Answer

What is gearing and why does it matter?

Gearing measures how much a business relies on debt versus its own equity — high gearing means more risk, because debt has to be serviced whatever happens.

2 min read

Debt vs equityThe gearing ratio
High = riskLess cushion
Lenders watch itResilience test

What gearing shows

Gearing compares borrowed money with shareholders' equity. A highly geared business funds itself largely with debt, which magnifies returns in good times and losses in bad — and debt must be serviced regardless.

Why it matters for borrowing

Lenders watch gearing because it signals resilience. Moderate gearing shows a business that is not over-reliant on debt; high gearing means little cushion if trading dips. See how much debt is too much.

What it means for you

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally, and takes no personal guarantee. See business loans or apply online.

Frequently asked questions

Is high gearing bad?

Not automatically, but it raises risk because debt must be serviced whatever happens. Moderate gearing is healthier; high gearing leaves little room for a setback and worries lenders.

How do I reduce gearing?

Retain profits to build equity, repay debt, or raise equity investment. Lower gearing strengthens resilience and your borrowing case.

Funding for UK limited companies

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally — short-term working capital with no personal guarantee. See what your business could access.