Which ratio measures the relationship of quick assets to current liabilities?

The ratio that measures the relationship of quick assets to current liabilities is the quick ratio. This financial metric focuses on assessing the ability of a company to meet its short-term obligations without relying on the sale of inventory, which is considered a less liquid asset. Quick assets typically include cash, cash equivalents, and receivables, all of which can be quickly converted into cash to cover current liabilities.

The quick ratio is a more stringent measure of liquidity compared to the current ratio since it excludes inventory from the calculation. This is essential for businesses where inventory may not be quickly liquidated or where inventory levels fluctuate significantly. The quick ratio provides a clearer picture of a company's short-term financial health, especially in industries where inventory turnover is slow.

In contrast, the current ratio includes all current assets, giving a broader view of liquidity but potentially overstating a company's immediate financial position if it relies heavily on inventory. The other ratios mentioned, such as the debt ratio and operating ratio, pertain to different aspects of financial analysis, such as leverage and operational efficiency, and are not focused on the instant liquidity of the firm.