Q11.
Since HBS wants KSNB to fund a short-term loan of $450,000, so
Current Ratios: CA/CL
Quarter 2
Quarter 3
4345.4/1110.1=3.91
4077.3/680.9=5.99
Herein these two quarters of peak seasons, the current ratios or the working capital ratios are very much greater than that of the ideal situation (i.e. between 1.2 and 2.0). Here, KCNB can consider giving the loan to HBS.
For further analysis KCNB can consider the debt ratios of the HBS as well.
In this scenario, the debt ratio although is increasing but still it is way lesser than that of the industry average, so it is quite considerable for the KCNB to give the loan to the HBS.
Miller must consider the interest coverage ratio also because if in future HBS would want to restructure the loan for long term then this ratio will help them in considering that point of view as well
Interest coverage ratio = EBIT/interest expense
1992
1993
1994
1995
390.4/17.1=22.83
307.7/15.9=19.35
333.8/10.4=32.096
473.5/17.1=27.7
These are the two quarters in which cash is needed by HBS for working capital management, so these above calculated ratios clearly indicate that it will be safer for the Miller to grant HBS a short-term loan.
(b)Following are the additional information that would be helpful in making a more informed decision:
Monthly financial statements of the business
Monthly Cash flow Statements
Forecasted Income Statement, Cash Flow and Balance Sheet of upcoming years
Q12.
Yes, indeed the increase in sales of HBS during the peak season affects the working capital drastically
As cash cycle is inversely related to the working capital
Working capital = inventory + a/c receivables – a/c payables
While,
Cash cycle = inventory Period +average collection period – average payable period
Due to increase in sales the inventory decreases while the account receivables increase. Moreover In this case, the inventory does not show a significant change while the account receivables show a huge difference of about two folds in the peak season. So, here in this case, it is the account receivables which are the main cause of lengthened cash cycle.
Q13.
Miller is interested in monthly statements because through them he would be in a better position to judge the monthly performance of the company. A cumulative quarter result may misguide, although it still feels feasible, but there may be some loopholes in them. For instance, there may be chances of window dressing to obtain loans from them. Monthly statements present a better and clear liquidity position of the firm.