Capital Gearing

Definition:

Capital gearing is a financial strategy that involves the use of debt financing to increase the overall capital structure of a company. It involves the use of debt (loans, bonds, etc.) to finance a portion of the company’s assets.

Purpose:

• Lower cost of capital: Debt capital typically has a lower cost of interest than equity capital.
• Increase leverage: Higher debt levels increase the company’s leverage, which can amplify returns on investment.
• Debt servicing: Interest payments on debt reduce the available cash flow, which can limit growth or require additional financing.
• Increase shareholder value: Depending on the company’s industry and size, optimal capital gearing can increase shareholder value.

Factors Affecting Capital Gearing:

• Industry benchmarks: Different industries have different optimal capital structures.
• Company size and growth: Smaller companies may have lower debt levels, while growing companies may have higher debt levels.
• Interest rates: Rising interest rates increase the cost of debt, making it less attractive.
• Cash flow: Companies need sufficient cash flow to service debt interest.
• Risk tolerance: High-risk companies may have lower debt levels to minimize potential insolvency.

Types of Capital Gearing:

• High-debt capital structure: Companies with a high proportion of debt financing.
• Low-debt capital structure: Companies with a low proportion of debt financing.
• Optimal capital structure: The capital structure that minimizes the cost of capital and maximizes return on investment.

Example:

A company with a capital structure of 60% debt and 40% equity has a higher debt-to-equity ratio than a company with a capital structure of 40% debt and 60% equity.

Additional Considerations:

• Capital gearing can be a complex financial decision and should be carefully considered in the context of the company’s overall financial situation.
• Investors should consider the capital structure of a company when making investment decisions.
• Companies should manage their debt levels carefully to avoid financial distress.