US Market News
1月前
Jefferies Financial Group Inc. Announces Pricing of $1,100,000,000 5.125% Senior Notes Due 2031April 23, 2026 5:44 PM
Business Wire
Jefferies Financial Group Inc. (NYSE: JEF) (“JFG”, “we” or “our”) today announced the pricing of its public offering of $1.1 billion aggregate principal amount of 5.125% Senior Notes due 2031 (the “Notes”) with an effective yield of 5.304%, maturing April 28, 2031. The offering is expected to settle on April 28, 2026, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
JFG intends to use the net proceeds of the offering for general corporate purposes. Jefferies LLC served as sole global co-ordinator and joint book-runner for the offering of the Notes, SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. served as joint book-runner, BNY Mellon Capital Markets, LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc. and Natixis Securities Americas LLC served as senior co-managers, and Academy Securities, Inc., AmeriVet Securities, Inc., BBVA Securities Inc., CaixaBank, S.A., Citizens JMP Securities, LLC, Fifth Third Securities, Inc., First Citizens Capital Securities, LLC, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., Huntington Securities, Inc., Intesa Sanpaolo IMI Securities Corp., M&T Securities, Inc., NatWest Markets Securities Inc., Santander US Capital Markets LLC, Standard Chartered Bank, SG Americas Securities, LLC, UniCredit Capital Markets LLC and U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. served as co-managers.
The offering of the Notes is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement, base prospectus and related prospectus supplement. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the base prospectus, when available, may be obtained by contacting Jefferies LLC at toll-free (877) 877-0696, or by email at DCMProspectuses@jefferies.com; or SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. at toll-free (888) 868-6856, or by email at prospectus@smbcnikko-si.com. Investors may also obtain these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the Securities and Exchange Commission's (“SEC”) website at www.sec.gov.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.
About Jefferies Financial Group Inc.
Jefferies (NYSE: JEF) is one of the world’s leading full-service investment banking and capital markets firms. We primarily serve public companies, private companies, and their sponsors and owners, institutional investors, and government entities. Our services are enhanced by our relentless client focus, our differentiated insights and a flat and nimble operating structure.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements include statements about our future and statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are typically identified by such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “may,” “intend,” “outlook,” “will,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “should,” and other similar words and expressions, and are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which will change over time. Forward-looking statements may contain beliefs, goals, intentions and expectations regarding revenues, earnings, operations, arrangements and other results, and may include statements of future performance, plans, and objectives. Forward-looking statements also include statements pertaining to our strategies for future development of our businesses and products. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made; we do not assume any duty, and do not undertake, to update any forward-looking statements. Furthermore, because forward-looking statements represent only our belief regarding future events, many of which by their nature are inherently uncertain, the actual results or outcomes may differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results or outcomes indicated in these forward-looking statements. Information regarding important factors, including risk factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ, perhaps materially, from those in our forward-looking statements, is contained in reports we file with the SEC, including our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended February 28, 2026. You should read and interpret any forward-looking statement together with reports we file or furnish with the SEC. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. Therefore, it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy will be profitable or equal the corresponding indicated performance level(s).
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260423257034/en/
For inquiries, please contact:
Jonathan Freedman
Head of Marketing and Communications
Jefferies Financial Group Inc.
mediacontact@jefferies.com
Original: Jefferies Financial Group Inc. Announces Pricing of $1,100,000,000 5.125% Senior Notes Due 2031
US Market News
2月前
Jefferies Announces First Quarter 2026 Financial ResultsMarch 25, 2026 4:15 PM
Business Wire
Jefferies Financial Group Inc. (NYSE: JEF)
Q1 Financial Highlights
$ in thousands, except per share amounts
Quarter End
1Q26
1Q25
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders
$
155,700
$
127,793
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations
$
0.70
$
0.57
Return on adjusted tangible shareholders' equity1
10.9
%
8.0
%
Total net revenues
$
2,017,130
$
1,593,019
Investment banking net revenues
$
1,017,293
$
700,692
Capital markets net revenues
$
778,756
$
698,284
Asset management net revenues
$
220,262
$
191,715
Pre-tax earnings from continuing operations
$
212,216
$
151,065
Book value per common share
$
51.91
$
49.48
Adjusted tangible book value per fully diluted share3
$
34.24
$
32.57
Quarterly Cash Dividend and Stock Buyback Activity
The Jefferies Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend equal to $0.40 per Jefferies common share, payable on May 29, 2026 to record holders of Jefferies common shares on May 18, 2026.
Repurchased 3.0 million shares of common stock for $174 million, or an average price of $58.18 per share. Our Board of Directors has increased our share buyback authorization back to a total of $250 million.
Management Comments
"Our first quarter net revenues were $2.02 billion, net earnings attributable to common shareholders were $156 million, diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations were $0.70 and return on adjusted tangible shareholders' equity was 10.9%. Net earnings attributable to common shareholders for the current quarter reflects a $36 million, non-cash, after-tax write-down of goodwill associated with the announced sale of Tessellis (the final component of our original investment in Linkem which was divested in 2024). In addition, we have $17 million of losses related to Market Financial Solutions and First Brands after adjusting for compensation and taxes. Our direct exposure to First Brands is now zero.
"We delivered first quarter record net revenues from overall Investment Banking Advisory and Equity and Debt Underwriting revenues, as well as from Equities, with net revenues increasing 40% and 37%, respectively, versus the first quarter of 2025. These results underscore both the strength of our franchise and the durability of our strategy.
"We made progress in the further wind-down of our legacy merchant banking portfolio, with the announced sale of Tessellis. We expect this transaction to close in the first quarter of 2027. Going forward, our financial results will increasingly reflect our core business activities.
"Over the last six months, our businesses have been operating exceptionally well, in fact setting a best-ever record in first quarter net revenues in our largest two businesses, as mentioned above. Management is disappointed and takes full responsibility for the losses already recognized and that may be absorbed over time in respect of First Brands, all of which are manageable.
“Investment Banking net revenues were $1.02 billion, up 45% from the prior year quarter. Growth was driven by improved Advisory and Equity Underwriting net revenues on market share gains and a stronger overall market for our services, supported by robust activity across both corporate and sponsor clients, as well as improved performance at Jefferies Finance. Our investment banking business is diversified, global and well-positioned and our team is doing an excellent job helping clients navigate the current environment.
"Capital Markets net revenues were $779 million, up 12% from the prior year quarter. Equities net revenues increased 37%, driven by market share gains, higher global trading volumes, and continued strength across our equity options, corporate derivatives and global electronic trading businesses. Fixed Income net revenues were $220 million, despite the mark-to-market loss associated with Market Financial Solutions, reflecting a slower market environment compared to the prior year quarter but improved activity relative to recent quarters.
"Asset management fees and investment return revenues were $159 million, up 91% compared to the prior year quarter. Investment return increased significantly from the prior year quarter due to improved performance across fund strategies.
"The world is challenging, but the acceleration in core business momentum that started in the second half of 2025 has continued through our first quarter of 2026 and into our second quarter. Our goal is to build upon this momentum throughout the rest of fiscal 2026 and beyond."
Richard Handler, CEO, and Brian Friedman, President
Financial Summary (Unaudited)
$ in thousands
Three Months Ended
February 28,
2026
November 30,
2025
February 28,
2025
Net revenues by source:
Advisory
$
527,128
$
634,203
$
397,780
Equity underwriting
305,969
339,799
128,520
Debt underwriting
181,858
215,757
199,362
Other investment banking
2,338
(1,784
)
(24,970
)
Total Investment Banking
1,017,293
1,187,975
700,692
Equities
558,488
485,869
409,058
Fixed income
220,268
206,045
289,226
Total Capital Markets
778,756
691,914
698,284
Total Investment Banking and Capital Markets Net revenues5
1,796,049
1,879,889
1,398,976
Asset management fees and revenues6
69,910
15,602
88,630
Investment return
88,992
65,018
(5,634
)
Allocated net interest4
(22,238
)
(21,130
)
(17,221
)
Other investments, inclusive of net interest
83,598
127,508
125,940
Total Asset Management Net revenues
220,262
186,998
191,715
Other
819
1,966
2,328
Total Net revenues by source
$
2,017,130
$
2,068,853
$
1,593,019
Non-interest expenses:
Compensation and benefits
$
1,085,890
$
1,080,779
$
841,127
Compensation ratio13
53.8
%
52.2
%
52.8
%
Non-compensation expenses
$
719,024
$
734,866
$
600,827
Non-compensation ratio13
35.6
%
35.5
%
37.7
%
Total Non-interest expenses
$
1,804,914
$
1,815,645
$
1,441,954
Net earnings from continuing operations before income taxes
$
212,216
$
253,208
$
151,065
Income tax expense
$
52,870
$
37,537
$
14,216
Income tax rate
24.9
%
14.8
%
9.4
%
Net earnings from continuing operations
$
159,346
$
215,671
$
136,849
Net losses from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
—
(4,374
)
—
Net losses attributable to noncontrolling interests
(15,858
)
(3,738
)
(6,983
)
Preferred stock dividends
19,504
24,145
16,039
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders
$
155,700
$
190,890
$
127,793
Highlights
Three Months Ended February 28, 2026 Versus February 28, 2025
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders of $156 million, or $0.70 per diluted common share from continuing operations.
Return on adjusted tangible shareholders' equity from continuing operations1 of 10.9%.
Repurchased 3.0 million shares of common stock for $174 million, at an average price of $58.18 per share, including 2.5 million shares of common stock in the open market for $144 million under our current Board of Directors authorization and 0.5 million shares of common stock for $30 million in connection with net-share settlements related to our equity compensation plans.
We had 204.4 million common shares outstanding and 255.5 million common shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis2 at February 28, 2026. Our book value per common share was $51.91 and adjusted tangible book value per fully diluted share3 was $34.24.
Effective tax rate from continuing operations of 24.9% compared to 9.4% for the prior year quarter. The fluctuation in rate was primarily driven by the resolution of certain state and local tax matters which occurred during the first quarter of 2025.
Investment Banking and Capital Markets
Investment Banking net revenues from combined Advisory, Equity underwriting and Debt underwriting totaled $1.01 billion, our best first quarter ever and 40% higher than the prior year first quarter.
Advisory net revenues of $527 million were 33% higher than the prior year quarter, driven by increased deal volumes across several sectors.
Underwriting net revenues of $488 million were 49% higher than the prior year quarter, primarily driven by market share gains and increased activity in Equity underwriting across most sectors. Debt underwriting remained solid but decreased compared to the prior year quarter due to lower deal values.
Capital Markets net revenues of $779 million were 12% higher compared to the prior year quarter.
Equities net revenues increased 37%, marking our strongest first quarter on record, due to market share gains and higher global trading volumes driving stronger results, particularly within our equity options, corporate derivatives, and global electronic trading businesses. Additionally, our prime services, Europe and U.S. equity cash businesses, also delivered strong results.
Fixed Income net revenues decreased from the prior year quarter. Strong performance in our municipal securities and emerging markets businesses was more than offset by lower results from our securitized products business. Additionally, current quarter results include a mark-to-market loss associated with Market Financial Solutions.
Asset Management
Asset Management fees and revenues and investment return of $159 million were meaningfully higher than the prior year quarter. Results for the current quarter includes a final $10 million pre-tax loss that fully writes-off our direct exposure to First Brands.
Asset management fees and revenues decreased from the prior year quarter, as a result of higher performance fees from funds and accounts managed by our strategic partners, offset by lower performance fees largely associated with Point Bonita.
Investment return increased significantly from the prior year quarter due to improved performance across several fund strategies, particularly those with a long equity bias.
Non-interest Expenses
Compensation and benefits expense as a percentage of Net revenues was 53.8%, compared to 52.8% for the prior year quarter.
Non-compensation expenses were higher primarily due to increased brokerage and clearing fees associated with increased equities trading volumes, and increased technology and communication expenses, as well as a write-down associated with Tessellis. Non-compensation expenses as a percentage of Net revenues decreased to 35.6%, compared to 37.7% for the prior year quarter.
* * * *
Amounts herein pertaining to February 28, 2026 represent a preliminary estimate as of the date of this earnings release and may be revised upon filing our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). More information on our results of operations for the three months ended February 28, 2026 will be provided upon filing our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q with the SEC, which we expect to file on or about April 7, 2026.
This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on current views and include statements about our future and statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are usually preceded by the words “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” "would," or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements may contain expectations regarding revenues, earnings, operations, and other results, and may include statements of future performance, plans, and objectives. Forward-looking statements may also include statements pertaining to our strategies for future development of our businesses and products. Forward-looking statements represent only our belief regarding future events, many of which by their nature are inherently uncertain. It is possible that the actual results may differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results indicated in these forward-looking statements. Information regarding important factors, including Risk Factors that could cause actual results to differ, perhaps materially, from those in our forward-looking statements is contained in reports we file with the SEC. You should read and interpret any forward-looking statement together with reports we file with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent circumstances.
Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. Therefore, it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy will be profitable or equal the corresponding indicated performance level(s).
Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Unaudited)
$ in thousands, except per share amounts
Three Months Ended February 28,
2026
2025
Revenues
Investment banking
$
1,018,284
$
729,510
Principal transactions
487,498
407,230
Commissions and other fees
367,604
288,300
Asset management fees and revenues
67,362
85,408
Interest
813,119
845,171
Other
117,398
117,245
Total revenues
2,871,265
2,472,864
Interest expense
854,135
879,845
Net revenues
2,017,130
1,593,019
Non-interest expenses
Compensation and benefits
1,085,890
841,127
Brokerage and clearing fees
133,132
109,436
Underwriting costs
31,383
17,846
Technology and communications
159,858
139,475
Occupancy and equipment rental
33,860
30,199
Business development
75,422
72,291
Professional services
76,944
72,466
Depreciation and amortization
56,865
30,988
Cost of sales
29,920
41,568
Other expenses
121,640
86,558
Total non-interest expenses
1,804,914
1,441,954
Earnings before income taxes
212,216
151,065
Income tax expense
52,870
14,216
Net earnings
159,346
136,849
Net losses attributable to noncontrolling interests
(15,858
)
(6,983
)
Preferred stock dividends
19,504
16,039
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders
$
155,700
$
127,793
Financial Data and Metrics (Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
February 28,
2026
November 30,
2025
February 28,
2025
Other Data:
Number of trading days
61
63
61
Number of trading loss days7
1
3
4
Average VaR (in millions)8
$
9.78
$
9.50
$
13.13
In millions, except other data
February 28,
2026
November 30,
2025
February 28,
2025
Financial position:
Total assets
$
74,380
$
76,012
$
70,219
Cash and cash equivalents
11,963
14,044
11,176
Financial instruments owned
28,079
27,723
26,087
Level 3 financial instruments owned9
849
738
781
Goodwill and intangible assets, net14
1,979
2,040
2,038
Total equity
10,662
10,642
10,268
Total shareholders' equity
10,611
10,575
10,204
Tangible shareholders' equity10
8,632
8,535
8,166
Other data and financial ratios:
Leverage ratio11
7.0
7.1
6.8
Tangible gross leverage ratio12
8.4
8.7
8.3
Number of employees at period end
7,596
7,787
7,701
Number of employees excluding Tessellis and Stratos at period end
6,221
6,194
5,994
Components of Numerators and Denominators for Earnings Per Common Share
$ in thousands, except per share amounts
Three Months Ended
February 28,
2026
2025
Numerator for earnings per common share:
Net earnings
$
159,346
$
136,849
Less: Net losses attributable to noncontrolling interests
(15,858
)
(6,983
)
Allocation of earnings to participating securities
(19,504
)
(16,039
)
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders for basic earnings per share
$
155,700
$
127,793
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders for diluted earnings per share
$
155,700
$
127,793
Denominator for earnings per common share:
Weighted average common shares outstanding
206,093
206,046
Weighted average shares of restricted stock outstanding with future service required
(2,147
)
(2,200
)
Weighted average restricted stock units outstanding with no future service required
11,761
10,690
Weighted average basic common shares
215,707
214,536
Stock options and other share-based awards
5,152
5,287
Senior executive compensation plan restricted stock unit awards
2,411
2,625
Weighted average diluted common shares
223,270
222,448
Earnings per common share:
Basic
$
0.72
$
0.60
Diluted
$
0.70
$
0.57
Non-GAAP Reconciliations
The following tables reconcile our non-GAAP financial measures to their respective U.S. GAAP financial measures. Management believes such non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors as they allow them to view our results through the eyes of management, while facilitating a comparison across historical periods. These measures should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, measures prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Return on Adjusted Tangible Equity Reconciliation
$ in thousands
Three Months Ended
February 28,
2026
2025
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders (GAAP)
$
155,700
$
127,791
Intangible amortization and impairment expense, net of tax15
42,433
7,073
Adjusted net earnings to common shareholders (non-GAAP)
198,133
134,864
Preferred stock dividends
19,504
16,039
Adjusted net earnings to total shareholders (non-GAAP)
$
217,637
$
150,903
Adjusted net earnings to total shareholders (non-GAAP)1
$
870,548
$
603,612
November 30,
2025
2024
Shareholders' equity (GAAP)
$
10,574,696
$
10,156,772
Less: Goodwill and intangible assets, net
(2,040,147
)
(2,054,310
)
Less: Deferred tax asset, net
(459,052
)
(497,590
)
Less: Weighted average impact of dividends and share repurchases
(106,532
)
(94,936
)
Adjusted tangible shareholders' equity (non-GAAP)
$
7,968,965
$
7,509,936
Return on adjusted tangible shareholders' equity (non-GAAP)1
10.9
%
8.0
%
Adjusted Tangible Book Value and Fully Diluted Shares Outstanding Reconciliation
Reconciliation of book value (shareholders' equity) to adjusted tangible book value and common shares outstanding to fully diluted shares outstanding:
$ in thousands, except per share amounts
February 28, 2026
February 28, 2025
Book value (GAAP)
$
10,610,845
$
10,204,228
Stock options(1)
114,939
114,939
Goodwill and intangible assets, net(2)
(1,978,652
)
(2,037,906
)
Adjusted tangible book value (non-GAAP)
$
8,747,132
$
8,281,261
Common shares outstanding (GAAP)
204,423
206,250
Preferred shares
27,563
27,563
Restricted stock units ("RSUs")
16,746
13,950
Stock options(1)
5,065
5,065
Other
1,671
1,459
Adjusted fully diluted shares outstanding (non-GAAP)(3)
255,468
254,287
Book value per common share outstanding
$
51.91
$
49.48
Adjusted tangible book value per fully diluted share outstanding (non-GAAP)
$
34.24
$
32.57
(1)
Stock options added to book value are equal to the total number of stock options outstanding as of February 28, 2026 and 2025 of 5.1 million multiplied by the exercise price of $22.69 on February 28, 2026 and 2025.
(2)
Includes goodwill and intangible assets related to Tessellis which were reclassified to assets held for sale during the first quarter of 2026.
(3)
Fully diluted shares outstanding include vested and unvested RSUs as well as the target number of RSUs issuable under the senior executive compensation plans until the performance period is complete. Fully diluted shares outstanding also include all stock options and the impact of convertible preferred shares if-converted to common shares.
Notes
Return on adjusted tangible shareholders' equity represents a non-GAAP financial measure and is based on full year or annualized amounts. Refer to schedule on page 8 for a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP amounts.
Shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis (a non-GAAP financial measure) is defined as common shares outstanding plus preferred shares, restricted stock units, stock options and other shares. Refer to schedule on page 9 for a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP amounts.
Adjusted tangible book value per fully diluted share (a non-GAAP financial measure) is defined as adjusted tangible book value (a non-GAAP financial measure) divided by shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis (a non-GAAP financial measure). Refer to schedule on page 9 for a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP amounts.
Allocated net interest represents an allocation to Asset Management of certain of our long-term debt interest expense, net of interest income on our Cash and cash equivalents and other sources of liquidity. Allocated net interest has been disaggregated to increase transparency and to present direct Asset Management revenues. We believe that aggregating Allocated net interest would obscure the revenue results by including an amount that is unique to our credit spreads, debt maturity profile, capital structure, liquidity risks and allocation methods.
Allocated net interest is not separately disaggregated for Investment Banking and Capital Markets. This presentation is aligned to our Investment Banking and Capital Markets internal performance measurement.
Asset management fees and revenues include management and performance fees from funds and accounts managed by us, revenue from strategic affiliated asset managers where we are entitled to portions their operating revenues and income based on our ownership interests in the affiliates.
Number of trading loss days is calculated based on trading activities in our Investment Banking and Capital Markets and Asset Management business segments, excluding certain Other investments.
VaR estimates the potential loss in value of trading positions due to adverse market movements over a one-day time horizon with a 95% confidence level. For a further discussion of the calculation of VaR, see "Value-at-Risk" in Part II, Item 7A "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2025.
Level 3 financial instruments represent those financial instruments classified as such under Accounting Standards Codification 820, accounted for at fair value and included within Financial instruments owned.
Tangible shareholders' equity (a non-GAAP financial measure) is defined as shareholders' equity less Intangible assets and goodwill. We believe that tangible shareholders' equity is meaningful for valuation purposes, as financial companies are often measured as a multiple of tangible shareholders' equity, making these ratios meaningful for investors.
Leverage ratio equals total assets divided by total equity.
Tangible gross leverage ratio (a non-GAAP financial measure) equals total assets less goodwill and intangible assets divided by tangible shareholders' equity. The tangible gross leverage ratio is used by rating agencies in assessing our leverage ratio.
Compensation ratio equals total compensation expense divided by total net revenues. Non-compensation ratio equals total non-compensation expense divided by total net revenues.
Includes goodwill and intangible assets related to Tessellis which were reclassified to assets held for sale during the first quarter of 2026.
Includes a $35.5 million after-tax write-down of goodwill associated with Tessellis.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260325419075/en/
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Jonathan Freedman 212.778.8913
Original: Jefferies Announces First Quarter 2026 Financial Results
US Market News
3月前
Jefferies Discloses Facts About Western Alliance and Western Alliance’s Loan Solely Against First Brands ReceivablesMarch 9, 2026 6:45 AM
Business Wire
Jefferies Financial Group Inc. (NYSE: JEF) (“Jefferies”) announced today that it has posted the attached letter from Jefferies’ CEO and President in response to the lawsuit and public statements by Western Alliance Bank (“Western Alliance”) concerning Western Alliance’s loans against receivables of First Brands. The letter makes clear that, among other things,
For over four years, Western Alliance made non-recourse loans in steadily increasing amounts to borrowers named LAM Trade Finance Group LLC and LAM TFG I SPV LLC, with no guarantee or credit support from Jefferies or other affiliates.
The borrowers to which Western Alliance made loans are special purpose entities owned by the Point Bonita master fund, and their assets consisted solely of First Brands receivables and related proceeds.
The Loan Agreement was clear that Western Alliance had no recourse beyond the assets of LAM TFG I SPV LLC. Western Alliance had no guarantee or other right of payment from Jefferies or the Point Bonita master fund.
Shortly before First Brands’ bankruptcy filing in September 2025, when Western Alliance was considering a forbearance arrangement, Western Alliance asked the Point Bonita master fund and Jefferies to guarantee the Western Alliance loan to LAM TFG I SPV LLC. Those requests were denied.
When Western Alliance agreed to forbear in any event, Western Alliance was well aware that its counterparties were limited to LAM Trade Finance Group LLC and LAM TFG I SPV LLC, and that it had no rights to assets other than First Brands receivables.
Given those facts, various of the statements made on Friday, March 6 by Western Alliance executives were false or misleading. With respect to the lawsuit, although Jefferies will respond more fully in due course, Jefferies believes there is no merit to any claims seeking to recover from Jefferies or other entities that were not obligors to Western Alliance.
Today’s letter also addresses Jefferies’ exposure to Market Financial Solutions (“MFS”). In the normal course of business, one of Jefferies’ European subsidiaries loaned MFS £103 million under a warehouse facility secured by certain of MFS’s bridge loans to residential borrowers, property investors and landlords. As noted in the letter, Jefferies believes the net impact on its Net Earnings over time from the facility with MFS is likely to be less than $20 million. The facility was sized at a level that was within Jefferies’ risk appetite and the amount of the net loss is well within our tolerance.
About Jefferies Financial Group Inc.
Jefferies (NYSE: JEF) is one of the world’s leading full-service investment banking and capital markets firms. We primarily serve public companies, private companies, and their sponsors and owners, institutional investors, and government entities. Our services are enhanced by our relentless client focus, our differentiated insights and a flat and nimble operating structure. For more information: www.jefferies.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release and its attachment contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements include statements about our future and statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are typically identified by such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “may,” “intend,” “outlook,” “will,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “should,” and other similar words and expressions, and are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, which will change over time. Forward-looking statements may contain beliefs, goals, intentions and expectations regarding revenues, earnings, operations, arrangements and other results, and may include statements of future performance, plans, and objectives. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made; we do not assume any duty, and do not undertake, to update any forward-looking statements. Furthermore, because forward-looking statements represent only our belief regarding future events, many of which by their nature are inherently uncertain, the actual results or outcomes may differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results or outcomes indicated in these forward-looking statements. Information regarding important factors, including Risk Factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ, perhaps materially, from those in our forward-looking statements is contained in reports we file with the SEC. You should read and interpret any forward-looking statement together with reports we file with the SEC. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. Therefore, it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy will be profitable or equal the corresponding indicated performance level(s).
March 9, 2026
Dear Clients, Stakeholders and Friends of Jefferies,
We write to mitigate the harm inflicted Friday on Jefferies by the false and misleading statements made by Ken Vecchione, the CEO of Western Alliance Bank (“Western Alliance”). These statements were made against the backdrop of a lawsuit filed by Western Alliance that itself contains numerous false and misleading statements. Both the lawsuit and Mr. Vecchione’s statements ignore the simple reality that Western Alliance did not extend credit to Jefferies. Instead, for over four years, Western Alliance made non-recourse loans in increasing amounts to special purpose entities that held First Brands receivables, with no guarantee or other credit support from Jefferies or any of its other affiliates.
After first stating that Jefferies had somehow “place[d its] reputation and operating integrity . . . at risk, forcing future banks, clients and counterparties to seriously reevaluate the dependability of [Jefferies’] commitments,” Mr. Vecchione, apparently referring to an amount of $126 million, stated that he would not “speculate as to what's going on at Jefferies as to why they couldn't make payments.”
To be clear, Jefferies honors all its obligations. Jefferies has no obligation to pay off a non-recourse loan Western Alliance chose to make to a special purpose vehicle against First Brands receivables. The statement that Jefferies “couldn’t” repay $126 million is false and absurd.
As we have previously acknowledged, the First Brands situation could cause Jefferies financial loss over time. We also said we were confident any losses or expenses in respect of First Brands can readily be absorbed and do not threaten our robust financial condition or business momentum. This remains our belief and is unchanged by this lawsuit or any other information we have received.
To further clarify our relationship with Western Alliance, please note the following facts:
In 2021, Western Alliance began lending money to LAM Trade Finance Group LLC, an entity owned by the Point Bonita master fund whose business is to purchase First Brands receivables. Western Alliance more recently has made loans to LAM TFG I SPV LLC, a special purpose vehicle that likewise is owned by the Point Bonita master fund and exists to hold First Brands receivables.
The Loan Agreement currently at issue is between Western Alliance and LAM TFG I SPV LLC. Under a related agreement, LAM Trade Finance Group LLC purchased receivables from First Brands and sold those receivables to LAM TFG I SPV LLC, which borrowed money from Western Alliance. Under the loan documents, Western Alliance's sole recourse was to the receivables in the SPV. Indeed, the governing Loan Agreement expressly precludes Western Alliance from seeking to recover from the SPV’s shareholders, managers or affiliated entities.
During the entire time Western Alliance was lending against the First Brands receivables, it was entitled to thoroughly examine all matters related to LAM Trade Finance Group LLC and LAM TFG I SPV, as well as to audit the First Brands receivables it was lending against.
Shortly before First Brands’ bankruptcy filing in September 2025, when Western Alliance was discussing a forbearance, Western Alliance asked to have the Point Bonita master fund and Jefferies itself guarantee the loan. Those requests were denied. Western Alliance nonetheless proceeded to enter into a forbearance with LAM TFG I SPV LLC and LAM Trade Finance Group LLC, with no guarantees from Jefferies or other entities.
We are genuinely sorry that Western Alliance has joined the ranks of the dozens of financial institutions, including Jefferies, that are facing losses because of the fraud at First Brands. We would note, though, that unlike many other investors, which have yet to recover any of their investments in First Brands, Western Alliance has been repaid more than half the amount it has loaned. Jefferies will respond in more detail to the lawsuit in due course. To be clear, however, Jefferies believes there is no merit to any claims seeking to recover from Jefferies and other entities that were not obligors on Western Alliance’s loans.
On a separate matter, we want to comment on our exposure to Market Financial Solutions (“MFS”). One of our European subsidiaries loaned MFS £103 million under a warehouse facility secured by certain of MFS’s bridge loans to residential borrowers, property investors and landlords. It now appears that some of the collateral underlying that facility may have been double-pledged. At this time, we have already recovered approximately 25% of our facility in cash and believe that a further approximately 40% is secured by valid loans, while we are continuing to review the remainder of the portfolio. We believe the net impact on our Net Earnings over time from our facility with MFS is likely to be less than $20 million.
This facility was extended to MFS in the normal course of business as part of our broader effort in Asset Backed Securitization (“ABS”), where warehouse facilities are provided to accumulate a package of loans that are then securitized or otherwise sold to a range of counterparties. In this case, we intended to, and were in the process of, selling 85% of the underlying facility amount and retaining 15%. The facility was sized at a level that was within our risk appetite and the amount of the net loss is well within our tolerance. We realize meaningful profit from our activities in ABS, including CLOs, and while our involvement in MFS was disappointing, it is within our risk appetite.
As we said back in October, we take the First Brands matter extremely seriously and we regret that we, our co-investors in the Point Bonita fund, and other stakeholders, have been impacted by the First Brands fraud. We would also reiterate our belief that, no matter what the ultimate outcome is, the impact of the First Brands fraud on Jefferies, while unfortunate, is manageable, and any losses will be readily absorbed.
RICH HANDLER
CEO
Jefferies Financial Group
BRIAN FRIEDMAN
President
Jefferies Financial Group
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260309247405/en/
For inquiries, please contact:
Jonathan Freedman
mediacontact@jefferies.com
Original: Jefferies Discloses Facts About Western Alliance and Western Alliance’s Loan Solely Against First Brands Receivables
US Market News
4月前
SMBC Group’s Yoshihiro Hyakutome Nominated to Jefferies Board of Directors As Focus Intensifies on Global Strategic AllianceFebruary 11, 2026 4:15 PM
Business Wire
Jefferies Financial Group Inc. (“Jefferies”) and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (collectively, “SMBC Group”) announced today that Yoshihiro Hyakutome, Deputy President, Executive Officer and Co-Head of the Global Business Unit of SMBC Group, has been identified by SMBC Group as a candidate to be a member of the Jefferies Board of Directors, replacing Toru Nakashima, CEO of SMBC Group.
Mr. Nakashima has served as a board member since August 2024, upon SMBC Group’s investment in Jefferies exceeding 10%, and will be serving until the end of his term. As the Global Strategic Alliance between Jefferies and SMBC Group becomes increasingly operational and with the Alliance partners preparing for the Japan equities joint venture commencing operations in January 2027, SMBC Group determined to have the Co-Head of its Global Business Unit become an active member of the Jefferies Board. The Jefferies Board unanimously approved adding Mr. Hyakutome to the director nominee slate, and Mr. Hyakutome will be standing for election at the upcoming Jefferies Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
Consistent with agreements between Jefferies and SMBC Group, and as previously announced on September 19, 2025, SMBC intends to increase its economic ownership of Jefferies to up to 20% (on an as-converted and fully diluted basis) by purchasing another approximately 13 million shares of Jefferies common shares in the open market. SMBC will continue to own less than 5% of a voting interest in Jefferies. The increased investment is subject to receipt of required applicable regulatory approvals.
Mr. Nakashima stated: “My time on the Jefferies board has confirmed that our Global Strategic Alliance with Jefferies was and is the smart strategic step forward for SMBC Group. Our enhanced collaborations and increased investment in Jefferies will cement our firms’ partnership and align with our long-term goal of bringing world class, full-service financial capabilities to our combined client base. I am extremely pleased that my trusted colleague, Mr. Hyakutome, has been nominated as a candidate to succeed me as a director on the Jefferies Board and I intend to stay actively involved with further enhancing this strategic partnership.”
Mr. Hyakutome stated: “I am truly delighted to have been nominated as a candidate to join the Jefferies Board of Directors, which will enable me to help advance the strategy that Mr. Nakashima and the team at Jefferies designed to further align our firms and mutually benefit from each other's complementary strengths. Having been closely involved in the partnership with Jefferies since 2021, I look forward to working with the Board, Mr. Handler, Mr. Friedman, and the broader Jefferies team to deepen our collaboration and deliver even greater value for our clients and stakeholders worldwide."
Rich Handler, Jefferies’ CEO, and Brian Friedman, Jefferies’ President stated: “It has been our honor to have Mr. Nakashima as a board member for the past 18 months. We could not be more excited about our continued prospects and know that Mr. Hyakutome is the right person to help us execute our joint mission.”
About Jefferies Financial Group Inc.
Jefferies (NYSE: JEF) is one of the world’s leading full-service investment banking and capital markets firms. We primarily serve public companies, private companies, and their sponsors and owners, institutional investors, and government entities. Our services are enhanced by our relentless client focus, our differentiated insights and a flat and nimble operating structure. For more information: www.jefferies.com.
Additional Information and Where to Find it
Jefferies intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A in connection with the solicitation of proxies from its shareholders for its 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. INVESTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF JEFFERIES ARE URGED TO READ ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC, INCLUDING JEFFERIES’ PROXY STATEMENT (IF AND WHEN AVAILABLE), BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN OR WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and security holders are or will be able to obtain the documents (if and when available) free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or free of charge from Jefferies by directing a request to Laura Ulbrandt DiPierro, Corporate Secretary, 520 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022.
Participants in the Solicitation
Jefferies and its directors, executive officers and other members of management and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be “participants” in the solicitation of proxies from shareholders of Jefferies in connection with matters to be considered at Jefferies’ 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Information about Jefferies’ directors and executive officers is set forth in Jefferies’ Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A for its 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which was filed with the SEC on February 14, 2025. To the extent holdings of Jefferies’ securities by its directors or executive officers have changed since the amounts set forth in such 2025 proxy statement, such changes have been or will be reflected on Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership on Form 3 or Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC. Additional information concerning the direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, of Jefferies’ participants in the solicitation, which may, in some cases, be different than those of Jefferies’ shareholders generally, will be set forth in Jefferies’ Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A to be filed with the SEC in connection with its 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders when it becomes available.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements include statements about our future and statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are typically identified by such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “may,” “intend,” “outlook,” “will,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “should,” and other similar words and expressions, and are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which will change over time. Forward-looking statements may contain beliefs, goals, intentions and expectations regarding revenues, earnings, operations, arrangements and other results, and may include statements of future performance, plans, and objectives. Forward-looking statements also include statements pertaining to our strategies for future development of our businesses and products. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made; we do not assume any duty, and do not undertake, to update any forward-looking statements. Furthermore, because forward-looking statements represent only our belief regarding future events, many of which by their nature are inherently uncertain, the actual results or outcomes may differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results or outcomes indicated in these forward-looking statements. Information regarding important factors, including risk factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ, perhaps materially, from those in our forward-looking statements, is contained in reports we file with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2025. You should read and interpret any forward-looking statement together with reports we file or furnish with the SEC. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. Therefore, it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy will be profitable or equal the corresponding indicated performance level(s).
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260211697530/en/
For inquiries, please contact:
Jonathan Freedman
Head of Marketing and Communications
Jefferies Financial Group Inc.
mediacontact@jefferies.com
Original: SMBC Group’s Yoshihiro Hyakutome Nominated to Jefferies Board of Directors As Focus Intensifies on Global Strategic Alliance