Friday, May 25, 2018

Fundamental Financial Analysis Tools for Organizations


With experience in healthcare and insurance auditing, Jeffrey Plotzker previously served as a program specialist with a New York State Department of Health program. Among Jeffrey Plotzker’s areas of extensive knowledge are data and financial analysis as it relates to forecasting for businesses and other organizations. 

One of the fundamental techniques of forecasting is trend analysis, also known as time-series analysis. Incorporating historical data provided by past financial statements, this approach also takes data from forward-looking pro forma financial statements and employs ratio analysis to create a coherent, long-term organizational picture. With consistent trends and variations over time factored in, this analysis enables future cash flow, revenue, and profit prospects to be assessed with a reasonable amount of certainty. 

Benchmarking expands the analytical scope to entire markets and industries and provides a financial snapshot of the company’s comparative strengths and weaknesses. This is critical in identifying inefficiencies and competitive advantages, which tie into the corporate bottom line and how attractive a company is to equity investors.

Sunday, May 13, 2018

Three Must-Try Hikes in New York State


A longtime New York resident, Jeffrey Plotzker has gained extensive work experience in a variety of settings and most recently worked for two years as a healthcare program specialist. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jeffrey Plotzker enjoys hiking.

When people think of New York, the booming metropolis of New York City is often the first thing that comes to mind. However, the state is quite large, with plenty to offer outside of the Big Apple. Below are three must-visit trails for hiking enthusiasts in New York.

1. Cascade Mountain - One of the 46 peaks in the Adirondack Mountains, the Cascade Mountain peak hike is arguably the most popular and suitable for individuals of varying fitness levels. It's slightly less than five miles, but includes a campground at its summit where you can rest and even prepare a meal.

2. Harriman State Park - Located near Tuxedo, New York, Harriman State Park offers some of the best views in the state as it is home to more than 30 lakes and reservoirs as well as 200 miles of hiking trails. Be sure to check out the abandoned Black Ash Mine if you get a chance. 

3. Buttermilk Falls Gorge Trail - A half-hour drive from the equally-impressive Watkins Glen State Park, Buttermilk Falls offers a variety of short, but strenuous trails with a high incline. However, the reward at the top of the trail--the swimming area at the base of Buttermilk Falls--is well worth the climb.