Study Notes
Business finance refers to the funds required for various business activities, including starting up, expanding, and managing daily operations. It can be sourced internally or externally.
- Internal sources of finance — funds obtained from within the business. Example: Retained profits, personal savings, and selling assets.
- External sources of finance — funds obtained from outside the business. Example: Bank loans, issuing shares, and crowdfunding.
- Revenue expenditure — spending on daily expenses like wages and bills. Example: Paying for electricity bills.
- Capital expenditure — spending on long-term assets like machinery. Example: Purchasing new equipment for expansion.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Internal sources of finance
- External sources of finance
- Revenue expenditure
- Capital expenditure
Common Confusions
- Mixing up revenue and capital expenditure
- Confusing internal and external sources of finance
Typical Exam Questions
- What are internal sources of finance? Funds obtained from within the business, such as retained profits.
- What is the difference between revenue and capital expenditure? Revenue expenditure is for daily expenses, while capital expenditure is for long-term assets.
- How can a business use external sources of finance? By obtaining bank loans or issuing shares.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of different sources of finance
- Ability to distinguish between revenue and capital expenditure
- Knowledge of when to use internal vs. external finance