Announcement of Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement

Rhea-AI Summary

Willis Lease Finance (NASDAQ: WLFC) has entered into a Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with the Development Bank of Japan Inc. This agreement refinances WLFC's $50 million of aggregate Series A-1 and Series A-2 preferred stock into one $65 million preferred stock series with a seven-year term, at the rate per annum of 8.35% per share.

Scott B. Flaherty, Executive Vice President and CFO of WLFC, stated that this investment is the result of a strong, long-term relationship between the two organizations. The expansion of the investment provides WLFC with incremental equity to support the continued growth of their business.

WLFC specializes in leasing commercial aircraft engines, auxiliary power units, and aircraft to airlines, manufacturers, and maintenance providers worldwide. The company also offers various services including engine and aircraft trading, asset management, end-of-life solutions, and maintenance services.

Positive

• Refinancing of $50 million preferred stock into a larger $65 million series
• Seven-year term for the new preferred stock series
• Expansion of investment provides incremental equity for business growth
• Strong, long-term relationship with the Development Bank of Japan

Negative

• Increased preferred stock liability from $50 million to $65 million
• Higher annual rate of 8.35% per share on the new preferred stock series

Insights

Financial Analyst

This refinancing deal with the Development Bank of Japan is a significant financial move for Willis Lease Finance The company is effectively increasing its preferred stock funding from $50 million to $65 million, providing an additional $15 million in equity capital. This extra liquidity can be important for supporting business growth in the capital-intensive aircraft leasing industry.

The new preferred stock comes with a 8.35% annual dividend rate and a seven-year term. While this rate is relatively high in the current environment, it reflects the specialized nature of WLFC's business and the long-term commitment from the investor. The consolidation of two series into one may also streamline WLFC's capital structure.

For investors, this deal signals strong institutional backing and confidence in WLFC's business model. The expanded investment from a reputable institution like the Development Bank of Japan could be seen as a positive indicator for the company's future prospects and financial stability.

Market Research Analyst

This refinancing agreement comes at an interesting time for the aviation industry. As the sector continues to recover from the pandemic-induced downturn, there's an increasing demand for flexible aircraft and engine leasing solutions. WLFC's ability to secure additional funding suggests they're positioning themselves to capitalize on these market trends.

The company's diverse service offerings, including engine leasing, trading and maintenance, provide a comprehensive ecosystem for airlines and maintenance providers. This integrated approach could be particularly attractive in the current market, where efficiency and cost management are crucial.

Investors should note that while this deal provides WLFC with more financial flexibility, it also increases the company's preferred dividend obligations. However, if WLFC can effectively deploy this capital to grow its leasing portfolio or expand its service offerings, it could lead to enhanced long-term value for common shareholders.

COCONUT CREEK, Fla., Oct. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: WLFC) (“WLFC”) today reported that on September 27, 2024, WLFC entered into a Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with the Development Bank of Japan Inc., which refinances WLFC’s $50 million of aggregate Series A-1 and Series A-2 preferred stock into one $65 million preferred stock series with a seven-year term, at the rate per annum of 8.35% per share.

“The Development Bank of Japan’s preferred stock investment is the result of a strong, long-term relationship between our two organizations, and we are proud to have them as partners,” said Scott B. Flaherty, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of WLFC. “The expansion of their investment provides WLFC with incremental equity to support the continued growth of our business.”

Willis Lease Finance Corporation

Willis Lease Finance Corporation leases large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines, auxiliary power units and aircraft to airlines, aircraft engine manufacturers and maintenance, repair, and overhaul providers worldwide. These leasing activities are integrated with engine and aircraft trading, engine lease pools and asset management services through Willis Asset Management Limited, as well as various end-of-life solutions for engines and aviation materials provided through Willis Aeronautical Services, Inc. Additionally, through Willis Engine Repair Center^®, Jet Centre by Willis, and Willis Aviation Services Limited, the Company’s service offerings include Part 145 engine maintenance, aircraft line and base maintenance, aircraft disassembly, parking and storage, airport FBO and ground and cargo handling services.

Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Do not unduly rely on forward-looking statements, which give only expectations about the future and are not guarantees. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update them. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: the effects on the airline industry and the global economy of events such as war, terrorist activity and the COVID-19 pandemic; changes in oil prices, rising inflation and other disruptions to world markets; trends in the airline industry and our ability to capitalize on those trends, including growth rates of markets and other economic factors; risks associated with owning and leasing jet engines and aircraft; our ability to successfully negotiate equipment purchases, sales and leases, to collect outstanding amounts due and to control costs and expenses; changes in interest rates and availability of capital, both to us and our customers; our ability to continue to meet changing customer demands; regulatory changes affecting airline operations, aircraft maintenance, accounting standards and taxes; the market value of engines and other assets in our portfolio; and risks detailed in WLFC’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other continuing reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

CONTACT:	Scott B. Flaherty
	EVP & Chief Financial Officer
	561.349.9989

FAQ

What is the new preferred stock agreement for Willis Lease Finance (WLFC)?

WLFC entered into a Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with the Development Bank of Japan Inc., refinancing $50 million of existing preferred stock into a new $65 million series with a seven-year term at 8.35% per annum.

How much additional capital did WLFC secure through the new preferred stock agreement?

WLFC secured an additional $15 million in capital, as the new agreement refinances $50 million of existing preferred stock into a $65 million series.

What is the interest rate on WLFC's new preferred stock series?

The new preferred stock series has an interest rate of 8.35% per annum.

How will the new preferred stock agreement benefit WLFC?

The agreement provides WLFC with incremental equity to support the continued growth of its business, according to CFO Scott B. Flaherty.