Marketable Securities

Search Dictionary

Definition of 'Marketable Securities'

Marketable securities are a type of investment that can be easily bought and sold in the financial markets. They are typically short-term investments, with maturities of less than one year. Marketable securities are considered to be low-risk investments, as they are backed by the credit of the issuing company or government.

There are two main types of marketable securities: debt securities and equity securities. Debt securities are issued by companies or governments to raise money. They pay a fixed interest rate, and the principal is repaid at maturity. Equity securities represent ownership in a company. They do not pay a fixed interest rate, but they offer the potential for capital appreciation.

Marketable securities are a good investment for investors who are looking for a safe place to park their money. They are also a good investment for investors who are looking for a source of income. However, marketable securities do not offer the same potential for growth as other types of investments, such as stocks or real estate.

Here are some of the benefits of investing in marketable securities:

* Low risk: Marketable securities are considered to be low-risk investments, as they are backed by the credit of the issuing company or government.
* Liquidity: Marketable securities can be easily bought and sold in the financial markets. This makes them a good investment for investors who need to access their money quickly.
* Diversification: Marketable securities can be used to diversify a portfolio. This can help to reduce risk and improve returns.

Here are some of the risks associated with investing in marketable securities:

* Interest rate risk: The value of marketable securities can decline if interest rates rise. This is because the interest rate on marketable securities is fixed, so they will not keep pace with rising interest rates.
* Credit risk: The credit risk of a marketable security is the risk that the issuer will default on its payments. This can happen if the issuer experiences financial difficulties.
* Liquidity risk: Marketable securities can become illiquid if there is a lack of buyers in the market. This can make it difficult to sell them quickly and at a good price.

Overall, marketable securities are a good investment for investors who are looking for a safe place to park their money or who need a source of income. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with these investments before investing.

Do you have a trading or investing definition for our dictionary? Click the Create Definition link to add your own definition. You will earn 150 bonus reputation points for each definition that is accepted.

Is this definition wrong? Let us know by posting to the forum and we will correct it.