4 min
17-Feb-2025
Capital receipts refer to funds received by an entity that do not contribute to its regular income but impact its financial position. These receipts either create liabilities (such as loans and borrowings) or reduce assets (such as selling land, machinery, or shares). They are non-recurring and used primarily for capital formation, infrastructure development, and long-term investments. Governments use capital receipts to finance deficits, while businesses utilise them for expansion and investment.
Debt-capital receipts
Debt-capital receipts refer to funds raised through borrowings, which must be repaid over time. These include:- Loans from financial institutions – Businesses and governments borrow from banks or financial institutions to fund long-term projects. These loans come with interest and repayment obligations.
- Government borrowings – The Indian government raises funds by issuing bonds, treasury bills, and securities. These instruments help manage fiscal deficits and finance infrastructure projects.
- External debt – Loans taken from foreign institutions, such as the World Bank or IMF, to finance large-scale development projects.
- Corporate borrowings – Private companies raise capital by issuing corporate bonds or taking business loans to expand operations.
Non-debt receipts
Non-debt capital receipts do not create repayment liabilities. These include:- Disinvestment – The government sells stakes in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to generate funds without increasing liabilities.
- Recovery of loans – Repayment of loans previously given to states, businesses, or foreign governments adds to non-debt capital receipts.
- Divestment of assets – Governments and companies sell properties, shares, or other assets to raise capital without incurring debt.
Capital receipts in terms of private entities
For businesses and private entities, capital receipts come from sources that strengthen financial stability without affecting regular income. These include:- Equity infusion – Companies raise capital by issuing new shares to investors, expanding their financial base.
- Asset sales – Businesses sell properties, machinery, or intellectual property to generate funds for new investments.
- Venture capital – Startups and growing businesses receive investments from venture capital firms in exchange for equity stakes.