ARBOR REALTY TRUST INC

Previous wording

Our business is subject to various risks, including the risks listed below. If any of these risks occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected, and the value of our common stock could decline. The risk factors listed below should not be considered an all-inclusive list. New risk factors emerge periodically, and we cannot guarantee that the factors described below list all risks that may become material to us at any later time. Some of the risk factors discussed below may have different impacts on our Structured and Agency Businesses.

Current wording

The commercial real estate markets have experienced a prolonged dislocation due to inflation and high interest rates, which has resulted in decreased real estate values, increased delinquencies and defaults, and a disruption in the capital markets. This environment has had a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. If this environment persists, it is likely we will continue to experience an adverse impact on our business. The risks associated with these types of markets, and other risks related to our business, are described below. The risk factors listed below should not be considered an all-inclusive list. New risk factors emerge periodically, and we cannot guarantee that the factors described below list all risks that may become material to us at any later time. Some of the risk factors discussed below may have different impacts on our Structured and Agency Businesses. Additionally, you should review “Current Market Conditions, Risks and Recent Trends” located in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for a discussion of the current adverse market conditions that we are currently experiencing, and may continue to experience in the future, that are having an adverse impact on our business.

Previous wording

An economic slowdown, a lengthy or severe recession, declining real estate values, major bank failures or changes in interest rates could harm our operations, affect our ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms and have other adverse effects on us. If economic conditions deteriorate and/or we experience a turbulent economic environment, we will likely: (1) experience increases in loan loss reserves and other impairments; (2) encounter difficulty estimating loan loss reserves; and (3) experience a decline in loan repayments. If we are unable to invest excess capital on acceptable terms, or at all, it would likely result in a declining portfolio and would adversely affect the returns from our investments and our operating results.

Current wording

Risks Related to Our Business. An economic slowdown, a lengthy or severe recession, declining real estate values, or changes in short and/or long term interest rates could harm our operations, affect our ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms and have other adverse effects on us. If economic conditions deteriorate and/or we experience a turbulent economic environment, we will likely: (1) experience increases in loan loss reserves and other impairments; (2) encounter difficulty estimating loan loss reserves; and (3) experience an increase in loan delinquencies and loan modifications. If we are unable to invest excess capital on acceptable terms, or at all, it would likely result in a declining portfolio and would adversely affect the returns from our investments and our operating results.

Previous wording

Our business is subject to risk of loss in connection with defaults on loans, failed loan deliveries to GSEs and potential requirements to repurchase loans already sold to GSEs or other issuers of securitizations for a breach of representations or warranties. If we fail to act proactively with delinquent borrowers in an effort to avoid defaults, the number of delinquent loans could increase, which could have a material adverse effect on us.

Current wording

Our business is subject to risk of loss in connection with defaults on loans, failed loan deliveries to GSEs and potential requirements to repurchase loans already sold to GSEs or other issuers of securitizations for a breach of representations or warranties. If we fail to act proactively with delinquent borrowers in an effort to avoid defaults, the number of delinquent loans could increase, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

The changes and effects of government regulation, including the Investment Advisors Act and our exemption from the Investment Company Act, could negatively impact the market value of loans or increase our costs, which could materially and adversely affect our financial results.

Current wording

The changes and effects of government regulation, including the Investment Advisers Act and our exemption from the Investment Company Act, could negatively impact the market value of loans or increase our costs, which could materially and adversely affect our financial results.

Previous wording

General Risks. We are subject to certain general risks, all of which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, such as: (1) volatility in our stock price; (2) losses of key personnel with long standing business relationships; (3) adverse resolutions of lawsuits; (4) future terrorist attacks; (5) military conflict; and (6) changes to laws and regulations, including environmental, social and governance matters.

Current wording

General Risks. We are subject to certain general risks, all of which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, such as: (1) volatility in our stock price; (2) major public health crisis; (3) global economic and political conditions; (4) major bank failures; (5) losses of key personnel with long standing business relationships; (6) adverse resolutions of lawsuits; (7) terrorist attacks; (8) military conflict; (9) changes to laws and regulations, including environmental, social and governance matters; and (10) the effective development of artificial intelligence ("AI").

Previous wording

The risks associated with our business are more severe during periods of economic downturn, particularly if accompanied by declining real estate values. Declining real estate values limit our new mortgage loan originations, since borrowers often use increases in the value of their properties to support the purchase of additional properties and significantly increase the likelihood that we will incur losses on defaulted loans because the value of our collateral may be insufficient to repay the loan in full. Borrowers may also be less able to pay principal and interest on our loans if the economy weakens. Any sustained period of increased payment delinquencies, foreclosures and resulting losses could adversely affect our net interest income as well as our ability to originate, sell and securitize loans, which could significantly harm our results of operations, financial condition, business prospects and our ability to make distributions to stockholders.

Current wording

The risks associated with our business are more severe during periods of economic downturn, particularly if accompanied by declining real estate values. Declining real estate values limit our new mortgage loan originations, since borrowers often use increases in the value of their properties to support the purchase of additional properties and significantly increase the likelihood that we will incur losses on defaulted loans because the value of our collateral may be insufficient to repay the loan in full. Borrowers may also be less able to pay principal and interest on our loans if the economy weakens. Any sustained period of increased payment delinquencies, foreclosures and resulting losses could adversely affect our net interest income as well as our ability to originate, sell and securitize loans, which could significantly harm our results of operations, financial condition, business and our ability to make distributions to stockholders.

Previous wording

Commercial real estate can be adversely affected by a lack of liquidity caused by a prolonged economic downturn, which may limit our ability to raise equity or debt in the capital markets or obtain other financing on favorable terms. If we do issue equity, it may be dilutive to our existing stockholders or could result in the issuance of securities that have rights, preferences and privileges that are senior to those of our existing securities. If economic or market conditions deteriorate, lending institutions may choose to exit markets such as repurchase lending, become insolvent, further tighten their lending standards or increase the amount of equity capital required to obtain financing, and such events could make it more difficult for us to obtain financing on favorable terms or at all, in which event our profitability will be adversely affected. These factors may also make it more difficult for our borrowers to repay our loans as they may experience difficulties in selling assets, obtaining other financing or realize increased costs of financing. Disruptions in the financial markets also may have a material adverse effect on the market value of our common stock.

Current wording

Commercial real estate can be adversely affected by a lack of liquidity caused by a prolonged economic downturn, which may limit our ability to raise equity or debt in the capital markets or obtain financing on favorable terms, if at all. If we do issue equity, it may be dilutive to our existing stockholders or could result in the issuance of securities that have rights, preferences and privileges that are senior to those of our existing securities. If economic or market conditions deteriorate, lending institutions may choose to exit markets such as repurchase lending, become insolvent, further tighten their lending standards or increase the amount of equity capital required to obtain financing, and such events could make it more difficult for us to obtain financing on favorable terms or at all, in which event our profitability will be adversely affected. These factors may also make it more difficult for our borrowers to repay our loans as they may experience difficulties in selling assets, obtaining other financing or realize increased costs of financing. Disruptions in the financial markets also may have a material adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

Previous wording

Changes in interest rates could have an adverse effect on our net investment income.

Current wording

Changes in interest rates could have an adverse effect on our operating results, financial condition, business prospects and our ability to make distributions to stockholders.

Previous wording

Currently, the Agency Business originates a significant portion of its loans for sale through GSE and HUD programs. The Agency Business is approved as a Fannie Mae DUS lender nationwide, a Freddie Mac Program Plus lender in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, a Freddie Mac Targeted Affordable Housing, Manufactured Housing Community, Seniors Housing and SBL lender nationwide, a HUD MAP and LEAN lender nationwide, and a Ginnie Mae issuer. Our status as an approved lender affords us a number of advantages but may be terminated by the applicable GSE or HUD at any time. The loss of such status would, or changes in our relationships could, prevent us from being able to originate real estate loans for sale through the particular GSE or HUD, which would materially and adversely affect us. It could also result in a loss of similar approvals from other GSEs or HUD.

Current wording

Currently, the Agency Business originates a significant portion of its loans for sale through GSE and HUD programs. The Agency Business is approved as a Fannie Mae DUS lender nationwide, a Freddie Mac Optigo®Conventional Loan and SBL lender nationwide, a HUD MAP and LEAN lender nationwide, and a Ginnie Mae issuer. Our status as an approved lender affords us a number of advantages but may be terminated by the applicable GSE or HUD at any time. The loss of such status would, or changes in our relationships could, prevent us from being able to originate real estate loans for sale through the particular GSE or HUD, which would materially and adversely affect us. It could also result in a loss of similar approvals from other GSEs or HUD.

Previous wording

Under the Fannie Mae DUS program, our Agency Business originates and services multifamily loans for Fannie Mae without needing Fannie Mae’s prior approval, as long as the loans meet the underwriting guidelines set forth by Fannie Mae. In return for such delegated authority and the commitment to purchase loans by Fannie Mae, we are required to share risk of loss on loans sold through Fannie Mae and we must provide collateral to Fannie Mae to secure any potential losses. Under the full risk-sharing formula, we absorb the first 5% of any losses on the UPB of a loan at the time of loss settlement, and above 5% we share the loss with Fannie Mae, with our maximum loss capped at 20% of the original UPB of a loan. Our Agency Business has modified its risk-sharing obligations on some Fannie Mae DUS loans to reduce potential loss exposure on those loans. In addition, Fannie Mae can increase our risk-sharing obligations if the loan does not meet specific underwriting criteria or if the loan defaults within 12 months of its sale to Fannie Mae. At December 31, 2023, the Agency Business had pledged $76.2 million in restricted liquidity as collateral against future losses under $21.26 billion of loans outstanding that are subject to risk-sharing obligations. Fannie Mae collateral requirements may change in the future. At December 31, 2023, the Agency Business’s allowance for loss-sharing balance was $71.6 million, which may not be sufficient to cover future loss sharing obligations. While our Agency Business originates loans that meet the underwriting guidelines defined by Fannie Mae, in addition to our own internal underwriting guidelines, underwriting criteria may not always protect against loan defaults. Other factors can lead to a to default on a loan, such as a decline in property value, cash flow, occupancy, maintenance needs and other financing obligations. If loan defaults increase, our risk-sharing obligation payments under the Fannie Mae DUS program may increase which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and liquidity. In addition, any failure to pay our share of losses under the Fannie Mae DUS program could result in the revocation of our Fannie Mae license and in the exercise of various remedies available to Fannie Mae under the Fannie Mae DUS program, including the transfer of our servicing portfolio to another Fannie Mae approved servicer.

Current wording

Under the Fannie Mae DUS program, our Agency Business originates and services multifamily loans for Fannie Mae without needing Fannie Mae’s prior approval, as long as the loans meet the underwriting guidelines set forth by Fannie Mae. In return for such delegated authority and the commitment to purchase loans by Fannie Mae, we are required to share risk of loss on loans sold through Fannie Mae and we must provide collateral to Fannie Mae to secure any potential losses. Under the full risk-sharing formula, we absorb the first 5% of any losses on the UPB of a loan at the time of loss settlement, and above 5% we share the loss with Fannie Mae, with our maximum loss capped at 20% of the original UPB of a loan. Our Agency Business has modified its risk-sharing obligations on some Fannie Mae DUS loans to reduce potential loss exposure on those loans. In addition, Fannie Mae can increase our risk-sharing obligations if the loan does not meet specific underwriting criteria or if the loan defaults within 12 months of its sale to Fannie Mae. At December 31, 2024, the Agency Business had pledged $91.5 million in restricted liquidity as collateral against future losses under $22.73 billion of loans outstanding that are subject to risk-sharing obligations. Fannie Mae collateral requirements may change in the future. At December 31, 2024, the Agency Business’s allowance for loss-sharing balance was $83.2 million, which may not be sufficient to cover future loss sharing obligations. While our Agency Business originates loans that meet the underwriting guidelines defined by Fannie Mae, in addition to our own internal underwriting guidelines, underwriting criteria may not always protect against loan defaults. Other factors can lead to a default on a loan, such as a decline in property value, cash flow, occupancy, maintenance needs and other financing obligations. If loan defaults increase, our risk-sharing obligation payments under the Fannie Mae DUS program may increase which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and liquidity. In addition, any failure to pay our share of losses under the Fannie Mae DUS program could result in the revocation of our Fannie Mae license and in the exercise of various remedies available to Fannie Mae under the Fannie Mae DUS program, including the transfer of our servicing portfolio to another Fannie Mae approved servicer.

Previous wording

Our Agency Business is required to pledge restricted cash as collateral for our loss sharing obligations. At December 31, 2023, this requirement totaled $76.2 million and was satisfied with a $64.0 million letter of credit and cash issued to Fannie Mae. Our current letter of credit facility expires in September 2025. The facility is collateralized by the cash flow generated from the Agency Business’s Fannie Mae servicing portfolio and contains certain financial and other covenants. If we were to default on the letter of credit facility, or we are unable to renew or replace this facility on favorable terms, or at all, it could have a material adverse effect on our cash flow and our financial condition. If we were unable to replace the letter of credit facility with either a similar facility or cash, we would be in breach of our obligations to Fannie Mae, which would have a material adverse effect on our business and operations.

Current wording

Our Agency Business is required to pledge restricted cash as collateral for our loss sharing obligations. At December 31, 2024, this requirement totaled $91.5 million and was satisfied with a $70.0 million letter of credit and cash issued to Fannie Mae. Our current letter of credit facility expires in September 2025. The facility is collateralized by the cash flow generated from the Agency Business’s Fannie Mae servicing portfolio and contains certain financial and other covenants. If we were to default on the letter of credit facility, or we are unable to renew or replace this facility on favorable terms, or at all, it could have a material adverse effect on our cash flow and our financial condition. If we were unable to replace the letter of credit facility with either a similar facility or cash, we would be in breach of our obligations to Fannie Mae, which would have a material adverse effect on our business and operations.

Previous wording

As a loan servicer for GSEs and HUD, we are the primary contact with the borrower throughout the life of the loan and under our servicing agreements, we are responsible for asset management, including actions to mitigate losses. We believe we have developed an effective asset management process for tracking each loan we service. However, we may be unsuccessful in identifying loans that are in danger of underperforming or defaulting or in taking appropriate action once those loans are identified. While we can make recommendations, decisions regarding loss mitigation are within the control of the GSEs, HUD and institutional investors. When loans become delinquent, we may incur additional expenses in servicing and asset managing the loans and we are required to advance principal and interest payments and tax and insurance escrow amounts. Our Agency Business could also be subject to a loss of its contractual servicing fee, and for its loss sharing obligations to Fannie Mae. These events could have a negative impact on our cash flows and on the net carrying value of the MSRs on our balance sheet and could result in a charge to our earnings. As a result of the foregoing, a rise in delinquencies could have a material adverse effect on our Agency Business.

Current wording

As a loan servicer for GSEs and HUD, we are the primary contact with the borrower throughout the life of the loan and under our servicing agreements, we are responsible for asset management, including actions to mitigate losses. We believe we have developed an effective asset management process for tracking each loan we service. However, we may be unsuccessful in identifying loans that are in danger of underperforming or defaulting or in taking appropriate action once those loans are identified. While we can make recommendations, decisions regarding loss mitigation are within the control of the GSEs, HUD and institutional investors. When loans become delinquent, we may incur additional expenses in servicing and asset managing the loans and we are required to advance principal and interest payments and tax and insurance escrow amounts. Our Agency Business could also be subject to a loss of its contractual servicing fee, and for its loss sharing obligations to Fannie Mae. These events could have a negative impact on our cash flows and on the net carrying value of the MSRs on our balance sheet and could result in a reduction to our earnings. As a result of the foregoing, a rise in delinquencies could have a material adverse effect on our Agency Business.

Previous wording

We expect that loan servicing fees will continue to represent a significant portion of our Agency Business’ revenues. These fees are primarily derived from loans that have been originated by us and sold through GSE and HUD programs. A decline in the number or value of loans that the Agency Business originates for these investors or terminations of its servicing engagements will decrease these fees. HUD has the right to terminate our current servicing engagements for cause. In addition to termination for cause, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may terminate our servicing engagements without cause by paying a termination fee, which may not compensate us fully for the loss of the future servicing revenue. The Agency Business is also subject to losses that may arise as a result of servicing errors, such as a failure to maintain insurance, pay taxes or provide required notices. If we fail to perform, or we breach our servicing obligations to the GSEs or HUD, our servicing engagements may be terminated. Declines in or terminations of servicing engagements or breaches of such obligations could materially and adversely affect our financial results.

Current wording

We expect that loan servicing fees will continue to represent a significant portion of our Agency Business’ revenues. These fees are primarily derived from loans that have been originated by us and sold through the GSE and HUD programs. A decline in the number or value of loans that the Agency Business originates for these investors or terminations of its servicing engagements will decrease these fees. HUD has the right to terminate our current servicing engagements for cause. In addition to termination for cause, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may terminate our servicing engagements without cause by paying a termination fee, which may not compensate us fully for the loss of the future servicing revenue. The Agency Business is also subject to losses that may arise as a result of servicing errors, such as a failure to maintain insurance, pay taxes or provide required notices. If we fail to perform our servicing obligations, or we breach our servicing obligations to the GSEs or HUD, our servicing engagements may be terminated. Declines in or terminations of servicing engagements or breaches of such obligations could materially and adversely affect our financial results.

Previous wording

We must make certain representations and warranties concerning each loan we originate for GSE or HUD programs. The representations and warranties relate to our practices in the origination and servicing of the loans and the accuracy of the information being provided by us. For example, we are generally required to provide the following, among other, representations and warranties: we are authorized to do business and to sell or assign the loan; the loan conforms to the requirements of the GSEs or HUD and certain laws and regulations; the underlying mortgage represents a valid first lien on the property and there are no other liens on the property; the loan documents are valid and enforceable; taxes, assessments, insurance premiums, rents and similar other payments have been paid or escrowed; the property is insured, conforms to zoning laws and remains intact; and we do not know of any issues regarding the loan that are reasonably expected to cause the loan to be delinquent or unacceptable for investment or adversely affect its value.

Current wording

We must make certain representations and warranties concerning each loan we originate for the GSE or HUD programs. The representations and warranties relate to our practices in the origination and servicing of the loans and the accuracy of the information being provided by us. For example, we are generally required to provide the following, among other, representations and warranties: we are authorized to do business and to sell or assign the loan; the loan conforms to the requirements of the GSEs or HUD and certain laws and regulations; the underlying mortgage represents a valid first lien on the property and there are no other liens on the property; the loan documents are valid and enforceable; taxes, assessments, insurance premiums, rents and similar other payments have been paid or escrowed; the property is insured, conforms to zoning laws and remains intact; and we do not know of any issues regarding the loan that are reasonably expected to cause the loan to be delinquent or unacceptable for investment or adversely affect its value.

Previous wording

We finance our Structured Business loans and investments through a variety of means, including CLOs, securitizations, credit facilities, equity capital, senior and convertible debt instruments, and other structured financings. We finance our Agency Business loan originations, prior to sale to, or securitization by, an agency, through credit facilities provided by commercial banks. Our access to these sources of funding can be impacted by conditions in the financing markets that are beyond our control, including lack of liquidity and wider credit spreads, which we have experienced in the past. If these conditions deteriorate, there can be no assurance that any existing agreements will be renewed or extended at expiration and alternative sources of financing may not be available or may not accommodate our needs. This could subject us to an increase in our recourse indebtedness and the risk that debt service on less efficient forms of financing would require a larger portion of our cash flows, thereby reducing cash available for distribution to our stockholders, funds available for operations as well as for future business opportunities.

Current wording

We finance our Structured Business loans and investments through a variety of means, including CLOs, securitizations, credit facilities, equity capital, and senior and convertible debt instruments. We finance our Agency Business loan originations, prior to sale to, or securitization by, an agency, through credit facilities provided by commercial banks. Our access to these sources of funding can be impacted by conditions in the financing markets that are beyond our control, including lack of liquidity and wider credit spreads, which we have experienced in the past. If these conditions deteriorate, there can be no assurance that any existing agreements will be renewed or extended at expiration and alternative sources of financing may not be available or may not accommodate our needs. This could subject us to an increase in our recourse indebtedness and the risk that debt service on less efficient forms of financing would require a larger portion of our cash flows, thereby reducing cash available for distribution to our stockholders, funds available for operations as well as for future business opportunities.

Previous wording

Our credit and repurchase facilities and unsecured debt (senior and convertible notes) contain restrictive covenants relating to our operations.

Current wording

Our credit and repurchase facilities and unsecured debt contain restrictive covenants relating to our operations.

Previous wording

We may not be able to find suitable replacement investments for CLO reinvestment periods.

Current wording

We may not be able to find suitable replacement investments during CLO reinvestment periods.

Previous wording

Through our Private Label platform we engage in securitization transactions relating to real estate mortgage loans that expose us to potentially material risks.

Current wording

Through our Private Label platform we engage in securitization transactions relating to real estate mortgage loans that expose us to potential material risks.

Previous wording

One of our subsidiaries is required to register under the Investment Advisors Act, and is subject to regulation under that Act.

Current wording

One of our subsidiaries is required to register under the Investment Advisers Act, and is subject to regulation under that Act.

Previous wording

One of our subsidiaries is subject to the extensive regulation prescribed by the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the “Advisors Act”). The SEC oversees our activities as a registered investment adviser under this regulatory regime. A failure to comply with the obligations imposed by the Advisers Act, including recordkeeping, advertising, operating requirements, disclosure obligations and prohibitions on fraudulent activities, could result in fines, censure, suspensions of personnel or investing activities or other sanctions, including revocation of our registration as an investment adviser. The regulations under the Advisers Act are designed to protect investors and other clients, and are not designed to protect holders of our publicly traded stock. Even if a sanction imposed against our subsidiary or its personnel involves a small monetary amount, the adverse publicity related to such sanction could harm our reputation and our relationship with our investors and impede our ability to raise additional capital. In addition, compliance with the Advisors Act may require us to incur additional costs, and these costs may be material.

Current wording

One of our subsidiaries is subject to the extensive regulation prescribed by the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the “Advisers Act”). The SEC oversees our activities as a registered investment adviser under this regulatory regime. A failure to comply with the obligations imposed by the Advisers Act, including recordkeeping, advertising, operating requirements, disclosure obligations and prohibitions on fraudulent activities, could result in fines, censure, suspensions of personnel or investing activities or other sanctions, including revocation of our registration as an investment adviser. The regulations under the Advisers Act are designed to protect investors and other clients, and are not designed to protect holders of our publicly traded stock. Even if a sanction imposed against our subsidiary or its personnel involves a small monetary amount, the adverse publicity related to such sanction could harm our reputation and our relationship with our investors and impede our ability to raise additional capital. In addition, compliance with the Advisers Act may require us to incur additional costs, and these costs may be material.

Previous wording

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA,”) the GSEs’ regulator, placed each GSE into conservatorship in 2008. The conservatorship is a statutory process designed to preserve and conserve the GSEs’ assets and property and put them in a sound and solvent condition. The conservatorships have no specified termination dates and there continues to be significant uncertainty regarding the future of the GSEs, including how long they will continue to exist in their current forms, the extent of their roles in the housing markets and whether they will continue to exist following conservatorship. In 2014, the FHFA released its strategic plan for the GSEs, in which it changed its goal of “contraction” of the GSEs’ multifamily businesses to “maintaining” the businesses.

Current wording

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”), the GSEs’ regulator, placed each GSE into conservatorship in 2008. The conservatorship is a statutory process designed to preserve and conserve the GSEs’ assets and property and put them in a sound and solvent condition. The conservatorships have no specified termination dates and there continues to be significant uncertainty regarding the future of the GSEs, including how long they will continue to exist in their current forms, the extent of their roles in the housing markets and whether they will continue to exist following conservatorship.

Previous wording

In the past, federal legislation has been proposed to reform the housing finance system, including the GSEs. Several of the bills require the wind down or receivership of the GSEs within a specified period of enactment and place certain restrictions on the GSEs’ activities prior to being wound down or placed into receivership. It is unclear at this time what the Biden administration’s views are with respect to the future of the GSEs.

Current wording

In the past, federal legislation has been proposed to reform the housing finance system, including the GSEs. Several of the bills require the wind down or receivership of the GSEs within a specified period of enactment and place certain restrictions on the GSEs’ activities prior to being wound down or placed into receivership. The Trump Administration has made recent comments indicating that housing finance reform may be on its agenda, however, it is unclear at this time what the Trump Administration’s views are with respect to the future of the GSEs.

Previous wording

FHFA set its 2024 loan origination caps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac at $70 billion for each enterprise for a total opportunity of $140 billion (the “2024 Caps”), which is a decrease from its 2023 Caps of $75 billion for each enterprise. FHFA stated they will continue to monitor the market and reserves the right to increase the 2024 Caps if warranted, however, they will not reduce the 2024 Caps if the market is smaller than initially projected. To promote affordable housing preservation, loans classified as supporting workforce housing properties will be exempt from the 2024 Caps. Workforce housing loans preserve rents at affordable levels in multifamily properties, typically without the use of public subsidies. The 2024 Caps will continue to mandate that at least 50% be directed towards mission driven, affordable housing, with affordability levels corresponding to 80%-120% of area median income, depending on the market. Our originations with the GSEs are highly profitable executions as they provide significant gains from the sale of our loans, non-cash gains related to MSRs and servicing revenues. Therefore, a decline in our GSE originations could negatively impact our financial results. We are unsure whether FHFA will impose stricter limitations on GSE multifamily production volume in the future.

Current wording

FHFA set its 2025 loan origination caps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac at $73 billion for each enterprise for a total opportunity of $146 billion (the “2025 Caps”), which is an increase from its 2024 Caps of $70 billion for each enterprise. FHFA stated they will continue to monitor the market and reserves the right to increase the 2025 Caps if warranted, however, they will not reduce the 2025 Caps if the market is smaller than initially projected. To promote affordable housing preservation, loans classified as supporting workforce housing properties will be exempt from the 2025 Caps. Workforce housing loans preserve rents at affordable levels in multifamily properties, typically without the use of public subsidies. The 2025 Caps will continue to mandate that at least 50% be directed towards mission driven, affordable housing, with affordability levels corresponding to 80%-120% of area median income, depending on the market. Our originations with the GSEs are highly profitable executions as they provide significant gains from the sale of our loans, non-cash gains related to MSRs and servicing revenues. Therefore, a decline in our GSE originations could negatively impact our financial results. We are unsure whether FHFA will impose stricter limitations on GSE multifamily production volume in the future.

Previous wording

Cybersecurity incidents and cyberattacks, which include malicious software, ransomware or terrorists attacks, unauthorized attempts to gain access to sensitive, confidential or otherwise protected information related to us and our customers, have been occurring globally at a more frequent and severe level and are expected to continue to increase in frequency and severity in the future. In the course of our business, we gather, transmit and retain confidential information through our information systems. Although we endeavor to protect confidential information through the implementation of security technologies, processes and procedures, it is possible that an individual or group could penetrate our security systems and access sensitive information about our business, borrowers and employees. Any misappropriation, loss or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information gathered, stored or used by us could have a material impact on the operation of our business, including damaging our reputation with our borrowers, employees, third parties and investors. We could also incur significant costs in implementing additional security measures and organizational changes, implementing additional protection technologies, training employees or engaging consultants. In addition, we could become subject to litigation from any cybersecurity breach. We have not experienced any material misappropriation, loss or unauthorized disclosure of confidential or personally identifiable information as a result of a cybersecurity breach or other act, however, a cybersecurity breach or other act and/or disruption to our information technology systems could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Cybersecurity incidents and cyberattacks, which include malicious software, ransomware or terrorists attacks, unauthorized attempts to gain access to sensitive, confidential or otherwise protected information related to us and our customers, have been occurring globally at a more frequent and severe level and are expected to continue to increase in frequency and severity in the future. In the course of our business, we gather, transmit and retain confidential information through our information systems. Although we endeavor to protect confidential information through the implementation of security technologies, processes and procedures, it is possible that an individual or group could penetrate our security systems and access sensitive information about our business, borrowers and employees. Any misappropriation, loss or unauthorized disclosure of confidential information gathered, stored or used by us could have a material impact on the operation of our business, including damaging our reputation with our borrowers, employees, third parties and investors. We could also incur significant costs in implementing additional security measures and organizational changes, implementing additional protection technologies, training employees or engaging consultants. In addition, we could become subject to litigation from any cybersecurity breach. We have not experienced any material misappropriation, loss or unauthorized disclosure of confidential or personally identifiable information as a result of a cybersecurity breach or other act, however, a cybersecurity breach or other act and/or disruption to our information technology systems could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Our Board of Directors is divided into three classes of directors. The current terms of the Class III, Class I and Class II directors will expire in 2024, 2025 and 2026, respectively. Directors of each class are chosen for three-year terms upon the expiration of their current terms, and each year one class of directors is elected by the stockholders. The staggered terms of our directors may reduce the possibility of a tender offer or an attempt at a change in control, even though a tender offer or change in control might be in the best interest of our stockholders. In addition, our charter and bylaws also contain other provisions that may delay or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might involve a premium price for our common stock or otherwise be in the best interest of our stockholders.

Current wording

Our Board of Directors is divided into three classes of directors. The current terms of the Class I, Class II and Class III directors will expire in 2025, 2026 and 2027, respectively. Directors of each class are chosen for three-year terms upon the expiration of their current terms, and each year one class of directors is elected by the stockholders. The staggered terms of our directors may reduce the possibility of a tender offer or an attempt at a change in control, even though a tender offer or change in control might be in the best interest of our stockholders. In addition, our charter and bylaws also contain other provisions that may delay or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might involve a premium price for our common stock or otherwise be in the best interest of our stockholders.

Previous wording

As a REIT, we are generally required to distribute at least 90% of our REIT-taxable income each year to our stockholders. In order to qualify for the tax benefits afforded to REITs, we intend to declare quarterly dividends and to make distributions to our stockholders in amounts such that we distribute all or substantially all of our REIT-taxable income each year, subject to certain adjustments. However, our ability to make distributions may be adversely affected by the risk factors described in this report. In the event of a future downturn in our operating results and financial performance or unanticipated declines in the value of our asset portfolio, we may be unable to declare or pay quarterly dividends. The timing and amount of dividends are in the sole discretion of our Board of Directors, which considers, among other factors, our earnings, financial condition, debt service obligations and applicable debt covenants, REIT qualification requirements and other tax considerations and capital expenditure requirements as our board may deem relevant.

Current wording

As a REIT, we are generally required to distribute at least 90% of our taxable income each year to our stockholders. In order to qualify for the tax benefits afforded to REITs, we intend to declare quarterly dividends and to make distributions to our stockholders in amounts such that we distribute all or substantially all of our taxable income each year, subject to certain adjustments. However, our ability to make distributions may be adversely affected by the risk factors described in this report. In the event of a future downturn in our operating results and financial performance or unanticipated declines in the value of our asset portfolio, we may be unable to declare or pay quarterly dividends. The timing and amount of dividends are in the sole discretion of our Board of Directors, which considers, among other factors, our earnings, financial condition, debt service obligations and applicable debt covenants, REIT qualification requirements and other tax considerations and capital expenditure requirements as our board may deem relevant.

Previous wording

A change in any one of these factors could affect our ability to make distributions. If we are not able to comply with the restrictive covenants and financial ratios contained in future credit facilities, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders may also be impaired. We cannot assure that we will be able to make distributions to our stockholders in the future or that the level of any distributions we make will increase over time.

Current wording

A change in any one of these factors could affect our ability to make distributions. If we are not able to comply with the restrictive covenants and financial ratios contained in credit and repurchase facilities and unsecured debt, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders may also be impaired. We cannot assure that we will be able to make distributions to our stockholders in the future or that the level of any distributions we make will increase over time.

Previous wording

To qualify as a REIT, we must generally, among other requirements, distribute at least 90% of our REIT-taxable income, subject to certain adjustments, to our stockholders each year. To the extent that we satisfy the distribution requirement, but distribute less than 100% of our taxable income, we will be subject to federal corporate income tax on our undistributed taxable income. In addition, we will be subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax if the actual amount that we pay out to our stockholders in a calendar year is less than a minimum amount specified under federal tax laws.

Current wording

To qualify as a REIT, we must generally, among other requirements, distribute at least 90% of our taxable income, subject to certain adjustments, to our stockholders each year. To the extent that we satisfy the distribution requirement, but distribute less than 100% of our taxable income, we will be subject to federal corporate income tax on our undistributed taxable income. In addition, we will be subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax if the actual amount that we pay out to our stockholders in a calendar year is less than a minimum amount specified under federal tax laws.

Previous wording

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (“IRA”) enacted in August 2022 introduced various new provisions to the Internal Revenue Code. Among those new provisions affecting corporations include the corporate book minimum tax and an excise tax on net stock repurchases effective January 1, 2023. As REITs, we and our subsidiary, ARSR are exempt from these provisions. While such provisions may be applicable to our TRSs, we currently do not expect the IRA to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Current wording

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (“IRA”) enacted in August 2022 introduced various new provisions to the Internal Revenue Code. Among those new provisions affecting corporations include the corporate book minimum tax and an excise tax on net stock repurchases effective January 1, 2023. As REITs, we and our subsidiary, ARSR are exempt from these provisions. While such provisions may be applicable to our TRSs, as of the date of this Annual Report, we do not expect the IRA to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Previous wording

The trading price of our common stock may be highly volatile and could be subject to a number of factors beyond our control, including (1) the general reputation of REITs and the attractiveness of our equity securities in comparison to other equity securities, including securities issued by other real estate-based companies, (2) our financial performance, (3) coordinated buying and selling activity by market participants, including market manipulation and short-seller reports, (4) publication of information in the media, including online blog and social media about our Company by third parties, and (5) general stock and bond market conditions.

Current wording

The trading price of our common stock may be highly volatile and could be subject to a number of factors beyond our control, including: (1) the general reputation of REITs and the attractiveness of our equity securities in comparison to other equity securities, including securities issued by other real estate-based companies; (2) our financial performance; (3) coordinated buying and selling activity by market participants, including market manipulation and short-seller reports; (4) publication of information in the media, including online blog and social media about our Company by third parties; and (5) general market conditions.

Previous wording

Companies that experience volatility in the market price of their stock may be subject to securities class action litigation. We may be the target of this type of litigation in the future. Securities litigation against us could result in substantial costs and divert management’s attention from other business concerns, which could also harm our business.

Current wording

Companies that experience volatility in the market price of their stock may be subject to securities class action litigation. We are currently the target of this type of litigation as described in Note 15. Securities litigation against us could result in substantial costs and divert management’s attention from other business concerns, which could also harm our business.

Previous wording

The COVID-19 pandemic caused severe disruptions to the U.S. and global economies and to our business and may continue to have an adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

A major public health crisis, including a pandemic, could cause severe disruptions to the U.S. and global economies and to our business and may have an adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

◦an increase in payment delinquencies from our borrowers resulting in additional credit losses; and

Current wording

•increases in payment delinquencies from our borrowers resulting in additional credit losses;

Previous wording

◦an increase in the cost to obtain financing and other adverse effects of obtaining financing under terms and conditions that are less favorable to us, and if conditions worsen, could prevent us from obtaining financing at all;

Current wording

•increases in the cost to obtain financing and other adverse effects of obtaining financing under terms and conditions that are less favorable to us, and if conditions worsen, could prevent us from obtaining financing at all;

Previous wording

•In the event of any forced sales of the securities and other assets that secure our repurchase and other financing arrangements, such sales may be on terms less favorable to us than might otherwise be available under normal conditions, which could result in losses;

Current wording

•in the event of any forced sales of the securities and other assets that secure our credit and other financing arrangements, such sales may be on terms less favorable to us than might otherwise be available under normal conditions, which could result in losses;

Previous wording

•Disruptions in the credit markets have had, and may continue to have, a negative impact on our ability to execute on securitizations, which may have an adverse effect on our liquidity and results of operations; and

Current wording

•disruptions in the credit markets causing a negative impact on our ability to execute on securitizations, which may have an adverse effect on our liquidity and results of operations; and

Previous wording

•To the extent conditions worsen, there may be a materially negative effect on our results of operations, and, in turn, on cash available for distribution to our stockholders, on the value of our assets and on the market price of our common stock.

Current wording

•material negative effect on our results of operations, and, in turn, on cash available for distribution to our stockholders, on the value of our assets and on the market price of our common stock.

Previous wording

Our future success depends, to a significant extent, on our ability to hire and retain a sufficient number of qualified personnel, including our executive officers. The nature of our executive officers’ experience and the extent of the relationships they have developed with owners of multifamily and commercial properties and financial institutions are important to our success. We cannot assure their continued employment as our officers. The loss of services of certain of our executive officers could harm our business and prospects.

Current wording

Our future success depends, to a significant extent, on our ability to hire and retain a sufficient number of qualified personnel, including our executive officers. The nature of our executive officers’ experience and the extent of the relationships they have developed with owners of multifamily and commercial properties and financial institutions are important to our success. We cannot assure their continued employment as our officers. The loss of services of certain of our executive officers could harm our business.

Previous wording

The impact of any future terrorist attacks and the availability of terrorism insurance expose us to certain risks.

Current wording

The impact of any terrorist attacks and the availability of terrorism insurance expose us to certain risks.

Previous wording

Any future terrorist attacks, the anticipation of any such attacks, and the consequences of any military or other response by the U.S. and its allies may have an adverse impact on the U.S. financial markets, real estate markets and/or the economy in general. We cannot predict the effect that any such future events would have on our business or the credit quality of our loans and investments.

Current wording

Any terrorist attacks, the anticipation of any such attacks, and the consequences of any military or other response by the U.S. and its allies may have an adverse impact on the U.S. financial markets, real estate markets and/or the economy in general. We cannot predict the effect that any such events would have on our business or the credit quality of our loans and investments.