Carlyle Secured Lending Inc

(amounts in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

1. ORGANIZATION

Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. (together with its consolidated subsidiaries, “CGBD” or the “Company”) is a Maryland corporation formed on February 8, 2012, and structured as an externally managed, non-diversified closed-end investment company. The Company has elected to be regulated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the “Investment Company Act”). In addition, the Company has elected to be treated, and intends to continue to comply with the requirements to qualify annually, as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the “Code”).

The Company’s investment objective is to generate current income and, to a lesser extent, capital appreciation primarily through assembling a portfolio of secured debt investments in U.S. middle market companies. The Company's core investment strategy focuses on lending to U.S. middle market companies, which the Company defines as companies with approximately $25 million to $100 million of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), supported by financial sponsors. This core strategy is opportunistically supplemented with differentiated and complementary lending and investing strategies, which take advantage of the broad capabilities of Carlyle’s Global Credit platform while offering risk-diversifying portfolio benefits. The Company seeks to achieve its objective primarily through direct origination of secured debt instruments, including first lien senior secured loans (which may include stand-alone first lien loans, first lien/last out loans and “unitranche” loans) and second lien senior secured loans (collectively, “Middle Market Senior Loans”), with a minority of its assets invested in higher yielding investments (which may include unsecured debt, subordinated debt and investments in equities and structured products). The Middle Market Senior Loans are generally made to private U.S. middle market companies that are, in many cases, controlled by private equity firms.

The Company invests primarily in loans to middle market companies whose debt has been rated below investment grade, or would likely be rated below investment grade if it was rated. These securities, which are often referred to as “junk,” have predominately speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal.

On May 2, 2013, the Company completed its initial closing of capital commitments (the “Initial Closing”) and subsequently commenced substantial investment operations. Effective March 15, 2017, the Company changed its name from “Carlyle GMS Finance, Inc.” to “TCG BDC, Inc.” On June 19, 2017, the Company closed its initial public offering, issuing 9,454,200 shares of its common stock (including shares issued pursuant to the exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option on July 5, 2017) at a public offering price of $18.50 per share. Net of underwriting costs, the Company received cash proceeds of $169,488. Shares of common stock of the Company began trading on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “CGBD” on June 14, 2017. Effective April 12, 2022, the Company changed its name from “TCG BDC, Inc.” to “Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc.”

The Company is externally managed by its investment adviser, Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management L.L.C. (the “Investment Adviser”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Carlyle Group Inc. and an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Carlyle Global Credit Administration L.L.C. (the “Administrator”) provides the administrative services necessary for the Company to operate. Both the Investment Adviser and the Administrator are wholly owned subsidiaries of Carlyle Investment Management L.L.C. (“CIM”), a wholly owned subsidiary of The Carlyle Group Inc. “Carlyle” refers to The Carlyle Group Inc. and its affiliates and its consolidated subsidiaries (other than portfolio companies of its affiliated funds), a global investment firm publicly traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “CG”. Refer to the sec.gov website for further information on Carlyle.

On August 2, 2024, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with Carlyle Secured Lending III, a Delaware statutory trust (“CSL III”), Blue Fox Merger Sub, Inc., a Maryland corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (“Merger Sub”), and, solely for the limited purposes set forth therein, CSL III Advisor, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and investment adviser to CSL III (“CSL III Advisor”), and the Investment Adviser (together with CSL III Advisor, the “Advisors”), pursuant to which, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, (i) Merger Sub will merge with and into CSL III, with CSL III continuing as the surviving company and as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (the “Merger”) and (ii) immediately thereafter, CSL III will merge with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving company (together with the Merger, the “Mergers”). Consummation of the Mergers, which is expected to occur in the first fiscal quarter of 2025, is subject to certain closing conditions, including requisite approval of the Company’s stockholders and certain other customary closing conditions. Refer to Note 14, Merger with CSL III, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for details of the proposed merger.

TCG BDC SPV LLC (the “SPV”) is a Delaware limited liability company that was formed on January 3, 2013. Prior to the termination of its senior secured credit facility on December 11, 2020, the SPV invested in first and second lien senior secured loans. The SPV is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and is consolidated in these unaudited consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of its formation.

On June 26, 2015, the Company completed a $400,000 term debt securitization (the “2015-1 Debt Securitization”). The notes offered in the 2015-1 Debt Securitization (the “2015-1 Notes”) were issued by Carlyle Direct Lending CLO 2015-1R LLC (the “2015-1 Issuer”), a wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of the Company. On August 30, 2018, the 2015-1 Issuer refinanced the 2015-1 Debt Securitization (the “2015-1 Debt Securitization Refinancing”) by redeeming in full the 2015-1 Notes and issuing new notes (the “2015-1R Notes”). The 2015-1R Notes were secured by a diversified portfolio of the 2015-1 Issuer consisting primarily of first and second lien senior secured loans. On July 2, 2024, the 2015-1 Issuer refinanced the 2015-1R Notes (the “2015-1R Refinancing”) by redeeming in full the 2015-1R Notes and issuing new notes and loans (the “2015-1N Debt” and together with the 2015-1R Notes, the “Securitizations"). Refer to Note 8, Borrowings, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for details. The 2015-1 Issuer is consolidated in these unaudited consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of its formation.

On February 29, 2016, the Company and Credit Partners USA LLC (“Credit Partners”) entered into an amended and restated limited liability company agreement, as amended from time to time, (as amended, the “Limited Liability Company Agreement”) to co-manage Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC (“Credit Fund”). Credit Fund primarily invests in first lien loans of middle market companies. Credit Fund is managed by asix-member board of managers, on which the Company and Credit Partners each have equal representation. The Company and Credit Partners each have 50% economic ownership of Credit Fund and have commitments to fund, from time to time, capital of up to $250,000 each. Refer to Note 5, Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for details.

On November 3, 2020, the Company and Cliffwater Corporate Lending Fund (“CCLF”), an investment vehicle managed by Cliffwater LLC, entered into a limited liability company agreement to co-manage Middle Market Credit Fund II, LLC (“Credit Fund II”). Credit Fund II invests in senior secured loans of middle market companies. Credit Fund II is managed by afour-member board of managers, on which the Company and CCLF each have equal representation. The Company and CCLF have approximately 84.13% and 15.87% economic ownership of Credit Fund II, respectively. The Company contributed certain senior secured debt investments with an aggregate principal balance of approximately $250 million to Credit Fund II in exchange for its 84.13% economic interest and gross cash proceeds of approximately $170 million. See Note 6, Middle Market Credit Fund II, LLC, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for details.

On May 5, 2020, the Company issued and sold 2,000,000 shares of cumulative convertible preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Preferred Stock”), to an affiliate of Carlyle in a private placement at a price of $25 per share. In connection with entry into the Merger Agreement, the Carlyle affiliate has agreed to exchange the Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Exchange (as defined below). See Note 10, Net Assets and Note 14, Merger with CSL III, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information about the Preferred Stock and the Preferred Stock Exchange, respectively.

As a BDC, the Company is required to comply with certain regulatory requirements. As part of these requirements, the Company must not acquire any assets other than “qualifying assets” specified in the Investment Company Act unless, at the time the acquisition is made, at least 70% of its total assets are qualifying assets (with certain limited exceptions).

To qualify as a RIC, the Company must, among other things, meet certain source-of-income and asset diversification requirements and timely distribute to its stockholders generally at least 90% of its investment company taxable income, as defined by the Code, for each year. Pursuant to this election, the Company generally does not have to pay corporate level taxes on any income that it distributes to stockholders, provided that the Company satisfies those requirements.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). The Company is an investment company for the purposes of accounting and financial reporting in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”)

Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 946, Financial Services—Investment Companies (“ASC 946”). The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, the SPV and the 2015-1 Issuer. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. U.S. GAAP for an investment company requires investments to be recorded at fair value. The carrying value for all other assets and liabilities approximates their fair value.

The interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP for interim financial information and pursuant to the requirements for reporting on Form 10-Q and Articles 6 and 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, certain disclosures accompanying the annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP are omitted. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for the fair presentation of consolidated financial statements for the interim periods presented have been included. These adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year.

Certain prior period disclosures within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments have been amended to conform to the current period presentation.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make assumptions and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management’s estimates are based on historical experiences and other factors, including expectations of future events that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. It also requires management to exercise judgment in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies. Assumptions and estimates regarding the valuation of investments and their resulting impact on base management and incentive fees involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity and these assumptions and estimates may be significant to the unaudited consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates and such differences could be material.

Investments

Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Realized gains or losses are measured by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the amortized cost basis of the investment at the time of exit using the specific identification method without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized, and includes investments charged off during the period, net of recoveries. Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments as presented in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations reflects the net change in the fair value of investments, including the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation or depreciation when gains or losses are realized. See Note 3, Fair Value Measurements, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information about fair value measurements.

Derivative Instruments

The Company follows the guidance in Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging(“ASC 815”), when accounting for derivative instruments. The Company recognizes all derivative instruments at fair value as either assets or liabilities in its consolidated financial statements. Derivative instruments are measured in terms of the notional contract amount and derive their value based upon one or more underlying instruments. Derivative instruments are subject to various risks similar to non-derivative instruments including market, credit, liquidity, and operational risks. The Company manages these risks on an aggregate basis as part of its risk management process.

The Company uses interest rate swaps to hedge some of the Company's fixed rate debt. The Company designated the interest rate swaps as the hedging instrument in an effective hedge accounting relationship and therefore the periodic payments and receipts are recognized as components of interest expense and credit facility fees within the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Depending on the nature of the balance at the end of the period, the fair value of the interest rate swap is either an asset and included in prepaid expenses and other assets on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities or a liability and included in other accrued expenses and liabilities on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The change in fair value of the interest rate swap is offset by a change in the carrying value of the fixed rate debt. The change in fair value of the interest rate swap is reflected as net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Any amounts paid to the counterparty to cover collateral obligations under the terms of the interest rate swap agreement are included in prepaid expenses and other assets on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Any amounts paid from the counterparty to cover collateral under the terms of the interest rate swap agreement are included in other accrued expenses and liabilities on accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash consist of demand deposits and highly liquid investments (e.g., money market funds, U.S. treasury notes) with original maturities of three months or less. Cash equivalents are carried at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. The Company’s cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash are held withone large financial institution and cash held in such financial institution may, at times, exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limit. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company held restricted cash balances of $42,513 and $37,891, respectively, which represent amounts that are collected and held by trustees appointed by the Company for payment of interest expense and principal on the outstanding borrowings, or reinvestment into new assets. The amounts are held by the trustees as custodians of the assets securing certain of the Company’s financing transactions. There wereno restricted cash balances denominated in a foreign currency as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the cost of foreign currencies was $742 and $659, respectively. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of foreign currencies was $758 and $659, respectively.

Revenue Recognition

Interest from Investments

Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis and includes the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Discounts from and premiums to par value on debt investments purchased are accreted/amortized into interest income over the life of the respective security using the effective interest method. The amortized cost of debt investments represents the original cost, including origination fees and upfront fees received that are deemed to be an adjustment to yield, adjusted for the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, if any.

The Company may have loans in its portfolio that contain payment-in-kind (“PIK”) provisions. PIK income represents interest that is accrued and recorded as interest income at the contractual rates, increases the loan principal on the respective capitalization dates, and is generally due at maturity. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of the loans in the portfolio with PIK provisions was $210,360 and $337,061, respectively, which represents approximately 12.3% and 18.3%, respectively, of total investments at fair value. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company earned $5,033 and $16,301 in PIK income, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company earned $5,417 and $14,321 in PIK income, respectively.

Dividend Income

Dividend income from the investment funds, Credit Fund and Credit Fund II, and other investments funds, if any, is recorded on the record date for the investment fund to the extent that such amounts are payable by the investment funds and are expected to be collected.

Other Income

Other income may include income such as consent, waiver, amendment, unused, underwriting, arranger and prepayment fees associated with the Company’s investment activities as well as any fees for managerial assistance services rendered by the Company to the portfolio companies. Such fees are recognized as income when earned or the services are rendered. The Company may receive fees for guaranteeing the outstanding debt of a portfolio company. Such fees are amortized into other income over the life of the guarantee. The unamortized amount, if any, is included in prepaid expenses and other assets in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company earned $1,039 and $3,594, respectively, in other income, primarily from amendment fees and prepayment fees. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company earned $768 and $2,650, respectively, in other income, primarily from prepayment fees and commitment fees.

Non-Accrual Income

Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when principal or interest payments are past due or when there is reasonable doubt that principal or interest will be collected in full. Accrued and unpaid interest is generally reversed when a loan is placed on non-accrual status. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans may be recognized as income or applied to principal depending upon management’s judgment regarding collectability. Non-accrual loans are restored to accrual status when past due principal and interest are current or there is no longer any reasonable doubt that such principal or interest will be collected in full and, in management’s judgment, are likely to remain current. Management may determine not to place a loan on non-accrual status if the loan has sufficient collateral value and is in the process of collection. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of the loans in the portfolio on non-accrual status was $10,472 and $38,061, respectively. The remaining first and second lien debt investments were performing and current on their interest payments as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 and for the periods then ended.

Credit Facility, Senior Notes, and Debt Securitization – Related Costs, Expenses and Deferred Financing Costs

The Company entered into a senior secured revolving credit facility (as amended, the “Credit Facility”). Interest expense and unused commitment fees on the Credit Facility are recorded on an accrual basis. Unused commitment fees are included in interest expense and credit facility fees in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.

On June 26, 2015, the Company completed the 2015-1 Debt Securitization. The $400 million 2015-1 Notes offered in the 2015-1 Debt Securitization were issued by the 2015-1 Issuer. The 2015-1 Notes were subsequently refinanced on August 30, 2018 in the 2015-1 Debt Securitization Refinancing by redeeming in full the previously issued securitized notes and issuing $449 million in 2015-1R Notes. The 2015-1R Notes were further refinanced on July 2, 2024 in the 2015-1R Refinancing by redeeming in full the 2015-1R Notes and issuing $410 million in 2015-1N Debt, including $30 million in Class C-R Notes retained by the Company.

On December 30, 2019, the Company closed a private offering of $115.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.75% senior unsecured notes due December 31, 2024 (the “2019 Notes”). On December 11, 2020, the Company issued $75.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.50% senior unsecured notes due December 31, 2024 (the “2020 Notes,” and together with the 2019 Notes, the “2024 Notes”).

On November 20, 2023, the Company completed a public offering of $85.0 million aggregate principal of its 8.20% senior unsecured notes due December 1, 2028 (the “2028 Notes” and together with the 2024 Notes, the “Senior Notes”), pursuant to an indenture dated November 20, 2023 as supplemented by a first supplemental indenture thereto, dated November 20, 2023 (together, the “2028 Notes Indenture”). The Company may redeem the 2028 Notes in whole or in part at our option on or after December 1, 2025. The 2028 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank pari passu with all outstanding and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company.

On October 18, 2024, the Company completed a public offering of $300.0 million aggregate principal of its 6.75% senior unsecured notes due February 18, 2030 (the “2030 Notes”) pursuant to an indenture, dated November 20, 2023, as supplemented by a second supplemental indenture thereto, dated October 18, 2024 (together, the “2030 Notes Indenture”). The 2030 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at the Company’s option at any time or from time to time at the redemption prices as set forth in the 2030 Notes Indenture. The 2030 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank pari passu with all outstanding and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company.

The Credit Facility, the 2015-1R Notes, 2015-1N Debt, and the Senior Notes are recorded at carrying value, which approximates fair value.

Deferred financing costs include capitalized expenses related to the closing or amendments of the Credit Facility. Amortization of deferred financing costs for the Credit Facility is computed on the straight-line basis over its term. The unamortized balance of such costs is included in prepaid expenses and other assets in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The amortization of such costs is included in interest expense and credit facility fees in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Debt issuance costs include capitalized expenses including structuring and arrangement fees related to the offering of the 2015-1R Notes and Senior Notes. Amortization of debt issuance costs for the notes is computed on the effective yield method over the term of the notes. The unamortized balance of such costs is presented as a direct deduction to the carrying amount of the notes in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The amortization of such costs is included in interest expense and credit facility fees in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Income Taxes

For federal income tax purposes, the Company has elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code, and intends to make the required distributions to its stockholders as specified therein. In order to qualify as a RIC, the Company must meet certain minimum distribution, source-of-income and asset diversification requirements. If such requirements are met, then the Company is generally required to pay income taxes only on the portion of its taxable income and gains it does not distribute.

The minimum distribution requirements applicable to RICs require the Company to distribute to its stockholders at least 90% of its investment company taxable income (“ICTI”), as defined by the Code, each year. Depending on the level of ICTI earned in a tax year, the Company may choose to carry forward ICTI in excess of current year distributions into the next tax year. Any such carryover ICTI must be distributed before the end of that next tax year through a dividend declared prior to filing the final tax return related to the year which generated such ICTI.

In addition, based on the excise distribution requirements, the Company is subject to a 4% nondeductible federal excise tax on undistributed income unless the Company distributes in a timely manner an amount at least equal to the sum of (1) 98% of its ordinary income for each calendar year, (2) 98.2% of capital gain net income (both long-term and short-term) for the one-year period ending October 31 in that calendar year and (3) any income realized, but not distributed, in the preceding year. For this purpose, however, any ordinary income or capital gain net income retained by the Company that is subject to corporate income tax is considered to have been distributed. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company incurred $750 and $2,557, respectively, in excise tax expense. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company incurred $850 and $2,023, respectively, in excise tax expense.

The Company evaluates tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing its consolidated financial statements to determine whether the tax positions are “more likely than not” to be sustained by the applicable tax authority. The SPV and the 2015-1 Issuer are disregarded entities for tax purposes and are consolidated with the tax return of the Company. All penalties and interest associated with income taxes, if any, are included in income tax expense.

Dividends and Distributions to Common Stockholders

To the extent that the Company has taxable income available, the Company intends to make quarterly distributions to its common stockholders. Dividends and distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the record date. The amount to be distributed, if any, is determined by the Board of Directors each quarter and is generally based upon the taxable earnings estimated by management and available cash. Net realized capital gains, if any, are generally distributed at least annually, although the Company may decide to retain such capital gains for investment.

Prior to July 5, 2017, the Company had an “opt in” dividend reinvestment plan. Effective on July 5, 2017, the Company converted the “opt in” dividend reinvestment plan to an “opt out” dividend reinvestment plan that provides for reinvestment of dividends and other distributions on behalf of the common stockholders, other than those common stockholders who have “opted out” of the plan. As a result of adopting the plan, if the Board of Directors authorizes, and the Company declares, a cash dividend or distribution, the common stockholders who have not elected to “opt out” of the dividend reinvestment plan will have their cash dividends or distributions automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Company’s common stock, rather than receiving cash. Each registered stockholder may elect to have such stockholder’s dividends and distributions distributed in cash rather than participate in the plan. For any registered stockholder that does not so elect, distributions on such stockholder’s shares will be reinvested by State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Company’s plan administrator, in additional shares. The number of shares to be issued to the stockholder will be determined based on the total dollar amount of the cash distribution payable, net of applicable withholding taxes. The Company intends to use primarily newly issued shares to implement the plan so long as the market value per share is equal to or greater than the net asset value per share on the relevant valuation date. If the market value per share is less than the net asset value per share on the relevant valuation date, the plan administrator would implement the plan through the purchase of common stock on behalf of participants in the open market, unless the Company instructs the plan administrator otherwise.

Functional Currency

The functional currency of the Company is the U.S. Dollar. Investments are generally made in the local currency of the country in which the investments are domiciled and are translated into U.S. Dollars with foreign currency translation gains or losses recorded within net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Foreign currency translation gains and losses on non-investment assets and liabilities are separately reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Earnings Per Common Share

The Company computes earnings per common share in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share (“ASC 260”). Basic earnings per common share is calculated by dividing the net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations attributable to common stock by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per common share reflects the assumed conversion of all dilutive securities.

Recent Accounting Standards Updates

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280), which improves reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company does not expect this guidance to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

3. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The Company applies fair value accounting in accordance with the terms of FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). ASC 820 defines fair value as the amount that would be exchanged to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transfer between market participants at the measurement date. Effective September 8, 2022, the Investment Adviser, as the valuation designee pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the Investment Company Act, determines in good faith the fair value of the Company’s investment portfolio for which market quotations are not readily available. The Investment Adviser values securities/instruments traded in active markets on the measurement date by multiplying the closing price of such traded securities/instruments by the quantity of shares or amount of the instrument held. The Investment Adviser may also obtain quotes with respect to certain of its investments, such as its securities/instruments traded in active markets and its liquid securities/instruments that are not traded in active markets, from pricing services, brokers, or counterparties (i.e., “consensus pricing”). When doing so, the Investment Adviser determines whether the quote obtained is sufficient according to U.S. GAAP to determine the fair value of the security. The Investment Adviser may use the quote obtained or alternative pricing sources may be utilized including valuation techniques typically utilized for illiquid securities/instruments.

Securities/instruments that are illiquid or for which the pricing source does not provide a valuation or methodology or provides a valuation or methodology that, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, does not represent fair value shall each be valued as of the measurement date using all techniques appropriate under the circumstances and for which sufficient data is available. These valuation techniques may vary by investment and include comparable public market valuations, comparable precedent transaction valuations and/or discounted cash flow analyses. The process generally used to determine the applicable value is as follows: (i) the value of each portfolio company or investment is initially reviewed by the investment professionals responsible for such portfolio company or investment and, for non-traded investments, a standardized template designed to approximate fair market value based on observable market inputs, updated credit statistics and unobservable inputs is used to determine a preliminary value, which is also reviewed alongside consensus pricing, where available; (ii) preliminary valuation conclusions are documented and reviewed by a valuation committee comprised of personnel of the Investment Adviser; (iii) the Board of Directors engages a third-party valuation firm to provide positive assurance on portions of the Middle Market Senior Loans and equity investments portfolio each quarter (such that each non-traded investment other than Credit Fund is reviewed by a third-party valuation firm at least once on a rolling twelve month basis) including a review of management’s preliminary valuation and conclusion on fair value; (iv) if applicable, prior to September 8, 2022, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) reviewed the assessments of the Investment Adviser and the third-party valuation firm; and (v) if applicable, prior to September 8, 2022, the Board of Directors discussed the valuation recommendations of the Audit Committee and determined the fair value of each investment in the portfolio in good faith based on the input of the Investment Adviser and, where applicable, the third-party valuation firm.

All factors that might materially impact the value of an investment are considered, including, but not limited to the assessment of the following factors, as relevant:

•the nature and realizable value of any collateral;

•call features, put features and other relevant terms of debt;

•the portfolio company’s leverage and ability to make payments;

•the portfolio company’s public or private credit rating;

•the portfolio company’s actual and expected earnings and discounted cash flow;

•prevailing interest rates and spreads for similar securities and expected volatility in future interest rates;

•the markets in which the portfolio company does business and recent economic and/or market events; and

•comparisons to comparable transactions and publicly traded securities.

Investment performance data utilized are the most recently available financial statements and compliance certificates received from the portfolio companies as of the measurement date which in many cases may reflect a lag in information.

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Company’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, these estimated values may differ significantly from the values that would have been reported had a ready market for the investments existed, and it is reasonably possible that the difference could be material.

In addition, changes in the market environment and other events that may occur over the life of the investments may cause the realized gains or losses on investments to be different from the net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation currently reflected in the unaudited consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2024 and audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2023.

U.S. GAAP establishes a hierarchical disclosure framework which ranks the level of observability of market price inputs used in measuring investments at fair value. The observability of inputs is impacted by a number of factors, including the type of investment and the characteristics specific to the investment and state of the marketplace, including the existence and transparency of transactions between market participants. Investments with readily available quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from quoted prices in active markets generally have a higher degree of market price observability and a lesser degree of judgment applied in determining fair value.

Investments measured and reported at fair value are classified and disclosed based on the observability of inputs used in determination of fair values, as follows:

•Level 1—inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices available in active markets for identical investments as of the reporting date. Financial instruments in this category generally include unrestricted securities, including equities and derivatives, listed in active markets. The Investment Adviser does not adjust the quoted price for these investments, even in situations where the Company holds a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.

•Level 2—inputs to the valuation methodology are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date and are those other than quoted prices in active markets. Financial instruments in this category generally include less liquid and restricted securities listed in active markets, securities traded in other than active markets, government and agency securities, and certain over-the-counter derivatives where the fair value is based on observable inputs.

•Level 3—inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to overall fair value measurement. The inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. Financial instruments in this category generally include investments in privately-held entities, collateralized loan obligations, and certain over-the-counter derivatives where the fair value is based on unobservable inputs.

In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the overall fair value measurement. The Investment Adviser’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Investments in Credit Fund and Credit Fund II are valued based on the legal form of investment. For those structured through LLC membership interests, the practical expedient, or net asset value method, is used. For those structured through subordinated notes, a discounted cash flow method is used.

Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the beginning of the period in which the transfers occur. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, there were no transfers between levels.

The following tables summarize the Company’s investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis by the above fair value hierarchy levels as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

(1)Amount represents the Company’s investment in Credit Fund II. The Company, as a practical expedient, estimates the fair value of this investment using the net asset value of the Company’s member’s interest in Credit Fund II. As such, the fair value of the Company’s investment in Credit Fund II has not been categorized within the fair value hierarchy.

(2)Located inprepaid expenses and other assets as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

The changes in the Company’s investments at fair value for which the Company has used Level 3 inputs to determine fair value and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) included in earnings for Level 3 investments still held are as follows:

The Company generally uses the following framework when determining the fair value of investments that are categorized as Level 3:

Investments in debt securities are initially evaluated to determine whether the enterprise value of the portfolio company is greater than the applicable debt. The enterprise value of the portfolio company is estimated using a market approach and an income approach. The market approach utilizes market value (EBITDA) multiples of publicly traded comparable companies and available precedent sales transactions of comparable companies. The Investment Adviser carefully considers numerous factors when selecting the appropriate companies whose multiples are used to value the Company’s portfolio companies. These factors include, but are not limited to, the type of organization, similarity to the business being valued, relevant risk factors, as well as size, profitability and growth expectations. The income approach typically uses a discounted cash flow analysis of the portfolio company.

Investments in debt securities that do not have sufficient coverage through the enterprise value analysis are valued based on an expected probability of default and discount recovery analysis.

Investments in debt securities with sufficient coverage through the enterprise value analysis are generally valued using a discounted cash flow analysis of the underlying security. Projected cash flows in the discounted cash flow typically represent the relevant security’s contractual interest, fees and principal payments plus the assumption of full principal recovery at the security’s expected maturity date. The discount rate to be used is determined using an average of two market-based methodologies. Investments in debt securities may also be valued using consensus pricing.

Investments in equities are generally valued using a market approach and/or an income approach. The market approach utilizes market value (EBITDA) multiples of publicly traded comparable companies and available precedent sales transactions of comparable companies. The income approach typically uses a discounted cash flow analysis of the portfolio company.

Investments in Credit Fund’s mezzanine loan are valued using collateral analysis with the expected recovery rate of principal and interest. Investments in Credit Fund’s subordinated loan and member’s interest are valued using discounted cash flow analysis with the expected discount rate, default rate and recovery rate of principal and interest.

The following tables summarize the quantitative information related to the significant unobservable inputs for Level 3 instruments which are carried at fair value as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s investments in first and second lien debt securities are discount rates, indicative quotes and comparable EBITDA multiples. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s investments in equities are discount rates and comparable EBITDA multiples. Significant increases in discount rates in isolation would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement. Significant decreases in indicative quotes or comparable EBITDA multiples in isolation would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.

The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s investment in the mezzanine loan of Credit Fund is the recovery rate of principal and interest. A significant decrease in the recovery rate would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s investments in the subordinated loan and member’s interest of Credit Fund are the discount rate, default rate and recovery rate. Significant increases in the discount rate or default rate in isolation would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement. A significant decrease in the recovery rate in isolation would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement.

Financial instruments disclosed but not carried at fair value

The following table presents the principal amount and fair value of the Credit Facility, Senior Notes, and the Securitizations as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

The carrying values of the secured borrowings generally approximate their respective fair values due to their variable interest rates. Secured borrowings are categorized as Level 3 within the hierarchy.

The carrying values of the 2024 Notes and 2028 Notes approximate their respective fair values. The 2024 Notes are categorized as Level 3 within the hierarchy and are valued generally using discounted cash flow analysis. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s 2024 Notes are discount rates. Significant increases in discount rates in isolation would result in a significantly lower fair value measurement. The carrying value of the 2028 Notes approximates their fair value due to their inclusion of the fair value of the interest rate swap, as further discussed in Note 7, Derivative Instruments, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements. The 2028 Notes are categorized as Level 3 within the hierarchy.

The carrying value of the Securitizations approximates their fair value. The Securitizations are categorized as Level 3 within the hierarchy and are valued generally using market quotation(s) received from broker/dealer(s), which are significant unobservable inputs.

The carrying value of other financial assets and liabilities approximates their fair value based on the short term nature of these items.

4. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Investment Advisory Agreement

On April 3, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the directors who are not “interested persons” as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act (the “Independent Directors”), approved an investment advisory agreement (the “Original Investment Advisory Agreement”) between the Company and the Investment Adviser in accordance with, and on the basis of an evaluation satisfactory to such directors as required by, Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act. The Original Investment Advisory Agreement was amended on September 15, 2017 and August 6, 2018 after receipt of requisite Board and stockholders' approvals, as applicable (as amended, the “Investment Advisory Agreement”).

Unless terminated earlier, the Investment Advisory Agreement renews automatically for successive annual periods, provided that such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the vote of the Board of Directors and by the vote of a majority of the Independent Directors. On May 2, 2024, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, approved at an in-person meeting the continuance of the Company’s Investment Advisory Agreement with the Adviser for an additionalone year term. The Investment Advisory Agreement will automatically terminate in the event of an assignment and may be terminated by either party without penalty upon at least 60 days’ written notice to the other party. Subject to the overall supervision of the Board of Directors, the Adviser provides investment advisory services to the Company. For providing these services, the Adviser receives fees from the Company consisting of two components—a base management fee and an incentive fee.

The base management fee is calculated at an annual rate of 1.50% of the average value of the Company’s gross assets at the end of the two most recently completed fiscal quarters; provided, however, the base management fee is calculated at an annual rate of 1.00% of the Company’s gross assets as of the end of the two most recently completed calendar quarters that exceeds the product of (A)200% and (B) the average value of the Company’s net asset value at the end of the two most recently completed calendar quarters. “Gross assets” is determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with U.S. GAAP, includes assets acquired through the incurrence of debt (see Note 8, Borrowings, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements), and excludes cash and any temporary investments in cash equivalents. For purposes of this calculation, cash and cash equivalents includes U.S. government securities and other high quality investment grade debt investments that mature in 12 months or less from the date of investment. The base management fee is payable quarterly in arrears, will be appropriately adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases during such the applicable fiscal quarters, and will be appropriately pro-rated for any partial month or quarter.

The incentive fee has two parts. The first part is calculated and payable quarterly in arrears based on the pre-incentive fee net investment income for the immediately preceding calendar quarter. The second part is determined and payable in arrears based on capital gains as of the end of each calendar year.

Pre-incentive fee net investment income means interest income, dividend income and any other income (including any other fees (other than fees for providing managerial assistance), such as commitment, origination, structuring, diligence and consulting fees or other fees that the Company receives from portfolio companies) accrued during the calendar quarter, minus the operating expenses accrued for the quarter (including the base management fee, expenses payable under the administration agreement, and any interest expense or fees on any credit facilities or outstanding debt and dividends paid on any issued and outstanding preferred stock, but excluding the incentive fee). Pre-incentive fee net investment income includes, in the case of investments with a deferred interest feature, accrued income that the Company has not yet received in cash. Pre-incentive fee net investment income does not include any realized capital gains, realized capital losses or unrealized capital appreciation or depreciation.

Pre-incentive fee net investment income, expressed as a rate of return on the value of the Company’s net assets at the end of the immediately preceding calendar quarter, has been compared to a “hurdle rate” of 1.50% per quarter (6.00% annualized) or a “catch-up rate” of 1.82% per quarter (7.28% annualized), as applicable.

Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Company pays its Investment Adviser an incentive fee with respect to its pre-incentive fee net investment income in each calendar quarter as follows:

•no incentive fee based on pre-incentive fee net investment income in any calendar quarter in which its pre-incentive fee net investment income does not exceed the hurdle rate of 1.50%;

•100% of pre-incentive fee net investment income with respect to that portion of such pre-incentive fee net investment income, if any, that exceeds the hurdle rate but is less than 1.82% in any calendar quarter (7.28% annualized). The Company refers to this portion of the pre-incentive fee net investment income (which exceeds the hurdle rate but is less than 1.82%) as the “catch-up.” The “catch-up” is meant to provide the Investment Adviser with approximately 17.5% of the Company’s pre-incentive fee net investment income as if a hurdle rate did not apply if this net investment income exceeds 1.82% in any calendar quarter; and

•17.5% of the amount of pre-incentive fee net investment income, if any, that exceeds 1.82% in any calendar quarter (7.28% annualized) will be payable to the Investment Adviser. This reflects that once the hurdle rate is reached and the catch-up is achieved,17.5% of all pre-incentive fee net investment income thereafter is allocated to the Investment Adviser.

The second part of the incentive fee is determined and payable in arrears as of the end of each calendar year (or upon termination of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as of the termination date), and equals 17.5% of realized capital gains, if any, on a cumulative basis from inception through the date of determination, computed net of all realized capital losses on a cumulative basis and unrealized capital depreciation, less the aggregate amount of any previously paid capital gain incentive fees, provided that, the incentive fee determined at the end of the first calendar year of operations may be calculated for a period of shorter than twelve calendar months to take into account any realized capital gains computed net of all realized capital losses on a cumulative basis and unrealized capital depreciation.

Below is a summary of the base management fees and incentive fees incurred during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

Accrued capital gains incentive fees are based upon the cumulative net realized and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) from inception. Accordingly, the accrual for any capital gains incentive fee under U.S. GAAP in a given period may result in an additional expense if such cumulative amount is greater than in the prior period or a reduction of previously recorded expense if such cumulative amount is less than in the prior period. If such cumulative amount is negative, then there is no accrual. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, there wereno accrued or realized capital gains incentive fees.

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, $11,693 and $13,067, respectively, was included in base management and incentive fees payable in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

On April 3, 2013, the Investment Adviser entered into a personnel agreement with The Carlyle Group Employee Co., L.L.C. (“Carlyle Employee Co.”), an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, pursuant to which Carlyle Employee Co. provides the Investment Adviser with access to investment professionals.

Administration Agreement

On April 3, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the Administration Agreement (the “Administration Agreement”) between the Company and the Administrator. Unless terminated earlier, the Administration Agreement will renew automatically for successive annual periods, provided that such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of the Board of Directors or by a majority vote of the outstanding voting securities of the Company and (ii) the vote of a majority of the Company’s Independent Directors. The Administration Agreement may not be assigned by a party without the consent of the other party and may be terminated by either party without penalty upon at least 60 days’ written notice to the other party. On May 2, 2024, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, approved the continuance of the Administration Agreement for aone year period.

Pursuant to the Administration Agreement, the Administrator provides services and receives reimbursements equal to an amount that reimburses the Administrator for its costs and expenses and the Company’s allocable portion of overhead incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under the Administration Agreement, including the Company’s allocable portion of the compensation paid to or compensatory distributions received by the Company’s officers (including the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer) and respective staff who provide services to the Company, operations staff who provide services to the Company, and any internal audit staff, to the extent internal audit performs a role in the Company’s internal control assessment under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”). Reimbursement under the Administration Agreement occurs quarterly in arrears.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company incurred $337 and $1,150, respectively, in fees under the Administration Agreement. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company incurred $369 and $866, respectively, in fees under the Administration Agreement. These fees are included in administrative service fees in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, $830 and $2,991, respectively, was unpaid and included in administrative service fees payable in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

Sub-Administration Agreements

On April 3, 2013, the Administrator entered into a sub-administration agreement with Carlyle Employee Co. (the “Carlyle Sub-Administration Agreement”). Pursuant to the Carlyle Sub-Administration Agreement, Carlyle Employee Co. provides the Administrator with access to personnel.

On April 3, 2013, the Administrator entered into a sub-administration agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street” and, such agreement, the “State Street Sub-Administration Agreement” and, together with the Carlyle Sub-Administration Agreement, the “Sub-Administration Agreements”). Unless terminated earlier, the State Street Sub-Administration Agreement renews automatically for successive annual periods, provided that such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of the Board of Directors or by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company and (ii) the vote of a majority of the Company’s Independent Directors. On May 2, 2024, the Company’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, approved the continuance of the State Street Sub-Administration Agreement for aone year period. The State Street Sub-Administration Agreement may be terminated upon at least 60 days’ written notice and without penalty by the vote of a majority of the outstanding securities of the Company, or by the vote of the Board of Directors or by either party to the State Street Sub-Administration Agreement.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company incurred $171 and $511, respectively, in fees under State Street Sub-Administration Agreement. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company incurred $170 and $499, respectively, in fees under the State Street Sub-Administration Agreement. These fees are included in other general and administrative expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, $344 and $222, respectively, was unpaid and included in other accrued expenses and liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

License Agreement

The Company has entered into a royalty free license agreement with CIM, which wholly owns the Investment Adviser and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Carlyle, pursuant to which CIM has granted the Company a non-exclusive, revocable and non-transferable license to use the name and mark “Carlyle.”

Board of Directors

The Company’s Board of Directors currently consists ofseven members, four of whom are Independent Directors. The Board of Directors has established an Audit Committee, a Pricing Committee, a Nominating and Governance Committee, a Compensation Committee and a special committee in connection with the Mergers, the members of each of which consist of Independent Directors. The Board of Directors may establish additional committees in the future. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company incurred $147 and $457, respectively, in fees and expenses associated with its Directors' services on the Company's Board of Directors and its committees. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company incurred $103 and $333, respectively, in fees and expenses associated with its Directors' services on the Company's Board of Directors and its committees. These fees are included in directors’ fees and expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, no fees or expenses associated with its Directors were payable.

Transactions with Investment Funds

At times, the Company will engage in purchase and sale transactions with Credit Fund, as detailed below. See Note 5, Middle Market Credit Fund, LLC, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information about Credit Fund.

At times, the Company will engage in purchase and sale transactions with Credit Fund II, as detailed below. See Note 6, Middle Market Credit Fund II, LLC, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information about Credit Fund II.

Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock

On May 5, 2020, the Company issued and sold 2,000,000 shares of the cumulative convertible preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Preferred Stock”), to an affiliate of Carlyle in a private placement at a price of $25 per share. In connection with entry into the Merger Agreement, the Carlyle affiliate has agreed to exchange the Preferred Stock pursuant to the Preferred Stock Exchange (as defined below). For both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company declared and paid dividends on the Preferred Stock of $875 and $2,625, respectively. See Note 10, Net Assets, and Note 14, Merger with CSL III, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information about the Preferred Stock and Preferred Stock Exchange.

Transactions with Carlyle

On November 13, 2023, the Company paid an affiliate of Carlyle a fee for underwriting services rendered in connection with the issuance of the 2028 Notes in the amount of 3.15% of the $6.4 million in aggregate principal of the notes underwritten by the affiliate. On October 18, 2024, the Company paid an affiliate of Carlyle a fee for underwriting services rendered in connection with the issuance of the 2030 Notes in the amount of 1.00% of the $9.0 million in aggregate principal of the notes underwritten by the affiliate. See Note 8, Borrowings, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information about the 2028 Notes and the 2030 Notes.

Merger Agreement

On August 2, 2024, the Company entered into the Merger Agreement with CSL III, Merger Sub, and, solely for the limited purposes set forth therein, the Advisors. Under the Merger Agreement, and subject to its terms and conditions, (i) Merger Sub will merge with and into CSL III, with CSL III continuing as the surviving company and as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and (ii) immediately thereafter, CSL III will merge with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving company. See Note 14, Merger with CSL III, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information regarding the Merger Agreement and the Mergers.

5. MIDDLE MARKET CREDIT FUND, LLC

On February 29, 2016, the Company and Credit Partners entered into an amended and restated limited liability company agreement, which was most recently amended and restated on April 20, 2023 (as amended, the “Limited Liability Company Agreement”) to co-manage Credit Fund, a Delaware limited liability company that is not consolidated in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Credit Fund primarily invests in first lien loans of middle market companies. Credit Fund is managed by asix-member board of managers, on which the Company and Credit Partners each have equal representation. Establishing a quorum for Credit Fund’s board of managers requires at least four members to be present at a meeting, including at leasttwo of the Company’s representatives and two of Credit Partners’ representatives. The Company and Credit Partners each have 50% economic ownership of Credit Fund and have commitments to fund, from time to time, capital of up to $250,000 each. Funding of such commitments generally requires the approval of the board of Credit Fund, including the board members appointed by the Company. By virtue of its membership interest, the Company and Credit Partners each indirectly bear an allocable share of all expenses and other obligations of Credit Fund.

Together with Credit Partners, the Company co-invests through Credit Fund. Investment opportunities for Credit Fund are sourced primarily by the Company and its affiliates. Portfolio and investment decisions with respect to Credit Fund must be unanimously approved by a quorum of Credit Fund’s investment committee consisting of an equal number of representatives of the Company and Credit Partners. Therefore, although the Company owns more than 25% of the voting securities of Credit Fund, the Company does not believe that it has control over Credit Fund (other than for purposes of the Investment Company Act). Middle Market Credit Fund SPV, LLC (the “Credit Fund Sub”) and MMCF Warehouse II, LLC (the “Credit Fund Warehouse II”), each a Delaware limited liability company, were formed on April 5, 2016 and August 16, 2019, respectively. Credit Fund Sub and Credit Fund Warehouse II are wholly owned subsidiaries of Credit Fund and are consolidated in Credit Fund’s consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of their respective formations. Credit Fund Sub primarily invests in first lien loans of middle market companies. Credit Fund and its wholly owned subsidiaries follow the same Internal Risk Rating System as the Company. Refer to “Debt” below in this Note 5 for discussions regarding the credit facility entered into and the notes issued by such wholly-owned subsidiaries.

Credit Fund, the Company and Credit Partners entered into an administration agreement with Carlyle Global Credit Administration L.L.C., the administrative agent of Credit Fund (in such capacity, the “Credit Fund Administrative Agent”), pursuant to which the Credit Fund Administrative Agent is delegated certain administrative and non-discretionary functions, is authorized to enter into sub-administration agreements at the expense of Credit Fund with the approval of the board of managers of Credit Fund, and is reimbursed by Credit Fund for its costs and expenses and Credit Fund’s allocable portion of overhead incurred by the Credit Fund Administrative Agent in performing its obligations thereunder.

Selected Financial Data

Since inception of Credit Fund and through September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company and Credit Partners each made capital contributions of $1 in members’ equity and $216,000 in subordinated loans to Credit Fund. On May 25, 2021, the Company and Credit Partners each received an aggregate return of capital on the subordinated loans of $23,000. Below is certain summarized consolidated financial information for Credit Fund as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

(1)As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, $13,394 and $14,106, respectively, of Credit Fund’s cash and cash equivalents was restricted.

(2)As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of the Company's ownership interest in the subordinated loans and members' equity was $176,865 and $181,960, respectively.

Below is a summary of Credit Fund’s portfolio, followed by a listing of the loans in Credit Fund’s portfolio as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

(2)Floating rate debt investments are generally subject to interest rate floors.

(3)Percentages based on fair value.

^ Denotes that all or a portion of the assets are owned by Credit Fund. Credit Fund has entered into a revolving credit facility with the Company (the “Credit Fund Facility”). Accordingly, such assets are not available to creditors of Credit Fund Sub.

• Denotes that all or a portion of the assets are owned by Credit Fund Sub. Credit Fund Sub has entered into a revolving credit facility (the “Credit Fund Sub Facility”). The lenders of the Credit Fund Sub Facility have a first lien security interest in substantially all of the assets of Credit Fund Sub. Accordingly, such assets are not available to creditors of Credit Fund.

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, issuers of investments held by Credit Fund are domiciled in the United States. As of September 30, 2024, the geographical composition of investments as a percentage of fair value was 2.1% in Canada and 97.9% in the United States. Certain portfolio company investments are subject to contractual restrictions on sales.

(2)Variable rate loans to the portfolio companies bear interest at a rate that is determined by reference to either SOFR or an alternate base rate (commonly based on the Federal Funds Rate or the U.S. Prime Rate), which generally resets quarterly. For each such loan, Credit Fund has indicated the reference rate used and provided the spread and the interest rate in effect as of September 30, 2024. As of September 30, 2024, the reference rates for Credit Fund’s variable rate loans were the 30-day SOFR at 4.85%, the 90-day SOFR at 4.59% and the 180-day SOFR at 4.25%.

(3)Loan includes interest rate floor feature, which ranges from 0.75% to 1.00%.

(4)Amortized cost represents original cost, including origination fees and upfront fees received that are deemed to be an adjustment to yield, adjusted for the accretion/amortization of discounts/premiums, as applicable, on debt investments using the effective interest method.

(5)Fair value is determined in good faith by or under the direction of the board of managers of Credit Fund, pursuant to Credit Fund’s valuation policy, with the fair value of all investments determined using significant unobservable inputs, which is substantially similar to the valuation policy of the Company provided in Note 3, Fair Value Measurements, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

(7)Loan was on non-accrual status as of September 30, 2024.

(8)Represents a non-income producing security as of September 30, 2024.

(9)As of September 30, 2024, Credit Fund had the following unfunded commitments to fund delayed draw and revolving senior secured loans:

^ Denotes that all or a portion of the assets are owned by Credit Fund. Credit Fund has entered into a revolving credit facility (the “Credit Fund Facility”). Accordingly, such assets are not available to creditors of Credit Fund Sub.

• Denotes that all or a portion of the assets are owned by Credit Fund Sub. Credit Fund Sub has entered into a revolving credit facility (the “Credit Fund Sub Facility”). The lenders of the Credit Fund Sub Facility have a first lien security interest in substantially all of the assets of Credit Fund Sub. Accordingly, such assets are not available to creditors of Credit Fund.

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, issuers of investments held by Credit Fund are domiciled in the United States. As of December 31, 2023, the geographical composition of investments as a percentage of fair value was 1.5% in Canada and 98.5% in the United States. Certain portfolio company investments are subject to contractual restrictions on sales.

(2)Variable rate loans to the portfolio companies bear interest at a rate that is determined by reference to either SOFR or an alternate base rate (commonly based on the Federal Funds Rate or the U.S. Prime Rate), which generally resets quarterly. For each such loan, Credit Fund has indicated the reference rate used and provided the spread and the interest rate in effect as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2023, the reference rates for Credit Fund's variable rate loans were the 30-day SOFR at 5.35%, the 90-day SOFR at 5.33% and the 180-day SOFR at 5.16%.

(3)Loan includes interest rate floor feature, which ranges from 0.75% to 1.00%.

(4)Amortized cost represents original cost, including origination fees and upfront fees received that are deemed to be an adjustment to yield, adjusted for the accretion/amortization of discounts/premiums, as applicable, on debt investments using the effective interest method.

(5)Fair value is determined in good faith by or under the direction of the board of managers of Credit Fund, pursuant to Credit Fund’s valuation policy, with the fair value of all investments determined using significant unobservable inputs, which is substantially similar to the valuation policy of the Company provided in Note 3, Fair Value Measurements, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

(7)Loan was on non-accrual status as of December 31, 2023.

(8)As of December 31, 2023, Credit Fund had the following unfunded commitments to fund delayed draw and revolving senior secured loans:

(9)Represents a non-income producing security as of December 31, 2023.

Debt

The Credit Fund and Credit Fund Sub are party to separate credit facilities, as described below. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, Credit Fund and Credit Fund Sub were in compliance with all covenants and other requirements of their respective credit facility agreements. Below is a summary of the borrowings and repayments under the credit facilities for the respective periods.

Credit Fund Facility. On June 24, 2016, Credit Fund closed on the Credit Fund Facility, which has been amended from time to time, most recently on May 21, 2023 and March 26, 2024, pursuant to which Credit Fund may from time to time request mezzanine loans from the Company. The maximum principal amount of the Credit Fund Facility is $100,000 ($175,000 prior to the May 21, 2023 amendment), subject to availability under the Credit Fund Facility, which is based on certain advance rates multiplied by the value of Credit Fund’s portfolio investments net of certain other indebtedness that Credit Fund may incur in accordance with the terms of the Credit Fund Facility. Proceeds of the Credit Fund Facility may be used for general corporate purposes, including the funding of portfolio investments. Amounts drawn under the Credit Fund Facility bear interest at the greater of zero and SOFR (LIBOR prior to the May 21, 2023 amendment) plus an applicable spread of 5.50% (9.00% prior to the March 26, 2024 amendment) and such interest payments are made quarterly. The availability period under the Credit Fund Facility will terminate on May 21, 2025, (May 21, 2023 prior to the May 21, 2023 amendment), which is also its maturity date upon which Credit Fund is obligated to repay any outstanding borrowings.

Credit Fund Sub Facility. On June 24, 2016, Credit Fund Sub closed on the Credit Fund Sub Facility with lenders, which has been amended from time to time, most recently on April 20, 2023, May 29, 2024 and November 4, 2024. The Credit Fund Sub Facility provides up to an amount equal to $465,000 ($640,000 prior to the May 29, 2024 amendment) in secured borrowings during the applicable revolving period (the borrowing base as calculated pursuant to the terms of the Credit Fund Sub Facility) . The aggregate maximum credit commitment can be increased up to an amount not to exceed $1,400,000, subject to certain restrictions and conditions set forth in the Credit Fund Sub Facility, including adequate collateral to support such borrowings. The Credit Fund Sub Facility has a revolving period through May 23, 2025 (May 23, 2023 prior to the April 20, 2023 amendment) and a maturity date of May 23, 2026, (May 23, 2025 prior to the April 20, 2023 amendment), which may be extended by mutual agreement of the parties to the Credit Fund Sub Facility. Borrowings under the Credit Fund Sub Facility bear interest initially at the applicable commercial paper rate (if the lender is a conduit lender) or SOFR plus 2.30% (2.70% and 2.35% prior to the November 4, 2024 and April 20, 2023 amendments, respectively). The Credit Fund Sub is also required to pay an undrawn commitment fee of between 0.00% to 1.75% (0.50% and 0.75% prior to the November 4, 2024 amendment) per year depending on the usage of the Credit Fund Sub Facility. Payments under the Credit Fund Sub Facility are made quarterly. Subject to certain exceptions, the Facility is secured by a first lien security interest in substantially all of the portfolio investments held by the Credit Fund Sub.

6. MIDDLE MARKET CREDIT FUND II, LLC

On November 3, 2020, the Company and CCLF entered into a limited liability company agreement to co-manage Credit Fund II, a Delaware limited liability company that is not consolidated in the Company's consolidated financial statements. Credit Fund II primarily invests in senior secured loans of middle market companies. Credit Fund II is managed by afour-member board, on which the Company and CCLF have equal representation. Establishing a quorum for Credit Fund II's board requires at least one of the Company's representatives and one of CCLF's representatives. The Company and CCLF have

84.13% and 15.87% economic ownership of Credit Fund II, respectively. By virtue of its membership interest, each of the Company and CCLF indirectly bears an allocable share of all expenses and other obligations of Credit Fund II.

Credit Fund II's initial portfolio consisted of 45 senior secured loans of middle market companies with an aggregate principal balance of approximately $250 million. Credit Fund II's initial portfolio was funded on November 3, 2020 with existing senior secured debt investments contributed by the Company and as part of the transaction, the Company determined that the contribution met the requirements under ASC 860, Transfers and Servicing.

Credit Fund II is expected to make only limited new investments in senior secured loans of middle market companies. Portfolio and investment decisions with respect to Credit Fund II must be unanimously approved by a quorum of Credit Fund II’s board members consisting of at least one of the Company's representatives and one of CCLF's representatives. Therefore, although the Company owns more than 25% of the voting securities of Credit Fund II, the Company does not believe that it has control over Credit Fund II (other than for purposes of the Investment Company Act).

Middle Market Credit Fund II SPV, LLC (“Credit Fund II Sub”), a Delaware limited liability company, was formed on September 4, 2020. Credit Fund II Sub is a wholly owned subsidiary of Credit Fund II and is consolidated in Credit Fund II’s consolidated financial statements commencing from the date of its formation. Credit Fund II Sub primarily holds investments in first lien loans of middle market companies, which are pledged as security for the Credit Fund II Senior Notes. Refer to “Credit Fund II Senior Notes” in this Note 6 for discussions regarding the notes issued by Credit Fund II Sub.

Credit Fund II, the Company and CCLF entered into an administration agreement with Carlyle Global Credit Administration L.L.C., the administrative agent of Credit Fund II (in such capacity, the “Credit Fund II Administrative Agent”), pursuant to which the Credit Fund II Administrative Agent is delegated certain administrative and non-discretionary functions, is authorized to enter into sub-administration agreements at the expense of Credit Fund II with the approval of the board of managers of Credit Fund II, and is reimbursed by Credit Fund II for its costs and expenses and Credit Fund II’s allocable portion of overhead incurred by the Credit Fund II Administrative Agent in performing its obligations thereunder.

Selected Financial Data

Since inception of Credit Fund II and through September 30, 2024, the Company and CCLF made capital contributions of $78,096 and $12,709 in members’ equity, respectively, to Credit Fund II. Below is certain summarized consolidated information for Credit Fund II as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

(1)As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, all of Credit Fund II’s cash and cash equivalents was restricted.

(2)As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of Company's ownership interest in the members' equity was $67,107 and $67,419, respectively.

Below is a summary of Credit Fund II’s portfolio, followed by a listing of the loans in Credit Fund II’s portfolio as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

(2)Floating rate debt investments are generally subject to interest rate floors.

(3)Percentages based on fair value.

^ Denotes that all or a portion of the assets are owned by Credit Fund II Sub. Credit Fund II Sub has entered into the Credit Fund II Sub Notes. The lenders of the Credit Fund II Sub Notes have a first lien security interest in substantially all of the assets of Credit Fund II Sub. Accordingly, such assets are not available to creditors of Credit Fund II.

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, issuers of investments held by Credit Fund II are domiciled in the United States. As of September 30, 2024, the geographical composition of investments as a percentage of fair value was 4.9% in Canada,2.1% in Luxembourg, and 93.0% in the United States. Certain portfolio company investments are subject to contractual restrictions on sales.

(2)Variable rate loans to the portfolio companies bear interest at a rate that is determined by reference to either SOFR or an alternate base rate (commonly based on the Federal Funds Rate or the U.S. Prime Rate), which generally resets quarterly. For each such loan, Credit Fund II has indicated the reference rate used and provided the spread and the interest rate in effect as of September 30, 2024. As of September 30, 2024, the reference rates for Credit Fund II's variable rate loans were the 30-day SOFR at 4.85%, the 90-day SOFR at 4.59% and the 180-day SOFR at 4.25%.

(3)Loan includes interest rate floor feature, which ranges from 0.50% to 1.00%.

(4)Amortized cost represents original cost, including origination fees and upfront fees received that are deemed to be an adjustment to yield, adjusted for the accretion/amortization of discounts/premiums, as applicable, on debt investments using the effective interest method.

(5)Fair value is determined in good faith by or under the direction of the board of managers of Credit Fund II, pursuant to Credit Fund II’s valuation policy, with the fair value of all investments determined using significant unobservable inputs, which is substantially similar to the valuation policy of the Company provided in Note 3, Fair Value Measurements, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

(7)Represents a non-income producing security as of September 30, 2024.

(8)Loan was on non-accrual status as of September 30, 2024.

^ Denotes that all or a portion of the assets are owned by Credit Fund II Sub. Credit Fund II Sub has entered into the Credit Fund II Sub Notes. The lenders of the Credit Fund II Sub Notes have a first lien security interest in substantially all of the assets of Credit Fund II Sub. Accordingly, such assets are not available to creditors of Credit Fund II.

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, issuers of investments held by Credit Fund II are domiciled in the United States. As of December 31, 2023, the geographical composition of investments as a percentage of fair value was 4.1% in Canada,1.7% in Luxembourg,2.3% in the United Kingdom and 91.9% in the United States. Certain portfolio company investments are subject to contractual restrictions on sales.

(2)Variable rate loans to the portfolio companies bear interest at a rate that is determined by reference to either SOFR or an alternate base rate (commonly based on the Federal Funds Rate or the U.S. Prime Rate), which generally resets quarterly. For each such loan, Credit Fund II has indicated the reference rate used and provided the spread and the interest rate in effect as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2023, the reference rates for Credit Fund II's variable rate loans were the 30-day SOFR at 5.35%, the 90-day SOFR at 5.33% and the 180-day SOFR at 5.16%.

(3)Loan includes interest rate floor feature, which ranges from 0.50% to 1.00%.

(4)Amortized cost represents original cost, including origination fees and upfront fees received that are deemed to be an adjustment to yield, adjusted for the accretion/amortization of discounts/premiums, as applicable, on debt investments using the effective interest method.

(5)Fair value is determined in good faith by or under the direction of the board of managers of Credit Fund II, pursuant to Credit Fund II’s valuation policy, with the fair value of all investments determined using significant unobservable inputs, which is substantially similar to the valuation policy of the Company provided in Note 3, Fair Value Measurements, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

(6)Represents a corporate mezzanine loan, which is subordinated to senior secured term loans of the portfolio company.

(7)Loans include a credit spread adjustment that typically ranges from 0.10% to 0.43%.

(8)Loan is in forbearance as of December 31, 2023.

(9)Loan is on non-accrual status as of December 31, 2023.

Credit Fund II Senior Notes

On November 3, 2020, Credit Fund II Sub closed on the Credit Fund II Senior Notes (the “Credit Fund II Senior Notes”) with lenders, which has been amended from time to time, most recently on August 4, 2023. The Credit Fund II Senior Notes provides for secured borrowings totaling $157,500 withtwo tranches, A-1 and A-2 outstanding. The facility is secured by a first lien security interest in substantially all of the portfolio investments held by Credit Fund II Sub. The maturity date of the Credit Fund II Senior Notes is November 3, 2030. Amounts issued for the Class A-1 notes totaled $147,500 and bear interest at a rate of Term SOFR plus 2.85%, and amounts issued for the Class A-2 notes totaled $10,000 and bear interest at Term SOFR plus 3.35%. The A-1 Notes were rated AAA, and the A-2 Notes were rated AA by DBRS Morningstar. The terms of the Credit Fund II Senior Notes provide that as loans pay down, up to $100,000 is available from principal proceeds for reinvestment, and then the investment principal proceeds are used to directly pay down the principal balance on the Credit Fund II Senior Notes. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, Credit Fund II Sub was in compliance with all covenants and other requirements of its respective credit agreements.

7. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

In November 2023, in connection with the issuance of the 2028 Notes, the Company entered into afive-year interest rate swap agreement with Morgan Stanley Capital Services LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) to mitigate the exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates for a total notional amount of $85.0 million, maturing on December 1, 2028. Morgan Stanley has the ability to exercise an early termination commencing on December 1, 2025, subject to providing written notice thirty days prior. Under the interest rate swap agreement, the Company receives a fixed interest of 8.20% and pays a floating rate based on the compounded average daily SOFR rate plus 3.139%. The Company designated this interest rate swap as a hedging instrument to the 2028 Notes.

In October 2024, in connection with the issuance of the 2030 Notes, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement with JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A. (“JP Morgan”) to mitigate the exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates for a total notional amount of $300.0 million, maturing on February 18, 2030. Under the interest rate agreement, commencing on the effective date of August 18, 2025, the Company receives a fixed interest rate of 6.75% and pays a floating interest rate based on the compounded average daily SOFR plus 3.23%. The Company designated this interest rate swap as a hedging instrument to the 2030 Notes.

Refer to Note 3, Fair Value Measurements, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for details related to the fair value measurement of derivatives instruments and Note 8, Borrowings, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for details related to the Company’s 2028 Notes.

The following table details our interest rate swap contracts outstanding as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

As a result of the Company’s designation of the interest rate swap as a hedging instrument in a qualifying hedge accounting relationship, the Company is required to record the hedging instrument and the related hedged item at their respective fair values, with all associated changes in those fair values recorded in interest expense and credit facility fees. The net amount recorded in interest expense and credit facility fees was $92 and $257, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. The Company didnot enter into any interest rate swap contracts for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023.

The Company’s interest rate swaps are subject to master netting agreements. These agreements include provisions to offset positions with the same counterparty in the event of default by one of the parties. The Company’s unrealized appreciation and depreciation on derivative instruments are reported net in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The following tables present the Company’s assets and liabilities related to derivatives by counterparty, net of amounts available for offset under a master netting arrangement and net of any collateral received or pledged by the Company for such assets and liabilities as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

8. BORROWINGS

The Company is party to the Credit Facility, as described below. In accordance with the Investment Company Act, the Company is currently only allowed to borrow amounts such that its asset coverage, as defined in the Investment Company Act, is at least 150% after such borrowing. For the purposes of the asset coverage ratio under the Investment Company Act, the Preferred Stock, as defined in Note 1, Organization, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements is considered a senior security and is included in the denominator of the calculation. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, asset coverage was 194.9% and 183.4%, respectively, and the Company is in compliance with all covenants and other requirements of the credit facility agreement.

The following table details the principal amount and carrying amount of the Company’s debt and secured borrowings as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Credit Facility

The Company closed on the Credit Facility on March 21, 2014. The Credit Facility was most recently amended and restated on May 29, 2024, and may be further amended from time to time. The maximum principal amount of the Credit Facility is $790,000 ($745,000 prior to the August 31, 2023 amendment and $688,000 prior to April 21, 2023), pursuant to the terms of the agreement, subject to availability under the Credit Facility, which is based on certain advance rates multiplied by the value of the Company’s portfolio investments (subject to certain concentration limitations) net of certain other indebtedness that the Company may incur in accordance with the terms of the Credit Facility. Proceeds of the Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purposes, including the funding of portfolio investments. Maximum capacity under the Credit Facility may be increased to $1,185,000 ($900,000 prior to the August 31, 2023 amendment), through the exercise by the Company of an uncommitted accordion feature through which existing and new lenders may, at their option, agree to provide additional financing. The Credit Facility includes a $50,000 limit for swingline loans and a $20,000 limit for letters of credit. The Company may borrow amounts in U.S. dollars or certain other permitted currencies. Amounts drawn under the Credit Facility, including amounts drawn in respect of letters of credit, bear interest at either (i) a term benchmark rate of the Adjusted Term SOFR Rate, the Adjusted Euribor Rate, or the applicable Local Rate, as the case may be, or (ii) an Alternate Base Rate (which is the highest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the NYFRB Rate plus 0.50%, or (c) the Adjusted Term SOFR Rate for one month plus 1.00%) plus an applicable margin, each capitalized term as defined in the Credit Facility. The applicable margin for a term benchmark rate loan will be up to 1.875% and for an Alternate Base Rate loan will be up to 0.875%, in each case depending on the level of the gross borrowing base compared to the combined debt amount. The Company may elect either the term benchmark rate or the Alternative Base Rate at the time of drawdown, and loans may be converted from one rate to another at any time, subject to certain conditions. The Company also pays a fee of 0.375% on undrawn amounts under the Credit Facility and, in respect of each undrawn letter of credit, a fee and interest rate equal to the then-applicable margin under the Credit Facility while the letter of credit is outstanding. The availability period under the Credit Facility will terminate on August 31, 2027 (May 25, 2026 prior to the August 31, 2023 amendment). Prior to the August 31, 2023 amendment, the Credit Facility had a maturity date of May 25, 2027. The maturity date for $655,000 of the $790,000 principal amount was extended to August 31, 2028 as part of the August 31, 2023 amendment. On May 25, 2026, $135,000 of commitments will terminate. During the period from May 25, 2026 to August 31, 2028, the Company will be obligated to make mandatory prepayments under the Credit Facility out of the proceeds of certain asset sales, other recovery events and equity and debt issuances.

Subject to certain exceptions, the Credit Facility is secured by a first lien security interest in substantially all of the portfolio investments held by the Company. The Credit Facility includes customary covenants, including certain financial covenants related to asset coverage, shareholders’ equity and liquidity, certain limitations on the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens, and other maintenance covenants, as well as usual and customary events of default for senior secured revolving credit facilities of this nature. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and other requirements of the Credit Facility.

Below is a summary of the borrowings and repayments under the Credit Facility for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, and the outstanding balances under the Credit Facility for the respective periods.

The Credit Facility consisted of the following as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

(1)The unused portion is the amount upon which commitment fees are based.

(2)Available for borrowing based on the computation of collateral to support the borrowings and subject to compliance with applicable covenants and financial ratios.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the components of interest expense and credit facility fees of the Credit Facility were as follows:

(1)Excludes facility unused commitment fee and amortization of deferred financing costs and debt issuance costs.

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the components of interest and credit facility fees payable of the Credit Facility were as follows:

Senior Notes

On December 30, 2019, the Company closed a private offering of $115.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.75% senior unsecured notes due December 31, 2024 (the “2019 Notes”). Interest is payable quarterly, beginning March 31, 2020. On December 11, 2020, the Company issued an additional $75.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.50% senior unsecured notes due December 31, 2024 (the “2020 Notes” and together with the 2019 Notes, the “2024 Notes”). Interest is payable quarterly, beginning December 31, 2020.

The interest rate on the 2024 Notes is subject to increase (up to an additional 1.00% over the stated rate of such notes) in the event that, subject to certain exceptions, the 2024 Notes cease to have an investment grade rating. The Company is obligated to offer to repay the notes at par if certain change in control events occur.

On November 20, 2023, the Company completed a public offering of $85.0 million aggregate principal of its 8.20% senior unsecured notes due December 1, 2028 (the “2028 Notes” and together with the 2024 Notes, the “Senior Notes”). The Company may redeem the 2028 Notes in whole or in part at its option on or after December 1, 2025.

On October 18, 2024, the Company completed a public offering of $300.0 million aggregate principal of its 6.75% senior unsecured notes due February 18, 2030 (the “2030 Notes”). The 2030 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at the Company’s option at any time or from time to time at the redemption prices as set forth in the 2030 Indenture.

The Senior Notes and 2030 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company that rank pari passu with all outstanding and future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness issued by the Company.

The following table details the Company’s Senior Notes as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the components of interest expense and credit facility fees on the Senior Notes were as follows:

(1)Inclusive of net interest expense related to interest rate swaps, as applicable.

(2)Excludes amortization of deferred financing costs and debt issuance costs.

As of September 30, 2024 $567 of interest expense related to the Senior Notes was included in interest and credit facility fees payable. As of December 31, 2023, no amount was outstanding related to interest and credit facility fees on the Senior Notes. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the weighted average interest rates were 5.78% and 5.84%, respectively, inclusive of the effect of the interest rate swaps.

The note purchase agreement relating to the 2024 Notes, as supplemented by the first supplement contains customary terms and conditions for senior unsecured notes issued in a private placement, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as information reporting, maintenance of the Company’s status as a business development company within the meaning of the Investment Company Act and a regulated investment company under the Code, minimum asset coverage ratio and interest coverage ratio, and prohibitions on certain fundamental changes at the Company or any subsidiary guarantor, as well as customary events of default with customary cure and notice, including, without limitation, nonpayment, breach of covenant, material breach of representation or warranty under the note purchase agreement, cross-acceleration under other indebtedness of the Company or certain significant subsidiaries, certain judgments and orders, and certain events of bankruptcy. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with these terms and conditions.

The 2028 Notes Indenture and 2030 Notes Indenture, contains certain covenants, including certain covenants requiring the Company to comply with Section 18(a)(1)(A) as modified by Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act, whether or not the Company continues to be subject to such provisions of the 1940 Act, but giving effect, in either case, to any exemptive relief granted to the Company by the SEC; to comply with Section 18(a)(1)(B) as modified by Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act, and subject to certain other exceptions. These covenants are subject to important limitations and exceptions that are described in the 2028 Notes Indenture and 2030 Notes Indenture. Neither the 2028 Notes Indenture nor the 2030 Notes Indenture limits the amount of debt (including secured debt) that may be issued by us or our subsidiaries under the indenture or otherwise. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with these terms and conditions.

Securitizations

On June 26, 2015, the Company completed the 2015-1 Debt Securitization. The 2015-1 Notes were issued by the 2015-1 Issuer, a wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of the Company. The 2015-1 Debt Securitization was executed through a private placement of the 2015-1 Notes, consisting of $273,000 in notes that were issued at par and were scheduled to mature on July 15, 2027. The Company received 100% of the $125,900 in nominal value of the non-interest bearing preferred interests issued by the 2015-1 Issuer (the “2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interests”) on the closing date of the 2015-1 Debt Securitization in exchange for the Company’s contribution to the 2015-1 Issuer of the initial closing date loan portfolio. In connection with the contribution, the Company made customary representations, warranties and covenants to the 2015-1 Issuer in the purchase agreement.

On August 30, 2018, the Company and the 2015-1 Issuer closed the 2015-1 Debt Securitization Refinancing. On the closing date of the 2015-1 Debt Securitization Refinancing, the 2015-1 Issuer, refinanced the 2015-1 Notes to the 2015-1R Notes, reduced the 2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interests by approximately $21,375 to approximately $104,525 and extended the reinvestment period end date and maturity date applicable to the 2015-1 Issuer to October 15, 2023 and October 15, 2031, respectively.

Following the 2015-1 Debt Securitization Refinancing, the Company retained the 2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interests. The 2015-1R Notes in the 2015-1 Debt Securitization Refinancing were issued by the 2015-1 Issuer and are secured by a diversified portfolio of the 2015-1 Issuer consisting primarily of first and second lien senior secured loans.

On June 30, 2023, the 2015-1R Notes were amended to transition the benchmark rate to the Term SOFR Rate plus a Term SOFR adjustment (LIBOR prior to the 2015-1R Effective Date, as defined). The amendment was effective at the commencement of the next succeeding interest accrual period following the date of the amendment (the “2015-1R Effective Date”).

On July 2, 2024, the Company and the 2015-1 Issuer completed the 2015-1R Refinancing, which resulted in the 2015-1N Debt, a $410.0 million collateralized loan obligation. On the closing date of the 2015-1R Refinancing, the 2015-1 Issuer refinanced the 2015-1R Notes to the 2015-1N Debt, issued additional 2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interests to the Company in the aggregate notional amount of $13,500, increasing the 2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interest held by the Company to approximately $118,054 and extended the reinvestment period end date and maturity date applicable to the 2015-1 Issuer to July 15, 2028 and July 1, 2036, respectively. As of September 30, 2024, the Company retains the Class C-R Notes.

The following table summarizes the terms of the 2015-1N Debt and the principal amount and carrying value as of September 30, 2024:

(1)Excludes $30 million of Class C-R notes, which are rated BBB-, accrue interest at SOFR plus spread of 3.75%, and are retained by the Company.

The following table summarizes the terms of the 2015-1R Notes and the principal amount and carrying value as of December 31, 2023:

(1)Floating rate tranches bear interest at three-month SOFR plus a Term SOFR adjustment.

The Company contributed the loans that comprised the initial closing date loan portfolio (including the loans distributed to the Company from the SPV) to the 2015-1 Issuer pursuant to a contribution agreement. Future loan transfers from the Company to the 2015-1 Issuer will be made pursuant to a sale agreement and are subject to the approval of the Company’s Board of Directors. Assets of the 2015-1 Issuer are not available to the creditors of the SPV or the Company. In connection with the issuance and sale of the 2015-1R Notes and 2015-1N Debt, the Company made customary representations, warranties and covenants in the purchase agreement.

During the reinvestment period, pursuant to the indenture governing the 2015-1R Notes and 2015-1N Debt, all principal collections received on the underlying collateral may be used by the 2015-1 Issuer to purchase new collateral under the direction of Investment Adviser in its capacity as collateral manager under a collateral management agreement (the “Collateral Management Agreement”) of the 2015-1 Issuer and in accordance with the Company’s investment strategy.

Pursuant to the Collateral Management Agreement, the 2015-1 Issuer pays management fees (comprised of base management fees, subordinated management fees and incentive management fees) to the Investment Adviser for rendering collateral management services. As per the Collateral Management Agreement, for the period the Company retains all of the 2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interests, the Investment Adviser does not earn management fees for providing such collateral management services. The Company currently retains all of the 2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interests, thus the Investment Adviser did not earn any management fees from the 2015-1 Issuer for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. Any such waived fees may not be recaptured by the Investment Adviser.

Pursuant to an undertaking by the Company in connection with the 2015-1 Debt Securitization Refinancing, the Company has agreed to hold on an ongoing basis the 2015-1 Issuer Preferred Interests with an aggregate dollar purchase price at least equal to 5% of the aggregate outstanding amount of all collateral obligations by the 2015-1 Issuer for so long as any securities of the 2015-1 Issuer remain outstanding. As of September 30, 2024, the Company was in compliance with its undertaking.

As of September 30, 2024, the 2015-1N Debt were secured by 77 investments with a total fair value of approximately $468,523 and cash of $42,513. The pool of investments in the securitization must meet certain requirements, including asset mix and concentration, term, agency rating, collateral coverage, minimum coupon, minimum spread and sector diversity requirements in the indenture governing the 2015-1N Debt.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the components of interest expense and credit facility fees on the Securitizations were as follows:

(1)Includes amortization of deferred financing costs and debt issuance costs.

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, $6,886 and $7,098, respectively, of interest expense related to securitizations was included in interest and credit facility fees payable. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the weighted average interest rates were 7.25% and 7.49%, respectively, based on benchmark rates.

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

A summary of significant contractual payment obligations was as follows as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

In the ordinary course of its business, the Company enters into contracts or agreements that contain indemnification or warranties. Future events could occur that lead to the execution of these provisions against the Company. The Company believes that the likelihood of such an event is remote; however, the maximum potential exposure is unknown. No accrual has been made in the unaudited consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2024 and audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2023 for any such exposure.

The Company has in the past, currently is and may in the future become obligated to fund commitments such as revolving credit facilities, bridge financing commitments, or delayed draw commitments. The Company had the following unfunded commitments to fund delayed draw and revolving senior secured loans as of the indicated dates:

10. NET ASSETS

The Company has the authority to issue 198,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of which 50,848,458 and 50,794,941 shares were issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2024 and as of December 31, 2023, respectively. The Company has 2,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, which are fully issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock

On May 5, 2020, the Company issued and sold 2,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock to an affiliate of Carlyle in a private placement at a price of $25 per share. The Preferred Stock has a liquidation preference equal to $25 per share (the “Liquidation Preference”) plus any accumulated but unpaid dividends up to but excluding the date of distribution. Dividends are payable on a quarterly basis in an initial amount equal to 7.00% per annum of the Liquidation Preference per share, payable in cash, or at the Company’s option,9.00% per annum of the Liquidation Preference payable in additional shares of Preferred Stock. After May 5, 2027, the dividend rate will increase annually, in each case by 1.00% per annum.

The Preferred Stock is convertible, in whole or in part, at the option of the holder of the Preferred Stock into the number of shares of common stock equal to the Liquidation Preference plus any accumulated but unpaid dividends, divided by an initial conversion price of $9.50, subject to certain adjustments to prevent dilution as set forth in the Company's articles supplementary (the “Articles Supplementary”) that establishes the terms of the Preferred Stock. The conversion price as of September 30, 2024 was $8.92. Effective as of May 5, 2023, the Company, with the approval of the Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, has the option to redeem all of the Preferred Stock for cash consideration equal to the Liquidation Preference plus any accumulated but unpaid dividends. The holders of the Preferred Stock have the right to convert all or a portion of their shares of Preferred Stock prior to the date fixed for such redemption. Effective as of May 5, 2027, the holders of the Preferred Stock have the option to require the Company to redeem any or all of the then-outstanding Preferred Stock upon 90 days’ notice. The form of consideration used in any such redemption is at the option of the Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors, and may be cash consideration equal to the Liquidation Preference plus any accumulated but unpaid dividends, or shares of common stock. Holders also have the right to redeem the Preferred Stock upon a Change in Control (as defined in the Articles Supplementary).

In connection with entry into the Merger Agreement, upon the terms and subject to the conditions contained in the Preferred Stock Exchange Documents (as defined in the Merger Agreement) by and between the Company and the holder of the Preferred Stock, all shares of Preferred Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Merger will be exchanged for such number of shares of the Company’s common stock in a transaction exempt from registration under the Securities Act, as is equal to the quotient of (i) the aggregate liquidation preference of the Preferred Stock and (ii) the Closing CGBD Net Asset Value per share (as defined in the Merger Agreement) (the “Preferred Stock Exchange”). Any accrued and unpaid dividends of the Preferred Stock thereon to the date of exchange, whether or not declared, will be paid to the holders of record in cash immediately prior to the Preferred Stock Exchange.

At the closing of the Mergers, the Company and CIM, as the holder of record of the Preferred Stock, will enter into a lock-up agreement (the “Lock-Up Agreement”), pursuant to which, during the specified restricted period, CIM may not transfer (whether by sale, gift, merger, by operation of law or otherwise), assign, pledge or otherwise dispose of or encumber (collectively, a “Transfer”) its shares of the Company’s common stock resulting from the Preferred Stock Exchange unless the Board of Directors consents to such Transfer and such Transfer is made in accordance with applicable securities and other laws. Refer to Note 14, Merger with CSL III, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information about the Merger Agreement and the Mergers.

The following table summarizes the Company’s dividends declared on the Preferred Stock during the two most recent fiscal years and the current fiscal year to date. Unless otherwise noted, dividends were declared and paid, or are payable, in cash.

Company Stock Repurchase Program

On November 4, 2024, the Company's Board of Directors approved the continuation of the Company's $200 million stock repurchase program (the “Stock Repurchase Program”) until November 5, 2025, or until the approved dollar amount has been used to repurchase shares of common stock. This program may be suspended, extended, modified or discontinued by the Company at any time, subject to applicable law. The Company's Stock Repurchase Program was originally approved by the Company's Board of Directors on November 5, 2018 and announced on November 6, 2018. Since the inception of the Company’s Stock Repurchase Program through September 30, 2024, the Company has repurchased 11,773,718 shares of the Company's common stock at an average cost of $13.40 per share, or $157,737 in the aggregate, resulting in accretion to net assets per share of $0.65.

Changes in Net Assets

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, there wereno share repurchases. For the three months ended September 30, 2023, there wereno share repurchases. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company repurchased and extinguished 265,195 shares for $3,993. There were 53,517 shares of common stock issued related to capital activity during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. No shares were issued during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023.

The following tables summarize capital activity during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024:

The following tables summarize capital activity during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023:

Share Issuances

Prior to July 5, 2017, the Company had an “opt in” dividend reinvestment plan. Effective on July 5, 2017, the Company converted the “opt in” dividend reinvestment plan to an “opt out” dividend reinvestment plan that provides for reinvestment of dividends and other distributions on behalf of the common stockholders, other than those common stockholders who have “opted out” of the plan. The Company intends to use primarily newly issued shares to implement the plan so long as the market value per share is equal to or greater than the net asset value per share on the relevant valuation date. If the market value per share is less than the net asset value per share on the relevant valuation date, the plan administrator would implement the plan through the purchase of common stock on behalf of participants in the open market, unless the Company instructs the plan administrator otherwise.

The following table summarizes the Shares issued under the dividend reinvestment plan during the nine months ended September 30, 2024:

No shares were issued under the dividend reinvestment plan during the nine months ended September 30, 2023.

Earnings Per Share

The Company calculates earnings per share in accordance with ASC 260. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations, less preferred dividends, by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share gives effect to all dilutive potential common shares outstanding using the if-converted method for the convertible Preferred Stock. Diluted earnings per share excludes all dilutive potential common shares if their effect is anti-dilutive.

Basic and diluted earnings per common share were as follows:

The following table summarizes updates to the Company’s dividend policy as of September 30, 2024. The dividend policy is subject to change by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion at any time.

The following table summarizes the Company’s dividends declared on its common stock during the two most recent fiscal years and the current fiscal year to date:

(1)Represents a special/supplemental dividend.

11. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The following is a schedule of consolidated financial highlights for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023:

(1)Net investment income (loss) per common share was calculated as net investment income (loss) less the preferred dividend for the period divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period.

(2)Dividends declared per common share was calculated as the sum of dividends on common stock declared during the period divided by the number of common shares outstanding at each respective quarter-end date (refer to Note 10, Net Assets, to these unaudited consolidated financial statements).

(3)Total return based on net asset value (not annualized) is based on the change in net asset value per common share during the period plus the declared dividends on common stock, assuming reinvestment of dividends in accordance with the dividend reinvestment plan, divided by the beginning net asset value for the period.

(4)Total return based on market value (not annualized) is calculated as the change in market value per common share during the period plus the declared dividends on common stock, assuming reinvestment of dividends in accordance with the dividend reinvestment plan, divided by the beginning market price for the period.

(5)These ratios to average net assets attributable to Common Stockholders have not been annualized.

12. LITIGATION

The Company may become party to certain lawsuits in the ordinary course of business. The Company does not believe that the outcome of current matters, if any, will materially impact the Company or its consolidated financial statements. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company was not subject to any material legal proceedings, nor, to the Company’s knowledge, is any material legal proceeding threatened against the Company.

In addition, portfolio investments of the Company could be the subject of litigation or regulatory investigations in the ordinary course of business. The Company does not believe that the outcome of any current contingent liabilities of its portfolio investments, if any, will materially affect the Company or these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

13. TAX

The Company has not recorded a liability for any uncertain tax positions pursuant to the provisions of ASC 740, Income Taxes, as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by federal and certain state, local and foreign tax regulators. The Company’s federal tax returns are generally subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a period of three years after they are filed.

The Company’s taxable income for each period is an estimate and will not be finally determined until the Company files its tax return for each year. Therefore, the final taxable income, and the taxable income earned in each period and carried forward for distribution in the following period, may be different than this estimate. The estimated tax character of the dividends declared on preferred and common stock for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was as follows:

14. MERGER WITH CSL III

Merger Agreement with CSL III

On August 2, 2024, the Company entered into the Merger Agreement with CSL III, Merger Sub, and, solely for the limited purposes set forth therein, the Advisors, pursuant to which, on the terms and subject to the conditions sets forth in the Merger Agreement, (i) Merger Sub will merge with and into CSL III, with CSL III continuing as the surviving company as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, and (ii) immediately thereafter, CSL III will merge with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving company. The Board of Directors of the Company and the board of trustees of CSL III, in each case, on the recommendation of a special committee comprised solely of certain independent directors or trustees of the Company or CSL III, as applicable, have approved the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. The parties to the Merger Agreement intend the Mergers to be treated as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

At the effective time of the Merger (the “Effective Time”), upon the terms and subject to the conditions contained in the Merger Agreement, each common share of beneficial interest, $0.001 par value per share, of CSL III (“CSL III Common Shares”) issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares owned by the Company or any of its consolidated subsidiaries (the “Cancelled Shares”)) will be converted into the right to receive a number of shares of the Company’s common stock equal to the Exchange Ratio (as defined below) and, if applicable, cash (without interest) in lieu of fractional shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Merger Consideration”).

As of a mutually agreed date no earlier than 48 hours (excluding Sundays and holidays) prior to the Effective Time (such date, the “Determination Date”), each of the Company and CSL III will deliver to the other a calculation of its net asset value (“NAV”) as of such date (such calculation with respect to CSL III, the “Closing CSL III Net Asset Value” and such calculation with respect to the Company, the “Closing CGBD Net Asset Value”), in each case using a pre-agreed set of assumptions, methodologies and adjustments. Based on such calculations, the parties will calculate the “CSL III Per Share NAV”, which will be equal to the quotient of (i) the Closing CSL III Net Asset Value and (ii) the number of CSL III Common Shares issued and outstanding as of the Determination Date (excluding any Cancelled Shares), and the “CGBD Per Share NAV”, which will be equal to the quotient of (i) the Closing CGBD Net Asset Value and (ii) the number of shares of the Company’s common stock issued and outstanding as of the Determination Date (taking into account the shares of the Company’s common stock to be issued as a result of the Preferred Stock Exchange (as defined below) as if the Preferred Stock Exchange had occurred as of the Determination Date).

The “Exchange Ratio” will be calculated as follows:

The Company and CSL III will update and redeliver the Closing CSL III Net Asset Value or the Closing CGBD Net Asset Value, respectively, in the event the closing of the Mergers is subsequently materially delayed or there is a material change to such calculation between the Determination Date and the closing of the Mergers and if needed to ensure that the calculation is determined within 48 hours (excluding Sundays and holidays) prior to the Effective Time.

Preferred Stock Exchange and Lock-Up Agreement

Immediately prior to the Effective Time, upon the terms and subject to the conditions contained in the Preferred Stock Exchange Documents (as defined in the Merger Agreement), all shares of Preferred Stock issued and outstanding will be exchanged for such number of the Company’s common stock in a transaction exempt from registration under the Securities Act, as is equal to the quotient of (i) the aggregate liquidation preference of Preferred Stock and (ii) the Closing CGBD Net Asset Value per share (the “Preferred Stock Exchange”). Any accrued and unpaid dividends of the Preferred Stock thereon to the date of exchange, whether or not declared, will be paid to the holders of record in cash immediately prior to the Preferred Stock Exchange. After the Preferred Stock Exchange and the issuance of the Company’s common stock pursuant thereto, each share of Preferred Stock will cease to be outstanding, will be cancelled, will cease to exist and will thereafter represent only the rights afforded to the common stockholders following the closing of the Mergers.

At the closing of the Mergers, the Company and CIM, as the holder of record of Preferred Stock, will enter into the Lock-Up Agreement in substantially the form attached to the Merger Agreement (with such changes as may be mutually agreed by the Company and CIM), which will be effective as of the closing of the Mergers, in accordance with the terms and conditions more fully set forth in the form of Lock-Up Agreement (a “Lock-Up Agreement”).

In accordance with the terms of the Lock-Up Agreement, during the Restricted Period (as defined below), CIM may not transfer (whether by sale, gift, merger, by operation of law or otherwise), assign, pledge or otherwise dispose of or encumber (collectively, a “Transfer”) its shares of the Company’s common stock resulting from the Preferred Stock Exchange unless the Board of Directors consents to such Transfer and such Transfer is made in accordance with applicable securities and other laws. The “Restricted Period” will begin on the closing date and end on the date that is (i)360 days after the closing date for one-third of the shares of the Company’s common stock issued to CIM as a result of the Preferred Stock Exchange, (ii)540 days after the closing date for one-third of the shares of the Company’s common stock issued to CIM as a result of the Preferred Stock Exchange and (iii)720 days after the closing date for one-third of the shares of Company’s common stock issued to CIM as a result of the Preferred Stock Exchange.

Consummation of the Mergers, which is expected to occur in the first fiscal quarter of 2025, is subject to certain closing conditions, including requisite approval of the Company’s stockholders and certain other customary closing conditions. Consummation of the Mergers is not subject to approval of the CSL III’s shareholders.

The foregoing description of the Merger Agreement does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Merger Agreement. The representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained in the Merger Agreement were made only for purposes of the Merger Agreement and as of specific dates; were solely for the benefit of the parties to the Merger Agreement (except as may be expressly set forth in the Merger Agreement); may be subject to limitations agreed upon by the parties, including being qualified by confidential disclosures made for the purposes of allocating contractual risk between the parties to the Merger Agreement instead of establishing these matters as facts; and may be subject to standards of materiality applicable to the contracting parties that differ from those applicable to investors. Investors and security holders should not rely on such representations, warranties, covenants or agreements, or any descriptions thereof, as characterizations of the actual state of facts or condition of any of the parties to the Merger Agreement or any of their respective subsidiaries or affiliates. Moreover, information concerning the subject matter of the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements may change after the date of the Merger Agreement, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in public disclosures by the parties to the Merger Agreement.

Additional information about the Merger Agreement, and the transactions contemplated thereby (including the Merger, the Preferred Stock Exchange and the Lock-Up Agreement) will be set forth in the Company’s proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) and registration statement on Form N-14 (the “Registration Statement”) that will include the Proxy Statement, an information statement with respect to CSL III and the Company’s prospectus that will be filed with the SEC.

15. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Subsequent events have been evaluated through the date the unaudited consolidated financial statements were issued. There have been no subsequent events that require recognition or disclosure through the date the consolidated financial statements were issued, except as disclosed below and elsewhere in these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

On November 4, 2024, the Board of Directors declared a base quarterly common stock dividend of $0.40 per share plus a supplemental common stock dividend of $0.05 per share, which are payable on January 17, 2025 to common stockholders of record on December 31, 2024.