Noteholders are advised that GCR Ratings has changed Accelerate’snational scale long-term and short-term issuer ratings to C(ZA) and C(ZA) from B(ZA) and B(ZA), respectively, with the outlook on all ratings remaining on Rating Watch Negative. The downgrades were assigned due to an increasing risk of a near-term default/distressed debt exchange. Concurrently, the Senior Secured Notes long-term issue credit ratings have been downgraded to CCC+(ZA)(EL) from BB(ZA)(EL), with effect from 25 February 2025.
Accelerate is engaging with its funding partners to extend the term of their current term loan facilities and the maturity date of the notes for two years to 31 March 2027, given that R1 billion is maturing at the end of February 2025 and R1.4 billion will be maturing at 31 March 2025.
Against the backdrop of the various revitalisation initiatives which have been implemented in respect of the Company's largest asset, Fourways Mall, as well as the successful implementation of Accelerate's asset disposal plan, the board of directors believes that the Company is in good position to conclude the refinancing. The refinancing process is expected to conclude by mid to end of March 2025, after which shareholders and noteholders will be informed of the outcome of these engagements.