What is the action of selling or liquidating an asset known as?

The action of selling or liquidating an asset is known as divestiture. This term refers specifically to the process where an individual or a company disposes of assets, which can include selling, trading, or otherwise liquidating them. Divestiture often occurs as a strategic decision to focus on core business areas, raise capital, or respond to regulatory demands.

In contrast, the other terms have distinct meanings. Acquisition refers to the process of obtaining control of another company or asset, retention implies keeping or maintaining ownership of an asset, and reinvestment indicates putting profits back into the business to enhance growth. Each of these actions is associated with different strategic considerations, highlighting the specific intent behind divestiture as a means of shedding non-essential or underperforming assets.