Loan to Value Ratios
Loan to Value Ratios represent the relationship between the value of a loan and the value of the collateral backing it, expressed as a percentage. This metric is a fundamental tool for assessing the riskiness of a position or a protocol's overall portfolio.
A higher LTV ratio implies greater leverage and, consequently, higher risk of liquidation. Protocols set maximum LTV limits to ensure that even in market downturns, the collateral value remains sufficient to cover the debt.
These ratios are dynamic and must be monitored closely, especially for assets with high historical volatility. In decentralized finance, LTV ratios are the primary lever for managing individual user risk.
They are essential for both borrowers and lenders to understand their exposure to market movements. Effective management of these ratios prevents the accumulation of under-collateralized debt.