Which factor could potentially strain a company's liquidity?

High dividend payouts can strain a company's liquidity because they represent a direct cash outflow from the business. When a company pays dividends, it distributes a portion of its earnings to shareholders, which reduces the cash available for other operational needs. This can be particularly concerning if the dividend payments exceed the company's cash flow generated from its operations.

In scenarios where cash reserves are limited or when a business needs to finance growth, high dividend payouts can limit the funds available for reinvestment into the company or for covering short-term liabilities. While dividend payments can be a signal of financial health, overly generous payouts relative to cash flow can lead to liquidity issues, making it challenging for the company to meet its obligations, especially if unexpected expenses arise or if there is a downturn in sales.