FAQs on Introduction to Corporate Securities - Sources of Business Finance, Business Economics & Finance Video Lecture - Business Economics & Finance - B Com
1. What are the sources of business finance? |
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Ans. The sources of business finance refer to the ways in which a company can raise funds to support its operations and growth. Some common sources of business finance include:
1. Equity Finance: This involves raising funds by selling shares of the company to investors. It can be done through initial public offerings (IPOs) or private placements.
2. Debt Finance: This involves borrowing money from various sources, such as banks, financial institutions, or issuing corporate bonds. The borrowed funds must be repaid with interest over a specific period.
3. Retained Earnings: Companies can finance their operations by reinvesting their profits back into the business. This is known as retained earnings and does not require external funding.
4. Venture Capital: Start-up companies or those with high growth potential can raise funds from venture capitalists. These investors provide capital in exchange for equity ownership in the company.
5. Government Grants and Subsidies: Some governments offer grants, subsidies, or tax incentives to support specific industries or encourage entrepreneurship. Companies can explore these options for funding.
2. How does equity finance work? |
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Ans. Equity finance is a method of business finance in which a company raises funds by selling shares of its ownership to investors. Here's how it works:
1. Initial Public Offering (IPO): In an IPO, a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time. The company hires an investment bank to underwrite the offering and set the initial share price. Interested investors can buy the shares through the primary market.
2. Private Placements: Instead of going public, companies can sell shares directly to private investors, such as institutional investors or wealthy individuals. This is known as a private placement and is typically done through negotiations and agreements.
3. Share Structure: When a company sells shares, it divides its ownership into small units. Each share represents a portion of the company's ownership and entitles the shareholder to certain rights, such as voting rights and dividends.
4. Share Price and Valuation: The price at which shares are sold is determined through valuation methods, such as discounted cash flow analysis or market comparables. The company's financial performance, growth prospects, and market conditions influence the share price.
5. Shareholders' Rights: Shareholders who purchase equity in a company become part-owners and have certain rights, such as attending annual general meetings, voting on significant decisions, receiving dividends, and participating in the company's success.
3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of debt finance? |
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Ans. Debt finance involves borrowing money from various sources, such as banks or financial institutions, and has both advantages and disadvantages. Here they are:
Advantages:
1. Interest Tax Deductibility: The interest paid on debt is usually tax-deductible, which reduces the overall tax liability of the company.
2. Retained Ownership and Control: Unlike equity finance, debt finance does not dilute the ownership or control of existing shareholders. The lenders do not have voting rights or ownership in the company.
3. Fixed Repayment Terms: Debt financing involves regular repayment of principal and interest over a specific period. This allows the company to plan its cash flows and financial obligations.
Disadvantages:
1. Interest Payments: Borrowing money through debt finance requires the company to make regular interest payments, increasing its financial obligations.
2. Risk of Insolvency: If a company fails to repay its debt obligations, it may face legal consequences, such as bankruptcy or foreclosure. Defaulting on debt can have severe consequences for the company's reputation and future borrowing ability.
3. Limited Financial Flexibility: Debt finance adds fixed financial obligations to the company's balance sheet, which may limit its ability to pursue other investment opportunities or respond to changing market conditions.
4. How can companies use retained earnings for business finance? |
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Ans. Retained earnings refer to the portion of a company's profits that is reinvested back into the business instead of being distributed to shareholders as dividends. Here's how companies can use retained earnings for business finance:
1. Working Capital: Companies can use retained earnings to fund their day-to-day operations, such as purchasing inventory, paying suppliers, or covering operating expenses. This helps maintain a healthy cash flow and liquidity position.
2. Expansion and Growth: Retained earnings can be utilized to finance expansion plans, such as opening new branches, acquiring other businesses, or investing in research and development. It provides internal funding for growth initiatives without relying on external sources.
3. Debt Repayment: If a company has outstanding debt, it can use retained earnings to repay its borrowings. This helps reduce the interest expense and financial obligations, improving the company's financial health.
4. Capital Expenditures: Companies can use retained earnings to finance capital expenditures, such as purchasing new equipment, upgrading technology, or expanding production facilities. This enables them to invest in long-term assets to support future growth.
5. Dividend Payments: While retained earnings are usually not distributed as dividends, companies may choose to reward their shareholders by declaring dividends. This can enhance shareholder value and attract investors.
5. What are government grants and subsidies in business finance? |
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Ans. Government grants and subsidies are financial assistance provided by governments to businesses to support specific industries, promote economic growth, or encourage entrepreneurship. Here's what you need to know:
1. Grants: Government grants are non-repayable funds given to businesses for various purposes, such as research and development, job creation, environmental initiatives, or regional development. They are typically awarded through competitive application processes and have specific requirements and reporting obligations.
2. Subsidies: Subsidies are financial contributions provided by the government to reduce the cost of certain goods or services. They are often targeted towards industries facing challenges or needing support, such as agriculture, renewable energy, or education. Subsidies can be direct payments, tax incentives, or reduced tariffs.
3. Eligibility Criteria: Governments set specific eligibility criteria for grants and subsidies, which may include factors such as company size, industry sector, location, and project objectives. Businesses need to demonstrate how they meet the criteria and how the funds will be used.
4. Application Process: Applying for government grants and subsidies typically involves submitting a detailed proposal or business plan outlining the project or initiative for which funding is sought. The application process may require supporting documents, financial statements, and compliance with regulations.
5. Impact and Considerations: Government grants and subsidies can significantly impact a company's financial position and competitive advantage. However, businesses should carefully evaluate the terms, conditions, and long-term implications of accepting government funding, including any reporting requirements, restrictions, or potential conflicts of interest.