What it represents
This is not the same as owning the premises or machine itself. The financial statements may show both a resource to use and an obligation to pay, and initial recognition does not necessarily correspond to a cash purchase of the asset. Subsequent depreciation, interest and payment describe different sides of the contract.
Limits of comparison
Do not exclude the lease debt from analysis while retaining a performance measure improved by its presentation. When comparing an owner and a lessee, align the assets, burden and cash payments. Renewal terms and the boundaries of the contract require separate review. Related reading: [financial statements roadmap](/guides/financial-statements-roadmap/) and [balance sheet](/guides/balance-sheet/).
