What factor is key when determining EBITDA from a financial statement?

The key factor in determining EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) from a financial statement is the exclusion of interest and taxes. EBITDA is a measure that focuses on a company's operational performance and profitability by looking strictly at earnings generated from core business activities, without the influence of financing structure or tax environments. This allows analysts to evaluate a company's ability to generate profit from its operations.

The exclusion of interest is important because it provides a clearer picture of profitability free from the effects of capital structure choices - companies may have different levels of debt financing that affect interest expenses. Similarly, the exclusion of taxes is relevant as tax rates and strategies vary significantly across jurisdictions, which could otherwise skew comparisons between companies.

While aspects like net sales, operating costs, and capital expenditures have their importance in a holistic view of the financial health and performance of a business, they do not play the same direct role in calculating EBITDA itself. Understanding the purpose of EBITDA as a measure that reflects operational efficiency and profitability highlights why excluding interest and taxes is fundamental to its calculation.