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Multiple Choice
When the times interest earned (TIE) ratio is less than 1.0, a company is ______.
A
experiencing strong profitability
B
unable to cover its interest expense from its operating income
C
increasing its retained earnings
D
generating enough income to pay dividends
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of the Times Interest Earned (TIE) ratio: The TIE ratio measures a company's ability to cover its interest expenses using its operating income. It is calculated using the formula: .
Interpret the TIE ratio: A TIE ratio greater than 1.0 indicates that the company generates sufficient operating income to cover its interest expenses. Conversely, a TIE ratio less than 1.0 means the company cannot fully cover its interest expenses from its operating income.
Analyze the implications of a TIE ratio less than 1.0: When the ratio is below 1.0, the company is unable to meet its interest obligations solely from its operating income, which may indicate financial distress or insufficient profitability.
Evaluate the provided options: Based on the definition and implications of the TIE ratio, determine which option aligns with the scenario where the TIE ratio is less than 1.0. The correct answer is 'unable to cover its interest expense from its operating income.'
Conclude the reasoning: The TIE ratio is a critical indicator of financial health, and a value below 1.0 signals that the company may need to rely on other sources of funds (e.g., retained earnings or external financing) to meet its interest obligations.