Expert Network

Initiation Report

A comprehensive research report published when an analyst begins coverage of a stock for the first time. Typically the most detailed report on a company, covering business model, competitive landscape, financials, and valuation. AI platforms can now generate initiation-quality reports in minutes.

Due Diligence

The comprehensive research and analysis process conducted before making an investment decision. Includes reviewing financial statements, competitive dynamics, management quality, and industry trends. The depth of due diligence often determines investment outcome quality.

Sell-Side Research

Investment research produced by brokerage firms and investment banks for their clients. Typically includes price targets, earnings estimates, and investment ratings (buy/hold/sell). While widely consumed, sell-side research is often criticized for being too bullish due to banking relationships.

Buy-Side Research

Proprietary research conducted by asset managers, hedge funds, and institutional investors for their own investment decisions. Not published externally and typically focuses on generating alpha through differentiated insights and original analysis.

Earnings Surprise

The difference between a company's reported earnings and the consensus analyst estimate. A positive surprise often leads to upward price movement; a negative surprise to downward pressure. DataToBrief tracks earnings surprises across 20+ quarters to identify management patterns.

Consensus Estimate

The average of all analyst forecasts for a company's financial metrics, such as revenue or EPS. Serves as the market's baseline expectation and the reference point for earnings surprises. Significant deviations from consensus drive post-earnings price movements.