Which of the following best describes how the finance function ensures that the company’s financial goals are achieved in relation to inventory costing methods?

• A. By selecting inventory costing methods that align with the company's financial objectives and reporting requirements
• B. By only using the FIFO method regardless of the company's goals
• C. By delegating all inventory decisions to the marketing department
• D. By ignoring the impact of inventory costing methods on financial statements

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the finance function in achieving a company’s financial goals. The finance function ensures that financial objectives are met by aligning accounting practices, such as inventory costing methods, with the company’s strategic goals and reporting requirements.
2. Review the concept of inventory costing methods. Common methods include FIFO (First-In, First-Out), LIFO (Last-In, First-Out), and Weighted Average Cost. Each method impacts the financial statements differently, particularly in terms of cost of goods sold (COGS) and inventory valuation.
3. Analyze how inventory costing methods affect financial statements. For example, FIFO typically results in higher inventory values and lower COGS during periods of rising prices, which can increase reported profits. Conversely, LIFO may reduce taxable income during inflationary periods by increasing COGS.
4. Evaluate the importance of selecting inventory costing methods that align with the company’s financial objectives. For instance, a company aiming to maximize reported profits might prefer FIFO, while one seeking tax advantages might opt for LIFO. The choice should also comply with reporting standards like GAAP or IFRS.
5. Eliminate incorrect options based on the analysis. Delegating inventory decisions to the marketing department or ignoring the impact of inventory costing methods on financial statements does not align with the finance function’s role. Using only FIFO regardless of goals is overly rigid and may not support the company’s objectives. The correct approach is to select methods that align with financial objectives and reporting requirements.