37483094 Sources of Finance

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C 8HAPTER

S B FOURCES OF USINESS INANCE

LEARNING

OBJECTIVES

After studying this chapter, you should be able to:

state the meaning, nature and importance of business finance;

classify the various sources of business finance;

evaluate merits and limitations of various sources of finance;

identify the international sources of finance; and

examine the factors that affect the choice of an appropriate sourceof finance.


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SOURCES OF BUSINESSFINANCE

183

the purchase of plant and machinery, The amount of working capital

furniture, and other fixed assets. required varies from one business

Similarly, some funds are required for concern to another depending on various

day-to-day operations, say to purchase factors. A business unit selling goods on

raw materials, pay salaries to credit, or having a slow sales turnover,

employees, etc. Also when the business for example, would require more

expands, it needs funds. working capital as compared to aThe financial needs of a business can concern selling its goods and services on

be categorised as follows: cash basis or having a speedier turnover.

(a) Fixed capital requirements: In The requirement for fixed and

order to start business, funds are working capital increases with therequired to purchase fixed assets like growth and expansion of business. Atland and building, plant and times additional funds are required for

machinery, and furniture and upgrading the technology employed sofixtures. This is known as fixed that the cost of production or operationscapital requirements of the can be reduced. Similarly, larger fundsenterprise. The funds required in may be required for building higherfixed assets remain invested in the inventories for the festive season or tobusiness for a long period of time. meet current debts or expand theDifferent business units need varying business or to shift to a new location. Itamount of fixed capital depending on is, therefore, important to evaluate thevarious factors such as the nature of different sources from where funds can

business, etc. A trading concern for be raised.example, may require small amount

of fixed capital as compared to a 8.3 C SLASSIFICATION

OF OURCE

S

OFmanufacturing concern. Likewise, FUND

Sthe need for fixed capital investmentIn case of proprietary and partnershipwould be greater for a largeconcerns, the funds may be raised eitherenterprise, as compared to that of afrom personal sources or borrowingssmall enterprise.from banks, friends etc. In case of(b) Working Capital

requirements: company form of organisation, theThe financial requirements of andifferent sources of business financeenterprise do not end with the

which are available may be categorisedprocurement of fixed assets. No

as given in Table 8.1matter how small or large a businessis, it needs funds for its day-to-day As shown in the table, the sources

of funds can be categorised usingoperations. This is known as working

capital of an enterprise, which is used different basis viz., on the basis of the

period, source of generation and thefor holding current assets such as

stock of material, bills receivables and ownership. A brief explanation of these

for meeting current expenses like classifications and the sources is

provided as follows:salaries, wages, taxes, and rent.


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184 BUSINESSSTUDIES


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8.3.1 Period Basis 8.3.2 Ownership

BasisOn the basis of period, the different On the basis of ownership, the sourcessources of funds can be categorised can be classified into owners fundsinto three parts. These are long-term and borrowed funds. Owners fundssources, medium-term sources and means funds that are provided by theshort-term sources. owners of an enterprise, which may

The long-term sources fulfil the be a sole trader or partners orfinancial requirements of an enterprise

shareholders of a company. Apartfor a period exceeding 5 years and

from capital, it also includes profits

include sources such as shares and reinvested in the business. Thedebentures, long-term borrowings andowners capital remains invested in the

loans from financial institutions. Suchbusiness for a longer duration and is

financing is generally required for thenot required to be refunded during the

acquisition of fixed assets such aslife period of the business. Such capitalequipment, plant, etc.forms the basis on which ownersWhere the funds are required for aacquire their right of control ofperiod of more than one year but lessmanagement. Issue of equity sharesthan five years, medium-term sourcesand retained earnings are the twoof finance are used. These sourcesimportant sources from where ownersinclude borrowings from commercial

funds can be obtained.banks, public deposits, lease financing

and loans from financial institutions. Borrowed funds on the otherShort-term funds are those which hand, refer to the funds raised through

are required for a period not exceeding loans or borrowings. The sources forone year. Trade cr edit, loans from raising borrowed funds include loanscommercial banks and commercial from commercial banks, loans frompapers are some of the examples of the financial institutions, issue ofsources that provide funds for short debentures, public deposits and tradeduration. credit. Such sources provide funds for

Short-term financing is mosta specified period, on certain terms

common for financing of current assetsand conditions and have to be repaid

such as accounts receivable andafter the expiry of that period. A fixed

inventories. Seasonal businesses thatrate of interest is paid by the

must build inventories in anticipation borrowers on such funds. At times itof selling requirements often need short-puts a lot of burden on the businessterm financing for the interim periodas payment of interest is to be madebetween seasons. Wholesalers andeven when the earnings are low ormanufacturers with a major portion ofwhen loss is incurred. Generally,their assets tied up in inventories orborrowed funds are provided on thereceivables also require large amount

of funds for a short period. security of some fixed assets.


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186 BUSINESSSTUDIES

8.3.3 Source of Generation Basis cost and associated risk, a choice may

be made about the source to be used.Another basis of categorising the sources

For example, if a business wants toof funds can be whether the funds are

raise funds for meeting fixed capitalgenerated from within the organisation or

requirements, long term funds may befrom external sources. Internal sources

required which can be raised in the formof funds are those that are generated from

of owned funds or borrowed funds.within the business. A business, for

Similarly, if the purpose is to meet theexample, can generate funds internally by

day-to-day requirements of business,accelerating collection of receivables,

the short term sources may be tapped.

disposing of surplus inventories and A brief description of various sources,ploughing back its profit. The internalalong with their advantages and

sources of funds can fulfill only limitedlimitations is given below.

needs of the business.

External sources of funds include8.4.1 Retained

Earningsthose sources that lie outside an

organisation, such as suppliers, A company generally does not distribute

all its earnings amongst thelenders, and investors. When large

amount of money is required to be shareholders as dividends. A portion of

the net earnings may be retained in theraised, it is generally done through the

use of external sources. External funds business for use in the future. This is

may be costly as compared to those known as retained earnings. It is a

source of internal financing or self-raised through internal sources. Insome cases, business is required to financing or ploughing back of profits.

The profit available for ploughing backmortgage its assets as security while

obtaining funds from external sources. in an organisation depends on many

Issue of debentures, borrowing from factors like net profits, dividend policy

and age of the organisation.commercial banks and financial

institutions and accepting public

deposits are some of the examples of Merits

external sources of funds commonlyThe merits of retained earning as a

used by business organisations.source of finance are as follows:

(i) Retained earnings is a permanent8.4 S FOURCE

S

OF INANC

Esource of funds available to an

A business can raise funds from organisation;(ii) It does not involve any explicit costvarious sources. Each of the source has

unique characteristics, which must be in the form of interest, dividend or

properly understood so that the best floatation cost;

(iii) A s the funds are generatedavailable source of raising funds can

be identified. There is not a single best internally, there is a greater degree

of operational freedom andsource of funds for all organisations.

Depending on the situation, purpose, flexibility;


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(iv) It enhances the capacity of the record of payment and degree of

business to absorb unexpected competition in the market. Terms of

trade credit may vary from one industrylosses;to another and from one person to(v) It may lead to increase in theanother. A firm may also offer differentmarket price of the equity sharescredit terms to different customers.of a company.

MeritsLimitations

The important merits of trade credit areRetained earning as a source of fundsas follows:

has the following limitations: (i) Trade credit is a convenient and(i) Excessive ploughing back maycontinuous source of funds;cause dissatisfaction amongst the

(ii) T rade credit may be readilyshareholders as they would getavailable in case the creditlower dividends;worthiness of the customers is(ii) It is an uncertain source of fundsknown to the seller;

as the profits of business are(iii) Trade credit needs to promote the

fluctuating;sales of an organisation;

(iii) The opportunity cost associated(iv) If an organisation wants to increase

with these funds is not recognisedits inventory level in order to meet

by many firms. This may lead toexpected rise in the sales volume

sub-optimal use of the funds.in the near future, it may use trade

credit to, finance the same;8.4.2 Trade Credit

(v) It does not create any charge on

Trade credit is the credit extended by the assets of the firm while

providing funds.one trader to another for the purchase

of goods and services. Trade creditLimitationsfacilitates the purchase of supplies

without immediate payment. Such Trade credit as a source of funds hascredit appears in the records of the certain limitations, which are given asbuyer of goods as sundry creditors or follows:accounts payable. T rade credit is (i) Availability of easy and flexiblecommonly used by business trade credit facilities may induce a

organisations as a source of short-term firm to indulge in overtrading,financing. It is granted to those which may add to the risks of thecustomers who have reasonable amount firm;

of financial standing and goodwill. The (ii) Only limited amount of funds can

volume and period of credit extended be generated through trade credit;

depends on factors such as reputation (iii) It is generally a costly source of

of the purchasing firm, financial position funds as compared to most other

of the seller, volume of purchases, past sources of raising money.


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8.4.3 Factoring services include SBI Factors and

Commercial Services Ltd., CanbankFactoring is a financial service under

Factors Ltd., Foremost Factors Ltd.,which the factor renders various

State Bank of India, Canara Bank,services which includes:

Punjab National Bank, Allahabad(a) Discounting of bills (with or without

Bank. In addition, many non-bankingrecourse) and collection of the clients

finance companies and otherdebts. Under this, the receivables on

agencies provide factoring service.account of sale of goods or services

are sold to the factor at a certain Merits

discount. The factor becomes The merits of factoring as a source ofresponsible for all credit control andfinance are as follows:

debt collection from the buyer and(i) Obtaining funds through factoring

provides protection against any badis cheaper than financing through

debt losses to the firm. There are twoother means such as bank credit;

methods of factoring recourse and(ii) With cash flow accelerated by

non-recourse. Under recoursefactoring, the client is able to meet

factoring, the client is not protected his/her liabilities promptly as andagainst the risk of bad debts. On the

when these arise;other hand, the factor assumes the (iii) Factoring as a source of funds isentire credit risk under non-recourse flexible and ensures a definitefactoring i.e., full amount of invoice pattern of cash inflows from credit

is paid to the client in the event of sales. It provides security for athe debt becoming bad. debt that a firm might otherwise

(b) Providing information about credit be unable to obtain;worthiness of prospective clients etc., (iv) It does not create any charge onFactors hold large amounts of the assets of the firm;

information about the trading (v) The client can concentrate on other

histories of the firms. This can be functional areas of business as the

valuable to those who are using responsibility of credit control is

factoring services and can thereby shouldered by the factor.

avoid doing business with customersLimitationshaving poor payment record. Factors

may also offer relevant consultancy The limitations of factoring as a source

services in the areas of finance, of finance are as follows:marketing, etc. (i) This source is expensive when the

The factor charges fees for the invoices are numerous and

services rendered. Factoring smaller in amount;

appeared on the Indian financial (ii) The advance finance provided by

scene only in the early nineties as a the factor firm is generally available

result of RBI initiatives. The at a higher interest cost than the

organisations that provides such usual rate of interest;


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(iii) The factor is a third party to the (iii) Lease rentals paid by the lessee are

customer who may not feel deductible for computing taxable

comfortable while dealing with it. profits;

(iv) I t provides finance without

8.4.4 Lease Financing diluting the ownership or control

of business;A lease is a contractual agreement

(v) The lease agreement does not affectwhereby one party i.e., the owner of an

the debt raising capacity of anasset grants the other party the right

enterprise;to use the asset in return for a periodic

(vi) The risk of obsolescence is borne

payment. In other words it is a renting by the lesser. This allows greaterof an asset for some specified period.

flexibility to the lessee to replaceThe owner of the assets is called the

the asset.lessor while the party that uses the

assets is known as the lessee (seeLimitations

Box A). The lessee pays a fixed periodic

amount called lease rental to the lessor The limitations of lease financing are

for the use of the asset. The terms and given as below:

conditions regulating the lease (i) A lease arrangement may impose

arrangements are given in the lease certain restrictions on the use of

contract. At the end of the lease period, assets. For example, it may not

the asset goes back to the lessor. Lease allow the lessee to make any

finance provides an important means alteration or modification in theof modernisation and diversification to asset;

the firm. Such type of financing is more (ii) The normal business operations

prevalent in the acquisition of such may be affected in case the lease

assets as computers and electronic is not renewed;

equipment which become obsolete (iii) It may result in higher payout

quicker because of the fast changing obligation in case the equipment

technological developments. While is not found useful and the lessee

making the leasing decision, the cost opts for premature termination of

of leasing an asset must be compared the lease agreement; and

with the cost of owning the same. (iv) The lessee never becomes the

owner of the asset. It deprives him

Merits of the residual value of the asset.

The important merits of lease financing8.4.5 Public Deposits

are as follows:

(i) It enables the lessee to acquire the The deposits that are raised by

asset with a lower investment; organisations directly from the public

(ii) Simple documentation makes it are known as public deposits. Rates of

easier to finance assets; interest offered on public deposits are


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190 BUSINESSSTUDIES

usually higher than that offered on beneficial to both the depositor as well

bank deposits. Any person who is as to the organisation. While the

interested in depositing money in an depositors get higher interest rate than

organisation can do so by filling up a that offered by banks, the cost of

prescribed form. The organisation in deposits to the company is less than

return issues a deposit receipt as the cost of borrowings from banks.

acknowledgment of the debt. Public Companies generally invite public

deposits can take care of both medium deposits for a period upto three years.

and short-term financial requirements The acceptance of public deposits is

of a business. The deposits are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India.

Box A

The Lessors

1. Specialised leasing companies: There are about 400-odd large companies

which have an organisational focus on leasing, and hence, are known as

leasing companies.

2. Banks and bank-

subsidiaries:

In February 1994, the RBI allowed banks to

directly enter leasing. Till then, only bank subsidiaries were allowed to engage

in leasing operations, which was regarded by the RBI as a non-banking activity.

3. Specialised financial

institutions:

A number of financial institutions, at

the Central as well as the State level in India, use the lease instrument along

with traditional financing instruments. Significantly, the ICICI is one of the

pioneers in Indian leasing.4. Manufacturer-lessors: As competition forces the manufacturer to add value

to his sales, he finds the best way to sell the product on lease. Vendor leasing

is gaining increasing importance. Presently, vendors of automobiles, consumer

durables, etc., have alliances or joint ventures with leasing companies to offer

lease finance against their products.

The Lessees

1. Public sector undertakings: This market has witnessed a good rate of growth

in the past. There is an increasing number of both centrally as well as State-

owned entities which have resorted to lease financing.

2. Mid-market companies: The mid-market companies (i.e. companies with

reasonably good creditworthiness but with lower public profile) have resorted

to lease financing basically as an alternative to bank/institutional financing.3. Consumers: Recent bad experience with corporate financing has focussed

attention towards retail funding of consumer durables. For instance, car

leasing is a big market in India today.

4. Government deptts. and authorities: One of the latest entrants in leasing

markets is the government itself. Recently the Department of

Telecommunications of the central government took the lead by floating tenders

for lease finance worth about Rs. 1000 crores.


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Merits business firms, insurance companies,

pension funds and banks. The amountThe merits of public deposits are:

raised by CP is generally very large. As(i) The procedure of obtaining

the debt is totally unsecured, the firmsdeposits is simple and does not

having good credit rating can issue thecontain restrictive conditions as are

CP. Its regulation comes under thegenerally there in a loan agreement;

purview of the Reserve Bank of India.(ii) Cost of public deposits is generally

The merits and limitations of alower than the cost of borrowings

Commercial Paper are as follows:from banks and financial

institutions; Merits(iii) Public deposits do not usually

(i) A commercial paper is sold on ancreate any charge on the assets ofunsecured basis and does notthe company. The assets can becontain any restrictive conditions;used as security for raising loans

(ii) A s i t i s a freely transferablefrom other sources;instrument, it has high liquidity;(iv) A s the depositors do not have

(iii) It provides more funds comparedvoting rights, the control of theto other sources. Generally, thecompany is not diluted.cost of CP to the issuing firm is

lower than the cost of commercialLimitationsbank loans;

The major limitation of public deposits (iv) A commercial paper provides aare as follows: continuous source of funds. This

(i) New companies generally find it is because their maturity can bedifficult to raise funds through tailored to suit the requirementspublic deposits; of the issuing firm. Further,

(ii) It is an unreliable source of finance maturing commercial paper canas the public may not respond be repaid by selling newwhen the company needs money; commercial paper;

(iii) Collection of public deposits may (v) Companies can park their excessprove difficult, particularly when funds in commercial paper

the size of deposits required is large. thereby earning some good return

on the same.8.4.6 Commercial Paper (CP)

LimitationsCommercial Paper emerged as a source

of short term finance in our country in (i) Only financially sound and highlythe early nineties. Commercial paper is rated firms can raise moneyan unsecured promissory note issued through commercial papers. Newby a firm to raise funds for a short and moderately rated firms are

period, varying from 90 days to 364 not in a position to raise funds by

days. It is issued by one firm to other this method;


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(ii) The size of money that can be dividend but are paid on the basis

raised through commercial paper of earnings by the company. They

is limited to the excess liquidity are referred to as residual owners

available with the suppliers of since they receive what is left after

funds at a particular time; all other claims on the companys

(iii) Commercial paper is an impersonal income and assets have beenmethod of financing. As such if a settled. They enjoy the reward asfirm is not in a position to redeem well as bear the risk of ownership.its paper due to financial Their liability, however, is limiteddifficulties, extending the maturity to the extent of capital contributed

of a CP is not possible. by them in the company. Further,

through their right to vote, these8.4.7 Issue of Shares shareholders have a right to

participate in the management ofThe capital obtained by issue of sharesthe company.is known as share capital. The capital

of a company is divided into small unitsMerits

called shares. Each share has its

nominal value. For example, a The important merits of raising fundscompany can issue 1,00,000 shares through issuing equity shares are given

of Rs. 10 each for a total value of as below:Rs. 10,00,000. The person holding the (i) Equity shares are suitable for

share is known as shareholder. There investors who are willing toare two types of shares normally issued assume risk for higher returns;by a company. These are equity shares (ii) Payment of dividend to the equityand preference shares. The money shareholders is not compulsory.raised by issue of equity shares is called Therefore, there is no burden onequity share capital, while the money the company in this respect;raised by issue of preference shares is (iii) Equity capital serves ascalled preference share capital. permanent capital as it is to be

repaid only at the time of(a) Equity Sharesliquidation of a company. As itEquity shares is the moststands last in the list of claims, itimportant source of raising longprovides a cushion for creditors,term capital by a company. Equity

in the event of winding up of ashares represent the ownership ofcompany;a company and thus the capital

(iv) Equity capital provides creditraised by issue of such shares isworthiness to the company andknown as ownership capital orconfidence to prospective loanowners funds. Equity shareproviders;capital is a prerequisite to the

(v) Funds can be raised throughcreation of a company. Equity

shareholders do not get a fixed equity issue without creating


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any charge on the assets of the and (ii) receiving their capital after

company. The assets of a company the claims of the companys

are, therefore, free to be mortgaged creditors have been settled, at the

for the purpose of borrowings, if the time of liquidation. In other words,

need be; as compared to the equity

(vi) Democratic control over shareholders, the preferencemanagement of the company is shareholders have a preferentialassured due to voting rights of claim over dividend and repaymentequity shareholders. of capital. Preference shares

resemble debentures as they bear

Limitations fixed rate of return. Also as the

dividend is payable only at theThe major limitations of raising fundsdiscretion of the directors and onlythrough issue of equity shares are asout of profit after tax, to that extent,follows:these resemble equity shares.(i) Investors who want steady incomeThus, preference shares have somemay not prefer equity shares ascharacteristics of both equityequity shares get fluctuatingshares and debentures. Preferencereturns;shareholders generally do not(ii) The cost of equity shares is

enjoy any voting rights. A companygenerally more as compared to thecan issue different types ofcost of raising funds through other

preference shares (see Box B).sources;

(iii) Issue of additional equity sharesMeritsdilutes the voting power, and

earnings of existing equity The merits of preference shares are givenshareholders; as follows:

(iv) More formalities and procedural (i) Preference shares providedelays are involved while raising reasonably steady income in thefunds through issue of equity form of fixed rate of return andshare. safety of investment;

(ii) Preference shares are useful for(b) Preference Sharesthose investors who want fixedThe capital raised by issue ofrate of return with comparativelypreference shares is called

low risk;preference share capital. The(iii) It does not affect the control ofpreference shareholders enjoy a

equity shareholders over thepreferential position over equity

management as preferenceshareholders in two ways:

(i) receiving a fixed rate of dividend, shareholders dont have voting

rights;out of the net profits of the

company, before any dividend is (iv) Payment of fixed rate of dividend

declared for equity shareholders; to preference shares may enable a


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company to declare higher rates (iv) As the dividend on these shares is

of dividend for the equity to be paid only when the company

shareholders in good times; earns profit, there is no assured

(v) Preference shareholders have a return for the investors. Thus,

preferential right of repayment these shares may not be very

over equity shareholders in the event attractive to the investors;

of liquidation of a company; (v) The dividend paid is not

(vi) Preference capital does not create deductible from profits as expense.

any sort of charge against the Thus, there is no tax saving as in

assets of a company. the case of interest on loans.

Limitations 8.4.8 Debentures

The major limitations of preference Debentures are an important

shares as source of business finance instrument for raising long term debt

are as follows: capital. A company can raise funds

(i) Preference shares are not suitable through issue of debentures, which

for those investors who are willing bear a fixed rate of interest. The

to take risk and are interested in debenture issued by a company is an

higher returns; acknowledgment that the company has

(ii) Preference capital dilutes the borrowed a certain amount of money,

claims of equity shareholders over which it promises to repay at a future

assets of the company; date. Debenture holders are, therefore,(iii) The rate of dividend on preference termed as creditors of the company.

shares is generally higher than the Debenture holders are paid a fixed

rate of interest on debentures; stated amount of interest at specified

Box B

Types of Preference Shares

1. Cumulative and Non-Cumulative: The preference shares which enjoy theright to accumulate unpaid dividends in the future years, in case the same

is not paid during a year are known as cumulative preference shares. On

the other hand, on non-cumulative shares, dividend is not accumulated if itis not paid in a particular year.

2. Participating and Non-Participating: Preference shares which have a right

to participate in the further surplus of a company shares which after dividend

at a certain rate has been paid on equity shares are called participatingpreference shares. The non-participating preference are such which do notenjoy such rights of participation in the profits of the company.

3. Convertible and Non-Convertible: Preference shares that can be converted

into equity shares within a specified period of time are known as convertiblepreference shares. On the other hand, non-convertible shares are such thatcannot be converted into equity shares.


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intervals say six months or one year. (v) Financing through debentures is

Public issue of debentures requires less costly as compared to cost of

that the issue be rated by a credit rating preference or equity capital as the

agency like CRISIL (Credit Rating and interest payment on debentures is

Information Services of India Ltd.) on tax deductible.

aspects like track record of the

company, its profitability, debt Limitationsservicing capacity, credit worthiness

Debentures as source of funds hasand the perceived risk of lending. Acertain limitations. These are given ascompany can issue different types offollows:

debentures (see Box C and D). Issue of (i) As fixed charge instruments,Zero Interest Debentures (ZID) whichdebentures put a permanentdo not carry any explicit rate of interestburden on the earnings of ahas also become popular in recent

years. The difference between the face company. There is a greater risk

value of the debenture and its purchase when earnings of the companyprice is the return to the investor. fluctuate;

(ii) In case of redeemable debentures,Merits the company has to make

provisions for repayment on theThe merits of raising funds throughspecified date, even during periodsdebentures are given as follows:of financial difficulty;(i) It is preferred by investors who

(iii) Each company has certainwant fixed income at lesser risk;(ii) Debentures are fixed charge funds borrowing capacity. With the issue

and do not participate in profits of of debentures, the capacity of athe company; company to further borrow funds

(iii) The issue of debentures is suitable reduces.in the situation when the sales and

earnings are relatively stable; 8.4.9 Commercial Banks(iv) A s debentures do not carry

Commercial banks occupy a vitalvoting rights, financing throughposition as they provide funds fordebentures does not dilute controldifferent purposes as well as for differentof equity shareholders ontime periods. Banks extend loans tomanagement;

Box C

Companies issuing different

DebenturesMahindra and Mahindra was the first company in India to issue convertibleZero Interest Debentures in January 1990. Recently, the board of Titan Industries

has approved the issue of partly convertible debentures on a rights basis toraise around Rs. 126.83 crore. The issue will comprise 21 lakh partly convertible

debentures of Rs. 600 each in the ratio of one partly convertible debenture forevery 20 equity shares held in the company to the shareholders.


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196 BUSINESSSTUDIES

firms of all sizes and in many ways, like, (i) Banks provide timely assistance to

cash credits, overdrafts, term loans, business by providing funds as

purchase/discounting of bills, and and when needed by it.

issue of letter of credit. The rate of (ii) Secrecy of business can be

interest charged by banks depends maintained as the information

on various factors such as the supplied to the bank by the

characteristics of the firm and the level borrowers is kept confidential;

of interest rates in the economy. The (iii) Formalities such as issue of

loan is repaid either in lump sum or in prospectus and underwriting are

installments. not required for raising loans from

Bank credit is not a permanent a bank. This, therefore, is an easier

source of funds. Though banks have source of funds;

started extending loans for longer (iv) Loan from a bank is a flexible

periods, generally such loans are used source of finance as the loan

for medium to short periods. The amount can be increased

borrower is required to provide some according to business needs and

security or create a charge on the assets can be repaid in advance when

of the firm before a loan is sanctioned funds are not needed.

by a commercial bank.

Limitations

MeritsThe major limitations of commercial

The merits of raising funds from a banks as a source of finance are ascommercial bank are as follows: follows:

Box D

Types of Debentures

1. Secured and Unsecured: Secured debentures are such which create a charge

on the assets of the company, thereby mortgaging the assets of the company.

Unsecured debentures on the other hand do not carry any charge or security

on the assets of the company.

2. Registered and Bearer: Registered debentures are those which are duly

recorded in the register of debenture holders maintained by the company.

These can be transferred only through a regular instrument of transfer. In

contrast, the debentures which are transferable by mere delivery are calledbearer debentures.

3. Convertible and Non-Convertible: Convertible debentures are those

debentures that can be converted into equity shares after the expiry of a

specified period. On the other hand, non-convertible debentures are those

which cannot be converted into equity shares.

4. First and Second: Debentures that are repaid before other debentures are

repaid are known as first debentures. The second debentures are those which

are paid after the first debentures have been paid back.


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(i) Funds are generally available for expansion, reorganisation and

short periods and its extension or modernisation of an enterprise.

renewal is uncertain and difficult;Merits(ii) Banks make detailed investigation

of the companys affairs, financial The merits of raising funds throughstructure etc., and may also ask for financial institutions are as follows:security of assets and personal (i) Financial institutions provide long-sureties. This makes the procedure term finance, which are notof obtaining funds slightly provided by commercial banks;difficult; (ii) Besides providing funds, many of

(iii) In some cases, difficult terms and these institutions provide financial,conditions are imposed by banks. managerial and technical advicefor the grant of loan. For example, and consultancy to business firms;restrictions may be imposed on the (iii) Obtaining loan from financialsale of mortgaged goods, thus institutions increases the goodwillmaking normal business working of the borrowing company in thedifficult. capital market. Consequently,

such a company can raise funds8.4.10 Financial Institutions easily from other sources as well;

(iv) As repayment of loan can be madeThe government has established ain easy instalments, it does notnumber of financial institutions all over

prove to be much of a burden onthe country to provide finance tothe business;business organisations (see Box E).

(v) The funds are made available evenThese institutions are established byduring periods of depression, whenthe central as well as state governments.other sources of finance are notThey provide both owned capital andavailable.loan capital for long and medium term

requirements and supplement theLimitations

traditional financial agencies like

commercial banks. As these The major limitations of raising funds

institutions aim at promoting the from financial institutions are as givenindustrial development of a country, below:

these are also called development (i) Financial institutions follow rigid

banks. In addition to providing criteria for grant of loans. Too manyfinancial assistance, these institutions formalities make the procedure

also conduct market surveys and time consuming and expensive;

provide technical assistance and (ii) Certain restrictions such as

managerial services to people who run restriction on dividend payment are

the enterprises. This source of financing imposed on the powers of the

is considered suitable when large funds borrowing company by the

for longer duration are required for financial institutions;


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198 BUSINESSSTUDIES

Box E

Special Financial

Institutions1. Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI): It was established in July

1948 as a statutory corporation under the Industrial Finance Corporation

Act, 1948. Its objectives include assistance towards balanced regional

development and encouraging new entrepreneurs to enter into the prioritysectors of the economy. IFCI has also contributed to the development of

management education in the country.

2. State Financial Corporations (SFC): The State Financial Corporations Act,1951 empowered the State Governments to establish State Financial

Corporations in their respective regions for providing medium and short term

finance to industries which are outside the scope of the IFCI. Its scope is widerthan IFCI, since the former covers not only public limited companies but also

private limited companies, partnership firms and proprietary concerns.

3. Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India (ICICI): This was

established in 1955 as a public limited company under the Companies Act.ICICI assists the creation, expansion and modernisation of industrial

enterprises exclusively in the private sector. The corporation has also

encouraged the participation of foreign capital in the country.4. Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI): It was established in 1964

under the Industrial Development Bank of India Act, 1964 with an objective to

coordinate the activities of other financial institutions including commercialbanks. The bank performs three types of functions, namely, assistance to

other financial institutions, direct assistance to industrial concerns, and

promotion and coordination of financial-technical services.5. State Industrial Development Corporations (SIDC): Many state governments

have set up State Industrial Development Corporations for the purpose of

promoting industrial development in their respective states. The objectives of

the SIDCs differ from one state to another.

6. Unit Trust of India (UTI): It was established by the Government of India in

1964 under the Unit Trust of India Act, 1963. The basic objective of UTI is to

mobilise the communitys savings and channelise them into productiveventures. For this purpose, it sanctions direct assistance to industrial

concerns, invests in their shares and debentures, and participates with other

financial institutions.7. Industrial Investment Bank of India

Ltd.:

It was initially set up as a primary

agency for rehabilitation of sick units and was known as Industrial

Reconstruction Corporation of India. It was reconstituted and renamed as the

Industrial Reconstruction Bank of India in 1985 and again in 1997 its namewas changed to Industrial Investment Bank of India. The Bank assists sick

units in the reorganisation of their share capital, improvement in management

system, and provision of finance at liberal terms.8. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC): LIC was set up in 1956 under the

LIC Act, 1956 after nationalising 245 existing insurance companies. It mobilises

the communitys savings in the form of insurance premia and makes it availableto industrial concerns, both public as well as private, in the form of direct

loans and underwriting of and subscription to shares and debentures.


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199

(iii) Financial institutions may have projects. The more notable among them

their nominees on the Board of include International Finance

Corporation (IFC), EXIM Bank andDirectors of the borrowingAsian Development Bank.company thereby restricting the

powers of the company. (iii) International Capital Markets:

Modern organisations including8.5 I F multinational companies depend uponNTERNATIONA

L

INANCIN

G sizeable borrowings in rupees as wellIn addition to the sources discussed

as in foreign currency. Prominentabove, there are various avenues for

financial instruments used for this

organisations to raise funds purpose are:internationally. With the opening up of(a) Global Depository Receipts

an economy and the operations of the(GDRs): The local currency shares

business organisations becomingof a company are delivered to the

global, Indian companies have andepository bank. The depository

access to funds in global capital market.bank issues depository receipts

Various inter national sources fromagainst these shares. Such

where funds may be generated include:depository receipts denominated in

(i) Commercial Banks: CommercialUS dollars are known as Global

banks all over the world extend foreignDepository Receipts (GDR). GDR is

currency loans for business purposes. a negotiable instrument and can beThey are an important source of

traded freely like any other security.

financing non-trade international In the Indian context, a GDR is anoperations. The types of loans and instrument issued abroad by anservices provided by banks vary from

Indian company to raise funds incountry to country. For example, some foreign currency and is listedStandard Chartered emerged as a and traded on a foreign stockmajor source of foreign currency loans exchange. A holder of GDR can atto the Indian industry. any time convert it into the number(ii) International Agencies and of shares it represents. The holdersDevelopment

Banks:

A number of GDRs do not carry any votingof international agencies and rights but only dividends anddevelopment banks have emerged over capital appreciation. Many Indianthe years to finance international trade companies such as Infosys,

and business. These bodies provide Reliance, Wipro and ICICI havelong and medium term loans and raised money through issue ofgrants to promote the development of GDRs (see Box

F).economically backward areas in the (b) American Depository Receiptsworld. These bodies were set up by the (ADRs): The depository receiptsGovernments of developed countries of issued by a company in the USA

the world at national, regional and are known as American Depository

international levels for funding various Receipts. ADRs are bought and sold


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201

equity capital has a role to play in the (iv) Purpose and timeperiod:scheme for raising funds in the Business should plan according to the

corporate sector. time period for which the funds are

As no source of funds is devoid of required. A short-term need for

limitations, it is advisable to use a example can be met through borrowing

combination of sources, instead of funds at low rate of interest through

relying only on a single source. A trade credit, commercial paper, etc. For

number of factors affect the choice of long term finance, sources such as

this combination, making it a very issue of shares and debentures are

complex decision for the business. The more appropriate. Similarly, the

factors that affect the choice of source purpose for which funds are required

of finance are briefly discussed below: need to be considered so that the

(i) Cost: There are two types of cost viz., source is matched with the use. For

the cost of procurement of funds and example, a long-term business

cost of utilising the funds. Both these expansion plan should not be financed

costs should be taken into account by a bank overdraft which will be

while deciding about the source of required to be repaid in the short term.

funds that will be used by an (v) Risk profile: Business should

organisation. evaluate each of the source of finance

(ii) Financial strength and stability in terms of the risk involved. For

of operations: The financial strength example, there is a least risk in equity

of a business is also a key determinant. as the share capital has to be repaidIn the choice of source of funds only at the time of winding up and

business should be in a sound financial dividends need not be paid if no profits

position so as to be able to repay the are available. A loan on the other hand,

principal amount and interest on the has a repayment schedule for both the

borrowed amount. When the earnings principal and the interest. The interest

of the organisation are not stable, fixed is required to be paid irrespective of the

charged funds like preference shares firm earning a profit or incurring a loss.

and debentures should be carefully (vi) Control: A particular source of

selected as these add to the financial fund may affect the control and power

burden of the organisation. of the owners on the management of a

(iii) Form of organisation and legal firm. Issue of equity shares may mean

status: The form of business dilution of the control. For example, as

organisation and status influences the equity share holders enjoy voting

choice of a source for raising money. A rights, financial institutions may take

partnership firm, for example, cannot control of the assets or impose

raise money by issue of equity shares conditions as part of the loan

as these can be issued only by a joint agreement. Thus, business firm should

stock company. choose a source keeping in mind the


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202 BUSINESSSTUDIES

extent to which they are willing to share provisions, detailed investigation and

their control over business. documentation in case of borrowings

(vii) Effect on credit worthiness: The from banks and financial institutions

dependence of business on certain for example may be the reason that a

sources may affect its credit worthiness business organisations may not

in the market. For example, issue of prefer it, if other options are readily

secured debentures may affect the available.

interest of unsecured creditors of the (ix) Tax benefits: Various sources

company and may adversely affect may also be weighed in terms of their

their willingness to extend further tax benefits. For example, while the

loans as credit to the company. dividend on preference shares is not

(viii) Flexibility and ease: Another tax deductible, interest paid on

aspect affecting the choice of a debentures and loan is tax deductible

source of finance is the flexibility and and may, therefore, be preferred by

ease of obtaining funds. Restrictive organisations seeking tax advantage.

Key Terms

Finance Owned capital Fixed capital

Working capital Borrowed capital Short term sources

Restrictive conditions Long term sources Charge on assets

Voting power Fixed charge funds Accounts receivable

Bill discounting Factoring GDRs

FCCBs ADRs

SUMMAR

Y

Meaning and significance of business

finance:

Finance required by

business to establish and run its operations is known as business finance.

No business can function without adequate amount of funds for undertaking

various activities. The funds are required for purchasing fixed assets (fixed

capital requirement), for running day-to-day operations (working capital

requirement), and for undertaking growth and expansion plans in a businessorganisation.

Classification of sources of funds: Various sources of funds available to a

business can be classified according to three major basis, which are

(i) time period (long, medium and short term), (ii) ownership (owners funds

and borrowed funds), and (iii) source of generation (internal sources and

external sources).


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203

Long, medium and short-term sources of funds: The sources that provide

funds for a period exceeding 5 years are called long-term sources. The

sources that fulfill the financial requirements for the period of more than

one year but not exceeding 5 years are called medium term sources and

the sources that provide funds for a period not exceeding one year are

termed as short term sources.

Owners funds and borrowed

funds:

Owners funds refer to the funds that

are provided by the owners of an enterprise. Borrowed capital, on the other

hand, refers to the funds that are generated through loans or borrowings

from other individuals or institutions.

Internal and external sources: Internal sources of capital are those sourcesthat are generated within the business say through ploughing back of profits.

External sources of capital, on the other hand are those that are outside

the business such as finance provided by suppliers, lenders, and investors.

Sources of business finance: The sources of funds available to a business

include retained earnings, trade credit, factoring, lease financing, public

deposits, commercial paper, issue of shares and debentures, loans from

commercial banks, financial institutions and international sources of

finance.

Retained earnings: The portion of the net earnings of the company that is

not distributed as dividends is known as retained earnings. The amount of

retained earnings available depends on the dividend policy of the company.

It is generally used for growth and expansion of the company.

Trade credit: The credit extended by one trader to another for purchasing

goods or services is known as trade credit. Trade credit facilitates the

purchase of supplies on credit. The terms of trade credit vary from one

industry to another and are specified on the invoice. Small and new firms

are usually more dependent on trade credit, as they find it relatively difficult

to obtain funds from other sources.

Factoring: Factoring has emerged as a popular source of short-term funds

in recent years. It is a financial service whereby the factor is responsible

for all credit control and debt collection from the buyer and provides

protection against any bad-debt losses to the firm. There are two methods

of factoring recourse and non-recourse factoring.

Lease financing: A lease is a contractual agreement whereby the owner ofan asset (lessor) grants the right to use the asset to the other party (lessee).

The lessor charges a periodic payment for renting of an asset for some

specified period called lease rent.

Public

deposits:

A company can raise funds by inviting the public to deposit

their savings with their company. Pubic deposits may take care of both long

and short-term financial requirements of business. Rate of interest on deposits

is usually higher than that offered by banks and other financial institutions.


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204 BUSINESSSTUDIES

Commercial paper (CP): It is an unsecured promissory note issued by afirm to raise funds for a short period The maturity period of commercial

paper usually ranges from 90 days to 364 days. Being unsecured, only

firms having good credit rating can issue the CP and its regulation comes

under the purview of the Reserve Bank of India.

Issue of equity shares: Equity shares represents the ownership capital of

a company. Due to their fluctuating earnings, equity shareholders are calledrisk bearers of the company. These shareholders enjoy higher returns during

prosperity and have a say in the management of a company, through

exercising their voting rights.

Issue of preference shares: These shares provide a preferential right tothe shareholders with respect to payment of earnings and the repaymentof capital. Investors who prefer steady income without undertaking higher

risks prefer these shares. A company can issue different types of preference

shares.

Issue of debentures: Debenture represents the loan capital of a company

and the holders of debentures are the creditors. These are the fixed chargedfunds that carry a fixed rate of interest. The issue of debentures is suitable

in the situation when the sales and earnings of the company are relatively

stable.

Commercial banks: Banks provide short and medium-term loans to firms

of all sizes. The loan is repaid either in lump sum or in instalments. Therate of interest charged by a bank depends upon factors including the

characteristics of the borrowing firm and the level of interest rates in theeconomy.

Financial

institutions:

Both central and state governments haveestablished a number of financial institutions all over the country to provide

industrial finance to companies engaged in business. They are also called

development banks. This source of financing is considered suitable when

large funds are required for expansion, reorganisation and modernisation

of the enterprise.

International

financing:

With liberalisation and globalisation of the

economy, Indian companies have started generating funds from

international markets. The international sources from where the funds

can be procured include foreign currency loans from commercial banks,

financial assistance provided by international agencies and development

banks, and issue of financial instruments (GDRs/ ADRs/ FCCBs) ininternational capital markets.

Factors affecting choice: An effective appraisal of various sources must

be instituted by the business to achieve its main objectives. The selection

of a source of business finance depends on factors such as cost, financial

strength, risk profile, tax benefits and flexibility of obtaining funds. Thesefactors should be analysed together while making the decision for the choice

of an appropriate source of funds.


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205

EXERCISE

S

Multiple Choice

QuestionsTick ( ) the correct answer out of the given alternatives

1. Equity shareholders are called

(a) Owners of the company (b) Partners of the company

(c) Executives of the company (d) Guardian of the company

2. The term redeemable is used for

(a) Preference shares (b) Commercial paper

(c) Equity shares (d) Public deposits

3. Funds required for purchasing current assets is an example of

(a) Fixed capital requirement (b) Ploughing back of profits

(c) Working capital requirement (d) Lease financing

4. ADRs are issued in

(a) Canada (b) China(c) India (d) USA

5. Public deposits are the deposits that are raised directly from

(a) The public (b) The directors

(c) The auditors (d) The owners

6. Under the lease agreement, the lessee gets the right to

(a) Share profits earned (b) Participate in theby the lessor management of the

organisation(c) Use the asset for a (d ) Sell the assets

specified period

7. Debentures represent

(a) Fixed capital of the company ( b) Permanent capital of thecompany

(c) Fluctuating capital of (d) Loan capital of thethe company company

8. Under the factoring arrangement, the factor

(a) Produces and distributes (b) Makes the payment on

the goods or services behalf of the client(c) Collects the clients debt (d) Transfer the goods from

or account receivables one place to another

9. The maturity period of a commercial paper usually ranges from

(a) 20 to 40 days (b) 60 to 90 days(c) 120 to 365 days (d) 90 to 364 days


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206 BUSINESSSTUDIES

10. Internal sources of capital are those that are

(a) generated through outsiders (b) generated through loanssuch as suppliers from commercial banks

(c) generated through issue (d) generated withinof shares the business

Short Answer Questions

1. What is business finance? Why do businesses need funds? Explain.

2. List sources of raising long-term and short-term finance.

3. What is the difference between internal and external sources of raisingfunds? Explain.

4. What preferential rights are enjoyed by preference shareholders.

Explain.

5. Name any three special financial institutions and state their objectives.

6. What is the difference between GDR and ADR? Explain.

Long Answer Questions

1. Explain trade credit and bank credit as sources of short-term financefor business enterprises.

2. Discuss the sources from which a large industrial enterprise can raisecapital for financing modernisation and expansion.

3. What advantages does issue of debentures provide over the issue ofequity shares?

4. State the merits and demerits of public deposits and retained earningsas methods of business finance.

5. Discuss the financial instruments used in international financing.

6. What is a commercial paper? What are i ts advantages and limitations.

Projects/Assignment

1. Collect information about the companies that have issued debentures

in recent years. Give suggestions to make debentures more popular.

2. Institutional financing has gained importance in recent years. In ascrapbook paste detailed information about various financialinstitutions that provide financial assistance to Indian companies.

3. On the basis of the sources discussed in the chapter, suggest suitableoptions to solve the financial problem of the restaurant owner.

4. Prepare a comparative chart of all the sources of finance.


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