Which of the following best describes the concept of limited liability in corporations?

Limited liability is a fundamental characteristic of corporations that provides a significant layer of protection for the personal assets of the owners, often referred to as shareholders. This means that if a corporation incurs debts or is sued, the personal assets of the shareholders—such as their homes and personal savings—are generally protected from being pursued for the corporation's liabilities.

This protection allows individuals to invest in a corporation without the risk of losing more than their initial investment in the company's stock. The separation between the corporate entity and its owners is crucial; the corporation itself is responsible for fulfilling its obligations and debts.

While complete immunity from lawsuits and a guarantee against financial loss might suggest some level of protection, they do not accurately reflect the reality of limited liability. Corporations can still face lawsuits, and shareholders can still see the value of their investments decline; however, they won’t be personally liable for the corporation's debts beyond their invested capital.