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Accounting · Analysis & interpretation

Liquidity ratios

CIE 04521 min read

Liquidity ratios

Liquidity ratios measure the ability of a business to turn its assets into cash.

RatioFormulaNotes
Current ratioCurrent assets : Current liabilitiesThe ability to meet current liabilities when they fall due. Improve: invest more, obtain long-term loans.
Liquid (acid test) ratio(Current assets − Inventory) : Current liabilitiesCompares assets that are (or quickly become) cash with the liabilities due for repayment.
Rate of inventory turnoverCost of sales ÷ Average inventoryHow many times a year the business sells and replaces its inventory. Improve: boost sales with discounts or new marketing.
Trade receivables turnoverTrade receivables ÷ Sales × 365 (days)The average time credit customers take to pay. Improve: better credit control, offer cash discounts.
Trade payables turnoverTrade payables ÷ Purchases × 365 (days)The average time taken to pay credit suppliers.

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