What do external audits primarily help businesses achieve?

External audits primarily help businesses achieve verification of compliance and accuracy of financial statements by providing an objective examination of financial records and internal controls. This process ensures that the financial statements are presented fairly and adhere to accounting standards and relevant regulations.

The involvement of external auditors enhances the credibility of the financial reports, which can reassure stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and creditors, about the integrity of the financial information being reported. This verification process is vital for businesses to build trust and maintain transparency, which are key components in attracting investment and sustaining operations.

The other options do not align with the primary purpose of external audits. Increased employee productivity and customer satisfaction are influenced by various operational and strategic activities within the business, but are not direct outcomes of an audit. Similarly, while the purchase of new equipment may arise from business decisions made following an audit, it is not the focus of what an external audit aims to accomplish.