Crescent Capital BDC, Inc.: Form 10-Q for the period ended Sep 30, 2023

The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this report. This discussion also should be read in conjunction with the “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements” set forth on page 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. In this report, “we,” “us,” “our” and “Company” refer to Crescent Capital BDC, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

OVERVIEW

We are a specialty finance company focused on lending to middle-market companies. We are incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland. We were listed and began trading on the NASDAQ stock exchange on February 3, 2020. We have elected to be treated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”). In addition, we have elected to be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a regulated investment company (a “RIC”) under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”). As such, we are required to comply with various regulatory requirements, such as the requirement to invest at least 70% of our assets in “qualifying assets,” source of income limitations, asset diversification requirements, and the requirement to distribute annually at least 90% of our taxable income and tax-exempt interest.

We are managed by Crescent Cap Advisors, LLC (the “Adviser”), an investment adviser that is registered with the SEC under the 1940 Act. CCAP Administration, LLC (the “Administrator”), provides the administrative services necessary for us to operate. Our management consists of investment and administrative professionals from the Adviser and Administrator along with our Board. The Adviser directs and executes our investment operations and capital raising activities subject to oversight from the Board, which sets our broad policies. The Board has delegated investment management of our investment assets to the Adviser. The Board consists of six directors, five of whom are independent.

Our investment objective is to maximize the total return to our stockholders in the form of current income and capital appreciation through debt and related equity investments. We invest primarily in secured debt (including first lien, unitranche first lien and second-lien debt) and unsecured debt (including mezzanine and subordinated debt), as well as related equity securities of private U.S. middle-market companies. We may purchase interests in loans or make debt investments, either (i) directly from our target companies as primary market or private credit investments (i.e., private credit transactions), or (ii) primary or secondary market bank loan or high yield transactions in the broadly syndicated “over-the-counter” market (i.e., broadly syndicated loans and bonds). Although our focus is to invest in less liquid private credit transactions, we may from time to time invest in more liquid broadly syndicated loans to complement our private credit transactions.

“First lien” investments are senior loans on a lien basis to other liabilities in the issuer’s capital structure that have the benefit of a first-priority security interest in assets of the issuer. The security interest ranks above the security interest of any second-lien lenders in those assets.

“Unitranche first lien” investments are loans that may extend deeper in a company’s capital structure than traditional first lien debt and may provide for a waterfall of cash flow priority among different lenders in the unitranche loan. In certain instances, we may find another lender to provide the “first out” portion of such loan and retain the “last out” portion of such loan, in which case, the “first out” portion of the loan would generally receive priority with respect to payment of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder over the “last out” portion that we would continue to hold. In exchange for the greater risk of loss, the “last out” portion earns a higher interest rate.

“Second lien” investments are loans with a second priority lien on all existing and future assets of the portfolio company. The security interest ranks below the security interests of any first lien and unitranche first lien lenders in those assets.

“Unsecured debt” investments are loans that generally rank senior to a borrower’s equity securities and junior in right of payment to such borrower’s other senior indebtedness.

FCRD Acquisition

On March 9, 2023, we completed the previously announced acquisition of First Eagle Alternative Capital BDC, Inc., a Delaware corporation, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”), dated as of October 3, 2022. The board of directors of both companies each unanimously approved the FCRD Acquisition and on March 7, 2023, FCRD’s stockholders approved the merger. In accordance with the terms of the Merger Agreement, holders of shares of FCRD’s common stock had their shares of FCRD common stock converted to the right to receive, in the aggregate, approximately (1) $8.6 million in cash payable by the Company, (2) 6,174,187 validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable shares of our common stock, and (3) $35.0 million in cash payable by the Adviser. This transaction resulted in our then-existing stockholders owning approximately 83% and FCRD’s then-existing stockholders owning approximately 17% of our common stock.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Changes in the economic environment, financial markets and any other parameters used in determining such estimates could cause actual results to differ materially. The critical accounting policies should be read in connection with our risk factors as disclosed herein.

For a description of our critical accounting policies, see Note 2 “Significant Accounting Policies” to our consolidated financial statements included in this report. We consider the most significant accounting policies to be those related to our Valuation of Portfolio Investments, Revenue Recognition, Non-Accrual Investments, Distribution Policy, and Income Taxes.

COMPONENTS OF OPERATIONS

Investments

We expect our investment activity to vary substantially from period to period depending on many factors, the general economic environment, the amount of capital we have available to us, the level of merger and acquisition activity for middle-market companies, including the amount of debt and equity capital available to such companies and the competitive environment for the type of investments we make. In addition, as part of our risk strategy on investments, we may reduce certain levels of investments through partial sales or syndication to additional investors.

We may not invest in any assets other than “qualifying assets” specified in the 1940 Act, unless, at the time the investments are made, at least 70% of our total assets are qualifying assets (with certain limited exceptions). Qualifying assets include investments in “eligible portfolio companies.” Pursuant to rules adopted by the SEC, “eligible portfolio companies” include certain companies that do not have any securities listed on a national securities exchange and public companies whose securities are listed on a national securities exchange but whose market capitalization is less than $250 million.

The Investment Adviser

Our investment activities are managed by the Adviser, which is responsible for originating prospective investments, conducting research and due diligence investigations on potential investments, analyzing investment opportunities, negotiating and structuring our investments and monitoring our investments and portfolio companies on an ongoing basis. The Adviser has entered into a resource sharing agreement with Crescent Capital Group LP (“Crescent”), pursuant to which Crescent provides the Adviser with experienced investment professionals (including the members of the Adviser’s investment committee) and access to Crescent’s resources so as to enable the Adviser to fulfill its obligations under the Investment Advisory Agreement. Through the resource sharing agreement, the Adviser intends to capitalize on the deal origination, credit underwriting, due diligence, investment structuring, execution, portfolio management and monitoring experience of Crescent’s investment professionals. On January 5, 2021, Sun Life Financial Inc. (together with its subsidiaries and joint ventures, “Sun Life”) acquired a majority interest in Crescent (the “Sun Life Transaction”). There were no changes to our investment objective, strategies and process or to the Crescent team responsible for the investment operations as a result of the Sun Life Transaction.

Revenues

We generate revenue primarily in the form of interest income on debt investments, capital gains and distributions, if any, on equity securities that we may acquire in portfolio companies. Certain investments may have contractual PIK interest or dividends. PIK represents accrued interest or accumulated dividends that are added to the loan principal of the investment on the respective interest or dividend payment dates rather than being paid in cash and generally becomes due at maturity or upon being called by the issuer. PIK is recorded as interest or dividend income, as applicable. We also generate revenue in the form of commitment or origination fees. Loan origination fees, original issue discount and market discount or premium are capitalized, and we accrete or amortize such amounts into income over the life of the loan using the effective yield method.

Dividend income from common equity securities is recorded on the record date for private portfolio companies or on the ex-dividend date for publicly-traded portfolio companies. Dividend income from preferred equity securities is recorded on an accrual basis to the extent that such amounts are payable by the portfolio company and are expected to be collected.

We may receive other income, which may include income such as consent, waiver, amendment, underwriting, and arranger fees associated with our investment activities as well as any fees for managerial assistance services rendered to the portfolio companies. Such fees are recognized as income when earned or the services are rendered.

Expenses

Our primary operating expenses include the payment of management fees and incentive fees to the Adviser under the Investment Advisory Agreement, as amended, our allocable portion of overhead expenses under the administration agreement with our Administrator (the “Administration Agreement”), operating costs associated with our sub-administration agreement and other operating costs described below. The management and incentive fees compensate the Adviser for its work in identifying, evaluating, negotiating, closing and monitoring our investments. We bear all other out-of-pocket costs and expenses of our operations and transactions, including:

• the cost of calculating our net asset value, including the cost of any third-party valuation services;
• fidelity bond, directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and other insurance premiums;
• fees and expenses associated with independent audits and outside legal costs;
• independent directors’ fees and expenses;
• administration fees and expenses, if any, payable under the Administration Agreement (including payments based upon our allocable portion of the Administrator’s overhead in performing its obligations under the Administration Agreement, rent and the allocable portion of the cost of certain professional services provided to us, including but not limited to, our accounting professionals, our legal counsel and compliance professionals);
• U.S. federal, state and local taxes;
• the cost of effecting sales and repurchases of shares of our common stock and other securities;
• fees payable to third parties relating to making investments, including out-of-pocket fees and expenses associated with performing due diligence and reviews of prospective investments;
• out-of-pocket fees and expenses associated with marketing efforts;
• federal and state registration fees and any stock exchange listing fees;
• brokerage commissions;
• costs associated with our reporting and compliance obligations under the 1940 Act and other applicable U.S. federal and state securities laws;
• debt service and other costs of borrowings or other financing arrangements; and
• all other expenses reasonably incurred by us in connection with making investments and administering our business.

We expect our general and administrative expenses to be relatively stable or decline as a percentage of total assets during periods of asset growth and to increase during periods of asset declines.

Leverage

Our financing facilities allow us to borrow money and lever our investment portfolio, subject to the limitations of the 1940 Act, with the objective of increasing our yield. This is known as “leverage” and could increase or decrease returns to our stockholders. The use of leverage involves significant risks.

In accordance with applicable SEC staff guidance and interpretations, effective May 5, 2020 with shareholder approval, we, as a BDC, are permitted to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage ratio is at least 150% after such borrowing (if certain requirements are met), rather than 200%, as previously required. Short-term credits necessary for the settlement of securities transactions and arrangements with respect to securities lending will not be considered borrowings for these purposes. The amount of leverage that we employ depends on our Adviser’s and our Board’s assessment of market conditions and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing.

PORTFOLIO INVESTMENT ACTIVITY

We seek to create a broad and diversified portfolio that generally includes senior secured first lien, unitranche, senior secured second lien, unsecured loans and minority equity securities of U.S. middle market companies. The size of our individual investments varies proportionately with the size of our capital base. We generally invest in securities that have been rated below investment grade by independent rating agencies or that would be rated below investment grade if they were rated. These securities have speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal. In addition, many of our debt investments have floating interest rates that reset on a periodic basis and typically do not fully pay down principal prior to maturity.

Our portfolio at fair value was comprised of the following:

($ in millions)

92

The following table shows our investment activity by investment type:

($ in millions)

(1) Excludes $335.0 million of assets at cost acquired in connection with the First Eagle Acquisition. The assets acquired, at cost, were comprised of $185.1 million of Senior Secured First Lien, $100.1 million of Unitranche First Lien, $2.8 million of Equity investments, and $47.0 million of LLC/LP Equity Interests

The following table presents certain selected information regarding our investment portfolio:

(1) Yield excludes investments on non-accrual status.

The following table shows the amortized cost and fair value of our performing and non-accrual debt and income producing debt securities:

($ in millions)

Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when there is reasonable doubt that principal or interest will be collected in full. Non-accrual loans are restored to accrual status when past due principal and interest is paid current and, in management’s judgment, are likely to remain current. Management may determine to not place a loan on non-accrual status if the loan has sufficient collateral value and is in the process of collection.

As of September 30, 2023, we had sixteen investments across nine portfolio companies on non-accrual status, which represented 2.3% and 1.8% of the total debt investments at cost and fair value, respectively. As of December 31, 2022, we had six investments across four portfolio companies on non-accrual status, which represented 2.0% and 1.2% of the total debt investments at cost and fair value, respectively. The remaining debt investments were performing and current on their interest payments as of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

The Adviser monitors our portfolio companies on an ongoing basis. The Adviser monitors the financial trends of each portfolio company to determine if it is meeting its business plans and to assess the appropriate course of action for each company. The Adviser has a number of methods of evaluating and monitoring the performance and fair value of our investments, which may include the following:

• assessment of success of the portfolio company in adhering to its business plan and compliance with covenants;
• review of monthly and quarterly financial statements and financial projections for portfolio companies;
• contact with portfolio company management and, if appropriate, the financial or strategic sponsor, to discuss financial position, requirements and accomplishments;
• comparisons to other companies in the industry; and
• attendance and participation in board meetings.

As part of the monitoring process, the Adviser regularly assesses the risk profile of each of our investments and, on a quarterly basis, grades each investment on a risk scale of 1 to 5. Risk assessment is not standardized in our industry and our risk assessment may not be comparable to ones used by our competitors. Our assessment is based on the following categories:

1. Involves the least amount of risk relative to cost or amortized cost. Investment performance is above expectations since origination or acquisition. Trends and risk factors are generally favorable, which may include financial performance or a potential exit.

2. Involves a level of risk that is similar to the risk at the time of origination or acquisition. The investment is generally performing as expected, and the risks around our ability to ultimately recoup the cost of the investment are neutral to favorable relative to the time of origination or acquisition. New investments are generally assigned a rating of 2 at origination or acquisition.

3. Indicates an investment performing below expectations where the risks around our ability to ultimately recoup the cost of the investment have increased since origination or acquisition. For debt investments, borrowers are more likely than not in compliance with debt covenants and loan payments are generally not past due. An investment rating of 3 requires closer monitoring.

4. Indicates an investment performing materially below expectations where the risks around our ability to ultimately recoup the cost of the investment have increased materially since origination or acquisition. For debt investments, borrowers may be out of compliance with debt covenants and loan payments may be past due (but generally not more than 180 days past due). Non-accrual status is strongly considered for debt investments rated 4.

5. Indicates an investment performing substantially below expectations where the risks around our ability to ultimately recoup the cost of the investment have substantially increased since origination or acquisition. We do not expect to recover our initial cost basis from investments rated 5. Debt investments with an investment rating of 5 are generally in payment and/or covenant default and are on non-accrual status.

The following table shows the composition of our portfolio on the 1 to 5 investment performance rating scale. Investment performance ratings are accurate only as of those dates and may change due to subsequent developments relating to a portfolio company’s business or financial condition, market conditions or developments, and other factors.

($ in millions)

94

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Summary Statement of Operations

Investment Income

Interest income, which includes amortization of upfront fees, increased from $27.2 million, for the three months ended September 30, 2022, to $44.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023, due to a rise in benchmark rates, the FCRD Acquisition and the organic growth of our income producing portfolio. Included in interest from investments for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 are $0.5 million and $0.3 million of accelerated accretion of OID related to paydown activity, respectively.

Dividend income increased from $1.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2022 to $3.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023 due to higher dividend distributions from our portfolio companies. For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we recorded $0.4 million and $0.2 million of other income, respectively.

Interest income, which includes amortization of upfront fees, increased from $75.7 million, for the nine months ended September 30, 2022, to $123.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, due to a rise in benchmark rates, the FCRD Acquisition and the organic growth of our income producing portfolio. Included in interest from investments for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 are $0.7 million and $2.1 million of accelerated accretion of OID related to paydown activity, respectively.

Dividend income increased from $6.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 to $9.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 due to higher dividend distributions from our portfolio companies. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we recorded $0.8 million and $0.4 million of other income, respectively.

Expenses

Interest and other debt financing costs

Interest and other debt financing costs include interest, amortization of deferred financing costs including upfront commitment fees and unused fees on our credit facilities. For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 interest and other debt financing costs were $15.4 million and $8.7 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 interest and other debt financing costs were $43.0 million and $20.7 million, respectively. The increase in interest and other debt financing costs was due to a higher weighted average debt outstanding and higher weighted average cost of debt related to a rise in benchmark rates.

Base Management Fees

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we incurred management fees of $5.1 million and $4.1 million, respectively, of which $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively, were waived. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we incurred management fees of $14.5 million and $12.2 million, respectively, of which $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively, were waived. The increase in net management fees was driven by growing assets under management.

Incentive Fees

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we incurred income based incentive fees of $4.6 million and $2.7 million, of which $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively, were waived. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we incurred income based incentive fees of $12.6 million and $8.0 million, of which $0.2 million and $0.5 million, respectively, were waived. The increase in net incentive fees was driven by growing investment income.

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 we recorded $0 and $(3.0) million, respectively, of capital gains based incentive fees. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 we recorded $0 and ($5.3) million, respectively, of capital gains based incentive fees. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, no capital gains based incentive fees were outstanding. The fluctuation in accumulated incentive fees on cumulative unrealized capital appreciation was attributable to the inception to date performance of the investment portfolio.

Professional Fees and Other General and Administrative Expenses

Professional fees generally include expenses from independent auditors, tax advisors, legal counsel and third party valuation agents. Other general and administrative expenses generally include overhead and staffing costs allocated from the Administrator, insurance premiums, sub-administration expenses and miscellaneous administrative costs associated with our operations and investment activity.

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, professional fees were $0.4 million and $0.3 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, professional fees were $1.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively.

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, other general and administrative expenses were $0.5 million and $0.7 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, other general and administrative expenses were $2.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

Income and Excise Taxes

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we expensed (reversed) income and excise taxes of $0.4 million and $(0.4) million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, we expensed income and excise taxes of $0.9 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

Net Investment Income

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, GAAP net investment income was $21.8 million or $0.59 per share and $16.0 million or $0.52 per share, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, GAAP net investment income was $59.8 million or $1.68 per share and $43.6 million or $1.41 per share, respectively. The increase in the per share net investment income was due to higher investment income earned year to date.

For the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, net investment income excluding capital gains incentive fees (“Adjusted Net Investment Income”) was $21.8 million or $0.59 per share and $13.0 million or $0.42 per share, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, Adjusted Net Investment Income was $59.8 million or $1.68 per share and $38.3 million or $1.24 per share, respectively. The increase in the per share Adjusted Net Investment Income was due to higher investment income earned year to date.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net investment income (the most comparable U.S. GAAP measure) to Adjusted Net Investment Income for the periods presented:

On a supplemental basis, we are disclosing Adjusted Net Investment Income and per share Adjusted Net Investment Income, each of which is a financial measure that is calculated and presented on a basis of methodology other than in accordance with U.S. GAAP (“non-GAAP”). Adjusted Net Investment Income represents net investment income, excluding capital gains incentive fees. We use this non-GAAP financial measure internally to analyze and evaluate financial results and performance and believe that this non-GAAP financial measure is useful to investors as an additional tool to evaluate ongoing results and trends without giving effect to capital gains incentive fees. The Investment Advisory Agreement provides that a capital gains-based incentive fee is determined and paid annually with respect to realized capital gains (but not unrealized capital appreciation) to the extent such realized capital gains exceed realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation on a cumulative basis. We believe that Adjusted Net Investment Income is a useful performance measure because it reflects the net investment income produced on the Company’s investments during a period without giving effect to any changes in the value of such investments and any related capital gains incentive fees between periods. The presentation of Adjusted Net Investment Income is not intended to be a substitute for financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered in isolation.

Net Realized and Unrealized Gains and Losses

We value our portfolio investments quarterly and any changes in fair value are recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments. Net realized gains (losses) and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on our investment portfolio were comprised of the following:

($ in millions)

Hedging

We may, but are not required to, enter into interest rate, foreign exchange or other derivative agreements to hedge interest rate, currency, credit or other risks. Generally, we do not intend to enter into any such derivative agreements for speculative purposes. Any derivative agreements entered into for speculative purposes are not expected to be material to our business or results of operations. These hedging activities, which are in compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements, may include the use of various instruments, including futures, options and forward contracts. We bear the costs incurred in connection with entering into, administering and settling any such derivative contracts. There can be no assurance any hedging strategy we employ will be successful.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, our average U.S. Dollar notional exposure to foreign currency forward contracts were $99.4 million and $98.7 million, respectively.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The primary uses of our cash and cash equivalents are for (1) investments in portfolio companies and other investments; (2) the cost of operations (including paying the Adviser); (3) debt service, repayment, and other financing costs; and (4) cash distributions to the holders of our common stock. We expect to generate additional liquidity from (1) future offerings of securities, (2) future borrowings and (3) cash flows from operations, including investment sales and repayments as well as income earned on investments.

As of September 30, 2023, we had $22.8 million in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents and $317.3 million of undrawn capacity on our senior revolving credit and special purpose vehicle asset facilities, subject to borrowing base and other limitations. As of September 30, 2023, the undrawn capacity under our facilities and cash and cash equivalents were in excess of our unfunded commitments.

As of September 30, 2023, we were in compliance with our asset coverage requirements under the 1940 Act. In addition, we were in compliance with all the financial covenant requirements of our credit facilities as of September 30, 2023. However, an increase in realized losses or unrealized depreciation of our investment portfolio or significant reductions in our net asset value as a result of the effects of the rising rate environment and the potential for a recession increase the risk of breaching the relevant covenants requirements. Any breach of these requirements may adversely affect the access to sufficient debt and equity capital.

Capital Share Activity

In connection with the FCRD Acquisition, we issued 6,174,187 shares as part of the consideration paid for net assets acquired.

Debt

($ in millions)

(1) The amount available is subject to any limitations related to the respective debt facilities’ borrowing bases and foreign currency translation adjustments.

(2) Amount presented excludes netting of deferred financing costs.

The combined weighted average interest rate of the aggregate borrowings outstanding for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 was 6.96% and 4.15%, respectively. The combined weighted average debt of the aggregate borrowings outstanding for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 was $825.6 million and $665.6 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the weighted average cost of debt was 7.01% and 6.23%, respectively.

SPV Asset Facility

On March 28, 2016, Crescent Capital BDC Funding, LLC (“CCAP SPV”), a wholly owned subsidiary of CCAP, entered into a loan and security agreement, as amended from time to time (the “SPV Asset Facility”), with us as the collateral manager, seller and equity holder, CCAP SPV as the borrower, the banks and other financial institutions from time to time party thereto as lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (“Wells Fargo”), as administrative agent, collateral agent, and lender. We consolidate CCAP SPV in our consolidated financial statements and no gain or loss is recognized from the transfer of assets to and from CCAP SPV.

The maximum commitment amount under the SPV Asset Facility is $500.0 million, and may be increased with the consent of Wells Fargo or reduced upon our request. Proceeds of the advances under the SPV Asset Facility may be used to acquire portfolio investments, to make distributions to us in accordance with the SPV Asset Facility, and to pay related expenses. The maturity date is the earlier of (a) the date the borrower voluntarily reduces the commitments to zero, (b) March 7, 2028 and (c) the date upon which Wells Fargo declares the obligations due and payable after the occurrence of an Event of Default. Borrowings under the SPV Asset Facility bear interest at daily simple SOFR plus a 2.75% margin with no floor. We pay unused facility fees of 0.50% per annum on committed but undrawn amounts under the SPV Asset Facility. The unused facility fee rate may vary based on the utilization. The SPV Asset Facility includes customary covenants, including certain limitations on the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens, as well as usual and customary events of default for revolving credit facilities of this nature.

The facility size is subject to availability under the borrowing base, which is based on the amount of CCAP SPV’s assets from time to time, and satisfaction of certain conditions, including an asset coverage test and certain concentration limits.

SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility

On October 27, 2021, we entered into a senior secured revolving credit agreement, as amended from time to time, with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, as administrative agent, collateral agent and lender (the “SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility”). The maximum principal amount of the SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility is $385.0 million, subject to availability under the borrowing base. Borrowings under the SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility bear interest at adjusted SOFR plus 1.875% or 2.000%, subject to certain provisions in the SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility agreement, with no benchmark rate floor. We pay unused facility fees of 0.375% per annum on committed but undrawn amounts under the SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility. Any amounts borrowed under the SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility, and all accrued and unpaid interest, will be due and payable, on October 27, 2026.

Series 2020A Unsecured Notes

On July 30, 2020, we completed a private offering of $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.95% senior unsecured notes due July 30, 2023 (the “Series 2020A Unsecured Notes”). The Series 2020A Unsecured Notes were issued in two $25.0 million issuances on July 30, 2020 and October 28, 2020. On July 28, 2023, Series 2020A Unsecured Notes were repaid upon the issuance of the Series 2023A Unsecured Notes, as defined below.

Series 2021A Unsecured Notes

On February 17, 2021, we completed a private offering of $135.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.00% senior unsecured notes due February 17, 2026 (the “Series 2021A Unsecured Notes”). The initial issuance of $50.0 million of Series 2021A Unsecured Notes closed February 17, 2021. The issuance of the remaining $85.0 million of 2026 Unsecured Notes closed on May 5, 2021.

The Series 2021A Unsecured Notes will mature on February 17, 2026 and may be redeemed in whole or in part, at our option, at any time or from time to time at par plus a “make-whole” premium, if applicable. Interest on the Series 2021A Unsecured Notes is due and payable semiannually in arrears on February 17 and August 17 of each year.

FCRX Unsecured Notes

On March 9, 2023, in connection with the FCRD Acquisition, we assumed $111.6 million of unsecured notes ("FCRX Unsecured Notes"). The FCRX Unsecured Note mature on May 25, 2026 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at the Company’s option on or after May 25, 2023. The FCRX Unsecured Note bear interest at a rate of 5.00% per year payable quarterly on March 30, June 30, September 30 and December 30 of each year. The FCRX Unsecured Note trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “FCRX”.

Series 2023A Unsecured Notes

On May 9, 2023, we completed a private offering of $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.54% senior unsecured notes due July 28, 2026 ("Series 2023A Unsecured Notes"). These notes were issued immediately after the repayment of $50.0 million of the Series 2020A Unsecured Notes on July 28, 2023.

The Series 2023A Unsecured Notes will mature on July 28, 2026 and may be redeemed in whole or in part, at our option, at any time or from time to time at par plus a “make-whole” premium, if applicable. Interest on the Series 2023A Unsecured Notes is due and payable semiannually in arrears on January 28 and July 28 of each year.

The summary of costs incurred in connection with the SPV Asset Facility, SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility, Series 2020A Unsecured Notes, Series 2021A Unsecured Notes, Series 2023A Unsecured Notes and FCRX Unsecured Notes is presented below:

($ in millions)

To the extent we determine that additional capital would allow us to take advantage of additional investment opportunities, if the market for debt financing presents attractively priced opportunities, or if our Board otherwise determines that leveraging our portfolio would be in our best interest and the best interests of our stockholders, we may enter into new debt financing opportunities in addition to our existing debt. The pricing and other terms of any such opportunities would depend upon market conditions and the performance of our business, among other factors.

In accordance with applicable SEC staff guidance and interpretations, effective May 5, 2020 with shareholder approval, we, as a BDC, are permitted to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage ratio is at least 150% after such borrowing (if certain requirements are met), rather than 200%, as previously required. Short-term credits necessary for the settlement of securities transactions and arrangements with respect to securities lending will not be considered borrowings for these purposes. The amount of leverage that we employ depends on our Adviser’s and our Board’s assessment of market conditions and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing.

As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, our asset coverage ratio was 184% and 192%, respectively. We may also refinance or repay any of our indebtedness at any time based on our financial condition and market conditions. See Note 6. Debt to our consolidated financial statements for more detail on the debt facilities.

OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Our investment portfolio may contain investments that are in the form of lines of credit or unfunded commitments which require us to provide funding when requested by portfolio companies in accordance with the terms of the underlying agreements. Unfunded commitments to provide funds to portfolio companies are not reflected on our Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities. These commitments are subject to the same underwriting and ongoing portfolio maintenance as are the on-balance sheet financial instruments that we hold. Since these commitments may expire without being drawn, the total commitment amount does not necessarily represent future cash requirements. As of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, we had aggregate unfunded commitments totaling $157.4 million and $158.9 million, respectively.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

On November 2, 2023, our Board of Directors declared a regular fourth quarter cash dividend of $0.41 per share, which will be paid on January 16, 2024 to stockholders of record as of December 29, 2023. Additionally, our Board declared a supplemental cash dividend of $0.09 per share which will be paid on December 15, 2023 to stockholders of record as of November 30, 2023. The supplemental dividend is calculated as 50% of net investment income in excess of our regular dividend, subject to certain measurement tests and rounded to the nearest penny.

We are subject to financial market risks, including valuation risk, interest rate risk and currency risk.

Valuation Risk

We have invested, and plan to continue to invest, in illiquid debt and equity securities of private companies. These investments will generally not have a readily available market price, and we will value these investments at fair value as determined in good faith by our Adviser, as the Board's valuation designee, in accordance with our valuation policy. There is no single standard for determining fair value in good faith. As a result, determining fair value requires that judgment be applied to the specific facts and circumstances of each portfolio investment while employing a consistently applied valuation process for the types of investments we make. If we were required to liquidate a portfolio investment in a forced or liquidation sale, we may realize amounts that are different from the amounts presented and such differences could be material. See Note 2. Summary of Significant Account Policies to our consolidated financial statements for more details on estimates and judgments made by us in connection with the valuation of our investments.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate sensitivity refers to the change in earnings that may result from changes in the level of interest rates. We also fund a portion of our investments with borrowings and our net investment income will be affected by the difference between the rate at which we invest and the rate at which we borrow. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income.

We regularly measure our exposure to interest rate risk. We assess interest rate risk and manage our interest rate exposure on an ongoing basis by comparing our interest rate-sensitive assets to our interest rate-sensitive liabilities. Based on that review, we determine whether or not any hedging transactions are necessary to mitigate exposure to changes in interest rates.

As of September 30, 2023, 98.6% of the investments at fair value in our portfolio were at variable rates, subject to interest rate floors. The SPV Asset Facility and SMBC Corporate Revolving Facility also bear interest at variable rates.

Assuming that our Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of September 30, 2023 were to remain constant and that we took no actions to alter our existing interest rate sensitivity, the following table shows the annualized impact of hypothetical base rate changes in interest rates (considering interest rate floors for floating rate instruments):

($ in millions)

(1) Excludes the impact of income incentive fees. See Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements for more information on the income incentive fees.

Although we believe that this analysis is indicative of our existing sensitivity to interest rate changes, it does not adjust for changes in the credit market, credit quality, the size and composition of the assets in our portfolio and other business developments that could affect our net income. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that actual results would not differ materially from the analysis above.

We may in the future hedge against interest rate fluctuations by using hedging instruments such as interest rate swaps, futures, options and forward contracts. While hedging activities may mitigate our exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates, certain hedging transactions that we may enter into in the future, such as interest rate swap agreements, may also limit our ability to participate in the benefits of lower interest rates with respect to our portfolio investments.

Currency Risk

From time to time, we may make investments that are denominated in a foreign currency. These investments are converted into U.S. dollars at the balance sheet date, exposing us to movements in foreign exchange rates. We may employ hedging techniques to minimize these risks, but we cannot assure you that such strategies will be effective or without risk to us. We may seek to utilize instruments such as, but not limited to, forward contracts to seek to hedge against fluctuations in the relative values of our portfolio positions from changes in currency exchange rates. To the extent the loan or investment is based on a floating rate, we may seek to utilize interest rate derivatives to hedge our exposure to changes in the associated rate. As of September 30, 2023, we had £23.0 million, €17.8 million, CAD $30.7 million, AUD $29.3, and SEK 11.6 notional exposure to foreign currency forward contracts related to investments totaling £23.0 million, €18.3 million, CAD $30.7 million, AUD $29.2, and SEK 11.6 at par.

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as that term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. Any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. Our management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2023. Based upon that evaluation and subject to the foregoing, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that, as of September 30, 2023, the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to accomplish their objectives at the reasonable assurance level.

(b) Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. Internal control over financial reporting is a process to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Internal control over financial reporting includes maintaining records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect our transactions; providing reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary for preparation of our consolidated financial statements; providing reasonable assurance that receipts and expenditures of company assets are made in accordance with management authorization; and providing reasonable assurance that unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of company assets that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements would be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to provide absolute assurance that a material misstatement of our consolidated financial statements would be prevented or detected.

Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, management concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of September 30, 2023.

(c) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended September 30, 2023, that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the risk factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, which could materially affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. These risks are not the only risks facing our Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.

Significant risks that could affect financial institutions to which we are exposed may affect our business.

Issuers, national and regional banks, financial institutions and other participants in the U.S. and global capital markets are closely interrelated as a result of credit, trading, clearing, technology and other relationships. A significant adverse development (such as a bank run, insolvency, bankruptcy or default) with one or more national or regional banks, financial institutions or other participants in the financial or capital markets may spread to others and lead to significant concentrated or market-wide problems (such as defaults, liquidity problems, impairment charges, additional bank runs and/or losses) for other participants in these markets. Future developments, including actions taken by the U.S. Department of Treasury, FDIC, Federal Reserve Board, and systemic risk in the U.S. and global banking sectors and broader economies in general, are difficult to assess and quantify, and the form and magnitude of such developments or other actions of the U.S. Department of Treasury, FDIC and Federal Reserve Board may remain unknown for significant periods of time and could have an adverse effect on the Company.

For example, in response to the rapidly declining financial condition of regional banks Silicon Valley Bank (“SVB”) and Signature Bank (“Signature”), the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation and the New York State Department of Financial Services closed SVB and Signature on March 10, 2023 and March 12, 2023, respectively, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) was appointed as receiver for SVB and Signature. Although the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve and the FDIC have taken measures to stabilize the financial system, uncertainty and liquidity concerns in the broader financial services industry remain. Additionally, should there be additional systemic pressure on the financial system and capital markets, we cannot assure you of the response of any government or regulator, and any response may not be as favorable to industry participants as the measures currently being pursued. In addition, highly publicized issues related to the U.S. and global capital markets in the past have led to significant and widespread investor concerns over the integrity of the capital markets. The current situation related to SVB and Signature could in the future lead to further rules and regulations for public companies, banks, financial institutions and other participants in the U.S. and global capital markets, and complying with the requirements of any such rules or regulations may be burdensome. Even if not adopted, evaluating and responding to any such proposed rules or regulations could results in increased costs and require significant attention from the Adviser.