Loan Stock
Loan stock refers to a way for companies to raise funds by issuing fixed-income securities, usually in the form of bonds or debentures. Investors purchase these securities in exchange for regular interest payments over time, with the principal amount repaid on a specified maturity date. Loan stocks are commonly used by corporations and governments to secure long-term financing.
Examples
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Corporate Bonds: A technology company issues corporate bonds to fund the construction of a new data center. Investors buy the bonds, agreeing to receive a fixed interest rate over ten years, after which the principal is repaid.
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Debentures: A manufacturing company issues unsecured debentures to finance an expansion project. The debentures promise to pay a semi-annual interest rate and will mature in 15 years, at which point the initial investment will be returned to the investors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the difference between loan stock and equity stock?
- A1: Loan stock represents a debt that needs to be repaid to the bondholders along with regular interest payments, whereas equity stock represents ownership in the company, and dividends are paid based on the company’s profitability and decisions made by the board.
Q2: How is interest on loan stock typically paid?
- A2: Interest on loan stock is usually paid regularly (e.g., quarterly, semi-annually, or annually) based on a fixed rate specified at issuance.
Q3: What happens at the maturity date of a loan stock?
- A3: At the maturity date, the issuer repays the principal amount borrowed to the bondholders, along with the final interest payment.
Q4: Are debentures secured?
- A4: Debentures are typically unsecured, meaning they are not backed by physical assets or collateral. They depend on the issuer’s creditworthiness and reputation.
Q5: Can individuals invest in loan stock?
- A5: Yes, individuals can invest in loan stock through the purchase of bonds, debentures, or other similar fixed-income securities via brokers or financial institutions.
Related Terms with Definitions
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Bond: A fixed-income instrument representing a loan made by an investor to a borrower, usually corporate or governmental.
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Debenture: A type of debt instrument that is not secured by physical assets or collateral, often carrying a higher risk and interest rate.
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Coupon Rate: The annual interest rate paid on a bond or loan stock, expressed as a percentage of the face value.
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Principal: The initial amount of money invested or loaned, which will be repaid at maturity.
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Maturity Date: The date on which the principal amount of a bond or loan stock is to be repaid to investors.
Online Resources
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Bond Book” by Annette Thau
- “Bonds: The Unbeaten Path to Secure Investment Growth” by Hildy Richelson and Stan Richelson
- “The Handbook of Fixed Income Securities” by Frank J. Fabozzi
Accounting Basics: “Loan Stock” Fundamentals Quiz
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