Introduction
Fixed assets refer to the long-term assets that are held by a business in order to operate its operation. They are also known as tangible assets since they can be physically seen. Fixed assets are generally used in the production process and are not intended for sale or use in the normal course of the business. Examples of fixed assets include building, land, machinery, equipment, furniture, computer systems and software.
Characteristics
Fixed assets have several common characteristics that make them distinct from other types of assets. Firstly, they cannot easily be converted into cash, which means that they cannot be used in the regular course of business. Secondly, they are long lasting and have a significant economic life. Thirdly, they generally require a significant investment of capital in order to acquire them, and thus are considered to be highly liquid investments. Fourthly, they are generally depreciated over a certain period of time, which allows for tax savings.
Importance
The importance of fixed assets cannot be overstated. Without them, a business would not be able to operate. Fixed assets are essential to a business’s operations as they are used in the production process, and they also provide a way to increase the company’s value. Furthermore, since fixed assets can be depreciated, they provide tax savings which helps to reduce the business’s overall tax burden.
Risks
The main risk associated with fixed assets is that they are subject to loss or damage due to factors such as natural disasters, fire, theft and vandalism. As a result, it is important for businesses to take precautions such as purchasing insurance and providing adequate security to protect their fixed assets. Additionally, the value of fixed assets can also decrease over time due to economic conditions or changes in technology.
Conclusion
Fixed assets play an essential role in the operation of any business. They are long lasting and generally require a significant investment of capital in order to acquire them. Furthermore, they can provide tax savings as they are generally depreciated over a certain period of time. However, it is important for businesses to take appropriate measures to protect their fixed assets from damage and loss due to risks such as fire, theft, or technological changes. Therefore, businesses should consider purchasing insurance, providing adequate security and watching the economic environment in order to adequately protect their fixed assets.