Liquid investments might sound like expensive bottles of wine, or jet skis, but they’re actually financial investments that you can quickly convert to cash without taking a major hit in value. They’re ideal for both short-term and long-term financial planning.

When you’re checking out liquid investments, it’s important to consider your financial goals, risk tolerance, and timeframe. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Cash and cash equivalents

  • Cash and cash equivalents are the most liquid assets, which include physical cash, savings accounts, and short-term certificates of deposit (CDs).
  • These investments are ideal for emergency funds and for maintaining liquidity in your portfolio.
  • While they provide the least potential return, they are the safest and most readily available.

2. Money market accounts

  • Money market accounts offer a higher interest rate compared to regular savings accounts.
  • These accounts typically come with check-writing privileges and ATM access, adding to their liquidity.
  • Money market accounts are insured up to a certain limit, providing an extra layer of safety.

3. Treasury bills (T-bills)

  • T-Bills are short-term U.S. government securities with maturities ranging from a few days to one year.
  • They are considered one of the safest investments, as they are backed by the U.S. government.
  • T-Bills are highly liquid and can be easily bought and sold in the secondary market.

4. Certificates of deposit (CDs)

  • CDs are time deposits offered by banks with fixed terms, typically ranging from a few months to several years.
  • They often offer higher interest rates than regular savings accounts but require you to lock in your money for the specified term.
  • Early withdrawal may result in penalties, so it’s essential to carefully consider your time horizon.

5. Corporate bonds

  • Corporate bonds are debt securities issued by companies to raise capital.
  • They come in various maturities, making them suitable for both short-term and long-term investment goals.
  • Corporate bonds can be sold in the secondary market, providing liquidity for investors.

6. Municipal bonds

  • Municipal bonds are issued by state and local governments to fund public projects.
  • They offer tax advantages, as interest income is often exempt from federal and state income taxes.
  • Municipal bonds come in various maturities, and their liquidity depends on the demand in the secondary market.

7. Stocks

  • While stocks are generally considered long-term investments, they are highly liquid due to their active secondary market trading.
  • Investors can buy and sell stocks quickly to access cash, but it’s essential to be mindful of market volatility and potential price fluctuations.

8. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)

  • ETFs are investment funds that are traded on stock exchanges, similar to individual stocks.
  • They offer diversification across various assets, making them a liquid option for investors looking to spread their risk.
  • ETFs are available for a wide range of asset classes, including stocks, bonds, and commodities.

9. Mutual funds

  • Mutual funds pool money from multiple investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of securities.
  • While mutual funds may not be as liquid as individual stocks, they offer daily liquidity for investors who want to buy or sell shares.

10. Real estate investment trusts (REITs)

  • REITs are companies that invest in income-producing real estate properties, such as apartment buildings, shopping centers, and office complexes.
  • They provide liquidity through daily trading on stock exchanges and offer potential dividends and capital appreciation.

11. Precious metals

  • Precious metals like gold and silver are considered liquid investments due to their universal value and market demand.
  • Investors can buy and sell these metals easily through dealers, online platforms, or even physical purchases.
  • Cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, have gained popularity as digital assets with high liquidity.
  • They can be traded on various cryptocurrency exchanges, providing quick access to cash when needed.

The bottom line: top liquid investments

When you’re exploring liquid investments, think about your financial objectives, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Each of the investments mentioned above has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. The choice of liquid investments should align with your specific financial goals, whether that’s maintaining an emergency fund, building wealth over time, or generating income. Diversifying your portfolio with a mix of these assets can help you manage risk and enhance your financial security.


Remember that while liquid investments offer easy access to cash, they do not guarantee returns or protection against losses. A well-balanced and diversified portfolio, tailored to your financial goals, is the key to achieving financial success and securing your financial future. For more information about investing, check out our article, Investing 101.