market analysis

1. An evaluation of the market for a company's goods and services. For example, a company might be interested in the characteristics of consumers who are buying the firm's products, or a comparison of its products with those offered by competitors.
2. Research that offers assistance in forecasting price trends for stocks and bonds. Market analysis may concentrate on fundamental factors including earnings, inflation, and costs, or it may be directed at technical considerations such as trading volume and price charts.