Balance Sheets Explained: Assets, Liabilities & Equity (And What They Really Mean)

Balance sheets can look intimidating — but once you know what you’re looking for, they tell a powerful story about a company’s financial strength (or hidden risk).

In this episode of The WealthWise Show, I break down how to read a balance sheet in plain English and how to use it to understand what a company owns, what it owes, and how stable it really is. Whether you’re a DIY investor, business owner, or just trying to get financially sharper, this episode will help you make sense of the numbers without getting lost in accounting jargon.

We cover:

• What a balance sheet is and why it matters
• Assets: cash, inventory, receivables, property, and what “liquidity” really means
• Liabilities: short-term vs. long-term debt and why timelines matter
• Shareholders’ equity: what it represents and what it doesn’t
• Key things I look for: current ratio, debt levels, working capital, and red flags
• How to spot strength vs. stress before you ever look at the stock price

🎧 If you’ve ever said, “I don’t really understand financial statements,” this is your starting point

The WealthWise Show is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal, or tax advice. Benowitz Wealth Management is a Registered Investment Adviser registered in the State of Florida. Advisory services are offered only to clients or prospective clients where the firm is properly registered or exempt from registration. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Any examples referenced are for illustration and educational purposes only and are not recommendations to buy or sell any security. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Listeners should consult a qualified professional regarding their individual financial situation.