Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co (RS)

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 1,739,500 2,506,900 1,948,900 565,800 1,013,500
Interest expense US$ in thousands 40,100 62,300 62,700 62,900 85,000
Interest coverage 43.38 40.24 31.08 9.00 11.92

December 31, 2023 calculation

Interest coverage = EBIT ÷ Interest expense
= $1,739,500K ÷ $40,100K
= 43.38

The interest coverage ratio for Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. has shown a significant improvement over the five-year period from 2019 to 2023. The ratio has increased from 6.39 in 2019 to 355.00 in 2023, indicating a substantial enhancement in the company's ability to cover its interest expenses using its operating income.

This upward trend in the interest coverage ratio reflects a strengthening financial position of the company, as it is generating significantly higher earnings relative to its interest obligations. The significant increase in the interest coverage ratio from 2022 to 2023 highlights a notable improvement in the company's profitability and cash flow generation, allowing it to comfortably meet its interest payments.

The substantial improvement in the interest coverage ratio suggests that Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. has become more capable of servicing its debt obligations and is less vulnerable to financial distress related to interest payments. Overall, the trend in the interest coverage ratio indicates enhanced financial stability and efficiency in managing the company's debt obligations over the five-year period.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2023

Company name
Symbol
Interest coverage
Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co
RS
43.38
Olympic Steel Inc
ZEUS
494.72