Capital Southwest's Q3 2025: Discrepancies Unveiled in M&A Activity, Competition, and Prepayment Risks

These are the key contradictions discussed in Capital Southwest's latest 2025 Q3 earnings call, specifically including: M&A Market Activity and Funding Costs, Competition and Interest Coverage, and Prepayment Risk and Realized Loss Explanations:



Dividend Performance and Growth:
- Capital Southwest reported pre-tax net investment income of $0.64 per share, covering both its regular dividend of $0.58 per share and supplemental dividend of $0.05 per share.
- The company declared a regular dividend of $0.58 per share and an increased supplemental dividend to $0.06 per share for the next quarter.
- The growth in dividends was supported by strong portfolio earnings and the company's strategy to maintain stable, attractive shareholder returns over the long term.

Investment Activity and Market Conditions:
- The company committed $317.5 million to new portfolio companies, with $172.3 million in first lien senior secured debt and $3 million in equity investments.
- Deal flow in the lower middle market was strong, with over 41% of total capital commitments being follow-on financings in performing companies.
- The competitive environment and tight loan pricing were attributed to the depth and strength of relationships cultivated with private equity firms.

Portfolio Performance and Quality:
- Capital Southwest's on-balance sheet credit portfolio grew by 31% year-over-year to $1.5 billion, with 98% of the portfolio in first lien senior secured debt.
- The portfolio had 95% of assets rated in the top two categories on a 4-point scale, indicating strong credit quality.
- The quality of the portfolio was maintained by conservative risk management and diversification across industries and companies.

Capitalization Strategy and Balance Sheet Management:
- The company issued $230 million in aggregate principal of convertible notes, which were used to redeem $140 million January 2026 notes and pay down the senior secured revolving credit facility.
- The convertible notes had a coupon rate of 5.125% and an initial conversion price of $25 per share.
- This issuance provides flexibility and interest expense savings, aligning with the company's strategy to maintain a conservative leverage approach.