BUSEP: An 8.25% Preferred Stock IPO From First Busey Corporation

  • First Busey Corporation's new 8.25% Series B Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock (BUSEP) offers a high yield and favorable tax treatment. First Busey's solid capital structure and long dividend history provide some cushions for the preferred shares, but sector underperformance is a concern. Compared to unrated regional bank peers and B-rated peers from all sectors, BUSEP has high yield but limited capital appreciation potential, making it less attractive currently.