When preparing a "pro forma" forecast of a combined seller and buyer, which financial statement is prepared first?

In the context of preparing a "pro forma" forecast for a combined entity from a merger or acquisition, the Sources and Uses of Cash Flow statement is typically prepared first. This is primarily because it provides a detailed understanding of how much cash is needed for the transaction, where that cash will come from, and how it will be allocated.

The Sources and Uses of Cash Flow statement serves as a foundational tool that helps in assessing the financial needs of the combined entity, detailing both the sources of funds (such as cash from operations, debt financing, or equity financing) and how these funds will be utilized (such as paying for the acquisition or funding integration costs). By preparing this statement first, the company is able to establish a clear financial framework that informs the rest of the financial projections.

Following the completion of this statement, other financial statements, like the pro forma income statement or the combined balance sheet, can be developed with a clearer understanding of the financial landscape post-merger. The order of preparation ensures that all subsequent financial modeling considers the cash flow implications of the transaction from the outset.