Conglomerate Ayala Corp. has successfully signed its first yen-denominated term loan, totaling approximately USD200 million, or P11.5 billion, marking a significant milestone in its corporate financing strategy. This follows a favorable credit rating appraisal from Japan Credit Rating Agency Ltd. (JCR), underscoring Ayala’s strong financial standing.
The proceeds from the loan will be used for general corporate purposes, bolstering Ayala’s ability to fund its diverse business ventures. According to Ayala treasurer Estelito C. Biacora, the deal expands the company’s partnership with key Japanese financial institutions such as Mizuho Bank and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC). “This maiden yen-denominated loan broadens Ayala Corp.’s capital-raising options and helps us better grow businesses that enable people to thrive,” Biacora noted.
Mizuho Bank, a long-standing financial partner of Ayala, played a pivotal role as the rating advisor for the company’s first JCR rating. Mizuho general manager Masaaki Wada expressed pride in their collaboration, saying, “We are deeply honored to have played a key role in Ayala’s first JCR rating, reflecting our strong partnership and shared commitment to financial excellence.”
The loan deal, finalized on March 19 through a ceremonial signing event, is part of Ayala’s ongoing efforts to diversify its funding sources and secure competitive rates. The company’s recently awarded “A-” foreign currency long-term issuer rating from JCR enhances its access to the Japanese capital markets, reinforcing its ability to meet financial obligations and support business expansion.
As Ayala Corp. continues to diversify and grow, this development highlights the company’s strategic initiatives to strengthen its global financial relationships and optimize its capital structure.
