Mission Statement
Problems in financial analysis and accounting are inextricably linked. Equity analysis relies on sound financial reporting but also recognizes and adapts to poor accounting and reporting. Events of the past several years have caused many people to question the quality of financial reporting and equity analysis. The economic consequences of malpractice have been significant, leading to a clear call for reform.
Located in a leading business school with a mandate for independent research, CEASA is positioned to lead a discussion of issues with an emphasis on sound conceptual thinking and objectivity.
The mission of CEASA is to:
- Develop workable solutions to issues in financial reporting and accounting policy
- Produce a core set of principles for equity analysis
- Collect and synthesize best thinking and best practices
- Disseminate ideas to regulators, analysts, investors and management
- Promote and encourage sound research on relevant issues
An Independent Voice
An objective and independent research center, CEASA develops practical solutions for reflecting economic reality in accounting policy, financial reporting and fundamental security analysis.
Current players are too frequently perceived as compromised, whether correctly or not, with respect to their communication of financial data about their enterprises. An objective voice is needed to provide solutions to the most salient issues in accounting and security analysis. CEASA's founding mission is to fulfill this need.
Columbia Business School has a long history of leadership in this area because of both the faculty and the School's strong relationships in the business community. Morgan Stanley, IBM, and the General Electric Foundation are the lead underwriters in creating the Center for Excellence in Accounting and Security Analysis at Columbia Business School.