Managing Cash and Stocks

This chapter considers the two main physical items that have potential for control problems – cash and stocks. They are part of what’s known as the ‘cycle of working capital’. We’ve seen in earlier chapters some of the ways in which these can be managed effectively but we will now concentrate on specific areas for control. First we will look at cash being both received and paid. Second, we will consider the flow of stock and the various stages at which problems can occur. By the end of this chapter you will, therefore, be able to: - Describe the cycle of working capital - Identify the various stages at which cash moves in and out of the business - Identify the various stages through which stock moves around the business - Discuss methods of control appropriate to the operation - Calculate ratios relevant to cash and stock control.