Which of the following best describes a business's goal?

A business's primary goal is often described as maximizing profit. This objective is fundamental because profit serves as a crucial measure of a business's financial health and viability. When businesses prioritize profit maximization, they focus on increasing revenue while managing costs effectively. This approach typically leads to better resources for growth, investment in innovation, and the ability to reward employees and stakeholders, ultimately contributing to the overall success and sustainability of the business.

While expanding ownership, promoting sustainability, and maintaining existing customers are important considerations that can contribute to a business's long-term strategy, they typically support the overarching aim of profit maximization. For example, expanding ownership may help attract investment, promoting sustainability can foster goodwill among consumers and potentially lead to increased market share, and maintaining existing customers assures steady revenue. However, without a focus on maximizing profit, these goals might not generate the necessary financial outcomes that sustain the business in the competitive market.