Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY,
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Price range of common stock
Our common stock is traded on the
New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “SAR.” The following table lists the high and low closing sales prices for the Company’s
common stock and such closing sales prices’ percentage of premium or discount to the net asset value (“NAV”) for the
two most recent fiscal years and the current fiscal year to date.
Price Range
NAV(1)
High
Low
Percentage of High Closing Sales Price as a Premium (Discount) to NAV(2)
Percentage of Low Closing Sales Price as a Premium (Discount) to NAV(2)
Fiscal Year Ending February 28, 2023
First Quarter through May 3, 2022
$ *
$ 28.31
$ 25.01
*
*.
Fiscal Year Ended February 28, 2022
First Quarter
$ 28.70
$ 26.54
$ 22.66
(7.5 )%
(21.1 )%
Second Quarter
$ 28.97
$ 28.90
$ 25.70
(0.2 )%
(11.3 )%
Third Quarter
$ 29.17
$ 29.80
$ 27.19
2.2 %
(6.8 )%
Fourth Quarter
$ 29.32
$ 29.51
$ 25.20
0.6 %
(14.1 )%
Fiscal Year Ended February 28, 2021
First Quarter
$ 25.11
$ 24.97
$ 8.40
(0.6 )%
(66.5 )%
Second Quarter
$ 26.68
$ 18.71
$ 15.08
(29.9 )%
(43.5 )%
Third Quarter
$ 26.84
$ 22.67
$ 16.21
(15.5 )%
(39.6 )%
Fourth Quarter
$ 27.25
$ 24.20
$ 20.43
(11.2 )%
(25.0 )%
* Net asset value has not yet been calculated for this period.
(1) Net asset value per share is determined as of the last day
in the relevant quarter and therefore may not reflect the net asset value per share on the date of the high and low sales prices.
(2) Calculated as the respective high or low closing sales price
divided by the quarter end net asset value and subtracting 1.
61
Summarized Financial Highlights
The following table summarizes ten years of financial highlights:
For the year ended
Per share data
February 28,
2022
February 28,
2021
February 29,
2020
February 28,
2019
February 28,
2018
Net asset value at beginning of period
$ 27.25
$ 27.13
$ 23.62
$ 22.96
$ 21.97
Adoption of ASC 606
-
-
(0.01 )
-
Net asset value at beginning of period, as adjusted
27.25
27.13
23.62
22.95
21.97
Net investment income(1)
1.74
2.07
1.59
2.60
2.11
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments(1)
2.46
(0.74 )
4.56
0.03
0.82
Realized losses on extinguishment of debt*
(0.21 )
(0.01 )
(0.17 )
-
-
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
3.99
1.32
5.98
2.63
2.93
Distributions declared from net investment income
(1.93 )
(1.23 )
(2.21 )
(2.06 )
(1.90 )
Total distributions to stockholders
(1.93 )
(1.23 )
(2.21 )
(2.06 )
(1.90 )
Issuance of common stock above net asset value(2)
-
-
-
0.15
-
Repurchases of common stock(3)
0.01
0.13
-
-
-
Dilution(4)
-
(0.10 )
(0.26 )
(0.05 )
(0.04 )
Net asset value at end of period
$ 29.33
$ 27.25
$ 27.13
$ 23.62
$ 22.96
Per share market value at end of period
$ 27.47
$ 23.08
$ 22.91
$ 23.04
$ 21.86
Total return based on market value(5)(6)
28.19 %
7.63 %
9.28 %
16.11 %
5.28 %
Total return based on net asset value(6)(7)
15.88 %
7.31 %
26.22 %
13.33 %
14.45 %
Shares outstanding at end of period
12,131,350
11,161,416
11,217,545
7,657,156
6,257,029
Ratio/Supplemental data:
Net assets at end of period
355,780,523
304,185,770
304,286,853
180,875,187
143,691,367
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets(8)*
15.42 %
11.60 %
18.49 %
18.03 %
19.05 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(8)*
6.05 %
7.77 %
6.31 %
11.22 %
9.37 %
Portfolio turnover rate(5)(9)
33.59 %
25.26 %
36.82 %
35.26 %
19.73 %
For the year ended
Per share data
February 28,
2017
February 29,
2016
February 28,
2015
February 28,
2014
February 28,
2013
Net asset value at beginning of period
$ 22.06
$ 22.70
$ 21.08
$ 22.71
$ 24.94
Adoption of ASC 606
-
-
-
-
-
Net asset value at beginning of period, as adjusted
22.06
22.70
21.08
22.71
24.94
Net investment income(1)
1.94
1.91
1.80
1.80
1.57
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments(1)
0.30
0.18
0.24
(0.07 )
1.85
Realized losses on extinguishment of debt*
(0.26 )
-
-
-
-
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
2.24
2.09
2.04
1.73
3.42
Distributions declared from net investment income
(1.93 )
(2.36 )
(0.40 )
(2.65 )
(4.25 )
Total distributions to stockholders
(1.93 )
(2.36 )
(0.40 )
(2.65 )
(4.25 )
Issuance of common stock above net asset value(2)
-
-
-
-
-
Repurchases of common stock(3)
-
-
-
-
-
Dilution(4)
(0.14 )
(0.37 )
(0.02 )
(0.71 )
(1.40 )
Net asset value at end of period
$ 21.97
$ 22.06
$ 22.70
$ 21.08
$ 22.71
Per share market value at end of period
$ 22.74
$ 14.22
$ 15.76
$ 15.85
$ 17.02
Total return based on market value(5)(6)
80.83 %
4.27 %
1.63 %
9.10 %
36.67 %
Total return based on net asset value(6)(7)
12.62 %
11.10 %
10.09 %
8.75 %
16.12 %
Shares outstanding at end of period
5,794,600
5,672,227
5,401,899
5,379,616
4,730,116
Ratio/Supplemental data:
Net assets at end of period
127,294,777
125,149,875
122,598,742
113,427,929
107,437,874
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets(8)*
17.27 %
15.46 %
14.85 %
12.59 %
10.19 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(8)*
8.71 %
8.52 %
8.11 %
7.97 %
6.26 %
Portfolio turnover rate(5)(9)
43.76 %
26.22 %
31.28 %
37.82 %
17.30 %
* Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform
to current period presentation.
(1) Per share amounts are calculated using the weighted average
shares outstanding during the period.
62
(2) The continuous issuance of common stock may cause an incremental
increase in net asset value per share due to the sale of shares at the then prevailing public offering price and the receipt of net proceeds
per share by the Company in excess of net asset value per share on each subscription closing date. The per share data was derived by
computing (i) the sum of (A) the number of shares issued in connection with subscriptions and/or distribution reinvestment on each share
transaction date multiplied by (B) the differences between the net proceeds per share and the net asset value per share on each share
transaction date, divided by (ii) the total shares outstanding during the period.
(3) Represents the anti-dilutive impact on the net asset value
per share (“NAV”) of the Company due to the repurchase of common shares. See Note 11, Stockholders’ Equity. See Note 13, Dividend.
(4) Represents the dilutive effect of issuing common stock below
net asset value per share during the period in connection with the satisfaction of the Company’s annual RIC distribution requirement
and may include the impact of the different share amounts used for different items (weighted average basic common shares outstanding
for the corresponding year and actual common shares outstanding at the end of the year) in the per common share data calculation and
rounding impacts. See Note 12, Dividend.
(5) Ratios are not annualized.
(6) Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase
of common shares at the current market value on the first day and a sale at the current market value on the last day of the periods reported.
Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Company’s
DRIP. Total investment return does not reflect brokerage commissions.
(7) Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase
of common shares at the current net asset value on the first day and a sale at the current net asset value on the last day of the periods
reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under
the Company’s DRIP. Total investment return does not reflect brokerage commissions.
(8) Ratios are annualized. Incentive management fees included
within the ratio are not annualized.
(9) Portfolio turnover rate is calculated using the lesser of
year-to-date sales or year-to-date purchases over the average of the invested assets at fair value.
63
On September 24, 2014,
the Company announced the approval of an open market share repurchase plan that allowed it to repurchase up to 200,000 shares of its common
stock at prices below its NAV as reported in its then most recently published consolidated financial statements (the “Share Repurchase
Plan”). On October 7, 2015, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year and increased the number
of shares the Company is permitted to repurchase at prices below its NAV, as reported in its then most recently published consolidated
financial statements, to 400,000 shares of its common stock. On October 5, 2016, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase
Plan for another year to October 15, 2017 and increased the number of shares the Company is permitted to repurchase at prices below its
NAV, as reported in its then most recently published consolidated financial statements, to 600,000 shares of its common stock. On October
10, 2017, January 8, 2019 and January 7, 2020, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year to October 15,
2018, January 15, 2020 and January 15, 2021, respectively, each time leaving the number of shares unchanged at 600,000 shares of its common
stock. On May 4, 2020, our board of directors increased the Share Repurchase Plan to 1.3 million shares of common stock. On January 5,
2021, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year to January 15, 2022, leaving the number of shares unchanged
at 1.3 million shares of common stock. On January 4, 2022, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year
to January 15, 2023, leaving the number of shares unchanged. As of February 28, 2022, the Company purchased 508,435 shares of common stock,
at the average price of $19.35 for approximately $9.8 million pursuant to the Share Repurchase Plan. During the three months ended February
28, 2022 the Company purchased 50,00 shares of common stock, at the average price $25.86 for approximately $1.3 million pursuant to the
Share Repurchase Plan. During the year ended February 28, 2022 the Company purchased 99,623 shares of common stock, at the average price
$25.55 for approximately $2.5 million pursuant to the Share Repurchase Plan.
As shown in the table below,
as of February 28, 2022, we had purchased 508,435 shares of common stock pursuant to this repurchase plan.
Period
Total Number of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased
Average Price per
Share (or Unit)
Total Number of Shares
(or Units) Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs
Maximum Number
(or Approximate Dollar Value) of
Shares (or Units) that May Yet
Be Purchased Under the Plans
or Programs
March 1, 2015 through November 30, 2015
2,500
$ 15.59
2,500
397,500
December 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015
-
$ -
2,500
397,500
January 1, 2016 through January 31, 2016
4,200
$ 13.86
6,700
393,300
February 1, 2016 through February 29, 2016
18,717
$ 13.86
25,417
374,583
March 1, 2016 through March 31, 2016
16,282
$ 14.57
41,699
358,301
April 1, 2016 through April 30, 2016
7,858
$ 16.22
49,557
350,443
May 1, 2016 through May 31, 2016
21,357
$ 16.29
70,914
329,086
June 1, 2016 through June 30, 2016
8,310
$ 16.50
79,224
320,776
July 1, 2016 through July 31, 2016
19,212
$ 17.31
98,436
301,564
August 1, 2016 through August 31, 2016
40,058
$ 17.44
138,494
261,506
September 1, 2016 through September 30, 2016
40,221
$ 18.04
178,715
221,285
October 1, 2016 through October 31, 2016
27,076
$ 18.10
205,791
394,209
November 1, 2016 through November 30, 2016
8,600
$ 18.24
214,391
385,609
December 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016
4,100
$ 18.57
218,491
381,509
January 1, 2017 through February 29, 2020
-
-
218,491
381,509
March 1, 2020 through February 28, 2021
190,321
$ 18.96
408,812
891,188
March 1, 2021 through February 28, 2022
99,623
$ 25.55
508,435
791,565
Total
508,435
$ 19.35
64
Holders
The last reported closing sale
price of our common stock on May 3, 2022 was $ 25.61 per share, which represents a discount
of approximately 12.7 % to the NAV reported as of February 28, 2022. As of May 3, 2022, there
were 11 holders of record of our common stock.
Dividend Policy
Our distributions, if any, will be
determined by our board of directors and paid out of assets legally available for distribution. Any such distributions generally will
be taxable to our stockholders, including to those stockholders who receive additional shares of our common stock pursuant to our dividend
reinvestment plan. Prior to January 2009, we paid quarterly dividends to our stockholders. However, in January 2009, we suspended the
practice of paying quarterly dividends to our stockholders and thereafter, paid five annual dividend distributions (December 2013, 2012,
2011, 2010 and 2009) to our stockholders since such time, which distributions were made with a combination of cash and the issuance of
shares of our common stock as discussed more fully below.
On September 24, 2014, we announced
the recommencement of quarterly dividends to our stockholders. We have adopted a dividend reinvestment plan (“DRIP”) that
provides for reinvestment of our dividend distributions on behalf of our stockholders unless a stockholder elects to receive cash. As
a result, if our board of directors authorizes, and we declare, a cash dividend, then our stockholders who have not “opted out”
of the DRIP by the dividend record date will have their cash dividends automatically reinvested into additional shares of our common stock,
rather than receiving the cash dividends. We have the option to satisfy the share requirements of the DRIP through the issuance of new
shares of common stock or through open market purchases of common stock by the DRIP plan administrator.
We are prohibited from making distributions
that cause us to fail to maintain the asset coverage ratio stipulated by the 1940 Act, subject to certain exceptions, or that violate
our debt covenants.
In order to maintain tax treatment
as a RIC, we must for each fiscal year timely distribute an amount equal to at least 90.0% of our ordinary net taxable income and realized
net short-term capital gains in excess of realized net long-term capital losses, if any, reduced by deductible expenses. In addition,
we will be subject to federal excise taxes to the extent we do not distribute during the calendar year at least (1) 98.0% of our net ordinary
income for the calendar year, (2) 98.2% of our capital gain net income for the one-year period ending on October 31 of the calendar year
and (3) any net ordinary income and capital gain net income that we recognized for preceding years, but were not distributed during such
years, and on which we paid no U.S. federal income tax. For the 2019, 2018 and 2017 calendar year, the Company made distributions sufficient
such that we did not incur any U.S. federal excise taxes. For the 2014, 2015, 2016, 2020 and 2021 calendar years, our distributions were
insufficient such that we incurred U.S. federal excise taxes. We may elect to withhold from distribution a portion of our ordinary income
for the 2022 calendar year and/or portion of the capital gains in excess of capital losses realized during the one-year period ending
October 31, 2022, if any, and, if we do so, we would expect to incur U.S. federal excise taxes as a result.
In accordance with certain applicable
provisions of the Code and the Treasury regulations and a revenue procedure issued by the IRS, a RIC may treat a distribution of its own
stock as fulfilling its RIC distribution requirements if each stockholder may elect to receive his or her entire distribution in either
cash or stock of the RIC subject to a limitation that the aggregate amount of cash to be distributed to all stockholders must be at least
20% of the aggregate declared distribution. If too many stockholders elect to receive cash, the cash available for distribution must be
allocated among the shareholders electing to receive cash (with the balance of the distribution paid in stock). In no event will any stockholder,
electing to receive cash, receive the lesser of (a) the portion of the distribution such shareholder has elected to receive in cash or
(b) an amount equal to his or her entire distribution times the percentage limitation on cash available for distribution. If these and
certain other requirements are met, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the amount of the dividend paid in stock will be equal to the
amount of cash that could have been received instead of stock. Taxable stockholders receiving such distributions (whether received in
cash, our stock, or a combination thereof) will be required to include the full amount of the dividend as ordinary income (or as long-term
capital gain or qualified dividend income to the extent such distribution is properly reported as such) to the extent of our current and
accumulated earnings and profits for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
65
Performance Graph
The following graph compares the
return on our common stock with that of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index, the NASDAQ Financial 100 index and the
Standard & Poor’s BDC Index, for the period from March 23, 2007, the date our common stock began trading, through February
28, 2022. The graph assumes that, on March 23, 2007, a person invested $100 in each of our common stock, the Standard &
Poor’s 500 Stock Index, the NASDAQ Financial 100 index and the Standard & Poor’s BDC Index. The graph measures total
shareholder return, which takes into account both changes in stock price and dividends. It assumes that dividends paid are
reinvested in like securities.
66
Outstanding Securities and Debt
The following table shows our outstanding classes of securities
and debt as of February 28, 2022.
(a)
Title of Class
(b)
Amount Authorized
(c)
Amount Held by us or for Our Account
(d)
Amount Outstanding Exclusive of Amounts Shown Under (c)
Securities:
Common Stock
100,000,000
12,131,350
$ 87,868,650
Debt:
Encina credit facility
$ 50,000,000
$ 12,500,000
$ 37,500,000
SBA Debentures
$ 325,000,000 (1)
$ 185,000,000
$ 76,000,000
7.25% 2025 Notes
$ 43,125,000
$ 43,125,000
$ -
7.75% 2025 Notes
$ 5,000,000
$ 5,000,000
$ -
4.375% 2026 Notes
$ 175,000,000
$ 175,000,000
$ -
4.35% 2027 Notes
$ 75,000,000
$ 75,000,000
$ -
6.25% 2027 Notes
$ 15,000,000
$ 15,000,000
$ -
(1) For more information regarding our limitations as to SBA
debenture issuances, see “Item 1. Business - Small Business Investment Company Regulations.”
FEES AND EXPENSES
The following table is intended to assist you
in understanding the costs and expenses that an investor will bear directly or indirectly. We caution you that some of the percentages
indicated in the table below are estimates and may vary. Except where the context suggests otherwise, whenever this report contains a
reference to fees or expenses paid by “you,” “us” or “Saratoga Investment Corp.,” or that “we”
will pay fees or expenses, stockholders will indirectly bear such fees or expenses as investors in Saratoga Investment Corp.
Stockholder transaction expenses (as a percentage of offering price):
Sales load paid
- %
(1 )
Offering expenses borne by us
- %
(2 )
Dividend reinvestment plan expenses
None
(3 )
Total stockholder transaction expenses paid
- %
Annual estimated expenses (as a percentage of average net assets attributable to common stock):
Management fees
3.6 %
(4 )
Incentive fees payable under the Management Agreement
1.9 %
(5 )
Interest payments on borrowed funds
6.1 %
(6 )
Other expenses
2.2 %
(7 )
Total annual expenses
13.8 %
(8 )
(1)
In the event that the shares of common stock are sold to or through underwriters, a corresponding prospectus supplement will disclose the applicable sales load.
(2)
The prospectus supplement corresponding to each offering will disclose the applicable offering expenses and total stockholder transaction expenses.
67
(3)
The expenses associated with the administration of our dividend reinvestment plan are included in “Other expenses.” The participants in the dividend reinvestment plan will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred with respect to open market purchases, if any, made by the administrator under the dividend reinvestment plan.
(4)
Our base management fee under the Management Agreement with Saratoga Investment Advisors is based on our gross assets, which is defined as our total assets, including those acquired using borrowings for investment purposes, but excluding cash and cash equivalents. See “Investment Advisory and Management Agreement.” The fact that our base management fee is payable based upon our gross assets, rather than our net assets (i.e., total assets after deduction of any liabilities, including borrowings) means that our base management fee as a percentage of net assets attributable to common stock will increase when we utilize leverage.
(5)
The incentive fee consists of two parts. The first part is calculated and payable quarterly in arrears and equals 20% of our “pre-incentive fee net investment income” for the immediately preceding quarter, subject to a preferred return, or “hurdle,” and a “catch up” feature. For this purpose, “pre-incentive fee net investment income” means interest income, dividend income and any other income (including any other fees, such as commitment, origination, structuring, diligence, managerial and consulting fees or other fees that we receive from portfolio companies) accrued by us during the fiscal quarter, minus our operating expenses for the quarter (including the base management fee, expenses payable under the administration agreement described below, and any interest expense and dividends paid on any issued and outstanding preferred stock, but excluding the incentive fee).
The second part of the incentive fee is determined and payable in arrears as of the end of each fiscal year (or upon termination of the Management Agreement) and equals 20% of our “incentive fee capital gains,” which equals our realized capital gains on a cumulative basis from May 31, 2010 through the end of the year, if any, computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation on a cumulative basis, less the aggregate amount of any previously paid capital gain incentive fee. Under the Management Agreement, the capital gains portion of the incentive fee is based on realized gains and realized and unrealized losses from May 31, 2010. Therefore, realized and unrealized losses incurred prior to such time will not be taken into account when calculating the capital gains portion of the incentive fee, and Saratoga Investment Advisors will be entitled to 20% of incentive fee capital gains that arise after May 31, 2010. In addition, the cost basis for computing realized gains and losses on investments held by us as of May 31, 2010 will equal the fair value of such investments as of such date. We estimate this as zero for purposes of this table as these fees are hard to predict, as they are based on capital gains and losses. See “Investment Advisory and Management Agreement.”
(6)
We may borrow funds from time to time to make investments to the extent we determine that the economic situation is conducive to doing so. The 6.0% figure in the table includes all expected borrowing costs that we expect to incur over the next twelve months in connection Encina Credit Facility. The costs associated with our outstanding borrowings are indirectly borne by our stockholders. We do not expect to issue any preferred stock during the next twelve months and, therefore, have not included the cost of issuing and servicing preferred stock in the table. In addition, all of the commitment fees, interest expense, amortized financing costs of our Credit Facility, SBA debentures and the 6.25% 2027 Notes, the 7.25% 2025 Notes, 7.75% 2025 Notes, the 4.375% 2026 Notes and the 4.35% 2027 Notes, fees and expenses of issuing and servicing any other borrowings or leverage that we expect to incur during the next twelve months are included in the table and expense example presentation below. On April 16, 2018, as permitted by the Small Business Credit Availability Act, which was signed into law on March 23, 2018, our board of directors, including a majority of our independent directors, approved of the Company becoming subject to a minimum asset coverage ratio of 150% under Sections 18(a)(1) and 18(a)(2) of the 1940 Act. The 150% asset coverage ratio became effective on April 16, 2019. See “Business Development Company Regulations and “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business and Structure—Effective April 16, 2019, our asset coverage requirement was reduced from 200% to 150%, which could increase the risk of investing in the Company.”
(7)
“Other expenses” are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year and include our overhead expenses, including payments under our administration agreement based on our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by Saratoga Investment Advisors in performing its obligations under the administration agreement. See “Administration Agreement.”
(8)
This figure includes all of the fees and expenses of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Saratoga Investment Corp SBIC LP, Saratoga Investment Corp SBIC II LP, Saratoga Investment Funding LLC and Saratoga Investment Funding II LLC, except SLF JV. As SLF JV is structured as a private joint venture, with control and management shared equally between us and TJHA, no management fees are paid by SLF JV. Furthermore, this table reflects all of the fees and expenses borne by us with respect to our investment in Saratoga CLO.
68
Example
The following example demonstrates the
projected dollar amount of total cumulative expenses over various periods with respect to a hypothetical $1,000 investment in our
common stock, assuming an asset coverage ratio of 209.3% (the Company’s actual asset coverage as of February 28, 2022) and
total annual expenses of 13.8% of net assets attributable to common stock as set forth in the fees and expenses table above, and
(x) a 5.0% annual return resulting entirely from net realized capital gains (none of which is subject to the incentive fee) and
(y) a 5.0% annual return resulting entirely from net realized capital gains (all of which is subject to the incentive fee based
on capital gains). Transaction expenses are included in the following example. This example and the expenses in the table above
should not be considered a representation of our future expenses, and actual expenses (including cost of debt, if any, and other
expenses) may be greater or less than those shown.
1 Year
3 Years
5 years
10 years
Assuming a 5% annual return on portfolio resulting entirely from net realized capital gains (none of which is subject to the capital gains incentive fee)(1)
$ 141
$ 404
$ 779
$ 1,773
Assuming a 5% annual return resulting entirely from net realized capital gains (all of which is subject to incentive fee based on capital gains)(2)
$ 151
$ 476
$ 834
$ 1,899
(1) Assumes that we will not realize any capital gains computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation.
(2) Assumes no unrealized capital depreciation and a 5% annual return resulting entirely from net realized capital gains and therefore
subject to the incentive fee based on capital gains. Because our investment strategy involves investments that generate primarily current
income, we believe that a 5% annual return resulting entirely from net realized capital gains is unlikely.
This example and the
expenses in the table above should not be considered a representation of our future expenses, and actual expenses (including the cost
of debt, if any, and other expenses) may be greater or less than those shown.
The foregoing table is to assist
you in understanding the various costs and expenses that an investor in our common stock will bear directly or indirectly. While the example
assumes, as required by the SEC, a 5% annual return, our performance will vary and may result in a return greater or less than 5%. Both
examples assume that the 5% annual return will be generated entirely through net realized capital gains and, as a result, will trigger
the payment of the capital gains portion of the incentive fee under the investment advisory agreement. Any potential income portion of
the incentive fee under the investment advisory agreement is not included in the example. If we achieve sufficient returns on our investments,
including through net realized capital gains, to trigger an incentive fee of a material amount, our expenses, and returns to our investors,
would be higher. In addition, while the example assumes reinvestment of all dividends and distributions at net asset value, under certain
circumstances, reinvestment of dividends and other distributions under our dividend reinvestment plan may occur at a price per share that
differs from net asset value.
Sales of unregistered securities
On July 9, 2020, the
Company issued $5.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.75% fixed-rate Notes due in 2025 (the “7.75% 2025 Notes”)
for net proceeds of $4.8 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $0.2 million. Offering costs incurred were
approximately $0.1 million. Interest on the 7.75% Notes 2025 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November
30, at a rate of 7.75% per year. The 7.75% Notes 2025 mature on July 9, 2025 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from
time to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment
objective and strategies. Financing costs of $0.3 million related to the 7.75% Notes 2025 have been capitalized and are being amortized
over the term of the Notes. As of February 28, 2022, the total 7.25% 2025 Notes outstanding was $5.0 million. The 7.75% 2025 Notes are
unlisted and have a par value of $25.00 per share.
69
At February 28, 2022,
the total 7.75% 2025 Notes outstanding was $5.0 million.
On December 29, 2020, the Company issued $5.0
million aggregate principal amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate Notes due in 2027 (the “6.25% Notes 2027”). Offering costs incurred
were approximately $0.1 million. Interest on the 6.25% Notes 2027 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November
30, at a rate of 6.25% per year. The 6.25% Notes 2027 mature on December 29, 2027 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time
or from time to time at our option, on or after December 29, 2024. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate
purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $0.1 million related to the 6.25% Notes 2027 have
been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Notes. The 6.25% 2027 Notes are unlisted and have a par value of $25.00
per share.
On January 28, 2021, the Company issued $10.0
million aggregate principal amount of our 6.25% fixed rate Notes due in 2027 (the “Second 6.25% Notes 2027”) for net proceeds
of $9.7 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $0.3 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.0
million. Interest on the Second 6.25% Notes 2027 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a
rate of 6.25% per year. The Second 6.25% Notes 2027 mature on January 28, 2027 and commencing January 28, 2023, may be redeemed in whole
or in part at any time or from time to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes
in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $0.3 million related to the Second 6.25% Notes 2027 have
been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Notes. The Second 6.25% 2027 Notes are unlisted and have a par value of
$25.00 per share.
At February 28, 2022, the total 6.25% 2027 Notes
outstanding was $15.0 million.
Issuer purchases of equity securities
During the year ended February 28, 2022 and February
28, 2021, we purchased 99,623 and 190,321 shares, respectfully of our common stock in the open market. We did not make any purchases of
our common stock in the open market during the year ended February 29, 2020.
The following table summarizes the purchased common stock on a month
to month basis for the year ended February 28, 2022:
Period
Quantity
March 1, 2021 through March 31, 2021
-
April 1, 2021 through April 30, 2021
-
May 1, 2021 through May 31, 2021
40,000
June 1, 2021 through June 30, 2021
9,623
July 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021
-
August 1, 2021 through August 31, 2021
-
September 1, 2021 through September 31, 2021
-
November 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021
-
December 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021
-
January 1, 2022 through January 31, 2022
43,132
February 1, 2022 through February 28, 2022
6,868
Total
99,623
70
[ITEM 6. - Reserved]
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction
with our consolidated financial statements and related notes and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report
on Form 10-K. In addition to historical information, the following discussion and other parts of this Annual Report contain forward-looking
information that involves risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated by such forward-looking
information due to the factors discussed under Part I. Item 1A. “Risk Factors” and “Note about Forward-Looking Statements”
appearing elsewhere herein.
The forward-looking statements are based on our
beliefs, assumptions and expectations of our future performance, taking into account all information currently available to us. These
beliefs, assumptions and expectations can change as a result of many possible events or factors, not all of which are known to us or are
within our control. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations may vary materially from
those expressed in our forward-looking statements.
The forward-looking statements contained
in this Annual Report on Form 10-K involve risks and uncertainties, including statements as to:
● our
future operating results and continued impact of the coronavirus (“COVID-19”)
pandemic thereon;
● the introduction, withdrawal, success and timing of business
initiatives and strategies;
● changes in political, economic or industry conditions, the interest rate environment or financial and capital markets, which could
result in changes in the value of our assets;
● pandemics or other serious public health events, such as the recent global outbreak of COVID-19;
● the relative and absolute investment performance and operations
of our Manager;
● the impact of increased competition;
● our ability to turn potential investment opportunities into transactions and thereafter into completed and successful investments;
● the unfavorable resolution of any future legal proceedings;
● our business prospects and the operational and financial performance of our portfolio companies, including their ability to achieve
our respective objectives as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic
on our ability to continue to effectively manage our business;
● the impact of investments that we expect to make and future acquisitions and divestitures;
● our contractual arrangements and relationships with third parties;
● the dependence of our future success on the general economy and its impact on the industries in which we invest and the impact of
the COVID-19 pandemic thereon;
● the ability of our portfolio companies to achieve their objectives;
● our expected financings and investments;
● our regulatory structure and tax treatment, including our ability to operate as a business development company (“BDC”),
or to operate our small business investment company (“SBIC”) subsidiaries, and to continue to qualify to be taxed as a regulated
investment company (“RIC”);
● the adequacy of our cash resources and working capital;
● the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operations of our portfolio companies and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic thereon;
● the impact of interest rate volatility, including the decommissioning
of LIBOR, on our results, particularly because we use leverage as part of our investment strategy;
● the impact of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms and regulatory, supervisory or enforcement actions of government agencies
relating to us or our Manager;
71
● the impact of changes to tax legislation and, generally, our tax position;
● our ability to access capital and any future financings by us;
● the ability of our Manager to attract and retain highly talented
professionals; and
● the ability of our Manager to locate suitable investments for us and to monitor and effectively administer our investments and the
impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic thereon.
Such forward-looking statements may
include statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,”
“estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,”
“should,” “will” and “would” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology.
We have based the forward-looking statements included
in this annual report on Form 10-K on information available to us on the date of this annual report on Form 10-K, and we assume no obligation
to update any such forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in our forward-looking statements,
and future results could differ materially from historical performance. We undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by law or SEC rule or regulation. 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 U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form
10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.
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 annual report on Form 10-K.
OVERVIEW
We are a Maryland corporation that has elected
to be treated as a BDC under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). Our investment objective is
to create attractive risk-adjusted returns by generating current income and long-term capital appreciation from our investments. We invest
primarily in senior and unitranche leveraged loans and mezzanine debt issued by private U.S. middle market companies, which we define
as companies having earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) of between $2 million and $50
million, both through direct lending and through participation in loan syndicates. We may also invest up to 30.0% of the portfolio in
opportunistic investments in order to seek to enhance returns to stockholders. Such investments may include investments in distressed
debt, which may include securities of companies in bankruptcy, foreign debt, private equity, securities of public companies that are not
thinly traded and structured finance vehicles such as collateralized loan obligation funds. Although we have no current intention to do
so, to the extent we invest in private equity funds, we will limit our investments in entities that are excluded from the definition of
“investment company” under Section 3(c)(1) or Section 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act, which includes private equity funds, to no
more than 15.0% of its net assets. We have elected and qualified to be treated as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).
Corporate History
We commenced operations, at the time known as
GSC Investment Corp., on March 23, 2007 and completed an initial public offering of shares of common stock on March 28, 2007. Prior to
July 30, 2010, we were externally managed and advised by GSCP (NJ), L.P., an entity affiliated with GSC Group, Inc. In connection with
the consummation of a recapitalization transaction on July 30, 2010, as described below we engaged Saratoga Investment Advisors to replace
GSCP (NJ), L.P. as our investment adviser and changed our name to Saratoga Investment Corp.
As a result of the event of default under a revolving
securitized credit facility with Deutsche Bank we previously had in place, in December 2008 we engaged the investment banking firm of
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company to evaluate strategic transaction opportunities and consider alternatives for us. On April 14, 2010, GSC
Investment Corp. entered into a stock purchase agreement with Saratoga Investment Advisors and certain of its affiliates and an assignment,
assumption and novation agreement with Saratoga Investment Advisors, pursuant to which GSC Investment Corp. assumed certain rights and
obligations of Saratoga Investment Advisors under a debt commitment letter Saratoga Investment Advisors received from Madison Capital
Funding LLC, which indicated Madison Capital Funding’s willingness to provide GSC Investment Corp. with a $40.0 million senior secured
revolving credit facility, subject to the satisfaction of certain terms and conditions. In addition, GSC Investment Corp. and GSCP (NJ),
L.P. entered into a termination and release agreement, to be effective as of the closing of the transaction contemplated by the stock
purchase agreement, pursuant to which GSCP (NJ), L.P., among other things, agreed to waive any and all accrued and unpaid deferred incentive
management fees up to and as of the closing of the transaction contemplated by the stock purchase agreement but continued to be entitled
to receive the base management fees earned through the date of the closing of the transaction contemplated by the stock purchase agreement.
72
On July 30, 2010, the transactions contemplated
by the stock purchase agreement with Saratoga Investment Advisors and certain of its affiliates were completed, the private sale of 986,842
shares of our common stock for $15.0 million in aggregate purchase price to Saratoga Investment Advisors and certain of its affiliates
closed, the Company entered into the Madison Credit Facility, and the Company began doing business as Saratoga Investment Corp.
We used the net proceeds from the private sale
transaction and a portion of the funds available to us under the Madison Credit Facility to pay the full amount of principal and accrued
interest, including default interest, outstanding under our revolving securitized credit facility with Deutsche Bank. The revolving securitized
credit facility with Deutsche Bank was terminated in connection with our payment of all amounts outstanding thereunder on July 30, 2010.
On August 12, 2010, we effected a one-for-ten
reverse stock split of our outstanding common stock. As a result of the reverse
stock split, every ten shares of our common stock were converted into
one share of our common stock. Any fractional shares received as a result of the reverse stock split were redeemed for cash. The total
cash payment in lieu of shares was $230. Immediately after the reverse stock split, we had 2,680,842 shares of our common stock outstanding.
In January 2011, we registered for public resale
of the 986,842 shares of our common stock issued to Saratoga Investment
Advisors and certain of its affiliates.
On March 28, 2012, our wholly-owned subsidiary,
Saratoga Investment Corp. SBIC, LP (“SBIC LP”), received an SBIC license from the Small Business Administration (“SBA”).
On August 14, 2019, our wholly-owned subsidiary, Saratoga Investment Corp. SBIC II LP (“SBIC II LP”), also received an SBIC
license from the SBA.
In May 2013, we issued $48.3 million in aggregate
principal amount of our 7.50% fixed-rate unsecured notes due 2020 (the “2020 Notes”) for net proceeds of $46.1 million after
deducting underwriting commissions of $1.9 million and offering costs of $0.3 million. The proceeds included the underwriters’ full
exercise of their overallotment option. The 2020 Notes were listed on the NYSE under the trading symbol “SAQ” with a par value
of $25.00 per share. The 2020 Notes were redeemed in full on January 13, 2017 and are no longer listed on the NYSE.
On May 29, 2015, we entered into a Debt Distribution
Agreement with Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. through which we may offer for sale, from time to time, up to $20.0 million in aggregate principal
amount of the 2020 Notes through an At-the-Market (“ATM”) offering. Prior to the 2020 Notes being redeemed in full, the Company
sold 539,725 bonds with a principal of $13.5 million at an average price of $25.31 for aggregate net proceeds of $13.4 million (net of
transaction costs).
On December 21, 2016, we issued $74.5 million
in aggregate principal amount of our 6.75% fixed-rate unsecured notes due 2023 (the “2023 Notes”) for net proceeds of $71.7
million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $2.3 million and offering costs of approximately $0.5 million. The issuance
included the exercise of substantially all of the underwriters’ option to purchase an additional $9.8 million aggregate principal
amount of 2023 Notes within 30 days. The 2023 Notes were listed on the NYSE under the trading symbol “SAB” with a par value
of $25.00 per share. On December 21, 2019 and February 7, 2020, the Company redeemed $50.0 million and $24.45 million, respectively, in
aggregate principal amount of the $74.45 million in aggregate principal amount of issued and outstanding 2023 Notes.
On March 16, 2017, we entered into an equity distribution
agreement with Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc., through which we may offer for sale, from time to time, up to $30.0 million of our common
stock through an ATM offering. Subsequent to this, BB&T Capital Markets and B. Riley FBR, Inc. were also added to the agreement. On
July 9, 2019, the amount of the common stock to be offered through this offering was increased to $70.0 million, and on October 8, 2019,
the amount of the common stock to be offered was increased to $130.0 million. As of February 28, 2021, the Company sold 3,922,018 shares
for gross proceeds of $97.1 million at an average price of $24.77 for aggregate net proceeds of $95.9 million (net of transaction costs).
For the year ended February 28, 2021, there was no activity related to the ATM offerings.
On July 13, 2018, the Company issued 1,150,000
shares of its common stock priced at $25.00 per share (par value $0.001 per share) at an aggregate total of $28.75 million. The net proceeds,
after deducting underwriting commissions of $1.15 million and offering costs of approximately $0.2 million, amounted to approximately
$27.4 million. The Company also granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 172,500 shares of its common
stock, which was not exercised.
73
On August 7, 2018, we entered into an unsecured
loan agreement (“CLO 2013-1 Warehouse Loan”) with Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1 Warehouse, Ltd (“CLO 2013-1 Warehouse”),
a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1, Ltd. (“Saratoga CLO”), pursuant to which CLO 2013-1 Warehouse
may borrow from time to time up to $20 million from us in order to provide capital necessary to support warehouse activities. The CLO
2013-1 Warehouse Loan, which expired on February 7, 2020, bears interest at an annual rate of 3M USD LIBOR + 7.5%. During the year ended
February 28, 2019, the maximum amount invested by us in the CLO 2013-1 Warehouse Loan amounted to $20.0 million.
On August 28, 2018, the Company issued $40.0 million
in aggregate principal amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate notes due 2025 (the “6.25% 2025 Notes”) for net proceeds of $38.7 million
after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $1.3 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.3 million. The issuance
included the full exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase an additional $5.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.25%
2025 Notes within 30 days. Interest on the 6.25% 2025 Notes is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November
30, at a rate of 6.25% per year, beginning November 30, 2018. The 6.25% 2025 Notes mature on August 31, 2025 and commencing August 31,
2021, may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used
for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $1.6 million related to
the 6.25% 2025 Notes have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 6.25% 2025 Notes.
On December 14, 2018, the Company completed
the third refinancing of the Saratoga CLO (the “2013-1 Reset CLO Notes”). This refinancing, among other things,
extended the Saratoga CLO reinvestment period to January 2021, and extended its legal maturity to January 2030. A non-call period of January
2020 was also added. In addition to and as part of the refinancing, the Saratoga CLO has also been upsized from $300 million in assets
to approximately $500 million. As part of this refinancing and upsizing, the Company invested an additional $13.8 million in all of the
newly issued subordinated notes of the Saratoga CLO, and purchased $2.5 million in aggregate principal amount of the Class F-R-2 Notes
tranche and $7.5 million in aggregate principal amount of the Class G-R-2 Notes tranche at par. Concurrently, the existing $4.5 million
of Class F notes and $20.0 million CLO 2013-1 Warehouse Loan were repaid.
On February 5, 2019, the Company completed a re-opening
and up-sizing of its existing 6.25% 2025 Notes by issuing an additional $20.0 million in aggregate principal amount for net proceeds of
$19.2 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $0.6 million and discount of $0.2 million. Offering costs incurred
were approximately $0.2 million. The issuance included the full exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase an additional $2.5
million aggregate principal amount of 6.25% 2025 Notes within 30 days. Interest rate, interest payment dates and maturity remain unchanged
from the existing 6.25% 2025 Notes issued in August 2018. The net proceeds from this offering were used for general corporate purposes
in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. The financing costs and discount of $1.0 million related to the 6.25% 2025
Notes have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 6.25% 2025 Notes.
On August 31, 2021, the Company redeemed $60.0
million in aggregate principal amount of issued and outstanding 6.25% 2025 Notes at par ($25 per note), plus the accrued and unpaid interest
thereon, through, but excluding, the redemption date of August 31, 2021. The 6.25% 2025 Notes were listed on the NYSE under the trading
symbol of “SAF” and have been delisted effective as of August 31, 2021, following the full redemption.
On August 14, 2019, our wholly-owned subsidiary,
Saratoga Investment Corp. SBIC II LP (“SBIC II LP”), also received an SBIC license from the SBA. The new license will provide
up to $175.0 million in additional long-term capital in the form of SBA debentures.
On June 24, 2020, the Company issued $37.5 million
in aggregate principal amount of our 7.25% fixed-rate notes due 2025 (the “7.25% 2025 Notes”) for net proceeds of $36.3 million
after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $1.2 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.2 million. On July
6, 2020, the underwriters exercised their option in full to purchase an additional $5.625 million in aggregate principal amount of its
7.25% unsecured notes due 2025. Net proceeds to the Company were $5.4 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately
$0.2 million. Interest on the 7.25% 2025 Notes is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a rate
of 7.25% per year, beginning August 31, 2020. The 7.25% 2025 Notes mature on June 30, 2025 and commencing June 24, 2022, may be redeemed
in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate
purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $1.6 million related to the 7.25% 2025 Notes have
been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 7.25% 2025 Notes. The Company has received an investment grade private rating
of “BBB” from Egan-Jones Ratings Company, an independent, unaffiliated rating agency. As of February 28, 2022, the total 7.25%
2025 Notes outstanding was $43.1 million. The 7.25% 2025 Notes are listed on the NYSE under the trading symbol “SAK” with
a par value of $25.00 per share.
74
On July 9, 2020, the Company issued $5.0 million
aggregate principal amount of our 7.75% fixed-rate Notes due in 2025 (the “7.75% 2025 Notes”) for net proceeds of $4.8 million
after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $0.2 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.1 million. Interest
on the 7.75% Notes 2025 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a rate of 7.75% per year, beginning
August 31, 2020. The 7.75% Notes 2025 mature on July 9, 2025 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time
at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective
and strategies. Financing costs of $0.3 million related to the 7.75% Notes 2025 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the
term of the Notes. As of February 28, 2022, the total 7.25% 2025 Notes outstanding was $5.0 million. The 7.75% 2025 Notes are unlisted
and have a par value of $25.00 per share.
On December 29, 2020, the Company issued $5.0
million aggregate principal amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate Notes due in 2027 (the “6.25% Notes 2027”). Offering costs
incurred were approximately $0.1 million. Interest on the 6.25% Notes 2027 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28,
May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a rate of 6.25% per year, beginning February 28, 2021. The 6.25% Notes 2027 mature on
December 29, 2027 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option, on or after December 29, 2024.
The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies.
Financing costs of $0.1 million related to the 6.25% Notes 2027 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the
Notes. The 6.25% 2027 Notes are unlisted and have a par value of $25.00 per share.
On January 28, 2021, the Company issued $10.0
million aggregate principal amount of our 6.25% fixed rate Notes due in 2027 (the “Second 6.25% Notes 2027”) for net proceeds
of $9.7 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $0.3 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.0
million. Interest on the Second 6.25% Notes 2027 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a
rate of 6.25% per year, beginning February 28, 2021. The Second 6.25% Notes 2027 mature on January 28, 2027 and commencing January 28,
2023, may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used
for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $0.3 million related to
the Second 6.25% Notes 2027 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Notes. The Second 6.25% 2027 Notes are
unlisted and have a par value of $25.00 per share.
On February 26, 2021, the Company completed the
fourth refinancing of the Saratoga CLO. This refinancing, among other things, extended the Saratoga CLO reinvestment period to April 2024,
and extended its legal maturity to April 2033. A non-call period ending February 2022 was also added. In addition, and as part of the
refinancing, the Saratoga CLO has also been upsized from $500 million in assets to approximately $650 million. As part of this refinancing
and upsizing, the Company invested an additional $14.0 million in all of the newly issued subordinated notes of the Saratoga CLO, and
purchased $17.9 million in aggregate principal amount of the Class F-R-3 Notes tranche at par. Concurrently, the existing $2.5 million
of Class F-R-2 Notes, $7.5 million of Class G-R-2 Notes and $25.0 million CLO 2013-1 Warehouse 2 Loan were repaid. The Company also paid
$2.6 million of transaction costs related to the refinancing and upsizing on behalf of the Saratoga CLO, to be reimbursed from future
equity distributions. At August 31, 2021, the outstanding receivable of $2.6 million was repaid.
On March 10, 2021, the Company issued $50.0 million
aggregate principal amount of our 4.375% fixed-rate Notes due in 2026 (the “4.375% Notes 2026”) for net proceeds of $49.0
million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $1.0 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.2 million. Interest
on the 4.375% Notes 2026 is paid semi-annually in arrears on February 28 and August 28, at a rate of 4.375% per year, beginning August
28, 2021. The 4.375% Notes 2026 mature on February 28, 2026 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time on or after November 28,
2025 at par plus a “make-whole” premium, and thereafter at par. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate
purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $1.2 million related to the 4.375% Notes
2026 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Notes. At August 31, 2021, the outstanding receivable of $2.6
million was paid in full.
75
On July 15, 2021, the Company issued an additional
$125.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Company’s 4.375% Notes 2026 (the “Additional 4.375% 2026 Notes”) for
net proceeds for approximately $123.5 million, based on the public offering price of 101.00% of the aggregate principal amount of the
Additional 4.375% 2026 Notes, after deducting the underwriting discount of $2.5 million and the estimated offering expenses of approximately
$0.2 million payable by the Company. The net proceeds from the offering were used redeem all of the outstanding 6.25% 2025 Notes (as described
above), and for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. The Additional 4.375% 2026 Notes
were treated as a single series with the existing 4.375% 2026 Notes under the indenture and had the same terms as the existing 4.375%
2026 Notes.
On July 30, 2021, we entered into an equity distribution
agreement with Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc. and Compass Point Research and Trading, LLC (the “Agents”), through which
we may offer for sale, from time to time, up to $150.0 million of our common stock through the Agents, or to them, as principal for their
account. As February 28, 2022, the Company sold 4,840,361 shares for gross proceeds of $123.9 million at an average price of $25.61 for
aggregate net proceeds of $122.4 million (net of transaction costs). During the three months ended February 28, 2022, the Company sold
392,826 shares for gross proceeds of $11.5 million at an average price of $29.31 for aggregate net proceeds of $11.4 million (net of transaction
cost). During the year ended February 28, 2022, the Company sold 918,343 shares for gross proceeds of $26.8 million at an average price
of $29.22 for aggregate net proceeds of $26.6 million (net of transaction cost).
On January 19, 2022, the Company issued $75.0
million aggregate principal amount of our 4.35% fixed-rate Notes due in 2027 (the “4.35% Notes 2027”) for net proceeds of
$73.0 million, based on the public offering price of 99.317% of the aggregate principal amount of the 4.35% Notes 2027, after deducting
the underwriting commissions of approximately $1.5 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.2 million. Interest
on the 4.35% Notes 2027 is paid semi-annually in arrears on February 28 and August 28, at a rate of 4.35% per year, beginning August
28, 2022. The 4.35% Notes 2027 mature on February 28, 2027 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at the Company’s option at any
time prior to November 28, 2026, at par plus a “make-whole” premium, and thereafter at par. The net proceeds from the offering
were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $1.7 million
related to the 4.35% Notes 2027 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Notes.
On August 9, 2021, the Company exchanged its existing
$17.9 million Class F-R-3 Notes for $8.5 million Class F-1-R-3 Notes and $9.4 million Class F-2-R-3 Note at par. On August 11, 2021, the
Company sold its Class F-1-R-3 Notes to third parties, resulting in a realized loss of $0.1 million.
The Company has formed a wholly owned special
purpose entity, Saratoga Investment Funding II LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“SIF II”), for the purpose of entering
into a $50.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility with Encina Lender Finance, LLC (the “Lender”), supported by
loans held by SIF II and pledged to the Lender under the credit facility (the “Encina Credit Facility). The Encina Credit Facility
closed on October 4, 2021. During the first two years following the closing date, SIF II may request an increase in the commitment amount
under the Encina Credit Facility to up to $75.0 million. The terms of the Encina Credit Facility require a minimum drawn amount of $12.5
million at all times during the first six months following the closing date, which increases to the greater of $25.0 million or 50% of
the commitment amount in effect at any time thereafter. The term of the Encina Credit Facility is three years. Advances under the Encina
Credit Facility bear interest at a floating rate per annum equal to LIBOR plus 4.0%, with LIBOR having a floor of 0.75%, with customary
provisions related to the selection by the Lender and the Company of a replacement benchmark rate. Concurrently with the closing of the
Encina Credit Facility, all remaining amounts outstanding on the Company’s existing revolving credit facility with Madison Capital
Funding, LLC were repaid and the facility terminated.
On October 26, 2021, the Company and TJHA JV I
LLC (“TJHA”) entered into a Limited Liability Company Agreement (the “LLC Agreement”) to co-manage Saratoga Senior
Loan Fund I JV LLC (“SLF JV”). SLF JV is invested in Saratoga Investment Corp Senior Loan Fund 2021-1 Ltd (“SLF 2021”),
which is a wholly owned subsidiary of SLF JV. SLF 2021 was formed for the purpose of making investments in a diversified portfolio of
broadly syndicated first lien and second lien term loans or bonds in the primary and secondary markets.
The Company and TJHA have equal voting interest
on all material decisions with respect to SLF JV, including those involving its investment portfolio, and equal control of corporate governance.
No management fee is charged to SLF JV as control and management of SLF JV is shared equally.
The Company and TJHA have committed to provide
up to a combined $50.0 million of financing to SLF JV through cash contributions, with the Company providing $43.75 million and TJHA providing
$6.25 million, resulting in an 87.5% and 12.5% ownership between the two parties. The financing is issued in the form of an unsecured
note and equity. The unsecured note will pay a fixed rate of 10.0% per annum and is due and payable in full on June 15, 2023. As of February
28, 2022, the Company and TJHA’s investment in SLF JV consisted of an unsecured note of $13.1 million and $1.9 million, respectively;
and membership interest of $13.1 million and $1.9 million, respectively.
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For the period from October 26, 2021, through
February 28, 2022, the Company earned approximately $0.1 million of interest income related to SLF JV, which is included in interest
income. As of February 28, 2022, approximately $0.1 million of interest income related to SLF JV was included in interest receivable.
SLF JV’s investment in SLF 2021 is in the
form of an unsecured loan. The unsecured note will pay a floating rate of SOFR plus 7.00% per annum and is due and payable in full on
June 9, 2023. As of February 28, 2022, SLF JV’s investment in SLF 2021 had an aggregate fair value of approximately $28.7 million.
The Company has determined that SLF JV is an investment
company under ASC 946; however, in accordance with such guidance the Company will generally not consolidate its investment in a company
other than a wholly-owned investment company subsidiary. SLF JV is not a wholly-owned investment company subsidiary as the Company and
TJHA each have an equal 50% voting interest in SLF JV and thus neither party has a controlling financial interest. Furthermore, ASC 810
concludes that in a joint venture where both members have equal decision making authority, it is not appropriate for one member to consolidate
the joint venture since neither has control. Accordingly, the Company does not consolidate SLF JV.
COVID-19
We have been closely monitoring, and will continue
to monitor, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (including new variants of COVID-19) and its impact on all aspects of our business, including
how it will impact our portfolio companies, employees, due diligence and underwriting processes, and financial markets. Given the fluidity
of the pandemic, we cannot estimate the long-term impact of COVID-19 on our business, future results of operations, financial position
or cash flows at this time. Further, the operational and financial performance of the portfolio companies in which we make investments
may be significantly impacted by COVID-19, which may in turn impact the valuation of our investments. We believe our portfolio companies
have taken, and continue to take, immediate actions to effectively and efficiently respond to the challenges posed by COVID-19 and related
orders imposed by state and local governments, including developing liquidity plans supported by internal cash reserves, and shareholder
support. The COVID-19 pandemic and preventative measures taken to contain or mitigate its spread have caused, and are continuing to cause,
business shutdowns, cancellations of events and restrictions on travel, significant reductions in demand for certain goods and services,
reductions in business activity and financial transactions, supply chain disruptions, labor difficulties and shortages, commodity inflation
and elements of economic and financial market instability in the United States and globally. Such effects will likely continue for the
duration of the pandemic, which is uncertain, and for some period thereafter.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Basis of Presentation
The preparation of financial statements in accordance
with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions
affecting amounts reported in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. We have identified investment valuation, revenue
recognition and the recognition of capital gains incentive fee expense as our most critical accounting estimates. We continuously evaluate
our estimates, including those related to the matters described below. These estimates are based on the information that is currently
available to us and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ
materially from those estimates under different assumptions or conditions. A discussion of our critical accounting policies and estimates
follows.
Investment Valuation
The Company accounts for its investments at fair
value in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”)
Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”). ASC 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring
fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the quality of inputs used to measure fair value and enhances disclosure requirements
for fair value measurements. ASC 820 requires the Company to assume that its investments are to be sold or its liabilities are to be transferred
at the balance sheet date in the principal market to independent market participants, or in the absence of a principal market, in the
most advantageous market, which may be a hypothetical market. Market participants are defined as buyers and sellers in the principal or
most advantageous market that are independent, knowledgeable, and willing and able to transact.
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Investments for which market quotations are readily
available are fair valued at such market quotations obtained from independent third-party pricing services and market makers subject to
any decision by our board of directors to approve a fair value determination to reflect significant events affecting the value of these
investments. We value investments for which market quotations are not readily available at fair value as approved, in good faith, by our
board of directors based on input from Saratoga Investment Advisors, the audit committee of our board of directors and a third party independent
valuation firm. We use multiple techniques for determining fair value based on the nature of the investment and experience with those
types of investments and specific portfolio companies. The selections of the valuation techniques and the inputs and assumptions used
within those techniques often require subjective judgements and estimates. These techniques include market comparables, discounted cash
flows and enterprise value waterfalls. Fair value is best expressed as a range of values from which the Company determines a single best
estimate. The types of inputs and assumptions that may be considered in determining the range of values of our investments include the
nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company’s ability to make payments, market yield trend analysis and
volatility in future interest rates, call and put features, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, comparison to publicly
traded companies, discounted cash flows and other relevant factors.
We undertake a multi-step valuation process each
quarter when valuing investments for which market quotations are not readily available, as described below:
● Each investment is initially valued by the responsible investment
professionals of Saratoga Investment Advisors and preliminary valuation conclusions are documented and discussed with our senior management;
and
● An independent valuation firm engaged by our board of directors
independently reviews a selection of these preliminary valuations each quarter so that the valuation of each investment for which market
quotes are not readily available is reviewed by the independent valuation firm at least once each fiscal year. We use a third-party independent
valuation firm to value our investment in the subordinated notes of Saratoga CLO and the Class F-2-R-3 Note tranche of the Saratoga CLO
every quarter.
In addition, all our investments are subject to the following
valuation process:
● The audit committee of our board of directors reviews and approves
each preliminary valuation and Saratoga Investment Advisors and an independent valuation firm (if applicable) will supplement the preliminary
valuation to reflect any comments provided by the audit committee; and
● Our board of directors discusses the valuations and approves
the fair value of each investment, in good faith, based on the input of Saratoga Investment Advisors, independent valuation firm (to
the extent applicable) and the audit committee of our board of directors.
Our investment in Saratoga CLO is carried at fair
value, which is based on a discounted cash flows that utilizes prepayment, re-investment and loss assumptions based on historical experience
and projected performance, economic factors, the characteristics of the underlying cash flow, and market comparables for equity interests
in collateralized loan obligation funds similar to Saratoga CLO, when available, as determined by Saratoga Investment Advisors and recommended
to our board of directors. Specifically, we use Intex cash flows, or an appropriate substitute, to form the basis for the valuation of
our investment in Saratoga CLO. The cash flows use a set of inputs including projected default rates, recovery rates, reinvestment rate
and prepayment rates in order to arrive at estimated valuations. The inputs are based on available market data and projections provided
by third parties as well as management estimates. We use the output from the Intex models (i.e., the estimated cash flows) to perform
a discounted cash flow analysis on expected future cash flows to determine a valuation for our investment in Saratoga CLO.
The SEC has adopted new Rule 2a-5 under the 1940
Act. This rule establishes requirements for determining fair value in good faith for purposes of the 1940 Act. We will comply with the
new rule’s valuation requirements on or before the SEC’s compliance date in September 2022.
Revenue Recognition
Income Recognition
Interest income, adjusted for amortization of
premium and accretion of discount, is recorded on an accrual basis to the extent that such amounts are expected to be collected. The Company
stops accruing interest on its investments when it is determined that interest is no longer collectible. Discounts and premiums on investments
purchased are accreted/amortized over the life of the respective investment using the effective yield method. The amortized cost of investments
represents the original cost adjusted for the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums on investments.
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Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status
when there is reasonable doubt that principal or interest will be collected. Accrued interest is generally reserved when a loan is placed
on non-accrual status. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans may be recognized as a reduction in principal depending upon management’s
judgment regarding collectability. Non-accrual loans are restored to accrual status when past due principal and interest is paid and,
in management’s judgment, are likely to remain current, although we may make exceptions to this general rule if the loan has sufficient
collateral value and is in the process of collection.
Payment-in-Kind Interest
The Company holds debt and preferred equity investments
in its portfolio that contain a payment-in-kind (“PIK”) interest provision. The PIK interest, which represents contractually
deferred interest added to the investment balance that is generally due at maturity, is generally recorded on the accrual basis to the
extent such amounts are expected to be collected. We stop accruing PIK interest if we do not expect the issuer to be able to pay all principal
and interest when due.
Revenues
We generate revenue in the form of interest income
and capital gains on the debt investments that we hold and capital gains, if any, on equity interests that we may acquire. We expect our
debt investments, whether in the form of leveraged loans or mezzanine debt, to have terms of up to ten years, and to bear interest at
either a fixed or floating rate. Interest on debt will be payable generally
either quarterly or semi-annually. In some cases, our debt or preferred
equity investments may provide for a portion or all of the interest to be PIK. To the extent interest is PIK, it will be payable through
the increase of the principal amount of the obligation by the amount of interest due on the then-outstanding aggregate principal amount
of such obligation. The principal amount of the debt and any accrued but unpaid interest will generally become due at the maturity date.
In addition, we may generate revenue in the form of commitment, origination, structuring or diligence fees, fees for providing managerial
assistance or investment management services and possibly consulting fees. Any such fees will be generated in connection with our investments
and recognized as earned. We may also invest in preferred equity or common equity securities that pay dividends on a current basis.
On January 22, 2008, we entered into a collateral
management agreement with Saratoga CLO, pursuant to which we act as its collateral manager. The Saratoga CLO was initially refinanced
in October 2013 with its reinvestment period extended to October 2016. On November 15, 2016, we completed a second refinancing of the
Saratoga CLO with its reinvestment period extended to October 2018.
On August 7, 2018, we entered into
an unsecured loan agreement, CLO 2013-1 Warehouse Loan, with Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1 Warehouse, Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Saratoga CLO, pursuant to which CLO 2013-1 Warehouse may borrow from time to time up to $20 million from us in order to provide capital
necessary to support warehouse activities. The CLO 2013-1 Warehouse Loan, which expires on February 7, 2020, bears interest at an annual
rate of 3M USD LIBOR + 7.5%. During the year ended February 28, 2019, the maximum amount invested by us in the CLO 2013-1 Warehouse Loan
amounted to $20.0 million.
On December 14, 2018, we completed
a third refinancing and upsize of the Saratoga CLO. The third Saratoga CLO refinancing, among other things, extended its reinvestment
period to January 2021, and extended its legal maturity date to January 2030. A non-call period of January 2020 was also added. Following
this refinancing, the Saratoga CLO portfolio increased from approximately $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount to approximately
$500.0 million of predominantly senior secured first lien term loans. In addition to refinancing its liabilities, we invested an additional
$13.8 million in all of the newly issued subordinated notes of the Saratoga CLO and also purchased $2.5 million in aggregate principal
amount of the Class F-R-2 and $7.5 million aggregate principal amount of the Class G-R-2 notes tranches at par, with a coupon of LIBOR
plus 8.75% and LIBOR plus 10.00%, respectively. As part of this refinancing, we also redeemed our existing $4.5 million aggregate amount
of the Class F notes tranche at par and the $20.0 million CLO 2013-1 Warehouse Loan was repaid.
On February 11, 2020, we entered into
an unsecured loan agreement (“CLO 2013-1 Warehouse 2 Loan”) with Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1 Warehouse 2, Ltd (“CLO
2013-1 Warehouse 2”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saratoga CLO, pursuant to which CLO 2013-1 Warehouse 2 may borrow from
time to time up to $20.0 million from the Company in order to provide capital necessary to support warehouse activities. On October
23, 2020, the CLO 2013-1 Warehouse 2 Loan was increased to $25.0 million availability, which was immediately fully drawn and, which expires
on August 20, 2021. The interest rate was also amended to be based on a pricing grid, starting at an annual rate of 3M USD LIBOR + 4.46%.
During the fourth quarter ended February 28, 2021, the CLO 2013-1 Warehouse 2 Ltd was repaid in full.
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On February 26, 2021, the Company completed the
fourth refinancing of the Saratoga CLO. This refinancing, among other things, extended the Saratoga CLO reinvestment period to April 2024,
and extended its legal maturity to April 2033. A non-call period ending February 2022 was also added. In addition, and as part of
the refinancing, the Saratoga CLO has also been upsized from $500 million in assets to approximately $650 million. As part of
this refinancing and upsizing, the Company invested an additional $14.0 million in all of the newly issued subordinated notes of
the Saratoga CLO, and purchased $17.9 million in aggregate principal amount of the Class F-R-3 Notes tranche at par.
Concurrently, the existing $2.5 million of Class F-R-2 Notes, $7.5 million of Class G-R-2 Notes and $25.0 million CLO 2013-1 Warehouse
2 Loan were repaid. The Company also paid $2.6 million of transaction costs related to the refinancing and upsizing on behalf of
the Saratoga CLO, to be reimbursed from future equity distributions. At August 31, 2021, the outstanding receivable of $2.6 million was
repaid in full.
On August 9, 2021, the Company exchanged its existing
$17.9 million Class F-R-3 Notes for $8.5 million Class F-1-R-3 Notes and $9.4 million Class F-2-R-3 Note at par. On August 11, 2021, the
Company sold its Class F-1-R-3 Notes to third parties, resulting in a realized loss of $0.1 million.
The Saratoga CLO remains effectively
100% owned and managed by Saratoga Investment Corp. We receive a base management fee of 0.10% per annum and a subordinated management
fee of 0.40% per annum of the outstanding principal amount of Saratoga CLO’s assets, paid quarterly to the extent of available proceeds.
Prior to the second refinancing and the issuance of the 2013-1 Amended CLO Notes, we received a base management fee of 0.25% per annum
and a subordinated management fee of 0.25% per annum of the outstanding principal amount of Saratoga CLO’s assets, paid quarterly
to the extent of available proceeds.
Following the third refinancing and
the issuance of the 2013-1 Reset CLO Notes on December 14, 2018, we are no longer entitled to an incentive management fee equal to
20.0% of excess cash flow to the extent the Saratoga CLO subordinated notes receive an internal rate of return paid in cash equal to or
greater than 12.0%.
Interest income on our investment
in Saratoga CLO is recorded using the effective interest method in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 325-40, Investments-Other,
Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets (“ASC 325-40”), based on the anticipated yield and the estimated cash
flows over the projected life of the investment. Yields are revised when there are changes in actual or estimated cash flows due to changes
in prepayments and/or re-investments, credit losses or asset pricing. Changes in estimated yield are recognized as an adjustment to the
estimated yield over the remaining life of the investment from the date the estimated yield was changed.
Expenses
Our primary operating expenses include
the payment of investment advisory and management fees, professional fees, directors and officers insurance, fees paid to independent
directors and administrator expenses, including our allocable portion of our administrator’s overhead. Our investment advisory and
management fees compensate our Manager for its work in identifying, evaluating, negotiating, closing and monitoring our investments. We
bear all other costs and expenses of our operations and transactions, including those relating to:
● organization;
● calculating our net asset value (including the cost and expenses
of any independent valuation firm);
● expenses incurred by our Manager payable to third parties, including
agents, consultants or other advisers, in monitoring our financial and legal affairs and in monitoring our investments and performing
due diligence on our prospective portfolio companies;
● expenses incurred by our Manager payable for travel and due
diligence on our prospective portfolio companies;
● interest payable on debt, if any, incurred to finance our investments;
● offerings of our common stock and other securities;
● investment advisory and management fees;
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● fees payable to third parties, including agents, consultants or
other advisers, relating to, or associated with, evaluating and making investments;
● transfer agent and custodial fees;
● federal and state registration fees;
● all costs of registration and listing our common stock on any
securities exchange;
● federal, state and local taxes;
● independent directors’ fees and expenses;
● costs of preparing and filing reports or other documents required
by governmental bodies (including the U.S. Securities and
Exchange Commission (“SEC”)
and the SBA);
● costs of any reports, proxy statements or other notices to common
stockholders including printing costs;
● our fidelity bond, directors and officers errors and omissions
liability insurance, and any other insurance premiums;
● direct costs and expenses of administration, including printing,
mailing, long distance telephone, copying, secretarial and other staff, independent auditors and outside legal costs; and
● administration fees and all other expenses incurred by us or,
if applicable, the administrator in connection with administering our business (including payments under the Administration Agreement
based upon our allocable portion of the administrator’s overhead in performing its obligations under an Administration Agreement,
including rent and the allocable portion of the cost of our officers and their respective staffs (including travel expenses)).
Pursuant to the investment advisory
and management agreement that we had with GSCP (NJ), L.P., our former investment adviser and administrator, we had agreed to pay GSCP
(NJ), L.P. as investment adviser a quarterly base management fee of 1.75% of the average value of our total assets (other than cash or
cash equivalents but including assets purchased with borrowed funds) at the end of the two most recently completed fiscal quarters and
an incentive fee.
The incentive fee had two parts:
● A fee, payable quarterly in arrears, equal to 20.0% of our pre-incentive
fee net investment income, expressed as a rate of return on the value of the net assets at the end of the immediately preceding quarter,
that exceeded a 1.875% quarterly hurdle rate measured as of the end of each fiscal quarter. Under this provision, in any fiscal quarter,
our investment adviser received no incentive fee unless our pre-incentive fee net investment income exceeded the hurdle rate of 1.875%.
Amounts received as a return of capital were not included in calculating this portion of the incentive fee. Since the hurdle rate was
based on net assets, a return of less than the hurdle rate on total assets could still have resulted in an incentive fee.
● A fee, payable at the end of each fiscal year, equal to 20.0%
of our net realized capital gains, if any, computed net of all realized capital losses and unrealized capital depreciation, in each case
on a cumulative basis on each investment in the Company’s portfolio, less the aggregate amount of capital gains incentive fees
paid to the investment adviser through such date.
We deferred cash payment of any incentive
fee otherwise earned by our former investment adviser if, during the then most recent four full fiscal quarters ending on or prior to
the date such payment was to be made, the sum of (a) our aggregate distributions to our stockholders and (b) our change in net assets
(defined as total assets less liabilities) (before taking into account any incentive fees payable during that period) was less than 7.5%
of our net assets at the beginning of such period. These calculations were appropriately pro-rated for the first three fiscal quarters
of operation and adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases during the applicable period. Such incentive fee would become payable
on the next date on which such test had been satisfied for the most recent four full fiscal quarters or upon certain terminations of the
investment advisory and management agreement. We commenced deferring cash payment of incentive fees during the quarterly period ended
August 31, 2007 and continued to defer such payments through the quarterly period ended May 31, 2010. As of July 30, 2010, the date on
which GSCP (NJ), L.P. ceased to be our investment adviser and administrator, we owed GSCP (NJ), L.P. $2.9 million in fees for services
previously provided to us; of which $0.3 million has been paid by us. GSCP (NJ), L.P. agreed to waive payment by us of the remaining $2.6
million in connection with the consummation of the stock purchase transaction with Saratoga Investment Advisors and certain of its affiliates
described elsewhere in this Annual Report.
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The terms of the investment advisory
and management agreement with Saratoga Investment Advisors, our current investment adviser, are substantially similar to the terms of
the investment advisory and management agreement we had entered into with GSCP (NJ), L.P., our former investment adviser, except for the
following material distinctions in the fee terms:
● The capital gains portion of the incentive fee was reset with
respect to gains and losses from May 31, 2010, and therefore losses and gains incurred prior to such time will not be taken into account
when calculating the capital gains fee payable to Saratoga Investment Advisors and, as a result, Saratoga Investment Advisors will be
entitled to 20.0% of net gains that arise after May 31, 2010. In addition, the cost basis for computing realized gains and losses on
investments held by us as of May 31, 2010 equal the fair value of such investment as of such date. Under the investment advisory and
management agreement with our former investment adviser, GSCP (NJ), L.P., the capital gains fee was calculated from March 21, 2007, and
the gains were substantially outweighed by losses.
● Under the “catch up” provision, 100.0% of our pre-incentive
fee net investment income with respect to that portion of such pre-incentive fee net investment income that exceeds 1.875% but is less
than or equal to 2.344% in any fiscal quarter is payable to Saratoga Investment Advisors. This will enable Saratoga Investment Advisors
to receive 20.0% of all net investment income as such amount approaches 2.344% in any quarter, and Saratoga Investment Advisors will
receive 20.0% of any additional net investment income. Under the investment advisory and management agreement with our former investment
adviser, GSCP (NJ), L.P. only received 20.0% of the excess net investment income over 1.875%.
● We will no longer have deferral rights regarding incentive fees
in the event that the distributions to stockholders and change in net assets is less than 7.5% for the preceding four fiscal quarters.
Capital Gains Incentive Fee
The Company records an expense accrual
relating to the capital gains incentive fee payable by the Company to its Manager when the unrealized gains on its investments exceed
all realized capital losses on its investments given the fact that a capital gains incentive fee would be owed to the Manager if the Company
were to liquidate its investment portfolio at such time. The actual incentive fee payable to the Company’s Manager related to capital
gains will be determined and payable in arrears at the end of each fiscal year and will include only realized capital gains for the period.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU
2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (“ASU 2020-04”). The amendments in ASU 2020-04 provide optional expedients and exceptions for
applying GAAP to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions affected by reference rate reform if certain criteria are met.
The Company has agreements that have LIBOR as a reference rate with certain portfolio companies and under the Encina Credit Facility.
Many of these agreements (including the credit agreements relating to the Encina Credit Facility) include an alternative successor rate
or language for choosing an alternative successor rate when LIBOR reference is no longer considered to be appropriate. With respect to
other agreements, the Company intends to work with its portfolio companies to modify agreements to choose an alternative successor rate.
Contract modifications are required to be evaluated in determining whether the modifications result in the establishment of new contracts
or the continuation of existing contracts. The standard is effective as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. Management does not
believe this optional guidance has a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
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Portfolio and investment activity
Investment Portfolio Overview
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
February 29, 2020
($ in millions)
Number of investments(1)
94
81
74
Number of portfolio companies(2)
45
40
35
Average investment per portfolio company(2)
$ 17.3
$ 12.6
$ 12.9
Average investment size(1)
$ 8.4
$ 6.5
$ 6.3
Weighted average maturity(3)
2.9 yrs
3.2 yrs
3.1 yrs
Number of industries
38
31
28
Non-performing or delinquent investments (fair value)
$ -
$ 2.1
$ 2.1
Fixed rate debt (% of interest earning portfolio)(3)
$ 16.9(2.5 )%
$ 23.3(4.8 )%
$ 29.7(6.8 )%
Fixed rate debt (weighted average current coupon)(3)
10.0 %
9.8 %
9.3 %
Floating rate debt (% of interest earning portfolio)(3)
$ 671.2(97.5 )%
$ 462.6(95.2 )%
$ 404.4(93.2 )%
Floating rate debt (weighted average current spread over LIBOR)(3)(4)
7.1 %
7.4 %
8.0 %
(1) Excludes our investment in the subordinated notes of Saratoga
CLO.
(2) At February 28, 2022, excludes our investment in the subordinated
notes of Saratoga CLO and Class F-2-R-3 Notes tranche, as well as the unsecured notes and equity interests in the SLF JV. At February
28, 2021, excludes our investment in the subordinated notes of Saratoga CLO, Class F-R-3 Notes tranches of Saratoga CLO. At February
29, 2020, excludes our investment in the subordinated notes of Saratoga CLO, Class F-R-2 Notes and Class G-R-2 Notes tranches of Saratoga
CLO and loan to Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1 Warehouse 2, Ltd.
(3) Excludes our investment in the subordinated notes of Saratoga
CLO and equity interests, as well as the unsecured notes and equity interests in Saratoga JV.
(4) Calculation uses either 1-month or 3-month LIBOR, depending
on the contractual terms, and after factoring in any existing LIBOR floors.
During the fiscal year ended February
28, 2022, we invested $458.1 million in new or existing portfolio companies and had
$226.9 million in aggregate amount of exits and
repayments resulting in net investments of $231.1 million for the year.
During the fiscal year ended February
28, 2021, we invested $202.3 million in new or existing portfolio companies and had
$130.3 million in aggregate amount of exits and
repayments resulting in net investments of $72.0 million for the year.
During the fiscal year ended February
29, 2020, we invested $204.6 million in new or existing portfolio companies and had $167.3 million in aggregate amount of exits and repayments
resulting in net investments of $37.3 million for the year.
Portfolio Composition
Our portfolio composition at February 28, 2022, February 28, 2021
and February 29, 2020 at fair value was as follows:
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
February 29, 2020
Percentage of Total Portfolio
Weighted Average Current Yield
Percentage of Total Portfolio
Weighted Average Current Yield
Percentage of Total Portfolio
Weighted Average Current Yield
First lien term loans
77.3 %
8.3 %
79.5 %
9.5 %
71.3 %
9.6 %
Second lien term loans
5.4
11.1
4.4
12.3
15.1
10.7
Unsecured loans
1.9
9.7
0.4
-
0.9
9.3
Structured finance securities
4.7
10.5
9.0
11.6
6.7
11.4
Equity interests
10.7
-
6.7
-
6.0
-
Total
100.0 %
7.7 %
100.0 %
9.1 %
100.0 %
9.3 %
83
At February 28, 2022, our investment
in the subordinated notes of Saratoga CLO, a collateralized loan obligation fund, had a fair value of $28.7 million and constituted 3.5%
of our portfolio. This investment constitutes a first loss position in a portfolio that, as of February 28, 2022 and February 28, 2021,
was composed of $660.2 million and $603.7 million, respectively, in aggregate principal amount of primarily senior secured first lien
term loans. In addition, as of February 28, 2022, we also own $9.4 million in aggregate principal of the F-2-R-3 Notes in the Saratoga
CLO, that only rank senior to the subordinated notes.
This investment is subject to unique
risks. (See “Part 1. Item 1A. Risk Factors—Our investment in Saratoga CLO constitutes a leveraged investment in a portfolio
of predominantly senior secured first lien term loans and is subject to additional risks and volatility”). We do not consolidate
the Saratoga CLO portfolio in our consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, the metrics below do not include the underlying Saratoga
CLO portfolio investments. However, at February 28, 2022, $630.3 million or 98.7% of the Saratoga CLO portfolio investments in terms of
market value had a CMR (as defined below) color rating of green or yellow and two Saratoga CLO portfolio investments were in default with
a fair value of $2.8 million. At February 28, 2021, $584.6 million or 98.7% of the Saratoga CLO portfolio investments in terms of market
value had a CMR (as defined below) color rating of green or yellow and four Saratoga CLO portfolio investment were in default with a fair
value of $0.8 million. For more information relating to Saratoga CLO, see the audited financial statements for Saratoga CLO included elsewhere
herein.
Saratoga Investment Advisors normally
grades all of our investments using a credit and monitoring rating system (“CMR”). The CMR consists of a single component:
a color rating. The color rating is based on several criteria, including financial and operating strength, probability of default, and
restructuring risk. The color ratings are characterized as follows: (Green)—performing credit; (Yellow)—underperforming credit;
(Red)—in principal payment default and/or expected loss of principal.
Portfolio CMR distribution
The CMR distribution of our investments at February 28, 2022
and February 28, 2021 was as follows:
Saratoga Investment Corp.
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
Investments
Percentage
Investments
Percentage
at
of Total
at
of Total
Color Score
Fair Value
Portfolio
Fair Value
Portfolio
($ in thousands)
Green
$ 690,672
84.5 %
$ 453,297
81.8 %
Yellow
10,593
1.3
32,559
5.9
Red
-
0.0
-
0.0
N/A(1)
116,302
14.2
68,457
12.3
Total
$ 817,567
100.0 %
$ 554,313
100.0 %
(1) Comprised of our investment in the subordinated notes of Saratoga
CLO and equity interests.
The change in reserve from $1.2 million
as of February 28, 2021 to $0.0 million as of February 28, 2022 was primarily related to the write-off of the interest accruals related
to My Alarm Center, LLC, that we deemed non-recoverable, as well as the release of the reserve for our Taco Mac investment that has gone
back on accrual. As of February 28, 2022, there are no non-accrual investments.
84
The CMR distribution of Saratoga CLO investments at February
28, 2022 and February 29, 2021 was as follows:
Saratoga CLO
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
Color Score
Investments
at
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
Investments
at
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
($ in thousands)
Green
$ 595,324
93.2 %
$ 514,183
86.8 %
Yellow
34,983
5.5
70,415
11.9
Red
8,622
1.3
6,921
1.2
N/A(1)
34
0.0
501
0.1
Total
$ 638,963
100.0 %
$ 592,020
100.0 %
(1) Comprised of Saratoga CLO’s equity interests.
85
Portfolio composition by industry
grouping at fair value
The following table shows our portfolio composition by industry
grouping at fair value at February 28, 2022 and February 28, 2021:
Saratoga Investment Corp.
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
Investments
At
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
Investments
At
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
($ in thousands)
Healthcare Software
$ 90,126
11.0 %
$ 28,972
5.2 %
IT Services
80,804
9.9
73,087
13.2
Structured Finance Securities(1)
38,030
4.7
49,779
9.0
Real Estate Services
53,506
6.6
18,032
3.3
Healthcare Services
42,054
5.1
42,410
7.7
Consumer Services
38,234
4.7
181
0.0
Education Services
35,309
4.3
40,384
7.1
Dental Practice Management Software
35,038
4.3
23,659
4.3
Specialty Food Retailer
34,013
4.2
-
0.0
Education Software
33,656
4.1
88,090
15.9
HVAC Services and Sales
29,976
3.7
14,894
2.7
Marketing Orchestration Software
28,777
3.5
-
0.0
Sports Management
26,654
3.3
25,469
4.6
Investment Fund
25,140
3.1
-
0.0
Financial Services
23,540
2.9
419
0.1
Hospitality/Hotel
19,925
2.4
17,080
3.1
Talent Acquisition Software
19,652
2.4
-
0.0
Mentoring Software
18,321
2.2
-
0.0
Marketing Services
17,327
2.1
17,372
3.1
Payroll Services
17,000
2.1
18,333
3.3
Restaurant
15,686
1.9
2,141
0.4
Insurance Software
10,921
1.3
-
0.0
Non-profit Services
10,039
1.2
5,554
1.0
Employee Collaboration Software
10,000
1.2
-
0.0
Waste Services
9,000
1.1
9,000
1.6
Industrial Products
8,427
1.0
9,047
1.6
Dental Practice Management
8,403
1.0
7,133
1.3
Legal Software
7,425
0.9
-
0.0
Field Service Management
6,981
0.9
4,018
0.7
Financial Services Software
5,940
0.7
-
0.0
Healthcare Supply
5,194
0.6
5,422
1.0
Office Supplies
3,726
0.5
3,610
0.7
Corporate Education Software
3,306
0.4
1,050
0.2
Staffing Services
1,912
0.2
925
0.2
Cyber Security
1,636
0.2
13,174
2.4
Healthcare Products Manufacturing
714
0.1
567
0.1
Consumer Products
693
0.1
475
0.1
Facilities Maintenance
482
0.1
6,193
1.1
Corporate Governance
-
0.0
13,265
2.4
Property Management
-
0.0
14,578
2.6
Total
$ 817,567
100.0 %
$ 554,313
100.0 %
* Certain reclassifications have been made to previously reported
industry groupings to show results on a consistent basis across periods.
(1) As of February 28, 2022, comprised of our investment in the
subordinated notes and F-2-R-3 Notes of Saratoga CLO, as well as the unsecured notes and equity interests in the SLF JV. As of February
28, 2021, comprised of our investment in the subordinated notes and Class F-R-3 Notes of Saratoga CLO.
86
The following table shows Saratoga CLO’s portfolio
composition by industry grouping at fair value at February 28, 2022 and February 28, 2021:
Saratoga
CLO
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
Investments
at
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
Investments
at
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
($ in thousands)
Banking, Finance, Insurance & Real Estate
$ 123,124
19.4 %
$ 105,326
17.9 %
Services: Business
69,491
10.9
55,588
9.4
High Tech Industries
60,048
9.4
50,106
8.5
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
43,136
6.9
46,689
7.9
Services: Consumer
41,393
6.5
31,604
5.4
Telecommunications
27,058
4.2
29,878
5.1
Automotive
24,207
3.7
19,159
3.2
Chemicals, Plastics, & Rubber
22,669
3.5
23,302
3.9
Beverage, Food & Tobacco
22,086
3.4
17,998
3.1
Consumer goods: Durable
21,085
3.2
13,143
2.1
Media: Advertising, Printing & Publishing
19,660
3.1
19,826
3.3
Hotel, Gaming & Leisure
16,572
2.6
20,515
3.4
Retail
16,050
2.5
12,880
2.1
Containers, Packaging & Glass
15,253
2.4
18,822
3.2
Aerospace & Defense
14,369
2.2
25,952
4.4
Consumer goods: Non-durable
14,359
2.2
19,343
3.3
Media: Broadcasting & Subscription
11,539
1.8
9,426
1.6
Construction & Building
11,102
1.7
5,362
0.9
Capital Equipment
10,062
1.6
9,961
1.7
Forest Products & Paper
9,367
1.5
6,954
1.2
Media: Diversified & Production
9,203
1.4
6,035
1.0
Utilities: Oil & Gas
8,095
1.3
8,235
1.3
Metals & Mining
6,846
1.1
6,127
1.0
Transportation: Consumer
4,891
0.8
6,183
1.0
Wholesale
4,155
0.7
5,841
1.0
Utilities: Electric
4,026
0.6
4,209
0.7
Transportation: Cargo
3,752
0.6
5,812
1.0
Energy: Electricity
3,660
0.6
4,547
0.8
Environmental Industries
1,550
0.2
989
0.2
Energy: Oil & Gas
155
0.0
2,208
0.4
Total
$ 638,963
100.0 %
$ 592,020
100.0 %
87
Portfolio composition by geographic
location at fair value
The following table shows our portfolio composition by geographic
location at fair value at February 28, 2022 and February 28, 2021. The geographic composition is determined by the location of the corporate
headquarters of the portfolio company.
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
Investments
at
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
Investments
at
Fair Value
Percentage
of Total
Portfolio
($ in thousands)
Southeast
$ 257,199
31.5 %
$ 167,397
30.2 %
West
183,643
22.5
145,907
26.3
Midwest
160,718
19.7
110,125
19.9
Northeast
85,414
10.4
7,314
1.3
Southwest
62,475
7.6
39,334
7.1
Northwest
1,636
0.2
13,174
2.4
Other(1)
66,482
8.1
71,062
12.8
Total
$ 817,567
100.0 %
$ 554,313
100.0 %
(1) As of February 28, 2022, comprised of our investments in the
subordinated notes, F-2-R-3 Notes of Saratoga CLO, as well as the unsecured notes and equity interests in the SLF JV and foreign investments.
As of February 28, 2021, comprised of our investments in the subordinated notes, F-R-3 Notes of Saratoga CLO and foreign investments.
88
Results of operations
Operating results for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2022, February
28, 2021 and February 29, 2020 were as follows:
For the Year Ended
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
February 29, 2020
($ in thousands)
Total investment income
$ 70,740
$ 57,650
$ 58,448
Total operating expenses
50,797
34,537
43,587
Net investment income
19,943
23,113
14,861
Net realized gains (losses) from investments
13,398
(8,704 )
42,877
Income tax (provision) benefit from realized gain on investments
(2,886 )
(3,895 )
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments
17,020
4,966
(771 )
Net change in provision for deferred taxes on unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on investments
695
(574 )
355
Loss on extinguishment of debt*
(2,434 )
(129 )
(1,583 )
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
$ 45,735
$ 14,777
$ 55,739
* Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform
to current period presentation.
89
Investment income
The composition of our investment income for the fiscal years
ended February 28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29,
2020 were as follows:
For the Year Ended
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
February 29, 2020
($ in thousands)
Interest from investments
$ 58,502
$ 51,714
$ 48,047
Interest from cash and cash equivalents
4
14
536
Management fee income
3,263
2,508
2,504
Incentive fee income
-
-
-
Dividend Income*
1,926
158
216
Structuring and advisory fee income
4,308
2,157
5,286
Other income*
2,739
1,099
1,859
Total investment income
$ 70,740
$ 57,650
$ 58,448
* Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform
to current period presentation.
90
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2022, total investment income increased $13.1 million, or 22.7%, to $70.7 million for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2022 compared
to $57.7 million for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021. Interest income from investments increased $6.8 million, or 13.1%, to $58.5
million for the year ended February 28, 2022 from $51.7 million for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021. This reflects an increase
of 47.5% in total investments to $817.6 million at February 28, 2022 from $554.3 million at February 28, 2021, offset by (i) the reduction
in LIBOR and interest spreads during the same period and (ii) the increase in equity positions that are not interest-bearing. At February
28, 2022, the weighted average current yield on investments was 7.7% compared to 9.1% at February 28, 2021, which offset some of the impact
of the increased investments.
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2021, total investment income decreased $0.8 million, or 1.4% compared to the fiscal year ended February 29, 2020. Interest income
from investments increased $3.7 million, or 7.7%, to $51.7 million for the year ended February 28, 2021 from $48.0 million for the fiscal
year ended February 29, 2020. This reflects an increase of 14.1% in total investments to $554.3 million at February 28, 2021 from $485.6
million at February 29, 2020. At February 28, 2021, the weighted average current yield on investments was 9.1% compared to 9.3% at February
29, 2020, which offset some of the interest income increase.
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2022 and February 28, 2021, total PIK income was $1.5 million and $2.6 million, respectively. This decrease was primarily due to the
repayment of debt securities which elected to pay a portion of their interest in PIK and the change in PIK interest of investments that
were restored from non-accrual to accrual status over the past two years.
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, total PIK income was $2.6 million and $4.5 million, respectively. This decrease was primarily due to our
sale in Easy Ice, LLC, which primarily generated PIK interest income. The Company sold its interest in Easy Ice, LLC during the end of
the year ended February 29, 2020.
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, total dividend income was $1.9 million, $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively.
Dividends received is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations when earned, and the increase primarily reflects dividend
income received on various preferred equity investments.
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, total structuring and advisory fee income was $4.3 million, $2.2 million and $5.3 million,
respectively. Structuring and advisory fee income represents fee income earned and received performing certain investment and advisory
activities during the closing of new investments, with the increase primarily reflecting the increased originations during the period.
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, other income was $2.7 million, $1.1 million and $1.9 million, respectively. Other income
primarily includes prepayment income fees and is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations when earned.
Operating expenses
The composition of our operating expenses for the years ended February
28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020 were as follows:
For the Year Ended
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
February 29, 2020
($ in thousands)
Interest and debt financing expenses
$ 19,880
$ 13,587
$ 14,683
Base management fees
11,902
9,098
8,099
Incentive management fees
11,794
4,904
14,164
Professional fees
1,378
1,706
1,684
Administrator expenses
2,906
2,546
2,131
Insurance
349
285
260
Directors fees and expenses
336
290
278
General and administrative and other expenses
1,662
1,428
1,326
Income tax benefit
(40 )
1
962
Excise tax expense (credit)
630
692
-
Total operating expenses
$ 50,797
$ 34,537
$ 43,587
For the year ended February 28, 2022,
total operating expenses increased $16.3 million, or 47.2%, to $50.8 million for the year ended February 28, 2022 compared to $34.5 million
for the year ended February 28, 2021. For the year ended February 28, 2021, total operating expenses decreased $9.0 million, or 20.8%,
to $34.5 million for the year ended February 28, 2021 compared to $43.6 million for the year ended February 29, 2020.
91
For the year ended February 28,
2022, interest and debt financing expenses increased $16.3 million, or 47.2% compared to the year ended February 28, 2021. The increase
is primarily attributable to total average outstanding debt increasing from $264.2 million for the year ended February 28, 2021
to $417.4 million for the year ended February 28, 2022. For the year ended February 28, 2022, the weighted average interest rate
on our outstanding indebtedness was 4.15% compared to 4.46% for the year ended February 28, 2021. The decrease in weighted average
interest rate and increase in average outstanding debt was primarily due to the issuance of the lower-cost 2026 and 2027 Notes
and the repayment of the higher-cost 2025 Notes, and the issuance of new SBA debentures that carry a lower interest rate. The average
outstanding borrowings of the 2025 Notes decreased $30.7 million from $60.0 for the year ended February 28, 2021 to $29.6 million for
the year ended February 28, 2022. At February 28, 2022 and February 28, 2021, the SBA debentures represented 36.2% and 56.2% of overall
debt, respectively.
For the years ended February 28,
2021 and February 29, 2020, the decrease in interest and debt financing expenses is primarily attributable to a decrease in total
outstanding debt. The decrease is primarily attributable to a decrease in average outstanding debt from $273.8 million for the year
ended February 29, 2020 to $264.2 million for the year ended February 28, 2021. For the year ended February 28, 2021,
the weighted average interest rate on our outstanding indebtedness was 4.46% compared to the 4.71% for the year ended February 29,
2020. The decrease in weighted average interest rate was primarily driven by the issuance of new SBA debentures that carry a lower interest
rate. At February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, the SBA debentures represented 56.2% and 71.4% of overall debt, respectively.
For the year ended February 28, 2022,
base management fees increased $2.8 million, or 30.8% compared to the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021. The increase in base management
fees results from the 30.8% increase in the average value of our total assets, less cash and cash equivalents, from $519.9 million as
of February 28, 2021 to $680.1 million as of February 28, 2022.
For the year ended February 28, 2021, base management
fees increased $1.0 million, or 12.3% compared to the fiscal year ended February 29, 2020. The increase in base management fees results
from the 12.3% increase in the average value of our total assets, less cash and cash equivalents, from $462.8 million as of February 29,
2020 to $519.9 million as of February 28, 2021.
For the year ended February 28, 2022,
incentive management fees increased $6.9 million, or 141.7% compared to the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021. The first part of the
incentive management fees increased this year from $5.4 million for the year ended February 28, 2021 to $6.4 million for the year ended
February 28, 2022, reflecting the increased operating performance during this period. The incentive management fees related to capital
gains increased from $(0.5) million benefit for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021 to $5.5 million expense for the fiscal year ended
February 28, 2022, reflecting the incentive fee expense on net realized gains and net unrealized appreciation this quarter across numerous
investments.
For the year ended February 28, 2021,
incentive management fees decreased $9.3 million, or 65.4% compared to the fiscal year ended February 29, 2020. The first part of the
incentive management fees decreased this year from $5.8 million for the year ended February 29, 2020 to $5.4 million for the year ended
February 28, 2021, as higher average net equity during this period resulted in an increase to the net investment income hurdle rate pursuant
to the Management Agreement. The incentive management fees related to capital gains decreased from $8.4 million expense for the fiscal
year ended February 29, 2020 to $(0.5) million benefit for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021, reflecting a reversal of incentive
fee accrual due to an increase in unrealized depreciation on investments during the year ended February 28, 2021.
For the year ended February 28, 2022,
professional fees decreased $0.3 million, or 19.2% compared to the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021. This decrease primarily reflects
optimization across accounting, legal and consulting fees in connection with an increase in our assets and the Company bringing certain
services in-house.
For the year ended February 28, 2021,
professional fees increased $0.02 million, or 1.3% compared to the fiscal year ended February 29, 2020. This increase primarily relates
to increased legal and accounting fees this year, as investment activities continue to grow.
For the year ended February 28, 2022,
administrator expenses increased $0.4 million, or 14.2% compared to the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021, which reflects an increase
to the cap on the payment or reimbursement of expenses by the Company from
$2.775 million to $3.0 million, effective August 1, 2021.
For the year ended February 28,
2021, administrator expenses increased $0.4 million, or 19.5% compared to the fiscal year ended February 29, 2020, which reflects an
increase to the cap on the payment or reimbursement of expenses by the Company from $2.225 million to $2.775 million, effective
August 1, 2020.
92
For the fiscal years ended February
28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, the average borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facilities was approximately $8.7
million, $1.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively, and the average weighted average interest rate on the outstanding borrowing under
the Credit Facilities was 5.22%, 0.17% and 6.66%, respectively.
For the fiscal years ended February
28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, the average borrowings outstanding of SBA debentures was $180.4 million, $169.3 million
and $150.0 million, respectively. For the years ended February 28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, the weighted average
interest rate on the outstanding borrowings of the SBA debentures was 2.60%, 3.25% and 3.23%, respectively.
During the year ended February 28,
2021, the average dollar amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate 2025 Notes outstanding was 60.0 million. On August 31, 2021, the Company redeemed
$60.0 million in aggregate principal amount of issued and outstanding 6.25% 2025 Notes.
During the year ended February 28,
2022 and February 28, 2021, the average dollar amount of our 7.25% fixed-rate 2025 Notes outstanding was $43.1 million and $43.1 million,
respectively.
During the year ended February 28,
2022 and February 28, 2021, the average dollar amount of our 7.75% fixed-rate 2025 Notes outstanding was $5.0 million and $5.0 million,
respectively.
During the year ended February 28,
2022 and February 28, 2021, the average dollar amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate 2027 Notes outstanding was $15.0 million and $7.0 million,
respectively.
During the year ended February 28,
2022 and February 28, 2021, the average dollar amount of our 4.375% fixed-rate 2026 Notes outstanding was $130.4 million and $0.0 million,
respectively.
During the year ended February 28,
2022 and February 28, 2021, the average dollar amount of our 4.35% fixed-rate 2027 Notes outstanding was $8.4 million and $0.0 million,
respectively.
As discussed above, during the fourth
quarter of 2020 fiscal year, the Company redeemed $74.45 million in aggregate principal amount of issued and outstanding 2023 Notes. During
the years ended February 28, 2021, February 29, 2020 and February 28, 2019, the average dollar amount of our 6.75% fixed-rate 2023 Notes
outstanding was $0.0 million, $0.0 million and $63.2 million, respectively.
As discussed above, during the first
quarter of 2022 fiscal year, the Company redeemed $60.0 million in aggregate principal amount of issued and outstanding 2025 Notes. During
the years ended February 28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, the average dollar amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate 2025 Notes
outstanding was $29.6 million, $60.0 million and $60.0 million, respectively.
For the years ended February 28, 2022,
February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, we recognized income tax expense (benefit) of ($0.04) million, $0.0 million and $1.0 million,
respectively. This relates to net deferred federal and state income tax expense (benefit) with respect to operating gains and losses and
income derived from equity investments held in the taxable blockers.
For the year ended February 28, 2022,
we accrued excise taxes of $0.6 million on undistributed taxable income as of December 31, 2021. For the year ended February 28, 2021,
we accrued excise taxes of $0.7 million on undistributed taxable income as of December 31, 2020.
93
Net realized gains (losses) on sales of investments
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2022, the Company had $226.9 million of sales, repayments, exits or restructurings resulting in $13.4 million of net realized loss.
The most significant realized gains and losses during the year ended February 28, 2022 were as follows (dollars in thousands):
Fiscal year ended February
28, 2022
Issuer
Asset Type
Gross Proceeds
Cost
Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
GreyHeller LLC
Equity Interests
$ 8,178
$ 850
$ 7,328
Lexipol, LLC
Equity Interests
10,792
10,792
-
My Alarm Center, LLC
Equity Interests
-
4,867
(4,867 )
Passageways, Inc.
Equity Interests
7,440
1,000
6,476
Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1, Ltd. Class F-1-R-3 Note
Structured Finance Securities
8,360
8,500
(140 )
Texas Teachers of Tomorrow, LLC
Equity Interests
3,339
750
2,589
V Rental Holdings LLC
Equity Interests
2,345
366
1,979
The $7.3 million of net realized gains
was from the sales of the equity position in the Company’s GreyHeller LLC investment.
The $0.1 million of net realized loss
was from the sales of the equity position in Lexipol, LLC.
The $4.9 million of net realized loss
was from the Company’s My Alarm Center, LLC investment that was deemed worthless during this period.
The $6.4 million of net realized gains
was from the sales of the equity position in the Company’s Passageways Inc. investment.
The $0.1 million of net realized loss
was from the repayment of the structured finance securities in the Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1, Ltd. Class F-1-R-3 Note.
The $2.6 million of net realized gains
was from the sales of the equity position in the Company’s Texas Teachers of Tomorrow, LLC investment.
The $1.9 million of net realized gains was from
the sales of the equity position in the Company’s V Rental Holdings LLC investment.
For the fiscal year ended February
28, 2021, the Company had $130.3 million of sales, repayments, exits or restructurings resulting in $8.7 million of net realized loss.
The most significant realized gains and losses during the year ended February 28, 2021 were as follows (dollars in thousands):
Fiscal year ended February 28, 2021
Issuer
Asset Type
Gross
Proceeds
Cost
Net
Realized
Gain
Elyria Foundry Company, L.L.C
Equity Interests
$ 959
$ 9,685
$ (8,726 )
The $8.7 million of net realized losses
was from the sales of the equity positions in Elyria Foundry Company, L.L.C.
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For the fiscal year ended February 29, 2020, the Company had $167.3
million of sales, repayments, exits or restructurings resulting in $42.9 million of net realized gains. The most significant realized
gains and losses during the year ended February 29, 2020 were as follows (dollars in thousands):
Fiscal year ended February 29, 2020
Issuer
Asset Type
Gross
Proceeds
Cost
Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
Easy Ice, LLC
Equity Interests
$ 41,928
$ 10,703
$ 31,225
Censis Technologies, Inc.
Equity Interests
12,280
999
11,281
The $31.2 million and $11.3 million
of net realized gains was from the sales of the equity position in Easy Ice, LLC and Censis Technologies, Inc., respectively.
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
on investments
For the year ended
February 28, 2022, our investments had a net change in unrealized appreciation of $17.0 million versus a net change in unrealized appreciation
of $5.0 million for the year ended February 28, 2021. The most significant cumulative changes in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
for the year ended February 28, 2022, were the following (dollars in thousands):
Fiscal year ended February
28, 2022
Issuer
Asset Type
Cost
Fair Value
Total
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
YTD Change
in Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
ArbiterSports, LLC
First Term Lien Loan
26,846
26,654
(192 )
1,140
Artemis Wax
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
36,774
38,234
1,460
1,460
C2 Educational Systems
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
18,985
18,820
(165 )
2,334
Destiny Solutions Inc.
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
3,969
7,632
3,663
2,636
GreyHeller LLC
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
1,636
1,636
-
(3,103 )
My Alarm Center, LLC
Equity Interests
-
-
-
4,686
Netreo Holdings, LLC
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
27,160
37,804
10,644
5,056
Passageways, Inc.
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
-
-
-
(2,311 )
PDDS
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
29,944
35,038
5,094
4,270
Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1, Ltd.
Structured Finance Securities
41,648
38,030
(3,618 )
(1,675 )
Saratoga Senior Loan Fund I JV, LLC
Unsecured & Equity Interest
26,250
25,141
(1,109 )
(1,109 )
SCHOOX INVESTMENTS LLC
Equity Interests
476
3,306
2,830
2,830
TG Pressure Washing Holdings
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
488
482
(6 )
1,060
Village Realty Holdings LLC
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
-
-
-
(2,183 )
Vector Controls
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
5,008
8,427
3,419
1,393
The $1.1 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in ArbiterSports, LLC was driven by improved financial performance.
The $1.5 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Artemis Wax was driven by improved financial performance.
The $2.3 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in C2 Education Systems was driven by improved financial performance.
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The $2.6 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Destiny Solutions Inc. was driven by growth and overall strong financial performance.
The $3.1 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in GreyHeller LLC. was driven by the sale of that investment, resulting in a reversal of previously recognized unrealized
appreciation reclassified to realized gains.
The $4.7 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in My Alarm Center, LLC was driven by the reversal of previously recognized unrealized depreciation reclassified to
realized losses.
The $5.1 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Netreo Holdings, LLC was driven by growth and improved financial performance.
The $2.3 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in Passageways, Inc. was driven by the sale of that investment, resulting in a reversal of previously recognized unrealized
appreciation reclassified to realized gains.
The $4.3 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in PDDS Buyer, LLC was driven by overall strong company performance.
The $1.7 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1 Ltd. was driven by the increase in discount rates, impact of LIBOR changes and
overall market conditions.
The $1.1 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in Saratoga Senior Loan Fund I JV, LLC was driven by market volatility of the underlying investments of the fund.
The $2.8 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Schoox, Inc. was driven by overall strong company performance.
The $1.1 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Top Gun Pressure Washing, LLC was driven by growth, improved financial performance, and a reduced leverage profile.
The $2.2 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in Village Realty Holdings, LLC was driven by the sale of that investment, resulting in a reversal of previously recognized
unrealized appreciation reclassified to realized gains.
The $1.4 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Vector Controls. was driven by growth and overall strong financial performance.
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For the year
ended February 28, 2021, our investments had a net change in unrealized appreciation of $5.0 million versus a net change in unrealized
depreciation of $0.8 million for the year ended February 29, 2020. The most significant cumulative changes in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) for the year ended February 28, 2021, were the following (dollars in thousands):
Fiscal year ended February 28, 2021
Issuer
Asset Type
Cost
Fair Value
Total
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
YTD Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
ArbiterSports, LLC
First Term Lien Loan
26,801
25,469
(1,332 )
(1,306 )
C2 Educational Systems
First Term Lien Loan
15,998
13,499
(2,499 )
(2,517 )
Elyria Foundry Company, L.L.C.
Equity Interests
9,685
730
(8,955 )
7,745
Knowland Group, LLC
Second Lien Term Loan
15,768
10,788
(4,980 )
(4,873 )
My Alarm Center, LLC
Equity Interests
712
181
(531 )
1,816
Netreo Holdings, LLC
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
9,632
15,220
5,588
1,832
Passageways, Inc.
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
10,953
13,264
2,311
1,173
Roscoe Medical, Inc.
Second Lien Term Loan & Equity Interests
5,649
5,422
(227 )
2,343
Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1, Ltd.
Structured Finance Securities
33,847
31,450
(2,397 )
(1,434 )
Village Realty Holdings LLC
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
12,394
14,577
2,183
2,038
The $1.3 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in ArbiterSports, LLC was driven by disruptions to its business due to COVID-related shutdowns.
The $2.5 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment C2 Education Systems was driven by disruptions to its business due to COVID-related shutdowns.
The $7.7 million net unrealized loss reversal in
our investment in Elyria Foundry Company, L.L.C. was due to the realization of this investment, which resulted in a net unrealized appreciation
during FY21.
The $4.9 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in Knowland Group, LLC was driven by disruptions to its business due to COVID-related shutdowns.
The $1.8 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in My Alarm Center, LLC was driven by increasing leverage levels combined with declining market conditions in the sector.
The $1.8 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Netreo Holdings, LLC was driven by growth and improved financial performance.
The $1.2 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Passageways, Inc. was driven by growth and improved financial performance.
The $2.3 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Roscoe Medical, Inc. was driven by continued improvement in the company’s performance.
The $1.4 million of unrealized depreciation in
our investment in Saratoga Investment Corp. CLO 2013-1, Ltd. was driven by a reduction in base interest rates during FY 2021, along with
expenses resulting from the recapitalization of the CLO.
The $2.0 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Village Realty Holdings, LLC was driven by increased customer demand during its peak season this year.
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For the year
ended February 29, 2020, our investments had a net change in unrealized depreciation of $0.8 million versus a net change in unrealized
depreciation of $2.9 million for the year ended February 28, 2019. The most significant cumulative changes in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) for the year ended February 29, 2020, were the following (dollars in thousands):
Fiscal year ended February 29, 2020
Issuer
Asset Type
Cost
Fair Value
Total
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
YTD Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation)
Easy Ice, LLC
Second Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
$ -
$ -
$ -
$ (3,817 )
GreyHeller LLC
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
7,821
9,981
2,160
1,331
Netreo Holdings, LLC
First Term Lien Loan & Equity Interests
8,273
12,029
3,756
1,655
The $3.8 million net change in unrealized depreciation
in our investment in Easy Ice, LLC was driven by the completion of a sales transaction. In recognizing a realized gain as a result of
the sale, unrealized appreciation was adjusted to zero, which resulted in a $3.8 million change in unrealized depreciation for the year.
The $1.3 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment GreyHeller LLC was driven by increased operating margins and an increase in overall financial performance.
The $1.7 million net change in unrealized appreciation
in our investment in Netreo Holdings, LLC was driven by growth and improved financial performance.
Changes in net assets resulting from operations
For the fiscal years ended February
28, 2022, February 28, 2021 and February 29, 2020, we recorded a net increase in net assets resulting from operations of $45.7 million,
$14.8 million and $55.7 million, respectively. Based on 11,456,631 weighted average common shares outstanding as of February 28, 2022,
our per share net increase in net assets resulting from operations was $3.99 for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2022. This compares
to a per share net increase in net assets resulting from operations of $1.32 for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2021 (based on 11,188,629
weighted average common shares outstanding as of February 28, 2021), and a per share net increase in net assets resulting from operations
of $5.98 for the fiscal year ended February 29, 2020 (based on 9,319,192 weighted average common shares outstanding as of February 29,
2020).
FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We intend to continue to generate
cash primarily from cash flows from operations, including interest earned from our investments in debt in middle market companies, interest
earned from the temporary investment of cash in U.S. government securities and other high-quality debt investments that mature in one
year or less, the Encina Credit Facility future borrowings and future offerings of securities.
Although we expect to fund the growth
of our investment portfolio through the net proceeds from future equity offerings, including our dividend reinvestment plan (“DRIP”),
and issuances of senior securities or future borrowings, to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act, we cannot assure you that our plans
to raise capital will be successful. In this regard, because our common stock has historically traded at a price below our current net
asset value per share and we are limited in our ability to sell our common stock at a price below net asset value per share, we have been
and may continue to be limited in our ability to raise equity capital.
In addition, we intend to distribute
to our stockholders substantially all of our operating taxable income in order to satisfy the distribution requirement applicable to RICs
under the Code. In satisfying this distribution requirement, in accordance with certain applicable provisions of the Code and the Treasury
regulations and a revenue procedure issued by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), a RIC may treat a distribution of its
own stock as fulfilling its RIC distribution requirements if each stockholder may elect to receive his or her entire distribution in either
cash or stock of the RIC subject to a limitation that the aggregate amount of cash to be distributed to all stockholders must be at least
20% of the aggregate declared distribution. We may rely on the revenue procedure in future periods to satisfy our RIC distribution requirement.
Also, as a BDC, we generally are required
to meet a coverage ratio of total assets, less liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities, to total senior securities,
which include all of our borrowings and any outstanding preferred stock, of at least 200.0%, reduced to 150.0% effective April 16, 2019
following the approval received from the board of directors, including a majority of our independent directors, on April 16, 2018. This
requirement limits the amount that we may borrow. Our asset coverage ratio, as defined in the 1940 Act, was 209.2% as of February 28,
2022 and 347.1% as of February 28, 2021. To fund growth in our investment portfolio in the future, we anticipate needing to raise additional
capital from various sources, including the equity markets and other debt-related markets, which may or may not be available on favorable
terms, if at all.
98
Consequently, we may not have the
funds or the ability to fund new investments, to make additional investments in our portfolio companies, to fund our unfunded commitments
to portfolio companies, to pay dividends or to repay borrowings. Also, the illiquidity of our portfolio investments may make it difficult
for us to sell these investments when desired and, if we are required to sell these investments, we may realize significantly less than
their recorded value.
Madison Revolving Credit Facility
The senior secured revolving credit facility we
entered into with Madison Capital Funding LLC (the “Madison Credit Facility”) on June 30, 2010, which was most recently amended
on September 3, 2021 and then fully repaid and terminated on October 4, 2021.
As of February 28, 2021, we had no outstanding
borrowings under the Madison Credit Facility. Our borrowing base under the Madison Credit Facility at February 28, 2021 was $38.9 million.
Encina Credit Facility
Below is a summary of the terms of the senior
secured revolving credit facility we entered into with Encina Lender Finance, LLC on October 4, 2021.
Commitment . The Company entered into a
senior secured revolving credit facility in the initial facility amount of $50.0 million (the “Facility Amount”). The Company
has the ability to request an increase in the Facility Amount during the first two years following the closing date to up to $75.0 million.
The commitment termination date is October 4, 2024.
Availability . The Company can draw up to
the lesser of (i) the Facility Amount and (ii) the Borrowing Base. The Borrowing Base is an amount equal to (i) the difference of (A)
the product of the applicable advance rate which varies from 50.0% to 75.0% depending on the type of loan asset (Defaulted Loans being
excluded in that they carry an advance rate of 0%) and the value, determined in accordance with the Encina Credit Facility (the “Adjusted
Borrowing Value”), of certain “eligible” loan assets pledged as security for the loan (the “Borrowing Base Value”)
and (B) the Excess Concentration Amount, as calculated in accordance with the Encina Credit Facility, plus (ii) any amounts held in the
Prefunding Account and, without duplication, Excess Cash held in the Collection Account, less (iii) the product of (a) the amount of any
undrawn funding commitments the Company has under any loan asset and (b) the Unfunded Exposure Haircut Percentage, and less (iv) $100,000.
Each loan asset held by the Company as of the date on which the Encina Credit Facility was closed was valued as of that date and each
loan asset that the Company acquires after such date will be valued at the lowest of its fair value, its face value (excluding accrued
interest) and the purchase price paid for such loan asset. Adjustments to the value of a loan asset will be made to reflect, among other
things and under certain circumstances, changes in its fair value, a default by the obligor on the loan asset, insolvency of the obligor,
acceleration of the loan asset, and certain modifications to the terms of the loan asset.
The Encina Credit Facility contains limitations
on the type of loan assets that are “eligible” to be included in the Borrowing Base and as to the concentration level of certain
categories of loan assets in the Borrowing Base such as restrictions on geographic and industry concentrations, asset size and quality,
payment frequency, status and terms, average life, and collateral interests. In addition, if an asset is to remain an “eligible”
loan asset, the Company may not make changes to the payment, amortization, collateral and certain other terms of the loan assets without
the consent of the administrative agent that will either result in subordination of the loan asset or be materially adverse to the lenders.
The Encina Credit Facility requires certain minimum
drawn amounts. For the period beginning on the closing date and ending April 4, 2022, the minimum funding amount is $12.5 million. For
the period beginning on April 5, 2022 through maturity, the minimum funding amount is the greater of $25.0 million and 50% of the Facility
Amount in effect from time to time.
Collateral . The Encina Credit Facility
is secured by assets of Saratoga Investment Funding II LLC (“SIF II”) and pledged to the lender under the credit facility.
SIF II is a wholly owned special purpose entity formed by the Company for the purpose of entering into the Encina Credit Facility.
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Interest Rate and Fees. Under the Encina
Credit Facility, funds are borrowed from or through certain lenders at the greater of the prevailing LIBOR rate and 0.75%, plus an applicable
margin of 4.00%. The Encina Credit Facility includes benchmark replacement provisions which permit the Administrative Agent and the Borrower
to select a replacement rate upon the unavailability of LIBOR. In addition, the Company pays the lenders a commitment fee of 0.75% per
year (or 0.50% if the ratio of advances outstanding to aggregate commitments is greater than or equal to 50%) on the unused amount of
the Encina Credit Facility for the duration of the term of the credit facility. Accrued interest and commitment fees are payable monthly
in arrears. The Company was also obligated to pay certain other fees to the lenders in connection with the closing of the Encina Credit
Facility.
Collateral Tests . It is a condition precedent
to any borrowing under the Encina Credit Facility that the principal amount outstanding under the Encina Credit Facility, after giving
effect to the proposed borrowings, not exceed the Borrowing Base (the “Borrowing Base Test”). In addition to satisfying the
Borrowing Base Test, the following tests must also be satisfied (together with Borrowing Base Test, the “Collateral Tests”):
o
Interest Coverage Ratio. The ratio (expressed as a percentage) of interest collections with respect to pledged loan assets, less certain fees and expenses relating to the Encina Credit Facility, to accrued interest and commitment fees payable to the lenders under the Encina Credit Facility for the last 6 payment periods must equal at least 175.0%.
o
Overcollateralization Ratio. The ratio (expressed as a percentage) of the aggregate Adjusted Borrowing Value of “eligible” pledged loan assets plus the fair value of certain ineligible pledged loan assets (in each case, subject to certain adjustments) to outstanding borrowings under the Encina Credit Facility plus the Unfunded Exposure Amount must equal at least 200.0%.
The Encina Credit Facility also may require payment
of outstanding borrowings or replacement of pledged loan assets upon the Company’s breach of its representation and warranty that
pledged loan assets included in the Borrowing Base are “eligible” loan assets. Such ineligible collateral loans will be excluded
from the calculation of the Borrowing Base and may lead to a Borrowing Base Deficiency, which may be cured by effecting one or more (or
any combination thereof) of the following actions: (A) deposit into or credit to the collection account cash and eligible investments,
(B) repay outstanding borrowings (together with certain costs and expenses), (C) sell or substitute loan assets in accordance with the
Encina Credit Facility, or (D) pledge additional loan assets as collateral. Compliance with the Collateral Tests is also a condition to
the discretionary sale of pledged loan assets by the Company.
Priority of Payments . The priority of payments
provisions of the Encina Credit Facility require, after payment of specified fees and expenses, that collections of interest from the
loan assets and, to the extent that these are insufficient, collections of principal from the loan assets, be applied on each payment
date to payment of outstanding borrowings if the Borrowing Base Test, the Overcollateralization Ratio and the Interest Coverage Ratio
would not otherwise be met.
Operating Expenses . The priority of payments
provision of the Encina Credit Facility provides for the payment of certain operating expenses of the Company out of collections on interest
and principal in accordance with the priority established in such provision. The operating expenses payable pursuant to the priority of
payment provisions is limited to $200,000 per annum.
Covenants; Representations and Warranties;
Events of Default . The Encina Credit Facility contains customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants, negative covenants
and events of default. The Encina Credit Facility does not contain grace periods for breach by the Company of any negative covenants or
of certain of the affirmative covenants, including, without limitation, those related to preservation of the existence and separateness
of the Company. Other events of default under the Encina Credit Facility include, among other things, the following:
o
Failure of the Company to maintain an Interest Coverage Ratio of less than 175.0%;
o
Failure of the Company to maintain an Overcollateralization Ratio of less than 200.0%;
o
the filing of certain ERISA or tax liens on assets of the Company or the Equityholder;
o
failure by Specified Holders to collectively, directly or indirectly, own and control at least 51% of the outstanding equity interests of Saratoga Investment Advisor, or (y) possess the right to elect (through contract, ownership of voting securities or otherwise) at all times a majority of the board of directors (or similar governing body) of Saratoga Investment Advisor and to direct the management policies and decisions of Saratoga Investment Advisor, or (ii) the dissolution, termination or liquidation in whole or in part, transfer or other disposition, in each case, of all or substantially all of the assets of, Saratoga Investment Advisor;
100
o
indictment or conviction of Saratoga Investment Advisors or any “key person” for a felony offense, or any fraud, embezzlement or misappropriation of funds by Saratoga Investment Advisors or any “key person” and, in the case of “key persons,” without a reputable, experienced individual reasonably satisfactory to Encina Lender Finance appointed to replace such key person within 30 days;
o
resignation, termination, disability or death of a “key person” or failure of any “key person” to provide active participation in Saratoga Investment Advisors’ daily activities, all without a reputable, experienced individual reasonably satisfactory to Encina Lender Finance appointed within 30 days.
Fees and Expenses . The Company paid certain
fees and reimbursed Encina Lender Finance, LLC for the aggregate amount of all documented, out-of-pocket costs and expenses, including
the reasonable fees and expenses of lawyers, incurred by Encina Lender Finance, LLC in connection with the Encina Credit Facility and
the carrying out of any and all acts contemplated thereunder up to and as of the date of closing. These amounts totaled $1.4 million.
As of February 28, 2022, we had $12.5
million outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility and $185.0 million of SBA-guaranteed debentures outstanding (which are discussed
below). As of February 28, 2021, we had no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility and $158.0 million of SBA-guaranteed debentures
outstanding. Our borrowing base under the Credit Facility at February 28,2022 and February 28, 2021 was $50.0 million and $38.9 million,
respectively.
Our asset coverage ratio, as defined in the 1940 Act, was
209.2% as of February 28, 2022 and 347.1% as of February 28, 2021.
SBA-guaranteed debentures
In addition, we, through two wholly-owned
subsidiaries, sought and obtained licenses from the SBA to operate an SBIC. In this regard, on March 28, 2012, our wholly-owned subsidiary,
Saratoga Investment Corp. SBIC LP, received a license from the SBA to operate as an SBIC under Section 301(c) of the Small Business
Investment Act of 1958 and on August 14, 2019, our wholly-owned subsidiary, Saratoga Investment Corp. SBIC II LP, also received a
license. SBICs are designated to stimulate the flow of private equity capital to eligible small businesses. Under SBA regulations, SBICs
may make loans to eligible small businesses and invest in the equity securities of small businesses.
The SBIC license allows our SBIC subsidiaries
to obtain leverage by issuing SBA-guaranteed debentures. SBA-guaranteed debentures are non-recourse, interest only debentures with interest
payable semi-annually and have a ten-year maturity. The principal amount of SBA-guaranteed debentures is not required to be paid prior
to maturity but may be prepaid at any time without penalty. The interest rate of SBA-guaranteed debentures is fixed on a semi-annual basis
at a market-driven spread over U.S. Treasury Notes with 10-year maturities.
SBA regulations previously limited
the amount that our SBIC subsidiary may borrow to a maximum of $150.0 million when it has at least $75.0 million in regulatory
capital, receives a capital commitment from the SBA and has been through an examination by the SBA subsequent to licensing. This maximum
has been increased by SBA regulators for new licenses to $175.0 million of SBA debentures when it has at least $87.5 million
in regulatory capital. The new license will provide up to $175.0 million in additional long-term capital in the form of SBA-guaranteed
debentures. The SBIC LP and SBIC II LP are regulated by the SBA. As a result of the 2016 omnibus spending bill signed into law in December
2015, the maximum amount of SBA-guaranteed debentures that affiliated SBIC funds can have outstanding was increased from $225.0 million
to $350.0 million. Our wholly-owned SBIC subsidiaries are able to borrow funds from the SBA against regulatory capital (which approximates
equity capital) that is paid in and is subject to customary regulatory requirements including but not limited to an examination by the
SBA. With this license approval, Saratoga will grow its SBA relationship from $150.0 million to $325.0 million of committed capital.
We received exemptive relief from
the SEC to permit us to exclude the debt of our SBIC subsidiaries guaranteed by the SBA from the definition of senior securities in the
asset coverage test under the 1940 Act. This allows us increased flexibility under the asset coverage test by permitting us to borrow
up to $325.0 million more than we would otherwise be able to absent the receipt of this exemptive relief. On April 16, 2018, as permitted
by the Small Business Credit Availability Act, which was signed into law on March 23, 2018, our board of directors, including a majority
of our independent directors, approved of our becoming subject to a minimum asset coverage ratio of 150.0% from 200% under Sections 18(a)(1)
and 18(a)(2) of the Investment Company Act, as amended. The 150.0% asset coverage ratio became effective on April 16, 2019.
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As of February 28, 2022, our
SBIC LP subsidiary had $75.0 million in regulatory capital and $86.0 million SBA-guaranteed debentures outstanding and our SBIC
II LP subsidiary had $87.5 million in regulatory capital and $99.0 million SBA-guaranteed debentures outstanding.
Unsecured notes
In May 2013, the Company issued $48.3 million in
aggregate principal amount of 7.50% fixed-rate notes due 2020 (the “2020 Notes”). The 2020 Notes were redeemed in full on
January 13, 2017 and are no longer listed on the NYSE.
On May 29, 2015, we entered into a
Debt Distribution Agreement with Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. through which we may offer for sale, from time to time, up to $20.0 million
in aggregate principal amount of the 2020 Notes through an ATM offering. Prior to the 2020 Notes being redeemed in full, the Company had
sold 539,725 bonds with a principal of $13.5 million at an average price of $25.31 for aggregate net proceeds of $13.4 million (net of
transaction costs).
On December 21, 2016, we issued $74.5 million in
aggregate principal amount of our 2023 Notes for net proceeds of $71.7 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately
$2.3 million and offering costs of approximately $0.5 million. The net proceeds from the offering were used to repay all of the outstanding
indebtedness under the 2020 Notes on January 13, 2017, which amounted to $61.8 million, and for general corporate purposes in accordance
with our investment objective and strategies. On December 21, 2019 and February 7, 2020, the Company redeemed $50.0 million and $24.5
million, respectively, in aggregate principal amount of the $74.5 million in aggregate principal amount of issued and outstanding 2023
Notes and are no longer listed on the NYSE.
On August 28, 2018, the Company issued $40.0 million
in aggregate principal amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate notes due 2025 (the “6.25% 2025 Notes”) for net proceeds of $38.7 million
after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $1.3 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.3 million. The issuance
included the full exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase an additional $5.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.25%
2025 Notes within 30 days. Interest on the 6.25% 2025 Notes is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November
30, at a rate of 6.25% per year, beginning November 30, 2018. The 6.25% 2025 Notes mature on August 31, 2025 and commencing August 28,
2021, may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used
for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $1.6 million related to
the 6.25% 2025 Notes have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 6.25% 2025 Notes. The 6.25% 2025 Notes are no
longer listed on the NYSE under the trading symbol “SAF” with a par value of $25.00 per share.
On February 5, 2019, the Company
completed a re-opening and up-sizing of its existing 6.25% 2025 Notes by issuing an additional $20.0 million in aggregate principal amount
for net proceeds of $19.2 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $0.6 million and discount of $0.2 million.
Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.2 million. The issuance included the full exercise of the underwriters’ option to
purchase an additional $2.5 million aggregate principal amount of 6.25% 2025 Notes within 30 days. Interest rate, interest payment dates
and maturity remain unchanged from the existing 6.25% 2025 Notes issued in August 2018. The net proceeds from this offering were used
for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. The financing costs and discount of $1.0 million
related to the 6.25% 2025 Notes have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 6.25% 2025 Notes.
On August 31, 2021, the Company
redeemed $60.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the issued and outstanding 6.25% 2025 Notes at par, plus the accrued and unpaid
interest thereon, through, but excluding, the redemption date of August 31, 2021. The 6.25% 2025 Notes were listed on the NYSE under the
trading symbol of “SAF” with a par value of $25.00 per share and effective as of August 31, 2021, have been delisted following
the redemption.
On June 24, 2020, the Company issued $37.5 million
in aggregate principal amount of our 7.25% fixed-rate notes due 2025 (the “7.25% 2025 Notes”) for net proceeds of $36.3 million
after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $1.2 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.2 million. On July
6, 2020, the underwriters exercised their option in full to purchase an additional $5.625 million in aggregate principal amount of its
7.25% unsecured notes due 2025. Net proceeds to the Company were $5.4 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately
$0.2 million. Interest on the 7.25% 2025 Notes is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a rate
of 7.25% per year, beginning August 31, 2020. The 7.25% 2025 Notes mature on June 30, 2025 and commencing June 24, 2022, may be redeemed
in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate
purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $1.6 million related to the 7.25% 2025 Notes have
been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the 7.25% 2025 Notes. The Company has received an investment grade private rating
of “BBB+” from Egan-Jones Ratings Company, an independent, unaffiliated rating agency. The 7.25% 2025 Notes are listed on
the NYSE under the trading symbol “SAK” with a par value of $25.00 per share.
102
At February 28, 2022, the total 7.25% 2025 Notes
outstanding was $43.1 million.
On July 9, 2020, the Company issued $5.0 million
aggregate principal amount of our 7.75% fixed-rate Notes due in 2025 (the “7.75% 2025 Notes”) for net proceeds of $4.8 million
after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately $0.2 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.1 million. Interest
on the 7.75% Notes 2025 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a rate of 7.75% per year, beginning
August 31, 2020. The 7.75% Notes 2025 mature on July 9, 2025 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time
at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective
and strategies. Financing costs of $0.3 million related to the 7.75% Notes 2025 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the
term of the Notes. The 7.75% 2025 Notes are unlisted and have a par value of $25.00 per share.
At February 28, 2022, the total 7.75% 2025 Notes
outstanding was $5.0 million.
On December 29, 2020, the Company issued $5.0 aggregate
principal amount of our 6.25% fixed-rate Notes due in 2027 (the “6.25% Notes 2027”). Offering costs incurred were approximately
$0.1 million. Interest on the 6.25% Notes 2027 is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and
November 30, at a rate of 6.25% per year, beginning February 28, 2021. The 6.25% Notes 2027 mature on December 29, 2027 and may be
redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option, on or after December 29, 2024. The net proceeds from the
offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs of $0.1 million
related to the 6.25% Notes 2027 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Notes.
On January 28, 2021, the Company issued $10.0
million aggregate principal amount of the Second 6.25% Notes 2027 for net proceeds of $9.7 million after deducting underwriting commissions
of approximately $0.3 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.0 million. Interest on the 6.25% Notes 2027 is paid quarterly
in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a rate of 6.25% per year. The 6.25% Notes 2027 mature on January 28,
2027 and commencing January 28, 2023, may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option on or after December
29, 2024. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and
strategies. Financing costs of $0.3 million related to the 6.25% Notes 2027 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term
of the Notes.
At February 28, 2022, the total 6.25% 2025 Notes outstanding was $15.0
million.
On March 10, 2021, the Company issued $50.0 million
aggregate principal amount of the 4.375% Notes 2026 for net proceeds of $49.0 million after deducting underwriting commissions of approximately
$1.0 million. Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.2 million. Interest on the 4.375% Notes 2026 is paid semi-annually
in arrears on February 28 and August 28, at a rate of 4.375% per year. The 4.375% Notes 2026 mature on February 28, 2026 and may
be redeemed in whole or in part at any time on or after November 28, 2025 at par plus a “make-whole” premium, or thereafter
at par. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies.
Financing costs of $1.2 million related to the 4.375% Notes 2026 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the
Notes.
On July 15, 2021, the Company issued an additional
$125.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Company’s 4.375% Notes 2026 (the “Additional 4.375% 2026 Notes”) for
net proceeds for approximately $123.5 million, based on the public offering price of 101.00% of the aggregate principal amount of the
Additional 4.375% 2026 Notes, after deducting the underwriting discount of $2.5 million and the estimated offering expenses of approximately
$0.2 million payable by the Company. The net proceeds from the offering were used to redeem all of the outstanding 6.25% 2025 Notes (as
described above), and for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. The Additional 4.375%
2026 Notes were treated as a single series with the existing 4.375% 2026 Notes under the indenture and had the same terms as the existing
4.375% 2026 Notes.
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At February 28, 2022 the total 4.375% Notes outstanding
was $175.0 million.
On
January 19, 2022, the Company issued $75.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 4.35%
fixed-rate Notes due in 2027 (the “4.35% Notes 2027”) for net proceeds of $73.0 million, based on the public offering price
of 99.317% of the aggregate principal amount of the 4.35% Notes 2027, after deducting the underwriting commissions of approximately $1.5
million . Offering costs incurred were approximately $0.2 million. Interest on the 4.35%
Notes 2027 is paid semi-annually in arrears on February 28 and August 28, at a rate of 4.35% per year, beginning August 28, 2022.
The 4.35% Notes 2027 mature on February 28, 2027 and may be redeemed in
whole or in part at the Company’s option at any time prior to November 28, 2026, at par plus a “make-whole” premium,
and thereafter at par . The net proceeds
from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective and strategies. Financing costs
of $1.7 million related to the 4.35% Notes 2027 have been capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Notes.
At February 28, 2022 the total 4.35% Notes outstanding
was $75.0 million.
At February 28, 2022 and February 28, 2021, the
fair value of total cash and cash equivalents, cash and cash equivalents in reserve accounts and total investments by major category are
as follows:
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
Fair Value
Percentage of Total
Fair Value
Percentage of Total
($ in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 47,258
5.4 %
$ 18,828
3.2 %
Cash and cash equivalents, reserve accounts
5,613
0.6
11,087
1.9
First lien term loans
631,573
72.6
440,456
75.4
Second lien term loans
44,385
5.1
24,930
4.3
Structured finance securities
38,030
4.4
49,779
8.5
Unsecured loan
15,931
1.8
2,141
0.4
Equity interests
87,648
10.1
37,007
6.3
Total
$ 870,438
100.0 %
$ 584,228
100.0 %
On July 13, 2018, the Company issued 1,150,000
shares of its common stock priced at $25.00 per share (par value $0.001 per share) at an aggregate total of $28.75 million. The net proceeds,
after deducting underwriting commissions of $1.15 million and offering costs of approximately $0.2 million, amounted to approximately
$27.4 million. The Company also granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 172,500 shares of its common
stock, which was not exercised.
On March 16, 2017, we entered into an equity distribution
agreement with Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc., through which we may offer for sale, from time to time, up to $30.0 million of our common
stock through an ATM offering. Subsequent to this, BB&T Capital Markets and B. Riley FBR, Inc. were added to the equity ATM program.
On July 11, 2019, the amount of the common stock to be offered was increased to $70.0 million, and on October 8, 2019, the amount of the
common stock to be offered was increased to $130.0 million. This agreement was terminated as of July 29, 2021, and as of that date, the
Company had sold 3,922,018 shares for gross proceeds of $97.1 million at an average price of $24.77 for aggregate net proceeds of $95.9
million (net of transaction costs).
On July 30, 2021, we entered into an equity distribution
agreement with Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc. and Compass Point Research and Trading, LLC (the “Agents”), through which
we may offer for sale, from time to time, up to $150.0 million of our common stock through the Agents, or to them, as principal for their
account. As of February 28, 2022, the Company sold 4,840,361 shares for gross proceeds of $123.9 million at an average price of $25.61
for aggregate net proceeds of $122.4 million (net of transaction costs). During the three months ended February 28, 2022, the Company
sold 392,826 shares for gross proceeds of $11.5 million at an average price of $29.31 for aggregate net proceeds of $11.4 million (net
of transaction cost). During the year ended February 28, 2022, the Company sold 918,343 shares for gross proceeds of $26.8 million at
an average price of $29.22 for aggregate net proceeds of $26.6 million (net of transaction cost).
104
On September 24, 2014,
the Company announced the approval of an open market share repurchase plan that allowed it to repurchase up to 200,000 shares of its common
stock at prices below its NAV as reported in its then most recently published consolidated financial statements (the “Share Repurchase
Plan”). On October 7, 2015, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year and increased the number
of shares the Company is permitted to repurchase at prices below its NAV, as reported in its then most recently published consolidated
financial statements, to 400,000 shares of its common stock. On October 5, 2016, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase
Plan for another year to October 15, 2017 and increased the number of shares the Company is permitted to repurchase at prices below its
NAV, as reported in its then most recently published consolidated financial statements, to 600,000 shares of its common stock. On October
10, 2017, January 8, 2019 and January 7, 2020, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year to October 15,
2018, January 15, 2020 and January 15, 2021, respectively, each time leaving the number of shares unchanged at 600,000 shares of its common
stock. On May 4, 2020, our board of directors increased the Share Repurchase Plan to 1.3 million shares of common stock. On January 5,
2021, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year to January 15, 2022, leaving the number of shares unchanged
at 1.3 million shares of common stock. On January 4, 2022, our board of directors extended the Share Repurchase Plan for another year
to January 15, 2023, leaving the number of shares unchanged. As of February 28, 2022, the Company purchased 508,435 shares of common stock,
at the average price of $19.35 for approximately $9.8 million pursuant to the Share Repurchase Plan. During the three months ended February
28, 2022 the Company purchased 50,00 shares of common stock, at the average price $25.86 for approximately $1.3 million pursuant to the
Share Repurchase Plan. During the year ended February 28, 2022 the Company purchased 99,623 shares of common stock, at the average price
$25.55 for approximately $2.5 million pursuant to the Share Repurchase Plan.
On February 24, 2022, the Company declared a dividend
of $0.53 per share payable on March 28, 2022, to common stockholders of record on March 14, 2022. Shareholders have the option to receive
payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s DRIP. Based on shareholder elections,
the dividend consisted of approximately $5.3 million in cash and 42,825 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.4% of our outstanding
common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated based on
a price of $25.89 per share, which equaled 95% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on March 15,
16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 and 28, 2022.
On November 30, 2021, the Company declared a dividend
of $0.53 per share payable on January 19, 2022, to common stockholders of record on January 4, 2021. Shareholders have the option to receive
payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s DRIP. Based on shareholder elections,
the dividend consisted of approximately $5.3 million in cash and 41,520 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.3% of our outstanding
common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated based on
a price of $26.85 per share, which equaled 95% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on January 5,
6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18 and 19, 2022.
On August 26, 2021, the Company declared a dividend
of $0.52 per share payable on September 28, 2021, to common stockholders of record on September 14, 2021. Shareholders have the option
to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $4.9 million in cash and 38,016 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.3% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $26.77 per share, which equaled 95% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
September 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27 and 28, 2021.
On May 27, 2021, the Company declared a dividend
of $0.44 per share payable on June 29, 2021, to common stockholders of record on June 15, 2021. Shareholders have the option to receive
payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s DRIP. Based on shareholder elections,
the dividend consisted of approximately $4.1 million in cash and 33,100 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.3% of our outstanding
common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated based on
a price of $25.03 per share, which equaled 95% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on June 16,
17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28 and 29, 2021.
On March 22, 2021, the
Company declared a dividend of $0.43 per share payable on April 22, 2021, to common stockholders of record on April 8, 2021. Shareholders
have the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s DRIP. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.9 million in cash and 38,580 newly issued shares of common stock,
or 0.3% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion
was calculated based on a price of $23.69 per share, which equaled 95% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common
stock on April 9,12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21 and 22, 2021.
105
On January 5, 2021, our board of directors declared
a dividend of $0.42 per share, which was paid on February 10, 2021, to common stockholders of record as of January 26, 2021. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.8 million in cash and 41,388 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.4% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $21.75 per share, which equaled 95% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
January 28, 29 and February 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9 and 10, 2021.
On October 7, 2020, our board of directors declared
a dividend of $0.41 per share, which was paid on November 10, 2020, to common stockholders of record as of October 26, 2020. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.8 million in cash and 45,706 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.4% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $17.63 per share, which equaled 95% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
October 28, 29, 30 and November 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 10, 2020.
On July 7, 2020,
the Company declared a dividend of $0.40 per share payable on August 12, 2020, to common stockholders of record on July 27, 2020. Shareholders
have the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s DRIP. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.7 million in cash and 47,098 newly issued shares of common stock,
or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion
was calculated based on a price of $16.45 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the
common stock on July 30, 31 and August 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11 and 12, 2020.
During the three months ended May 31, 2020, there were
no dividends declared.
On January 7, 2020, the
Company declared a dividend of $0.56 per share, which was paid on February 6, 2020, to common stockholders of record on January 24, 2020.
Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s
DRIP. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $5.4 million in cash and 35,682 newly issued shares
of common stock, or 0.3% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $25.44 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price
per share of the common stock on January 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 and February 3, 4, 5 and 6, 2020.
On August 27, 2019,
the Company declared a dividend of $0.56 per share, which was paid on September 26, 2019, to common stockholders of record on September 13,
2019. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s
DRIP. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $4.5 million in cash and 34,575 newly issued shares
of common stock, or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $23.34 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price
per share of the common stock on September 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25 and 26, 2019.
On May 28, 2019,
our board of directors declared a dividend of $0.55 per share, which was paid on June 27, 2019, to common stockholders of record
as of June 13, 2019. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant
to the DRIP. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.6 million in cash and 31,545 newly issued
shares of common stock, or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $22.65 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price
per share of the common stock on June 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26 and 27, 2019.
On February 26,
2019, our board of directors declared a dividend of $0.54 per share, which was paid on March 28, 2019, to common stockholders of record
as of March 14, 2019. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant
to the DRIP. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.5 million in cash and 31,240 newly issued shares
of common stock, or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $21.36 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price
per share of the common stock on March 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27 and 28, 2019.
106
On November 27, 2018, our board declared
a dividend of $0.53 per share payable on January 2, 2019, to common stockholders of record on December 17, 2018. Shareholders had the
option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the Company’s DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.4 million in cash and 30,796 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.4% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $18.88 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
December 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 26, 27, 28, 31, 2018 and January 2, 2019.
On August 28, 2018, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.52 per share, which was paid on September 27, 2018, to common stockholders of record as of September 17, 2018.
Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.3 million in cash and 25,862 newly issued shares of common stock,
or 0.3% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion
was calculated based on a price of $22.35 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the
common stock on September 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26 and 27, 2018.
On May 30, 2018, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.51 per share, which was paid on June 27, 2018, to common stockholders of record as of June 15, 2018. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $2.7 million in cash and 21,562 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.3% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $23.72 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
June 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26 and 27, 2018.
On February 26,
2018, our board of directors declared a dividend of $0.50 per share, which was paid on March 26, 2018, to common stockholders of record
as of March 14, 2018. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant
to the DRIP. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $2.6 million in cash and 25,354 newly issued shares
of common stock, or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $19.91 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price
per share of the common stock on March 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 26, 2018.
On November 29, 2017, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $0.49 per share payable on December 27, 2017, to common stockholders of record on December 15, 2017.
Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $2.5 million in cash and 25,435 newly issued shares of common stock,
or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion
was calculated based on a price of $21.14 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the
common stock on December 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26 and 27, 2017.
On August 28, 2017, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.48 per share payable on September 26, 2017, to common stockholders of record on September 15, 2017. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $2.2 million in cash and 33,551 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.6% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $20.19 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
September 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25 and 26, 2017.
On May 30, 2017, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.47 per share which was paid on June 27, 2017, to common stockholders of record on June 15, 2017. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $2.3 million in cash and 26,222 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.4% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $20.04 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
June 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26 and 27, 2017.
107
On February 28,
2017, our board of directors declared a dividend of $0.46 per share, which was paid on March 28, 2017, to common stockholders of record
as of March 15, 2017. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant
to the DRIP. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $2.0 million in cash and 29,096 newly issued shares
of common stock, or 0.5% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $21.38 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price
per share of the common stock on March 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27 and 28, 2017.
On January 12, 2017, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $0.45 per share, which was paid on February 9, 2017, to common stockholders of record as of January 31,
2017. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP.
Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately
$1.6 million in cash and 50,453 newly issued shares of common
stock, or 0.9% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock
portion was calculated based on a price of $20.25 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share
of the common stock on January 27, 30, 31 and February 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 and 9, 2017.
On October 5, 2016, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.44 per share, which was paid on November 9, 2016, to common stockholders of record as of October 31, 2016. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately
$1.5 million in cash and 58,548 newly issued shares of common
stock, or 1.0% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock
portion was calculated based on a price of $17.12 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share
of the common stock on October 27, 28, 31 and November 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9, 2016.
On August 8, 2016, our board of directors
declared a special dividend of $0.20 per share, which was paid on September 5, 2016, to common stockholders of record as of August 24,
2016. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP.
Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $0.7 million in cash and 24,786 newly issued shares of common
stock, or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock
portion was calculated based on a price of $17.06 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share
of the common stock on August 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31 and September 1 and 2, 2016.
On July 7, 2016, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.43 per share, which was paid on August 9, 2016, to common stockholders of record as of July 29, 2016. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $1.5 million in cash and 58,167 newly issued shares of common stock, or 1.0% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $16.32 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
July 27, 28, 29 and August 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 and 9, 2016.
On March 31, 2016, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.41 per share, which was paid on April 27, 2016, to common stockholders of record as of April 15, 2016. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $1.5 million in cash and 56,728 newly issued shares of common stock, or 1.0% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $15.43 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
April 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26 and 27, 2016.
On January 12, 2016, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.40 per share, which was paid on February 29, 2016, to common stockholders of record as of February 1, 2016.
Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $1.4 million in cash and 66,765 newly issued shares of common stock,
or 1.2% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion
was calculated based on a price of $13.11 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the
common stock on February 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 29, 2016.
108
On October 7, 2015, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.36 per share, which was paid on November 30, 2015, to common stockholders of record as of November 2, 2015.
Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $1.1 million in cash and 61,029 newly issued shares of common stock,
or 1.1% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion
was calculated based on a price of $14.53 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the
common stock on November 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 27 and 30, 2015.
On July 8, 2015, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.33 per share, which was paid on August 31, 2015, to common stockholders of record as of August 3, 2015. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $1.1 million in cash and 47,861 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.9% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $15.28 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
August 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 31, 2015.
On May 14, 2015, our board of directors
declared a special dividend of $1.00 per share, which was paid on June 5, 2015, to common stockholders of record on as of May 26, 2015.
Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $3.4 million in cash and 126,230 newly issued shares of common stock,
or 2.3% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion
was calculated based on a price of $16.47 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the
common stock on May 22, 26, 27, 28, 29 and June 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, 2015.
On April 9, 2015, our board of directors
declared a dividend of $0.27 per share, which was paid on May 29, 2015, to common stockholders of record as of May 4, 2015. Shareholders
had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP. Based on shareholder
elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $0.9 million in cash and 33,766 newly issued shares of common stock, or 0.6% of our
outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated
based on a price of $16.78 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on
May 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28 and 29, 2015.
On September 24, 2014, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $0.22 per share, which was paid on February 27, 2015, to common stockholders of record on February 2,
2015. Shareholders have the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock, pursuant to the DRIP.
Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $0.8 million in cash and 26,858 newly issued shares of common
stock, or 0.5% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock
portion was calculated based on a price of $14.97 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share
of the common stock on February 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27, 2015.
Also, on September 24, 2014, our board
of directors declared a dividend of $0.18 per share, which was paid on November 28, 2014, to common stockholders of record on November
3, 2014. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, or receive shares of common stock pursuant to the DRIP.
Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of approximately $0.6 million in cash and 22,283 newly issued shares of common
stock, or 0.4% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock
portion was calculated based on a price of $14.37 per share, which equaled 95.0% of the volume weighted average trading price per share
of the common stock on November 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26 and 28, 2014.
On October 30, 2013, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $2.65 per share, which was paid on December 27, 2013, to common stockholders of record as of November
13, 2013. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, shares of common stock, or a combination of cash and
shares of common stock, provided that the aggregate cash payable to all shareholders was limited to approximately $2.5 million or $0.53
per share. This dividend was declared in reliance on certain private letter rulings issued by the IRS concluding that a RIC may treat
a distribution of its own stock as fulfilling its RIC distribution requirements if each stockholder may elect to receive his or her entire
distribution in either cash or stock of the RIC subject to a limitation on the aggregate amount of cash to be distributed to all stockholders,
which limitation must be at least 20.0% of the aggregate declared distribution. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted
of approximately $2.5 million in cash and 649,500 shares of common stock, or 13.7% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend
payment. The amount of cash elected to be received was greater than the cash limit of 20.0% of the aggregate dividend amount, thus resulting
in the payment of a combination of cash and stock to shareholders who elected to receive cash. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $15.439 per share, which equaled the volume weighted average trading price per share
of the common stock on December 11, 13 and 16, 2013.
109
On November 9, 2012, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $4.25 per share, which was paid on December 31, 2012, to common stockholders of record as of November
20, 2012. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, shares of common stock, or a combination of cash and
shares of common stock, provided that the aggregate cash payable to all shareholders was limited to approximately $3.3 million or $0.85
per share. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of $3.3 million in cash and 853,455 shares of common stock, or 22.0%
of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment. The amount of cash elected to be received was greater than the cash limit
of 20.0% of the aggregate dividend amount, thus resulting in the payment of a combination of cash and stock to shareholders who elected
to receive cash. The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $15.444 per share,
which equaled the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on December 14, 17 and 19, 2012.
On November 15, 2011, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $3.00 per share, which was paid on December 30, 2011, to common stockholders of record as of November
25, 2011. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, shares of common stock, or a combination of cash and
shares of common stock, provided that the aggregate cash payable to all shareholders was limited to $2.0 million or $0.60 per share. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of $2.0 million in cash and 599,584 shares of common stock, or 18.0% of our outstanding
common stock prior to the dividend payment. The amount of cash elected to be received was greater than the cash limit of 20.0% of the
aggregate dividend amount, thus resulting in the payment of a combination of cash and stock to shareholders who elected to receive cash.
The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $13.117067 per share, which equaled
the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on December 20, 21 and 22, 2011.
On November 12, 2010, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $4.40 per share to shareholders payable in cash or shares of our common stock, in accordance with the
provisions of the IRS Revenue Procedure 2010-12, which allows a publicly-traded regulated investment company to satisfy its distribution
requirements with a distribution paid partly in common stock provided that at least 10.0% of the distribution is payable in cash. The
dividend was paid on December 29, 2010 to common shareholders of record on November 19, 2010. Based on shareholder elections, the dividend
consisted of $1.2 million in cash and 596,235 shares of common stock, or 22.0% of our outstanding common stock prior to the dividend payment.
The amount of cash elected to be received was greater than the cash limit of 10.0% of the aggregate dividend amount, thus resulting in
the payment of a combination of cash and stock to shareholders who elected to receive cash. The number of shares of common stock comprising
the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $17.8049 per share, which equaled the volume weighted average trading price per share
of the common stock on December 20, 21 and 22, 2010.
On November 13, 2009, our board of
directors declared a dividend of $18.25 per share, which was paid on December 31, 2009, to common stockholders of record as of November
25, 2009. Shareholders had the option to receive payment of the dividend in cash, shares of common stock, or a combination of cash and
shares of common stock, provided that the aggregate cash payable to all shareholders was limited to $2.1 million or $0.25 per share. Based
on shareholder elections, the dividend consisted of $2.1 million in cash and 864,872.5 shares of common stock, or 104.0% of our outstanding
common stock prior to the dividend payment. The amount of cash elected to be received was greater than the cash limit of 13.7% of the
aggregate dividend amount, thus resulting in the payment of a combination of cash and stock to shareholders who elected to receive cash.
The number of shares of common stock comprising the stock portion was calculated based on a price of $1.5099 per share, which equaled
the volume weighted average trading price per share of the common stock on December 24 and 28, 2009.
We cannot provide any assurance that
these measures will provide sufficient sources of liquidity to support our operations and growth.
110
Subsequent Events:
On April 27, 2022, we issued $87.5 million in aggregate
principal amount of 6.00% fixed-rate notes due 2027 (the “6.00% 2027 Notes”) for net proceeds of $84.5 million after deducting
underwriting commissions of $2.7 million and offering costs of approximately $0.3 million. The issuance included the underwriters’
option to purchase an additional $12.5 million aggregate principal amount of 6.00% 2027 Notes within 30 days. The 6.00% 2027 Notes will
be listed on the NYSE under the trading symbol “SAT” with a par value of $25.00 per share. Interest on the 6.00% 2027 Notes
is paid quarterly in arrears on February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30, at a rate of 6.00% per year, beginning August 31, 2022.
The 6.00% 2027 Notes mature on April 30, 2027 and commencing April 27, 2024, may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time
to time at our option. The net proceeds from the offering were used for general corporate purposes in accordance with our investment objective
and strategies. We may use the net proceeds from this offering to redeem all of the outstanding 7.25% fixed-rate notes due 2025, which
are callable by the Company commencing June 24, 2022.
Contractual obligations
The following table shows our payment obligations for repayment of
debt and other contractual obligations at February 28, 2022:
Payment Due by Period
Long-Term Debt Obligations
Total
Less Than
1 Year
1 - 3
Years
3 - 5
Years
More Than
5 Years
($ in thousands)
Encina credit facility
$ 12,500
$ -
$ 12,500
$ -
$ -
SBA debentures
185,000
-
15,000
24,660
145,340
7.25% 2025 Notes
43,125
-
-
43,125
-
7.75% 2025 Notes
5,000
-
-
5,000
-
4.375% 2026 Notes
175,000
-
175,000
-
4.35% 2027 Notes
75,000
75,000
6.25% 2027 Notes
15,000
-
-
-
15,000
Total Long-Term Debt Obligations
$ 510,625
$ -
$ 27,500
$ 322,785
$ 160,340
Off-balance sheet arrangements
At February 28, 2022 and February
28, 2021, the Company’s off-balance sheet arrangements consisted of $88.4 million and $58.8 million, respectively, of unfunded commitments
outstanding to provide debt financing to its portfolio companies or to fund limited partnership interests. Such commitments are generally
up to the Company’s discretion to approve, or the satisfaction of certain financial and nonfinancial covenants and involve, to varying
degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of assets and liabilities.
111
A summary of the unfunded commitments outstanding as of February 28,
2022 and February 28, 2021 is shown in the table below (dollars in thousands):
February 28, 2022
February 28, 2021
At Company’s discretion
Artemin Wax
$ 3,700
$ -
Ascend Software LLC
5,000
-
Axero Holdings
3,000
-
Book4Time, Inc.
2,000
2,000
CLEO Communications Holding, LLC
-
630
Davisware
2,000
-
GreyHeller LLC
-
15,000
LFR Chicken LLC
10,000
-
Netreo Holdings, LLC
4,000
10,000
Omatic Software, LLC
-
-
Passageways, Inc.
-
5,000
Pepper Palace
3,000
-
Procrement Partners
2,800
-
Saratoga Senior Loan Fund I JV LLC
17,500
-
Sceptre Hospitality Resources
1,000
-
Top Gun Pressure Washing, LLC
-
3,175
Village Realty Holdings LLC
-
10,000
Total
54,000
45,805
At portfolio company’s discretion - satisfaction of certain financial and nonfinancial covenants required
Ascend Software LLC
6,500
-
Axero Holdings
2,000
-
Axero Holdings - Revolver
500
-
Davisware, LLC
1,000
-
GDS Holdings US, Inc.
2,786
-
GoReact
2,500
2,000
Granite Comfort, LP
-
-
HemaTerra Holding Company, LLC
-
2,000
LFR Chicken LLC
3,000
-
Madison Logic - Revolver
1,084
-
New England Dental Partners
4,500
6,000
Passageways, Inc.
-
2,000
Pepper Palace - DDTL
2,000
-
Pepper Palace - Revolver
2,500
-
Procurement Partners, LLC
-
1,000
Zollege
1,000
-
29,370
13,000
Total
$ 83,370
$ 58,805
The Company believes its assets will
provide adequate coverage to satisfy these unfunded commitments. As of February 28, 2022, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of
$47.3 million and $37.5 million in available borrowings under the Encina Credit Facility.
112
Text extracted from the filing as submitted to EDGAR. Formatting, tables and exhibits are simplified for reading; the original document is authoritative for anything you rely on.