What are Operating cash flow in accounting?

Operating cash flow is the money generated by a firm to perform its regular operations in a specific period of time. It tells about the operational health of the firm. If a firm generates positive cash flow, it means that the firm can’t remain solvent in long run. If the firm generates negative cash flows, it should have some financial support to meet the needs or to raise its additional capital.

Formula

Operating cash flow = operating income + depreciation – taxes (+/-) change on working capital

Operating income = revenue – cost of sales

Purpose of operating cash flow is explained below −

• To meet its operating expenses.
• Provide capital for future.
• Meet entity’s interest and debt requirements to pay dividends.

Examples

The examples are given below −