Barita Investments Limited is on an upward trajectory when it comes to capital raising, especially with the current trend of decreasing interest rates that are enticing the company. The CEO of Barita, Ramon Small-Ferguson, highlighted the appeal of returning to the market for debt during an investor briefing. This move presents the opportunity to diversify the company’s liabilities, a strategic move for its growth and stability.
In the past seven years, Barita has leveraged the capital markets effectively, experiencing remarkable growth of elevenfold. Starting as a small broker with a net worth of $3 billion in 2018, it has transformed into a formidable investment banking operation valued at $35.5 billion in 2024. Alongside this impressive growth, Barita’s annual profit has soared from $363 million to $3.9 billion as of September 2024.
One key aspect that sets Barita apart is its capital structure. With capital standing at one-third of total assets, well above the regulatory minimum requirement, the company has room to potentially increase its leverage, especially in the current low-interest rate environment. Small-Ferguson emphasized Barita’s three-pronged approach to generating returns: profit margins, asset turnover, and leverage, with a particular focus on the increasing appeal of leverage.
The recent rate cuts by the central bank, bringing the rate down to 6.25 per cent, are expected to reduce borrowing costs and further enhance Barita’s position for growth. Notably, Barita was acquired by Cornerstone Group from Rita Humphries-Lewin, with the latter now owning three-quarters of the company. Humphries-Lewin had parted with her majority stake in the company in 2018 for $3 billion, followed by the sale of additional shares worth around $2 billion in 2021.
The legal dispute surrounding the second tranche of shares, initiated by Humphries-Lewin’s relatives on the grounds of her alleged incapacity due to dementia, was resolved in late October. This resolution was welcomed by Cornerstone Trust & Merchant Bank Limited’s Acting CEO, Dane Brodber, during the investor briefing. The conclusion of the matter allows the company to refocus on its core business operations, putting the longstanding issue behind them.
To sum up, Barita Investments Limited’s strategic approach to capital raising, leveraging market opportunities, and maintaining a strong financial position sets a solid foundation for its continued growth and success in the financial sector. With a keen eye on market trends and a proactive stance towards leveraging financial instruments, Barita is well-positioned for sustained growth and profitability in the ever-evolving financial landscape.
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