Financial controls are designed to help managers to:

• A. Increase the company's market share directly
• B. Set employee salaries and benefits
• C. Develop new products and services
• D. Safeguard assets and ensure the accuracy of financial records

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of financial controls: Financial controls are mechanisms and procedures implemented by a company to ensure the proper management of its financial resources. They are not directly aimed at increasing market share, setting salaries, or developing products, but rather at safeguarding assets and ensuring accurate financial reporting.
2. Clarify the role of financial controls: Financial controls help prevent fraud, theft, and errors in financial transactions. They ensure compliance with laws and regulations and provide reliable financial information for decision-making.
3. Differentiate financial controls from other managerial functions: While financial controls focus on protecting assets and maintaining accurate records, other managerial functions like marketing strategies, HR policies, and R&D initiatives address market share, employee benefits, and product development.
4. Relate financial controls to safeguarding assets: Safeguarding assets involves implementing measures such as internal audits, segregation of duties, and physical security to protect company resources from misuse or loss.
5. Relate financial controls to ensuring accuracy of financial records: Ensuring accuracy involves maintaining proper documentation, reconciling accounts, and adhering to accounting standards to produce reliable financial statements.