An Optimal Cash Conversion Cycle
International Research Journal of Finance and Economics. March (120), 13-22, 2014
12 Pages Posted: 14 Aug 2012 Last revised: 31 Dec 2017
Date Written: March 13, 2014
Abstract
The traditional link between the cash conversion cycle and the firm's profitability is that shortening the cash conversion cycle increases firm's profitability. On the other hand shortening the cash conversion cycle could harm the firm’s operations and reduce profitability. This could happen when taking actions to reduce the inventory conversion period, a firm could face inventory shortages; when reducing the receivable collection period a firm could lose its good credit customers; and when lengthening the payable deferral period a firm could harm its own credit reputation. However, identifying optimal levels of inventory, receivables, and payables where total holding and opportunities cost are minimized and recalculating the cash conversion cycle according to these optimal points provides more complete and accurate insights into the efficiency of working capital management. In this regard, we suggest an optimal cash conversion cycle as more accurate and comprehensive measure of working capital management.
Keywords: Working Capital Management, Optimal Cash Conversion Cycle, Cash Conversion Cycle, Receivable Collection Period, Inventory Conversion Period, Payable Deferral Period, Weighted Cash Conversion Cycle, Net Trade Cycle
JEL Classification: G30, G32, L25, O25
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation