The correct answer is D. Depreciation.
Depreciation is an accounting concept that allows businesses to spread the cost of an asset over its useful life. It is not a cash outflow, as no money is actually paid out when an asset is depreciated. Instead, the depreciation expense is recorded on the income statement, which reduces taxable income. This can lead to a lower tax bill for the business.
Taxes, interest payments, and dividends are all cash outflows for a business. Taxes are paid to the government, interest payments are made to lenders, and dividends are paid to shareholders. These are all expenses that reduce the amount of cash that a business has available.
Depreciation is not a cash outflow because it does not involve the actual transfer of money. Instead, it is an accounting concept that allows businesses to spread the cost of an asset over its useful life.