Real-Life Examples Section
Example scenario:
EBIT: $500,000
Annual interest expense: $100,000
Monthly interest expense: $8,333
Calculations:
Interest coverage ratio: $500,000 ÷ $100,000 = 5.0
Safety margin: 5.0 – 1.0 = 4.0
Coverage assessment: Strong (above 5.0)
FAQs
1. What is interest coverage ratio?
The interest coverage ratio (ICR) measures a company’s ability to pay interest on its debt. It is calculated as EBIT ÷ Annual Interest Expense. A higher ratio indicates better debt safety.
2. How is interest coverage ratio calculated?
Interest Coverage Ratio = EBIT ÷ Annual Interest Expense. For example, $500,000 EBIT ÷ $100,000 interest = 5.0.
3. What is a good interest coverage ratio?
A good ICR is 2.5 or higher. Below 1.0 is dangerous (cannot cover interest). 1.0-1.5 is weak, 1.5-2.5 is moderate, 2.5-5.0 is good, and above 5.0 is strong.
4. What does a low interest coverage ratio mean?
A low ICR means the company has limited ability to pay interest from earnings. This increases default risk and may lead to credit downgrades or loan denial.
5. What does a high interest coverage ratio mean?
A high ICR means the company easily covers its interest obligations. This indicates financial strength, lower credit risk, and better borrowing capacity.
6. What is the difference between interest coverage ratio and DSCR?
ICR uses EBIT ÷ Interest. DSCR uses NOI ÷ Total Debt Service (principal + interest). ICR focuses on interest only; DSCR includes principal repayment.
7. What is the difference between interest coverage ratio and debt service coverage ratio?
ICR measures ability to pay interest. DSCR measures ability to pay all debt obligations (principal + interest). DSCR is more comprehensive.
8. What industries have high interest coverage ratios?
Companies with stable cash flows and low debt, like utilities and consumer staples, often have high ICRs. Cyclical and capital-intensive industries may have lower ratios.