Portfolio Construction

Why Portfolio Construction Matters (Last of a Series)

“Broadly syndicated loans are liquid, so have high volatility that exaggerates credit deterioration,” one market observer told us recently. “The middle market,” he continued, “is illiquid, so has low volatility which can mask credit deterioration.” How do PMs in these strategies manage through market volatility and maintain credit quality? Large cap loan buyers act like…

Why Portfolio Construction Matters (Third of a Series)

Many direct lenders have oriented their platforms around financing only businesses backed by private equity sponsors. While non-sponsored strategies have certain benefits, the presence of an owner with its own separate track record, select industry experience, and deal sourcing prowess to draft behind, gives relationship lenders distinct advantages. This is particularly true when it comes…

Why Portfolio Construction Matters (Second of a Series)

“What’s the key portfolio strategy managers should employ for success?” “Diversify!” That’s how one top PM answered our question. There are many levels and measures of diversity. You don’t want to be stuck with large exposures in any one industry, no matter how resilient it may seem. Healthcare, 20% of the US economy, is a…

Why Portfolio Construction Matters (First of a Series)

What makes for successful portfolio construction in private credit? That was one of the questions panelists addressed at the Private Credit Investor Summit last week. The issue carries more urgency amid current public market turmoil. Equities tumbled this week after a worse-than-expected May CPI report. Besides the number itself (8.6%), highest in four decades, the…