Investments or debts, a million-dollar question that most businesses ask themselves with faced with this dilemma. There are varied opinions when it comes to whether debts should be paid before investing or whether investing is needed first for the debts to be paid? As a business owner, it is crucial for you to fund the right investments and pay off the right debts after consulting an investment expert..
Now, most people in business are confused on how to do it properly especially if it is for the first time. They find the choice to be complicated and most of the time, they are not aware of what to do end up taking the wrong decision. This, of course, costs the business dear. Some businessmen claim it is better to invest rather than pay off debts while others claim otherwise.
Financial experts, on the other hand, a state in order to make the right choice, you must understand the returns you get from both. Ask yourself a simple question – which number is greater- the returns on your investment or the amount of debt you should pay off? Experts in financial management say if you are paying greater interest over you earn, it is prudent for you to clear your debts.
Check the situation and make the choice
The decision on whether you should pay debts or invest actually depends upon the situation and circumstances you are in. Here, you need to check the pros and cons of both. Experts say you need to take the debt and the investment to compare them side by side. It makes sense to pay off debts but at the same time saving and investing in your business does go the extra mile in expansion and growth. Most business owners say that borrowing is something they do not do willingly.
There are several reasons for them to go into debt. They often find themselves in a situation where they need to buy equipment or inventory. An emergency situation may arise where money lending is needed, and so debt has to be taken. Whatever the case, no businessman takes debts for pleasure. The lower the debt, the lesser is its risks and stress.
What about investments?
Most businessmen wish to invest in assets and funds as much as they can. However, again here they do not make the adequate market research to ascertain the best investments for their needs. Businesses can make small changes where they can pay debts and save at the same time. They can evaluate business practices and processes to save costs. It is here they should focus on setting up an emergency fund with the costs saved from business processes and practices that are redundant.
These cash reserves help them to eliminate the debts already taken. Even if small portions of the debt are paid, it gradually becomes less with the passage of time. This helps them to focus on the investment options in hand. It is crucial for businesses to have a consistent source of income to help them pay off debts. In this way, they can focus on new investment strategies to earn extra money. At present, the rental property investment strategy is the most popular, so you can invest money in properties.
The importance of financial management consultants
Experts say that when it comes to the choice of investing or paying off debts, consulting financial advisors is a smart step. They are aware of the external factors in the market that influence both. Esteemed name in the field of debt relief, says that smart businesses consult financial experts before they make a choice between debt and investment. It is prudent for the business to understand the financial scenario as well as the tax implications involved.
The rates of interest and the returns on investments are two major deciding factors that will influence your decision. When you are looking for more earnings, you should explore new revenue streams to give you that extra source of income to help you counter and eliminate debts. No business can survive on debts or investments alone. A wise business will balance both and make use of them wisely.
Understand debts and investments for your business
Every debt or investment impacts your business positively or adversely. It is your responsibility as a businessman to understand the terms and conditions of both. Making a list of the debts you need to will help you segregate the high-interest debts from the low-interest debts. It is crucial for you to pay off debts with high interest rates so that you can make room for investments with the passage of time.
The quicker your high-interest debts are cleared, the faster you are able to focus on investments and their rates of returns to eliminate other debts that have lesser rates of interest.
Financial records and statements – check them to make the right choice
When you are trying to make a choice between debts or investments, you must have an accurate and clear understanding of better financial option like financial records and statements. Check your debt to income figures and check to see the ratio. If the ratio of debt to income is too high, it makes sense first to pay off the debt rather than investing.
The sooner you get rid of debts, the better it is for you and your business experts add. Investments will only be wise if the returns generated are high and a portion of it can be used to pay off debts as well as cater to your daily business expenses.
Numerical figures help you to make wise choices when you need to compare investments and debts. Take time and never rush into making hurried decisions that will adversely affect your business. Check financial statements and balance sheets regularly.
Therefore, if you are stuck in the debate of whether to go in for investments or debts, take time and check the numbers. They will help you determine the right choice quickly. As a business owner, you need to live with both investments and debts. However, always remember to weigh the pros and cons of both before you choose!
