Inventory Valuation Methods: FIFO, LIFO, and Weighted Average

Financial Accounting Standards and Reporting · 2:53

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Lyrics

[Verse 1]
When companies buy inventory at different costs
They need a method so nothing gets lost
First In First Out or FIFO's the way
Oldest items get sold first every day
Like a grocery store with milk on the shelf
Rotate the stock to maintain your wealth

[Chorus]
FIFO, LIFO, Weighted Average too
Three methods for inventory, which one will you choose
FIFO first, LIFO last, Average smooths it out
Learn these methods well, that's what CFA's about

[Verse 2]
Last In First Out, that's LIFO's game
Newest inventory sold, costs aren't the same
When prices are rising, COGS goes up high
Profits look lower, taxes say goodbye
But cash flow improves when tax bills decline
LIFO's the choice when saving's your sign

[Chorus]
FIFO, LIFO, Weighted Average too
Three methods for inventory, which one will you choose
FIFO first, LIFO last, Average smooths it out
Learn these methods well, that's what CFA's about

[Bridge]
Weighted Average takes all costs in stride
Divides by quantities, smooths the ride
No extreme highs, no extreme lows
Steady and stable, that's how it goes
IFRS says LIFO's not allowed
US GAAP permits it, standing proud

[Verse 3]
Balance sheet values change with each way
FIFO shows current costs at play
LIFO's outdated when prices inflate
Weighted Average finds the middle state
Income statements tell different tales
Choose your method before the ship sails

[Chorus]
FIFO, LIFO, Weighted Average too
Three methods for inventory, which one will you choose
FIFO first, LIFO last, Average smooths it out
Learn these methods well, that's what CFA's about

[Outro]
Financial analysts need to know
How inventory methods make numbers flow
Compare the companies, adjust the books
Master these concepts with analytical looks

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