What does the balance sheet primarily show?

The balance sheet is a financial statement that provides a snapshot of an organization’s financial position at a specific point in time. It lists the company’s assets, liabilities, and equity, presenting a clear picture of what the business owns and owes. This information is crucial for stakeholders to assess the company's financial health, liquidity, and solvency.

In contrast to other financial statements, such as the income statement or cash flow statement, the balance sheet does not show financial performance over a period or include forecasts. Therefore, the focus on providing a moment-in-time view of the organization’s financial status is what makes this option the most accurate representation of the balance sheet's purpose.