Monday 18 July 2016 by Company updates

BlueScope cuts net debt by 43% in 2H16

THIS CONTENT IS SUITABLE FOR WHOLESALE INVESTORS ONLY

BlueScope has increased its FY16 underlying earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) guidance to $580m, representing around a $70m improvement in the second half of FY16

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The improved performance has come from higher margins in the international business and the positive turnaround in Asian steel prices.

Net debt is expected to reduce by around $600m over the second half of FY16 to $780m at financial year end – a significant 43% reduction. This has been driven by strong operating cashflows in 2H16 as well as $100m from favourable timing in end of year cashflows, plus $105m from the sale of receivables. The debt reduction translates to a guided FY16 net debt / EBITDA ratio of 0.8 times which is considered conservative.

The BlueScope 6.50% US dollar bond maturing in May 2021 is currently indicatively offered at a yield to worst* of 4.06%.

A link to the announcement is available here.External link - opens in a new window

Please contact your FIIG representative for further details on the BlueScope USD bonds. Available to wholesale investors with a minimum face value of USD10,000.

*The yield to worst on the BlueScope bond is currently the yield to the first call date (May 2018 at USD103.25)