What does 'transfer pricing' refer to?

Transfer pricing specifically refers to the price charged for goods, services, or intangible assets that are transferred between divisions or subsidiaries within the same company. This pricing method is important for internal financial reporting as well as tax purposes, where different jurisdictions may apply different tax rates. By setting appropriate transfer prices, companies ensure that they accurately allocate revenue and expenses among their various divisions, which can impact performance evaluations, tax obligations, and overall profitability.

In contrast, the other options focus on scenarios outside the context of internal transactions. For instance, the price charged for goods sold to external customers pertains to the company’s external sales strategy rather than internal divisions. The overall pricing strategy of a business is a broader concept that encompasses various pricing tactics for external sales, not limited to the inter-divisional context that transfer pricing covers. Lastly, the discounted rate offered to loyal customers is a promotional or customer relationship strategy that does not relate to the concept of transfer pricing at all. Thus, the distinguishing factor of option B makes it the correct definition of transfer pricing.