Successful Conversion to Closed-End Fund
Ellington Credit Company successfully transitioned to a closed-end fund, with an official conversion date set for April 1, 2025. This transition is expected to improve risk-adjusted returns, enhance capital market access, and provide greater tax efficiencies.
CLO Portfolio Growth
The CLO portfolio grew by 18% in the fourth quarter to $171 million, with a focus on CLO equity tranches due to tightening debt spreads. The CLO portfolio further expanded to $235 million by the transcript date.
Strong Performance in CLO Mezzanine Debt
CLO mezzanine debt continued to perform well, contributing to net interest income and adjusted distributable earnings with tighter credit spreads and opportunistic sales.
Dividend Coverage
Adjusted distributable earnings of $0.27 per share covered the dividends of $0.24 per share for the quarter.
High Liquidity Levels
Liquidity remained high with cash plus unencumbered assets totaling $111 million, representing more than 50% of total equity.