Problem 1: Explore Chevron's annual Balance Sheet for the past two available years. Identify the trend (i.e. increase or decrease) demonstrated by Total Assets, Total Liabilities, and Total Equity for this time period. Also, identify at least one separate asset or liability increase or decrease within the Asset and Liability sections.
Problem 2: Assume that you interviewed Chevron's Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") and the CFO confidentially shared with you that for the latest quarter, which will report next week, Chevron's Net Profit Margin increased from 15% last quarter to 17% this quarter. Define the Net Profit Margin and how it is determined. Indicate if the company's results are good news or bad news. If the CFO would like to target a 20% Net Profit Margin for the next quarter, what needs to occur in terms of the Chevron's performance?
Problem 3: During the same conversation with the CFO in the previous question, it was confidentially shared with you that that for the latest quarter, which will be reported next week, Chevron's Current Ratio increased from 3.0x last quarter to 3.5x this quarter. Define the Current Ratio and how it is determined. Indicate if the company's results are good news or bad news. If the industry standard for a similar energy company is 4.0x, what types of changes would Chevron need to make in order to achieve this level for its Current Ratio as a target for next quarter?
Problem 4: Describe the impact of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act ("SOX") on the quality of Chevron's financial statements by including the purpose of this law and two changes that impacted the accounting profession and/or Chevron. Based on your understanding of SOX, indicate if you have greater confidence in Chevron's financial reports that you reviewed than you would if the law did not exist and provide your rationale.