Definition
Risk refers to the measurable possibility of losing or not gaining value. It is typically associated with the chance that an outcome or investment will differ from the expected result. Unlike uncertainty, which cannot be measured, risk can often be quantified, allowing individuals and companies to evaluate and manage it effectively.
Types of Risk
Actuarial Risk
Actuarial Risk is the risk an insurance underwriter covers in exchange for premiums, exemplified by the risk of premature death.
Exchange Risk
Exchange Risk is the chance of loss on foreign currency exchange due to fluctuations in currency values.
Inflation Risk
Inflation Risk is the danger that the value of assets or income will be reduced as inflation decreases the value of a country’s currency.
Interest Rate Risk
Interest Rate Risk is the possibility that a fixed-rate debt instrument’s value will decline due to a rise in interest rates.
Inventory Risk
Inventory Risk is the possibility that price changes, obsolescence, or other factors will decrease the value of a company’s inventory.
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity Risk is the possibility that an investor will not be able to buy or sell a commodity or security quickly enough or in sufficient quantities because of limited buying or selling opportunities.
Political Risk
Political Risk is the possibility of nationals’ control or other unfavorable government actions that can affect the profitability or viability of enterprises.
Repayment (Credit) Risk
Repayment Risk or Credit Risk is the chance that a borrower or trade debtor will not repay an obligation as promised.
Risk of Principal
Risk of Principal is the chance that invested capital will drop in value.
Systemic Risk
Systemic Risk affects an entire business or industry, rather than just one company, due to interconnectedness and the broad impact of crises.
Underwriting Risk
Underwriting Risk is the risk taken by an investment banker that a new issue of securities purchased outright will not be bought by the public and/or that the market price will drop during the offering period.
Unsystemic Risk
Unsystemic Risk pertains to one-time occurrences that may affect a single property or business, such as a fire.
Examples of Risk
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Actuarial Risk Example:
- Life insurance policies embody actuarial risk wherein the insurer bears the risk of paying out significant amounts upon the policyholder’s premature death.
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Exchange Risk Example:
- A U.S. company doing business in Europe faces exchange risk when converting currencies due to fluctuating exchange rates.
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Inflation Risk Example:
- Retirees living on a fixed pension income face inflation risk if the cost of living increases, eroding the purchasing power of their income.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between risk and uncertainty?
Risk is a measurable possibility of an adverse outcome, whereas uncertainty refers to situations where outcomes are unpredictable, and probabilities cannot be assigned.
How can businesses manage risks?
Businesses can manage risks through diversification, hedging, insurance, implementing risk management policies, and continuous monitoring and assessment.
What is credit risk?
Credit risk is the possibility that a borrower will fail to meet obligations in accordance with agreed terms, leading to financial loss for the lender or credit issuer.
What is systemic risk in the financial sector?
Systemic risk in the financial sector refers to the risk of collapse of an entire financial system or entire market, potentially leading to a widespread crisis.
How does interest rate risk affect bondholders?
Interest rate risk affects bondholders negatively when interest rates rise, causing the value of existing bonds (with lower fixed rates) to decrease as new bonds are issued at higher rates.
Related Terms
Amount at Risk
Amount at Risk refers to the amount an insurer could lose on a single insurance contract.
At-Risk Rules
At-Risk Rules are tax laws that limit the deductions taxpayers can claim for business losses to the amount they have at risk in the business.
Assumption of Risk
Assumption of Risk is a legal principle in which an individual acknowledges and accepts the inherent risks involved in an activity.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk” by Peter L. Bernstein
- “Investment Risk Management” by H. Kent Baker and Greg Filbeck
- “Risk Management and Financial Institutions” by John C. Hull
- “The Flaw of Averages: Why We Underestimate Risk in the Face of Uncertainty” by Sam L. Savage
Fundamentals of Risk: Finance and Management Basics Quiz
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