[Verse 1] In government accounting there are two different ways To measure what we have and what we owe each day Net debt model looks at cash and things we can convert Financial resources only, that's what we assert [Verse 2] Net assets model takes a broader financial view Economic resources, all the value coming through Capital assets included, infrastructure too Shows the total picture of what belongs to you [Chorus] Net debt for the flow, net assets for the whole Financial versus economic, each one plays a role Current operations need the debt model to show Long term stewardship needs assets head to toe Remember the divide, financial versus wide Economic resources give the comprehensive side [Verse 3] When you're budgeting and tracking yearly cash in hand Net debt model helps you understand what's planned Short term liquidity and current year control Financial resources serve the operating goal [Verse 4] For the statement of position showing total worth Net assets model brings all resources to earth Depreciation matters, capital's full cost Shows if public value's gained or if it's lost [Chorus] Net debt for the flow, net assets for the whole Financial versus economic, each one plays a role Current operations need the debt model to show Long term stewardship needs assets head to toe Remember the divide, financial versus wide Economic resources give the comprehensive side [Bridge] Same organization, different lens to see Financial for budgets, economic for legacy Both models matter in the public sector space Each one serves its purpose in the proper place [Chorus] Net debt for the flow, net assets for the whole Financial versus economic, each one plays a role Current operations need the debt model to show Long term stewardship needs assets head to toe Remember the divide, financial versus wide Economic resources give the comprehensive side [Outro] Two models working together tell the story true Financial and economic, both perspectives due
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