Bonds
America Movil Plans to Issue More Peso-Denominated Debt(Following CFO's Assertion of Market Growth)
2024-12-02
America Movil SAB, a leading telecommunications company in Latin America, is set to issue more peso-denominated debt. With its finance chief emphasizing the importance of aligning financing with revenues, the company is prioritizing the Mexican market. Carlos Garcia Moreno, a finance veteran with over 20 years of CFO experience, explains how the domestic market is now providing the necessary funding. Since launching its peso bond program in 2023, America Movil has raised about $3 billion, with the most recent transaction in March bringing in $1 billion. It has become the leading issuer of such bonds, with other borrowers including multilateral lenders and international banks. The company has issued 5-year, 7-year, and 10-year peso bonds and plans to expand its local debt portfolio. The yield on its long bond over the comparable government bond has declined by about 22 basis points, indicating strong investor demand. Currently, peso bonds represent about 30% of the company's outstanding bonds, and issuing in local currency is cheaper. America Movil's peso notes are Euroclearable, allowing international investors to hold the debt. Going forward, the company plans to issue peso-denominated debt two to three times a year, targeting a mix of foreign and local investors. Mexico's central bank's recent interest rate cuts and the company's diverse operations in different geographies and business lines also play a significant role in its debt strategy.

America Movil's Focus on Peso-Denominated Debt for Financial Alignment

Benefits of Peso-Denominated Debt

Issuing peso-denominated debt offers several advantages for America Movil. Firstly, it can be cheaper compared to other currencies, reducing borrowing costs. As the company generates a significant portion of its revenues in Mexico, aligning the financing with local currency makes financial sense. Secondly, the Euroclearable nature of its peso notes allows international investors to participate, expanding the investor base and potentially increasing demand. This diversification in funding sources helps the company manage its financial risks more effectively.

Moreover, with Mexico's central bank's interest rate cuts and the company's diverse operations, peso-denominated debt provides stability and flexibility. It allows the company to tap into the domestic market, which accounts for around 40% of its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. This diversification in funding and operations helps America Movil navigate through different economic conditions and maintain a strong financial position.

Market Demand and Investor Confidence

The strong demand for America Movil's peso bonds is evident from the decline in the yield on its long bond over the comparable government bond. This indicates that investors have confidence in the company's financial health and growth prospects. The company's leading position in the peso bond market further enhances its credibility and attracts more investors. As it plans to issue peso-denominated debt two to three times a year, it is likely to continue to meet the market's demand and maintain a stable funding source.

Investors are also attracted by America Movil's diverse operations across Latin America. The company provides broadband, wireless, and other services, reducing its dependence on a single market or business line. This diversification helps mitigate risks and provides a stable revenue stream, making its peso-denominated debt an attractive investment option. The company's target of having local investors account for about 60% of the debt sold in recent months shows its focus on building a strong relationship with the domestic market.

Future Outlook and Financial Strategy

Looking ahead, America Movil's peso-denominated debt strategy is expected to play a crucial role in its financial growth. By prioritizing the Mexican market and issuing local currency debt, the company can align its financing with revenues and manage its financial risks more effectively. The company's plans to issue debt two to three times a year and target a mix of foreign and local investors demonstrate its commitment to maintaining a balanced funding structure.

However, the company also needs to navigate through various maturities in the coming years, including for peso- and euro-denominated bonds. It will need to carefully manage its debt portfolio and ensure timely repayments to maintain its creditworthiness. Additionally, the company will need to monitor economic conditions and interest rate trends to make informed decisions about its debt issuances. Overall, America Movil's peso-denominated debt strategy is a key part of its long-term financial plan and will play a significant role in its future success.

The US Treasury Market Reverses, USD/JPY Falls
2024-12-02
The early selloff in the US Treasury market, which had seen yields rise by 3-5 bps across the curve, has now been reversed, with yields nearly flat on the day. US 2s have seen an increase of 2 bps, while 30s have decreased by 2 bps. This sudden change has had a significant impact on the US dollar, which is currently falling, especially against the yen and is at its lowest level since October 20.

Unraveling the Mystery of the Catalyst

In this current market scenario, one question that remains unanswered is what exactly is the catalyst for this sudden move. It seems to have come out of nowhere, leaving market participants puzzled. The stability in yields and the subsequent fall in the US dollar have raised several eyebrows and sparked discussions among financial experts.

Analysts are closely monitoring the situation to try and identify the underlying factors that have led to this unexpected turn of events. Will it be a short-term fluctuation or a sign of a more significant trend? Only time will tell as the market continues to evolve.

Implications for the US Economy

The reversal in the Treasury market and the fall in the US dollar have important implications for the US economy. A weaker dollar can make US exports more competitive in international markets, potentially boosting economic growth. However, it also means that imports will become more expensive, which could have an impact on inflation.

Moreover, the stability in yields indicates that the market is currently in a state of flux. This could have implications for interest rates and borrowing costs, which in turn can affect various sectors of the economy such as housing and business investment. It remains to be seen how these factors will play out in the coming months.

Global Market Repercussions

The impact of the US Treasury market reversal is not limited to the domestic market. As the US dollar weakens against other major currencies, it can have ripple effects across global markets. Other countries with significant dollar-denominated assets may see the value of their holdings decline.

For example, countries with large foreign exchange reserves held in US dollars may need to reassess their portfolios and consider diversifying their holdings. This could lead to changes in global capital flows and have an impact on financial markets around the world.

Investor Sentiment and Market Outlook

The sudden move in the Treasury market and the subsequent fall in the US dollar have also had an impact on investor sentiment. Market participants are now more cautious and are closely monitoring the situation for any further developments.

Looking ahead, the market outlook remains uncertain. While some believe that this could be a short-term correction, others are concerned that it may be the beginning of a more significant trend. Investors will need to carefully assess the risks and opportunities and make informed decisions based on their investment strategies.

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CABEI's First Sustainable Bond Issuance Under New Framework
2024-12-03
The world of finance is constantly evolving, and sustainable finance is at the forefront. In Latin America, there are exciting developments happening in this crucial field. Let's dive in and explore the latest news and opportunities.

Central American Bank for Economic Integration's Sustainable Bond Sale

The Central American Bank for Economic Integration has made significant strides in the realm of sustainable finance. It recently raised TRY1.2 billion ($34.7 million) through its first sale of sustainable bonds under a newly published financing framework. This deal was expertly structured by BNP Paribas, and while specific pricing details were not provided, it marks an important milestone. The bank intends to utilize the proceeds to fund a wide range of eligible ESG projects. These projects encompass various aspects such as forest conservation, the transition to renewable energy, clean transportation, wastewater management, sustainable housing, and access to healthcare and educational services. This framework opens up avenues for further sustainable development in the region. Additionally, the bank has the flexibility to issue green, social, and blue bonds under this framework, expanding its options for financing. In October, the bank raised IDR555 million ($35.6 million) in its first sale of social bonds in Indonesian rupiahs. It has also tapped the Costa Rican bond market with dual-tranche deals on two occasions this year and issued social bonds in the Mexican market twice. Furthermore, it sold the world's first maternal health bonds privately to Japan's Meiji Yasuda Life insurance company. These initiatives showcase the bank's commitment to making a positive impact through sustainable finance.The sustainable finance landscape in Latin America is filled with potential and innovation. By staying informed about these developments, investors and stakeholders can play a crucial role in driving positive change and creating a more sustainable future.
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