Palmer Square Capital BDC Inc.
For the period ended Dec 31, 2025. Filed Feb 26, 2026.
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 Feb 26, 2026
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-27.
0000950170-25-028337
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2025-12-31; filed 2026-02-26.
0001193125-26-073362
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 206 previous paragraphs and 213 current paragraphs.
167 unchanged; 33 reworded; 12 added; 6 removed; 0 previous and 1 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 (12)
Current report
Artificial intelligence, including machine learning and similar tools and technologies that collect, aggregate, analyze or generate data or other materials, or collectively, AI, and its current and potential future applications including in the private investment and financial industries, as well as the legal and regulatory frameworks within which AI operates, continue to rapidly evolve. While the full extent of current or future risks related thereto is not possible to predict, artificial intelligence could significantly disrupt the business models and markets in which we operate and subject us to increased competition, legal and regulatory risks and compliance costs, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our or our portfolio companies’ business, financial condition and results of operations.
Current report
We expect to expand our use of artificial intelligence tools and technologies in the operation of our business. In addition, certain of our portfolio companies use and may plan to expand their use of artificial intelligence tools and technologies in the operation of their businesses. These uses come with potential risks, including, but not limited to, generation of inaccurate results, misuse or disclosures of confidential information, infringement of third-party intellectual property rights, potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities, reputational risk, and regulatory burdens. Artificial intelligence models may create outputs that are flawed, inaccurate, biased, or that infringe or misappropriate intellectual property of third parties. The models may also be subject to new or different modes of cyber attacks, including prompt injection attacks, and such attacks may be able to circumvent our cybersecurity tools and processes. To the extent we or any of our portfolio companies rely on such technologies, these risks could negatively impact us or our portfolio companies. There is also a risk that artificial intelligence tools or applications may be misused by employees and/or third parties engaged by us, our Investment Adviser, or by our portfolio companies. Further, we, our adviser or administrator or our portfolio companies may not be able to control how third-party artificial intelligence technologies that we or they choose to use are developed or maintained, or how data we or they input is used or disclosed, even where contractual protections with respect to these matters have been sought. The misuse or misappropriation of our data could have an adverse impact on our reputation and could subject us to legal and regulatory investigations and/or actions. The misuse or misappropriation of data of any of our portfolio companies could have an adverse impact on such businesses reputation and could subject such portfolio company to legal and regulatory investigations and/or actions.
Current report
We, our portfolio companies and our Investment Advisor may also be exposed to competitive risks related to the adoption of artificial intelligence or other new technologies by others within our respective industries. If our or our portfolio companies’ or our Investment Advisor’s competitors are more successful in the use of artificial intelligence or development of services or products based on artificial intelligence, we, our portfolio companies or our Investment Advisor may be at a competitive disadvantage. In addition, our, our portfolio companies’ or our Investment Advisor’s investments in technology systems and artificial intelligence may not deliver the benefits we or they expect, which could be costly for our or their respective businesses.
Current report
The U.S. Federal Reserve decreased the federal funds rate three times in 2025, which may lead to lower interest rates in the credit markets. Lower interest rates will increase prepayment risk for our clients’ investments in assets with higher interest rates.
Current report
general economic trends and other external factors;
Current report
an increase in negative global media coverage relating to the private credit industry; and
Current report
Changes to United States tariff and import/export regulations may have a negative effect on our portfolio companies.
Current report
The United States has recently enacted and proposed to enact significant new tariffs. Additionally, there has been ongoing discussion and commentary regarding potential significant changes to U.S. trade policies, treaties and tariffs, creating significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the U.S. and other countries with respect to such trade policies, treaties and tariffs. These developments, or the perception that any of them could occur, may have a material adverse effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets, and may significantly reduce global trade and, in particular, trade between the impacted nations and the U.S. Any of these factors could depress economic activity and restrict our portfolio companies’ access to suppliers or customers and have a material adverse effect on their business, financial condition and results of operations, which in turn would negatively impact us.
Current report
Climate change is widely considered to be a significant threat to the global economy. Our business operations and our portfolio companies may face risks associated with climate change, including risks related to the impact of climate-related legislation and regulation (both domestically and internationally), risks related to climate-related business trends (such as the process of transitioning to a lower-carbon economy), and risks stemming from the physical impacts of climate change, such as the increasing frequency or severity of extreme weather events (including wildfires, droughts, hurricanes and floods) and rising sea levels and temperatures. These events and the disruptions they cause, alone or in combination, could also lead to increased costs of insurance for us and/or our portfolio companies.
Current report
The outcome of the U.S. presidential, congressional and other elections creates significant uncertainty with respect to the legal, tax and regulatory regime in which we and the Investment Advisor will operate.
Current report
Anticipating policy changes and reforms may be particularly difficult during periods of heightened partisanship at the federal, state and local levels, including due to the divisiveness surrounding populist movements, political disputes and socioeconomic issues. The failure to accurately anticipate the possible outcome of such changes and/or reforms could have a material adverse effect on our returns. Changes in the composition of the U.S. government following an election could result in changes to U.S. and non-U.S. fiscal, tax and other policies, as well as the global financial markets generally. Any significant changes in economic policy, the regulation of the asset management industry, international trade policy and/or tax law, among other things, could have a material adverse impact on our investments. General fluctuations in the market prices of securities and interest rates could affect our investment opportunities and the value of its investments. We could also be affected by difficult conditions in the capital markets and any overall weakening of the financial services industry. Ongoing disruptions in the global credit markets could affect issuers’ ability to pay debts and obligations on a timely basis. If defaults occur, we could lose both invested capital in, and anticipated profits from, any affected investments.
Current report
In recent years, there has been increased regulatory enforcement activity and rulemaking impacting the financial services industry. Under the prior U.S. presidential administration, including at the SEC and certain other regulatory bodies, policy changes could have imposed additional costs on us and our investments, required significant attention of senior management or resulted in limitations on the manner in which we or the companies in which we invest conduct business. We cannot predict at this time whether and the extent to which the current U.S. presidential administration and senior officials at the SEC and other federal agencies will pursue these or other policy changes. In addition, uncertainty regarding legislation and regulations affecting the financial services industry or taxation could also adversely impact our business or the business of our portfolio companies.
Removed paragraphs (6)
Previous report
Recent technological advances in AI pose risks to the Company, the Investment Advisor, and our portfolio companies. The Company and our portfolio companies could also be exposed to the risks of AI if third-party service providers or any counterparties, whether or not known to the Company, also use AI in their business activities. We and our portfolio companies may not be in a position to control the use of AI technology in third-party products or services.
Previous report
Use of AI could include the input of confidential information in contravention of applicable policies, contractual or other obligations or restrictions, resulting in such confidential information becoming partly accessible by other third-party AI applications and users. While the Investment Advisor does not currently use AI to make investment recommendations, the use of AI could also exacerbate or create new and unpredictable risks to our business, the Investment Advisor’s business, and the business of our portfolio companies, including by potentially significantly disrupting the markets in which we and our portfolio companies operate or subjecting us, our portfolio companies and the Investment Advisor to increased competition and regulation, which could materially and adversely affect business, financial condition or results of operations of us, our portfolio companies and the Investment Advisor. In addition, the use of AI by bad actors could heighten the sophistication and effectiveness of cyber and security attacks experienced by our portfolio companies and the Investment Adviser.
Previous report
Independent of its context of use, AI technology is generally highly reliant on the collection and analysis of large amounts of data, and it is not possible or practicable to incorporate all relevant data into the model that AI technology utilizes to operate. Certain data in such models will inevitably contain a degree of inaccuracy and error and could otherwise be inadequate or flawed, which would be likely to degrade the effectiveness of AI technology. To the extent that we or our portfolio companies are exposed to the risks of AI use, any such inaccuracies or errors could have adverse impacts on the Company or our investments.
Previous report
We began operations on January 23, 2020 and have a limited operating history. As a result, we are subject to all of the business risks and uncertainties associated with any new business, including the risk that it will not achieve its investment objectives and that the value of your investment could decline substantially or that the investor will suffer a complete loss of its investment in us.
Previous report
In addition, neither PSCM (including the employees of PSCM that serve on the Investment Team) nor the Investment Advisor has managed a BDC prior to our inception. The 1940 Act imposes numerous constraints on the operations of BDCs that generally do not apply to other investment vehicles managed by PSCM. BDCs are required, for example, to invest at least 70% of their total assets primarily in securities of U.S. private or thinly traded public companies, cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities and other high-quality debt instruments that mature in one year or less from the date of investment. We, the Investment Advisor and PSCM have limited experience operating or advising under these constraints, which may hinder our ability to take advantage of attractive investment opportunities and to achieve our investment objective.
Reworded paragraphs (33)
Previous wording
Investing in our common stock involves a number of significant risks. The investor should be aware of various risks, including those described below. The investor should carefully consider these risk factors, together with all of the other information included in this Annual Report. The risks set out below are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or not presently deemed material by us may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. If any of the following events occur, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected. In such case, the net asset value of our common stock could decline, and an investor may lose all or part of his or her investment.
Current wording
Investing in our common stock involves a number of significant risks. The investor should be aware of various risks, including those described below. The investor should carefully consider these risk factors, together with all of the other information included in this Annual Report. The risks set out below are known material risks but not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or not presently deemed material by us may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. If any of the following events occur, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected. In such case, the NAV of our common stock could decline, and an investor may lose all or part of his or her investment.
Previous wording
Our investments in PIK interest income may expose us to risks, including a possible increase in incentive fees that are payable by us to the Investment Advisor.
Current wording
Our investments in PIK interest income expose us to risks, including a possible increase in incentive fees that are payable by us to the Investment Advisor.
Previous wording
Assumes (i) $1.4 billion in total assets as of December 31, 2024, (ii) $1.4 billion in non-controlled, non-affiliated investments at fair value as of December 31, 2024, (iii) $804.2 million in outstanding indebtedness as of December 31, 2024, (iv) $537.8 million in net assets as of December 31, 2024 and (iv) weighted average interest rate of 6.82% on our indebtedness for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Assumes (i) $1.2 billion in total assets as of December 31, 2025, (ii) $1.2 billion in non-controlled, non-affiliated investments at fair value as of December 31, 2025, (iii)$716.9 million in outstanding indebtedness as of December 31, 2025, (iv) $464.1 million in net assets as of December 31, 2025 and (iv) weighted average interest rate of 5.97% on our indebtedness for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Based on outstanding indebtedness of $804.2 million as of December 31, 2024, and the weighted average effective interest rate of 6.82%, our investment portfolio would have had to produce an annual return of approximately 3.90% to cover annual interest payments on outstanding debt.
Current wording
Based on outstanding indebtedness of $716.9 million as of December 31, 2025, and the weighted average effective interest rate of 5.97%, our investment portfolio would have had to produce an annual return of approximately 3.56%to cover annual interest payments on outstanding debt.
Previous wording
Because we borrow money to make investments, our net investment income will depend, in part, upon the difference between the rate at which we borrow funds and the rate at which we invest those funds. As a result, we can offer no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates would not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income given that we use debt to finance our investments. In periods of rising interest rates, our cost of funds could increase, which could reduce our net investment income. In addition, in a prolonged low interest rate environment, the difference between investment income earned on interest earning assets and the interest expense incurred on interest bearing liabilities may be compressed, reducing our net investment income and potentially adversely affecting our operating results. We may use interest rate risk management techniques in an effort to limit our exposure to interest rate fluctuations. Such techniques may include various interest rate hedging activities to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act.
Current wording
Because we borrow money to make investments, our net investment income will depend, in part, upon the difference between the rate at which we borrow funds and the rate at which we invest those funds. As a result, we can offer no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates would not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income given that we use debt to finance our investments. In periods of rising interest rates, which have been experienced in the United States and many other countries around the world in recent years, our cost of funds could increase, which could reduce our net investment income. In addition, in a prolonged low interest rate environment, the difference between investment income earned on interest earning assets and the interest expense incurred on interest bearing liabilities may be compressed, reducing our net investment income and potentially adversely affecting our operating results. We may use interest rate risk management techniques in an effort to limit our exposure to interest rate fluctuations. Such techniques may include various interest rate hedging activities to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act.
Previous wording
We may have uncertainty as to the value of certain portfolio investments.
Current wording
We have uncertainty as to the value of certain portfolio investments.
Previous wording
Our business relies on secure information technology systems. These systems are exposed to operational and information security risks resulting from cyberattacks that threaten the confidentiality, integrity or availability of our information resources (i.e., cyber incidents). Cyber incidents can result from unintentional events (such as an inadvertent release of confidential information) or deliberate attacks by insiders or third parties. These attacks could involve gaining unauthorized access to our information systems for purposes of misappropriating assets, stealing and unauthorized release of confidential information, corrupting data, denial of service attacks on our websites, “ransomware” that renders systems inoperable until ransom is paid, or various other forms of cybersecurity breaches. Cybersecurity incidents and cyber-attacks have been occurring more frequently and will likely continue to increase. Such cyber incidents could result in disrupted operations, misstated or unreliable financial data, liability for stolen assets or information, increased cybersecurity protection and insurance costs, litigation and damage to our business relationships, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. As our reliance on technology has increased, so have the risks posed to our information systems, both internal and those provided by the Investment Advisor and third-party service providers. Cyber incidents affecting us, our Investment Advisor, or third-party service providers may adversely impact us or the companies in which we invest, causing our investments to lose value. We, along with our Investment Advisor, have implemented processes, procedures and internal controls to help mitigate cybersecurity risks and cyber intrusions. However, these measures may not be effective, and there can be no assurance that a cyber incident will not occur or that our financial results, operations or confidential information will not be negatively impacted by such an incident. In addition, the costs related to cyber or other security threats or disruptions may not be fully insured or indemnified by other means, and we may be required to expend additional resources to modify our protective measures and to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks. Furthermore, cybersecurity continues to be a key priority for regulators around the world, and some jurisdictions have enacted laws requiring companies to notify individuals or the general investing public of data security breaches involving certain types of personal data, including the SEC, which, on July 26, 2023, adopted amendments requiring the prompt public disclosure of certain cybersecurity breaches. If we fail to comply with the relevant laws and regulations, we could suffer financial losses, a disruption of our businesses, liability to investors, regulatory intervention or reputationa…
Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.
Current wording
Our business relies on secure information technology systems. These systems are exposed to operational and information security risks resulting from cyberattacks that threaten the confidentiality, integrity or availability of our information resources (i.e., cyber incidents). Cyber incidents can result from unintentional events (such as an inadvertent release of confidential information) or deliberate attacks by insiders or third parties. These attacks could involve gaining unauthorized access to our information systems for purposes of misappropriating assets, stealing and unauthorized release of confidential information, corrupting data, denial of service attacks on our websites, “ransomware” that renders systems inoperable until ransom is paid, or various other forms of cybersecurity breaches. Cybersecurity incidents and cyber-attacks are becoming more sophisticated and difficult to detect, particularly as threat actors use artificial intelligence technologies to deploy these attacks. Artificial intelligence tools may also be susceptible to new forms of cyberattacks, such as prompt injection attacks, which may increase our cybersecurity risks. Such cyber incidents could result in disrupted operations, misstated or unreliable financial data, liability for stolen assets or information, increased cybersecurity protection and insurance costs, litigation and damage to our business relationships, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. As our reliance on technology has increased, so have the risks posed to our information systems, both internal and those provided by the Investment Advisor and third-party service providers. Cyber incidents affecting us, our Investment Advisor, or third-party service providers may adversely impact us or the companies in which we invest, causing our investments to lose value. We, along with our Investment Advisor, have implemented processes, procedures and internal controls to help mitigate cybersecurity risks and cyber intrusions. However, these measures may not be effective, and there can be no assurance that a cyber incident will not occur or that our financial results, operations or confidential information will not be negatively impacted by such an incident. In addition, the costs related to cyber or other security threats or disruptions may not be fully insured or indemnified by other means, and we may be required to expend additional resources to modify our protective measures and to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks. In addition, cybersecurity is a priority for regulators in the U.S. and around the world. The SEC has adopted rules related to cybersecurity risk management for registered investment advisers, registered investment companies and business development companies. In addition, the SEC requires public companies to disclose material cybersecurity incidents on For…
Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.
Previous wording
We may hold the debt securities of leveraged portfolio companies.
Current wording
We hold the debt securities of leveraged portfolio companies.
Previous wording
Our investments in secured loans may nonetheless expose us to losses from default and foreclosure.
Current wording
Our investments in secured loans nonetheless expose us to losses from default and foreclosure.
Previous wording
While we invest in secured loans, they may nonetheless be exposed to losses resulting from default and foreclosure. Therefore, the value of the underlying collateral, the creditworthiness of the borrower and the priority of the lien are each of great importance. We cannot guarantee the adequacy of the protection of our interests, including the validity or enforceability of the loan and the maintenance of the anticipated priority and perfection of the applicable security interests. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that claims may not be asserted that might interfere with enforcement of our rights. In addition, in the event of any default under a secured loan held directly by us, we will bear a risk of loss of principal to the extent of any deficiency between the value of the collateral and the principal and accrued interest of the secured loan, which could have a material adverse effect on our cash flow from operations.
Current wording
While we invest in secured loans, they nonetheless expose us to losses resulting from default and foreclosure. Therefore, the value of the underlying collateral, the creditworthiness of the borrower and the priority of the lien are each of great importance. We cannot guarantee the adequacy of the protection of our interests, including the validity or enforceability of the loan and the maintenance of the anticipated priority and perfection of the applicable security interests. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that claims may not be asserted that might interfere with enforcement of our rights. In addition, in the event of any default under a secured loan held directly by us, we will bear a risk of loss of principal to the extent of any deficiency between the value of the collateral and the principal and accrued interest of the secured loan, which could have a material adverse effect on our cash flow from operations.
Previous wording
The mezzanine debt and other junior investments in which we may invest are typically contractually or structurally subordinated to senior indebtedness of the applicable company, or effectively subordinated as a result of being unsecured debt and therefore subject to the prior repayment of secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets pledged as security. In some cases, the subordinated debt held by us may be subject to the prior repayment of different classes of senior debt that may be in priority ahead of the debt held by us. In the event of financial difficulty on the part of a portfolio company, such class or classes of senior indebtedness ranking prior to the debt held by us, and interest thereon and related expenses, must first be repaid in full before any recovery may be had on our mezzanine debt or other subordinated investments. Subordinated investments are characterized by greater credit risks than those associated with the senior or senior secured obligations of the same issuer. In addition, under certain circumstances the holders of the senior indebtedness will have the right to block the payment of interest and principal on our mezzanine debt or other junior investment and to prevent us from pursuing its remedies on account of such non-payment against the issuer. Further, in the event of any debt restructuring or workout of the indebtedness of any issuer, the holders of the senior indebtedness will likely control the creditor side of such negotiations.
Current wording
The mezzanine debt and other junior investments in which we invest are typically contractually or structurally subordinated to senior indebtedness of the applicable company, or effectively subordinated as a result of being unsecured debt and therefore subject to the prior repayment of secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets pledged as security. In some cases, the subordinated debt held by us may be subject to the prior repayment of different classes of senior debt that may be in priority ahead of the debt held by us. In the event of financial difficulty on the part of a portfolio company, such class or classes of senior indebtedness ranking prior to the debt held by us, and interest thereon and related expenses, must first be repaid in full before any recovery may be had on our mezzanine debt or other subordinated investments. Subordinated investments are characterized by greater credit risks than those associated with the senior or senior secured obligations of the same issuer. In addition, under certain circumstances the holders of the senior indebtedness will have the right to block the payment of interest and principal on our mezzanine debt or other junior investment and to prevent us from pursuing its remedies on account of such non-payment against the issuer. Further, in the event of any debt restructuring or workout of the indebtedness of any issuer, the holders of the senior indebtedness will likely control the creditor side of such negotiations.
Previous wording
A significant number of high yield loans in the market, in particular the broadly syndicated loan market, consist of Covenant-Lite Loans, which are loans that do not require the borrower to maintain debt service or other financial ratios and do not include terms which allow the lender to monitor the performance of the borrower and declare a default if certain criteria are breached. A significant portion of the loans in which we may invest or get exposure to through its investments in CDOs or other types of structured securities are Covenant-Lite Loans and it is possible that such loans may comprise a majority of our portfolio from time to time. Ownership of Covenant-Lite Loans exposes us to different risks, including with respect to liquidity, price volatility, ability to restructure loans, credit risks and less protective loan documentation, than is the case with loans that contain financial maintenance covenants. Generally, Covenant-Lite Loans provide borrower companies more freedom to negatively impact lenders because their covenants are incurrence-based, which means they are only tested and can only be breached following an affirmative action of the borrower, rather than by a deterioration in the borrower’s financial condition. Accordingly, to the extent we invest in Covenant-Lite Loans, we may have fewer rights against a borrower and may have a greater risk of loss on such investments as compared to investments in or exposure to loans with financial maintenance covenants.
Current wording
A significant number of high yield loans in the market, in particular the broadly syndicated loan market, consist of Covenant-Lite Loans, which are loans that do not require the borrower to maintain debt service or other financial ratios and do not include terms which allow the lender to monitor the performance of the borrower and declare a default if certain criteria are breached. A significant portion of the loans in which we may invest or get exposure to through its investments in CDOs or other types of structured securities are Covenant-Lite Loans and it is possible that such loans will comprise a majority of our portfolio from time to time. Ownership of Covenant-Lite Loans exposes us to different risks, including with respect to liquidity, price volatility, ability to restructure loans, credit risks and less protective loan documentation, than is the case with loans that contain financial maintenance covenants. Generally, Covenant-Lite Loans provide borrower companies more freedom to negatively impact lenders because their covenants are incurrence-based, which means they are only tested and can only be breached following an affirmative action of the borrower, rather than by a deterioration in the borrower’s financial condition. Accordingly, to the extent we invest in Covenant-Lite Loans, we may have fewer rights against a borrower and may have a greater risk of loss on such investments as compared to investments in or exposure to loans with financial maintenance covenants.
Previous wording
We invest in high yield debt, a substantial portion of which may be rated below investment-grade by one or more nationally recognized statistical rating organizations or is unrated but of comparable credit quality to obligations rated below investment-grade, and has greater credit and liquidity risk than more highly rated debt obligations. High yield debt is generally unsecured and may be subordinate to other obligations of the obligor. The lower rating of high yield debt reflect a greater possibility that adverse changes in the financial condition of the obligor or in general economic conditions (including, for example, a substantial period of rising interest rates or declining earnings) or both may impair the ability of the obligor to make payment of principal and interest. Many issuers of high yield debt are highly leveraged, and their relatively high debt-to-equity ratios create increased risks that their operations might not generate sufficient cash flow to service their debt obligations. In addition, many issuers of high yield debt may be in poor financial condition, experiencing poor operating results, having substantial capital needs or negative net worth or be facing special competitive or product obsolescence problems, and may include companies involved in bankruptcy or other reorganizations or liquidation proceedings. Certain of these securities may not be publicly traded, and therefore it may be difficult to obtain information as to the true condition of the issuers. Overall declines in the below investment-grade bond and other markets may adversely affect such issuers by inhibiting their ability to refinance their debt at maturity. High yield debt is often less liquid than higher rated securities, and the market for high yield debt has recently experienced periods of volatility. The market values of certain of this high yield debt may reflect individual corporate developments.
Current wording
We invest in high yield debt, a substantial portion of which may be rated below investment-grade by one or more nationally recognized statistical rating organizations or is unrated but of comparable credit quality to obligations rated below investment-grade, and has greater credit and liquidity risk than more highly rated debt obligations. High yield debt is generally unsecured and may be subordinate to other obligations of the obligor. The lower rating of high yield debt reflect a greater possibility that adverse changes in the financial condition of the obligor or in general economic conditions (including, for example, a substantial period of rising interest rates or declining earnings) or both may impair the ability of the obligor to make payment of principal and interest. Many issuers of high yield debt are highly leveraged, and their relatively high debt-to-equity ratios create increased risks that their operations might not generate sufficient cash flow to service their debt obligations. In addition, many issuers of high yield debt may be in poor financial condition, experiencing poor operating results, having substantial capital needs or negative net worth or be facing special competitive or product obsolescence problems, and may include companies involved in bankruptcy or other reorganizations or liquidation proceedings. Certain of these securities may not be publicly traded, and therefore it is difficult to obtain information as to the true condition of the issuers. Overall declines in the below investment-grade bond and other markets may adversely affect such issuers by inhibiting their ability to refinance their debt at maturity. High yield debt is often less liquid than higher rated securities, and the market for high yield debt has recently experienced periods of volatility. The market values of certain of this high yield debt may reflect individual corporate developments.
Previous wording
Our investments in bank loans and financial institutions may be less liquid than our other investments and we may incur greater risk with respect to investments we acquire through assignments or participations of interests.
Current wording
Our investments in bank loans and financial institutions may be less liquid than our other investments and we incur greater risk with respect to investments we acquire through assignments or participations of interests.
Previous wording
We may invest a portion of our investments in loans originated by banks and other financial institutions. The loans invested in by us may include term loans and revolving loans, may pay interest at a fixed or floating rate and may be senior or subordinated. Purchasers of bank loans are predominantly commercial banks, investment funds and investment banks. As secondary market trading volumes for bank loans increase, new bank loans are frequently adopting standardized documentation to facilitate loan trading, which should improve market liquidity. There can be no assurance, however, that future levels of supply and demand in bank loan trading will provide an adequate degree of liquidity, that the current period of illiquidity will not persist or worsen and that the market will not experience periods of significant illiquidity in the future. In addition, we may make investments in stressed or distressed bank loans, which are often less liquid than performing bank loans.
Current wording
We invest a portion of our investments in loans originated by banks and other financial institutions. The loans invested in by us may include term loans and revolving loans, may pay interest at a fixed or floating rate and may be senior or subordinated. Purchasers of bank loans are predominantly commercial banks, investment funds and investment banks. As secondary market trading volumes for bank loans increase, new bank loans are frequently adopting standardized documentation to facilitate loan trading, which should improve market liquidity. There can be no assurance, however, that future levels of supply and demand in bank loan trading will provide an adequate degree of liquidity, that the current period of illiquidity will not persist or worsen and that the market will not experience periods of significant illiquidity in the future. In addition, we make investments in stressed or distressed bank loans, which are often less liquid than performing bank loans.
Previous wording
We may acquire interests in bank loans either directly (by way of sale or assignment) or indirectly (by way of participation). The purchaser of an assignment typically succeeds to all the rights and obligations of the assigning institution and becomes a lender under the credit agreement with respect to the debt obligation; however, its rights can be more restricted than those of the assigning institution. Participation interests in a portion of a debt obligation typically result in a contractual relationship only with the institution participating out the interest, and not with the borrower. In purchasing participations, we generally will have no right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and we may not directly benefit from the collateral supporting the debt obligation in which it has purchased the participation. As a result, we will assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the institution selling the participation. The bank loans acquired by us are likely to be below investment-grade.
Current wording
We acquire interests in bank loans either directly (by way of sale or assignment) or indirectly (by way of participation). The purchaser of an assignment typically succeeds to all the rights and obligations of the assigning institution and becomes a lender under the credit agreement with respect to the debt obligation; however, its rights can be more restricted than those of the assigning institution. Participation interests in a portion of a debt obligation typically result in a contractual relationship only with the institution participating out the interest, and not with the borrower. In purchasing participations, we generally will have no right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and we may not directly benefit from the collateral supporting the debt obligation in which it has purchased the participation. As a result, we will assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the institution selling the participation. The bank loans acquired by us are likely to be below investment-grade.
Previous wording
We invest in structured products and such investments may involve significant risks.
Current wording
We invest in structured products and such investments involve significant risks.
Previous wording
Our portfolio may include equity investments, which are subordinated to debt investments and are subject to additional risks.
Current wording
Our portfolio includes equity investments, which are subordinated to debt investments and are subject to additional risks.
Previous wording
Our portfolio companies could incur debt that ranks equally with, or senior to, our investments in such companies and such portfolio companies could fail to generate sufficient cash flow to service their debt obligations to us.
Current wording
Our portfolio companies may incur debt that ranks equally with, or senior to, our investments in such companies and such portfolio companies could fail to generate sufficient cash flow to service their debt obligations to us.
Previous wording
We may invest in derivatives and other assets that are subject to many of the same types of risks related to the use of leverage. In October 2020, the SEC adopted Rule 18f-4 under the 1940 Act regarding the ability of a BDC to use derivatives and other transactions that create future payment or delivery obligations. Under Rule 18f-4, BDCs that use derivatives are subject to a value-at-risk leverage limit, a derivatives risk management program and testing requirements and requirements related to board reporting. These requirements apply unless the BDC qualifies as a “limited derivatives user,” as defined under Rule 18f-4. Under Rule 18f-4, a BDC may enter into an unfunded commitment agreement (which may include delayed draw and revolving loans) that will not be deemed to be a derivatives transaction, such as an agreement to provide financing to a portfolio company, if the BDC has, among other things, a reasonable belief, at the time it enters into such an agreement, that it will have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to meet its obligations with respect to all of its unfunded commitment agreements, in each case as it becomes due. Collectively, these requirements may limit our ability to use derivatives and/or enter into certain other financial contracts.
Current wording
We may invest in derivatives and other assets that are subject to many of the same types of risks related to the use of leverage. In October 2020, the SEC adopted Rule 18f-4 under the 1940 Act regarding the ability of a BDC to use derivatives and other transactions that create future payment or delivery obligations. Under Rule 18f-4, BDCs that use derivatives are subject to a value-at-risk leverage limit, a derivatives risk management program and testing requirements and requirements related to board reporting. These requirements apply unless the BDC qualifies as a “limited derivatives user,” as defined under Rule 18f-4. Under Rule 18f-4, a BDC may enter into an unfunded commitment agreement (which may include delayed draw and revolving loans) that will not be deemed to be a derivatives transaction, such as an agreement to provide financing to a portfolio company, if the BDC has, among other things, a reasonable belief, at the time it enters into such an agreement, that it will have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to meet its obligations with respect to all of its unfunded commitment agreements, in each case as they become due. Collectively, these requirements may limit our ability to use derivatives and/or enter into certain other financial contracts.
Previous wording
Our investments in OID and PIK interest income may expose us to risks associated with such income being required to be included in accounting income and taxable income prior to receipt of cash.
Current wording
Our investments in OID and PIK interest income expose us to risks associated with such income being required to be included in accounting income and taxable income prior to receipt of cash.
Previous wording
Our investments may include OID and PIK instruments. To the extent OID and PIK interest income constitute a portion of our income, we will be exposed to risks associated with such income being required to be included in an accounting income and taxable income prior to receipt of cash, including the following:
Current wording
Our investments include OID and PIK instruments. To the extent OID and PIK interest income constitute a portion of our income, we will be exposed to risks associated with such income being required to be included in an accounting income and taxable income prior to receipt of cash, including the following:
Previous wording
Distributions by a BDC generally are treated as dividends for U.S. tax purposes, and will be subject to U.S. income or withholding tax unless the stockholder receiving the dividend qualifies for an exemption from U.S. tax, or the distribution is subject to one of the special look-through rules described below. Distributions paid out of net capital gains can qualify for a reduced rate of taxation in the hands of an individual U.S. stockholder, and an exemption from U.S. tax in the hands of a non-U.S. stockholder.
Current wording
Distributions by a BDC generally are treated as dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and will be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax unless the stockholder receiving the dividend qualifies for an exemption from U.S. tax, or the distribution is subject to one of the special look-through rules described below. Distributions paid out of net capital gains can qualify for a reduced rate of taxation in the hands of an individual U.S. stockholder, and an exemption from U.S. tax in the hands of a non-U.S. stockholder.
Previous wording
Our business may be adversely affected if we fail to maintain our qualification as a RIC.
Current wording
Our business will be adversely affected if we fail to maintain our qualification as a RIC.
Previous wording
To maintain RIC tax treatment under the Code, we must be a BDC at all times during each taxable year and meet the following minimum annual distribution, income source and asset diversification requirements. The minimum annual distribution requirement for a RIC will be satisfied if we distribute dividends to our stockholders in respect of each taxable year of an amount generally at least equal to 90% of our investment company taxable income, determined without regard to any deduction for dividends paid. In this regard, a RIC may, in certain cases, satisfy the 90% distribution requirement by distributing dividends relating to a taxable year after the close of such taxable year under the “spillback dividend” provisions of Subchapter M of the Code. We would be taxed, at regular corporate rates, on any retained income and/or gains, including any short-term capital gains or long-term capital gains. We must also satisfy an additional annual distribution requirement with respect to each calendar year in order to avoid a 4% excise tax on the amount of any under-distribution. Because we may use debt financing, we are subject to (i) an asset coverage ratio requirement under the 1940 Act and may, in the future, be subject to (ii) certain financial covenants under loan and credit agreements that could, under certain circumstances, restrict us from making distributions necessary to satisfy the distribution requirements. If we are unable to obtain cash from other sources, or chose or be required to retain a portion of our taxable income or gains, we could (1) be required to pay excise tax and (2) fail to qualify for RIC tax treatment, and thus become subject to corporate-level income tax on our taxable income (including gains).
Current wording
To maintain RIC tax treatment under the Code, we must be a BDC at all times during each taxable year and meet the following minimum annual distribution, income source and asset diversification requirements. The minimum annual distribution requirement for a RIC will be satisfied if we distribute dividends to our stockholders in respect of each taxable year of an amount generally at least equal to 90% of our investment company taxable income, determined without regard to any deduction for dividends paid. In this regard, a RIC may, in certain cases, satisfy the 90% distribution requirement by distributing dividends relating to a taxable year after the close of such taxable year under the “spillback dividend” provisions of Subchapter M of the Code. We would be taxed, at the regular corporate rate, on any retained income and/or gains, including any short-term capital gains or long-term capital gains. We must also satisfy an additional annual distribution requirement with respect to each calendar year in order to avoid a 4% excise tax on the amount of any under-distribution. Because we may use debt financing, we are subject to (i) an asset coverage ratio requirement under the 1940 Act and may, in the future, be subject to (ii) certain financial covenants under loan and credit agreements that could, under certain circumstances, restrict us from making distributions necessary to satisfy the distribution requirements. If we are unable to obtain cash from other sources, or chose or be required to retain a portion of our taxable income or gains, we could (1) be required to pay excise tax and (2) fail to qualify for RIC tax treatment, and thus become subject to corporate-level income tax on our taxable income (including gains).
Previous wording
Purchases of shares of our common stock by us under our open market repurchase program, including the Company Rule 10b5-1 Stock Repurchase Plan, and by PSCM, including through the PSCM Rule 10b5-1 Stock Purchase Plan, may result in the price of shares of our common stock being higher than the price that otherwise might exist in the open market.
Current wording
Purchases of shares of our common stock by us under our open market repurchase program, including the Extended Company Rule 10b5-1 Stock Repurchase Plan, and by PSCM, including through the Extended PSCM Rule 10b5-1 Plan, may result in the price of shares of our common stock being higher than the price that otherwise might exist in the open market.
Previous wording
Our Board authorized us to repurchase shares of our common stock through an open-market share repurchase program for up to $20 million in the aggregate of shares of our common stock through 12 months from the date of the IPO. Pursuant to such authorization and concurrently with the closing of the IPO, we entered into the Company Rule 10b5-1 Stock Repurchase Plan to acquire up to $15 million in the aggregate of shares of our common stock, in accordance with the guidelines specified in Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act. In addition, PSCM will purchase up to $5 million in the aggregate of shares of our common stock in the open market within one year of the date of the IPO. Concurrently with the closing of the IPO, PSCM entered into the PSCM Rule 10b5-1 Stock Purchase Plan to permit the purchase of up to $2.5 million of our shares of common stock in connection with its purchase commitment. These activities may have the effect of maintaining the market price of shares of our common stock or retarding a decline in the market price of the shares of our common stock, and, as a result, the price of our shares of common stock may be higher than the price that otherwise might exist in the open market.
Current wording
On December 19, 2024, the Company entered into the Extended Company Rule 10b5-1 Stock Repurchase Plan to acquire up to $20 million in the aggregate of shares of our common stock less any repurchases made pursuant to the Company Rule 10b5-1 Stock Repurchase Plan, in accordance with the guidelines specified in Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act. In addition, on April 22, 2025 PSCM entered into the Extended PSCM Rule 10b5-1 Plan to acquire up to $2.5 million in the aggregate of shares of our common stock, in accordance with the the guidelines specified in Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act. These activities could have the effect of maintaining the market price of our common stock or retarding a decline in the market price of the common stock, and, as a result, the price of our common stock could be higher than the price that otherwise might exist in the open market. Repurchases pursuant to the Extended Company Rule 10b5-1 Stock Repurchase Plan could affect the price of our common stock and increase its volatility. The existence of the Extended PSCM Rule 10b5-1 Stock Purchase Plan could also cause the price of our common stock to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our common stock. There can be no assurance that any stock repurchases will enhance stockholder value because the market price of our common stock could decline below the levels at which we repurchased such shares.
Previous wording
We have also adopted other measures that may make it difficult for a third party to obtain control of us, including provisions of our charter classifying our Board in three classes serving staggered three-year terms, and provisions of our charter authorizing our Board to classify or reclassify shares of our stock in one or more classes or series, to cause the issuance of additional shares of our stock, and to amend our charter, without stockholder approval, to increase or decrease the number of shares of stock that we have authority to issue. These provisions, as well as other provisions of our charter and bylaws, may delay, defer or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might otherwise be in the best interests of our stockholders.
Current wording
Wehave also adopted other measures that may make it difficult for a third party to obtain control of us, including provisions of our charter classifying our Board in three classes serving staggered three-year terms, and provisions of our charter authorizing our Board to classify or reclassify shares of our stock in oneor more classes or series, to cause the issuance of additional shares of our stock, and to amend our charter, without stockholder approval, to increase or decrease the number of shares of stock that we have authority to issue. These provisions, as well as other provisions of our charter and bylaws, may delay, defer or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might otherwise be in the best interests of our stockholders.
Previous wording
In addition, certain force majeure events (such as events of war or an outbreak of an infectious disease, such as the global outbreak of COVID-19) could have a broader negative impact on the world economy and international business activity generally, or in any of the countries in which we invest or in which our portfolio companies operate. Such force majeure events could result in or coincide with: increased volatility in the global securities, derivatives and currency markets; a decrease in the reliability of market prices and difficulty in valuing assets; greater fluctuations in currency exchange rates; increased risk of default (by both government and private issuers); further social, economic, and political instability; nationalization of private enterprise; greater governmental involvement in the economy or in social factors that impact the economy; less governmental regulation and supervision of the securities markets and market participants and decreased monitoring of the markets by governments or self-regulatory organizations and reduced enforcement of regulations; limited, or limitations on, the activities of investors in such markets; controls or restrictions on foreign investment, capital controls and limitations on repatriation of invested capital; inability to purchase and sell investments or otherwise settle security or derivative transactions (i.e., a market freeze); unavailability of currency hedging techniques; substantial, and in some periods extremely high, rates of inflation, which can last many years and have substantial negative effects on credit and securities markets as well as the economy as a whole; recessions; and difficulties in obtaining and/or enforcing legal judgments.
Current wording
In addition, certain force majeure events (such as events of war or an outbreak of an infectious disease, such as the global outbreak of COVID-19) could have a broader negative impact on the world economy and international business activity generally, or in any of the countries in which we invest or in which our portfolio companies operate. Such force majeure events could result in or coincide with: increased volatility in the global securities, derivatives and currency markets; a decrease in the reliability of market prices and difficulty in valuing assets; greater fluctuations in currency exchange rates; increased risk of default (by both government and private issuers); further social, economic, and political instability; nationalization of private enterprise; greater governmental involvement in the economy or in social factors that impact the economy; less governmental regulation and supervision of the securities markets and market participants and decreased monitoring of the markets by governments or self-regulatory organizations and reduced enforcement of regulations; limited, or limitations on, activities of investors in such markets; controls or restrictions on foreign investment, capital controls and limitations on repatriation of invested capital; inability to purchase and sell investments or otherwise settle security or derivative transactions (i.e., a market freeze); unavailability of currency hedging techniques; substantial, and in some periods extremely high, rates of inflation, which can last many years and have substantial negative effects on credit and securities markets as well as the economy as a whole; recessions; and difficulties in obtaining and/or enforcing legal judgments.
Previous wording
The current global financial market situation, as well as various social and political tensions in the United States and around the world (including the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and China, the conflict in the Red Sea and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine), may contribute to increased market volatility, may have long-term effects on the United States and worldwide financial markets and may cause economic uncertainties or deterioration in the U.S. and worldwide. The impact of downgrades by rating agencies to the U.S. government’s sovereign credit rating or its perceived creditworthiness as well as potential government shutdowns and uncertainty surrounding transfers of power could adversely affect the U.S. and global financial markets and economic conditions.
Current wording
The current global financial market situation, as well as various social and political tensions in the United States and around the world (including the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and China, the conflict in the Red Sea, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and U.S. foreign policy in Latin America) may contribute to increased market volatility, may have long-term effects on the United States and worldwide financial markets and may cause economic uncertainties or deterioration in the U.S. and worldwide. The impact of downgrades by rating agencies to the U.S. government’s sovereign credit rating or its perceived creditworthiness as well as potential government shutdowns and uncertainty surrounding transfers of power could adversely affect the U.S. and global financial markets and economic conditions.
Previous wording
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the conflicts in the Middle East may have a material adverse impact on us and our portfolio companies.
Current wording
The Russian invasion of Ukraine as well as the conflicts in the Middle East and Latin America may have a material adverse impact on us and our portfolio companies.
Previous wording
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East could lead to disruption, instability and volatility in global markets, economies and industries that could negatively impact our business, results of operations and financial condition. The conflicts have already resulted in significant volatility in certain equity, debt and currency markets, material increases in certain commodity prices, and economic uncertainty. The conflict may escalate and its resolution is unclear. For example, the U.S. government and other governments have imposed severe sanctions against Russia and Russian interests and threatened additional sanctions and controls. Sanctions and export control laws and regulations are complex, frequently changing, and increasing in number, and they may impose additional legal compliance costs or business risks associated with our operations. Because this is an uncertain and evolving situation, its full impact is unknown at this time.
Current wording
The conflicts between Russia and Ukraine as well as in the Middle East and Latin America could lead to disruption, instability and volatility in global markets, economies and industries that could negatively impact our business, results of operations and financial condition. The conflicts have already resulted in significant volatility in certain equity, debt and currency markets, material increases in certain commodity prices, and economic uncertainty. The conflict may escalate and its resolution is unclear. For example, the U.S. government and other governments have imposed severe sanctions against Russia and Russian interests and threatened additional sanctions and controls. Sanctions and export control laws and regulations are complex, frequently changing, and increasing in number, and they may impose additional legal compliance costs or business risks associated with our operations. Because this is an uncertain and evolving situation, its full impact is unknown at this time.
Previous wording
In addition, the ongoing conflict involving the Middle East may also cause additional inflation, disrupt supply chains and potentially destabilize the region. These ongoing conflicts may also disrupt local, regional, national, and global markets and economies affected by sanctions, and it is not possible to predict how long any such disruption may last. It is also not possible to predict with certainty these ongoing conflicts’ additional adverse effects on existing macroeconomic conditions, currency exchange rates, and financial markets, all of which may affect our business operations or the business operations of our portfolio companies.
Current wording
In addition, the ongoing conflicts involving the Middle East or Latin America may also cause additional inflation, disrupt supply chains and potentially destabilize the region. These ongoing conflicts may also disrupt local, regional, national, and global markets and economies affected by sanctions, and it is not possible to predict how long any such disruption may last. It is also not possible to predict with certainty these ongoing conflicts’ additional adverse effects on existing macroeconomic conditions, currency exchange rates, and financial markets, all of which may affect our business operations or the business operations of our portfolio companies.
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Changes in interest rates affect our cost of capital and net investment income.