AGM Issues $100M Non‑Cumulative 6.50% Preferred; $97.1M Net Proceeds
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac) priced an offering of $100 million of 6.500% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series H, consisting of 4,000,000 shares with a $25.00 liquidation preference per share. Net proceeds to Farmer Mac before expenses are expected to be approximately $97.1 million, with settlement expected on August 25, 2025. The Preferred Stock is non-convertible and was offered under an exemption from registration pursuant to Section 3(a)(2) of the Securities Act due to Farmer Mac's status as a Congressionally chartered corporation acting as an instrumentality of the United States. Farmer Mac intends to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes. A press release announcing the pricing was issued and is filed as Exhibit 99.
Positive
- Raised $100 million in preferred capital to provide liquidity
- Net proceeds of approximately $97.1 million available for general corporate purposes
- Non-convertible preferred stock preserves common equity and avoids dilution
Negative
- 6.500% dividend obligation introduces a recurring claim on earnings when dividends are declared
- Non-cumulative preference may still constrain future dividend policy and cash flow allocation
Insights
TL;DR: Farmer Mac raised $100M via 6.5% non‑cumulative preferred stock, producing ~$97.1M net for corporate use; issuance is non‑dilutive to common equity.
The issuance of Series H preferred shares provides Farmer Mac with near‑term liquidity of approximately $97.1 million before expenses. Because the shares are non‑convertible, this capital infusion does not increase common equity or dilute common shareholders' ownership stakes. However, the company now has a fixed preferred dividend obligation at a 6.500% rate (non‑cumulative), which represents an ongoing cash claim on earnings when dividends are declared. The offering relied on a registration exemption under Section 3(a)(2), reflecting Farmer Mac's special charter status rather than a public registration process. The financing appears straightforward and intended to support general corporate needs rather than fund a specific acquisition or program.
TL;DR: $97.1M net from preferred issuance strengthens liquidity while preserving common equity; creates preferred dividend obligations.
This preferred issuance is a capital‑raising tool that preserves the common equity base because shares are not convertible or exchangeable. The 6.500% dividend rate establishes a priority return for preferred holders when dividends are paid, which management must consider in cash planning. Settlement is expected August 25, 2025, and proceeds are earmarked for general corporate purposes. The use of the Section 3(a)(2) exemption is consistent with Farmer Mac's chartered status and permitted issuance mechanics.