Octodec Investments delivers on target; Sets long term platform for sustainable growth

Posted On Monday, 31 October 2016 13:44 Published by
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JSE listed REIT Octodec today announced full year results in line with expectations in a challenging economic, political and operating environment.

Jeffrey_Wapnick_MD

The year saw major investments in improving existing properties as well as delivering on four new developments to attract and grow the tenant base.

The R12.3bn portfolio comprising 324 properties realised like-for-like growth of 5.3% in rental income. The 6.5% distribution growth was achieved through careful management, tight cost controls and optimisation of the portfolio. Net Asset Value per share increased 5.2% to R29.13 supported by a conservative increase in the valuation of properties and swaps to protect against interest rate fluctuations.

Jeffrey Wapnick, Managing Director of Octodec, commented: “The portfolio performed in line with our expectations as we continue to deliver on our strategy to unlock value across our portfolio through major new developments, redevelopments, upgrades and the recycling of non-core assets.

“South Africa is facing economic challenges but we are seeing significant private and public investment projects accelerating in the Tshwane and Johannesburg CBDs. This is highlighted by the increasing demand from national retailers recognising our CBD nodes as prime locations for stores roll-out.”

In line with its strategy to dispose of non-core assets, six properties worth R55.5m were sold and transferred during the period under review at a 15.3% premium to book value. A further 10 properties have been sold post year end with proceeds expected to amount to R179m, at well above book value. Two properties, including the Van Riebeeck Medical Building, were also acquired for R29m in the Tshwane CBD and form part of Octodec’s site assembly in key nodes.

Octodec had four major projects worth approximately R672m under construction during the year with R368m spent by 31 August 2016.

1 on Mutual, a R160 million mixed-use development situated adjacent to Church Square in the Tshwane CBD will consist of 142 residential units, ground floor retail space and parking. This project is now timed for completion in February 2017.

Sharon’s Place (previously Centre Forum) a R375m new residential development in the Tshwane CBD consisting of 400 units, parking and ground floor retail anchored by Shoprite and Clicks, is situated adjacent to the new Tshwane House municipal development and set for completion in April 2017.

The Manhattan, a 180-unit residential development in Sunninghill, Johannesburg is progressing well. The total development cost of this 50%-held joint operation amounts to R80,9m and completion is expected in late 2016

“We are excited about the launch of these new developments with 1 on Mutual offering tenants a more upmarket product with excellent retail facilities anchored by Pick n Pay and Mugg & Bean.

“Two additional residential developments are in planning phase at a cost of R240m but these will only be undertaken if they meet our hurdle rate of return of 9%. Strategic partnerships that will support our growth and entry into new markets are also being considered,” commented Wapnick.

Octodec’s continued focus on cost control saw the ratio of net property expenses to rental income decrease to 29,6% (31 August 2015: 30,5%) whilst bad debt write offs and provisions remained low at just 0.8% of total tenant income.

The group’s loan-to-value ratio of 38% is within the company’s target range. Octodec has reduced its exposure to interest rate risk by entering into interest rate swap contracts in respect of 82.9% of all borrowings. The all-in average weighted interest rate for all borrowings was maintained at 9% per annum. The Group has significant committed bank facilities to complete all developments with headroom to raise more funds.

Anthony Stein, Financial Director of Octodec, said: “We have retained a strong financial position with sufficient facilities in place to fund our development pipeline. In addition, we have protected our exposure to interest rate risk by hedging 83% of our borrowings.”

The Board of Directors of Octodec has declared a final cash dividend of 103.1 cents per share for the twelve months ended 31 August 2016. Shareholders will be entitled, in respect of all or part of their shareholdings, to elect to reinvest the cash dividend in return for Octodec shares.

“There is a positive momentum in the CBDs with demand for quality residential and retail space expected to remain solid even in challenging economic conditions.

“Against this backdrop, we will continue to unlock value beyond financial returns through continued investments that support other stakeholders, both private and public, including dedicated precincts.

“The building blocks have been established for long-term sustainable growth with our short-term distributions anticipated to beat inflation until the greenfield projects come on stream,” concluded Wapnick.

Last modified on Monday, 31 October 2016 13:55

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