Collateral Ratio
A collateral ratio is the mathematical relationship between the value of assets deposited by a borrower and the value of the debt they have borrowed against those assets. It serves as a fundamental risk management metric in lending protocols, ensuring that lenders are protected against potential borrower default.
If the value of the collateral falls relative to the debt, the ratio decreases, moving the position closer to a liquidation threshold. Protocols set minimum collateral ratios to maintain a buffer for price volatility and market fluctuations.
Borrowers must actively monitor this ratio to avoid having their assets forcibly sold to repay the debt. A higher ratio indicates a more conservative, safer position, while a lower ratio indicates higher leverage and increased risk.