The accounting term EBITDA is an acronym that is widely used. It stands for Earnings Before Interest, Taxation, Depreciation, and Amortization, and it is an extremely helpful tool for understanding how one business or industry is faring based on comparing it to others that are doing the same thing. EBITDA’s value lies in the fact that it gives a very quick assessment of a business’s earnings potential; but, because it is not part of generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, it is frequently excluded from a business’s official financial statement.
Still, when a business owner is looking to attract additional investment or a potential buyer, EBITDA is often what is provided because it gives an easily understandable glimpse at earnings potential using existing information. With EBITDA, those who are assessing different businesses for possible investment are able to get an at-a-glance look at how the company is performing and use it to compare the business against companies that may be capitalized or accounting differently. The calculation is a simple formula, but requires access to the following information about a business:
- Income
- Expenses (excluding tax, interest, depreciation and amortization)
- Interest
- Taxes
- Depreciation of operational assets, such as equipment
- Amortization of intangible assets, such as patents
With those numbers in hand, the formula is:
EBITDA = Revenue – Expenses (excluding tax, interest, depreciation and amortization)
Or, more simply, EBITDA equals net income plus interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Whichever way you approach it, it is important to know that, as useful as EBITDA can be, it is only one way to gauge an organization’s financial health and potential.
Making the decision to invest in or purchase a business requires a comprehensive view that ensures that you are well informed.
If you need additional assistance calculating a small business EBITDA or other accounting ratios, contact the experts at Henssler Financial:
- Experts Request Form
- Email: experts@henssler.com
- Phone: 770-429-9166
Disclosures: This article is meant to provide valuable background information on particular investments, NOT a recommendation to buy. The investments referenced within this article may currently be traded by Henssler Financial. All material presented is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and current, but accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The contents are intended for general information purposes only. Information provided should not be the sole basis in making any decisions and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional, such as a tax consultant, insurance adviser or attorney. Although this material is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with respect to the subject matter, it may not apply in all situations. Readers are urged to consult with their adviser concerning specific situations and questions. This is not to be construed as an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments. It is not our intention to state, indicate or imply in any manner that current or past results are indicative of future profitability or expectations. As with all investments, there are associated inherent risks. Please obtain and review all financial material carefully before investing. Henssler is not licensed to offer or sell insurance products, and this overview is not to be construed as an offer to purchase any insurance products.
