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In our note, Capital Markets Day, published 25 July, we noted RECI benefits from deep expertise, not only in selecting assets but in having the capability to protect assets where positions need attention. As part of the larger Cheyne team – $11bn+ AUM – RECI has top-tier expertise. The CM Day presentation, on 27 June, highlighted the scope for a modest, progressive rise in loan returns, an already-anticipated move out of development loans into loans for yielding assets where their owners seek finance to improve them. RECI’s portfolio is largely senior debt, and it has almost entirely exited its market-traded bonds. The dividend payout seems secure.

  • Buybacks: Given the above long-run average discount, RECI has been active in buying back shares, most recently 1.25m on 20 August. In total, 7.3m shares are now held in treasury and we expect them to be released back into the market once RECI is on a premium to NAV again (as it was pre-pandemic).
  • July factsheet: The underlying NAV rose 1.6p in the month, driven by recurring net interest income. The diversified portfolio of 26 positions was £297m with a weighted average yield of 10.2% and LTV 59.7%. During June, RECI invested £18.5m in refinancing four four-star London hotels. Cash was £28m.
  • 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 13% 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 61%, and most loans (inc. nine 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, but RECI’s strong liquidity and debt restructuring expertise should allow it time to manage problem accounts. Borrowers, to date, have injected further equity into deals. The initial £5m share buyback programme has now been completed. A new £10m one was announced on 28 March.
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