Investicija

Investicija, or investment, is the act of allocating resources—most commonly money but also time or other assets—with the expectation of obtaining future benefits. Investments can take many forms, including financial assets such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and derivatives, as well as real assets such as buildings, machines, or infrastructure projects. They may involve direct investment, where capital is placed in a specific enterprise, or indirect investment through pooled vehicles or markets.

Investments are characterized by a trade-off between risk and return and by a time horizon. Expected returns compensate investors for uncertainty and for tying up resources over time. Diversification—spreading exposure across assets and markets—reduces risk. The concept of the time value of money means that future cash flows are discounted to present value to assess value today. Common methods to evaluate investments include net present value, internal rate of return, and payback period, though these tools rely on estimates of cash flows, risk, and discount rates.

Investments play a central role in economies by funding capital formation, enabling firms to expand, innovate, and hire. They influence prices, liquidity, and financial stability. Risks include market volatility, credit risk, liquidity risk, and regulatory or political risk. Transparent information, clear rights, and enforcement of contracts help markets function efficiently.