Overhead Ratio

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Definition of 'Overhead Ratio'

The overhead ratio is a measure of a company's operating expenses as a percentage of its revenue. It is calculated by dividing a company's operating expenses by its revenue. The higher the overhead ratio, the less profitable a company is.

There are two main types of overhead: fixed and variable. Fixed overhead costs are those that do not change with the level of production, such as rent, salaries, and insurance. Variable overhead costs are those that change with the level of production, such as materials and labor.

The overhead ratio is important because it can help investors and creditors assess a company's profitability. A high overhead ratio can indicate that a company is not efficient in its operations and may be struggling to make a profit. A low overhead ratio can indicate that a company is efficient in its operations and is making a good profit.

The overhead ratio can be used to compare companies within the same industry. A company with a lower overhead ratio than its competitors is likely to be more profitable.

The overhead ratio can also be used to track a company's performance over time. A decrease in the overhead ratio can indicate that a company is becoming more efficient in its operations.

The overhead ratio is a valuable tool for assessing a company's financial health. However, it is important to note that the overhead ratio is only one measure of a company's profitability. Other factors, such as sales growth and debt levels, should also be considered when evaluating a company.

Here are some additional points to consider about the overhead ratio:

* The overhead ratio is often used in conjunction with other financial ratios, such as the profit margin and return on equity, to get a more complete picture of a company's financial health.
* The overhead ratio can be calculated for a company as a whole or for individual departments or products. This can help managers identify areas where costs can be reduced.
* The overhead ratio can be affected by a number of factors, such as the size of the company, the industry in which it operates, and the economic climate.

Overall, the overhead ratio is a useful tool for assessing a company's profitability and efficiency. However, it is important to use the ratio in conjunction with other financial measures to get a complete picture of a company's financial health.

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