Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP net income attributable to common stockholders of $5.3 million or $0.04 per share for the first quarter [5] - Distributable earnings were $11.4 million or $0.09 per share, while adjusted distributable earnings were $20.1 million or $0.16 per share [5][19] - Current liquidity stands at $310 million, including $145 million in unrestricted cash [5][22] - GAAP net book value decreased to $7.92 per share from $8.08 in the previous quarter [19] - Undepreciated book value decreased to $8.75 per share from $8.89 [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company received $133 million in repayments across nine loans, including five full payoffs [14] - New loan commitments totaled $182 million across five new loan originations during the quarter [14] - The loan portfolio consists of 74 investments with an average loan balance of $33 million [14] - Watch list loan exposure stands at $396 million, a reduction of $15 million quarter over quarter [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial real estate (CRE) market is experiencing wider credit spreads, but lenders have not withdrawn from the market [8] - The Manhattan leasing market is recovering, with an uptick in leasing inquiries for Long Island City properties [12] - The mortgage REIT sector has seen a significant decline in valuation, with the company's stock trading at a 45% discount to its undepreciated book value [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain its dividend while regrowing earnings and improving its balance sheet [14] - The focus is on increasing loan inquiries and evaluating new loans daily, despite challenges in refinancing [9][10] - The company is optimistic about the market dynamics and is seeing more lenders encouraging borrowers to refinance [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted ongoing market volatility due to tariff discussions and credit market conditions [7] - There is a concern about potential recessionary impacts, but lower interest rates could benefit borrowers seeking refinancing [31] - The company expects to maintain its dividend and aims to grow its portfolio to $3.5 billion to support this goal [46] Other Important Information - The company is in the final stages of exiting its Phoenix multifamily property and anticipates selecting a buyer soon [12] - The San Jose hotel loan remains in default, with progress being made toward foreclosure [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the remaining buyback authorization? - The share repurchase program was reapproved at $50 million for the upcoming year [26] Question: What is the impact of lower rates on the portfolio and borrowers? - Lower rates are expected to help borrowers refinance, but spreads may widen, which could affect credit performance [31][32] Question: Is the company still targeting $1 billion in originations this year? - The company needs to increase its portfolio to $3.5 billion to sustain and grow its dividend, with current challenges in actionable deals [42][46] Question: Can you provide an update on the San Jose hotel property? - The asset is unlevered, and the company is awaiting resolution of the foreclosure process [54][56] Question: What is the expectation for CLO issuance? - The company plans to execute a CLO in the fourth quarter of the year, despite recent market widening [60][61]