What is the primary use of pro-forma financial statements in business?

Pro-forma financial statements are designed to present a company's projected financial performance based on specific assumptions and scenarios. These statements allow businesses to model their financial outcomes under different conditions, such as changes in sales, expenses, or economic factors. By illustrating hypothetical financial results, pro-forma statements help management and stakeholders make informed decisions related to budgeting, investment, and strategic planning.

In contrast to historical financial statements that reflect past performance, pro-forma statements focus on potential future outcomes, making them a valuable tool for forecasting and planning. This forward-looking aspect distinguishes pro-forma statements from options that emphasize historical analysis, regulatory compliance, or summarizing past earnings, which do not align with the primary function of pro-forma statements.