What is the result of using the Cash Flow to Debt ratio calculation?

This ratio shows you by how much assets can decline in value before it becomes insolvent
A negative ratio indicates potential financial problems
This ratio records net liquid assets relative to total capitalization. This is the most valuable indicator of a bankruptcy
This ratio shows potential insolvency issues

1 answer

The Cash Flow to Debt ratio is a financial metric that reflects a company's ability to cover its debt obligations with its operating cash flow. It is calculated by dividing the operating cash flow by the total debt. Here’s how each of your statements relates to the Cash Flow to Debt ratio:

  1. "This ratio shows you by how much assets can decline in value before it becomes insolvent."

    • This statement is somewhat misleading. While the ratio provides insight into a company's ability to service its debt, it doesn't directly measure how much assets can decline in value before insolvency.
  2. "A negative ratio indicates potential financial problems."

    • This is accurate. A negative Cash Flow to Debt ratio implies that the company is using more cash to service its debt than it is generating from operations, which is a sign of potential financial distress.
  3. "This ratio records net liquid assets relative to total capitalization. This is the most valuable indicator of a bankruptcy."

    • This statement is incorrect concerning the Cash Flow to Debt ratio. The ratio measures operating cash flow against total debt rather than net liquid assets against total capitalization.
  4. "This ratio shows potential insolvency issues."

    • This is correct. A low or negative Cash Flow to Debt ratio can be a warning sign that a company may face insolvency issues, as it suggests difficulty in meeting debt obligations.

In summary, the Cash Flow to Debt ratio is a relevant measurement of a company's financial health regarding its debt obligations, and it can indicate potential insolvency issues if it is low or negative. However, it does not measure the decline in asset value directly.