Plain-English definitions, reviewed by an independent investor

Quick Ratio

The quick ratio is a stricter solvency test that excludes inventory from current assets.

The quick ratio is a stricter solvency test that excludes inventory from current assets.

Quick Ratio = (Current Assets − Inventory) ÷ Current Liabilities

Why it matters

It asks whether you could pay bills with cash and receivables alone.

Common confusion

For firms with slow inventory, quick is the honest number.

Definitions reviewed by the Investing Glossary editorial team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why drop inventory?

Inventory may not sell fast or at full price in a pinch.

Higher or lower than current?

Always lower or equal, since it removes a current asset.

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