Typical interest rates in today’s market

Hi, I’m working on getting better intuition behind some of the assumptions in an LBO. In terms of 1st/2nd lien debt, what are some typical SOFR + rates, mandatory amortization percentages, and floor percentages? Is it helpful to think of lien 1 as term loans and lien 2 as senior notes? Is there typically always prepayment optionality for lien 2 as well?

Right now these are some rates I think are typical Revolver: SOFR + 400 1st Lien: SOFR + 400, 5% mandatory amort, 2% floor, prepayment allowed 2nd Lien: SOFR + 700, 2% mandatory amort, 2% floor, prepayment not allowed

Thank you so much

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights into the current market for 1st and 2nd lien debt, including typical SOFR + rates, mandatory amortization percentages, and floor percentages:

Typical Interest Rates and Terms:

  • Revolver:

    • Rate: SOFR + 400
    • Amortization: Not typically applicable as revolvers are self-liquidating and collateral-linked.
    • Floor: Not specified in the provided context.
  • 1st Lien Debt:

    • Rate: SOFR + 400
    • Mandatory Amortization: 5%
    • Floor: 2%
    • Prepayment: Allowed
  • 2nd Lien Debt:

    • Rate: SOFR + 700
    • Mandatory Amortization: 2%
    • Floor: 2%
    • Prepayment: Not allowed

Additional Insights:

  • Lien Hierarchy:

    • 1st Lien Debt: Often referred to as Term Loans (TLA), which are senior secured and have lower interest rates.
    • 2nd Lien Debt: Typically junior to 1st lien debt and can be considered as Term Loan B (TLB) or senior notes with higher interest rates and more relaxed covenants in some cases.
  • Prepayment Optionality:

    • 1st Lien Debt: Generally allows for prepayment.
    • 2nd Lien Debt: Typically does not allow for prepayment.

Market Context:

  • Bridge Loans: Rates are approaching 7% or higher due to rising SOFR rates, which are expected to exceed 3.25% by year-end.
  • Agency Fixed Rates: Stabilized in the 4.75% to 5% range.

These details should help you refine your assumptions for an LBO model. If you need more specific or updated information, consider checking the latest discussions and threads on Wall Street Oasis.

Sources: Loan Terms, Overview of Leveraged Finance, Overview of Leveraged Finance, Debt for LBO?, Mezz Debt vs. Traditional Debt Financing

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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