What is "bankruptcy"?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that provides individuals and companies with a way to seek relief from debts that they are unable to repay. This process allows debtors to address their financial obligations through various forms, including liquidation of assets or restructuring of debts, depending on the type of bankruptcy filed. This legal framework is designed to help debtors regain financial stability while also ensuring that creditors have a fair chance to recoup as much of the owed money as possible.

The other options do not accurately describe bankruptcy. For instance, while liquidating assets can occur within the bankruptcy process, it is not solely a method to profit from asset liquidation. Additionally, bankruptcy is not a punishment for financial fraud; rather, it serves as a tool for debt relief and does not imply wrongdoing. Lastly, it is not a governmental program to grant loans, as bankruptcy specifically addresses the relief of debts, not the provision of new financial assistance.