What is the purpose of insurance?

The purpose of insurance is primarily to protect against financial loss. Insurance serves as a safety net that helps individuals and businesses manage risk effectively. When you purchase insurance, you are essentially transferring the potential financial burden of specific risks (such as accidents, illness, natural disasters, or theft) from yourself to the insurance company. This means that if an unfortunate event occurs, the insurance policy can provide compensation or coverage, thereby mitigating the impact of the loss on your finances.

For example, if someone has health insurance and they incur high medical expenses, their insurance policy can cover a significant portion of those costs, preventing financial hardship. Similarly, car insurance protects drivers from the financial consequences of an accident by covering repairs or liability claims. This function of insurance is critical in ensuring that individuals can recover and maintain financial stability after unexpected events.

In contrast, the other options focus on aspects that do not align with the fundamental purpose of insurance. Increasing investment returns and accumulating wealth relate more to financial planning and investment strategies, while enhancing spending capacity refers to managing disposable income rather than risk management. Thus, option B accurately reflects the core mission of insurance in providing a safeguard against the uncertainties of life.