Financial Results: How to Present Them Effectively in a Press Release

A key exercise in corporate communication

Financial press releases play a crucial role in corporate communication strategy.
Unlike standard 1-2 page press releases, those dedicated to financial results can range from 15 to 40 pages.

Why this length? Because they must simultaneously inform the media, reassure investors, and provide comprehensive data for analysts.
In this final installment of our Financial Communication series, Clipse Africa shares practical tips for writing a clear, structured, and impactful financial results press release.

1. Structure of a financial press release

A results press release aims to present a company’s annual (or semi-annual) performance to multiple audiences:

• Investors

• Partners

• Financial journalists

• Analysts

• The general public

It generally includes two main parts:

• A narrative summary of results (2 to 5 pages)

• A technical appendix with consolidated data (tables, charts)

2. First part: the narrative summary

This section serves as a showcase for the media. It should be clear, concise, and easy for journalists to use.

a) A simple and informative title

Examples:

• Financial Results 2024: XYZ Company Up 12%

• 2023 Annual Report – ABC Group: Results Exceed 2022

• DEF Records Three Consecutive Years of Growth

b) A strategic lead paragraph

Connect results to set objectives. Highlight key achievements, progress, and challenges overcome.

Example:
In 2024, XYZ recorded a +10% increase in revenue, driven by its digital services and 20% growth in the West African market.

c) Key figures in bullet points

• Revenue: +12%

• Net profit: 5.4 billion FCFA

• International performance: +18% in Central Africa

• Dividends: 600 million FCFA

• Net debt: 1.2 billion FCFA

• 2025 target: 10 billion FCFA

d) Analysis and vision

Include a quote from a company executive (CEO, CFO, Managing Director) commenting on performance and outlining future strategy.

3. Second part: the technical appendix

This is the longest and most detailed section, intended for analysts and investors. It typically includes:

• Income statement

• Balance sheet

• Revenue by activity or region

• Financial ratios (EBITDA, net margin, etc.)

• Changes in equity, investments, and cash flows

Tip: Use clear tables and graphs to make analysis easier.

4. Finding the right balance

A financial press release must be narrative enough for the media while rigorous enough for analysts.
Unlike press releases about mergers, acquisitions, or funding rounds, this type requires more precise figures while adhering to well-established editorial conventions.