Biggest changeRefer to "Item 1—WMC Acquisition" and the section entitled "WMC Acquisition" in Note 1 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for further information related to the Merger. 53 2023 Executive summary Financial Highlights • $10.46 Book Value per share and $10.20 Adjusted Book Value per share; • $1.68 of Net Income/(Loss) Available to Common Stockholders per diluted common share and $0.39 of Earnings Available for Distribution ("EAD") per diluted common share; ◦ Refer to the "Earnings Available for Distribution" section below for further details related to our reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) Available to Common Stockholders to EAD; • 10.5x GAAP Leverage Ratio and 1.5x Economic Leverage Ratio; and • $0.72 dividend per common share declared during the year.
Biggest changeRefer to "Item 1—WMC Acquisition" and the section entitled "WMC Acquisition" in Note 1 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for further information related to the Merger. 50 2024 Executive Summary Financial Highlights • $10.64 Book Value per share; ◦ Book value per common share is calculated using stockholders’ equity less the liquidation preference of $228.0 million on our issued and outstanding preferred stock divided by all outstanding common shares as of quarter-end; • $1.23 of Net Income/(Loss) Available to Common Stockholders per diluted common share and $0.76 of Earnings Available for Distribution ("EAD") per diluted common share for the year ended December 31, 2024; ◦ Refer to the "Earnings Available for Distribution" section below for further details related to our reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) Available to Common Stockholders to EAD; • 11.6x GAAP Leverage Ratio and 1.4x Economic Leverage Ratio; • $0.75 dividend per common share declared during the year; and ◦ Increased our quarterly dividend per common share from $0.18 per common share in the first quarter 2024 to $0.19 per common share beginning the second quarter 2024, which represented a 5.6% increase.
Following the execution of the Third Amendment to our management agreement in November 2021 related to the incentive fee, our compensation committee no longer expects to continue its historical practice of making periodic equity grants to the Manager pursuant to the 2021 Manager Equity Incentive Plan.
Following the execution of the Third Amendment to our management agreement in November 2021 related to the incentive fee, our compensation committee no longer expects to continue its historical practice of making periodic equity grants to the Manager pursuant to the 2021 Manager Plan.
As further discussed in Note 2 of the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements," differences between previously estimated cash flows and current actual and anticipated cash flows caused by changes to prepayment or other assumptions are adjusted retrospectively through a "catch up" adjustment for the impact of the cumulative change in the effective yield through the reporting date for securities accounted for under ASC 320-10 (generally, Agency RMBS) or adjusted prospectively through an 78 adjustment of the yield over the remaining life of the investment for securities accounted for under ASC 325-40 and mortgage loans accounted for under ASC 310-10.
As further discussed in Note 2 of the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements," differences between previously estimated cash flows and current actual and anticipated cash flows caused by changes to prepayment or other assumptions are adjusted retrospectively through a "catch up" adjustment for the impact of the cumulative change in the effective yield through the reporting date for securities accounted for under ASC 320-10 (generally, Agency RMBS) or adjusted prospectively through an adjustment of the yield over the remaining life of the investment for securities accounted for under ASC 325-40 and mortgage loans accounted for under ASC 310-10.
For example, these restrictions limit our and our subsidiaries’ ability to invest directly in Agency RMBS mortgage-related securities that represent less than the entire ownership in a pool of mortgage loans or debt and equity tranches of Non-Agency RMBS (in each case to the extent such interest are not retained interest in securitizations consisting of mortgage loans that were owned by us and such securitizations were not sponsored by us in order to obtain financing to acquire additional mortgage loans), certain real estate companies and assets not related to real estate.
For example, these restrictions limit our and our subsidiaries’ ability to invest directly in Agency RMBS that represent less than the entire ownership in a pool of mortgage loans or debt and equity tranches of Non-Agency RMBS (in each case to the extent such interest are not retained interest in securitizations consisting of mortgage loans that were owned by us and such securitizations were not sponsored by us in order to obtain financing to acquire additional mortgage loans), certain real estate companies and assets not related to real estate.
The following is a description of our critical accounting estimates that involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty and have had or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations: 77 Valuation of financial instruments We have elected the fair value option for the vast majority of our assets and liabilities for which such election is permitted, as provided for under ASC 825, Financial Instruments ("ASC 825").
The following is a description of our critical accounting estimates that involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty and have had or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations: Valuation of financial instruments We have elected the fair value option for the vast majority of our assets and liabilities for which such election is permitted, as provided for under ASC 825, Financial Instruments ("ASC 825").
Our investment portfolio also includes commercial loans, commercial-mortgage backed securities ("CMBS") and other securities (collectively, the "Legacy WMC Commercial Investments") that were acquired in the WMC acquisition. We expect to either hold the Legacy WMC Commercial Investments until maturity or opportunistically exit these investments. We were incorporated in Maryland on March 1, 2011 and commenced operations in July 2011.
Our investment portfolio also includes commercial loans and commercial-mortgage backed securities ("CMBS") (collectively, the "Legacy WMC Commercial Investments") that were acquired in the WMC acquisition. We expect to either hold the Legacy WMC Commercial Investments until maturity or opportunistically exit these investments. We were incorporated in Maryland on March 1, 2011 and commenced operations in July 2011.
Our presentation of EAD may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures of other companies, who may use different calculations. This non-GAAP measure should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders or Net income/(loss) per diluted common share calculated in accordance with GAAP.
Our presentation of EAD may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures of other companies, who may use different calculations. This non-GAAP measure should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders or Earnings/(loss) per diluted common share calculated in accordance with GAAP.
We define GAAP leverage as the sum of (1) GAAP Securitized debt, at fair value, (2) our GAAP Financing arrangements, net of any restricted cash posted on such financing arrangements, (3) Convertible senior unsecured notes, and (4) the amount payable on purchases that have not yet settled less the financing remaining on sales that have not yet settled.
We define GAAP leverage as the sum of (1) GAAP Securitized debt, at fair value, (2) our GAAP Financing arrangements, net of any restricted cash posted on such financing arrangements, (3) Senior unsecured notes, and (4) the amount payable on purchases that have not yet settled less the financing remaining on sales that have not yet settled.
For additional information related to these recent accounting pronouncements and their impact on our consolidated financial statements, see Note 2 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements." 79 REIT Qualification We have elected to be treated as a REIT under Sections 856 through 859 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").
For additional information related to these recent accounting pronouncements and their impact on our consolidated financial statements, see Note 2 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements." REIT Qualification We have elected to be treated as a REIT under Sections 856 through 859 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").
Accordingly, our failure to qualify as a REIT could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and our ability to pay distributions, if any, to our stockholders. Even if we qualify for taxation as a REIT, we may be subject to some U.S. federal, state and local taxes on our income or property.
Accordingly, our failure to qualify as a REIT could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and our ability to pay distributions, if any, to our stockholders. Even if we qualify for taxation as a REIT, we may be subject to some U.S. federal, state and local taxes on 75 our income or property.
For more information on the WMC acquisition, refer to "Item 1—WMC Acquisition" and the section entitled "WMC Acquisition" in Note 1 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements." 62 Net interest margin and leverage ratio Net interest margin and leverage ratio are metrics that management believes should be considered when evaluating the performance of our investment portfolio.
For more information on the WMC acquisition, refer to "Item 1—WMC Acquisition" and the section entitled "WMC Acquisition" in Note 1 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements." Net interest margin and leverage ratio Net interest margin and leverage ratio are metrics that management believes should be considered when evaluating the performance of our investment portfolio.
No share repurchases under the Preferred Repurchase Program have been made since its authorization. Shares of stock repurchased by us under any repurchase program, if any, will be cancelled and, until reissued by us, will be deemed to be authorized but unissued shares of its stock as required by Maryland law.
No share repurchases under the Preferred Repurchase Program have been made since its authorization. Shares of stock repurchased by us under any repurchase program, if any, will be cancelled and, until reissued by us, will be deemed to be authorized but unissued shares of our stock as required by Maryland law.
Our risks associated with our involvement with these VIEs are limited to our risks and rights as a holder of the security we have retained as well as certain risks which may occur when we act as either the sponsor and/or depositor of and the seller to the securitization entities.
Our risks associated with our involvement with these VIEs are limited to 74 our risks and rights as a holder of the security we have retained as well as certain risks which may occur when we act as either the sponsor and/or depositor of and the seller to the securitization entities.
Our leverage has primarily been in the form of repurchase agreements and similar financing arrangements (which we refer to collectively as financing arrangements), and securitized debt. Repurchase agreements involve the sale and a simultaneous agreement to repurchase the transferred assets or similar assets at a future date.
Our leverage has primarily been in the form of repurchase agreements and similar financing arrangements (which we refer to collectively as financing arrangements), and securitized debt. 65 Repurchase agreements involve the sale and a simultaneous agreement to repurchase the transferred assets or similar assets at a future date.
Differences between taxable income and GAAP net income include (i) unrealized gains and losses associated with investment and derivative portfolios which are marked-to-market in current income for GAAP purposes, but excluded from taxable income until realized or settled, (ii) temporary differences related to amortization of premiums and discounts paid on investments, (iii) the timing and amount of deductions related to stock-based compensation, (iv) temporary differences related to the recognition of realized gains and losses on sold investments and certain terminated derivatives, (v) taxes, (vi) methods of depreciation and (vii) differences between GAAP income or losses in our TRSs’ and taxable income resulting from dividend distributions to the REIT from our TRSs'.
Differences between taxable income and GAAP net income include (i) unrealized gains and losses associated with investment and derivative portfolios which are marked-to-market in current income for GAAP purposes, but excluded from taxable income until realized or settled, (ii) temporary differences related to amortization of premiums and discounts paid on investments, (iii) the timing and amount of deductions related to stock-based compensation, (iv) temporary differences related to the recognition of realized gains and losses on sold investments and certain terminated derivatives, (v) taxes, (vi) methods of depreciation, and (vii) differences between GAAP income or losses in our TRSs and taxable income resulting from dividend distributions to the REIT from our TRSs.
On February 22, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program (the "Preferred Repurchase Program") pursuant to which our Board of Directors granted a repurchase authorization to acquire shares of our Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, and Series C Preferred Stock having an aggregate value of up to $20.0 million.
On February 22, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program (the "Preferred Repurchase Program") pursuant to which our Board of Directors granted a repurchase authorization to acquire shares of our Series A Preferred Stock, 69 Series B Preferred Stock, and Series C Preferred Stock having an aggregate value of up to $20.0 million.
As a result, in reacting to market conditions and taking into account a variety of other factors, including liquidity, duration, and interest rate expectations, the mix of our assets changes over time as we deploy capital.
As a result, in reacting to market conditions and taking into account a variety of 59 other factors, including liquidity, duration, and interest rate expectations, the mix of our assets changes over time as we deploy capital.
Critical accounting policies and estimates Our most critical accounting policies include (i) Valuation of financial instruments, (ii) Accounting for loans, (iii) Accounting for real estate securities, (iv) Interest income recognition, (v) Financing arrangements, (vi) Investment consolidation, and (vii) Accounting for business combinations.
Our most critical accounting policies include (i) Valuation of financial instruments, (ii) Accounting for loans, (iii) Accounting for real estate securities, (iv) Interest income recognition, (v) Financing arrangements, (vi) Investment consolidation, and (vii) Accounting for business combinations.
See below for further terms used when describing our investment portfolio. • Our "Investment portfolio" includes our Residential Investments, Agency RMBS, inclusive of TBAs, and Legacy WMC Commercial Investments. • Our "Residential Investments" refer to our residential mortgage loans and Non-Agency RMBS. ◦ "Residential mortgage loans" or "Loans" refer to our Non-Agency Loans, Agency-Eligible Loans, and Re/Non-Performing Loans (exclusive of retained tranches from unconsolidated securitizations) and Land Related Financing. ◦ "Non-Agency RMBS" refer to the retained tranches from unconsolidated securitizations of Non-Agency Loans and Re/Non-Performing Loans issued under the GCAT shelf, as well as Non-Agency RMBS issued by third-parties. • "Real estate securities" refers to our Non-Agency RMBS and Agency RMBS, inclusive of TBAs, as well as Legacy WMC CMBS and Other Securities that were acquired in the WMC acquisition. • Our "Legacy WMC Commercial Investments" refer to the commercial loans and CMBS that we acquired in the WMC acquisition.
See below for further terms used when describing our investment portfolio. • Our "Investment portfolio" includes our Residential Investments, Agency RMBS, inclusive of TBAs, and Legacy WMC Commercial Investments. • Our "Residential Investments" refer to our residential mortgage loans and Non-Agency RMBS. ◦ "Residential mortgage loans" or "Loans" refer to our Non-Agency Loans, Agency-Eligible Loans, Home Equity Loans, and Re/Non-Performing Loans (exclusive of retained tranches from unconsolidated securitizations) and Land Related Financing. ◦ "Non-Agency RMBS" refer to the retained tranches from unconsolidated securitizations of Non-Agency Loans and Re/Non-Performing Loans issued under the GCAT shelf, as well as Non-Agency RMBS issued by third-parties. • "Real estate securities" refers to our Non-Agency RMBS and Agency RMBS, inclusive of TBAs, as well as Legacy WMC CMBS and Other Securities that were acquired in the WMC acquisition. • Our "Legacy WMC Commercial Investments" refer to the commercial loans and CMBS that we acquired in the WMC acquisition.
Before we pay any dividend, whether for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise, we must first meet both our operating requirements and debt service on our financing arrangements and other debt payable.
Before we pay any dividend, whether for U.S. 67 federal income tax purposes or otherwise, we must first meet both our operating requirements and debt service on our financing arrangements and other debt payable.
Both the 40% Test and the requirements of the Section 3(c)(5)(C) exclusion limit the types of businesses 80 in which we may engage and the types of assets we may hold, as well as the timing of sales and purchases of assets.
Both the 40% Test and the requirements of the Section 3(c)(5)(C) exclusion limit the types of businesses in which we may engage and the types of assets we may hold, as well as the timing of sales and purchases of assets.
Although our estimates contemplate conditions as of December 31, 2023 and how we expect them to change in the future, it is reasonably possible that actual conditions could be different than anticipated in arriving at those estimates, which could materially affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the periods presented.
Although our estimates contemplate conditions as of December 31, 2024 and how we expect them to change in the future, it is reasonably possible that actual conditions could be different than anticipated in arriving at those estimates, which could materially affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the periods presented.
Refer to Note 5 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for additional information on our assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value at December 31, 2023, including the significant inputs used to estimate their fair values and the impact the changes in their fair values had to our financial condition and results of operations.
Refer to Note 5 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for additional information on our assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value at December 31, 2024, including the significant inputs used to estimate their fair values and the impact the changes in their fair values had to our financial condition and results of operations.
Repurchase agreements typically have a term of up to one year for loans and a term of 30 to 90 days for securities. Repurchase agreements are generally mark-to-market with respect to margin calls and recourse to us. We had outstanding financing arrangements with seven and six counterparties as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Repurchase agreements typically have a term of up to one year for loans and a term of 30 to 90 days for securities. Repurchase agreements are generally mark-to-market with respect to margin calls and recourse to us. We had outstanding financing arrangements with six and seven counterparties as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, no event of termination of the management agreement had occurred. Expense Reimbursement Our Manager uses the proceeds from its management fee in part to pay compensation to its officers and personnel, who, notwithstanding that certain of them also are our officers, receive no compensation directly from us.
As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, no event of termination of the management agreement had occurred. Expense Reimbursement Our Manager uses the proceeds from its management fee in part to pay compensation to its officers and personnel, who, notwithstanding that certain of them also are our officers, receive no compensation directly from us.
(d) The leverage ratio on each asset class and on our investment portfolio represents Economic Leverage as defined below in the "Financing Activities" section and is calculated by dividing each investment type's total recourse financing arrangements less any cash posted as collateral by its equity invested inclusive of any cash collateral posted on financing arrangements.
(e) The leverage ratio on each asset class and on our investment portfolio represents Economic Leverage as defined below in the "Financing Activities" section and is calculated by dividing each investment type's total recourse financing arrangements less any cash posted as collateral by its equity invested inclusive of any cash collateral posted on financing arrangements.
For additional information on our commitments as of December 31, 2023, refer to Note 12 of the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements." We do not expect these commitments, taken as a whole, to be significant to, or to have a material impact on, our overall liquidity or capital resources or our operations.
For additional information on our commitments as of December 31, 2024, refer to Note 12 of the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements." We do not expect these commitments, taken as a whole, to be significant to, or to have a material impact on, our overall liquidity or capital resources or our operations.
We are required to reimburse our Manager or its affiliates for operating expenses incurred by our Manager or its affiliates on our behalf associated with our investment portfolio. The following table presents a summary of our investment related expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands).
We are required to reimburse our Manager or its affiliates for operating expenses incurred by our Manager or its affiliates on our behalf associated with our investment portfolio. The following table presents a summary of our investment related expenses for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands).
Stockholders’ Equity, for purposes of calculating the management fee, could be greater or less than the amount of stockholders’ equity shown on our financial statements. The below table details the management fees incurred during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands).
Stockholders’ Equity, for purposes of calculating the management fee, could be greater or less than the amount of stockholders’ equity shown on our financial statements. The below table details the management fees incurred during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands).
For financial instruments that are traded in an "active market," the best measure of fair value is the quoted market price. However, many of our financial instruments are not traded in an active market. Therefore, our Manger generally uses third-party valuations when available.
For financial instruments that are traded in an "active market," the best measure of fair value is the quoted market price. However, many of our financial instruments are not traded in an active market. Therefore, our Manager generally uses third-party valuations when available.
Our reimbursement obligation is not subject to any dollar limitation; however, reimbursements are subject to an annual budget process which combines guidelines from the management agreement with oversight by our Board of Directors and discussions with our Manager. The below table details the expense reimbursement incurred during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands).
Our reimbursement obligation is not subject to any dollar limitation; however, reimbursements are subject to an annual budget process which combines guidelines from the management agreement with oversight by our Board of Directors and discussions with our Manager. 71 The below table details the expense reimbursement incurred during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands).
Currently, our Residential Investments primarily consist of newly originated Non-Agency Loans and Agency-Eligible Loans, which we refer to as our target assets. In addition, we may also invest in other types of residential mortgage loans and other mortgage related assets.
Currently, our Residential Investments primarily consist of newly originated Non-Agency Loans, Agency-Eligible Loans and Home Equity Loans, which we refer to as our target assets. In addition, we may also invest in other types of residential mortgage loans and other mortgage related assets.
Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates represents our share of earnings and profits of investments held within affiliated entities. Substantially all of these investments are comprised of real estate securities, loans, and our investment in AG Arc which holds our investment in Arc Home.
Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates represents our share of earnings and profits of investments held within affiliated entities. These investments are comprised of real estate securities, loans, and our investment in AG Arc which holds our investment in Arc Home.
(3) Refer to the table below for additional detail on the earnings/(loss) generated from our investment in AG Arc. 60 The below table further disaggregates our "Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates" line item on our consolidated statements of operations (in thousands).
(3) Refer to the table below for additional detail on the earnings/(loss) generated from our investment in AG Arc. 57 The below table further disaggregates our "Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates" line item on our consolidated statements of operations (in thousands).
A reconciliation of "Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders" to EAD for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 is set forth below (in thousands, except per share data).
A reconciliation of "Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders" to EAD for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 is set forth below (in thousands, except per share data).
To the extent that we fail to comply with the covenants contained in these financing arrangements or is otherwise found to be in default under the terms of such agreements, the counterparty has the right to accelerate amounts due under the associated agreement. As of December 31, 2023, we are in compliance with all of our financial covenants.
To the extent that we fail to comply with the covenants contained in these financing arrangements or are otherwise found to be in default under the terms of such agreements, the counterparty has the right to accelerate amounts due under the associated agreement. As of December 31, 2024, we are in compliance with all of our financial covenants.
We define EAD, a non-GAAP financial measure, as Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders excluding (i) (a) unrealized gains/(losses) on loans, real estate securities, derivatives and other investments, inclusive of our investment in AG Arc, and (b) net realized gains/(losses) on the sale or termination of such instruments, (ii) any transaction related expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition, disposition, or securitization of our investments as well as transaction related expenses incurred in connection with the WMC acquisition, (iii) accrued deal-related performance fees payable to third party operators to the extent the primary component of the accrual relates to items that are excluded from EAD, such as unrealized and realized gains/(losses), (iv) realized and unrealized changes in the fair value of Arc Home's net mortgage servicing rights and the derivatives intended to offset changes in the fair value of those net mortgage servicing rights, (v) deferred taxes recognized at our taxable REIT subsidiaries, if any, (vi) any gains/(losses) associated with exchange transactions on our common and preferred stock, and (vii) any bargain purchase gains recognized.
We define EAD, a non-GAAP financial measure, as Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders excluding (i) (a) unrealized gains/(losses) on loans, real estate securities, derivatives and other investments, inclusive of our investment in AG 58 Arc, and (b) net realized gains/(losses) on the sale or termination of such instruments, (ii) any transaction related expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition, disposition, or securitization of our investments as well as transaction related expenses incurred in connection with the WMC acquisition, (iii) accrued deal-related performance fees payable to third party operators to the extent the primary component of the accrual relates to items that are excluded from EAD, such as unrealized and realized gains/(losses), (iv) realized and unrealized changes in the fair value of Arc Home's net mortgage servicing rights and the derivatives intended to offset changes in the fair value of those net mortgage servicing rights, (v) deferred taxes recognized at our taxable REIT subsidiaries, if any, (vi) any bargain purchase gains recognized, and (vii) certain other nonrecurring gains or losses.
Unfunded commitments See Note 12 of the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for details on our commitments as of December 31, 2023. Off-balance sheet arrangements Our investments in debt and equity of affiliates primarily consist of real estate securities and our interest in AG Arc.
Unfunded commitments See Note 12 of the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for details on our commitments as of December 31, 2024. 72 Off-balance sheet arrangements Our investments in debt and equity of affiliates primarily consist of real estate securities and our interest in AG Arc.
The following table presents the geographic concentration of the underlying collateral for our Non-Agency RMBS and Legacy WMC CMBS portfolios as of December 31, 2023 ($ in thousands).
The following table presents the geographic concentration of the underlying collateral for our Non-Agency RMBS and Legacy WMC CMBS portfolios as of December 31, 2024 ($ in thousands).
Forward-looking statements regarding liquidity Based upon our current portfolio, leverage and available borrowing arrangements, we believe the net proceeds of our common equity offerings, preferred equity offerings, and private placements, combined with cash flow from operating activities, financing activities, and our available borrowing capacity will be sufficient to enable us to meet our anticipated liquidity requirements, including funding our investment activities, paying fees under our management agreement, funding our distributions to stockholders and paying general corporate expenses.
Forward-looking statements regarding liquidity Based upon our current portfolio, leverage and available borrowing arrangements, we believe the net proceeds of our common equity offerings, preferred equity offerings, senior unsecured note issuances, and private placements, combined with cash flow from operating activities, financing activities, and our available borrowing capacity will be sufficient to enable us to meet our anticipated liquidity requirements, including funding our investment activities, paying fees under our management agreement, funding our distributions to stockholders, funding financing maturities, and paying general corporate expenses.
Refer to the "Liquidity risk – derivatives" section of Item 3 below for a further discussion on margin. 73 Cash Flows The table below details changes to our cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands).
Refer to the "Liquidity risk – derivatives" section of Item 3 below for a further discussion on margin. Cash Flows The table below details changes to our cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands).
The following table presents a summary of the weighted average financing balance and the weighted average financing rate for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 ($ in millions).
The following table presents a summary of the weighted average financing balance and the weighted average financing rate for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 ($ in millions).
The following table presents a summary of our non-investment related expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands).
The following table presents a summary of our non-investment related expenses for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands).
Further, an unexpected rise in interest rates and a corresponding fall in the fair value of our securities may also force us to liquidate assets under difficult market conditions, thereby harming our results of operations and financial condition, in an effort to maintain sufficient liquidity to meet increased margin calls.
Further, an unexpected rise in interest rates and a corresponding decline 68 in the fair value of our assets may also force us to liquidate assets under difficult market conditions in an effort to maintain sufficient liquidity to meet increased margin calls, thereby harming our results of operations and financial condition.
We typically use cash to repay principal and interest on our financing arrangements, to purchase loans, real estate securities, and other real estate related assets, to make dividend payments on our capital stock, to repurchase our capital stock, and to fund our operations.
We typically use cash to repay principal and interest on our financing arrangements and senior unsecured notes, to purchase loans, real estate securities, and other real estate related assets, to make dividend payments on our capital stock, to repurchase our capital stock, and to fund our operations.
In connection with the WMC acquisition, we and our Manager entered into the MITT Management Agreement Amendment pursuant to which the base management fee will be reduced by $0.6 million for the first four quarters following the transaction closing, beginning with the fiscal quarter in which the transaction closing occurs (i.e., resulting in an aggregate $2.4 million waiver of base management fees).
In connection with the WMC acquisition, we and our Manager entered into the MITT Management Agreement Amendment pursuant to which the base management fee was reduced by $0.6 million for the first four quarters following the transaction closing, beginning with the fiscal quarter in which the transaction closing occurred (i.e., resulting in an aggregate $2.4 million waiver of base management fees).
Our principal sources of cash consist of borrowings under financing arrangements, principal and interest payments we receive on our investment portfolio, cash generated from our operating results, and proceeds from capital market transactions.
Our principal sources of cash consist of borrowings under financing arrangements, principal and interest payments we receive on our investment portfolio, cash generated from our operating results, proceeds from the sale of investments, and proceeds from capital market transactions.
The weighted average yield represents an effective interest rate on our cost basis, which utilizes all estimates of future cash flows and adjusts for actual prepayment and cash flow activity as of quarter-end. The calculation of weighted average yield is weighted on fair value at quarter-end.
The weighted average yield represents an effective interest rate on our cost basis, which utilizes all estimates of future cash flows and adjusts for actual prepayment and cash flow activity as of quarter-end. The calculation of weighted average yield is weighted on amortized cost at year end.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we recorded a reimbursement payable to our Manager or its affiliates of $1.5 million and $1.3 million, respectively. The reimbursement payable to the Manager or its affiliates is included within the "Due to affiliates" line item within the "Other liabilities" line item on the consolidated balance sheets.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded a reimbursement payable to our Manager or its affiliates of $1.7 million and $1.5 million, respectively. The reimbursement payable to the Manager or its affiliates is included within the "Due to affiliates" line item within the "Other liabilities" line item on the consolidated balance sheets.
As of December 31, 2023, there were no shares or awards issued under the 2021 Manager Plan.
As of December 31, 2024, there were no shares or awards issued under the 2021 Manager Plan.
(f) Cash and cash equivalents may include a portion of cash invested in money market funds. The yield represents the interest earned on money market funds as of period end. (g) Interest rate swaps represents the sum of the net fair value of interest rate swaps and the margin posted on interest rate swaps as of period end.
(i) Cash and cash equivalents may include a portion of cash invested in money market funds. The yield represents the interest earned on money market funds as of period end. (j) Interest rate swaps represents the sum of the net fair value of interest rate swaps and the margin posted on interest rate swaps as of period end.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, we eliminated $1.4 million or $0.07 per share and $6.0 million or $0.26 per share of intra-entity profits recognized by Arc Home, respectively, and also decreased the cost basis of the underlying loans we purchased by the same amount.
For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we eliminated $1.1 million or $0.04 per share and $1.4 million or $0.07 per share of intra-entity profits recognized by Arc Home, respectively, and also decreased the cost basis of the underlying loans we purchased by the same amount.
Additionally, for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, $(1.5) million or $(0.07) per share and $(5.6) million or $(0.24) per share, respectively, of unrealized changes in the fair value of our investment in Arc Home were excluded from EAD.
Additionally, for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, $2.6 million or $0.09 per share and $(1.5) million or $(0.07) per share, respectively, of unrealized changes in the fair value of our investment in Arc Home were excluded from EAD.
(2) For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, $(0.3) million or $(0.01) per share and $9.2 million or $0.40 per share, respectively, of realized and unrealized changes in the fair value of Arc Home's net mortgage servicing rights, changes in the fair value of corresponding derivatives, and other asset impairments were excluded from EAD, net of deferred tax expense.
(2) For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, $1.8 million or $0.06 per share and $(0.3) million or $(0.01) per share, respectively, of realized and unrealized changes in the fair value of Arc Home's net mortgage servicing rights, changes in the fair value of corresponding derivatives, and other asset impairments were excluded from EAD, net of deferred tax expense.
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of our financial instruments are yields, prepayment rates, probability of default, and loss severity in the event of default. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of our financial instruments are market-implied discount rates, default rates, delinquency rates, prepayment rates and loss severity in the event of default. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
We define Economic Leverage, a non-GAAP metric, as the sum of: (i) our GAAP leverage, exclusive of any fully non-recourse financing arrangements, (ii) financing arrangements held through affiliated entities, net of any restricted cash posted on such financing arrangements, exclusive of any financing utilized through AG Arc, any adjustment related to unsettled trades as described in (4) in the previous sentence, and any non-recourse financing arrangements and (iii) our net TBA position (at cost), if any. 71 The calculations in the tables below divide GAAP leverage and Economic Leverage by our GAAP stockholders’ equity to derive our leverage ratios.
We define Economic Leverage, a non-GAAP metric, as the sum of: (i) our GAAP leverage, exclusive of any fully non-recourse financing arrangements, (ii) financing arrangements held through affiliated entities, net of any restricted cash posted on such financing arrangements, exclusive of any financing utilized through AG Arc, any adjustment related to unsettled trades as described in (4) in the previous sentence, and any non-recourse financing arrangements and (iii) our net TBA position (at cost), if any.
(3) Cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to the issuance of securitized debt, offset by principal repayments on securitized debt, net repayments of repurchase agreements, dividend payments, and common share repurchases.
(3) Cash provided by financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was primarily attributable to the issuance of securitized debt, offset by principal repayments on securitized debt, net repayments of repurchase agreements, and dividend payments.
Year Ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Management fee to affiliate (1) $ 7,711 $ 8,096 (1) For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Manager agreed to waive its right to receive management fees of $0.6 million pursuant to the MITT Management Agreement Amendment executed in connection with the Merger.
Years Ended December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 Management fee to affiliate (1) $ 7,533 $ 7,711 (1) For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Manager agreed to waive its right to receive management fees of $1.8 million and $0.6 million pursuant to the MITT Management Agreement Amendment executed in connection with the Merger.
See the "Financing activities" section below for more detail on our leverage ratio. 63 Investment portfolio The following tables present a summary of our investment portfolio, inclusive of net interest margin and leverage ratios, as of December 31, 2023 and a reconciliation of these metrics on our Investment Portfolio to their respective metrics on our GAAP Investment Portfolio ($ in thousands).
See the "Financing activities" section below for more detail on our leverage ratio. 60 Investment portfolio The following table presents a summary of our investment portfolio, inclusive of net interest margin and leverage ratios, as of December 31, 2024 and a reconciliation of these metrics on our Investment Portfolio to their respective metrics on our GAAP Investment Portfolio ($ in thousands).
The management fee payable is included within the "Due to affiliates" item within the "Other liabilities" line item on the consolidated balance sheets. 75 Incentive fee The Manager is entitled to an annual incentive fee with respect to each applicable fiscal year, which will be equal to 15% of the amount by which our cumulative adjusted net income from November 22, 2021 exceeds the cumulative hurdle amount, which represents an 8% return (cumulative, but not compounding) on an equity hurdle base consisting of the sum of (i) $341.5 million and (ii) the gross proceeds of any subsequent public or private common stock offerings by us.
Incentive fee The Manager is entitled to an annual incentive fee with respect to each applicable fiscal year, which will be equal to 15% of the amount by which our cumulative adjusted net income from November 22, 2021 exceeds the cumulative hurdle amount, which represents an 8% return (cumulative, but not compounding) on an equity hurdle base consisting of the sum of (i) $341.5 million and (ii) the gross proceeds of any subsequent public or private common stock offerings by us.
On December 6, 2023, in connection with the WMC acquisition, we granted an aggregate 25,962 restricted stock units to the two independent directors added to our Board of Directors who previously served on WMC's board of directors.
In addition, on December 6, 2023, in connection with the WMC acquisition and pursuant to the 2020 Equity Incentive Plan, we granted an aggregate 25,962 restricted stock units to the two independent directors added to our Board of Directors who previously served on WMC's board of directors.
Stock repurchase programs On August 3, 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program (the "2022 Repurchase Program") to repurchase up to $15.0 million of our outstanding common stock on substantially the same terms as the 2015 Repurchase Program.
Stock repurchase programs On August 3, 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program (the "2022 Repurchase Program") to repurchase up to $15.0 million of our outstanding common stock.
See Note 11 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for additional details on the shares repurchased under the 2022 Repurchase Program during the year ended December 31, 2023.
See Note 11 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for additional details on the shares repurchased under the 2022 Repurchase Program during the year ended December 31, 2023. We did not repurchase common stock during the year ended December 31, 2024.
In connection with the Merger with WMC, which was completed on December 6, 2023, and contemporaneously with the execution of the Merger Agreement, on August 8, 2023, we and our Manager entered into the MITT Management Agreement Amendment, pursuant to which (i) our Manager’s base management fee will be reduced by $0.6 million for the first four quarters following the Effective Time, beginning with the fiscal quarter in which the Effective Time occurs (i.e., resulting in an aggregate $2.4 million waiver of base management fees), and (ii) our Manager will waive its right to seek reimbursement from us for any expenses otherwise reimbursable by us under the management agreement in an amount equal to approximately $1.3 million, which is the excess of $7.0 million over the aggregate Per Share Additional Merger Consideration paid by our Manager to the holders of WMC Common Stock under the Merger Agreement.
In connection with the closing of the Merger with WMC, the MITT Management Agreement Amendment became effective, pursuant to which (i) our Manager’s base management fee was reduced by $0.6 million for the first four quarters following the Effective Time, beginning with the fiscal quarter in which the Effective Time occurred (i.e., resulting in an aggregate $2.4 million waiver of base management fees), and (ii) our Manager waived its right to seek reimbursement from us for any expenses otherwise reimbursable by us under the management agreement in an amount equal to approximately $1.3 million, which was the excess of $7.0 million over the aggregate Per Share Additional Merger Consideration paid by our Manager to the holders of WMC Common Stock under the Merger Agreement.
The earnings/(loss) at AG Arc during the year ended December 31, 2022 were primarily the result of $(5.5) million of losses related to Arc Home's lending and servicing operations, offset by $3.4 million related to changes in the fair value of the MSR portfolio held by Arc Home.
The earnings/(loss) at AG Arc during the year ended December 31, 2023 were primarily the result of $(3.8) million related to changes in the fair value of the MSR portfolio held by Arc Home coupled with $(0.2) million of losses related to Arc Home's lending and servicing operations.
The realized gain during the year ended December 31, 2023 was driven by unwinding pay-fix, receive-variable interest rate swaps which were previously held at unrealized gains as a result of rising interest rates. This was offset by realized losses on sales of residential mortgage loans and real estate securities.
The realized loss during the year ended December 31, 2024 was primarily driven by losses from unwinding pay-fix, receive-variable interest rate swaps which were held at unrealized losses. This was offset by realized gains on sales of residential mortgage loans and real estate securities.
Legacy WMC Commercial loans See Note 3 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for information on the geographic concentration, collateral characteristics, LTV, and maturities of the loans we include in the "Commercial loans, at fair value," line item on our consolidated balance sheets. 68 Non-Agency RMBS and Legacy WMC CMBS & Other Securities The following table presents the fair value of our Non-Agency RMBS and Legacy WMC CMBS and Other Securities by credit rating as of December 31, 2023 (in thousands).
Legacy WMC Commercial loans See Note 3 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for information on the coupons, weighted average life, geographic concentration, collateral characteristics, LTV, and maturities of the loans we include in the "Commercial loans, at fair value" line item on our consolidated balance sheets. 63 Non-Agency RMBS and Legacy WMC CMBS The following table presents the fair value, coupon, and weighted average life of our Non-Agency RMBS and Legacy WMC CMBS portfolios as of December 31, 2024 ($ in thousands).
Year Ended Consolidated statements of operations line item: December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Non-investment related expenses (1) $ 5,095 $ 4,646 Investment related expenses 467 755 Transaction related expenses 896 2,757 Expense reimbursements to Manager or its affiliates $ 6,458 $ 8,158 (1) For the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, our Manager agreed to waive its right to receive expense reimbursements of $1.7 million million and $1.5 million, respectively.
Years Ended Consolidated statements of operations line item: December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 Non-investment related expenses (1) $ 5,715 $ 5,095 Investment related expenses 477 467 Transaction related expenses 608 896 Expense reimbursements to Manager or its affiliates $ 6,800 $ 6,458 (1) For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 , our Manager agreed to waive its right to receive expense reimbursements of $1.1 million and $1.7 million, respectively.
For additional information related to our significant accounting policies, see Note 2 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements." We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, which requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period.
Critical accounting estimates We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, which requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period.
GAAP and non-GAAP cost of funds are weighted by the outstanding financing arrangements on our GAAP investment portfolio and our investment portfolio, respectively, and the fair value of securitized debt at quarter-end.
GAAP and non-GAAP cost of funds are weighted by the outstanding financing arrangements on our GAAP investment portfolio and our investment portfolio, respectively, and the amortized cost of securitized debt and senior unsecured notes at year end.
At December 31, 2023, we had $112.3 million of liquidity, which consisted of $111.5 million of cash and $0.8 million of unencumbered Agency RMBS available to support our liquidity needs. Refer to the "Contractual obligations" section of this Part II, Item 7 for additional obligations that could impact our liquidity.
At December 31, 2024, we had $136.9 million of liquidity, which consisted of $118.7 million of cash and $18.2 million of unencumbered Agency RMBS available to support our liquidity needs. Refer to the "Contractual obligations" section of this Part II, Item 7 for additional obligations that could impact our liquidity.
Year Ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Sales of residential mortgage loans and loans transferred to or sold from Other assets $ (12,079) $ (2,958) Sales of real estate securities (1,558) (34,504) Settlement of derivatives and other instruments 21,334 118,851 Total Net realized gain/(loss) $ 7,697 $ 81,389 58 Net unrealized gain/(loss) The following table presents a summary of net unrealized gain/(loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands).
Years Ended December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 Sales of residential mortgage loans and loans transferred to or sold from Other assets $ 5,254 $ (12,079) Sales of real estate securities 12,710 (1,558) Settlement of derivatives and other instruments (20,882) 21,334 Total Net realized gain/(loss) $ (2,918) $ 7,697 55 Net unrealized gain/(loss) The following table presents a summary of Net unrealized gain/(loss) for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands).
Year Ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 MATT Non-QM Securities (1) $ 3,992 $ 1,261 Land Related Financing (2) 758 1,621 Re/Non-Performing Securities 782 594 AG Arc (3) (6,922) (13,734) Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates $ (1,390) $ (10,258) (1) The earnings within MATT for the year ended December 31, 2023 were primarily the result of net interest income of $3.5 million and unrealized gains of $0.7 million offset by expenses of $(0.2) million.
Years Ended December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 MATT Non-QM Securities (1) $ 1,289 $ 3,992 Land Related Financing (2) — 758 Re/Non-Performing Securities 711 782 AG Arc (3) 1,141 (6,922) Equity in earnings/(loss) from affiliates $ 3,141 $ (1,390) (1) The earnings within MATT for the year ended December 31, 2024 were primarily the result of net interest income of $2.9 million offset by unrealized losses of $(1.4) million and expenses of $(0.2) million.
(8) Other securities include residual interests in asset-backed securities which have no principal balance. 66 Residential mortgage loans See Note 3 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for information on credit quality and a breakout of geographic concentration of credit risk within loans we include in the "Securitized residential mortgage loans, at fair value," "Residential mortgage loans, at fair value," and "Residential mortgage loans held for sale, at fair value" line items on our consolidated balance sheets.
See Note 3 to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for additional information on credit quality and a breakout of geographic concentration of credit risk within loans we include in the "Securitized residential mortgage loans, at fair value" and "Residential mortgage loans, at fair value" line items on our consolidated balance sheets.
(2) Cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to purchases of investments, offset by sales of investments and principal repayments on investments.
(2) Cash used in investing activities for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was primarily attributable to purchases of investments, offset by sales of investments and principal repayments on investments. The increase in net cash used in investing activities was a result of the Company's increased purchase activity during the year ended December 31, 2024.
Year Ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders $ 35,440 $ (71,444) Add (Deduct): Net realized (gain)/loss (7,697) (81,389) Net unrealized (gain)/loss (1,450) 137,634 Transaction related expenses and deal related performance fees (1) 11,233 17,162 Equity in (earnings)/loss from affiliates 1,390 10,258 EAD from equity method investments (2)(3) (452) (12,320) Dollar roll income/(loss) — 1,999 Bargain purchase gain (30,190) — Earnings available for distribution $ 8,274 $ 1,900 Earnings available for distribution, per Diluted Share $ 0.39 $ 0.08 (1) For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, total transaction related expenses and deal related performance fees included $11.1 million and $16.5 million, respectively, recorded within the "Transaction related expenses" line item and $0.1 million and $0.7 million, respectively, recorded within the "Interest expense" line item, which relates to the amortization of deferred financing costs.
Years Ended December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 Net Income/(loss) available to common stockholders $ 36,384 $ 35,440 Add (Deduct): Net realized (gain)/loss 2,918 (7,697) Net unrealized (gain)/loss (16,956) (1,450) Transaction related expenses and deal related performance fees (1) 3,310 11,233 Equity in (earnings)/loss from affiliates (3,141) 1,390 EAD from equity method investments (2)(3) 62 (452) Bargain purchase gain — (30,190) Earnings available for distribution $ 22,577 $ 8,274 Earnings available for distribution, per Diluted Share $ 0.76 $ 0.39 (1) For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, total transaction related expenses and deal related performance fees included $3.2 million and $11.1 million, respectively, recorded within the "Transaction related expenses" line item and $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively, recorded within the "Interest expense" line item, which relates to the amortization of deferred financing costs.
Investment Activity • The table below summarizes the fair value of purchases and proceeds from sales of investments, as well as the fair value of assets acquired through the WMC acquisition, during the year ended December 31, 2023 (in thousands).
Investment Activity • The table below summarizes the fair value of purchases and proceeds from sales of investments during the year ended December 31, 2024 (in thousands).
Year Ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Residential mortgage loans $ 111,714 $ (539,987) Commercial loans 95 — Real estate securities 3,475 3,010 Securitized debt (89,369) 401,467 Derivatives (24,465) (2,124) Total Net unrealized gain/(loss) $ 1,450 $ (137,634) Bargain purchase gain Per ASC 805, "Business Combinations," a bargain purchase gain is recognized in current earnings when the aggregate fair value of the consideration transferred is less than the fair value of the identifiable net asset acquired.
Years Ended December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 Residential mortgage loans $ 41,840 $ 111,714 Commercial loans 268 95 Real estate securities (865) 3,475 Securitized debt (35,028) (89,369) Derivatives 10,741 (24,465) Total Net unrealized gain/(loss) $ 16,956 $ 1,450 Bargain purchase gain Per ASC 805, "Business Combinations," a bargain purchase gain is recognized in current earnings when the aggregate fair value of the consideration transferred is less than the fair value of the identifiable net asset acquired.
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company declared common stock dividends of $0.72 per share. During the same period, the Company declared preferred stock dividends on its 8.25% Series A, 8.00% Series B, and 8.000% Series C of $2.06252, $2.00, and $2.00, respectively.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company declared common stock dividends of $0.75 per share. During the same period, the Company declared and paid preferred stock dividends on its Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, and Series C Preferred Stock of $2.06252, $2.00, and $2.233117, respectively.
Undistributed taxable income is based on current estimates and is not finalized until we file our annual 72 tax return for that tax year, typically in October of the following year. We did not have any undistributed taxable income as of December 31, 2023.
Undistributed taxable income is based on current estimates and is not finalized until we file our annual tax return for that tax year, typically in October of the following year. As of December 31, 2024, we had estimated undistributed taxable income of approximately $0.38 per share.