What are some ways that companies can manipulate their earnings?

There are many ways, but some examples include:

• Changing the depreciation method to report lower depreciation this year
• Reducing the estimate of write-offs for obsolete or damaged inventory
• Adjusting the method and period for amortization of intangible assets in order to reduce amortization expenses
• Changing assumptions about investment income or valuation of investment assets
• Making liberal adjustments to currency exchange loss assumptions
• Not including large one-time charges