Explain why a segment with an operating loss can cause the company to have a decrease in total operating income if the segment is dropped.

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Answer

Dropping a segment may lead to a decrease in total operating income if such a segment has a positive contribution margin.

Step by step solution

01

Step-by-Step SolutionStep 1: Meaning of Operating Income

Operating income refers tothe revenue generated by a business from its major functions. It includes the revenues generated from the sale and purchase of goods or services after deducting the related expenses.

02

Loss in a segment leading to a decrease in operating income

A dropped segment may lead to a decrease in total operating income if such a segment is has a positive contribution margin. There may be a situation where a segment has a positive contribution margin but has an operating loss. It means that such a segment is helping the company to recover some of its fixed costs, and dropping the segment will decrease the total operating income.

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