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19.03.2024
Macy's Bond Yield Falls Amid Takeover Optimism
Macy's Bond Yield Falls Amid Takeover Optimism
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Macy's bond yield drops as investors enhance take-private bid, pressuring company to consider $6.58 billion offer amid concerns over undervaluation and potential hostile takeover amidst sales growth struggles.

The Macy's Retail Holdings 5.875% Apr 2029 USD bond (US55617LAP76) has seen a remarkable shift in its yield, decreasing by 66 basis points to 6.3% over the past three weeks, while its Z-spread now stands at 173 basis points.

Yield curve illustration showing the performance of the Macy's Retail Holdings bond (US55617LAP76), with a 5.875% coupon, due on April 1, 2029, in US dollars.

The movement in the bond's yield correlates with the recent developments surrounding Macy's take-private bid. Investors Arkhouse Management and Brigade Capital have sweetened their offer, driving Macy's shares up by 16%. The revised bid values the department store operator at $6.58 billion, with an increased offer price of $24 per share. This represents a significant 38% premium to Macy's closing price when deal talks initially surfaced.

Despite the surge in share price, Macy's is yet to open its books to the bidders, pending a review of the new offer. Previous concerns regarding deal financing and valuation have been addressed, with Arkhouse indicating commitments from global lenders to finance the deal pending due diligence. Analysts suggest that a higher bid could compel Macy's board to consider the offer more seriously.

The pressure on Macy's to cooperate with the investment group stems from the company's ongoing struggle to maintain sales growth and profitability amidst stiff competition and elevated inflation. Analysts warn that refusal to engage in negotiations could expose Macy's to the risk of a hostile takeover. Arkhouse has further intensified pressure by nominating nine director candidates to Macy's board, signaling its intent for strategic changes.

Macy's recent unveiling of a turnaround plan, which includes store count reductions and efforts to revive sales at luxury labels like Bloomingdale's and Bluemercury, reflects the company's response to shareholder concerns. Despite these efforts, Macy's forward price-to-earnings multiple remains lower than industry peers, indicating potential undervaluation.

The company's senior unsecured debt is rated as follows: 'BBB-' by Fitch, 'BB+' by S&P, and 'Ba2' by Moody's.

The Yield Map for Macy's Retail Holdings bonds denominated in USD as of March 12, 2024:

The Yield Map for Macy's Retail Holdings bonds denominated in USD as of March 12, 2024.

About Macy's

Macy's, Inc. specializes in retailing apparel, accessories, cosmetics, home furnishings, and various consumer goods. Its portfolio comprises well-known brands such as Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Bluemercury. The company provides a wide range of products including men's, women's, and children's apparel, accessories, intimate apparel, shoes, cosmetics, fragrances, as well as home and miscellaneous items. Established by Rowland H. Macy in 1858, the company is based in New York, NY. Macy's, Inc. has a market capitalization of $5.82 billion as of March 18, 2024.

This article does not constitute investment advice or personal recommendation. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bondfish does not recommend using the data and information provided as the only basis for making any investment decision. You should not make any investment decisions without first conducting your own research and considering your own financial situation.