Navigating the Mixed Terrain of Mid-Market Documentation with Macfarlanes
Dec 18, 2024
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Kirstie Hutchinson and Adam Caines, private capital partners at Macfarlanes, dive into the evolving landscape of mid-market loan documentation in Europe. They discuss how relaxed documentation practices are shifting the balance in favor of borrowers, and highlight new clauses that may raise concerns among lenders. The conversation also touches on the impact of external events like COVID-19 on loan structures, emphasizing the importance of strong relationships between borrowers and lenders in navigating this complex terrain.
The gradual loosening of documentation in Europe's mid-market has shifted negotiation power towards borrowers, impacting lender protections significantly.
Private credit lenders are increasingly adopting a relationship-focused approach, enabling flexibility in terms while balancing risk mitigation strategies for capital protection.
Deep dives
The Evolving Landscape of Private Credit Documentation
The current state of documentation in the European private credit market is characterized by a gradual loosening of terms that has emerged from historical practices. Traditionally, mid-market loan agreements were based on stringent LMA templates that provided solid protections for lenders. However, with the rise of private credit and subsequent changes in negotiating power, there has been a notable shift towards more borrower-friendly documentation. This environment encourages borrowers with strong credit profiles and solid sponsorship to secure favorable terms, reflecting the dynamic interactions between lender protections and the operational freedoms negotiated in loan agreements.
Balancing Commercial Pressures with Risk Control
Credit funds are facing increasing pressure to deploy capital while maintaining control over borrower groups through careful document negotiation. As the mid-market continues to evolve, lenders can find themselves in competitive situations where multiple creditors vie for deals, which often dilutes their ability to dictate strict terms. Consequently, credit fund strategies emphasize building internal legal teams capable of ensuring a baseline standard in documentation, while also managing what they refer to as 'red line issues'—contract terms they aim not to concede. This conscientious approach helps lenders preserve their negotiating stance despite the looser documentation norm permeating the market.
Emerging Trends in Covenant Structures
The loosening of documentation in the private credit market has led to significant changes in financial covenants and related rights, with a trend towards cov-lite or cov-loose structures becoming more prevalent. Such financial structures may lack ongoing maintenance covenants, allowing borrowers greater freedom while meeting specific performance metrics. This flexibility can include extensive allowances for EBITDA adjustments and equity cures that enable sponsors to manage cash flows effectively. The ability to introduce incremental debt with fewer restrictions also allows borrowers to pursue strategic acquisitions with less conditionality, reflecting the competitive advantage strong sponsors have in negotiations.
Long-Term Relationships and Adaptability in Lending
Private credit lenders distinguish themselves through a relationship-focused approach that prioritizes long-term partnerships with borrowers. This approach fosters a collaborative environment where lenders are more willing to adjust terms during challenging economic conditions, maintaining borrower support crucial for success. Additionally, the flexibility afforded to borrowers—such as payment-in-kind options—demonstrates a commitment to accommodating their needs while still upholding lender interests. As the landscape continues to evolve, lenders must balance the flexibility required by borrowers with the need for effective risk mitigation strategies to protect their capital investments.
In this episode, Debtwire's Amelia Weitzman is joined by Kirstie Hutchinson and Adam Caines, both private capital partners at Macfarlanes, to discuss documentation in Europe's mid-market. Listen in to hear how much the gradual loosening of documentation is putting direct lenders on the backfoot of borrowers, whether there are any new clauses that raise alarm bells, and much more.
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