Explain what the working capital cycle measures. The formula is not needed.
Explain why a retail business is likely to have a shorter working capital cycle than a manufacturing business.
Calculate the working capital cycle for HT Limited from the forecast data. Assume a year of 365 days.
Calculate the net working assets to revenue ratio to one decimal place using the forecast data. Use the closing inventory figure.
Calculate the fall in the value of trade receivables on 31 December 2024 that would make the working capital cycle shorter by eight days.
Explain how this reduction would affect the net working assets to revenue ratio. No calculations are needed.
Advise the directors on whether they ought to keep trying to reduce the working capital cycle and the net working assets to revenue (sales) ratio every year for the next few years. Support your judgement with reasons.