Thames Water lenders prepared to take £7bn hit to avoid nationalisation

Core Viewpoint - Thames Water is undergoing a significant restructuring effort, with creditors proposing a plan to write off £7.5 billion of debt to avoid nationalization and ensure long-term financial stability [1][3]. Debt Restructuring - A consortium of creditors has proposed to cancel approximately one-third of Thames Water's nearly £20 billion debt, which would involve a £1 billion increase in investment compared to previous proposals [1][5]. - The investor group, known as London & Valley Water, aims to secure leniency on future penalties in exchange for committing to investment and paying outstanding fines [2][5]. Financial Performance - Thames Water reported annual losses of £1.6 billion, driven by a high debt burden and ongoing sewage failures, contributing to its financial crisis [2][3]. Turnaround Timeline - Company executives estimate that the turnaround of Thames Water will take at least a decade, emphasizing the extensive work required to improve service and environmental outcomes [3][6]. Investment and Governance - The creditors have committed to not paying dividends during the turnaround and will not sell the business before March 2030 [4][5]. - Mike McTighe is proposed to become the chairman of Thames Water, indicating a leadership change aimed at facilitating the turnaround [6][7]. Equity and Stakeholder Engagement - Lenders of Thames Water's "Class A" debt would receive at least 10% of new equity in the company in exchange for writing off about 25% of their stake, valued at around £4 billion [7]. - The company is in discussions regarding the bid, which would require High Court approval to proceed [8].