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Also known as: pro forma financials, projected financials

Pro Forma

TechnicalDocumentsFinance

Definition

Pro Forma: Pro forma financials are projected or hypothetical financial statements showing expected future performance or the effect of proposed transactions. Used in fundraising, M&A, and planning, pro forma statements help stakeholders understand future financial impact. They're always based on assumptions that should be clearly stated.

Example Usage

β€œWe showed pro forma financials assuming the acquisition closes. The combined entity reaches profitability 18 months earlier than standalone.”

Common Misconceptions

Pro forma equals actual. Pro forma are projections based on assumptions; actual results will differ.
Pro forma only for fundraising. Useful for any forward-looking analysis: M&A, new products, or major initiatives.
Complex models are more credible. Clearly stated assumptions matter more than spreadsheet complexity.

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