The correct option is Stronger security posture and improved operational efficiency.

Obtaining authorization beyond merely meeting compliance requirements centers on risk based decision making and validated controls. Authorization involves formal assessment and ongoing monitoring which leads to a demonstrably stronger security posture and it encourages process improvements and automation that improve operational efficiency.

Lower recurring expenditures on IT infrastructure is incorrect because authorization work often requires upfront and ongoing investment in controls governance and monitoring. Cost reductions are not the primary or guaranteed outcome of seeking authorization beyond compliance.

Greater operational complexity and process overhead is incorrect because this describes a possible short term trade off rather than a main advantage. The intent of authorization beyond compliance is to standardize and streamline security practices, which usually reduces friction over time.

Higher stakeholder confidence and business credibility is incorrect as the main advantage because it is typically a secondary benefit. Improved confidence and credibility follow from a stronger security posture and more efficient operations, but they are not the fundamental operational gain that authorization delivers.

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