ITEM 2. | MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Kennedy Lewis Capital Company (“we”, “us”, “our” and the “Company”) and the notes thereto and other financial information included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Forward Looking Statements
Statements contained in this Form 10-Q (including those relating to current and future market conditions and trends in respect thereof) that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, estimates, projections, opinions and/or beliefs of the Company, its advisor, Kennedy Lewis Capital Holdings LLC (in such capacity, the “Advisor”), a Delaware limited liability company that is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”), Kennedy Lewis Investment Management LLC and/or its affiliates (collectively, “Kennedy Lewis”). Any such forward-looking statements may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, which involve assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, are generally identifiable by use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “intend,” “target,” “goals,” “plan,” “forecast,” “project,” other variations on these words or comparable terminology, or the negative of these words. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that may be incorrect, and we cannot assure you that the projections included in these forward-looking statements will come to pass. Our actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including the factors discussed in Item 1A “Risk Factors” section of our registration statement on Form 10 (the “Form 10 Registration Statement”) and elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Other factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially include, but are not limited to, changes in political, economic or industry conditions, the interest rate environment or conditions affecting the financial and capital markets, and future changes in laws or regulations and conditions in our operating areas.
We have based the forward-looking statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q on information available to us on the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements, unless we are required to do so by applicable law. However, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we in the future may file with the SEC.
In addition to factors previously disclosed in our SEC reports, including the factors discussed in the Item 1A “Risk Factors” section of our Form 10 Registration Statement and those identified elsewhere in this report, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance:
| • | The Company is a new company with limited operating history. |
| • | The Company has elected to be regulated as a business development company (a “BDC”), under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), which imposes numerous restrictions on the activities of the Company, including restrictions on leverage and on the nature of its investments. |
| • | The Company intends to invest primarily in privately-held companies for which very little public information exists. Such companies are also generally more vulnerable to economic downturns and may experience substantial variations in operating results. |
| • | The privately-held companies and below-investment-grade securities in which the Company will invest will be difficult to value and are illiquid. |
| • | Defaults by portfolio companies will harm the Company’s operating results. |
| • | Investment in the Company is suitable only for sophisticated investors and requires the financial ability and willingness to accept the high risks and lack of liquidity inherent in an investment in the Company. |
| • | An investment in our common shares of beneficial interest (the “Common Shares”) is not suitable for you if you might need access to the money you invest in the foreseeable future. |
| • | If you are unable to sell your Common Shares, you will be unable to reduce your exposure on any market downturn. |
| • | Our Common Shares are not currently listed on an exchange and given that we have no current intention of pursuing any such listing, it is unlikely that a secondary trading market will develop for our Common Shares. The purchase of our Common Shares is intended to be a long-term investment. We do not intend to list our Common Shares on a national securities exchange. |
| • | Our distributions may be funded from unlimited amounts of offering proceeds or borrowings, which may constitute a return of capital (i.e., a distribution funded solely by investors’ subscription amounts) and reduce the amount of capital available to us for investment. Any capital returned to you through distributions will be distributed after payment of fees and expenses. |
| • | The Company is subject to risks associated with the current interest rate environment and to the extent the Company uses debt to finance its investments, changes in interest rates will affect the cost of capital and net investment income. |
| • | The discontinuation of the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) may adversely affect the Company’s business and results of operations. |
| • | The Company depends upon Kennedy Lewis, the Advisor and Kennedy Lewis Management LP (in such capacity, the “Administrator”) for its success and upon their access to investment professionals. |
| • | The Company operates in a highly competitive market for investment opportunities. |
| • | The Company’s debt investments may be risky and could result in the loss of all or part of its investments. |
| • | There is no public market for the Common Shares. |
| • | There are restrictions on holders of the Common Shares. |
| • | There is a risk that investors may not receive distributions. |
| • | The Company is operating in a period of capital markets disruption and economic uncertainty. |
| • | The Company’s regulatory structure and tax status as a BDC and a regulated investment company (a “RIC”) could limit certain of the Company’s investments or negatively affect the Company’s investment returns. |
| • | Future changes in laws or regulations and conditions in the Company’s operating areas could have an adverse impact on the Company. |
You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. We undertake no obligations to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Overview
The Company is an externally managed, diversified closed-end management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a BDC under the 1940 Act and intends to elect to be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). The Company was formed on February 10, 2022 (the “Inception Date”) as a Delaware statutory trust. The Company commenced operations on February 1, 2023.
The Company is externally managed by the Advisor. The Advisor oversees the management of the Company’s activities and is responsible for making investment decisions with respect to the Company’s portfolio.
The Company’s investment objectives are to maximize the total return to its shareholders in the form of current income and, to a lesser extent, capital appreciation. The Company employs a strategy to provide capital to middle market companies, with a focus on direct originations in private, first lien, senior secured, performing credits.
Financial and Operating Highlights
At September 30, 2023 | | | |
Investment Portfolio | | $ | 328,646,501 | |
Net assets | | $ | 219,555,915 | |
Debt | | $ | 145,000,000 | |
Net asset value per share | | $ | 20.39 | |
Portfolio Activity for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 | |
Purchases during the period | | $ | 413,366,059 | |
Sales or repayments during the period | | $ | (93,579,328) | |
Net investments during the period | | $ | 319,786,731 | |
Number of portfolio companies at end of period | | | 90 | |
Weighted average contractual interest rate of investment commitments based on par | | | 10.82 | % |
Portfolio and Investment Activity
We commenced investment operations on February 1, 2023. Accordingly, there is no activity in the comparable period for the three or nine months ended September 30, 2022.
As of September 30, 2023, our investments consisted of the following:
| | September 30, 2023 Fair Value | | | Percentage of Total Investments at Fair Value | |
| | | | | | |
First Lien | | $ | 295,536,498 | | | | 89.93 | % |
Second Lien | | | 18,317,694 | | | | 5.57 | % |
Equity | | | 14,792,309 | | | | 4.50 | % |
Total | | $ | 328,646,501 | | | | 100.00 | % |
As of the period ended September 30, 2023, all investments were considered to be income-producing investments.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
We commenced investment operations on February 1, 2023, and therefore do not have prior periods with which to compare investment results. For the period from February 10, 2022 (Inception Date) through September 30, 2022 and for the three months ended September 30, 2022, we incurred only organizational and offering costs. Our operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, and for the period from February 10, 2022 (Inception Date) through September 30, 2022 and the three months ended September 30, 2022, were as follows:
| | For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 | | | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 | | | For the period from February 10, 2022 (Inception Date) to September 30, 2022 | | | For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2022 | |
Total investment income | | $ | 9,173,476
| | | $ | 14,850,862
| | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Less: Net expenses | | | 4,974,922 | | | | 8,107,582 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Net investment income (loss) | | | 4,198,554
| | | | 6,743,100
| | | | — | | | | — | |
Net realized gains (losses) | | | 709,438 | | | | 913,214 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | 2,595,085
| | | | 4,931,422
| | | | — | | | | — | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | | $ | 7,503,077 | | | $ | 12,587,736 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Net investment income (loss) per share | | $ | 0.39 | | | $ | 0.63 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations per share | | $ | 0.70 | | | $ | 1.17 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Investment Income
Investment income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 was driven by our deployment of capital since February 1, 2023 (commencement of operations) and an increasing invested balance. There was no investment income prior to February 1, 2023. The composition of our investment income for three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were as follows:
| | For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 | | | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 | |
Interest from investments | | $ | 9,150,770
| | | $ | 14,824,697
| |
Fee income | | | 22,706 | | | | 25,985 | |
Total investment income | | $ | 9,173,476
| | | $ | 14,850,682
| |
Operating Expenses
The composition of our operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2023, and for the three months ended September 30, 2022 were as follows:
| | For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 | | | For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2022 | |
Interest and debt fee expense | | $ | 3,171,049 | | | $ | — | |
Management fees | | | 676,482 | | | | — | |
Capital gains incentive fees | | | 429,740 | | | | — | |
Income incentive fees | | | 465,852 | | | | — | |
Directors’ fees and expenses | | | 100,000 | | | | — | |
Professional fees | | | 497,075 | | | | — | |
Deferred financing expense | | | 173,481 | | | | — | |
Administrative service expenses | | | 298,898 | | | | — | |
Other expenses | | | 132,888 | | | | — | |
Organization costs | | | 1,211 | | | | 80,601
| |
Amortization of continuous offering costs | | | 262,186 | | | | — | |
Total expenses | | | 6,208,862 | | | | 80,601 | |
Management fee waiver | | | — | | | | — | |
Incentive fee waiver | | | (465,852 | ) | | | — | |
Expense waiver | | | (768,088 | ) | | | (80,601 | ) |
Net expenses | | $ | 4,974,922 | | | $ | — | |
Net Realized Gains (Losses) and Net Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments
Net realized gains (losses) and net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were as follows (dollars in thousands). There was no investing activity prior to February 1, 2023 (commencement of operations), and therefore no comparative information is included.
| | For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 | | | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 | |
Net realized gains (losses) | | $ | 709,438 | | | $ | 913,214 | |
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments | | | 2,595,085 | | | | 4,931,422 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | $ | 3,304,523 | | | $ | 5,844,636 | |
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We generate cash from (1) private placements, at which we will accept funds from investors in connection with such investors’ purchases of Common Shares, (2) cash flows from investments and operations, and (3) borrowings from banks or other lenders. Subject to prevailing market conditions, we intend to grow our portfolio of assets by raising additional capital, including through the prudent use of leverage available to us.
Our primary uses of cash are for (1) investments in portfolio companies and other investments to comply with certain portfolio diversification requirements, (2) the cost of operations (including paying the Advisor and the Administrator), (3) debt service of any borrowings and (4) cash distributions to the Company’s shareholders.
Borrowings
We use borrowed funds, known as “leverage,” to make investments and to attempt to increase returns to our shareholders by reducing our overall cost of capital. As a BDC, we are limited in the amount of leverage we can incur under the 1940 Act. We are only allowed to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage, as defined in the 1940 Act, equals at least 150% after such borrowing. As of September 30, 2023, we had $145 million par value of outstanding borrowings and our asset coverage ratio of total assets to total borrowings was 251%, compliant with the minimum asset coverage level of 150% generally required for a BDC by the 1940 Act.
We expect to maintain adequate liquidity and compliance with regulatory and contractual asset coverage requirements.
Sale of Unregistered Securities
The following tables shows the issuances of Common Shares, which were made pursuant to Subscription Agreements entered into with participating investors during the nine months ended September 30, 2023:
Date of Issuance | | Common Shares Issued | | | Subscription Price per Common Share | | | Aggregate Consideration | |
February 1, 2023 | | | 4,037,850 | | | $ | 20.00 | | | $ | 80,757,000 | |
March 1, 2023 | | | 50,251 | | | | 19.90 | | | | 1,000,000 | |
March 31, 2023 | | | 6,314,993 | | | | 19.81 | | | | 125,100,000 | |
May 1, 2023 | | | 62,877 | | | | 19.88 | | | | 1,250,000 | |
June 1, 2023 | | | 3,579 | | | | 19.56 | | | | 70,000 | |
July 1, 2023 | | | 1,455 | | | | 20.07 | | | | 29,200 | |
August 1, 2023 | | | 4,754 | | | | 20.32 | | | | 96,600 | |
September 1, 2023 | | | 14,829 | | | | 20.13 | | | | 298,500 | |
| | | 10,490,588 | | | | | | | $ | 208,601,300 | |
Distributions
Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the record date. The amount to be distributed, if any, is determined by the Board each quarter, and is generally based upon the earnings estimated by the Advisor. The Company intends to distribute net capital gains (i.e., net long-term capital gains in excess of net short-term capital losses), if any, at least annually out of the assets legally available for such distributions. However, the Company may decide in the future to retain such capital gains for investment, incur a corporate-level tax on such capital gains, and elect to treat such capital gains as deemed distributions to shareholders.
In addition, we have adopted a dividend reinvestment plan, pursuant to which each shareholder will receive dividends in the form of additional Common Shares unless they notify the Company that they instead desire to receive cash or a combination of cash and Common Shares as set forth below. If a shareholder receives dividends in the form of Common Shares, dividend proceeds that otherwise would have been distributed in cash will be retained by the Company for reinvestment. Shareholders who receive dividends and other distributions in the form of Common Shares generally are subject to the same U.S. federal tax consequences as investors who elect to receive their distributions in cash; however, since their cash dividends will be reinvested, those investors will not receive cash with which to pay any applicable taxes on re-invested dividends. A shareholder may elect to receive dividends and other distributions in cash or a combination of cash and Common Shares by notifying the Company in the manner set forth in the shareholder’s Subscription Agreement at least 5 business days prior to the dividend or distribution declaration date fixed by the Board for such dividend. If such notice is received by the Company less than 5 business days prior to the relevant dividend or distribution declaration date, then that dividend will be paid in the form of Common Shares and any subsequent dividends will be paid in cash or a combination of cash and Common Shares.
On May 9, 2023, we declared a distribution of $0.30 per share, paid on June 29, 2023 to shareholders of record as of May 9, 2023. Additionally, on August 7, 2023, we declared a distribution of $0.38 per share, paid on August 22, 2023 to shareholders of record as of August 7, 2023.
Taxation as a RIC
We intend to elect to be treated as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. As a RIC, we generally will not be subject to corporate-level U.S. federal income taxes on any net ordinary taxable income or capital gains that we distribute as dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to our shareholders. To qualify as a RIC, we must, among other things, meet certain source-of-income and asset diversification requirements. In addition, in order to maintain RIC tax treatment, we must distribute to our shareholders, for each tax year, an amount equal to at least 90% of our “investment company taxable income,” which includes, among other items, dividends, interest and the excess of any net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses and other taxable income other than any net capital gain reduced by deductible expenses.
Additionally, in order to avoid the imposition of a U.S. federal excise tax, we are required to distribute, in respect of each calendar year, dividends to our shareholders of an amount at least equal to the sum of 98% of our calendar year net ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gains or losses); 98.2% of our capital gain in excess of its capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for a one-year period generally ending on October 31 of the calendar year; and any undistributed amounts from previous years on which we paid no U.S. federal income tax. If we fail to qualify as a RIC for any reason and become subject to corporate tax, the resulting corporate taxes could substantially reduce our net assets, the amount of income available for distribution and the amount of our distributions.
Related Party Transactions and Agreements
Administration Agreement
Kennedy Lewis Management LP serves as our administrator pursuant to an administration agreement (the “Administration Agreement”). Under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator furnishes the Company with office facilities and equipment and provides the Company with clerical, bookkeeping, recordkeeping and other administrative services at such facilities. The Administrator also performs, or oversees the performance of, the Company’s required administrative services, which include being responsible for the financial and other records that the Company is required to maintain and preparing reports to its shareholders and reports and other materials filed with the SEC. In addition, the Administrator assists the Company in determining and publishing its net asset value, oversees the preparation and filing of its tax returns and the printing and dissemination of reports and other materials to its shareholders, and generally oversees the payment of its expenses and the performance of administrative and professional services rendered to the Company by others. Under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator also provides managerial assistance on the Company’s behalf to those portfolio companies that have accepted the Company’s offer to provide such assistance. The Administrator has retained State Street Bank and Trust Company, a Massachusetts trust company, as a sub-administrator to perform any or all of its obligations under the Administration Agreement.
Payments under the Administration Agreement are equal to an amount based upon the Company’s allocable portion (subject to the review of the Board) of the Administrator’s overhead in performing its obligations under the Administration Agreement, including rent, the fees and expenses associated with performing compliance functions and the Company’s allocable portion of the cost of the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer and his or her staff.
Advisory Agreement
Subject to the overall supervision of the Board and in accordance with the 1940 Act, the Advisor manages the Company’s day-to-day operations and provides investment advisory services to the Company, pursuant to an investment advisory agreement (as amended, the “Advisory Agreement”). Under the terms of the Advisory Agreement, the Advisor (i) determines the composition of the Company’s portfolio, the nature and timing of the changes to its portfolio and the manner of implementing such changes; (ii) identifies, evaluates and negotiates the structure of the investments the Company makes; (iii) executes, closes, services and monitors the investments the Company makes; (iv) determines the securities and other assets that the Company purchases, retains or sells; (v) performs due diligence on prospective portfolio companies; and (vi) provides the Company with such other investment advisory, research and related services as the Company may, from time to time, reasonably require for the investment of its funds. Under the Advisory Agreement, the Company pays the Advisor fees for investment management services consisting of the Base Management Fee and the Incentive Fee. See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements—“Related Party Transactions” for additional information.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the management fee was $676,482 and $1,542,831, respectively. At the Advisor’s discretion, $0 and $128,140 of the management fee was waived during the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the management fee, net of waivers was $676,482 and $1,414,691, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, income-based incentive fees was $465,852 and $465,852, respectively. At the Advisor’s discretion, $465,852 and $465,852 of the income incentive fee was waived during the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company accrued capital gains incentive fees of $317,514 and $747,254, respectively, of which none was payable on such date under the Advisory Agreement.
Co-Investment Exemptive Relief
As a BDC, the Company is subject to certain regulatory restrictions in making its investments. For example, BDCs generally are not permitted to co-invest with certain affiliated entities in transactions originated by the BDC or its affiliates in the absence of an exemptive order from the SEC. However, BDCs are permitted to, and may, simultaneously co-invest in transactions where price and quantity are the only negotiated terms. On March 6, 2023, the SEC issued an order (the “Order”) granting the Company’s application for exemptive relief to co-invest, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, in certain private placement transactions, with other funds managed by the Advisor or its affiliates. Under the terms of the Order, in order for the Company to participate in a co-investment transaction, a “required majority” (as defined in Section 57(o) of the 1940 Act) of the Company’s independent trustees must conclude that (i) the terms of the proposed transaction, including the consideration to be paid, are reasonable and fair to the Company and its shareholders and do not involve overreaching with respect of the Company or its shareholders on the part of any person concerned, and (ii) the proposed transaction is consistent with the interests of the Company’s shareholders and is consistent with the Company’s investment objectives and strategies and certain criteria established by the Board.
Expense Support and Conditional Reimbursement Agreement
The Company has entered into an Expense Support Agreement with the Advisor, pursuant to which the Advisor has contractually agreed to pay Other Operating Expenses (as defined below) of the Company on the Company’s behalf (each such payment, a “Required Expense Payment” such that Other Operating Expenses of the Company do not exceed 1.00% (on an annualized basis) of the Company’s applicable quarter-end net asset value. “Other Operating Expenses” include the Company’s organizational and offering expenses (including the Company’s allocable portion of compensation and overhead (including rent, office equipment and utilities) and other expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its administrative obligations under the Administration Agreement, excluding Base Management Fees and Incentive Fees owed to the Advisor and any interest expenses owed by the Company. See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements—“Related Party Transactions” for additional information.
As of September 30, 2023, the total expense support provided by the Advisor since inception was $2,056,419.
Contractual Obligations
Other than payment of fees under the Advisory Agreement and Administration Agreement noted in the “Related Party Transactions and Agreements” section, we had no payment obligations for repayment of debt and other contractual obligations as of September 30, 2023. For additional information on the fees under the Advisory Agreement and Administration Agreement, see Note 3—“Related Party Transactions.”
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
From time-to-time we are a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business in order to meet the needs of our investment in portfolio companies. Such instruments include commitments to extend credit and may involve, in varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of amounts recognized on our balance sheet. Prior to extending such credit, we attempt to limit our credit risk by conducting extensive due diligence, obtaining collateral where necessary and negotiating appropriate financial covenants. As of September 30, 2023, we had $6,713,666 in unfunded delayed draw term loan commitments and $2,650,602 in unfunded revolver commitments.
Commitments
In the ordinary course of business, we may enter into future funding commitments. We maintain sufficient financial resources to satisfy any unfunded commitments, including cash on hand and available borrowings to fund such unfunded commitments. Please refer to Note 6 in the notes to our consolidated financial statements—“Commitments and Contingencies” for further detail of these unfunded commitments.
Recent Developments
We have evaluated recent developments through the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements and determined that there are no recent developments outside the ordinary scope of business that require adjustment to, or disclosure in, the consolidated financial statements.
Significant Accounting Estimates and Critical Accounting Policies
The Company’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The Company is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the FASB ASC Topic 946, Financial Services – Investment Companies. These consolidated financial statements reflect adjustments that in the opinion of management are necessary for the fair statement of the financial position and results of operations for the periods presented herein.
While our significant accounting policies are also described in Note 2 of the notes to our consolidated financial statements—“Significant Accounting Policies”, we believe the following accounting policies require the most significant judgment in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
Valuation of Portfolio Investments
In accordance with Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act, the Board has designated the Advisor as the Company’s “Valuation Designee”. The Advisor has established a Valuation Committee that is responsible for determining in good faith the fair value of the Company’s investments in instances where there is no readily available market quotation. A readily available market quotation is not expected to exist for most of the investments in the Company’s portfolio, and the Company values these portfolio investments at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Designee. Investments for which market quotations are readily available may be priced by independent pricing services. The Company has retained an external, independent valuation firm to provide data and valuation analyses on the Company’s portfolio companies.
The Advisor values the Company’s investments based on the type of financial instrument as outlined below:
Securities that are listed on a securities, commodities or futures exchange or market (including such securities when traded in the after‐hours market), will be valued (i) at their last sales prices on the date of determination on the primary exchange on which such securities were traded on such date, or (ii) at their last sales prices on the consolidated tape if such securities on the primary exchange on which such securities were traded on such date were reported on the consolidated tape, or (iii) in the event that the date of determination is not a date upon which an exchange was open for trading, on the date on which such exchange was previously open but not more than 10 days prior to the date of determination.
Securities that are not listed on an exchange but are traded over‐the‐counter will be valued at representative “bid” quotations if held long and representative “asked” quotations if held short, unless included in the NASDAQ National Market System, in which case they will be valued based upon their last sales prices (if such prices are available); provided that if the last sales price of a security does not fall between the last “bid” and “asked” price for such security on such date, the Advisor will value such security at the mean between the last “bid” and “asked” price for such security on such date. Securities not denominated in U.S. dollars will be translated into U.S. dollars at prevailing exchange rates as the Advisor may reasonably determine. All other investments will be assigned such value as the Advisor may reasonably determine. When available, quotations from brokers or pricing services will be considered in the valuation process. For example, the Advisor will utilize indicative prices from brokers or pricing services to determine the fair value of bonds and bank debt and may internally validate the quotes obtained or utilize the mean of the bid (if long) and ask (if short) quotes obtained. For these quotes to be considered for valuation purposes they must be sent directly from the brokers to the Advisor. If quotations are not readily available through pricing services or brokers for a security, financial instrument or other property, the Advisor will determine its value in such manner as the Advisor, in its sole discretion, reasonably determines. This is generally achieved by engaging a third‐party valuation firm to value such securities and provide a range of values for each position. The Advisor will then mark the position within that range.
The determination of fair value generally considers factors such as comparisons to public companies, comparable transactions, markets in which a company does business, the nature and realizable value of any collateral, discounted cash flows, earnings and ability to make payments, and market yields. If an event such as a purchase, sale, or public offering occurs, the Advisor may consider the pricing indicated by such event to corroborate its internal valuation.
FASB ASC 820 specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. ASC 820 also provides guidance regarding a fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes information used to measure fair value and the effect of fair value measurements on earnings and provides for enhanced disclosures determined by the level of information used in the valuation.
The Company classifies the inputs used to measure fair values into the following hierarchy:
• Level 1—Valuations are based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that are accessible to the Company at the measurement date.
• Level 2—Valuations are based on similar assets or liabilities in active markets, or quoted prices identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant inputs are observable.
• Level 3—Valuations are based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models incorporating significant unobservable inputs, such as discounted cash flow models and other similar valuation techniques. The valuation of Level 3 assets and liabilities generally requires significant management judgment due to the inability to observe inputs to valuation.
In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of observable input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Advisor’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and it considers factors specific to the investment.
Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the beginning of the period in which the transfer occurs. In addition to using the above inputs in investment valuations, the Advisor applies the valuation policy approved by the Board that is consistent with ASC 820. Consistent with the valuation policy, the Advisor evaluates the source of inputs, including any markets in which its investments are trading (or any markets in which securities with similar attributes are trading), in determining fair value. When a security is valued based on prices provided by reputable dealers or pricing services (that is, broker quotes), the Advisor subjects those prices to various additional criteria in making the determination as to whether a particular investment would qualify for treatment as a Level 2 or Level 3 investment. For example, the Advisor reviews pricing provided by dealers or pricing services in order to determine if observable market information is being used, versus unobservable inputs. Some additional factors considered include the number of prices obtained as well as an assessment as to their quality, such as the depth of the relevant market relative to the size of the Company’s position.
Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Company’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of such investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values that may ultimately be realized. Further, such investments are generally less liquid than publicly traded securities and may be subject to contractual and other restrictions on resale. If the Company were required to liquidate a portfolio investment in a forced or liquidation sale, it could realize amounts that are different from the amounts presented and such differences could be material.
In addition, changes in the market environment, including the impact of changes in broader market indices and credit spreads, and other events that may occur over the life of the investments may cause the gains or losses ultimately realized on these investments to be different than the unrealized gains or losses reflected herein.
Investment Related Transactions, Revenue Recognition and Expenses
Investment transactions and the related revenue and expenses are recorded on a trade-date basis. Realized gains or losses are recorded upon the sale or liquidation of investments and are calculated as the difference between the net proceeds from the sale or liquidation, if any, and the cost basis of the investment using the specific identification method. Unrealized appreciation or depreciation reflects the difference between the fair value of the investments and the cost basis of the investments. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis and includes the accretion of discounts and amortizations of premiums. Discounts from and premiums to par value on debt investments purchased are accreted/amortized into interest income over the life of the respective security using the effective interest method. Upon prepayment of a loan or debt security, any prepayment premiums, unamortized fees and unamortized discounts are recorded as interest income.
In the general course of its business, the Company receives certain fees from portfolio companies, which are non-recurring in nature. Such fees include loan prepayment penalties, structuring fees and loan waiver amendment fees, and commitment fees, and are recorded as other income in investment income when earned.
Certain investments may have contractual payment-in-kind (“PIK”) interest. PIK represents accrued interest that is added to the principal amount of the investment on the interest payment date rather than being paid in cash and generally becomes due at maturity or upon the investment being called by the issuer. PIK is recorded as interest income. Because the Company intends to elect to be treated as a RIC for U.S. federal income purposes under Subchapter M of the Code, therefore, this non-cash source of income must be paid out to shareholders in the form of distributions, even though the Company has not yet collected the cash.
Receivable for investments sold and payable for investments purchased represent unsettled investments.
Organization and Offering Costs
Organizational costs to establish the Company are charged to expense as incurred. These expenses consist primarily of legal fees and other costs of organizing the Company.
Offering costs in connection with the offering of Common Shares of the Company are capitalized as a deferred charge and amortized to expense on a straight-line basis over 12 months from February 1, 2023, the commencement of operations.
On June 26, 2023, the Company filed with the SEC an initial registration statement on Form N-2. The Company records expenses related to registration statement filings and applicable offering costs as deferred financing costs in other assets and a portion of these expenses are charged as a reduction of capital upon completion of an offering of registered securities. The costs associated with any subsequent renewals of the Company’s registration statements are expensed as incurred.
Under the Advisory Agreement and the Administration Agreement, the Company, either directly or through reimbursements to the Advisor or its affiliates, is responsible for its organization and offering costs. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Advisor and its affiliates incurred organization and offering costs of $0 and $328,240, respectively, on behalf of the Company. For the three months ended September 30, 2022 and the period from February 10, 2022 (date of inception) to September 30, 2022, the Advisor and its affiliates incurred organization and offering costs of $211,740 and $309,104, respectively, on behalf of the Company. As of September 30, 2023, the total amount owed to the Company from the Advisor pursuant to the Expense Support and Conditional Reimbursement Agreement is included in Due from Advisor in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. As of September 30, 2023, the total amount owed to the Advisor and its affiliates for expenses incurred on behalf of the Company is included in payable to the Advisor and its affiliates in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
ITEM 3. | QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK |
We are subject to certain financial market risks, such as interest rate fluctuations. Because we fund a portion of our investments with borrowings, our net investment income is affected by the difference between the rate at which we invest and the rate at which we borrow. As a result, there can be no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income. The U.S. Federal Reserve and other central banks have raised interest rates multiple times in recent years. As a result, key base interest rates, such as SOFR and LIBOR, may fluctuate over time. As of September 30, 2023, 90% of investments at fair value represent floating-rate investments.
The following table estimates the potential changes in net cash flow generated from interest income and expenses, should interest rates increase or decrease by 100, 200 or 300 basis points. Assuming that the interim and unaudited Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of September 30, 2023 were to remain constant and that we took no actions to alter our interest rate sensitivity as of such date, the following table shows the annualized impact of hypothetical base rate changes in interest rates. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimated in the table.
Change in Interest Rates | | Increase (Decrease) in Investment Income | | | Increase (Decrease) in Investment Expense | | | Increase (Decrease) in Net Investment Income | |
Up 300 basis points | | $ | 8,993,682 | | | $
| 4,350,000 | | | $
| 4,643,682 | |
Up 200 basis points | | | 5,995,788 | | | | 2,900,000 | | | | 3,095,788 | |
Up 100 basis points | | | 2,997,894 | | | | 1,450,000 | | | | 1,547,894 | |
Down 100 basis points | | | (2,997,894 | ) | | | (1,450,000 | ) | | | (1,547,894 | ) |
Down 200 basis points | | | (5,995,788 | ) | | | (2,900,000 | ) | | | (3,095,788 | ) |
Down 300 basis points | | | (8,993,682 | ) | | | (4,350,000 | ) | | | (4,643,682 | ) |
Because we may borrow money to make investments, our net investment income may be dependent on the difference between the rate at which we borrow funds and the rate at which we invest these funds. In periods of increasing interest rates, our cost of funds would increase, which may reduce our net investment income. As a result, there can be no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income.
ITEM 4. | CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES |
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures
As required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “1934 Act”) we evaluated, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President and our Chief Financial Officer, the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the 1934 Act) as of September 30, 2023. Based on the foregoing evaluation, our President and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of September 30, 2023, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to accomplish their objectives at the reasonable assurance level that we would meet our disclosure obligations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that it will detect or uncover failures within the Company to disclose material information otherwise required to be set forth in the Company’s periodic reports.
Changes in internal control over financial reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) under the 1934 Act) that occurred during our most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
From time to time, the Company may become a party to certain legal proceedings incidental to the normal course of its business. As of September 30, 2023, management is not aware of any pending or threatened material litigation.
In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in the Item 1A “Risk Factors” section of our Form 10 Registration Statement, which could materially affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. The risks described in our Form 10 Registration Statement are not the only risks facing us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.
There have been no material changes during the three months ended September 30, 2023 to the risk factors previously disclosed in the Item 1A “Risk Factors” section of our Form 10 Registration Statement and in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2023. If any of such risks actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected. If that happens, the value of our securities could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.
ITEM 2. | UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS |
Previously disclosed by the Company on its current reports on Form 8-K.
ITEM 3. | DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES |
Not applicable.
ITEM 4. | MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES |
Not applicable.
During the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2023, none of our trustees or executive officers adopted or terminated any contract, instruction or written plan for the purchase or sale of our securities to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) or any “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement.”
The following exhibits are filed as part of this report, or hereby incorporated by reference to exhibits previously filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission:
Exhibit Number | Description of Document |
| |
| Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust(1) |
| |
| By-Laws(2) |
| |
| Secured Credit Facility Agreement, dated as of April 20, 2023, by and among KLCC SPV GS1 LLC, as Borrower, Various Lenders, Goldman Sachs Bank USA, as Syndication Agent and Administrative Agent, and State Street Bank and Trust Company, as Collateral Agent, Collateral Custodian and Collateral Administrator(3) |
| |
| Certification of the President pursuant to Rule 13a-14 (a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| |
| Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14 (a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| |
| Certification of the President pursuant to 18 U.S. C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002. |
| |
| Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S. C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
(1) | Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company’s Form 10 Registration Statement filed on January 13, 2023. |
(2) | Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company’s Form 10 Registration Statement filed on January 13, 2023. |
(3) | Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 25, 2023. |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| Kennedy Lewis Capital Company |
| | |
Date: November 13, 2023 | By: | /s/ James Didden |
| Name: | James Didden |
| Title: | President |
| | |
Date: November 13, 2023 | By: | /s/ Anthony Pasqua |
| Name: | Anthony Pasqua |
| Title: | Chief Financial Officer |
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