Likwiditás

Likwiditás is a term that refers to the ease with which an asset can be converted into cash without significantly affecting its market price. In financial markets, liquidity describes how readily an asset can be bought or sold. Highly liquid assets are those that can be traded quickly and easily, such as stocks and bonds of large, actively traded companies, or major currencies. Conversely, illiquid assets are more difficult to sell quickly without a substantial price reduction. Examples of illiquid assets include real estate, fine art, or private equity investments.

The concept of liquidity is crucial for individuals, businesses, and financial institutions. For individuals, having sufficient liquidity ensures they can meet unexpected expenses or seize opportunities. For businesses, liquidity is essential for day-to-day operations, paying suppliers, and managing debt. Financial institutions, such as banks, rely heavily on maintaining adequate liquidity to meet depositor withdrawals and lending demands.

Liquidity can be assessed in various ways. Market liquidity refers to the ability to trade assets in a market without causing significant price fluctuations. Funding liquidity pertains to an entity's ability to meet its financial obligations as they come due. A lack of liquidity can lead to financial distress, as an entity may be forced to sell assets at unfavorable prices to raise cash, potentially leading to bankruptcy. Central banks often monitor and manage liquidity in the financial system to ensure stability and prevent crises.