vestec Bank Limited has announced its plans to list R100 million senior unsecured mixed rate Notes on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). This strategic move aims to raise capital and expand the bank’s financial offerings. The listing application for the Notes, denoted by stock code IBL277, has been formally submitted under Investec Bank Limited’s well-established Domestic Medium Term Note and Preference Share Programme, dated 17 March 2021.

The anticipated listing will see the issuance of the IBL277 Notes to Noteholders on the 15th of August 2023, with trading activity officially commencing on the same date. This financial instrument carries several notable features, presenting both fixed and floating interest rate components that reflect the bank’s commitment to offering diverse investment opportunities to the market.

Mixed Rate Notes – A Blend of Stability and Flexibility

The IBL277 Notes’ distinctive structure combines both fixed and floating interest rate characteristics, catering to investors seeking stability along with the potential for yield adjustments based on market conditions. The Notes come with an aggregate nominal amount of R100 million and a nominal amount per Note set at R1 million.

The Interest Rate, a crucial factor for investors, will exhibit the following behavior:

• Floating Rate: The Note’s Interest Rate will be linked to the Reference Rate plus the Margin, spanning from the Issue Date up to the Interest Payment Date of 15 February 2025.
• Fixed Rate: After the aforementioned period, from the Interest Payment Date of 15 February 2025 up to but excluding the Maturity Date, a fixed Interest Rate of 8.91% per annum will be applicable.

This hybrid structure not only provides a hedge against interest rate fluctuations but also capitalizes on potential interest rate decreases or increases, offering investors a balanced approach to yield generation.

Key Dates and Information for Investors

The Notes come with a Maturity Date of 15 August 2026, and the Issue price per Note is set at 100% of the nominal amount. Additionally, the Final Redemption Amount per Note will be the Nominal Amount per Note, supplemented by any accrued unpaid interest, if applicable, up to the Maturity Date.

The investment timeline is further governed by the Interest Commencement Date of 15 August 2023, initiating the cycle of Interest Payment Dates on 15 August, 15 November, 15 February, and 15 May, with the first payment scheduled for 15 November 2023. Notably, the Business Day Convention employed is “Following Business Day,” ensuring smooth interest payment processing.

Investors should also be mindful of the Books Close Dates when the Register will be closed for specific periods, as well as the Last Day to Register, which precedes these closure periods. These measures are in place to facilitate the efficient management of the investment process.

Conclusion

Investec Bank’s decision to list R100 million senior unsecured mixed rate Notes represents a strategic initiative to tap into the market’s appetite for diverse investment opportunities. By blending fixed and floating interest rates, the bank aims to offer investors a compelling combination of stability and flexibility. As the listing date of 15 August 2023 approaches, prospective investors are encouraged to review the comprehensive terms and conditions outlined in the Applicable Pricing Supplement to make informed investment decisions in line with their financial goals.