While many numbers and statistics frequently prove to be of limited value in judging stocks, there is one that is often undervalued: market cap.
Instead of focusing on debt-to-equity [link to debt to equity tag page M6W1] financial ratios exclusively, we recommend that you also look at the ratio between a company’s debt and its market capitalization or “market cap” (the value of all shares the company has outstanding).
Like shareholders’ equity, market cap may differ widely from the net value of a company’s assets. However, a moderate debt-to-market-cap ratio will tend to provide a conservative starting point for analyzing a company’s chances of survival.
A great example is Coca-Cola Co. (symbol KO on New York). The company has long-term debt of $12.7 billion, which represents a moderately high 39% of its $32.6-billion shareholders’ equity. But that debt is just 8.1% of its market cap.
The difference reflects the fact that the company’s balance sheet doesn’t show the true value of its most valuable asset — its so-called intellectual property. In Coke’s case, one key asset is the secret formula for Coca-Cola, which is reputedly carried on the company’s books at one dollar. More important, the Coke brand name carries no value on the company’s balance sheet. However, these are reflected in its huge market cap of $157.2 billion. So, put into perspective, the company’s debt is very low.
We encourage investors to learn about market cap and invest in blue chip stocks like Coca-Cola, TSI Network recommends using our three-part Successful Investor philosophy:
Most investors who successfully build wealth over the long term follow certain investing practices. Find out what they are in our FREE investing guide, The 10 Best Practices of Successful Investors.
A: Magna International Inc., $55.19, symbol MG on Toronto (Shares outstanding: 287.3 million; Market cap: $15.9 billion; www.magna.com), is one of the world’s largest auto suppliers.
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MCDONALD’S CORP., $303.76, New York symbol MCD, is your #1 Conservative Buy for 2024.
The company is the world’s largest fast-food chain with over 42,000 restaurants in 119 countries. It serves a wide variety of food but is best known for its hamburgers and french fries.
McDonald’s… Read More
TC ENERGY INC., $61.22, Toronto symbol TRP, is a buy.
TC generates steady cash flow for investors mainly through a 93,300-kilometre pipeline network that pumps natural gas from Alberta to eastern Canada and the U.S. It also owns gas pipelines in Mexico, and owns or invests… Read More
With their clean, renewable power, these two companies have strong conceptual appeal for investors. But just as important is their mix of hydroelectric, wind and solar power. That diversity, along with their long-term contracts, provides stable cash flows. It also lets these utility firms continue… Read More
The high payout provides a solid income for investors, as the current yield is not only exceptional but also backed by an 18-year track record of consecutive increases.
Verizon’s stock is also relatively cheaply valued, yet it’s in a strong market position that generates stable… Read More
The best mineral stocks to buy will have a broad base of steady operations and will be situated in politically stable jurisdictions among possessing other key factors
Top-quality stocks tend to lose less of their value in market setbacks, and they also tend to bounce back… Read More
MICROSOFT CORP., $428.02, Nasdaq symbol MSFT, remains a buy for aggressive investors.
The company is the world’s largest computer software firm. Its main product is the Windows operating system, which powers about 85% of the world’s personal computers. Its other main product—its Office suite, with its… Read More
Artificial intelligence (AI) is an example of an investment idea that could boost your investment returns—or more likely end up costing you money. All in all, we think that the biggest, surest gains from AI will come from investing in established businesses that are already… Read More
The company reported a 5.6% revenue increase driven by strategic acquisitions and ongoing long-term contracts. A big win for a 10.5GW agreement highlights the firm’s ability to secure large customers.
The firm is also planning to bring 7,000MW of new renewable capacity online in 2024 to… Read More
MICROSOFT CORP., $435.16, Nasdaq symbol MSFT, remains a buy for aggressive investors.
The company is the world’s largest computer software firm. Its main product is the Windows operating system, which powers about 85% of the world’s personal computers. Its other main product—its Office suite, with its… Read More
Learn everything you need to know in 'The Canadian Guide on How to Invest in Stocks Successfully' FREE Special Report from The Successful Investor.
How to Invest In Stocks Guide: Find 10 factors that make your investments safer and stronger.
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