Alabama Retirement Systems , Montgomery, will lend $20 million to...

Alabama Retirement Systems, Montgomery, will lend $20 million to FiberCore Inc. to help it fund its first U.S. manufacturing plant, to be located in Auburn, Ala., said Lance Lachney, fixed-income analyst at the $25 billion system. FiberCore, a manufacturer and supplier of optical fiber, will contribute $10 million toward the $30 million project. The plant’s property and equipment will serve as collateral for the 15-year loan, which will carry an interest rate of 8%, Mr. Lachney said.