Research-first, always
I start with primary sources — SEC 10-K filings, shareholder letters, Nielsen and Deloitte industry data — and build to a clear call. I flag where valuation metrics break down instead of forcing a multiple to fit. And I learn finance by doing it: researching real companies, presenting to real audiences, and teaching it to students working through the same material — explaining a valuation clearly is the best test of whether I truly understand it.