Trinity Capital (TRIN) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Trinity Capital achieved record net investment income of $144 million or $2.08 per share in 2025, with a 15% increase in Q4 net investment income to $40 million compared to the same quarter last year [3][4] - The company's net asset value (NAV) grew 10% quarter-over-quarter to a record $1.1 billion, and total assets under management (AUM) increased to over $2.8 billion, up 38% year-over-year [4][5] - The return on equity was reported at 15.3%, ranking among the highest in the Business Development Company (BDC) space [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The funding for the year reached a record $1.5 billion, with Q4 funding amounting to $435 million, representing a 21% increase from the previous year [6] - The breakdown of Q4 fundings included 27% to sponsor finance, 25% to equipment financing, 20% to life sciences, 15% to tech lending, and 13% to asset-backed lending [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained strong credit quality, with non-accruals at less than 1% of the portfolio at fair value, totaling $15.2 million [4][20] - Portfolio companies collectively raised over $7.8 billion in equity during 2025, indicating strong access to capital [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Trinity Capital is focused on expanding its managed funds business and has established several co-investment vehicles to enhance liquidity and income for shareholders [4][11] - The company is strategically diversifying its portfolio, particularly in the AI and software sectors, while maintaining a disciplined underwriting approach [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to capitalize on market opportunities, particularly in the context of current volatility, and emphasized the importance of maintaining liquidity [35][40] - The management team believes that the best days are still ahead for Trinity Capital, supported by a diversified pipeline and disciplined investment strategy [15][14] Other Important Information - The company transitioned to a monthly dividend of $0.17 per share starting January 2026, maintaining the same aggregate quarterly payout [15] - Trinity Capital's stock has delivered a cumulative total return of 109% since its IPO, outperforming both the peer average of 70% and the S&P 500's 82% [5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Opportunities in Software Loans - The management acknowledged the potential to take advantage of turmoil in the software sector and mentioned being opportunistic in converting some loans to equipment finance [23][25] Question: Portfolio Concerns - Management indicated a focus on industries with disruptive technology and strong capital backing, maintaining a cautious approach to sectors not receiving equity dollars [30][31] Question: Strategic Opportunities Amidst Volatility - Management confirmed the intention to remain opportunistic and leverage liquidity to capitalize on market dislocations [35][36] Question: Fund Management Business Growth - Management expressed optimism about the growth of the fund management business, anticipating increased interest from investors seeking diversification [40][41] Question: Portfolio Breakdown and Credit Quality - Management provided insights into the portfolio's performance, noting low non-accrual rates and the strength of existing portfolio companies raising capital [50][56]