BDO Capital Remains as PH’s Top Investment House for the 7th Year

BDO Capital & Investment Corporation (BDO Capital) has once again secured its place at the top of the Philippine investment banking industry. For the 7th consecutive year, BDO Capital has been awarded the highest honor of Investment House of the Year at the 9th Investment House Association of the Philippines (IHAP) Awards 2024. This year’s event was especially significant as it coincided with IHAP’s 50th anniversary, further amplifying BDO Capital's impressive accomplishment.

As a top player in the Philippine capital markets, BDO Capital has consistently demonstrated its excellence across various product lines in investment banking, from equity deals to fixed income financing. These accolades reflect the company’s ongoing contribution to the country's economic growth and infrastructure development.

BDO Capital's Consistent Success

For seven years in a row, BDO Capital has led the charge in the competitive world of investment banking in the Philippines. This sustained success speaks volumes about its unmatched ability to deliver results. But what sets BDO Capital apart from other investment houses? Is it their client-focused approach, their strong capital base, or their extensive network? Likely, it's all of the above and more.

What is the IHAP Awards?

The Investment House Association of the Philippines (IHAP) is a non-stock, non-profit organization that serves as the umbrella for registered investment houses in the country. The IHAP Awards are designed to recognize outstanding achievements in the investment banking industry. The judging process is rigorous, with a panel consisting of senior representatives from esteemed organizations like the Securities and Exchange Commission, Philippine Stock Exchange, and other capital market stakeholders.

BDO Capital’s Key Achievements in 2024

BDO Capital didn’t just win the Investment House of the Year title. The company also took home a series of other awards, including:

• Best Equity House (6th time)
• Best Fixed Income House (9th consecutive year)
• Best Project Finance House (7th year)

These awards are a testament to BDO Capital's versatility and expertise in various sectors, including energy, transportation, and infrastructure. Such projects are key contributors to the country's economic growth.

Deal of the Year: The MRT-7 Project

BDO Capital's role as Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner for the Mass Rail Transit 7 Inc.’s (MRT-7) PHP 100 billion Syndicated Loan Term Facility has been labeled as the Deal of the Year. This project stands out because it represents the largest-ever peso-denominated syndicated loan in the Philippines.

Imagine the MRT-7 as the backbone of Manila's mass transport system. It’s expected to relieve traffic, cut down commuting times, and boost economic activity. BDO Capital’s involvement in this project directly supports the Build Better, More infrastructure program of the current administration.

Best Equity Deal: Alternergy Holdings IPO

BDO Capital also won recognition for its role in the PHP 1.6 billion Initial Public Offering (IPO) of Alternergy Holdings Corporation. As a Joint Issue Manager and Joint Lead Underwriter, BDO Capital was instrumental in raising funds to support clean energy projects, including solar, hydro, and wind.

Why does this matter? Clean energy projects are not just good for the environment—they also represent the future of energy in the Philippines, helping to reduce dependency on non-renewable sources.

Large Cap Equity Deal: ACEN Corporation's PHP 25 Billion Issuance

In the large-cap category, BDO Capital secured the Best Equity Deal award for its role in ACEN Corporation's PHP 25 billion perpetual preferred shares issuance. As one of the Joint Issue Managers and Bookrunners, BDO Capital played a crucial part in facilitating this large-scale investment, which is aimed at enhancing the energy sector in the Philippines.

Best Fixed Income Deal: Bureau of Treasury’s Dollar Bonds

BDO Capital also won the Best Fixed Income Deal (large cap category) for its work with the Bureau of the Treasury. The second offering of USD 1.26 billion Retail Onshore Dollar Bonds was designed to raise funds for the government’s priority projects, many of which are geared towards infrastructure development.

BDO Capital’s Approach to Investment Banking

BDO Capital's success comes down to its ability to serve as a one-stop-shop for investment banking needs. As Eduardo V. Francisco, President of BDO Capital, puts it, the company offers a seamless structure that saves clients time and money. Think of BDO Capital as a bridge, helping clients move smoothly from one side of the business world to the other—whether it’s by managing equity deals or arranging large financing packages.

The Importance of Investment Banking in Economic Growth

Investment banking plays a vital role in driving the economy forward. By underwriting major infrastructure projects like MRT-7 or funding renewable energy ventures, BDO Capital helps ensure that critical sectors such as transportation and energy continue to grow. Without this kind of financial backing, many large-scale projects wouldn’t get off the ground.

BDO Capital's International Recognition

It’s not just the IHAP that recognizes BDO Capital’s excellence. The company has been named the Best Investment Bank in the Philippines by leading international publications such as Asiamoney and Global Finance. These accolades further cement its position as the leading investment house in the country.

Future Prospects for BDO Capital

Given its robust track record, it's no surprise that BDO Capital has set its sights on bigger and more ambitious projects in the future. With the government’s ongoing focus on infrastructure and renewable energy, the company is well-positioned to continue dominating the investment banking landscape.

Why BDO Capital Stands Out

Ultimately, BDO Capital’s success boils down to a few key factors:

• A customer-centric approach that ensures clients’ needs are always prioritized.
• Strong distribution capability, enabling them to handle large-scale deals efficiently.
• A commitment to innovation and market impact, consistently staying ahead of the competition.

BDO Capital’s position as the top investment house in the Philippines for seven consecutive years is no accident. With numerous awards and a proven track record in sectors critical to the country's growth, the company has solidified its place as the go-to investment house for both local and international clients. Whether it's financing infrastructure projects or managing equity deals, BDO Capital remains an essential player in the Philippine economy.