How is net income expressed on a per-share basis?

Net income expressed on a per-share basis refers to the earnings attributable to each share of common stock outstanding. This measure is called Earnings Per Share (EPS). EPS is calculated by dividing the net income of a company by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during a specific period. This metric provides investors with a way to gauge the profitability of a company in relation to its shares, making it easier to compare financial performance across different companies or time periods.

Understanding EPS is crucial for evaluating a company's financial health and making investment decisions, as it reflects the company's ability to generate profit for its shareholders. In contrast, dividends per share, gross profit margin, and operating income serve different purposes and are not specifically focused on net income on a per-share basis.