Accounting statements in the investment strategies of retail investors

Abstract

Subject. The article investigates accounting (financial) statements as a source of information for retail investors, and tools to analyze and evaluate the investment attractiveness of a company as a way to reduce the risk of inefficient investment. Objectives. We focus on identification of the place and role of accounting in investment strategies of retail non-professional investors seeking to improve their financial situation by investing in the shares of Russian and foreign companies. Methods. The study draws on general scientific principles of cognition, including the analysis of statistical information, induction, synthesis, etc. Results. The paper presents the results of a survey of retail non-professional investors with experience in investment activities. The responses of respondents involved in the survey on the basis of an electronic platform are presented in a tabular form. We demonstrated the advantages and disadvantages of using various sources of information. The study revealed the key factors of investment attractiveness that retail investors take into account when choosing optimal investment objects. Conclusions. The most competent investors use the tools of accounting analysis and investment attractiveness assessment to build an effective long-term investment strategy. In addition to accounting statements, investors consider some non-financial parameters, like company reputation, brand awareness, ESG rating, etc.