There are four main types of capital in a company:
Equity capital: This is the money that is invested in the company by the shareholders.
It is the most important type of capital for a company, as it provides the company with
the funds it needs to operate and grow
Debt capital: This is the money that the
company borrows from lenders, such as banks. Debt capital is usually repaid with
interest over a period of time.
Working capital: This is the money that is
used to finance the day-to-day operations of the company, such as paying for wages,
rent, and supplies. A combination of equity capital and debt capital usually funds
working capital.
Trading capital: This is the money that is
used to buy and sell goods or services. Trading capital is usually funded by debt
capital.
The amount of each type of capital that a company needs will vary depending on the size
and stage of the company. For example, a startup company will typically need more equity
capital than a mature company.
The following are some of the key differences
between the four types of capital:
Equity capital: Equity capital is a
permanent source of financing for a company. It does not have to be repaid, and the
shareholders do not have to pay interest on it. However, the shareholders are the last
to get their money back if the company goes bankrupt.
Debt capital: Debt capital is a temporary
source of financing for a company. It has to be repaid, and the lenders charge interest
on it. However, the lenders have a lower priority than the shareholders if the company
goes bankrupt.
Working capital: Working capital is a
revolving source of financing for a company. It is used to finance the day-to-day
operations of the company, and it is constantly being replenished.
Trading capital: Trading capital is a
revolving source of financing for a company. It is used to buy and sell goods or
services, and it is constantly being replenished.
A company's capital structure is the mix of
equity capital, debt capital, working capital, and trading capital that the company uses
to finance its operations. The capital structure of a company will vary depending on the
company's financial situation, its risk appetite, and its strategic goals.