What Are Fixed-Rate Capital Securities (FRCS)?

Fixed-rate capital securities (FRCS) are a type of hybrid security issued by corporations that combines features of both corporate bonds and preferred shares. FRCSs usually have a lower par value than traditional bonds and provide investors with a consistent flow of dividend income. Although FRCSs are generally rated as investment grade, they are riskier than corporate bonds and trade in less liquid markets.

Basics

Enter the realm of Fixed-Rate Capital Assurances (FRCAs), financial instruments crafted by corporations, denominated at $25 (although select editions bear a $1,000 par denomination), amalgamating the attributes of corporate bonds and preferred stock. This category of securities bestows upon investors a bouquet of enticing advantages:

1. Steady income, furnished on a monthly, quarterly, or semiannual basis.
2. Predictable investment horizons spanning between 20 to 49 years and, in some instances, perpetuity.
3. Primarily holding an investment-grade credit standing in most occurrences.

Exploring Fixed-Rate Capital Hybrids (FRCH)

Fixed-Rate Capital Hybrids represent a distinctive financial blend with their categorization as debt or equity contingent upon the prospectus presentation. Notably, rating agencies have favored this financing instrument for issuers, as it extends long-term capital avenues and allows for potential interest payment deferrals to investors in case of issuer financial distress.

Nevertheless, akin to preferred stock, these interest deferrals are contingent upon the cessation of all other stock dividend disbursements by the parent company. Consequently, investors should be aware that holding FRCH does not guarantee income, especially in the event of issuer financial turmoil. The interest deferral provision accentuates the security's risk profile compared to preferred stock and corporate bonds, delivering heightened yields to investors.

Both new issuances and secondary market offerings of FRCH find listings on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and are also amenable to over-the-counter (OTC) trading. In the secondary markets, their trading behavior parallels conventional bonds, commanding premiums or discounts concerning the stated coupon rate relative to prevailing interest rates and contingent upon the market's perceptions of issuer creditworthiness.

Distinctive FRCS Risks

Fixed-rate capital securities (FRCS) come with unique risks that distinguish them from common and preferred stock dividends. The issuer enjoys the tax-deductible status of the distributions, akin to the treatment of interest payments on traditional debt instruments. However, a shift in tax legislation that diminishes or eliminates this advantage can trigger a "special event" or extraordinary redemption option, enabling the issuer to redeem the securities at their liquidation value before maturity.

FRCS undergoes credit quality assessments from major rating agencies, such as Standard & Poor's and Moody's. Those with lower credit ratings offer higher yields to investors as compensation for perceived risks. Nonetheless, the majority of FRCS maintain investment-grade ratings.

It is crucial to recognize that FRCS carries increased risk due to its lower position in the corporation's capital hierarchy compared to senior debt. In case of default or liquidation, senior debtholders take precedence over FRCS investors in reclaiming their investments. FRCS holders, however, hold a stronger claim on the issuer's assets compared to preferred and common stockholders.

Market dynamics exert an influence on the daily trading prices of these hybrid securities. Notably, FRCS prices often decrease on ex-dividend days when buyers of FRCS are ineligible to receive dividends. Despite trading in open markets, FRCS is generally deemed less liquid, particularly during market interest rate increases.

Conclusion

Fixed-Rate Capital Securities (FRCS) represent a unique financial hybrid that melds elements of corporate bonds and preferred shares, offering investors a dependable income stream despite their inherent risk. While generally enjoying investment-grade status, FRCSs are susceptible to tax law changes that could trigger extraordinary redemptions. They hold a distinct place in a corporation's capital hierarchy, offering potential advantages over preferred and common stockholders in case of financial distress. Market fluctuations can impact their daily trading prices, underscoring their relative illiquidity. Understanding these characteristics is essential for those considering FRCS investments.