Core Insights - The value of mortgage real estate investment trusts (REITs) like Rithm Capital Corp. (NYSE: RITM) is highlighted as a strong investment option amid market volatility, offering passive income through ultra-safe dividends and yields [1] Group 1 - Rithm Capital Corp. is positioned as a resilient investment choice for passive income investors [1] - The mortgage trust sector is noted for its ability to provide stability during uncertain market conditions [1]

Core Insights - Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance Inc. (NYSE: ARI) did not generate sufficient distributable profits to cover its dividend in the first quarter of 2025, which is a significant concern for investors [1] Company Summary - The primary takeaway from ARI's 1Q25 earnings presentation is the inability to earn its dividend through distributable profits, indicating potential financial instability [1]

Financial Performance - Net income per share for Q1 2025 was $018, compared to $007 in Q4 2024[10] - Book value per share decreased slightly from $809 in Q4 2024 to $794 in Q1 2025[10] - Dividends declared per common share remained constant at $036[16] - Net portfolio income decreased from $23514 thousand in 2024 to $21348 thousand in 2025[16] Portfolio Characteristics - Average MBS balances increased from $5348 million in Q4 2024 to $5996 million in Q1 2025[14] - The weighted average coupon of the fixed rate MBS portfolio increased from 503% at December 31, 2024, to 532% at March 31, 2025[43, 47] - Economic leverage ratio increased from 73 in Q4 2024 to 78 in Q1 2025[14] - Liquidity decreased from 105% in Q4 2024 to 78% in Q1 2025[14] Hedging and Funding - The weighted average repo rate was 446% as of March 31, 2025[51] - Total notional balance of hedge positions was $(47328) million[56] - Interest rate swaps had a notional balance of $(39093) million with a weighted average pay fix rate of 329%[56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company raised $270 million of new capital year-to-date, achieving this at a premium to book value, which is accretive to shareholders [33] - Net interest income continues to trend up as new investments with attractive yields are added to the portfolio while financing costs trend down [32] - The leverage ratio increased from 7.4% to 7.8% due to a decline in book value [72] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The portfolio generated a total return of 2.6% during a quarter with significant swings in rates, validating the investment strategy [36] - Agency RMBS spreads widened sharply, ranging from 145 to 160 basis points over treasuries by the end of the quarter [42] - The company maintained a disciplined liquidity-focused risk management process, allowing it to navigate market volatility without crystallizing losses [43] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Long-end treasury yields unexpectedly rose, reflecting selling pressure, while the dollar experienced weakness against major currencies [15] - The market saw a classic risk-off reaction following the April 2nd tariff announcement, leading to declines in equity prices and sharp drops in interest rates [40] - The availability of repo funding remained strong, with costs stable between 15 and 17 basis points over SOFR [63] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to see compelling opportunities in agency residential mortgage-backed securities while managing through a rapidly changing landscape [55] - A focus on disciplined risk management and real-time adjustments is emphasized as the regulatory and political landscape evolves [27] - The company is preparing for potential changes in the GSEs and is evaluating outlier scenarios for market reactions [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management views the current environment as favorable, with a steeper yield curve and lower financing costs supporting the business model [8] - The company is prepared for continued volatility in the financial and economic environments, expecting surprises in the future [28] - The dividend is set based on long-term returns, capital availability, and overall risk, with a recent increase reflecting confidence in generating attractive returns [30] Other Important Information - The company has operated with generally lower leverage and a robust liquidity position, allowing it to remain agile amid external shifts [21] - Management emphasizes the importance of transparency in investments, with all assets marked and reflected in earnings and book value [57] - The executive team collectively owns nearly 2% of the company, aligning their interests with those of shareholders [58] Q&A Session Summary Question: Repo funding costs and availability - Repo funding costs have been stable between 15 and 17 basis points over SOFR, with strong availability in financing markets [63] Question: Hedging strategy amidst volatility - The company is comfortable with its current hedge composition, primarily using swaps as a natural hedge for the mortgage portfolio [65] Question: Investing opportunities in the current environment - The steeper curve and wider spreads present significant ROE potential, with diversification across the coupon stack providing duration certainty [70] Question: Book value and dividend implications - The book value includes the dividend accrued, and leverage is at 7.8 times, reflecting a cautious approach to adding risk [76][78] Question: Preparing for GSE changes and potential spread widening - The company is focused on maintaining liquidity to withstand price shocks and is conducting scenario analysis for potential GSE changes [122][91]