Seven Hills Realty Trust

Previous wording

•the CRE loans that we originate or acquire are subject to the ability of the property owner to generate net operating income from the underlying property, as well as the risks of defaults and foreclosure, which may be impacted by current economic conditions, including inflation, rising or sustained high interest rates, supply chain challenges, labor availability, geopolitical instability and economic downturn, among other factors;

Current wording

•the CRE loans that we originate or acquire are subject to the ability of the property owner to generate net operating income from the underlying property, as well as the risks of defaults and foreclosure, which may be impacted by current economic conditions, including inflation, uncertainty surrounding interest rates and sustained high interest rates, supply chain challenges, labor availability, geopolitical instability and economic downturn, among other factors;

Previous wording

Our business may be adversely affected by market and economic volatility experienced by the U.S. and global economies, the CRE industry and/or the local economies in the markets in which the properties relating to our investments are located. Unfavorable market, economic and CRE industry conditions may be due to, among other things, rising or sustained high interest rates and inflation, labor market challenges, supply chain disruptions, volatility in the capital markets, pandemics (such as the COVID-19 pandemic) or other public health safety concerns, geopolitical instability (such as the war in Ukraine), and other conditions beyond our control. Current and future economic conditions in the United States may affect the demand for real estate and real estate financing, real estate values, CRE transaction and leasing activity, rents, capital market stability and liquidity and capital costs. Current economic conditions, including high interest rates, inflation, reduced availability of financing or financing on favorable terms and increased CRE financing costs, have resulted in a reduction in CRE transaction volume and adversely impacted CRE lending, including alternative CRE lenders like us. If these conditions continue or worsen, or if other adverse market conditions arise, CRE transaction activity, capital market stability, financing availability and financing costs for CRE lending may be further negatively impacted. In addition, these conditions may result in a prolonged economic slowdown or recession, which may negatively impact our borrowers’ ability to pay their debt obligations owed to us. Further, these conditions may reduce the value of the properties relating to our investments, which may increase the likelihood that we incur losses if our borrowers default on our loans. If these risks are realized, they may have a material adverse effect on our investment returns, ability to grow our investment portfolio, results of operations, financial condition and ability to pay distributions to our shareholders.

Current wording

Our business may be adversely affected by market and economic volatility experienced by the U.S. and global economies, the CRE industry and/or the local economies in the markets in which the properties relating to our investments are located. Unfavorable market, economic and CRE industry conditions may be due to, among other things, uncertainty surrounding interest rates or sustained high interest rates and inflation, labor market challenges, supply chain disruptions, volatility in the capital markets, pandemics or other public health safety concerns, geopolitical instability (such as the war in Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East), the new presidential administration, and other conditions beyond our control. Current and future economic conditions in the United States may affect the demand for real estate and real estate financing, real estate values, CRE transaction and leasing activity, rents, capital market stability and liquidity and capital costs. Current economic conditions, including high interest rates, inflation, reduced availability of financing or financing on favorable terms and increased CRE financing costs, have resulted in a reduction in CRE transaction volume and adversely impacted CRE lending, including alternative CRE lenders like us. If these conditions continue or worsen, or if other adverse market conditions arise, CRE transaction activity, capital market stability, financing availability and financing costs for CRE lending may be further negatively impacted. In addition, these conditions may result in a prolonged economic slowdown or recession, which may negatively impact our borrowers’ ability to pay their debt obligations owed to us. Further, these conditions may reduce the value of the properties relating to our investments, which may increase the likelihood that we incur losses if our borrowers default on our loans. If these risks are realized, they may have a material adverse effect on our investment returns, ability to grow our investment portfolio, results of operations, financial condition and ability to pay distributions to our shareholders.

Previous wording

Additionally, events leading to limited liquidity, defaults, non-performance or other adverse developments that affect one industry, such as the financial services industry, or concerns or rumors about any events of these kinds, have in the past and may in the future lead to market-wide liquidity problems, may spread to other industries, and could negatively affect our business. For example, in response to the rapidly declining financial condition of regional banks Silicon Valley Bank (“SVB”) and Signature Bank (“Signature”), the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation and the New York State Department of Financial Services closed SVB and Signature on March 10, 2023 and March 12, 2023, respectively, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) was appointed as receiver for SVB and Signature. Although the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve and the FDIC have taken measures to stabilize the financial system, uncertainty and liquidity concerns in the broader financial services industry remain. Additionally, should there be additional systemic pressure on the financial system and capital markets, there can be no assurances of the response of any government or regulator, and any response may not be as favorable to industry participants as the measures currently being pursued. In addition, highly publicized issues related to the U.S. and global capital markets in the past have led to significant and widespread investor concerns over the integrity of the capital markets. The current situation related to SVB, Signature and other regional banks could in the future lead to further rules and regulations for public companies, banks, financial institutions and other participants in the U.S. and global capital markets, and complying with the requirements of any such rules or regulations may be burdensome. Even if not adopted, evaluating and responding to any such proposed rules or regulations could result in increased costs and require significant attention from Tremont.

Current wording

Additionally, events leading to limited liquidity, defaults, non-performance or other adverse developments that affect one industry, such as the financial services industry, or concerns or rumors about any events of these kinds, have in the past and may in the future lead to market-wide liquidity problems, may spread to other industries, and could negatively affect our business. For example, in response to the rapidly declining financial condition of regional banks Silicon Valley Bank (“SVB”) and Signature Bank (“Signature”), the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation and the New York State Department of Financial Services closed SVB and Signature on March 10, 2023 and March 12, 2023, respectively, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) was appointed as receiver for SVB and Signature. Although the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve and the FDIC have taken measures to stabilize the financial system, uncertainty and liquidity concerns in the broader financial services industry remain. Additionally, should there be additional systemic pressure on the financial system and capital markets, there can be no assurances of the response of any government or regulator, and any response may not be as favorable to industry participants as the measures currently being pursued. In addition, highly publicized issues related to the U.S. and global capital markets in the past have led to significant and widespread investor concerns over the integrity of the capital markets. The situation related to SVB, Signature and other regional banks could in the future lead to further rules and regulations for public companies, banks, financial institutions and other participants in the U.S. and global capital markets, and complying with the requirements of any such rules or regulations may be burdensome. Even if not adopted, evaluating and responding to any such proposed rules or regulations could result in increased costs and require significant attention from Tremont.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our portfolio consisted of 24 first mortgage loans. The number of loans in which we are invested may be higher or lower depending on the amount of our assets under management at any given time, market conditions and the extent to which we employ leverage, and will likely fluctuate over time. As a result, the aggregate returns we realize may be adversely affected if any of our investments performs poorly, we need to write down the value of any of our investments or any of our investments is repaid prior to maturity and we are not able to timely redeploy the proceeds in a manner that provides us with comparable returns. The impact of these adverse effects on our aggregate returns may be greater than if our portfolio consisted of a larger number of loans because an impacted loan may comprise a larger proportion of our loan portfolio.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our portfolio consisted of 21 first mortgage loans. The number of loans in which we are invested may be higher or lower depending on the amount of our assets under management at any given time, market conditions and the extent to which we employ leverage, and will likely fluctuate over time. As a result, the aggregate returns we realize may be adversely affected if any of our investments performs poorly, we need to write down the value of any of our investments or any of our investments is repaid prior to maturity and we are not able to timely redeploy the proceeds in a manner that provides us with comparable returns. The impact of these adverse effects on our aggregate returns may be greater than if our portfolio consisted of a larger number of loans because an impacted loan may comprise a larger proportion of our loan portfolio.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had $304.3 million of available liquidity from cash and amounts available under our Secured Financing Facilities to fund future loan originations and advances. After we invest these sources, we may not be able to obtain additional capital to make investments that we determine are attractive. If so, this could limit our ability to grow our loan portfolio in the future, including by pursuing opportunities that may be available in our loan origination pipeline, and adversely affect our ability to make or sustain distributions to our shareholders. Our ability to further grow our loan portfolio over time will depend, to a significant degree, upon our ability to obtain additional capital. Our access to additional capital depends upon a number of factors, some of which we have little or no control over, including:

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had $370.1 million of available liquidity from cash and amounts available under our Secured Financing Facilities to fund future loan originations and advances. After we invest these sources, we may not be able to obtain additional capital to make investments that we determine are attractive. If so, this could limit our ability to grow our loan portfolio in the future, including by pursuing opportunities that may be available in our loan origination pipeline, and adversely affect our ability to make or sustain distributions to our shareholders. Our ability to further grow our loan portfolio over time will depend, to a significant degree, upon our ability to obtain additional capital. Our access to additional capital depends upon a number of factors, some of which we have little or no control over, including:

Previous wording

If the market value of our common shares does not increase or declines, our cost of equity capital will remain high or further increase, and we may not be able to practically or otherwise raise equity capital by issuing additional equity securities.

Current wording

If the market price of our common shares does not increase or declines, our cost of equity capital will remain high or further increase, and we may not be able to practically or otherwise raise equity capital by issuing additional equity securities.

Previous wording

•changes in national, regional or local economic conditions and/or specific industry segments, including current and future economic conditions caused by pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic;

Current wording

•changes in national, regional or local economic conditions and/or specific industry segments, including current and future economic conditions caused by pandemics;

Previous wording

•acts of God, earthquakes, hurricanes, health epidemics, pandemics and other public health safety events or concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and other natural disasters, or acts of war, sabotage, terrorism, social unrest or civil disturbances, in each case which may result in uninsured or underinsured losses.

Current wording

•acts of God, earthquakes, hurricanes, health epidemics, pandemics and other public health safety events or concerns, and other natural disasters, or acts of war, sabotage, terrorism, social unrest or civil disturbances, in each case which may result in uninsured or underinsured losses.

Previous wording

•acts of God, earthquakes, hurricanes, pandemics or other public health safety events or concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and other natural disasters, climate change, or acts of war, sabotage, terrorism, social unrest and civil disturbances, in each case which may result in uninsured or underinsured losses;

Current wording

•acts of God, earthquakes, hurricanes, pandemics or other public health safety events or concerns, and other natural disasters, climate change, or acts of war, sabotage, terrorism, social unrest and civil disturbances, in each case which may result in uninsured or underinsured losses;

Previous wording

Real property we may own in the future but do not use in the ordinary course of our operations subjects us to risks particular to CRE property. We have in the past owned, and may own in the future, certain properties as a result of foreclosure of loans secured by such properties. Tenants of properties we may own may elect to not renew their leases, or to renew them for less space than they currently occupy, which could increase vacancy, place downward pressure on occupancy, rental rates and income and property valuation. All of these factors could have a material adverse effect on any income we could generate, or expenses we could incur, from the ownership of such properties. Moreover, our ability to sell CRE is affected by public perception that banks are inclined to accept large discounts from market value in order to quickly liquidate properties. Any material decrease in market prices may lead to CRE write-downs, with a corresponding expense in our statement of operations. Write-downs on CRE or an inability to sell CRE properties could have a material adverse effect on our future business, results of operations, financial condition and the value of our common stock. Furthermore, the management and resolution of CRE increases our costs and requires significant commitments of time from our management and directors, which can be detrimental to the performance of their other responsibilities.

Current wording

Real property we own or may own in the future, but do not use in the ordinary course of our operations subjects us to risks particular to CRE property. We currently own, have in the past owned, and may own in the future, certain properties as a result of foreclosure of loans secured by such properties. Tenants of properties we may own may elect to not renew their leases, or to renew them for less space than they currently occupy, which could increase vacancy, place downward pressure on occupancy, rental rates and income and property valuation. All of these factors could have a material adverse effect on any income we could generate, or expenses we could incur, from the ownership of such properties. Moreover, our ability to sell CRE is affected by public perception that banks are inclined to accept large discounts from market value in order to quickly liquidate properties. Any material decrease in market prices may lead to CRE write-downs, with a corresponding expense in our statement of operations. Write-downs on CRE or an inability to sell CRE properties could have a material adverse effect on our future business, results of operations, financial condition and the value of our common stock. Furthermore, the management and resolution of CRE increases our costs and requires significant commitments of time from our management and directors, which can be detrimental to the performance of their other responsibilities.

Previous wording

Changes in interest rates may be sudden and may significantly reduce our revenues or impede our growth. In efforts to combat rising inflation, the Federal Open Market Committee of the U.S. Federal Reserve (the “FOMC”) has raised interest rates multiple times since March 2022 and may continue to raise interest rates in 2024. Changes in interest rates may materially and negatively affect us in several ways, including:

Current wording

Changes in interest rates may be sudden and may significantly reduce our revenues or impede our growth. In efforts to combat rising inflation, the Federal Open Market Committee of the U.S. Federal Reserve, or FOMC, raised interest rates eleven times during 2022 and 2023 and then paused rate increases in the fourth quarter of 2023 following the deceleration of inflationary growth. The FOMC cut interest rates three times between September 2024 and December 2024, and it may seek to further reduce interest rates, increase interest rates or maintain current interest rates. Changes in interest rates may materially and negatively affect us in several ways, including:

Previous wording

•Investors may consider whether to buy or sell our common shares based upon the then distribution rate on our common shares relative to the then prevailing interest rates. If interest rates go up, investors may expect a higher distribution rate than we are able to pay, which may increase our cost of capital, or they may sell our common shares and seek alternative investments that offer higher distribution rates. Sales of our common shares may cause a decline in the market value of our common shares.

Current wording

•Investors may consider whether to buy or sell our common shares based upon the then distribution rate on our common shares relative to the then prevailing interest rates. If interest rates go up, investors may expect a higher distribution rate than we are able to pay, which may increase our cost of capital, or they may sell our common shares and seek alternative investments that offer higher distribution rates. Sales of our common shares may cause a decline in the market price of our common shares.

Previous wording

There is an increasing focus from investors, borrowers, tenants, and their customers, employees, other stakeholders and regulators concerning corporate sustainability, specifically related to ESG factors. Some investors may use these factors to guide their investment strategies and, in some cases, may choose not to invest in us and/or potential borrowers may choose not to do business with us if they believe our policies relating to corporate sustainability are inadequate. Third party providers of corporate sustainability ratings and reports on companies have increased in number, resulting in varied and in some cases inconsistent standards. In addition, the criteria by which companies’ corporate sustainability practices are assessed are evolving, which could result in greater expectations of us, our borrowers and their tenants and cause us, our borrowers and their tenants to undertake costly initiatives to satisfy such new criteria. Alternatively, if we, our borrowers or their tenants elect not to or are unable to satisfy such new criteria or do not meet the criteria of a specific third party provider, some investors may conclude that our or their policies with respect to corporate sustainability are inadequate. We and our borrowers and their tenants may face reputational damage in the event that our or their corporate sustainability procedures or standards do not meet the goals we or they have set or the standards set by various constituencies. If we fail to satisfy the expectations of investors or if our borrowers or their tenants fail to satisfy expectations of their customers, employees and other stakeholders or if any goals or initiatives we or they announce are not executed as planned, our and their reputations and financial results could be adversely affected, net operating income from operations of our borrowers’ and their tenants’ businesses may decrease, our borrowers’ ability to repay our loans may be impaired, risks of default and foreclosure may increase and our results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and our ability to make or sustain distribution to our shareholders may be materially adversely impacted.

Current wording

There remains a continued focus from investors, borrowers, tenants, and their customers, employees, other stakeholders and regulators concerning corporate sustainability, specifically related to ESG factors. Some investors may use these factors to guide their investment strategies and, in some cases, may choose not to invest in us and/or potential borrowers may choose not to do business with us if they believe our policies relating to corporate sustainability are inadequate. Third party providers of corporate sustainability ratings and reports on companies have increased in number, resulting in varied and in some cases inconsistent standards. In addition, the criteria by which companies’ corporate sustainability practices are assessed are evolving, which could result in greater expectations of us, our borrowers and their tenants and cause us, our borrowers and their tenants to undertake costly initiatives to satisfy such new criteria. Alternatively, if we, our borrowers or their tenants elect not to or are unable to satisfy such new criteria or do not meet the criteria of a specific third party provider, some investors may conclude that our or their policies with respect to corporate sustainability are inadequate. We and our borrowers and their tenants may face reputational damage in the event that our or their corporate sustainability procedures or standards do not meet the goals we or they have set or the standards set by various constituencies. If we fail to satisfy the expectations of investors or if our borrowers or their tenants fail to satisfy expectations of their customers, employees and other stakeholders or if any goals or initiatives we or they announce are not executed as planned, our and their reputations and financial results could be adversely affected, net operating income from operations of our borrowers’ and their tenants’ businesses may decrease, our borrowers’ ability to repay our loans may be impaired, risks of default and foreclosure may increase and our results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and our ability to make or sustain distribution to our shareholders may be materially adversely impacted.

Previous wording

For example, various laws and regulations currently exist that restrict the investment activities of banks and certain other financial institutions but do not apply to us. We believe this regulatory difference may create opportunities for us to successfully grow our business. There has been increasing commentary amongst regulators and intergovernmental institutions on the role of nonbank institutions in providing credit and, particularly, so-called “shadow banking,” a term generally referring to credit intermediation involving entities and activities outside the regulated banking system and increased oversight and regulation of such entities. In the United States, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 established the Financial Stability Oversight Council, or the FSOC, which is comprised of representatives of all the major U.S. financial regulators, to act as the financial system’s systemic risk regulator. Since December 2019, FSOC has focused its systemically important designation approach for nonbank financial companies on an activities-based approach under which an individual firm would only be so designated if it determined that efforts to address the financial stability risks of that firm’s activities by its primary federal and state regulators have been insufficient. FSOC and a number of other regulators and international organizations are continuing to study the shadow banking system. Compliance with any increased regulation of nonbank credit extensions could adversely impact the implementation of our investment strategy and our returns. In an extreme eventuality, it is possible that such regulations could cause us to cease operations. In addition, the Biden Administration is taking a more active approach to economic and financial regulation than the Trump Administration, particularly to promote policy goals involving climate change, racial equity, ESG matters, cybersecurity, consumer financial protection and infrastructure. We cannot predict the ultimate content, timing or effect of legislative and/or regulatory action under the Biden Administration nor the impact of such changes on our business and operations.

Current wording

For example, various laws and regulations currently exist that restrict the investment activities of banks and certain other financial institutions but do not apply to us. We believe this regulatory difference may create opportunities for us to successfully grow our business. There has been increasing commentary amongst regulators and intergovernmental institutions on the role of nonbank institutions in providing credit and, particularly, so-called “shadow banking,” a term generally referring to credit intermediation involving entities and activities outside the regulated banking system and increased oversight and regulation of such entities. In the United States, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 established the Financial Stability Oversight Council, or the FSOC, which is comprised of representatives of all the major U.S. financial regulators, to act as the financial system’s systemic risk regulator. Since December 2019, FSOC has focused its systemically important designation approach for nonbank financial companies on an activities-based approach under which an individual firm would only be so designated if it determined that efforts to address the financial stability risks of that firm’s activities by its primary federal and state regulators have been insufficient. FSOC and a number of other regulators and international organizations are continuing to study the shadow banking system. Compliance with any increased regulation of nonbank credit extensions could adversely impact the implementation of our investment strategy and our returns. In an extreme eventuality, it is possible that such regulations could cause us to cease operations. In addition, the Biden Administration took a more active approach to economic and financial regulation than the first Trump Administration, particularly to promote policy goals involving climate change, racial equity, ESG matters, cybersecurity, consumer financial protection and infrastructure. We cannot predict the ultimate content, timing or effect of legislative and/or regulatory action under the second Trump Administration nor the impact of such changes on our business and operations.

Previous wording

Security breaches, computer viruses, attacks by hackers, online fraud schemes and similar breaches have created and can create significant system disruptions, shutdowns, fraudulent transfer of assets or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. The risk of a security breach or disruption, particularly through cyberattack or cyber intrusion, including by computer hackers, foreign governments and cyber terrorists, has generally increased as the intensity and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the world have increased. The cybersecurity risks to us, RMR, Tremont and third party vendors are heightened by, among other things, the evolving nature of the threats faced, advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field of cryptography and new and increasingly sophisticated methods used to perpetrate illegal or fraudulent activities, including cyberattacks, email or wire fraud and other attacks exploiting security vulnerabilities in RMR’s, Tremont’s or other third parties’ information technology networks and systems or operations. Although much of RMR’s and Tremont’s staff returned to RMR’s offices during the COVID-19 pandemic, flexible working arrangements have resulted in a higher extent of remote working than they experienced prior to the pandemic. This and other possible changing work practices have adversely impacted, and may in the future adversely impact, RMR’s and Tremont’s ability to maintain the security, proper function and availability of RMR’s and Tremont’s information technology and systems since remote working by their employees could strain RMR’s and Tremont’s technology resources and introduce operational risk, including heightened cybersecurity risk. Remote working environments may be less secure and more susceptible to hacking attacks, including phishing and social engineering attempts that have sought, and may seek, to exploit remote working environments. In addition, RMR’s or Tremont’s data security, data privacy, investor reporting and business continuity processes could be impacted by a third party’s inability to perform in a remote work environment or by the failure of, or attack on, its information systems and technology. Any failure by RMR, Tremont or other third party vendors to maintain the security, proper function and availability of their information technology and systems could result in financial losses, interrupt our operations, damage our reputation, cause us to be in default of material contracts and subject us to liability claims or regulatory penalties, any of which could materially and adversely affect our business and the market value of our securities.

Current wording

Security breaches, computer viruses, attacks by hackers, online fraud schemes and similar breaches have created and can create significant system disruptions, shutdowns, fraudulent transfer of assets or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. The risk of a security breach or disruption, particularly through cyberattack or cyber intrusion, including by computer hackers, foreign governments and cyber terrorists, has generally increased as the intensity and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the world have increased. The cybersecurity risks to us, RMR, Tremont and third party vendors are heightened by, among other things, the evolving nature of the threats faced, advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field of cryptography and new and increasingly sophisticated methods used to perpetrate illegal or fraudulent activities, including cyberattacks, email or wire fraud and other attacks exploiting security vulnerabilities in RMR’s, Tremont’s or other third parties’ information technology networks and systems or operations. Although much of RMR’s and Tremont’s staff work from RMR’s offices for the majority of the work week, flexible working arrangements have resulted in increased remote working. This and other possible changing work practices have adversely impacted, and may in the future adversely impact, RMR’s and Tremont’s ability to maintain the security, proper function and availability of RMR’s and Tremont’s information technology and systems since remote working by their employees could strain RMR’s and Tremont’s technology resources and introduce operational risk, including heightened cybersecurity risk. Remote working environments may be less secure and more susceptible to hacking attacks, including phishing and social engineering attempts that have sought, and may seek, to exploit remote working environments. In addition, RMR’s or Tremont’s data security, data privacy, investor reporting and business continuity processes could be impacted by a third party’s inability to perform in a remote work environment or by the failure of, or attack on, its information systems and technology.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our debt under our Secured Financing Facilities represented 62.3% of our total assets. Subject to market conditions and availability, we expect to incur additional debt through our Secured Financing Facilities or other repurchase or credit facilities (including term loans and revolving facilities), public and private debt issuances or financing arrangements that we may enter into in the future. The amount of leverage we use will vary depending on our available investment opportunities, our available capital, our ability to obtain and access financing arrangements with lenders and the lenders’ and our estimate of the stability of our loan portfolio’s cash flow. Our governing documents contain no limit on the amount of debt we may incur, and we may significantly increase the amount of leverage we utilize at any time without approval of our shareholders. The amount of leverage on individual assets may vary, with leverage on some assets substantially higher than others. Leverage can enhance our potential returns but can also exacerbate our losses.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our debt under our Secured Financing Facilities represented 60.3% of our total assets. Subject to market conditions and availability, we expect to incur additional debt through our Secured Financing Facilities or other repurchase or credit facilities (including term loans and revolving facilities), public and private debt issuances or financing arrangements that we may enter into in the future. The amount of leverage we use will vary depending on our available investment opportunities, our available capital, our ability to obtain and access financing arrangements with lenders and the lenders’ and our estimate of the stability of our loan portfolio’s cash flow. Our governing documents contain no limit on the amount of debt we may incur, and we may significantly increase the amount of leverage we utilize at any time without approval of our shareholders. The amount of leverage on individual assets may vary, with leverage on some assets substantially higher than others. Leverage can enhance our potential returns but can also exacerbate our losses.

Previous wording

Matthew P. Jordan, our other Managing Trustee, is a director and the president and chief executive officer of Tremont and an officer of RMR Inc. and RMR. Thomas J. Lorenzini, our President and Chief Investment Officer, is an officer of RMR and an officer and employee of Tremont. Fernando Diaz, our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, is an officer and employee of RMR and an officer of Tremont. Messrs. Portnoy, Jordan, Lorenzini and Diaz have duties to RMR and to Tremont, as well as to us, and we do not have their undivided attention. They and other RMR personnel may have conflicts in allocating their time and resources between us and RMR and other companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide services. Our Independent Trustees also serve as independent directors or independent trustees of other public companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide management services.

Current wording

Matthew P. Jordan, our other Managing Trustee, is a director and the president and chief executive officer of Tremont and an officer of RMR Inc. and RMR. Thomas J. Lorenzini, our President and Chief Investment Officer, is an officer of RMR and an officer and employee of Tremont. Fernando Diaz, our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, is an officer and employee of RMR and an officer of Tremont. Messrs. Portnoy, Jordan, Lorenzini and Diaz have duties to RMR and to Tremont, as well as to us, and we do not have their undivided attention. They and other RMR personnel may have conflicts in allocating their time and resources between us and RMR and other companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide services. Certain of our Independent Trustees also serve as independent directors or independent trustees of other public companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide management services.

Previous wording

In addition, we may in the future enter into additional transactions with Tremont, RMR, their affiliates or entities managed by them or their subsidiaries. In particular, we may provide financing to entities managed by Tremont, RMR or their subsidiaries, or co-invest with, purchase assets from, sell assets to or arrange financing from any such entities. In addition to his investments in RMR Inc. and RMR, Adam D. Portnoy holds equity investments in other companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide management services and some of these companies have significant cross ownership interests, including, for example: as of December 31, 2023, Mr. Portnoy beneficially owned, in aggregate, 13.5% of our outstanding common shares (including through Tremont and ABP Trust), 9.8% of Diversified Healthcare Trust’s outstanding common shares, 1.5% of Office Properties Income Trust’s outstanding common shares, 1.3% of Industrial Logistics Properties Trust’s outstanding common shares, and 1.1% of Service Properties Trust’s outstanding common shares. Our executive officers may also own equity investments in other companies to which Tremont, RMR or their subsidiaries provide management services. These multiple responsibilities, relationships and cross ownerships may give rise to conflicts of interest or the perception of such conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving us, RMR Inc., RMR, our Managing Trustees, the other companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide management services and their related parties. Conflicts of interest or the perception of conflicts of interest could have a material adverse impact on our reputation, business and the market value of our common shares and other securities and we may be subject to increased risk of litigation as a result.

Current wording

In addition, we may in the future enter into additional transactions with Tremont, RMR, their affiliates or entities managed by them or their subsidiaries. In particular, we may provide financing to entities managed by Tremont, RMR or their subsidiaries, or co-invest with, purchase assets from, sell assets to or arrange financing from any such entities. In addition to his investments in RMR Inc. and RMR, Adam D. Portnoy holds equity investments in other companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide management services and some of these companies have significant cross ownership interests, including, for example: as of December 31, 2024, Mr. Portnoy beneficially owned, in aggregate, 13.5% of our outstanding common shares (including through Tremont and ABP Trust), 9.8% of Diversified Healthcare Trust’s outstanding common shares, 1.3% of Industrial Logistics Properties Trust’s outstanding common shares, 1.2% of Service Properties Trust’s outstanding common shares and 1.1% of Office Properties Income Trust’s outstanding common shares. Our executive officers may also own equity investments in other companies to which Tremont, RMR or their subsidiaries provide management services. These multiple responsibilities, relationships and cross ownerships may give rise to conflicts of interest or the perception of such conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving us, RMR Inc., RMR, our Managing Trustees, the other companies to which RMR or its subsidiaries provide management services and their related parties. Conflicts of interest or the perception of conflicts of interest could have a material adverse impact on our reputation, business and the market price of our common shares and other securities and we may be subject to increased risk of litigation as a result.

Previous wording

Our bylaws currently provide that, unless the dispute has been referred to binding arbitration, the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland will be the sole and exclusive forum for: (1) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf; (2) any action asserting a claim for breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents to us or our shareholders; (3) any action asserting a claim against us or any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents arising pursuant to Maryland law, our declaration of trust or bylaws brought by or on behalf of a shareholder, either on his, her or its own behalf, on our behalf or on behalf of any series or class of our shareholders or shareholders against us or any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents, including any claims relating to the meaning, interpretation, effect, validity, performance or enforcement of our declaration of trust or bylaws; or (4) any action asserting a claim against us or any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine of the State of Maryland. The exclusive forum provision of our bylaws does not apply to any action for which the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland does not have jurisdiction. The exclusive forum provision of our bylaws does not establish exclusive jurisdiction in the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland for claims that arise under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act or other federal securities laws if there is exclusive or concurrent jurisdiction in the federal courts. Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring or holding any interest in our common shares shall be deemed to have notice of and to have consented to these provisions of our bylaws, as they may be amended from time to time. The exclusive forum provision of our bylaws may limit a shareholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that the shareholder believes is favorable for disputes with us or our Trustees, officers, manager, agents or employees, which may discourage lawsuits against us and our Trustees, officers, manager, agents or employees.

Current wording

Our bylaws currently provide that, other than any action arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland will be the sole and exclusive forum for: (1) any Internal Corporate Claim, as such term is defined under the Maryland General Corporation Law; (2) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf; (3) any action asserting a claim for breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents to us or our shareholders; (4) any action asserting a claim against us or any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents arising pursuant to Maryland law, our declaration of trust or bylaws, including any disputes, claims or controversies brought by or on behalf of a shareholder, either on his, her or its own behalf, on our behalf or on behalf of any series or class of our shareholders or shareholders against us or any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents, including any claims relating to the meaning, interpretation, effect, validity, performance or enforcement of our declaration of trust or bylaws; or (5) any action asserting a claim against us or any of our Trustees, officers, manager or other agents that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine of the State of Maryland. The exclusive forum provision of our bylaws does not apply to any action for which the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland does not have jurisdiction. Unless we otherwise consent in writing, the sole and exclusive forum for claims that arise under the Securities Act is the federal district courts of the United States of America, to the fullest extent of the law. Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring or holding any interest in our common shares shall be deemed to have notice of and to have consented to these provisions of our bylaws, as they may be amended from time to time. The exclusive forum provision of our bylaws may limit a shareholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that the shareholder believes is favorable for disputes with us or our Trustees, officers, manager, agents or employees, which may discourage lawsuits against us and our Trustees, officers, manager, agents or employees.

Previous wording

Our Board of Trustees determines our operational, financing and investment policies and may amend or revise our policies, including our policies with respect to our intention to maintain our qualification for taxation as a REIT, investments, growth, operations, indebtedness, capitalization and distributions, or approve transactions that deviate from these policies, without a vote of, or notice to, our shareholders. Policy changes could adversely affect the market value of our common shares and our ability to pay distributions to our shareholders. Further, our organizational documents do not limit the amount or percentage of indebtedness, funded or otherwise, that we may incur. Our Board of Trustees may alter or eliminate our current policy on borrowing at any time without shareholder approval. If this policy changes, we could become more highly leveraged, which could result in an increase in our debt service costs. Higher leverage also increases the risk of default on our obligations. In addition, a change in our investment policies, including the manner in which we allocate our resources across our portfolio or the types of investments which we seek to make, may increase our exposure to interest rate risk, CRE lending market fluctuations and liquidity risk.

Current wording

Our Board of Trustees determines our operational, financing and investment policies and may amend or revise our policies, including our policies with respect to our intention to maintain our qualification for taxation as a REIT, investments, growth, operations, indebtedness, capitalization and distributions, or approve transactions that deviate from these policies, without a vote of, or notice to, our shareholders. Policy changes could adversely affect the market price of our common shares and our ability to pay distributions to our shareholders. Further, our organizational documents do not limit the amount or percentage of indebtedness, funded or otherwise, that we may incur. Our Board of Trustees may alter or eliminate our current policy on borrowing at any time without shareholder approval. If this policy changes, we could become more highly leveraged, which could result in an increase in our debt service costs. Higher leverage also increases the risk of default on our obligations. In addition, a change in our investment policies, including the manner in which we allocate our resources across our portfolio or the types of investments which we seek to make, may increase our exposure to interest rate risk, CRE lending market fluctuations and liquidity risk.

Previous wording

If the value of securities issued by our subsidiaries that are excepted from the definition of “investment company” under Section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act, together with any other investment securities we own, exceeds 40% of the value of our total assets (exclusive of U.S. Government securities and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis, or if one or more of our subsidiaries fails to maintain an exception or exemption from the 1940 Act, we could, among other things, be required to either: (1) substantially change the manner in which we conduct our operations to avoid being required to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act; or (2) register as an investment company under the 1940 Act, either of which could have an adverse effect on us and the market value of our common shares. If we or any of our subsidiaries were required to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act, the registered entity would become subject to substantial regulation with respect to capital structure (including the ability to use leverage), management, operations, transactions with affiliated persons (as defined in the 1940 Act), portfolio composition, including restrictions with respect to diversification and industry concentration and compliance with reporting, record keeping, voting, proxy disclosure and other rules and regulations that would significantly change our operations.

Current wording

If the value of securities issued by our subsidiaries that are excepted from the definition of “investment company” under Section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act, together with any other investment securities we own, exceeds 40% of the value of our total assets (exclusive of U.S. Government securities and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis, or if one or more of our subsidiaries fails to maintain an exception or exemption from the 1940 Act, we could, among other things, be required to either: (1) substantially change the manner in which we conduct our operations to avoid being required to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act; or (2) register as an investment company under the 1940 Act, either of which could have an adverse effect on us and the market price of our common shares. If we or any of our subsidiaries were required to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act, the registered entity would become subject to substantial regulation with respect to capital structure (including the ability to use leverage), management, operations, transactions with affiliated persons (as defined in the 1940 Act), portfolio composition, including restrictions with respect to diversification and industry concentration and compliance with reporting, record keeping, voting, proxy disclosure and other rules and regulations that would significantly change our operations.

Previous wording

We cannot be sure that the laws and regulations governing the 1940 Act status of REITs, including the SEC or its staff providing new or more specific or different guidance regarding these exemptions, will not change in a manner that adversely affects our operations. If we or our subsidiaries fail to maintain an exception or exemption from the 1940 Act, we could, among other things, be required either to: (1) change the manner in which we conduct our operations to avoid being required to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act; (2) sell our assets in a manner that, or at a time when, we would not otherwise choose to do so; or (3) register as an investment company, any of which could negatively affect the sustainability of our business and our ability to pay distributions, which could have an adverse effect on our business and the market value for our common shares.

Current wording

We cannot be sure that the laws and regulations governing the 1940 Act status of REITs, including the SEC or its staff providing new or more specific or different guidance regarding these exemptions, will not change in a manner that adversely affects our operations. If we or our subsidiaries fail to maintain an exception or exemption from the 1940 Act, we could, among other things, be required either to: (1) change the manner in which we conduct our operations to avoid being required to register as an investment company under the 1940 Act; (2) sell our assets in a manner that, or at a time when, we would not otherwise choose to do so; or (3) register as an investment company, any of which could negatively affect the sustainability of our business and our ability to pay distributions, which could have an adverse effect on our business and the market price for our common shares.

Previous wording

If we cease to qualify for taxation as a REIT under the IRC, then our ability to raise capital might be adversely affected, we may be subject to material amounts of federal and state income taxes, our cash available for distribution to our shareholders could be reduced, and the market value of our common shares could decline. In addition, if we lose or revoke our qualification for taxation as a REIT under the IRC for a taxable year, we will generally be prevented from requalifying for taxation as a REIT for the next four taxable years.

Current wording

If we cease to qualify for taxation as a REIT under the IRC, then our ability to raise capital might be adversely affected, we may be subject to material amounts of federal and state income taxes, our cash available for distribution to our shareholders could be reduced, and the market price of our common shares could decline. In addition, if we lose or revoke our qualification for taxation as a REIT under the IRC for a taxable year, we will generally be prevented from requalifying for taxation as a REIT for the next four taxable years.

Previous wording

From time to time, we may experience timing and other differences, for example on account of income and expense accrual principles under U.S. federal income tax laws, or on account of repaying outstanding indebtedness, whereby our available cash is less than, or does not otherwise correspond to, our taxable income. In addition, the IRC requires that income be taken into account no later than when it is taken into account on applicable financial statements, even if financial statements take such income into account before it would accrue under the original issue discount rules, market discount rules or other rules in the IRC. As a result, from time to time we may not have sufficient cash to meet our REIT distribution requirements. If we do not have other funds available in these situations, among other things, we may borrow funds on unfavorable terms, sell investments at disadvantageous prices or distribute amounts that would otherwise be invested in future acquisitions in order to make distributions sufficient to enable us to pay out enough of our taxable income to satisfy the REIT distribution requirement and to avoid corporate income tax and the 4% excise tax in a particular year. These alternatives could increase our costs or reduce our shareholders’ equity. Thus, compliance with the REIT distribution requirements may hinder our ability to grow, which could cause the market value of our common shares to decline.

Current wording

From time to time, we may experience timing and other differences, for example on account of income and expense accrual principles under U.S. federal income tax laws, or on account of repaying outstanding indebtedness, whereby our available cash is less than, or does not otherwise correspond to, our taxable income. In addition, the IRC requires that income be taken into account no later than when it is taken into account on applicable financial statements, even if financial statements take such income into account before it would accrue under the original issue discount rules, market discount rules or other rules in the IRC. As a result, from time to time we may not have sufficient cash to meet our REIT distribution requirements. If we do not have other funds available in these situations, among other things, we may borrow funds on unfavorable terms, sell investments at disadvantageous prices or distribute amounts that would otherwise be invested in future acquisitions in order to pay distributions sufficient to enable us to distribute enough of our taxable income to satisfy the REIT distribution requirement and to avoid corporate income tax and the 4% excise tax in a particular year. These alternatives could increase our costs or reduce our shareholders’ equity. Thus, compliance with the REIT distribution requirements may hinder our ability to grow, which could cause the market price of our common shares to decline.

Previous wording

We may in the future distribute taxable dividends that are payable in part in shares. Taxable shareholders receiving such dividends will be required to include the full amount of the dividend as ordinary income to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, shareholders may be required to pay income taxes with respect to these dividends in excess of the cash dividends received. If a shareholder sells our common shares that it receives as a dividend in order to pay this tax, the sales proceeds may be less than the amount included in income with respect to the dividend, depending on the market value of our common shares at the time of the sale. Furthermore, with respect to some non-U.S. shareholders, we may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax with respect to these dividends, including in respect of all or a part of the dividend that is payable in our common shares. In addition, if a significant number of our shareholders determine to sell our common shares in order to pay taxes owed on dividends paid in our common shares, then that may put downward pressure on the trading price of our common shares.

Current wording

We may in the future distribute taxable dividends that are payable in part in shares. Taxable shareholders receiving such dividends will be required to include the full amount of the dividend as ordinary income to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, shareholders may be required to pay income taxes with respect to these dividends in excess of the cash dividends received. If a shareholder sells our common shares that it receives as a dividend in order to pay this tax, the sales proceeds may be less than the amount included in income with respect to the dividend, depending on the market price of our common shares at the time of the sale. Furthermore, with respect to some non-U.S. shareholders, we may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax with respect to these dividends, including in respect of all or a part of the dividend that is payable in our common shares. In addition, if a significant number of our shareholders determine to sell our common shares in order to pay taxes owed on dividends paid in our common shares, then that may put downward pressure on the trading price of our common shares.

Previous wording

Some leading market indexes exclude companies whose dividends to shareholders constitute UBTI. For purposes of the IRC, shareholder dividends attributable to a REIT’s “excess inclusion income” are treated as UBTI to specified investors, and thus REITs that generate excess inclusion income are generally not eligible for inclusion in these market indexes. Furthermore, REIT dividends attributable to excess inclusion income cause both the REIT and its shareholders to experience a range of disruptive and adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences, including the recognition of UBTI by specified tax-exempt shareholders, the unavailability of treaty benefits to non-U.S. shareholders and the unavailability of net operating losses to offset such income with respect to U.S. taxable shareholders. We do not intend to acquire assets or enter into financing or other arrangements that will produce excess inclusion income for our shareholders. As a result, we may forgo investment or financing opportunities that we would otherwise have considered attractive or implement these arrangements through a TRS, which would increase the cost of these activities because TRSs are subject to U.S. federal income tax. Furthermore, our analysis regarding our investments’ or activities’ potential for generating excess inclusion income could be subject to challenge or we could affirmatively modify our position regarding the generation of excess inclusion income in the future. In either case, our shareholders could suffer adverse tax consequences through the recognition of UBTI or the other adverse consequences that flow from excess inclusion income. Furthermore, in such an event, our common shares could become ineligible for inclusion in those market indexes that exclude UBTI-generating stock, which could adversely affect demand for our common shares and the market value of our common shares.

Current wording

Some leading market indexes exclude companies whose dividends to shareholders constitute UBTI. For purposes of the IRC, shareholder dividends attributable to a REIT’s “excess inclusion income” are treated as UBTI to specified investors, and thus REITs that generate excess inclusion income are generally not eligible for inclusion in these market indexes. Furthermore, REIT dividends attributable to excess inclusion income cause both the REIT and its shareholders to experience a range of disruptive and adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences, including the recognition of UBTI by specified tax-exempt shareholders, the unavailability of treaty benefits to non-U.S. shareholders and the unavailability of net operating losses to offset such income with respect to U.S. taxable shareholders. We do not intend to acquire assets or enter into financing or other arrangements that will produce excess inclusion income for our shareholders. As a result, we may forgo investment or financing opportunities that we would otherwise have considered attractive or implement these arrangements through a TRS, which would increase the cost of these activities because TRSs are subject to U.S. federal income tax. Furthermore, our analysis regarding our investments’ or activities’ potential for generating excess inclusion income could be subject to challenge or we could affirmatively modify our position regarding the generation of excess inclusion income in the future. In either case, our shareholders could suffer adverse tax consequences through the recognition of UBTI or the other adverse consequences that flow from excess inclusion income. Furthermore, in such an event, our common shares could become ineligible for inclusion in those market indexes that exclude UBTI-generating stock, which could adversely affect demand for our common shares and the market price of our common shares.

Previous wording

As with other publicly traded equity securities and REIT securities, the market value of our common shares and other securities depends on various market conditions that are subject to change from time to time. We believe that one of the factors that investors consider important in deciding whether to buy or sell equity securities of a REIT is the distribution rate, considered as a percentage of the market price of the equity securities, relative to interest rates. There is a general market perception that REIT shares outperform in low interest rate environments and underperform in rising interest rate environments when compared to the broader market. In efforts to combat rising inflation, the FOMC raised interest rates multiple times since March 2022 and may continue to raise interest rates in 2024. In addition, the U.S. and global economies have continued to experience high inflation, constrained labor availability, supply chain challenges, global instability and economic downturn. These conditions have negatively impacted REIT share prices and, if they continue or worsen, may have further adverse impacts on the market value of our securities.

Current wording

As with other publicly traded equity securities and REIT securities, the market price of our common shares and other securities depends on various market conditions that are subject to change from time to time. We believe that one of the factors that investors consider important in deciding whether to buy or sell equity securities of a REIT is the distribution rate, considered as a percentage of the market price of the equity securities, relative to interest rates. There is a general market perception that REIT shares outperform in low interest rate environments and underperform in rising interest rate environments when compared to the broader market. In efforts to combat rising inflation, the FOMC raised interest rates eleven times during 2022 and 2023 and then paused rate increases in the fourth quarter of 2023 following the deceleration of inflationary growth. The FOMC cut interest rates three times between September 2024 and December 2024, and it may seek to further reduce interest rates, increase interest rates or maintain current interest rates. In addition, the U.S. and global economies have continued to experience inflation above historic levels, constrained labor availability, supply chain challenges, global instability and economic downturn. These conditions have negatively impacted REIT share prices and, if they continue or worsen, may have further adverse impacts on the market value of our securities.