Daily Brief Indonesia: Indika Energy and more

We view Indika Energy as “Medium Risk” on the LARA scale, thanks to its robust balance sheet following the December 2017 acquisition of a controlling stake in PT Kideco Jaya Agung (to 91%) at a low price. We note favourably Kideco’s position as the third-largest coal producer in Indonesia, as well as the low-cost structure (first quartile; profitable even during the coal downturn in the past few years). It is one of the few HY coal credits that survived the downturn. Indika’s balance sheet appeared to be fairly levered in the past, as debt-free Kideco had not been consolidated. However, the balance sheet was transformed by the stake acquisition. The business profile also changed from that of an energy (primarily coal) services company to that of an integrated coal producer. The balance sheet is now robust, with a net cash position. In the medium term, Indika is diversifying away from coal by acquiring and investing in non-coal businesses.

Our fundamental Credit Bias on Indika is “Positive”. This is based on: [1] the strong rally in coal prices, which should further boost the company’s financial risk profile in FY 2022; and [2] Indika’s commitment to improving its business diversification and ESG standards.

Controversies are “Immaterial” and the ESG Impact on Credit is “Neutral”.

We revise our recommendation to “Hold” on the INDYIJ notes from “Buy” on the INDYIJ 8.25 25.