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Summary of BofA December Global Fund Manager Survey Industry Overview - The survey reflects the sentiment of global fund managers regarding macroeconomic conditions, asset allocation, and investment strategies as of December 2025. Key Points Macro & Economic Outlook - **Macro Optimism**: The macro optimism is at its highest since August 2021, with 57% of respondents predicting a soft landing for the economy, 37% expecting no landing, and only 3% anticipating a hard landing [2][19] - **Profit Expectations**: Net profit expectations rose to 29%, the highest since August 2021, indicating a positive outlook on global profits [26] - **Liquidity Conditions**: Rated as the third best in the past 17 years, with 61% of investors rating liquidity conditions as positive, the highest since September 2021 [41][43] Asset Allocation Trends - **Cash Levels**: Cash levels dropped to a record low of 3.3%, down from 3.7%, indicating a strong shift towards risk assets [1][103] - **Equity and Commodity Allocation**: Allocation to equities rose to a net 42% overweight (OW), the highest since December 2024, while commodities reached a net 18% OW, the highest since September 2022 [16][55] - **Sector Rotation**: Significant rotation into US stocks, technology, and materials, while reducing exposure to bonds, healthcare, and staples [4][60] Investment Risks and Concerns - **AI Bubble**: Identified as the biggest tail risk by 38% of investors, with concerns about overinvestment in AI-related capital expenditures [31][29] - **Credit Event Sources**: 40% of investors believe private equity/private credit is the most likely source of a credit event, followed by AI hyperscaler capex at 29% [34][36] Crowded Trades - **Most Crowded Trades**: "Long Magnificent 7" remains the most crowded trade at 54%, followed by "Long Gold" at 29% [37][39] Future Expectations - **Bond Yield Expectations**: 38% of investors expect long-term interest rates to rise, the highest since April 2022 [45] - **Yield Curve Steepening**: 75% of investors anticipate a steepening yield curve in the next 12 months [48] Regional and Sector Allocations - **US Equities**: Net 6% overweight in US equities, the highest since February 2025 [145] - **Underweight Sectors**: Significant underweight positions in energy (26% UW) and consumer staples (20% UW) [56][172] Conclusion - The December survey indicates a strong bullish sentiment among fund managers, with significant shifts towards equities and commodities, while concerns about potential risks, particularly related to AI and credit events, remain prevalent. The overall outlook suggests a cautious optimism as investors navigate the current economic landscape.

Summary of Sallie Mae Investor Forum 2025 Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Sallie Mae - **Industry**: Private Education Loans Key Points and Arguments Strategic Updates - Sallie Mae is evolving its strategy to enhance its position in the private education loan market, focusing on customer acquisition and engagement, underwriting capabilities, and funding models [4][5][6] - The company successfully acquired nearly 4 million new members in 2025, including two-thirds of all college-bound freshmen, marking a 30% increase from three years ago [5] - The underwriting model has improved, with a five-point increase in average FICO scores at approval and a four-percentage-point increase in cosign rates [10] Financial Performance - In 2024, Sallie Mae grew originations and market share by 10% and 12% respectively compared to 2023 [9] - The company returned nearly $800 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases in 2023 and 2024 [10] - The funding model has maintained net interest margins in the low to mid-5% range, demonstrating resilience across varying rate environments [7] PLUS Program Changes - Anticipated changes to the PLUS program could lead to an additional $4.5-$5 billion in annual private education loan originations once fully implemented [13] - The company is preparing to target new cohorts and improve marketing strategies to capitalize on this opportunity [14] Customer Base and Product Opportunities - Despite acquiring a large customer base, less than 10% of these relationships resulted in private student loans, indicating significant growth potential [15] - The company aims to introduce innovative funding solutions to tap into the remaining high-quality borrowers who did not apply for loans [15] Private Credit Market Growth - The private credit market has grown from $300 billion in 2009 to $2.3 trillion today, with significant opportunities for expansion in the higher education sector [17] - Sallie Mae's partnership with KKR is expected to enhance its ability to originate high-quality loans and diversify revenue streams [18][21] Strategic Partnership Model - The new partnership model is designed to optimize capital efficiency and reduce reliance on traditional loan sales, with expectations of modest EPS decline in the first year but growth returning in subsequent years [22][31] - The partnership approach is anticipated to provide greater flexibility and risk diversification compared to traditional funding methods [21][19] Future Outlook - The company projects a gradual shift in loan sales from traditional methods to strategic partnerships, aiming for a more predictable revenue stream [26][28] - Over the next five years, Sallie Mae expects to generate approximately $2.5 billion to return to shareholders [29] - The strategic evolution aims to build a resilient, growth-focused enterprise that delivers sustainable performance and superior returns [31] Additional Important Content - The company emphasizes the importance of maintaining a robust bank environment alongside private credit partnerships to mitigate risks [34][46] - The management team is committed to disciplined capital allocation and is exploring innovative capital market strategies to optimize capital levels [36][47] - The potential for originating loans outside the bank's typical risk appetite is being considered, which could provide additional upside beyond current projections [59][60]

Core Viewpoint - Ares Capital Corporation presents an attractive investment opportunity with a 9.3% dividend yield, but investors should be aware of potential risks associated with lending to mid-sized companies [1][4][10]. Company Overview - Ares Capital Corporation operates as the largest business development company (BDC) in the United States, primarily lending to middle-market businesses at high interest rates [4]. - The company is required to distribute 90% of its taxable income to investors, making its dividend yield appealing for passive income seekers [4]. Financial Performance - The current stock price of Ares Capital is $20.62, which is 14% below its 52-week high [2][3]. - The market capitalization stands at $15 billion, with a gross margin of 76.26% [3][4]. - As of September 30, only 3.6% of its investments are performing below expectations, a slight increase from 2.9% at the end of December [9]. Interest Rate Sensitivity - Ares Capital's earnings are closely tied to interest rates, with many loans having floating rates. A decline in interest rates could negatively impact interest income and net investment income [5]. - The company is more attractive in stable or rising interest rate environments due to the potential for earnings erosion in a rate-cut cycle [5]. Credit Quality and Risks - The credit quality of underlying assets is a key risk for investors, as Ares Capital lends to companies that often lack access to traditional financing, making them riskier borrowers [6]. - Recent high-profile defaults, such as those of First Brands and Tricolor, have raised concerns about the stability of certain credit markets [7][8]. - Ares Capital has no exposure to these troubled companies and employs thorough due diligence to mitigate risks associated with receivables financing [8]. Management and Strategy - The management team has extensive experience in lending to middle-market companies, with a diversified portfolio of over 587 companies across various sectors [9]. - Approximately 61% of Ares Capital's loans are first lien, providing priority in repayment if borrowers face difficulties [9]. - The CEO has indicated that the company is positioned to maintain its current dividend payout for the foreseeable future, as core earnings exceed the dividend payment [11].

Core Viewpoint - Nvidia's stock experienced significant volatility following its earnings report, initially rising over 5% before closing 3% lower, indicating market uncertainty despite strong financial performance [1][2][3]. Company Performance - Nvidia reported a strong quarter with revenues of $57 billion and an optimistic outlook of $65 billion, which initially excited investors [14]. - The average price target for Nvidia increased from $234 to $250 post-earnings, reflecting continued optimism among analysts [4][3]. Market Reaction - The stock's movement was influenced by broader concerns regarding AI valuations and the tech sector, rather than issues specific to Nvidia [5][6]. - The tech sector, including Nvidia, faced selling pressure, with some analysts suggesting that the bottom has not yet been reached [16][17]. Industry Context - The volatility in Nvidia's stock is part of a larger trend affecting the tech sector, with significant declines observed in related companies like SoftBank, which sold its entire stake in Nvidia [7][8]. - Concerns about circular financing and AI valuations are prevalent, with investors uncertain about how to evaluate these unprecedented market conditions [9][10]. Economic Factors - The market is currently experiencing cautious optimism, with discussions around potential interest rate cuts influencing investor sentiment [11][25]. - Despite lower yields, the market is not fully pricing in a rate cut for December, indicating ongoing uncertainty [25].

story. I want to bring into this conversation uh Bill Egan. He is the chief investment officer of the Absolute Return Fixed Income Group at JP Morgan Asset Management.Uh we've had a wild ride in the equity markets. Uh it's been quite a thing to to see. >> These guys are stuck.>> Yeah. Given the inflation picture and the unemployment picture, they're smacking against each other in the wrong directions. >> Yeah.What's interesting, Andrew, is um you know, 10 and 30-year yields are higher now than when Fed fund ...

Labor Market & Economy - The report suggests the U S economy is "not too bad" but inflationary worries remain and the job market feels like it is softening [7] - Unemployment rate rose due to a large jump in the number of people looking for work, increasing the labor force significantly [3] - Weekly jobless claims are at 220,000, similar to levels at the beginning of October [6] - Difficulties adjusting for college graduates who haven't found work may be causing measurement problems in the labor force [4][5] Federal Reserve (The Fed) - The Fed's next move is uncertain, with arguments for both holding and cutting rates based on job creation, inflation, and unemployment rate [2] - Fed Governor Lisa Cook suggests monitoring how unexpected losses in private credit may spread to the broader U S financial system due to increased complexity and interconnections with leverage firms [7] - The Fed may be raising the issue of private credit risks to draw attention, as they lack supervisory ability in this area [14] Private Credit & Financial System Risks - Private credit has grown tremendously, particularly in areas where regulators lack oversight [9] - Concerns exist about interconnections among private lenders and potential contagion if borrowers default [9][11] - Key indicators to watch for stress in the financial system include default rates and the rate of fallen angels [11] - Private lending is primarily to private companies, making it difficult to get a complete picture of the credit world, but subprime loan interest rates may offer insights [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Vinci Compass generated BRL 77.1 million in earnings for Q3 2025, translating to BRL 1.22 per share, with a FRE margin of 32.3% and adjusted distributable earnings of BRL 73.1 million, or BRL 1.16 per share, marking a 28% increase year-over-year on a nominal basis [3][25] - Total assets under management (AUM) reached BRL 316 billion, a 4% increase quarter-over-quarter, with capital formation and appreciation totaling BRL 19 billion [22][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The credit segment raised over BRL 1 billion in the quarter, with 30% coming from international investors, indicating strong global interest [11] - The global IP&S segment saw AUM exceed BRL 241 billion, supported by approximately BRL 8 billion of inflows, with TPD alternative funds being a key growth driver [17][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brazil is expected to benefit from a potential political shift reinforcing fiscal responsibility and a likely Selic-cutting cycle, creating a favorable environment for asset re-rating [10] - The trend of global investors seeking exposure beyond the U.S. is expected to support fundraising efforts, offering attractive risk-adjusted opportunities [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The acquisition of Verde is a significant milestone in strategic expansion, enhancing Vinci Compass's position as a leading alternative investment platform in Latin America [5][6] - The company aims to achieve a 38% FRE margin target by 2028, supported by cost reduction initiatives and substantial fundraising across all segments [9][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the macro environment, citing broad-based asset appreciation and easing rate bias across emerging economies as constructive for the platform [10] - The company is well-positioned to capture generational shifts in the global economy and markets, compounding value for clients and shareholders [13][22] Other Important Information - The company is adopting AI across its operations, with approximately 80% of the team using AI to enhance productivity and risk management [21] - The first Brazilian pension plan commitment to the SPS4 fund is expected to unlock further commitments from similar institutional investors [26][27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Regarding the first Brazilian pension plan commitment to SPS4, how fast do you think this new demand could come? - Management expects further commitments for this strategy but cannot predict the exact size of it, noting the low penetration of this type of investment among local and international institutions [26][27] Question: Should the improved FRE margin be considered the new base for the next quarter? - Management indicated that while there is some seasonality in expenses, they expect margins to remain above 30% going forward, with the Verde acquisition expected to positively impact margins in 2026 [29][30] Question: How much of the strong global IP&S inflows this quarter was related to TPD alternatives? - TPD alternatives had a significant positive impact, with a $2 billion contribution from a regional player into a US-based closed-end fund, and management remains optimistic about future inflows [31][32]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Trinity Capital reported $75.6 million in total investment income, a 22% year-over-year increase, and $37 million in net investment income, representing a 29% increase compared to Q3 of last year [2][11] - The net asset value (NAV) grew 8% quarter-over-quarter to a record $998 million, with a year-over-year increase of 32% [2][12] - The return on equity was 15.3%, among the highest in the Business Development Company (BDC) space, with a weighted average effective portfolio yield of 15% [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company funded $471 million in Q3, bringing year-to-date investments to $1.1 billion, nearly matching all of 2024's total [3] - The investment pipeline remains robust, with $773 million of new commitments in Q3 and $1.2 billion in total unfunded commitments as of quarter-end [3][4] - Non-accruals remained steady at 1% of the total debt portfolio, with four companies on non-accrual status [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Portfolio companies collectively raised $2.3 billion in equity capital during Q3, indicating strong borrower performance and access to capital [15] - The largest industry concentration in the portfolio is finance and insurance, accounting for 15% of the portfolio at cost, diversified across 20 borrowers [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Trinity Capital is focused on building a scalable platform that can drive earnings and NAV growth, with a commitment to disciplined underwriting and a diversified portfolio across five business verticals [8][10] - The company is strategically raising equity, debt, and off-balance sheet vehicles to fuel growth, including a new joint venture with a large asset manager [6][10] - The management structure aligns interests with shareholders, promoting a commitment to delivering consistent dividends and long-term value [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the opportunities in the private credit market, highlighting a robust investment pipeline and the potential for incremental upside from warrant positions in portfolio companies [3][10] - The impact of rate cuts on the business has been limited, with most loans including interest rate floors, which helps maintain income levels [5][10] - The company remains focused on maintaining strong credit quality and disciplined underwriting practices [4][15] Other Important Information - The company raised $83 million of equity through its ATM program at a 19% average premium to NAV during Q3 [12] - The net leverage ratio increased slightly to 1.18 times at quarter-end, with no debt maturities until August 2026 [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Current capacity in off-balance sheet vehicles - Management indicated that there is currently about $200 million of capacity in the new vehicle, with other vehicles being approximately 75% funded [20][24] Question: Capacity of the team for origination and management - Management stated that they have been hiring in advance of growth needs and are currently well-positioned to manage existing verticals without immediate need for additional resources [28][29] Question: Competition in various verticals and deal spreads - Management noted that they do not see the same rate compression as other markets, with their niche verticals experiencing less competition [30][31] Question: Increase in compensation expenses - Management explained that the increase in compensation expenses is due to team growth and the establishment of a new office in the U.K. [37] Question: Portfolio health and watch credits - Management reported a significant decrease in watch credits, indicating improved portfolio health, with overall performance remaining strong [38][63] Question: Nomad Health investment write-off - Management clarified that a significant portion of the Nomad Health investment was converted to equity, and while the remaining debt is on non-accrual, they remain optimistic about the company's future [42][45] Question: Exposure to consumer receivables - Management confirmed that the portfolio has very low exposure to consumer receivables, with a focus on B2B financing [49] Question: Future leverage ratio plans - Management indicated plans to lower the leverage ratio over time, focusing on creating liquidity and generating new income through managed funds [66]

Fund Overview - WisdomTree, a global asset manager with over $130 billion AUM, has adopted Chainlink to provide institutional-grade NAV data onchain for its CRDT tokenized fund on Ethereum [1] - The CRDT fund offers exposure to a diversified portfolio of liquid private credit and alternative income instruments, tracking the Gapstow Liquid Alternative Credit Index (GLACI) [1] Technology and Transparency - By using Chainlink, WisdomTree enables subscriptions and redemptions through its Prime and Connect platforms, ensuring institutional-grade transparency, auditability, and interoperability [2] - Verified NAV data on Ethereum via Chainlink allows DeFi protocols and institutional platforms to reference CRDT's valuation in smart contracts [3] Potential Use Cases - The availability of CRDT's valuation data unlocks new use cases across lending, yield aggregation, and automated portfolio management [3]