Highlights:
- Star Entertainment considers up to AU$940 million refinancing deal with Salter Brothers.
- Proposal includes AU$750 million upfront, with an option for interest-in-kind payments.
- Funding agreement deadline set for March 18.
Star Entertainment Group (ASX:SGR) has confirmed that property funds manager Salter Brothers Capital is the unnamed financier behind a potential AU$940 million ($589.47 million) refinancing package. The embattled casino operator opened its books to Salter in hopes of securing a deal to restructure its debt and stabilize its finances.
The announcement follows Star’s earlier disclosure of a refinancing offer, though the company had not previously named the financier. On Tuesday, Star identified Salter Brothers as one of Australia’s leading alternative investment managers, signaling progress in negotiations to shore up its balance sheet.
Details of the Refinancing Proposal
Under the proposed deal, Salter Brothers would provide an initial AU$750 million to Star Entertainment. The package also includes the flexibility for Star to pay interest-in-kind for a period, which could ease immediate cash flow pressures.
The total debt capacity could rise to AU$940 million, including interest, contingent on Star maintaining at least AU$50 million in cash reserves. This structure aims to give Star breathing room while addressing its short-term liquidity challenges.
Critical Deadline Approaching
Both companies have set a deadline of March 18 to finalize the funding package. The deal’s success could be crucial for Star as it navigates financial headwinds and regulatory pressures following recent struggles in Australia’s gaming sector.