Sun Dec 8, 2024

Do you remember the iconic scene from Mujhse Shaadi Karoge where Salman Khan divides his earnings into three piggy banks for specific purposes—his grandmother’s operation, sister’s education, and his own marriage? 

That scene beautifully illustrates the concept of reserves in finance. Just like Salman allocates his earnings for future needs, companies set aside portions of their profits for specific goals.

Welcome to Day 6 of our 50 Days Finance Challenge, where we’ll uncover the role and importance of Reserves and Surplus in a company’s financial health | What Are Reserves and How Are They Created?

In simple terms, reserves are profits retained by a company after distributing dividends to shareholders. Let’s break it down:

  1. Profit After Tax (PAT):
    After covering expenses, interest, and taxes, the remaining profit (PAT) is divided into two parts:
    • A portion is distributed to shareholders as dividends.
    • The remaining is retained by the company as retained earnings, forming the reserves.
Example:
Imagine a company earns ₹100 crore as PAT.
  • If 40% is distributed as dividends (₹40 crore), the remaining 60% (₹60 crore) is retained as reserves.
  • These reserves appear on the company’s balance sheet and strengthen its financial position.

Types of Reserves Companies create different types of reserves based on their financial strategies and needs. 

Let’s explore some common ones:

a) Sinking Fund Reserve:Created to accumulate funds for repaying long-term liabilities or replacing significant assets.

Example: Funds set aside for building repairs or replacement after its lifecycle.

b) Depreciation Reserve: Helps cover the cost of replacing assets like machinery, ensuring no financial shock when the replacement becomes necessary.

c) Capital or Debenture Redemption Reserve: If a company issues redeemable shares or debentures, it creates a reserve to ensure timely repayment to investors.

d) Statutory Reserve: Certain industries, like banking, are legally required to transfer a portion of profits to reserves as per regulatory guidelines.

e) General Reserve: A flexible reserve created without a specific purpose. Companies use it for expansion, contingencies, or other strategic goals.

f) Contingency Reserve: Set aside to prepare for potential liabilities like court cases or penalties that might arise in the future.

Why Are Reserves Important? 

Reserves act as a financial safety net, ensuring a company can:

  • Handle emergencies smoothly.
  • Fund growth and expansion without taking on excessive debt.
  • Maintain operational stability even in challenging times.
Additionally, reserves contribute to a company's book value, which reflects its net worth, boosting investor confidence.

How Companies Utilize Reserves?

An efficient finance manager ensures reserves are invested rather than lying idle. These investments generate returns, further strengthening the company’s financial position. Think of it as placing Salman’s piggy bank money into profitable ventures!

A Fun Fact: Reserves as Liabilities?

Interestingly, reserves appear as liabilities on the balance sheet. Why? 

Because a company is a separate legal entity from its shareholders. The company owes its profits (including reserves) to its shareholders, making it a liability in accounting terms.



Wrapping Up

Reserves are more than just savings; they’re strategic tools that ensure a company’s resilience and future growth. Whether it’s funding emergencies, expansions, or paying dividends, reserves are the backbone of a sound financial structure.

Stay tuned for Day 7 of the 50 Days Finance Challenge, where we’ll dive into another crucial financial concept. Until then, keep learning and investing in your knowledge!Happy Learning! 😊

Prof. Sheetal Kunder

SEBI® Research Analyst. Registration No. INH000013800 M.Com, M.Phil, B.Ed, PGDFM, Teaching Diploma (in Accounting & Finance) from Cambridge International Examination, UK. Various NISM Certification Holders. Ex- BSE Institute Faculty. 16 years of extensive experience in Accounting & Finance. Faculty Development Programs and Management Development Programs at the PAN India level to create awareness about the emerging trends in the Indian Capital Market and counsel hundreds of students in career choices in the finance area.