Navigating Contradictions: Insights from Recent Earnings Calls on Market Spreads, Tariffs, and Geopolitical Risks

Portfolio Growth and Quality Improvement:
- Capital Southwest's investment portfolio grew by approximately $300 million or 21% from $1.5 billion to $1.8 billion in fiscal year 2025.
- The quality of the debt portfolio improved, with a reduction in weighted average leverage to 3.5x and maintaining a solid 94% cash income as a percentage of total investment income.
- This growth is attributed to strategic investments that reduced nonaccruals and maintained a strong financial profile.

Equity Portfolio Performance:
- The company's unrealized appreciation in the equity portfolio grew from $38.5 million or $0.85 per share to $53.2 million or $1 per share over the fiscal year.
- Subsequent to quarter end, the company harvested realized gains of approximately $20 million on equity investments in two portfolio companies.
- The increase in equity portfolio value is due to strategic investments in growing lower middle market businesses and favorable market conditions.

Capital Diversification:
- Capital Southwest raised over $300 million in new debt capital commitments during the year, including a $230 million fixed 5.125% convertible bond issuance and $75 million in new secured debt commitments.
- The company received approval for a second SBIC license, allowing for an additional $175 million in debt capital.
- Diversification efforts were aimed at ensuring liquidity and accessing multiple capital sources during uncertain economic conditions.

Dividend Growth and Stability:
- Capital Southwest grew its regular dividend from $2.24 per share in fiscal year 2024 to $2.31 per share in fiscal year 2025, while paying additional $0.23 per share in supplemental dividends.
- Since the launch of its credit strategy, the company has increased its quarterly regular dividend 29x without cutting the regular dividend.
- The dividend growth strategy is supported by strong credit performance and access to multiple capital sources.