Peter Gratton, Ph.D., is a New Orleans-based editor and professor with over 20 years of experience in investing, risk management, and public policy. Peter began covering markets at Multex (Reuters) ...

Reading the financial statements of a business helps with evaluating financial strength and stability. The balance sheet shows the financial condition of the business at a specific point in time.

Accounting practices in the U.S. have improved over the years, but there are still plenty of ways that companies can manipulate their financial results. And not just in the usual ways--the balance ...

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Triad Hospitals Inc. Monday evening said it expects third-quarter results to be cut by 18 cents per share due to an increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts. The ...