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OpEx and CapEx: definition and differences

🏭 Definition: OpEx (Operating Expense) refers to the day-to-day expenses incurred in running a business, such as salaries, rent, utilities, and office supplies. CapEx (Capital Expense) refers to the purchase or upgrade of long-term assets, such as buildings, equipment, or software, that are used to generate revenue for the business.

Time Horizon: OpEx is recurring and short-term, typically incurred on a regular basis throughout the year. CapEx is infrequent and long-term, usually occurring every few years or more.

💰 Treatment on Financial Statements: OpEx is expensed in the period it is incurred and is included in the income statement. CapEx is capitalized and recorded as an asset on the balance sheet, and it is depreciated over the useful life of the asset. A portion of the expense is recognized on the income statement each year.

🧾 Tax Treatment: OpEx is fully deductible in the year it is incurred, which can help to reduce taxable income and the amount of tax owed. CapEx may need to be depreciated over several years, which may affect the timing and amount of tax savings.

📈 Impact on Business Strategy: OpEx is typically used to maintain operations and keep the business running smoothly, while CapEx is used to grow and expand the business.


Decisions about whether to invest in CapEx are often tied to a company's growth plans and overall business strategy.



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