batenbalans

A batenbalans is a financial statement used primarily in Dutch accounting to provide an overview of a company's assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point in time. The term translates roughly to "balance sheet" in English and is a fundamental component of financial reporting.

The batenbalans is divided into two main sections: the assets side (activa) and the liabilities and equity side (passiva). The assets section lists all resources owned by the company, such as cash, accounts receivable, inventory, property, and equipment. The liabilities section records obligations the company must settle, including loans, accounts payable, and other debts. The equity section reflects the residual interest of the owners, including share capital and retained earnings.

The batenbalans adheres to the accounting equation: Assets = Liabilities + Equity. This relationship ensures that the statement is balanced, providing a snapshot of the company's financial position at a given moment.

In Dutch accounting practices, the batenbalans is typically prepared annually and forms part of the company's financial statements submitted to tax authorities and stakeholders. Accurate and transparent batenbalans are crucial for assessing financial health, guiding decision-making, and maintaining compliance with legal standards.

Overall, the batenbalans serves as an essential tool for investors, creditors, and management to evaluate the company’s financial stability and operational efficiency.