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Multiple Choice
The cost of ______ is the minimum required return on a new investment.
A
inventory
B
capital
C
goods sold
D
depreciation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of 'cost of capital': In financial accounting, the cost of capital refers to the minimum return that a company must earn on its investments to satisfy its investors or creditors. It represents the opportunity cost of using capital for a specific purpose.
Identify the incorrect options: Inventory, goods sold, and depreciation are terms related to operational or accounting processes, but they do not represent the minimum required return on a new investment.
Clarify why 'capital' is the correct answer: Capital is the financial resource used to fund investments, and its cost is the expected return required by investors or lenders. This is the benchmark for evaluating whether a new investment is worthwhile.
Relate the concept to decision-making: Companies use the cost of capital to assess the profitability of potential investments. If the expected return on an investment exceeds the cost of capital, the investment is considered viable.
Summarize the importance: Understanding the cost of capital is crucial for making informed financial decisions and ensuring that investments align with the company's financial goals and obligations.