All businesses needs profits to remain viable, and _____ is an essential element

• Protocol
• Embezzlement
• Retaliation
• growth

growth

The correct answer is "growth."

The answer is "growth." Growth is an essential element for businesses to remain viable. It refers to the expansion and increasing profitability of a business over time. To understand this, let's break down the other options:

1. Protocol: While protocols may be important for a business to operate smoothly and efficiently, they alone cannot ensure profitability or viability.

2. Embezzlement: Embezzlement is a criminal act of misappropriating funds or assets within a company. It is illegal and detrimental to the viability and reputation of a business.

3. Retaliation: Retaliation refers to an act of revenge or retaliation against someone. While maintaining a positive work environment is crucial, retaliation does not contribute directly to a business's financial viability.

So, out of the provided options, "growth" is the only option that aligns with the requirement of businesses needing profits to remain viable. Business growth involves increasing sales, expanding the customer base, diversifying product or service offerings, entering new markets, and optimizing operations to generate more revenue and profits.