Nordstrom, Inc. operates department stores in numerous states. Selected fi nancial statement data (in millions of dollars) for a recent year follow. LO8 End of Year Beginning of Year Cash and cash equivalents $ 72 $ 358 Receivables (net) 1,942 1,788 Merchandise inventory 900 956 Other current assets 303 259 Total current assets $3,217 $3,361 Total current liabilities $1,601 $1,635 Instructions

(a) Compute working capital and the current ratio at the beginning of the year and at the end of the year.

(b) Did Nordstrom’s liquidity improve or worsen during the year?

(c) Using the data in the chapter, compare Nordstrom’s liquidity with Best Buy’s (see page 55).