Which of the following accurately describes 'cash equivalents'?

The definition of 'cash equivalents' is accurately captured by the statement that they are short-term investments easily convertible to cash. Cash equivalents typically include financial instruments that are highly liquid, meaning they can be quickly and easily turned into cash without significant loss in value. This includes items like treasury bills, money market funds, and short-term government bonds that mature within three months or less.

The key aspect of cash equivalents is their stability and liquidity, allowing businesses to meet their short-term obligations efficiently. This categorization ensures that these instruments are seen as nearly as good as cash because they are readily available for use in day-to-day operations or for settling short-term debts. Hence, identifying them appropriately is crucial for accurate financial reporting and for evaluating a company's liquidity.