DCF Analysis: Evaluating Management Forecasts and Scenario Planning Techniques
Evaluate forecasts with confidence by leveraging qualitative and quantitative techniques. Explore sensitivity and scenario analysis, plus common discounted cash flow (DCF) errors to avoid.
Format
Webcast
Date
Mar 31, 2026
NASBA Field of Study
Specialized Knowledge
Level
Basic
CPE Credits
1.5
Instructor
Ross McSwain, Bethany Hearn
Availability
3 months
Product Number
WC5211842
Join our webcast for practical, decision‑ready tools to assess the credibility of management‑prepared forecasts and refine them for use in the discounted cash flow (DCF) method.
Valuation professionals devote a lot of time to determining the appropriate discount rate, but far less time is devoted to spotlighting the cash flow projections that drive value. That's where the often‑overlooked skill of forecast evaluation comes into play.
Applying real‑world DCF techniques
This webcast will provide a brief review of DCF fundamentals, then shift to qualitative and quantitative methods for evaluating management forecasts. Learn how to:
- Identify red flags
- Reconcile inconsistencies
- Adjust projections when assumptions appear unsupported or unreasonably optimistic
Enhancing insight through scenario planning
When management forecasts seem unrealistic, sensitivity and scenario analysis can reveal how changes in key assumptions affect value.
The session demonstrates how to apply these techniques to:
- Uncover critical value drivers
- Understand uncertainty
- Strengthen valuation conclusions
Avoiding common valuation pitfalls
To strengthen the reliability of your analyses, the webcast highlights common errors encountered in DCF applications and provides practical strategies to avoid them.
You will leave with an enhanced ability to:
- Evaluate forecasts
- Correct unrealistic assumptions
- Produce robust, well‑supported DCF valuations
Key Topics
- Assessing management's prospective financial information (forecasts)
- Using sensitivity and scenario analysis to address uncertainty
- Best practices for the application of the DCF method related to the forecast
Learning Outcomes
- Recall basic DCF theory.
- Identify issues with forecasts and assumptions provided by management using qualitative and quantitative analysis.
- Recognize the benefits of sensitivity and scenario analysis.
- Identify common errors in application and how to avoid them.
Who Will Benefit
Valuation professionals who use the income approach with clients who often have limited financial expertise.
Group ordering for your team
2 to 5 registrants
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