What is a junk debt?

Traditionally, "junk" debt is considered a loan to a corporation that has high interest rate on the money being borrowed. Sometimes this interest is quite high- 14-18%. Junk debt financing was a major financing tool in LBOs (Leveraged Buyouts) and other corporate takeovers. The amount of junk debt is contingent on future cash flows of the company and its ability to service the debt (pay the annual interest). The junk debt has to be an integral part of the acquisition, restructuring and strategic plan for the company. The company can service its debt but eventually it will need to paid off, or pay down the debt, or restructure the debt. All is contingent on future sales and earnings and how the management (usually new) handles these particular hurdles.