Which of the following changes would increase the working capital requirement of a firm?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → The lead time for receiving its raw materials becomes longer.
Option (1) Its suppliers start allowing it a longer credit period on purchases. — Incorrect. This is credit availed. Suppliers wait longer for payment, so they finance part of the stock, and the requirement is reduced.
Option (2) Its business moves from the peak season into the lean season. — Incorrect. In the lean season the level of activity is lower, so less working capital is needed.
Option (3) The lead time for receiving its raw materials becomes longer. — Correct. Lead time is the gap between placing an order and receiving the material. A longer lead time means the firm must store a larger quantity of material to keep work going. More stock needs more working capital.
Option (4) Its inventory turnover ratio improves through better handling of raw materials. — Incorrect. This is operating efficiency. When raw materials are handled better, a smaller balance is enough, so the requirement falls.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “4. Seasonal Factors: Most business have some seasonality in their operations. In peak season, because of higher level of activity, larger amount of working capital is required. As against this, the level of activity as well as the requirement for working capital will be lower during the lean season.” “7. Credit Availed: Just as a firm allows credit to its customers it also may get credit from its suppliers. To the extent it avails the credit on purchases, the working capital requirement is reduced. |