UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2016
OR
For the transition period to
Commission File No. 000-54899
CARLYLE GMS FINANCE, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
520 Madison Avenue, 38th Floor, New York, NY 10022
(Address of principal executive office) (Zip Code)
(212) 813-4900
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
N/A
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days: Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ¨ No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer
¨
Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
x (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No x
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
Class
Outstanding at November 10, 2016
INDEX
Part I.
Financial Information
Item 1.
Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities as of September 30, 2016 (unaudited) and December 31, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 (unaudited) and September 30, 2015 (unaudited)
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 (unaudited) and September 30, 2015 (unaudited)
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 (unaudited) and September 30, 2015 (unaudited)
Consolidated Schedules of Investments as of September 30, 2016 (unaudited) andDecember 31, 2015
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
Part II.
Legal Proceedings
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
Mine Safety Disclosures
Item 5.
Other Information
Item 6.
Exhibits
Signatures
2
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
(dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data)
ASSETS
Investments, at fair value
Investments—non-controlled/non-affiliated, at fair value (amortized cost of $1,333,671 and $1,079,720, respectively)
Investments—controlled/affiliated, at fair value (amortized cost of $55,801 and $0, respectively)
Total investments, at fair value (amortized cost of $1,389,472 and $1,079,720, respectively)
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivable for investment sold
Deferred financing costs
Interest receivable from non-controlled/non-affiliated investments
Interest and dividend receivable from controlled/affiliated investments
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Total assets
LIABILITIES
Payable for investments purchased
Secured borrowings (Note 6)
2015-1 Notes payable, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $2,202 and $2,356, respectively (Note 7)
Due to Investment Adviser
Interest and credit facility fees payable (Notes 6 and 7)
Dividend payable (Note 9)
Base management and incentive fees payable (Note 4)
Administrative service fees payable (Note 4)
Other accrued expenses and liabilities
Total liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 8 and 11)
NET ASSETS
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 200,000,000 shares authorized; 39,791,482 shares and 31,524,083 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively
Paid-in capital in excess of par value
Offering costs
Accumulated net investment income (loss), net of cumulative dividends of $109,048 and $65,851 at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively
Accumulated net realized gain (loss)
Accumulated net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
Total net assets
NET ASSETS PER SHARE
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
3
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited)
Investment income:
Interest income from non-controlled/non-affiliated investments
Other income from non-controlled/non-affiliated investments
Interest income from controlled/affiliated investments
Dividend income from controlled/affiliated investments
Total investment income
Expenses:
Base management fees (Note 4)
Incentive fees (Note 4)
Professional fees
Administrative service fees (Note 4)
Interest expense (Notes 6 and 7)
Credit facility fees (Note 6)
Directors’ fees and expenses
Other general and administrative
Total expenses
Waiver of base management fees (Note 4)
Net expenses
Net investment income (loss)
Net realized gain (loss) and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments:
Net realized gain (loss) on investments—non-controlled/non-affiliated
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments—non-controlled/non-affiliated
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments—controlled/affiliated
Net realized gain (loss) and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations
Basic and diluted earnings per common share (Note 9)
Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding—Basic and Diluted (Note 9)
Dividends declared per common share (Note 9)
4
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
(dollar amounts in thousands)
Increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations:
Net realized gain (loss) on investments
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments
Capital transactions:
Common stock issued
Reinvestment of dividends
Dividends declared (Note 12)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
Net assets at beginning of period
Net assets at end of period
5
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Cash flows from operating activities:
Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Amortization of deferred financing costs
Net accretion of discount on investments
Net realized (gain) loss on investments
Net change in unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on investments
Cost of investments purchased and change in payable for investments purchased
Proceeds from sales and repayments of investments and change in receivable for investments sold
Changes in operating assets:
Interest receivable
Dividend receivable
Changes in operating liabilities:
Interest and credit facility fees payable
Base management and incentive fees payable
Administrative service fees payable
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
Borrowings on Revolving Credit Facility and Facility
Repayments of Revolving Credit Facility and Facility
Proceeds from issuance of 2015-1 Notes
Debt issuance costs paid
Dividends paid in cash
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
Supplemental disclosures:
Offering expenses and debt issuance costs due
Interest paid during the period
Dividends declared during the period
6
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
As of September 30, 2016
Investments—non-controlled/non-affiliated (1)
Industry
First Lien Debt (80.61%)
Access CIG, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
AF Borrower LLC (Accuvant) (2) (3) (4) (13)
Alpha Packaging Holdings, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Anaren, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Audax AAMP Holdings, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
BAART Programs, Inc. (2) (4)
Blue Bird Body Company (2) (3) (4) (8) (13)
Brooks Equipment Company, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
Capstone Logistics Acquisition, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Captive Resources Midco, LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (9) (13)
Castle Management Borrower LLC (Highgate Hotels L.P.)(2) (3) (4) (13)
Central Security Group, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (5) (13)
CIP Revolution Holdings, LLC (2) (3) (5) (22)
Colony Hardware Corporation (2) (3) (4) (5) (13)
Datapipe, Inc. (2) (3) (5)
Dent Wizard International Corporation (2) (3) (4) (13)
Derm Growth Partners III, LLC (Dermatology Associates)(2) (3) (4) (5) (13) (18)
Dimensional Dental Management, LLC (2) (3) (5) (12) (15)
DTI Holdco, Inc. (2) (3) (5)
Emerging Markets Communications, LLC (2) (3) (4) (8) (13)
EP Minerals, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
EIP Merger Sub, LLC (Evolve IP) (2) (3) (4) (5) (12)
FCX Holdings Corp. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Genex Holdings, Inc. (2) (3) (13)
Global Software, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
Green Energy Partners/Stonewall LLC (2) (3) (5) (13)
Hummel Station LLC (2) (3) (5) (13)
Imagine! Print Solutions, LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (13)
Imperial Bag & Paper Co. LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (13)
Indra Holdings Corp. (Totes Isotoner) (2) (3) (5) (13)
International Medical Group, Inc. (2) (3) (5) (12)
7
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
First Lien Debt (80.61%) (continued)
Jackson Hewitt Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Ministry Brands, LLC (2) (3) (5) (10) (23)
Ministry Brands, LLC (2) (3) (5) (12) (24)
MSX International, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
National Technical Systems, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13) (14)
NES Global Talent Finance US LLC (United Kingdom)(2) (3)(4) (8) (13)
OnCourse Learning Corporation (2) (3) (4) (5) (13) (26)
Paradigm Acquisition Corp. (2) (3) (4) (5) (13)
Pelican Products, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Plano Molding Company, LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (13)
Premier Senior Marketing, LLC (2) (3) (5)
Product Quest Manufacturing, LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (12)
Prowler Acquisition Corp. (Pipeline Supply and Service, LLC) (2) (3) (4)
PSC Industrial Holdings Corp (2) (3) (4) (13)
PSI Services LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (12)
PT Intermediate Holdings III, LLC (Parts Town)(2) (3) (4) (5) (13) (27)
QW Holding Corporation (Quala) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Reliant Pro Rehab, LLC (2) (3) (5) (12)
SolAero Technologies Corp. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Superior Health Linens, LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (13) (28)
Synarc-Biocore Holdings, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
T2 Systems, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (5) (13) (25)
T2 Systems Canada, Inc. (2) (3) (5)
Teaching Strategies, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
The Hilb Group, LLC (2) (3) (5) (12) (19)
The SI Organization, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
The Topps Company, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
TK USA Enterprises, Inc. (2) (3) (5) (20)
TruckPro, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
TwentyEighty, Inc. (fka Miller Heiman, Inc.)(2) (3) (4) (13)
U.S. Farathane, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
U.S. TelePacific Holdings Corp. (2) (3) (5)
8
Vetcor Professional Practices, LLC (2) (3) (4) (5) (13) (16)
Violin Finco S.A.R.L. (Alexander Mann Solutions) (United Kingdom) (2) (3) (4) (8) (13)
Vistage Worldwide, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Vitera Healthcare Solutions, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
Winchester Electronics Corporation (2) (3) (5) (29)
Zest Holdings, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
First Lien Debt Total
Second Lien Debt (14.20%)
AF Borrower LLC (Accuvant) (2) (3) (5)
AIM Group USA Inc. (2) (3) (5) (13)
AmeriLife Group, LLC (2) (3) (5)
Argon Medical Devices, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Berlin Packaging L.L.C. (2) (3) (5) (13)
Charter NEX US Holdings, Inc. (2) (3) (5) (13)
Confie Seguros Holding II Co. (2) (3) (5)
Drew Marine Group Inc. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Genex Holdings, Inc. (2) (3) (5)
Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Company, LLC (2) (3) (5) (13)
Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (2) (3) (5) (13)
Jazz Acquisition, Inc. (Wencor) (2) (3) (5) (13)
MRI Software, LLC (2) (3) (5)
Phillips-Medisize Corporation (2) (3) (5) (13)
Power Stop, LLC (5) (17)
Prime Security Services Borrower, LLC (Protection One, Inc.)(2) (3) (5)(13)
Prowler Acquisition Corp. (Pipeline Supply and Service,LLC) (2) (3) (5)
Systems Maintenance Services Holding, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
Vitera Healthcare Solutions, LLC (2) (3) (4)
Watchfire Enterprises, Inc. (2) (3) (5) (13)
Second Lien Debt Total
9
Structured Finance Obligations (0.56%) (5) (8) (11)
1776 CLO I, Ltd., Subordinated Notes
Babson CLO Ltd., 2005-I, Subordinated Notes
Clydesdale CLO 2005, Ltd., Subordinated Notes
MSIM Peconic Bay, Ltd., Subordinated Notes
Nautique Funding Ltd., Income Notes
Venture VI CDO Limited, Preference Shares
Structured Finance Obligations Total
Equity Investments (0.45%) (5)
CIP Revolution Investments, LLC
Derm Growth Partners III, LLC (Dermatology Associates)
GS Holdco LLC (Global Software, LLC)
Power Stop Intermediate Holdings, LLC
T2 Systems Parent Corporation
THG Acquisition, LLC (The Hilb Group, LLC)
Equity Investments Total
Total investments—non-controlled/non-affiliated
Investments—controlled/affiliated
Investment Fund (4.18%) (8)
Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC, Mezzanine Loan(2) (5) (17) (21)
Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC, Subordinated Loan and Member’s Interest (5) (21)
Investment Fund Total
Total investments—controlled/affiliated
Total investments
10
11
12
As of September 30, 2016, investments at fair value consisted of the following:
Type
First Lien Debt
Second Lien Debt
Structured Finance Obligations
Equity Investments
Investment Fund
Total
The industrial composition of investments at fair value as of September 30, 2016 was as follows:
Aerospace & Defense
Automotive
Banking, Finance, Insurance & Real Estate
Business Services
Capital Equipment
Chemicals, Plastics & Rubber
Construction & Building
Consumer Services
Containers, Packaging & Glass
Durable Consumer Goods
Energy: Electricity
Energy: Oil & Gas
Environmental Industries
Forest Products & Paper
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
High Tech Industries
Hotel, Gaming & Leisure
Media: Advertising, Printing & Publishing
Metals & Mining
Non-durable Consumer Goods
Retail
Software
Structured Finance
Telecommunications
Transportation: Cargo
Transportation: Consumer
Wholesale
13
The geographical composition of investments at fair value as of September 30, 2016 was as follows:
Geography
Cayman Islands
United Kingdom
United States
14
As of December 31, 2015
First Lien Debt (75.53%)
AF Borrower LLC (Accuvant) (2) (3) (5) (13)
APX Group, Inc. (5) (8)
Captive Resources Midco, LLC (2) (3) (4) (9) (13)
Castle Management Borrower LLC (Highgate Hotels L.P.) (2) (3) (4) (13)
Central Security Group, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
Colony Hardware Corporation (2) (3) (5) (13)
CRCI Holdings Inc. (CLEAResult Consulting, Inc.)(2) (3) (4) (13)
Emerging Markets Communications, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
Hummel Station LLC (2) (3) (5)
International Medical Group, Inc.(2) (3) (5) (12)
Language Line, LLC (2) (3) (4) (13)
Ministry Brands, LLC (2) (3) (5) (10) (18)
Ministry Brands, LLC (2) (3) (5) (12) (19)
National Technical Systems, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (5) (13) (14)
NES Global Talent Finance US LLC (United Kingdom)(2) (3) (4) (8) (13)
Paradigm Acquisition Corp. (2) (3) (5) (13)
15
First Lien Debt (75.53%) (continued)
Plano Molding Company, LLC (2) (3) (5) (13)
SolAero Technologies Corp. (2) (3) (4)
SolAero Technologies Corp. (2) (3) (13)
Systems Maintenance Services Holding, Inc.(2) (3) (13)
TASC, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (8) (13)
The Hilb Group, LLC (2) (3) (5) (12) (13) (15)
The Hygenic Corporation (Performance Health)(2) (3) (4) (13)
Violin Finco S.A.R.L. (Alexander Mann Solutions)
(United Kingdom) (2) (3) (4) (8) (13)
Zest Holdings, LLC (2) (3) (4)(13)
16
Second Lien Debt (19.98%)
Allied Security Holdings LLC (2) (3) (5) (13)
Creganna Finance (US) LLC (Ireland) (2) (3) (5) (8)
DiversiTech Corporation (2) (3) (5) (13)
Drew Marine Group Inc. (2) (3) 4) (5)
Landslide Holdings, Inc. (LANDesk Software)(2) (3) (13)
Prime Security Services Borrower, LLC (Protection One, Inc.) (2) (3) (5)
Prowler Acquisition Corp. (Pipeline Supply and Service, LLC) (2) (3) (5)
TASC, Inc. (5) (8)
17
Structured Finance Obligations (4.26%) (5) (8) (11)
AIMCO CLO, Series 2014-A, Class F, 5.47%(2)
AIMCO CLO, Series 2014-A, Subordinated Notes
Ares XXVIII CLO Ltd., Subordinated Notes
Babson CLO Ltd. 2005-I, Subordinated Notes
CIFC Funding 2007-III, Ltd., Income Notes
Flagship VII Limited, Subordinated Notes
ING IM CLO 2012-1 LLC, Preferred Shares
ING IM CLO 2012- 1 LLC, Subordinated Notes
Steele Creek CLO 2014-I, LLC, Subordinated Notes
Westwood CDO I, Ltd., Subordinated Notes
Equity Investments (0.23%) (5)
Total Investments—non-controlled/non-affiliated
18
19
As of December 31, 2015, investments at fair value consisted of the following:
The industrial composition of investments at fair value as of December 31, 2015 was as follows:
Utilities: Electric
20
The geographical composition of investments at fair value as of December 31, 2015 was as follows:
Ireland
21
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)
1. ORGANIZATION
Carlyle GMS Finance, Inc. (“GMS Finance” or the “Company”) is a Maryland corporation formed on February 8, 2012, and structured as an externally managed, non-diversified closed-end investment company. GMS Finance has elected to be regulated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the “Investment Company Act”). GMS Finance has elected to be treated, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements to qualify annually, as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).
GMS Finance’s investment objective is to generate current income and capital appreciation primarily through debt investments in U.S. middle market companies, which the Company defines as companies with approximately $10 million to $100 million of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”). GMS Finance seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing primarily in first lien senior secured loans (which may include stand-alone first lien loans; first lien/last out loans, which are loans that have a secondary priority behind first lien/first out loans; “unitranche” loans, which are loans that combine features of first lien, second lien or subordinated loans, generally in a first lien position; and secured corporate bonds with features similar to the features of these categories of first lien loans) and second lien senior secured loans (which may include senior secured loans, and, to a lesser extent, secured corporate bonds, with a secondary priority behind first lien loans) (collectively, “Middle Market Senior Loans”). The Middle Market Senior Loans are generally made to private U.S. middle market companies that are, in many cases, controlled by private equity firms. Depending on market conditions, GMS Finance expects that between 70% and 80% of the value of its assets will be invested in Middle Market Senior Loans, with the balance invested in higher-yielding investments, which may include middle market junior loans such as corporate mezzanine loans, equity co-investments, broadly syndicated first lien and second lien senior secured loans, high-yield bonds, structured finance obligations and/or other opportunistic investments. GMS Finance expects that the composition of its portfolio will change over time given Carlyle GMS Investment Management L.L.C.’s (the “Investment Adviser”) view on, among other things, the economic and credit environment (including with respect to interest rates) in which the Company is operating.
On May 2, 2013, GMS Finance completed its initial closing of capital commitments (the “Initial Closing”) and subsequently commenced substantial investment operations. If GMS Finance has not consummated an initial public offering of its common stock that results in an unaffiliated public float of at least 15% of the aggregate capital commitments received prior to the date of such initial public offering (a “Qualified IPO”) by May 2, 2018, then GMS Finance (subject to any necessary stockholder approvals and applicable requirements of the Investment Company Act) will use its best efforts to wind down and/or liquidate and dissolve.
GMS Finance is an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012. GMS Finance will remain an emerging growth company for up to five years following an initial public offering, although if the market value of the common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of any June 30 before that time, GMS Finance would cease to be an emerging growth company as of the following December 31.
GMS Finance is externally managed by the Investment Adviser, an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Carlyle GMS Finance Administration L.L.C. (the “Administrator”) provides the administrative services necessary for GMS Finance to operate. Both the Investment Adviser and the Administrator are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Carlyle Investment Management L.L.C., a subsidiary of The Carlyle Group L.P. “Carlyle” refers to The Carlyle Group L.P., its affiliates and its
22
consolidated subsidiaries, a global alternative asset manager publicly traded on NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “CG”. Refer to the sec.gov website for further information on Carlyle.
Carlyle GMS Finance SPV LLC (the “Borrower Sub”) is a Delaware limited liability company that was formed on January 3, 2013. The Borrower Sub invests in first and second lien senior secured loans. The Borrower Sub is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and is consolidated in these consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of its formation, January 3, 2013.
On June 26, 2015, the Company completed a $400 million term debt securitization (the “2015-1 Debt Securitization”). The notes offered in the 2015-1 Debt Securitization (the “2015-1 Notes”) were issued by Carlyle GMS Finance MM CLO 2015-1 LLC (the “2015-1 Issuer”), a wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of the Company, and are secured by a diversified portfolio of the 2015-1 Issuer consisting primarily of first and second lien senior secured loans. Refer to Note 7 for details. The 2015-1 Issuer is consolidated in these consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of its formation, May 8, 2015.
On February 29, 2016, the Company and Credit Partners USA LLC (“Credit Partners”) entered into an amended and restated limited liability company agreement (as amended, the “Limited Liability Company Agreement”) to co-manage Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC (“Credit Fund”). Credit Fund primarily invests in first lien loans of middle-market companies. Credit Fund is managed by a six-member board of managers, on which the Company and Credit Partners each have equal representation. The Company and Credit Partners each have 50% economic ownership of Credit Fund and have commitments to fund, from time to time, capital of up to $400,000 each. Refer to Note 5, Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC, for details.
As a BDC, GMS Finance is required to comply with certain regulatory requirements. As part of these requirements, the Company must not acquire any assets other than “qualifying assets” specified in the Investment Company Act unless, at the time the acquisition is made, at least 70% of its total assets are qualifying assets (with certain limited exceptions).
GMS Finance has elected to be treated, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements to qualify annually, as a RIC under the Code, and operates in a manner so as to qualify for the tax treatment applicable to RICs. To qualify as a RIC, GMS Finance must, among other things, meet certain source-of-income and asset diversification requirements and timely distribute to its stockholders generally at least 90% of its investment company taxable income, as defined by the Code, for each year. Pursuant to this election, GMS Finance generally does not have to pay corporate level taxes on any income that it distributes to stockholders, provided that GMS Finance satisfies those requirements.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“US GAAP”). The Company is an investment company for the purposes of accounting and financial reporting in accordance with Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-08, Financial Services—Investment Companies (“ASU 2013-08”): Amendments to the Scope, Measurement and Disclosure Requirements. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of GMS Finance and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, the Borrower Sub and the 2015-1 Issuer. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. US GAAP for an investment company requires investments to be recorded at fair value. The carrying value for all other assets and liabilities approximates their fair value.
The interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP for interim financial information and pursuant to the requirements for reporting on Form 10-Q and Articles 6 and 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, certain disclosures accompanying the annual consolidated financial statements prepared in
23
accordance with US GAAP are omitted. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for the fair presentation of consolidated financial statements for the interim period presented have been included. These adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. The results of operations for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make assumptions and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management’s estimates are based on historical experiences and other factors, including expectations of future events that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. It also requires management to exercise judgment in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies. Assumptions and estimates regarding the valuation of investments and their resulting impact on base management and incentive fees involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity and these assumptions and estimates may be significant to the consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates and such differences could be material.
Investments
Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Realized gains or losses are measured by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the amortized cost basis of the investment using the specific identification method without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized, and includes investments charged off during the period, net of recoveries. Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments as presented in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflects the net change in the fair value of investments, including the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation or depreciation when gains or losses are realized. See Note 3 for further information about fair value measurements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of demand deposits and highly liquid investments (e.g., money market funds, U.S. treasury notes) with original maturities of three months or less. Cash equivalents are carried at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents are held with two large financial institutions and cash held in such financial institutions may, at times, exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limit.
Revenue Recognition
Interest from Investments and Realized Gain/Loss on Investments
Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis and includes the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Discounts from and premiums to par value on debt investments purchased are accreted/amortized into interest income over the life of the respective security using the effective interest method. The amortized cost of debt investments represents the original cost, including origination fees, adjusted for the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, if any. At time of exit, the realized gain or loss on an investment is the difference between the amortized cost at time of exit and the cash received at exit using the specific identification method.
The Company may have loans in its portfolio that contain payment-in-kind (“PIK”) provisions. PIK represents interest that is accrued and recorded as interest income at the contractual rates, increases the loan
24
principal on the respective capitalization dates, and is generally due at maturity. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 and for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, no loans in the portfolio contained PIK provisions.
Interest income from investments in the “equity” class of collateralized loan obligation (“CLO”) funds, which are included in “structured finance obligations”, is recorded based upon an estimation of an effective yield to expected maturity utilizing assumed cash flows in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 325-40, Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financials Assets. We monitor the expected cash inflows from our CLO equity investments, including the expected residual payments and the effective yield is determined and updated at least quarterly. In estimating these cash flows, there are a number of assumptions that are subject to uncertainties, including the amount and timing of principal payments which are impacted by prepayments, repurchases, defaults, delinquencies and liquidations of or within the CLO funds. These uncertainties are difficult to predict and are subject to future events that could have impacted the Company’s estimates if the information was known at the time. As a result, actual results may differ significantly from these estimates.
Other Income
Other income may include income such as consent, waiver, amendment, and syndication fees associated with the Company’s investment activities as well as any fees for managerial assistance services rendered by the Company to portfolio companies. Such fees are recognized as income when earned or the services are rendered. The Company may receive fees for guaranteeing the outstanding debt of a portfolio company. Such fees will be amortized into other income over the life of the guarantee. The unamortized amount, if any, is included in other assets in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, the Company earned $1,909 and $4,578, respectively, in other income. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, the Company earned $196 and $669, respectively, in other income.
Non-Accrual Income
Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when principal or interest payments are past due 30 days or more or when there is reasonable doubt that principal or interest will be collected in full. Accrued and unpaid interest is generally reversed when a loan is placed on non-accrual status. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans may be recognized as income or applied to principal depending upon management’s judgment regarding collectability. Non-accrual loans are restored to accrual status when past due principal and interest are paid current and, in management’s judgment, are likely to remain current. Management may not place a loan on non-accrual status if the loan has sufficient collateral value and is in the process of collection. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 and for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, no loans in the portfolio were on non-accrual status.
Revolving Credit Facility, Facility and 2015-1 Notes Related Costs, Expenses and Deferred Financing Costs (See Note 6, Borrowings, and Note 7, 2015-1 Notes)
Interest expense and unused commitment fees on the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility are recorded on an accrual basis. Unused commitment fees are included in credit facility fees in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The Revolving Credit Facility and Facility are recorded at carrying value, which approximates fair value.
Deferred financing costs include capitalized expenses related to the closing of the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility. Amortization of deferred financing costs for each credit facility is computed on the straight-line basis over the respective term of each credit facility, except for a portion that was accelerated in connection with the amendment of the Revolving Credit Facility as described in Note 6. The amortization of such costs is included in credit facility fees in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.
25
Deferred financing costs also include capitalized expenses including structuring and arrangement fees related to the offering of the 2015-1 Notes. These costs are presented as a direct deduction to the carrying amount of the 2015-1 Notes. Amortization of deferred financing costs for the 2015-1 Notes is computed on the effective yield method over the term of the 2015-1 Notes. The amortization of such costs is included in interest expense in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The 2015-1 Notes are recorded at carrying value, which approximates fair value.
Organization and Offering Costs
The Company agreed to reimburse the Investment Adviser for initial organization and offering costs incurred on behalf of GMS Finance up to $1,500. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $1,500 of organization and offering costs had been incurred by GMS Finance and $57 of excess organization and offering costs had been incurred by the Investment Adviser since inception. The $1,500 of incurred organization and offering costs are allocated to all stockholders based on their respective capital commitment and are re-allocated amongst all stockholders at the time of each capital drawdown subsequent to the Initial Closing. The Company’s organization costs incurred are expensed and the offering costs are charged against equity when incurred.
Income Taxes
For federal income tax purposes, GMS Finance has elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code, and intends to make the required distributions to its stockholders as specified therein. In order to qualify as a RIC, GMS Finance must meet certain minimum distribution, source-of-income and asset diversification requirements. If such requirements are met, then GMS Finance is generally required to pay income taxes only on the portion of its taxable income and gains it does not distribute.
The minimum distribution requirements applicable to RICs require GMS Finance to distribute to its stockholders at least 90% of its investment company taxable income (“ICTI”), as defined by the Code, each year. Depending on the level of ICTI earned in a tax year, GMS Finance may choose to carry forward ICTI in excess of current year distributions into the next tax year. Any such carryover ICTI must be distributed before the end of that next tax year through a dividend declared prior to filing the final tax return related to the year which generated such ICTI.
In addition, based on the excise distribution requirements, GMS Finance is subject to a 4% nondeductible federal excise tax on undistributed income unless GMS Finance distributes in a timely manner an amount at least equal to the sum of (1) 98% of its ordinary income for each calendar year, (2) 98.2% of capital gain net income (both long-term and short-term) for the one-year period ending October 31 in that calendar year and (3) any income realized, but not distributed, in the preceding year. For this purpose, however, any ordinary income or capital gain net income retained by GMS Finance that is subject to corporate income tax is considered to have been distributed. GMS Finance intends to make sufficient distributions each taxable year to satisfy the excise distribution requirements.
The Company evaluates tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing its consolidated financial statements to determine whether the tax positions are “more-likely than not” to be sustained by the applicable tax authority. All penalties and interest associated with income taxes, if any, are included in income tax expense.
The Borrower Sub and the 2015-1 Issuer are disregarded entities for tax purposes and are consolidated with the tax return of GMS Finance.
Capital Calls and Dividends and Distributions to Common Stockholders
The Company records the shares issued in connection with capital calls as of the effective date of the capital call. To the extent that the Company has taxable income available, the Company intends to make quarterly
26
distributions to its common stockholders. Dividends and distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the record date. The amount to be distributed is determined by the Board of Directors each quarter and is generally based upon the taxable earnings estimated by management and available cash. Net realized capital gains, if any, are generally distributed at least annually, although the Company may decide to retain such capital gains for investment.
The Company has adopted a dividend reinvestment plan that provides for reinvestment of any distributions on behalf of its stockholders, for those who have elected to participate in the plan. As a result of adopting such a plan, if the Board of Directors authorizes, and GMS Finance declares, a cash dividend or distribution, the stockholders who have elected to participate in the dividend reinvestment plan would have their cash dividends or distributions automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Company’s common stock, rather than receiving cash. Prior to a Qualified IPO, the Company intends to use primarily newly issued shares of its common stock to implement the plan issued at the net asset value per share most recently determined by the Board of Directors. After a Qualified IPO, the Company intends to use primarily newly issued shares to implement the plan so long as the market value per share is equal to or greater than the net asset value per share as of the close of business on the relevant payment date for such dividend or distribution. If the market value per share is less than the net asset value per share as of the close of business on the relevant payment date, the plan administrator would purchase the common stock on behalf of participants in the open market, unless the Company instructs the plan administrator otherwise.
Functional Currency
The functional currency of the Company is the U.S. Dollar and all transactions were in U.S. Dollars.
Recent Accounting Standards Updates
On April 7, 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2015-3, Interest—Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30) Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs (“ASU 2015-3”). ASU 2015-3 requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts and premiums. This guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2016 and the ASU requires the guidance to be applied on a retrospective basis. The Company adopted this guidance on January 1, 2016 and reclassified $2,356 of debt issuance costs from deferred financing costs to 2015-1 Notes payable in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of December 31, 2015.
In May 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2015-7, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820)—Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent) (“ASU 2015-7”). ASU 2015-7 provides amended guidance on the disclosures for investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value per share (or its equivalent). The amendments remove the requirement to categorize within the fair value hierarchy all investments for which fair value is measured using the net asset value per share practical expedient. The amendments also remove the requirement to make certain disclosures for all investments that are eligible to be measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient. Rather, those disclosures are limited to investments for which the entity has elected to measure the fair value using that practical expedient. The guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company adopted the new accounting guidance on January 1, 2016 and presented the fair value disclosures accordingly.
In August 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2015-15, Interest—Imputation of Interest (Sub-topic 835-30): Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements (“ASU 2015-15”). ASU 2015-03 does not address presentation or subsequent measurement of debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements. In accordance with ASU 2015-15, an entity may defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortize the deferred debt issuance
27
costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. This guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company adopted the new accounting guidance and it did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
3. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The Company applies fair value accounting in accordance with the terms of Financial Accounting Standards Board ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). ASC 820 defines fair value as the amount that would be exchanged to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transfer between market participants at the measurement date. The Company values securities/instruments traded in active markets on the measurement date by multiplying the closing price of such traded securities/instruments by the quantity of shares or amount of the instrument held. The Company may also obtain quotes with respect to certain of its investments, such as its securities/instruments traded in active markets and its liquid securities/instruments that are not traded in active markets, from pricing services, brokers, or counterparties (i.e., “consensus pricing”). When doing so, the Company determines whether the quote obtained is sufficient according to US GAAP to determine the fair value of the security. The Company may use the quote obtained or alternative pricing sources may be utilized including valuation techniques typically utilized for illiquid securities/instruments.
Securities/instruments that are illiquid or for which the pricing source does not provide a valuation or methodology or provides a valuation or methodology that, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser or GMS Finance’s Board of Directors, does not represent fair value shall each be valued as of the measurement date using all techniques appropriate under the circumstances and for which sufficient data is available. These valuation techniques may vary by investment and include comparable public market valuations, comparable precedent transaction valuations and/or discounted cash flow analyses. The process generally used to determine the applicable value is as follows: (i) the value of each portfolio company or investment is initially reviewed by the investment professionals responsible for such portfolio company or investment and, for non-traded investments, a standardized template designed to approximate fair market value based on observable market inputs, updated credit statistics and unobservable inputs is used to determine a preliminary value, which is also reviewed alongside consensus pricing, where available; (ii) preliminary valuation conclusions are documented and reviewed by a valuation committee comprised of members of senior management; (iii) the Board of Directors engages a third-party valuation firm to provide positive assurance on portions of the Middle Market Senior Loans and equity investments portfolio each quarter (such that each non-traded investment other than Credit Fund and the 2015-1 Issuer is reviewed by a third-party valuation firm at least once on a rolling twelve month basis) including a review of management’s preliminary valuation and conclusion on fair value; (iv) the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) reviews the assessments of the Investment Adviser and the third-party valuation firm and provides the Board of Directors with any recommendations with respect to changes to the fair value of each investment in the portfolio; and (v) the Board of Directors discusses the valuation recommendations of the Audit Committee and determines the fair value of each investment in the portfolio in good faith based on the input of the Investment Adviser and, where applicable, the third-party valuation firm.
All factors that might materially impact the value of an investment are considered, including, but not limited to the assessment of the following factors, as relevant:
28
Investment performance data utilized are the most recently available financial statements and compliance certificates received from the portfolio companies as of the measurement date which in many cases may reflect a lag in information.
Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Company’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, these estimated values may differ significantly from the values that would have been reported had a ready market for the investments existed, and it is reasonably possible that the difference could be material.
In addition, changes in the market environment and other events that may occur over the life of the investments may cause the realized gains or losses on investments to be different from the net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation currently reflected in the consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
US GAAP establishes a hierarchical disclosure framework which ranks the level of observability of market price inputs used in measuring investments at fair value. The observability of inputs is impacted by a number of factors, including the type of investment and the characteristics specific to the investment and state of the marketplace, including the existence and transparency of transactions between market participants. Investments with readily available quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from quoted prices in active markets generally have a higher degree of market price observability and a lesser degree of judgment applied in determining fair value.
Investments measured and reported at fair value are classified and disclosed based on the observability of inputs used in determination of fair values, as follows:
In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the overall fair value measurement. The Investment Adviser’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment.
29
Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfers occur. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, there were no transfers between levels.
The following tables summarize the Company’s investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis by the above fair value hierarchy levels as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Assets
Mezzanine Loan
Subtotal
Investments measured at net asset value(1)
30
The changes in the Company’s investments at fair value for which the Company has used Level III inputs to determine fair value and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) included in earnings for Level III investments still held are as follows:
Balance, beginning of period
Purchases
Sales
Paydowns
Accretion of discount
Net realized gains (losses)
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
Balance, end of period
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) included in earnings related to investments still held as of September 30, 2016 included in net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments non-controlled/non-affiliated on the Consolidated Statements of Operations
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) included in earnings related to investments still held as of September 30, 2015 included in net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments non-controlled/non-affiliated on the Consolidated Statements of Operations
31
32
The Company generally uses the following framework when determining the fair value of investments that are categorized as Level III:
Investments in debt securities are initially evaluated to determine whether the enterprise value of the portfolio company is greater than the applicable debt. The enterprise value of the portfolio company is estimated using a market approach and an income approach. The market approach utilizes market value (EBITDA) multiples of publicly traded comparable companies and available precedent sales transactions of comparable companies. The Company carefully considers numerous factors when selecting the appropriate companies whose multiples are used to value its portfolio companies. These factors include, but are not limited to, the type of organization, similarity to the business being valued, relevant risk factors, as well as size, profitability and growth expectations. The income approach typically uses a discounted cash flow analysis of the portfolio company.
Investments in debt securities that do not have sufficient coverage through the enterprise value analysis are valued based on an expected probability of default and discount recovery analysis.
Investments in debt securities with sufficient coverage through the enterprise value analysis are generally valued using a discounted cash flow analysis of the underlying security. Projected cash flows in the discounted cash flow typically represent the relevant security’s contractual interest, fees and principal payments plus the assumption of full principal recovery at the security’s expected maturity date. The discount rate to be used is determined using an average of two market-based methodologies. Investments in debt securities may also be valued using consensus pricing.
Investments in structured finance obligations are generally valued using a discounted cash flow and/or consensus pricing.
Investments in equities are generally valued using a market approach and/or an income approach. The market approach utilizes EBITDA multiples of publicly traded comparable companies and available precedent sales transactions of comparable companies. The income approach typically uses a discounted cash flow analysis of the portfolio company.
Investments in the subordinated loan and member’s interest of the investment fund are valued using the net asset value of the Company’s ownership interest in the investment fund and investments in the mezzanine loan of the investment fund are valued using the expected repayment rate.
33
The following tables summarize the quantitative information related to the significant unobservable inputs for Level III instruments which are carried at fair value as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Valuation Techniques
Significant
UnobservableInputs
Investments in First Lien Debt
Total First Lien Debt
Investments in Second Lien Debt
Total Second Lien Debt
Investments in Structured Finance Obligations
Total Structured Finance Obligations
Investments in Equity
Total Equity Investments
Investments in Investment Fund—Mezzanine Loan
Total Level III Investments
34
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s investments in first and second lien debt securities are discount rates and indicative quotes. Significant increases in discount rates would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement. Significant decreases in indicative quotes in isolation may result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s investments in structured finance obligations are discount rates, default rates, prepayment rates, recovery rates and indicative quotes. Significant increases in discount rates, default rates or prepayment rates in isolation would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement, while a significant increase in recovery rates in isolation would result in a significantly higher fair value. Significant decreases in indicative quotes in isolation may result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s investments in equities are discount rates and comparable EBITDA multiples. Significant increases in discount rates would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement. Significant decreases in comparable EBITDA multiples would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.
Financial instruments disclosed but not carried at fair value
The following table presents the carrying value and fair value of the Company’s secured borrowings disclosed but not carried at fair value as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Secured borrowings
35
The carrying values of the secured borrowings approximate their respective fair values and are categorized as Level III within the hierarchy. Secured borrowings are valued generally using discounted cash flow analysis. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s secured borrowings are discount rates. Significant increases in discount rates would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.
The following table represents the carrying values (before debt issuance costs) and fair values of the Company’s 2015-1 Notes disclosed but not carried at fair value as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Aaa/AAA Class A-1A Notes
Aaa/AAA Class A-1B Notes
Aaa/AAA Class A-1C Notes
Aa2 Class A-2 Notes
The fair value determination of the Company’s 2015-1 Notes was based on the market quotation(s) received from broker/dealer(s). These fair value measurements were based on significant inputs not observable and thus represent Level III measurements as defined in the accounting guidance for fair value measurement.
The carrying value of other financial assets and liabilities approximates their fair value based on the short term nature of these items.
4. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Investment Advisory Agreement
On April 3, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the directors who are not “interested persons” as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act (the “Independent Directors”), approved an investment advisory agreement (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) between the Company and the Investment Adviser in accordance with, and on the basis of an evaluation satisfactory to such directors as required by, Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act. The initial term of the Investment Advisory Agreement is two years from April 3, 2013 and, unless terminated earlier, the Investment Advisory Agreement will renew automatically for successive annual periods, provided that such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the vote of the Board of Directors and by the vote of a majority of the Independent Directors. On March 10, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, approved the continuance of the Advisory Agreement for a one year period. The Investment Advisory Agreement will automatically terminate in the event of an assignment and may be terminated by either party without penalty upon at least 60 days’ written notice to the other party. Subject to the overall supervision of the Board of Directors, the Investment Adviser provides investment advisory services to the Company. For providing these services, the Investment Adviser receives fees from the Company consisting of two components—a base management fee and an incentive fee.
Prior to a Qualified IPO, the base management fee is calculated and payable quarterly in arrears at an annual rate of 1.50% of the average daily gross assets of the Company for the period adjusted for share issuances or repurchases, excluding any cash and cash equivalents and including assets acquired with leverage from use of the Revolving Credit Facility, Facility and 2015-1 Notes (see Note 6, Borrowings, and Note 7, 2015-1 Notes). For purposes of this calculation, cash and cash equivalents include any temporary investments in cash-equivalents, U.S. government securities and other high quality investment grade debt investments that mature in 12 months or less from the date of investment. Base management fees for any partial quarter are prorated. The Investment
36
Adviser contractually waived one-third (0.50%) of the base management fee prior to a Qualified IPO (with no right of recapture). The fee waiver will terminate if and when a Qualified IPO has been consummated.
The incentive fee has two parts. The first part is calculated and payable quarterly in arrears based on the pre-incentive fee net investment income for the immediately preceding calendar quarter. The second part is determined and payable in arrears based on capital gains as of the end of each calendar year.
Pre-incentive fee net investment income means interest income, dividend income and any other income (including any other fees (other than fees for providing managerial assistance), such as commitment, origination, structuring, diligence and consulting fees or other fees that the Company receives from portfolio companies) accrued during the calendar quarter, minus the operating expenses accrued for the quarter (including the base management fee, expenses payable under the administration agreement, and any interest expense or fees on any credit facilities or outstanding debt and dividends paid on any issued and outstanding preferred stock, but excluding the incentive fee). Pre-incentive fee net investment income does not include, in the case of investments with a deferred interest feature (such as original issue discount, debt instruments with pay-in-kind interest
and zero coupon securities), accrued income that the Company has not yet received in cash. Pre-incentive fee net investment income does not include any realized capital gains, realized capital losses or unrealized capital appreciation or depreciation.
Prior to any Qualified IPO of the Company’s common stock, pre-incentive fee net investment income, expressed as a rate of return on the average daily Hurdle Calculation Value (as defined below) throughout the immediately preceding calendar quarter, is compared to a “hurdle rate” of 1.50% per quarter (6% annualized). “Hurdle Calculation Value” means, on any given day, the sum of (x) the value of net assets as of the end of the calendar quarter immediately preceding such day plus (y) the aggregate amount of capital drawn from investors (or reinvested in the Company pursuant to a dividend reinvestment plan) from the beginning of the current quarter to such day minus (z) the aggregate amount of distributions (including share repurchases) made by the Company from the beginning of the current quarter to such day but only to the extent such distributions were not declared and accounted for on the books and records in a previous quarter.
GMS Finance pays its Investment Adviser an incentive fee with respect to its pre-incentive fee net investment income in each calendar quarter as follows:
The second part of the incentive fee is determined and payable in arrears as of the end of each calendar year (or upon termination of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as of the termination date), and equals 20% of realized capital gains, if any, on a cumulative basis from inception through the date of determination, computed net of all realized capital losses on a cumulative basis and unrealized capital depreciation, less the aggregate amount of any previously paid capital gain incentive fees, provided that, the incentive fee determined at the end
37
of the first calendar year of operations may be calculated for a period of shorter than twelve calendar months to take into account any realized capital gains computed net of all realized capital losses on a cumulative basis and unrealized capital depreciation.
The Company will defer payment of any incentive fee otherwise earned by the Investment Adviser if, during the most recent four full calendar quarter periods (or, if less, the number of full calendar quarters completed since the initial drawdown of capital from the stockholders, “Initial Drawdown”) ending on or prior to the date such payment is to be made, the sum of (a) the aggregate distributions to stockholders and (b) the change in net assets (defined as gross assets less indebtedness and before taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period) is less than 6.0% of net assets (defined as gross assets less indebtedness) at the beginning of such period, provided, that such percentage will be appropriately prorated during the four full calendar quarters immediately following the Initial Drawdown. These calculations are adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases. Any deferred incentive fees are carried over for payment in subsequent calculation periods. The Investment Adviser may earn an incentive fee under the Investment Advisory Agreement on the Company’s repurchase of debt issued by the Company at a gain.
Prior to a Qualified IPO, from time to time, CGMSIM intends to pay certain individuals providing services to CGMSIM, including individuals who serve as our executive officer and/or director and individuals who are members of the CGMSIM team managing our investments (the “CGMSIM Investment Team”), a portion of each installment of the gross incentive fees that CGMSIM receives from us in consideration of their services on behalf of CGMSIM, with approximately 25% of the net after-tax amount paid to such members being paid in the form of newly issued shares of common stock purchased from us. In addition, following the completion of a Qualified IPO, from time to time, CGMSIM intends to purchase shares of our common stock in the open market at a purchase price, in the aggregate, equal to approximately 25% of each installment of the net after- tax incentive fees that CGMSIM receives from us, subject to market conditions. CGMSIM may then distribute those shares to individuals eligible for such payment in consideration of their services on behalf of CGMSIM.
For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, base management fees were $3,132 and $8,789, respectively (net of waiver of $1,567 and $4,395, respectively), incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income were $3,962 and $10,318, respectively, and there were no incentive fees related to realized capital gains. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, base management fees were $2,452 and $6,321, respectively (net of waiver of $1,227 and $3,161, respectively), incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income were $2,584 and $6,190, respectively, and there were no incentive fees related to realized capital gains. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, there were no accrued capital gains incentive fees based upon the cumulative net realized and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) as of September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The accrual for any capital gains incentive fee under US GAAP in a given period may result in an additional expense if such cumulative amount is greater than in the prior period or a reduction of previously recorded expense if such cumulative amount is less than in the prior period. If such cumulative amount is negative, then there is no accrual.
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $16,142 and $5,277, respectively, was included in base management and incentive fees payable in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
On April 3, 2013, the Investment Adviser entered into a personnel agreement with The Carlyle Group Employee Co., L.L.C. (“Carlyle Employee Co.”), an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, pursuant to which Carlyle Employee Co. provides the Investment Adviser with access to investment professionals.
Administration Agreement
On April 3, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved an administration agreement (the “Administration Agreement”) between the Company and the Administrator. Pursuant to the Administration
38
Agreement, the Administrator provides services and receives reimbursements equal to an amount that reimburses the Administrator for its costs and expenses and the Company’s allocable portion of overhead incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under the Administration Agreement, including the Company’s allocable portion of the compensation paid to or compensatory distributions received by the Company’s officers (including the Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Financial Officer) and respective staff who provide services to the Company, operations staff who provide services to the Company, and any internal audit staff, to the extent internal audit performs a role in the Company’s Sarbanes-Oxley Act internal control assessment. Reimbursement under the Administration Agreement occurs quarterly in arrears.
The initial term of the Administration Agreement is two years from April 3, 2013 and, unless terminated earlier, the Administration Agreement will renew automatically for successive annual periods, provided that such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of the Board of Directors or by a majority vote of the outstanding voting securities of the Company and (ii) the vote of a majority of the Company’s Independent Directors. On March 10, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, approved the continuance of the Administration Agreement for a one year period. The Administration Agreement may not be assigned by a party without the consent of the other party and may be terminated by either party without penalty upon at least 60 days’ written notice to the other party.
For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, GMS Finance incurred $180 and $526, respectively, and for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, GMS Finance incurred $152 and $452, respectively, in fees under the Administrative Agreement, which were included in administrative service fees in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $127 and $97, respectively, was unpaid and included in administrative service fees payable in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
Sub-Administration Agreements
On April 3, 2013, the Administrator entered into sub-administration agreements with Carlyle Employee Co. and CELF Advisors LLP. Pursuant to the agreements, Carlyle Employee Co. and CELF Advisors LLP provide the Administrator with access to personnel.
On April 3, 2013, the Administrator entered into a sub-administration agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company (as amended, the “Sub-Administration Agreement”). On March 11, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, approved an amendment to the Sub-Administration Agreement. The initial term of the Sub-Administration Agreement ends on April 1, 2017 and, unless terminated earlier, the Sub-Administration Agreement will renew automatically for successive annual periods, provided that such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of the Board of Directors or by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company and (ii) the vote of a majority of the Company’s Independent Directors. The Sub-Administration Agreement may be terminated upon at least 60 days’ written notice and without penalty by the vote of a majority of the outstanding securities of the Company, or by the vote of the Board of Directors or by either party to the Sub-Administration Agreement.
For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, fees incurred in connection with the Sub-Administration Agreement, which amounted to $154 and $442, respectively, were included in other general and administrative in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, fees incurred in connection with the Sub-Administration Agreement, which amounted to $134 and $353, respectively, were included in other general and administrative in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $153 and $138, respectively, was unpaid and included in other accrued expenses and liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
39
Placement Fees
On April 3, 2013, the Company entered into a placement fee arrangement with TCG Securities, L.L.C. (“TCG”), a licensed broker-dealer and an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, which may require stockholders to pay a placement fee to TCG for TCG’s services.
For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, TCG earned placement fees of $2 and $8, respectively, from GMS Finance stockholders in connection with the issuance or sale of the Company’s common stock. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, TCG earned placement fees of $2 and $4, respectively, from GMS Finance stockholders in connection with the issuance or sale of the Company’s common stock.
Board of Directors
GMS Finance’s Board of Directors currently consists of five members, three of whom are Independent Directors. The Board of Directors has established an Audit Committee consisting of its Independent Directors and a Pricing Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Pricing Committee”), and may establish additional committees in the future. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, GMS Finance incurred $146 and $410, respectively and for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, GMS Finance incurred $109 and $316 respectively, in fees and expenses associated with its Independent Directors, the Audit Committee and the Pricing Committee. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $0 was unpaid and included in other accrued expenses and liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, current directors had committed $607 in capital commitments to the Company.
Transactions
On May 13, 2016, the Company sold an investment to a wholly-owned subsidiary of Credit Fund for proceeds of $20,038. The Company had no realized gain or loss on this trade. See Note 5, Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC, for further information about Credit Fund.
5. MIDDLE MARKET CREDIT FUND, LLC
Overview
On February 29, 2016, the Company and Credit Partners entered into the Limited Liability Company Agreement to co-manage Credit Fund, an unconsolidated Delaware limited liability company. Credit Fund primarily invests in first lien loans of middle-market companies. Credit Fund is managed by a six-member board of managers, on which the Company and Credit Partners each have equal representation. The Company and Credit Partners each have 50% economic ownership of Credit Fund and have commitments to fund, from time to time, capital of up to $400,000 each. Funding of such commitments generally requires the approval of the board of Credit Fund, including the board members appointed by the Company.
Together with Credit Partners, the Company co-invests through Credit Fund. Portfolio and investment decisions with respect to Credit Fund must be unanimously approved by a quorum of Credit Fund’s investment committee consisting of an equal number of representatives of the Company and Credit Partners. Therefore, although the Company owns more than 25% of the voting securities of Credit Fund, the Company does not believe that it has control over Credit Fund (other than for purposes of the Investment Company Act).
Middle Market Credit Fund SPV, LLC (the “Credit Fund Sub”), a Delaware limited liability company, was formed on April 5, 2016. Credit Fund Sub primarily invests in first lien loans of middle-market companies. Credit Fund Sub is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Credit Fund and is consolidated in Credit Fund’s consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of its formation.
40
Selected Financial Data
Since inception of Credit Fund and through September 30, 2016, the Company and Credit Partners each made capital contributions of $1 in members’ equity and $24,000 in subordinated loans to Credit Fund. Additionally, Credit Fund borrowed $31,800 in mezzanine loans under a revolving credit facility with the Company (the “Credit Fund Facility”). As of September 30, 2016, Credit Fund had subordinated loans and members’ capital of $51,917 and mezzanine loans of $31,800. The Company’s ownership interest in such subordinated loans and members’ capital was $25,958 and in such mezzanine loans was $31,800.
As of September 30, 2016, Credit Fund held cash and cash equivalents totaling $4,076.
As of September 30, 2016, Credit Fund had total investments at fair value of $292,830, which was comprised of first lien senior secured loans and second lien senior secured loans to 20 portfolio companies. As of September 30, 2016 and for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, no loans in Credit Fund’s portfolio were on non-accrual status or contained PIK provisions. The portfolio companies in Credit Fund are U.S. middle market companies in industries similar to those in which the Company may invest directly. Additionally, as of September 30, 2016, Credit Fund had commitments to fund various undrawn revolvers and delayed draw investments to its portfolio companies totaling $35,059.
Below is a summary of Credit Fund’s portfolio, followed by a listing of the loans in Credit Fund’s portfolio as of September 30, 2016:
Senior secured loans (1)
Weighted average yields of senior secured loans based on amortized cost (2)
Number of portfolio companies in Credit Fund
41
Consolidated Schedule of Investments as of September 30, 2016 (unaudited)
Investments(1)
First Lien Debt (99.32% of fair value)
Datapipe, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
Diversitech Corporation (2) (3) (4) (9)
DYK Prime Acquisition LLC (2) (3) (4)
EIP Merger Sub, LLC(Evolve IP) (2) (3) (4) (7) (16)
Generation Brands Holdings, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
Jensen Hughes, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (8)
Kestra Financial, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
MSHC, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (10)
Netsmart Technologies, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
PAI Holdco, Inc.(Parts Authority) (2) (3) (4)
Pasternack Enterprises, Inc.(Infinite RF) (2) (3) (4)
QW Holding Corporation (Quala) (2) (3) (4) (12) (15)
RelaDyne Inc. (2) (3) (4) (11)
T2 Systems Canada, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
T2 Systems, Inc. (2) (3) (4) (13)
The Original Cakerie, Ltd.(Canada) (2) (3) (4) (14)
The Original Cakerie, Co.(Canada) (2) (3) (4)
TK USA Enterprises, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
U.S. Acute Care Solutions, LLC (2) (3) (4)
Vantage Specialty Chemicals,Inc. (2) (3) (4)
WIRB—Copernicus Group, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
Zest Holdings, LLC (2) (3) (4)
Second Lien Debt (0.68% of fair value)
Total Investments
42
43
Below is certain summarized consolidated financial information for Credit Fund as of September 30, 2016 and for the three and nine months ended September 2016. Credit Fund commenced operations in May 2016.
Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet Information
Investments, at fair value (amortized cost of $289,195)
Cash and other assets
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS’ EQUITY
Mezzanine loans
Other liabilities
Subordinated loans and members’ equity
Liabilities and members’ equity
Selected Consolidated Statement of Operations Information:
Expenses
Interest and credit facility expenses
Other expenses
Net increase (decrease) resulting from operations
Debt
Credit Fund Facility
Credit Fund closed on June 24, 2016 on a revolving credit facility, the Credit Fund Facility, from which Credit Fund may from time to time request mezzanine loans from the Company. The maximum principal amount of the Credit Fund Facility is $100,000.
During the nine month period ended September 30, 2016, there were mezzanine loan borrowings of $54,200 and repayments of $22,400 under the Credit Fund Facility. As of September 30, 2016, there were $31,800 in mezzanine loans outstanding.
Credit Fund Sub Facility
Credit Fund Sub closed on June 24, 2016 on the Credit Fund Sub Facility. The Credit Fund Sub Facility provides for secured borrowings during the applicable revolving period up to an amount equal to $440,000, with
44
an accordion feature that can increase the aggregate maximum credit commitment up to an amount not to exceed $1,400,000. The facility is secured by a first lien security interest in substantially all of the portfolio investments held by Credit Fund Sub and the Company’s and Credit Partners’ unfunded capital commitments.
During the nine month period ended September 30, 2016, there were secured borrowings of $206,075 under the Credit Fund Sub Facility. As of September 30, 2016, there was $206,075 in secured borrowings outstanding.
6. BORROWINGS
In accordance with the Investment Company Act, the Company is only allowed to borrow amounts such that its asset coverage, as defined in the Investment Company Act, is at least 200% after such borrowing. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, asset coverage was 209.46%, and 212.70%, respectively. During the nine month period ended September 30, 2016, there were secured borrowings of $411,435 under the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility and repayments of $250,732 under the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility. During the nine month period ended September 30, 2015, there were secured borrowings of $320,200 under the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility and repayments of $449,183 under the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there was $395,016 and $234,313, respectively, in secured borrowings outstanding.
Revolving Credit Facility
The Borrower Sub closed on May 24, 2013 on the Revolving Credit Facility, which was subsequently amended on June 30, 2014, June 19, 2015 and June 9, 2016. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for secured borrowings during the applicable revolving period up to an amount equal to the lesser of $400,000 (the borrowing base as calculated pursuant to the terms of the Revolving Credit Facility) and the amount of net cash proceeds and unpledged capital commitments the Company has received, with an accordion feature that can, subject to certain conditions, increase the aggregate maximum credit commitment up to an amount not to exceed $750,000, subject to restrictions imposed on borrowings under the Investment Company Act and certain restrictions and conditions set forth in the Revolving Credit Facility, including adequate collateral to support such borrowings. The Revolving Credit Facility has a revolving period through May 23, 2019 and a maturity date of May 22, 2021. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest initially at the applicable commercial paper rate (if the lender is a conduit lender) or LIBOR (or, if applicable, a rate based on the prime rate or federal funds rate) plus 2.00% per year through May 23, 2018, with a pre-determined future interest rate increase of 0.50% during the final year of the revolving period and pre-determined future interest rate increases of 0.875%-1.75% over the two years following the end of the revolving period. The Borrower Sub is also required to pay an undrawn commitment fee of between 0.25% and 0.75% per year depending on the usage of the Revolving Credit Facility. Payments under the Revolving Credit Facility are made quarterly. The lenders have a first lien security interest on substantially all of the assets of the Borrower Sub.
As part of the Revolving Credit Facility, the Borrower Sub is subject to limitations as to how borrowed funds may be used and the types of loans that are eligible to be acquired by the Borrower Sub including, but not limited to, restrictions on sector and geographic concentrations, loan size, payment frequency, tenor and minimum investment ratings (or estimated ratings). In addition, borrowed funds are intended to be used primarily to purchase first lien loan assets, and the Borrower Sub is limited in its ability to purchase certain other assets (including, but not limited to, second lien loans, covenant-lite loans, revolving and delayed draw loans and discount loans) and other assets are not permitted to be purchased (including, but not limited to paid-in-kind loans and structured finance obligations). The Revolving Credit Facility has certain requirements relating to interest coverage, collateral quality and portfolio performance, including limitations on delinquencies and charge offs, certain violations of which could result in the immediate acceleration of the amounts due under the Revolving Credit Facility. The Revolving Credit Facility is also subject to a borrowing base that applies different advance rates to assets held by the Borrower Sub based generally on the fair market value of such assets. Under certain circumstances as set forth in the Revolving Credit Facility, the Company could be obliged to repurchase loans from the Borrower Sub.
45
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Borrower Sub was in compliance with all covenants and other requirements of the Revolving Credit Facility.
Facility
The Company closed on March 21, 2014 on the Facility, which was subsequently amended on January 8, 2015 and May 25, 2016 (the “Second Facility Amendment”). The maximum principal amount of the Facility is $220,000, subject to availability under the Facility, which is based on certain advance rates multiplied by the value of the Company’s portfolio investments (subject to certain concentration limitations) net of certain other indebtedness that the Company may incur in accordance with the terms of the Facility. Proceeds of the Facility may be used for general corporate purposes, including the funding of portfolio investments. Maximum capacity under the Facility may be increased to $225,000 through the exercise by the Company of an uncommitted accordion feature through which existing and new lenders may, at their option, agree to provide additional financing. The Facility includes a $20,000 limit for swingline loans and a $5,000 limit for letters of credit. The Company may borrow amounts in U.S. dollars or certain other permitted currencies. Amounts drawn under the Facility, including amounts drawn in respect of letters of credit, bear interest at either LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.25%, or an “alternative base rate” (which is the highest of a prime rate, the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50%, or one month LIBOR plus 1.00%) plus an applicable spread of 1.25%. The Company may elect either the LIBOR or the “alternative base rate” at the time of drawdown, and loans may be converted from one rate to another at any time, subject to certain conditions. The Company also pays a fee of 0.375% on undrawn amounts under the Facility and, in respect of each undrawn letter of credit, a fee and interest rate equal to the then-applicable margin under the Facility while the letter of credit is outstanding. The availability period under the Facility will terminate on March 21, 2020 and the Facility will mature on March 21, 2021. During the period from March 21, 2020 to March 21, 2021, the Company will be obligated to make mandatory prepayments under the Facility out of the proceeds of certain asset sales, other recovery events and equity and debt issuances.
Subject to certain exceptions, the Facility is secured by a first lien security interest in substantially all of the portfolio investments held by the Company and the Company’s unfunded investor equity capital commitments (provided that the amount of unfunded capital commitments ultimately available to the lenders is limited to $100,000). The pledge of unfunded investor equity capital commitments was subject to release once $100,000 of incremental capital had been called and received by the Company subsequent to January 8, 2015. The pledge of unfunded investor equity capital commitments had been released as of September 30, 2016. The Facility includes customary covenants, including certain financial covenants related to asset coverage, shareholders’ equity and liquidity, certain limitations on the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens, and other maintenance covenants, as well as usual and customary events of default for senior secured revolving credit facilities of this nature.
Related to the Second Facility Amendment, $380 of deferred financing costs (representing the prorated financing costs related to a departing lender) were immediately expensed on May 25, 2016 in lieu of continuing to amortize over the term of the Facility.
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and other requirements of the Facility.
46
Summary of Facilities
The facilities of the Company and the Borrower Sub consisted of the following as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $1,365 and $966, respectively, of interest expense, $250 and $141, respectively, of unused commitment fees and $22 and $22, respectively, of other fees were included in interest and credit facility fees payable. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, the weighted average interest rate was 2.75% and 2.67%, respectively, and average principal debt outstanding was $292,084 and $277,575, respectively. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, the weighted average interest rate was 2.28% and 2.22%, respectively, and average principal debt outstanding was $167,952 and $285,547, respectively. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the interest rate was 2.85% and 2.37%, respectively, based on floating LIBOR rates.
For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, the components of interest expense and credit facility fees on the facilities were as follows:
September 30,
2016
2015
Interest expense
Facility unused commitment fee
Other fees
Total interest expense and credit facility fees
Cash paid for interest expense
7. 2015-1 Notes
On June 26, 2015, the Company completed the 2015-1 Debt Securitization. The 2015-1 Notes were issued by the 2015-1 Issuer, a wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of the Company, and are secured by a diversified portfolio of the 2015-1 Issuer consisting primarily of first and second lien senior secured loans. The 2015-1 Debt Securitization was executed through a private placement of the 2015-1 Notes, consisting of $160 million of Aaa/AAA Class A-1A Notes which bear interest at the three-month London Interbank Offered Rate
47
(“LIBOR”) plus 1.85%; $40 million of Aaa/AAA Class A-1B Notes which bear interest at the three-month LIBOR plus 1.75% for the first 24 months and the three-month LIBOR plus 2.05% thereafter; $27 million of Aaa/AAA Class A-1C Notes which bear interest at 3.75%; and $46 million of Aa2 Class A-2 Notes which bear interest at the three month LIBOR plus 2.70%. The 2015-1 Notes were issued at par and are scheduled to mature on July 15, 2027. The Company received 100% of the preferred interests (the “Preferred Interests”) issued by the 2015-1 Issuer on the closing date of the 2015-1 Debt Securitization in exchange for the Company’s contribution to the Issuer of the initial closing date loan portfolio. The Preferred Interests do not bear interest and had a nominal value of $125.9 million at closing. In connection with the contribution, the Company made customary representations, warranties and covenants to the 2015-1 Issuer in the purchase agreement. The Class A-1A, Class A-1B and Class A-1C and Class A-2 Notes are included in the September 30, 2016 consolidated financial statements. The Preferred Interests were eliminated in consolidation.
On the closing date of the 2015-1 Debt Securitization, the 2015-1 Issuer effected a one-time distribution to the Company of a substantial portion of the proceeds of the private placement of the 2015-1 Notes, net of expenses, which distribution was used to repay a portion of certain amounts outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility and the Facility. As part of the 2015-1 Debt Securitization, certain first and second lien senior secured loans were distributed by the Borrower Sub to the Company pursuant to a distribution and contribution agreement. The Company contributed the loans that comprised the initial closing date loan portfolio (including the loans distributed to the Company from the Borrower Sub) to the 2015-1 Issuer pursuant to a contribution agreement. Future loan transfers from the Company to the 2015-1 Issuer will be made pursuant to a sale agreement and are subject to the approval of the Company’s Board of Directors. Assets of the 2015-1 Issuer are not available to the creditors of the Borrower Sub or the Company. In connection with the issuance and sale of the 2015-1 Notes, the Company made customary representations, warranties and covenants in the purchase agreement.
During the reinvestment period, pursuant to the indenture governing the 2015-1 Notes, all principal collections received on the underlying collateral may be used by the 2015-1 Issuer to purchase new collateral under the direction of Investment Adviser in its capacity as collateral manager of the 2015-1 Issuer and in accordance with the Company’s investment strategy.
The Investment Adviser serves as collateral manager to the 2015-1 Issuer under a collateral management agreement (the “Collateral Management Agreement”). Pursuant to the Collateral Management Agreement, the 2015-1 Issuer pays management fees (comprised of base management fees, subordinated management fees and incentive management fees) (“Management Fees”) to the Investment Adviser for rendering collateral management services. As per the Collateral Management Agreement, for the period the Company retains all of the Preferred Interests, the Investment Adviser does not earn Management Fees for providing such collateral management services. The Company currently retains all of the Preferred Interests, thus the Investment Adviser did not earn any management fees from the 2015-1 Issuer for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016. Any such waived fees may not be recaptured by the Investment Adviser.
Pursuant to an undertaking by the Company in connection with the 2015-1 Debt Securitization, the Company has agreed to hold on an ongoing basis Preferred Interests with an aggregate dollar purchase price at least equal to 5% of the aggregate outstanding amount of all collateral obligations by the 2015-1 Issuer for so long as any securities of the 2015-1 Issuer remain outstanding. As of September 30, 2016, the Company was in compliance with its undertaking.
The 2015-1 Issuer pays ongoing administrative expenses to the trustee, independent accountants, legal counsel, rating agencies and independent managers in connection with developing and maintaining reports, and providing required services in connection with the administration of the 2015-1 Issuer.
As of September 30, 2016, there were 57 first lien and second lien senior secured loans with a total fair value of approximately $389,197 securing the 2015-1 Notes. The pool of loans in the securitization must meet certain requirements, including asset mix and concentration, term, agency rating, collateral coverage, minimum coupon, minimum spread and sector diversity requirements in the indenture governing the 2015-1 Notes.
48
For the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the effective annualized weighted average interest rate, which includes amortization of debt issuance costs on the 2015-1 Notes, was 2.84% based on floating LIBOR rates.
For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, the components of interest expense on the 2015-1 Notes were as follows:
8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
A summary of significant contractual payment obligations was as follows as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Payment Due by Period
Less than 1 Year
1-3 Years
3-5 Years
More than 5 Years
In the ordinary course of its business, the Company enters into contracts or agreements that contain indemnification and warranties. Future events could occur that lead to the execution of these provisions against the Company. The Company believes that the likelihood of such an event is remote; however, the maximum potential exposure is unknown. No accrual has been made in the consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 for any such exposure.
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had $1,210,870 and $1,174,340, respectively, in total capital commitments from stockholders, of which $445,642 and $559,214, respectively, was unfunded. As of September 30, 2016, current directors had committed $608 in capital commitments to the Company.
The Company had the following unfunded commitments to fund delayed draw and revolving senior secured loans as of the indicated dates:
Unfunded delayed draw commitments
Unfunded revolving term loan commitments
Total unfunded commitments
As of September 30, 2016, the Company had remaining commitments to fund, from time to time, capital to Credit Fund of up to $375,999. Funding of such commitments generally requires the approval of the board of Credit Fund, including the board members appointed by the Company. As of September 30, 2016, the Company had remaining commitments to fund, from time to time, mezzanine loans to Credit Fund of up to $68,200, of which $1,280 was available for borrowing based on the computation of collateral to support the borrowings.
49
9. NET ASSETS
The Company has the authority to issue 200,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.01 per share par value.
During the nine month period ended September 30, 2016, the Company issued 8,267,399 shares for $150,296 including reinvestment of dividends. The following table summarizes capital activity during the nine month period ended September 30, 2016:
Common Stock
Dividends declared
50
During the nine month period ended September 30, 2015, the Company issued 9,962,714 shares for $193,176. The following table summarizes capital activity during the nine month period ended September 30, 2015:
Subscribed but unissued shares
Subscriptions receivable
The following table summarizes total shares issued and proceeds received related to capital subscriptions for the Company’s common stock and reinvestment of dividends during the nine month period ended September 30, 2016:
January 22, 2016*
March 11, 2016
April 22, 2016*
May 6, 2016
June 24, 2016
July 22, 2016*
August 26, 2016
September 16, 2016
51
The following table summarizes total shares issued and proceeds received related to capital subscriptions for the Company’s common stock and reinvestment of dividends during the nine month period ended September 30, 2015:
January 16, 2015
January 26, 2015*
February 26, 2015
April 21, 2015*
May 1, 2015
May 22, 2015
June 25, 2015
July 22, 2015*
August 21, 2015
September 30, 2015
Subscribed but unissued shares are presented in equity with a deduction of subscriptions receivable until cash is received for a subscription. There were no subscribed but unissued shares as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
Subscription transactions during the nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were executed at an offering price at a premium to net asset value due to the requirement to use prior quarter net asset value as offering price unless it would result in the Company selling shares of its common stock at a price below the current net asset value and also in order to effect a reallocation of organizational costs to subsequent investors. Such subscription transactions increased net asset value by $0.02 per share and $0.09 per share, respectively, for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
The Company computes earnings per common share in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share. Basic earnings per common share were calculated by dividing net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations attributable to the Company by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period.
Basic and diluted earnings per common share were as follows:
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
Basic and diluted earnings per common share
52
The following table summarizes the Company’s dividends declared and payable since inception through September 30, 2016:
Date
Declared
March 13, 2014
June 26, 2014
September 12, 2014
December 19, 2014
March 11, 2015
June 24, 2015
September 24, 2015
December 29, 2015
March 10, 2016
June 8, 2016
September 28, 2016
10. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The following is a schedule of consolidated financial highlights for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:
Per Share Data:
Net asset value per share, beginning of period
Net investment income (loss) (1)
Dividends declared (2)
Effect of subscription offering price(3)
Net asset value per share, end of period
Number of shares outstanding, end of period
Total return (4)
Net assets, end of period
Ratio to average net assets(5):
Expenses net of waiver, before incentive fees
Expenses net of waiver, after incentive fees
Expenses gross of waiver, after incentive fees
Net investment income (loss)(6)
Interest expense and credit facility fees
Ratios/Supplemental Data:
Asset coverage, end of period
Portfolio turnover
Total committed capital, end of period
Ratio of total contributed capital to total committed capital, end of period
Weighted-average shares outstanding
53
11. LITIGATION
The Company may become party to certain lawsuits in the ordinary course of business. The Company does not believe that the outcome of current matters, if any, will materially impact the Company or its consolidated financial statements. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company was not subject to any material legal proceedings, nor, to the Company’s knowledge, is any material legal proceeding threatened against the Company.
In addition, portfolio investments of the Company could be the subject of litigation or regulatory investigations in the ordinary course of business. The Company does not believe that the outcome of any current contingent liabilities of its portfolio investments, if any, will materially affect the Company or these consolidated financial statements.
12. TAX
The Company has not recorded a liability for any uncertain tax positions pursuant to the provisions of ASC 740, Income Taxes, as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by federal and certain state, local and foreign tax regulators. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had filed tax returns and therefore is subject to examination.
The Company’s taxable income for each period is an estimate and will not be finally determined until the Company files its tax return for each year. Therefore, the final taxable income, and the taxable income earned in each period and carried forward for distribution in the following period, may be different than this estimate. The estimated tax character of dividends declared for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was as follows:
Ordinary income
Tax return of capital
13. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Subsequent events have been evaluated through the date the consolidated financial statements were issued. There have been no subsequent events that require recognition or disclosure through the date the consolidated financial statements were issued, except as disclosed below.
54
Subsequent to September 30, 2016, the Company borrowed $83,500 under the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility to fund investment acquisitions. The Company also voluntarily repaid $82,047 under the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility.
On October 14, 2016, Credit Fund issued a capital call and delivered capital drawdown notices of $5,000 each to the Company and Credit Partners. Proceeds from the capital call were due, and the related issuance of $10,000 of subordinated loans occurred, on October 21, 2016.
On October 14, 2016, the Company sold an investment to a wholly-owned subsidiary of Credit Fund for proceeds of $19,800. The Company had no realized gain or loss on this trade. See Note 5, Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC, for further information about Credit Fund.
On November 4, 2016, the Company issued a capital call and delivered capital drawdown notices totaling $35,427. Proceeds from the capital call and the related issuance of 1,905,705 shares is expected on or about November 18, 2016.
55
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data, unless otherwise indicated)
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
We have included or incorporated by reference in this Form 10-Q, and from time to time our management may make, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but instead relate to future events or the future performance or financial condition of Carlyle GMS Finance, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our,” “GMS Finance,” or the “Company”). These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about us, our current or prospective portfolio investments, our industry, our beliefs, and our assumptions. The forward-looking statements contained in this Form 10-Q and the documents incorporated by reference herein involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements concerning:
We use words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “should,” “may” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements include these words. Our actual results and condition could differ materially from those implied or expressed in the forward-looking statements for any reason, including the factors set forth in “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and Part II, Item 1A of and elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.
We have based the forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-Q on information available to us on the date of this Form 10-Q, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Although we undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of
56
new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we have filed or in the future may file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.
OVERVIEW
Management’s Discussion and Analysis should be read in conjunction with Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q “Financial Statements.” This discussion contains forward-looking statements and involves numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to those described in Part I, Item 1A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and Part II, Item 1A of this Form 10-Q “Risk Factors.” Actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.
Carlyle GMS Finance, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our,” “GMS Finance,” or the “Company”) is a Maryland corporation formed on February 8, 2012, and structured as an externally managed, non-diversified closed-end investment company. GMS Finance has elected to be regulated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the “Investment Company Act”). GMS Finance has elected to be treated, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements to qualify annually, as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, (the “Code”).
GMS Finance’s investment objective is to generate current income and capital appreciation primarily through debt investments in U.S. middle market companies, which we define as companies with approximately $10 million to $100 million of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”). GMS Finance seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing primarily in first lien senior secured loans (which may include stand-alone first lien loans; first lien/last out loans, which are loans that have a secondary priority behind first lien/first out loans; “unitranche” loans, which are loans that combine features of first lien, second lien or subordinated loans, generally in a first lien position; and secured corporate bonds with features similar to the features of these categories of first lien loans) and second lien senior secured loans (which may include senior secured loans, and, to a lesser extent, secured corporate bonds, with a secondary priority behind first lien loans) (collectively, “Middle Market Senior Loans”). The Middle Market Senior Loans are generally made to private U.S. middle market companies that are, in many cases, controlled by private equity firms. Depending on market conditions, GMS Finance expects that between 70% and 80% of the value of its assets will be invested in Middle Market Senior Loans, with the balance invested in higher-yielding investments, which may include middle market junior loans such as corporate mezzanine loans, equity co-investments, broadly syndicated first lien and second lien senior secured loans, high-yield bonds, structured finance obligations and/or other opportunistic investments. We expect that the composition of our portfolio will change over time given our Investment Adviser’s view on, among other things, the economic and credit environment (including with respect to interest rates) in which we are operating.
GMS Finance is externally managed by the Investment Adviser, an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Administrator provides the administrative services necessary for GMS Finance to operate. Both the Investment Adviser and the Administrator are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Carlyle Investment Management L.L.C., a subsidiary of The Carlyle Group L.P. “Carlyle” refers to The Carlyle Group L.P., its affiliates and its consolidated subsidiaries, a global alternative asset manager publicly traded on NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “CG”. Refer to the sec.gov website for further information on Carlyle.
On February 29, 2016, the Company and Credit Partners USA LLC (“Credit Partners”) entered into an amended and restated limited liability company agreement (as amended, the “Limited Liability Company Agreement”) to co-manage Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC (“Credit Fund”). Credit Fund primarily invests in first lien loans of middle-market companies. Credit Fund is managed by a six-member board of managers, on which the Company and Credit Partners each have equal representation. The Company and Credit Partners each have 50% economic ownership of Credit Fund and have commitments to fund, from time to time, capital of up to $400,000 each.
57
Our level of investment activity can and does vary substantially from period to period depending on many factors, including the amount of debt available to middle market companies, the general economic environment and the competitive environment for the type of investments we make.
Revenue
We generate revenue primarily in the form of interest and fee income on debt investments we hold and capital gains, if any, on investments. Our debt investments generally have a stated term of five to eight years and generally bear interest at a floating rate usually determined on the basis of a benchmark such as LIBOR. Interest on these debt investments is generally paid quarterly. In some instances, we receive payments on our debt investments based on scheduled amortization of the outstanding
balances. In addition, we receive repayments of some of our debt investments prior to their scheduled maturity date. The frequency or volume of these repayments fluctuates significantly from period to period. Our portfolio activity also reflects the proceeds of sales of securities. We may also generate revenue in the form of commitment, origination, amendment, structuring or due diligence fees, fees for providing managerial assistance and consulting fees.
Our primary operating expenses include the payment of: (i) investment advisory fees, including base management fees and incentive fees, to our Investment Adviser pursuant to an investment advisory agreement (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) between us and our Investment Adviser; (ii) costs and other expenses and our allocable portion of overhead incurred by the Administrator in performing its administrative obligations under an administration agreement (the “Administration Agreement”) between us and our Administrator; and (iii) other operating expenses as detailed below:
58
We expect our general and administrative expenses to be relatively stable or to decline as a percentage of total assets during periods of asset growth and to increase during periods of asset declines.
PORTFOLIO AND INVESTMENT ACTIVITY
The fair value of our investments was approximately $1,382,614 comprised of 90 portfolio companies/structured finance obligations/investment fund as of September 30, 2016. The fair value of our investments was approximately $1,052,666 comprised of 85 portfolio companies/structured finance obligations as of December 31, 2015.
59
The Company’s investment activity for the three month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 is presented below (information presented herein is at amortized cost unless otherwise indicated):
Investments:
Total investments, beginning of period
New investments purchased
Investments sold or repaid
Total Investments, end of period
Principal amount of investments funded:
Principal amount of investments sold or repaid:
Number of new funded investments
Average new funded investment amount
Percentage of new funded debt investments at floating rates
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, investments consisted of the following:
60
The weighted average yields (1) for our first and second lien debt, based on the amortized cost and fair value as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, were as follows:
First Lien Debt (excluding First Lien/Last Out)
First Lien/Last Out Unitranche
First and Second Lien Debt Total
See the Consolidated Schedules of Investments as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 in our consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for more information on these investments, including a list of companies and type and amount of investments.
As part of the monitoring process, our Investment Adviser has developed risk policies pursuant to which it regularly assesses the risk profile of each of our debt investments and rates each of them based on the following categories, which we refer to as “Internal Risk Ratings”:
Internal Risk Ratings Definitions
Rating
Definition
1
Our Investment Adviser’s risk rating model is based on evaluating portfolio company performance in comparison to the Base Case when considering certain credit metrics including, but not limited to, adjusted EBITDA and net senior leverage as well as specific events including, but not limited to, default and impairment.
61
Our Investment Adviser monitors and, when appropriate, changes the investment ratings assigned to each debt investment in our portfolio. In connection with our quarterly valuation process, our Investment Adviser reviews our investment ratings on a regular basis. The following table summarizes the Internal Risk Ratings as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Internal Risk Rating 1
Internal Risk Rating 2
Internal Risk Rating 3
Internal Risk Rating 4
Internal Risk Rating 5
Internal Risk Rating 6
As part of our monitoring process, our Investment Adviser has developed risk policies pursuant to which it regularly assesses the risk profile of each of the structured finance obligation investments.
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the weighted average Internal Risk Rating of our debt investment portfolio was 2.2 and 2.1, respectively.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015
The net increase or decrease in net assets from operations may vary substantially from period to period as a result of various factors, including the recognition of realized gains and losses and net change in unrealized appreciation and depreciation. As a result, quarterly comparisons may not be meaningful.
Investment Income
Interest income for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:
The increase in interest and dividend income for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 from the comparable periods in 2015 was driven by our deployment of capital, increasing invested balance and a dividend declared by Credit Fund. As of September 30, 2016, the size of our portfolio increased to $1,389,472 from $982,026 as of September 30, 2015, at amortized cost, and total principal amount of investments outstanding increased to $1,437,034 from $1,039,912 as of September 30, 2015. As of September 30, 2016, the weighted average yield of our first and second lien debt increased to 7.98% from 7.30% as of September 30, 2015, on amortized cost.
62
Interest income on our first and second lien debt investments is dependent on the composition and credit quality of the portfolio. Generally, we expect the portfolio to generate predictable quarterly interest income based on the terms stated in each loan’s credit agreement. As of September 30, 2016 and 2015, all of our first and second lien debt investments were performing and current on their interest payments. Interest income from structured finance obligations is recorded based upon an estimation of an effective yield to expected maturity utilizing assumed cash flows. The effective yield is updated at least quarterly based on payments received and expected future payments. In estimating these cash flows, there are a number of assumptions that are subject to uncertainties, including the amount and timing of principal payments which are impacted by prepayments, repurchases, defaults, delinquencies and liquidations of or within the CLO funds that issued the structured finance obligations. These uncertainties are difficult to predict and are subject to future events that could have impacted the Company’s estimates if the information was known at the time of such estimates. As a result, actual results may differ significantly from these estimates.
Net investment income for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was as follows:
Base management fees
Incentive fees
Administrative service fees
Credit facility fees
Waiver of base management fees
63
Interest expense and credit facility fees for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were comprised of the following:
The increase in interest expense for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 from the comparable periods in 2015 was driven by increased usage of the Company’s credit facilities, additional debt issued through the securitization in the form of the 2015-1 Notes (see Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for more information), and increased deployment of capital to investments. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, the weighted average interest rate under the facilities was 2.75% and 2.67%, respectively, and average principal debt outstanding was $292,084 and $277,575, respectively. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, the weighted average interest rate under the facilities was 2.28% and 2.22%, respectively, and average principal debt outstanding was $167,952 and $285,547, respectively.
The increase in base management fees (and related waiver of base management fees) and incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income for the three month and nine month period ended September 30, 2016 from the comparable periods in 2015 were driven by our deployment of capital and increasing invested balance. The accrual for any capital gains incentive fee under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“US GAAP”) in a given period may result in an additional expense if such cumulative amount is greater than in the prior period or a reduction of previously recorded expense if such cumulative amount is less than in the prior period. If such cumulative amount is negative, then there is no accrual. See Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for more information on the incentive and base management fees. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, there were no capital gains incentive fees based upon the cumulative net realized and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) as of September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Professional fees include legal, rating agencies, audit, tax, valuation, technology and other professional fees incurred related to the management of the Company. Administrative service fees represent fees paid to the Administrator for our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under the administration agreement, including our allocable portion of the cost of certain of our executive officers and their respective staff. Other general and administrative expenses include insurance, filing, research, subscriptions and other costs.
Net Realized Gain (Loss) and Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Investments
During the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, the Company had a change in unrealized appreciation on 69 and 86 investments, respectively, totaling approximately $19,587 and $34,680, respectively, which was offset by a change in unrealized depreciation on 32 and 25 investments, respectively, totaling approximately $6,807 and $14,484, respectively. During the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, the Company had a change in unrealized appreciation on 38 and 64 investments, respectively, totaling approximately $7,122 and $13,956, respectively, which was offset by a change in unrealized depreciation on 60 and 47 investments, respectively, totaling approximately $8,626 and $11,211, respectively.
64
Net realized gain (loss) and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) by the type of investments for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:
Net change in unrealized depreciation in our investments for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 compared to the comparable periods in 2015 was primarily due to changes in various inputs utilized under our valuation methodology, including, but not limited to, market spreads, leverage multiples and borrower ratings.
MIDDLE MARKET CREDIT FUND, LLC
On February 29, 2016, the Company and Credit Partners entered into the Limited Liability Company Agreement to co-manage Credit Fund, an unconsolidated Delaware limited liability company. Credit Fund primarily invests in first lien loans of middle-market companies. Credit Fund is managed by a six-member board
65
of managers, on which the Company and Credit Partners each have equal representation. The Company and Credit Partners each have 50% economic ownership of Credit Fund and have commitments to fund, from time to time, capital of up to $400,000 each. Funding of such commitment generally requires the approval of the board of Credit Fund, including the board members appointed by the Company.
Together with Credit Partners, the Company co-invests through Credit Fund. Portfolio and investment decisions with respect to Credit Fund must be unanimously approved by a quorum of Credit Fund’s investment committee consisting of an equal number of representatives of the Company and Credit Partners. Therefore, although the Company owns more than 25% of the voting securities of Credit Fund, the Company does not believe that it has control over Credit Fund (other than for purposes of the Investment Company Act). Middle Market Credit Fund SPV, LLC (the “Credit Fund Sub”), a Delaware limited liability company, was formed on April 5, 2016. Credit Fund Sub primarily invests in first lien loans of middle-market companies. Credit Fund Sub is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Credit Fund and is consolidated in Credit Fund’s consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of its formation.
66
EIP Merger Sub, LLC (EvolveIP) (2) (3) (4) (7) (16)
PAI Holdco, Inc. (Parts Authority) (2) (3) (4)
Pasternack Enterprises, Inc. (InfiniteRF) (2) (3) (4)
QW Holding Corporation(Quala) (2) (3) (4) (12) (15)
The Original Cakerie, Ltd.(Canada) (2) (3) (4)(14)
Vantage Specialty Chemicals, Inc. (2) (3) (4)
67
Below is certain summarized consolidated financial information for Credit Fund as of September 30, 2016 and for the three and nine month ended September 2016. Credit Fund commenced operations in May 2016.
68
During the nine month period ended September 30, 2016, there were mezzanine loans borrowings of $54,200 and repayments of $22,400 under the Credit Fund Facility. As of September 30, 2016, there were $31,800 in mezzanine loans outstanding.
Credit Fund Sub closed on June 24, 2016 on the Credit Fund Sub Facility. The Credit Fund Sub Facility provides for secured borrowings during the applicable revolving period up to an amount equal to $440,000, with an accordion feature that can increase the aggregate maximum credit commitment up to an amount not to exceed $1,400,000. The Facility is secured by a first lien security interest in substantially all of the portfolio investments held by Credit Fund Sub and the Company’s and Credit Partners’ unfunded capital commitments.
FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We generate cash from the net proceeds of offerings of our common stock and through cash flows from operations, including investment sales and repayments as well as income earned on investments and cash equivalents. We may also fund a portion of our investments through borrowings under the Borrower Sub’s senior secured revolving credit facility (as amended, the “Revolving Credit Facility”) and/or the Company’s senior secured revolving credit facility (as amended, the “Facility”), as well as through securitization of a portion of our existing investments.
The Borrower Sub closed on May 24, 2013 on the Revolving Credit Facility, which was subsequently amended on June 30, 2014, June 19, 2015 and June 9, 2016. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for secured borrowings during the applicable revolving period up to an amount equal to the lesser of $400,000 (the
69
borrowing base as calculated pursuant to the terms of the Revolving Credit Facility) and the amount of net cash proceeds and unpledged capital commitments the Company has received, with an accordion feature that can, subject to certain conditions, increase the aggregate maximum credit commitment up to an amount not to exceed $750,000, subject to restrictions imposed on borrowings under the Investment Company Act and certain restrictions and conditions set forth in the Revolving Credit Facility, including adequate collateral to support such borrowings. The Revolving Credit Facility imposes financial and operating covenants on us and the Borrower Sub that restrict our and its business activities. Continued compliance with these covenants will depend on many factors, some of which are beyond our control.
The Company closed on March 21, 2014 on the Facility, which was subsequently amended on January 8, 2015 and May 25, 2016. The maximum principal amount of the Facility is $220,000, subject to availability under the Facility, which is based on certain advance rates multiplied by the value of the Company’s portfolio investments (subject to certain concentration limitations) net of certain other indebtedness that the Company may incur in accordance with the terms of the Facility. Proceeds of the Facility may be used for general corporate purposes, including the funding of portfolio investments. Maximum capacity under the Facility may be increased to $225,000 through the exercise by the Company of an uncommitted accordion feature through which existing and new lenders may, at their option, agree to provide additional financing. The Facility includes a $20,000 limit for swingline loans and a $5,000 limit for letters of credit. Subject to certain exceptions, the Facility is secured by a first lien security interest in substantially all of the portfolio investments held by the Company. The Facility includes customary covenants, including certain financial covenants related to asset coverage, shareholders’ equity and liquidity, certain limitations on the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens, and other maintenance covenants, as well as usual and customary events of default for senior secured revolving credit facilities of this nature.
Although we believe that we and the Borrower Sub will remain in compliance, there are no assurances that we or the Borrower Sub will continue to comply with the covenants in the Facility and Revolving Credit Facility, as applicable. Failure to comply with these covenants could result in a default under the Facility and/or Revolving Credit Facility that, if we or the Borrower Sub were unable to obtain a waiver from the applicable lenders, could result in the immediate acceleration of the amounts due under the Facility and/or Revolving Credit Facility, and thereby have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
For more information on the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility, see Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
The primary use of existing funds and any funds raised in the future is expected to be for investments in portfolio companies, repayment of indebtedness, cash distributions to our stockholders and for other general corporate purposes.
On June 26, 2015, the Company completed a $400 million term debt securitization (the “2015-1 Debt Securitization”). The notes offered in the Debt Securitization (the “2015-1 Notes”) were issued by Carlyle GMS Finance MM CLO 2015-1 LLC (the “2015-1 Issuer”), a wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of the Company, and are secured by a diversified portfolio of the 2015-1 Issuer consisting primarily of first and second lien senior secured loans. The 2015-1 Debt Securitization was executed through a private placement of the 2015-1 Notes, consisting of $160 million of Aaa/AAA Class A-1A Notes, which bear interest at the three-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.85%; $40 million of Aaa/AAA Class A-1B Notes, which bear interest at the three-month LIBOR plus 1.75% for the first 24 months and the three-month LIBOR plus 2.05% thereafter; $27 million of Aaa/AAA Class A-1C Notes, which bear interest at 3.75%; and $46 million of Aa2 Class A-2 Notes which bear interest at the three-month LIBOR plus 2.70%. The 2015-1 Notes were issued at par and are scheduled to mature on July 15, 2027. The Company received 100% of the preferred interests (the “Preferred Interests”) issued by the 2015-1 Issuer on the closing date of the 2015-1 Debt Securitization in exchange for the Company’s contribution to the Issuer of the initial closing date loan portfolio. The Preferred
70
Interests do not bear interest and had a nominal value of $125.9 million at closing. In connection with the contribution, the Company has made customary representations, warranties and covenants to the 2015-1 Issuer. The Class A-1A, Class A-1B and Class A-1C and Class A-2 Notes are included in the consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q. The Preferred Interests were eliminated in consolidation. For more information on the 2015-1 Notes, see Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had $49,841 and $41,837, respectively, in cash and cash equivalents. The facilities of the Company and the Borrower Sub consisted of the following as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
The following were the carrying values (before debt issuance costs) and fair values of the Company’s 2015-1 Notes as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Equity Activity
There were $18,105 and $36,530 of investor equity capital commitments made to the Company during the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, respectively. There were $8,425 and $30,007 of investor equity capital commitments made to the Company during the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, respectively. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had $1,210,870 and $1,174,340, respectively, in total capital commitments from stockholders, of which $445,642 and $559,214, respectively, was unfunded. As of September 30, 2016, current directors had committed $608 in capital commitments to the Company.
Shares issued as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were 39,791,482 and 31,524,683, respectively.
71
The following table summarizes activity in the number of shares of our common stock outstanding during the nine month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:
Shares outstanding, beginning of period
Shares outstanding, end of period
Contractual Obligations
A summary of our significant contractual payment obligations was as follows as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
For more information on the Revolving Credit Facility and Facility and 2015-1 Notes, see Note 6 and Note 7, respectively, to the consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $196,016 and $170,313, respectively, of secured borrowings were outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility, and $199,000 and $64,000, respectively, were outstanding under the Facility and $273,000 and $273,000, respectively, of 2015-1 Notes were outstanding. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2016, we incurred $4,051 and $11,475, respectively, of interest expense and $351 and $1,034, respectively, of unused commitment fees. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015, we incurred $2,658 and $6,567, respectively, of interest expense and $282 and $587, respectively, of unused commitment fees.
OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
In the ordinary course of its business, the Company enters into contracts or agreements that contain indemnification and warranties. Future events could occur that lead to the execution of these provisions against the Company. The Company believes that the likelihood of such an event is remote; however, the maximum potential exposure is unknown. No accrual has been made in these consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for any such exposure.
We have in the past and may in the future become obligated to fund commitments such as revolving credit facilities, bridge financing commitments, or delayed draw commitments.
72
Pursuant to an undertaking by the Company in connection with the 2015-1 Debt Securitization, the Company agreed to hold on an ongoing basis Preferred Interests with an aggregate dollar purchase price at least equal to 5% of the aggregate outstanding amount of all collateral obligations by the 2015-1 Issuer for so long as any securities of the 2015-1 Issuer remains outstanding. As of September 30, 2016, the Company was in compliance with its undertaking.
As of September 30, 2016, the Company had remaining commitments to fund, from time to time, capital to Credit Fund of up to $375,999. As of September 30, 2016, the Company had remaining commitments to fund, from time to time, mezzanine loans to Credit Fund of up to $68,200, of which $1,280 was available for borrowing based on the computation of collateral to support the borrowings.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS
The Company has adopted a dividend reinvestment plan that provides for reinvestment of any distributions on behalf of its stockholders, for those who have elected to participate in the plan. As a result of adopting such a plan, if the Board of Directors authorizes and declares a cash dividend or distribution, the stockholders who have elected to participate in the dividend reinvestment plan would have their cash dividends or distributions automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Company’s common stock, rather than receiving cash. Prior to a Qualified IPO, the Company intends to use primarily newly issued shares of its common stock to implement the plan issued at the net asset value per share most recently determined by the Board of Directors. After a Qualified IPO, the Company intends to use primarily newly issued shares to implement the plan so long as the market value per share is equal to or greater than the net asset value per share as of the close of business on the relevant payment date for such dividend or distribution. If the market value per share is less than the net asset value per share as of the close of business on the relevant payment date, the plan administrator would purchase the common stock on behalf of participants in the open market, unless the Company instructs the plan administrator otherwise.
DateDeclared
Record Date
Payment Date
March 31, 2014
April 14, 2014
June 30, 2014
July 14, 2014
September 18, 2014
October 9, 2014
December 29, 2014
January 26, 2015
March 13, 2015
April 17, 2015
June 30, 2015
July 22, 2015
October 22, 2015
January 22, 2016
March 14, 2016
April 22, 2016
July 22, 2016
October 24, 2016
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. Changes in the economic environment, financial markets, and any other parameters used in determining such estimates could cause actual results to
73
differ. Our critical accounting policies, including those relating to the valuation of our investment portfolio, are described below. The critical accounting policies should be read in connection with our consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q and in Part II, Item 8 of the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.
Fair Value Measurements
Securities/instruments that are illiquid or for which the pricing source does not provide a valuation or methodology or provides a valuation or methodology that, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser or the Board of Directors, does not represent fair value shall each be valued as of the measurement date using all techniques appropriate under the circumstances and for which sufficient data is available. These valuation techniques may vary by investment and include comparable public market valuations, comparable precedent transaction valuations and/or discounted cash flow analyses. The process generally used to determine the applicable value is as follows: (i) the value of each portfolio company or investment is initially reviewed by the investment professionals responsible for such portfolio company or investment and, for non-traded investments, a standardized template designed to approximate fair market value based on observable market inputs, updated credit statistics and unobservable inputs is used to determine a preliminary value, which is also reviewed alongside consensus pricing, where available; (ii) preliminary valuation conclusions are documented and reviewed by a valuation committee comprised of members of senior management; (iii) the Board of Directors engages a third-party valuation firm to provide positive assurance on portions of the Middle Market Senior Loans and equity investments portfolio each quarter (such that each non-traded investment other than Credit Fund and the 2015-1 Issuer is reviewed by a third-party valuation firm at least once on a rolling twelve month basis) including a review of management’s preliminary valuation and conclusion on fair value; (iv) the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) reviews the assessments of the Investment Adviser and the third-party valuation firm and provides the Board of Directors with any recommendations with respect to changes to the fair value of each investment in the portfolio; and (v) the Board of Directors discusses the valuation recommendations of the Audit Committee and determines the fair value of each investment in the portfolio in good faith based on the input of the Investment Adviser and, where applicable, the third-party valuation firm.
74
75
Transfer between levels, if any, are recognized at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfers occur.
Investments in the investment fund’s subordinated loan and member’s interest are valued using the net asset value of the Company’s ownership interest in the funds and investments in the investment fund’s mezzanine loans are valued using the expected repayment rate.
76
The carrying values of the secured borrowings and 2015-1 Notes approximate their respective fair values and are categorized as Level III within the hierarchy. Secured borrowings are valued generally using discounted cash flow analysis. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s secured borrowings are discount rates. Significant increases in discount rates would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement. The fair value determination of the Company’s 2015-1 Notes was based on the market quotation(s) received from broker/dealer(s). These fair value measurements were based on significant inputs not observable and thus represent Level III measurements as defined in the accounting guidance for fair value measurement.
See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for further information on fair value measurements.
The preparation of consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q, in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make assumptions and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management’s estimates are based on historical experiences and other factors, including expectations of future events that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. It also requires management to exercise judgment in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies. Assumptions and estimates regarding the valuation of investments and their resulting impact on base management and incentive fees involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity and these assumptions and estimates may be significant to the consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q. Actual results could differ from these estimates and such differences could be material.
Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Realized gains or losses are measured by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the amortized cost basis of the investment using the specific identification method without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized, and includes investments charged off during the period, net of recoveries. Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments as presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q reflects the net change in the fair value of investments, including the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation or depreciation when gains or losses are realized.
The Company may have loans in its portfolio that contain payment-in-kind (“PIK”) provisions. PIK represents interest that is accrued and recorded as interest income at the contractual rates, increases the loan principal on the respective capitalization dates, and is generally due at maturity.
77
Interest income from investments in the “equity” class of CLO funds, which are included in “structured finance obligations”, is recorded based upon an estimation of an effective yield to expected maturity utilizing assumed cash flows in accordance with ASC 325-40, Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financials Assets. We monitor the expected cash inflows from our CLO equity investments, including the expected residual payments and the effective yield is determined and updated at least quarterly. In estimating these cash flows, there are a number of assumptions that are subject to uncertainties, including the amount and timing of principal payments which are impacted by prepayments, repurchases, defaults, delinquencies and liquidations of or within the CLO funds. These uncertainties are difficult to predict and are subject to future events that could have impacted the Company’s estimates if the information was known at the time. As a result, actual results may differ significantly from these estimates.
Other income may include income such as consent, waiver, amendment, and syndication fees associated with the Company’s investment activities as well as any fees for managerial assistance services rendered by the Company to portfolio companies. Such fees are recognized as income when earned or the services are rendered. The Company may receive fees for guaranteeing the outstanding debt of a portfolio company. Such fees will be amortized into other income over the life of the guarantee. The unamortized amount, if any, is included in other assets in the Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when principal or interest payments are past due 30 days or more or when there is reasonable doubt that principal or interest will be collected in full. Accrued and unpaid interest is generally reversed when a loan is placed on non-accrual status. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans may be recognized as income or applied to principal depending upon management’s judgment regarding collectability. Non-accrual loans are restored to accrual status when past due principal and interest are paid current and, in management’s judgment, are likely to remain current. Management may not place a loan on non-accrual status if the loan has sufficient collateral value and is in the process of collection.
78
The Borrower Sub is a disregarded entity for tax purposes and is consolidated with the tax return of GMS Finance.
The Company records the shares issued in connection with capital calls as of the effective date of the capital call. To the extent that the Company has taxable income available, the Company intends to make quarterly distributions to its common stockholders. Dividends and distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the record date. The amount to be distributed is determined by the Board of Directors each quarter and is generally based upon the taxable earnings estimated by management and available cash. Net realized capital gains, if any, are generally distributed at least annually, although the Company may decide to retain such capital gains for investment.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
We are subject to financial market risks, including changes in the valuations of our investment portfolio and interest rates.
Valuation Risk
Our investments may not have a readily available market price, and we value these investments at fair value as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors in accordance with our valuation policy. There is no single standard for determining fair value in good faith. As a result, determining fair value requires that judgment be applied to the specific facts and circumstances of each portfolio investment while employing a consistently applied valuation process for the types of investments we make. Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Company’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, these estimated values may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market for the investments existed, and it is possible that the difference could be material.
Interest Rate Risk
As of September 30, 2016, on a fair value basis, approximately 1% of our debt investments bear interest at a fixed rate and approximately 99% of our debt investments bear interest at a floating rate, which primarily are subject to interest rate floors. Interest rates on the investments held within the Company’s portfolio of investments are typically based on floating LIBOR, with many of these investments also having a LIBOR floor. Additionally, the Company’s credit facilities are also subject to floating interest rates and are currently paid based on floating LIBOR rates.
79
Interest rate sensitivity refers to the change in earnings that may result from changes in the level of interest rates. There can be no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our income in the future.
The following table estimates the potential changes in net cash flow generated from interest income, should interest rates increase or decrease by 100, 200 or 300 basis points. Interest income is calculated as revenue from interest generated from the Company’s settled portfolio of investments held as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, excluding structured finance obligations and investment fund. These hypothetical calculations are based on a model of the settled investments in our portfolio, excluding structured finance obligations and investment fund, held as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and are only adjusted for assumed changes in the underlying base interest rates and the impact of that change on interest income. Interest expense is calculated based on outstanding secured borrowings and 2015-1 Notes as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 and based on the terms of the Company’s credit facilities and 2015-1 Notes. Interest expense on the Company’s credit facilities is calculated using the interest rate as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, adjusted for the hypothetical changes in rates, as shown below. We intend to continue to finance a portion of our investments with borrowings and the interest rates paid on our borrowings may impact significantly our net interest income.
The Company regularly measures exposure to interest rate risk. The Company assesses interest rate risk and manages interest rate exposure on an ongoing basis by comparing our interest rate sensitive assets to our interest rate sensitive liabilities. Based on that review, we determine whether or not any hedging transactions are necessary to mitigate exposure to changes in interest rates.
Based on our Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the following table shows the annual impact on net investment income of base rate changes in interest rates for our settled investments (considering interest rate floors for variable rate instruments), excluding structured finance obligations and investment fund, and outstanding secured borrowings and 2015-1 Notes assuming no changes in our investment and borrowing structure:
Basis Point Change
Up 300 basis points
Up 200 basis points
Up 100 basis points
Down 100 basis points
Down 200 basis points
Down 300 basis points
Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)). Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer have concluded that our current disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely alerting them of material information relating to the Company that is required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act.
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the three month period ended September 30, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
80
PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
The Company may become party to certain lawsuits in the ordinary course of business. The Company is not currently subject to any material legal proceedings, nor, to our knowledge, is any material legal proceeding threatened against the Company. See also Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Except as set forth below, there have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. For a discussion of our potential risks and uncertainties, see the information under the heading “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 filed with the SEC on March 11, 2016, which is accessible on the SEC’s website at sec.gov.
We may be exposed to special risks associated with bankruptcy case.
One or more of our portfolio companies may be involved in bankruptcy or other reorganization or liquidation proceedings. The reorganization of a company can involve substantial legal, professional and administrative costs to a lender and the borrower. It is subject to unpredictable and lengthy delays, and during the process a company’s competitive position may erode, key management may depart and a company may not be able to invest adequately. In some cases, the debtor company may not be able to reorganize and may be required to liquidate assets. The debt of companies in financial reorganization will, in most cases, not pay current interest, may not accrue interest during reorganization and may be adversely affected by an erosion of the issuer’s fundamental value. To the extent we and an affiliate both hold investments in the same portfolio company that are of a different character, we may also face restrictions on our ability to become actively involved in the event that portfolio company becomes distressed as a result of the restrictions imposed on transactions involving affiliates under the Investment Company Act. In such cases, we may be unable to exercise rights we may otherwise have to protect our interests as security holders in such portfolio company.
Our ability to extend financial commitments may be limited.
The SEC has proposed a new Rule 18f-4 under the Investment Company Act that, if enacted in the form proposed, could adversely impact the way we and other BDCs do business. In addition to imposing restrictions on the use of derivatives, the rule would generally limit our financial commitments to portfolio companies, together with our exposure to other transactions involving senior securities entered into by us other than in reliance of the rule, to not more than 150 percent of our net asset value. We cannot assure you when or if the proposed rule will be adopted by the SEC, and if adopted, whether the final rule will constrain our ability to extend financial commitments.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
Except as previously reported by the Company on Form 8-K, we did not sell any equity securities during the period covered in this report that were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
Not applicable.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
81
Item 5. Other Information.
On November 9, 2016, Michael L. Rankowitz resigned as an Independent Director of the Board of Directors of the Company effective November 9, 2016. In connection therewith, Mr. Rankowitz also resigned as a member of the Audit Committee and the Pricing Committee of the Board of Directors.
Item 6. Exhibits.
82
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
/s/ Venugopal Rathi
Venugopal Rathi
Chief Financial Officer
83