FMC Corporation (FMC)

Interest coverage

Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands 439,400 1,033,500 963,200 854,900 749,300
Interest expense US$ in thousands 237,200 151,800 131,100 151,300 160,400
Interest coverage 1.85 6.81 7.35 5.65 4.67

December 31, 2023 calculation

Interest coverage = EBIT ÷ Interest expense
= $439,400K ÷ $237,200K
= 1.85

Interest coverage is a financial ratio that indicates a company's ability to meet its interest obligations on outstanding debt. The interest coverage ratio is calculated by dividing a company's earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) by its interest expense. A higher interest coverage ratio suggests that the company is more capable of meeting its interest payments.

Looking at the historical trend of FMC Corp.'s interest coverage ratio over the past five years, we see fluctuations in the range of 3.24 to 8.79. In 2023, the interest coverage ratio decreased to 3.24 from higher levels in the previous years. Although the ratio is still above 1, indicating that the company is generating sufficient earnings to cover its interest expenses, the decrease suggests a potential decrease in the company's ability to meet interest payments compared to previous years.

The significant drop in the interest coverage ratio in 2023 compared to 2022 could be a cause for concern, as it may indicate weaker earnings relative to interest expenses. This could potentially point towards increased financial risk for the company, as lower interest coverage ratios could signal difficulties in managing debt obligations.

Further analysis is needed to understand the reasons behind the decline in FMC Corp.'s interest coverage ratio in 2023 and to assess the potential impact on the company's overall financial health and stability. Investors and stakeholders may want to closely monitor future financial performance and management's strategies to address any underlying issues affecting the company's ability to cover its interest payments.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2023