The capital structure is managed to support RELX’s objective of maximising long-term shareholder value through appropriate security of funding, ready access to debt and capital markets, cost-effective borrowing and flexibility to fund business and acquisition opportunities while maintaining appropriate leverage to ensure an efficient capital structure. Over the long-term, RELX seeks to maintain cash flow conversion of 90% or higher and credit rating agency metrics that are consistent with a solid investment grade credit rating. These metrics as defined by the rating agencies include net debt to EBITDA, including and excluding pensions and leases, and various measures of cash flow as a percentage of net debt. RELX uses the cash flow it generates to fund capital expenditure required to drive organic growth, to make selective acquisitions and to provide a growing dividend to shareholders, while retaining balance sheet strength to maintain access to cost-effective sources of borrowing. Share repurchases are undertaken to maintain an efficient balance sheet.
(1) Net debt / EBITDA includes leases per IFRS 16 and the net pension deficit and is calculated in USD. Figures for June are on a last twelve month basis.