Applied Digital Launches Major Convertible Notes Offering of $375M
Applied Digital Corporation's Convertible Notes Offering
Applied Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:APLD), a leader in designing and operating digital infrastructure for High-Performance Computing (HPC), has revealed its pricing for a significant $375 million convertible senior notes offering, set to mature in 2030. These notes will carry a competitive interest rate of 2.75% per annum, making them an attractive option for qualified institutional buyers, in compliance with Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933.
Details of the Offering
This offering features a conversion premium of 32.5% and is reinforced by capped call transactions to reduce potential dilution from the conversion of these securities. The cap price is established at $14.72 per share, significantly higher than the last closing price of APLD's common stock as of late October 2024.
In connection with this offering, the company is also launching a buyback initiative valued at approximately $84 million, which will be executed through a prepaid forward purchase and concurrent share buyback. This strategic move is designed to enhance shareholder value and further stabilize the company's stock performance, targeting around 7.2 million shares for repurchase.
Convertible Highlight
These convertible notes are classified as senior unsecured obligations of Applied Digital and are scheduled to make semi-annual interest payments starting on June 1, 2025. Each $1,000 principal amount converts into approximately 102.5431 shares of common stock, which equates to an initial conversion price of about $9.75 per share, representing a 32.5% premium above the common stock's closing price noted earlier.
The company has set specific conditions for the conversion of these notes, which can occur during defined periods before March 1, 2030, and then continuously until two trading days prior to the maturity date. Importantly, Applied Digital will not redeem the notes before December 1, 2027, although it maintains the right to redeem them for cash after that date under certain conditions.
Financial Implications and Proceeds
Anticipating closure of the offering on November 4, 2024, pending customary conditions, Applied Digital estimates net proceeds to be around $361.8 million, potentially rising to $434.5 million should additional notes be acquired. These funds are earmarked for the share repurchase program, capped call transactions, and to bolster general corporate needs.
The note purchasers have the privilege to acquire up to an additional $75 million in notes within a short 13-day timeframe from issuance. If this option is exercised, the revenue generated will partially finance more capped call transactions, enhancing the company's funding strategy.
Recent Company Developments
In addition to the convertible notes offering, recent developments at Applied Digital include plans for an additional $300 million issuance of convertible senior notes due in 2030. The company has reported impressive revenue growth, reaching $60.7 million, primarily fueled by its cloud services and the North Dakota BTC facilities, despite navigating a net loss of $21.6 million. Analysts from H.C. Wainwright and Craig-Hallum have recently adjusted their stock price targets for APLD upwards, reflecting rising optimism regarding the company's future prospects.
Furthermore, the company has streamlined its capital structure by cancelling the designations of its Series A, Series B, and Series D Convertible Preferred Stocks. In personnel changes, Saidal Mohmand has stepped in as Chief Financial Officer, with David Rench taking on the Chief Administrative Officer role.
Adding to their momentum, Applied Digital is finalizing a significant high-performance computing lease deal with a major hyperscaler and has secured a $160 million private placement that included notable investments from Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) and Related Companies. These strategic moves reflect Applied Digital's commitment to advancing its operational capacities and exploring new growth avenues.
Investing Insights
The announcement of the $375 million convertible notes offering coincides with a transformative period for Applied Digital. Data shows that the stock has exhibited an impressive total return of 172.09% over the past six months, showcasing robust investor engagement.
Notably, the company has achieved a 124.03% revenue growth relative to the last year as of the first quarter of 2025. This bodes well for the ongoing optimism surrounding future capital raises via the convertible notes, as the company seeks to further expand its digital infrastructure capabilities.
While APLD remains unprofitable, with a reported operating income margin of -47.83% for the last twelve months, the recent moves, including the convertible notes offering, are viewed as tactical efforts to solidify the financial foundation as the company pursues its growth strategy in a competitive landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the $375 million convertible notes offering?
The proceeds will support a share repurchase program and fund general corporate purposes.
How does the conversion premium for these notes benefit investors?
A 32.5% conversion premium enhances potential returns for investors converting their notes into shares.
When will the first interest payment be made for these notes?
Interest payments will begin on June 1, 2025.
Is there a risk of dilution for existing shareholders?
Yes, the capped call transactions are designed to mitigate this risk during conversion.
What recent executive changes have occurred at Applied Digital?
Saidal Mohmand has been appointed CFO, while David Rench is now the Chief Administrative Officer.
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