Asking the ONE most important question: How much cash can be generated from the business?

Asking the ONE most important question: How much cash can be generated from the business?

If a businessperson is asked about what goes into consideration when purchasing a business, the number one answer should be:

How much cash can be generated from the business?


Other answers, though important, are of secondary importance, such as:

What is the business worth?
Who is the biggest competitor?
What is motivating the seller of the business?


Therefore, the businessperson when purchasing a business should examine the business aspects of his investments.  This involves looking at:

1.  the income statements
2.  the capital reinvestment requirements, and
3.  the cash generating capabilities of the business or investments.