Financial Modeler's Corner

Welcome to the Financial Modeler's Corner (FMC), where we discuss the art and science of financial modeling with your host Paul Barnhurst.Financial Modeler's Corner is sponsored by the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the most respected accreditation in Financial Modeling globally. https://www.abacum.ioIn today’s episode, Paul engages in a conversation with Geoff Robinson, to discuss the financial modeling world, blending technical skills with behavioral economics to enhance decision-making in finance.Geoff Robinson, founder of TheInvestmentAnalyst.com and seasoned financial modeler with a rich background in investment banking and education, notably as a former managing director at UBS.Key takeaways from this week's episode include:An unconventional entry into investment banking at 43, highlighting how the background in education enriches the approach to financial analysis and modeling, emphasizing the crossover skills between teaching and financial analysis. This highlights how teaching skills are transferable and beneficial in the financial analysis and modeling sectors.An anecdote about a significant error in a financial model, which failed to detect a $29 billion discrepancy, underscoring the critical importance of rigorous validation and diagnostic checks in financial modeling.In the role of behavioral factors in financial modeling, adopting a stance of professional skepticism and the need for understanding and questioning the assumptions underlying a model before trusting its output.For simplicity and planning in financial modeling, the most effective models are those that are straightforward, well-planned, and can communicate complex financial insights in an accessible manner.Strategies for mitigating bias, such as incorporating different perspectives and rigorous testing of hypotheses, as the influence of cognitive biases on financial modeling to enhance the reliability of financial models.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode on financial analysis and modeling:"The diagnostic on this model was said if total assets equal total liabilities and equity, okay. So no matter what happened, your balance sheet, even if it was mashed up, the diagnostics said it was fine and when you went into the detail, there was a $29 billion hole in that balance sheet.""Financial models are a real kind of insight and window into the personality of the modeler. You can see how they think, you can see how they overcomplicate things. You can see if they're sloppy."“Models are question-asking tools. One of your questions was is it a primary decision maker, a financial model? I don't think models are decision-makers. I think models are the way you test a hypothesis.”"I suppose the blunt thing to say is don't trust anything until you understand it."Follow Geoff:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/geofftheinvestmentanalystWebsite - https://theinvestmentanalyst.comFollow Paul:Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor an experienced-based approach to financial modeling, emphasizing skepticism, the effective communication of complex financial data, and the intersection of analytical rigor, educational techniques, and behavioral economics, visit FMI at www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use code ‘Podcast’ to save 15% when you register. Contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today’s episode:(01:58) Introduction(02:44) Guest Introduction(03:00) Horrifying Financial Models(04:01) Joking on Big Numbers(04:24) Approach to Financial Modeling(05:14) Behavioral Insights in Modeling(05:56) Best Practices and Lessons Learned(42:40) Rapid-Fire Question Round(47.09) Guest's advice for aspiring financial modelers(47.38) Contact information to learn more about various modeling techniques and tools

Welcome to the Financial Modeler's Corner (FMC), where we discuss the art and science of financial modeling with your host Paul Barnhurst. Financial Modeler's Corner is sponsored by the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the most respected accreditation in Financial Modeling globally.In today’s episode, Paul engages in a conversation with Scott Rostan, Founder of Training The Street.Scott found his passion for finance with his dedication to teaching and has been driving innovation in financial training ever since. As CEO of Training The Street and as an adjunct professor at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, he inspires the next generation of finance professionalsThrough his leadership as CEO of Training The Street, Scott has reshaped the landscape of financial education, equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive.In this episode, expect to learn:The significance of technical skills, such as financial modeling, accounting, and Excel proficiency, in the finance industryHow specialized training programs can help individuals enhance their financial knowledge and technical abilitiesThe evolving role of AI in finance and how it complements human expertise rather than replacing itThe balance between technical proficiency and interpersonal skills to excel in their careersHow individuals can build trust with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders, ultimately contributing to the integrity and credibility of the finance profession.Quotes:  “It's really easy to start throwing stuff together and writing a nasty old nested if formula or whatever it might be, but that doesn't always mean it's clean or effective or meets those requirements we talk about.”“And when you get good with the prompt engineering typing, questions, and answers, you can get a lot more productive and faster.”“It's not ideal because circular references can make your model more complex and harder to understand, but in certain situations, they're necessary for accuracy.”“If you just blindly took the financial information from this database, it could be off by a big factor. So again understanding what's going on, understanding the nuance, understanding the limitations is going to be much more valuable.”“They're going to trust you and value you to distill what's important and then present it in an easy-to-digest way so that they can understand in simple terms what is happening. The analysis comes from the model, but the story is going to come from you.”Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation or FMI Fundamentals Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use code Podcast to save 15% when you register.  Go to https://earmarkcpe.com, download the app, take the quiz and you can receive CPE credit.  Follow Scott:    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-rostan-86b44417aWebsite - https://trainingthestreet.com/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy/  TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thefpandaguy  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984   In today’s episode:  [00:45] Introduction;[01:00] Scott’s horror story of the worst Financial Model;[01:58] The KISS principle;[03:53] Scott’s background;[05:56] Key projects that helped Scott;[19:17] Training the Street courses;[21:02] How is AI changing modeling;[28:59] Skills required for a great modeler;[42:50] Scott’s favorite Excel shortcut;[44:18] Rapid fire;[48:55] Scptt’s final piece of advice;

Blockchain & Tokenomics advisor Roderick McKinley discusses challenges like token volatility, incentive alignment, and strategic guidance for blockchain projects. He offers insights on developing tokenized business models, designing token utilities, and structuring successful capital raises. Learn about the integration of finance and blockchain, transitioning from traditional finance to crypto, and practical tips for navigating complexities in the crypto space.

Welcome to the Financial Modeler's Corner (FMC), where we discuss the art and science of financial modeling with your host Paul Barnhurst. Financial Modeler's Corner is sponsored by the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the most respected accreditation in Financial Modeling globally.In this episode, Paul is joined by Ian Bennett, Partner, Deals Modelling team at PwC, Australia.With over 20 years of experience as a professional financial modeler, Ian has constructed and assessed models critical for major transactions, infrastructure projects, and routine forecasting and reporting. Today Ian leads the deal modeling practice for Pwc Australia.In addition to being a world-class Modeller Ian is incredibly dedicated to diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing (DI&W). This has propelled him through various positions within PwC and beyond. As a proud LGBTIQ+ ally, he serves on the Steering Committee of Shine@PwC, the firm's LGBTIQ+ employee network, and currently holds the role of wellbeing lead for the Financial Advisory business.In this episode, expect to learn:Why understanding the stakeholders involved in a project is vitalWhy it's essential to listen actively to clients, understand their needs, and ask the right questionsHow to analyze the success and effectiveness of the financial modeling processWhat are the tools and technologies available in the marketWhat are the new technologies and methodologies for financial modelers to stay effective and successful in their rolesQuotes: “You need a desire to understand the power of the things you have in front of you and not be scared.”“Every model tells a story, and that story is known at the start of the project, and the questions that the model will be able to answer.”“Models are built for a single primary purpose at the time that they are conceived’Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation or FMI Fundamentals Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use code Podcast to save 15% when you register.Go to https://earmarkcpe.com, download the app, take the quiz and you can receive CPE credit.Follow Ian Bennett: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianrbennettWebsite: https://www.pwc.com.au/deals/modelling.htmlFollow Paul:Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376Follow Financial Modeler's CornerLinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984In today’s episode:00:20: Introduction01:10: Problem that bettered Ian03:00: Ian’s insights on financial models05:18: Ian’s story07:13: What is MFM and why did Ian pursue it?08:35: Ian’s experience in the Global Excel Summit10:49 Why Ian is passionate about financial modeling11:52: Ian’s favorite industry that he likes to model13:13: What makes a good financial modeler?16:49: Things beyond the model that help in a project?22:05: Approach and methodology 27:00: Tools beyond Excel34:40: Technical nugget when building new models36:50:  Rapid fire 39:08: Ian’s favorite function45:00: Ian’s advice to become a better financial modeler45:36: Wrap up

Derek Baker shares insights on building robust SaaS models, the challenges faced in financial modeling, importance of business understanding, controversial modeling issues, and the evolution of Excel functionalities. He emphasizes the significance of continuous practice to improve modeling skills and the importance of business acumen for financial modelers.

Lance Rubin shares insights on financial modeling, AI, and Power BI. He discusses the importance of Excel hygiene, avoiding hard-coding, and the HAC framework for finance transformation. He also talks about impactful social projects, embracing AI in modeling, and challenges in transitioning to new technologies.

Listen to competitors share why learning Excel is crucial for career success. Andrew Ngai reflects on his hobby turning into a competition at the HyperX arena in Vegas. Students discuss their favorite Excel formulas and the benefits of financial modeling. Get 15% off Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation with code 'Podcast' at fminstitute.com/podcast

Excel MVPs share their experiences at the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge. The importance of data cleaning and organization is discussed. Financial modeling skills and contestant introductions are highlighted. Benjamin Weber shares his experience and excitement for upcoming competitions. Excel's role as a foundational tool for data analysis is emphasized. The new features in Excel, such as lambdas and dynamic arrays, are explored and their benefits in financial modeling explained.

Sam Sivarajan, a Speaker, Wealth Management Consultant, and Behavioral Scientist, discusses his experience in telecom, advice on balancing art and science in modeling, making smart assumptions, critical thinking in modeling, and controversial modeling issues. He also shares insights from his books and emphasizes the importance of decision-making and validating assumptions in financial modeling.

Welcome to Financial Modeler's Corner (FMC) where we discuss the art and science of financial modeling with your host Paul Barnhurst. Financial Modeler's Corner is sponsored by Financial Modeling Institute (FMI) the most respected accreditations in Financial Modeling globally.   In this LinkedIn Live, Paul Barnhurst is joined by three amazing Modelers, Dave Hallwood, Giles Male and Rafa ë l Le Saux.   Dave is the Group Finance Director at Aldrich Group Ltd . He is a Chartered Certified Accountant, Commercially minded with a background in Accounting and Business in SMEs Dave took the AFM last year and the CFM this year. Giles Male is a co-founder of Full Stack Modeler - an award-winning training program and community for Modelers at every level, with an opportunity to gain Full Stack Modeler accreditation. He will also be taking on a limited number of coaching clients in 2024. Giles took his AFM 2 years ago and is awaiting the result of CFM. Rafaël Le Saux is a Director and Valuation & Modeling Advisory Lead at PwC Luxembourg / LVPA Board Member. He is passionate about Valuation and Modeling disciplines and has piloted his professional path toward amassing sufficient knowledge to support clients in solving complex valuation problems across different asset classes, industries, and geographies.   Listen to this episode as the guests talk about: Their experiences in Modeling. The value of Financial Modeling Accreditation.How to improve your Financial Modeling skillsTheir position on controversial modeling issues, including circular references, dynamic arrays, modeling standards, AI in modeling, and more. Quotes:    “this job is about people, it's about talking to people, it's about giving them information instead of data”   “One of the really good things about FMI is if you have got both AFM and CFM on your CV, that’s the level of credibility that reflects what you are doing.”   "Simple is hard, complex is easy"  Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation or FMI Fundamentals Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use code Podcast to save 15% when you register.   Go to https://earmarkcpe.com , download the app, take the quiz and you can receive CPE credit.    Follow Dave:     LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hallwood-fcca-87270449/ Follow Giles:     LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/Apply to get Coached - https://fullstackmodeller.typeform.com/to/RezB1GRA Follow Rafaël: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-le-saux/   Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thefpandaguy Twitter - https://twitter.com/TheFPandAGuy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376    Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true   Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984    In today’s episode:   (00:22) Intro; (00:46) Background of the guests - Dave, Giles, Rapha ë l; (02:36) How did they become interested in building Financial Models?; (06:40) Rapid Fire; (14:55) What led these guys to take the FMI?; (21:45) Why are they a fan of Financial Modeling World Cup?; (23:36) How FMI helped them professionally?; (24:45 - 25:30) Validate your Financial Modeling Skills with FMI’s Accreditation Program (ad); (27:18) What makes FMI unique?; (37:36) When must someone take AFM and CFM?; (41:03) FMI as a part of regular Graduation; (46:08) Advice on being a better Financial Modeler; (49:26) Connect with Dave, Giles and Rapha ë l ; (50:40) Outro