Stakeholders face tough choices as Lycra navigates a complex balance sheet while considering a private credit option. The podcast delves into the strategic dynamics of financing in tight markets, where private credit is becoming increasingly appealing. Listeners learn about the intricate negotiations and conflicts among bondholders and financial players involved in restructuring. Additionally, it highlights the risks and challenges of refinancing, showcasing the changing landscape of private credit that adapts to current economic pressures.
Lycra faces urgent financial pressures to refinance $1 billion in debt, exploring private credit as a potential solution despite higher costs.
The rising appeal of private credit for distressed companies reflects a changing landscape, where lenders accept higher risks for lucrative returns.
Deep dives
Lycra's Debt Challenges
Lycra is facing significant financial pressure as it must refinance $1 billion in debt, including a super senior term loan due in February and additional notes due in the following months. Two ad hoc creditor groups have formed to address these concerns, as the company explores options for extending its debt. Much of the debt restructuring discussion centers on the potential involvement of private credit lenders, who may provide new funding to alleviate some of the financial burden. This represents a crucial moment for Lycra as its debt situation becomes increasingly urgent and complex.
The Role of Private Credit in Refinancing
In light of its impending debt maturity, Lycra is reportedly seeking to secure approximately $350 million through private credit markets, albeit at significantly higher rates than traditional lending. The private credit deal stands out due to the elevated pricing it commands compared to the current market standards, reflecting the risky nature of the financing. This move marks a shift in strategy for private credit as it becomes an attractive option for distressed companies. The growing appetite for such high-yield opportunities indicates the evolving landscape of private credit, where lenders are increasingly willing to accept greater risks.
Market Position and Future Prospects
Lycra's financial struggles are compounded by its significant leverage and ongoing litigation risks, particularly stemming from its acquisition by Rui Group in 2019. As the company battles to maintain its market position, it has faced eroding market share amidst increasing competition. This precarious situation raises doubts among potential investors about the viability of the private credit deal proposed, despite the premium they may receive. Creditors are keenly aware that without a solid turnaround strategy, Lycra's future remains uncertain, highlighting the challenges ahead for both the company and those willing to finance it.
More and more, the lines are blurring between our private credit and distressed coverage.
In this episode of Cloud 9fin, private credit editor David Brooke mines the reportage of Bianca Boorer, senior distressed debt reporter, and Shubham Saharan, senior private credit reporter.
They talk about the challenge Lycra’s stakeholders face in navigating the company’s balance sheet, and why the company is considering a private credit option, even if it wouldn’t provide it with all the liquidity — or should we say elasticity — it needs to tackle its entire capital stack.
Do listen in to find out why private credit has the leg(ging) up on the competition!
Follow all of 9fin’s coverage of the Lycra situation here. If you have any feedback for us, send us a note at podcast@9fin.com. Thanks for listening.
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