AB INBEV: Exercises option to redeem 7.20% notes due 2014

AB InBev announced it has informed holders of the 7.20% notes due 2014 (outstanding amount is $ 1.25bn) which were originally issued in January 2009 and exchanged in similar but freely tradable notes in March 2011of its intention to redeem the notes early.
As a result of this transaction, AB InBev will recognize non-recurring finance costs of about $ 180m in 2Q11 which relate to the difference between the redemption price and the amortized cost of the notes. In addition, also an incremental accretion expense and mark-to-market adjustment of approximately $ 20m will be recognized.

Our View:
Small news, this is just another example of ABI continuing to optimize the significant debt portfolio which was engaged in at the time of the AB acquisition. We will adjust our model to take into account the non-recurring financial charges and stick to our Accumulate rating and € 47 target price.