Key Takeaway: Country Garden submits a preliminary debt restructuring proposal to creditors in a bid to avoid liquidation, as its cash flow outlook worsens amidst China's struggling property market.
Restructuring Proposal Details
Preliminary Terms Submitted:
- The proposal includes revised cash flow projections, indicating weaker cash flow in the coming years compared to earlier estimates.
- Aims to demonstrate the company’s ability to meet obligations.
Objective:
- To gain creditor support ahead of the next Hong Kong court hearing on Jan. 20, 2025.
Background
Default:
- Once China's largest developer, Country Garden defaulted on US$11 billion (RM49.2 billion) in offshore bonds late last year.
- Facing a liquidation petition in Hong Kong.
Missed Deadline:
- Initially planned to publish term sheets in September 2024 for creditor approval, but the deadline was missed.
China's Property Market Struggles
Economic Measures:
- Government efforts to revive the property sector have included:
- Tax incentives to lower home purchase costs.
- Rate cuts (25 basis points in October).
- Despite these, new home prices in October saw the largest YoY drop since 2015, and property investment declined 10.3% in the first 10 months of 2024.
Impact on Country Garden:
- The weak market conditions have made it difficult for the company to stabilize its finances and meet obligations.
Next Steps
Court Hearing:
- If creditors support the restructuring plan, Country Garden could seek an extension from the court to implement the proposal.
Adviser Involvement:
- PJT Partners represents key offshore bondholders in the talks, but no comments have been made regarding the current proposal.
Outlook
The success of Country Garden’s restructuring plan hinges on creditor support and the court’s approval. However, with worsening cash flow and a sluggish property market, the path forward remains uncertain. The case underscores the broader challenges faced by China’s heavily indebted real estate sector.
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