The correct answer is A. Real estate.
Real estate is the most common type of collateral used for short-term loans. This is because real estate is a tangible asset that is easy to value and sell. Additionally, real estate is often seen as a safe investment, which makes it attractive to lenders.
Plant and machinery is another type of collateral that can be used for short-term loans. However, plant and machinery is less common than real estate because it is more difficult to value and sell. Additionally, plant and machinery is often seen as a riskier investment than real estate.
Stock of goods is not typically used as collateral for short-term loans. This is because stock of goods is a relatively illiquid asset. Additionally, stock of goods is often seen as a risky investment.
Equity share capital is not typically used as collateral for short-term loans. This is because equity share capital is a risky investment. Additionally, equity share capital is not a tangible asset, which makes it difficult to value and sell.
In conclusion, the most common type of collateral used for short-term loans is real estate. This is because real estate is a tangible asset that is easy to value and sell. Additionally, real estate is often seen as a safe investment, which makes it attractive to lenders.