
Core Viewpoint - New World Development, owned by the Cheng Yu-tung family, faces significant financial challenges following the announcement of delayed interest payments on its perpetual bonds, leading to a sharp decline in its stock price and bond values [1][3][4]. Group 1: Financial Impact - New World Development's stock price dropped over 10% in a single day, closing at HKD 4.43, with a trading volume of 33.85 million shares, amounting to HKD 148 million [1][4]. - The company announced a total deferral of USD 77.2 million in debt obligations, with specific perpetual bonds hitting historical lows, such as the 6.15% perpetual bond dropping to 23 cents and the 4.8% bond falling to 15.5 cents [3][4]. - Analysts from Morningstar and Morgan Stanley indicated that while the deferral does not trigger a default, it poses long-term risks due to accumulating repayment obligations [4][6]. Group 2: Business Performance - New World Development reported contract sales of approximately HKD 24.8 billion this fiscal year, achieving over 95% of its annual sales target, with notable sales from projects in Hong Kong [6][7]. - Despite improvements in property sales, HSBC Global Research maintains a "reduce" rating on the company, citing low visibility in business turnaround and potential financial strain affecting dividend payments [6][7]. Group 3: Debt Management - The company is actively working on refinancing its HKD 87.5 billion bank loans and has secured commitments for refinancing, including a new loan of HKD 15.6 billion against its Victoria Dockside property [7]. - New World Development has successfully refinanced approximately HKD 17.76 billion of existing bank loans since July 2024, indicating ongoing efforts to manage its financial obligations [7].