In SWOT Analysis, which category represents external factors that could harm the business?

• A. Weaknesses
• B. Strengths
• C. Opportunities
• D. Threats

Answer: (D)

In SWOT analysis, threats are the external factors that could harm the business. These come from outside the organization and represent negative conditions that online the market, competition, regulations, or broader environment could create. Examples include new competitors entering the market, changes in laws or tax policy, economic downturns, supply chain disruptions, or shifts in consumer preferences that reduce demand.

This category is distinct from opportunities, which are external but favorable conditions the company could take advantage of, and from strengths and weaknesses, which are internal factors reflecting what the business does well or where it struggles. So the threat category specifically targets external risks that could threaten performance or achievement of goals.