What are 'non-current assets'?

Non-current assets are defined as long-term investments that are not expected to be converted into cash within the near future, typically beyond one year. They include items such as property, plant and equipment, intangible assets like patents and trademarks, and long-term investments in other companies. These assets are essential for a business as they are used over time to generate revenues and support the company's operations, reflecting a long-term commitment to the growth and stability of the business.

The other choices do not fit this definition. Assets expected to be turned into cash within a year are classified as current assets, while short-term investments with quick returns also align with the current asset category. Lastly, assets that fluctuate in value regularly may refer to volatile investments such as stocks, but they do not specifically describe the nature of non-current assets, which are stable and used over a longer period.