Several Chilean issuers are holding off domestic bond transactions until next year in the face of comparatively high spreads. For instance, Caja de Compensacion La Araucana is now targeting next year for a CLP40bn ($77m) 5-year bond, which had been expected as soon as December. Like other Chilean issuers, La Araucana has decided to wait until next year with the hope that it can lock in cheaper pricing then. As the company doesn’t have a pressing need for the funding, it can wait, says a person familiar with the process. BCI is managing the sale. Araucana is rated A on a national scale. Quinenco has also postponed its up to UF4.65m ($200m) local market bond offering, which was previously expected to price by month’s end. It is instead looking at the beginning of January, says a person knowledgeable about the transaction. The holding vehicle for the Luksic family is preparing a 7-year bond of up to UF2.3m in size with a 3.5% coupon and 2-year grace period, and a 21-year bond of up to UF2.3m with a 4% coupon and an up 15-year grace period. It will use the proceeds for its investment. Banchile and BBVA are managing.