- Task A:
Recent high profile corporate collapses and misdemeanours have been attributed to laxities in
the regulatory framework of financial reporting. Predictably, some commentators and interest
groups have called for more regulation. However, financial reporting is arguably one of the most
heavily regulated areas of business activity.
Required
Critically discuss the arguments for and against the regulation of financial reporting. Cite
relevant academic literature to support your answer.
Marks will be awarded for presentation and coherence.
20 marks
Word limit: 2000 words
Task B:
In groups of four (4), you are to download the latest annual reports and accounts (and Interim
report, if applicable) of any two (2) of the following companies.
GlaxoSmithKline Plc year end 31 December 2012
Home Retail Group Plc year end 2 March 2013
Wm Morrison Supermarkets Plc year end 3 February 2013
Tesco Plc year end 23 February 2013
Kingfisher Plc year end 2 February 2013
Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc year end 31 December 2012
Your tutor must approve the membership of your group.
Required
Based on the *financial statements, industry statistics, information obtained from **peer
companies and other market and company information, prepare a comparative financial
statement analysis report for the two companies that you have selected.
Your report should include:
(a) An executive summary of the companies and their industries.
(b) A detailed comparative evaluation of the following:
(i) Return on equity
(ii) Cash generating ability, uses of cash and financial adaptability
(iii) Investor ratios
Your analysis should show inferences for each of the three areas mentioned above and must
take into account the viewpoints of all corporate stakeholders. Your report should be structured
with section headings, etc., and should be addressed to your supervisor (use your seminar
tutor’s name).
Marks will be awarded for report presentation and clarity.
20 marks
Word limit: 2000 words
