We identify remarkable businesses by first analyzing historical accounting statements. We use a dozen financial metrics to determine whether a business has a proven track record of being remarkable. This data-driven, backward-looking process helps us cut down the noise and lets the numbers tell the story of a company. If the numbers showcase a company that is significantly better than the market average, we continue our analysis. Examples of ratios we find relevant are: management's ability to generate above-average returns on the capital invested in the business (Return on Invested Capital), profitability of the business (Operating Margin), and long-term growth in profits adjusted for all costs to shareholders (free cash flow per share growth over 5 years).