Indirect financial distress costs may include all EXCEPT:

Indirect financial distress costs are expenses that arise indirectly from financial difficulties a company may face, as opposed to direct costs like bankruptcy fees or legal costs. These costs can significantly impact a company's operational efficiency and long-term viability.

Fire sales of assets occur when a company sells its assets at a reduced price due to operational distress, resulting in a significant loss in value. This is a clear indirect financial distress cost because it reflects a forced situation where the company cannot maintain its normal asset values.

Loss of suppliers can happen when a company is in financial distress, as suppliers may view the company as a higher risk and could demand cash upfront or even terminate contracts. This disruption can lead to increased costs and operational delays, thereby contributing to the overall distress costs.

Loss of valuable employees is also considered an indirect cost because key employees may seek other employment opportunities if they perceive instability or lack of confidence in the company's future. The departure of skilled employees can disrupt operations and lead to increased training costs for new hires.

In contrast, the increase in employee benefits does not fit the definition of indirect financial distress costs. Typically, financial distress would lead to cost-cutting measures rather than increasing benefits, as companies facing such challenges often look to minimize expenses. Increasing employee benefits does not align with the