Definition and Examples of Systematic Risk

In risk management, systematic risk refers to the risk factors that affect financial markets as a whole, lowering stock returns and asset liquidity. Discover the various types of systematic risks.

 

What Is Systematic Risk?

Systematic risk, also known as market risk or non-diversifiable risk, refers to macroeconomic factors that have a seismic impact on business finances. These broader business risks have a large impact on the entire market and can have a significant impact on consumers, the stock market, and supply and demand stability. Such financial risks cannot be controlled or mitigated by businesses. A diversified portfolio can help businesses reduce risk, but significant systemic risks, such as weather events and war, can have a significant impact on various asset classes.

 

Systematic Risk vs. Unsystematic Risk

Systematic and unsystematic risks both speak to business volatility, but in different ways. Systematic risks are caused by external factors such as recession and inflation risks. These economic factors have an impact on the overall market, and all businesses are affected. When such risks exist, stock prices and real estate values will fall as a whole, and investment portfolios will suffer. These dangers cannot be avoided and affect all industries.

Internal factors that may pose risks to specific industries are referred to as unsystematic risk. Unsystematic risks, also known as specific risks, cause individual stocks to fall rather than affecting the entire market segment. Unsystematic risks include labor strikes, late supply deliveries, and other microeconomic factors unrelated to the market as a whole.

 

3 Types of Systematic Risk

Each type of risk necessitates a strategy for mitigating business fluctuations.

1. Interest rate risk: Changing interest rates can have a significant impact on fixed-income securities, such as bond and security prices. Investors will withdraw assets from fixed-income securities as interest rates rise.

2. Market risk: When the market is volatile, investors are less likely to buy stocks or move money around as easily. Even when investing in more successful companies, investors will be wary because circumstances can change quickly.

3. Purchasing power risk: Inflation reduces consumers' purchasing power, making them less willing to spend their disposable income. A drop in purchasing power can have a domino effect on businesses and their well-being.

 

4 Examples of Systematic Risk

While diversification and asset location can help to mitigate risk, most types of systematic risk have a broader impact on the market. Typical and historical examples of systemic risks include:

1. Economic decline: A prolonged economic downturn can have an impact on employment and consumer spending. For example, the Great Depression resulted in high unemployment and a sharp drop in GDP.

2. International affairs: Wars and famines can cause higher inflation rates and more severe systemic risks. Because businesses boycotted Russian oil as a result of the Ukraine invasion, gas prices rose.

3. Natural disasters: If areas flood or experience drought, Mother Nature can cause financial crises. Two historical examples of systematic risks are the Dust Bowl and the Irish Potato Famine.

4. Public health: A common infectious disease can pose a systemic risk. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, resulted in labor shortages and seismic supply chain issues.

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