Global head of distressed and restructuring Max Frumes, distressed credit analyst Larry Feldman, and senior reporter Sasha Padbidri discuss Hertz's return to financial trouble due to EV investments and new debt. They explore the challenges faced by Hertz, including their transition to EVs, disputes over warrant issuance, and the uncertainties surrounding the company's turnaround plan.
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Quick takeaways
Hertz faced challenges with its EV fleet leading to heavy losses and financial uncertainties.
Investors evaluated Hertz's capital structure focusing on high cap stack bonds for favorable terms and uncertainties.
Deep dives
Hertz Electric Vehicle Missteps and Financial Struggles
Hertz faced significant challenges with its electric vehicle fleet, particularly regarding the purchase of Teslas at peak prices and subsequent heavy losses when selling them, leading to a 20% hit amid declining EV demand and high maintenance costs. Additionally, a lawsuit from Discovery Capital over warrants triggered further financial concerns with a potential liability exceeding 1.7 billion, adding uncertainty to Hertz's financial situation.
Debt Capital Raise and Turnaround Efforts
Hertz raised approximately a billion dollars through new debt, mainly comprising first-lean bonds with interest rates above 12%, extending their financial runway but raising doubts about executing their turnaround strategy to reduce their EV footprint and manage vehicle depreciation. The success of the new CEO's strategy and the company's ability to achieve profitability remained key concerns for investors.
Equity and Debt Considerations for Investors
Investors evaluated Hertz's capital structure, with focus on higher cap stack bonds and new first-wave bonds due to their more favorable terms and backing from major shareholders like Sotaris and Night Head. The challenging business environment, lack of free cash flow, and maturing bonds heightened uncertainties, signaling a complex financial landscape and strategic decisions ahead for potential investors.
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Financial challenges and potential liabilities faced by Hertz, including issues with EV fleet and warrants
When it emerged from bankruptcy in 2021, Hertz was something of a success story. Everyone involved who wasn’t named Carl Icahn made out OK. But here it is again, challenged by an overstep into EVs and loaded up with pricey new debt.
In this week’s episode of Cloud 9fin, global head of distressed and restructuring Max Frumes breaks it all down with distressed credit analyst Larry Feldman and senior reporter Sasha Padbidri. How did Hertz get back into trouble? How grim is the path ahead? How will the situation play out as the 2026 maturity wall draws near?
Follow all the latest up-to-the-minute Hertz coverage here at 9fin.com.
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