WAEC SSCE - Commerce - 2010

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When the buyer of an existing share is to receive the pending dividend, the price is referred to as "cum div." The term "cum div" is short for "cumulative dividend," which means that the buyer will receive the dividend payment that has already been declared by the company. In other words, when a share is sold cum div, the seller is entitled to receive the dividend payment that has been declared by the company, but has not yet been paid out. The buyer of the share is also entitled to receive this pending dividend payment, since they will own the share when the dividend is paid. The opposite of cum div is "ex-div," which means "without dividend." When a share is sold ex-div, the buyer is not entitled to receive the pending dividend payment, since they did not own the share when the dividend was declared. So, if a buyer wants to receive the pending dividend payment for an existing share, they would need to purchase the share cum div, not ex-div.

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The document of title to goods being shipped abroad is known as the "bill of lading". A bill of lading is a legal document that serves as evidence of the contract of carriage, as well as receipt of goods being transported by sea. It includes important information about the goods being shipped, such as their description, quantity, and destination, and also includes details about the carrier and the terms of the agreement between the shipper and the carrier. The bill of lading is typically issued by the carrier, or their agent, to the shipper or consignor, and is required for the release of the goods at the port of destination. It is an important document for both the shipper and the carrier as it provides a record of the shipment and can be used as evidence in case of any disputes that may arise.

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A company whose shares are not easily transferable is a private limited company. This means that the company is privately owned and its shares are not available for public trading on a stock exchange. The number of shareholders in a private limited company is limited and the transfer of shares is restricted to maintain the ownership structure of the company. Private limited companies are usually smaller in size and often owned by a group of individuals, families, or small businesses.

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Catalogs are mostly used by mail order firms. Mail order firms are businesses that allow customers to order products remotely, without visiting a physical store. Customers can browse products in a catalog, select the items they want to purchase, and then place an order by mail, phone, or online. Catalogs are an important part of the mail order business because they provide a convenient way for customers to view and select products. Catalogs typically include detailed descriptions of the products, along with photographs and prices. They may also include customer reviews and recommendations to help customers make informed purchasing decisions. By using catalogs, mail order firms can reach a wider audience of customers who may not have easy access to physical stores or who prefer the convenience of shopping from home.

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If a businessman wants to insure against the dishonesty of the cashier, he will take a fidelity guarantee cover. A fidelity guarantee cover, also known as a fidelity bond, is an insurance policy that protects businesses against losses caused by the fraudulent or dishonest acts of their employees. Specifically, a fidelity guarantee cover provides coverage for losses resulting from the theft or embezzlement of money, securities, or other property by an employee. In this case, the businessman is concerned about the dishonesty of the cashier, and a fidelity guarantee cover would provide the necessary protection against any losses that may result from the cashier's fraudulent or dishonest actions. Therefore, the businessman should take a fidelity guarantee cover to insure against the risk of dishonesty by the cashier.

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To calculate Ojo's net profit, we need to subtract his total cost (which includes the cost of buying and repairing the bicycle) from the selling price. Ojo's total cost is the sum of the cost of buying the bicycle and the cost of repairing it, which is: 20,000 + 5,000 = 25,000 His selling price is: 30,000 To find his net profit, we subtract the total cost from the selling price: 30,000 - 25,000 = 5,000 Therefore, Ojo's net profit is #5,000.

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Small scale retailers continue to survive inspite of serious competition from large scale retailers because they maintain personal relationship with customers. Small scale retailers can provide personalized services to their customers, such as individual attention, product recommendations, and customized services, that larger retailers often cannot. By building relationships with their customers, small scale retailers can create a loyal customer base and retain their business, even in the face of competition from larger retailers. This can help them to survive and thrive in the market.

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The mode of transport that involves the use of tramps is sea transport. Tramp ships are cargo vessels that do not have a fixed schedule or itinerary. Instead, they are chartered by cargo owners to transport goods between different ports as needed. Tramp ships are often used for transporting large or bulk cargoes, such as coal, grains, and minerals. They are also used for transporting goods that require specialized handling, such as oversized or hazardous cargoes. Tramp ships can be hired for a single voyage or for an extended period of time, depending on the needs of the cargo owner. This mode of transport is popular because it offers flexibility and cost-effectiveness, allowing cargo owners to transport goods on an as-needed basis.

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Sole proprietorship is a form of business owned by an individual. It is a type of business structure where a single person owns and operates the business. The owner has complete control over the operations and management of the business, including decision-making, profit-sharing, and liability. In a sole proprietorship, the owner is responsible for all the debts and obligations of the business. They also have unlimited liability, which means that their personal assets can be used to pay for any debts or legal claims against the business. This form of business is common among small businesses and startups as it is easy to set up and maintain. It also provides the owner with flexibility and independence in managing the business.

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The advertising function among the options provided is "Persuading". Persuading is an advertising function that aims to influence a consumer's perception or behavior in favor of a product or service. It involves using various strategies such as emotional appeal, informative message, celebrity endorsements, etc., to create a positive image of the product and encourage consumers to purchase it. The goal of this function is to persuade potential customers to take a specific action, such as buying a product or service, subscribing to a service, or visiting a store. Packaging is not an advertising function, but rather a product function that involves designing and creating an attractive container for a product. Grading refers to the process of classifying products based on specific criteria, such as quality or size. Segmenting is the process of dividing a market into smaller groups of consumers with similar needs or characteristics, in order to target specific groups with marketing strategies that are tailored to their unique preferences. While these functions are important in marketing, they are not specifically related to advertising.

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The statement that is not true of the stock exchange is "it is a commodity market." A stock exchange is a marketplace where stocks or securities are traded. It is not a commodity market where raw materials or primary products are bought and sold. The other statements are true: the stock exchange provides a market for trading on shares, governments and companies raise funds through it, and it also provides professional advice on investment.

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The name of the service where a bank makes regular payments on behalf of its customers is called a standing order. A standing order is a way for customers to set up regular payments to another person, company, or organization, such as rent, bills, or subscriptions. The customer specifies the amount, frequency, and duration of the payments, and the bank automatically transfers the funds on the specified date. Unlike direct debits, which are initiated by the payee, standing orders are initiated by the payer, and the amount remains the same each time. Standing orders are a convenient and reliable way for customers to ensure that their regular payments are made on time, without the need for manual intervention each time a payment is due.

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The quality that guarantees the keeping of money for a long period is durability. Durability refers to the ability of money to last for a long time without deteriorating in value or physical condition. Money must be able to withstand wear and tear, handling, and storage without losing its value. This is important because people want to be able to keep their money for a long time without it losing its purchasing power or physical form. For example, if money was made of a material that easily wears out or gets destroyed over time, it would not be a good store of value. Durability ensures that money can be kept for a long period, enabling people to save and accumulate wealth over time.

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A more suitable medium for advertising a new tractor would be a "Trade fair". A trade fair is an event where companies showcase their products and services to a large audience, often including industry experts, potential customers, and other stakeholders. By participating in a trade fair, a company can directly engage with potential customers, demonstrate the features and benefits of their product, and generate leads for sales. Trade fairs provide an opportunity to create a strong brand image, generate buzz, and build relationships with other businesses and industry experts. While radio, posters, and neon signs can be effective advertising mediums in certain situations, they may not be the best options for advertising a new tractor. Radio advertisements lack the visual component necessary for showcasing the features of a product like a tractor, while posters and neon signs may not reach the right audience or generate the level of engagement and interaction necessary for making a significant impact on sales. Therefore, a trade fair would be a more effective medium for advertising a new tractor.

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The rate of taxation is not contained in a deed of partnership. A deed of partnership is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of a partnership agreement. It includes important information such as the names and addresses of the partners, the nature of the business, the duration of the partnership, the capital contributions of each partner, and the ratio for sharing profits and losses. The deed of partnership also outlines the rights and responsibilities of each partner, as well as the procedures for decision-making, accounting, and dispute resolution. However, it does not typically include information about the rate of taxation, as this is a matter that is determined by the tax laws and regulations of the country in which the partnership operates. In summary, a deed of partnership is a crucial document that helps to ensure that all partners are on the same page and that the partnership operates smoothly and effectively. It includes a wide range of important information, but does not typically address tax rates.

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The legal document that gives an individual power to protect their own piece of invention is called a patent right. A patent is a type of intellectual property that gives the inventor the exclusive right to prevent others from making, using, selling, or importing their invention for a certain period of time, usually 20 years from the date of filing. In order to be granted a patent, the invention must meet certain requirements, including being novel, useful, and non-obvious. Having a patent gives the inventor legal protection and the right to license or sell their invention to others. It also helps to prevent others from stealing or copying their invention without permission, which can help to ensure that the inventor is able to profit from their hard work and creativity. In summary, a patent right is a legal document that gives an individual the exclusive right to protect their own invention, preventing others from using, making, or selling it without their permission.

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The ancillary service that makes it possible for goods to be where they are required is transportation. This is because transportation involves the movement of goods and products from one location to another, making it possible for them to be available where they are needed. Communication enables the exchange of information necessary for the movement of goods, banking enables financial transactions, and insurance provides financial protection against loss or damage to goods during transportation. However, transportation is the service that physically moves goods and makes them available at their destination.

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When sending important documents through the post, it is important to consider the level of security and protection that each postal service option provides. Out of the options provided, registered mail is the safest way of sending important documents through the post. Registered mail is a service that provides an added layer of security to protect against loss, theft, or damage of the package during transit. When using registered mail, the sender receives a unique tracking number that allows them to track the progress of their package from the moment it is sent until it is delivered to the recipient. Additionally, the recipient must sign for the package upon delivery, which provides an extra layer of security to ensure that the package is received by the intended recipient. In contrast, parcel post, letter post, and express mail services may not provide the same level of protection or tracking capabilities as registered mail. Therefore, if you need to send important documents through the post, it is recommended to use registered mail for the highest level of security and protection.

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A cheque issued in January 1997 which the holder failed to present for payment until September 1997 is called a "stale cheque." A stale cheque is a cheque that is no longer valid or has expired because it has not been presented for payment within a certain time frame. The time frame for presenting a cheque for payment varies depending on the issuing bank and the laws of the country, but typically ranges from six months to a year. In this case, since the cheque was issued in January 1997 and not presented for payment until September 1997, it had become stale and could no longer be cashed. The holder of the cheque would need to contact the issuer to request a new cheque or payment in another form.

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A bonded warehouse is a secure place where goods can be stored without payment of customs duties and taxes until they are either exported to other countries or released for sale in the domestic market. Bonded warehouses are typically used to store dutiable goods, such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and luxury goods, as well as goods that are subject to other import restrictions or regulations. The goods stored in a bonded warehouse are under the custody of the customs authority until the duties and taxes are paid or the goods are otherwise released from the warehouse.

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The provision of adequate berths for ships to load and off-load is the function of the Ports Authority. Ports are designated areas on the coast or on a river that provides necessary facilities for ships to dock, load and unload goods and passengers. The Ports Authority is responsible for the management and operation of ports, ensuring that there are enough berths available for ships to dock and carry out their activities. Berths are the designated spaces on a quay or wharf where ships can be moored or anchored while loading or unloading cargo. Therefore, the Ports Authority is responsible for ensuring that there are enough berths to accommodate the ships using the port.

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The option that is used for a single payment of many people at the same time through a bank instead of writing separate cheques is a credit transfer. A credit transfer is a method of electronic funds transfer in which money is transferred directly from one bank account to another. It is often used by businesses and organizations to pay multiple individuals or vendors at the same time. For example, a company may use a credit transfer to pay salaries to its employees or to pay its suppliers. This method eliminates the need for writing separate cheques and reduces the risk of errors and fraud. The bank acts as an intermediary, transferring the funds from the payer's account to the payee's account. The payer provides the bank with the details of the payments, such as the payee's name and account number, and the bank ensures that the funds are credited to the correct accounts.

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The import of foreign-produced goods to be re-exported is known as "entrepot trade." This is a type of trade in which goods are imported from one country and then re-exported to another country without any significant changes made to the goods. Entrepot trade can occur when a country has a strategic location or a free trade zone that makes it a hub for international trade. This type of trade allows for greater efficiency in global supply chains, as it enables goods to be shipped to a central location before being distributed to their final destination. Additionally, it can help to reduce costs by bypassing tariffs and other trade barriers that may be in place between the exporting and importing countries.

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The exchange of goods for goods in home trade is known as trade by barter. This type of trade involves the exchange of goods or services directly without the use of money as a medium of exchange. For example, a farmer may exchange his produce for the goods or services of another farmer without the use of money. Trade by barter was a common form of exchange in earlier times when there was no currency or money. In modern times, trade by barter is still practiced in some rural areas or in situations where the parties involved have limited access to cash or credit facilities. However, it is not a common form of trade in the global economy.

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Votes according to shares held is not a feature of a cooperative society. In a cooperative society, each member has one vote, regardless of the number of shares they hold. This democratic structure ensures that all members have equal say in the decision-making process, regardless of their financial contribution. The other options listed are all features of a cooperative society. Owners are also the customers, meaning that the members of the cooperative society are the ones who use the goods or services provided by the society. Capital can be repaid to a member if the society has surplus funds and decides to distribute them. Dividend is based on patronage, which means that members receive a share of the profits based on their use of the society's goods or services. Overall, the key features of a cooperative society include democratic control, voluntary membership, economic participation by members, and autonomy and independence.

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The function of a retailer that is NOT correct is "Financing manufacturers." Retailers are businesses that sell goods to consumers, and their main functions include providing after-sales services, stocking a variety of goods, and selling in small units to the consumers. Retailers do not typically provide financing to manufacturers, as this is a function that is typically performed by banks or other financial institutions. While some retailers may offer financing options to their customers, they do not typically provide direct financing to the manufacturers of the goods they sell. Rather, retailers purchase goods from manufacturers or wholesalers and then sell them to consumers at a markup.

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The practice whereby customers purchase goods without being attended to by shop assistants is called self-service. This means that customers are responsible for selecting and purchasing items without the assistance of a salesperson. Self-service can be found in a variety of retail environments, such as grocery stores, hardware stores, and department stores. This approach to shopping is designed to allow customers to browse and make purchases at their own pace, without feeling pressured or rushed by salespeople.

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The factor that is not to be considered in starting a retail trade is the level of tax payable. While tax is an important consideration for any business, it is not a determining factor in whether or not to start a retail trade. The other factors listed - size of the business, nature of the business, and amount of capital required - are all important considerations in starting a retail trade. The size of the business is an important consideration because it will impact the amount of space and resources needed to operate the business effectively. The nature of the business is important because it will determine the type of products or services that will be offered, and the target market for the business. The amount of capital required is an important consideration because it will determine the resources that will be available to start and operate the business, and will impact the overall financial viability of the business. In summary, while taxes are an important consideration for any business, it is not a determining factor in starting a retail trade. Rather, the size of the business, nature of the business, and amount of capital required are the key factors that need to be considered.

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A roof containing a number of shops is a department store. A department store is a large retail establishment that offers a wide range of products organized into separate departments or sections. Each department within a department store is typically dedicated to a specific category of goods, such as clothing, electronics, or home goods. The concept of a department store originated in the 19th century as a way to offer consumers a wider range of products in a single location. Today, department stores are still popular shopping destinations because they offer convenience and a large selection of products. Some department stores also offer additional services, such as personal styling, alterations, and gift wrapping.

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Out of the given options, only a public limited company can quote its shares on the stock exchange. This means that the company can sell its shares to the public and the shares can be bought and sold on a stock exchange, like the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ. The other options - partnership, sole-proprietorship, and co-operative society - are not able to quote their shares on the stock exchange, as they are not structured as publicly traded companies.

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The option that is NOT a disadvantage of a one-man business is "Personal control of business." One-man businesses are those that are owned and operated by a single individual, and while they offer several advantages such as full control and flexibility, they also come with some disadvantages. These disadvantages include unlimited liability, which means that the owner is personally responsible for any debts or legal issues that arise in the business. Additionally, the life of the business is limited to the life of the owner, meaning that the business may not be able to continue after the owner's death or retirement. Difficulty in raising additional capital is also a disadvantage of one-man businesses, as lenders and investors may be hesitant to invest in a business that is solely owned and operated by a single individual. However, personal control of the business is not a disadvantage, as it allows the owner to make all the decisions and maintain full control over the direction and operations of the business.

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To find the percentage of expenses over cost, we need to calculate the total expenses and subtract the cost from it. Then we divide the result by the cost and multiply by 100 to get the percentage. In this case, Ojo's cost for the bicycle was #20,000, and he spent an additional #5,000 on repairs. So his total expenses were #25,000. To find the percentage of expenses over cost, we use the formula: Percentage of expenses over cost = (Total expenses - Cost) / Cost x 100% Plugging in the numbers, we get: Percentage of expenses over cost = (25,000 - 20,000) / 20,000 x 100% = 5,000 / 20,000 x 100% = 0.25 x 100% = 25% Therefore, the percentage of expenses over cost is 25%.

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In a cooperative society, members are entitled to one vote, regardless of the number of shares they hold. A cooperative society is an organization that is owned and controlled by its members, who typically share a common interest or goal. Members of a cooperative society pool their resources together to achieve common goals, such as obtaining goods and services at lower costs, or selling their products at a better price. As a result, members of a cooperative society have equal ownership and control over the organization, and are entitled to equal voting rights. In contrast, in a public corporation or a limited company, voting rights are typically proportional to the number of shares held. This means that the more shares an individual owns, the more voting power they have. In a partnership, the partners may have different levels of control and decision-making power, depending on the terms of their agreement. Therefore, if you are looking for an organization where all members have equal voting rights, regardless of the number of shares they hold, a cooperative society may be the best option.

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The objects of the company must be stated in the articles of association. The objects clause defines the primary and ancillary objectives of the company and the activities it is authorized to carry out. This clause guides the directors and officers in the decision-making process by providing them with the company's scope of activities. It is also used to determine the company's capacity to enter into contracts, borrow money, and make investments. Other details such as the registered office address of the company, the method of issue and transfer of shares, and the statement that liabilities are limited are usually included in the articles of association but are not mandatory.

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The enterprise whose main objective is to provide the public with essential services is known as a "public corporation." Public corporations are created by the government or the state, and their primary goal is to provide essential services to the public, such as transportation, electricity, water, and telecommunications. These corporations are usually created to address a specific need or to ensure that essential services are provided to the public in a reliable and cost-effective manner. Public corporations are typically managed by a board of directors or trustees, who are appointed by the government, and are subject to government oversight and regulation. The profits generated by public corporations are typically reinvested in the business or used to provide additional services to the public, rather than being distributed to shareholders or owners, as is the case with private companies.

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The cost of goods sold is the cost that a seller incurred to produce or acquire the goods that were sold. In this scenario, the cost of goods sold would be the sum of the cost of the bicycle and the cost of repairs, which is #20,000 + #5,000 = #25,000. Therefore, the answer is #25,000.

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The main function of a thrift and credit cooperative society is to encourage members to save. A thrift and credit cooperative society is a type of financial institution that is owned and operated by its members. The primary goal of such societies is to promote savings among its members, and to provide access to credit and other financial services. By encouraging members to save, thrift and credit cooperative societies help to build a culture of financial responsibility and stability. Members can save small amounts of money regularly, which can then be used to access credit or other financial services. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals or groups who may not have access to traditional banking services, or who may not have the financial means to save on their own. In summary, the main function of a thrift and credit cooperative society is to encourage its members to save, with the goal of promoting financial stability and providing access to credit and other financial services.

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The selling of articles from place to place on foot is known as "itinerant trading." Itinerant traders are individuals who travel from one place to another, carrying their goods with them and selling them to customers as they go. They may sell a variety of goods, such as clothing, household items, food, or other products, and they typically rely on foot traffic or word of mouth to attract customers. Itinerant traders may set up temporary stalls or displays in public spaces, such as parks or street corners, or they may go door to door, offering their goods to residents. Itinerant trading has a long history and can be found in many parts of the world, and it is often used as a way for individuals to start their own business without needing a permanent storefront or large amounts of capital.

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A mortgage bank is primarily concerned with financing the acquisition of dwelling houses. A dwelling house is a place where people live, such as a house or apartment. Mortgage banks specialize in providing loans, called mortgages, to people who want to buy a house or property. The mortgage is secured by the property being purchased, which means that if the borrower fails to make the required payments, the mortgage bank has the right to take possession of the property and sell it to recover the outstanding balance on the loan. By providing financing for the acquisition of dwelling houses, mortgage banks help individuals and families achieve their dream of homeownership, which is an important goal for many people.

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The reason for international trade is comparative cost advantage. This means that different countries have different resources, skills, and technologies that give them a comparative advantage in producing certain goods or services. By specializing in the production of goods and services in which they have a comparative advantage, countries can trade with each other and achieve greater efficiency, lower costs, and higher output. In other words, countries can produce more of what they are good at and less of what they are not, and then trade the surplus with other countries to get what they need. This benefits all countries involved by increasing productivity, expanding markets, and fostering economic growth.

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Government bonds are not a source of funds for sole-proprietorship. This is because government bonds are a form of investment offered by the government, where investors lend money to the government and earn interest on it. Sole-proprietorship is a form of business owned and managed by an individual, and government bonds do not provide funds to start or run a sole-proprietorship business. On the other hand, personal savings, borrowing from friends and relatives, and borrowing from financial institutions are all common sources of funds for sole-proprietorship.

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(a) Five member-countries of the Niger Basin Commission (Niger Basin Authority)

1. Nigeria
2. Niger
3. Benin
4. Cameroon
5. Mali

(Others include Chad, Guinea, Burkina Faso and Cote d'Ivoire.)

(b) Five objectives of the Niger Basin Commission

1. Joint development of the River Niger basin: To promote co-operation among member states in developing the resources of the Niger river basin.
2. Harnessing of water resources: To harness the waters of the river for irrigation, hydro-electric power generation and water supply.
3. Development of navigation and transport: To improve inland navigation and transport along the river to boost trade among member states.
4. Promotion of agriculture and fisheries: To develop agriculture, fishing, forestry and animal husbandry within the basin.
5. Control of the river and environmental protection: To co-ordinate flood and drought control, prevent pollution, and ensure equitable use of the common water resources for the mutual benefit of member states.

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(a) What is production?

Production is the creation of goods and services to satisfy human wants. It covers all the activities involved in making goods and services available to consumers, from the extraction of raw materials to the final delivery of finished goods and services.

(b) Factors of production

1. Land: This refers to all the free gifts of nature used in production, such as the soil, forests, rivers, minerals and other natural resources. Its reward is rent.
2. Labour: This is the human effort, both physical and mental, applied in the production of goods and services. Its reward is wages or salary.
3. Capital: This refers to all man-made assets used to produce further goods and services, such as machines, tools, buildings and money set aside for business. Its reward is interest.

(c) Three functions of an entrepreneur

1. He organizes and combines the other factors of production (land, labour and capital) to produce goods and services.
2. He bears the risks and uncertainties of the business, since profit is not guaranteed.
3. He takes the major decisions of the business, such as what to produce, how, where and for whom to produce.

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(a) Five measures to solve balance of payments problems

1. Devaluation of the currency: Lowering the value of the home currency makes exports cheaper and imports dearer, thereby increasing exports and reducing imports.
2. Import restriction: Government can impose high tariffs, quotas, and outright bans on certain imports to cut down foreign spending.
3. Export promotion: Government can encourage exports through incentives, subsidies, and improved quality so as to earn more foreign exchange.
4. Deflationary (monetary and fiscal) policy: Reducing money supply and government spending, and raising interest rates and taxes, lowers domestic demand for imports.
5. Exchange control: Government can ration and control the use of foreign exchange so that it is spent only on essential imports; it may also borrow from the IMF and encourage foreign investment.

(b) Five disadvantages of international trade

1. Dumping of goods: Foreign producers may sell goods cheaply below cost, ruining home (infant) industries.
2. Over-dependence on foreign countries: A country may rely too heavily on others for essential goods, which is risky during war or crisis.
3. Unfavourable balance of payments: Excessive importation drains foreign reserves and creates balance of payments deficits.
4. Exhaustion of natural resources: Continuous export of raw materials can lead to the rapid depletion of a country's natural resources.
5. Importation of harmful and undesirable goods: Dangerous goods, and foreign tastes and cultures, may be imported to the detriment of home industries and society.

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Jamiu & Co. Ltd - year ended 31st March, 2006

(a) Cost of goods sold

= Opening stock + Purchases - Closing stock

= 3,000 + 7,000 - 2,000 = N8,000

(b) Net profit percentage

Gross profit = Sales - Cost of goods sold = 12,000 - 8,000 = N4,000

Total expenses = Wages + Transport + Electricity = 500 + 400 + 300 = N1,200

Net profit = Gross profit - Expenses = 4,000 - 1,200 = N2,800

\[ \text{Net profit \%} = \frac{\text{Net profit}}{\text{Sales}} \times 100 = \frac{2,800}{12,000} \times 100 = 23.33\% \]

(c) Rate of turnover

Average stock = (Opening stock + Closing stock) / 2 = (3,000 + 2,000) / 2 = N2,500

\[ \text{Rate of turnover} = \frac{\text{Cost of goods sold}}{\text{Average stock}} = \frac{8,000}{2,500} = 3.2 \text{ times} \]

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(a) Definition of commerce

Commerce is the branch of production that deals with the buying and selling of goods and services, together with all the aids and services that make trade possible, such as transport, banking, insurance, warehousing, advertising and communication. In short, commerce is trade and the aids to trade.

(b) Six functions of commerce in an economy

1. Distribution of goods and services: Commerce moves goods from producers to consumers through wholesalers and retailers, ensuring that goods reach the people who need them.
2. Bridging the gap between producers and consumers: Through trade and its aids, commerce removes the place, time, knowledge and finance gaps that separate producers from consumers.
3. Creation of employment: Commercial activities such as transport, banking, insurance and retailing provide jobs for many people, thereby raising incomes.
4. Provision of finance: Through banks and other financial institutions, commerce provides the capital and credit needed to run and expand business.
5. Facilitating specialization and large-scale production: By guaranteeing a market and moving output to distant buyers, commerce enables producers to specialize and produce on a large scale.
6. Raising the standard of living and promoting international trade: Commerce makes a wide variety of home and foreign goods available to consumers, satisfying wants and encouraging trade between nations.

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(a) What is a contract?

A contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more persons which creates rights and obligations that can be enforced in a court of law. It is an agreement supported by consideration and made with the intention of creating legal relations.

(b) Five elements of a contract

1. Offer - a definite proposal made by one party.
2. Acceptance - the unqualified agreement to the terms of the offer.
3. Consideration - something of value exchanged between the parties.
4. Intention to create legal relations - both parties must intend the agreement to be legally binding.
5. Capacity to contract - the parties must be legally competent (of full age, sound mind, and not disqualified by law). (Free consent and legality of purpose are also required.)

(c) Six conditions that could lead to the termination (discharge) of a contract

1. Performance: The contract ends when both parties fully carry out their obligations.
2. Agreement: The parties may mutually agree to bring the contract to an end.
3. Breach: When one party fails to perform his part, the injured party may treat the contract as ended and sue for damages.
4. Frustration (impossibility of performance): The contract ends when an unforeseen event makes performance impossible, for example destruction of the subject matter or a change in the law.
5. Lapse of time: A contract is discharged when the time fixed for its performance expires or the period allowed by the law of limitation passes.
6. Operation of law: The contract may end through death, bankruptcy, or where the subject matter becomes illegal.

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(a) What is marketing?

Marketing is the process of identifying, anticipating and satisfying customers' needs and wants profitably. It covers all the business activities involved in moving goods and services from the producer to the final consumer, including product planning, pricing, promotion and distribution.

(b) Five importance of marketing in an economy

1. Bridges the gap between producers and consumers: Marketing moves goods and services from where they are produced to where they are needed, satisfying consumer wants.
2. Creates employment: Marketing activities such as selling, advertising, transporting and warehousing provide jobs for many people.
3. Encourages large-scale production: By guaranteeing a market for output, marketing enables producers to specialize and produce on a large scale, lowering costs.
4. Raises the standard of living: Marketing makes a wide variety of goods and services available to consumers, giving them wider choice and improving welfare.
5. Provides information and stimulates demand: Through advertising and promotion, marketing informs consumers about products and creates and increases demand, which boosts sales and national income.

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(a) Four steps a customer takes to open a current account

1. Obtain and complete the account opening form: The customer collects the current account application form from the bank and fills in his personal details.
2. Provide references and required documents: He supplies two respectable referees who already operate accounts, together with passport photographs and means of identification.
3. Make an initial deposit: He pays in the minimum opening balance required by the bank as an initial deposit.
4. Complete a specimen signature card and receive account tools: He records his specimen signature on the mandate card, and after verification the bank opens the account and issues him a cheque book and pay-in slips.

(b) Six functions of commercial banks

1. Acceptance of deposits: They receive and keep money for customers in current, savings and fixed deposit accounts.
2. Granting of loans and overdrafts: They lend money to customers and allow overdraft facilities to help finance business and personal needs.
3. Provision of means of payment: They provide cheques, standing orders, credit transfers and electronic payment services for settling debts.
4. Safe-keeping of valuables: They keep customers' valuables and important documents in safe custody through their strong rooms and safe deposit boxes.
5. Agency and foreign exchange services: They act as agents for customers by paying and collecting money, buying and selling shares, and providing foreign exchange for international trade.
6. Provision of financial advice and other services: They give advice on investment, provide references, issue travellers' cheques and act as executors and trustees.

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(a) Definition of communication

Communication is the process of passing information, ideas, messages or instructions from one person or place (the sender) to another (the receiver) through a chosen medium, in a way that is clearly understood, and receiving feedback. In commerce it is the transmission of business information between traders, customers and other parties.

(b) Six functions of the post office

1. Collection and delivery of mail: The post office collects, sorts and delivers letters, parcels and printed matter within and outside the country.
2. Provision of money transfer services: It transfers money through postal orders, money orders and telegraphic money orders.
3. Operation of savings facilities: It runs the post office savings bank, where people can save and withdraw money.
4. Provision of telecommunication services: It provides telephone, telegram, and telex services for fast communication.
5. Agency services for government: It sells revenue stamps, collects licence fees (such as radio and television licences), and pays pensions on behalf of government.
6. Provision of private mail bags and post office boxes: It rents out post office boxes and private mail bags to individuals and firms for the safe receipt of their mail; it also provides express and registered mail services for valuable items.

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(a) Five features common to both public and private limited companies

1. Separate legal entity: Each is an artificial person in law, distinct from its owners, and can sue and be sued in its own name.
2. Limited liability: The liability of members is limited to the amount unpaid on the shares they hold.
3. Perpetual succession: The company continues to exist despite the death, insanity or withdrawal of any member.
4. Ownership by shareholders and management by directors: Both are owned by shareholders who contribute the capital but managed by a board of directors on their behalf.
5. Registration and legal documents: Both must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission and must file a Memorandum and Articles of Association before they can operate.

(b) Five provisions of a Memorandum of Association

1. Name clause: States the name of the company, ending with the word "Limited" or "Plc."
2. Registered office clause: States the location of the registered office or head office of the company.
3. Objects clause: States the aims, objectives and nature of business the company is set up to carry on.
4. Capital clause: States the amount of authorized (registered) capital and how it is divided into shares of fixed value.
5. Liability clause: States that the liability of the members is limited (to the value of their shares).

(A sixth provision, the Association or Declaration clause, states the willingness of the subscribers to form the company and take up shares.)