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What is Long-Term Debt?
Long-Term Debt refers to financial obligations that are due for repayment beyond one year. It is commonly used by businesses and governments to finance large investments such as infrastructure, expansion, acquisitions, or capital equipment.
Definition
Long-Term Debt is borrowing that matures in more than 12 months and is recorded as a non-current liability on the balance sheet.
Key Takeaways
- Repayment period exceeds one year.
- Used to finance long-term assets and growth initiatives.
- Impacts capital structure, risk, and interest obligations.
Understanding Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt allows organizations to spread the cost of major investments over time. Common forms include bonds, term loans, mortgages, and debentures. Because repayment occurs over many years, interest rates, covenants, and repayment schedules are critical considerations.
While long-term debt can accelerate growth, excessive borrowing increases financial risk and fixed obligations. Effective debt management balances growth ambitions with stable cash flow and prudent leverage.
Accounting standards require long-term debt to be disclosed separately from current liabilities, improving transparency for investors and lenders.
Formula (If Applicable)
Key measures related to long-term debt include:
- Debt-to-Equity Ratio: Total Debt ÷ Total Equity
- Debt Ratio: Total Debt ÷ Total Assets
- Interest Coverage Ratio: EBIT ÷ Interest Expense
Real-World Example
- A company issues 10-year bonds to fund a new manufacturing plant.
- A government finances highway construction through long-term sovereign debt.
- A business takes a long-term bank loan to acquire heavy machinery.
Importance in Business or Economics
Long-term debt is important because it:
- Enables large-scale investment and expansion.
- Shapes a firm’s capital structure and cost of capital.
- Influences credit ratings and investor perception.
- Plays a role in macroeconomic growth through capital formation.
Types or Variations
- Bonds Payable: Debt securities sold to investors.
- Term Loans: Bank loans with fixed repayment schedules.
- Mortgages: Debt secured by property or real assets.
- Debentures: Unsecured long-term debt instruments.
Related Terms
- Liabilities
- Capital Structure
- Leverage
Sources and Further Reading
- Investopedia – Long-term debt explained.
- Corporate Finance Institute – Debt structure and analysis.
- OECD – Government and corporate debt data.
Quick Reference
- Maturity: More than one year.
- Balance Sheet: Non-current liability.
- Purpose: Finance long-term assets and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is long-term debt better than short-term debt?
It depends. Long-term debt provides stability but often at higher interest cost.
Does long-term debt increase risk?
Yes, if cash flows are insufficient to meet interest and principal payments.
How do investors view long-term debt?
Moderate levels are normal; excessive debt raises solvency concerns.
