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Do publicly listed companies need a credit rating to issue bonds and convertible bonds?

When a publicly listed company seeks to raise capital, it may consider issuing bonds or convertible bonds. A bond is a debt security that obligates the issuer to repay the principal amount and interest to the investor, while a convertible bond allows the investor to convert the bond into shares of the company's stock. But does a publicly listed company need a credit rating to issue these securities? The answer is no, but it may still be beneficial to have one.



A credit rating is an assessment of the creditworthiness of an issuer, indicating its ability to repay its debts. While a credit rating is not a requirement for issuing bonds or convertible bonds, it can influence the pricing of the securities and the level of demand from investors. A higher credit rating can result in lower interest rates and attract more investors, while a lower credit rating can result in higher interest rates and limited demand.


Publicly listed companies without a credit rating or with a lower credit rating may still be able to issue bonds and convertible bonds, but may face challenges in pricing the securities and attracting investors. In such cases, publicly listed companies may consider alternative financing options such as private placements or bank loans.


A private placement is a sale of securities to a select group of investors, such as pension funds, insurance companies or high net worth individuals, without the need for a public offering. Private placements can provide publicly listed companies with greater flexibility in structuring the terms of the securities and may not require a credit rating.


Bank loans are another alternative financing option available to publicly listed companies. Bank loans may be secured or unsecured and may have fixed or variable interest rates. Publicly listed companies may also consider syndicated loans, which involve multiple banks providing funding to the borrower.


In conclusion, while a credit rating is not a requirement for publicly listed companies seeking to issue bonds and convertible bonds, it can influence the pricing of the securities and the level of demand from investors. Publicly listed companies without a credit rating or with a lower credit rating may consider alternative financing options such as private placements or bank loans. It is important for publicly listed companies to carefully consider their financing options and consult with their financial advisors before making any decisions.


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For further information, please contact info@langdoncap.com


About the author


Sabbir Rahman is Managing Director of Langdon Capital. He has held prior roles with Morgan Stanley, Lazard and Barclays Investment Bank. He has executed over £60 billion in notional value of transactions across financing, M&A and derivatives with global corporates, private equity funds and financial sponsor groups.


About Langdon Capital


With a network of 700+ alternative investors, Langdon Capital raises debt and equity capital between £1m and £25m for high-growth and innovative companies in the technology, environmental impact and renewable energy sectors, who are preferably beyond a Series A funding round or equivalent, to help them fulfil their paths to profitability and growth ambitions.




This is not financial advice or any offer, invitation or inducement to sell or provide financial products or services or to engage in any form of investment activity.

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