What term is used for goods purchased for resale at a profit?

The correct term for goods purchased for resale at a profit is "merchandise." This term specifically refers to items that a business buys with the intention of selling them to customers, typically in a retail context. Merchandise is a central component of retail operations, as it represents the products that generate revenue when sold.

While "inventory" is another term that refers to the total amount of goods available for sale at any given time, it encompasses not only merchandise on hand but also items that might not yet be for sale or that are in transit. Therefore, while related, "inventory" is a broader term without the specific implication of being ready for resale.

"Assets" encompasses all resources owned by a business that have economic value, including cash, property, equipment, and inventory, but it does not specifically highlight the focus on goods intended for resale.

"Supplies" generally refer to items that support the business's operations but are not meant for resale, such as office supplies or maintenance materials.

Hence, "merchandise" is the most precise term for goods bought specifically for the purpose of resale to generate profit.