Efficient working capital management, bond quality rating, and debt refinancing risk

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of efficient working capital management (WCM) on a firm's bond quality ratings (BQR) and debt refinancing risk (RFR). Design/methodology/approach To fulfill its purpose, this study adopted a co-relational research design. Additionally, the COMPUSTAT of Wharton Research Data Services was used to collect data from American production firms for a period of five years (from 2013 to 2017). Findings The results of this study suggest that efficient WCM does, in fact, play a role in improving BQR of American production firms. Furthermore, the findings go on to suggest that efficient WCM plays a very little role in reducing RFR for American production firms. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature on financial factors that improve a firm's BQR. Firms should consider maintaining an optimal net working capital as it improves BQR. Moreover, the findings of this study may prove useful for financial managers, investors, financial management consultants and other stakeholders.