What is the primary consequence of a liquidity crisis for businesses?

The primary consequence of a liquidity crisis for businesses is the inability to meet financial obligations. During a liquidity crisis, a company faces a significant shortage of cash or liquid assets to pay its short-term debts and obligations. This situation can arise due to various factors, such as reduced sales, increased costs, or unexpected financial challenges.

When a business cannot fulfill its financial commitments, it may struggle to pay suppliers, employees, or loan repayments, leading to a loss of trust among stakeholders, potential lawsuits, or even insolvency. The effects of a liquidity crisis can ripple through the organization, causing disruptions in operations and diminishing overall business viability if not addressed swiftly.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the typical outcomes of a liquidity crisis. Instead of improving credit ratings or increasing profit margins, which are signs of financial health, a liquidity crisis indicates distress and challenges in managing cash flow.