Auditor BDO Cuts Jobs With Focus on Managing Apollo Debt

Core Insights - BDO USA is implementing cost-cutting measures, including layoffs and halting non-essential travel, to manage an expensive debt agreement with Apollo Global Management [1][2][3] Group 1: Financial Situation - BDO has laid off dozens of employees across various business lines, including audit, tax, and advisory services [1] - The company has a $1.3 billion loan facility with Apollo, with current interest rates around 9%, which was reduced by 100 basis points as of June 30 [3] - BDO claims to be on solid financial footing and regularly reviews operations for efficiency [3] Group 2: Client Issues - One of BDO's major clients, First Brands Group, has filed for bankruptcy and is facing scrutiny from creditors regarding off-balance sheet financing [2][5] - BDO issued an unqualified opinion for First Brands in March, but the client later sought a quality of earnings report from Deloitte due to increased lender scrutiny [5] Group 3: Debt and Investment Implications - First Brands' collapse has resulted in significant losses for investors, with over $10 billion in debt affected [6] - Apollo has taken a short position against First Brands' debt, benefiting from the decline in the value of the company's loans [6]