Imagine you have been given $1,000 to buy shares of stock in a company (i.e., invest). You have narrowed down your options to Starbucks Coffee, and some of the closest competitors in the coffee market. Which element within the financial statements would be the most important to you in making your decision? Your answer can state a specific account, sub-total within a financial statement, an entire financial statement, or a ratio. State your element and explain why it is important to you for this decision.

2 points for correctly identifying a proper account title, financial statement, title, etc., and 2 points for a clear explanation as to why you believe that account is important for your decision. Note 1: There is no one right answer to this question. Note 2: To have the most informed decision we would look at all the financial statements together, including the footnotes, ratios, and audit opinion. However, for the purposes of this question, I am asking you to pick one specific element.