By VestAI Research | Last updated: March 2026
Free Cash Flow: Meaning, Definition & Indian Stock Market Examples
Operating cash flow minus capex — actual cash available after maintaining business.
What is Free Cash Flow?
Free Cash Flow (FCF) = Operating Cash Flow − Capital Expenditure. It represents the cash a business generates after spending what is needed to maintain or grow assets. Consistent positive FCF is a strong sign of business quality; it funds dividends, buybacks, and debt repayment.
Free Cash Flow — Indian Stock Market Example
Infosys generates very high FCF (FCF yield ~4–5%) due to its asset-light model. TCS is famously referred to as a "cash machine" by analysts. Capital-intensive businesses like NTPC or steel companies have lower FCF because of ongoing capex requirements.
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Analyse with OrionFrequently Asked Questions about Free Cash Flow
Why is free cash flow better than net profit?
Net profit can be influenced by non-cash items and accounting choices (depreciation, provisions). FCF reflects actual cash entering the business, making it harder to manipulate and more relevant for valuing a company's true earning power.
What is FCF yield?
FCF Yield = Free Cash Flow per Share ÷ Stock Price × 100. It is similar to dividend yield but measures the total cash the company could theoretically return to shareholders. An FCF yield above 4–5% is generally considered attractive for value investors.
Related Terms
EBITDA
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation — proxy for operating cash flow.
Dividend
Cash distribution from company profits to shareholders.
Share Buyback
Company repurchasing its own shares — reduces share count, increases EPS.
Debt-to-Equity Ratio
Total debt divided by shareholder equity — measures financial leverage.
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