What does working capital primarily indicate about a company?

Working capital primarily indicates a company's short-term financial health because it represents the difference between current assets and current liabilities. This measurement is crucial for assessing a company's ability to cover its short-term obligations and manage its day-to-day operations effectively. When working capital is positive, it shows that a company can fund its current operations and meet its upcoming payments. Conversely, if working capital is negative, it may signal potential liquidity issues, making it difficult for the business to sustain operations in the near term.

Maintaining healthy working capital is vital for ensuring that a company can invest in opportunities that may arise, pay suppliers on time, and fulfill immediate financial obligations. Thus, it serves as an important indicator of financial stability and operational efficiency in the short term. The focus on short-term financial health sets working capital apart from other measures that evaluate different aspects of a business's performance or strategy.