Case Study
Passage with linked questions
Case Set 1
Case AnalysisPassage
Priya started a small garment manufacturing unit two years ago using her personal savings. Initially, the business ran smoothly, but as demand for her products grew, she realised that her working capital was becoming insufficient. She needed funds to purchase more raw materials, pay wages on time, and manage day-to-day expenses. Her chartered accountant advised her to look into trade credit from suppliers, but also mentioned that she could approach commercial banks for a short-term loan. Priya was also informed that retaining a portion of her profits instead of withdrawing everything could help build internal reserves. She is now evaluating which combination of sources would be most cost-effective and suitable for her working capital requirements without putting undue burden on the business.
Question 1: What is working capital and why does Priya need it?
- Working capital refers to funds required for day-to-day operations of a business.
- Priya needs it to purchase raw materials, pay wages, and meet current expenses like rent and taxes.
Question 2: How does trade credit help Priya in managing her working capital needs?
- Trade credit allows Priya to purchase raw materials and supplies without making immediate payment.
- It is a convenient and continuous source that does not create a charge on assets, helping her manage short-term fund requirements.
Question 3: Compare retained earnings and commercial bank loans as sources of working capital for Priya, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each.
- Retained earnings involve no explicit cost like interest or dividend, and provide operational freedom without creating a charge on assets; however, they depend on profits and excessive retention may cause dissatisfaction.
- Commercial bank loans provide timely assistance and are flexible, but they require security, involve detailed investigation, and carry interest obligations even during low-profit periods.
- For a small business like Priya's, retained earnings are more cost-effective, while bank loans are useful when funds needed exceed internal capacity.