A document utilized in accounting to calculate the financial performance of a business over a specific period, often presented in a Portable Document Format. This tool systematically organizes revenue, costs, and expenses to determine net income or loss. As an example, a business might use this type of record to assess its profitability for the fiscal year, providing a clear view of income generation versus expenditures.
The use of such a document provides several key benefits, including improved financial transparency, facilitation of informed decision-making, and streamlined tax preparation. Historically, these records were manually created; however, digital versions have become prevalent due to their efficiency and ease of distribution. The information contained within enables businesses to analyze trends, identify areas for cost reduction, and attract potential investors or secure loans.