To evaluate Terna S.p.A.'s suitability for issuing hybrid bonds, we look at its financial profile, industry characteristics, and direct evidence of such instruments from its 2022 annual report. 1. **Size and Stability**: Terna is a major regulated utility operating Italy's national electricity transmission grid. It generated €2.89 billion in revenues in 2022 (up from €2.53 billion in 2021) and €1.33 billion in operating profit. Regulated utilities are prime candidates for hybrid bonds due to their highly predictable and stable cash flows. 2. **Interest Coverage**: The company demonstrates exceptionally strong debt-servicing capacity. With an operating profit (EBIT) of €1.33 billion and finance costs of €121.8 million, its interest coverage ratio is approximately 10.9x, indicating strong profitability well capable of covering subordinated interest payments. 3. **Cash Flow Generation**: Operating cash flow was remarkably robust at €2.32 billion in 2022, easily funding substantial capital expenditures (€1.49 billion) and servicing obligations. 4. **Direct Evidence of Hybrid Issuance**: The definitive indicator of the company's suitability is the explicit presence of hybrid bonds on its balance sheet for the 2022 fiscal year. The report records an influx of €989 million under "Equity Instruments Perpetual Hybrid Bonds" and corresponding "Coupon Payable To Holders Of Hybrid Bonds" of €21.1 million. This confirms that Terna successfully tapped the hybrid bond market during the reporting period. Because Terna operates in a highly stable regulated sector, demonstrates excellent interest coverage and liquidity, and has proven market access by having already issued nearly €1 billion in perpetual hybrid bonds, it is an ideal candidate for such instruments. Strongly Suitable