The impact of positive operating cash on bonds’ pricing international evidence

Abstract

This paper aims to ascertain the relationship existing between the ratings of bonds and the ending cash balance of the operating section in the cash flow statement. In our study, which lasted for 18 years, 600 companies were selected from 26 countries to construct our sample. With purpose of detecting how the positive cash balance of the operating section in the cash flow statement characters the likelihood of rising the bonds ratings, we have applied a Probit regression analysis. Consequently, a robust proof stating that the bonds ratings are significantly impacted by the positive operating cash balance. That is to say, generating enough cash flow from the operating activities increases the company’s chances to have greater bonds ratings raises, meanwhile lowering the cost of debt given that higher bond ratings decreases the cost of company for raising funds (in the form of bonds). More confirmation to the creditors’ rights shields was added through our outcomes, in addition to its impact on the cost of debt.