Which statement best describes survival as a business objective?

• A. To maximize profits immediately
• B. To avoid going out of business and ceasing trading
• C. To diversify product lines
• D. To increase market share

Answer: (B)

Survival as a business objective is about keeping the company solvent and able to continue trading. The focus is on staying alive—being able to meet obligations, maintain cash flow, and avoid bankruptcy or closure—so the business can operate into the future. This priority matters especially for startups or in tough economic conditions, where simply staying in business comes before pursuing growth or profit.

The statement that describes this best is the one that emphasizes preventing closure and ensuring ongoing trading. While aiming to maximize profits, diversify offerings, or grow market share can be important later, they require the business to remain viable first. If the business risks shutting down, those goals can’t be pursued, so survival takes precedence.