Macau Property Opportunities Fund Limited has announced results for the period ended 31 December 2016. MPO’s portfolio value appreciated 2.9% over the six-month period to US$405.0 million. Adjusted NAV per share improved 2.4% in H2 2016 to US$3.03 (245 pence*) per share. IFRS NAV increased 4.2% to US$111.1 million or US$1.45 (118 pence*) per share during the period. MPO’s share price rose 15% to 120.75 pence as at the period end.
MPO’s total assets and liabilities were US$305.7 million and US$194.6 million, respectively, as at 31 December 2016. Total borrowings of the Company stood at US$178.4 million. Loan-to-value ratio equated to 42%. A loan facility of US$15.2 million (HK$118 million) for Senado Square was executed in December. The two-year hybrid facility – a term and revolving structure – comprising two tranches will mature in December 2018. Interest is charged at 2.7% per annum over a 1-, 2- or 3-month HIBOR. The Company’s cash balance increased to US$20.5 million, US$2.2 million of which was pledged as collateral for debt facilities.
At The Waterside (luxury residential) occupancy rebounded to 49% on the back of 19 new leases secured during the reporting period. As at the period end, the average monthly rent was US$2.32 (HK$17.96) per square foot. At The Fountainside (low-density residential), 15 residential units – 11 apartments and 4 villas – remained available for sale at an average asking price of HK$9,160 (US$1,174) per square foot. Talking about Estrada da Penha (luxury residential) they say that a gradual recovery in sentiment has resulted in an increasing number of enquiries from potential buyers and we continue to seek an opportune time and price to divest the asset. Senado Square’s (prime retail) architectural concept plan was approved in December, which is likely to elevate the attractiveness of the site to potential buyers. The project is now in the next stage of the planning application.
Chris Russell, Chairman of Macau Property Opportunities Fund Limited, said, “We believe a recovery in the property market is likely over the next two years – gradually moving from the low to the high-end segment, in which our residential assets are concentrated.
While we are mindful of the uncertainties and risks posed by recent changes in the US administration and interest rate hike policies, as well as any further measures enacted by China’s central government to curb capital outflows, the improving market sentiment should create a favourable environment for MPO to divest its assets, and ultimately, return value to shareholders,” concluded Chris Russell
MPO : Macau Property Opportunities reports improving market sentiment