Quick Ratio

Measuring the liquidity of a company. Explanation of Quick Ratio.

What is the Quick Ratio? Definition

The Quick Ratio method is a model for measuring the liquidity of a company. It is calculated by taking all assets which are quickly convertible into cash, and to divide the result by all current liabilities. It specifically excludes inventory. It is an indicator of the extent to which a company can pay current liabilities without having to rely on the sale of inventory.

Typically, a Quick Ratio of 1:1 or higher is good, and indicates a company does not have to rely on the sale of inventory to pay the bills.

Calculation of the Quick Ratio. Formula

For the Quick Ratio formula, see the picture on the right.

This ratio is also known as the Acid-test Ratio.

A thing to remember when we use the Quick Ratio is that this model ignores timing of both cash received and cash paid out.

Take the example of a company with no bills due today, but lots of bills which are due tomorrow. This company may show a good Quick Ratio, but can not be considered as having a good liquidity.

Book: Steven M. Bragg - Business Ratios and Formulas : A Comprehensive Guide -

Book: Ciaran Walsh - Key Management Ratios -

Quick Ratio Forum

Recent User Comments

    			 
  			   Kenneth - US
  	       
  		     Quick Ratio over Time
  	  		 "Often most interesting is to compare the way in which the quick or acid-test ratio develops over time. It's harder to manipulate by bad guys, and even a modest decline in this quick ratio over a period of time may indicate potential problems, and is certainly an indication to look for reasons."
  			   
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