Which of the following is the BEST description of the goal of the financial manager in a corporation where shares are publicly traded?

A) Maximize sales.
B) Maximize profits.
C) Avoid financial distress.
D) Maintain steady earnings growth.
E) Maximize the current value per share of the existing stock.

Financial Manager

A professional responsible for managing a company's financial planning and operations, including investment decisions, capital structure, and day-to-day financial activities.

Publicly Traded

A term describing a company that has issued securities through an initial public offering and which are traded on at least one stock exchange.

Current Value

The present worth of an asset or investment, which can fluctuate over time due to market dynamics and conditions.