Iceland Successfully Issues Eurobond to Bolster Economy
Iceland's Successful Eurobond Issuance
The Republic of Iceland has made a significant move by issuing a €750 million Eurobond, equivalent to ISK 109 billion. This bond features a fixed coupon rate of 2.625% and will mature in five years, with a re-offer yield of 2.672%. The funds raised are intended to enhance the foreign exchange reserves of the Central Bank of Iceland and to assist in refinancing existing Eurobonds.
Tender Offer for Existing Eurobonds
Alongside the Eurobond issue, the Treasury has initiated a tender offer to repurchase its outstanding €500 million Eurobond maturing in 2026. This tender offer will remain open until 17:00 BST on a specified future date.
Strong Demand from Investors
The bond issue has attracted exceptional demand, with orders reaching €4.4 billion—almost six times the amount offered. The diverse investor base includes over 100 institutions such as asset managers, banks, central banks, pension funds, and insurance companies from across Europe. Notable financial institutions like Citibank, Barclays, J.P. Morgan, and BNP Paribas served as joint lead managers for this successful transaction.
Government's Positive Outlook
Daði Már Kristófersson, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, expressed satisfaction with the strong investor interest, highlighting improved spreads compared to previous offerings. He remarked, “The breadth and diversity of the investor base reflect our goal of broadening access to Icelandic government bonds. This outcome showcases market confidence in our economy and the government’s fiscal strategies.”
Strategic Debt Management
This issuance is aligned with the Government’s Medium-Term Debt Management Strategy, which aims to position the Treasury as a regular and credible issuer in the international capital markets.
Improved Market Positioning
The pricing of this bond, set at 42 basis points over mid-swaps, marks a notable improvement compared to the Treasury’s earlier issuance of a 10-year green bond in 2024, which had a mid-swap spread of 95 basis points. Even amid global economic uncertainty, Icelandic sovereign debt spreads have narrowed, outperforming many similar-rated peers.
Iceland's Economic Confidence
Minister Kristófersson affirmed that the positive reception from investors is a strong indicator of Iceland’s resilient and growing economy. He noted factors like declining inflation, diversified exports, and an improved sustainability profile contributing to a stronger credit outlook for the nation. “Our message is resonating well with investors,” he emphasized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount raised from Iceland's Eurobond issuance?
Iceland successfully issued a €750 million Eurobond in a recent transaction.
What is the purpose of the Eurobond proceeds?
The proceeds are aimed at bolstering the foreign exchange reserves of the Central Bank and refinancing existing Eurobonds.
How did investors respond to the Eurobond offer?
The Eurobond received enthusiastic interest, with orders totaling €4.4 billion, nearly six times the issue size.
Who were the lead managers for this issuance?
Citibank, Barclays, J.P. Morgan, and BNP Paribas acted as joint lead managers for the Eurobond issuance.
What does this issuance say about Iceland's economy?
The issuance reflects a robust market confidence in Iceland’s economic stability, characterized by economic growth and improved credit profiles.
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