Edwin Wilches, Co-Head of Securitized Products at PGIM Fixed Income, dives into the booming world of asset-based finance (ABF). He discusses how ABF is reshaping investment portfolios and the factors driving its popularity. The conversation highlights trends like music royalty securitization and the critical role of non-depository institutions in today’s credit market. Edwin also navigates the nuances of independent decision-making in ABF, emphasizing the importance of technology and specialized teams for successful investment strategies.
The surge in asset-based finance (ABF) is largely driven by regulatory changes post-global financial crisis, enabling non-bank institutions to thrive.
A disciplined research approach and effective asset evaluation are essential for successful investment strategies in the evolving ABF sector.
Deep dives
Understanding Asset-Based Finance (ABF)
Asset-based finance (ABF) is defined as lending secured by specific assets that generate contractual cash flows, which can encompass consumer assets like auto loans and credit cards, as well as hard assets from various commercial sectors. This definition illustrates the breadth of ABF, suggesting its significance within a market that includes trillions of dollars in assets. Notably, the recent resurgence in interest surrounding ABF echoes historical investments in securitized products, such as the pioneering securitization of David Bowie's music royalties. The integration of public and private investments under a dedicated credit team highlights the evolving nature of asset-backed financing as a reliable investment option.
Market Evolution and Regulatory Changes
Post-global financial crisis (GFC) regulatory changes reshaped bank balance sheets, creating opportunities for non-bank financial institutions to step in and take on previously bank-held assets. This shift has resulted from banks moving away from taking on riskier credit, thus allowing private credit and securitization markets to flourish. The shift in focus from large banks to regional banks after recent financial instabilities has further accentuated the liquidity gap, which ABF can effectively fill as the economy continues to grow. As assets previously on bank balance sheets come to market, private lenders are increasingly relied upon to meet financing needs that were once handled by traditional banking entities.
The Importance of Research and Independence
A robust research approach and a clear separation between sourcing and underwriting play crucial roles in establishing a successful ABF platform. Effective investment requires evaluating both the assets and the structures involved, necessitating a skilled team familiar with the regulatory risks and cash flow forecasting. Ensuring an independent research team enhances objectivity in risk assessment, allowing for better pricing and portfolio construction decisions. This disciplined framework fosters a more accurate estimation of risk, ultimately aiming to deliver superior investment outcomes.
Asset-based finance (ABF) has grown in popularity as an attractive alternative to traditional direct lending and its turning heads with those looking to capitalize on investment opportunities.
This episode of All the Credit® kicks off our new sub-series, Credit Markets in Transition, with an in-depth look at the rapidly growing ABF sector. We assess ABF's evolution, factors driving the surge in investment, its role within the financial ecosystem, and critical considerations for investors.
PGIM Fixed Income’s Brian Barnhurst, CFA, Head of Global Credit Research, hosts Edwin Wilches, CFA, Co-Head of Securitized Products.
Recorded on January 28, 2025.
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