What is Financial Modelling? A Complete Beginner’s Guide
If you are curious about what is financial modelling and how a financial modelling course can shape your career, you are in the right place. In today’s corporate and finance-driven world, every decision – from investing in startups to acquiring billion-dollar companies – is backed by models that project numbers into the future. By learning how to build and analyze financial models, beginners and professionals alike can make smarter business and investment decisions. This blog will give you a complete beginner’s guide to financial modelling, explain its importance, outline the types of financial models, and even connect how these models are used in business valuation, DCF analysis, and M&A models. Whether you want to learn financial modelling online or through a structured classroom program, this guide will prepare you for your journey. Introduction to Financial Modelling Before diving deep, let us clearly define financial modelling. In simple terms, financial modelling is the process of creating a mathematical representation of a real-world financial situation. It is usually done in Excel or advanced tools, where inputs like revenue, costs, investments, and financing are linked together to project financial performance. Think of a financial model as a decision-making tool if you change one variable, you can immediately see how it affects profits, cash flows, or valuations. That’s why investment bankers, equity analysts, corporate finance professionals, and even entrepreneurs rely heavily on it. Transitioning from theory to practice, the models you build are not just numbers. They are stories about businesses, expressed in financial terms. Why is Financial Modelling Important? The importance of financial modelling cannot be overstated. Companies and investors depend on it for Business Valuation Determining the worth of a company through models like DCF (Discounted Cash Flow). Investment Decisions Evaluating whether to invest in stocks, bonds, or startups. Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A Models) Analyzing whether acquiring another company will be profitable. Budgeting & Forecasting Helping management plan ahead. Risk Management Testing scenarios such as downturns or interest rate hikes. For beginners, this highlights why learning financial modelling online or through a structured program is not just about Excel skills but about understanding how businesses work. Types of Financial Models There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on the situation, professionals use different models. Some common types of financial models include 1. Three-Statement Model This is the foundation of financial modelling. It connects the Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement into one dynamic model. 2. Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Model DCF is one of the most powerful valuation tools. By projecting free cash flows and discounting them back at a cost of capital, you estimate the company’s intrinsic value. 3. Merger & Acquisition (M&A) Model This model evaluates whether acquiring a target company will create or destroy shareholder value. 4. Leveraged Buyout (LBO) Model Used by private equity firms, it assesses if a company can be bought with mostly debt and sold later for profit. 5. IPO Model When companies go public, analysts prepare IPO models to forecast valuations and issue prices. 6. Budgeting and Forecasting Models Companies rely on these to track expenses and revenues against plans. Transition words like firstly, secondly, moreover, and finally are often used here because each model builds upon the other in practice. Skills Required for Financial Modelling To master financial modelling, you need both technical and analytical skills. While this blog focuses on the beginner’s guide, you can check our detailed write-up on Skills Required for Financial Modelling. Some must-have skills include: Excel Proficiency Accounting and Finance Knowledge Analytical Thinking Attention to Detail Understanding Valuation Techniques Financial Modelling for Beginners – Step by Step Here’s a roadmap if you are just starting Learn Accounting Basics – Understand how financial statements connect. Master Excel Shortcuts – Speed is critical for modelling. Understand Valuation Techniques – DCF, comparables, precedent transactions. Build a Simple Three-Statement Model – Link statements correctly. Move to Complex Models – Such as M&A or LBO. Practice Case Studies – Use real companies to test your skills. Get Feedback and Refine – Join communities or take professional training. Common Mistakes Beginners Make Even though financial modelling is powerful, beginners often make mistakes such as Overcomplicating models with unnecessary details. Ignoring accounting integrity (statements not balancing). Not testing scenarios. Relying only on templates without understanding logic. By avoiding these, you will become more confident Applications of Financial Modelling in the Real World Let’s make this practical. Financial modelling is not limited to investment banks. It is widely used across industries Startups To raise funding from investors. Corporates For budgeting and capital allocation. Banks To assess loan viability. Investors For portfolio analysis. Governments For infrastructure projects. How to Learn Financial Modelling Online? The most convenient way today is through financial modelling courses online. At RBei Classes, we have designed a job-oriented financial modelling and investment banking course where students learn step by step, from basics to advanced case studies. You can start learning at your own pace, build live models, and get guidance from mentors who have worked in investment banking. If you’re curious, check out our Financial Modelling Course Page → https://rbeiset.com/financial-modelling. Financial Modelling vs Investment Banking Many students confuse the two. Financial modelling is a skill, while investment banking is a career field where financial models are applied daily. If you want to see how financial modelling connects to the world of banking, you should read our What is Investment Banking?. Future of Financial Modelling With AI and automation, the tools might change, but the fundamentals of modelling will remain the same. Financial decisions will always require human judgment supported by robust models. That is why building this skill today ensures long-term career growth. Conclusion To summarize, financial modelling is the art and science of representing a company’s future in numbers. By learning it, you not only improve your career prospects but also gain a skill that is highly valued across industries. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or an entrepreneur, the right financial modelling course can make you job-ready
Top 10 Skills Required to Master Financial Modelling
Financial Modelling has become one of the most in-demand skills in finance, investment banking, equity research, and corporate strategy. To succeed, you need to develop the skills required for financial modelling that go beyond just Excel formulas. In fact, mastering financial modelling skills means combining technical expertise, accounting knowledge, valuation techniques, and the ability to present complex data in a simplified manner. Without these skills, your model may look correct on the surface but fail to provide accurate insights for decision-making. In this blog, we will dive deep into the top 10 skills required for financial modelling. By the end, you will know exactly what to learn, how to build these skills, and why they matter in real-world finance roles. If you’re a beginner, you should first read our What is Financial Modelling? Beginner’s Guide to understand the basics before jumping into advanced skills. Why Learning Financial Modelling Skills is Essential Before we explore the top skills, it’s important to understand why financial modelling skills are critical in today’s world. Businesses are constantly making decisions about investments, mergers, acquisitions, new projects, and risk management. Each decision requires a forecast, an evaluation, and a clear financial projection. That’s where financial modelling comes in. A banker uses models to advise on IPO pricing. A CFO uses models to assess capital structure and funding. An equity analyst uses models to recommend buy, hold, or sell decisions. A consultant uses models to suggest strategic shifts to clients. Therefore, learning these skills required for financial modelling is not just for students or freshers; they are equally important for professionals already working in finance. Top 10 Skills Required for Financial Modelling Let’s now break down the essential financial modelling skills one by one, with practical examples and applications. 1. Excel Skills for Financial Modelling When people think of financial modelling, Excel for financial modelling is the first thing that comes to mind. Excel is the backbone of every model. While basic formulas like SUM or AVERAGE are helpful, advanced Excel skills take you to the next level. What You Need to Learn: Keyboard shortcuts for speed. Functions like VLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, IFERROR. Logical formulas for scenario building. Data validation and conditional formatting. Pivot tables for dynamic analysis. Example: If you are projecting revenue growth for 5 years, Excel helps you create scenarios like best case, base case, and worst case, all within a single model. Without Excel for financial modelling, you cannot build error-free, flexible, and professional models. 2. Strong Accounting Knowledge Accounting is the language of business. If you don’t understand accounting principles, your financial model will lack credibility. In fact, one of the most important skills required for financial modelling is knowing how financial statements interact. What You Need to Learn: Structure of Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement. Double-entry principles. Deferred taxes, depreciation methods, and working capital. Linking all three statements into one integrated model. Example: If you increase capital expenditure in your model, you must know how it impacts depreciation (income statement), fixed assets (balance sheet), and cash outflows (cash flow statement). 3. Valuation Skills A big part of financial modelling is estimating what a company is worth. Valuation skills help you apply different methods depending on the industry and purpose. What You Need to Learn: Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Valuation. Comparable Company Analysis. Precedent Transaction Analysis. Leveraged Buyout (LBO) models. Example: In M&A deals, a banker may build a DCF model to estimate the intrinsic value of the company, and then compare it with market multiples. This makes valuation skills one of the most critical aspects of financial modelling. 4. Problem-Solving in Finance Financial modelling is not just about numbers; it’s about solving real-world business problems. Employers look for candidates who can analyze a situation, build assumptions, and use financial models to provide solutions. What You Need to Develop: Ability to question assumptions. Critical thinking for scenario analysis. Creativity in structuring data. Example: A company facing declining margins may want to know whether to cut costs, raise prices, or diversify. Your model should help solve this by quantifying the impact of each choice. 5. Attention to Detail A small mistake in financial modelling can cost millions. That’s why attention to detail is a must-have skill. Models often involve hundreds of rows, multiple sheets, and linked formulas. A single error can spread throughout. Example: Accidentally linking revenue growth to the wrong cell can misrepresent the entire company valuation. To avoid this, always cross-check formulas, reconcile balances, and use error checks. 6. Scenario and Sensitivity Analysis Markets are uncertain. That’s why financial models must account for different situations. Scenario analysis and sensitivity analysis allow you to test assumptions and see how results change. What You Need to Learn: Data Tables for sensitivity analysis. Building “Best Case, Base Case, Worst Case” scenarios. Tornado diagrams for visualization. Example: A DCF valuation can show a company worth ₹500 crores at 10% WACC, but if the WACC changes to 12%, the value may fall sharply. Sensitivity analysis highlights this risk. 7. Presentation Skills A great financial model is useless if you cannot explain it. Presentation skills ensure you can communicate your findings to non-finance people. What You Need to Learn: Designing clear charts and graphs. Using PowerPoint for financial storytelling. Writing concise executive summaries. Example: A CEO may not look at your entire Excel sheet. But a one-slide summary with key insights and recommendations can drive decisions. 8. Business and Industry Knowledge Numbers don’t exist in isolation. You must understand the industry before making assumptions. Strong business acumen is one of the hidden but powerful skills required for financial modelling. What You Need to Focus On: Industry-specific drivers (e.g., same-store sales for retail, occupancy rates for hotels). Economic factors like inflation, interest rates, and currency risks. Company strategies and market competition. Example: A retail model should not assume the same growth rate as a tech startup. Context matters. 9. Communication and Storytelling Models are technical, but finance is about people. You must communicate assumptions, risks,
Financial Modelling vs CFA: Which is Better for Your Career?
When students step into the world of finance, one question often dominates their mind: Financial Modelling vs CFA, which is better for my career? Both Financial Modelling and CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) are highly respected pathways, but they serve different purposes. If you want to understand which option fits your goals, you must compare CFA vs Financial Modelling not just in terms of course structure, but also in terms of career opportunities, industry relevance, and long-term growth. At RBei Classes, widely recognized as the best coaching classes for Financial Modelling and Investment Banking courses, we guide students through this exact confusion every single day. In this blog, we will break down the differences between CFA and Financial Modelling, explain their scope, highlight their relevance in India and abroad, and help you decide the right career path. Understanding Financial Modelling vs CFA Before comparing CFA vs Financial Modelling, you must understand what each path actually means. CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst): This is a globally recognized professional qualification focused on investment management, equity research, portfolio management, and corporate finance. The CFA course is theory-driven, rigorous, and requires students to clear three levels. It is ideal for those aiming to build a career in asset management, equity research, or corporate finance. Financial Modelling: This is a practical skill that involves building models in Excel (or other tools) to evaluate businesses, forecast financial performance, analyze investments, and make corporate finance decisions. Financial Modelling is not a degree or certification by itself; instead, it is a job-ready skill that is highly valued in investment banking, private equity, consulting, and corporate finance. Thus, Financial Modelling vs CFA is essentially a comparison of practical skills vs professional qualification. Both have strong advantages, but their career impact depends on your goals. Scope of Financial Modelling in India When considering CFA vs Financial Modelling, you must also look at industry demand. In India, the scope of Financial Modelling has expanded rapidly because companies are relying on data-driven decision-making. Financial Modelling is no longer limited to investment bankers; it is now widely used in: Equity Research: Analysts create valuation models for listed companies. Corporate Finance Teams: Professionals prepare budgeting and forecasting models. Startups & Venture Capital: Entrepreneurs and investors rely on models to evaluate funding rounds. Consulting & Strategy Firms: Models are used to assess M&A and restructuring. The benefit of Financial Modelling is that it offers immediate job readiness. Unlike CFA, which takes years to complete, Financial Modelling can be mastered in a few months, especially with guidance from expert-led platforms like RBei Classes. Career in CFA – A Global Qualification On the other hand, if you pursue a career in CFA, you are choosing a globally respected designation. CFA is highly valued in: Asset Management Firms: To manage investment portfolios. Hedge Funds and Private Equity: To perform deep valuation analysis. Equity Research Houses: To publish industry and company-specific research reports. Corporate Finance Roles: Especially in multinational companies with global operations. However, CFA is not an easy journey. It requires 3-4 years of dedication, clearing three levels, and gaining relevant work experience. That said, once you become a CFA charterholder, it opens doors to international opportunities, something Financial Modelling alone may not achieve. CFA vs Financial Modelling – Which One Should You Choose? The big question: Financial Modelling vs CFA – which is better? The answer lies in your career stage and professional goals. If you are a fresher or college student: Start with Financial Modelling to gain practical, job-ready skills. This will help you secure internships and entry-level roles in finance. Later, you can pursue CFA for deeper theoretical knowledge. If you are a working professional in finance: Adding Financial Modelling to your skill set will make you efficient in real-world projects. If you aspire for leadership or global recognition, combine it with CFA. If you want international mobility: CFA is the right choice since it is globally accepted. Financial Modelling complements it, but CFA is the recognized qualification worldwide. If you are aiming for Investment Banking: Both are useful, but recruiters expect Financial Modelling skills first. Once you establish yourself, CFA can add credibility. (You can also read our detailed blog on How to Become an Investment Banker for a clear roadmap.) In short, it is not about Financial Modelling vs CFA as rivals, but about understanding how they complement each other. CFA Course vs Practical Skills – The Real Difference A key aspect of CFA vs Financial Modelling is the nature of learning: CFA is a structured, exam-driven course. It builds strong conceptual understanding of finance, ethics, and investment principles. Financial Modelling is a hands-on skill. You learn by building valuation models, running sensitivity analysis, and projecting cash flows. Many students at RBei Classes start with Financial Modelling and later pursue CFA. This combination works best because you gain practical job skills first and then add the prestige of a CFA qualification. Salary Comparison – CFA vs Financial Modelling Another factor in choosing Financial Modelling vs CFA is salary potential. Financial Modelling: Freshers can expect ₹6–10 LPA in investment banking or equity research roles. With experience, this can go up to ₹25–30 LPA in India. CFA: After clearing Level 3 and gaining experience, professionals can earn anywhere between ₹12–40 LPA in India, with even higher potential abroad. This shows that both CFA and Financial Modelling have strong earning potential, but CFA has the edge in international markets. Combining Financial Modelling and CFA for Maximum Impact Rather than choosing CFA vs Financial Modelling as a strict either-or, many successful professionals combine both. The CFA qualification gives credibility, while Financial Modelling provides job readiness. Together, they make you highly competitive in finance careers. For instance, an equity research analyst who knows Financial Modelling can prepare detailed valuation models, while CFA knowledge allows them to interpret market trends and apply ethical principles. This dual strength makes you stand out in the industry. Why Choose RBei Classes for Financial Modelling and Investment Banking? If you are confused about Financial
What is Investment Banking? Everything You Need to Know
Investment Banking is one of the most prestigious and rewarding career paths in finance. If you are exploring a career in investment banking, then understanding what this field is, what roles investment bankers play, and how you can break into it is essential. Today, many students and professionals want to pursue an Investment Banking Course because it not only opens doors to high-paying opportunities but also helps them develop skills in valuation, mergers and acquisitions, equity research, and financial modelling. At RBei Classes, we provide the best coaching classes for financial modelling and investment banking course, guiding students step by step to achieve their career goals. In this blog, you will get a complete beginner-to-advanced guide on investment banking—from its meaning, role, services, and career scope, to how you can prepare and land your dream job in investment banking in India. By the end, you will have everything you need in one place to start your journey confidently. What is Investment Banking? At its core, investment banking is the division of banking that helps large corporations, governments, and institutions raise capital, execute mergers and acquisitions (M&A), manage risks, and provide advisory services. Unlike commercial banks, which deal with savings accounts and loans for individuals, investment banks focus on big-ticket financial transactions. Investment banks act as intermediaries between companies that need funds and investors who want to deploy capital. This requires deep expertise in equity research, valuation, and financial modelling, which is why pursuing an investment banking course is often the first step for aspiring professionals. Some of the most well-known global investment banks include Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, Barclays, and Credit Suisse. In India, firms like Kotak Investment Banking, ICICI Securities, and Axis Capital play a crucial role in shaping the corporate finance landscape. Why Choose a Career in Investment Banking? A career in investment banking is considered one of the most lucrative in the finance world. But beyond the attractive paychecks, this career offers: Exposure to Global Deals: Investment bankers work on billion-dollar mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs. Skill Development: The role demands expertise in valuation, financial modelling, and risk assessment. Networking Opportunities: You work closely with top executives, investors, and policymakers. Fast Growth: Clear progression from Analyst → Associate → Vice President → Director → Managing Director. However, breaking into this field is challenging because it demands not just technical skills but also strong communication, problem-solving, and analytical abilities. That’s where a structured investment banking course from trusted institutions like RBei Classes comes in, bridging the gap between academics and industry practice. Role of an Investment Banker The role of an investment banker varies depending on the division they work in. Broadly, their responsibilities include: Capital Raising – Helping companies issue stocks and bonds to raise money. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) – Advising clients on buying, selling, or merging businesses. Equity Research – Providing insights on market trends, stock valuations, and investment strategies. Restructuring – Assisting distressed companies in reorganizing their finances. Advisory Services – Guiding firms on strategic financial decisions. Each function requires in-depth knowledge of financial models, market dynamics, and negotiation skills. This is why practical learning is crucial, and why our financial modelling and investment banking course focuses on hands-on training. Front Office, Middle Office, and Back Office in Investment Banking An investment bank is divided into three major parts: Front Office – The client-facing division that handles M&A, capital raising, trading, and equity research. This is where most investment bankers work. Middle Office – Risk management, compliance, and technology support ensuring transactions comply with regulations. Back Office – Operations, settlements, and administrative functions. Aspirants targeting a career in investment banking usually aim for front-office roles because they directly impact revenue and involve high-level client interaction. Types of Services Offered by Investment Banks Investment banks offer a wide range of services: Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Advisory Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) Debt and Equity Financing Private Equity & Venture Capital Deals Equity Research and Analysis Restructuring and Risk Management These services form the backbone of corporate finance and global capital markets, making investment banking a critical driver of the economy. Jobs in Investment Banking in India If you are planning for a job in investment banking in India, you will find immense opportunities in top financial hubs like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi. With India’s growing economy, demand for skilled investment bankers has increased across domestic and international firms. Some common job roles include: Analyst (entry-level, focused on financial modelling and research) Associate (client-facing, project execution) Vice President (managing teams, client relationships) Director / MD (deal origination, strategy, and leadership) Salaries in India range from ₹10–20 LPA for freshers to ₹50 LPA+ for experienced professionals in top banks. How to Build a Career in Investment Banking? To build a successful career in investment banking, you need: Educational Background – Degrees in finance, economics, accounting, or engineering. Specialized Training – A structured investment banking course covering financial modelling, valuation, and M&A. Practical Skills – Hands-on exposure to Excel, pitch books, and case studies. Internships – Real-world experience in banks or financial firms. Certifications – CFA, FRM, or RBei’s Financial Modelling and Investment Banking course for added credibility. Why RBei Classes is the Best Coaching Institute for Investment Banking and Financial Modelling At RBei Classes, we believe in practical learning over theory. Our students work on live projects, case studies, and financial models that simulate real-world investment banking tasks. This is why RBei is recognized as the best coaching classes for financial modelling and investment banking course. Expert Faculty: Trainers with global investment banking experience. Structured Curriculum: Covers valuation, M&A, DCF, LBO, and equity research. Placement Support: Guidance for internships and job interviews. Flexible Learning: Online and classroom formats available. Whether you are a fresher or a working professional, our program ensures you are industry-ready. Skills You Learn in an Investment Banking Course An investment banking course equips you with: Advanced Excel & Financial Modelling Company Valuation (DCF, Comparable, Precedent Transactions) M&A Deal Structuring IPO Process &
Financial Modelling Case Studies: Real-World Examples You Must Learn
Financial Modelling Case Studies are one of the most powerful ways to master Practical Financial Modelling. At RBei Classes, known as the best coaching classes for Financial Modelling and Investment Banking course, we believe that theory alone is never enough. Instead, students must dive deep into real-world financial modelling, learn how businesses are valued, and understand how industry professionals apply models such as M&A Models, DCF Models, and Equity Valuation Models in actual scenarios. This blog will walk you through detailed financial modelling case studies, ensuring you not only learn concepts but also apply them practically in your career. Whether you are preparing for investment banking, equity research, or corporate finance, mastering these practical case studies is a must. Moreover, by the end of this blog, you will clearly understand how to approach real-world financial modelling and why RBei Classes has been trusted by thousands of learners globally. Why Financial Modelling Case Studies Are Essential Transitioning from classroom learning to real-world application often feels overwhelming. Many students learn formulas and Excel shortcuts, yet struggle to apply them in live corporate finance situations. That’s where financial modelling case studies bridge the gap. Case studies replicate real-life corporate transactions, valuation methods, and financial decisions. With them, you: Understand how companies are valued. Learn to build M&A deal structures. Gain insights into forecasting revenues, costs, and profitability. Apply DCF Models and Equity Valuation Models in real market scenarios. Develop confidence in interpreting and presenting financial results. In short, practical financial modelling case studies transform you from a learner into a professional who can handle the demands of investment banking and corporate finance. Core Types of Financial Modelling Case Studies To grasp practical financial modelling, you must be familiar with the main types of models that professionals use. Below are the most impactful models you’ll encounter: 1. Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Model Case Study The DCF Model is the backbone of valuation. It helps analysts estimate the intrinsic value of a company by projecting free cash flows and discounting them to the present value. Case Example: Imagine valuing Infosys Ltd. Using financial statements, you forecast revenues for the next 5 years, calculate free cash flows, and discount them using the company’s weighted average cost of capital (WACC). By comparing intrinsic value with market price, you decide whether the stock is undervalued or overvalued. At RBei Classes, we make students solve such DCF case studies step by step, teaching them how to source assumptions, justify projections, and stress-test results. 2. Merger & Acquisition (M&A) Model Case Study M&A Models are used to evaluate whether combining two companies creates shareholder value. Case Example: Consider HDFC Bank’s merger with HDFC Ltd. The model forecasts combined revenues, synergies, integration costs, and accretion/dilution impact on EPS. Analysts compare standalone vs. merged performance to determine if the merger benefits shareholders. In class, we guide students on: Building pro-forma financial statements. Identifying cost and revenue synergies. Calculating goodwill and purchase price allocation. Assessing whether the deal is accretive or dilutive. This kind of M&A financial modelling case study gives students real investment banking exposure before entering the job market. 3. Equity Valuation Model Case Study Equity Valuation is at the core of investment banking and equity research. Professionals use multiples such as P/E, EV/EBITDA, and P/B ratios to compare companies. Case Example: Suppose you are tasked with valuing Zomato Ltd. You benchmark it against global food delivery companies like DoorDash. Using multiples such as EV/Sales, you estimate Zomato’s fair market value. Students at RBei Classes not only build the Equity Valuation Model but also prepare investment pitch presentations, mirroring what analysts do in global IB firms. Real-World Financial Modelling Case Studies You Must Learn Let’s now go deeper with industry-specific examples. Each case study highlights how financial modelling is applied practically. Case Study 1: Valuing a Tech Company Using a DCF Model Industry: IT Services Company: Infosys Ltd. Objective: Identify if Infosys stock is undervalued. Steps Taken: Collected 5 years of financial statements. Projected revenues based on IT industry growth and Infosys’ historical performance. Estimated operating margins and calculated free cash flows. Applied a discount rate of 10% (based on WACC). Compared intrinsic value to market capitalization. Insight: The DCF Model indicated Infosys was trading close to its fair value, reinforcing the reliability of DCF in equity research. Case Study 2: M&A Deal Between HDFC Bank and HDFC Ltd. Industry: Banking & Financial Services Objective: Evaluate post-merger synergies. Steps Taken: Built standalone financials for both entities. Estimated cost savings (branch overlap reduction, IT integration). Forecasted increased lending opportunities due to housing finance portfolio. Measured EPS accretion/dilution. Evaluated goodwill created post-merger. Insight: The merger created strong strategic value, showing how M&A models are critical in real decision-making. Case Study 3: Startup Valuation – Zomato IPO Industry: Food Delivery Objective: Assess Zomato’s valuation before IPO. Steps Taken: Compared Zomato’s EV/Sales multiple to global peers. Adjusted valuation to India’s market dynamics. Projected future revenue growth with rising internet penetration. Conducted sensitivity analysis on profitability timelines. Insight: Investors realized Zomato was a growth play rather than a profitability play. This kind of case study trains students to handle startup valuations with confidence. Case Study 4: Oil & Gas Company Financial Model Industry: Energy Company: ONGC Objective: Forecast production and profitability under fluctuating crude prices. Steps Taken: Projected revenue based on production volume and crude oil prices. Incorporated cost structures and exploration expenses. Modeled scenarios with different oil price levels. Conducted sensitivity and scenario analysis. Insight: Demonstrated how financial modelling adapts to cyclical industries and why analysts must stress-test assumptions. Case Study 5: Private Equity LBO Model Industry: Retail Objective: Evaluate buyout of a retail chain using debt financing. Steps Taken: Structured acquisition financing with equity and debt mix. Forecasted cash flows to test debt repayment ability. Estimated exit multiple for 5 years. Calculated IRR and NPV. Insight: LBO Models train students to think like private equity investors, focusing on cash flow sufficiency and leverage risks. Lessons Learned from Financial Modelling Case Studies Each case