FDC in Google Finance: Understanding Financial Data

When you search for "FDC" on Google Finance, you're likely referring to First Data Corporation, which was a global payment technology solutions company. However, in 2019, First Data merged with Fiserv (FISV), a leading provider of financial services technology. Therefore, searching for "FDC" now directs you to Fiserv data.

Google Finance is a powerful tool for accessing a range of financial information, and understanding how it presents data related to companies like the former First Data and now Fiserv is crucial for informed decision-making. Here's a breakdown of what you can typically find and how to interpret it:

Key Data Points Available

• Stock Price: The real-time (or near real-time) price of Fiserv's stock (FISV) is displayed prominently. This is the price at which shares are currently being bought and sold on the stock exchange.
• Key Statistics: Google Finance provides a wealth of key stats, including the company's market capitalization (the total value of its outstanding shares), price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio (a valuation metric comparing the stock price to earnings per share), earnings per share (EPS), dividend yield (if applicable), and 52-week high and low prices. These metrics offer a quick snapshot of the company's financial health and market performance.
• Historical Data: You can access historical stock prices for Fiserv, dating back many years. This allows you to analyze price trends, identify patterns, and assess the stock's historical volatility. Charts can be customized to display different timeframes (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly) and chart types (e.g., line, candlestick).
• News & Analysis: Google Finance aggregates news articles and analysis related to Fiserv from various reputable sources. This helps you stay informed about the company's performance, industry trends, and potential catalysts for stock price movements. Keep in mind the source of news and potential biases.
• Financial Statements: Access to summarized financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement) is also generally available. While not as detailed as the full reports filed with the SEC, these summaries offer a convenient overview of the company's financial performance.
• Related Companies: Google Finance often suggests related companies within the same industry. This allows you to compare Fiserv's performance against its peers and gain a broader understanding of the competitive landscape.

Interpreting the Data

It's important to remember that financial data is just one piece of the puzzle. When evaluating Fiserv (or any company), consider the following:

• Industry Context: Understand the industry in which Fiserv operates (financial technology). Factors such as regulatory changes, technological advancements, and competitive pressures can significantly impact its performance.
• Company-Specific Factors: Analyze Fiserv's management team, business strategy, and competitive advantages. How is the company innovating and adapting to the changing market?
• Economic Conditions: Macroeconomic factors, such as interest rates, inflation, and economic growth, can influence the overall market and impact Fiserv's financial results.
• Merger Implications: Consider the long-term impact of the merger with First Data. Has the integration been successful? Are there synergies being realized?

While Google Finance provides valuable information, it should not be used as the sole basis for investment decisions. Consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment choices.