The following discussion is designed to provide a better understanding of our
unaudited consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31,
2021, including a brief discussion of our business, key factors that impacted
our performance and a summary of our operating results. The following discussion
should be read in conjunction with the Unaudited Consolidated Financial
Statements and the notes thereto included in Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q, and the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto and
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2020. Historical results and percentage relationships among any
amounts in the financial statements are not necessarily indicative of trends in
operating results for any future periods.
Forward-Looking Statements
Some of the statements in this Quarterly Report constitute forward-looking
statements because they relate to future events or our future performance or
financial condition. Forward-looking statements may include, among other things,
statements as to our future operating results, our business prospects and the
prospects of our portfolio companies, the impact of the investments that we
expect to make, the ability of our portfolio companies to achieve their
objectives, our expected financings and investments, the adequacy of our cash
resources and working capital, and the timing of cash flows, if any, from the
operations of our portfolio companies. Words such as "expect," "anticipate,"
"target," "goals," "project," "intend," "plan," "believe," "seek," "estimate,"
"continue," "forecast," "may," "should," "potential," variations of such words,
and similar expressions indicate a forward-looking statement, although not all
forward-looking statements include these words. Readers are cautioned that the
forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report are only
predictions, are not guarantees of future performance, and are subject to risks,
events, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Our actual
results could differ materially from those implied or expressed in the
forward-looking statements for any reason, including the items discussed herein,
in Item 1A entitled "Risk Factors" in Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2020 and in Item 1A entitled "Risk Factors" in
Part II of our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Other factors
that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially
include, but are not limited to, changes in political, economic or industry
conditions, the interest rate environment or conditions affecting the financial
and capital markets, including with respect to changes from the impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic; the length and duration of the COVID-19 outbreak in the
United States as well as worldwide and the magnitude of the economic impact of
that outbreak; the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business prospects and
the prospects of our portfolio companies, including our and their ability to
achieve our respective objectives; the effect of the disruptions caused by the
COVID-19 pandemic on our ability to continue to effectively manage our business
and on the availability of equity and debt capital and our use of borrowed money
to finance a portion of our investments; risks associated with possible
disruption due to terrorism in our operations or the economy generally; and
future changes in laws or regulations and conditions in our operating areas.
These statements are based on our current expectations, estimates, forecasts,
information and projections about the industry in which we operate and the
beliefs and assumptions of our management as of the date of filing of this
Quarterly Report. We assume no obligation to update or revise any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise, unless we are required to do so by law. Although we
undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements,
whether as a result of 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 in the future may file with the SEC, including annual
reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form
8-K.
Overview of Our Business
We are a Maryland corporation incorporated on October 10, 2006. In August 2018,
in connection with the closing of an externalization transaction through which
Barings LLC ("Barings") agreed to become our external investment adviser, we
entered into an investment advisory agreement (the "Original Advisory
Agreement") and an administration agreement (the "Administration Agreement")
with Barings. In connection with the completion of our acquisition of MVC
Capital, Inc., a Delaware corporation, on December 23, 2020 (the "MVC
Acquisition"), we entered into an amended and restated investment advisory
agreement (the "Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement") with Barings on
December 23, 2020, following approval of the Amended and Restated Advisory
Agreement by our stockholders at our December 23, 2020 special meeting of
stockholders. The terms of the Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement became
effective on January 1, 2021. Under the terms of the Amended and Restated
Advisory Agreement and the Administration Agreement, Barings serves as our
investment adviser and administrator and manages our investment portfolio and
performs (or oversees, or arranges for, the performance of) the administrative
services necessary for our operation.
An externally-managed BDC generally does not have any employees, and its
investment and management functions are provided by an outside investment
adviser and administrator under an advisory agreement and administration
agreement.
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Instead of directly compensating employees, we pay Barings for investment and
management services pursuant to the terms of the Amended and Restated Advisory
Agreement (and, prior to January 1, 2021, pursuant to the terms of the Original
Advisory Agreement) and the Administration Agreement. Under the terms of the
Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement (and, prior to January 1, 2021, under
the terms of the Original Advisory Agreement), the fees paid to Barings for
managing our affairs are determined based upon an objective and fixed formula,
as compared with the subjective and variable nature of the costs associated with
employing management and employees in an internally-managed BDC structure, which
include bonuses that cannot be directly tied to Company performance because of
restrictions on incentive compensation under the 1940 Act.
Beginning in August 2018, Barings shifted our investment focus to invest in
syndicated senior secured loans, bonds and other fixed income securities. Since
that time, Barings has transitioned our portfolio to primarily senior secured
private debt investments in well-established middle-market businesses that
operate across a wide range of industries. Barings' existing SEC co-investment
exemptive relief under the 1940 Act (the "Exemptive Relief") permits us and
Barings' affiliated private and SEC-registered funds to co-invest in
Barings-originated loans, which allows Barings to efficiently implement its
senior secured private debt investment strategy for us.
Barings employs fundamental credit analysis, and targets investments in
businesses with relatively low levels of cyclicality and operating risk. The
holding size of each position will generally be dependent upon a number of
factors including total facility size, pricing and structure, and the number of
other lenders in the facility. Barings has experience managing levered vehicles,
both public and private, and will seek to enhance our returns through the use of
leverage with a prudent approach that prioritizes capital preservation. Barings
believes this strategy and approach offers attractive risk/return with lower
volatility given the potential for fewer defaults and greater resilience through
market cycles.
We generate revenues in the form of interest income, primarily from our
investments in debt securities, loan origination and other fees and dividend
income. Fees generated in connection with our debt investments are recognized
over the life of the loan using the effective interest method or, in some cases,
recognized as earned. Our syndicated senior secured loans generally bear
interest between LIBOR plus 300 basis points and LIBOR plus 400 points. Our
senior secured, middle-market, private debt investments generally have terms of
between five and seven years. Our senior secured, middle-market, first lien
private debt investments generally bear interest between LIBOR (or the
applicable currency rate for investments in foreign currencies) plus 450 basis
points and LIBOR plus 650 basis points per annum. Our subordinated
middle-market, private debt investments generally bear interest between LIBOR
(or the applicable currency rate for investments in foreign currencies) plus 700
basis points and LIBOR plus 900 basis points per annum if floating rate, and
between 8% and 15% if fixed rate. From time to time, certain of our investments
may have a form of interest, referred to as payment-in-kind, or PIK, interest,
which is not paid currently but is instead accrued and added to the loan balance
and paid at the end of the term.
As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the weighted average yield on the
principal amount of our outstanding debt investments other than non-accrual debt
investments was approximately 7.2% and 7.1%, respectively. The weighted average
yield on the principal amount all of our outstanding investments (including
equity and equity-linked investments and short-term investments but excluding
non-accrual debt investments) was approximately 6.4% as of both March 31, 2021
and December 31, 2020. The weighted average yield on the principal amount all of
our outstanding investments (including equity and equity-linked investments and
short-term investments) was approximately 6.4% and 6.5% as of March 31, 2021 and
December 31, 2020, respectively.
COVID-19 Developments
The spread of the Coronavirus and the COVID-19 pandemic, and the related effect
on the U.S. and global economies, has had adverse consequences for the business
operations of some of our portfolio companies and has adversely affected, and
threatens to continue to adversely affect, our operations and the operations of
Barings, including with respect to us. Barings has taken proactive steps around
COVID-19 to address the potential impacts on their people, clients, communities
and everyone they come in contact with, directly or through their premises.
Protecting their employees and supporting the communities in which they live and
work is a priority. Barings continues to operate with the majority of employees
globally working remotely while maintaining service levels to our partners and
clients. In the United States, the firm's global headquarters in Charlotte and
the office in Hartford, Connecticut are currently the only offices that are
open. In Europe the regional headquarters in London is open while the majority
of other offices in Europe are currently closed. In Asia, all offices remain
open. Barings return-to-office taskforce continues to plan for the safe return
of employees to all office locations with a target date for a widespread return
of associates to all office locations globally planned for September 2021. This
date is subject to the continued success of the global vaccination program and
reduction in COVID-19 case numbers. Barings' cybersecurity policies are applied
consistently when working remotely or in the office.
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While we have been carefully monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on
our business and the business of our portfolio companies, we have continued to
fund our existing debt commitments. In addition, we have continued to make and
originate, and expect to continue to make and originate, new loans.
We cannot predict the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including its
duration in the United States and worldwide and the magnitude of the economic
impact of the outbreak, including with respect to the travel restrictions,
business closures and other quarantine measures imposed on service providers and
other individuals by various local, state, and federal governmental authorities,
as well as non-U.S. governmental authorities. We are unable to predict the
duration of any business and supply-chain disruptions, the extent to which
COVID-19 will negatively affect our portfolio companies' operating results or
the impact that such disruptions may have on our results of operations and
financial condition. Depending on the duration and extent of the disruption to
the operations of our portfolio companies, certain portfolio companies could
experience financial distress and possibly default on their financial
obligations to us and their other capital providers. Some of our portfolio
companies may significantly curtail business operations, furlough or lay off
employees and terminate service providers, and defer capital expenditures if
subjected to prolonged and severe financial distress, which would likely impair
their business on a permanent basis. These developments would likely result in a
decrease in the value of our investment in any such portfolio company.
We will continue to monitor the situation relating to the COVID-19 pandemic and
guidance from U.S. and international authorities, including federal, state and
local public health authorities and may take additional actions based on their
recommendations. In these circumstances, there may be developments outside our
control requiring us to adjust our plan of operation. As such, given the dynamic
nature of this situation, we cannot reasonably estimate the impacts of COVID-19
on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows in the future.
However, to the extent our portfolio companies are adversely impacted by the
effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, it may have a material adverse impact on our
future net investment income, the fair value of our portfolio investments, our
financial condition and the results of operations and financial condition of our
portfolio companies.
Relationship with Our Adviser, Barings
Our investment adviser, Barings, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Massachusetts
Mutual Life Insurance Company, is a leading global asset management firm and is
registered with the SEC as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940, as amended. Barings' primary investment capabilities include fixed
income, private credit, real estate, equity, and alternative investments.
Subject to the overall supervision of our board of directors (the "Board"),
Barings' Global Private Finance Group ("BGPF") manages our day-to-day
operations, and provides investment advisory and management services to us. BGPF
is part of Barings' $244.2 billion Global Fixed Income Platform that invests in
liquid, private and structured credit. BGPF manages private funds and separately
managed accounts, along with multiple public vehicles.
Among other things, Barings (i) determines the composition of our portfolio, the
nature and timing of the changes therein and the manner of implementing such
changes; (ii) identifies, evaluates and negotiates the structure of the
investments made by us; (iii) executes, closes, services and monitors the
investments that we make; (iv) determines the securities and other assets that
we will purchase, retain or sell; (v) performs due diligence on prospective
portfolio companies and (vi) provides us with such other investment advisory,
research and related services as we may, from time to time, reasonably require
for the investment of our funds.
Under the terms of the Administration Agreement, Barings has agreed to perform
(or oversee, or arrange for, the performance of) the administrative services
necessary for our operation, including, but not limited to, office facilities,
equipment, clerical, bookkeeping and record keeping services at such office
facilities and such other services as Barings, subject to review by the Board,
will from time to time determine to be necessary or useful to perform its
obligations under the Administration Agreement. Barings will also, on our behalf
and subject to the Board's oversight, arrange for the services of, and oversee,
custodians, depositories, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents, other
stockholder servicing agents, accountants, attorneys, underwriters, brokers and
dealers, corporate fiduciaries, insurers, banks and such other persons in any
such other capacity deemed to be necessary or desirable. Barings is responsible
for the financial and other records that we are required to maintain and will
prepare all reports and other materials required to be filed with the SEC or any
other regulatory authority.
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Stockholder Approval of Reduced Asset Coverage Ratio
On July 24, 2018, our stockholders voted at a special meeting of stockholders
(the "2018 Special Meeting") to approve a proposal to authorize us to be subject
to a reduced asset coverage ratio of at least 150% under the 1940 Act. As a
result of the stockholder approval at the 2018 Special Meeting, effective July
25, 2018, our applicable asset coverage ratio under the 1940 Act has been
decreased to 150% from 200%. As a result, we are permitted under the 1940 Act to
incur indebtedness at a level which is more consistent with a portfolio of
senior secured debt. As of March 31, 2021, our asset coverage ratio was 173.8%.
Portfolio Investment Composition
The total value of our investment portfolio was $1,602.1 million as of March 31,
2021, as compared to $1,495.8 million as of December 31, 2020. As of March 31,
2021, we had investments in 150 portfolio companies and two money market funds
with an aggregate cost of $1,588.6 million. As of December 31, 2020, we had
investments in 146 portfolio companies and two money market funds with an
aggregate cost of $1,486.1 million. As of both March 31, 2021 and December 31,
2020, none of our portfolio investments represented greater than 10% of the
total fair value of our investment portfolio.
As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, our investment portfolio consisted
of the following investments:
                                                                      Percentage of                                           Percentage of
                                                                          Total                                                   Total
                                               Cost                     Portfolio                   Fair Value                  Portfolio
March 31, 2021:
Senior debt and 1st lien notes          $ 1,228,983,292                             77  %       $ 1,238,178,055                             77  %
Subordinated debt and 2nd lien notes        150,273,105                             10              150,597,961                              9
Structured products                          23,163,888                              1               26,153,607                              2
Equity shares                                42,543,214                              3               39,617,746                              2
Equity warrants                               1,235,383                              -                1,434,309                              -
Investment in joint ventures / PE fund       68,782,532                              4               72,576,383                              5
Short-term investments                       73,569,174                              5               73,565,676                              5
                                        $ 1,588,550,588                            100  %       $ 1,602,123,737                            100  %
December 31, 2020:
Senior debt and 1st lien notes          $ 1,167,436,742                             79  %       $ 1,171,250,512                             79  %
Subordinated debt and 2nd lien notes        137,776,808                              9              138,767,120                              9
Structured products                          30,071,808                              2               32,508,845                              2
Equity shares                                44,693,645                              3               44,651,114                              3
Equity warrants                               1,235,383                              -                1,300,197                              -
Investment in joint ventures / PE fund       39,282,532                              3               41,759,922                              3
Short-term investments                       65,558,227                              4               65,558,227                              4
                                        $ 1,486,055,145                            100  %       $ 1,495,795,937                            100  %


Investment Activity
During the three months ended March 31, 2021, we made 18 new investments
totaling $172.2 million, made investments in existing portfolio companies
totaling $73.2 million, made one new investment in a joint venture equity
portfolio company totaling $4.5 million and made additional investments in
existing joint venture equity portfolio companies totaling $25.0 million. We had
six loans repaid at par totaling $26.2 million and received $6.0 million of
portfolio company principal payments. In addition, we sold $57.1 million of
loans, recognizing a net realized gain on these transactions of $2.4 million,
and sold $94.7 million of middle-market portfolio company debt investments to
one of our joint ventures and realized a gain on these transactions of $0.5
million. Lastly, we received proceeds related to the sale of an equity
investment totaling $5.9 million and recognized a net realized loss on such sale
totaling $0.1 million.
During the three months ended March 31, 2020, we made 30 new investments
totaling $111.2 million and made investments in existing portfolio companies
totaling $20.9 million. We had nine loans repaid at par totaling total $41.1
million, received $3.0 million of portfolio company principal payments. In
addition, we sold $39.6 million of syndicated senior secured loans, recognizing
a net realized loss on these transactions of $0.2 million and sold $30.8 million
of middle-market portfolio company debt investments to our joint venture.
Lastly, we received $0.2 million in escrow distributions from two legacy
portfolio companies, which were recognized as realized gains.
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Total portfolio investment activity for the three months ended March 31, 2021
and 2020 was as follows:
                              Senior Debt                                                                                                             Investments in
Three Months Ended            and 1st Lien          Subordinated Debt           Structured              Equity                                       Joint Ventures /           Short-term
March 31, 2021:                  Notes              and 2nd Lien Notes           Products               Shares              Equity Warrants              PE Fund               Investments                Total
Fair value, beginning of
period                     $ 1,171,250,512          $   138,767,120          $  32,508,845          $ 44,651,114          $      1,300,197          $    41,759,922          $  65,558,227          $ 1,495,795,937
New investments                227,056,942               14,477,877                      -             3,872,210                         -               29,500,000            198,550,029              473,457,058
Proceeds from sales of
investments                   (144,892,665)                       -             (6,823,471)           (5,971,996)                        -                        -           (190,541,780)            (348,229,912)
Loan origination fees
received                        (4,176,205)                (402,163)                     -                     -                         -                        -                      -               (4,578,368)
Principal repayments
received                       (21,392,290)             (10,120,108)              (752,526)                    -                         -                        -                      -              (32,264,924)
Payment-in-kind interest
earned                             828,659                7,007,695                      -                     -                         -                        -                      -                   7,836,354
Accretion of loan
discounts                          645,409                1,318,620                 15,758                     -                         -                        -                      -                1,979,787
Accretion of deferred loan
origination revenue              1,269,802                  211,236                      -                     -                         -                        -                      -                1,481,038
Realized gain (loss)                2,206,896                    3,140                652,320              (50,645)                         -                        -                  2,698             2,814,409
Unrealized appreciation
(depreciation)                      5,380,995                (665,456)                552,681           (2,882,937)                   134,112                1,316,461                (3,498)             3,832,358

Fair value, end of period $ 1,238,178,055 $ 150,597,961

 $  26,153,607          $ 39,617,746          $      1,434,309          $    72,576,383          $  73,565,676          $ 1,602,123,737


                             Senior Debt           Subordinated Debt
Three Months Ended           and 1st Lien            and 2nd Lien            Structured              Equity             Investment in            Short-term
March 31, 2020:                 Notes                    Notes                Products               Shares             Joint Venture           Investments                Total
Fair value, beginning of
period                    $ 1,050,863,370          $   15,220,969          $          -          $   760,716          $   10,229,813          $  96,568,939          $ 1,173,643,807
New investments               118,056,710               2,160,082            11,518,233              403,774                       -            221,916,363          $   354,055,162
Proceeds from sales of
investments                   (70,448,795)                      -                     -             (152,467)                      -           (218,025,496)         $  (288,626,758)
Loan origination fees
received                       (2,684,615)                (19,808)                    -                    -                       -                      -          $    (2,704,423)
Principal repayments
received                      (44,108,598)                      -                     -                    -                       -                      -          $   (44,108,598)
Accretion of loan
discounts                         180,698                   4,465                 3,239                    -                       -                      -          $       188,402
Accretion of deferred
loan origination revenue          649,654                   8,351                     -                    -                       -                      -          $       658,005
Realized gain (loss)             (310,445)                      -                     -              152,467                       -                      -          $      (157,978)
Unrealized depreciation      (113,033,296)             (1,389,918)           (2,816,526)            (121,316)             (3,833,223)                   

- $ (121,194,279) Fair value, end of period $ 939,164,683 $ 15,984,141 $ 8,704,946 $ 1,043,174 $ 6,396,590 $ 100,459,806 $ 1,071,753,340




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Non-Accrual Assets
Generally, when interest and/or principal payments on a loan become past due, or
if we otherwise do not expect the borrower to be able to service its debt and
other obligations, we will place the loan on non-accrual status and will
generally cease recognizing interest income on that loan for financial reporting
purposes until all principal and interest have been brought current through
payment or due to a restructuring such that the interest income is deemed to be
collectible. As of March 31, 2021, we had no non-accrual assets. As of December
31, 2020, the fair value of our non-accrual asset was $3.0 million, which
comprised 0.2% of the total fair value of our portfolio, and the cost of our
non-accrual asset was $3.0 million, which comprised 0.2% of the total cost of
our portfolio.
Results of Operations
Comparison of the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020
Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 were as
follows:
                                                                       Three Months           Three Months
                                                                           Ended                  Ended
                                                                         March 31,              March 31,
                                                                           2021                   2020

Total investment income                                               $ 

30,593,231 $ 18,679,598



Total operating expenses                                                16,237,135              11,385,529
Net investment income                                                   14,356,096               7,294,069
Income taxes, including excise tax benefit                                 (18,038)                      -
Net investment income after taxes                                       14,374,134               7,294,069

Net realized gains (losses)                                              1,839,580                (302,372)

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)                               6,274,155            (119,396,053)

Loss on extinguishment of debt                                                   -                (137,390)
Benefit from taxes                                                             410                  19,999

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations $ 22,488,279 $ (112,521,747)




Net increases or decreases in net assets resulting from operations can vary
substantially from period to period due to various factors, including
recognition of realized gains and losses and unrealized appreciation and
depreciation. As a result, quarterly comparisons of net changes in net assets
resulting from operations may not be meaningful.
Investment Income
                                    Three Months      Three Months
                                       Ended             Ended
                                     March 31,         March 31,
                                        2021              2020
Investment income:

Interest income                    $ 25,214,241      $ 17,674,402

Dividend income                          71,500                 -

Fee and other income                  2,133,175           960,993

Payment-in-kind interest income       3,173,787            43,572
Interest income from cash                   528               631
Total investment income            $ 30,593,231      $ 18,679,598


The change in investment income for the three months ended March 31, 2021, as
compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020, was primarily due to an
increase in the average size of our portfolio. The amount of our outstanding
debt investments was $1,451.9 million as of March 31, 2021, as compared to
$1,119.9 million as of March 31, 2020, which increase is in part due to the
acquisition of investment assets in the MVC Acquisition. The weighted average
yield on the principal amount of our outstanding debt investments was 7.2% as of
March 31, 2021, as compared to 5.8% as of March 31, 2020.
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Operating Expenses
                                                 Three Months      Three Months
                                                    Ended             Ended
                                                  March 31,         March 31,
                                                     2021              2020

          Operating expenses:

Interest and other financing fees $ 7,284,709 $ 6,004,133


          Base management fees                     3,929,251         

3,912,373


          Incentive management fees                2,721,741                 -

          Compensation expenses                            -            48,410

General and administrative expenses 2,301,434 1,420,613


          Total operating expenses              $ 16,237,135      $ 

11,385,529




Interest and Other Financing Fees
Interest and other financing fees during the three months ended March 31, 2021
were attributable to borrowings under the February 2019 Credit Facility, the
August 2025 Notes, the November Notes and the February Notes (each as defined
below under "Liquidity and Capital Resources"). Interest and other financing
fees during the three months ended March 31, 2020 were attributable to
borrowings under Barings BDC Senior Funding I, LLC's credit facility entered
into in August 2018 with Bank of America, N.A. (the "August 2018 Credit
Facility"), the February 2019 Credit Facility and our May 2019 $449.3 million
term debt securitization (the "Debt Securitization"). The increase in interest
and other financing fees for the three months ended March 31, 2021 as compared
to the three months ended March 31, 2020, was primarily attributable to the
issuance of the August 2025 Notes, the November Notes and the February Notes and
increased borrowings under the February 2019 Credit Facility, partially offset
by the repayment of the Debt Securitization and the repayment of the borrowings
under the August 2018 Credit Facility.
Base Management Fees
Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement (and, prior to
January 1, 2021, under the terms of the Original Advisory Agreement), we pay
Barings a base management fee (the "Base Management Fee"), quarterly in arrears
on a calendar quarter basis. The Base Management Fee is calculated based on the
average value of our gross assets, excluding cash and cash equivalents, at the
end of the two most recently completed calendar quarters prior to the quarter
for which such fees are being calculated. Base Management Fees for any partial
month or quarter are appropriately pro-rated. See Note 2 to our Unaudited
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the terms
of the Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement (and, prior to January 1, 2021,
the terms of the Original Advisory Agreement) and the fee arrangements
thereunder. For both the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020,
the amount of Base Management Fee incurred was approximately $3.9 million. For
the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020, the Base Management
Fee rate was 1.250% and 1.375%, respectively. Although the Base Management Fee
rate decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 versus March 31, 2020,
the average value of gross assets increased from $1,138.1 million as of the end
of the two most recently completed calendar quarters prior to March 31, 2020 to
$1,257.4 million as of the end of the two most recently completed calendar
quarters prior to March 31, 2021, which resulted in a slight increase in fees
between periods.
Incentive Fee (and, prior to January 1, 2021, under the terms of the Original
Advisory Agreement)
Under the Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement (and, prior to January 1,
2021, under the terms of the Original Advisory Agreement), we pay Barings an
incentive fee. A portion of the incentive fee is based on our income and a
portion is based on our capital gains. The income-based fee will be determined
and paid quarterly in arrears based on the amount by which (x) the aggregate
pre-incentive fee net investment income in respect of the current calendar
quarter and the eleven preceding calendar quarters beginning with the calendar
quarter that commences on or after January 1, 2021, as the case may be (or the
appropriate portion thereof in the case of any of our first eleven calendar
quarters that commences on or after January 1, 2021) exceeds (y) the hurdle
amount as calculated for the same period. See Note 2 to our Unaudited
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the terms
of the Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement and the fee arrangements
thereunder. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the amount of
income-based fee incurred was $2.7 million.
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General and Administrative Expenses
We entered into the Administration Agreement with Barings in August 2018. Under
the terms of the Administration Agreement, Barings performs (or oversees, or
arranges for, the performance of) the administrative services necessary for our
operations. We will reimburse Barings for the costs and expenses incurred by it
in performing its obligations and providing personnel and facilities under the
Administration Agreement in an amount to be negotiated and mutually agreed to by
us and Barings quarterly in arrears; provided that the agreed-upon quarterly
expense amount will not exceed the amount of expenses that would otherwise be
reimbursable by us under the Administration Agreement for the applicable
quarterly period, and Barings will not be entitled to the recoupment of any
amounts in excess of the agreed-upon quarterly expense amount. See Note 2 to our
Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding
the Administration Agreement. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the
amount of administration expense incurred and invoiced by Barings for expenses
was approximately $0.5 million. For the three months ended March 31, 2020, the
amount of administration expense incurred and invoiced by the Adviser for
expenses was approximately $0.4 million. In addition to expenses incurred under
the Administration Agreement, general and administrative expenses include Board
fees, D&O insurance costs, as well as legal and accounting expenses.
Net Realized Gains (Losses)
Net realized gains (losses) during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and
2020 were as follows:
                                                    Three Months      Three Months
                                                       Ended              Ended
                                                     March 31,          March 31,
                                                        2021              2020

Net realized gain (losses):

Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments $ 2,891,040 $ (157,978)


      Affiliate investments                             (76,631)           

-

Net realized gains (losses) on investments 2,814,409 (157,978)


      Foreign currency transactions                    (974,829)         

(144,394)


      Net realized gains (losses)                  $  1,839,580      $   

(302,372)




In the three months ended March 31, 2021, we recognized net realized gains
totaling $1.8 million, which consisted primarily of a net gain on our loan
portfolio of $2.8 million partially offset by a net loss on foreign currency
transactions of $1.0 million. In the three months ended March 31, 2020, we
recognized net realized losses totaling $0.3 million, which consisted primarily
of a net loss on our loan portfolio of $0.3 million and a net loss on foreign
currency transactions of $0.1 million, partially offset by $0.2 million in
escrow distributions we received from two legacy portfolio companies, which were
recognized as realized gains.
Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation)
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) during the three months ended
March 31, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:
                                                                        Three Months           Three Months
                                                                            Ended                  Ended
                                                                          March 31,              March 31,
                                                                            2021                   2020

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation):
Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments                                $  5,357,095          $ (117,361,056)
Affiliate investments                                                     2,444,697              (3,833,223)
Control investments                                                      (3,969,434)                      -
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments                 3,832,358            (121,194,279)
Credit support agreement                                                 (1,600,000)                      -
Foreign currency transactions                                             4,041,797               1,798,226
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)                             $  

6,274,155 $ (119,396,053)




During the three months ended March 31, 2021, we recorded net unrealized
appreciation totaling $6.3 million, consisting of net unrealized appreciation on
our current portfolio of $6.4 million and unrealized appreciation related to
foreign currency transactions of $4.0 million, net of unrealized depreciation of
$1.6 million on the credit support agreement with Barings and net of unrealized
depreciation reclassification adjustments of $2.6 million related to the net
realized gains on the sales / repayments of certain investments. The net
unrealized appreciation on our current portfolio of $6.4 million was driven
primarily by broad market moves for investments of $13.8 million, partially
offset by depreciation from the credit or fundamental performance of investments
of $3.0 million and the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on investments
of $4.4 million.
During the three months ended March 31, 2020, we recorded net unrealized
depreciation totaling $119.4 million, consisting of net unrealized depreciation
on our current portfolio of $121.6 million, and partially offset by net
unrealized
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appreciation related to foreign currency transactions of $1.8 million and net
unrealized appreciation reclassification adjustments of $0.4 million related to
the net realized losses on the sales / repayments of certain syndicated secured
loans. The net unrealized depreciation on the Company's current portfolio of
$121.6 million was driven by broad market moves for liquid syndicated secured
loans and structured product investments totaling $82.6 million, broad market
moves for middle-market debt investments of $25.5 million, the credit or
fundamental performance of middle-market debt investments totaling $8.2 million,
the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on middle-market debt investments
of $1.3 million, and net unrealized depreciation on the Company's total equity
and joint venture investments of $4.0 million.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents on hand, our short-term
investments, our available borrowing capacity under our $800 million senior
secured revolving credit facility with ING Capital LLC (as amended, restated and
otherwise modified from time to time, (the "February 2019 Credit Facility") and
the August 2020 NPA (as defined below under "Financing Transactions") and our
anticipated cash flows from operations will be adequate to meet our cash needs
for our daily operations for at least the next twelve months. This "Liquidity
and Capital Resources" section should be read in conjunction with "COVID-19
Developments" above, as well as with the notes to our Unaudited Consolidated
Financial Statements.
Cash Flows
For the three months ended March 31, 2021, we experienced a net decrease in cash
in the amount of $52.0 million. During that period, our operating activities
used $85.1 million in cash, consisting primarily of purchases of portfolio
investments of $276.5 million and purchases of short-term investments of $198.6
million, partially offset by proceeds from sales of portfolio investments
totaling $188.2 million and sales of short-term investments of $190.5 million.
In addition, our financing activities provided $33.1 million of cash, consisting
of net proceeds of $149.8 million from the issuance of the February Notes (as
defined below under "Financing Transactions"), partially offset by net
repayments under the February 2019 Credit Facility of $104.3 million and
dividends paid in the amount of $12.4 million. As of March 31, 2021, we had
$40.5 million of cash and foreign currencies on hand.
For the three months ended March 31, 2020, we experienced a net decrease in cash
in the amount of $14.5 million. During that period, our operating activities
provided $36.0 million in cash, consisting primarily of proceeds from sales of
portfolio investments totaling $155.9 million and sales of short-term
investments of $218.0 million, partially offset by purchases of portfolio
investments of $123.2 million and purchases of short-term investments of $221.9
million. In addition, our financing activities used $50.5 million of cash,
consisting primarily of net repayments under the August 2018 Credit Facility and
the February 2019 Credit Facility of $10.9 million, repayments of the Debt
Securitization of $27.0 million, share repurchases of $4.8 million and dividends
paid in the amount of $7.8 million. As of March 31, 2020, we had $7.5 million of
cash and foreign currencies on hand.
Financing Transactions
February 2019 Credit Facility
On February 21, 2019, we entered into the February 2019 Credit Facility (as
subsequently amended in December 2019), with ING Capital LLC ("ING"), as
administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto. The initial commitments
under the February 2019 Credit Facility total $800.0 million. The February 2019
Credit Facility has an accordion feature that allows for an increase in the
total commitments by up to $400.0 million, subject to certain conditions and the
satisfaction of specified financial covenants. We can borrow foreign currencies
directly under the February 2019 Credit Facility. The February 2019 Credit
Facility, which is structured as a revolving credit facility, is secured
primarily by a material portion of our assets and guaranteed by certain of our
subsidiaries. Following the termination of the August 2018 Credit Facility on
June 30, 2020, Barings BDC Senior Funding I, LLC became a subsidiary guarantor
and its assets will secure the February 2019 Credit Facility. The revolving
period of the February 2019 Credit Facility ends on February 21, 2023, followed
by a one-year repayment period with a final maturity date of February 21, 2024.
Borrowings under the February 2019 Credit Facility bear interest, subject to our
election, on a per annum basis equal to (i) the applicable base rate plus 1.00%
(or 1.25% if we no longer maintain an investment grade credit rating), (ii) the
applicable LIBOR rate plus 2.00% (or 2.25% if we no longer maintain an
investment grade credit rating), (iii) for borrowings denominated in certain
foreign currencies other than Australian dollars, the applicable currency rate
for the foreign currency as defined in the credit agreement plus 2.00% (or 2.25%
if we no longer maintain an investment grade credit rating), or (iv) for
borrowings denominated in Australian dollars, the applicable Australian dollars
Screen Rate, plus 2.20% (or 2.45% if we no longer maintain an investment grade
credit rating). The applicable base rate is equal to the greatest of (i) the
prime rate, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, (iii) the Overnight Bank
Funding Rate plus 0.5%, (iv) the adjusted three-month applicable currency rate
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plus 1.0% and (v) 1.0%. The applicable LIBOR and currency rates depend on the
currency and term of the draw under the February 2019 Credit Facility, and
cannot be less than zero.
In addition, we pay a commitment fee of (i) 0.5% per annum on undrawn amounts if
the unused portion of the February 2019 Credit Facility is greater than
two-thirds of total commitments or (ii) 0.375% per annum on undrawn amounts if
the unused portion of the February 2019 Credit Facility is equal to or less than
two-thirds of total commitments. In connection with entering into the February
2019 Credit Facility, we incurred financing fees of approximately $6.4 million,
which will be amortized over the life of the February 2019 Credit Facility.
As of March 31, 2021, we were in compliance with all covenants under the
February 2019 Credit Facility and had U.S. dollar borrowings of $357.0 million
outstanding under the February 2019 Credit Facility with a weighted average
interest rate of 2.125% (weighted average one month LIBOR of 0.125%), borrowings
denominated in Swedish kronas of 12.8kr million ($1.5 million U.S. dollars) with
an interest rate of 2.000% (one month STIBOR of 0.000%), borrowings denominated
in British pounds sterling of £85.3 million ($117.7 million U.S. dollars) with
an interest rate of 2.063% (one month GBP LIBOR of 0.063%), borrowings
denominated in Australian dollars of A$36.6 million ($27.9 million U.S. dollars)
with an interest rate of 2.250% (one month AUD Screen Rate of 0.050%) and
borrowings denominated in Euros of €91.1 million ($107.1 million U.S. dollars)
with an interest rate of 2.000% (one month EURIBOR of 0.000%). The borrowings
denominated in foreign currencies were translated into U.S. dollars based on the
spot rate at the relevant balance sheet date. The impact resulting from changes
in foreign exchange rates on the February 2019 Credit Facility borrowings is
included in "Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) - foreign currency
transactions" in the our Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The fair values of the borrowings outstanding under the February 2019 Credit
Facility are based on a market yield approach and current interest rates, which
are Level 3 inputs to the market yield model. As of March 31, 2021, the total
fair value of the borrowings outstanding under the February 2019 Credit Facility
was $611.1 million. See Note 5 to our Unaudited Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information regarding the February 2019 Credit
Facility.
August 2025 Notes
On August 3, 2020, we entered into a Note Purchase Agreement (the "August 2020
NPA") with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company governing the issuance of
(1) $50.0 million in aggregate principal amount of Series A senior unsecured
notes due August 2025 (the "Series A Notes due 2025") with a fixed interest rate
of 4.66% per year, and (2) up to $50.0 million in aggregate principal amount of
additional senior unsecured notes due August 2025 with a fixed interest rate per
year to be determined (the "Additional Notes" and, collectively with the Series
A Notes due 2025, the "August 2025 Notes"), in each case, to qualified
institutional investors in a private placement. An aggregate principal amount of
$25.0 million of the Series A Notes due 2025 was issued on September 24, 2020
and an aggregate principal amount of $25.0 million of the Series A Notes due
2025 was issued on September 29, 2020, both of which will mature on August 4,
2025 unless redeemed, purchased or prepaid prior to such date by us in
accordance with their terms. Interest on the August 2025 Notes will be due
semiannually in March and September, beginning in March 2021. In addition, we
are obligated to offer to repay the August 2025 Notes at par (plus accrued and
unpaid interest to, but not including, the date of prepayment) if certain change
in control events occur. Subject to the terms of the August 2020 NPA, we may
redeem the August 2025 Notes in whole or in part at any time or from time to
time at our option at par plus accrued interest to the prepayment date and, if
redeemed on or before November 3, 2024, a make-whole premium. The August 2025
Notes are guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries, and are our general
unsecured obligations that rank pari passu with all outstanding and future
unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by us.
On November 4, 2020, we amended the August 2020 NPA to reduce the aggregate
principal amount of unissued Additional Notes from $50.0 million to $25.0
million.
The August 2020 NPA contains certain representations and warranties, and various
covenants and reporting requirements customary for senior unsecured notes issued
in a private placement, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative
covenants such as information reporting, maintenance of our status as a BDC
within the meaning of the 1940 Act, certain restrictions with respect to
transactions with affiliates, fundamental changes, changes of line of business,
permitted liens, investments and restricted payments, minimum shareholders'
equity, maximum net debt to equity ratio and minimum asset coverage ratio. The
August 2020 NPA also contains customary events of default with customary cure
and notice periods, including, without limitation, nonpayment, incorrect
representation in any material respect, breach of covenant, cross-default under
our other indebtedness or that of our subsidiary guarantors, certain judgements
and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy. Upon the occurrence of an event of
default, the holders of at least 66-2/3% in principal amount of the August 2025
Notes at the time outstanding may declare all August 2025 Notes then outstanding
to be immediately due and payable. As of March 31, 2021, we were in compliance
with all covenants under the August 2020 NPA.
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The August 2025 Notes were offered in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The August 2025 Notes
have not and will not be registered under the Securities Act or any state
securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold in the
United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not
subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act, as applicable.
As of March 31, 2021, the fair value of the outstanding August 2025 Notes was
$50.0 million. The fair value determination of the August 2025 Notes was based
on a market yield approach and current interest rates, which are Level 3 inputs
to the market yield model.
November Notes
On November 4, 2020, we entered into a Note Purchase Agreement (the "November
2020 NPA") governing the issuance of (1) $62.5 million in aggregate principal
amount of Series B senior unsecured notes due November 2025 (the "Series B
Notes") with a fixed interest rate of 4.25% per year and (2) $112.5 million in
aggregate principal amount of Series C senior unsecured notes due November 2027
(the "Series C Notes," and, collectively with the Series B Notes, the "November
Notes") with a fixed interest rate of 4.75% per year, in each case, to qualified
institutional investors in a private placement. Each stated interest rate is
subject to a step up of (x) 0.75% per year, to the extent the applicable
November Notes do not satisfy certain investment grade conditions and/or (y)
1.50% per year, to the extent the ratio of our secured debt to total assets
exceeds specified thresholds, measured as of each fiscal quarter end. The
November Notes were delivered and paid for on November 5, 2020.
The Series B Notes will mature on November 4, 2025, and the Series C Notes will
mature on November 4, 2027 unless redeemed, purchased or prepaid prior to such
date by us in accordance with their terms. Interest on the November Notes will
be due semiannually in May and November, beginning in May 2021. In addition, we
are obligated to offer to repay the November Notes at par (plus accrued and
unpaid interest to, but not including, the date of prepayment) if certain change
in control events occur. Subject to the terms of the November 2020 NPA, we may
redeem the Series B Notes and the Series C Notes in whole or in part at any time
or from time to time at our option at par plus accrued interest to the
prepayment date and, if redeemed on or before May 4, 2025, with respect to the
Series B Notes, or on or before May 4, 2027, with respect to the Series C Notes,
a make-whole premium. The November Notes are guaranteed by certain of our
subsidiaries, and are our general unsecured obligations that rank pari passu
with all outstanding and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by
us.
The November 2020 NPA contains certain representations and warranties, and
various covenants and reporting requirements customary for senior unsecured
notes issued in a private placement, including, without limitation, affirmative
and negative covenants such as information reporting, maintenance of our status
as a BDC within the meaning of the 1940 Act, certain restrictions with respect
to transactions with affiliates, fundamental changes, changes of line of
business, permitted liens, investments and restricted payments, minimum
shareholders' equity, maximum net debt to equity ratio and minimum asset
coverage ratio. The November 2020 NPA also contains customary events of default
with customary cure and notice periods, including, without limitation,
nonpayment, incorrect representation in any material respect, breach of
covenant, cross-default under our other indebtedness or that of our subsidiary
guarantors, certain judgements and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy.
Upon the occurrence of an event of default, the holders of at least 66-2/3% in
principal amount of the November Notes at the time outstanding may declare all
November Notes then outstanding to be immediately due and payable. As of
March 31, 2021, we were in compliance with all covenants under the November 2020
NPA.
The November Notes were offered in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities
Act. The November Notes have not and will not be registered under the Securities
Act or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered
or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a
transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act,
as applicable.
As of March 31, 2021, the fair value of the outstanding Series B Notes and the
Series C Notes was $62.5 million and $112.5 million, respectively. The fair
value determinations of the Series B Notes and Series C Notes were based on a
market yield approach and current interest rates, which are Level 3 inputs to
the market yield model.
February Notes
On February 25, 2021, we entered into a Note Purchase Agreement (the "February
2021 NPA") governing the issuance of (1) $80.0 million in aggregate principal
amount of Series D senior unsecured notes due February 26, 2026 (the "Series D
Notes") with a fixed interest rate of 3.41% per year and (2) $70.0 million in
aggregate principal amount of Series E senior unsecured notes due February 26,
2028 (the "Series E Notes" and, collectively with the Series D Notes, the
"February Notes") with a fixed interest rate of 4.06% per year, in each case, to
qualified institutional investors in a private placement. Each stated interest
rate is subject to a step up of (x) 0.75% per year, to the extent the applicable
February Notes do not satisfy certain
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investment grade rating conditions and/or (y) 1.50% per year, to the extent the
ratio of our secured debt to total assets exceeds specified thresholds, measured
as of each fiscal quarter end. The February Notes were delivered and paid for on
February 26, 2021.
The Series D Notes will mature on February 26, 2026, and the Series E Notes will
mature on February 26, 2028 unless redeemed, purchased or prepaid prior to such
date by us in accordance with the terms of the February 2021 NPA. Interest on
the February Notes will be due semiannually in February and August of each year,
beginning in August 2021. In addition, we are obligated to offer to repay the
February Notes at par (plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including,
the date of prepayment) if certain change in control events occur. Subject to
the terms of the February 2021 NPA, we may redeem the Series D Notes and the
Series E Notes in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our
option at par plus accrued interest to the prepayment date and, if redeemed on
or before August 26, 2025, with respect to the Series D Notes, or on or before
August 26, 2027, with respect to the Series E Notes, a make-whole premium. The
February Notes are guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries, and are our
general unsecured obligations that rank pari passu with all outstanding and
future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by us.
The February 2021 NPA contains certain representations and warranties, and
various covenants and reporting requirements customary for senior unsecured
notes issued in a private placement, including, without limitation, information
reporting, maintenance of our status as a BDC within the meaning of the 1940
Act, and certain restrictions with respect to transactions with affiliates,
fundamental changes, changes of line of business, permitted liens, investments
and restricted payments. In addition, the February 2021 NPA contains the
following financial covenants: (a) maintaining a minimum obligors' net worth,
measured as of each fiscal quarter end; (b) not permitting our asset coverage
ratio, as of the date of the incurrence of any debt for borrowed money or the
making of any cash dividend to shareholders, to be less than the statutory
minimum then applicable to us under the 1940 Act; and (c) not permitting our net
debt to equity ratio to exceed 2.0x, measured as of each fiscal quarter end.
The February 2021 NPA also contains customary events of default with customary
cure and notice periods, including, without limitation, nonpayment, incorrect
representation in any material respect, breach of covenant, cross-default under
other indebtedness or that of our subsidiary guarantors, certain judgements and
orders, and certain events of bankruptcy. Upon the occurrence of certain events
of default, the holders of at least 66-2/3% in principal amount of the February
Notes at the time outstanding may declare all February Notes then outstanding to
be immediately due and payable. As of March 31, 2021, we were in compliance with
all covenants under the February 2021 NPA.
The February Notes were offered in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities
Act. The February Notes have not and will not be registered under the Securities
Act or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered
or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a
transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act,
as applicable.
As of March 31, 2021, the fair value of the outstanding Series D Notes and the
Series E Notes was $80.0 million and $70.0 million, respectively. The fair value
determinations of the Series D Notes and Series E Notes were based on a market
yield approach and current interest rates, which are Level 3 inputs to the
market yield model.
Share Repurchases
On February 27, 2020, the Board approved an open-market share repurchase program
for the 2020 fiscal year (the "2020 Share Repurchase Program"). Under the 2020
Share Repurchase Program, we were authorized during fiscal year 2020 to
repurchase up to a maximum of 5.0% of the amount of shares outstanding as of
February 27, 2020 if shares traded below NAV per share, subject to liquidity and
regulatory constraints.
Purchases under the 2020 Share Repurchase Program were made in open-market
transactions and included transactions being executed by a broker selected us
that had been delegated the authority to repurchase shares on our behalf in the
open market in accordance with applicable rules under the Exchange Act,
including Rules 10b5-1 and 10b-18 thereunder, and pursuant to, and under the
terms and limitations of, the 2020 Share Repurchase Program. During the three
months ended March 31, 2020, we repurchased a total of 661.981 shares of our
common stock in the open market under the 2020 Share Repurchase Program at an
average price of $7.23 per share, including broker commissions.
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In addition, in connection with the closing of the MVC Acquisition on December
23, 2020, we committed to make open-market purchases of shares of our common
stock in an aggregate amount of up to $15.0 million at then-current market
prices at any time shares trade below 90% of our then most recently disclosed
NAV per share. Any repurchases pursuant to the authorized program will occur
during the 12-month period commencing upon the filing of this quarterly report
on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 and will be made in accordance
with applicable legal, contractual and regulatory requirements.
Distributions to Stockholders
We intend to pay quarterly distributions to our stockholders out of assets
legally available for distribution. We have adopted a dividend reinvestment plan
("DRIP") that provides for reinvestment of dividends on behalf of our
stockholders, unless a stockholder elects to receive cash. As a result, when we
declare a dividend, stockholders who have not opted out of the DRIP will have
their dividends automatically reinvested in shares of our common stock, rather
than receiving cash dividends.
We have elected to be treated as a RIC under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended, or the Code, and intend to make the required distributions to our
stockholders as specified therein. In order to maintain our tax treatment as a
RIC and to obtain RIC tax benefits, we must meet certain minimum distribution,
source-of-income and asset diversification requirements. If such requirements
are met, then we are generally required to pay income taxes only on the portion
of our taxable income and gains we do not distribute (actually or
constructively) and certain built-in gains. We have historically met our minimum
distribution requirements and continually monitor our distribution requirements
with the goal of ensuring compliance with the Code. We can offer no assurance
that we will achieve results that will permit the payment of any level of cash
distributions and our ability to make distributions will be limited by the asset
coverage requirement and related provisions under the 1940 Act and contained in
any applicable indenture and related supplements. In addition, in order to
satisfy the annual distribution requirement applicable to RICs, we may declare a
significant portion of our dividends in shares of our common stock instead of in
cash. As long as a portion of such dividend is paid in cash (which portion may
be as low as 20% of such dividend under published guidance from the Internal
Revenue Service) and certain requirements are met, the entire distribution will
be treated as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, a
stockholder generally would be subject to tax on 100% of the fair market value
of the dividend on the date the dividend is received by the stockholder in the
same manner as a cash dividend, even though most of the dividend was paid in
shares of our common stock.
The minimum distribution requirements applicable to RICs require us to
distribute to our stockholders each year at least 90% of our investment company
taxable income, or ICTI, as defined by the Code. Depending on the level of ICTI
and net capital gain, if any, earned in a tax year, we may choose to carry
forward ICTI in excess of current year distributions into the next tax year and
pay a 4% U.S. federal excise tax on such excess. Any such carryover ICTI must be
distributed before the end of the next tax year through a dividend declared
prior to filing the final tax return related to the year which generated such
ICTI.
ICTI generally differs from net investment income for financial reporting
purposes due to temporary and permanent differences in the recognition of income
and expenses. We may be required to recognize ICTI in certain circumstances in
which we do not receive cash. For example, if we hold debt obligations that are
treated under applicable tax rules as having original issue discount (such as
debt instruments issued with warrants), we must include in ICTI each year a
portion of the original issue discount that accrues over the life of the
obligation, regardless of whether cash representing such income is received by
us in the same taxable year. We may also have to include in ICTI other amounts
that we have not yet received in cash, such as (i) PIK interest income and (ii)
interest income from investments that have been classified as non-accrual for
financial reporting purposes. Interest income on non-accrual investments is not
recognized for financial reporting purposes, but generally is recognized in
ICTI. Because any original issue discount or other amounts accrued will be
included in our ICTI for the year of accrual, we may be required to make a
distribution to our stockholders in order to satisfy the minimum distribution
requirements, even though we will not have received and may not ever receive any
corresponding cash amount. ICTI also excludes net unrealized appreciation or
depreciation, as investment gains or losses are not included in taxable income
until they are realized.
Recent Developments
Subsequent to March 31, 2021, we made approximately $156.3 million of new
commitments, of which $106.4 million closed and funded. The $106.4 million of
investments consist of $82.6 million of first lien senior secured debt
investments, $20.9 million of second lien senior secured and subordinated debt
investments and a $2.9 million equity investments with a combined weighted
average yield on debt investments of 6.7%. In addition, we funded $5.1 million
of previously committed delayed draw term loans.
On May 6, 2021, the Board declared a quarterly distribution of $0.20 per share
payable on June 16, 2021 to holders of record as of June 9, 2021.
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Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates
The preparation of our unaudited financial statements in accordance with U.S.
GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect
the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the periods
covered by such financial statements. We have identified investment valuation
and revenue recognition as our most critical accounting estimates. On an ongoing
basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to the matters
described below. These estimates are based on the information that is currently
available to us and on various other assumptions that we believe to be
reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ materially from
those estimates under different assumptions or conditions. A discussion of our
critical accounting policies follows.
Investment Valuation
The most significant estimate inherent in the preparation of our financial
statements is the valuation of investments and the related amounts of unrealized
appreciation and depreciation of investments recorded. We have a valuation
policy, as well as established and documented processes and methodologies for
determining the fair values of portfolio company investments on a recurring (at
least quarterly) basis in accordance with the 1940 Act and FASB ASC Topic 820,
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, or ASC Topic 820. Our current valuation
policy and processes were established by Barings and have been approved by the
Board.
Under ASC Topic 820, fair value is the price that would be received to sell an
asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between a
willing buyer and a willing seller at the measurement date. For our portfolio
securities, fair value is generally the amount that we might reasonably expect
to receive upon the current sale of the security. The fair value measurement
assumes that the sale occurs in the principal market for the security, or in the
absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the security.
If no market for the security exists or if we do not have access to the
principal market, the security should be valued based on the sale occurring in a
hypothetical market.
Under ASC Topic 820, there are three levels of valuation inputs, as follows:
Level 1 Inputs - include quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for
identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 Inputs - include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in
active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability,
either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial
instrument.
Level 3 Inputs - include inputs that are unobservable and significant to the
fair value measurement.
A financial instrument is categorized within the ASC Topic 820 valuation
hierarchy based upon the lowest level of input to the valuation process that is
significant to the fair value measurement. For example, a Level 3 fair value
measurement may include inputs that are observable (Levels 1 and 2) and
unobservable (Level 3). Therefore, unrealized appreciation and depreciation
related to such investments categorized as Level 3 investments within the tables
in the notes to our consolidated financial statements may include changes in
fair value that are attributable to both observable inputs (Levels 1 and 2) and
unobservable inputs (Level 3).
Our investment portfolio includes certain debt and equity instruments of
privately held companies for which quoted prices or other observable inputs
falling within the categories of Level 1 and Level 2 are generally not
available. In such cases, we determine the fair value of our investments in good
faith primarily using Level 3 inputs. In certain cases, quoted prices or other
observable inputs exist, and if so, we assess the appropriateness of the use of
these third-party quotes in determining fair value based on (i) our
understanding of the level of actual transactions used by the broker to develop
the quote and whether the quote was an indicative price or binding offer and
(ii) the depth and consistency of broker quotes and the correlation of changes
in broker quotes with underlying performance of the portfolio company.
There is no single standard for determining fair value in good faith, as fair
value depends upon the specific circumstances of each individual investment. The
recorded fair values of our Level 3 investments may differ significantly from
fair values that would have been used had an active market for the securities
existed. In addition, changes in the market environment and other events that
may occur over the life of the investments may cause the gains or losses
ultimately realized on these investments to be different than the valuations
currently assigned.
Investment Valuation Process
Barings has established a pricing committee that is, subject to the oversight of
the Board, responsible for the approval, implementation and oversight of the
processes and methodologies that relate to the pricing and valuation of assets
we hold. Barings uses independent third-party providers to price the portfolio,
but in the event an acceptable price cannot be obtained
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from an approved external source, Barings will utilize alternative methods in
accordance with internal pricing procedures established by Barings' pricing
committee.
At least annually, Barings conducts reviews of the primary pricing vendors to
validate that the inputs used in the vendors' pricing process are deemed to be
market observable. While Barings is not provided access to proprietary models of
the vendors, the reviews have included on-site walkthroughs of the pricing
process, methodologies and control procedures for each asset class and level for
which prices are provided. The review also includes an examination of the
underlying inputs and assumptions for a sample of individual securities across
asset classes, credit rating levels and various durations, a process Barings
continues to perform annually. In addition, the pricing vendors have an
established challenge process in place for all security valuations, which
facilitates identification and resolution of prices that fall outside expected
ranges. Barings believes that the prices received from the pricing vendors are
representative of prices that would be received to sell the assets at the
measurement date (i.e., exit prices).
Our money market fund investments are generally valued using Level 1 inputs and
our equity investments listed on an exchange or on the NASDAQ National Market
System are valued using Level 1 inputs, using the last quoted sale price of that
day. Our syndicated senior secured loans and structured product investments are
generally valued using Level 2 inputs, which are generally valued at the bid
quotation obtained from dealers in loans by an independent pricing service. Our
middle-market, private debt and equity investments are generally valued using
Level 3 inputs.
Independent Valuation
The fair value of loans and equity investments that are not syndicated or for
which market quotations are not readily available, including middle-market
loans, are generally submitted to independent providers to perform an
independent valuation on those loans and equity investments as of the end of
each quarter. Such loans and equity investments are initially held at cost, as
that is a reasonable approximation of fair value on the acquisition date, and
monitored for material changes that could affect the valuation (for example,
changes in interest rates or the credit quality of the borrower). At the quarter
end following the initial acquisition, such loans and equity investments are
generally sent to a valuation provider which will determine the fair value of
each investment. The independent valuation providers apply various methods
(synthetic rating analysis, discounting cash flows, and re-underwriting
analysis) to establish the rate of return a market participant would require
(the "discount rate") as of the valuation date, given market conditions,
prevailing lending standards and the perceived credit quality of the issuer.
Future expected cash flows for each investment are discounted back to present
value using these discount rates in the discounted cash flow analysis. A range
of values will be provided by the valuation provider and Barings will determine
the point within that range that it will use in making valuation recommendations
to the Board, and will report to the Board on its rationale for each such
determination. Barings continues to use its internal valuation model as a
comparison point to validate the price range provided by the valuation provider
and, where applicable, in determining the point within that range that it will
use in making valuation recommendations to the Board. If Barings' pricing
committee disagrees with the price range provided, it may make a fair value
recommendation to the Board that is outside of the range provided by the
independent valuation provider, and will notify the Board of any such override
and the reasons therefore. In certain instances, we may determine that it is not
cost-effective, and as a result is not in the stockholders' best interests, to
request an independent valuation firm to perform an independent valuation on
certain investments. Such instances include, but are not limited to, situations
where the fair value of the investment in the portfolio company is determined to
be insignificant relative to the total investment portfolio. Pursuant to these
procedures, the Board determines in good faith whether our investments were
valued at fair value in accordance with our valuation policies and procedures
and the 1940 Act based on, among other things, the input of Barings, our Audit
Committee and the independent valuation firm.
The SEC recently adopted new Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. This rule establishes
requirements for determining fair value in good faith for purposes of the 1940
Act. We will comply with the new rule's valuation requirements on or before the
SEC's compliance date in 2022.
Valuation Techniques
Our valuation techniques are based upon both observable and unobservable pricing
inputs. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources,
while unobservable inputs reflect our market assumptions. Our assessment of the
significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety
requires judgment and considers factors specific to the financial instrument. An
independent pricing service provider is the preferred source of pricing a loan,
however, to the extent the independent pricing service provider price is
unavailable or not relevant and reliable, we will utilize alternative approaches
such as broker quotes or manual prices. We attempt to maximize the use of
observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The availability
of observable inputs can vary from investment to investment and is affected by a
wide
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variety of factors, including the type of security, whether the security is new
and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets and other
characteristics particular to the security.
Valuation of Investment in Jocassee
We estimate the fair value of our investment in Jocassee Partners LLC, or
Jocassee, using the NAV of Jocassee and our ownership percentage. The NAV of
Jocassee is determined in accordance with the specialized accounting guidance
for investment companies.
Valuation of Investment in Thompson Rivers
We estimate the fair value of our investment in Thompson Rivers LLC, or Thompson
Rivers, using the NAV of Thompson Rivers and our ownership percentage. The NAV
of Thompson Rivers is determined in accordance with the specialized accounting
guidance for investment companies.
Valuation of Investments in MVC Private Equity Fund LP
We estimate the fair value of our investment in MVC Private Equity Fund LP, or
MVC PE Fund, using the NAV of the MVC PE Fund and our ownership percentage. The
NAV of the MVC PE Fund is determined in accordance with the specialized
accounting guidance for investment companies.
Valuation of Investment in Waccamaw River
We estimate the fair value of our investment in Waccamaw River LLC, or Waccamaw
River, using the NAV of Waccamaw River and our ownership percentage. The NAV of
Waccamaw River is determined in accordance with the specialized accounting
guidance for investment companies.
Revenue Recognition
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest income, including amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is
recorded on the accrual basis to the extent that such amounts are expected to be
collected. Generally, when interest and/or principal payments on a loan become
past due, or if we otherwise do not expect the borrower to be able to service
its debt and other obligations, we will place the loan on non-accrual status and
will generally cease recognizing interest income on that loan for financial
reporting purposes until all principal and interest have been brought current
through payment or due to a restructuring such that the interest income is
deemed to be collectible. The cessation of recognition of such interest will
negatively impact the reported fair value of the investment. We write off any
previously accrued and uncollected interest when it is determined that interest
is no longer considered collectible. Dividend income is recorded on the
ex-dividend date.
We may have to include interest income in our ICTI, including original issue
discount income, from investments that have been classified as non-accrual for
financial reporting purposes. Interest income on non-accrual investments is not
recognized for financial reporting purposes, but generally is recognized in
ICTI. As a result, we may be required to make a distribution to our stockholders
in order to satisfy the minimum distribution requirements to maintain our RIC
tax treatment, even though we will not have received and may not ever receive
any corresponding cash amount. Additionally, any loss recognized by us for U.S.
federal income tax purposes on previously accrued interest income will be
treated as a capital loss.
Fee Income
Origination, facility, commitment, consent and other advance fees received in
connection with the origination of a loan, or Loan Origination Fees, are
recorded as deferred income and recognized as investment income over the term of
the loan. Upon prepayment of a loan, any unamortized Loan Origination Fees are
recorded as investment income. In the general course of our business, we receive
certain fees from portfolio companies, which are non-recurring in nature. Such
fees include loan prepayment penalties, advisory, loan amendment and other fees,
and are recorded as investment income when earned.
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Fee income for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:
                                                                   Three Months          Three Months
                                                                       Ended                Ended
                                                                  March 31, 2021        March 31, 2020
Recurring Fee Income:
Amortization of loan origination fees                             $  1,078,090          $   429,549
Management, valuation and other fees                                   581,395              175,755
Total Recurring Fee Income                                           1,659,485              605,304
Non-Recurring Fee Income:
Prepayment fees                                                         49,517               84,151
Acceleration of unamortized loan origination fees                      402,948              228,456
Advisory, loan amendment and other fees                                 21,225               43,082
Total Non-Recurring Fee Income                                         473,690              355,689
Total Fee Income                                                  $  2,133,175          $   960,993


Payment-in-Kind (PIK) Interest Income
We currently hold, and expect to hold in the future, some loans in our portfolio
that contain PIK interest provisions. PIK interest, computed at the contractual
rate specified in each loan agreement, is periodically added to the principal
balance of the loan, rather than being paid to us in cash, and is recorded as
interest income. Thus, the actual collection of PIK interest may be deferred
until the time of debt principal repayment.
PIK interest, which is a non-cash source of income at the time of recognition,
is included in our taxable income and therefore affects the amount we are
required to distribute to our stockholders to maintain our tax treatment as a
RIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, even though we have not yet collected
the cash. Generally, when current cash interest and/or principal payments on a
loan become past due, or if we otherwise do not expect the borrower to be able
to service its debt and other obligations, we will place the loan on non-accrual
status and will generally cease recognizing PIK interest income on that loan for
financial reporting purposes until all principal and interest have been brought
current through payment or due to a restructuring such that the interest income
is deemed to be collectible. We write off any previously accrued and uncollected
PIK interest when it is determined that the PIK interest is no longer
collectible.
We may have to include in our ICTI, PIK interest income from investments that
have been classified as non-accrual for financial reporting purposes. Interest
income on non-accrual investments is not recognized for financial reporting
purposes, but generally is recognized in ICTI. As a result, we may be required
to make a distribution to our stockholders in order to satisfy the minimum
distribution requirements, even though we will not have received and may not
ever receive any corresponding cash amount.

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
In the normal course of business, we are party to financial instruments with
off-balance sheet risk, consisting primarily of unused commitments to extend
financing to our portfolio companies. Since commitments may expire without being
drawn upon, the total commitment amount does not necessarily represent future
cash requirements. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company
believed that it had adequate financial resources to satisfy its unfunded
commitments. The balances of unused commitments to extend financing as of
March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 were as follows:
                                                                                     March 31,
Portfolio Company(1)                              Investment Type                      2021                December 31, 2020
ADE Holding(3)                                    Committed Capex Line           $       88,194          $           91,814
Anju Software, Inc.                               Delayed Draw Term Loan              1,981,371                   1,981,371
Arch Global Precision, LLC                        Delayed Draw Term Loan              3,631,849                   4,193,475
Beacon Pointe Advisors, LLC                       Delayed Draw Term Loan                      -                     363,636
Bidwax(2)(3)                                      Acquisition Capex Facility          3,760,958                           -
BigHand UK Bidco Limited(4)                       Acquisition Capex Facility          1,843,756                           -

British Engineering Services Holdco Limited(4) Acquisition Facility

                   -                   7,006,008

British Engineering Services Holdco Limited(4) Bridge Revolver

             623,944                     618,177
Centralis Finco S.a.r.l.(3)                       Acquisition Facility                  476,392                     495,950

Classic Collision (Summit Buyer, LLC)(2) Delayed Draw Term Loan

             454,562                   1,672,446
CM Acquisitions Holdings Inc.                     Delayed Draw Term Loan              1,551,602                   1,551,602
Contabo Finco S.À R.L(3)                          Delayed Draw Term Loan                219,212                     228,211
CSL Dualcom(4)                                    Delayed Draw Term Loan              1,016,577                   1,007,182
Dart Buyer, Inc.                                  Delayed Draw Term Loan              2,430,569                   2,430,569
DreamStart Bidco SAS(3)                           Acquisition Facility                  956,378                     995,640
F24 (Stairway BidCo GmbH)(3)                      Acquisition Facility                  418,703                     323,840
Fineline Technologies, Inc.(2)                    Delayed Draw Term Loan                600,000                           -
FitzMark Buyer, Inc.                              Delayed Draw Term Loan              1,470,588                   1,470,588
Foundation Risk Partners, Corp.                   Delayed Draw Term Loan              4,716,805                   4,984,771
Heartland, LLC                                    Delayed Draw Term Loan              5,347,666                   5,347,666

Heilbron (f/k/a Sucsez (Bolt Bidco B.V.))(3) Accordion Facility

                   -                  10,225,081
Home Care Assistance, LLC(2)                      Delayed Draw Term Loan              3,038,310                           -
IGL Holdings III Corp.                            Delayed Draw Term Loan              5,914,219                   5,914,219
INOS 19-090 GmbH(2)(3)                            Acquisition Facility                2,620,403                   2,727,980
Jocassee Partners LLC                             Joint Venture                      25,000,000                  30,000,000
Kano Laboratories LLC(2)                          Delayed Draw Term Loan              4,543,950                   4,543,950
Kene Acquisition, Inc.                            Delayed Draw Term Loan                      -                     322,928
LAF International(2)(3)                           Acquisition Facility                  364,343                           -
LivTech Purchaser, Inc.(2)                        Delayed Draw Term Loan                447,752                           -

Modern Star Holdings Bidco Pty Limited(5) Capex Term Loan

           2,285,953                   2,315,967
Murphy Midco Limited(4)                           Delayed Draw Term Loan              3,332,269                   3,301,472
Navia Benefit Solutions, Inc.(2)                  Delayed Draw Term Loan              4,000,000                           -
Options Technology Ltd.                           Delayed Draw Term Loan              2,604,080                   2,604,080

Pacific Health Supplies Bidco Pty Limited(5) CapEx Term Loan

           1,343,603                   1,535,025
Premier Technical Services Group(4)               Acquisition Facility                1,208,676                   1,197,505
Protego Bidco B.V.(2)(3)                          Delayed Draw Term Loan              3,836,870                           -
Protego Bidco B.V.(2)(3)                          Revolver                            2,302,121                           -
PSC UK Pty Ltd.(4)                                Acquisition Facility                  540,149                     535,157
Questel Unite(2)(3)                               Cap Acquisition Facility            4,747,241                  10,300,913
Radwell International, LLC                        Delayed Draw Term Loan              1,617,973                   3,235,947


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                                                                                    March 31,
Portfolio Company(1)                         Investment Type                           2021               December 31, 2020
Rep Seko Merger Sub LLC                      Delayed Draw Term Loan                  1,454,545                   1,454,546
Safety Products Holdings, LLC                Delayed Draw Term Loan                  6,467,345                   6,467,345
Smile Brands Group, Inc.(2)                  Delayed Draw Term Loan                  2,148,691                   2,148,691
Springbrook Software (SBRK Intermediate,
Inc.)                                        Delayed Draw Term Loan                  3,489,026                   3,489,026
SSCP Pegasus Midco Limited(4)                Delayed Draw Term Loan                 13,514,446                  13,389,546
The Hilb Group, LLC(2)                       Delayed Draw Term Loan                  5,105,694                   5,545,939
Transit Technologies LLC(2)                  Delayed Draw Term Loan                  6,035,305                   6,035,305
USLS Acquisition, Inc.(2)                    Delayed Draw Term Loan                    450,466                     450,466
Utac Ceram(2)(3)                             Delayed Draw Term Loan                          -                     743,327
Waccamaw River                               Joint Venture                          20,500,000                           -
W2O Holdings, Inc.                           Delayed Draw Term Loan                  5,989,298                   5,989,298
Total unused commitments to extend financing                                

$ 166,491,854 $ 159,236,659




(1)Our estimate of the fair value of the current investments in these portfolio
companies includes an analysis of the fair value of any unfunded commitments.
(2)Represents a commitment to extend financing to a portfolio company where one
or more of our current investments in the portfolio company are carried at less
than cost.
(3)Actual commitment amount is denominated in Euros. Commitment was translated
into U.S. dollars based on the spot rate at the relevant balance sheet date.
(4)Actual commitment amount is denominated in British pounds sterling.
Commitment was translated into U.S. dollars based on the spot rate at the
relevant balance sheet date.
(5)Actual commitment amount is denominated in Australian dollars. Commitment was
translated into U.S. dollars based on the spot rate at the relevant balance
sheet date.
In the normal course of business, we guarantee certain obligations in connection
with our portfolio companies (in particular, certain controlled portfolio
companies). Under these guarantee arrangements, payments may be required to be
made to third parties if such guarantees are called upon or if the portfolio
companies were to default on their related obligations, as applicable. As of
March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had guaranteed €9.9 million ($11.6
million U.S. dollars and $12.1 million U.S. dollars, respectively) relating to
credit facilities among Erste Bank and MVC Automotive Group Gmbh, or MVC Auto.
We would be required to make payments to Erste Bank if MVC Auto were to default
on their related payment obligations. None of the credit facility guarantees are
recorded as a liability on our Unaudited and Audited Consolidated Balance
Sheets. As such, the credit facility liabilities are considered in the valuation
of our investments in MVC Auto. The guarantees denominated in foreign currencies
were translated into U.S. dollars based on the spot rate at the relevant balance
sheet date.
In addition, we agreed to cash collateralize a $3.5 million letter of credit for
Security Holdings B.V. The $3.5 million cash collateralization is reflected as
"Restricted cash" on the accompanying Unaudited and Audited Consolidated Balance
Sheets.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
We are subject to market risk. Market risk includes risks that arise from
changes in interest rates, commodity prices, equity prices and other market
changes that affect market sensitive instruments. The prices of securities held
by us may decline in response to certain events, including those directly
involving the companies we invest in; conditions affecting the general economy;
overall market changes; global pandemics; legislative reform; local, regional,
national or global political, social or economic instability; and interest rate
fluctuations.
In addition, we are subject to interest rate risk. Interest rate risk is defined
as the sensitivity of our current and future earnings to interest rate
volatility, variability of spread relationships, the difference in re-pricing
intervals between our assets and liabilities and the effect that interest rates
may have on our cash flows. Changes in the general level of interest rates can
affect our net interest income, which is the difference between the interest
income earned on interest earning assets and our interest expense incurred in
connection with our interest bearing debt and liabilities. Changes in interest
rates can also affect, among other things, our ability to acquire and originate
loans and securities and the value of our investment portfolio. Our net
investment income is affected by fluctuations in various interest rates,
including LIBOR, AUD Screen Rate, CDOR, GBP LIBOR, EURIBOR and STIBOR. Our risk
management systems and procedures are designed to identify and analyze our risk,
to set appropriate policies and limits and to continually monitor these risks.
We regularly measure exposure to interest rate risk and determine whether or not
any hedging transactions are necessary to mitigate exposure to changes in
interest rates. As of March 31, 2021, we were not a party to any interest rate
hedging arrangements.
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In connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Federal Reserve and other
central banks have reduced certain interest rates and LIBOR has decreased. A
prolonged reduction in interest rates will reduce our gross investment income
and could result in a decrease in our net investment income if such decreases in
LIBOR are not offset by a corresponding increase in the spread over LIBOR that
we earn on any portfolio investments, a decrease in in our operating expenses,
including with respect to our income incentive fee, or a decrease in the
interest rate of our floating interest rate liabilities tied to LIBOR.
As of March 31, 2021, approximately $1,252.3 million (principal amount) of our
debt portfolio investments bore interest at variable rates, which generally are
LIBOR-based (or based on an equivalent applicable currency rate), and many of
which are subject to certain floors. A hypothetical 200 basis point increase or
decrease in the interest rates on our variable-rate debt investments could
increase or decrease, as applicable, our investment income by a maximum of
$25.0 million on an annual basis.
Borrowings under the February 2019 Credit Facility bear interest, subject to our
election, on a per annum basis equal to (i) the applicable base rate plus 1.00%
(or 1.25% if we no longer maintain an investment grade credit rating), (ii) the
applicable LIBOR rate plus 2.00% (or 2.25% if we no longer maintain an
investment grade credit rating), (iii) for borrowings denominated in certain
foreign currencies other than Australian dollars, the applicable currency rate
for the foreign currency as defined in the credit agreement plus 2.00% (or 2.25%
if we no longer maintain an investment grade credit rating) or (iv) for
borrowings denominated in Australian dollars, the applicable Australian dollars
Screen Rate, plus 2.20% (or 2.45% if we no longer maintain an investment grade
credit rating). The applicable base rate is equal to the greatest of (i) the
prime rate, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, (iii) the Overnight Bank
Funding Rate plus 0.5%, (iv) the adjusted three-month applicable currency rate
plus 1.0% and (v) 1.0%. The applicable LIBOR and currency rates depend on the
currency and term of the draw under the February 2019 Credit Facility, and
cannot be less than zero. A hypothetical 200 basis point increase or decrease in
the interest rates on the February 2019 Credit Facility could increase or
decrease, as applicable, our interest expense by a maximum of $12.2 million on
an annual basis (based on the amount of outstanding borrowings under the
February 2019 Credit Facility as of March 31, 2021). We pay a commitment fee of
(x) 0.5% per annum on undrawn amounts if the unused portion of the February 2019
Credit Facility is greater than two-thirds of total commitments or (y) 0.375%
per annum on undrawn amounts if the unused portion of the February 2019 Credit
Facility is equal to or less than two-thirds of total commitments.
In July 2017, the head of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority
announced the desire to phase out the use of LIBOR by the end of 2021. There is
currently no definitive information regarding the future utilization of LIBOR or
of any particular replacement rate. As such, the potential effect of any such
event on our cost of capital and net investment income cannot yet be determined.
In addition, any further changes or reforms to the determination or supervision
of LIBOR may result in a sudden or prolonged increase or decrease in reported
LIBOR, which could have an adverse impact on the market value for or value of
any LIBOR-linked securities, loans, and other financial obligations or
extensions of credit held by or due to us and could have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Because we have previously borrowed, and plan to borrow in the future, money to
make investments, our net investment income will be dependent upon the
difference between the rate at which we borrow funds and the rate at which we
invest the funds borrowed. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that a
significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse
effect on our net investment income. In periods of rising interest rates, our
cost of funds would increase, which could reduce our net investment income if
there is not a corresponding increase in interest income generated by our
investment portfolio.
We may also have exposure to foreign currencies related to certain investments.
Such investments are translated into U.S. dollars based on the spot rate at the
relevant balance sheet date, exposing us to movements in the exchange rate. In
order to reduce our exposure to fluctuations in exchange rates, we generally
borrow in local foreign currencies under the February 2019 Credit Facility to
finance such investments. As of March 31, 2021, we had borrowings denominated in
Swedish kronas of 12.8kr million ($1.5 million U.S. dollars) with an interest
rate of 2.000%, borrowings denominated in British pounds sterling of £85.3
million ($117.7 million U.S. dollars) with an interest rate of 2.063%,
borrowings denominated in Australian dollars of A$36.6 million ($27.9 million
U.S. dollars) with an interest rate of 2.250% and borrowings denominated in
Euros of €91.1 million ($107.1 million U.S. dollars) with an interest rate of
2.000%.
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