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In our note, Meeting any potential macro challenges head on, we noted that there remains great uncertainty over the effects of tariffs and whether the US/global economies will fall into a recession. In this note, we revisited why RECI’s model is so strong, noting in particular i) its credit assessment, monitoring and problem account management, ii) the benefit of being a senior finance provider, iii) geographical and sector diversity, iv) portfolio mix changes, including the reduction in MTM bond holdings. As noted in previous reports, in challenging macro times, spreads widen, and peers withdraw, giving RECI new investment opportunities.

  • Credit skills core: Key to RECI’s resilience are the credit skills of its manager, Cheyne. We detail the multiple facets of this resilience. If we were to highlight the single differentiating factor among many finance providers, we believe it is the ownership of the loan by the relationship manager who initiates that loan.
  • May Factsheet: As at 31 May 2025, RECI had a diversified portfolio of 22 investments with a valuation of £298m. The company’s available cash was £25.0m and net effective leverage was 17.4%. The average yield was 11.4% and LTV 66% (see factsheet for deft. of LTV). The NAV rose 0.8p in May.
  • Valuation:  In the five-year, pre-pandemic era, on average, RECI traded at a premium to NAV. In periods of market uncertainty, it has traded at a discount; currently, it trades at a well-above-average 12% discount. RECI is paying an annualised 12p dividend, generating a yield of 9.4%, which we expect to be covered by recurring net interest income.
  • Risks:  Any lender is exposed to credit risks. We believe RECI has appropriate policies to reduce the probability of default. Its average LTV is 66%, and most loans (inc. all of the top 10) are senior-secured, providing a downside cushion. Some assets are illiquid. In the short term, investor sentiment could be an issue.
  • Investment summary:  RECI generates an above-average dividend yield from well-managed credit assets. Directors and management have demonstrated their confidence in its sustainability through share purchases. Market wide, credit risk is currently above average, although rating agencies expect defaults to reduce in 2025, and RECI’s strong liquidity and debt restructuring expertise should allow it time to manage problem accounts. Borrowers have injected further equity into deals. A rolling series of six-monthly buybacks, of up to £10m, has been seen.
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