Stericycle Inc (SRCL)

Debt-to-equity ratio

Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 1,310,000 1,400,000 1,630,000 1,860,000 2,730,000
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 2,522,500 2,420,200 2,398,700 2,430,100 2,330,900
Debt-to-equity ratio 0.52 0.58 0.68 0.77 1.17

December 31, 2023 calculation

Debt-to-equity ratio = Long-term debt ÷ Total stockholders’ equity
= $1,310,000K ÷ $2,522,500K
= 0.52

The debt-to-equity ratio of Stericycle Inc. has displayed a downward trend over the past five years, indicating a decreasing reliance on debt to finance its operations relative to shareholder equity. This trend suggests that the company is gradually reducing its debt levels and/or increasing its equity base.

As of December 31, 2023, the debt-to-equity ratio stands at 0.51, signaling a relatively conservative capital structure with a higher proportion of equity compared to debt. This could indicate lower financial risk and potentially more financial stability for the company.

The decreasing trend in the debt-to-equity ratio from 1.14 in 2019 to 0.51 in 2023 implies that Stericycle Inc. may have implemented strategies to reduce debt and strengthen its financial position in recent years. Overall, a lower debt-to-equity ratio is often viewed positively by investors as it indicates a healthier balance sheet and lower leverage risk.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2023

Company name
Symbol
Debt-to-equity ratio
Stericycle Inc
SRCL
0.52
Clean Harbors Inc
CLH
1.02