Solution
Option 1 -> Preparing annual reports is a reporting and disclosure activity, not the basic requirement of financial planning.
Option 2 -> Forecasting financial needs involves estimating future fund requirements and ensuring adequate availability of funds at the right time, which is the core purpose of financial planning.
Option 3 -> Auditing accounts is a verification and control function performed after transactions occur, not a planning activity.
Option 4 -> Managing inventories is an operational management function, not specifically related to the basic requirement of financial planning.
Hence, Option 2: Forecast financial needs to ensure availability of funds -> Financial planning fundamentally involves estimating future financial requirements, determining sources of funds, and ensuring that adequate funds are available when needed to meet business objectives and operations -> correct