The US expression for the same thing is leverage . A highly geared company carries a lot of debt.
Geographic regions are as reported by the company.
Often used as a synonym for high quality. The return comes as capital gain. A global custodian, usually a bank, ensures clients cross-border investments are safe and sound. In the US, payment by a takeover target to a potential bidder, usually to buy back acquired shares at a premium in return for the predator not pursuing the bid. Total value of all goods and services produced domestically each year by a country.