GLADSTONE CAPITAL CORP
For the period ended Sep 30, 2025. Filed Nov 17, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2025 · Filed Nov 17, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-09-30; filed 2024-11-13.
0001143513-24-000011
ITEM 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2025-09-30; filed 2025-11-17.
0001143513-25-000015
ITEM 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 217 previous paragraphs and 253 current paragraphs.
181 unchanged; 33 reworded; 37 added; 2 removed; 1 previous and 2 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 1 previous and 1 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (37)
Current report
Existing or new tariffs imposed on foreign goods imported by the U.S. or on U.S. goods imported by foreign countries could subject us or our portfolio companies to additional risks. Among other effects, tariffs could increase the cost of production for certain of our portfolio companies or reduce demand for their products, which could affect their results of operations. We cannot predict whether, or to what extent, any tariff or other trade protections may affect us or our portfolio companies.
Current report
In general, as market interest rates rise, notes bearing interest at a fixed rate generally decline in value because the premium, if any, over market interest rates will decline. Consequently, if you purchase the Notes and market interest rates increase, the market value of your Notes may decline. We cannot predict the future level of market interest rates.
Current report
Additional Risks Related to our 2030 Convertible Notes
Current report
We may not have the ability to raise the funds necessary to settle conversions of the 2030 Convertible Notes in cash or to repurchase the 2030 Convertible Notes upon a fundamental change, and our future debt may contain limitations on our ability to pay cash upon conversion or repurchase of the 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
Holders of the 2030 Convertible Notes will have the right to require us to repurchase all or any portion of their 2030 Convertible Notes upon the occurrence of a fundamental change at a fundamental change repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2030 Convertible Notes to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the fundamental change repurchase date. In addition, upon conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes, unless we elect to deliver solely shares of our common stock to settle such conversion (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional share), we will be required to make cash payments in respect of the 2030 Convertible Notes being converted. However, we may not have enough available cash or be able to obtain financing at the time we are required to make repurchases of 2030 Convertible Notes surrendered therefor or pay cash with respect to 2030 Convertible Notes being converted. In addition, our ability to repurchase the 2030 Convertible Notes or to pay cash upon conversions of the 2030 Convertible Notes may be limited by law, by regulatory authority or by agreements governing our future indebtedness. Our failure to repurchase Notes at a time when the repurchase is required by the indenture governing the 2030 Convertible Notes or to pay any cash payable on future conversions of the 2030 Convertible Notes as required by the indenture governing the 2030 Convertible Notes would constitute a default under the indenture governing the 2030 Convertible Notes. A default under the indenture governing the 2030 Convertible Notes or the fundamental change itself could also lead to a default under agreements governing our future indebtedness. If the repayment of the related indebtedness were to be accelerated after any applicable notice or grace periods, we may not have sufficient funds to repay the indebtedness and repurchase the 2030 Convertible Notes or make cash payments upon conversions thereof.
Current report
Recent and future regulatory actions and other events may adversely affect the trading price and liquidity of the 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
We expect that many investors in, and potential purchasers of, the 2030 Convertible Notes will employ, or seek to employ, a convertible arbitrage strategy with respect to the 2030 Convertible Notes. Investors would typically implement such a strategy by selling short the common stock underlying the 2030 Convertible Notes and dynamically adjusting their short position while continuing to hold the 2030 Convertible Notes. Investors may also implement this type of strategy by entering into swaps on our common stock in lieu of or in addition to short selling the common stock. We cannot assure you that market conditions will permit investors to implement this type of strategy, whether on favorable pricing and other terms or at all. If market conditions do not permit investors to implement this type of strategy, whether on favorable pricing and other terms or at all, at any time while the 2030 Convertible Notes are outstanding, the trading price and liquidity of the 2030 Convertible Notes may be adversely affected.
Current report
The SEC and other regulatory and self-regulatory authorities have implemented various rules and taken certain actions, and may in the future adopt additional rules and take other actions, that may impact those engaging in short selling activity involving equity securities (including our common stock). Such rules and actions include Rule 201 of SEC Regulation SHO, the adoption by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. and the national securities exchanges of a “Limit Up-Limit Down” program, the imposition of market-wide circuit breakers that halt trading of securities for certain periods following specific market declines, and the implementation of certain regulatory reforms required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010. Any governmental or regulatory action that restricts the ability of investors in, or potential purchasers of, the 2030 Convertible Notes to effect short sales of our common stock, borrow our common stock or enter into swaps on our common stock could adversely affect the trading price and the liquidity of the 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
In addition, the number of shares of our common stock available for lending in connection with short sale transactions and the number of counterparties willing to enter into an equity swap on our common stock with a Note investor may not be sufficient for the implementation of a convertible arbitrage strategy. These and other market events could make implementing a convertible arbitrage strategy prohibitively expensive or infeasible. We cannot assure you that a sufficient number of shares of our common stock will be available to borrow on commercial terms, or at all, to holders of the 2030 Convertible Notes. If purchasers of the 2030 Convertible Notes that seek to employ a convertible arbitrage strategy are unable to do so on commercial terms, or at all, then the trading price of, and the liquidity of the market for, the 2030 Convertible Notes may significantly decline.
Current report
Volatility in the market price and trading volume of our common stock could adversely impact the trading price of the 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
The stock market in recent years has experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated to the operating performance of companies. The market price of our common stock could fluctuate significantly for many reasons, including in response to the risks described in this Annual Report or the documents we have incorporated by reference in this Annual Report or for reasons unrelated to our operations, such as reports by industry analysts, investor perceptions or negative announcements by our customers, competitors or suppliers regarding their own performance, as well as industry conditions and general financial, economic and political instability. A decrease in the market price of our common stock would likely adversely impact the trading price of the 2030 Convertible Notes. The market price of our common stock could also be affected by possible sales of our common stock by investors who view the 2030 Convertible Notes as a more attractive means of equity participation in us and by hedging or arbitrage trading activity that we expect to develop involving our common stock. This trading activity could, in turn, affect the trading price of the 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
Conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes may dilute the ownership interest of our stockholders or may otherwise depress the price of our common stock.
Current report
The conversion of some or all of the 2030 Convertible Notes may dilute the ownership interests of our stockholders. Upon conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes, we have the option to pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of our common stock, or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock. If we elect to settle our conversion obligation in shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, any sales in the public market of our common stock issuable upon such conversion could adversely affect prevailing market prices of our common stock. In addition, the existence of the 2030 Convertible Notes may encourage short selling by market participants because the conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes could be used to satisfy short positions, or anticipated conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes into shares of our common stock could depress the price of our common stock.
Current report
The accounting method for the 2030 Convertible Notes could adversely affect our reported financial condition and results.
Current report
The accounting method for reflecting the 2030 Convertible Notes on our balance sheet, accruing interest expense for the 2030 Convertible Notes and reflecting the underlying shares of our common stock in our reported diluted earnings per share may adversely affect our reported earnings and financial condition.
Current report
In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Update 2020-06 (“ASU 2020-06”), the 2030 Convertible Notes are reflected as a liability on our balance sheets, with the initial carrying amount equal to the principal amount of the 2030 Convertible Notes, net of issuance costs. The issuance costs are treated as a debt discount for accounting purposes, which will be amortized into interest expense over the term of the 2030 Convertible Notes. As a result of this amortization, the expense that we recognize for the 2030 Convertible Notes for accounting purposes will be greater than the cash interest payments we pay on the 2030 Convertible Notes, which results in lower reported income.
Current report
In addition, we expect that the shares of common stock underlying the 2030 Convertible Notes will be reflected in our diluted earnings per share using the “if converted” method, in accordance with ASU 2020-06.
Current report
Under that method, diluted earnings per share are generally calculated assuming that all the 2030 Convertible Notes were converted solely into shares of common stock at the beginning of the reporting period, unless the result would be anti-dilutive. The application of the if-converted method may reduce our reported diluted earnings per share.
Current report
In addition, in the future, we may, in our sole discretion, irrevocably elect to settle the conversion value of the 2030 Convertible Notes in cash up to the principal amount being converted. Following such an irrevocable election, if the conversion value of the 2030 Convertible Notes exceeds their principal amount for a reporting period, then we will calculate our diluted earnings per share by assuming that all of the 2030 Convertible Notes were converted at the beginning of the reporting period and that we issued shares of our common stock to settle the excess, unless the result would be anti-dilutive.
Current report
Future sales of our common stock or equity-linked securities in the public market could lower the market price for our common stock and adversely impact the trading price of the 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
In the future, we may sell additional shares of our common stock or equity-linked securities to raise capital. In addition, a substantial number of shares of our common stock is reserved for issuance upon the exercise of conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes. We cannot predict the size of future issuances or the effect, if any, that they may have on the market price for our common stock. The issuance and sale of substantial amounts of common stock or equity-linked securities, or the perception that such issuances and sales may occur, could adversely affect the trading price of the 2030 Convertible Notes and the market price of our common stock and impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of additional equity or equity-linked securities.
Current report
Holders of 2030 Convertible Notes are not entitled to any rights with respect to our common stock, but they will be subject to all changes made with respect to our common stock to the extent our conversion obligation includes shares of our common stock.
Current report
Holders of 2030 Convertible Notes are not entitled to any rights with respect to our common stock (including, without limitation, voting rights and rights to receive any dividends or other distributions on our common stock) prior to the conversion date relating to such 2030 Convertible Notes (if we have elected to settle the relevant conversion by delivering solely shares of our common stock (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional share)) or the last trading day of the relevant observation period (if we elect to pay and deliver, as the case may be, a combination of cash and shares of our common stock in respect of the relevant conversion), but holders of 2030 Convertible Notes will be subject to all changes affecting our common stock. For example, if an amendment is proposed to our charter or bylaws requiring stockholder approval and the record date for determining the stockholders of record entitled to vote on the amendment occurs prior to the conversion date related to a holder’s conversion of its 2030 Convertible Notes (if we have elected to settle the relevant conversion by delivering solely shares of our common stock (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional share)) or the last trading day of the relevant observation period (if we elect to pay and deliver, as the case may be, a combination of cash and shares of our common stock in respect of the relevant conversion), such holder will not be entitled to vote on the amendment, although such holder will nevertheless be subject to any changes affecting our common stock.
Current report
Upon conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes, you may receive less valuable consideration than expected because the value of our common stock may decline after you exercise your conversion right but before we settle our conversion obligation.
Current report
Under the 2030 Convertible Notes, a converting holder will be exposed to fluctuations in the value of our common stock during the period from the date such holder surrenders 2030 Convertible Notes for conversion until the date we settle our conversion obligation.
Current report
Upon conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes, we have the option to pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of our common stock, or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock. If we elect to satisfy our conversion obligation in cash or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, the amount of consideration that you will receive upon conversion of your 2030 Convertible Notes will be determined by reference to the volume-weighted average price of our common stock for each trading day in a 40 trading day observation period. If the price of our common stock decreases during this period, the amount and/or value of consideration you receive will be adversely affected. In addition, if the market price of our common stock at the end of such period is below the average volume-weighted average price of our common stock during such period, the value of any shares of our common stock that you will receive in satisfaction of our conversion obligation will be less than the value used to determine the number of shares that you will receive.
Current report
If we elect to satisfy our conversion obligation solely in shares of our common stock upon conversion of the 2030 Convertible Notes, we will be required to deliver the shares of our common stock, together with cash for any fractional share, on the second business day following the relevant conversion date. Accordingly, if the price of our common stock decreases during this period, the value of the shares that you receive will be adversely affected and would be less than the conversion value of the 2030 Convertible Notes on the conversion date.
Current report
The increase in the conversion rate for 2030 Convertible Notes converted in connection with a make-whole fundamental change or a notice of redemption may not adequately compensate you for any lost value of your 2030 Convertible Notes as a result of such transaction or redemption.
Current report
If a make-whole fundamental change occurs prior to the maturity date or if we deliver a notice of redemption, we will, under certain circumstances, increase the conversion rate by a number of additional shares of our common stock for 2030 Convertible Notes converted in connection with such make-whole fundamental change or notice of redemption. The increase, if any, in the conversion rate for 2030 Convertible Notes converted in connection with a make-whole fundamental change or a notice of redemption may not adequately compensate you for any lost value of your 2030 Convertible Notes as a result of such transaction or redemption. In addition, if the “stock price” is greater than $32.50 per share or less than $23.65 per share (in each case, subject to adjustment), no additional shares will be added to the conversion rate. Moreover, in no event will the conversion rate per $1,000 principal amount of 2030 Convertible Notes as a result of this adjustment exceed 42.2834 shares of common stock, subject to adjustment in the same manner as the conversion rate. Our obligation to increase the conversion rate for 2030 Convertible Notes converted in connection with a make-whole fundamental change or a notice of redemption could be considered a penalty, in which case the enforceability thereof would be subject to general principles of reasonableness and equitable remedies.
Current report
The conversion rate of the 2030 Convertible Notes may not be adjusted for all dilutive events.
Current report
The conversion rate of the 2030 Convertible Notes is subject to adjustment for certain events, including, but not limited to, the issuance of certain stock dividends on our common stock, the issuance of certain rights or warrants, subdivisions, combinations, distributions of capital stock, indebtedness, or assets, cash dividends (excluding regular monthly dividends in an amount that do not exceed $0.165 per share) and certain issuer tender or exchange offers. However, the conversion rate will not be adjusted for other events, such as a third-party tender or exchange offer or an issuance of common stock for cash, that may adversely affect the trading price of the 2030 Convertible Notes or our common stock. An event that adversely affects the value of the 2030 Convertible Notes may occur, and that event may not result in an adjustment to the conversion rate.
Current report
Some significant restructuring transactions may not constitute a fundamental change, in which case we would not be obligated to offer to repurchase the 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
Upon the occurrence of a fundamental change, you have the right to require us to repurchase all or any portion of your 2030 Convertible Notes. However, the fundamental change provisions will not afford protection to holders of 2030 Convertible Notes in the event of other transactions that could adversely affect the 2030 Convertible Notes. For example, transactions such as leveraged recapitalizations, refinancings, restructurings, or acquisitions initiated by us may not constitute a fundamental change requiring us to offer to repurchase the 2030 Convertible Notes. In the event of any such transaction, the holders would not have the right to require us to repurchase 2030 Convertible Notes, even though each of these transactions could increase the amount of our indebtedness, or otherwise adversely affect our capital structure or any credit ratings, thereby adversely affecting the holders of 2030 Convertible Notes.
Current report
Certain provisions in the indenture governing the 2030 Convertible Notes may delay or prevent an otherwise beneficial takeover attempt of us.
Current report
Certain provisions in the indenture governing the 2030 Convertible Notes may make it more difficult or expensive for a third party to acquire us. For example, the indenture governing the 2030 Convertible Notes will require us, except as described in this Annual Report, to repurchase the 2030 Convertible Notes for cash upon the occurrence of a fundamental change and, in certain circumstances, to increase the conversion rate for a holder that converts its 2030 Convertible Notes in connection with a make-whole fundamental change. A takeover of us may trigger the requirement that we repurchase the 2030 Convertible Notes and/or increase the conversion rate, which could make it costlier for a potential acquirer to engage in such takeover. Such additional costs may have the effect of delaying or preventing a takeover of us that would otherwise be beneficial to investors.
Current report
You may be subject to tax if we make or fail to make certain adjustments to the conversion rate of the 2030 Convertible Notes even though you do not receive a corresponding cash distribution.
Current report
The conversion rate of the 2030 Convertible Notes is subject to adjustment in certain circumstances, including the payment of cash dividends (excluding regular monthly cash dividends in an amount that does not exceed $0.165 per share). If the conversion rate is adjusted as a result of a distribution that is taxable to our common stockholders, such as a cash dividend, you may be deemed to have received a dividend subject to U.S. federal income tax without the receipt of any cash. In addition, a failure to adjust (or to adjust adequately) the conversion rate after an event that increases your proportionate interest in us could be treated as a deemed taxable dividend to you. If a make-whole fundamental change occurs prior to the maturity date or if we deliver a notice of redemption, under some circumstances, we will increase the conversion rate for 2030 Convertible Notes converted in connection with the make-whole fundamental change or notice of redemption, as the case may be. Such increase also may be treated as a distribution subject to U.S. federal income tax as a dividend. If you are a non-U.S. Holder, any deemed dividend would be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at a 30% rate, or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable treaty, which may be set off against subsequent payments on the 2030 Convertible Notes or any common stock received upon conversion thereof or from any proceeds of any subsequent sale, exchange or other disposition of such 2030 Convertible Notes (including the retirement of such 2030 Convertible Notes) or such common stock by such non-U.S. Holder or other funds or assets of such non-U.S. Holder.
Removed paragraphs (2)
Previous report
Our business (including that of our portfolio companies) may face public scrutiny related to environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) activities. A variety of organizations measure the performance of companies on ESG topics, and the results of these assessments are widely publicized. Adverse incidents with respect to ESG activities could impact the value of our brand, our relationship with future portfolio companies, the cost of our operations and relationships with investors, all of which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Previous report
Additionally, new regulatory initiatives related to ESG that are applicable to us and our portfolio companies could adversely affect our business. The SEC has adopted rules that, among other matters, establish a framework for reporting of climate-related risks and other ESG-related rules have been proposed and these or similar rules may be adopted in the future. Compliance with these rules may be onerous and expensive. Further, compliance with any new laws, regulations or disclosure obligations 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.
Reworded paragraphs (33)
Previous wording
The market in which we operate is affected by a number of factors that are largely beyond our control but can nonetheless have a potentially significant, negative impact on us. These factors include, among other things:
Current wording
The market in which we operate is affected by a number of factors that are largely beyond our control but can nonetheless have a potentially significant, negative impact on us. These factors include:
Previous wording
•the national and global political environment, including war, armed conflicts, foreign relations and trading policies;
Current wording
•the national and global political environment, including government shutdowns, war, armed conflicts, foreign relations and trading policies;
Previous wording
Generally, interest rate fluctuations and changes in credit spreads on floating rate loans may have a negative impact on our investments and investment opportunities and, accordingly, may have a material adverse effect on our rate of return on invested capital, our net investment income, our NAV and the market price of our securities. As interest rates increase, generally, the cost of borrowing under our Credit Facility increases, which may affect our ability to make new investments on favorable terms or at all. A substantial portion of our debt investments have variable interest rates that reset periodically and are generally based on SOFR. As interest rates increase, the operating performance of certain of our portfolio companies has been affected by increasing debt service obligations and, therefore, may affect our results of operations. In addition, to the extent that further increases in interest rates make it difficult or impossible to make payments on outstanding indebtedness to us or other financial sponsors or refinance debt that is maturing in the near term, some of our portfolio companies may be unable to repay such debt at maturity and may be forced to sell assets, undergo a recapitalization or seek bankruptcy protection. Elevated interest rates could also cause borrowers to shift cash from other productive uses to the payment of interest, which may have a material adverse effect on their business and operations and could, over time, lead to increased defaults. Additionally, as interest rates increase and the corresponding risk of a default by borrowers increases, the liquidity of higher interest rate loans may decrease as fewer investors may be willing to purchase such loans in the secondary market in light of the increased risk of a default by the borrower and the heightened risk of a loss of an investment in such loans. Decreases in credit spreads on debt that pays a floating rate of return would have an impact on the income generation of our floating rate assets. Trading prices for debt that pays a fixed rate of return tend to fall as interest rates rise. Trading prices tend to fluctuate more for fixed rate securities that have longer maturities. If interest rates remain elevated or rise again in the future, it could have a negative effect on our investments, which could negatively impact our operating results, financial condition, and cash flows.
Current wording
Generally, interest rate fluctuations and changes in credit spreads on floating rate loans may have a negative impact on our investments and investment opportunities and, accordingly, may have a material adverse effect on our rate of return on invested capital, our net investment income, our NAV and the market price of our securities. As interest rates increase, generally, the cost of borrowing under our Credit Facility increases, which may affect our ability to make new investments on favorable terms or at all. A substantial portion of our debt investments have variable interest rates that reset periodically and are generally based on SOFR. If interest rates increase, the operating performance of certain of our portfolio companies may be affected by increasing debt service obligations and, therefore, may affect our results of operations. In addition, to the extent that increases in interest rates make it difficult or impossible to make payments on outstanding indebtedness to us or other financial sponsors or refinance debt that is maturing in the near term, some of our portfolio companies may be unable to repay such debt at maturity and may be forced to sell assets, undergo a recapitalization or seek bankruptcy protection. Elevated interest rates could also cause borrowers to shift cash from other productive uses to the payment of interest, which may have a material adverse effect on their business and operations and could, over time, lead to increased defaults. Additionally, as interest rates increase and the corresponding risk of a default by borrowers increases, the liquidity of higher interest rate loans may decrease as fewer investors may be willing to purchase such loans in the secondary market in light of the increased risk of a default by the borrower and the heightened risk of a loss of an investment in such loans. Decreases in credit spreads on debt that pays a floating rate of return would have an impact on the income generation of our floating rate assets. Trading prices for debt that pays a fixed rate of return tend to fall as interest rates rise. Trading prices tend to fluctuate more for fixed rate securities that have longer maturities. If interest rates remain elevated or rise again in the future, it could have a negative effect on our investments, which could negatively impact our operating results, financial condition, and cash flows.
Previous wording
We anticipate using a combination of equity and long-term and short-term borrowings to finance our investment activities. As a result, a portion of our income will depend upon the spread between the rate at which we borrow funds and the rate at which we loan these funds. An increase or decrease in interest rates could reduce the spread between the rate at which we invest and the rate at which we borrow, and thus, adversely affect our profitability if we have not appropriately hedged against such event. Alternatively, interest rate hedging arrangements may limit our ability to participate in the benefits of lower interest rates with respect to the hedged portfolio.
Current wording
We use a combination of equity and long-term and short-term borrowings to finance our investment activities. As a result, a portion of our income depends upon the spread between the rate at which we borrow funds and the rate at which we loan these funds. An increase or decrease in interest rates could reduce the spread between the rate at which we invest and the rate at which we borrow, and thus, adversely affect our profitability if we have not appropriately hedged against such event. Alternatively, interest rate hedging arrangements may limit our ability to participate in the benefits of lower interest rates with respect to the hedged portfolio.
Previous wording
As of September 30, 2024, based on the total principal balance of debt outstanding, our portfolio consisted of approximately 93.9% of loans at variable rates with floors and approximately 6.1% at fixed rates.
Current wording
As of September 30, 2025, based on the total principal balance of debt investments outstanding, our portfolio consisted of approximately 86.9% of loans at variable rates with floors and approximately 13.1% at fixed rates.
Previous wording
•Lower middle market companies may have limited financial resources and may not be able to repay the loans we make to them. Our strategy includes providing financing to portfolio companies that typically do not have readily available access to financing. While we believe that this provides an attractive opportunity for us to generate profits, this may make it difficult for the portfolio companies to repay their loans to us upon maturity. A borrower’s ability to repay its loan may be adversely affected by numerous factors, including the failure to meet its business plan, a downturn in its industry, or negative economic conditions, including those created by the current market environment. Deterioration in a borrower’s financial condition and prospects usually will be accompanied by deterioration in the value of any collateral and a reduction in the likelihood of us realizing on any guaranties we may have obtained from the borrower’s management. As of September 30, 2024, our loans to B+T Group Acquisition, Inc. (“B&T Group”), Edge Adhesives Holdings, Inc. (“Edge Adhesives”), and WB Xcel Holdings, LLC (“WB Xcel”) were on non-accrual status with a cost basis of $28.3 million, or 4.1% of the cost basis of all debt investments in our portfolio, and a fair value of $12.8 million, or 1.9% of the fair value of all debt investments in our portfolio. For any loans that are placed on non-accrual status, we cannot assure you that our efforts to improve profitability and cash flows of these companies will prove successful. In some of our portfolio companies we expect to be subordinated to a senior lender, and our interest in any collateral would, accordingly, likely be subordinate to another lender’s security interest.
Current wording
•Lower middle market companies may have limited financial resources and may not be able to repay the loans we make to them. Our strategy includes providing financing to portfolio companies that typically do not have readily available access to financing. While we believe that this provides an attractive opportunity for us to generate profits, this may make it difficult for the portfolio companies to repay their loans to us upon maturity. A borrower’s ability to repay its loan may be adversely affected by numerous factors, including the failure to meet its business plan, a downturn in its industry, or negative economic conditions, including those created by the current market environment. Deterioration in a borrower’s financial condition and prospects usually will be accompanied by deterioration in the value of any collateral and a reduction in the likelihood of us realizing on any guaranties we may have obtained from the borrower’s management. As of September 30, 2025, our loans to B+T Group Acquisition, Inc., Edge Adhesives Holdings, Inc., and WB Xcel Holdings, LLC were on non-accrual status with a cost basis of $28.8 million, or 3.6% of the cost basis of all debt investments in our portfolio, and a fair value of $13.0 million, or 1.7% of the fair value of all debt investments in our portfolio. For any loans that are placed on non-accrual status, we cannot assure you that our efforts to improve profitability and cash flows of these companies will prove successful. In some of our portfolio companies we expect to be subordinated to a senior lender, and our interest in any collateral would, accordingly, likely be subordinate to another lender’s security interest.
Previous wording
Our NAV would be adversely affected if the fair value of our investments are higher than the values that we ultimately realize upon the disposal of such securities.
Current wording
Our NAV would be adversely affected if fair values at which we record of our investments are higher than the values that we ultimately realize upon the disposal of such securities.
Previous wording
from the values that could be obtained if a ready market for these securities existed. Our NAV could be materially affected if the Adviser’s determinations regarding the fair value of our investments are materially different from the values that we
Current wording
from the values that could be obtained if a ready market for these securities existed. Our NAV could be materially affected
Previous wording
In addition to risks associated with delays in investing our capital, we are also subject to the risk that investments we make in our portfolio companies may be repaid prior to maturity. For the year ended September 30, 2024, we received unscheduled repayments of investments totaling $124.2 million. We will generally first use any proceeds from prepayments to repay any borrowings outstanding on our Credit Facility. In the event that funds remain after repayment of our outstanding borrowings, then we will generally reinvest these proceeds in government securities, pending their future investment in new debt and/or equity securities. These government securities will typically have substantially lower yields than the debt securities being prepaid and we could experience significant delays in reinvesting these amounts. In addition, once the proceeds have been reinvested in new portfolio companies, the yields on such new investments may also be lower than the yields on the debt securities being repaid. As a result, our results of operations could be materially adversely affected if one or more of our portfolio companies elect to prepay amounts owed to us. Additionally, prepayments could negatively impact our return on equity, which could result in a decline in the market price of our common stock.
Current wording
In addition to risks associated with delays in investing our capital, we are also subject to the risk that investments we make in our portfolio companies may be repaid prior to maturity. For the year ended September 30, 2025, we received unscheduled repayments of investments totaling $252.7 million. We will generally first use any proceeds from prepayments to repay any borrowings outstanding on our Credit Facility. In the event that funds remain after repayment of our outstanding borrowings, then we will generally reinvest these proceeds in government securities, pending their future investment in new debt and/or equity securities. These government securities will typically have substantially lower yields than the debt securities being prepaid and we could experience significant delays in reinvesting these amounts. In addition, once the proceeds have been reinvested in new portfolio companies, the yields on such new investments may also be lower than the yields on the debt securities being repaid. As a result, our results of operations could be materially adversely affected if one or more of our portfolio companies elect to prepay amounts owed to us. Additionally, prepayments could negatively impact our return on equity, which could result in a decline in the market price of our common stock.
Previous wording
As of September 30, 2024, we had investments in 49 portfolio companies, of which our five largest investments comprised approximately $232.7 million, or 29.2% of our total investment portfolio, at fair value. A consequence of a concentration in a limited number of investments is that the aggregate returns we realize may be substantially adversely affected by the unfavorable performance of a small number of such investments or a substantial write-down of any one investment. Beyond our regulatory and income tax diversification requirements, we do not have fixed guidelines for industry concentration and our investments could potentially be concentrated in relatively few industries. In addition, while we do not intend to invest 25.0% or more of our total assets in a particular industry or group of industries at the time of investment, it is possible that as the values of our portfolio companies change, one industry or a group of industries may comprise in excess of 25.0% of the value of our total assets. As of September 30, 2024, our largest industry concentrations of our total investments at fair value were in diversified/conglomerate service companies, representing 22.5%; diversified/conglomerate manufacturing companies, representing 20.1%; and aerospace and defense companies, representing 19.2%. Therefore, we are susceptible to the economic circumstances in these industries, and a downturn in one or more of these industries could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Current wording
As of September 30, 2025, we had investments in 55 portfolio companies, of which our five largest investments comprised approximately $196.5 million, or 22.9% of our total investment portfolio, at fair value. A consequence of a concentration in a limited number of investments is that the aggregate returns we realize may be substantially adversely affected by the unfavorable performance of a small number of such investments or a substantial write-down of any one investment. Beyond our regulatory and income tax diversification requirements as well as Credit Facility requirements, we do not have fixed guidelines for industry concentration and our investments could potentially be concentrated in relatively few industries. In addition, while we do not intend to invest 25.0% or more of our total assets in a particular industry or group of industries at the time of investment, it is possible that as the values of our portfolio companies change, one industry or a group of industries may comprise in excess of 25.0% of the value of our total assets. As of September 30, 2025, our largest industry concentrations of our total investments at fair value were in healthcare, education, and childcare companies, representing 31.8%; diversified/conglomerate manufacturing companies, representing 23.6%; and diversified/conglomerate service companies, representing 17.7%. Therefore, we are susceptible to the economic circumstances in these industries, and a downturn in one or more of these industries could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Previous wording
We will have a continuing need for capital to finance our investments. As of September 30, 2024, we had $70.6 million in borrowings, at cost, outstanding under our Credit Facility, which provides for maximum borrowings of $293.7 million, with a revolving period end date of October 31, 2025 (the “Revolving Period End Date”). Our Credit Facility permits us to fund additional loans and investments as long as we are within the conditions set forth in the credit agreement. Our Credit Facility contains covenants that require our wholly-owned subsidiary, Business Loan, to maintain its status as a separate legal entity, prohibit certain significant corporate transactions (such as mergers, consolidations, liquidations or dissolutions) and restrict material changes to our credit and collection policies without lenders’ consent. The Credit Facility also limits distributions to our stockholders on a fiscal year basis to the sum of our net investment income, net capital gains and amounts deemed to have been paid during the prior year in accordance with Section 855(a) of the Code. We are also subject to certain limitations on the type of loan investments we can make, including restrictions on geographic concentrations, sector concentrations, loan size, interest rate type, payment frequency and status, average life and lien property. Our Credit Facility further requires us to comply with other financial and operational covenants, which obligate us to, among other things, maintain certain financial ratios, including asset and interest coverage, and a minimum number of 25 obligors in the borrowing base. Additionally, we are required to maintain (i) a minimum net worth (defined in our Credit Facility to include any outstanding mandatorily redeemable preferred stock) of $325.0 million plus 50.0% of all equity and subordinated debt raised after May 13, 2021 less 50% of any equity and subordinated debt retired or redeemed after May 13, 2021, which equates to $418.8 million as of September 30, 2024, (ii) asset coverage with respect to “senior securities representing indebtedness” of at least 150% (or such percentage as may be set forth in Section 18 of the 1940 Act, as modified by Section 61 of the 1940 Act), and (iii) our status as a BDC under the 1940 Act and as a RIC under the Code. Continued compliance with the covenants in our Credit Facility depends on many factors, some of which are beyond our control.
Current wording
We will have a continuing need for capital to finance our investments. As of September 30, 2025, we had $0 in borrowings, at cost, outstanding under our Credit Facility, which provides for maximum borrowings of $320.0 million, with a revolving period end date of October 31, 2027 (the “Revolving Period End Date”). Our Credit Facility permits us to fund additional loans and investments as long as we are within the conditions set forth in the credit agreement. Our Credit Facility contains covenants that require our wholly-owned subsidiary, Business Loan, to maintain its status as a separate legal entity, prohibit certain significant corporate transactions (such as mergers, consolidations, liquidations or dissolutions) and restrict material changes to our credit and collection policies without lenders’ consent. The Credit Facility also limits distributions to our stockholders on a fiscal year basis to the sum of our net investment income, net capital gains and amounts deemed to have been paid during the prior year in accordance with Section 855(a) of the Code. We are also subject to certain limitations on the type of loan investments we can make, including restrictions on geographic concentrations, sector concentrations, loan size, interest rate type, payment frequency and status, average life and lien property. Our Credit Facility further requires us to comply with other financial and operational covenants, which obligate us to, among other things, maintain certain financial ratios, including asset and interest coverage, and a minimum number of 25 obligors in the borrowing base. Additionally, we are required to maintain (i) a minimum net worth (defined in our Credit Facility to include any outstanding mandatorily redeemable preferred stock) of $500.0 million plus 50.0% of all equity and subordinated debt raised after June 23, 2025 less 50% of any equity and subordinated debt retired or redeemed after June 23, 2025, which equates to $581.0 million as of September 30, 2025, (ii) asset coverage with respect to “senior securities representing indebtedness” of at least 150% (or such percentage as may be set forth in Section 18 of the 1940 Act, as modified by Section 61 of the 1940 Act), and (iii) our status as a BDC under the 1940 Act and as a RIC under the Code. Continued compliance with the covenants in our Credit Facility depends on many factors, some of which are beyond our control.
Previous wording
If our Credit Facility is not renewed or extended by the Revolving Period End Date, all principal and interest will be due and payable on or before October 31, 2027. Subject to certain terms and conditions, our Credit Facility may be expanded to a total of $350.0 million pursuant to an accordion feature. However, if additional lenders are unwilling to join the facility on its terms, we will be unable to expand the facility and thus will continue to have limited availability to finance new investments under our Credit Facility. There can be no guarantee that we will be able to renew, extend or replace our Credit Facility by the Revolving Period End Date on terms that are favorable to us, if at all. Our ability to expand our Credit Facility, and to obtain replacement financing at or before the Revolving Period End Date, will be constrained by then-current economic conditions affecting the credit markets. In the event that we are not able to expand our Credit Facility, or to renew, extend or refinance our Credit Facility by the Revolving Period End Date, this could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and ability to fund new investments, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders and our ability to qualify as a RIC under the Code.
Current wording
If our Credit Facility is not renewed or extended by the Revolving Period End Date, all principal and interest will be due and payable on or before October 31, 2029. Subject to certain terms and conditions, our Credit Facility may be expanded to a total of $400.0 million pursuant to an accordion feature. However, if additional lenders are unwilling to join the facility on its terms, we will be unable to expand the facility and thus will continue to have limited availability to finance new investments under our Credit Facility. There can be no guarantee that we will be able to renew, extend or replace our Credit Facility by the Revolving Period End Date on terms that are favorable to us, if at all. Our ability to expand our Credit Facility, and to obtain replacement financing at or before the Revolving Period End Date, will be constrained by then-current economic conditions affecting the credit markets. In the event that we are not able to expand our Credit Facility, or to renew, extend or refinance our Credit Facility by the Revolving Period End Date, this could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and ability to fund new investments, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders and our ability to qualify as a RIC under the Code.
Previous wording
•Senior Securities. We may issue “senior securities representing indebtedness” (such as borrowings under our Credit Facility and our notes payable) and “senior securities that are stock” (such as preferred stock) up to the maximum amount permitted by the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act currently permits us, as a BDC, to issue such senior securities in amounts such that our asset coverage, as defined in Section 18(h) of the 1940 Act, is at least 150% on such senior security immediately after each issuance of such senior security. As a result of issuing senior securities (in whatever form), we will be exposed to the risks associated with leverage. Although borrowing money for investments increases the potential for gain, it also increases the risk of a loss. A decrease in the value of our investments will have a greater impact on the value of our common stock to the extent that we have borrowed money to make investments. There is a possibility that the costs of borrowing could exceed the income we receive on the investments we make with such borrowed funds. In addition, our ability to pay distributions, issue senior securities or repurchase shares of our common stock would be restricted if the asset coverage on each of our senior securities is not at least 150%. If the aggregate value of our assets declines, we might be unable to satisfy that 150% requirement. To satisfy the 150% asset coverage requirement in the event that we are seeking to pay a distribution, we might either have to (i) liquidate a portion of our loan portfolio to repay a portion of our indebtedness or (ii) issue common stock. This may occur at a time when a sale of a portfolio asset may be disadvantageous, or when we have limited access to capital markets on agreeable terms. In addition, any amounts that we use to service our indebtedness, pay dividends on our preferred stock, or for offering expenses will not be available for distributions to common stockholders. Furthermore, if we have to issue common stock at below NAV per common share, any non-participating stockholders will be subject to dilution, as described below. Pursuant to Section 61(a)(3) of the 1940 Act, we are permitted to issue multiple classes of “senior securities representing indebtedness.” However, pursuant to Section 18(c) of the 1940 Act, we are permitted to issue only one class of “senior securities that are stock.”
Current wording
•Senior Securities. We may issue “senior securities representing indebtedness” (such as borrowings under our Credit Facility and our notes payable) and “senior securities that are stock” (such as preferred stock) up to the maximum amount permitted by the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act currently permits us, as a BDC, to issue such senior securities in amounts such that our asset coverage, as defined in Section 18(h) of the 1940 Act, is at least 150% on such senior security immediately after each issuance of such senior security. As a result of issuing senior securities (in whatever form), we will be exposed to the risks associated with leverage. Although borrowing money for investments increases the potential for gain, it also increases the risk of a loss. A decrease in the value of our investments will have a greater impact on the value of our common stock to the extent that we have borrowed money to make investments. There is a possibility that the costs of borrowing could exceed the income we receive on the investments we make with such borrowed funds. In addition, our ability to pay distributions, issue senior securities or repurchase shares of our common stock would be restricted if the asset coverage on each of our senior securities is not at least 150%. If the aggregate value of our assets declines, we might be unable to satisfy that 150% requirement. To satisfy the 150% asset coverage requirement in the event that we are seeking to pay a distribution, we might either have to (i) liquidate a portion of our loan portfolio to repay a portion of our indebtedness or (ii) issue common stock. This may occur at a time when a sale of a portfolio asset may be disadvantageous, or when we have limited access to capital markets on agreeable terms. In addition, any amounts that we use to service our indebtedness, pay dividends on our preferred stock, or for offering expenses will not be available for distributions to common stockholders. Furthermore, if we issue common stock at below NAV per common share, any non-participating stockholders will be subject to dilution, as described below. Pursuant to Section 61(a)(3) of the 1940 Act, we are permitted to issue multiple classes of “senior securities representing indebtedness.” However, pursuant to Section 18(c) of the 1940 Act, we are permitted to issue only one class of “senior securities that are stock.”
Previous wording
•Common and Convertible Preferred Stock. Because we are constrained in our ability to issue debt or senior securities for the reasons given above, we are dependent on the issuance of equity as a financing source. If we raise additional funds by issuing more common stock, the percentage ownership of our common stockholders at the time of the issuance would decrease and our existing common stockholder may experience dilution. In addition, under the 1940 Act, we will generally not be able to issue additional shares of our common stock at a price below NAV per common share to purchasers, other than to our existing common stockholders through a rights offering, without first obtaining the approval of our stockholders and our independent directors. If we were to sell shares of our common stock below our then-current NAV per common share, such sales would result in an immediate dilution to the NAV per common share. This dilution would occur as a result of the sale of common shares at a price below the then-current NAV per share of our common stock and a proportionately greater decrease in a common stockholder’s interest in our earnings and assets and voting percentage than the increase in our assets resulting from such issuance. For example, if we issue and sell an additional 10.0% of our common stock at a 5.0% discount to NAV, a common stockholder who does not participate in that offering for its proportionate interest will suffer NAV dilution of up to 0.5% or $5 per $1,000 of NAV. This imposes constraints on our ability to raise capital when our common stock is trading below NAV per common share. As noted above, the 1940 Act prohibits the issuance of multiple classes of “senior securities that are stock.”
Current wording
•Common and Convertible Preferred Stock. Because we are constrained in our ability to issue debt or senior securities for the reasons given above, we may at times be dependent on the issuance of equity as a financing source. If we raise additional funds by issuing more common stock, the percentage ownership of our common stockholders at the time of the issuance would decrease and our existing common stockholders may experience dilution. In addition, under the 1940 Act, we will generally not be able to issue additional shares of our common stock at a price below NAV per common share to purchasers, other than to our existing common stockholders through a rights offering, without first obtaining the approval of our stockholders and our independent directors. If we were to sell shares of our common stock below our then-current NAV per common share, such sales would result in an immediate dilution to the NAV per common share. This dilution would occur as a result of the sale of common shares at a price below the then-current NAV per share of our common stock and a proportionately greater decrease in a common stockholder’s interest in our earnings and assets and voting percentage than the increase in our assets resulting from such issuance. For example, if we issue and sell an additional 10.0% of our common stock at a 5.0% discount to NAV, a common stockholder who does not participate in that offering for its proportionate interest will suffer NAV dilution of up to 0.5% or $5 per $1,000 of NAV. This imposes constraints on our ability to raise capital when our common stock is trading below NAV per common share. As noted above, the 1940 Act prohibits the issuance of multiple classes of “senior securities that are stock.”
Previous wording
The use of leverage, including through the issuance of senior securities that are debt or stock, magnifies the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested, and, if we incur additional leverage, this potential will be further magnified. As of September 30, 2024, we incurred leverage through the Credit Facility, the Series A Preferred Stock, the 2026 Notes, the 2027 Notes, and the 2028 Notes. From time to time, we intend to incur additional leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. The use of leverage is generally considered a speculative investment technique and increases the risks associated with investing in our securities. In the future, we may borrow from, and issue senior securities, to banks and other lenders. Holders of these senior securities will have fixed dollar claims on our assets that are superior to the claims of our common stockholders, and we would expect such holders to seek recovery against our assets in the event of a default.
Current wording
The use of leverage, including through the issuance of senior securities that are debt or stock, magnifies the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested, and, if we incur additional leverage, this potential will be further magnified. As of September 30, 2025, we incurred leverage through the Credit Facility, the Series A Preferred Stock, the 5.125% Notes due 2026 (the “2026 Notes”), the 2027 Notes, the 7.75% Notes due 2028 (the “2028 Notes”), and the 2030 Convertible Notes. From time to time, we intend to incur additional leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. The use of leverage is generally considered a speculative investment technique and increases the risks associated with investing in our securities. In the future, we may borrow from, and issue senior securities, to banks and other lenders. Holders of these senior securities will have fixed dollar claims on our assets that are superior to the claims of our common stockholders, and we would expect such holders to seek recovery against our assets in the event of a default.
Previous wording
(A)The hypothetical return to common stockholders is calculated by multiplying our total assets as of September 30, 2024 by the assumed rates of return and subtracting all interest on our debt to be paid during the 12 months following September 30, 2024, and then dividing the resulting difference by our total net assets attributable to common stock as of September 30, 2024. Based on $812.5 million in total assets, $70.6 million drawn on our Credit Facility (at cost), $150.0 million in our 2026 Notes payable (at cost), $50.0 million in our 2027 Notes payable (at cost), $57.0 million in our 2028 Notes payable (at cost), $8.7 million in our Series A Preferred Stock (at cost), and $470.9 million in net assets, each as of September 30, 2024.
Current wording
(A)The hypothetical return to common stockholders is calculated by multiplying our total assets as of September 30, 2025 by the assumed rates of return and subtracting all interest on our debt to be paid during the 12 months following September 30, 2025, and then dividing the resulting difference by our total net assets attributable to common stock as of September 30, 2025. Based on $907.6 million in total assets, $0 drawn on our Credit Facility (at cost), $150.0 million in our 2026 Notes payable (at cost), $50.0 million in our 2027 Notes payable (at cost), $57.0 million in our 2028 Notes payable (at cost), $149.5 million in our 2030 Convertible Notes payable (at cost), $21.6 million in our Series A Preferred Stock (at cost), and $482.0 million in net assets, each as of September 30, 2025.
Previous wording
Based on an aggregate outstanding indebtedness of $336.3 million at cost as of September 30, 2024 and the effective annual cash interest rate of 6.0% as of that date, our investment portfolio at fair value would have had to produce an annual return of at least 2.5% to cover annual interest payments on the outstanding debt.
Current wording
Based on an aggregate outstanding indebtedness of $428.1 million at cost as of September 30, 2025 and the effective annual cash interest rate of 5.6% as of that date, our investment portfolio at fair value would have had to produce an annual return of at least 2.8% to cover annual interest payments on the outstanding debt.
Previous wording
To maintain our qualification as a RIC, we must meet income source, asset diversification, and annual distribution requirements. The annual distribution requirement is satisfied if we distribute at least 90.0% of our Investment Company Taxable Income to our stockholders on an annual basis. Because we use leverage, we are subject to certain asset coverage ratio requirements under the 1940 Act and could, under certain circumstances, be restricted from making distributions necessary to qualify as a RIC. Warrants we receive with respect to debt investments generally create OID, which we must recognize as ordinary income over the term of the debt investment. Similarly, PIK interest which is accrued generally over the term of the debt investment but not paid in cash, is recognized as ordinary income. Both OID and PIK interest will increase the amounts we are required to distribute to maintain our RIC status. Because such OIDs and PIK interest will not produce distributable cash for us at the same time as we are required to make distributions, we will need to use cash from other sources to satisfy such distribution requirements. For the year ended September 30, 2024, we recognized $0.4 million of OID income and the unamortized balance of OID investments as of September 30, 2024 totaled $0.6 million. As of September 30, 2024, we hadeight investments which had a PIK interest component and we recorded PIK interest income of $5.7 million during the year ended September 30, 2024. We collected $0.2 million in PIK interest in cash for the year ended September 30, 2024. Additionally, we must meet asset diversification and income source requirements at the end of each calendar quarter. If we fail to meet these tests, we may need to quickly dispose of certain investments to prevent the loss of RIC status. Since most of our investments will be illiquid, such dispositions, if even possible, may not be made at prices advantageous to us and may result in substantial losses. If we fail to qualify as a RIC as of a calendar quarter or annually for any reason and become fully subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax, the resulting corporate taxes could substantially reduce our net assets, the amount of income available for distribution, and the actual amount distributed. Such a failure would have a material adverse effect on us and our common stock.
Current wording
To maintain our qualification as a RIC, we must meet income source, asset diversification, and annual distribution requirements. The annual distribution requirement is satisfied if we distribute at least 90.0% of our Investment Company Taxable Income to our stockholders on an annual basis. Because we use leverage, we are subject to certain asset coverage ratio requirements under the 1940 Act and could, under certain circumstances, be restricted from making distributions necessary to qualify as a RIC. Warrants we receive with respect to debt investments generally create OID, which we must recognize as ordinary income over the term of the debt investment. Similarly, PIK interest which is accrued generally over the term of the debt investment but not paid in cash, is recognized as ordinary income. Both OID and PIK interest will increase the amounts we are required to distribute to maintain our RIC status. Because such OIDs and PIK interest will not produce distributable cash for us at the same time as we are required to make distributions, we will need to use cash from other sources to satisfy such distribution requirements. For the year ended September 30, 2025, we recognized $0.4 million of OID income and the unamortized balance of OID investments as of September 30, 2025 totaled $0.2 million. As of September 30, 2025, we hadnine investments which had a PIK interest component and we recorded PIK interest income of $5.0 million during the year ended September 30, 2025. We collected $7.2 million in PIK interest in cash for the year ended September 30, 2025. Additionally, we must meet asset diversification and income source requirements at the end of each calendar quarter. If we fail to meet these tests, we may need to quickly dispose of certain investments to prevent the loss of RIC status. Since most of our investments will be illiquid, such dispositions, if even possible, may not be made at prices advantageous to us and may result in substantial losses. If we fail to qualify as a RIC as of a calendar quarter or annually for any reason and become fully subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax, the resulting corporate taxes could substantially reduce our net assets, the amount of income available for distribution, and the actual amount distributed. Such a failure would have a material adverse effect on us and our common stock.
Previous wording
Regulations governing our operation as a BDC and RIC will affect our ability to raise, and the way in which we raise, additional capital or borrow for investment purposes, which may have a negative effect on our growth. As a result of the annual distribution requirement to qualify as a RIC, we may need to periodically access the capital markets to raise cash to fund new investments. We may issue “senior securities representing indebtedness,” including borrowing money from banks or other financial institutions or “senior securities that are stock,” such as preferred stock, only in amounts such that our asset coverage on each senior security, as defined in the 1940 Act, equals at least 150% after each such incurrence or issuance. Further, we may not be permitted to declare a dividend or make any distribution to our outstanding stockholders or repurchase shares until such time as we satisfy these tests. Our ability to issue different types of securities is also limited. Compliance with these requirements may unfavorably limit our investment opportunities and reduce our ability in comparison to other companies to profit from favorable spreads between the rates at which we can borrow and the rates at which we can lend. As a BDC, therefore, we may issue equity at a rate more frequent than our privately owned competitors, which may lead to greater stockholder dilution. We have incurred leverage to generate capital to make additional investments. If the value of our assets declines, we may be unable to satisfy the asset coverage test under the 1940 Act, which could prohibit us from paying distributions and could prevent us from qualifying as a RIC. If we cannot satisfy the asset coverage test, we may be required to sell a portion of our investments and, depending on the nature of our debt financing, repay a portion of our indebtedness at a time when such sales and repayments may be disadvantageous.
Current wording
Regulations governing our operation as a BDC and RIC will affect our ability to raise, and the way in which we raise, additional capital or borrow for investment purposes, which may have a negative effect on our growth. As a result of the annual distribution requirement to qualify as a RIC, we may need to periodically access the capital markets to raise cash to fund new investments. We may issue “senior securities representing indebtedness,” including borrowing money from banks or other financial institutions or “senior securities that are stock,” such as preferred stock, only in amounts such that our asset coverage on each senior security, as defined in the 1940 Act, equals at least 150% after each such incurrence or issuance. Further, we may not be permitted to declare a dividend or make any distribution to our outstanding stockholders or repurchase shares until such time as we satisfy these tests. Our ability to issue different types of securities is also limited. Compliance with these requirements may unfavorably limit our investment opportunities and reduce our ability in comparison to other companies to profit from favorable spreads between the rates at which we can borrow and the rates at which we can lend. As a BDC, therefore, we may issue equity at a rate more frequent than our privately owned competitors, which may lead to greater stockholder dilution. We have incurred leverage to generate capital to make additional investments. If the value of our assets declines, we may be unable to satisfy the asset coverage test under the
Previous wording
We are dependent upon our key management personnel and the key management personnel of the Adviser, particularly David Gladstone, Terry Lee Brubaker and Robert L. Marcotte, and on the continued operations of the Adviser, for our future success.
Current wording
We are dependent upon our key management personnel and the key management personnel of the Adviser, particularly David Gladstone and Robert L. Marcotte, and on the continued operations of the Adviser, for our future success.
Previous wording
We have no employees. Our chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief financial officer and treasurer, and the employees of the Adviser do not spend all of their time managing our activities and our investment portfolio. We are particularly dependent upon David Gladstone, Terry Lee Brubaker, and Robert L. Marcotte for their experience, skills and networks. Our executive officers and the employees of the Adviser allocate some, and in some cases a material portion, of their time to businesses and activities that are not related to our business. We have no separate facilities and are completely reliant on the Adviser, which has significant discretion as to the implementation and execution of our business strategies and risk management practices. We are subject to the risk of discontinuation of the Adviser’s operations or termination of the Advisory Agreement and the risk that, upon such event, no suitable replacement will be found. We believe that our success depends to a significant extent upon the Adviser and that discontinuation of its operations or the loss of its key management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our ability to achieve our investment objectives.
Current wording
We have no employees. Our chief executive officer, chief financial officer and treasurer, and the employees of the Adviser do not spend all of their time managing our activities and our investment portfolio. We are particularly dependent upon David Gladstone and Robert L. Marcotte for their experience, skills and networks. Our executive officers and the employees of the Adviser allocate some, and in some cases a material portion, of their time to businesses and activities that are not related to our business. We have no separate facilities and are completely reliant on the Adviser, which has significant discretion as to the implementation and execution of our business strategies and risk management practices. We are subject to the risk of discontinuation of the Adviser’s operations or termination of the Advisory Agreement and the risk that, upon such event, no suitable replacement will be found. We believe that our success depends to a significant extent upon the Adviser and that discontinuation of its operations or the loss of its key management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our ability to achieve our investment objectives.
Previous wording
The management compensation structure that has been implemented under the Advisory Agreement may cause the Adviser to invest in high-risk investments or take other risks. In addition to its management fee, the Adviser is entitled under the Advisory Agreement to receive incentive compensation based in part upon our achievement of specified levels of income. In evaluating investments and other management strategies, the opportunity to earn incentive compensation based on net investment income may lead the Adviser to place undue emphasis on the maximization of net investment income at the expense of other criteria, such as preservation of capital, maintaining sufficient liquidity, or management of credit risk or market risk, in order to achieve higher incentive compensation. Investments with higher yield potential are generally riskier or more speculative. This could result in increased risk to the value of our investment portfolio.
Current wording
The incentive fee structure that has been implemented under the Advisory Agreement may cause the Adviser to invest in high-risk investments or take other risks. In addition to its management fee, the Adviser is entitled under the Advisory Agreement to receive incentive compensation based in part upon our achievement of specified levels of income. In evaluating investments and other management strategies, the opportunity to earn incentive compensation based on net investment income may lead the Adviser to place undue emphasis on the maximization of net investment income at the expense of other criteria, such as preservation of capital, maintaining sufficient liquidity, or management of credit risk or market risk, in order to achieve higher incentive compensation. Investments with higher yield potential are generally riskier or more speculative. This could result in increased risk to the value of our investment portfolio.
Previous wording
That part of the incentive fee payable by us that relates to our net investment income is computed and paid on income that may include interest that has been accrued but not yet received in cash, such as debt instruments with PIK interest or OID. If a portfolio company defaults on a loan, it is possible that such accrued interest previously used in the calculation of the incentive fee will become uncollectible. Consequently, we may make incentive fee payments on income accruals that we may not collect in the future and with respect to which we do not have a clawback right against the Adviser. Our OID investments totaled $56.9 million as of September 30, 2024, at cost. For the year ended September 30, 2024, we recognized $0.4 million of OID income and the unamortized balance of OID investments as of September 30, 2024 totaled $0.6 million. As of September 30, 2024, we hadeight investments which had a PIK interest component and we recorded PIK interest income of $5.7 million during the year ended September 30, 2024. We collected $0.2 million in PIK interest in cash for the year ended September 30, 2024.
Current wording
That part of the incentive fee payable by us that relates to our net investment income is computed and paid on income that may include interest that has been accrued but not yet received in cash, such as debt instruments with PIK interest or OID. If a portfolio company defaults on a loan, it is possible that such accrued interest previously used in the calculation of the incentive fee will become uncollectible. Consequently, we may make incentive fee payments on income accruals that we may not collect in the future and with respect to which we do not have a clawback right against the Adviser. Our OID investments totaled $49.0 million as of September 30, 2025, at cost. For the year ended September 30, 2025, we recognized $0.4 million of OID income and the unamortized balance of OID investments as of September 30, 2025 totaled $0.2 million. As of September 30, 2025, we hadnine investments which had a PIK interest component and we recorded PIK interest income of $5.0 million during the year ended September 30, 2025. We collected $7.2 million in PIK interest in cash for the year ended September 30, 2025.
Previous wording
Our executive officers and directors, and the officers and directors of the Adviser, serve or may serve as officers, directors, or principals of entities that operate in the same or a related line of business as we do or of investment funds managed by our affiliates. Accordingly, they may have obligations to investors in those entities, the fulfillment of which might not be in our or our stockholders’ best interests. For example, Mr. Gladstone, our chairman and chief executive officer, is the chairman of the board and chief executive officer of each of the Gladstone Companies. In addition, Mr. Brubaker, our chief operating officer, is the vice chairman and chief operating officer of the Adviser and Administrator. Mr. Marcotte is an executive vice president of the Adviser. While portfolio managers and the officers and other employees of the Adviser devote as much time to the management of us as appropriate to enable the Adviser to perform its duties in accordance with the Advisory Agreement, the portfolio managers and other of the Adviser's officers may have conflicts in allocating their time and services among us, on the one hand, and other investment vehicles managed by the Adviser, on the other hand. These activities could be viewed as creating a conflict of interest insofar as the time and effort of the portfolio managers and the officers and employees of the Adviser will not be devoted exclusively to our business but will instead be allocated between our business and the management of these other investment vehicles. Moreover, the Adviser may establish or sponsor other investment vehicles which from time to time may have potentially overlapping investment objectives with ours and accordingly may invest in, whether principally or secondarily, asset classes we target. While the Adviser generally has broad authority to make investments on behalf of the investment vehicles that it advises, the Adviser has adopted investment allocation procedures to address these potential conflicts and intends to direct investment opportunities to us or the Affiliated Public Fund with the investment strategy that most closely fits the investment opportunity. Nevertheless, the management of the Adviser may face conflicts in the allocation of investment opportunities to other entities it manages. As a result, it is possible that we may not be given the opportunity to participate in certain investments made by other funds managed by the Adviser. In certain circumstances, we may make investments in a portfolio company in which one of our affiliates has or will have an investment, subject to satisfaction of any regulatory restrictions and, where required, to the prior approval of our Board of Directors. As of September 30, 2024, our Board of Directors has approved the following types of co-investment transactions:
Current wording
Our executive officers and directors, and the officers and directors of the Adviser, serve or may serve as officers, directors, or principals of entities that operate in the same or a related line of business as we do or of investment funds managed by our affiliates. Accordingly, they may have obligations to investors in those entities, the fulfillment of which might not be in our or our stockholders’ best interests. For example, Mr. Gladstone, our chairman and chief executive officer, is the chairman of the board and chief executive officer of each of the Gladstone Companies. In addition, Mr. Marcotte is an executive vice president of the Adviser. While portfolio managers and the officers and other employees of the Adviser devote as much time to the management of us as appropriate to enable the Adviser to perform its duties in accordance with the Advisory Agreement, the portfolio managers and other of the Adviser's officers may have conflicts in allocating their time and services among us, on the one hand, and other investment vehicles managed by the Adviser, on the other hand. These activities could be viewed as creating a conflict of interest insofar as the time and effort of the portfolio managers and the officers and employees of the Adviser will not be devoted exclusively to our business but will instead be allocated between our business and the management of these other investment vehicles. Moreover, the Adviser may establish or sponsor other investment vehicles which from time to time may have potentially overlapping investment objectives with ours and accordingly may invest in, whether principally or secondarily, asset classes we target. While the Adviser generally has broad authority to make investments on behalf of the investment vehicles that it advises, the Adviser has adopted investment allocation procedures to address these potential conflicts and intends to direct investment opportunities to us or the Affiliated Public Fund with the investment strategy that most closely fits the investment opportunity. Nevertheless, the management of the Adviser may face conflicts in the allocation of investment opportunities to other entities it manages. As a result, it is possible that we may not be given the opportunity to participate in certain investments made by other funds managed by the Adviser. In certain circumstances, we may make investments in a portfolio company in which one of our affiliates has or will have an investment, subject to satisfaction of any regulatory restrictions and, where required, to the prior approval of our Board of Directors. As of September 30, 2025, our Board of Directors has approved the following types of co-investment transactions:
Previous wording
Risks Related to the 2026 Notes, 2027 Notes, and 2028 Notes (collectively, the “Notes”)
Current wording
Risks Related to the 2027 Notes and 2030 Convertible Notes (collectively, the “Notes”)
Previous wording
The Notes are obligations exclusively of the Company and not of any of our subsidiaries. None of our subsidiaries is a guarantor of the Notes and the Notes are not required to be guaranteed by any subsidiaries we may acquire or create in the future. Except to the extent we are a creditor with recognized claims against our subsidiaries, all claims of creditors of our subsidiaries will have priority over our equity interests in such subsidiaries (and therefore the claims of our creditors, including holders of the Notes) with respect to the assets of such subsidiaries. Even if we are recognized as a creditor of one or more of our subsidiaries, our claims would still be effectively subordinated to any security interests in the assets of any such subsidiary and to any indebtedness or other liabilities of any such subsidiary senior to our claims. Consequently, the Notes are structurally subordinated to all indebtedness and other liabilities of any of our subsidiaries and any subsidiaries that we may in the future acquire or establish. As of September 30, 2024, there was $70.6 million outstanding under the Credit Facility. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are the obligation of Business Loan, and are structurally senior to the Notes. In addition, our subsidiaries may incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future, all of which would be structurally senior to the Notes.
Current wording
The Notes are obligations exclusively of the Company and not of any of our subsidiaries. None of our subsidiaries is a guarantor of the Notes and the Notes are not required to be guaranteed by any subsidiaries we may acquire or create in the future. Except to the extent we are a creditor with recognized claims against our subsidiaries, all claims of creditors of our subsidiaries will have priority over our equity interests in such subsidiaries (and therefore the claims of our creditors, including holders of the Notes) with respect to the assets of such subsidiaries. Even if we are recognized as a creditor of one or more of our subsidiaries, our claims would still be effectively subordinated to any security interests in the assets of any such subsidiary and to any indebtedness or other liabilities of any such subsidiary senior to our claims. Consequently, the Notes are structurally subordinated to all indebtedness and other liabilities of any of our subsidiaries and any subsidiaries that we may in the future acquire or establish. As of September 30, 2025, there was $0 outstanding under the Credit Facility. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are the obligation of Business Loan, and are structurally senior to the Notes. In addition, our subsidiaries may incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future, all of which would be structurally senior to the Notes.
Previous wording
•pay dividends on, or purchase or redeem or make any payments in respect of, capital stock or other securities ranking junior in right of payment to the Notes, including preferred stock and any subordinated indebtedness, other than, dividends, purchases, redemptions or payments that would cause our asset coverage to fall below the threshold specified in Section 18(a)(1)(B) as modified by Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act or any successor provisions, giving effect to any no-action relief granted by the SEC to another BDC and upon which we may reasonably rely (or to us if we determine to seek such similar SEC no-action or other relief) permitting the BDC to declare any cash dividend or distribution notwithstanding the prohibition contained in Section 18(a)(1)(B) as modified by Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act in order to maintain the BDC’s status as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code;
Current wording
•with respect to the 2027 Notes, pay dividends on, or purchase or redeem or make any payments in respect of, capital stock or other securities ranking junior in right of payment to the Notes, including preferred stock and any subordinated indebtedness, other than, dividends, purchases, redemptions or payments that would cause our asset coverage to fall below the threshold specified in Section 18(a)(1)(B) as modified by Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act or any successor provisions, giving effect to any no-action relief granted by the SEC to another BDC and upon which we may reasonably rely (or to us if we determine to seek such similar SEC no-action or other relief) permitting the BDC to declare any cash dividend or distribution notwithstanding the prohibition contained in Section 18(a)(1)(B) as modified by Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act in order to maintain the BDC’s status as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code;
Previous wording
In addition, the indenture with respect to the 2028 Notes does not require us to make an offer to purchase the 2028 Notes in connection with a change of control or any other event whereas, under the terms of the respective indentures governing the 2026 Notes and the 2027 Notes, the holders of the 2026 Notes and the 2027 Notes, respectively, may require us to repurchase 100% of such notes upon the occurrence of a “Change of Control Repurchase Event,” which would occur upon certain changes of control that result in a downgrade in such notes below investment grade.
Current wording
Under the terms of the indentures governing the Notes, the holders of the 2027 Notes and 2030 Convertible Notes may require us to repurchase 100% of such notes upon the occurrence of a “Change of Control Repurchase Event,” which would occur upon certain changes of control that result in a downgrade in such notes below investment grade or “fundamental change”, respectively.
Previous wording
We have not listed, and do not intend to list in the future, the 2026 Notes and 2027 Notes on any securities exchange or for quotation of the Notes on any automated dealer quotation system. Although the 2028 Notes are listed on Nasdaq, they may trade at a discount to their purchase price depending on prevailing interest rates, the market for similar securities, our credit ratings, our financial condition, performance and prospects, general economic conditions or other relevant factors. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that a liquid trading market will develop and/or be maintained for any of the Notes, that a holder will be able to sell its Notes at a particular time or that the price received when a holder sells its Notes will be favorable. To the extent an active trading market does not develop or is not maintained, the liquidity and trading price for the Notes may be harmed. Accordingly, the holder of a Note may be required to bear the financial risk of an investment in the Notes for an indefinite period of time.
Current wording
We have not listed, and do not intend to list in the future, the 2027 Notes and the 2030 Convertible Notes on any securities exchange or for quotation of the Notes on any automated dealer quotation system. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that a liquid trading market will develop and/or be maintained for any of the Notes, that a holder will be able to sell its Notes at a particular time or that the price received when a holder sells its Notes will be favorable. To the extent an active trading market does not develop or is not maintained, the liquidity and trading price for the Notes may be harmed. Accordingly, the holder of a Note may be required to bear the financial risk of an investment in the Notes for an indefinite period of time.
Previous wording
The 2026 Notes and the 2027 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at the Company’s option prior to maturity at par plus a “make-whole” premium, if applicable. In addition, the 2028 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time at our option on or after September 1, 2025. If prevailing rates are lower at the time of redemption, and we redeem the Notes, you likely would not be able to reinvest the redemption proceeds in a comparable security at an effective interest rate as high as the interest rate on the Notes being redeemed.
Current wording
The 2027 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at the Company’s option prior to maturity at par plus a “make-whole” premium, if applicable. We may not redeem the 2030 Convertible Notes prior to October 6, 2028. We may redeem for cash all or any portion of the 2030 Convertible Notes (subject to the “partial redemption limitation”), at our option, on a redemption date on or after October 6, 2028 and on or before the 45th scheduled trading day immediately prior to the maturity date if the last reported sale price of our common stock has been at least 130% of the conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during any 30 consecutive trading day period (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which we provide notice of redemption at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2030 Convertible Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. If prevailing rates are lower at the time of redemption, and we redeem the Notes, you likely would not be able to reinvest the redemption proceeds in a comparable security at an effective interest rate as high as the interest rate on the Notes being redeemed.
Previous wording
We may not be able to repurchase the 2026 Notes or 2027 Notes upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event.
Current wording
We may not be able to repurchase the 2027 Notes upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event.
Previous wording
We may not be able to repurchase the 2026 Notes or 2027 Notes upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event (as defined in the indenture governing such Notes) because we may not have sufficient funds. We would not be able to borrow under our Credit Facility to finance such a repurchase of the 2026 Notes or 2027 Notes, and we expect that any future credit facility would have similar limitations. Upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event, holders of the 2026 Notes or 2027 Notes may require us to repurchase for cash some or all of such Notes at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes being repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the repurchase date. The terms of our Credit Facility also provide that certain change of control events will constitute an event of default thereunder entitling the lenders to accelerate any indebtedness outstanding under our Credit Facility at that time and to terminate our Credit Facility. Our failure to purchase such tendered Notes upon the occurrence of such Change of Control Repurchase Event would cause an event of default under the indenture governing the Notes and a cross-default under the agreements governing the Credit Facility, which may result in the acceleration of such indebtedness requiring us to repay that indebtedness immediately. If the holders of the 2026 Notes or 2027 Notes exercise their right to require us to repurchase such Notes upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event, the financial effect of this repurchase could cause a default under our current and future debt instruments, and we may not have sufficient funds to repay any such accelerated indebtedness.
Current wording
We may not be able to repurchase the 2027 Notes upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event (as defined in the indenture governing such Notes) because we may not have sufficient funds. We would not be able to borrow under our Credit Facility to finance such a repurchase of the 2027 Notes, and we expect that any future credit facility would have similar limitations. Upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event, holders of the 2027 Notes may require us to repurchase for cash some or all of such Notes at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes being repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the repurchase date. The terms of our Credit Facility also provide that certain change of control events will constitute an event of default thereunder entitling the lenders to accelerate any indebtedness outstanding under our Credit Facility at that time and to terminate our Credit Facility. Our failure to purchase such tendered Notes upon the occurrence of such Change of Control Repurchase Event would cause an event of default under the indenture governing the Notes and a cross-default under the agreements governing the Credit Facility, which may result in the acceleration of such indebtedness requiring us to repay that indebtedness immediately. If the holders of the 2027 Notes exercise their right to require us to repurchase such Notes upon a Change of Control Repurchase Event, the financial effect of this repurchase could cause a default under our current and future debt instruments, and we may not have sufficient funds to repay any such accelerated indebtedness.
Previous wording
There will be no public market for the Series A Preferred Stock as we do not intend to apply for listing on a national securities exchange unless the Share Repurchase Program is terminated.
Current wording
There is no public market for the Series A Preferred Stock as we do not intend to apply for listing on a national securities exchange unless the Share Repurchase Program is terminated.
Rearranged current paragraphs (2)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
if the Adviser’s determinations regarding the fair value of our investments are materially different from the values that we
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
1940 Act, which could prohibit us from paying distributions and could prevent us from qualifying as a RIC. If we cannot satisfy the asset coverage test, we may be required to sell a portion of our investments and, depending on the nature of our debt financing, repay a portion of our indebtedness at a time when such sales and repayments may be disadvantageous. Such events, if they were to occur, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Such events, if they were to occur, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.