8-KOther EventsExhibits & Filings

DIGITAL REALTY TRUST, INC. 8-K Report, Corporate Update (Jun 29, 2011)

Filed June 29, 2011For Securities:DLRDLR-PJDLR-PKDLR-PL

Summary

Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (DLR) announced on June 29, 2011, the execution of equity distribution agreements with several major financial institutions, including Merrill Lynch, Citigroup, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, and Morgan Stanley. These agreements allow DLR to sell up to $400 million of its common stock through "at the market" offerings on the New York Stock Exchange, or through other designated sales channels. The primary purpose of these offerings is to raise capital, which will be contributed to the operating partnership. The proceeds are earmarked for strategic initiatives such as repaying borrowings under the company's revolving credit facility, acquiring new properties, funding development and redevelopment projects, and for general corporate purposes. This move provides DLR with financial flexibility to pursue growth opportunities and manage its capital structure.

Key Highlights

  • 1Digital Realty Trust (DLR) has entered into equity distribution agreements to potentially sell up to $400 million of its common stock.
  • 2Sales will be conducted as "at the market" offerings through a syndicate of major investment banks.
  • 3The proceeds are intended to enhance financial flexibility and fund strategic growth initiatives.
  • 4Planned uses for the net proceeds include repaying credit facility borrowings, acquiring properties, and funding development/redevelopment.
  • 5The offerings will leverage an effective shelf registration statement filed with the SEC.
  • 6This action indicates a proactive approach to capital raising for expansion and operational needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main purpose is to provide Digital Realty Trust with the flexibility to raise up to $400 million in capital by selling its common stock through 'at the market' offerings. This capital will be used to support growth initiatives, such as property acquisitions and development, as well as to manage its debt and working capital.

The shares will be sold in "at the market" offerings, meaning they can be sold on the New York Stock Exchange or through other market mechanisms, at prevailing market prices, at the company's discretion, and through designated agents.

The net proceeds are intended to be contributed to Digital Realty Trust, L.P. (the operating partnership) for various purposes, including temporarily repaying borrowings under its revolving credit facility, acquiring additional properties, funding development and redevelopment projects, and for general working capital. This could also include repurchasing, redeeming, or retiring outstanding debt or preferred equity.

The agents are major financial institutions: Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC.