What is Trading on Equity?

What is Trading on Equity?

  • Calender06 Feb 2026
  • user By: BlinkX Research Team
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  • Trading on equity is a financial technique in which a business finances its operations using both shareholders' equity and borrowed cash, such as loans or debentures. This strategy's primary goal is to use debt at a fixed cost in order to boost returns for equity stockholders.
     

    Shareholders gain from increased profitability when company earnings exceed borrowing costs. To put it simply, trading on equity is the process of using loan capital to increase the earnings that equity stockholders can access.
     

    This article explains what is mean by trading on equity by discussing how it works, its benefits, risks, and important differences in order to assist readers in making informed financial decisions. 

    How Does Trading on Equity Works? 

    The following details describe how trading on equity works. 

    • A business can raise money by simultaneously borrowing money and issuing stock shares. 
    • Plans for corporate expansion or operations are funded by borrowed funds.  
    • Regardless of business profitability, interest on debt stays unchanged. 
    • Higher returns are given to equity stockholders when earnings rise. 
    • Even if profits drop, interest is still due. 
    • When the return on investment outweighs the cost of debt, this strategy works well. 

    Example of Trading on Equity 

    It is easier to define trading on equity when a straightforward example is provided. 
     

    Think about a business that needs ₹10 crore to grow. It raises ₹6 crore through stock and ₹4 crore through loans at a fixed interest rate rather than raising the full amount through equity shares. The interest on borrowed money stays the same but earnings available to equity stockholders rise if the expansion produces significant profits. 
     

    This example helps explain the trading on equity meaning as a tactic that increases shareholder returns during periods of strong corporate success. But even if profits decline, the business will still have to pay off its debt, which might lower shareholder returns. 

    Types of Equity Trading 

    Different types of trading on equity are mentioned below. 

    1. Debt Trading on Equity 

    In this kind of trading on equity, a business borrows funds by selling bonds, debentures, or similar interest-bearing securities and then invests the funds in successful ventures or assets. On borrowed sum, the business must reimburse a fixed interest rate that may be deducted from taxes. 

    2. Equity Trading on Equity 

    In this form of equity trading, a business issues preference shares to collect funds, which it then invests in successful endeavors or property. A tax-deductible set dividend that the corporation must pay on its preferred shares. 

    Advantages and Disadvantages 

    Trading stocks has advantages and possible risks, just like any other financial approach. 

     Advantages 

    Disadvantages 

       
    Helps retain control without issuing more shares Fixed interest obligations must be paid 
    Cost of debt is usually lower than equity Poor performance can reduce shareholder value 
    Enhances earnings per share Higher leverage increases insolvency risk 

     

    Difference between trading equity and trading on equity 

    Despite their similar names, trading on equity and equity trading have somewhat different functions. 

    Basis 

    Equity Trading 

    Trading on Equity 

    Meaning Buying and selling shares in the stock market Using borrowed funds to increase shareholder returns 
    Purpose Generate profit through market price movement Enhance earnings by using financial leverage 
    Risk Depends on market volatility Depends on business profitability and debt burden 
    Capital Involved Investor’s own funds Combination of equity and borrowed funds 

     

    Conclusion 

    Using borrowed money to increase profits for equity stockholders is known as trading on equity. When used properly, it can boost company growth and profitability. However, because of fixed interest commitments, it also entails financial risk. Investors are better able to assess a company's capital structure when they comprehend how this technique operates. 

    Using a trustworthy online trading app can make research, trading, and decision-making easier for people wishing to invest in the stock market or analyse such financial techniques.