Pennantpark Investment Corp: Form 10-Q for the period ended Dec 31, 2023

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Report, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements, which relate to us and our consolidated subsidiaries regarding future events or our future performance or future financial condition. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our Company, our industry, our beliefs and our assumptions. The forward-looking statements contained in this Report involve risks and uncertainties, including statements as to:

• our future operating results;
• our business prospects and the prospects of our prospective portfolio companies;
• changes in political, economic or industry conditions, the interest rate environment or conditions affecting the financial and capital markets that could result in changes to the value of our assets;
• the dependence of our future success on the general economy and its impact on the industries in which we invest;
• the impact of a protracted decline in the liquidity of credit markets on our business;
• the impact of investments that we expect to make;
• the impact of fluctuations in interest rates and foreign exchange rates on our business and our portfolio companies;
• our contractual arrangements and relationships with third parties;
• the valuation of our investments in portfolio companies, particularly those having no liquid trading market;
• the ability of our prospective portfolio companies to achieve their objectives;
• our expected financings and investments;
• the adequacy of our cash resources and working capital;
• the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operations of our prospective portfolio companies;
• the impact of price and volume fluctuations in the stock market;
• increasing levels of inflation, and its impact on us and our portfolio companies;
• the ability of our Investment Adviser to locate suitable investments for us and to monitor and administer our investments;
• the impact of future legislation and regulation on our business and our portfolio companies;
• the impact of the ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russia and other world economic and political issues; and
• the inability to develop and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting.

We use words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “seeks,” “plans,” “estimates” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. You should not place undue influence on the forward-looking statements as our actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements for any reason, including the factors in “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Report.

Although we believe that the assumptions on which these forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, any of those assumptions could prove to be inaccurate, and, as a result, the forward-looking statements based on those assumptions also could be inaccurate. Important assumptions include our ability to originate new loans and investments, certain margins and levels of profitability and the availability of additional capital. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of a projection or forward-looking statement in this Report should not be regarded as a representation by us that our plans and objectives will be achieved.

We have based the forward-looking statements included in this Report on information available to us on the date of this Report, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Although we undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements in this Report, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we in the future may file with the SEC, including reports on Form 10-Q/K and current reports on Form 8-K.

You should understand that under Section 27A(b)(2)(B) of the Securities Act and Section 21E(b)(2)(B) of the Exchange Act, the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 do not apply to forward-looking statements made in periodic reports we file under the Exchange Act.

The following analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes thereto contained elsewhere in this Report.

Overview

PennantPark Investment Corporation is a BDC whose objectives are to generate both current income and capital appreciation while seeking to preserve capital through debt and equity investments primarily made to U.S. middle-market companies in the form of first lien secured debt, second lien secured debt, subordinated debt and equity investments.

We believe middle-market companies offer attractive risk-reward to investors due to a limited amount of capital available for such companies. We seek to create a diversified portfolio that includes first lien secured debt, second lien secured debt, subordinated debt and equity investments by investing approximately $10 million to $50 million of capital, on average, in the securities of middle-market companies. We expect this investment size to vary proportionately with the size of our capital base. We use the term “middle-market” to refer to companies with annual revenues between $50 million and $1 billion. The companies in which we invest are typically highly leveraged, and, in most cases, are not rated by national rating agencies. If such companies were rated, we believe that they would typically receive a rating below investment grade (between BB and CCC under the Standard & Poor’s system) from the national rating agencies. Securities rated below investment grade are often referred to as “leveraged loans” or “high yield” securities or “junk bonds” and are often higher risk compared to debt instruments that are rated above investment grade and have speculative characteristics. Our debt investments may generally range in maturity from three to ten years and are made to U.S. and, to a limited extent, non-U.S. corporations, partnerships and other business entities which operate in various industries and geographical regions.

Our investment activity depends on many factors, including the amount of debt and equity capital available to middle-market companies, the level of merger and acquisition activity for such companies, the general economic environment and the competitive environment for the types of investments we make. We have used, and expect to continue to use, our debt capital, proceeds from the rotation of our portfolio and proceeds from public and private offerings of securities to finance our investment objectives.

Organization and Structure of PennantPark Investment Corporation

PennantPark Investment Corporation, a Maryland corporation organized in January 2007, is a closed-end, externally managed, non-diversified investment company that has elected to be treated as a BDC under the 1940 Act. In addition, for federal income tax purposes we have elected to be treated, and intend to qualify annually, as a RIC under the Code.

Our investment activities are managed by the Investment Adviser. Under our Investment Management Agreement, we have agreed to pay our Investment Adviser an annual base management fee based on our average adjusted gross assets as well as an incentive fee based on our investment performance. PennantPark Investment, through the Investment Adviser, provides similar services to SBIC II under its investment management agreement. SBIC II’s investment management agreement does not affect the management and incentive fees on a consolidated basis. We have also entered into an Administration Agreement with the Administrator. Under our Administration Agreement, we have agreed to reimburse the Administrator for our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under our Administration Agreement, including rent and our allocable portion of the costs of compensation and related expenses of our Chief Financial Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, Corporate Counsel and their respective staffs. PennantPark Investment, through the Administrator, provides similar services to SBIC II under its administration agreement with us. Our board of directors, a majority of whom are independent of us, provides overall supervision of our activities, and the Investment Adviser supervises our day-to-day activities.

Revenues

We generate revenue in the form of interest income on the debt securities we hold and capital gains and dividends, if any, on investment securities that we may acquire in portfolio companies. Our debt investments, whether in the form of first lien secured debt, second lien secured debt or subordinated debt, typically have a term of three to ten years and bear interest at a fixed or a floating rate. Interest on debt securities is generally payable quarterly or semiannually. In some cases, our investments provide for deferred interest payments and PIK interest. The principal amount of the debt securities and any accrued but unpaid interest generally becomes due at the maturity date. In addition, we may generate revenue in the form of amendment, commitment, origination, structuring or diligence fees, fees for providing significant managerial assistance and possibly consulting fees. Loan origination fees, OID and market discount or premium and deferred financing costs on liabilities, which we do not fair value, are capitalized and accreted or amortized using the effective interest method as interest income or, in the case of deferred financing costs, as interest expense. Dividend income, if any, is recognized on an accrual basis on the ex-dividend date to the extent that we expect to collect such amounts. From time to time, the Company receives certain fees from portfolio companies, which may or may not be non-recurring in nature. Such fees include loan prepayment penalties, structuring fees, amendment fees, and agency fees and are recorded as other investment income when earned.

Expenses

Our primary operating expenses include interest expense on the outstanding debt and unused commitment fees on undrawn amounts, under our various debt facilities, the payment of a management fee and the payment of an incentive fee to our Investment Adviser, if any, our allocable portion of overhead under our Administration Agreement and other operating costs as detailed below. Our management fee compensates our Investment Adviser for its work in identifying, evaluating, negotiating, consummating and monitoring our investments. We bear all other direct or indirect 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;
• the cost of effecting sales and repurchases of shares of our common stock and other securities;
• fees payable to third parties relating to, or associated with, making investments, including fees and expenses associated with performing due diligence and reviews of prospective investments or complementary businesses;
• expenses incurred by the Investment Adviser in performing due diligence and reviews of investments; including expenses incurred by the Investment Adviser

payable to third parties (including agents and consultants) in monitoring financial and legal affairs for the Company and in monitoring the Company's

investments;

• transfer agent and custodial fees;
• fees and expenses associated with marketing efforts;
• federal and state registration fees and any exchange listing fees;
• federal, state, local and foreign taxes;
• independent directors’ fees and expenses;
• brokerage commissions;
• fidelity bond, directors and officers, errors and omissions liability insurance and other insurance premiums;
• direct costs such as printing, mailing, long distance telephone and staff;
• fees and expenses associated with independent audits and outside legal costs;
• costs associated with our reporting and compliance obligations under the 1940 Act, and applicable federal and state securities laws; and
• all other expenses incurred by either the Administrator or us in connection with administering our business, including payments under our Administration Agreement that will be based upon our allocable portion of overhead, and other expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations under our Administration Agreement, including rent and our allocable portion of the costs of compensation and related expenses of our Chief Financial Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, Corporate Counsel and their respective staffs.

Generally, during periods of asset growth, we expect our general and administrative expenses to be relatively stable or to decline as a percentage of total assets and increase during periods of asset declines. Incentive fees, interest expense and costs relating to future offerings of securities would be additive to the expenses described above.

Restatement of Previously Issued Financial Statement

As noted in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2023, during the preparation of the financial statements as of and for the year ended September 30, 2023, Management identified an error in the classification and presentation of cash pertaining to the Company’s affiliates – PSLF and PTSF II in the September 30, 2022 financial statements. The Company recorded cash activity and due to affiliates pertaining to their investments as a reduction of the cash account instead of presenting the related cash and cash equivalents as an asset and a due to affiliates as a liability. This misclassification also existed at December 31, 2022, and the impact of the error correction is reflected on the consolidated statement of cash flows for the three months ended December 31, 2022 as an increase to cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period totaling $2.1 million, an increase to cash and cash equivalents, end of period totaling $2.2 million, and increase in due to affiliates of $0.04 million.

There was no impact from the error correction to total net assets and net asset value per share as reported on the consolidated statement of assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2022. In addition, there was no impact from the error correction on net investment income or net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations in total or on a per common share basis as reported on the consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended December 31, 2022. The corrections related to the prior year comparative cash flow statement amounts were reported in the quarter ended December 31, 2023.

As a result of the error in the classification and presentation of cash described above, we conducted an analysis to determine whether incentive-based compensation was erroneously awarded, thereby necessitating recovery under the Clawback Policy we adopted effective December 1, 2023. Because we do not pay or otherwise award incentive-based compensation to the Company’s executives, we concluded that the error did not result in erroneously-awarded incentive-based compensation, and therefore no compensation recovery is required.

PORTFOLIO AND INVESTMENT ACTIVITY

As of December 31, 2023, our portfolio totaled $1,210.8 million and consisted of $677.7 million or 56% of first lien secured debt, $49.8 million or 4% of U.S. Government Securities, $78.4 million or 7% of second lien secured debt, $151.1 million or12% of subordinated debt (including $102.3 million or 8% in PSLF) and $253.7 million or 21% of preferred and common equity (including $62.8 million or 5% in PSLF). Our interest bearing debt portfolio consisted of 96% variable-rate investments and 4% fixed-rate investments. As of December 31, 2023, we had one portfolio company on non-accrual, representing 1.0% and zero percent of our overall portfolio on a cost and fair value basis, respectively. Overall, the portfolio had net unrealized depreciation of $(21.3) million as of December 31, 2023. Our overall portfolio consisted of 139 companies with an average investment size of $8.4 million, had a weighted average yield on interest bearing debt investments of 12.6%.

As of September 30, 2023, our portfolio totaled $1,101.7 million and consisted of $527.7 million or 48% of first lien secured debt, $99.8 million or 9% of U.S. Government Securities, $80.4 million or 7% of second lien secured debt, $156.2 million or 14% of subordinated debt (including $102.3 million or 9% in PSLF) and $237.6 million or 22% of preferred and common equity (including $62.1 million or 6% in PSLF). Our interest bearing debt portfolio consisted of 95% variable-rate investments and 5% fixed-rate investments. As of September 30, 2023, we had one portfolio company on non-accrual, representing 1.2% and zero percent of our overall portfolio on a cost and fair value basis, respectively. Overall, the portfolio had net unrealized depreciation of $(16.3) million as of September 30, 2023. Our overall portfolio consisted of 129 companies with an average investment size of $7.8 million, had a weighted average yield on interest bearing debt investments of 13.0%.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023, we invested $231.1 million in 12 new and 32 existing portfolio companies with a weighted average yield on debt investments of 11.9% (excluding U.S. Government Securities). For the three months ended December 31, 2023, sales and repayments of investments totaled $71.0 million (excluding U.S. Government Securities).

For the three months ended December 31, 2022, we invested $86.2 million in six new and 29 existing portfolio companies with a weighted average yield on debt investments of 11.2%. For the three months ended December 31, 2022, sales and repayments of investments totaled $30.6 million

PennantPark Senior Loan Fund, LLC

As of December 31, 2023, PSLF’s portfolio totaled $857.9 million, consisted of 93 companies with an average investment size of $9.2 million and had a weighted average yield interest bearing debt investments of 12.1 %.

As of September 30, 2023, PSLF’s portfolio totaled $804.2 million, consisted of 90 companies with an average investment size of $8.9 million and had a weighted average yield interest bearing debt investments of 12.1 %.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023, PSLF invested $81.0 million (including $50.8 million were purchased from the Company) in five new and seven existing portfolio companies at weighted average yield interest bearing debt investments of 12.7%. PSLF’s sales and repayments of investments for the same period totaled $29.1 million.

For the three months ended December 31, 2022, PSLF invested $16.8 million (of which none was purchased from the Company) in four new and four existing portfolio companies at weighted average yield on interest bearing debt investments of 11.4%. PSLF’s sales and repayments of investments for the same period totaled $9.0 million.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of our assets and liabilities at the date of the Consolidated Financial Statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reported periods In the opinion of management, all adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature, considered necessary for the fair presentation of financial statements have been included. Actual results could differ from these estimates due to changes in the economic and regulatory environment, financial markets and any other parameters used in determining such estimates and assumptions, including the credit worthiness of our portfolio companies. We may reclassify certain prior period amounts to conform to the current period presentation. We have eliminated all intercompany balances and transactions. References to ASC serve as a single source of accounting literature. Subsequent events are evaluated and disclosed as appropriate for events occurring through the date the Consolidated Financial Statements are issued. In addition to the discussion below, we

describe our critical accounting policies in the notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements. We discuss our critical accounting estimates in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K. There have been no significant changes in our critical accounting estimates during the nine months from those disclosed in our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Investment Valuations

We expect that there may not be readily available market values for many of the investments which are or will be in our portfolio, and we value such investments at fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of our board of directors using a documented valuation policy and a consistently applied valuation process, as described in this Report. With respect to investments for which there is no readily available market value, the factors that our board of directors may take into account in pricing our investments at fair value include, as relevant, the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company’s ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, comparison to publicly traded securities and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we consider the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate or revise our valuation. Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the price used in an actual transaction may be different than our valuation and the difference may be material.

Our portfolio generally consists of illiquid securities, including debt and equity investments. With respect to investments for which market quotations are not readily available, or for which market quotations are deemed not reflective of the fair value, our board of directors undertakes a multi-step valuation process each quarter, as described below:

(1) Our quarterly valuation process begins with each portfolio company or investment being initially valued by the investment professionals of our Investment Adviser responsible for the portfolio investment;

(2) Preliminary valuation conclusions are then documented and discussed with the management of the Investment Adviser;

(3) Our board of directors also engages independent valuation firms to conduct independent appraisals of our investments for which market quotations are not readily available or are readily available but deemed not reflective of the fair value of the investment. The independent valuation firms review management’s preliminary valuations in light of their own independent assessment and also in light of any market quotations obtained from an independent pricing service, broker, dealer or market maker;

(4) The audit committee of our board of directors reviews the preliminary valuations of the Investment Adviser and those of the independent valuation firms on a quarterly basis, periodically assesses the valuation methodologies of the independent valuation firms, and responds to and supplements the valuation recommendations of the independent valuation firms to reflect any comments; and

(5) Our board of directors discusses these valuations and determines the fair value of each investment in our portfolio in good faith, based on the input of our Investment Adviser, the respective independent valuation firms and the audit committee.

Our board of directors generally uses market quotations to assess the value of our investments for which market quotations are readily available. We obtain these market values from independent pricing services or at the bid prices obtained from at least two brokers or dealers, if available, or otherwise from a principal market maker or a primary market dealer. The Investment Adviser assesses the source and reliability of bids from brokers or dealers. If our board of directors has a bona fide reason to believe any such market quote does not reflect the fair value of an investment, it may independently value such investments by using the valuation procedure that it uses with respect to assets for which market quotations are not readily available.

Fair value, as defined under ASC 820, is the price that we would receive upon selling an investment or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction to a market participant in the principal or most advantageous market for the investment or liability. ASC 820 emphasizes that valuation techniques maximize the use of observable market inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of us. Unobservable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on the best information available to us on the reporting period date.

ASC 820 classifies the inputs used to measure these fair values into the following hierarchies:

A financial instrument’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Generally, most of our investments, and our are classified as Level 3. Our 2026 Notes and 2026 Notes-2 are classified as Level 2, as they are financial instruments with readily observable market inputs. Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the price used in an actual transaction may be different than our valuation and those differences may be material.

On December 3, 2020, the SEC adopted Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act, which establishes an updated regulatory framework for determining fair value in good faith for purposes of the 1940 Act. The new rule clarifies how fund boards of directors can satisfy their valuation obligations and requires, among other things, the board of directors to periodically assess material valuation risks and take steps to manage those risks. The rule also permits boards of directors, subject to board oversight and certain other conditions, to designate the fund’s investment adviser to perform fair value determinations. The new rule went into effect on March 8, 2021 and had a compliance date of September 8, 2022. We came into compliance with Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act before the compliance date. While our board of directors has not elected to designate the Investment Adviser as the valuation designee at this time, we have adopted certain revisions to our valuation policies and procedures in order comply with the applicable requirements of Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act.

In addition to using the above inputs to value cash equivalents, investments, our 2026 Notes, 2026 Notes-2 and our Truist Credit Facility valuations, we employ the valuation policy approved by our board of directors that is consistent with ASC 820. Consistent with our valuation policy, we evaluate the source of inputs, including any markets in which our investments are trading, in determining fair value.

Generally, the carrying value of our consolidated financial liabilities approximates fair value. We have adopted the principles under ASC Subtopic 825-10, Financial Instruments, or ASC 825-10, which provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value, and made an irrevocable election to apply ASC 825-10 to our Truist Credit Facility. We elected to use the fair value option for the Truist Credit Facility to align the measurement attributes of both our assets and liabilities while mitigating volatility in earnings from using different measurement attributes. Due to that election and in accordance with GAAP, we did not incur any expenses relating to amendment costs on the Truist Credit Facility for both the three months ended December 31, 2023. ASC 825-10 establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between companies that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities and to more easily understand the effect on earnings of a company’s choice to use fair value. ASC 825-10 also requires entities to display the fair value of the selected assets and liabilities on the face of the Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities and changes in fair value of the Truist Credit Facility is reported in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We elect not to apply ASC 825-10 to any other financial assets or liabilities, including the 2026 Notes, and 2026 Notes-2.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Truist Credit Facility had a net change in unrealized (appreciation) depreciation of $(2.0) million and $4.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, the net unrealized depreciation on the Truist Credit Facility totaled $3.4 million and $5.5 million, respectively. We use a nationally recognized independent valuation service to measure the fair value of our Truist Credit Facility in a manner consistent with the valuation process that the board of directors uses to value our investments.

Revenue Recognition

We record interest income on an accrual basis to the extent that we expect to collect such amounts. For loans and debt investments with contractual PIK interest, which represents interest accrued and added to the loan balance that generally becomes due at maturity, we will generally not accrue PIK interest when the portfolio company valuation indicates that such PIK interest is not collectable. We do not accrue as a receivable interest on loans and debt investments if we have reason to doubt our ability to collect such interest. Loan origination fees, OID, market discount or premium and deferred financing costs on liabilities, which we do not fair value, are capitalized and then accreted or amortized using the effective interest method as interest income or, in the case of deferred financing costs, as interest expense. We record prepayment penalties on loans and debt investments as income. Dividend income, if any, is recognized on an accrual basis on the ex-dividend date to the extent that we expect to collect such amounts. From time to time, the Company receives certain fees from portfolio companies, which may or may not be non-recurring in nature. Such fees include loan prepayment penalties, structuring fees, amendment fees, and agency fees and are recorded as other investment income when earned.

Net Realized Gains or Losses and Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation or Depreciation

We measure realized gains or losses by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the amortized cost basis of the investment, using the specific identification method, without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized, but considering unamortized upfront fees and prepayment penalties. Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation reflects the change in fair values of our portfolio investments and our Truist Credit Facility, including any reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation or depreciation, when gains or losses are realized.

Foreign Currency Translation

Our books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Any foreign currency amounts are translated into U.S. dollars on the following basis:

1. Fair value of investment securities, other assets and liabilities – at the exchange rates prevailing at the end of the applicable period; and

2. Purchases and sales of investment securities, income and expenses – at the exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions.

Although net assets and fair values are presented based on the applicable foreign exchange rates described above, we do not isolate that portion of the results of operations due to changes in foreign exchange rates on investments, other assets and debt from the fluctuations arising from changes in fair values of investments and liabilities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss from investments and liabilities.

Payment-in-Kind, or PIK Interest

We have investments in our portfolio which contain a PIK interest provision. PIK interest is added to the principal balance of the investment and is recorded as income. In order for us to maintain our ability to be subject to tax as a RIC, substantially all of this income must be paid out to stockholders in the form of dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes, even though we may not have collected any cash with respect to interest on PIK securities.

Federal Income Taxes

We have elected to be treated, and intend to qualify annually to maintain our election to be treated, as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. To maintain our RIC tax election, we must, among other requirements, meet certain annual source-of-income and quarterly asset diversification requirements. We also must annually distribute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to our stockholders out of the assets legally available for distribution of an amount generally at least equal to 90% of the sum of our net ordinary income and realized net short-term capital gains in excess of realized net long-term capital losses, or investment company taxable income, determined without regard to any deduction for dividends paid.

Although not required for us to maintain our RIC tax status, in order to preclude the imposition of a 4% nondeductible U.S. federal excise tax imposed on RICs, we must distribute dividends for federal income tax purposes to our stockholders in respect of each calendar year of an amount at least equal to the sum of (1) 98% of our net ordinary income (subject to certain deferrals and elections) for the calendar year, (2) 98.2% of the excess, if any, of our capital gains over our capital losses, or capital gain net income (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for the one-year period ending on October 31 of the calendar year plus (3) the sum of any net ordinary income plus capital gain net income for preceding years that was realized but not distributed during such years and on which we did not incur any U.S. federal income tax, or the Excise Tax Avoidance Requirement. In addition, although we may distribute realized net capital gains (i.e., net long-term capital gains in excess of net short-term capital losses), if any, at least annually, out of the assets legally available for such distributions in the manner described above, we have retained and may continue to retain such net capital gains or investment company taxable income, contingent on maintaining our ability to be subject to tax as a RIC, in order to provide us with additional liquidity.

Because federal income tax regulations differ from GAAP, distributions in accordance with tax regulations may differ from net investment income and net realized gain recognized for financial reporting purposes. Differences between tax regulations and GAAP may be permanent or temporary. Permanent differences are reclassified among capital accounts in the Consolidated Financial Statements to reflect their appropriate tax character. Temporary differences arise when certain items of income, expense, gain or loss are recognized at some time in the future.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 we recorded a provision for taxes on net investment income of $0.4 million and $2.0 million respectively, pertaining to federal excise tax.

The Taxable Subsidiary (PNNT Investment Holdings, LLC, wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company,) is subject to U.S. federal, state and local corporate income taxes. The income tax expense and related tax liabilities of the Taxable Subsidiary are reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized a provision for taxes of zero, respectively, on net realized gain (loss) on investments by the Taxable Subsidiary. For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized a provision for taxes of $(0.2) million and $(0.9) million, respectively, on net unrealized gain (loss) on investments by the Taxable Subsidiary. The provision for taxes on net realized and unrealized gains on investments is the result of netting (i) the expected tax liability on the gains from the sales of investments which is likely to be realized and unrealized during fiscal year ending September 30, 2024 and (ii) the expected tax benefit resulting from the use of loss carryforwards to offset such gains. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, the Company recognized a provision for taxes of $0.2 million and $3.4 million, respectively, on net realized and unrealized gains on investments by the Taxable Subsidiary.

During the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company paid zero, respectively, in federal taxes on realized gains on the sale of investments held by the Taxable Subsidiary. The state and local tax liability is zero as of December 31, 2023 is included under accrued other expenses in the consolidated statement of assets and liabilities.

We operate in a manner to maintain our election to be subject to tax as a RIC and to eliminate corporate-level U.S. federal income tax (other than the 4% excise tax) by distributing sufficient investment company taxable income and capital gain net income (if any). As a result, we will have an effective tax rate equal to 0% before the excise tax and income taxes incurred by the Taxable Subsidiary. As such, a reconciliation of the differences between our reported income tax expense and its tax expense at the federal statutory rate of 21% is not meaningful.

The Taxable Subsidiary, which is subject to tax as a corporation, allows us to hold equity securities of certain portfolio companies treated as pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes while facilitating our ability to qualify as a RIC under the Code.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Set forth below are the results of operations for the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022

Investment Income

For the three months ended December 31, 2023, investment income was $34.3 million, which was attributable to $25.1 million from first lien secured debt, $2.6 million from second lien secured debt, $1.3 million from subordinated debt and $5.3 million from preferred and common equity, respectively. For the three months ended December 31, 2022, investment income was $30.0 million, which was attributable to $21.8 million from first lien secured debt, $3.8 million from second lien secured debt, $1.1 million from subordinated debt and $3.3 million from preferred and common equity, respectively. The increase in investment income compared to the same period in the prior year was primarily due to the increase in the cost of yield of our debt portfolio.

Expenses

For the three months ended December 31, 2023, expenses totaled $18.7 million and were comprised of; $9.6 million of debt related interest and expenses, $4.0 million of base management fees, $3.3 million of performance based $1.4 million of general and administrative expenses and $0.4 million of provision for excise taxes. For the three months ended December 31, 2022, expenses totaled $19.6 million and were comprised of; $9.7 million of debt-related interest and expenses, $4.6 million of base management fees, $2.2 million of performance based, incentive fees, $1.1 million of general and administrative expenses and $2.0 million of provision for excise taxes, respectively. The decrease in net expense was primarily due to the provision for excise taxes compared to the same period in the prior year.

Net Investment Income

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, net investment income totaled $15.7 million, or $0.24 per share, and $10.3 million, or $0.16 per share, respectively. The increase in net investment income compared to the same period in the prior year was primarily due to an increase in the cost of yield our debt portfolio.

Net Realized Gains or Losses

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, net realized gains (losses) totaled $1.8 million and $4.1 million, respectively. The change in realized gains (losses) was primarily due to changes in the market conditions of our investments and the values at which they were realized.

Unrealized Appreciation or Depreciation on Investments and Debt

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, we reported net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments of $(5.0) million and $(91.6) million, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, the net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments totaled $(21.3) million and $(16.3) million, respectively. The net change in unrealized depreciation on our investments compared to the same period in the prior year was primarily due to changes in the capital market conditions of our investments and the values at which they were realized.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Truist Credit Facility had a net change in unrealized (appreciation) depreciation of $(2.0) million and $4.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, the net unrealized depreciation on the Truist Credit Facility totaled $3.4 million and $5.5 million, respectively. Net change in unrealized appreciation compared to the same periods in the prior period was primarily due to changes in the capital markets.

Net Change in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations totaled $10.7 million, or $0.16 per share and $(71.9) million, or $(1.10) per share, respectively. The increase in net assets from operations for the three months ended December 31, 2023 compared to prior year was primarily due to a decrease in the net unrealized depreciation in the portfolio primarily driven by changes in market conditions.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our liquidity and capital resources are derived primarily from cash flows from operations, including investment sales and repayments, and income earned, proceeds of securities offerings and debt financings. Our primary use of funds from operations includes investments in portfolio companies and payments of interest expense, fees and other operating expenses we incur. We have used, and expect to continue to use, our debt capital, proceeds from the rotation of our portfolio and proceeds from public and private offerings of securities to finance our investment objectives and operations. As of December 31, 2023, in accordance with the 1940 Act, with certain limited exceptions, we are only allowed to borrow amounts such that we are in compliance with a 150% asset coverage ratio requirement after such borrowing, excluding SBA debentures pursuant to exemptive relief from the SEC received in June 2011. This “Liquidity and Capital Resources” section should be read in conjunction with the "Forward-Looking Statements" section above.

On February 5, 2019, our stockholders approved the application of the modified asset coverage requirements set forth in Section 61(a)(2) of the 1940 Act, as amended by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 (which includes the SBCAA) as approved by our board of directors on November 13, 2018. As a result, the asset coverage requirement applicable to us for senior securities was reduced from 200% (i.e., $1 of debt outstanding for each $1 of equity) to 150% (i.e., $2 of debt outstanding for each $1 of equity), subject to compliance with certain disclosure requirements.

As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, our asset coverage ratio, as computed in accordance with the 1940 Act was 171%% and 195%, respectively.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the annualized weighted average cost of debt inclusive of the fee on the undrawn commitment and amendment costs on the Truist Credit Facility, and amortized upfront fees on SBA debentures, 2026 Notes and 2026 Notes-2, was 6.4% and 5.5%, respectively.

As of December 31, 2023, we had the multi-currency Truist Credit Facility for up to $475.0 million (decreased from $500.0 million in September 2023), which may be further increased up to $750.0 million in borrowings with certain lenders and Truist Bank, acting as administrative agent, Regions Bank, acting as an additional multicurrency lender, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., acting as syndication agent for the lenders. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, we had $388.5 million and $212.4 million, respectively, in outstanding borrowings under the Truist Credit Facility. The Truist Credit Facility had a weighted average interest rate of 7.7% and 7.7%, respectively, exclusive of the fee on undrawn commitment, as of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023. The Truist Credit Facility is a revolving facility with a stated maturity date of July 29, 2027 and pricing set at 235 basis points over SOFR (or an alternative risk-free floating interest rate index). As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, we had $86.5 million and $262.6 million of unused borrowing capacity under the Truist Credit Facility, respectively, subject to leverage and borrowing base restrictions. The Truist Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of our assets. As of December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with the terms of the Truist Credit Facility.

As of December 31, 2023, we had $150.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 2026 Notes outstanding. Interest on the 2026 Notes is paid semi-annually on May 1 and November 1, at a rate of 4.50% per year, commencing November 1, 2021. The 2026 Notes mature on May 1, 2026, and may be redeemed in whole or in part at our option subject to a make-whole premium if redeemed more than three months prior to maturity. The 2026 Notes are direct unsecured obligations and rank pari passu in right of payment with future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness. The 2026 Notes are structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and other obligations of any of our subsidiaries, financing vehicles, or similar facilities.

As of December 31, 2023, we had $165.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 2026 Notes-2 outstanding. Interest on the 2026 Notes-2 is paid semi-annually on May 1 and November 1, at a rate of 4.0% per year, commencing May 1, 2022. The 2026 Notes-2 mature on November 1, 2026, and may be redeemed in whole or in part at our option subject to a make-whole premium if redeemed more than three months prior to maturity. The 2026 Notes-2 are direct unsecured obligations and rank pari passu in right of payment with future unsecured unsubordinated indebtedness. The 2026 Notes-2 are structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and other obligations of any of our subsidiaries, financing vehicles, or similar facilities.

We may raise additional equity or debt capital through both registered offerings off our shelf registration statement and private offerings of securities, by securitizing a portion of our investments, among other sources. Any future additional debt capital we incur, to the extent it is available, may be issued at a higher cost and on less favorable terms and conditions than the Truist Credit Facility, 2026 Notes, 2026 Notes-2 and SBA debentures. Furthermore, the Truist Credit Facility availability depends on various covenants and restrictions. The primary use of existing funds and any funds raised in the future is expected to be for repayment of indebtedness, investments in portfolio companies, cash distributions to our stockholders or for other general corporate or strategic purposes such as a stock repurchase program.

We have entered into certain contracts under which we have material future commitments. Under our Investment Management Agreement, which was reapproved by our board of directors (including a majority of our directors who are not interested persons of us or the Investment Adviser) in February 2023 PennantPark Investment Advisers serves as our investment adviser. Payments under our Investment Management Agreement in each reporting period are equal to (1) a management fee equal to a percentage of the value of our average adjusted gross assets and (2) an incentive fee based on our performance.

Under our Administration Agreement, which was most recently reapproved by our board of directors, including a majority of our directors who are not interested persons of us, in February 2024 the Administrator furnishes us with office facilities and administrative services necessary to conduct our day-to-day operations. The Administration Agreement was amended on July 1, 2022. If requested to provide significant managerial assistance to our portfolio companies, we or the Administrator will be paid an additional amount based on the services provided. Payment under our Administration Agreement is based upon our allocable portion of the Administrator’s overhead in performing its obligations under our Administration Agreement, including rent and our allocable portion of the costs of our Chief Compliance Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Counsel and their respective staffs.

If any of our contractual obligations discussed above are terminated, our costs under new agreements that we enter into may increase. In addition, we will likely incur significant time and expense in locating alternative parties to provide the services we expect to receive under our Investment Management Agreement and our Administration Agreement. Any new investment management agreement would also be subject to approval by our stockholders.

In accordance with the 1940 Act, with certain limited exceptions, PennantPark Investment is only allowed to borrow amounts such that our required 150% asset coverage ratio is met after such borrowing. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, we excluded the principal amounts of our SBA debentures from our asset coverage ratio pursuant to SEC exemptive relief. In 2011, we received exemptive relief from the SEC allowing us to modify the asset coverage ratio requirement to exclude the SBA debentures from the calculation. Accordingly, our ratio of total assets on a consolidated basis to outstanding indebtedness may be less than 150% which, while providing increased investment flexibility, also increases our exposure to risks associated with leverage.

As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, we had cash and cash equivalents of $36.9 million and $38.8 million, respectively, available for investing and general corporate purposes. We believe our liquidity and capital resources are sufficient to allows us to effectively operate our business.

For the three months ended December 31, 2023, our operating activities used cash of $155.1 million and our financing activities provided cash of $153.2 million. Our operating activities used cash primarily due to our investment activities and our financing activities provided cash primarily from borrowings under the Truist Credit Facility.

For the three months ended December 31, 2022, our operating activities used cash of $9.6 million and our financing activities used cash of $14.8 million. Our operating activities used cash primarily due to our investment activities and our financing activities used cash primarily due to repayments under the Truist Credit Facility.

PennantPark Senior Loan Fund, LLC

In July 2020, we and Pantheon formed PSLF, an unconsolidated joint venture. PSLF invests primarily in middle-market and other corporate debt securities consistent with its strategy. PSLF was formed as a Delaware limited liability company. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, PSLF had total assets of $920.7 million and $872.8 million, respectively and its investment portfolio consisted of debt investments in 93 and 90 portfolio companies, respectively. As of the same dates, we and Pantheon had remaining commitments to fund first lien secured debt of $22.4 million and $22.4 million, respectively, and equity interest of $14.5 million and $14.5 million, respectively, in PSLF. As of December 31, 2023, at fair value, the largest investment in a single portfolio company in PSLF was $21.5 million and the five largest investments totaled $99.7 million. As of September 30, 2023, at fair value, the largest investment in a single portfolio company in PSLF was $19.7 million and the five largest investments totaled $97.5 million. PSLF invests in portfolio companies in the same industries in which we may directly invest.

We provide capital to PSLF in the form of subordinated notes and equity interests. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, we and Pantheon owned 60.5% and 39.5%, respectively, of each of the outstanding subordinated notes and equity interests of PSLF. As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, our investment in PSLF consisted of subordinated notes of $102.3 million and $102.3 million, respectively, and equity interests of $58.6 million and $58.6 million, respectively.

We and Pantheon each appointed two members to PSLF’s four-person Member Designees’ Committee, or the Member Designees’ Committee. All material decisions with respect to PSLF, including those involving its investment portfolio, require unanimous approval of a quorum of the Member Designees’ Committee. Quorum is defined as (i) the presence of two members of the Member Designees’ Committee; provided that at least one individual is present that was elected, designated or appointed by each of us and Pantheon; (ii) the presence of three members of the Member Designees’ Committee, provided that the individual that was elected, designated or appointed by each of us or Pantheon, as the case may be, with only one individual present shall be entitled to cast two votes on each matter; and (iii) the presence of four members of the Member Designees’ Committee shall constitute a quorum, provided that two individuals are present that were elected, designated or appointed by each of us and Pantheon.

Additionally, PSLF, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, or PSLF Subsidiary, has entered into a $325.0 million (increased from $225.0 million on September 2, 2022) senior secured revolving credit facility, or the PSLF Credit Facility, with BNP Paribas, which bears interest at SOFR (or an alternative risk-free interest rate index) plus 260 basis points during the investment period and is subject to leverage and borrowing base restrictions.

In March 2022, PSLF completed a $304.0 million debt securitization in the form of a collateralized loan obligation, or the “2034 Asset-Backed Debt”. The 2034 Asset-Backed Debt is secured by a diversified portfolio of PennantPark CLO IV, LLC., a wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of PSLF, consisting primarily of middle market loans and participation interests in middle market loans. The 2034 Asset-Backed Debt is scheduled to mature in April 2034. On the closing date of the transaction, in consideration of PSLF’s transfer to PennantPark CLO IV, LLC. of the initial closing date loan portfolio, which included loans distributed to PSLF by certain of its wholly owned subsidiaries and us, PennantPark CLO IV, LLC. transferred to PSLF 100% of the Preferred Shares of PennantPark CLO IV, LLC. and 100% of the Subordinated Notes issued by PennantPark CLO IV, LLC.

On July 26, 2023, CLO VII , LLC ("CLO VII") completed a $300 million debt securitization in the form of a collateralized loan obligation (the "2035 Debt Securitization" or "2035 Asset-Backed Debt"). The 2035 Asset-Backed Debt is secured by a diversified portfolio consisting primarily of middle market loans. The 2035 Debt Securitization was executed through a private placement of: (i) $151.0 million Class A-1a Notes maturing 2035, which bear interest at the three-month SOFR plus 2.7%, (ii) $20.0 million Class A-1b Loans 2035, which bear interest at 6.5%, (iii) $12.0 million Class A-2 Senior Secured Floating Rate Notes due 2035, which bear interest at the three-month SOFR plus 3.2%, (iv) $21.0 million Class B Senior Secured Floating Rate Notes due 2035, which bear interest at the three-month SOFR plus 4.1%, (v) $24.0 million Class C Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes due 2035, which bear interest at the three-month SOFR plus 4.7%, (vi) $18.0 million Class D Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes due 2035, which bear interest at the three-month SOFR plus 7.0%. As of December 31, 2023 there was $246.0 million of external 2035 Asset-Backed Debt.

Below is a summary of PSLF’s portfolio at fair value:

($ in thousands)

Below is a listing of PSLF’s individual investments as of December 31, 2023 ($ in thousands):

48

(1) Represents floating rate instruments that accrue interest at a predetermined spread relative to an index, typically the applicable Secured Overnight Financing Rate, or “SOFR” or Prime rate or

“P”. The spread may change based on the type of rate used. The terms in the Schedule of Investments disclose the actual interest rate in effect as of the reporting period. SOFR loans are typically

indexed to a 30-day, 60-day, 90-day or 180-day SOFR rate (1M S, 2M S, 3M S, or 6M S, respectively), at the borrower’s option. All securities are subject to a SOFR or Prime rate floor where a

spread is provided, unless noted. The spread provided includes PIK interest and other fee rates, if any.

(2) Valued based on PSLF’s accounting policy.

Below is a listing of PSLF’s individual investments as of September 30, 2023 ($ in thousands):

50

(1) Represents floating rate instruments that accrue interest at a predetermined spread relative to an index, typically the applicable Secured Overnight Financing Rate, or “SOFR” or Prime rate or

“P”. The spread may change based on the type of rate used. The terms in the Schedule of Investments disclose the actual interest rate in effect as of the reporting period. SOFR loans are typically

indexed to a 30-day, 60-day, 90-day or 180-day SOFR rate (1M S, 2M S, 3M S, or 6M S, respectively), at the borrower’s option. All securities are subject to a SOFR or Prime rate floor where a

spread is provided, unless noted. The spread provided includes PIK interest and other fee rates, if any.

(2) Valued based on PSLF’s accounting policy.

Below are the consolidated statements of assets and liabilities for PSLF,($ in thousands):

(1) As of December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, PSLF had zero and $0.5 million, respectively, of unfunded commitments to fund investments.

Below are the consolidated statements of operations for PSLF, ($ in thousands):

(1) No management or incentive fees are payable by PSLF.

Distributions

In order to be treated as a RIC for federal income tax purposes and to not be subject to corporate-level tax on undistributed income or gains, we are required, under Subchapter M of the Code, to annually distribute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to our stockholders out of the assets legally available for distribution of an amount generally at least equal to 90% of our investment company taxable income, determined without regard to any deduction for dividends paid.

Although not required for us to maintain our RIC tax status, in order to preclude the imposition of a 4% nondeductible federal excise tax imposed on RICs, we must distribute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to our stockholders in respect of each calendar year of an amount at least equal to the Excise Tax Avoidance Requirement. In addition, although we may distribute realized net capital gains (i.e., net long-term capital gains in excess of net short-term capital losses), if any, at least annually, out of the assets legally available for such distributions in the manner described above, we have retained and may continue to retain such net capital gains or investment company taxable income, contingent on our ability to be subject to tax as a RIC, in order to provide us with additional liquidity.

During the three months ended December 31, 2023, we declared distributions of $0.21 per share, for total distributions of $13.7 million. For the same periods in the prior year, we declared distributions of $0.17 per share, for total distributions of $10.8 million. We monitor available net investment income to determine if a return of capital for tax purposes may occur for the fiscal year. To the extent our taxable earnings fall below the total amount of our distributions for any given fiscal year, stockholders will be notified of the portion of those distributions deemed to be a tax return of capital. Tax characteristics of all distributions will be reported to stockholders subject to information reporting on Form 1099-DIV after the end of each calendar year and in our periodic reports filed with the SEC.

Effective October 2023, we changed from a quarterly distribution to a monthly distribution. We intend to continue to make monthly distributions to our stockholders. Our monthly distributions, if any, are determined by our board of directors.

We maintain an “opt out” dividend reinvestment plan for our common stockholders. As a result, if we declare a distribution, then stockholders’ cash distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock, unless they specifically “opt out” of the dividend reinvestment plan so as to receive cash distributions.

We may not be able to achieve operating results that will allow us to make distributions at a specific level or to increase the amount of these distributions from time to time. In addition, we may be limited in our ability to make distributions due to the asset coverage ratio for borrowings applicable to us as a BDC under the 1940 Act and/or due to provisions in future credit facilities. If we do not distribute at least a certain percentage of our income annually, we could suffer adverse tax consequences, including possible loss of our ability to be subject to tax as a RIC. We cannot assure stockholders that they will receive any distributions at a particular level.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, No. 2020-04, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting.” The guidance provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to contract modifications, hedging relationships and other transactions, subject to meeting certain criteria, that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of the reference rate reform. ASU 2020-04 is effective for all entities as of March 12, 2020 through June 30, 2023. The FASB approved an (optional) two year extension to December 31, 2024, for transitioning away from LIBOR. The Company utilized the optional expedients and exceptions provided by ASU 2020-04 during the three months ended December 31, 2023, the effect of which was not material to the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.

In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, “Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326)”, which is intended to address issues identified during the post-implementation review of ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” The amendment, among other things, eliminates the accounting guidance for troubled debt restructurings by creditors in Subtopic 310-40, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors”, while enhancing disclosure requirements for certain loan refinancings and restructurings by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2022. The Company has adopted the new accounting standard implementing appropriate controls and procedures, the effect of which was not material to the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.

In June 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-03, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions, or ASU 2022-03, which changed the fair value measurement disclosure requirements of ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, or ASC 820. The amendments clarify that a contractual restriction on the sale of an equity security is not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, is not considered in measuring fair value. The amendments also clarify that an entity cannot, as a separate unit of account, recognize and measure a contractual sale restriction. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods therein. Early application is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of this new accounting standard will have on its consolidated financial statements, but the impact of the adoption is not expected to be material.

Share Repurchase Program

On February 9, 2022, we announced a share repurchase program which allows us to repurchase up to $25 million of our outstanding common shares in the open market at prices below our net asset value as reported in our then most recently published consolidated financial statements. During the three months ended December 31, 2022, we did not make any repurchases of our common shares. The program expired on March 31, 2023.

We are subject to financial market risks, including changes in interest rates. As of December 31, 2023, our debt portfolio consisted of 96% variable-rate investments and 4% fixed rate investments. The variable-rate loans are usually based on a SOFR (or an alternative risk-free floating interest rate index) rate and typically have durations of three months after which they reset to current market interest rates. Variable-rate investments subject to a floor generally reset by reference to the current market index after one to nine months only if the index exceeds the floor. In regards to variable-rate instruments with a floor, we do not benefit from increases in interest rates until such rates exceed the floor and thereafter benefit from market rates above any such floor. In contrast, our cost of funds, to the extent it is not fixed, will fluctuate with changes in interest rates since it has no floor.

Assuming that the most recent Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities was to remain constant, and no actions were taken to alter the interest rate sensitivity, the following table shows the annualized impact of hypothetical base rate changes in interest rates:

Although management believes that this measure is indicative of our sensitivity to interest rate changes, it does not adjust for potential changes in the credit market, credit quality, size and composition of the assets on the Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities and other business developments that could affect net increase in net assets resulting from operations, or net investment income. Accordingly, no assurances can be given that actual results would not differ materially from those shown above.

Because we borrow money to make investments, our net investment income is dependent upon the difference between the rate at which we borrow funds and the rate at which we invest these funds as well as our level of leverage. As a result, 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 or net assets.

We may hedge against interest rate and foreign currency fluctuations by using standard hedging instruments such as futures, options and forward contracts or our Truist Credit Facility subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act and applicable commodities laws. While hedging activities may insulate us against adverse changes in interest rates and foreign currencies, they may also limit our ability to participate in the benefits of lower interest rates or higher exchange rates with respect to our portfolio of investments with fixed interest rates or investments denominated in foreign currencies. During the periods covered by this Report, we did not engage in interest rate hedging activities or foreign currency derivatives hedging activities.

As of the quarter ended December 31, 2023, we, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act). As disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023, a material weakness was previously identified in connection with our internal control over financial reporting relating to the review of quarterly cash and investment reconciliations. Additionally, a material weakness was identified in the operation of our internal controls over financial reporting relating to our review of interest income and non-accrual classification of investments. We have taken steps to remediate these material weaknesses, which steps have included (i) enhancing existing controls to ensure the appropriate review of the quarterly cash and investment reconciliation and that it is adequately documented so as to provide evidence that the controls are operating effectively (ii) enhancing existing controls to ensure that our internal controls over financial reporting relating to our analysis of interest income and assessment of investments for classification as non-accrual investments are operating effectively and (iii) enhancing policies and procedures to demonstrate a commitment to improving our overall control environment.

Taking the above efforts into consideration, our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures for the quarter ended December 31, 2023 were effective and provided reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our periodic filings with the SEC 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 Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. However, in evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of such possible controls and procedures.

Other than disclosed in this Item 4, there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2023 that have materially affected, or 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 consider carefully the factors discussed below, as well as in Part I “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023, filed on December 8, 2023, which could materially affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. The risks as in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, are not the only risks facing PennantPark Investment Corp. 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.