EX-99.(5) 8 d443175dex995.htm FORM OF PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT FOR SUBSCRIPTION RIGHTS OFFERING Form of Preliminary Prospectus Supplement for Subscription Rights Offering

Exhibit 99.5

This preliminary prospectus supplement relates to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, but the information in this preliminary prospectus supplement is not complete and may be changed. This preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus are not an offer to sell and are not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer and sale is not permitted.

[FORM OF PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT TO BE USED IN

CONJUNCTION WITH FUTURE RIGHTS OFFERINGS] (1)

SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED [    ], 20[    ]

[PRELIMINARY] PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

(to Prospectus dated [    ], 20[    ])

Shares

CM Finance Inc

Up to [    ] Shares of

Common Stock

Issuable Upon

Exercise of Rights

 

 

We are an externally managed, closed-end, non-diversified management investment company that has elected to be treated as a business development company, or “BDC,” under the Investment Company Act of 1940, or the “1940 Act.” Our primary investment objective is to maximize total return to stockholders in the form of current income and capital appreciation by investing directly in debt and related equity of privately held middle market companies to help these companies fund organic growth, acquisitions, market or product expansion, refinancings and/or recapitalizations. We invest primarily in middle-market companies in the form of unitranche loans, standalone first and second lien loans. We may also invest in unsecured debt, bonds and in the equity of portfolio companies through warrants.

We are issuing [transferable/non-transferable] rights, or the rights, to our stockholders of record, or record date stockholders, as of [    ], New York City time, on [    ], 20[    ], or the record date. The rights entitle holders of rights, or rights holders, to subscribe for an aggregate of up to [    ] shares of our common stock. Record date stockholders will receive one right for each share of common stock owned on the record date. The rights entitle the holder to purchase one new share of common stock for every [    ] rights held, which we refer to as the basic subscription right[, and record date stockholders who fully exercise their rights will be entitled to subscribe, subject to certain limitations and pro-rata allocation, for additional shares that remain unsubscribed as a result of any unexercised rights.] [In addition, any non-record date stockholder who exercises rights will be entitled to subscribe, subject to certain limitations and pro-rata allocation, for any remaining shares that are not otherwise subscribed for by record date stockholders.]


The subscription price per share will be [describe means of computing subscription price]. Because the subscription price will be determined on the expiration date, stockholders who elect to exercise their rights will not know the subscription price per share at the time they exercise such rights. The rights will expire if they are not exercised by [    ], New York City time, on [ ], 20[ ], the expiration date of this offering, unless extended. We, in our sole discretion, may extend the period for exercising the rights. You will have no right to rescind your subscription after receipt of your payment of the estimated subscription price or a notice of guaranteed delivery except as described in this prospectus supplement or accompanying prospectus.

This offering will dilute the ownership interest and voting power of the common stock owned by stockholders who do not fully exercise their subscription rights. Stockholders who do not fully exercise their subscription rights should expect, upon completion of the offering, to own a smaller proportional interest in us than before the offering. Further, if the net proceeds per share from the offering are at a discount to our net asset value per share, this offering will reduce our net asset value per share.

Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, or “NASDAQ,” under the symbol “CMFN.” [    ], 20[    ], the last reported sales price on the NASDAQ for our stock was $[    ] per share. Our net asset value per share of our common stock as of [    ] was $[    ].

The companies in which we invest are typically highly leveraged, and, in most cases, our investments in such companies are not rated by national rating agencies If such investments were rated, we believe that they would likely receive a rating which is often referred to as “junk” and should be considered speculative. [We are an “emerging growth company” under the federal securities laws and are subject to reduced public company reporting requirements.]

 

 

Investing in our common stock through rights may be highly speculative and involves a high degree of risk and should be considered speculative. For more information regarding the risks you should consider, including the risk of leverage, please see “Supplementary Risk Factors” on page 21 of this prospectus supplement and “Risk Factors” on page 21 of the accompanying prospectus.

Stockholders who do not exercise their rights may, at the completion of this offering, own a smaller proportional interest in the Company than if they had exercised their rights. As a result of this offering, you may experience dilution or accretion of the aggregate net asset value of your shares of common stock depending upon whether the net asset value per share of common stock is above or below the subscription price on the expiration date.

Shares of closed-end investment companies, including business development companies, frequently trade at a discount to their net asset value. If our shares trade at a discount to our net asset value, it will likely increase the risk of loss for purchasers in this offering.


Please read this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus before investing in our common stock and keep each for future reference. This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus contain important information about us that a prospective investor ought to know before investing in our common stock. We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements, and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This information is available free of charge by contacting us at 601 Lexington Avenue, 26th Floor, New York, New York 10022, or by calling us at (212) 257-5199 or on our website at http://cmfn-inc.com. Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus, and you should not consider information contained on our website to be part of this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus. The Securities and Exchange Commission also maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov that contains information about us.

The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved of these common shares through Rights or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

     Per Share      Total (4)  

Estimated Subscription Price (1)

   $      $  

Estimated Sales Load (Underwriting Discounts and Commissions) [(2)](3)

   $      $  

Proceeds to the Company (before expenses) (1)(3)

   $      $  

 

(1) Estimated on the basis of [describe means of computing subscription price]. See “The Offer—Subscription Price.”
[(2) In connection with this offering, [    ], the dealer manager for this offering, will receive a fee for its financial advisory, marketing and soliciting services equal to [    ]% of the subscription price per share for each share issued pursuant to the exercise of rights[, including pursuant to the over-subscription privilege].]
(3) We estimate that we will incur offering expenses of approximately $[    ] in connection with this offering. We estimate that net proceeds to us after expenses will be $[    ] assuming all of the rights are exercised at the estimated subscription price.
(4) Assumes all rights are exercised at the estimated subscription price.

Prospectus Supplement dated [    ], 20[    ].

 

(1) In addition to the sections outlined in this form of prospectus supplement, each prospectus supplement actually used in connection with an offering conducted pursuant to the registration statement to which this form of prospectus supplement is attached will be updated to include such other information as may then be required to be disclosed therein pursuant to applicable law or regulation as in effect as of the date of each such prospectus supplement, including, without limitation, information particular to the terms of each security offered thereby, and any related risk factors or tax considerations pertaining thereto. This form of prospectus supplement is intended only to provide a rough approximation of the nature and type of disclosure that may appear in any actual prospectus supplement used for the purposes of offering securities pursuant to the registration statement to which this form of prospectus supplement is attached, and is not intended to and does not contain all of the information that would appear is any such actual prospectus supplement, and should not be used or relied upon in connection with any offer or sale of securities.


TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

 

ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

     S-iii  

PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT SUMMARY

     S-1  

THE RIGHTS OFFERING

     S-10  

FEES AND EXPENSES

     S-15  

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     S-18  

SUPPLEMENTARY RISK FACTORS

     S-20  

USE OF PROCEEDS

     S-21  

CAPITALIZATION

     S-22  

PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK AND DISTRIBUTIONS

     S-23  

SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA

     S-26  

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

     S-27  

DILUTION

     S-28  

THE OFFER

     S-29  

LEGAL MATTERS

     S-43  

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

     S-44  

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

     S-45  

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     S-46  

PROSPECTUS

 

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

     1  

THE OFFERING

     10  

FEES AND EXPENSES

     17  

SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA

     20  

RISK FACTORS

     21  

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     56  

USE OF PROCEEDS

     57  

PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK AND DISTRIBUTIONS

     58  

RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES

     61  

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

     62  

SENIOR SECURITIES

     77  

THE COMPANY

     78  

PORTFOLIO COMPANIES

     91  

MANAGEMENT

     95  

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS

     103  

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS

     113  

CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

     115  

 

S-i


SELLING STOCKHOLDERS

     117  

DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE

     119  

SALES OF COMMON STOCK BELOW NET ASSET VALUE

     121  

DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN

     127  

CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

     129  

DESCRIPTION OF OUR COMMON STOCK

     137  

DESCRIPTION OF OUR PREFERRED STOCK

     143  

DESCRIPTION OF OUR SUBSCRIPTION RIGHTS

     144  

DESCRIPTION OF OUR DEBT SECURITIES

     146  

DESCRIPTION OF OUR WARRANTS

     160  

REGULATION

     162  

PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

     167  

CUSTODIAN, TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT AND REGISTRAR

     169  

BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND OTHER PRACTICES

     169  

LEGAL MATTERS

     169  

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

     169  

CHANGE IN INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

     169  

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

     170  

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     F-1  

 

S-ii


ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

This document is in two parts. The first part is the prospectus supplement, which describes the terms of this offering of [transferable/non-transferable] rights and also adds to and updates information contained in the accompanying prospectus. The second part is the accompanying prospectus, which gives more general information and disclosure. To the extent the information contained in this prospectus supplement differs from or adds to the information contained in the accompanying prospectus, you should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus supplement. Please carefully read this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus together with the additional information described under the headings “Available Information” and “Risk Factors” included in this prospectus supplement and in the accompanying prospectus, respectively, before investing in our the rights.

Neither we nor the underwriters have authorized any dealer, salesman, or other person to give any information or to make any representation other than those contained in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus do not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any security other than the registered securities to which they relate, nor do they constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction or to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. The information contained in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus is accurate as of the dates on their respective covers. Our financial condition, results of operations, and prospects may have changed since those dates. To the extent required by law, we will amend or supplement the information contained in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus to reflect any material changes subsequent to the date of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and prior to the completion of any offering pursuant to this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.

 

S-iii


PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT SUMMARY

The following summary contains basic information about the offering pursuant to this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. It is not complete and may not contain all the information that is important to you. For a more complete understanding of the offering pursuant to this prospectus supplement, we encourage you to read this entire prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, and the documents to which we have referred in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. Together, these documents describe the specific terms of the securities we are offering. You should carefully read the sections entitled “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and our consolidated financial statements included in the accompanying prospectus. Except as otherwise noted, all information in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus assumes no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares.

We were formed in February 2012 and commenced operations in March 2012 as CM Finance LLC, a Maryland limited liability company. Immediately prior to the pricing of our initial public offering, CM Finance LLC was merged with and into CM Finance Inc, a Maryland corporation (the “CM Finance Merger”), that is an externally managed, non-diversified closed-end management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company (“BDC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). Except as otherwise indicated, the terms “we,” “us,” “our” and “CM Finance” refer to CM Finance LLC prior to the CM Finance Merger and CM Finance Inc after the CM Finance Merger; and “CM Investment Partners” and the “Adviser” refer to our investment adviser and administrator, CM Investment Partners LLC.

We are a specialty finance company that invests primarily in the debt of U.S. middle-market companies, which we generally define as those companies that have an enterprise value, that represents the aggregate of debt value and equity value of the entity of less than $750 million. We are externally managed by CM Investment Partners. The Adviser is led by Michael C. Mauer and Christopher E. Jansen, who together have over 40 years of experience in the leveraged debt markets. Our primary investment objective is to maximize total return to stockholders in the form of current income and capital appreciation by investing in debt and related equity of privately held middle-market companies.

We seek to invest primarily in middle-market companies that have annual revenues of at least $50 million and EBITDA of at least $15 million. We focus on companies with leading market positions, significant asset or franchise values, strong free cash flow and experienced senior management teams, with emphasis on companies with high-quality sponsors. Our investments typically range in size from $5 million to $25 million. We expect that our portfolio companies will use our capital for organic growth, acquisitions, market or product expansion, refinancings, and/or recapitalizations. We invest, and intend to continue to invest, in unitranche loans and standalone second and first lien loans, with an emphasis on floating rate debt. Unitranche loans are loans structured as first lien loans with certain characteristics of mezzanine loan risk in one security. We also selectively invest in unsecured debt, bonds and in the equity of portfolio companies through warrants and other instruments, in most cases taking such upside participation interests as part of a broader investment relationship.



 

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We strive to maintain a strong focus on credit quality, investment discipline and investment selectivity. We believe that investing in the debt of private middle-market companies generally provides a more attractive relative value proposition than investing in broadly syndicated debt due to the conservative capital structures and superior default and loss characteristics typically associated with middle-market companies. We believe that, because private middle-market companies have limited access to capital providers, debt investments in these companies typically carry above-market interest rates and include more favorable protections, resulting in attractive risk-adjusted returns across credit cycles while better preserving capital. The companies in which we invest typically are highly leveraged, and, in most cases, our investments in such companies are not rated by national rating agencies. If such investments were rated, we believe that they would likely receive a rating which is often referred to as “junk” and should be considered speculative.

We have, through CM Finance SPV Ltd. (“CM SPV”), our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a $102.0 million term secured financing facility (the “Term Financing”), due December 5, 2020 with UBS AG, London Branch (together with its affiliates “UBS”). The Term Financing is collateralized by a portion of the debt investments in our portfolio. Borrowings under the Term Financing bear interest (i) at a rate per annum equal to one-month LIBOR plus 2.75% through December 4, 2018, and (ii) at a rate per annum equal to one-month LIBOR plus 2.55% from December 5, 2018 through December 5, 2020. We also incur an annual fee of approximately 1% of the outstanding borrowings under the Term Financing.

On November 20, 2017, we entered into a $50 million revolving financing facility with UBS (the “2017 UBS Revolving Financing”, and together with the Term Financing, the “UBS Financing Facility”). Borrowings under the 2017 UBS Revolving Financing generally bear interest at a rate per annum equal to one-month LIBOR plus 3.55%. We pay a fee on any undrawn amounts of 2.50% per annum; provided that if 50% or less of the 2017 UBS Revolving Financing is drawn, the fee will be 2.75% per annum. Any amounts borrowed under the 2017 UBS Revolving Financing will mature, and all accrued and unpaid interest will be due and payable, on December 5, 2019. We refer to the Term Financing, the 2017 UBS Revolving Financing and our prior revolving credit facility with Citibank, N.A., discussed in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Facility,” together as the “Financing Facilities.”

As of [    ] 20[    ], our portfolio consisted of debt and equity investments in [    ] portfolio companies with a fair value of $[    ] million. As of [    ], 20[    ], our portfolio consisted of [    ]% first lien investments, [    ]% second lien investments, [    ]% unsecured debt investments, and [    ]% equity, warrant and other positions. At [    ], 20[    ], the weighted average total yield of debt and income producing securities at amortized cost (which includes income and amortization of fees and discounts) was [    ]%. The weighted average total yield was computed using an internal rate of return calculation of our debt investments based on contractual cash flows, including interest and amortization payments, and, for floating rate investments, the spot London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), as of [    ], 20[    ] of all of our debt investments. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”. The weighted average total yield of our debt investments is not the same as a return on investment for our stockholders but, rather, relates to a portion of our investment portfolio and is calculated before payment of all of our fees and expenses, including any sales load paid in connection with an offering of our securities. There can be no assurance that the weighted average total yield will remain at its current level.



 

S-2


CM Investment Partners LLC

CM Investment Partners, our external investment adviser, was formed in July 2013 and is a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the “Advisers Act”). The Adviser is responsible for sourcing investment opportunities, conducting industry research, performing diligence on potential investments, structuring our investments and monitoring our portfolio companies on an ongoing basis. The Adviser is led by its Co-Chief Investment Officers, Michael C. Mauer and Christopher E. Jansen. Mr. Mauer also serves as the Chairman of our board of directors and our Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Jansen also serves as our President and Secretary and as a member of our board of directors. Mr. Mauer was formerly Global Co-Head of Leveraged Finance and Global Co-Head of Fixed Income Currency and Commodity Distribution at Citigroup Inc. and a senior member of its credit committee responsible for all underwriting and principal commitments of leveraged finance capital worldwide. Mr. Jansen was a founding Managing Partner and Senior Portfolio Manager for Stanfield Capital Partners and had a leading role in planning its strategic direction. At Stanfield, Mr. Jansen was responsible for the management of 15 different portfolios aggregating in excess of $7 billion in assets consisting of large corporate loans, middle-market loans, second lien loans, high yield bonds and structured finance securities.

The Adviser’s investment team, led by Messrs. Mauer and Jansen, is supported by four additional investment professionals, who, together with Messrs. Mauer and Jansen, we refer to as the “Investment Team.” The members of the Investment Team have over 100 combined years of structuring customized debt solutions for middle-market companies, which we believe will enable us to generate favorable returns across credit cycles with an emphasis on preserving capital. Messrs. Mauer and Jansen have developed an investment process for reviewing lending opportunities, structuring transactions and monitoring investments throughout multiple credit cycles. The members of the Investment Team have extensive networks for sourcing investment opportunities through direct corporate relationships and relationships with private equity firms, investment banks, restructuring advisors, law firms, boutique advisory firms and distressed/specialty lenders. The members of the Investment Team also have extensive experience across various industries, including aviation, cable, defense, healthcare, media, mining, oil and gas, power, retail, telecommunications, trucking and asset-backed special situations. As a result, we believe we will be able to achieve appropriate risk-adjusted returns by investing in companies that have restructured but do not have sufficient track records to receive traditional lending terms from a commercial bank or the broadly syndicated leveraged finance market. We believe the members of the Investment Team share a common investment philosophy built on a framework of rigorous business assessment, extensive due diligence and disciplined risk valuation methodology.

Every initial investment by us requires the approval by a majority of the Adviser’s investment committee and such majority must include both Messrs. Mauer and Jansen. Every follow-on investment decision in an existing portfolio company and every investment disposition require approval by a majority of the Adviser’s investment committee. The Adviser’s investment committee currently consists of Messrs. Mauer and Jansen, the Co-Chief Investment Officers of the Adviser, Andrew Muns, a managing director of the Adviser, and Michael Nitka, Stifel Venture Corp.’s (“Stifel”) designee to the Adviser’s investment committee.

We have entered into an investment advisory agreement (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) with the Adviser, pursuant to which we pay the Adviser a management fee equal to 1.75% of our gross assets, payable in arrears on a quarterly basis. In addition, pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement, we pay the Adviser an Incentive Fee equal to 20.0% of pre-incentive fee net investment income, subject to an annualized hurdle rate of 8.0% with a “catch up” fee for returns between the 8.0% hurdle and 10.0%, as well as 20.0% of net capital gains.



 

S-3


Under an administration agreement with the Adviser (the “Administration Agreement”), the Adviser provides us with our chief financial officer, accounting and back-office professionals, equipment and clerical, bookkeeping, recordkeeping and other administrative services.

We believe that the current investment environment presents a compelling case for investing in secured debt (including unitranche debt and standalone second and first lien loans) and unsecured debt (including mezzanine/structured equity) of middle-market companies. The following factors represent the key drivers of our focus on this attractive market segment:

 

    Reduced Availability of Capital for Middle-Market Companies. We believe there are fewer providers of financing and less capital available for middle-market companies compared to prior to the recent economic downturn. We believe that, as a result of that downturn:

 

    many financing providers have chosen to focus on large, liquid corporate loans and syndicated capital markets transactions rather than lending to middle-market businesses;

 

    recent regulatory changes, including the introduction of international capital and liquidity requirements for banks under the 2012 Basel III Accords, or Basel III, have decreased their capacity to hold non-investment grade leveraged loans, causing banks to curtail lending to middle-market companies;

 

    hedge funds and collateralized loan obligation managers are less likely to pursue investment opportunities in our target market as a result of reduced availability of funding for new investments; and

 

    consolidation of regional banks into money center banks has reduced their focus on middle-market lending.

As a result, we believe that less competition facilitates higher quality deal flow and allows for greater selectivity throughout the investment process.

 

    Robust Demand for Debt Capital. According to Pitchbook, a market research firm, private equity firms had approximately $[     ] billion of uncalled capital as of [    ], 20[    ]. They have expanded their focus to include middle-market opportunities due to the lack of opportunities in large capital buyout transactions. We expect the large amount of uninvested capital and the expanded focus on middle-market opportunities to drive buyout activity over the next several years, which should, in turn, continue to create lending opportunities for us.

 

    Attractive Deal Pricing and Structures. We believe that, in general, middle-market debt investments are priced more attractively to lenders than larger, more liquid, public debt financings, due to the more limited universe of lenders as well as the highly negotiated nature of these financings. Middle-market transactions tend to offer stronger covenant packages, higher interest rates, lower leverage levels and better call protection compared to larger financings. In addition, middle-market loans typically offer other investor protections such as default penalties, lien protection, change of control provisions and information rights for lenders.


 

S-4


    Specialized Lending Requirements. We believe that several factors render many U.S. financial institutions ill-suited to lend to U.S. middle-market companies. For example, based on the Investment Team’s experience, lending to private U.S. middle-market companies is generally more labor-intensive than lending to larger companies due to the smaller size of each investment and the fragmented nature of information for such companies. Lending to smaller capitalization companies requires due diligence and underwriting practices consistent with the demands and economic limitations of the middle-market and may also require more extensive ongoing monitoring by the lender. As a result, middle-market companies historically have been served by a limited segment of the lending community.

Competitive Strengths

We believe that the Adviser’s disciplined approach to origination, portfolio construction and risk management should allow us to achieve favorable risk-adjusted returns while preserving our capital. We believe that the following competitive strengths provide positive returns for our investors:

 

    Large and Experienced Team with Substantial Resources. The Adviser and its Investment Team is led by Messrs. Mauer and Jansen who each has over [    ] years of experience investing in, providing corporate finance services to, restructuring and consulting with middle-market companies. Messrs. Mauer and Jansen are supported by four additional investment professionals, who together have over [    ] combined years of structuring strategic capital for business expansion, refinancings, capital restructuring, post-reorganization financing and servicing the general corporate needs of middle-market companies. We believe that the Investment Team and its resources provide a significant advantage and contribute to the strength of our business and enhance the quantity and quality of investment opportunities available to us.

 

    Capitalize on the Investment Team’s Extensive Relationships with Middle-Market Companies, Private Equity Sponsors and Intermediaries. The members of the Investment Team have extensive networks for sourcing investment opportunities through corporate relationships and relationships with private equity firms, investment banks, restructuring advisors, law firms, boutique advisory firms and distressed/specialty lenders. We believe that the strength of these relationships in conjunction with the Investment Team’s ability to structure financing solutions for companies that incorporate credit protections at attractive returns for us provide us with a competitive advantage in identifying investment opportunities in our target market. In addition, pursuant to the terms of our relationship with Stifel and subject to certain restrictions, Stifel must use its commercially reasonable efforts to present to the Adviser to review and bid on, Stifel Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated-originated leveraged finance and high yield corporate debt opportunities consistent with our investment strategy.

 

   

Disciplined Underwriting Policies and Rigorous Portfolio Management. Messrs. Mauer and Jansen have an established credit analysis and investment process to analyze investment opportunities thoroughly. This process, followed by the Investment Team, includes structuring loans with appropriate covenants and pricing loans based on our knowledge of the middle-market and our rigorous underwriting standards. We



 

S-5


 

focus on capital preservation by extending loans to portfolio companies with assets that we believe will retain sufficient value to repay us even in depressed markets or under liquidation scenarios. Each investment is analyzed from its initial stages by either Mr. Mauer or Mr. Jansen, as the Adviser’s Co-Chief Investment Officers, and a senior investment professional of the Investment Team. Every initial investment requires approval by a majority of the Adviser’s investment committee and such majority must include both Messrs. Mauer and Jansen. The Adviser’s investment committee consists of Messrs. Mauer, Jansen, Muns and Nitka. Every follow-on investment decision in an existing portfolio company and every investment disposition require approval by at least a majority of the Adviser’s investment committee. Under the supervision of Messrs. Mauer and Jansen, the Investment Team’s senior investment professionals also monitor the portfolio for developments on a daily basis, perform credit updates on each investment, review financial performance on at least a quarterly basis, and have regular discussions with the management of portfolio companies. We believe the Adviser’s investment and monitoring process and the depth and experience of the Investment Team gives us a competitive advantage in identifying investments and evaluating risks and opportunities throughout the life cycle of an investment.

 

    Ability to Structure Investments Creatively. Our Investment Team has the expertise and ability to structure investments across all levels of a company’s capital structure. These individuals have extensive experience in cash flow, asset-based lending, workout situations and investing in distressed debt, which should enable us to take advantage of attractive investments in recently restructured companies. Furthermore, with the capital raised in our initial public offering, we believe we are in a better position to leverage the existing knowledge and relationships that the Investment Team has developed to lead investments that meet our investment criteria. We believe that current market conditions allow us to structure attractively priced debt investments and may allow us to incorporate other return-enhancing mechanisms such as commitment fees, original issue discounts, early redemption premiums, payment-in-kind (“PIK”) interest and certain forms of equity securities.

Investment Strategy

We invest in unitranche loans, standalone second and first lien loans, and selectively in unsecured debt, bonds and in the equity of portfolio companies through warrants and other instruments, in most cases taking advantage of a potential benefit from an increase in the value of such portfolio company as part of an overall relationship. We seek to invest primarily in middle-market companies that have annual revenues of at least $50 million and EBITDA of at least $15 million. Our investments typically range in size from $5 million to $25 million. We may invest in smaller or larger companies if there is an attractive opportunity, especially when there are dislocations in the capital markets, including the high yield and large syndicated loan markets. During such dislocations, we expect to see more deep value investment opportunities offering prospective returns that are disproportionate to the associated risk profile. We focus on companies with leading market positions, significant asset or franchise values, strong free cash flow and experienced senior management teams, with an emphasis on companies with high-quality sponsors.

Our primary investment objective is to maximize current income and capital appreciation by investing directly in privately held middle-market companies. The Adviser pursues investments for us with favorable risk-adjusted returns, including debt investments that offer cash origination fees and lower leverage levels. The Adviser



 

S-6


seeks to structure our debt investments with strong protections, including default penalties, information rights, and affirmative and negative financial covenants, such as lien protection and restrictions concerning change of control. We believe these protections, coupled with the other features of our investments, allow us to reduce our risk of capital loss and achieve attractive risk-adjusted returns, although there can be no assurance that we are always able to structure our investments to minimize risk of loss and achieve attractive risk-adjusted returns.

Investment Criteria

The Investment Team uses the following investment criteria and guidelines to evaluate prospective portfolio companies. However, not all of these criteria and guidelines are used or met in connection with each of our investments.

 

    Established companies with a history of positive operating cash flow. We seek to invest in established companies with sound historical financial performance. The Adviser typically focuses on companies with a history of profitability on an operating cash flow basis. We do not intend to invest in start-up companies or companies with speculative business plans.

 

    Defensible and sustainable business. We seek to invest in companies with proven products and/or services that provide a competitive advantage versus its competitors or new entrants. The Adviser places an emphasis on the strength of historical operations and profitability and the generation of free cash flow to reinvest in the business or to utilize for debt service. The Adviser also focuses on the relative strength of the valuation and liquidity of collateral used to provide security for our investments, when applicable.

 

    Seasoned management team with meaningful equity ownership. The Adviser generally requires that our portfolio companies have a seasoned management team, with strong corporate governance. The Adviser also seeks to invest in companies with management teams that have meaningful equity ownership. The Adviser believes that companies that have proper incentives in place, including having significant equity interests, motivate management teams to enhance enterprise value, which will act in accordance with our interests.

 

    Significant Invested Capital. The Adviser seeks investments in portfolio companies where it believes that the aggregate enterprise value significantly exceeds aggregate indebtedness, after consideration of our investment. The Adviser believes that the existence of significant underlying equity value (i.e., the amount by which the aggregate enterprise value exceeds the aggregate indebtedness) provides important support to our debt investments.

 

    Investment Partnerships. We seek to invest where private equity sponsors have demonstrated capabilities in building enterprise value. In addition, we seek to partner with specialty lenders and other financial institutions. The Adviser believes that private equity sponsors and specialty lenders can serve as committed partners and advisors that will actively work with the Adviser, the company and its management team to meet company goals and create value.

 

    Ability to exert meaningful influence. We target investment opportunities in which we will be a significant investor in the tranche and in which we can add value through active participation in the direction of the company, sometimes through advisory positions.


 

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    Exit strategy. We generally seek to invest in companies that the Adviser believes possess attributes that will provide us with the ability to exit our investments. We typically expect to exit our investments through one of three scenarios: (i) the sale of the company resulting in repayment of all outstanding debt, (ii) the recapitalization of the company through which our loan is replaced with debt or equity from a third party or parties or (iii) the repayment of the initial or remaining principal amount of our loan then outstanding at maturity. In some investments, there may be scheduled amortization of some portion of our loan, which would result in a partial exit of our investment prior to the maturity of the loan.

Conflicts of Interests

As described more fully below, we have entered into certain agreements and arrangements with Stifel, Cyrus Capital Partners, L.P. (“Cyrus Capital”) and certain funds (the “Cyrus Funds”) managed by Cyrus Capital that may cause conflicts of interest. In addition, as described more fully below, Stifel and the Cyrus Funds own, in the aggregate, approximately 44% of our total outstanding common stock. The shares held by Stifel and the Cyrus Funds are generally freely tradable in the public market, subject to the volume limitations, applicable holding periods and other provisions of Rule 144 under the Securities Act. Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock, the availability of such common stock for sale or the registration of such common stock for sale and the ability of our stockholders, including Stifel and the Cyrus Funds, to sell their respective shares at a price per share that is below our then current net asset value per share could adversely affect the prevailing market prices for our common stock. If this occurs and continues, it could impair our ability to raise additional capital through the sale of securities should we desire to do so and negatively impact the market of our common stock. See “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Common Stock—Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market may have an adverse effect on the market price of our common stock” in the accompanying prospectus.

Other Conflicts of Interest

We may also have conflicts of interest arising out of the investment advisory activities of the Adviser. The Adviser may in the future manage other investment funds, accounts or investment vehicles that invest or may invest in assets eligible for purchase by us. To the extent that we compete with entities managed by the Adviser or any of its affiliates for a particular investment opportunity, the Adviser will allocate investment opportunities across the entities for which such opportunities are appropriate, consistent with (a) its internal investment allocation policies, (b) the requirements of the Advisers Act, and (c) certain restrictions under the 1940 Act regarding co-investments with affiliates.

See “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—There are significant potential conflicts of interest that could affect our investment returns,” “—Conflict related to obligations the Adviser or its affiliates have to other clients” and “—The Adviser’s incentive fee structure may create incentives to it that are not fully aligned with the interests of our stockholders” in the accompanying prospectus.

Corporate Information

Our principal executive offices are currently located at 601 Lexington Avenue, 26th Floor, New York, New York 10022, and our telephone number is (212) 257-5199. We maintain a website located at www.cmfn-inc.com. Information on our website is not incorporated into or a part of this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus.



 

S-8


[We are an “emerging growth company,” within the meaning of the JOBS Act. As an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of specified reduced disclosure and other requirements that are otherwise applicable generally to public companies. We will remain an emerging growth company until the earlier of (a) the last day of the fiscal year: (i) following the fifth anniversary of the completion of our initial public offering, which was in February 2014; (ii) in which we have total annual gross revenue of at least $1.07 billion; or (iii) in which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer, which means the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the prior June 30th, and (b) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt during the prior three-year period.]



 

S-9


THE RIGHTS OFFERING

The Offer

We are issuing to stockholders of record, or record date stockholders, on [    ], [    ], or the record date, one [transferable/non-transferable] right for each share of our common stock held on the record date. Each holder of the rights, or rights holder, is entitled to subscribe for one share of our common stock for every rights held [, which we refer to as the primary subscription right]. We will not issue fractional shares of our common stock upon the exercise of rights; accordingly, rights may be exercised only in multiples of [    ].

[The rights are transferable and will be listed for trading on [the NASDAQ] under the symbol “[    ]” during the course of this offer. See “The Offer.”]

Subscription Price

The subscription price per share will be [describe means of computing subscription price]. [Because the subscription price will be determined on the expiration date, rights holders who decide to acquire shares pursuant to the primary subscription right or pursuant to the over-subscription privilege will not know the actual purchase price of those shares when they make that decision.] See “The Offer—Subscription Price.”

[Over-Subscription Privilege

Record date stockholders who fully exercise all rights issued to them (other than those rights which cannot be exercised because they represent the right to acquire less than one share) are entitled to subscribe for additional shares of our common stock which were not subscribed for by other stockholders, which we refer to as the remaining shares. If sufficient remaining shares of our common stock are available, all record date stockholders’ over-subscription requests will be honored in full. In addition, any non-record date stockholder who exercises rights is entitled to subscribe for remaining shares that are not otherwise subscribed for by record date stockholders. Shares acquired pursuant to the over-subscription privilege are subject to certain limitations and pro-rata allocations. See “The Offer—Over-Subscription Privilege.”]

Purpose of the Offer

Our Board of Directors has determined that it would be in the best interest of the Company and its stockholders to increase the capital available for making additional investments, as well as to pay operating expenses, temporarily repay debt and generally enhance our liquidity. We believe that we must have sufficient liquidity available to remain a credible source of capital. This offering will increase the capital available for us to make additional investments. This offering gives existing stockholders the right to purchase additional shares at a price that is expected to be below market without incurring any commission or charge, while providing us access to additional capital resources. In connection with the approval of this rights offering, our board of directors considered, among other things, the following factors:



 

S-10


    the subscription price relative to the market price and to our net asset value per share, including the likelihood that the subscription price will be below our net asset value per share;

 

    the increased capital to be available upon completion of this rights offering for us to make additional investments consistent with our investment objective;

 

    the dilution to be experienced by non-exercising stockholders;

 

    the dilutive effect the offering will have on the dividends per share we distribute subsequent to completion of the offering;

 

    [the terms and expenses in connection with the offering relative to other alternatives for raising capital, including fees payable to the dealer manager;]

 

    the size of the offering in relation to the number of shares outstanding;

 

    [the fact that the rights will be listed on [the NASDAQ] during the subscription period;]

 

    the market price of our common stock, both before and after the announcement of the rights offering;

 

    the general condition of the securities markets; and

 

    any impact on operating expenses associated with an increase in capital, including an increase in fees payable to the Adviser.

There can be no assurance of the amount of dilution that a stockholder will experience or that the rights offering will be successful.

[The purpose of setting the determination of the subscription price upon the expiration of the offer is to attract the maximum participation of stockholders in the offer, with minimum dilution to non-participating stockholders.]

[The transferable rights will allow non-participating stockholders the potential of receiving cash payment upon the sale of the rights, receipt of which may be viewed as partial compensation for the dilution of their interests.]

We cannot assure you that this offering will be successful, or that by increasing the amount of our available capital, our aggregate expenses and, correspondingly, our expense ratio will be lowered. In addition, the management fee we pay to the Adviser is based upon our gross assets, which include any cash or cash equivalents that we have not yet invested in the securities of portfolio companies.

[In determining that this offer is in our best interest and in the best interests of our stockholders, we have retained [ ], the dealer manager for this offer, to provide us with financial advisory, marketing, and soliciting services relating to this offer, including advice with respect to the structure, timing, and terms of the offer. In this regard, our board of directors considered, among other things, using a fixed pricing versus variable pricing mechanism, the benefits and drawbacks of conducting a non-transferable versus a transferable rights offering, the effect on us if this offer is not fully subscribed, and the experience of the dealer manager in conducting rights offerings.]



 

S-11


[Although we have no present intention to do so, we may, in the future and in our discretion, choose to make additional rights offerings from time to time for a number of shares and on terms which may or may not be similar to this offer, provided that our Board of Directors must determine that each subsequent rights offering is in the best interest of our stockholders. Any such future rights offering will be made in accordance with the 1940 Act.]

[Sale of Rights

The rights are evidenced by a subscription certificate and are transferable until [    ], (or if the offer is extended, until the extended expiration date). The rights will be listed for trading on [the NASDAQ] under the symbol “[    ].” We and the dealer manager will use our best efforts to ensure that an adequate trading market for the rights will exist. However, no assurance can be given that a market for the rights will develop. Trading in the rights on [the NASDAQ] may be conducted until close of trading on [    ] on [    ], (or, if the offer is extended, until the extended expiration date). See “The Offer—Sale of Rights.”]

Use of Proceeds

We plan to use the net proceeds of this offering to make new investments in portfolio companies in accordance with our investment objective and strategies as described in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, and for general working capital purposes. We may also use a portion of the net proceeds to reduce any of our outstanding borrowings under our Financing Facilities. Pending such use, we will invest the net proceeds primarily in high quality, short-term debt securities consistent with our business development company election and our election to be taxed as a RIC.

We estimate that it will take less than six months for us to substantially invest the net proceeds of any offering made pursuant to this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, depending on the availability of attractive opportunities, market conditions and the amount raised. However, we can offer no assurance that we will be able to achieve this goal.

Amendments and Termination

We reserve the right to amend the terms and conditions of this offering, whether the amended terms are more or less favorable to you. We will comply with all applicable laws, including the federal securities laws, in connection with any such amendment. In addition, we may, in our sole discretion, terminate the rights offering at any time prior to delivery of the shares of our common stock offered hereby, if the subscription price is less than [    ]% of the net asset value attributable to a share of common stock disclosed in the most recent periodic report we filed with the SEC. If this rights offering is terminated, all rights will expire without value and the subscription agent will return as soon as practicable all exercise payments, without interest. [No amounts paid to acquire rights on [insert name of any applicable exchange on which rights are listed] or otherwise will be returned.]



 

S-12


Dilutive Effects

Any stockholder who chooses not to participate in the offering should expect to own a smaller interest in us upon completion of the offering. The offering will dilute the ownership interest and voting power of stockholders who do not fully exercise their basic subscription rights. Further, because the net proceeds per share from the offering may be lower than our net asset value per share, the offering may reduce our net asset value per share. The amount of dilution that a stockholder will experience could be substantial.

How to Obtain Subscription Information

 

    Contact your broker-dealer, trust company, bank, or other nominee where your rights are held, or

 

    Contact the information agent, [    ], at [    ]. Broker-dealers and nominees may call [     ].

How to Subscribe

 

    Deliver a completed subscription certificate and payment to the subscription agent by the expiration date of the rights offering, or

 

    If your shares are held in an account with your broker-dealer, trust company, bank, or other nominee, which qualifies as an Eligible Guarantor Institution under Rule 17Ad-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the “Exchange Act,” have your Eligible Guarantor Institution deliver a notice of guaranteed delivery to the subscription agent by the expiration date of the rights offering.

Subscription Agent

[    ] will act as the subscription agent in connection with this offer.

Information Agent

[    ] will act as the information agent in connection with this offer. You may contact toll-free with questions at [     ]. Broker-dealers and nominees may call [    ].

[Distribution Arrangements

[    ] will act as dealer manager for the offer. Under the terms and subject to the conditions contained in the dealer manager agreement, the dealer manager will provide financial advisory services and marketing assistance in connection with the offer and will solicit the exercise of rights and participation in the over-subscription privilege by our stockholders. The offer is not contingent upon any number of rights being exercised. We have agreed to pay the dealer manager a fee for its financial advisory, marketing, and soliciting services equal to [     ]% of the subscription price per share for shares issued pursuant to the exercise of rights, including pursuant to the over-subscription privilege. The dealer manager may re-allow a portion of its fees to other broker-dealers that have assisted in soliciting the exercise of rights.]



 

S-13


Important Dates to Remember

 

Record Date

  

Subscription Period

     (1

Measurement Period for Subscription Price(2)

     (1

Expiration Date

     (1

Deadline for Delivery of Subscription Certificates and Payment for Shares(3)

     (1

Deadline for Delivery of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery(3)

     (1

Deadline for Delivery of Subscription Certificates and Payment for Shares pursuant to Notice of Guaranteed Delivery

     (1

Confirmations Mailed to Participants

     (1

Final Payment for Shares

     (1

 

(1) Unless the offer is extended.
(2) The subscription price will be [describe means of computing subscription price].
(3) Participating rights holders must, by the expiration date of the offer (unless the offer is extended), either (a) deliver a subscription certificate and payment for shares or (b) cause to be delivered on their behalf a notice of guaranteed delivery.


 

S-14


FEES AND EXPENSES

The following table is intended to assist you in understanding the costs and expenses that you will bear directly or indirectly. We caution you that some of the percentages indicated in the table below are estimates and may vary. Except where the context suggests otherwise, whenever this prospectus supplement contains a reference to fees or expenses paid by “you,” “us,” or the “Company,” or that “we” will pay fees or expenses, stockholders will indirectly bear such fees or expenses as investors in us.

 

Stockholder transaction expenses:

  

Sales load paid (as a percentage of offering price)

     [    ] %(1) 

Offering expenses borne by us (as a percentage of offering price)

     [    ] %(2) 

Dividend reinvestment plan expenses

     [    ] %(3) 
  

 

 

 

Total stockholder transaction expenses (as a percentage of offering price)

     [    ]

Annual expenses (as a percentage of average net assets attributable to common stock):

     (4) 

Base management fees

     [    ] %(5) 

Incentive fees payable under the investment advisory agreement (20.0%)

     [    ] %(6) 

Interest payments on borrowed funds

     [    ] %(7) 

Other expenses (estimated)

     [    ] %(8) 
  

 

 

 

Total annual expenses (estimated)

     [    ]
  

 

 

 

 

(1) Represents the commission with respect to the subscription rights being sold in this offering.
(2) The offering expenses of this offering are estimated to be approximately $ [    ].
(3) The expenses of the dividend reinvestment plan are included in “other expenses.”
(4) The “net assets attributable to common stock” used to calculate the percentages in this table is our net assets of $[    ] at [    ], 20[    ].
(5) Reflects the aggregate amount of base management fees that we estimate will be payable during the next twelve months. Our base management fee, payable quarterly in arrears, is 1.75% of our gross assets, including assets purchased with borrowed amounts or other forms of leverage and excluding cash and cash equivalents and is estimated by assuming the base management fee remains consistent with the base management fee incurred for the quarter ended [    ], 20[    ]. See “Management Agreements—Investment Advisory Agreement” of the accompanying prospectus.
(6) Reflects the aggregate amount of incentive fees that we estimate will be payable during the next twelve months. See “Management Agreements—Investment Advisory Agreement” of the accompanying prospectus.

The incentive fee consists of two components, ordinary income and capital gains:

The ordinary income component, which is payable quarterly in arrears, equals 20.0% of the excess, if any, of our “Pre-incentive Fee Net Investment Income” over a 2.0% quarterly (8.0% annualized) hurdle rate, expressed as a rate of return on the value of our net assets attributable to our common stock, and a “catch-up” provision, measured as of the end of each calendar quarter. Under this provision, in any calendar quarter, the Adviser receives no incentive fee until our net investment income equals the hurdle rate of 2.0% but then receives, as a “catch-up,” 100% of our pre-incentive fee net investment income with respect to that portion of such pre-incentive fee net investment income, if any, that exceeds the hurdle rate but is less than 2.5% subject to a deferral



 

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of non-cash amounts. The effect of the “catch-up” provision is that, subject to the deferral provisions discussed below, if pre-incentive fee net investment income exceeds 2.5% in any calendar quarter, the Adviser will receive 20.0% of our pre-incentive fee net investment income as if a hurdle rate did not apply. The ordinary income component of the incentive fee will be computed on income that may include interest that is accrued but not yet received in cash. The portion of such incentive fee that is attributable to deferred interest (sometimes referred to as PIK interest, or OID) will be paid to the Adviser only if and to the extent we actually receive such interest in cash, and any accrual thereof will be reversed if and to the extent such interest is reversed in connection with any write-off or similar treatment of the investment giving rise to any deferred interest accrual. Any reversal of such amounts would reduce net income for the quarter by the net amount of the reversal (after taking into account the reversal of incentive fees payable) and would result in a reduction and possibly elimination of the incentive fees for such quarter. Notwithstanding any such incentive fee reduction or elimination, there is no accumulation of amounts on the hurdle rate from quarter to quarter and accordingly there is no clawback of amounts previously paid if subsequent quarters are below the quarterly hurdle and there is no delay of payment if prior quarters are below the quarterly hurdle.

The capital gains component of the incentive fee equals 20.0% of our “Incentive Fee Capital Gains,” if any, which equals our aggregate cumulative realized capital gains from inception through the end of each calendar year, computed net of our aggregate cumulative realized capital losses and our aggregate cumulative unrealized capital depreciation, less the aggregate amount of any previously paid capital gain incentive fees. The second component of the incentive fee is payable, in arrears, at the end of each calendar year (or upon termination of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as of the termination date). See “Management Agreements—Management Fee and Incentive Fee” of the accompanying prospectus.

 

(7) We may borrow funds from time to time to make investments to the extent we determine that the economic situation is conducive to doing so. The table includes all estimated expected borrowing costs in connection with the Financing Facilities. The costs associated with our outstanding borrowings are indirectly borne by our stockholders.
(8) “Other expenses” represents our estimated amounts for the current fiscal year, including our overhead expenses, including payments under the administration agreement based on our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by the Adviser. See “Management Agreements —Administration Agreement” of the accompanying prospectus.

EXAMPLE

The following example demonstrates the projected dollar amount of total cumulative expenses that would be incurred over various periods with respect to a hypothetical investment in us. In calculating the following expense amounts, we have assumed that our annual operating expenses would remain at the levels set forth in the table above, and that you would pay a sales load of [ ]% (the underwriting discount to be paid by us with respect to common stock sold by us in this offering).

 

     1 Year      3 Years      5 Years      10 Years  

You would pay the following expenses on a $1,000 investment, assuming a 5% annual return

   $ [        $ [        $ [        $ [    

While the example assumes, as required by the SEC, a 5% annual return, our performance will vary and may result in a return greater or less than 5%. Because the income incentive fee under our investment advisory agreement is unlikely to be significant assuming a 5% annual return, the example assumes that the 5% annual return



 

S-16


will be generated entirely through the realization of capital gains on our assets and, as a result, will trigger the payment of a capital gains incentive fee under our investment advisory agreement. If we achieve sufficient returns on our investments, including through the realization of capital gains, to trigger a greater incentive fee, our expenses, and returns to our investors, would be higher. In addition, while the example assumes reinvestment of all distributions at net asset value, participants in our dividend reinvestment plan will receive a number of shares of our common stock, determined by dividing the total dollar amount of the distribution payable to a participant by the greater of (a) the current net asset value per share of our common stock and (b) 95% of the market price per share of our common stock at the close of trading on the payment date fixed by our board of directors.

This example and the expenses in the table above should not be considered a representation of our future expenses, and actual expenses (including the cost of debt, if any, and other expenses) may be greater or less than those shown.



 

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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Some of the statements in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus constitute forward-looking statements because they relate to future events or our future performance or financial condition. The forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may include statements as to:

 

    our future operating results;

 

    our business prospects and the prospects of our portfolio companies;

 

    the effect of investments that we expect to make;

 

    our contractual arrangements and relationships with third parties;

 

    our contractual arrangements and relationships with Stifel and Cyrus Capital;

 

    actual and potential conflicts of interest with the Adviser;

 

    the dependence of our future success on the general economy and its effect on the industries in which we invest;

 

    the ability of our portfolio companies to achieve their objectives;

 

    the use of borrowed money to finance a portion of our investments;

 

    the adequacy of our financing sources and working capital;

 

    the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operations of our portfolio companies;

 

    the ability of the Adviser to locate suitable investments for us and to monitor and administer our investments;

 

    the ability of the Adviser to attract and retain highly talented professionals;

 

    our ability to qualify and maintain our qualification as a RIC and as a business development company; and

 

    the effect of future changes in laws or regulations (including the interpretation of these laws and regulations by regulatory authorities) and conditions in our operating areas, particularly with respect to business development companies or RICs.

Such forward-looking statements may include statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “may,” “might,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “could,” “can,” “would,” “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “predict,” “potential,” “plan” or similar words.

We have based the forward-looking statements included in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus on information available to us on the date of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in our forward-looking statements, and future results could differ materially from historical performance. We undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by law or SEC rule or regulation. You are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you, including in the form of a prospectus supplement or post-effective amendment to the registration statement to which this prospectus supplement relates, or through reports that we in the future may file with the SEC, including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.



 

S-18


You should understand that, under Sections 27A(b)(2)(B) of the Securities Act and Section 21E(b)(2)B of the Exchange Act, the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 do not apply to statements made in connection with any offering of securities pursuant to this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.



 

S-19


SUPPLEMENTARY RISK FACTORS

[Insert any supplementary risk factors]

 

S-20


USE OF PROCEEDS

If shares of our common stock are sold at the estimated subscription price of $[    ], the net proceeds of the offer will be approximately $[    ], after deducting dealer manager fees of approximately $[    ] and other expenses related to this offer payable by us estimated at approximately $[    ]. There can be no assurance that all the rights will be exercised in full.

We plan to use the net proceeds of this offering to make new investments in portfolio companies in accordance with our investment objective and strategies as described in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, and for general working capital purposes. We may also use a portion of the net proceeds to reduce any of our outstanding borrowings under our Financing Facilities. Pending such use, we will invest the net proceeds primarily in high quality, short-term debt securities consistent with our business development company election and our election to be taxed as a RIC.

We estimate that it will take less than six months for us to substantially invest the net proceeds of any offering made pursuant to this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, depending on the availability of attractive opportunities, market conditions and the amount raised. However, we can offer no assurance that we will be able to achieve this goal.

 

S-21


CAPITALIZATION

The following table sets forth our capitalization:

 

    on an actual basis as of [        ], 20[    ]; and

 

    on an as-adjusted basis to reflect the sale of shares of our common stock in this offering assuming all rights are exercised at the estimated subscription price of $[    ] and our receipt of the estimated neet proceeds from the sale.

This table should be read in conjunction with “Use of Proceeds” included in this prospectus supplement and our “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and financial statements and notes thereto included in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.

 

    

As of         , 20[    ]

    

Actual

  

As Adjusted )

     (in thousands)    (in thousands)

Assets:

     

Investments at fair value

   $    $

Cash and cash equivalents

   $    $

Interest and dividend receivable

   $    $

Other assets

   $    $

Total assets

   $    $

Liabilities:

     

Term Financing (net of deferred financing costs)

   $    $

2017 UBS Revolving Financing (net of deferred financing costs)

   $    $

Other Liabilities

   $    $

Total Liabilities

   $    $

Net Assets:

     

Common stock, par value $0.001 per share; [    ] shares authorized, [    ] shares issued and outstanding, [    ] shares issued and outstanding, as adjusted, respectively

   $    $

Capital in excess of par value

   $    $

Net realized gains on investments

   $    $

Net unrealized appreciation on investments

   $    $

(Distributions in excess of) undistributed net investment income

   $    $

Total Net Assets

   $    $
  

 

  

 

Total Capitalization

   $    $
  

 

  

 

 

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PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK AND DISTRIBUTIONS

Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “CMFN.” In connection with our initial public offering, our shares of common stock began trading on February 6, 2014, and before that date, there was no established trading market for our common stock.

The following table sets forth, for each fiscal quarter during the last three most recently completed fiscal years and the current fiscal year to date, the range of high and low closing prices of our common stock as reported on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, and the sales price as a percentage of our net asset value, or NAV.

 

           Closing Sales
Price(2)
             
     NAV
Per Share(1)
    High     Low     Premium or
Discount of
High Sales
to NAV(3)
    Premium or
Discount of
Low Sales
to NAV(3)
 

Fiscal year Ended

          

June 30, 20[    ]

          

First quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

June 30, 20[    ]

          

Fourth quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

Third quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

Second quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

First quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

June 30, 20[    ]

          

Fourth quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

Third quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

Second quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

First quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

June 30, 20[    ]

          

Fourth quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

Third quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

Second quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

First quarter

     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]     [     ]%     [     ]%

 

(1) NAV is determined as of the last date in the relevant quarter and therefore may not reflect the NAV per share on the date of the high and low sales prices. The NAVs shown are based on outstanding shares at the end of each period.
(2) Closing sales price is determined as the high or low closing sales price noted within the respective quarter, not adjusted for dividends.
(3) Calculated as of the respective high or low sales price divided by the quarter end NAV.

On [    ], 20[    ], the last reported sales price of our common stock was $[    ] per share. As of [    ], 20[    ], we had [    ] stockholders of record, which did not include stockholders for whom shares are held in nominee or street name.

Shares of business development companies may trade at a market price that is less than the value of the net assets attributable to those shares. The possibility that our shares of common stock will trade at a discount from net asset value or at premiums that are unsustainable over the long term are separate and distinct from the risk that our net asset value will decrease. Since they began trading on February 6, 2014, in connection with our initial public offering, our shares of common stock have traded at times at a discount to the net assets attributable to those shares.

 

S-23


To the extent that we have income available, we intend to make quarterly distributions to our stockholders. Our quarterly stockholder distributions, if any, will be determined by our board of directors. Any stockholder distribution to our stockholders will be declared out of assets legally available for distribution.

We have elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code. To maintain RIC tax treatment, we must distribute at least 90% of our net ordinary income and net short-term capital gains in excess of our net long-term capital losses, if any, to our stockholders. In order to avoid certain U.S. federal excise taxes imposed on RICs, we must also distribute during each calendar year an amount at least equal to the sum of: (a) 98% of our net ordinary income for such calendar year; (b) 98.2% of our capital gain net income for the one-year period ending on October 31 of the calendar year; and (c) any net ordinary income and capital gain net income for preceding years that were not distributed during such years and on which we previously paid no U.S. federal income tax. We currently intend to make sufficient distributions each calendar year to avoid incurring excise tax, but we may in the future defer distributions and incur excise tax.

We currently intend to distribute net capital gains (i.e., net long-term capital gains in excess of net short-term capital losses), if any, at least annually out of the assets legally available for such distributions. However, we may decide in the future to retain such capital gains for investment and elect to treat such gains as deemed distributions to you. If this happens, you will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as if you had received an actual distribution of the capital gains that we retain and reinvested the net after tax proceeds in us. In this situation, you would be eligible to claim a tax credit (or in certain circumstances a tax refund) equal to your allocable share of the tax we paid on the capital gains deemed distributed to you. See “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations” of the accompanying prospectus. We cannot assure you that we will achieve results that will permit us to pay any cash distributions, and if we issue senior securities, we may be prohibited from making distributions if doing so would cause us to fail to maintain the asset coverage ratios stipulated by the 1940 Act or if such distributions are limited by the terms of any of our borrowings.

We have adopted an “opt out” dividend reinvestment plan for our common stockholders. Unless you elect to receive your distributions in cash, we intend to make such distributions in additional shares of our common stock under our dividend reinvestment plan. Although distributions paid in the form of additional shares of our common stock will generally be subject to U.S. federal, state and local taxes in the same manner as cash distributions, investors participating in our dividend reinvestment plan will not receive any corresponding cash distributions with which to pay any such applicable taxes. If you hold shares of our common stock in the name of a broker or financial intermediary, you should contact such broker or financial intermediary regarding your election to receive distributions in cash in lieu of shares of our common stock. Any distributions reinvested through the issuance of shares through our dividend reinvestment plan will increase our gross assets on which the base management fee and the incentive fee are determined and paid to our Adviser. See “Dividend Reinvestment Plan” of the accompanying prospectus.

The following table summarizes our quarterly cash distributions, including dividends and returns of capital, if any, per share that have been declared by our board of directors during the three most recently completed fiscal years:

 

S-24


Fiscal Year Ended

   Date Declared      Record Date      Payment Date      Amount Per
Share
 

June 30, 20[    ]

           

First Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

June 30, 20[    ]

           

Fourth Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

Third Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

Second Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

First Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

June 30, 20[    ]

           

Fourth Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

Third Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

Second Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

First Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

June 30, 20[    ]

           

Fourth Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

Third Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

Second Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    

First Quarter

     [    ]        [    ]        [    ]      $ [    
           

 

 

 

Total

            $ [    
           

 

 

 

Tax characteristics of all dividends paid by us are reported to stockholders on Form 1099 after the end of the calendar year. Our future monthly dividends, if any, will be determined by our board of directors.

 

S-25


SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA

The following selected financial data as of and for the years ended June 30, 20[    ], 20[    ], 20[    ], 20[    ] and 20[    ] is derived from our consolidated financial statements which have been audited by [Ernst & Young, LLP], our [former] independent registered public accounting firm. The selected financial data at [    ], 20[    ], and for the [    ] months ended [    ], 20[    ], have been derived from unaudited financial data, but, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments that are necessary to present fairly the financial condition and operating results for such interim periods. Interim results as of and for the [    ] months ended [    ], 20[    ] are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending June 30, 20[    ]. The data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included elsewhere in this report.The financial information and other data below should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and related notes thereto and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included elsewhere in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.

 

Statement of

Operations Data:

   As of and for
the [    ]

months ended
[    ],
20[    ]
(unaudited)
    For the
year
ended

June 30,
20[    ]
    For the
year ended
June 30,
20[     ]
    For the
year
ended

June 30,
20[    ]
    For the
year ended
June 30,
20[    ]
    For the
year ended
June 30,
20[    ]
 

Total investment income

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Total expenses, net of fee waiver

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Net investment income

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Per Share Data:

            

Net asset value(1)

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [         [    

Net investment income

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [         [    

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [         [    

Distributions declared

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [         [    

Total return based on market value

   $ [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]% 
Balance Sheet Data:    At [    ],
20[    ]
    At June
30,

20[    ]
    At
June 30,

20[    ]
    At
June 30,

20[    ]
    At June 30,
20[    ]
    At June 30,
20[    ]
 

Investments at fair value

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ —    

Total assets

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Total liabilities

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Total net assets

   $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [       $ [    

Other Data:

            

Number of portfolio companies at period end

     [         [         [         [         [         [    

Weighted average yield on investments (at cost) at period end

     [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]%      [     ]% 

 

S-26


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. In addition to historical information, the following discussion and other parts of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus contain forward-looking information that involves risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated by such forward-looking information due to the factors discussed under “Risk Factors” and “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” appearing elsewhere in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.

[Insert from most recent periodic filing]

 

S-27


DILUTION

As of        , 20        , our NAV was $[    ] million, or approximately $[    ] per share. After giving effect to the sale of shares of our common stock in this offering, assuming all rights are exercised at the estimated subscription price of $[    ] per share, after deducting dealer manager fees and other expenses related to this offering payable by us, our pro forma NAV would have been approximately $[     ] million, or approximately $[    ] per share, representing an immediate dilution of approximately $[    ] per share to our existing stockholders.

The following table illustrates the dilutive effects of this offering on a per share basis, assuming all rights are exercised at the estimated subscription price of $[    ] per share, after deducting dealer manager fees and other expenses related to this offering payable by us:

 

     As of,  
     Actual      As
Adjusted
 

Net asset value per common share

   $      $  

 

     Months Ended,  
     Actual     As
Adjusted
 

Net increase in net assets resulting from net investment income per common share

   $ (1)    $ (2) 

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations per common share

   $ (1)    $ (2) 

Distributions per common share

   $     $ (3) 

 

(1) Basic and diluted, weighted average number of shares outstanding is [     ].
(2) Assumes that on [     ], [     ], the beginning of the indicated period, (a) all rights were exercised at the estimated subscription price of $[     ] per share and (b) shares of our common stock were issued upon exercise of such rights.
(3) Assumes actual cash distributions divided by adjusted shares, including shares issued upon exercise of rights.

Any stockholder who chooses not to participate in the offering should expect to own a smaller interest in us upon completion of the offering. The offering will dilute the ownership interest and voting power of stockholders who do not fully exercise their basic subscription rights. The amount of dilution that a stockholder will experience could be substantial. Further, because the net proceeds per share from the offering may be lower than our NAV per share, the offering may reduce our NAV per share. The amount of dilution that a stockholder will experience could be substantial.

Shares of closed-end investment companies have in the past frequently traded at discounts to their NAVs. This characteristic of closed-end investment companies is separate and distinct from the risk that our NAV per share may decline. We cannot predict whether our shares will trade above, at or below our NAV.

 

S-28


THE OFFER

Purpose of the Offer

Our Board of Directors has determined that it would be in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to increase the capital available for making additional investments, as well as to pay operating expenses and generally enhance our liquidity. We believe that we must have sufficient liquidity available to remain a credible source of capital. The offering will increase the capital available for us to make additional investments. The current offering gives existing stockholders the right to purchase additional shares at a price that is expected to be below market without incurring any commission or charge, while providing us access to such additional capital resources. In connection with the approval of this rights offering, our Board of Directors considered, among other things, the following factors:

 

    the subscription price relative to the market price and to our net asset value per share, including the likelihood that the subscription price will be below our net asset value per share;

 

    the increased capital to be available upon completion of the rights offering for us to make additional investments consistent with our investment objective;

 

    the dilution to be experienced by non-exercising stockholders;

 

    the dilutive effect the offering will have on the dividends per share we distribute subsequent to completion of the offering;

 

    [the terms and expenses in connection with the offering relative to other alternatives for raising capital, including fees payable to the dealer manager;]

 

    the size of the offering in relation to the number of shares outstanding;

 

    [the fact that the rights will be listed on [the NASDAQ] during the subscription period;]

 

    the market price of our common stock, both before and after the announcement of the rights offering;

 

    the general condition of the securities markets; and

 

    any impact on operating expenses associated with an increase in capital, including an increase in fees payable to the Adviser.

There can be no assurance of the amount of dilution that a stockholder will experience or that the rights offering will be successful.

The purpose of setting the determination of the subscription price upon the expiration of the offer is to attract the maximum participation of stockholders in the offer, with minimum dilution to non-participating stockholders.

[The transferable rights will allow non-participating stockholders the potential of receiving cash payment upon the sale of the rights, receipt of which may be viewed as partial compensation for the dilution of their interests.]

We cannot assure you that the current offering will be successful, or that by increasing the size of our available equity capital, our aggregate expenses and, correspondingly, our expense ratio will be lowered. In addition, the management fee we pay to the Adviser is based upon our gross assets, which include any cash or cash equivalents that we have not yet invested in the securities of portfolio companies.

 

S-29


[In determining that this offer was in our best interest and in the best interests of our stockholders, we have retained [    ], the dealer manager for this offering, to provide us with financial advisory, marketing, and soliciting services relating to this offer, including advice with respect to the structure, timing, and terms of the offer. In this regard, our Board of Directors considered, among other things, using a fixed pricing versus variable pricing mechanism, the benefits and drawbacks of conducting a non-transferable versus a transferable rights offering, the effect on us if this offer is not fully subscribed, and the experience of the dealer manager in conducting rights offerings.]

[Although we have no present intention to do so, we may, in the future and in our discretion, choose to make additional rights offerings from time to time for a number of shares and on terms which may or may not be similar to this offer, provided that our board of directors must determine that each subsequent rights offering is in the best interest of our stockholders. Any such future rights offering will be made in accordance with the 1940 Act.]

Terms of the Offer

We are issuing to record date stockholders [transferable/non-transferable] rights to subscribe for up to approximately [     ] shares. Each record date stockholder is being issued one [transferable/non-transferable] right for each whole share owned on the record date. The rights entitle each holder, or rights holder, to acquire at the subscription price one share for every [     ] rights held [, which we refer to as the primary subscription right]. Rights may be exercised at any time during the subscription period, which commences on [     ], [     ], the record date, and ends at [    ], New York City Time, on [     ], [     ], the expiration date, unless extended by us.

The rights are [transferable and will be listed for trading on [the NASDAQ] under the symbol “[     ]” during the course of the offer/non-transferable]. The shares of our common stock issued pursuant to an exercise of rights will be listed on [the NASDAQ] under the symbol “[     ].” The rights will be evidenced by subscription certificates which will be mailed to stockholders, except as discussed below under “—Foreign Stockholders.”

We will not issue fractional shares upon the exercise of rights; accordingly, rights may be exercised only in multiples of [     ].

The rights are [transferable/non-transferable]. [Rights holders who are not record date stockholders may purchase shares as described above, which we refer to as the primary subscription, and may be entitled to subscribe for shares pursuant to the over-subscription privilege (as described below).]

[Shares for which there is no subscription during the primary subscription will be offered, by means of the over-subscription privilege, first to record date stockholders who fully exercise the rights issued to them pursuant to this offering (other than those rights that cannot be exercised because they represent in the aggregate the right to acquire less than one share) and who wish to acquire more than the number of shares they are entitled to purchase pursuant to the exercise of their rights. In addition, any non-record date rights holder who exercises rights is entitled to subscribe for remaining shares that are not otherwise subscribed for by record date stockholders. Shares acquired pursuant to the over-subscription privilege are subject to certain limitations and pro-rata allocations. See “—Over-Subscription Privilege” below.]

 

S-30


For purposes of determining the number of shares a record date stockholder may acquire pursuant to the offer, broker-dealers, trust companies, banks, or others whose shares are held of record by Cede & Co., or “Cede,” or by any other depository or nominee will be deemed to be the holders of the rights that are issued to Cede or the other depository or nominee on their behalf.

There is no minimum number of rights which must be exercised in order for the offer to close.

[Over-Subscription Privilege

Shares not subscribed for by rights holders, which we refer to as remaining shares, will be offered, by means of the over-subscription privilege, first to record date stockholders who have fully exercised the rights issued to them and who wish to acquire more than the number of shares they are entitled to purchase pursuant to the basic subscription. Rights holders should indicate on the subscription certificate that they submit with respect to the exercise of the rights issued to them how many additional shares they are willing to acquire pursuant to the over-subscription privilege. If there are sufficient remaining shares, all record date stockholders’ over-subscription requests will be honored in full. If record date stockholder requests for shares pursuant to the over-subscription privilege exceed the remaining shares available, the available remaining shares will be allocated pro-rata among record date stockholders who over-subscribe based on the number of shares held on the record date. The percentage of remaining shares each over-subscribing stockholder may acquire will be rounded down to result in delivery of whole shares. The allocation process may involve a series of allocations to assure that the total number of remaining shares available for over-subscriptions is distributed on a pro-rata basis. The formula to be used in allocating the remaining shares is as follows:

 

Stockholder’s Record Date Position

  
Total Record Date Position of All Over-Subscribers   

×    Remaining Shares

Any rights holder, other than a record date stockholder, who exercises rights is entitled to subscribe for remaining shares that are not otherwise over-subscribed for by record date stockholders. These non-record date rights holders should indicate in the subscription certificate submitted with respect to the exercise of any rights how many shares they are willing to acquire pursuant to the over-subscription privilege. We cannot assure non-record date rights holders that they will receive shares pursuant to the over-subscription privilege.

If sufficient remaining shares are available after the over-subscription privileges for the record date stockholders have been allotted, then all over-subscriptions by non-record date rights holders will be honored in full. If the remaining shares are insufficient to permit such allocation, the remaining shares will be allocated pro-rata among the non-record date rights holders who wish to exercise their over-subscription privilege, based on the number of rights held by such rights holders on the expiration date. However, if this pro-rata allocation results in any holder being allocated a greater number of shares than the holder subscribed for pursuant to the exercise of the over-subscription privilege, then such holder will be allocated only such number of shares pursuant to the over-subscription privilege as such holder subscribed for. The formula to be used in allocating the shares available to non-record date rights holders exercising their over-subscription privilege is as follows:

 

S-31


Non-Record Date Rights Holder’s Rights

Ownership as of the Expiration Date

  

Total Rights Ownership as of the Expiration Date of Non-Record

 

  

× Shares Available for Non-Record Date

    Rights Holders Exercising Their Over-    Subscription Privilege

Date Rights Holders Exercising Their Over-Subscription Privilege   

Banks, brokers, trustees, and other nominee holders of rights will be required to certify to the subscription agent, before any over-subscription privilege may be exercised with respect to any particular beneficial owner, as to the aggregate number of rights exercised pursuant to the primary subscription and the number of shares subscribed for pursuant to the over-subscription privilege by such beneficial owner and that such beneficial owner’s primary subscription was exercised in full. We will not offer or sell in connection with this offer any shares that are not subscribed for pursuant to the primary subscription or the over-subscription privilege.]

Subscription Price

The subscription price for the shares to be issued pursuant to the offer will be [describe means of computing subscription price]. [Since the expiration date will be [    ], (unless we extend the subscription period), rights holders will not know the subscription price at the time of exercise and will be required initially to pay for both the shares subscribed for pursuant to the primary subscription right and, if eligible, any additional shares subscribed for pursuant to the over-subscription privilege at the estimated subscription price of $[     ] per share.] See “—Payment for Shares” below. Rights holders who exercise their rights will have no right to rescind a purchase after receipt of their completed subscription certificates together with payment for shares by the subscription agent. We do not have the right to withdraw the rights or cancel this offer after the rights have been distributed.

Expiration of the Offer

The offer will expire at [    ], New York City time, on [     ], 20[     ], the expiration date, unless extended by us. The rights will expire on the expiration date of the rights offering and may not be exercised thereafter.

Our Board of Directors may determine to extend the subscription period, and thereby postpone the expiration date, to the extent our board of directors determines that doing so is in the best interest of our stockholders. For example, our Board of Directors may elect to extend the subscription period in the event there is substantial instability or volatility in the trading price of our common stock or the rights on [the NASDAQ] at or near the expiration date, or if any event occurs which causes trading to cease or be suspended on [the NASDAQ] or the financial markets generally. The foregoing are not the only circumstances under which this offer may be extended, and our Board of Directors is free to extend the subscription period at its discretion, provided it determines that doing so is in the best interests of our stockholders.

Any extension of the offer will be followed as promptly as practicable by announcement thereof, and in no event later than [    ], New York City time, on the next business day following the previously scheduled expiration date. Without limiting the manner in which we may choose to make such announcement, we will not, unless otherwise required by law, have any obligation to publish, advertise, or otherwise communicate any such announcement other than by issuing a press release or such other means of announcement as we deem appropriate.

 

S-32


Amendments and Waivers; Termination

We reserve the right to amend the terms and conditions of the offering, whether the amended terms are more or less favorable to you. We will comply with all applicable laws, including the federal securities laws, in connection with any such amendment.

We will decide all questions as to the validity, form, and eligibility (including times of receipt, beneficial ownership, and compliance with other procedural matters) in our sole discretion, and our determination shall be final and binding. The acceptance of subscription certificates and the subscription price also will be determined by us. Alternative, conditional, or contingent subscriptions will not be accepted. We reserve the right to reject any exercise if such exercise is not in accordance with the terms of the offering or not in proper form or if the acceptance thereof or the issuance of shares of our common stock thereto could be deemed unlawful. We, in our sole discretion, may waive any defect or irregularity, or permit a defect or irregularity to be corrected within such time as we may determine, or reject the purported exercise of any right. Subscriptions will not be deemed to have been received or accepted until all irregularities have been waived or cured within such time as we determine in our sole discretion. We will not be under any duty to give notification of any defect or irregularity in connection with the submission of subscription certificates or incur any liability for failure to give such notification.

We may, in our sole discretion, terminate the rights offering at any time prior to delivery of the shares of our common stock offered hereby if the subscription price is less than [     ]% of the net asset value attributable to a share of common stock disclosed in the most recent periodic report we filed with the SEC by giving oral or written notice thereof to the subscription agent and making a public announcement thereof. If the offering is terminated, all rights will expire without value and we will promptly arrange for the refund, without interest, of all funds received from holders of rights. All monies received by the subscription agent in connection with the offering will be held by the subscription agent, on our behalf, in a segregated interest-bearing account at a negotiated rate. All such interest shall be payable to us even if we determine to terminate the offering and return your subscription payment. [In addition, no amounts paid to acquire rights on [insert name of any applicable exchange on which rights are listed] or otherwise will be returned.]

Dilutive Effects

Any stockholder who chooses not to participate in the offering should expect to own a smaller interest in us upon completion of the offering. The offering will dilute the ownership interest and voting power of stockholders who do not fully exercise their basic subscription rights. Further, because the net proceeds per share from the offering may be lower than our net asset value per share, the offering may reduce our net asset value per share. The amount of dilution that a stockholder will experience could be substantial.

Shares of closed-end investment companies have in the past frequently traded at discounts to their net asset values. This characteristic of closed-end investment companies is separate and distinct from the risk that our net asset value per share may decline. We cannot predict whether our shares will trade above, at or below our net asset value.

 

S-33


[The transferable feature of the rights will afford non-participating stockholders the potential of receiving cash payment upon the sale of rights, receipt of which may be viewed as partial compensation for the dilution of their interests.]

Information Agent

[     ] will act as the information agent in connection with the offering. The information agent will receive for its services a fee estimated to be approximately $[     ] plus reimbursement of all out-of-pocket expenses related to the offering. [     ] can be contacted at the below address:

[insert address of information agent here]

Subscription Agent

[     ] will act as the subscription agent in connection with this offer. The subscription agent will receive for its administrative, processing, invoicing, and other services a fee estimated to be approximately $[     ], plus reimbursement for all out-of-pocket expenses related to the offer.

Completed subscription certificates must be sent together with full payment of the subscription price for all shares subscribed for in the primary subscription and pursuant to over-subscription privilege to the subscription agent by one of the methods described below. Alternatively, an Eligible Guarantor Institution may send notices of guaranteed delivery by facsimile to which must be received by the subscription agent at or prior to [    ], New York City time, on the expiration date of the rights offering. Facsimiles should be confirmed by telephone at [     ]. We will accept only properly completed and duly executed subscription certificates actually received at any of the addresses listed below, at or prior to [    ], New York City time, on the expiration date of the rights offering or by the close of business on the third business day after the expiration date of the rights offering following timely receipt of a notice of guaranteed delivery. See “—Payment for Shares” below. In this prospectus, close of business means [    ], New York City time, on the relevant date.

 

Subscription Certificate

Delivery Method

  

Address/Number

By Notice of Guaranteed Delivery:

  
   Contact an Eligible Guarantor Institution, which may include a commercial bank or trust company, a member firm of a domestic stock exchange, or a savings bank or credit union, to notify us of your intent to exercise the rights.

By First Class Mail Only (Not Overnight /Express Mail):

By Overnight Delivery:

Delivery to an address other than one of the addresses listed above will not constitute valid delivery.

 

S-34


Any questions or requests for assistance concerning the method of subscribing for shares or for additional copies of this prospectus or subscription certificates or notices of guaranteed delivery may be directed to the information agent at its telephone number and address listed below:

[insert address of information agent here]

Stockholders may also contact their broker-dealers or nominees for information with respect to the offer.

[Sale of Rights

The Rights are Transferable

The rights will be listed for trading on [the NASDAQ] under the symbol “[     ]” subject to notice of issuance. We and the dealer manager will use our best efforts to ensure that an adequate trading market for the rights will exist, although no assurance can be given that a market for the rights will develop. Trading in the rights on [the NASDAQ] is expected to be conducted beginning on or about [     ], [     ], and continuing until [     ], [     ] (or if the offer is extended, until the extended expiration date). Rights holders are encouraged to contact their broker-dealer, bank, trustee, or other nominees for more information about trading of the rights.

Sales Through Subscription Agent and Dealer Manager

Stockholders who do not wish to exercise any or all of their rights may instruct the subscription agent to sell any rights they do not intend to exercise themselves through or to the dealer manager. Subscription certificates representing the rights to be sold through or to the dealer manager must be received by the subscription agent on or before [     ], [     ] (or if the offer is extended, on or before two business days prior to the extended expiration date). Upon the timely receipt by the subscription agent of appropriate instructions to sell rights, the subscription agent will ask the dealer manager either to purchase or to use its best efforts to complete the sale and the subscription agent will remit the proceeds of the sale to the selling stockholders. If the rights can be sold, sales of such rights will be deemed to have been effected at the weighted-average price received by the dealer manager on the day such rights are sold. The sale price of any rights sold to the dealer manager will be based upon the then current market price for the rights. The dealer manager will also attempt to sell all rights which remain unclaimed as a result of subscription certificates being returned by the postal authorities to the subscription agent as undeliverable as of the fourth business day prior to the expiration date of the rights offering. The subscription agent will hold the proceeds from those sales for the benefit of such non-claiming stockholders until such proceeds are either claimed or revert to the state pursuant to applicable state law. There can be no assurance that the dealer manager will purchase or be able to complete the sale of any such rights, and neither we nor the dealer manager has guaranteed any minimum sales price for the rights. If a stockholder does not utilize the services of the subscription agent and chooses to use another broker-dealer or other financial institution to sell rights, then the other broker-dealer or financial institution may charge a fee to sell the rights.

 

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Other Transfers

The rights evidenced by a subscription certificate may be transferred in whole by endorsing the subscription certificate for transfer in accordance with the accompanying instructions. A portion of the rights evidenced by a single subscription certificate (but not fractional rights) may be transferred by delivering to the subscription agent a subscription certificate properly endorsed for transfer, with instructions to register such portion of the rights evidenced thereby in the name of the transferee and to issue a new subscription certificate to the transferee evidencing such transferred rights. In such event, a new subscription certificate evidencing the balance of the rights, if any, will be issued to the stockholder or, if the stockholder so instructs, to an additional transferee. The signature on the subscription certificate must correspond to the name as written upon the face of the subscription certificate in every particular, without alteration or enlargement, or any change. A signature guarantee must be provided by an Eligible Guarantor Institution as that term is defined in Rule 17Ad-15 under the Exchange Act, subject to the standards and procedures adopted by us.

Stockholders wishing to transfer all or a portion of their rights should allow at least five business days prior to the expiration date of the rights offering for (1) the transfer instructions to be received and processed by the subscription agent, (2) a new subscription certificate to be issued and transmitted to the transferee or transferees with respect to transferred rights, and to the transferor with respect to retained rights, if any, and (3) the rights evidenced by such new subscription certificate to be exercised or sold by the recipients thereof. Neither we nor the subscription agent nor the dealer manager shall have any liability to a transferee or transferor of rights if subscription certificates are not received in time for exercise or sale prior to the expiration date (or if the offer is extended, on or before two business days prior to the extended expiration date) of the rights offering.

Except for the fees charged by the subscription agent [and dealer manager], which will be paid by us, all commissions, fees, and other expenses (including brokerage commissions and transfer taxes) incurred or charged in connection with the purchase, sale, or exercise of rights will be for the account of the transferor of the rights, and none of those commissions, fees, or expenses will be paid by us, the subscription agent, or the dealer manager.

We anticipate that the rights will be eligible for transfer through, and that the exercise of the primary subscription and the over-subscription privilege may be effected through, the facilities of the Depository Trust Company, or “DTC.” Holders of DTC exercised rights may exercise the over-subscription privilege in respect of such DTC exercised rights by properly completing and duly executing and delivering to the subscription agent, at or prior to [], New York City time, on the day prior to the expiration date of the rights offering, a nominee holder over-subscription certificate or a substantially similar form satisfactory to the subscription agent, together with payment of the subscription price for the number of shares for which the over-subscription privilege is to be exercised.]

Methods for Exercising Rights

Rights are evidenced by subscription certificates that, except as described below under “—Foreign Stockholders,” will be mailed to record date stockholders or, if a record date stockholder’s shares are held by Cede or any other depository or nominee on their behalf, to Cede or such depository or nominee. Rights may be exercised by completing and signing the subscription certificate that accompanies this prospectus and mailing it in the envelope provided, or otherwise delivering the completed and duly executed subscription certificate to the subscription agent, together with payment in full for the shares at the estimated subscription price by the expiration date of the rights offering. Rights may also be exercised by contacting your broker, trustee, or other nominee, who

 

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can arrange, on your behalf, to guarantee delivery of payment and delivery of a properly completed and duly executed subscription certificate pursuant to a notice of guaranteed delivery by the close of business on the third business day after the expiration date. A fee may be charged for this service. Completed subscription certificates and related payments must be received by the subscription agent prior to [    ], New York City time, on or before the expiration date (unless payment is effected by means of a notice of guaranteed delivery as described below under “—Payment for Shares”) at the offices of the subscription agent at the address set forth above. Fractional shares will not be issued upon the exercise of rights.

[Exercise of the Over-Subscription Privilege

Record date stockholders who fully exercise all rights issued to them and rights holders other than record date stockholders, may both participate in the over-subscription privilege by indicating on their subscription certificate the number of shares they are willing to acquire. If sufficient remaining shares are available after the primary subscription, all over-subscriptions will be honored in full; otherwise remaining shares will be allocated first to record date stockholders and then (if any remaining shares are still available) to non-record date rights holders, and the number of remaining shares issued to some or all rights holders participating in the over-subscription privilege may be reduced as described under “—Over-Subscription Privilege” above. ]

Record Date Stockholders Whose Shares Are Held by a Nominee

Record date stockholders whose shares are held by a nominee, such as a bank, broker-dealer, or trustee, must contact that nominee to exercise their rights. In that case, the nominee will complete the subscription certificate on behalf of the record date stockholder and arrange for proper payment by one of the methods set forth under “—Payment for Shares” below.

Nominees

Nominees, such as brokers, trustees, or depositories for securities, who hold shares for the account of others, should notify the respective beneficial owners of the shares as soon as possible to ascertain the beneficial owners’ intentions and to obtain instructions with respect to the rights. If the beneficial owner so instructs, the nominee should complete the subscription certificate and submit it to the subscription agent with the proper payment as described under “—Payment for Shares” below.

All questions as to the validity, form, eligibility (including times of receipt and matters pertaining to beneficial ownership), and the acceptance of subscription forms and the subscription price will be determined by us, which determinations will be final and binding. No alternative, conditional, or contingent subscriptions will be accepted. We reserve the right to reject any or all subscriptions not properly submitted or the acceptance of which would, in the opinion of our counsel, be unlawful.

We reserve the right to reject any exercise if such exercise is not in accordance with the terms of this rights offering or not in proper form or if the acceptance thereof or the issuance of shares of our common stock thereto could be deemed unlawful. We reserve the right to waive any deficiency or irregularity with respect to any subscription certificate. Subscriptions will not be deemed to have been received or accepted until all irregularities

 

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have been waived or cured within such time as we determine in our sole discretion. We will not be under any duty to give notification of any defect or irregularity in connection with the submission of subscription certificates or incur any liability for failure to give such notification.

Foreign Stockholders

Subscription certificates will not be mailed to foreign stockholders. Foreign stockholders will receive written notice of this offer. The subscription agent will hold the rights to which those subscription certificates relate for these stockholders’ accounts until instructions are received to exercise the rights, subject to applicable law. If no instructions have been received by the expiration date, such rights will expire.

Payment for Shares

Participating rights holders may choose between the following methods of payment:

 

  (1) A participating rights holder may send the subscription certificate together with payment for the shares acquired in the primary subscription and any additional shares subscribed for pursuant to the over-subscription privilege to the subscription agent based on the estimated subscription price of $[     ] per share [([     ]% of $[     ], the last reported sale price of a share on [the NASDAQ] on [     ], [     ])]. To be accepted, the payment, together with a properly completed and executed subscription certificate, must be received by the subscription agent at one of the subscription agent’s offices set forth above, at or prior to [], New York City time, on the expiration date.

 

  (2) A participating rights holder may request an Eligible Guarantor Institution as that term is defined in Rule 17Ad-15 under the Exchange Act to send a notice of guaranteed delivery by facsimile or otherwise guaranteeing delivery of (a) payment of the full subscription price for the shares subscribed for in the primary subscription and any additional shares subscribed for pursuant to the over-subscription privilege and (b) a properly completed and duly executed subscription certificate. The subscription agent will not honor a notice of guaranteed delivery unless a properly completed and duly executed subscription certificate and full payment for the shares is received by the subscription agent at or prior to [    ], New York City time, on [     ], [     ] (or, if the offer is extended, by the close of business on the third business day after the extended expiration date).

All payments by a participating rights holder must be in U.S. dollars by money order or check or bank draft drawn on a bank or branch located in the U.S. and payable to CM Finance Inc. The subscription agent will deposit all funds received by it prior to the final payment date into a segregated account pending pro-ration and distribution of the shares.

The method of delivery of subscription certificates and payment of the subscription price to us will be at the election and risk of the participating rights holders, but if sent by mail it is recommended that such certificates and payments be sent by registered mail, properly insured, with return receipt requested, and that a sufficient number of days be allowed to ensure delivery to the subscription agent and clearance of payment prior to [], New York City time, on the expiration date or the date guaranteed payments are due under a notice of guaranteed delivery (as applicable). Because uncertified personal checks may take at least five business days to clear, you are strongly urged to pay, or arrange for payment, by means of certified or cashier’s check or money order.

 

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On a date within [ ] business days following the expiration date, the subscription agent will send to each participating rights holder (or, if rights are held by Cede or any other depository or nominee, to Cede or such other depository or nominee) a confirmation showing (1) the number of shares purchased pursuant to the primary subscription, (2) the number of shares, if any, acquired pursuant to the over-subscription privilege, (3) the per share and total purchase price for the shares, and (4) any additional amount payable to us by the participating rights holder or any excess to be refunded by us to the participating rights holder, in each case based on the subscription price as determined on the expiration date. Any additional payment required from a participating rights holder must be received by the subscription agent within ten business days after the confirmation date. Any excess payment to be refunded by us to a participating rights holder will be mailed by the subscription agent to the rights holder as promptly as practicable. No interest will be paid on any amounts refunded.

Whichever of the two methods described above is used, issuance of the shares purchased is subject to collection of checks and actual payment. If a participating rights holder who subscribes for shares pursuant to the primary subscription or over-subscription privilege does not make payment of any amounts due by the expiration date, the date guaranteed payments are due under a notice of guaranteed delivery, or within ten business days of the confirmation date, as applicable, the subscription agent reserves the right to take any or all of the following actions: (1) reallocate the shares to other participating rights holders in accordance with the over-subscription privilege; (2) apply any payment actually received by it from the participating rights holder toward the purchase of the greatest whole number of shares which could be acquired by such participating rights holder upon exercise of the primary subscription and/or the over-subscription privilege; and/or (3) exercise any and all other rights or remedies to which it may be entitled, including the right to set off against payments actually received by it with respect to such subscribed for shares.

All questions concerning the timeliness, validity, form, and eligibility of any exercise of rights will be determined by us, whose determinations will be final and binding. We in our sole discretion may waive any defect or irregularity, or permit a defect or irregularity to be corrected within such time as we may determine, or reject the purported exercise of any right. Subscriptions will not be deemed to have been received or accepted until all irregularities have been waived or cured within such time as we determine in our sole discretion. The subscription agent will not be under any duty to give notification of any defect or irregularity in connection with the submission of subscription certificates or incur any liability for failure to give such notification.

Participating rights holders will have no right to rescind their subscription after receipt of their payment for shares by the subscription agent, except as provided below under “—Notice of Net Asset Value Decline.”

Notice of Net Asset Value Decline

We will suspend the offer until we amend this prospectus if, subsequent to the effective date of this prospectus, our net asset value declines more than 10% from our net asset value as of that date. Accordingly, the expiration date would be extended and we would notify record date stockholders of the decline and permit participating rights holders to cancel their exercise of rights.

 

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Delivery of Stock Certificates

Participants in our dividend reinvestment plan will have any shares that they acquire pursuant to the offer credited to their stockholder dividend reinvestment accounts in the plan. Stockholders whose shares are held of record by Cede or by any other depository or nominee on their behalf or their broker-dealers’ behalf will have any shares that they acquire credited to the account of Cede or the other depository or nominee. With respect to all other stockholders, stock certificates for all shares acquired will be mailed after payment for all the shares subscribed for has cleared, which may take up to 15 days from the date of receipt of the payment.

Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Offer

For federal income tax purposes, neither the receipt nor the exercise of the rights by record date stockholders will result in taxable income to such stockholders, and no loss will be realized if the rights expire without exercise.

A record date stockholder’s basis in a right will be zero unless either (1) the fair market value of the right on the date of distribution is 15% or more of the fair market value of the shares with respect to which the right was distributed or (2) the record date stockholder elects, in his or her federal income tax return for the taxable year in which the right is received, to allocate part of the basis of the shares to the right. If either of clauses (1) or (2) is applicable, then if the right is exercised, the record date stockholder will allocate his or her basis in the shares with respect to which the right was distributed between the shares and the right in proportion to the fair market values of each on the date of distribution.

The holding period of a right received by a record date stockholder includes the holding period of the shares with regard to which the right is issued. If the right is exercised, the holding period of the shares acquired begins on the date the right is exercised.

[If a right is sold, a gain or loss will be realized by the rights holder in an amount equal to the difference between the basis of the right sold and the amount realized on its disposition.]

A record date stockholder’s basis for determining gain or loss upon the sale of a share acquired upon the exercise of a right will be equal to the sum of the record date stockholder’s basis in the right, if any, and the subscription price per share. A record date stockholder’s gain or loss recognized upon a sale of a share acquired upon the exercise of a right will be capital gain or loss (assuming the share was held as a capital asset at the time of sale) and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the share is held for more than one year.

The foregoing is a general summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the offer under the provisions of the Code and Treasury regulations in effect as of the date of the prospectus that are generally applicable to record date stockholders who are U.S. persons within the meaning of the Code, and does not address any foreign, state, or local tax consequences. The Code and Treasury regulations are subject to change or differing interpretations by legislative or administrative action, which may be retroactive. Participating rights holders should consult their tax advisors regarding specific questions as to foreign, federal, state, or local taxes.

 

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ERISA Considerations

Stockholders who are employee benefit plans subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, or ERISA (including corporate savings and 401(k) plans), Keogh or H.R. 10 plans of self-employed individuals and individual retirement accounts should be aware that additional contributions of cash to a retirement plan (other than rollover contributions or trustee-to-trustee transfers from other retirement plans) in order to exercise rights would be treated as contributions to the retirement plan and, when taken together with contributions previously made, may result in, among other things, excise taxes for excess or nondeductible contributions. In the case of retirement plans qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code and certain other retirement plans, additional cash contributions could cause the maximum contribution limitations of Section 415 of the Code or other qualification rules to be violated. It may also be a reportable distribution and there may be other adverse tax and ERISA consequences if rights are sold or transferred by a retirement plan.

Retirement plans and other tax exempt entities, including governmental plans, should also be aware that if they borrow in order to finance their exercise of rights, they may become subject to the tax on unrelated business taxable income under Section 511 of the Code. If any portion of an individual retirement account is used as security for a loan, the portion so used is also treated as distributed to the IRA depositor. ERISA contains fiduciary responsibility requirements, and ERISA and the Code contain prohibited transaction rules that may impact the exercise of rights. Due to the complexity of these rules and the penalties for noncompliance, retirement plans should consult with their counsel and other advisers regarding the consequences of their exercise of rights under ERISA and the Code.

[Distribution Arrangements

[     ], which is a broker-dealer and member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, will act as dealer manager for this offer. Under the terms and subject to the conditions contained in the dealer management agreement, the dealer manager will provide financial advisory and marketing services in connection with this offer and will solicit the exercise of rights and participation in the over-subscription privilege. This offer is not contingent upon any number of rights being exercised. We have agreed to pay the dealer manager a fee for its financial advisory, marketing, and soliciting services equal to [     ]% of the aggregate subscription price for shares issued pursuant to this offer. In addition, we have agreed to reimburse the dealer manager an aggregate amount up to $[     ] for its expenses incurred in connection with this offer.

The dealer manager will re-allow to other broker-dealers that have executed and delivered a soliciting dealer agreement and have solicited the exercise of rights, solicitation fees equal to [     ]% of the subscription price per share for each share issued pursuant to the exercise of rights as a result of their soliciting efforts, subject to a maximum fee based on the number of shares held by each broker-dealer through DTC on the record date. Fees will be paid by us to the broker-dealer designated on the applicable portion of the subscription certificates or, in the absence of such designation, to the dealer manager.

 

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We have agreed to indemnify the dealer manager for, or contribute to losses arising out of, certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act. The dealer manager agreement also provides that the dealer manager will not be subject to any liability to us in rendering the services contemplated by the dealer manager agreement except for any act of bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence, or reckless disregard by the dealer manager of its obligations and duties under the dealer manager agreement. We have also agreed not to directly or indirectly sell, offer to sell, enter into any agreement to sell, or otherwise dispose of, any of our equity or equity related securities or securities convertible into such securities, other than the rights, the shares, and the common stock issued in connection with the reinvestment of dividends or distributions, for a period of [ ] days from the date hereof without the prior consent of the dealer manager.

The principal business address of the dealer manager is [    ].

Prior to the expiration of this offer, the dealer manager may independently offer for sale shares, including shares acquired through purchasing and exercising the rights, at prices it sets. The dealer manager may realize profits or losses independent of any fees described in this prospectus.

This offering is being conducted in compliance with Rule 5110 of the Conduct Rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.]

Additional Dealer Manager Compensation

The dealer manager and/or its affiliates have from time to time performed and may in the future perform various commercial banking, financial advisory, and investment banking services for us and our affiliates for which they have received or will receive customary compensation. [Describe any specific transactions and compensation related thereto required to be disclosed by applicable law or regulation.]

Certain Effects of this Offer

As a result of the terms of this offer, stockholders who do not fully exercise their rights will own, upon completion of this offer, a smaller proportional interest in us than they owned prior to the offer, including with respect to voting rights. [In addition, because the subscription price per share will likely be less than the net asset value per share, based on our current market price, the offer will likely result in an immediate dilution of net asset value per share for all of our stockholders. If the subscription price per share is substantially less than the current net asset value per share, such dilution could be substantial. Any such dilution will disproportionately affect non-exercising stockholders. If the subscription price is less than our net asset value per share, then all stockholders will experience a decrease in the net asset value per share held by them, irrespective of whether they exercise all or any portion of their rights. This offering will also cause dilution in the dividends per share we are able to distribute subsequent to completion of the offering. See “Dilution.”]

 

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LEGAL MATTERS

Certain legal matters in connection with the securities offered hereby will be passed upon for us by by Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP, Washington, DC 20001. Certain legal matters in connection with the offering will be passed upon for the underwriters by [     ].

 

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INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The financial statements as of [     ] and [     ] and for each of the years then ended included in the accompanying prospectus and this prospectus supplement have been so included in reliance on the report of [     ], an independent registered public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.

 

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AVAILABLE INFORMATION

We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form N-2 together with all amendments and related exhibits under the Securities Act. The registration statement contains additional information about us and the securities being offered by this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.

We are required to file with or submit to the SEC annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information meeting the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. You may inspect and copy these reports, proxy statements and other information, as well as the registration statement and related exhibits and schedules, at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at (202) 551-8090.

We maintain a website at http://cmfn-inc.com and make all of our annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other publicly filed information available, free of charge, on or through our website. Information contained on our website is not incorporated into this prospectus, and you should not consider information on our website to be part of this prospectus. You may also obtain such information by contacting us in writing at 601 Lexington Ave, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10022, Attention: Investor Relations. The SEC maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information we file with the SEC at www.sec.gov. Copies of these reports, proxy and information statements and other information may also be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the SEC’s Public Reference Section, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549-0102.

 

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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

[Insert financial statements.]

 

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$[     ]

CM Finance Inc

Subscription Rights

 

 

[PRELIMINARY] PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

 

 

[     ], 20[     ]

 

 

 

 

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