Archives: CreditSights Issuer List
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Fundamental View
AS OF 22 Dec 2025BMO is geographically diversified within Canada & via its commercial banking business in the U.S. and is also well-diversified by revenue with contribution from fee income businesses.
Credit has performed worse than peers in 2024, but losses have stabilized in 2025, based on underwriting and risk management changes in recent years as well as seasoning effects.
Business Description
AS OF 22 Dec 2025- BMO Financial Group is the third largest depository institution in Canada with C$1.48 tn in assets as of F4Q25 and a market capitalization of C$88 bn as of December 22, 2025. Total deposits were C$948 bn at F4Q25.
- BMO operates 1,890 branches in Canada and the United States. In 2025, BMO had 1,007 branches within the United States, mostly in the Midwest. BMO ranked 11th in deposit market share in the U.S. (SNL), with a top-2 share in Illinois.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 22 Dec 2025BMO has a strong core deposit base in Canada and in the U.S., which mitigates the potential for a liquidity event. BMO remains well-capitalized relative to requirements with a target CET1 ratio of 12.5%.
Credit trends have largely stabilized in 2025 following a period of elevated provisions in 2024. BMO’s reserves and capital levels all point to BMO maintaining a conservative balance sheet stance and having flexibility to manage through a more extended period of macro weakness in Canada.
We view real estate-related risk in Canada as manageable for BMO given low LTV of exposures in vulnerable markets and conservative underwriting. Commercial real estate accounts for ~10% of total loans, and office is quite manageable at ~1% of total.
BMO closed the acquisition of Bank of the West from BNP Paribas in February 2023, significantly expanding its footprint in the U.S.
Key Metric
AS OF 22 Dec 2025| $ mn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | LTM 4Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 25,788 | 34,394 | 29,260 | 32,796 | 36,277 |
| Net Income | 7,754 | 13,537 | 4,437 | 7,327 | 8,725 |
| ROAE | 1.01% | 1.01% | 1.01% | 1.01% | 1.01% |
| NIM | 1.59% | 1.59% | 1.59% | 1.59% | 1.59% |
| Net Charge-offs / Loans | 0.14% | 0.08% | 0.14% | 0.39% | 0.34% |
| Total Assets | 988,175 | 1,173,397 | 1,347,006 | 1,409,647 | 1,476,802 |
| Unsecured LT Funding | 51,915 | 64,886 | 63,418 | 115,839 | 76,889 |
| CET1 Ratio (Fully-Phased-In) | 13.7% | 16.7% | 12.5% | 13.6% | 13.3% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 25 Feb 2026We maintain our Market perform for BMO, with our preference within the group remaining to trade up in quality to RBC and TD. Asset quality metrics have shown incremental stabilization in recent quarters following surprising deterioration throughout the latter part of F2024 and early F2025, which was mainly driven by the underperformance of a few commercial credits originated during COVID. Credit provisions have also declined by ~50% from the peak level in F4Q24 while allowance coverage remains robust. BMO’s business model is more commercial-oriented than its peers, and profitability remains strong, with Capital Markets and Wealth Management segments providing a significant uplift to overall revenues in recent quarters.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 25, 2026
Recommendation Changed: August 26, 2020
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Fundamental View
AS OF 19 Dec 2025Meta delivered strong revenue growth in its 3Q25 results and 4Q25 guidance, which were both above consensus expectations. However, total expenses are now expected to grow “significantly” faster in 2026 relative to the 22-24% YoY implied growth in 2025. Also, capex will have “notably larger” dollar growth in 2026. We estimate this could imply $115-120 capex or ~50% of sales in 2026. As a result, we expect FCF to be pressured in 2026.
Meta just launched $30 bn IG bonds which is on the heels of the recent $27 bn off balance sheet Meta JV bond deal. Pro forma for $30 bn issuance, gross leverage is 0.5x (0.2x at 3Q25) and lease-adjusted leverage is 0.7x (0.4x at 3Q25). Net cash was $15.6 bn at 3Q25. Meta recently prevailed in the FTC’s monopoly litigation.
Business Description
AS OF 19 Dec 2025- Meta Platforms is the largest social networking company in the world. Meta's advertising revenue is primarily from Facebook and Instagram, although also on Messenger, Whatsapp, Threads, and third-party affiliated websites and apps.
- In 3Q25, Family of Apps was 99% of revenue (97.7% from advertising and 1.3% from other) and Reality Labs was 1% of revenue. Reality Labs generated $18.1 bn in operating losses during LTM 3Q25.
- There are 3.54 bn Family Daily Active People (DAP) as of 3Q25, and the Family Average Revenue per Person (ARPP) was $14.46 quarterly in 3Q25.
- Meta is headquartered in Menlo Park, California. Employee headcount was >78.4k at 3Q25.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 19 Dec 2025We continue to expect Meta to be a regular/annual issuer to fund its shareholder returns, operating losses in Reality Labs, and substantial investments in AI.
Meta recently prevailed in the FTC’s monopoly litigation. In December 2020, the FTC filed a lawsuit against Meta seeking to unwind prior acquisitions of Instagram and Whatsapp.
Meta’s business model relies almost entirely on user-generated content, exposing it to customer privacy concerns and regulatory scrutiny in the US and Europe.
Key Metric
AS OF 19 Dec 2025| $ mn | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | LTM 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue YoY % | 37.2% | (1.1%) | 15.7% | 21.9% | 21.3% |
| EBITDA | 63,882 | 49,622 | 71,955 | 101,568 | 118,359 |
| EBITDA Margin | 54.2% | 42.6% | 53.3% | 61.7% | 62.5% |
| CapEx % of Sales | 16.3% | 27.5% | 20.8% | 23.8% | 34.3% |
| Sh. Ret. % of CFO-CapEx | 116% | 152% | 46% | 68% | 74% |
| Net Debt | (47,998) | (30,815) | (47,018) | (48,989) | (15,614) |
| Gross Leverage | 0.0x | 0.2x | 0.3x | 0.3x | 0.2x |
| EV / EBITDA | 14.0x | 5.8x | 12.3x | 14.5x | 15.8x |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 25 Feb 2026Meta’s advertising revenue growth has been impressive in recent years. However, the company is spending heavily on both capex for AI infrastructure and operating losses in Reality Labs. In addition, its AI models have lagged US peers. Capex is guided for $115-135 bn in 2026, which is up substantially from $72 bn in 2025. Gross lease-adjusted leverage increased to 0.7x at 4Q25 driven by its $30 bn bond deal. We are concerned that another jumbo bond deal will lead to technical pressure on its bonds and worsening credit metrics. Meta commented it might eventually move into a net debt position, which reflects a change in its financial policy. We recently highlighted this as a potential risk that could lead to ratings downgrades. Meta continues to face legal and regulatory headwinds.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 25, 2026
Recommendation Changed: July 31, 2025
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Fundamental View
AS OF 19 Dec 2025We continue to have confidence in CEO Andy Jassy and the company’s long-term business for both AWS and Stores. AWS is a $132 bn run-rate business growing at 20% with GAAP operating margins in the 30s%. The 3Q25 results and commentary supports our view that Amazon will be a winner in Generative AI given the breadth of its cloud business, custom silicon (Trainium), and Bedrock service.
While AMZN’s capex has been ramping, along with other hyperscalers, we are encouraged by its debt reduction over the past few years and zero shareholder returns. There are risks related to its ongoing FTC suit although we view a breakup as unlikely. Pro forma for $15 bn issuance and $1.25 bn upcoming maturity, gross lease-adjusted leverage will increase by one tick to 1.0x.
Business Description
AS OF 19 Dec 2025- Amazon is an e-commerce company which sells a wide range of its own products and those of 3rd party sellers. Amazon offers fulfillment services for 3rd party sellers (FBA) and sells cloud computing services (AWS). In 3Q25, 3rd party units were 62% of total paid units, and FBA units are a majority of 3rd party units.
- In LTM 3Q25, NA segment was 60% of sales, International was 22% of sales, and AWS was 18% of sales.
- Amazon disclosed it surpassed 200 mn Prime members in April 2021. The annual membership was increased in February 2022 from $119 to $139 in the US, although fees vary by country. In mid-2019, Amazon Prime began to transition from 2-day to 1-day shipping. Amazon Prime also offers Prime Video, streaming music, and other benefits.
- In 2006, Amazon launched AWS which remains the leader in cloud computing (IaaS/PaaS). Amazon sells its own devices (e-reader, smart speaker, streaming media player, etc.).
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 19 Dec 2025We think Amazon has moderate event risk given its large size (~$2.4 tn market cap).
Amazon’s capex has been ramping for AI cloud infrastructure, which could lead to more jumbo bond deals in 2026.
In September 2023, the FTC and a consortium of states filed a lawsuit against Amazon and accused the company of (1) punishing sellers for offering lower prices elsewhere and (2) making Prime eligibility conditional on usage of fulfillment services. Motions for summary judgment are not due until August 2026 with a trial scheduled for February 2027. The biggest risk would be a breakup, although we view that as unlikely.
Amazon’s $14 bn acquisition of Whole Foods has shown its proclivity for large M&A.
Key Metric
AS OF 19 Dec 2025| $ mn | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | LTM 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue YoY % | 37.6% | 21.7% | 9.4% | 11.8% | 11.0% | 11.5% |
| EBITDA | 57,284 | 71,994 | 74,593 | 110,305 | 144,162 | 161,740 |
| EBITDA Margin | 14.8% | 15.3% | 14.5% | 19.2% | 22.6% | 23.4% |
| CapEx % of Sales | 12.1% | 13.3% | 11.5% | 8.5% | 12.3% | 17.1% |
| Sh. Ret. % of CFO-CapEx | 0% | 0% | n/m | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Net Debt | (50,497) | (44,453) | 8,516 | (19,451) | (43,051) | (38,880) |
| Gross Leverage | 0.6x | 0.7x | 1.1x | 0.6x | 0.4x | 0.3x |
| EV / EBITDA | 28.3x | 23.3x | 11.7x | 14.4x | 16.1x | 14.5x |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 11 Mar 2026Pro forma for ~$49 bn bonds ($37 bn US$ notes and expected €10 bn notes), we estimate lease-adjusted gross leverage will increase by roughly a quarter-turn to 1.2x. Amazon announced a $50 bn investment in OpenAI (including $35 bn contingent) at a $730 bn pre-money valuation. In addition, Amazon unveiled guidance for $200 bn capex in 2026, which was substantially above expectations. However, Amazon has zero shareholder returns, and we continue to have confidence in CEO Andy Jassy and the company’s long-term business for both AWS and Stores. We expect Amazon to be a winner in AI given the breadth of its cloud business, custom silicon, and Bedrock service.
Recommendation Reviewed: March 11, 2026
Recommendation Changed: May 01, 2024
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Fundamental View
AS OF 19 Dec 2025Macquarie was tested during the global financial crisis, but managed to steer through the crisis without reporting losses. A strong balance sheet mitigated liquidity problems, but its banking unit had to turn to Australia’s central bank at that time for support.
The group has an impressive track record of managing risks and achieving good returns, and has built capabilities in a number of areas. Divestments are controlled based on market conditions. It was a beneficiary of market volatility in the commodity space in FY23-24. Its Australian mortgage book has also shown strong but sensible growth.
Business Description
AS OF 19 Dec 2025- Macquarie grew out of the Australian business of Hill Samuel, which commenced operations in 1969. Macquarie Group Ltd (MGL) is the holding company and listed entity, under which there is the banking group Macquarie Bank Ltd (MBL) which consists of the Banking & Financial Services (BFS) and Commodities & Global Markets (CGM) businesses, and a non-banking group which consists of the Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) and Macquarie Capital (MC) businesses.
- From the 1990s, the group has been associated with the "Macquarie Model" which focused on identifying cash-generating infrastructure assets & packaging them into funds that could be sold, with Macquarie taking fees as banker, arranger and asset manager.
- It acquired asset managers including Delaware Investments in the US and Blackmont Capital in Canada, boutique investment bank Fox-Pitt Kelton and specialists such as Tristone Energy (Canada). It acquired US asset manager, Waddell & Reed in April 2021, which added around US$76 bn of assets under management. It has recently sold its public AM business in the US and Europe to Nomura. Adjusting for the Nomura transaction, MAM has AUM of A$720 bn.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 19 Dec 2025Macquarie Group has sizable exposure to credit and equity risk, and so could be adversely impacted by falls in asset prices. In addition, volatile/weak markets could and has impeded its ability to exit some of its investments.
Its earnings profile partially depends on exits and therefore is lumpy in nature. It has till recently managed this risk well, but we are now cautious about its declining group capital surplus (it does not commit to a minimum level).
It is a global leader in infra investments and is well positioned for the green transition (though recently selling down these assets has proved difficult). It has been a strong beneficiary of volatility in commodity markets, a testament to its risk management capabilities.
Its banking unit was subject to enforcement action in Apr-21 by APRA over the incorrect treatment of intra-group funding arrangements resulting in an A$500 mn operational risk overlay as well as LCR and NSFR add-ons. The CGM unit also saw higher regulatory remediation-related spend more recently.
Key Metric
AS OF 19 Dec 2025| AUD mn | FY23 | FY24 | FY25 | 1H26 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Income | 19,576 | 17,071 | 17,569 | 8,720 |
| Cost/Income | 62.0% | 71.4% | 70.5% | 71.8% |
| Net Profit | 5,182 | 3,522 | 3,715 | 1,655 |
| Return on Equity | 16.9% | 10.8% | 11.2% | 9.6% |
| Total Impairments/Op Profit | 6.1% | (7.4%) | 6.6% | 1.2% |
| Annuity Business Profit Contribution | 34.2% | 36.5% | 43.6% | 51.9% |
| MBL CET1 Ratio (APRA) | 13.7% | 13.6% | 12.8% | 12.4% |
| MBL Liquidity Coverage Ratio | 214% | 191% | 175% | 173% |
| MBL Net Stable Funding Ratio | 124% | 115% | 113% | 113% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 11 Feb 2026Macquarie has a strong record of profitability since its inception. Its AM business focused on infrastructure, including green assets, is a global leader. It manages risks and returns effectively, and in FY22+23 was a large beneficiary of O&G and power price volatility. The Aus banking business has steadily gained mortgage marketshare. Large investment disposals from AM and Macquarie Capital led to a record year in FY22; strong commodities outperformance led to another record in FY23. FY24 income was affected by asset realisations and gas & power income. FY25 was helped by asset sales, 1H26 was just 3% up YoY but 3Q was better. Group capital surplus is falling but is comfortable at the bank level. ALM is conservative. Senior spreads at both bank and group are tight.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 11, 2026
Recommendation Changed: February 11, 2026
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Fundamental View
AS OF 17 Dec 2025- PLN enjoys extremely strong ties with the Government of Indonesia (GoI) given its critical policy role of electrifying the nation. Post the launch of Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund Danantara, PLN is now indirectly owned by the GoI through Danantara.
- PLN delivered a robust set of 1H25 results, with total revenue and EBITDA up 5% and 9% YoY respectively driven by resilient power demand across Indonesia
- Looking ahead, we expect PLN’s credit metrics to improve in FY25 supported by higher YoY EBITDA, though partially weighed upon by higher capex; we anticipate FY25 EBITDA growth to be in the mid to high single-digit % YoY, mainly attributable to Indonesia’s healthy economic growth, supporting power demand; we also expect power tariffs to remain flat.
Business Description
AS OF 17 Dec 2025- PLN is involved in the entire electricity value-chain, from power generation, to transmission, distribution and retail.
- It alone accounts for 76% (~47 GW) of Indonesia's generation capacity (of which 8 GW is renewable capacity), while IPPs provide the remainder.
- The company controls and operates the entire transmission and distribution network in the country. It is the sole buyer of electricity produced by IPPs, through power purchase agreements (PPAs).
- It sells electricity to well-diversified off-takers – 41% to households, 25% to industrial customers, 21% to businesses and 12% to others.
- Since 2015, the GoI has gradually implemented monthly tariff adjustments for 13 customer groups, so that rates charged to customers are better matched with production costs.
- However, under the Public Service Obligation (PSO), the company will continue to sell electricity at subsidized rates of 50% to 450-volt amperes (VA) power households and 25% to 900 VA power households. The GoI subsequently reimburses the company for the difference between the subsidized tariff rate and production cost, typically within 2-3 months.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 17 Dec 2025- The company provides subsidized electricity to certain households for which it subsequently receives reimbursements from the GoI; though these payments tend to get delayed during major events such as COVID-19 pandemic.
- In order to increase the country’s electrification ratio to 97%, the company had been mandated by the GoI to develop large electricity capacities through the Fast Track II and 35,000 MW Programs. Implementation of such complex programs has required significant capital expenditure, which has led PLN’s FCF to fall deep into the red in recent years and created a funding gap.
- The success of the above programs is also contingent on the company’s ability to source coal cheaply, select quality contractors, acquire land rights and receive adequate subsidy reimbursements from the GoI.
- Being primarily a thermal power producer, PLN may be viewed unfavourably from an ESG perspective.
Key Metric
AS OF 17 Dec 2025| IDR bn | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 1H24 | 1H25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt to Book Cap | 28.9% | 27.8% | 27.3% | 27.5% | 27.2% |
| Net Debt to Book Cap | 25.2% | 23.7% | 23.0% | 25.4% | 23.9% |
| Debt/Total Equity | 40.7% | 38.5% | 37.5% | 38.0% | 37.3% |
| Debt/Total Assets | 24.6% | 23.4% | 22.5% | 22.9% | 22.1% |
| Gross Leverage | 4.1x | 4.1x | 3.6x | 4.1x | 3.4x |
| Net Leverage | 3.5x | 3.5x | 3.0x | 3.8x | 3.0x |
| Interest Coverage | 4.5x | 3.7x | 3.9x | 3.4x | 3.9x |
| EBITDA Margin | 31.2% | 27.6% | 30.4% | 29.8% | 30.9% |
CreditSights View
AS OF 27 Jan 2026PLN (Perusahaan Listrik Negara) is a resilient, quasi-sovereign utility, making it a core defensive recommendation primarily due to its monopolistic dominance and critical role in powering Indonesia’s economy. The company’s credit strength is built on foundational operations across the entire electricity value chain—generation, transmission, and distribution—providing predictable cash flows and protection through established government subsidy mechanisms. Complementing this stability is its strategic alignment with national development goals, now reinforced by its indirect ownership under the sovereign wealth fund, Danantara, which supports its capital-intensive transition toward renewable energy and the ambitious 2034 power supply plan. This deep integration with the state not only mitigates execution risks associated with its elevated capital expenditures but also ensures robust financial backing, allowing PLN to sustain healthy credit metrics—recently improving net leverage to 3.0x—positioning it to benefit substantially from Indonesia’s resilient power demand and long-term economic expansion.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 27, 2026
Recommendation Changed: December 06, 2024
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Fundamental View
AS OF 11 Dec 2025SBUX operates and licenses Starbucks cafe locations. The company is current midway through a restaurant revamp aimed at boosting traffic following weak results in 2024. The program aims at improving the in-store coffee shop experience by investing in labor and reducing the prioritization of takeaway.
The turnaround program has a large labor investment component that is weighing on margins. The company has a strong cash flow cushion and management has committed to high-BBB ratings, but leverage has crept to levels above the ratings range.
A JV deal with Boyu Capital, a Chinese private equity firm, is aimed to turn operations around in a struggling Chinese market, by both improving in-store experience and local relevance, and by expanding locations.
Business Description
AS OF 11 Dec 2025- SBUX is a leading coffee roaster and retailer. The company operates and licenses over 40,000 Starbucks locations worldwide where it sells premium coffee beverages as well as other specialty drinks and prepared foods. Slightly over half the locations are company operated (52%) and the rest are licensed to third party operators.
- In F2025, SBUX generated $37.2 bn in revenue and $5.5 bn in adjusted EBITDA. SBUX has three reporting segments: N. America (74% of F2024 revenue), which covers cafes in the U.S. and Canada; International (21%), which includes China, Japan, Latin America, and EMEA; and Channel Development (5.0%) which includes revenue from other branded products sold outside retail locations through partnerships with large consumer companies such as Nestle and PepsiCo.
- On a geographic basis, SBUX's two largest regions are the U.S. (47% of cafes), and China (37%).
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 11 Dec 2025SBUX entered an agreement to form a JV with Boyu Capital to operate the company’s retail coffee business in China. The deal is expected to finalize in F2Q26, and the company did not explicitly state where proceeds would be allocated.
In response to the activist attacks, SBUX announced an unexpected change in CEO and hired Brian Niccol, a veteran of the quick service restaurant industry with a successful track record at Taco Bell and Chipotle.
Lower discretionary spending in the U.S. could continue to weigh on SBUX’s sales outlook. We view its premium-priced beverage offerings as having significant risk of consumer trade down into more value-oriented options.
Investments behind the company’s new store imaging have increased costs and weighed on margins, in large part due to significant investments in labor.
Key Metric
AS OF 11 Dec 2025| $ mn | Y21 | Y22 | Y23 | Y24 | LTM 4Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 29,061 | 32,250 | 35,976 | 36,176 | 37,184 |
| EBITDA | 6,775 | 6,385 | 7,252 | 7,001 | 5,463 |
| EBITDA Margin | 23.3% | 19.8% | 20.2% | 19.4% | 14.7% |
| EBITDA-Capex to Revenue | 18.3% | 14.1% | 13.7% | 11.7% | 8.5% |
| Total Debt | 14,616 | 15,044 | 15,400 | 15,568 | 16,075 |
| Net Debt | 8,160 | 12,226 | 11,848 | 12,282 | 12,855 |
| Net Leverage | 1.2x | 1.9x | 1.6x | 1.8x | 2.4x |
| Lease Adjusted Debt to EBITDAR | 2.9x | 3.1x | 2.8x | 3.0x | 3.7x |
| EV / EBITDA | 20.4x | 17.1x | 16.1x | 17.6x | 20.0x |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 29 Jan 2026SBUX is in the midst of an operational turnaround plan intent on reigniting foot traffic by improving the in-store experience. The “Back to Starbucks” program has come at the expense of margin due to heavy investments in labor. While the plan is ultimately to increase transactions and tickets due to improved experiences, we are skeptical that the company will be able to recoup the margin. Also, the strategy comes at a time when economic uncertainty could weigh on discretionary purchases. Management has committed to high-BBB ratings, but the margin compression is driving leverage creep. We recommend a wait and see approach to the name and favor McDonald’s bonds in the meanwhile.
Recommendation Reviewed: January 29, 2026
Recommendation Changed: May 01, 2024
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Hyundai Motor
Republic of the Philippines
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Fundamental View
AS OF 09 Dec 2025Petron’s delivered a robust set of result in 9M25; we expect Petron’s credit metrics to improve YoY, driven by improvement in its EBITDA and lower debt. We expect FY25 EBITDA to improve YoY owing to double-digit YoY-decline in crude oil input costs in FY25, though partially offset by a single-digit YoY decline in sales volume.
About two-third of its total revenues are derived from the Philippines and are indexed to Dubai crude prices, which allows for smooth cost pass-throughs and good insulation from crude price volatility.
Free cash flows are typically negative due to inventory fluctuations that outweigh low capex.
Business Description
AS OF 09 Dec 2025- Petron is the largest oil refining and retailing company in the Philippines, and the third largest player in Malaysia. It maintains a 24% market share in the Philippines (followed by Shell and Caltex) and a 20% market share in Malaysia (largest being Petronas), based on total fuel sales volumes.
- Petron has a total refining capacity of 268k barrels/day (bpd) and accounts for about 30% of the Philippines' fuel needs. Its petroleum refining facilities include the Limay Refinery in Bataan, Philippines (capacity of 180k bpd; 67% of total) and the Port Dickson Refinery in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia (capacity of 88k bpd; remaining 33% of total).
- Petron's refineries process crude oil into a full range of petroleum products including gasoline, diesel, LPG, jet fuel, kerosene and petrochemicals.
- It further markets and retails these fuel products through its fuel service stations located across the Philippines (~1,800 outlets) and Malaysia (>800 outlets).
- Petron sources its crude oil supplies from third-party suppliers, namely Saudi Aramco, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation and Exxon Mobil, which are bought on the basis of term contracts and in the spot market.
- Petron mainly supplies its petroleum and fuel products to customers in Malaysia and the Philippines (~95% of annual revenue).
- Petron is 68% owned by San Miguel Corporation (SMC), one of the largest and most diversified conglomerates in the Philippines based on total revenues and assets. SMC's CEO, Mr. Ramon Ang, is also Petron's CEO.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 09 Dec 2025Petron cannot fully pass on higher crude oil input costs to customers in Malaysia.
Petron operates in low-margin business (EBITDA margins ~5%) and maintains elevated credit metrics.
Petron is highly dependent on its Limay petroleum refining complex that makes up two-thirds of its total refining capacity (67%). Any events that disrupt the refinery’s operations could adversely affect Petron’s total revenues.
Key Metric
AS OF 09 Dec 2025| PHP bn | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 3Q24 | 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt to Book Cap | 74.0% | 75.1% | 74.5% | 70.8% | 71.0% |
| Net Debt to Book Cap | 65.5% | 68.2% | 67.1% | 59.7% | 60.7% |
| Debt/Total Equity | 284.2% | 301.4% | 292.0% | 242.0% | 245.0% |
| Debt/Total Assets | 70.2% | 67.6% | 64.9% | 63.6% | 61.9% |
| Gross Leverage | 10.9x | 7.1x | 7.4x | 7.9x | 6.0x |
| Net Leverage | 9.7x | 6.4x | 6.7x | 6.7x | 5.1x |
| Interest Coverage | 2.2x | 2.2x | 1.9x | 1.8x | 2.4x |
| EBITDA Margin | 3.4% | 5.3% | 4.7% | 3.8% | 7.1% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 10 Mar 2026We maintain our Outperform recommendation on Petron (nomenclature changed from prefer c.2028 perp to O/P as its other c.2026 perp is called). We continue to like Petron’s c.2028 for its relatively high coupon and high carry. Overall, we think Petron is a stable credit with an improving credit outlook. We like its full cost passthroughs for its operations in retail O&G in the Philippines, low capex, consistently improving net leverage metric (LTM 1H25: 6x), manageable debt maturity profile, proven willingness/ability to call back its perps by their first call date, strong parental support from the domestically well-reputed San Miguel Group and a 3-year tenor to first call that limits duration risk.
Recommendation Reviewed: March 10, 2026
Recommendation Changed: March 10, 2026
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Fundamental View
AS OF 28 Nov 2025We maintain our O/P recommendation on Tencent. In 3Q25, revenues accelerated and were ahead of expectations, EBITDA margin expanded on an improved revenue mix, FOCF remained robust, debt metrics improved. We view Tencent as a core holding in China and Asia IG credits, and it is our preferred duration play. While valuations of Tencent is less compelling compared to YE24, its longer duration bonds still offer ~20 bp of spread pick up against Chinese SOEs of similar tenors. We like Tencent’s strong and improving credit outlook compared to its Chinese tech peers, rock solid balance sheet and robust free operating cash flow. We prefer its 2041 bond which offer the highest 20-35 bp spread pick up against Asia A corporate and Chinese SOEs
Business Description
AS OF 28 Nov 2025- Founded in November 1998, Tencent is a leading provider of Internet value added services in China. Since its establishment, Tencent has ventured into instant messaging, social networking, online payments, digital entertainment, and PC and smartphone gaming. Most recently, it has also forayed into high-tech areas such as artificial intelligence, and cloud computing.
- Tencent's leading Internet platforms in China include Weixin/WeChat (online messaging), QQ Instant Messenger (online messaging), Tencent Games (gaming), Tencent Video/Weixin Video Accounts (video platforms), WeChat Pay (payments), and Tencent Cloud. The combined monthly average users (MAU) of Weixin and Wechat reached 1.40 bn as of 31 March 2025.
- In 3Q25, 50% of revenues came from Value Added Services (which consist of Domestic Games, International Games, and Social Networks), 30% came from FinTech and Business Services (e.g. commercial payments and cloud), and 19% from Online Advertising.
- Tencent is currently primarily listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with a market capitalization of HKD 5.6 tn as of 27 November 2025.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 28 Nov 2025While Chinese regulators have adopted a more friendly stance towards tech companies, any regulatory clampdowns abroad and domestically (e.g. antitrust rules, data security, personal information protection laws) may affect Tencent’s business. Tencent’s gaming, music streaming, and online payment units are among those that have come under regulatory scrutiny in the past.
Tencent uses variable interest entities (VIEs) to circumvent China’s restrictions on foreign ownership of Internet Content Providers, which poses regulatory risks. Specifically, VIE transactions involving “change in control” will be subject to antitrust regulatory processes.
US-China tension may escalate under the new Trump Administration, including additional chip sanctions, which may result in higher volatility. Failing to secure a stable supply of advanced AI chips and/(or) find domestic alternatives could weigh on the long-term AI development of Tencent against international peers.
Key Metric
AS OF 28 Nov 2025| RMB bn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | LTM 3Q25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt to Book Cap | 27.0% | 31.4% | 29.8% | 25.4% | 24.5% |
| Net Debt to Book Cap | 6.0% | 8.5% | 1.0% | 2.3% | 1.4% |
| Debt/Total Equity | 36.9% | 45.9% | 42.5% | 34.0% | 32.5% |
| Debt/Total Assets | 20.1% | 22.8% | 23.5% | 20.1% | 19.7% |
| Gross Leverage | 1.7x | 1.9x | 1.6x | 1.3x | 1.2x |
| Net Leverage | 0.4x | 0.5x | 0.1x | 0.1x | 0.1x |
| Interest Coverage | 24.7x | 19.0x | 19.9x | 22.5x | 24.4x |
| EBITDA Margin | 34.9% | 34.3% | 38.9% | 42.4% | 45.0% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 14 Nov 2025We maintain our O/P recommendation on Tencent. In 3Q25, revenues accelerated and were ahead of expectations, EBITDA margin expanded on an improved revenue mix, FOCF remained robust, debt metrics improved. We view Tencent as a core holding in China and Asia IG credits, and it is our preferred duration play. While valuations of Tencent is less compelling compared to YE24, its longer duration bonds still offer ~20 bp of spread pick up against Chinese SOEs of similar tenors. We like Tencent’s strong and improving credit outlook compared to its Chinese tech peers, rock solid balance sheet and robust free operating cash flow. We prefer its 2041 bond which offer the highest 20-35 bp spread pick up against Asia A corporate and Chinese SOEs
Recommendation Reviewed: November 14, 2025
Recommendation Changed: August 18, 2022
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Fundamental View
AS OF 27 Nov 2025Rural Electrification Corp Ltd (REC) is an important public sector enterprise as it is the government’s key strategic partner for driving reforms and developments in the power sector, and providing financing to weaker players (particularly distribution companies or “discoms”) to prevent liquidity disruptions to the sector, similar to its parent Power Finance Corp’s (PFC) mandate.
We view REC’s credit profile as underpinned by strong state support due to its majority 52.63% ownership by PFC, which is in turn 55.99% owned by the government of India (GoI), as well as the key role that it plays in an essential sector of the country.
REC is rated in line with both its parent, PFC, and the Indian sovereign at the international credit rating agencies.
Business Description
AS OF 27 Nov 2025- Established in 1969, Rural Electrification Corp Ltd (REC) is an important public sector enterprise of the Government of India (GoI) due to its mandate of helping to support the country's power sector initiatives. It has been designated as a systematically important NBFC by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
- REC went public on the Indian stock exchanges in 2008 but continued to be majority owned by the GoI until March 2019, where the GoI sold its 52.63% shareholding in REC to Power Finance Corp (PFC) for INR 145 bn as part of the GoI's efforts to monetise its shareholding in different public sector enterprises; PFC is in turn 56% owned by the GoI. REC’s non-PFC shareholding is broadly similar to that of its parent, with a 20% share of foreign portfolio investors, 12% individuals, 9% mutual funds, and 6% others.
- REC has continued to be run as a standalone institution despite PFC's majority ownership in the entity.
- Similar to its parent, REC primarily provides funding to the public sector (~86% of its loan book) while the private sector is ~14%. By segment, Transmission & Distribution (T&D) is the largest part of the loan asset mix at 49%, followed by conventional and renewable energy generation at 27% and 12% respectively, while Infrastructure (10%) and Others (3%) round up the rest.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 27 Nov 2025Given its mandate, REC has concentrated loan exposure to the power sector which is also chunky in nature; power generation projects typically involve large upfront borrowing and have long gestation periods before the projects become operational. Resolutions of stressed exposures have been with delays due to India’s slow moving Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code (IBC) regime despite the ongoing NCLT reforms, but are gaining traction. Earlier lumpy provisioning and now meaningful reversals are the result.
Asset quality risk is also mitigated by a majority public sector exposure; while many state government discoms are in poor health, REC can get funds meant for the states through the GoI/RBI if payments are overdue.
Like most NBFCs, REC is reliant on the confidence sensitive wholesale market for funding. However, its quasi-government status enables it to have diversified funding sources (onshore and offshore) at costs that are close to the sovereign.
Key Metric
AS OF 27 Nov 2025| INR mn | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | FY25 | 1H26 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NIM | 4.07% | 3.38% | 3.57% | 3.63% | 3.64% |
| PPP ROAA | 3.91% | 3.17% | 3.24% | 3.60% | 3.42% |
| ROAA | 2.47% | 2.53% | 2.77% | 2.71% | 2.83% |
| ROE (Reported) | 21.3% | 20.4% | 22.2% | 21.5% | 22.1% |
| Total Equity/Total Assets | 12.42% | 12.41% | 12.56% | 12.65% | 12.94% |
| Tier 1 Ratio | 19.6% | 22.8% | 23.3% | 23.8% | 21.7% |
| Total Capital Ratio | 23.6% | 25.8% | 25.8% | 26.0% | 23.7% |
| Gross NPA Ratio | 4.45% | 3.42% | 2.71% | 1.35% | 1.06% |
| Provisions/Avg Loans | 0.91% | 0.03% | (0.29%) | 0.19% | (0.17%) |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 09 Feb 2026REC is 52.63% owned by PFC and along with its parent is one of two policy NBFIs that provides funding for power generation and T&D projects, lending largely to state government utilities (86% of loans) vs. the private sector (14%). Operating performance was on an uptrend in recent years, supported by a material improvement in asset quality and resolution of past stressed assets. Margin expansion since FY23 and robust loan growth also supported a strong topline. Growth momentum however is slowing on higher pre-payments and margins have steadied. The CAR ratio is ~24%. Although a number of state government utilities are in poor health, the NBFIs can get funds meant for the states through the GoI/RBI if they don’t get paid in time.
Recommendation Reviewed: February 09, 2026
Recommendation Changed: May 22, 2025
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Fundamental View
AS OF 26 Nov 2025After reorganising and building up capital for the full impact of Basel 3, SMFG has recently been acquisitive to develop its next phase of growth, and now has a lower capital buffer than Mizuho.
It has a strong retail, mid and large corporate franchise in Japan, but its securities arm SMBC Nikko punches below weight.
Given its size and systemic importance, SMFG is considered too big to fail, and will be supported by the Japanese government if needed.
Business Description
AS OF 26 Nov 2025- The core unit of SMFG is Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp (SMBC), whose main predecessors were Sumitomo Bank and Mitsui Bank.
- SMFG's group companies include the securities firm SMBC Nikko, SMBC Trust Bank, SMBC Card Company, SMBC Consumer Finance, Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing, SMFG India Credit Company (SMICC), Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management, and SMBC Aviation Capital.
- SMFG does not have a large trust business as Sumitomo Trust and Chuo Mitsui Trust chose not to join SMFG, but merged with each other to form the separate Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings.
- It has been acquisitive over the years, particularly in emerging Asia and leasing assets. In 2021, the group took a 49% stake in Vietnam's FE Credit, 74.9% of Indian NBFI Fullerton Capital (now called SMICC), 4.99% of Philippines' RCBC, and 4.5% of US investment bank Jefferies. In 2022, it increased its stake in RCBC to 20%. In 2023, it acquired a 15% stake in Vietnam's VP Bank, and increased its stake in Jefferies from 4.5% to 15%, and in 2024 took its stake in SMICC to 100%. In 2025 it took a 24% stake in India's Yes Bank, and increased its Jefferies stake to 20%.
Risk & Catalysts
AS OF 26 Nov 2025SMFG has the strongest Japan retail franchise amongst its peers, and a very strong corporate banking franchise.
Similar to the other megabanks, SMFG aims to focus more on the US, and reduce low return RWAs in Europe and Asia ex-Japan.
SMFG has made a number of acquisitions and taken stakes in banks and NBFIs in Vietnam, the Philippines, India and Indonesia. The group took JPY 135 bn of goodwill impairments in FY24 on its Vietnam investments. RoE on these investments has been poor.
It has increased its 15% stake in Jefferies to 20%, to develop revenue opportunities for SMBC Nikko. Further investments in SMBC Nikko will be required.
Its CET1 ratio buffer is ~200 bp, which we would like to see maintained.
Key Metric
AS OF 26 Nov 2025| JPY bn | FY21 | FY22 | FY23 | FY24 | 1H25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net Interest Revenue/Average Assets | 0.64% | 0.68% | 0.70% | 0.82% | 0.88% |
| Operating Income/Average Assets | 1.23% | 1.26% | 1.39% | 1.44% | 1.58% |
| Operating Expense/Operating Income | 62% | 61% | 60% | 58% | 53% |
| Pre-Impairment Operating Profit / Average Assets | 0.48% | 0.51% | 0.58% | 0.60% | 0.79% |
| Impairment charge/Average Loans | (0.31%) | (0.22%) | (0.27%) | (0.32%) | (0.16%) |
| ROAA | 0.30% | 0.32% | 0.36% | 0.41% | 0.64% |
| ROAE | 5.9% | 6.5% | 7.0% | 8.0% | 12.5% |
CreditSight View Comment
AS OF 05 Mar 2026SMFG has a strong banking business but the performance of non-bank subsidiaries has been variable. Its markets business, particularly internationally, is sub scale. The group became acquisitive from 2021, taking a 49% stake in a leading Vietnamese NBFI and 15% of its parent (VP Bank), 20% of RCBC of the Philippines, 74.9% of NBFI Fullerton India (now 100%), 4.5% in US IB Jefferies (increasing to 20%), and 24% of India’s Yes Bank for the next stage of growth. Its high CET1 ratio has been whittled down by acquisitions. FY24 results were boosted by share sales and structured investment trusts, 9M25 showed a large jump on base effects. Govt. support is assured. We move it to O/P as we see 10 bp of upside. We see FV for its 6NC5 at 2 bp behind MUFG’s, which in turn should be flat to JPM.
Recommendation Reviewed: March 05, 2026
Recommendation Changed: March 05, 2026
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Hyundai Motor
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