ALI eyes Islamic bond sale to fund venture in Malaysia

Property giant Ayala Land Inc. is looking at debuting at the Islamic financing market by issuing sukuk securities, to boost its fledgling venture into Malaysia’s property industry. ALI in April acquired 9.16 percent of Malaysian company GW Plastics Holdings Bhd. through a private placement amounting to $43 million or P1.9 billion. The Malaysian firm was later renamed MCT Bhd. ALI subsequently entered into a call option agreement with the two founders of the Malaysian firm, allowing it to increase its shares in MCT up to a maximum of 32.95 percent. To fund the entire investment, which needs to be accomplished in a month’s time, Ysmael said ALI is looking at the cheapest options available.