CION Investment Corp
For the period ended Dec 31, 2023. Filed Mar 14, 2024.
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FY2023 · Filed Mar 14, 2024
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Organization and Principal Business
CĪON Investment Corporation, or the Company, was incorporated under the general corporation laws of the State of Maryland on August 9, 2011. On December 17, 2012, the Company successfully raised gross proceeds from unaffiliated outside investors of at least $2,500, or the minimum offering requirement, and commenced operations. The Company is an externally managed, non-diversified, closed-end management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company, or BDC, under the 1940 Act. The Company elected to be treated for federal income tax purposes as a regulated investment company, or RIC, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code.
The Company’s investment objective is to generate current income and, to a lesser extent, capital appreciation for investors. The Company’s portfolio is comprised primarily of investments in senior secured debt, including first lien loans, second lien loans and unitranche loans, and, to a lesser extent, collateralized securities, structured products and other similar securities, unsecured debt, and equity, of private and thinly-traded U.S. middle-market companies.
The Company is managed by CION Investment Management, LLC, or CIM, a registered investment adviser and an affiliate of the Company. Pursuant to an investment advisory agreement with the Company, CIM oversees the management of the Company’s activities and is responsible for making investment decisions for the Company’s investment portfolio. On August 7, 2023, the board of directors of the Company, including a majority of the board of directors who are not interested persons, approved the renewal of the second amended and restated investment advisory agreement with CIM for a period oftwelve months, commencing August 9, 2023. The Company has also entered into an administration agreement with CIM to provide the Company with administrative services necessary for it to operate. The Company and CIM previously engaged Apollo Investment Management, L.P., or AIM, a subsidiary of Apollo Global Management, Inc., or, together with its subsidiaries, Apollo, a leading global alternative investment manager, to act as the Company’s investment sub-adviser.
On July 11, 2017, the members of CIM entered into a third amended and restated limited liability company agreement of CIM, or the Third Amended CIM LLC Agreement, for the purpose of creating a joint venture between AIM and CION Investment Group, LLC, or CIG, an affiliate of the Company. Under the Third Amended CIM LLC Agreement, AIM became a member of CIM and was issued a newly-created class of membership interests in CIM pursuant to which AIM, among other things, shares in the profits, losses, distributions and expenses of CIM with the other members in accordance with the terms of the Third Amended CIM LLC Agreement, which results in CIG and AIM each owning a 50% economic interest in CIM.
On July 10, 2017, the Company’s independent directors unanimously approved the termination of the investment sub-advisory agreement with AIM, effective as of July 11, 2017. Although the investment sub-advisory agreement and AIM's engagement as the Company’s investment sub-adviser were terminated, AIM continues to perform certain services for CIM and the Company. AIM is not paid a separate fee in exchange for such services, but is entitled to receive distributions as a member of CIM as described above.
On December 4, 2017, the members of CIM entered into a fourth amended and restated limited liability company agreement of CIM, or the Fourth Amended CIM LLC Agreement, under which AIM performs certain services for CIM, which include, among other services, providing (a) trade and settlement support; (b) portfolio and cash reconciliation; (c) market pipeline information regarding syndicated deals, in each case, as reasonably requested by CIM; and (d) monthly valuation reports and support for all broker-quoted investments. AIM may also, from time to time, provide the Company with access to potential investment opportunities made available on Apollo's credit platform on a similar basis as other third-party market participants. All of the Company's investment decisions are the sole responsibility of, and are made at the sole discretion of, CIM's investment committee, which consists entirely of CIG senior personnel.
The amended and restated investment advisory agreement was approved by shareholders on August 9, 2021 at the Company’s reconvened 2021 annual meeting of shareholders. As a result, on August 10, 2021, the Company and CIM entered into the amended and restated investment advisory agreement in order to implement the change to the calculation of the subordinated incentive fee payable from the Company to CIM that expresses the hurdle rate required for CIM to earn, and be paid, the incentive fee as a percentage of the Company’s net assets rather than adjusted capital.
On October 5, 2021, the Company's shares of common stock commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange, or the NYSE, under the ticker symbol "CION", or the Listing. As a result, on October 5, 2021, the Company and CIM entered into the second amended and restated investment advisory agreement in order to implement the changes to the advisory fees payable from the Company to CIM that became effective upon the Listing that (i) reduced the annual base management fee, (ii) amended the structure of the subordinated incentive fee on income payable by the Company to CIM and reduced the hurdle and incentive fee rates, and (iii) reduced the incentive fee on capital gains payable by the Company to CIM (as described in further detail in Notes 2 and 4). On February 26, 2023, the Company’s shares of common stock and the Company's Series A Notes listed and commenced trading in Israel on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange Ltd., or the TASE, under the ticker symbol “CION” and "CION B1", respectively.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation and Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. The Company is considered an investment company as defined in Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946, Financial Services – Investment Companies, or ASC 946. Accordingly, the required disclosures as outlined in ASC 946 are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company did not consolidate its equity interest in CION SOF Funding, LLC, or CION SOF, and the Company does not consolidate its equity interest in CION/EagleTree Partners, LLC, or CION/EagleTree. See Note 7 for a description of the Company’s investments in CION SOF and CION/EagleTree.
The Company evaluates subsequent events through the date that the consolidated financial statements are issued.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In June 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or the FASB, issued ASU 2022-03, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions, or ASU 2022-03, which clarifies the guidance when measuring the fair value of an equity security subject to contractual restrictions that prohibit the sale of an equity security and introduces new disclosure requirements for equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions that are measured at fair value in accordance with Topic 820. ASU 2022-03 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023. The Company is evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting, or ASU 2020-04, which provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to contract modifications, hedging relationships and other transactions, subject to meeting certain criteria, that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of the reference rate reform. ASU 2020-04 is effective for all entities as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The expedients and exceptions provided by this guidance do not apply to contract modifications and hedging relationships entered into or evaluated after December 31, 2022. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU No. 2022-06, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848, which deferred the sunset date of this guidance to December 31, 2024. The Company is evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in banks and highly liquid investments with original maturity dates of three months or less. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents are held principally at one financial institution and at times may exceed insured limits. The Company periodically evaluates the creditworthiness of this institution and has not experienced any losses on such deposits.
Foreign Currency Translations
The accounting records of the Company are maintained in U.S. dollars. All assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the foreign exchange rate on the date of valuation. The Company does not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from changes in foreign exchange rates on investments from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Changes in the relationship of foreign currencies to the U.S. dollar can significantly affect the value of these investments and therefore the earnings of the Company.
Short Term Investments
Short term investments include an investment in a U.S. Treasury obligations fund, which seeks to provide current income and daily liquidity by purchasing U.S. Treasury securities and repurchase agreements that are collateralized by such securities. The Company had $113,446 and $10,869 of such investments at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which are included in investments, at fair value on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and on the consolidated schedules of investments.
Income Taxes
The Company elected to be treated for federal income tax purposes as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. To qualify and maintain qualification as a RIC, the Company must, among other things, meet certain source of income and asset diversification requirements and distribute to shareholders, for each taxable year, at least 90% of the Company’s “investment company taxable income”, which is generally equal to the sum of the Company’s net ordinary income plus the excess, if any, of realized net short-term capital gains over realized net long-term capital losses. If the Company continues to qualify as a RIC and continues to satisfy the annual distribution requirement, the Company will not be subject to corporate level federal income taxes on any income that the Company distributes to its shareholders. The Company intends to make distributions in an amount sufficient to maintain RIC status each year and to avoid any federal income taxes on income. The Company will also be subject to nondeductible federal excise taxes if the Company does not distribute at least 98.0% of net ordinary income, 98.2% of capital gains, if any, and any recognized and undistributed income from prior years for which it paid no federal income taxes.
Two of the Company’s wholly-owned consolidated subsidiaries, View ITC, LLC and View Rise, LLC, or collectively the Taxable Subsidiaries, have elected to be treated as taxable entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, the Taxable Subsidiaries are not consolidated with the Company for income tax purposes and may generate income tax expense or benefit, and the related tax assets and liabilities, as a result of their ownership of certain portfolio investments. The income tax expense or benefit, if any, and the related tax assets and liabilities, where material, are reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. There were no deferred tax assets or liabilities as of December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Book/tax differences relating to permanent differences are reclassified among the Company’s capital accounts, as appropriate. Additionally, the tax character of distributions is determined in accordance with income tax regulations that may differ from GAAP (see Note 14).
Uncertainty in Income Taxes
The Company evaluates its tax positions to determine if the tax positions taken meet the minimum recognition threshold for the purposes of measuring and recognizing tax liabilities in the consolidated financial statements. Recognition of a tax benefit or liability with respect to an uncertain tax position is required only when the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by the taxing authorities. The Company recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company did not have any uncertain tax positions during the periods presented herein.
The Company is subject to examination by U.S. federal, New York State, New York City and Maryland income tax jurisdictions for 2020, 2021 and 2022.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results may materially differ from those estimates.
Valuation of Portfolio Investments
The fair value of the Company’s investments is determined quarterly in good faith by the Company’s board of directors pursuant to its consistently applied valuation procedures and valuation process in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure, or ASC 820. In accordance with Rule 2a-5 of the 1940 Act, the Company’s board of directors has designated CIM as the Company’s “valuation designee.” The Company’s board of directors and the audit committee of the board of directors, the latter of which is comprised solely of independent directors, oversees the activities, methodology and processes of the valuation designee. ASC 820 defines fair value as the price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. ASC 820 also establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy that prioritizes and ranks the level of market price observability of inputs used in measuring investments at fair value. Inputs used to measure these fair values are classified into the following hierarchy:
Level 1 -Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities, accessible by the Company at the measurement date.
Level 2 -Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, or quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other observable inputs other than quoted prices.
Level 3 -Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. The inputs used in the determination of fair value may require significant management judgment or estimation. Such information may be the result of consensus pricing information or broker quotes that include a disclaimer that the broker would not be held to such a price in an actual transaction. The non-binding nature of consensus pricing and/or quotes accompanied by the disclaimer would result in classification as a Level 3 asset, assuming no additional corroborating evidence.
Market price observability is affected by a number of factors, including the type of investment and the characteristics specific to the investment. Investments with readily available active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of market price observability and a lesser degree of judgment used in measuring fair value.
Based on the observability of the inputs used in the valuation techniques, the Company is required to provide disclosures on fair value measurements according to the fair value hierarchy. The level in the fair value hierarchy for each fair value measurement has been determined based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to each investment. The level assigned to the investment valuations may not be indicative of the risk or liquidity associated with investing in such investments. Because of the inherent uncertainties of valuation, the values reflected in the consolidated financial statements may differ materially from the value that would be received upon an actual sale of such investments. In addition, changes in the market environment and other events that may occur over the life of the investments may cause the gains or losses that the Company ultimately realizes on these investments to materially differ from the valuations currently assigned.
A portion of the Company’s investments consist of debt securities that are traded on a private over-the-counter market for institutional investments. CIM attempts to obtain market quotations from at least two brokers or dealers for each investment (if available, otherwise from a principal market maker or a primary market dealer or other independent pricing service). CIM typically uses the average midpoint of the broker bid/ask price to determine fair value unless a different point within the range is more representative. Because of the private nature of this marketplace (meaning actual transactions are not publicly reported) and the non-binding nature of consensus pricing and/or quotes, the Company believes that these valuation inputs result in Level 3 classification within the fair value hierarchy. As these quotes are only indicative of fair value, CIM benchmarks the implied fair value yield and leverage against what has been observed in the market. If the implied fair value yield and leverage fall within the range of CIM's market pricing matrix, the quotes are deemed to be reliable and used to determine the investment's fair value.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if in the reasonable judgment of CIM, the price of any investment held by the Company and determined in the manner described above does not accurately reflect the fair value of such investment, CIM will value such investment at a price that reflects such investment’s fair value and report such change in the valuation to the board of directors or its designee as soon as practicable. Investments that carry certain restrictions on sale will typically be valued at a discount from the public market value of the investment.
Any investments that are not publicly traded or for which a market price is not otherwise readily available are valued at a price that reflects its fair value. With respect to such investments, if CIM is unable to obtain market quotations, the investments are reviewed and valued using one or more of the following types of analyses:
i. Market comparable statistics and public trading multiples discounted for illiquidity, minority ownership and other factors for companies with similar characteristics.
ii. Valuations implied by third-party investments in the applicable portfolio companies.
iii. A benchmarking analysis to compare implied fair value and leverage to comparable market investments.
iv. Discounted cash flow analysis, including a terminal value or exit multiple.
Determination of fair value involves subjective judgments and estimates. Accordingly, these notes to the Company’s consolidated financial statements refer to the uncertainty with respect to the possible effect of such valuations, and any change in such valuations, on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Below is a description of factors that CIM may consider when valuing the Company’s equity and debt investments where a market price is not readily available:
the size and scope of a portfolio company and its specific strengths and weaknesses;
prevailing interest rates for like securities;
expected volatility in future interest rates;
leverage;
call features, put features, fees and other relevant terms of the debt;
the borrower’s ability to adequately service its debt;
the fair market value of the portfolio company in relation to the face amount of its outstanding debt;
the quality of collateral securing the Company’s debt investments;
multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, cash flows, net income, revenues or, in some cases, book value or liquidation value; and
other factors deemed applicable.
All of these factors may be subject to adjustment based upon the particular circumstances of a portfolio company or the Company’s actual investment position. For example, adjustments to EBITDA may take into account compensation to previous owners, or acquisition, recapitalization, and restructuring expenses or other related or non-recurring items. The choice of analyses and the weight assigned to such factors may vary across investments and may change within an investment if events occur that warrant such a change.
When CIM uses the discounted cash flow model to value the Company's investments, such model deemed appropriate by CIM is prepared for the applicable investments and reviewed by designated members of CIM’s management team. Such models are prepared at least quarterly or on an as needed basis. The model uses the estimated cash flow projections for the underlying investments and an appropriate discount rate is determined based on the latest financial information available for the borrower, prevailing market trends, comparable analysis and other inputs. The model, key assumptions, inputs, and results are reviewed by designated members of CIM’s management team with final approval from the board of directors or its designee.
Consistent with the Company’s valuation policy, the Company evaluates the source of inputs, including any markets in which the Company’s investments are trading, in determining fair value.
The Company periodically benchmarks the broker quotes from the brokers or dealers against the actual prices at which the Company purchases and sells its investments. Based on the results of the benchmark analysis and the experience of the Company’s management in purchasing and selling these investments, the Company believes that these quotes are reliable indicators of fair value. The Company may also use other methods to determine fair value for securities for which it cannot obtain market quotations through brokers or dealers, including the use of an independent valuation firm. Designated members of CIM’s management team and the Company's board of directors or its designee review and approve the valuation determinations made with respect to these investments in a manner consistent with the Company’s valuation process.
As a practical expedient, the Company used net asset value, or NAV, as the fair value for its equity investments in CION SOF and BCP Great Lakes Fund LP, and the Company uses NAV as the fair value for its equity investment in CION/EagleTree. CION SOF and BCP Great Lakes Fund LP recorded, and CION/EagleTree records, its underlying investments at fair value on a quarterly basis in accordance with ASC 820.
Revenue Recognition
Securities transactions are accounted for on the trade date. The Company records interest and dividend income on an accrual basis beginning on the trade settlement date or the ex-dividend date, respectively, to the extent that the Company expects to collect such amounts. For investments in equity tranches of collateralized loan obligations, the Company records income based on the effective interest rate determined using the amortized cost and estimated cash flows, which is updated periodically. Loan origination fees, original issue discounts, or OID, and market discounts/premiums are recorded and such amounts are amortized as adjustments to interest income over the respective term of the loan using the effective interest rate method. Upon the prepayment of a loan or security, prepayment premiums, any unamortized loan origination fees, OID, or market discounts/premiums are recorded as interest income.
The Company may have investments in its investment portfolio that contain a PIK interest provision. PIK interest is accrued as interest income if the portfolio company valuation indicates that such PIK interest is collectible and recorded as interest receivable up to the interest payment date. On the interest payment dates, the Company will capitalize the accrued interest receivable attributable to PIK as additional principal due from the borrower. Additional PIK securities typically have the same terms, including maturity dates and interest rates, as the original securities. In order to maintain RIC status, substantially all of this income must be paid out to shareholders in the form of distributions, even if the Company has not collected any cash. For additional information on investments that contain a PIK interest provision, see the consolidated schedules of investments as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Loans and debt securities, including those that are individually identified as being impaired under Accounting Standards Codification 310, Receivables, or ASC 310, are generally placed on non-accrual status immediately if, in the opinion of management, principal or interest is not likely to be paid, or when principal or interest is past due 90 days or more. Interest accrued but not collected at the date a loan or security is placed on non-accrual status is reversed against interest income. Interest income is recognized on non-accrual loans or debt securities only to the extent received in cash. However, where there is doubt regarding the ultimate collectability of principal, cash receipts, whether designated as principal or interest, are thereafter applied to reduce the carrying value of the loan or debt security. Loans or securities are restored to accrual status only when interest and principal payments are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.
Dividend income on preferred equity securities is recorded on an accrual basis to the extent that such amounts are payable by the portfolio company and are expected to be collected. Dividend income on common equity securities is recorded on the record date for private portfolio companies or on the ex-dividend date for publicly-traded portfolio companies.
The Company may receive fees for capital structuring services that are fixed based on contractual terms, are normally paid at the closing of the investment, are generally non-recurring and non-refundable and are recognized as revenue when earned upon closing of the investment. The services that CIM provides vary by investment, but generally include reviewing existing credit facilities, arranging bank financing, arranging equity financing, structuring financing from multiple lenders, structuring financing from multiple equity investors, restructuring existing loans, raising equity and debt capital, and providing general financial advice, which concludes upon closing of the investment. In certain instances where the Company is invited to participate as a co-lender in a transaction and does not provide significant services in connection with the investment, a portion of loan fees paid to the Company in such situations will be deferred and amortized over the estimated life of the loan as interest income.
Other income includes amendment fees that are fixed based on contractual terms and are generally non-recurring and non-refundable and are recognized as revenue when earned upon closing of the transaction. Other income also includes fees for managerial assistance and other consulting services, loan guarantees, commitments, and other services rendered by the Company to its portfolio companies. Such fees are fixed based on contractual terms and are recognized as fee income when earned.
Net Realized Gains or Losses and Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation or Depreciation
Gains or losses on the sale of investments are calculated by using the weighted-average method. The Company measures realized gains or losses by the difference between the net proceeds from the sale and the weighted-average amortized cost of the investment, without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized, but considering unamortized upfront fees. Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation reflects the change in portfolio investment values during the reporting period, including any reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation or depreciation when gains or losses are realized.
Capital Gains Incentive Fee
Pursuant to the terms of the investment advisory agreement the Company entered into with CIM, the incentive fee on capital gains earned on liquidated investments of the Company’s investment portfolio during operations is determined and payable in arrears as of the end of each calendar year. Prior to October 5, 2021 and under the investment advisory agreement, such fee equaled 20% of the Company’s incentive fee capital gains (i.e., the Company’s realized capital gains on a cumulative basis from inception, calculated as of the end of each calendar year, computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation on a cumulative basis), less the aggregate amount of any previously paid capital gains incentive fees. Pursuant to the second amended and restated investment advisory agreement, the incentive fee on capital gains was reduced to 17.5%, which became effective on October 5, 2021.
On a cumulative basis and to the extent that all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation exceed realized capital gains as well as the aggregate realized net capital gains for which a fee has previously been paid, the Company would not be required to pay CIM a capital gains incentive fee. On a quarterly basis, the Company accrues for the capital gains incentive fee by calculating such fee as if it were due and payable as of the end of such period.
While the investment advisory agreement with CIM neither includes nor contemplates the inclusion of unrealized gains in the calculation of the capital gains incentive fee, pursuant to an interpretation of the American Institute for Certified Public Accountants, or AICPA, Technical Practice Aid for investment companies, the Company accrues capital gains incentive fees on unrealized gains. This accrual reflects the incentive fees that would be payable to CIM if the Company’s entire investment portfolio was liquidated at its fair value as of the balance sheet date even though CIM is not entitled to an incentive fee with respect to unrealized gains unless and until such gains are actually realized.
Net Increase in Net Assets per Share
Net increase in net assets per share is calculated based upon the daily weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the reporting period.
Distributions
Distributions to shareholders are recorded as of the record date. The amount paid as a distribution is declared by the Company's co-chief executive officers and ratified by the board of directors on a quarterly basis. Net realized capital gains, if any, are distributed at least annually.
Note 3. Share Transactions
The Company’s initial continuous public offering commenced on July 2, 2012 and ended on December 31, 2015. The Company’s follow-on continuous public offering commenced on January 25, 2016 and ended on January 25, 2019.
The following table summarizes transactions with respect to shares of the Company’s outstanding common stock during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
| Years Ended December 31, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | ||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |
| Gross shares/proceeds from the offering | — | $— | — | $— | — | $— |
| Reinvestment of distributions | — | — | — | — | 970,223 | 15,489 |
| Total shares/proceeds | — | — | — | — | 970,223 | 15,489 |
| Share repurchase program | (1,114,848) | (11,518) | (1,658,956) | (15,444) | (658,650) | (10,467) |
| Net shares/proceeds (for) from share transactions | (1,114,848) | $(11,518) | (1,658,956) | $(15,444) | 311,573 | $5,022 |
Since commencing its initial continuous public offering on July 2, 2012 and through December 31, 2023, the Company sold 54,184,636 shares of common stock for net proceeds of $1,133,345. The net proceeds include gross proceeds received from reinvested shareholder distributions of $237,451, for which the Company issued 13,523,489 shares of common stock, and gross proceeds paid for shares of common stock repurchased of $259,392, for which the Company repurchased 16,084,731 shares of common stock. As of December 31, 2023,16,084,731 shares of common stock repurchased had been retired.
On September 15, 2023, the Company's shareholders approved a proposal that authorizes the Company to issue shares of its common stock at prices below the then current NAV per share of the Company’s common stock in one or more offerings for a 12-month period following such shareholder approval. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has not issued any such shares.
Distribution Reinvestment Plan
In connection with the Listing of its shares of common stock on the NYSE, on September 15, 2021, the Company terminated its previous fifth amended and restated distribution reinvestment plan, or the Old DRP. The final distribution reinvestment under the Old DRP was made as part of the regular monthly distribution paid on September 14, 2021. On September 15, 2021, the Company adopted a new distribution reinvestment plan, or the New DRP, which became effective as of the Listing and first applied to the reinvestment of distributions paid on December 8, 2021. For additional information regarding the terms of the New DRP, see Note 5.
Reverse Stock Split
Effective on September 21, 2021, every two shares of the Company's common stock then issued and outstanding were automatically combined into one share of the Company's common stock, with the number of then issued and outstanding shares reduced from 113,916,869 to 56,958,440. The reverse stock split amendment also provided that there was no change in the par value of $0.001 per share as a result of the reverse stock split. In addition, the reverse stock split did not modify the rights or preferences of the Company’s common stock.
Listing and Fractional Shares
On October 5, 2021, the Company's shares of common stock commenced trading on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “CION”. As approved by shareholders on September 7, 2021, the Listing was staggered such that (i) up to 1/3rd of shares held by all shareholders were available for trading upon Listing, (ii) up to 2/3rd of shares held by all shareholders were available for trading starting 180 days after Listing, or April 4, 2022, and (iii) all shares were available for trading starting 270 days after Listing, or July 5, 2022. The Company eliminated all then outstanding fractional shares of its common stock in connection with the Listing, as permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law, on July 14, 2022. On February 26, 2023, the Company’s shares of common stock also listed and commenced trading in Israel on the TASE under the ticker symbol “CION”.
Pre-Listing Share Repurchase Program
Historically, the Company offered to repurchase shares on a quarterly basis on such terms as determined by the Company’s board of directors in its complete and absolute discretion unless, in the judgment of the independent directors of the Company’s board of directors, such repurchases would not have been in the best interests of the Company’s shareholders or would have violated applicable law.
On July 30, 2021, the Company's board of directors, including the independent directors, determined to suspend the Company's pre-Listing share repurchase program commencing with the third quarter of 2021 in anticipation of the Listing and the concurrent enhanced liquidity the Listing was expected to provide. The pre-Listing share repurchase program ultimately terminated upon the Listing and the Company does not expect to implement a new quarterly share repurchase program in the future.
Historically, the Company generally limited the number of shares to be repurchased during any calendar year to the number of shares it could have repurchased with the proceeds it received from the issuance of shares pursuant to the Old DRP. At the discretion of the Company’s board of directors, it could have also used cash on hand, cash available from borrowings and cash from liquidation of investments as of the end of the applicable period to repurchase shares. The Company offered to repurchase such shares at a price equal to the estimated NAV per share on each date of repurchase.
Any periodic repurchase offers were subject in part to the Company’s available cash and compliance with the BDC and RIC qualification and diversification rules promulgated under the 1940 Act and the Code, respectively.
On September 15, 2021, the Company’s board of directors, including the independent directors, approved a share repurchase policy authorizing the Company to repurchase up to $50 million of its outstanding common stock after the Listing. On June 24, 2022, the Company’s board of directors, including the independent directors, increased the amount of shares of the Company’s common stock that may be repurchased under the share repurchase policy by $10 million to up to an aggregate of $60 million. Under the share repurchase policy, the Company may purchase shares of its common stock through various means such as open market transactions, including block purchases, and privately negotiated transactions. The number of shares repurchased and the timing, manner, price and amount of any repurchases will be determined at the Company's discretion. Factors include, but are not limited to, share price, trading volume and general market conditions, along with the Company’s general business conditions. The policy may be suspended or discontinued at any time and does not obligate the Company to acquire any specific number of shares of its common stock.
On August 29, 2023, as part of the share repurchase policy, the Company entered into a new trading plan with an independent broker, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, or Wells Fargo, in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, based in part on historical trading data with respect to the Company’s shares. The 10b5-1 trading plan permits common stock to be repurchased at a time that the Company might otherwise be precluded from doing so under insider trading laws or self-imposed trading restrictions. The 10b5-1 trading plan expires on August 29, 2024, and is subject to price, market volume and timing restrictions.
The following table summarizes the share repurchases completed during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023:
| Period | Total Number of Shares Repurchased | Average Price Paid per Share | Total Number of Shares Repurchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs | Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Repurchased Under Publicly Announced Plans or Programs(1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 to January 31, 2022 | — | N/A | — | — |
| February 1 to February 28, 2022 | — | N/A | — | — |
| March 1 to March 31, 2022 | — | N/A | — | — |
| April 1 to April 30, 2022 | — | N/A | — | — |
| May 1 to May 31, 2022 | — | N/A | — | — |
| June 1 to June 30, 2022 | — | N/A | — | — |
| July 1 to July 31, 2022 | — | N/A | — | — |
| August 1 to August 31, 2022 | 170,424 | $10.52 | 170,424 | $58,210 |
| September 1 to September 30, 2022 | 525,052 | 9.37 | 525,052 | 53,303 |
| October 1 to October 31, 2022 | 738,221 | 8.91 | 738,221 | 46,740 |
| November 1 to November 30, 2022 | 225,259 | 9.57 | 225,259 | 44,589 |
| December 1 to December 31, 2022 | — | N/A | — | 44,589 |
| Total for the year ended December 31, 2022 | 1,658,956 | 1,658,956 | ||
| January 1 to January 31, 2023 | 129,873 | $10.58 | 129,873 | $43,218 |
| February 1 to February 28, 2023 | 114,733 | 11.06 | 114,733 | 41,951 |
| March 1 to March 31, 2023 | 93,423 | 10.17 | 93,423 | 41,003 |
| April 1 to April 30, 2023 | 126,980 | 9.69 | 126,980 | 39,775 |
| May 1 to May 31, 2023 | 86,950 | 9.34 | 86,950 | 38,964 |
| June 1 to June 30, 2023 | 114,698 | 10.31 | 114698 | 37,784 |
| July 1 to July 31, 2023 | 54,048 | 10.74 | 54048 | 37,205 |
| August 1 to August 31, 2023 | 18,518 | 10.96 | 18518 | 37,002 |
| September 1 to September 30, 2023 | 95,457 | 10.65 | 95,457 | 35,988 |
| October 1 to October 31, 2023 | 145,599 | 10.08 | 145,599 | 34,056 |
| November 1 to November 30, 2023 | 45,556 | 10.26 | 45,556 | 34,056 |
| December 1 to December 31, 2023 | 89,013 | 10.84 | 89,013 | 33,093 |
| Total for the year ended December 31, 2023 | 1,114,848 | 1,114,848 |
(1) - Amounts do not include any commissions paid to Wells Fargo on shares repurchased.
From January 1, 2024 to March 6, 2024, the Company repurchased 340,505 shares of common stock under the 10b5-1 trading plan for an aggregate purchase price of $3,750, or an average purchase price of $11.01 per share. As of March 6, 2024,16,084,731 shares of common stock repurchased by the Company had been retired.
Note 4. Transactions with Related Parties
For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, fees and other expenses incurred by the Company related to CIM and its affiliates were as follows:
| Years Ended December 31, | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entity | Capacity | Description | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
| CIM | Investment adviser | Management fees(1) | $26,856 | $27,361 | $31,143 |
| CIM | Investment adviser | Incentive fees(1) | 22,277 | 18,710 | 6,875 |
| CIM | Administrative services provider | Administrative services expense(1) | 3,971 | 3,348 | 3,069 |
| Apollo Investment Administration, L.P. | Administrative services provider | Transaction costs(1) | — | — | 105 |
| $53,104 | $49,419 | $41,192 | |||
(1)Amounts charged directly to operations.
The Company has entered into an investment advisory agreement with CIM. On August 7, 2023, the board of directors of the Company, including a majority of the board of directors who are not interested persons, approved the renewal of the second amended and restated investment advisory agreement with CIM for a period of twelve months, commencing August 9, 2023. Pursuant to the investment advisory agreement in effect prior to the Listing, CIM was paid an annual base management fee equal to 2.0% of the average value of the Company’s gross assets, less cash and cash equivalents, and an incentive fee based on the Company’s performance, as described below. Pursuant to the second amended and restated investment advisory agreement, which was effective upon the Listing on October 5, 2021, the annual base management fee was reduced to 1.5% of the average value of the Company’s gross assets (including cash pledged as collateral for the Company’s secured financing arrangements, but excluding other cash and cash equivalents so that investors do not pay the base management fee on such assets), to the extent that the Company’s asset coverage ratio is greater than or equal to 200% (i.e., $1 of debt outstanding for each $1 of equity); provided that, the annual base management fee will be reduced further to 1.0% for any such gross assets purchased with leverage resulting in the Company’s asset coverage ratio dropping below 200%. On December 30, 2021, shareholders approved a proposal to reduce the Company’s asset coverage ratio to 150%. As a result, commencing on December 31, 2021, the Company is required to maintain asset coverage for its senior securities of 150% (i.e., $2 of debt outstanding for each $1 of equity) rather than 200%. The base management fee is payable quarterly in arrears and is calculated based on the two most recently completed calendar quarters.
The incentive fee consists of two parts. The first part, which is referred to as the subordinated incentive fee on income, is calculated and payable quarterly in arrears based on “pre-incentive fee net investment income” for the immediately preceding quarter and was subject to a hurdle rate, measured quarterly and expressed as a rate of return on adjusted capital, as defined in the investment advisory agreement in effect prior to the Listing, equal to 1.875% per quarter, or an annualized rate of 7.5%. Under the investment advisory agreement in effect prior to the Listing, the Company paid to CIM 100% of pre-incentive fee net investment income once the hurdle rate was exceeded until the annualized rate of 9.375% was exceeded, at which point the Company paid to CIM 20% of all pre-incentive fee net investment income that exceeded the annualized rate of 9.375%. Under the amended and restated investment advisory agreement also in effect prior to the Listing, the change to the calculation of the subordinated incentive fee payable to CIM that expresses the hurdle rate required for CIM to earn, and be paid, the incentive fee as a percentage of the Company's net assets rather than adjusted capital was implemented. Under the second amended and restated investment advisory agreement, the hurdle rate was reduced to 1.625% per quarter, or an annualized rate of 6.5%, and the Company pays to CIM 100% of pre-incentive fee net investment income once the hurdle rate is exceeded until the annualized rate of 7.879% is exceeded, at which point the Company pays to CIM 17.5% of all pre-incentive fee net investment income. These changes to the subordinated incentive fee on income were effective upon the Listing, except for the change to the calculation of the subordinated incentive fee payable to CIM that replaced adjusted capital with the Company's net assets, which was effective on August 10, 2021. For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded subordinated incentive fees on income of $22,277 and $18,710, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the liabilities recorded for subordinated incentive fees were $4,615 and $5,065, respectively. The second part of the incentive fee, which is referred to as the capital gains incentive fee, is described in Note 2.
The Company accrues the capital gains incentive fee based on net realized gains and net unrealized appreciation; however, under the terms of the investment advisory agreement, the fee payable to CIM is based on net realized gains and unrealized depreciation and no such fee is payable with respect to unrealized appreciation unless and until such appreciation is actually realized. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company had no liability for and did not record any capital gains incentive fees.
On April 1, 2018, the Company entered into an administration agreement with CIM pursuant to which CIM furnishes the Company with administrative services including accounting, investor relations and other administrative services necessary to conduct its day-to-day operations. CIM is reimbursed for administrative expenses it incurs on the Company’s behalf in performing its obligations, provided that such reimbursement is for the lower of CIM’s actual costs or the amount that the Company would have been required to pay for comparable administrative services in the same geographic location. Such costs are reasonably allocated to the Company on the basis of assets, revenues, time records or other reasonable methods. The Company does not reimburse CIM for any services for which it receives a separate fee or for rent, depreciation, utilities, capital equipment or other administrative items allocated to a person with a controlling interest in CIM. On August 7, 2023, the board of directors of the Company, including a majority of the board of directors who are not interested persons, approved the renewal of the administration agreement with CIM for a period of twelve months commencing August 9, 2023.
On January 1, 2019, the Company entered into a servicing agreement with Apollo Investment Administration, L.P., or AIA, pursuant to which AIA furnished the Company with administrative services including, but not limited to, loan and high yield trading services, trade and settlement support, and supplementary investment valuation information. AIA was reimbursed for administrative expenses it incurred on the Company’s behalf in performing its obligations, provided that such reimbursement was reasonable, and costs and expenses incurred were documented. The servicing agreement may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by either party, upon 60 days' written notice to the other party.
On January 30, 2013, the Company entered into the expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement with CIG, whereby CIG agreed to provide expense support to the Company in an amount that was sufficient to: (1) ensure that no portion of the Company’s distributions to shareholders was paid from its offering proceeds or borrowings, and/or (2) reduce the Company’s operating expenses until it achieved economies of scale sufficient to ensure that the Company bore a reasonable level of expense in relation to its investment income. On December 16, 2015, the Company further amended and restated the expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement for purposes of including AIM as a party to the agreement. On January 2, 2018, the Company entered into an expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement with CIM for purposes of, among other things, replacing CIG and AIM with CIM as the expense support provider pursuant to the terms of the expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement.
Pursuant to the expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement, the Company had a conditional obligation to reimburse CIM for any amounts funded by CIM under such agreement (i) if expense support amounts funded by CIM exceeded operating expenses incurred during any fiscal quarter, (ii) if the sum of the Company’s net investment income for tax purposes, net capital gains and the amount of any dividends and other distributions paid to the Company on account of investments in portfolio companies (to the extent not included in net investment income or net capital gains for tax purposes) exceeded the distributions paid by the Company to shareholders, and (iii) during any fiscal quarter that occurred within three years of the date on which CIM funded such amount. The obligation to reimburse CIM for any expense support provided by CIM under such agreement was further conditioned by the following: (i) in the period in which reimbursement was sought, the ratio of operating expenses to average net assets, when considering the reimbursement, could not have exceeded the ratio of operating expenses to average net assets, as defined, for the period when the expense support was provided; (ii) in the period when reimbursement was sought, the annualized distribution rate could not have fallen below the annualized distribution rate for the period when the expense support was provided; and (iii) the expense support could have only been reimbursed within three years from the date the expense support was provided.
Expense support, if any, was determined as appropriate to meet the objectives of the expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement. On December 31, 2021, the Company and CIM allowed the expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement to expire in accordance with its terms. There was no unreimbursed expense support funded by CIM upon such expiration. The specific amount of expense support provided by CIM, if any, was determined at the end of each quarter. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company did not receive any expense support from CIM. See Note 5 for additional information on the sources of the Company’s distributions. The Company did not record any obligation to repay expense support from CIM and the Company did not repay any expense support to CIM during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the total liability payable to CIM and its affiliates was $13,664 and $13,692, respectively, which primarily related to fees earned by CIM during the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
In the event that CIM undertakes to provide investment advisory services to other clients in the future, it will strive to allocate investment opportunities in a fair and equitable manner consistent with the Company’s investment objective and strategies so that the Company will not be disadvantaged in relation to any other client of the investment adviser or its senior management team. However, it is currently possible that some investment opportunities will be provided to other clients of CIM rather than to the Company.
Indemnifications
The investment advisory agreement, the administration agreement and the dealer manager agreement each provide certain indemnifications from the Company to the other relevant parties to such agreements. The Company’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown. However, the Company has not experienced claims or losses pursuant to these agreements and believes the risk of loss related to such indemnifications to be remote.
Note 5. Distributions
From February 1, 2014 through July 17, 2017, the Company’s board of directors authorized and declared on a monthly basis a weekly distribution amount per share of common stock. On July 18, 2017, the Company's board of directors authorized and declared on a quarterly basis a weekly distribution amount per share of common stock. Effective September 28, 2017, the Company's board of directors delegated to management the authority to determine the amount, record dates, payment dates and other terms of distributions to shareholders, which will be ratified by the board of directors, each on a quarterly basis. Beginning on March 19, 2020, management changed the timing of declaring distributions from quarterly to monthly and temporarily suspended the payment of distributions to shareholders commencing with the month ended April 30, 2020, whether in cash or pursuant to the Old DRP. On July 15, 2020, the board of directors determined to recommence the payment of distributions to shareholders in August 2020. On September 15, 2021, management changed the timing of declaring and paying regular distributions to shareholders from monthly to quarterly commencing with the fourth quarter of 2021. Distributions in respect of future quarters and any supplemental or special distributions will be evaluated by management and the board of directors based on circumstances and expectations existing at the time of consideration. Declared regular distributions are paid quarterly.
The Company’s management declared and the Company's board of directors ratified distributions for 7, 5 and 11 record dates during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
The following table presents distributions per share that were declared during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
| Distributions | ||
|---|---|---|
| Three Months Ended | Per Share(1) | Amount |
| March 31, 2021 (three record dates) | $0.2648 | $15,029 |
| June 30, 2021 (three record dates) | 0.2648 | 15,000 |
| September 30, 2021 (three record dates) | 0.2648 | 15,027 |
| December 31, 2021 (two record dates) | 0.4648 | 26,474 |
| Total distributions for the year ended December 31, 2021 | $1.2592 | $71,530 |
| March 31, 2022 (one record date) | $0.2800 | $15,948 |
| June 30, 2022 (one record date) | 0.2800 | 15,949 |
| September 30, 2022 (one record date) | 0.3100 | 17,604 |
| December 31, 2022 (two record dates) | 0.5800 | 32,074 |
| Total distributions for the year ended December 31, 2022 | $1.4500 | $81,575 |
| March 31, 2023 (one record date) | $0.3400 | $18,687 |
| June 30, 2023 (one record date) | 0.3400 | 18,614 |
| September 30, 2023 (two record dates) | 0.3900 | 21,276 |
| December 31, 2023 (three record dates) | 0.5400 | 29,290 |
| Total distributions for the year ended December 31, 2023 | $1.6100 | $87,867 |
(1) The per share distribution amount for 2021 has been retroactively adjusted to reflect the reverse stock split as discussed in Note 3.
On March 11, 2024, the Company’s co-chief executive officers declared a regular quarterly distribution of $0.34 per share for the first quarter of 2024 payable on March 28, 2024 to shareholders of record as of March 22, 2024.
In connection with the Listing of its shares of common stock on the NYSE, on September 15, 2021, the Company terminated the Old DRP. The final distribution reinvestment under the Old DRP was made as part of the regular monthly distribution paid on September 14, 2021. On September 15, 2021, the Company adopted the New DRP, which became effective as of the Listing and first applied to the reinvestment of distributions paid on December 8, 2021.
Under the Old DRP and prior to the Listing, distributions to participating shareholders who “opted in” to the Old DRP were reinvested in additional shares of the Company's common stock at a purchase price equal to the estimated NAV per share of common stock as of the date of issuance.
Upon the Listing, all shareholders were automatically enrolled in the New DRP and will receive distributions as declared by the Company in additional shares of its common stock unless such shareholder affirmatively elects to receive an entire distribution in cash by notifying (i) such shareholder’s financial adviser; or (ii) if such shareholder has a registered account maintained at the Company’s transfer agent, the plan administrator. With respect to distributions to participating shareholders under the New DRP, the Company reserves the right to either issue new shares or cause the plan administrator to purchase shares in the open market in connection with implementation of the New DRP. Unless the Company, in its sole discretion, otherwise directs DST Asset Management Solutions, Inc., the plan administrator, (A) if the per share “market price” (as defined in the New DRP) is equal to or greater than the estimated NAV per share on the payment date for the distribution, then the Company will issue shares at the greater of (i) the estimated NAV or (ii)95% of the market price, or (B) if the market price is less than the estimated NAV, then, in the Company’s sole discretion, (i) shares will be purchased in open market transactions for the accounts of participating shareholders to the extent practicable, or (ii) the Company will issue shares at the estimated NAV. Pursuant to the terms of the New DRP, the number of shares to be issued to a participating shareholder will be determined by dividing the total dollar amount of the distribution payable to a participating shareholder by the price per share at which the Company issues such shares; provided, however, that shares purchased in open market transactions by the plan administrator will be allocated to a participating shareholder based on the weighted average purchase price, excluding any brokerage charges or other charges, of all shares purchased in the open market with respect to such distribution.
If a shareholder receives distributions in the form of common stock pursuant to the New DRP, such shareholder generally will be subject to the same federal, state and local tax consequences as if they elected to receive distributions in cash. If the Company’s common stock is trading at or below NAV, a shareholder receiving distributions in the form of additional common stock will be treated as receiving a distribution in the amount of cash that such shareholder would have received if they had elected to receive the distribution in cash. If the Company’s common stock is trading above NAV, a shareholder receiving distributions in the form of additional common stock will be treated as receiving a distribution in the amount of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock. The shareholder’s basis for determining gain or loss upon the sale of common stock received in a distribution will be equal to the total dollar amount of the distribution payable to the shareholder. Any stock received in a distribution will have a holding period for tax purposes commencing on the day following the day on which the shares of common stock are credited to the shareholder’s account.
The following table provides information concerning the Company’s purchases of shares of its common stock in the open market during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023 pursuant to the New DRP in order to satisfy the reinvestment portion of the Company’s distributions:
| Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid per Share | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs | Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under Publicly Announced Plans or Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 to January 31, 2022 | — | $— | — | — |
| February 1 to February 28, 2022 | — | — | — | — |
| March 1 to March 31, 2022 | 54,613 | 14.77 | 54,613 | (1) |
| April 1 to April 30, 2022 | — | — | — | — |
| May 1 to May 31, 2022 | — | — | — | — |
| June 1 to June 30, 2022 | 155,800 | 10.06 | 155,800 | (1) |
| July 1 to July 31, 2022 | — | — | — | — |
| August 1 to August 31, 2022 | — | — | — | — |
| September 1 to September 30, 2022 | 207,602 | 10.14 | 207,602 | (1) |
| October 1 to October 31, 2022 | — | — | — | — |
| November 1 to November 30, 2022 | — | — | — | — |
| December 1 to December 31, 2022 | 182,234 | 10.78 | 182,234 | (1) |
| Total for the year ended December 31, 2022 | 600,249 | $10.74 | 600,249 | (1) |
| Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid per Share | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs | Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under Publicly Announced Plans or Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 to January 31, 2023 | 146,946 | $11.19 | 146,946 | (1) |
| February 1 to February 28, 2023 | — | — | — | — |
| March 1 to March 31, 2023 | 204,427 | 9.78 | 204,427 | (1) |
| April 1 to April 30, 2023 | — | — | — | — |
| May 1 to May 31, 2023 | — | — | — | — |
| June 1 to June 30, 2023 | 174,424 | 10.71 | 174,424 | (1) |
| July 1 to July 31, 2023 | — | — | — | — |
| August 1 to August 31, 2023 | — | — | — | — |
| September 1 to September 30, 2023 | 160,383 | 11.10 | 160,383 | (1) |
| October 1 to October 31, 2023 | 25,764 | 10.30 | 25,764 | (1) |
| November 1 to November 30, 2023 | — | — | — | — |
| December 1 to December 31, 2023 | 139,731 | 11.66 | 139,731 | (1) |
| Total for the year ended December 31, 2023 | 851,675 | $10.79 | 851,675 | (1) |
(1) See the description of the New DRP above.
The Company may fund its distributions to shareholders from any sources of funds available to the Company, including borrowings, net investment income from operations, capital gains proceeds from the sale of assets, non-capital gains proceeds from the sale of assets, and dividends or other distributions paid to it on account of preferred and common equity investments in portfolio companies. Any such distributions can only be sustained if the Company maintains positive investment performance in future periods. There can be no assurances that the Company will maintain such performance in order to sustain these distributions or be able to pay distributions at all. On December 31, 2021, the Company and CIM allowed the expense support and conditional reimbursement agreement to expire in accordance with its terms. As a result, CIM has no obligation to provide expense support to the Company in future periods. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, none of the Company's distributions resulted from expense support from CIM. The Company has not established limits on the amount of funds it may use from available sources to make distributions.
The following table reflects the sources of distributions on a GAAP basis that the Company has declared on its shares of common stock during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
| Years Ended December 31, | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 · 2022 · 2021 | |||||||||
| Source of Distribution | Per Share | Amount | Percentage | Per Share | Amount | Percentage | Per Share(1) | Amount | Percentage |
| Net investment income | $1.6100 | $87,867 | 100.0% | $1.4500 | $81,575 | 100.0% | $1.2592 | $71,530 | 100.0% |
| Total distributions | $1.6100 | $87,867 | 100.0% | $1.4500 | $81,575 | 100.0% | $1.2592 | $71,530 | 100.0% |
(1) The per share amount for 2021 has been retroactively adjusted to reflect the reverse stock split as discussed in Note 3.
Note 6. Investments
The composition of the Company’s investment portfolio as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 at amortized cost and fair value was as follows:
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost(1) | FairValue | Percentage ofInvestmentPortfolio | Cost(1) | FairValue | Percentage ofInvestmentPortfolio | |
| Senior secured first lien debt | $1,604,111 | $1,565,171 | 85.0% | $1,638,995 | $1,579,512 | 90.3% |
| Senior secured second lien debt | 41,280 | 29,111 | 1.6% | 41,036 | 38,769 | 2.2% |
| Collateralized securities and structured products - equity | 2,362 | 1,096 | 0.1% | 2,687 | 1,179 | 0.1% |
| Unsecured debt | 31,693 | 12,874 | 0.7% | 30,427 | 22,643 | 1.3% |
| Equity | 182,738 | 232,572 | 12.6% | 79,595 | 107,058 | 6.1% |
| Subtotal/total percentage | 1,862,184 | 1,840,824 | 100.0% | 1,792,740 | 1,749,161 | 100.0% |
| Short term investments(2) | 113,446 | 113,446 | 10,869 | 10,869 | ||
| Total investments | $1,975,630 | $1,954,270 | $1,803,609 | $1,760,030 | ||
(1)Cost represents the original cost adjusted for the amortization of premiums and/or accretion of discounts, as applicable, for debt investments and cost for equity investments.
The following tables show the composition of the Company’s investment portfolio by industry classification and geographic dispersion, and the percentage, by fair value, of the total investment portfolio assets in such industries and geographies as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industry Classification | Investments atFair Value | Percentage ofInvestment Portfolio | Investments atFair Value | Percentage ofInvestment Portfolio |
| Services: Business | $282,237 | 15.3% | $336,055 | 19.2% |
| Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 238,624 | 13.0% | 237,082 | 13.6% |
| Media: Diversified & Production | 135,037 | 7.3% | 134,927 | 7.7% |
| Retail | 135,000 | 7.3% | 74,718 | 4.3% |
| Media: Advertising, Printing & Publishing | 116,100 | 6.3% | 105,375 | 6.0% |
| Services: Consumer | 107,195 | 5.8% | 115,849 | 6.6% |
| Energy: Oil & Gas | 104,893 | 5.7% | 68,756 | 3.9% |
| Construction & Building | 104,727 | 5.7% | 46,007 | 2.6% |
| Diversified Financials | 85,733 | 4.7% | 99,819 | 5.7% |
| Chemicals, Plastics & Rubber | 82,597 | 4.5% | 66,753 | 3.8% |
| Beverage, Food & Tobacco | 68,780 | 3.7% | 45,396 | 2.6% |
| Consumer Goods: Durable | 59,955 | 3.3% | 60,735 | 3.5% |
| Banking, Finance, Insurance & Real Estate | 52,272 | 2.8% | 43,836 | 2.5% |
| Hotel, Gaming & Leisure | 50,906 | 2.8% | 46,739 | 2.7% |
| Capital Equipment | 49,571 | 2.7% | 41,580 | 2.4% |
| Consumer Goods: Non-Durable | 42,381 | 2.3% | 47,886 | 2.8% |
| High Tech Industries | 22,671 | 1.2% | 56,501 | 3.2% |
| Containers, Packaging & Glass | 18,480 | 1.0% | 19,551 | 1.1% |
| Telecommunications | 17,768 | 1.0% | 18,302 | 1.1% |
| Environmental Industries | 15,336 | 0.8% | — | — |
| Metals & Mining | 13,957 | 0.8% | 15,780 | 0.9% |
| Automotive | 12,403 | 0.7% | 16,255 | 0.9% |
| Transportation: Cargo | 12,201 | 0.7% | 12,417 | 0.7% |
| Aerospace & Defense | 12,000 | 0.6% | 38,842 | 2.2% |
| Subtotal/total percentage | 1,840,824 | 100.0% | 1,749,161 | 100.0% |
| Short term investments | 113,446 | 10,869 | ||
| Total investments | $1,954,270 | $1,760,030 | ||
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geographic Dispersion(1) | Investments atFair Value | Percentage ofInvestment Portfolio | Investments atFair Value | Percentage ofInvestment Portfolio |
| United States | $1,812,416 | 98.4% | $1,739,866 | 99.5% |
| Canada | 26,350 | 1.4% | 7,452 | 0.4% |
| Cayman Islands | 1,096 | 0.1% | 1,179 | 0.1% |
| Bermuda | 962 | 0.1% | 664 | — |
| Subtotal/total percentage | 1,840,824 | 100.0% | 1,749,161 | 100.0% |
| Short term investments | 113,446 | 10,869 | ||
| Total investments | $1,954,270 | $1,760,030 | ||
(1)The geographic dispersion is determined by the portfolio company's country of domicile.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, investments on non-accrual status represented 0.9% and 1.3%, respectively, of the Company's investment portfolio on a fair value basis.
The Company’s investment portfolio may contain senior secured investments that are in the form of lines of credit, delayed draw term loans, revolving credit facilities, or unfunded commitments, which may require the Company to provide funding when requested in accordance with the terms of the underlying agreements. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company’s unfunded commitments amounted to $47,349 and $71,420, respectively. As of March 6, 2024, the Company’s unfunded commitments amounted to $53,048. Since these commitments may expire without being drawn upon, unfunded commitments do not necessarily represent future cash requirements or future earning assets for the Company. Refer to Note 11 for further details on the Company’s unfunded commitments.
Note 7. Joint Ventures
CION/EagleTree Partners, LLC
On December 21, 2021, the Company formed CION/EagleTree, an off-balance sheet joint venture partnership with ET-BC Debt Opportunities, LP, or ET-BC, which is an affiliate of EagleTree Capital, LP, or EagleTree. EagleTree made a Firm-level investment with proprietary capital. CION/EagleTree jointly pursues debt and equity opportunities, as well as special situation, crossover, subordinated and other junior capital investments that leverages the Company's and EagleTree's combined sourcing and portfolio management capabilities.
The Company contributed a portfolio of second lien loans and equity investments and ET-BC contributed proprietary Firm-level cash in exchange for 85% and 15%, respectively, of the senior secured notes, participating preferred equity, and common share interests of CION/EagleTree. The Company and ET-BC are not required to make any additional capital contributions to CION/EagleTree. The Company’s equity investment in CION/EagleTree is not redeemable. All portfolio and other material decisions regarding CION/EagleTree must be submitted to its board of managers, which is comprised offour members, two of whom were selected by the Company and the othertwo were selected by ET-BC. Further, all portfolio and other material decisions require the affirmative vote of at leastone board member from the Company andone board member from ET-BC.
The Company also serves as administrative agent to CION/EagleTree to provide servicing functions and other administrative services. In certain cases, these servicing functions and other administrative services may be performed by CIM. Amounts charged to CION/EagleTree by the Company for services performed by CIM are netted against amounts the Company is charged by CIM for administrative services.
On December 21, 2021, CION/EagleTree issued senior secured notes of $61,629 to the Company and $10,875 to ET-BC, or the CION/EagleTree Notes. The CION/EagleTree Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 14.0% per year and are secured by a first priority security interest in all of the assets of CION/EagleTree. On November 16, 2023, the Company purchased a portion of the CION/EagleTree Notes held by ET-BC. As a result, as of December 31, 2023, the Company held $59,598 and ET-BC held $4,904 of the CION/Eagletree Notes. The obligations of CION/EagleTree under the CION/EagleTree Notes are non-recourse to the Company.
In accordance with ASU 2015-02, Consolidation, the Company determined that CION/EagleTree is not a variable interest entity, or VIE, as the Company is not the primary beneficiary and therefore does not consolidate CION/EagleTree. The Company's maximum exposure to losses from CION/EagleTree is limited to its investment in CION/EagleTree.
The following table sets forth the individual investments in CION/EagleTree's portfolio as of December 31, 2023:
| Portfolio Company · Interest(a) · Maturity · Industry · Principal/Par Amount/Units · Cost(b) · FairValue | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Secured First Lien Debt | ||||||||
| Berlitz Holdings, Inc.(f) | S+900, 1.00% SOFR Floor | 2/14/2025 | Services: Business | $1,200 | $1,157 | $1,194 | ||
| Community Tree Service, LLC(g) | S+850, 1.00% SOFR Floor | 6/17/2027 | Construction & Building | 463 | 463 | 464 | ||
| Total Senior Secured First Lien Debt | 1,620 | 1,658 | ||||||
| Senior Secured Second Lien Debt | ||||||||
| Access CIG, LLC(g) | S+775, 0.00% SOFR Floor | 2/27/2026 | Services: Business | 7,250 | 7,229 | 7,244 | ||
| MedPlast Holdings, Inc.(e) | L+775, 0.00% LIBOR Floor | 7/2/2026 | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 6,750 | 6,276 | 6,535 | ||
| Total Senior Secured Second Lien Debt | 13,505 | 13,779 | ||||||
| Collateralized Securities and Structured Products - Equity | ||||||||
| Ivy Hill Middle Market Credit Fund VIII, Ltd. Subordinated Loan(c) | 11.84% Estimated Yield | 2/2/2026 | Diversified Financials | 10,000 | 9,717 | 9,117 | ||
| Total Collateralized Securities and Structured Products - Equity | 9,717 | 9,117 | ||||||
| Equity | ||||||||
| American Clinical Solutions LLC, Class A Membership Interests(d) | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 6,030,384 Units | 5,200 | 5,065 | ||||
| Anthem Sports and Entertainment Inc., Class A Preferred Stock Warrants(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 1,469 Units | 486 | 1,622 | ||||
| Anthem Sports and Entertainment Inc., Class B Preferred Stock Warrants(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 255 Units | — | 31 | ||||
| Anthem Sports and Entertainment Inc., Common Stock Warrants(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 4,746 Units | — | — | ||||
| BCP Great Lakes II - Series A Holdings LP, Partnership Interests (4.2% ownership) | Diversified Financials | N/A | 12,144 | 12,464 | ||||
| Carestream Health Holdings, Inc., Common Stock(d) | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 614,367 Units | 21,759 | 21,386 | ||||
| CHC Medical Partners, Inc., Series C Preferred Stock, 12% Dividend | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 2,727,273 Units | 8,218 | 10,391 | ||||
| CTS Ultimate Holdings LLC, Class A Preferred Units(d) | Construction & Building | 3,578,701 Units | 1,000 | 895 | ||||
| Dayton HoldCo, LLC, Membership Units(d) | Construction & Building | 37,264 Units | 8,400 | 14,537 | ||||
| HDNet Holdco LLC, Preferred Unit Call Option(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 1 Unit | — | 382 | ||||
| Language Education Holdings GP LLC, Common Units(d) | Services: Business | 133,333 Units | — | — | ||||
| Language Education Holdings LP, Ordinary Common Units(d) | Services: Business | 133,333 Units | 300 | 503 | ||||
| Skillsoft Corp., Class A Common Stock(d) | High Tech Industries | 12,171 Units | 2,000 | 214 | ||||
| Spinal USA, Inc. / Precision Medical Inc., Warrants(d) | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 20,667,324 Units | — | — | ||||
| Total Equity | 59,507 | 67,490 | ||||||
| Short Term Investments(h) | ||||||||
| First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class Z Shares | 5.24%(i) | 1,306 | 1,306 | |||||
| Total Short Term Investments | 1,306 | 1,306 | ||||||
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS | $85,655 | $93,350 | ||||||
a. The actual SOFR rate for each loan listed may not be the applicable SOFR rate as of December 31, 2023, as the loan may have been priced or repriced based on a SOFR rate prior to or subsequent to December 31, 2023. The actual LIBOR rate for each loan listed may not be the applicable LIBOR rate as of December 31, 2023, as the loan may have been priced or repriced based on a LIBOR rate prior to or subsequent to December 31, 2023.
b. Represents amortized cost for debt securities and cost for equity investments.
c. The CLO subordinated notes are considered equity positions in the CLO vehicles and are not rated. Equity investments are entitled to recurring distributions, which are generally equal to the remaining cash flow of the payments made by the underlying vehicle's securities less contractual payments to debt holders and expenses. The estimated yield indicated is based upon a current projection of the amount and timing of these recurring distributions and the estimated amount of repayment of principal upon termination. Such projections are periodically reviewed and adjusted, and the estimated yield may not ultimately be realized.
d. Non-income producing security.
e. The interest rate on these loans is subject to 1 month LIBOR, which as of December 31, 2023 was 5.47%.
f. The interest rate on these loans is subject to 1 month SOFR, which as of December 31, 2023 was 5.35%.
g. The interest rate on these loans is subject to 3 month SOFR, which as of December 31, 2023 was 5.33%.
h. Short term investments represent an investment in a fund that invests in highly liquid investments with average original maturity dates of three months or less.
i.7-day effective yield as of December 31, 2023.
The following table sets forth the individual investments in CION/EagleTree's portfolio as of December 31, 2022:
| Portfolio Company · Interest(a) · Maturity · Industry · Principal/Par Amount/Units · Cost(b) · FairValue | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Secured First Lien Debt | ||||||||
| Berlitz Holdings, Inc.(g) | S+900, 1.00% SOFR Floor | 2/14/2025 | Services: Business | $1,200 | $1,125 | $1,146 | ||
| Community Tree Service, LLC(h) | S+850, 1.00% SOFR Floor | 6/17/2027 | Construction & Building | 499 | 499 | 489 | ||
| Future Pak, LLC(e) | L+800, 2.00% LIBOR Floor | 7/2/2024 | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 1,395 | 1,382 | 1,372 | ||
| Total Senior Secured First Lien Debt | 3,006 | 3,007 | ||||||
| Senior Secured Second Lien Debt | ||||||||
| Access CIG, LLC(f) | L+775, 0.00% LIBOR Floor | 2/27/2026 | Services: Business | 7,250 | 7,220 | 6,933 | ||
| Dayton Superior Corp.(e) | L+700, 2.00% LIBOR Floor | 12/4/2024 | Construction & Building | 1,010 | 1,010 | 1,007 | ||
| MedPlast Holdings, Inc.(e) | L+775, 0.00% LIBOR Floor | 7/2/2026 | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 6,750 | 6,135 | 6,337 | ||
| Zest Acquisition Corp.(e) | L+700, 1.00% LIBOR Floor | 3/14/2026 | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 15,000 | 14,820 | 14,175 | ||
| Total Senior Secured Second Lien Debt | 29,185 | 28,452 | ||||||
| Collateralized Securities and Structured Products - Equity | ||||||||
| Ivy Hill Middle Market Credit Fund VIII, Ltd. Subordinated Loan(c) | 11.84% Estimated Yield | 2/2/2026 | Diversified Financials | 10,000 | 9,874 | 9,523 | ||
| Total Collateralized Securities and Structured Products - Equity | 9,874 | 9,523 | ||||||
| Equity | ||||||||
| American Clinical Solutions LLC, Class A Membership Interests(d) | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 6,030,384 Units | 5,200 | 3,618 | ||||
| Anthem Sports and Entertainment Inc., Class A Preferred Stock Warrants(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 1,469 Units | 486 | 1,881 | ||||
| Anthem Sports and Entertainment Inc., Class B Preferred Stock Warrants(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 255 Units | — | 187 | ||||
| Anthem Sports and Entertainment Inc., Common Stock Warrants(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 4,746 Units | — | 580 | ||||
| BCP Great Lakes II - Series A Holdings LP, Partnership Interests (4.2% ownership) | Diversified Financials | N/A | 11,436 | 11,058 | ||||
| Carestream Health Holdings, Inc., Common Stock(d) | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 613,262 Units | 21,759 | 21,544 | ||||
| CHC Medical Partners, Inc., Series C Preferred Stock, 12% Dividend | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 2,727,273 Units | 7,891 | 8,877 | ||||
| CTS Ultimate Holdings LLC, Class A Preferred Units(d) | Construction & Building | 3,578,701 Units | 1,000 | 859 | ||||
| Dayton HoldCo, LLC, Membership Units(d) | Construction & Building | 37,264 Units | 8,400 | 15,334 | ||||
| HDNet Holdco LLC, Preferred Unit Call Option(d) | Media: Diversified & Production | 1 Unit | — | 185 | ||||
| HW Ultimate Holdings, LP, Class A Membership Units, 4% Dividend | Capital Equipment | 2,000,000 Units | 2,082 | 130 | ||||
| Language Education Holdings GP LLC, Common Units(d) | Services: Business | 133,333 Units | — | — | ||||
| Language Education Holdings LP, Ordinary Common Units(d) | Services: Business | 133,333 Units | 300 | 427 | ||||
| Skillsoft Corp., Class A Common Stock(d) | High Tech Industries | 243,425 Units | 2,000 | 316 | ||||
| Spinal USA, Inc. / Precision Medical Inc., Warrants(d) | Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals | 20,667,324 Units | — | — | ||||
| Total Equity | 60,554 | 64,996 | ||||||
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS | $102,619 | $105,978 | ||||||
a. The actual LIBOR rate for each loan listed may not be the applicable LIBOR rate as of December 31, 2022, as the loan may have been priced or repriced based on a LIBOR rate prior to or subsequent to December 31, 2022. The actual SOFR rate for each loan listed may not be the applicable SOFR rate as of December 31, 2022, as the loan may have been priced or repriced based on a SOFR rate prior to or subsequent to December 31, 2022.
b. Represents amortized cost for debt securities and cost for equity investments.
c. The CLO subordinated notes are considered equity positions in the CLO vehicles and are not rated. Equity investments are entitled to recurring distributions, which are generally equal to the remaining cash flow of the payments made by the underlying vehicle's securities less contractual payments to debt holders and expenses. The estimated yield indicated is based upon a current projection of the amount and timing of these recurring distributions and the estimated amount of repayment of principal upon termination. Such projections are periodically reviewed and adjusted, and the estimated yield may not ultimately be realized.
d. Non-income producing security.
e. The interest rate on these loans is subject to 1 month LIBOR, which as of December 31, 2022 was 4.39%.
f. The interest rate on these loans is subject to 3 month LIBOR, which as of December 31, 2022 was 4.77%.
g. The interest rate on these loans is subject to 1 month SOFR, which as of December 31, 2022 was 4.36%.
h. The interest rate on these loans is subject to 3 month SOFR, which as of December 31, 2022 was 4.59%.
The following table includes selected balance sheet information for CION/EagleTree as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
| Selected Balance Sheet Information: | December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Investments, at fair value (amortized cost of $85,655 and $102,619, respectively) | $93,350 | $105,978 |
| Cash and other assets | 14 | 2,476 |
| Dividend receivable on investments | 414 | 225 |
| Interest receivable on investments | 287 | 301 |
| Total assets | $94,065 | $108,980 |
| Senior secured notes (net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $70 and $94, respectively) | $64,432 | $70,904 |
| Other liabilities | 166 | 1,881 |
| Total liabilities | 64,598 | 72,785 |
| Members' capital | 29,467 | 36,195 |
| Total liabilities and members' capital | $94,065 | $108,980 |
The following table includes selected statement of operations information for CION/EagleTree for the year ended December 31, 2023 and for the year ended December 31, 2022:
| Selected Statement of Operations Information: | Year Ended December 31, 2023 | Year Ended December 31, 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Total revenues | $6,230 | $9,653 |
| Total expenses | 10,213 | 11,120 |
| Net realized (loss) gain on investments | (2,083) | 9,947 |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 4,338 | (5,839) |
| Net (decrease) increase in net assets from operations | $(1,728) | $2,641 |
CION SOF Funding, LLC
CION SOF was organized on May 21, 2019 as a Delaware limited liability company and commenced operations on October 2, 2019 when the Company and BCP Special Opportunities Fund I, LP, or BCP, entered into the limited liability company agreement of CION SOF for purposes of establishing the manner in which the parties would invest in and co-manage CION SOF. CION SOF invested primarily in senior secured loans of U.S. middle-market companies. The Company and BCP contributed a portfolio of loans to CION SOF representing membership equity of $31,289 and $4,470, respectively, in exchange for 87.5% and 12.5% of the membership interests of CION SOF, respectively.
On October 2, 2019, CION SOF entered into a senior secured credit facility, or the SOF Credit Facility, with Morgan Stanley Bank, N.A., or MS, for borrowings of up to a maximum amount of $75,000. Advances under the SOF Credit Facility were available through October 2, 2022 and bore interest at a floating rate equal to the three-month LIBOR, plus a spread of (i)3.0% per year through October 1, 2022 and (i)3.5% per year thereafter through October 2, 2024. CION SOF's obligations to MS under the SOF Credit Facility were secured by a first priority security interest in all of the assets of CION SOF. The obligations of CION SOF under the SOF Credit Facility were non-recourse to the Company. On October 2, 2019, CION SOF drew down $64,702 of borrowings under the SOF Credit Facility.
In December 2020, the Company and BCP elected to wind-down the operations of CION SOF. On December 14, 2020, CION SOF repaid to MS all amounts outstanding under the SOF Credit Facility. On January 28, 2021, CION SOF sold all of its remaining debt and equity investments to the Company. On March 18, 2021, CION SOF declared a final distribution, which was a return of capital, and on March 19, 2021, distributed all remaining assets to the Company and BCP.
The Company and BCP were not required to make any additional capital contributions to CION SOF. The Company’s equity investment in CION SOF was not redeemable. All portfolio and other material decisions regarding CION SOF required approval of its board of managers, which was comprised offour members, two of whom were selected by the Company and the othertwo were selected by BCP. Further, all portfolio and other material decisions required the affirmative vote of at leastone board member from the Company andone board member from BCP.
The Company also served as administrative agent to CION SOF to provide loan servicing functions and other administrative services. In certain cases, these loan servicing functions and other administrative services were performed by CIM.
In accordance with ASU 2015-02, Consolidation, the Company determined that CION SOF was a VIE. However, the Company was not the primary beneficiary and therefore did not consolidate CION SOF. The Company's maximum exposure to losses from CION SOF was limited to its equity contribution to CION SOF.
The Company did not record any dividend income from its equity interest in CION SOF for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 or 2021.
Note 8. Financing Arrangements
The following table presents summary information with respect to the Company’s outstanding financing arrangements as of December 31, 2023:
| Financing Arrangement | Type of Financing Arrangement | Rate | Amount Outstanding | Amount Available | Maturity Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPM Credit Facility | Term Loan Credit Facility | SOFR+3.20% | $550,000 | $125,000 | May 15, 2025 |
| 2026 Notes(1) | Note Purchase Agreement | 4.50% | 125,000 | — | February 11, 2026 |
| UBS Facility | Repurchase Agreement | SOFR+3.20% | 122,500 | 27,500 | November 19, 2024 |
| Series A Notes(2) | Israel Public Bond Offering | SOFR+3.82% | 114,844 | — | August 31, 2026 |
| 2027 Notes | Note Purchase Agreement | SOFR+4.75% | 100,000 | — | November 8, 2027 |
| 2022 More Term Loan | Term Loan Facility Agreement | SOFR+3.50% | 50,000 | — | April 27, 2027 |
| 2021 More Term Loan(3) | Term Loan Facility Agreement | 5.20% | 30,000 | — | September 30, 2024 |
| $1,092,344 | $152,500 | ||||
(1)As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of the 2026 Notes was $125,000, which was based on a yield analysis and discount rate commensurate with the market yields for similar types of debt. The fair value of these debt obligations would be categorized as Level 3 under ASC 820 as of December 31, 2023.
(2)As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of the Series A Notes was $121,710, which was based on readily observable, transparent prices. The fair value of these debt obligations would be categorized as Level 1 under ASC 820 as of December 31, 2023.
(3)As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of the 2021 More Term Loan was $30,000, which was based on a yield analysis and discount rate commensurate with the market yields for similar types of debt. The fair value of these debt obligations would be categorized as Level 3 under ASC 820 as of December 31, 2023.
JPM Credit Facility
On August 26, 2016, 34th Street entered into a senior secured credit facility with JPM. The senior secured credit facility with JPM, or the JPM Credit Facility, provided for borrowings in an aggregate principal amount of $150,000, of which $25,000 could have been funded as a revolving credit facility, each subject to conditions described in the JPM Credit Facility. On August 26, 2016, 34th Street drew down $57,000 of borrowings under the JPM Credit Facility.
On September 30, 2016, July 11, 2017, November 28, 2017 and May 23, 2018, 34th Street amended and restated the JPM Credit Facility, or the Amended JPM Credit Facility, with JPM. Under the Amended JPM Credit Facility entered into on September 30, 2016, the aggregate principal amount available for borrowings was increased from $150,000 to $225,000, of which $25,000 could have been funded as a revolving credit facility, subject to conditions described in the Amended JPM Credit Facility. Under the Amended JPM Credit Facility entered into on July 11, 2017 and November 28, 2017, certain immaterial administrative amendments were made as a result of the termination of AIM as the Company's investment sub-adviser as discussed in Note 1. Under the Amended JPM Credit Facility entered into on May 23, 2018, (i) the aggregate principal amount available for borrowings was increased from $225,000 to $275,000, of which $25,000 could have been funded as a revolving credit facility, subject to conditions described in the Amended JPM Credit Facility, (ii) the reinvestment period was extended until August 24, 2020 and (iii) the maturity date was extended to August 24, 2021.
On May 15, 2020, 34th Street amended and restated the Amended JPM Credit Facility, or the Second Amended JPM Credit Facility, with JPM in order to fully repay all amounts outstanding under the Company's prior Citibank Credit Facility and MS Credit Facility and repay $100,000 of advances outstanding under the UBS Facility (as described below). Under the Second Amended JPM Credit Facility, the aggregate principal amount available for borrowings was increased from $275,000 to $700,000, of which $75,000 may be funded as a revolving credit facility, subject to conditions described in the Second Amended JPM Credit Facility, during the reinvestment period. Under the Second Amended JPM Credit Facility, the reinvestment period was extended until May 15, 2022 and the maturity date was extended to May 15, 2023. Advances under the Second Amended JPM Credit Facility bore interest at a floating rate equal to the three-month LIBOR, plus a spread of 3.25% per year.
On February 26, 2021, 34th Street amended and restated the Second Amended JPM Credit Facility, or the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility, with JPM. Under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility, the aggregate principal amount available for borrowings was reduced from $700,000 to $575,000, subject to conditions described in the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility. In addition, under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility, the reinvestment period was extended from May 15, 2022 to May 15, 2023 and the maturity date was extended from May 15, 2023 to May 15, 2024. Advances under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility bore interest at a floating rate equal to the three-month LIBOR, plus a spread of 3.10% per year. 34th Street incurred certain customary costs and expenses in connection with the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility. No other material terms of the Second JPM Credit Facility were revised in connection with the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility.
On March 28, 2022, 34th Street entered into a First Amendment to the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility with JPM, or the JPM First Amendment. Under the JPM First Amendment, the aggregate principal amount available for borrowings was increased from $575,000 to $675,000, subject to conditions described in the JPM First Amendment. Additional advances of up to $100,000 under the JPM First Amendment bore interest at a floating rate equal to the three-month SOFR, plus a credit spread of 3.10% per year, and a LIBOR to SOFR credit spread adjustment of 0.15%. 34 th Street incurred certain customary costs and expenses in connection with the JPM First Amendment. No other material terms of the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility were revised in connection with the JPM First Amendment.
On May 15, 2023, 34th Street entered into a Second Amendment to the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility with JPM, or the JPM Second Amendment. Under the JPM Second Amendment, the aggregate principal amount available for borrowings remained unchanged of up to $675,000 but all such advances bear interest at a floating rate equal to the three-month SOFR, plus a credit spread of 3.05% per year, and a LIBOR to SOFR credit spread adjustment of 0.15%. The reinvestment period was extended from May 15, 2023 to May 15, 2024 and the maturity date was extended from May 15, 2024 to May 15, 2025. Also under the JPM Second Amendment, the amount of minimum borrowings required was reduced by $50,000 to $550,000 with a six-month non-call provision. 34th Street incurred certain customary costs and expenses in connection with the JPM Second Amendment. No other material terms of the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility were revised in connection with the JPM Second Amendment.
Interest is payable quarterly in arrears. 34th Street may prepay advances pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment, subject to a 1.0% premium in certain circumstances. In addition, 34th Street will be subject to a non-usage fee of 1.0% per year on the amount, if any, of the aggregate principal amount available under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment that has not been borrowed through May 14, 2024. The non-usage fees, if any, are payable quarterly in arrears.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the aggregate principal amount outstanding on the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility was $550,000 and $610,000, respectively. The carrying amount outstanding under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment approximates its fair value.
The Company contributed loans and other corporate debt securities to 34th Street in exchange for 100% of the membership interests of 34th Street, and may contribute additional loans and other corporate debt securities to 34th Street in the future. 34th Street’s obligations to JPM under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment are secured by a first priority security interest in all of the assets of 34th Street. The obligations of 34th Street under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment are non-recourse to the Company, and the Company’s exposure under the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment is limited to the value of the Company’s investment in 34th Street.
In connection with the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment, 34th Street made certain representations and warranties and is required to comply with a borrowing base requirement, various covenants, reporting requirements and other customary requirements for similar facilities. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, 34th Street was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
Through December 31, 2023, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $13,790 in connection with obtaining and amending the JPM Credit Facility, which were recorded as a direct reduction to the outstanding balance of the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment, which is included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023 and will amortize to interest expense over the term of the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and the JPM Second Amendment. At December 31, 2023, the unamortized portion of the debt issuance costs was $2,725.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the components of interest expense, average borrowings, and weighted average interest rate for the JPM Second Amendment and the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility were as follows:
| Years Ended December 31, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| Stated interest expense | $50,223 | $29,254 |
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 2,097 | 2,214 |
| Non-usage fee | 808 | 617 |
| Total interest expense | $53,128 | $32,085 |
| Weighted average interest rate(1) | 8.45% | 4.99% |
| Average borrowings | $595,342 | $590,603 |
(1)Includes the stated interest expense and non-usage fee on the unused portion of the JPM Second Amendment and the Third Amended JPM Credit Facility and is annualized for periods covering less than one year.
2026 Notes
On February 11, 2021, the Company entered into a Note Purchase Agreement with certain purchasers, or the Note Purchase Agreement, in connection with the Company’s issuance of $125,000 aggregate principal amount of its 4.50% senior unsecured notes due in 2026, or the 2026 Notes. The net proceeds to the Company were approximately $122,300, after the deduction of placement agent fees and other financing expenses, which the Company used to repay debt under its secured financing arrangements.
The 2026 Notes mature on February 11, 2026. The 2026 Notes bear interest at a rate of 4.50% per year payable semi-annually on February 11th and August 11th of each year, which commenced on August 11, 2021. The Company has the right to, at its option, redeem all or a part that is not less than 10% of the 2026 Notes (i) after February 11, 2024 but on or before February 11, 2025, at a redemption price equal to 102% of the principal amount of the 2026 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, (ii) after February 11, 2025 but on or before August 11, 2025, at a redemption price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the 2026 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, and (iii) after August 11, 2025, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2026 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.
The 2026 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank pari passu with all existing and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company, rank effectively junior to any of the Company’s secured indebtedness (including unsecured indebtedness that the Company later secures) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness, and rank structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries, financing vehicles or similar facilities.
The Note Purchase Agreement contains other terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as (i) information reporting, (ii) maintenance of the Company’s status as a BDC, (iii) minimum shareholders’ equity of $543.6 million, (iv) a minimum asset coverage ratio of not less than 150%, (v) a minimum interest coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00 and (vi) an unencumbered asset coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00, provided that (a) first lien senior secured loans and cash represent more than 65% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio and (b) equity interests or structured products in the aggregate represent less than 15% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
The Note Purchase Agreement also contains a “most favored lender” provision in favor of the purchasers in respect of any new unsecured credit facilities, loans or indebtedness in excess of $25,000 incurred by the Company, which indebtedness contains a financial covenant not contained in, or more restrictive against the Company than those contained, in the Note Purchase Agreement. In addition, the Note Purchase Agreement contains customary events of default with customary cure and notice periods, including, without limitation, nonpayment, incorrect representation in any material respect, breach of covenant, cross-default under other indebtedness or derivative securities of the Company in an outstanding aggregate principal amount of at least $25,000, certain judgments and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy.
As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate principal amount of 2026 Notes outstanding was $125,000.
Through December 31, 2023, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $2,669 in connection with issuing the 2026 Notes, which were recorded as a direct reduction to the outstanding balance of the 2026 Notes, which is included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023 and will amortize to interest expense over the term of the 2026 Notes. At December 31, 2023, the unamortized portion of the debt issuance costs was $1,129.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the components of interest expense, average borrowings, and weighted average interest rate for the 2026 Notes were as follows:
| Years Ended December 31, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| Stated interest expense | $5,625 | $5,600 |
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 533 | 533 |
| Total interest expense | $6,158 | $6,133 |
| Weighted average interest rate(1) | 4.50% | 4.50% |
| Average borrowings | $125,000 | $125,000 |
(1)Includes the stated interest expense on the 2026 Notes and is annualized for periods covering less than one year.
UBS Facility
On May 19, 2017, the Company, throughtwo newly-formed, wholly-owned, special-purpose financing subsidiaries, entered into a financing arrangement with UBS pursuant to which up to $125,000 was made available to the Company.
Pursuant to the financing arrangement, assets in the Company's portfolio may be contributed from time to time to Murray Hill Funding II through Murray Hill Funding, LLC, or Murray Hill Funding, each a newly-formed, wholly-owned, special-purpose financing subsidiary of the Company. On May 19, 2017, the Company contributed assets to Murray Hill Funding II. The assets held by Murray Hill Funding II secure the obligations of Murray Hill Funding II under Class A-1 Notes, or the Notes, issued by Murray Hill Funding II. Pursuant to an Indenture, dated May 19, 2017, between Murray Hill Funding II and U.S. Bank National Association, or U.S. Bank, as trustee, or the Indenture, the aggregate principal amount of Notes that may be issued by Murray Hill Funding II from time to time was $192,308. Murray Hill Funding purchased the Notes issued by Murray Hill Funding II at a purchase price equal to their par value. Murray Hill Funding makes capital contributions to Murray Hill Funding II to, among other things, maintain the value of the portfolio of assets held by Murray Hill Funding II.
Principal on the Notes will be due and payable on the stated maturity date of May 19, 2027. Pursuant to the Indenture, Murray Hill Funding II made certain representations and warranties and is required to comply with various covenants, reporting requirements and other customary requirements for similar transactions. The Indenture contains events of default customary for similar transactions, including, without limitation: (a) the failure to make principal payments on the Notes at their stated maturity or any earlier redemption date or to make interest payments on the Notes and such failure is not cured within three business days; (b) the failure to disburse amounts in accordance with the priority of payments and such failure is not cured within three business days; and (c) the occurrence of certain bankruptcy and insolvency events with respect to Murray Hill Funding II or Murray Hill Funding. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, Murray Hill Funding II was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
Murray Hill Funding, in turn, entered into a repurchase transaction with UBS, pursuant to the terms of a Global Master Repurchase Agreement and the related Annex and Master Confirmation thereto, each dated May 19, 2017, or collectively, the UBS Facility. Pursuant to the UBS Facility, on May 19, 2017 and June 19, 2017, UBS purchased Notes held by Murray Hill Funding for an aggregate purchase price equal to 65% of the principal amount of Notes purchased. Subject to certain conditions, the maximum principal amount of Notes that may be purchased under the UBS Facility was $192,308. Accordingly, the aggregate maximum amount payable to Murray Hill Funding under the UBS Facility would not exceed $125,000. Murray Hill Funding was required to repurchase the Notes sold to UBS under the UBS Facility by no later than May 19, 2020. The repurchase price paid by Murray Hill Funding to UBS will be equal to the purchase price paid by UBS for the repurchased Notes (giving effect to any reductions resulting from voluntary partial prepayment(s)). The financing fee under the UBS Facility was equal to the three-month LIBOR plus a spread of up to 3.50% per year for the relevant period.
On December 1, 2017, Murray Hill Funding II amended and restated the Indenture, or the Amended Indenture, pursuant to which the aggregate principal amount of Notes that may be issued by Murray Hill Funding II was increased from $192,308 to $266,667. On December 1, 2017, Murray Hill Funding entered into a First Amended and Restated Master Confirmation to the Global Master Repurchase Agreement, or the Amended Master Confirmation, which sets forth the terms of the repurchase transaction between Murray Hill Funding and UBS under the UBS Facility. As part of the Amended Master Confirmation, on December 15, 2017 and April 2, 2018, UBS purchased the increased aggregate principal amount of Notes held by Murray Hill Funding for an aggregate purchase price equal to 75% of the principal amount of Notes issued. As a result of the Amended Master Confirmation, the aggregate maximum amount payable to Murray Hill Funding and made available to the Company under the UBS Facility was increased from $125,000 to $200,000. No other material terms of the UBS Facility were revised in connection with the amended UBS Facility, or the Amended UBS Facility.
On May 19, 2020, Murray Hill Funding entered into a Second Amended and Restated Master Confirmation to the Global Master Repurchase Agreement, or the Second Amended Master Confirmation, which extended the date that Murray Hill Funding will be required to repurchase the Notes sold to UBS under the Amended UBS Facility from May 19, 2020 to November 19, 2020, and increased the spread on the financing fee from 3.50% to 3.90% per year.
On May 19, 2020, Murray Hill Funding also repurchased Notes in the aggregate principal amount of $133,333 from UBS for an aggregate repurchase price of $100,000, which was then repaid by Murray Hill Funding II. The repurchase of the Notes on May 19, 2020 resulted in a repayment of one-half of the outstanding amount of borrowings under the Amended UBS Facility as of May 19, 2020. As of December 31, 2020, Notes remained outstanding in the aggregate principal amount of $133,333, which was purchased by Murray Hill Funding from Murray Hill Funding II and subsequently sold to UBS under the Amended UBS Facility for aggregate proceeds of $100,000.
On November 12, 2020, Murray Hill Funding entered into a Third Amended and Restated Master Confirmation to the Global Master Repurchase Agreement, or the Third Amended Master Confirmation, to further extend the date that Murray Hill Funding will be required to repurchase the Notes to December 18, 2020.
On December 17, 2020, Murray Hill Funding entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Master Confirmation to the Global Master Repurchase Agreement, or the Fourth Amended Master Confirmation, which further extended the date that Murray Hill Funding will be required to repurchase the Notes sold to UBS under the Amended UBS Facility from December 18, 2020 to November 19, 2023, and decreased the spread on the financing fee from 3.90% to 3.375% per year. No other material terms of the Amended UBS Facility were revised in connection with the Fourth Amended Master Confirmation.
On December 17, 2020, Murray Hill Funding also entered into a Revolving Credit Note Agreement, or the Revolving Note Agreement, with Murray Hill Funding II, UBS and U.S. Bank, as note agent and trustee, which provides for a revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $50,000, subject to compliance with a borrowing base. Murray Hill Funding II will issue Class A-R Notes, or the Class A-R Notes, in exchange for advances under the Revolving Note Agreement. Principal on the Class A-R Notes will be due and payable on the stated maturity date of May 19, 2027, which is the same stated maturity date as the Notes.
The Class A-R Notes will be issued pursuant to a Second Amended and Restated Indenture, dated December 17, 2020, between Murray Hill Funding II and U.S. Bank, as trustee, or the Second Amended Indenture. Under the Second Amended Indenture, the aggregate principal amount of Notes and Class A-R Notes that may be issued by Murray Hill Funding II from time to time is $150,000. Murray Hill Funding, in turn, entered into a repurchase transaction with UBS pursuant to the terms of the related Annex and Master Confirmation, dated December 17, 2020, to the Global Master Repurchase Agreement, dated May 19, 2017, related to the Class A-R Notes. Murray Hill Funding was required to repurchase the Class A-R Notes that will be sold to UBS by no later than November 19, 2023. The financing fee for the funded Class A-R Notes was equal to the three-month LIBOR plus a spread of 3.375% per year while the financing fee for the unfunded Class A-R Notes is equal to 0.75% per year.
On June 14, 2023, Murray Hill Funding entered into with UBS (i) a Fifth Amended and Restated Master Confirmation (Class A-1 Notes) to the Global Master Repurchase Agreement, or the Fifth Amended Master Confirmation, and (ii) an Amended and Restated Master Confirmation (Class A-R Notes) to the Global Master Repurchase Agreement, or the Amended Master Confirmation. Under both Confirmations, the date that Murray Hill Funding will be required to repurchase the Notes and the Class A-R Notes previously sold to UBS under the Amended UBS Facility was extended from November 19, 2023 to November 19, 2024. Also under both Confirmations, the financing fee payable to UBS was revised from a floating rate equal to the three-month LIBOR, plus a spread of 3.375% per year, to a floating rate equal to the three-month SOFR, plus a spread of (a) to (but excluding) November 19, 2023,3.525% per year, and (b) thereafter,3.20% per year. The effective date of both Confirmations was June 15, 2023. No other material terms of the Amended UBS Facility were revised in connection with the Fifth Amended Master Confirmation or the Amended Master Confirmation.
On July 1, 2021, December 14, 2021, April 19, 2022 and August 16, 2023, UBS purchased Class A-R Notes held by Murray Hill Funding for an aggregate purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of Class A-R Notes purchased, which was $21,000, $25,000, $17,500 and $22,500, respectively. On August 20, 2021, March 7, 2023 and April 14, 2023, Murray Hill Funding repurchased Class A-R Notes from UBS in the aggregate principal amount of $21,000, $17,500 and $25,000, respectively, for an aggregate repurchase price of $21,000, $17,500 and $25,000, respectively, which was then repaid by Murray Hill Funding II. The repurchase of the Class A-R Notes on August 20, 2021, March 7, 2023 and April 14, 2023 resulted in repayments of $21,000, $17,500 and $25,000, respectively, of the outstanding amount of borrowings under the Amended UBS Facility.
UBS may require Murray Hill Funding to post cash collateral if, without limitation, the sum of the market value of the portfolio of assets and the cash and eligible investments held by Murray Hill Funding II, together with any posted cash collateral, is less than the required margin amount under the Amended UBS Facility; provided, however, that Murray Hill Funding will not be required to post cash collateral with UBS until such market value has declined at least 10% from the initial market value of the portfolio assets.
The Company has no contractual obligation to post any such cash collateral or to make any payments to UBS on behalf of Murray Hill Funding. The Company may, but is not obligated to, increase its investment in Murray Hill Funding for the purpose of funding any cash collateral or payment obligations for which Murray Hill Funding becomes obligated in connection with the Amended UBS Facility. The Company’s exposure under the Amended UBS Facility is limited to the value of the Company’s investment in Murray Hill Funding.
Pursuant to the Amended UBS Facility, Murray Hill Funding made certain representations and warranties and is required to comply with a borrowing base requirement, various covenants, reporting requirements and other customary requirements for similar transactions. The Amended UBS Facility contains events of default customary for similar financing transactions, including, without limitation: (a) failure to transfer the Notes to UBS on the applicable purchase date or repurchase the Notes from UBS on the applicable repurchase date; (b) failure to pay certain fees and make-whole amounts when due; (c) failure to post cash collateral as required; (d) the occurrence of insolvency events with respect to Murray Hill Funding; and (e) the admission by Murray Hill Funding of its inability to, or its intention not to, perform any of its obligations under the Amended UBS Facility. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, Murray Hill Funding was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
Murray Hill Funding paid an upfront fee and incurred certain other customary costs and expenses totaling $2,637 in connection with obtaining the Amended UBS Facility, which were recorded as a direct reduction to the outstanding balance of the Amended UBS Facility, which is included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and amortized to interest expense over the term of the Amended UBS Facility. At December 31, 2023, all upfront fees and other expenses were fully amortized.
As of December 31, 2023, Notes in the aggregate principal amount of $122,500 had been purchased by Murray Hill Funding from Murray Hill Funding II and subsequently sold to UBS under the Amended UBS Facility for aggregate proceeds of $122,500. The carrying amount outstanding under the Amended UBS Facility approximates its fair value. The Company funded each purchase of Notes by Murray Hill Funding through a capital contribution to Murray Hill Funding. As of December 31, 2023, the amount due at maturity under the Amended UBS Facility was $122,500. The Notes issued by Murray Hill Funding II and purchased by Murray Hill Funding eliminate in consolidation on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of assets held by Murray Hill Funding II was $252,001.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the components of interest expense, average borrowings, and weighted average interest rate for the Amended UBS Facility were as follows:
| Years Ended December 31, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| Stated interest expense | $10,297 | $7,273 |
| Non-usage fee | 239 | 96 |
| Total interest expense | $10,536 | $7,369 |
| Weighted average interest rate(1) | 8.76% | 5.29% |
| Average borrowings | $118,610 | $137,322 |
(1)Includes the stated interest expense and non-usage fee on the unused portion of the Amended UBS Facility and is annualized for periods covering less than one year.
Series A Notes
On February 28, 2023, the Company entered into a Deed of Trust, or the Deed of Trust, with Mishmeret Trust Company Ltd., as trustee, under which the Company issued $80,712 in aggregate principal amount of its Series A Unsecured Notes due 2026, or the Series A Notes. The Series A Notes offering in Israel closed on February 28, 2023 and the Series A Notes listed and commenced trading on the TASE on February 28, 2023. After the deduction of fees and other offering expenses, the Company received net proceeds of approximately $77,900, which it used to make investments in portfolio companies in accordance with its investment objectives and for working capital and general corporate purposes. The Series A Notes are rated A1.il by Midroog Ltd., an affiliate of Moody’s. The carrying amount outstanding under the Series A Notes approximates its fair value.
The Series A Notes will mature on August 31, 2026 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at the Company's option at par plus a “make-whole” premium, if applicable, as set forth in the Deed of Trust. The Series A Notes bear interest at a rate equal to SOFR plus a credit spread of 3.82% per year, which will be paid quarterly on February 28, May 31, August 31, and November 30 of each year, which commenced on May 31, 2023. The Series A Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank senior in right of payment to all of the Company’s existing and future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Series A Notes, rank pari passu with all existing and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company, rank effectively junior to any of the Company's secured indebtedness (including unsecured indebtedness that the Company later secures) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness, and rank structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by the Company's subsidiaries, financing vehicles or similar facilities.
The Deed of Trust contains other terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as (i) information reporting, (ii) maintenance of the Company’s status as a BDC within the meaning of the 1940 Act, (iii) minimum shareholders’ equity of $525 million, (iv) a minimum asset coverage ratio of not less than 150%, and (v) an unencumbered asset coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00. In addition, the Deed of Trust contains customary events of default with customary cure and notice periods, including, without limitation, nonpayment, incorrect representation in any material respect, breach of covenant, cross-default under the Company’s other indebtedness in an outstanding aggregate principal amount of at least $50,000, certain judgments and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
On February 26, 2023, the Company’s shares of common stock also listed and commenced trading on the TASE under the ticker symbol “CION”.
On October 10, 2023, the Company issued $34,132 in aggregate principal amount of its additional Series A Unsecured Notes due 2026, or the Additional Series A Notes, to institutional investors in Israel. The Additional Series A Notes were issued pursuant to the Deed of Trust and were issued by way of expanding, and have the same terms and conditions as, the existing Series A Notes that were issued by the Company on February 28, 2023. After the deduction of fees and other offering expenses, the Company received net proceeds of $32,317, which the Company used to make investments in portfolio companies in accordance with its investment objectives and for working capital and general corporate purposes. The Additional Series A Notes are rated A1.il by Midroog Ltd., an affiliate of Moody’s, and commenced trading on the TASE on October 10, 2023.
Through December 31, 2023, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $5,139 in connection with issuing the Series A Notes and the Additional Series A Notes, which were recorded as a direct reduction to the outstanding balance of the Series A Notes and the Additional Series A Notes, which is included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023 and will amortize to interest expense over the term of the Series A Notes and the Additional Series A Notes. At December 31, 2023, the unamortized portion of the debt issuance costs was $4,253.
For the period from February 28, 2023 through December 31, 2023, the components of interest expense, average borrowings, and weighted average interest rate for the Series A Notes were as follows:
| Stated interest expense | $6,886 |
|---|---|
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 887 |
| Total interest expense | $7,773 |
| Weighted average interest rate(1) | 8.98% |
| Average borrowings | $89,940 |
(1) Includes the stated interest expense on the Series A Notes and the Additional Series A Notes and is annualized for periods covering less than one year.
2027 Notes
On November 8, 2023, the Company entered into a Note Purchase Agreement with certain institutional investors, or the 2027 Note Purchase Agreement, in connection with the Company’s issuance of $100,000 aggregate principal amount of its senior unsecured notes due 2027, or the 2027 Notes, at a purchase price equal to 99.25% of the principal amount of the 2027 Notes. The net proceeds to the Company were $98,290, after the deduction of placement agent fees and other financing expenses, which the Company intends to use to primarily repay debt under its senior secured financing arrangements, make investments in portfolio companies in accordance with its investment objectives, and for working capital and general corporate purposes. The 2027 Notes are rated BBB (low) by DBRS, Inc.
The 2027 Notes mature on November 8, 2027. The 2027 Notes bear interest at a floating rate equal to the three-month SOFR plus a credit spread of 4.75% per year and subject to a 2.00% SOFR floor, which will be paid quarterly on February 15, May 15, August 15, and November 15 of each year, commencing on February 15, 2024. The Company has the right to, at its option, redeem all or a part that is not less than 10% of the 2027 Notes (i) on or before August 8, 2027, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of 2027 Notes to be redeemed plus an applicable “make-whole” amount equal to (x) the discounted value of the remaining scheduled payments with respect to the principal of such 2027 Note that is to be prepaid or becomes due and payable pursuant to the 2027 Note Purchase Agreement over (y) the amount of such called principal, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, and (ii) after August 8, 2027, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2027 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. For any redemptions occurring on or before August 8, 2027, the discounted value portion of the “make whole amount” is calculated by applying a discount rate on the same periodic basis as that on which interest on the 2027 Notes is payable equal to the sum of 0.50% plus the yield to maturity of the most recently issued U.S. Treasury securities having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the 2027 Notes, or if there are no such U.S. Treasury securities, using such implied yield to maturity determined in accordance with the terms of the 2027 Note Purchase Agreement.
The 2027 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank pari passu with all existing and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company, rank effectively junior to any of the Company’s secured indebtedness (including unsecured indebtedness that the Company later secures) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness, and rank structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries, financing vehicles or similar facilities.
The 2027 Note Purchase Agreement contains other terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as (i) information reporting, (ii) maintenance of the Company’s status as a business development company within the meaning of the 1940 Act, (iii) minimum shareholders’ equity of $543.6 million, (iv) a minimum asset coverage ratio of not less than 150%, (v) a minimum interest coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00 and (vi) an unencumbered asset coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00, provided that (a) first lien senior secured loans and cash represent more than 65% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio and (b) equity interests or structured products in the aggregate represent less than 15% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio. The 2027 Note Purchase Agreement also contains a “most favored lender” provision in favor of the purchasers in respect of any new credit facilities, loans, notes or unsecured indebtedness in excess of $25 million incurred by the Company, which indebtedness contains a financial covenant not contained in, or more restrictive against the Company than those contained, in the 2027 Note Purchase Agreement. In addition, the 2027 Note Purchase Agreement contains customary events of default with customary cure and notice periods, including, without limitation, nonpayment, incorrect representation in any material respect, breach of covenant, cross-default under other indebtedness or derivative securities of the Company in an outstanding aggregate principal amount of at least $25 million, certain judgments and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy. As of December 31, 2023 and for the period from November 8, 2023 through December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
Through December 31, 2023, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $1,710 in connection with issuing the 2027 Notes, which were recorded as a direct reduction to the outstanding balance of the 2027 Notes, which is included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023 and will amortize to interest expense over the term of the 2027 Notes. At December 31, 2023, the unamortized portion of the debt issuance costs was $1,647.
For the period from November 8, 2023 through December 31, 2023, the components of interest expense, average borrowings, and weighted average interest rate for the 2027 Notes were as follows:
| Stated interest expense | $1,495 |
|---|---|
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 63 |
| Total interest expense | $1,558 |
| Weighted average interest rate(1) | 9.97% |
| Average borrowings | $100,000 |
(1) Includes the stated interest expense on the 2027 Notes and is annualized for periods covering less than one year.
2022 More Term Loan
On April 27, 2022, the Company entered into an Unsecured Term Loan Facility Agreement, or the More Term Loan Agreement, with More Provident Funds and Pension Ltd., or More Provident, as lender, which provided for an unsecured term loan to the Company in an aggregate principal amount of $50,000, or the 2022 More Term Loan. On April 27, 2022, the Company drew down $50,000 of borrowings under the 2022 More Term Loan. After the deduction of fees and other financing expenses, the Company received net borrowings of approximately $49,000, which it used for working capital and other general corporate purposes. The carrying amount outstanding under the 2022 More Term Loan approximates its fair value.
Advances under the 2022 More Term Loan bear interest at a floating rate equal to the three-month SOFR, plus a credit spread of 3.50% per year and subject to a 1.0% SOFR floor, payable quarterly in arrears. Advances under the 2022 More Term Loan mature on April 27, 2027. The Company has the right to, at its option, prepay all or any portion of advances then outstanding together with a prepayment fee equal to the higher of (i) zero, or (ii) the discounted present value of all remaining interest payments that would have been paid by the Company through the maturity date with respect to the principal amount of such advance that is to be prepaid or becomes due and payable pursuant to the More Term Loan Agreement. The discounted present value portion of the prepayment fee is calculated by applying a discount rate on the same periodic basis as that on which interest on advances is payable equal to the three-month SOFR plus 2.00%.
Advances under the 2022 More Term Loan are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank pari passu with all existing and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company, rank effectively junior to any of the Company’s secured indebtedness (including unsecured indebtedness that the Company later secures) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness, and rank structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries, financing vehicles or similar facilities.
The More Term Loan Agreement contains other terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as (i) information reporting, (ii) maintenance of the Company’s status as a BDC within the meaning of the 1940 Act, (iii) minimum shareholders’ equity of 60% of the Company’s net asset value as of the year ended December 31, 2021 plus 50% of the net cash proceeds of the sale of certain equity interests by the Company after April 27, 2022, if any, (iv) a minimum asset coverage ratio of not less than 150%, and (v) an unencumbered asset coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00, provided that (a) first lien senior secured loans and cash represent more than 65% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio and (b) equity interests or structured products in the aggregate represent less than 15% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio. In addition, the More Term Loan Agreement contains customary events of default with customary cure and notice periods, including, without limitation, nonpayment, incorrect representation in any material respect, breach of covenant, cross-default under other indebtedness or derivative securities of the Company in an outstanding aggregate principal amount of at least $25,000, certain judgments and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
Through December 31, 2023, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $1,025 in connection with obtaining the 2022 More Term Loan, which were recorded as a direct reduction to the outstanding balance of the 2022 More Term Loan, which is included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023 and will amortize to interest expense over the term of the 2022 More Term Loan. At December 31, 2023, the unamortized portion of the debt issuance costs was $680.
For the year ended December 31, 2023 and for the period from April 27, 2022 through December 31, 2022, the components of interest expense, average borrowings, and weighted average interest rate for the 2022 More Term Loan were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, 2023 | For the Period From April 27, 2022 Through December 31, 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stated interest expense | $4,328 | $2,027 |
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 205 | 140 |
| Total interest expense | $4,533 | $2,167 |
| Weighted average interest rate(1) | 8.54% | 5.86% |
| Average borrowings | $50,000 | $50,000 |
(1) Includes the stated interest expense on the 2022 More Term Loan and is annualized for periods covering less than one year.
2021 More Term Loan
On April 14, 2021, the Company entered into an Unsecured Term Loan Facility Agreement, or the Term Loan Agreement, with More Provident Funds Ltd., or More, as lender. The Term Loan Agreement with More, or the 2021 More Term Loan, provided for an unsecured term loan to the Company in an aggregate principal amount of $30,000. On April 20, 2021, the Company drew down $30,000 of borrowings under the 2021 More Term Loan. After the deduction of fees and other financing expenses, the Company received net borrowings of approximately $29,000, which the Company used for working capital and other general corporate purposes.
Advances under the 2021 More Term Loan mature on September 30, 2024, and bear interest at a rate of 5.20% per year payable quarterly in arrears. The Company has the right to, at its option, prepay all or any portion of advances then outstanding together with a prepayment fee equal to the higher of (i) zero, or (ii) the discounted present value of all remaining interest payments that would have been paid by the Company through the maturity date with respect to the principal amount of such advance that is to be prepaid or becomes due and payable pursuant to the Term Loan Agreement. The discounted present value portion of the prepayment fee is calculated by applying a discount rate on the same periodic basis as that on which interest on advances is payable equal to the sum of 2.00% plus the yield to maturity of the most recently issued U.S. Treasury securities having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the 2021 More Term Loan, or if there are no such U.S. Treasury securities, using such implied yield to maturity determined in accordance with the terms of the Term Loan Agreement.
Advances under the 2021 More Term Loan are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank pari passu with all existing and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company, rank effectively junior to the Company's secured indebtedness (including unsecured indebtedness that the Company later secures) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness, and rank structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by certain of the Company's subsidiaries, financing vehicles or similar facilities.
The Term Loan Agreement contains other terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as (i) information reporting, (ii) maintenance of the Company's status as a BDC within the meaning of the 1940 Act, (iii) minimum shareholders’ equity of 60% of the Company’s net asset value as of the year ended December 31, 2020 plus 50% of the net cash proceeds of the sale of certain equity interests by the Company after April 14, 2021, if any, (iv) a minimum asset coverage ratio of not less than 150%, and (v) an unencumbered asset coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00, provided that (a) first lien senior secured loans and cash represent more than 65% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio and (b) equity interests or structured products in the aggregate represent less than 15% of the total value of unencumbered assets used by the Company for purposes of the ratio. In addition, the Term Loan Agreement contains customary events of default with customary cure and notice periods, including, without limitation, nonpayment, incorrect representation in any material respect, breach of covenant, cross default under other indebtedness or derivative securities of the Company in an outstanding aggregate principal amount of at least $25,000, certain judgments and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and reporting requirements.
Through December 31, 2023, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $992 in connection with obtaining the 2021 More Term Loan, which were recorded as a direct reduction to the outstanding balance of the 2021 More Term Loan, which is included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023 and will amortize to interest expense over the term of the 2021 More Term Loan. At December 31, 2023, the unamortized portion of the debt issuance costs was $209.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the components of interest expense, average borrowings, and weighted average interest rate for the 2021 More Term Loan were as follows:
| Years Ended December 31, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| Stated interest expense | $1,582 | $1,582 |
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 288 | 288 |
| Total interest expense | $1,870 | $1,870 |
| Weighted average interest rate(1) | 5.20% | 5.20% |
| Average borrowings | $30,000 | $30,000 |
(1) Includes the stated interest expense on the 2021 More Term Loan and is annualized for periods covering less than one year.
Note 9. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following table presents fair value measurements of the Company’s portfolio investments as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, according to the fair value hierarchy:
| December 31, 2023(1) | December 31, 2022(2) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
| Senior secured first lien debt | $— | $— | $1,565,171 | $1,565,171 | $— | $— | $1,579,512 | $1,579,512 |
| Senior secured second lien debt | — | — | 29,111 | 29,111 | — | — | 38,769 | 38,769 |
| Collateralized securities and structured products - equity | — | — | 1,096 | 1,096 | — | — | 1,179 | 1,179 |
| Unsecured debt | — | — | 12,874 | 12,874 | — | — | 22,643 | 22,643 |
| Equity | 1,624 | — | 205,909 | 207,533 | 2,341 | — | 73,951 | 76,292 |
| Short term investments | 113,446 | — | — | 113,446 | 10,869 | — | — | 10,869 |
| Total Investments | $115,070 | $— | $1,814,161 | $1,929,231 | $13,210 | $— | $1,716,054 | $1,729,264 |
(1)Excludes the Company's $25,039 investment in CION/EagleTree, which is measured at NAV.
(2)Excludes the Company's $30,766 investment in CION/EagleTree, which is measured at NAV.
The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for investments that use Level 3 inputs for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:
| Year Ended December 31, 2023 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Secured First Lien Debt | Senior Secured Second Lien Debt | Collateralized Securities and Structured Products - Equity | Unsecured Debt | Equity | Total | |
| Beginning balance, December 31, 2022 | $1,579,512 | $38,769 | $1,179 | $22,643 | $73,951 | $1,716,054 |
| Investments purchased(2)(3) | 393,865 | 57 | — | 5,449 | 111,200 | 510,571 |
| Net realized loss | (24,261) | — | — | — | (7,666) | (31,927) |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 20,543 | (9,901) | 242 | (11,035) | 28,815 | 28,664 |
| Accretion of discount | 13,285 | 204 | — | 17 | — | 13,506 |
| Sales and principal repayments(3) | (417,773) | (18) | (325) | (4,200) | (391) | (422,707) |
| Ending balance, December 31, 2023 | $1,565,171 | $29,111 | $1,096 | $12,874 | $205,909 | $1,814,161 |
| Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments still held as of December 31, 2023(1) | $5,416 | $(9,901) | $242 | $(11,035) | $26,333 | $11,055 |
(1)Included in net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments in the consolidated statements of operations.
(2)Investments purchased includes PIK interest.
(3)Includes non-cash restructured securities.
| Year Ended December 31, 2022 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Secured First Lien Debt | Senior Secured Second Lien Debt | Collateralized Securities and Structured Products - Equity | Unsecured Debt | Equity | Total | |
| Beginning balance, December 31, 2021 | $1,526,989 | $38,583 | $2,998 | $26,616 | $37,736 | $1,632,922 |
| Investments purchased(1) | 549,950 | 19,930 | — | 3,635 | 35,081 | 608,596 |
| Net realized (loss) gain | (5,646) | (19,327) | 24 | — | (7,798) | (32,747) |
| Net change in unrealized (depreciation) appreciation | (21,581) | 14,604 | (621) | (7,623) | 9,999 | (5,222) |
| Accretion of discount | 10,517 | 500 | — | 15 | — | 11,032 |
| Sales and principal repayments(1) | (480,717) | (15,521) | (1,222) | — | (1,067) | (498,527) |
| Ending balance, December 31, 2022 | $1,579,512 | $38,769 | $1,179 | $22,643 | $73,951 | $1,716,054 |
| Change in net unrealized (depreciation) appreciation on investments still held as of December 31, 2022(2) | $(39,831) | $801 | $(621) | $(7,623) | $1,604 | $(45,670) |
(1)Includes non-cash restructured securities.
(2)Included in net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments in the consolidated statements of operations.
Significant Unobservable Inputs
The valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of investments as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
| Fair Value · Valuation Techniques/Methodologies · UnobservableInputs · Range · Weighted Average(1) | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior secured first lien debt | $1,354,388 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 8.5% | — | 32.5% | 13.8% | |||||
| 108,992 | Broker Quotes | Broker Quotes | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| 72,229 | Market Comparable Approach | Revenue Multiple | 1.00x | — | 2.50x | 1.61x | ||||||
| 27,867 | EBITDA Multiple | 9.00x | — | 16.25x | 14.35x | |||||||
| 1,695 | Other(2) | Other(2) | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| Senior secured second lien debt | 27,638 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 13.4% | — | 25.0% | 16.1% | |||||
| 1,473 | Market Comparable Approach | EBITDA Multiple | 9.00x | N/A | ||||||||
| Collateralized securities and structured products - equity | 1,096 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 5.4% | — | 21.0% | 20.7% | |||||
| Unsecured debt | 8,739 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 16.0% | N/A | |||||||
| 4,135 | Other(2) | Other(2) | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| Equity | 90,771 | Market Comparable Approach | EBITDA Multiple | 4.75x | — | 17.25x | 9.38x | |||||
| 84,328 | Revenue Multiple | 0.15x | — | 6.50x | 1.48x | |||||||
| 29,463 | $ per kW | $161.16 | — | $400.00 | $337.28 | |||||||
| 971 | Broker Quotes | Broker Quotes | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| 376 | Options Pricing Model | Expected Volatility | 115.0% | N/A | ||||||||
| Total | $1,814,161 | |||||||||||
(1)Weighted average amounts are based on the estimated fair values.
(2)Fair value is based on the expected outcome of proposed corporate transactions and/or other factors.
| Fair Value · Valuation Techniques/Methodologies · UnobservableInputs · Range · Weighted Average(1) | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior secured first lien debt | $1,471,816 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 6.5% | — | 34.0% | 14.7% | |||||
| 79,035 | Broker Quotes | Broker Quotes | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| 20,050 | Market Comparable Approach | Revenue Multiple | 0.25x | — | 1.70x | 1.19x | ||||||
| 4,527 | $ per kW | $131.85 | N/A | |||||||||
| 3,552 | EBITDA Multiple | 2.75x | — | 4.25x | 4.09x | |||||||
| 532 | Other(2) | Other(2) | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| Senior secured second lien debt | 38,769 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 14.3% | — | 21.5% | 17.2% | |||||
| Collateralized securities and structured products - equity | 1,179 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 21.0% | N/A | |||||||
| Unsecured debt | 15,316 | Market Comparable Approach | EBITDA Multiple | 9.25x | N/A | |||||||
| 7,327 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 17.7% | N/A | ||||||||
| Equity | 33,441 | Market Comparable Approach | EBITDA Multiple | 2.75x | — | 14.55x | 7.02x | |||||
| 23,995 | $ per kW | $412.5 | N/A | |||||||||
| 13,038 | Revenue Multiple | 0.13x | — | 5.75x | 2.93x | |||||||
| 2,238 | Discounted Cash Flow | Discount Rates | 16.8% | N/A | ||||||||
| 1,234 | Broker Quotes | Broker Quotes | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| 5 | Options Pricing Model | Expected Volatility | 80.0% | — | 90.0% | 87.3% | ||||||
| Total | $1,716,054 | |||||||||||
(1)Weighted average amounts are based on the estimated fair values.
(2)Fair value is based on the expected outcome of proposed corporate transactions and/or other factors.
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s senior secured first lien debt, senior secured second lien debt, collateralized securities and structured products, unsecured debt and equity are discount rates, EBITDA multiples, revenue multiples, broker quotes and expected volatility. A significant increase or decrease in discount rates would result in a significantly lower or higher fair value measurement, respectively. A significant increase or decrease in the EBITDA multiples, revenue multiples, expected proceeds from proposed corporate transactions, broker quotes and expected volatility would result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement, respectively.
Note 10. General and Administrative Expense
General and administrative expense consisted of the following items for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
| Years Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |
| Professional fees | $2,178 | $1,778 | $4,214 |
| Transfer agent expense | 911 | 1,124 | 1,290 |
| Valuation expense | 853 | 821 | 904 |
| Dues and subscriptions | 800 | 791 | 411 |
| Director fees and expenses | 696 | 632 | 516 |
| Insurance expense | 675 | 833 | 612 |
| Accounting and administrative costs | 637 | 524 | 759 |
| Printing and marketing expense | 351 | 708 | 990 |
| Other expenses | 281 | 67 | 109 |
| Total general and administrative expense | $7,382 | $7,278 | $9,805 |
Note 11. Commitments and Contingencies
The Company entered into certain contracts with related and other parties that contain a variety of indemnifications. The Company’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown. However, the Company has not experienced claims or losses pursuant to these contracts and believes the risk of loss related to such indemnifications to be remote.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company’s unfunded commitments were as follows:
| Unfunded Commitments | December 31, 2023(1) | December 31, 2022(1) |
|---|---|---|
| Flatworld Intermediate Corp. | $5,865 | $5,865 |
| Thrill Holdings LLC | 5,000 | 3,261 |
| American Health Staffing Group, Inc. | 3,333 | 3,333 |
| Nova Compression, LLC | 2,609 | — |
| Mimeo.com, Inc. | 2,500 | 3,000 |
| Coyote Buyer, LLC | 2,500 | 2,500 |
| Rogers Mechanical Contractors, LLC | 2,404 | 3,365 |
| Moss Holding Company | 2,232 | 2,232 |
| Instant Web, LLC | 2,164 | 5,628 |
| MacNeill Pride Group Corp. | 2,017 | 2,017 |
| Tactical Air Support, Inc. | 2,000 | — |
| BDS Solutions Intermediateco, LLC | 1,905 | 1,998 |
| Bradshaw International Parent Corp. | 1,844 | 1,844 |
| Fluid Control II Inc. | 1,765 | — |
| Sleep Opco, LLC | 1,750 | 1,750 |
| ESP Associates, Inc. | 1,316 | — |
| OpCo Borrower, LLC | 1,042 | 833 |
| H.W. Lochner, Inc. | 1,036 | 225 |
| Critical Nurse Staffing, LLC | 1,000 | 5,599 |
| Dermcare Management, LLC | 671 | 1,862 |
| Service Compression, LLC | 419 | 4,186 |
| Invincible Boat Company LLC | 399 | 559 |
| RA Outdoors, LLC | 372 | 1,049 |
| Ironhorse Purchaser, LLC | 347 | 2,469 |
| American Clinical Solutions LLC | 250 | — |
| American Teleconferencing Services, Ltd. | 234 | 235 |
| Homer City Holdings LLC | 196 | 3,000 |
| Anthem Sports & Entertainment Inc. | 167 | 167 |
| HW Acquisition, LLC | 12 | 2,200 |
| Cennox, Inc. | — | 7,567 |
| Archer Systems, LLC | — | 1,905 |
| RumbleOn, Inc. | — | 1,775 |
| WorkGenius, Inc. | — | 750 |
| STATinMED, LLC | — | 156 |
| NWN Parent Holdings LLC | — | 90 |
| Total | $47,349 | $71,420 |
(1)Unless otherwise noted, the funding criteria for these unfunded commitments had not been met at the date indicated.
Unfunded commitments to provide funds to companies are not recorded on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Since these commitments may expire without being drawn upon, unfunded commitments do not necessarily represent future cash requirements or future earning assets for the Company. The Company intends to use cash on hand, short-term investments, proceeds from borrowings, and other liquid assets to fund these commitments should the need arise. For information on the companies to which the Company is committed to fund additional amounts as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, refer to the table above and the consolidated schedules of investments. As of March 6, 2024, the Company was committed, upon the satisfaction of certain conditions, to fund an additi onal$53,048.
The Company will fund its unfunded commitments from the same sources it uses to fund its investment commitments that are funded at the time they are made (i.e., advances from its financing arrangements and/or cash flows from operations). The Company will not fund its unfunded commitments from future net proceeds generated by securities offerings, if any. The Company follows a process to manage its liquidity and ensure that it has available capital to fund its unfunded commitments. Specifically, the Company prepares detailed analyses of the level of its unfunded commitments relative to its then available liquidity on a daily basis. These analyses are reviewed and discussed on a weekly basis by the Company's executive officers and senior members of CIM (including members of the investment committee) and are updated on a “real time” basis in order to ensure that the Company has adequate liquidity to satisfy its unfunded commitments.
Note 12. Fee Income
Fee income consists of amendment fees, capital structuring and other fees, conversion fees, commitment fees and administrative agent fees. The following table summarizes the Company’s fee income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
| Years Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |
| Amendment fees | $6,415 | $2,633 | $869 |
| Capital structuring and other fees | 4,309 | 4,446 | 4,973 |
| Conversion fees | 477 | 2,365 | — |
| Commitment fees | 308 | — | — |
| Administrative agent fees | 185 | 100 | 85 |
| Total | $11,694 | $9,544 | $5,927 |
Administrative agent fees are recurring income as long as the Company remains the administrative agent for the related investment. Income from all other fees was non-recurring.
Note 13. Financial Highlights
The following is a schedule of financial highlights as of and for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| Years Ended December 31, | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Per share data:(1) | |||||
| Net asset value at beginning of period | $15.98 | $16.34 | $15.50 | $16.80 | $17.38 |
| Results of operations: | |||||
| Net investment income | 1.92 | 1.56 | 1.31 | 1.39 | 1.54 |
| Net realized (loss) gain and net change in unrealized (depreciation) appreciation on investments and (loss) gain on foreign currency(2) | (0.18) | (0.68) | 0.79 | (1.57) | (0.63) |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations(2) | 1.74 | 0.88 | 2.10 | (0.18) | 0.91 |
| Shareholder distributions: | |||||
| Distributions from net investment income | (1.61) | (1.44) | (1.26) | (1.12) | (1.49) |
| Net decrease in net assets resulting from shareholders' distributions | (1.61) | (1.44) | (1.26) | (1.12) | (1.49) |
| Capital share transactions: | |||||
| Issuance of common stock above net asset value(3) | — | — | — | — | — |
| Repurchases of common stock below net asset value(4) | 0.12 | 0.20 | — | — | — |
| Net increase in net assets resulting from capital share transactions | 0.12 | 0.20 | — | — | — |
| Net asset value at end of period | $16.23 | $15.98 | $16.34 | $15.50 | $16.80 |
| Shares of common stock outstanding at end of period | 54,184,636 | 55,299,484 | 56,958,440 | 56,646,867 | 56,690,578 |
| Total investment return-net asset value(5) | 17.00% | 10.44% | 14.43% | (0.94)% | 5.55% |
| Total investment return-market value(6) | 34.33% | (14.87)% | 3.87% | — | — |
| Net assets at beginning of period | $883,634 | $930,512 | $878,256 | $952,563 | $979,271 |
| Net assets at end of period | $879,563 | $883,634 | $930,512 | $878,256 | $952,563 |
| Average net assets | $864,886 | $917,781 | $918,824 | $875,846 | $967,323 |
| Ratio/Supplemental data: | |||||
| Ratio of net investment income to average net assets | 12.14% | 9.61% | 8.09% | 8.99% | 9.03% |
| Ratio of gross operating expenses to average net assets(7) | 16.88% | 11.63% | 9.04% | 9.72% | 11.76% |
| Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets | 16.88% | 11.63% | 9.04% | 9.72% | 11.76% |
| Portfolio turnover rate(8) | 17.43% | 26.81% | 52.04% | 22.99% | 31.59% |
| Total amount of senior securities outstanding | $1,092,344 | $957,500 | $830,000 | $725,000 | $841,042 |
| Asset coverage ratio(9) | 1.81 | 1.92 | 2.12 | 2.21 | 2.13 |
(1)The per share data for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was derived by using the weighted average shares of common stock outstanding during each period. The share information utilized to determine per share data for 2021, 2020 and 2019 in this table has been retroactively adjusted to reflect the Reverse Stock Split discussed in Note 3.
(2)The amount shown for net realized (loss) gain, net change in unrealized (depreciation) appreciation on investments and (loss) gain on foreign currency is the balancing figure derived from the other figures in the schedule. The amount shown at this caption for a share outstanding throughout the period may not agree with the change in the aggregate gains and losses in portfolio securities for the period because of the timing of sales and repurchases of the Company’s shares in relation to fluctuating market values for the portfolio. As a result, net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations in this schedule may vary from the consolidated statements of operations.
(3)The continuous issuance of shares of common stock may have caused an incremental increase in net asset value per share due to the sale of shares at the then prevailing public offering price and the receipt of net proceeds per share by the Company in excess of net asset value per share on each subscription closing date. The per share impact of the continuous issuance of shares of common stock was an increase to net asset value of less than $0.01 per share during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019. The Company's follow-on continuous public offering ended on January 25, 2019.
(4)Repurchases of common stock may have caused an incremental decrease or increase in net asset value per share due to the repurchase of shares at a price in excess of or below net asset value per share, respectively, on each repurchase date. The per share impact of repurchases of common stock was a decrease to net asset value of less than $0.01 per share during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019.
(5)Total investment return-net asset value is a measure of the change in total value for shareholders who held the Company’s common stock at the beginning and end of the period, including distributions paid or payable during the period. Total investment return-net asset value is based on (i) the beginning period net asset value per share on the first day of the period, (ii) the net asset value per share on the last day of the period of (A)one share plus (B) any fractional shares issued in connection with the reinvestment of distributions, and (iii) the value of distributions payable, if any, on the last day of the period. The total investment return-net asset value calculation assumes that distributions are reinvested in accordance with the Company's distribution reinvestment plan then in effect as described in Note 5. The total investment return-net asset value does not consider the effect of the sales load from the sale of the Company’s common stock. The total investment return-net asset value includes the effect of the issuance of shares at a net offering price that is greater than net asset value per share, which causes an increase in net asset value per share. Total returns covering less than a full year are not annualized.
(6)Total investment return-market value for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was calculated by taking the change in the market price of the Company's common stock since the first day of the period, and including the impact of distributions reinvested in accordance with the Company’s New DRP. Total investment return-market value does not consider the effect of any sales commissions or charges that may be incurred in connection with the sale of shares of the Company’s common stock. The historical calculation of total investment return-market value in the table should not be considered a representation of the Company’s future total return based on market value, which may be greater or less than the return shown in the table due to a number of factors, including the Company’s ability or inability to make investments in companies that meet its investment criteria, the interest rates payable on the debt securities the Company acquires, the level of the Company’s expenses, variations in and the timing of the recognition of realized and unrealized gains or losses, the degree to which the Company encounters competition in its markets, general economic conditions and fluctuations in per share market value. As a result of these factors, results for any previous period should not be relied upon as being indicative of performance in future periods.
(7)Ratio of gross operating expenses to average net assets does not include expense support provided by CIM, if any.
(8)Portfolio turnover rate is calculated using the lesser of year-to-date sales or purchases over the average of the invested assets at fair value, excluding short term investments, and is not annualized.
(9)Asset coverage ratio is equal to (i) the sum of (a) net assets at the end of the period and (b) total senior securities outstanding at the end of the period (excluding unfunded commitments), divided by (ii) total senior securities outstanding at the end of the period.
Note 14. Income Taxes
It is the Company's policy to comply with all requirements of the Code applicable to RICs and to distribute at least 90% of its taxable income to its shareholders. In addition, by distributing during each calendar year at least 90% of its “investment company taxable income”, which is generally equal to the sum of the Company’s net ordinary income plus the excess, if any, of realized net short-term capital gains over realized net long-term capital losses, the Company intends not to be subject to corporate level federal income tax. Accordingly, no federal income tax provision was required for the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022. The Company will also be subject to nondeductible federal excise taxes of 4% if the Company does not distribute at least 98.0% of net ordinary income, 98.2% of capital gains, if any, and any recognized and undistributed income from prior years for which it paid no federal income taxes.
Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with the Code and federal tax regulations, which may differ from amounts determined in accordance with GAAP. These book/tax differences, which could be material, are primarily due to differing treatments of income and gains on various investments held by the Company. Permanent book/tax differences result in reclassifications to capital in excess of par value, accumulated undistributed net investment income and accumulated undistributed realized gain on investments.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company made the following reclassifications of permanent book and tax basis differences:
| Capital Accounts | December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Paid-in-capital in excess of par value | $(341) | $(374) |
| Accumulated losses | 341 | 374 |
These permanent differences are primarily due to the reclassification of nondeductible expenses. These reclassifications had no effect on net assets.
The determination of the tax attributes of the Company’s distributions is made annually as of the end of the Company’s fiscal year based upon the Company’s taxable income for the full year and distributions paid for the full year. The tax characteristics of distributions to shareholders are reported to shareholders annually on Form 1099-DIV and were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
| Years Ended December 31, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | ||||
| Amount | Percentage | Amount | Percentage | Amount | Percentage | |
| Ordinary income(1) | 87,867 | 100.0% | 81,575 | 100.0% | 71,530 | 100.0% |
| Total | 87,867 | 100.0% | 81,575 | 100.0% | 71,530 | 100.0% |
(1)Includes net short term capital gains of $0, $0 and $0 for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
See Note 5, Distributions, for further information.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the components of accumulated earnings on a tax basis were as follows:
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| Undistributed ordinary income | 6,562 | 8,543 |
| Other accumulated losses (1) | (84,271) | (77,942) |
| Net unrealized depreciation on investments | (74,433) | (91,091) |
| Total accumulated losses | (152,142) | (160,490) |
(1) Includes short term capital loss carryforwards of $0 and long term capital loss carryforwards of $82,541 as of December 31, 2023. Includes short term capital loss carryforwards of $7,233 and long term capital loss carryforwards of $66,284 as of December 31, 2022.
As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of value over tax cost was $71,010; the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of tax cost over value was $145,443; the net unrealized depreciation was $74,433; and the aggregate cost of securities for Federal income tax purposes was $2,028,711.
As of December 31, 2022, the aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of value over tax cost was $31,155; the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of tax cost over value was $122,246; the net unrealized depreciation was $91,091; and the aggregate cost of securities for Federal income tax purposes was $1,851,121.
Note 15. Selected Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)
The following is the selected quarterly financial data as of and for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. The following information reflects all adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature, considered necessary for a fair presentation. The operating results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results for any future period:
| Quarter Ended | March 31,2023 | June 30,2023 | September 30,2023 | December 31,2023 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Investment income | $64,975 | $58,496 | $67,540 | $59,999 |
| Net investment income | 29,858 | 23,416 | 29,990 | 21,758 |
| Net realized and unrealized (loss) gain on investments and foreign currency | (60,903) | 4,478 | 17,483 | 29,234 |
| Net (decrease) increase in net assets resulting from operations | (31,045) | 27,894 | 47,473 | 50,992 |
| Net (decrease) increase in net assets resulting from operations per share of common stock(1) | (0.56) | 0.51 | 0.87 | 0.94 |
| Net asset value per share of common stock at end of quarter | 15.11 | 15.31 | 15.80 | 16.23 |
| Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding | 55,109,482 | 54,788,740 | 54,561,367 | 54,292,065 |
| Quarter Ended | March 31,2022 | June 30,2022 | September 30,2022 | December 31,2022 |
| Investment income | $41,683 | $43,552 | $54,163 | $55,500 |
| Net investment income | 19,483 | 19,288 | 25,557 | 23,877 |
| Net realized and unrealized (loss) gain on investments and foreign currency | (11,594) | (20,554) | 8,426 | (14,342) |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 7,889 | (1,266) | 33,983 | 9,535 |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations per share of common stock(1) | 0.14 | (0.02) | 0.60 | 0.17 |
| Net asset value per share of common stock at end of quarter | 16.20 | 15.89 | 16.26 | 15.98 |
| Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding | 56,958,440 | 56,958,440 | 56,816,992 | 55,505,248 |
(1)The sum of the quarterly amounts may not equal amounts reported for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. This is due to changes in the number of weighted-average shares outstanding and the effects of rounding for each period.
The text of this filing, as the company filed it with the SEC, without its images or exhibits. This is not investment advice.