Which financial statement shows a company’s profitability over a certain period?

The income statement is the financial statement that displays a company’s profitability over a specific period. It provides a summarized view of revenues, expenses, and ultimately the net income or loss for that period. By detailing how much money the company earned and what it spent, it offers insights into financial performance and operational efficiency.

The balance sheet, in contrast, presents a snapshot of the company's assets, liabilities, and equity at a particular point in time, rather than over a period. It doesn't show profitability but rather the financial position of the company.

The statement of cash flows focuses on the cash inflows and outflows from operating, investing, and financing activities, giving insights into cash management rather than profitability.

The statement of changes in owners' equity tracks changes in the equity section of the balance sheet over a specific period, detailing items like retained earnings but still not directly indicating profitability.

Overall, the income statement is uniquely designed to highlight a company’s profitability activities over a defined time frame, making it the correct choice.