Jamaican Teas raises over $100m

Jamaican Teas went to the bond market in October to raise $200 million in an 8.5 percent bond issue. The offer, which closed on November 7, received over 80 applicants for just over J$100 million. The company plans to be employ the proceeds for capital projects. The note is a four year instrument fixed at 8.5 percent per annum for the first two years and variable thereafter.

“I want to congratulate the Stocks & Securities team on another successful offer. This one is significant because we were able to raise the funds needed by the client at a rate of 0.10% below the last GOJ Treasury auction. Jamaican Teas Limited is a strong company and we are happy for the opportunity to work with the organization and bring value to all who participated,” said Lamar Harris, Manager Investment Banking & Attorney-at-law.

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“I am happy that we were successful in raising over $100 Million in our corporate bond offer. This was achieved in an environment of extreme economic uncertainty when most investors tend to prefer investing for the short term. I feel that an important reason for our success was the decision to list the security on the Junior Stock Exchange so the investors had the confidence of being able to trade the securities if they needed to. I congratulate SSL for their hard work in making this a success.” John Mahfood, CEO.

Jamaican Teas Ltd distributes the renowned Tetley black tea as well as a Premium Blend of black tea, together with Earl Grey black tea, Green Tea, and Peppermint and Chamomile herbal teas. They are also proprietors of the Caribbean Dreams line of products which consists of herbal teas sourced by the company from Jamaica and other sources, as well as drinking cocoa, powdered natural coconut milk and a range of spring water.

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