Question

Which of the following ratios are computed for evaluating solvency of the business?

1. Proprietary Ratio
2. Interest Coverage Ratio
3. Total Asset to Debt Ratio
4. Fixed Asset Turnover Ratio

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Solvency ratios are used to assess the financial stability and long-term viability of a business by measuring its ability to meet long-term debt obligations. Let’s analyze each ratio mentioned in the options to see if it helps in evaluating solvency:
Proprietary Ratio (A): The Proprietary Ratio is calculated as: \[ \text{Proprietary Ratio} = \frac{\text{Shareholders' Equity}}{\text{Total Assets}} \] This ratio indicates the proportion of the company's assets financed by shareholders' equity. It is used to assess the company's long-term solvency because it shows the proportion of assets funded by owners rather than by creditors. Therefore, (A) is relevant for solvency. Interest Coverage Ratio (B):
The Interest Coverage Ratio is calculated as: \[ \text{Interest Coverage Ratio} = \frac{\text{EBIT}}{\text{Interest Expenses}} \] This ratio indicates how easily a company can pay interest on its debt with its earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT). A higher ratio suggests a greater ability to meet interest obligations, which directly impacts solvency. Therefore, (B) is relevant for solvency. Total Asset to Debt Ratio (C):
The Total Asset to Debt Ratio is calculated as: \[ \text{Total Asset to Debt Ratio} = \frac{\text{Total Assets}}{\text{Total Debt}} \] This ratio shows the proportion of a company's assets financed by debt. A higher ratio indicates lower financial risk and better solvency, as it suggests the company can cover its debt obligations with its assets. Therefore, (C) is relevant for solvency.Fixed Asset Turnover Ratio (D):
The Fixed Asset Turnover Ratio} is calculated as: \[ \text{Fixed Asset Turnover Ratio} = \frac{\text{Net Sales}}{\text{Net Fixed Assets}} \] This ratio measures how efficiently a company is utilizing its fixed assets to generate sales. While it helps assess operational efficiency, it is not directly related to evaluating solvency, as it doesn’t focus on the company’s ability to meet long-term debt obligations.
Therefore, (D) is not relevant for solvency.
Correct Answer: The solvency ratios are (A) Proprietary Ratio, (B) Interest Coverage Ratio, and (C) Total Asset to Debt Ratio.

Thus, the correct answer is (2) (A), (B), and (C) only.

Answer 2

Proprietary Ratio: Measures the proportion of shareholders’ equity to total assets, indicating the financial stability of the business.
Interest Coverage Ratio: Assesses the ability of the business to meet its interest obligations, which is a key indicator of solvency.
Total Asset to Debt Ratio: Shows the extent to which a business’s assets can cover its debts, crucial for solvency evaluation.
Fixed Asset Turnover Ratio: This ratio measures the efficiency of fixed assets in generating sales, which is related to operational performance rather than solvency.