Owl Rock(US:OBDC)2025-05-08 15:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported total portfolio investments of nearly $18 billion, total net assets of nearly $8 billion, and total outstanding debt of approximately $10 billion [17] - The first quarter NAV per share was $15.14, down $0.12 from the last quarter, primarily due to changes in credit spreads and write-downs on a small number of high-focus investments [17] - Adjusted net investment income was $0.39 per share, down $0.08 from the prior quarter, reflecting a reduction in one-time income [17][18] - The company declared a supplemental dividend of $0.01 and a second quarter base dividend of $0.37, indicating a 106% dividend coverage [18][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company recorded $1.2 billion of new investment commitments and $800 million of fundings in the first quarter, with over 90% of direct loan originations consisting of first lien investments [9][10] - The median EBITDA of portfolio borrowers grew slightly to $120 million, and weighted average EBITDA increased to $215 million [10] - The non-accrual rate was 0.8% at fair value and 1.4% at cost, compared to 0.4% and 1.9% in the prior quarter, reflecting two additions and the removal of three positions [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that portfolio company revenues and EBITDA increased in the mid to high single digits year over year, approximately double the U.S. GDP growth rate [11] - The average loan-to-value (LTV) ratio was just over 40%, providing significant support underneath the capital [11] - The company highlighted a stable interest coverage ratio of 1.8 times based on current spot rates, benefiting from lower rates [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to capitalize on market volatility by providing support to borrowers and sponsors facing challenges in accessing financing [23][25] - The strategy remains focused on credit quality, with an emphasis on upper middle market companies and diversified portfolios [84] - The company is exploring opportunities to increase exposure to non-traditional lending strategies, aiming to grow this segment from low double digits to around 15% of the portfolio [66] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the portfolio's resilience and the ability to maintain dividend levels despite macroeconomic uncertainties [26] - The company is closely monitoring investments for potential tariff impacts but remains confident in its defensive positioning [14] - Management acknowledged the uncertainty in the M&A environment due to tariffs and indicated that this may continue for a while [32] Other Important Information - The company introduced non-GAAP accounting adjustments due to the merger with OBDE, recognizing an $83 million purchase discount on the assets acquired [15] - The company ended the quarter with over $3 billion of total cash and capacity on its facilities, providing ample liquidity to meet near-term funding needs [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Perspective on macroeconomic developments and M&A activity - Management noted that the M&A environment remains muted due to uncertainty created by tariffs, impacting deal flow and spreads [30][32] Question: Timeline for public listing of OTF post-merger - Management stated there is nothing specific to disclose regarding the public listing of OTF at this time [39][40] Question: Share repurchase strategy during volatility - Management confirmed that share repurchase programs are regularly evaluated, but recent volatility did not coincide with open windows for repurchases [46][48] Question: Opportunities to rationalize inherited liabilities - Management indicated that there are opportunities to reprice certain dropdown facilities and CLOs inherited from the merger [51][52] Question: Probability of near-term recession and its impact on underwriting - Management acknowledged the need for caution in underwriting due to potential economic changes but noted that their portfolio companies are currently stable [57][58] Question: Operational efficiencies from the merger - Management highlighted ongoing efforts to optimize capital structure and reduce funding costs, with some synergies already realized [72][75] Question: Pipeline mix of new versus incumbent borrowers - Management reported that more than half of the deal flow in the first quarter came from existing borrowers, with a consistent pipeline expected [92][93]