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This thesis starts with the treatment of financial analysis in Austria as theoretical basis including the country-specific development and treatment of financial analysis in legislation. Afterwards the different types of analysts and their working environment are discussed as well as the different properties of analysts` forecasts. This happens with the help of studies and articles in international trade journals. After an empirical investigation this thesis closes with a critical review, going into detail of the occurring problems, and future prospects.

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2007 master´s programme of Business Administration / Financial and Industrial Management University of Graz, 2005 bachelor´s programme of Business Administration University of Vienna

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