Characteristics of business are as follows: 

1. An economic activity: All business activities are economic activities and are done for the sole purpose of earning money. 

2. Production and procurement of goods and services: A business activity involves production or procurement of goods and services. A manufacturer is involved in production, while a shopkeeper is involved in procurement. 

3. Sale and exchange of goods and services for the satisfaction of human needs: Sale and exchange of goods and services is done to satisfy human needs. 

4. Dealing in goods and services on a regular basis: One time dealing in goods or services cannot be termed as a business. The business should happen on a regular basis. 

5. Profit earning: Profit earning is the fundamental motive of doing a business. Other objectives cannot be attained without it. 

6. Uncertainty of returns: Returns can never be certain in business activity. This happens because of external factors which are outside the control of the business organization. 

7. Element of risk: An element of risk is always present in business activity.