AusNet (Baa1/BBB+) is an Australian energy delivery services business, that owns and operates more than AUD$11 billion of electricity and gas network assets. Centred in Victoria, its network covers 80,000 square kilometres, with 93% being in regional and rural areas. AusNet is a stable utility credit with electricity and gas networks which are essential in nature and monopoly-like. Its regulated revenues account for over 90%+ of total revenues, ensuring predictability and stability of its earnings.
In May this year, AusNet raised AUD700m from a 10-year senior unsecured deal with a fixed coupon of 6.134%. This bond is currently trading at a discount to par and yielding approx. 6.2%. This looks very attractive for a monopoly infrastructure issuer for a senior bond. Particularly for portfolios overweight property and financials, this introduces some true corporate exposure.