8-KMaterial AgreementsFinancial EventsExhibits & Filings

AMERICAN TOWER CORP /MA/ 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Jun 11, 2007)

Filed June 11, 2007For Securities:AMT

Summary

On June 11, 2007, American Tower Corporation (AMT) announced the successful refinancing of its existing $1.6 billion senior secured credit facilities at the operating company (AMT OpCo) level. This was replaced by a new $1.25 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility at the corporate level. The company drew down approximately $1.0 billion to repay the outstanding amounts under the old facilities. This move signifies a shift towards unsecured debt and potentially offers greater financial flexibility. The new facility has a five-year term, maturing on June 8, 2012, and allows for borrowings for general corporate purposes, including potential equity repurchases under certain conditions. Investors should note the inclusion of financial covenants, such as leverage and interest coverage ratios, which the company must maintain.

Key Highlights

  • 1Refinanced $1.6 billion senior secured credit facilities at AMT OpCo with a new $1.25 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility at the corporate level.
  • 2Drew down $1.0 billion under the new facility to repay existing debt.
  • 3New credit facility has a five-year term, maturing on June 8, 2012.
  • 4Interest rate options include LIBOR-based or base rate borrowings, with margins dependent on the company's debt ratings.
  • 5Includes financial maintenance tests: consolidated total leverage ratio (<= 6.00x), consolidated senior secured leverage ratio (<= 3.00x), and interest coverage ratio (>= 2.50x).
  • 6Proceeds can be used for general corporate purposes, including refinancing debt and, under specific conditions, equity repurchases.
  • 7The new facility is unsecured, marking a potential shift in the company's capital structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

This 8-K filing announces the successful refinancing of American Tower Corporation's (AMT) existing credit facilities with a new, larger, and unsecured revolving credit facility. It also details the terms and covenants associated with this new facility.

The new facility is a $1.25 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility at the corporate level, replacing a $1.6 billion senior secured facility at the operating company level. This means the debt is no longer secured by specific assets and is at the parent company level.

AMT must maintain a consolidated total leverage ratio of not greater than 6.00 to 1.00, a consolidated senior secured leverage ratio of not greater than 3.00 to 1.00, and an interest coverage ratio of not less than 2.50 to 1.00.

The funds can be used for working capital needs and other general corporate purposes. This includes refinancing or repurchasing other indebtedness and, provided certain conditions are met, repurchasing the company's equity securities.