The Wendy’s Co (WEN)

Financial leverage ratio

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Total assets US$ in thousands 5,034,840 5,182,830 5,499,340 5,101,390 5,040,010
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 259,352 309,779 465,720 436,405 549,596
Financial leverage ratio 19.41 16.73 11.81 11.69 9.17

December 31, 2024 calculation

Financial leverage ratio = Total assets ÷ Total stockholders’ equity
= $5,034,840K ÷ $259,352K
= 19.41

The financial leverage ratio of The Wendy's Co has been on an increasing trend over the years, starting at 9.17 in December 2020 and reaching 19.41 by December 2024. This indicates that the company has been relying more on debt to finance its operations and investments. The significant increase in the ratio from 2023 to 2024, from 16.73 to 19.41, suggests a notable escalation in the company's debt relative to its equity. This could pose risks in terms of financial stability and debt servicing capability, as higher leverage levels typically indicate higher financial risk. Management should closely monitor and manage the company's debt levels to ensure long-term financial health and sustainability.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2024

Company name
Symbol
Financial leverage ratio
The Wendy’s Co
WEN
19.41
Shake Shack Inc
SHAK
3.61
Starbucks Corporation
SBUX