The correct answer is: A. Future economic benefits for the business
An asset is a resource controlled by the entity as a result of past events and from which future economic benefits are expected to flow to the entity.
Option B is incorrect because an asset does not necessarily possess all kinds of benefits for the business. For example, an asset that is not used by the business may not provide any benefits.
Option C is incorrect because an asset is not an expense. An expense is a cost incurred in the course of generating revenue.
Option D is incorrect because an asset does not necessarily have merits and demerits. A merit is a quality that makes something good or desirable, while a demerit is a quality that makes something bad or undesirable. An asset may have both merits and demerits, but it is not necessary for it to have either.