General Outlook on Financial Structure and Capital Adequacy of ISE-30 Companies during Economic Crisis (2008-2009)

Abstract

In the simplest terms, economic crises could be recognised as abnormal fluctuations adversely impacting market conditions. Despite subsequent economic recoveries, markets and the financial system remain in a period of significant uncertainty after such crises. The baseline scenario is for balance sheets to strengthen gradually as the economy recovers and as progress is made in addressing structural problems in financial positions. However, substantial downside risks always remain for companies. Even companies with a high “Capital Adequacy Ratio” (CAR) face the difficult challenge of managing a smooth transition to self-sustaining growth while stabilising debt burdens under low and uncertain economic prospects. Without further bolstering of balances sheets, markets remain susceptible to funding shocks that could intensify deleveraging pressures and place further drag on public finances and recovery. Companies have proven resilient to economic turbulence but are vulnerable to a slowdown and face risks in managing sizable and potentially volatile capital inflows. Policy actions need to be intensified to contain risks, address debt burdens, and implement effective and institutional frameworks to ensure financial stability. Based on this perspective and through applying the financial soundness indicators methodology, the financial structures and soundness indicators of the top 30 companies on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (ISE-30) are subjected to an assessment for determining the impact of the global crisis. The short- and long-run credits and non-monetary debit lines of ISE-30 companies are investigated together with the momentum of growth in assets, liabilities, and cash-flow stabilities. The financial soundness of ISE-30 companies is discussed in terms of the “capital-liabilities ratios” performance measure. Finally, the study focuses on long-run economic impacts and the analysis assumes that companies should transition to new levels of capital and liquidity to strengthen their financial stability and sustainability.