What determines business readiness according to the provided information?

Business readiness is primarily determined by various intangible factors, with the Four C's playing a significant role. The Four C's typically refer to components such as company culture, customer relations, capacity for growth, and competitive advantages. These elements help assess how well the business is positioned for a future transition or exit.

A strong company culture fosters employee engagement and retention, which are crucial during and after an ownership change. Positive customer relationships ensure ongoing revenue and business stability, while the capacity for growth indicates that the business can attract potential buyers based on its future prospects. Competitive advantages highlight the unique aspects of a business that differentiate it from competitors, enhancing its market position.

While financial statements provide crucial quantitative data, and employee satisfaction surveys offer insights into workplace morale, they do not encompass the broader spectrum of intangible factors that might affect a business's overall readiness for transition. Understanding and evaluating the Four C's allows for a deeper analysis of a business’s true potential and readiness for future changes.