Terna appears suitable to issue hybrid bonds. Key reasons: - **Large, stable infrastructure/utility profile:** Terna is Italy’s national electricity transmission grid operator, a regulated infrastructure business. Such companies are often strong candidates for hybrid capital because they have predictable operating cash flows and long-lived assets. - **Strong profitability:** 2022 operating profit was **€1.33bn**, up from **€1.20bn** in 2021. Net profit was **€857.7m**, also higher year over year. This supports the ability to service hybrid coupons. - **Robust operating cash generation:** Operating cash flow rose sharply to **€2.32bn** in 2022 from **€832m** in 2021, comfortably covering dividends and supporting investment needs. - **Significant asset base:** Total assets were **€22.8bn**, with property, plant and equipment of **€16.2bn**, consistent with a capital-intensive regulated utility that can support long-term financing structures. - **Existing market precedent:** The company already issued **€989m of perpetual hybrid bonds/equity instruments** in 2022, indicating demonstrated access to this financing format and market acceptance. - **Leverage is material but manageable for the sector:** Borrowings are substantial, with long-term borrowings of **€8.42bn** and current borrowings/long-term portions totaling about **€2.35bn**. However, this is typical for regulated grid operators, and equity increased materially to **€6.17bn** in 2022. - **Investment-heavy business model:** Investing cash flow was negative **€1.86bn**, mainly due to grid capex. Hybrid bonds are particularly relevant for companies needing long-duration capital while preserving credit metrics. Overall, the combination of regulated utility cash flows, scale, profitability, strong operating cash flow, and demonstrated hybrid issuance supports a high suitability assessment. Strongly Suitable