What section of the CAFR provides trend data useful for financial statement interpretation?

The statistical section of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) is dedicated to providing trend data that is essential for interpreting the financial statements. This section presents a variety of data over a time series, which allows stakeholders to analyze financial trends and changes in financial position and performance.

This trend information can include various metrics such as revenues, expenditures, debt levels, and demographic data, all of which offer insights into the financial health and operational efficiency of the entity over time. By analyzing these trends, users can make informed decisions and assessments about the financial sustainability and overall trajectory of the governmental entity.

The other sections of the CAFR serve different purposes. The introductory section typically provides general information about the governmental entity, while the management discussion and analysis offers qualitative insights into the financial condition and results of operations. The financial section contains the core financial statements and notes, but it doesn't focus specifically on trend data as the statistical section does.