Wednesday, June 6, 2007

Coles Credit Default Swaps Are Attractive on Takeover Risk, Merrill Says

(Bloomberg) -- Investors should buy credit-default
swaps linked to Coles Group Ltd., Australia's second-biggest
retailer, because a takeover led by Wesfarmers Ltd. may push its
debt rating below investment grade, said Merrill Lynch & Co.

The contracts, used to speculate on a borrower's ability to
repay debt, are near the lowest since December. Three potential
bidders left a rival buyout group last week after examining Coles
Group's finances. Wesfarmers, Australia's second-biggest home
improvement retailer, has a 12 percent equity stake in Coles and
must decide whether to submit a bid this month.


Read more at Bloomberg Bonds News

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