What does the balance sheet report?

The balance sheet provides a snapshot of an organization's financial position at a specific point in time by detailing its assets, liabilities, and owner’s equity. Assets represent what the company owns, liabilities indicate what it owes, and owner’s equity shows the residual interest of the owners in the assets after deducting liabilities. This fundamental accounting equation—Assets = Liabilities + Owner's Equity—captures the essence of a balance sheet, allowing stakeholders to assess the company’s financial health and sustainability. By presenting a clear picture of resources and obligations, the balance sheet plays a crucial role in financial analysis, helping investors, creditors, and management understand the company's stability and liquidity status.