18 May 2022
BR Properties agrees to sell assets to Brookfield for CAD1.5 million
On May 18, 2022, BR Properties sold 12 office buildings and two land parcels to Brookfield for CAD1.5 billion (R$5.5 billion), aiming to address their CAD591 million (R$2.1 billion) debt, although they had not decided on specific debt repayment plans. CEO Martin Jaco viewed the deal as a strategic step to lessen the burden of high-interest rates on their debt, which could lead to a positive cash flow and reduced financial costs. A portion of the proceeds was considered for distribution as dividends, investment in logistics projects, and increasing cash reserves. The company shifted its focus to the industrial and logistics sectors, with no immediate plans for portfolio expansion due to market challenges. The sold assets, located in prime areas of São Paulo, Alphaville, Brasília, and Rio de Janeiro, represented a significant leasable area. Following the transaction, BR Properties' strategy involved a greater emphasis on industrial properties and reducing office property holdings in Rio de Janeiro, along with a smaller project in Minas Gerais. The financial arrangement required a 70% payment at the transfer of each property, with the remaining balance, adjusted accordingly, due after one year. The completion of the deal was contingent on the approval of an extraordinary general meeting and clearance by CADE, which was anticipated to take between 45 to 70 days.