The Net debt/EBITDA of First Solar Inc is -14.25
The net debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (Net debt/EBITDA) ratio measures financial leverage and the company’s ability to pay off its debt. It shows how long it would take the company to pay off all its debt with operations at the current level.
The net debt to EBITDA ratio is calculated as Net debt divided by EBITDA. It is similar to the debt to EBITDA ratio, but cash and cash equivalents are subtracted in net debt.
Net debt = short-term debt + long-term debt - cash and cash equivalents
EBITDA = net income + interest expense + taxes + depreciation + amortization
Lower debt debt to EBITDA ratio indicates the company is not heavily indebted and should be able to repay its obligations. Alternatively, higher ratio indicated the company is excessively indebted. The ratio varies between industries as different industries have different capital requirements. Usually, the ratio should be compared to a benchmark or an industry average to determine the company’s credit risk. Generally, a net debt to EBITDA ratio above 4 or 5 is considered high.
first solar (nasdaq: fslr) is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (pv) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. the company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. from raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, first solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. for more information about first solar: - visit us on the web at http://www.firstsolar.com - follow us on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/firstsolar (@firstsolar) - subscribe to our blog at http://www.firstsolar.com/press-center/first-solar-blog - check us out on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/firstsolar