What does the term "cash flow" refer to?

The term "cash flow" refers to the total amount of money being transferred into and out of a business or an individual's accounts. This concept is crucial in personal finance and business management, as it encompasses all cash inflows (such as earnings from sales, salaries, and interest) and cash outflows (such as expenses, investments, and loan repayments). Understanding cash flow allows individuals and businesses to maintain liquidity, make informed financial decisions, and plan for the future.

In this context, cash flow is not limited to net income after taxes, which only represents the profit after all expenses, nor is it confined to profits made from investments, as that would exclude operational cash activities. Additionally, focusing solely on the amount allocated for expenses neglects the broader perspective of both inflows and outflows that define cash flow. Therefore, the comprehensive view of cash movement is accurately captured by the definition highlighting the total cash flow in and out of accounts.