Africa: Mozambique Becomes Africa’s Most Distressed Sovereign As Spreads Surge

Mozambique has overtaken Senegal as Africa’s most distressed sovereign borrower, as rising global energy costs add pressure to its finances.

The country’s sovereign yield spread widened to 1,473 basis points, surpassing Senegal’s 1,423 basis points, according to data tracked by JPMorgan Chase. Spreads above 1,000 basis points are widely seen as a sign of distress.

Mozambique’s $900 million bond due in 2031 has fallen to about 74.29 cents on the dollar after 13 consecutive days of losses. The yield…