What type of assets does a company typically report as intangible?

Intangible assets are non-physical assets that have value because of the legal rights and privileges they confer to a business. Common examples of intangible assets include patents, trademarks, copyrights, and goodwill. Patents provide businesses with exclusive rights to manufacture and sell inventions for a specific period, while trademarks protect brand names and logos that distinguish goods and services in the marketplace. These assets are crucial for a company's competitive position and usually appear on the balance sheet as a significant component of its overall valuation.

In contrast, real estate and inventory are tangible assets, as they have a physical presence and can be seen or touched. Cash and cash equivalents represent liquid assets and are also considered tangible. Equipment and machinery are physical items used in the production of goods or services, thus categorizing them as tangible assets as well. Therefore, patents and trademarks are the most definitive examples of intangible assets, highlighting their unique role in a company's operations and strategic planning.