Which option best defines a company's level of risk?

A company's level of risk is best defined as the chance that an uncertain occurrence will have a negative impact. This definition encapsulates the overarching concept of risk, which is fundamentally tied to uncertainty and its potential consequences on the company's performance.

Risk is inherently about dealing with unknowns and their potential effects. In the context of investing and company operations, risk involves considering events that could adversely affect profitability, operational capabilities, or market position. Therefore, defining risk in terms of the chance of a negative impact accurately captures the essence of what risk entails—it's about the exposure to situations where negative outcomes might arise, thus affecting the company's success.

In contrast, other options may reference aspects of risk but do not fully encompass its comprehensive nature. For example, references to profitability or losses from uncontrollable events capture specific dimensions but do not articulate the broader concept of uncertainty and its potential negative effects. Defining risk purely in terms of maximum loss would not consider the broader range of risks that can impact a company, such as reputation, operational risks, or market fluctuations. Thus, the formulation provided in the correct definition is the most holistic understanding of a company’s level of risk.