Sustainable growth rate: Why it’s critical for business success

A sustainable growth rate (SGR) is crucial for a company to expand its operations over time without compromising financial stability by avoiding excessive external financing. SGR is determined by a company’s ability to increase revenue, manage costs, and maintain a healthy balance between debt and equity. This growth strategy not only ensures long-term profitability and scalability but also prevents potential debt burdens and loss of control over the business. In contrast to the price/earnings-to-growth (PEG) ratio, which evaluates a company's valuation against its expected growth, SGR focuses on internal capabilities to support growth. Calculating SGR involves determining the return on equity (ROE) and retention rate, with the formula SGR = ROE × retention rate. For example, a company with an ROE of 25% and a retention rate of 60% can achieve an SGR of 15%, allowing it to grow annually without substantial external funding. Understanding and utilizing SGR can help businesses develop effective growth strategies and appeal to potential investors.