INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549



FORM 10-K

ý   ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012

OR

o

 

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                        to                         

Commission File No. 814-00663



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Maryland   33-1089684
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

245 Park Avenue, 44th Floor, New York, New York 10167
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(212) 750-7300
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)



Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class    Name of each exchange on which registered 
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share   The NASDAQ Global Select Market
5.875% Senior Notes due 2022   The New York Stock Exchange
7.00% Senior Notes due 2022   The New York Stock Exchange
7.75% Senior Notes due 2040   The New York Stock Exchange
6.875% Senior Notes due 2047   The New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o    No ý

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o    No ý

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days: Yes ý    No o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section §232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o    No o

         Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:

Large accelerated filer ý   Accelerated filer o   Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a smaller
reporting company)
  Smaller reporting company o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o    No ý

         The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on June 29, 2012, based on the closing price on that date of $15.96 on The NASDAQ Global Select Market, was approximately $3,545,525,891. As of February 26, 2013, there were 248,652,699 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.

         Portions of the registrant's Proxy Statement for its 2013 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.



PART I

Item 1.    Business

GENERAL

        Ares Capital Corporation, a Maryland corporation (together with its subsidiaries, where applicable, "Ares Capital" or the "Company," which may also be referred to as "we," "us" or "our"), is a specialty finance company that is a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company. We have elected to be regulated as a business development company, or a "BDC," under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder or the "Investment Company Act." We were founded on April 16, 2004, were initially funded on June 23, 2004 and completed our initial public offering on October 8, 2004. We are one of the largest BDCs with approximately $6.4 billion of total assets as of December 31, 2012.

        We are externally managed by our investment adviser, Ares Capital Management LLC ("Ares Capital Management" or our "investment adviser"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management LLC ("Ares Management"), a global alternative asset manager and a Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") registered investment adviser with approximately $59 billion of total committed capital under management as of December 31, 2012. Ares Operations LLC ("Ares Operations" or our "administrator"), our administrator, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management, provides certain administrative and other services necessary for us to operate.

        Our investment objective is to generate both current income and capital appreciation through debt and equity investments. We invest primarily in U.S. middle-market companies, where we believe the supply of primary capital is limited and the investment opportunities are most attractive. However, we may from time to time invest in larger or smaller (in particular, for investments in early-stage and/or venture capital-backed) companies. We generally use the term "middle-market" to refer to companies with annual EBITDA between $10 million and $250 million. As used herein, EBITDA represents net income before net interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization.

        We invest primarily in first lien senior secured loans (including "unitranche" loans, which are loans that combine both senior and mezzanine debt, generally in a first lien position), second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt, which in some cases includes an equity component. First and second lien senior loans generally are senior debt instruments that rank ahead of subordinated debt of a given portfolio company. Mezzanine debt is subordinated to senior loans and is generally unsecured. Our investments in corporate borrowers generally range between $30 million and $400 million each, investments in project finance/power generation projects generally range between $10 million and $200 million each and investments in early-stage and/or venture capital-backed companies generally range between $1 million and $25 million each. However, the investment sizes may be more or less than these ranges and may vary based on, among other things, our capital availability, the composition of our portfolio and general micro- and macro-economic factors.

        To a lesser extent, we also make preferred and/or common equity investments, which have generally been non-control equity investments of less than $20 million (usually in conjunction with a concurrent debt investment). However, we may increase the size or change the nature of these investments.

        The proportion of these types of investments will change over time given our views on, among other things, the economic and credit environment in which we are operating. In connection with our investing activities, we may make commitments with respect to indebtedness or securities of a potential portfolio company substantially in excess of our final investment. In such situations, while we may initially agree to fund up to a certain dollar amount of an investment, we may subsequently syndicate a portion of such amount (including, without limitation, to vehicles managed by our portfolio company, Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P. ("IHAM")), such that we are left with a smaller investment than what

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was reflected in our original commitment. In addition to originating investments, we may also acquire investments in the secondary market.

        The first and second lien senior secured loans in which we invest generally have stated terms of three to 10 years and the mezzanine debt investments in which we invest generally have stated terms of up to 10 years, but the expected average life of such first and second lien loans and mezzanine debt is generally between three and seven years. However, we may invest in loans and securities with any maturity or duration. The instruments in which we invest typically are not rated by any rating agency, but we believe that if such instruments were rated, they would be below investment grade (rated lower than "Baa3" by Moody's Investors Service, lower than "BBB-" by Fitch Ratings or lower than "BBB-" by Standard & Poor's Rating Services), which, under the guidelines established by these entities, is an indication of having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Bonds that are rated below investment grade are sometimes referred to as "high yield bonds" or "junk bonds." We may invest without limit in debt or other securities of any rating, as well as debt or other securities that have not been rated by any nationally recognized statistical rating organization.

        We believe that our investment adviser, Ares Capital Management, is able to leverage the current investment platform, resources and existing relationships of Ares Management and its affiliated companies with financial sponsors, financial institutions, hedge funds and other investment firms to provide us with attractive investment opportunities. For the purposes of this document we refer to Ares Management and its affiliated companies (other than portfolio companies of its affiliated funds) as "Ares." In addition to deal flow, the Ares investment platform assists our investment adviser in analyzing, structuring and monitoring investments. Ares has been in existence for more than 15 years and its senior partners have an average of over 23 years experience in leveraged finance, private equity, distressed debt, commercial real estate finance, investment banking and capital markets. The Company has access to Ares' investment professionals and administrative professionals, who provide assistance in accounting, finance, legal, compliance, operations, information technology and investor relations. As of December 31, 2012, Ares had approximately 240 investment professionals and approximately 320 administrative professionals.

        Since our initial public offering on October 8, 2004 through December 31, 2012, our realized gains have exceeded our realized losses by approximately $194 million (excluding the one-time gain on the acquisition of Allied Capital Corporation (the "Allied Acquisition") and gains/losses from the extinguishment of debt and other assets). For this same time period, our exited investments have resulted in an aggregate cash flow realized internal rate of return to us of approximately 13% (based on original cash invested, net of syndications, of approximately $6.8 billion and total proceeds from such exited investments of approximately $8.3 billion). Approximately 72% of these exited investments resulted in an aggregate cash flow realized internal rate of return to us of 10% or greater. Internal rate of return is the discount rate that makes the net present value of all cash flows related to a particular investment equal to zero. Internal rate of return is gross of expenses related to investments as these expenses are not allocable to specific investments. Investments are considered to be exited when the original investment objective has been achieved through the receipt of cash and/or non-cash consideration upon the repayment of a debt investment or sale of an investment or through the determination that no further consideration was collectible and, thus, a loss may have been realized. These internal rates of return results are historical results relating to our past performance and are not necessarily indicative of future results, the achievement of which cannot be assured.

        We and General Electric Capital Corporation and GE Global Sponsor Finance LLC (collectively, "GE") also co-invest through an unconsolidated vehicle, the Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC, which operates using the name "Senior Secured Loan Program" (the "SSLP"). The SSLP was initially formed in December 2007 by Allied Capital Corporation ("Allied Capital") and GE to co-invest in first lien senior secured loans of middle-market companies. In October 2009, we acquired from Allied Capital

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subordinated certificates issued by the SSLP and management rights in respect thereto. As of December 31, 2012, the SSLP had available capital of $9.0 billion of which approximately $6.3 billion in aggregate principal amount was funded at December 31, 2012. As of December 31, 2012, we had agreed to make available to the SSLP approximately $1.8 billion, of which approximately $1.2 billion was funded. The SSLP is capitalized as transactions are completed and all portfolio decisions and generally all other decisions in respect of the SSLP must be approved by an investment committee of the SSLP consisting of representatives of the Company and GE (with approval from a representative of each required). As of December 31, 2012, our investment in the SSLP was approximately $1.3 billion at fair value (including unrealized appreciation of $25.8 million), which represented approximately 21% of our total portfolio at fair value.

        While our primary focus is to generate current income and capital appreciation through investments in first and second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt and, to a lesser extent, equity securities of eligible portfolio companies, we also may invest up to 30% of our portfolio in non-qualifying assets, as permitted by the Investment Company Act. Specifically, as part of this 30% basket, we may invest in entities that are not considered "eligible portfolio companies" (as defined in the Investment Company Act), including companies outside of the United States, entities that are operating pursuant to certain exceptions to the Investment Company Act, and publicly traded entities whose public equity market capitalization exceeds the levels provided for in the Investment Company Act.

        In the first quarter of 2011, the staff of the SEC (the "Staff") informally communicated to certain BDCs the Staff's belief that certain entities, which would be classified as an "investment company" under the Investment Company Act but for the exception from the definition of "investment company" set forth in Rule 3a-7 promulgated under the Investment Company Act, could not be treated as eligible portfolio companies (as defined in Section 2(a)(46) of the Investment Company Act) (i.e., in a BDC's 70% basket of "qualifying assets"). Subsequently, in August 2011 the SEC issued a concept release (the "Concept Release") which stated that "[a]s a general matter, the Commission presently does not believe that Rule 3a-7 issuers are the type of small, developing and financially troubled businesses in which Congress intended BDCs primarily to invest" and requested comment on whether or not a 3a-7 issuer should be considered an "eligible portfolio company." We provided a comment letter in respect of the Concept Release and continue to believe that the language of Section 2(a)(46) of the Investment Company Act permits a BDC to treat as "eligible portfolio companies" entities that rely on the 3a-7 exception. However, given the current uncertainty in this area (including the language in the Concept Release), we have, solely for purposes of calculating the composition of our portfolio pursuant to Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act, identified such entities, which include the SSLP, as "non-qualifying assets" should the Staff ultimately take an official view that 3a-7 issuers are not "eligible portfolio companies."

        As of December 31, 2012, our portfolio company, IHAM, which became an SEC registered investment adviser effective March 30, 2012, managed 13 credit vehicles and served as the sub-manager/sub-servicer for three other credit vehicles (these vehicles managed or sub-managed/sub-serviced by IHAM are collectively referred to as the "IHAM Vehicles"), which are described in more detail under "Investments—Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P." As of December 31, 2012, IHAM had total committed capital under management of approximately $3.3 billion, which included approximately $0.2 billion invested by Ares Capital in IHAM. In connection with IHAM's registration as a registered investment adviser, on March 30, 2012, we received exemptive relief from the SEC allowing us to, subject to certain conditions, own directly or indirectly up to 100% of IHAM's outstanding equity interests and make additional investments in IHAM.

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About Ares

        Founded in 1997, Ares is a global alternative asset manager and an SEC registered investment adviser with approximately $59 billion of total committed capital under management and approximately 560 employees as of December 31, 2012.

        Ares specializes in originating and managing assets in both the leveraged finance, commercial real estate and private equity markets. Ares' leveraged finance activities include the origination, acquisition and management of senior loans, high yield bonds, mezzanine debt and special situation investments. Ares' commercial real estate activities generally focus on lending to U.S. middle-market real estate projects. Ares' private equity activities generally focus on control-oriented equity investments in under-capitalized companies with capital structure issues. Ares has the ability to invest across a capital structure, from senior debt to common equity. This flexibility, combined with Ares' "buy and hold" philosophy, enables Ares to structure an investment to meet the specific needs of a company rather than the less flexible demands of the public markets.

        The following chart shows the structure and various investment strategies of Ares as of December 31, 2012:

CHART

        Ares is organized around four primary investment platforms: Private Equity, Capital Markets, Private Debt and Commercial Real Estate. Ares' senior partners have been working together as a group for many years and have an average of over 23 years of experience in leveraged finance, private equity, distressed debt, commercial real estate, investment banking and capital markets. They are backed by a team of approximately 240 highly disciplined investment professionals which as of December 31, 2012 covered investments in more than 1,100 companies across over 30 industries. Ares' rigorous investment approach is based upon an intensive, independent financial analysis, with a focus on preservation of capital, diversification and active portfolio management. These fundamentals underlie Ares' investment strategy and have resulted in large pension funds, banks, insurance companies, endowments and high net worth individuals investing in Ares' funds.

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Ares Capital Management

        Ares Capital Management, our investment adviser, is served by an origination, investment and portfolio management team of approximately 80 U.S.-based investment professionals as of December 31, 2012 and led by the senior partners of the Ares Private Debt Group: Michael Arougheti, Eric Beckman, Kipp deVeer, Mitchell Goldstein and Michael Smith. Ares Capital Management leverages off of Ares' investment platform and benefits from the significant capital markets, trading and research expertise of Ares' investment professionals. Ares Capital Management's investment committee has eight members, including the senior partners of the Ares Private Debt Group, senior partners in the Ares Private Equity Group and a senior adviser to the Ares Capital Markets Group.

MARKET OPPORTUNITY

        We believe that current market conditions present attractive opportunities for us to invest in middle-market companies; specifically:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES

        We believe that we have the following competitive advantages over other capital providers to middle-market companies:

The Ares Platform

        As of December 31, 2012, Ares had approximately $59 billion of total committed capital under management in the related asset classes of non-syndicated first and second lien corporate and commercial real estate loans, syndicated corporate and commercial real estate loans, high yield bonds,

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corporate and commercial real estate mezzanine debt and private equity. We believe Ares' current investment platform provides a competitive advantage in terms of access to origination and marketing activities and diligence for us. In particular, we believe that the Ares platform provides us with an advantage through its deal flow generation and investment evaluation process. Ares' asset management platform also provides additional market information, company knowledge and industry insight that benefit our investment and due diligence process. Ares' professionals maintain extensive financial sponsor and intermediary relationships, which provide valuable insight and access to transactions and information.

Seasoned Management Team

        The investment professionals in the Ares Private Debt Group and members of our investment adviser's investment committee also have significant experience investing across market cycles. This experience also provides us with a competitive advantage in identifying, originating, investing in and managing a portfolio of investments in middle-market companies.

Broad Origination Strategy

        We focus on self-originating most of our investments by pursuing a broad array of investment opportunities in middle-market companies across multiple channels. We also leverage off of the extensive relationships of the broader Ares platform, including relationships with the portfolio companies in the IHAM Vehicles, to identify investment opportunities. We believe that this allows for asset selectivity and that there is a significant relationship between proprietary deal origination and credit performance. We believe that our focus on generating proprietary deal flow and lead investing also gives us greater control over capital structure, deal terms, pricing and documentation and enables us to actively manage our portfolio investments. Moreover, by leading the investment process, we are often able to secure controlling positions in credit tranches, thereby providing additional control in investment outcomes. We also have originated substantial proprietary deal flow from middle-market intermediaries, which often allows us to act as the sole or principal source of institutional capital to the borrower.

Scale and Flexible Transaction Structuring

        We believe that being one of the largest BDCs makes us a more desirable and flexible capital provider, especially in competitive markets. We are flexible and have significant experience in structuring investments, including the types of investments and the terms associated with such investments. We believe this approach and experience enables our investment adviser to identify attractive investment opportunities throughout economic cycles and across a company's capital structure so we can make investments consistent with our stated investment objective and preserve principal while seeking appropriate risk adjusted returns. In addition, we have the ability to provide "one stop" financing with the ability to invest capital across the balance sheet and syndicate and hold larger investments than many of our competitors. We believe that the ability to underwrite, syndicate and hold larger investments benefits our stockholders by (a) potentially increasing net income and earnings through syndication, (b) increasing originated deal flow flexibility, (c) broadening market relationships and deal flow, (d) allowing us to optimize our portfolio composition and (e) allowing us to provide capital to a broader spectrum of middle-market companies, which we believe currently have limited access to capital from traditional lending sources. In addition, we believe that the ability to provide capital at every level of the balance sheet provides a strong value proposition to middle-market borrowers and our senior debt capabilities provide superior deal origination and relative value analysis capabilities compared to traditional "mezzanine only" lenders.

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Experience with and Focus on Middle-Market Companies

        Ares has historically focused on investments in middle-market companies and we benefit from this experience. In sourcing and analyzing deals, our investment adviser benefits from Ares' extensive network of relationships focused on middle-market companies, including management teams, members of the investment banking community, private equity groups and other investment firms with whom Ares has had long-term relationships. We believe this network enables us to identify well-positioned prospective portfolio company investments. The Ares Private Debt Group works closely with Ares' other investment professionals. As of December 31, 2012, Ares oversaw a portfolio of investments in over 1,100 companies across over 30 industries, which provides access to an extensive network of relationships and insights into industry trends and the state of the capital markets.

Disciplined Investment Philosophy

        In making its investment decisions, our investment adviser has adopted Ares' long-standing, consistent, credit-based investment approach that was developed over 23 years ago by its founders. Specifically, our investment adviser's investment philosophy, portfolio construction and portfolio management involve an assessment of the overall macroeconomic environment and financial markets and company-specific research and analysis. Its investment approach emphasizes capital preservation, low volatility and minimization of downside risk. In addition to engaging in extensive due diligence from the perspective of a long-term investor, our investment adviser's approach seeks to reduce risk in investments by focusing on:

Extensive Industry Focus

        We seek to concentrate our investing activities in industries with a history of predictable and dependable cash flows and in which the Ares investment professionals have had extensive investment experience. Ares investment professionals have developed long-term relationships with management teams and management consultants in over 30 industries, and have accumulated substantial information and identified potential trends within these industries. In turn, we benefit from these relationships, information and identification of potential trends in making investments.

OPERATING AND REGULATORY STRUCTURE

        Our investment activities are managed by Ares Capital Management, which is wholly owned by Ares, and supervised by our board of directors, a majority of whom are independent of Ares and its affiliates. Ares Capital Management is registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, or the "Advisers Act." Under our Amended and Restated Investment Advisory and Management Agreement with Ares Capital Management, referred to herein as our "investment advisory and management agreement," we have agreed to pay Ares Capital Management an annual base management fee based on our total assets, as defined under the Investment Company Act (other than cash and cash equivalents, but including assets purchased with borrowed funds), and an incentive fee based on our

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performance. See "Investment Advisory and Management Agreement." Ares Operations provides us with certain administrative and other services necessary for us to operate pursuant to an Amended and Restated Administration Agreement, referred to herein as our "administration agreement." See "Administration Agreement."

        As a BDC, we are required to comply with certain regulatory requirements. For example, we are not generally permitted to invest in any portfolio company in which a fund managed by Ares or any of its downstream affiliates (other than us and our downstream affiliates) currently has an investment. However, we may co-invest on a concurrent basis with funds managed by Ares or any of its downstream affiliates, subject to compliance with existing regulatory guidance, applicable regulations and our allocation procedures. Certain types of co-investment transactions would only be permitted pursuant to an exemptive order from the SEC, for which we have applied. Any such order will be subject to certain terms and conditions. Further there is no assurance that this application for exemptive relief will be granted by the SEC.

        Also, while we may borrow funds to make investments, our ability to use debt is limited in certain significant aspects. In particular, BDC's must have at least 200% asset coverage calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act in order to incur debt or issue preferred stock (which we refer to collectively as "senior securities"), which requires us to finance our investments with at least as much equity as senior securities in the aggregate. Certain of our credit facilities also require that we maintain asset coverage of at least 200%.

        In addition, as a consequence of our being a regulated investment company ("RIC") for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as well as our status as a BDC, our asset growth is dependent on our ability to raise equity capital through the issuance of common stock. RICs generally must distribute substantially all of their earnings to stockholders as dividends in order to preserve their status as a RIC and avoid corporate-level U.S. federal income tax. This requirement, in turn, generally prevents us from using earnings to support our operations including making new investments.

MARKET CONDITIONS

        Beginning in 2007, the global financial markets experienced stress, volatility, instability, illiquidity and disruption. While this volatility and disruption peaked in 2008 to 2009 and appears to have abated somewhat, the availability of capital and access to capital markets has been limited over the last several years. As the global liquidity situation and market conditions evolve, we will continue to monitor and adjust our approach to funding accordingly. Given the instability in the global markets over the past several years and the uncertainty around the strength of the U. S. economic recovery, there can be no assurances that these activities will be successful since such market conditions could worsen again in the future. If they do, we could face materially higher financing costs. Consequently, our operating strategy could be materially and adversely affected. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Capital markets have been in a period of disruption and instability for an extended period of time. These market conditions materially and adversely affected debt and equity capital markets in the United States, which had, and may in the future have, a negative impact on our business and operations."

        In connection with the prior depressed market conditions of the general economy, the stocks of BDCs as an industry have in the past traded at near historic lows as a result of concerns over liquidity, credit quality, leverage restrictions and distribution requirements. In some cases, certain BDCs became "forced sellers" of assets, defaulted on their indebtedness, decreased their distributions to stockholders or announced share repurchase programs. Although we believe that we currently have sufficient capital to fund our investments and operations, we cannot assure you that the market pressures we may face in the future will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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INVESTMENTS

Ares Capital Corporation Portfolio

        We have built an investment portfolio of primarily first and second lien loans, mezzanine debt and, to a lesser extent, equity investments in private middle-market companies. Our portfolio is well diversified by industry sector and its concentration to any single issuer is limited. Our largest investment as of December 31, 2012 was in the subordinated certificates of the SSLP. The SSLP consists of a diverse portfolio of first lien senior secured loans to 36 different borrowers as of December 31, 2012 and the portfolio companies in the SSLP are in industries similar to the companies in Ares Capital's portfolio. Our investment in the SSLP represented approximately 21% of our portfolio fair value as of December 31, 2012.

        Our debt investments in corporate borrowers generally range between $30 million and $400 million each, investments in project finance/power generation projects generally range between $10 million and $200 million each and investments in early-stage and/or venture capital-backed companies generally range between $1 million and $25 million each. However, the sizes of our investments may be more or less than these ranges and may vary based on, among other things, our capital availability, the composition of our portfolio and general micro- and macro-economic factors.

        Our preferred and/or common equity investments have generally been non-control equity investments of less than $20 million (usually in conjunction with a concurrent debt investment). However, we may increase the size or change the nature of these investments.

        In addition, the proportion of these types of investments will change over time given our views on, among other things, the economic and credit environment in which we are operating. In connection with our investing activities, we may make commitments with respect to indebtedness or securities of a potential portfolio company substantially in excess of our expected final hold size. In such situations, while we may initially agree to fund up to a certain dollar amount of an investment, we may subsequently syndicate a portion of such amount such that we are left with a smaller investment than what was reflected in our original commitment. We may also syndicate a "first out" tranche of a loan to an investor and retain a "last out" tranche of such loan, in which case the "first out" tranche of such loan will generally receive priority with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder. In addition to originating investments, we may also acquire investments in the secondary market.

        We make senior secured loans primarily in the form of first lien loans (including unitranche loans) and second lien loans. Our senior secured loans generally have terms of three to 10 years. In connection with our senior secured loans we generally receive a security interest in certain of the assets of the borrower and consequently such assets serve as collateral in support of the repayment of such senior secured loans. Senior secured loans are generally exposed to the least amount of credit risk because they typically hold a senior position with respect to scheduled interest and principal payments and security interests in assets of the borrower. However, unlike mezzanine debt, senior secured loans typically do not receive any stock, warrants to purchase stock or other yield enhancements. Senior secured loans may include both revolving lines of credit and term loans.

        Structurally, mezzanine debt usually ranks subordinate in priority of payment to senior secured loans and is often unsecured. However, mezzanine debt ranks senior to common and preferred equity in a borrowers' capital structure. Mezzanine debt investments offer lenders fixed returns in the form of interest payments and will often provide lenders an opportunity to participate in the capital appreciation of a borrower, if any, through an equity interest. This equity interest typically takes the form of an equity co-investment and/or warrants. Due to its higher risk profile and often less restrictive covenants as compared to senior secured loans, mezzanine debt generally bears a higher stated interest rate than senior secured loans. The equity co-investment and warrants (if any) associated with a

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mezzanine debt investment typically allow lenders to receive repayment of their principal on an agreed amortization schedule while retaining their equity interest in the borrower. Equity issued in connection with mezzanine debt also may include a "put" feature, which permits the holder to sell its equity interest back to the borrower at a price determined through an agreed formula.

        In making an equity investment, in addition to considering the factors discussed below under "—Investment Selection," we also consider the anticipated timing of a liquidity event, such as a public offering, sale of the company or redemption of our equity securities.

        We generally seek to invest in companies in the industries in which Ares' investment professionals have direct expertise. The following is a representative list of the industries in which we have invested:

        However, we may invest in other industries if we are presented with attractive opportunities.

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        The industrial and geographic compositions of our portfolio at fair value as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

 
  As of
December 31,
 
 
  2012   2011  

Industry

             

Investment Funds and Vehicles(1)

    21.7 %   23.6 %

Healthcare Services

    12.9     13.4  

Education

    7.8     11.2  

Financial Services

    7.3     6.4  

Restaurants and Food Services

    7.1     6.8  

Other Services

    6.7     2.5  

Consumer Products

    6.6     5.4  

Business Services

    6.4     6.6  

Containers and Packaging

    5.1     4.5  

Energy

    3.7     1.3  

Automotive Services

    3.4     1.1  

Manufacturing

    2.4     2.8  

Aerospace and Defense

    2.0     3.6  

Telecommunications

    1.6     2.0  

Oil and Gas

    1.0     0.7  

Other

    4.3     8.1  
           

Total

    100.0 %   100.0 %
           

(1)
Includes our investment in the SSLP, which had made first lien senior secured loans to 36 and 32 different borrowers as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The portfolio companies in the SSLP are in industries similar to the companies in the Company's portfolio.

 
  As of
December 31,
 
 
  2012   2011  

Geographic Region

             

West

    49.1 %   48.4 %

Midwest

    19.2     14.5  

Southeast

    14.7     21.2  

Mid Atlantic

    12.8     12.8  

Northeast

    2.3     1.7  

International

    1.9     1.4  
           

Total

    100.0 %   100.0 %
           

Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P.

        We have made investments in our portfolio company, IHAM, an SEC registered investment adviser, as well as in certain IHAM Vehicles. As of December 31, 2012, IHAM managed 13 credit vehicles and served as the sub-manager/sub-servicer for three other vehicles. As of December 31, 2012, IHAM had total committed capital under management of approximately $3.3 billion, which included approximately $0.2 billion invested by Ares Capital in IHAM.

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        From time to time, IHAM or certain IHAM Vehicles may purchase investments from us or sell investments to us, in each case for a price equal to the fair market value of such investments determined at the time of such transactions.

        IHAM is party to an administration agreement, referred to herein as the "IHAM administration agreement," with our administrator, Ares Operations. Pursuant to the IHAM administration agreement, Ares Operations provides IHAM with, among other things, office facilities, equipment, clerical, bookkeeping and record keeping services, services relating to the marketing and sale of interests in vehicles managed by IHAM, services of, and oversight of, custodians, depositories, accountants, attorneys, underwriters and such other persons in any other capacity deemed to be necessary. Under the IHAM administration agreement, IHAM reimburses Ares Operations for all of the actual costs associated with such services, including Ares Operations' allocable portion of overhead and the cost of its officers, employees and respective staff in performing its obligations under the IHAM administration agreement.

INVESTMENT SELECTION

        Ares' investment philosophy was developed over the past 23 years and has remained consistent and relevant throughout a number of economic cycles. We are managed using a similar investment philosophy used by the investment professionals of Ares in Ares' private investment funds.

        This investment philosophy involves, among other things:

        The foundation of Ares' investment philosophy is intensive credit investment analysis, a portfolio management discipline based on both market technicals and fundamental value-oriented research, and diversification strategy. We follow a rigorous investment process based on:

        We seek to identify those companies exhibiting superior fundamental risk-reward profiles and strong defensible business franchises while focusing on the relative value of the investment across the industry as well as for the specific company.

Intensive Due Diligence

        The process through which an investment decision is made involves extensive research into the target company, its industry, its growth prospects and its ability to withstand adverse conditions. If the senior investment professional responsible for the transaction determines that an investment opportunity should be pursued, we will engage in an intensive due diligence process. Approximately

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30-40% of the investments initially reviewed by us proceed to this phase. Though each transaction will involve a somewhat different approach, the regular due diligence steps generally undertaken include:

Selective Investment Process

        After an investment has been identified and preliminary diligence has been completed, a credit research and analysis report is prepared. This report is reviewed by the senior investment professional in charge of the potential investment. If such senior and other investment professionals are in favor of the potential investment, then it is first presented to an underwriting committee, which is comprised of the senior partners of the Ares Private Debt Group.

        After the investment is approved by the underwriting committee, a more extensive due diligence process is employed by the transaction team. Additional due diligence with respect to any investment may be conducted on our behalf by attorneys, independent accountants, and other third party consultants and research firms prior to the closing of the investment, as appropriate on a case-by-case basis. Approximately 7-10% of all investments initially reviewed by us will be presented to the investment committee. Approval of an investment for funding requires the approval of the majority of the investment committee of Ares Capital Management, although unanimous consent is sought.

Issuance of Formal Commitment

        Once we have determined that a prospective portfolio company is suitable for investment, we work with the management and/or sponsor of that company and its other capital providers, including senior, junior and equity capital providers, if any, to finalize the structure of the investment. Approximately 5-7% of the investments initially reviewed by us eventually result in the issuance of formal commitments and the closing of such transactions.

Debt Investments

        We invest in portfolio companies primarily in the form of first lien senior secured loans (including unitranche loans), second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt. The first and second lien senior secured loans generally have terms of three to 10 years. In connection with our first and second lien senior secured loans we generally receive security interests in the assets of our portfolio companies

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that will serve as collateral in support of the repayment of such loans. First and second lien senior secured loans generally have floating interest rates, which may have LIBOR floors, and also may provide for some amortization of principal and excess cash flow payments, with the remaining principal balance due at maturity.

        We structure our mezzanine investments primarily as unsecured subordinated loans that provide for relatively high fixed interest rates that provide us with significant current interest income. The mezzanine debt investments generally have terms of up to 10 years. These loans typically have interest-only payments, with amortization of principal, if any, deferred to the later years of the mezzanine investment. In some cases, we may enter into loans that, by their terms, convert into equity or additional debt or defer payments of interest (or at least cash interest) for the first few years after our investment. Also, in some cases our mezzanine debt will be secured by a subordinated lien on some or all of the assets of the borrower.

        In some cases, our debt investments may provide for a portion of the interest payable to be payment-in-kind ("PIK") interest. To the extent interest is PIK, it will be payable through the increase of the principal amount of the loan by the amount of interest due on the then-outstanding aggregate principal amount of such loan.

        In the case of our first and second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt, we tailor the terms of the investment to the facts and circumstances of the transaction and the prospective portfolio company, negotiating a structure that aims to protect our rights and manage our risk while creating incentives for the portfolio company to achieve its business plan and improve its profitability. For example, in addition to seeking a senior position in the capital structure of our portfolio companies, we will seek, where appropriate, to limit the downside potential of our investments by:

        We generally require financial covenants and terms that require an issuer to reduce leverage, thereby enhancing credit quality. These methods include: (a) maintenance leverage covenants requiring a decreasing ratio of indebtedness to cash flow over time, (b) maintenance cash flow covenants requiring an increasing ratio of cash flow to the sum of interest expense and capital expenditures and (c) indebtedness incurrence prohibitions, limiting a company's ability to take on additional indebtedness. In addition, by including limitations on asset sales and capital expenditures we may be able to prevent a company from changing the nature of its business or capitalization without our consent.

        Our debt investments may include equity features, such as warrants or options to buy a minority interest in the portfolio company. Warrants we receive with our debt investments may require only a nominal cost to exercise, and thus, as a portfolio company appreciates in value, we may achieve additional investment return from this equity interest. We may structure the warrants to provide provisions protecting our rights as a minority-interest holder, as well as puts, or rights to sell such securities back to the portfolio company, upon the occurrence of specified events. In many cases, we also obtain registration rights in connection with these equity interests, which may include demand and "piggyback" registration rights.

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Equity Investments

        To a lesser extent, we also make preferred and/or common equity investments, which have generally been non-control equity investments of less than $20 million (usually in conjunction with a concurrent debt investment). However, we may increase the size or change the nature of these investments.

ON-GOING RELATIONSHIPS WITH AND MONITORING OF PORTFOLIO COMPANIES

        We closely monitor each investment we make, maintain a regular dialogue with both the management team and other stakeholders and seek specifically tailored financial reporting. In addition, senior investment professionals may take board seats or obtain board observation rights for our portfolio companies. As of December 31, 2012, of our 152 portfolio companies, we were entitled to board seats or board observation rights on 50% of these companies.

        We seek to exert significant influence post-investment, in addition to covenants and other contractual rights and through board participation, when appropriate, by actively working with management on strategic initiatives. We often introduce managers of companies in which we have invested to other portfolio companies to capitalize on complementary business activities and best practices.

        Our investment adviser employs an investment rating system to categorize our investments. In addition to various risk management and monitoring tools, our investment adviser grades the credit risk of all investments on a scale of 1 to 4 no less frequently than quarterly. This system is intended primarily to reflect the underlying risk of a portfolio investment relative to our initial cost basis in respect of such portfolio investment (i.e., at the time of acquisition), although it may also take into account under certain circumstances the performance of the portfolio company's business, the collateral coverage of the investment and other relevant factors. Under this system, investments with a grade of 4 involve the least amount of risk to our initial cost basis. The trends and risk factors for this investment since origination or acquisition are generally favorable, which may include the performance of the portfolio company or a potential exit. Investments graded 3 involve a level of risk to our initial cost basis that is similar to the risk to our initial cost basis at the time of origination or acquisition. This portfolio company is generally performing as expected and the risk factors to our ability to ultimately recoup the cost of our investment are neutral to favorable. All investments or acquired investments in new portfolio companies are initially assessed a grade of 3. Investments graded 2 indicate that the risk to our ability to recoup the initial cost basis of such investment has increased materially since origination or acquisition, including as a result of factors such as declining performance and non-compliance with debt covenants; however, payments are generally not more than 120 days past due. An investment grade of 1 indicates that the risk to our ability to recoup the initial cost basis of such investment has substantially increased since origination or acquisition, and the portfolio company likely has materially declining performance. For debt investments with an investment grade of 1, most or all of the debt covenants are out of compliance and payments are substantially delinquent. For investments graded 1, it is anticipated that we will not recoup our initial cost basis and may realize a substantial loss of our initial cost basis upon exit. For investments graded 1 or 2, our investment adviser enhances its level of scrutiny over the monitoring of such portfolio company. Our investment adviser grades the investments in our portfolio at least each quarter and it is possible that the grade of a portfolio investment may be reduced or increased over time.

        As of December 31, 2012, the weighted average grade of our portfolio was 3.1. For more information, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Portfolio and Investment Activity."

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MANAGERIAL ASSISTANCE

        As a BDC, we must offer, and must provide upon request, significant managerial assistance to certain of our portfolio companies. This assistance could involve, among other things, monitoring the operations of our portfolio companies, participating in board and management meetings, consulting with and advising officers of portfolio companies and providing other organizational and financial guidance. Ares Operations may provide all or a portion of this assistance pursuant to our administration agreement, the costs of which will be reimbursed by us. We may receive fees for these services.

COMPETITION

        Our primary competitors include public and private funds, commercial and investment banks, commercial finance companies, other BDCs and private equity funds, each of which we compete with for financing opportunities. Many of our competitors are substantially larger and have considerably greater financial and marketing resources than we do. For example, some competitors may have access to funding sources that are not available to us. In addition, some of our competitors may have higher risk tolerances or different risk assessments, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of investments and establish more relationships than we do. Furthermore, many of our competitors are not subject to the regulatory restrictions that the Investment Company Act imposes on us as a BDC. For additional information concerning the competitive risks we face, see "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We operate in a highly competitive market for investment opportunities."

        We believe that the relationships of the members of our investment adviser's investment committee and of the senior partners of Ares enable us to learn about, and compete effectively for, financing opportunities with attractive middle-market companies in the industries in which we seek to invest. We believe that Ares' professionals' deep and long-standing direct sponsor relationships and the resulting proprietary transaction opportunities that these relationships often present, provide valuable insight and access to transactions and information. We use the industry information of Ares' investment professionals to which we have access to assess investment risks and determine appropriate pricing for our investments in portfolio companies.

STAFFING

        We do not currently have any employees and do not expect to have any employees. Services necessary for our business are provided by individuals who are employees or affiliates of our investment adviser, Ares Capital Management, and our administrator, Ares Operations, each of which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management, pursuant to the terms of our investment advisory and management agreement and our administration agreement, respectively, each as described below. Each of our executive officers is an employee or affiliate of Ares Capital Management or Ares Operations. Our day-to-day investment activities are managed by our investment adviser. Most of the services necessary for the origination of our investment portfolio are provided by investment professionals employed by Ares Capital Management. Ares Capital Management has approximately 80 U.S.-based investment professionals who focus on origination, transaction development, investment and the ongoing monitoring of our investments. See "Investment Advisory and Management Agreement" below. We reimburse both Ares Capital Management and Ares Operations for a certain portion of expenses incurred in connection with such staffing, as described in more detail below. Because we have no employees, Ares Capital does not have a formal employee relations policy.

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INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

Management Services

        Ares Capital Management serves as our investment adviser and is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act. Subject to the overall supervision of our board of directors, our investment adviser manages the day-to-day operations of, and provides investment advisory and management services to, Ares Capital. Under the terms of the investment advisory and management agreement, Ares Capital Management:

        Ares Capital Management's services to us under the investment advisory and management agreement are not exclusive, and it is free to furnish similar services to other entities. Similarly, affiliates of our investment adviser may directly or indirectly manage funds or other investment vehicles with investment objectives similar to ours. Accordingly, we may compete with these Ares funds or other investment vehicles managed by our investment adviser and its affiliates for capital and investment opportunities. Ares Capital Management endeavors to allocate investment opportunities in a fair and equitable manner, and in any event consistent with any fiduciary duties owed to Ares Capital. Nevertheless, it is possible that we may not be given the opportunity to participate in certain investments made by investment funds or other investment vehicles managed by Ares Capital Management or its affiliates.

        The sole member of Ares Capital Management is Ares Management, a global alternative asset manager and an SEC registered investment adviser. As of December 31, 2012, Ares had approximately $59 billion of total committed capital under management.

Management Fee

        Pursuant to the investment advisory and management agreement and subject to the overall supervision of our board of directors, Ares Capital Management provides investment advisory and management services to us. For providing these services, Ares Capital Management receives a fee from us consisting of two components—a base management fee and an incentive fee.

        The base management fee is calculated at an annual rate of 1.5% based on the average value of our total assets (other than cash or cash equivalents but including assets purchased with borrowed funds) at the end of the two most recently completed calendar quarters. The base management fee is payable quarterly in arrears.

Incentive Fee

        The incentive fee has two parts. The first part is calculated and payable quarterly in arrears based on our pre-incentive fee net investment income for the quarter. Pre-incentive fee net investment income means interest income, dividend income and any other income (including any other fees such as commitment, origination, structuring, diligence and consulting fees or other fees that we receive from portfolio companies but excluding fees for providing managerial assistance) accrued during the calendar

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quarter, minus operating expenses for the quarter (including the base management fee, any expenses payable under the administration agreement, and any interest expense and dividends paid on any outstanding preferred stock, but excluding the incentive fee). Pre-incentive fee net investment income includes, in the case of investments with a deferred interest feature such as market discount, debt instruments with PIK interest, preferred stock with PIK dividends and zero coupon securities, accrued income that we have not yet received in cash. Our investment adviser is not under any obligation to reimburse us for any part of the incentive fee it received that was based on accrued interest that we never actually receive. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—There are significant potential conflicts of interest that could impact our investment returns" and "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We may be obligated to pay our investment adviser incentive compensation even if we incur a loss."

        Pre-incentive fee net investment income does not include any realized capital gains, realized capital losses, unrealized capital appreciation, unrealized capital depreciation or income tax expense related to realized gains. Because of the structure of the incentive fee, it is possible that we may pay an incentive fee in a quarter where we incur a loss. For example, if we receive pre-incentive fee net investment income in excess of the hurdle rate (as defined below) for a quarter, we will pay the applicable incentive fee even if we have incurred a loss in that quarter due to realized and/or unrealized capital losses.

        Pre-incentive fee net investment income, expressed as a rate of return on the value of our net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and before taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period) at the end of the immediately preceding calendar quarter, is compared to a fixed "hurdle rate" of 1.75% per quarter. If market credit spreads rise, we may be able to invest our funds in debt instruments that provide for a higher return, which may increase our pre-incentive fee net investment income and make it easier for our investment adviser to surpass the fixed hurdle rate and receive an incentive fee based on such net investment income. To the extent we have retained pre-incentive fee net investment income that has been used to calculate this part of the incentive fee, it is also included in the amount of our total assets (other than cash and cash equivalents but including assets purchased with borrowed funds) used to calculate the 1.5% base management fee.

        We pay our investment adviser an incentive fee with respect to our pre-incentive fee net investment income in each calendar quarter as follows:

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        The following is a graphical representation of the calculation of the income-related portion of the incentive fee:

Quarterly Incentive Fee Based on Net Investment Income
Pre-incentive fee net investment income return
(expressed as a percentage of the value of net assets)

CHART

Percentage of pre-incentive fee net investment income
allocated to income-related portion of incentive fee

        These calculations will be appropriately pro rated for any period of less than three months and adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases during the calendar quarter.

        The second part of the incentive fee (the "Capital Gains Fee"), is determined and payable in arrears as of the end of each calendar year (or, upon termination of our investment advisory and management agreement, as of the termination date) and is calculated at the end of each applicable year by subtracting (a) the sum of our cumulative aggregate realized capital losses and aggregate unrealized capital depreciation from (b) our cumulative aggregate realized capital gains, in each case calculated from October 8, 2004. Realized capital gains and losses include gains and losses on investments and foreign currencies, as well as gains and losses on extinguishment of debt and other assets. If such amount is positive at the end of such year, then the Capital Gains Fee for such year is equal to 20% of such amount, less the aggregate amount of Capital Gains Fees paid in all prior years. If such amount is negative, then there is no Capital Gains Fee for such year.

        The cumulative aggregate realized capital gains are calculated as the sum of the differences, if positive, between (a) the net sales price of each investment in our portfolio when sold and (b) the accreted or amortized cost basis of such investment.

        The cumulative aggregate realized capital losses are calculated as the sum of the amounts by which (a) the net sales price of each investment in our portfolio when sold is less than (b) the accreted or amortized cost basis of such investment.

        The aggregate unrealized capital depreciation is calculated as the sum of the differences, if negative, between (a) the valuation of each investment in our portfolio as of the applicable Capital Gains Fee calculation date and (b) the accreted or amortized cost basis of such investment.

        Notwithstanding the foregoing, as a result of an amendment to the capital gains portion of the incentive fee under the investment advisory and management agreement (the "Capital Gains Amendment") that was approved on June 6, 2011, if we are required by generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") to record an investment at its fair value as of the time of acquisition instead of at the actual amount paid for such investment by us (including, for example, as a result of the application of the acquisition method of accounting), then solely for the purposes of calculating the Capital Gains Fee, the "accreted or amortized cost basis" of an investment shall be an amount (the "Contractual Cost Basis") equal to (1) (x) the actual amount paid by us for such investment plus (y) any amounts recorded in our financial statements as required by GAAP that are attributable to the accretion of such investment plus (z) any other adjustments made to the cost basis included in our financial statements, including PIK interest or additional amounts funded (net of repayments) minus (2) any amounts recorded in our financial statements as required by GAAP that are attributable to the amortization of such investment, whether such calculated Contractual Cost Basis is higher or lower than the fair value of such investment (as determined in accordance with GAAP) at the time of acquisition.

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        We defer cash payment of any incentive fee otherwise earned by our investment adviser if during the most recent four full calendar quarter period ending on or prior to the date such payment is to be made the sum of (a) the aggregate distributions to our stockholders and (b) the change in net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and before taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period) is less than 7.0% of our net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness) at the beginning of such period. Any deferred incentive fees are carried over for payment in subsequent calculation periods to the extent such payment is payable under our investment advisory and management agreement.

Payment of Our Expenses

        The services of all investment professionals and staff of our investment adviser, when and to the extent engaged in providing investment advisory and management services to us and routine overhead expenses of such personnel allocable to such services, are provided and paid for by Ares Capital Management. We bear all other costs and expenses of our operations and transactions, including, but not limited to, those relating to: rent; organization; calculation of our net asset value (including, but not limited to, the cost and expenses of any independent valuation firm); expenses incurred by Ares Capital Management payable to third parties, including agents, consultants or other advisers, in monitoring our financial and legal affairs and in monitoring our investments and performing due diligence on our prospective portfolio companies; interest payable on indebtedness, if any, incurred to finance our investments; offerings of our common stock and other securities; investment advisory and management fees; administration fees; fees payable to third parties, including agents, consultants or other advisers, relating to, or associated with, evaluating and making investments; transfer agent and custodial fees; registration fees; listing fees; taxes; independent directors' fees and expenses; costs of preparing and filing reports or other documents with the SEC; the costs of any reports, proxy statements or other notices to stockholders, including printing costs; to the extent we are covered by any joint insurance policies, our allocable portion of the insurance premiums for such policies; direct costs and expenses of administration, including auditor and legal costs; and all other expenses incurred by us or Ares Operations in connection with administering our business as described in more detail under "Administration Agreement" below.

Duration, Termination and Amendment

        At an in-person meeting of our board of directors on March 16, 2011, the form of our current investment advisory and management agreement, including two proposed amendments to our then existing investment advisory and management agreement, was approved by our board of directors with the recommendation that stockholders of the Company vote to approve the proposed amendments. On June 6, 2011, our stockholders approved the proposed amendments and we entered into a restated investment advisory and management agreement, reflecting such amendments on June 6, 2011. At an in-person meeting of our board of directors on May 3, 2012, our board of directors, including a majority of the directors who are not "interested persons" of the Company as defined in the Investment Company Act, voted to approve the continuation of the investment advisory and management agreement to June 6, 2013.

        Unless terminated earlier, the investment advisory and management agreement will automatically renew for successive annual periods if approved annually by our board of directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities, including, in either case, approval by a majority of our directors who are not "interested persons" of the Company (as defined in the Investment Company Act).

        In voting to approve the current investment advisory and management agreement, the independent directors had the opportunity to consult in executive session with counsel to the Company regarding the approval of such agreement. In reaching a decision to approve the current investment advisory and

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management agreement, our board of directors reviewed a significant amount of information and considered, among other things:

        In voting to approve the current investment advisory and management agreement, our board of directors, including all of the directors who are not "interested persons," of the Company, made the following conclusions:

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        In view of the wide variety of factors that our board of directors considered in connection with its evaluation of the investment advisory and management agreement, it is not practical to quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative weights to the specific factors it considered in reaching its decision. Our board of directors did not undertake to make any specific determination as to whether any particular factor, or any aspect of any particular factor, was favorable or unfavorable to the ultimate determination of our board of directors. Rather, our board of directors based its approval on the totality of information presented to, and the investigation conducted by, it. In considering the factors discussed above, individual directors may have given different weights to different factors.

        Based on the information reviewed and the factors discussed above, our directors (including those directors who are not "interested persons" of the Company) concluded that the terms of the investment advisory and management agreement, including the fee rates thereunder, are fair and reasonable in relation to the services provided and approved the continuation of the investment advisory and management agreement with our investment adviser as being in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

        The investment advisory and management agreement will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment. The investment advisory and management agreement may be terminated by either party without penalty upon 60 days' written notice to the other party.

        Conflicts of interest may arise if our investment adviser seeks to change the terms of our investment advisory and management agreement, including, for example, the amount of the management fee, the incentive fee or other compensation terms. Material amendments to our investment advisory and management agreement must be approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities and by a majority of our independent directors, and we may from time to time decide it is appropriate to seek the requisite approval to change the terms of the agreement.

Indemnification

        The investment advisory and management agreement provides that, absent willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of the reckless disregard of its duties and obligations, Ares Capital Management, its members and their respective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any other person or entity affiliated with it are entitled to indemnification from us for any damages, liabilities, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees and amounts reasonably paid in settlement) arising from the rendering of Ares Capital Management's services under the investment advisory and management agreement or otherwise as our investment adviser.

Organization of the Investment Adviser

        Ares Capital Management is a Delaware limited liability company that is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act. The principal executive offices of Ares Capital Management are located at 2000 Avenue of the Stars, 12th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90067.

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ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT

        We are also party to a separate administration agreement with Ares Operations, an affiliate of our investment adviser and a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management. Our board of directors approved the continuation of our administration agreement on May 3, 2012, which extended the term of the agreement to June 1, 2013. Pursuant to the administration agreement, Ares Operations furnishes us with office equipment and clerical, bookkeeping and record keeping services at our office facilities. Under the administration agreement, Ares Operations also performs, or oversees the performance of, our required administrative services, which include, among other things, providing assistance in accounting, legal, compliance, operations, technology, and investor relations, being responsible for the financial records that we are required to maintain and preparing reports to our stockholders and reports filed with the SEC. In addition, Ares Operations assists us in determining and publishing our net asset value, assists us in providing managerial assistance to our portfolio companies, oversees the preparation and filing of our tax returns and the printing and dissemination of reports to our stockholders, and generally oversees the payment of our expenses and the performance of administrative and professional services rendered to us by others. Payments under the administration agreement are equal to an amount based upon our allocable portion of Ares Operations' overhead and other expenses (including travel expenses) incurred by Ares Operations in performing its obligations under the administration agreement, including our allocable portion of the compensation of certain of our officers (including our chief compliance officer, chief financial officer, general counsel, treasurer and assistant treasurer) and their respective staffs. The administration agreement may be terminated by either party without penalty upon 60 days' written notice to the other party.

Indemnification

        The administration agreement provides that, absent willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of the reckless disregard of its duties and obligations, Ares Operations, its members and their respective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any other person or entity affiliated with it are entitled to indemnification from us for any damages, liabilities, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees and amounts reasonably paid in settlement) arising from the rendering of Ares Operations' services under the administration agreement or otherwise as our administrator.

LEVERAGE

        We may from time to time borrow funds to make investments, a practice known as "leverage," to attempt to increase returns to our stockholders. With certain limited exceptions, we are only allowed to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage, as calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act, equals at least 200% after such borrowing. The amount of leverage that we employ at any particular time will depend on our investment adviser's and our board of directors' assessments of market and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing. As of February 22, 2013, we had $2.0 billion of total principal debt outstanding under the various debt instruments described below. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We borrow money, which magnifies the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested and may increase the risk of investing with us."

        We may from time to time seek to retire or repurchase our common stock through cash purchases, as well as retire, cancel or purchase our outstanding debt through cash purchases and/or exchanges, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. Such repurchases or exchanges, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual and regulatory restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.

        We are party to a revolving credit facility, which as of December 31, 2012, allows us to borrow up to $900 million at any one time outstanding (the "Revolving Credit Facility"). The Revolving Credit

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Facility also includes an "accordion" feature that allows us, under certain circumstances, to increase the size of the facility to a maximum of $1.35 billion. The Revolving Credit Facility matures on May 4, 2016. Subject to certain exceptions, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Credit Facility is based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.25% (with no LIBOR floor) or on a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Credit Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.25% (with no base rate floor).

        Our wholly owned subsidiary, Ares Capital CP Funding LLC ("Ares Capital CP"), is party to a revolving funding facility, which as of December 31, 2012, allows us to borrow up to $620 million at any one time outstanding (the "Revolving Funding Facility"). The Revolving Funding Facility provides for a three-year reinvestment period until April 18, 2015 and has a stated maturity of April 18, 2017. Subject to certain exceptions, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Funding Facility is based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of between 2.25% and 2.50% (with no LIBOR floor) or on a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Funding Facility) plus an applicable spread of between 1.25% and 1.50% (with no base rate floor), in each case, determined monthly based on the composition of the borrowing base relative to outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Funding Facility. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Recent Developments" and Note 19 to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 for information on a recent amendment to the Revolving Funding Facility.

        Our wholly owned subsidiary, Ares Capital JB Funding LLC ("ACJB LLC") is party to a revolving funding facility with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation ("SMBC"), which as of December 31, 2012, allows us to borrow up to $400 million at any one time outstanding (the "SMBC Funding Facility" and together with the Revolving Credit Facility and the Revolving Funding Facility, the "Facilities"). The SMBC Funding Facility provides for a three-year reinvestment period until September 14, 2015 and has a stated maturity of September 14, 2020. The reinvestment period and the stated maturity date are both subject to two one-year extensions by mutual agreement. Subject to certain exceptions, the interest rate charged on the SMBC Funding Facility is based on LIBOR plus 2.125% (with no LIBOR floor) or on a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the SMBC Funding Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.125% (with no base rate floor).

        The Company currently has approximately $1.2 billion aggregate principal amount of convertible senior unsecured notes outstanding comprised of $575.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior unsecured notes that mature on February 1, 2016 and bear interest at a rate of 5.75% (the "February 2016 Convertible Notes"), $230.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior unsecured notes that mature on June 1, 2016 and bear interest at a rate of 5.125% (the "June 2016 Convertible Notes"), $162.5 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior unsecured notes that mature on March 15, 2017 and bear interest at rate of 4.875% (the "2017 Convertible Notes") and $270.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior unsecured notes that mature on January 15, 2018 and bear interest at a rate of 4.75% (the "2018 Convertible Notes", and together with the February 2016 Convertible Notes, the June 2016 Convertible Notes and the 2017 Convertible Notes, the "Convertible Unsecured Notes").

        The Company also currently has approximately $756.3 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes outstanding comprised of $143.8 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes that mature on February 15, 2022 and bear interest at a rate of 7.00% (the "February 2022 Notes"), $182.5 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes that mature on October 1, 2022 and bear interest at a rate of 5.875% (the "October 2022 Notes"), $200.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes that mature on October 15, 2040 and bear interest at a rate of 7.75% (the "2040 Notes") and $230.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes that mature on April 15, 2047 and bear interest at a rate of 6.875% (the "2047 Notes" and together with the February 2022 Notes, the October 2022 Notes and the 2040 Notes, the "Unsecured Notes"). The Unsecured Notes are listed on The New York Stock Exchange.

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        We intend to continue borrowing under the Facilities in the future and we may increase the size of the Facilities, add additional credit facilities or otherwise issue additional debt securities or other evidences of indebtedness in the future, although there can be no assurance that we will be able to do so.

        For more information on the Company's debt, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources."

REGULATION

        We have elected to be regulated as a BDC under the Investment Company Act and have elected to be treated as a RIC under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). As with other companies regulated by the Investment Company Act, a BDC must adhere to certain substantive regulatory requirements. The Investment Company Act contains prohibitions and restrictions relating to certain transactions between BDCs and certain affiliates (including any investment advisers or sub-advisers), principal underwriters and certain affiliates of those affiliates or underwriters. Among other things, we generally cannot invest in any portfolio company in which funds managed by Ares or any of its downstream affiliates (including Ares Capital Management) (other than Ares Capital and its downstream affiliates) currently has an investment (although we may co-invest on a concurrent basis with other funds managed by Ares or any of its downstream affiliates (including Ares Capital Management), subject to compliance with existing regulatory guidance, applicable regulations and our allocation procedures). Certain types of co-investment transactions would only be permitted pursuant to an exemptive order from the SEC, for which we have applied. Any such order will be subject to certain terms and conditions. Further, there is no assurance that the application for exemptive relief will be granted by the SEC.

        The Investment Company Act also requires that a majority of our directors be persons other than "interested persons," as that term is defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act, referred to herein as "independent directors." In addition, the Investment Company Act provides that we may not change the nature of our business so as to cease to be, or to withdraw our election as, a BDC unless that change is approved by holders of at least a majority of our outstanding voting securities. Under the Investment Company Act, the vote of holders of at least a "majority of outstanding voting securities" means the vote of the holders of the lesser of: (a) 67% or more of the outstanding shares of our common stock present at a meeting or represented by proxy if holders of more than 50% of the shares of our common stock are present or represented by proxy or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of our common stock.

        We may invest up to 100% of our assets in securities acquired directly from issuers in privately negotiated transactions. With respect to such securities, we may, for the purpose of public resale, be deemed an "underwriter" as that term is defined in the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"). Our intention is to not write (sell) or buy put or call options to manage risks associated with the publicly traded securities of our portfolio companies. We may enter into hedging transactions to manage the risks associated with interest rate and currency fluctuations. We may purchase or otherwise receive warrants or options to purchase the common stock of our portfolio companies in connection with acquisition financings or other investments. In connection with such an acquisition, we may acquire rights to require the issuers of acquired securities or their affiliates to repurchase them under certain circumstances.

        We also do not intend to acquire securities issued by any investment company that exceed the limits imposed by the Investment Company Act. Under these limits, we generally cannot acquire more than 3% of the voting stock of any investment company (as defined in the Investment Company Act), invest more than 5% of the value of our total assets in the securities of one investment company or invest more than 10% of the value of our total assets in the securities of investment companies in the

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aggregate. With regard to that portion of our portfolio invested in securities issued by investment companies, it should be noted that such investments might subject our stockholders to additional expenses.

PRIVACY PRINCIPLES

        We are committed to maintaining the privacy of our stockholders and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information we collect, how we protect that information and why, in certain cases, we may share information with select other parties.

        Generally, we do not receive any non-public personal information relating to our stockholders, although certain non-public personal information of our stockholders may become available to us. The non-public personal information that we may receive falls into the following categories:

        We do not disclose any non-public personal information about our stockholders or former stockholders to anyone, except:

        When the Company shares non-public stockholder personal information referred to above, the information is made available for limited business purposes and under controlled circumstances designed to protect our stockholders' privacy. The Company does not permit use of stockholder information for any non-business or marketing purpose, nor does the Company permit third parties to rent, sell, trade or otherwise release or disclose information to any other party.

        The Company's service providers, such as its investment adviser, administrator and transfer agent, are required to maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to protect stockholder non-public personal information to prevent unauthorized access or use and to dispose of such information when it is no longer required.

        Personnel of our affiliates may access stockholder information only for business purposes. The degree of access is based on the sensitivity of the information and on personnel need for the information to service a stockholder's account or comply with legal requirements.

        If a stockholder ceases to be a stockholder, we will adhere to the privacy policies and practices as described above. We may choose to modify our privacy policies at any time. Before we do so, we will notify stockholders and provide a description of our privacy policy.

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        In the event of a corporate change in control resulting from, for example, a sale to, or merger with, another entity, or in the event of a sale of assets, we reserve the right to transfer stockholders' non-public personal information to the new party in control or the party acquiring assets.

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

        We file with or submit to the SEC annual, quarterly and current periodic reports, proxy statements and other information meeting the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"). This information is available free of charge by calling us collect at (310) 201-4200 or on our website at www.arescapitalcorp.com. The information on our website is not deemed incorporated by reference in this Annual Report. You also may inspect and copy these reports, proxy statements and other information, as well as the Annual Report and related exhibits and schedules, at the Public Reference Room of the SEC at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information filed electronically by us with the SEC which are available on the SEC's Internet site at www.sec.gov. Copies of these reports, proxy and information statements and other information may 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 Room, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549.

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Item 1A.    Risk Factors

RISK FACTORS

        You should carefully consider these risk factors, together with all of the other information included in this Annual Report, including our consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto, before you decide whether to make an investment in our securities. The risks set out below are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. If any of the following events occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. In such case, the net asset value of our common stock and the trading price of our securities could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESS

Capital markets have been in a period of disruption and instability for an extended period of time. These market conditions materially and adversely affected debt and equity capital markets in the United States, which had, and may in the future have, a negative impact on our business and operations.

        The global capital markets have been in an extended period of instability as evidenced by periodic disruptions in liquidity in the debt capital markets, significant write-offs in the financial services sector, the re-pricing of credit risk in the broadly syndicated credit market and the failure of major financial institutions. Despite actions of the U.S. federal government and foreign governments, these events contributed to worsening general economic conditions that materially and adversely impacted the broader financial and credit markets and reduced the availability of debt and equity capital for the market as a whole and financial services firms in particular. While recent market conditions have improved there have been continuing periods of volatility and there can be no assurance that adverse market conditions will not repeat themselves or worsen in the future. If these adverse and volatile market conditions worsen, we and other companies in the financial services sector may have to access, if available, alternative markets for debt and equity capital in order to grow. Equity capital may be difficult to raise because, subject to some limited exceptions, as a BDC, we are generally not able to issue additional shares of our common stock at a price less than net asset value without first obtaining approval for such issuance from our stockholders and our independent directors. At our 2012 annual stockholders meeting, subject to certain determinations required to be made by our board of directors, our stockholders approved our ability to sell or otherwise issue shares of our common stock, not exceeding 25% of our then outstanding common stock, at a price below the then current net asset value per share during a period beginning on June 4, 2012 and expiring on the earlier of June 4, 2013 and the date of our 2013 annual stockholders meeting. In addition, our ability to incur indebtedness (including by issuing preferred stock) is limited by applicable regulations such that our asset coverage, as calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act, must equal at least 200% immediately after each time we incur indebtedness. The debt capital that will be available to us in the future, if at all, may be at a higher cost and on less favorable terms and conditions than what we currently experience. Any inability to raise capital could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

        Moreover, the re-appearance of market conditions similar to those experienced from 2007 through 2009 for any substantial length of time could make it difficult to extend the maturity of or refinance our existing indebtedness under similar terms and any failure to do so could have a material adverse effect on our business.

        Given the extreme volatility and dislocation in the capital markets over the past several years, many BDCs have faced, and may in the future face, a challenging environment in which to raise or access capital. At times during the recent significant changes in the capital markets, our ability to raise

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capital was affected and consequently the pace of our investment activity had slowed. In addition, significant changes in the capital markets, including the extreme volatility and disruption over the past several years, has had, and may in the future have, a negative effect on the valuations of our investments and on the potential for liquidity events involving our investments. While most of our investments are not publicly traded, applicable accounting standards require us to assume as part of our valuation process that our investments are sold in a principal market to market participants (even if we plan on holding an investment through its maturity). As a result, volatility in the capital markets can adversely affect our investment valuations. Further, the illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to sell such investments to access capital if required. As a result, we could realize significantly less than the value at which we have recorded our investments if we were required to sell them for liquidity purposes. An inability to raise or access capital could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

A failure on our part to maintain our status as a BDC would significantly reduce our operating flexibility.

        If we fail to maintain our status as a BDC, we might be regulated as a closed-end investment company that is required to register under the Investment Company Act, which would subject us to additional regulatory restrictions and significantly decrease our operating flexibility. In addition, any such failure could cause an event of default under our outstanding indebtedness, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

We are dependent upon certain key personnel of Ares for our future success and upon their access to other Ares investment professionals.

        We depend on the diligence, skill and network of business contacts of certain key personnel of the Ares Private Debt Group. We also depend, to a significant extent, on access to the investment professionals of other groups within Ares and the information and deal flow generated by Ares' investment professionals in the course of their investment and portfolio management activities. Our future success depends on the continued service of the key personnel of the Ares Private Debt Group. The departure of any of these individuals, or of a significant number of the investment professionals or partners of Ares, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. In addition, we cannot assure you that Ares Capital Management will remain our investment adviser or that we will continue to have access to Ares' investment professionals or its information and deal flow. Further, there can be no assurance that Ares Capital will replicate Ares' historical success, and we caution you that our investment returns could be substantially lower than the returns achieved by other Ares managed funds.

Our financial condition and results of operations depend on our ability to manage future growth effectively.

        Our ability to achieve our investment objective depends on our ability to acquire suitable investments and monitor and administer those investments, which depends, in turn, on our investment adviser's ability to identify, invest in and monitor companies that meet our investment criteria.

        Accomplishing this result on a cost-effective basis is largely a function of the structuring of our investment process and the ability of our investment adviser to provide competent, attentive and efficient services to us. Our executive officers and the members of our investment adviser's investment committee have substantial responsibilities in connection with their roles at Ares and with the other Ares funds, as well as responsibilities under the investment advisory and management agreement. They may also be called upon to provide significant managerial assistance to certain of our portfolio companies. These demands on their time, which will increase as the number of investments grow, may distract them or slow the rate of investment. In order to grow, Ares will need to hire, train, supervise,

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manage and retain new employees. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to do so effectively. Any failure to manage our future growth effectively could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

        In addition, as we grow, we may open up new offices in new geographic regions that may increase our direct operating expenses without corresponding revenue growth.

Our ability to grow depends on our ability to raise capital.

        We will need to periodically access the capital markets to raise cash to fund new investments in excess of our repayments. We have elected to be treated as a RIC and operate in a manner so as to qualify for the U.S. federal income tax treatment applicable to RICs. Among other things, in order to maintain our RIC status, we must distribute to our stockholders on a timely basis generally an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income, and, as a result, such distributions will not be available to fund investment originations. We must continue to borrow from financial institutions and issue additional securities to fund our growth. Unfavorable economic or capital market conditions may increase our funding costs, limit our access to the capital markets or could result in a decision by lenders not to extend credit to us. An inability to successfully access the capital markets could limit our ability to grow our business and fully execute our business strategy and could decrease our earnings, if any.

        In addition, with certain limited exceptions, we are only allowed to borrow amounts or issue debt securities or preferred stock, which we refer to collectively as "senior securities," such that our asset coverage, as calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act, equals at least 200% immediately after such borrowing, which, in certain circumstances, may restrict our ability to borrow or issue debt securities or preferred stock. The amount of leverage that we employ will depend on our investment adviser's and our board of directors' assessments of market and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing or issuance of senior securities. We cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain our current Facilities, obtain other lines of credit or issue senior securities at all or on terms acceptable to us.

Regulations governing our operation as a BDC affect our ability to, and the way in which we, raise additional capital.

        We may issue senior securities or borrow money from banks or other financial institutions, up to the maximum amount permitted by the Investment Company Act. Under the provisions of the Investment Company Act, we are permitted, as a BDC, to incur indebtedness or issue senior securities only in amounts such that our asset coverage, as calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act, equals at least 200% after each such incurrence or issuance. If the value of our assets declines, we may be unable to satisfy this test, which may prohibit us from paying dividends and could prevent us from maintaining our status as a RIC or may prohibit us from repurchasing shares of our common stock. In addition, our inability to satisfy this test could cause an event of default under our existing indebtedness. If we cannot satisfy this test, we may be required to sell a portion of our investments at a time when such sales may be disadvantageous and, depending on the nature of our leverage, repay a portion of our indebtedness. Accordingly, any failure to satisfy this test could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. As of December 31, 2012, our asset coverage calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act was 282%. Also, to generate cash for funding new investments, we may in the future seek to issue additional debt or to securitize certain of our loans. The Investment Company Act may impose restrictions on the structure of any such securitization.

        We are not generally able to issue and sell our common stock at a price below net asset value per share. We may, however, sell our common stock, or warrants, options or rights to acquire our common

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stock, at a price below the current net asset value per share of our common stock if our board of directors determines that such sale is in our best interests and the best interests of our stockholders, and our stockholders approve such sale. Any such sale would be dilutive to the net asset value per share of our common stock. In any such case, the price at which our securities are to be issued and sold may not be less than a price which, in the determination of our board of directors, closely approximates the market value of such securities (less any commission or discount). If our common stock trades at a discount to net asset value, this restriction could adversely affect our ability to raise capital.

        At our 2012 annual stockholders meeting, subject to certain determinations required to be made by our board of directors, our stockholders approved our ability to sell or otherwise issue shares of our common stock, not exceeding 25% of our then outstanding common stock, at a price below the then current net asset value per share during a period beginning on June 4, 2012 and expiring on the earlier of June 4, 2013 and the date of our 2013 annual stockholders meeting.

We borrow money, which magnifies the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested and may increase the risk of investing with us.

        Borrowings, also known as leverage, magnify the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested and, therefore, increase the risks associated with investing in our securities. We currently borrow under our Facilities and have issued or assumed other senior securities, and in the future may borrow from, or issue additional senior securities to, banks, insurance companies, funds, institutional investors and other lenders and investors. Lenders and holders of such senior securities have fixed dollar claims on our consolidated assets that are superior to the claims of our common stockholders or any preferred stockholders. If the value of our consolidated assets increases, then leveraging would cause the net asset value per share of our common stock to increase more sharply than it would have had we not incurred leverage.

        Conversely, if the value of our consolidated assets decreases, leveraging would cause net asset value to decline more sharply than it otherwise would have had we not incurred leverage. Similarly, any increase in our consolidated income in excess of consolidated interest payable on the borrowed funds would cause our net income to increase more than it would had we not incurred leverage, while any decrease in our consolidated income would cause net income to decline more sharply than it would have had we not incurred leverage. Such a decline could negatively affect our ability to make common stock dividend payments. There can be no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful.

        As of December 31, 2012, we had $300.0 million of outstanding borrowings under our Facilities, $756.3 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Unsecured Notes and $1,237.5 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Convertible Unsecured Notes. In order for us to cover our annual interest payments on our outstanding indebtedness at December 31, 2012, we must achieve annual returns on our December 31, 2012 total assets of at least 2.0%. The weighted average stated interest rate charged on our outstanding indebtedness as of December 31, 2012 was 5.5%. We intend to continue borrowing under the Facilities in the future and we may increase the size of the Facilities or issue additional debt securities or other evidences of indebtedness (although there can be no assurance that we will be successful in doing so). Our ability to service our debt depends largely on our financial performance and is subject to prevailing economic conditions and competitive pressures. The amount of leverage that we employ at any particular time will depend on our investment adviser's and our board of directors' assessments of market and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing.

        Our Facilities, the Unsecured Notes and the Convertible Unsecured Notes impose financial and operating covenants that restrict our business activities, including limitations that could hinder our ability to finance additional loans and investments or to make the distributions required to maintain

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our status as a RIC. A failure to renew our Facilities or to add new or replacement debt facilities or issue additional debt securities or other evidences of indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

        The following table illustrates the effect on return to a holder of our common stock of the leverage created by our use of borrowing at the weighted average stated interest rate of 5.5% as of December 31, 2012, together with (a) our total value of net assets as of December 31, 2012; (b) $2,293.8 million in aggregate principal amount of indebtedness outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and (c) hypothetical annual returns on our portfolio of minus 15% to plus 15%.

Assumed Return on Portfolio (Net of Expenses)(1)

    -15 %   -10 %   -5 %   0 %   5 %   10 %   15 %

Corresponding Return to Common Stockholders(2)

    -27 %   -19 %   -11 %   -3 %   5 %   13 %   21 %

(1)
The assumed portfolio return is required by SEC regulations and is not a prediction of, and does not represent, our projected or actual performance. Actual returns may be greater or less than those appearing in the table. Pursuant to SEC regulations, this table is calculated as of December 31, 2012. As a result, it has not been updated to take into account any changes in assets or leverage since December 31, 2012.

(2)
In order to compute the "Corresponding Return to Common Stockholders," the "Assumed Return on Portfolio" is multiplied by the total value of our assets at December 31, 2012 to obtain an assumed return to us. From this amount, the interest expense (calculated by multiplying the weighted average stated interest rate of 5.5% by the $2,293.8 million of principal debt) is subtracted to determine the return available to stockholders. The return available to stockholders is then divided by the total value of our net assets as of December 31, 2012 to determine the "Corresponding Return to Common Stockholders."

In addition to regulatory requirements that restrict our ability to raise capital, the Facilities, the Unsecured Notes and the Convertible Unsecured Notes contain various covenants that, if not complied with, could accelerate repayment under the Facilities, the Unsecured Notes and the Convertible Unsecured Notes, thereby materially and adversely affecting our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.

        The agreements governing the Facilities, the Unsecured Notes and the Convertible Unsecured Notes require us to comply with certain financial and operational covenants. These covenants may include, among other things:

        As of the date of this Annual Report, we are in compliance in all material respects with the covenants of the Facilities, the Unsecured Notes and the Convertible Unsecured Notes. However, our continued compliance with these covenants depends on many factors, some of which are beyond our control. For example, depending on the condition of the public debt and equity markets and pricing levels, unrealized depreciation in our portfolio may increase in the future. Any such increase could result in our inability to comply with our obligation to restrict the level of indebtedness that we are able to incur in relation to the value of our assets or to maintain a minimum level of stockholders' equity.

        Accordingly, although we believe we will continue to be in compliance, there are no assurances that we will continue to comply with the covenants in the Facilities, the Unsecured Notes and the

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Convertible Unsecured Notes. Failure to comply with these covenants could result in a default under the Facilities, the Unsecured Notes or the Convertible Unsecured Notes that, if we were unable to obtain a waiver from the lenders or holders of such indebtedness, as applicable, such lenders or holders could accelerate repayment under such indebtedness and thereby have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We operate in a highly competitive market for investment opportunities.

        A number of entities compete with us to make the types of investments that we make in middle-market companies. We compete with other BDCs, public and private funds, commercial and investment banks, commercial financing companies, insurance companies, hedge funds, and, to the extent they provide an alternative form of financing, private equity funds. Many of our competitors are substantially larger and have considerably greater financial, technical and marketing resources than we do. Some competitors may have a lower cost of funds and access to funding sources that are not available to us. In addition, some of our competitors may have higher risk tolerances or different risk assessments, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of investments and establish more relationships than us. Furthermore, many of our competitors are not subject to the regulatory restrictions that the Investment Company Act imposes on us as a BDC and that the Code imposes on us as a RIC. We cannot assure you that the competitive pressures we face will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Also, as a result of this competition, we may not be able to pursue attractive investment opportunities from time to time.

        We do not seek to compete primarily based on the interest rates we offer and we believe that some of our competitors may make loans with interest rates that are comparable to or lower than the rates we offer. Rather, we compete with our competitors based on our existing investment platform, seasoned investment professionals, experience and focus on middle-market companies, disciplined investment philosophy, extensive industry focus and flexible transaction structuring. For a more detailed discussion of these competitive advantages, see "Business—Competitive Advantages."

        We may lose investment opportunities if we do not match our competitors' pricing, terms and structure. If we match our competitors' pricing, terms and structure, we may experience decreased net interest income and increased risk of credit loss. As a result of operating in such a competitive environment, we may make investments that are on less favorable terms than what we may have originally anticipated, which may impact our return on these investments.

We may be subject to additional U.S. federal corporate-level taxes if we fail to maintain our status as a RIC.

        We have elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code and operate in a manner so as to qualify for the U.S. federal income tax treatment applicable to RICs. As a RIC, we generally will not pay U.S. federal corporate-level income taxes on our income and net capital gains that we distribute to our stockholders as dividends on a timely basis. We will be subject to U.S. federal corporate-level income tax on any undistributed income and/or gains. To maintain our status as a RIC, we must meet certain source of income, asset diversification and annual distribution requirements. We may also be subject to certain U.S. federal excise taxes, as well as state, local and foreign taxes.

        To satisfy the annual distribution requirement for a RIC we must distribute to our stockholders on a timely basis generally an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income for each year. We have the ability to pay a large portion of our dividends in shares of our stock, and as long as a portion of such dividend is paid in cash and other requirements are met, such stock dividends will be taxable as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This may result in our U.S. stockholders having to pay tax on such dividends, even if no cash is received, and may result in our non-U.S. stockholders being subject to withholding tax in respect of amounts distributed in our stock.

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Because we use debt financing, we are subject to certain asset coverage ratio requirements under the Investment Company Act and financial covenants under our indebtedness that could, under certain circumstances, restrict us from making distributions necessary to qualify as a RIC. If we are unable to obtain cash from other sources, we may fail to maintain our status as a RIC and, thus, may be subject to corporate-level income tax on all of our income and/or gains.

        To maintain our status as a RIC, in addition to the annual distribution requirement, we must also meet certain annual source of income requirements at the end of each taxable year and asset diversification requirements at the end of each calendar quarter. Failure to meet these requirements may result in our having to (a) dispose of certain investments quickly or (b) raise additional capital to prevent the loss of RIC status. Because most of our investments are in private companies and are generally illiquid, any such dispositions may be at disadvantageous prices and may result in losses. Also, the rules applicable to our qualification as a RIC are complex with many areas of uncertainty. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that we have qualified or will continue to qualify as a RIC. If we fail to maintain our status as a RIC for any reason and become subject to regular "C" corporation income tax, the resulting corporate taxes could substantially reduce our net assets, the amount of income available for distribution and the amount of our distributions. Such a failure would have a material adverse effect on us and on any investment in us. The "Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010," which is effective for 2011 and later tax years, provides some relief from RIC disqualification due to failures of the source of income and asset diversification requirements, although there may be additional taxes due in such cases. We cannot assure you that we would qualify for any such relief should we fail the source of income or asset diversification requirements.

We may have difficulty paying our required distributions under applicable tax rules if we recognize income before or without receiving cash representing such income.

        For U.S. federal income tax purposes, we are required to include in income certain amounts that we have not yet received in cash, such as original issue discount, which may arise, for example, if we receive warrants in connection with the making of a loan, or PIK interest representing contractual interest added to the loan principal balance and due at the end of the loan term. Such original issue discount or PIK interest is included in income before we receive any corresponding cash payments. We also may be required to include in income certain other amounts that we will not receive in cash, including, for example, amounts attributable to hedging and foreign currency transactions or cancellation of indebtedness income resulting from a restructuring of an investment in debt securities.

        Since, in certain cases, we may recognize income before or without receiving cash in respect of such income, we may have difficulty meeting the U.S. federal income tax requirement to distribute generally an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income to maintain our status as a RIC. Accordingly, we may have to sell some of our investments at times we would not consider advantageous, raise additional debt or equity capital or reduce new investment originations to meet these distribution requirements. If we are not able to obtain cash from other sources, we may fail to qualify as a RIC and thus be subject to additional corporate-level income taxes. Such a failure would have a material adverse effect on us and on any investment in us.

We are exposed to risks associated with changes in interest rates.

        General interest rate fluctuations may have a substantial negative impact on our investments and investment opportunities and, accordingly, may have a material adverse effect on our investment objective and rate of return on invested capital. Because we borrow money and may issue debt securities or preferred stock to make investments, our net investment income is dependent upon the difference between the rate at which we borrow funds or pay interest or dividends on such debt securities or preferred stock and the rate at which we invest these funds. As a result, there can be no

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assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income.

        Trading prices for debt that pays a fixed rate of return tend to fall as interest rates rise. Trading prices tend to fluctuate more for fixed-rate securities that have longer maturities. In the past, we have entered into certain hedging transactions, such as interest rate swap agreements, to mitigate our exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates, and we may do so again in the future. In addition, we may increase our floating rate investments to position the portfolio for rate increases. However, we cannot assure you that such transactions will be successful in mitigating our exposure to interest rate risk. Hedging transactions may also limit our ability to participate in the benefits of lower interest rates with respect to our portfolio investments.

        Although we have no policy governing the maturities of our investments, under current market conditions we expect that we will invest in a portfolio of debt generally having maturities of up to 10 years. This means that we are subject to greater risk (other things being equal) than a fund invested solely in shorter-term securities. A decline in the prices of the debt we own could adversely affect the trading price of our common stock. Also, an increase in interest rates available to investors could make an investment in our common stock less attractive if we are not able to increase our dividend rate, which could reduce the value of our common stock.

Most of our portfolio investments are not publicly traded and, as a result, the fair value of these investments may not be readily determinable.

        A large percentage of our portfolio investments are not publicly traded. The fair value of investments that are not publicly traded may not be readily determinable. We value these investments quarterly at fair value as determined in good faith by our board of directors based on, among other things, the input of our management and audit committee and independent valuation firms that have been engaged at the direction of our board of directors to assist in the valuation of each portfolio investment without a readily available market quotation at least once during a trailing 12-month period (with certain de minimis exceptions). The valuation process is conducted at the end of each fiscal quarter, with a minimum of 50% (based on value) of our valuations of portfolio companies without readily available market quotations subject to review by an independent valuation firm each quarter. However, we may use these independent valuation firms to review the value of our investments more frequently, including in connection with the occurrence of significant events or changes in value affecting a particular investment. In addition, our independent accountants review our valuation process as part of their overall integrated audit.

        The types of factors that may be considered in valuing our investments include the enterprise value of the portfolio company (the entire value of the portfolio company to a market participant, including the sum of the values of debt and equity securities used to capitalize the enterprise at a point in time), the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company's ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flows, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, a comparison of the portfolio company's securities to similar publicly traded securities, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments would trade in their principal markets and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we consider the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate our valuation. Because such valuations, and particularly valuations of private investments and private companies, are inherently uncertain, may fluctuate over short periods of time and may be based on estimates, our determinations of fair value may differ materially from the values that would have been used if a ready market for these investments existed and may differ materially from the values that we may ultimately realize. Our net asset value per share could be adversely affected if our determinations regarding the fair value of these investments are materially higher than the values that we realize upon disposition of such investments.

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The lack of liquidity in our investments may adversely affect our business.

        As we generally make investments in private companies, substantially all of these investments are subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or are otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities. The illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to sell such investments if the need arises. In addition, if we are required to liquidate all or a portion of our portfolio quickly, we could realize significantly less than the value at which we have recorded our investments. In addition, we may face other restrictions on our ability to liquidate an investment in a portfolio company to the extent that we or an affiliated manager of Ares has material non-public information regarding such portfolio company.

We may experience fluctuations in our quarterly results.

        We could experience fluctuations in our quarterly operating results due to a number of factors, including the interest rates payable on the debt investments we make, the default rates on such investments, the level of our expenses, variations in and the timing of the recognition of realized and unrealized gains or losses, the degree to which we encounter competition in our markets and general economic conditions. As a result of these factors, results for any period should not be relied upon as being indicative of performance in future periods.

There are significant potential conflicts of interest that could impact our investment returns.

        Certain of our executive officers and directors, and members of the investment committee of our investment adviser, serve or may serve as officers, directors or principals of other entities and affiliates of our investment adviser and investment funds managed by our affiliates. Accordingly, they may have obligations to investors in those entities, the fulfillment of which might not be in our or our stockholders' best interests or that may require them to devote time to services for other entities, which could interfere with the time available to provide services to us. Certain members of our investment adviser's investment committee have significant responsibilities for other Ares funds. For example, Mr. Rosenthal is required to devote a substantial majority of his business time to the affairs of the Ares Private Equity Group. Similarly, although the professional staff of our investment adviser will devote as much time to the management of the Company as appropriate to enable our investment adviser to perform its duties in accordance with the investment advisory and management agreement, the investment professionals of our investment adviser may have conflicts in allocating their time and services among the Company, on the one hand, and investment vehicles managed by Ares or one or more of its affiliates, on the other hand. These activities could be viewed as creating a conflict of interest insofar as the time and effort of the professional staff of our investment adviser and its officers and employees will not be devoted exclusively to the business of the Company but will instead be allocated between the business of the Company and the management of these other investment vehicles. However, Ares believes that the efforts of such individuals are synergistic with and beneficial to the affairs of Ares Capital and these other investment vehicles managed by Ares or its affiliates.

        In addition, certain Ares funds may have investment objectives that compete or overlap with, and may from time to time invest in asset classes similar to those targeted by, Ares Capital. Consequently, we, on the one hand, and these other entities, may from time to time pursue the same or similar capital and investment opportunities. Ares and our investment adviser endeavor to allocate investment opportunities in a fair and equitable manner, and in any event consistent with any fiduciary duties owed to Ares Capital. Nevertheless, it is possible that we may not be given the opportunity to participate in certain investments made by investment funds managed by investment managers affiliated with Ares. In addition, there may be conflicts in the allocation of investment opportunities among us and the funds managed by us or one or more of our controlled affiliates or among the funds they manage. We may or may not participate in investments made by funds managed by us or one or more of our controlled affiliates.

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        We have from time to time sold assets to certain of the vehicles managed by IHAM and, as part of our investment strategy, we may offer to sell additional assets to vehicles managed by us and/or one or more of our controlled affiliates (including IHAM) or we may purchase assets from vehicles managed by us and/or one or more of our controlled affiliates. In addition, vehicles managed by us or one or more of our controlled affiliates (including IHAM) may offer assets to or may purchase assets from one another. While assets may be sold or purchased at prices that are consistent with those that could be obtained from third parties in the marketplace, and although these types of transactions generally require approval of one or more independent parties, there may be an inherent conflict of interest in such transactions between us and funds managed by us or one of our controlled affiliates.

        We pay management and incentive fees to our investment adviser, and reimburse our investment adviser for certain expenses it incurs. In addition, investors in our common stock will invest on a gross basis and receive distributions on a net basis after expenses, resulting in, among other things, a lower rate of return than one might achieve if distributions were made on a gross basis.

        Our investment adviser's base management fee is based on a percentage of our total assets (other than cash or cash equivalents but including assets purchased with borrowed funds) and, consequently, our investment adviser may have conflicts of interest in connection with decisions that could affect our total assets, such as decisions as to whether to incur indebtedness or to make future investments.

        The part of the incentive fee payable by us to our investment advisor that relates to our pre-incentive fee net investment income is computed and paid on income that may include interest that is accrued but not yet received in cash. If a portfolio company defaults on a loan that is structured to provide accrued interest, it is possible that accrued interest previously used in the calculation of the incentive fee will become uncollectible.

        Our investment advisory and management agreement renews for successive annual periods if approved by our board of directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities, including, in either case, approval by a majority of our directors who are not "interested persons" of the Company as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act. However, both we and our investment adviser have the right to terminate the agreement without penalty upon 60 days' written notice to the other party. Moreover, conflicts of interest may arise if our investment adviser seeks to change the terms of our investment advisory and management agreement, including, for example, the terms for compensation. While any material change to the investment advisory and management agreement must be submitted to stockholders for approval under the Investment Company Act, we may from time to time decide it is appropriate to seek stockholder approval to change the terms of the agreement.

        We are party to an administration agreement with our administrator, Ares Operations, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management, pursuant to which our administrator furnishes us with certain administrative and other services and we pay our administrator at cost our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses (including travel expenses) incurred by our administrator in performing its obligations under our administration agreement, including our allocable portion of the cost of certain of our officers (including our chief compliance officer, chief financial officer, general counsel, secretary and treasurer) and their respective staffs, but not investment professionals.

        Our portfolio company, IHAM, is party to an administration agreement, referred to herein as the "IHAM administration agreement," with Ares Operations. Pursuant to the IHAM administration agreement, our administrator provides IHAM with administrative services and IHAM reimburses our administrator for all of the actual costs associated with such services, including its allocable portion of our administrator's overhead and the cost of our administrator's officers and respective staff in performing its obligations under the IHAM administration agreement. Prior to entering into the IHAM administration agreement, IHAM was party to a services agreement with our investment adviser, pursuant to which our investment adviser provided similar services.

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        We are party to a New York office lease that will expire in February 2026 pursuant to which we are leasing office facilities from a third party. We are also party to an office sublease with Ares Commercial Real Estate Management LLC ("ACREM"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management and the manager of Ares Commercial Real Estate Corporation, pursuant to which we are subleasing approximately 12% of ACREM's Chicago office space for a fixed rent equal to 12% of the basic annual rent payable by ACREM under its Chicago office lease, plus certain additional costs and expenses. We also entered into separate subleases with Ares Management and IHAM, pursuant to which Ares Management and IHAM sublease approximately 15% and 20%, respectively, of our New York office space, for a fixed rent equal to 15% and 20%, respectively, of the basic annual rent payable by us under our office lease, plus certain additional costs and expenses.

        As a result of the arrangements described above, there may be times when the management team of Ares (including those members of management focused primarily on managing Ares Capital) has interests that differ from those of yours, giving rise to a conflict.

        Our stockholders may have conflicting investment, tax and other objectives with respect to their investments in us. The conflicting interests of individual stockholders may relate to or arise from, among other things, the nature of our investments, the structure or the acquisition of our investments, and the timing of dispositions of our investments. As a consequence, conflicts of interest may arise in connection with decisions made by our investment adviser, including with respect to the nature or structuring of our investments, that may be more beneficial for one stockholder than for another stockholder, especially with respect to stockholders' individual tax situations. In selecting and structuring investments appropriate for us, our investment adviser will consider the investment and tax objectives of the Company and our stockholders, as a whole, not the investment, tax or other objectives of any stockholder individually.

Changes in laws or regulations governing our operations or the operations of our portfolio companies, changes in the interpretation thereof or newly enacted laws or regulations, such as the Dodd-Frank Act, and any failure by us or our portfolio companies to comply with these laws or regulations, could require changes to certain business practices of us or our portfolio companies, negatively impact the operations, cash flows or financial condition of us or our portfolio companies, impose additional costs on us or our portfolio companies or otherwise adversely affect our business or the business of our portfolio companies.

        We and our portfolio companies are subject to regulation by laws and regulations at the local, state, federal and, in some cases, foreign levels. These laws and regulations, as well as their interpretation, may be changed from time to time, and new laws and regulations may be enacted. Accordingly, any change in these laws or regulations, changes in their interpretation, or newly enacted laws or regulations and any failure by us or our portfolio companies to comply with these laws or regulations, could require changes to certain business practices of us or our portfolio companies, negatively impact the operations, cash flows or financial condition of us or our portfolio companies, impose additional costs on us or our portfolio companies or otherwise adversely affect our business or the business of our portfolio companies.

        On July 21, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Dodd-Frank Act. Many of the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act have had extended implementation periods and delayed effective dates and have required extensive rulemaking by regulatory authorities. While many of the rules required to be written have been promulgated, some have not yet been implemented. Many of these rules will be implemented in 2013. Although the full impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on us and our portfolio companies may not be known for an extended period of time, the Dodd-Frank Act, including the rules implementing its provisions and the interpretation of those rules, along with other legislative and regulatory proposals directed at the financial services industry or affecting taxation that are proposed or pending in the U.S. Congress, may negatively impact the operations, cash flows or financial condition

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of us or our portfolio companies, impose additional costs on us or our portfolio companies, intensify the regulatory supervision of us or our portfolio companies or otherwise adversely affect our business or the business of our portfolio companies.

Our investment adviser's liability is limited under the investment advisory and management agreement, and we are required to indemnify our investment adviser against certain liabilities, which may lead our investment adviser to act in a riskier manner on our behalf than it would when acting for its own account.

        Our investment adviser has not assumed any responsibility to us other than to render the services described in the investment advisory and management agreement, and it will not be responsible for any action of our board of directors in declining to follow our investment adviser's advice or recommendations. Pursuant to the investment advisory and management agreement, our investment adviser and its members and their respective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any other person or entity affiliated with it will not be liable to us for their acts under the investment advisory and management agreement, absent willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard in the performance of their duties. We have agreed to indemnify, defend and protect our investment adviser and its members and their respective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any other person or entity affiliated with it with respect to all damages, liabilities, costs and expenses resulting from acts of our investment adviser not arising out of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard in the performance of their duties under the investment advisory and management agreement. These protections may lead our investment adviser to act in a riskier manner when acting on our behalf than it would when acting for its own account. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Investments—Our investment adviser's incentive fee may induce it to make certain investments, including speculative investments."

We may be obligated to pay our investment adviser incentive compensation even if we incur a loss.

        Our investment adviser is entitled to incentive compensation for each fiscal quarter in an amount equal to a percentage of the excess of our pre-incentive fee net investment income for that quarter (before deducting incentive compensation and certain other items) above a threshold return for that quarter. Our pre-incentive fee net investment income for incentive compensation purposes excludes realized and unrealized capital losses or depreciation and income taxes related to realized gains that we may incur in the fiscal quarter, even if such capital losses or depreciation and income taxes related to realized gains result in a net loss on our statement of operations for that quarter. Thus, we may be required to pay our investment adviser incentive compensation for a fiscal quarter even if there is a decline in the value of our portfolio or we incur a net loss for that quarter.

        Under the investment advisory and management agreement, we will defer cash payment of any incentive fee otherwise earned by our investment adviser if, during the most recent four full calendar quarter periods ending on or prior to the date such payment is to be made, the sum of (a) our aggregate distributions to our stockholders and (b) our change in net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and before taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period) is less than 7.0% of our net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness) at the beginning of such period. These calculations will be adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases. Any deferred incentive fees will be carried over for payment in subsequent calculation periods to the extent such payment can then be made under the investment advisory and management agreement.

        If a portfolio company defaults on a loan that is structured to provide accrued interest, it is possible that accrued interest previously used in the calculation of the incentive fee will become uncollectible. Our investment adviser is not under any obligation to reimburse us for any part of the

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incentive fee it received that was based on accrued income that we never receive as a result of a default on the obligation that resulted in the accrual of such income.

RISKS RELATING TO OUR INVESTMENTS

Declines in market prices and liquidity in the corporate debt markets can result in significant net unrealized depreciation of our portfolio, which in turn would reduce our net asset value.

        As a BDC, we are required to carry our investments at market value or, if no market value is ascertainable, at fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of our board of directors. We may take into account the following types of factors, if relevant, in determining the fair value of our investments: the enterprise value of a portfolio company (the entire value of the portfolio company to a market participant, including the sum of the values of debt and equity securities used to capitalize the enterprise at a point in time), the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company's ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, a comparison of the portfolio company's securities to similar publicly traded securities, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments would trade in their principal markets and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we use the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate our valuation. While most of our investments are not publicly traded, applicable accounting standards require us to assume as part of our valuation process that our investments are sold in a principal market to market participants (even if we plan on holding an investment through its maturity). As a result, volatility in the capital markets can also adversely affect our investment valuations. Decreases in the market values or fair values of our investments are recorded as unrealized depreciation. The effect of all of these factors on our portfolio can reduce our net asset value by increasing net unrealized depreciation in our portfolio. Depending on market conditions, we could incur substantial realized losses and may suffer unrealized losses, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Economic recessions or downturns could impair our portfolio companies and harm our operating results.

        Many of our portfolio companies may be susceptible to economic downturns or recessions (including the economic downturn that began in 2007) and may be unable to repay our loans during these periods. Therefore, during these periods our non-performing assets may increase and the value of our portfolio may decrease if we are required to write down the values of our investments. Adverse economic conditions may also decrease the value of collateral securing some of our loans and the value of our equity investments. Economic slowdowns or recessions could lead to financial losses in our portfolio and a decrease in revenues, net income and assets. Unfavorable economic conditions also could increase our funding costs, limit our access to the capital markets or result in a decision by lenders not to extend credit to us. These events could prevent us from increasing investments and harm our operating results. We experienced to some extent such effects during the economic downturn that began in 2007 and may experience such effects again in any future downturn or recession.

        A portfolio company's failure to satisfy financial or operating covenants imposed by us or other lenders could lead to defaults and, potentially, acceleration of the time when the loans are due and foreclosure on its assets representing collateral for its obligations, which could trigger cross defaults under other agreements and jeopardize our portfolio company's ability to meet its obligations under the debt that we hold and the value of any equity securities we own. We may incur expenses to the extent necessary to seek recovery upon default or to negotiate new terms with a defaulting portfolio company.

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Investments in privately held middle-market companies involve significant risks.

        We primarily invest in privately held U.S. middle-market companies. Investments in privately held middle-market companies involve a number of significant risks, including the following:

Our debt investments may be risky and we could lose all or part of our investment.

        The debt that we invest in is typically not initially rated by any rating agency, but we believe that if such investments were rated, they would be below investment grade (rated lower than "Baa3" by Moody's Investors Service, lower than "BBB-" by Fitch Ratings or lower than "BBB-" by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services), which under the guidelines established by these entities is an indication of having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Bonds that are rated below investment grade are sometimes referred to as "high yield bonds" or "junk bonds." Therefore, our investments may result in an above average amount of risk and volatility or loss of principal.

        Our investment portfolio includes our investment in the SSLP, which as of December 31, 2012 represented approximately 21% of our portfolio at fair value. While the SSLP's portfolio is comprised of 36 separate first lien senior secured loans, any material degradation of the performance of these loans in the aggregate could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We also may invest in assets other than first and second lien and mezzanine debt investments, including high-yield securities, U.S. government securities, credit derivatives and other structured securities and certain direct equity investments. These investments entail additional risks that could adversely affect our investment returns.

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Investments in equity securities, many of which are illiquid with no readily available market, involve a substantial degree of risk.

        We may purchase common and other equity securities. Although common stock has historically generated higher average total returns than fixed income securities over the long-term, common stock also has experienced significantly more volatility in those returns and in recent years has significantly under performed relative to fixed income securities. The equity securities we acquire may fail to appreciate and may decline in value or become worthless and our ability to recover our investment will depend on our portfolio company's success. Investments in equity securities involve a number of significant risks, including:

        There are special risks associated with investing in preferred securities, including:

        Additionally, when we invest in first lien senior secured loans (including unitranche loans), second lien senior secured loans or mezzanine debt, we may acquire warrants or other equity securities as well. Our goal is ultimately to dispose of such equity interests and realize gains upon our disposition of such interests. However, the equity interests we receive may not appreciate in value and, in fact, may decline in value. Accordingly, we may not be able to realize gains from our equity interests and any gains that we do realize on the disposition of any equity interests may not be sufficient to offset any other losses we experience.

        We may invest, to the extent permitted by law, in the equity securities of investment funds that are operating pursuant to certain exceptions to the Investment Company Act and in advisers to similar investment funds and, to the extent we so invest, will bear our ratable share of any such company's

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expenses, including management and performance fees. We will also remain obligated to pay management and incentive fees to Ares Capital Management with respect to the assets invested in the securities and instruments of such companies. With respect to each of these investments, each of our common stockholders will bear his or her share of the management and incentive fee of Ares Capital Management as well as indirectly bearing the management and performance fees and other expenses of any such investment funds or advisers.

There may be circumstances where our debt investments could be subordinated to claims of other creditors or we could be subject to lender liability claims.

        If one of our portfolio companies were to go bankrupt, even though we may have structured our interest as senior debt, depending on the facts and circumstances, a bankruptcy court might recharacterize our debt holding as an equity investment and subordinate all or a portion of our claim to that of other creditors. In addition, lenders can be subject to lender liability claims for actions taken by them where they become too involved in the borrower's business or exercise control over the borrower. For example, we could become subject to a lender's liability claim, if, among other things, we actually render significant managerial assistance.

Our portfolio companies may incur debt or issue equity securities that rank equally with, or senior to, our investments in such companies.

        Our portfolio companies may have, or may be permitted to incur, other debt, or issue other equity securities, that rank equally with, or senior to, our investments. By their terms, such instruments may provide that the holders are entitled to receive payment of dividends, interest or principal on or before the dates on which we are entitled to receive payments in respect of our investments. These debt instruments would usually prohibit the portfolio companies from paying interest on or repaying our investments in the event and during the continuance of a default under such debt. Also, in the event of insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or bankruptcy of a portfolio company, holders of securities ranking senior to our investment in that portfolio company typically are entitled to receive payment in full before we receive any distribution in respect of our investment. After repaying such holders, the portfolio company may not have any remaining assets to use for repaying its obligation to us. In the case of securities ranking equally with our investments, we would have to share on an equal basis any distributions with other security holders in the event of an insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or bankruptcy of the relevant portfolio company.

        The rights we may have with respect to the collateral securing any junior priority loans we make to our portfolio companies may also be limited pursuant to the terms of one or more intercreditor agreements (including agreements governing "first out" and "last out" structures) that we enter into with the holders of senior debt. Under such an intercreditor agreement, at any time that senior obligations are outstanding, we may forfeit certain rights with respect to the collateral to the holders of the senior obligations. These rights may include the right to commence enforcement proceedings against the collateral, the right to control the conduct of such enforcement proceedings, the right to approve amendments to collateral documents, the right to release liens on the collateral and the right to waive past defaults under collateral documents. We may not have the ability to control or direct such actions, even if as a result our rights as junior lenders are adversely affected.

When we are a debt or minority equity investor in a portfolio company, we are often not in a position to exert influence on the entity, and other equity holders and management of the company may make decisions that could decrease the value of our portfolio holdings.

        When we make debt or minority equity investments, we are subject to the risk that a portfolio company may make business decisions with which we disagree and the other equity holders and

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management of such company may take risks or otherwise act in ways that do not serve our interests. As a result, a portfolio company may make decisions that could decrease the value of our investment.

Our portfolio companies may be highly leveraged.

        Some of our portfolio companies may be highly leveraged, which may have adverse consequences to these companies and to us as an investor. These companies may be subject to restrictive financial and operating covenants and the leverage may impair these companies' ability to finance their future operations and capital needs. As a result, these companies' flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions and to take advantage of business opportunities may be limited. Further, a leveraged company's income and net assets will tend to increase or decrease at a greater rate than if borrowed money were not used.

Our investment adviser's incentive fee may induce it to make certain investments, including speculative investments.

        The incentive fee payable by us to Ares Capital Management may create an incentive for Ares Capital Management to make investments on our behalf that are risky or more speculative than would be the case in the absence of such compensation arrangement. The way in which the incentive fee payable to our investment adviser is determined, which is calculated as a percentage of the return on invested capital, may encourage our investment adviser to use leverage to increase the return on our investments. Under certain circumstances, the use of leverage may increase the likelihood of default, which would disfavor the holders of our common stock and the holders of securities convertible into our common stock. In addition, our investment adviser will receive the incentive fee based, in part, upon net capital gains realized on our investments. Unlike the portion of the incentive fee based on income, there is no hurdle rate applicable to the portion of the incentive fee based on net capital gains. As a result, our investment adviser may have a tendency to invest more in investments that are likely to result in capital gains as compared to income producing securities. Such a practice could result in our investing in more speculative securities than would otherwise be the case, which could result in higher investment losses, particularly during economic downturns.

        The part of the incentive fee payable by us that relates to our pre-incentive fee net investment income will be computed and paid on income that may include interest that is accrued but not yet received in cash. If a portfolio company defaults on a loan that is structured to provide accrued interest, it is possible that accrued interest previously used in the calculation of the incentive fee will become uncollectible. Our investment adviser is not under any obligation to reimburse us for any part of the incentive fee it received that was based on such accrued interest that we never actually receive.

        Because of the structure of the incentive fee, it is possible that we may have to pay an incentive fee in a quarter where we incur a loss. For example, if we receive pre-incentive fee net investment income in excess of the hurdle rate for a quarter, we will pay the applicable incentive fee even if we have incurred a loss in that quarter due to realized and/or unrealized capital losses. In addition, if market interest rates rise, we may be able to invest our funds in debt instruments that provide for a higher return, which would increase our pre-incentive fee net investment income and make it easier for our investment adviser to surpass the fixed hurdle rate and receive an incentive fee based on such net investment income.

Our investments in foreign companies may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.

        Our investment strategy contemplates potential investments in foreign companies. Investing in foreign companies may expose us to additional risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. companies. These risks include changes in exchange control regulations, political and social instability,

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expropriation, imposition of foreign taxes (potentially at confiscatory levels), less liquid markets, less available information than is generally the case in the United States, higher transaction costs, less government supervision of exchanges, brokers and issuers, less developed bankruptcy laws, difficulty in enforcing contractual obligations, lack of uniform accounting and auditing standards and greater price volatility.

        Although most of our investments will be U.S. dollar denominated, our investments that are denominated in a foreign currency will be subject to the risk that the value of a particular currency will change in relation to one or more other currencies. Among the factors that may affect currency values are trade balances, the level of short-term interest rates, differences in relative values of similar assets in different currencies, long-term opportunities for investment and capital appreciation and political developments. We may employ hedging techniques to minimize these risks, but we cannot assure you that such strategies will be effective or without risk to us.

We may expose ourselves to risks if we engage in hedging transactions.

        We have and may in the future enter into hedging transactions, which may expose us to risks associated with such transactions. We may utilize instruments such as forward contracts, currency options and interest rate swaps, caps, collars and floors to seek to hedge against fluctuations in the relative values of our portfolio positions from changes in currency exchange rates and market interest rates. Use of these hedging instruments may include counter-party credit risk.

        Hedging against a decline in the values of our portfolio positions does not eliminate the possibility of fluctuations in the values of such positions or prevent losses if the values of such positions decline. However, such hedging can establish other positions designed to gain from those same developments, thereby offsetting the decline in the value of such portfolio positions. Such hedging transactions may also limit the opportunity for gain if the values of the underlying portfolio positions should increase. Moreover, it may not be possible to hedge against an exchange rate or interest rate fluctuation that is so generally anticipated that we are not able to enter into a hedging transaction at an acceptable price.

        The success of our hedging transactions will depend on our ability to correctly predict movements in currencies and interest rates. Therefore, while we may enter into such transactions to seek to reduce currency exchange rate and interest rate risks, unanticipated changes in currency exchange rates or interest rates may result in poorer overall investment performance than if we had not engaged in any such hedging transactions. In addition, the degree of correlation between price movements of the instruments used in a hedging strategy and price movements in the portfolio positions being hedged may vary. Moreover, for a variety of reasons, we may not seek to (or be able to) establish a perfect correlation between such hedging instruments and the portfolio holdings being hedged. Any such imperfect correlation may prevent us from achieving the intended hedge and expose us to risk of loss. In addition, it may not be possible to hedge fully or perfectly against currency fluctuations affecting the value of securities denominated in non-U.S. currencies because the value of those securities is likely to fluctuate as a result of factors not related to currency fluctuations. See also "Risk Factors—Risk Relating to Our Business—We are exposed to risks associated with changes in interest rates."

RISKS RELATING TO OUR COMMON STOCK AND PUBLICLY TRADED NOTES

Our shares of common stock have traded at a discount from net asset value and may do so again in the future, which could limit our ability to raise additional equity capital.

        Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a market price that is less than the net asset value that is attributable to those shares. This characteristic of closed-end investment companies is separate and distinct from the risk that our net asset value per share may decline. It is not possible to predict whether any shares of our common stock will trade at, above, or below net asset value. In the recent past, including during much of 2009, the stocks of BDCs as an industry, including

46


at times shares of our common stock, traded below net asset value and at near historic lows as a result of concerns over liquidity, leverage restrictions and distribution requirements. When our common stock is trading below its net asset value per share, we will generally not be able to issue additional shares of our common stock at its market price without first obtaining approval for such issuance from our stockholders and our independent directors. At our 2012 annual stockholders meeting, subject to certain determinations required to be made by our board of directors, our stockholders approved our ability to sell or otherwise issue shares of our common stock, not exceeding 25% of our then outstanding common stock, at a price below the then current net asset value per share during a period beginning on June 4, 2012 and expiring on the earlier of June 4, 2013 and the date of our 2013 annual stockholders meeting.

There is a risk that investors in our common stock may not receive dividends or that our dividends may not grow over time and that investors in our debt securities may not receive all of the interest income to which they are entitled.

        We intend to make distributions on a quarterly basis to our stockholders out of assets legally available for distribution. We cannot assure you that we will achieve investment results that will allow us to make a specified level of cash distributions or year-to-year increases in cash distributions. If we declare a dividend and if more stockholders opt to receive cash distributions rather than participate in our dividend reinvestment plan, we may be forced to sell some of our investments in order to make cash dividend payments.

        In addition, due to the asset coverage test applicable to us as a BDC, we may be limited in our ability to make distributions. Further, if we invest a greater amount of assets in equity securities that do not pay current dividends, it could reduce the amount available for distribution. See "Dividend/Distribution Policy."

        The above-referenced restrictions on distributions may also inhibit our ability to make required interest payments to holders of our debt, which may cause a default under the terms of our debt agreements. Such a default could materially increase our cost of raising capital, as well as cause us to incur penalties under the terms of our debt agreements.

Provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law and of our charter and bylaws could deter takeover attempts and have an adverse impact on the price of our common stock.

        The Maryland General Corporation Law, our charter and our bylaws contain provisions that may discourage, delay or make more difficult a change in control of Ares Capital or the removal of our directors. We are subject to the Maryland Business Combination Act (the "Business Combination Act"), subject to any applicable requirements of the Investment Company Act. Our board of directors has adopted a resolution exempting from the Business Combination Act any business combination between us and any other person, subject to prior approval of such business combination by our board, including approval by a majority of our disinterested directors. If the resolution exempting business combinations is repealed or our board or disinterested directors do not approve a business combination, the Business Combination Act may discourage third parties from trying to acquire control of us and increase the difficulty of consummating such an offer. Our bylaws exempt from the Maryland Control Share Acquisition Act (the "Control Share Acquisition Act") acquisitions of our stock by any person. If we amend our bylaws to repeal the exemption from the Control Share Acquisition Act, the Control Share Acquisition Act also may make it more difficult for a third party to obtain control of us and increase the difficulty of consummating such an offer.

        We have also adopted measures that may make it difficult for a third party to obtain control of us, including provisions of our charter classifying our board of directors into three classes serving staggered three-year terms, and provisions of our charter authorizing our board of directors to classify or

47


reclassify shares of our stock into one or more classes or series, to cause the issuance of additional shares of our stock, and to amend our charter from time to time, without stockholder approval, to increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares of stock or the number of shares of stock of any class or series that we have authority to issue. These provisions, as well as other provisions of our charter and bylaws, may discourage, delay, defer, make more difficult or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might otherwise be in your best interest.

Investing in our common stock may involve an above average degree of risk.

        The investments we make in accordance with our investment objective may result in a higher amount of risk than alternative investment options and volatility or loss of principal. Our investments in portfolio companies may be highly speculative and aggressive and, therefore, an investment in our securities may not be suitable for someone with lower risk tolerance.

The market price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly.

        The capital and credit markets have experienced periods of extreme volatility and disruption over the past several years. The market price and liquidity of the market for shares of our common stock may be significantly affected by numerous factors, some of which are beyond our control and may not be directly related to our operating performance. These factors include:

        In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company's securities, securities class action litigation has often been brought against that company. If our stock price fluctuates significantly, we may be the target of securities litigation in the future. Securities litigation could result in substantial costs and divert management's attention and resources from our business.

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We may in the future determine to issue preferred stock, which could adversely affect the market value of our common stock.

        The issuance of shares of preferred stock with dividend or conversion rights, liquidation preferences or other economic terms favorable to the holders of preferred stock could adversely affect the market price for our common stock by making an investment in the common stock less attractive. In addition, the dividends on any preferred stock we issue must be cumulative. Payment of dividends and repayment of the liquidation preference of preferred stock must take preference over any dividends or other payments to our common stockholders, and holders of preferred stock are not subject to any of our expenses or losses and are not entitled to participate in any income or appreciation in excess of their stated preference (other than convertible preferred stock that converts into common stock). In addition, under the Investment Company Act, preferred stock constitutes a "senior security" for purposes of the 200% asset coverage test.

Our stockholders will experience dilution in their ownership percentage if they opt out of our dividend reinvestment plan.

        All dividends declared in cash payable to stockholders that are participants in our dividend reinvestment plan are automatically reinvested in shares of our common stock. As a result, our stockholders that opt out of our dividend reinvestment plan will experience dilution in their ownership percentage of our common stock over time.

Our stockholders may experience dilution upon the conversion of the Convertible Unsecured Notes.

        The February 2016 Convertible Notes are convertible into shares of our common stock beginning August 15, 2015 or, under certain circumstances, earlier. The June 2016 Convertible Notes are convertible into shares of our common stock beginning on December 15, 2015 or, under certain circumstances, earlier. The 2017 Convertible Notes are convertible into shares of our common stock beginning on September 15, 2016 or, under certain circumstances, earlier. The 2018 Convertible Notes are convertible into shares of our common stock beginning on July 15, 2017 or, under certain circumstances, earlier. Upon conversion of the Convertible Unsecured Notes, we have the choice to pay or deliver, as the case may be, at our election, cash, shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock. The current conversion price of the February 2016 Convertible Notes is approximately $18.89 per share of common stock, the current conversion price of the June 2016 Convertible Notes is approximately $18.80 per share, the current conversion price of the 2017 Convertible Notes is approximately $19.21 per share and the current conversion price of the 2018 Convertible Notes is approximately $19.81 per share, in each case subject to adjustment in certain circumstances. If we elect to deliver shares of common stock upon a conversion at the time our tangible book value per share exceeds the conversion price in effect at such time, our stockholders may incur dilution. In addition, our stockholders will experience dilution in their ownership percentage of common stock upon our issuance of common stock in connection with the conversion of the Convertible Unsecured Notes and any dividends paid on our common stock will also be paid on shares issued in connection with such conversion after such issuance.

Our stockholders may receive shares of our common stock as dividends, which could result in adverse tax consequences to them.

        In order to satisfy the annual distribution requirement applicable to RICs, we have the ability to declare a large portion of a dividend in shares of our common stock instead of in cash. As long as a portion of such dividend is paid in cash (which portion can be as low as 10% for dividends declared with respect to our taxable years ending on or before December 31, 2011) and certain requirements are met, the entire distribution would be treated as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, a stockholder would be taxed on 100% of the fair market value of the dividend on the date a

49


stockholder received it in the same manner as a cash dividend, even though most of the dividend was paid in shares of 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.

        Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock, or the availability of such common stock for sale (including as a result of the conversion of our Convertible Unsecured Notes into common stock), 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.

The trading market or market value of our publicly issued debt securities may fluctuate.

        Our publicly issued debt securities may or may not have an established trading market. We cannot assure our noteholders that a trading market for our publicly issued debt securities will ever develop or be maintained if developed. In addition to our creditworthiness, many factors may materially adversely affect the trading market for, and market value of, our publicly issued debt securities. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

        Our noteholders should also be aware that there may be a limited number of buyers when they decide to sell their debt securities. This too may materially adversely affect the market value of the debt securities or the trading market for the debt securities.

Terms relating to redemption may materially adversely affect our noteholders return on any debt securities that we may issue.

        If our noteholders' debt securities are redeemable at our option, we may choose to redeem their debt securities at times when prevailing interest rates are lower than the interest rate paid on their debt securities. In addition, if our noteholders' debt securities are subject to mandatory redemption, we may be required to redeem their debt securities also at times when prevailing interest rates are lower than the interest rate paid on their debt securities. In this circumstance, our noteholders may not be able to reinvest the redemption proceeds in a comparable security at an effective interest rate as high as their debt securities being redeemed.

Our credit ratings may not reflect all risks of an investment in our debt securities.

        Our credit ratings are an assessment by third parties of our ability to pay our obligations. Consequently, real or anticipated changes in our credit ratings will generally affect the market value of our debt securities. Our credit ratings, however, may not reflect the potential impact of risks related to

50


market conditions generally or other factors discussed above on the market value of or trading market for the publicly issued debt securities.

Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments

        None.

Item 2.    Properties

        We do not own any real estate or other physical properties materially important to our operation. Our headquarters are currently located at 245 Park Avenue, 44th Floor, New York, New York 10167. We rent the New York office space directly from a third party pursuant to a lease that expires in February 2026. We entered into separate subleases with Ares Management and IHAM, pursuant to which Ares Management and IHAM sublease approximately 15% and 20%, respectively, of our New York office space, for a fixed rent equal to 15% and 20%, respectively, of the basic annual rent payable by us under our office lease, plus certain additional costs and expenses. We have also entered into a sublease with ACREM, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management, pursuant to which we are subleasing approximately 12% of ACREM's Chicago office space for a fixed rent equal to 12% of the basic annual rent payable by ACREM under its Chicago office lease, plus certain additional costs and expenses.

Item 3.    Legal Proceedings

        We are party to certain lawsuits in the normal course of business. In addition, Allied Capital was involved in various legal proceedings that we assumed in connection with the Allied Acquisition. Furthermore, third parties may try to seek to impose liability on us in connection with the activities of our portfolio companies. While the outcome of any such legal proceedings cannot at this time be predicted with certainty, we do not expect that these legal proceedings will materially affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures

        Not applicable.

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PART II

Item 5.    Market For Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters And Issuer Purchases Of Equity Securities

PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK

        Our common stock is traded on The NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol "ARCC." Our common stock has historically traded at prices both above and below our net asset value per share. It is not possible to predict whether our common stock will trade at, above or below net asset value. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to our Common Stock and Publicly Traded Notes—Our shares of common stock have traded at a discount from net asset value and may do so again in the future, which could limit our ability to raise additional equity capital."

        The following table sets forth the net asset value per share of our common stock, the range of high and low closing sales prices of our common stock as reported on The NASDAQ Global Select Market and the dividends declared by us for each fiscal quarter for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2012. On February 22, 2013, the last reported closing sales price of our common stock on The NASDAQ Global Select Market was $18.30 per share, which represented a premium of approximately 14% to the net asset value per share reported by us as of December 31, 2012.

 
   
  Price Range    
 
 
  Net Asset
Value(1)
  Cash Dividend
Per Share(2)
 
 
  High   Low  

Fiscal 2011

                         

First Quarter

  $ 15.45   $ 17.83   $ 16.08   $ 0.35  

Second Quarter

  $ 15.28   $ 17.71   $ 15.70   $ 0.35  

Third Quarter

  $ 15.13   $ 16.30   $ 13.07   $ 0.35  

Fourth Quarter

  $ 15.34   $ 15.95   $ 13.26   $ 0.36  

Fiscal 2012

                         

First Quarter

  $ 15.47   $ 16.70   $ 15.51   $ 0.37  

Second Quarter

  $ 15.51   $ 16.55   $ 14.67   $ 0.37  

Third Quarter

  $ 15.74   $ 17.68   $ 16.04   $ 0.43 (3)

Fourth Quarter

  $ 16.04   $ 17.74   $ 16.08   $ 0.43 (3)

(1)
Net asset value per share is determined as of the last day in the relevant quarter and therefore may not reflect the net asset value per share on the date of the high and low closing sales prices. The net asset values shown are based on outstanding shares at the end of the relevant quarter.

(2)
Represents the dividends declared in the relevant quarter.

(3)
Consists of a quarterly dividend of $0.38 per share and an additional dividend of $0.05 per share.


HOLDERS

        As of February 22, 2013, there were 1,892 holders of record of our common stock (including Cede & Co.).


DIVIDEND/DISTRIBUTION POLICY

        We currently intend to distribute dividends or make distributions to our stockholders on a quarterly basis out of assets legally available for distribution. We may also distribute additional dividends or make additional distributions to our stockholders from time to time. Our quarterly and additional dividends or distributions, if any, will be determined by our board of directors.

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        The following table summarizes our dividends declared during 2011 and 2012:

Date Declared
  Record Date   Payment Date   Amount  

March 1, 2011

  March 15, 2011   March 30, 2011   $ 0.35  

May 3, 2011

  June 15, 2011   June 30, 2011   $ 0.35  

August 4, 2011

  September 15, 2011   September 30, 2011   $ 0.35  

November 8, 2011

  December 15, 2011   December 30, 2011   $ 0.36  
               

Total declared for 2011

          $ 1.41  
               

February 28, 2012

  March 15, 2012   March 30, 2012   $ 0.37  

May 8, 2012

  June 15, 2012   June 29, 2012   $ 0.37  

August 7, 2012

  September 14, 2012   September 28, 2012   $ 0.38  

August 7, 2012

  September 14, 2012   September 28, 2012   $ 0.05 (1)

November 5, 2012

  December 14, 2012   December 28, 2012   $ 0.38  

November 5, 2012

  December 14, 2012   December 28, 2012   $ 0.05 (1)
               

Total declared for 2012

          $ 1.60  
               

(1)
Represents an additional dividend.

        Of the $1.60 per share in dividends declared during the year ended December 31, 2012, $1.56 per share was comprised of ordinary income and $0.04 per share was comprised of long-term capital gains.

        To maintain our RIC status, we must timely distribute an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income (as defined by the Code, which generally includes net ordinary income and net short term taxable gains) to our stockholders. In addition, the Company generally will be required to pay an excise tax equal to 4% of the amount by which (i) 98% of the Company's ordinary income recognized during a calendar year and (ii) 98.2% of the Company's capital gain net income, as defined by the Code, recognized for the one year period ending on October 31st of a calendar year exceeds the distributions for the year. The taxable income on which excise tax is paid is generally distributed to stockholders in the next tax year. Depending on the level of taxable income earned in a tax year, we may choose to carry forward taxable income for distribution in the following year, and pay any applicable excise tax. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we recorded an excise tax expense of $7.9 million and $6.6 million, respectively. We cannot assure you that we will achieve results that will permit the payment of any cash distributions. We maintain an "opt out" dividend reinvestment plan for our common stockholders. As a result, if we declare a cash dividend, stockholders' cash dividends will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock, unless they specifically opt out of the dividend reinvestment plan so as to receive cash dividends.


RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED EQUITY SECURITIES

        We have reported all sales of our unregistered equity securities that occurred during the period covered by this report in our Reports on Form 10-Q or Form 8-K, as applicable.


ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

        For the year ended December 31, 2012, we did not purchase any shares of our common stock.

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COMPARISON OF CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN AMONG ARES CAPITAL
CORPORATION, S&P 500 INDEX AND S&P SPECIALIZED FINANCE INDEX

Comparison of Cumulative Five-Year Total Return

GRAPHIC

SOURCE:   Standard & Poor's Institutional Market Services
NOTES:   Assumes $100 invested on December 31, 2007 in Ares Capital, in S&P 500 Index and in S&P Specialized Finance Index. Assumes all dividends are reinvested on the respective dividend payment dates without commissions.

 

 
  Dec08   Dec09   Dec10   Dec11   Dec12    
 

Ares Capital

    56.08     123.70     179.88     184.54     225.86        

S&P 500 Index

    63.00     79.67     91.68     93.61     108.59        

S&P Specialized Finance Index

    34.72     44.53     46.56     42.76     50.47        

        The graph and other information furnished under this Part II Item 5(d) of this Form 10-K shall not be deemed to be "soliciting material" or to be "filed" with the SEC or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C, or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, as amended.

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Item 6.    Selected Financial Data

        The following selected financial and other data for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are derived from our consolidated financial statements which have been audited by KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm whose report thereon is included elsewhere in this Annual Report. The data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," which are included elsewhere in this Annual Report.


ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)

 
  As of and For the Year Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010   2009   2008  

Total Investment Income

  $ 748.0   $ 634.5   $ 483.4   $ 245.3   $ 240.4  

Total Expenses

    387.9     344.6     262.2     111.3     113.2  
                       

Net Investment Income Before Income Taxes

    360.1     289.9     221.2     134.0     127.2  

Income Tax Expense, Including Excise Tax

    11.2     7.5     5.4     0.6     0.2  
                       

Net Investment Income

    348.9     282.4     215.8     133.4     127.0  

Net Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments, Foreign Currencies, Extinguishment of Debt and Other Assets

    159.3     37.1     280.1     69.3     (266.5 )

Gain on the Allied Acquisition(1)

            195.9          
                       

Net Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Resulting from Operations

  $ 508.2   $ 319.5   $ 691.8   $ 202.7   $ (139.5 )
                       

Per Share Data:

                               

Net Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Resulting from Operations:

                               

Basic(2)

  $ 2.21   $ 1.56   $ 3.91   $ 1.99   $ (1.56 )

Diluted(2)

  $ 2.21   $ 1.56   $ 3.91   $ 1.99   $ (1.56 )

Cash Dividends Declared

  $ 1.60   $ 1.41   $ 1.40   $ 1.47   $ 1.68  

Net Asset Value

  $ 16.04   $ 15.34   $ 14.92   $ 11.44   $ 11.27  

Total Assets

  $ 6,401.2   $ 5,387.4   $ 4,562.5   $ 2,313.5   $ 2,091.3  

Total Debt (Carrying Value)

  $ 2,195.9   $ 2,073.6   $ 1,378.5   $ 969.5   $ 908.8  

Total Debt (Principal Value)

  $ 2,293.8   $ 2,170.5   $ 1,435.1   $ 969.5   $ 908.8  

Total Stockholders' Equity

  $ 3,988.3   $ 3,147.3   $ 3,050.5   $ 1,257.9   $ 1,094.9  

Other Data:

                               

Number of Portfolio Companies at Period End(3)

    152     141     170     95     91  

Principal Amount of Investments Purchased

  $ 3,161.6   $ 3,239.0   $ 1,583.9   $ 575.0   $ 925.9  

Principal Amount of Investments Acquired as part of the Allied Acquisition

  $   $   $ 1,833.8   $   $  

Principal Amount of Investments Sold and Repayments

  $ 2,482.9   $ 2,468.2   $ 1,555.9   $ 515.2   $ 485.3  

Total Return Based on Market Value(4)

    23.6 %   2.3 %   43.6 %   119.9 %   (45.3 )%

Total Return Based on Net Asset Value(5)

    14.3 %   10.5 %   31.6 %   17.8 %   (11.2 )%

Weighted Average Yield of Debt and Other Income Producing Securities at Fair Value(6)

    11.3 %   12.0 %   12.9 %   12.7 %   12.8 %

Weighted Average Yield of Debt and Other Income Producing Securities at Amortized Cost(6)

    11.4 %   12.1 %   13.2 %   12.1 %   11.7 %

(1)
See Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 for more information on the Allied Acquisition.

(2)
In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 260-10, the weighted average shares of common stock outstanding used in computing basic and diluted earnings per common share have been adjusted retroactively by a factor of 1.02% to recognize the bonus element associated with rights to acquire

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(3)
Includes commitments to portfolio companies for which funding had yet to occur.

(4)
Total return based on market value for the year ended December 31, 2012 equalled the increase of the ending market value at December 31, 2012 of $17.50 per share from the ending market value at December 31, 2011 of $15.45 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.60 per share for the year ended December 31, 2012. Total return based on market value for the year ended December 31, 2011 equalled the decrease of the ending market value at December 30, 2011 of $15.45 per share from the ending market value at December 31, 2010 of $16.48 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.41 per share for the year ended December 31, 2011. Total return based on market value for the year ended December 31, 2010 equalled the increase of the ending market value at December 31, 2010 of $16.48 per share over the ending market value at December 31, 2009 of $12.45 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.40 per share for the year ended December 31, 2010. Total return based on market value for the year ended December 31, 2009 equalled the increase of the ending market value at December 31, 2009 of $12.45 per share over the ending market value at December 31, 2008 of $6.33 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.47 per share for the year ended December 31, 2009. Total return based on market value for the year ended December 31, 2008 equalled the decrease of the ending market value at December 31, 2008 of $6.33 per share from the ending market value at December 31, 2007 of $14.63 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.68 per share for the year ended December 31, 2008. Total return based on market value is not annualized. Our shares fluctuate in value. Our performance changes over time and currently may be different than that shown. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

(5)
Total return based on net asset value for the year ended December 31, 2012 equalled the change in net asset value during the period (adjusted for share issuances) plus the declared dividends of $1.60 per share for the year ended December 31, 2012, divided by the beginning net asset value. Total return based on net asset value for the year ended December 31, 2011 equalled the change in net asset value during the period (adjusted for share issuances) plus the declared dividends of $1.41 per share for the year ended December 31, 2011, divided by the beginning net asset value. Total return based on net asset value for the year ended December 31, 2010 equalled the change in net asset value during the period (adjusted for share issuances) plus the declared dividends of $1.40 per share for the year ended December 31, 2010, divided by the beginning net asset value. Total return based on net asset value for the year ended December 31, 2009 equalled the change in net asset value during the period (adjusted for share issuances) plus the declared dividends of $1.47 per share for the year ended December 31, 2009, divided by the beginning net asset value. Total return based on net asset value for the year ended December 31, 2008 equalled the change in net asset value during the period (adjusted for share issuances) plus the declared dividends of $1.68 per share for the year ended December 31, 2008, divided by the beginning net asset value. Total return based on net asset value is not annualized. Our performance changes over time and currently may be different than that shown. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

(6)
Weighted average yield of debt and other income producing securities at fair value is computed as (a) the annual stated interest rate or yield earned plus the net annual amortization of original issue discount and market discount earned on accruing debt and income producing securities, divided by (b) total debt and income producing securities at fair value and income producing securities. Weighted average yield of debt and other income producing securities at amortized cost is computed as (a) annual stated interest rate or yield earned plus the net annual amortization of original issue discount and market discount earned on accruing debt and income producing securities, divided by (b) total debt and income producing securities at amortized cost.

56


Item 7.    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 Selected Financial Data and our financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report. In addition, some of the statements in this report (including in the following discussion) constitute forward- looking statements, which relate to future events or the future performance or financial condition of Ares Capital Corporation (the "Company," "ARCC," "Ares Capital," "we," "us," or "our"). The forward-looking statements contained in this report involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements concerning:

        We use words such as "anticipates," "believes," "expects," "intends," "will," "should," "may" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements include these words. Our actual results and condition could differ materially from those implied or expressed in the forward-looking statements for any reason, including the factors set forth in "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in this Annual Report.

57


        We have based the forward-looking statements included in this Annual Report on information available to us on the date of this Annual Report, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Although we undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we have filed or in the future may file with the SEC, including annual reports on Form 10-K, registration statements on Form N-2, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.

OVERVIEW

        We are a specialty finance company that is a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company incorporated in Maryland. We have elected to be regulated as a BDC under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the "Investment Company Act").

        We are externally managed by Ares Capital Management, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management, a global alternative asset manager and an SEC-registered investment adviser, pursuant to our investment advisory and management agreement. Ares Operations, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management, provides certain administrative and other services necessary for us to operate.

        Our investment objective is to generate both current income and capital appreciation through debt and equity investments. We invest primarily in first lien senior secured loans (including unitranche loans), second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt, which in some cases includes an equity component like warrants.

        To a lesser extent, we also make preferred and/or common equity investments, which have generally been non-control equity investments, of less than $20 million (usually in conjunction with a concurrent debt investment). However, we may increase the size or change the nature of these investments.

        As a BDC, we are required to comply with certain regulatory requirements. For instance, we generally have to invest at least 70% of our total assets in "qualifying assets," including securities and indebtedness of private U.S. companies and certain public U.S. companies, cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities and high-quality debt investments that mature in one year or less. We also may invest up to 30% of our portfolio in non-qualifying assets, as permitted by the Investment Company Act. Specifically, as part of this 30% basket, we may invest in entities that are not considered "eligible portfolio companies" (as defined in the Investment Company Act), including companies located outside of the United States, entities that are operating pursuant to certain exceptions under the Investment Company Act, and publicly traded entities whose public equity market capitalization exceeds the levels provided for under the Investment Company Act.

        We have elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code, and operate in a manner so as to qualify for the tax treatment applicable to RICs. To qualify as a RIC, we must, among other things, meet certain source-of-income and asset diversification requirements and timely distribute to our stockholders generally at least 90% of our investment company taxable income, as defined by the Code, for each year. Pursuant to this election, we generally will not have to pay corporate level taxes on any income that we distribute to our stockholders provided that we satisfy those requirements.

58


PORTFOLIO AND INVESTMENT ACTIVITY

        The Company's investment activity for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 is presented below (information presented herein is at amortized cost unless otherwise indicated).

 
  Year Ended December 31,  
(dollar amounts in millions)
  2012   2011   2010  

New investment commitments(1):

                   

New portfolio companies

  $ 1,794.7   $ 1,778.0   $ 774.3  

Existing portfolio companies(2)

    1,402.3     1,896.4     933.8  
               

Total new investment commitments

    3,197.0     3,674.4     1,708.1  

Less:

                   

Investment commitments exited

    2,614.5     2,603.1     1,644.5  
               

Net investment commitments

  $ 582.5   $ 1,071.3   $ 63.6  

Principal amount of investments funded:

                   

Senior term debt

  $ 2,686.4   $ 2,484.2   $ 1,376.4  

Subordinated Certificates of the SSLP(3)

    270.0     496.8     391.6  

Senior subordinated debt

    101.3     51.8     1,055.3  

Collateralized loan obligations

            166.1  

Preferred equity securities

        164.1     91.7  

Other equity securities

    103.9     41.2     295.4  

Commercial real estate

        0.9     41.2  
               

Total

  $ 3,161.6   $ 3,239.0   $ 3,417.7  

Principal amount of investments sold or repaid:

                   

Senior term debt

  $ 1,786.9   $ 1,607.5   $ 987.4  

Subordinated Certificates of the SSLP

    66.3         15.4  

Senior subordinated debt

    409.0     463.2     461.9  

Collateralized loan obligations

    55.5     166.3     6.8  

Preferred equity securities

    26.2     43.5     21.5  

Other equity securities

    126.0     166.1     61.9  

Commercial real estate

    13.0     21.6     1.0  
               

Total

  $ 2,482.9   $ 2,468.2   $ 1,555.9  

Number of new investment commitments(4)

    82     72     63  

Average new investment commitment amount

  $ 39.0   $ 51.0   $ 27.1  

Weighted average term for new investment commitments (in months)

    66     63     61  

Percentage of new investment commitments at floating rates

    88 %   94 %   71 %

Percentage of new investment commitments at fixed rates

    8 %   5 %   23 %

Weighted average yield of debt and other income producing securities(5):

                   

Funded during the period at fair value(6)

    9.9 %   10.9 %   13.1 %

Funded during the period at amortized cost

    9.9 %   10.9 %   13.2 %

Exited or repaid during the period at fair value(6)

    9.6 %   10.1 %   12.9 %

Exited or repaid during the period at amortized cost

    9.7 %   10.2 %   12.9 %

(1)
New investment commitments include new agreements to fund revolving credit facilities or delayed draw loans.

(2)
Includes investment commitments to the SSLP to make co-investments with GE in first lien senior secured loans of middle market companies of $270.0 million, $496.8 million and $391.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

59


(3)
See "Senior Secured Loan Program" below and Note 4 to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 for more detail on the SSLP.

(4)
Number of new investment commitments represents each commitment to a particular portfolio company.

(5)
"Weighted average yield of debt and other income producing securities at fair value" is computed as the (a) annual stated interest rate or yield earned plus the net annual amortization of original issue discount and market discount earned on accruing debt and other income producing securities, divided by (b) total debt and other income producing securities at fair value. "Weighted average yield of debt and other income producing securities at amortized cost" is computed as the (a) annual stated interest rate or yield earned plus the net annual amortization of original issue discount and market discount earned on accruing debt and other income producing securities, divided by (b) total debt and other income producing securities at amortized cost.

(6)
Represents fair value for investments in the portfolio as of the most recent prior quarter end, if applicable.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, our investments consisted of the following:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
(in millions)
  Amortized Cost   Fair Value   Amortized Cost   Fair Value  

Senior term debt

  $ 3,587.8   $ 3,555.1   $ 2,691.0   $ 2,671.1  

Subordinated Certificates of the SSLP(1)

    1,237.9     1,263.6     1,034.3     1,059.2  

Senior subordinated debt

    321.3     259.8     592.6     515.0  

Collateralized loan obligations

            55.5     54.0  

Preferred equity securities

    238.8     250.1     251.2     251.1  

Other equity securities

    430.4     584.1     463.9     527.0  

Commercial real estate

    7.3     11.9     20.2     17.1  
                   

Total

  $ 5,823.5   $ 5,924.6   $ 5,108.7   $ 5,094.5  
                   

(1)
The proceeds from these certificates were applied to co-investments with GE to fund first lien senior secured loans to 36 and 32 different borrowers as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

60


        The weighted average yields at fair value and amortized cost of the following portions of our portfolio as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
 
  Amortized Cost   Fair Value   Amortized Cost   Fair Value  

Debt and other income producing securities

    11.4 %   11.3 %   12.1 %   12.0 %

Total portfolio

    10.1 %   10.0 %   10.4 %   10.4 %

Senior term debt

    9.5 %   9.6 %   10.5 %   10.5 %

First lien senior term debt

    9.0 %   9.0 %   9.6 %   9.7 %

Second lien senior term debt

    10.5 %   10.7 %   12.4 %   12.4 %

Subordinated Certificates of the SSLP(1)

    15.8 %   15.4 %   16.0 %   15.7 %

Senior subordinated debt

    11.7 %   14.5 %   10.3 %   11.9 %

Collateralized loan obligations

    %   %   8.8 %   9.1 %

Income producing equity securities (excluding collateralized loan obligations)

    9.9 %   8.8 %   10.4 %   10.0 %

(1)
The proceeds from these certificates were applied to co-investments with GE to fund first lien senior secured loans.

        Ares Capital Management, our investment adviser, employs an investment rating system to categorize our investments. In addition to various risk management and monitoring tools, our investment adviser grades the credit risk of all investments on a scale of 1 to 4 no less frequently than quarterly. This system is intended primarily to reflect the underlying risk of a portfolio investment relative to our initial cost basis in respect of such portfolio investment (i.e., at the time of acquisition), although it may also take into account under certain circumstances the performance of the portfolio company's business, the collateral coverage of the investment and other relevant factors. Under this system, investments with a grade of 4 involve the least amount of risk to our initial cost basis. The trends and risk factors for this investment since origination or acquisition are generally favorable, which may include the performance of the portfolio company or a potential exit. Investments graded 3 involve a level of risk to our initial cost basis that is similar to the risk to our initial cost basis at the time of origination or acquisition. This portfolio company is generally performing as expected and the risk factors to our ability to ultimately recoup the cost of our investment are neutral to favorable. All investments or acquired investments in new portfolio companies are initially assessed a grade of 3. Investments graded 2 indicate that the risk to our ability to recoup the initial cost basis of such investment has increased materially since origination or acquisition, including as a result of factors such as declining performance and non-compliance with debt covenants; however, payments are generally not more than 120 days past due. An investment grade of 1 indicates that the risk to our ability to recoup the initial cost basis of such investment has substantially increased since origination or acquisition, and the portfolio company likely has materially declining performance. For debt investments with an investment grade of 1, most or all of the debt covenants are out of compliance and payments are substantially delinquent. For investments graded 1, it is anticipated that we will not recoup our initial cost basis and may realize a substantial loss of our initial cost basis upon exit. For investments graded 1 or 2, our investment adviser enhances its level of scrutiny over the monitoring of such portfolio company. Our investment adviser grades the investments in our portfolio at least each quarter and it is possible that the grade of a portfolio investment may be reduced or increased over time.

61


        Set forth below is the grade distribution of our portfolio companies as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
(dollar amounts in millions)
  Fair
Value
  %   Number of
Companies
  %   Fair
Value
  %   Number of
Companies
  %  

Grade 1

  $ 75.1     1.3 %   9     5.9 % $ 77.1     1.5 %   9     6.4 %

Grade 2

    136.7     2.3 %   9     5.9 %   184.4     3.7 %   11     7.8 %

Grade 3

    5,108.8     86.2 %   121     79.7 %   4,265.5     83.7 %   110     78.0 %

Grade 4

    604.0     10.2 %   13     8.5 %   567.5     11.1 %   11     7.8 %
                                   

Total

  $ 5,924.6     100.0 %   152     100.0 % $ 5,094.5     100.0 %   141     100.0 %
                                   

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the weighted average grade of the investments in our portfolio at fair value was 3.1 and 3.0, respectively.

        As of December 31, 2012, loans on non-accrual status represented 2.3% and 0.6% of the total investments at amortized cost and at fair value, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, loans on non-accrual status represented 3.3% and 0.9% of the total investments at amortized cost and at fair value, respectively.

Senior Secured Loan Program

        The Company co-invests in first lien senior secured loans of middle market companies with GE through an unconsolidated Delaware limited liability company, the Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC (d/b/a "The Senior Secured Loan Program") or the SSLP. The SSLP is capitalized as transactions are completed and all portfolio decisions and generally all other decisions in respect of the SSLP must be approved by an investment committee of the SSLP consisting of representatives of the Company and GE (with approval from a representative of each required). The Company provides capital to the SSLP in the form of subordinated certificates (the "SSLP Certificates").

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the SSLP had available capital of $9.0 billion and $7.7 billion, respectively, of which approximately $6.3 billion and $5.0 billion in aggregate principal amount was funded at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had agreed to make available to the SSLP approximately $1.8 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively, of which approximately $1.2 billion and $1.0 billion was funded, respectively. Investment of any unfunded amount must still be approved by the investment committee of the SSLP as described above.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the SSLP had total assets of $6.3 billion and $5.1 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, GE's investment in the SSLP consisted of senior notes of $4.8 billion and $3.8 billion, respectively, and SSLP Certificates of $178 million and $149 million, respectively. The SSLP Certificates are junior in right of payment to the senior notes held by GE. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company and GE owned 87.5% and 12.5%, respectively, of the outstanding SSLP Certificates.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the SSLP's portfolio was comprised of all first lien senior secured loans to U.S. middle-market companies and none of these loans was on non-accrual status. The portfolio companies in the SSLP are in industries similar to the companies in the Company's portfolio.

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        Below is a summary of the SSLP's portfolio, followed by a listing of the individual first lien senior secured loans in the SSLP's portfolio as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

 
  As of December 31,  
(dollar amounts in millions)
  2012   2011  

Total first lien senior secured loans(1)

  $ 5,998.1   $ 5,017.9  

Weighted average yield on first lien senior secured loans(2)

    8.0 %   8.2 %

Number of borrowers in the SSLP

    36     32  

Largest loan to a single borrower(1)

  $ 330.0   $ 300.0  

Total of five largest loans to borrowers(1)

  $ 1,441.4   $ 1,362.9  

(1)
At principal amount.

(2)
Computed as the (a) annual stated interest rate on accruing first lien senior secured loans, divided by (b) total first lien senior secured loans at principal amount.

63



SSLP Loan Portfolio as of December 31, 2012

(dollar amounts in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Business Description   Maturity
Date
  Stated
Interest
Rate(1)
  Principal
Amount
  Fair
Value(2)
 

Access CIG, LLC(3)

  Records and information management services provider     10/2017     7.0 % $ 152.8   $ 152.8  

ADG, LLC

  Dental services     10/2016     8.8 %   199.4     199.4  

AMZ Products Merger Corporation

  Specialty chemicals manufacturer     12/2018     6.8 %   240.0     240.0  

BECO Holding Company, Inc.(5)

  Wholesale distributor of first response fire protection equipment and related parts     12/2017     8.3 %   160.0     160.0  

Cambridge International, Inc. 

  Manufacturer of custom designed and engineered metal products     4/2018     8.0 %   88.3     83.9  

CCS Group Holdings, LLC(5)

  Correctional facility healthcare operator     4/2016     8.0 %   142.8     142.8  

Chariot Acquisition, LLC

  Distributor and designer of aftermarket golf cart parts and accessories     1/2018     8.8 %   146.8     146.8  

CIBT Holdings, Inc.(5)

  Expedited travel document processing services     12/2017     8.5 %   146.4     146.4  

CT Technologies Intermediate Holdings, Inc. and CT Technologies Holdings LLC(3)(5)

  Healthcare analysis services     3/2017     7.8 %   284.9     273.5  

CWD, LLC

  Supplier of automotive aftermarket brake parts     3/2014     8.8 %   119.8     110.2  

Drayer Physical Therapy Institute, LLC

  Outpatient physical therapy provider     7/2018     7.5 %   138.1     138.1  

Driven Holdings, LLC(5)

  Automotive aftermarket car care franchisor     3/2017     7.0 %   160.4     160.4  

Excelligence Learning Corporation(5)

  Developer, manufacturer and retailer of educational products     8/2016     8.0 %   115.8     115.8  

Fleischmann's Vinegar Company, Inc. 

  Manufacturer and marketer of industrial vinegar     5/2016     8.9 %   59.6     59.6  

Fox Hill Holdings, LLC

  Operating company that develops middle market manufacturing and industrial distribution companies     12/2017     8.0 %   292.5     292.5  

III US Holdings, LLC

  Provider of library automation software and systems     3/2018     7.6 %   202.9     202.9  

Implus Footcare, LLC(5)

  Provider of footwear and other accessories     10/2016     9.5 %   178.0     178.0  

Instituto de Banca y Comercio, Inc. & Leeds IV Advisors, Inc.(5)

  Private school operator     6/2015     10.5 %   165.6     165.6  

Intermedix Corporation(4)

  Revenue cycle management provider to the emergency healthcare industry     12/2018     6.3 %   330.0     330.0  

LJSS Acquisition, Inc. 

  Fluid power distribution company in the industrial and mobile equipment markets     9/2017     6.8 %   163.9     163.9  

MWI Holdings, Inc.(3)

  Highly engineered springs, fasteners, and other precision components     6/2017     8.0 %   251.2     251.2  

Nordco, Inc. 

  Designer and manufacturer of railroad maintenance-of-way machinery     6/2016     7.0 %   113.2     113.2  

Oak Parent, Inc.(3)

  Manufacturer of athletic apparel     4/2018     8.0 %   282.8     282.8  

Opinionology, LLC and Survey Sampling International LLC

  Provider of outsourced data collection to the market research industry     7/2017     8.5 %   152.3     152.3  

Penn Detroit Diesel Allison, LLC

  Distributor of new equipment and aftermarket parts to the heavy-duty truck industry     12/2016     9.0 %   65.3     65.3  

PetroChoice Holdings, LLC

  Provider of lubrication solutions     1/2017     10.0 %   162.4     162.4  

Power Buyer, LLC

  Provider of emergency maintenance services for power transmission, distribution, and substation infrastructure     12/2018     8.8 %   208.0     208.0  

Powersport Auctioneer Holdings, LLC(5)

  Powersport vehicle auction operator     12/2016     8.5 %   40.7     40.7  

Pregis Corporation, Pregis Intellipack Corp. and Pregis Innovative Packaging Inc.(3)

  Provider of highly-customized and tailored protective packaging solutions     3/2017     7.8 %   125.9     125.9  

PSSI Holdings, LLC

  Provider of mission-critical outsourced cleaning and sanitation services to the food processing industry     6/2017     6.8 %   161.7     161.7  

Selig Sealing Products, Inc. 

  Manufacturer of container sealing products for rigid packaging applications     7/2018     7.8 %   169.6     169.6  

Singer Sewing Company

  Manufacturer of consumer sewing machines     6/2017     7.3 %   199.0     199.0  

Strategic Partners, Inc. 

  Designer, manufacturer and distributor of medical uniforms     8/2018     7.8 %   234.4     234.4  

Talent Partners G.P. and Print Payroll Services, G.P. 

  Provider of technology-enabled payroll to the advertising industry     10/2017     8.0 %   65.5     65.5  

The Teaching Company, LLC and The Teaching Company Holdings, Inc.(3)(5)

  Education publications provider     3/2017     9.0 %   113.9     113.9  

WB Merger Sub, Inc. 

  Importer, distributor and developer of premium wine and spirits     12/2016     9.0 %   164.2     164.2  
                           

                  $ 5,998.1   $ 5,972.7  
                           

(1)
Represents the weighted average annual stated interest rate as of December 31, 2012. All interest rates are payable in cash.

(2)
Represents the fair value in accordance with ASC 820-10. The determination of such fair value is not included in the Company's board of directors valuation process described elsewhere herein.

(3)
The Company also holds a portion of the first lien senior secured loan in this portfolio company.

(4)
The Company also holds a second lien senior secured loan in the portfolio company.

(5)
The Company holds an equity investment in this portfolio company.

64



SSLP Loan Portfolio as of December 31, 2011

(dollar amounts in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Business Description   Maturity
Date
  Stated
Interest
Rate(1)
  Principal
Amount
  Fair
Value(2)
 

ADG, LLC

  Dental services     10/2016     8.8 % $ 176.4   $ 176.4  

AMZ Products Merger Corporation

  Specialty chemicals manufacturer     6/2014     7.8 %   156.6     156.6  

Anthony, Inc. and Anthony Holdings, Inc. 

  Manufacturer of refrigeration glass doors and related products     6/2017     7.1 %   243.8     243.8  

Augusta Sportswear, Inc.(3)

  Manufacturer of athletic apparel     7/2015     8.5 %   239.9     239.9  

BECO Holding Company, Inc.(5)

  Wholesale distributor of first response fire protection equipment and related parts     7/2015     9.0 %   116.0     116.0  

Cambridge International, Inc. 

  Manufacturer of custom designed and engineered metal products     12/2015     8.8 %   73.7     73.7  

CCS Group Holdings, LLC(5)

  Correctional facility healthcare operator     4/2016     8.0 %   109.9     109.9  

CIBT Holdings, Inc.(5)

  Expedited travel document processing services     12/2017     9.3 %   133.0     133.0  

CWD, LLC

  Supplier of automotive aftermarket brake parts     3/2014     8.8 %   123.8     123.8  

CT Technologies Intermediate Holdings, Inc. and CT Technologies Holdings LLC (3)(5)

  Healthcare analysis services     3/2017     7.8 %   288.5     274.1  

Driven Holdings, LLC(5)

  Automotive aftermarket car care franchisor     12/2016     8.5 %   170.0     170.0  

Excelligence Learning Corporation(5)

  Developer, manufacturer and retailer of educational products     8/2016     8.0 %   121.0     121.0  

Fleischmann's Vinegar Company, Inc. 

  Manufacturer and marketer of industrial vinegar     5/2016     8.8 %   62.3     62.3  

Fox Hill Holdings, LLC

  Operating company that develops middle market manufacturing and industrial distribution companies     12/2017     8.8 %   300.0     300.0  

Huddle House, Inc.(4)(5)

  Restaurant owner and operator     6/2013     11.0 %(6)   58.2     58.2  

Implus Footcare, LLC(5)

  Provider of footwear and other accessories     10/2016     9.5 %   179.8     179.8  

Industrial Air Tool, L.P. 

  Industrial products     6/2014     7.5 %   34.1     34.1  

Instituto de Banca y Comercio, Inc. & Leeds IV Advisors, Inc.(5)

  Private school operator     6/2015     10.5 %   173.8     173.8  

Intermedix Corporation

  Revenue cycle management provider to the emergency healthcare industry     8/2016     6.0 %   225.9     225.9  

LJSS Acquisition, Inc. 

  Fluid power distribution company in the industrial and mobile equipment markets     10/2017     8.8 %   167.0     167.0  

MWI Holdings, Inc.(3)

  Highly engineered springs, fasteners, and other precision components     6/2017     8.0 %   253.7     253.7  

Nivel Parts and Manufacturing Co., LLC

  Provider of golf car aftermarket parts and accessories     2/2016     8.0 %   88.0     88.0  

Nordco, Inc. 

  Designer and manufacturer of railroad maintenance-of-way machinery     6/2016     7.0 %   119.4     119.4  

Opinionology, LLC and Survey Sampling International LLC

  Provider of outsourced data collection to the market research industry     7/2017     9.0 %   158.5     158.5  

Penn Detroit Diesel Allison, LLC

  Distributor of new equipment and aftermarket parts to the heavy-duty truck industry     12/2016     9.0 %   66.0     66.0  

PG Mergersub, Inc. and PGA Holdings, Inc.(3)(4)(5)

  Provider of patient surveys, management reports and national databases for the integrated healthcare delivery system     11/2015     6.8 %   267.3     267.3  

Powersport Auctioneer Holdings, LLC

  Powersport vehicle auction operator     12/2016     8.8 %   74.5     74.5  

PSSI Holdings, LLC

  Provider of mission-critical outsourced cleaning and sanitation services to the food processing industry     6/2017     6.8 %   158.8     158.8  

The Teaching Company, LLC and The Teaching Company Holdings, Inc.(5)

  Education publications provider     3/2017     9.0 %   116.2     116.2  

United Central Industrial Supply Company, LLC

  Provider of mining supplies and services to the U.S. underground coal mining industry     10/2015     6.3 %   152.5     152.5  

WB Merger Sub, Inc. 

  Importer, distributor and developer of premium wine and spirits     12/2016     9.0 %   155.9     155.9  

WP CPP Holdings, LLC(3)

  Precision engineered castings manufacturer     10/2017     8.5 %   253.4     248.3  
                           

                  $ 5,017.9   $ 4,998.4  
                           

(1)
Represents the weighted average annual stated interest rate as of December 31, 2011. Unless otherwise stated, all interest rates are payable in cash.

(2)
Represents the fair value in accordance with ASC 820-10. The determination of such fair value is not included in the Company's board of directors valuation process described elsewhere herein.

(3)
The Company also holds a portion of the first lien senior secured loan in this portfolio company.

(4)
The Company holds a senior subordinated loan in this portfolio company.

(5)
The Company holds an equity investment in this portfolio company.

(6)
Consists of 9.0% interest payable in cash and 2.0% of payment-in-kind interest.

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        The amortized cost and fair value of the SSLP Certificates held by the Company was $1.2 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2012, and $1.0 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2011. The SSLP Certificates pay a weighted average contractual coupon of three month LIBOR plus approximately 8.0% and also entitle the holders thereof to receive a portion of the excess cash flow from the underlying loan portfolio, which may result in a return to the holders of the SSLP Certificates that is greater than both the contractual coupon on the SSLP Certificates as well as the weighted average yield on the SSLP's portfolio of 8.0% and 8.2% at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company's yield on its investment in the SSLP at fair value was 15.4% and 15.7% as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company earned interest income of $185 million, $118 million and $50 million, respectively, from its investment in the SSLP Certificates.

        The Company is also entitled to certain fees in connection with the SSLP. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, in connection with the SSLP, the Company earned capital structuring service fees and sourcing, management and other fees totaling $58 million, $55 million and $36 million, respectively.

        Effective March 30, 2012, Ares Capital Management assumed from the Company the role of co-manager of the SSLP. However, this change did not impact the Company's economics in respect of its participation in the SSLP and Ares Capital Management does not receive any remuneration in respect of its co-manager role.

        Below is certain summarized financial information for the SSLP as of and for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011  

Selected Balance Sheet Information:

             

Investments in loans receivable, net of discount for loan origination fees

  $ 5,952.3   $ 4,981.3  

Cash and other assets

  $ 369.2   $ 126.4  

Total assets

  $ 6,321.5   $ 5,107.7  

Senior notes

  $ 4,840.4   $ 3,846.2  

Other liabilities

  $ 46.9   $ 66.7  

Total liabilities

  $ 4,887.3   $ 3,912.9  

Subordinated certificates and members' equity

  $ 1,434.2   $ 1,194.8  

Total liabilities and members' capital

  $ 6,321.5   $ 5,107.7  

Selected Statement of Operations Information:

             

Total revenues

  $ 479.4   $ 284.8  

Total expenses

  $ 258.7   $ 155.7  

Net income

  $ 220.7   $ 129.1  

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

        Operating results for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 are as follows:

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011   2010  

Total investment income

  $ 748.0   $ 634.5   $ 483.4  

Total expenses

    387.9     344.6     262.2  
               

Net investment income before income taxes

    360.1     289.9     221.2  

Income tax expense, including excise tax

    11.2     7.5     5.4  
               

Net investment income

    348.9     282.4     215.8  

Net realized gains on investments

    46.7     96.6     45.5  

Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments

    115.3     (40.2 )   230.7  

Gain from the acquisition of Allied Capital

            195.9  

Realized losses on extinquishment of debt

    (2.7 )   (19.3 )   (2.0 )

Realized gain on sale of other assets

            5.9  
               

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

  $ 508.2   $ 319.5   $ 691.8  
               

Investment Income

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011   2010  

Interest income from investments

  $ 571.5   $ 473.2   $ 393.6  

Capital structuring service fees

    102.1     97.4     54.7  

Dividend income

    39.7     38.4     14.4  

Management and other fees

    18.9     16.7     14.4  

Other income

    15.8     8.8     6.3  
               

Total investment income

  $ 748.0   $ 634.5   $ 483.4  
               

        The increase in interest income from investments for the year ended December 31, 2012 from the comparable period in 2011 was primarily due to the increase in the size of the portfolio, which increased from an average of $4.6 billion at amortized cost for the year ended December 31, 2011 to an average of $5.5 billion at amortized cost for the comparable period in 2012. Even though new investment commitments decreased from $3.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2011 to $3.2 billion for the comparable period in 2012, capital structuring service fees increased for the year ended December 31, 2012 from the comparable period in 2011 primarily due to the increase in the average capital structuring service fees received on new investments, which increased from 2.7% in 2011 to 3.2% in 2012. For the year ended December 31, 2012, dividend income included $19.9 million from the Company's investment in IHAM as well as $2.2 million of dividend income that was non-recurring in nature from non-income producing equity securities. The increase in other income for the year ended December 31, 2012 from the comparable period in 2011 was primarily attributable to higher amendment, letter of credit and agency fees.

        The increase in interest income from investments for the year ended December 31, 2011 from the comparable period in 2010 was primarily due to the increase in the size of the portfolio, which increased from an average of $3.7 billion at amortized cost for the year ended December 31, 2010 to an average of $4.6 billion at amortized cost from the comparable period in 2011. The increase in

67


capital structuring service fees for the year ended December 31, 2011 from the comparable period in 2010 was primarily due to the increase in new investment commitments, which increased from $1.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010 to $3.7 billion for the comparable period in 2011. The increase in dividend income for the year ended December 31, 2011 from the comparable period in 2010 is primarily attributable to the increase in dividend income from IHAM, which was $7.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and $19.0 million for the comparable period in 2011, which resulted from the growth of and increased earnings of IHAM. In addition, there was an increase in dividends from certain portfolio companies in which we have an equity investment. Total dividend income for the year ended December 31, 2011 included $10.3 million of dividend income that was non-recurring in nature from non-income producing equity securities.

Operating Expenses

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011   2010  

Interest and credit facility fees

  $ 143.0   $ 122.5   $ 79.3  

Incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income

    95.2     79.0     61.3  

Incentive fees related to capital gains per GAAP

    31.9     33.3     15.6  

Base management fees

    86.2     71.6     52.0  

Professional fees

    12.0     16.7     29.9  

Administrative fees

    9.3     9.5     10.9  

Other general and administrative

    10.3     12.0     13.2  
               

Total operating expenses

  $ 387.9   $ 344.6   $ 262.2  
               

        Interest and credit facility fees for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, were comprised of the following:

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011   2010  

Stated interest expense

  $ 113.1   $ 92.2   $ 57.7  

Facility fees

    5.6     6.1     4.6  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    13.0     13.2     8.8  

Accretion of discount on notes payable

    11.3     11.0     8.2  
               

Total interest and credit facility fees expense

  $ 143.0   $ 122.5   $ 79.3  
               

        Stated interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased from the comparable period in 2011 due to the increase in the average principal amount of debt outstanding and an increase in our weighted average stated interest rate of our debt. For the year ended December 31, 2012, our average principal debt outstanding was $2.2 billion as compared to $1.8 billion for the comparable period in 2011, and the weighted average stated interest rate on our debt was 5.2% for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 5.1% for the comparable period in 2011.

        Stated interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2011 increased from the comparable period in 2010 due to the increase in our average principal debt outstanding and an increase in our weighted average stated interest rate of our debt. For the year ended December 31, 2011, our average principal debt outstanding was $1.8 billion as compared to $1.5 billion for the comparable period in 2010, and the weighted average stated interest rate on our debt was 5.1% as compared to 3.9% for the comparable period in 2010. Our weighted average stated interest rate of our debt for the year ended December 31, 2011 increased from 2010 due to having higher amounts of unsecured indebtedness, with

68


longer durations to maturity and higher stated interest rates, outstanding during the comparable period in 2011. Amortization of debt issuance costs for the year ended December 31, 2011 increased from the comparable period in 2010 primarily due to the debt issuance costs associated with convertible notes that we issued in early 2011.

        The increase in base management fees and incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income for the year ended December 31, 2012 from the comparable period in 2011 and for the year ended December 31, 2011 from the comparable period in 2010 were both primarily due to the increase in the size of the portfolio and in the case of incentive fees, the related increase in pre-incentive fee net investment income.

        For the year ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 the capital gains incentive fee expense accrual calculated in accordance with GAAP was $31.9 million, $33.3 million and $15.6 million, respectively. As a result of the Capital Gains Amendment to our investment advisory and management agreement during 2011 we accrued $26.0 million of capital gains incentive fees in accordance with GAAP for the year ended December 31, 2011 as a result of the application of the Capital Gains Amendment with respect to the assets purchased in the Allied Acquisition. The capital gains incentive fee accrued under GAAP includes an accrual related to unrealized capital appreciation, whereas the capital gains incentive fee actually payable under our investment advisory and management agreement does not. There can be no assurance that such unrealized capital appreciation will be realized in the future. The accrual for any capital gains incentive fee under GAAP in a given period may result in an additional expense if such cumulative amount is greater than in the prior period or a reduction of previously recorded expense if such cumulative amount is less than in the prior period. If such cumulative amount is negative, then there is no accrual. As of December 31, 2012, the total capital gains incentive fee accrual calculated in accordance with GAAP was $80.8 million (included in management and incentive fees payable in the consolidated balance sheet). However, the Capital Gains Fee actually payable under our investment advisory and management agreement for the year ended December 31, 2012 was $11.5 million. For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, there was no Capital Gains Fee payable under our investment advisory and management agreement.

        See Note 3 to the Company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 for more information on the incentive and base management fees.

        Professional fees include legal, accounting, valuation and other professional fees incurred related to the management of the Company. The decrease in professional fees for the year ended December 31, 2012 from the comparable period in 2011 as well as the decrease from the year ended December 31, 2011 from the comparable period in 2010 primarily resulted from declines in professional fees related to the Allied Acquisition following its completion in 2010 and having substantially completed the integration of Allied Capital by early 2011. Administrative fees represent fees paid to Ares Operations for our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses incurred by Ares Operations in performing its obligations under the administration agreement, including our allocable portion of the cost of certain of our executive officers and their respective staffs. Other general and administrative expenses include rent, insurance, depreciation, director's fees and other costs.

Income Tax Expense, Including Excise Tax

        The Company has elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code and operates in a manner so as to qualify for the tax treatment applicable to RICs. To qualify as a RIC, the Company must, among other things, timely distribute to its stockholders generally at least 90% of its investment company taxable income, as defined by the Code, for each year. In order to maintain its RIC status, the Company, among other things, has made and intends to continue to make the requisite distributions to its stockholders which will generally relieve the Company from U.S. federal income taxes.

69


        Depending on the level of taxable income earned in a tax year, we may choose to carry forward taxable income in excess of current year dividend distributions from such current year taxable income into the next tax year and pay a 4% excise tax on such income, as required. To the extent that the Company determines that its estimated current year annual taxable income will be in excess of estimated current year dividend distributions from such income, the Company accrues excise tax on estimated excess taxable income as such taxable income is earned. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, a net expense of $7.9 million, $6.6 million and $2.2 million was recorded for U.S. federal excise tax, respectively.

        Certain of our consolidated subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal and state income taxes. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we recorded a tax expense of approximately $3.2 million, $0.9 million and $3.2 million, respectively, for these subsidiaries.

Net Realized Gains/Losses

        During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company had $2.5 billion of sales, repayments or exits of investments resulting in $46.7 million of net realized gains. These sales, repayments or exits included $256.9 million of investments sold to IHAM and certain vehicles managed by IHAM. A net realized gain of $2.3 million was recorded on these transactions. See Note 14 to the Company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 for more detail on IHAM and its managed vehicles. Net realized gains of $46.7 million on investments were comprised of $172.0 million of gross realized gains and $125.3 million of gross realized losses. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2012, in connection with the repayment in full of the $60 million aggregate principal amount of the Company's asset-backed notes (the "CLO Notes") issued under its 2006 debt securitization (the "Debt Securitization") ahead of their scheduled maturities, $2.7 million of unamortized debt issuance costs were expensed and recorded as a realized loss on the extinguishment of debt.

        The realized gains and losses on investments during the year ended December 31, 2012 consisted of the following:

(in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Net Realized
Gains (Losses)
 

Reed Group, Ltd. 

  $ 41.5  

Stag-Parkway, Inc. 

    30.0  

R3 Education, Inc. and EIC Acquisitions Corp. 

    18.3  

Savers, Inc. and SAI Acquisition Corporation

    15.2  

BenefitMall Holdings Inc. 

    12.5  

Things Remembered Inc. and TRM Holdings Corporation

    9.6  

Sunquest Information Systems, Inc. 

    9.1  

Norwesco

    5.7  

OTG Management, Inc. 

    4.0  

Crescent Hotels & Resorts, LLC and affiliates

    (5.5 )

LVCG Holdings LLC

    (6.6 )

Direct Buy Holdings, Inc. and Direct Buy Investors, LP

    (8.3 )

Aquila Binks Forest Development, LLC

    (9.5 )

Making Memories Wholesale, Inc. 

    (12.3 )

Firstlight Financial Corporation

    (26.0 )

Prommis Solutions, LLC

    (46.8 )

Other, net

    15.8  
       

Total (net)

  $ 46.7  
       

70


        During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company had $2.5 billion of sales, repayments or exits of investments resulting in $96.6 million of net realized gains. These sales, repayments or exits included $261.3 million of investments sold to IHAM or certain vehicles managed by IHAM. A net realized gain of $0.1 million was recorded on these transactions. Net realized gains of $96.6 million on investments were comprised of $249.1 million of gross realized gains and $152.5 million of gross realized losses. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2011, in connection with the redemptions of all of the Company's outstanding 6.000% notes due on April 1, 2012 (the "2012 Notes") and all the Company's outstanding 6.625% notes due on July 15, 2011 (the "2011 Notes"), the Company recognized a realized loss on the extinguishment of debt of $19.3 million.

        The realized gains and losses on investments during the year ended December 31, 2011 consisted of the following:

(in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Net Realized
Gains (Losses)
 

Reflexite Corporation

  $ 40.9  

DSI Renal, Inc. 

    27.5  

Callidus Debt Partners CLO Fund VI, Ltd. 

    23.9  

Industrial Container Services, LLC

    19.9  

Dryden XVIII Leveraged Loan 2007 Limited

    19.3  

Penn Detroit Diesel Allison, LLC

    18.4  

Callidus MAPS CLO Fund I LLC

    15.0  

Callidus Debt Partners CLO Fund VII, Ltd. 

    10.8  

Callidus MAPS CLO Fund II, Ltd. 

    8.2  

Callidus Debt Partners CLO Fund IV, Ltd. 

    8.0  

Callidus Debt Partners CLO Fund V, Ltd. 

    5.7  

Border Foods, Inc. 

    5.2  

Driven Brands, Inc. 

    4.5  

Callidus Debt Partners CLO Fund III, Ltd. 

    4.4  

Sigma International Group, Inc. 

    (4.3 )

AWTP, LLC

    (7.6 )

Universal Trailer Corporation

    (7.9 )

HB&G Building Products, Inc. 

    (9.1 )

Summit Business Media, LLC

    (10.1 )

Wastequip, Inc. 

    (10.2 )

Coverall North America, Inc. 

    (12.3 )

Primis Marketing Group, Inc. 

    (14.1 )

Cook Inlet Alternative Risk, LLC

    (15.7 )

Direct Buy Holdings, Inc. 

    (17.7 )

MPBP Holdings, Inc. 

    (27.7 )

Other, net

    21.6  
       

Total (net)

  $ 96.6  
       

        During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company had $1.6 billion of sales, repayments or exits of investments resulting in $45.5 million of net realized gains. These sales, repayments or exits included $113.1 million of investments sold to IHAM or certain vehicles managed by IHAM. A net realized loss of $1.3 million was recorded on these transactions. Net realized gains of $45.5 million on investments were comprised of $64.6 million of gross realized gains and $19.1 million of gross realized losses. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company purchased $19.4 million aggregate principal amount of the 2011 Notes and $34.4 million aggregate principal amount of the 2012

71


Notes. As a result of these transactions, the Company recognized a realized loss on the extinguishment of debt of $2.0 million.

        The realized gains and losses on investments during the year ended December 31, 2010 consisted of the following:

(in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Net Realized
Gains (Losses)
 

Air Medical Group Holdings, LLC

  $ 14.9  

Bumble Bee Foods, LLC

    6.1  

Growing Family, Inc. 

    (7.7 )

Other, net

    32.2  
       

Total (net)

  $ 45.5  
       

Net Unrealized Gains/Losses

        We value our portfolio investments quarterly and the changes in value are recorded as unrealized gains or losses. Net unrealized gains and losses for the Company's portfolio for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, were comprised of the following:

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011   2010  

Unrealized appreciation

  $ 151.0   $ 144.1   $ 317.5  

Unrealized depreciation

    (126.7 )   (205.1 )   (85.3 )

Net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation reversed related to net realized gains or losses(1)

    91.0     20.8     (1.5 )
               

Total net unrealized gains (losses) from investments

  $ 115.3   $ (40.2 ) $ 230.7  
               

(1)
The net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation reversed related to net realized gains or losses represents the unrealized appreciation or depreciation recorded on the related asset at the end of the prior period.

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        The changes in unrealized appreciation and depreciation during the year ended December 31, 2012 consisted of the following:

(in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P. 

  $ 41.6  

ADF Restaurant Group, LLC

    12.2  

R3 Education, Inc. 

    6.9  

Performant Financial Corporation

    6.5  

Tradesmen International, Inc. 

    6.5  

AWTP, LLC

    6.2  

Financial Pacific Company

    6.0  

ELC Acquisition Corp. 

    5.1  

The Dwyer Group

    5.0  

Campus Management Corp. 

    (4.5 )

Community Education Centers, Inc. 

    (4.6 )

Matrixx Initiatives, Inc. 

    (4.8 )

HCP Acquisition Holdings, LLC

    (6.2 )

UL Holding Co., LLC

    (7.0 )

RE Community Holdings II, Inc. 

    (7.3 )

American Broadband Communications, LLC

    (8.5 )

Orion Foods, LLC

    (10.4 )

eInstruction Corporation

    (16.7 )

MVL Group, Inc

    (27.9 )

Other, net

    26.2  
       

Total (net)

  $ 24.3  
       

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        The changes in unrealized appreciation and depreciation during the year ended December 31, 2011 consisted of the following:

(in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P. 

  $ 48.9  

Firstlight Financial Corporation

    15.4  

BenefitMall Holdings, Inc. 

    9.5  

Things Remembered Inc. 

    5.5  

American Broadband Holding Company

    5.3  

Insight Pharmaceuticals Corporation

    4.9  

Savers, Inc. 

    4.9  

The Step2 Company, LLC

    (4.5 )

Direct Buy Holdings, Inc. 

    (5.6 )

VSS-Tranzact Holdings, LLC

    (6.3 )

Orion Foods, LLC

    (6.8 )

Making Memories Wholesale, Inc. 

    (7.0 )

Reed Group, Ltd. 

    (8.3 )

CitiPostal Inc. 

    (11.0 )

Pillar Processing, LLC

    (12.6 )

Ciena Capital LLC

    (27.0 )

eInstruction Corporation

    (27.9 )

Prommis Solutions, LLC

    (43.2 )

Other, net

    4.8  
       

Total (net)

  $ (61.0 )
       

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        The changes in unrealized appreciation and depreciation during the year ended December 31, 2010 consisted of the following:

(in millions)
Portfolio Company
  Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

DSI Renal Inc. 

  $ 24.7  

Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC

    24.3  

Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P. 

    21.6  

R3 Education, Inc. 

    16.3  

Stag-Parkway, Inc. 

    15.5  

Callidus Debt Partners CDO Fund VI, Ltd. 

    12.7  

Hot Stuff Foods, LLC

    11.3  

Things Remembered, Inc. 

    11.1  

Dryden XVIII Leveraged Loan 2007 Limited

    8.2  

Vantage Oncology, Inc. 

    7.8  

Tradesmen International, Inc. 

    7.7  

Industrial Container Services, LLC

    7.0  

Callidus Debt Partners CDO Fund VII, Ltd. 

    7.0  

S.B. Restaurant Company

    6.8  

Callidus MAPS CLO Fund I, Ltd. 

    6.2  

Reflexite Corporation

    5.9  

Callidus MAPS CLO Fund II, Ltd. 

    5.7  

Component Hardware Group, Inc. 

    5.5  

Woodstream Corporation

    5.2  

American Broadband Holding Company

    4.8  

Callidus Debt Partners CDO Fund IV, Ltd. 

    4.7  

Direct Buy Holdings, Inc. 

    4.2  

The Step2Company, LLC

    4.0  

MPBP Holdings, Inc. 

    (4.7 )

Reed Group, Ltd. 

    (5.6 )

Ciena Capital LLC

    (6.1 )

Aquila Binks Forest Development, LLC

    (6.5 )

ADF Restaurant Group, LLC

    (6.7 )

Coverall North America, Inc. 

    (7.6 )

Other, net

    41.2  
       

Total (net)

  $ 232.2  
       

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

        The Company's liquidity and capital resources are generated primarily from the net proceeds of public offerings of equity and debt securities, advances from the Facilities, net proceeds from the issuance of other securities, including convertible notes, as well as cash flows from operations.

        As of December 31, 2012, the Company had $269.0 million in cash and cash equivalents and $2.2 billion in total debt outstanding at carrying value ($2.3 billion at principal amount). Subject to leverage and borrowing base restrictions, the Company had approximately $1.6 billion available for additional borrowings under the Facilities as of December 31, 2012.

        We may from time to time seek to retire or repurchase our common stock through cash purchases, as well as retire, cancel or purchase our outstanding debt through cash purchases and/or exchanges, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. Such repurchases or exchanges,

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if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual and regulatory restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material. In addition, we may from time to time enter into additional debt facilities, increase the size of existing facilities or issue additional debt securities, including unsecured debt and/or debt securities convertible into common stock. Any such incurrence or issuance would be subject to prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual and regulatory restrictions and other factors. In accordance with the Investment Company Act, with certain limited exceptions, we are only allowed to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage, calculated pursuant to the Investment Company Act, is at least 200% after such borrowing.

Equity Issuances

        The following table summarizes the total shares issued and proceeds we received in underwritten public offerings of our common stock net of underwriting discounts and offering costs for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2010. There were no sales of our equity securities during the year ended December 31, 2011.

(in millions, except per share data)
  Shares
issued
  Offering
price per
share
  Proceeds net of
underwriting discounts
and offering costs
 

2012

                   

August 2012 public offering

    25.9   $ 16.55 (1) $ 427.6  

January 2012 public offering

    16.4   $ 15.41 (2) $ 252.4  
                 

Total for the year ended December 31, 2012

    42.3         $ 680.0  

2010

                   

November 2010 public offering

    11.5   $ 16.50   $ 180.6  

February 2010 public offering

    23.0   $ 12.75   $ 277.2  
                 

Total for the year ended December 31, 2010

    34.5         $ 457.8  

(1)
The shares were sold to the underwriters for a price of $16.55 per share, which the underwriters were then permitted to sell at variable prices to the public.

(2)
The shares were sold to the underwriters for a price of $15.41 per share, which the underwriters were then permitted to sell at variable prices to the public.

        The Company used the net proceeds from these public equity offerings in 2012 and 2010 to repay outstanding debt and for general corporate purposes, which included funding investments in accordance with our investment objective.

        As of December 31, 2012, total equity market capitalization for the Company was $4.4 billion compared to $3.2 billion as of December 31, 2011.

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        Our debt obligations consisted of the following as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
(in millions)
  Total
Aggregate
Principal
Amount
Committed/
Outstanding(1)
  Principal
Amount
Outstanding
  Carrying
Value
  Total
Aggregate
Principal
Amount
Committed/
Outstanding(1)
  Principal
Amount
Outstanding
  Carrying
Value
 

Revolving Credit Facility

  $ 900.0 (2) $   $   $ 810.0   $ 395.0   $ 395.0  

Revolving Funding Facility

    620.0 (3)   300.0     300.0     500.0     463.0     463.0  

SMBC Funding Facility

    400.0                      

Debt Securitization

                77.5     77.5     77.5  

February 2016 Convertible Notes

    575.0     575.0     548.5 (4)   575.0     575.0     541.2 (4)

June 2016 Convertible Notes

    230.0     230.0     218.8 (4)   230.0     230.0     215.9 (4)

2017 Convertible Notes

    162.5     162.5     158.3 (4)            

2018 Convertible Notes

    270.0     270.0     262.8 (4)            

February 2022 Notes

    143.8     143.8     143.8              

October 2022 Notes

    182.5     182.5     182.5              

2040 Notes

    200.0     200.0     200.0     200.0     200.0     200.0  

2047 Notes

    230.0     230.0     181.2 (5)   230.0     230.0     181.0 (5)
                           

  $ 3,913.8   $ 2,293.8   $ 2,195.9   $ 2,622.5   $ 2,170.5   $ 2,073.6  
                           

(1)
Subject to borrowing base and leverage restrictions. Represents the total aggregate amount committed or outstanding, as applicable, under such instrument.

(2)
Provides for a feature that allows the Company, under certain circumstances, to increase the size of the Revolving Credit Facility to a maximum of $1,350.0 million as of December 31, 2012.

(3)
Provides for a feature that allows the Company and Ares Capital CP, under certain circumstances, to increase the size of the Revolving Funding Facility to a maximum of $865.0 million as of December 31, 2012.

(4)
Represents the aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Convertible Unsecured Notes less the unaccreted discount initially recorded upon issuance of the Convertible Unsecured Notes. The total unaccreted discount for the February 2016 Convertible Notes, the June 2016 Convertible Notes, the 2017 Convertible Notes and the 2018 Convertible Notes was $26.5 million, $11.2 million, $4.2 million and $7.2 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2012. The total unaccreted discount for the February 2016 Convertible Notes and the June 2016 Convertible Notes was $33.8 million and $14.1 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2011.

(5)
Represents the aggregate principal amount outstanding less the unaccreted purchased discount. The total unaccreted purchased discount on the 2047 Notes was $48.8 million and $49.0 million as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

        The weighted average stated interest rate and weighted average maturity, both on aggregate principal amount, of all our debt outstanding as of December 31, 2012 were 5.5% and 9.8 years, respectively, and as of December 31, 2011 were 4.8% and 9.3 years, respectively.

        The ratio of total principal amount of debt outstanding to stockholders' equity as of December 31, 2012 was 0.58:1.00 compared to 0.69:1.00 as of December 31, 2011. The ratio of total carrying value of debt outstanding to stockholders' equity as of December 31, 2012 was 0.55:1.00 compared to 0.66:1.00 as of December 31, 2011.

        In accordance with the Investment Company Act, with certain limited exceptions, we are only allowed to borrow amounts such that our asset coverage, as calculated in accordance with the

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Investment Company Act, is at least 200% after such borrowing. As of December 31, 2012, our asset coverage was 282%.

        In December 2005, we entered into a senior secured revolving credit facility (as amended and restated, the "Revolving Credit Facility"), which as of December 31, 2012, allowed us to borrow up to $900 million at any one time outstanding. In May 2012, we amended and restated the Revolving Credit Facility to, among other things, increase the size of the facility from $810 million to $900 million, extend the expiration of the revolving period from January 22, 2013 to May 4, 2015 and extend the stated maturity date from January 22, 2013 to May 4, 2016. The Revolving Credit Facility also provides for a feature that allows us, under certain circumstances, to increase the size of the facility to a maximum of $1.35 billion. As of December 31, 2012, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Credit Facility is based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.25% or a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Credit Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.25%. Additionally, we are required to pay a commitment fee of 0.375% per annum on any unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2012, there were no amounts outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility and we were in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the Revolving Credit Facility.

        In October 2004, we established through our consolidated subsidiary, Ares Capital CP Funding LLC ("Ares Capital CP"), a revolving funding facility (as amended, the "Revolving Funding Facility"), which as of December 31, 2012 allowed Ares Capital CP to borrow up to $620 million at any one time outstanding. The Revolving Funding Facility is secured by all of the assets held by, and its membership interest in, Ares Capital CP. In June 2012, we and Ares Capital CP amended the Revolving Funding Facility to, among other things, (i) increase the size of the Revolving Funding Facility from $500 million to $580 million, (ii) add a feature that allows, under certain circumstances, for an increase in the size of the facility to a maximum of $865 million, (iii) extend the reinvestment period from January 18, 2015 to April 18, 2015, and (iv) extend the stated maturity date from January 18, 2017 to April 18, 2017. In July 2012, the Company and Ares Capital CP received an increase in the commitments under the Revolving Funding Facility of $40 million, bringing the total commitments to $620 million. As of December 31, 2012, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Funding Facility was one month LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.50% or a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Funding Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.50%. See "Recent Developments" as well as Note 19 to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 for more information on a recent amendment to the Revolving Funding Facility. Additionally, we are required to pay a commitment fee of between 0.50% and 1.75% depending on the size of the unused portion of the Revolving Funding Facility. As of December 31, 2012, the principal amount outstanding under the Revolving Funding Facility was $300.0 million and we and Ares Capital CP were in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the Revolving Funding Facility.

        In January 2012, we established through our consolidated subsidiary, Ares Capital JB Funding LLC, ("ACJB"), a revolving funding facility (as amended, the "SMBC Funding Facility"), which as of December 31, 2012 allowed ACJB to borrow up to $400 million at any one time outstanding. The SMBC Funding Facility is secured by all of the assets held by ACJB. In September 2012, the Company and ACJB amended the SMBC Funding Facility to, among other things, (i) increase the size of the SMBC Funding Facility from $200 million to $400 million, (ii) extend the

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reinvestment period from January 20, 2015 to September 14, 2015 and (iii) extend the stated maturity date from January 20, 2020 to September 14, 2020. The reinvestment period and the stated maturity date are both subject to two one-year extensions by mutual agreement. As of December 31, 2012, the interest rate charged on the SMBC Funding Facility is based on one month LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.125% or a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the SMBC Funding Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.125%. As a result of the September 2012 amendment to the SMBC Funding Facility described above, ACJB is not required to pay a commitment fee until September 15, 2013, at which time ACJB is required to pay a commitment fee of 0.50% depending on the size of the unused portion of the SMBC Funding Facility. As of December 31, 2012, there was no amounts outstanding under the SMBC Funding Facility and we and ACJB were in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the SMBC Funding Facility.

        In July 2006, through ARCC Commercial Loan Trust 2006, a vehicle serviced by our consolidated subsidiary, ARCC CLO 2006 LLC ("ARCC CLO"), we completed the $400 million debt securitization (the "Debt Securitization") and issued approximately $314 million aggregate principal amount of asset backed notes to third parties (the "CLO Notes") that were secured by a pool of middle market loans that were purchased or originated by us. We initially retained approximately $86 million of aggregate principal amount of certain "BBB" and non-rated securities in the Debt Securitization and subsequently repurchased $35 million of the CLO Notes. In June 2012, we repaid in full the $60 million aggregate principal amount outstanding of the CLO Notes and terminated or discharged the agreements governing the Debt Securitization.

        In January 2011, we issued $575 million aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on February 1, 2016, unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms (the "February 2016 Convertible Notes"). In March 2011, we issued $230 million aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on June 1, 2016, unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms (the "June 2016 Convertible Notes"). In March 2012, we issued $162.5 million aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on March 15, 2017, unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms (the "2017 Convertible Notes"). In the fourth quarter of 2012, we issued $270.0 million aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on January 15, 2018, unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms (the "2018 Convertible Notes" and together with the February 2016 Convertible Notes, the June 2016 Convertible Notes and the 2017 Convertible Notes, the "Convertible Unsecured Notes"). We do not have the right to redeem the Convertible Unsecured Notes prior to maturity. The February 2016 Convertible Notes, the June 2016 Convertible Notes, the 2017 Convertible Notes and the 2018 Convertible Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.750%, 5.125%, 4.875% and 4.750%, respectively, per year, payable semi-annually.

        In certain circumstances, the Convertible Unsecured Notes will be convertible into cash, shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, at our election, at their respective conversion rates (listed below as of December 31, 2012) subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments and the requirements of their respective indenture (the "Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures"). Prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding their respective conversion date (listed below), holders may convert their Convertible Unsecured Notes only under certain circumstances set forth in the respective Convertible Unsecured Notes Indenture. On or after their respective conversion dates until the close of business on the scheduled trading day immediately preceding their respective maturity date, holders may convert their Convertible Unsecured Notes at any time. In addition, if we engage in certain corporate events as described in their respective Convertible

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Unsecured Notes Indenture, holders of the Convertible Unsecured Notes may require us to repurchase for cash all or part of the Convertible Unsecured Notes at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Convertible Unsecured Notes to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest through, but excluding, the required repurchase date.

        Certain key terms related to the convertible features for each of the Convertible Unsecured Notes are listed below.

 
  February 2016
Convertible Notes
  June 2016
Convertible Notes
  2017
Convertible Notes
  2018
Convertible Notes
 

Conversion premium

    17.5 %   17.5 %   17.5 %   17.5 %

Closing stock price at issuance

    $16.28     $16.20     $16.46     $16.91  

Closing stock price date

    January 19, 2011     March 22, 2011     March 8, 2012     October 3, 2012  

Conversion price as of December 31, 2012

    $18.89     $18.80     $19.21     $19.81  

Conversion rate as of December 31, 2012 (shares per one thousand dollar principal amount)

    52.9289     53.1903     52.0606     50.4731  

Conversion dates

    August 15, 2015     December 15, 2015     September 15, 2016     July 15, 2017  

        As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures.

        In February 2012, we issued $143.8 million in aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes, which bear interest at a rate of 7.00% per year and mature on February 15, 2022 (the "February 2022 Notes"). The February 2022 Notes require payment of interest quarterly, and all principal is due upon maturity. These notes are redeemable in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option on or after February 15, 2015, at a par redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest.

        In September 2012 and October 2012, we issued $182.5 million in aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes, which bear interest at a rate of 5.875% per year and mature on October 1, 2022 (the "October 2022 Notes"). The October 2022 Notes require payment of interest quarterly commencing on January 1, 2013, and all principal is due upon maturity. These notes are redeemable in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option on or after October 1, 2015, at a par redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued interest and unpaid interest.

        In October 2010, we issued $200 million in aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes which bear interest at a rate of 7.75% and mature on October 15, 2040 (the "2040 Notes"). The 2040 Notes require payment of interest quarterly, and all principal is due upon maturity. These notes are redeemable in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option on or after October 15, 2015, at a par redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest.

        As part of the Allied Acquisition, we assumed $230 million aggregate principal amount outstanding of senior unsecured notes which bear interest at a rate of 6.875% and mature on April 15, 2047 (the "2047 Notes" and together with the February 2022 Notes, the October 2022 Notes and the 2040 Notes,

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the "Unsecured Notes"). The 2047 Notes require payment of interest quarterly, and all principal is due upon maturity. These notes are redeemable in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option, at a par redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest and upon the occurrence of certain tax events as described in the indenture governing the 2047 Notes.

        As of December 31, 2012 we were in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the indentures governing the Unsecured Notes.

        The Convertible Unsecured Notes and the Unsecured Notes are our senior unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payment to our existing and future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Convertible Unsecured Notes and the Unsecured Notes; equal in right of payment to our existing and future unsecured indebtedness that is not expressly subordinated; effectively junior in right of payment to any of our secured indebtedness (including existing unsecured indebtedness that we later secure) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness; and structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by our subsidiaries, financing vehicles or similar facilities.

        See Note 5 to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 for more detail on the Company's debt obligations.

        A summary of the maturities of our principal amounts of debt and other contractual payment obligations as of December 31, 2012 are as follows:

 
  Payments Due by Period  
(in millions)
  Total   Less than 1 year   1-3 years   3-5 years   After
5 years
 

Revolving Credit Facility

  $   $   $   $   $  

Revolving Funding Facility

    300.0             300.0      

SMBC Funding Facility

                     

February 2016 Convertible Notes

    575.0             575.0      

June 2016 Convertible Notes

    230.0             230.0      

2017 Convertible Notes

    162.5             162.5      

2018 Convertible Notes

    270.0                 270.0  

February 2022 Notes

    143.8                 143.8  

October 2022 Notes

    182.5                 182.5  

2040 Notes

    200.0                 200.0  

2047 Notes

    230.0                 230.0  

Operating lease obligations

    73.0     7.1     11.8     10.9     43.2  
                       

  $ 2,366.8   $ 7.1   $ 11.8   $ 1,278.4   $ 1,069.5  
                       

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OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

        The Company has various commitments to fund investments in its portfolio, as described below.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had the following commitments to fund various revolving and delayed draw senior secured and subordinated loans, including commitments to fund which are at (or substantially at) the Company's discretion:

 
  As of December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011  

Total revolving and delayed draw commitments

  $ 466.6   $ 565.6  

Less: funded commitments

    (107.1 )   (125.0 )
           

Total unfunded commitments

    359.5     440.6  

Less: commitments substantially at discretion of the Company

    (6.0 )   (64.8 )

Less: unavailable commitments due to borrowing base or other covenant restrictions

    (0.6 )   (5.5 )
           

Total net adjusted unfunded revolving and delayed draw commitments

  $ 352.9   $ 370.3  
           

        Included within the total revolving and delayed draw commitments as of December 31, 2012 were commitments to issue up to $62.3 million in standby letters of credit through a financial intermediary on behalf of certain portfolio companies. Under these arrangements, if the standby letters of credit were to be issued, the Company would be required to make payments to third parties if the portfolio companies were to default on their related payment obligations. As of December 31, 2012, the Company had $41.4 million in standby letters of credit issued and outstanding under these commitments on behalf of the portfolio companies, of which no amounts were recorded as a liability on our balance sheet as such letters of credit are considered in the valuation of the investments in the portfolio company. Of these letters of credit $41.3 million expire in 2013 and $0.1 million expire in 2014.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company was party to subscription agreements to fund equity investments in private equity investment partnerships as follows:

 
  As of December 31,  
(in millions)
  2012   2011  

Total private equity commitments

  $ 131.0   $ 132.0  

Less: funded private equity commitments

    (66.5 )   (67.4 )
           

Total unfunded private equity commitments

    64.5     64.6  

Less: private equity commitments substantially at discretion of the Company

    (53.1 )   (53.5 )
           

Total net adjusted unfunded private equity commitments

  $ 11.4   $ 11.1  
           

        In addition, as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had outstanding guarantees or similar obligations on behalf of certain portfolio companies totaling $0.8 million.

        In the ordinary course of business, we may sell certain of our investments to third party purchasers. In particular, in connection with the sale of certain controlled portfolio company equity investments (as well as certain other sales), we have, and may continue to do so in the future, agreed to indemnify such purchasers for future liabilities arising from the investments and the related sale transaction. Such indemnification provisions may give rise to future liabilities.

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        As of December 31, 2012, one of the Company's portfolio companies, Ciena Capital LLC ("Ciena"), had one non-recourse securitization Small Business Administration ("SBA") loan warehouse facility, which has reached its maturity date but remains outstanding. Ciena is working with the providers of the SBA loan warehouse facility with regard to the repayment of that facility. Allied Capital had previously issued a performance guaranty (which Ares Capital succeeded to as a result of the Allied Acquisition) whereby Ares Capital must indemnify the warehouse providers for any damages, losses, liabilities and related costs and expenses that they may incur as a result of Ciena's failure to perform any of its obligations as loan originator, loan seller or loan servicer under the warehouse facility. As of December 31, 2012, there were no known issues or claims with respect to this performance guaranty.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

        On January 25, 2013, Ares Capital and Ares Capital CP, entered into an amendment to the Revolving Funding Facility. The amendment, among other things, modified the interest charged on the Revolving Funding Facility from the previous applicable spreads of 2.50% over LIBOR and 1.50% over "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Funding Facility) to applicable spreads ranging from 2.25% to 2.50% over LIBOR and ranging from 1.25% to 1.50% over "base rate," in each case, determined monthly based on the composition of the borrowing base relative to outstanding borrowings under the facility. After giving effect to the amendment and the relevant borrowing base and amounts outstanding thereunder, the interest charged on the Revolving Funding Facility as of January 25, 2013 was based on a spread over one-month LIBOR of 2.25% or a spread over "base rate" of 1.25%. As of such date, one-month LIBOR was 0.2037% and the "base rate" was 3.25%.

        From January 1, 2013 through February 22, 2013, we made new investment commitments of $165 million, of which $162 million were funded. Of these new commitments, 60% were in second lien senior secured loans, 30% were in first lien senior secured loans, 9% were investments in subordinated certificates of the SSLP, the proceeds of which were applied to co-investments with GE to fund first lien senior secured loans through the SSLP, and 1% were in preferred equity securities. Of the $165 million of new investment commitments, 92% were floating rate and 8% were fixed rate. The weighted average yield of debt and other income producing securities funded during the period at amortized cost was 9.5%. We may seek to syndicate a portion of these new investment commitments, although there can be no assurance that we will be able to do so.

        From January 1, 2013 through February 22, 2013, we exited $208 million of investment commitments. Of these investment commitments, 47% were first lien senior secured loans, 45% were second lien senior secured loans, 7% were investments in subordinated certificates of the SSLP and 1% were other equity securities. Of the $208 million of exited investment commitments, 97% were floating rate, 2% were fixed rate and 1% were non-interest bearing. The weighted average yield of debt and other income producing securities exited or repaid during the period at amortized cost was 9.8%. On the $208 million of investment commitments exited from January 1, 2013 through February 22, 2013, we recognized total net realized gains of approximately $10 million.

        In addition, as of February 22, 2013, we had an investment backlog and pipeline of approximately $290 million and $155 million, respectively. Investment backlog includes transactions approved by our investment adviser's investment committee and/or for which a formal mandate, letter of intent or a signed commitment have been issued, and therefore we believe are likely to close. Investment pipeline includes transactions where due diligence and analysis are in process, but no formal mandate, letter of intent or signed commitment have been issued. The consummation of any of the investments in this backlog and pipeline depends upon, among other things, one or more of the following: satisfactory completion of our due diligence investigation of the prospective portfolio company, our acceptance of the terms and structure of such investment and the execution and delivery of satisfactory transaction

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documentation. In addition, we may syndicate a portion of these investments. We cannot assure you that we will make any of these investments or that we will syndicate any portion of these investments.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

        The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in conformity with GAAP, and include the accounts of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries. The consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments and reclassifications that, in the opinion of management, are necessary for the fair presentation of the results of the operations and financial condition as of and for the periods presented. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

        Cash and cash equivalents include funds from time to time deposited with financial institutions and short-term, liquid investments in a money market fund. Cash and cash equivalents are carried at cost which approximates fair value.

Concentration of Credit Risk

        The Company places its cash and cash equivalents with financial institutions and, at times, cash held in money market accounts may exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limit.

Investments

        Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Realized gains or losses are measured by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the amortized cost basis of the investment without regard to unrealized gains or losses previously recognized, and include investments charged off during the period, net of recoveries. Unrealized gains or losses primarily reflect the change in investment values, including the reversal of previously recorded unrealized gains or losses when gains or losses are realized.

        Investments for which market quotations are readily available are typically valued at such market quotations. In order to validate market quotations, we look at a number of factors to determine if the quotations are representative of fair value, including the source and nature of the quotations. Debt and equity securities that are not publicly traded or whose market prices are not readily available (i.e., substantially all of our investments) are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by our board of directors, based on, among other things, the input of our investment adviser, audit committee and independent third-party valuation firms that have been engaged at the direction of our board of directors to assist in the valuation of each portfolio investment without a readily available market quotation at least once during a trailing 12 month period (with certain de minimis exceptions) and under a valuation policy and a consistently applied valuation process. The valuation process is conducted at the end of each fiscal quarter, and a minimum of 50% of our portfolio at fair value is subject to review by an independent valuation firm each quarter. In addition, our independent accountants review our valuation process as part of their overall integrated audit.

        As part of the valuation process, we may take into account the following types of factors, if relevant, in determining the fair value of our investments: the enterprise value of a portfolio company (the entire value of the portfolio company to a market participant, including the sum of the values of debt and equity securities used to capitalize the enterprise at a point in time), the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company's ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, a comparison of the

84


portfolio company's securities to any similar publicly traded securities, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments would trade in their principal markets and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we consider the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate our valuation.

        Because there is not a readily available market value for most of the investments in our portfolio, we value substantially all of our portfolio investments at fair value as determined in good faith by our board of directors, as described herein. Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of our investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of our investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values that we may ultimately realize. Further, such investments are generally subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise are less liquid than publicly traded securities. If we were required to liquidate a portfolio investment in a forced or liquidation sale, we could realize significantly less than the value at which we have recorded it.

        In addition, changes in the market environment and other events that may occur over the life of the investments may cause the gains or losses ultimately realized on these investments to be different than the unrealized gains or losses reflected in the valuations currently assigned.

        Our board of directors undertakes a multi-step valuation process each quarter, as described below:

Interest and Dividend Income Recognition

        Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis and includes the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Discounts from and premiums to par value on securities purchased are accreted/amortized into interest income over the life of the respective security using the effective yield method. The amortized cost of investments represents the original cost adjusted for the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, if any.

        Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when principal or interest payments are past due 30 days or more or when there is reasonable doubt that principal or interest will be collected in full. Accrued and unpaid interest is generally reversed when a loan is placed on non-accrual status. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans may be recognized as income or applied to principal depending upon management's judgment regarding collectability. Non-accrual loans are restored to accrual status when past due principal and interest is paid and, in management's judgment, are likely to remain current. The Company may make exceptions to this if the loan has sufficient collateral value and is in the process of collection.

85


        Dividend income on preferred equity securities is recorded as dividend income on an accrual basis to the extent that such amounts are payable by the portfolio company and are expected to be collected. Dividend income on common equity securities is recorded on the record date for private portfolio companies or on the ex-dividend date for publicly traded portfolio companies.

Payment-in-Kind Interest

        The Company has loans in its portfolio that contain PIK provisions. The PIK interest, computed at the contractual rate specified in each loan agreement, is added to the principal balance of the loan and recorded as interest income. To maintain the Company's status as a RIC, this non-cash source of income must be paid out to stockholders in the form of dividends even though the Company has not yet collected the cash.

Capital Structuring Service Fees and Other Income

        The Company's investment adviser seeks to provide assistance to our portfolio companies in connection with the Company's investments and in return the Company may receive fees for capital structuring services. These fees are generally only available to the Company as a result of the Company's underlying investments, are normally paid at the closing of the investments, are generally non-recurring and are recognized as revenue when earned upon closing of the investment. The services that the Company's investment adviser provides vary by investment, but generally include reviewing existing credit facilities, arranging bank financing, arranging equity financing, structuring financing from multiple lenders, structuring financing from multiple equity investors, restructuring existing loans, raising equity and debt capital, and providing general financial advice, which concludes upon closing of the investment. Any services of the above nature subsequent to the closing would generally generate a separate fee payable to the Company. In certain instances where the Company is invited to participate as a co-lender in a transaction and does not provide significant services in connection with the investment, a portion of loan fees paid to the Company in such situations will be deferred and amortized over the estimated life of the loan. The Company's investment adviser may also take a seat on the board of directors of a portfolio company, or observe the meetings of the board of directors without taking a formal seat.

        Other income includes fees for asset management, management and consulting services, loan guarantees, commitments, amendments and other services rendered by the Company to portfolio companies. Such fees are recognized as income when earned or the services are rendered.

Foreign Currency Translation

        The Company's books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Any foreign currency amounts are translated into U.S. dollars on the following basis:

        Results of operations based on changes in foreign exchange rates are separately disclosed in the statement of operations. Foreign security and currency translations may involve certain considerations and risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. companies and U.S. government securities. These risks include, but are not limited to, currency fluctuations and revaluations and future adverse political, social and economic developments, which could cause investments in foreign markets to be less liquid and prices more volatile than those of comparable U.S. companies or U.S. government securities.

86


Equity Offering Expenses

        The Company's offering costs, excluding underwriters' fees, are charged against the proceeds from equity offerings when received.

Debt Issuance Costs

        Debt issuance costs are amortized over the life of the related debt instrument using the straight line method, which closely approximates the effective yield method.

U.S. Federal Income Taxes

        The Company has elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code and operates in a manner so as to qualify for the tax treatment applicable to RICs. To qualify as a RIC, the Company must, among other things, timely distribute to its stockholders at least 90% of its investment company taxable income, as defined by the Code, for each year. The Company, among other things, has made and intends to continue to make the requisite distributions to its stockholders, which will generally relieve the Company from U.S. federal income taxes.

        Depending on the level of taxable income earned in a tax year, we may choose to carry forward taxable income in excess of current year dividend distributions from such income into the next tax year and pay a 4% excise tax on such income, as required. To the extent that the Company determines that its estimated current year annual taxable income will be in excess of estimated current year dividend distributions, the Company accrues excise tax, if any, on estimated excess taxable income as such taxable income is earned.

        Certain of our consolidated subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal and state income taxes.

Dividends to Common Stockholders

        Dividends and distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The amount to be paid out as a dividend is determined by our board of directors each quarter and is generally based upon the earnings estimated by management. Net realized capital gains, if any, are generally distributed, although we may decide to retain such capital gains for investment.

        We have adopted a dividend reinvestment plan that provides for reinvestment of any distributions we declare in cash on behalf of our stockholders, unless a stockholder elects to receive cash. As a result, if our board of directors authorizes, and we declare, a cash dividend, then our stockholders who have not "opted out" of our dividend reinvestment plan will have their cash dividends automatically reinvested in additional shares of our common stock, rather than receiving the cash dividend. We intend to use primarily newly issued shares to implement the dividend reinvestment plan (so long as we are trading at a premium to net asset value). If our shares are trading at a significant enough discount to net asset value and we are otherwise permitted under applicable law to purchase such shares, we intend to purchase shares in the open market in connection with our obligations under our dividend reinvestment plan. However, we reserve the right to issue new shares of our common stock in connection with our obligations under the dividend reinvestment plan even if our shares are trading below net asset value.

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements

        The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of actual and contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income or loss and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates include the valuation of investments.

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Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

        We are subject to financial market risks, including changes in interest rates and the valuations of our investment portfolio.

Interest Rate Risk

        Interest rate sensitivity refers to the change in our earnings that may result from changes in the level of interest rates. Because we fund a portion of our investments with borrowings, our net investment income is affected by the difference between the rate at which we invest and the rate at which we borrow. As a result, there can be no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income. See "Risk Factors—We are exposed to risks associated with changes in interest rates."

        As of December 31, 2012, approximately 13% of the investments at fair value in our portfolio bore interest at fixed rates, approximately 75% bore interest at variable rates, 11% were non-interest earning and 1% were on non-accrual status. Additionally, for the variable rate investments, 70% of these investments contained interest rate floors (representing 53% of total investments at fair value). The Facilities all bear interest at variable rates with no interest rate floors, while the Unsecured Notes and the Convertible Unsecured Notes bear interest at fixed rates.

        We regularly measure our exposure to interest rate risk. We assess interest rate risk and manage our interest rate exposure on an ongoing basis by comparing our interest rate sensitive assets to our interest rate sensitive liabilities. Based on that review, we determine whether or not any hedging transactions are necessary to mitigate exposure to changes in interest rates.

        While hedging activities may mitigate our exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates, certain hedging transactions that we may enter into in the future, such as interest rate swap agreements, may also limit our ability to participate in the benefits of lower interest rates with respect to our portfolio investments. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to effectively hedge our interest rate risk.

        Based on our December 31, 2012 balance sheet, the following table shows the annual impact on net income of base rate changes in interest rates (considering interest rate floors for variable rate instruments) assuming no changes in our investment and borrowing structure:

(in millions)
Basis Point Change
  Interest
Income
  Interest
Expense
  Net
Income
 

Up 300 basis points

  $ 62.8   $ 9.0   $ 53.8  

Up 200 basis points

  $ 22.1   $ 6.0   $ 16.1  

Up 100 basis points

  $ (14.8 ) $ 3.0   $ (17.8 )

Down 100 basis points

  $ 5.8   $ (0.6 ) $ 6.4  

Down 200 basis points

  $ 5.8   $ (0.6 ) $ 6.4  

Down 300 basis points

  $ 5.6   $ (0.6 ) $ 6.2  

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        Based on our December 31, 2011 balance sheet, the following table shows the annual impact on net income of base rate changes in interest rates (considering interest rate floors for variable rate instruments) assuming no changes in our investment and borrowing structure:

(in millions)
Basis Point Change
  Interest
Income
  Interest
Expense
  Net
Income
 

Up 300 basis points

  $ 65.7   $ 28.1   $ 37.6  

Up 200 basis points

  $ 32.5   $ 18.7   $ 13.8  

Up 100 basis points

  $ 0.5   $ 9.4   $ (8.9 )

Down 100 basis points

  $ 3.8   $ (3.1 ) $ 6.9  

Down 200 basis points

  $ 3.6   $ (3.1 ) $ 6.7  

Down 300 basis points

  $ 3.4   $ (3.1 ) $ 6.5  

Item 8.    Financial Statements And Supplementary Data

        See the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Item 9.    Changes In And Disagreements With Accountants On Accounting And Financial Disclosure

        None.

Item 9A.    Controls And Procedures

        (a)    Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.    The Company's management, with the participation of the Company's President and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon such evaluation, the Company's President and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective, as of December 31, 2012, to provide assurance that information that is required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported, within the time periods specified by the SEC's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its President and Chief Financial Officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

        (b)    Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.    The Company's management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act). Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the President and Chief Financial Officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company's internal controls over financial reporting based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on the Company's evaluation under the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework, management concluded that the Company's internal controls over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2012. The Company's internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, has been audited by our independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP, as stated in its report titled "Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" on page F-2.

        Because of its inherent limitations, internal controls over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

89


        (c)    Audit Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm.    The Company's independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting which is set forth under the heading "Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" on page F-2.

        (d)    Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.    There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during our most recently completed fiscal quarter, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B.    Other Information

        None.

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PART III

Item 10.    Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

        The information required by this item will be contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2013 Annual Stockholder Meeting, to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2012, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 11.    Executive Compensation

        The information required by this item will be contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2013 Annual Stockholder Meeting, to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2012, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

        The information required by this item will be contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2013 Annual Stockholder Meeting, to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2012, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

        The information required by this item will be contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2013 Annual Stockholder Meeting, to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2012, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 14.    Principal Accountant Fees and Services

        The information required by this item will be contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2013 Annual Stockholder Meeting, to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2012, and is incorporated herein by reference.

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PART IV

Item 15.    Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

        The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report:

Number   Description
  2.1   Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 26, 2009, among Ares Capital Corporation, ARCC Odyssey Corp. and Allied Capital Corporation(1)

 

3.1

 

Articles of Amendment and Restatement, as amended(2)

 

3.2

 

Second Amended and Restated Bylaws, as amended(3)

 

4.1

 

Form of Stock Certificate(4)

 

4.2

 

Indenture, dated June 16, 2006, between Allied Capital Corporation and The Bank of New York, as trustee(5)

 

4.3

 

Form of Note under the Indenture, dated June 16, 2006, between Allied Capital Corporation and The Bank of New York, as trustee(5)

 

4.4

 

Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 28, 2007, between Allied Capital Corporation and The Bank of New York, as trustee(6)

 

4.5

 

Form of 6.875% Notes due 2047(6)

 

4.6

 

Fourth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 1, 2010, among Ares Capital Corporation, Allied Capital Corporation and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee(7)

 

4.7

 

Indenture, dated as of October 21, 2010, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(8)

 

4.8

 

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of October 21, 2010, relating to the 7.75% Senior Notes due 2040, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(8)

 

4.9

 

Form of 7.75% Senior Notes due 2040(8)

 

4.10

 

Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 2, 2012, relating to the 7.00% Senior Notes due 2022, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(9)

 

4.11

 

Form of 7.00% Senior Notes due 2022(9)

 

4.12

 

Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 25, 2012, relating to the 5.875% Senior Notes due 2022, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(10)

 

4.13

 

Form of 5.875% Senior Notes due 2022(10)

 

4.14

 

Indenture, dated as of January 25, 2011, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(11)

92


Number   Description
  4.15   Form of 5.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2016(11)

 

4.16

 

Indenture, dated as of March 28, 2011, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(12)

 

4.17

 

Form of 5.125% Convertible Senior Notes due 2016(12)

 

4.18

 

Indenture, dated as of March 14, 2012, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(13)

 

4.19

 

Form of 4.875% Convertible Senior Notes due 2017(13)

 

4.20

 

Indenture, dated as of October 10, 2012, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee(14)

 

4.21

 

Form of 4.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2018(14)

 

10.1

 

Dividend Reinvestment Plan of Ares Capital Corporation(15)

 

10.2

 

Restated Investment Advisory and Management Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2011, between Ares Capital Corporation and Ares Capital Management LLC(16)

 

10.3

 

Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement, dated as of May 15, 2009, between Ares Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (17)

 

10.4

 

Amended and Restated Administration Agreement, dated as of June 1, 2007, between Ares Capital Corporation and Ares Operations LLC(18)

 

10.5

 

Trademark License Agreement between Ares Capital Corporation and Ares Management LLC(19)

 

10.6

 

Form of Indemnification Agreement between Ares Capital Corporation and directors and certain officers(4)

 

10.7

 

Form of Indemnification Agreement between Ares Capital Corporation and members of Ares Capital Management LLC investment committee(4)

 

10.8

 

Amended and Restated Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of January 22, 2010, among Ares Capital Corporation, as seller, and Ares Capital CP Funding Holdings LLC, as purchaser(20)

 

10.9

 

Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of June 7, 2012, among Ares Capital Corporation, as seller, and Ares Capital CP Funding Holdings LLC, as purchaser(21)

 

10.10

 

Second Tier Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of January 22, 2010, among Ares Capital CP Funding Holdings LLC, as seller, and Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as purchaser(20)

 

10.11

 

Amendment No. 1 to Second Tier Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of June 7, 2012, among Ares Capital CP Funding Holdings LLC, as seller, and Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as purchaser(21)

 

10.12

 

Amended and Restated Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated as of January 22, 2010, among Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer, Wachovia Bank, National Association, as note purchaser, U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and collateral custodian, and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent(20)

93


Number   Description
  10.13   Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated as of May 6, 2010, among Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as successor by merger to Wachovia Bank as note purchaser, U.S. Bank, National Association, as trustee and collateral custodian, and Wells Fargo Securities LLC, as agent(22)

 

10.14

 

Amendment No. 2 to the Amended and Restated Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated as of January 18, 2011, among Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as successor by merger to Wachovia Bank as note purchaser, U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and collateral custodian, and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent(23)

 

10.15

 

Amendment No. 3 to the Amended and Restated Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated as of October 13, 2011, among Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer and as transferor, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as successor by merger to Wachovia Bank, National Association), as note purchaser, U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, collateral custodian and bank and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent(24)

 

10.16

 

Amendment No. 4 to the Amended and Restated Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated as of January 18, 2012, among Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer and transferor, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as successor by merger to Wachovia Bank, National Association), as note purchaser, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral custodian, trustee and bank(25)

 

10.17

 

Amendment No. 5 to the Amended and Restated Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated as of June 7, 2012, among Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer and transferor, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (as successor by merger to Wachovia Bank, National Association), as note purchaser, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral custodian, trustee and bank(21)

 

10.18

 

Amendment No. 6 to Loan and Servicing Agreement, dated as of January 25, 2013, among Ares Capital CP Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer and transferor, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as swingline lender, and the other lenders party thereto(26)

 

10.19

 

Second Amended and Restated Senior Secured Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of May 4, 2012, between Ares Capital Corporation, the lenders party thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent(27)

 

10.20

 

First Amendment Agreement and Waiver, dated as of November 13, 2007, between Ares Capital Corporation, as borrower, Ares Capital FL Holdings LLC, ARCC CIC Flex Corp., ARCC Imperial Corporation and ARCC Imperial LLC, as subsidiary guarantors, and BMO Capital Markets Financing, Inc., Merrill Lynch Capital Corporation, SunTrust Bank, Commerzbank AG, New York and Grand Cayman Branches, UBS Loan Finance LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Wachovia Bank, National Association and KBC Bank N.V., as lenders(28)

 

10.21

 

Form of Indemnification Agreement between Allied Capital Corporation and its directors and certain officers (29)

 

10.22

 

Custodian Agreement, dated as of April 3, 2009, between Allied Capital Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association(30)

94


Number   Description
  10.23   Loan and Servicing Agreement, dated as of January 20, 2012, among Ares Capital JB Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer and transferor, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, as administrative agent, collateral agent and lender, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral custodian and bank(31)

 

10.24

 

Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of January 20, 2012, between Ares Capital JB Funding LLC, as purchaser, and Ares Capital Corporation, as seller(31)

 

10.25

 

Omnibus Amendment No. 1, dated as of September 14, 2012, among Ares Capital JB Funding LLC, as borrower, Ares Capital Corporation, as servicer and transferor, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, as administrative agent, lender and collateral agent, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral custodian and bank (amending the Loan and Servicing Agreement, dated as of January 20, 2012, and the Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of January 20, 2012)(32)

 

10.26

 

Form of Underwriting Agreement for Equity Securities(27)

 

10.27

 

Form of Underwriting Agreement for Debt Securities(27)

 

11.1

 

Statement of Computation of Per Share Earnings(33)

 

21.1

 

Subsidiaries of Ares Capital Corporation*

 

31.1

 

Certification by President pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*

 

31.2

 

Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*

 

32.1

 

Certification by President and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*

*
Filed herewith

(1)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on October 30, 2009.

(2)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q (File No. 814-00663) for the quarter ended September 30, 2012, filed on November 5, 2012.

(3)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Form 10-Q (File No. 814-00663) for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, filed on August 5, 2010.

(4)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits (d), (k)(4) and (k)(5), as applicable, to the Company's pre-effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on Form N-2 (File No. 333-114656), filed on September 28, 2004.

(5)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit d.2 to Allied Capital's Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on Form N-2/A (File No. 333-133755), filed on June 21, 2006.

(6)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits d.8 and d.9, as applicable, to Allied Capital's post-effective Amendment No. 3 to the Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on Form N-2/A (File No. 333-133755), filed on March 28, 2007.

(7)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on April 7, 2010.

95


(8)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on October 22, 2010.

(9)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1 and 4.2, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on February 2, 2012.

(10)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1 and 4.2, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on September 25, 2012.

(11)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1 and 4.2, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on January 28, 2011.

(12)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1 and 4.2, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on March 28, 2011.

(13)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1 and 4.2, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on March 14, 2012.

(14)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1 and 4.2, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on October 10, 2012.

(15)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on February 27, 2012.

(16)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on June 8, 2011.

(17)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (j) to the Company's pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on Form N-2 (File No. 333-158211), filed on May 28, 2009.

(18)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q (File No. 814-00663) for the quarter ended June 30, 2007, filed on August 9, 2007.

(19)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit (k)(3) to the Company's pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on Form N-2 (File No. 333-114656), filed on September 17, 2004.

(20)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 10.2 through 10.4, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on January 25, 2010.

(21)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 10.1 through 10.3, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-0663), filed on June 8, 2012.

(22)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Form 10-Q (File No. 814-00663) for the quarter ended March 30, 2010, filed on May 10, 2010.

(23)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on January 19, 2011.

(24)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on October 14, 2011.

(25)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on January 19, 2012.

(26)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on January 28, 2013.

96


(27)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits (h)(1), (h)(2) and (k)(13), as applicable, to the Company's Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on Form N-2 (File No. 333-181563), filed on May 21, 2012.

(28)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663) filed on November 14, 2007.

(29)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 to Allied Capital's Form 10-K (File No. 811-02708) for the year ended December 31, 2003, filed on March 12, 2004.

(30)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.44 to Allied Capital's Form 10-Q (File No. 814-00138) for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, filed on May 11, 2009.

(31)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 and 10.2, as applicable, to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663), filed on January 24, 2012.

(32)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 814-00663) filed on September 17, 2012.

(33)
Included in Note 10 to the Company's Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements filed herewith.

97


INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2012 and 2011

  F-4

Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

  F-5

Consolidated Schedules of Investments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011

  F-6

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

  F-45

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010

  F-46

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

  F-47

F-1



Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Ares Capital Corporation:

        We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Ares Capital Corporation (and subsidiaries) (the Company) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, including the consolidated schedules of investments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity, and cash flows, and the financial highlights (included in Note 15), for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

        We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, by correspondence with custodians, or by other appropriate auditing procedures. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Ares Capital Corporation (and subsidiaries) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

        We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Ares Capital Corporation's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated February 27, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of Ares Capital Corporation's internal control over financial reporting.

        As explained in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements, the accompanying consolidated financial statements include investments valued at $5.9 billion (149% of net assets), whose fair values have been estimated by the Board of Directors and management in the absence of readily determinable fair values. Such estimates are based on financial and other information provided by management of its portfolio companies, pertinent market and industry data, as well as input from independent valuation firms. These investments are valued in accordance with FASB ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, which requires the Company to assume that the portfolio investments are sold in a principal market to market participants. The Company has considered its principal market as the market in which the Company exits its portfolio investments with the greatest volume and level of activity. ASC 820 specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to these valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. $5.9 billion of investments at December 31, 2012 are valued based on unobservable inputs. Because such valuations, and particularly valuations of private investments and private companies, are inherently uncertain, they may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time. These determinations of fair value could differ materially from the values that would have been utilized had a ready market for these investments existed.

LOGO

Los Angeles, California
February 27, 2013

F-2


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Ares Capital Corporation:

        We have audited Ares Capital Corporation's (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Ares Capital Corporation's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

        We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

        Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

        In our opinion, Ares Capital Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

        We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of Ares Capital Corporation (and subsidiaries) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, including the consolidated schedules of investments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity, and cash flows, and the financial highlights (included in Note 15), for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012, and our report dated February 27, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

LOGO

Los Angeles, California
February 27, 2013

F-3



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

(in thousands, except per share data)

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  

ASSETS

             

Investments at fair value

             

Non-controlled/non-affiliate investments

  $ 3,822,715   $ 3,060,084  

Non-controlled affiliate company investments

    323,059     267,324  

Controlled affiliate company investments

    1,778,781     1,767,098  
           

Total investments at fair value (amortized cost of $5,823,451 and $5,108,663, respectively)

    5,924,555     5,094,506  

Cash and cash equivalents

    269,043     120,782  

Interest receivable

    108,998     99,078  

Receivable for open trades

    131     550  

Other assets

    98,497     72,521  
           

Total assets

  $ 6,401,224   $ 5,387,437  
           

LIABILITIES

             

Debt

  $ 2,195,872   $ 2,073,602  

Management and incentive fees payable

    131,585     92,496  

Accounts payable and other liabilities

    53,178     47,691  

Interest and facility fees payable

    30,603     26,383  

Payable for open trades

    1,640      
           

Total liabilities

    2,412,878     2,240,172  

Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)

             

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

             

Common stock, par value $0.001 per share, 500,000 and 400,000 common shares authorized; 248,653 and 205,130 common shares issued and outstanding, respectively

    249     205  

Capital in excess of par value

    4,117,517     3,390,354  

Accumulated overdistributed net investment income

    (27,910 )   (10,449 )

Accumulated net realized loss on investments, foreign currency transactions, extinguishment of debt and other assets

    (202,614 )   (218,688 )

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments

    101,104     (14,157 )
           

Total stockholders' equity

    3,988,346     3,147,265  
           

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

  $ 6,401,224   $ 5,387,437  
           

NET ASSETS PER SHARE

  $ 16.04   $ 15.34  
           

   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-4



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share data)

 
  For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
 
  2012   2011   2010  

INVESTMENT INCOME:

                   

From non-controlled/non-affiliate company investments:

                   

Interest income from investments

  $ 328,342   $ 267,159   $ 238,390  

Capital structuring service fees

    58,106     55,013     23,921  

Dividend income

    17,219     12,430     4,340  

Management and other fees

    1,342     1,315     4,797  

Other income

    13,170     6,137     5,310  
               

Total investment income from non-controlled/non-affiliate company investments

    418,179     342,054     276,758  

From non-controlled affiliate company investments:

                   

Interest income from investments

    21,767     30,560     51,386  

Capital structuring service fees

    3,682     730     813  

Dividend income

    1,324     4,294     2,125  

Management and other fees

    200     502     813  

Other income

    529     881     569  
               

Total investment income from non-controlled affiliate company investments

    27,502     36,967     55,706  

From controlled affiliate company investments:

                   

Interest income from investments

    221,363     175,534     103,853  

Capital structuring service fees

    40,348     41,592     29,946  

Dividend income

    21,195     21,643     7,903  

Management and other fees

    17,382     14,925     8,762  

Other income

    2,056     1,771     468  
               

Total investment income from controlled affiliate company investments

    302,344     255,465     150,932  
               

Total investment income

    748,025     634,486     483,396  
               

EXPENSES:

                   

Interest and credit facility fees

    142,976     122,512     79,347  

Incentive fees

    127,045     112,377     76,895  

Base management fees

    86,228     71,603     51,998  

Professional fees

    12,040     16,529     29,941  

Administrative fees

    9,322     9,563     10,979  

Other general and administrative

    10,381     12,025     13,028  
               

Total expenses

    387,992     344,609     262,188  
               

NET INVESTMENT INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

    360,033     289,877     221,208  

Income tax expense, including excise tax

    11,172     7,474     5,392  
               

NET INVESTMENT INCOME

    348,861     282,403     215,816  
               

REALIZED AND UNREALIZED NET GAINS (LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS:

                   

Net realized gains (losses):

                   

Non-controlled/non-affiliate company investments

    61,857     24,618     26,865  

Non-controlled affiliate company investments

    (36,766 )   13,647     11,965  

Controlled affiliate company investments

    21,643     58,295     6,563  

Foreign currency transactions

            85  
               

Net realized gains

    46,734     96,560     45,478  

Net unrealized gains (losses):

                   

Non-controlled/non-affiliate company investments

    54,522     (29,430 )   138,619  

Non-controlled affiliate company investments

    49,383     (19,395 )   40,595  

Controlled affiliate company investments

    11,356     8,633     51,681  

Foreign currency transactions

            (152 )
               

Net unrealized gains (losses)

    115,261     (40,192 )   230,743  
               

Net realized and unrealized gains on investments

    161,995     56,368     276,221  

GAIN ON THE ACQUISITION OF ALLIED CAPITAL CORPORATION

            195,876  

REALIZED LOSS ON EXTINGUISHMENT OF DEBT

    (2,678 )   (19,318 )   (1,961 )

REALIZED GAIN ON SALE OF OTHER ASSETS

            5,882  
               

NET INCREASE IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 508,178   $ 319,453   $ 691,834  
               

BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (see Note 10)

  $ 2.21   $ 1.56   $ 3.91  
               

WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING— BASIC AND DILUTED (see Note 10)

    230,151     204,860     176,732  
               

   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-5



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
As of December 31, 2012
(dollar amounts in thousands)

Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Investment Funds and Vehicles                                      
AGILE Fund I, LLC(9)   Investment partnership   Member interest (0.50% interest)         4/1/2010   $ 124   $ 29 (2)      
                                       
CIC Flex, LP(9)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership units (0.94 unit)         9/7/2007     2,302     3,570 (2)      
                                       
Covestia Capital Partners, LP(9)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (47.00% interest)         6/17/2008     1,059     1,135 (2)      
                                       
Dynamic India Fund IV, LLC(9)   Investment company   Member interest (5.44% interest)         4/1/2010     4,822     3,104        
                                       
HCI Equity, LLC(7)(8)(9)   Investment company   Member interest (100.00% interest)         4/1/2010     452     447        
                                       
Imperial Capital Private Opportunities, LP(9)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (80.00% interest)         5/10/2007     6,051     8,341 (2)      
                                       
Partnership Capital Growth Fund I, L.P.(9)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (25.00% interest)         6/16/2006     1,596     4,197 (2)      
                                       
Partnership Capital Growth Fund III, L.P.(9)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (2.50% interest)         10/5/2011     1,964     1,819 (2)      
                                       
Piper Jaffray Merchant Banking Fund I, L.P.(9)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (2.00% interest)         8/16/2012     286     259 (2)      
                                       
Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC(7)(10)   Co-investment vehicle   Subordinated certificates ($1,244,969 par due 12/2022)   8.31%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)(21)
    10/30/2009     1,237,887     1,263,644        
                                       
VSC Investors LLC(9)   Investment company   Membership interest (1.95% interest)         1/24/2008     387     854 (2)      
                                   
                        1,256,930     1,287,399     32.28 %
                                   
                                       
Healthcare—Services                                      
California Forensic Medical Group, Incorporated   Correctional facility healthcare operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($2,000 par due 11/2018)   10.25% (Base Rate + 7.00%/Q)     11/16/2012     2,000     2,000 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($54,182 par due 11/2018)   9.25%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    11/16/2012     54,182     54,182 (2)(20)      
                                   
                        56,182     56,182        
                                       
CCS Group Holdings, LLC   Correctional facility healthcare operator   Class A units (601,937 units)         8/19/2010     602     1,205 (2)      
                                       
CT Technologies Intermediate Holdings, Inc. and CT Technologies Holdings LLC(6)   Healthcare analysis services   Senior secured loan ($7,565 par due 3/2017)   7.75%
(Libor + 6.50%/Q)
    3/15/2011     7,565     7,263 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($7,172 par due 3/2017)   7.75%
(Libor + 6.50%/Q)
    3/15/2011     7,172     6,885 (3)(20)      
        Class A common stock (9,679 shares)         6/15/2007     4,000     4,772 (2)      
        Class C common stock (1,546 shares)         6/15/2007         1,316 (2)      
                                   
                        18,737     20,236        
                                     

F-6


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
INC Research, Inc.   Pharmaceutical and biotechnology consulting services   Common stock (1,410,000 shares)         9/27/2010     1,512     929 (2)      
                                       
Intermedix Corporation   Revenue cycle management provider to the emergency healthcare industry   Junior secured loan ($112,000 par due 6/2019)   10.25%
(Libor + 9.00%/Q)
    12/27/2012     112,000     112,000 (2)(20)      
                                       
Magnacare Holdings, Inc., Magnacare Administrative Services, LLC, and Magnacare, LLC   Healthcare professional provider   Senior secured loan ($15,298 par due 3/2018)   9.75%
(Libor + 8.75%/Q)
    9/15/2010     15,298     15,298 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($42,846 par due 3/2018)   9.75%
(Libor + 8.75%/Q)
    9/15/2010     42,846     42,846 (3)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($4,869 par due 3/2018)   9.75%
(Libor + 8.75%/Q)
    9/15/2010     4,869     4,869 (4)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($55,307 par due 3/2018)   9.75%
(Libor + 8.75%/Q)
    3/16/2012     55,307     55,307 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($15,579 par due 3/2018)   9.75%
(Libor + 8.75%/Q)
    3/16/2012     15,579     15,579 (3)(20)      
                                   
                        133,899     133,899        
                                       
MW Dental Holding Corp.   Dental services   Senior secured revolving loan ($3,000 par due 4/2017)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.00%/M)
    4/12/2011     3,000     3,000 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($55,034 par due 4/2017)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.00%/M)
    4/12/2011     55,034     55,034 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($49,253 par due 4/2017)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.00%/M)
    4/12/2011     49,253     49,253 (3)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,900 par due 4/2017)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.00%/M)
    4/12/2011     9,900     9,900 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        117,187     117,187        
                                       
Napa Management Services Corporation   Anesthesia management services provider   Senior secured revolving loan ($5,250 par due 4/2016)   7.50%
(Libor + 6.00%/M)
    4/15/2011     5,250     5,250 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,062 par due 4/2016)   7.50%
(Libor + 6.00%/Q)
    4/15/2011     8,984     9,062 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($28,125 par due 4/2016)   7.50%
(Libor + 6.00%/Q)
    4/15/2011     28,125     28,125 (3)(20)      
        Common units (5,000 units)         4/15/2011     5,000     6,169 (2)      
                                   
                        47,359     48,606        
                                       
Netsmart Technologies, Inc. and NS Holdings, Inc.   Healthcare technology provider   Senior secured loan ($40,095 par due 12/2017)   7.25%
(Libor + 6.00%/Q)
    12/18/2012     40,095     40,095 (2)(17)(20)      
        Common stock (2,500,000 shares)         6/21/2010     2,500     2,611 (2)      
                                   
                        42,595     42,706        
                                       
OnCURE Medical Corp.   Radiation oncology care provider   Common stock (857,143 shares)         8/18/2006     3,000     (2)      
                                       
Passport Health Communications, Inc., Passport Holding Corp. and Prism Holding Corp.   Healthcare technology provider   Series A preferred stock (1,594,457 shares)         7/30/2008     11,156     11,448 (2)      
        Common stock (16,106 shares)         7/30/2008     100     (2)      
                                   
                        11,256     11,448        
                                     

F-7


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
PG Mergersub, Inc. and PGA Holdings, Inc.   Provider of patient surveys, management reports and national databases for the integrated healthcare delivery system   Junior secured loan ($45,000 par due 10/2018)   8.25%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    4/19/2012     45,000     45,000 (2)(20)      
        Preferred stock (333 shares)         3/12/2008     125     14 (2)      
        Common stock (16,667 shares)         3/12/2008     167     697 (2)      
                                   
                        45,292     45,711        
                                       
RCHP, Inc.   Operator of general acute care hospitals   Junior secured loan ($15,000 par due 5/2019)   11.50%
(Libor + 10.00%/S)
    11/4/2011     15,000     15,000 (2)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 5/2019)   11.50%
(Libor + 10.00%/S)
    11/4/2011     50,000     50,000 (3)(20)      
                                   
                        65,000     65,000        
                                       
Reed Group, Ltd.   Medical disability management services provider   Equity interests         4/1/2010         435 (2)      
                                       
Respicardia, Inc.   Developer of implantable therapies to improve cardiovascular health   Senior secured loan ($6,000 par due 7/2015)   11.00%     6/28/2012     5,968     6,000 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 99,094 shares of Series C preferred stock         6/28/2012     38     29 (2)      
                                   
                        6,006     6,029        
                                       
Sage Products Holdings III, LLC   Patient infection control and preventive care solutions provider   Junior secured loan ($75,000 par due 6/2020)   9.25%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    12/13/2012     75,000     75,000 (2)(20)      
                                       
Soteria Imaging Services, LLC(6)   Outpatient medical imaging provider   Junior secured loan ($2,521 par due 11/2010)         4/1/2010     2,050     843 (2)(19)      
        Preferred member units (1,823,179 units)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        2,050     843        
                                       
SurgiQuest, Inc.   Medical device manufacturer   Senior secured loan ($7,000 par due 10/2016)   10.00%     9/28/2012     6,801     7,000 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 54,672 shares of Series D-4 convertible preferred stock         9/28/2012         (2)      
                                   
                        6,801     7,000        
                                       
U.S. Anesthesia Partners, Inc.   Anesthesiology service provider   Senior secured loan ($15,000 par due 12/2018)   6.50%
(Libor + 5.50%/Q)
    12/27/2012     15,000     15,000 (2)(20)      
                                       
Vantage Oncology, Inc.   Radiation oncology care provider   Common stock (62,157 shares)         2/3/2011     4,670     2,616 (2)      
                                   
                        764,148     762,032     19.11 %
                                   
                                     

F-8


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Education                                      
American Academy Holdings, LLC   Provider of education, training, certification, networking, and consulting services to medical coders and other healthcare professionals   Senior secured loan ($541 par due 3/2016)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    3/18/2011     541     541 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($10,357 par due 3/2016)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    3/18/2011     10,357     10,357 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($60,904 par due 3/2016)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    3/18/2011     60,904     60,904 (3)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($4,782 par due 3/2016)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    3/18/2011     4,782     4,782 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        76,584     76,584        
                                       
Campus Management Corp. and Campus Management Acquisition Corp.(6)   Education software developer   Preferred stock (485,159 shares)         2/8/2008     10,520     6,589 (2)      
                                       
Community Education Centers, Inc.   Offender re-entry and in-prison treatment services provider   Senior secured loan ($15,000 par due 12/2014)   6.25%
(Libor + 5.25%/Q)
    12/10/2010     15,000     15,000 (2)(15)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($714 par due 12/2014)   7.50% (Base Rate + 4.25%/Q)     12/10/2010     714     714 (2)(15)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($33,150 par due 12/2015)   15.33%
(Libor + 8.50% Cash, 6.50% PIK/Q)
    12/10/2010     33,150     29,837 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($9,978 par due 12/2015)   15.31%
(Libor + 8.50% Cash, 6.50% PIK/Q)
    12/10/2010     9,978     8,980 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 654,618 shares         12/13/2010         (2)      
                                   
                        58,842     54,531        
                                       
eInstruction Corporation   Developer, manufacturer and retailer of educational products   Junior secured loan ($17,000 par due 7/2014)         4/1/2010     15,257     (2)(19)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($31,997 par due 1/2015)         4/1/2010     24,151     (2)(19)      
        Common stock (2,406 shares)         4/1/2010     926     (2)      
                                   
                        40,334            
                                       
ELC Acquisition Corp., ELC Holdings Corporation, and Excelligence Learning Corporation(6)   Developer, manufacturer and retailer of educational products   Preferred stock (99,492 shares)   12.00% PIK     8/1/2011     10,492     11,766 (2)      
        Common stock (50,800 shares)         8/1/2011     51     2,789 (2)      
                                   
                        10,543     14,555        
                                       
Infilaw Holding, LLC   Operator of three for-profit law schools   Senior secured loan ($1 par due 8/2016)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    8/25/2011     1     1 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($19,157 par due 8/2016)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    8/25/2011     19,157     19,157 (3)(20)      
        Series A preferred units (124,890 units)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    8/25/2011     124,890     124,890 (2)(20)      
        Series B preferred stock (3.91 units)         10/19/2012     9,245     9,524 (2)      
                                   
                        153,293     153,572        
                                     

F-9


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Instituto de Banca y Comercio, Inc. & Leeds IV Advisors, Inc.   Private school operator   Series B preferred stock (1,750,000 shares)         8/5/2010     5,000     7,143 (2)      
        Series C preferred stock (2,512,586 shares)         6/7/2010     689     159 (2)      
        Common stock (20 shares)         6/7/2010         (2)      
                                   
                        5,689     7,302        
                                       
Lakeland Tours, LLC   Educational travel provider   Senior secured loan ($58,826 par due 12/2016)   9.25%
(Libor + 8.25%/Q)
    10/4/2011     58,670     58,826 (14)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($1,793 par due 12/2016)   5.25%
(Libor + 4.25%/Q)
    10/4/2011     1,789     1,793 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($40,362 par due 12/2016)   9.25%
(Libor + 8.25%/Q)
    10/4/2011     40,255     40,362 (3)(14)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($8,967 par due 12/2016)   5.25%
(Libor + 4.25%/Q)
    10/4/2011     8,943     8,967 (3)(20)      
        Common stock (5,000 shares)         10/4/2011     5,000     4,555 (2)      
                                   
                        114,657     114,503        
                                       
R3 Education, Inc. and EIC Acquisitions Corp.   Medical school operator   Preferred stock (8,800 shares)         7/30/2008     2,200     1,936 (2)      
        Common membership interest (26.27% interest)         9/21/2007     15,800     29,829 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 27,890 shares         12/8/2009         (2)      
                                   
                        18,000     31,765        
                                   
                        488,462     459,401     11.52 %
                                   
                                       
Financial Services                                      
AllBridge Financial, LLC(7)   Asset management services   Equity interests         4/1/2010     5,675     7,814        
                                       
Callidus Capital Corporation(7)   Asset management services   Common stock (100 shares)         4/1/2010     3,000     1,718        
                                       
Ciena Capital LLC(7)   Real estate and small business loan servicer   Senior secured revolving loan ($14,000 par due 12/2014)   6.00%     11/29/2010     14,000     14,000 (2)      
        Senior secured loan ($32,000 par due 12/2016)   12.00%     11/29/2010     32,000     32,000 (2)      
        Equity interests         11/29/2010     53,374     18,616 (2)      
                                   
                        99,374     64,616        
                                       
Commercial Credit Group, Inc.   Commercial equipment finance and leasing company   Senior subordinated loan ($28,000 par due 5/2018)   12.75%     5/10/2012     28,000     28,000 (2)      
                                       
Cook Inlet Alternative Risk, LLC   Risk management services   Senior subordinated loan ($2,750 par due 9/2015)   9.00%     9/30/2011     2,750     2,750 (2)      
                                       
Financial Pacific Company   Commercial finance leasing   Preferred stock (6,500 shares)   8.00% PIK     10/13/2010     3,733     13,687        
        Common stock (650,000 shares)         10/13/2010                
                                   
                        3,733     13,687        
                                       
Gordian Acquisition Corporation   Financial services firm   Common stock (526 shares)         11/30/2012                
                                     

F-10


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Imperial Capital Group LLC   Investment services   Class A common units (7,710 units)         5/10/2007     14,997     18,954 (2)      
        2006 Class B common units (2,526 units)         5/10/2007     3     4 (2)      
        2007 Class B common units (315 units)         5/10/2007         1 (2)      
                                   
                        15,000     18,959        
                                       
Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P.(7)(9)   Asset management services   Member interest (100.00% interest)         6/15/2009     170,961     294,258        
                                   
                        328,493     431,802     10.83 %
                                   
                                       
Restaurants and Food Services                                      
ADF Capital, Inc. & ADF Restaurant Group, LLC   Restaurant owner and operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,468 par due 11/2013)   6.50%
(Libor + 3.50%/Q)
    11/27/2006     1,468     1,468 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($200 par due 11/2013)   6.50% (Base Rate + 2.50%/Q)     11/27/2006     200     200 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,200 par due 11/2014)   12.50%
(Libor + 9.50%/Q)
    11/27/2006     9,200     9,200 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($11,034 par due 11/2014)   12.50%
(Libor + 9.50%/Q)
    11/27/2006     11,037     11,034 (3)(20)      
        Promissory note ($14,897,360 par due 11/2016)   12.00% PIK     11/27/2006     16,001     18,719 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 0.61 shares         6/1/2006         5,496 (2)      
                                   
                        37,906     46,117        
                                       
Benihana, Inc.   Restaurant owner and operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($431 par due 8/2017)   9.25%
(Libor + 8.00%/M)
    8/21/2012     431     431 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($21,769 par due 2/2018)   9.25%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    8/21/2012     21,769     21,769 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($10,000 par due 2/2018)   9.25%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    8/21/2012     10,000     10,000 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        32,200     32,200        
                                       
Hojeij Branded Foods, Inc.   Airport restaurant operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,900 par due 2/2017)   9.00%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    2/15/2012     1,900     1,900 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($22,600 par due 2/2017)   9.00%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    2/15/2012     22,025     22,600 (2)(20)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 7.5% of membership interest         2/15/2012         132 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 324 shares of Class A common stock         2/15/2012     669     1,899 (2)      
                                   
                        24,594     26,531        
                                     

F-11


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Orion Foods, LLC (fka Hot Stuff Foods, LLC)(7)   Convenience food service retailer   Senior secured revolving loan ($7,800 par due 9/2014)   10.75% (Base Rate + 7.50%/M)     4/1/2010     7,800     7,800 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($33,477 par due 9/2014)   10.00%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    4/1/2010     33,477     33,477 (3)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($37,552 par due 9/2014)         4/1/2010     23,695     17,807 (2)(19)      
        Preferred units (10,000 units)         10/28/2010         (2)      
        Class A common units (25,001 units)         4/1/2010         (2)      
        Class B common units (1,122,452 units)         4/1/2010         (2)      
                                   
                        64,972     59,084        
                                       
OTG Management, LLC   Airport restaurant operator   Senior secured loan ($25,000 par due 12/2017)   8.75%
(Libor + 7.25%/Q)
    12/11/2012     25,000     25,000 (2)(20)      
        Common units (3,000,000 units)         1/5/2011     3,000     2,042 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 7.73% of common units         6/19/2008     100     4,334 (2)      
                                   
                        28,100     31,376        
                                       
Performance Food Group, Inc. and Wellspring Distribution Corp.   Food service distributor   Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 5/2015)   11.00%     5/30/2012     50,000     50,000 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($50,250 par due 5/2015)   11.00%     5/23/2008     49,529     50,250 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 5/2015)   11.00%     5/23/2008     49,705     50,000 (3)      
        Class A non-voting common stock (1,366,120 shares)         5/3/2008     7,500     6,732 (2)      
                                   
                        156,734     156,982        
                                   
                                       
Restaurant Holding Company, LLC   Fast food restaurant operator   Senior secured loan ($61,333 par due 2/2017)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.50%/M)
    2/15/2012     60,280     61,333 (3)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,436 par due 2/2017)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.50%/M)
    2/15/2012     9,272     9,436 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        69,552     70,769        
                                       
S.B. Restaurant Company   Restaurant owner and operator   Preferred stock (46,690 shares)         4/1/2010         (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 257,429 shares of common stock         4/1/2010         (2)      
                                   
                                   
                                   
                        414,058     423,059     10.61 %
                                   
                                       
Services—Other                                      
Capital Investments and Ventures Corp.   SCUBA diver training and certification provider   Senior secured loan ($64,837 par due 8/2018)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.25%/Q)
    8/9/2012     64,837     64,837 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,975 par due 8/2018)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.25%/Q)
    8/9/2012     9,975     9,975 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        74,812     74,812        
                                     

F-12


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Competitor Group, Inc. and Calera XVI, LLC   Endurance sports media and event operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($2,850 par due 11/2018)   10.00% (Base Rate + 6.75%/Q)     11/30/2012     2,850     2,850 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($900 par due 11/2018)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.75%/Q)
    11/30/2012     900     900 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($54,500 par due 11/2018)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.75%/Q)
    11/30/2012     54,500     54,500 (2)(20)      
        Membership units (2,500,000 units)         11/30/2012     2,500     2,500 (2)(9)      
                                   
                        60,750     60,750        
                                       
Massage Envy, LLC   Franchiser in the massage industry   Senior secured loan ($80,494 par due 9/2018)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.25%/Q)
    9/27/2012     80,494     80,494 (2)(20)      
        Common stock (3,000,000 shares)         9/27/2012     3,000     3,000 (2)      
                                   
                        83,494     83,494        
                                       
McKenzie Sports Products, LLC   Designer, manufacturer and distributor of taxidermy forms and supplies   Senior secured loan ($11,833 par due 3/2017)   7.00%
(Libor + 5.50%/M)
    3/30/2012     11,833     11,833 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($28 par due 3/2017)   7.75% (Base Rate + 4.50%/M)     3/30/2012     28     28 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,902 par due 3/2017)   7.00%
(Libor + 5.50%/M)
    3/30/2012     9,902     9,902 (4)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($23 par due 3/2017)   7.75% (Base Rate + 4.50%/M)     3/30/2012     23     23 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        21,786     21,786        
                                       
The Dwyer Group(6)   Operator of multiple franchise concepts primarily related to home maintenance or repairs   Senior subordinated loan ($25,400 par due 6/2018)   12.00% Cash, 1.50% PIK     12/22/2010     25,400     25,400 (2)      
        Series A preferred units (13,292,377 units)   8.00% PIK     12/22/2010     6,337     13,962 (2)      
                                   
                        31,737     39,362        
                                       
Wash Multifamily Laundry Systems, LLC (fka Web Services Company, LLC)   Laundry service and equipment provider   Senior secured loan ($27,172 par due 8/2014)   7.00% (Base Rate + 3.75%/Q)     6/26/2012     27,091     27,172 (2)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($40,000 par due 8/2015)   10.88%
(Libor + 9.38%/Q)
    1/25/2011     40,000     40,000 (2)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 8/2015)   10.88%
(Libor + 9.38%/Q)
    1/25/2011     50,000     50,000 (3)(20)      
                                   
                        117,091     117,172        
                                   
                        389,670     397,376     9.96 %
                                   
                                       
Business Services                                      
Access CIG, LLC   Records and information management services provider   Senior secured loan ($1,000 par due 10/2017)   7.00%
(Libor + 5.75%/Q)
    10/5/2012     1,000     1,000 (2)(20)      
                                       
Cast & Crew Payroll, LLC and Centerstage Co-Investors, L.L.C.(6)   Payroll and accounting services provider to the entertainment industry   Senior secured loan ($100,000 par due 12/2017)   7.50%
(Libor + 6.50%/Q)
    12/24/2012     100,000     100,000 (2)(20)      
        Class A membership units (2,500,000 units)         12/24/2012     2,500     2,500 (2)      
        Class B membership units (2,500,000 units)         12/24/2012     2,500     2,500 (2)      
                                   
                        105,000     105,000        
                                     

F-13


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
CIBT Investment Holdings, LLC   Expedited travel document processing services   Class A shares (2,500 shares)         12/15/2011     2,500     3,543 (2)      
                                       
CitiPostal Inc.(7)   Document storage and management services   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,000 par due 12/2013)   6.75% (Base Rate + 3.25%/Q)     4/1/2010     1,000     1,000 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($523 par due 12/2013)   8.50% Cash, 5.50% PIK     4/1/2010     523     523 (2)      
        Senior secured loan ($53,561 par due 12/2013)   8.50% Cash, 5.50% PIK     4/1/2010     53,561     53,561 (3)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($17,224 par due 12/2015)         4/1/2010     13,038     1,556 (2)(19)      
        Common stock (37,024 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        68,122     56,640        
                                       
Command Alkon, Inc.   Software solutions provider to the ready-mix concrete industry   Junior secured loan ($39,130 par due 3/2018)   9.75%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    9/28/2012     39,130     39,130 (2)(20)      
                                       
Cornerstone Records Management, LLC   Physical records storage and management service provider   Senior secured loan ($18,460 par due 8/2016)   10.50%
(Libor + 9.00%/Q)
    8/12/2011     18,460     17,722 (2)(20)      
                                       
HCP Acquisition Holdings, LLC(7)   Healthcare compliance advisory services   Class A units (12,287,082 units)         6/26/2008     12,347     (2)      
                                       
IfByPhone Inc.   Voice-based marketing automation software provider   Senior secured loan ($2,000 par due 11/2015)   11.00%     10/15/2012     1,917     2,000 (2)      
        Senior secured loan ($1,000 par due 1/2016)   11.00%     10/15/2012     1,000     1,000 (2)      
        Warrant to purchase up to 124,300 shares of Series C preferred stock         10/15/2012     88     88 (2)      
                                   
                        3,005     3,088        
                                       
Impact Innovations Group, LLC   IT consulting and outsourcing services   Member interest (50.00% interest)         4/1/2010         200        
                                       
Investor Group Services, LLC(6)   Business consulting for private equity and corporate clients   Limited liability company membership interest (10.00% interest)         6/22/2006         711        
                                       
Itel Laboratories, Inc.   Data services provider for building materials to property insurance industry   Senior secured loan ($12,263 par due 6/2018)   6.25%
(Libor + 5.00%/Q)
    6/29/2012     12,263     12,263 (2)(20)      
        Preferred units (1,798,391 units)         6/29/2012     1,000     1,093 (2)      
                                   
                        13,263     13,356        
                                       
Multi-Ad Services, Inc.(6)   Marketing services and software provider   Preferred units (1,725,280 units)         4/1/2010     788     2,037        
        Common units (1,725,280 units)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        788     2,037        
                                     

F-14


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
MVL Group, Inc.(7)   Marketing research provider   Senior secured revolving loan ($806 par due 6/2012)   4.94%
(Libor + 4.50%/Q)
    6/28/2012     806     806 (2)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($36,766 par due 7/2012)         4/1/2010     34,636     5,330 (2)(19)      
        Junior subordinated loan ($185 par due 7/2012)         4/1/2010         (2)(19)      
        Common stock (560,716 shares)         4/1/2010         (2)      
                                   
                        35,442     6,136        
                                       
Performant Financial Corporation   Collections services   Common stock (772,130 shares)         4/1/2010     1,191     7,799 (2)      
        Common stock (207,912 shares)         2/5/2005     241     2,100 (2)      
                                   
                        1,432     9,899        
                                       
Pillar Processing LLC and PHL Holding Co.(6)   Mortgage services   Senior secured loan ($7,033 par due 11/2018)         7/31/2008     6,709     7,033 (2)(19)      
        Senior secured loan ($7,375 par due 5/2019)         11/20/2007     6,661     522 (2)(19)      
        Class A common stock (576 shares)         7/31/2012     3,768     (2)      
                                   
                        17,138     7,555        
                                       
Powersport Auctioneer Holdings, LLC   Powersport vehicle auction operator   Common units (1,972 units)         3/2/2012     1,000     736 (2)      
                                       
Prommis Holdings, LLC   Bankruptcy and foreclosure processing services   Class B common units (1,727 units)         6/12/2012         (2)      
                                       
Promo Works, LLC   Marketing services   Senior secured loan ($8,655 par due 12/2013)         4/1/2010     3,249     2,042 (2)(19)      
                                       
R2 Acquisition Corp.   Marketing services   Common stock (250,000 shares)         5/29/2007     250     137 (2)      
                                       
Strident Holding, Inc.   Recovery audit services provider to commercial and governmental healthcare payors   Senior secured loan ($7,935 par due 7/2018)   6.50%
(Libor + 5.25%/Q)
    7/26/2012     7,935     7,935 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,975 par due 7/2018)   6.50%
(Libor + 5.25%/Q)
    7/26/2012     9,975     9,975 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        17,910     17,910        
                                       
Summit Business Media Parent Holding Company LLC   Business media consulting services   Limited liability company membership interest (45.98% interest)         5/20/2011         873 (2)      
                                       
TOA Technologies, Inc.   Cloud based, mobile workforce management applications provider   Senior secured loan ($13,000 par due 10/2016)   10.25%     10/31/2012     12,415     12,480 (2)      
        Warrant to purchase up to 2,509,770 shares of Series D preferred stock         10/31/2012     605     617 (2)      
                                   
                        13,020     13,097        
                                       
Tradesmen International, Inc.   Construction labor support   Warrants to purchase up to 771,036 shares         4/1/2010         10,150        
                                     

F-15


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Tripwire, Inc.   IT security software provider   Senior secured loan ($50,000 par due 5/2018)   6.00%
(Libor + 4.75%/Q)
    5/23/2011     50,000     50,000 (3)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($10,000 par due 5/2018)   6.00%
(Libor + 4.75%/Q)
    5/23/2011     10,000     10,000 (4)(20)      
        Class A common stock (2,970 shares)         5/23/2011     2,970     6,941 (2)      
        Class B common stock (2,655,638 shares)         5/23/2011     30     70 (2)      
                                   
                        63,000     67,011        
                                       
Venturehouse-Cibernet Investors, LLC   Financial settlement services for intercarrier wireless roaming   Equity interest         4/1/2010         (2)      
                                       
VSS-Tranzact Holdings, LLC(6)   Management consulting services   Common membership interest (5.98% interest)         10/26/2007     10,204     3,652        
                                   
                        426,260     381,625     9.57 %
                                   
                                       
Containers—Packaging                                      
ICSH, Inc.   Industrial container manufacturer, reconditioner and servicer   Senior secured loan ($22,569 par due 8/2016)   8.00%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    8/31/2011     22,569     22,569 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($3,750 par due 8/2016)   9.25% (Base Rate + 6.00%/Q)     8/31/2011     3,750     3,750 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($24,217 par due 8/2016)   8.04%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    8/31/2011     24,217     24,217 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($67,961 par due 8/2016)   8.04%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    8/31/2011     67,961     67,961 (3)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($353 par due 8/2016)   8.00%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    8/31/2011     353     353 (3)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($14,795 par due 8/2016)   8.04%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    8/31/2011     14,795     14,795 (4)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($77 par due 8/2016)   8.00%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    8/31/2011     77     77 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        133,722     133,722        
                                       
Microstar Logistics LLC, Microstar Global Asset Management LLC and MStar Holding Corporation   Keg management solutions provider   Junior secured loan ($165,000 par due 12/2018)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.50%/Q)
    12/14/2012     165,000     165,000 (2)(20)      
        Common Stock (50,000 shares)         12/14/2012     5,000     5,000 (2)      
                                   
                        170,000     170,000        
                                       
Pregis Corporation, Pregis Intellipack Corp. and Pregis Innovative Packaging Inc.   Provider of highly-customized, tailored protective packaging solutions   Senior secured loan ($3 par due 3/2017)   8.50% (Base Rate + 5.25%/Q)     4/25/2012     3     3 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($992 par due 3/2017)   7.75%
(Libor + 6.25%/Q)
    4/25/2012     992     992 (2)(20)      
                                   
                        995     995        
                                   
                        304,717     304,717     7.64 %
                                   
                                     

F-16


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Consumer Products—Non-durable                                      
Gilchrist & Soames, Inc.   Personal care manufacturer   Senior secured revolving loan ($9,200 par due 10/2013)   6.25%
(Libor + 5.00%/M)
    4/1/2010     9,200     9,200 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($21,941 par due 10/2013)   13.44%     4/1/2010     21,710     20,847 (2)      
                                   
                        30,910     30,047        
                                       
Implus Footcare, LLC   Provider of footwear and other accessories   Preferred stock (455 shares)   6.00% PIK     10/31/2011     4,873     4,873 (2)      
        Common stock (455 shares)         10/31/2011     455     196 (2)      
                                   
                        5,328     5,069        
                                       
Insight Pharmaceuticals Corporation(6)   OTC drug products manufactuer   Junior secured loan ($19,310 par due 8/2017)   13.25%
(Libor + 11.75%/Q)
    8/26/2011     19,136     19,310 (3)(20)      
        Class A common stock (155,000 shares)         8/26/2011     6,035     8,277 (2)      
        Class B common stock (155,000 shares)         8/26/2011     6,035     8,277 (2)      
                                   
                        31,206     35,864        
                                       
Matrixx Initiatives, Inc. and Wonder Holdings Acquisition Corp.   Developer and marketer of over-the-counter healthcare products   Senior secured revolving loan ($9,500 par due 6/2016)   13.00%
(Libor + 12.00%/M)
    6/30/2011     9,500     8,550 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($38,781 par due 6/2016)   13.00%
(Libor + 12.00%/Q)
    6/30/2011     38,581     34,903 (3)(20)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 1,654,678 shares of common stock         7/27/2011         (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 1,489 shares of preferred stock         7/27/2011         (2)      
                                   
                        48,081     43,453        
                                       
Oak Parent, Inc.   Manufacturer of athletic apparel   Senior secured loan ($41,299 par due 4/2018)   8.00%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    4/2/2012     41,125     41,299 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,428 par due 4/2018)   8.00%
(Libor + 7.00%/Q)
    4/2/2012     9,388     9,428 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        50,513     50,727        
                                       
PG-ACP Co-Invest, LLC   Supplier of medical uniforms, specialized medical footwear and accessories   Class A membership units (1,000,0000 units)         8/29/2012     1,000     1,293 (2)      
                                       
The Step2 Company, LLC   Toy manufacturer   Junior secured loan ($27,000 par due 4/2015)   10.00%     4/1/2010     26,092     27,000 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($32,814 par due 4/2015)   10.00% Cash, 6.00% PIK     4/1/2010     31,859     28,876 (2)      
        Common units (1,116,879 units)         4/1/2010     24     94        
        Warrants to purchase up to 3,157,895 units         4/1/2010         269        
                                   
                        57,975     56,239        
                                       
The Thymes, LLC(7)   Cosmetic products manufacturer   Preferred units (6,283 units)   8.00% PIK     6/21/2007     5,631     5,244        
        Common units (5,400 units)         6/21/2007         3,138        
                                   
                        5,631     8,382        
                                     

F-17


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Woodstream Corporation   Pet products manufacturer   Senior secured loan ($3,000 par due 8/2014)   6.50%
(Libor + 5.00%/Q)
    4/18/2012     3,000     3,000 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($15,000 par due 8/2014)   6.50%
(Libor + 5.00%/Q)
    4/18/2012     15,000     15,000 (4)(20)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($45,000 par due 2/2015)   12.00%     1/22/2010     41,637     45,000 (2)      
        Common stock (4,254 shares)         1/22/2010     1,222     2,999 (2)      
                                   
                        60,859     65,999        
                                   
                        291,503     297,073     7.45 %
                                   
                                       
Energy                                      
Centinela Funding, LLC   Solar power generation facility developer and operator   Senior secured loan ($45,000 par due 11/2020)   10.00%
(Libor + 8.75%/Q)
    11/14/2012     45,000     45,000 (2)(20)      
                                       
EquiPower Resources Holdings, LLC   Gas-fired power generation facilities operator   Junior secured loan ($22,500 par due 6/2019)   10.00%
(Libor + 8.50%/Q)
    6/27/2012     22,073     22,500 (2)(20)      
                                       
La Paloma Generating Company, LLC   Natural gas fired, combined cycle plant operator   Junior secured loan ($59,000 par due 8/2018)   10.25%
(Libor + 8.75%/Q)
    8/9/2011     57,908     56,640 (2)(20)      
                                       
Panda Sherman Power, LLC   Developer and operator of a gas turbine power plant   Senior secured loan ($32,500 par due 9/2018)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.50%/Q)
    9/14/2012     32,500     32,500 (2)(20)      
                                       
Panda Temple Power, LLC   Developer and operator of a gas turbine power plant   Senior secured loan ($60,000 par due 7/2018)   11.50%
(Libor + 10.00%/Q)
    7/17/2012     58,157     60,000 (2)(20)      
                                   
                        215,638     216,640     5.43 %
                                   
                                       
Automotive Services                                      
Driven Holdings, LLC   Automotive aftermarket car care franchisor   Preferred stock (247,500 units)         12/16/2011     2,475     2,688 (2)      
        Common stock (25,000 units)         12/16/2011     25     137 (2)      
                                   
                        2,500     2,825        
                                       
Eckler Industries, Inc.   Restoration parts and accessories provider for classic automobiles   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,300 par due 7/2017)   8.25% (Base Rate + 5.00%/M)     7/12/2012     1,300     1,300 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($52,071 par due 7/2017)   7.25%
(Libor + 6.00%/M)
    7/12/2012     52,071     52,071 (2)(20)      
        Series A preferred stock (1,800 shares)         7/12/2012     1,800     1,871 (2)      
        Common stock (20,000 shares)         7/12/2012     200     200 (2)      
                                   
                        55,371     55,442        
                                       
EcoMotors, Inc.   Engine developer   Senior secured loan ($5,000 par due 7/2016)   10.13%     12/28/2012     4,850     5,000 (2)      
        Warrant to purchase up to 321,888 shares of Series C Preferred Stock         12/28/2012         84 (2)      
                                   
                        4,850     5,084        
                                     

F-18


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Service King Paint & Body, LLC   Collision repair site operators   Senior secured loan ($122,850 par due 8/2017)   8.50%
(Libor + 7.25%/Q)
    8/20/2012     122,850     122,850 (2)(16)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,925 par due 8/2017)   5.50%
(Libor + 4.25%/Q)
    8/20/2012     9,925     9,925 (2)(20)      
        Membership interest         8/20/2012     5,000     6,684 (2)      
                                   
                        137,775     139,459        
                                   
                        200,496     202,810     5.09 %
                                   
                                       
Manufacturing                                      
Cambrios Technologies Corporation   Nanotechnology-based solutions for electronic devices and computers   Senior secured loan ($4,848 par due 8/2015)   12.00%     8/7/2012     4,848     4,848 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 400,000 shares of Series D-4 convertible preferred stock         8/2/2012         8 (2)      
                                   
                        4,848     4,856        
                                       
Component Hardware Group, Inc.   Commercial equipment   Junior secured loan ($3,202 par due 12/2014)   7.00% Cash, 3.00% PIK     8/4/2010     3,202     3,202 (2)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($11,142 par due 12/2014)   7.50% Cash, 5.00% PIK     4/1/2010     8,343     11,142 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 1,462,500 shares of common stock         8/4/2010         7,322 (2)      
                                   
                        11,545     21,666        
                                       
MWI Holdings, Inc.   Provider of engineered springs, fasteners, and other precision components   Senior secured loan ($38,274 par due 6/2017)   10.00%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    6/15/2011     38,274     38,274 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($10,000 par due 6/2017)   10.00%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    6/15/2011     10,000     10,000 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        48,274     48,274        
                                       
NetShape Technologies, Inc.   Metal precision engineered components   Senior secured revolving loan ($415 par due 2/2013)   3.96%
(Libor + 3.75%/M)
    4/1/2010     415     373 (2)      
                                       
Pelican Products, Inc.   Flashlights   Senior secured loan ($7,960 par due 7/2018)   7.00%
(Libor + 5.50%/Q)
    7/13/2012     7,960     7,960 (4)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($32,000 par due 6/2019)   11.50%
(Libor + 10.00%/Q)
    7/13/2012     32,000     32,000 (2)(20)      
                                   
                        39,960     39,960        
                                       
Protective Industries, Inc. dba Caplugs   Plastic protection products   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,633 par due 5/2016)   5.75%
(Libor + 4.25%/M)
    5/23/2011     1,633     1,633 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($1,500 par due 5/2017)   5.75%
(Libor + 4.25%/M)
    11/30/2012     1,500     1,500 (2)(20)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($695 par due 5/2018)   8.00% Cash, 7.25% PIK     5/23/2011     695     695 (2)      
        Preferred stock (2,379,361 shares)         5/23/2011     2,307     4,644 (2)      
                                   
                        6,135     8,472        
                                       
Saw Mill PCG Partners LLC   Metal precision engineered components   Common units (1,000 units)         1/30/2007     1,000     (2)      
                                       
Sigma International Group, Inc.   Water treatment parts   Junior secured loan ($4,195 par due 4/2014)   10.00%
(Libor + 5.00% Cash, 5.00% PIK/Q)
    7/8/2011     4,195     4,195 (2)(20)      
                                     

F-19


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
SSH Environmental Industries, Inc. and SSH Non-Destructive Testing, Inc.   Magnetic sensors and supporting sensor products   Senior secured loan ($11,625 par due 12/2016)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.50%/Q)
    3/23/2012     11,424     11,625 (2)(20)      
                                   
                        127,796     139,421     3.50 %
                                   
                                       
Aerospace and Defense                                      
ILC Industries, LLC   Designer and manufacturer of protective cases and technically advanced lighting systems   Senior secured loan ($4,925 par due 7/2018)   7.50%
(Libor + 6.00%/Q)
    7/13/2012     4,838     4,925 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($19,950 par due 7/2018)   7.50%
(Libor + 6.00%/Q)
    7/13/2012     19,574     19,950 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        24,412     24,875        
                                       
PRV Aerospace, LLC   Aerospace precision components manufacturer   Senior secured loan ($1,136 par due 5/2018)   6.50%
(Libor + 5.25%/Q)
    5/15/2012     1,130     1,136 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($8,460 par due 5/2018)   6.50%
(Libor + 5.25%/Q)
    5/15/2012     8,383     8,460 (4)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($80,000 par due 5/2019)   10.50%
(Libor + 9.25%/Q)
    5/10/2012     80,000     80,000 (2)(20)      
                                   
                        89,513     89,596        
                                       
Wyle Laboratories, Inc. and Wyle Holdings, Inc.   Provider of specialized engineering, scientific and technical services   Senior preferred stock (775 shares)   8.00% PIK     1/17/2008     103     103 (2)      
        Common stock (1,885,195 shares)         1/17/2008     2,291     2,346 (2)      
                                   
                        2,394     2,449        
                                   
                        116,319     116,920     2.93 %
                                   
                                       
Telecommunications                                      
American Broadband Communications, LLC, American Broadband Holding Company, Cameron Holdings of NC, Inc., and Dialog Telecom LLC   Broadband communication services   Senior secured loan ($7,666 par due 9/2013)   7.50%
(Libor + 5.50%/Q)
    9/1/2010     7,666     7,666 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($16,476 par due 12/2013)   12.00%
(Libor + 11.50%/Q)
    6/20/2011     16,476     16,476 (2)(20)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($10,741 par due 11/2014)   12.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK     9/1/2010     10,741     10,312 (2)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($34,104 par due 11/2014)   12.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK     11/7/2007     34,104     32,740 (3)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($23,513 par due 11/2014)   10.00% Cash, 4.00% PIK     11/7/2007     23,513     22,574 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 378 shares         11/7/2007         2,533        
        Warrants to purchase up to 200 shares         9/1/2010         1,340 (2)      
                                   
                        92,500     93,641        
                                       
Startec Equity, LLC(7)   Communication services   Member interest         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        92,500     93,641     2.35 %
                                   
                                     

F-20


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Consumer Products—Durable                                      
Bushnell Inc.   Sports optics manufacturer   Junior secured loan ($48,825 par due 2/2016)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.50%/Q)
    4/1/2010     44,000     48,338 (2)(20)      
        Junior secured loan ($43,675 par due 2/2016)   9.50%
(Libor + 8.00%/Q)
    4/30/2012     43,675     43,675 (2)(20)      
                                   
                        87,675     92,013     2.31 %
                                   
                                       
Oil and Gas                                      
Geotrace Technologies, Inc.   Reservoir processing and development   Warrants to purchase up to 69,978 shares of common stock         4/1/2010     88     (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 210,453 shares of preferred stock         4/1/2010     2,805     1,757 (2)      
                                   
                        2,893     1,757        
                                       
UL Holding Co., LLC and Universal Lubricants, LLC(6)   Petroleum product manufacturer   Junior secured loan ($4,935 par due 12/2014)   9.19%
(Libor + 7.19% Cash, 2.00% PIK/Q)
    4/30/2012     4,935     4,935 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($25,413 par due 12/2014)   9.19%
(Libor + 7.19% Cash, 2.00% PIK/Q)
    4/30/2012     25,413     25,413 (3)      
        Junior secured loan ($4,920 par due 12/2014)   12.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK     4/30/2012     4,920     4,920 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($5,078 par due 12/2014)   12.00% Cash, 3.00% PIK     4/30/2012     5,078     5,078 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($18,614 par due 12/2014)   12.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK     4/30/2012     18,614     18,614 (3)      
        Class A common units (10,782 units)         6/17/2011     1,512     57 (2)      
        Class B-5 common units (599,200 units)         4/25/2008     5,472     226 (2)      
        Class B-4 common units (50,000 units)         6/17/2011     500     19 (2)      
        Class C common units (618,091 units)         4/25/2008         287 (2)      
                                   
                        66,444     59,549        
                                   
                        69,337     61,306     1.54 %
                                   
                                       
Retail                                      
Fulton Holdings Corp.   Airport restaurant operator   Senior secured loan ($40,000 par due 5/2016)   12.50%     5/28/2010     40,000     40,000 (3)(12)      
        Common stock (19,672 shares)         5/28/2010     1,967     1,873        
                                   
                        41,967     41,873        
                                       
Things Remembered Inc. and TRM Holdings Corporation   Personalized gifts retailer   Senior secured loan ($14,962 par due 5/2018)   8.00%
(Libor + 6.50%/Q)
    5/24/2012     14,962     14,962 (4)(20)      
                                   
                        56,929     56,835     1.43 %
                                   
                                       
Printing, Publishing and Media                                      
Batanga, Inc.   Independent digital media company   Senior secured loan ($5,500 par due 10/2016)   9.60%     10/31/2012     5,500     5,594 (2)(18)      
                                       
Earthcolor Group, LLC   Printing management services   Limited liability company interests (9.30%)         5/18/2012                
                                     

F-21


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
National Print Group, Inc.   Printing management services   Senior secured revolving loan ($913 par due 10/2013)   9.00%
(Libor + 6.00%/Q)
    3/2/2006     913     895 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($1,038 par due 10/2013)   9.00% (Base Rate + 5.00%/M)     3/2/2006     1,038     1,017 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($6,903 par due 10/2013)   10.00%
(Libor + 9.00% Cash, 1.00% PIK/Q)
    3/2/2006     6,631     6,834 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($331 par due 10/2013)   10.00% (Base Rate + 9.00% Cash, 1.00% PIK/Q)     3/2/2006     318     327 (2)(20)      
        Preferred stock (9,344 shares)         3/2/2006     2,000     (2)      
                                   
                        10,900     9,073        
                                       
The Teaching Company, LLC and The Teaching Company Holdings, Inc.   Education publications provider   Senior secured loan ($21,319 par due 3/2017)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.50%/Q)
    9/29/2006     21,319     21,319 (2)(20)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,902 par due 3/2017)   9.00%
(Libor + 7.50%/Q)
    9/29/2006     9,902     9,902 (4)(20)      
        Preferred stock (10,663 shares)         9/29/2006     1,066     3,225 (2)      
        Common stock (15,393 shares)         9/29/2006     3     8 (2)      
                                   
                        32,290     34,454        
                                   
                        48,690     49,121     1.23 %
                                   
                                       
Environmental Services                                      
AWTP, LLC(7)   Water treatment services   Junior secured loan ($4,212 par due 6/2015)   10.00%     4/18/2011     4,212     4,212 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($6,121 par due 6/2015)   15.00% PIK     4/18/2011     6,121     6,121 (2)      
        Membership interests (90% interest)         4/18/2011         4,580 (2)      
                                   
                        10,333     14,913        
                                       
RE Community Holdings II, Inc. and Pegasus Community Energy, LLC.   Operator of municipal recycling facilities   Preferred stock (1,000 shares)         3/1/2011     8,839     1,487 (2)      
                                       
Waste Pro USA, Inc   Waste management services   Preferred Class A common equity (611,615 shares)         11/9/2006     12,263     24,219 (2)      
                                   
                        31,435     40,619     1.02 %
                                   
                                       
Transportation                                      
PODS Funding Corp.   Storage and warehousing   Junior subordinated loan ($40,228 par due 5/2017)   12.75% Cash, 2.75% PIK     11/29/2011     40,228     40,228 (2)      
                                       
United Road Towing, Inc.   Towing company   Warrants to purchase up to 607 shares         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        40,228     40,228     1.01 %
                                   
                                       
Commercial Real Estate Finance                                      
10th Street, LLC(6)   Real estate holding company   Senior subordinated loan ($25,208 par due 11/2014)   8.93% Cash, 4.07% PIK     4/1/2010     25,208     25,208 (2)      
        Member interest (10.00% interest)         4/1/2010     594            
        Option (25,000 units)         4/1/2010     25     501        
                                   
                        25,827     25,709        
                                     

F-22


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
American Commercial Coatings, Inc.   Real estate property   Commercial mortgage loan ($2,505 par due 12/2025)         4/1/2010     926     2,061 (19)      
                                       
Cleveland East Equity, LLC   Hotel operator   Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010     1,026     3,639        
                                       
Commons R-3, LLC   Real estate developer   Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010                
                                       
Crescent Hotels & Resorts, LLC and affiliates(7)   Hotel operator   Senior subordinated loan ($2,236 par due 9/2011)         4/1/2010         (2)(19)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($2,092 par due 6/2017)         4/1/2010         (2)(19)      
        Common equity interest         4/1/2010                
        Limited liability company membership interest (100% interest)         6/19/2012         (2)      
                                   
                                   
                                       
Hot Light Brands, Inc.(7)   Real estate holding company   Senior secured loan ($32,957 par due 2/2011)         4/1/2010     1,664     1,128 (2)(19)      
        Common stock (93,500 shares)         4/1/2010         (2)      
                                   
                        1,664     1,128        
                                       
NPH, Inc.   Hotel property   Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010     5,291     6,123        
                                   
                        34,734     38,660     0.97 %
                                   
                                       
Health Clubs                                      
Athletic Club Holdings, Inc.   Premier health club operator   Senior secured loan ($11,500 par due 10/2013)   4.71%
(Libor + 4.50%/M)
    10/11/2007     11,500     11,500 (2)(13)      
                                       
CFW Co-Invest, L.P. and NCP Curves, L.P.   Health club franchisor   Limited partnership interest (4,152,165 shares)         7/31/2012     4,152     4,152 (2)      
        Limited partnership interest (1,847,835 shares)         7/31/2012     1,848     1,848 (2)      
                                   
                        6,000     6,000        
                                   
                        17,500     17,500     0.43 %
                                   
                                       
Food and Beverage                                      
Apple & Eve, LLC and US Juice Partners, LLC(6)   Juice manufacturer   Senior units (50,000 units)         10/5/2007     5,000     1,398        
                                       
Charter Baking Company, Inc.   Baked goods manufacturer   Senior subordinated loan ($8,885 par due 2/2013)   16.00% PIK     2/6/2008     8,885     8,885 (2)      
        Preferred stock (6,258 shares)         9/1/2006     2,568     1,617 (2)      
                                   
                        11,453     10,502        
                                       
Distant Lands Trading Co.   Coffee manufacturer   Class A common stock (1,294 shares)         4/1/2010     980     (2)      
        Class A-1 common stock (2,157 shares)         4/1/2010         (2)      
                                   
                        980            
                                   
                        17,433     11,900     0.29 %
                                   
                                     

F-23


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(5)(11)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair Value   Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Wholesale Distribution                                      
BECO Holding Company, Inc.   Wholesale distributor of first response fire protection equipment and related parts   Common stock (25,000 shares)         7/30/2010     2,500     2,457 (2)      
                                   
                        2,500     2,457     0.05 %
                                   
                      $ 5,823,451   $ 5,924,555     148.55 %
                                   

(1)
Other than the Company's investments listed in footnote 7 below (subject to the limitations set forth therein), the Company does not "Control" any of its portfolio companies, for the purposes of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the "Investment Company Act"). In general, under the Investment Company Act, the Company would "Control" a portfolio company if the Company owned more than 25% of its outstanding voting securities (i.e., securities with the right to elect directors) and/or had the power to exercise control over the management or policies of such portfolio company. All of the Company's portfolio company investments, which as of December 31, 2012 represented 149% of the Company's net assets or 93% of the Company's total assets, are subject to legal restrictions on sales.

(2)
These assets are pledged as collateral for the Revolving Credit Facility and, as a result, are not directly available to the creditors of the Company to satisfy any obligations of the Company other than the Company's obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility (see Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements).

(3)
These assets are owned by the Company's consolidated subsidiary Ares Capital CP Funding LLC ("Ares Capital CP"), are pledged as collateral for the Revolving Funding Facility and, as a result, are not directly available to the creditors of the Company to satisfy any obligations of the Company other than Ares Capital CP's obligations under the Revolving Funding Facility (see Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements).

(4)
These assets are owned by the Company's consolidated subsidiary Ares Capital JB Funding LLC ("ACJB"), are pledged as collateral for the SMBC Funding Facility and, as a result, are not directly available to the creditors of the Company to satisfy any obligations of the Company other than ACJB's obligations under the SMBC Funding Facility (see Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements).

(5)
Investments without an interest rate are non-income producing.

(6)
As defined in the Investment Company Act, the Company is deemed to be an "Affiliated Person" of a portfolio company because it owns 5% or more of the portfolio company's outstanding voting securities or it has the power to exercise control over the management or policies of such portfolio company (including through a management agreement). Transactions during the year ended December 31, 2012 in which the issuer was an Affiliated company (but not a portfolio company that the Company ("Controls") are as follows:

 
Company
  Purchases
(cost)
  Redemptions
(cost)
  Sales
(cost)
  Interest
income
  Capital
structuring
service fees
  Dividend
income
  Other
income
  Net
realized
gains (losses)
  Net
unrealized
gains (losses)
 
 

10th Street, LLC

  $   $   $   $ 3,227   $   $   $   $   $ (54 )
 

Apple & Eve, LLC and US Juice Partners, LLC

  $ 500   $ 32,344   $   $ 3,393   $   $   $ 44   $   $ (1,928 )
 

Campus Management Corp. and Campus Management Acquisition Corp

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (4,508 )
 

Cast & Crew Payroll, LLC and Centerstage Co-Investors, L.L.C.

  $ 105,000   $   $   $ 167   $ 2,788   $ 36   $ 2   $   $  
 

CT Technologies Intermediate Holdings, Inc. and CT Technologies Holdings, LLC

  $   $ 188   $   $ 1,169   $   $   $   $   $ (3,898 )
 

Direct Buy Holdings, Inc. and Direct Buy Investors, LP

  $   $   $ 10,927   $   $   $   $   $ (10,927 ) $ 10,927  
 

The Dwyer Group

  $   $   $   $ 2,959   $ 162   $ 785   $ 85   $   $ 5,027  
 

ELC Acquisition Corp. and ELC Holdings Corporation

  $   $   $   $   $   $ 343   $ 6   $   $ 5,058  
 

Firstlight Financial Corporation

  $   $ 28,890   $ 84,153   $ 1,773   $   $   $ 200   $ (25,959 ) $ 43,321  
 

Insight Pharmaceuticals Corporation

  $   $ 5,636   $   $ 3,242   $   $   $ 171   $ 54   $ (1,649 )
 

Investor Group Services, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $ 160   $ 15   $   $ (148 )
 

Multi-Ad Services, Inc.

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ 209  
 

Pillar Processing LLC and PHL Holding Co.

  $   $ 5,479   $   $   $   $   $ 9   $ 2   $ 1,110  
 

Soteria Imaging Services, LLC

  $   $ 441   $   $   $   $   $   $ 64   $ (584 )
 

VSS-Tranzact Holdings, LLC

  $   $   $ 867   $   $   $   $   $   $ 3,453  
 

UL Holding Co., LLC

  $ 44,532   $ 13,766   $   $ 5,837   $ 732   $   $ 197   $   $ (6,953 )
(7)
As defined in the Investment Company Act, the Company is deemed to be both an "Affiliated Person" and "Control" this portfolio company because it owns more than 25% of the portfolio company's outstanding voting securities or it has the power to exercise control over the management or policies of such

F-24


 
Company
  Purchases   Redemptions
(cost)
  Sales
(cost)
  Interest
income
  Capital
structuring
service fees
  Dividend
income
  Other
income
  Net
realized
gains (losses)
  Net
unrealized
gains (losses)
 
 

AGILE Fund I, LLC

  $   $ 9   $   $   $   $ 1   $   $   $ (19 )
 

Allied Capital REIT, Inc.

  $   $   $ 375   $   $   $ 41   $   $ 147   $ (314 )
 

AllBridge Financial, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ 1,801  
 

Aviation Properties Corporation

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ 291   $  
 

AWTP, LLC

  $   $   $   $ 1,296   $   $   $ 50   $   $ 6,229  
 

BenefitMall Holdings, Inc.

  $   $ 40,326   $ 53,510   $ 2,440   $   $   $ 167   $ 12,546   $ (6,479 )
 

Callidus Capital Corporation

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ 942  
 

Ciena Capital LLC

  $   $   $   $ 4,758   $   $   $   $   $ (1,436 )
 

Citipostal, Inc.

  $   $ 2,710   $   $ 7,715   $   $   $ 112   $   $ (18 )
 

Crescent Hotels & Resorts, LLC and affiliates

  $   $   $ 2,843   $ 20   $   $   $   $ (5,473 ) $ 5,595  
 

HCI Equity, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (108 )
 

HCP Acquisition Holdings, LLC

  $ 1,254   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (6,177 )
 

Hot Light Brands, Inc.

  $   $ 2,282   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (282 )
 

Huddle House Inc.

  $   $ 20,801   $   $ 678   $   $   $ 187   $ (2,291 ) $ 1,701  
 

Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P.

  $ 58,085   $   $   $   $   $ 19,939   $   $   $ 41,576  
 

Ivy Hill Middle Market Credit Fund, Ltd.

  $   $ 25,000   $ 30,515   $ 3,943   $   $   $   $ 1,655   $ 1,515  
 

LVCG Holdings, LLC

  $   $   $ 6,600   $   $   $   $   $ (6,590 ) $ 6,600  
 

Making Memories Wholesale, Inc.

  $   $ 2,229   $   $   $   $   $   $ (12,281 ) $ 12,476  
 

MVL Group, Inc.

  $ 2,540   $ 25,607   $   $ 4,394   $   $   $   $   $ (27,867 )
 

Orion Foods, LLC

  $ 6,500   $ 5,142   $   $ 7,200   $   $   $ 806   $   $ (10,260 )
 

Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC*

  $ 269,967   $ 66,334   $   $ 184,701   $ 40,348   $   $ 17,865   $ 3,641   $ 833  
 

Stag-Parkway, Inc.

  $   $ 34,500   $ 3,090   $ 4,218   $   $ 733   $ 251   $ 29,998   $ (16,639 )
 

The Thymes, LLC

  $   $ 560   $   $   $   $ 481   $   $   $ 1,687  
(8)
Non-U.S. company or principal place of business outside the U.S. and as a result is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act. Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company's total assets.

(9)
Excepted from the definition of investment company under Section 3(c) of the Investment Company Act and as a result is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act. Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company's total assets.

(10)
In the first quarter of 2011, the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Staff") informally communicated to certain business development companies the Staff's belief that certain entities, which would be classified as an "investment company" under the Investment Company Act but for the exception from the definition of "investment company" set forth in Rule 3a-7 promulgated under the Investment Company Act, could not be treated as eligible portfolio companies (as defined in Section 2(a)(46) of the Investment Company Act). Subsequently, in August 2011 the Securities and Exchange Commission issued a concept release (the "Concept Release") which states that "[a]s a general matter, the Commission presently does not believe that Rule 3a-7 issuers are the type of small, developing and financially troubled businesses in which Congress intended BDCs primarily to invest" and requested comment on whether or not a 3a-7 issuer should be considered an "eligible portfolio company". Ares Capital provided a comment letter in respect of the Concept Release and continues to believe that the language of Section 2(a)(46) of the Investment Company Act permits a business development company to treat as "eligible portfolio companies" entities that rely on the 3a-7 exception. However, given the current uncertainty in this area (including the language in the Concept Release) and subsequent discussions with the Staff, Ares Capital has, solely for purposes of calculating the composition of its portfolio pursuant to Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act, identified these entities in the Company's schedule of investments as "non-qualifying assets" should the Staff ultimately disagree with Ares Capital's position.

(11)
Variable rate loans to the Company's portfolio companies bear interest at a rate that may be determined by reference to either LIBOR or an alternate base rate (commonly based on the Federal Funds Rate or the Prime Rate), at the borrower's option, which reset annually (A), semi-annually (S), quarterly (Q), bi-monthly (B), monthly (M) or daily (D). For each such loan, the Company has provided the interest rate in effect on the date presented.

(12)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 5.00% on $16 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(13)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 2.50% on $12 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(14)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 4.00% on $65 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

F-25


(15)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 1.13% on $19 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(16)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 3.00% on $73 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(17)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 3.13% on $56 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(18)
The Company is entitled to receive a fixed fee upon the occurrence of certain events as defined in the credit agreement governing the Company's debt investment in the portfolio company. The fair value of such fee is included in the fair value of the debt investment.

(19)
Loan was on non-accrual status as of December 31, 2012.

(20)
Loan includes interest rate floor feature.

(21)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated contractual interest rate of this security, the certificates entitle the holders thereof to receive a portion of the excess cash flow from the SSLP's loan portfolio, which may result in a return to the Company greater than the contractual stated interest rate.

F-26



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
As of December 31, 2011
(dollar amounts in thousands)

Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Investment Funds and Vehicles                                      
AGILE Fund I, LLC(6)(8)   Investment partnership   Member interest (0.50% interest)         4/1/2010   $ 216   $ 132        
                                       
CIC Flex, LP(8)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership units (0.94 unit)         9/7/2007     2,533     3,130        
                                       
Covestia Capital Partners, LP(8)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (47.00% interest)         6/17/2008     1,059     1,111        
                                       
Dynamic India Fund IV, LLC(8)   Investment company   Member interest (5.44% interest)         4/1/2010     4,822     4,728        
                                       
Firstlight Financial Corporation(5)(8)   Investment company   Senior subordinated loan ($71,542 par due 12/2016)   1.00% PIK     12/31/2006     71,269     67,947        
        Class A common stock (10,000 shares)         12/31/2006     10,000            
        Class B common stock (30,000 shares)         12/31/2006     30,000            
                                   
                        111,269     67,947        
                                       
HCI Equity, LLC(6)(7)(8)   Investment company   Member interest (100.00% interest)         4/1/2010     808     730        
                                       
Imperial Capital Private Opportunities, LP(8)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (80.00% interest)         5/10/2007     6,643     5,120        
                                       
Ivy Hill Middle Market Credit Fund, Ltd.(6)(7)(8)   Investment company   Class B deferrable interest notes ($40,000 par due 11/2018)   6.25% (Libor + 6.00%/Q)     11/20/2007     40,000     38,000        
        Subordinated notes ($16 par due 11/2018)   15.00%     11/20/2007     15,515     16,000        
                                   
                        55,515     54,000        
                                       
Kodiak Funding, LP(8)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (1.52% interest)         4/1/2010     868     823        
                                       
Novak Biddle Venture Partners III, L.P.(8)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (2.47% interest)         4/1/2010     221     196        
                                       
Partnership Capital Growth Fund I, L.P.(8)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (25.00% interest)         6/16/2006     1,791     3,726        
                                       
Partnership Capital Growth Fund III, L.P.(8)   Investment partnership   Limited partnership interest (2.50% interest)         10/5/2011     1,322     1,250        
                                       
Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC(6)(9)   Co-investment vehicle   Subordinated certificates ($1,044,977 par due 12/2020)   8.38% (Libor + 8.00%/Q)(17)     10/30/2009     1,034,254     1,059,178        
                                       
VSC Investors LLC(8)   Investment company   Membership interest (1.95% interest)         1/24/2008     1,139     997        
                                   
                        1,222,460     1,203,068     38.23 %
                                   
                                       
Healthcare—Services                                      
BenefitMall Holdings Inc.(6)   Employee benefits broker services company   Senior subordinated loan ($40,326 par due 6/2014)   18.00%     4/1/2010     40,326     40,326        
        Common stock (39,274,290 shares)         4/1/2010     53,510     59,990        
        Warrants         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        93,836     100,316        
                                       
CCS Group Holdings, LLC   Correctional facility healthcare operator   Class A units (601,937 units)         8/19/2010     602     1,158        
                                       
CT Technologies Intermediate Holdings, Inc. and CT Technologies Holdings LLC(5)   Healthcare analysis services   Senior secured loan ($7,245 par due 3/2017)   7.75% (Libor + 6.50%/Q)     3/15/2011     7,245     6,883 (2)(16)      

F-27


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
        Senior secured loan ($18 par due 3/2017)   8.75% (Base Rate + 5.50%/Q)     3/15/2011     18     17 (2)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($7,642 par due 3/2017)   7.75% (Libor + 6.50%/Q)     3/15/2011     7,642     7,260 (3)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($19 par due 3/2017)   8.75% (Base Rate + 5.50%/Q)     3/15/2011     19     18 (3)(16)      
        Class A common stock (9,679 shares)         6/15/2007     4,000     8,745        
        Class C common stock (1,546 shares)         6/15/2007         1,397        
                                   
                        18,924     24,320        
                                       
INC Research, Inc.   Pharmaceutical and biotechnology consulting services   Common stock (1,410,000 shares)         9/27/2010     1,512     1,403        
                                       
Magnacare Holdings, Inc., Magnacare Administrative Services, LLC, and Magnacare, LLC   Healthcare professional provider   Senior secured loan ($12,638 par due 9/2016)   9.75% (Libor + 8.75%/Q)     9/15/2010     12,638     12,638 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($44,393 par due 9/2016)   9.75% (Libor + 8.75%/Q)     9/15/2010     44,393     44,393 (2)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($8,257 par due 9/2016)   9.75% (Libor + 8.75%/Q)     9/15/2010     8,257     8,257 (3)(16)      
                                   
                        65,288     65,288        
                                       
MW Dental Holding Corp.   Dental services   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,700 par due 4/2017)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/M)     4/12/2011     1,700     1,700 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($15,384 par due 4/2017)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/M)     4/12/2011     15,384     15,384 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($49,750 par due 4/2017)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/M)     4/12/2011     49,750     49,750 (2)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($2,686 par due 4/2017)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/M)     4/12/2011     2,686     2,686 (3)(16)      
                                   
                        69,520     69,520        
                                       
Napa Management Services Corporation   Anesthesia management services provider   Senior secured loan ($10,892 par due 4/2016)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     4/15/2011     10,563     10,892 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($29,437 par due 4/2016)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     4/15/2011     29,437     29,437 (2)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($7,752 par due 4/2016)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     4/15/2011     7,752     7,752 (3)(16)      
        Common units (5,000 units)         4/15/2011     5,000     5,513        
                                   
                        52,752     53,594        
                                       
NS Merger Sub. Inc. and NS Holdings, Inc.   Healthcare technology provider   Senior subordinated loan ($579 par due 6/2017)   13.50%     6/21/2010     579     579        
        Senior subordinated loan ($50,000 par due 6/2017)   13.50%     6/21/2010     50,000     50,000 (2)      
        Common stock (2,500,000 shares)         6/21/2010     2,500     2,985        
                                   
                        53,079     53,564        
                                       
OnCURE Medical Corp.   Radiation oncology care provider   Common stock (857,143 shares)         8/18/2006     3,000     3,073        
                                       
Passport Health Communications, Inc., Passport Holding Corp. and Prism Holding Corp.   Healthcare technology provider   Series A preferred stock (1,594,457 shares)         7/30/2008     11,156     9,218        
        Common stock (16,106 shares)         7/30/2008     100            
                                   
                        11,256     9,218        
                                       
PG Mergersub, Inc. and PGA Holdings, Inc.   Provider of patient surveys, management reports and national databases for the integrated healthcare delivery system   Senior secured loan ($9,108 par due 11/2015)   6.75% (Libor + 5.00%/Q)     11/3/2010     9,085     9,108 (3)(16)      

F-28


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
        Senior subordinated loan ($4,000 par due 3/2016)   12.50%     3/12/2008     3,956     4,000        
        Preferred stock (333 shares)         3/12/2008     125     15        
        Common stock (16,667 shares)         3/12/2008     167     754        
                                   
                        13,333     13,877        
PRA Holdings, Inc.   Drug testing services   Senior secured loan ($11,330 par due 12/2014)   4.56% (Libor + 4.00%/Q)     12/14/2007     11,034     11,103 (2)      
        Senior secured loan ($12,000 par due 12/2014)   4.56% (Libor + 4.00%/Q)     12/14/2007     11,682     11,760 (3)      
                                   
                        22,716     22,863        
                                       
RCHP, Inc.   Operator of general acute care hospitals   Junior secured loan ($15,000 par due 5/2019)   11.50% (Libor + 10.00%/Q)     11/4/2011     15,000     15,000 (16)      
        Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 5/2019)   11.50% (Libor + 10.00%/Q)     11/4/2011     50,000     50,000 (2)(16)      
                                   
                        65,000     65,000        
                                       
Reed Group, Ltd.   Medical disability management services provider   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,650 par due 12/2013)         4/1/2010     1,497     1,402 (15)      
        Senior secured loan ($10,755 par due 12/2013)         4/1/2010     9,129     9,142 (15)      
        Senior secured loan ($20,777 par due 12/2013)         4/1/2010     15,918     2,431 (15)      
        Equity interests         4/1/2010     203            
                                   
                        26,747     12,975        
                                       
Soteria Imaging Services, LLC(5)   Outpatient medical imaging provider   Junior secured loan ($1,189 par due 11/2010)   14.50%     4/1/2010     1,057     808        
        Junior secured loan ($1,699 par due 11/2010)   12.50%     4/1/2010     1,529     1,154        
        Preferred member units (1,823,179 units)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        2,586     1,962        
                                       
Sunquest Information Systems, Inc.   Laboratory software solutions provider   Junior secured loan ($75,000 par due 6/2017)   9.75% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     12/16/2010     75,000     74,250 (16)      
        Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 6/2017)   9.75% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     12/16/2010     50,000     49,500 (2)(16)      
                                   
                        125,000     123,750        
                                       
U.S. Renal Care, Inc.   Dialysis provider   Senior secured loan ($7,444 par due 12/2016)   5.50% (Libor + 4.00%/Q)     6/9/2011     7,407     7,295 (16)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($50,569 par due 6/2018)   11.25% Cash, 2.00% PIK     5/24/2010     50,569     50,569 (2)      
                                   
                        57,976     57,864        
                                       
Vantage Oncology, Inc.   Radiation oncology care provider   Common stock (62,157 shares)         2/3/2011     4,670     5,057        
                                   
                        687,797     684,802     21.76 %
                                   
                                       
Education                                      
American Academy Holdings, LLC   Provider of education, training, certification, networking, and consulting services to medical coders and other healthcare professionals   Senior secured revolving loan ($100 par due 3/2016)   9.50% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     3/18/2011     100     100 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($26,199 par due 3/2016)   9.50% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     3/18/2011     26,199     26,199 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($53,468 par due 3/2016)   9.50% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     3/18/2011     53,468     53,468 (2)(16)      
                                   
                        79,767     79,767        
                                       
Campus Management Corp. and Campus Management Acquisition Corp.(5)   Education software developer   Preferred stock (485,159 shares)         2/8/2008     10,520     11,096        
                                     

F-29


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Community Education Centers, Inc.   Offender re-entry and in-prison treatment services provider   Senior secured loan ($17,857 par due 12/2014)   6.25% (Libor + 5.25%/Q)     12/10/2010     17,857     17,857 (16)      
        Junior secured loan ($31,835 par due 12/2015)   15.40% (Libor + 11.00% Cash, 4.00% PIK /Q)     12/10/2010     31,835     31,835        
        Junior secured loan ($9,582 par due 12/2015)   15.46% (Libor + 11.00% Cash, 4.00% PIK /Q)     12/10/2010     9,582     9,582        
        Warrants to purchase up to 578,427 shares         12/10/2010         258        
                                   
                        59,274     59,532        
                                       
eInstruction Corporation   Developer and manufacturer of educational software products   Junior secured loan ($17,000 par due 7/2014)   12.00% (Base Rate + 8.25%/M)     4/1/2010     15,396     12,410        
        Senior subordinated loan ($27,281 par due 1/2015)         4/1/2010     24,151     1,467 (15)      
        Common stock (2,406 shares)         4/1/2010     926            
                                   
                        40,473     13,877        
                                       
ELC Acquisition Corp., ELC Holdings Corporation, and Excelligence Learning Corporation(5)   Developer, manufacturer and distributor of educational products   Preferred stock (99,492 shares)         8/1/2011     10,149     9,154        
        Common stock (50,800 shares)         8/1/2011     51            
                                   
                        10,200     9,154        
                                       
Infilaw Holding, LLC   Operator of for-profit law schools   Senior secured loan ($29,925 par due 8/2016)   9.50% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     8/25/2011     29,925     29,925 (2)(16)      
        Series A preferred units (131,000 units)   10.75% (Base Rate + 7.50%/Q)     8/25/2011     131,000     131,000 (16)      
                                   
                        160,925     160,925        
                                       
Instituto de Banca y Comercio, Inc. & Leeds IV Advisors, Inc.   Private school operator   Series B preferred stock (1,750,000 shares)         8/5/2010     5,000     6,153        
        Series C preferred stock (2,512,586 shares)         6/7/2010     689     303        
        Common stock (20 shares)         6/7/2010                
                                   
                        5,689     6,456        
                                       
JTC Education Holdings, Inc.   Postsecondary school operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($2,225 par due 12/2014)   12.75% (Base Rate + 9.50%/Q)     12/31/2009     2,225     2,225 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($20,056 par due 12/2014)   12.50% (Libor + 9.50%/M)     12/31/2009     20,056     20,056 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,714 par due 12/2014)   12.50% (Libor + 9.50%/M)     12/31/2009     9,714     9,714 (3)(16)      
                                   
                        31,995     31,995        
                                       
Lakeland Tours, LLC   Educational travel provider   Senior secured revolving loan ($3,750 par due 12/2016)   6.75% (Base Rate + 3.50%/Q)     10/4/2011     3,750     3,750 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($64,338 par due 12/2016)   10.00% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     10/4/2011     64,136     64,338 (13)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($15,362 par due 12/2016)   6.00% (Libor + 4.50%/Q)     10/4/2011     15,314     15,362 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($40,362 par due 12/2016)   10.00% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     10/4/2011     40,231     40,362 (2)(13)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,638 par due 12/2016)   6.00% (Libor + 4.50%/Q)     10/4/2011     9,606     9,638 (2)(16)      
        Common stock (5,000 shares)         10/4/2011     5,000     5,000        
                                   
                        138,037     138,450        
                                       
R3 Education, Inc. and EIC Acquisitions Corp.(7)   Medical school operator   Senior secured loan ($6,162 par due 4/2013)   9.00% (Libor + 6.00%/Q)     9/21/2007     6,162     11,508 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($4,819 par due 4/2013)   9.00% (Libor + 6.00%/Q)     9/21/2007     4,819     8,996 (3)(16)      

F-30


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
        Senior secured loan ($6,509 par due 4/2013)   13.00% PIK     12/8/2009     4,030     12,149        
        Preferred stock (8,800 shares)         7/30/2008     2,200     1,650        
        Common membership interest (26.27% interest)         9/21/2007     15,800     23,207        
        Warrants to purchase up to 27,890 shares         12/8/2009                
                                   
                        33,011     57,510        
                                   
                        569,891     568,762     18.07 %
                                   
Restaurants and Food Services                                      
ADF Capital, Inc. & ADF Restaurant Group, LLC   Restaurant owner and operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($2,010 par due 11/2013)   6.50% (Libor + 3.50%/Q)     11/27/2006     2,010     2,010 (16)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($258 par due 11/2013)   6.50% (Base Rate + 2.50%/Q)     11/27/2006     258     258 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($7,305 par due 11/2013)   6.50% (Libor + 3.50%/Q)     11/27/2006     7,305     7,305 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($64 par due 11/2013)   6.50% (Base Rate + 2.50%/Q)     11/27/2006     64     64 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($11,277 par due 11/2014)   12.50% (Libor + 9.50%/Q)     11/27/2006     11,280     11,277 (2)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,402 par due 11/2014)   12.50% (Libor + 9.50%/Q)     11/27/2006     9,402     9,402 (3)(16)      
        Promissory note ($14,897,360 par due 11/2016)         6/1/2006     14,886     10,905        
        Warrants to purchase up to 0.61 shares         6/1/2006                
                                   
                        45,205     41,221        
                                       
Huddle House, Inc.(6)   Restaurant owner and operator   Senior subordinated loan ($20,924 par due 12/2015)   12.00% Cash, 3.00% PIK     4/1/2010     20,641     18,939        
        Common stock (358,279 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        20,641     18,939        
                                       
Orion Foods, LLC (fka Hot Stuff Foods, LLC)(6)   Convenience food service retailer   Senior secured revolving loan ($3,300 par due 9/2014)   10.75% (Base Rate + 7.50%/M)     4/1/2010     3,300     3,300 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($33,917 par due 9/2014)   10.00% (Libor + 8.50%/Q)     4/1/2010     33,917     33,917 (2)(16)      
        Junior secured loan ($37,552 par due 9/2014)   14.00%     4/1/2010     26,111     30,483        
        Preferred units (10,000 units)         10/28/2010                
        Class A common units (25,001 units)         4/1/2010                
        Class B common units (1,122,452 units)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        63,328     67,700        
                                       
OTG Management, Inc.   Airport restaurant operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,875 par due 8/2016)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     8/9/2011     1,875     1,875 (16)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($937 par due 8/2016)   9.25% (Base Rate + 6.00%/M)     8/9/2011     937     937 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($17,187 par due 8/2016)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     8/9/2011     17,187     17,187 (16)      
        Junior secured loan ($29,285 par due 8/2016)   14.50% (Libor + 13.00%/M)     8/9/2011     29,285     29,285 (16)      
        Common units (3,000,000 units)         1/5/2011     3,000     2,610        
        Warrants to purchase up to 100,866 shares of common stock         6/19/2008     100     4,544        
                                   
                        52,384     56,438        
                                       
PMI Holdings, Inc.   Restaurant owner and operator   Senior secured revolving loan ($2,500 par due 5/2015)   10.00% (Libor + 8.00%/M)     5/5/2010     2,500     2,500 (16)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($250 par due 5/2015)   10.25% (Base Rate + 7.00%/Q)     5/5/2010     250     250 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,008 par due 5/2015)   10.00% (Libor + 8.00%/M)     5/5/2010     9,008     9,008 (2)(16)      

F-31


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
        Senior secured loan ($4 par due 5/2015)   10.25% (Base Rate + 7.00%/M)     5/5/2010     4     4 (2)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,008 par due 5/2015)   10.00% (Libor + 8.00%/M)     5/5/2010     9,008     9,008 (3)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($4 par due 5/2015)   10.25% (Base Rate + 7.00%/M)     5/5/2010     4     4 (3)(16)      
                                   
                        20,774     20,774        
                                       
S.B. Restaurant Company   Restaurant owner and operator   Senior secured loan ($34,575 par due 7/2012)   13.00% (Libor + 9.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK /Q)     4/1/2010     31,283     34,575 (16)      
        Preferred stock (46,690 shares)         4/1/2010         117        
        Warrants to purchase up to 257,429 shares of common stock         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        31,283     34,692        
                                       
Vistar Corporation and Wellspring Distribution Corp.   Food service distributor   Junior secured loan ($70,250 par due 5/2015)   11.00%     5/23/2008     68,885     70,250        
        Junior secured loan ($30,000 par due 5/2015)   11.00%     5/23/2008     30,000     30,000 (2)      
        Class A non-voting common stock (1,366,120 shares)         5/3/2008     7,500     6,211        
                                   
                        106,385     106,461        
                                   
                        340,000     346,225     11.00 %
                                   
                                       
Business Services                                      
Acentia (fka Interactive Technology Solutions, LLC)   IT services provider   Senior secured loan ($7,332 par due 6/2015)   8.75% (Base Rate + 5.50%/Q)     10/21/2010     7,332     7,332 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($8,214 par due 6/2015)   8.75% (Base Rate + 5.50%/Q)     10/21/2010     8,214     8,214 (3)(16)      
                                   
                        15,546     15,546        
                                       
Aviation Properties Corporation(6)   Aviation services   Common stock (100 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                       
CIBT Investment Holdings, LLC   Expedited travel document processing services   Class A shares (2,500 shares)         12/15/2011     2,500     2,500        
                                       
CitiPostal Inc.(6)   Document storage and management services   Senior secured revolving loan ($3,200 par due 12/2013)   6.75% (Base Rate + 3.25%/Q)     4/1/2010     3,200     3,200 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($499 par due 12/2013)   8.50% Cash, 5.50% PIK     4/1/2010     499     499        
        Senior secured loan ($51,161 par due 12/2013)   8.50% Cash, 5.50% PIK     4/1/2010     51,161     51,161 (2)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($14,698 par due 12/2015)         4/1/2010     13,038     1,574 (15)      
        Common stock (37,024 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        67,898     56,434        
                                       
Cornerstone Records Management, LLC   Physical records storage and management service provider   Senior secured loan ($18,377 par due 8/2016)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     8/12/2011     18,377     18,193 (16)      
                                       
Coverall North America, Inc.(6)   Commercial janitorial service provider   Subordinated notes ($9,386 par due 2/2016)   10.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK     2/22/2011     9,386     9,386        
                                       
Diversified Collections Services, Inc.   Collections services   Senior secured loan ($34,000 par due 9/2012)   14.00% (Base Rate+ 10.75%/M)     6/25/2010     34,000     34,000 (2)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($5,263 par due 3/2012)   7.75% (Base Rate + 4.50%/M)     6/25/2010     5,263     5,263 (3)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($2,000 par due 9/2012)   14.00% (Base Rate + 10.75%/M)     6/25/2010     2,000     2,000 (3)(16)      
        Preferred stock (14,927 shares)         5/18/2006     169     328        
        Common stock (478,816 shares)         4/1/2010     1,478     3,274        

F-32


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
        Common stock (114,004 shares)         2/5/2005     295     918        
                                   
                        43,205     45,783        
                                       
HCP Acquisition Holdings, LLC(6)   Healthcare compliance advisory services   Class A units (11,092,585 units)         6/26/2008     11,093     4,923        
                                       
Impact Innovations Group, LLC   IT consulting and outsourcing services   Member interest (50.00% interest)         4/1/2010         200        
                                       
Investor Group Services, LLC(5)   Business consulting for private equity and corporate clients   Limited liability company membership interest (10.00% interest)         6/22/2006         859        
                                       
Multi-Ad Services, Inc.(5)   Marketing services and software provider   Preferred units (1,725,280 units)         4/1/2010     788     1,828        
        Common units (1,725,280 units)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        788     1,828        
MVL Group, Inc.(6)   Marketing research provider   Senior secured loan ($22,772 par due 7/2012)   12.00%     4/1/2010     22,772     22,772        
        Senior subordinated loan ($35,851 par due 7/2012)   12.00% Cash, 2.50% PIK     4/1/2010     35,283     33,844        
        Junior subordinated loan ($144 par due 7/2012)   10.00%     4/1/2010                
        Common stock (560,716 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        58,055     56,616        
                                       
Pillar Processing LLC and PHL Holding Co.(5)   Mortgage services   Senior secured loan ($7,375 par due 5/2014)         7/31/2008     7,375     1,250 (15)      
        Senior secured loan ($7,142 par due 11/2013)         11/20/2007     7,064     6,571 (15)      
        Senior secured loan ($4,458 par due 11/2013)         11/20/2007     4,409     4,101 (3)(15)      
        Common stock (85 shares)               3,768            
                                   
                        22,616     11,922        
                                       
Prommis Solutions, LLC, E-Default Services, LLC, Statewide Tax and Title Services, LLC & Statewide Publishing Services, LLC   Bankruptcy and foreclosure processing services   Senior subordinated loan ($44,926 par due 2/2014)         2/9/2007     43,819     5,273 (15)      
        Preferred units (30,000 units)         4/11/2006     3,000            
                                   
                        46,819     5,273        
                                       
Promo Works, LLC   Marketing services   Senior secured loan ($8,655 par due 12/2013)         4/1/2010     4,222     3,389 (15)      
                                       
R2 Acquisition Corp.   Marketing services   Common stock (250,000 shares)         5/29/2007     250     157        
                                       
Summit Business Media Parent Holding Company LLC   Business media consulting services   Limited liability company membership interest (45.98% interest)         5/20/2011         566        
                                       
Tradesmen International, Inc.   Construction labor support   Junior secured loan ($10,050 par due 5/2014)   13.00% Cash, 1.00% PIK     4/1/2010     7,872     10,050        
        Warrants to purchase up to 771,036 shares         4/1/2010         5,002        
                                   
                        7,872     15,052        
                                       
Tripwire, Inc.   IT security software provider   Senior secured loan ($30,000 par due 5/2018)   8.50% (Libor + 7.25%/Q)     5/23/2011     30,000     30,000 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($50,000 par due 5/2018)   8.50% (Libor + 7.25%/Q)     5/23/2011     50,000     50,000 (2)(16)      
        Class B common stock (2,655,638 shares)         5/23/2011     30     38        
        Class A common stock (2,970 shares)         5/23/2011     2,970     3,754        
                                   
                        83,000     83,792        
                                     

F-33


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Venturehouse-Cibernet Investors, LLC   Financial settlement services for intercarrier wireless roaming   Equity interest         4/1/2010                
                                       
VSS-Tranzact Holdings, LLC(5)   Management consulting services   Series B preferred units (854 units)         11/7/2011     867     768        
        Common membership interest (8.54% interest)         10/26/2007     10,204     200        
        Warrants to purchase up to 4,206 units         11/7/2011         98        
                                   
                        11,071     1,066        
                                   
                        402,698     333,485     10.60 %
                                   
                                       
Financial Services                                      
AllBridge Financial, LLC(6)   Asset management services   Equity interests         4/1/2010     11,395     11,733        
                                       
Callidus Capital Corporation(6)   Asset management services   Common stock (100 shares)         4/1/2010     3,000     776        
                                       
Ciena Capital LLC(6)   Real estate and small business loan servicer   Senior secured revolving loan ($14,000 par due 12/2013)   6.00%     11/29/2010     14,000     14,000        
        Senior secured loan ($32,000 par due 12/2015)   12.00%     11/29/2010     32,000     32,000        
        Equity interests         11/29/2010     53,374     20,051        
                                   
                        99,374     66,051        
                                       
Commercial Credit Group, Inc.   Commercial equipment finance and leasing company   Senior subordinated loan ($19,500 par due 6/2015)   15.00%     4/1/2010     19,500     19,500        
                                       
Cook Inlet Alternative Risk, LLC   Risk management services   Senior subordinated loan ($3,750 par due 9/2015)   9.00%     9/30/2011     3,750     3,550        
                                       
Financial Pacific Company   Commercial finance leasing   Preferred stock (6,500 shares)   8.00% PIK     10/13/2010     6,500     7,822        
        Common stock (650,000 shares)         10/13/2010                
                                   
                        6,500     7,822        
                                       
Imperial Capital Group, LLC   Investment services   Class A common units (7,710 units)         5/10/2007     14,997     20,445        
        2006 Class B common units (2,526 units)         5/10/2007     3     4        
        2007 Class B common units (315 units)         5/10/2007                
                                   
                        15,000     20,449        
                                       
Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P.(6)(8)   Asset management services   Member interest (100.00% interest)         6/15/2009     112,876     194,597        
                                   
                        271,395     324,478     10.31 %
                                   
                                       
Consumer Products— Non-durable                                      
Augusta Sportswear, Inc.   Manufacturer of athletic apparel   Senior secured loan ($26 par due 7/2015)   9.50% (Base Rate + 6.25%/Q)     9/3/2010     26     26 (3)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($8,819 par due 7/2015)   8.50% (Libor + 7.50%/Q)     9/3/2010     8,819     8,819(3 )(16)      
                                   
                        8,845     8,845        
                                       
Gilchrist & Soames, Inc.   Personal care manufacturer   Senior secured loan ($21,941 par due 10/2013)   13.44%     4/1/2010     21,435     21,941        
                                       
Implus Footcare, LLC   Provider of footwear and other accessories   Preferred stock (455 shares)   6.00% PIK     10/31/2011     4,591     4,591        

F-34


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
        Common stock (455 shares)         10/31/2011     455     455        
                                   
                        5,046     5,046        
                                       
Insight Pharmaceuticals Corporation(5)   OTC drug products manufacturer   Junior secured loan ($25,000 par due 8/2017)   13.25% (Libor + 11.75%/Q)     8/26/2011     24,740     24,000 (2)(16)      
        Class A common stock (155,000 shares)         8/26/2011     6,035     9,559        
        Class B common stock (155,000 shares)         8/26/2011     6,035     9,559        
                                   
                        36,810     43,118        
                                       
Making Memories Wholesale, Inc.(6)   Scrapbooking branded products manufacturer   Senior secured revolving loan ($2,250 par due 8/2014)         8/21/2009     2,229     963 (15)      
        Senior secured loan ($9,625 par due 8/2014)         8/21/2009     7,193     (15)      
        Senior secured loan ($5,973 par due 8/2014)         8/21/2009     3,874     (15)      
        Common stock (100 shares)         8/21/2009                
                                   
                        13,296     963        
                                       
Matrixx Initiatives, Inc. and Wonder Holdings Acquisition Corp.   Developer and marketer of over-the-counter healthcare products   Senior secured revolving loan ($10,000 par due 6/2016)   13.00% (Libor + 12.00%/M)     6/30/2011     10,000     9,700 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($41,437 par due 6/2016)   13.00% (Libor + 12.00%/Q)     6/30/2011     41,178     40,194 (2)(16)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 1,654,678 shares of common stock         7/27/2011                
        Warrants to purchase up to 1,489 shares of preferred stock         7/27/2011         1,504        
                                   
                        51,178     51,398        
                                       
The Step2 Company, LLC   Toy manufacturer   Junior secured loan ($27,000 par due 4/2015)   10.00%     4/1/2010     25,764     27,000        
        Junior secured loan ($31,178 par due 4/2015)   10.00% Cash, 5.00% PIK     4/1/2010     29,879     28,060        
        Common units (1,116,879 units)         4/1/2010     24     25        
        Warrants to purchase up to 3,157,895 units         4/1/2010         72        
                                   
                        55,667     55,157        
                                       
The Thymes, LLC(6)   Cosmetic products manufacturer   Preferred units (6,283 units)   8.00% PIK     6/21/2007     6,111     6,420        
        Common units (5,400 units)         6/21/2007         754        
                                   
                        6,111     7,174        
                                       
Woodstream Corporation   Pet products manufacturer   Senior subordinated loan ($45,000 par due 2/2015)   12.00%     1/22/2010     40,444     44,100        
        Common stock (4,254 shares)         1/22/2010     1,222     2,280        
                                   
                        41,666     46,380        
                                   
                        240,054     240,022     7.63 %
                                   
                                       
Containers—Packaging                                      
ICSH, Inc.   Industrial container manufacturer, reconditioner and servicer   Senior secured loan ($71,318 par due 8/2016)   8.00% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     8/31/2011     71,318     69,891 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($49,873 par due 8/2016)   8.00% (Libor + 7.00%/Q)     8/31/2011     49,873     48,875 (2)(16)      
                                   
                        121,191     118,766        
                                       
Microstar Logistics LLC   Keg management solutions provider   Junior secured loan ($60,000 par due 8/2016)   10.00% (Libor + 9.00%/Q)     8/5/2011     60,000     60,000 (16)      

F-35


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
        Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 8/2016)   10.00% (Libor + 9.00%/Q)     8/5/2011     50,000     50,000 (2)(16)      
                                   
                        110,000     110,000        
                                   
                        231,191     228,766     7.27 %
                                   
                                       
Aerospace and Defense                                      
AP Global Holdings, Inc.   Safety and security equipment manufacturer   Senior secured loan ($134,475 par due 7/2017)   7.25% (Libor + 5.75%/M)     7/22/2011     134,475     132,794 (14)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($49,875 par due 7/2017)   7.25% (Libor + 5.75%/M)     7/22/2011     49,875     49,252 (2)(16)      
                                   
                        184,350     182,046        
                                       
Wyle Laboratories, Inc. and Wyle Holdings, Inc.   Provider of specialized engineering, scientific and technical services   Senior preferred stock (775 shares)   8.00% PIK     1/17/2008     95     95        
        Common stock (1,885,195 shares)         1/17/2008     2,291     1,920        
                                   
                        2,386     2,015        
                                   
                        186,736     184,061     5.85 %
                                   
                                       
Manufacturing                                      
Component Hardware Group, Inc.   Commercial equipment   Junior secured loan ($3,106 par due 12/2014)   7.00% Cash, 3.00% PIK     8/4/2010     3,106     3,106        
        Senior subordinated loan ($10,596 par due 12/2014)   7.50% Cash, 5.00% PIK     4/1/2010     6,932     10,596        
        Warrants to purchase up to 1,462,500 shares of common stock         8/4/2010         3,181        
                                   
                        10,038     16,883        
                                       
HOPPY Holdings Corp.   Automotive and recreational vehicle aftermarket products   Senior secured loan ($13,988 par due 6/2016)   5.00% (Libor + 3.75%/M)     6/3/2011     13,988     13,289 (16)      
                                       
MWI Holdings, Inc.   Provider of highly engineered springs, fasteners, and other precision components   Senior secured loan ($29,914 par due 6/2017)   10.00% (Libor + 8.00%/Q)     6/15/2011     29,914     29,914 (16)      
                                       
NetShape Technologies, Inc.   Metal precision engineered components manufacturer   Senior secured revolving loan ($91 par due 2/2013)   3.96% (Libor + 3.75%/M)     4/1/2010     44     69        
        Senior secured revolving loan ($778 par due 2/2013)   4.33% (Libor + 3.75%/Q)     4/1/2010     374     587        
                                   
                        418     656        
                                       
Protective Industries, Inc.   Plastic protection products   Senior secured loan ($14 par due 5/2017)   6.25% (Base Rate + 3.00%/M)     5/23/2011     14     14 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($5,589 par due 5/2017)   5.75% (Libor + 4.25%/M)     5/23/2011     5,589     5,421 (16)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($720 par due 5/2018)   8.00% Cash, 7.25% PIK     5/23/2011     720     720        
        Preferred stock (2,379,361 shares)         5/23/2011     2,307     3,101        
                                   
                        8,630     9,256        
                                       
Saw Mill PCG Partners LLC   Metal precision engineered components   Common units (1,000 units)         1/30/2007     1,000            
                                       
Sigma International Group, Inc.(7)   Water treatment parts   Junior secured loan ($4,048 par due 4/2014)   10.00% (Libor + 3.50% Cash, 5.00% PIK /A)     7/8/2011     4,048     3,036 (16)      
                                       
WP CPP Holdings, LLC   Precision engineered castings   Senior secured loan ($20,822 par due 10/2017)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/M)     10/11/2011     20,720     20,406 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($50,000 par due 10/2017)   8.50% (Libor + 7.00%/M)     10/11/2011     49,745     49,000 (2)(16)      

F-36


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
                                   
                        70,465     69,406        
                                   
                        138,501     142,440     4.53 %
                                   
                                       
Services—Other                                      
The Dwyer Group(5)   Operator of multiple franchise concepts primarily related to home maintenance or repairs   Senior subordinated loan ($17,100 par due 12/2016)   14.50%     12/22/2010     17,100     17,100        
        Series A preferred units (13,292,377 units)   8.00% PIK     12/22/2010     14,413     17,011        
                                   
                        31,513     34,111        
                                       
Wash Multifamily Laundry Systems, LLC (fka Web Services Company, LLC)   Laundry service and equipment provider   Senior secured loan ($4,850 par due 8/2014)   7.00% (Base Rate + 3.75%/Q)     6/15/2009     4,723     4,850 (3)(16)      
        Junior secured loan ($36,900 par due 8/2015)   10.88% (Libor + 9.38%/Q)     1/25/2011     36,900     36,900 (16)      
        Junior secured loan ($50,000 par due 8/2015)   10.88% (Libor + 9.38%/Q)     1/25/2011     50,000     50,000 (2)(16)      
        Junior secured loan ($3,100 par due 8/2015)   10.88% (Libor + 9.38%/Q)     1/25/2011     3,100     3,100 (3)(16)      
                                   
                        94,723     94,850        
                                   
                        126,236     128,961     4.10 %
                                   
                                       
Telecommunications                                      
American Broadband Communications, LLC, American Broadband Holding Company and Cameron Holdings of NC, Inc.   Broadband communication services   Senior secured loan ($8,754 par due 9/2013)   7.50% (Libor + 5.50%/Q)     9/1/2010     8,754     8,754 (3)(16)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($10,529 par due 11/2014)   12.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK     11/7/2007     10,529     10,529        
        Senior subordinated loan ($22,150 par due 11/2014)   12.00% Cash, 4.00% PIK     9/1/2010     22,150     22,150        
        Senior subordinated loan ($33,429 par due 11/2014)   12.00% Cash, 2.00% PIK     2/8/2008     33,429     33,429 (2)      
        Warrants to purchase up to 378 shares         11/7/2007         6,286        
        Warrants to purchase up to 200 shares         9/1/2010         3,326        
                                   
                        74,862     84,474        
                                       
Dialog Telecom LLC   Broadband communication services   Senior secured loan ($16,412 par due 12/2012)   12.08% (Libor + 7.50% Cash, 4.00% PIK /Q)     6/20/2011     16,412     16,412 (16)      
                                       
Startec Equity, LLC(6)   Communication services   Member interest         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        91,274     100,886     3.21 %
                                   
                                       
Grocery                                      
Grocery Outlet Inc.   Value grocery retailer   Senior secured revolving loan ($3,100 par due 12/2017)   11.25% (Base Rate + 8.00%/Q)     12/15/2011     3,100     3,100 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($91,500 par due 12/2017)   10.50% (Libor + 9.00%/Q)     12/15/2011     91,500     91,500 (16)      
                                   
                        94,600     94,600        
                                   
                        94,600     94,600     3.01 %
                                   
                                       
Retail                                      
Direct Buy Holdings, Inc. and Direct Buy Investors, LP(5)   Membership based buying club franchisor and operator   Limited partnership interest (66,667 shares)         4/1/2010     2,594            
        Limited partnership interest (83,333 shares)         11/30/2007     8,333            
                                   

F-37


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
                        10,927            
                                       
Fulton Holdings Corp.   Airport restaurant operator   Senior secured loan ($40,000 par due 5/2016)   12.50%     5/28/2010     40,000     40,000 (2)(11)      
        Common stock (19,672 shares)         5/28/2010     1,967     1,618        
                                   
                        41,967     41,618        
                                       
Savers, Inc. and SAI Acquisition Corporation   For-profit thrift retailer   Common stock (1,218,481 shares)         8/8/2006     4,909     12,556        
                                       
Things Remembered Inc. and TRM Holdings Corporation   Personalized gifts retailer   Senior secured loan ($21,433 par due 3/2014)   9.00% (Base Rate + 7.00%/M)     9/28/2006     21,414     21,433 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($8,226 par due 3/2014)   9.00% (Base Rate + 7.00%/M)     9/28/2006     8,302     8,226 (3)(16)      
        Class B Preferred stock (73 shares)         3/19/2009         2,056        
        Preferred stock (80 shares)         9/28/2006     1,800     2,249        
        Common stock (800 shares)         9/28/2006     200     2,172        
        Warrants to purchase up to 859 shares of preferred stock         3/19/2009         2,324        
                                   
                        31,716     38,460        
                                   
                        89,519     92,634     2.94 %
                                   
                                       
Energy                                      
La Paloma Generating Company, LLC   Natural gas fired, combined cycle plant operator   Junior secured loan ($59,000 par due 8/2018)   10.25% (Libor + 8.75%/Q)     8/9/2011     57,775     56,050 (16)      
                                       
USG Nevada LLC   Geothermal, renewable energy, developer for electrical power and direct uses   Junior secured loan ($7,500 par due 6/2012)   3.94% (Libor + 3.50%/Q)     11/9/2011     7,500     7,500        
                                   
                        65,275     63,550     2.02 %
                                   
                                       
Automotive Services                                      
Driven Holdings, LLC   Automotive aftermarket car care franchisor   Preferred stock (247,500 units)         12/16/2011     2,475     2,475        
        Common stock (25,000 units)         12/16/2011     25     25        
                                   
                        2,500     2,500        
                                       
Stag-Parkway, Inc.(6)   Automotive aftermarket components supplier   Senior secured loan ($34,500 par due 12/2014)   12.50% (Libor + 11.00%/Q)     9/30/2010     34,500     34,500 (16)      
        Preferred stock (4,200 shares)   16.50% PIK     9/30/2010     2,368     4,200        
        Common stock (10,200 shares)         9/30/2010         14,807        
                                   
                        36,868     53,507        
                                   
                        39,368     56,007     1.78 %
                                   
                                       
Commercial Real Estate Finance                                      
10th Street, LLC(5)   Real estate holding company   Senior subordinated loan ($24,213 par due 11/2014)   8.93% Cash, 4.07% PIK     4/1/2010     24,213     24,213        
        Member interest (10.00% interest)         4/1/2010     594     529        
        Option (25,000 units)         4/1/2010     25     25        
                                   
                        24,832     24,767        
                                       
Allied Capital REIT, Inc.(6)   Real estate investment trust   Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010     50     50        
        Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010     325     639        
                                   
                        375     689        
                                       
American Commercial Coatings, Inc.   Real estate property   Commercial mortgage loan ($2,000 par due 12/2025)         4/1/2010     1,611     1,967 (15)      
                                     

F-38


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Aquila Binks Forest Development, LLC   Real estate developer   Commercial mortgage loan ($13,477 par due 12/2014)         4/1/2010     11,900     4,013 (15)      
        Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        11,900     4,013        
                                       
Cleveland East Equity, LLC   Hotel operator   Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010     1,026     2,507        
                                       
Commons R-3, LLC   Real estate developer   Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010                
                                       
Crescent Hotels & Resorts, LLC and affiliates(6)   Hotel operator   Senior secured loan ($433 par due 6/2010)   10.00%     4/1/2010     433     444        
        Senior subordinated loan ($9,071 par due 1/2012)         4/1/2010     1,475     138 (15)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($9,399 par due 6/2017)         4/1/2010     2,410     241 (15)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($10,967 par due 9/2012)         4/1/2010     2,051     202 (15)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($261 par due 3/2013)         4/1/2010     263     9 (15)      
        Senior subordinated loan ($2,236 par due 9/2011)         4/1/2010         (15)      
        Preferred equity interest         4/1/2010         39        
        Common equity interest         4/1/2010     35            
                                   
                        6,667     1,073        
                                       
Hot Light Brands, Inc.(6)   Real estate holding company   Senior secured loan ($35,239 par due 2/2011)         4/1/2010     3,945     3,692 (15)      
        Common stock (93,500 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        3,945     3,692        
                                       
NPH, Inc.   Hotel property   Real estate equity interests         4/1/2010     5,291     7,959        
                                   
                        55,647     46,667     1.48 %
                                   
                                       
Food and Beverage                                      
Apple & Eve, LLC and US Juice Partners, LLC(5)   Juice manufacturer   Senior secured revolving loan ($2,000 par due 10/2013)   12.00% (Libor + 9.00%/M)     10/5/2007     2,000     2,000 (16)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($2,500 par due 10/2013)   12.00% (Base Rate + 8.00%/Q)     10/5/2007     2,500     2,500 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($13,325 par due 10/2013)   12.00% (Libor + 9.00%/M)     10/5/2007     13,325     13,325 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($14,019 par due 10/2013)   12.00% (Libor + 9.00%/M)     10/5/2007     14,019     14,019 (3)(16)      
        Senior units (50,000 units)         10/5/2007     5,000     3,326        
                                   
                        36,844     35,170        
                                       
Charter Baking Company, Inc.   Baked goods manufacturer   Senior subordinated loan ($7,615 par due 2/2013)   16.00% PIK     2/6/2008     7,615     7,615        
        Preferred stock (6,258 shares)         9/1/2006     2,500     1,519        
                                   
                        10,115     9,134        
                                       
Distant Lands Trading Co.   Coffee manufacturer   Class A common stock (1,294 shares)         4/1/2010     980     568        
        Class A-1 common stock (2,157 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        980     568        
                                   
                        47,939     44,872     1.43 %
                                   
                                       
Consumer Products—Durable                                      
Bushnell Inc.   Sports optics manufacturer   Junior secured loan ($41,325 par due 2/2014)   7.08% (Libor + 6.50%/Q)     4/1/2010     33,467     37,192        
                                   
                        33,467     37,192     1.18 %
                                   
                                       
Transportation                                      
PODS Funding Corp.   Storage and warehousing   Junior subordinated loan ($37,020 par due 5/2017)   10.50% Cash, 5.00% PIK     11/29/2011     37,020     37,020        

F-39


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
                                       
United Road Towing, Inc.   Towing company   Warrants to purchase up to 607 shares         4/1/2010                
                                   
                        37,020     37,020     1.18 %
                                   
                                       
Environmental Services                                      
AWTP, LLC(6)   Water treatment services   Junior secured loan ($4,109 par due 6/2015)   5.00% Cash, 5.00% PIK     4/18/2011     4,109     4,109        
        Junior secured loan ($896 par due 6/2015)   15.00% PIK     4/18/2011     896     623        
        Junior secured loan ($4,518 par due 6/2015)   15.00% PIK     4/18/2011     4,518     3,142 (3)      
        Membership interests (90% interest)         4/18/2011                
                                   
                        9,523     7,874        
                                       
RE Community Holdings II, Inc.and Pegasus Community Energy, LLC.   Operator of municipal recycling facilities   Preferred stock (1,000 shares)   12.50% PIK     3/1/2011     8,311     8,283        
                                       
Waste Pro USA, Inc   Waste management services   Preferred Class A common equity (611,615 shares)         11/9/2006     12,263     20,540        
                                   
                        30,097     36,697     1.17 %
                                   
                                       
Oil and Gas                                      
Geotrace Technologies, Inc.   Reservoir processing, and development   Warrants to purchase up to 69,978 shares of common stock         4/1/2010     88            
        Warrants to purchase up to 210,453 shares of preferred stock         4/1/2010     2,805     172        
                                   
                        2,893     172        
                                       
UL Holding Co., LLC   Petroleum product manufacturer   Junior secured loan ($2,098 par due 12/2012)   9.31% (Libor + 8.88%/Q)     12/24/2007     2,098     2,098        
        Junior secured loan ($4,073 par due 12/2012)   14.00%     12/24/2007     4,073     4,073        
        Junior secured loan ($2,000 par due 12/2012)   9.45% (Libor + 8.88%/Q)     6/17/2011     2,000     2,000        
        Junior secured loan ($5,000 par due 12/2012)   15.00%     8/13/2010     5,000     5,000        
        Junior secured loan ($2,926 par due 12/2012)   14.00%     12/24/2007     2,926     2,926 (2)      
        Junior secured loan ($835 par due 12/2012)   9.31% (Libor + 8.88%/Q)     12/24/2007     835     835 (3)      
        Junior secured loan ($1,801 par due 12/2012)   14.00%     12/24/2007     1,801     1,801 (3)      
        Junior secured loan ($10,728 par due 12/2012)   9.32% (Libor + 8.88%/Q)     12/24/2007     10,728     10,728 (3)      
        Class A common units (8,982 units)         6/17/2011     90     46        
        Class B-4 common units (50,000 units)         4/25/2008     500     255        
        Class B-5 common units (499,000 units)         6/17/2011     4,990     2,541        
        Class C common units (549,491 units)         4/25/2008         2,798        
                                   
                        35,041     35,101        
                                   
                        37,934     35,273     1.12 %
                                   
                                       

F-40


Company(1)
  Business Description   Investment   Interest(4)(10)   Acquisition
Date
  Amortized
Cost
  Fair
Value
  Percentage
of Net
Assets
 
Chemicals, Plastic and Rubber                                      
Emerald Performance Materials, LLC   Polymers and performance materials manufacturer   Senior secured loan ($3,603 par due 11/2013)   13.00% Cash, 3.00% PIK     5/22/2006     3,603     3,603        
        Senior secured loan ($9,967 par due 11/2013)   10.25% (Base Rate + 3.50%/M)     6/29/2011     9,967     9,967 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($6,639 par due 11/2013)   10.00% (Libor + 6.00%/M)     6/29/2011     6,639     6,639 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($5,246 par due 11/2013)   13.00% Cash, 3.00% PIK     5/22/2006     5,246     5,246 (2)      
        Senior secured loan ($8,227 par due 11/2013)   8.25% (Libor + 4.25%/M)     5/22/2006     8,227     8,227 (3)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($915 par due 11/2013)   10.25% (Base Rate + 3.50%/M)     6/29/2011     915     915 (3)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($610 par due 11/2013)   10.00% (Libor + 6.00%/M)     6/29/2011     610     610 (3)(16)      
                                   
                        35,207     35,207        
                                   
                        35,207     35,207     1.12 %
                                   
                                       
Printing, Publishing and Media                                      
EarthColor, Inc.(6)   Printing management services   Common stock (89,435 shares)         4/1/2010                
                                       
LVCG Holdings LLC(6)   Commercial printer   Membership interests (56.53% interest)         10/12/2007     6,600            
                                       
National Print Group, Inc.   Printing management services   Senior secured revolving loan ($1,141 par due 10/2013)   9.00% (Libor + 6.00%/M)     3/2/2006     1,141     1,027 (16)      
        Senior secured revolving loan ($1,031 par due 10/2013)   9.00% (Base Rate + 5.00%/M)     3/2/2006     1,031     928 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($20 par due 10/2013)   10.00% (Libor + 6.00% Cash, 1.00% PIK/Q)     3/2/2006     20     18 (16)      
        Senior secured loan ($7,520 par due 10/2013)   10.00% (Libor + 6.00% Cash, 1.00% PIK/Q)     3/2/2006     7,217     6,919 (3)(16)      
        Senior secured loan ($181 par due 10/2013)   10.00% (Base Rate + 5.00% Cash, 1.00% PIK/M)     3/2/2006     174     166 (3)(16)      
        Preferred stock (9,344 shares)         3/2/2006     2,000            
                                   
                        11,583     9,058        
                                       
The Teaching Company, LLC and The Teaching Company Holdings, Inc.   Education publications provider   Preferred stock (21,711 shares)         9/29/2006     2,171     5,339        
        Common stock (15,393 shares)         9/29/2006     3     13        
                                   
                        2,174     5,352        
                                   
                        20,357     14,410     0.46 %
                                   
                                       
Health Clubs                                      
Athletic Club Holdings, Inc.   Premier health club operator   Senior secured loan ($11,500 par due 10/2013)   4.80% (Libor + 4.50%/M)     10/11/2007     11,500     11,270 (3)(12)      
                                   
                        11,500     11,270     0.36 %
                                   
                                       
Wholesale Distribution                                      
BECO Holding Company, Inc.   Wholesale distributor of first response fire protection equipment and related parts   Common stock (25,000 shares)         7/30/2010     2,500     3,151        
                                   
                        2,500     3,151     0.10 %
                                   
                      $ 5,108,663   $ 5,094,506     161.87 %
                                   

(1)
Other than the Company's investments listed in footnote 6 below, the Company does not "Control" any of its portfolio companies, for purposes of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the "Investment Company Act"). In general, under the Investment Company Act, the Company would "Control" a portfolio company if it owned more than 25% of its outstanding voting securities (i.e., securities with the right to elect directors) and/or had the power to exercise control over the management or policies of such portfolio company. All of the Company's portfolio company investments, which as of December 31, 2011 represented 162% of the Company's net assets or 95% of the Company's total assets, are subject to legal restrictions on sales.

F-41



The investments not otherwise pledged as collateral for the Debt Securitization or the Revolving Funding Facility by the respective obligors thereunder are pledged as collateral by the Company and certain of its other subsidiaries for the Revolving Credit Facility (see Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements) (except for a limited number of exceptions as provided in the credit agreement governing the Revolving Credit Facility).

(2)
These assets are owned by the Company's consolidated subsidiary, Ares Capital CP, are pledged as collateral for the Revolving Funding Facility and, as a result, are not directly available to the creditors of the Company to satisfy any obligations of the Company other than Ares Capital CP's obligations under the Revolving Funding Facility (see Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements).

(3)
Pledged as collateral for the Debt Securitization.

(4)
Investments without an interest rate are non-income producing.

(5)
As defined in the Investment Company Act, the Company is deemed to be an "Affiliated Person" of a portfolio company because the Company owns 5% or more of the portfolio company's outstanding voting securities or the Company has the power to exercise control over the management or policies of such portfolio company (including through a management agreement). Transactions during the year ended December 31, 2011 in which the issuer was an Affiliated company (but not a portfolio company that the Company "Controls") are as follows:

Company
  Purchases   Redemptions
(cost)
  Sales
(cost)
  Interest
income
  Capital
structuring
service fees
  Dividend
Income
  Other
income
  Net realized
gains
(losses)
  Net
unrealized
gains (losses)
 

10th Street, LLC

  $   $   $   $ 3,096   $   $   $   $   $ (48 )

Apple & Eve, LLC and US Juice Partners, LLC

  $ 5,500   $ 3,918   $   $ 3,478   $   $   $ 35   $   $ (1,709 )

BB&T Capital Partners/Windsor Mezzanine Fund, LLC

  $   $ 2,640   $ 9,260   $   $   $   $   $ 3,902   $ (3,804 )

Carador, PLC

  $   $   $ 9,033   $   $   $ 160   $   $ (2,989 ) $ 3,700  

Campus Management Corp. and Campus Management Acquisition Corp.

  $ 571   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (3,308 )

CT Technologies Intermediate Holdings, Inc. and CT Technologies Holdings, LLC

  $   $ 75   $ 8,763   $ 943   $   $ 2,590   $   $ 1,561   $ (1,364 )

Direct Buy Holdings, Inc. and Direct Buy Investors, LP

  $ 38,800   $ 80,315   $ 40,695   $ 2,637   $   $   $   $ (17,661 ) $ (9,356 )

Driven Brands, Inc.

  $   $ 3,569   $ 4,939   $ 255   $   $   $   $ 4,510   $ (1,473 )

DSI Renal, Inc.

  $   $ 77,774   $ 19,684   $ 7,919   $   $   $ 33   $ 27,522   $ (21,565 )

The Dwyer Group

  $   $   $ 11,708   $ 3,479   $   $ 1,135   $   $   $ 2,598  

ELC Acquisition Corp., ELC Holdings Corporation, and Excelligence Learning Corporation

  $ 137,200   $ 135,661   $   $ 1,056   $   $ 203   $ 22   $   $ (1,046 )

Firstlight Financial Corporation

  $   $ 2,988   $   $ 681   $   $   $ 250   $ 12   $ 16,197  

Growing Family, Inc. and GFH Holdings, LLC

  $   $ 34   $ 10,296   $ 615   $   $   $ 13   $ (1,545 ) $ 5,991  

Industrial Container Services, LLC

  $ 3,304   $ 8,491   $ 1,800   $ 69   $   $   $ 109   $ 19,881   $ (13,403 )

Insight Pharmaceuticals Corporation

  $ 24,730   $ 56,080   $   $ 4,424   $ 730   $   $ 765   $   $ 4,944  

Investor Group Services, LLC

  $ 500   $ 500   $   $ 3   $   $ 206   $ 9   $   $ 295  

Multi-Ad Services, Inc.

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ 462  

Pillar Processing LLC and PHL Holding Co.

  $   $ 12,450   $   $ 1,584   $   $   $ 147   $   $ (12,628 )

Primis Marketing Group, Inc. and Primis Holdings, LLC

  $   $ 154   $ 14,068   $   $   $   $   $ (14,068 ) $ 14,120  

Regency Healthcare Group, LLC

  $   $   $ 2,007   $   $   $   $   $ 380   $ 335  

Soteria Imaging Services, LLC

  $   $ 1,419   $   $ 321   $   $   $   $ 72   $ 12  

VSS-Tranzact Holdings, LLC

  $ 867   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (6,275 )

Universal Environmental Services, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $  

Universal Trailer Corporation

  $   $   $ 7,930   $   $   $   $   $ (7,930 ) $ 7,930  
(6)
As defined in the Investment Company Act, the Company is deemed to be both an "Affiliated Person" and to "Control" this portfolio company because it owns more than 25% of the portfolio company's outstanding voting securities or it has the power to exercise control over the management or policies of such portfolio

F-42


Company
  Purchases   Redemptions
(cost)
  Sales
(cost)
  Interest
income
  Capital
structuring
service
fees
  Dividend
Income
  Other
income
  Net realized
gains
(losses)
  Net
unrealized
gains (losses)
 

AGILE Fund I, LLC

  $   $ 36   $   $   $   $ 10   $   $   $ (37 )

Allied Capital REIT, Inc.

  $ 325   $ 115   $   $   $   $   $   $ 585   $ (255 )

AllBridge Financial, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (1,379 )

Aviation Properties Corporation

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $  

AWTP, LLC

  $ 2,926   $   $   $ 751   $   $   $   $   $ (1,648 )

BenefitMall Holdings, Inc.

  $   $   $   $ 7,360   $   $   $ 500   $   $ 9,541  

Border Foods, Inc.

  $   $ 28,526   $ 34,818   $ 1,401   $   $   $   $ 5,174   $ 3,601  

Callidus Capital Corporation

  $ 6,000   $ 3,000   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (2,470 )

Ciena Capital LLC

  $   $   $   $ 3,549   $   $   $   $   $ (27,011 )

Citipostal, Inc.

  $ 2,850   $ 2,802   $   $ 7,356   $   $   $ 353   $   $ (10,960 )

Coverall North America, Inc.

  $   $ 30,907   $   $ 642   $   $   $   $ (12,334 ) $ 7,624  

Crescent Hotels & Resorts, LLC and affiliates

  $   $   $   $ 213   $   $   $   $   $ (2,666 )

EarthColor, Inc.

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $  

HCI Equity, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (263 )

HCP Acquisition Holdings, LLC

  $ 1,048   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (1,196 )

Hot Light Brands, Inc.

  $   $ 929   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ (8 )

Huddle House Inc.

  $   $   $   $ 3,123   $   $   $ 750   $   $ 2,129  

Industrial Air Tool, LP and affiliates

  $   $   $ 13,419   $   $   $ 1,170   $ 185   $ 581   $ (1,517 )

Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P.

  $ 9,419   $   $   $   $   $ 19,048   $   $   $ 48,943  

Ivy Hill Middle Market Credit Fund, Ltd.

  $   $   $   $ 4,879   $   $   $   $   $ 1,899  

Knightsbridge CLO 2007-1 Ltd.

  $   $   $ 14,852   $ 1,019   $   $   $   $ 3,724   $ 307  

Knightsbridge CLO 2008-1 Ltd.

  $   $ 36,996   $   $ 2,568   $   $   $   $ 1,254   $ 3,108  

LVCG Holdings, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $  

Making Memories Wholesale, Inc.

  $ 1,750   $ 345   $   $ 34   $   $   $ 2   $   $ (7,090 )

MVL Group, Inc.

  $   $   $   $ 8,452   $   $   $   $   $ (2,525 )

Orion Foods, LLC

  $ 3,300   $ 330   $   $ 10,265   $   $   $ 811   $   $ (6,832 )

Penn Detroit Diesel Allison, LLC

  $   $ 4,077   $ 15,993   $   $   $   $ 500   $ 18,388   $ (1,987 )

Reflexite Corporation

  $   $ 9,281   $ 27,435   $ 1,130   $   $   $ 39   $ 40,923   $ (3,088 )

Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC*

  $ 496,816   $   $   $ 118,420   $ 41,592   $   $ 13,307   $   $ 688  

Stag-Parkway, Inc.

  $   $   $   $ 4,372   $   $ 925   $ 249   $   $ 780  

Startec Equity, LLC

  $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $  

The Thymes, LLC

  $   $ 1,162   $   $   $   $ 490   $   $   $ 945  
(7)
Non-U.S. company or principal place of business outside the U.S. and as a result is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act. Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company's total assets.

(8)
Excepted from the definition of investment company under Section 3(c) of the Investment Company Act and as a result is not a qualifying asset under Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act. Under the Investment Company Act, the Company may not acquire any non-qualifying asset unless, at the time such acquisition is made, qualifying assets represent at least 70% of the Company's total assets.

(9)
In the first quarter of 2011, the Staff informally communicated to certain business development companies the Staff's belief that certain entities, which would be classified as an "investment company" under the Investment Company Act but for the exception from the definition of "investment company" set forth in Rule 3a-7 promulgated under the Investment Company Act, could not be treated as eligible portfolio companies (as defined in Section 2(a)(46) of the Investment Company Act). Subsequently, in August 2011 the Securities and Exchange Commission issued a Concept Release which states that "[a]s a general matter, the Commission presently does not believe that Rule 3a-7 issuers are the type of small, developing and financially troubled businesses in which Congress intended BDCs primarily to invest" and requested comment on whether or not a 3a-7 issuer should be considered an "eligible portfolio company". Ares Capital provided a comment letter in respect of the Concept Release and continues to believe that the language of Section 2(a)(46) of the Investment Company Act permits a business development company to treat as "eligible portfolio companies" entities that rely on the 3a-7 exception. However, given the current uncertainty in this area (including the language in the Concept Release) and subsequent discussions with the Staff, Ares Capital has, solely for purposes of calculating the composition of its portfolio pursuant to Section 55(a) of the Investment Company Act, identified these entities in the Company's schedule of investments as "non-qualifying assets" should the Staff ultimately disagree with Ares Capital's position.

(10)
Variable rate loans to the Company's portfolio companies bear interest at a rate that may be determined by reference to either LIBOR or an alternate base rate (commonly based on the Federal Funds Rate or the Prime Rate), at the borrower's option, which reset annually (A), semi-annually (S), quarterly (Q), bi-monthly (B), monthly (M) or daily (D). For each such loan, the Company has provided the interest rate in effect on the date presented.

(11)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 5.00% on $18 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(12)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 2.50% on $12 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out"

F-43


(13)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 4.00% on $45 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(14)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated interest rate of this security, the Company is entitled to receive an additional interest amount of 1.25% on $74 million aggregate principal amount of a "first out" tranche of the portfolio company's senior term debt previously syndicated by the Company into "first out" and "last out" tranches, whereby the "first out" tranche will have priority as to the "last out" tranche with respect to payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due thereunder.

(15)
Loan was on non-accrual status as of December 31, 2011.

(16)
Loan includes interest rate floor feature.

(17)
In addition to the interest earned based on the stated contractual interest rate of this security, the certificates entitle the holders thereof to receive a portion of the excess cash flow from the SSLP's loan portfolio, which may result in a return to the Company greater than the contractual stated interest rate.

   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-44



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

(in thousands, except per share data)

 
   
   
   
   
  Accumulated Net
Realized Loss
on Investments,
Foreign Currency
Transactions,
Extinguishment of
Debt and Other Assets
   
   
 
 
  Common Stock    
  Accumulated
Overdistributed
Net Investment
Income
   
   
 
 
  Capital in
Excess of
Par Value
  Net Unrealized
Gain (Loss) on
Investments
  Total
Stockholders'
Equity
 
 
  Shares   Amount  

Balance at December 31, 2009

    109,945   $ 110   $ 1,490,458   $ 3,143   $ (31,115 ) $ (204,708 ) $ 1,257,888  

Issuances of common stock in add-on offerings (net of offering and underwriting costs)

    34,458     34     457,815                 457,849  

Shares issued in connection with dividend reinvestment plan

    1,523     2     22,529                 22,531  

Issuance of common stock in the acquisition of Allied Capital Corporation

    58,493     58     872,669                 872,727  

Gain on the acquisition of Allied Capital Corporation

                    195,876         195,876  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations (excluding gain on the acquisition of Allied Capital Corporation)

                215,816     49,399     230,743     495,958  

Dividends declared ($1.40 per share)

                (252,296 )           (252,296 )

Tax reclassification of stockholders' equity in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles

            361,855     22,001     (383,856 )        
                               

Balance at December 31, 2010

    204,419   $ 204   $ 3,205,326   $ (11,336 ) $ (169,696 ) $ 26,035   $ 3,050,533  
                               

Shares issued in connection with dividend reinvestment plan

   
711
   
1
   
11,552
   
   
   
   
11,553
 

Issuances of the Convertible Unsecured Notes (See Note 5)

            54,716                 54,716  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

                282,403     77,242     (40,192 )   319,453  

Dividends declared ($1.41 per share)

                (288,990 )           (288,990 )

Tax reclassification of stockholders' equity in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles

            118,760     7,474     (126,234 )        
                               

Balance at December 31, 2011

    205,130   $ 205   $ 3,390,354   $ (10,449 ) $ (218,688 ) $ (14,157 ) $ 3,147,265  
                               

Issuances of common stock in add-on offerings (net of offering and underwriting costs)

   
42,297
   
43
   
679,938
   
   
   
   
679,981
 

Shares issued in connection with dividend reinvestment plan

    1,226     1     20,448                 20,449  

Issuances of the Convertible Unsecured Notes (See Note 5)

            9,967                 9,967  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

                348,861     44,056     115,261     508,178  

Dividends declared ($1.60 per share)

                (377,494 )           (377,494 )

Tax reclassification of stockholders' equity in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles

            16,810     11,172     (27,982 )        
                               

Balance at December 31, 2012

    248,653   $ 249   $ 4,117,517   $ (27,910 ) $ (202,614 ) $ 101,104   $ 3,988,346  
                               

   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-45



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

                   

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

  $ 508,178   $ 319,453   $ 691,834  

Adjustments to reconcile net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations:

                   

Gain on the acquisition of Allied Capital Corporation

            (195,876 )

Realized loss on extinguishment of debt

    2,678     19,318     1,961  

Realized gain on sale of other assets

            (5,882 )

Net realized gains on investments

    (46,734 )   (96,560 )   (45,478 )

Net unrealized (gains) losses on investments

    (115,261 )   40,192     (230,743 )

Net accretion of discount on investments

    (13,747 )   (15,894 )   (12,594 )

Increase in payment-in-kind interest and dividends

    (25,036 )   (30,070 )   (45,002 )

Collections of payment-in-kind interest and dividends

    21,465     55,814     32,668  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    13,140     13,145     8,824  

Accretion of discount on notes payable

    11,310     11,057     8,201  

Depreciation

    829     876     923  

Proceeds from sales and repayments of investments

    2,494,062     2,516,090     1,562,356  

Purchases of investments

    (3,160,021 )   (3,263,626 )   (1,559,819 )

Acquisition of Allied Capital Corporation, net of cash acquired

            (774,190 )

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                   

Interest receivable

    (9,920 )   (26,530 )   (4,076 )

Other assets

    19,042     2,440     12,547  

Management and incentive fees payable

    39,089     40,099     (14,098 )

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

    5,774     12,662     (93,484 )

Interest and facility fees payable

    4,220     4,620     5,437  
               

Net cash used in operating activities

    (250,932 )   (396,914 )   (656,491 )
               

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

                   

Net proceeds from issuances of common stock

    679,981         1,330,577  

Borrowings on debt

    3,212,458     2,458,067     1,737,264  

Repayments and repurchases of debt

    (3,091,531 )   (1,738,632 )   (2,154,884 )

Debt issuance costs

    (44,383 )   (25,341 )   (25,176 )

Dividends paid

    (357,332 )   (277,150 )   (229,765 )
               

Net cash provided by financing activities

    399,193     416,944     658,016  
               

CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

    148,261     20,030     1,525  

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD

    120,782     100,752     99,227  
               

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD

  $ 269,043   $ 120,782   $ 100,752  
               

Supplemental Information:

                   

Interest paid during the period

  $ 108,761   $ 87,421   $ 53,117  

Taxes, including excise tax, paid during the period

  $ 10,149   $ 9,112   $ 1,323  

Dividends declared during the period

  $ 377,494   $ 288,990   $ 252,296  

   

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-46



ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of December 31, 2012
(in thousands, except per share data, percentages and as otherwise indicated;
for example, with the words "million," "billion" or otherwise)

1.     ORGANIZATION

        Ares Capital Corporation (the "Company" or "ARCC") is a specialty finance company that is a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company incorporated in Maryland. The Company has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the "Investment Company Act"). The Company has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company, or a "RIC", under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and operates in a manner so as to qualify for the tax treatment applicable to RICs.

        On April 1, 2010, the Company consummated its acquisition of Allied Capital Corporation ("Allied Capital"), in an all stock merger where each existing share of common stock of Allied Capital was exchanged for 0.325 shares of the Company's common stock (the "Allied Acquisition"). The Allied Acquisition was valued at approximately $908 million as of April 1, 2010. In connection therewith, the Company issued approximately 58.5 million shares of its common stock to Allied Capital's then-existing stockholders (see Note 17).

        The Company's investment objective is to generate both current income and capital appreciation through debt and equity investments. The Company invests primarily in first lien senior secured loans (including "unitranche" loans, which are loans that combine both senior and mezzanine debt, generally in a first lien position), second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt, which in some cases includes an equity component. To a lesser extent, the Company also makes equity investments.

        The Company is externally managed by Ares Capital Management LLC ("Ares Capital Management" or the Company's "investment adviser"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management LLC ("Ares Management"), a global alternative asset manager and a Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") registered investment adviser. Ares Operations LLC ("Ares Operations" or the Company's "administrator"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management, provides the administrative services necessary for the Company to operate.

2.     SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

        The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles or ("GAAP"), and include the accounts of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries. The consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments and reclassifications that, in the opinion of management, are necessary for the fair presentation of the results of the operations and financial condition as of and for the periods presented. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

        Cash and cash equivalents include funds from time to time deposited with financial institutions and short-term, liquid investments in a money market fund. Cash and cash equivalents are carried at cost which approximates fair value.

F-47


        The Company places its cash and cash equivalents with financial institutions and, at times, cash held in money market accounts may exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limit.

        Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Realized gains or losses are measured by the difference between the net proceeds from the repayment or sale and the amortized cost basis of the investment without regard to unrealized gains or losses previously recognized, and include investments charged off during the period, net of recoveries. Unrealized gains or losses primarily reflect the change in investment values, including the reversal of previously recorded unrealized gains or losses when gains or losses are realized.

        Investments for which market quotations are readily available are typically valued at such market quotations. In order to validate market quotations, the Company looks at a number of factors to determine if the quotations are representative of fair value, including the source and nature of the quotations. Debt and equity securities that are not publicly traded or whose market prices are not readily available (i.e., substantially all of the Company's investments) are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Company's board of directors, based on, among other things, the input of the Company's investment adviser, audit committee and independent third-party valuation firms that have been engaged at the direction of the Company's board of directors to assist in the valuation of each portfolio investment without a readily available market quotation at least once during a trailing 12 month period (with certain de minimis exceptions) and under a valuation policy and a consistently applied valuation process. The valuation process is conducted at the end of each fiscal quarter, and a minimum of 50% of the Company's portfolio at fair value is subject to review by an independent valuation firm each quarter. In addition, the Company's independent accountants review the Company's valuation process as part of their overall integrated audit.

        As part of the valuation process, the Company may take into account the following types of factors, if relevant, in determining the fair value of the Company's investments: the enterprise value of a portfolio company (the entire value of the portfolio company to a market participant, including the sum of the values of debt and equity securities used to capitalize the enterprise at a point in time), the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company's ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, a comparison of the portfolio company's securities to any similar publicly traded securities, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments would trade in their principal markets and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, the Company considers the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate its valuation.

        Because there is not a readily available market value for most of the investments in its portfolio, the Company values substantially all of its portfolio investments at fair value as determined in good faith by its board of directors, as described herein. Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Company's investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of the Company's investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values that the Company may ultimately realize. Further, such investments are generally subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise are less liquid than publicly traded securities. If the Company was required to liquidate a portfolio investment in a forced or liquidation sale, the Company could realize significantly less than the value at which the Company has recorded it.

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        In addition, changes in the market environment and other events that may occur over the life of the investments may cause the gains or losses ultimately realized on these investments to be different than the unrealized gains or losses reflected in the valuations currently assigned.

        The Company's board of directors undertakes a multi-step valuation process each quarter, as described below:

        See Note 8 for more information on the Company's valuation process.

        Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis and includes the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Discounts from and premiums to par value on securities purchased are accreted/amortized into interest income over the life of the respective security using the effective yield method. The amortized cost of investments represents the original cost adjusted for the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, if any.

        Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when principal or interest payments are past due 30 days or more or when there is reasonable doubt that principal or interest will be collected in full. Accrued and unpaid interest is generally reversed when a loan is placed on non-accrual status. Interest payments received on non-accrual loans may be recognized as income or applied to principal depending upon management's judgment regarding collectability. Non-accrual loans are restored to accrual status when past due principal and interest is paid and, in management's judgment, are likely to remain current. The Company may make exceptions to this if the loan has sufficient collateral value and is in the process of collection.

        Dividend income on preferred equity securities is recorded as dividend income on an accrual basis to the extent that such amounts are payable by the portfolio company and are expected to be collected. Dividend income on common equity securities is recorded on the record date for private portfolio companies or on the ex-dividend date for publicly traded portfolio companies.

        The Company has loans in its portfolio that contain payment-in-kind ("PIK") provisions. The PIK interest, computed at the contractual rate specified in each loan agreement, is added to the principal balance of the loan and recorded as interest income. To maintain the Company's status as a RIC, this non-cash source of income must be paid out to stockholders in the form of dividends, even though the Company has not yet collected the cash.

F-49


        The Company's investment adviser seeks to provide assistance to its portfolio companies and in return the Company may receive fees for capital structuring services. These fees are generally only available to the Company as a result of the Company's underlying investments, are normally paid at the closing of the investments, are generally non-recurring and are recognized as revenue when earned upon closing of the investment. The services that the Company's investment adviser provides vary by investment, but generally include reviewing existing credit facilities, arranging bank financing, arranging equity financing, structuring financing from multiple lenders, structuring financing from multiple equity investors, restructuring existing loans, raising equity and debt capital, and providing general financial advice, which concludes upon closing of the investment. Any services of the above nature subsequent to the closing would generally generate a separate fee payable to the Company. In certain instances where the Company is invited to participate as a co-lender in a transaction and does not provide significant services in connection with the investment, a portion of loan fees paid to the Company in such situations will be deferred and amortized over the estimated life of the loan. The Company's investment adviser may also take a seat on the board of directors of a portfolio company, or observe the meetings of the board of directors without taking a formal seat.

        Other income includes fees for management and consulting services, loan guarantees, commitments, amendments and other services rendered by the Company to portfolio companies. Such fees are recognized as income when earned or the services are rendered.

        The Company's books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Any foreign currency amounts are translated into U.S. dollars on the following basis:

        Results of operations based on changes in foreign exchange rates are separately disclosed in the statement of operations, if any. Foreign security and currency translations may involve certain considerations and risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. companies and U.S. government securities. These risks include, but are not limited to, currency fluctuations and revaluations and future adverse political, social and economic developments, which could cause investments in foreign markets to be less liquid and prices more volatile than those of comparable U.S. companies or U.S. government securities.

        The Company's offering costs, excluding underwriters' fees, are charged against the proceeds from equity offerings when received.

        Debt issuance costs are amortized over the life of the related debt instrument using the straight line method, which closely approximates the effective yield method.

        The Company has elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code and operates in a manner so as to qualify for the tax treatment applicable to RICs. To qualify as a RIC, the Company must, among

F-50


other things, timely distribute to its stockholders at least 90% of its investment company taxable income, as defined by the Code, for each year. The Company, among other things, has made and intends to continue to make the requisite distributions to its stockholders, which will generally relieve the Company from U.S. federal income taxes.

        Depending on the level of taxable income earned in a tax year, the Company may choose to carry forward taxable income in excess of current year dividend distributions from such income into the next tax year and pay a 4% excise tax on such income, as required. To the extent that the Company determines that its estimated current year annual taxable income will be in excess of estimated current year dividend distributions, the Company accrues excise tax, if any, on estimated excess taxable income as such taxable income is earned.

        Certain of the Company's consolidated subsidiaries are also subject to U.S. federal and state income taxes.

        Dividends and distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The amount to be paid out as a dividend is determined by the Company's board of directors each quarter and is generally based upon the earnings estimated by management. Net realized capital gains, if any, are generally distributed, although the Company may decide to retain such capital gains for investment.

        The Company has adopted a dividend reinvestment plan that provides for reinvestment of any distributions the Company declares in cash on behalf of its stockholders, unless a stockholder elects to receive cash. As a result, if the Company's board of directors authorizes, and the Company declares, a cash dividend, then the Company's stockholders who have not "opted out" of the Company's dividend reinvestment plan will have their cash dividends automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Company's common stock, rather than receiving the cash dividend. The Company intends to use primarily newly issued shares to implement the dividend reinvestment plan (so long as the Company is trading at a premium to net asset value). If the Company's shares are trading at a significant enough discount to net asset value and the Company is otherwise permitted under applicable law to purchase such shares, the Company intends to purchase shares in the open market in connection with the Company's obligations under the dividend reinvestment plan. However, the Company reserves the right to issue new shares of the Company's common stock in connection with the Company's obligations under the dividend reinvestment plan even if the Company's shares are trading below net asset value.

        The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of actual and contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income or loss and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates include the valuation of investments.

3.     AGREEMENTS

        The Company is party to an investment advisory and management agreement (the "investment advisory and management agreement") with Ares Capital Management. Subject to the overall supervision of the Company's board of directors, Ares Capital Management provides investment advisory and management services to the Company. For providing these services, Ares Capital Management receives a fee from the Company consisting of two components—a base management fee and an incentive fee.

F-51


        The base management fee is calculated at an annual rate of 1.5% based on the average value of the Company's total assets (other than cash or cash equivalents but including assets purchased with borrowed funds) at the end of the two most recently completed calendar quarters. The base management fee is payable quarterly in arrears.

        The incentive fee has two parts. The first part is calculated and payable quarterly in arrears based on the Company's pre-incentive fee net investment income for the quarter. Pre-incentive fee net investment income means interest income, dividend income and any other income (including any other fees such as commitment, origination, structuring, diligence and consulting fees or other fees that the Company receives from portfolio companies but excluding fees for providing managerial assistance) accrued during the calendar quarter, minus operating expenses for the quarter (including the base management fee, any expenses payable under the administration agreement, and any interest expense and dividends paid on any outstanding preferred stock, but excluding the incentive fee). Pre-incentive fee net investment income includes, in the case of investments with a deferred interest feature such as market discount, debt instruments with PIK interest, preferred stock with PIK dividends and zero coupon securities, accrued income that the Company has not yet received in cash. The Company's investment adviser is not under any obligation to reimburse the Company for any part of the incentive fees it received that was based on accrued interest that the Company never actually received.

        Pre-incentive fee net investment income does not include any realized capital gains, realized capital losses, unrealized capital appreciation, unrealized capital depreciation or income tax expense related to realized gains. Because of the structure of the incentive fee, it is possible that the Company may pay an incentive fee in a quarter where the Company incurs a loss. For example, if the Company receives pre-incentive fee net investment income in excess of the hurdle rate (as defined below) for a quarter, the Company will pay the applicable incentive fee even if the Company has incurred a loss in that quarter due to realized and/or unrealized capital losses.

        Pre-incentive fee net investment income, expressed as a rate of return on the value of the Company's net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and before taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period) at the end of the immediately preceding calendar quarter, is compared to a fixed "hurdle rate" of 1.75% per quarter. If market credit spreads rise, the Company may be able to invest its funds in debt instruments that provide for a higher return, which may increase the Company's pre-incentive fee net investment income and make it easier for the Company's investment adviser to surpass the fixed hurdle rate and receive an incentive fee based on such net investment income. To the extent the Company has retained pre-incentive fee net investment income that has been used to calculate this part of the incentive fee, it is also included in the amount of the Company's total assets (other than cash and cash equivalents but including assets purchased with borrowed funds) used to calculate the 1.5% base management fee.

        The Company pays its investment adviser an incentive fee with respect to the Company's pre-incentive fee net investment income in each calendar quarter as follows:

F-52


        These calculations are adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases during the quarter.

        The second part of the incentive fee (the "Capital Gains Fee"), is determined and payable in arrears as of the end of each calendar year (or, upon termination of the investment advisory and management agreement, as of the termination date) and is calculated at the end of each applicable year by subtracting (a) the sum of the Company's cumulative aggregate realized capital losses and aggregate unrealized capital depreciation from (b) the Company's cumulative aggregate realized capital gains, in each case calculated from October 8, 2004 (the date the Company completed its initial public offering). Realized capital gains and losses include gains and losses on investments and foreign currencies, as well as gains and losses on extinguishment of debt and other assets. If such amount is positive at the end of such year, then the Capital Gains Fee for such year is equal to 20% of such amount, less the aggregate amount of Capital Gains Fees paid in all prior years. If such amount is negative, then there is no Capital Gains Fee for such year.

        The cumulative aggregate realized capital gains are calculated as the sum of the differences, if positive, between (a) the net sales price of each investment in the Company's portfolio when sold and (b) the accreted or amortized cost basis of such investment.

        The cumulative aggregate realized capital losses are calculated as the sum of the amounts by which (a) the net sales price of each investment in the Company's portfolio when sold is less than (b) the accreted or amortized cost basis of such investment.

        The aggregate unrealized capital depreciation is calculated as the sum of the differences, if negative, between (a) the valuation of each investment in the Company's portfolio as of the applicable Capital Gains Fee calculation date and (b) the accreted or amortized cost basis of such investment.

        Notwithstanding the foregoing, as a result of an amendment to the capital gains portion of the incentive fee under the investment advisory and management agreement that was adopted on June 6, 2011, if the Company is required by GAAP to record an investment at its fair value as of the time of acquisition instead of at the actual amount paid for such investment by the Company (including, for example, as a result of the application of the acquisition method of accounting), then solely for the purposes of calculating the Capital Gains Fee, the "accreted or amortized cost basis" of an investment shall be an amount (the "Contractual Cost Basis") equal to (1) (x) the actual amount paid by the Company for such investment plus (y) any amounts recorded in the Company's financial statements as required by GAAP that are attributable to the accretion of such investment plus (z) any other adjustments made to the cost basis included in the Company's financial statements, including PIK interest or additional amounts funded (net of repayments) minus (2) any amounts recorded in the Company's financial statements as required by GAAP that are attributable to the amortization of such investment, whether such calculated Contractual Cost Basis is higher or lower than the fair value of such investment (as determined in accordance with GAAP) at the time of acquisition.

        The Company defers cash payment of any incentive fee otherwise earned by the Company's investment adviser if during the most recent four full calendar quarter period ending on or prior to the date such payment is to be made the sum of (a) the aggregate distributions to the Company's stockholders and (b) the change in net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and before taking into account any incentive fees payable during the period) is less than 7.0% of the Company's net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness) at the beginning of such period. Any deferred incentive fees are carried over for payment in subsequent calculation periods to the extent such payment is payable under the investment advisory and management agreement.

        The Capital Gains Fee payable to the Company's investment adviser as calculated under the investment advisory and management agreement (as described above) for the year ended December 31,

F-53


2012 was $11,523. For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no Capital Gains Fees payable under the investment advisory and management agreement. However, in accordance with GAAP, the Company has cumulatively accrued a capital gains incentive fee of $80,820 as of December 31, 2012. GAAP requires that the capital gains incentive fee accrual consider the cumulative aggregate unrealized capital appreciation in the calculation, as a capital gains incentive fee would be payable if such unrealized capital appreciation were realized, even though such unrealized capital appreciation is not permitted to be considered in calculating the fee actually payable under the investment advisory and management agreement. This GAAP accrual is calculated using the aggregate cumulative realized capital gains and losses and aggregate cumulative unrealized capital depreciation included in the calculation of the capital gains fee plus the aggregate cumulative unrealized capital appreciation. If such amount is positive at the end of a period, then GAAP requires the Company to record a capital gains fee equal to 20% of such cumulative amount, less the aggregate amount of actual capital gains fees paid or capital gains incentive fees accrued under GAAP in all prior periods. The resulting accrual for any capital gains incentive fee under GAAP in a given period may result in an additional expense if such cumulative amount is greater than in the prior period or a reversal of previously recorded expense if such cumulative amount is less than in the prior period. If such cumulative amount is negative, then there is no accrual. There can be no assurance that such unrealized capital appreciation will be realized in the future.

        For the year ended December 31, 2012, base management fees were $86,228, incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income were $95,182 and incentive fees related to capital gains accrued in accordance with GAAP were $31,863. As of December 31, 2012, $131,585 was included in "management and incentive fees payable" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet, of which $62,288 is currently payable to the Company's investment adviser under the investment advisory and management agreement.

        For the year ended December 31, 2011, base management fees were $71,603, incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income were $79,029 and incentive fees related to capital gains accrual in accordance with GAAP were $33,348. For the year ended December 31, 2010, base management fees were $51,998, incentive fees related to pre-incentive fee net investment income were $61,286 and incentive fees related to capital gains accrued in accordance with GAAP were $15,609.

        The Company is party to an administration agreement, referred to herein as the "administration agreement", with its administrator, Ares Operations. Pursuant to the administration agreement, Ares Operations furnishes the Company with office equipment and clerical, bookkeeping and record keeping services at the Company's office facilities. Under the administration agreement, Ares Operations also performs, or oversees the performance of, the Company's required administrative services, which include, among other things, providing assistance in accounting, legal, compliance, operations, technology, and investor relations, being responsible for the financial records that the Company is required to maintain and preparing reports to its stockholders and reports filed with the SEC. In addition, Ares Operations assists the Company in determining and publishing its net asset value, assists the Company in providing managerial assistance to its portfolio companies, oversees the preparation and filing of the Company's tax returns and the printing and dissemination of reports to its stockholders, and generally oversees the payment of its expenses and the performance of administrative and professional services rendered to the Company by others. Payments under the Company's administration agreement are equal to an amount based upon its allocable portion of Ares Operations' overhead and other expenses (including travel expenses) incurred by Ares Operations in performing its obligations under the administration agreement, including the Company's allocable portion of the compensation of certain of its officers (including the Company's chief compliance officer, chief financial officer, general counsel, treasurer and assistant treasurer) and their respective staffs. The administration

F-54


agreement may be terminated by either party without penalty upon 60 days' written notice to the other party.

        For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company incurred $9,322, $9,563 and $10,979, respectively, in administrative fees. As of December 31, 2012, $2,516 of these fees were unpaid and included in "accounts payable and other liabilities" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

4.     INVESTMENTS

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company's investments consisted of the following:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
 
  Amortized Cost(1)   Fair Value   Amortized Cost(1)   Fair Value  

Senior term debt

  $ 3,587,770   $ 3,555,144   $ 2,691,018   $ 2,671,114  

Subordinated Certificates of the SSLP(2)

    1,237,887     1,263,644     1,034,254     1,059,178  

Senior subordinated debt

    321,331     259,820     592,618     515,014  

Collateralized loan obligations

            55,515     54,000  

Preferred equity securities

    238,837     250,118     251,192     251,064  

Other equity securities

    430,380     584,005     463,861     527,002  

Commercial real estate

    7,246     11,824     20,205     17,134  
                   

Total

  $ 5,823,451   $ 5,924,555   $ 5,108,663   $ 5,094,506  
                   

(1)
The amortized cost represents the original cost adjusted for the accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, if any.

(2)
The proceeds from these certificates were applied to co-investments with GE Global Sponsor Finance LLC and General Electric Capital Corporation to fund first lien senior secured loans to 36 and 32 different borrowers as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

F-55


        The industrial and geographic compositions of the Company's portfolio at fair value at December 31, 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  

Industry

             

Investment Funds and Vehicles(1)

    21.7 %   23.6 %

Healthcare Services

    12.9     13.4  

Education

    7.8     11.2  

Financial Services

    7.3     6.4  

Restaurants and Food Services

    7.1     6.8  

Other Services

    6.7     2.5  

Consumer Products

    6.6     5.4  

Business Services

    6.4     6.6  

Containers and Packaging

    5.1     4.5  

Energy

    3.7     1.3  

Automotive Services

    3.4     1.1  

Manufacturing

    2.4     2.8  

Aerospace and Defense

    2.0     3.6  

Telecommunications

    1.6     2.0  

Oil and Gas

    1.0     0.7  

Other

    4.3     8.1  
           

Total

    100.0 %   100.0 %
           

(1)
Includes the Company's investment in the SSLP, which had made first lien senior secured loans to 36 and 32 different borrowers as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The portfolio companies in the SSLP are in industries similar to the companies in the Company's portfolio.

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  

Geographic Region

             

West

    49.1 %   48.4 %

Midwest

    19.2     14.5  

Southeast

    14.7     21.2  

Mid Atlantic

    12.8     12.8  

Northeast

    2.3     1.7  

International

    1.9     1.4  
           

Total

    100.0 %   100.0 %
           

        As of December 31, 2012, 2.3% of total investments at amortized cost (or 0.6% of total investments at fair value) were on non-accrual status. As of December 31, 2011, 3.3% of total investments at amortized cost (or 0.9% of total investments at fair value) were on non-accrual status.

        The Company co-invests in first lien senior secured loans of middle market companies with GE Global Sponsor Finance LLC and General Electric Capital Corporation (together, "GE") through an unconsolidated Delaware limited liability company, the Senior Secured Loan Fund LLC (d/b/a the "Senior Secured Loan Program") or the "SSLP". The SSLP is capitalized as transactions are completed

F-56


and all portfolio decisions and generally all other decisions in respect of the SSLP must be approved by an investment committee of the SSLP consisting of representatives of the Company and GE (with approval from a representative of each required). The Company provides capital to the SSLP in the form of subordinated certificates (the "SSLP Certificates").

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the SSLP had available capital of $9.0 billion and $7.7 billion, respectively, of which approximately $6.3 billion and $5.0 billion in aggregate principal amount was funded at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had agreed to make available to the SSLP approximately $1.8 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively, of which approximately $1.2 billion and $1.0 billion was funded, respectively. Investment of any unfunded amount must still be approved by the investment committee of the SSLP as described above.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the SSLP had total assets of $6.3 billion and $5.1 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, GE's investment in the SSLP consisted of senior notes of $4.8 billion and $3.8 billion, respectively, and SSLP Certificates of $178 million and $149 million, respectively. The SSLP Certificates are junior in right of payment to the senior notes held by GE. The Company owned 87.5% of the outstanding SSLP Certificates as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and GE owned the remainder. The SSLP's portfolio consisted of first lien senior secured loans to 36 and 32 different borrowers as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the portfolio was comprised of all first lien senior secured loans to U.S. middle-market companies and none of these loans was on non-accrual status. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the largest loan to a single borrower in the SSLP's portfolio in aggregate principal amount was $330.0 million and $300.0 million, respectively, and the five largest loans to borrowers in the SSLP each totaled $1.4 billion. The portfolio companies in the SSLP are in industries similar to the companies in the Company's portfolio.

        The amortized cost and fair value of the SSLP Certificates held by the Company was $1.2 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2012, and $1.0 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2011. The SSLP Certificates pay a weighted average coupon of approximately LIBOR plus 8.0% and also entitle the holders thereof to receive a portion of the excess cash flow from the loan portfolio, which may result in a return to the holders of the SSLP Certificates that is greater than the contractual coupon. The Company's yield on its investment in the SSLP at fair value was 15.4% and 15.7% as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 the Company earned interest income of $184.7 million, $118.4 million and $50.0 million, respectively, from its investment in the SSLP Certificates. The Company is also entitled to certain fees in connection with the SSLP.

        Effective March 30, 2012, Ares Capital Management assumed from the Company the role of co-manager of the SSLP. However, this change did not impact the Company's economics in respect of its participation in the SSLP and Ares Capital Management does not receive any remuneration in respect of its co-manager role.

5.     DEBT

        In accordance with the Investment Company Act, with certain limited exceptions, the Company is only allowed to borrow amounts such that its asset coverage, as calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act, is at least 200% after such borrowing. As of December 31, 2012 the Company's asset coverage was 282%.

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        The Company's outstanding debt obligations as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
(in millions)
  Total
Aggregate
Principal
Amount
Committed/
Outstanding(1)
  Principal
Amount
Outstanding
  Carrying
Value
  Total
Aggregate
Principal
Amount
Committed/
Outstanding(1)
  Principal
Amount
Outstanding
  Carrying
Value
 

Revolving Credit Facility

  $ 900,000 (2) $   $   $ 810,000   $ 395,000   $ 395,000  

Revolving Funding Facility

    620,000 (3)   300,000     300,000     500,000     463,000     463,000  

SMBC Funding Facility

    400,000                      

Debt Securitization

                77,531     77,531     77,531  

February 2016 Convertible Notes

    575,000     575,000     548,521 (4)   575,000     575,000     541,152 (4)

June 2016 Convertible Notes

    230,000     230,000     218,761 (4)   230,000     230,000     215,931 (4)

2017 Convertible Notes

    162,500     162,500     158,312 (4)            

2018 Convertible Notes

    270,000     270,000     262,829 (4)            

February 2022 Notes

    143,750     143,750     143,750              

October 2022 Notes

    182,500     182,500     182,500              

2040 Notes

    200,000     200,000     200,000     200,000     200,000     200,000  

2047 Notes

    230,000     230,000     181,199 (5)   230,000     230,000     180,988 (5)
                           

Total

  $ 3,913,750   $ 2,293,750   $ 2,195,872   $ 2,622,531   $ 2,170,531   $ 2,073,602  
                           

(1)
Subject to borrowing base and leverage restrictions. Represents the total aggregate amount committed or outstanding, as applicable, under such instrument.

(2)
Provides for a feature that allows the Company, under certain circumstances, to increase the size of the Revolving Credit Facility to a maximum of $1,350,000 as of December 31, 2012.

(3)
Provides for a feature that allows the Company and Ares Capital CP, under certain circumstances, to increase the size of the Revolving Funding Facility to a maximum of $865,000 as of December 31, 2012.

(4)
Represents the aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Convertible Unsecured Notes (as defined below) less the unaccreted discount initially recorded upon issuance of the Convertible Unsecured Notes. The total unaccreted discount for the February 2016 Convertible Notes, the June 2016 Convertible Notes, the 2017 Convertible Notes and the 2018 Convertible Notes was $26,479, $11,239, $4,188 and $7,171 respectively, as of December 31, 2012. The total unaccreted discount for the February 2016 Convertible Notes and the June 2016 Convertible Notes was $33,848 and $14,069, respectively, at December 31, 2011.

(5)
Represents the aggregate principal amount outstanding less the unaccreted purchased discount. The total unaccreted purchased discount on the 2047 Notes was $48,801 and $49,012 as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

        The weighted average stated interest rate and weighted average maturity, both on aggregate principal amount, of all the Company's outstanding debt as of December 31, 2012 were 5.5% and 9.8 years, respectively, and as of December 31, 2011 were 4.8% and 9.3 years, respectively.

        In December 2005, the Company entered into a senior secured revolving credit facility (as amended and restated, the "Revolving Credit Facility"), which as of December 31, 2012, allowed the Company to borrow up to $900,000 at any one time outstanding. In May 2012, the Company amended and restated the Revolving Credit Facility to, among other things, increase the size of the facility from $810,000 to $900,000, extend the expiration of the revolving period from January 22, 2013 to May 4,

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2015 and extend the stated maturity date from January 22, 2013 to May 4, 2016. The Revolving Credit Facility also includes a feature that allows, under certain circumstances, for an increase in the size of the facility to a maximum of $1,350,000. The Revolving Credit Facility generally requires payments of interest at the end of each LIBOR interest period, but no less frequently than quarterly, on LIBOR based loans, and monthly payments of interest on other loans. From the end of the revolving period to the stated maturity date, the Company is required to repay outstanding principal amounts under the Revolving Credit Facility on a monthly basis in an amount equal to 1/12th of the outstanding principal amount at the end of the revolving period.

        Under the Revolving Credit Facility, the Company is required to comply with various covenants, reporting requirements and other customary requirements for similar revolving credit facilities, including, without limitation, covenants related to: (a) limitations on the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens, (b) limitations on certain investments, (c) limitations on certain restricted payments, (d) maintaining a certain minimum stockholders' equity, (e) maintaining a ratio of total assets (less total liabilities other than indebtedness) to total indebtedness of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries of not less than 2.0:1.0, (f) limitations on pledging certain unencumbered assets, and (g) limitations on the creation or existence of agreements that prohibit liens on certain properties of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. These covenants are subject to important limitations and exceptions that are described in the documents governing the Revolving Credit Facility. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility (and the incurrence of certain other permitted debt) are also subject to compliance with a borrowing base that applies different advance rates to different types of assets in the Company's portfolio that are pledged as collateral. As of December 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the Revolving Credit Facility.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, there was $0 and $395,000 outstanding, respectively, under the Revolving Credit Facility. The Revolving Credit Facility also provides for a sub-limit for the issuance of letters of credit for up to an aggregate amount of $125,000. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had $43,667 and $47,249, respectively, in standby letters of credit issued through the Revolving Credit Facility. The amount available for borrowing under the Revolving Credit Facility is reduced by any standby letters of credit issued. As of December 31, 2012, there was $856,333 available for borrowing (net of standby letters of credit issued) under the Revolving Credit Facility.

        After May 4, 2012, subject to certain exceptions, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Credit Facility is based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.25% or a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Credit Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.25%. From January 22, 2010 through May 4, 2012, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Credit Facility was based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of between 2.50% and 4.00% or on a "base rate" plus an applicable spread of between 1.50% and 3.00%, in each case, based on a pricing grid depending upon the Company's credit ratings. Prior to an amendment and restatement of the Revolving Credit Facility on January 22, 2010, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Credit Facility was based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 1.00% or a "base rate". As of December 31, 2012, the one, two, three and six month LIBOR was 0.21%, 0.25%, 0.31% and 0.51%, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, the one, two, three and six month LIBOR was 0.30%, 0.43%, 0.58% and 0.81%, respectively. In addition to the stated interest expense on the Revolving Credit Facility, after May 4, 2012, the Company is required to pay a commitment fee of 0.375% per annum on any unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility and a letter of credit fee of 2.50% per annum on letters of credit issued, both of which are payable quarterly. Prior to May 4, 2012, the commitment fee was 0.50%, and the letter of credit fee was 3.25%.

        The Revolving Credit Facility is secured by certain assets in the Company's portfolio and excludes investments held by Ares Capital CP under the Revolving Funding Facility and those held by ACJB under the SMBC Funding Facility and prior to the termination of the Debt Securitization, those

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previously held as part of the Debt Securitization, each as discussed below, and certain other investments.

        The components of interest and credit facility fees expense, cash paid for interest expense, average interest rates (i.e., rate in effect plus the spread) and average outstanding balances for the Revolving Credit Facility were as follows:

 
  For the Year Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

Stated interest expense

  $ 3,523   $ 5,541   $ 10,370  

Facility fees

    4,260     3,864     3,158  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    4,207     6,510     6,635  
               

Total interest and credit facility fees expense

  $ 11,990   $ 15,915   $ 20,163  
               

Cash paid for interest expense

  $ 4,128   $ 5,278   $ 10,301  

Average stated interest rate

    2.82 %   3.40 %   4.25 %

Average outstanding balance

  $ 124,855   $ 163,216   $ 244,254  

        In October 2004, the Company established through its consolidated subsidiary, Ares Capital CP Funding LLC ("Ares Capital CP"), a revolving funding facility (as amended, the "Revolving Funding Facility"), which as of December 31, 2012, allowed Ares Capital CP to borrow up to $620,000 at any one time outstanding. The Revolving Funding Facility is secured by all of the assets held by, and the membership interest in, Ares Capital CP. In June 2012, the Company and Ares Capital CP amended the Revolving Funding Facility to, among other things, (i) increase the size of the Revolving Funding Facility from $500,000 to $580,000, (ii) add a feature that allows, under certain circumstances, for an increase in the size of the facility to a maximum of $865,000, (iii) extend the reinvestment period from January 18, 2015 to April 18, 2015, and (iv) extend the stated maturity date from January 18, 2017 to April 18, 2017. In July 2012, the Company and Ares Capital CP received an increase in the commitments under the Revolving Funding Facility of $40,000, bringing the total commitments to $620,000.

        Amounts available to borrow under the Revolving Funding Facility are subject to a borrowing base that applies different advance rates to different types of assets held by Ares Capital CP. Ares Capital CP is also subject to limitations with respect to the loans securing the Revolving Funding Facility, including restrictions on sector concentrations, loan size, payment frequency and status, collateral interests, loans with fixed rates and loans with certain investment ratings, as well as restrictions on portfolio company leverage, which may also affect the borrowing base and therefore amounts available to borrow. The Company and Ares Capital CP are also required to comply with various covenants, reporting requirements and other customary requirements for similar facilities. These covenants are subject to important limitations and exceptions that are described in the agreements governing the Revolving Funding Facility. As of December 31, 2012, the Company and Ares Capital CP were in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the Revolving Funding Facility.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, there was $300,000 and $463,000 outstanding, respectively, under the Revolving Funding Facility. After a January 18, 2012 amendment to the Revolving Funding Facility, and as of December 31, 2012, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Funding Facility was based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.50% or on a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Funding Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.50%. See Note 19 for subsequent events relating to the Revolving Funding Facility. From January 22, 2010 through January 18, 2012, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Funding Facility was based on LIBOR plus an applicable spread of between 2.25% and 3.75% or on a "base rate" plus an applicable spread of

F-60


between 1.25% to 2.75%, in each case, based on a pricing grid depending upon the Company's credit ratings. Prior to an amendment of the Revolving Funding Facility on January 22, 2010, the interest rate charged on the Revolving Funding Facility was based on the commercial paper rate plus 3.50%. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the interest rate in effect was based on one month LIBOR, which was 0.21% and 0.30%, respectively. Ares Capital CP is also required to pay a commitment fee of between 0.50% and 1.75% depending on the size of the unused portion of the Revolving Funding Facility.

        The components of interest and credit facility fees expense, cash paid for interest expense, average stated interest rates (i.e., rate in effect plus the spread) and average outstanding balances for the Revolving Funding Facility were as follows:

 
  For the Year Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

Stated interest expense

  $ 10,557   $ 7,380   $ 7,458  

Facility fees

    1,209     2,226     1,453  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    1,772     2,225     1,787  
               

Total interest and credit facility fees expense

  $ 13,538   $ 11,831   $ 10,698  
               

Cash paid for interest expense

  $ 11,979   $ 6,281   $ 7,224  

Average stated interest rate

    2.80 %   3.03 %   3.01 %

Average outstanding balance

  $ 377,098   $ 243,639   $ 247,490  

        In January 2012, the Company established through its consolidated subsidiary, Ares Capital JB Funding LLC ("ACJB"), a revolving funding facility (as amended, the "SMBC Funding Facility") with ACJB, as the borrower, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation ("SMBC"), as the administrative agent, collateral agent, and lender, which as of December 31, 2012 allowed ACJB to borrow up to $400,000 at any one time outstanding. In September 2012, the Company and ACJB amended the SMBC Funding Facility to, among other things, (i) increase the size of the SMBC Funding Facility from $200,000 to $400,000, (ii) extend the reinvestment period from January 20, 2015 to September 14, 2015 and (iii) extend the stated maturity date from January 20, 2020 to September 14, 2020. The reinvestment period and the stated maturity date are both subject to two one-year extensions by mutual agreement.

        Amounts available to borrow under the SMBC Funding Facility are subject to a borrowing base that applies an advance rate to assets held by ACJB. The Company and ACJB are also required to comply with various covenants, reporting requirements and other customary requirements for similar facilities. These covenants are subject to important limitations and exceptions that are described in the documents governing the SMBC Funding Facility. As of December 31, 2012, the Company and ACJB were in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the SMBC Funding Facility.

        As of December 31, 2012, there were no amounts outstanding under the SMBC Funding Facility. Subject to certain exceptions, the interest rate charged on the SMBC Funding Facility is based on one month LIBOR plus an applicable spread of 2.125% or a "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the SMBC Funding Facility) plus an applicable spread of 1.125%. As of December 31, 2012, one-month LIBOR was 0.21%. Prior to July 20, 2012, there was no commitment fee required to be paid. Beginning on July 20, 2012, ACJB was required to pay a commitment fee of 0.50% depending on the size of the unused portion of the SMBC Funding Facility. As a result of the September 2012 amendment to the SMBC Funding Facility described above, ACJB is not required to pay a commitment fee until September 15, 2013, at which time ACJB will be required to pay a commitment fee of 0.50% depending on the size of the unused portion of the SMBC Funding Facility.

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        The components of interest and credit facility fees expense, cash paid for interest expense, average interest rates (i.e., rate in effect plus the spread) and average outstanding balances for the SMBC Funding Facility were as follows:

 
  For the Year Ended
December 31,
2012
 

Stated interest expense

  $ 1,419  

Facility fees

    3  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    629  
       

Total interest and credit facility fees expense

  $ 2,051  
       

Cash paid for interest expense

  $ 1,404  

Average stated interest rate

    2.41 %

Average outstanding balance

  $ 58,987  

        In July 2006, through ARCC Commercial Loan Trust 2006, a vehicle serviced by the Company's consolidated subsidiary, ARCC CLO 2006 LLC ("ARCC CLO"), the Company completed a $400,000 debt securitization (the "Debt Securitization") and issued approximately $314,000 aggregate principal amount of asset backed notes to third parties (the "CLO Notes") that were secured by a pool of middle market loans that were purchased or originated by the Company. The Company initially retained approximately $86,000 of aggregate principal amount of certain "BBB" and non-rated securities in the Debt Securitization and subsequently repurchased $34,790 of the CLO Notes. In June 2012, the Company repaid in full the $60,049 aggregate principal amount outstanding of the CLO Notes and terminated or discharged the agreements governing the Debt Securitization.

        The classes, amounts and interest rates (expressed as a spread to LIBOR) of the CLO Notes as of December 31, 2011 were as follows:

Class
  Amount   LIBOR
Spread
(basis points)
 

A-1A

  $ 4,896     25  

A-1A VFN

    12,520     28  

A-1B

    14,000     37  

A-2B

    13,905     35  

B

    9,000     43  

C

    23,210     70  
             

Total

  $ 77,531        
             

        The interest charged under the Debt Securitization was based on three month LIBOR, which as of December 31, 2011 was 0.56%. The blended interest rate charged on the CLO Notes, excluding fees, at December 31, 2011, was approximately three month LIBOR plus 45 basis points. The Company was also required to pay a commitment fee of 0.175% for any unused portion of the Class A-1A VFN Notes through June 17, 2011, the end of the reinvestment period, which is included in facility fees below.

        In connection with the repayment in full of the CLO Notes ahead of their scheduled maturities, the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs related to the CLO Notes of $2,678 were expensed and resulted in a realized loss on the extinguishment of debt.

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        The components of interest and credit facility fees expense, cash paid for interest expense, average interest rates (i.e., rate in effect plus the spread) and average outstanding balances for the Debt Securitization were as follows:

 
  For the Year Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

Stated interest expense

  $ 321   $ 897   $ 1,534  

Facility fees

        25     21  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    179     356     358  
               

Total interest and credit facility fees expense

  $ 500   $ 1,278   $ 1,913  
               

Cash paid for interest expense

  $ 347   $ 903   $ 1,536  

Average stated interest rate

    1.01 %   0.70 %   0.68 %

Average outstanding balance

  $ 31,829   $ 128,468   $ 228,252  

        In January 2011, the Company issued $575,000 aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on February 1, 2016 (the "February 2016 Convertible Notes"), unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms. In March 2011, the Company issued $230,000 aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on June 1, 2016 (the "June 2016 Convertible Notes"), unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms. In March 2012, the Company issued $162,500 aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on March 15, 2017 (the "2017 Convertible Notes"), unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms. In the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company issued $270,000 aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible senior notes that mature on January 15, 2018 (the "2018 Convertible Notes" and together with the 2017 Convertible Notes, February 2016 Convertible Notes and the June 2016 Convertible Notes, the "Convertible Unsecured Notes"), unless previously converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms. The Company does not have the right to redeem the Convertible Unsecured Notes prior to maturity. The February 2016 Convertible Notes, the June 2016 Convertible Notes, the 2017 Convertible Notes and the 2018 Convertible Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.75%, 5.125%, 4.875% and 4.75%, respectively, per year, payable semi-annually.

        In certain circumstances, the Convertible Unsecured Notes will be convertible into cash, shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares of its common stock, at the Company's election, at their respective conversion rates (listed below as of December 31, 2012) subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments and the requirements of their respective indenture (the "Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures"). Prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding their respective conversion date (listed below), holders may convert their Convertible Unsecured Notes only under certain circumstances set forth in the Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures. On or after their respective conversion dates until the close of business on the scheduled trading day immediately preceding their respective maturity date, holders may convert their Convertible Unsecured Notes at any time. In addition, if the Company engages in certain corporate events as described in their respective Convertible Unsecured Notes Indenture, holders of the Convertible Unsecured Notes may require the Company to repurchase for cash all or part of the Convertible Unsecured Notes at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Convertible Unsecured Notes to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest through, but excluding, the required repurchase date.

F-63


        Certain key terms related to the convertible features for each of the Convertible Unsecured Notes are listed below.

 
  February 2016
Convertible Notes
  June 2016
Convertible Notes
  2017
Convertible Notes
  2018
Convertible Notes
 

Conversion premium

    17.5 %   17.5 %   17.5 %   17.5 %

Closing stock price at issuance

    $16.28     $16.20     $16.46     $16.91  

Closing stock price date

    January 19, 2011     March 22, 2011     March 8, 2012     October 3, 2012  

Conversion price as of December 31, 2012

    $18.89     $18.80     $19.21     $19.81  

Conversion rate as of December 31, 2012 (shares per one thousand dollar principal amount)

    52.9289     53.1903     52.0606     50.4731  

Conversion dates

    August 15, 2015     December 15, 2015     September 15, 2016     July 15, 2017  

        As of December 31, 2012, the principal amounts of each series of the Convertible Unsecured Notes exceeded the value of the underlying shares multiplied by the per share closing price of the Company's common stock.

        The Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures contain certain covenants, including covenants requiring the Company to comply with Section 18(a)(1)(A) as modified by Section 61(a)(1) of the Investment Company Act and to provide financial information to the holders of the Convertible Unsecured Notes under certain circumstances. These covenants are subject to important limitations and exceptions that are described in the Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures. As of December 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures.

        The Convertible Unsecured Notes are accounted for in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 470-20. Upon conversion of any of the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Company intends to pay the outstanding principal amount in cash and to the extent that the conversion value exceeds the principal amount, the Company has the option to pay in cash or shares of the Company's common stock (or a combination of cash and shares) in respect of the excess amount, subject to the requirements of the Convertible Unsecured Notes Indentures. The Company has determined that the embedded conversion options in the Convertible Unsecured Notes are not required to be separately accounted for as a derivative under GAAP. In accounting for the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Company estimated at the time of issuance that the values of the debt and equity components were approximately 93% and 7%, respectively, for each of the February 2016 Convertible Notes and the June 2016 Convertible Notes, approximately 97% and 3%, respectively, for the 2017 Convertible Notes and approximately 98% and 2%, respectively, for the 2018 Convertible Notes. The original issue discount equal to the equity components of the Convertible Unsecured Notes was recorded in "capital in excess of par value" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. As a result, the Company records interest expense comprised of both stated interest expense as well as accretion of the original issue discount. Additionally, the issuance costs associated with the Convertible Unsecured Notes were allocated to the debt and equity components in proportion to the allocation of the proceeds and accounted for as debt issuance costs and equity issuance costs, respectively.

        At the time of issuance, the debt issuance costs and equity issuance costs for the February 2016 Convertible Notes were $15,778 and $1,188, respectively, for the June 2016 Convertible Notes were $5,913 and $445, respectively, for the 2017 Convertible Notes were $4,813 and $149, respectively, and for the 2018 Convertible Notes were $5,712 and $116, respectively. At the time of issuance and as of December 31, 2012, the equity component, net of issuance costs as recorded in the "capital in excess of par value" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet for the February 2016 Convertible Notes, the June 2016 Convertible Notes, the 2017 Convertible Notes and the 2018 Convertible Notes was $39,062, $15,654, $4,724 and $5,243, respectively.

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        As of December 31, 2012, the components of the carrying value of the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the stated interest rate and the effective interest rate were as follows:

 
  February 2016
Convertible Notes
  June 2016
Convertible Notes
  2017
Convertible Notes
  2018
Convertible Notes
 

Principal amount of debt

  $ 575,000   $ 230,000   $ 162,500   $ 270,000  

Original issue discount, net of accretion

    (26,479 )   (11,239 )   (4,188 )   (7,171 )
                   

Carrying value of debt

  $ 548,521   $ 218,761   $ 158,312   $ 262,829  
                   

Stated interest rate

    5.75 %   5.125 %   4.875 %   4.750 %

Effective interest rate(1)

    7.1 %   6.4 %   5.4 %   5.1 %

(1)
The effective interest rate of the debt component of the Convertible Unsecured Notes is equal to the stated interest rate plus the accretion of original issue discount.

        For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the components of interest expense and cash paid for interest expense for the Convertible Unsecured Notes were as follows:

 
  For year ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  

Stated interest expense

  $ 53,877   $ 39,797  

Accretion of original issue discount

    11,099     8,434  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    5,436     3,813  
           

Total interest expense

  $ 70,412   $ 52,044  
           

Cash paid for interest expense

  $ 48,833   $ 25,039  

        In February 2012, the Company issued $143,750 aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes that mature on February 15, 2022 (the "February 2022 Notes"). The February 2022 Notes bear interest at a rate of 7.00% per year, payable quarterly and all principal is due upon maturity. The February 2022 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at the Company's option on or after February 15, 2015, at a par redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest. Total proceeds from the issuance of the February 2022 Notes, net of underwriting discounts and offering costs, were approximately $138,338.

        In September 2012 and October 2012, the Company issued $182,500 aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes that mature on October 1, 2022 (the "October 2022 Notes"). The October 2022 Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.875% per year, payable quarterly commencing on January 1, 2013 and all principal is due upon maturity. The October 2022 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at the Company's option on or after October 1, 2015, at a par redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest. Total proceeds from the issuance of the October 2022 Notes, net of underwriting discounts and offering costs, were approximately $176,054.

        In October 2010, the Company issued $200,000 aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes that mature on October 15, 2040 (the "2040 Notes"). The 2040 Notes bear interest at a rate of

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7.75% per year, payable quarterly and all principal is due upon maturity. The 2040 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at the Company's option on or after October 15, 2015, at a par redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest. Total proceeds from the issuance of the 2040 Notes, net of underwriting discounts and offering costs, were approximately $193,000.

        The components of interest expense and cash paid for interest expense for the February 2022 Notes, the October 2022 Notes and the 2040 Notes are as follows:

 
  For the year ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

Stated interest expense

  $ 27,544   $ 15,500   $ 3,014  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    917     242     44  
               

Total interest expense

  $ 28,461   $ 15,742   $ 3,058  
               

Cash paid for interest expense

  $ 26,258   $ 15,242   $  

        As part of the Allied Acquisition, the Company assumed all outstanding debt obligations of Allied Capital, including Allied Capital's unsecured notes, which consisted of 6.625% Notes due on July 15, 2011 (the "2011 Notes"), 6.000% Notes due on April 1, 2012 (the "2012 Notes") and 6.875% Notes due on April 15, 2047 (the "2047 Notes" and, together with the 2011 Notes and the 2012 Notes, the "Allied Unsecured Notes"). In accordance with ASC 805-10, the initial carrying value of the Allied Unsecured Notes was equal to the fair value as of April 1, 2010 resulting in an initial unaccreted discount from the principal amount of the Allied Unsecured Notes of approximately $65,800. Accretion expense related to this discount is included in "interest and credit facility fees" in the accompanying statement of operations.

        March 16, 2011 the Company redeemed the remaining balance of the 2011 Notes for a total redemption price (including a redemption premium) of $306,800, in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the 2011 Notes, which realized a loss on the extinguishment of debt of $8,860. On April 27, 2011, the Company redeemed the remaining balance of the 2012 Notes for a total redemption price (including a redemption premium) of $169,338, in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the 2012 Notes, which resulted in a realized loss on the extinguishment of debt of $10,458. During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company purchased $19,350 principal amount of the 2011 Notes and $34,400 principal amount of the 2012 Notes. As a result of these transactions, the Company recognized a realized loss on the extinguishment of debt of $1,961.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the 2047 Notes were outstanding as follows:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
 
  Outstanding
Principal
  Carrying
Value(1)
  Outstanding
Principal
  Carrying
Value(1)
 

2047 Notes

  $ 230,000   $ 181,199   $ 230,000   $ 180,988  
                   

(1)
Represents the principal amount of the 2047 Notes less the unaccreted purchased discount initially recorded as a part of the Allied Acquisition.

        The 2047 Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.875% and mature on April 15, 2047. The 2047 Notes require payment of interest quarterly, and all principal is due upon maturity. The 2047 Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at the Company's option, at a par

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redemption price of $25.00 per security plus accrued and unpaid interest and upon the occurrence of certain tax events as described in the indenture governing the 2047 Notes.

        The components of interest expense and cash paid for interest expense for the Allied Unsecured Notes are as follows:

 
  For the Year Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

Stated interest expense

  $ 15,813   $ 23,078   $ 35,314  

Accretion of original issue discount

    211     2,624     8,201  
               

Total interest expense

  $ 16,024   $ 25,702   $ 43,515  
               

Cash paid for interest expense

  $ 15,812   $ 34,678   $ 34,056  

        The February 2022 Notes, the October 2022 Notes, the 2040 Notes and the 2047 Notes contain certain covenants, including covenants requiring the Company to comply with Section 18(a)(1)(A) as modified by Section 61(a)(1) of the Investment Company Act and to provide financial information to the holders of such notes under certain circumstances. These covenants are subject to important limitations and exceptions set forth in the indentures governing such notes. As of December 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance in all material respects with the terms of the indentures governing the February 2022 Notes, the October 2022 Notes, the 2040 Notes and the 2047 Notes.

        The Convertible Unsecured Notes and the Unsecured Notes are the Company's senior unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payment to its existing and future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Convertible Unsecured Notes and the Unsecured Notes; equal in right of payment to the Company's existing and future unsecured indebtedness that is not expressly subordinated; effectively junior in right of payment to any of its secured indebtedness (including existing unsecured indebtedness that the Company later secures) to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness; and structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by the Company's subsidiaries, financing vehicles or similar facilities.

6.     DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

        In October 2008, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement that terminated on December 20, 2010 to mitigate the Company's exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates for a total notional amount of $75,000. Under the interest rate swap agreement, the Company paid a fixed interest rate of 2.985% and received a floating rate based on the prevailing three-month LIBOR. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company recognized $1,741 in unrealized appreciation related to this swap agreement. Upon termination of this swap agreement in 2010, no realized gain or loss was recognized.

7.     COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

        The Company has various commitments to fund investments in its portfolio as described below.

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        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had the following commitments to fund various revolving and delayed draw senior secured and subordinated loans, including commitments to fund which are at (or substantially at) the Company's discretion:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  

Total revolving and delayed draw commitments

  $ 466,630   $ 565,630  

Less: funded commitments

    (107,121 )   (125,037 )
           

Total unfunded commitments

    359,509     440,593  

Less: commitments substantially at discretion of the Company

    (6,000 )   (64,750 )

Less: unavailable commitments due to borrowing base or other covenant restrictions

    (571 )   (5,518 )
           

Total net adjusted unfunded revolving and delayed draw commitments

  $ 352,938   $ 370,325  
           

        Included within the total revolving and delayed draw commitments as of December 31, 2012 were commitments to issue up to $62,250 in standby letters of credit through a financial intermediary on behalf of certain portfolio companies. Under these arrangements, if the standby letters of credit were to be issued, the Company would be required to make payments to third parties if the portfolio companies were to default on their related payment obligations. As of December 31, 2012, the Company had $41,354 in standby letters of credit issued and outstanding under these commitments on behalf of the portfolio companies, of which no amounts were recorded as a liability on the Company's balance sheet as such letters of credit are considered in the valuation of the investments in the portfolio company. Of these letters of credit $41,288 expire in 2013 and $66 expire in 2014.

        As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company was party to subscription agreements to fund equity investments in private equity investment partnerships as follows:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  

Total private equity commitments

  $ 131,042   $ 132,030  

Less: funded private equity commitments

    (66,533 )   (67,428 )
           

Total unfunded private equity commitments

    64,509     64,602  

Less: private equity commitments substantially at discretion of the Company

    (53,088 )   (53,525 )
           

Total net adjusted unfunded private equity commitments

  $ 11,421   $ 11,077  
           

        In addition, as of each of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had outstanding guarantees or similar obligations on behalf of certain portfolio companies totaling $800.

        In the ordinary course of business, the Company may sell certain of its investments to third party purchasers. In particular, in connection with the sale of certain controlled portfolio company equity investments (as well as certain other sales) the Company has, and may continue to do so in the future, agreed to indemnify such purchasers for future liabilities arising from the investments and the related sale transaction. Such indemnification provisions may give rise to future liabilities.

        As of December 31, 2012, one of the Company's portfolio companies, Ciena Capital LLC ("Ciena"), had one non-recourse securitization Small Business Administration ("SBA") loan warehouse facility, which has reached its maturity date but remains outstanding. Ciena is working with the providers of the SBA loan warehouse facility with regard to the repayment of that facility. Allied

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Capital had previously issued a performance guaranty (which the Company succeeded to as a result of the Allied Acquisition) whereby the Company must indemnify the warehouse providers for any damages, losses, liabilities and related costs and expenses that they may incur as a result of Ciena's failure to perform any of its obligations as loan originator, loan seller or loan servicer under the warehouse facility. As of December 31, 2012, there are no known issues or claims with respect to this performance guaranty.

        The Company is obligated under a number of operating leases and a sublease for office spaces with terms ranging from less than one year to more than 15 years. Rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 was $3,958, $3,343 and $5,167, respectively.

        The following table shows future minimum payments under the Company's operating leases and subleases:

For the year ending December 31,
  Amount  

2013

  $ 7,101  

2014

    6,603  

2015

    5,198  

2016

    5,380  

2017

    5,529  

Thereafter

    43,172  
       

Total

  $ 72,983  
       

        For certain of its operating leases, the Company has entered into subleases including ones with Ares Management and Ivy Hill Asset Management, L.P. ("IHAM"), a wholly owned portfolio company of the Company. See Note 13 for further description of these subleases.

        The following table shows future expected rental payments to be received under the Company's subleases:

For the year ending December 31,
  Amount  

2013

  $ 2,505  

2014

    2,271  

2015

    1,567  

2016

    1,625  

2017

    1,671  

Thereafter

    14,460  
       

Total

  $ 24,099  
       

8.     FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

        The Company follows ASC 825-10, which provides companies the option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. ASC 825-10 also establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between companies that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities and to more easily understand the effect of the company's choice to use fair value on its earnings. ASC 825-10 also requires entities to display the fair value of the selected assets and liabilities on the face of the balance sheet. The Company has not elected the ASC 825-10 option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. With the exception of the line items entitled "other assets" and "debt," which are reported at amortized cost, all assets and liabilities approximate fair value on the balance sheet. The carrying value of the line items

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entitled "interest receivable," "receivable for open trades," "payable for open trades," "accounts payable and accrued expenses," "management and incentive fees payable" and "interest and facility fees payable" approximate fair value due to their short maturity.

        The Company also follows ASC 820-10, which expands the application of fair value accounting. ASC 820-10 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with GAAP and expands disclosure of fair value measurements. ASC 820-10 determines fair value to be the price that would be received for an investment in a current sale, which assumes an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. ASC 820-10 requires the Company to assume that the portfolio investment is sold in its principal market to market participants or, in the absence of a principal market, the most advantageous market, which may be a hypothetical market. Market participants are defined as buyers and sellers in the principal or most advantageous market that are independent, knowledgeable, and willing and able to transact. In accordance with ASC 820-10, the Company has considered its principal market as the market in which the Company exits its portfolio investments with the greatest volume and level of activity. ASC 820-10 specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. In accordance with ASC 820-10, these inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:

        In addition to using the above inputs in investment valuations, the Company continues to employ the net asset valuation policy approved by the Company's board of directors that is consistent with ASC 820-10 (see Note 2). Consistent with the Company's valuation policy, it evaluates the source of inputs, including any markets in which the Company's investments are trading (or any markets in which securities with similar attributes are trading), in determining fair value. The Company's valuation policy considers the fact that because there is not a readily available market value for most of the investments in the Company's portfolio, the fair value of the investments must typically be determined using unobservable inputs.

        The Company's portfolio investments (other than as discussed below in the following paragraph) are typically valued using two different valuation techniques. The first valuation technique is an analysis of the enterprise value ("EV") of the portfolio company. Enterprise value means the entire value of the portfolio company to a market participant, including the sum of the values of debt and equity securities used to capitalize the enterprise at a point in time. The primary method for determining EV uses a multiple analysis whereby appropriate multiples are applied to the portfolio company's EBITDA (net income before net interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization). EBITDA multiples are typically determined based upon review of market comparable transactions and publicly traded comparable companies, if any. The second method for determining EV uses a discounted cash flow analysis whereby future expected cash flows of the portfolio company are discounted to determine a present value using estimated discount rates (typically a weighted average cost of capital based on costs of debt and equity consistent with current market conditions). The EV analysis is performed to determine the value of equity investments, the value of debt investments in portfolio companies where the Company has control or could gain control through an option or warrant security, and to determine if there is credit impairment for debt investments. If debt investments are credit impaired, an EV analysis may be used to value such debt investments; however, in addition to the methods outlined above, other methods such as a liquidation or wind-down analysis may be utilized to estimate enterprise value. The second valuation technique is a yield analysis, which is typically performed for non-credit

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impaired debt investments in portfolio companies where the Company does not own a controlling equity position. To determine fair value using a yield analysis, a current price is imputed for the investment based upon an assessment of the expected market yield for a similarly structured investment with a similar level of risk. In the yield analysis, the Company considers the current contractual interest rate, the maturity and other terms of the investment relative to risk of the company and the specific investment. A key determinant of risk, among other things, is the leverage through the investment relative to the enterprise value of the portfolio company. As debt investments held by the Company are substantially illiquid with no active transaction market, the Company depends on primary market data, including newly funded transactions, as well as secondary market data with respect to high yield debt instruments and syndicated loans, as inputs in determining the appropriate market yield, as applicable.

        For other portfolio investments such as investments in collateralized loan obligations and the SSLP Certificates, discounted cash flow analysis is the primary technique utilized to determine fair value. Expected future cash flows associated with the investment are discounted to determine a present value using a discount rate that reflects estimated market return requirements.

        The following table summarizes the significant unobservable inputs the Company used to value the majority of its investments categorized within Level 3 as of December 31, 2012. The table is not intended to be all-inclusive, but instead captures the significant unobservable inputs relevant to the Company's determination of fair values.

 
   
   
  Unobservable Input  
Asset Category
  Fair
Value
  Primary
Valuation Technique
  Input   Range   Weighted
Average
 

Senior term debt

  $ 3,555,144   Yield Analysis   Market Yield   5.3% - 21.9%     9.8 %

Subordinated Certificates of the SSLP

    1,263,644   Discounted Cash Flow   Discount Rate   11.5% - 14.5%     13.5 %

Senior subordinated debt

    259,820   Yield Analysis   Market Yield   10.0% - 18.6%     14.9 %

Preferred equity securities

    250,118   EV Market Multiple Analysis   EBITDA Multiple   4.5x - 10.5x     8.1 x

Other equity securities and other

    585,931   EV Market Multiple Analysis   EBITDA Multiple   4.5x - 12.8x     7.4 x
                         

Total

  $ 5,914,657                    
                         

        Changes in market yields, discount rates or EBITDA multiples, each in isolation, may change the fair value of certain of the Company's investments. Generally, an increase in market yields or discount rates or decrease in EBITDA multiples may result in a decrease in the fair value of certain of the Company's investments.

        Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Company's investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of the Company's investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values that the Company may ultimately realize. Further, such investments are generally subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise are less liquid than publicly traded securities. If the Company was required to liquidate a portfolio investment in a forced or liquidation sale, it could realize significantly less than the value at which the Company has recorded it.

        In addition, changes in the market environment and other events that may occur over the life of the investments may cause the gains or losses ultimately realized on these investments to be different than the unrealized gains or losses reflected in the valuations currently assigned.

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        The following table presents fair value measurements of cash and cash equivalents and investments as of December 31, 2012:

 
  Fair Value Measurements Using  
 
  Total   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3  

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 269,043   $ 269,043   $   $  

Investments

  $ 5,924,555   $ 9,898   $   $ 5,914,657  

        The following table presents fair value measurements of cash and cash equivalents and investments as of December 31, 2011:

 
  Fair Value Measurements Using  
 
  Total   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3  

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 120,782   $ 120,782   $   $  

Investments

  $ 5,094,506   $   $   $ 5,094,506  

        The following table presents changes in investments that use Level 3 inputs as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012:

 
  As of and for the
year ended
December 31, 2012
 

Balance as of December 31, 2011

  $ 5,094,506  

Net realized and unrealized gains

    155,587  

Purchases

    3,161,661  

Sales

    (667,550 )

Redemptions

    (1,862,848 )

Payment-in-kind interest and dividends

    25,036  

Accretion of discount on securities

    13,747  

Net transfers in and/or out of Level 3

    (5,482 )
       

Balance as of December 31, 2012

  $ 5,914,657  
       

        As of December 31, 2012, the net unrealized appreciation on the investments that use Level 3 inputs was $92,638.

        The following table presents changes in investments that use Level 3 inputs as of and for the year ended December 31, 2011:

 
  As of and for the
year ended
December 31, 2011
 

Balance as of December 31, 2010

  $ 4,312,657  

Net realized and unrealized gains

    69,658  

Purchases

    3,239,023  

Sales

    (994,989 )

Redemptions

    (1,553,167 )

Payment-in-kind interest and dividends

    30,070  

Accretion of discount on securities

    15,894  

Net transfers in and/or out of Level 3

    (24,640 )
       

Balance as of December 31, 2011

  $ 5,094,506  
       

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        As of December 31, 2011, the net unrealized depreciation on the investments that use Level 3 inputs was $14,157.

        Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfers occur.

        Following are the carrying and fair values of the Company's debt obligations as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. Fair value is estimated by discounting remaining payments using applicable current market rates, which take into account changes in the Company's marketplace credit ratings, or market quotes, if available.

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
 
  Carrying value(1)   Fair value   Carrying value(1)   Fair value  

Revolving Credit Facility

  $   $   $ 395,000   $ 399,400  

Revolving Funding Facility

    300,000     303,209     463,000     467,900  

Debt Securitization

            77,531     68,215  

February 2016 Convertible Notes (principal amount outstanding of $575,000)

    548,521 (2)   617,550     541,152 (2)   545,445  

June 2016 Convertible Notes (principal amount outstanding of $230,000)

    218,761 (2)   243,797     215,931 (2)   215,717  

2017 Convertible Notes (principal amount outstanding of $162,500)

    158,312 (2)   168,495          

2018 Convertible Notes (principal amount outstanding of $270,000)

    262,829 (2)   272,813              

February 2022 Notes (principal amount outstanding of $143,750)

    143,750     151,549          

October 2022 Notes (principal amount outstanding of $182,500)

    182,500     179,361          

2040 Notes (principal amount outstanding of $200,000)

    200,000     208,968     200,000     198,808  

2047 Notes (principal amount outstanding of $230,000)

    181,199 (3)   225,558     180,988 (3)   212,218  
                   

  $ 2,195,872 (4) $ 2,371,300   $ 2,073,602 (4) $ 2,107,703  
                   

(1)
Except for the Convertible Unsecured Notes and the 2047 Notes, all carrying values are the same as the principal amounts outstanding.

(2)
Represents the aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Convertible Unsecured Notes less the unaccreted discount initially recorded upon issuance of each respective series of the Convertible Unsecured Notes.

(3)
Represents the aggregate principal amount outstanding of the 2047 Notes less the unaccreted purchased discount.

(4)
Total principal amount of debt outstanding totaled $2,293,750 and $2,170,531 as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

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        The following table presents fair value measurements of the Company's debt obligations as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

 
  As of December 31,  
Fair Value Measurements Using
  2012   2011  

Level 1

  $ 765,436   $ 411,026  

Level 2

    1,605,864     1,696,677  
           

Total

  $ 2,371,300   $ 2,107,703  
           

9.     STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

        The following table summarizes the total shares issued and proceeds received in public offerings of the Company's common stock net of underwriting discounts and offering costs for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2010:

 
  Shares
issued
  Offering price
per share
  Proceeds net of
underwriting discounts
and offering costs
 

2012

                   

August 2012 public offering

    25,875   $ 16.55 (1) $ 427,566  

January 2012 public offering

    16,422   $ 15.41 (2) $ 252,415  
                 

Total for the year ended December 31, 2012

    42,297         $ 679,981  

2010

                   

November 2010 public offering

    11,500   $ 16.50   $ 180,642  

February 2010 public offering

    22,958   $ 12.75   $ 277,207  
                 

Total for the year ended December 31, 2010

    34,458         $ 457,849  

(1)
The shares were sold to the underwriters for a price of $16.55 per share, which the underwriters were then permitted to sell at variable prices to the public.

(2)
The shares were sold to the underwriters for a price of $15.41 per share, which the underwriters were then permitted to sell at variable prices to the public.

        The Company used the net proceeds from the 2012 and 2010 public equity offerings to repay outstanding debt and for general corporate purposes, which included funding investments in accordance with our investment objective.

        There were no sales of the Company's equity securities for the year ended December 31, 2011.

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10.   EARNINGS PER SHARE

        The following information sets forth the computations of basic and diluted net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations per share for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010:

 
  For the years ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations available to common stockholders:

  $ 508,178   $ 319,453   $ 691,834  

Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding—basic and diluted:

    230,151     204,860     176,732  

Basic and diluted net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations per share:

  $ 2.21   $ 1.56   $ 3.91  

        For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, the average closing price of the Company's common stock for the year ended December 31, 2012, for the period from the time of issuance of the 2017 Convertible Notes through December 31, 2012 and for the period from the time of issuance of the 2018 Convertible Notes through December 31, 2012, was each less than the conversion price in effect for such period for each applicable series of the Convertible Unsecured Notes and therefore, the underlying shares for the intrinsic value of the embedded options in the Convertible Unsecured Notes had no impact on this calculation. The average closing price of the Company's common stock for the year ended December 31, 2011, for the period from the time of issuance of the February 2016 Convertible Notes through December 31, 2011 and for the period from the time of issuance of the June 2016 Convertible Notes through December 31, 2011, was each less than the conversion price in effect for such period for each applicable series of the Convertible Unsecured Notes and therefore, the underlying shares for the intrinsic value of the embedded options in the Convertible Unsecured Notes had no impact on this calculation.

11.   INCOME AND EXCISE TAXES

        For income tax purposes, dividends paid and distributions made to stockholders are reported as ordinary income, capital gains, non-taxable return of capital, or a combination thereof. Dividends paid per common share for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 were taxable as follows (unaudited):

 
  For the years ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  

Ordinary income(1)

  $ 1.56   $ 1.16   $ 1.40  

Capital gains

    0.04     0.25      
               

Total

  $ 1.60   $ 1.41   $ 1.40  
               

(1)
For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, ordinary income included dividend income of approximately $0.0918, $0.0619 and $0.0164, per share, respectively, that qualified to be taxed at the 15% maximum capital gains rate. For certain eligible corporate shareholders, these dividends were eligible for the dividend received deduction.

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        The following reconciles net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations to taxable income for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 
  For the years ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (Estimated)(1)
   
   
 

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

  $ 508,178   $ 319,453   $ 691,834  

Adjustments:

                   

Net unrealized (gain) loss on investments

    (115,261 )   40,192     (230,743 )

Items related to the Allied Acquisition:

                   

Gain on the Allied Acquisition

            (195,876 )

Other merger-related items

            (4,007 )

Other income not currently taxable

    (33,742 )   (55,936 )   (36,486 )

Other income for tax but not book

    48,701     73,657     71,997  

Expenses not currently deductible

    46,333     59,019     33,499  

Other deductible expenses

    (4,628 )   (1,210 )   (786 )

Other realized gain/loss differences

    (9,944 )   (33,720 )   (12,736 )
               

Taxable income

  $ 439,637   $ 401,455   $ 316,696  
               

(1)
The calculation of estimated 2012 taxable income includes a number of estimated inputs, including information received from third parties and, as a result, actual 2012 taxable income will not be finally determined until the Company's 2012 tax return is filed in 2013 (and, therefore, such estimate is subject to change).

        Taxable income generally differs from net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations for financial reporting purposes due to temporary and permanent differences in the recognition of income and expenses, and generally excludes net unrealized gains or losses, as unrealized gains or losses are generally not included in taxable income until they are realized. Additionally, on April 1, 2010, the Company acquired Allied Capital in a tax free merger and recorded a book gain of $195,876, which was not a realized event for tax purposes. Similarly, there were certain merger-related items that vary in their deductibility for GAAP and tax.

        Capital losses in excess of capital gains earned in a tax year may generally be carried forward and used to offset capital gains, subject to certain limitations. As of December 31, 2012, the Company estimates that it will have a capital loss carryforward of approximately $148.0 million available for use in later tax years. Because of the loss limitation rules of the Code, some of the tax basis capital losses may be limited in their use. The unused balance will be carried forward and utilized as gains are realized, subject to such limitations. In addition to the capital loss carryforwards, the Company realized net losses totaling approximately $0.3 billion from the Allied Capital portfolio since the acquisition through December 31, 2012, that have not yet been deducted for tax purposes as their deductibility in 2012, 2011 and 2010 was limited by the Code. While the Company's ability to utilize losses in the future depends upon a variety of factors that cannot be known in advance, substantially all of the Company's capital loss carryforwards and the net realized losses from the Allied Capital portfolio may become permanently unavailable due to limitations by the Code.

        For 2011, the Company had taxable income in excess of distributions made from such taxable income of approximately $177 million and therefore, the Company carried forward the excess for distribution to shareholders in 2012. For 2012, the Company had taxable income in excess of the distributions made from such taxable income during the year, and therefore, the Company has elected to carry forward the excess for distribution to shareholders in 2013. The amount carried forward to 2013 is estimated to be approximately $239 million, although this amount will not be finalized until the 2012 tax returns are filed in 2013. To the extent that the Company determines that its estimated current

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year annual taxable income will be in excess of estimated current year dividend distributions from such income, the Company accrues excise tax on estimated excess taxable income. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, a net expense of $7,937, $6,605 and $2,229, respectively, was recorded for U.S. federal excise tax.

        As of December 31, 2012, the cost basis of investments for tax purposes was $6.8 billion resulting in estimated gross unrealized gains and losses of $0.3 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, the cost basis of investments for tax purposes was $6.1 billion resulting in estimated gross unrealized gains and losses of $0.2 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the cost of investments for tax purposes was greater than the amortized cost of investments for book purposes of $5.8 billion and $5.1 billion, respectively, primarily as a result of the Allied Acquisition. The Allied Acquisition qualified as a tax free merger, which resulted in the acquired assets retaining Allied Capital's cost basis at the merger date.

        In general, the Company may make certain adjustments to the classification of stockholders' equity as a result of permanent book-to-tax differences, which may include merger-related items, differences in the book and tax basis of certain assets and liabilities, and nondeductible federal taxes, among other items. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company decreased accumulated overdistributed net investment income by $11,172, increased accumulated net realized loss on investments, foreign currency transactions, extinguishment of debt and other assets by $27,982 and increased capital in excess of par value by $16,810. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company decreased accumulated overdistributed net investment income by $7,474, increased accumulated net realized loss on investments, foreign currency transactions, extinguishment of debt and other assets by $126,234 and increased capital in excess of par value by $118,760. During the year ended December 31, 2010, as a result of certain permanent book-to-tax differences, including the nontaxability of the book gain on the Allied Acquisition and the nondeductibility of certain merger-related expenses, the Company decreased accumulated overdistributed net investment income by $22,001, increased accumulated net realized loss on investments, foreign currency transactions, extinguishment of debt and other assets by $383,856 and increased capital in excess of par value by $361,855.

        Certain of the Company's consolidated subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal and state income taxes. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company recorded a tax expense of approximately $3,235, $869 and $3,163, respectively, for these subsidiaries.

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12.   DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS

        The following table summarizes the Company's dividends declared for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

Date declared
  Record date   Payment date   Per share
amount
  Total amount  

November 5, 2012

    December 14, 2012     December 28, 2012   $ 0.38   $ 94,360  

November 5, 2012

    December 14, 2012     December 28, 2012   $ 0.05 (1)   12,415  

August 7, 2012

    September 14, 2012     September 28, 2012   $ 0.38     94,250  

August 7, 2012

    September 14, 2012     September 28, 2012   $ 0.05 (1)   12,401  

May 8, 2012

    June 15, 2012     June 29, 2012   $ 0.37     82,094  

February 28, 2012

    March 15, 2012     March 30, 2012   $ 0.37     81,974  
                       

Total declared for 2012

              $ 1.60   $ 377,494  
                       

November 8, 2011

    December 15, 2011     December 30, 2011   $ 0.36   $ 74,137  

August 4, 2011

    September 15, 2011     September 30, 2011   $ 0.35     71,643  

May 3, 2011

    June 15, 2011     June 30, 2011   $ 0.35     71,663  

March 1, 2011

    March 15, 2011     March 31, 2011   $ 0.35     71,547  
                       

Total declared for 2011

              $ 1.41   $ 288,990  
                       

November 4, 2010

    December 15, 2010     December 31, 2010   $ 0.35   $ 71,423  

August 5, 2010

    September 15, 2010     September 30, 2010   $ 0.35     67,266  

May 10, 2010

    June 15, 2010     June 30, 2010   $ 0.35     67,091  

February 25, 2010

    March 15, 2010     March 31, 2010   $ 0.35     46,516  
                       

Total declared for 2010

              $ 1.40   $ 252,296  
                       

(1)
Represents an additional dividend.

        The Company has a dividend reinvestment plan that was amended effective March 28, 2012, whereby the Company may buy shares of its common stock in the open market or issue new shares in order to satisfy dividend reinvestment requests. Prior to the amendment, if the Company issued new shares to implement the dividend reinvestment plan, the issue price was equal to the closing price of its common stock on the dividend record date. As a result of the amendment, when the Company issues new shares in connection with the dividend reinvestment plan, the issue price is equal to the closing price of its common stock on the dividend payment date. Dividend reinvestment plan activity for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, was as follows:

 
  2012   2011   2010  

Shares issued

    1,226     711     1,523  

Average price per share

  $ 16.68   $ 16.24   $ 14.79  

Shares purchased by plan agent for shareholders

        785      

Average price per share

  $   $ 14.71   $  

13.   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

        In accordance with the investment advisory and management agreement, the Company bears all costs and expenses of the operation of the Company and reimburses its investment adviser for certain of such costs and expenses incurred in the operation of the Company. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the investment adviser incurred such expenses totaling $3,528, $4,646 and $3,264, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, $583 was unpaid and such payable is included in "accounts payable and accrued expenses" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

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        The Company has entered into separate subleases with Ares Management and IHAM pursuant to which Ares Management and IHAM sublease approximately 15% and 20%, respectively, of the Company's New York office space for a fixed rent equal to 15% and 20%, respectively, of the base annual rent payable by the Company under the Company's lease for this space, plus certain additional costs and expenses. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, amounts payable to the Company totaled $1,587 and $812, respectively. Under the Company's previous New York office space lease that expired on February 27, 2011, the Company was party to a sublease agreement with Ares Management whereby Ares Management subleased approximately 25% of such office space for a fixed rent equal to 25% of the basic annual rent payable by the Company under this lease, plus certain additional costs and expenses. For the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, amounts payable to the Company in connection with such previous lease totaled $396 and $253, respectively.

        In April 2012, the Company entered into an office sublease with Ares Commercial Real Estate Management LLC ("ACREM"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ares Management and manager of Ares Commercial Real Estate Corporation, pursuant to which the Company is subleasing approximately 12% of ACREM's Chicago office space for a fixed rent equal to 12% of the basic annual rent payable by ACREM under its office lease, plus certain additional costs and expenses. For the year ended December 31, 2012, amounts payable under this sublease by the Company to ACREM totaled $55.

        As of December 31, 2012, Ares Investments Holdings LLC, an affiliate of Ares Management, owned approximately 2.9 million shares of the Company's common stock representing approximately 1.2% of the total shares outstanding as of December 31, 2012.

        See Notes 3 and 14 for descriptions of other related party transactions.

14.   IVY HILL ASSET MANAGEMENT, L.P. AND OTHER MANAGED VEHICLES

        The Company has made investments in its portfolio company, IHAM, which became an SEC registered investment adviser, effective March 30, 2012, as well as in certain vehicles managed by IHAM. As of December 31, 2012, IHAM managed 13 credit vehicles and served as the sub-manager/sub-servicer for three other vehicles (these vehicles managed or sub-managed/sub-serviced by IHAM are collectively, the "IHAM Vehicles"). As of December 31, 2011, the Company also had investments in two of the IHAM Vehicles.

        As of December 31, 2012, the Company's total investment in IHAM at fair value was $294,258, including unrealized appreciation of $123,297. As of December 31, 2011, the Company's total investment in IHAM at fair value was $194,597, including unrealized appreciation of $81,721. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company received distributions consisting entirely of dividend income from IHAM of $19,939, $19,048 and $7,320, respectively.

        From time to time, IHAM or certain IHAM Vehicles may purchase investments from the Company or sell investments to it. For any such purchases or sales by the IHAM Vehicles from or to the Company, the IHAM Vehicles must obtain approval from third parties unaffiliated with the Company or IHAM, as applicable. IHAM or certain of the IHAM Vehicles purchased investments from the Company of $256,925 and $261,322, during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. A net realized gain of $2,326 and $51 was recorded on these transactions for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company also purchased $3,777 of investments from certain of the IHAM Vehicles.

        In October 2012, the Company contributed to IHAM its entire investment in FirstLight Financial Corporation ("FirstLight Corp.") at a price equal to the fair value at the time of the contribution of $58,085 ($51,760 for its senior subordinated loan position and $6,325 for its equity position). As a result of the contribution, the Company fully exited its investment in FirstLight Corp., which reduced its investment commitments by $84,153, and recognized a net loss of $26,068. Prior to such contribution,

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IHAM served as a sub-adviser to FirstLight Funding I, Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of FirstLight Corp. ("FirstLight Funding"). Following such contribution, FirstLight Funding distributed to FirstLight Corp. substantially all of its assets (in the form of cash and investments). In turn, FirstLight Corp. repaid in full the total outstanding amount of its senior subordinated loans (including the portion held by IHAM following the contribution transaction) and made a distribution to its stockholders (including IHAM following the contribution transaction). In connection with the foregoing, IHAM ceased to be a sub-adviser to FirstLight Funding and IHAM became the collateral manager to FirstLight Corp. and the other entity invested in FirstLight Corp.

        IHAM is party to an administration agreement, referred to herein as the "IHAM administration agreement," with Ares Operations. Pursuant to the IHAM administration agreement, Ares Operations provides IHAM with, among other things, office facilities, equipment, clerical, bookkeeping and record keeping services, services relating to the marketing and sale of interests in vehicles managed by IHAM, services of, and oversight of, custodians, depositories, accountants, attorneys, underwriters and such other persons in any other capacity deemed to be necessary. Under the IHAM administration agreement, IHAM reimburses Ares Operations for all of the actual costs associated with such services, including Ares Operations' allocable portion of overhead and the cost of its officers, employees and respective staff in performing its obligations under the IHAM administration agreement.

        As part of the Allied Acquisition, the Company acquired the management rights for an unconsolidated vehicle, the AGILE Fund I, LLC ("AGILE Fund"). Effective March 30, 2012, the management rights for the AGILE Fund were transferred for de minimis, non-monetary consideration to an unrelated third party. The Company's investment in AGILE Fund was $29 and $132 at fair value, respectively, including unrealized depreciation of $95 and $84, respectively, as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

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15.   FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

        The following is a schedule of financial highlights as of and for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 
  As of and for the year ended  
Per Share Data:
  December 31, 2012   December 31, 2011   December 31, 2010  

Net asset value, beginning of period(1)

  $ 15.34   $ 14.92   $ 11.44  

Issuances of common stock

    0.05         0.95  

Issuances of the Convertible Unsecured Notes

    0.04     0.27      

Net investment income for period(2)

    1.52     1.38     1.23  

Gain on the Allied Acquisition(2)

            1.11  

Net realized and unrealized gains for period(2)

    0.69     0.18     1.59  
               

Net increase in stockholders' equity

    2.30     1.83     4.88  

Distributions from net investment income

    (1.56 )   (1.16 )   (1.40 )

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.04 )   (0.25 )    
               

Total distributions to stockholders

    (1.60 )   (1.41 )   (1.40 )
               

Net asset value at end of period(1)

  $ 16.04   $ 15.34   $ 14.92  
               

Per share market value at end of period

  $ 17.50   $ 15.45   $ 16.48  

Total return based on market value(3)

    23.62 %   2.31 %   43.61 %

Total return based on net asset value(4)

    14.34 %   10.45 %   31.61 %

Shares outstanding at end of period

    248,653     205,130     204,419  

Ratio/Supplemental Data:

                   

Net assets at end of period

  $ 3,988,346   $ 3,147,265   $ 3,050,533  

Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets(5)(6)

    10.70 %   10.94 %   11.02 %

Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(5)(7)

    9.62 %   8.97 %   9.07 %

Portfolio turnover rate(5)

    45 %   53 %   45 %

(1)
The net assets used equals the total stockholders' equity on the consolidated balance sheets.

(2)
Weighted average basic per share data.

(3)
For the year ended December 31, 2012, the total return based on market value equalled the increase of the ending market value at December 31, 2012 of $17.50 per share over the ending market value at December 31, 2011 of $15.45 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.60 per share for the year ended December 31, 2012, divided by the market value at December 31, 2011. For the year ended December 31, 2011, the total return based on market value for the year ended December 31, 2011 equalled the decrease of the ending market value at December 30, 2011 of $15.45 per share from the ending market value at December 31, 2010 of $16.48 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.41 per share for the year ended December 31, 2011, divided by the market value at December 31, 2010. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the total return based on market value for the year ended December 31, 2010 equalled the increase of the ending market value at December 31, 2010 of $16.48 per share over the ending market value at December 31, 2009 of $12.45 per share plus the declared dividends of $1.40 per share for the year ended December 31, 2010, divided by the market value at December 31, 2009. Total return based on market value is not annualized. The Company's shares fluctuate in value. The Company's performance changes over time and currently may be different than that shown. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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(4)
For the year ended December 31, 2012, the total return based on net asset value equalled the change in net asset value during the period plus the declared dividends of $1.60 per share for the year ended December 31, 2012, divided by the beginning net asset value. For the year ended December 31, 2011, the total return based on net asset value equalled the change in net asset value during the period plus the declared dividends of $1.41 per share for the year ended December 31, 2011 divided by the beginning net asset value for the period. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the total return based on net asset value equalled the change in net asset value during the period plus the declared dividends of $1.40 per share for the year ended December 31, 2010 divided by the beginning net asset value for the period.These calculations are adjusted for shares issued in connection with the dividend reinvestment plan and the issuance of common stock in connection with any equity offerings. Total return based on net asset value is not annualized. The Company's performance changes over time and currently may be different than that shown. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

(5)
The ratios reflect an annualized amount.

(6)
For the year ended December 31, 2012, the ratio of operating expenses to average net assets consisted of 2.38% of base management fees, 3.50% of incentive fees, 3.94% of the cost of borrowing and 0.88% of other operating expenses. For the year ended December 31, 2011, the ratio of operating expenses to average net assets consisted of 2.27% of base management fees, 3.57% of incentive fees, 3.89% of the cost of borrowing and other operating expenses of 1.21%. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the ratio of operating expenses to average net assets consisted of 2.19% of base management fees, 3.23% of incentive fees, 3.34% of the cost of borrowing and other operating expenses of 2.27%. These ratios reflect annualized amounts.

(7)
The ratio of net investment income to average net assets excludes income taxes related to realized gains.

16.   SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA (Unaudited)

 
  2012  
 
  Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1  

Total investment income

  $ 212,160   $ 190,572   $ 177,555   $ 167,738  

Net investment income before net realized and unrealized gains and incentive compensation

  $ 138,249   $ 123,599   $ 110,634   $ 103,424  

Incentive compensation

  $ 43,787   $ 34,139   $ 22,733   $ 26,386  

Net investment income before net realized and unrealized gains

  $ 94,462   $ 89,460   $ 87,901   $ 77,038  

Net realized and unrealized gains

  $ 80,682   $ 47,095   $ 3,031   $ 28,509  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

  $ 175,144   $ 136,555   $ 90,932   $ 105,547  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share

  $ 0.71   $ 0.59   $ 0.41   $ 0.49  

Net asset value per share as of the end of the quarter

  $ 16.04   $ 15.74   $ 15.51   $ 15.47  

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  2011  
 
  Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1  

Total investment income

  $ 187,123   $ 167,365   $ 144,307   $ 135,691  

Net investment income before net realized and unrealized gains (losses) and incentive compensation

  $ 121,990   $ 108,517   $ 85,509   $ 78,764  

Incentive compensation

  $ 29,531   $ 10,159   $ 41,746   $ 30,941  

Net investment income before net realized and unrealized gains (losses)

  $ 92,459   $ 98,358   $ 43,763   $ 47,823  

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)

  $ 25,666   $ (57,719 ) $ (6,840 ) $ 75,943  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

  $ 118,125   $ 40,639   $ 36,923   $ 123,766  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share

  $ 0.58   $ 0.20   $ 0.18   $ 0.61  

Net asset value per share as of the end of the quarter

  $ 15.34   $ 15.13   $ 15.28   $ 15.45  

 

 
  2010  
 
  Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1  

Total investment income

  $ 157,170   $ 138,126   $ 121,590   $ 66,510  

Net investment income before net realized and unrealized gains and incentive compensation

  $ 99,323   $ 89,025   $ 64,514   $ 39,849  

Incentive compensation

  $ 35,973   $ 17,805   $ 14,973   $ 8,144  

Net investment income before net realized and unrealized gains

  $ 63,350   $ 71,220   $ 49,541   $ 31,705  

Net realized and unrealized gains

  $ 93,538   $ 57,157   $ 280,613 (1) $ 44,710  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

  $ 156,888   $ 128,377   $ 330,154   $ 76,415  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share

  $ 0.79   $ 0.67   $ 1.73   $ 0.61  

Net asset value per share as of the end of the quarter

  $ 14.92   $ 14.43   $ 14.11   $ 11.78  

(1)
Includes gain on the Allied Acquisition of $195,876.

17.   ALLIED ACQUISITION

        On April 1, 2010, the Company completed the Allied Acquisition by acquiring the outstanding shares of Allied Capital in exchange for shares of the Company's common stock in a transaction valued at approximately $908 million as of the closing date. Concurrently with the completion of the Allied Acquisition, the Company repaid in full the $137 million of remaining principal amounts outstanding on Allied Capital's $250 million senior secured term loan. The Company also assumed all of Allied Capital's other outstanding debt obligations, including approximately $745 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Allied Unsecured Notes.

        Under the terms of the Allied Acquisition each Allied Capital stockholder received 0.325 shares of the Company's common stock for each share of Allied Capital common stock then owned by such stockholder. In connection with the Allied Acquisition, approximately 58.5 million shares of the Company's common stock (including the effect of outstanding in-the money Allied Capital stock options) were issued to Allied Capital's then-existing stockholders, resulting in the Company's then-existing stockholders owning approximately 69% of the combined company and the then-existing Allied Capital stockholders owning approximately 31% of the combined company.

        The Allied Acquisition was accounted for in accordance with the acquisition method of accounting as detailed in ASC 805-10. The acquisition method of accounting requires an acquirer to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired entity based on their fair values as of the date of acquisition. As described in more detail in ASC 805-10, if the total

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acquisition date fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired exceeds the fair value of the consideration transferred, the excess will be recognized as a gain. Upon completion of the Company's determination of the fair value of Allied Capital's identifiable net assets as of April 1, 2010, the fair value of such net assets exceeded the fair value of the consideration transferred, resulting in the recognition of a gain. The valuation of the investments acquired as part of the Allied Acquisition was done in accordance with Ares Capital's valuation policy (see Notes 2 and 8).

        Set forth below is the allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with the Allied Acquisition:

Common stock issued

  $ 872,727  

Payments to holders of "in-the-money" Allied Capital stock options

    35,011 (1)
       

Total purchase price

  $ 907,738  
       

Assets acquired:

       

Investments

  $ 1,833,766  

Cash and cash equivalents

    133,548  

Other assets

    80,078  
       

Total assets acquired

    2,047,392  

Debt and other liabilities assumed

    (943,778 )
       

Net assets acquired

    1,103,614  
       

Gain on Allied Acquisition

    (195,876 )
       

  $ 907,738  
       

(1)
Represents cash payment for holders of any "in-the-money" Allied Capital stock options that elected to receive cash.

        The following pro forma condensed combined financial information does not purport to be indicative of actual financial position or results of the Company's operations had the Allied Acquisition actually been consummated at the beginning of the period presented. Certain one-time charges have been eliminated. For year ended December 31, 2010, the Company recognized $19,833 in professional fees and other costs related to the Allied Acquisition. The pro forma adjustments reflecting the allocation of the purchase price of Allied Capital and the gain of $195,876 recognized on the Allied Acquisition have been eliminated from the period presented. The pro forma condensed combined financial information did not reflect the potential impact of possible synergies and did not reflect any impact of additional accretion which would have been recognized on the transaction, except for that which was recorded after the transaction was consummated on April 1, 2010.

 
  For the Year Ended
December 31, 2010
 

Total investment income

  $ 537,488  

Net investment income

  $ 238,982  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations

  $ 479,979  

Net increase in stockholders' equity resulting from operations per share

  $ 2.51  

        Prior to the completion of the Allied Acquisition, the Company purchased $340,000 of assets from Allied Capital in arm's length transactions. Additionally, during the same period of time, IHAM purchased $69,000 of assets from Allied Capital, also in arm's length transactions.

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18.   LITIGATION

        The Company is party to certain lawsuits in the normal course of business. In addition, Allied Capital was involved in various legal proceedings that the Company assumed in connection with the Allied Acquisition. Furthermore, third parties may try to seek to impose liability on the Company in connection with the activities of its portfolio companies. While the outcome of any such legal proceedings cannot at this time be predicted with certainty, the Company does not expect that these legal proceedings will materially affect its business, financial condition or results of operations.

19.   SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

        The Company's management has evaluated subsequent events through the date of issuance of the consolidated financial statements included herein. There have been no subsequent events that occurred during such period that would require disclosure in this Form 10-K or would be required to be recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012, except as disclosed below.

        On January 25, 2013, Ares Capital and Ares Capital CP, entered into an amendment to the Revolving Funding Facility. The amendment, among other things, modified the interest charged on the Revolving Funding Facility from the previous applicable spreads of 2.50% over LIBOR and 1.50% over "base rate" (as defined in the agreements governing the Revolving Funding Facility) to applicable spreads ranging from 2.25% to 2.50% over LIBOR and ranging from 1.25% to 1.50% over "base rate," in each case, determined monthly based on the composition of the borrowing base relative to outstanding borrowings under the facility. After giving effect to the amendment and the relevant borrowing base and amounts outstanding thereunder, the interest charged on the Revolving Funding Facility as of January 25, 2013 was based on a spread over one-month LIBOR of 2.25% or a spread over "base rate" of 1.25%. As of such date, one-month LIBOR was 0.2037% and the "base rate" was 3.25%.

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SIGNATURES

        Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

  ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION

 

By:

 

/s/ MICHAEL J. AROUGHETI


Michael J. Arougheti
President
Dated: February 27, 2013

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

By:   /s/ MICHAEL J. AROUGHETI

Michael J. Arougheti
President (principal executive officer) and Director
Dated: February 27, 2013
   

By:

 

/s/ PENNI F. ROLL

Penni F. Roll
Chief Financial Officer (principal financial and accounting officer)
Dated: February 27, 2013

 

 

By:

 

/s/ STEVE BARTLETT

Steve Bartlett
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013

 

 

By:

 

/s/ ANN TORRE BATES

Ann Torre Bates
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013

 

 

By:

 

/s/ STEVEN B. MCKEEVER

Steven B. McKeever
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013

 

 

By:

 

/s/ FRANK E. O'BRYAN

Frank E. O'Bryan
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013

 

 

By:

 

/s/ ANTONY P. RESSLER

Antony P. Ressler
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013

 

 

By:   /s/ ROBERT L. ROSEN

Robert L. Rosen
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013
   

By:

 

/s/ BENNET ROSENTHAL

Bennett Rosenthal
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013

 

 

By:

 

/s/ ERIC B. SIEGEL

Eric B. Siegel
Director
Dated: February 27, 2013