LEVERAGE RATIOS

12-31-03

12-31-04

12-31-05

Industry
Average

 
 
Fixes/Worth

 
Fixed assets (net) divided by tangible net worth.

0.3

1.3

0.9

0.4

 
This ratio measures the extent to which owner's equity (capital) has been invested in plant and equipment (fixed assets).  A lower ratio indicates a proportionately smaller investment in fixed assets in relation to net worth, and a better "cushion" for creditors in case of liquidation.  Similarly, a higher ratio would indicate the opposite situation.  The presence of substantial leased fixed assets (not shown on the balance sheet) may deceptively lower this ratio.

 
Debt/Worth

 
Total liabilities divided by tangible net worth.

3.5

3.2

6.0

2.3

 
This ratio expresses the relationship between capital contributed by creditors and that contributed by owners.  It expresses the degree of protection provided by the owners for the creditors.  The higher the ration, the greater the risk being assumed by creditors.  A lower ratio generally indicates greater long-term financial safety.  A firm with a low debt/worth ratio usually has greater flexibility to borrow in the future.  A more highly leveraged company has a more limited debt  capacity.

 

 
  
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