You Have Just Calculated the Acid-Test Ratio for Peak Performance

question 350

Multiple Choice

You have just calculated the acid-test ratio for Peak Performance Sporting Goods [acid test ratio = 1.0]. As a loan officer for the local bank, you are called into your boss's office to interpret the results of this ratio. Which of the following statements best reflects an understanding of these results?

• A) A company with an acid-test ratio = 1.0 demonstrates the ability to operate very conservatively. The bank should anticipate that this firm will always be able to meet its short-term liabilities.
• B) This company is already having problems meeting its short-term liabilities.
• C) An acid-test ratio = 1.0 means that this firm has $1.00 in current assets for every $2.00 in current liabilities. Peak Performance is a well-run operation, as long as it can continue to sell off its inventory.
• D) An acid-test ratio = 1.0 tells us that without adequate inventory turnover, this company may represent a higher risk. Peak Performance's acid-test ratio shows that the firm maintains $1.00 in current assets for every $1.00 in current liabilities.

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Definitions:

P/E Ratios

The price-to-earnings ratio, a valuation metric for stocks calculated by dividing the current market price of a stock by its earnings per share.

Macroeconomic Variables

Economic indicators that represent the overall health and performance of an economy, such as GDP, inflation rates, and unemployment rates.

Inflation

The rate at which prices for commodities and services overall ascend, depleting the power of purchase.

Common Shareholders' Equity

The amount of money that would be distributed to common stockholders if all assets were liquidated and all debts paid off.