Likviditeti

Likviditeti refers to the ease with which an asset can be converted into cash without affecting its market price. It is a crucial concept in finance, impacting individuals, businesses, and entire markets. High liquidity means an asset can be sold quickly and for its approximate current value. Examples of highly liquid assets include cash itself, money market accounts, and actively traded stocks on major exchanges. Conversely, illiquid assets are difficult to sell quickly or may require a significant price reduction to find a buyer. Real estate, fine art, and private equity are often considered less liquid.

The level of liquidity is influenced by several factors, including the number of buyers and sellers, the volume of trading activity, and the standardization of the asset. Markets with high liquidity are generally more efficient, as prices reflect information more rapidly and transactions are easier to execute. For businesses, maintaining adequate liquidity is essential for meeting short-term obligations, such as payroll and supplier payments. Insufficient liquidity can lead to financial distress or even bankruptcy. For investors, understanding the liquidity of an asset helps in assessing risk and potential returns. They may accept lower returns for highly liquid assets due to the reduced risk of being unable to access their funds when needed. Central banks also monitor liquidity in the financial system to ensure its stability and smooth functioning.