What is the financial term for the difference between current assets and current liabilities?

The correct financial term for the difference between current assets and current liabilities is referred to as "working capital." While “circulating capital” is not the most standard term used in contemporary financial discussions, it can sometimes serve as a synonym for working capital, particularly in specific contexts or regions.

Working capital is crucial because it measures a company's short-term financial health and its efficiency in managing current assets and liabilities. A positive working capital indicates that a company has sufficient assets to cover its short-term liabilities, enabling it to fund its day-to-day operations effectively.

The other terms presented have distinct meanings. Net capital usually refers to the net worth or equity of a company after liabilities have been deducted, whereas accounts payable specifically refers to the obligations a company owes to suppliers and creditors. Operating margin pertains to the profitability of a company’s core business operations and does not represent the difference between current assets and current liabilities.