The Relative Ability of Earnings and Cash Flow from Operations in Predicting Future Cash Flows: Evidence from India

Abstract

The current study examines ability of earnings and cash flow from operations in predicting future cash flow from operations of Indian companies listed in Bombay stock exchange from 2002 to 2014. The study used cash flow from operations directly reported in the cash flow statement. For the purpose of estimating regression models, Ordinary least square approach used and in measuring the predictive power of each models in forecasting future cash flow adjusted R-squared used as forecasting measure. The findings of this study reported cash flow from operations to have more power in than earnings in predicting future cash flow, which do not support the assertion given out by Financial Accounting Standards Board. The findings of this study provide additional insights to Indian capital market researchers and also benefit users of accounting information in India by providing them with empirical evidence on the beneficial ability of cash flow data in predicting future cash flow and that would assist them in making their investment decisions, lending and other decisions and also knowing the financial status of company they wish to invest.