The Argument Against American Capital As a BDC
Is American Capital best served as a BDC? There are some indications that CEO Malon Wilkus could be leaning in a different direction. He’s discussed it at a number of investor meetings and regularly compared American Capital to Danaher Corporation (DHR), which is a C-corp. American Capital would probably prefer to stay a BDC, as it has been for the last ten years. But if the environment stays this volatile, it could find shelter in a different structure. Out of all of the BDCs that are hurting right now, this option is really only open to American Capital. It’s the only one with enough control investments to make the switch and maintain the required 55% control investment minimum. American Capital has control stakes in around 50% of its investments. A simple sell-off of some loans could tip the scales. The benefits of American Capital making the switch are as follows: As it
