______ is a measure of what the firm would have earned if it didn't have any obligations to creditors or tax authorities.

A) Net Sales
B) Operating Income
C) Net Income
D) Non-operating Income
E) Earnings before interest and taxes

Earnings Before Interest

A company's earnings calculated before interest expenses have been deducted, often referred to as EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Taxes).

Tax Authorities

Governmental agencies responsible for the collection of taxes, enforcement of tax laws, and the administration of tax policy.

Net Sales

Revenue from the sale of goods or services after the deduction of returns, allowances for damaged or missing goods, and discounts.