To assess the suitability of REN – Redes Energéticas Nacionais, SGPS, S.A. for issuing hybrid bonds, we consider the following: 1. **Capital Structure and Leverage**: The company carries a significant amount of debt. As of the start of 2023, it reported "Longterm Borrowings" of approximately 1.695 billion EUR and "Current Borrowings" of 638.9 million EUR. While the company has a strong equity base (1.517 billion EUR), the nature of its utility business often relies on high debt levels to fund infrastructure. 2. **Cash Flow Stability**: The company operates in a regulated energy utility sector, providing predictable, stable cash flows ("Revenue From Rendering Of Services" is 588.1 million EUR). Stable cash flow is a prerequisite for servicing the coupon payments associated with hybrid bonds. 3. **Financial Health**: The company is profitable (111.77 million EUR profit for 2022) and has consistently paid dividends (102.15 million EUR for 2022). Its ability to access capital markets for traditional debt is proven, and hybrid instruments could allow it to optimize its capital structure or fund large-scale energy projects while maintaining credit ratings. 4. **Nature of Hybrid Bonds**: Hybrid bonds are typically used by companies that wish to strengthen their capital base (as equity-like instruments) without diluting existing shareholders, especially when the company has high investment requirements (as evidenced by its high "Intangible Assets" of 4.07 billion EUR, typical for energy concession assets). Given the stable utility revenue model, strong capital reserves, and the ongoing need for capital investment in infrastructure, REN appears to be a good candidate for hybrid instruments to manage leverage while supporting strategic investments. Strongly Suitable