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In accounting, what do liabilities refer to?

  1. Investments made by the shareholders

  2. Assets owned by the company

  3. Debts or obligations owed by a company

  4. Profits retained within the company

The correct answer is: Debts or obligations owed by a company

Liabilities in accounting represent the debts or obligations that a company owes to external parties. This includes loans, accounts payable, mortgages, and other financial obligations that must be repaid in the future. Liabilities are a critical component of a company’s balance sheet and are essential for understanding its financial health and stability. They indicate the company’s reliance on debt to finance its operations and investments, which can affect its cash flow and overall financial strategy. Understanding liabilities is essential for evaluating a company's solvency, which is its ability to meet long-term and short-term obligations. When liabilities are compared to assets, they provide insights into the company's leverage and financial structure. Effective management of liabilities is crucial for maintaining operational capacity and supporting growth initiatives.