This is a hands-on look at the crucial decision of how to define and finance the operating investments of a business. Starting with an overview of the fundamental framework of corporate finance, the authors set out to define the central, and usually underestimated, role that working capital plays within this structure.

Corporate finance -- Working capital -- Working capital, seasonality, and growth -- Financial analysis and working capital -- Cash management -- Managing account receivables -- Managing inventories -- Managing account payables -- Short-term debt -- Working capital and corporate strategy -- Working capital financing costs -- Patterns in working capital.