Franklin BSP Realty Trust Inc

Previous wording

•limiting our ability to access the capital markets to raise additional equity or refinance maturing debt on favorable terms or to fund acquisitions;

Current wording

•limiting our ability to access the capital markets to raise additional equity or refinance maturing debt on favorable terms or fund acquisitions;

Previous wording

Moreover, we may be required to raise substantial additional capital to execute our business strategy. Our ability to arrange additional financing will depend on, among other factors, our financial position and performance, as well as prevailing market conditions and other factors beyond our control. If we are unable to obtain additional financing, our credit ratings could be further adversely affected, which could further raise our borrowing costs and further limit our future access to capital and our ability to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness.

Current wording

Moreover, we may be required to raise substantial additional capital to execute our business strategy. Our ability to arrange additional financing will depend on, among other factors, our financial position and performance, as well as prevailing market conditions and other factors beyond our control. If we are unable to obtain additional financing, our credit ratings could be adversely affected, which could further raise our borrowing costs and further limit our future access to capital and our ability to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness.

Previous wording

We may need to periodically access the capital markets to, among other things, raise cash to fund new loans and investments. Unfavorable economic conditions or capital market conditions may increase our funding costs, limit our access to the capital markets or result in a decision by our potential lenders not to extend credit. An inability to successfully access the capital markets could limit our ability to grow our business and fully execute our business strategy and could decrease our earnings and liquidity. Additional equity issuances in the capital markets on unfavorable terms could also be dilutive to our existing stockholders. In addition, any dislocation or weakness in the capital and credit markets could adversely affect our lenders and could cause one or more of our lenders to be unwilling or unable to provide us with financing or to increase the costs of that financing. In addition, as regulatory capital requirements imposed on our lenders are increased, they may be required to limit, or increase the cost of, financing they provide to us. In general, this could potentially increase our financing costs and reduce our liquidity or require us to sell assets at an inopportune time or price. We cannot make assurances that we will be able to obtain any additional financing on favorable terms or at all.

Current wording

We may need to periodically access the capital markets to, among other things, raise cash to fund new loans and investments. Unfavorable economic conditions or capital market conditions may increase our funding costs, limit our access to the capital markets or result in a decision by our potential lenders not to extend credit. An inability to successfully access the capital markets could limit our ability to grow our business and fully execute our business strategy and could decrease our earnings and liquidity. Additional equity issuances in the capital markets on unfavorable terms could also be dilutive to our existing stockholders. In addition, any dislocation or weakness in the capital and credit markets could adversely affect our lenders and could cause one or more of our lenders to be unwilling or unable to provide us with financing or to increase the costs of that financing. Further, as regulatory capital requirements imposed on our lenders are increased, they may be required to limit, or increase the cost of, financing they provide to us. In general, this could potentially increase our financing costs and reduce our liquidity or require us to sell assets at an inopportune time or price. We cannot make assurances that we will be able to obtain any additional financing on favorable terms or at all.

Previous wording

Further, such borrowings may require us to maintain a certain amount of cash reserves or to set aside unleveraged assets sufficient to maintain a specified liquidity position that would allow us to satisfy our collateral obligations. In addition, such short-term borrowing facilities may limit the length of time that any given asset may be used as eligible collateral, and these short-term borrowing arrangements may also be restricted to financing certain types of assets, such as first mortgage loans, which could impact our asset allocation. As a result, we may not be able to leverage our assets as fully as we would like, which could reduce our return on assets. In the event that we are unable to meet these collateral obligations, our financial condition could deteriorate rapidly.

Current wording

Further, such borrowings may require us to maintain a certain amount of cash reserves or to set aside unleveraged assets sufficient to maintain a specified liquidity position that would allow us to satisfy our collateral obligations. In addition, such short-term borrowing facilities may limit the length of time that any given asset may be used as eligible collateral, and these short-term borrowing arrangements may also be restricted to financing certain types of assets, such as first mortgage loans, which could impact our asset allocation. As a result, we may not be able to leverage our assets as fully as we would like, which could reduce our return on assets. If we are unable to meet these collateral obligations, our financial condition could deteriorate rapidly.

Previous wording

Our operating results may be adversely affected by a number of risks generally incident to holding real estate debt, including, without limitation:

Current wording

Our operating results may be adversely affected by a number of risks generally incident to holding real estate and real estate debt, including, without limitation:

Previous wording

•acts of war or terrorism, or criminal violence, including the consequences of terrorist attacks;

Current wording

•acts of war or terrorism, or criminal violence, including the consequences of terrorist attacks and other such acts;

Previous wording

•an oversupply of (or a reduction in demand for) space in the areas where particular properties securing our loans are located and the attractiveness of particular properties to prospective tenants;

Current wording

•an oversupply of (or a reduction in demand for) space in the areas where properties securing our loans are located and the attractiveness of particular properties to prospective tenants;

Previous wording

•changes in interest rates and availability of permanent mortgage funds that my render the sale of property difficult or unattractive;

Current wording

•changes in interest rates and availability of permanent mortgage funds that may render the sale of property difficult or unattractive;

Previous wording

Our loans typically have a term of about three to five years. As a result, a significant amount of our invested capital is repaid at loan maturity each year. Our operating results are dependent upon our ability to identify, structure, consummate, leverage, manage and realize attractive returns on, new loans and other investments. In general, the availability of attractive investment opportunities and, consequently, our operating results, will be affected by the level and volatility of interest rates, conditions in the financial markets, general economic conditions, the demand for investment opportunities in our target assets and the supply of capital for such investment opportunities. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in identifying and consummating attractive investments or that such investments, once made, will perform as anticipated.

Current wording

Our loans typically have a term of about three to five years. As a result, a significant amount of our invested capital is repaid at loan maturity each year. Our operating results are dependent upon our ability to identify, structure, consummate, leverage, manage and realize attractive returns on, new loans and other investments. In general, the availability of attractive investment opportunities and, consequently, our operating results, is affected by the level and volatility of interest rates, conditions in the financial markets, general economic conditions, the demand for investment opportunities in our target assets and the supply of capital for such investment opportunities. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in identifying and consummating attractive investments or that such investments, once made, will perform as anticipated.

Previous wording

If we originate or acquire commercial real estate debt investments and there are defaults under those debt investments, we may not be able to repossess and sell the properties securing the commercial real estate debt investment quickly. Foreclosure of a loan can be an expensive and lengthy process that could have a negative effect on our return on the foreclosed loan. Borrowers often resist foreclosure actions by asserting numerous claims, counterclaims and defenses, including but not limited to lender liability claims, in an effort to prolong the foreclosure action. In some states, foreclosure actions can take several years or more to resolve. At any time during the foreclosure proceedings, the borrower may file for bankruptcy, which would have the effect of staying the foreclosure action and further delaying the foreclosure process. The resulting time delay could reduce the value of the assets under the defaulted loans. Furthermore, an action to foreclose on a property securing a loan is regulated by state statutes and regulations and is subject to the delays and expenses associated with lawsuits if the borrower raises defenses or counterclaims. In the event of default by a borrower, these restrictions, among other things, may impede our ability to foreclose on or sell the property securing the loan or to obtain proceeds sufficient to repay all amounts due to us on the loan.

Current wording

When we originate or acquire commercial real estate debt investments and there are defaults under those debt investments, we may not be able to repossess and sell the properties securing the commercial real estate debt investment quickly. Foreclosure of a loan can be an expensive and lengthy process that can have a negative effect on our return on the foreclosed loan. Borrowers often resist foreclosure actions by asserting numerous claims, counterclaims and defenses, including but not limited to lender liability claims, in an effort to prolong the foreclosure action. In some states, foreclosure actions can take several years or more to resolve. At any time during the foreclosure proceedings, the borrower may file for bankruptcy, which would have the effect of staying the foreclosure action and further delaying the foreclosure process. The resulting time delay could reduce the value of the assets under the defaulted loans. Furthermore, an action to foreclose on a property securing a loan is regulated by state statutes and regulations and is subject to the delays and expenses associated with lawsuits if the borrower raises defenses or counterclaims. In the event of default by a borrower, these restrictions, among other things, may impede our ability to foreclose on or sell the property securing the loan or to obtain proceeds sufficient to repay all amounts due to us on the loan.

Previous wording

The size of our real estate owned portfolio acquired through foreclosure has increased in recent years. We have in the past and we may in the future be forced to operate any foreclosed properties for a substantial period of time, which can be a distraction for our management team and may require us to pay significant costs associated with such property. Owning and operating real property involves risks that are different (and in many ways more significant) than the risks faced in owning a loan secured by that property. The costs associated with operating and redeveloping the property, including any operating shortfalls and significant capital expenditures, could materially and adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. We may also be subject to environmental liabilities arising from such properties acquired in the foreclosure process. In addition, at such time that we elect to sell such property, the liquidation proceeds upon sale of the underlying real estate may not be sufficient to recover our cost basis, resulting in a loss to us. Furthermore, any costs or delays involved in the maintenance or liquidation of the underlying property will further reduce the net proceeds and, thus, increase the loss.

Current wording

The size of our real estate owned portfolio acquired through foreclosure has increased in recent years. We have in the past and we may in the future be forced to operate foreclosed properties for a substantial period, which can be a distraction for our management team and may require us to pay significant costs associated with such properties. Owning and operating real property involves risks that are different (and in many ways more significant) than the risks faced in owning a loan secured by that property. The costs associated with operating and redeveloping the property, including any operating shortfalls and significant capital expenditures, could materially and adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. We may also be subject to environmental liabilities arising from such properties acquired in the foreclosure process. In addition, at such time that we elect to sell such foreclosed property, the liquidation proceeds upon sale of the underlying real estate may not be sufficient to recover our cost basis, resulting in a loss to us. Furthermore, any costs or delays involved in the maintenance or liquidation of the underlying property will further reduce the net proceeds and, thus, increase the loss.

Previous wording

We acquire and originate subordinate commercial real estate debt, including subordinate mortgage and mezzanine loans and participations in such loans. These types of investments may involve a higher degree of risk than the type of assets that will constitute the majority of our commercial real estate debt investments, namely first mortgage loans secured by real property. In the event a borrower declares bankruptcy, we may not be able to fully realize on the assets of the borrower, or the assets of the borrower may not be sufficient to fully satisfy both the first mortgage loan and our subordinate debt investment. If a borrower defaults on our subordinate debt or on debt senior to ours, or in the event of a borrower bankruptcy, our subordinate debt will be satisfied only after the senior debt is paid in full. Where debt senior to our debt investment exists, the presence of intercreditor arrangements may limit our ability to amend our debt agreements, assign our debt, accept prepayments, exercise our remedies (through “standstill periods”) and control decisions made in bankruptcy proceedings relating to our borrowers. As a result, we may not recover some or all of our investment. In addition, real properties with subordinate debt may have higher loan-to-value ratios than conventional debt, resulting in less equity in the real property and increasing the risk of loss of principal and interest.

Current wording

We acquire and originate subordinate commercial real estate debt, including subordinate mortgage and mezzanine loans and participations in such loans. These types of investments may involve a higher degree of risk than the type of assets that constitute the majority of our commercial real estate debt investments, first mortgage loans secured by real property. In the event a borrower declares bankruptcy, we may not be able to fully realize on the assets of the borrower, or the assets of that borrower may not be sufficient to fully satisfy both the first mortgage loan and our subordinate debt investment. If a borrower defaults on our subordinate debt or on debt senior to ours, or in the event of a borrower bankruptcy, our subordinate debt will be satisfied only after the senior debt is paid in full. Where debt senior to our debt investment exists, the presence of intercreditor arrangements may limit our ability to amend our debt agreements, assign our debt, accept prepayments, exercise our remedies (through “standstill periods”) and control decisions made in bankruptcy proceedings relating to our borrowers. As a result, we may not recover some or all of our investment. In addition, real properties with subordinate debt may have higher loan-to-value ratios than conventional debt, resulting in less equity in the real property and increasing the risk of loss of principal and interest.

Previous wording

Our commercial real estate debt portfolio may include loans made to developers to construct prospective projects. The primary risks to us of construction loans are the potential for cost overruns, the developer’s failing to meet a project delivery schedule and the inability of a developer to sell or refinance the project at completion in accordance with its business plan and repay our commercial real estate loan due to declining real estate values. These risks could cause us to have to fund more money than we originally anticipated in order to complete the project. We may also suffer losses on our commercial real estate debt if the developer is unable to sell the project or refinance our commercial real estate debt investment.

Current wording

Our commercial real estate debt portfolio may include loans made to developers to construct prospective projects. The primary risks to us of construction loans are the potential for cost overruns, the developer’s failing to meet a project delivery schedule and the inability of a developer to sell or refinance the project at completion in accordance with its business plan and repay our commercial real estate loan due to declining real estate values. These risks could cause us to have to fund more money than we originally anticipated to complete the project. We may also suffer losses on our commercial real estate debt if the developer is unable to sell the project or refinance our commercial real estate debt investment.

Previous wording

Jurisdictions with one action or security first rules or anti-deficiency legislation may limit the ability to foreclose on the property or to realize the obligation secured by the property by obtaining a deficiency judgment.

Current wording

Jurisdictions with one action or security first rules or anti-deficiency legislation may limit the ability to foreclose on a property or to realize the obligation secured by the property by obtaining a deficiency judgment.

Previous wording

We generally require that the borrowers under our commercial real estate debt investments obtain comprehensive insurance covering the mortgaged property, including liability, fire and extended coverage. However, there are certain types of losses, generally of a catastrophic nature, such as earthquakes, floods and hurricanes that may be uninsurable or not economically insurable. Climate change may exacerbate the frequency and severity of these types of events. We may not require borrowers to obtain certain types of insurance if it is deemed commercially unreasonable. Inflation, changes in building codes and ordinances, environmental considerations and other factors also might result in insurance proceeds being inadequate to replace a property if it is damaged or destroyed. Under such circumstances, the insurance proceeds, if any, might not be adequate to restore the economic value of the property, which might impair our security and decrease the value of the property.

Current wording

We generally require that the borrowers under our commercial real estate debt investments obtain comprehensive insurance covering the mortgaged property, including liability, fire and extended coverage. However, there are certain types of losses, generally of a catastrophic nature, such as earthquakes, floods and hurricanes that may be uninsurable or not economically insurable. Climate change is likely to exacerbate the frequency and severity of these types of events. We may not require borrowers to obtain certain types of insurance if it is deemed commercially unreasonable. Inflation, changes in building codes and ordinances, environmental considerations and other factors also might result in insurance proceeds being inadequate to replace a property if it is damaged or destroyed. Under such circumstances, the insurance proceeds, if any, might not be adequate to restore the economic value of the property, which might impair our security interest and decrease the value of the property.

Previous wording

We invest in CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds, which may include subordinate securities, which entails certain risks.

Current wording

We invest in CMBS and CMBS bonds, which may include subordinate securities, which entails certain risks.

Previous wording

We invest in a variety of CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds, which may include subordinate securities that are subject to the first risk of loss if any losses are realized on the underlying mortgage loans. CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds entitle the holders thereof to receive payments that depend primarily on the cash flow from a specified pool of commercial or multifamily mortgage loans. Consequently, CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds may be adversely affected by payment defaults, delinquencies and losses on the underlying commercial real estate loans. Furthermore, if the rental and leasing markets deteriorate, it could reduce cash flow from the loan pools underlying our CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds investments. The CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds market is dependent upon liquidity for refinancing and could be negatively impacted by a slowdown in the new issue CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds market. In addition, the value of CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds may change due to shifts in the market’s perception of issuers and regulatory or tax changes adversely affecting the mortgage securities market as a whole.

Current wording

We invest in a variety of CMBS and CMBS bonds, which may include subordinate securities that are subject to the first risk of loss if any losses are realized on the underlying mortgage loans. CMBS and CMBS bonds entitle the holders thereof to receive payments that depend primarily on the cash flow from a specified pool of commercial or multifamily mortgage loans. Consequently, CMBS and CMBS bonds may be adversely affected by payment defaults, delinquencies and losses on the underlying commercial real estate loans. Furthermore, if the rental and leasing markets deteriorate, it could reduce cash flow from the loan pools underlying our CMBS and CMBS bonds investments. The CMBS and CMBS bonds market is dependent upon liquidity for refinancing and could be negatively impacted by a slowdown in the new issue CMBS and CMBS bonds market. In addition, the value of CMBS and CMBS bonds may change due to shifts in the market’s perception of issuers and regulatory or tax changes adversely affecting the mortgage securities market as a whole.

Previous wording

Additionally, CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds are subject to particular risks, including lack of standardized terms and payment of all or substantially all of the principal only at maturity rather than regular amortization of principal. Additional risks may be presented by the type and use of a particular commercial property. For example, special risks are presented by hospitals, nursing homes, hospitality properties and certain other property types. Commercial property values and net operating income are subject to volatility, which may result in net operating income becoming insufficient to cover debt service on the related commercial real estate loan, particularly if the current economic environment deteriorates. The repayment of loans secured by income-producing properties is typically dependent upon the successful operation of the related real estate project rather than upon the liquidation value of the underlying real estate. Furthermore, the net operating income from and value of any commercial property are subject to various risks. The exercise of remedies and successful realization of liquidation proceeds relating to CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds may be highly dependent upon the performance of the servicer or special servicer. Expenses of enforcing the underlying commercial real estate loans (including litigation expenses) and expenses of protecting the properties securing the commercial real estate loans may be substantial. Consequently, in the event of a default or loss on one or more commercial real estate loans contained in a securitization, we may not recover a portion or all of our investment.

Current wording

Additionally, CMBS and CMBS bonds are subject to particular risks, including lack of standardized terms and payment of all or substantially all of the principal only at maturity rather than regular amortization of principal. Additional risks may be presented by the type and use of a particular commercial property. For example, special risks are presented by hospitals, nursing homes, hospitality properties and certain other property types. Commercial property values and net operating income are subject to volatility, which may result in net operating income becoming insufficient to cover debt service on the related commercial real estate loan, particularly if the current economic environment deteriorates. The repayment of loans secured by income-producing properties is typically dependent upon the successful operation of the related real estate project rather than upon the liquidation value of the underlying real estate. Furthermore, the net operating income from and value of any commercial property are subject to various risks. The exercise of remedies and successful realization of liquidation proceeds relating to CMBS and CMBS bonds may be highly dependent upon the performance of the servicer or special servicer. Expenses of enforcing the underlying commercial real estate loans (including litigation expenses) and expenses of protecting the properties securing the commercial real estate loans may be substantial. Consequently, in the event of a default or loss on one or more commercial real estate loans contained in a securitization, we may not recover a portion or all of our investment.

Previous wording

We may not control the special servicing of the mortgage loans underlying the CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds in which we invest and, in such cases, the special servicer may take actions that could adversely affect our interests.

Current wording

We may not control the special servicing of the mortgage loans underlying the CMBS and CMBS bonds in which we invest and, in such cases, the special servicer may take actions that could adversely affect our interests.

Previous wording

Overall control over the special servicing of the underlying mortgage loans of the CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds may be held by a directing certificate holder, which is appointed by the holders of the most subordinate class of such CMBS and CRE CLO Bonds. We ordinarily do not have the right to appoint the directing certificate holder. In connection with the servicing of the specially serviced mortgage loans, the related special servicer may, at the direction of the directing certificate holder, take actions that could adversely affect our interests.

Current wording

Overall control over the special servicing of the underlying mortgage loans of the CMBS and CMBS bonds may be held by a directing certificate holder, which is appointed by the holders of the most subordinate class of such CMBS and CMBS bonds. We ordinarily do not have the right to appoint the directing certificate holder. In connection with the servicing of the specially serviced mortgage loans, the related special servicer may, at the direction of the directing certificate holder, take actions that could adversely affect our interests.

Previous wording

We invest in collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs") and such investments involve significant risks.

Current wording

We invest in CDOs and such investments involve significant risks.

Previous wording

We have significant competition with respect to our origination and acquisition of assets with many other companies, including other REITs, insurance companies, commercial banks, private investment funds, hedge funds, specialty finance companies and other investors, many of which have greater resources than us, and may not be able to compete successfully for investments. In addition, the number of entities and the amount of funds competing for suitable investments may increase. Many of our competitors are not subject to the operating constraints associated with REIT rule compliance or maintenance of an exclusion from registration under the Investment Company Act. In addition, some of our competitors may have higher risk tolerances or different risk assessments, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of loans and investments, offer more attractive pricing or other terms and establish more relationships than us. Furthermore, competition for originations of and investments in our target assets may lead to the yields of such assets decreasing, which may further limit our ability to generate satisfactory returns.

Current wording

We have significant competition with respect to our origination and acquisition of assets with many other companies, including other REITs, insurance companies, commercial banks, private investment funds, hedge funds, specialty finance companies and other investors, many of which have greater resources than we, and may not be able to compete successfully for investments. In addition, the number of entities and the amount of funds competing for suitable investments may increase. Many of our competitors are not subject to the operating constraints associated with REIT rule compliance or maintenance of an exclusion from registration under the Investment Company Act. In addition, some of our competitors may have higher risk tolerances or different risk assessments, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of loans and investments, offer more attractive pricing or other terms and establish more relationships than us. Furthermore, competition for originations of and investments in our target assets may lead to the yields of such assets decreasing, which may further limit our ability to generate satisfactory returns.

Previous wording

Before making an investment, we assess the strength and skills of the management of the borrower or the operator of the property and other factors that we believe are material to the performance of the investment. In making the assessment and otherwise conducting customary due diligence, we rely on the resources available to us and, in some cases, an investigation by third parties. This process is particularly important with respect to newly organized or private entities because there may be little or no information publicly available about the entity. However, even if we conduct extensive due diligence on a particular investment, there can be no assurance that this diligence will uncover all material issues relating to such investment, that the information provided by the borrower is truthful or accurate, or that factors outside of our control will not later arise. If our due diligence fails to identify material issues, we have in the past and may in the future have to write-down or write-off assets, restructure our investment or incur impairment or other charges that could result in our reporting losses. Charges of this nature could contribute to negative market perceptions about us or our shares of common stock (refer to “Part I, Item 3. Legal Proceedings” for a summary of the Company’s legal proceedings).

Current wording

Before making an investment, we assess the strength and skills of the management of the borrower or the operator of the property and other factors that we believe are material to the performance of the investment. In making the assessment and otherwise conducting customary due diligence, we rely on the resources available to us and, in some cases, an investigation by third parties. This process is particularly important with respect to newly organized or private entities because there may be little or no information publicly available about the entity. However, even if we conduct extensive due diligence on a particular investment, there can be no assurance that this diligence will uncover all material issues relating to such investment, that the information provided by the borrower is truthful or accurate, or that factors outside of our control will not later arise. If our due diligence fails to identify material issues, we have had to in the past and may in the future have to write-down or write-off assets, restructure our investment or incur impairment or other charges that could result in our reporting losses. Charges of this nature could contribute to negative market perceptions about us or our shares of common stock.

Previous wording

In the current environment, in order to maximize value we may be more likely to extend and work out a loan, rather than pursue foreclosure. However, in situations where there are multiple creditors in large capital structures, it can be particularly difficult to assess the most likely course of action that a lender group or the borrower may take and it may also be difficult to achieve consensus among the lender group as to major decisions. Consequently, there could be a wide range of potential principal recovery outcomes, the timing of which can be unpredictable, based on the strategy pursued by a lender group and/or by a borrower. These multiple creditor situations tend to be associated with larger loans. If we are one of a group of lenders, we may be a lender on a subordinated basis, and may not independently control the decision making. Consequently, we may be unable to restructure a loan in a manner that we believe would maximize value.

Current wording

In order to maximize value in the current environment, we may be more likely to extend and work out a loan, rather than pursue foreclosure. However, in situations where there are multiple creditors in large capital structures, it can be particularly difficult to assess the most likely course of action that a lender group or the borrower may take and it may also be difficult to achieve consensus among the lender group as to major decisions. Consequently, there could be a wide range of potential principal recovery outcomes, the timing of which can be unpredictable, based on the strategy pursued by a lender group and/or by a borrower. These multiple creditor situations tend to be associated with larger loans. If we are one of a group of lenders, we may be a lender on a subordinated basis, and may not independently control the decision making. Consequently, we may be unable to restructure a loan in a manner that we believe would maximize value.

Previous wording

Our commercial real estate debt portfolio may include loans that require us to advance future funds. Future funding obligations subject us to significant risks that the property may have declined in value, projects to be completed with the additional funds may have cost overruns and the borrower may be unable to generate enough cash flow, or sell or refinance the property, in order to repay our commercial real estate loan due. We could determine that we need to fund more money than we originally anticipated in order to maximize the value of our investment even though there is no assurance that such determination would, in fact, be the best course of action.

Current wording

Our commercial real estate debt portfolio may include loans that require us to advance future funds. Future funding obligations subject us to significant risks that the property may have declined in value, projects to be completed with the additional funds may have cost overruns and the borrower may be unable to generate enough cash flow, or sell or refinance the property, to repay our commercial real estate loan due. We could determine that we need to fund more money than we originally anticipated to maximize the value of our investment even though there is no assurance that such determination would, in fact, be the best course of action.

Previous wording

Some of our investments may be rated by rating agencies. Any credit ratings on our investments are subject to ongoing evaluation by credit rating agencies, and we cannot assure you that any such ratings will not be downgraded or withdrawn by a rating agency in the future if, in its judgment, circumstances warrant. If rating agencies assign a lower-than-expected rating or reduce or withdraw, or indicate that they may reduce or withdraw, their ratings of FBRT’s investments in the future, the value and liquidity of those investments could significantly decline, which would adversely affect the value of our investment portfolio.

Current wording

Some of our investments may be rated by rating agencies. Any credit ratings on our investments are subject to ongoing evaluation by credit rating agencies, and we cannot assure you that any such ratings will not be downgraded or withdrawn by a rating agency in the future if, in its judgment, circumstances warrant. If rating agencies assign a lower-than-expected rating or reduce or withdraw, or indicate that they may reduce or withdraw, their ratings of our investments in the future, the value and liquidity of those investments could significantly decline, which would adversely affect the value of our investment portfolio.

Previous wording

We directly or indirectly utilize non‑recourse securitizations, and such structures expose us to risks that could result in losses to us.

Current wording

We directly and indirectly utilize non‑recourse securitizations, and such structures expose us to risks that could result in losses to us.

Previous wording

We rely on the Advisor and the executive officers and other key real estate professionals at our Advisor to identify suitable investment opportunities for us. Although there are restrictions in the Advisory Agreement we have entered into with the Advisor with respect to the Advisor’s ability to manage another REIT that competes with us, or to provide any services related to fixed-rate conduit lending to another person, the Advisor and its employees are not otherwise restricted from engaging in investment and investment management activities unrelated to us and do engage in these activities. Some investment opportunities that are suitable for us may also be suitable for other investment vehicles managed by the Advisor or its affiliates. Thus, the executive officers and real estate professionals of the Advisor could direct attractive investment opportunities to other entities or investors. In addition, we may in the future engage in transactions with our Advisor or affiliates of our Advisor, including co-investment transactions, and these transactions may not be on terms as favorable as transactions with third parties. Such events could result in us investing in assets that provide less attractive returns, which may reduce our ability to make distributions.

Current wording

We rely on the Advisor and the executive officers and other key real estate professionals employed by our Advisor to identify suitable investment opportunities for us. The Advisor and its employees are subject to very limited restrictions on engaging in investment and investment management activities that are unrelated to us and compete with us. The Advisor currently manages other investment programs that share similar investment objectives with us and target similar investments as us, including Franklin BSP Real Estate Debt, Inc. (a non-traded REIT) and two private funds, and may in the future advise additional competing investment programs (together, the “Other Funds”). Some investment opportunities that are suitable for the Other Funds. Thus, the executive officers and real estate professionals of the Advisor could direct attractive investment opportunities to other entities or investors, including the Other Funds. In addition, we have in the past and expect in the future to engage in transactions with the Other Funds, including co-investment transactions, and these transactions may not be on terms as favorable as transactions with unaffiliated third parties. Such events could result in us investing in assets that provide less attractive returns, which may reduce our ability to make distributions. In addition, the fees paid to the Advisor by the Other Funds differ from the fees we pay pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, and these differences could create incentives for the Advisor to favor the Other Funds.

Previous wording

The Advisor and its employees are engaged in investment and investment management activities unrelated to us. We cannot provide any assurances regarding the amount of time our Advisor and its employees will dedicate to the management of our business. Each of our officers is also an employee of our Advisor, who has now or may be expected to have significant responsibilities for other investment vehicles currently managed by the Advisor and its affiliates. Consequently, we may not receive the level of support and assistance that we otherwise might receive if we were internally managed. Because these persons have competing demands on their time and resources, they may have conflicts of interest in allocating their time between our business and these other activities. If this occurs, the returns on our investments may suffer.

Current wording

The Advisor and its employees are engaged in investment and investment management activities unrelated to us, including with respect to the Other Funds. We cannot provide any assurances regarding the amount of time our Advisor and its employees will dedicate to the management of our business. Each of our officers is also an employee of our Advisor, who has now or may be expected to have significant responsibilities for the Other Funds. Consequently, we may not receive the level of support and assistance that we otherwise might receive if we were internally managed. Because these persons have competing demands on their time and resources, they may have conflicts of interest in allocating their time between our business and these other activities. If this occurs, the returns on our investments may suffer.

Previous wording

Our Advisor maintains a contractual as opposed to a fiduciary relationship with us. Our Advisor’s liability is limited under our Advisor Agreement, and we have agreed to indemnify our Advisor against certain liabilities.

Current wording

Our Advisor maintains a contractual as opposed to a fiduciary relationship with us. Our Advisor’s liability is limited under our Advisory Agreement, and we have agreed to indemnify our Advisor against certain liabilities.

Previous wording

The circumstances under which we can terminate our contract with the Advisor for cause are limited and do not include performance. Termination of our Advisory Agreement without cause would be difficult and costly. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated each year without cause upon the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of our independent directors, based upon a determination that (i) our Advisor’s performance is unsatisfactory and materially detrimental to us or (ii) the base management fee and annual incentive fee payable to our Advisory are not fair (provided that in this instance, our Advisor will be afforded the opportunity to renegotiate the management fee and incentive fees prior to termination). We are required to provide our Advisor with 180 days prior notice of any such termination. Additionally, upon such a termination, or if we materially breach the Advisory Agreement and our Advisor terminates our Advisory Agreement, the Advisory Agreement provides that we will pay our Advisor a termination fee equal to three times the sum of the average annual base management fee and the average annual incentive fee paid or payable to the Advisor during the 24-month period immediately preceding the most recently completed calendar quarter prior to the termination. These provisions increase the cost to us of terminating the Advisory Agreement and adversely affect our ability to terminate our Advisor without cause.

Current wording

The circumstances under which we can terminate our Advisory Agreement for cause are limited and do not include performance. Termination of our Advisory Agreement without cause would be difficult and costly. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated each year without cause upon the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of our independent directors, based upon a determination that (i) our Advisor’s performance is unsatisfactory and materially detrimental to us or (ii) the base management fee and annual incentive fee payable to our Advisor are not fair (provided that in this instance, our Advisor will be afforded the opportunity to renegotiate the management fee and incentive fees prior to termination). We are required to provide our Advisor with 180 days prior notice of any such termination. Additionally, upon such a termination, or if we materially breach the Advisory Agreement and our Advisor terminates our Advisory Agreement, the Advisory Agreement provides that we will pay our Advisor a termination fee equal to three times the sum of the average annual base management fee and the average annual incentive fee paid or payable to the Advisor during the 24-month period immediately preceding the most recently completed calendar quarter prior to the termination. These provisions increase the cost to us of terminating the Advisory Agreement and adversely affect our ability to terminate our Advisor without cause.

Previous wording

Public health crises have, and may in the future, adversely impact our business and the business of many of our borrowers.

Current wording

Public health crises have adversely impacted, and may in the future adversely impact, our business and the business of many of our borrowers.

Previous wording

Public health crises could have repercussions across domestic and global economies and financial markets. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many governmental authorities imposing significant restrictions on businesses and individuals that triggered economic consequences, including high unemployment, later, then high inflation, that resulted in challenging operating conditions for many businesses, particularly in the retail (including restaurants), office and hospitality sectors. These actions directly and indirectly adversely effected the financing markets as well and resulted in margin calls from our lenders, which we satisfied.

Current wording

Public health crises can have repercussions across domestic and global economies and financial markets. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many governmental authorities imposing significant restrictions on businesses and individuals that triggered economic consequences, including high unemployment, then high inflation, that resulted in challenging operating conditions for many businesses, particularly in the retail (including restaurants), office and hospitality sectors. These actions directly and indirectly adversely affected the financing markets and resulted in margin calls from our lenders, which we satisfied.

Previous wording

The extent to which pandemics and similar health crises impact our or our borrowers’ operations will depend on future developments which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, including the scope, severity and duration of the events, treatment developments and government responses to the events. The inability of our borrowers to meet their loan obligations and/or borrowers filing for bankruptcy protection as a result of these events would reduce our cash flows, which would impact our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders.

Current wording

The extent to which pandemics and similar health crises impact our or our borrowers’ operations will depend on future developments which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, including the scope, severity and duration of the crises, treatment developments and government responses to the events. The inability of our borrowers to meet their loan obligations and/or borrowers filing for bankruptcy protection as a result of these events would reduce our cash flows, which would impact our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders.

Previous wording

There are many factors that can affect the amount and timing of cash distributions to stockholders. The amount of cash available for distributions is affected by many factors, such as the cash provided by the Company's investments and obligations to repay indebtedness as well as many other variables. There is no assurance that the Company will be able to pay or maintain the current level of distributions or that distributions will increase over time. In certain prior periods, quarterly distributions have been in excess of our quarterly earnings. Distributions in excess of earnings will decrease the book value per share of common stock. The Company cannot give any assurance that returns from the investments will be sufficient to maintain or increase cash available for distributions to stockholders. Actual results may differ significantly from the assumptions used by the board of directors in establishing the distribution rate to stockholders. The Company may not have sufficient cash from operations to make a distribution required to qualify for or maintain our REIT status, which may materially adversely affect the value of our securities.

Current wording

There are many factors that can affect the amount and timing of cash distributions to stockholders. The amount of cash available for distributions is affected by many factors, such as the cash provided by the Company's investments and obligations to repay indebtedness as well as many other variables. There is no assurance that the Company will be able to pay or maintain the current level of distributions or that distributions will increase over time. In certain prior periods, quarterly distributions have been in excess of our quarterly earnings. Distributions in excess of earnings decrease the book value per share of common stock. The Company cannot give any assurance that returns from the investments will be sufficient to maintain or increase cash available for distributions to stockholders. Actual results may differ significantly from the assumptions used by the board of directors in establishing the distribution rate to stockholders. The Company may not have sufficient cash from operations to make a distribution required to qualify for or maintain our REIT status, which may materially adversely affect the value of our securities.

Previous wording

As reliance on technology in our industry has increased, so have the risks posed to the systems of our Advisor and other parties that provide us with services essential to our operations, both internal and outsourced. In addition, the risk of a cyber- incident, including by computer hackers, foreign governments and cyber terrorists, has generally increased as the number, intensity and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the world have increased. Even the most well protected information, networks, systems and facilities remain potentially vulnerable because the techniques used in such attempted attacks and intrusions evolve and generally are not recognized until launched against a target, and in some cases are designed not to be detected and, in fact, may not be detected.

Current wording

As reliance on technology in our industry has increased, so have the risks posed to the systems of our Advisor and other parties that provide us or the Advisor with services essential to our operations, both internal and outsourced. In addition, the risk of a cyber-incident, including by computer hackers, foreign governments and cyber terrorists, has generally increased as the number, intensity and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the world have increased. Even the most well protected information, networks, systems and facilities remain potentially vulnerable because the techniques used in such attempted attacks and intrusions evolve and generally are not recognized until launched against a target, and in some cases are designed not to be detected and, in fact, may not be detected.

Previous wording

Although the Advisor and other parties that provide us with services essential to our operations intend to continue to implement industry-standard security measures, there can be no assurance that those measures will be sufficient, and any material adverse effect experienced by the Advisor and other parties that provide us with services essential to our operations could, in turn, have an adverse impact on us.

Current wording

Although the Advisor and other parties that provide us with services essential to our operations intend to continue to implement industry-standard security measures, there can be no assurance that those measures will be sufficient. We and the Advisor continue to face ongoing and increasing cybersecurity risks which may materially affect us in the future and there can be no assurance that our or the Advisor’s cybersecurity efforts and measures will be effective or that attempted cybersecurity incidents or disruptions would not be successful or damaging. Any material adverse effect experienced by the Advisor and other parties that provide us with services essential to our operations could, in turn, have an adverse impact on us.