What term describes the lower of a company's assets or the aggregate par value of issued shares?

The correct term for the lower of a company's assets or the aggregate par value of issued shares is "Net worth." Net worth represents the ownership interest in a company, calculated as total assets minus total liabilities. It essentially reflects the residual value of the company after all debts have been paid.

In more detail, net worth can be viewed as a company's equity, where it represents the total value that shareholders would receive if the company were to liquidate its assets and pay off its liabilities. It is a crucial indicator of the financial position of a company, showing its overall health and stability.

While other terms like "equity capital" and "retained earnings" provide insights into the financial aspects of a business, they are not specifically defined as the lower of assets or par value of shares. "Equity capital" refers to funds raised by a company in exchange for ownership interests, while "retained earnings" indicates the cumulative profits that have been reinvested in the business rather than distributed as dividends.

Thus, net worth correctly describes the relationship between a company's assets and liabilities in the context of ownership and financial viability.