Which of the following best describes the role of asset-backed securities?

The role of asset-backed securities (ABS) is best described as financial products that are backed by financial assets. This means that these securities are created by pooling together various financial assets, such as loans, leases, credit card debts, or receivables, and then issuing securities that are backed by the cash flows generated from these underlying assets. Investors in ABS receive payment from these cash flows, making them an important tool for obtaining financing and providing liquidity in the financial markets.

This structure allows for the diversification of risk and helps to transform illiquid assets into more liquid securities, appealing to a wide range of investors. Since they can be backed by a variety of assets, they are not limited to government instruments and can be offered to both institutional and individual investors, depending on the specific securities and regulations involved.