Franklin BSP Realty Trust, Inc. current report, 31 August 2017

Business Context and Reporting Period

This Form 8-K was filed by Benefit Street Partners Realty Trust, Inc. (referred to in the request as Franklin BSP Realty Trust, Inc.) on August 31, 2017. The report details the entry into a material definitive agreement and the creation of a direct financial obligation.

Key Financial Metrics and Obligations

  • Facility Type: Master Repurchase Agreement (Credit Suisse Repo Facility).
  • Capacity: Up to $250.0 million in advances, subject to adjustment.
  • Counterparties: Column Financial, Inc. (administrative agent), Credit Suisse AG, and Alpine Securitization Ltd. (buyers).
  • Interest Rate: Applicable LIBOR index rate plus an applicable spread.
  • Maturity: Initial maturity date of August 30, 2018, with extension options subject to conditions.
  • Structure: Operates as a revolving credit facility; advances can be repaid as assets are paid off and re-drawn against new assets.
  • Guaranty: The Company entered into a Guaranty to secure certain obligations of its subsidiary, BSPRT Finance Sub-Lender I, LLC.

Material Changes

The filing reports the establishment of a new $250.0 million financing facility. This represents a material change in the Company's capital structure and liquidity resources, enabling the financing of eligible loans, including first mortgage loans and pari passu participation interests.

Guidance, Risks, and Covenants

  • Intended Use: The Company expects to use the facility to finance the acquisition or origination of eligible loans.
  • Covenants: The agreement includes customary representations, warranties, and covenants. Specifically, the Guaranty contains financial covenants requiring the Company to satisfy certain minimum net worth requirements.
  • Risks: The facility is subject to events of default and conditions precedent to funding. The ability to extend the facility is contingent upon satisfying certain conditions.

Investor Verification Checklist

  • Verify the specific "applicable spread" over LIBOR to determine the true cost of borrowing.
  • Review the specific "minimum net worth requirements" detailed in the Guaranty (Exhibit 10.2) to assess covenant compliance risks.
  • Confirm the definition of "eligible loans" to understand the scope of assets that can be financed under the facility.
  • Examine the conditions precedent required to exercise extension options beyond the August 30, 2018 maturity date.