Great Elm Capital (GECC) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net investment income (NII) of $2.4 million, or $0.20 per share, down from $5.9 million, or $0.51 per share, in the second quarter of 2025 [11][12] - Net asset value (NAV) per share decreased to $10.01 from $12.10, primarily due to losses associated with First Brands [9][12] - The asset coverage ratio was 168.2%, slightly down from 169.5% as of June 30 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The CLO joint venture (JV) generated $1.5 million in the third quarter, a decline from $4.3 million in the second quarter [7][11] - The company received $4.3 million in distributions from the CLO JV in the fourth quarter to date, with expectations for further distributions [7][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a significant adverse impact on NAV due to First Brands' bankruptcy, which affected NAV by approximately $16.5 million [4][11] - The investment in CW Opportunity 2 LP saw a decline in fair value, with CoreWeave common stock dropping approximately 16% in the quarter [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on increasing allocations to first lien senior secured investments to enhance portfolio quality [13] - A $10 million share repurchase program has been approved by the board, alongside a $0.37 dividend for the fourth quarter [6][12] - The company aims to diversify its portfolio and reduce average position sizing as it deploys capital [6][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to rebuild income and NAV, emphasizing a strong capital position and focus on risk management [6][10] - The company is taking a measured approach to new originations, prioritizing credit fundamentals and downside protection [17] - Management noted that the exposure to First Brands was too large and highlighted the importance of portfolio diversification moving forward [6][9] Other Important Information - The company has over $25 million in cash to deploy and $50 million available under its revolver, providing significant financial flexibility [17] - The company is actively working to monetize non-yielding equity investments to reinvest in cash-generating opportunities [15][17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about CoreWeave capital distributions - Management confirmed that distributions received cover the cost basis of the investment, with future distributions expected to generate additional capital for reinvestment [23][24] Question: Clarification on the $20 million capital from non-yielding assets - Management indicated that the $20 million includes CoreWeave and other identified non-yielding assets expected to be harvested [25][26] Question: Discussion on the current investment pipeline - Management noted that while spreads in public markets are tight, they are focused on secured and income-generating opportunities, with a robust deal pipeline [27]