Although debt markets do remain cautious and volatile, there are some encouraging signs with the global outlook slowly improving as inflation expectations start to soften.
Equally, whilst remaining selective, funders do have ‘dry powder’ to deploy for quality assets.
Higher interest expense does inevitably impact leverage profiles and debt service, but funders and particularly alternative and private debt funds remain open for well-prepared borrowers.
Businesses with short term expiry dates for facilities are looking to ‘amend and extend’ as a compromise and pushing out the timing of full refinance processes.
Funders are paying more attention to covenant headroom, sensitivity scenarios and EBITDA ‘add-backs’, with ESG ratchets also featuring more.
In the current climate, it is essential to be well-prepared for discussions with financial institutions. Below is a brief checklist to consider in advance of approaching and engaging with funding partners.
To read the full report, click here.
.
