Bain Capital Specialty Finance Inc

Previous wording

Bain Capital Credit’s and our Advisor’s investment professionals have substantial responsibilities in connection with the management of other Bain Capital Credit Clients. The personnel of Bain Capital Credit may be called upon to provide managerial assistance to our portfolio companies. These demands on their time, which may increase as the number of investments grow, may distract them or slow our rate of investment. The employees of our Advisor and other Bain Capital Credit investment professionals expect to devote such time and attention to the conduct of our business as such business shall reasonably require. However, there can be no assurance, for example, that the members of our Advisor or such investment professionals will devote any minimum number of hours each week to our affairs or that they will continue to be employed by Bain Capital Credit. Subject to certain remedies, in the event that certain employees of our Advisor cease to be actively involved with us, we will be required to rely on the ability of Bain Capital Credit to identify and retain other investment professionals to conduct our business. The Board intends to evaluate the commitment and performance of our Advisor in conjunction with the annual approval of the Amended Advisory Agreement and Administration Agreement.

Current wording

Bain Capital Credit’s and our Advisor’s investment professionals have substantial responsibilities in connection with the other funds and accounts managed by Bain Capital Credit ("Bain Capital Credit Funds" or "Bain Capital Credit Clients"). The personnel of Bain Capital Credit may be called upon to provide managerial assistance to our portfolio companies. These demands on their time, which may increase as the number of investments grow, may distract them or slow our rate of investment. The employees of our Advisor and other Bain Capital Credit investment professionals expect to devote such time and attention to the conduct of our business as such business shall reasonably require. However, there can be no assurance, for example, that the members of our Advisor or such investment professionals will devote any minimum number of hours each week to our affairs or that they will continue to be employed by Bain Capital Credit. Subject to certain remedies, in the event that certain employees of our Advisor cease to be actively involved with us, we will be required to rely on the ability of Bain Capital Credit to identify and retain other investment professionals to conduct our business. The Board intends to evaluate the commitment and performance of our Advisor in conjunction with the annual approval of the Amended Advisory Agreement and Administration Agreement.

Previous wording

Under the Resource Sharing Agreement, Bain Capital Credit has agreed to provide our Advisor with experienced investment professionals necessary to fulfill its obligations under the Amended Advisory Agreement. The Resource Sharing Agreement, however, may be terminated by either party on 60 days’ notice. We cannot assure stockholders that Bain Capital Credit will fulfill its obligations under the Resource Sharing Agreement. We also cannot assure stockholders that our Advisor will enforce the Resource Sharing Agreement if Bain Capital Credit fails to perform, that such agreement will not be terminated by either party or that we will continue to have access to the investment professionals of Bain Capital Credit and its affiliates or their information and deal flow.

Current wording

Under the Resource Sharing Agreement, Bain Capital Credit has agreed to provide our Advisor with experienced investment professionals necessary to fulfill its obligations under the Amended Advisory Agreement. The Resource Sharing Agreement, however, may be terminated by either party on 60 days’ notice. We cannot assure stockholders that Bain Capital Credit will fulfill its obligations under the Resource Sharing Agreement. We also cannot assure stockholders that our Advisor will enforce the Resource Sharing Agreement if Bain Capital Credit fails to perform, that such agreement will not be terminated by either party or that we will continue to have access to the investment professionals of Bain Capital Credit and its affiliates or their information and deal flow. The Advisor, Bain Capital Credit and/or their affiliates will enter into employment contracts with and provide life insurance for their key personnel.

Previous wording

Our primary focus in making investments may differ from those of existing Bain Capital Credit Funds and Related Funds. Past performance should not be relied upon as an indication of future results. There can be no guarantee that we will replicate our own historical performance, the historical success of Bain Capital Credit or the historical performance of Bain Capital Credit Funds and/or Related Funds, and we caution stockholders that our investment returns could be substantially lower than the returns achieved by them in prior periods. We cannot assure you that we will be profitable in the future or that our Advisor will be able to continue to implement our investment objectives with the same degree of success as it has had in the past. Additionally, all or a portion of the prior results may have been achieved in particular market conditions that may never be repeated. Moreover, current or future market volatility and regulatory uncertainty may have an adverse impact on our future performance.

Current wording

Our primary focus in making investments may differ from those of existing Bain Capital Credit Funds and Related Funds and the funds and accounts managed by the affiliate advisors (including our Advisor's funds) ("Related Funds"). Past performance should not be relied upon as an indication of future results. There can be no guarantee that we will replicate our own historical performance, the historical success of Bain Capital Credit or the historical performance of Bain Capital Credit Funds and/or Related Funds, and we caution stockholders that our investment returns could be substantially lower than the returns achieved by them in prior periods. We cannot assure you that we will be profitable in the future or that our Advisor will be able to continue to implement our investment objectives with the same degree of success as it has had in the past. Additionally, all or a portion of the prior results may have been achieved in particular market conditions that may never be repeated. Moreover, current or future market volatility and regulatory uncertainty may have an adverse impact on our future performance.

Previous wording

The executive officers and directors and other employees of Bain Capital Credit and our Advisor, including our portfolio managers, are, or may be, investors in, or serve, or may serve, as officers, directors, members, or principals of, entities that operate in the same or a related line of business as we do, or of Bain Capital Credit Clients. Similarly, Bain Capital Credit and Affiliated Advisors may have other clients with similar, different or competing investment objectives. Accordingly, the members of the professional staff of Bain Capital Credit and our Advisor will have demands on their time for the investment, monitoring and other functions of other funds advised by Bain Capital Credit.

Current wording

The executive officers and directors and other employees of Bain Capital Credit and our Advisor, including our portfolio managers, are, or may be, investors in, or serve, or may serve, as officers, directors, members, or principals of, entities that operate in the same or a related line of business as we do, or of Bain Capital Credit Clients. Similarly, Bain Capital Credit and its affiliated advisors may have other clients with similar, different or competing investment objectives. Accordingly, the members of the professional staff of Bain Capital Credit and our Advisor will have demands on their time for the investment, monitoring and other functions of other funds advised by Bain Capital Credit.

Previous wording

In serving in these multiple capacities, they may have obligations to other clients or investors in those entities, the fulfillment of which may not be in the best interests of, or may be adverse to the interests of, us or our stockholders. Although the professional staff of Bain Capital Credit will devote as much time to our management as appropriate to enable our Advisor to perform its duties in accordance with the Amended Advisory Agreement, Bain Capital Credit has, and will continue to have management responsibilities for Bain Capital Credit Clients. There is a potential that we will compete with these Bain Capital Credit Clients, for capital and investment opportunities. As a result, Bain Capital Credit and our portfolio managers will face conflicts in the allocation of investment opportunities among us and the Bain Capital Credit Clients and may make certain investments that are appropriate for us but for which we receive a relatively small allocation of such investment or no allocation at all. Bain Capital Credit intends to allocate investment opportunities among eligible Bain Capital Credit Clients in a manner that is fair and equitable over time and consistent with its allocation policy. However, we can offer no assurance that such opportunities will be allocated to us fairly or equitably in the short-term or over time, and we may not be given the opportunity to participate in investments made by investment funds managed by our Advisor or an investment manager affiliated with our Advisor, including Bain Capital Credit. If our Advisor recommends a particular level of investment for us, and the aggregate amount recommended by our Advisor for us and for other participating Bain Capital Credit Clients exceeds the amount of the investment opportunity, subject to applicable law, investments made pursuant to exemptive relief will generally be allocated among the participants pro rata based on capital available for investment in the asset class being allocated and the respective governing documents of such Bain Capital Credit Clients. We expect that available capital for our investments will be determined based on the amount of cash on-hand, existing commitments and reserves, if any, the targeted leverage level, targeted asset mix and diversification requirements and other investment policies and restrictions set by the Board or as imposed by applicable laws, rules, regulations or interpretations. In instances when investments are not made pursuant to exemptive relief, allocations among us and other Bain Capital Credit Clients, subject to applicable law and regulation, will be done in accordance with our Advisor’s trade allocation practice, which is generally pro rata based on order size. There can be no assurance that we will be able to participate in all investment opportunities that are suitable for us.

Current wording

Bain Capital Credit will devote as much time to our management as appropriate to enable our Advisor to perform its duties in accordance with the Amended Advisory Agreement, Bain Capital Credit has, and will continue to have management responsibilities for Bain Capital Credit Clients. There is a potential that we will compete with these Bain Capital Credit Clients, for capital and investment opportunities. As a result, Bain Capital Credit and our portfolio managers will face conflicts in the allocation of investment opportunities among us and the Bain Capital Credit Clients and may make certain investments that are appropriate for us but for which we receive a relatively small allocation of such investment or no allocation at all. Bain Capital Credit intends to allocate investment opportunities among eligible Bain Capital Credit Clients in a manner that is fair and equitable over time and consistent with its allocation policy. However, we can offer no assurance that such opportunities will be allocated to us fairly or equitably in the short-term or over time, and we may not be given the opportunity to participate in investments made by investment funds managed by our Advisor or an investment manager affiliated with our Advisor, including Bain Capital Credit. If our Advisor recommends a particular level of investment for us, and the aggregate amount recommended by our Advisor for us and for other participating Bain Capital Credit Clients exceeds the amount of the investment opportunity, subject to applicable law, investments made pursuant to exemptive relief will generally be allocated among the participants pro rata based on capital available for investment in the asset class being allocated and the respective governing documents of such Bain Capital Credit Clients. We expect that available capital for our investments will be determined based on the amount of cash on-hand, existing commitments and reserves, if any, the targeted leverage level, targeted asset mix and diversification requirements and other investment policies and restrictions set by the Board or as imposed by applicable laws, rules, regulations or interpretations. In instances when investments are not made pursuant to exemptive relief, allocations among us and other Bain Capital Credit Clients, subject to applicable law and regulation, will be done in accordance with our Advisor’s trade allocation practice, which is generally pro rata based on order size. There can be no assurance that we will be able to participate in all investment opportunities that are suitable for us.

Previous wording

Conflicts created by valuation process for certain portfolio holdings.

Current wording

Conflicts created by the valuation process for certain portfolio holdings.

Previous wording

We expect to make many of our portfolio investments in the form of loans and securities that are not publicly traded and for which no market based price quotation is available. As a result, the Board has designated the Advisor as the Valuation Designee pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act to determine the fair value of these loans and securities in good faith as described below in “—The majority of our portfolio investments are recorded at fair value as determined in good faith by the Advisor and, as a result, there may be uncertainty as to the value of our portfolio investments.” Each of the interested members of the Board has an indirect pecuniary interest in our Advisor. The participation of our Advisor’s investment professionals in our valuation process, and the pecuniary interest in our Advisor by certain members of the Board, could result in a conflict of interest as our Advisor’s management fee is based, in part, on the value of our gross assets, and our incentive fees will be based, in part, on realized gains and realized and unrealized losses.

Current wording

We expect to make many of our portfolio investments in the form of loans and securities that are not publicly traded and for which no market based price quotation is available. As a result, the Board has designated the Advisor as the "Valuation Designee" to perform fair value determinations for these investments pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act, as described below in “—The majority of our portfolio investments are recorded at fair value and, as a result, there may be uncertainty as to the value of our portfolio investments.” Each of the interested members of the Board has an indirect pecuniary interest in our Advisor. The participation of our Advisor’s investment professionals in our valuation process, and the pecuniary interest in our Advisor by certain members of the Board, could result in a conflict of interest as our Advisor’s management fee is based, in part, on the value of our gross assets, and our incentive fees will be based, in part, on realized gains and realized and unrealized losses.

Previous wording

Moreover, the identification of attractive investment opportunities is difficult and involves a high degree of uncertainty. We may incur significant expenses in connection with identifying investment opportunities and investigating other potential investments that are ultimately not consummated, including expenses relating to due diligence, transportation, legal expenses and the fees of other third party advisors.

Current wording

Moreover, the identification of attractive investment opportunities is difficult and involves a high degree of uncertainty. We may incur significant expenses in connection with identifying investment opportunities and investigating other potential investments that are ultimately not consummated, including expenses relating to due diligence, transportation, legal expenses and the fees of other third-party service providers.

Previous wording

Our business could be adversely affected in the event we default under our debt agreements or any future credit or other borrowing agreements.

Current wording

Our business could be adversely affected in the event we default under our debt agreements.

Previous wording

Based on (i) $2,472.3 million in total assets as of December 31, 2023, (ii) $1,263.5 million in outstanding indebtedness as of December 31, 2023, (iii) $1,136.5 million in net assets as of December 31, 2023, and (iv) an annualized average interest rate on our indebtedness, as of December 31, 2023, excluding fees (such as fees on undrawn amounts and amortization of financing costs), of 5.2%.

Current wording

Based on (i) $2,632.2 million in total assets as of December 31, 2024, (ii) $1,395.2 million in outstanding indebtedness as of December 31, 2024, (iii) $1,139.7 million in net assets as of December 31, 2024, and (iv) an annualized average interest rate on our indebtedness, as of December 31, 2024, excluding fees (such as fees on undrawn amounts and amortization of financing costs), of 5.1%.

Previous wording

Based on (i) $3,481.8 million in total assets on a pro forma basis as of December 31, 2023, after giving effect of a hypothetical asset coverage ratio of 150%, (ii) $2,272.9 million in outstanding indebtedness on a pro forma basis as of December 31, 2023 after giving effect of a hypothetical asset coverage ratio of 150%, (iii) $1,136.5 million in net assets as of December 31, 2023, and (iv) an annualized average interest rate on our indebtedness, as of December 31, 2023, excluding fees (such as fees on undrawn amounts and amortization of financing costs), of 5.2%.

Current wording

Based on (i) $3,516.3 million in total assets on a pro forma basis as of December 31, 2024, after giving effect of a hypothetical asset coverage ratio of 150%, (ii) $2,279.3 million in outstanding indebtedness on a pro forma basis as of December 31, 2024 after giving effect of a hypothetical asset coverage ratio of 150%, (iii) $1,139.7 million in net assets as of December 31, 2024, and (iv) an annualized average interest rate on our indebtedness, as of December 31, 2024, excluding fees (such as fees on undrawn amounts and amortization of financing costs), of 5.1%.

Previous wording

The London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) was a leading floating rate benchmark used in loans, notes, derivatives and other instruments or investments. As a result of benchmark reforms, publication of most LIBOR settings has ceased. Some LIBOR settings continue to be published, but only on a temporary, synthetic and non-representative basis. Regulated entities have generally ceased entering into new LIBOR contracts in connection with regulatory guidance and prohibitions. There remains uncertainty regarding the future use of LIBOR and the nature of any replacement rate, and any potential effects of the transition away from LIBOR on the Company or on certain instruments in which the Company invests are not known. Various financial industry groups and certain regulators have taken actions to establish alternative reference rates (e.g., Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”), which measures the cost of overnight borrowings through repurchase agreement transactions collateralized with U.S. Treasury securities and is intended to replace U.S. dollar LIBOR with certain adjustments).

Current wording

The London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) was a leading floating rate benchmark used in loans, notes, derivatives and other instruments or investments. As a result of benchmark reforms, publication of all LIBOR settings has ceased. Various financial industry groups and certain regulators have taken actions to establish alternative reference rates (e.g., SOFR), which measures the cost of overnight borrowings through repurchase agreement transactions collateralized with U.S. Treasury securities and is intended to replace U.S. dollar LIBOR with certain adjustments).

Previous wording

Given the inherent differences between LIBOR and rates like SOFR or any other alternative benchmark rates that may be established, there are many uncertainties regarding a transition from LIBOR, including, but not limited to, the need to amend all contracts with LIBOR as the referenced rate and how this will impact the cost of variable rate debt and certain derivative financial instruments. In addition, SOFR or other alternative benchmark rates may fail to gain market acceptance. Any failure of SOFR or alternative benchmark rates to gain market acceptance could adversely affect the return on, value of and market for securities linked to such rates.

Current wording

Given the inherent differences between LIBOR and rates like SOFR or any other alternative benchmark rates that may be established, there are many uncertainties regarding the long-term effects of the transition from LIBOR, including, but not limited to, how this will impact the cost and value of variable rate debt and certain derivative financial instruments. In addition, SOFR or other alternative benchmark rates may fail to gain market acceptance. Any failure of SOFR or alternative benchmark rates to gain market acceptance could adversely affect the return on, value of and market for securities linked to such rates.

Previous wording

At this time, it is not possible to predict the effect of any such changes, any establishment of alternative benchmark rates or any other reforms to LIBOR that may be enacted. The elimination of LIBOR or any other changes or reforms to the determination or supervision of LIBOR could have an adverse impact on the market for or value of any LIBOR-linked securities, loans, and other financial obligations or extensions of credit held by or due to the Company or on the Company’s overall financial condition or results of operations. In addition, when LIBOR ceases to exist, the Company may need to renegotiate credit agreements extending beyond the LIBOR phase out date with portfolio companies that continue to utilize LIBOR as a factor in determining the interest rate, in order to replace LIBOR with the new standard that is established, which may have an adverse effect on the Company’s overall financial condition or results of operations. Following the replacement of LIBOR, some or all of these credit agreements may bear interest a lower interest rate, which could have an adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations. Moreover, when LIBOR ceases to exist, the Company may need to renegotiate certain terms of its credit facilities. If the Company is unable to do so, amounts drawn under its credit facilities may bear interest at a higher rate, which would increase the cost of its borrowings and, in turn, affect its results of operations. The potential effect of a transition away from LIBOR on the Company or the financial instruments in which the Company invests can be difficult to ascertain, and they may vary depending on factors that include, but are not limited to: (i) existing fallback or termination provisions in individual contracts and (ii) whether, how, and when industry participants develop and adopt new reference rates and fallbacks for both legacy and new products and instruments.

Current wording

At this time, it is not possible to predict the effect of any such changes, any establishment of alternative benchmark rates or any other reforms to any floating rate benchmarks that may be enacted in the future. The elimination of LIBOR or any other floating rate benchmark or any other changes or reforms to the determination or supervision of any other floating rate benchmark could have an adverse impact on the market for or value of any linked (or in the case of LIBOR, formerly-linked) securities, loans, and other financial obligations or extensions of credit held by or due to the Company or on the Company’s overall financial condition or results of operations. In addition, when any applicable floating rate benchmark ceases to exist, the Company may need to renegotiate credit agreements extending beyond the related phase out date with portfolio companies that continue to utilize that benchmark as a factor in determining the interest rate, in order to replace the benchmark with the new standard that is established, which may have an adverse effect on the Company’s overall financial condition or results of operations. Following the replacement of such a benchmark, some or all of these credit agreements may bear a lower interest rate, which could have an adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations. If the Company is unable to renegotiate certain terms of its credit facilities, amounts drawn under its credit facilities may bear interest at a higher rate, which would increase the cost of its borrowings and, in turn, affect its results of operations.

Previous wording

We are and may be subject to restrictions under our credit debt agreements and any future credit or other borrowing facility that could adversely impact our business.

Current wording

We are and may be subject to restrictions under our debt agreements and any future credit or other borrowing facility that could adversely impact our business.

Previous wording

We expect that many of our portfolio investments will take the form of loans and securities that are not publicly traded. The fair value of loans, securities and other investments that are not publicly traded may not have market quotations available and the fair value may not be readily determinable. If market quotations are not available or reliable, we will value these investments at fair value as determined in good faith by the Advisor, including to reflect significant events affecting the value of our investments. Many, if not all, of our investments (other than cash) may be classified as Level 3 under ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). This means that our portfolio valuations will be based on unobservable inputs and our own assumptions about how market participants would price the asset or liability in question. We expect that inputs into the determination of fair value of our portfolio investments will require significant management judgment or estimation. Even if observable market data are available, such information may be the result of consensus pricing information or broker quotes, which include a disclaimer that the broker would not be held to such a price in an actual transaction. The non-binding nature of consensus pricing and/or quotes accompanied by disclaimers materially reduces the reliability of such information. We retain the services of one or more independent service providers to review the valuation of these loans and securities. However, the ultimate determination of fair value will be made by the Advisor and not by such third-party valuation firm. The types of factors that the Advisor may take into account in determining the fair value of our investments generally include, as appropriate, comparison to publicly traded securities including such factors as yield, maturity and measures of credit quality, the enterprise value of a portfolio company, the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company’s ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments may be made in the future, comparisons to publicly traded companies, relevant credit market indices and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we consider the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate our valuation.

Current wording

We expect that many of our portfolio investments will take the form of loans and securities that are not publicly traded. The fair value of loans, securities and other investments that are not publicly traded may not have market quotations available and the fair value may not be readily determinable. If market quotations are not available or reliable, the Advisor will value these investments pursuant to its own written valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board, pursuant to its delegation to the Advisor, including to reflect significant events affecting the value of our investments. Many, if not all, of our investments (other than cash) may be classified as Level 3 under ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). This means that our portfolio valuations will be based on unobservable inputs and our own assumptions about how market participants would price the asset or liability in question. We expect that inputs into the determination of fair value of our portfolio investments will require significant management judgment or estimation. Even if observable market data are available, such information may be the result of consensus pricing information or broker quotes, which include a disclaimer that the broker would not be held to such a price in an actual transaction. The non-binding nature of consensus pricing and/or quotes accompanied by disclaimers materially reduces the reliability of such information. We retain the services of one or more independent service providers to review the valuation of these loans and securities. However, the ultimate determination of fair value will be made by the Advisor as the Valuation Designee and not by such third-party valuation firm. The types of factors that the Advisor may take into account in determining the fair value of our investments generally include, as appropriate, comparison to publicly traded securities including such factors as yield, maturity and measures of credit quality, the enterprise value of a portfolio company, the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company’s ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments may be made in the future, comparisons to publicly traded companies, relevant credit market indices and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we consider the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate our valuation.

Previous wording

Under the terms of the relevant master loan sale agreements, we sold and/or contributed to the 2018-1 Issuer and 2019-1 Issuer all of our ownership interest in our portfolio loans and participations for the purchase price and other consideration set forth in such master loan sale agreement (including an increase in the value of the “Membership Interests”). On March 7, 2022, the Company sold 70% of the membership equity interests of the Company's 2018-1 Notes to SLP, which resulted in the deconsolidation of the 2018-1 Notes and the 2018-1 Issuer's financial statements from the Company's consolidated financial statements. We hold 100% of the equity interests in the 2019-1 Issuer. As a result, we expect to consolidate the financial statements of the 2019-1 Issuer, as well as our other controlled subsidiaries, in our consolidated financial statements. However, once contributed to a CLO, the underlying loans and participation interests have been securitized and are no longer our direct investment, and the risk return profile has been altered. In general, rather than holding interests in the underlying loans and participation interests, we hold membership interests in a CLO issuer (i.e., the 2018-1 Issuer and 2019-1 Issuer), with the CLO holding the underlying loans. As a result, we are subject both to the risks and benefits associated with the equity interests of the CLO (i.e., the Membership Interests) and the risks and benefits associated with the underlying loans and participation interests held by the 2018-1 Issuer and 2019-1 Issuer.

Current wording

Under the terms of the relevant master loan sale agreements, we sold and/or contributed to the 2019-1 Issuer all of our ownership interest in our portfolio loans and participations for the purchase price and other consideration set forth in such master loan sale agreement (including an increase in the value of the “Membership Interests”). On March 7, 2022, the Company sold 70% of the membership equity interests of the Company's 2018-1 Notes to SLP, which resulted in the deconsolidation of the 2018-1 Notes and the 2018-1 Issuer's financial statements from the Company's consolidated financial statements. We hold 100% of the equity interests in the 2019-1 Issuer. As a result, we expect to consolidate the financial statements of the 2019-1 Issuer, as well as our other controlled subsidiaries, in our consolidated financial statements. However, once contributed to a CLO, the underlying loans and participation interests have been securitized and are no longer our direct investment, and the risk return profile has been altered. In general, rather than holding interests in the underlying loans and participation interests, we hold membership interests in a CLO issuer (i.e., the 2018-1 Issuer and 2019-1 Issuer), with the CLO holding the underlying loans. As a result, we are subject both to the risks and benefits associated with the equity interests of the CLO (i.e., the Membership Interests) and the risks and benefits associated with the underlying loans and participation interests held by the 2018-1 Issuer and 2019-1 Issuer.

Previous wording

We may be precluded from investing in what we believe are attractive investments if such investments are not qualifying assets for purposes of the 1940 Act. If we do not invest a sufficient portion of our assets in qualifying assets, we could violate the 1940 Act provisions applicable to BDCs. As a result of such violation, specific rules under the 1940 Act could prevent us, for example, from making follow-on investments in existing portfolio companies (which could result in the dilution of our position) or could require us to dispose of investments at inappropriate times in order to come into compliance with the 1940 Act. If we need to dispose of such investments quickly, it could be difficult to dispose of such investments on favorable terms. We may not be able to find a buyer for such investments and, even if we do find a buyer, we may have to sell the investments at a substantial loss. Any such outcomes could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. See “Item 1. Business—Regulation as a Business Development Company—Qualifying Assets.”

Current wording

We may be precluded from investing in what we believe are attractive investments if such investments are not qualifying assets for purposes of the 1940 Act. If we do not invest a sufficient portion of our assets in qualifying assets, we could violate the 1940 Act provisions applicable to BDCs. As a result of such violation, specific rules under the 1940 Act could prevent us, for example, from making follow-on investments in existing portfolio companies (which could result in the dilution of our position) or could require us to dispose of investments at inappropriate times in order to come into compliance with the 1940 Act. If we need to dispose of such investments quickly, it could be difficult to dispose of such investments on favorable terms. We may not be able to find a buyer for such investments and, even if we do find a buyer, we may have to sell the investments at a substantial loss. Any such outcomes could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

While the Federal Reserve raised interest rates throughout 2022 and 2023, it has held interest rates steady towards the end of 2023 and indicated that interest rate cuts may occur in 2024. These developments, along with domestic and international debt and credit concerns, could cause interest rates to be volatile, which may negatively impact our ability to access the debt markets on favorable terms. Interest rate changes may also affect the value of a debt instrument indirectly (especially in the case of fixed rate securities) and directly (especially in the case of instruments whose rates are adjustable). In general, rising interest rates will negatively impact the price of a fixed rate debt instrument and falling interest rates will have a positive effect on price. Adjustable rate instruments may also react to interest rate changes in a similar manner although generally to a lesser degree (depending, however, on the characteristics of the reset terms, including, among other factors, the index chosen, frequency of reset and reset caps or floors). Interest rate sensitivity is generally more pronounced and less predictable in instruments with uncertain payment or prepayment schedules. We expect that we will periodically experience imbalances in the interest rate sensitivities of our assets and liabilities and the relationships of various interest rates to each other. In a changing interest rate environment, we may not be able to manage this risk effectively, which in turn could adversely affect our performance.

Current wording

While the Federal Reserve raised interest rates throughout 2022 and 2023, as inflation pressures have eased in recent periods, the Federal Reserve has relaxed its monetary policies and cut the interest rates to support the broader economy. These developments, along with domestic and international debt and credit concerns, could cause interest rates to be volatile, which may negatively impact our ability to access the debt markets on favorable terms. Interest rate changes may also affect the value of a debt instrument indirectly (especially in the case of fixed rate securities) and directly (especially in the case of instruments whose rates are adjustable). In general, rising interest rates will negatively impact the price of a fixed rate debt instrument and falling interest rates will have a positive effect on price. Adjustable rate instruments may also react to interest rate changes in a similar manner although generally to a lesser degree (depending, however, on the characteristics of the reset terms, including, among other factors, the index chosen, frequency of reset and reset caps or floors). Interest rate sensitivity is generally more pronounced and less predictable in instruments with uncertain payment or prepayment schedules. We expect that we will periodically experience imbalances in the interest rate sensitivities of our assets and liabilities and the relationships of various interest rates to each other. In a changing interest rate environment, we may not be able to manage this risk effectively, which in turn could adversely affect our performance.

Previous wording

As a BDC, we are required to carry our investments at market value or, if no market value is ascertainable, at fair value as determined in good faith by the Advisor as described above in “—The majority of our portfolio investments are recorded at fair value as determined in good faith by the Advisor and, as a result, there may be uncertainty as to the value of our portfolio investments.”

Current wording

As a BDC, we are required to carry our investments at market value or, if no market value is ascertainable, at fair value as determined in good faith by the Advisor as the Valuation Designee as described above in “—The majority of our portfolio investments are recorded at fair value and, as a result, there may be uncertainty as to the value of our portfolio investments.”

Previous wording

At any time, the federal income tax laws governing RICs or the administrative interpretations of those laws or regulations may be amended. Any of those new laws, regulations or interpretations may take effect retroactively and could adversely affect the taxation of us or our shareholders. Therefore, changes in tax laws, regulations or administrative interpretations or any amendments thereto could diminish the value of an investment in our shares or the value or the resale potential of our investments.

Current wording

At any time, the federal income tax laws governing RICs or the administrative interpretations of those laws or regulations may be amended. Any of those new laws, regulations or interpretations may take effect retroactively and could adversely affect the taxation of us or our stockholders. Therefore, changes in tax laws, regulations or administrative interpretations or any amendments thereto could diminish the value of an investment in our shares or the value or the resale potential of our investments.

Previous wording

We intend to make distributions on a quarterly basis to our stockholders out of assets legally available for distribution. We cannot assure you that we will achieve investment results that will allow us to make a specified level of cash distributions or year-to-year increases in cash distributions. Our ability to pay distributions might be adversely affected by the impact of one or more of the risk factors described in this prospectus. If we are unable to satisfy the asset coverage test applicable to us as a BDC, or if we violate certain covenants under our debt agreements or any future credit or other borrowing facility, our ability to pay distributions to our stockholders could be limited because we may be required by its terms to use all payments of interest and principal that we receive from our current investments as well as any proceeds received from the sale of our current investments to repay amounts outstanding thereunder. All distributions will be paid at the discretion of our Board and will depend on our earnings, financial condition, maintenance of our RIC status, compliance with applicable BDC regulations, compliance with covenants under our debt agreements or any future credit or other borrowing facility and such other factors as our Board may deem relevant from time to time.

Current wording

We intend to make distributions on a quarterly basis to our stockholders out of assets legally available for distribution. We cannot assure you that we will achieve investment results that will allow us to make a specified level of cash distributions or year-to-year increases in cash distributions. Our ability to pay distributions might be adversely affected by the impact of one or more of the risk factors described in this Annual Report. If we are unable to satisfy the asset coverage test applicable to us as a BDC, or if we violate certain covenants under our debt agreements or any future credit or other borrowing facility, our ability to pay distributions to our stockholders could be limited because we may be required by its terms to use all payments of interest and principal that we receive from our current investments as well as any proceeds received from the sale of our current investments to repay amounts outstanding thereunder. All distributions will be paid at the discretion of our Board and will depend on our earnings, financial condition, maintenance of our RIC status, compliance with applicable BDC regulations, compliance with covenants under our debt agreements or any future credit or other borrowing facility and such other factors as our Board may deem relevant from time to time.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2019, we are no longer an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, or the JOBS Act. As a result, we are now required to comply with the independent auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act beginning with this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Complying with Section 404 requires a rigorous compliance program as well as adequate time and resources. We may not be able to complete our internal control evaluation, testing and any required remediation in a timely fashion. Additionally, if we identify one or more material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we will be unable to assert that our internal controls are effective. If we are unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our auditors are unable to attest to management’s report on the effectiveness of our internal controls, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, which would have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock.

Current wording

We are required to comply with the independent auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act beginning with this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Complying with Section 404 requires a rigorous compliance program as well as adequate time and resources. We may not be able to complete our internal control evaluation, testing and any required remediation in a timely fashion. Additionally, if we identify one or more material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we will be unable to assert that our internal controls are effective. If we are unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our auditors are unable to attest to management’s report on the effectiveness of our internal controls, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, which would have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock.

Previous wording

We may also invest a portion of our capital in debt securities issued by issuers domiciled in Europe, including issuers domiciled in the U.K. On January 31, 2020, the U.K. ended its membership in the European Union (commonly referred to as “Brexit”). Under the terms of the withdrawal agreement negotiated and agreed between the U.K. and the EU (the “EU Withdrawal Agreement”), the UK’s departure from the EU was followed by a transition period (the “Transition Period”), which ran until December 31, 2020. On December 31, 2021, the U.K. and the EU signed the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (“TCA”), which is an agreement on the terms governing certain aspects of the EU’s and UK’s relationship post Brexit. However, under the TCA, many aspects of the EU-UK relationship remain subject to further negotiation. The longer term economic, legal, political and social implications of Brexit are unclear at this stage. Brexit has led to ongoing political and economic uncertainty and periods of increased volatility in both the United Kingdom and in wider European markets for some time. In particular, Brexit could lead to calls for similar referendums in other European Union jurisdictions, which could cause increased economic volatility in the European and global markets. This mid- to long-term uncertainty could have adverse effects on the economy generally and on our ability to earn attractive returns. In particular, currency volatility could mean that our returns are adversely affected by market movements and could make it more difficult, or more expensive, for us to execute prudent currency hedging policies. Potential decline in the value of the British Pound and/or the Euro against other currencies, along with the potential further downgrading of the United Kingdom’s sovereign credit rating, could also have an impact on the performance of certain investments made in the United Kingdom or Europe.

Current wording

We may also invest a portion of our capital in debt securities issued by issuers domiciled in Europe, including issuers domiciled in the U.K. On January 31, 2020, the U.K. ended its membership in the European Union (commonly referred to as “Brexit”). Under the terms of the withdrawal agreement negotiated and agreed between the U.K. and the EU, the UK’s departure from the EU was followed by a transition period, which ran until December 31, 2020. On December 31, 2021, the U.K. and the EU signed the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (“TCA”), which is an agreement on the terms governing certain aspects of the EU’s and UK’s relationship post Brexit. However, under the TCA, many aspects of the EU-UK relationship remain subject to further negotiation. The longer term economic, legal, political and social implications of Brexit are unclear at this stage. Brexit has led to ongoing political and economic uncertainty and periods of increased volatility in both the United Kingdom and in wider European markets for some time. In particular, Brexit could lead to calls for similar referendums in other European Union jurisdictions, which could cause increased economic volatility in the European and global markets. This mid- to long-term uncertainty could have adverse effects on the economy generally and on our ability to earn attractive returns. In particular, currency volatility could mean that our returns are adversely affected by market movements and could make it more difficult, or more expensive, for us to execute prudent currency hedging policies. Potential decline in the value of the British Pound and/or the Euro against other currencies, along with the potential further downgrading of the United Kingdom’s sovereign credit rating, could also have an impact on the performance of certain investments made in the United Kingdom or Europe.

Previous wording

Certain of our portfolio companies may be impacted by inflation as well as actions by central banks or monetary authorities, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, to address inflation. If such portfolio companies are unable pass any increases in their costs along to their customers, it could adversely affect their results and their ability to impacting their ability to pay interest and principal on our loans. In addition, any projected future decreases in our portfolio companies’ operating results due to inflation could adversely impact the fair value of those investments. Any decreases in the fair value of our investments could result in future unrealized losses and therefore reduce our net assets resulting from operations.

Current wording

Certain of our portfolio companies may be impacted by inflation as well as actions by central banks or monetary authorities, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, to address inflation. If such portfolio companies are unable to pass any increases in their costs along to their customers, it could adversely affect their results and impact their ability to pay interest and principal on our loans. In addition, any projected future decreases in our portfolio companies’ operating results due to inflation could adversely impact the fair value of those investments. Any decreases in the fair value of our investments could result in future unrealized losses and therefore reduce our net assets resulting from operations.

Previous wording

In recent periods, the U.S. Federal Reserve and certain other central banks or monetary authorities have increased interest rates at significant levels and may continue to increase or maintain interest rates at increased levels. It is difficult to predict the magnitude or timing of these interest rate increases and the impact these actions will have on the Company’s portfolio companies and the markets where they operate.

Current wording

Actions by the U.S. Federal Reserve and certain other central banks or monetary authorities may have a significant effect on interest rates and on the economy generally, which in turn may affect the price of the securities in which the Company plans to invest. It is difficult to predict the magnitude or timing of these interest rate changes and the impact such actions will have on the Company’s portfolio companies and the markets where they operate.

Previous wording

Geopolitical events may continue to have a material adverse impact on us and our portfolio companies.

Current wording

Geopolitical events have a material adverse impact on us and our portfolio companies.

Previous wording

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scaled military invasion of Ukraine. In response, countries worldwide, including the United States, have imposed sanctions against Russia on certain businesses and individuals, including, but not limited to, those in the banking, import and export sectors. This invasion has led, is currently leading, and for an unknown period of time will continue to lead to disruptions in local, regional, national, and global markets and economies affected thereby. The recent outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East could also escalate to nearby areas. The extent and duration of these military actions, conflicts and resulting market disruptions are impossible to predict, but have been and could continue to be substantial, and any such market disruptions could affect our portfolio companies’ operations. As a result, our portfolio investments could decline in value or our valuation of them could become uncertain.

Current wording

In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, countries worldwide, including the United States, have imposed sanctions against Russia on certain businesses and individuals, including, but not limited to, those in the banking, import and export sectors. This invasion has led, is currently leading, and for an unknown period of time will continue to lead to disruptions in local, regional, national, and global markets and economies affected thereby. The outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East could also escalate further. The extent and duration of these military actions, conflicts and resulting market disruptions are impossible to predict, but have been and could continue to be substantial, and any such market disruptions could affect our portfolio companies’ operations. As a result, our portfolio investments could decline in value or our valuation of them could become uncertain.

Previous wording

Global climate change is widely considered to be a significant threat to the global economy. Real estate and similar assets in particular may face risks associated with climate change, including risks related to the impact of climate-related legislation and regulation (both domestically and internationally), risks related to climate-related business trends, and risks stemming from the physical impacts of climate change, such as the increasing frequency or severity of extreme weather events and rising sea levels and temperatures. Additionally, the Paris Agreement and other regulatory and voluntary initiatives launched by international, federal, state, and regional policymakers and regulatory authorities as well as private actors seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions may expose real estate and similar assets to so-called “transition risks” in addition to physical risks, such as: (i) political and policy risks (e.g., changing regulatory incentives and legal requirements, including with respect to greenhouse gas emissions, that could result in increased costs or changes in business operations), (ii) regulatory and litigation risks (e.g., changing legal requirements that could result in increased permitting, tax and compliance costs, changes in business operations, or the discontinuance of certain operations, and litigation seeking monetary or injunctive relief related to impacts related to climate change), (iii) technology and market risks (e.g., declining market for assets, products and services seen as greenhouse gas intensive or less effective than alternatives in reducing greenhouse gas emissions) and (iv) reputational risks (e.g., risks tied to changing investor, customer or community perceptions of an asset’s relative contribution to greenhouse gas emissions). We cannot rule out the possibility that climate risks, including changes in weather and climate patterns, could result in unanticipated delays or expenses and, under certain circumstances, could prevent completion of investment activities or the effective management of real estate and similar assets once undertaken, any of which could have a material adverse effect on an investment, or us.

Current wording

Global climate change is widely considered to be a significant threat to the global economy. Real estate and similar assets in particular may face risks associated with climate change, including risks related to the impact of climate-related legislation and regulation (both domestically and internationally), risks related to climate-related business trends, and risks stemming from the physical impacts of climate change, such as the increasing frequency or severity of extreme weather events and rising sea levels and temperatures. Additionally, regulatory and voluntary initiatives launched by international, federal, state, and regional policymakers and regulatory authorities as well as private actors seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions may expose real estate and similar assets to so-called “transition risks” in addition to physical risks, such as: (i) political and policy risks (e.g., changing regulatory incentives and legal requirements, including with respect to greenhouse gas emissions, that could result in increased costs or changes in business operations), (ii) regulatory and litigation risks (e.g., changing legal requirements that could result in increased permitting, tax and compliance costs, changes in business operations, or the discontinuance of certain operations, and litigation seeking monetary or injunctive relief related to impacts related to climate change), (iii) technology and market risks (e.g., declining market for assets, products and services seen as greenhouse gas intensive or less effective than alternatives in reducing greenhouse gas emissions) and (iv) reputational risks (e.g., risks tied to changing investor, customer or community perceptions of an asset’s relative contribution to greenhouse gas emissions). We cannot rule out the possibility that climate risks, including changes in weather and climate patterns, could result in unanticipated delays or expenses and, under certain circumstances, could prevent completion of investment activities or the effective management of real estate and similar assets once undertaken, any of which could have a material adverse effect on an investment, or us.

Previous wording

Our business faces increasing public scrutiny related to ESG activities, which are increasingly considered to contribute to the long-term sustainability of a company’s performance. A variety of organizations measure the performance of companies on ESG topics, and the results of these assessments are widely publicized. In addition, investment in funds that specialize in investing in companies that perform well in such assessments are increasingly popular, and major institutional investors have publicly emphasized the importance of such ESG measures to their investment decisions.

Current wording

Our business faces increasing public scrutiny related to environmental, social and governance ("ESG") activities, which are increasingly considered to contribute to the long-term sustainability of a company’s performance. A variety of organizations measure the performance of companies on ESG topics, and the results of these assessments are widely publicized. In addition, investment in funds that specialize in investing in companies that perform well in such assessments are increasingly popular, and major institutional investors have publicly emphasized the importance of such ESG measures to their investment decisions.

Previous wording

Our brand and reputation may be negatively impacted if we fail to act responsibly in a number of areas, such as considering ESG factors in our investment processes. Adverse incidents with respect to ESG activities could impact the value of our brand and our relationships with shareholders, which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Current wording

Our brand and reputation may be negatively impacted if we fail to act responsibly in a number of areas, such as considering ESG factors in our investment processes. Adverse incidents with respect to ESG activities could impact the value of our brand and our relationships with stockholders, which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

Additionally, new regulatory initiatives related to ESG could adversely affect our business. The SEC has proposed rules that, in addition to other matters, would establish a framework for reporting of climate-related risks. For example, the SEC has announced that it may require disclosure of certain ESG-related matters. There is a risk that a significant reorientation in the market following the implementation of these and further measures could be adverse to our portfolio companies if they are perceived to be less valuable as a consequence of, for example, their carbon footprint or “greenwashing” (i.e., the holding out of a product as having green or sustainable characteristics where this is not, in fact, the case). We are, and our portfolio companies may be, or could in the future become subject to the risk that similar measures might be introduced in other jurisdictions in the future. At this time, there is uncertainty regarding the scope of such proposals or when they would become effective (if at all). Compliance with any new laws or regulations increases our regulatory burden and could make compliance more difficult and expensive, affect the manner in which we or our portfolio companies conduct our businesses and adversely affect our profitability. On the other hand, certain state governments have begun to challenge the use of ESG factors in investment decisions, potentially setting up conflicting standards for the Company to address.

Current wording

Additionally, new regulatory initiatives related to ESG could adversely affect our business. The SEC has issued rules that, in addition to other matters, would establish a framework for reporting of climate-related risks. For example, the SEC has announced that it may require disclosure of certain ESG-related matters. There is a risk that a significant reorientation in the market following the implementation of these and further measures could be adverse to our portfolio companies if they are perceived to be less valuable as a consequence of, for example, their carbon footprint or “greenwashing” (i.e., the holding out of a product as having green or sustainable characteristics where this is not, in fact, the case). We are, and our portfolio companies may be, or could in the future become subject to the risk that similar measures might be introduced in other jurisdictions in the future. At this time, there is uncertainty regarding the scope of such proposals or when they would become effective (if at all). Compliance with any new laws or regulations increases our regulatory burden and could make compliance more difficult and expensive, affect the manner in which we or our portfolio companies conduct our businesses and adversely affect our profitability. On the other hand, certain state governments have begun to challenge the use of ESG factors in investment decisions, potentially setting up conflicting standards for the Company to address.