NATIONAL TELECOMS GROUP LIMITED 2003-01-03 ASX-SIGNAL-G
HOMEX - Sydney
+++++++++++++++++++++++++ NTG is pleased to announce its intention to offer all shareholders, subject to ordinary commercial underwriting conditions, a non-renounceable pro-rata rights issue on the basis of 1 new share for every 1 share held and at a subscription price of 11 cents per share.
The issue will be supported by two of NTG's directors and major shareholders, Managing Director Tony Hakim and Non-Executive Director Morry Fraid, who have agreed in principle to offer a substantial underwriting commitment to the issue directly or through associated companies. The issue, priced at 11cents per share and if fully taken up, will raise approximately $13.4 million before costs.
The persons underwriting the rights issue have also agreed to provide loans up to a maximum of $5 million each in the period prior to the rights issue being completed.
Further to the company's announcement on 12 December 2002, particularly the continued impact of the negative publicity on sales, the Board has decided to strengthen NTG's balance sheet by undertaking this rights issue. The funds will be employed to increase NTG's working capital and repay any shareholder loans used in the period prior to the rights issue being completed. NTG is also appointing NM Rothschild & Sons (Australia) Limited to undertake a review of NTG's strategic options and to assist on the rights issue.
Ron Nissen, Executive Chairman, stated that: "the Board's decision to undertake this major recapitalisation will strengthen NTG's position in the market place and the Board is grateful for the support of NTG's two largest shareholders for their financial commitment to the Company to achieve this new position. All shareholders will have the opportunity to fully participate in the rights issue."
A prospectus is being prepared and will be made available to shareholders when completed and after lodgement with the ASIC.
N J V Geddes SECRETARY
NTG Price at posting:
0.0¢ Sentiment: Hold Disclosure: Held