FINRA Series 86 Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Guide for Research Analyst Test Prep

The duPont analysis is a specialized method used to assess a company's operational efficiency and profitability in relation to equity. This analytical framework breaks down the return on equity (ROE) into three key components: profit margin, asset turnover, and financial leverage. By examining these elements in detail, analysts can gain insights into how effectively a company is generating earnings from its sales (profit margin), how efficiently it uses its assets to generate sales (asset turnover), and how much leverage it is employing to amplify its returns (financial leverage).

This method allows for a comprehensive view of financial performance by linking operational results directly to shareholder returns, making it a valuable tool for investors and analysts who wish to understand the underlying drivers of a company's profitability in relation to the equity invested.

In contrast, market analysis typically focuses on assessing the market environment and competitive landscape rather than internal operational efficiencies. Financial statement analysis encompasses a broader evaluation of various financial documents, which may include profitability but does not specifically center on the detailed breakdown of ROE that duPont analysis provides. Risk assessment analysis focuses on identifying and evaluating potential risks that could affect the company's performance without directly linking these evaluations to operational efficiency or equity.