Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Announces First Quarter

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Announces First Quarter

Well Positioned to Further Improve Portfolio Performance and Increase Investment Income in 2022;
Refinances JPMorgan Chase Bank (“JPM”) Credit Facility and Reduces Cost of Capital

Declares Quarterly Distribution of $0.63 Per Share

NEW YORK, May 10, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) (the “Company” or “Portman Ridge”) announced today its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022.

First Quarter 2022 Highlights

  • Net asset value (“NAV”) for the first quarter of 2022 remained relatively flat at $278.3 million ($28.76 per share1) as compared to $280.1 million ($28.88 per share) in the fourth quarter of 2021, despite pervasive market volatility and other macro-economic and political factors.
  • Total investment income the first quarter of 2022 was $16.9 million, of which $13.0 million was attributable to interest income from the debt securities portfolio.
  • Excluding the impact of purchase price accounting, core investment income2 for the first quarter of 2022 was $15.1 million.
  • Net investment income (“NII”) for the first quarter of 2022 was $7.9 million ($0.82 per share).
  • Total investments at fair value as of March 31, 2022 was $568.0 million; when excluding CLO Funds, Joint Ventures and short-term investments, these investments are spread across 30 different industries and 116 entities with an average par balance per entity of approximately $3.3 million.
  • As of March 31, 2022, six of the Company’s debt investments were on non-accrual status compared to seven as of December 31, 2021.
  • As of March 31, 2022, par value of outstanding borrowings was $352.4 million with an asset coverage ratio of total assets to total borrowings of 180{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}. On a net basis, leverage as of March 31, 2022 was 0.97x.3
  • During the quarter, the Company restructured its stock buybacks and repurchased 22,990 of shares under its Renewed Stock Repurchase program at an aggregate cost of approximately $545 thousand.

_____________________________
1
NAV per share as determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or U.S. GAAP, was decreased 5 cents per share due to the impact of a one-time quarterly tax provision.
2 Core investment income represents reported total investment income as determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or U.S. GAAP, less the impact of purchase price discount accounting in connection with the Garrison Capital Inc. (“GARS”) and Harvest Capital Credit Corporation (“HCAP”) mergers. Portman Ridge believes presenting core investment income and the related per share amount is useful and appropriate supplemental disclosure for analyzing its financial performance due to the unique circumstance giving rise to the purchase accounting adjustment. However, core investment income is a non-U.S. GAAP measure and should not be considered as a replacement for total investment income and other earnings measures presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Instead, core investment income should be reviewed only in connection with such U.S. GAAP measures in analyzing Portman Ridge’s financial performance.
3 Net leverage is calculated as the ratio between (A) debt, excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, less available cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and (B) NAV. Portman Ridge believes presenting a net leverage ratio is useful and appropriate supplemental disclosure because it reflects the Company’s financial condition net of $83.6 million of cash and cash equivalents. However, the net leverage ratio is a non-U.S. GAAP measure and should not be considered as a replacement for the regulatory asset coverage ratio and other similar information presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Instead, the net leverage ratio should be reviewed only in connection with such U.S. GAAP measures in analyzing Portman Ridge’s financial condition.

Subsequent Events

  • Declared a stockholder distribution of $0.63 per share for the second quarter of 2022, payable on June 7, 2022 to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 24, 2022.
  • On April 29, 2022, the Company refinanced its Revolving Credit Facility with JPMorgan Chase Bank as administrative agent. The amended agreement places three-month SOFR as the benchmark interest rate and reduces the applicable margin to 2.80{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} per annum from 2.85{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} per annum. Other amendments include the extension of the reinvestment period and scheduled termination date to April 29, 2025 and April 29, 2026, respectively.

Management Commentary
Ted Goldthorpe, Chief Executive Officer of Portman Ridge, stated, “Despite operating in an environment with rising interest rates, market volatility, and the war in the Ukraine, we reported a relatively unchanged NAV per share for the first quarter, reduced our non-accruals, and maintained our dividend of $0.63 per share. While many of our peers have seen raised interest rates on their lines of credit and outstanding debt, we have been able to restructure our agreement with JPMorgan Chase and lower the interest rate, shift from LIBOR to SOFR, and extend the maturity date by 2 ½ years. Although investment activity and originations were lower in the first quarter of 2022 as compared to the second half of 2021, a sector-wide trend, subsequent to quarter end we have deployed approximately $35 million of our available cash in new investments and have a pipeline of an additional $20 million to $30 million we expect to deploy before the end of the second quarter. We are also pleased to announce that we have added two new seasoned members to our board. Overall, we believe that we are well-positioned to further improve our portfolio performance and increase investment income in 2022.”

Select Financial Highlights

    For the Three Months Ended March 31,
 
    2022     2021  
Total Investment Income     16,944       18,305  
Total Expenses     9,036       10,092  
Net Investment Income     7,908       8,213  
                 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments     (5,553 )     (5,086 )
Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments     2,143       6,745  
Tax (provision) benefit on realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments     (440 )      
Net realized and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, net of taxes     (3,850 )     1,659  
Realized gains (losses) on extinguishments of debt           (1,835 )
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations   $ 4,058     $ 8,037  
Net Increase (Decrease) In Stockholders’ Equity Resulting from Operations per Common Share (4):            
Basic and Diluted:   $ 0.42     $ 1.07  
Net Investment Income Per Common Share (4):            
Basic and Diluted:   $ 0.82     $ 1.09  
Weighted Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding—Basic and Diluted (4)     9,698,099       7,517,453  

4 The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021. As a result, the share and per share amounts have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods prior to August 26, 2021.

     
($ in thousands)   For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2022
Interest from investments in debt excluding accretion   $ 9,812  
Purchase discount accounting     1,812  
PIK Investment Income     1,382  
CLO Income     1,634  
JV Income     2,108  
Service Fees     196  
Total Investment Income     16,944  
Less: Purchase discount accounting     (1,812 )
Core Investment Income     15,132  

Total investment income for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and March 31, 2021 was $16.9 million and $18.3 million, respectively. Total expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and March 31, 2021 were $9.0 million and $10.1 million, respectively.

At both March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the weighted average contractual interest rate on our interest earning debt securities portfolio was approximately 8.1{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}.

Investment Portfolio Activity
The composition of our investment portfolio as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 at cost and fair value was as follows:

             
($ in thousands)   March 31, 2022
(unaudited)
  December 31, 2021
Security Type   Cost/Amortized
Cost
    Fair Value     {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}(5)     Cost/Amortized
Cost
    Fair Value     {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}(¹)  
Senior Secured Loan   $ 394,552     $ 395,062       69     $ 361,556     $ 364,701       66  
Junior Secured Loan     69,795       60,976       11       82,996       70,549       13  
Senior Unsecured Bond     416       43       0       416       43       0  
Equity Securities     24,637       22,633       4       26,680       22,586       4  
CLO Fund Securities     51,163       29,057       5       51,561       31,632       6  
Asset Manager Affiliates(6)     17,791                   17,791              
Joint Ventures     65,305       60,217       11       64,365       60,474       11  
Derivatives     31       23             31       (2,412 )      
Total   $ 623,690     $ 568,011       100 {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}   $ 605,396     $ 547,573       100 {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}

5Represents percentage of total portfolio at fair value.
6Represents the equity investment in the Asset Manager Affiliates.

As of March 31, 2022, six of the Company’s debt investments were on non-accrual status compared to seven investments on a non-accrual status as of December 31, 2021. Investments on non-accrual status as of March 31, 2022 decreased to 0.2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 1.9{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} of the Company’s investment portfolio at fair value and amortized cost, respectively, compared to 0.5{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 2.8{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} as of December 31, 2021.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
As of March 31, 2022, we had $352.4 million (par value) of borrowings outstanding with a weighted average interest rate of 3.2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}, of which $108.0 million par value had a fixed rate and $244.4 million par value had a floating rate. Portman Ridge expects future portfolio investments to predominately be floating rate investments.

As of March 31, 2022, the Company had unrestricted cash of $20.5 million and restricted cash of $63.1 million. This compares to unrestricted cash of $28.9 million and restricted cash of $39.4 million as of December 31, 2021. As of March 31, 2022, we had $34.4 million of available borrowing capacity under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, and $25.0 million of borrowing capacity under the 2018-2 Revolving Credit Facility.

Total assets and shareholder’s equity as of March 31, 2022 were $660.9 million and $278.3 million respectively, as compared to $648.3 million and $280.1 million, respectively as of December 31, 2021.

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the fair value of investments and cash were as follows:

($ in thousands)      
Security Type   March 31, 2022   December 31, 2021
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 20,524     $ 28,919  
Restricted Cash     63,094       39,421  
Senior Secured Loan     395,062       364,701  
Junior Secured Loan     60,976       70,549  
Senior Unsecured Bond     43       43  
Equity Securities     22,633       22,586  
CLO Fund Securities     29,057       31,632  
Joint Ventures     60,217       60,474  
Derivatives     23       (2,412 )
Total   $ 651,629     $ 615,913  


Interest Rate Volatility

The Company’s investment income is affected by fluctuations in various interest rates, including LIBOR and prime rates.

As of March 31, 2022, approximately 87{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} of the Company’s debt securities portfolio were either floating rate with a spread to an interest rate index such as LIBOR or the prime rate. 76.6{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} of these floating rate loans contain LIBOR floors ranging between 0.50{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 2.00{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}.

In periods of rising or lowering interest rates, the cost of the portion of debt associated with the 4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes Due 2026 would remain the same, given that this debt is at a fixed rate, while the interest rate on borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility would fluctuate with changes in interest rates.

Generally, an increase in the base rate index for floating rate investment assets would increase gross investment income and a decrease in the base rate index for such assets would decrease gross investment income (in either case, such increase/decrease may be limited by interest rate floors/minimums for certain investment assets).

    Impact on net investment income from
a change in interest rates at:
    ($ in thousands)
    1{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}   2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}   3{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}
Increase in interest rate   $ 1,523     $ 3,167     $ 4,814  
Decrease in interest rate   $ 746     $ 746     $ 746  

Net investment income assuming a 1{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} increase in interest rates would increase by approximately $1.5 million on an annualized basis. If the increase in rates was more significant, such as 2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} or 3{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}, the net effect on net investment income would be an increase of approximately $3.2 million and $4.8 million, respectively.

On an annualized basis, a decrease in interest rates of 1{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}, 2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} or 3{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} would result in an increase in net investment income of approximately $746 thousand. The effect on net investment income from declines in interest rates is impacted by interest rate floors on certain of our floating rate investments, as there is no floor on our floating rate debt facility and the 2018-2 Secured Notes.

Conference Call and Webcast
We will hold a conference call on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 9:00 am Eastern Time to discuss our first quarter 2022 financial results. To access the call, stockholders, prospective stockholders and analysts should dial (866) 757-5630 approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the conference call and use the conference ID 5981065.

A replay of this conference call will be available from approximately 12:00 p.m. ET on May 11 through May 18. The dial in number for the replay is (855) 859-2056 and the conference ID is 5981065.

A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed via the Internet, on a listen-only basis on the Company’s website www.portmanridge.com in the Investor Relations section under Events and Presentations. The webcast can also be accessed by clicking the following link: Portman Ridge First Quarter 2022 Conference Call. The online archive of the webcast will be available on the Company’s website shortly after the call.

About Portman Ridge Finance Corporation
Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) is a publicly traded, externally managed investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Portman Ridge’s middle market investment business originates, structures, finances and manages a portfolio of term loans, mezzanine investments and selected equity securities in middle market companies. Portman Ridge’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of BC Partners Advisors, LP.

Portman Ridge’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), earnings releases, press releases and other financial, operational and governance information are available on the Company’s website at www.portmanridge.com.

About BC Partners Advisors L.P. and BC Partners Credit
BC Partners is a leading international investment firm with over $40 billion of assets under management in private equity, private credit and real estate strategies. Established in 1986, BC Partners has played an active role in developing the European buyout market for three decades. Today, BC Partners executives operate across markets as an integrated team through the firm’s offices in North America and Europe. Since inception, BC Partners has completed 117 private equity investments in companies with a total enterprise value of €149 billion and is currently investing its eleventh private equity fund. For more information, please visit www.bcpartners.com.

BC Partners Credit was launched in February 2017 and has pursued a strategy focused on identifying attractive credit opportunities in any market environment and across sectors, leveraging the deal sourcing and infrastructure made available from BC Partners.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. The matters discussed in this press release, as well as in future oral and written statements by management of Portman Ridge Finance Corporation, that are forward-looking statements are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and include, but are not limited to, projected financial performance, expected development of the business, plans and expectations about future investments and the future liquidity of the Company. We generally identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “outlook”, “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar words. Forward-looking statements are based upon current plans, estimates and expectations that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements.

Important assumptions include our ability to originate new investments, and achieve certain margins and levels of profitability, the availability of additional capital, and the ability to maintain certain debt to asset ratios. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of a projection or forward-looking statement in this press release should not be regarded as a representation that such plans, estimates, expectations or objectives will be achieved. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such plans, estimates or expectations include, among others, (1) uncertainty of the expected financial performance of the Company; (2) expected synergies and savings associated with merger transactions effectuated by the Company; (3) the ability of the Company and/or its adviser to implement its business strategy; (4) evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes; (5) changes in general economic and/or industry specific conditions; (6) the impact of increased competition; (7) business prospects and the prospects of the Company’s portfolio companies; (8) contractual arrangements with third parties; (9) any future financings by the Company; (10) the ability of Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC to attract and retain highly talented professionals; (11) the Company’s ability to fund any unfunded commitments; (12) any future distributions by the Company; (13) changes in regional or national economic conditions, including but not limited to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and their impact on the industries in which we invest; and (14) other changes in the conditions of the industries in which we invest and other factors enumerated in our filings with the SEC. The forward-looking statements should be read in conjunction with the risks and uncertainties discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, including the Company’s most recent Form 10-K and other SEC filings. We do not undertake to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required to be reported under the rules and regulations of the SEC.

Contacts:
Portman Ridge Finance Corporation
650 Madison Avenue, 23rd floor
New York, NY 10022
info@portmanridge.com

Jason Roos
Chief Financial Officer
Jason.Roos@bcpartners.com
(212) 891-2880

Lena Cati
The Equity Group Inc.
lcati@equityny.com
(212) 836-9611

Serena Liegey
The Equity Group Inc.
sliegey@equityny.com
(212) 836-9630

PORTMAN RIDGE FINANCE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

    March 31, 2022     December 31,
2021
 
    (Unaudited)        
ASSETS            
Investments at fair value:            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments (amortized cost: 2022 – $490,597; 2021 – $479,153)   $ 464,754     $ 452,482  
Non-controlled affiliated investments (amortized cost: 2022 – $74,951; 2021 – $74,082)     75,129       74,142  
Controlled affiliated investments (cost: 2022 – $58,142; 2021 – $52,130)     28,128       23,361  
Total Investments at Fair Value (cost: 2022 – $623,690; 2021 – $605,365)     568,011       549,985  
Cash and cash equivalents     20,524       28,919  
Restricted cash     63,094       39,421  
Interest receivable     3,119       5,514  
Receivable for unsettled trades     2,153       20,193  
Due from affiliates     592       507  
Other assets     3,365       3,762  
Total Assets   $ 660,858     $ 648,301  
LIABILITIES            
2018-2 Secured Notes (net of discount of: 2022 – $1,358; 2021 – $1,403)     162,504       162,460  
4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes Due 2026 (net of discount of: 2022 – $2,046; 2021 – $2,157; net of deferred financing costs of: 2022 – $977; 2021 – $951)     104,977       104,892  
Great Lakes Portman Ridge Funding LLC Revolving Credit Facility (net of deferred financing costs of: 2022 – $640; 2021 – $732)     79,930       79,839  
Derivative liabilities (cost: 2021 – $31)           2,412  
Payable for unsettled trades     21,622       5,397  
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities     5,101       4,819  
Accrued interest payable     3,325       2,020  
Due to affiliates     1,286       1,799  
Management and incentive fees payable     3,812       4,541  
Total Liabilities     382,557       368,179  
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES            
NET ASSETS            
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share, 20,000,000 common shares authorized; 9,867,998 issued, and 9,676,705 outstanding at March 31, 2022, and 9,867,998 issued, and 9,699,695 outstanding at December 31, 2021     97       97  
Capital in excess of par value     733,327       733,095  
Total distributable (loss) earnings     (455,123 )     (453,070 )
Total Net Assets     278,301       280,122  
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   $ 660,858     $ 648,301  
NET ASSET VALUE PER COMMON SHARE (4)   $ 28.76     $ 28.88  

(4) The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021, the common shares and net asset value per common share have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods presented.


PORTMAN RIDGE FINANCE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

    For the Three Months Ended March 31,
    2022     2021  
INVESTMENT INCOME            
Interest income:            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments   $ 12,667     $ 14,470  
Non-controlled affiliated investments     591       233  
Total interest income     13,258       14,703  
Payment-in-kind income:            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments     1,126       1,132  
Non-controlled affiliated investments     256        
Total payment-in-kind income     1,382       1,132  
Dividend income:            
Non-controlled affiliated investments     945       814  
Controlled affiliated investments     1,163       1,226  
Total dividend income     2,108       2,040  
Fees and other income     196       430  
Total investment income     16,944       18,305  
EXPENSES            
Management fees     2,135       1,793  
Performance-based incentive fees     1,678       2,094  
Interest and amortization of debt issuance costs     3,344       3,380  
Professional fees     845       1,494  
Administrative services expense     847       613  
Other general and administrative expenses     187       718  
Total expenses     9,036       10,092  
NET INVESTMENT INCOME     7,908       8,213  
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS            
Net realized gains (losses) from investment transactions:            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments     (3,670 )     (5,195 )
Non-controlled affiliated investments     212       109  
Derivatives     (2,095 )      
Net realized gain (loss) on investments     (5,553 )     (5,086 )
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments     829       6,263  
Non-controlled affiliated investments     117       331  
Controlled affiliated investments     (1,245 )     625  
Derivatives     2,442       (474 )
Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments     2,143       6,745  
Tax (provision) benefit on realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments     (440 )      
Net realized and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, net of taxes     (3,850 )     1,659  
Realized gains (losses) on extinguishments of debt           (1,835 )
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS   $ 4,058     $ 8,037  
Net Increase (Decrease) In Stockholders’ Equity Resulting from Operations per Common Share (4):            
Basic and Diluted:   $ 0.42     $ 1.07  
Net Investment Income Per Common Share (4):            
Basic and Diluted:   $ 0.82     $ 1.09  
Weighted Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding—Basic and Diluted (1)     9,698,099       7,517,453  

(4) The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021, the common shares and net asset value per common share have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods presented.

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Resumes Share Repurchase

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Resumes Share Repurchase

NEW YORK, March 21, 2022 (Globe NEWSWIRE) — Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) (the “Company”) currently introduced that it has entered into a new Rule 10b5-1 stock trading strategy to facilitate the repurchase of its typical stock in accordance with its recently re-authorized $10 million share repurchase system.

Repurchases might be designed in the open up current market at prevailing marketplace costs from time to time as industry disorders warrant. All repurchases will be carried out in accordance with the applicable necessities of Guidelines 10b5-1 and 10b-18 underneath the U.S. Securities Trade Act of 1934.

An unbiased U.S. broker-seller is performing as the Company’s agent to purchase its shares on pre-arranged conditions pursuant to the Rule 10b5-1 Stock Investing Plan.

Of note, on March 8, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors re-approved its share repurchase program, whereby the Organization may well repurchase up to an aggregate of $10 million of its shares in the open up marketplace until March 31, 2023, which include pursuant to the previously mentioned-described new Rule 10b5-1 stock buying and selling approach.

About Portman Ridge Finance Company

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) is a publicly traded, externally managed financial commitment organization that has elected to be controlled as a small business development corporation underneath the Expense Organization Act of 1940. Portman Ridge’s middle sector investment decision small business originates, buildings, funds and manages a portfolio of phrase financial loans, mezzanine investments and chosen equity securities in center industry organizations. Portman Ridge’s investment routines are managed by its investment adviser, Sierra Crest Expense Management LLC, an affiliate of BC Associates Advisors, LP.

Portman Ridge’s filings with the Securities and Trade Fee (the “SEC”), earnings releases, push releases and other fiscal, operational and governance details are accessible on the Company’s web page at www.portmanridge.com.

Cautionary Assertion Concerning Forward-Searching Statements

This push release consists of ahead-looking statements relating to repurchases of shares of the Company’s popular inventory. There is no assurance that repurchases will be made in any specific quantities or that the market place selling price of the Company’s shares, either totally or relative to net asset benefit, will maximize as a consequence of any share repurchases, or that any repurchases will increase stockholder price over the prolonged term. The ahead-on the lookout statements ought to be go through in conjunction with the challenges and uncertainties talked about in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which includes the Company’s most recent Kind 10-K and other SEC filings.

Contacts:
Portman Ridge Finance Company
650 Madison Avenue, 23rd floor
New York, NY 10022
information@portmanridge.com

Jason Roos
Jason.Roos@bcpartners.com
(212) 891-2880

The Equity Team Inc.
Lena Cati
lcati@equityny.com  
(212) 836-9611

Serena Liegey
sliegey@equityny.com
(212) 836-9630

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Announces Full Year 2021

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Announces Full Year 2021

NEW YORK, March 10, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) (the “Company” or “Portman Ridge”) announced today its financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2021.

The Company also declared a quarterly stockholder distribution of $0.63 per share for the first quarter of 2022, payable on March 30, 2022 to stockholders of record at the close of business on March 21, 2022. This is an increase of $0.01 per share from $0.62 per share distributed in the fourth quarter of 2021 and $0.60 per share distributed in preceding quarters.

Full Year 2021 Highlights1

  • Net asset value (“NAV”) for full year 2021 increased to $280.1 million ($28.88 per share) from $216.3 million ($28.77 per share) year-over-year, reflecting broad-based improvements in the debt portfolio investments and joint ventures.
  • Total investment income for full year 2021 increased to $80.1 million, of which $63.8 million was attributable to interest income from the debt securities portfolio. This compares to total investment income of $42.8 million in 2020, of which $31.4 million was attributable to interest income from the debt securities portfolio.
  • Excluding the impact of purchase price accounting, core investment income2 for the full year 2021 was $63.4 million, an increase of $24.3 million as compared to core investment income of $39.1 million in 2020
  • Net investment income (“NII”) for full year 2021 increased to $42.0 million ($4.92 per share) as compared to $17.0 million ($3.40 per share) a year ago.
  • Core NII3 for full year 2021 increased to $25.4 million ($2.97 per share) as compared to $13.3 million ($2.67 per share)1 a year ago.
  • Total investments at fair value (excluding derivatives) at December 31, 2021 was $550.0 million; when excluding CLO funds and Joint Ventures, these investments are spread across 30 different industries and 113 different entities, with an average par balance per investment of approximately $3.3 million. This compares to $487.7 million as of December 31, 2020, comprised of investments in 121 entities.
  • As of December 31, 2021, par value of outstanding borrowings was $352.4 million with an asset coverage ratio of total assets to total borrowings of 178{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}. On a net basis, leverage as of December 31, 2021 was 1.01x.4
  • During the year, the Company redeemed in full the aggregate $77.4 million in principal outstanding of the 6.125{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes due 2022 on May 30, 2021; the aggregate principal amount outstanding of $28.75 million of HCAP’s 6.125{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes due 2022 were redeemed in full on July 23, 2021.
  • In the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company’s previously announced purchase of $18.1 million of portfolio of CLO assets in exchange for $1.4 million in cash and 556,852 shares of common stock issued at NAV closed in the fourth quarter of 2021.
  • During the year, the Company repurchased 75,377 shares, under its $10 million Stock Repurchase Program in open market transactions at an aggregate cost of approximately $1.8 million.
  • A 1-for-10 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock was completed effective August 26, 2021.

Management Commentary

Ted Goldthorpe, Chief Executive Officer of Portman Ridge, stated, “We are pleased with our year end results and believe we are well-positioned as we look ahead to the new year. The year-over-year increase in net assets per share is a reflection of the strength of our portfolio. Our solid performance has allowed us to increase our quarterly distribution for a second quarter in a row to $0.63 per share. Overall, we have had a successful year and our goal is to continue to improve our portfolio performance, lower our cost of capital, and reduce expenses relative to our asset base. Furthermore, the expected speed and extent in the rise of interest rates should improve our gross investment income in the coming quarters, as the majority of our portfolio has a floating rate. We also expect future portfolio investments to predominately be floating rate investments.”

Select Financial Highlights

    For the Year Ended December 31,   For the Year Ended December 31,
($ in thousands)     2021       2020  
Total investment income     80,086       42,764  
Net Expenses     38,082       25,764  
Net Investment Income     42,004       17,000  
           
Net realized and unrealized (loss) gain on investments     (12,701 )     14,418  
Tax (provision) benefit on realized and unrealized (gains) losses on investments     (1,442 )      
Realized (losses) gains on extinguishments of Debt     (1,835 )     155  
Net Increase (Decrease) In Net Assets Resulting From Operations   $ 26,026     $ 31,573  
Net Increase (Decrease) In Stockholders’ Equity Resulting from Operations per Common Share—Basic and Diluted(1)   $ 3.05     $ 6.32  
Net Investment Income Per Common Share—Basic and Diluted(1)   $ 4.92     $ 3.40  
Weighted Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding—Basic and Diluted(1)     8,536,079       4,998,759  
Distribution per share(1)   $ 0.63     $ 0.60  
           

(1)   The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021. As a result, common shares and net asset value per common share information has been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for periods prior to August 26, 2021.

       
    For the Year Ended
December 31, 2021
 
($ in thousands)    
Interest from investments in debt excluding accretion   $ 42,787    
Purchase discount accounting     16,644    
PIK Investment Income     4,345    
CLO Income     4,754    
JV Income     9,178    
Service Fees     2,378    
Total Investment Income     80,086    
Less: Purchase discount accounting     (16,644 )  
Core Investment Income     63,442    

Investment income for the years ended December 31, 2021 increased to $80.1 million, as compared to $42.8 million in 2020.

Interest income from investments in debt securities for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased to $63.8 million as compared to $31.4 million in the prior year. The increase in interest income was primarily driven by additions to the Debt Securities Portfolio through merger transactions, as well as an increase in the contractual interest rates on loans.

At December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the weighted average contractual interest rate on our interest earning debt securities was approximately 8.1{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 7.7{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}, respectively.

Investment Portfolio Activity

The composition of our investment portfolio at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 at cost and fair value was as follows:

($ in thousands)   December 31, 2021   December 31, 2020
Security Type   Cost/Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}(¹)   Cost/Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}(¹)
Senior Secured Loan   $361,556   $364,701     66     $304,539   $328,846     68  
Junior Secured Loan     82,996     70,549     13       87,977     75,807     16  
Senior Unsecured Bond     416     43     0       416     208     0  
CLO Fund Securities     51,561     31,632     6       45,728     19,583     4  
Equity Securities     26,680     22,586     4       24,594     13,945     3  
Asset Manager Affiliates(2)   17,791               17,791          
Joint Ventures     64,365     60,474     11       54,932     49,349     10  
Derivatives     31     (2,412 )         31     (1,109 )    
Total   $605,396   $547,573     100 {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}   $536,008   $486,629     100 {21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}

¹        Represents percentage of total portfolio at fair value.
²        Represents the equity investment in the Asset Manager Affiliates.

As of December 31, 2021, seven of the Company’s debt investments were on non-accrual status. As of September 30, 2021, six of the Company’s investments were on non-accrual status. Investments on non-accrual status were 0.5{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 2.8{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} of the Company’s investment portfolio at fair value and amortized cost as of December 31, 2021, respectively, compared to 0.9{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 2.5{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} as of September 30, 2021.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of December 31, 2021, we had $352.4 million (par value) of borrowings outstanding ($347.2 million net of capitalized costs) with a weighted average interest rate of 3.2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}. This balance was comprised of $79.8 million of outstanding borrowings under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, $162.5 million of 2018-2 Secured Notes due 2029, and $104.9 million of 4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes due 2026.

As of December 31, 2021, the Company had unrestricted cash of $28.9 million, restricted cash of $39.4 million, $34.4 million of available borrowing capacity under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, and $25.0 million of borrowing capacity under the 2018-2 Revolving Credit Facility. Total assets and stockholders’ equity at December 31, 2021 were $648.3 million and $280.1 million, respectively. Aggregate unfunded commitments stood at $47.9 million as of December 31, 2021.

As of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 the fair value of investments and cash were as follows:

Security Type   December 31, 2021   December 31, 2020
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 28,919     $ 6,990  
Restricted Cash     39,421       75,913  
Senior Secured Loan     364,701       328,846  
Junior Secured Loan     70,549       75,807  
Senior Unsecured Bond     43       208  
CLO Fund Securities     31,632       19,583  
Equity Securities     22,586       13,945  
Joint Ventures     60,474       49,349  
Derivatives     (2,412 )     (1,109 )
Total   $ 615,914     $ 569,532  

Interest Rate Volatility

The Company’s investment income is affected by fluctuations in various interest rates, including LIBOR and prime rates.

As of December 31, 2021, approximately 84{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} of the Company’s Debt Securities Portfolio were either floating rate with a spread to an interest rate index such as LIBOR or the prime rate. 75{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} of these floating rate loans contain LIBOR floors ranging between 0.50{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 2.00{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}.

As of December 31, 2021, Portman Ridge had approximately $352.4 million (par value) of borrowings outstanding, of which approximately 31{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} had a fixed rate and 69{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} had a floating rate. Portman Ridge expects future portfolio investments to predominately be floating rate investments.

In periods of rising or lowering interest rates, the cost of the portion of debt associated with the 4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes Due 2026 would remain the same5, given that this debt is at a fixed rate, while the interest rate on borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility would fluctuate with changes in interest rates.

Generally, an increase in the base rate index for floating rate investment assets would increase gross investment income and a decrease in the base rate index for such assets would decrease gross investment income (in either case, such increase/decrease may be limited by interest rate floors/minimums for certain investment assets).

    Impact on net investment income from
a change in interest rates at:
 
    ($ in thousands)  
    1{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}       2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}       3{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}    
Increase in interest rate     $ (1,153 )       $ 217         $ 1,671    
Decrease in interest rate     $ 256         $ 256         $ 256    

Conference Call and Webcast

We will hold a conference call on Friday March 11, 2022 at 9:00 am Eastern Time to discuss our fourth quarter and full year 2021 financial results. To access the call, stockholders, prospective stockholders and analysts should dial (866) 757-5630 approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the conference call and use the conference ID 1949597.

A replay of this conference call will be available from approximately 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time on March 11 through March 18. The dial in number for the replay is (855) 859-2056 and the conference ID is 1949597.

A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed via the Internet, on a listen-only basis on the Company’s website www.portmanridge.com in the Investor Relations section under Events and Presentations. The webcast can also be accessed by clicking the following link: Portman Ridge Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2021 Conference Call. The online archive of the webcast will be available on the Company’s website shortly after the call.

About Portman Ridge Finance Corporation

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) is a publicly traded, externally managed investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Portman Ridge’s middle market investment business originates, structures, finances and manages a portfolio of term loans, mezzanine investments and selected equity securities in middle market companies. Portman Ridge’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of BC Partners Advisors, LP.

Portman Ridge’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), earnings releases, press releases and other financial, operational and governance information are available on the Company’s website at www.portmanridge.com.

About BC Partners Advisors L.P. and BC Partners Credit

BC Partners is a leading international investment firm with over $40 billion of assets under management in private equity, private credit and real estate strategies. Established in 1986, BC Partners has played an active role in developing the European buyout market for three decades. Today, BC Partners executives operate across markets as an integrated team through the firm’s offices in North America and Europe. Since inception, BC Partners has completed 117 private equity investments in companies with a total enterprise value of €149 billion and is currently investing its eleventh private equity fund. For more information, please visit www.bcpartners.com.

BC Partners Credit was launched in February 2017 and has pursued a strategy focused on identifying attractive credit opportunities in any market environment and across sectors, leveraging the deal sourcing and infrastructure made available from BC Partners.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. The matters discussed in this press release, as well as in future oral and written statements by management of Portman Ridge Finance Corporation, that are forward-looking statements are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and include, but are not limited to, projected financial performance, expected development of the business, plans and expectations about future investments and the future liquidity of the Company. We generally identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “outlook”, “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar words. Forward-looking statements are based upon current plans, estimates and expectations that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements.

Important assumptions include our ability to originate new investments, and achieve certain margins and levels of profitability, the availability of additional capital, and the ability to maintain certain debt to asset ratios. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of a projection or forward-looking statement in this press release should not be regarded as a representation that such plans, estimates, expectations or objectives will be achieved. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such plans, estimates or expectations include, among others, (1) uncertainty of the expected financial performance of the Company; (2) expected synergies and savings associated with . merger transaction effectuated by  the Company; (3) the ability of the Company and/or its adviser to implement its business strategy; (4) evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes; (5) changes in general economic and/or industry specific conditions; (6) the impact of increased competition; (7) business prospects and the prospects of the Company’s portfolio companies; (8) contractual arrangements with third parties; (9) any future financings by the Company; (10) the ability of Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC to attract and retain highly talented professionals; (11) the Company ability to fund any unfunded commitments; (12) any future distributions by the Company; (13) changes in regional or national economic conditions, including but not limited to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and their impact on the industries in which we invest; and (14) other changes in the conditions of the industries in which we invest and other factors enumerated in our filings with the SEC. The forward-looking statements should be read in conjunction with the risks and uncertainties discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, including the Company’s most recent Form 10-K and other SEC filings. We do not undertake to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required to be reported under the rules and regulations of the SEC.

Contacts:
Portman Ridge Finance Corporation
650 Madison Avenue, 23rd floor
New York, NY 10022
info@portmanridge.com

Jason Roos
Jason.Roos@bcpartners.com
(212) 891-2880

Lena Cati
The Equity Group Inc.
lcati@equityny.com
(212) 836-9611

Serena Liegey
The Equity Group Inc.
sliegey@equityny.com
(212) 836-9630

PORTMAN RIDGE FINANCE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

    December 31,
2021
    December 31,
2020
 
($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts)            
ASSETS            
Investments at fair value:            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments (amortized cost: 2021 – $479,153; 2020 – $445,901)   $ 452,482     $ 427,277  
Non-controlled affiliated investments (amortized cost: 2021 – $74,082; 2020 – $40,726)     74,142       40,503  
Controlled affiliated investments (cost: 2021 – $52,130; 2020 – $49,350)     23,361       19,957  
Total Investments at Fair Value, excluding derivatives (cost: 2021 – $605,365; 2020 – $535,978)     549,985       487,737  
Cash and cash equivalents     28,919       6,990  
Restricted cash     39,421       75,913  
Interest receivable     5,514       2,973  
Receivable for unsettled trades     20,193       25,108  
Due from affiliates     507       357  
Other assets     3,762       1,100  
Total Assets   $ 648,301     $ 600,178  
LIABILITIES            
2018-2 Secured Notes (net of discount of: 2021 – $1,403; 2020 – $2,445)   $ 162,460     $ 249,418  
4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes Due 2026 (net of discount of: 2021 – $2,157; net of deferred financing costs of: 2021 – $951)     104,892        
Great Lakes Portman Ridge Funding LLC Revolving Credit Facility (net of deferred financing costs of: 2021 – $732; 2020 – $1,098)     79,839       48,223  
6.125{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes Due 2022 (net of deferred financing costs of: 2020 – $1,058)           75,668  
Derivative liabilities (cost: 2021 – $31; 2020 – $31)     2,412       1,109  
Payable for unsettled trades     5,397        
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities     4,819       1,789  
Accrued interest payable     2,020       1,089  
Due to affiliates     1,799       1,375  
Management and incentive fees payable     4,541       5,244  
Total Liabilities     368,179       383,915  
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES            
NET ASSETS            
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share, 20,000,000 common shares authorized; 9,867,998 issued, and 9,699,695 outstanding at December 31, 2021, and 7,609,349 issued, and 7,516,423 outstanding at December 31, 2020     97       75  
Capital in excess of par value     733,095       639,136  
Total distributable (loss) earnings     (453,069 )     (422,947 )
Total Net Assets     280,122       216,264  
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   $ 648,301     $ 600,178  
NET ASSET VALUE PER COMMON SHARE (1)   $ 28.88     $ 28.77  

(1)   The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021, the common shares and net asset value per common share have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods presented.

PORTMAN RIDGE FINANCE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

    For the Year Ended December 31,
($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts)      2021       2020       2019  
Investment income:            
Income from non-controlled/non-affiliated investments   $                3,591     $ 27,553     $ 12,205  
Income from non-controlled affiliated investments     8,947       10,065       10,324  
Income from controlled affiliated investments     5,170       4,263       3,750  
Interest from cash and time deposits           15       79  
Fees and other income     2,378       868       137  
Total investment income     80,086       42,764       26,495  
Expenses:            
Management fees     7,916       4,579       3,129  
Performance-based incentive fees     7,075       4,858        
Interest and amortization of debt issuance costs     13,644       10,284       8,261  
Compensation                 3,689  
Professional fees     3,660       2,836       3,467  
Administrative services expense     3,219       1,941       1,244  
Other general and administrative expenses     2,568       1,823       2,201  
Lease termination costs                 1,431  
Total expenses     38,082       26,321       23,421  
Management and performance-based incentive fees waived           (557 )      
Net Expenses     38,082       25,764       23,421  
Net Investment Income     42,004       17,000       3,074  
Realized And Unrealized Gains (Losses) On Investments:            
Net realized gains (losses) from investment transactions            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments     (4,397 )     7,120       (10,972 )
Non-Controlled affiliated investments     139       485       (12 )
Controlled affiliated investments                 (4,635 )
Net realized gain (loss) on investments     (4,258 )     7,605       (15,619 )
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:            
Non-controlled/non-affiliated investments     (8,047 )     21,366       9,756  
Non-Controlled affiliated investments     282       (11,723 )     (6,208 )
Controlled affiliated investments     625       (1,755 )     (2,363 )
Derivatives     (1,303 )     (1,075 )     (64 )
Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments     (8,443 )     6,813       1,121  
Tax (provision) benefit on realized and unrealized (gains) losses on investments     (1,442 )            
Net realized and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, net of taxes     (14,143 )     14,418       (14,498 )
Realized gains (losses) on extinguishments of Debt     (1,835 )     155       (1,076 )
Net Increase (Decrease) In Net Assets Resulting From Operations   $ 26,026     $ 31,573     $ (12,500 )
Net Increase (Decrease) In Stockholders’ Equity Resulting from Operations per Common Share (1):            
Basic:   $                   3.05     $ 6.32     $ (3.32 )
Diluted:   $ 3.05     $ 6.32     $ (3.32 )
Net Investment Income Per Common Share (1):            
Basic:   $ 4.92     $ 3.40     $ 0.82  
Diluted:   $ 4.92     $ 3.40     $ 0.82  
Weighted Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding—Basic and Diluted (1)     8,536,079       4,998,759       3,764,165  

(1)   The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021, the common shares and net asset value per common share have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods presented.

_______________________________________

1 The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021. As a result, the share and per share amounts have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods prior to August 26, 2021.
2 Core investment income represents reported total investment income as determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or U.S. GAAP, less the impact of purchase price discount accounting in connection with the Garrison Capital Inc. (“GARS”) and Harvest Capital Credit Corporation (“HCAP”) mergers. Portman Ridge believes presenting core investment income and the related per share amount is useful and appropriate supplemental disclosure for analyzing its financial performance due to the unique circumstance giving rise to the purchase accounting adjustment. However, core investment income is a non-U.S. GAAP measure and should not be considered as a replacement for total investment income and other earnings measures presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Instead, core investment income should be reviewed only in connection with such U.S. GAAP measures in analyzing Portman Ridge’s financial performance.
3 Core NII, or core net investment income, represents reported net investment income in accordance with U.S. GAAP, less the impact of purchase price discount accounting in connection with the GARS and HCAP mergers.  Portman Ridge believes presenting Core NII and the related per share amount is useful and appropriate supplemental disclosure for analyzing its financial performance due to the unique circumstance giving rise to the purchase accounting adjustment. However, Core NII is a non-U.S. GAAP measure and should not be considered as a replacement for net investment income and other earnings measures presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP.  Instead, Core NII should be reviewed only in connection with such U.S. GAAP measures in analyzing Portman Ridge’s financial performance.
4 Net leverage is calculated as the ratio between (A) debt, excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, less available cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and (B) NAV. Portman Ridge believes presenting a net leverage ratio is useful and appropriate supplemental disclosure because it reflects the Company’s financial condition net of $68.3 million of cash and cash equivalents. However, the net leverage ratio is a non-U.S. GAAP measure and should not be considered as a replacement for the regulatory asset coverage ratio and other similar information presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Instead, the net leverage ratio should be reviewed only in connection with such U.S. GAAP measures in analyzing Portman Ridge’s financial condition.
5 See comment above about describing the terms and amount of the 4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes issuance.

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Reports Third Quarter 2021 Earnings Results; Declares Quarterly Distribution of $0.62 Per Share

NEW YORK, Nov. 04, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) (the “Company” or “Portman Ridge”) announced today its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2021 and declared a quarterly stockholder distribution of $0.62 per share for the fourth quarter of 2021, payable on November 30, 2021 to stockholders of record at the close of business on November 15, 2021. This is an increase of $0.02 per share from $0.60 per share last quarter.

Third Quarter 2021 Highlights

  • Completed a 1-for-10 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock effective August 26, 2021.

  • Net investment income for the quarter was $1.50 per share, or $13.7 million.

  • Net asset value (“NAV”) per share increased to $29.71 from $29.28(2) quarter-to-quarter, reflecting broad-based improvements in the debt portfolio and joint ventures.

  • As of September 30, 2021, the fair value of the Company’s investments excluding derivatives totaled $562 million, of which the Company’s debt securities portfolio totaled $455 million and was comprised of investments in 145 portfolio companies.

  • During the quarter, the Company acquired approximately $62.0million par value of investment portfolio assets. Also, during the quarter, the Company received approximately $37.1 million in sale and repayment proceeds, which includes a $0.5 million increase relative to the carrying value of those assets sold.

  • Net leverage(1) was 1.1x as of September 30, 2021, compared to 0.9x as of June 30, 2021, driven primarily by the timing of investments in the pipeline. During the quarter, the Company redeemed in full the aggregate amount outstanding of $28.75 million of the HCAP 6.125{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes due 2022.

  • Under its share buyback program, the Company repurchased approximately $1.4 million of its shares during the quarter.

  • The quarterly distribution for the third quarter was $0.60 per share and was paid on August 31, 2021.

  • Subsequent to quarter-end, on October 22, 2021, the Company entered into a purchase and sale agreement to purchase $18.1 million of portfolio assets from two wholly-owned subsidiaries of JMP Group LLC in exchange for $1.4 million in cash and 556,852 shares of its common stock issued at NAV. The closing of the transaction occurred in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Management Commentary

Ted Goldthorpe, Chief Executive Officer of Portman Ridge commented, “Our third quarter results reflect continued strong earnings, distribution coverage, and robust origination. Net assets per share increased to $29.71 and represents the sixth straight quarter-to-quarter increase. We also continued to maintain expenses at a stable level relative to our asset base, which has grown significantly over the past year, and we expect further leveraging of operating expenses over time. Our solid performance has allowed us to increase our quarterly distribution this by $0.02 to $0.62 per share. Overall, our objective is to deliver consistently strong performance each quarter for shareholders, and we believe we are well positioned to continue executing on this goal.”

Selected Financial Highlights (unaudited)

Three Months
Ended

Three Months
Ended

(in $ millions, except per share data)

September 30,
2021

June 30,
2021

Investment Income:

Interest from investments in debt securities

$

18.7

$

18.0

Investment income on CLO Fund Securities

0.7

0.8

Investment income – Joint Ventures

2.4

2.5

Capital structuring service fees

1.0

0.2

Total investment income

22.9

21.5

Net expenses

9.2

9.8

Net Investment Income

$

13.7

$

11.7

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)

(4.6

)

(0.9

)

Realized losses on debt extinguishment

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

$

9.1

$

10.8

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations per share (basic and diluted)(2)

$

1.00

$

1.40

Net investment income per share (basic and diluted)(2)

$

1.50

$

1.51

Weighted average shares outstanding (in millions)(2)

9.1

7.7

Distribution per share

$

0.60

$

0.60

Total investment income for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021 was $22.9 million and $21.5 million, respectively. Investment income increased quarter-to-quarter primarily due to higher interest income on debt securities and higher capital structuring fees.

Total expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021 were $9.2 million and $9.8 million, respectively. The decrease quarter-to-quarter was driven primarily by lower incentive fees, lower professional fees, and lower general and administrative expenses. Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs decreased slightly quarter-to-quarter, from $3.5 million to $3.4 million due to the impact of a lower weighted average cost of debt.

Net investment income for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021 was $13.7 million or $1.50 per share, and $11.7 million or $1.51(2) per share, respectively.

Net realized and unrealized depreciation on investments for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $(4.6) million, as compared to net realized and unrealized appreciation of $(0.9) million for the three months ended June 30, 2021.

Portfolio

The fair value of our portfolio was $560 million ($562 million excluding derivatives) as of September 30, 2021. The composition of our investment portfolio at September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020 at cost and fair value was as follows:

September 30, 2021

(Unaudited)

December 31, 2020

Security Type

Cost/Amortized
Cost

Fair Value

{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}¹

Cost/Amortized
Cost

Fair Value

{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}¹

Senior Secured Loan

367,212,162

380,960,592

68

304,539,184

328,845,612

68

Junior Secured Loan

82,973,411

74,076,080

13

87,977,057

75,807,477

16

Senior Unsecured Bond

416,171

43,204

0

416,170

207,766

0

CLO Fund Securities

33,964,238

17,173,634

3

45,727,813

19,582,555

4

Equity Securities

29,041,687

22,298,759

4

24,593,639

13,944,876

3

Asset Manager Affiliates2

17,791,230

17,791,230

Joint Ventures

70,558,377

67,629,114

12

54,932,458

49,349,163

10

Derivatives

30,609

(1,982,091

)

30,609

(1,108,618

)

Total

$

601,987,885

$

560,199,292

100

{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}

$

536,008,160

$

486,628,831

100

{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}

¹ Represents percentage of total portfolio at fair value.
² Represents the equity investment in the Asset Manager Affiliates.

As of September 30, 2021, six of the Company’s debt investments were on non-accrual status. As of June 30, 2021, eight of the Company’s investments were on non-accrual status. Investments on non-accrual status were 0.9{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 2.5{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} of the Company’s investment portfolio at fair value and amortized cost as of September 30, 2021, respectively, compared to 1.5{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} and 3.3{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} as of June 30, 2021.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of September 30, 2021, we had $340.9 million (par value) of borrowings outstanding ($335.4 million net of capitalized costs) with a combined weighted average interest rate of 3.2{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996}. This balance was comprised of $69.1 million of outstanding borrowings under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, $163.9 million of 2018-2 Secured Notes due 2029, and $108.0 million of 4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes due 2026.

As of September 30, 2021, the Company had unrestricted cash of $28.5 million, restricted cash of $21.1 million, $45.9 million of available borrowing capacity under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, and $25.0 million of borrowing capacity under the 2018-2 Revolving Credit Facility. Total assets and stockholders’ equity at September 30, 2021 were $627 million and $271 million, respectively. Aggregate unfunded commitments stood at $48.7 million as of September 30, 2021.
Conference Call and Webcast

We will hold a conference call on Friday November 5, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss our third quarter 2021 financial results. Stockholders, prospective stockholders and analysts are welcome to listen to the call or attend the webcast.

To access the call please dial (866) 757-5630 approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the conference call and reference the conference ID 7445538. A replay of the conference call will be available from November 5, 2021 until November 12, 2021. The dial in number for the replay is (855) 859-2056 and the conference ID is 7445538.

A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed via the Internet, on a listen-only basis on our Company’s website www.portmanridge.com in the Investor Relations section under Events and Presentations. The webcast can also be accessed by clicking the following link: Portman Ridge Third Quarter 2021 Conference Call. The online archive of the webcast will be available on the Company’s website shortly after the call.

About Portman Ridge Finance Corporation

Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) is a publicly traded, externally managed investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Portman Ridge’s middle market investment business originates, structures, finances and manages a portfolio of term loans, mezzanine investments and selected equity securities in middle market companies. Portman Ridge’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of BC Partners Advisors, LP.

Portman Ridge’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), earnings releases, press releases and other financial, operational and governance information are available on the Company’s website at www.portmanridge.com.

About BC Partners Advisors L.P. and BC Partners Credit

BC Partners is a leading international investment firm with over $40 billion of assets under management in private equity, private credit and real estate strategies. Established in 1986, BC Partners has played an active role in developing the European buyout market for three decades. Today, BC Partners executives operate across markets as an integrated team through the firm’s offices in North America and Europe. Since inception, BC Partners has completed 117 private equity investments in companies with a total enterprise value of €149 billion and is currently investing its eleventh private equity fund. For more information, please visit www.bcpartners.com.

BC Partners Credit was launched in February 2017 and has pursued a strategy focused on identifying attractive credit opportunities in any market environment and across sectors, leveraging the deal sourcing and infrastructure made available from BC Partners.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. The matters discussed in this press release, as well as in future oral and written statements by management of Portman Ridge Finance Corporation, that are forward-looking statements are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and include, but are not limited to, projected financial performance, expected development of the business, plans and expectations about future investments and the future liquidity of the Company. We generally identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “outlook”, “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar words. Forward-looking statements are based upon current plans, estimates and expectations that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements.

Important assumptions include our ability to originate new investments, and achieve certain margins and levels of profitability, the availability of additional capital, and the ability to maintain certain debt to asset ratios. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of a projection or forward-looking statement in this press release should not be regarded as a representation that such plans, estimates, expectations or objectives will be achieved. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such plans, estimates or expectations include, among others, (1) uncertainty of the expected financial performance of the Company; (2) expected synergies and savings associated with the transaction in which Garrison Capital Inc. merged with and into the Company; (3) the ability of the Company and/or BC Partners to implement its business strategy; (4) evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes; (5) changes in general economic and/or industry specific conditions; (6) the impact of increased competition; (7) business prospects and the prospects of the Company’s portfolio companies; (8) contractual arrangements with third parties; (9) any future financings by the Company; (10) the ability of Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC to attract and retain highly talented professionals; (11) the Company ability to fund any unfunded commitments; (12) any future distributions by the Company; (13) changes in regional or national economic conditions, including but not limited to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and their impact on the industries in which we invest; (14) other changes in the conditions of the industries in which we invest and other factors enumerated in our filings with the SEC; and (15) expected synergies and savings associated with the transaction in which HCAP merged with and into the Company. The forward-looking statements should be read in conjunction with the risks and uncertainties discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, including the Company’s most recent Form 10-K and other SEC filings. We do not undertake to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required to be reported under the rules and regulations of the SEC.

(1) Net leverage is calculated as the ratio between (A) debt, excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, less available cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and (B) NAV.
(2) The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021, share and per share amounts have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods presented.

Contacts:
Portman Ridge Finance Corporation
650 Madison Avenue, 23rd floor
New York, NY 10022
info@portmanridge.com

Jason Roos
Jason.Roos@bcpartners.com
(212) 891-2880

Jeehae Linford
The Equity Group Inc.
jlinford@equityny.com
(212) 836-9615

PORTMAN RIDGE FINANCE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

September 30,
2021

December 31,
2020

(Unaudited)

ASSETS

Investments at fair value:

Debt securities (amortized cost: 2021 – $450,601,744; 2020 – $392,932,411)

$

455,079,876

$

404,860,855

CLO Fund Securities managed by non-affiliates (amortized cost: 2021 – $33,964,238; 2020 – $45,727,813)

17,173,634

19,582,555

Equity securities (cost: 2021 – $29,041,687; 2020 – $24,593,639)

22,298,759

13,944,876

Asset Manager Affiliates (cost: 2021 – $17,791,230; 2020 – $17,791,230)

Joint Ventures (cost: 2021 – $70,558,377; 2020 – $54,932,458)

67,629,114

49,349,163

Total Investments at Fair Value, excluding derivatives (cost: 2021 – $601,957,277; 2020 – $535,977,551)

562,181,383

487,737,449

Cash and cash equivalents

28,539,989

6,990,008

Restricted cash

21,050,857

75,913,411

Interest receivable

4,228,748

2,972,546

Receivable for unsettled trades

7,070,394

25,107,598

Due from affiliates

464,342

357,168

Other assets

3,568,698

1,100,241

Total Assets

$

627,104,411

$

600,178,421

LIABILITIES

6.125{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes Due 2022 (net of offering costs of: 2020 – $1,058,351)

$

$

75,667,624

2018-2 Secured Notes (net of discount of: 2021 – $1,446,983; 2020 – $2,444,512)

162,415,715

$

249,418,186

4.875{21df340e03e388cc75c411746d1a214f72c176b221768b7ada42b4d751988996} Notes Due 2026 (net of discount of: 2021 – $2,266,656; 2020 – $0, net of offering costs of: 2021 – $948,071; 2020 – $0)

104,785,273

Great Lakes Portman Ridge Funding LLC Revolving Credit Facility (net of offering costs of: 2021 – $823,375; 2020 – $1,097,815)

68,247,523

48,223,083

Derivative liabilities (cost: 2021 – $30,609; 2020 – $30,609)

1,982,091

1,108,618

Payable for unsettled trades

4,903,384

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities

3,961,666

1,788,908

Accrued interest payable

3,345,558

1,089,531

Due to affiliates

760,112

1,374,739

Management and incentive fees payable

5,654,814

5,243,869

Total Liabilities

356,056,136

383,914,558

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 8)

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share, 20,000,000 common shares authorized; 9,291,578 issued, and 9,123,275 outstanding at September 30, 2021, and 7,609,349 issued, and 7,516,423 outstanding at December 31,
2020

91,233

75,164

Capital in excess of par value

680,451,474

639,136,026

Total distributable (loss) earnings

(409,494,432

)

(422,947,327

)

Total Stockholders’ Equity

271,048,275

216,263,863

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

$

627,104,411

$

600,178,421

NET ASSET VALUE PER COMMON SHARE (1)

$

29.71

$

28.77

(1) The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021, the common shares and net asset value per common share have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods presented.

PORTMAN RIDGE FINANCE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited)

For the Three Months Ended
September 30,

For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,

2021

2020

2021

2020

Investment income:

Interest from investments in debt securities

$

17,391,146

$

4,517,268

$

48,736,532

$

13,910,567

Payment-in-kind investment income

1,296,496

434,446

3,172,910

1,125,343

Interest from cash and time deposits

15,279

Investment income on CLO Fund Securities managed by affiliates

587,239

2,493,600

Investment income on CLO Fund Securities managed by non-affiliates

748,449

42,341

2,211,092

247,302

Investment income – Joint Ventures

2,442,703

2,182,466

7,012,167

4,760,485

Capital structuring service fees

1,032,346

23,602

1,628,155

302,887

Total investment income

22,911,140

7,787,362

62,760,856

22,855,463

Expenses:

Management fees

2,064,733

1,043,645

5,771,636

3,063,719

Performance-based incentive fees

1,939,170

571,846

6,332,646

1,128,726

Interest and amortization of debt issuance costs

3,408,445

2,239,911

10,315,528

6,984,852

Professional fees

490,284

439,503

2,680,458

1,810,450

Insurance

198,011

177,154

574,973

478,058

Administrative services expense

760,112

470,435

2,091,769

1,361,700

Other general and administrative expenses

332,534

147,818

1,352,737

522,091

Total expenses

9,193,289

5,090,312

29,119,747

15,349,596

Management and performance-based incentive fees waived

(556,880

)

Net Expenses

9,193,289

5,090,312

29,119,747

14,792,716

Net Investment Income

13,717,851

2,697,050

33,641,109

8,062,747

Realized And Unrealized Gains (Losses) On Investments:

Net realized (losses) gains from investment transactions

(3,931,280

)

(1,890,090

)

(11,372,803

)

(3,819,851

)

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

Debt securities

(4,447,878

)

4,553,027

(7,448,405

)

(3,945,277

)

Equity securities

1,215,013

337,258

3,905,834

411,276

CLO Fund Securities managed by affiliates

1,573,272

(12,168,189

)

CLO Fund Securities managed by non-affiliates

706,935

363,430

9,354,655

(491,863

)

Joint Venture Investments

2,063,261

1,146,355

2,654,032

(4,654,363

)

Derivatives

(179,416

)

(461,629

)

(873,473

)

(999,612

)

Total net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

(642,085

)

7,511,713

7,592,643

(21,848,028

)

Net realized and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments

(4,573,365

)

5,621,623

(3,780,160

)

(25,667,879

)

Realized (losses) gains on extinguishments of Debt

(1,834,963

)

154,571

Net Increase (Decrease) In Stockholders’ Equity Resulting From Operations

$

9,144,486

$

8,318,673

$

28,025,986

$

(17,450,561

)

Net Increase (Decrease) In Stockholders’ Equity Resulting from Operations per Common Share (1):

Basic:

$

1.00

$

1.87

$

3.41

$

(3.91

)

Diluted:

$

1.00

$

1.87

$

3.41

$

(3.91

)

Net Investment Income Per Common Share (1):

Basic:

$

1.50

$

0.61

$

4.10

$

1.81

Diluted:

$

1.50

$

0.61

$

4.10

$

1.81

Weighted Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding—Basic (1)

9,131,456

4,441,778

8,213,661

4,461,650

Weighted Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding—Diluted (1)

9,131,456

4,441,778

8,213,661

4,461,650

(1) The Company completed a Reverse Stock Split of 10 to 1 effective August 26, 2021, the weighted average shares outstanding and per share values have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the split for all periods presented.