Arch Coal plans to cut $4.5 billion in debt from its balance sheet after suffering through a prolonged coal market downturn. Arch Coal has about 4,600 employees. As we have previously reported, coal related companies around the world are being pushed to the brink of bankruptcy due to the falling prices of commodities. Other bankruptcy filings this year include Walter Energy (Stock Symbol: WLTGQ), JW Resources, Patriot Coal, Xinergy, and James River Coal Co. among others. According to Bloomberg, more than three dozen coal operations have filed bankruptcy in just over three years. Due to a combination of factors the combined market value of U.S. coal company shares shrank to $12 billion in late July 2015 from $78 billion in 2011.
In the case of Arch Coal the company became saddled with debt since its 2011 acquisition of International Coal Group and then was unable to overcome a range of negative market trends including a drop in coal prices. The company expects its mining operations and shipments to continue uninterrupted through the reorganization process. According to sources, 25 percent of U.S. coal industry is currently in bankruptcy.
Before recommending investments in commodities related investments, brokers and advisors must ensure that the investment is appropriate for the investor and conduct due diligence on the company in order to understand the risks and prospects of the company. Many of these companies relied upon high energy prices in order to sustain their operations.
Brokers who sell commodities products are obligated to understand the risks of these investments and convey them to clients. Investors who have suffered losses may be able recover their losses through securities arbitration. Our consultations are free of charge and the firm is only compensated if you recover.