Summary
Abbott Laboratories (ABT) announced on July 31, 2017, the entry into a significant financing agreement through a Term Loan Agreement. This agreement provides access to up to $2.8 billion in unsecured loans, primarily intended to finance the acquisition of Alere, repay existing debt related to both Abbott and the acquired business, and cover associated transaction costs. The funding is contingent on certain conditions, including the successful closing of the Alere acquisition. This move signals Abbott's commitment to executing its strategic acquisition plans and managing its capital structure effectively. Investors should note that the loan has a 5-year maturity and its interest rate will fluctuate based on Abbott's credit rating and a choice between a base rate or Eurodollar rate. The agreement includes standard covenants and events of default typical for such unsecured debt, and detailed terms will be further disclosed in Abbott's subsequent quarterly filing.
Key Highlights
- 1Abbott Laboratories entered into a $2.8 billion unsecured Term Loan Agreement on July 31, 2017.
- 2The primary purpose of the loan is to finance the acquisition of Alere.
- 3The funds will also be used to repay existing indebtedness of both Abbott and Alere.
- 4The loan is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including the consummation of the Alere acquisition.
- 5The loan has a maturity of 5 years from the date of borrowing.
- 6Interest rates are variable, based on Abbott's credit rating and a choice between base or Eurodollar rates.
- 7The agreement includes customary covenants and events of default for unsecured financings.