The Existence of Corporate Bond Clawbacks (IPOCs): Theory and Evidence
61 Pages Posted: 20 Jul 2011 Last revised: 24 Apr 2020
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The Existence of Corporate Bond Clawbacks (IPOCs): Theory and Evidence
Date Written: July 19, 2011
Abstract
Clawback provisions allow the issuer to partially redeem a bond issue often within three years of issuance using proceeds only from new equity issues. Empirical evidence indicates the clawback provision is rarely exercised. This poses an interesting dilemma as clawback provisions are an expensive source of funding, often commanding yields that are significantly higher than traditional corporate bonds. We develop a simple model that provides a rationale for the scarcity of call redemptions and the higher yields of clawback bonds. The model predicts a relation between issuance of clawback bonds, cash flow volatility and the probability of renegotiation of clawback debt contracts.
Keywords: Clawback, Financial Distress, Debt Overhang, Dilution, Debt Design
JEL Classification: G32, G34
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation