What does credit risk refer to?

Credit risk specifically refers to the potential for loss arising from a borrower's failure to repay their debt or meet contractual obligations. This can occur when individuals or businesses do not have the ability or willingness to repay loans, which can result in financial losses for lenders or investors. Understanding credit risk is crucial for financial institutions and investors, as it directly impacts their ability to recover funds lent to borrowers.

The other options refer to different types of risks: investment risks, currency risks, and operational risks, none of which specifically pertain to the likelihood of default by a borrower. Thus, option A accurately encapsulates the essence of credit risk.