What is the primary purpose of a balance sheet?

The primary purpose of a balance sheet is to provide a snapshot of a company's financial position at a specific point in time. This snapshot includes key components such as assets, liabilities, and equity. By presenting these elements, the balance sheet gives stakeholders, including investors and creditors, a clear view of what the company owns (assets) and owes (liabilities), along with the residual interest of the owners (equity). This information is crucial for assessing the financial health and stability of a business.

Understanding the balance sheet allows users to evaluate liquidity, operational efficiency, and risk, which are essential for making informed decisions about investments or lending. The balance sheet differs fundamentally from other financial statements, such as cash flow statements or income statements, which serve distinct functions related to cash movement and revenue generation, respectively.