Working capital management: Difference between revisions
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Firms can increase their financial efficiency by minimising the length of time this cycle takes. A firm that reduces its | Firms can increase their financial efficiency by minimising the length of time this cycle takes. | ||
A firm that reduces its working capital cycle will reduce its working capital levels. | |||
However, there are practical, operational and commercial limitations on how low working capital levels can fall without adversely affecting operations and relationships. | However, there are practical, operational and commercial limitations on how low working capital levels can fall without adversely affecting operations and relationships. | ||
As a result, the management of working capital is essentially a compromise between levels high enough for smooth commercial operation and levels low enough to be financially efficient. | As a result, the management of working capital is essentially a compromise between levels high enough for smooth commercial operation and safeguarding reputation, and levels low enough to be financially efficient. | ||
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* [[CertICM]] | * [[CertICM]] | ||
* [[Lock-up]] | * [[Lock-up]] | ||
* [[Reputational risk]] | |||
* [[Working capital]] | * [[Working capital]] | ||
* [[Working capital cycle]] | |||
Revision as of 09:29, 20 November 2019
(WCM).
Working capital operates as a continuous cycle.
At its simplest, a creditor provides stock, the stock is then sold on credit, creating a debtor.
In due course, the debtor pays, thus providing the firm with cash resources which are then used to pay the creditor and the surplus cash is retained in the firm.
Firms can increase their financial efficiency by minimising the length of time this cycle takes.
A firm that reduces its working capital cycle will reduce its working capital levels.
However, there are practical, operational and commercial limitations on how low working capital levels can fall without adversely affecting operations and relationships.
As a result, the management of working capital is essentially a compromise between levels high enough for smooth commercial operation and safeguarding reputation, and levels low enough to be financially efficient.
See also
Other links
The cash conversion cycle, The Treasurer, Oct 2014
Unlocking the value, The Treasurer, July 2014
Extending accounts payable is seen as vital, The Treasurer, Web exclusive
