The Hungarian government recently secured a EUR 1 billion loan from China under more favourable terms than the market, according to Finance Minister Mihály Varga, who did not disclose details about the interest rates. Varga hinted that Hungary might issue a Samurai bond in Japan this fall.
Issuance of new foreign bond on the horizon
Source: Facebook/Varga Mihály
The government’s goal is to involve more Hungarian institutional investors, such as banks and insurance companies, in purchasing Hungarian government securities. This approach aims to reduce the reliance on foreign and retail investors, which could also impact the conditions of retail government bonds. Varga told ATV that while the loan’s terms are favourable compared to market conditions and will mainly fund infrastructure development, further details on interest rates and usage were not provided.
Varga explained, “Disclosing additional information could harm business interests in bilateral agreements.”
New partners
He noted that Hungary’s debt management strategy has long relied on multiple sources to diversify its capital requirements. In recent years, in addition to traditional Anglo-Saxon and European markets, Qatar, Japan, and China have become significant partners.
A Samurai bond issuance in Japan is planned for this fall.
The minister highlighted the traditionally good relationship with China, citing previous issuances of Panda bonds, including Green Panda Bonds aimed at supporting green transitions. The current loan, negotiated at a favourable rate, will primarily support transportation and energy infrastructure projects.
Foreign currency debt at “appropriate level”
In a previous interview with Inforádió, Economic Minister Márton Nagy mentioned that Hungary’s foreign currency debt is at an appropriate level. However, he stressed the importance of prioritising debt issuance in Hungarian forints and extending its maturity. The regulation of investment funds and insurers, encouraging them to purchase government bonds, was also discussed.
Nagy pointed out that this year’s primary balance of the state budget shows a balance, with the deficit only arising from state interest expenses. The primary balance is neutral, and the deficit corresponds to the size of the interest expenses, amounting to 4.3-4.5%. Next year, these interest expenses are expected to decrease significantly to 3.4-3.5% of GDP.
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