Search+Intelligent InvestingSynopsisRevenue manipulation does not always sit in the sales line. The clue may be hidden deep in the figures and their explanation. This story explains these warning signs. The lesson is clear: Sales may appear in the P&L, while the real risk sits in the balance sheet and notes.A company sells a car. Six months later, by mutual agreement, it buys the same car back at a fixed price. Is that a sale? The invoice says yes. The bank account says yes.But look at what actually happened. The car left, and the car came home. Money came in, and money went out. Nobody really gave up anything. That is not a sale. That is a loan wearing a sale's clothing.Companies do this. Not always dishonestly, and not always illegally. But when ETMarkets.com 27 mins read, Last Updated: Jul 16, 2026, 01:25:00 PM ISTGift this Story to your friendsFONT SIZEAbcSmallAbcMediumAbcLargeSAVEPRINTCOMMENTContinue reading with one of these options:Limited AccessFreeLogin to get access to some exclusive stories & personalised newslettersLogin NowUnlimited AccessStarting @ Rs120/monthGet access to exclusive stories, expert opinions & in-depth stock reportsSubscribe NowETUh-oh! This is an exclusive story available for selected readers only.Worry not. You’re just a step away.What’s Included withETPrime Membership