A key group of Venezuelan bondholders is poised to appoint Houlihan Lokey as their financial advisor, according to sources cited by multiple news outlets on Monday, February 9, 2026.
The move signals a potential step toward restructuring Venezuela’s substantial debt, which includes around $60 billion in defaulted sovereign bonds and an estimated total external debt ranging from $150 billion to $170 billion, encompassing other obligations, bilateral loans and arbitration awards. The appointment of an advisor is a critical step for creditors seeking to negotiate with the Venezuelan government and state oil company Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA).
The creditor committee indicated on January 9, 2026, its readiness to begin debt restructuring discussions once authorization for such talks is granted. Currently, U.S. Sanctions complicate interactions with the Venezuelan government without a specific exemption or license.
Houlihan Lokey’s potential involvement comes as Venezuela and PDVSA have been in default on bond payments since 2017. The decision by the creditor group to seek external counsel underscores the complexity of the negotiations and the significant financial stakes involved.
Houlihan Lokey did not immediately respond to a request for comment, Reuters reported.
