Such loans may require anything from minor modifications to a substantial amount of workout negotiations and/or restructuring, which may divert attention from other activities and may entail, among other things, a substantial reduction in the interest rate, a substantial write-down of the principal of the loan and significant legal costs.
Such loans require anything from minor modifications to a substantial amount of workout negotiations and/or restructuring, which may divert attention from other activities and may entail, among other things, a substantial reduction in the interest rate, a substantial write-down of the principal of the loan and significant legal costs.
Even when we purchase very senior interests in loans and/or securitizations, in the event of default and the exhaustion of any equity support, reserve fund, letter of credit, mezzanine loans or B-Notes, and any classes of securities junior to those in which we may invest, we may not be able to recover all of our investment in the debt instruments or securities we purchased.
Even when we purchase very senior interests in loans and/or securitizations, in the event of default and the exhaustion of any equity support, reserve fund, letter of credit, mezzanine loans or B-Notes, and any classes of securities junior to those in which we invest, we may not be able to recover all of our investment in the debt instruments or securities we purchased.
Incurring debt subjects us to many risks that, if realized, would materially and adversely affect us, including the risk that: • our cash flow from operations may be insufficient to make required payments of principal and interest on the debt or we may fail to comply with all of the other covenants contained in the debt, which is likely to result in: (i) acceleration of such debt (and any other debt containing a cross-default or cross-acceleration provision) that we may be unable to repay from internal funds or to refinance on favorable terms, or at all; (ii) our inability to borrow unused amounts under our financing arrangements, even if we are current in payments on borrowings under those arrangements; (iii) enforcement of set-off rights against other assets; and/or (iv) the loss of some or all of our assets to foreclosure or sale; • our debt may increase our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions, and investment yields may not increase with higher financing costs, including as a result of higher interest rates; • we may be required to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our debt, thereby reducing funds available for operations, future business opportunities, shareholder distributions or other purposes; • our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate may be limited; • we may be restricted from capitalizing on business opportunities; • we may be placed at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt; 32 Table of Contents • we may not be able to refinance debt that matures prior to the investment it was used to finance on favorable terms, or at all; • we may have increased difficulty in satisfying our financial obligations; • we may be limited by our ability to borrow additional funds for working capital, acquisitions, debt service requirements, execution of our business strategy or other general partnership purposes; • if we are compelled to liquidate our investments to repay obligations to our lenders, we may be unable to comply with REIT requirements regarding the composition of our assets and our sources of income, ultimately jeopardizing our qualification as a REIT, or we may be subject to a 100% tax on any resultant gain if we sell assets that are treated as dealer property or inventory; • we will have increased exposure to risks if the counterparties of our debt obligations are impacted by credit market turmoil or exposure to financial, regulatory or other pressures; and • we may have increased difficulty complying with applicable regulatory requirements.
Incurring debt subjects us to many risks that, if realized, would materially and adversely affect us, including the risk that: • our cash flow from operations may be insufficient to make required payments of principal and interest on the debt or we may fail to comply with all of the other covenants contained in the debt, which is likely to result in: (i) acceleration of such debt (and any other debt containing a cross-default or cross-acceleration provision) that we may be unable to repay from internal funds or to refinance on favorable terms, or at all; (ii) our inability to borrow unused amounts under our financing arrangements, even if we are current in payments on borrowings under those arrangements; (iii) enforcement of set-off rights against other assets; and/or (iv) the loss of some or all of our assets to foreclosure or sale; • our debt may increase our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions, and investment yields may not increase with higher financing costs, including as a result of higher interest rates; • we may be required to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our debt, thereby reducing funds available for operations, future business opportunities, shareholder distributions or other purposes; • our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate may be limited; • we may be restricted from capitalizing on business opportunities; • we may be placed at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt; • we may not be able to refinance debt that matures prior to the investment it was used to finance on favorable terms, or at all; • we may have increased difficulty in satisfying our financial obligations; 33 Table of Contents • we may be limited by our ability to borrow additional funds for working capital, acquisitions, debt service requirements, execution of our business strategy or other general partnership purposes; • if we are compelled to liquidate our investments to repay obligations to our lenders, we may be unable to comply with REIT requirements regarding the composition of our assets and our sources of income, ultimately jeopardizing our qualification as a REIT, or we may be subject to a 100% tax on any resultant gain if we sell assets that are treated as dealer property or inventory; • we will have increased exposure to risks if the counterparties of our debt obligations are impacted by credit market turmoil or exposure to financial, regulatory or other pressures; and • we may have increased difficulty complying with applicable regulatory requirements.
Some of the factors that could negatively affect the price of our Class A common stock or result in fluctuations in the price or trading volume of our Class A common stock include: • our actual or projected operating results, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity, or changes in business strategy or prospects; • variations in our quarterly operating results; • a compression of the yield on our investments and an increase in the cost of our liabilities; 41 Table of Contents • changes in the value of our portfolio; • failure to meet our earnings estimates; • publication of research reports, including by short sellers, or speculation in the press or the investment community, about us or the commercial real estate industry or the failure of securities analysts to cover our Class A common stock; • additions or departures of our executive officers and other key management personnel; • adverse market reaction to any indebtedness we may incur or loss of a major funding source or securities we may issue in the future; • dilutive equity issuances by us, including additional shares of Class A common stock and options, rights, warrants and appreciation rights relating to Class A common stock or securities convertible into Class A common stock, as authorized by our board of directors or pursuant to an equity incentive plan, or significant share resales by our shareholders, or the perception that such issuances or resales may occur; • issuance of securities at a price less than our then-current book value per share; • the timing, amount, pricing and any potential discontinuance of Class A common stock repurchases by the Company; • the issuance of any debt or equity securities that rank senior to our Class A common stock or which may have rights, preferences and privileges more favorable than those of our Class A common stock; • actions by shareholders; • changes in market valuations or operating performance of similar companies; • changes or proposed changes in laws or regulations or differing interpretations thereof affecting our business or enforcement of these laws and regulations, or announcements relating to these matters; • adverse publicity; • actual or anticipated changes in our current or future dividend yield, including as a result of increases in market interest rates, which may lead investors to demand a higher dividend yield for our Class A common stock and would result in increased interest expenses on our debt that lowers our income available for distribution; • failure to maintain our REIT qualification or exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act; • a credit rating downgrade; • significant volatility in the market price and trading volume of securities of publicly traded REITs or other companies in our sector, including us, which is not necessarily related to the operating performance of these companies; • short-selling pressure with respect to shares of our Class A common stock or REITs generally; • price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market from time to time; and • general market, economic, geopolitical and world health conditions or events, and trends including inflationary concerns.
Some of the factors that could negatively affect the price of our Class A common stock or result in fluctuations in the price or trading volume of our Class A common stock include: • our actual or projected operating results, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity, or changes in business strategy or prospects; • variations in our quarterly operating results; • a compression of the yield on our investments and an increase in the cost of our liabilities; • changes in the value of our portfolio; • failure to meet our earnings estimates; • publication of research reports, including by short sellers, or speculation in the press or the investment community, about us or the commercial real estate industry or the failure of securities analysts to cover our Class A common stock; • additions or departures of our executive officers and other key management personnel; • adverse market reaction to any indebtedness we may incur or loss of a major funding source or securities we may issue in the future; • dilutive equity issuances by us, including additional shares of Class A common stock and options, rights, warrants and appreciation rights relating to Class A common stock or securities convertible into Class A common stock, as authorized by our board of directors or pursuant to an equity incentive plan, or significant share resales by our shareholders, or the perception that such issuances or resales may occur; • issuance of securities at a price less than our then-current book value per share; • the timing, amount, pricing and any potential discontinuance of Class A common stock repurchases by the Company; • the issuance of any debt or equity securities that rank senior to our Class A common stock or which may have rights, preferences and privileges more favorable than those of our Class A common stock; • actions by shareholders; • changes in market valuations or operating performance of similar companies; • changes or proposed changes in laws or regulations or differing interpretations thereof affecting our business or enforcement of these laws and regulations, or announcements relating to these matters; • adverse publicity; • actual or anticipated changes in our current or future dividend yield, including as a result of increases in market interest rates, which may lead investors to demand a higher dividend yield for our Class A common stock and would result in increased interest expenses on our debt that lowers our income available for distribution; • failure to maintain our REIT qualification or exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act; • a credit rating downgrade; • significant volatility in the market price and trading volume of securities of publicly traded REITs or other companies in our sector, including us, which is not necessarily related to the operating performance of these companies; • short-selling pressure with respect to shares of our Class A common stock or REITs generally; • price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market from time to time; and • general market, economic, geopolitical and world health conditions or events, and trends including inflationary concerns.
Repurchased loans typically would require a significant allocation of working capital to be carried on our books, and our ability to borrow against such assets may be limited. Any significant repurchases could adversely affect our business and reputation. When we participate in a public securitization, certain risk retention rules apply.
Repurchased loans typically would require a significant allocation of working capital to be carried on our books, and our ability to borrow against such assets may be limited. Any significant repurchases could adversely affect our business and reputation. When we participate in a securitization, certain risk retention rules apply.
We depend on our loan originators to generate borrower clients by, among other things, developing relationships with commercial property owners, real estate agents and brokers, developers and others, which we believe leads to repeat and referral business. Accordingly, we must be able to attract, motivate and retain skilled loan originators.
We also depend on our loan originators to generate borrower clients by, among other things, developing relationships with commercial property owners, real estate agents and brokers, developers and others, which we believe leads to repeat and referral business. Accordingly, we must be able to attract, motivate and retain skilled loan originators.
Some competitors may have a lower cost of funds and access to funding sources that may not be available to us. Under our credit facilities, the lenders have the right to review the assets which we are seeking to finance and approve the purchase and financing of such assets in their sole discretion.
Some competitors may have a lower cost of funds and access to funding sources that are not available to us. Under our credit facilities, the lenders have the right to review the assets which we are seeking to finance and approve the purchase and financing of such assets in their sole discretion.
Furthermore, in the operation of our business we also use third-party vendors that store certain sensitive data, including confidential information about our business and employees, and while we conduct commercially reasonable due diligence on these vendors, these third parties are subject to their own cybersecurity threats.
Furthermore, in the operation of our business we also use third-party vendors that store certain sensitive data, including confidential information about our business and employees, and while we conduct commercially reasonable due diligence on these vendors, such third parties are subject to their own cybersecurity threats.
In particular: • part of the income and gain recognized by certain qualified employee pension trusts with respect to our Class A common stock may be treated as unrelated business taxable income if shares of our Class A common stock are predominantly held by qualified employee pension trusts, and we are required to rely on a special look-through rule for purposes of meeting one of the REIT ownership tests, and we are not operated in a manner to avoid treatment of such income or gain as unrelated business taxable income; • part of the income and gain recognized by a tax-exempt investor with respect to our Class A common stock would constitute unrelated business taxable income if the investor incurs debt in order to acquire the Class A common stock; • part or all of the income or gain recognized with respect to our Class A common stock by social clubs, voluntary employee benefit associations, supplemental unemployment benefit trusts and qualified group legal services plans which are exempt from U.S. federal income taxation under the Code may be treated as unrelated business taxable income; and • to the extent that we have “excess inclusion income,” e.g., from: (i) us (or a part of us, or a disregarded subsidiary of ours) being treated as a “taxable mortgage pool;” (ii) us holding residual interests in a REMIC securitization; or (iii) us receiving income from another REIT that is treated as excess inclusion income, a portion of the distributions paid to a tax-exempt shareholder that is allocable to such excess inclusion income may be treated as unrelated business taxable income.
In particular: • part of the income and gain recognized by certain qualified employee pension trusts with respect to our Class A common stock may be treated as unrelated business taxable income if shares of our Class A common stock are predominantly held by qualified employee pension trusts, and we are required to rely on a special look-through rule for purposes of meeting one of the REIT ownership tests, and we are not operated in a manner to avoid treatment of such income or gain as unrelated business taxable income; • part of the income and gain recognized by a tax-exempt investor with respect to our Class A common stock would constitute unrelated business taxable income if the investor incurs debt in order to acquire the Class A common stock; • part or all of the income or gain recognized with respect to our Class A common stock by social clubs, voluntary employee benefit associations, supplemental unemployment benefit trusts and qualified group legal services plans which are exempt from U.S. federal income taxation under the Code may be treated as unrelated business taxable income; and • to the extent that we have “excess inclusion income,” e.g., from: (i) us (or a part of us, or a disregarded subsidiary of ours) being treated as a “taxable mortgage pool;” (ii) us holding residual interests in a REMIC securitization; or (iii) us receiving income from another REIT that is treated as excess inclusion income, a portion of the distributions paid to a 48 Table of Contents tax-exempt shareholder that is allocable to such excess inclusion income may be treated as unrelated business taxable income.
Incidents may include unauthorized access to our data assets, phishing attacks, account takeovers, business email compromise, social engineering, denial of service, malicious software, ransomware that encrypts critical data as part of a scheme to extort payment, and other electronic or cybersecurity breaches.
Cyber incidents may include unauthorized access to our data assets, phishing attacks, account takeovers, business email compromise, social engineering, denial of service, malicious software, ransomware that encrypts critical data as part of a scheme to extort payment, and other electronic or cybersecurity breaches.
In addition, the trading volume in our Class A common stock may fluctuate and cause significant price variations to occur. If the market price of our Class A common stock declines significantly, you may be unable to sell your Class A common stock at or above your purchase price, if at all.
In addition, the trading volume in our Class A common stock can fluctuate and cause significant price variations to occur. If the market price of our Class A common stock declines significantly, you may be unable to sell your Class A common stock at or above your purchase price, if at all.
Additionally, in the event of declining interest rates, borrowers are more likely to prepay, thereby exposing us to the risk that the prepayment proceeds may be reinvested only at a lower interest rate than that borne by the prepaid obligation.
In the event of declining interest rates, borrowers are more likely to prepay, thereby exposing us to the risk that the prepayment proceeds may be reinvested only at a lower interest rate than that borne by the prepaid obligation.
The commercial real estate mortgage loans and other commercial real estate-related loans we provide, the commercial mortgage loans underlying the securities in which we may invest, and the real estate that we own are subject to the ability of the commercial property to generate NOI (and not the independent income or assets of the borrower in the case of mortgage loans).
The commercial real estate mortgage loans and other commercial real estate-related loans we provide, the commercial mortgage loans underlying the securities in which we invest, and the real estate that we own are subject to the ability of the commercial property to generate NOI (and not the independent income or assets of the borrower in the case of mortgage loans).
The commercial real estate mortgages and other commercial real estate-related loans we provide, the commercial mortgage loans underlying the CMBS and other real estate-related securities in which we may invest, and the real estate that we own are subject to the ability of the commercial property to generate net operating income (“NOI”).
The commercial real estate mortgages and other commercial real estate-related loans we provide, the commercial mortgage loans underlying the CMBS and other real estate-related securities in which we invest, and the real estate that we own are subject to the ability of the commercial property to generate net operating income (“NOI”).
In general, such actions could potentially increase our financing costs and reduce our liquidity or require us to sell assets at an inopportune time or an unfavorable price. 33 Table of Contents In order to borrow funds under a repurchase or warehouse agreement or other financing arrangement, the lender has the right to review the potential assets for which we are seeking financing and approve such asset in its sole discretion.
In general, such actions could potentially increase our financing costs and reduce our liquidity or require us to sell assets at an inopportune time or an unfavorable price. 34 Table of Contents In order to borrow funds under a repurchase or warehouse agreement or other financing arrangement, the lender has the right to review the potential assets for which we are seeking financing and approve such asset in its sole discretion.
If the fair market value or income potential of our assets declines as a result of increased interest rates, general market conditions, government actions or other factors, including changes in the carrying value of certain assets, we may need to increase our real estate assets and income and/or liquidate our non-REIT-qualifying assets to maintain our REIT qualification or exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act.
If the relative fair market value or income potential of our REIT-qualified assets declines as a result of increased interest rates, general market conditions, government actions or other factors, including changes in the carrying value of certain assets, we may need to increase our real estate assets and income and/or liquidate our non-REIT-qualifying assets to maintain our REIT qualification or exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act.
In executing our business plan, we regularly consider the allocation of capital to our various commercial real estate business lines, including: (i) our primary business of originating senior first mortgage fixed and floating rate loans collateralized by commercial real estate with flexible loan structures; (ii) owning and operating commercial real estate, including net leased commercial properties; and (iii) investing in investment grade securities secured by first mortgage loans on commercial real estate.
In executing our business plan, we regularly consider the allocation of capital to our various commercial real estate business segments, including: (i) our primary business of originating senior first mortgage fixed and floating rate loans collateralized by commercial real estate with flexible loan structures; (ii) owning and operating commercial real estate, including net leased commercial properties; and (iii) investing in investment grade securities secured by first mortgage loans on commercial real estate.
We expect that certain of our subsidiaries (including any series thereof) may rely on the exclusion from the definition of “investment company” under the Investment Company Act pursuant to Section 3(c)(5)(C) of the Investment Company Act, which is available for entities “primarily engaged” in the business of “purchasing or otherwise acquiring mortgages and other liens on and interests in real estate.” This exclusion, as interpreted by the staff of the SEC, requires that an entity invest at least 55% of its assets in qualifying real estate assets and at least 80% of its assets in qualifying real estate assets and real estate-related assets.
We expect that certain of our subsidiaries (including any series thereof) may rely on the exclusion from the definition of “investment company” under the Investment Company Act pursuant to Section 3(c)(5)(C) of the Investment Company Act, which is available for entities “primarily engaged” in the business of “purchasing or otherwise acquiring mortgages and other 38 Table of Contents liens on and interests in real estate.” This exclusion, as interpreted by the staff of the SEC, requires that an entity invest at least 55% of its assets in qualifying real estate assets and at least 80% of its assets in qualifying real estate assets and real estate-related assets.
Risks Related to Regulatory and Compliance Matters If our subsidiary that is regulated as a registered investment adviser is unable to meet the requirements of the SEC or fails to comply with certain U.S. federal and state securities laws and regulations, it may face termination of its investment adviser registration, fines or other disciplinary action.
Risks Related to Regulatory and Compliance Matters If our subsidiary that is regulated as a registered investment adviser is unable to meet the requirements of the SEC or fails to comply with certain U.S. federal and state securities laws and regulations, it will face termination of its investment adviser registration, fines or other disciplinary action.
Loans may be or become non-performing for a variety of reasons, including, without limitation, because the underlying property is too highly leveraged or the borrower falls upon financial distress, in either case, resulting in the borrower being unable to meet its debt service obligations.
Loans become non-performing for a variety of reasons, including, without limitation, because the underlying property is too highly leveraged or the borrower falls upon financial distress, in either case, resulting in the borrower being unable to meet its debt service obligations.
If we are required to materially increase our level of allowance for credit losses, such increase could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Certain balance sheet investments may be more illiquid and involve a greater risk of loss.
If we are required to materially increase our level of allowance for credit losses, such increase could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Certain balance sheet investments are more illiquid and involve a greater risk of loss.
Risks Related to Our Taxation as a REIT • If we fail to qualify as a REIT, we could incur substantial tax liability. As a REIT, we and our investors may still face other tax liabilities. • Our REIT qualification depends on meeting asset, income, organizational, distribution, shareholder ownership and other requirements.
Risks Related to Our Taxation as a REIT • If we fail to qualify as a REIT, we will incur substantial tax liability. As a REIT, we and our investors may still face other tax liabilities. • Our REIT qualification depends on meeting asset, income, organizational, distribution, shareholder ownership and other requirements.
Hedging against interest rate, credit and market value changes may fail to protect or could adversely affect our business because, among other things: • hedging can be expensive, particularly during periods of rising and volatile interest rates; • available hedges may not correspond directly with the risk for which protection is sought; • due to a credit loss or other factors, the duration of the hedge may not match the duration of the related liability; • applicable law may require mandatory margining or clearing of certain hedges we may wish to use, which may raise costs; • the counterparties with which we engage in hedging transactions may cease making markets and quoting prices in such instruments, which may render us unable to enter into an offsetting transaction with respect to an open position; • the credit quality of the hedging counterparty owing money on the hedge may be downgraded to such an extent that it impairs our ability to sell or assign the hedging transaction; • the hedging counterparty may default on its obligations to us (including payment or delivery obligations); • we may have to limit our use of hedging techniques that might otherwise be advantageous or to implement those hedges through a taxable REIT subsidiary (“TRS”) to comply with REIT requirements, increasing the cost of our hedging activities because our TRSs would be subject to tax on gains and hedging-related losses in our TRSs will generally not provide any tax benefit, except for losses carried forward against future taxable income in the TRSs; and • we may purchase a hedge that turns out not to be necessary (i.e., a hedge that is out of the money).
Hedging against interest rate, credit and market value changes may fail to protect or could adversely affect our business because, among other things: • hedging can be expensive, particularly during periods of rising and volatile interest rates; • available hedges may not correspond directly with the risk for which protection is sought; • due to a credit loss or other factors, the duration of the hedge may not match the duration of the related liability; • applicable law may require mandatory margining or clearing of certain hedges we may wish to use, which may raise costs; • the counterparties with which we engage in hedging transactions may cease making markets and quoting prices in such instruments, which may render us unable to enter into an offsetting transaction with respect to an open position; • the credit quality of the hedging counterparty owing money on the hedge may be downgraded to such an extent that it impairs our ability to sell or assign the hedging transaction; • the hedging counterparty may default on its obligations to us (including payment or delivery obligations); • we may have to limit our use of hedging techniques that might otherwise be advantageous or to implement those hedges through a taxable REIT subsidiary (“TRS”) to comply with REIT requirements, increasing the cost of our hedging activities because our TRSs would be subject to tax on gains and hedging-related losses in our TRSs will generally not provide any tax benefit, except for losses carried forward against future taxable income in the TRSs; and • we may purchase a hedge that turns out not to be necessary (i.e., a hedge that is out of the money). 40 Table of Contents In addition, we may fail to recalculate, readjust and execute hedges in an efficient manner.
Furthermore, strategic alliance partners may: (i) have economic or business interests or goals that are inconsistent with ours; (ii) take actions contrary to our policies or objectives; (iii) undergo a change of control; (iv) experience financial and other difficulties; or (v) be unable or unwilling to fulfill their obligations, which may affect our financial conditions or results of operations.
Furthermore, strategic alliance partners may: (i) have economic or business interests or goals that are inconsistent with ours; (ii) take actions contrary to our policies or objectives; (iii) undergo a change of control; (iv) experience financial and other 18 Table of Contents difficulties; or (v) be unable or unwilling to fulfill their obligations, which may affect our financial conditions or results of operations.
We also consider the availability and cost of our likely sources of capital. If we fail to appropriately allocate capital and resources across our business lines or fail to optimize our investment and capital raising opportunities, our liquidity and financial performance may be adversely affected.
We also consider the availability and cost of our likely sources of capital. If we fail to appropriately allocate capital and resources across our business segments or fail to optimize our investment and capital raising opportunities, our liquidity and financial performance may be adversely affected.
We have a concentration of investments in the real estate sector and may have further concentrations from time to time in certain property types, locations, tenants and borrowers, which may increase our exposure to the risks of certain economic downturns. We and our borrowers operate in the commercial real estate sector.
We have a concentration of investments in the real estate sector and may have further concentrations from time to time in certain property types, locations, tenants and borrowers, which increases our exposure to the risks of certain economic downturns. We and our borrowers operate in the commercial real estate sector.
The value of our investments may be adversely affected by many factors that are beyond our control, including dislocations, illiquidity and volatility in the market for commercial real estate, commercial real estate finance and the broader financial markets.
The value of our investments can be adversely affected by many factors that are beyond our control, including dislocations, illiquidity and volatility in the market for commercial real estate, commercial real estate finance and the broader financial markets.
If the market in which the asset is located fails to recover according to the borrower’s projections, or if the borrower fails to improve the quality of the asset’s management and/or the value of the asset or fails to execute its business plan, the borrower may not receive a sufficient return 26 Table of Contents on the asset to satisfy the interim loan, and we bear the risk that we may not recover some or all of our investment.
If the market in which the asset is located fails to recover according to the borrower’s projections, or if the borrower fails to improve the quality of the asset’s management and/or the value of the asset or fails to execute its business plan, the borrower may not receive a sufficient return on the asset to satisfy the interim loan, and we bear the risk that we may not recover some or all of our investment.
Properties undergoing rehabilitation or capital improvements are subject to the additional risks of unanticipated delays, cost over-runs, contractor non-performance or borrower disputes with contractors resulting in mechanic’s or materialmen’s liens on the property, and the failure of borrower’s sponsors to contribute sufficient equity funds in order to keep the loan “in balance.” Further, interim loans may be relatively less liquid than loans against stabilized properties due to their short life, their potential unsuitability for securitization, any un-stabilized nature of the underlying real estate and the difficulty of recovery in the event of a borrower’s default.
Properties undergoing rehabilitation or capital improvements are subject to the additional risks of unanticipated delays, cost over-runs, contractor non- 27 Table of Contents performance or borrower disputes with contractors resulting in mechanic’s or materialmen’s liens on the property, and the failure of borrower’s sponsors to contribute sufficient equity funds in order to keep the loan “in balance.” Further, interim loans are relatively less liquid than loans against stabilized properties due to their short life, their potential unsuitability for securitization, any un-stabilized nature of the underlying real estate and the difficulty of recovery in the event of a borrower’s default.
In the past, securities class action litigation has often been instituted against companies following periods of volatility in their share price. This type of litigation could result in substantial costs and divert our attention and resources. Our charter contains REIT-related restrictions on the ownership of, and ability to transfer, our Class A common stock.
In the past, securities class action litigation has often been instituted against companies following periods of volatility in their share price. This type of litigation could result in substantial costs and divert our attention and resources. 42 Table of Contents Our charter contains REIT-related restrictions on the ownership of, and ability to transfer, our Class A common stock.
We will value these investments quarterly at fair value under GAAP. Because such valuations are subjective, the fair value of certain of our assets may fluctuate 31 Table of Contents over short periods of time and our determinations of fair value may differ materially from the values that would have been used if a ready market for these assets existed.
We will value these investments quarterly at fair value under GAAP. Because such valuations are subjective, the fair value of certain of our assets may fluctuate over short periods of time and our determinations of fair value may differ materially from the values that would have been used if a ready market for these assets existed.
Our determinations of fair value may have a material impact on our earnings, in the case of impaired loans and other assets, trading securities and available-for-sale securities that are subject to the CECL Standard or impairment review, or our accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) in our shareholders’ equity, in the case of available-for-sale securities that are subject only to temporary impairments.
Our determinations of fair value may have a material impact on our earnings, in the case of impaired loans and other assets, trading securities and available-for-sale securities that are subject to the CECL Standard 32 Table of Contents or impairment review, or our accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) in our shareholders’ equity, in the case of available-for-sale securities that are subject only to temporary impairments.
Thus, compliance with the REIT requirements may hinder our ability to make and, in certain cases, to maintain ownership of, certain attractive investments. Further, to qualify as a REIT, at the end of each calendar quarter, at least 75% of the value of our assets must consist of cash, cash items, government securities and qualified real estate assets.
Thus, compliance with the REIT requirements may hinder our ability to make and, in certain cases, to maintain ownership of, certain attractive investments. 45 Table of Contents Further, to qualify as a REIT, at the end of each calendar quarter, at least 75% of the value of our assets must consist of cash, cash items, government securities and qualified real estate assets.
In addition, if a significant number of our shareholders determine to sell shares of our Class A common stock in order to pay taxes owed on dividends, it may put downward pressure on the trading price of our Class A common stock. 47 Table of Contents Distributions payable by REITs do not qualify for the reduced tax rates available for some dividends.
In addition, if a significant number of our shareholders determine to sell shares of our Class A common stock in order to pay taxes owed on dividends, it may put downward pressure on the trading price of our Class A common stock. Distributions payable by REITs do not qualify for the reduced tax rates available for some dividends.
Our mortgage loan investments may require us to advance additional loan funds in the future. We may also need to fund capital expenditures and other significant expenses for our real estate property investments.
Certain of our mortgage loan investments may require us to advance additional loan funds in the future. We may also need to fund capital expenditures and other significant expenses for our real estate property investments.
The remainder of our investments in securities (other than government securities and qualified real estate assets) generally cannot include more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer or more than 10% of the total value of the outstanding securities of any one issuer.
The remainder of our investments in securities (other than government securities, securities of a TRS, and qualified real estate assets) generally cannot include more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer or more than 10% of the total value of the outstanding securities of any one issuer.
The 100% tax does not apply to gains from the sale of foreclosure property or property that is held 45 Table of Contents through a TRS or other taxable corporation, as is the case with our securitization business, although such income will be subject to tax in the hands of the corporation at regular corporate rates.
The 100% tax does not apply to gains from the sale of foreclosure property or property that is held through a TRS or other taxable corporation, as is the case with our securitization business, although such income will be subject to tax in the hands of the corporation at regular corporate rates.
Foreclosure may create a negative public perception of the related property, resulting in a diminution of its value, and also may subject us to environmental and other 24 Table of Contents liabilities associated with owning real estate, adversely affecting our ability to sell the property and potentially causing us to incur substantial remediation costs.
Foreclosure may create a negative public perception of the related property, resulting in a diminution of its value, and also may subject us to environmental and other liabilities associated with owning real estate, adversely affecting our ability to sell the property and potentially causing us to incur substantial remediation costs.
Our securitization activities are affected by a number of factors, including our loan origination volumes, changes in loan values, quality and performance during 28 Table of Contents the period such loans are on our books and conditions in the securitization and credit markets generally and at the time we seek to launch and complete our securitizations.
Our securitization activities are affected by a number of factors, including our loan origination volumes, changes in loan values, quality and performance during the period such loans are on our books and conditions in the securitization and credit markets generally and at the time we seek to launch and complete our securitizations.
Certain locations (especially those in specialty hazard areas) are seeing changes in availability of coverages or limited availability for stated limits (e.g., named storm, flood and other specialty coverages) and shifts to higher premiums and deductibles on all coverages, especially special form coverages like earthquake and named storm.
Certain locations (especially those in specialty hazard areas) are seeing changes in availability of coverages or limited availability for stated 26 Table of Contents limits (e.g., named storm, flood and other specialty coverages) and shifts to higher premiums and deductibles on all coverages, especially special form coverages like earthquake and named storm.
We may originate or acquire subordinate loans (including mezzanine loans secured by equity in the property), subordinate participation interests in loans (often referred to as B-Notes) and subordinate rated and/or unrated securities (including, without limitation, certain “risk retention” interests required to be retained by certain participants in securitization transactions).
From time to time, we originate and acquire subordinate loans (including mezzanine loans secured by equity in the property), subordinate participation interests in loans (often referred to as B-Notes) and subordinate rated and/or unrated securities (including, without limitation, certain “risk retention” interests required to be retained by certain participants in securitization transactions).
Our reserves for loan losses may prove inadequate. • Inflation has and may continue to stress property performance and value and thus mortgage loan performance. • Our participation in the market for mortgage loan securitizations may expose us to risks that could result in losses to us and our access to the CMBS securitization market and the timing of our securitization activities and real estate sales may greatly affect our quarterly financial results. • We may be subject to risks associated with unfunded conditional loan commitments. • Mortgages on facilities that are subject to ground leases risk the collateral reverting to the ground lessor unexpectedly during the term of the loan due to such borrower’s default under, and the resulting termination of, the ground lease. • The expense of operating and owning real property, including net leased real estate assets, may impact our cash flow and our investments in net leased properties could be adversely affected by our reliance on the net leased tenants. • The leases at the properties underlying commercial real estate loans or securities or the properties held by us may not be relet or renewed on favorable terms, or at all. • Current and future venture investments could be adversely affected by our lack of sole decision-making authority, our reliance on venture partners’ financial condition and liquidity and disputes between us and our partners. • Our investments in CMBS and other real estate-related securities are generally subject to losses. • Our determinations of fair value may have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
Our reserves for loan losses may prove inadequate. • Inflation has and may continue to stress property performance and value and thus mortgage loan performance. 16 Table of Contents • Our participation in the market for mortgage loan securitizations exposes us to risks that could result in losses to us and our access to the CMBS securitization market, and the timing of our securitization activities and real estate sales causes our quarterly financial results to fluctuate. • We are subject to risks associated with unfunded conditional loan commitments. • Mortgages on facilities that are subject to ground leases risk the collateral reverting to the ground lessor unexpectedly during the term of the loan due to such borrower’s default under, and the resulting termination of, the ground lease. • The expense of operating and owning real property, including net leased real estate assets, impacts our cash flow and our investments in net leased properties could be adversely affected by our reliance on the net leased tenants. • The leases at the properties underlying commercial real estate loans or securities or the properties held by us may not be relet or renewed on favorable terms, or at all. • Current and future venture investments could be adversely affected by our lack of sole decision-making authority, our reliance on venture partners’ financial condition and liquidity and disputes between us and our partners. • Our investments in CMBS and other real estate-related securities are generally subject to losses. • Our determinations of fair value may have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
The rise of high-profile security breaches by hackers, foreign governments, and other malicious actors has resulted in an increased risk of a security breach or IT disruption. Simultaneously, the state, federal and international regulatory environment related to information security, data collection and use, and privacy has become increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements potentially applicable to our business.
The rise of high-profile security breaches by hackers, foreign governments, and other malicious actors has resulted in an increased risk of security breaches or IT disruptions. Simultaneously, the state, federal and international regulatory environment related to information security, data collection and use, and privacy has become increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements potentially applicable to our business.
We believe that a change in any one of the following factors, among others, could adversely affect our results of operations and impair our ability to pay distributions to our shareholders: • the profitability of the assets we hold or acquire; • the allocation of assets between our REIT-qualified and non-REIT-qualified subsidiaries; • the impact of changes in interest rates on our net interest income; • the fact that anticipated operating expense levels may not prove accurate, as actual results may vary from estimates; • our ability to make profitable investments and to realize profit therefrom; • margin calls or other expenses that may reduce our cash flow; and • defaults in our asset portfolio or decreases in the value of our portfolio .
We believe that a change in any one of the following factors, among others, could adversely affect our results of operations and impair our ability to pay distributions to our shareholders: • the profitability of the assets we hold or acquire; • the allocation of assets between our REIT-qualified and non-REIT-qualified subsidiaries; • the impact of changes in interest rates on our net interest income; • the fact that anticipated operating expense levels may not prove accurate, as actual results may vary from estimates; • margin calls or other expenses that may reduce our cash flow; and • defaults in our asset portfolio or decreases in the value of our portfolio .
If securities analysts or investors focus on such comparative quarter-to-quarter performance, our stock price performance may be more volatile than if such persons compared a wider period of results of operations. We may be subject to risks associated with unfunded conditional loan commitments or other future advances, such as declining real estate values and operating performance.
If 29 Table of Contents securities analysts or investors focus on such comparative quarter-to-quarter performance, our stock price performance may be more volatile than if such persons compared a wider period of results of operations. We are subject to risks associated with unfunded conditional loan commitments or other future advances, such as declining real estate values and operating performance.
Certain statements in “Risk Factors” are forward-looking statements. See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” included elsewhere in this Annual Report. 15 Table of Contents Summary of Principal Risk Factors Our business is subject to change, risks, and uncertainties, as described herein.
Certain statements in “Risk Factors” are forward-looking statements. See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” included elsewhere in this Annual Report. Summary of Principal Risk Factors Our business is subject to change, risks, and uncertainties, as described herein.
The market value of CLO securities may be affected by, among other things, changes in the market value of the underlying loans held by the CLO, changes in the distributions on the underlying loans, defaults and recoveries on the underlying loans, capital gains and losses on the underlying loans (or foreclosure assets), prepayments on underlying loan 35 Table of Contents and the availability, prices and interest rate of underlying loans.
The market value of CLO securities may be affected by, among other things, changes in the market value of the underlying loans held by the CLO, changes in the distributions on the underlying loans, defaults and recoveries on the underlying loans, capital gains and losses on the underlying loans (or foreclosure assets), prepayments on underlying loan and the availability, prices and interest rate of underlying loans.
Risks Related to Our Indebtedness 16 Table of Contents • Our business is leveraged, which could lead to greater losses than if we were not as leveraged. • There can be no assurance that we will be able to access financing on favorable terms, or at all, and restrictive covenants and the potential need for additional collateral may limit our ability to fully pursue our business strategies. • Any credit ratings assigned to the debt securities we issue or our investments could be downgraded, which could have a material impact on our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. • We are subject to counterparty risk associated with our debt obligations and cash balances. • Our use of leverage may create a mismatch between the duration of financing, and the life of, the investments made using the proceeds of such financing, as well as between the index of our investments and the index of our leverage. • We have financed, and may in the future seek to finance, certain of our shorter-term loans via CLOs and such transactions involve significant risks, including that the sponsor of such transactions will receive distributions from the CLO only if the CLO generates enough income to first pay all the investors in senior tranches and all CLO expenses.
Risks Related to Our Indebtedness • Our business is leveraged, which could lead to greater losses than if we were not as leveraged. • There can be no assurance that we will be able to access financing on favorable terms, or at all, and restrictive covenants and the potential need for additional collateral may limit our ability to fully pursue our business strategies. • Any credit ratings assigned to the debt securities we issue or our investments could be downgraded. • We are subject to counterparty risk associated with our debt obligations and cash balances. • Our use of leverage may create a mismatch between the duration of financing, and the life of, the investments made using the proceeds of such financing, as well as between the index of our investments and the index of our leverage. • We have financed, and may in the future seek to finance, certain of our shorter-term loans via CLOs and such transactions involve significant risks, including that the sponsor of such transactions will receive distributions from the CLO only if the CLO generates enough income to first pay all the investors in senior tranches and all CLO expenses.
Declines in commercial real estate values also tend to result in reduced borrower equity, further hindering borrowers’ ability to refinance in an environment of increasingly restrictive lending standards and giving them less incentive to cure delinquencies and avoid foreclosure.
Declines in commercial real estate values also tend to result in reduced 20 Table of Contents borrower equity, further hindering borrowers’ ability to refinance in an environment of increasingly restrictive lending standards and giving them less incentive to cure delinquencies and avoid foreclosure.
A projection of an economic downturn, for example, could cause a decline in the price of lower credit quality securities because the ability of obligors of mortgage loans underlying the mortgage-backed securities to make principal and interest payments may be 27 Table of Contents impaired.
A projection of an economic downturn, for example, could cause a decline in the price of lower credit quality securities because the ability of obligors of mortgage loans underlying the mortgage-backed securities to make principal and interest payments may be impaired.
If we, as the owner, or the borrower, were to fail to meet these obligations, the applicable tenant could abate rent or terminate the applicable lease, which may result in a loss of capital 29 Table of Contents invested in, and anticipated profits from, the property.
If we, as the owner, or the borrower, were to fail to meet these obligations, the applicable tenant could abate rent or terminate the applicable lease, which may result in a loss of capital invested in, and anticipated profits from, the property.
To the extent that the SEC staff publishes new or different guidance or disagrees with our analysis with respect to any assets of our 37 Table of Contents subsidiaries we have determined to be qualifying real estate assets or real estate-related assets, we may be required to adjust our strategy accordingly.
To the extent that the SEC staff publishes new or different guidance or disagrees with our analysis with respect to any assets of our subsidiaries we have determined to be qualifying real estate assets or real estate-related assets, we may be required to adjust our strategy accordingly.
Declining real estate values may reduce the level of new mortgage and other real estate-related loan originations since borrowers often use appreciation in the value of their existing properties to support the purchase of or investment in additional properties.
Declining real estate values may reduce the level of new mortgage and other real estate-related loan originations since borrowers often use appreciation in the value of their existing properties to support the 19 Table of Contents purchase of or investment in additional properties.
Further, 19 Table of Contents declining real estate values significantly increase the likelihood that we will incur losses on our loans in the event of default because the value of our collateral may be insufficient to cover our basis in the related loan.
Further, declining real estate values significantly increase the likelihood that we will incur losses on our loans in the event of default because the value of our collateral may be insufficient to cover our basis in the related loan.
Risks Related to Our Class A Common Stock The market price and trading volume of our Class A common stock may be volatile, which could result in rapid and substantial losses for our shareholders. The market price of our Class A common stock may be highly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations.
Risks Related to Our Class A Common Stock The market price and trading volume of our Class A common stock can be volatile, which could result in rapid and substantial losses for our shareholders. The market price of our Class A common stock can be highly volatile and is subject to wide fluctuations.
These laws and regulations are complex, compliance with them may be costly and 40 Table of Contents time consuming, and our failure to comply with any of these laws and regulations could subject us to lawsuits or government actions and damage our reputation.
These laws and regulations are complex, compliance with them may be costly and time consuming, and our failure to comply with any of these laws and regulations could subject us to lawsuits or government actions and damage our reputation.
Such venture investments may involve risks not otherwise present when we originate or acquire investments without partners, including the following: • we may not have exclusive control over the investment or the venture, which may prevent us from taking actions that are in our best interest; • fraud or other misconduct by our partners; • venture agreements often restrict the transfer of a partner’s interest or may otherwise restrict our ability to sell the interest when we desire and/or on advantageous terms; • we may rely upon our venture partners to manage the day-to-day operations of the venture and underlying loans or assets, as well as to prepare financial information for the venture and any failure to perform these obligations may have a negative impact our performance and results of operations; • our partner may experience a change of control, which could result in new management of our partner with less experience or conflicting interests to ours and be disruptive to our business; • venture agreements often restrict the transfer of a partner’s interest or may otherwise restrict our ability to sell the interest when we desire and/or on advantageous terms; • any future venture agreements may contain buy-sell provisions pursuant to which one partner may initiate procedures requiring the other partner to choose between buying the other partner’s interest or selling its interest to that partner; • we may not be in a position to exercise sole decision-making authority regarding the investment or venture, which could create the potential risk of creating impasses on decisions, such as with respect to acquisitions or dispositions; • a partner may, at any time, have economic or business interests or goals that are, or that may become, inconsistent with our business interests or goals; • a partner may be in a position to take action contrary to our instructions, requests, policies or objectives, including our policy with respect to maintaining our qualification as a REIT and our exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act; • a partner may fail to fund its share of required capital contributions or may become bankrupt, which may mean that we and any other remaining partners generally would remain liable for the venture’s liabilities; • our relationships with our partners are contractual in nature and may be terminated or dissolved under the terms of the applicable venture agreements and, in such event, we may not continue to own or operate the interests or investments underlying such relationship or may need to purchase such interests or investments at a premium to the market price to continue ownership; 30 Table of Contents • disputes between us and a partner may result in litigation or arbitration that could increase our expenses and prevent our officers and directors from focusing their time and efforts on our business and could result in subjecting the investments owned by the venture to additional risk; or • we may, in certain circumstances, be liable for the actions of a partner, and the activities of a partner could adversely affect our ability to continue to qualify as a REIT or maintain our exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act, even though we do not control the venture.
Such venture investments may involve risks not otherwise present when we originate or acquire investments without partners, including the following: • we may not have exclusive control over the investment or the venture, which may prevent us from taking actions that are in our best interest; • a venture partner may engage in fraud or other misconduct; • a venture agreement may restrict the transfer of a partner’s interest or otherwise restrict our ability to sell the interest when we desire or on advantageous terms; • we may rely upon a venture partner to manage day-to-day operations of the venture and underlying loans or assets, as well as to prepare financial information for the venture, and any failure to perform these obligations may have a negative impact on our performance and results of operations; • a partner may experience a change of control, which could result in new management with less experience or conflicting interests to ours and be disruptive to our business; • a venture agreement may contain provisions that limit our exit options or require consent from other parties to transfer our interest; • a venture agreement may contain buy-sell provisions pursuant to which one partner may initiate procedures requiring the other partner to choose between buying the other partner’s interest or selling its interest to that partner; • we may not be in a position to exercise sole decision-making authority regarding the investment or venture, which could create impasses on decisions, such as with respect to acquisitions or dispositions; • a partner may, at any time, have economic or business interests or goals that are, or may become, inconsistent with our business interests or goals; • a partner may be in a position to take action contrary to our instructions, requests, policies or objectives, including our policy with respect to maintaining our qualification as a REIT and our exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act; • a partner may fail to fund its share of required capital contributions or may become bankrupt, which may mean that we and any other remaining partners generally would remain liable for the venture’s liabilities; • our relationship with a partner is contractual in nature and may be terminated or dissolved under the terms of the applicable venture agreement and, in such event, we may not continue to own or operate the interests or investments underlying such relationship or may need to purchase such interests or investments at a premium to the market price to continue ownership; • a dispute with a partner may result in litigation or arbitration that could increase our expenses, prevent our officers and directors from focusing their time and efforts on our business, and subject the investments owned by the venture to additional risk; or 31 Table of Contents • we may, in certain circumstances, be liable for the actions of a partner, and the activities of a partner could adversely affect our ability to continue to qualify as a REIT or maintain our exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act, even though we do not control the venture.
Risks Related to Our Portfolio • The repayment of mortgage loans may be limited by factors such as: federal, state and local laws, including bankruptcy, insolvency and other debtor and tenant relief laws; their non-recourse and potentially illiquid nature; our evaluation of the creditworthiness of borrowers and the underlying properties, including environmental issues and a property’s income potential; our ability to manage credit risk and modify or restructure non-performing loans; the sufficiency of reserves; subordination; the lack of full control as a participant or co-lender; and insurance coverage. • Certain balance sheet investments, such as transitional loans, mezzanine loans, B-Notes and other subordinate positions, participations and preferred equity may be more illiquid and involve a greater risk of loss. • Provisions for loan losses are difficult to estimate.
Risks Related to Our Portfolio • The repayment of mortgage loans are limited by factors such as: federal, state and local laws, including bankruptcy, insolvency and other debtor and tenant relief laws; their non-recourse and potentially illiquid nature; our evaluation of the creditworthiness of borrowers and the underlying properties, including environmental issues and a property’s income potential; our ability to manage credit risk and modify or restructure non-performing loans; the sufficiency of reserves; subordination; the lack of full control as a participant or co-lender; and insurance coverage. • Properties acquired through foreclosure, transitional loans, mezzanine loans, B-Notes and other subordinate positions, participations and preferred equity are more illiquid and involve a greater risk of loss. • Provisions for loan losses are difficult to estimate.
Refer to Note 15, Income Taxes, to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, included elsewhere in this Annual Report, for additional information. Changes to U.S. federal income tax laws could materially and adversely affect us and our shareholders.
Refer to Note 14, Income Taxes , to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, included elsewhere in this Annual Report, for additional information. Changes to U.S. federal income tax laws could materially and adversely affect us and our shareholders.
We rely on the efficacy of our cybersecurity/IT policies, systems and processes developed and managed by our Cybersecurity Team in order to protect our technology assets from IT outages, cybersecurity incidents and intrusions. The secure operation of our IT networks and systems and the proper processing and maintenance of this information are critical to our business operations.
We rely on the efficacy of our cybersecurity/IT policies, systems and processes developed and managed by our Cybersecurity Team to protect our technology assets from IT outages, cybersecurity incidents and intrusions. The secure operation of our IT networks and systems and the proper processing and maintenance of this information is critical to our business operations.
The risks factors that the Company considers material include, but are not limited to, the following: Risks Related to Our Operations • Our success depends upon hiring and retaining qualified loan originators and maintaining strategic business alliances. • The allocation of capital among our business lines may vary, which may adversely affect our financial performance. • We operate using financial models and according to proprietary underwriting criteria in a highly competitive market for lending and other investment opportunities, which may limit our ability to originate or acquire desirable loans and other investments in our target assets and/or our ability to yield a certain return on our investments.
The risks factors that the Company considers material include, but are not limited to, the following: Risks Related to Our Operations • Our success depends upon hiring and retaining qualified personnel and maintaining strategic business alliances. • The allocation of capital among our business segments varies, which may adversely affect our financial performance. • We operate using financial models and according to proprietary underwriting criteria in a highly competitive market for lending and other investment opportunities, which may limit our ability to originate or acquire desirable loans and other investments in our target assets and/or our ability to finance and yield a certain return on our investments.
The U.S. federal income tax rules dealing with REITs are constantly under review by persons involved in the legislative process, the IRS and the U.S. Treasury Department, which results in statutory changes as well as frequent revisions 48 Table of Contents to regulations and interpretations.
The U.S. federal income tax rules dealing with REITs are constantly under review by persons involved in the legislative process, the IRS and the U.S. Treasury Department, which results in statutory changes as well as frequent revisions to regulations and interpretations.
Many competitors are substantially larger and have considerably greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources than we do. Unlike Ladder, certain of our competitors may not be subject to the operating constraints associated with 18 Table of Contents REIT tax compliance or maintenance of an exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act.
Many competitors are substantially larger and have considerably greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources than we do. Unlike Ladder, certain of our competitors are not subject to the operating constraints associated with REIT tax compliance or maintenance of an exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act.
In addition, we may transact in derivative instruments that are neither presently contemplated nor currently available, but which may be developed in the future, to the extent such opportunities are both consistent with our investment objectives and legally permissible.
In addition, we may transact in derivative instruments that are neither presently contemplated nor currently available, but which may be developed in the future, to the extent such opportunities are both consistent with our investment objectives and legally 41 Table of Contents permissible.
Our compliance with the annual REIT income and quarterly asset requirements also depends upon our ability to successfully manage the composition of our income and assets on an ongoing basis.
Our compliance with 43 Table of Contents the annual REIT income and quarterly asset requirements also depends upon our ability to successfully manage the composition of our income and assets on an ongoing basis.
Some of our investments may be rated by one or more of Moody’s, Fitch, Standard & Poor’s, Realpoint, Dominion Bond Rating Service, Morningstar Credit Ratings, Kroll Bond Ratings or other credit rating agencies.
Some of our investments are rated by one or more of Moody’s, Fitch, Standard & Poor’s, Realpoint, Dominion Bond Rating Service, Morningstar Credit Ratings, Kroll Bond Ratings or other credit rating agencies.
Where a borrower has failed to meet its obligations, we could determine that we need to modify the loan or advance funds to protect the collateral, which could result in our funding more money than we originally anticipated in order to maximize the value of our investment, even though there is no assurance additional funding would be the best course of action.
Where a borrower has failed to meet its obligations, we could determine that we need to modify the loan or advance funds to protect the collateral, which could result in our funding more money than we originally anticipated in order to maximize the value of our investment, even though there is no assurance additional funding would achieve the desired result.
Even if a mortgage loan is recourse to the borrower (or if a non-recourse carve-out to the borrower applies), in many cases, the borrower’s assets are limited primarily to 22 Table of Contents its interest in the related mortgaged property.
Even if a mortgage loan is recourse to the borrower (or if a non-recourse carve-out to the borrower applies), in many cases, the borrower’s assets are limited primarily to its interest in the related mortgaged property.
While we believe that we have structured our securitizations such that the above taxes would not apply to our shareholders with respect to taxable mortgage pools held by our subsidiary REIT, our subsidiary REIT is in part owned by our TRS, which will pay corporate level tax on any income that it may be allocated from the subsidiary REIT.
While we intend to structure prospective securitizations such that the above taxes would not apply to our shareholders with respect to taxable mortgage pools held by our subsidiary REIT, our subsidiary REIT is in part owned by our TRS, which would pay corporate level tax on any income that it may be allocated from the subsidiary REIT.
Such concentration in one economic sector may increase the volatility of our returns and may also expose us to the risk of economic downturns in this sector to a greater extent than if our portfolio also included other sectors of the economy.
Such concentration in one economic sector increases the volatility of our returns and exposes us to the risk of economic downturns in this sector to a greater extent than if our portfolio also included other sectors of the economy.
NOI of an income-producing property can be affected by many factors, including, but not limited to: • the ongoing need for capital improvements, particularly in older structures; • changes in general or local market conditions; • increases in property taxes and other operating expenses; • changes in tenant mix and performance, the occupancy or rental rates of the property or, for a property that requires new leasing activity, a failure to lease the property in accordance with the projected leasing schedule; • competition from comparable property types or properties; • unskilled or inexperienced property management; • limited availability of mortgage funds or fluctuations in interest rates which may render the sale and refinancing of a property difficult; • development projects that experience cost overruns or otherwise fail to perform as projected including, without limitation, failure to complete planned renovations, repairs, or construction; • unanticipated increases in real estate taxes and other operating expenses; • challenges to the owner’s claim of title to the real property; • environmental considerations, including liability for testing, monitoring and remediation; • changes in zoning laws, rent control laws and other similar legal restrictions on property ownership and operation; • other governmental rules and policies including those associated with a transition to a low-carbon economy; • community health issues, including, without limitation, epidemics and pandemics; • unanticipated structural defects or costliness of maintaining the property; • casualty and condemnation; • uninsured or underinsured losses, such as possible acts of theft, terrorism, social unrest or civil disturbances; • a decline in the operational performance of a facility on the real property (such facilities may include multifamily rental facilities, office properties, retail facilities, hospitality facilities, healthcare-related facilities, industrial facilities, warehouse facilities, restaurants, mobile home facilities, recreational or resort facilities, parking lot facilities or other facilities); and • large-scale fire, earthquake or severe weather-related damage to, or the effect of climate change on, the property and/or its operations.
NOI of an income-producing property can be affected by many factors, including, but not limited to: • the ongoing need for capital improvements, particularly in older structures; • changes in general or local market conditions; • increases in property taxes and other operating expenses; • changes in tenant mix and performance, the occupancy or rental rates of the property or, for a property that requires new leasing activity, a failure to lease the property in accordance with the projected leasing schedule; • competition from comparable property types or properties; • unskilled or inexperienced property management; • limited availability of mortgage funds or fluctuations in interest rates which may render the sale and refinancing of a property difficult; • development projects that experience cost overruns or otherwise fail to perform as projected including, without limitation, failure to complete planned renovations, repairs, or construction; • challenges to the owner’s claim of title to the real property; • environmental considerations, including liability for testing, monitoring and remediation; • changes in zoning laws, rent control laws and other similar legal restrictions on property ownership and operation; • other governmental rules and policies; • community health issues, including, without limitation, epidemics and pandemics; • unanticipated structural defects or costliness of maintaining the property; • casualty and condemnation; 23 Table of Contents • uninsured or underinsured losses, such as possible acts of theft, terrorism, social unrest or civil disturbances; • a decline in the operational performance of a facility on the real property (such facilities may include multifamily rental facilities, office properties, retail facilities, hospitality facilities, healthcare-related facilities, industrial facilities, warehouse facilities, restaurants, mobile home facilities, recreational or resort facilities, parking lot facilities or other facilities); • large-scale fire, earthquake, wildfires, drought, or other natural disaster, or severe weather-related damage to the property and/or its operations; and • rising utility costs, increased insurance premiums, regulatory environmental requirements, or the potential liability relating to environmental matters that impact the value of properties we may acquire or the properties underlying our investments.
Risks Related to Our Operations The allocation of capital among our business lines may vary, which may adversely affect our financial performance and liquidity.
Risks Related to Our Operations The allocation of capital among our business segments varies, which may adversely affect our financial performance and liquidity.
Risks Related to Our Class A Common Stock • The price and trading volume of our Class A common stock may be volatile, which could result in rapid and substantial losses for our shareholders. • Our charter contains REIT-related restrictions on the ownership of, and ability to, transfer our Class A common stock. • Anti-takeover provisions in our charter documents and Delaware law could delay or prevent a change in control.
Risks Related to Our Class A Common Stock • The price and trading volume of our Class A common stock can be volatile, which has and could in the future result in shareholder losses. • Our charter contains REIT-related restrictions on the ownership of, and ability to, transfer our Class A common stock. • Anti-takeover provisions in our charter documents and Delaware law could delay or prevent a change in control.
In addition, such subsidiary REIT is required to satisfy, on a stand-alone basis, the REIT asset, income, organizational, distribution, shareholder ownership and other requirements described above, and if it were to fail to qualify as a REIT, then: (i) our subsidiary REIT would face adverse tax consequences similar to those described above with respect to our qualification as a REIT; and (ii) such failure could have an adverse effect on our ability to comply with the REIT income and asset tests and thus could impair our ability to qualify as a REIT unless we could avail ourselves of certain relief provisions.
In addition, such subsidiary REIT is required to satisfy, on a stand-alone basis, the REIT asset, income, organizational, distribution, shareholder ownership and other requirements described above, and if it were to fail to qualify as a REIT, then: (i) our subsidiary REIT would face adverse tax consequences similar to those described above with respect to our qualification as a REIT; and (ii) such failure could have an adverse effect on our ability to comply with the REIT income and asset tests and thus could impair our ability to qualify as a REIT unless we could avail ourselves of certain relief provisions. 46 Table of Contents We may be required to report taxable income for certain investments in excess of the economic income we ultimately realize from them.
In addition, in general, no more than 5% of the value of our assets (other than government securities and qualified real estate assets) can consist of the securities of any one issuer, and no more than 20% of the value of our total assets can be represented by securities of one or more TRSs.
In addition, in general, no more than 5% of the value of our assets (other than government securities, securities of a TRS, and qualified real estate assets) can consist of the securities of any one issuer, and no more than 20% (25% for tax years after 2025) of the value of our total assets can be represented by securities of one or more TRSs.
Such requirements relate to, among other things, assets under management, fiduciary duties to advisory clients, an effective compliance program, conflicts of interest, recordkeeping and reporting requirements, disclosure requirements, limitations on agency cross and principal transactions between an advisor and advisory clients and general anti-fraud prohibitions. LCAM currently provides investment advisory services solely to Ladder-sponsored CLO Issuers.
Such requirements relate to, among other things, assets under management, fiduciary duties to advisory clients, an effective compliance program, conflicts of interest, recordkeeping and reporting requirements, disclosure requirements, limitations on agency cross and principal transactions between an advisor and advisory clients and general anti-fraud prohibitions.
If we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 applicable to us in a timely manner, or if material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting are identified, the market price of our Class A common stock could decline and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the SEC or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources.
If we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 applicable to us in a timely manner, or if material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting are identified, the market price of our Class A common stock could decline and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the SEC or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources. 50 Table of Contents Accounting and tax rules for certain of our transactions are highly complex and involve significant judgment and assumptions.
We are required to report such original issue discount based on a constant yield method and are taxed based on the assumption that all future projected payments due on such mortgage-backed securities will be made.
Moreover, some of the mortgage-backed securities that we acquire may have been issued with original issue discount. We are required to report such original issue discount based on a constant yield method and are taxed based on the assumption that all future projected payments due on such mortgage-backed securities will be made.
Our access to the CMBS securitization market and the timing of our securitization and real estate sale activities may greatly affect our quarterly financial results.
Our access to the CMBS securitization market and the timing of our securitization and real estate sale activities causes our quarterly financial results to fluctuate.
In addition, we would be subject to a non-deductible 4% excise tax if the actual amount distributed to our shareholders in a calendar year is less than a minimum amount specified under U.S. federal tax laws.
In addition, we would be subject to a non-deductible 4% excise tax if the actual amount distributed to our shareholders in a calendar year is less than a minimum amount specified under U.S. federal tax laws. We intend to make distributions to our shareholders to comply with the REIT qualification requirements of the Code.