In statement to the Singapore Exchange PIL said it had entered into an exclusivity agreement with Helliconia Capital Management for a six-month period from 26 May about a potential investment. PIL said it would make announcements if there were any material updates or developments.
PIL said: “In light of the significant challenges facing the container shipping industry, PIL has made significant progress towards rationalising our service offerings and reducing asset costs. However, despite the company’s best efforts, the persistent COVID-19 pandemic has caused the situation to worsen over the last month.”
While discussions with Helliconia take place PIL is seeking a debt reprofiling and as part of this has received approval from holders of 97.6% of its debt for deferral of principle and interest payments until 31 December 2020, and a formal standstill on enforcement actions until 31 December 2020 or when a debt re-profiling is agreed.
PIL continues talks with two lenders represented 2.4% of its debt including one that issued a demand for payment of $12.64m on 11 May with payment in 10 days.
The company is also discussions over its financial leases and warned of a likely default under SGD60m principal amount of fixed rate bonds due in 2020.
Privately-owned by the Teo family PIL is the world’s 10th largest container line according to analysts Alphaliner.
The company is led by SS Teo, well known and respected in Singapore business circles, who has previously served in parliament as a nominated MP, as well president of the Singapore Shipping Association and chairman of the Singapore Maritime Foundation.
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