Which type of investment typically offers lower risk and higher liquidity?

Cash equivalents typically offer lower risk and higher liquidity compared to other types of investments. Cash equivalents include assets like Treasury bills, money market funds, and short-term government bonds, which can be quickly converted into cash with minimal price fluctuation. This high liquidity means that investors can access their funds when needed without significant delay or loss of value.

In contrast, stocks can experience higher volatility, making them riskier, and may take time to sell at the desired price. Real estate usually involves significant transaction costs and can take longer to sell, which reduces liquidity. Long-term bonds can also carry interest rate risk, which can affect their market value, making them less liquid than cash equivalents in times of market fluctuation. Overall, cash equivalents are preferred for those seeking a safe, liquid investment option.