JCR reaffirms Ayala Corp.’s A- issuer rating

AYALA CORP. kept its A- foreign currency long-term issuer rating with a stable outlook from Japan Credit Rating Agency, Ltd. (JCR), a move the group said could support access to funding sources, including the Japanese debt market.

“JCR’s continued confidence in Ayala, reflected in its A- rating, underscores the strength of our portfolio and validates our sharpened focus on disciplined capital allocation, prudent risk management and balance sheet resilience,” Ayala Chief Finance Officer and Chief Risk Officer Juan Carlos L. Syquia said in a statement on Thursday.

JCR reaffirmed the rating and outlook, citing Ayala’s diversified business portfolio, earnings base and financial management.

The agency said the conglomerate’s credit profile continues to benefit from contributions from its major businesses in banking, real estate, telecommunications, and renewable energy.

The rating company also pointed to Ayala’s cash flow generation capability, growth prospects and financial position in supporting the rating.

Ayala said the reaffirmation could broaden its financing options, particularly in Japan, as companies navigate uncertainty in global financial markets.

“The reaffirmed A- rating supports Ayala’s diversified financing opportunities to tap Samurai hedged loans at attractive terms during current market uncertainties,” Ayala Executive Director and Treasurer Estelito C. Biacora said.

The group said it remains focused on maintaining liquidity, financial flexibility and balance sheet discipline while pursuing growth opportunities across its portfolio.

Ayala got its inaugural A- foreign currency long-term issuer rating from JCR in March 2025. At the time, the company said the rating would strengthen its access to credit markets and yen-denominated financing.

The group’s core businesses include banking, real estate, telecommunications and renewable energy. It also has investments in healthcare, mobility, logistics, fintech, industrial technologies and education.

Ayala shares rose P1 or 0.26% to close at P386 each. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno