Q4 2023 WhiteHorse Finance Inc Earnings Call
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Operator: Please stand by; your program is about to begin. If you need assistance during your conference today, please press star zero. Good afternoon.
Good afternoon, My name is Angela and I will be your conference operator today.
Angela: My name is Angela, and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to the WhiteHorse Finance fourth quarter and full year 2023 earnings conference call. Our hosts for today's call are Stuart Aronson, Chief Executive Officer, and Joyson Thomas, Chief Financial Officer. This call is being recorded and will be made available for replay beginning at 4 p.m. Eastern time. The replay dial and number is 402-220-2985. No passcode is required.
At this time I would like to welcome everyone to the Whitehorse Finance fourth quarter and full year 2023 earnings conference call.
Our hosts for today's call are Stuart Aronson, Chief Executive Officer enjoys some Thomas Chief Financial Officer.
Today's call is being recorded and will be made available for replay beginning at four P. M Eastern time.
The replay dial in number is four zero to 220 to 985, no passcode is required.
At this time, all participants have been placed in a listen only mode and the floor will be opened for your questions. Following the presentation.
Angela: At this time, all participants have been placed in a listen-only mode, and the floor will be open for your questions following the presentation. If you would like to ask a question at that time, please press star 1 on your telephone keypad. If you wish to remove yourself from the queue, press star 2. It is now my pleasure to turn the floor over to Jacob Moeller of Rose & Company. Please go ahead.
If you would like to ask a question at that time. Please press star one on your telephone keypad.
If you wish to remove yourself from the queue Press star two.
It is now my pleasure to turn the floor over to Jacob Muller of Roes and company. Please go ahead.
Thank you operator, and thank you everyone for joining us today to discuss Whitehorse finances fourth quarter 2023 earnings results before we begin I would like to remind everyone that certain statements, which are not based on historical facts made during this call, including any statements relating to financial gotten maybe deemed forward looking statements within the mean.
Jacob Moeller: Thank you, Operator, and thank you, everyone, for joining us today to discuss WhiteHorse Finance's fourth quarter 2023 earnings results. Before we begin, I would like to remind everyone that certain statements, which are not based on historical facts made during this call, including any statements relating to financial guidance, are not subject to the authority of the Board of Trustees, and may be deemed forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Because these forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainty, these are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. WhiteHorse Finance assumes no obligation or responsibility to update any forward-looking statement.
The private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Because these forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward looking statements.
Whitehorse Finance assumes no obligation or responsibility to update any forward looking statements.
Jacob Moeller: Today's speakers may refer to material from the WhiteHorse Finance fourth quarter 2023 earnings presentation, which was posted to our website this morning. With that, allow me to introduce WhiteHorse Finance's CEO, Stuart Aronson. Stuart, you may begin.
Today's speakers may refer to material from the Whitehorse Finance fourth quarter 2023 earnings presentation, which was posted to our website. This morning.
With that allow me to introduce Whitehorse finances, CEO Stuart Aronson.
You may begin.
Yeah.
Stuart D. Aronson: Thank you, Jacob, and good afternoon, everybody. Thank you for joining us today. As you're aware, we issued our earnings this morning prior to the market open, and I hope you've had a chance to review our results for the period ending December 31st, 2023, which can also be found on our website. On today's call, I'll begin by addressing our fourth quarter results and current market conditions. Then, Joyce and Thomas, our Chief Financial Officer, will discuss our performance in greater detail, after which we will open the floor for questions.
Thank you Jacob and good afternoon everybody.
Thank you for joining us today.
As you're aware, we issued our earnings this morning prior to market open and I hope you've had a chance to review our results for the period ending December 31, 2023, which can also be found on our website.
On today's call I'll begin by addressing our fourth quarter results and current market conditions.
And Joyce and Thomas our Chief Financial Officer will discuss our performance in greater detail after which we will open the floor for questions.
This afternoon I'm pleased to report.
Stuart D. Aronson: This afternoon, I'm pleased to report strong performance for the fourth quarter of 2023. Q4 GAAP Net Investment Income and Core Net Interest Income was $10.6 million, or $0.45.6 per share, which more than covered our quarterly base dividend of 38.5 cents per share. This represents a slight decline from the Q3 gap and core NII of $10.8 million or 46.5 cents per share. NAV per share at the end of Q4 was $13.63, representing a 1.7% decrease from the prior quarter. NAV per share was negatively impacted by $6.8 million of net mark-to-market losses on our portfolio.
<unk> performance for the fourth quarter of 2023 Q.
Q4, GAAP net investment income and core net interest income was $10 6 million or $45.06 per share.
Which more than covered our quarterly base dividend of 38, and a half cents per share.
This represents a slight decline from the Q3, GAAP and core NII of $10 8 million or 46, and a half cents per share.
NAV per share at the end of Q4 was $13 63, representing a one 7% decrease from the prior quarter.
<unk> per share was negatively impacted by a $6 8 million of net net mark to market losses on our portfolio.
Stuart D. Aronson: Markdowns were related to company-specific performance and were partially offset by markups across four credits, as I will discuss shortly. Turning to our portfolio activity, in Q4, gross capital deployments totaled $56.9 million, with $54.1 million funding eight new transactions and the remaining $2.8 million funding add-ons to existing portfolio investments. This was the highest level of origination activity in 2023 but was slightly below quarters in the past year, fourth quarters in the past year. Origination constraints were primarily a lack of deal opportunities with a slow 2023 M&A environment leading to a tight deal market.
Markdowns were related to company specific performance and were partially offset by markups across four credits as I will discuss shortly.
Turning to our portfolio activity in Q4 gross capital deployments totaled $56 9 million.
With $54 1 million funding eight new transactions and the remaining $2 8 million funding add ons to existing portfolio investments.
This was the highest level of origination activity in 2023, but it was slightly below quarters in past year fourth quarters in past years.
Origination constraints were primarily a lack of deal opportunities with a slow 2023, M&A environment, leading to a type deal market.
Half of our new originations in Q4 were sponsor deals and the other half are non sponsor deals.
Stuart D. Aronson: Half our new originations in Q4 were sponsor deals, and the other half were non-sponsor deals. The sponsor deals had an average leverage of approximately 4.3 times debt to Eva Dodd. I note that these deals were all first lien loans with spreads of 575 basis points or higher and had an average all-in rate of 12%. During the quarter, the BDC transferred four of these new deals and one add-on to the Ohio STRS-JV, totaling $27.6 million, and that was done in exchange for cash. I will discuss activity within the JV in more detail shortly.
The sponsor deals had an average leverage of approximately four three times debt to EBITDA.
I note that these deals were all first lien loans with spreads of 575 basis points or higher and haven't had an average all in rate of 12%.
During the quarter the BDC transferred four of these new deals and one add on to the Ohio S. T. R S JV totaling $27 $6 million.
And that was done in exchange for cash.
I will discuss activity within the JV in more detail shortly.
At the end of Q4 more than 97% of our debt portfolio was first lien senior secured and following fourth quarter originations our portfolio mix was approximately two third sponsor and one third non sponsored.
Stuart D. Aronson: At the end of Q4, more than 97% of our debt portfolio was first lien, senior secured, and following fourth quarter originations, our portfolio mix was approximately two-thirds sponsor and one-third non-sponsor. In Q4, total repayments and sales were $34.9 million, primarily driven by two complete and two partial realizations. In addition, there were $0.6 million in net repayments made on revolver commitments. As addressed in our last earnings call, repayment activity remained elevated during the first half of 2020 relative to the first half of 2023, and we anticipate this trend to continue through 2024 based on a pickup in M&A activities and the ability of some companies to refinance at lower rates. Currently, we have visibility into a number of likely repayments in Q1, and as of today, we have already had $39 million in full repayments and sales across five investments. We will seek to redeploy this capital into attractive investments this quarter and going forward. With repayments and JV transfers offsetting our modest deployment activity, the company's net effective leverage remained at 1.16 times, unchanged from the prior quarter.
In Q4 total repayments and sales were $34 9 million, primarily driven by two complete and two partial realizations in.
In addition, there were 0.6 million and net repayments made on revolver commitments.
As addressed in our last earnings call prepayment activity remained elevated during the first half of 2020, sorry relative to the first half of 2023, and we anticipate this trend to continue through 2024 based on a pickup in M&A M&A activities and the ability of some companies to refinance at lower rates currently.
We have visibility into a number of likely repayments in Q1 and as of today have already had $39 million in full repayments and sales across five investments, we will seek to redeploy this capital into attractive investments this quarter and going forward.
With repayments and JV transfers offsetting our modest deployment activity the company's net effective leverage remained at 116 times.
Unchanged from the prior quarter. This is still below the lower end of our target leverage range and so long as our portfolio remains heavily concentrated in first lien loans, which have lower risk than second lien loans, we expect to continue to run the BDC at up to 135 times leverage.
Stuart D. Aronson: This is still below the lower end of our target leverage range, and so long as our portfolio remains heavily concentrated in first lien loans, which have lower risks than second lien loans, we expect to continue to run the BDC at up to 1.35 times leverage. With that in mind, I'll now step back to bring our entire investment portfolio into focus. After the effects of net repayments and the STRS-JB transfers, as well as $6.8 million in net mark-to-market changes and the $1.2 million of accretion, the fair value of our investment portfolio was $696.2 million at the end of Q4. This compares to the fair value of our portfolio of $706.8 million at the end of the previous quarter. The weighted average effective yield on our income-producing debt investments increased to 13.7% as of the end of Q4, up from 13.6% at the end of Q3. The variance was primarily driven by a slight increase in the portfolio's base rate and spread.
With that in mind, I'll now step back to bring our entire investment portfolio and to focus.
After the effects of debt repayments and the S. T. R. S JV transfers as well as $6 8 million in net mark to market changes.
And the $1 2 million of accretion the fair value of our investment portfolio was $696 2 million at the end of Q4.
This compares to our portfolio of fair value of $706 8 million at the end of the previous quarter.
The weighted average effective yield on our income producing debt investments increased to 13, 7% as of the end of Q4 up from 13, 6% at the end of Q3 <unk>.
The variance was primarily driven by a slight increase in the portfolio as base rate and spread.
Stuart D. Aronson: We continue to utilize the STRS-JV successfully; the JV generated investment income for the BDC of approximately $4.2 million in Q4, up from $3.9 million in Q3. As of December 31st, the fair value of the JV's portfolio was $312.2 million, and at the end of Q4, the JV's portfolio had an average unlevered yield of 12.4%. This compares to 12.5% at the end of Q3 and 11.3% at the end of Q4 2022. The year-over-year increase in our unleveraged yield is primarily due to rising base rates.
We continue to utilize the S. T. R. S. JV successfully the JV generated investment income to the BDC of approximately $4 2 million in Q4 up from $3 9 million in Q3.
As of December 31.
Fair value of the Jv's portfolio was $312 2 million and at the end of Q4, the Jv's portfolio had an average unlevered yield of 12, 4%.
This compares to 12, 5% at the end of Q3 and 11, 3% at the end of Q4 2022.
The year over year increase in our Unlevered yield is primarily due to rising base rates.
Stuart D. Aronson: The JV is currently producing an average annual return on equity in the mid-teens for the BDC. We believe WhiteHorse's equity investment in the JV provides attractive returns for our shareholders. Transitioning to the BTC's portfolio more broadly, there were some markdowns on the portfolio during Q4 with mark-to-market declines being driven by our investments in American Crafts, Atlas Purchaser, which is also known as Aspect Software, and Claridge Products. These declines were partially offset by not marked-to-market increases in various portfolio investments.
The JV is currently producing an average annual return on equity in the mid teens to the BDC, We believe white horses equity investment in the JV provides attractive returns for our shareholders.
Transitioning to the Bdc's portfolio more broadly there was some markdowns in the portfolio during Q4 with mark to market declines being driven by our investments in American crafts.
Outlets purchaser.
Which is also known as aspect software and Claridge products.
These declines were partially offset by mark to market increases in various portfolio investments.
As we've shared before we continue to see some pressure on our portfolio and the general economy, primarily in the consumer segment.
Stuart D. Aronson: As we've shared before, we continue to see some pressure on our portfolio and the general economy, primarily in the consumer segment. We remain vigilant in monitoring our portfolio companies. We have not seen demand weakness in other sectors, including general industrial B2B, healthcare, TMT, or financial services.
We remain vigilant in monitoring our portfolio of companies, we have not seen demand weakness in other sectors, including general industrial B to B healthcare TMT or financial services.
Stuart D. Aronson: Additionally, our portfolio includes mostly non-cyclical or light-cyclical borrowers, and we have no direct exposure to oil and gas, auto, new home construction, or restaurants. The vast majority of our deals have strong covenant protection, and we are finding that, in most cases, private equity firms we partner with are supporting their credits with new cash or contingent equity as needed. No new credits were moved to non-accrual during the quarter, and at the end of Q4, investments in non-accrual totaled 2% of our total portfolio at fair value, compared with 2.8% at the end of Q3. Across the portfolio generally, we see balanced activity in terms of credit performance and remain overall pleased with the health of our debt portfolio. American Crafts remains on a non-accrual status.
Additionally, our portfolio includes mostly non cyclical or lifecycle borrowers and we have no direct exposure to oil and gas.
Auto new home construction or restaurants.
The vast majority of our deals have strong covenant protection and we are finding that in most cases private equity firms. We partnered with are supporting their credits with new cash or contingent equity as needed.
No new credits were moved to non accrual during the quarter and at the end of Q4 investments on non accrual totaled 2% of our total portfolio at fair value compared with two 8% at the end of Q3.
Across the portfolio generally we see balanced activity in terms of credit performance and remain overall pleased with the health of our debt portfolio.
American craft remains on non accrual status the turnaround of this troubled asset is taking longer than anticipated and.
Stuart D. Aronson: The turnaround of this troubled asset is taking longer than anticipated, and the investment was marked down by $7.5 million, or approximately $0.32 per share, in terms of our portfolio NAV and Q4. Our investments in PlayMonster, Crown Brands, and ArcServe remain on non-accrual as well. Subsequent to the end of Q4, we and other lenders took control of ARCServe, and we believe that the asset has potential upside in the coming 18 to 24 months as we implement changes in management and company structure to optimize profitability. We hope to successfully exit our crown investment this quarter. Finally, a markdown was taken on Atlas Purchaser Aspect Software, which we believe to be appropriate given the company's ongoing restructuring. The asset remains on accrual status, and we continue to monitor the situation.
And the investment was marked down by $7 5 million or approximately 32 per share in terms of our portfolio N V in Q4.
Our investments in play Monster Crown brands in ARX or remain on non accrual as well.
Subsequent to the end of Q4, we and other lenders took control of arc served we believe that the asset has potential upside in the coming eight to 2018 to 24 months as we implement changes in management and company structure to optimize profitability.
We hope to successfully exit our crown investment this quarter.
Finally, a markdown was taken on Atlas purchaser aspect software, which we believe to be appropriate given the company's ongoing restructuring.
The asset remains on accrual status and we continue to monitor the situation.
Stuart D. Aronson: We remain optimistic in our ability to effectively navigate and turn around troubled investments, illustrated by the successful exit of our investment in ARCOL during Q2, which generated a 1.2 times return on invested capital. WhiteHorse and HIG Capital have a proven ability to leverage our collective resources and expertise to turn around investments with the objective of minimizing losses and capital preservation. We are actively working with our troubled portfolio companies to improve their performance. Turning to the broader lending market, the markets in Q4 were characterized by increased liquidity from both direct lenders and banks. As a result, pricing in the market for sponsor deals fell by about 50 basis points on average.
We remain optimistic in our ability to effectively navigate and turnaround troubled investments illustrated by the successful exit of our investment in our coal during Q2, which generated a one two times return on invested capital y.
Whitehorse in H I G capital have a proven ability to leverage our collective resources and expertise to turnaround investments with the objective of minimizing losses and capital preservation.
We're actively working with our troubled portfolio companies to improve their performance.
Turning to the broader lending market the markets in Q4 were characterized by increased liquidity from both direct lenders and banks.
As a result pricing in the market for sponsored deals fell by about 50 basis points on average.
As we enter 2020 for this market activity has continued to ramp up with additional liquidity becoming available in the marketplace.
We are seeing people have a more optimistic view on the economy than they had in most of the 2023 and as a result of our competitors are becoming more aggressive on both leverage and price including for companies that we see as moderate and deep cyclicals.
Stuart D. Aronson: As we enter 2024, this market activity has continued to ramp up with additional liquidity becoming available in the marketplace. We are seeing people have a more optimistic view of the economy than they had in most of 2023. And as a result, our competitors are becoming more aggressive on both leverage and price, including for companies that we see as moderate and deep cyclical. The aggressiveness of the on-the-run sponsor market right now is reminiscent of 2021 in terms of both price and structure. Pricing on upper mid-market deals has come down to between SOFR 475 and SOFR 550.
The aggressiveness of the on the run sponsor market right now is reminiscent of 2021 in terms of both price and structure.
Pricing on upper mid market deals has come down to between <unk> 75, and so for $5 50.
We are seeing so for 500 to 575 as pricing for mid market deals and.
And so for $5 50 to 625 for lower mid market deals.
In the lower mid market were seeing deals being leveraged four to five times.
We'll leverage on mid market deals is higher is four 5% to six times and were seeing deals getting done for cyclicals at four five to five five times leverage, which we view as very aggressive for a cyclical credit.
Stuart D. Aronson: We are seeing SOFR 500 to 575 as pricing for mid-market deals, and SOFR 550 to 625 for lower mid-market deals. In the lower mid-market, we're seeing deals being leveraged four to five times. While leverage on mid-market deals is higher at four and a half to six times, and we're seeing deals getting done for cyclicals at four and a half to five and a half times leverage, which we view as very aggressive for a cyclical credit. Loan-to-Value, which in Q3 was typically under 50%, is now up to 55% in the lower mid-market and 60% to 65% in the mid-market And the non-sponsor sector deals are still consistently at loan-to-value under 50%, with an average of 40% to 45% loan-to-value.
Loan to value, which in Q3 was typically under 50% is now up to 55% in the lower mid market and 60% to 65% in the mid market and upper mid market.
In the non sponsor sector deals are still consistently at loan to value of under 50% with an average 40% to 45% loan to value.
Additionally, pricing has remained stable in the non sponsor market and so for $6 50 to $8 50 with leverage multiples of three to four five times.
And the current market environment, we are being very cautious in our deal sourcing with the on the run sponsors, especially in our focus remains on the off the run market and non sponsor market where market terms remained comparatively more attractive.
Our view on the economy in 2024 and stuff because unemployment remains low and because we believe there are underlying pressures on wages and raw materials that are still raising prices. We don't think the fed is going to hit its 2% inflation target as quickly as other people seem to think we would maintain our perspective that the market is.
Stuart D. Aronson: Additionally, pricing has remained stable in the non-sponsor market at SOFR 650 to 850 with leverage multiples of three to four and a half times. In the current market environment, we are being very cautious in our deal sourcing with on-the-run sponsors, especially, and our focus remains on the off-the-run market and the non-sponsor market, where market terms remain comparatively more attractive. Our view of the economy in 2024 is that because unemployment remains low and because we believe there are underlying pressures on wages and raw materials that are still raising prices, we don't think the Fed is going to hit its 2 percent inflation target as quickly as other people seem to think. We maintain our perspective that the market is overly optimistic about rate cuts and expect that higher rates will slow down the economy. We don't foresee a recession, but at a minimum, we expect slower growth through 2024 and into 2025.
Really optimistic on rate cuts and expected higher rates will slow down the economy we.
We don't foresee a recession, but at a minimum we expect slower growth through 2024 and into 2025.
And an elevated market environment like what we're seeing thus far in 2024, we derive particular benefits from our sourcing model, which allows us to source deals and corners of the market, where there is less competition, including the off the run sponsor market in the non sponsor market.
Our three tier sourcing architecture continues to provide the BDC with differentiated capabilities and we continue to derive significant advantages from the shared resources and affiliation with H I G, who is a leader in the mid market and lower mid market.
Whitehorse has 22 origination professionals located in our level of original markets across North America.
The strength of our origination pipeline enables us to be conservative in our deal selection.
Stuart D. Aronson: In an elevated market environment, like what we are seeing thus far in 2024, we derive particular benefit from our sourcing model, which allows us to source deals in corners of the market where there is less competition, including the off-the-run sponsor market and the non-sponsor market. Our three-tier sourcing architecture continues to provide the BDC with differentiated capabilities, and we continue to derive significant advantages from the shared resources and affiliation with HIG, which is a leader in the mid-market and lower mid-market. WhiteHorse has 22 origination professionals located in 11 regional markets across North America.
As a result, we believe that the deals we are originating are more attractive than the general market in terms of risk and return in general we're seeing continuing rebound in terms of both deal volume and quality and our pipeline activity levels remained solid.
Following repayment activity in Q4, the BDC balance sheet is approximately $50 million of capacity for new assets at our target leverage range. The JV has approximately $40 million of capacity supplementing the bdc's existing capacity.
With the move in the market still set of prices so for 625 and below our targeted for the JV and those priced at 625 and above our targeted for the BDC balance sheet.
We're actively working on 12, new mandates and add on acquisitions of the new platform mandates all are non sponsor deals and while there can be no assurance that any of these deals will close all these mandates would fit within the BDC or our JV should we elect to transact subsea.
Stuart D. Aronson: The strength of our origination pipeline enables us to be conservative in our deal selection. As a result, we believe that the deals we are originating are more attractive than the general market in terms of risk and return. In general, we're seeing a continuing rebound in terms of both deal volume and quality, and our pipeline activity levels remain solid. Following repayment activity in Q4, the BDC balance sheet has approximately $50 million of capacity for new assets at our target leverage range. The JV has approximately $40 million in capacity, supplementing the BDC's existing capacity.
Subsequent to quarter end, we have closed five new originations and three add ons to existing portfolio of companies with several more pending.
Of the new originations one investment was transferred to the JV during the first quarter.
In short activity continues to pick up and we remain cautiously optimistic that market conditions remain conducive for Whitehorse, despite sustained concerns of economics softening we've.
We believe we are well positioned to continue to source attractive opportunities navigate economic challenges due to our rigorous underwriting standards and continue delivering to our shareholders.
Stuart D. Aronson: With the move in the markets, deals that are priced at SOFR 625 and below are targeted for the JV, and those priced at 625 and above are targeted for the BDC balance sheet. We're actively working on 12 new mandates and add-on acquisitions. Of the new platform mandates, all are non-sponsored deals.
As a result in our Q3 earnings release, we announced that the board of directors of the BDC approved an increase to our quarterly base dividend from 37 per share up to $38.05 per share starting in Q4 of this year.
Stuart D. Aronson: And while there can be no assurance that any of these deals will close, all these mandates would fit within the BDC or our JV should we elect to transact. Subsequent to quarter end, we have closed five new originations and three add-ons to existing portfolio companies, with several more pending. Of the new originations, one investment was transferred to the JV during the first quarter. In short, activity continues to pick up, and we remain cautiously optimistic that market conditions will remain conducive to WhiteHorse. Despite sustained concerns of economic softening.
<unk> approved a decrease in the base management fee rate paid to H I G. Whitehorse advisers, the BDC adviser from 2% to 175% effective effective January one 2024.
This will have a further positive effect on our financial results and our ability to cover the increased base dividend on a go forward basis.
Before I conclude I'd like to take a moment to address the recent passing of our friend and fellow Board member Kevin Burke, Kevin provided invaluable counsel throughout his tenure on the board and we are grateful for his dedication and service to Whitehorse finance. It was truly a privilege to have worked alongside Kevin and we are deeply saddened by his passing.
Stuart D. Aronson: We believe we are well-positioned to continue to source attractive opportunities, navigate economic challenges with our rigorous underwriting standards, and continue delivering to our shareholders. As a result, in our Q3 earnings release, we announced that the Board of Directors of the BDC approved an increase to our quarterly base dividend from $0.37 per share up to $0.38.5 per share starting in Q4 of this year. The Board approved a decrease in the base management fee rate paid to HIG WhiteHorse Advisors, the BDC advisor, from 2% to 1.75%, effective January 1st, 2024.
With that I'll turn the call over to Joyce for additional performance details and a review of our portfolio composition Jason.
Thanks, Stuart and thank you everyone for joining today's call.
During the quarter, we recorded GAAP net investment income and core NII of $10 $6 million or $45 six per share.
This compares with Q3, GAAP NII and core NII of $10 8 million or $46 <unk> per share and our previously declared a quarterly distribution of $38 five per share.
Q4 fee income increased quarter over quarter to approximately zero point $6 million in Q4 from zero point $4 million. In Q3, Q4 amounts are highlighted by a <unk> $4 million prepayment fee generated from the full realization of our investment in Aon and a small amendment fee for motivational marketing.
Stuart D. Aronson: This will have a further positive effect on our financial results and our ability to cover the increased base dividend on a go-forward basis. Before I conclude, I'd like to take a moment to address the recent passing of our friend and fellow board member, Kevin Burke. Kevin provided invaluable counsel throughout his tenure on the board, and we are grateful for his dedication and service to WhiteHorse Finance. It was truly a privilege to have worked alongside Kevin, and we are deeply saddened by his passing.
For the quarter, we reported net increase and net assets, resulting from operations of $3 4 million.
Our risk ratings during the quarter showed that 77, 7% of our portfolio positions carried either a one or two rating slightly lower than 78, 2% in the prior quarter.
Joyson C. Thomas: With that, I'll turn the call over to Joyson for additional performance details and a review of our portfolio composition. Thanks, Stuart, and thank you, everyone, for joining today's call. During the quarter, we recorded Gap Net Investment Income and Core NII of $10.6 million, or 45.6 cents per share.
As a reminder, a one rating indicates that the company has seen its risk of loss reduced relative to initial expectations.
Two rating indicates the company's performing according to initial expectations.
Regarding the JV, specifically, we continued to grow its portfolio at.
As Stuart mentioned earlier, we transferred four new deals and one add on transaction totaling $26 6 million.
At December 31, 2023, the <unk> portfolio held positions in 34 portfolio companies with an aggregate fair value of $312 2 million compared to 32 portfolio companies at the aggregate fair value of $313 million as of September 32023.
Joyson C. Thomas: This compares with Q3 GAAP NI and Core NI of $10.8 million, or $0.465 per share, and our previously declared quarterly distribution of $0.385 per share. Q4 fee income increased quarter over quarter to approximately $0.6 million in Q4 from $0.4 million in Q3. Q4 amounts are highlighted by a $0.4 million prepayment fee generated from the full realization of our investment in Aon and a small amendment fee from Motivational Marketing. For the quarter, we reported a net increase in net assets resulting from operations of $3.4 million. Our risk ratings during the quarter showed that 77.7% of our portfolio positions carried either a 1 or 2 rating, slightly lower than 78.2% in the prior quarter.
Subsequent to the end of the fourth quarter, accompanied transferred three investments the JV, including one new portfolio company.
The investment in the JV continues to be accretive to the Bdc's earnings generating a mid teens return on equity.
As we've noted in prior calls the yield on our investment in the JV may fluctuate period over period as a result of a number of factors, including the timing and amount of additional capital investments and changes in asset yields in the underlying portfolio as well as the overall credit performance of the Jv's investment portfolio.
Turning to our balance sheet, we had cash resources of approximately $24 $5 million at the end of Q4, including $13 7 million and restricted cash and approximately $138 million of undrawn capacity available under our revolving credit facility.
Joyson C. Thomas: As a reminder, a 1 rating indicates that a company has seen its risk of loss reduced relative to initial expectations, and a 2 rating indicates the company is performing according to initial expectations. Regarding the JV specifically, we continue to grow its portfolio. As Stuart mentioned earlier, we transferred four new deals and one add-on transaction totaling $26.6 million. As of December 31, 2023, the JV's portfolio helped positions in 34 portfolio companies with an aggregate fair value of $312.2 million, compared to 32 portfolio companies at an aggregate fair value of $313 million as of September 30th, 2025. Subsequent to the end of the fourth quarter, the company transferred three investments to the JV, including one new portfolio.
As of December 31, 2023, the company's asset coverage ratio for BARDA mounts as defined by the 940 Act was 181% which was above the minimum asset coverage ratio of 150%.
Our Q4 net effective debt to equity ratio after adjusting for cash on hand was 116 times consistent with the prior quarter.
Before I conclude and open up the quality questions I'd like to again highlight our distributions. This morning, we announced that our board declared our first quarter 2020 for distribution of $38 five per share, which is consistent with the previous quarter.
As mentioned earlier by Stuart in the fourth quarter of 2023, we increased our quarterly base distribution to $38 <unk> per share, which represents a cumulative increase of eight 5% as compared with the inaugural $35 five per share dividend that was declared at the Bdc's IPO.
These actions speak to both the consistent strength of the platform as well as a resilient deal sourcing capabilities and being able to create a well balanced portfolio generating consistent current income.
Joyson C. Thomas: The investment in the JV continues to be accretive to the BDC's earnings, generating a mid-teens return on equity. (Inaudible) Changes in asset yields in the underlying portfolio as well as the overall credit performance of the JV's investment portfolio. Turning to our balance sheet, we had cash resources of approximately $24.5 million at the end of Q4, including $13.7 million in restricted cash and approximately $138 million of undrawn capacity available under a revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2023, the company's asset coverage ratio for borrowed amounts, as defined by the 1940 Act, was 181 percent, above the minimum asset coverage ratio of 150. Q4's Net Effective Debt-to-Equity Ratio, after adjusting for cash on hand, was 1.16 times, consistent with the prior quarter.
As was announced in the beginning of 2023.
Our board also implemented a formulaic supplemental quarterly distribution.
For the fourth quarter. The board did not declare a supplemental distribution, which is consistent with our formulaic supplemental distribution framework.
We believe this framework allows us to maximize distributions to our shareholders, while preserving the stability of our NAV.
Factors that we believe to be an important driver of shareholder economics over time.
In assessing distributions. We also consider our taxable income related to amounts that we have distributed during the year when setting our overall dividend.
Our current estimate of undistributed undistributed taxable income sometimes referred to as our spillover as at the end of Q4 2023 is approximately $32 million. We continue to believe that having a healthy level of spillover income is beneficial to the long term stability of our base dividend. We will continue to monitor our undistributed earnings and balance these level.
Against prudent capital management considerations.
The upcoming distribution the 46th consecutive quarterly distribution paid since our IPO in December 2012, with all distributions at or above a ray of $35 <unk> per share per quarter will be payable on April <unk> 2024 to stockholders of record as of March 22024.
Joyson C. Thomas: Before I conclude and open up the call to questions, I'd like to again highlight our distributions. This morning, we announced that our board declared a first quarter 2024 distribution of 38.5 cents per share, which is consistent with the previous quarter. As mentioned earlier by Stuart, in the fourth quarter of 2023, we increased our quarterly base distribution to $0.385 per share, which represents a cumulative increase of 8.5% as compared with the inaugural $0.355 per share dividend that was declared at the BDC's IPO. These actions speak to both the consistent strength of the platform, as well as our resilient deal sourcing capabilities and being able to create a well-balanced portfolio generating consistent, current Our board also implemented a formulaic supplemental quarterly distribution. For the fourth quarter, the Board did not declare a Supplemental Distribution, which is consistent with our formulaic Supplemental Distribution Framework.
As we said previously we will continue to evaluate our quarterly distribution both in the near and medium term based on the core earnings power of our portfolio. In addition to other relevant factors that may warrant consideration.
With that I'll now turn the call over to the operator for your questions operator.
At this time, if you would like to ask a question. Please press star one on your telephone keypad.
May remove yourself from the queue at any time by pressing star two.
Once again that is star one to ask a question.
Our first question comes from Mickey <unk> with Ladenburg.
Good afternoon, Steward and Joyce.
Hi, one question this afternoon Stuart.
You you mentioned, how aggressive the market has become and spread with tighter spreads in the more liquid end of the continue.
Continuum and your focus now on direct origination, which as we know is harder to source and has a longer lead time. So are you comfortable in.
Joyson C. Thomas: We believe this framework allows us to maximize distributions to our shareholders while preserving the stability of our NAV, a factor that we believe will be an important driver of shareholder economics over time. In assessing distributions, we also consider our taxable income relative to amounts that we have distributed during the year when setting our overall dividend. Our current estimate of undistributed taxable income, sometimes referred to as our spillover, as of the end of Q4 2023 is approximately $32 million. We continue to believe that having a healthy level of spillover income is beneficial to the long-term stability of our base dividends. We will continue to monitor our undistributed earnings and balance these levels against prudent capital management considerations. The upcoming distribution is the 46th consecutive quarterly distribution paid since its IPO in December 2012.
The bdcs ability to potentially replace all of these.
Payments that youre likely to see with direct origination deal flow in this environment that we're experiencing.
Well Mickey I'd start by sharing with you that in 2022, and 2023, which were very favorable markets for lenders to originate deals and we focused very heavily more than most of our competitors on getting call protection.
And on our non sponsor deals we got call protection of three to four years and on many of our sponsor deals we got call protection of three years or at least two years.
So we think that that while repayments will pick up this year.
Due to M&A activity, we think the repayments due to pricing will be mitigated by the call protection that we got in 2022 and 2023.
Joyson C. Thomas: All distributions at or above a rate of $0.355 per share per quarter will be payable on April 2, 2024 to stockholders or record as of March 22, 2024. As we said previously, we will continue to evaluate our quarterly distribution, both in the near and medium term, based on the core earnings power of our portfolio, in addition to other relevant factors that may warrant consideration. With that, I'll now turn the call over to the operator for your questions. Operator? At this time, if you would like to ask a question, please press star 1 on your telephone keypad. You may remove yourself from the queue at any time by pressing star 2.
Our overall volumes in the pipeline right now are pretty solid and what we hear from the market as they are likely to pick up.
Based on higher M&A activity being driven by the more aggressive debt markets.
And the Ah <unk>.
Strong desire of Lps to get our returns of capital from private equity firms.
So we do think that there will be.
Plenty of volume to replace deals to get repaid but.
Deals that have been put on in a higher interest rate environment may be replaced with assets that have lower spreads. So in the JV that could look like deals that were on a 600 being replaced with deals at $5 50, or $5 75, and on the BDC balance sheet that could look like deals that were at 700 being <unk>.
Operator: Once again, that is star number one to ask a question. Our first question comes from Mickey Schleien with Ladenburg. Good afternoon, Stuart and Joyson. Stuart, hi.
Mickey Max Schleien: One question this afternoon, Stuart. You mentioned how aggressive the market has become and spread with tighter spreads and at the more liquid end of the continuum, and you're focused now on direct origination, which, as we know, is harder to source and has a longer lead time. So are you comfortable in the BDC's ability to potentially replace all these repayments that you're likely to see with direct origination deal flow in this environment that we're experiencing? Well, Mickey, I'd start by sharing with you that in 2022 and 2023, which were very favorable markets for lenders to originate deals in, we focused very heavily, more than most of our competitors, on getting call protection. And on our non-sponsored deals, we got call protection for three to four years. And on many of our sponsored deals, we got call protection for three years or at least two years.
Placed with deals that are 650 or 675.
But theres definitely been.
A tightening of the pricing market in.
In the sponsor sector and as we've always shared with you the non sponsor sector remains pretty stable with pricing on deals typically between so for 650 and so for 900.
Thanks, Stuart that's very helpful. That's my only question this afternoon.
Thank you Mickey.
The next question comes from Bryce Rowe with B Riley.
Hi, Thanks, good afternoon.
Hello, Brian.
Hey, Stuart.
Let me, let me kind of start with the <unk>.
Stuart D. Aronson: So we think that, while repayments will pick up this year due to M&A activity, we think the repayments due to price will be mitigated by the call protection that we got in 2022 and 2023. Our overall volumes in the pipeline right now are pretty solid, and what we hear from the market is that they're likely to pick up based on higher M&A activity being driven by the more aggressive debt markets and the strong desire of LPs to get returns of capital from private equity firms. So we do think that there will be plenty of volume to replace deals that get repaid, but deals that have been put on in a higher interest rate environment may be replaced with assets that have a lower spread.
Some of the commentary around quarter to date first quarter to date repayment activity.
Five deals.
Curious if if those are driven by kind of <unk>.
Price refinance or where they are they kind of slated for or where are they slated for maturity here in 'twenty, four or maybe even driven by some kind of M&A activity.
Well, Brian one of the deals was a deal that was maturing.
And the sponsor owner of the company not only wanted to refinance the debt, but wanted to take a dividend.
And given the credit.
Profile of the company.
We did not feel comfortable giving the company a dividend.
Whereas the other lenders that were in the company did feel comfortable doing it.
Stuart D. Aronson: So in the JV, that could look like deals that were at $600 being replaced with deals at $550 or $575. And on the BDC balance sheet, that could look like deals that were at $700 being replaced with deals that are $650 or $675. But there's definitely been a tightening of the pricing market in the sponsor sector, and as we've always shared with you, the non-sponsor sector remains pretty stable, with pricing on deals typically between SOFR 650 and SOFR 900. Thanks, Stuart. That's very helpful. That's my only question this afternoon.
So that deal refinance, but we chose to exit.
The other deals that repaid we're mostly based on M&A activity.
Our companies were being sold and we were getting repaid on the sale of those companies.
Okay. That's helpful and if you look at kind of your schedule of investments.
I guess, a decent amount of maturities in 'twenty four.
How do you how do you how do you feel about that.
Those those kind of getting to the finish line do you think they can get refinanced within the BDC or.
You kind of foresee them.
Mickey Max Schleien: Thank you, Mickey. The next question comes from Bryce Rowe with B Riley. Thanks, good afternoon. Hello, Bryce. Hey, Stuart.
Moving outside of the BDC.
We have certain assets that we like for the long term.
Based on our expectation of a <unk>.
Bryce Wells Rowe: Let me start with some of the commentary around quarter to date, first quarter to date repayment activity; you noted five deals; curious if those were driven by kind of, Bryce, refinance, or were they slated for maturity here in 24, or maybe even driven by some kind of M&A activity? Well, Bryce, one of the deals was a deal that was maturing. And the sponsor owner of the company not only wanted to refinance the debt but wanted to take a dividend. And given the credit profile of the company, we did not feel comfortable giving the company a dividend, whereas the other lenders that were in the company did feel comfortable doing it.
<unk> economy in 2024, and 25 and for those situations, we would hope to.
Refinance those companies.
Or follow them to new owners, but we have other companies, where we see long term trend lines that we are.
Less optimistic about.
And.
As these companies come up for refinancing, we will probably not definitely but probably choose to exit.
So there really is a mix.
Based on our credit outlook.
For each of the deals but the market is.
Very aggressive right now.
And anything that we have that's maturing that is performing and marked at a normal level.
We feel highly confident that the market will refinance those transactions with no problem.
Stuart D. Aronson: So that deal was refinanced, but we chose to exit. The other deals that repaid were mostly based on M&A activity, where companies were being sold, and we were getting repaid on the sale of those companies. Okay, that's helpful. And if you look at kind of your schedule of investments, you know, you have a, I guess, a decent amount of maturities in 24. How do you, how do you, how do you feel about, you know, those kinds of getting to the finish line?
Okay. Okay.
Let's say you noted the capacity both at the BDC level and at the JV does that capacity, let's say, let's ask this way.
Today at the JV is it taken up with the new deals that have already been transferred in there.
And is that kind of based on the I guess the current.
Bryce Wells Rowe: Do you think they can get refinanced within the BDC, or do you kind of foresee them moving, moving outside of the BDC? We have certain assets that we like for the long term, based on our expectation of a muted economy in 2024 and 2025, and in those situations, we would hope to refinance those companies or follow them to new owners, but we have other companies where we see long-term trend lines that we are less optimistic about, and as these companies come up for refinancing, we will probably, not definitely, but probably choose to exit. So there really is a mix based on our credit outlook for each of the deals. But the market is very aggressive right now, and anything that we have that's maturing, that is performing, and is marked at a normal level, we feel highly confident that the market will refinance those transactions with no problem.
Equity capital or borrowing base within the within the JV and do you have kind of more more firepower behind that in terms of being able to.
Investor commit more capital into the JV.
I believe that the numbers of $50 million for the BDC balance sheet and $40 million for the JV take into account all of the recent transfers that we have done.
They do not take into account the deals that are in pipeline.
So we're looking to close and again all the new deals in pipeline that are looking to close our non sponsor deals and all of those deals are priced at so for 650 or higher.
In fact, one of the non sponsor deals will be closed here in Q1.
It was at.
Bryce Wells Rowe: So you noted the capacity, you know, both at the BDC level and at the JV level. Does that capacity, or let's say, let's ask this way, the capacity at the JV, is it, is it taken up with the new deals that have already been kind of transferred in there? And is that kind of based on the, I guess, the current equity capital or borrowing base within the JV? And do you have more firepower behind that in terms of being able to invest or commit more capital into the JV?
Modest leverage and modest loan to value.
But because of our origination network, we were able to source an opportunity at so for plus 900.
So that was Thats a first lien deal at at normal what we would call bank terms.
So very very good origination on that yes, yes, okay.
Last one for me.
You mentioned, some some markups within the portfolio, what's what's driving the markups.
But no specific just any thoughts around the markets would be helpful. Thanks.
Stuart D. Aronson: I believe that the numbers of $50 million for the BDC balance sheet and $40 million for the JV take into account all the recent transfers that we have done. However, they do not take into account the deals that are in the pipeline that we are looking to close. And again, all the new deals in the pipeline that are looking to close are non-sponsored deals, and all of those deals are priced at SOFR 650 or higher. In fact, one of the non-sponsored deals that we closed here in Q1 was at modest leverage and modest loan-to-value, but because of our origination network, we were able to source an opportunity at SOFR plus 900. So that's a first lien deal at normal, what we would call bank terms. So, very, very good origination on that. That's one for me.
Yes, there are certain accounts, where there is an improving credit situation.
I mentioned earlier that Crown brands, we may be exiting this quarter.
And we have negotiated and.
On that that if it happens will be.
That deal was marked up in the last quarter and if we get this transaction done is contemplated.
It will be at a price thats, even higher than the current mark.
Got it okay, all right I'll jump back in queue. Thanks Stuart.
Adam Thank you Bryce.
The next question comes from Erik Zwick with Husky group.
Good afternoon.
Hello, Eric I wanted to I wanted to start first with a question on the pipeline, which you've mentioned.
Bryce Wells Rowe: You mentioned some markups within the portfolio. What's driving the markups? Any thoughts around the markups would be helpful.
Number of attractive opportunities on it and a number of in process now, but wondering if you could maybe provide a little additional commentary in terms of.
Stuart D. Aronson: Yeah, there are certain accounts where there's an improving credit situation. I mentioned earlier that Crown Brands, we may be exiting this quarter, and we have negotiated an exit on that. If it happens, that deal was marked up in the last quarter, and if we get this transaction done as contemplated, it will be at a price that's even higher than the current mark. Got it, okay. All right, I'll jump back in the queue.
The mix in terms of new versus add on opportunities and also whether there is any kind of common themes are noticing in times of the type of opportunities.
<unk> kind of by industry or region of the country that you are seeing.
I believe that the mix is about five new platforms and about seven add on opportunities.
Bryce Wells Rowe: Thanks, Stuart. No problem. Thank you, Bryce. The next question comes from Erik Zwick with Hufty Group. Good afternoon. Hello, Erik.
The add on opportunities.
For the most part price above the current market.
Erik Edward Zwick: I wanted to start first with a question on the pipeline, which you've mentioned has a number of attractive opportunities on it and a number in process now, but wondering if you could maybe provide a little additional commentary in terms of, you know, the mix in terms of new versus add-on opportunities, and also whether there are any kind of common themes you're noticing in terms of the type of opportunities and or, you know, kind of by industry I believe that the mix is about five new platforms and about seven add-on opportunities. The add-on opportunities. For the most part, prices are above the current market because those deals were done in a higher priced market, although borrowers are looking for adjustments to price based on the fact that the market has become more aggressive.
Because those deals were done in a higher priced market.
Although borrowers are looking for.
Adjustments to price based on the fact that the market has become.
More aggressive.
As I mentioned before all of the new pipeline activity.
That is mandated right now are non sponsor deals.
And all of those non sponsor deals are priced at $6 50, and above so would be targeted for the BDC balance sheet.
And there is no particular sector that we are finding more attractive I would say what we're seeing there was recently a deal that was brought to us.
For a company that we thought was a good company and a scaled company, but it was a cyclical company and on a cyclical we don't like putting more than four times leverage on the company and this deal came to us at five and a quarter times leverage.
Stuart D. Aronson: As I mentioned before, all of the new pipeline activity that is mandated right now are non-sponsored deals, and all of those non-sponsored deals are priced at $6.50 and above, so they would be targeted for the BDC balance sheet, and There is no particular sector that we are finding more attractive. I would say what we are seeing; there was recently a deal that was brought to us for a company that we thought was a good company and a scalable company, but it was a cyclical company. And on a cyclical, we don't like putting more than four times leverage on the company.
And about 65% loan to value.
And we just found that to be a.
Stunningly high leverage multiple and loan to value for a cyclical company heading into what we believe is a weakening economy.
So despite the fact that that deal was well priced at $6 50 or above we walked away from that opportunity.
So we are sticking to our knitting as it regards our conservative credit outlook.
And the non sponsor deals that we're working on I believe are all levered between three and four times, so modest leverage good good cash flow coverages and companies that we believe will b.
Stuart D. Aronson: And this deal came to us at five and a quarter times leverage and about 65% loan to value. And we just found that to be a stunningly high leverage multiple and loan to value for a cyclical company heading into what we believe is a weakening economy. And so, despite the fact that that deal was well priced at 650 or above, we walked away from that opportunity. So we are sticking to our knitting as it regards a conservative credit outlook.
Either non cyclical or light cyclicals.
Thank you I appreciate the additional details there and then just looking at slide eight of the presentation I noticed that the average investment size and the portfolio has come down about $1 million since three quarter third quarter. R. 22. So curious if that's something that you guys have actively been trying to do to work that position.
Size smaller or if it's more reflective as you said kind of that the larger end of the market, becoming more competitive and just curious would you expect that trend to continue.
Erik Edward Zwick: And the non-sponsored deals that we're working on, I believe, are all levered between three and four times. So modest leverage, good cash flow coverage, and companies that we believe will be either non-cyclical or light cyclical. Thank you. I appreciate the additional details you provided there. And then just looking at slide 8 of the presentation, I noticed that the average investment size in the portfolio has come down about a million dollars since the third quarter of 22. So, curious if that's something that you guys have actively been trying to do to work the position size smaller or if it's more reflective, as you said, kind of the larger end of the market becoming more competitive. And, just curious, would you expect that trend to continue?
Just thinking that certainly smaller deals makes it a little bit harder to kind of run in place and keep the portfolio size. The same but also potentially had some benefits in terms of lower concentration to particular positions.
It's about your thoughts there.
Yes for a significant portion of the last two years. The BDC has either been full or almost full and not able to take on new deals. So are we.
We actually feel good about the fact that we're getting some repayments and getting the opportunity to put new deals into the BDC.
We.
Definitely believe with our three tier sourcing architecture that we are well positioned to continue to bring in.
Stuart D. Aronson: Just thinking that certainly smaller deals make it a little bit harder to kind of run in place and keep the portfolio size the same, but they also potentially have some benefits in terms of lower concentration to a particular position. So, I'm curious about your thoughts there. Yeah, for a significant portion of the last two years, the BDC has either been full or almost full and not able to take on new deals. So we actually feel good about the fact that we're getting some repayments and getting the opportunity to put new deals into the BDC. We
A solid flow of deals.
We are definitely as I mentioned earlier focused in on.
The off the run market and the non sponsor market, which sometimes do smaller deals to sometimes do larger deals.
I would say that in general over the last quarter. You are correct that the deals we were doing were more lower mid market deals and as a result, the average asset allocation to the BDC was a little bit lower.
Stuart D. Aronson: We definitely believe with our three-tier sourcing architecture that we are well positioned to continue to bring in a solid flow of deals. We are definitely, as I mentioned earlier, focused on the off-the-run market and the non-sponsor market, which sometimes do smaller deals and sometimes do larger deals. I would say that, in general, over the last quarter, you're correct that the deals we were doing were more lower-middle-market deals, and as a result, the average asset allocation to the BDC was a little bit lower. But in general, the most important thing is that we are not putting any large concentrations in the BDC.
But in general the most important thing is.
We are not putting any large concentrations in the BDC.
I first joined we had positions that were <unk>.
35% or $40 million.
Which on a BDC of our size we thought it was just too much of a concentration and we are going to keep.
Maximum allocations to no more than approximately $20 million going forward with an average allocation that will probably be.
Stuart D. Aronson: When I first joined, we had positions that were $35 or $40 million, which on a BDC of our size, we thought was just too much of a concentration. And we are going to keep maximum allocations to no more than approximately $20 million going forward with an average allocation that will probably be closer to $8 to $10 million to give us good diversity across the portfolio. Great. I appreciate the commentary. Thanks for taking my question. No problem. The next question comes from Melissa Wedel with J.P. Morgan. Hi.
Closer to $8 million to $10 million to give us good diversity across the portfolio.
Great I appreciate the commentary thanks for taking my questions.
No problem.
The next question comes from Melissa Wedel with JP Morgan.
Hi, Thanks for taking my questions today.
Its possible I missed that.
I wanted to check in with you about whether or not you provided a specific amount on that post quarter end.
Melissa Wedel: Thanks for taking my questions today. It's possible I missed this, but I wanted to check in with you about whether or not you provided a specific amount for the post-quarter-end new investment activity. I think you said there were $39 million of repayments subsequent to quarter end, but I'm not sure we got a total amount on the origination side. I think it was five deals closed, but Joyson, do you have how much volume, the new deals and add-on deals represented in this quarter so far? Yeah, in regards to new deployments during Q1, they approximated about $30 million. So I think the way to think about this right now is, as of the end of Q4, based on Stuart's earlier comments, we had about $50 million of capacity on the BDC balance sheet, taking into account the approximately $40 million of repayments during Q1. And then that gets offset by the 30 million deployments we just did in Q1, right now.
New investment activity I think you said there were $39 million of repayments.
Subsequent to quarter end I'm not sure we got a total amount on the origination side.
I think it was five deals closed, but Joyce and do you have how much volume the new deals and add on deals represented in this quarter so far.
Yeah and in regards to new deployments during during Q1 the approximated.
About $30 million, so I think the way to think about this right now.
As of the end of Q4 to Stuart's earlier comments, we had about $50 million of capacity on the BDC balance sheet, taking into account the approximately $40 million of repayments during Q1.
And then that gets offset by $30 million of deployments. We just did in Q1 currently right now so I think that's it that's the way to think about it.
Okay. Okay. That's really helpful. Thank you.
Wanted to also follow up.
Your comments on sort of the pipeline and it sounds like it's very clear.
Joyson C. Thomas: So I think that's the way to think about it. Okay. Okay. That's really helpful.
Melissa Wedel: Thank you. And I wanted to also follow up on your comments on sort of the pipeline. And it sounds like it's very clear based on your comments today that there is strong preference for the non-sponsored space just because of the terms, the pricing, the leverage levels you can get there right now. Would you say that that segment is developed, and the pipeline is developing as strongly as sort of the sponsored space? Or is it a little bit tougher to source those?
Based on your comments today that there's a strong preference for the non sponsored space just because of.
And the terms of the pricing the leverage levels you can get there right now.
Would you say that that segment is developed the pipeline is developing as strongly as startup of sponsored space or is it a little bit tougher Q sourced out thank.
Thank you.
Non sponsored business is always much harder to find much.
Stuart D. Aronson: Non-sponsored business is always much harder to find, much harder and longer to underwrite, and frankly, even more complicated from a portfolio perspective. That said, our experience, including during the COVID downturn, is that the non-sponsor deals that we do, because they're very conservatively structured and levered, have performed as well or better than our sponsor portfolio. So we are actively involved in sourcing those non-sponsor transactions. It is, frankly, harder to source them than it is to source the sponsor deals, which just sort of, you know, come out on a regular basis.
Much harder and longer to underwrite.
And frankly, even more complicated from a portfolio perspective.
That said our experience, including during the Covid downturn is that the non sponsored deals that we do because theyre very conservatively structured and levered.
<unk> have performed as well or better.
Then our sponsor portfolio.
So we are actively involved in sourcing those non sponsor effort those non sponsored transactions.
It is frankly harder to source them than it is to source the sponsor deals.
<unk> just sort of come.
Come out on a regular basis.
Stuart D. Aronson: But we have 22 originators in 11 locations across North America, many of whom understand that their primary responsibility is to source either non-sponsor or off-the-run sponsor deals. And those teams, due to the fact that we've had extremely low turnover over the past three years, are very experienced in their regions and more broadly, and our pipeline is solid at the moment. The pipeline is certainly not as large as it was in 2021 or even 2022, but it's similar to what it was in 2023.
But we have 22 originators.
In 11 locations across North America.
Many of whom understand that their primary responsibility is to source either non sponsor or off the run sponsor deals.
And those teams due to the fact that we've had extremely low turnover over the past three years.
Our very experienced.
In their regions and more broadly.
And our pipeline.
Is solid at the moment.
The pipeline is certainly not as large as it was in 2021 or.
Or even 2022.
But it's similar to what it was in 2023 and from what we hear in the marketplace with the more aggressive terms available in the financing market. There is more M&A more M&A activity.
Melissa Wedel: And from what we hear in the marketplace, with the more aggressive terms available in the financing market, there's more M&A activity going on, and that should feed both our sponsor and non-sponsor pipelines. That's really helpful. I appreciate it. One last one, if I could sneak it in there, in the non-sponsored space, you mentioned that I think the example that you gave where the owner wanted a dividend and to do a refi, you were comfortable with the refi, not the dividend, etc. It begs the question, in the non-sponsored space, what are you seeing the use of capital as right now? Is it a lot of refi activity, or are non-sponsored companies also engaging in M&A? Thank you. The non-sponsor deals that we're working on are primarily loans that are targeted to grow companies, either organically or through M&A activity. I don't think any of the mandated deals involve dividends. We are always very cautious about paying dividends to either private equity firms or to non-sponsor owners.
Going on and that should feed both our sponsor and non sponsor pipeline.
That's really helpful. I appreciate it yeah, one last one if I could sneak it in there.
In the non sponsored space you mentioned that I think that.
The example that you gave what the owner wanted to dividend.
We could do a refi you are comfortable with refi not the dividend et cetera.
The question in the non sponsored space what are you seeing.
Use of capital.
As being right now is it just a lot of refi activity or our non sponsored companies also engaging in M&A. Thank you.
The non sponsored deals that we're working on are primarily loans that are targeted to grow companies either organically or through M&A activity.
I don't think any of the mandated deals involve dividends.
We are always very cautious about doing dividends to either private equity firms or the non sponsor owners.
Stuart D. Aronson: But so these are primarily growth loans. And again, the pickup in M&A activity broadly across the market does serve both the non-sponsor and the sponsor deal flop. That makes sense. Thanks so much. This does conclude today's question and answer period. I will now turn the program back over to our presenters for any additional or closing remarks. I appreciate everyone spending time with us on the call today, and recognize that while the NII was very strong, the NAV did decrease for the quarter. We do believe that we mark deals on a realistic and conservative basis, which is not necessarily true across the entire BDC industry. And we try to be accurate each quarter based on the information we have. That said, the companies that we have marked down, we are using the expertise across WhiteHorse and across HIG to try to turn those companies around, and we do believe that there is a possibility of recovery and potentially significant recovery in both 2024 and 2025 on some of those accounts.
But so these are primarily growth loans and again the pickup in M&A activity broadly across the market.
Does serve both the non sponsor and sponsor deal flow.
Makes sense. Thanks, so much.
This does conclude today's question and answer period I will now turn the program back over to our presenters for any additional or closing remarks.
I appreciate everyone spending time with us on the call today.
Recognize that all of the NII.
Was very strong.
The NAV did decrease for the quarter.
We do believe that we mark deals on a realistic and conservative basis.
Which is not necessarily true through the entire BDC industry.
And we try to be accurate each quarter based on the information we have.
That said the.
Companies that we have markdown.
We are using the expertise across whitehorse and across AIG to try to turn those companies around and we do believe that there is a possibility of a recovery and potentially significant recovery.
In both 2024 and 2025 on some of those accounts. So we will work hard to continue to optimize the portfolio and as I said in my prepared remarks. The <unk> acquisition transaction was a good example of a deal that we had to own the company for three years, but were ultimately able to get out of that one.
Stuart D. Aronson: So we will work hard to continue to optimize the portfolio. And, as I said in my prepared remarks, the ARCO acquisition transaction was a good example of a deal where we had to own the company for three years, but we were ultimately able to get out of that one at a 1.2 times return on the original capital invested. And with hard work and, hopefully, some lucky luck, we hope to have similar types of recoveries on some of the other troubled assets we're dealing with right now.
A one two times return to the original capital invested and with.
With hard work and hopefully some fortunate luck.
We hope to have similar types of recoveries on some of the other troubled assets, we're dealing with right now.
Stuart D. Aronson: And that's it. I appreciate everyone's time. This does conclude today's program. Thank you for your participation. You may disconnect at any time, www.WhiteHorseFinance.com, and I'm going to go to the next one.
And thats. It I appreciate everyone's time, thank you very much.
This does conclude today's program. Thank you for your participation you may disconnect at any time.
Okay.
Okay.
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Operator: Thank you. Have a great week! See you guys next week. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye, www.WhiteHorseFinance.com Thanks for watching!
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Okay.
Hum.
Yeah.