Series 79 practice questionhardLeveraged Recap and Credit Rating
A company’s pro forma debt/EBITDA ratio increases from 2.0x to 5.0x after a leveraged recapitalization. Which of the following is the most likely outcome regarding its credit rating?
- AThe credit rating will likely be downgraded due to increased leverage risk.✓ Correct answer
- BThe credit rating will be upgraded due to improved equity returns.
- CThere will be no change in credit rating if interest rates remain stable.
- DThe company will be ineligible to issue further equity.
Explanation
Why A — The credit rating will likely be downgraded due to increased leverage risk.
A significant increase in leverage almost always triggers a downgrade because of higher debt service risk. Improved equity returns do not offset this, and interest rate stability does not negate leverage risk.
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