In economics, what is used to describe the wealth or resources that can be converted to cash for business use?

In economics, the term that describes wealth or resources that can be converted to cash for business use is capital. Capital refers to financial assets, such as cash, or physical resources, like machinery and equipment, that businesses can use to produce goods and services. Importantly, capital can be deployed to generate further wealth or profit, making it essential for businesses to operate and grow.

Revenue refers to the income generated from normal business operations, which is distinct from capital as it reflects earnings rather than the resources available for investment. Equity pertains to ownership in a business and represents the value of an owner’s share after liabilities are subtracted from assets, but it is not specifically focused on readily available cash for business purposes. Liabilities, on the other hand, are obligations that a business owes to outsiders, such as loans and accounts payable, and do not represent resources for conversion to cash.

Recognizing capital as the correct choice is important for understanding how businesses finance their operations and invest in growth opportunities.