The capital structure puzzle – evidence from Indian energy sector

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine the factors affecting the capital structure of companies engaged in the Indian energy sector.Design/methodology/approachCapital structure theories and empirical literature have been reviewed to formulate propositions concerning the factors/variables determining the capital structure of Indian energy companies. The examination is done using panel data techniques for the sample 141 companies operating in the Indian energy sector.FindingsThe results show firms’ age, asset turnover ratio, liquidity and firms’ size to be significant determinants of capital structure for the Indian energy companies, while profitability, debt service capacity, sales growth, non-debt tax shield and tangibility ratio to be insignificant determinants. Historically, profitability has shared a significantly negative relationship with debt ratio; however, the relation here is not significant.Research limitations/implicationsThe focus of the current study is on Indian energy sector, the results obtained will not be applicable for other sectors.Originality/valueThe current research gives an insight into the determinants of capital structure of the companies engaged in the Indian energy sector, which are mostly overlooked due to the laws, policies and regulations governing the sector as a whole.