Brookfield Asset Management Inc.
Please see disclaimer at bottom of this document
Plenty of mistakes in these notes
The notes below print out to around 150 pages. I have noticed several errors. Yet, I have not noticed what I consider to be any type of material error. Nor has my thesis changed. Yet, I keep looking to pierce holes in our thesis. Again, please do your own due diligence. We are certainly not recommending an investment in BAM or affiliates, be it long or short. Please read our disclaimer. We may or may not update these notes in the future. We could eliminate our short position at any time. Of course we would have and have made that same statement, when we first shorted during August 2007. If you notice any mistakes, please email me at rredfield@rbcpa.com . We will look into and attempt to change any mistakes we find.
September 14, 2010 (27.60) 245 Park Avenue to receive $800M from China
We discussed 245 Park Ave in our notes below on August 28, 2009.
It is our understanding, and this has not been confirmed, that one of China's State owned banks has agreed to provide 245 Park Ave with an $800M fixed rate loan. The 10 year loan was expected to go through a securitization program. Bank of China funded the entire balance without a securitization or without mezzanine debt. The rate is expected to be lower than potential securitization packages, with a senior loan with a rate just below 5% and a mezzanine loan with a rate of about 8%. Hence, the rate is probably somewhere between 5% and less than 8%. Insurers allegedly offered less than $700M for the loan. It was mentioned to us that the building is carrying a value of $1.3B. Hence, loan to value is approximately 61.5%. Interesting that Reis claims the building is 1.586M SF, whereas Brookfield claims on their web page it is 1.719M SF + parking of 68SF (See August 28, 2009 note below.) It is our understanding that JP Morgan leases 44% of the space through 2022. Brookfield Properties owns 51%, and NY State Teachers owns 49%. The proceeds will be used to pay down $431M of debt due in 2/2011. We expect that the building will retain $329M after fees.
Australia Office Transaction
It was announced on July 30, 2010, that "Brookfield Properties has agreed to enter into a transaction with Brookfield Asset Management whereby Brookfield Properties will pay Brookfield Asset Management A$1.6 billion (US$1.4 billion) for an interest in 16 premier Australian office properties comprising 8 million square feet in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth which are 99% leased. The properties have a total value of A$3.8 billion (US$3.4 billion)." http://brookfieldproperties.com/_Global/25/img/content//AUS_Transaction_Sup_Jul_30.pdf
As of now, it is our interpretation and gut feeling (and we could
be wrong), that BPO is paying a great deal more for properties than current fair
value, and that is not a real arms length transaction.
IFRS is reporting at the value that BAM interprets. Values of CRE in Australia
have substantially declined since the market highs. BAM purchased these assets
at the height of the market, with the Multiplex transaction.
During February of 2009 BAM was asked if they had concerns as it relates to
mortgages or Multiplex. BAM responded, "I would say the quality of the assets
gives us lot of comfort in that regard. So, we will work through that situation
and fortunately we don't have a whole heck of a lot of maturities staring us in
the face there. And we will get -- the quality of assets are such that we should
have a pretty easy time refinancing them, we think."
This is what BAM mentioned on their recent 2Q10 conference call:
"Dealing specifically with the valuation of the portfolio, as many of you
know, we went through a lot of work, money, and risk over the last number of
years assembling this Australian office portfolio. Second, we're selling at our
externally appraised IFRS values, which are the values in our accounting books.
No gain, no loss.
For the record, we would not sell these properties at this low a price to a
company which was not 50% owned and that was not strategic to us. Furthermore,
BPO has been diligencing these assets for over 12 months, and therefore has
little acquisition risk which would normally come along with a transaction."
"Our tangible assets are generally held in public and private operating
subsidiaries and various listed and unlisted funds. Assets held in funds often
require annual revaluation based on third party appraisal. In these cases, we
utilize the appraised third party values and assumptions as the basis of our
IFRS carrying values with adjustments in accordance with IFRS rules, if
necessary. Assets not otherwise valued for fund requirements are valued by
management, and also valued by third party appraisers on a rotating basis so
that each asset is revalued externally at least once every three years. A
summary of our revaluation methodology is provided below:
Commercial Properties: Revalued quarterly by management and on a rotating basis
by third party appraisers at least once every three years and more frequently if
required for fund reporting or refinancing activity."
BAM further indicated in the 2Q10 filing, that Commercial Properties had nil
unrecognized IFRS value. To us, this means, that BAM considers Commercial
Properties to be on their books at Fair Value.
Fitch Affirms Brookfield Renewable Power; Outlook to stable
"Fitch Ratings-New York-28 July 2010: Fitch Ratings has
affirmed Brookfield Renewable Power, Inc.'s (BRPI) Issuer Default Rating (IDR)
at 'BBB-' and its senior unsecured debt ratings at 'BBB'. At the same time, the
Rating Outlook for BRPI's long-term ratings is revised to Stable from Negative.
Approximately $1 billion of BRPI corporate level debt is affected by this
action.
The affirmation and Stable outlook reflect the predictability and stability of
BRPI's cash flows...."
"Due to hydrology risk, BRPI typically enters into long-term power sales
agreements or intermediate-term financial derivatives for approximately 70% of
its current year expected power output from average long-term water flows (using
a 95% confidence factor). The uncontracted power is sold into the spot market
resulting in some exposure to wholesale power prices over the short term. Over
the longer term, if low spot power prices persist, as contracted revenues
roll-off, BRPI could face a situation where contracts are reset at lower than
existing contract power prices pressuring margins.
BRPI utilizes non-recourse project level debt to finance the bulk of its
generating fleet; thus BRPI's own corporate debt and cash flows are subordinated
to the project structures. Parent cash flows are comprised primarily from
distributions, and dividends from BRPI's myriad of investments are expected to
improve slightly over the near term based on a higher level of contracted
revenues and the addition of new projects and investments.
Fitch estimates that the ratio of Adjusted Parent Operating Cash Flow (APOCF) to
parent level debt, a non GAAP financial ratio used by Fitch, will remain at or
above 36% over the next few years. Similarly, interest coverage, as measured by
APOCF to corporate interest expense, is estimated to remain at or above at 5.3
times over the forecast period. APOCF is supported by the diversity of cash flow
sources. In calculating APOCF, Fitch utilizes it low natural gas and low
wholesale power price model to stress non-contracted, unhedged cash flows from
the operating assets as well as certain distribution test assumptions to stress
corporate cash flows. These credit metrics compare well to merchant generator
and rating category peers.
Additional concerns relate to the complex organization structure with most of
the assets held in project finance structures or in partially owned investment
fund affiliates that make most of the cash flows to support BRPI's approximate
$1 billion in corporate level debt subordinate to the project level financings.
BRPI is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management, Inc. (BAM,
'BBB'), an asset management company with investments in three primary areas:
real estate; power generation; and infrastructure assets. BRPI and BAM have a
sizable amount of inter-company advances and liabilities between themselves.
Recently, BRPI purchased BAM's holdings in Brookfield Infrastructure Partners
and Transelec, S.A. ('BBB-'), Chile's national transmission system; the
investment represented another shift in BRPI's strategic focus away from
renewable power generation. "
S&P reaffirms BAM at A- and Negative Outlook
June 30, 2010
"The affirmation reflects Brookfield's continued adherence to
its business strategy, diversified sources of remitted cash flow, and strong
financial flexibility.
The negative outlook reflects our expectation that lower investment gains,
challenging market conditions, and possible capital requirement from the General
Growth Properties recapitalization plan and refinancing at Brookfield Properties
Corp. could weaken the company's own financial risk profile."
"The company's strategy, as we understand it, also emphasizes the use of
asset-specific nonrecourse debt to finance its subsidiaries' investments and
operating needs, financial flexibility (including a portion of capital in liquid
listed investments), and a conservative capital structure at the company level.
Standard & Poor's consider the company's ability to generate remitted operating
cash flow from multiple sources as a key strength supporting the ratings.
Brookfield invests its underlying assets mainly in businesses with long-term
contracts or regulated revenue, which are subject to different influencing
factors and have demonstrated a track record of stable, albeit levered, returns.
The negative outlook reflects our expectation that lower investment gains,
challenging market conditions, and possible capital requirement from General
Growth Properties' (GGP) recapitalization plan and refinancing at Brookfield
Properties Corp. (BPO) could weaken Brookfield's financial risk profile.
Standard & Poor's could consider lowering the rating if BPO's credit risk
profiles deteriorate further. We could also lower the rating if remitted cash
flows weaken further and result in remitted OCF interest coverage falling below
5x or OCF to total debt falling below 30% on a sustained basis. Conversely, we
could revise the outlook to stable if the company creates a wider cushion in its
financial measures (either through stronger OCF or a material reduction in
company-level debt); and after we can ascertain that the size of Brookfield's
investments in GGP are within its means without material increase in
company-level debt."
S&P BPO + BCR 'BBB' Afmd; Outlk Neg
"We affirmed our 'BBB' corporate credit ratings on Brookfield Properties Corp. (Brookfield) and its Toronto-based affiliate, Brookfield Office Properties Canada, and maintained our negative outlook.
-- Our ratings on Brookfield acknowledge the comparatively favorable performance
of the company's well-leased and high-quality office portfolio in first-quarter
2010, as well as its improved liquidity following the issuance of more than $1.5
billion of equity over the past year.
-- However, our negative outlook reflects the sizable debt maturities in 2011
related to Brookfield's highly leveraged U.S. office fund joint venture, as an
equity infusion will be necessary to refinance this debt at a lower
loan-to-value level. Additionally, the company faces the lease expiration of its
largest tenant in 2013."
"We would likely lower the rating one notch if debt coverage measures
deteriorate from their current levels or liquidity becomes constrained. We would
maintain the ratings if Brookfield's management successfully addresses the
longer-term recapitalization needs of its U.S. fund without compromising its
current pro rata fixed-charge coverage measures. Although less likely in the
near term, the ratings could improve in the longer term if the company
additionally were to reduce its top tenant concentration and improve its pro
rata fixed-charge coverage to levels that are comfortably in the mid-2x area."
May 7, 2010 (24.76) DBRS Comments on Brookfield’s Investment in General Growth Properties
http://www.dbrs.com/research/232611?docId=232611
"DBRS notes that the proposal from Brookfield Asset Management
Inc. (Brookfield or the Company) and related investors (collectively, the
Brookfield Group) to recapitalize General Growth Properties, Inc. (GGP) has been
accepted by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. The offer by the Brookfield Group now
becomes the stalking-horse bid, setting a floor that any competing offer must
exceed.
As set out in the original offer, the Brookfield Group has agreed to invest
approximately $2.5 billion in a recapitalization of GGP (and $125 million in
General Growth Opportunities (GGO)). This is to be accomplished through its $5
billion Real Estate Turnaround Consortium (the Consortium). If successful, the
Consortium would own approximately 26% of GGP, with Brookfield owning about 25%
of the Consortium’s investment (about $700 million).
In a revision to the offer this week, Brookfield, Fairholme Capital Management,
LLC and Pershing Square Capital Management LP (on a several basis) agreed to
backstop an additional $2 billion in capital, which includes $1.5 billion of
debt and a $500 million equity rights offering. The $1.5 billion is the same
amount that had originally been proposed under a new credit facility. With this
modification, Brookfield would backstop $600 million of the $1.5 billion in debt
issuance and $350 million of the $500 million rights offering."
April 20, 2010 (25.40) Standard and Poor's upgrades Brookfield Renewable Power Inc.
The following is a press release from Standard & Poor's:
"We are revising our outlook on Brookfield Renewable Power Inc. (BRPI) and
Brookfield Renewable Power Fund (BRPF, 50% owned by BRPI) to stable from
negative.
-- We are affirming all the ratings on the companies, including our 'BBB'
long-term corporate credit rating on BRPI and BRPF.
-- The outlook revision reflects our view that, with increased business and
geographic diversity and a higher level of contracted revenue, BRPI is now more
resilient to its exposure to wholesale electricity prices and hydrological risk.
-- The stable outlook reflects our view that BRPI's strong diversity and
financial flexibility support the ratings despite our concerns over the
company's high debt level and resulting weak coverage measures for the rating."
"The company has, in our view, a satisfactory business risk profile supported by
increased diversification of its investment portfolio and cost-competitive
position of its hydroelectricity generation assets, with an increased proportion
of contracted revenue. We also conclude that the company has an intermediate
financial risk profile. Although financial measures (both consolidated and at
the company level) are weak for the rating, we believe this is mitigated by
strong financial flexibility, with the value of investments well exceeding
company-level debt, and from its strategic relationship with its corporate
parent, Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (Brookfield; A-/Negative/A-2)."
"The stable outlook reflects our view that BRPI's improved business risk profile
and strong financial flexibility support the rating despite our concerns over
its high debt level and resulting weak coverage measures for the rating."
"We believe that an upgrade is unlikely without substantial improvement in cash
flow coverage measures with debt coverage exceeding 35% and interest coverage
exceeding 5.5x on a sustained basis. We believe that, to achieve these targets,
BRPI would need to have a more conservative use of overall and project-level
leverage."
Brookfield Properties, Inc. is selling Brookfield Place to a
new soon to be public entity, Brookfield Office Properties Canada. (BCR-UN.TO)
Brookfield Properties is selling Brookfield Place at a 5.5% cap rate. The cap
rate incorporates a 98+% occupancy. I think it is fair to say that Brookfield
Place would not be able to sell in an independent open market at under a 6 cap.
They are selling to a related property for $866M.
I guess the new investors of the property will think they are getting great
property (and it is) at a fair price. My guess is that in years to come we will
end up seeing what a great deal this was for Brookfield, and how the new
investors of Brookfield Place will come to find what a terrible deal they got.
Maybe BAM would then buy this trophy property back at foreclosure.
The purchase price for the Brookfield Place Interest will be satisfied by the
payment of approximately $100.0 million in cash, the assumption of debt and the
issuance of Class B LP Units. Debt at 9/30/09 was 332,835, matures in 4/2013.
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units |
unit price |
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Cash |
$100 |
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Debt |
$342 |
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Brookfield Office Properties Canada |
$424 |
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20.3 |
$20.90 |
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$866 |
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Using above cap rate is 5.53%. If one was to use a 7% cap rate, value would be
$684M ($182M less). Also, the transaction is based upon the price of Brookfield
Office Properties Canada. Offering to the public.
1435 sf building owned interest, and 86 parking according to 4Q09 Brookfield
Properties portfolio listing.
Rossa O’Reilly (CIBC) mentioned in a note after the conference call, “As part of
the transaction, the REIT would acquire the Bay Wellington Tower office building
and Brookfield Properties’ interest in adjacent retail and parking facilities at
Brookfield Place in Toronto, adding 1.8 million sq. ft. of premium, quality
space to its portfolio.”
Avery in a recent note mentioned, "The acquisition of the flagship 181 Bay
Street office tower of Brookfield Place in Toronto (albeit at a low, but
appropriate 5.5% initial cap rate/yield [per Altus Group (AIF.UN–SO)], resulting
in some dilution to near-term FFO
and AFFO)."
NOI appears to be $47.9. Looks sustainable. Unaudited. Looks reasonable when you
see 9 month NOI in BPO Properties circular.
“As part of the Transaction, Brookfield Office Properties Canada LP will acquire
from BPO the Brookfield Place Interest. The subsidiary of BPO that owns the
Brookfield Place Interest will amalgamate with substantially all of BPP’s
existing subsidiary entities to form BPP Sub Amalco and BPO will receive shares
of BPP Sub Amalco. BPP
Sub Amalco will then sell the Brookfield Place Interest to Brookfield Office
Properties Canada LP for a purchase price equal to approximately $866 million to
be satisfied by the payment of approximately $100 million in cash, the
assumption of debt valued at approximately $342 million and the issuance of
approximately 20.3 million Class B LP Units valued at approximately $20.90 per
unit.”
“Given that approximately 20.3 million BCR Units (having an aggregate net equity
value of $424 million) will be issued to BPO as part of the consideration for
the Brookfield Place Interest and that the Excluded Assets and Liabilities will
be retained by BPP in exchange for a reduction of approximately 12.1 million BCR
Units (having an aggregate net equity value of $252 million), approximately 8.2
million BCR Units will be issued to BPO, on a net basis, which accounts for the
increase in BPO's aggregate equity interest from 89.7% in BPP to approximately
90.6% in BCR.”
"As a result of joint venture restrictions, BPP will retain its 25% undivided
interest in the Canadian Office Fund properties, which consist of 7.6 million
square feet of rentable commercial and parking space and 0.6 million square feet
of development property. The Canadian Office Fund commercial properties include:
First Canadian Place in Toronto, Ontario; 2 Queen St. E. in Toronto, Ontario;
151 Yonge St. in Toronto, Ontario; Altius Centre in 26 Calgary, Alberta; Place
de Ville I and Place de Ville II in Ottawa, Ontario; Jean Edmonds Tower in
Ottawa, Ontario; Canadian Western Bank Place in Edmonton, Alberta; and Enbridge
Tower in Edmonton, Alberta. For purposes of the Transaction, BPP’s 25% undivided
interest in the Canadian Office Fund has been valued at approximately $252
million."
“In addition, BPP will retain 3.2 million square feet of development properties
including: surface and air rights in respect of the Bay Adelaide Centre north
and east parcels in Toronto, Ontario; the Yonge Adelaide parcel in Toronto,
Ontario; the residential development density rights referred to as “Brookfield
III” in Toronto, Ontario; the Herald site in Calgary, Alberta; and the unused
density rights associated with the Bankers Hall complex in Calgary, Alberta. As
is the case with many real estate investment trusts, management of BPP is of the
view that the value of non-income producing development properties would not be
appropriately reflected in the market price of Trust Units. For purposes of the
Transaction, these development properties have been valued at approximately $126
million.”
“Excluded Assets and Liabilities, which have been valued at approximately $252
million for purposes of the Transaction, will be retained by BPP in exchange for
a reduction in the number of BCR Units to be issued to BPO of approximately 12.1
million BCR Units valued at approximately $20.90 per unit.”
March 24, 2010 (24.92) Some BHS stuff
Looking at the 10-K 2009
1. No related party transactions mentioned. Yet, there are dealings together,
such as unsecured credit facilities with BAM, as well as the services of CFO,
Craig Laurie. See item 7. directly below.
2. Total Equity is $486.313M compared to $262.519M in 2008. When you subtract
out preferred stock of $249.688, you get total equity of $236,625 in 2009. You
have a Deferred Tax Asset of 40,112 on the balance sheet. I would suspect that
will be reserved at some point, which would bring down stockholder’s equity.
Also listed in Equity is Non-Controlling Interests of $7.317M.
3. Shares outstanding are 28,402,299 as of 1/18/10. Using market price today of
$8.52, you have market cap of $241.988M.
4. Included in Payables is $14.192M of Swap Contracts. Not commenting, just
noting. I previously asked BAM the following: “BAM has a bit of hedging in most
of their consolidated entities. Are any of the hedging gains, losses, mark to
markets, as well as transactions being done by BAM related entities?” BAM would
not comment on that question. Since no Related Party Transactions are listed,
you would think that BHS has no derivative positions with BAM. Yet, I have not
confirmed that to be the case.
5. No subsequent events listed in the 10K.
Looking at DEF14A
6. Ian Cockwell received $2.130M in compensation in 2009.
7. Although Related Party Transactions have no mention in the K. They are
mentioned in the Def14A. These include, but are not necessarily limited to the
following:
A. BAM owns 82% of BHS. This includes an assumption of full preferred
conversion. Without conversion ownership is 60%.
B. There is a related party debt facility of $100M. The covenant requires a
minimum stockholders Equity of $300m. See my note above regarding Stockholders
Equity. If Preferred Stock was not listed as Equity, the threshold of $300M
would be in violation.
C. “The facility contains covenants requiring us to maintain minimum
stockholders’ equity of $300 million and a consolidated net debt to book
capitalization ratio of no greater than 70%.” FYI from the balance sheet, the
following consolidated debt exists. Project Specific Financings $231.567M,
Revolving and Other $150M. Total debt I listed was $382M, if you add
Stockholders Equity Adjusted of $237M; you get total capital of $619. Hence the
debt / Adjusted Capital Ratio is 62%. If Deferred Taxes were reserved, the ratio
would increase to 66%.
D. “We sublease our administrative offices in Toronto, Ontario from Brookfield,
which leases the space from Brookfield Properties. We are required to pay
approximately $100,000 per year in rent under our Toronto sublease, which
expires in 2011.”
Other stuff
8. There are SEC comment letters with BHS that are worth reading. I do not
recall their contents. Here is one response to a comment letter http://rbcpa.com/companies/BHS_SEC_Comment_Letter_response_20090630.pdf
I questioned BAM if there were any other comment letters for BAM, BHS or
subsidiaries. BAM informed me that they would not respond to my question.
9. 8K filed 1/6/10,” "On December 31, 2009, Brookfield Homes Corporation (the
“Corporation”) paid a semi-annual dividend of $10,000,000 to holders of record
of its $250,000,000 8% Convertible Preferred Stock, Series A. At its election,
this dividend was paid by the Corporation issuing 1,608,567 shares of Common
Stock of the Corporation at the volume weighted closing price of the Common
Stock over the five consecutive trading days preceding the dividend declaration
date of December 16, 2009, or approximately $6.21."
10. You can go to my old notes and then hit <control f> and search “Brookfield
Homes” for other notes I took. My notes are here http://rbcpa.com/companies/BAM_notes.html
February 25, 2010 (BAM 23.25) (BPO 13.37)
February 16, 2010 Brookfield Properties Releases Earnings - Initial Reaction
One needs to read SEC filing to get a clearer picture of the business and operations. In the mean time, these notes are just some thoughts on the Brookfield Properties, February 5, 2010 earnings release.
1. I spoke with Bryan Davis, CFO. - Here are notes to discussion:
A. Page 19 of the 4Q09 supplement discusses Average In-Place Net Rent ($ per Sq. Ft.). The 2008 annual report indicates the following in regards to description of Net Rents. "Substantially all of our leases are net leases in which the lessee is required to pay their proportionate share of property operating expenses such as utilities, repairs, insurance and taxes. Consequently, leasing activity, which affects both occupancy and in place rental rates, is the principal contributor to the change in same property net operating income." Bryan Davis CFO explained," Brookfield typically collects Base Rent, and then all operating expenses. When you take the Base Rent Collected, less, Operating Expenses, you get Net Rent Reported." He said risk was that tenants were late or do not pay either rent and/or expenses, and if so, that would show up in Net rent numbers. Bryan stated, "Rent is collected at the NOI level.”
B. Brookfield recently "monetized" 90% of their interest in 1625 Eye Street in Washington, D.C. On page 35 of 4Q09 supplement, they list $96M as a "Receivable and Other Asset." According to Brookfield Properties, the offsetting amount is a loan payable of $92M and is a component of “Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities” on page 36. The remaining $4M represents their retention of 10% common equity interest.
C. I asked if either Brookfield Realty Capital Corp., (BRCC), or the $5B consortium would be buying any assets, or participating in the refinance of any of the Trizec, U.S. Office Fund, or other Brookfield Properties debt or assets. Bryan mentioned that is not why the entities are set up. He does not expect any of those types of transactions to occur.
D. We discussed Trizec and U.S. Office Fund. Blackstone and Brookfield Properties bought Trizec Properties for $7.6B. Blackstone owns 27%, and Brookfield owns 73%. Brookfield's ownership is owned by the U.S. Office Fund. Brookfield currently owns effectively 47% of the Trizec purchase. This is where it gets tricky. Brookfield Properties records the entire Net Operating Income of Trizec into the Brookfield Properties Financial Statements. They label this as U.S. Office Fund. Even though the U.S. Office Fund only owns 73% of former Trizec, Brookfield Properties still call it U.S. Office Fund. Eventually, they net out to their 47% ownership. This is explained on page 11 of the 4Q09 supplement. The Total NOI for Trizec is $571.50 (454.8 + 116.7). On page 11 of the 4Q09 supplement, in note (2) it is indicated that total non-controlling share of NOI in the U.S. Office Fund is $303M. The Total NOI for Brookfield Properties would be $268.61. This nets close to the 47% effective ownership by Brookfield. The Total NOI is greater than the Cash NOI. Total Cash NOI is presented as $440.60M for Trizec ($351.4+$89.2.). According to Brookfield Properties, their proportionate share is $207M. The $207M is 47% of the entire Total Cash NOI. The Total Cash NOI of $320M,which Brookfield has referred to throughout this note, is approximately 73% of the Total Cash NOI of Trizec ($440.60 * 73%).
Bryan Davis explained, the total Cash NOI for Brookfield's managed assets (73% of Trizec) was $270M at purchase, $320M currently, and expected to be $370M in 2011. This is Total Cash NOI, which according to Brookfield Properties, is expected to be less than Projected Total NOI. According to Brookfield Properties, this “was meant to illustrate the progress Brookfield has made in increasing rents and occupancy of the properties it manages for the benefit of Brookfield and its fund partners. As at the end of 2009 the amount was $350M but is inclusive of some lease termination income which may not repeat.” This was also discussed in the conference call. He explained the Total NOI and the Total Cash NOI is increasing because of higher rents and increased occupancies since purchase. He also mentioned, he felt this is the reason that Trizec has not lost as much value as traditional Commercial Real Estate bought during the same time period (end of 2006). Bryan Davis further explained, “the increase in Total Cash NOI of our managed portfolio, has helped offset the decline in value of commercial real estate, as a result of increasing cap rates and discount rates.” The supplemental schedule identifies “Intangible lease amortization,” and “Straight-line rental amortization,” as the accounts which reduce Total NOI to get to Total Cash NOI.
E. At NAREIT 2009, Ric Clark mentioned going in Cash NOI for Brookfield was $270M, and he projected $320M in 2011. Brookfield Properties explained, “Ric Clark mentioned at NAREIT that the Cash NOI when we took over our managed portfolio was $270M and based on leasing to date we expected that Cash NOI to grow to $320M by 2009 and to $370M by 2011.”
F. One is not able to reconstruct Trizec NOI’s prior to 2009. I had asked Brookfield the following. “Has your NOI reporting of Trizec stayed similar during the years? I would like to schedule the Total NOI's and the Total Cash NOI's since inception of US Office Fund. Yet, I am having difficulty since it appears that the reporting’s have changed. A supplement since inception, consistent with the reporting on page 11 in the 4Q09 Supplemental would be helpful. Is there a schedule you could supply that would put in a similar table, including the history of Trizec purchase, including the same information that you included in the 4Q09 supplement on pages 10 and 11? I would like to be able to break up the entire managed business, and the Brookfield ownership numbers. I am assuming the entire managed business includes the 27% Blackstone and the 73% Brookfield.” Brookfield Properties responded to this question with, “Please note that we are unable to provide any further information beyond what is included in our published supplemental information packets in relation to your request for analysis going back to 2006.” “Although we began disclosing managed versus non-managed US Office Fund NOI in Q4 2009, we will not be providing the same detail going back. So yes, you are correct: a history of Trizec NOI will not be made available to you or any other investor or analyst.”
G. Bryan Davis mentioned, “Non-managed assets are assets that are not managed by us, but instead managed by Blackstone, and in which Blackstone shares in the majority of the economics. Managed assets in the U.S. Fund include the assets that Brookfield Manages on behalf of itself and its fund partners.”
2. Guidance: EPS range of $1.25 - $1.33. Calculated under Canadian GAAP and IFRS. Assumptions are:
A. Rental rates similar to 2009.
B. Commercial NOI same store 1% growth.
C. Similar margins on Residential land sales.
D. Increased margins on home sales.
E. 2010 Sales of approximately 2,000 lots and 950 homes. In Conference call it was mentioned to break up by 10% in Q1, 10% in Q2, 25% in Q3, and 55% in Q4. Brookfield Properties subsequently mentioned, “This is the usual split for residential operations but not set in stone. Any change in the economy or large bulk sales could potentially swing these percentages.”
F. Exchange rate of $0.95USD to CDN. A strong CDN is positive for BPO, and visa versa.
G. LIBOR Rate of 1.50%
3. Conference Call highlights:
A. Ric Clark said, “I wouldn’t be surprised if we don’t refinance some things for next year toward the end of the year. It is definitely likely.” He was referring to refinances after it made economic sense to do so. That would be prior to note maturing, but after any early payment penalty clauses.
B. Strength in residential. Benefits from lower interest rates.
C. Rossa O’Reilly asked if $250M pay-down of residential revolver was available to non-residential liquidity. The conference call indicated it was available to Brookfield; yet, I reviewed the audio, and could not determine if the answer is whether it is or is not available to non-residential. The transcript does indicate inaudible during this section. Brookfield did clarify this, “We do have the ability to allocate capital out of our residential business and into our commercial operations.”
4. Liquidity of $2B: - The following table was confirmed correct by Brookfield Properties.
|
Cash |
$140 |
|
Deposit at BAM |
$648 |
|
Preferred Securities in January 2010 in CDN$275 |
$261 |
|
Revolver due 12/10 BAM |
$300 |
|
Corporate Revolver with BAM |
$438 |
|
Residential Revolver |
$250 |
|
Total |
$2,037 |
We questioned the Affiliated Receivable on the books of BPO Properties, to Brookfield Properties of $85M. We asked if the $85M should be a reduction of liquidity, since it is showing up as Cash Equivalent on Brookfield Properties books, and as a receivable on BPO Properties books. Brookfield Properties responded, “We consolidate BPO Properties – so whatever cash they have at their level is included in the cash balances at our level and hence included in our liquidity. Whether BPO Properties has put the money on deposit with Brookfield Properties or with another financial institution, it is still $85 million of cash liquidity and gets reflected as such in our consolidated Brookfield Properties disclosure.” We need to ponder this further. Not material in dollars, yet the concept could be material in the future.
5. Observations:
A. Common Shares Outstanding – Fully Diluted Shares outstanding are 516,712,705. This is an increase of 115,876,049, since 12/31/08. Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding – Fully Diluted are 504,809,300, this is an increase of 113,693,754 since 12/31/08.
B. On page 4 of the Supplemental Schedule there are several per share amounts. Here is a comment from Brookfield Properties in regards to the table. “Common equity market cap is basically our common shares outstanding multiplied by the respective closing NYSE share price on the same day. If you look at slide 2 in the supplemental you can see the components and make the calculation. Book Value per share is calculated on slide 43 – it shows the components calculating the per share amount.”

The following is from page 43 of Supplemental and indicates Book Value per share. This may help in reconciling above. I have not yet attempted to reconcile.


C. The Balance Sheet has the following line items.
1. Receivables and Other for $1,952. This includes a contra receivable and payable of around $96M from sale of Eye Street in DC. There is a contra payable on that of $92M. Also includes deposit of $648M with BAM (Per CC, BPO is receiving 100bps on this). Other Receivables are increasing. This is something to monitor. Also Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets have increased since 12/31/08 from $131M to $291M. This is something to watch for as a quality of earnings issue.
2. Restricted Cash and Deposits are not broken down.
D. Cashflow Statement (Don’t be confused with unsupplied “Statement of Cash Flows.”)
1. Changes in housing and land inventory. Watch this.
2. Debt is being paid back quicker than amount being arranged. I computed net pay-downs of $590M. Yet, there was common and preferred issuance in 2009 (not including CDN$275 in 1/10) of $1,273M, during 2009.
3. Affiliate receivables increased by $760M in 2009.
E. Back of envelope Cap Rates on Trizec properties.
|
Reported Gross Consolidated Total NOI |
|
$571.50 |
|
|
Trizec Consolidated Debt |
|
$5,677.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If Cap Rate is: |
|
Value w/b |
LTV w/b |
|
|
|
|
|
|
5 |
|
$11,430 |
49.67% |
|
6 |
|
$9,525 |
59.60% |
|
7 |
|
$8,164 |
69.53% |
|
8 |
|
$7,144 |
79.47% |
|
9 |
|
$6,350 |
89.40% |
|
10 |
|
$5,715 |
99.34% |
If we use Gross NOI, a 60% LTV and a Cap rate of 7, the loan would be $4,898.40M. Hence, there would have to be cash infusion of $778.60M. One needs to seriously consider Cash NOI in the calculation of value.
|
Reported Gross Consolidated Total Cash NOI |
|
$440.60 |
|
|
Trizec Consolidated Debt |
|
$5,677.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If Cap Rate is: |
|
Value w/b |
LTV w/b |
|
|
|
|
|
|
5 |
|
$8,812 |
64.42% |
|
6 |
|
$7,343 |
77.31% |
|
7 |
|
$6,294 |
90.20% |
|
8 |
|
$5,507 |
103.09% |
|
9 |
|
$4,896 |
115.95% |
|
10 |
|
$4,406 |
128.85% |
If we use Cash NOI, a 60% LTV and a Cap rate of 7, the loan would be $3,776.40M. Hence, there would have to be cash infusion of $1.9B.
In regards to cap rates, this is what Brookfield Properties mentioned, “We have seen cap rates based on both NOI and cash NOI but analysts typically focus on cash NOI.”
F. Looks like easy maturities on Commercial Property Debt in 2010. $84M proportional, and $86M consolidated. This does not include the $100M Term facility or any of the other BAM revolvers. Revolvers of $300M and $413M are not tapped as of 12/31/09.
G. Corporate Capital Securities have increased to $1,099M at 12/31/09, from $882M at 12/31/08.
H. Preferred Subsidiary Preferred Shares have increased to $363M at 12/31/09, from $313M at 12/31/08.
I. Corporate Preferred Shares have increased to $304M at 12/31/09, from $45M at 12/31/08.
J. I still need to review and absorb page 44 of Supp:
F
Further Analysis and Data
Trizec Data at Purchase Date
|
Trizec Properties |
|
|
|
|
|
Full Portion |
US Office Fund Portion |
BAM Portion |
|
|
|
73.00% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original Purchase Price |
$7,600 |
$5,548 |
$3,572 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original Cash NOI |
$370 |
$270 |
$174 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Going in Cap Rate |
4.87% |
4.87% |
4.87% |
Total NOI – Values and Loan to Values at December 31, 2009
|
Trizec Properties |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Full Portion |
|
US Office Fund Portion |
|
BAM Portion |
|
|
|
100.00% |
|
73.00% |
|
47.00% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total NOI 12/31/09 |
$572 |
|
$417 |
|
$269 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Consolidated Debt |
$5,677 |
|
$4,144 |
|
$2,668 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Value based on Cap Rate |
Value |
LTV |
Value |
LTV |
Value |
LTV |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5.00% |
$11,430 |
50% |
$8,344 |
50% |
$5,372 |
50% |
|
6.00% |
$9,525 |
60% |
$6,953 |
60% |
$4,477 |
60% |
|
6.50% |
$8,792 |
65% |
$6,418 |
65% |
$4,132 |
65% |
|
7.00% |
$8,164 |
70% |
$5,960 |
70% |
$3,837 |
70% |
|
7.50% |
$7,620 |
75% |
$5,563 |
75% |
$3,581 |
75% |
|
8.00% |
$7,144 |
79% |
$5,215 |
79% |
$3,358 |
79% |
|
8.50% |
$6,724 |
84% |
$4,908 |
84% |
$3,160 |
84% |
|
9.00% |
$6,350 |
89% |
$4,636 |
89% |
$2,985 |
89% |
|
9.50% |
$6,016 |
94% |
$4,392 |
94% |
$2,827 |
94% |
|
10.00% |
$5,715 |
99% |
$4,172 |
99% |
$2,686 |
99% |
Total Cash NOI – Values and Loan to Values at December 31, 2009
|
Trizec Properties |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Full Portion |
|
US Office Fund Portion |
|
BAM Portion |
|
|
|
100.00% |
|
73.00% |
|
47.00% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Cash NOI 12/31/09 |
$441 |
|
$322 |
|
$207 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Consolidated Debt |
$5,677 |
|
$4,144 |
|
$2,668 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Value based on Cap Rate |
Value |
LTV |
Value |
LTV |
Value |
LTV |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5.00% |
$8,812 |
64% |
$6,433 |
64% |
$4,142 |
64% |
|
6.00% |
$7,343 |
77% |
$5,361 |
77% |
$3,451 |
77% |
|
6.50% |
$6,778 |
84% |
$4,948 |
84% |
$3,186 |
84% |
|
7.00% |
$6,294 |
90% |
$4,595 |
90% |
$2,958 |
90% |
|
7.50% |
$5,875 |
97% |
$4,289 |
97% |
$2,761 |
97% |
|
8.00% |
$5,508 |
103% |
$4,020 |
103% |
$2,589 |
103% |
|
8.50% |
$5,184 |
110% |
$3,784 |
110% |
$2,436 |
110% |
|
9.00% |
$4,896 |
116% |
$3,574 |
116% |
$2,301 |
116% |
|
9.50% |
$4,638 |
122% |
$3,386 |
122% |
$2,180 |
122% |
|
10.00% |
$4,406 |
129% |
$3,216 |
129% |
$2,071 |
129% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The following is based on Brookfield’s projections of Cash NOI in 2011:
Total Cash NOI – Values and Loan to Values Projected by Brookfield
Properties at December 31, 2011
|
Trizec Properties |
31-Dec-11 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Full Portion |
|
US Office Fund Portion |
|
BAM Portion |
|
|
|
100.00% |
|
73.00% |
|
47.00% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Cash NOI |
$506 |
|
$369 |
|
$238 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Consolidated Debt |
$5,677 |
|
$4,144 |
|
$2,668 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Value based on Cap Rate |
Value |
LTV |
Value |
LTV |
Value |
LTV |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5.00% |
$10,120 |
56% |
$7,388 |
56% |
$4,756 |
56% |
|
6.00% |
$8,433 |
67% |
$6,156 |
67% |
$3,964 |
67% |
|
6.50% |
$7,785 |
73% |
$5,683 |
73% |
$3,659 |
73% |
|
7.00% |
$7,229 |
79% |
$5,277 |
79% |
$3,397 |
79% |
|
7.50% |
$6,747 |
84% |
$4,925 |
84% |
$3,171 |
84% |
|
8.00% |
$6,325 |
90% |
$4,617 |
90% |
$2,973 |
90% |
|
8.50% |
$5,953 |
95% |
$4,346 |
95% |
$2,798 |
95% |
|
9.00% |
$5,622 |
101% |
$4,104 |
101% |
$2,642 |
101% |
|
9.50% |
$5,326 |
107% |
$3,888 |
107% |
$2,503 |
107% |
|
10.00% |
$5,060 |
112% |
$3,694 |
112% |
$2,378 |
112% |
Back of envelope of potential outcome at refinance of Trizec debt, using Brookfield Properties projected Total Cash NOI’s:
Assumptions used:
Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) 1.3
Loan To Value Maximum 65%
Cap Rate 7
25 Year Amortization 7%
|
|
Full Portion |
US Office Fund Portion |
BAM Portion |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Value at Cap Rate of 7 |
$7,229 |
$5,277 |
$3,397 |
|
Loan To Value 65% |
$4,699,000,000 |
$3,430,000.000 |
$2,208,000,000 |
|
Monthly Loan Payment |
$33,211,550 |
|
|
|
Annual Debt Cost (ADC) |
398,538,600 |
|
|
|
Total Cash NOI |
506,000,000 |
|
|
|
DSCR (Cash NOI /ADC) |
1.27X |
|
|
The above does not impute a capex reserve. It is our understanding that this is typically $0.20 per square foot. Trizec has 30,902,000 square feet. The capex reserve at $0.20 would be $6.2M.
If Trizec was to be refinanced in full (not just 2011 maturities), and if the above assumptions were achieved, it looks as though creditors would need to put in just under $1B in 2011. Of course, perhaps LTV would be 70%, not 65%. Or LTV could be 50% or 60%. Cap rate could be 8.5%, or perhaps 6.5%. Interest rate could be 6% or 8.5%. DSCR amortization requirements could be 10 years, or could be 30 years.
The above is a quick back of envelope analysis. There could be errors. I will try to work on this in the future.
[RON1]BAM became 47% owner during F2009. Previously they were a 45% owner.
Here is one way to determine the amount Trizec might be able to
refinance. Granted, the full $5.7B is not coming due in 2011. Over $3B is coming
due.
The entire Trizec entity is put on the financials of BPO. Eventually BPO
apportions out, all but their 47% ownership. BPO is projecting Cash NOI for
Trizec in 2011 of $370 for the 73% managed assets, and $238 for their own
ownership.
Here is one step I have worked on.
1. Interpret the projected Cash NOI in 2011 for the entire entity. BPO projects
$506M. You could increase or decrease from there. I would use $450M, $475M and
$506M.
2. Impute a capex reserve. I think that $0.20 per square foot is typical.
3. Determine what NOI you would like to use, or use a variety of NOI's. I would
use 6%, 7% and 8%.
4. Determine the interest rate and amortization period to be used. I would use
both 25 year and 30 year. I would also use an interest rate assumption of 6.5%,
7% and 7.5%.
5. Determine expected minimum debt service coverage ratio. I would use 1.3, 1.5
and 1.75. Debt Service Coverage Ratio is NOI / Debt Service Costs (Principal and
interest.)
6. The above will give you the maximum expected total loan.
We attended a Fitch CRE Conference in November 2009. Here they use a 1.25 DSCR, 8% financing and 30 year amortization. They did this as a default test. http://fitchratings.nyws.com/FileLib/PDFs/1146-et10007mcb_combined_final.pdf
Here is a quote, mentioning Trizec, from Blackstone (BX) 12/31/09 10-K.
Delloite is auditor for both BAM and BX. Hence, in theory we would expect the
future and discussions should be consistent from both parties.
"Specifically, the decline in these funds was primarily driven by unrealized
valuation reductions for Boca Resorts, Inc., Wyndham International, Inc., Equity
Office Properties Trust, Trizec Properties, Inc. and Hilton Hotels Corporation."
February 4, 2010 (20.80) Updates
Trizec Debt Update
BPO reported 2009 Cash NOI of $327 million through September for
the US Fund, which annualizes to $436 million or a 5.9% cap rate based on the US
Fund book value of $7,343 million at the end of 3Q09. Keep in mind that
the NOI listed (from BPO report) includes all of Trizec, and is not merely
BPO's portion.
Hence, for BPO ownership allocation one needs to reduce to 47%.
On the P&L side, all of Trizec is included, including the income and expenses
associated with the properties managed by Blackstone. 100% of BPO's
ownership in each property is reflected in Brookfield Properties NOI.
Interest expense on all of the debt within the Fund is also reflected. The
minority share of these items is reflected in the non-controlling interests
expense line on the P&L. Bottom line is FFO reflects the approximate ownership
interest in the US Fund.
The debt coming due in 2011 (not including 2010), as per 3Q09 Interim Report for
Brookfield Properties only is:
$1,845 US Office Fund. This is not the consolidated debt, or US Office Fund
debt, but the proportional debt to Brookfield Properties in 2011 only. (Remember
there is 2010 debt and other property debt coming due as well.)
In relation to Trizec. US Office Fund has $426M of Redeemable equity interests
for the Blackstone Put in 2011. This is only if Blackstone exercises the PUT. If
so, Brookfield Properties will be responsible for 62% of that, or $264M.
Trizec was purchased for around $7.5B. Current Value is probably in the area of
$4B (loss of 47%) to $5.5B (loss of 27%). Full Debt owed is $5.7B.
It is my understanding that much of the debt is non-amortizing at this point.
Using an annualized 2009 projected NOI of $436M.
If cap rate is 7%, the value would be $6.2B.
If cap rate is 8%, the value would be $5.5B.
If cap rate is 9%, the value would be $4.8B.
These assumptions include constant rent and occupancy. Even under a 7% cap
rate scenario, I think a 92% LTV is remote, if not impossible.
In my notes I mentioned Ric Clark with a $270M NOI at purchase and then
mentioned a $320M NOI.
Ric Clark (at NAREIT) was talking about the $270M NOI at purchase. He also was
projecting forward the 2011 expected NOI of $320M. Both of these comments
referred to the US Office Funds 73% ownership of Trizec. None of these
statements included the NOI of the buildings managed by Blackstone (27%).
The ownership is now 47%, via subsequent changes between I think Blackstone and
Brookfield. Here are some notes of mine from June 2009 (These notes refer to the
then 45%).
1. Brookfield Properties through its US Office Fund acquired 73% of
Trizec with Blackstone acquiring the remaining 27%. Brookfield owns a 62%
interest in the US Office Fund with institutional partners owning the balance.
2. Brookfield’s effective interest in Trizec is 45% (62% * 73%)
3. Brookfield is required to consolidate the Trizec structure and as
a result records 100% of the assets and debt on its balance sheet and nets down
to its 45% effective interest through two balance sheet line items:
"Non-controlling Interests – Fund Subsidiaries" and “Capital Securities – Fund
Subsidiaries.”
4. The US Office fund square footage listed in BPO's disclosure
documents (1Q09) is inclusive of all assets at 100%.
5. Brookfield does not manage Blackstone’s assets (Midtown Manhattan
and Los Angeles) and as a result has provided identified these assets in their
disclosure documents in italics with a footnote describing them as
“non-managed.”
6. The joint venture agreement with Blackstone provides for a
put/call as well as a valuation and cash flow ‘true-up’ which are described on
page 63 of BPO's 2008 Annual Report.
7. The $270 million of NOI referred to (at NAREIT), represented the
NOI from the buildings managed by Brookfield through its US Office Fund or 73%
of total NOI at acquisition date. It did not refer to the NOI from the buildings
managed by Blackstone (or 27%).
8. Applying a 5% cap rate to the NOI at inception would result in a
value of $5.4 billion ($270 / 5%) for the assets managed by Brookfield through
the US Office Fund (or 73%).
9. The $320 million of NOI referred to(at NAREIT) represented the
NOI from the buildings managed by Brookfield through its US Office Fund or 73%
of total NOI expected in 2011. It did not refer to the NOI from the buildings
managed by Blackstone (or 27%).
I think the next round of CRE financings in might be "loan
to owns." Meaning, the lending entity, takes the burden off of the current
lender, who is stretched and forced to extend or take back property. Many of
these lenders or entities, do not want the property, or can not afford the
property, and they have been using the philosophy of "pretend and extend."
The new lenders I foresee, will make sure monies are available, with plenty of
cushion in a carefully constructed Loan to Value, and when the short term band
aid comes due, it is my belief that the new entity will swiftly take control of
such an asset.
I think this is where the new great investments will be. Brookfield, in my
opinion, was once such a type of company, and in my opinion, it is
possible, that they will lose material assets and equity, to this type of event.
Questions I asked BAM on February 2, 2010 (BAM indicated they will get back to me after February 19, 2010.)
1. Will any of the new consortiums be buying assets or monetizing
assets of any BAM or BAM related investments. Are there any provisions the
outside investors discussed or signed off on in regards to related party
transactions?
2. Would you please explain in detail the related party sale, gain and contract
amendment with Great Lakes Hydro from 3Q09? Was this amendment identified in the
prospectus prior to the transactions? Specifically look at the contract
amendment on Brookfield Renewable Power which seemed unexpected, and I think was
paid to BAM for $349M, and see if that was part of the realization gain on BAM
books for 3Q09. Interesting that BAM recorded 3 month net income of $112M. Would
there have been a Net Loss had the related party realization gain of $346M not
occurred? Was the $346M realization gain also part of the $349M contract
amendment?
3. On page 7 of the Q3 / 2009 Supplemental Information you wrote the following,
“We believe that our underlying values have increased by at least this much over
the first nine months of the year with the result that our current
deconsolidated debt to total capitalization ratio has improved from the 15%
ratio at the beginning of 2009. Our proportionate debt-to-total-capitalization
ratio was 44% at the beginning of the year and we believe that it also has
improved as a result of increases in underlying values and lower debt levels.”
Your stock price was at $15.27 on 12/31/08 and $22.71 on 9/30/09. Haven’t your
ratios increased because of the stock price increase?
4. You have High-yield bonds and distressed debt of $411M on 9/30/09; this is up
from $60M in June 2009. Are any of these assets related party assets? Does BAM
categorize some related party purchases of investments to this section?
5. Please explain the Loans Receivable of $388M on 9/30/09. Again, is any of
this from related parties?
6. Has the SEC or SEDAR issued comment letters to any of the consolidated
entities other than Brookfield Homes?
7. It is my understanding that Trizec debt is partially owned by BAM. Please
elaborate. What was cost and what is current carrying value? Are there any
impairments? Is any of the Trizec of Brookfield Property consolidated debt in a
special servicing situation, any delinquencies or delayed payments (even if
accepted by lender)? You discussed CMBS financing in your shareholder letter,
and that you primarily utilized “traditional mortgage financing.” Do you
consider primarily interest only loans (i.e. 1 Liberty Plaza) as traditional?
Does the ownership of Trizec paper at all conflict with your theory of leverage
and excess liquidity offered to entities prior to the “crisis?”
8. Your 3Q09 shareholder letter stated, “Notwithstanding the challenging
business environment, we recorded strong results for the quarter, generating
cash flows from operations of $520 million, which compares favourably with $355
million last year. These results were assisted by our disposition of a portion
of our investment in Canadian power plants.” Was any of this not a result of a
related party transaction? Did any of this include the contract amendment of
$349M?
9. BAM has a bit of hedging in most of their consolidated entities. Are any of
the hedging gains, losses, mark to markets, as well as transactions being done
by BAM related entities?
10. Why did Brookfield Properties buy certain assets from Western Forest
Products (a consolidated BAM entity)? We know that Western Forest is distressed,
and wondering if there were synergies as to why Brookfield Properties bought the
interests?
11. You mentioned in your 3Q09 shareholder letter, “Unfortunately, many new
investors entered the market over the past four years and made at least one of
three fatal mistakes. They either: (1) paid too much; (2) had growth assumptions
that were too high; or worst of all, (3) employed excessive debt leverage." You
wrote that in connection with Infrastructure Assets. Yet, please describe if you
think that any of the large purchases by BAM over the last 4 years were also
part of such a group. Multiplex and Trizec seem to fit that mold. Please
explain.
12. You also mentioned in the 3Q09 letter, “And while the capital markets’
recovery has allowed a number of property companies to refloat themselves on
their own, there are many other situations where the clock is ticking and where
major deleveraging may be required. Those who have no credible sponsor with the
necessary capital represent suitable opportunities for us to assist with their
recapitalizations.” Please elaborate that in regards to Trizec. It seems as
though the LTV and current conditions will not allow for a refinance. The LTV is
generally known to be underwater.
13. I find it interesting that your 3Q09 shareholder letter mentioned,
“simple-to-understand assets.” To me, the structure of BAM as an entity, with
all her tentacles, seems hardly “simple-to-understand.” Please elaborate.
BAM did answer this. Here is their response. "The
Letter said the assets/businesses are simple to understand. That is the
business, industries, etc. related to power, real estate and infrastructure are
pretty straightforward. They are cash flow generating assets that tend to
increase in value over time, require minimal capex with high barriers to entry.
In many cases they are regulated businesses.
You are making a different point, in that the accounting may be complex. We do
disagree with that."
I responded with the following. I think the complexity is not in the accounting,
but in the nature of your set up.
BAM answered this with, "I think we are saying
same thing a little differently re: the complexity issue. The assets/businesses
themselves are not complex. It is how we own them and account for them – through
both public and private vehicles."
14. Do you consider Capital Securities and Preferred Stock to be Equity or
Liabilities?
BAM now owns 49.7% of Brookfield Properties
BAM filed a 13-G in respect to their ownership of Brookfield
Properties on February 2, 2010. They previously owned 50.1%, and now own
49.7%.
I am not sure if they are still required to consolidate BPO into
BAM now. As a general rule, if a company owns 50% or greater shares, they are
required to consolidate.
Going from memory, I think BAM would still consolidate BPO for 2009, since they
owned > 50% for most of the year. Obviously, BAM exercises control over BPO. I
just don't remember what happens with 49.7%.
The following is from The US GAAP GUIDE.
"In substance, a single economic or accounting entity exists when
one company (investor) owns a controlling interest in another entity (investee).
(FASB ASC 810-10-10-1) (formerly ARB 51, par. 1) In such cases, consolidated
financial statements are presumed to be more meaningful than separate financial
statements, and an investor should issue consolidated, rather than parent
company financial statements, as its primary financial statements. (FASB ASC
810-10-45-11) (formerly ARB 51, par. 24)
Usually, a controlling financial interest is evidenced by ownership of a
majority voting interest. Thus, as a general rule, when a company directly or
indirectly owns more than fifty percent of the outstanding voting shares of
another entity, it should account for its investment through consolidation
unless—
a. control does not rest with the majority owners (for example, if an entity is
in legal reorganization or operates under foreign exchange or governmental
restrictions so severe that they cast significant doubt on the owners’ ability
to control the entity) (FASB ASC 810-10-15-8 and 15-10) (formerly ARB 51, par.
2), or
b. noncontrolling shareholder(s) have certain approval or veto rights that allow
the minority shareholder(s) to participate in significant decisions related to
the investee’s ordinary course of business. (FASB ASC 810-10-15-10) (formerly
EITF 96-16.
Consolidation also is required when the controlling financial interest is
achieved through means other than ownership of a majority voting interest. In
certain situations, an entity that has a variable interest in another entity is
required to consolidate the variable interest entity (VIE). (See paragraph
12.228)"
I imagine this will be addressed if any changes from consolidation are made.
Just something that caught my eye. I did question BAM on this, and here
was their response. They did confirm to me that BAM will still consolidate
BPO. Here was their reply. The confirmation was not sent till
later that day, hence not included in their reply.
"The annual 13G filing reports BAM’s common share interest in BPO is 49.7%. What it does not show is that BAM has ownership of Redeemable Voting Preferred Shares, which give us control over the 50% level. For background, see the information on Redeemable Voting Preferred shares from BPO’s annual information form from last year.
VOTING SHARES
At March 17, 2009, Brookfield Properties had outstanding 391,118,440 common shares and 14,201,980 Class A Redeemable Voting
preferred shares. If you are a holder of common shares or Class A Redeemable Voting preferred shares of record at the close of business
on March 17, 2009, the record date established for the receipt of meeting materials and for voting in respect of the Meeting, you will be
entitled to one vote in respect of each such share held by you on all matters that come before the Meeting. For a description of the
procedures to be followed if you are a Non-Registered Holder to direct the voting of shares beneficially owned, see “Non-Registered
Holders” on page 1 of this Circular.
PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF VOTING SHARES
To our knowledge, the only person or corporations beneficially owning, directly or indirectly, or exercising control or direction over,
securities of Brookfield Properties entitled to vote at the Meeting carrying more than 10% of the votes attached to any class of
outstanding securities of Brookfield Properties is Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (“BAM”), which, directly and indirectly, owns
197,383,928 common shares and 13,796,870 Class A Redeemable Voting preferred shares as of December 31, 2008, being
approximately 50.5% and 97.1%, respectively, of the outstanding shares of each such class. BAM is focused on property, power and
infrastructure assets and has approximately $80 billion of assets under management. BAM’s shares are listed on the New York and
Toronto stock exchanges (the “NYSE” and “TSX”, respectively) under the symbols BAM and BAM.A, respectively, and on Euronext
under the symbol BAMA."
National Bank Financial issues report on Brookfield Properties 2/3/10
National Bank Financial has issued a report on Brookfield
Properties. Their thesis is basically that BPO has world class assets, low
relative valuation, great investment potential with new consortium, upside to
Manhattan and residential businesses. They mention that BAM owns
50.5% of BPO. That is now adjusted (as of this morning) to 49.7%.
They feel that the Merrill space coming due in 2013 is an opportunity and not a
risk. Interesting take. Not saying it is wrong. I have heard this before. I
don't buy it, but certainly possible, and a lot can happen in 3 years.
They identify other risks that all companies have. This includes cap rates,
Merrill, economy etc.
What they did not surprisingly identify as a risk, is that they have over $3
BILLION coming due in less than 22 MONTHS.
Someone made the following statement in regards to our analysis. "Do you really think BAM/BPO would go through all the effort and exposure to announce a $5.5 billion real estate turnaround consortium if they weren't totally confident in their ability to refinance the Trizec debt? Of course not!"
My response is as follows:
I disagree. I think if BAM/BPO could get commitments on $5.5B,
take it , why not. Perhaps you are on the industry inside, and have more info
then us. Very possible as well, that BPO could refinance Trizec.
Perhaps there will be a "loan to own financing." Maybe BPO
puts in enough equity, to get loan refinanced for 1 - 5 years, and unlike a
current lender, the future lender would have no issues foreclosing. On top
of this, if things were so grand, why would ratings agencies be downgrading BPO
credit, as they have. S&P ratings watch negative 5/09.
The same person mentioned, "At every CC throughout this credit crisis BPO has
made it clear that they were going to be a buyer of distressed properties, not a
seller. At the Q3 call Ric Clark stated that he hoped to announce more details
on the Trizec refinancing plan in early 2010, although he was obviously
reluctant to get into details as they are in the middle of negotiations. "
Here are some mentions of possible sale options for Trizec (US Office Fund
assets). I really did not see discussions of being a buyer of distressed
properties.
3Q09 BPO CC
Ric Clark - Brookfield Properties - CEO
"Assets within the US fund, there is some structuring that needs to be done
before we're kind of in a position to sell them. So, it's not likely that in the
next couple of months we'll be doing any transacting within the US office fund,
though I will say there are a couple of assets within the fund that Dennis has
been working on as possible sales options. So, it's probable that at some time
during 2010, we'll have a couple of mature assets within the fund that we sell."
2Q09 BPO CC
Dennis Friedrich - Brookfield Properties Corp - President, COO - US Commercial
Operations
"Yeah, John, on terms of the sales of assets within the Trizec we can sell
assets. There is, we have to pay release prices but there's not constraints that
prevent us from selling the assets."
Steve Douglas - Brookfield Properties Corp - President
"Looking past 2009, we have no major maturities to deal with in 2010 and remain
focused on the refinancing of our 2011 maturities including the US Office Funds
mezzanine debt. Brookfield's share of the debt on this US Office fund is $1.8
billion which is recourse only to the assets of the fund and matures in October
2011, and it was our intention to repay or refinance the facility through a
combination of new asset level financing and to asset sales, following our
efforts to increase the underlying cash flows of the assets through our leasing
initiatives."
Ric Clark - Brookfield Properties Corp - CEO
"Our first major refinancing comes in late 2011 relating to our US Office Fund.
At this point it's too early to give any specific update on the status of this,
but I can assure you we're actively working on this and expect to have a
refinancing recapitalization solution in advance of the maturity."
4Q08 BPO CC
Steve Douglas - Brookfield Properties Corp - Incoming President - Corporation
"Looking past 2009, we have minimal maturities to deal with. And we will turn
our attention to refinancing our 2011 maturities including the US Office Fund
Mezzanine debt."
"Brookfield share the debt on the US office fund; approximately it's $1.6
billion which is recourse only to the assets of the fund. It is our intention to
repay this facility through a combination of new asset level financing and
through asset sales, following on our efforts to increase the underlying cash
flows of these assets through our leasing initiatives. We have been actively
positioning these assets, some assets for sale commencing later this year. But
we anticipate a more robust environment at 2010 for asset sales.
Our capital plan does not currently anticipate having to inject additional
equity over and above what we have already invested as the Fund continues to
generate positive cash flow."
Issuance of Preferred Securities
BPO issues Series N Preferred Shares for $275M and 11M Shares.
On January 10, 2010, Brookfield Properties reported an issuance
of Preferred Shares, Series N will be issued at a price of C$25.00 per
share, for aggregate proceeds of C$150M.
It is my understanding, there might be another 2M share increase over the
original 6M, bringing a total potential of C$200M to Brookfield.
Series N will be entitled to receive a cumulative quarterly fixed dividend
yielding 6.15% annually for the initial 6
[1/2]-year period ending June 30, 2016. Thereafter, the dividend rate will be
reset every five years at a rate equal to the five-year Government of Canada
bond yield plus 3.07%.
General corporate purposes are stated as the use of the funds.
DBRS assigned a rating of Pfd-3 (high) with a Stable
trend.
http://dbrs.com/about/ratingScales
"Pfd-3 - Preferred shares rated Pfd-3 are of adequate credit quality.
While protection of dividends and principal is still considered acceptable, the
issuing entity is more susceptible to adverse changes in financial and economic
conditions, and there may be other adverse conditions present which detract from
debt protection. Pfd-3 ratings generally correspond with companies whose senior
bonds are rated in the higher end of the BBB category."
Brookfield Homes pays preferred dividend in Shares.
"On December 31, 2009, Brookfield Homes Corporation (the “Corporation”) paid a semi-annual dividend of $10,000,000 to holders of record of its $250,000,000 8% Convertible Preferred Stock, Series A. At its election, this dividend was paid by the Corporation issuing 1,608,567 shares of Common Stock of the Corporation at the volume weighted closing price of the Common Stock over the five consecutive trading days preceding the dividend declaration date of December 16, 2009, or approximately $6.21."
BAM to issue CDN $275M of preferred Shares
Brookfield Asset Management Inc. announced that as a result of strong investor demand for its previously announced public offering of Preferred Shares, Series 24, it has agreed to increase the size of the offering from CDN$150,000,000 to CDN$275,000,000 or from 6,000,000 Preferred Shares to 11,000,000 Preferred Shares. There will not be an underwriters' option, as was previously granted.
Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (TSX:BAM.A)(NYSE:BAM)(EURONEXT:BAMA)
announced today that it has agreed to issue to a syndicate of underwriters led
by Scotia Capital Inc., CIBC, RBC Capital Markets, and TD Securities Inc. for
distribution to the public 6,000,000 Preferred Shares, Series 24. The Preferred
Shares, Series 24 will be issued at a price of $25.00 per share, for aggregate
gross proceeds of CDN$150,000,000. Holders of the Preferred Shares, Series 24
will be entitled to receive a cumulative quarterly fixed dividend yielding 5.40%
annually for the initial period ending June 30, 2016. Thereafter, the dividend
rate will be reset every five years at a rate equal to the 5-year Government of
Canada bond yield plus 2.30%.
Holders of Preferred Shares, Series 24 will have the right, at their option, to
convert their shares into cumulative Preferred Shares, Series 25, subject to
certain conditions, on June 30, 2016 and on June 30 every five years thereafter.
Holders of the Preferred Shares, Series 25 will be entitled to receive
cumulative quarterly floating dividends at a rate equal to the three-month
Government of Canada Treasury Bill yield plus 2.30%.
Brookfield Asset Management Inc. has granted the underwriters an option,
exercisable in whole or in part at least two days prior to closing, to purchase
an additional 2,000,000 Preferred Shares, Series 24 at the same offering price.
The Preferred Shares will be offered by way of prospectus supplement under the
short form base shelf prospectus of Brookfield Asset Management Inc. dated
January 12, 2009. The prospectus supplement will be filed with securities
regulatory authorities in all provinces of Canada.
The net proceeds of the issue will be added to the general funds of Brookfield
Asset Management Inc. and be used for general corporate purposes. The offering
is expected to close on or about January 14, 2010. The preferred shares may not
be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons absent registration
or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the U.S.
Securities Act.
BAM Sues AIG Over Interest-Rate Swap Pact (12/22/09)
"American International Group Inc. is asking a federal judge to throw out what
the company calls a "lottery ticket" lawsuit filed by Brookfield Asset
Management Inc., which alleges "certain bankruptcy events of default have been
triggered under the parties' standard-form swap agreement" about 20 years ago,
according to court papers.
In a motion to dismiss filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of
New York, AIG contends that if Brookfield's allegations were true, "it would be
inexplicable that not a single other counterparty has sought to assert the same
position" as Brookfield, which claims the federal government's bailout of AIG
was tantamount to a bankruptcy default.
"Brookfield is desperately trying to evade a more than $1 billion obligation
owed to AIG," said spokesman Mark Herr. "We believe Brookfield's position is
without merit and should be rejected."
In its lawsuit filed late September 2009, Brookfield said the swaps entered into
in 1990 were automatically terminated "as a result of AIG's recent financial
collapse." According to court records, Brookfield said several provisions within
the swap deal, which was meant to protect each party from the other's severe
financial distress, were "plainly triggered." AIG has refused to concede a
default as outlined by the swap, Brookfield said in its suit.
AIG writes in court papers that Brookfield "purchased a litigation 'lottery
ticket' and hopes to pull off a massive and inequitable $1.2 billion windfall,
notwithstanding the fact that their claims lack a legal or factual basis."
Brookfield's legal action "flies directly in the face of the federal
government's goal in deciding to provide financial assistance to AIG: to prevent
AIG from triggering the very kinds of defaults that (Brookfield) now claims were
nonetheless triggered" and under this theory, "the billions that the federal
government has invested in AIG was for naught."
December 17, 2009 (21.71) Error in our covenant and change of control provision analysis.
If you 'Ctrl - F' you can search terms "change of control" or
"coven" Upon further research, we were made aware of an error. We
thank that person for pointing out the error. A change of control is not
triggered merely by a below investment grade rating. I think the
correct answer is, if there is a change in ownership, over a specified
percentage, and then , and only if the change of control happened, would there
be a potential triggering event with a credit downgrade. Hence, if BAM or
BRPI were brought below investment grade rating, the respective notes
would not be affected in terms, calls, or anything like that.
October 21, 2009 (23.09) Value Line Comparisons 9/09 to 3/07
This was corrected on 10/22/09 as I inadvertently missed a 3 for 2 Stock Split on June 4, 2007.
Observations:
Greater maturities in 5 years. Greater Maturities to Capital. Increased Debt Levels. Lower coverage ratios. Greater Debt to Capital. Greater underfunded pension. Greater preferred stock. Share count has decreased. Revenues have increased 60%. Revenues Per Share have increased 67%. EPS has decreased 60% . Book Value has increased by 15%. Cash Flow per share has increased by 8%. Decrease in tax rate, which leads to higher NI. Yet, that could be a sign that higher NI is not sustainable. Negative Working Capital now. Lower returns on equity and capital. Higher ratio of Dividends to Profits. Increased Institutional Holders. Fitch IDR was BBB+ in 3/07, now BBB.
Data Gathered:
|
|
Sept 2009 |
March 2007 (12/06) Split Adjusted |
|
Price |
22.54 |
35.43 |
|
Total Debt |
31,063 |
22,808 |
|
Debt Due in 5 Years |
17,500 |
2,308 |
|
Total Interest Expense |
1,770 |
1,100 |
|
Interest Coverage Ratio |
1.1X |
2.0X |
|
Debt to Capital |
82% |
71% |
|
Pension Assets |
983 |
75 |
|
Pension Obligations |
1,156 |
100 |
|
Common Stock O/S |
571.91 |
598.98 |
|
Preferred Stock |
1,144 |
689 |
|
Market Cap |
12.9B |
21.2B |
|
Annual Revenues |
11,000 est |
6,897 |
|
EPS |
0.75 est |
1.90 |
|
Revs per share |
19.20 est |
11.51 |
|
Cash Flow Share |
3.20 est |
2.95 |
|
Book Value per Share |
10.40 est |
9.01 |
|
Operating Margin |
36.0% est |
54.8% |
|
Depreciation |
1,400 est |
600 |
|
Net Profit |
430 est |
1,170 |
|
Tax Rate |
8.0 % est |
24.2% |
|
Working Capital |
(2,000) est |
1,500 |
|
Shareholder Equity |
7,000 est |
6,084 |
|
Return on Total Capital |
3.5% est |
6.5% |
|
Return on Share Equity |
6.0% est |
19.2% |
|
Retained to Common Equity |
2.5% est |
17.2% |
|
All Dividends to Net Profit |
69% est |
21% |
|
Analyst |
S. Abdou |
S. Abdou |
|
5 Year Price Projection High |
50 |
47 |
|
5 Year Price Projection Low |
35 |
33 |
|
Institutional Holders Shares |
318,487 |
312,020 |
September 30, 2009 Fitch Ratings has downgraded the ratings on Brookfield Asset Management
Fitch Ratings has downgraded the ratings on Brookfield Asset
Management (NYSE and TSX: BAM) as follows:
--Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to 'BBB' from 'BBB+';
--Unsecured line of credit to 'BBB' from 'BBB+';
--Senior unsecured notes to 'BBB' from 'BBB+'.
"The Rating Outlook is Stable.
"The lower ratings reflect Fitch's concerns as to the overall sustainability of
cash flows from BAM investments within its diversified business portfolio,
particularly given its large exposure to commercial real estate and the
wholesale power markets."
"The complex corporate structure and sizable number of related-party
transactions continue to be rating concerns."
"BAM's ratings continue to be supported by high cash flow coverage of its
corporate debt service and low leverage at the BAM level. The ratings are
further supported by a strong management track record, geographic
diversification of investments, relative strength in cash flows from assets
under management, and demonstrated access to third party capital at both the
corporate and asset levels during a very challenging fundraising environment
over the past year. In addition, BAM is relatively better positioned to weather
the current economic challenges as it owns interests in premier portfolios of
office buildings in major financial centers including New York, London, and
Toronto with strong tenancy and manageable lease maturities. Similarly on the
power side, BAM owns over 4,000MW of hydroelectric generation with a stable
revenue stream as approximately 70% to 80% of output is contracted over the next
two to 12 years. Hydroelectric generation benefits as the lowest cost generator
of electricity, modest capital expenditure requirements, and is environmentally
friendly.
Fitch also notes that BAM actively acquires and divests investments and the
composition of its portfolio has shifted over time. BAM's assets under
management have grown materially in recent years, as the businesses that the
company controls have added scale, and the company has actively sought partners
for the bulk of its investments."
"Fitch is comfortable that BAM has access to at least $1.06 billion of
sustainable annual cash flow based on investments held on June 30, 2009."
"Fitch estimates that current cash flows are ample to service its corporate
obligations, which included $2.9 billion of term debt held directly or
guaranteed by the company, $100 million of commercial paper and bank borrowings,
and $600 million of convertible preferred securities at June 30, 2009.
Additionally, BAM has the ability to monetize some investments as necessary to
fund obligations.
BAM's corporate debt maturity schedule is reasonable, with $200 million of
corporate maturities over the next two years and minimal exposure to
variable-rate debt.
BAM maintains a strong liquidity position and financial flexibility with access
to a wide variety of global capital sources. On June 30, 2009, BAM had $536
million in cash on hand and approximately $1.3 billion in unused capacity
through committed, unsecured credit facilities. Additionally, BAM maintains a
pool of highly liquid marketable securities that could be liquidated in a
relatively short period of time."
Septermber 18, 2009 Songbird increases ownership of Canary Wharf Group
If they purchased 8.45% for ~$185M USD, then full value would extrapolate to
$2.1B. If I recall BAM owns 15% of Canary Wharf. BAM sold their interest in
Canary Wharf on 12/3/08 to Brookfield Europe LP in exchange for an approximately
42% limited partnership interest in Brookfield Europe LP with a fair market
value of £333,800,000 and cash proceeds in the amount of £107,600,000."
If I interpret the above correctly, BAM sold their 15% interest in Canary Wharf
for £441M. I think that equated to $524 USD on 12/03/08.
That looks as though BAM valued Canary Wharf in full for $3.5B.
Perhaps I made an error. Of course valuations may differ based on time, needs of
seller, needs of buyer, etc. Here are questions or comments I would have in
respect to above.
1. Are my assumptions, givens and interpretations correct?
2. Account for the difference of entire valuation of $2.1B valuation in todays
sale, versus $3.5B using BAM's metrics in sale.
3. Via the sale to a related party, was a gain recorded? BAM has preveiously
claimed the following: "The sale was by Brookfield Investments Corp., a 100%
owned subsidiary. Therefore there is no income recognition on the transaction."
Hence, I have no reason to believe that any gain was recorded.
4. Were there a step of assets on the GAAP balance sheet due to this? BAM
affirmed on page 43 of 1Q09,that Canary Wharf is being reported at Historical
Cost. I can not verify that since Canary Wharf was sold to a related party. I do
not know if the asset was marked up in a similar fashion that Pingston Power and
Prince Wind was, when Sold to Great Lakes (related and consolidated subsidiary).
What value is being used for IFRS?
5. Would BAM have been able to generate such a sale to an unrelated party for
simialr proceeds?
6. Were the proceeds of this sale reflected in the increased liquidity and
monetizations that BAM has been discussing this year, and at 2009 Investor Day?
August 31, 2009
Brookfield Prop to raise C$250M via preferreds.
"NEW YORK, August 31, 2009 – Brookfield Properties Corporation
(BPO: NYSE, TSX) announced today that it has agreed to issue to a syndicate of
underwriters led by CIBC and Scotia Capital Inc. for distribution to the public,
6.0 million 6.75% Preferred Shares, Series L. The Preferred Shares, Series L
will be issued at a price of C$25.00 per share, for aggregate gross proceeds of
C$150 million. Holders of the Preferred Shares, Series L will be entitled to
receive a cumulative quarterly fixed dividend yielding 6.75% annually for the
initial five year period ending September 30, 2014. The dividend rate will be
reset on September 30, 2014 and every five years thereafter at a rate equal to
the 5-year Government of Canada bond yield plus 4.17%.
Holders of Preferred Shares, Series L will have the right, at their option, to
convert their shares into cumulative Preferred Shares, Series M, subject to
certain conditions, on September 30, 2014 and on September 30 every five years
thereafter. Holders of the Preferred Shares, Series M will be entitled to
receive cumulative quarterly floating dividends at a rate equal to the
three-month Government of Canada Treasury Bill yield plus 4.17%.
Brookfield Properties Corporation has granted the underwriters an over-allotment
option, exercisable in whole or in part anytime up to 30 days following closing,
to purchase an additional 900,000 Preferred Shares, Series L at the same
offering price. Should the over-allotment option be fully exercised, the total
gross proceeds of the financing will be C$172.5 million.
The Preferred Shares, Series L will be offered by way of a short-form prospectus
filed with securities regulatory authorities in all provinces of Canada.
The net proceeds of the issue will be added to the general funds of Brookfield
Properties Corporation and be used for general corporate purposes. The offering
is expected to close on or about September 24, 2009."
The following is a press release from Standard & Poor's:
OVERVIEW
-- We assigned our 'BB+' global scale rating and our 'P-3 (High)' Canadian
national scale rating to Brookfield Properties Corp.'s new C$250 million
preferred share issue (series L).
-- The preferred shares will be listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
-- Our ratings on Brookfield acknowledge the comparatively favorable
second-quarter performance for the company's well-leased and high-quality office
portfolio, as well as its currently reduced exposure to development
activity.
-- However, our negative outlook continues to reflect our concerns regarding
very challenging and competitive office market fundamentals, an above-average
leverage profile that results in weak fixed-charge coverage metrics, and sizable
debt maturities in 2011 related to joint ventures.
August 28, 2009 (20.61) Notes to 2Q09 Filing
1. During 2009, BAM purchased
3,200 residential lots in Riverside County, California through two court
foreclosure proceedings. I need to find out if any of these purchases were via
related parties, instruments or joint venture partners. I am assuming not, but
would like verification.
2. In the BAM 2Q09 report they discussed the sale of substantially all of their
Canadian Hydroelectric generation assets to a Great Lakes Hydro Income Fund.
Great Lakes is consolidated into BAM. I found it interesting that they mentioned
the following. “…as we purchase a substantial part of the electricity generated
by the Fund on a fixed price basis and then re-sell it along with the
electricity produced by the balance of our operations.” I find it interesting to
see if they will be selling electricity, in materiality, to other related
parties.
3. BAM is using a capitalization rate of 7.6% to value their power generation
portfolio. A 100- basis point change in the discount rate and a 10% change in
long-term power prices is claimed to change the valuation by $0.9 billion. I
find a 7.6% capitalization rate for an operating entity to be low by at least
2.4% (or 240 basis points.)
4. During 2Q09 BAM recognized a gain and earnings of $65M for the exchange of
debt into common shares. This seems to be a regular type situation for BAM with
other subsidiaries as well.
August 28, 2009 Fitch Rates Brookfield Incorporacoes' First Debentures Issuance 'A+(bra)'
“SAO PAULO & RIO DE JANEIRO, Aug 28, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fitch Ratings has assigned the national long-term debt rating of 'A+(bra)' to the proposed first simple debentures issuance, not convertible into shares, of Brookfield Incorporacoes S.A. (Brookfield Incorporacoes), in the total amount of BRL100 million, with final maturity on Sept. 1, 2013. The proceeds will be used for company general purposes. Fitch has already rated Brookfield Incorporacoes' foreign and local currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) 'BB-', and national long-term rating 'A+(bra)'. The Rating Outlook of the corporate ratings is Negative.
Brookfield Incorporacoes' ratings reflect the integration of the company's operations, which include a solid and geographically diversified land bank (Potential Sales Value (PSV) of BRL14.4 billion in June 2009); the strong shareholders structure and the capital support of the controlling group; and its operating scale expansion through strategic acquisitions carried out in 2008, which led the company to rank among the country's four largest real estate developers. The ratings also consider Brookfield Incorporacoes' satisfactory liquidity position and financial flexibility, resulting from the robust reserve of receivables of completed units not linked to debt, among other factors. The ratings further factor in the fact that Brookfield Incorporacoes should gradually return to more conservative credit measures, compatible with its ratings, after the significant impact on these measures from the merger of the formerly Company S.A. in October 2008, which had its name changed to Brookfield Sao Paulo Empreendimentos Imobiliarios S.A. The company also has as a major challenge the management of its consolidated operations in a scenario of weaker operating margins as a result of its greater focus on residential projects for the medium-low income segment, with lower margins.
Brookfield Incorporacoes' Negative Outlook is consistent with the rating action taken by Fitch for the overall homebuilding sector on Jan. 21, 2009, reflecting the expectation that homebuilders in Brazil will face a challenging operating environment as well as significant financial pressures in 2009 and 2010.
The ratings incorporate the negative impact that the merger of the formerly Company S.A. had on the Brookfield Incorporacoes' financial profile. For the last 12 months (LTM) ending June 30, 2009, adjusted consolidated EBITDA margin was 20.3%, well below Brookfield Incorporacoes' 39.1% stand-alone margin in LTM ending Sept. 30, 2008, before the incorporation of the formerly Company S.A. This result, however, remains compatible with the sector average. Despite the uncertainties created by a weaker macroeconomic environment and the retracted demand for residential properties in the last quarter of 2008, the volume of pre sales remained high. The consolidated results also reflect the negative accounting effects deriving from Law 11.638. The expectation is that the expansion of operations of Brookfield Incorporacoes in the medium-low and economic income segments, with higher growth potential and demand stimulated by the federal government measures, should increase EBITDA in 2009 and 2010, with operating margins remaining, however, at lower levels.
The merger with the formerly Company S.A. and expansion of project launches increased Brookfield Incorporacoes' leverage. As of June 30, 2009, total consolidated debt reached BRL1,148 million, compared to BRL473 million of Brookfield Incorporacoes, on a stand-alone basis, at end-September 2008. This increase resulted from Brookfield Incorporacoes' strategy to maintain its project launching goals, notwithstanding the global crisis, in the fourth quarter of 2008, raising BRL549 million of working capital lines in the period. Leverage, measured by total debt/adjusted EBITDA and net debt/adjusted EBITDA ratios, increased to 4.6 times (x) and 3.7x at end-June 2009, respectively, from 1.8x and 1.0x in September 2008, considering only Brookfield Incorporacoes. Such ratios are weak for the rating category, and Fitch's expectation is that the EBITDA increase expected for 2009 and 2010 and the future transfer of receivables contribute to reduce leverage ratios to levels more compatible with the ratings. The BRL251 million EBITDA in LTM ending in June 2009 considers BRL25 million of interest allocated to costs.”
Capex Discussion – Not necessarily related to BAM
If capex is funded via debt, it will not show up in Statement of Cash Flows.
"Information about Noncash Investing and Financing Activities
FAS95, Par. 32
32. Information about all investing and financing activities of an enterprise during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period shall be reported in related disclosures. Those disclosures may be either narrative or summarized in a schedule, and they shall clearly relate the cash and noncash aspects of transactions involving similar items. Examples of noncash investing and financing transactions are converting debt to equity; acquiring assets by assuming directly related liabilities, such as purchasing a building by incurring a mortgage to the seller; obtaining an asset by entering into a capital lease; and exchanging noncash assets or liabilities for other noncash assets or liabilities. Some transactions are part cash and part noncash; only the cash portion shall be reported in the statement of cash flows."
When a capital expenditure or equipment purchase or any asset purchase is financed, it will never show up on the statement of cash flows as capex. It will be recorded as an asset on the balance sheet, the debt will be recorded and of course depreciation and interest expense will show up on Statement of Cash Flows and Income Statement. You will also see the principal repayments show up.
This is an area that can be manipulated. A company could make capex look a lot less than it really is. Just another area to look at.
I mentioned previously with BAM, that now that assets are coming out of development, you could see expenses go up, since formerly capitalized costs will be immediately expensed, and past costs will now be depreciated, when the asset is placed in service.
Capex is a place where accounting games can be played. One example is equipment could be bought via a note payable. That will not be reflected in cash flow statement as capex. Yet, in future cash flow statement would be adjusted for the depreciation on such equipment, as well as debt pay-downs on the note. That is also why interest only and other exotics are interesting to watch.
Third Avenue Value and BAM
On
June 30, 2008 Third Ave Funds owned 24,473,987 shares.
On June 30, 2009 Third Ave Funds owned 21,032,601 shares.
This is a decrease in owned shares of 3,441,386 shares.
This is a reduction of 14.06%.
At current price of $20.85 this is a reduction of $71,752,898.
BAM, Beer etc.
http://beerzology.blogspot.com/2009/08/history-of-beer-timeline.html
“1971
Peter Bronfman (1929-1996) and his brother Edward Bronfman co-owned the Montreal
Canadiens hockey team. Their uncle, Samuel, was the founder of the liquor
company, Seagram Co. Ltd. The brothers acquired holdings in Brascan Ltd., a
property mgmt. company, Noranda Inc., a natural resource company, and John
Labatt Ltd., one of Canada’s 2 biggest brewers.”
“2005 Apr 4
In Canada Edward Bronfman, Canadian businessman, died. Bronfman and his brother,
Peter, built Edper Investments Ltd. into a business with interests ranging from
forestry and mining to banking, beer and hockey to form the core of what is
today Brascan Corp.”
Someone who is fluent in BAM wrote the following. I have not verified its accuracy.
“Yeah it goes something like this. Samuel Bronfman was a bootlegger who rolled
his fortune into the Seagram company. At one point the Bronfman family was one
of the wealthiest, if not the wealthiest, families in Canada.
Two of his kids, Peter and Edward, inherited a small portion of the family
fortune, and at one point hired Jack L. Cockwell from accounting firm Edper to
advise them. This led to a business partnership between Cockwell and the
Bronfmans, with Edper as the investment vehicle. Cockwell also controlled a
company named Hees International that provided merchant banking and financing
services. Two of the early investments were the Labatt brewing company and
mining company Noranda. They were also involved in Trizec Properties. This was
~30 years ago.
They effected a takeover of Brascan, and (summarizing a lot of history here),
Hees, Edper, and Brascan were eventually amalgamated into the Brascan of the
late 1990's, which was renamed to Brookfield Asset Management. Jack L. Cockwell
is still the "group chairman" of BAM.
Labatt's was sold by Brascan in 1993. This included a bunch of other businesses
including sports teams and real estate.
The Bronfman brothers are both dead (Peter in 1996 and Edward in 2005). All of
these people had connections to Trizec which has ranked as one of the largest
real estate companies in Canada for much of its history. I have wondered if
Edward Bronfman's death was a catalyst to BPO's acquisition of Trizec. I don't
know how active of a role he played at Trizec at the time of his death. But
Trizec and what-is-now-BAM have been affiliated with one another for decades.”
245 Park Avenue Revisited
On
4/8/08 Flatt told an Syracuse University Audience, "We Purchased 245 park ave
for $250 sq foot or $500M in 1995. property now worth $2B. havent purhcased a
property in NYC in 2 years because prices are high."
245 Park Ave is reported by Reis to be 1,586,000 SF. Hence, BAM seems to have
paid around $317 SF.
Using Flatt's $2B number, that comes out to $1,261 per square foot.
Here would be the value of 245 Park Avenue if using various values. Keep in mind that Brookfield Properties reports the square footage without parking to be 1,719,000 SF. Hence, I adjusted the computations below for the 1,719M SF.
|
Hypothetical Value per SF |
$350 SF |
$500SF |
$700SF |
$1,000 SF |
$1,163 SF |
|
Building Value |
$602M |
$860M |
$1,203M |
$1,719M |
$2,000M |
Here is an article which discussed current prices and valuations for Class A buildings in NYC. http://www.observer.com/2009/real-estate/10-most-expensive-buildings-revisited
Here are snippets from that article:
“The 2007 most expensive list included, along with the GM Building: 9 West 57th
Street; Rockefeller Center; 200 Park Avenue; the Seagram Building; 4 Times
Square; One Bryant Park; 245 Park Avenue; 277 Park Avenue; and the one
non-midtown entry, 7 World Trade Center. Based on interviews with real estate
professionals, their values have declined anywhere between 25 and 60 percent.”
“The big picture is that most properties that transferred in the last five years
are worth less than the debt,” wrote Cushman & Wakefield sales guru Yoron Cohen
in an email. “The markets provided huge leverage to buyers which were based on
extremely optimistic future growth of rents. It was out of control. Buildings
like 885 Third (the Lipstick Building) were sold for $1,000 per square foot, and
it is worth about a third of that number.”
“You’re like the grim reaper,” chided Howard Michaels, chairman of the Carlton
Group, before acknowledging, “All the buildings that were bought were bought on
the expectation of increasing rents and that hasn’t happened. You combine that
with higher cost of capital on financing, and buildings are worth less.”
“The big picture is that most properties that transferred in the last five years
are worth less than the debt,” wrote Cushman & Wakefield sales guru Yoron Cohen
in an email. “
“If we’re talking about better-quality buildings, we’re seeing price ranges in
$350 to $600 a square foot,” he said. “And the super-premium buildings, such as
9 West [57th], the GM Building, 450 Park, etc., that handful or two of
buildings, none of them have traded. So what they’re worth is pure conjecture.
Based upon the rental premiums they achieve, they’re probably worth $800 a foot,
but given their scarcity value, who’s to say what someone wouldn’t pay for
them?”
Rumors of 9665 Wilshire Blvd being sold?
Word is that 171K SF is being sold by Brookfield and Blackstone. CBRE looks to
be agent. Early talk is $83M. Supposedly excellent location. I think the
building was acquired as part of the Trizec purchase. I think the Trizec deal
valued the building at $92.3M. This would be a price of 11% less than 2006
purchase. Don't forget, BPO and BAM stepped up basis on purchase of Trizec.
Hence, all in cost is being reflected at a larger amount on GAAP financials.
Grace Building signs a lease
“Brookfield Properties’ Grace Building at 1114 Avenue of the Americas, debt
restructuring specialist Zolfo Cooper has signed a new 14-year,
26,000-square-foot lease on the 41st floor. Zolfo will relocate from about
17,000 square feet at Edward J. Minskoff Equities’ 1166 Avenue of the Americas.”
“They’re a consulting firm that does a lot of debt restructuring,” said Mr.
Amrich, who also represented Zolfo. “So, obviously, in this environment, they’re
very busy.”
“The asking rent was about $85 a square foot for the space, which Brookfield is
building out. The taking rent was likely much lower. Patrice Hayden and Mr.
Urrutia worked with Mr. Amrich in representing Zolfo in negotiations with
Brookfield’s David Cheikin.”
Brookfield Properties reports average in-place rent in midtown Manhattan was $37.34 at the end of 2008.
I
think that Grace building hopes for and currently gets a lot more than $37.34
SF.
1114 Ave of Americas is the location. This is part of what is called "Grand
Central Sub Market" in NYC. According to a NYC CRE industry insider, this
property has the following information.
The asking rent of this class A builing was $134 SF. I think that is a AAA net
lease. Size of building reported at 1,380,330 SF.
Some comps:
Description***********************asking rent SF
1133 Avenue of the Americas**********$76.55
1095 Avenue of the Americas********$$129.98
1166 Avenue of the Americas**********$78.27
1185 Avenue of the Americas**********$91.41
1211 Avenue of the Americas**********$72.12
101 Park Ave************************$120.39
245 Park Ave************************$144.36
Just using Grace Building as an example, I would think its current value is $300
- $700 SF. If you are okay with that raw and generic valuation, the value of the
property would be around $414M to $1B.
July 27, 2009 Western Forest released earnings
Here are some notes.
1. Going concern opinion - Interesting to see such in an unaudited report.
Things of course are difficult. Covenants could be affected.
2. Credit Line with CIT Business Credit Canada (CITBCC). CITBCC is jointly owned
by CIT and CIBC. Hence, CIT liquidity issues do not at this point seem to
trickle down to CITBCC.
3. Western had a $50M rights subscription in January 2009, which was primarily
funded by Tricap (wholly owned by BAM).
4. March 2009 entered into a foreign exchange facility with BAM. Facility
expires in March 2010 and has a notional amount of US$80M. Company does not
think credit risk is material. Just noting that this is probably a derivative
type contract. Lot's of derivatives in the BAM web.
5. June 30, 2009 company under foreign exchange facility recognized a gain of
$0.7M, which was included in sales. Hence, on consolidation with BAM, one needs
to consider potential of non-recurring income and quality of earnings for both
Western and BAM. I don't think this income would never be identified in BAM
financials, and would probably be impossible to decipher, unless you studied
Western Forest Products. Not material of course, but you could see how this
usage could spread or be used (or has been continually used) within BAM
financials. (A little bit here and a little bit there.)
Here is what BAM wrote about Western Forest in their 2007 AR.
“Two principal investments in Tricap I are Western Forest Products and Concert
Industries. Western Forest Products experienced a difficult year due in part to
a major industry strike which has since been resolved. Concert Industries, a
leading producer of air-laid woven fabric, continues to perform well and we
continue to make progress expanding its revenue and operating base.”
"Our specialty funds’ revenues increased due to the consolidation of revenues
from Western Forest Products and Concert Industries and increased yields from
loans issued during the year. Similarly, investment income and other includes
revenues from operations consolidated during 2007 that were accounted for on the
equity method during 2006."
Here are notes I had on a Western Rights Offering in December 2008.
Western Forest Products has a rights offering:
"The shares acquired by Tricap include an aggregate of 236,500,018 shares of
Western that are beneficially owned by Brookfield Asset Management Inc.
("Brookfield Asset Management") and its affiliates and associates on a
consolidated basis ("Brookfield"). Following the rights offering, Brookfield
beneficially owns 49,124,547 common shares and 300,028,286 non-voting shares
representing approximately 38% and 89% of the issued and outstanding common
shares and non-voting shares of Western.
Tricap holds the shares for investment purposes. Tricap will continue to review
its investment alternatives and may acquire additional shares of Western or may,
subject to applicable securities laws, sell the shares it now holds in the open
market or in privately negotiated transactions to one or more persons.
Tricap acquired the shares pursuant to the exercise of rights issued by Western
in connection with a rights offering made by Western pursuant to a prospectus
dated December 1, 2008. Although Tricap entered into a standby agreement with
Western dated December 1, 2008 pursuant to which Tricap had agreed to purchase
all shares which were not subscribed for under the rights offering, due to the
exercise of the additional subscription privilege by rightholders, including
Tricap, it was not necessary for Tricap to purchase shares pursuant to the terms
of the standby purchase agreement.
Tricap will exercise control and direction over the shares acquired pursuant to
the terms of a co-investment agreement entered into between Tricap Management
Limited and each of the investors in the Tricap Restructuring Fund."
August 7, 2009 (20.26) Historical Cost Discussion after release of 2Q09 earnings. This is prior to release of SEC and SEDAR filings for BAM and all subs.
BAM historically discusses that traditional GAAP
and historical cost financial statements are not relevant to BAM. Their
reasoning is their claim that they generally hold assets for long periods of
time and their consolidated statements utilize GAAP accounting, which reflects
historical book values for most of their assets. To address this, they are
adopting International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) reporting at the
beginning of next year. They claim, under IFRS, the carrying values of assets
are adjusted to reflect underlying values as opposed to utilizing their
historical cost.
As long as one understands IFRS and the various methods and so forth, that is a
generically typical proper argument. One must understand that IFRS is
subjective, and is merely a guide. IFRS standards are evolving daily and there
will be changes. IFRS by BAM so far, has not been subjected to external auditors
of theirs (Deloitte). But, for a company that reports old typically revenue
generating assets (think Commercial Real Estate or Power Plants), that of course
IFRS disclosure is incredibly helpful.
In BAM's case and I have tried to ask them this, there seems to be a potential
flaw. For example, BAM sold Pingston Power and Prince Wind in 1Q09 to Great
Lakes Hydro Inc. (a 50.1% owned consolidated and related entity). The
transaction essentially between Great Lakes Hydro and Brookfield Asset
Management involved the sale of 49.9% of Pingston Hydro and 50% of Prince Wind.
The sale was done via a conduit called Great Lakes Power Trust. The balances of
the assets at December 31, 2008 were $348,483 for Prince Wind and $35,362 for
Pingston Hydro. This totals 383,845. The difference between Power Generating
Assets at transfer of $515,155 and the Net Book Value at 12/31/08 of $383,845
was $131,310. I think (but could be wrong) that Great Lakes Hydro stepped up the
basis. I think the stepped up basis flowed through to BAM. Hence BAM gets to use
a much greater than historical cost presentation in their GAAP financials. If
that is correct, wouldn't GAAP then be closer to fair value (IFRS)? Bringing
this further, what occurred when other assets over the last decade or so were
sold to consolidated entities? If these assets were stepped up in basis, then
the argument of historical cost presentation would be pierced, since the assets
already may have received a stepped up basis upon the sale to related party.
I have mentioned this here before, and I don't think it has been discussed. I
once asked BAM this question in relation to CRE and prior to Great Lakes
purchases, and BAM claimed that no step up occurred. Yet, when I read the 1Q09
SEC and SEDAR filings, it certainly looked like step up did occur. This could be
quite material. On another level, if you look at the assets on BAM financials,
you will see that total Assets increased from $20,007 in 2004 to $55,972 in
2009. Historical cost assets have increased (via purchases of course) by $35,965
during this period. Wouldn’t one argue that perhaps historical cost might
over-state asset value, since some of these assets could be or should I say,
probably are currently carrying values less than purchase price? I cite Trizec
and Multiplex as two examples.
"Our book value of $5.8 billion reflects the depreciated historical cost of many
assets, such as office properties and hydroelectric facilities, which were
acquired many years ago for values significantly below what they are worth
today." I find it quite interesting that so many of their assets were purchased
post 2004, and there is a good chance that many of those assets have a fair
value at less than historical cost. Two examples could be Trizec and Multiplex.
Again, BAM includes Goodwill as well in their book value mentions.
BAM values Renewable Power (going from memory) at
$6.2B.
Based on that, here is a very quick work up, that just builds a framework (very
early stage) and very back of envelope, and without any conclusion whatsover.
We know that Great Lakes currently has a Market Cap of around $3.0B, hence BAM
value could be $1.5B.
BRP values.
Great Lakes Hydro $1.5B
cash received Net .7B (very estimated, net of Great Lakes Subscription)
You would want to add value of BRP US and Brazil operations, add the cash,
subtract the debt, to find value of BRP. Would that come close to $6B. Time will
tell.
I think quite a material amount of US operations were purchased post 2005. Also,
I think some of Brazil operations were sold to BRP, from BAM in related party
transaction in 2008.
I found it interesting in GLH prospectus that BRP "maintains a strong balance
sheet and currently holds.... S&P rating of BBB," with no mention of recent
outlook negative. Remember, in recent BAM financing, there was a material change
of control provision. The change of control provision, if enacted, (via debt
downgrades) could be potentially financially stressful to BAM. Hence, I think
the document should have mentioned such.
SEDAR filings this Q and next, will be real interesting.
BAM is certainly getting, what appear to be great prices on recent sales (at
least the sales to related entities.)
And, then we have Brookfield Energy Marketing, Inc.
June 18, 2009 (17.75) Quick Thoughts on BAM
1. Quick thought...... One could consider (inverting) that Net Income (NI) and Cash Flow (CF) of BAM and subsidiaries, are elevated, due to sales and transactions with related companies. If this is the case, one should consider whether NI and CF are sustainable. Not only should one consider convenience of activities with related parties, but also perhaps prices that would not be available elsewhere. Possible examples of this could be, demand note lending in the past from BPO Properties, to Brookfield Properties, as attractive levels. Another example could be sales of Prince Wind and Pingston Hydro, from Brookfield Renewable to Great Lakes.
2. It will be interesting to see future NI, now that cost of capital has certainly increased via loan extensions and new loans as well. On the positive side, BAM has been able to secure funding in this difficult credit environment.
More Trizec Ramblings
On June 3, 2009 Ric Clark said the following in relation to Trizec. "We bought this company probably on a 5 cap going in when the portfolio was 88 -- and this was our part of the venture, was 88% leased and had a $270 million NOI. As of today, we've raised the NOI by $50 million. The portfolio is 93% leased. And we expect that the NOI will go up meaningfully between now and the time that that debt matures, just based on in-place leases."
It is my understanding that BAM has a 45% economic interest in Trizec. Yet, the 2006 AR of Brookfield Properties mentions, "To that end, during 2006, we launched and fully invested our first U.S. office fund in the $7.6 billion acquisition of Trizec. This transaction was completed in a partnership with the Blackstone Group with our fund owning 73% of the investment."
According to Brookfield Properties 2006 Annual Report, Trizec was purchased at a Purchase Price Book Value of $7,591M. It was also listed that the purchase was for 29M SF. Hence, if BPO owns effectively 73% of the investment, a cap rate of 5, would tie into the initial purchase price of $7,591. Here is calculation for showing that.
Value = ?
NOI = $369M ($270M/73% = $369) (from Rick Clark NAREIT presentation June 3, 2009)
Cap rate = 5% (mentioned by Rick Clark, NAREIT presentation June 3, 2009 )
Value = NOI/Cap rate
$7,380 = $369/.05
If NOI was $270M, and purchase price was $7,591, then the going in cap rate
would have been 3.56%. Yet, the question becomes, was the $270M NOI,
Brookfield's share or the full NOI? I don't know the answer.
Let me repeat what BPO said on June 3, 2009..."We bought this company
probably on a 5 cap going in when the portfolio was 88 -- and this was our part
of the venture, was 88% leased and had a $270 million NOI. As of today, we've
raised the NOI by $50 million. The portfolio is -- let's see, it's 93% leased.
And we expect that the NOI will go up meaningfully between now and the time that
that debt matures, just based on in-place leases."
I spoke with an industry insider in regards to the above quote, and here is what
that person mentioned. "A 5% cap rate, using $270M of NOI, would give a value
of $5.4B. They claim that NOI is now $320M, so that would be a 5.9% cap rate to
get what they paid. It seems like they would be hard-pressed to get 5.9% today.
They also had to put in additional capital to grow the NOI, which is offset by
cash flow, depreciation, etc.
As far as growing the NOI…rents have been up for some time and definitely down
now with maybe further to fall….so I would not be convinced that they can grow
NOI meaningfully without further investigation. Especially with office where
tenants usually don’t fully reimburse LL for operating expenses, real estate
taxes, etc."
Price per square foot would be $262. If I am not mistaken, 11% of the properties
was for parking, and I think some was sold off as well.
With that said, if we use the book value of $7,591, and use BPO's stated NOI of
$320M, and ignore the issues the industry insider said, we would get a current
cap rate of 4.22%.
Look at the values of NOI of $320M with various cap rates. Compare that to cost
of $7,591. The debt is currently $5,724M, of which $3.1B comes due in
2011. Interesting that the balance as per 2006 AR was $5,800. Does that
mean in 3 years $76M or 1.3% of the principal has been paid down?
Back of Envelope Value of NOI $320M on Trizec
|
Cap Rate |
Value if NOI was 100% |
Value if NOI was $439 (73%) |
|
|
|
|
|
5% |
$6.4B |
$8.8B |
|
6% |
$5.3B |
$7.3B |
|
7% |
$4.6B |
$6.3B |
|
8% |
$4.0B |
$5.5B |
|
9% |
$3.6B |
$4.9B |
|
10% |
$3.2B |
$4.3B |
From the 2006 AR "Equity offering In December, 2006, we entered into
agreements for the issuance of 33 million of our common shares. Under the
agreements, the underwriters purchased 20.625 million of our common shares at a
price of $38 per share. Concurrently, Brookfield Asset Management purchased,
directly or indirectly, 12.375 million of our common shares at a price of $38
per share. The gross proceeds from the combined share issuances totaled
approximately $1.25 billion. Following the offering, Brookfield Asset Management
owns, directly and indirectly, approximately 50.1% of our voting interest. The
proceeds from this offering were used to repay outstanding indebtedness taken on
to finance the company’s $857 million equity investment in its U.S. Office Fund
created to invest in the acquisition of Trizec and the repayment of lines of
credit to ensure the company is in a position to acquire further assets should
opportunities of interest become available."
Interesting , they were borrowing to buy the minimum required equity for the
Trizec company. Then BPO floated $1.3B , of which BAM bought $784M of the equity
offering.
The annual report also indicated, "Our 45% economic interest in the Trizec portfolio was purchased for $857 million, after the assumption of debt and acquisition financing totaling $5.7 billion, and comprises 29 million square feet in New York, Washington, D.C., Houston and Los Angeles."
Does BPO own 73% or 45% of Trizec portfolio?
This was presented to me by a colleague as a possible answer, "I think the way it works is that BPO bought 73% of Trizec, and Blackstone the remaining 27%. Of that 73%, a further 28% was hived off to third party investors, leaving BPO’s ownership interest at 45%."
Brookfield Properties and World Financial Center
The following is a summary of some of the World Financial Center Holdings. These were gathered from the 2006 and the 1Q09 Commercial Debt Listings
| Property | Loan Description | Ownership Interest | Debt owed 12/31/06 | Debt owed 3/31/09 | Maturity Date |
| One World Financial Center | Floating rate, Recourse | 100% | $300M 6.32% | $0 | 2009 |
| Two World Financial Center | 6.91% Fixed, Non- Recourse | 100% | $607M | $370M | 2013 |
| Four World Financial Center | 6.95% Fixed, Non- Recourse | 51% (100% of debt) | $306M | $220M | 2013 |
| Two World Financial Center | Floating Rate, Non- Recourse | 100% | $0 | $114M 10.80% | 2014 |
| One World Financial Center | 5.83% Fixed, Non- Recourse | 100% | $0 | $309M | 2017 |
| Total Direct Ownership | $1,213M | $1,013M |
In 27 months, there was debt reduction of $200M. Merrill fully occupies, Four World Financial Center, and partially occupies Two World Financial Center . BAM claims this debt will self-amortize to zero by year 2013.
BPO refinances $370M of debt
http://brookfieldproperties.com/news/detail.cfm?articleID=197
"TORONTO--(BUSINESS
WIRE)--Jun. 9, 2009--
The financing was completed at a fixed rate of 6.379%, repaying an
existing
Resulting net proceeds to Brookfield are
“This transaction demonstrates Brookfield’s ability to execute on a large
refinancing in a difficult market at an attractive rate,” said
Petro-Canada Centre is a two-tower, 1.73-million-square-foot class “AA”
office complex located in the heart of
Observations:
Looks like this previously was a 3.15% non-recourse loan, that was due 10/09.
Now it looks to be secured for 5 years at 6.379%.
1. Loan appears to be secured. I imagine this loan, like the previous loan
is non-recourse.
2. Interest rate has gone from 6.43% to 6.379%. The prior loan matured
during 2008, and BPO used a bridge loan with LIBOR + 225.
3. No details released on amortization of loan.
4. Appears to be CAD$370M
5. Previously announced by BPO Properties. (Don't confuse with Brookfield
Properties. Brookfield Properties owns 89% of BPO Properties.)
6. Brookfield Properties had debt listed on 3/31/09 filing as, $118, their
interest from US Office Fund. I think they own 45% of the Fund. Just thinking
out loud, and this is some quick analysis, since news was just released, but
total debt would have been $262M (118/.45)? Maybe other debt was some pooled
debt? Maybe CDN to USD conversion?
7. Looks like cash was extracted. I think BPO Properties owns this property, it
will be interesting to see if $$$$ can flow through to BAM. Keep in mind
that BPO Properties is the owner of Petro Canada. Brookfield Properties
owns 89% of BPO Properties. It will be interesting to see if Brookfield
Properties will be able to extract funds from BPO Properties. (search
'BPO' below for previous discussions.)
8. I think JV might be ARCI LTD. I think BPO Properties and ARCI each own 50%. BPO 2008 RAIF mentions, "Petro-Canada Centre consists of a two-tower office-retail complex and underground parking garage. The office towers are 52-story west tower and the 32-story east tower. The property is located in the Calgary Central Business District (“CBD”) and is connected to the above-ground pedestrian walkway system. The property was constructed in 1983 and is one of the top three office complexes in Calgary."
Notes on Brookfield Properties Corp 6-K for 3/31/09 (1Q09)
1. Consider doing a property analysis on all listed properties. Gather LTV's etc.
2. Looking at commercial property debt, there appears to be very little amortization. Looks to be amortizing at around 1% of loan balances per year.
3. Interesting that the REIT election became effective January 2008, yet was announced in 4Q08.
4. Bank Credit Facility of $388M matures on 6/2011, and balance drawn on 3/31/09 is $312M.
5. BAM offers Credit Facility of $300M, which extends to 2010, and balance drawn on 3/31/09 is $48M.
6. Commercial Property Debt which is floating rate is 38%, and was 45% at 12/31/08.
7. Claims to have Indebtedness which is 65% of Book Value. They feel this is conservative, because of Fair Value. If you match this up to earlier Annual Reports, you will notice that Brookfield Properties looks to achieve Debt to Market Cap of less than 50%. Current Debt (not including Preferred Securities, or the $454M development debt, buried in Accounts Payable) is $11,598. Current Market Cap using $8 per share and 391M shares O/S is $3.2B. Hence, Debt / Market Cap is 371%.
8. Page 47 of Interim Report mentions insurance coverage's. Their US Properties have coverage from 'Liberty IC Casualty, LLC. I think that this is a wholly owned entity of BAM. I could be incorrect on that. They used to use another Wholly Owned Entity, 'Realrisk Insurance Corporation.' Realrisk still provides protection for what are hopefully rare events.
9. Derivatives are discussed on page 49. They had a total return swap, under which they receive the returns on a notional number of Brookfield Properties Common Shares of 1,001,665. The Fair Value of the swap was a loss of $8M at March 31, 2009. $2M of losses were recorded as G&A at 3/31/09. A $1 increase or decrease in share price, would result in a $1M gain or loss, and be reported in G&A.
10. Accounts Payable of $1,137M, includes $454M ($434M 12/31/08) of land development debt. This is interesting, as the debt is not included in standard debt ratios.
June 4, 2009 (18.28) Updated Thesis
Brookfield Asset Management
is a diversified conglomerate. Their main areas are Commercial Real Estate,
Hydro Energy, Asset Management and Infrastructure.
Quick Thesis:
High leverage, greater costs of capital, potential if not probably refinancing
issues, Tangible Book Value of $2.2B, > $12B of debt coming due in less than 3
years, and $32B of debt in total, Incestual sales and potentially unusual uses
of related parties, which I think lead to a Quality of earnings and balance
sheet issue, slowdown in most areas of their business (because of leverage I
believe extreme stress is possible), great capex requirements (i.e. South
American Transmission), higher cap rates with commercial real estate. I
believe major assets were bought at historically low cap rates and that we will
never see cap rates like that ever again and potentially aggressive accounting
usage, especially via inter-companies.
We feel that over the years investors have embraced BAM and their efforts,
without really peeling the onion. Interesting to see the value investors who
embraced BAM when we first started looking at it in August of 2007, and how
there are fewer traditional value investors now. Third Ave Value (TAV) is the largest
holder, yet has been reducing their Common Stock position. I think
Brookfield Asset Management was misunderstood by many value investors, including
legendary Whitman and Jensen, from TAV. I think that Whitman let his guard down
with his admiration of Bruce Flatt. I used to speak to
analysts in late 2007, that had no idea that Brookfield Renewable issued
Financial Statements. These analysts took for face value what BAM wrote in their
reports. Yet, if one looked into Brookfield Renewable’s financials (then they
were called Brookfield Power Inc.) one could see a potentially different story.
A few years ago, I spoke with quite a few analysts that had no idea that
Brookfield Power segment filed their own financial statements. I think that BAM
is over-leveraged. They have been extending financings, and have over $12B
coming due in less than 3 years. They have tangible equity of < $2.5B.
Expanded Thesis:
Please not this paragraph was added on December 17, 2009. Upon further research, we were made aware of an error. We thank that person for pointing out the error. A change of control is not triggered merely by a below investment grade rating. I think the correct answer is, if there is a change in ownership, over a specified percentage, and then , and only if the change of control happened, would there be a potential triggering event with a credit downgrade. Hence, if BAM or BRPI were brought below investment grade rating, the respective notes would not be affected in terms, calls, or anything like that. This clearly affects our thesis mentioned below in part of (1.) Please keep in mind, that as of December 17, 2009, our BAM aggregate thesis has not changed with discovery of this error.
(1.) I think they are over leveraged and that increased credit costs, costs of
capital, lower loan to values, could continue to stress BAM. BAM floated
CAD$500M on June 2, 2009. In this market, they were able to secure the funds.
Yet, they are paying 8.95% and the covenants are tighter than they have ever
seen. The debt is 5 year debt. If BAM is downgraded to below investment grade by
3 of the 4 Ratings Agencies, the debt is immediately due. There were also
comments in the note in regards to subsidiary payments. Within the last 30 days,
Brookfield Renewable, BPO Properties and Brookfield Properties, were put on
Outlook Negative by Standard & Poors.
(2.) BAM has quite a few Joint Ventures or minority interests. On projects they
have co-investors. Both Co-Investor and BAM commit capital. I would watch if
JV's start failing to meet capital contribution requirements. I think, but am
not certain, that BAM has commitments promised on various ventures, that are not
showing up as liabilities in their Balance Sheet.
(3.) Incestual sales and potentially unusual uses of related parties. These
include related party sales. Related party fundings, which include potential
below market loans. Related party dividends, which are not necessarily in the
best interest of the entity distributing dividends. Potential use of
subsidiaries as a funding source, which might not be considered arms-length in
nature. Various recent examples of subsidiaries funding include Brascan
Residential in Brazil, Great Lakes Hydro, Brookfield Homes, Norbord, Fraser
Papers, and Canary Wharf. BAM could have a quality of earnings issue, as they
record inter-company gains, without eliminating on the consolidated parent.
These gains include sale of Pingston Hydro and Prince Wind to a conduit owned by
both BAM and consolidated subsidiary, and public Fund, Great Lakes Hydro, gains
on conversion of debentures to common for various companies owned by
Consolidated subsidiary Brookfield Investments Corporation.
Here are some examples of Related Party Usage:
The following is quoted from a SEDAR filing on December 9, 2008 for Brookfield
Investments Corporation.
"On December 3, 2008, the board of directors of the Company approved the sale of
its 15% interest in The Canary Wharf Group plc (“CWG”) to Brookfield Europe LP
in exchange for an approximately 42% limited partnership interest in Brookfield
Europe LP with a fair market value of £333,800,000 and cash proceeds in the
amount of £107,600,000."
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners - Acquiring Public Private Partnerships (PPP)
from Brookfield Multiplex. Purchase price of $20M. I asked if this was discount
from BAM’s original purchase price, but presenter was not sure. Properties
include 2 hospitals. Anticipated close is November / December 2008 (even though
presentation was in December 2008.)
Longview and BIP - Invested in Longview to maintain 30% ownership level. This
further investment of $103M was completed in November 2008.
(4.) Slowdown in Alberta CN real estate. (BPO). I previously had this as
potential. Slowdown in Calgary. On 3/3/09 this was in the news, "Canada's
Economy Shrinks 3.4%" http://online.wsj.com/article/SB12360230...
(5.) High occupancy rates in metro areas deteriorating because of reliance on
financial service industry. Interestingly enough, BPO Properties in recent CC,
claimed "business as usual."
(6.) Previous access to low cost capital with excess cash based on NAV, no
longer available to BAM. Again, they just floated CAD$500M, five year paper at
8.95%. This rate does not appear to be consistent with other S&P A- companies.
Notes were priced at 8.95% for 5 year paper. This is 5 year UST (2.45) +~ 650
BPS. I would think that A- paper would be issued at less of a yield than that.
Something to watch. I checked Egan Jones, and the BAM issue seems to be priced
much higher than other similar credit rating issues. Egan Jones is showing
several A- similar rated and duration issues to be yielding in the mid 5.50%'s.
Here is another issue I pulled up from Finra with similar characteristics. This
bond comes due 6 months prior and has a call provision. Hence, not apples to
apples.
(7.) Industry credit tightness, and BAM's high leverage, could cause stress.
Noting that > $12B comes due on or before 2011. BAM has $32B of total debt.
(8.) Lower values of assets, which were bought at potentially elevated prices,
with concerns that loans that are no longer available to such assets. This
potential lack of credit is not just industry specific, but what I believe to be
company specific. We have read on several occasions, and as recently as June 3,
2009 in the Commercial Real Estate Alert (www.realalert.com ) that NYC CRE is
back to 2004 prices.
Brookfield Properties has $5.6B of debt coming due on a consolidated level in
less than 3 years. Most of this is from Trizec purchase in October 2006, which I
think is now US Office Fund.
On June 3, 2009 Ric Clark,
Brookfield Properties CEO said, "We bought this company probably on a 5 cap
going in when the portfolio was 88 -- and this was our part of the venture, was
88% leased and had a $270 million NOI. As of today, we've raised the NOI by $50
million. The portfolio is -- let's see, it's 93% leased. And we expect that the
NOI will go up meaningfully between now and the time that that debt matures,
just based on in-place leases."
I spoke with an industry
insider in regards to the above quote, and here is what that person mentioned.
"A 5% cap rate, using $270M of NOI, would give a value of $5.4B. They claim
that NOI is now $320M, so that would be a 5.9% cap rate to get what they paid.
It seems like they would be hard-pressed to get 5.9% today. They also had to put
in additional capital to grow the NOI, which is offset by cash flow,
depreciation, etc.
As far as growing the NOI…rents have been up for some time and definitely down
now with maybe further to fall….so I would not be convinced that they can grow
NOI meaningfully without further investigation. Especially with office where
tenants usually don’t fully reimburse LL for operating expenses, real estate
taxes, etc."
Looking at it another way.....
Again, Clark said, "bought this company probably on a 5 cap going in when the
portfolio was 88 -- and this was our part of the venture, was 88% leased and had
a $270 million NOI..."
So, was that full NOI for Trizec, or just Brookfield's portion? If just
Brookfield's, what is the total NOI?
If that was there part of the deal, I think cap rate would compute too much >
than 5%.
Let’s see, I think Brookfield owns 73%, if the $270 was there end, then full NOI
would be $370. That would trail into the historical cost of $7.6B ($7,400 using
5% cap rate).
At $320, the full NOI would be $438. This would be 5.8% cap rate using value of
$7.6B
I am fairly certain that the entire amount is put on consolidated books, and
then minority interests are backed out. The question is, did he mean total NOI,
or BPO's % of the (see 2006 AR 73 %?) of total NOI.
Either way, I think going to be tuff to eventually refinance $5.6B, of which
$3.0B comes due in less than 3 years.
This is heavy stuff.
Trizec and Multiplex are just two items that make up almost $7B
of debt coming due in less than 3 years.
In total on consolidated basis, BAM has over $12B coming due within three years.
Here is what BAM mentioned in their 4Q08 supplemental report in regards to
non-recourse commercial property debt.
"Commercial property financings are secured by high quality office buildings.
Many of the financings which mature in the next three years were arranged a
number of years ago and, accordingly, represent a low loan to value. As a
result, we expect to refinance these maturities in the normal course at the same
or a higher level. Maturities in our North American, European and Brazilian
operations, are extremely low relative to the scale of these operations,
reflecting the long-term nature of the financing. The Australian property market
typically utilizes shorter duration financing, which we are rolling over in the
normal course and seeking to extend on a long-term basis where possible."
From above, not only does BAM expect to be able to refinance, they are expecting
to refinance for the same amount of debt or greater. Yet, as JPM said today, it
is a new ball game for lending. Cap rates, use of lending guidelines , loan to
values have all changed. BAM has alluded long term ownership of assets, when
indeed, they have $7B due before 2011 on assets that at the earliest were
purchased in October of 2006.
If you review BAM and subsidiaries interest coverage ratios they are quite low
and have been decreasing over the last few years. In the recent supplemental
schedule BAM reported Interest Coverages on Operating Cash Flows, not on Net
Income from Operations.
When looking at BAM remember to consider asset sales, debenture conversions and
so forth, as non-recurring as well as being sold in most cases to related
parties.
(9.) Funds that BAM manage are not performing within expectations. These include
Crystal River, Some Hyperion’s, Brascan, Multiplex, Brookfield Properties
(projected) and Brookfield Homes (projected).
Here is an example on Multiplex Funds on 3/2/09
On 3/2/09 MULTIPLEX ACUMEN PROPERTY FUND (MPF) closed at $0.03. This has lost
98% of its value since 12/31/07, and 77% of its value since 12/22/08. MULTIPLEX
ACUMEN PROPERTY FUND (MPF) at 12/31/07 was priced at $1.25. It closed at $0.29
on 10/31/08, $0.20 on 11/24/08 and $0.10 on 12/22/08.
On 3/2/09 MULTIPLEX EUROPEAN PROPERTY FUND (MUE)closed at $0.12. This has lost
87% of its value since 12/31/07, and 30% of its value since 12/22/08.
MULTIPLEX EUROPEAN PROPERTY FUND (MUE)at 12/31/07 was priced at $0.90. It closed
at $0.27 on 10/31/08, $0.20 on 11/24/08 and $0.17 on 12/22/08.
Here are some notes I had on potential debt breaches by a Multiplex fund.
Brookfield’s Multiplex Acumen Fund May Breach Debt Agreements
Dec. 17 (Bloomberg) -- Multiplex Acumen Property Fund, a A$342 million ($238
million) money manager controlled by Brookfield Asset Management Inc.’s
Australian unit, said sliding property values may force it to breach debt
covenants on Dec. 31.
The fund started its yearly review with lenders and would have 90 days to
rectify any breach, Multiplex Acumen said today in a statement to the Australian
stock exchange.
“The deterioration in the asset value of a number of the fund’s underlying
investments, together with a sector-wide reduction in distribution income, is
expected to have a negative impact on the net tangible assets,” Multiplex Acumen
said.
Brookfield, the Toronto-based manager of $90 billion in assets including real
estate, paid A$5.7 billion last year to acquire Multiplex Group. Brookfield last
month said it agreed to refinance $800 million of Australia-related debt.
Credit Suisse, a long time bull on BAM commented the following on 12/17/08.
A. Potential breach of covenants is a minor near-term negative for BAM. CS does
not believe that BAM has significant exposure to the fund.
B. The poor market performance for the related funds presents "significant
restructuring opportunities."
C. Concern over potential cash funding needs for some of the funds and concern
over BAM's ability to raise new money for asset management because of poor
performance.
D. Historically CS claims that BAM does well in these funds. I say, historically
in depressed economic conditions BAM did not have the excess leverage and
pending increases in costs of capital as in the past.
(10.) Previous business conditions with wind at tail no longer exist. Closer eye
on Corporate responsibility.
(11.) It seems as though their IFRS reporting could be potentially aggressive.
They are using discount rates and other DCF techniques. All legal, all subject
to interpretation. I think the discount rates could be raised, which in turn
would bring down asset values. Higher the cap rate, lower the asset value.
Higher the discount rate assumption, lower the asset value.
(12) Use of cash via buy-backs
June 3, 2009 (18.73) Review and Discussion of BAM 8.95% Notes Due June 2, 2014 CAD$500M
Here is a link to the Prospectus Supplement http://rbcpa.com/companies/BAM_8.950_notes_due_2014.pdf
This filing is a supplement to the Short Form Base Shelf Prospectus US$1B, filed on January 12, 2009. Here is a link to that filing http://rbcpa.com/companies/BAM_Short_Form_Prospectus_Filed_20090112.pdf
Cusip 112585AF1,
issued 6/2/09
Not TRACE Reportable and not Disseminated
Canada Issue and currency
Underwriters:
TD SECURITIES INC
SCOTIA CAPITAL INC
BMO NESBITT BURNS INC
CIBC WORLD MARKETS INC
RBC CAPITAL MARKETS INC
NATIONAL BANK FINANCIAL INC
HSBC SECURITIES (CANADA) INC
Proceeds used for general corporate purposes, including repayment of "certain
bank and other indebtedness."
Change of Control Provisions, require 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued interest. The debt would have to be repaid no later than 90 days after a triggering event. The most interesting of the Change of Control Provisions are "Below Investment Grade Rating Event." If 3 of 4 Ratings Agencies rate the notes below Investment Grade, there will be deemed a change of control. If only one Ratings Agency reduces the rating to below Investment Grade, there is no Change of Control. The notes would be put on an "Extension Period" if a number of the Ratings Agencies have placed the notes on "publicly announced consideration for possible downgrade...." and at the same time a number of Ratings Agencies downgraded below investment grade. The Extension Period would terminate when two of the Ratings Agencies or one of the Ratings Agencies have confirmed that the notes are not subject to consideration for a possible downgrade, and have not downgraded the notes, to below an Investment Grade Rating.
| Agency | Current Credit Rating | Minimum Credit Rating Allowed |
| Fitch | BBB+ | BBB- |
| S&P | A- | BBB- |
| Moody's | Baa2 | Baa3 |
| DBRS | A (low) | BBB (low) |
Covenants - could restrict BAM's ability to create certain liens; declare or pay dividends or acquire capital stock or debt of the Company; consolidate or merge, and incur certain payment restrictions that third parties may impose. The covenants will be discussed below, and are crucial to understand for this issue.
Earnings Coverage Ratios - Includes all preferred shares, and is adjusted to a before tax equivalent using an effective tax rate of 28%. Coverage including Series 22 (announced just prior to this filing) on a pro-forma basis was 1.2X on December 31, 2008 and 1.1X on March 31, 2009.
Restricted Payments - Company must maintain a Consolidated Net Worth (GAAP Stockholder's Equity) of > or = to US$2B. This could limit the company from paying dividends, paying distributions or for various other subsidiary payments in kind or cash. This would have to be re-reviewed if such an event were to occur.
Observations:
Please not this paragraph was added on December 17, 2009. Upon further research, we were made aware of an error. We thank that person for pointing out the error. A change of control is not triggered merely by a below investment grade rating. I think the correct answer is, if there is a change in ownership, over a specified percentage, and then , and only if the change of control happened, would there be a potential triggering event with a credit downgrade. Hence, if BAM or BRPI were brought below investment grade rating, the respective notes would not be affected in terms, calls, or anything like that. This clearly affects our thesis mentioned below. Please keep in mind, that as of December 17, 2009, our BAM aggregate thesis has not changed with discovery of this error.
1. Notes were priced at 8.95% for 5 year paper. This is 5 year UST (2.45) +~ 650 BPS. I would think that A- paper would be issued at less of a yield than that. Something to watch. I checked Egan Jones, and the BAM issue seems to be priced much higher than other similar credit rating issues. Egan Jones is showing several A- similar rated and duration issues to be yielding in the mid 5.50%'s. Here is another issue I pulled up from Finra with similar characteristics. This bond comes due 6 months prior and has a call provision. Hence, not apples to apples.
| Issuer Name | Coupon | Maturity | Callable | Moody's | S&P | Fitch | Price | Yield | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D.GC | DOMINION RESOURCES INCORPORATED VA | 6.63 | 12/01/2013 | No | Baa2 | A- | BBB+ | 106.605 | 4.999 |
2. I do not ever recall seeing such strict covenants with BAM in prior offerings. I could be incorrect on that.
3. The Short Form Base Shelf Prospectus filed on January 12, 2009 had no mention of credit rating assurances or events. I only mention this, as this CAD$500M has such Investment Credit Rating requirements. This is the first time, I have seen BAM to be credit rating reliant.
4. Fairly impressive that they were able to raise CAD$500M in
capital. If I am not mistaken, BPO outlook from S&P being negative was post the
recent announcement of $800M + on fundings.
Notes on review of 1Q09 BAM
1. There is no mention of RiskCorp. BAM sold their insurance companies last
year. Now they seem to self insure for billions of dollars, via a wholly owned
insurance company called Riskcorp. Anyone have info on that. I imagine they are
reinsuring elsewhere, as I would be surprised if lenders would allow a type of
self insurance. Here is a quote from Brookfield Renewable's recent
filing, "In the normal course of operations, Riskcorp Inc., an insurance
broker related through common control, entered into transactions with the
Company to provide insurance. These transactions are measured at exchange value.
The total cost incurred in 2008 for these services was $11 million (2007 - $15
million) and is included in operations, maintenance and administration expenses.
For 2008, no amount has been included in revenues for hydrological insurance
claims (2007 - $nil)."
2. In the shareholder letter, BAM discusses unrealistic expectations and the
industry purchasing with cap rates of 3% to 4%. We have casually seen cap
rates allegedly used between 5% to 6.5% for the Trizec purchase. We have
not seen for the Multiplex portfolio. Considering these assets
were bought in 2006 and 2007, we think it is common knowledge, and believed by
many, except the BAM cult and their friendly sell-side analysts, that both of
these mega transactions are priced much less than when they bought these.
As a follow up, On June 3, 2009 Ric Clark,
Brookfield Properties CEO said, "We bought this company probably on a 5 cap
going in when the portfolio was 88 -- and this was our part of the venture, was
88% leased and had a $270 million NOI. As of today, we've raised the NOI by $50
million. The portfolio is -- let's see, it's 93% leased. And we expect that the
NOI will go up meaningfully between now and the time that that debt matures,
just based on in-place leases."
3. On page 10 of the BAM 1Q09, they mention the monetization gain of $29M. One
has to really know the company and history to realize that this was a related
party transaction. When analyzing BAM, it is a good idea to read as
many related party filings as possible. Here is a link to some of those
filings
http://www.rbcpa.com/companies/BAM_Related_party_filings.html
4. In regards to 3 above, I am fairly certain that because of this
"monetization" the historical cost assets were given a stepped up basis on Great
Lakes Hydro, and hence that basis increase flowed to an increase of assets on
BAM's balance sheet. Interesting, as BAM condemns the benefit of historical cost
balance sheets, as they bring in their own version of the Holy Grail with IFRS
reporting. Of course, IFRS is not audited.
5. BAM claims their consolidated debt to equity ratio is 44%. They use the IFRS
numbers at 12/31/08 to come up with that. The true debt/Equity when using the
Balance Sheet is 86.25%. On page 38 of the report, BAM mentions Debt to
Capitalization of 57%, yet they fail to include Preferred Securities of $870M as
debt in the calculation. Also, there is debt included in accounts payable for
land development in progress on Brookfield Properties books of $454M. I haven't
looked to see if it is brought over to BAM. Excluding that of course deflates
the debt to equity ratios. This is discussed in paragraph 2 on page 11.
BAM writes, "The ratios are based on the underlying value of our equity as at
December 31, 2008."
6. On page 14 BAM mentions the consolidated carrying value of North American
properties is $249 per square foot. They mention it is below replacement cost. I
don't know if the carrying value is Book value of Fair Value. I am thinking Book
Value because of the term usage. I think the $249 does not sound so low to me,
in regards to buildings intrinsic value. One could look at each property
listed in Brookfield Properties filings and compute a square footage value,
compare it to comparables via a service and then compute loan to values (LTV)
and possibly cap rates as well. Again on page 14 BAM writes, "The debt
to capitalization based on the underlying values as at December 31, 2008 is
approximately 61%."
7. Total Debt / Net Income for F2008 is an interesting ratio.
Total Debt *(including preferred equity ) 32,570
Net Income 649
50.18 years
If you get rid of the tax benefit in NI of 461, you would have had NI of $188.
The ratio would then be 173 years.
8. "Consolidated assets and net invested capital are largely unchanged from the end of 2008. Borrowings include $121 million of debt, which is guaranteed on a several basis by the obligations of ourselves and our partners to subscribe for capital in the applicable fund equal to the outstanding balance." I listed this just as something to keep an eye on going forward.
9. On page 15 BAM indicates the following: "The underlying values of the consolidated assets and net equity of our commercial portfolio were determined to be $23.9 billion and $7.8 billion, respectively, as at December 31, 2008." They also wrote, "The underlying value of our combined commercial office and retail portfolio represents a 7.2% “going in” capitalization rate based on the 2008 total operating cash flows, excluding gains. The valuations are most sensitive to changes in the discount rate. A 100 basis point change in the discount rate results in a $1.4 billion change in our common equity value after reflecting the interests of minority shareholders."
I used a back of envelope and cap rate formula. (Value = NOI/Cap rate). Numerically this would be V=$31.70 (7.8+23.9), cap rate 7.2% (given) and NOI needs to be calculated. NOI computes to $228.2M. This seems like a high NOI, yet we did not use DCF and other metrics, hence our back of envelope, could be error filled and irrelevant.
10. During the quarter, BAM, via affiliate BIP was awarded a $500M transmission system in the State of Texas. This is something we would like to monitor. They are partnered with Spain's "Isolux Corsan Concesiones."
11. Concert Industries last filed with SEDAR in 2004.
12. On page 25, there was mention of a bridge lending fund which includes a "CAN$67M commitment from Brookfield."
13. On page 35 they wrote, "We generate substantial liquidity within our operations on an ongoing basis through our operating cash flow, which typically exceeds $1.5 billion on an annual basis, as well as from the turnover of assets with shorter investment horizons and periodic monetization of our longer-dated assets through sales, refinancings or co-investor participations. Accordingly, we believe we have the necessary liquidity to manage our financial commitments and to capitalize on opportunities to invest capital at attractive returns. Nevertheless, we are cognizant of the current instability in the capital markets and continue to place a premium on liquidity and allocate capital in a cautious manner." Just something else to watch.
14. On page 37 they wrote, "Commercial property financings are secured by high quality office buildings on an individual or, in certain circumstances, pooled basis. Many of the financings which mature in the next three years were arranged a number of years ago and, accordingly, represent a low loan to value. As a result, we expect to refinance most of these maturities in the normal course at the same or a higher level." We note that for several reasons. One, on May 29, 2009 S&P reduced the outlook on Commercial Properties to negative. We also debate the low loan to value, especially via the billions of dollars coming due on Trizec during 2011. BAM also hints at extracting greater amounts of monies in their refinancing endeavors. The cash- out extraction was common place in the past. Yet, credit issuance was more liquid, BAM's debt levels were not as leveraged, and we believe that extractions will not happen. We are certainly of the mind set that refinancings, if possible will be more costly, greater covenants and would not be surprised to see failed attempts at refinancing. At this point, extensions are occurring, as the lending industry has tabled foreclosures. In 6 months to 2 years time, we expect to see more visibility in this area.
15. On page 38, BAM indicates that Debt to capitalization on a consolidated basis is 57%. We would argue that the number is much higher, as one should include Preferred Stock and Capital Securities in the debt calculation. We would also use Tangible Book Value rather than Stockholder's Equity.
We would also refer to these sections on page 38 for potential further scrutiny, "The Corporation has $1,445 million of committed corporate two-year and three-year revolving term credit facilities which are utilized principally as back-up credit lines to support commercial paper issuance. At March 31, 2009, $676 million of these facilities were drawn or allocated as back-up to outstanding commercial paper, and approximately $98 million (December 31, 2008 – $104 million) of the facilities were utilized for letters of credit issued to support various business initiatives." And, "Subsidiary borrowings have no recourse to the Corporation with only a limited number of exceptions. As at March 31, 2009, subsidiary borrowings included $730 million (December 31, 2008 – $733 million) of financial obligations that are either guaranteed by the Corporation or are issued by direct corporate subsidiaries."
16. On page 40 BAM made what we consider to be an interesting statement. "Preferred equity consists of perpetual preferred shares that represent an attractive form of leverage for common shareholders, and was unchanged during the quarter. The average dividend rate at March 31, 2009 was 4%. Further details on the components of our equity and related distributions can be found on page 45 of this MD&A.
We repurchased 1.5 million common shares during the quarter at an average price
of $12.09 per share representing a meaningful discount to the underlying values
as at December 31, 2008. Common equity also declined as a result of the impact
of lower foreign currency exchange rates on non-U.S. operations."
Why would they state those are "an attractive form of leverage?" Also interesting that they bought back 1.5M shares at $12.09, whereas price as I write this is $18.19. Yet, I find the use of the following words to be speculative in nature, "average price of $12.09 per share representing a meaningful discount to the underlying values as at December 31, 2008."
"Our book value of $5.8 billion reflects the depreciated historical cost of many
assets, such as office properties and hydroelectric facilities, which were
acquired many years ago for values significantly below what they are worth
today." I find it quite interesting that so many of their assets were
purchased post 2004, and there is a good chance that many of those assets have a
fair value at less than historical cost. Two examples could be
Trizec and Multiplex. Again, BAM includes Goodwill as well in their book
value mentions.
16. The Balance sheet includes $464M in Deferred Tax Assets (page 41). We often will reduce this number. BAM does not pay a lot of Corporate Income Tax. Analysts have claimed that is due to heavy depreciation and non-cash charges. We are wary of companies that never pay tax. Perhaps their operations are not as fertile as they claim.
17. The consolidated Balance Sheets have some accounts that should be watched for a quality of earnings issue. These would include Investments ($897M), Accounts Receivable and Other ($7,484M) and Loans and Notes Receivable (2,101M), Restricted Cash ($800M). These were presented on page 42.
18. BAM affirmed on page 43 that Canary Wharf is being reported at Historical Cost. We can not verify that since Canary Wharf was sold to a related party. I do not know if the asset was marked up in a similar fashion that Pingston Power and Prince Wind was, when Sold to Great Lakes (related and consolidated subsidiary).
19. Just to note a mention on page 47, "Our 2008 Annual Report contains a table and description of our contractual obligations, which consist largely of long-term financial obligations, as well as commitments to provide bridge financing, capital subscriptions, and letters of credit and guarantees provided in respect of power sales contracts and reinsurance obligations in the normal course of business."
20. Page 49, we computed that Interest Coverage is 1.22X. This is what we would consider to be an incredibly weak number, especially in light of what is considered to be a decent quarter.
21. In regards to book value, BAM presents an interesting and logical discussion in regards to fully diluted shares on page 50, "In calculating our book value per common share, the cash value of our unexercised options of $549 million as at March 31, 2009 (December 31, 2008 –$446 million) is added to the book value of our common share equity of $4,976 million as at March 31, 2009 (December 31, 2008 – $4,911 million) prior to dividing by the total diluted common shares presented above."
22. On page 51 BAM lists Assets Under Management (AUM). I added up all assets purchased 2003 and after. I also included Core Office North America, Europe and Australia. This totaled $35,602M. There are other items that probably should be included, such as some Power Generation and others. We certainly see that the asset base, using historical cost, has certainly expanded a great deal since 2002.
23. Page 57, just something to note in relation to Stock Based Compensation, "During the three months ended March 31, 2009, the company granted 9.7 million stock options at an average exercise price of $14.10 per share, which was equal to the market price at the close of business on the day prior to the grant date."
May 29, 2009 (17.59) S&P revises outlook on Brookfield Properties and BPO Properties to Negative
Rating has been affirmed. They cite the following:
* Property Valuation declines.
* Stricter lending underwriting. tougher refinancing environment.
* above average leverage and concerns of "ability to meet a large 2011 debt
maturity..."
* BPO Properties also had outlook reduced to negative from stable.
Affirmed for both companies, 'BBB' long-term corporate credit rating and 'BB+' "
preferred stock rating on the companies. The affirmation affects roughly C$900
million of preferred stock and US$110 million of preferred stock issued by
Brookfield, and C$382 million of preferred stock issued by BPP."
*ratings acknowledge long-term leases to high quality tenants, and exposure to
"healthier Canada markets." Yet, they discuss risk of tenant defaults due to
economic downturn.
* "Brookfield is reliant upon asset monetization proceeds and equity issuance to
bolster its liquidity position and reduce overall leverage. The current
environment of weak operating fundamentals, lower office property valuations,
and more-restrictive lender underwriting in the U.S. will pose challenges to the
company's efforts to recapitalize its highly leveraged U.S. property fund (debt
is due in late 2011). We would lower the rating one notch if the company does
not meaningfully improve its liquidity position this year or if fixed-charge
coverage measures were to decline from their current level (1.6x). We would
consider revising the outlook to stable if Brookfield's management successfully
addresses the longer-term recapitalization needs of its U.S. fund while
strengthening overall consolidated fixed-charge coverage measures."
So, now we have 3 subs with credit ratings revisions.
May 15, 2009 (17.18) Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its rating Brookfield Asset Management Inc.
Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its ratings, including its 'A-'
long-term corporate credit rating, on Brookfield Asset Management Inc. The
outlook is stable.
"Standard & Poor's consider the company's ability to generate remitted operating
cash flow from multiple sources as a key strength supporting the ratings," said
Standard & Poor's credit analyst Greg Pau. "The ratings on Brookfield reflect
our expectation of the company's continued adherence to its clearly stated
strategy based on three main principles: owning assets that generate steady cash
flow; managing partially owned funds; and maintaining financial separation and
flexibility among the holding company, subsidiaries, funds, and assets," added
Greg Pau.
"In our view, coverage measures have weakened and we estimate that OCF coverage
of company-level interest payments was 5.8x in 2008 and coverage of
company-level debt was 38%. Despite the deterioration, these measures were still
in line with those in 2006 and, in our opinion, still consistent with the rating
on Brookfield."
"The stable outlook reflects what Standard & Poor's sees as Brookfield's focused
and consistent investment strategy, the strong business fundamentals of its core
portfolio in targeted segments, the steady improvement in cash flow coverage,
and ample financial flexibility. We expect deterioration in cash flow coverages
to be modest in the coming year as steady OCF from core investments should
partially mitigate the decline in that from opportunistic investments."
"To maintain the current rating, we also expect Brookfield to remain committed
to its investment strategy and abstain from providing material support to the
servicing of subsidiary-level nonrecourse debt. We could revise the outlook on
Brookfield to negative if the company deviates from this investment strategy or
in any way materially weakens its company-level cash flow coverage and
liquidity. This could happen if Brookfield's net OCF interest coverage falls
below 4x or if its net OCF debt coverage falls below 25% on a sustained basis."
"As we expect OCF from opportunistic investments to remain subdued in 2009, we
believe that revising the outlook to positive in the near-term is unlikely. In
our view, this could happen if Brookfield reduces its company-level debt,
resulting in material improvement of coverage measures, or significantly reduces
the proportion of OCF from the more volatile investment businesses."
May 14, 2009 (17.58) S&P revised its outlook on Brookfield Renewable Power Inc. (BRP) to negative from stable.
S&P revised its outlook on Brookfield Renewable Power Inc. (BRP) to negative
from stable. At the same time, Standard & Poor's lowered its commercial paper
rating on the company to 'A-3' from 'A-2'. Standard & Poor's also affirmed its
'BBB' long-term corporate credit and senior unsecured debt ratings on the
company. The feel that BRP has "aggressive leverage." Concerned with Interest
Coverage ratios and free cash flow. Concerned with the depth of the balance
sheet, and the ability to withstand sustained lower natural gas prices.
"The negative outlook comes despite better-than-expected financial performance
in 2008 related to very strong hydrology and strong prices for its spot market
exposure. "We are concerned that a return to average generation levels and
continued weakness in the power prices of its key markets could lead to a weaker
financial risk profile," said Standard & Poor's credit analyst Kenton Freitag.
We recognize that BRP's production is highly contracted and that near-term
financial metrics are somewhat immune from short-run price volatility. "However,
a sustained period of low power prices would ultimately expose the company to
lower levels of free cash flow and lower interest coverage levels," Mr. Freitag
added.
"In our view, the ratings on BRP reflect the company's diversified mix of
predominantly hydroelectric generation assets; these assets' excellent
competitive position; and the financial flexibility provided by its strategic
relationship with its corporate parent, Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (BAM;
A-/Stable/--). We believe BRP's exposure to hydrological risk, partial exposure
to wholesale power market risk, and aggressive leverage offset these strengths."
"BRP owns 4,145 megawatts (MW) of total generation capacity. We believe its
generation portfolio is well-diversified, both geographically and by the number
of plants and offtakers. The company's primary focus is low-risk, low-cost,
long-life hydroelectric generating stations, which are spread across several
river systems in Canada, the U.S., and Brazil. It also owns two natural
gas-fired cogeneration plants (215 MW) and a 189 MW wind farm in Ontario."
"The negative outlook reflects our belief that there is little resilience in the
balance sheet to withstand sustained lower natural gas prices (and therefore
lower electricity prices) and average hydrology. We could lower the ratings if
weak power prices in key markets (Ontario and northeast U.S.) are sustained and
lead to a material deterioration in its financial risk profile."
"Conversely, a sustainable rebound in power prices, efforts to contain financial
risk through pursuing a higher proportion of contracted production, or debt
reduction could lead to a stable outlook."
May 12, 2009 (17.79) Review of Brookfield Renewable Power Inc 1Q09 Financials
BRP reported NI of $100M.
Included in that NI was Investment Income and Other of $38M and Derivative Gains of $36M.
Hence adjusted Net Income would be $26M.
BRP also paid a $1.1B dividend to BAM. Stockholder's Equity actually went up to $1,494 from $1,373, even with the paid dividend. This occurred via reducing loan balances owed by BRP to BAM, as well as by an issuance of Preferred Shares to BAM during February 2009. BRP issued 24,705,200 Class A shares in exchange for $1.1B owed to BAM.
Here is a breakdown of Stockholder's Equity:
| Preferred Shares | $2,491 |
| Common Shares | $ 622 |
| Accumulated Deficit | ( 1,550) |
| Contributed Surplus (Stock Options) | 2 |
| Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | ( 71) |
| Shareholder's Equity (as presented) | $1,494 |
We typically remove Preferred Shares from Book Value computation, and consider it a form of debt. BRP appears to have negative common equity.
During the quarter BRP advance BAM $283M. This was done via the Series 5 Note Issuance.
Preferred Shares during the quarter increased by $1.1B.
Company indicated they will spend ~$72m in Capex for remainder of year ($93M in 2008). Looks like they have spent $43M so far, primarily on Brazil construction projects. I do not know if the $72M mentioned above is from 4/1/09 forward, or for all of 2009. Another $53M was placed in escrow at their Louisiana facility. This was classified as "Other Assets" in the Statement of Cash Flows.
Company has Short Term Debt of $600M.
Company has Cash and equivalents of $133M.
Net Loan Receivable from BAM to BRP is $860M ($581 at 12/31/08). I think $629M of that is due upon demand.
Formed a new entity called ‘Great Lakes Power Holding Corporation (“GLPHC)” a subsidiary of Great Lakes Hydro Income Fund. This will still be consolidated into BAM, since BAM owns 50.1% of Great Lakes Hydro.
BAM shows an independent report of why they got a fair price in this document
Transaction is complicated (for me) and I still have to interpret monies coming into BAM (if any) for the sale (Pingston and Prince) as well as the monies going out (if any) for the continued holding of 50.1% of Great Lakes Hydro.
“On February 4, 2009, the Company completed the previously announced sale of a 49.9% interest in a newly formed holding company, Great Lakes Power Holding Corporation (“GLPHC”) to a subsidiary, Great Lakes Hydro Income Fund (“GLHIF” or “the Fund”). GLPHC’s financial position and results of operations will be consolidated by the Fund as GLPHC is a variable interest entity and the Fund is GLPHC’s primary beneficiary. GLPHC now owns the 189 MW Prince Wind farm in Ontario and the 50% joint venture interest in the 45 MW Pingston Hydro station in British Columbia. Consideration for the transaction was CDN$135 million, including a CDN$5 million working capital adjustment. The transaction was financed through the issuance of CDN$65 million of Fund units to the public, as well as subscription by the Company for CDN$65 million of GLPHC shares that are exchangeable into 4,062,500 units of the Fund. Following the close of the sale, the Company owns a 50.01% interest in the Fund on a fully exchanged basis. The transaction also includes a ten year agreement between the Company and the Fund in which any generation in excess of 506 GWh annually from the Prince Wind farm is to the benefit of the Company, however any shortfall of generation in relation to the 506 GWh annually must be compensated to the Fund by the Company. The Company‘s gain of $29 million as a result of the transactions has been recorded as investment and other income in the consolidated statement of income.”
BRP has $600M of short term debt coming due. Some of that was reduced via a debt offering during April 2009. The new debts carry a rate of 8.75%. BRP claims “a portion of this offering was used to retire CDN$105M of Series 1 Canadian Corporate Indentures due in December 2009. The remaining balance of Series 1 Canadian corporate debentures was CDN $345M at 3/31/09. In April 2009, there was another financing of CDN$100M, costing BRP 8.75%. Of that CDN$100M, CDN$65M was used to pay down the CDN$345M mentioned a few sentences above. Balance of these debentures is now CDN$280M. With all that said, I am not sure what the short term Debt balance now is. Perhaps it is CDN$535M, which would reduce by the CDN$65M. I think, but am not certain, that the series 1 facility was CDN$450M. Hence, I guess (and could be wrong) that short term debt is at CDN$430.
Powell River Energy ( a sub of BRP) obtained a bridge facility of CDN$75M. They can only access this facility for refinancing the first mortgage bonds that come due on 7/24/09. Rate is Prime + 200bps or Canada Deposit Offering Rate + 300BPS. Bridge must be used by 7/24/09 or no longer available.
In the MD&A BRP mentioned the following, “Net income for the first quarter of 2009 was $100 million compared to net income of $47 million during the
same period in 2008, an increase of $53 million. The increase in net income is mainly due to unrealized gains on derivatives and a decrease in interest expense on capital securities. These increases were partially offset by higher tax expense associated with the increased net income during the first quarter of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008 and increased expense associated with non-controlling interests.” They did not mention the following:
A. Net Income for 3/31/09 was increased by $29M, due to gain on sale of assets to related party.
B. Net Income for 3/31/09 was increased by $9M, due to “other income.”
C. Tax expense at 3/31/08 was a tax recovery of $19M, an addition to earnings, not a subtraction.
BRP indicates that Operating Cash Flow (OCF) (a non-GAAP measure) was $21.1M. BRP defines OCF as , “revenues from the Company’s power operations, net of operating and maintenance costs, fuel purchases for its cogeneration plants, power purchases, marketing and administration expenses and municipal and other generation taxes on its facilities.”
BRP claims to have over $900M in liquidity. This includes $133M of cash, $142M of Short Term Investments, balances on hand with BAM (629M), undrawn credit facilities ($195m), and “operating assets that have the ability to generate steady operating cash flows.” Not only is this greater than the stated “over $900M,” it is actually $1.1B.
Interest Coverage Ratios for Brookfield Renewable Power
From our website: http://rbcpa.com/favoriteratiosandformulas.html
Times Interest Earned (Interest Coverage Ratio) - This evaluates the ability of
a company to meet required interest payments.
Times Interest Earned = pretax income + total interest expense / total interest
expense.
We like to see interest coverage at > 4 (or 25% on the inverse). We consider 6
(or inverse 16.67%) as a conservative number.
When we look at BRP as of 3/31/09, we arrive at the following. The following agrees with BRP's 3/31/09 Interest Coverage Ratio filing.
| 12 Months | |
| ended 3/31/09 | |
| Net Income | 330 |
| Taxes | 104 |
| Interest Expense (not including capital securities) | 320 |
| Investment Income and Other Income | 56 |
| Derivative Gains (Losses) | 179 |
| Net Income After Taxes and Interest Expense | 754 |
| Coverage Ratio as presented | 2.36 |
If you remove the Investment Income and Derivative Gains, you get the following:
| Coverage Ratio if related party gains, Investment Income | 1.62 |
| and Derivative Gains were eliminated |
Of course 1.62X interest coverage is less healthy than the already low coverage of 2.36X.
Review of Acquisition of Pingston Hydro and Prince Wind to a related entity.
The transaction essentially between Great Lakes Hydro and Brookfield Asset Management involved the sale of 49.9% of Pingston Hydro and 50% of Prince Wind. The sale was done via a conduit called Great Lakes Power Trust.
The independent valuation advisor was Blair Franklin Capital Partners, Inc. http://www.blairfranklin.com
Consideration was CDN$130M, of which CDN$65M was paid in cash, the remainder in shares exchanged so that BRPI owns 50.1% of the fund.
The combined entities have Power Generating Assets of $515,155T.
|
Wind Generation Equipment |
424,414 |
|
Hydro Stations |
90,236 |
|
Vehicles |
19 |
|
Work in Progress |
486 |
|
Total |
515,155 |
The balances of the assets at December 31, 2008 were $348,483 for Prince Wind and $35,362 for Pingston Hydro. This totals 383,845.
The difference between Power Generating Assets at transfer of $515,155 and the Net Book Value at 12/31/08 of $383,845 was $131,310. I will know more after full financials are released, but it looks like the new entity will get a step-up of Book Value. I could be wrong on that.
Interesting that the general Brookfield Theme is that book value understates asset value. Yet, if I am correct, we have the potential via step up of assets stated over historical cost.
One of the Royalty owners is a related JV. Keating and Co. Design and Fabrication Inc. I could not locate a web site.
RiskCorp was paid $35,000 for insurance. Riskcorp is wholly owned by Brookfield Asset Management. I would like to find out if Riskcorp has any regulatory filings. I have not been able to find any. Riskcorp seems to insure a great deal for BAM.
In 2008 Prince Wind had Revenues of $42,852, a net loss of ($5,156) and Unrealized Losses on Derivatives of ($22.870).
Great Lakes Power Holding Corp is 50.1% owned by BRPI and 49.9% owned by Great Lakes Hydro Income Fund. “GLP is an equal participant with ‘Canadian Hydro Developers, Inc.’
Review of Great Lakes Hydro 1Q09
1. Claims to have an extension in place for a one year bridge facility on Powell River Energy bonds which mature in July 2009.
2. Need to ask about the step up of basis for Prince Wind and Pingston purchase.
3. Interest Coverage Ratio is 1.75X. When including Non-Controlling Interest , Coverage ratio becomes 1.78X.
4. Foreign Currency gains of $3,708 and Derivative losses of ($1,713).
The following are questions I would have asked on the Great Lakes Hydro Conference Call. It appears that Brookfield and their subsidiaries have chosen to no longer let me ask questions on their conference calls.
1. BAM bought Prince Wind in November 2006. I think most utilities have lost market value since then. Hence, what was your thinking in paying over 3X book value for Prince Wind and Pingston Hydro?
2. Please comment on the derivative situation at Prince Wind. Prince wind had 2008 Revenues of $43M (2008 was $46M), a net operating loss of ($5.8M) (2008 was ($3.9M). In addition to a continuation of Net losses, Prince wind in 2008 had a Derivative Loss of ($23M). Please explain how that was handled in the valuation and if you have any derivative concerns going forward.
3. You indicated that you have a bridge facility in place for the $75M due on Powell River in July. Yet, Broofield Renewable Power (your parent) indicated that there is a bridge facility of up to $75M, yet if refinancing of $75m Powell River debt can not be refinanced, the bridge facility would expire on July 24, 2009. Has anything changed since the filing of BRPI financials?
4. Are there any specific loan covenants in place, with you or with BRPI, which if failed, would prevent dollars required for Great Lakes Hydro Operating to stop coming in from the parent (BRPI or BAM)?
5. Do you plan on buying other properties from Brookfield Asset Management, Brookfield Renewable Power or any other related companies?
6. Please explain the due diligence you have done on Riskcorp. I think Riskcorp is wholly owned by Brookfield Asset Management. How secure are you that they have the ability to pay major claims? What procedures have you performed to ensure that the related party is a viable source, even if the parent developed cash flow concerns?
Hodge Podge of Notes for BAM
1. Tangible Book Value at F2008 was $2,166. Total Equity is $4.9B At F2007 it was $4,202. Consolidated Debt at F2008 is 30,275M ($30 Billion). At F2007 it was $30,768M. Total Tangible Assets is $50B. Total Assets / Equity is 17.7X. Total Tangible Assets / Tangible Equity is 23.1X. Market Cap is $11B (using $18 per share and 600 common shares o/s. Price to Tangible Book is 5.08X
2. CRE has going in cap rate of 7.2%. I think too low and their calculations I suspect would be on the aggressive side. I would like to see their calculation of "going in." What are occupancy rates, have they assumed rental increases, continuing leases, constant costs?
3. On the other hand, when preparing IFRS, BRP off the cuff, looks like they
used conservative cap and discount rates. Yet, one needs to disect the Power
division, take out one time items, related parties, etc etc and with BAM you
have more than your typical company (at least the ones I have ever followed,
except for Enron.)
4. You have Tricap companies that seem to be bleeding cash, yet I think still
listed as havign Operating Cash Flow.
5. Net Income was $649M, when you remove gain on Norbord debentures (they merely converted) and the tax gain of converting to REIT, you end up with Net Income of $346M.
6. On page 42 of AR, BAM describes how they will deploy capital from new funds. My question is, "what if new capital does not come in?" Several analysts have been concerned with the lack of third party announcements.
7. Page 42 also discusses a deleveraging process at BAM. Paying down debts etc. Yet, on page 45 they indicate that they expect to extract cash from refinancings. All through the leveraged balance sheet build, BAM was able to extract cash. What happens when and if it stops?
8. Coverage ratios and debt ratios as reported seem low. BAM uses deconsolidated reporting for all but Brookfield Properties. I think this distorts things. You can run the ratios as they did on a deconsolidated basis. Also run like they did on an IFRS basis. But, also, very important to run it on the as presented GAAP financials.
9. I ask myself, why did BAM spend 3.3% on transaction costs for their $150M
offering. That sounds like a lot to pay for a company with such allegedly strong
liquidity. Yet, they do only pay 5%. So, just a question and something to
document.
10. There are letter of credit committments in excess of $1B not on liability
section of balance sheet. This is GAAP and acceptable, but all should know that
BAM has contractually committed to over $1B of LOC's that are not (yet) showing
as liabilities on balance sheet. I imagine that if BAM was asked or told to
commit funds, that stress could be felt.
11. Around 50% of Flatt's options are under-water.
12. What is free cash flow? Is there free cash flow? What would cash flow
be if BAM was not able to sell assets to related parties.
13. Bonds are still acting weak, and not pricing as to the current credit ratings that BAM holds. BAM has over $14B coming due in less than 3 years. BAM is generous with options to officers and directors IMO.
14. There has not been a single CMBS issuance reported since July 1, 2007 through 3/31/08. This has been attributed to increased credit tightness (see my BAM thesis), deterioration in commercial real estate (see my BAM thesis), decreased rents, increased vacancies, decreased property values, increased cap rates and requirement to be more conservative in calculation of cap rates. Delinquencies will start to rise, especially when extensions are due. I think properties with claim to lower stated LTV will be susceptible, as a lender would rather take that back, than one of a mortgage that is under-water. Yet, industry insiders have felt that lower loan to values will have greater refinancings, citing the lenders having more comfort with the collateral. All that said, there are expectations that market will open up again, just with wider spreads, greater restrictions, recourses, etc. CRE CMBS delinquencies are increasing. I read a report that showed delinquencies rose from 0.40% in 3Q08 to 1.12% in 1Q09. Later vintage loans are also experiencing unexpectedly higher default rates. These were allegedly issued with greater standards, and hence the surprise of default rate. Interest Only loans have almost disappeared (I think this will obviously affect BAM cash flow).
15. Bruce Flatt's 2007 compensation (including options) , Brookfield Asset Management Inc. $27,164,707.
16. In a recent BusinessWeek interview, Sam Zell said the following in regards to Commercial Real Estate. "We all drank too much Kool-Aid. Between 2003 and 2007, 50% of all commercial real estate traded. It ended up being over-leveraged. All cash buyers like Calpers played the leverage game instead of buying for cash. Very few who bought from 2003 to 2007 are above water. You can call it credit crunch, seller’s strike, buyer’s strike, either way you have more debt than you have value. We won’t see new equity players until the banks foreclose. It’s going to be a couple to three years before the ownership structure changes. Prices are down 25% to 30% on what’s sold. The reality is there ain’t much trading. One of the great lessons of Confucius is bankruptcy courts don’t respect maturities. That’s your General Growth (Properties) story. Sales occur when there are prospects. Tell me where the prospects are? I’m happy to buy a hotel when you can tell me the President will stop pissing on conventions. If owners have no equity, owners have no incentive to do anything. Who’s going to put up tenant improvement money? Publicly held REITs have gone down 65%, arguably too far. That’s real daily pricing. You have a lot of loans at floating rate, you don’t miss payments at 1-2%.”
17. DBRS reduces credit rating on Norbord. "DBRS has today assigned an Issuer Rating to Norbord Inc. (Norbord or the Company) of BB with a Negative trend, meaning that our opinion on the default rating of Norbord has declined from BB (high) to BB." "The lower default rating reflects the negative impact of depressed oriented strandboard (OSB) markets on Norbord’s financial structure and a longer-than-expected time frame for the Company to significantly repair its financial profile. In addition, Norbord’s financial profile is no longer appropriate for a higher rating, following weak Q1 2009 financial performance and continued high leverage." "The current rating is supported by the implied support of Brookfield Asset Management Inc. as evidenced by the successful execution of the standby purchase agreement in connection with the recent rights offering."
Here is what I would have liked to ask, had I been selected to participate in the BPO Properties conference call.
You mentioned that
you are not buying back shares to preserve cash. Very understandable. You
mentioned that you are looking at ways to combat the future tax that will be
generated from BPO Properties profits. I imagine your desire to preserve cash
would include the $218M of debt coming due within the next 9 months. The $218M
coming due includes Petro Canada 3.15% loan, which you claim to be in gear to
refinance. Of course, the refinanced loan, which you claim to be for a 5 year
period will be at less preferential rate than the current 3.15%.
Based on the above, my question is two-fold.
1. You stated that the loan will be via a corporate issue. Will the loan remain
as a non-recourse loan? Will it be for the full $150M? Will you be able to
extract cash from it? If you extract cash, will you use it for opportunities, or
will you pay it out as a dividend? If a dividend, do you have any concerns that
Brookfield Properties owns 89% of your company and would be the recipient of
most dividends you pay?
2. As you are looking to preserve cash, why would you pay out an extra dividend
of $140M? Was this because your parent Brookfield Properties would have better
use of the money than you would? If so, aren't your fiduciary interests focused
solely on BPO Properties and not a parent? If you recall, you were previously
loaning money to Brookfield Properties at rates well below what they would have
received from non-related parties, as well as the dividend paid last year by you
to Brookfield Properties of $250M.
It seems like any extra funds could be used to purchase assets from distressed
sellers, as opposed to paying out a total of $390M in dividends to your
shareholders of which $347M went to your parent (Brookfield Properties). If I am
not mistaken, that $390M paid was all done within the last 15 months.
Heck, you only had Net Income of $81M during the last 5 quarters, yet you
declare dividends of $390M? As a matter of fact, you had net income for the year
ended 2008 of $65.5M and $138.8M in 2007. So, you have had total net income of
$204M in the last two fiscal years, and you pay out $390M in dividends.
Purchasing assets would generate depreciation, which WOULD benefit any desire to
combat taxes. As you know, depreciation is a non-cash charge.
I'm not at all insinuating you should be buying assets. I'm just thinking that
there is way better use of that money than to pay a dividend, of which a claim
that "shareholders benefit" would sound funny. Since the 89% shareholder is the
parent (Brookfield Properties). It just seems different if it were an
independent 89% shareholder. If full independence, would that dividend be paid?
I just think that all allegiances and fiduciary duties belong to BPO Properties,
and none other.
3. In light of preserving cash, and dealing with a future tax situation, are
Dividends in Canada tax deductible? In USA corporate dividends are not tax
deductible, yet they are includible as income for the recipient.
***************************************************** *******
Truth of the matter is, putting aside parental pressures on BPO Properties, this
is the best of the organizations that I have come across within the BAM
organization. Debt levels are fine. Assets look great. Implied cap rates
incredibly attractive, true cash generator. Yet, if a parent drains a company
that is public and certainly has a fiduciary responsibility to all shareholders,
then I would have a concern.
Tom Farley is very well respected. He is President & CEO of BPO Properties and
President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Commercial Operations of
Brookfield Properties (which is an 89% shareholder of BPO Properties).
I didn't
realize that Moody's issued a rating on BPO Properties. I searched and couldn't
find that. Perhaps I misinterpretted the statement.
In the CC, Tom Farley said, "we have a rating from Moody's that you would see
that Moody's has announced
that they've underwritten it at CAD370 million. So we're expecting to get that
amount." "That's just the full amount. So our half of that would be CAD185
million and our half of the existing bridge is CAD150 million.
So, so when we're successful, that would mean incremental CAD35 million."
I was able to find a $52.5M loan to Exchange Tower Ltd(this is a subsidiary of
BPO Properties Inc). That loan was issued 9/8/08, comes due in 2011.
I guess this is their CRE in Thailand?
http://www.property-report.com/thailand-property-magazine.php?id=1549&date=0808
Farley of BPO (et al) recently discussed.....
1. Brookfield claims to be constitutionally conservative in the way they e manage their business. They claim to rarely take debt that is greater than 60% loan to value. They claim to be focused on preserving capital. This is based on a 96% USA occupancy rate, and 99% in CN.
2. Thinks that TD Canada Trust Tower would now trade at a cap rate below 5% and $723 SF (not sure if he was talking CDN or USD.) This was considered "too rich" by Cadillac Fairview Corp. Kimco thought cap rates will accelerate quickly in Canada. Kimco thinks some caprates have already reached 8 in Canada.
3. Thinks macro-deleveraging process will last longer than April 2010.
Back of Envelope Brookfield Properties Valuation:
Back of envelope BPO valuation:
NOI estimated rbcpa $1,200
Value via 10% cap rate $12,000
value via 8% cap rate $15,000
Cash $ 315
Debt $11,598
Capital Securities and preferred equity $2,177.
Enterprise Value at 10% cap rate (not reducing for $2,177 above) is $717M.
Enterprise Value at 8% cap rate (not reducing for $2,177 above) is $3,717M
Shares outstanding 407,153,160 (note for eps, weighted average of 391M shares
used. That will hit eps going forward.)
Market Cap using $7.47 per share (closing 4/30/09) is $3.04B
Market Cap using $8.22 per share (closing 3/31/09) is $3.35B
Of course above is vague and incomplete. One must fully analyse intercompany
transactions, debt conditions, debt status and rates, debt extensions, status of
developments (including Reston Crescent), leasing assumptions, rental per square
foot and covenants, and other items, which may become available with eventual
quarterly filings (10-Q equivalent).
BAM has assigned a value of $7,798M on Commercial
Properties. BAM did this via their "IFRS" methods.
Market cap for entire interest of Brookfield Properties is $3.1B (share price
$7.55). Granted , IFRS may have Multiplex and Canary Wharf included in the
$7.8B. Yet, Brookfield Properties also has a percentage of residential value in
their valuation.
Remember, BAM owns 51% of Brookfield Properties.
Hence, they value at $7.8B, whereas half the market value of Brookfield
Properties is $1.55B.
One could argue that true enterprise value of Brookfield Properties is zero
based on a 10% cap rate and including Capital Securities and preferred equity of
$2,177.
The following are questions I would have asked on the Brookfield Properties 1Q09 Conference Call. It appears that Brookfield and their subsidiaries have chosen to no longer let me ask questions on their conference calls.
To bad critics are not allowed to ask questions. Easier to deal with the sheep
of Wall Street. Yet, best questions I have heard in a long time. Analysts are
not as lovey dovey as they used to be on the calls. It seems like
the chronie wall streeters and chummy buddies in Toronto Finance district do not
want to ask the difficult questions. Maybe they are concerned about their
investment banking profits.
1. In discussing their IFRS valuation methods, BAM mentioned a going in cap rate
of 7.2%. Would you elaborate on your calculation of "going in." What are the
primary assumptions of cap rate, including occupancy rates, have they assumed
rental increases, continuing leases, constant costs?
Tom recently mentioned, Thinks that TD Canada Trust Tower would now trade at a
cap rate below 5% and $723 SF (not sure if he was talking CDN or USD.) This was
considered "too rich" by Cadillac Fairview Corp. Kimco thought cap rates will
accelerate quickly in Canada. Kimco thinks some cap rates have already reached 8
in Canada.
What do you expect Class A cap rates to level at. It seems like a cap rate less
than 5% is optimistic?
2. Would you please identify loan balances and related party activities with BAM
and any subsidiaries?
3. What is status of 2 Reston Crescent? Is more development slated for that
area? I thought I noticed increased square footage potential in the supplemental
filing today.
4. What are your expectations on refinancing in general? Do you envision greater
monies down? What rates are you seeing? covenant requirements? You have been
focusing on loans that are back ended with heavier payment requirements. Have
you modeled the lack of that being available going forward in your cash flow
projections. Also, have you included the requirement of more money down, as well
as the probable inability to extract cash from refinancings as you had in the
past?
5. Any derivative gains or losses?
6. Any gains or losses via intercompany or related party transactions.
7. Any expectations of rights offerings or any type of equity dilution in ways
to raise cash?
Quick Thoughts on BAM earning release 1Q09
1. I think that many of the entities insure via an insurance company owned by BAM. Anyone know if there are regulatory filings for that company. What kind of capital does it have, if claims were made?
2. BAM mentioned they are under review by ratings agencies. Should be
interesting.
3. Looks like third party asset generation is difficult. No surprise, as that is
the case for most of the Asset Management Industry.
4. BAM admitted that cash extractions via refinancings are not likely to occur.
5. BAM mentioned borrowing sweet spot is < $100M.
6. It will be interesting to see derivative gains/losses in regulatory filing.
7. In regards to the shareholder letter.
A very good letter. Not surprising at all.
In the CRE section, Flatt mentioned that BAM has already lived through a worse
real estate market. Which market was that? Most of the long time CRE companies
claim this is the worst market they have seen since the depression.
Flatt cited 9/11/01 and the challenges. And it was. Yet, CRE has since boomed
big time and now has propably started a bust cycle.
Flatt discussed "non-recourse long-term financing." He discussed securing
investment grade debt at 60% to 70% loan to value and that over time the ratio
gets less because of increasing rents, amortization and value appreciation. I am
under the impression that much of BAM's CRE debt is interest only or with minor
principal amortizations. We are also in a period of price devaluation.
It will be interesting to see how Trizec and Multiplex play out, as they were
bought when typical CRE was priced at the top of the market.
Flatt expressed "Concern #5 - Financing." He explained how the problems of CRE
are caused by refinancing issues. He feels those who put "far too much leverage
on their assets" to be the ones with issues, as those who have "prudent amounts
of financing."
Once again, why wouldn't Trizec and Multiplex be included in that problem area?
BAM bond update on May 4, 2009
BAM is currently rated S&P A-
Due Date*******Current Yield
3/2010********* 9.5%
6/2012*********11.0%
4/2017*********12.4%
3/2033*********11.8%
I looked at a list of available A/A- rated bonds and here are the results.
I have stated here, that I believe BAM bonds are not priced as though they are
A- rated. Perhaps this is indicating a downgrade on the way, or perhaps it is
mispricing. TAV believes mispricing. I suspect ratings pressure.
Due in 3/2010 or earlier as follows:
Chrysler 6.5%
All others less than 6.5%
BAM clearly showing stress at 9.5%
Due in 6/2012 or earlier as follows:
HSBC Bank, MBNA and Prudential, yielding b/w 6.3 - 9.9%.
BAM maybe showing stress at 11%
Due in 4/2017 or earlier as follows:
Morgan Stanley at 7%, Goldman at 6.4%, most others under 10%
BAM clearly showing stress at 12.4%
Due in 3/2033 or earlier as follows:
Citi, Allstate, Dominion Resources, Science Applications yielding b/w 7.4 and
10%
BAM maybe showing stress at 12.8%
May 5, 2009 Noticed that the 2012's had pricing stress
today. The 2017's dropped only slightly.
BAM is currently rated S&P A-
Due Date*******Current Yield
3/2010********* 9.5%
6/2012*********13.5%
4/2017*********12.6%
3/2033*********11.8%
It will be very interesting to see the ratings agencies discussions soon.
1. BNN.GF cusip 10549PAE1 Maturity June 2012. Coupon 7.125%.
Traded 4/30/09 6MM+ shares, last sale 90.00 to yield 11.001%.
Traded 3/4/09 6MM+ shares, last sale 81.00 to yield 14.636%.
Traded 2/27/09 3.66MM shares, last trade 81.25 to yield 14.495%.
Traded 1/7/09 Over 10MM shares, last trade 67.75 to yield 20.73%.
Traded 12/30/08 2.5M shares at $60 to yield 25.101%.
This bond traded in October 2008 at 74 yielding 10.51%, July 2008 at 99.512
yielding 7.268%, in May 2008 at 103.7 with a yield of 6.086%.
2. BAM.GA Description: BROOKFIELD ASSET MANAGEMENT INC Coupon Rate: 5.800
Maturity Date: 04/25/2017.
Traded 4/21/09 <1MM shares, last sale 66.95 to yield 12.4375%.
Traded 3/3 /09 5MM shares, last sale 67.375 to yield 12.241%.
Traded 2/27 /09 3.9MM+ shares, last trade 65.875 to yield 12.624%.
Traded 1/6/09 3MM shares, last trade 40.75 to yield 21.31%.
Traded on 12/30/08 1.2M shares at $40, yielding 21.66%.
Traded on 10/30/08 65,000 shares at $74, yielding 10.505%. Last trade before
that, I forget the date was 87.17.
3. Issue: BNN.GH 10549PAF8 Description: BRASCAN CORPORATION Coupon Rate:
5.750 Maturity Date: 03/01/2010
Traded 4/06/09 < 1M shares, last sale 96.875 to yield 9.462%.
Traded 1/20 /09 5MM+ shares, last sale 89.00 to yield 17.06%.
These bonds are due to mature in 14 months. They last traded until today in May
of 2008 then were yielding 5.6%.
Traded 12/10/07 5MM+ shares, last sale 102.43 to yield 4.58%.
4. Issue: BNN.GG cusip 10549PAG6 Description: BRASCAN CORPORATION Coupon
Rate: 7.375 Maturity Date: 03/01/2033
Traded 4/24/09 410K shares, last sale 64.75 to yield 11.830%.
Traded 2/27 /09 5MM+ shares, last sale 60.00 to yield 12.752%.
Traded on 2/28/08 150K shares at $90.79, yielding 8.249%.
Traded on 11/6/07 100K shares at $102.566, yielding 7.152%.
March 31, 2009 (13.77) Brookfield Properties Review of 2008 Annual Report
1. Owns 28M SF interest of US
CRE. Side note, JPM owns 13M of CRE.
2. Liquidity consists of $157M in Cash and $388M (subsequent to year end) of
un-drawn capacity. This totals to $545M, yet we do not know current cash
balance.
3. Cost of capital based on 12% ROE was 5.30%. This was 7.19% in F2007.
4. Reduction of future tax expense of $498M. This increased earnings.
Interesting, US operations went REIT. Why would a company forfeit future NOL's
to become a REIT. I need to look further into that. I am fairly certain that
NOL's become frozen when REIT become effective.
5. $24M foreign exchange gain on BPO dividend. If you recall the BPO dividend to
Brookfield Properties really lacked a business purpose for BPO Properties.
Similar to the low cost financing that BPO Properties previously extended to
Brookfield Properties Inc.
6. Received $23M of fees from Brookfield Residential and Brookfield LePage
Johnson Controls. This was $20M in F2007 and $16M in F2006.
7. Gain of $27M in sale of Gulf Canada Square.
8. Gain of $164M on sale of TD Canada Trust Tower Toronto to Omers.
9. 45% of the Commercial Property Debt outstanding is floating rate debt. This
was 39% in F2007.
10. Claims Current indebtedness is 64% of Book Value.
11. Seems to insure under a wholly owned entity formed in October 2008 called,
"Liberty IC Casualty, LLC." Liberty provides $2.5B of TRIA coverage (terrorism).
12. Blackstone has a put option commencing in 2011 in Trizec. Entity is called "TRZ
Holdings LLC." In 2013 , if Blackstone does not exercise option, Brookfield has
option to Call Blackstone's interest.
13. US Office Fund (12 above as well) has an institutional investor. Certain of
the contributions by this investor are in the form of an unsecured debenture.
This year the change in future estimated cash flows of this obligation, included
a gain of $38M (nil in F2007.)
14. Related Party Insurance Expense was $1M.
15. Common Shareholder Equity is $3,382M, in F2007 was $3,033.
16. OCF is $459M. I would consider reducing the OCF by $394M of development and
redevelopment ($332 construction and $62 Interest Expense) and by $106M of
Tenant Improvements and $77M of Capex. This would lead to FCF (negative) of
($118M).
17. Claims BPO Properties operations are self sustaining.
18. 94% of Commercial Debt is non-recourse. Weighted Average interest rate is
5.07% (6.65% in F2007). Total commercial property debt is $10.24 Billion.
19. Land Development debt is $434M (residential) and secured by underlying
properties. $379M comes due in 2009.
20. 9,793,216 option shares outstanding with weighted average price of $16.29.
1,054,590 DSU's are outstanding. These can not be converted to cash until
cessation of employment.
21. Merrill rental revenue was 11% of total US Revenues.
22. Guarantees via LOC's of $99M. Not reflected in financials. $6M of guarantees
tied to performance and milestones issued to municipality of Denver.
23. Contingently liable for obligations of Joint Ventures in residential
development of
$12M ($8M in F2007).
24. Commercial Property debt are typically structured at 55% to 65% LTV (when
market permits.) Claims that current debt at 64% of Book Value is within its
target. Book Value is $8.80 per share.
25. Covenants include a "total and secured leverage ratio", an "interest and
fixed charge ratio", a "fixed charge ratio" and a "recourse debt requirement."
Company claims to be in compliance with all covenants at 12/31/08 and claims
there is a quarterly review. Company does not disclose covenant requirements.
26. Company has following debt levels. The following does NOT include
discontinued operations.
Commercial Property debt $11,505
Residential Development 434
Capital Securities - Corporate 882
Capital Securities - fund subs 240
Total $13,061
Of the $13,061, $6,680,000,000 comes due in less than 3 years (2011).
27. Company appears to carry derivatives with Notional amount of $4B. This is
also tied into common shares of 1,001,665. These shares are part of a total
return swap. A $1 gain or loss in share price results in a $1M gain or loss.
Hence there is Equity Price Risk. This would be reflected in company's G&A. I
think derivatives are too opaque and will leave it at that.
28. No money drawn on $300M credit facility from BAM.
29. Cash Taxes paid were $18M in F2008 and $35M in F2007. Cash interest paid was
$762M (not including dividends on capital securities.)
30. Average occupancy % if 94.9%, 95.6% in F2007.
Commercial Real Estate Notes
The following is an excellent CRE presentation
by DB and some quotes that were pertinent to me.
http://online.wsj.com/documents/CREOutlook20090325.pdf
"Price declines of 35-45% (or more) expected,
exceeding those of early 1990s"
"Rent declines and vacancy rates may approach those of the early 1990s"
"Conduit collateral performance deteriorating at historically fast pace"
"Large percentage of CMBS loans made in 2005-2008 will not qualify for
refinancing without substantial equity injections"
"Aggregate delinquency rate ready to surpass the peak of the previous
recession"
"Since October, monthly delinquency rate increases have accelerated sharply to
the 17-25bp range, a pace of deterioration that is without precedence"
"Deterioration far more severe in 2006, 2007 and 2008 vintages"
"Historically, larger loans exhibited performance that was far superior to
that of smaller loans. This is unlikely to be the case going forward, as
underwriting weakened most for larger loans"
"Given the deterioration in employment rates in general, and office employment
rates in particular, we expect office to be one of the hardest hit property
segments. At 103bp, total office delinquency rates remain low."
"Many of the riskiest pro forma loans from 2005-2007 were structured as 5Y IO
loans"
"Declining property prices pose a significant threat to loans needing to
refinance over the next decade. CRE prices peaked in October 2007 after
appreciating of 30% since 2005 and 90% from 2001."
"The 1540 Broadway experience… Represents almost 63% price decline over past
24 months"
We have written extensively about 1540 Broadway See March 12, 2009
below
"Required ROE for levered CRE investors suggests
price declines of 45% or more"
see excellent tables on pdf pages 31, 40 and 49
http://online.wsj.com/documents/CREOutlook20090325.pdf
"Cap rates increasing to 7% imply a 14% price decline, increasing to 8% a
25% price decline, increasing to 9% a 33% decline and increasing to 10% a 40%
decline. We expect price declines of 35-45%, and possibly more."
"The number of conduit loans passing their maturity date without refinancing
is growing rapidly"
"For loans maturing through 2012, even lenient underwriting requirements imply
the majority (56.8%) of loans will not qualify. Out of $154.5 billion of
maturing loans, $87.7 billion do not qualify. Office and multifamily are most
severely impacted segments."
"In our view, much of these losses are unavoidable, even in a mass extension
environment."
"Some argue that CRE markets are likely recover quickly as the economy begins
to recover, which will resolve much of the refinancing problem. We disagree –
even if rents and vacancy rates improve, the vast majority of the price
declines reflected changes in underwriting regimes, not depressed cash flows."
Brookfield Renewable Power - back of envelope continued
I was trying to find a price
to cash flow metric. Very difficult to do, as there are items that to me are not
real clear.
There are two items in the statement of cash flows, that could lead to potential
accounting aggressiveness. One item is Non-Controlling interests. There is so
much fluctuation, year to year, that perhaps it is best to ignore when working
with cash flow reconstruction for the future. There is also potential confusion
and cash flow issues with inter-company fundings and frequent related party
transactions that occur throughout the BAM organization.
Add back of taxes should be noted. Okay to add back for cash flow adjustments.
One must be cognizant that taxes are future taxes, and that BRP is incurring
less taxable income than reported income. There are many reasons this could
occur. BRP paid $13m of taxes in 2008. I don't know if there are statutory
Revenue tax or if they are reporting some taxable net income. I can't tell by
the wording in financials on note 21, if there is an equivalent of a net
operating loss carryforward in Canada.
Other line items on the statement of cash flows that I have ignored for now are
"other" of $38M and "Net change in Working Capital" for $55M. I have ignored
these, for now, because of the potential of aggressiveness within intercompany
and related party usage.
Here is a back of envelope reconstruction of cash flows. My example does not
include any debt repayment, principal reduction or dividends. Any and all of the
above would reduce free cash flow.
Net Income 277
Add or (deduct)
Depreciation 169
Derivative Gain (96)
Future Taxes 40
Cash flow from ops 390
capital expenditures (148)
Free Cash flow 242M
Various multiples for valuation based on FCF adjusted
5X = $1.2B
10X = $2.42B
15X = $3.63B
One could add back the "non-controlling interests", "other" and "Net Change in
WC" for an additional $170M in Cash flow. If that were done Adjusted Valuation
would be FCF of $412M:
5X = $2.1B
10X = $4.1B
15X = $6.2B
Yet, if one were to add back those items, then they should also consider
subtracting debt repayments. Again, I would refrain from that, or I would go
with a lesser multiple due to potential "related party manipulation risk".
Of course you need to determine if 2009 is going to be better NI and CF than
banner year 2008. Keeping in mind that 2009 will not include full operations
(only consolidated) of Pingston, South American Transmission and Prince Wind.
At this point, for my purposes, I feel comfortable with a valuation of $2 - $4B
for BRP. Potentially even less than $2B.
I think that BAM has placed an interim valuation of Renewable at $6.5B via their
supplemental information (as originally reported).
Debate welcome. This is back of envelope, BAM has not yet released financials
for 2008, hence margin of error and interpretation is greater than if all was
filed.
As always, watch the debt and the credit agencies.
Items noted from Brookfield Renewable Power Annual Information Form
"In early 2009, Brookfield
Renewable declared and paid a special one-time dividend to its common
shareholder in the amount of $1,100 million. This dividend was applied by
Brookfield Asset Management to reduce its outstanding indebtedness with the
Company. For further information, please see “Dividend Policy”.
Also in early 2009, the Company issued 54,669,200 additional Class A Preference
Shares in exchange for a reduction of $1,100 million of two promissory notes
totaling $1,210 million outstanding to Brookfield Asset Management."
"The authorized capital of Brookfield Renewable consists of an unlimited number
of Class A Preference Shares and an unlimited number of Common Shares. On
December 31, 2008, there were 2,488,278 Common Shares and 57,077,111.87 Class A
Preference Shares issued and outstanding. On February 25, 2009, Brookfield
Renewable paid a portion of its outstanding promissory notes in Class A
Preference Shares by issuing an additional 54,669,200 Class A Preference Shares
to Brookfield Asset Management, bringing the total number of Class A Preference
Shares outstanding as of that date to be 111,746,311.87. See “Capital
Structure – Promissory Notes” for further details."
"On February 24, 2009, the Company authorized the payment through the issuance
of Class A Preference Shares of one of the promissory notes in full and a
portion of the other promissory note. The payment aggregated $1,100 million and
was paid through the issuance of 54,669,200 Class A Preference Shares calculated
at an issue price of Cdn$25 per Class A Preference Share. While the promissory
notes specified that payment could be made in Common Shares, both the Company
and Brookfield Asset Management agreed to payment in Class A Preference Shares
in substitution therefor. The payment of the $1,100 million in Class A
Preference Shares to Brookfield Asset Management on February 25, 2009 reduced
our intercompany debt with Brookfield Asset Management to $110 million on the
remaining promissory note."
March 13, 2009 (13.77) Brookfield Renewable Power
| 4Q08 | Millions | |
| Net Income | $277 | |
| Subtract: Derivative Gain | ($96) | |
| Add: Interest On Capital Securities | $31 | |
| Adjusted Net Income | $212 | |
| Valuations using various multiples: | ||
| 10 | $2,120 | |
| 12 | $2,544 | |
| 15 | $3,180 | |
| Book Value | ||
| Shareholder's Equity | $1,373 | |
| Valuations using various multiples: | ||
| 1.0 | $1,373 | |
| 1.5 | $2,060 | |
| 2.0 | $2,746 |
| 3 months | 3 months | 3 months | 3 months | |||||||
| YE 2008 | % of Revs | 12/31/2008 | % of Revs | 9/30/2008 | % of Revs | 6/30/2008 | % of Revs | 3/31/2008 | % of Revs | |
| Revenues | 1184 | 100.00% | 238 | 100.00% | 289 | 100.00% | 336 | 100.00% | 321 | 100.00% |
| Operating Expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization) | ||||||||||
| Operations, Maintenance and Administration | 226 | 19.09% | 68 | 28.57% | 57 | 19.72% | 52 | 15.48% | 49 | 15.26% |
| Fuel and Power Purchases | 78 | 6.59% | 11 | 4.62% | 23 | 7.96% | 25 | 7.44% | 19 | 5.92% |
| Property, Capital and other Generation Taxes | 73 | 6.17% | 11 | 4.62% | 24 | 8.30% | 22 | 6.55% | 16 | 4.98% |
| Operating Expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 377 | 31.84% | 90 | 37.82% | 104 | 35.99% | 99 | 29.46% | 84 | 26.17% |
| Net Operating Income (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 807 | 68.16% | 148 | 62.18% | 185 | 64.01% | 237 | 70.54% | 237 | 73.83% |
| Investment and Other Income | 20 | 1.69% | 10 | 4.20% | 11 | 3.81% | -3 | -0.89% | 2 | 0.62% |
| Unrealized Derivative Gain (loss) | 96 | 8.11% | 46 | 19.33% | 136 | 47.06% | -39 | -11.61% | -47 | -14.64% |
| Net Income before Interest, Depreciation, Taxes and Non-Controlling Interests | 923 | 77.96% | 204 | 85.71% | 332 | 114.88% | 195 | 58.04% | 192 | 59.81% |
| Expenses | ||||||||||
| Interest and Financing Fees | 316 | 26.69% | 80 | 33.61% | 79 | 27.34% | 79 | 23.51% | 78 | 24.30% |
| Interest on Capital Securities | 31 | 2.62% | 0 | 0.00% | 0 | 0.00% | 0 | 0.00% | 31 | 9.66% |
| Depreciation and Amortization | 169 | 14.27% | 42 | 17.65% | 42 | 14.53% | 44 | 13.10% | 41 | 12.77% |
| Non-Controlling Interests | 77 | 6.50% | 12 | 5.04% | 11 | 3.81% | 40 | 11.90% | 14 | 4.36% |
| Provision for (recovery of ) Income Taxes | 53 | 4.48% | 11 | 4.62% | 52 | 17.99% | 9 | 2.68% | -19 | -5.92% |
| Total Expenses | 646 | 54.56% | 145 | 60.92% | 184 | 63.67% | 172 | 51.19% | 145 | 45.17% |
| Net Income (Loss) | 277 | 23.40% | 59 | 24.79% | 148 | 51.21% | 23 | 6.85% | 47 | 14.64% |
| Catalyst Old River Hydroelectric Partnership | $ 40 |
| Powell River Energy and sub | 33 |
| Great Lakes Hydro Income Fund | 146 |
| Bear Swamp Power | 2 |
| Subsidiaries of BESA | 18 |
| Total | $239 |
| Interest Coverage Ratio | |
| Net Operating Income (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 807 |
| Subtract: | |
| Depreciation and Amortization | 169 |
| Non-Controlling Interests | 77 |
| Net Income Before Taxes | 561 |
| Add: | |
| Interest and Financing Fees | 316 |
| Interest on Capital Securities | 31 |
| Interest Coverage Ratio | |
| Net Income Before Taxes | 561 |
| Add: | |
| Interest and Financing Fees | 316 |
| Interest on Capital Securities | 31 |
| Net Income Before Taxes and Interest Expenses | 908 |
| Divided by Interest Expenses | 347 |
| Interest coverage Ratio | 2.62 |
| Interest Coverage Ratio | |
| Net Operating Income (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 807 |
| Subtract: | |
| Depreciation and Amortization | 169 |
| Non-Controlling Interests | 77 |
| Unrealized Derivative Gain (loss) | 96 |
| Investment and Other Income | 20 |
| Net Income Before Taxes | 445 |
| Add: | |
| Interest and Financing Fees | 316 |
| Interest on Capital Securities | 31 |
| Interest Coverage Ratio | |
| Net Income Before Taxes | 445 |
| Add: | |
| Interest and Financing Fees | 316 |
| Interest on Capital Securities | 31 |
| Net Income Before Taxes and Interest Expenses | 792 |
| Divided by Interest Expenses | 347 |
| Interest coverage Ratio | 2.28 |
(9.) Funds that BAM manage are not performing
within expectations. These include Crystal River, Some Hyperions, Brascan,
Multiplex, Brookfield Properties (projected) and Brookfield Homes (projected).
Here is an example on Multiplex Funds on 3/2/09
On 3/2/09 MULTIPLEX ACUMEN PROPERTY FUND (MPF) closed at $0.03. This has lost
98% of its value since 12/31/07, and 77% of its value since 12/22/08.
MULTIPLEX ACUMEN PROPERTY FUND (MPF) at 12/31/07 was priced at $1.25. It
closed at $0.29 on 10/31/08, $0.20 on 11/24/08 and $0.10 on 12/22/08.
On 3/2/09 MULTIPLEX EUROPEAN PROPERTY FUND (MUE)closed at $0.12. This has lost
87% of its value since 12/31/07, and 30% of its value since 12/22/08.
MULTIPLEX EUROPEAN PROPERTY FUND (MUE)at 12/31/07 was priced at $0.90. It
closed at $0.27 on 10/31/08, $0.20 on 11/24/08 and $0.17 on 12/22/08.
Here are some notes I had on potential debt breaches.
Brookfield’s Multiplex Acumen Fund May Breach Debt Agreements
Dec. 17 (Bloomberg) -- Multiplex Acumen Property Fund, a A$342 million ($238
million) money manager controlled by Brookfield Asset Management Inc.’s
Australian unit, said sliding property values may force it to breach debt
covenants on Dec. 31.
The fund started its yearly review with lenders and would have 90 days to
rectify any breach, Multiplex Acumen said today in a statement to the
Australian stock exchange.
“The deterioration in the asset value of a number of the fund’s underlying
investments, together with a sector-wide reduction in distribution income, is
expected to have a negative impact on the net tangible assets,” Multiplex
Acumen said.
Brookfield, the Toronto-based manager of $90 billion in assets including real
estate, paid A$5.7 billion last year to acquire Multiplex Group. Brookfield
last month said it agreed to refinance $800 million of Australia-related debt.
Credit Suisse, a long time bull on BAM commented the following on 12/17/08.
A. Potential breach of covenants is a minor near-term negative for BAM. CS
does not believe that BAM has significant exposure to the fund.
B. The poor market performance for the related funds presents "significant
restructuring opportunities."
C. Concern over potential cash funding needs for some of the funds and concern
over BAM's ability to raise new money for asset management because of poor
performance.
D. Historically CS claims that BAM does well in these funds. I say,
historically in depressed economic conditions BAM did not have the excess
leverage and pending increases in costs of capital as in the past.
(10.) Previous business conditions with wind at tail no longer exist.
Closer eye on Corporate responsibility.
(11.) I am reviewing a bunch of data. It seems as though their IFRS
reporting could be potentially aggressive. They are using discount rates and
other DCF techniques. All legal, all subject to interpretation. I only quickly
glanced and need to further review, but I think the discount rates could be
raised, which in turn would bring down asset values. Higher the cap rate,
lower the asset value. Higher the discount rate assumption, lower the asset
value.
(12) Use of cash via buy-backs - It will be interesting to see the Annual Report and 10K, when filed on 3/31/09. On one hand, going from memory, BAM has received money from employees exercising options. Then BAM spends the money on buybacks. At 12/31/07 they had 'Common shares and common share equivalents" of 599M shares, at 12/31/08 they had 592M shares. These numbers can not be determined until Annual or SEC filing. BAM repurchased per their supplemental 12/31/08 filing 14.2M shares. They spent $286.4M in 2008 at an average price of $20.17
Brookfield Renewable Power pays a $1.1B Dividend (PIK?)
"On February 25, 2009, the Company declared a $1,100 million dividend payable to its common shareholder. Payment of the dividend was effected by reducing the amount receivable from the Company’s common shareholder. Immediately prior to declaring the dividend, the Company issued preferred shares to Brookfield in the amount of $1,100 million with proceeds being a reduction in the balance owing to Brookfield."
Tower completes purchase of BAM Hermitage Insurance 3/9/09
"NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tower Group, Inc. ( Tower
; NASDAQ: TWGP) announced today that it has completed the acquisition of HIG,
Inc. (“Hermitage”), a specialty property and casualty insurance holding
company, from a subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management Inc. for $130
million. This transaction was previously announced on August 27, 2008."
"Through its insurance subsidiaries, Hermitage Insurance Company and Kodiak
Insurance Company, Hermitage offers products both on an admitted and a
non-admitted basis to commercial customers throughout the United States. The
company produced $107 million in gross premiums written during 2008 through
its distribution network of approximately 150 retail agents in the Southeast
and key wholesale relationships throughout the East Coast. Hermitage writes
business in 29 states and the District of Columbia on a non-admitted basis and
in 14 states on an admitted basis."
This is what BAM wrote in 4Q08 Supplemental.
"Hermitage Insurance Company (“Hermitage”), a property and casualty insurer
which operates principally in the Northeast United States; and Trisura
Guarantee Insurance Company, a surety company based in Toronto. We manage the
securities portfolios of these companies, which totalled $1.0 billion and
consist primarily of highly rated Government and corporate bonds, through our
public securities operations. We completed the sale of the United Kingdom
reinsurance business within Imagine, thereby recovering capital of $200
million, and negotiated the sale of Hermitage for proceeds of $125 million,
which is expected to close in the first quarter of 2009. We intend to recover
the balance of the capital from the Imagine business over time through an
orderly run-off of the business."
1540 Broadway in NYC was purchased in 2007 for $830M. It is 906,000 SF. It looks like it will sell for $375M and is set to close next month. This comes out to $390 SF. Macklowe building and now DB. This is in the heart of NYC Midtown West. My understanding is this is a prime location.
We recently heard of the potential of the deal falling through. Apparently that has been worked out and a contract is expected.
Here is an article from 1/6/09 on the building.
http://www.nypost.com/seven/01062009/business/deal_for_1540_bway_147352.htm
"Sources said a deal is looming to sell the office portion of the former Bertelsmann Building at 1540 Broadway - some 880,000 square feet - to an unidentified suitor, possibly by the end of the month.
Although no contract is signed yet, different sources valued the mostly cash deal at between $375-$450 a square foot - peanuts compared to what the property might have fetched in early 2008.
But Studley investment sale specialist Woody Heller, who is not involved at 1540 Broadway, noted, "If a deal is indeed concluded, while it would clearly reflect prices that are a dramatic departure from a short period ago, it will be very encouraging to see a transaction of this size completed in the current market."
"Major office tenants include Viacom and several law firms. Retailer Forever 21 recently signed a lease to take over Vornado's Virgin Megastore space. "
Here are some details I have on 1540 Broadway NYC:
Class A
building
Built in 1989
SF 889,092 - 906,000
Asking Rent $72.53
Vacancy 0.4%
Previously Midtown West had SF prices of $540 - $1045 per SF. This sale changes that bar. Perhaps this sets a precedent on CRE in Midtown West.
If < $400 is the new benchmark, consider Loan To Values for upcoming refinancings. I have a theory that CRE purchased between 2003 - 2005 is at best break even. Real Estate purchased 2006 - 2007 could have material devaluations.
Brookfield Properties increased their assets via purchases (Trizec for one) by $11B in 2006 and 2007. During the same period debt increased by $7B.
Some Information compiled from Brookfield Properties Annual Reports
|
|
Maintenance Capex |
Forward guidance of Capex from previous year AR |
% Fixed debt |
Average Interest Rate |
Total Assets |
Total Debt |
Total Equity |
Equity / Asset Ratio |
Portfolio Size in Square Feet in Millions |
|
2007 |
$49M |
not disclosed |
61% |
6.65% |
$20,473 |
$12,125 |
$3,033 |
14.81% |
73 |
|
2006 |
$25M |
not disclosed |
56% |
6.8% |
$19,314 |
$11,185 |
$3,067 |
15.88% |
76 |
|
2005 |
$21M |
not disclosed |
81% |
6.5% 9 years |
$9,513 |
$5,216 |
$1,898 |
19.95% |
48 |
|
2004 |
$26M |
not disclosed |
"primarily" |
6.5% 12 years |
$8,491 |
$4,550 |
$2,027 |
23.87% |
46 |
|
2003 |
$16M |
$6 - $10M |
"primarily" |
6.6% 12 years |
$8,097 |
$4,537 |
$1,915 |
23.65% |
46 |
|
2002 |
$16M |
$6 - $10M |
"primarily" |
7.0% 10 years |
$8,329 |
$4,588 |
$2,093 |
25.13% |
46 |
|
2001 |
$14M |
$6 - $10M |
96% |
7.0% |
$8,076 |
$4,606 |
$2,642 |
32.71% |
45 |
|
2000 |
$12M |
$6M |
91% |
7.3% |
$8,624 |
$4,702 |
$1.787 |
20.72% |
46 |
.
Here are some interesting and occasionally conflicting cap rate discussion by Brookfield Asset Management and Brookfield Properties. Notice how cap rate assumptions seem to jump around a bit.
“I was hoping to hear back from you on my questions from the other day. Please let me know when I will be hearing back. Here are my questions.
1. How much was owed to Brookfield Asset Management on 12/31/08? How much is now owed?
2. Are there any other related or controlled entities of BAM which have debt with BHS?
3. We discussed the rights offering. I am familiar with the press release indicating that the proceeds will be used to reduce debt and general corporate purposes. How much of the $250M would be used to pay back BAM. Would it be all of it, a substantial part of it? Please quantify your expectations if you could.
4. I had asked a hypothetical question in regards to the rights offering. Even though the intended purpose of the proceeds was to pay down debt and general corporate purposes. If BHS happened to see an unusually excellent opportunity in buying a distressed situation for pennies on the dollar, could the rights offerings proceeds ever be used for something like that, since it is not typically "general corporate purposes."
I hope to
hear from you soon. I hope I am acknowledged on conference calls in the future,
as my questions above would have been asked, had BHS not ignored me in the Que.”
Credit Suisse, a long time bull on BAM commented
the following on 12/17/08.
A. Potential breach of covenants is a minor near-term negative for BAM. CS does
not believe that BAM has significant exposure to the fund.
B. The poor market performance for the related funds presents "significant
restructuring opportunities."
C. Concern over potential cash funding needs for some of the funds and concern
over BAM's ability to raise new money for asset management because of poor
performance.
D. Historically CS claims that BAM does well in these funds. I say, historically
in depressed economic conditions BAM did not have the excess leverage and
pending increases in costs of capital as in the past.
Brookfield Homes to issue preferred stock
BHS which is down 72% this year (15.80 to 4.50) is going to try and offer to the public, preferred shares for $250M. If they are able to do this, it would be yet another major opportunistic coup for Brookfield Asset Management. The use of proceeds will be used to pay back Brookfield Asset Management unsecured debt.
"Assuming full participation, the proceeds from the rights offering are expected to be $250,000,000, before deducting estimated expenses of $ relating to the rights offering. The proceeds from the rights offering will be used for general corporate purposes, including repayment on the credit facility of an affiliate of our largest beneficial stockholder, Brookfield Asset Management Inc."
BAM seems to be getting some awesome prices IMO on the recent sales of Longview, Canary Wharf, Pingston and Prince Wind. Of course related parties bought all of these parties.
CFO of BHS is Craig Laurie. He has a nice track
record of generating funds in creative ways. If you recall he was previously
with now delisted Crystal River. Another BAM managed fund that crashed and
burned. If you recall, you called Crystal River as "strong" in the beginning of
the year.
Craig Laurie was quoted in Brascan 2001 Annual Report. "We strengthened our
financial position during the year with the completion of several major
initiatives, including the issue of $450m of term notes and $375m of preferred
securities." Craig Laurie 2001AR.
Not only has BAM created liquidity from sales of
assets at what I consider great prices to RELATED COMPANIES for Longview, Canary
Wharf, Pingston and Prince Wind.
But they also are looking to raise HALF A BILLION DOLLARS or so, via the rights
offerings of Norbord and now BHS.
1. “The concerns we highlighted last year at the Investor Meeting had begun to evidence themselves as illiquidity, sublets, falling rents and increasing cap rates now define the market that we operate in on a day-to-day basis.”
2. “It's a market that tests ones resolve and shocks us regularly with new accounts of incredibly rapid shifts of fortunes, and events. It's a market that will be unmerciful to those companies that have not prepared themselves for this moment or that are in markets that are going to fall too far for too long, but will reward those who have a feasible plan to meet the challenges confronting us today and to capitalize on the opportunities that will appear over the next 24 to 36 months.”
3. “We also took what was previously an unencumbered asset at 28 West 44th Street and went ahead and mortgaged that asset, which provided $125 million of additional liquidity. So, $410 million of new financings which netted us $160 million of new liquidity took care of all of our remaining maturities for 2008. But I think more importantly demonstrated that even in a challenging environment where there is debt capital available it does make its way into the New York market and does follow long-term credit leases.”
4. "More importantly there is a very, very big difference between an undrawn credit facility and an available credit facility because, of course, you need to demonstrate that you're in covenanting compliance after drawing down all of your funds, and that's, of course, dependent upon what type of covenant package you have."
5. "Steve spoke earlier in welcoming everyone about the city, its resiliency, and his long-term views and the company's long-term views about what we still believe today is the best commercial market. Over the long run it's obviously going through serious, painful contraction right now."
6. "I think looking forward there's no construction on the horizon that's yet to be calculated in everybody's availability rates. Consequently when you see a 12% anticipated vacancy in 2010 that's driven primarily by anticipated sublease space from our perspective we think it's going to land somewhere between 10% and 12%."
7. "if you go back in time to '90/'91 where the market peaked at 17% availability that was a point in time driven by tremendous new construction and oversupply. And also to give a little bit of perspective the highest amount, proportionate share of sublease space ever to come onto the market relative to overall availability was 45% of the overall availability rates. So, I think we expect the availability rate in sublease to double over the next year, year and a half, and then at that point it will trail off when growth comes back into the market."
8. "..the worst credit environment that we've seen in 30 years and probably more likely 80 years..."
9. "...those are probably the more challenging to refinance in today's market, we have roughly $650 million of corporate obligations that come due over the next three years, and we have roughly $990 million of secured financings that come due over the next three years. So, how are we going to deal with those -- how are we going to deal with those pending maturities assuming that the credit markets don't come back over the next three years?" "..."So, for those corporate credit obligations, we have $858 million of cash on hand to address those. And in fact, as we've mentioned before, the $282 million of the 2010 notes which is a $930 million balance, we've already started to chip away at those obligations, so $225 million of cash on hand in excess of the corporate obligations that come due over the next three-year period."
10. "We are cognizant of the fact that the credit markets are virtually shut down."
1. "At the moment, many of the life insurance company lenders have moved to the sidelines, when they are presented with new, secured financing opportunities. They just can't understand or rationalize pricing. So the real estate industry finds itself with very limited access to long-term funding, though this is clearly not just a real estate related industry problem."
2. "This is Mort Zuckerman speaking. Well, we have been in a period of extraordinary turmoil, really unprecedented in anybody's lifetime on this telephone call, and probably the most dramatic financial collapse, or at least collapse of wealth the history of this country. I would say that the financial collapse in this period of time is and will be greater than what happened during the Great Depression, but the actual decline in the real economy, the Main Street part of the economy in my judgment will be considerably less, for all kinds of reasons. I'll just mention a couple of them. One is that, we forget in that 1929 when the market crashed, nothing really happened until the beginning of 1933, when in March FDR became the President, and things like Federal Deposit insurance and Social Security all happened in 1934 and 1935, and that's what began to improve the economy, but in that interim period 40% of America's banks failed and we had a 1/3 decline in the money supply, which turned to what could have been a serious recession into a major depression."
3. "Having said all of that, it does seem to me that we have not yet fully experienced what the decline will be in the Main Street or in the real economy, as a result of what has happened in the world of finance, because we did not have the kind of total freeze-up of the credit system any time since the end of World War II that is comparable to what has been going on today and continues. As you heard Doug and Mike describe, we were really very cautious in our financing, and we're fortunate to have decided to take advantage of the real estate values in the commercial side in the first six months of 2007 and the last six months of 2006, and to do some refinancing, and to do this wonderful financing on August 19 of this year, frankly because we had made a policy that we would try and raise money when we could raise it and not when we needed it. And who knew in September the entire financial world would freeze up,. But we have had an extraordinary freeze in the credit system, and what is going to take considerable time to recover in that world, and in the business world in general, is a breakdown of confidence, which has really been extraordinary. There is a wonderful story that was told of an economist who was walking by and he sees a $100.00 bill on the ground, and his friend said to him as he walked by, he said why don't you pick it up, he said, well, if it was still there, it probably wasn't worth anything since nobody else picked it up. All of that goes to the point that credit comes out of the latin word [cridare], which means to believe, and people have stopped believing."
4. "And of course, the fundamental advantage that we have we believe embedded in our strategy has been repeated so many times, is we do believe that having the highest quality buildings in the markets that we are in really is a help. These are all supply constrained markets. If you look in New York alone, it is amazing and really stunning how the supply constraint is going to be demonstrated. Because in Midtown, basically you virtually have no space coming out over the next four years. At the most there will be two buildings, one of which will be ours, and we're looking at, therefore, a situation which there is not going to be a lot of additional supply coming on the markets, particularly at the highest end of the markets."
5. "We really, we sold a lot of buildings, as you know, almost $4.3 billion worth the last half of 2006, first half of 2007. There isn't a building that we own at this stage of the game that we really sort of wouldn't want to hold for the longer term. So we're going to look to whatever it takes to maintain the ownership of these buildings. We think, unless we get a very, very attractive offer, which we certainly would be open to, at least on a partnership basis, I don't think we want to sell any of our buildings, I think we're just going to work with that assumption."
6. "The good news is that you can take a number of major buildings that we have, where the financing is in very low percentages in relation to value, and when I say low, I'm talking about 25%, 30%, 35%. So you have all kinds of chances if that is the easiest and most cost efficient way to raise additional money, we would look at that. We would prefer to do that it that way quite frankly. We don't want to dilute the equity in the Company, we don't want to dilute the equity in our buildings, because we think we have a fabulous portfolio of assets, that over time are going to show us tremendous profits over and above where they are doing now, and we want to be able to maintain these."
7. "We don't know what is going to happen over the next year or two in terms of what sourcing in terms of money and funding and financing will be available. If you can tell us that we would be very happy to respond it to, but I don't think anybody really can know. We're in the very first innings of what has been an extraordinarily tumultuous and unprecedented time in the world of finance, so we are where we are, and we'll just have to wait and see. It's a going to settle down. It will take, in my judgment, a few more months before it settles down, and then we'll see what the best option."
8. "I would say that the strongest market is Boston, followed by Washington, D.C., followed by San Francisco, and followed by New York. If you're talking about the suburban markets, the Boston markets are clearly the strongest, Cambridge and the Waltham market, followed by northern Virginia in the Reston marketplace, not the overall market, and then followed by the greater Peninsula. Just because we haven't talked about it, we've actually signed 70,000 square feet of new leases in our Mountain View properties down in Silicon Valley in the last two or three days. So, there is activity in the suburban markets that people really aren't talking about and people aren't reading about. So, that would be my quick and dirty viewpoint."
1. "Let me begin by saying that I've been in our business for 42 years. During that time we've been through a lot as a Company including some very challenging times. But I must confess that I have never experienced anything quite like this. As you have heard us say before, we believe conditions will worsen before they get better. We have also heard from a number of investors that we're more pessimistic than some of our peers. But frankly this is the way we see it and this is how we've planned. It's all about ensuring survival and anyone who is not doing anything possible to deal with that fact isn't being realistic. When Bob and (Mike Lonswick) came back from the recent (Mayreed) Annual Convention two weeks ago, this was clearly the tone that they heard almost to a person."
2. "The significant disruption in the debt capital markets has increased investors focused on near term debt maturity. It's important for me to emphasis we closed on more than $1.9 billion in project loans through the third quarter and closed on an additional $100 million since the end of the quarter."
3. "On the permanent financing side, smaller loans are a little bit easier. There's a few people you can talk to, but loans over $100 million, very difficult. So it's a challenge. There aren't a lot of players out there. People are, you heard on our call, playing defense and keeping liquidity."
| Maintenance Capex | Forward guidance of Capex from previous year AR | % Fixed debt | Average Interest Rate | Total Assets | Total Debt | Total Equity | Equity / Asset Ratio | Portfolio Size in Square Feet in Millions | |
| 2007 | $49M | not disclosed | 61% | 6.65% | $20,473 | $12,125 | $3,033 | 14.81% | 73 |
| 2006 | $25M | not disclosed | 56% | 6.8% | $19,314 | $11,185 | $3,067 | 15.88% | 76 |
| 2005 | $21M | not disclosed | 81% | 6.5% 9 years | $9,513 | $5,216 | $1,898 | 19.95% | 48 |
| 2004 | $26M | not disclosed | "primarily" | 6.5% 12 years | $8,491 | $4,550 | $2,027 | 23.87% | 46 |
| 2003 | $16M | $6 - $10M | "primarily" | 6.6% 12 years | $8,097 | $4,537 | $1,915 | 23.65% | 46 |
| 2002 | $16M | $6 - $10M | "primarily" | 7.0% 10 years | $8,329 | $4,588 | $2,093 | 25.13% | 46 |
| 2001 | $14M | $6 - $10M | 96% | 7.0% | $8,076 | $4,606 | $2,642 | 32.71% | 45 |
| 2000 | $12M | $6M | 91% | 7.3% | $8,624 | $4,702 | $1.787 | 20.72% | 46 |
Is the Multiplex loan in AUD or USD? I was thinking the balance was $1.6B USD, prior to recent changes. Either way, would you please send me a quick reconciliation of the loan. I think that Wachovia wrote a piece that mentioned the loan was in AUD. I was trying to reconcile the $1.6B. Here it is quickly below.
Loan Extension $800
Pay Down in April 2009 $140
Pay down in Nov/Dec 2008 $335
Total $1,275
Hence, I am having difficulty reconciling the difference between $1.6B and $1.275B of $325.
| Date | Shares | USD per Share |
| 12/01/08 | 31,500 | $13.995 |
| 12/03/08 | 80,000 | $12.9656 |
| 12/03/08 | 20,000 | $16.67 |
| 12/05/08 | 50,000 | $12.6489 |
December 15, 2008 (13.67)
| Common Equity or book value | $5,821M |
| subtract: intangibles and goodwill | (3,649) |
| add: Intangible liabilities | 963 |
| Adjusted Tangible Book Value | $3,135 |
| Current Market Cap of Common using $14.14 per share and 620.3M shares | $8,771M |
| Price To Book Assumptions | Share Price if based on Price to Book Assumption |
| 0.75X | $ 3.79 |
| 1.00X | $ 5.05 |
| 1.50X | $ 7.58 |
| 1.80X | $ 9.09 |
| 2.00X | $10.11 |
| 2.50X | $12.64 |
| 3.00X | $15.16 |
We do conduct business in a number of different -- different geographies. We principally focus on how things translate back to the US dollar. But we would certainly take into consideration, how we would see a currency from a value perspective, recognizing that the capital that is already within that sector, can -- is rolled over in that currency. And we tend to take a pretty long term view with respect to how the currency values apply to those long term physical assets. Particularly with regard to what the cost of any hedging might be."
"British Land, Britain's second largest commercial property company, has written down the value of its shops and offices by £1.9 billion as it slumped to a £1.6 billion loss and gave warning of a further decline in property values for the year ahead."
"British Land's heavy exposure to the troubled City offices market - it owns the Broadgate Estate - resulted in its value declines being far more severe than those suffered last week by rival Land Securities, the UK's largest commercial property company, which fell to an £888 million loss after £1.28 billion of write-downs."
"British Land also has a 10.8 per cent per cent stake in Canary Wharf, the Docklands developer, which it was forced to write down by 27.5 per cent to £185 million."
So British Land values 10.8% at £185 million. The current exchange rate is 1.9681 to the USD. Hence a 10.8% ownership is valued at $364M, so a 15% ownership might be valued at $505M and not $1B. I really do not know the particulars, and maybe this is being shown net of debt for British Land. I’m trying to work the numbers here and am having difficulty. Canary Wharf fair Value at 12/31/07 was £3,206.9m (see 5. below). Hence 10.8% would be £346M. Hence a 27.5% write down would bring the value to £250.85.
May 15, 2008 Further Random Notes
1. Perhaps look into this. In June 2007, Brookfield Homes formed a joint venture with California State Teachers Retirement System (CalSTRS), this was for land development. There is apparently $450M of committed capital and managed by Brookfield Homes. Should get a status report on that.
2. Brookfield Financial supposedly BAM’s investment bank. Get more info.
3. Brookfield Soundvest supposedly manages $700M and is 50% owned by BAM. Try and determine what sum of the parts that I worth.
4. BAM owns 80% of Imagine Insurance. Read 2007 financials. I am fairly certain I read 2006, and they appeared to be a well respected and prudent firm.
5. BAM I think owns 100% of Hermitage Insurance. Their website mentions this, “Our current A.M. Best Company is “B++”. Hermitage Insurance Company is domiciled in the State of New York and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management Company, (NYSE:BAM).” The site is http://www.hermitageins.com/ There is really nothing on the site at all.
6. I saw an interesting table in regards to Brookfield Properties Inc. The report was from Genuity and dated March 3, 2008. The report claims that “utilized cap rate” for BPO is 6.05%. Midtown was listed as 5% and lower Manhattan at 6%, DC 6%.
7. Same Genuity Report has excellent pages on 86 in regards to Cap rate Value. Page 87 gives an item by item valuation. Page 93 gives a nice view of NAV as well.
8. Timberlands – At some point I need to review Grant’s Interest Rate Observer’s generic Timberland formula.
9. BAM owns 50.1% of Brookfield Properties. Does that include the 5% that Brookfield Investments Corp owns of Brookfield Properties Inc.
10. Bulls argue that historical cost offers no reflection on Brookfield Properties Value. One would have to decipher the recent purchases such as TRICAP to see if that statement is as relevant anyway. Looks like it all comes down to Cap Rates and Replacement Cost multiples anyway.
11. Remember to look at Tangible Book Value. My notes show Tangible Book Value of 3033 and intangibles of 759. I have to look what company that is.
12. Interesting site for Hydro Power http://www.waterpowermagazine.com
BPO Properties:
1. Total Loans Receivable at December 31, 2007 and 2006 were $283.5M and $100.2M respectively. Included in loans receivable is $220.3 million (compared with nil in 2006) demand loan receivable issued to the Company’s parent, Brookfield Properties Corporation (“BPC”) on December 24, 2007. The loan bears interest at 5%, or higher than what the Company would earn on short-term deposits. Interest income related to this loan of $0.2 million was recorded during 2007 (compared with nil in 2006).
2. Do Cap Rate and valuation ROTs on BPO Properties.
May 15, 2008 Looking at Vornado for some potential future insight to BAM
1. Except from Vornado's 2007 annual report comments:
"I have always believed that, over the long term, real estate values closely correlate with replacement cost, the number at which new supply enters the market. That number in Washington is $700-800 in the District of Columbia and $450 per square foot in the suburbs. In Manhattan, replacement cost is, say, $900 per square foot for outlying sites and much more if one can find a Sixth Avenue to Lexington Avenue site. All this becomes even more interesting when one considers, as I do, that Vornado's current share price values our Manhattan towers at about $500 per square foot." Steve Roth CEO Vornado Realty Trust 2007 Annual Letter.
An industry insider wrote to me, "Looks like replacement cost is a metric that he looks at in valuing real estate. It's a good metric because if someone can build a brand new competing building that has similar rent structure as your building then you are at risk of losing your tenants to the new building. If replacement costs are very high than developers need very high net rents in order to make their returns."
Another industry insider wrote, “Building value correlate with building cost that correlate to a strong local economy with low vacancy rates (under 10% and decline). Consequently one can skip over building costs and look to the local economy, rents and vacancy rates. The cost to build a skyscraper in Jersey City may be slightly lower than to build it in Manhattan, but their rents and consequently values would surely be significantly different. Washington will remain strong due to the heavy government presence. NYC may not fare as well if Wall St and Banking continue to layoff employees.”
Steve Roth discussed replacement cost as eventual fair value. Says it has always been that way. Extrapolating that further, he also feels that Cap rate would be a good cross check for that. So my questions are as follows:
1. Does that replacement cost include land? I would imagine it does. So if we were in a commercial bubble, wouldn't replacement cost be artificially adjusted upwards for the high land price? How much of the $900 per square foot would you think includes land.
An industry insider wrote, “Replacement cost does include land value. I think land value is typically 20 pct or so.”
2. In the near future, if Cap rates are low to begin with, how could a cap rate ever approximate a price of say $900 per square foot (Class A NYC)? Do you see valuations like that? Knowing you don't see much class A in NYC.
An industry insider wrote, “That being said, I'm not sure I understand the $900 number. I think replacement cost for class A office in suburban Maryland is in the $250-300 range. Unless the land and construction costs are that much higher in NYC than Roth's number seems high although the land cost for prime real estate could be super high in NY...much more than 20pct.
Cap rates are based on income which is derived from rents. I think rents in Class A NYC buildings are getting up to $100psf gross. Assuming expenses of $20 psf, net rent are $80. That level of net rent would justify $900 psf values.”
2. I attended the Shareholder’s meeting on May 15, 2008. According to Steve Roth, it was the 49th Shareholder Meeting as a public company.
A. Asked about cross checking valuation of NYC Class A commercial Real Estate. (See Notes above.) I asked if he uses a Cap rate cross check and compares to Rule of Thumb Valuation method of using Replacement Cost. He mentioned that Cap rates certainly do matter; yet “I am not in the business of valuing Vornado.” I spoke with an influential Company person and the views were that long term expected cap rates in this interest rate environment, should be around 7%. Claims they are now 5%, apples to apples. Claims normalized occupancy to be in the area of 95%. Feels that interest rates and debt costs are only rising. That is interesting for me based on Cap rate discussions.
B. Mentioned that long term and typical Loan To Values are in the 60 – 65% range. I spoke with an influential Company person and the views were that leverage amongst companies like Vornado would be coming down. We discussed a situation where financing needs were immediate, and there was specific mention that certain companies will suffer. The remainder of our conversation is off the record.
C. I asked about the “prevalence of interest only loans used in this market. Is it a sign of the times? It seems as though leverage is created by smaller monthly payments as opposed to say 10 years ago.” Steve Roth claimed it is a sign of the times, lower than normal cost of capital.
D. I didn’t ask about Mezzanine Loans and composition, but those were kind of immaterial to the financials, and need not bring those up. I wanted to know if they held any Brookfield loans in those investments, but didn’t have the cajones to ask.
May 12, 2008 Interesting Blurbs from Kiplinger Letter 5/9/08
"Credit markets are finally showing some hints of a thaw. Banks are repairing their balance sheets, raising $212 billion this year. And spreads between Tiffany-quality Treasuries and other bonds are narrowing, a good sign that investors believe lending is less risky."
"Mortgage woes are taking a toll on commercial real estate, with deals falling to $40 billion in the first quarter, from $137 billion a year ago. The biggest problem: A freeze on buying and selling mortgage-backed bonds. The market won’t pick up until well into 2009. The weak economy will push up office vacancies. The vacancy rate will rise from 13% to 14.5% by year-end and 16.3% next year. All markets will feel it, even the strong, such as Boston, Houston, Seattle, NYC and San Francisco. Hit hardest: Detroit, Phoenix and Las Vegas. Rents will go up just 2% this year, with no hike next year. Expect landlords to entice tenants with offers of a free month or renovations."
1. PFD-2 (low) with a Stable trend for the Senior Preferred Shares.
2. “Despite disappointing results and declines in share prices across its forest products investments.” Claims they still generate sufficient cash flows and asset coverage to support the rating.
3. According to www.dbrs.com "Preferred shares rated Pfd-2 are of satisfactory credit quality. Protection of dividends and principal is still substantial, but earnings, the balance sheet, and coverage ratios are not as strong as Pfd-1 rated companies. Generally, Pfd-2 ratings correspond with companies whose senior bonds are rated in the "A" category."
4. Discusses Loan Receivable and cash given to Brookfield Investments as support of Norbord asset coverage. They cite the continued Norbord dividend. Claims a higher appraised value at December 2007 of Canary Wharf, yet citing that Brookfield Properties has lost some value in 2007.
5. Overall dividend income from the portfolio was higher than expected. Dividend increases came from Great Lakes Holdings and Canadian Dollars of Norbord and Fraser. Now the sustainability of dividend is at risk due to Norbord weakness.
6. They claim that Common share holdings include:
|
Norbord |
41% Interest |
|
Canary Wharf |
15% Interest |
|
Brookfield Properties |
5% Interest |
|
BPO Properties Preferred Shares |
7.3% of Total Brookfield Investments Market Value |
|
Brookfield Asset Mananagement Preferred Shares |
8.3% of Total Brookfield Investments Market Value |
7. The ratings are supported by a variety of conditions. These conditions include but are not limited to:
A. Asset Coverage – Market Value of Brookfield Investments portfolio of investments minus the accrued expenses then divided by the sum of the par value of the Senior Preferred Shares would be at least 3X.
B. Company senior debt not exceeding 10% of the market value of Investment Portfolio.
C. Asset Coverage must be 3X before common share dividends can be paid.
DBRS acknowledges that 50% of underlying portfolio is unlisted and may be illiquid, and that market conditions and lack of restrictions could cause significant reductions on the NAV.
8. Stock symbol is BRN.PR.A-T. Here is link for quote: http://investdb.theglobeandmail.com/invest/investSQL/gx.show_chart?iaction=Generate&pl_period=12D&pl_primary_listing=BRN.PR.A-T
May 9, 2008
1. At some point fully review Zephyr document from 20080502.
2. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners bought assets from Great Lakes Power LTD. I need to determine if LTD is related to Brookfield Power Inc. or Great Lakes Hydro Income Fund.
Here are some questions asked to BAM in regards to Brookfield Renewable Power Inc.:
1. Note 23 of BPI 2007 financials. I was able to trace all amounts in the schedule except for "Contributed Surplus." The amounts for 2007 and 2006 were $204 and $199 respectively. Would you please detail and explain that. ["I am still waiting for that answer" Denis Couture 5/1/08] . “These were intercompany assets, and rather than record a gain, not allowable for GAAP.” Related party assets and amounts are now eliminated per Sachin Shah on May 22, 2008. ( 416 369 8268 sshah@brookfield.com )
2. Where would the funding to Brookfield Renewable Energy ($200M) and to Brookfield Homes be located in the supplemental info? When was the last time that BAM injected material capital into power operations in the past? Per Sachin on 5/22/08, this money was not really injected, it was more of accounting entry and helped with the almagamation of Power Corp. into Power Inc.
3. You mentioned to me "From time to time, it happens that we need to raise capital to meet covenants." Would you please explain what the covenants were? Are covenant requirements listed anywhere for reading? I spoke with Sachin Shah on 5/22/08, and did not bring this up.
4. Based on my conversation with Sachin Shah on 5/22/08, he mentioned that the recharacterization of Renewable Power shareholders equity, basically just made things easier. The debt on capital securities was there as a GAAP requirement because of convertible preferred’s. The preferreds according to Sachin were converted to actual equity, and since BAM owns 100% of Power, it does not show up on BAM consolidated level. Interest expense on capital securities will be non-existent going forward. There is still a loan receivable on the books for $646M and a payable of $104M. These are shown seperately as required by GAAP according to Sachin. At any time BAM can have Power declare a dividend and reduce that amount according to Sachin. Sachin mentioned that on a consolidated level of Power, the interest coverages are low, yet on a deconsolidated balance they are quite high, sometimes 10X.
Questions Previously answered by BAM:
1. Can you give any more detail on $200M contribution? On one hand Brookfield Power pays interest expense to BAM of $125M in 2007, and in 2008 BAM gives Power $200M. [because the assets have been depreciated over a long period of time, the book value of equity does not necessarily reflect the fair value of the equity. From time to time, it happens that we need to raise capital to meet covenants]
2. Note 23 of BPI 2007 financials. I was able to trace all amounts in the schedule except for "Contributed Surplus." The amounts for 2007 and 2006 were $204 and $199 respectively. Would you please detail and explain that. [I am still waiting for that answer]
3. I was rereading the annual report for Power Inc. I thought that BAM owned 100% of BPI (now Renewable Energy). With that said this part of the statement is not making sense to me.
"29. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On January 24, 2008, Brookfield injected $200 million of capital into the
Company in order to provide additional liquidity to the Company. In return,
Brookfield received 6,827,118 common shares in the Company."
If BAM already owns 100%, what difference would it make how many shares they are given. Perhaps I am misreading or just missing a concept. [Yes BAM owns 100% but when we inject capital in a company, we do it in accordance with the capital structure of the company not on the basis of ownership – which could vary]
Cap Rate Discussion:
I asked an industry insider in commercial real estate the following (answers are italicized with quotes.)
Typically what would class A cap rate be in major metro area? The answer was, “I would say 6-6.5% for Class A in Strong markets.”
What would you expect in future? “I think cap rates will be remain
relatively static on quality stuff.”
Is there a metric of "proper debt to value (value based on assumed cap rate)?”
“As far as the proper debt to value, it depends to some extent on the Buyer. I think REITS typically leverage around 40% and pension funds may be around 60-65% while private guys tend to take on as much leverage as they can get including higher interest mezzanine (2nd position) financing. If I had to pick a proper range, I would say proper debt to value for private buyers is 65-75%.” "Also, most loans are based on LTV (loan to value). Value is typically determined by an appraisal (need $10MM appraisal to get $7.5M loan if 75% LTV). The appraisal typically looks at going in cap rate (income approach) but also looks at sale comps as well as discounted cash flow assuming a hold over some period and than a sale.
My point is that cap rate is just one of the parameters used to come up with value. Also, appraisals typically get to the value that Lender's want them to get to."
I asked if 75% LTV is still used by lenders. Response was, “Today, I would say more like 60-65%.”
Most of BAM debt appears to be IO. Any thoughts? Generic thoughts if not familiar with BAM? “I think the IO loans will be tough to replace with new I/O loans. Will likely need to amortize over 30 years from most of the term”
In your example would you define NOI?
”NOI being income less operating expenses (excluding cap ex,
dep, debt service, straight line of rents, etc). “
“As far as the straight line rent depends
on the Buyer. Straight line rent is basically average rent over the term of the
lease....so if tenant has 10-year lease with rent increase in year 6 than the
year 1 NOI is higher if you take the average rent as opposed to the actual year
1 rent. REITs looks at straight line.”
I asked, So quality cap rates have nevr been consistently greater than say 8%?
If rents go down, and vacancy rates go up? Brookfield in commercial has less
than 4% vacancy rates, and maybe costs go up (inflation). Maybe cap rates go up
to say 10%? Or never happen? Response was, “I have not
seen cap rates higher than say 8% on core properties but I imagine if debt
rates increased significantly cap rates would have to follow.”
If you had $1000 in NOI and assume a 6% cap rate. You would have value of $16,000? If you had $10,000 of debt and no cash, net value would be $6,000.
"Our net loss before taxes for the three months ended March 31, 2008, was $20 million, compared to income of $5 million for the same period in '07."
"And, lastly, the company entered into interest rate swap contracts during the period 2004 to 2007 totaling $260 million, which effectively fixed the rate on the company's floating-rate debt at 6.8%. And as a result of a further decline during this quarter in short-term interest rates, the fair value of these derivatives declined and the company recorded a mark-to-market loss of $9.3 million, compared to a loss of $0.7 million in the same period last year."
"In terms of cash flow, during the first quarter we used $32 million in our operations. However, given our inventory levels coming down, we are targeting at least $100 million in cash flow from operations in 2008 as we monetize this inventory."
"if we close 117 homes in the first quarter and our target is, say, 800 to 850, we've got 700 homes to close, as you say. If you say the average selling price is $550,000 or $600,000 -- let's say $600,000 -- that's $420 million of future receipts that we have coming in over the next nine months, right? And because -- like I said in my notes -- our inventory levels are elevated, and they continue to be elevated, but we are selling well, and if we achieve these 700 home closings of $400 million of revenue, we don't have a lot of cost to put in the ground because, quite frankly, a lot of these homes are built."
"Our relationship with Brookfield Asset Management is on the facility that we have -- the credit facility that we have with them, and we have drawn $18 million Since March 31."
At 4/30/08 it appears that BHS owes BAM $220M (3/31/08 of $208M + $18M funded per BHS).
At 12/31/07 the amount appears to be $90M. See Amended 10K/A Note 4.
Subsequent to December 31, 2007, the BAM facility was increased from $150 million to $250 million. (as of April 30 was at $220M)
The revolving credit facility with BAM requires BHS to maintain minimum stockholders’ equity of $300 million and a consolidated net debt to book capitalization ratio of no greater than 70%.
BPO Properties Conference Call 4/29/08
"In addition, we are pleased to report the declaration of a special common share dividend of $7.25 per share totaling approximately $207 million. The dividend will be funded from the Company's cash and deposits, which total approximately $270 million at the end of the quarter and will also be paid on June 30, 2008 to shareholders of record at the close of business June 2, 2008."
Q: "Just on that special dividend, should we assume that the parent will use the full proceeds to repay that portion of the loan?"
A: "Yes. It's safe to assume that we've included as part of BPO properties liquid cash, that deposit, plus our available cash balances so in order for us to fund the dividend we will be collecting on our deposit."
Q: "Just looking beyond this special dividend which we all applaud, it certainly seems that you will have substantial liquidity even after that is paid for the balance of the year, early '09. Was wondering if you could react to that and give us sense as to whether or not a follow on special dividend could be in the offering."
A: "We certainly have a variety of initiatives that could very well result in additional cash for the Company. As we achieve and complete those milestones they have have to evaluate the alternatives that are available to us at that time. That could be further developments, additional acquisitions, paying down debts, buying back shares and possibly further dividends. We have many choices. We will have to evaluate them as the opportunities and the cash is available."
BPO Properties declared a $207M dividend today. Brookfield Properties Corp (BPC), I think owns 89% of BPO Properties. I think the funding is coming from the demand note given to BPC by BPO in 4Q07 .
This was slightly discussed in the CC if I remember correctly. I do not recall Tom Farley specifically mentioning the demand note. Yet in BPO CC today, I think it was referred to. I am not certain of this, but fairly positive.
If I am not mistaken. BPO Properties limitted claims to have a demand note from Brookfield Properties for $200Million ish. I am fairly certain they BPO Properties is expecting payment of that money before dividend is due on June 30, 2008 for $207M.
I looked on Brookfield Properties 40F and saw no mention. Perhaps because of consolidation.
You see alot when you read the subsidiary's financials.
BPO was up big after this news. It had stopped trading for a bit prior.
"On the debt capital side, money remains the most challenging part of our business overall right now. Arranging a long-term fixed rate mortgage in a substantial amount is difficult. That would not be news to anybody on the call. It can be done but covenant requirements are less flexible and often basically you have to call on relationships to get it done. This isn't all bad for us and we have been refinancing our rolling loans as Bryan mentioned. We started the year with about $1 billion of loans rolling in 2008. The largest being $160 million. We've put about $300 million of these away and are confident that the rest can be concluded in short order. The LIBOR rate is down thanks to thorough money policy which is benefiting us at the moment. I think Bryan mentioned the interest rate savings that we've experienced as a result of this."
DBRS Comments on the BPO Properties Dividend
"DBRS commented today on the announcement by BPO Properties Ltd. (BPO) that it will pay a special dividend of $7.25 per BPO share or approximately $207 million on June 30, 2008. BPO’s major shareholder, Brookfield Properties Corporation (Brookfield), with an 89% equity interest, will receive approximately $184 million of the dividend, with minority shareholders receiving approximately $23 million. BPO will not distribute any cash to Brookfield since the dividend will be used by Brookfield to repay a portion of a demand loan of $220 million from BPO in late 2007.
The special dividend will result in BPO’s EBITDA on a pro forma basis being approximately 4% lower than previously expected for 2008, due to the lost income from the loan to Brookfield. As well, DBRS expects debt-to-gross book value to increase to about 51% by the end of 2008 from a previous estimate of 47% and EBITDA interest coverage to be just over 2.5 times from a previously estimated 2.7 times for 2008 (this includes the negative impact of capitalized interest from ongoing developments). These estimates include some additional debt to fund ongoing construction of Bay Adelaide Centre in Toronto and Bankers Court in Calgary.
Despite the modestly negative impact, DBRS notes that BPO remains reasonably leveraged relative to its peers and interest coverage levels are still strong, especially given continued solid fundamentals across its office portfolio, including high occupancy levels of 98.4% and positive same property net operating income growth of 8% year over year in Q1 2008."
Quick Review of BAM Investments Corp.
There balance sheet changed big time in year 2000. Total Assets went from $423M in 2006 to $2.2B in 2007. Note 10 discusses 50M preferred shares being issued, and then an entry called "Accumulated other comprehensive income" for $1.2B. This is identified as a "Transition Adjustment 1/1/07" for $1.376B
The "Investment of Brookfield Asset Management" went from $416M in 2006 to $2.15B in 2007. Leads you to Note 5. BAM Investment Corp has pledged 5.3M of their 60.8M Class A shares. The 5.3M are marked to market as they are called "Held for Trading." I might be getting this wrong, its late.
I would like to learn more about the debenture. Debenture pays out BAM dividends and a "specified amount."
Brookfield Investments Corp. Quick Review:
Brookfield Investments holds investments in the forest products and property sectors, as well as a portfolio of preferred shares issued by companies within the Brookfield Asset Management group.
The Company owns approximately 29.5 million common shares of Fraser Papers, which represents a 49% equity interest in Fraser Papers.
The Company owns approximately 96.1 million ordinary shares of Canary Wharf, representing a 15% interest in Canary Warf.
The Company owns approximately 18.6 million common shares Brookfield Properties, which represents a 5% equity interest in Brookfield Properties.
The Company’s preferred share portfolio consists of the following: 170 Series K preferred shares of BPO Properties Ltd. (“BPO Properties”); 350,000 Class A Series 14 preferred shares of Brookfield; 850,000 Class A Series 15 preferred shares of Brookfield; and 8,000,000 Class B shares of Great Lakes Holdings Inc. (“GLHI”).
The company owns a large interest in Norbord Inc.
Brookfield Power Inc Some notes from 12/31/07 Financials:
1.
On Note 23 "Shareholders Equity." I was able to trace all amounts in the
schedule except for "Contributed Surplus." The amounts for 2007 and 2006 were
$204 and $199 respectively.
2. BPI's guidance for Capex is $23M for 2008. Seems low. I need to trace back to
Great Lakes Hydro guidance and to BAM AR mentions.
3. Balance Sheet has $176M of assets that I think are being marked to market.
Just something to watch.
4. Derivatives need to be watched as time goes on.
5. BPI had an unrealized loss of $79M. Consider treating this as an unusual
event without punishing BPI. Conider the possibility of adjusting for
valuation purposes $19M reported net loss to NI of $164M. (-19+125 (interest to
parent) + 79 derivative loss - 21 tax benefit.
6. Some Metrics:
A. Long Term Debt to Equity Ratio
Total Assets $6,891
Total Equity $349
Total LTD $5,479
Assets / Equity is 19.71
LTD / Equity is 15.7X
B. Interest Coverage Ratio
Net Income Before Tax $(40)loss
Interest Expense $411
NIBT and Before IE 371
Interest Coverage Ratio (NIBT + Interest Expense)/Interest Expense
-40+411/411= 0.9X
Incidentally, on pg 321 of hardcover 1951 edition of Security Analysis, Benjamin Graham suggests a utility company have Interest Coverage of 4X or above. Hence, not in great shape there. Yet, isolating merely one metric.
In 2006 the coverage ratio was 1.31X.
C. Cash flow :
CFO 150
less capex 140
FCF 10
Using the same metrics as directly above, I have eliminated the $125M paid to BAM from Power (BRPI) for Interest on Capital Securities. Yet, lets remember that BRPI paid $125M in 2007 to BAM, yet recieved $200M from BAM in January 2008. For that $200M , BAM received more shares of a company (BRPI) which they wholly own.
A. Long Term Debt to Equity Ratio
Total Assets $6,891
Total Equity $349
Total LTD $5,479
Assets / Equity is 19.71
LTD / Equity is 15.7X
B. Interest Coverage Ratio
Net Income Before Tax $85M (-40+125)
Interest Expense $286
NIBT and Before IE 371
Interest Coverage Ratio (NIBT + Interest Expense)/Interest Expense
371/286= 1.3X
Incidentally, on pg 321 of hardcover 1951 edition of Security Analysis, Benjamin Graham suggests a utility company have Interest Coverage of 4X or above. Hence, we are not in great shape there. Yet, isolating merely one metric.
In 2006 the coverage ratio was 1.98X.
C. Cash flow :
CFO 150
add interest on cap securities 125
less capex 140
FCF 135
The above does not include debt repayments, dividends paid, acquisitions or Great lakes hydro distributions.
Also, Investments to Long Term Investments of $189M was primarily paid to a related party (Brascan Brazil).
7. Ben Graham in 3rd edition of Security Analysis suggests to also use a computation of "market cap to debt." If we assign market cap to BPI of $6.4B (CSFB 2/11/08) and debt is $4,376 without Capital securities due to BAM, or $5,479
with it. We get ratio of 1.46X and 1.17X respectively. If I am not mistaken, he liked to see a ratio of 2.3X to 2.7X for Utilities. He liked to see a margin of error. I will try and dive deeper at a later time. One should also use Stockholders Equity as opposed to Market Cap, which makes things more difficult for BPI valuation IMO.
8. Shareholders Equity is 5.1% of total assets. In 2006 percentage was healthier at 7.0%. both years, lots of leverage.
9. Book Value is $349M, yet Tangible Book is $316M. In 2006 BV was $409 annd Tangible Book was $382M.
10. Revenues of $904M included $12M of currency.
11. Graham identified on page 326 of SA 3rd edition that a "debt to tangible asset ratio" of 65%. BAM's ratio is 80% (55+2691+1630+1103)/(6891-33).
12. On page 317 of 3rd edition Graham indicated to include parent preferred debt in subsidiaries coverage and funding ratios.
13. As I have stated previously, I think that dam depreciation of 40 - 60 years is agressive. Hence, perhaps years should be 40 years. I have seen this discussed in regards to Hydro, and need to revisit. If i am not mistaken, Graham suggested 30 years for non hydro and 40 years for hydro.
14. Note 6 in Financials have quite a few related party transactions. These include recievables from Fraser, Katahdin, and long term investments.
15. Note 16 "property specific borrowings" show us that most of the payments on the debt of BPI is interest only.
16. I need to search purchase of Itiquira Energetica SA from NRG Energy Inc. Has this closed. Note claims expected to close 1Q08.
Updated Short thesis from March 16, 2008
BAM has quite a few Joint Ventures or minority interests. On projects they have co-investors. Both Co-Investor and BAM commit capital. I have always been trying to figure out (unsuccessfuly) what BAM's future committed capital requirements are, and the required timeline of such.
In this environment we have been hearing that JV's of Toll Brothers are failing to meet capital contribution requirements. IMO, that is something to watch for BAM.
1. We think they are over leveraged and that increased credit costs, costs of capital, lower loan to values, will start stressing BAM.
2. We think potential for credit downgrades.
3. Concerns with reliance on commercial paper markets for liquidity.
4. Incestual sales and potentially unusual uses of related parties. In relation to CRZ, it is an interesting concept of BAM getting paid via shares. Is it liquidity? What is the reason? Time will answer that.
BAM could in theory search for liquidity in CRZ. Any BAM subsidiary could find liquidity in a managed entities whose purpose is to invest in " opportunistic vehicles." For me, this is something to watch, especially as credit markets have frozen.
I kind of remember, but am not certain that CSFB and Scotia have partaken in material investment banking with BAM. Nothing wrong with that, just want to be careful that "independent research" is not blurred by a seperate financial arrangement. I kind of recall a former Scotia Analyst joining BAM recently, but can not find the news article.
5. Severe over-valuation of power division. How do you get a book value of $349M, Free Cash flow of $10M, operating at a net loss, into a valuation of $6.5B?
I disagree with several of the sell side interprestations of Power Division.
Scotia Capital present an NAV of Power at various ranges. The range is $12,246M on the high, $11,526 on Base, and $10,805 on the low.
I do not know if they include GLH as power or specialty funds.
BPI has debt of $4.321M not including capital securities payable to BAM of $1,103M.
Hence if you take NAV less Debt you get the following:
High value $7.9B
Base value $7.2B
Low value $6.4B
CSFB on their most recent report assigns a value of $6.4B including GLH. They base their valuation on 12x of 2007E OCF.
At the same time CSFB has a forward NAV of power of $8.4B, based on 12x of 2008E OCF.
6. Slowdown in Alberta CN real estate. (BPO)
7. High occupancy rates in metro areas, possibly deteriorating because of reliance on financial service industry as well as potentially unusually high.
8. Recent exotic financings. One would be 1 Liberty Plaza NYC.
I think the whole loan is $850M (350 + 500), 6.139% interest, Interest only till 7/2011 and then amorts over 360M, no prepayments until 4/2017 and maturity date is 8/2017. If I amortized correctly pay off balance on 8/2017 will be $777M.
Certainly BAM received a lot of dollars, and via near interest only, BAM certainly has the lowest maximum payment at 6.139% for 10 years (2017). Then they balloon.
9. Credit tightness.
10. Recession potential and pain on levered companies.
11. Stock price fueled by blind following of value investing community, who bought the idea and didn’t dig deep into financials. Perhaps that has ended and mass liquidation could occur. Are any covenants reliant on stock price?
12. Potential aggressive accounting procedures. Consideration that potential of over capitalization in past increased earnings, yet now they potentially use the crutch of depreciation on those previous capital expenditures not being considered in valuation.
13. $4B of debt coming due in 2008. Can they manage to refinance. Again, this is where excess leverage can become painful.
14. Reminds me of Enron with all their spin-offs and shuffling of assets. Not so sure institutional investors will embrace for continuing investments.
15. Integration concerns of multiplex. CEO UK already left.
16. Is BAM the glib helper and also a member of Buffett's Gotrocks family?
Buffett recently discussed fantasy returns of equities when projected in excess of 10%. CRZ in November 2007 presentation projects blended returns at 16 - 18%. CRZ being fixed income, and I imagine Buffett would think a fixed income allocation of 100% would command even lower returns. Of course the answer is leverage for CRZ. Leverage as we see via CRZ margin calls, works in both directions.
http://www.berkshirehathaway.com/letters/2007ltr.pdf
" I should mention that people who expect to earn 10% annually from equities during this century – envisioning that 2% of that will come from dividends and 8% from price appreciation – are implicitly forecasting a level of about 24,000,000 on the Dow by 2100. If your adviser talks to you about doubledigit returns from equities, explain this math to him – not that it will faze him. Many helpers are apparently direct descendants of the queen in Alice in Wonderland, who said: “Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.” Beware the glib helper who fills your head with fantasies while he fills his pockets with fees."
Here are
notes I took in regards to Berkshire Power Subsidiaries.
The filings of MEHC and
MEHCo and subs are not as simple as Berkshires.
Two, even might Berkshire has been affected by credit crisis. They have an
amount of existing Auction Market Securities, and granted they are buying more
as we speak. Nothing bad, just noting.
Here are some quick snips I took note of during my very quick review.
A. Long Term Debt to Equity Ratio
Total Assets
$7,251
Total Equity $2,288
Total LTD $2,470
Assets / Equity is 3.17X
LTD / Equity is 1.08X
B. Interest Coverage Ratio
Net Income Before
Tax $456
Interest Expense $131
NIBT and Before IE $587
Interest Coverage Ratio (NIBT + Interest Expense)/Interest Expense
456+131/131 = 4.4X
Incidentally, on pg 321 of hardcover 1951 edition of Security Analysis, Benjamin
Graham suggests a utility company have Interest Coverage of 4X or above. Hence,
we are in good shape there. Yet, isolating merely one metric.
In 2006 and 2005 the coverage ratio was 4.66X and 4.78X respectively.
C. Cash Flows:
If you subtract
Capex from Net cash Provided by Operations you get the following.
CFO 599
less: Capex 1,298
FCF (699). We have seen free cash flow as a negative during the last 3 years.
They explain the use of funds is going through an expansion, "MidAmerican
Energy’s primary need for capital is utility construction expenditures, which
totaled $1,220 million for 2007. MidAmerican Energy’s utility construction
expenditures for 2008, excluding the non-cash allowance for equity funds used
during construction, are estimated to be approximately $1,141 million, which
includes $645 million for the wind-powered generation projects discussed below,
$90 million for emissions control equipment to address current and anticipated
air quality regulations, and $406 million for ongoing operational projects,
including asset replacements, connections for new customers and facilities to
accommodate load growth. Capital expenditure needs are reviewed regularly by
management and may change significantly as a result of such reviews. MidAmerican
Energy expects to meet these capital expenditures with cash flows from
operations and the issuance of long-term debt. "
"As of January 31, 2008, MidAmerican Energy’s senior unsecured debt credit
ratings were as follows: Fitch Ratings, “A/stable;” Moody’s Investor Service,
“A2/stable;” and Standard and Poor’s, “A-/stable.”
Financials are available for Pacificorp. pacificorp consolidates into MEHC.
Here are some quick snips I took note of during my very quick review.
A. Long Term Debt to Equity Ratio
Total Assets
$14,907
Total Equity $5,080
Total LTD $4,753.
Assets / Equity is 2.93X
LTD / Equity is 0.94X
B. Interest Coverage Ratio
Net Income Before
Tax $659
Interest Expense $314
NIBT and Before IE $973
Interest Coverage Ratio (NIBT + Interest Expense)/Interest Expense
659+314/314 = 3.10X
In 2006 and 2005 the coverage ratio was 2.15X and 3.0X respectively. Let's see
if better coverage ratio is a trend or not.
C. Cash Flows:
If you subtract
Capex from Net cash Provided by Operations you get the following.
CFO 824
less: Capex 1,519
FCF (695). We have seen free cash flow as a negative during the last 3 years.
lets wait and see if the expansion program and stable parent leads to growth of
cash flow as years go by
7. Ben Graham in 3rd edition of Security Analysis suggests to also use a
computation of "market cap to debt." If we assign market cap to BPI of $6.4B (CSFB
2/11/08) and debt is $4,376 without Capital securities due to BAM, or $5,479
with it. We get ratio of 1.46X and 1.17X respectively. If I am not mistaken, he
liked to see a ratio of 2.3X to 2.7X
for Utilities. He liked to see a margin of error. I will try and dive deeper at
a later time. One should also use Stockholders Equity as opposed to Market
Cap, which makes things more difficult for BPI valuation IMO.
8. Shareholders Equity is 5.1% of total assets. In 2006 percentage was healthier
at 7.0%. both years, lots of leverage.
9. Book Value is $349M, yet Tangible Book is $316M. In 2006 BV was $409 annd
Tangible Book was $382M.
10. Revenues of $904M included $12M of currency.
11. Graham identified on page 326 of SA 3rd edition that a "debt to tangible
asset ratio" of 65%. BAM's ratio is 80%
(55+2691+1630+1103)/(6891-33).
12. On page 317 of 3rd edition Graham indicated to include parent preferred debt
in subsidiaries coverage and funding ratios.
13. As I have stated previously, I think that dam depreciation of 40 - 60 years
is agressive. Hence, perhaps years should be 40 years. I have seen this
discussed in regards to Hydro, and need to revisit. If i am not mistaken,
Graham suggested 30 years for non hydro and 40 years for hydro.
14. Note 6 in Financials have quite a few related party transactions. These
include recievables from Fraser, Katahdin, and long term investments.
15. Note 16 "property specific borrowings" show us that most of the payments on
the debt of BPI is interest only.
16. I need to search purchase of Itiquira Energetica SA from NRG Energy Inc. Has
this closed. Note claims expected to close 1Q08.
17. Hydrology conditions improved in January 2008. Flatt told SU students that
Hydrology in North East is now excellent.
Various Brookfield Asset Management Ratios I worked on:
A. Times Interest Earned (Interest Coverage Ratio) - This evaluates the ability of a company to meet required interest payments.
Times Interest Earned = pretax income + total interest expense / total interest expense.
We like to see interest coverage at > 4 (or 25% on the inverse). We consider 6 (or inverse 16.67%) as a conservative number.
Net Income 787
Interest Expense 1786
(NI + IE ) / IE
(787+1786)/1786
Interest Coverage = 1.44X
Last year the coverage was 1.99X
B. Debt to Net Income Ratio
Simple formula to determine years it will take to pay debt is discussed on page 445 of Graham's Security Analysis (5th edition).
Total debt / net income
total debt 32,725
total net income 787
41.58X
C. BAM Debt to Equity - David Dreman feels that debt should be less than 20% of Equity.
total debt 32,725
debt to equity % 435%
Flatt spoke recently at Syracuse University Marty Whitman Day:
notes... quotes might not be exact, but fairly close.
ahh, havent seen a SU speaker since Alexander Haig spoke at my SU graduation.
He is an excellent speaker. I have seen him quite a few times.
Brookfield has an 85-employeee office in Liverpool that oversees its more than 70 power plants throughout the Northeast, including a cogeneration plant in East Syracuse. "All of Northeast power operations are run out of Syracuse."
"things extremely negative this past month." "Greatest in my lifetime, maybe Marty's"
"we have 25 buildings under construction in Dubai."
"credit conditions worst we have seen in post war."
"world gdp growth is extremely strong."
hydro conditions are excellent in north east. lots of snow and rain.
"company's must see the other side of a liquidity problem when buying assets." "Properly leveraged quality assets on appreciable assets"
"prudently finance your assets." "Companies often misfinance their portfolios."
"When we buy assets we use long term financing at prudent levels and investment grade. It lowers risk and ensures where we never get caught refinancing their assets. Companies are learning the hard way about leverage. "Must not avoid the rule of prudent borrowing. Even the best assets are worthless if you can't hold them to see another day."
"invest against the common trend."
says dont go into short term mortgages, or short term solutions. consequences could be difficult.
Purchased 245 park ave for $250 sq foot or $500M in 1995. property now worth $2B. havent purhcased a property in NYC in 2 years because prices are high.
In early 2000's power business went through distress. bought 60 facilities for $900M and now are probably worth double that. Believe we are compounding strong returns and cash flows keep rising.
"don't be all things to all people."
"hydro asset with barriers of entry, low cost provider and has an advantage over other means."
"likes share repurchases. likes it better than buying assets, since they know their value."
'largest independent owner of hydro plants in the world."
"wind facilities more economic every day, especially with oil at $100. I think $70 - $100 oil is here to stay."
ethanol is the future, especially via sugar cane, which is efficient. Probably 10 years out." BAM owns sugar fields in Brazil.
"if you dont understand something dont invest in them . if you cant understand them, dont hire them."
believes will have substantial upside in next 5 years or so in hydro because of carbon factor.
very good speech. any bam investor should watch.
Brookfield Properties Inc Ric Clark spoke at CSFB 9-Apr-08 - BPO said the following:
"setting aside New York City for a minute, so far, everything that we're seeing, the markets are fine. We have seen, in our experience, no meaningful negative pressure on rental rates; no meaningful reduction inactivity"
"no major change in deal economics."
"activity, I'd say, in the financial services market, specifically New York City, is way down. I think we had a very active fourth quarter of last year. The first quarter this year, we're still tallying the results, but activity, both within the portfolio and throughout the New York City market is very meaningfully down. We'll probably even see market vacancies creep up just a little bit."
"Financial services firms, it's no secret -- lots of layoffs. That's sort of the bad news. They're not in the market -- growing, also bad news, but so far we've seen no signs of financial services firms putting sublease space on the market, except for one or two small exceptions. And believe it or not, we continue to have consolidation discussions with some financial services firms regarding our potential new developments."
"On the capital market side, borrowing money is -- to use a real estate term of ours, is just a major bummer right now. We have probably $1 billion worth of debt rolling throughout the year, also in small loans, $50 million here, $100 million there, $25 million over there. And just the amount of effort that we put into refinancing these little loans are major. You generally have to pull on relationships to get things done. Banks are not really in the market of loaning on a fixed-rate basis. We are talking to insurance companies basically to provide fixed-rate product.
Spreads seemed to have widened to about 300 basis points over treasury, give or take. And obviously, covenant-like kind of transactions are gone. Lenders are looking for real covenants, not negotiating much off their foreign documents. And a novel idea, looking for really sort of good old-fashioned standard debt service coverage ratios and leverage levels probably around 55% or 60%.
So, it's not fun right now borrowing money. The good news for us is if you're a big organization with a good track record and a good balance sheet, you can actually get it done. And we are getting it done, but it's not fun."
"On the valuation side, in our properties and actually throughout the market, we're seeing that cash flows are generally up in most properties. Buyer's expectations, though, have gone down as far as valuations and cap rates have gone up, in our case. When we're looking to invest money, we probably raised our cap rate expectations by 200 basis points. There's a disconnect still between seller's expectations and buyer's expectations. We expect at some point as the year progresses to see some narrowing of that gap. At the moment, there's really no data points, there's not a whole lot of assets trading hands, but we think that there are enough of the high leverage buyers of the past who are based with debt maturities that they'll have to start to
move real estate. And we may well see sort of a narrowing of the gap."
Asked about how $1B in refinancing this year is going.
"Well, as far as -- so, the $1 billion has long sort of scattered throughout the year, I think the biggest one is $150 million, which matures in about 60 days. We're -- we've been working on that and hoped to button that down in the next few weeks. We'll get all this done. Some of them, we'll have to do on a variable rate basis, just because we won't like the terms of a fixed rate debt, which -- we run with very little variable rate exposure, so we're comfortable doing that until the market clears up a bit."
Tom Farley, Prez & COO of Brookfield Properties said the following on 4/2/08.
"We are seeing strength in every single market in Canada. Ottawa is a great market. We think it is running at a 4% vacancy rate. Toronto, as I mentioned, downtown is sub 4. Now when I say downtown, that is College and South. It is phenomenal. Downtown Toronto in the financial core, you look at the top nine buildings and there is 1.7% vacancy. So that equates to about 180,000 square feet of available space. A year ago that was close to 600,000, so there is not a lot of space here.
Calgary, I'm very bullish in Calgary. In the long run we are going to see new product delivered to the market over the next six years. But I think the fundamentals will continue to be very good there and it will be consistently strong.
Vancouver has very low vacancy rate; it is at 3%. There is only one small project coming onto the market, and that is another great market. The frustrating thing for us to buy in Canada is in our segment of the market, there is about seven entities that control the ownership of all of the top-end office buildings. It's ourselves and six pension funds. So we don't see a lot of acquisition
opportunities where we have to focus on. Growth is organic through rising rents and through our development projects."
"Well, there is still available debt. Obviously, the conditions and terms are a little more onerous from a borrower's perspective than where they were six months ago."
"Well, we may want to come to the markets for a couple of things, though I hope it gets better. But no, there is certainly a pullback. And we have been successful in a couple of debt facilities that we put together, but there is fewer players. There is more onerous terms."
Crains article Large firms start to dump office space 20-Mar-08
http://www.crainsnewyork.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080316/FREE/510404333/1008
“As the economy cools, tenants are starting to shed Manhattan office space—a development that could lead to lower rents and signify the end of the robust leasing market that landlords have enjoyed over the past few years.”
“The amount of space represents only a fraction of the 350 million-square-foot market. But the activity is causing a stir in real estate circles, because some fear that what is now a trickle could turn into a flood. Ominous indicators of a possible recession—such as imploding hedge funds, faltering investment banks and wild stock market gyrations—lead some to believe that increasing amounts of space will hit the market in coming months.”
“A decline in rents would fly in the face of the conventional wisdom that a lack of inventory in the real estate market will enable landlords to keep lease prices steady.
The supply-and-demand ratio still favors landlords, so rents remain high. But that could change as more space comes on the market.”
“Another factor adding inventory to the market is the completion of new buildings. Goldman Sachs is preparing to sublease about 500,000 square feet at 77 Water St. that it won't need when it moves into its new world headquarters next year. Bank of America is expected to shed a significant portion of the roughly 500,000 square feet it has at 114 W. 47th St. once its new tower opens.”
“However, New York remains a landlord's market. The vacancy rate in February was 5.8%. A lack of space drove rents up 29% in the 12 months ended in February, to an average of $66.95 a square foot in Manhattan, according to Cushman & Wakefield Inc. And leasing activity remains brisk.
Experts say there is a balance between supply and demand when the vacancy rate is 8%. To spur a surge of sublease space, experts say, companies would have to eliminate about 40,000 jobs. In the 2001-02 recession, about 187,000 jobs were lost in Manhattan.
Some brokers are speculating that the market is already slipping. Deals take months to close; some of the recent leases now being reported actually originated last year. Financial firms, which account for one-third of the leases in Manhattan and which have been driving up rents, are beginning to relinquish space as the economy weakens. Some brokers say that their phones are ringing less often, and that tenants are skittish about committing to space.”
“SLIMMING DOWN
Companies are unloading hundreds of thousands of square feet of office space on the Manhattan market (all square footage numbers are approximate).
GOLDMAN SACHS 500,000 square feet at 77 Water St.
CITIGROUP 140,000 square feet at Citigroup Center, 153. E. 53rd St.
100,000 square feet at 399 Park Ave.
NOMURA HOLDING AMERICA 110,000 square feet at 2 World Trade Center
iSTAR FINANCIAL 110,000 square feet at 1095 Sixth Ave.
BEAR STEARNS 70,000 square feet at 230 Park Ave.”
Seth Klarman said the following in OID in its February 29, 2008 issue:
"Commercial Mortgages and securitizations wil certainly experience their share of difficulties now that financing spreads have widened ,property prices have stalled out and vacancies in certain asset classes are starting to rise."
"Higher borrowing costs, tighter lending standards, and more cautious investor behavior could further slow economic activity, with a resultant fall in security prices."
Crystal River has Brookfield Asset Management credit facility ammended on March 7, 2008
I wonder if this relates to the margin calls, payment of fees to BAM in stock, etc. Would like to find the covenants on this.
"In August 2007, we entered into a $100.0 million unsecured 364-day credit facility with Brookfield US Corporation, an affiliate of our Manager. Indebtedness outstanding under the unsecured credit facility bore interest at LIBOR + 4.00%. In November 2007, we and Brookfield US Corporation amended the terms of the facility, effective as of September 30, 2007, to convert the facility to a secured revolving credit facility that provides for borrowings of up to $100.0 million in the aggregate and expires in May 2009. On March 7, 2008, we and Brookfield US Corporation amended the terms of the facility, effective as of December 31, 2007, to extend the term of the facility from November 2008 to May 2009, to revise the financial covenant relating to minimum net worth and to eliminate the financial covenants relating to minimum net income (as defined in the facility), a maximum leverage ratio and interest rate sensitivity. The secured facility bears interest at LIBOR + 2.50%. The credit facility and the amendments were approved by the independent members of our board of directors. As of December 31, 2007, we owed $67.3 million under this facility."
BHS issues a 10K/A for 2007 12-Mar-08
"We are filing this Form 10-K/A to report the following corrections to clerical errors contained in the Form 10-K: (1) Part II, Item 8, “Note 2. Housing and Land Inventory” has been amended to report the correct acres of longer term land of 6,067, the correct non-refundable deposits and other entitlements costs of $9.1 million, and the correct aggregate exercise price of $194.9 million;"
On the original 10K, they had 1,012 acres of land and other entitlement costs of $4.0M, exercise price of $76M.
"(2) Part II, Item 8, “Note 3. Investments in Housing and Land Joint Ventures” has been amended to report the correct limited maintenance guarantees of $76.1 million in 2007 and $89.4 million in 2006;"
In the original 10K, this was written, “The Company and/or its joint venture partners have provided varying levels of guarantees of debt in its joint ventures. At December 31, 2007, the Company had recourse guarantees of $8.5 million (2006 — $12.7 million) and limited maintenance guarantees of $12.0 million (2006 — $12.7 million) with respect to debt in its joint ventures. As of December 31, 2007, the fair market value of the recourse guarantees was insignificant.”
Now it reads in the 10K/A, “The Company and/or its joint venture partners have provided varying levels of guarantees of debt in its joint ventures. At December 31, 2007, the Company had recourse guarantees of $8.5 million (2006 — $12.7 million) and limited maintenance guarantees of $76.1 million (2006 — $89.4 million) with respect to debt in its joint ventures. As of December 31, 2007, the fair market value of the recourse guarantees was insignificant.”
"(3) Part II, Item 8, “Note 11. Commitments, Contingent Liabilities and Other (e)” has been amended to report the correct rental expense of $4.5 million for 2007 and $3.8 million in 2006 and to report the correct future minimum rent payments under operating leases of $3.7 million for 2008, $2.3 million for 2009, $1.2 million for 2010, $0.4 million for 2011 and $0.4 million thereafter.”
In the original 10K, this was written, “(e) The Company leases certain facilities under non-cancelable operating leases. Rental expense incurred by the Company amounted to $2.5 million for 2007 (2006 — $2.1 million). At December 31, 2007, future minimum rent payments under these operating leases were $1.8 million for 2008, $0.4 million for 2009, and $0.2 million for 2010.”
Now it reads in the 10K/A, “(e) The Company leases certain facilities under non-cancelable operating leases. Rental expense incurred by the Company amounted to $4.5 million for 2007 (2006 — $3.8 million). At December 31, 2007, future minimum rent payments under these operating leases were $3.7 million for 2008, $2.3 million for 2009, $1.2 million for 2010, $0.4 million for 2011 and $0.4 million thereafter.”
May 5, 2008
Brookfield Power and Emera entered a joint venture. Here are some items I collected in relation to Emera and their Annual report from 2007.
http://www.snl.com/Cache/5892166.PDF?FID=5892166&O=PDF&T=&Y=&D=&IID=4072693&OSID=9
"Our investment in the pumped storage hydro-electric facility Bear Swamp also resulted in a strong year. Earnings before interest and taxes were $24.6 million compared with $1.4 million a year earlier. These earnings include $15.7 million in mark-to-market accounting gains. The new capacity agreement with the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) fulfilled the Company’s goal of securing a long-term contract for a significant portion of its output. Bear Swamp will provide LIPA with 345 MW of capacity until 2010 and 100 MW for the rest of the 14-year term. Bear Swamp will also provide LIPA with 12,000 MWH of peak energy a week at an escalating fixed price. This represents approximately 35% of Bear Swamp’s available energy. The introduction of the Forward Capacity Market in New England provides further opportunities for Bear Swamp."
"Bear Swamp, a 50/50 joint venture in a 600 megawatt pumped storage hydro-electric facility in northern Massachusetts."
"Bear Swamp - As part of its long-term energy and capacity supply agreement with the Long Island Power Authority (“LIPA”), Bear Swamp has contracted with its parents, Emera and Brookfield Power Corporation (“Brookfield”), to provide the power necessary to produce the
requirements of the LIPA contract. A contract with Brookfield is marked-to-market through earnings as it does not meet the stringent accounting requirements of hedge accounting. As at December 31, 2007, the fair value of the net derivative asset was $14.8 million (2006–$nil), is subject to market volatility of power prices, and will reverse over the life of the derivative, which expires in 2021. The mark-to-market adjustment to Q4 2007 earnings was a gain of $5.9 million ($3.5 million after-tax) and to Q4 2006 was nil. For the year ended December 31, 2007, the mark-to-market adjustment to earnings was a gain of $15.7 million ($9.4 million after-tax) and
for 2006 was nil."
Operat ional:
Bear Swamp EBIT – operational increased quarter over quarter to $3.6 million in Q4 2007 compared to $(0.8) million in Q4 2006;
and to $8.9 million in 2007 compared to $1.4 million in 2006 and $4.2 million in 2005. In 2005 Bear Swamp’s margins were strong, because peak prices rose as a result of the impact of an active hurricane season. During 2006, margins were weaker than 2005 due to milder weather patterns. A hedging program was implemented in 2006 to provide more consistent margins and resulted in a markto- market loss, which reversed in 2007.
During Q1 2007, Bear Swamp finalized a long-term agreement with the Long Island Power Authority, providing LIPA with 345 MW of capacity to May 31, 2010 (approximately 55% of Bear Swamp’s total capacity); and 100 MW thereafter, to April 30, 2021. In addition, Bear Swamp will provide LIPA with 12,200 MWh of super-peak and peak energy weekly (approximately 35% of the plant’s available energy) at a fixed price, with an annual increase, over the 15 year term of the agreement. Bear Swamp has contracted with its parent companies, Emera and Brookfield, for the power supply necessary to produce the requirements of the LIPA agreement.
As mentioned above, Bear Swamp has contracted with its parents, Emera and Brookfield, to provide the power necessary to produce the requirements of the LIPA contract. A certain contract with Brookfield is marked-to-market through earnings as it does not meet the stringent accounting requirements of hedge accounting. As at December 31, 2007, the fair value of the derivative asset was $14.8 million (2006 – nil), is subject to market volatility of power prices, and will reverse over the life of the derivative, which expires in 2021. The effect on 2007 net earnings was an increase of $9.4 million after-tax. Absent this mark-to-market adjustment, Emera’s earnings per share would have been $1.28.
Debt Management:
During Q2 2007, Bear Swamp completed a $125 million USD financing using a senior secured non-revolving credit facility. The fiveyear credit facility bears interest at a LIBOR-based facility rate, is secured by the assets of Bear Swamp, and is due in May 2012. Proceeds of the financing were distributed equally to Emera and Brookfield Power. Emera has established the following credit facilities outside its regulated electric utilities:
Short-term Maximum millions of dollars Maturity amount Operating and acquisition credit facility 1 Year Revolving $ 600.0
The ratings issued by Dominion Bond Rating Service, Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s Investor Services are unchanged.
In October 2005, Moody’s rating agency revised Emera and NSPI’s rating outlooks to negative from stable, citing Nova Scotia Power fuel cost recovery concerns and regulatory uncertainty. In December 2007 Moody’s stated that NSPI’s ability to achieve a negotiated settlement in respect of its 2007 rate case and the progress toward implementation of a FAM are positive developments. In the event that during 2008 NSPI is able to demonstrate progress toward the satisfaction of the UARB’s FAM conditions, then all else being equal, Moody’s expects that the negative outlook of Emera and NSPI could be stabilized.
Emera has the following available credit ratings:
Long-term corporate
DBRS - BBB (high)
S&P - BBB
Moody’s - Baa2
On a consolidated basis, Emera’s target percentage of debt to total capitalization is 50%–55%, of which 10%–25% would be exposed to short-term rates. The company manages long-term debt terms such that the average is not less than ten years.
Bear Swamp (issued and payable in USD) Senior non-revolving credit facility secured by the assets of Bear Swamp 5.63 – 2012 61.7
Acquisition of 50% of Accor Brazil Ticket Services from Brookfield Asset Management.
The following was collected from Accor Brazil annual report.
“At the beginning of December 2006, Accor acquired from Brookfield Asset Management Inc., and Espirito Santo Resources, Ltd., the two companies’ combined 50% stake in Brazil’s Ticket Serviços for €197 million. Jointly held by Accor (50%), Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (40%) and Espirito Santo Resources, Ltd. (10%), Ticket Serviçios manages service vouchers and hotels in Brazil under Accor brands and food catering services under a local brand. Once the transaction has been completed, Accor will hold a 100% stake in the company’s service vouchers and hotel operations and a 50% stake in its food services operations, with Compass owning the other 50%. The business combination was accounted for by the purchase method, leading to the recognition of goodwill for €163 million. Ticket Serviçios reported 2006 revenue of €365 million and net profit of €24.4 million.”
Tricap:
From BAM 2007 Annual Report:
“Two principal investments in Tricap I are Western Forest Products and Concert Industries. Western Forest Products experienced a difficult year due in part to a major industry strike which has since been resolved. Concert Industries, a leading producer of air-laid woven fabric, continues to perform well and we continue to make progress expanding its revenue and operating base.”
"Our specialty funds’ revenues increased due to the consolidation of revenues from Western Forest Products and Concert Industries and increased yields from loans issued during the year. Similarly, investment income and other includes revenues from operations consolidated during 2007 that were accounted for on the equity method during 2006."
From Western Forest 1Q08 News Release:
http://www.westernforest.com/domans/download/Q1%202008.pdf
“Two principal
investments in Tricap I are Western Forest Products and Concert Industries.
Western Forest Products experienced a difficult year due in part to a major
industry strike which has since been resolved. Concert Industries, a leading
producer of air-laid woven fabric, continues to perform well and we continue to
make progress expanding its revenue and operating base.”
"Our specialty funds’ revenues increased due to the consolidation of revenues
from Western Forest Products and Concert Industries and increased yields from
loans issued during the year. Similarly, investment income and other includes
revenues from operations consolidated during 2007 that were accounted for on the
equity method during 2006."
"Tricap Management Limited (“Tricap”) owns 49% of the Company’s Common Shares and 100% of the Non-Voting Shares.
As of May 7, 2008, there were 119,842,359 Common Shares and 84,571,206 Non-Voting Shares issued and outstanding.
In addition, the Company has 569,373 Tranche 1 Class C Warrants, 854,146 Tranche 2 Class C Warrants, and 1,423,743 Tranche 3 Class C Warrants (collectively, the “Class C Warrants”) outstanding. The Company has reserved up to 2,847,262 Common Shares for issuance upon the exercise of the Class C Warrants. Western has also reserved 10,000,000 Common Shares for issuance upon the exercise of options granted under the Company’s incentive stock option plan. In March 2008, 275,000 options were cancelled. As of May 7, 2008, 3,958,060 options were outstanding under the Company’s incentive stock option plan."
http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/investing-and-markets/article.html?in_article_id=441334&in_page_id=3
Article mentioned 20,000 UK jobs will be lost over next 3 years. “"London will lose nearly 20,000 financial services jobs over the next three years, a report predicts today. The City will bear the brunt, with 10,000 jobs set to be axed, while another 9000 will go in Tower Hamlets - home to Canary Wharf - and Westminster, which hosts scores of hedge funds in Mayfair and St James's as well as thousands of media and marketing firms, lawyers and corporate headquarters."
March 7, 2008 Crystal River Reports and CC notes (28.51)
Ronald Redfield - Redfield, Blonsky & Co. - Analyst
Would you elaborate as much as possible about your partnership with the manager of Brookfield Asset Management? Also, would you discuss if there's any cross-pollinization, if you invest in any of their debts or their deals, if you fund any of their ongoing efforts, refinancings and so forth? And if you do, what is your allocation or total dollar value in percent of your assets that are related to Brookfield Asset Management?
Clifford Lai - Crystal River Capital, Inc. - President and CEO
Sure. This is Cliff. Brookfield Asset Management has been a great sponsor for us. They show us a lot of deal flow information, have supplied us with a secured bank facility. So the current assets that are on the books that are attributable to their, quote, deal flow generally is we have an investment in what's called the Brookfield Real Estate Investment Fund, which is a B note and
mezz loan fund. It's about $37 million or so on the books. It consists of primarily B notes and mezz loans; that's pretty well funded up.
The Triple Net Properties that we have on the books, which is somewhere around $230 million or $240 million, all came from Brookfield. We've had other assets on the books from time to time that we have originated with them. So there's a fair amount of activity going on between the companies. I would say, from an allocation point of view, I think the good thing about rookfield
Asset Management generally is that Bruce Flatt there has really kind of identified which parts of his companies, which parts of his investment pools get which types of assets. So, for example, Brookfield Properties, big Class A office properties in 24/7 types cities are kind of -- that's where a lot of those assets go. Crystal River is the designated Triple Net-type target for Brookfield Asset Management, and we're able to participate in some of the Brookfield-sponsored funds, to the extent that they make sense for us. Now, I will say that because there is that affiliate
relationship there, that all of the affiliate transactions go through the independent Board of Directors and are valued that. So everything is pretty much done on an arm's-length sort of basis.
Ronald Redfield - Redfield, Blonsky & Co. - Analyst
Can you say if you -- do you disclose that? I haven't seen it. Just like what percentage of your fundings, let's say, in the fourth quarter, or actually in the second half of 2007, were related to Brookfield Asset Management-related and -owned-type situations?
Clifford Lai - Crystal River Capital, Inc. - President and CEO
The only investment we made, which was sourced jointly with Brookfield and ourselves, in the second half of the year – and I'm just going off the top of my head here -- was a Triple Net property that we purchased down in Texas for $26 million.
Ronald Redfield - Redfield, Blonsky & Co. - Analyst
And if in theory, and this is purely in theory, I guess that they could always rely on you as some type of liquidity arm for Brookfield Asset Management, if one were to look at things skeptically. Is that correct?
Clifford Lai - Crystal River Capital, Inc. - President and CEO
I wouldn't say rely at all. Again, we're an independent company, so we have looked -- I would say we have looked at more than what we have originated with them. So they've shown us a lot more product than what we've actually taken, either because it didn't fit our profile, didn't like it, a number of reasons.
Ronald Redfield - Redfield, Blonsky & Co. - Analyst
For the 2008 dividend, do you have any liquidity concerns because of REIT requirements to distribute dividends and so forth, and what your thought are on the dividend going forward in 2008?
Clifford Lai - Crystal River Capital, Inc. - President and CEO
Yes. We don't and have not in the past, don't comment on dividends going forward. But I will tell you that the Board does take into account a number of factors. But we do understand that it is an important element to the shareholders of the Company, and generally, it is our goal to continue to maintain a stable and predictable dividend. Having said that, like I said in my prepared comments, there are a number of things that are working for and against the dividend,
for being lower financing costs generally in our book, so lower interest rates on LIBOR helps, generally. That will potentially offset some of the negative earnings pressure that we may get from -- to the extent we have to deleverage the balance sheet and/or mature some of the higher-yielding investments that we made in the portfolio that are starting to mature. So those are
all the factors that are coming in.
Ronald Redfield - Redfield, Blonsky & Co. - Analyst
But no comment on the -- I guess, in one sense, you could, if you have net income and you are required to pay it out, yet at the same time, if you had liquidity concerns for the margin calls, if they continued over the midterm and so forth, I guess you have a situation there where it required distribution of dividend, yet liquidity doesn't allow for such.
Clifford Lai - Crystal River Capital, Inc. - President and CEO
Right. And again, I think with respect to our liquidity, we're comfortable where we are at right now. We continue to make moves around the portfolio to manage that liquidity. We've got marketable securities, we've got credit lines unpledged, collateral, cash, things like that.
Ronald Redfield - Redfield, Blonsky & Co. - Analyst
I guess what I'm getting at is it's tough enough in your industry right now with just general market liquidity concerns. Add to that requirements of distributing dividends, that compounds it. Is that accurate or no? Am I missing it?
Clifford Lai - Crystal River Capital, Inc. - President and CEO
That's all part of the balancing act that's going on in the industry, yes.
“The net loss for the quarter ended December 31, 2007 totaled $250.4 million, or $10.10 per share.”
“Due to the general widening of yield spreads and the resulting market value adjustments to the carrying value of the Company’s available for sale securities, GAAP common equity book value per share declined to $4.48 at December 31, 2007 from $12.29 at September 30, 2007.”
“The net loss for the year ended December 31, 2007 totaled $345.9 million, or $13.86 per share, compared to net income of $46.9 million, or $2.27 per share, for the year ended December 31, 2006.”
“Starting in the second half of 2007, managing liquidity became – and continues to be – our main priority.”
“As asset
values declined, margin calls and lower loan amounts placed demands on the
Company’s cash and other liquidity sources.”
Word on the street is if you ask the margin broker to extend margin, you should
use the term "pretty please." (my notes)
“While it was our intention to capitalize on a stock that we felt was trading below our enterprise value, we had to balance the repurchase with increased demands on liquidity from our short-term collateralized borrowings. To date, we have purchased 299,300 shares, and, while we agree that a stock repurchase program continues to be attractive, we also believe that it is important for us to preserve cash in light of the volatile financing markets.”
Assorted Notes:
1. AAA Vacancy Rates in NYC
http://www.observer.com/2008/stat-day-more-vacancies-manhattans-top-towers
“The vacancy rate for Manhattan's top-flight, Class A office towers increased
for the second month in a row in February, according a report this week from
brokerage Colliers ABR. The rate was up 5.8 percent from 5.6 percent in January.
In midtown, specifically--where most of these Class A towers loom--the vacancy
rate was up as well, from 6.2 percent in January to 6.4 percent last month.”
2. NY Observer writes that Wall Street Journal will be moving from
Brookfield’s World Financial Center. “Rupert Murdoch is planning to move his
newly acquired Wall Street Journal to his News Corp. headquarters at 1211 Avenue
of the Americas, plucking the broadsheet's newsroom from its home at Brookfield
Properties' World Financial Center in Battery Park City. The Observer first
reported the news on its media blog on Monday.
At first glance, at least, the act seems to speak more to Mr. Murdoch's desire
to keep his offices close to those of his new prize than it does to any real
estate trends in Lower Manhattan.”
March 3, 2008 Third Ave Real Estate Value Fund (29.56)
Run by Michael Winer has reduced holdings of BAM by 371,225 as of January 31, 2008. This may or may not have been reported on the 12/31 Form 13F. (one could find this by comparing last 2 reports from the Winer and compare to 13F.) I'm going to guess that most of reduction was done in November and December 2007. I could be wrong though. During that period TAV reduced BAM by 307,352 shares, whereas TRAV reduced by 371,225 during Q ending January 2008.
http://www.thirdavenuefunds.com/taf/documents/pdf/TAF_1Q_ShareholderLetters.pdf
Winer goes onto discuss his concerns with Commercial Property. He cites cap rates specifically. Also mentions availability of financing and a concern of CMBS via "conduit lenders" freezing the borrowers of the last 15 years. Talks about widening spreads.
Here are some key takeaways:
“Commercial property valuations – particularly in the United States and Europe – have declined as the result of uncertainties regarding availability of financing and how an economic slowdown may impact future rental growth."
"Property valuations are most often determined by applying a market-determined capitalization rate (cap rate) to net operating income. A cap rate converts income into value. Typically, a cap rate reflects the anticipated unleveraged yield for the succeeding year. The unleveraged yield is determined by dividing the net operating income (cash flow before debt service and capital expenditures) by the purchase price. A property expected to generate net operating income of $900,000 would be valued at $15 million using a 6% cap rate. Unfortunately, capitalizing first-year net operating income is not always an accurate measure of value. For example, a fully occupied office building leased to a single high-credit-quality tenant would seemingly warrant a lower cap rate than a similar building leased to multiple, lower-quality tenants. However, if the lease on the single-tenant building is set to expire in two years, and the contract rent exceeds current market rents in the area, then a higher cap rate (lower value) is warranted to compensate for the uncertainty of future cash flows. Similarly, if the contract rents on the multi-tenant building are substantially below current market rents, and there will be near-term opportunities to increase contract rents, then a lower cap rate (higher value) is warranted.”
“To determine an appropriate cap rate, several factors must be considered – including property specific and general market. Property specific factors include age, physical condition, location, credit quality of tenants, occupancy levels, in-place rents versus current market rents, lease expirations and local supply and demand. General market factors include interest rates, availability of long-term financing, unemployment rates, inflation and macro-economic conditions. Simply put, a cap rate (required yield) should indicate the “risk premium” over the “risk-free” return (e.g., U.S. government securities).”
“Each of the aforementioned factors must be taken into account when evaluating the risk premium. Cap rates are heavily affected by interest rates and the availability of long-term financing. A primary source of long-term financing for commercial properties over the last fifteen years has been “conduit lenders” that underwrite and originate loans that ultimately get packaged into commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”). The recent global credit crunch has had minimal impact on interest rates, but a dramatic impact on availability of financing. Demand for CMBS has weakened globally since banks and institutional investors began suffering mark-to-market losses on investmentgrade, subprime mortgage-backed securities. Despite strong credit fundamentals, especially high up in the CMBS capital structure, spreads on super senior CMBS have widened over 150 basis points (1.5%) since last summer. The decoupling of spreads and credit fundamentals is apparently due to uncertainty about potential economic fallout from the downturn in the U.S. housing and mortgage markets. U.S. 10-year Treasury yields have declined from about 5% last July to under 4% as of January 31st. Therefore, even though spreads have widened, actual yields on AAA-rated CMBS have not increased dramatically. (Note: the fact that the “risk-free” returns are lower, while required yields are higher, illustrates investors’ demand for higher “risk premium.”) The lack of liquidity and demand for CMBS has dramatically curtailed new loan originations by conduit lenders. This lack of financing has, in turn, resulted in a dramatic slowdown in commercial property transactions. Buyers and borrowers seeking refinancing have been forced to seek financing from “portfolio lenders” such as insurance companies and pension funds, that tend to have more conservative underwriting standards. These more conservative standards generally require more equity and more experienced and creditworthy borrowers.”
“Like any other investment, real estate must generate fair, risk-adjusted returns on equity to be attractive. If an investor can obtain 75% leverage at 6% interest on an investment property that yields 7%, the investor’s firstyear return on equity is 10%. (The equity return is higher due to the positive spread between the 7% property yield and 6% cost of debt.) However, if the investor could only obtain 60% leverage at 6% interest, the first-year return on equity would be only 8.5%. In order to achieve a 10% first-year return on equity, the investment property would have to yield 7.6%. This example illustrates the effect tighter credit has on cap rates (required yields) and, thus, commercial property values. Simply reducing the amount of leverage from 75% to 60% can force cap rates to increase (in this example, from 7% to 7.6%, or an 8.6% decrease in property value). Tighter credit, coupled with economic uncertainty and wider spreads (increased risk premiums) has resulted in downward revaluations for all property types.”
March 1, 2008 Ramblings, thesis, Brookfield Power (29.65)
We have been short BAM at various increments, with an average cost of around $38ish.
Our short thesis is based on the following concerns.
1. We think they are over leveraged and that increased credit costs, costs of capital, lower loan to values, will start stressing BAM.
2. We think potential for credit downgrades.
3. Concerns with reliance on commercial paper markets for liquidity.
4. Incestual sales and potentially unusual uses of related parties.
5. Severe over-valuation of power division. How do you get a book value of $349M, Free Cash flow of $10M, operating at a net loss, into a valuation of $6.5B?
6. Slowdown in Alberta CN real estate. (BPO)
7. High occupancy rates in metro areas, possibly deteriorating because of reliance on financial service industry as well as potentially unusually high.
8. Recent exotic financings. One would be 1 Liberty Plaza NYC.
9. Credit tightness.
10. Recession potential and pain on levered companies.
11. Stock price fueled by blind following of value investing community, who bought the idea and didn’t dig deep into financials. Perhaps that has ended and mass liquidation could occur. Are any covenants reliant on stock price?
12. Potential aggressive accounting procedures. Consideration that potential of over capitalization in past increased earnings, yet now they potentially use the crutch of depreciation on those previous capital expenditures not being considered in valuation.
13. $4B of debt coming due in 2008. Can they manage to refinance. Again, this is where excess leverage can become painful.
14. Reminds me of Enron with all their spin-offs and shuffling of assets. Not so sure institutional investors will embrace for continuing investments.
15. Integration concerns of multiplex. CEO UK already left.
16. Is BAM the glib helper and also a member of Buffett's Gotrocks family?
Brookfield Power Corp. reports annual financials:
1. Brookfield Power Inc restated Sept and June financials. I think a non-cash restatement of taxes due to currency translation. I think favorable to book value. Non-Cash working capital went up $27M.
2. Brookfield Power Corp reported its audited financials. (BPC is wholly owned by BPI and consolidated into BAM). Company is financing facility for BPI.
a. Shareholders deficit went up to $3.6B from $2.5B in 2006.
b. Long term debt went down $6M.
c. Changed accounting methods in 2007 for deferred financing fees.
d. $450M of debt coming due 12/09.
e. Credit facility expires 4/09, has $350M avail. Has letters of credit out of $135M.
f. Annual net loss was only $1.2B compared to last year of $2.5B
g. Will be combining with BPI 1Q08.
h. The total assets of $802M consist of notes receivable from BPI.
3. BPC issued Earnings Coverage Ratio was .96 in F07 and .92 in F07 (an improvement). Yet, excluding capital securities interest coverage was 1.30 in F07 and 1.98 in F06 (not an improvement). We wonder how ratings agencies will work with this.
4. Note to myself... Restatement and accounting change.... in textbook forensic accounting, these are two warning signs of potentially aggressive accounting. We are not saying they are doing anything wrong. We are just saying we have two potential red flags. To put this into context, a heavy person who is a smoker who does not exercise has a higher risk of heart attack then does a person who eats healthy and exercises regularly. Yet, the heavy guy could live a lot longer. Just in the stats.
Brookfield Power Inc (operating company and consolidates great lake hydro):
1. Consider the potential of Book Value to be currently inflated because of potentially aggressive capex policies in prior years. This could be cause for rising depreciation as well.
2. Watch the bond ratings closely.
3. Review related party transactions.
4. Compare to last years annual. Look for prior debt discussions and compare.
5. Company has coml. paper, rated R-1 (low) by DBRS. Same last year1
6. $451M of debt coming due in 2009. I think I mentioned in my last Brookfield Power note.
7. Debt went up $1B.
8. Page 24 - new debt instrument to be issued, not yet known, this is based on the amalgamation of BPC.
9. Shareholders equity is now $349M, from $409M in 2006.
10. Track the bonds of Power Operating Companies:
|
Great Lakes Power |
|
Pontiac Power |
|
Brookfield Power NY |
|
BPUS NewFinance |
|
Beaver Power |
|
Serpent River |
|
Cameron Falls |
|
Algonquin Power |
|
Powell First River Mortgage Bonds |
|
Lake Superior Power Senior Secured |
|
Lievre Power |
|
Valerie Falls |
|
Mississagi Power |
|
Pingston Power |
|
Great Lakes Hydro America |
|
Hydro Kennebec |
|
Carmichael Falls |
|
Bear Swamp |
|
Rumford Falls |
|
Valemount |
|
Prince Wind |
11. Capital Securities, being paid in cash or conversion shares?
12. On January 24, 2008 BAM INJECTED Power with $200M to provide liquidity. I kind of recall, and will have to look into my notes, the ratings agencies frowning on such, and would consider such a financial movement as a possible downgrade trigger.
13. Page 7 of MD&A describes the "Low environmental impact of Hydro." Verify this, as I thought there were environmental concerns with water flow, temperature, carbon factor and wildlife.
14. Company of course sold assets to BIP. Netted cash of $90M.
15. Page 10 discussed financing in December 2007. Find the terms and the actual note.
16. Company benefited by $12M for CDN to USD currency gains.
17. Derivative commodity loss of $79M. $16M of that loss is related party. The other $65M is from the LIPA contract.
18. Net loss of ($19M) includes a tax recovery of $21M; hence one could argue Adjusted Loss was closer to $40M
19. "We continue to maintain investment grade unsecured issuer ratings from DBRS (BBB High)), Standard and Poor’s (BBB) and Fitch (BBB-), which are influenced by a prudent level of low-cost asset financing and modest levels of corporate debt. The long-life nature of our assets allows us to finance with non-recourse debt and minimal near-term maturities, minimizing risks associated with liquidity and refinancing."
20. Hydrology levels at normal or above normal in January 2008.
The following is just one quick exercise on my first quick read.
Free Cash Flow off the cuff:
Net Income after adding back non-cash items was $150. Subtract capex of $140. You would have free cash flow of $10M. That does not take into account use of cash in investments, such as Brascan Brazil Ltd., debt repayments and those various related party transactions, which are not already included in income statement.
So you have FCF of say $10. Apply a multiple of 15X and you have a valuation of $150M.
In CSFB's 9/30/07 report, they assign a value to Brookfield Power of $6.5B. I am including $454M for Great Lakes Hydro.
How do you get a book value of $349M, Free Cash flow of $10M, operating at a net loss, into a valuation of $6.5B?
Beware the glib helper.
Warren said in his 2007 Annual report, "Beware the glib helper who fills your head with fantasies while he fills his pockets with fees."
He was referring to those that sell investors based on the hair brain idea that they will generate 10% or greater returns each year.
Highlights – For the three months and twelve months ended December 31, 2007
• The Company achieved its 2007 Guidance regarding launches (R$900 million to R$1 billion)
And contracted sales (R$600 million to R$700 million).
• Developments launched in the fourth quarter amounted R$303.0 million, while the total
Amount for the year was R$1 billion. Respectively, these figures represent an increase of 68%
and 165% compared to the same periods of 2006.
• Contracted sales reached R$390.8 million in the fourth quarter and R$713.1 million in the
year, which is the equivalent to an increase of 151% and 96%, respectively.
• The PSV (Potential Sales Value) of the land bank under Brascan’s control increased from R$5.6 billion in the end of 2006 to R$10.4 billion in the end of 2007, representing an 85.7% growth.
• Gross profit amounted to R$85.9 million in the fourth quarter and R$221.5 million in 2007, the
equivalent of a 71% and 24% growth, respectively.
• EBITDA reached R$66.6 million in the fourth quarter and R$171.9 in the year, which
corresponds to a growth of 77% and 56% compared to the same periods of 2006 (adjusted for
IPO expenses and partnership sales).
• EBITDA margin in 2007 achieved 41.1%, an increase of 5.2 pp from the previous year
(adjusted for IPO expenses and partnership sales).
• Net earnings were R$76.8 million in the fourth quarter and R$154.6 million in 2007,
representing a 99% and 60% increase, respectively.
• Cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2007 totaled R$466.6 million.
• Year-end gross debt totaled R$238.2 million, compared to R$465.5 million in the same period
of the previous year.
We always watch the bonds. We have mentioned previously that the BAM bonds have held up very well. This holding up is contrary to our thesis, and certainly a potential indicator that our short thesis is incorrect.
The bonds trade very infrequently, and have been priced at par or above.
BAM.GA 2017 5.80% have been priced at 100ish for quite a while. Most recent sale was at 87.791 yielding 7.678%, last trade 2/21/08. I have to look further, as this yield may be telling us that the bond although rated A- S&P is not trading as such.
BNN.GF 2012 7.125% have been priced at 105ish for quite a while. Most recent sale was at 98.5 yielding 7.535%, last trade 2/26/08.
BNN.GH hasn't traded since December 2007.
BNN.GA 2008 8.125% have been priced at 103ish for quite a while. Most recent sale was at 101.164 yielding 6.581%, last trade 2/25/08.
This is merely one thing we look at, long or short. The bond market maybe telling us something here. On the other hand, the bond market is acting funny lately, and recent trades could be the exception and nothing to concern oneself with. Something we watch though. Often in an issue that is trading at yields greater than their rating, means that the price of the bond has already priced in a ratings cut (or increase).
As a comparison average bond rates are as follows
2 year A yielding 3.16% on average
5 year A yielding 4.49% on average
10 year A yielding 5.61% on average
|
Cash Flow from Operations |
$689M |
|
less: shareholder distributions |
(258) |
|
less: capex Power Ops only |
(801) |
|
|
|
|
Cash Deficit Possibly Understated |
(370) |
|
Net Income |
$1,170M |
|
Add:Depreiciation |
600 |
|
Less: Capex (Power only being generous) |
(801) |
|
Free Cash Flow with capex generosity |
$ 969M |
Need to see capital expenditures from other segments, required funding of other segments (such as Norbord and Fraser this year), preferred dividends, debt repayments required
Lets be generous and say that 2006 true free cash flow was $500M, then using a multiple of 15X would be a market cap of $7.5B.
market cap of $7.5B, using 584M shares o/s would be a share price of $12.84 per share.
If price adjusted to $12.84 a share, would Bam Split and Bam investments cause concern? Would financing be obtainable at a reasonable cost? Would financing even be available?
Don’t forget average sell side analyst is incestually tied to BAM via deals, rentals, sales of assets, buyings of assets, share of the pie and investment banking. So, "believe little of what you hear and less of what you see". (Springsteen 2007, Magic)
1. I have had difficulty figuring out what is committed capital, versus already funded capital. If there is committed, and not yet funded, is a receivable set up. I don't think so. It would be important to see that committed versus funded, so that one could figure out potential cash outlays.
2. On the same token, I wonder if co-ventures have had difficulty coming up with committed and required capital. In this environment, it would be expected that some funds (not BAM of course) might have liquidity concerns.
3. I wonder if BAM has been affected by the lock of Auction Market Preferreds and overnight commercial paper. Judging from BAM bond prices, I think all is cool, but something to think about.
4. I need to refresh. I could have sworn that Brookfield Power and Brookfield Homes have consolidated in the past. Yet, on page 40 of Supplemental Information FYE 12/31/07, BAM discusses that BPO is consolidated in the segment basis, whereas other operations are not. I gather on consolidated financials they are all consolidated, unless something has changed, or unless I have been mistaken.
5. Page 43 indicates debt schedules coming due. 2008 is a big year for refinancing. This is where the credit profile is crucial. It is unarguable that credit costs have increased, loan to values have gone down, which in turn spells more expensive credit for all. Not to mention that liquidity is no longer a plenty. Lets see what happens on the new financings. One thing to watch is BIP's discussion last week, and how they will refi $1ish Billion by end of March. Just a lot tougher nowadays. Looks like $4.3B is coming due in 2008, again if I didn't look at the schedule incorrectly. $4.3B is 58% of current stockholders equity.
6. Companies to review, if possible. Concert Industries and Western Forest Products. These are owned by Tricap.
7. BAM made $100M using derivatives and credit protection. What was the cost of such. Will be interesting to see that unwind in 2008. Future profits or losses? Any guesses? My guess is we will see costs or losses from this in First half of '08.
8. I look forward to really trying to determine free cash flows. BAM reduces free cash flow by sustainable capex. they don't reduce by other real costs of maintenance capex. yet, maint and sustaining shows up in Statement of Cash Flows (when issued). Hence, why would maint capex not be an integral part of Free Cash Flow?
9. When do warehouses and credit lines come due for renegotiation?
10. It will be interesting to dissect the balance sheet. We will find out for sure what the "Financial Assets" of $1.5B are, why Accounts Receivable increased by $2.0B, goodwill increased by $800M, and Accounts Payable Increasing $2.8B.
11. Interest expense has increased dramatically. It will be fun to run the interest coverage ratios.
More to write, looking forward to the financials
October 23, 2007 Questions for BAM
1. Where is Great Lakes Hydro ownership reflected in BPI financials?
According to BAM, they are consolidated. BPI
makes up most of BAM Power Generations. There are a few immaterial addbacks and
so forth at consolidated level, but one could tear apart BPI and realize that
probably greater than 90% of BAM power is BPI. I didnt realize that GLH.UN is
consolidated into BPI.
Brascan Power is the new BPI. They were the old company. Brazil and Chile have
nothing to do with BPI, nor are they reported under Power Operations with BAM.
I think one could look at BPI, project future cash flows, and try to determine
various pricing metrics.
2. What assets on BPI are marked to market? None per BAM.
3. Is Brascan Power still a subsidiary? I don’t think so, but just checking. No, Brascan became BPI.
4. Are there any potential operational or financial stresses that could be caused or relieved because of stock price changes? Are any of the loans outstanding at all predicated by minimum BAM stock prices? No, per BAM.
5.
Why does BAM not indicate on page 19 of 2Q07 Interim Shareholder Report
that BPI debt is ‘BBB-‘ as opposed to reported ‘BBB’?
They will get back to me. They also offered to send me all ratings reports,
giving full detail. Interest on Capital securities is eliminated in
consolidation. Nevertheless, I guess I would have to look into including it as a
real expense for BPI, and maybe as real income for BAM. Remember, BPI has an IDR
rating of 'BBB-' by Fitch.
As I mention Fitch, and ratings. I see that BAM debt on the 2017's are yielding
around 6.01%. If you compare to like rated debt , you will see others (disney,
Schering and Kraft), are yielding 5.40%. One could theorize that BAM debt is not
trading like other S&P A- companies.
|
Issue |
coupon |
YTM |
|
BAM.GA |
5.80% |
6.01% |
|
KFT.GQ |
6.50% |
5.65% |
|
SCP.GC |
6.00% |
5.68% |
|
DIS.HV |
5.88% |
5.43% |
6. BAM discusses in 2Q07 report on page 4, “And as we discussed in our letter of February 10, 2006, we are generally inclined to hold assets indefinitely, preferring to monetize the accrued value by refinancing the asset, as opposed to an outright sale.” What assets would qualify for being held a long time? World Financial Centers have according to discussion, owned since early 1990’s. North American timber, which was spun off to Acadian Timber has been owned for almost 40 years, some of the Power operations as well.
7. BAM indicated to me that BPI has a deferred tax asset. I asked where it was on the financials, and they mentioned they would get back to me.
8. In BPI , what is “interest on capital securities?” Interest paid to parent.
9. Brookfield Properties, Brookfield Homes and Great Lakes Hydro are all consolidated, per BAM into BAM. They claim these are reduced via “non –controlling interests.” This is itemized on Page 43 or BAM AR 2006.
10. Longview Fiber operations, I think with value of $300M is listed as “financial asset – common shares section.” Longview Fiber shows up in 2007. BAM mentioned that they do not disclose components of these assets for competitive reasons.
11. Pages 16 and 17 of AR, list Total AUM, net invested capital for total and BAM. Committed Capital is listed in total, not for BAM. BAM told me this is being shown effective 3Q07 filings.
12. “We don’t concern ourselves with revenue. We concern ourselves with the net cash flow of the businesses.”
13. Maintaining capex is different than improvement and acquisition capex, according to BAM. I could see this to a point, but a serial acquirer could have this backfire. BAM claimed their sustaining basis capex is approximately $45M annually going forward.
14. If you go to sedar, again select "brookfield Power corp", look at filing
on April 23, 2007. called other and is the document with 29K of info.
It discusses interest coverage. I didnt fully understand. I spoke to several
people at BAM, and they also were not familiar.
It is interesting how this document both includes and excludes interest on
capital securities. Also, you can look at link on march 28, 2007, there is a
"prospectus supplement." In that supplement they discuss interest coverage ratio
as well.
My quick, back of the envelope analysis on BPI, has me thinking that "Brookfield
Asset Management Power Operations" should carry a market cap between, $1B to
$4B, and as far as I can see, I see no reasonable business explanation to a
value of $6B. with all that, be reminded that I have been short GOOG
since $450ish.
Thesis:
1. Assets to Equity is 6.7X. Leverage.
2. High occupancy rates, low current interest rates, priced for perfection.
3. sometimes, marks to market. Companies that mark to market, have been on my
radar.
4. Will financing costs remain low? Is access to capital already hindered? I am
hearing that capital markets have really siezed up.
Are investors still yearning for these types of investments? Are cash flows as
predictable as claimed? What percentage of their market cap is related to an
asset greater than 10 years? Could BAM be the "Gotrocks" Berkshire has referred
to?
5. Certain assets have been given long lives, which limits depreciation. Gas
Generation assets prior to 2006 were written off over 5 - 60 years. Now , it is
10 - 60 years.
|
Dams |
40 to 60 years |
|
Gas cogeneration stations(2005 listed as 5 to 40 years) |
10 to 40 |
|
Hydro Generating stations |
19 to 60 |
|
Wind Turbines |
20 to 25 |
|
Buildings |
5 to 60 |
|
Transmission and Distribution |
5 to 50 |
|
Equipment |
5 to 60 |
|
Water Rights |
2.50 % per year (I think 40 years?) |
15. Some metrics below.
|
|
6 months ended |
|
|
|||||
|
|
June 30, 2007 |
December 31, 2006 |
December 31, 2005 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Attempt to create FCF from BPI |
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Net Income as reported BPI |
$25 |
$106 |
$60 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Depreciation |
$74 |
$124 |
$102 |
|||||
|
Non-Controlling Interests |
$4 |
$24 |
$16 |
|||||
|
Tax and Other |
$67 |
($4) |
($4) |
|||||
|
Change In Working Capital |
($27) |
$20 |
$9 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Adjusted Cash flow from operations |
$143 |
$270 |
$183 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
additions to power assets |
($44) |
($382) |
($224) |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Temporarily Disregard the following: |
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Debt repayments |
|
|
|
|||||
|
Acquisitions |
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Adjusted free Cash flow from BPI financials |
$99 |
($112) |
($41) |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Total Operating Cash Flow as reported BAM |
$358 |
$620 |
$469 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Less: Interest |
($133) |
($235) |
($215) |
|||||
|
Less: Current Income Taxes |
($5) |
|
|
|||||
|
Less: Non-Controlling Interests |
($32) |
($48) |
($24) |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Net Operating Cash Flow as reported BAM |
$188 |
$337 |
$230 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Price to Book Value BAM |
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
|
June 30, 2007 |
2006 |
2005 |
2004 |
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
Consolidated Assets |
$44,029 |
$40,708 |
$26,058 |
$20,007 |
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
Common Equity - Book Value |
$6,337 |
$5,395 |
$4,514 |
$3,277 |
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
Common Equity - Market Value |
$24,926 |
$19,947 |
$13,870 |
$9,976 |
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
Market / Book Value |
3.93 |
3.70 |
3.07 |
3.04 |
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
|
6 mos ended |
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2007 |
F2006 |
% change |
F2005 |
% change |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asset Management income and fees |
$130 |
$84 |
33.33% |
$63 |
270.59% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property Service Fees |
$85 |
$155 |
-5.49% |
$164 |
28.13% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Fees |
$12 |
$18 |
-5.26% |
$19 |
-17.39% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
$227 |
$257 |
4.47% |
$246 |
46.43% |
|
Interest Coverage Ratio |
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
BPI |
6 months ended |
6 months ended |
|
|
|
||||
|
|
6/30/2007 |
6/30/2006 |
2006 |
2005 |
|
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
Net Income After Taxes |
$25 |
$92 |
$106 |
$60 |
|
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
add Taxes |
$28 |
$10 |
$8 |
-$17 |
|
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
Net Income Before Taxes |
-$3 |
$82 |
$98 |
$77 |
|
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
add: Interest Expense |
$137 |
$118 |
$244 |
$228 |
|
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
EBIT |
$134 |
$200 |
$342 |
$305 |
|
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
Interest Coverage Ratio |
0.98 |
1.69 |
1.40 |
1.34 |
|
||||
|
Interest Coverage Ratio |
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
BAM |
6 months ended |
6 months ended |
|
|
|||||
|
|
6/30/2007 |
6/30/2006 |
2006 |
2005 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Net Income After Taxes |
$348 |
$314 |
$1,170 |
$1,662 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
add Taxes |
$46 |
$51 |
$142 |
$162 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Net Income Before Taxes |
$302 |
$263 |
$1,028 |
$1,500 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
add: Interest Expense |
$822 |
$474 |
$1,185 |
$881 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
EBIT |
$1,124 |
$737 |
$2,213 |
$2,381 |
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
Interest Coverage Ratio |
1.37 |
1.55 |
1.87 |
2.70 |
|||||
|
Balance Sheet Differences BAM and BPI |
2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets Per BAM |
$5,390 |
$4,752 |
|
Total Assets Per BPI |
$5,872 |
$5,368 |
|
|
|
|
|
Difference |
($482) |
($616) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Equity Per BAM |
$1,368 |
$1,197 |
|
Total Equity Per BPI |
$409 |
$356 |
|
|
|
|
|
Difference |
$959 |
$841 |
|
|
2006 |
2005 |
|
Asset To Equity Ratio BAM |
3.94 |
3.97 |
|
Asset To Equity Ratio BPI |
14.36 |
15.08 |
16. Brascan Residential Properties look here http://www.brascanimobiliaria.com.br/english/corporate_profile.htm
17. When I start Canary Wharf, look here http://www.canarywharfinvestorrelations.com/
18. I would watch the financial assets, the mark to market will be interesting to see this quarter. Will they mark using level 3 allowances (mark to nearer the ask or modeled ask) or will they mark to model on the low side? I still need to find out if their fee business is based on marks to market. I imagine that it is.
19. I need to relook at capitalized interest expense.
20. Assets to Equity is 6.7X. Leverage.
21. High occupancy rates, low current interest rates, priced for perfection.
22. Sometimes, marks to market. Companies that mark to market, have been on my radar.
23. Will financing costs remain low? Is access to capital already hindered? I am hearing that capital markets have really siezed up.
24. Are investors still yearning for these types of investments? Are cash flows as predictable as claimed? What percentage of their market cap is related to an asset greater than 10 years? Could BAM be the "Gotrocks" Berkshire has referred to?
25. Certain assets have been given long lives, which limits depreciation. Gas Generation assets prior to 2006 were written off over 5 - 60 years. Now , it is 10 - 60 years.
October 22, 2007
1. Are there any potential operational or financial stresses that could be caused or relieved because of stock price changes. Are any of the loans outstanding at all predicated by minimum BAM stock prices?
2. Page 16 of the 2006 AR of BAM lists total assets under management. They use columns, “Assets”, “Net Invested Capital” and “Committed Capital.” Yet they don’t seem to list Brookfield Share of Committed Capital. Does this mean more funding is required in the future? “The tables also present our share of the assets and net invested capital, which includes the capital that we have invested alongside our clients as well as assets owned by us that do not form part of a fund. Within total assets under management, we present total assets, the amount of investment capital (i.e. net of debt) and the amount of capital that we and others have committed to invest in the funds.”
3. I need to track BAM and Co. bonds and determine if they trade relative to their credit rating. If they are trading better than credit rating, then perhaps they are perceived as a higher credit. If they trade lower than rating, then perhaps street is speculating ratings adjustment. With that said, I seem to recall most recent ratings discussion was positive. Why did Fitch give BPI a BBB- rating.
4. Page 10 of AR, “We define operating cash flow as net income prior to items such as depreciation and amortization, future income tax expense and certain non-cash items that in our view are not reflective of the actual underlying operations.”
5. Page 11 of AR discusses “Return on Invested Capital.” “We define cash return on capital as the operating cash flow per share as a percentage of the average book value per common share during the period, and for an individual operation as the operating cash flow as a percentage of net invested capital.” I need to figure out why OCF in this case is such a relevant number. BAM has high debt and if they were to over leverage OCF by BAM definition would not reflect anything negative. Interest Coverage ratio decreased from 2.70 in F2005 to 1.87 in F2006.
6. How could one monitor value of Canary Warf? Any public documents, debentures etc.
7. List asset values in size order. Do parts valuations after I finish BPI.
8. Page 13 of AR indicated hydrology was largely to credit the increase of “Net Operating Cash Flow” from 2005 to 2006. Projecting forward in 2007, I could be wrong, but I think North American river levels are down. Here is an article I found which mentioned this, http://www.timesanddemocrat.com/articles/2007/10/21/opinion/12788842.txt
“Many areas in upstate New York reported record low reservoir levels and dried-up wells and farm ponds“
9. Page 13 or AR indicated that Specialty Investment Funds increased by $54M from 2005, “due to increased activity, higher levels of investment capital and monetization gains.” What part were monetization gains? These are probably non-recurring. Brazil had Monetization Gain on sale of "non-core service in Brazil” of $126M.
10. Page 14 discusses “Current Tax Expense” being higher in 2006. One question I have is, “Could tax be higher because of mark to market on financial assets and ownership of investing entities. For example, would a higher value (marked to market) of a fee asset, result in higher fees and hence higher tax. Yet, since a “mark to market”, and potentially reversible, the tax expense could be a “ghost” item.
11. Price to Book Value
|
Price to Book Value |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
2005 |
2004 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Assets |
$40,708 |
$26,058 |
$20,007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Equity - Book Value |
$5,395 |
$4,514 |
$3,277 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Equity - Market Value |
$19,947 |
$13,870 |
$9,976 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Market / Book Value |
3.70 |
3.07 |
3.04 |
12. Page 18 in AR has what I consider to be an odd statement. “Asset management fees represent an important area of growth for our company and will increase as we expand our assets under management.” I find it odd, because they speak of growth of assets as though it is a given. The following is a chart of fees collected. Asset management fees appear to be growing, but potentially slowing. Something to watch and table as well for 2007. I also wonder what the fee income effect would be on a higher or more aggressive “mark to market” on Assets Under Management.
|
|
2006 |
% change |
2005 |
% change |
2004 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asset Management income and fees |
$84 |
33.33% |
$63 |
270.59% |
$17 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property Service Fees |
$155 |
-5.49% |
$164 |
28.13% |
$128 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Fees |
$18 |
-5.26% |
$19 |
-17.39% |
$23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
$257 |
4.47% |
$246 |
46.43% |
$168 |
13. Page 22 in 2006 AR indicated property sales in Calgary and Denver resulted in $44M of disposition gains.
14. Any expected future dividends from Canary Wharf? Dividends were $87M in 2006 and $183M in 2005.
15. Page 23 of AR mentions the Brookfield Properties equity issue of $1.3B. This gave rise to a gain of $110M.
16. Interesting that Brookfield Properties directs special attention to strong credit of tenants. “On average, the tenant profile exceeds an “A” credit rating. Here is a list of tenants they refer to.
|
Tenant |
Moodys |
S&P |
Fitch |
|
Merrill Lynch |
Aa3 |
AA- |
AA- |
|
Government of Canada |
DNF |
DNF |
DNF |
|
Wachovia |
Aa3 |
AA- |
AA- |
|
CIBC |
Aa2 |
A+ |
AA- |
|
Bank of Montreal |
DNF |
DNF |
DNF |
|
JPMorgan Chase |
Aa3 |
AA- |
AA- |
|
Goldman Sachs |
Aa3 |
AA- |
AA- |
|
RBC Financial Group |
DNF |
DNF |
DNF |
|
Petro-Canada |
Baa2 |
BBB |
NR |
|
Target Corporation. |
A1 |
A+ |
A+ |
|
Continental Airlines |
Caa2 |
B |
CCC |
|
Imperial Oil |
AAA |
DNF |
DNF |
|
Brookfield Power |
DNF |
BBB |
BBB- |
17. Brookfield Homes mentioned on page 24 of AR, had a market cap of $1B. Currently that market cap is $428M (usng $16.07 per share).
18. Page 25 of 2006 AR, recorded a gain of $269M, as Brascan Residential Properties S.A. went public.
19. Page 28 or AR in regards to “Power Operations,” discuss storage reservoirs. “Our storage reservoirs contain sufficient water to produce approximately 20% of our total annual generation and provide partial protection against short term changes in water supply. The reservoirs also enable us to optimize selling prices by generating and selling power during higher – priced peak periods.” I need to review 2007, but was wondering if recent Bear Swamp long term deal, with Long Island Power Authority would affect reservoir levels, potential generation of electricity, fixed in prices, etc.
20. Page 31 of 2006 AR, “We believe the intrinsic value of our power assets is much higher than book value because the assets have either been held for many years and therefore depreciated for accounting purposes which , in our view, is inconsistent with the nature of hydroelectric generating assets. In addition, we have been successful in acquiring, developing and upgrading many of our facilities on an attractive basis.” From this I need to look at evolution of company, long held assets, and compare to AES.
From Brookfield Power Corportation Renewal Annual Information Return dated March 23, 2007. Page 29, “Brookfield Power is currently rated BBB (high) with a stable trend by DBRS, BBB with a stable outlook by S&P and BBB- by Fitch with a stable outlook.” Per Fitch (2/12/07) approx $680M of debt is affected. Fitch ratings on this date included, “Fitch has affirmed the Issuer Default Rating (IDR) of Brookfield Power Inc. (BPI) at ‘BBB-‘ and the senior unsecured rating at ‘BBB.’
October 16, 2007
Brookfield Asset Management Various Credit Ratings.
|
Agency (Scope) |
Rating |
Date |
|
S&P's Short-term Issuer Credit Rating (Foreign) (1) |
A-2 |
05/15/96 |
|
S&P's Short-term Issuer Credit Rating (Domestic) (1) |
A-2 |
05/15/96 |
|
S&P's Long-term Issuer Rating (Foreign) (1) |
A- |
08/20/01 |
|
S&P's Long-term Issuer Rating (Domestic) (1) |
A- |
08/20/01 |
|
|
A-2 |
09/25/01 |
|
Fitch's Long-term Issuer Default Rating (Foreign) (1) |
BBB+ |
02/16/07 |
1. Article in today's FT. “Macquarie chief hits back at critics over leverage.” Article discussed that all is cool with Macquarie. Claims debt to equity is less than 60%. Claims debt is conservative for “very high quality assets with very reliable income streams.” James Chanos has claimed that eh Macquarie model works only in an era of cheap debt and rising asset prices.
Macquarie has 31 infrastructure funds, and is the world’s biggest owner of infrastructure assets. Including Thames Water, airports in Sydney and Brussels, toll roads in USA, Canada and Japan. Assets under management of US $202B.
Macquarie claims they have “been able to refinance without difficulty on very good terms and conditions.”
October 13, 2007 Brookfield Power Inc.
When reviewing Brookfield Power Inc,. make sure you look for “Brookfield Power Inc” (BPI) and not “Brookfield Power Corp.
It is my understanding that BPI is being valued at about $6B - $8B. I saw that in a CSFB report dated September 14, 2007. In their report, CSFB wrote, “…., sometimes challenging financial disclosures…..”
We follow AES Corporation, and they are the nearest competitor. If I remember correctly, AES is primarily in coal driven fuel, whereas BPI is more hydro.
I should look to construct table below:
|
Metric |
BPI |
AES – August 2007 Fact Sheet |
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues 12/31/06 |
$874M |
$11,564M |
|
Total Capacity |
11,150+ GWh (from M&A BPI 2006) |
42,556 |
|
Storage Capacity in reservoirs |
2,300 GWh |
|
|
|
|
|
Some 10K notes from BAM
1. “Property-specific and subsidiary debt increased to $3.4 billion from $2.8 billion at the beginning of 2006 due to new debt secured by acquired facilities and 30-year unsecured bonds issued by Brookfield Power during the fourth quarter that have no recourse to the Corporation. Property-specific debt totalled $2.7 billion at year end (2005 – $2.4 billion) and corporate unsecured notes issued by our power generating operations totalled $0.7 billion (2005 – $0.4 billion). Property-specific debt has an average interest rate of 8% and an average term of 16 years and is all investment grade quality. The corporate unsecured notes bear interest at an average rate of 5%, have an average term of 10 years and are rated BBB by S&P and BBB (high) by DBRS and BBB by Fitch.
Non-controlling interests represent the 49% interest in the Great Lakes Hydro Income Fund that is held by other shareholders.”
2. “Contract Profile - We endeavour to maximize the stability and predictability of our power generating revenues by contracting future power sales to minimize the impact of price fluctuations, by diversifying watersheds, and by utilizing water storage reservoirs to minimize
fluctuations in annual generation levels.
Approximately 80% of our projected 2007 and 2008 revenues are currently subject to long-term bilateral power sales agreements or shorter-term financial contracts. The remaining revenue is generated through the sale of power in wholesale electricity markets. Our long-term sales contracts, which cover approximately 55% of projected revenues during this period, have an average term of 13 years and the counterparties are almost exclusively customers with long-standing favourable credit histories or have investment grade ratings. The financial contracts typically have a term of between one and three years.
All power that is produced and not otherwise sold under a contract is sold in wholesale electricity markets, and due to the low variable cost of hydroelectric power and the ability to concentrate generation during peak pricing periods, we are often able to generate highly attractive margins on power which is otherwise uncontracted. This approach provides an appropriate level of revenue stability, without exposing the company to undue risk of contractual shortfalls, and also provides the flexibility to enhance profitability through the production of power during peak price periods.”
1. Uses Net Operating Income as their metric.
|
|
2006 |
2005 |
2004 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues |
$874M |
$774M |
$667M |
|
Net Operating Income |
$605M |
$461M |
$365M |
|
NOI as % of Revenues |
69% |
60% |
55% |
|
Net Income |
$106M |
$ 60M |
$ 76M |
|
Shareholder Equity |
$409M |
$356M |
$305M |
|
Total Assets |
$5,872 |
$5,368 |
$5,136 |
|
Depreciation and Amort. |
$124M |
$102M |
$74M |
|
Power Generating Assets |
$3,623M |
$2,992 |
$2,765 |
|
Borrowings |
$598 |
$916 |
$1,102 |
|
|
|
|
|
List of Power Assets:
|
Date |
Capacity |
Consideration Paid |
Net Asset Acquired |
|
February 17, 2006 |
50 MW (subsequently sold 20MW for CDN$56M 7/1/06) |
$86M CDN |
$75M |
|
June 8, 2006 |
39MW |
$147M |
$147M |
|
October 6, 2006 |
102 MW |
$122M |
$122M |
|
|
|
|
|
2. Short term investments include promissory notes from BAM. Carried at Lower of Cost or Market.
3. Financial Instruments are carried at Market, yet I don’t see them listed.
4. Depreciation rates are interesting .
|
Dams |
40 to 60 years |
|
Gas cogeneration stations (2005 listed as 5 to 40 years) |
10 to 40 |
|
Hydro Generating stations |
19 to 60 |
|
Wind Turbines |
20 to 25 |
|
Buildings |
5 to 60 |
|
Transmission and Distribution |
5 to 50 |
|
Equipment |
5 to 60 |
|
Water Rights |
2.50 % per year (I think 40 years?) |
5. In 2006 sold interest in “Carmichael LTD PTSP (CLP)” for CDN $56M. This was part of the February 2006 transaction. Sale of 20 MW.
October 3, 2007
Would be interesting to know how much of the space seller leased back to Brookfield and at what rental rates vs market...but seems like a solid tenant.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601082&sid=a2vhPU.iKlpo&refer=canada
“Brookfield Buys 52 U.S. Properties for $300 Million - "Brookfield Asset Management Inc.'s real estate unit bought 52 U.S. office buildings and bank branches from JPMorgan Chase & Co. for $300 million, adding to the 33 properties it bought from the U.S. bank last year.
The latest properties have 3.6 million square feet and are located in 14 states, Toronto-based Brookfield said today in a statement distributed by Marketwire.
They include the Elgin Card Services Building in suburban Chicago, the Sky Harbour Operations Center and two contiguous buildings in downtown Tempe, Arizona, and office buildings on Long Island and in Brooklyn, New York, Brookfield said.
Today's acquisition adds to the 5.3 million square feet of properties that Brookfield bought from JPMorgan Chase and affiliates last year for $460 million. The New York-based bank signed long-term leaseback agreements for ``significant'' portions of the space sold, Brookfield said.
The sale allowed New York-based JPMorgan Chase to get rid of vacant space it accumulated through mergers during the past several years and remove the responsibility of building ownership"
September 12, 2007
1. Still need to review Brookfield Infrastructure Partner’s (BIP) prospectus. It is my understanding that this is merely a rearranging of BAM assets. I think electricity transmission assets and timber assets will be included. They want to be seen as the leader in infrastructure assets.
2. BAM claims that debt financing is all investment grade and all tied to specific hard assets, with low cash flow volatility, from highly rated counter parties.
3. Current debt difficulties have had an affect on BAM. BAM considers the difficulty to be small. I have read speculation that the difficulty could turn into opportunities, as assets could be bought cheaply.
4. BAM via TriCap owns 6.2M shares of Stelco. Stelco looks like it is being bought out by US Steel. BAM expects to realize a gain of $225M. I have read that income taxes are not expected on sale because of other accumulated losses. I have not verified this tax statement.
September 11, 2007
BAM Investments Corp.
1. BAM is an investment holding company. Its principal business mandate is to provide its holders of Common shares with an appropriate related investment of Brookfield Asset Management.
2. BAM Investments holds 6.98 Brookfield Class A shares for every 10 common shares of BAM Investments. The net asset value per common share does not take into account tax and transaction costs on disposition.
3. The investent in Brookfield Asset Management Inc. consists of 60.8 million Class A Limited Voting shares of Brookfield less the value of debentures that are exchangeable into 5.3 million Brookfield Class A shares. The net investment of 55.5 million shares had a market value of $42.49 per share as at June 30, 2007.
4. Key Personell
a. Frank N.C. Lochan has been Executive Vice-President, Taxation of Brascan Corporation (an asset management company). Mr. Lochan is a shareholder of Partners Limited and owns securities representing a 0.9% equity interest in Partners Limited. Mr. Lochan is also Chairman and a director of MICC Investments Ltd. and West Street Capital Corporation. Mr. Lochan retired as an officer of Brookfield in September, 2005.
b. Brian D. Lawson is the President of the BAM Investment Corporation and Chief Financial Officer of Brookfield Asset Management, Inc. Mr. Lawson is a shareholder of Partners Limited and owns securities representing a 4.1% equity interest in Partners Limited. Mr. Lawson is also Chairman and a director of BAM Split Corp., and President and a director of West Street Capital Corporation and Wilmington Capital Management Inc.
c. Mr. Shah has been the Vice-President, Finance and Treasury of Brookfield Asset Management Inc.
d. Loretta M Corso is an Assistant Secretary, Brookfield Asset Management Inc. and Secretary of BNN Investments Ltd.
e. R. Frank Lewarne is a Director of BAM Investment Corp. Mr. Lewarne is also a director of BAM Split Corp., a subsidiary of the Corporation.
f. Ralph Zarboni has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The EM Group Inc. (a plastics and electric products distribution company).
g. Howard Driman has been Director of Finance of UIA Federations Canada (a national fundraising and community planning organization).
BAM Split Corp.
1. “The company commenced operations on September 5, 2001 with the objective of investing in Class A Limited shares of Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (“Brookfield”, formerly Brascan Corporation) in order to generate preferential cumulative quarterly dividends for the holders of the company’s preferred shares and to enable holders of the company’s capital shares to participate in any capital appreciation in the Brookfield shares.”
2. “The net asset value of the company will vary according to the value of the BAM shares and may be influenced by factors not within the control of the company, including the financial performance of the BAM shares which may result in a decline in value of the investment portfolio and/or in dividend income from the investment, interest rates and other financial market conditions.”
3. “As at September 30, 2006, the Net Asset Value per unit was $137.04 as compared to $100.11 as at September 30,2005, representing an increase of 37% reflecting appreciation in the market value of the BAM shares. Net asset value is calculated as the differential between total assets and total liabilities (not including preferred shares).”
4. “The company’s operations are managed by Brookfield, which is entitled to a fee of up to 10% of ordinary expenses of the company. For the year ended September 30, 2006, Brookfield charged a fee of $20,000 (2005 – $20,000).”
5. Owns 26,481 shares of Brookfield Asset Management, as of 9/30/06, with a cost of $354,829 and a fair value of $1,308,706.
a. I am not sure if this is reflected in USD or CAD.
b.