What is Positive Carry? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

Positive carry refers to a financial strategy where the cost of financing an investment is lower than the income generated from that investment. In simpler terms, it involves holding two offsetting positions: one position generates cash flow that exceeds the financial obligations of the other. This strategy is beneficial because it allows investors to earn a profit from the difference between the income and costs associated with their investments. The opposite of positive carry is known as negative carry, where costs exceed returns.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: An investor purchases a bond that pays an interest rate of five percent while borrowing funds at a rate of three percent. The positive carry in this situation is two percent, which represents the profit earned from the investment.

Example 2: A real estate investor may finance a property purchase with a loan at four percent interest while collecting rental income at six percent. This results in a positive carry of two percent, allowing the investor to benefit from the cash flow.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Difference
Negative Carry The situation where the cost of financing exceeds the income generated. Opposite of positive carry; results in a loss rather than a profit.
Cash Flow The total amount of money being transferred into and out of a business. Cash flow is a broader term that includes all income and expenses, while positive carry specifically refers to the profit from financing costs.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe positive carry applies to your financial situation, consider reviewing your investment strategies. You may want to explore legal templates from US Legal Forms to help structure your investments effectively. If your situation is complex or involves significant financial decisions, consulting with a legal professional is advisable to ensure you make informed choices.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Positive carry occurs when investment income exceeds financing costs, while negative carry happens when costs exceed income, leading to a loss.