What is the concept of working capital in accounting?

@fred.nader 

Working capital in accounting refers to the measure of a company's ability to meet its short-term financial obligations. It is calculated by subtracting current liabilities from current assets. Current assets include cash, accounts receivable, inventory, and other assets that are expected to be converted into cash within one year, while current liabilities include accounts payable, short-term debt, and other obligations that are due within one year.

Working capital indicates whether a company has enough resources to cover its day-to-day operations, such as paying suppliers, employees, and other short-term expenses. It also reflects the company's liquidity, efficiency, and financial health. Positive working capital implies that a company has enough current assets to cover its current liabilities, while negative working capital suggests that a company may struggle to meet its short-term obligations.

Maintaining an optimal level of working capital is crucial for businesses. Too much working capital may indicate inefficient use of resources and missed investment opportunities, while too little working capital can lead to financial distress and difficulties in meeting obligations. Businesses carefully manage their working capital through strategies like optimizing cash flow, managing inventory levels, and improving collection processes to ensure adequate liquidity for operational needs.