What is Income Statement?
An income statement is a financial report that summarizes a company’s revenues, expenses, and profits over a specific accounting period. It shows how well a business performs financially and helps stakeholders evaluate profitability.
Definition
An income statement is a financial document that reports a company’s financial performance by detailing income, expenses, and net profit or loss during a defined period.
Key Takeaways
- Shows revenues, expenses, and profit for a period.
- Helps assess financial health and operational efficiency.
- Used by investors, managers, and regulators.
Understanding Income Statement
The income statement—also known as the profit and loss statement (P&L)—is one of the three core financial statements, alongside the balance sheet and cash flow statement. It highlights a business’s ability to generate revenue, manage costs, and operate efficiently.
Income statements typically include operating revenue, cost of goods sold (COGS), operating expenses, interest expenses, tax obligations, and net income.
Managers use income statements to make decisions about cost control and pricing, while investors use them to assess return potential and operational strength.
Formula
Net Income = Revenue – Expenses
Where:
- Revenue: Money earned from operations.
- Expenses: Costs associated with generating revenue.
Real-World Example
In its 2023 quarterly results, Apple reported strong revenue growth driven by its services division, which contributed significantly to its income statement performance.
Importance in Business or Economics
Income statements help businesses understand profitability, track performance trends, and comply with financial reporting requirements. They are essential for investment decisions, budgeting, and evaluating business models.
Related Terms
- Balance Sheet
- Cash Flow Statement
- Gross Profit
Sources and Further Reading
Quick Reference
- Purpose: Measure profitability.
- Key Metric: Net income.
- Use Case: Performance tracking and decision-making.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is an income statement important?
It shows whether the business is making a profit or loss and helps guide financial decisions.
How often is it prepared?
Most businesses prepare income statements monthly, quarterly, or annually.
What is the difference between revenue and net income?
Revenue is the total earnings; net income is what remains after all expenses.
