What external factor might a business consider before determining the selling price of its products?

Determining the selling price of products involves various external factors that can significantly influence a business's pricing strategy. Economic conditions play a crucial role in this process. These conditions include factors such as inflation rates, consumer purchasing power, employment rates, and overall economic stability. When the economy is strong, consumers may be more willing to spend money, allowing businesses to set higher prices. Conversely, during economic downturns, consumers may become more budget-conscious, prompting businesses to lower prices to maintain sales volume.

By considering economic conditions, businesses can align their pricing strategies with market dynamics, ensuring competitiveness while maximizing profitability. This external factor shapes consumer behavior and demand, which are vital for setting prices effectively. In contrast, other choices, such as trade practices, desired profits, and company strategies, tend to be more internal or reliant on the company's specific goals and situations rather than external market forces.