Peter Gratton, Ph.D., is a New Orleans-based editor and professor with over 20 years of experience in investing, economics, and public policy. Peter began covering markets at Multex (Reuters) and has ...

Straight line method spreads an asset's cost evenly over its life, aiding in clear financial planning. Using this method simplifies financial statements, making a company's health easier to assess.

Depreciation and amortization are two methods used in accounting to assess the decrease in the value of assets over time. While depreciation is similar to amortization, they differ in the type of ...

Accrual-based accounting requires a business to match the expenses it incurs with the revenues it generates each accounting period. Because a long-term asset, such as a piece of equipment, contributes ...