The word "skims top" is spelled using the English alphabet, but it can also be represented using IPA phonetic transcription. In IPA, the word would be transcribed as /skɪmz tɒp/. The first syllable, "skims," is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a voiced "m" and a voiceless "s." The second syllable, "top," is pronounced with an unvoiced "t," followed by a rounded "o" and a voiceless "p." Together, these sounds create the commonly used phrase "skims top."
The term "skims top" refers to a financial practice or transaction where funds or profits are taken from the highest or most profitable part of a business or investment portfolio. It typically involves the extraction of a portion of revenue, assets, or income from a company's top-performing units or products.
In corporate contexts, "skims top" can describe the act of diverting funds or profits from successful divisions or subsidiaries to support struggling areas or to provide personal gain to individuals in positions of power within the organization.
In investment settings, "skims top" may refer to the practice of taking a percentage of the profits earned from high-performing investments, often by investment managers or brokers, before distributing the remaining returns to investors. This can occur through hidden fees, excessive commissions, or other non-transparent mechanisms, benefiting the financial institution or brokers potentially at the expense of investors.
The term can also be used more broadly to describe any situation where someone selectively extracts the best parts or benefits from a larger entity or system, leaving the less profitable or advantageous aspects for others.
However, it is important to note that "skims top" typically carries a negative connotation, suggesting unethical or exploitative practices. It implies a form of unjust enrichment or preferential treatment, as the act disproportionately benefits a select few while potentially disadvantaging others.
The phrase "skims top" does not have a specific etymology as it seems to be a combination of two separate words or concepts. However, "skims" is a verb that means to remove or take off the top layer of something, implying a superficial examination. On the other hand, "top" refers to the highest or uppermost part of something. Together, "skims top" might mean quickly glancing over or lightly examining the most important or prominent aspects of a subject or situation.