Book excerpt: Sound investment decisions require an in-depth knowledge of the financial markets and available financial instruments. This book provides students and professionals with an understanding of the role and activities of an equity security analyst within the investment process. Emphasis is on understanding the process of analyzing companies; the valuation process; and the challenges of achieving success in a highly competitive capital market. The authors present a comprehensive compendium on the financial theory, the empirical evidence and the mathematical tools that form the underlying principles of investment decisions.