Shuaa Capital and Dubai Banking Group agree new bond conversion terms

Building on the invitation extended by the Securities and Commodities Authority, Shuaa Capital psc and Dubai Banking Group have reached agreement regarding the convertible bonds issued by Shuaa to Dubai Banking Group, whereby Dubai Banking Group will convert the Dhs1,500m convertible bonds into 515 million shares, representing a 48.4% stake of Shuaa Capital's share capital post-conversion.

Conversion will be effected in accordance with UAE legal procedures and subject to final approval by the concerned authorities.

As a result, Shuaa's issued and paid up capital will be increased by Dhs515m to Dhs1,065m, while the balance of Dhs985m will be credited to the premium account within equity. Total shareholder equity will remain unchanged at Dhs2bn.

The new agreement represents a conversion price of Dhs2.91 per share equal to a premium of 127% to the closing share price of Shuaa of Dhs1.28 yesterday. The foregoing terms are within the authority that the company's Board received from Shuaa's shareholders in their extraordinary general meeting held in Dubai on 15 April 2009.

Mr. Majid Al Ghurair, Chairman of Shuaa Capital commented:

"We believe that this agreement was the best course of action under the circumstances and we worked swiftly to remove the uncertainty that followed the marked escalation over the past week. This was especially important in view of the nature of our business. Despite our differences, we both recognized the need to resolve them amicably for the sake of all our shareholders and our standing as a leading UAE company. We would like to take this opportunity to start a new page and welcome Dubai Banking Group as Shuaa's largest shareholder."

He added: "Both parties also wish to thank the Emirates Securities and Commodities Authority and its senior management for facilitating the dialogue that lead to the agreement today".

Mr. Fadel Al Ali, Chairman of Dubai Banking Group said: "We see our investment in Shuaa as a long term and strategic one. Shuaa has a unique market position and an enviable track record coupled with credible management and strong brand recognition. We believe that today's resolution of our differences is a significant milestone toward cementing its position as one of the leaders in financial services in the UAE."