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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
 
Form 10-Q
 
 
(Mark One)
 
ý      QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018
 
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 number:
001-36299
 
 
Ladder Capital Corp
ladrlogo3312017a12.jpg
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
 
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
80-0925494
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)
 
 
 
345 Park Avenue, New York
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
10154
(Zip Code)
 
(212) 715-3170
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
 

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 (§ 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  ý  No  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth 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
 
 
Emerging growth company o

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 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
 
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
 
Class
 
Outstanding at May 3, 2018
Class A Common Stock, $0.001 par value
 
97,959,669
Class B Common Stock, $0.001 par value
 
13,317,419

 


Table of Contents

LADDER CAPITAL CORP
 
FORM 10-Q
March 31, 2018

Index
 
 
 
Page
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 




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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this “Quarterly Report”) includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this Quarterly Report, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, strategy and plans, and our expectations for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “can have,” “likely,” “continue,” “design,” and other words and terms of similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.
 
We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives and financial needs. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. Our future financial position and results of operations, as well as any forward-looking statements are subject to change and inherent risks and uncertainties. You should consider our forward-looking statements in light of a number of factors that may cause actual results to vary from our forward-looking statements including, but not limited to:
 
•
risks discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 (“Annual Report”), as well as our consolidated financial statements, related notes, and the other financial information appearing elsewhere in this Quarterly Report and our other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”);
•
changes in general economic conditions, in our industry and in the commercial finance and the real estate markets;
•
changes to our business and investment strategy;
•
our ability to obtain and maintain financing arrangements;
•
the financing and advance rates for our assets;
•
our actual and expected leverage and liquidity;
•
the adequacy of collateral securing our loan portfolio and a decline in the fair value of our assets;
•
interest rate mismatches between our assets and our borrowings used to fund such investments;
•
changes in interest rates and the market value of our assets;
•
changes in prepayment rates on our mortgages and the loans underlying our mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities;
•
the effects of hedging instruments and the degree to which our hedging strategies may or may not protect us from interest rate and credit risk volatility;
•
the increased rate of default or decreased recovery rates on our assets;
•
the adequacy of our policies, procedures and systems for managing risk effectively;
•
a potential downgrade in the credit ratings assigned to our investments;
•
our compliance with, and the impact of and changes in, governmental regulations, tax laws and rates, accounting guidance and similar matters;
•
our ability to maintain our qualification as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes and our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries to operate in compliance with REIT requirements;
•
our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries to maintain our and their exemptions from registration under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”);
•
potential liability relating to environmental matters that impact the value of properties we may acquire or the properties underlying our investments;
•
the inability of insurance covering real estate underlying our loans and investments to cover all losses;
•
the availability of investment opportunities in mortgage-related and real estate-related instruments and other securities;
•
fraud by potential borrowers;
•
the availability of qualified personnel;
•
the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and/or estimates concerning the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which are subject to change based on further analysis and/or IRS guidance;
•
the degree and nature of our competition; and
•
the market trends in our industry, interest rates, real estate values, the debt securities markets or the general economy.
 

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You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. In addition, neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report are made as of the date hereof, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements.

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REFERENCES TO LADDER CAPITAL CORP
 
Ladder Capital Corp is a holding company, and its primary assets are a controlling equity interest in Ladder Capital Finance Holdings LLLP (“LCFH” or the “Operating Partnership”) and in each series thereof, directly or indirectly. Unless the context suggests otherwise, references in this report to “Ladder,” “Ladder Capital,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer (1) prior to the February 2014 initial public offering (“IPO”) of the Class A common stock of Ladder Capital Corp and related transactions, to LCFH (“Predecessor”) and its consolidated subsidiaries and (2) after our IPO and related transactions, to Ladder Capital Corp and its consolidated subsidiaries.


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Part I - Financial Information
 
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)
 
The consolidated financial statements of Ladder Capital Corp and the notes related to the foregoing consolidated financial statements are included in this Item.
 
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



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Ladder Capital Corp
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
March 31, 2018(1)
 
December 31, 2017(1)
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
Assets
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
68,373

 
$
76,674

Restricted cash
44,786

 
106,009

Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 
 
 
Mortgage loans held by consolidated subsidiaries
3,528,185

 
3,282,462

Provision for loan losses
(7,000
)
 
(4,000
)
Mortgage loan receivables held for sale
273,636

 
230,180

Real estate securities
1,100,105

 
1,106,517

Real estate and related lease intangibles, net
980,859

 
1,032,041

Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures
34,564

 
35,441

FHLB stock
77,915

 
77,915

Derivative instruments
92

 
888

Accrued interest receivable
27,225

 
25,875

Other assets
102,554

 
55,613

Total assets
$
6,231,294

 
$
6,025,615

Liabilities and Equity
 

 
 

Liabilities
 

 
 

Debt obligations, net:
 
 
 
Secured and unsecured debt obligations
$
4,624,608

 
$
4,379,826

Due to brokers
—

 
14

Derivative instruments
—

 
2,606

Amount payable pursuant to tax receivable agreement
1,570

 
1,656

Dividends payable
1,228

 
30,528

Accrued expenses
38,941

 
59,619

Other liabilities
61,655

 
63,220

Total liabilities
4,728,002

 
4,537,469

Commitments and contingencies (Note 18)
—

 
—

Equity
 

 
 

Class A common stock, par value $0.001 per share, 600,000,000 shares authorized; 100,634,049 and 96,258,847 shares issued and 97,956,103 and 93,641,260 shares outstanding
99

 
94

Class B common stock, par value $0.001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 13,317,419 and 17,667,251 shares issued and outstanding
13

 
18

Additional paid-in capital
1,368,548

 
1,306,136

Treasury stock, 2,677,947 and 2,617,587 shares, at cost
(32,684
)
 
(31,956
)
Dividends in Excess of Earnings
(18,659
)
 
(39,112
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(7,880
)
 
(212
)
Total shareholders’ equity
1,309,437

 
1,234,968

Noncontrolling interest in operating partnership
184,201

 
240,861

Noncontrolling interest in consolidated joint ventures
9,654

 
12,317

Total equity
1,503,292

 
1,488,146

 
 
 
 
Total liabilities and equity
$
6,231,294

 
$
6,025,615

 
(1)
Includes amounts relating to consolidated variable interest entities. See Note 3.
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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Ladder Capital Corp
Consolidated Statements of Income
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share and Dividend Data)
(Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Net interest income
 

 
 

Interest income
$
78,206

 
$
57,512

Interest expense
44,713

 
31,415

Net interest income
33,493

 
26,097

Provision for loan losses
3,000

 
—

Net interest income after provision for loan losses
30,493

 
26,097

 
 
 
 
Other income
 

 
 

Operating lease income
24,560

 
19,630

Tenant recoveries
3,577

 
1,579

Sale of loans, net
4,888

 
(999
)
Realized gain (loss) on securities
(1,099
)
 
5,361

Unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities
204

 
159

Realized gain on sale of real estate, net
31,010

 
2,331

Fee and other income
6,252

 
4,466

Net result from derivative transactions
14,959

 
(1,981
)
Earnings (loss) from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
52

 
(74
)
Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt
(69
)
 
(54
)
Total other income
84,334

 
30,418

Costs and expenses
 

 
 

Salaries and employee benefits
17,096

 
16,042

Operating expenses
5,548

 
5,479

Real estate operating expenses
8,817

 
7,454

Fee expense
843

 
693

Depreciation and amortization
10,823

 
8,592

Total costs and expenses
43,127

 
38,260

Income (loss) before taxes
71,700

 
18,255

Income tax expense (benefit)
3,902

 
(1,375
)
Net income (loss)
67,798

 
19,630

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in consolidated joint ventures
(8,422
)
 
(322
)
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in operating partnership
(8,501
)
 
(5,838
)
Net income (loss) attributable to Class A common shareholders
$
50,875

 
$
13,470

 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
 

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Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Earnings per share:
 

 
 

Basic
$
0.53

 
$
0.18

Diluted
$
0.53

 
$
0.18

 
 
 
 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
 

 
 

Basic
95,187,316

 
72,871,990

Diluted
95,389,219

 
109,334,847

 
 
 
 
Dividends per share of Class A common stock (Note 12)
$
0.315

 
$
0.300


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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Ladder Capital Corp
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Dollars in Thousands)
(Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
67,798

 
$
19,630

 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 

 
 

Unrealized gain (loss) on securities, net of tax:
 

 
 

Unrealized gain (loss) on real estate securities, available for sale
(9,956
)
 
10,485

Reclassification adjustment for (gains) included in net income
1,099

 
(5,734
)
 
 
 
 
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
(8,857
)
 
4,751

 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income
58,941

 
24,381

Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in consolidated joint ventures
(8,422
)
 
(322
)
Comprehensive income of combined Class A common shareholders and Operating Partnership unitholders
$
50,519

 
$
24,059

Comprehensive (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest in operating partnership
(7,172
)
 
(7,472
)
Comprehensive income attributable to Class A common shareholders
$
43,347

 
$
16,587




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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Ladder Capital Corp
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
(Dollars and Shares in Thousands)
(Unaudited)

 
Shareholders’ Equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A Common Stock 
  
Class B Common Stock 
  
Additional Paid- 
in-Capital 
  
Treasury Stock 
 
Retained Earnings/(Dividends in Excess of Earnings) 
  
Accumulated 
Other 
Comprehensive 
Income (Loss) 
  
Noncontrolling Interests 
  
Total Shareholders’ 
Equity/Partners 
Capital 
Shares 
  
Par 
  
Shares 
  
Par 
  
  
 
  
  
Operating 
Partnership 
  
Consolidated 
Joint Ventures 
  
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Balance, December 31, 2017
93,641

 
$
94

 
17,668

 
$
18

 
$
1,306,136

 
$
(31,956
)
 
$
(39,112
)
 
$
(212
)
 
$
240,861

 
$
12,317

 
$
1,488,146

Contributions
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
2,635

 
2,635

Distributions
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(4,273
)
 
(13,720
)
 
(17,993
)
Amendment of the par value of the Class B shares from no par value per share to $0.001 per share
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Equity based compensation
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
2,400

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
2,400

Grants of restricted stock
25

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Purchase of treasury stock
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Re-issuance of treasury stock
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Shares acquired to satisfy minimum required federal and state tax withholding on vesting restricted stock and units
(49
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(728
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(728
)
Forfeitures
(11
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Dividends declared
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(30,422
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(30,422
)
Stock dividends
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Exchange of noncontrolling interest for common stock
4,350

 
5

 
(4,350
)
 
(5
)
 
60,110

 
—

 
—

 
(143
)
 
(59,654
)
 
—

 
313

Adjustment for deferred taxes/tax receivable agreement as a result of the exchange of Class B shares
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Net income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
50,875

 
—

 
8,501

 
8,422

 
67,798

Other comprehensive income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(7,528
)
 
(1,329
)
 
—

 
(8,857
)
Rebalancing of ownership percentage between Company and Operating Partnership
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(98
)
 
—

 
—

 
3

 
95

 
—

 
—

Balance, March 31, 2018
97,956

 
$
99

 
13,318

 
$
13

 
$
1,368,548

 
$
(32,684
)
 
$
(18,659
)
 
$
(7,880
)
 
$
184,201

 
$
9,654

 
$
1,503,292


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


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Ladder Capital Corp
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
(Dollars and Shares in Thousands)

 
Shareholders’ Equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A Common Stock 
  
Class B Common Stock 
  
Additional Paid- 
in-Capital 
  
Treasury Stock 
 
Retained Earnings/(Dividends in Excess of Earnings) 
  
Accumulated 
Other 
Comprehensive 
Income (Loss) 
  
Noncontrolling Interests 
  
Total Shareholders’ 
Equity/Partners 
Capital 
Shares 
  
Par 
  
Shares 
  
Par 
  
  
 
  
  
Operating 
Partnership 
  
Consolidated 
Joint Ventures 
  
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Balance, December 31, 2016
71,586

 
$
72

 
38,003

 
$
38

 
$
992,307

 
$
(11,244
)
 
$
(11,148
)
 
$
1,365

 
$
533,246

 
$
4,918

 
$
1,509,554

Contributions
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
7,479

 
7,479

Distributions
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(42,218
)
 
(306
)
 
(42,524
)
Equity based compensation
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
18,965

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
18,965

Grants of restricted stock
1,997

 
1

 
—

 
—

 
(1
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Purchase of treasury stock
(190
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(2,588
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(2,588
)
Shares acquired to satisfy minimum required federal and state tax withholding on vesting restricted stock and units
(1,323
)
 
(1
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(18,124
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(18,125
)
Forfeitures
(10
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Dividends declared
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(105,921
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(105,921
)
Stock dividends
814

 
1

 
432

 
1

 
17,317

 
—

 
(17,319
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Exchange of noncontrolling interest for common stock
20,767

 
21

 
(20,767
)
 
(21
)
 
280,714

 
—

 
—

 
1,696

 
(284,763
)
 
—

 
(2,353
)
Net income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
95,276

 
—

 
30,377

 
226

 
125,879

Other comprehensive income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(2,915
)
 
695

 
—

 
(2,220
)
Rebalancing of ownership percentage between Company and Operating Partnership
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(3,166
)
 
—

 
—

 
(358
)
 
3,524

 
—

 
—

Balance, December 31, 2017
93,641

 
$
94

 
17,668

 
$
18

 
$
1,306,136

 
$
(31,956
)
 
$
(39,112
)
 
$
(212
)
 
$
240,861

 
$
12,317

 
$
1,488,146


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.



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Ladder Capital Corp
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
 

 
 

Net income (loss)
$
67,798

 
$
19,630

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 

(Gain) loss on extinguishment of debt
69

 
54

Depreciation and amortization
10,823

 
8,592

Unrealized (gain) loss on derivative instruments
(1,772
)
 
5,649

Unrealized (gain) loss on Agency interest-only securities
(204
)
 
(159
)
Unrealized (gain) loss on investment in mutual fund
(43
)
 
(40
)
Provision for loan losses
3,000

 
—

Amortization of equity based compensation
2,400

 
7,254

Amortization of deferred financing costs included in interest expense
2,328

 
2,436

Amortization of premium on mortgage loan financing
(253
)
 
(226
)
Amortization of above- and below-market lease intangibles
(382
)
 
(25
)
Amortization of premium/(accretion) of discount and other fees on loans
(4,794
)
 
(2,468
)
Amortization of premium/(accretion) of discount and other fees on securities
1,000

 
1,483

Realized (gain) loss on sale of mortgage loan receivables held for sale
(4,888
)
 
999

Realized (gain) loss on real estate securities
1,099

 
(5,361
)
Realized gain on sale of real estate, net
(31,010
)
 
(2,331
)
Realized gain on sale of derivative instruments
(13
)
 
—

Origination of mortgage loan receivables held for sale
(532,878
)
 
(279,898
)
Repayment of mortgage loan receivables held for sale
133

 
247

Proceeds from sales of mortgage loan receivables held for sale
439,261

(1)
—

(Income) loss from investments in unconsolidated joint ventures in excess of distributions received
(52
)
 
74

Deferred tax asset (liability)
443

 
(2,728
)
Payments pursuant to tax receivable agreement
—

 
(230
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 

 
 

Accrued interest receivable
(1,349
)
 
(2,826
)
Other assets
6,157

 
29,476

Accrued expenses and other liabilities
(21,991
)
 
(22,781
)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
(65,118
)
 
(243,179
)
 
 
 
 

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Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 

 
 

Purchase of derivative instruments
—

 
(199
)
Sale of derivative instruments
114

 
—

Purchases of real estate securities
(135,072
)
 
(43,572
)
Repayment of real estate securities
2,954

 
74,285

Proceeds from sales of real estate securities
122,356

 
361,323

Origination of mortgage loan receivables held for investment
(434,632
)
 
(249,829
)
Repayment of mortgage loan receivables held for investment
194,303

 
68,251

Basis recovery of Agency interest-only securities
5,407

 
17,874

Capital distribution from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
1,250

 
—

Capitalization of interest on investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
(322
)
 
(234
)
Purchases of real estate
(24,466
)
 
(3,892
)
Capital improvements of real estate
(1,883
)
 
(752
)
Proceeds from sale of real estate
87,885

(2)
6,325

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(182,106
)
 
229,580

Cash flows from financing activities:
 

 
 

Deferred financing costs paid
(1,240
)
 
(8,143
)
Proceeds from borrowings under debt obligations
1,312,451

 
2,666,161

Repayment of borrowings under debt obligations
(1,057,704
)
 
(2,231,899
)
Cash dividends paid to Class A common shareholders
(59,721
)
 
(48,367
)
(Increase) decrease in amount due from trustee included in other assets
—

 
(302,281
)
Capital distributed to noncontrolling interests in operating partnership
(4,273
)
 
(21,034
)
Capital contributed by noncontrolling interests in consolidated joint ventures
2,635

 
—

Capital distributed to noncontrolling interests in consolidated joint ventures
(13,720
)
 
—

Payment of liability assumed in exchange for shares for the minimum withholding taxes on vesting restricted stock
(728
)
 
(13,258
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
177,700

 
41,179

Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(69,524
)
 
27,580

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period
182,683

 
89,428

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period
$
113,159

 
$
117,008

 
 
 
 

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Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Supplemental information:
 

 
 

Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized
$
57,406

 
$
26,773

Cash paid (received) for income taxes
90

 
(1,147
)
 
 
 
 
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
 

 
 

Securities and derivatives purchased, not settled
14

 
(2,167
)
Repayment in transit of mortgage loans receivable held for investment
54,803

 
—

Reduction in proceeds from sales of real estate
11,050

 
—

Transfer from mortgage loans receivable held for sale to mortgage loans receivable held for investment, at amortized cost
55,403

 
119,952

Assumption of debt obligations by real estate buyer
(11,050
)
 
—

Exchange of noncontrolling interest for common stock
59,658

 
93,691

Change in deferred tax asset related to exchanges of noncontrolling interest for common stock
(226
)
 
845

Increase in amount payable pursuant to tax receivable agreement
(86
)
 
40

Rebalancing of ownership percentage between Company and Operating Partnership
95

 
(4,219
)
Dividends declared, not paid
1,228

 
1,017

Stock dividends
—

 
17,319

 
(1)
Includes cash proceeds received in the current year that relate to prior year sales of loans of $0.5 million.
(2)
Includes cash proceeds received in the current year that relate to prior year sales of real estate of $1.4 million.

The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the consolidated balance sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts shown in the consolidated statement of cash flows ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
March 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
68,373

 
$
62,568

 
$
76,674

Restricted cash
44,786

 
54,440

 
106,009

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statement of cash flows
$
113,159

 
$
117,008

 
$
182,683



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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Ladder Capital Corp
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 
1. ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS
 
Ladder Capital Corp is an internally-managed real estate investment trust (“REIT”) that is a leader in commercial real estate finance. Ladder Capital Corp, as the general partner of Ladder Capital Finance Holdings LLLP (“LCFH,” “Predecessor” or the “Operating Partnership”), operates the Ladder Capital business through LCFH and its subsidiaries. As of March 31, 2018, Ladder Capital Corp has a 88.0% economic interest in LCFH and controls the management of LCFH as a result of its ability to appoint its board members. Accordingly, Ladder Capital Corp consolidates the financial results of LCFH and records noncontrolling interest for the economic interest in LCFH held by the Continuing LCFH Limited Partners (as defined below). In addition, Ladder Capital Corp, through certain subsidiaries which are treated as taxable REIT subsidiaries (each a “TRS”), is indirectly subject to U.S. federal, state and local income taxes. Other than the noncontrolling interest in the Operating Partnership and such indirect U.S. federal, state and local income taxes, there are no material differences between Ladder Capital Corp’s consolidated financial statements and LCFH’s consolidated financial statements.

Ladder Capital Corp was formed as a Delaware corporation on May 21, 2013. The Company conducted an initial public offering (“IPO”) which closed on February 11, 2014. The Company used the net proceeds from the IPO to purchase newly issued limited partnership units (“LP Units”) from LCFH. In connection with the IPO, Ladder Capital Corp also became a holding corporation and the general partner of, and obtained a controlling interest in, LCFH. Ladder Capital Corp’s only business is to act as the general partner of LCFH, and, as such, Ladder Capital Corp indirectly operates and controls all of the business and affairs of LCFH and its subsidiaries through its ability to appoint the LCFH board. The proceeds received by LCFH in connection with the sale of the LP Units have been and will be used for loan origination and related real estate business lines and for general corporate purposes. The IPO transactions described herein are referred to as the “IPO Transactions.”

In anticipation of the Company’s election to be subject to tax as a REIT under the Code beginning with its 2015 taxable year (the “REIT Election”), the Company effected an internal realignment as of December 31, 2014. As part of this realignment, LCFH and certain of its wholly-owned subsidiaries were serialized in order to segregate our REIT-qualified assets and income from the Company’s non-REIT-qualified assets and income. Pursuant to such serialization, all assets and liabilities of LCFH and each such subsidiary were identified as TRS assets and liabilities (e.g., conduit securitization and condominium sales businesses) and REIT assets and liabilities (e.g., balance sheet loans, real estate and most securities), and were allocated on the Company’s internal books and records into two pools within LCFH or such subsidiary, Series TRS and Series REIT (collectively, the “Series”), respectively. Series REIT and Series TRS have separate boards, officers, books and records, bank accounts, and tax identification numbers. Each outstanding LP Unit was exchanged for one Series REIT limited partnership unit (“Series REIT LP Unit”), which is entitled to receive profits and losses derived from REIT assets and liabilities, and one Series TRS limited partnership unit (“Series TRS LP Unit”), which is entitled to receive profits and losses derived from TRS assets and liabilities (Series REIT LP Units and Series TRS LP Units are collectively referred to as “Series Units”). Ladder Capital Corp remains the general partner of Series REIT of LCFH. LC TRS I LLC (“LC TRS I”), a Delaware limited liability company wholly-owned by Series REIT of LCFH, serves as the general partner of Series TRS of LCFH and Series TRS LP Units are exchangeable for an equal number of shares (“TRS Shares”) of LC TRS I (a “TRS Exchange”);

Ladder Capital Corp consolidates the financial results of LCFH and its subsidiaries. The ownership interest of certain existing owners of LCFH, who owned LP Units and an equivalent number of shares of Ladder Capital Corp Class B common stock as of the completion of the IPO (the “Continuing LCFH Limited Partners”) and continue to hold equivalent Series Units and Ladder Capital Corp Class B common stock, is reflected as a noncontrolling interest in Ladder Capital Corp’s consolidated financial statements.
 

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Pursuant to LCFH’s Third Amended and Restated LLLP Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2014 and as amended from time to time, and subject to the applicable minimum retained ownership requirements and certain other restrictions, including notice requirements, from time to time, Continuing LCFH Limited Partners (or certain transferees thereof)
may from time to time, subject to certain conditions, receive one share of the Company’s Class A common stock in exchange for (i) one share of the Company’s Class B common stock, (ii) one Series REIT LP Unit and (iii) either one Series TRS LP Unit or one TRS Share, subject to equitable adjustments for stock splits, stock dividends and reclassifications. However, such exchange for shares of Ladder Capital Corp Class A common stock will not affect the exchanging owners’ voting power since the votes represented by the canceled shares of Ladder Capital Corp Class B common stock will be replaced with the votes represented by the shares of Class A common stock for which such Series Units, including TRS Shares as applicable, will be exchanged.
 
As a result of the Company’s ownership interest in LCFH and LCFH’s election under Section 754 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), the Company expects to benefit from depreciation and other tax deductions reflecting LCFH’s tax basis for its assets. Those deductions will be allocated to the Company and will be taken into account in reporting the Company’s taxable income.

As of March 4, 2015, the Company made the necessary TRS and check-the-box elections began to elect to be taxed as a REIT starting with its tax return for the year ended December 31, 2015, filed in September 2016.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
Basis of Accounting and Principles of Consolidation
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). In the opinion of management, the unaudited financial information for the interim periods presented in this report reflects all normal and recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of results of operations, financial position and cash flows. The interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017, which are included in the Company’s Annual Report, as certain disclosures would substantially duplicate those contained in the audited consolidated financial statements have not been included in this interim report. Operating results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of operating results for an entire fiscal year. The interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared, without audit, and do not necessarily include all information and footnotes necessary for a fair statement of our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows in accordance with GAAP.

The consolidated financial statements include the Company’s accounts and those of its subsidiaries which are majority-owned and/or controlled by the Company and variable interest entities for which the Company has determined itself to be the primary beneficiary, if any. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
 
Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 810 — Consolidation (“ASC 810”), provides guidance on the identification of entities for which control is achieved through means other than voting rights (“variable interest entities” or “VIEs”) and the determination of which business enterprise, if any, should consolidate the VIEs. Generally, the consideration of whether an entity is a VIE applies when either: (1) the equity investors (if any) lack one or more of the essential characteristics of a controlling financial interest; (2) the equity investment at risk is insufficient to finance that entity’s activities without additional subordinated financial support; or (3) the equity investors have voting rights that are not proportionate to their economic interests and the activities of the entity involve or are conducted on behalf of an investor with a disproportionately small voting interest. The Company consolidates VIEs in which it is considered to be the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the entity that has both of the following characteristics: (1) the power to direct the activities that, when taken together, most significantly impact the VIE’s performance; and (2) the obligation to absorb losses and right to receive the returns from the VIE that would be significant to the VIE. See Note 3 for further information on the Company’s consolidated variable interest entities.

Noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries are defined as “the portion of the equity (net assets) in the subsidiaries not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent.” Noncontrolling interests are presented as a separate component of capital in the consolidated balance sheets. In addition, the presentation of net income attributes earnings to shareholders/unitholders (controlling interest) and noncontrolling interests.


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Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the balance sheets and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of resulting changes are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the period the changes are deemed to be necessary. Significant estimates made in the accompanying consolidated financial statements include, but are not limited to the following:
 
•
valuation of real estate securities;
•
allocation of purchase price for acquired real estate;
•
impairment, and useful lives, of real estate;
•
useful lives of intangible assets;
•
valuation of derivative instruments;
•
valuation of deferred tax asset (liability);
•
amounts payable pursuant to the Tax Receivable Agreement;
•
determination of effective yield for recognition of interest income;
•
adequacy of provision for loan losses;
•
determination of other than temporary impairment of real estate securities and investments in unconsolidated joint ventures;
•
certain estimates and assumptions used in the accrual of incentive compensation and calculation of the fair value of equity compensation issued to employees;
•
determination of the effective tax rate for income tax provision; and
•
certain estimates and assumptions used in the allocation of revenue and expenses for our segment reporting.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all investments with original maturities of three months or less, at the time of acquisition, to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash accounts at several financial institutions, which are insured up to a maximum of $250,000 per account as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, and at various times during the years, the balances exceeded the insured limits.
 
Restricted Cash 

Restricted cash is comprised of accounts the Company maintains with brokers to facilitate financial derivative and repurchase agreement transactions in support of its loan and securities investments and risk management activities. Based on the value of the positions in these accounts and the associated margin requirements, the Company may be required to deposit additional cash into these broker accounts. The cash collateral held by broker is considered restricted cash. Restricted cash also includes tenant security deposits, deposits related to real estate sales and acquisitions and required escrow balances on credit facilities. Prior to January 1, 2017, these amounts were previously recorded in other assets on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

Out-of-Period Adjustments

During the first quarter of 2017, the Company recorded an out-of-period adjustment to reduce depreciation expense of $0.8 million related to prior periods. The Company has concluded that this adjustment is not material to the financial position or results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 or any prior periods; accordingly, the Company recorded the related adjustment in the three month period ended March 31, 2017.

During the first quarter of 2018, the Company recorded an out-of-period adjustment to increase tenant real estate tax recoveries on a net lease property by $1.1 million, which was not billed until the three month period ended March 31, 2018, but related to prior periods. The Company has concluded that this adjustment is not material to the financial position or results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018 or any prior periods; accordingly, the Company recorded the related adjustment in the three month period ended March 31, 2018.


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Change in Accounting Principle

As more fully described in Note 4, on June 29, 2017, the Company completed its first sponsored securitization transaction whereby it transferred $625.7 million of loans to LCCM 2017-LC26 securitization trust. The Company initially concluded that the transfer restrictions placed on the Third Party Purchaser (“TPP”) of the risk retention securities, imposed by the risk retention rules of the Dodd-Frank Act, precluded sale accounting under ASC 860 and, accordingly, the Company originally accounted for the transaction as a financing in its interim financial statements for the periods ended June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2017. As a result of industry discussions, in November 2017 the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC staff”) indicated that, despite such restrictions, they would not take exception to a registrant treating such transfers as sales if they otherwise met all the criteria for sale accounting. The Company believes treatment of such transfers as sales is more consistent with the substance of such transaction and, accordingly, changed its accounting principle to treat such transfers as sales in the quarter ended December 31, 2017. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the Company reflected this change in accounting principle retrospectively to prior interim periods within 2017. The retrospective changes will be reflected in the Company’s quarterly reports for the quarters ended June 30, 2018 and September 30, 2018 to the comparable 2017 interim periods.

Reclassifications

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-09”), that outlined a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and superseded most then-current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. ASU 2014-09 is based on the principle that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The ASU also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to fulfill a contract. Entities have the option of using either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach for the adoption of the new standard. ASU 2014-09 was initially scheduled to become effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period; early adoption was not permitted. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) — Deferral of the Effective Date (“ASU 2015-14”), which deferred the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for one year and permitted early adoption as early as the original effective date of ASU 2014-09. The new revenue standard may be applied retrospectively to each prior period presented or retrospectively with the cumulative effect recognized as of the date of adoption. In 2016, the FASB issued additional guidance to clarify the implementation guidance, ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) (“ASU 2016-08”); ASU 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing (“ASU 2017-10”); ASU 2016-11, Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Meeting (SEC Update) (“ASU 2016-11”), ASU 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients (“ASU 2016-12”); and ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2016-20”). In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-05, Other Income—Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (Subtopic 610-20) (“ASU 2017-05”). In September 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-13, Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission f Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments (SEC Update) (“ASU 2017-13”). In November 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-14, Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), and Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (SEC Update) (“ASU 2017-14”). These amendments provide additional clarification and implementation guidance on the previously issued ASU 2014-09.


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Under the full retrospective method, a company will apply the rules to contracts in all reporting periods presented, subject to certain allowable exceptions. Under the modified retrospective method, a company will apply the rules to all contracts existing as of January 1, 2018, recognizing in beginning retained earnings an adjustment for the cumulative effect of the change and providing additional disclosures comparing results to previous rules. The Company believes the effects on its existing accounting policies will be associated with its non-leasing revenue components, specifically the amount, timing and presentation of tenant expense reimbursements revenue. The Company adopted the standard using the modified retrospective approach on January 1, 2018 and there was no cumulative effect adjustment recognized. The Company’s revenues impacted by this standard are included in tenant recoveries in the consolidated statements of income.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”), which was further amended in February and in March 2018 by ASU 2018-03, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Financial Instruments—Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Liabilities (“ASU 2018-03”) and ASU 2018-04, Investments—Debt Securities (Topic 320) and Regulated Operations (Topic 980): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 117 and SEC Release No. 33-9273 (SEC Update) (“ASU 2018-04”) to clarify certain aspects of ASU 2016-01 and to update Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) interpretive guidance in connection with the provisions of ASU 2016-01. These updates provide guidance for the recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments. Among other changes, the updates require public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes, and clarifies that entities should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available for sale securities in combination with the entities' other deferred tax assets. These standards are effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and for interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method. Upon adoption, the fair value of the Company's loan portfolio is now presented using an exit price method. Also, the Company is no longer required to disclose the methodologies used for estimating fair value of financial assets and liabilities that are not measured at fair value on a recurring or nonrecurring basis. The remaining requirements of this update did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718) (“ASU 2017-09”). The ASU provides clarification on when modification accounting should be used for changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award. ASU 2017-09 does not change the accounting for modifications but clarifies that modification accounting guidance should only be applied if there is a change to the value, vesting conditions or award classification and would not be required if the changes are considered non-substantive. The amendments of this ASU are effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018. The adoption of ASU 2017-09 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (“ASU 2016-02”), which sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases for both parties to a contract (i.e. lessees and lessors). The new standard requires lessees to apply a dual approach, classifying leases as either operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase by the lessee. This classification will determine whether lease expense is recognized based on an effective interest method or on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. A lessee is also required to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with a term greater than 12 months regardless of their classification. Leases with a term of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases today. The new standard requires lessors to account for leases using an approach that is substantially equivalent to existing guidance for sale-type leases, direct financing leases and operating leases. ASU 2016-02 supersedes the previous lease standard, Leases (Topic 840). The standard is effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, with an early adoption permitted. The Company continues to evaluate the effect the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on the Company’s financial position and/or results of operations. The Company currently believes that the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will not have a material impact for operating leases where it is a lessor and will continue to record revenues from rental properties for its operating leases on a straight-line basis. However, for leases where the Company is the lessee, primarily for the Company’s corporate headquarters and regional offices, the Company will measure the present value of the future lease payments and recognize a right-of-use asset and corresponding lease liability on its balance sheet.


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In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”). The guidance changes the impairment model for most financial assets. The new model uses a forward-looking expected loss method, which will generally result in earlier recognition of allowances for losses. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption is permitted for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company must apply the amendments in this update through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this standard on the consolidated financial statements. In general, the allowance for credit losses is expected to increase when changing from an incurred loss to expected loss methodology. The models and methodologies that are currently used in estimating the allowance for credit losses are being evaluated to identify the changes necessary to meet the requirements of the new standard. 

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) (“ASU 2017-04”). The ASU simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairment. The guidance removes Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test, which requires a hypothetical purchase price allocation. A goodwill impairment will now be the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. The guidance will be applied prospectively and is effective for annual or any interim goodwill impairment tests in years beginning after December 15, 2019 with early adoption permitted. The Company does not currently expect any impact on its consolidated financial statements as the Company (absent a business combination) has no recorded goodwill.

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-08, Receivables-Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20) (“ASU 2017-08”). The ASU shortens the amortization period for the premium on certain purchased callable debt securities to the earliest call date. Today, entities generally amortize the premium over the contractual life of the security. The new guidance does not change the accounting for purchased callable debt securities held at a discount; the discount continues to be amortized to maturity. ASU No. 2017-08 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018; early adoption is permitted. The guidance calls for a modified retrospective transition approach under which a cumulative-effect adjustment will be made to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is adopted. The Company is currently assessing the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements when adopted.

In July 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-11, Earnings Per Share (Topic 260), Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (Topic 480) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): I. Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Down Round Features; II. Replacement of the Indefinite Deferral for Mandatorily Redeemable Financial Instruments of Certain Nonpublic Entities and Certain Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests with a Scope Exception, (“ASU 2017-11”). Part I of this update addresses the complexity of accounting for certain financial instruments with down round features. Down round features are features of certain equity-linked instruments (or embedded features) that result in the strike price being reduced on the basis of the pricing of future equity offerings. Current accounting guidance creates cost and complexity for entities that issue financial instruments (such as warrants and convertible instruments) with down round features that require fair value measurement of the entire instrument or conversion option. Part II of this update addresses the difficulty of navigating Topic 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity, because of the existence of extensive pending content in the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. This pending content is the result of the indefinite deferral of accounting requirements about mandatorily redeemable financial instruments of certain nonpublic entities and certain mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests. The amendments in Part II of this update do not have an accounting effect. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact of adopting ASU 2017-11 on its financial statements and related disclosures.

In January 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-01, Land Easement Practical Expedient for Transition to Topic 842, (“ASU 2018-01”). This ASU provides an optional transition practical expedient that, if elected, would not require companies to reconsider their accounting for existing or expired land easements before adoption of Topic 842 and that were not previously accounted for as leases under Topic 840. This ASU will be effective January 1, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact of adopting ASU 2018-01 on its financial statements and related disclosures.

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), (“ASU 2018-02”). This ASU allows an entity to elect to reclassify the stranded tax effects related to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 from accumulated other comprehensive income into retained earnings. This ASU will be effective January 1, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. The Company is does not expect the adoption of ASU 2018-02 to have a material impact on its financial statements and related disclosures.

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In March 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-05, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SEC Update), (“ASU 2018-05”), which included amendments to SEC paragraphs pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”). The pronouncement addresses certain circumstances that may arise for registrants in accounting for the income tax effects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, including when certain income tax effects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are incomplete by the time financial statements are issued. The Company has complied with the amendments related to SAB 118, as discussed further in Note 16.

Any new accounting standards not disclosed above that have been issued or proposed by FASB and that do not require adoption until a future date are not expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements upon adoption.

3. CONSOLIDATED VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 810 — Consolidation (“ASC 810”), provides guidance on the identification of entities for which control is achieved through means other than voting rights (“variable interest entities” or “VIEs”) and the determination of which business enterprise, if any, should consolidate the VIEs. Generally, the consideration of whether an entity is a VIE applies when either: (1) the equity investors (if any) lack one or more of the essential characteristics of a controlling financial interest; (2) the equity investment at risk is insufficient to finance that entity’s activities without additional subordinated financial support; or (3) the equity investors have voting rights that are not proportionate to their economic interests and the activities of the entity involve or are conducted on behalf of an investor with a disproportionately small voting interest. The Company consolidates VIEs in which it is considered to be the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the entity that has both of the following characteristics: (1) the power to direct the activities that, when taken together, most significantly impact the VIE’s performance; and (2) the obligation to absorb losses and right to receive the returns from the VIE that would be significant to the VIE. The Operating Partnership is a VIE and as such, substantially all of the consolidated balance sheet is a consolidated VIE. In addition, the Operating Partnership consolidates the following CLO VIEs ($ in thousands):

 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
Notes 4 & 8
 
Notes 4 & 8
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost
$
881,719

 
880,385

Accrued interest receivable
4,427

 
4,252

Total assets
$
886,146

 
$
884,637

 
 
 
 
Senior and unsecured debt obligations
$
690,507

 
$
689,961

Accrued expenses
1,379

 
794

Total liabilities
691,887

 
690,755

 
 
 
 
Net equity in VIEs (eliminated in consolidation)
194,260

 
193,882

Total equity
194,260

 
193,882

 
 
 
 
Total liabilities and equity
$
886,147

 
$
884,637



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4. MORTGAGE LOAN RECEIVABLES
 
March 31, 2018 ($ in thousands)
 
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Carrying
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
 
Remaining
Maturity
(years)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loans held by consolidated subsidiaries(2)
$
3,550,544

 
$
3,528,185

 
7.34
%
 
1.59
Provision for loan losses
N/A

 
(7,000
)
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost
3,550,544

 
3,521,185

 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for sale
274,090

 
273,636

 
5.09
%
 
9.71
Total
$
3,824,634

 
$
3,794,821

 
7.19
%
 
2.18
 
(1)
March 31, 2018 London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) rates are used to calculate weighted average yield for floating rate loans.
(2)
Includes amounts relating to consolidated variable interest entities. See Note 3.

On June 29, 2017, the Company transferred its interests in $625.7 million of loans to the LCCM 2017-LC26 securitization trust. The assets transferred to the trust were comprised of 34 loans to third parties having a combined outstanding face amount of $549.0 million and a combined carrying value of $547.7 million as well as 23 former intercompany loans secured by certain of the Company’s real estate assets, having a combined principal balance of $76.7 million (which had not previously been recognized for accounting purposes because they eliminated in consolidation). In connection with this transaction, pursuant to the 5% risk retention requirement of the Dodd-Frank Act described in Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors,” in the Annual Report, the Company (i) retained a $12.9 million restricted “vertical interest” consisting of approximately 2% in each class of securities issued by the trust, which must be held by the Company until the principal balance of the pool has been reduced to a level prescribed by the risk retention rules and (ii) sold an approximately 3% restricted “horizontal interest” in the form of 98% of the controlling classes (excluding the 2% included in the vertical interest) to a TPP, which must be held by the TPP for at least five years. In addition, the Company purchased $62.7 million of securities issued by the trust, which are not restricted.

The Company initially concluded that the transfer restrictions placed on the TPP of the risk retention securities, imposed by the risk retention rules of the Dodd-Frank Act, precluded sale accounting under generally accepted accounting principles and, accordingly, the Company originally accounted for the transaction as a financing. As a result of industry discussions, in November 2017, the SEC staff indicated that, despite such restrictions, they would not take exception to a registrant treating such transfers as sales if they otherwise met all the criteria for sale accounting. The Company believes treatment of such transfers as sales is more consistent with the substance of such transaction, and accordingly, changed its accounting principles to treat such transfers as sales in the quarter ended December 31, 2017. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the Company reflected this change in accounting principle retrospectively to prior interim periods within 2017. The retrospective changes will be reflected in the Company’s quarterly reports for the quarters ended June 30, 2018 and September 30, 2018 to the comparable 2017 interim periods.

In connection with the securitization transaction, the former intercompany loans, which are secured by real estate properties still owned by the Company, will continue to be reported as a financing transaction. As a result of the change in accounting principle, the Company recognized a gain of $26.1 million on the transaction when it closed on June 29, 2017. In addition, upon consummation, the Company recognized $12.9 million and $62.7 million in restricted and unrestricted securities, respectively, which are included in real estate securities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The Company also recognized a liability for $78.8 million for 23 intercompany loans with a combined principal balance of $76.7 million.

As of March 31, 2018, $0.8 billion, or 22.8%, of the carrying value of our mortgage loan receivables held for investment, at amortized cost, were at fixed interest rates and $2.7 billion, or 77.2%, of the carrying value of our mortgage loan receivables held for investment, at amortized cost, were at variable interest rates, linked to LIBOR, some of which include interest rate floors. As of March 31, 2018, $273.6 million, or 100.0%, of the carrying value of our mortgage loan receivables held for sale were at fixed interest rates.

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Table of Contents

 
December 31, 2017 ($ in thousands)
 
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Carrying
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
 
Remaining
Maturity
(years)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loans held by consolidated subsidiaries
$
3,300,709

 
$
3,282,462

 
7.18
%
 
1.61
Provision for loan losses
N/A

 
(4,000
)
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost
3,300,709

 
3,278,462

 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for sale
232,527

 
230,180

 
4.88
%
 
8.17
Total
3,533,236

 
3,508,642

 
7.03
%
 
2.04
 
(1)
December 31, 2017 LIBOR rates are used to calculate weighted average yield for floating rate loans.
 
As of December 31, 2017, $0.7 billion, or 22.0%, of the carrying value of our mortgage loan receivables held for investment, at amortized cost, were at fixed interest rates and $2.6 billion, or 78.0%, of the carrying value of our mortgage loan receivables held for investment, at amortized cost, were at variable interest rates, linked to LIBOR, some of which include interest rate floors. As of December 31, 2017, $230.2 million, or 100%, of the carrying value of our mortgage loan receivables held for sale were at fixed interest rates.

The following table summarizes mortgage loan receivables by loan type ($ in thousands):
 
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Carrying
Value
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Carrying
Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

First mortgage loans
$
3,391,782

 
$
3,370,086

 
$
3,140,788

 
$
3,123,268

Mezzanine loans
158,762

 
158,099

 
159,921

 
159,194

Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost
3,550,544

 
3,528,185

 
3,300,709

 
3,282,462

Mortgage loan receivables held for sale
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

First mortgage loans
274,090

 
273,636

 
232,527

 
230,180

Total mortgage loan receivables held for sale
274,090

 
273,636

 
232,527

 
230,180

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for loan losses
N/A

 
(7,000
)
 
N/A

 
(4,000
)
Total
$
3,824,634

 
$
3,794,821

 
$
3,533,236

 
$
3,508,642



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For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the activity in our loan portfolio was as follows ($ in thousands):

 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 
 
 
Mortgage loans held by consolidated subsidiaries
 
Provision for loan losses
 
Mortgage loan 
receivables held
for sale
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2017
$
3,282,462

 
$
(4,000
)
 
$
230,180

Origination of mortgage loan receivables
434,632

 
—

 
532,878

Purchases of mortgage loan receivables
—

 
—

 
—

Repayment of mortgage loan receivables
(249,106
)
 
—

 
(133
)
Proceeds from sales of mortgage loan receivables
—

 
—

 
(438,774
)
Realized gain on sale of mortgage loan receivables(1)
—

 
—

 
4,888

Transfer between held for investment and held for sale(2)
55,403

 
—

 
(55,403
)
Accretion/amortization of discount, premium and other fees
4,794

 
—

 
—

Loan loss provision
—

 
(3,000
)
 
—

Balance, March 31, 2018
$
3,528,185

 
$
(7,000
)
 
$
273,636

 

(1)
Includes $0.5 million of realized losses on loans related to lower of cost or market adjustments for the three months ended March 31, 2018.
(2)
During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company reclassified from mortgage loan receivables held for sale to mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost, three loans with a combined outstanding face amount of $57.6 million, a combined book value of $55.4 million (fair value at date of reclassification) and a remaining maturity of 2.5 years. The loans had been recorded at lower of cost or market prior to their reclassification. The discount to fair value is the result of an increase in market interest rates since the loan’s origination and not a deterioration in credit of the borrower or collateral coverage and the Company expects to collect all amounts due under the loan. These transfers have been reflected as non-cash items on the consolidated statement of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 
 
 
Mortgage loans held by consolidated subsidiaries
 
Provision for loan losses
 
Mortgage loan
receivables held
for sale
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2016
$
2,000,095

 
$
(4,000
)
 
$
357,882

Origination of mortgage loan receivables
249,829

 
—

 
279,898

Repayment of mortgage loan receivables
(68,251
)
 
—

 
(247
)
Realized gain on sale of mortgage loan receivables(1)
—

 
—

 
(999
)
Transfer between held for investment and held for sale(2)
119,952

 
—

 
(119,952
)
Accretion/amortization of discount, premium and other fees
2,468

 
—

 
—

Balance, March 31, 2017
$
2,304,093

 
$
(4,000
)
 
$
516,582

 
(1)
Includes $1.0 million of realized losses on loans related to lower of cost or market adjustments for the three months ended March 31, 2017.
(2)
During the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company reclassified from mortgage loan receivables held for sale to mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost, a loan with an outstanding face amount of $120.0 million, a book value of $119.9 million (fair value at date of reclassification) and a remaining maturity of three years. The loan had been recorded at lower of cost or market prior to its reclassification. The discount to fair value is the result of an increase in market interest rates since the loan’s origination and not a deterioration in credit of the borrower or collateral coverage and the Company expects to collect all amounts due under the loan. This transfer has been reflected as a non-cash item on the consolidated statement of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017.


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Table of Contents

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the transfers of financial assets via sales of loans were treated as sales under ASC Topic 860 — Transfers and Servicing.

At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, there was $0.4 million and $0.2 million, respectively, of unamortized discounts included in our mortgage loan receivables held for investment, at amortized cost, on our consolidated balance sheets. 

The Company evaluates each of its loans for potential losses at least quarterly. Its loans are typically collateralized by real estate directly or indirectly. As a result, the Company regularly evaluates the extent and impact of any credit deterioration associated with the performance and/or value of the underlying collateral property, as well as the financial and operating capability of the borrower. Specifically, a property’s operating results and any cash reserves are analyzed and used to assess (i) whether cash flow from operations is sufficient to cover the debt service requirements currently and into the future, (ii) the ability of the borrower to refinance the loan at maturity, and/or (iii) the property’s liquidation value. The Company also evaluates the financial wherewithal of any loan guarantors as well as the borrower’s competency in managing and operating the properties. In addition, the Company considers the overall economic environment, real estate sector, and geographic sub-market in which the collateral property is located. Such impairment analyses are completed and reviewed by asset management personnel, who utilize various data sources, including (i) periodic financial data such as property occupancy, tenant profile, rental rates, operating expenses, the borrowers’ business plan, and capitalization and discount rates, (ii) site inspections, and (iii) current credit spreads and other market data. As a result of this analysis, the Company has concluded that none of its loans, other than the two loans discussed below, are individually impaired as of March 31, 2018 and none of its loans are individually impaired as of December 31, 2017.

In addition, based on the inherent risks shared among the loans as a group, it is probable that the loans had incurred an impairment due to common characteristics and inherent risks in the portfolio. Therefore, the Company has recorded a reserve of $0.3 million, based on a targeted percentage level which it seeks to maintain over the life of the portfolio, as disclosed in the tables below. Historically, with the exception of the two loans discussed below, the Company has not incurred losses on any originated loans.

As of March 31, 2018, two of the Company’s loans, which were originated simultaneously as part of a single transaction, and had a carrying value of $26.9 million, were in default. These loans are directly and indirectly secured by the same property and are considered collateral dependent because repayment is expected to be provided solely by the underlying collateral. At the time of the initial loan funding in July 2015, the borrowers faced an uncertain situation as the parent company of the sole tenant of the underlying retail property had just filed for bankruptcy protection. The tenant subsequently vacated the property and the original lease was terminated by the tenant as part of their bankruptcy proceedings. In response to default by the borrowers, the loans were accelerated in March 2016. Subsequently, in August 2016, the borrowers filed for bankruptcy protection. In September 2017, the bankruptcy court approved a replacement lease proposed by the mortgage borrower for the property. That tenant commenced paying rent in September 2017, retroactive to August 2017 as ordered by the bankruptcy court.

The Company placed these loans on non-accrual status in July 2017. In assessing these collateral dependent loans for collectability, the most significant consideration is the fair value of the underlying real estate collateral, which includes an in-place long-dated retail lease. The value of such properties are most significantly affected by the contractual lease payments and the appropriate market discount rates, which are driven by the general interest environment and the retail tenant’s credit worthiness. Through December 31, 2017, the Company believed no loss provision was necessary as the estimated fair value of the property less the cost to sell the same exceeded the combined carrying value of the loans.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, after considering the status of the on-going bankruptcy proceedings, rising interest rates and credit spreads for retail lease properties, the Company recorded a provision for loss on these loans of $2.7 million. The Company continues to pursue all of its legal remedies on these loans.

As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 there were no other loans on non-accrual status.
 

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Table of Contents

Provision for Loan Losses ($ in thousands)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Provision for loan losses at beginning of period
$
4,000

 
$
4,000

Provision for loan losses
3,000

 
—

Provision for loan losses at end of period
$
7,000

 
$
4,000

 

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Table of Contents

5. REAL ESTATE SECURITIES
 
Commercial mortgage backed securities (“CMBS”), CMBS interest-only securities, Agency securities, Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) construction securities and Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) permanent securities are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in the current period in other comprehensive income. GNMA and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp (“FHLMC”) securities (collectively, “Agency interest-only securities”) are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings. The following is a summary of the Company’s securities at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 ($ in thousands):

March 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Unrealized
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted Average
Asset Type
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Amortized
Cost Basis
 
Gains
 
Losses
 
Carrying
Value
 
# of
Securities
 
Rating (1)
 
Coupon %
 
Yield %
 
Remaining
Duration
(years)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMBS(2)
 
$
983,104

 
$
991,436

 
$
331

 
$
(9,483
)
 
$
982,284

(3)
98

 
AAA
 
3.34
%
 
2.89
%
 
2.93
CMBS interest-only(2)(4)
 
2,492,711

 
79,162

 
192

 
(319
)
 
79,035

(5)
21

 
AAA
 
0.87
%
 
3.46
%
 
2.99
GNMA interest-only(4)(6)
 
165,307

 
4,540

 
142

 
(707
)
 
3,975

 
13

 
AA+
 
0.57
%
 
6.60
%
 
4.04
Agency securities(2)
 
706

 
727

 
—

 
(29
)
 
698

 
2

 
AA+
 
2.80
%
 
1.77
%
 
2.78
GNMA permanent securities(2)
 
33,472

 
33,757

 
468

 
(112
)
 
34,113

 
6

 
AA+
 
3.97
%
 
3.62
%
 
5.50
Total
 
$
3,675,300

 
$
1,109,622

 
$
1,133

 
$
(10,650
)
 
$
1,100,105

 
140

 
 
 
1.54
%
 
2.96
%
 
3.02
 
(1)
Represents the weighted average of the ratings of all securities in each asset type, expressed as an S&P equivalent rating.  For each security rated by multiple rating agencies, the highest rating is used.  Ratings provided were determined by third-party rating agencies as of a particular date, may not be current and are subject to change (including the assignment of a “negative outlook” or “credit watch”) at any time.
(2)
CMBS, CMBS interest-only securities, Agency securities, and GNMA permanent securities are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in the current period in other comprehensive income.
(3)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities that were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are designated as risk retention securities under the Dodd-Frank Act and are therefore subject to transfer restrictions over the term of the securitization trust and are classified as held-to-maturity and reported at amortized cost. Includes $11.5 million of such restricted securities.
(4)
The amounts presented represent the principal amount of the mortgage loans outstanding in the pool in which the interest-only securities participate.
(5)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities that were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are designated as risk retention securities under the Dodd-Frank Act and are therefore subject to transfer restrictions over the term of the securitization trust and are classified as held-to-maturity and reported at amortized cost. Includes $1.0 million of such restricted securities.
(6)
Agency interest-only securities are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings. The Company’s Agency interest-only securities are considered to be hybrid financial instruments that contain embedded derivatives. As a result, the Company accounts for them as hybrid instruments in their entirety at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities in the consolidated statements of income in accordance with ASC 815.
  

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Table of Contents

December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Unrealized
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted Average
Asset Type
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Amortized
Cost Basis
 
Gains
 
Losses
 
Carrying
Value
 
# of
Securities
 
Rating (1)
 
Coupon %
 
Yield %
 
Remaining
Duration
(years)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMBS(2)
 
$
945,167

 
$
954,397

 
$
2,748

 
$
(3,646
)
 
$
953,499

(3)
96

 
AAA
 
3.28
%
 
2.79
%
 
2.89
CMBS interest-only(2)(4)
 
3,140,297

 
112,609

 
796

 
(334
)
 
113,071

(5)
25

 
AAA
 
0.81
%
 
3.16
%
 
3.08
GNMA interest-only(4)(6)
 
172,916

 
5,245

 
157

 
(925
)
 
4,477

 
13

 
AA+
 
0.58
%
 
6.70
%
 
4.18
Agency securities(2)
 
720

 
743

 
—

 
(15
)
 
728

 
2

 
AA+
 
2.82
%
 
1.80
%
 
2.94
GNMA permanent securities(2)
 
33,745

 
34,386

 
595

 
(239
)
 
34,742

 
6

 
AA+
 
3.98
%
 
3.62
%
 
5.66
Total
 
$
4,292,845

 
$
1,107,380

 
$
4,296

 
$
(5,159
)
 
$
1,106,517

 
142

 
 
 
1.37
%
 
2.87
%
 
3.00
 
(1)
Represents the weighted average of the ratings of all securities in each asset type, expressed as an S&P equivalent rating.  For each security rated by multiple rating agencies, the highest rating is used.  Ratings provided were determined by third-party rating agencies as of a particular date, may not be current and are subject to change (including the assignment of a “negative outlook” or “credit watch”) at any time.
(2)
CMBS, CMBS interest-only securities, Agency securities, and GNMA permanent securities are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in the current period in other comprehensive income.
(3)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities which were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are designated as risk retention securities under the Dodd-Frank Act which are subject to transfer restrictions over the term of the securitization trust and are classified as held-to-maturity and reported at amortized cost. Includes $11.7 million of such restricted securities.
(4)
The amounts presented represent the principal amount of the mortgage loans outstanding in the pool in which the interest-only securities participate.
(5)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities which were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are designated as risk retention securities under the Dodd-Frank Act which are subject to transfer restrictions over the term of the securitization trust and are classified as held-to-maturity and reported at amortized cost. Includes $1.1 million of such restricted securities.
(6)
Agency interest-only securities are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings. The Company’s Agency interest-only securities are considered to be hybrid financial instruments that contain embedded derivatives. As a result, the Company accounts for them as hybrid instruments in their entirety at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities in the consolidated statements of income in accordance with ASC 815.
 
The following is a breakdown of the carrying value of the Company’s securities by remaining maturity based upon expected cash flows at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
Asset Type
 
Within 1 year
 
1-5 years
 
5-10 years
 
After 10 years
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMBS(1)
 
$
291,904

 
$
516,442

 
$
173,938

 
$
—

 
$
982,284

CMBS interest-only(1)
 
334

 
78,701

 
—

 
—

 
79,035

GNMA interest-only(2)
 
74

 
3,440

 
452

 
9

 
3,975

Agency securities(1)
 
—

 
698

 
—

 
—

 
698

GNMA permanent securities(1)
 
—

 
1,713

 
32,400

 
—

 
34,113

Total
 
$
292,312

 
$
600,994

 
$
206,790

 
$
9

 
$
1,100,105

 

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December 31, 2017
 
Asset Type
 
Within 1 year
 
1-5 years
 
5-10 years
 
After 10 years
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMBS(1)
 
$
285,982

 
$
544,278

 
$
123,239

 
$
—

 
$
953,499

CMBS interest-only(1)
 
537

 
112,534

 
—

 
—

 
113,071

GNMA interest-only(2)
 
76

 
3,906

 
484

 
11

 
4,477

Agency securities(1)
 
—

 
728

 
—

 
—

 
728

GNMA permanent securities(1)
 
—

 
1,797

 
32,945

 
—

 
34,742

Total
 
$
286,595

 
$
663,243

 
$
156,668

 
$
11

 
$
1,106,517

 
(1)
CMBS, CMBS interest-only securities, Agency securities, and GNMA permanent securities are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in the current period in other comprehensive income.
(2)
Agency interest-only securities are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings.

There were $1.0 million and $0.4 million of realized losses on securities recorded as other than temporary impairments for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The determination of whether a security is other-than-temporarily impaired involves judgments and assumptions based on subjective and objective factors. Consideration is given to (i) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospects of recovery in fair value of the security, and (iii) the Company’s intent to sell the security and whether it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. The Company has no intention to sell the securities before recovery of its amortized cost basis. For cash flow statement purposes, all receipts of interest from interest-only real estate securities are treated as part of cash flows from operations.


29
Table of Contents

6. REAL ESTATE AND RELATED LEASE INTANGIBLES, NET

The following tables present additional detail related to our real estate portfolio ($ in thousands):

 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
Land
$
173,811

 
$
213,992

Building
793,504

 
789,622

In-place leases and other intangibles
179,418

 
189,490

Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization
(165,874
)
 
(161,063
)
Real estate and related lease intangibles, net
$
980,859

 
$
1,032,041

 
 
 
 
Below market lease intangibles, net (other liabilities)
$
(42,000
)
 
$
(42,607
)

The following table presents depreciation and amortization expense on real estate recorded by the Company ($ in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Depreciation expense (1)
$
7,786

 
$
5,720

Amortization expense
3,018

 
2,849

Total real estate depreciation and amortization expense
$
10,804

 
$
8,569

 
(1)
Depreciation expense on the consolidated statements of income also includes $19 thousand and $23 thousand of depreciation on corporate fixed assets for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

The Company’s intangible assets are comprised of in-place leases, favorable leases compared to market leases and other intangibles. At March 31, 2018, gross intangible assets totaled $179.4 million with total accumulated amortization of $61.1 million, resulting in net intangible assets of $118.3 million, including $6.1 million of unamortized favorable lease intangibles which are included in real estate and related lease intangibles, net on the consolidated balance sheets. At December 31, 2017, gross intangible assets totaled $189.5 million with total accumulated amortization of $60.9 million, resulting in net intangible assets of $128.6 million, including $8.9 million of unamortized favorable lease intangibles which are included in real estate and related lease intangibles, net on the consolidated balance sheets. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded a net reduction in operating lease income of $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively, for amortization of above market lease intangibles acquired. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded a net increase in operating lease income of $0.6 million and $0.3 million, for amortization of below market lease intangibles acquired, respectively.
 
The following table presents expected amortization expense during the next five years and thereafter related to the acquired in-place lease intangibles for property owned as of March 31, 2018 ($ in thousands):
Period Ending December 31,
 
Amount
 
 
 
2018 (last 9 months)
 
$
7,049

2019
 
9,389

2020
 
9,249

2021
 
8,637

2022
 
6,359

Thereafter
 
72,296

Total
 
$
112,979



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There were $0.7 million and $0.9 million of unbilled rent receivables included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

There was unencumbered real estate of $96.5 million and $128.7 million as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.
 
The following is a schedule of non-cancellable, contractual, future minimum rent under leases (excluding property operating expenses paid directly by tenant under net leases or rent escalations under other leases from tenants) at March 31, 2018 ($ in thousands):
 
Period Ending December 31,
 
Amount
 
 
 
2018 (last 9 months)
 
$
75,456

2019
 
95,873

2020
 
88,398

2021
 
86,142

2022
 
80,847

Thereafter
 
564,298

Total
 
$
991,014


Acquisitions

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company acquired the following property ($ in thousands):

Acquisition Date
 
Type
 
Primary Location(s)
 
Purchase Price
 
Ownership Interest (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 2018
 
Diversified
 
Lithia Springs, GA
 
$
24,466

 
70.6%
Total
 
 
 
$
24,466

 
 
 
(1)
Property was consolidated as of acquisition date.

On October 1, 2016, the Company early adopted ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business (“ASU 2017-01”). As a result of this adoption, acquisitions of real estate may not meet the revised definition of a business and may be treated as asset acquisitions rather than business combinations. The measurement of assets and liabilities acquired will no longer be recorded at fair value and the Company will now allocate purchase consideration based on relative fair values. Real estate acquisition costs which are no longer expensed as incurred, will be capitalized as a component of the cost of the assets acquired. During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, all acquisitions were determined to be asset acquisitions.

The purchase prices were allocated to the asset acquisitions during the three months ended March 31, 2018, as follows ($ in thousands):
 
 
Purchase Price Allocation
 
 
 
Land
 
$
2,939

Building
 
21,527

Intangibles(1)
 
—

Below Market Lease Intangibles
 
—

Total purchase price
 
$
24,466

 
(1)
No intangibles allocated to purchase price as property was acquired vacant.

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The Company recorded no revenues from its 2018 acquisitions for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The Company recorded $(0.3) million in earnings (losses) from its 2018 acquisitions for the three months ended March 31, 2018, which is included in its consolidated statements of income.

During the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company acquired the following properties ($ in thousands):

Acquisition Date
 
Type
 
Primary Location(s)
 
Purchase Price
 
Ownership Interest (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
February 2017
 
Net Lease
 
Carmi, IL
 
$
1,411

 
100.0%
February 2017
 
Net Lease
 
Peoria, IL
 
1,183

 
100.0%
March 2017
 
Net Lease
 
Ridgedale, MO
 
1,298

 
100.0%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total
 
 
 
$
3,892

 
 
 
(1)
Properties were consolidated as of acquisition date.

The purchase prices were allocated to the asset acquisitions during the three months ended March 31, 2017, as follows ($ in thousands):
 
 
Purchase Price Allocation
 
 
 
Land
 
$
744

Building
 
2,777

Intangibles
 
559

Below Market Lease Intangibles
 
(188
)
Total purchase price
 
$
3,892


The weighted average amortization period for intangible assets acquired during the three months ended March 31, 2017 was 34.2 years. The Company recorded $36 thousand in revenues from its 2017 acquisitions for the three months ended March 31, 2017, which is included in its consolidated statements of income. The Company recorded $36 thousand in earnings (losses) from its 2017 acquisitions for the three months ended March 31, 2017, which is included in its consolidated statements of income.
 
Sales

The Company sold the following properties during the three months ended March 31, 2018 ($ in thousands):

Sales Date
 
Type
 
Primary Location(s)
 
Net Sales Proceeds
 
Net Book Value
 
Realized Gain/(Loss)
 
Properties
 
Units Sold
 
Units Remaining
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Various
 
Condominium
 
Las Vegas, NV
 
$
1,811

 
$
732

 
$
1,079

 
—

 
2

 
11

Various
 
Condominium
 
Miami, FL
 
2,263

 
1,792

 
471

 
—

 
8

 
40

March 2018
 
Diversified
 
El Monte, CA
 
71,807

 
52,610

 
19,197

 
1

 
—

 
—

March 2018
 
Diversified
 
Richmond, VA
 
21,632

 
11,370

 
10,262

 
1

 
—

 
—

Totals
 
 
 
 
 
$
97,513

 
$
66,504

 
$
31,009

 
 
 
 
 
 


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The Company sold the following properties during the three months ended March 31, 2017 ($ in thousands):

Sales Date
 
Type
 
Primary Location(s)
 
Net Sales Proceeds
 
Net Book Value
 
Realized Gain/(Loss)
 
Properties
 
Units Sold
 
Units Remaining
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Various
 
Condominium
 
Las Vegas, NV
 
$
4,200

 
$
2,320

 
$
1,880

 
—

 
12

 
47

Various
 
Condominium
 
Miami, FL
 
2,125

 
1,674

 
451

 
—

 
6

 
82

Totals
 
 
 
 
 
$
6,325

 
$
3,994

 
$
2,331

 
 
 
 
 
 

7. INVESTMENT IN UNCONSOLIDATED JOINT VENTURES
 
As of March 31, 2018, the Company had an aggregate investment of $34.6 million in its equity method joint ventures with unaffiliated third parties.
 
The following is a summary of the Company’s investments in unconsolidated joint ventures, which we account for using the equity method, as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
Entity
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
Grace Lake JV, LLC
 
$
3,925

 
$
4,908

24 Second Avenue Holdings LLC
 
30,639

 
30,533

Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
 
$
34,564

 
$
35,441

 
The following is a summary of the Company’s allocated earnings (losses) based on its ownership interests from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
Entity
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
Grace Lake JV, LLC
 
$
267

 
$
238

24 Second Avenue Holdings LLC
 
(215
)
 
(312
)
Earnings (loss) from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
 
$
52

 
$
(74
)

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company received a $1.3 million distribution from its investment in Grace Lake JV, LLC.
 
Grace Lake JV, LLC
 
In connection with the origination of a loan in April 2012, the Company received a 25% equity kicker with the right to convert upon a capital event. On March 22, 2013, the loan was refinanced, and the Company converted its interest into a 19% limited liability company membership interest in Grace Lake JV, LLC (“Grace Lake LLC”), which holds an investment in an office building complex. After taking into account the preferred return of 8.25% and the return of all equity remaining in the property to the Company’s operating partner, the Company is entitled to 25% of the distribution of all excess cash flows and all disposition proceeds upon any sale. The Company is not legally required to provide any future funding to Grace Lake JV. The Company accounts for its interest in Grace Lake JV using the equity method of accounting, as it has a 19% investment, compared to the 81% investment of its operating partner and does not control the entity.

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Table of Contents


The Company’s investment in Grace Lake LLC is an unconsolidated joint venture, which is a VIE for which the Company is not the primary beneficiary. This joint venture was deemed to be a VIE primarily based on the fact there are disproportionate voting and economic rights within the joint venture. The Company determined that it was not the primary beneficiary of this VIE based on the fact that the Company has a passive investment and no control of this entity and therefore does not have controlling financial interests in this VIE. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss is limited to its investment in the VIE. The Company has not provided financial support to this VIE that it was not previously contractually required to provide.

24 Second Avenue Holdings LLC

On August 7, 2015, the Company entered into a joint venture, 24 Second Avenue Holdings LLC (“24 Second Avenue”), with an operating partner to invest in a ground-up condominium construction and development project located at 24 Second Avenue, New York, NY. The Company accounts for its interest in 24 Second Avenue using the equity method of accounting as its joint venture partner is the managing member of 24 Second Avenue and has substantive participating rights. The Company contributed $31.1 million for a 73.8% interest, with the operating partner holding the remaining 26.2% interest. The Company is entitled to income allocations and distributions based upon its membership interest of 73.8% until the Company achieves a 1.70x profit multiple, after which, income is allocated and distributed 50% to the Company and 50% to the operating partner.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 the Company recorded $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively, in expenses, which is recorded in earnings (loss) from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures in the consolidated statements of income. The Company capitalizes interest related to the cost of its investment, as 24 Second Avenue has activities in progress necessary to construct and ultimately sell condominium units. During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company capitalized $0.3 million and $0.2 million, respectively, of interest expense, using a weighted average interest rate, which is recorded in investment in unconsolidated joint ventures in the consolidated balance sheets.

As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, 24 Second Avenue had $39.0 million and $36.5 million, respectively, of loans payable to third party lenders. As of December 31, 2016, the previously existing building had been demolished and the site was cleared with all supportive excavation work completed, and we are anticipating completion of the new construction in 2018. 24 Second Avenue consists of 31 residential condominium units and one commercial condominium unit. As of March 31, 2018, 11 residential condominium units were under contract for sale for $30.4 million in sales proceeds. As of March 31, 2018, the Company is holding a 10.0% deposit on each sales contract. Our operating partner entered into a construction loan in the amount of $50.5 million to fund the completion of the project. As of March 31, 2018, draws of $39.0 million have been taken against the construction loan. The Company has no remaining capital commitment to our operating partner.

The Company’s investment in 24 Second Avenue is an unconsolidated joint venture, which is a VIE for which the Company is not the primary beneficiary. This joint venture was deemed to be a VIE primarily based on the fact there are disproportionate voting and economic rights within the joint venture. The Company determined that it was not the primary beneficiary of this VIE based on the fact that the Company has shared control of this entity along with the entity’s partner and therefore does not have controlling financial interests in this VIE. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss is limited to its investment in the VIE. The Company has not provided financial support to this VIE that it was not previously contractually required to provide. In general, future costs of development not financed through a third party will be funded with capital contributions from the Company and its outside partner in accordance with their respective ownership percentages.


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Table of Contents

Combined Summary Financial Information for Unconsolidated Joint Ventures

The following is a summary of the combined financial position of the unconsolidated joint ventures in which the Company had investment interests as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
 
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
 
$
153,122

 
$
154,979

Total liabilities
 
110,291

 
108,119

Partners’/members’ capital
 
$
42,831

 
$
46,860


The following is a summary of the combined results from operations of the unconsolidated joint ventures for the period in which the Company had investment interests during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017($ in thousands):
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
Total revenues
 
$
4,349

 
$
3,791

Total expenses
 
3,572

 
5,798

Net income (loss)
 
$
777

 
$
(2,007
)

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Table of Contents

8. DEBT OBLIGATIONS, NET

The details of the Company’s debt obligations at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
Debt Obligations
 
Committed Financing
 
Debt Obligations Outstanding
 
Committed but Unfunded
 
Interest Rate at March 31, 2018(1)
 
Current Term Maturity
 
Remaining Extension Options
 
Eligible Collateral
 
Carrying Amount of Collateral
 
Fair Value of Collateral
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
$
600,000

 
$
212,023

 
$
387,977

 
 3.53% - 4.28%
 
10/1/2020
 
(2)
 
(3)
 
$
348,473

 
$
347,019

 
Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
450,000

 
154,077

 
295,923

 
 3.93% - 4.78%
 
5/24/2018
 
(4)
 
(3)
 
280,892

 
282,231


Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
300,000

 
84,687

 
215,313

 
 3.78% - 5.03%
 
4/7/2019
 
(5)
 
(6)
 
137,421

 
137,983


Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
200,000

 
80,536

 
119,464

 
 4.31% - 4.81%
 
2/29/2020
 
(7)
 
(8)
 
122,123

 
122,099


Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
100,000

 
19,200

 
80,800

 
4.28%
 
6/28/2019
 
N/A
 
(3)
 
25,371

 
25,371

 
Total Committed Loan Repurchase Facilities
 
1,650,000

 
550,523

 
1,099,477

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
914,280

 
914,703

 
Committed Securities Repurchase Facility
 
400,000

 
98,762

 
301,238

 
 2.36% - 2.56%
 
9/30/2019
 
 N/A
 
(9)
 
119,600

 
119,600

 
Uncommitted Securities Repurchase Facility
 
 N/A (10)

 
105,092

 
 N/A (10)

 
 2.39% - 3.69%
 
4/2018 - 6/2018
 
 N/A
 
(9)
 
119,969

 
119,969

(11)(12)
Total Repurchase Facilities
 
2,050,000

 
754,377

 
1,400,715

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,153,849

 
1,154,272

 
Revolving Credit Facility
 
241,430

 
—

 
241,430

 
 NA
 
2/11/2019
 
(13)
 
 N/A (14)
 
 N/A (14)

 
 N/A (14)

 
Mortgage Loan Financing
 
683,487

 
683,487


—

 
  4.25% - 6.75%
 
2020 - 2028
 
 N/A
 
(15)
 
895,786

 
1,056,848

(16)
CLO Debt
 
683,095

 
683,095

(17)
—

 
 2.67% - 5.39%
 
2021-2034
 
N/A
 
(18)
 
881,719

 
882,114

 
Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable
 
2,815

 
2,815

 
—

 
17.00%
 
6/6/2018
 
  N/A
 
(3)
 
2,815

 
2,815

 
Borrowings from the FHLB
 
1,933,522

 
1,348,000

 
585,522

 
  0.87% - 2.74%
 
2018 - 2024
 
 N/A
 
(19)
 
1,827,338

 
1,830,545

(20)
Senior Unsecured Notes
 
1,166,201

 
1,152,834

(21)
—

 
 5.250% - 5.875%
 
2021 - 2025
 
 N/A
 
 N/A (22)
 
 N/A (22)

 
 N/A (22)

 
Total Debt Obligations
 
$
6,760,550

 
$
4,624,608

 
$
2,227,667

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
4,761,507

 
$
4,926,594

 
 
(1)
March 2018 LIBOR rates are used to calculate interest rates for floating rate debt.
(2)
Two additional 12-month periods at Company’s option. No new advances are permitted after the initial maturity date.
(3)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans and senior and pari passu interests therein. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(4)
Three additional 12-month periods at Company’s option.
(5)
One additional 364-day periods at Company’s option and one additional 364-day period with Bank’s consent.
(6)
First mortgage and mezzanine commercial real estate loans. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(7)
One additional 12-month extension period and two additional 6-month extension periods at Company’s option.
(8)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(9)
Commercial real estate securities. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such securities.
(10)
Represents uncommitted securities repurchase facilities for which there is no committed amount subject to future advances.
(11)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities which were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are restricted. Includes $2.6 million of restricted securities.
(12)
Includes $6.0 million of securities purchased in the secondary market of the Company’s October 2017 CLO issuance. These securities are not included in real estate securities, available-for-sale but were rather considered a retirement of CLO Debt.
(13)
Two additional 12-month periods at Company’s option.

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Table of Contents

(14)
The obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries and secured by equity pledges in certain Company subsidiaries.
(15)
Real estate.
(16)
Using undepreciated carrying value of commercial real estate to approximate fair value.
(17)
Presented net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $5.4 million at March 31, 2018.
(18)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans and pari passu interests therein. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(19)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans and investment grade commercial real estate securities. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans and securities.
(20)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities which were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are restricted. Includes $9.9 million of restricted securities.
(21)
Presented net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $13.4 million at March 31, 2018.
(22)
The obligations under the senior unsecured notes are guaranteed by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries.

December 31, 2017
Debt Obligations
 
Committed Financing
 
Debt Obligations Outstanding
 
Committed but Unfunded
 
Interest Rate at December 31, 2017(1)
 
Current Term Maturity
 
Remaining Extension Options
 
Eligible Collateral
 
Carrying Amount of Collateral
 
Fair Value of Collateral
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
$
600,000

 
$
120,493

 
$
479,507

 
 3.23% - 3.98%
 
10/1/2020
 
(2)
 
(3)
 
$
160,031

 
$
159,568

 
Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
450,000

 
183,111

 
266,889

 
 3.63% - 4.48%
 
5/24/2018
 
(4)
 
(3)
 
333,647

 
335,076

 
Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
300,000

 
63,007

 
236,993

 
 3.73% - 4.73%
 
4/10/2018
 
(5)
 
(6)
 
125,379

 
125,975


Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
200,000

 
32,042

 
167,958

 
 4.25% - 4.50%
 
2/29/2020
 
(7)
 
(8)
 
48,045

 
48,045

 
Committed Loan Repurchase Facility
 
100,000

 
—

 
100,000

 
NA
 
6/28/2019
 
N/A
 
(3)
 
—

 
—


Total Committed Loan Repurchase Facilities
 
1,650,000

 
398,653

 
1,251,347

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
667,102

 
668,664

 
Committed Securities Repurchase Facility
 
400,000

 
—

 
400,000

 
 NA
 
9/30/2019
 
 N/A
 
(9)
 
—

 
—

 
Uncommitted Securities Repurchase Facility
 
 N/A (10)

 
74,757

 
 N/A (10)

 
  1.65% - 3.31%
 
1/2018 - 3/2018
 
 N/A
 
(9)
 
86,322

 
86,322

(11)
Total Repurchase Facilities
 
2,050,000

 
473,410

 
1,651,347

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
753,424

 
754,986

 
Revolving Credit Facility
 
241,430

 
—

 
241,430

 
 NA
 
2/11/2018
 
(4)
 
 N/A (12)
 
  N/A (14)

 
  N/A (14)

 
Mortgage Loan Financing
 
692,696

 
692,696

 
—

 
  4.25% - 6.75%
 
2018 - 2027
 
 N/A
 
(13)
 
911,034

 
1,066,708

(14)
CLO Debt
 
688,479

 
688,479

(15
)
—

 
 2.36% - 5.08%
 
2021-2034
 
N/A
 
(16)
 
880,385

 
881,576

 
Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable
 
3,107

 
3,107

 
—

 
17.00%
 
6/6/2018
 
  N/A
 
(3)
 
3,107

 
3,107

 
Borrowings from the FHLB
 
2,000,000

 
1,370,000

 
630,000

 
  0.87% - 2.74%
 
2018 - 2024
 
 N/A
 
(17)
 
1,777,597

 
1,783,210

(18)
Senior Unsecured Notes
 
1,166,201

 
1,152,134

(19)
—

 
 5.250% - 5.875%
 
2021 - 2025
 
 N/A
 
 N/A (20)
 
 N/A (20)

 
 N/A (20)

 
Total Debt Obligations
 
$
6,841,913

 
$
4,379,826

 
$
2,522,777

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
4,325,547

 
$
4,489,587

 
 
(1)
December 31, 2017 LIBOR rates are used to calculate interest rates for floating rate debt.
(2)
Two additional 12-month periods at Company’s option. No new advances are permitted after the initial maturity date.
(3)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans and senior and pari passu interests therein. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(4)
Three additional 12-month periods at Company’s option.
(5)
Two additional 364-day periods at Company’s option and one additional 364-day period with Bank’s consent.
(6)
First mortgage and mezzanine commercial real estate loans. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(7)
One additional 12-month extension period and two additional 6-month extension periods at Company’s option.

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Table of Contents

(8)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(9)
Commercial real estate securities. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such securities.
(10)
Represents uncommitted securities repurchase facilities for which there is no committed amount subject to future advances.
(11)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities which were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are restricted. Includes $26.7 million of restricted securities.
(12)
The obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries and secured by equity pledges in certain Company subsidiaries.
(13)
Real estate.
(14)
Using undepreciated carrying value of commercial real estate to approximate fair value.
(15)
Presented net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $6.0 million at December 31, 2017.
(16)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans and pari passu interests therein. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans.
(17)
First mortgage commercial real estate loans and investment grade commercial real estate securities. It does not include the real estate collateralizing such loans and securities.
(18)
As more fully described in Note 4, certain securities which were purchased from the LCCM LC-26 securitization trust are restricted. Includes $10.1 million of restricted securities.
(19)
Presented net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $14.1 million at December 31, 2017.
(20)
The obligations under the senior unsecured notes are guaranteed by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries.

Committed Loan and Securities Repurchase Facilities
 
The Company has entered into multiple committed master repurchase agreements in order to finance its lending activities. The Company has entered into five committed master repurchase agreements, as outlined in the March 31, 2018 table above, totaling $1.7 billion of credit capacity. Assets pledged as collateral under these facilities are limited to whole mortgage loans or participation interests in mortgage loans collateralized by first liens on commercial properties and mezzanine debt. The Company also has a term master repurchase agreement with a major U.S. bank to finance CMBS totaling $400.0 million. The Company’s repurchase facilities include covenants covering net worth requirements, minimum liquidity levels, maximum leverage ratios, and minimum fixed charge coverage ratios. The Company believes it was in compliance with all covenants as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
 
The Company has the option to extend some of the current facilities subject to a number of conditions, including satisfaction of certain notice requirements, no event of default exists, and no margin deficit exists, all as defined in the repurchase facility agreements. The lenders have sole discretion with respect to the inclusion of collateral in these facilities, to determine the market value of the collateral on a daily basis, to be exercised on a good faith basis, and have the right in certain cases to require additional collateral, a full and/or partial repayment of the facilities (margin call), or a reduction in unused availability under the facilities, sufficient to rebalance the facilities if the estimated market value of the included collateral declines.

On February 22, 2017, the Company exercised a one year extension option on one of its committed loan repurchase facilities. In connection with this extension, the Company elected to reduce the maximum capacity of the facility to $300.0 million. In addition, on March 21, 2017, the Company amended this committed loan repurchase facility to, among other things, add one additional 364-day extension period at Company’s option and one additional 364-day extension period permitted with lender’s consent.

On March 1, 2017, the Company executed an amendment and extension of one of its credit facilities with a major banking institution, providing for, among other things, the extension of the maximum term of the facility to February 28, 2022 and increasing the maximum funding capacity to $200.0 million.

On May 1, 2017, the Company executed an amendment to one of its credit facilities with a major banking institution to, among other things, extend the maximum term by an additional year to May 24, 2021.

On September 29, 2017, the Company executed an amendment to its committed securities repurchase facility with a major banking institution, providing for, among other things, the extension of the maximum term of the facility to September 30, 2019.

Effective September 30, 2017, the Company executed an amendment of one of its committed loan repurchase facilities with a major banking institution, providing for, among other things, the extension of the maximum term of the facility to October 1, 2022, inclusive of two 12-month extension options, and to extend of the final date to obtain new advances under the facility to October 1, 2020.


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On January 4, 2018, the Company executed an amendment to its committed loan repurchase facility with a major banking institution, providing for, among other things, the extension of the maximum term of the facility to April 7, 2019.

As of March 31, 2018, we had repurchase agreements with eight counterparties, with total debt obligations outstanding of $754.4 million. As of March 31, 2018, two counterparties, Deutsche Bank and Wells Fargo, held collateral that exceeded the amounts borrowed under the related repurchase agreements by more than $75.2 million, or 5% of our total equity. As of March 31, 2018, the weighted average haircut, or the percent of collateral value in excess of the loan amount, under our repurchase agreements was 34.6%. There have been no significant fluctuations in haircuts across asset classes on our repurchase facilities.

Revolving Credit Facility
 
On February 11, 2014, the Company entered into a revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”), which was subsequently amended on February 26, 2016, March 1, 2017, March 23, 2017, September 29, 2017 and October 27, 2017, to add additional banks to our syndicate, add two additional one-year extension options and increase its maximum funding capacity. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for an aggregate maximum borrowing amount of $241.4 million, including a $25.0 million sublimit for the issuance of letters of credit. The Revolving Credit Facility is available on a revolving basis to finance the Company’s working capital needs and for general corporate purposes. The Revolving Credit Facility has a maturity date of February 11, 2019, which may be extended by two 12-month periods subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, including the absence of default. Interest on the Revolving Credit Facility is one-month LIBOR plus 3.50% per annum payable monthly in arrears.
 
The obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. The Revolving Credit Facility is secured by a pledge of the shares of (or other ownership or equity interests in) certain subsidiaries to the extent the pledge is not restricted under existing regulations, law or contractual obligations.
 
LCFH is subject to customary affirmative covenants and negative covenants, including limitations on the incurrence of additional debt, liens, restricted payments, sales of assets and affiliate transactions. In addition, under the Revolving Credit Facility, LCFH is required to comply with financial covenants relating to minimum net worth, maximum leverage, minimum liquidity, and minimum fixed charge coverage, consistent with our other credit facilities. The Company’s ability to borrow under the Revolving Credit Facility is dependent on, among other things, LCFH’s compliance with the financial covenants. The Revolving Credit Facility contains customary events of default, including non-payment of principal or interest, fees or other amounts, failure to perform or observe covenants, cross-default to other indebtedness, the rendering of judgments against the Company or certain of our subsidiaries to pay certain amounts of money and certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency.

Debt Issuance Costs

As discussed in Note 2, Significant Accounting Policies in the Annual Report, the Company considers its committed loan master repurchase facilities and Revolving Credit Facility to be revolving debt arrangements. As such, the Company continues to defer and present costs associated with these facilities as an asset, subsequently amortizing those costs ratably over the term of each revolving debt arrangement. As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the amount of unamortized costs relating to such facilities are $7.4 million and $7.8 million, respectively, and are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets.

Uncommitted Securities Repurchase Facilities
 
The Company has also entered into multiple master repurchase agreements with several counterparties collateralized by real estate securities. The borrowings under these agreements have typical advance rates between 75% and 95% of the fair value of collateral.


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Table of Contents

Mortgage Loan Financing
 
During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company executed three term debt agreements to finance properties in its real estate portfolio. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company did not execute any term debt agreements to finance properties in its real estate portfolio. These non-recourse debt agreements provide for fixed rate financing at rates, ranging from 4.25% to 6.75%, maturing between 2020 - 2028 as of March 31, 2018. These loans have carrying amounts of $683.5 million and $692.7 million, net of unamortized premiums of $6.3 million and $6.6 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, representing proceeds received upon financing greater than the contractual amounts due under these agreements. The premiums are being amortized over the remaining life of the respective debt instruments using the effective interest method. The Company recorded $0.3 million and $0.2 million of premium amortization, which decreased interest expense, for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The loans are collateralized by real estate and related lease intangibles, net, of $895.8 million and $911.0 million as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

CLO Debt

The Company completed its inaugural collateralized loan obligation (“CLO”) issuances in the two transactions described below. As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company had a total of $683.1 million and $688.5 million, respectively, of floating rate, non-recourse CLO debt included in debt obligations on its consolidated balance sheets. Unamortized debt issuance costs of $5.4 million and $6.0 million are included in CLO Debt as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, in accordance with GAAP. As of March 31, 2018, the CLO debt has interest rates of 2.67% to 5.39% (with a weighted average of 3.64%). As of March 31, 2018, collateral for the CLO debt comprised $881.7 million of first mortgage commercial mortgage real estate loans.

On October 17, 2017, a consolidated subsidiary of the Company consummated a securitization of floating-rate commercial mortgage loans through a static CLO structure. Over $456.9 million of balance sheet loans (“Contributed Loans”) were contributed into the CLO. Certain of the Contributed Loans have future funding components that were not contributed to the CLO and that are retained by a consolidated subsidiary of the Company in the form of a participation interest or separate note. However, for a limited period of time, to the extent loans in the CLO are repaid, the CLO may acquire portions of the future fundings from the Company’s consolidated subsidiary. A consolidated subsidiary of the Company retained an approximately 18.5% interest in the CLO by retaining the most subordinate classes of notes issued by the CLO, retains control over major decisions made with respect to the administration of the Contributed Loans and appoints the special servicer under the CLO. The CLO is a VIE and the Company is the primary beneficiary and, therefore, consolidates the VIE - See Note 3.

On December 21, 2017, a subsidiary of the Company consummated a securitization of fixed and floating-rate commercial mortgage loans through a static CLO structure. Over $431.5 million of Contributed Loans were contributed into the CLO. Certain of the Contributed Loans have future funding components that were not contributed to the CLO and that are retained by a consolidated subsidiary of the Company in the form of a participation interest or separate note. However, for a limited period of time, to the extent loans in the CLO are repaid, the CLO may acquire portions of the future fundings from the Company’s consolidated subsidiary. A consolidated subsidiary of the Company retained an approximately 25% interest in the CLO by retaining the most subordinate classes of notes issued by the CLO, retains control over major decisions made with respect to the administration of the Contributed Loans and appoints the special servicer under the CLO. The CLO is a VIE and the Company is the primary beneficiary and, therefore, consolidates the VIE - See Note 3.

Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company sold a participating interest in a first mortgage loan receivable to a third party. The sales proceeds of $4.0 million are considered non-recourse secured borrowings and are recognized in debt obligations on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets with $2.8 million outstanding as of March 31, 2018. The Company recorded $0.1 million of interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2018.


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Borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”)
 
On July 11, 2012, Tuebor Captive Insurance Company LLC (“Tuebor”), a consolidated subsidiary of the Company, became a member of the FHLB and subsequently drew its first secured funding advances from the FHLB. On December 6, 2017, Tuebor’s advance limit was updated by the FHLB to the lowest of a Set Dollar Limit ($2.0 billion), 40% of Tuebor’s total assets or 150% of the Company’s total equity. Beginning April 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020, the Set Dollar Limit will be $1.5 billion. Beginning January 1, 2021 through February 19, 2021, the Set Dollar Limit will be $750.0 million. Tuebor is well-positioned to meet its obligations and pay down its advances in accordance with the scheduled reduction in the Set Dollar Limit, which remains subject to revision by the FHLB or as a result of any future changes in applicable regulations. 

As of March 31, 2018, Tuebor had $1.3 billion of borrowings outstanding (with an additional $585.5 million of committed term financing available from the FHLB), with terms of overnight to six years (with a weighted average of 2.4 years), interest rates of 0.87% to 2.74% (with a weighted average of 1.82%), and advance rates of 52.0% to 95.2% of the collateral. As of March 31, 2018, collateral for the borrowings was comprised of $837.2 million of CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities and $990.1 million of first mortgage commercial real estate loans.

As of December 31, 2017, Tuebor had $1.4 billion of borrowings outstanding (with an additional $630.0 million of committed term financing available from the FHLB), with terms of overnight to six years (with a weighted average of 2.5 years), interest rates of 0.87% to 2.74% (with a weighted average of 1.61%), and advance rates of 49.6% to 100% of the collateral. As of December 31, 2017, collateral for the borrowings was comprised of $861.7 million of CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities and $915.9 million of first mortgage commercial real estate loans.
 
Tuebor is subject to state regulations which require that dividends (including dividends to the Company as its parent) may only be made with regulatory approval. However, there can be no assurance that we would obtain such approval if sought. Largely as a result of this restriction, approximately $1.3 billion of the member’s capital was restricted from transfer via dividend to Tuebor’s parent without prior approval of state insurance regulators at March 31, 2018. To facilitate intercompany cash funding of operations and investments, Tuebor and its parent maintain regulator-approved intercompany borrowing/lending agreements.

Effective February 19, 2016, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (the “FHFA’’), regulator of the FHLB, adopted a final rule amending its regulation regarding the eligibility of captive insurance companies for FHLB membership. According to the final rule, Ladder’s captive insurance company subsidiary, Tuebor may remain as a member of the FHLB through February 19, 2021 (the “Transition Period”). During the Transition Period, Tuebor is eligible to continue to draw new additional advances, extend the maturities of existing advances, and pay off outstanding advances on the same terms as non-captive insurance company FHLB members with the following two exceptions:

1.
New advances (including any existing advances that are extended during the Transition Period) will have maturity dates on or before February 19, 2021; and
2.
The FHLB will make new advances to Tuebor subject to a requirement that Tuebor’s total outstanding advances do not exceed 40% of Tuebor’s total assets.

Tuebor has executed new advances since the effective date of the new rule in the ordinary course of business.

FHLB advances amounted to 29.1% of the Company’s outstanding debt obligations as of March 31, 2018. The Company does not anticipate that the FHFA’s final regulation will materially impact its operations as it will continue to access FHLB advances during the five-year Transition Period.

There is no assurance that the FHFA or the FHLB will not take actions that could adversely impact Tuebor’s membership in the FHLB and continuing access to new or existing advances prior to February 19, 2021.


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Senior Unsecured Notes
LCFH issued the 2025 Notes, the 2022 Notes, the 2021 Notes and the 2017 Notes (each as defined below, and collectively, the “Notes”) with Ladder Capital Finance Corporation (“LCFC”), as co-issuers on a joint and several basis. LCFC is a 100% owned finance subsidiary of Series TRS of LCFH with no assets, operations, revenues or cash flows other than those related to the issuance, administration and repayment of the Notes. The Company and certain subsidiaries of LCFH currently guarantee the obligations under the Notes and the indenture. The Company is the general partner of LCFH and, through LCFH and its subsidiaries, operates the Ladder Capital business. As of March 31, 2018, the Company has a 88.0% economic and voting interest in LCFH and controls the management of LCFH as a result of its ability to appoint board members. Accordingly, the Company consolidates the financial results of LCFH and records noncontrolling interest for the economic interest in LCFH held by the Continuing LCFH Limited Partners. In addition, the Company, through certain subsidiaries which are treated as TRSs, is indirectly subject to U.S. federal, state and local income taxes. Other than the noncontrolling interest in the Operating Partnership and federal, state and local income taxes, there are no material differences between the Company’s consolidated financial statements and LCFH’s consolidated financial statements. The Company believes it was in compliance with all covenants of the Notes as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
 
Unamortized debt issuance costs of $13.4 million and $14.1 million are included in senior unsecured notes as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, in accordance with GAAP.

2017 Notes

On September 19, 2012, LCFH issued $325.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.375% senior notes due October 1, 2017 (the “2017 Notes”). The 2017 Notes required interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on September 19, 2012. The 2017 Notes were unsecured and subject to incurrence-based covenants, including limitations on the incurrence of additional debt, restricted payments, liens, sales of assets, affiliate transactions and other covenants typical for financings of this type. At any time on or after April 1, 2017, the 2017 Notes were redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, without penalty. On November 5, 2014, the board of directors authorized the Company to make up to $325.0 million in repurchases of the 2017 Notes from time to time without further approval.

On December 17, 2014, the Company retired $5.4 million of principal of the 2017 Notes for a repurchase price of $5.6 million recognizing a $0.2 million loss on extinguishment of debt. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company retired $21.9 million of principal of the 2017 Notes for a repurchase price of $21.4 million, recognizing a $0.3 million net gain on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $(0.2) million of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt.

On March 1, 2017, the Company delivered a notice of conditional full redemption to holders of the 2017 Notes, pursuant to which the Company redeemed all outstanding 2017 Notes at 100% of the principal amount thereof (plus any accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date) as of April 1, 2017. The redemption was conditional on the completion by the Company of a senior notes offering with gross proceeds of not less than $500 million. The Company’s offering of the 2022 Notes, described below, satisfied this condition. On April 3, 2017, the Company retired the remaining $297.7 million of principal of the 2017 Notes for a repurchase price of $297.7 million, recognizing a $53,547 net loss on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $(22,847) of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt.

2021 Notes

On August 1, 2014, LCFH issued $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.875% senior notes due August 1, 2021 (the “2021 Notes”). The 2021 Notes require interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning on February 1, 2015. The 2021 Notes will mature on August 1, 2021. The 2021 Notes are unsecured and are subject to incurrence-based covenants, including limitations on the incurrence of additional debt, restricted payments, liens, sales of assets, affiliate transactions and other covenants typical for financings of this type. At any time on or after August 1, 2020, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, without penalty. On February 24, 2016, the board of directors authorized the Company to make up to $100.0 million in repurchases of the 2021 Notes from time to time without further approval.


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During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company retired $33.8 million of principal of the 2021 Notes for a repurchase price of $28.2 million, recognizing a $5.1 million net gain on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $(0.4) million of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt. As of March 31, 2018, the remaining $266.2 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes is due August 1, 2021.

2022 Notes

On March 16, 2017, LCFH issued $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.250% senior notes due March 15, 2022 (the “2022 Notes”). The 2022 Notes require interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, beginning on September 15, 2017. The 2022 Notes will mature on March 15, 2022. The 2022 Notes are unsecured and are subject to an unencumbered assets to unsecured debt covenant. At any time on or after September 15, 2021, the 2022 Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 15 nor more than 60 days’ notice, without penalty.

2025 Notes

On September 25, 2017, LCFH issued $400.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.250% senior notes due October 1, 2025 (the “2025 Notes”). The 2025 Notes require interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on April 1, 2018. The 2025 Notes will mature on October 1, 2025. The 2025 Notes are unsecured and are subject to an unencumbered assets to unsecured debt covenant. The Company may redeem the 2025 Notes, in whole, at any time, or from time to time, prior to their stated maturity. The 2025 Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 15 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes plus the Applicable Premium (as defined in the indenture governing the 2025 Notes) as of, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

Combined Maturity of Debt Obligations

The following schedule reflects the Company’s contractual payments under all borrowings by maturity ($ in thousands):
 
Period ending December 31,
 
Borrowings by
Maturity(1)
 
 
 

2018 (last 9 months)
 
$
1,076,682

2019
 
474,749

2020
 
552,290

2021
 
612,634

2022
 
656,768

Thereafter
 
1,263,918

Subtotal
 
$
4,637,041

Debt issuance costs included in senior unsecured notes
 
(13,366
)
Debt issuance costs included in CLO debt
 
(5,373
)
Premiums included in mortgage loan financing(2)
 
6,306

Total
 
4,624,608

 
(1)
Contractual payments under current maturities, some of which are subject to extensions. The maturities listed above for 2018 relate to debt obligations that are subject to existing Company controlled extension options for one or more additional one-year periods or could be refinanced by other existing facilities as of March 31, 2018.
(2)
Deferred gains on intercompany loans, secured by our own real estate, sold into securitizations. Premium is amortized as a reduction to interest expense.

The Company’s debt facilities are subject to covenants which require the Company to maintain a minimum level of total equity. Largely as a result of this restriction, approximately $780.0 million of the total equity is restricted from payment as a dividend by the Company at March 31, 2018.


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9. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
 
Fair value is based upon market quotations, broker quotations, counterparty quotations or pricing services quotations, which provide valuation estimates based upon reasonable market order indications and are subject to significant variability based on market conditions, such as interest rates, credit spreads and market liquidity.  The fair value of the mortgage loan receivables held for sale is based upon a securitization model utilizing market data from recent securitization spreads and pricing.
 
Fair Value Summary Table
 
The carrying values and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments, which are both reported at fair value on a recurring basis (as indicated) or amortized cost/par, at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted Average
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Amortized
Cost Basis
 
Fair Value
 
Fair Value Method
 
Yield
%
 
Remaining
Maturity/Duration (years)
Assets:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
CMBS(1)
$
983,104

 
$
991,436

 
$
982,284

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
2.89
%
 
2.93
CMBS interest-only(1)
2,492,711

(2)
79,162

 
79,035

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
3.46
%
 
2.99
GNMA interest-only(3)
165,307

(2)
4,540

 
3,975

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
6.60
%
 
4.04
Agency securities(1)
706

 
727

 
698

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
1.77
%
 
2.78
GNMA permanent securities(1)
33,472

 
33,757

 
34,113

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
3.62
%
 
5.50
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost
3,550,544

 
3,528,185

 
3,532,369

 
Discounted Cash Flow(4)
 
7.34
%
 
1.59
Provision for loan losses
 N/A

 
(7,000
)
 
(7,000
)
 
(5)
 
N/A

 
N/A
Mortgage loan receivables held for sale
274,090

 
273,636

 
279,372

 
Internal model, third-party inputs(6)
 
5.09
%
 
9.71
FHLB stock(7)
77,915

 
77,915

 
77,915

 
(7)
 
4.25
%
 
 N/A
Nonhedge derivatives(1)(8)
713,900

 
 N/A

 
92

 
Counterparty quotations
 
N/A

 
0.25
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
Repurchase agreements - short-term
491,939

 
491,939

 
491,939

 
Discounted Cash Flow(9)
 
3.25
%
 
0.23
Repurchase agreements - long-term
262,438

 
262,438

 
262,438

 
Discounted Cash Flow(10)
 
2.60
%
 
1.89
Mortgage loan financing
695,163

 
683,487

 
668,790

 
Discounted Cash Flow(10)
 
4.91
%
 
2.71
CLO debt
683,095

 
683,095

 
683,095

 
Discounted Cash Flow(9)
 
3.64
%
 
10.47
Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable
2,815

 
2,815

 
2,815

 
Discounted Cash Flow(11)
 
17.00
%
 
0.18
Borrowings from the FHLB
1,348,000

 
1,348,000

 
1,326,100

 
Discounted Cash Flow
 
1.82
%
 
2.44
Senior unsecured notes
1,166,201

 
1,152,834

 
1,150,860

 
Broker quotations, pricing services
 
5.39
%
 
5.03
 
(1)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) in equity.
(2)
Represents notional outstanding balance of underlying collateral.
(3)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded in current period earnings.
(4)
Fair value for floating rate mortgage loan receivables, held for investment is estimated to approximate the outstanding face amount given the short interest rate reset risk (30 days) and no significant change in credit risk. Fair value for fixed rate mortgage loan receivables, held for investment is measured using a hypothetical securitization model utilizing market data from recent securitization spreads and pricing.
(5)
Fair value is estimated to equal par value.
(6)
Fair value for mortgage loan receivables, held for sale is measured using a hypothetical securitization model utilizing market data from recent securitization spreads and pricing.
(7)
Fair value of the FHLB stock approximates outstanding face amount as the Company’s captive insurance subsidiary is restricted from trading the stock and can only put the stock back to the FHLB, at the FHLB’s discretion, at par.
(8)
The outstanding face amount of the nonhedge derivatives represents the notional amount of the underlying contracts.
(9)
Fair value for repurchase agreement liabilities and CLO debt is estimated to approximate carrying amount primarily due to the short interest rate reset risk (30 days) of the financings and the high credit quality of the assets collateralizing these positions. If the collateral is determined to be impaired, the related financing would be revalued accordingly. There are no impairments on any positions.

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(10)
For repurchase agreements - long term and mortgage loan financing, the carrying value approximates the fair value discounting the expected cash flows at current market rates. If the collateral is determined to be impaired, the related financing would be revalued accordingly. There are no impairments on any positions.
(11)
Fair value for Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable approximates amortized cost as this is a loan participation to a third party.

December 31, 2017  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted Average
 
Outstanding
Face Amount
 
Amortized
Cost Basis
 
Fair Value
 
Fair Value Method
 
Yield
%
 
Remaining
Maturity/Duration (years)
Assets:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
CMBS(1)
$
945,167

 
$
954,397

 
$
953,499

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
2.79
%
 
2.89
CMBS interest-only(1)
3,140,297

(2)
112,609

 
113,071

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
3.16
%
 
3.08
GNMA interest-only(3)
172,916

(2)
5,245

 
4,477

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
6.70
%
 
4.18
Agency securities(1)
720

 
743

 
728

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
1.80
%
 
2.94
GNMA permanent securities(1)
33,745

 
34,386

 
34,742

 
Internal model, third-party inputs
 
3.62
%
 
5.66
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost
3,300,709

 
3,282,462

 
3,292,035

 
Discounted Cash Flow(4)
 
7.18
%
 
1.61
Provision for loan losses
 N/A

 
(4,000
)
 
(4,000
)
 
(5)
 
N/A

 
N/A
Mortgage loan receivables held for sale
232,527

 
230,180

 
236,428

 
Internal model, third-party inputs(6)
 
4.88
%
 
8.17
FHLB stock(7)
77,915

 
77,915

 
77,915

 
(7)
 
4.25
%
 
 N/A
Nonhedge derivatives(1)(8)
594,140

 
 N/A

 
888

 
Counterparty quotations
 
N/A

 
0.24
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
Repurchase agreements - short-term
371,427

 
371,427

 
371,427

 
Discounted Cash Flow(9)
 
3.19
%
 
0.35
Repurchase agreements - long-term
101,983

 
101,983

 
101,983

 
Discounted Cash Flow(10)
 
2.62
%
 
2.64
Mortgage loan financing
692,394

 
692,696

 
693,055

 
Discounted Cash Flow(10)
 
4.91
%
 
6.81
CLO debt
688,479

 
688,479

 
688,479

 
Discounted Cash Flow(9)
 
3.40
%
 
10.77
Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable
3,107

 
3,107

 
3,107

 
Discounted Cash Flow(11)
 
17.00
%
 
0.43
Borrowings from the FHLB
1,370,000

 
1,370,000

 
1,369,544

 
Discounted Cash Flow
 
1.61
%
 
2.49
Senior unsecured notes
1,166,201

 
1,152,134

 
1,187,187

 
Broker quotations, pricing services
 
5.39
%
 
5.28
Nonhedge derivatives(1)(8)
54,160

 
 N/A

 
2,606

 
Counterparty quotations
 
N/A

 
2.44
 
(1)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) in equity.
(2)
Represents notional outstanding balance of underlying collateral.
(3)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded in current period earnings.
(4)
Fair value for floating rate mortgage loan receivables, held for investment is estimated to approximate the outstanding face amount given the short interest rate reset risk (30 days) and no significant change in credit risk. Fair value for fixed rate mortgage loan receivables, held for investment is measured using a hypothetical securitization model utilizing market data from recent securitization spreads and pricing.
(5)
Fair value is estimated to equal par value.
(6)
Fair value for mortgage loan receivables, held for sale is measured using a hypothetical securitization model utilizing market data from recent securitization spreads and pricing.
(7)
Fair value of the FHLB stock approximates outstanding face amount as the Company’s captive insurance subsidiary is restricted from trading the stock and can only put the stock back to the FHLB, at the FHLB’s discretion, at par.
(8)
The outstanding face amount of the nonhedge derivatives represents the notional amount of the underlying contracts.
(9)
Fair value for repurchase agreement liabilities and CLO debt is estimated to approximate carrying amount primarily due to the short interest rate reset risk (30 days) of the financings and the high credit quality of the assets collateralizing these positions. If the collateral is determined to be impaired, the related financing would be revalued accordingly. There are no impairments on any positions.
(10)
For repurchase agreements - long term and mortgage loan financing, the carrying value approximates the fair value discounting the expected cash flows at current market rates. If the collateral is determined to be impaired, the related financing would be revalued accordingly. There are no impairments on any positions.
(11)
Fair value for Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable approximates amortized cost as this is a loan participation to a third party.


 

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The following table summarizes the Company’s financial assets and liabilities, which are both reported at fair value on a recurring basis (as indicated) or amortized cost/par, at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
Financial Instruments Reported at Fair Value on Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
 
Outstanding Face
Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

CMBS(1)
 
$
983,104

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
982,284

 
$
982,284

CMBS interest-only(1)
 
2,492,711

(2)
—

 
—

 
79,035

 
79,035

GNMA interest-only(3)
 
165,307

(2)
—

 
—

 
3,975

 
3,975

Agency securities(1)
 
706

 
—

 
—

 
698

 
698

GNMA permanent securities(1)
 
33,472

 
—

 
—

 
34,113

 
34,113

Nonhedge derivatives(4)
 
713,900

 
—

 
92

 
—

 
92

 
 
 
 
$
—

 
$
92

 
$
1,100,105

 
$
1,100,197

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value on Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
 
Outstanding Face
Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivable held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loans held by consolidated subsidiaries
 
$
3,550,544

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
3,532,369

 
$
3,532,369

Provision for loan losses
 
 N/A

 
—

 
—

 
(7,000
)
 
(7,000
)
Mortgage loan receivable held for sale
 
274,090

 
—

 
—

 
279,372

 
279,372

FHLB stock
 
77,915

 
—

 
—

 
77,915

 
77,915

 
 
 
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
3,882,656

 
$
3,882,656

Liabilities:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
0

Repurchase agreements - short-term
 
491,939

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
491,939

 
$
491,939

Repurchase agreements - long-term
 
262,438

 
—

 
—

 
262,438

 
262,438

Mortgage loan financing
 
695,163

 
—

 
—

 
668,790

 
668,790

CLO debt
 
683,095

 
—

 
—

 
683,095

 
683,095

Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable
 
2,815

 
—

 
—

 
2,815

 
2,815

Borrowings from the FHLB
 
1,348,000

 
—

 
—

 
1,326,100

 
1,326,100

Senior unsecured notes
 
1,166,201

 
—

 
—

 
1,150,860

 
1,150,860

 
 
 
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
4,586,037

 
$
4,586,037

 
(1)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) in equity. 
(2) 
Represents notional outstanding balance of underlying collateral. 
(3)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded in current period earnings. 
(4) 
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded in current period earnings.  The outstanding face amount of the nonhedge derivatives represents the notional amount of the underlying contracts.


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Table of Contents

December 31, 2017
 
Financial Instruments Reported at Fair Value on Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
 
Outstanding Face
Amount
 
Fair Value
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

CMBS(1)
 
$
945,167

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
953,499

 
$
953,499

CMBS interest-only(1)
 
3,140,297

(2)
—

 
—

 
113,071

 
113,071

GNMA interest-only(3)
 
172,916

(2)
—

 
—

 
4,477

 
4,477

Agency securities(1)
 
720

 
—

 
—

 
728

 
728

GNMA permanent securities(1)
 
33,745

 
—

 
—

 
34,742

 
34,742

Nonhedge derivatives(4)
 
594,140

 
—

 
888

 
—

 
888

 
 
 
 
$
—

 
$
888

 
$
1,106,517

 
$
1,107,405

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nonhedge derivatives(4)
 
$
54,160

 
$
—

 
$
2,606

 
$
—

 
$
2,606

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value on Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
 
Outstanding Face
Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loan receivable held for investment, net, at amortized cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loans held by consolidated subsidiaries
 
$
3,300,709

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
3,292,035

 
$
3,292,035

Provision for loan losses
 
 N/A

 
—

 
—

 
(4,000
)
 
(4,000
)
Mortgage loan receivables held for sale
 
232,527

 
—

 
—

 
236,428

 
236,428

FHLB stock
 
77,915

 
—

 
—

 
77,915

 
77,915

 
 
 
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
3,602,378

 
$
3,602,378

Liabilities:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
0

Repurchase agreements - short-term
 
371,427

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
371,427

 
$
371,427

Repurchase agreements - long-term
 
101,983

 
—

 
—

 
101,983

 
101,983

Revolving credit facility
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Mortgage loan financing
 
692,394

 
—

 
—

 
693,055

 
693,055

Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable
 
688,479

 
—

 
—

 
688,479

 
688,479

Liability for transfers not considered sales
 
3,107

 
—

 
—

 
3,107

 
3,107

Borrowings from the FHLB
 
1,370,000

 
—

 
—

 
1,369,544

 
1,369,544

Senior unsecured notes
 
1,166,201

 
—

 
—

 
1,187,187

 
1,187,187

 
 
 
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
4,414,782

 
$
4,414,782

 
 
(1)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) in equity. 
(2) 
Represents notional outstanding balance of underlying collateral. 
(3)
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded in current period earnings. 

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Table of Contents

(4) 
Measured at fair value on a recurring basis with the net unrealized gains or losses recorded in current period earnings.  The outstanding face amount of the nonhedge derivatives represents the notional amount of the underlying contracts.

The following table summarizes changes in Level 3 financial instruments reported at fair value on the consolidated statements of financial condition for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):

Level 3
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at January 1,
 
$
1,106,517

 
$
2,100,947

Transfer from level 2
 
—

 
—

Purchases
 
135,058

 
45,726

Sales
 
(122,356
)
 
(361,323
)
Paydowns/maturities
 
(2,954
)
 
(74,285
)
Amortization of premium/discount
 
(6,407
)
 
(19,357
)
Unrealized gain/(loss)
 
(8,654
)
 
4,911

Realized gain/(loss) on sale(1)
 
(1,099
)
 
5,361

Balance at March 31,
 
$
1,100,105

 
$
1,701,980

 
(1)
Includes realized losses on securities recorded as other than temporary impairments.

The following is quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs in our Level 3 measurements for those assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis ($ in thousands):

March 31, 2018
Financial Instrument
 
Carrying Value
 
Valuation Technique
 
Unobservable Input
 
Minimum
 
Weighted Average
 
Maximum
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMBS (1)
 
$
982,284

 
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
—
%
 
3.42
%
 
21.15
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
0.00

 
3.20

 
8.04

CMBS interest-only (1)
 
79,035

(2)
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
2.66
%
 
3.78
%
 
6.71
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
0.27

 
2.91

 
4.30

 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepayment speed (CPY)(5)
 
100.00

 
100.00

 
100.00

GNMA interest-only (3)
 
3,975

(2)
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
—
%
 
12.90
%
 
80.84
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
0.00

 
2.38

 
5.10

 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepayment speed (CPJ)(5)
 
0.00

 
12.02

 
35.00

Agency securities (1)
 
698

 
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
1.4
%
 
2.48
%
 
2.95
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
0

 
3.12

 
4.49

GNMA permanent securities (1)
 
34,113

 
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
4
%
 
81
%
 
6.91
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
3.03

 
3.76

 
6.91

Total
 
$
1,100,105

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
CMBS, CMBS interest-only securities, Agency securities, GNMA construction securities, and GNMA permanent securities are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in the current period in other comprehensive income.
(2)
The amounts presented represent the principal amount of the mortgage loans outstanding in the pool in which the interest-only securities participate.
(3)
Agency interest-only securities are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings.


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Table of Contents

Sensitivity of the Fair Value to Changes in the Unobservable Inputs
        
(4)
Significant increase (decrease) in the unobservable input in isolation would result in significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
(5)
Significant increase (decrease) in the unobservable input in isolation would result in either a significantly lower or higher (lower or higher) fair value measurement depending on the structural features of the security in question.

December 31, 2017
Financial Instrument
 
Carrying Value
 
Valuation Technique
 
Unobservable Input
 
Minimum
 
Weighted Average
 
Maximum
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CMBS (1)
 
$
953,499

 
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (3)
 
0.61
%
 
3
%
 
18.32
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(4)
 
0.12

 
3.19

 
7.84

CMBS interest-only (1)
 
113,072

(2)
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (3)
 
2.7
%
 
3.52
%
 
6.31
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(4)
 
0.39

 
3.06

 
4.46

 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepayment speed (CPY)(4)
 
100.00

 
100.00

 
100.00

GNMA interest-only (3)
 
4,476

(2)
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
4.46
%
 
11.85
%
 
71.88
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
0.44

 
2.43

 
5.19

 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepayment speed (CPJ)(5)
 
5.00

 
12.19

 
35.00

Agency securities (1)
 
728

 
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
1.4
%
 
2.16
%
 
2.52
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
0.00

 
3.22

 
4.72

GNMA permanent securities (1)
 
34,742

 
Discounted cash flow
 
Yield (4)
 
2.62
%
 
3.44
%
 
6.93
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duration (years)(5)
 
1.40

 
5.75

 
5.94

Total
 
$
1,106,517

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
CMBS, CMBS interest-only securities, GNMA construction securities, and GNMA permanent securities are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in the current period in other comprehensive income.
(2)
The amounts presented represent the principal amount of the mortgage loans outstanding in the pool in which the interest-only securities participate.
(3)
Agency interest-only securities are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings.

Sensitivity of the Fair Value to Changes in the Unobservable Inputs
        
(4)
Significant increase (decrease) in the unobservable input in isolation would result in significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
(5)
Significant increase (decrease) in the unobservable input in isolation would result in either a significantly lower or higher (lower or higher) fair value measurement depending on the structural features of the security in question.


49
Table of Contents

10. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
 
The Company uses derivative instruments primarily to economically manage the fair value variability of fixed rate assets caused by interest rate fluctuations and overall portfolio market risk.  The following is a breakdown of the derivatives outstanding as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
Remaining
Maturity
(years)
Contract Type
 
Notional
 
Asset(1)
 
Liability(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Futures
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
5-year Swap
 
$
340,900

 
$
44

 
$
—

 
0.25
10-year Swap
 
364,600

 
47

 
—

 
0.25
5-year U.S. Treasury Note
 
8,400

 
1

 
—

 
0.25
Total derivatives
 
$
713,900

 
$
92

 
$
—

 
 
 
(1)  Shown as derivative instruments, at fair value, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
Remaining
Maturity
(years)
Contract Type
 
Notional
 
Asset(1)
 
Liability(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Futures
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
5-year Swap
 
304,300

 
656

 
—

 
0.25
10-year Swap
 
248,100

 
133

 
153

 
0.25
5-year U.S. Treasury Note
 
11,400

 
47

 
—

 
0.25
10-year U.S. Treasury Note
 
—

 
—

 
911

 

Total futures
 
563,800

 
836

 
1,064

 
 
Swaps
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
3 Month LIBOR(2)
 
50,000

 
—

 
1,542

 
2.68
Credit Derivatives
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
CDX
 
34,500

 
52

 
—

 
0.12
Total credit derivatives
 
34,500

 
52

 
—

 
 
Total derivatives
 
$
648,300

 
$
888

 
$
2,606

 
 
 
(1)  Shown as derivative instruments, at fair value, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
(2) The Company is paying fixed interest rates on these swaps.
 

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Table of Contents

The following table indicates the net realized gains (losses) and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on derivatives, by primary underlying risk exposure, as included in net result from derivatives transactions in the consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Unrealized
Gain/(Loss)
 
Realized
Gain/(Loss)
 
Net Result
from
Derivative
Transactions
 
 

 
 

 
 

Contract Type
 
 
 
 
 
Futures
$
320

 
$
14,372

 
$
14,692

Swaps
1,403

 
(848
)
 
555

Credit Derivatives
49

 
(337
)
 
(288
)
Total
$
1,772

 
$
13,187

 
$
14,959

 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
Unrealized
Gain/(Loss)
 
Realized
Gain/(Loss)
 
Net Result
from
Derivative
Transactions
 
 

 
 

 
 

Contract Type
 
 
 
 
 
Futures
$
(5,844
)
 
$
4,043

 
$
(1,801
)
Swaps
301

 
(279
)
 
22

Credit Derivatives
(106
)
 
(96
)
 
(202
)
Total
$
(5,649
)
 
$
3,668

 
$
(1,981
)

The Company’s counterparties held $7.4 million and $9.6 million of cash margin as collateral for derivatives as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, which is included in restricted cash in the consolidated balance sheets.
 
Futures

Collateral posted with our futures counterparties is segregated in the Company’s books and records. Interest rate futures are centrally cleared by the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (“CME”) through a Futures Commission Merchant. Interest rate futures that are governed by an ISDA agreement provide for bilateral collateral pledging based on the counterparties’ market value. The counterparties have the right to re-pledge the collateral posted but have the obligation to return the pledged collateral, or substantially the same collateral, if agreed to by us, as the market value of the interest rate futures change.

The Company is required to post initial margin and daily variation margin for our interest rate futures that are centrally cleared by CME. CME determines the fair value of our centrally cleared futures, including daily variation margin. Effective January 3, 2017, CME amended their rulebooks to legally characterize daily variation margin payments for centrally cleared interest rate futures as settlement rather than collateral. As a result of this rule change, variation margin pledged on the Company’s centrally cleared interest rate futures is settled against the realized results of these futures.


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Table of Contents

Credit Risk-Related Contingent Features
 
The Company has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision whereby, if the Company defaults on certain of its indebtedness, the Company could also be declared in default on its derivatives, resulting in an acceleration of payment under the derivatives. As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company was in compliance with these requirements and not in default on its indebtedness. As of March 31, 2018, there was no cash collateral held by the derivative counterparties for these derivatives. As of December 31, 2017, there was $4.1 million of cash collateral held by the derivative counterparties for these derivatives, included in restricted cash in the consolidated statements of financial condition. No additional cash would be required to be posted if the acceleration of payment under the derivatives was triggered.

11. OFFSETTING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
 
The following tables present both gross information and net information about derivatives and other instruments eligible for offset in the statement of financial position as of March 31, 2018 and 2017. The Company’s accounting policy is to record derivative asset and liability positions on a gross basis, therefore, the following tables present the gross derivative asset and liability positions recorded on the balance sheets, while also disclosing the eligible amounts of financial instruments and cash collateral to the extent those amounts could offset the gross amount of derivative asset and liability positions. The actual amounts of collateral posted by or received from counterparties may be in excess of the amounts disclosed in the following tables as the following only disclose amounts eligible to be offset to the extent of the recorded gross derivative positions.
 
As of March 31, 2018
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Derivative Assets
($ in thousands)
 
Description
 
Gross amounts of
recognized assets
 
Gross amounts
offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amounts of
assets presented
in the balance
sheet
 
Gross amounts not offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amount
 
 
 
 
Financial
instruments
 
Cash collateral
received/(posted)(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
$
92

 
$
—

 
$
92

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
92

Total
 
$
92

 
$
—

 
$
92

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
92

 
(1) Included in restricted cash on consolidated balance sheets.
 
As of March 31, 2018
Offsetting of Financial Liabilities and Derivative Liabilities
($ in thousands)
 
Description
 
Gross amounts of
recognized
liabilities
 
Gross amounts
offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amounts of
liabilities
presented in the
balance sheet
 
Gross amounts not offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amount
 
 
 
 
Financial
instruments
collateral
 
Cash collateral
posted/(received)(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

Repurchase agreements
 
754,377

 
—

 
754,377

 
754,377

 
—

 
—

Total
 
$
754,377

 
$
—

 
$
754,377

 
$
754,377

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
 
(1) Included in restricted cash on consolidated balance sheets.


52
Table of Contents

As of December 31, 2017
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Derivative Assets
($ in thousands)
 
Description
 
Gross amounts of
recognized assets
 
Gross amounts
offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amounts of
assets presented
in the balance
sheet
 
Gross amounts not offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amount
 
 
 
 
Financial
instruments
 
Cash collateral
received/(posted)(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
$
888

 
$
—

 
$
888

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
888

Total
 
$
888

 
$
—

 
$
888

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
888

 
 
(1) Included in restricted cash on consolidated balance sheets.

As of December 31, 2017
Offsetting of Financial Liabilities and Derivative Liabilities
($ in thousands)
 
Description
 
Gross amounts of
recognized
liabilities
 
Gross amounts
offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amounts of
liabilities
presented in the
balance sheet
 
Gross amounts not offset in the
balance sheet
 
Net amount
 
 
 
 
Financial
instruments
collateral
 
Cash collateral
posted/(received)(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
$
2,606

 
$
—

 
$
2,606

 
$
—

 
$
2,606

 
$
—

Repurchase agreements
 
473,410

 
—

 
473,410

 
473,410

 
—

 
—

Total
 
$
476,016

 
$
—

 
$
476,016

 
$
473,410

 
$
2,606

 
$
—

 
(1) Included in restricted cash on consolidated balance sheets.
 
Master netting agreements that the Company has entered into with its derivative and repurchase agreement counterparties allow for netting of the same transaction, in the same currency, on the same date. Assets, liabilities, and collateral subject to master netting agreements as of March 31, 2018 and 2017 are disclosed in the tables above. The Company does not present its derivative and repurchase agreements net on the consolidated financial statements as it has elected gross presentation.
 
12. EQUITY STRUCTURE AND ACCOUNTS
 
The Company has two classes of common stock, Class A and Class B, which are described as follows:

Class A Common Stock
 
Voting Rights
 
Holders of shares of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share on all matters to be voted upon by the shareholders. The holders of Class A common stock do not have cumulative voting rights in the election of directors.
 

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Dividend Rights
 
Subject to the rights of the holders of any preferred stock that may be outstanding and any contractual or statutory restrictions, holders of Class A common stock are entitled to receive equally and ratably, share for share, dividends as may be declared by the board of directors out of funds legally available to pay dividends. Dividends upon Class A common stock may be declared by the board of directors at any regular or special meeting and may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of capital stock. Before payment of any dividend, there may be set aside out of any funds available for dividends, such sums as the board of directors deems proper as reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any of the Company’s property, or for any proper purpose, and the board of directors may modify or abolish any such reserve.
 
Liquidation Rights
 
Upon liquidation, dissolution, distribution of assets or other winding up, the holders of Class A common stock are entitled to receive ratably the assets available for distribution to the shareholders after payment of liabilities and the liquidation preference of any outstanding shares of preferred stock.
 
Other Matters
 
The shares of Class A common stock have no preemptive or conversion rights and are not subject to further calls or assessment by the Company. There are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to the Class A common stock. All outstanding shares of Class A common stock are fully paid and non-assessable.
 
Allocation of Income and Loss
 
Income and losses are allocated among the shareholders based upon the number of shares outstanding.
 
Class B Common Stock
 
Voting Rights
 
Holders of shares of Class B common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held of record by such holder and all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. Holders of shares of our Class A common stock and Class B common stock vote together as a single class on all matters presented to our shareholders for their vote or approval, except as otherwise required by applicable law.
 
No Dividend or Liquidation Rights
 
Holders of Class B common stock do not have any right to receive dividends or to receive a distribution upon a liquidation or winding up of Ladder Capital Corp.
 
Exchange for Class A Common Stock
 
Pursuant to the Third Amended and Restated LLLP Agreement of LCFH, the Continuing LCFH Limited Partners may from time to time, subject to certain conditions, receive one share of the Company’s Class A common stock in exchange for (i) one share of the Company’s Class B common stock, (ii) one Series REIT LP Unit and (iii) either one Series TRS LP Unit or one TRS Share, subject to equitable adjustments for stock splits, stock dividends and reclassifications.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, 4,349,832 Series REIT LP Units and 4,349,832 Series TRS LP Units were collectively exchanged for 4,349,832 shares of Class A common stock and 4,349,832 shares of Class B common stock were canceled. We received no other consideration in connection with these exchanges.

During the three months ended March 31, 2017, 6,790,121 Series REIT LP Units and 6,790,121 Series TRS LP Units were collectively exchanged for 6,790,121 shares of Class A common stock; and 6,790,121 shares of Class B common stock were canceled. We received no other consideration in connection with these exchanges.


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Stock Repurchases

On October 30, 2014, the board of directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $50.0 million of the Company’s Class A common stock from time to time without further approval. Stock repurchases by the Company are generally made for cash in open market transactions at prevailing market prices but may also be made in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The timing and amount of purchases are determined based upon prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company repurchased no shares of Class A common stock. All repurchased shares are recorded in treasury stock at cost. As of March 31, 2018, the Company has a remaining amount available for repurchase of $41.8 million, which represents 2.8% in the aggregate of its outstanding Class A common stock, based on the closing price of $15.08 per share on such date.

Dividends

In order for the Company to maintain its qualification as a REIT under the Code, it must annually distribute at least 90% of its taxable income. The Company has paid and in the future intends to declare regular quarterly distributions to its shareholders in an amount approximating the REIT’s net taxable income.

Consistent with IRS guidance, the Company may, subject to a cash/stock election by its shareholders, pay a portion of its dividends in stock, to provide for meaningful capital retention; however, the REIT distribution requirements limit its ability to retain earnings and thereby replenish or increase capital for operations. The timing and amount of future distributions is based on a number of factors, including, among other things, the Company’s future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition and contractual restrictions. All dividend declarations are subject to the approval of the Company’s board of directors. Generally, the Company expects its distributions to be taxable as ordinary dividends to its shareholders, whether paid in cash or a combination of cash and common stock, and not as a tax-free return of capital or a capital gain (although for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2026, generally stockholders that are individuals, trusts or estates may deduct 20% of the aggregate amount of ordinary dividends distributed by us, subject to certain limitations). The Company believes that its significant capital resources and access to financing will provide the financial flexibility at levels sufficient to meet current and anticipated capital requirements, including funding new investment opportunities, paying distributions to its shareholders and servicing our debt obligations.
 
The following table presents dividends declared (on a per share basis) of Class A common stock for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

Declaration Date
 
Dividend per Share
 
 
 
February 27, 2018
 
$
0.315

Total
 
$
0.315

 
 
 
March 1, 2017
 
$
0.300

Total
 
$
0.300



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Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income related to the cumulative difference between the fair market value and the amortized cost basis of securities classified as available for sale for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income of Noncontrolling Interests
 
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
$
(212
)
 
$
116

 
$
(96
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(7,528
)
 
(1,329
)
 
(8,857
)
Exchange of noncontrolling interest for common stock
 
(143
)
 
143

 
—

Rebalancing of ownership percentage between Company and Operating Partnership
 
3

 
(3
)
 
—

March 31, 2018
 
$
(7,880
)
 
$
(1,073
)
 
$
(8,953
)

 
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income of Noncontrolling Interests
 
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2016
 
$
1,365

 
$
761

 
$
2,126

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
3,117

 
1,634

 
4,751

Exchange of noncontrolling interest for common stock
 
403

 
(403
)
 
—

Rebalancing of ownership percentage between Company and Operating Partnership
 
(51
)
 
51

 
—

March 31, 2017
 
$
4,834

 
$
2,043

 
$
6,877


13. NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

Pursuant to ASC 810, Consolidation, on the accounting and reporting for noncontrolling interests and changes in ownership interests of a subsidiary, changes in a parent’s ownership interest (and transactions with noncontrolling interest unitholders in the subsidiary), while the parent retains its controlling interest in its subsidiary, should be accounted for as equity transactions. The carrying amount of the noncontrolling interest shall be adjusted to reflect the change in its ownership interest in the subsidiary, with the offset to equity attributable to the parent. Accordingly, as a result of LP unit exchanges which caused changes in ownership percentages between the Company’s Class A shareholders and the noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership that occurred during the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company has increased noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership and decreased additional paid-in capital and accumulated other comprehensive income in the Company’s shareholders’ equity by $0.1 million as of March 31, 2018. Upon the adoption of ASU 2015-02, which amended ASC 810, Consolidation, in the quarter ended March 31, 2016, the Operating Partnership is now determined to be a VIE, however, since the Company was previously consolidating the Operating Partnership, the adoption of ASU 2015-02 had no material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

There are two main types of noncontrolling interest reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements (i) noncontrolling interest in the operating partnership and (ii) noncontrolling interest in consolidated joint ventures.


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Noncontrolling Interest in the Operating Partnership

As more fully described in Note 1, certain of the predecessor equity owners continue to own interests in the operating partnership as modified by the IPO Transactions. These interests were subsequently further modified by the REIT Structuring Transactions (also described in Note 1). These interests, along with the Class B shares held by these investors, are exchangeable for Class A shares of the Company. The roll-forward of the Operating Partnership’s LP Units follow the Class B common stock of the Company as disclosed in the consolidated statements of changes in equity.

Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest in the Operating Partnership

Notwithstanding the foregoing, subject to any restrictions in applicable debt financing agreements and available liquidity as determined by the board of directors of each of Series REIT of LCFH and Series TRS of LCFH, each Series must use commercially reasonable efforts to make quarterly distributions to each of its partners (including the Company) at least equal to such partner’s “Quarterly Estimated Tax Amount,” which shall be computed (as more fully described in LCFH’s Third Amended and Restated LLLP Agreement) for each partner as the product of (x) the U.S. federal taxable income (or alternative minimum taxable income, if higher) allocated by such Series to such partner in respect of the Series REIT LP Units and Series TRS LP Units held by such partner and (y) the highest marginal blended U.S. federal, state and local income tax rate (or alternative minimum taxable rate, as applicable) applicable to an individual residing in New York, NY, taking into account, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the deductibility of state and local taxes; provided that Series TRS of LCFH may take into account, in determining the amount of tax distributions to holders of Series TRS LP Units, the amount of any distributions each such holder received from Series REIT of LCFH in excess of tax distributions. In addition, to the extent the Company requires an additional distribution from the Series of LCFH in excess of its quarterly tax distribution in order to pay its quarterly cash dividend, the Series of LCFH will be required to make a corresponding distribution of cash to each of their partners (other than the Company) on a pro-rata basis.
 
Allocation of Income and Loss
 
Income and losses and comprehensive income are allocated among the partners in a manner to reflect as closely as possible the amount each partner would be distributed under the Third Amended and Restated LLLP Agreement upon liquidation of the Operating Partnership’s assets.

Noncontrolling Interest in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures

The Company consolidates nine ventures in which there are other noncontrolling investors, which own between 1.2% - 29.4% of such ventures. These ventures hold investments in 25 office buildings, two industrial properties and a condominium project. The Company makes distributions and allocates income from these ventures to the noncontrolling interests in accordance with the terms of the respective governing agreements.


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14. EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
The Company’s net income (loss) and weighted average shares outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 consist of the following:
 
($ in thousands except share amounts)
 
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
Basic Net income (loss) available for Class A common shareholders
 
$
50,875

 
$
13,470

Diluted Net income (loss) available for Class A common shareholders
 
$
50,875

 
$
19,280

Weighted average shares outstanding
 
 

 
 

Basic
 
95,187,316

 
72,871,990

Diluted
 
95,389,219

 
109,334,847

 
The calculation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share amounts for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 are described and presented below.

Basic Net Income (Loss) per Share
 
Numerator: utilizes net income (loss) available for Class A common shareholders for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
 
Denominator: utilizes the weighted average shares of Class A common stock for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
 
Diluted Net Income (Loss) per Share
 
Numerator: utilizes net income (loss) available for Class A common shareholders for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, for the basic net income (loss) per share calculation described above, adding net income (loss) amounts attributable to the noncontrolling interest in the Operating Partnership using the as-if converted method for the Class B common shareholders while adjusting for additional corporate income tax expense (benefit) for the described net income (loss) add-back.
 
Denominator: utilizes the weighted average number of shares of Class A common stock for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, for the basic net income (loss) per share calculation described above adding the dilutive effect of shares issuable relating to Operating Partnership exchangeable interests and the incremental shares of unvested Class A restricted stock using the treasury method.
 

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(In thousands except share amounts)
 
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
Basic Net Income (Loss) Per Share of Class A Common Stock
 
 

 
 

Numerator:
 
 

 
 

Net income (loss) attributable to Class A common shareholders
 
$
50,875

 
$
13,470

Denominator:
 
 

 
 

Weighted average number of shares of Class A common stock outstanding
 
95,187,316

 
72,871,990

Basic net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock
 
$
0.53

 
$
0.18

 
 
 
 
 
Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share of Class A Common Stock
 
 

 
 

Numerator:
 
 

 
 

Net income (loss) attributable to Class A common shareholders
 
$
50,875

 
$
13,470

Add (deduct) - dilutive effect of:
 
 

 
 

Amounts attributable to operating partnership’s share of Ladder Capital Corp net income (loss)
 
—

 
5,838

Additional corporate tax (expense) benefit
 
—

 
(28
)
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Class A common shareholders
 
$
50,875

 
$
19,280

Denominator:
 
 

 
 

Basic weighted average number of shares of Class A common stock outstanding
 
95,187,316

 
72,871,990

Add - dilutive effect of:
 
 

 
 

Shares issuable relating to converted Class B common shareholders
 
—

 
36,340,717

Incremental shares of unvested Class A restricted stock
 
201,903

 
122,140

Diluted weighted average number of shares of Class A common stock outstanding
 
95,389,219

 
109,334,847

Diluted net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock
 
$
0.53

 
$
0.18


For the three months ended March 31, 2017, shares issuable relating to converted Class B common shareholders are excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS as the inclusion of such potential common shares in the calculation would be anti-dilutive.
 
The shares of Class B common stock do not share in the earnings of Ladder Capital Corp and are, therefore, not participating securities. Accordingly, basic and diluted net income (loss) per share of Class B common stock has not been presented, although the assumed conversion of Class B common stock has been included in the presented diluted net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock.
 

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15. STOCK BASED AND OTHER COMPENSATION PLANS
 
The following table summarizes the impact on the consolidated statement of operations of the various stock based compensation plans described in this note ($ in thousands):

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Stock Based Compensation Expense:
 
 
 
Annual Incentive Awards Granted in 2015 With Respect to 2014 Performance
$
172

 
$
623

Annual Incentive Awards Granted in 2016 With Respect to 2015 Performance
322

 
784

Annual Incentive Awards Granted in 2017 With Respect to 2016 Performance(1)
622

 
5,196

Other 2017 Restricted Stock Awards(1)
105

 
91

Annual Incentive Awards Granted in 2017 With Respect to 2017 Performance(1)
1,117

 
—

2018 Restricted Stock Awards
42

 
—

Other Employee/Director Awards
20

 
559

Total Stock Based Compensation Expense
$
2,400

 
$
7,253

 
 
 
 
Phantom Equity Investment Plan
$
—

 
$
261

Ladder Capital Corp Deferred Compensation Plan
$
427

 
$
262

Bonus Expense
$
10,140

 
$
3,103

 
(1)
Includes immediate vesting of retirement eligible employees, including Brian Harris.

2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan
 
In connection with the IPO Transactions, the 2014 Ladder Capital Corp Omnibus Incentive Equity Plan (the “2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan”) was adopted by the board of directors on February 11, 2014, and provides certain members of management, employees and directors of the Company or its affiliates with additional incentives including grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, other stock-based awards and other cash-based awards.

Annual Incentive Awards Granted in 2016 With Respect to 2015 Performance

Members of management were eligible to receive annual restricted stock awards (the “Annual Restricted Stock Awards”) and annual option awards (the “Annual Option Awards”) based on the performance of the Company. On February 18, 2016, Annual Restricted Stock Awards were granted to Management Grantees with an aggregate value of $9.1 million which represents 793,598 shares of restricted Class A common stock in connection with 2015 compensation. Fifty percent of each restricted stock award granted is subject to time-based vesting criteria, and the remaining 50% of each restricted stock award is subject to attainment of the Performance Target for the applicable years. The time-vesting restricted stock granted to the Management Grantees will generally vest in three installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to continued employment on the applicable vesting dates. The performance-vesting restricted stock will vest in three equal installments upon the compensation committee’s confirmation that the Company achieves a return on equity, based on Core Earnings divided by the Company’s average book value of equity, equal to or greater than 8% for such year (the “Performance Target”) for those years. If the Company misses the Performance Target during either the first or second calendar year but meets the Performance Target for a subsequent year during the three-year performance period and the Company’s return on equity for such subsequent year and any years for which it missed its Performance Target equals or exceeds the compounded return on equity of 8%, based on Core Earnings divided by the Company’s average book value of equity, the performance-vesting restricted stock which failed to vest because the Company previously missed its Performance Target will vest on the last day of such subsequent year (the “Catch-Up Provision”). If the term “Core Earnings” is no longer used in the Company’s SEC filings and approved by the compensation committee, then the Performance Target will be calculated using such other pre-tax performance measurement defined in the Company’s SEC filings, as determined by the compensation committee. The Company met the Performance Target for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 

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The Company has elected to recognize the compensation expense related to the time-based vesting of the Annual Restricted Stock Awards for the entire award on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. As such, the compensation expense related to the February 18, 2016 Annual Restricted Stock Awards to Management Grantees is recognized as follows:
 
1.
Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to Brian Harris was expensed in full on February 11, 2017, the Harris Retirement Eligibility Date.

2.
Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to the Management Grantees other than Mr. Harris, will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years on an annual basis following such grant.
 
Accruals of compensation cost for an award with a performance condition shall be based on the probable outcome of that performance condition. Therefore, compensation cost shall be accrued if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved and shall not be accrued if it is not probable that the performance condition will be achieved.

On February 18, 2016, Annual Stock Option Awards were granted to Management Grantees with an aggregate grant date fair value of $1.0 million, which represents 289,326 shares of Class A common stock subject to the Annual Stock Option Awards. The stock option awards are subject to the same terms and conditions as those granted in 2015 except that the vesting period commenced in 2016 and the 2016 stock option awards included dividend equivalent rights. The actual grant date fair values of the Annual Option Awards granted to our Management Grantees were computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 using the Black Scholes model based on the following assumptions: (1) risk-free rate of 1.5%; (2) dividend yield of 9.8%; (3) expected life of six years; and (4) volatility of 48.0%.

On February 18, 2016, certain members of the board of directors each received Annual Restricted Stock Awards with a grant date fair value of $0.1 million, representing 12,636 shares of restricted Class A common stock, which will vest in full on the first anniversary of the date of grant, subject to continued service on the board of directors. Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to directors will be expensed in full on an annual basis following such grant.

Upon a change in control (as defined in the respective award agreements), all restricted stock and option awards will become fully vested, if (1) the Management Grantee continues to be employed through the closing of the change in control or (2) after the signing of definitive documentation related to the change in control, but prior to its closing, the Management Grantee’s employment is terminated without cause or due to death or disability or the Management Grantee resigns for Good Reason. The compensation committee retains the right, in its sole discretion, to provide for the accelerated vesting (in whole or in part) of the restricted stock and option awards granted.

On February 11, 2017 (the “Harris Retirement Eligibility Date”), all outstanding Annual Restricted Stock Awards, including the time-vesting portion and the performance-vesting portion, and all outstanding Annual Option Awards granted to Mr. Harris became fully vested, and any Annual Restricted Stock Awards and Annual Option Awards granted after the Harris Retirement Eligibility Date will be fully vested at grant. The Executive Retirement Eligibility Date for Pamela McCormack is December 8, 2019 (the “McCormack Retirement Eligibility Date”). For Management Grantees other than Harris and McCormack, the Executive Retirement Eligibility Date is February 11, 2019, the time-vesting portion of the Annual Restricted Stock Awards and the Annual Option Awards will become fully vested, and the time-vesting portion of any Annual Restricted Stock Awards and Annual Option Awards granted after the Executive Retirement Eligibility Date will be fully vested at grant. Upon the occurrence of the Executive Retirement Eligibility Date, the performance-vesting portion of such Management Grantee’s Annual Restricted Stock Awards will remain outstanding for the performance period and will vest to the extent we meet the Performance Target, including via the Catch-Up Provision described above, regardless of continued employment with us our subsidiaries following the Executive Retirement Eligibility Date.


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Annual Incentive Awards Granted in 2017 With Respect to 2016 Performance

For 2016 performance, management received stock-based incentive equity. On February 18, 2017, Annual Restricted Stock Awards were granted to Management Grantees with an aggregate value of $10.2 million which represents 736,461 shares of restricted Class A common stock in connection with 2016 compensation. In accordance with the Harris Employment Agreement, Mr. Harris’ annual awards were fully vested at grant. For other Management Grantees, fifty percent of each restricted stock award granted is subject to time-based vesting criteria, and the remaining 50% of each restricted stock award is subject to attainment of the Performance Target for the applicable years. The time-vesting restricted stock will vest in three installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to continued employment on the applicable vesting dates and subject to the applicable Retirement Eligibility Date. The performance-vesting restricted stock will vest in three equal installments upon the compensation committee’s confirmation that the Company achieves the Performance Target for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. The Catch-Up Provision applies to the performance vesting portion of this award.

The Company has elected to recognize the compensation expense related to the time-based vesting of the Annual Restricted Stock Awards for the entire award on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. As such, the compensation expense related to the February 18, 2017 Annual Restricted Stock Awards to Management Grantees shall be recognized as follows:
 
1.
Compensation expense for stock granted to Brian Harris will be expensed immediately in accordance with the Harris Retirement Eligibility Date.

2.
Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to Pamela McCormack will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years, on an annual basis in advance of the McCormack Retirement Eligibility Date.

3.
Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to Michael Mazzei will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years, on an annual basis.

4.
Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to the Management Grantees other than Mr. Harris, Ms. McCormack and Mr. Mazzei will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years, on an annual basis in advance of the Executive Retirement Eligibility Date.
 
Accruals of compensation cost for an award with a performance condition is accrued if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved and shall not be accrued if it is not probable that the performance condition will be achieved.

Upon a change in control (as defined in the respective award agreements), all restricted stock and option awards will become fully vested, if (1) the Management Grantee continues to be employed through the closing of the change in control or (2) after the signing of definitive documentation related to the change in control, but prior to its closing, the Management Grantee’s employment is terminated without cause or due to death or disability or the Management Grantee resigns for Good Reason. The compensation committee retains the right, in its sole discretion, to provide for the accelerated vesting (in whole or in part) of the restricted stock and option awards granted.

Other 2017 Restricted Stock Awards

On January 24, 2017, Management Grantees received a Restricted Stock Award with a grant date fair value of $30,455, representing 2,191 shares of restricted Class A common stock. These shares represent stock dividends paid on the number of shares subject to the 2016 options (had such shares been outstanding) and vest with the time-vesting 2016 options they are associated with, subject to the Retirement Eligibility Date of the respective member of management. Compensation expense shall be recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period.

On February 18, 2017, a new employee of the Company received a Restricted Stock Award with a grant date fair value of $0.4 million, representing 28,881 shares of restricted Class A common stock, which will vest in two equal installments on each of the first two anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to continued employment on the applicable vesting dates. Compensation expense shall be recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period.


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On February 18, 2017, Management Grantees received cash of $1.0 million and a Stock Award with a grant date fair value of $48,475, representing 3,500 shares of Class A common stock, intended to represent dividends in type and amount that the 2015 stock option grant to management would have received had such options had dividend equivalent rights since grant. This grant also provides for future dividend equivalents that vest according to the vesting schedule of the 2015 stock option grant. Compensation expense shall be recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period.

On February 18, 2017, certain members of the board of directors each received Annual Restricted Stock Awards with a grant date fair value of $0.2 million, representing 16,245 shares of restricted Class A common stock, which will vest in full on the first anniversary of the date of grant, subject to continued service on the board of directors. Compensation expense related to the time-based vesting criteria of the award shall be recognized on a straight-line basis over the one-year vesting period.

On February 18, 2017, Restricted Stock Awards were granted to certain non-management employees (each, a “Non-Management Grantee”) with an aggregate value of $0.6 million which represents 40,000 shares of restricted Class A common stock in connection with 2016 compensation. Fifty percent of each Restricted Stock Award granted is subject to time-based vesting criteria, and the remaining 50% of each Restricted Stock Award is subject to attainment of the Performance Target for the applicable years. The time-vesting restricted stock granted to Non-Management Grantees will vest in three installments on each of the first three anniversaries of June 1, 2017, subject to continued employment on the applicable vesting dates. The performance-vesting restricted stock will vest in three equal installments on June 1 of each of 2018, 2019 and 2020 (subject to the performance target being achieved). The Catch-Up Provision applies to the performance vesting portion of this award. The Company has elected to recognize the compensation expense related to the time-based vesting criteria of these Restricted Stock Awards for the entire award on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. As such, the compensation expense related to the February 18, 2017 Restricted Stock Awards to Non-Management Grantees for time-based vesting shall be recognized 1/3 for the period February 18, 2017 through June 1, 2018, 1/3 for the period June 2, 2018 through June 1, 2019 and 1/3 for the period June 2, 2019 through June 1, 2020.
 
Accruals of compensation cost for an award with a performance condition shall be based on the probable outcome of that performance condition.  Therefore, compensation cost shall be accrued if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved and shall not be accrued if it is not probable that the performance condition will be achieved.

On March 3, 2017, a new member of the board of directors received a Restricted Stock Award with a grant date fair value of $0.1 million, representing 5,130 shares of restricted Class A common stock, which will vest in three equal installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to continued service on the board of directors. Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to the director will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years on an annual basis following such grant.

On June 19, 2017, Restricted Stock Awards were granted to a Non-Management Grantee with an aggregate value of $0.3 million, which represents 21,307 shares of time-based restricted Class A common stock. One-third of this amount will vest on the first anniversary date of the grant date and 1,775 shares will vest on each of October 1, 2018, December 31, 2018, April 1, 2019, July 1, 2019, September 30, 2019, December 31, 2019 and March 31, 2020. The remaining 1,780 shares of the grant will vest on July 1, 2020, subject to the Non-Management Grantee’s continued employment with the Company. The Company has elected to recognize the compensation expense related to the time-based vesting criteria of this Restricted Stock Award for the entire award on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. 

In connection with Mr. Mazzei’s retirement as President, Ladder Capital Finance LLC, a subsidiary of Ladder, and Mr. Mazzei entered into a separation agreement, dated June 22, 2017 (the “Separation Agreement”). Pursuant to the Separation Agreement, Mr. Mazzei was appointed as a Class III director of Ladder and, subject to certain exceptions, Mr. Mazzei’s unvested stock and stock options will continue to vest as they would have had he continued to be employed with Ladder as long as he continues to serve on the Board of Directors. Such unvested stock and stock options will not be subject to the original retirement eligibility date provided for in his employment agreement. On June 22, 2017, in connection with his appointment to the board of directors, Mr. Mazzei received a Restricted Stock Award with a grant date fair value of $0.1 million, representing 5,346 shares of restricted Class A common stock, which will vest in three equal installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to continued service on the board of directors. Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to the director will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years on an annual basis following such grant.


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Annual Incentive Awards Granted in 2017 With Respect to 2017 Performance

For 2017 performance, management received stock-based incentive equity. On December 21, 2017, Annual Restricted Stock Awards were granted to Management Grantees with an aggregate value of $10.5 million which represents 768,205 shares of restricted Class A common stock in connection with 2017 compensation. In accordance with the Harris Employment Agreement, Mr. Harris’ annual awards were fully vested at grant. For other Management Grantees, 50% of each restricted stock award granted is subject to time-based vesting criteria, and the remaining 50% of each restricted stock award is subject to attainment of the Performance Target for the applicable years. The time-vesting restricted stock will vest in three installments on each of February 18, 2019, February 18, 2020 and February 18, 2021, subject to continued employment on the applicable vesting dates and subject to the applicable Retirement Eligibility Date. The performance-vesting restricted stock will vest in three equal installments upon the compensation committee’s confirmation that the Company achieves the Performance Target for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. The Catch-Up Provision applies to the performance vesting portion of this award.

The Company has elected to recognize the compensation expense related to the time-based vesting of the Annual Restricted Stock Awards for the entire award on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. As such, the compensation expense related to the December 21, 2017 Annual Restricted Stock Awards to Management Grantees shall be recognized as follows:
 
1.
Compensation expense for stock granted to Brian Harris will be expensed immediately in accordance with the Harris Retirement Eligibility Date.

2.
Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to Pamela McCormack will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years, on an annual basis in advance of the McCormack Retirement Eligibility Date.

3.
Compensation expense for restricted stock subject to time-based vesting criteria granted to the Management Grantees other than Mr. Harris and Ms. McCormack will be expensed 1/3 each year, for three years, on an annual basis in advance of the Executive Retirement Eligibility Date.
 
Compensation cost for an award with a performance condition is accrued if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved and shall not be accrued if it is not probable that the performance condition will be achieved.

Upon a change in control (as defined in the respective award agreements), all restricted stock awards will become fully vested, if (1) the Management Grantee continues to be employed through the closing of the change in control or (2) after the signing of definitive documentation related to the change in control, but prior to its closing, the Management Grantee’s employment is terminated without cause or due to death or disability or the Management Grantee resigns for Good Reason. The compensation committee retains the right, in its sole discretion, to provide for the accelerated vesting (in whole or in part) of the restricted stock and option awards granted.

On December 21, 2017, Restricted Stock Awards were granted to certain non-management employees (each, a “Non-Management Grantee”) with an aggregate value of $5.0 million which represents 369,328 shares of restricted Class A common stock in connection with 2017 compensation. Fifty percent of each Restricted Stock Award granted is subject to time-based vesting criteria, and the remaining 50% of each Restricted Stock Award is subject to attainment of the Performance Target for the applicable years. The time-vesting restricted stock granted to Non-Management Grantees will vest in three installments on February 18 of each of 2019, 2020 and 2021 subject to continued employment on the applicable vesting dates. The performance-vesting restricted stock will vest in three equal installments upon the compensation committee’s confirmation that the Company achieves the Performance Target for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. The Catch-Up Provision applies to the performance vesting portion of this award. The Company has elected to recognize the compensation expense related to the time-based vesting criteria of these Restricted Stock Awards for the entire award on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. As such, the compensation expense related to the December 21, 2017 Restricted Stock Awards to Non-Management Grantees shall be recognized 1/3 for the period December 21, 2017 through February 18, 2019, 1/3 for the period February 19, 2019 through February 18, 2020 and 1/3 for the period February 19, 2020 through February 18, 2021.


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In the event a Non-Management Grantee is terminated by the Company without cause within six months of certain changes in control, all unvested time shares shall vest on the termination date and all unvested performance shares shall remain outstanding and be eligible to vest (and be forfeited) in accordance with the performance conditions; provided that if such change in control is for more than 50% of the shares of the Company, then all restricted stock awards will become fully vested if the Non-Management Grantee continues to be employed through the closing of the change in control.
 
Accruals of compensation cost for an award with a performance condition shall be based on the probable outcome of that performance condition.  Therefore, compensation cost shall be accrued if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved and shall not be accrued if it is not probable that the performance condition will be achieved.

2018 Restricted Stock Awards

On February 18, 2018, certain members of the board of directors each received Annual Restricted Stock Awards with a grant date fair value of $0.4 million, representing 25,370 shares of restricted Class A common stock, which will vest in full on the first anniversary of the date of grant, subject to continued service on the board of directors. Compensation expense related to the time-based vesting criteria of the award shall be recognized on a straight-line basis over the one-year vesting period.

Summary of Restricted Stock and Stock Option Expense and Shares/Options Nonvested/Outstanding

A summary of the grants is presented below ($ in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
Number
of Shares/Options
 
Weighted
Average
Fair Value
 
Number
of Shares/Options
 
Weighted
Average
Fair Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grants - Class A Common Stock (restricted)
25,370

 
$
375

 
832,408

 
$
11,616

Grants - Class A Common Stock (restricted) dividends
—

 
—

 
15,560

 
216

Stock Options
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Amortization to compensation expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ladder compensation expense
 

 
$
(2,400
)
 
 

 
$
(7,254
)
Total amortization to compensation expense
 

 
$
(2,400
)
 
 

 
$
(7,254
)

The table below presents the number of unvested shares and outstanding stock options at March 31, 2018 and changes during 2018 of the (i) Class A Common stock and Stock Options of Ladder Capital Corp granted under the 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan:

 
Restricted Stock
 
Stock Options
 
 
 
 
Nonvested/Outstanding at December 31, 2017
1,252,365

 
982,135

Granted
25,370

 
—

Exercised
 
 
—

Vested
(117,777
)
 
 
Forfeited
(11,169
)
 
—

Expired
 
 
—

Nonvested/Outstanding at March 31, 2018
1,148,789

 
982,135

 
 
 
 
Exercisable at March 31, 2018
 
 
929,701

 
At March 31, 2018 there was $12.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to certain share-based compensation awards that is expected to be recognized over a period of up to 35 months, with a weighted-average remaining vesting period of 25.3 months.

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The table below presents the number of unvested shares and outstanding stock options at March 31, 2017 and changes during 2017 of the (i) Class A Common stock and Stock Options of Ladder Capital Corp granted under the 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan and (ii) Series B Participating Preferred Units of LCFH granted under the 2008 Plan, which were subsequently converted to LP Units of LCFH in connection with the IPO:

 
Restricted Stock
 
Stock Options
 
 
 
 
Nonvested/Outstanding at December 31, 2016
1,475,865

 
982,135

Granted
847,968

 
—

Exercised
 
 
—

Vested
(1,423,934
)
 
 
Forfeited
—

 
—

Expired
 
 
—

Nonvested/Outstanding at March 31, 2017
899,899

 
982,135

 
 
 
 
Exercisable at March 31, 2017
 
 
752,017

 
As of March 31, 2017 there was $10.5 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to certain share-based compensation awards that is expected to be recognized over a period of up to 39 months, with a weighted-average remaining vesting period of 25.3 months.
 
Phantom Equity Investment Plan
 
LCFH maintained a Phantom Equity Investment Plan, effective on June 30, 2011 (the “Phantom Equity Plan”) in which certain eligible employees of LCFH, LCF and their subsidiaries participate. On July 3, 2014, the Board of Directors froze the Phantom Equity Plan, as further described below. The Phantom Equity Plan is an annual deferred compensation plan pursuant to which participants could elect, or in some cases, non-management participants could be required, depending upon the participant’s specific level of compensation, to defer all or a portion of their annual cash performance-based bonuses as elective or mandatory contributions. Generally, if a participant’s total compensation was in excess of a certain threshold, a portion of such participant’s annual bonus, was required to be deferred into the Phantom Equity Plan. Otherwise, amounts could be deferred into the Phantom Equity Plan at the election of the participant, so long as such election was timely made in accordance with the terms and procedures of the Phantom Equity Plan.
In the event that a participant elected to (or was required to) defer a portion of his or her compensation pursuant to the Phantom Equity Plan, such amount was not paid to the participant and was instead credited to such participant’s notional account under the Phantom Equity Plan. Prior to the closing of our IPO, such amounts were invested, on a phantom basis, in the Series B Participating Preferred Units issued by LCFH until such amounts were eventually paid to the participant pursuant to the Phantom Equity Plan. Following our IPO, as described below, such amounts were invested on a phantom basis in shares of the Company’s Class A common stock. Mandatory contributions are subject to one-third vesting over a three year period following the applicable Phantom Equity Plan year in which the related compensation was earned. Elective contributions were immediately vested upon contribution. Unvested amounts are generally forfeited upon the participant’s involuntary termination for cause, a voluntary termination for which the participant’s employer would have grounds to terminate the participant for cause or a voluntary termination within one year of which the participant obtains employment with a financial services organization.

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The date that the amounts deferred into the Phantom Equity Plan are paid to a participant depends upon whether such deferral is a mandatory deferral or an elective deferral. Elective deferrals are paid upon the earliest to occur of (1) a change in control (as defined in the Phantom Equity Plan), (2) the end of the participant’s employment, or (3) December 31, 2017. The vested amounts of the mandatory contributions are paid upon the first to occur of (A) a change in control and (B) the first to occur of (x) December 31, 2017 or (y) the date of payment of the annual bonus payments following December 31 of the third calendar year following the applicable plan year to which the underlying deferred annual bonus relates. The Company could elect to make, and did make, payments pursuant to the Phantom Equity Plan in the form of cash in an amount equal to the then fair market value of such shares of the Company’s Class A common stock (or, prior to our IPO, the Series B Participating Preferred Units), and on May 14, 2014, the Compensation Committee made a global election to make all payments pursuant to the Phantom Equity Plan in the form of cash. Mandatory contributions that were paid at the time specified in clause 2(B) above were made in cash.
Upon the closing of our IPO, each participant in the Phantom Equity Plan had his or her notional interest in LCFH’s Series B Participating Preferred Units converted into a notional interest in the Company’s Class A common stock, which notional conversion was based on the issuance price of our Class A common stock at the time of the IPO. On July 3, 2014, the board of directors froze the Phantom Equity Plan, effective as of such date, so that there will neither be future participants in the Phantom Equity Plan nor additional amounts contributed to any accounts outstanding under the Phantom Equity Plan. Amounts previously outstanding under the Phantom Equity Plan will be paid in accordance with their original payment terms, including limiting payment to the dates and events specified above. In connection with freezing the Phantom Equity Plan, the board of directors also updated the definition of fair market value for purposes of measuring the value of its Class A Common Stock, to provide that, generally, such value would be the closing price of such stock on the principal national securities exchange on which it is then traded.
The final payment, which closed the liability under the Phantom Equity Plan, was made on January 5, 2018. As of December 31, 2017, there were 42,270 phantom units that have been withdrawn from the plan, resulting in a liability of $1.0 million, which is included in accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheets.
 
Ladder Capital Corp Deferred Compensation Plan
 
On July 3, 2014, the Company adopted a new, nonqualified deferred compensation plan, which was amended and restated on March 17, 2015 (the “2014 Deferred Compensation Plan”), in which certain eligible employees participate.  Pursuant to the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan, participants may elect, or in some cases non-management participants may be required, to defer all or a portion of their annual cash performance-based bonuses into the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan.  Generally, if a participant’s total compensation is in excess of a certain threshold, a portion of a participant’s performance-based annual bonus is required to be deferred into the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan. Otherwise, a portion of the participant’s annual bonus may be deferred into the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan at the election of the participant, so long as such elections are timely made in accordance with the terms and procedures of the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan. 

In the event that a participant elects to (or is required to) defer a portion of his or her compensation pursuant to the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan, such amount is not paid to the participant and is instead credited to such participant’s notional account under the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan. Such amounts are then invested on a phantom basis in Class A common stock of the Company, or the phantom units, and a participant’s account is credited with any dividends or other distributions received by holders of Class A common stock of the Company, which are subject to the same vesting and payment conditions as the applicable contributions. Elective contributions are immediately vested upon contribution. Mandatory contributions are subject to one-third vesting over a three-year period on a straight-line basis following the applicable year in which the related compensation was earned.

If a participant’s employment with the Company is terminated by the Company other than for cause and such termination is within six months following a change in control (each, as defined in the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan), then the participant will fully vest in his or her unvested account balances. Furthermore, the unvested account balances will fully vest in the event of the participant’s death, disability, retirement (as defined in the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan) or in the event of certain hostile takeovers of the board of directors of the Company.  In the event that a participant’s employment is terminated by the Company other than for cause, the participant will vest in the portion of the participant’s account that would have vested had the participant remained employed through the end of the year in which such termination occurs, subject to, in such case or in the case of retirement, the participant’s timely execution of a general release of claims in favor of the Company. Unvested amounts are otherwise generally forfeited upon the participant’s resignation or termination of employment, and vested mandatory contributions are generally forfeited upon the participant’s termination for cause.

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Amounts deferred into the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan are paid upon the earliest to occur of (1) a change in control, (2) within sixty days following the end of the participant’s employment with the Company, or (3) the date of payment of the annual bonus payments following December 31 of the third calendar year following the applicable year to which the underlying deferred annual compensation relates.  Payment is made in cash equal to the fair market value of the number of phantom units credited to a participant’s account, provided that, if the participant’s termination was by the Company for cause or was a voluntary resignation other than on account of such participant’s retirement, the amount paid is based on the lowest fair market value of a share of Class A common stock during the forty-five day period following such termination of employment. The amount of the final cash payment may be more or less than the amount initially deferred into the 2014 Deferred Compensation Plan, depending upon the change in the value of the Class A common stock of the Company during such period.
 
As of March 31, 2018, there are 390,213 phantom units outstanding, of which 254,867 are unvested and 3,377 phantom units which have been withdrawn from the plan, resulting in a liability of $5.9 million, which is included in accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2017, there were 321,476 phantom units outstanding, of which 182,983 are unvested, resulting in a liability of $3.8 million, which is included in accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheets.
 
Bonus Payments
 
On December 19, 2017, the board of directors of Ladder Capital Corp approved 2018 bonus payments to employees, including officers, totaling $49.3 million, which included $15.5 million of equity based compensation, which was granted on December 21, 2017. Cash bonuses of $17.1 million were paid on December 29, 2017. The remaining $16.8 million of cash bonuses were accrued for as of December 31, 2018 and paid to employees in full on January 5, 2018. On February 8, 2017, the board of directors of Ladder Capital Corp approved 2017 bonus payments to employees, including officers, totaling $39.5 million, which included $10.2 million of equity based compensation. The bonuses were accrued for as of December 31, 2017 and paid to employees in full on February 21, 2017. During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded compensation expense of $10.1 million and $3.1 million, respectively, related to bonuses.
 

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16. INCOME TAXES
 
The Company elected to be taxed as a REIT under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, commencing with the taxable year ended December 31, 2015. As such, the Company’s income is generally not subject to U.S. Federal, state and local corporate income taxes other than as described below.
 
Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries have elected to be treated as TRSs. TRSs permit the Company to participate in certain activities from which REITs are generally precluded, as long as these activities meet specific criteria, are conducted within the parameters of certain limitations established by the Code, and are conducted in entities which elect to be treated as taxable subsidiaries under the Code. To the extent these criteria are met, the Company will continue to maintain its qualification as a REIT. The Company’s TRSs are not consolidated for U.S. federal income tax purposes, but are instead taxed as corporations. For financial reporting purposes, a provision for current and deferred taxes is established for the portion of earnings recognized by the Company with respect to its interest in TRSs.

There were $2.4 million, corporate taxes payable (receivable) as of March 31, 2018. Corporate taxes payable (receivable) as of December 31, 2017 were $2.6 million. There were $0.5 million NYC UBT taxes payable (receivable) at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. Prepaid corporate taxes as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 were $8.7 million and $12.4 million, respectively.

As part of the recently enacted Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the federal income tax rate applicable to TRS activities has been reduced. The Company has adjusted its deferred tax positions at the TRSs (including those resulting from the TRA) to reflect the reduced tax rate as part of its 2017 tax provision.

As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company’s net deferred tax assets (liabilities) were $(5.9) million and $(5.7) million, respectively, and are included in other assets (liabilities) in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The Company believes it is more likely than not that the net deferred tax assets (liabilities) will be realized in the future. Realization of the net deferred tax assets (liabilities) is dependent upon our generation of sufficient taxable income in future years in appropriate tax jurisdictions to obtain benefit from the reversal of temporary differences. The amount of net deferred tax assets (liabilities) considered realizable is subject to adjustment in future periods if estimates of future taxable income change.

As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company has a deferred tax asset of $2.3 million and $5.8 million, respectively, relating to capital losses which it may only use to offset capital gains. These tax attributes will expire if unused in 2020. As the realization of these assets are not more likely than not before their expiration, the Company has provided a full valuation allowance against this deferred tax asset.

The Company’s tax returns are subject to audit by taxing authorities. Generally, as of March 31, 2018, the tax years 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 remain open to examination by the major taxing jurisdictions in which the Company is subject to taxes. The IRS and New York State have recently begun routine audits of the Company’s U.S. federal and state income tax returns for tax year 2014 and 2013-2015 respectively. The Company does not expect the audits to result in any material changes to the Company’s financial position. The Company does not expect tax expense to have an impact on either short or long-term liquidity or capital needs.
 
Under U.S. GAAP, a tax benefit related to an income tax position may be recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities based on the technical merits of the position. A position that meets this standard is measured at the largest amount of benefit that will more likely than not be realized upon settlement. As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company’s unrecognized tax benefit is a liability for $0.8 million and is included in the accrued expenses in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. This unrecognized tax benefit, if recognized, would have a favorable impact on our effective income tax rate in future periods. As of March 31, 2018, the Company has not recognized a significant amount of any interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions. In addition, the Company does not believe that it has any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that it will be required to record a significant liability for unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months.


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Tax Receivable Agreement
 
Upon consummation of the IPO, the Company entered into a Tax Receivable Agreement with the Continuing LCFH Limited Partners (the “TRA Members”). Under the Tax Receivable Agreement the Company generally is required to pay to the TRA Members that exchange their interests in LCFH and Class B shares of the Company for Class A shares of the Company, 85% of the applicable cash savings, if any, in U.S. federal, state and local income tax that the Company realizes (or is deemed to realize in certain circumstances) as a result of (i) the increase in tax basis in its proportionate share of LCFH’s assets that is attributable to the Company as a result of the exchanges and (ii) payments under the Tax Receivable Agreement, including any tax benefits related to imputed interest deemed to be paid by the Company as a result of such agreement. The Company may make future payments under the Tax Receivable Agreement if the tax benefits are realized.  We would then benefit from the remaining 15% of cash savings in income tax that we realize. For purposes of the Tax Receivable Agreement, cash savings in income tax will be computed by comparing our actual income tax liability to the amount of such taxes that we would have been required to pay had there been no increase to the tax basis of the assets of LCFH as a result of the exchanges and had we not entered into the Tax Receivable Agreement.
 
Payments to a TRA Member under the Tax Receivable Agreement are triggered by each exchange and are payable annually commencing following the Company’s filing of its income tax return for the year of such exchange.  The timing of the payments may be subject to certain contingencies, including the Company having sufficient taxable income to utilize all of the tax benefits defined in the Tax Receivable Agreement.
 
As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, pursuant to the Tax Receivable Agreement, the Company recorded a liability of $1.6 million and $1.7 million, respectively, included in amount payable pursuant to tax receivable agreement in the consolidated balance sheets for TRA Members. The amount and timing of any payments may vary based on a number of factors, including the absence of any material change in the relevant tax law, the Company continuing to earn sufficient taxable income to realize all tax benefits, and assuming no additional exchanges that are subject to the Tax Receivable Agreement. Depending upon the outcome of these factors, the Company may be obligated to make substantial payments pursuant to the Tax Receivable Agreement. The actual payment amounts may differ from these estimated amounts, as the liability will reflect changes in prevailing tax rates, the actual benefit the Company realizes on its annual income tax returns, and any additional exchanges.
 
To determine the current amount of the payments due, the Company estimates the amount of the Tax Receivable Agreement payments that will be made within twelve months of the balance sheet date. As described in Note 1 above, the Tax Receivable Agreement was amended and restated in connection with the Company’s REIT Election, effective as of December 31, 2014 (the “TRA Amendment”), in order to preserve a portion of the potential tax benefits currently existing under the Tax Receivable Agreement that would otherwise be reduced in connection with our REIT Election. The purpose of the TRA Amendment was to preserve the benefits of the Tax Receivable Agreement to the extent possible in a REIT, although, as a result, the amount of payments made to the TRA Members under the TRA Amendment is expected to be less than the amount that would have been paid under the original Tax Receivable Agreement. The TRA Amendment continues to share such benefits in the same proportions and otherwise has substantially the same terms and provisions as the prior Tax Receivable Agreement.

17. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
Ladder Select Bond Fund

On October 18, 2016, Ladder Capital Asset Management LLC (“LCAM”), a subsidiary of the Company and a registered investment adviser, launched the Ladder Select Bond Fund (the “Fund”), a mutual fund. In addition, on October 18, 2016, the Company made a $10.0 million investment in the Fund, which is included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31, 2018, members of senior management have $0.9 million invested in the Fund. LCAM earns a 0.75% fee on assets under management, which may be reduced for expenses incurred in excess of the Fund’s expense cap of 0.95%.

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Stockholders Agreement
    
On March 3, 2017, Ladder, RREF II Ladder LLC, an entity affiliated with The Related Companies, and certain pre-IPO stockholders of Ladder, including affiliates of TowerBrook Capital Partners, L.P. and GI Partners L.P., closed a purchase by Related of $80.0 million of Ladder’s Class A common stock from the pre-IPO stockholders. As part of the closing of the transaction, Ladder and Related entered into a Stockholders Agreement, dated as of March 3, 2017, pursuant to which Jonathan Bilzin resigned from the Board, and all committees thereof, and Ladder appointed Richard O’Toole to replace Mr. Bilzin as a Class II Director on Ladder’s Board, each effective as of March 3, 2017. Pursuant to the Stockholders Agreement, Ladder granted to Related a right of first offer with respect to certain horizontal risk retention investments in which Ladder intends to retain an interest and Related agreed to certain standstill provisions.

Commercial Real Estate Loans

From time to time, the Company may provide commercial real estate loans to entities affiliated with certain of our directors, officers or large shareholders who are, as part of their ordinary course of business, commercial real estate investors. These loans are made in the ordinary course of the Company’s business on the same terms and conditions as would be offered to any other borrower of similar type and standing on a similar property.

On March 13, 2017, Related Reserve IV LLC, an affiliate of Related Fund Management LLC (the “B Participation Holder”), purchased a $4.0 million subordinate participation interest (the “B Participation Interest”) in the up to $136.5 million mortgage loan (the “Loan”) secured by the Conrad hotels and condominiums in Fort Lauderdale, Florida from a subsidiary of the Company. The B Participation Interest earns interest at an annual rate of 17%, with the Company’s participation interest (the “A Participation Interest”) receiving the balance of all interest paid under the Loan. Upon an event of default under the Loan, all receipts will be applied to the payment of interest and principal on the Company’s share of the principal balance before the B Participation Holder receives any sums. The Company retains all control over the administration and servicing of the whole loan, except that upon the occurrence of certain Loan defaults and other events, the B Participation Holder will have the option to trigger a buy-sell option, whereupon the Company shall have the right to either repurchase the B Participation Interest at par or sell the A Participation Interest to the B Participation Holder at par plus exit fees that would have been payable upon a borrower repayment. Because the participation interest was not pari passu and effective control continued to reside with the retained portions of the loans the transfers of any portion of this loan asset is considered a non-recourse secured borrowing in which the full loan asset remains on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets in mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost and the sale proceeds are reported as debt obligations. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company incurred $0.1 million and $35,944, respectively, in interest expense related to this loan which is included in accrued expenses on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

On July 6, 2017, Ladder provided a $21.0 million first mortgage loan to a borrower affiliated with The Related Companies to facilitate the acquisition of two commercial condominium units in the Brickell Heights mixed use development in Miami, Florida. The borrowing entity, Brickell Heights Commercial LLC, is 80% owned by a joint venture between Related Special Assets LLC, a personal investment vehicle for certain principals of The Related Companies, and another investor, with the remaining 20% interest belonging to an affiliate of The Related Group of Florida. This loan was sold to a securitization trust on October 31, 2017.

18. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
Leases
 
In 2011, the Company entered into a lease for its primary office space, which commenced on October 1, 2011 and expires on January 31, 2022 with no extension option. In 2012, the Company entered into a lease for secondary office space. The lease commenced on May 15, 2012 and would have expired on May 14, 2015 with no extension option. This lease was amended, however, on October 2, 2014, extending the expiration date from May 14, 2015 to May 14, 2018. The Company recorded $0.3 million and $0.3 million, of rental expense for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which is included in operating expenses in the consolidated statements of income.
 

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The following is a schedule of future minimum rental payments required under the above operating leases ($ in thousands):
 
Period Ending December 31,
 
Amount
 
 
 

2018 (last 9 months)
 
$
892

2019
 
1,180

2020
 
1,180

2021
 
1,180

2022
 
99

Thereafter
 
—

Total
 
$
4,531


Unfunded Loan Commitments
 
As of March 31, 2018, the Company’s off-balance sheet arrangements consisted of $213.6 million of unfunded commitments on mortgage loan receivables held for investment to provide additional first mortgage loan financing, at rates to be determined at the time of funding. As of December 31, 2017, the Company’s off-balance sheet arrangements consisted of $157.0 million of unfunded commitments of mortgage loan receivables held for investment to provide additional first mortgage loan financing, at rates to be determined at the time of funding. Such commitments are subject to our loan borrowers’ satisfaction of certain financial and nonfinancial covenants and may or may not be funded depending on a variety of circumstances including timing, credit metric hurdles, and other nonfinancial events occurring. These commitments are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. 


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19. SEGMENT REPORTING
 
The Company has determined that it has three reportable segments based on how the chief operating decision maker reviews and manages the business. These reportable segments include loans, securities, and real estate. The loans segment includes mortgage loan receivables held for investment (balance sheet loans) and mortgage loan receivables held for sale (conduit loans). The securities segment is composed of all of the Company’s activities related to commercial real estate securities, which include investments in CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities. The real estate segment includes net leased properties, office buildings, a mobile home community, a warehouse, a shopping center and condominium units. Corporate/other includes the Company’s investments in joint ventures, other asset management activities and operating expenses.

The Company evaluates performance based on the following financial measures for each segment ($ in thousands):
 
Loans
 
Securities
 
Real
Estate(1)
 
Corporate/Other(2)
 
Company
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three months ended March 31, 2018
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Interest income
$
70,009

 
$
8,014

 
$
5

 
$
178

 
$
78,206

Interest expense
(13,566
)
 
(856
)
 
(7,854
)
 
(22,437
)
 
(44,713
)
Net interest income (expense)
56,443

 
7,158

 
(7,849
)
 
(22,259
)
 
33,493

Provision for loan losses
(3,000
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(3,000
)
Net interest income (expense) after provision for loan losses
53,443

 
7,158

 
(7,849
)
 
(22,259
)
 
30,493

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating lease income
—

 
—

 
24,560

 
—

 
24,560

Tenant recoveries
—

 
—

 
3,577

 
—

 
3,577

Sale of loans, net
4,888

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
4,888

Realized gain on securities
—

 
(1,099
)
 
—

 
—

 
(1,099
)
Unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities
—

 
204

 
—

 
—

 
204

Realized gain (loss) on sale of real estate, net
—

 
—

 
31,010

 
—

 
31,010

Fee and other income
3,063

 
—

 
1,782

 
1,407

 
6,252

Net result from derivative transactions
6,889

 
8,070

 
—

 
—

 
14,959

Earnings from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
—

 
—

 
52

 
—

 
52

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt
(69
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(69
)
Total other income (expense)
14,771

 
7,175

 
60,981

 
1,407

 
84,334

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Salaries and employee benefits
—

 
—

 
—

 
(17,096
)
 
(17,096
)
Operating expenses
86

 
—

 
—

 
(5,634
)
 
(5,548
)
Real estate operating expenses
—

 
—

 
(8,817
)
 


 
(8,817
)
Fee expense
(616
)
 
(110
)
 
(117
)
 
—

 
(843
)
Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
(10,804
)
 
(19
)
 
(10,823
)
Total costs and expenses
(530
)
 
(110
)
 
(19,738
)
 
(22,749
)
 
(43,127
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax (expense) benefit
—

 
—

 
—

 
(3,902
)
 
(3,902
)
Segment profit (loss)
$
67,684

 
$
14,223

 
$
33,394

 
$
(47,503
)
 
$
67,798

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets as of March 31, 2018
$
3,794,821

 
$
1,100,105

 
$
1,015,423

 
$
320,945

 
$
6,231,294


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Loans
 
Securities
 
Real
Estate(1)
 
Corporate/Other(2)
 
Company
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three months ended March 31, 2017
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Interest income
$
44,297

 
$
13,208

 
$
3

 
$
4

 
$
57,512

Interest expense
(6,253
)
 
(1,853
)
 
(6,550
)
 
(16,759
)
 
(31,415
)
Net interest income (expense)
38,044

 
11,355

 
(6,547
)
 
(16,755
)
 
26,097

Provision for loan losses
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Net interest income (expense) after provision for loan losses
38,044

 
11,355

 
(6,547
)
 
(16,755
)
 
26,097

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating lease income
—

 
—

 
19,630

 
—

 
19,630

Tenant recoveries
—

 
—

 
1,579

 
—

 
1,579

Sale of loans, net
(999
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(999
)
Realized gain on securities
—

 
5,361

 
—

 
—

 
5,361

Unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities
—

 
159

 
—

 
—

 
159

Realized gain on sale of real estate, net
—

 
—

 
2,331

 
—

 
2,331

Fee and other income
1,621

 
—

 
1,973

 
872

 
4,466

Net result from derivative transactions
(1,681
)
 
(300
)
 
—

 
—

 
(1,981
)
Earnings from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
—

 
—

 
(74
)
 
—

 
(74
)
Loss on extinguishment of debt
—

 
—

 
—

 
(54
)
 
(54
)
Total other income
(1,059
)
 
5,220

 
25,439

 
818

 
30,418

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Salaries and employee benefits
(1,000
)
 
—

 
—

 
(15,042
)
 
(16,042
)
Operating expenses
43

 
—

 
—

 
(5,522
)
 
(5,479
)
Real estate operating expenses
—

 
—

 
(7,454
)
 
—

 
(7,454
)
Fee expense
(535
)
 
(94
)
 
(64
)
 
—

 
(693
)
Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
(8,569
)
 
(23
)
 
(8,592
)
Total costs and expenses
(1,492
)
 
(94
)
 
(16,087
)
 
(20,587
)
 
(38,260
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income tax (expense) benefit
—

 
—

 
—

 
1,375

 
1,375

Segment profit (loss)
$
35,493

 
$
16,481

 
$
2,805

 
$
(35,149
)
 
$
19,630

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets as of December 31, 2017
$
3,508,642

 
$
1,106,517

 
$
1,067,482

 
$
342,974

 
$
6,025,615

 
(1)
Includes the Company’s investment in unconsolidated joint ventures that held real estate of $34.6 million and $35.4 million as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.
(2)
Corporate/Other represents all corporate level and unallocated items including any intercompany eliminations necessary to reconcile to consolidated Company totals. This caption also includes the Company’s investment in unconsolidated joint ventures and strategic investments that are not related to the other reportable segments above, including the Company’s investment in FHLB stock of $77.9 million as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company’s deferred tax asset (liability) of $(5.9) million and $(5.7) million as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively and the Company’s senior unsecured notes of $1.2 billion and $1.2 billion as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.


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20. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
 
The Company has evaluated subsequent events through the issuance date of the financial statements and determined that no disclosure is necessary.

Committed Loan Repurchase Facilities

On April 3, 2018, the Company exercised its option to extend one of its credit facilities with a major banking institution for a term of one year and agreed with such banking institution to decrease the maximum funding capacity under such facility from $450 million to $350 million together with other related modifications, all of which will be memorialized in definitive documentation.








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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes of Ladder Capital Corp included within this Quarterly Report and the Annual Report. This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements. See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” within this Quarterly Report and “Risk Factors” within the Annual Report for a discussion of the uncertainties, risks and assumptions associated with these statements. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to, those in “Risk Factors” set forth within the Annual Report. References to “Ladder,” the “Company,” and “we,” “our” and “us” refer to Ladder Capital Corp, a Delaware corporation incorporated in 2013, and its consolidated subsidiaries. 

Ladder Capital Corp is the sole general partner of Ladder Capital Finance Holdings LLLP (“LCFH”) and, as a result of the serialization of LCFH on December 31, 2014, became the sole general partner of Series REIT of LCFH. LC TRS I LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Series REIT of LCFH, is the general partner of Series TRS of LCFH. Ladder Capital Corp has a controlling interest in Series REIT of LCFH, and through such controlling interest, also has a controlling interest in Series TRS of LCFH. Ladder Capital Corp’s only business is to act as the sole general partner of LCFH and Series REIT of LCFH, and, as a result of the foregoing, Ladder Capital Corp directly and indirectly operates and controls all of the business and affairs of LCFH, and each Series thereof, and consolidates the financial results of LCFH, and each Series thereof, into Ladder Capital Corp’s consolidated financial statements.

Overview

We are a leading commercial real estate finance company structured as an internally-managed REIT. We conduct our business through three commercial real estate-related business lines: loans, securities, and real estate investments. We believe that our in-house origination platform, ability to flexibly allocate capital among complementary product lines, credit-centric underwriting approach, access to diversified financing sources, and experienced management team position us well to deliver attractive returns on equity to our shareholders through economic and credit cycles.

Our businesses, including balance sheet lending, conduit lending, securities investments, and real estate investments, provide for a stable base of net interest and rental income. We have originated $21.0 billion of commercial real estate loans from our inception through March 31, 2018. During this timeframe, we also acquired $9.9 billion of investment grade-rated securities secured by first mortgage loans on commercial real estate and $1.6 billion of selected net leased and other real estate assets.

As part of our commercial mortgage lending operations, we originate conduit loans, which are first mortgage loans on stabilized, income producing commercial real estate properties that we intend to make available for sale in commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) securitizations. From our inception in October 2008 through March 31, 2018, we originated $14.7 billion of conduit loans, $14.5 billion of which were sold into 52 CMBS securitizations, making us, by volume, the second largest non-bank contributor of loans to CMBS securitizations in the United States in such period. Our sales of loans into securitizations are generally, historically accounted for as true sales, not financings, and we generally retain no ongoing interest in loans which we securitize unless we are required to do so as issuer pursuant to the risk retention requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act. The securitization of conduit loans enables us to reinvest our equity capital into new loan originations or allocate it to other investments.

As of March 31, 2018, we had $6.2 billion in total assets and $1.5 billion of total equity. Our assets included $3.8 billion of loans, $1.1 billion of securities, and $1.0 billion of real estate.


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We have a diversified and flexible financing strategy supporting our business operations, including unsecured debt and significant committed term financing from leading financial institutions. As of March 31, 2018, we had $266.2 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.875% senior notes due 2021 (the “2021 Notes”), $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.25% senior notes due 2022 (the “2022 Notes”) and $400.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.25% senior notes due 2025 (the “2025 Notes,” collectively with the 2021 Notes and the 2022 Notes, the “Notes”). In addition, as of March 31, 2018, we had $4.6 billion of debt financing outstanding. This financing was comprised of $1.3 billion of financing from the Federal Home Loan Bank (the “FHLB”), $649.3 million committed secured term repurchase agreement financing, $105.1 million of other securities financing, $683.5 million of third-party, non-recourse mortgage debt and $683.1 million of collateralized loan obligation (“CLO”) debt. There were no borrowings outstanding under our Revolving Credit Facility and $2.8 million of participation financing - mortgage loan receivable. As of March 31, 2018, we had $2.2 billion of committed, undrawn funding capacity available, consisting of $241.4 million of availability under our $241.4 million Revolving Credit Facility, $585.5 million of undrawn committed FHLB financing and $1.4 billion of other undrawn committed financings. As of March 31, 2018, our debt-to-equity ratio was 3.1:1.0, as we employ leverage prudently to maximize financial flexibility. Our adjusted leverage, a non-GAAP financial measure, was 2.6:1.0 as of March 31, 2018. See “—Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for our definition of adjusted leverage and a reconciliation to debt obligations, net.
 
Ladder was founded in October 2008 and we completed our IPO in February 2014. We are led by a disciplined and highly aligned management team. As of March 31, 2018, our management team and directors held interests in our Company comprising 12.1% of our total equity. On average, our management team members have 28 years of experience in the industry. Our management team includes Brian Harris, Chief Executive Officer; Pamela McCormack, President; Marc Fox, Chief Financial Officer; Thomas Harney, Head of Merchant Banking & Capital Markets; and Robert Perelman, Head of Asset Management. Additional officers of Ladder include Kelly Porcella, General Counsel and Secretary, and Kevin Moclair, Chief Accounting Officer. We employ 67 full-time industry professionals.

We are organized and conduct our operations to qualify as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). As such, we will generally not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on that portion of our net income that is distributed to shareholders if we distribute at least 90% of our taxable income and comply with certain other requirements.

Recent Developments

Committed Loan Repurchase Facilities

On April 3, 2018, the Company exercised its option to extend one of its credit facilities with a major banking institution for a term of 1 year and agreed with such banking institution to decrease the maximum funding capacity under such facility from $450 million to $350 million together with other related modifications, all of which will be memorialized in definitive documentation.




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Our Businesses

We invest primarily in loans, securities and other interests in U.S. commercial real estate, with a focus on senior secured assets. Our complementary business segments are designed to provide us with the flexibility to opportunistically allocate capital in order to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns under varying market conditions. The following table summarizes the value of our investment portfolio as reported in our consolidated financial statements as of the dates indicated below ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
Loans
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
Balance sheet loans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance sheet first mortgage loans
$
3,370,086

 
54.1
 %
 
$
3,123,268

 
51.9
 %
Other commercial real estate-related loans
158,099

 
2.5
 %
 
159,194

 
2.6
 %
Provision for loan losses
(7,000
)
 
(0.1
)%
 
(4,000
)
 
(0.1
)%
Total balance sheet loans
3,521,185

 
56.5
 %
 
3,278,462

 
54.4
 %
Conduit first mortgage loans
273,636

 
4.4
 %
 
230,180

 
3.8
 %
Total loans
3,794,821

 
60.9
 %
 
3,508,642

 
58.2
 %
Securities
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

CMBS investments
1,061,319

 
17.0
 %
 
1,066,570

 
17.7
 %
U.S. Agency Securities investments
38,786

 
0.6
 %
 
39,947

 
0.7
 %
Total securities
1,100,105

 
17.6
 %
 
1,106,517

 
18.4
 %
Real Estate
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Real estate and related lease intangibles, net
980,859

 
15.7
 %
 
1,032,041

 
17.1
 %
Total real estate
980,859

 
15.7
 %
 
1,032,041

 
17.1
 %
Other Investments
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures
34,564

 
0.6
 %
 
35,441

 
0.6
 %
FHLB stock
77,915

 
1.3
 %
 
77,915

 
1.3
 %
Total other investments
112,479

 
1.9
 %
 
113,356

 
1.9
 %
Total investments
5,988,264

 
96.1
 %
 
5,760,556

 
95.6
 %
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
113,159

 
1.8
 %
 
182,683

 
3.0
 %
Other assets
129,871

 
2.1
 %
 
82,376

 
1.4
 %
Total assets
$
6,231,294

 
100.0
 %
 
$
6,025,615

 
100.0
 %

We invest in the following types of assets:
 
Loans
 
Balance Sheet First Mortgage Loans.  We originate and invest in balance sheet first mortgage loans secured by commercial real estate properties that are undergoing transition, including lease-up, sell-out, and renovation or repositioning. These mortgage loans are structured to fit the needs and business plans of the property owners, and generally have LIBOR based floating rates and terms (including extension options) ranging from one to five years. Our loans are directly originated by an internal team that has longstanding and strong relationships with borrowers and mortgage brokers throughout the United States. We follow a rigorous investment process, which begins with an initial due diligence review; continues through a comprehensive legal and underwriting process incorporating multiple internal and external checks and balances; and culminates in approval or disapproval of each prospective investment by our Investment Committee. Balance sheet first mortgage loans in excess of $50.0 million also require the approval of our board of directors’ Risk and Underwriting Committee.


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We generally seek to hold our balance sheet first mortgage loans for investment although we also maintain the flexibility to contribute such loans into a CLO or similar structure, sell participation interests or “b-notes” in our mortgage loans or sell such mortgage loans as whole loans. These investments have been typically repaid at or prior to maturity (including by being refinanced by us into a new conduit first mortgage loan upon property stabilization). As of March 31, 2018, we held a portfolio of 167 balance sheet first mortgage loans with an aggregate book value of $3.4 billion. Based on the loan balances and the “as-is” third-party FIRREA appraised values at origination, the weighted average loan-to-value ratio of this portfolio was 66.5% at March 31, 2018.
 
Other Commercial Real Estate-Related Loans.  We selectively invest in note purchase financings, subordinated debt, mezzanine debt and other structured finance products related to commercial real estate that are generally held for investment. As of March 31, 2018, we held a portfolio of 32 other commercial real estate-related loans with an aggregate book value of $158.1 million. Based on the loan balance and the “as-is” third-party FIRREA appraised values at origination, the weighted average loan-to-value ratio of the portfolio was 69.9% at March 31, 2018.

Conduit First Mortgage Loans.  We also originate conduit loans, which are first mortgage loans that are secured by cash-flowing commercial real estate and are available for sale to securitizations. These first mortgage loans are typically structured with fixed interest rates and generally have five- to ten-year terms. Conduit first mortgage loans are originated, underwritten, approved and funded using the same comprehensive legal and underwriting approach, process and personnel used to originate our balance sheet first mortgage loans. Conduit first mortgage loans in excess of $50.0 million also require approval of our board of directors’ Risk and Underwriting Committee.

Although our primary intent is to sell our conduit first mortgage loans to CMBS trusts, we generally seek to maintain the flexibility to keep them on our balance sheet, sell participation interests or “b-notes” in our conduit first mortgage loans or sell conduit first mortgage loans as whole loans. From our inception in 2008 through March 31, 2018, we have originated and funded $14.7 billion of conduit first mortgage loans and securitized $14.5 billion of such mortgage loans in 52 separate transactions, including two securitizations in 2010, three securitizations in 2011, six securitizations in 2012, six securitizations in 2013, 10 securitizations in 2014, 10 securitizations in 2015, six securitizations in 2016, seven securitizations in 2017 and two securitizations in 2018. We generally securitize our loans together with certain financial institutions, which to date have included affiliates of Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, UBS Securities LLC and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC. We have also completed three single-asset securitizations, executed a Ladder-only multi-borrower securitization from Ladder’s CMBS shelf in June 2017 and completed our first contributions of shorter-term loans into CLO transactions in the fourth quarter of 2017. As of March 31, 2018, we held 17 first mortgage loans that were substantially available for contribution into a securitization with an aggregate book value of $273.6 million. Based on the loan balances and the “as-is” third-party Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989 (“FIRREA”) appraised values at origination, the weighted average loan- to-value ratio of this portfolio was 60.1% at March 31, 2018. The Company holds these conduit loans in its taxable REIT subsidiary (“TRS”).

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The following charts set forth our total outstanding balance sheet first mortgage loans, other commercial real estate-related loans, mortgage loans transferred but not considered sold and conduit first mortgage loans as of March 31, 2018 and a breakdown of our loan portfolio by loan size and geographic location and asset type of the underlying real estate.

loanpiechart033118.jpg

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Securities
 
CMBS Investments.  We invest in CMBS secured by first mortgage loans on commercial real estate and own predominantly AAA-rated securities. These investments provide a stable and attractive base of net interest income and help us manage our liquidity. We have significant in-house expertise in the evaluation and trading of CMBS, due in part to our experience in originating and underwriting mortgage loans that comprise assets within CMBS trusts, as well as our experience in structuring CMBS transactions. AAA-rated CMBS investments in excess of $50.0 million and all other investment grade securities positions in excess of $26.0 million require the approval of our board of directors’ Risk and Underwriting Committee. The Risk and Underwriting Committee also must approve the lesser of (x) $21,000,000 and (y) 10% of the total net asset value of the respective Ladder investment company for non-rated or sub-investment grade securities. As of March 31, 2018, the estimated fair value of our portfolio of CMBS investments totaled $1.1 billion in 119 CUSIPs ($8.9 million average investment per CUSIP). As of March 31, 2018, included in the $1.1 billion of CMBS securities are $12.5 million of CMBS securities designated as risk retention securities under the Dodd-Frank Act which are subject to transfer restrictions over the term of the securitization trust. As of that date, 100% of our CMBS investments were rated investment grade by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Group, Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or Fitch Ratings Inc., consisting of 78.6% AAA/Aaa-rated securities and 21.4% of other investment grade-rated securities, including 16.9% rated AA/Aa, 2.5% rated A/A and 2.0% rated BBB/Baa. In the future, we may invest in CMBS securities or other securities that are unrated. As of March 31, 2018, our CMBS investments had a weighted average duration of 2.9 years. The commercial real estate collateral underlying our CMBS investment portfolio is located throughout the United States. As of March 31, 2018, by property count and market value, respectively, 58.6% and 77.0% of the collateral underlying our CMBS investment portfolio was distributed throughout the top 25 metropolitan statistical areas (“MSAs”) in the United States, with 2.0% and 34.7%, by property count and market value, respectively, of the collateral located in the New York-Newark-Edison MSA, and the concentrations in each of the remaining top 24 MSAs ranging from 0.0% to 13.6% by property count and 0.0% to 21.0% by market value.

U.S. Agency Securities Investments.  Our U.S. Agency Securities portfolio consists of securities for which the principal and interest payments are guaranteed by a U.S. government agency, such as the Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”), or by a government-sponsored enterprise (“GSE”), such as the Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”) or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac”). In addition, these securities are secured by first mortgage loans on commercial real estate. Investments in U.S. Agency Securities are subject to the same Risk and Underwriting Committee approval requirements as CMBS investments, as described above. As of March 31, 2018, the estimated fair value of our portfolio of U.S. Agency Securities was $38.8 million in 21 CUSIPs ($1.8 million average investment per CUSIP), with a weighted average duration of 5.3 years. The commercial real estate collateral underlying our U.S. Agency Securities portfolio is located throughout the United States. As of March 31, 2018, by market value, 76.1% and 18.0% of the collateral underlying our U.S. Agency Securities, excluding the collateral underlying our Agency interest-only securities, was located in New York and California, respectively, with no other state having a concentration greater than 10.0%. By property count, California represented 75.9% and New York represented 3.4% of such collateral. While the specific geographic concentration of our Agency interest-only securities portfolio as of March 31, 2018 is not obtainable, risk relating to any such possible concentration is mitigated by the interest payments of these securities being guaranteed by a U.S. government agency or a GSE.

Real Estate

Commercial Real Estate Properties.  As of March 31, 2018, we owned 132 single tenant net leased properties with an aggregate book value of $677.3 million. These properties are fully leased on a net basis where the tenant is generally responsible for payment of real estate taxes, property, building and general liability insurance and property and building maintenance expenses. As of March 31, 2018, our net leased properties comprised a total of 5.1 million square feet, 100% leased with an average age since construction of 14.5 years and a weighted average remaining lease term of 14.0 years. Commercial real estate investments in excess of $20.0 million require the approval of our board of directors’ Risk and Underwriting Committee.
 

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In addition, as of March 31, 2018, we owned 33 diversified commercial real estate properties with an aggregate book value of $288.7 million. Through separate joint ventures, we owned a portfolio of 12 office buildings in Richmond, VA with a book value of $79.5 million with an 92.2% occupancy rate, a portfolio of four single-tenant office buildings in St. Paul, MN with a book value of $49.5 million, an apartment complex in Miami, FL with a book value of $36.3 million and an occupancy rate of 94.1%, an unleased industrial building in Lithia Springs, GA with an aggregate book value of $24.4 million, a portfolio of seven office buildings in Richmond, VA with a book value of $15.9 million and an 82.2% occupancy rate, a 13-story office building in Oakland County, MI with a book value of $11.5 million and a 86.9% occupancy rate, a two-story office building in Grand Rapids, MI with a book value of $8.7 million and a 100.0% occupancy rate, and a single-tenant industrial building in Grand Rapids, MI with a book value of $5.4 million. We also own a single-tenant office building in Ewing, NJ with a book value of $29.2 million, a single-tenant office building in Crum Lynne, PA with a book value of $10.4 million, a single-tenant two-story office building in Wayne, NJ with a book value of $8.5 million, a shopping center in Carmel, NY with a book value of $6.5 million and a 42.6% occupancy rate, and an office building in Peoria, IL with a book value of $3.0 million and a 50.8% occupancy rate.

Residential Real Estate.  We sold two condominium units at Veer Towers in Las Vegas, NV, during the three months ended March 31, 2018, generating aggregate gains on sale of $1.1 million. As of March 31, 2018, we owned 11 residential condominium units at Veer Towers in Las Vegas, NV with a book value of $4.0 million through a joint venture, and we expect to substantially complete the sale of these remaining units in 2018. As of March 31, 2018, two condominium units were under contract for sale with a book value of $0.6 million. As of March 31, 2018, none of the remaining condominium units we hold were rented and occupied.
 
We sold eight condominium units at Terrazas River Park Village in Miami, FL, during the three months ended March 31, 2018, generating aggregate gains on sale of $0.5 million. As of March 31, 2018, we owned 40 residential condominium units at Terrazas River Park Village in Miami, FL with a book value of $10.8 million, and we intend to sell these remaining units in less than 18 months. As of March 31, 2018, four condominium units were under contract for sale with a book value of $0.9 million. As of March 31, 2018, the remaining condominium units we hold were 81.3% rented and occupied. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company recorded $0.2 million of rental income from the condominium units.

The Company holds these residential condominium units in its TRS.

The following table, organized by tenant type and acquisition date, summarizes our owned properties as of March 31, 2018 ($ amounts in thousands):

Location
 
Acquisition date
 
Acquisition price/basis
 
Year built/reno.
 
Lease expiration (1)
 
Approx. square footage
 
Carrying value of asset
 
Mortgage loan outstanding (2)
 
Asset net of mortgage loan outstanding
 
Annual rental income (3)
 
Ownership Percentage (4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Leased
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rockford, MN
 
12/08/17
 
$
1,195

 
2017
 
10/31/32
 
9,002

 
$
1,231

 
$
884

 
$
347

 
$
87

 
100.0
%
 
Winterset, IA
 
12/08/17
 
1,258

 
2017
 
8/31/32
 
9,026

 
1,292

 
932

 
360

 
91

 
100.0
%
 
Kawkawlin, MI
 
10/05/17
 
1,234

 
2017
 
7/31/32
 
9,100

 
1,274

 
915

 
359

 
89

 
100.0
%
 
Aroma Park, IL
 
10/05/17
 
1,218

 
2017
 
7/31/32
 
9,002

 
1,241

 
950

 
291

 
88

 
100.0
%
 
East Peoria, IL
 
10/05/17
 
1,350

 
2017
 
7/31/32
 
9,100

 
1,374

 
1,020

 
354

 
98

 
100.0
%
 
Milford, IA
 
09/08/17
 
1,298

 
2017
 
6/1/32
 
9,100

 
1,334

 
989

 
345

 
94

 
100.0
%
 
Jefferson City, MO
 
06/02/17
 
1,241

 
2016
 
2/28/32
 
9,002

 
1,306

 
953

 
353

 
90

 
100.0
%
 
Denver, IA
 
05/31/17
 
1,183

 
2017
 
3/31/31
 
9,026

 
1,200

 
907

 
293

 
86

 
100.0
%
 
Port O'Connor, TX
 
05/25/17
 
1,255

 
2017
 
3/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,272

 
958

 
314

 
91

 
100.0
%
 
Wabasha, MN
 
05/25/17
 
1,280

 
2016
 
3/31/31
 
9,026

 
1,329

 
974

 
355

 
92

 
100.0
%
 
Jacksonville, FL
 
05/23/17
 
115,641

 
1989
 
9/30/31
 
822,540

 
137,643

 
83,483

 
54,160

 
7,296

 
100.0
%
 
Shelbyville, IL
 
05/23/17
 
1,132

 
2016
 
1/31/31
 
9,026

 
1,209

 
871

 
338

 
82

 
100.0
%
 
Jesup, IA
 
05/05/17
 
1,163

 
2017
 
3/31/30
 
9,026

 
1,169

 
893

 
276

 
84

 
100.0
%
 
Hanna City, IL
 
04/11/17
 
1,141

 
2016
 
6/30/31
 
9,100

 
1,198

 
873

 
325

 
83

 
100.0
%
 
Ridgedale, MO
 
03/09/17
 
1,298

 
2016
 
6/30/31
 
9,002

 
1,329

 
1,001

 
328

 
94

 
100.0
%
 
Peoria, IL
 
02/06/17
 
1,183

 
2016
 
8/31/31
 
7,489

 
1,234

 
912

 
322

 
86

 
100.0
%
 
Carmi, IL
 
02/03/17
 
1,411

 
2016
 
10/31/31
 
9,100

 
1,401

 
1,110

 
291

 
102

 
100.0
%
 
Springfield, IL
 
11/16/16
 
1,308

 
2016
 
6/30/31
 
9,026

 
1,365

 
1,011

 
354

 
96

 
100.0
%
 

82
Table of Contents

Location
 
Acquisition date
 
Acquisition price/basis
 
Year built/reno.
 
Lease expiration (1)
 
Approx. square footage
 
Carrying value of asset
 
Mortgage loan outstanding (2)
 
Asset net of mortgage loan outstanding
 
Annual rental income (3)
 
Ownership Percentage (4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fayetteville, NC
 
11/15/16
 
6,971

 
2008
 
10/31/34
 
14,820

 
6,643

 
4,930

 
1,713

 
450

 
100.0
%
 
Dryden Township, MI
 
10/26/16
 
1,190

 
2016
 
8/31/31
 
9,100

 
1,234

 
919

 
315

 
87

 
100.0
%
 
Lamar, MO
 
07/22/16
 
1,176

 
2016
 
5/31/31
 
9,100

 
1,184

 
909

 
275

 
86

 
100.0
%
 
Union, MO
 
07/01/16
 
1,227

 
2016
 
5/31/31
 
9,100

 
1,282

 
953

 
329

 
90

 
100.0
%
 
Pawnee, IL
 
07/01/16
 
1,201

 
2016
 
5/31/31
 
9,002

 
1,176

 
953

 
223

 
88

 
100.0
%
 
Decatur, IL
 
06/30/16
 
1,365

 
2016
 
5/31/31
 
9,002

 
1,417

 
1,060

 
357

 
100

 
100.0
%
 
Cape Girardeau, MO
 
06/30/16
 
1,281

 
2016
 
5/31/31
 
9,100

 
1,322

 
1,019

 
303

 
94

 
100.0
%
 
Linn, MO
 
06/30/16
 
1,122

 
2016
 
5/31/31
 
9,002

 
1,135

 
867

 
268

 
82

 
100.0
%
 
Rantoul, IL
 
06/21/16
 
1,204

 
2016
 
4/30/31
 
9,100

 
1,241

 
932

 
309

 
88

 
100.0
%
 
Flora Vista, NM
 
06/06/16
 
1,305

 
2016
 
4/30/31
 
9,002

 
1,262

 
1,010

 
252

 
95

 
100.0
%
 
Champaign, IL
 
06/03/16
 
1,324

 
2016
 
4/30/31
 
9,002

 
1,373

 
1,025

 
348

 
97

 
100.0
%
 
Mountain Grove, MO
 
06/03/16
 
1,279

 
2016
 
4/30/31
 
10,566

 
1,334

 
989

 
345

 
93

 
100.0
%
 
Decatur, IL
 
06/03/16
 
1,181

 
2016
 
4/30/31
 
9,002

 
1,215

 
947

 
268

 
86

 
100.0
%
 
San Antonio, TX
 
05/06/16
 
1,096

 
2015
 
3/31/31
 
9,100

 
1,091

 
887

 
204

 
80

 
100.0
%
 
Borger, TX
 
05/06/16
 
978

 
2016
 
3/31/31
 
9,100

 
990

 
784

 
206

 
71

 
100.0
%
 
St.Charles, MN
 
04/26/16
 
1,198

 
2016
 
3/31/31
 
9,026

 
1,193

 
961

 
232

 
87

 
100.0
%
 
Philo, IL
 
04/26/16
 
1,156

 
2016
 
3/31/31
 
9,026

 
1,180

 
924

 
256

 
84

 
100.0
%
 
Dimmitt, TX
 
04/26/16
 
1,319

 
2016
 
3/31/31
 
10,566

 
1,319

 
1,049

 
270

 
96

 
100.0
%
 
Radford, VA
 
12/23/15
 
1,564

 
2015
 
9/30/30
 
8,360

 
1,469

 
1,136

 
333

 
104

 
100.0
%
 
Albion, PA
 
12/23/15
 
1,525

 
2015
 
9/30/30
 
8,184

 
1,386

 
1,130

 
256

 
101

 
100.0
%
 
Rural Retreat, VA
 
12/23/15
 
1,399

 
2015
 
9/30/30
 
8,305

 
1,317

 
1,043

 
274

 
93

 
100.0
%
 
Mount Vernon, AL
 
12/23/15
 
1,224

 
2015
 
6/30/30
 
8,323

 
1,157

 
948

 
209

 
84

 
100.0
%
 
Malone, NY
 
12/16/15
 
1,474

 
2015
 
6/30/30
 
8,320

 
1,382

 
1,087

 
295

 
99

 
100.0
%
 
Mercedes, TX
 
12/16/15
 
1,263

 
2015
 
11/30/30
 
9,100

 
1,197

 
838

 
359

 
86

 
100.0
%
 
Gordonville, MO
 
11/10/15
 
1,207

 
2015
 
9/30/30
 
9,026

 
1,138

 
774

 
364

 
80

 
100.0
%
 
Rice, MN
 
10/28/15
 
1,242

 
2015
 
9/30/30
 
9,002

 
1,142

 
820

 
322

 
85

 
100.0
%
 
Bixby, OK
 
10/27/15
 
12,151

 
2012
 
12/31/32
 
75,996

 
11,446

 
7,981

 
3,465

 
769

 
100.0
%
 
Farmington, IL
 
10/23/15
 
1,408

 
2015
 
8/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,317

 
899

 
418

 
93

 
100.0
%
 
Grove, OK
 
10/20/15
 
5,583

 
2012
 
8/31/32
 
31,500

 
5,166

 
3,637

 
1,529

 
364

 
100.0
%
 
Jenks, OK
 
10/19/15
 
13,418

 
2009
 
9/24/33
 
80,932

 
12,578

 
8,831

 
3,747

 
912

 
100.0
%
 
Bloomington, IL
 
10/14/15
 
1,294

 
2015
 
8/31/30
 
9,026

 
1,213

 
820

 
393

 
85

 
100.0
%
 
Montrose, MN
 
10/14/15
 
1,193

 
2015
 
8/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,091

 
786

 
305

 
83

 
100.0
%
 
Lincoln County , MO
 
10/14/15
 
1,137

 
2015
 
8/31/30
 
9,002

 
1,065

 
741

 
324

 
76

 
100.0
%
 
Wilmington, IL
 
10/07/15
 
1,399

 
2015
 
8/31/30
 
9,002

 
1,310

 
905

 
405

 
93

 
100.0
%
 
Danville, IL
 
10/07/15
 
1,160

 
2015
 
8/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,092

 
741

 
351

 
76

 
100.0
%
 
Moultrie, GA
 
09/22/15
 
1,305

 
2014
 
6/30/29
 
8,225

 
1,193

 
933

 
260

 
85

 
100.0
%
 
Rose Hill, NC
 
09/22/15
 
1,420

 
2014
 
6/30/29
 
8,320

 
1,312

 
1,003

 
309

 
93

 
100.0
%
 
Rockingham, NC
 
09/22/15
 
1,158

 
2014
 
6/30/29
 
8,320

 
1,061

 
824

 
237

 
76

 
100.0
%
 
Biscoe, NC
 
09/22/15
 
1,216

 
2014
 
6/30/29
 
8,320

 
1,118

 
863

 
255

 
80

 
100.0
%
 
De Soto, IL
 
09/08/15
 
1,111

 
2015
 
7/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,032

 
706

 
326

 
76

 
100.0
%
 
Kerrville, TX
 
08/28/15
 
1,236

 
2015
 
7/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,136

 
769

 
367

 
84

 
100.0
%
 
Floresville, TX
 
08/28/15
 
1,312

 
2015
 
7/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,211

 
815

 
396

 
89

 
100.0
%
 
Minot, ND
 
08/19/15
 
6,946

 
2012
 
1/31/34
 
55,440

 
6,550

 
4,701

 
1,849

 
419

 
100.0
%
 
Lebanon, MI
 
08/14/15
 
1,261

 
2015
 
7/31/30
 
9,050

 
1,190

 
821

 
369

 
85

 
100.0
%
 
Effingham County, IL
 
08/10/15
 
1,252

 
2015
 
6/30/30
 
9,002

 
1,169

 
821

 
348

 
85

 
100.0
%
 
Ponce, PR
 
08/03/15
 
9,345

 
2012
 
8/31/37
 
15,660

 
8,738

 
6,525

 
2,213

 
560

 
100.0
%
 
Tremont, IL
 
06/25/15
 
1,192

 
2015
 
5/31/30
 
9,026

 
1,102

 
791

 
311

 
82

 
100.0
%
 
Pleasanton, TX
 
06/24/15
 
1,377

 
2015
 
5/31/30
 
9,026

 
1,272

 
867

 
405

 
93

 
100.0
%
 
Peoria, IL
 
06/24/15
 
1,293

 
2015
 
5/31/30
 
9,002

 
1,195

 
857

 
338

 
87

 
100.0
%
 

83
Table of Contents

Location
 
Acquisition date
 
Acquisition price/basis
 
Year built/reno.
 
Lease expiration (1)
 
Approx. square footage
 
Carrying value of asset
 
Mortgage loan outstanding (2)
 
Asset net of mortgage loan outstanding
 
Annual rental income (3)
 
Ownership Percentage (4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bridgeport, IL
 
06/24/15
 
1,241

 
2015
 
5/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,150

 
824

 
326

 
84

 
100.0
%
 
Warren, MN
 
06/24/15
 
1,090

 
2015
 
4/30/30
 
9,100

 
985

 
697

 
288

 
75

 
100.0
%
 
Canyon Lake, TX
 
06/18/15
 
1,443

 
2015
 
3/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,333

 
909

 
424

 
98

 
100.0
%
 
Wheeler, TX
 
06/18/15
 
1,127

 
2015
 
3/31/30
 
9,002

 
1,024

 
718

 
306

 
76

 
100.0
%
 
Aurora, MN
 
06/18/15
 
993

 
2015
 
3/31/30
 
9,100

 
918

 
630

 
288

 
68

 
100.0
%
 
Red Oak, IA
 
05/07/15
 
1,208

 
2014
 
10/31/29
 
9,026

 
1,097

 
778

 
319

 
84

 
100.0
%
 
Zapata, TX
 
05/07/15
 
1,204

 
2015
 
3/31/30
 
9,100

 
1,066

 
746

 
320

 
82

 
100.0
%
 
St. Francis, MN
 
03/26/15
 
1,180

 
2014
 
1/31/30
 
9,002

 
1,042

 
732

 
310

 
79

 
100.0
%
 
Yorktown, TX
 
03/25/15
 
1,301

 
2015
 
2/28/30
 
10,566

 
1,152

 
784

 
368

 
86

 
100.0
%
 
Battle Lake, MN
 
03/25/15
 
1,168

 
2014
 
2/28/30
 
9,100

 
1,025

 
719

 
306

 
78

 
100.0
%
 
Paynesville, MN
 
03/05/15
 
1,254

 
2015
 
11/30/26
 
9,100

 
1,133

 
804

 
329

 
89

 
100.0
%
 
Wheaton, MO
 
03/05/15
 
970

 
2015
 
11/30/29
 
9,100

 
868

 
651

 
217

 
69

 
100.0
%
 
Rotterdam, NY
 
03/03/15
 
12,619

 
1996
 
8/31/32
 
115,660

 
10,665

 
8,908

 
1,757

 
940

 
100.0
%
 
Hilliard, OH
 
03/02/15
 
6,384

 
2007
 
8/31/32
 
14,820

 
5,826

 
4,576

 
1,250

 
399

 
100.0
%
 
Niles, OH
 
03/02/15
 
5,200

 
2007
 
11/30/32
 
14,820

 
4,736

 
3,718

 
1,018

 
325

 
100.0
%
 
Youngstown, OH
 
02/20/15
 
5,400

 
2005
 
9/30/30
 
14,820

 
4,890

 
3,836

 
1,054

 
336

 
100.0
%
 
Kings Mountain, NC
 
01/29/15
 
24,167

 
1995
 
9/30/30
 
467,781

 
25,584

 
18,660

 
6,924

 
1,534

 
100.0
%
 
Iberia, MO
 
01/23/15
 
1,328

 
2015
 
12/31/29
 
10,542

 
1,190

 
896

 
294

 
94

 
100.0
%
 
Pine Island, MN
 
01/23/15
 
1,142

 
2014
 
4/30/27
 
9,100

 
1,009

 
770

 
239

 
81

 
100.0
%
 
Isle, MN
 
01/23/15
 
1,077

 
2014
 
1/31/30
 
9,100

 
950

 
724

 
226

 
77

 
100.0
%
 
Jacksonville, NC
 
01/22/15
 
8,632

 
2014
 
12/31/29
 
55,000

 
7,905

 
5,684

 
2,221

 
517

 
100.0
%
 
Evansville, IN
 
11/26/14
 
9,000

 
2014
 
12/31/35
 
71,680

 
8,127

 
6,431

 
1,696

 
540

 
100.0
%
 
Woodland Park, CO
 
11/14/14
 
3,969

 
2014
 
8/31/29
 
22,141

 
3,501

 
2,802

 
699

 
258

 
100.0
%
 
Bellport, NY
 
11/13/14
 
18,100

 
2014
 
8/16/34
 
87,788

 
16,273

 
12,842

 
3,431

 
1,119

 
100.0
%
 
Ankeny, IA
 
11/04/14
 
16,510

 
2013
 
10/30/34
 
94,872

 
14,921

 
11,713

 
3,208

 
991

 
100.0
%
 
Springfield, MO
 
11/04/14
 
11,675

 
2011
 
10/30/34
 
88,793

 
10,769

 
8,360

 
2,409

 
701

 
100.0
%
 
Cedar Rapids, IA
 
11/04/14
 
11,000

 
2012
 
10/30/34
 
79,389

 
9,638

 
7,804

 
1,834

 
660

 
100.0
%
 
Fairfield, IA
 
11/04/14
 
10,695

 
2011
 
10/30/34
 
69,280

 
9,534

 
7,591

 
1,943

 
642

 
100.0
%
 
Owatonna, MN
 
11/04/14
 
9,970

 
2010
 
10/30/34
 
70,825

 
8,960

 
7,124

 
1,836

 
598

 
100.0
%
 
Muscatine, IA
 
11/04/14
 
7,150

 
2013
 
10/30/34
 
78,218

 
7,884

 
5,109

 
2,775

 
429

 
100.0
%
 
Sheldon, IA
 
11/04/14
 
4,300

 
2011
 
10/30/34
 
35,385

 
3,912

 
3,072

 
840

 
258

 
100.0
%
 
Memphis, TN
 
10/24/14
 
5,310

 
1962
 
12/31/29
 
68,761

 
4,620

 
3,920

 
700

 
358

 
100.0
%
 
Bennett, CO
 
10/02/14
 
3,522

 
2014
 
8/31/29
 
21,930

 
3,079

 
2,489

 
590

 
229

 
100.0
%
 
Conyers, GA
 
08/28/14
 
32,530

 
2014
 
4/30/29
 
499,668

 
28,934

 
22,835

 
6,099

 
1,956

 
100.0
%
 
O'Fallon, IL
 
08/08/14
 
8,000

 
1984
 
1/31/28
 
141,436

 
7,086

 
5,686

 
1,400

 
460

 
100.0
%
 
El Centro, CA
 
08/08/14
 
4,277

 
2014
 
6/30/29
 
19,168

 
3,830

 
2,983

 
847

 
278

 
100.0
%
 
Durant, OK
 
01/28/13
 
4,991

 
2007
 
2/28/33
 
14,550

 
4,314

 
3,234

 
1,080

 
323

 
100.0
%
 
Gallatin, TN
 
12/28/12
 
5,062

 
2007
 
6/30/82
 
14,820

 
4,453

 
3,305

 
1,148

 
329

 
100.0
%
 
Mt. Airy, NC
 
12/27/12
 
4,492

 
2007
 
6/30/82
 
14,820

 
4,007

 
2,935

 
1,072

 
292

 
100.0
%
 
Aiken, SC
 
12/21/12
 
5,926

 
2008
 
2/28/83
 
14,550

 
5,183

 
3,866

 
1,317

 
384

 
100.0
%
 
Johnson City, TN
 
12/21/12
 
5,262

 
2007
 
9/30/82
 
14,550

 
4,514

 
3,436

 
1,078

 
341

 
100.0
%
 
Palmview, TX
 
12/19/12
 
6,820

 
2012
 
8/31/87
 
14,820

 
5,962

 
4,558

 
1,404

 
437

 
100.0
%
 
Ooltewah, TN
 
12/18/12
 
5,703

 
2008
 
1/31/83
 
14,550

 
4,901

 
3,817

 
1,084

 
365

 
100.0
%
 
Abingdon, VA
 
12/18/12
 
4,688

 
2006
 
6/30/81
 
15,371

 
4,317

 
3,065

 
1,252

 
300

 
100.0
%
 
Wichita, KS
 
12/14/12
 
7,200

 
2012
 
10/15/62
 
73,322

 
5,908

 
4,776

 
1,132

 
536

 
100.0
%
 
North Dartmouth, MA
 
09/21/12
 
29,965

 
1989
 
7/31/57
 
103,680

 
23,211

 
18,923

 
4,288

 
2,212

 
100.0
%
 
Vineland, NJ
 
09/21/12
 
22,507

 
2003
 
7/31/57
 
115,368

 
17,783

 
13,894

 
3,889

 
1,662

 
100.0
%
 
Saratoga Springs, NY
 
09/21/12
 
20,222

 
1994
 
7/31/57
 
116,620

 
15,810

 
12,484

 
3,326

 
1,493

 
100.0
%
 
Waldorf, MD
 
09/21/12
 
18,803

 
1999
 
7/31/57
 
115,660

 
15,720

 
11,607

 
4,113

 
1,388

 
100.0
%
 

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Location
 
Acquisition date
 
Acquisition price/basis
 
Year built/reno.
 
Lease expiration (1)
 
Approx. square footage
 
Carrying value of asset
 
Mortgage loan outstanding (2)
 
Asset net of mortgage loan outstanding
 
Annual rental income (3)
 
Ownership Percentage (4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mooresville, NC
 
09/21/12
 
17,644

 
2000
 
7/31/57
 
108,528

 
13,661

 
10,892

 
2,769

 
1,303

 
100.0
%
 
Sennett, NY
 
09/21/12
 
7,476

 
1996
 
7/31/57
 
68,160

 
5,718

 
4,721

 
997

 
628

 
100.0
%
 
DeLeon Springs, FL
 
08/13/12
 
1,242

 
2011
 
1/31/27
 
9,100

 
964

 
817

 
147

 
98

 
100.0
%
 
Orange City, FL
 
05/23/12
 
1,317

 
2011
 
3/31/27
 
9,026

 
1,024

 
798

 
226

 
103

 
100.0
%
 
Satsuma, FL
 
04/19/12
 
1,092

 
2011
 
11/30/26
 
9,026

 
809

 
718

 
91

 
86

 
100.0
%
 
Greenwood, AR
 
04/12/12
 
5,147

 
2009
 
7/31/84
 
13,650

 
4,375

 
3,405

 
970

 
332

 
100.0
%
 
Snellville, GA
 
04/04/12
 
8,000

 
2011
 
4/30/32
 
67,375

 
6,438

 
5,312

 
1,126

 
626

 
100.0
%
 
Columbia, SC
 
04/04/12
 
7,800

 
2001
 
4/30/32
 
71,744

 
6,481

 
5,167

 
1,314

 
610

 
100.0
%
 
Millbrook, AL
 
03/28/12
 
6,941

 
2008
 
1/31/83
 
14,820

 
5,811

 
4,591

 
1,220

 
448

 
100.0
%
 
Pittsfield, MA
 
02/17/12
 
14,700

 
2011
 
10/31/61
 
85,188

 
12,022

 
11,102

 
920

 
1,118

 
100.0
%
 
Spartanburg, SC
 
01/14/11
 
3,870

 
2007
 
8/31/82
 
14,820

 
3,339

 
2,638

 
701

 
291

 
100.0
%
 
Tupelo, MS
 
08/13/10
 
5,128

 
2007
 
11/30/92
 
14,691

 
4,164

 
3,090

 
1,074

 
400

 
100.0
%
 
Lilburn, GA
 
08/12/10
 
5,791

 
2007
 
4/30/82
 
14,752

 
4,677

 
3,474

 
1,203

 
443

 
100.0
%
 
Douglasville, GA
 
08/12/10
 
5,409

 
2008
 
10/31/83
 
13,434

 
4,529

 
3,264

 
1,265

 
417

 
100.0
%
 
Elkton, MD
 
07/27/10
 
4,872

 
2008
 
9/30/82
 
13,706

 
3,940

 
2,925

 
1,015

 
380

 
100.0
%
 
Lexington, SC
 
06/28/10
 
4,732

 
2009
 
9/30/83
 
14,820

 
3,937

 
2,901

 
1,036

 
362

 
100.0
%
 
Total Net Leased
 
724,365

 
 
 
 
 
5,091,472

 
677,325

 
498,407

 
178,918

 
48,515

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diversified
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lithia Springs, GA
 
03/08/18
 
24,466

 
2005
 
(5)
 
617,969

 
24,423

 
—

 
24,423

 
—

 
70.6
%
(6)
Crum Lynne, PA
 
09/29/17
 
9,196

 
1999
 
9/30/32
 
56,320

 
10,433

 
6,033

 
4,400

 
675

 
100.0
%
 
Miami, Fl
 
08/31/17
 
38,145

 
1987
 
9/30/18
 
166,176

 
36,297

 
—

 
36,297

 
3,542

 
80.0
%
(6)
Peoria, IL
 
10/21/16
 
2,760

 
1926
 
7/31/30
 
252,940

 
3,012

 
—

 
3,012

 
1,633

 
100.0
%
 
Ewing, NJ
 
08/04/16
 
30,640

 
2009
 
7/31/30
 
110,765

 
29,153

 
21,808

 
7,345

 
1,959

 
100.0
%
 
Carmel, NY
 
10/14/15
 
6,706

 
1985
 
1/31/39
 
50,121

 
6,487

 
—

 
6,487

 
233

 
100.0
%
 
Wayne, NJ
 
06/24/15
 
9,700

 
1980
 
7/31/27
 
56,387

 
8,538

 
6,655

 
1,883

 
1,156

 
100.0
%
 
Grand Rapids, MI
 
06/18/15
 
9,731

 
1963
 
6/30/24
 
97,167

 
8,667

 
7,222

 
1,445

 
858

 
97.0
%
(6)
Grand Rapids, MI
 
06/18/15
 
6,300

 
1992
 
6/30/24
 
160,000

 
5,367

 
4,916

 
451

 
560

 
97.0
%
(6)
St. Paul, MN
 
09/22/14
 
62,540

 
1900
 
10/1/21
 
760,318

 
49,515

 
47,400

 
2,115

 
12,878

 
97.0
%
(6)(7)
Richmond, VA
 
08/14/14
 
19,850

 
1986
 
4/30/21
 
195,881

 
15,860

 
15,794

 
66

 
2,832

 
77.5
%
(6)
Richmond, VA
 
06/07/13
 
118,405

 
1984
 
4/30/21
 
994,040

 
79,473

 
75,252

 
4,221

 
13,038

 
77.5
%
(6)
Oakland County, MI
 
02/01/13
 
18,000

 
1989
 
12/31/21
 
240,900

 
11,456

 
—

 
11,456

 
3,485

 
90.0
%
(6)
Total Diversified
 
356,439

 
 
 
 
 
3,758,984

 
288,681

 
185,080

 
103,601

 
42,849

 
 
 
Condominium
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Miami, FL
 
11/21/13
 
80,000

 
2010
 
 
 
(8)
 
10,808

 
—

 
10,808

 
772

 
100.0
%
(9)
Las Vegas, NV
 
12/20/12
 
119,000

 
2006
 
 
 
(10)
 
4,045

 
—

 
4,045

 
—

 
98.8
%
(6)(11)
Total Condominium
 
199,000

 
 
 
 
 
—

 
14,853

 
—

 
14,853

 
772

 
 
 
Total
 
 
 
$
1,279,804

 
 
 
 
 
8,850,456

 
$
980,859

 
$
683,487

 
$
297,372

 
$
92,136

 
 
 
 
(1)
Lease expirations reflect the earliest date the lease is cancellable without penalty, although actual terms may be longer.
(2)
Non-recourse.
(3)
Annual rental income represents twelve months of contractual rental income, excluding concessions, due under leases outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2018. Operating lease income on the consolidated statements of income represents rental income earned and recorded on a straight line basis over the term of the lease.
(4)
Properties were consolidated as of acquisition date.
(5)
No lease in place.
(6)
See Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements for further information regarding noncontrolling interests.
(7)
Includes real estate acquired for parking purposes on April 21, 2016 with an acquisition price of $0.2 million and a carrying value of $0.4 million as of March 31, 2018.

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(8)
40 remaining condominium units. As of March 31, 2018, four condominium units were under contract for sale with a book value of $0.9 million.
(9)
We own a portfolio of residential condominium units, some of which are subject to residential leases. We intend to sell these units. The residential leases are generally short term in nature and are not included in the table above given our intention to sell the units.
(10)
11 remaining condominium units. As of March 31, 2018, two condominium units were under contract for sale with a book value of $0.6 million.
(11)
We own, through a majority-owned joint venture with an operating partner, a portfolio of residential condominium units, some of which are subject to residential leases. The joint venture intends to sell these units. The residential leases are generally short term in nature and are not included in the table above given the joint venture’s intention to sell the units.

Other Investments

Unconsolidated Joint Venture.  In connection with the origination of a loan in April 2012, we received a 25% equity kicker with the right to convert upon a capital event. On March 22, 2013, we refinanced the loan, and we converted our equity kicker interest into a 19% limited liability company membership interest in Grace Lake JV, LLC (“Grace Lake LLC”). As of March 31, 2018, Grace Lake LLC owned an office building campus with a carrying value of $61.4 million, which is net of accumulated depreciation of $22.7 million, that is financed by $68.5 million of long-term debt. Debt of Grace Lake LLC is non-recourse to the limited liability company members, except for customary non-recourse carve-outs for certain actions and environmental liability. As of March 31, 2018, the book value of our investment in Grace Lake LLC was $3.9 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, we received a $1.3 million distribution from our investment in Grace Lake JV, LLC.
 
Unconsolidated Joint Venture.  On August 7, 2015, the Company entered into a joint venture, 24 Second Avenue Holdings LLC (“24 Second Avenue”), with an operating partner to invest in a ground-up condominium construction and development project located at 24 Second Avenue, New York, NY. The Company contributed $31.1 million for a 73.8% interest, with the operating partner holding the remaining 26.2% interest. The Company is entitled to income allocations and distributions based upon its membership interest of 73.8% until the Company achieves a 1.70x profit multiple, after which, income is allocated and distributed 50% to the Company and 50% to the operating partner. As of December 31, 2016, the previously existing building had been demolished and the site was cleared with all supportive excavation work completed, and we are anticipating completion of the new construction in 2018. 24 Second Avenue consists of 31 residential condominium units and one commercial condominium unit. As of March 31, 2018, 11 residential condominium units were under contract for sale for $30.4 million in sales proceeds. As of March 31, 2018, the Company is holding a 10.0% deposit on each sales contract. Our operating partner entered into a construction loan with The Bank of the Ozarks in the amount of $50.5 million to fund the completion of the project. As of March 31, 2018, draws of $39.0 million have been taken against the construction loan. The Company has no remaining capital commitment to our operating partner. As of March 31, 2018, the book value of our investment in 24 Second Avenue was $30.6 million.

FHLB Stock. Tuebor Captive Insurance Company LLC (“Tuebor”) is a member of the FHLB. Each member of the FHLB must purchase and hold FHLB stock as a condition of initial and continuing membership, in proportion to their borrowings from the FHLB and levels of certain assets. Members may need to purchase additional stock to comply with these capital requirements from time to time. FHLB stock is redeemable by Tuebor upon five years’ prior written notice, subject to certain restrictions and limitations. Under certain conditions, the FHLB may also, at its sole discretion, repurchase FHLB stock from its members. As of March 31, 2018, the book value of our investment in FHLB Stock was $77.9 million.

Our Financing Strategies
 
Our financing strategies are critical to the success and growth of our business. We manage our financing to complement our asset composition and to diversify our exposure across multiple capital markets and counterparties.
 
We fund our investments in commercial real estate loans and securities through multiple sources, including the $611.6 million of gross cash proceeds we raised in our initial equity private placement beginning in October 2008, the $257.4 million of gross cash proceeds we raised in our follow-on equity private placement in the third quarter of 2011, proceeds from the issuance of $325.0 million of 2017 Notes in 2012, the $238.5 million of net proceeds from the issuance of Class A common stock in 2014, proceeds from the issuance of $300.0 million of 2021 Notes in 2014, proceeds from the issuance of $500.0 million of 2022 Notes and $400.0 million of 2025 Notes in 2017, current and future earnings and cash flow from operations, existing debt facilities, and other borrowing programs in which we participate.
 

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We finance our portfolio of commercial real estate loans using committed term facilities provided by multiple financial institutions, with total commitments of $1.7 billion at March 31, 2018, a $241.4 million Revolving Credit Facility, CLO transactions and through our FHLB membership. As of March 31, 2018, there was $550.5 million outstanding under the committed term facilities. We finance our securities portfolio, including CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities, through our FHLB membership, a $400.0 million committed term master repurchase agreement from a leading domestic financial institution and uncommitted master repurchase agreements with numerous counterparties. As of March 31, 2018, we had total outstanding balances of $203.9 million under all securities master repurchase agreements. We finance our real estate investments with non-recourse first mortgage loans. As of March 31, 2018, we had outstanding balances of $683.5 million on these non-recourse mortgage loans.

In addition to the amounts outstanding on our other facilities, we had $1.3 billion of borrowings from the FHLB outstanding at March 31, 2018. As of March 31, 2018, we also had a $241.4 million Revolving Credit Facility, with no borrowings outstanding, and $1.2 billion of Notes issued and outstanding. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” and Note 8, Debt Obligations, Net in our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report for more information about our financing arrangements.
 
We enter into interest rate and credit spread derivative contracts to mitigate our exposure to changes in interest rates and credit spreads. We generally seek to hedge the interest rate risk on the financing of assets that have a duration longer than five years, including newly-originated conduit first mortgage loans, securities in our CMBS portfolio if long enough in duration, and most of our U.S. Agency Securities portfolio. We monitor our asset profile and our hedge positions to manage our interest rate and credit spread exposures, and we seek to match fund our assets according to the liquidity characteristics and expected holding periods of our assets.
 
We generally seek to maintain a debt-to-equity ratio of approximately 3.0:1.0 or below. We expect this ratio to fluctuate during the course of a fiscal year due to the normal course of business in our conduit lending operations, in which we generally securitize our inventory of conduit loans at intervals, and also because of changes in our asset mix, due in part to such securitizations. As of March 31, 2018, our debt-to-equity ratio was 3.1:1.0. Our adjusted leverage, a non-GAAP financial measure, was 2.6:1.0 as of March 31, 2018. See “—Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for our definition of adjusted leverage and a reconciliation to debt obligations, net. We believe that our predominantly senior secured assets and our moderate leverage provide financial flexibility to be able to capitalize on attractive market opportunities as they arise.
 
From time to time, we may add financing counterparties that we believe will complement our business, although the agreements governing our indebtedness may limit our ability and the ability of our present and future subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness. Our amended and restated charter and by-laws do not impose any threshold limits on our ability to use leverage.

Business Outlook
 
We believe the commercial real estate finance market is currently characterized by strong demand for fixed and floating rate mortgage financing supported by stable property values in most parts of the U.S. The demand is driven by acquisitions and refinancings of existing properties, the need to fund expenditures to renovate or otherwise improve buildings, and new real estate development. After an extended period of low and stable interest rates in the U.S., recent interest rate increases and concerns regarding the potential for additional future interest rate increases has also contributed to demand for long term fixed rate mortgage financing. More than $1.8 trillion of commercial real estate debt is scheduled to mature over the next five years (according to Trepp), providing a substantial foundation of demand for mortgage financing services going forward.
From our perspective as a commercial mortgage lender that finances its customers’ real estate investments nationwide, the trends observed in the commercial mortgage backed securities market are often informative and somewhat predictive. In 2017, new U.S. CMBS issuance volume increased 27.1% to $87.8 billion in comparison to 2016, a year in which swings in credit spreads created uncertainty for lenders and borrowers thereby suppressing transaction activity. The return to positive annual growth in U.S. CMBS issuance volume in 2017 was, at least in part, due to more stable credit spread environment that was also favorable. The tightening of CMBS credit spreads that generally prevailed during 2017 is seen as reflective of the potential for the healthy and stable conditions to continue to prevail in the commercial real estate lending market in 2018. The U.S. CMBS new issuance market has gotten off to a positive start in 2018, with issuance for the first three months of 2018 totaling $19.4 billion, a 39.0% increase over the same period in 2017.


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We believe the CMBS market will continue to play an important role in the financing of commercial real estate that is expected to produce substantial streams of stabilized income over multiple years and we expect to continue to participate in this market as a loan originator and a contributor of loans to securitization transactions in which CMBS are issued. We also expect to continue to be active as a lender to owners of properties that are in transition and are expected to start generating substantial streams of stabilized income after the financed property’s transition plan has been executed. Our ability to offer borrowers mortgage loan financing on transitional properties enables us to remain an active lender even when the CMBS market experiences disruptions or periods of slower activity that impair the origination of new loans for securitization.

Reflected in all of these lending and financing capabilities that Ladder applies in its daily operations is its ability to apply superior credit skills in the underwriting of commercial real estate debt and equity investments while maintaining the ability to efficiently shift capital among mortgage loans, securities, and real estate investments. Underwriting commercial real estate credit risk is Ladder’s core strength—and Ladder expresses its view of the commercial real estate market and of specific investment opportunities within it by making loans, investing in debt securities, and acquiring real estate—constantly fine-tuning that mix of investments in an ongoing effort to optimize risk adjusted returns on equity.

Factors impacting operating results
 
There are a number of factors that influence our operating results in a meaningful way. The most significant factors include: (1) our competition; (2) market and economic conditions; (3) loan origination volume; (4) profitability of securitizations; (5) avoidance of credit losses; (6) availability of debt and equity funding and the costs of that funding; (7) the net interest margin on our investments; (8) effectiveness of our hedging and other risk management practices; (9) real estate transactions volumes; (10) occupancy rates; and (11) expense management.

Results of Operations
 
Three months ended March 31, 2018 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2017
 
Investment overview
 
Investment activity in the three months ended March 31, 2018 focused on loan originations, securities activity and real estate sales. We originated and funded $967.5 million in principal value of commercial mortgage loans in the three months ended March 31, 2018. We acquired $135.1 million of new securities, which was offset by $122.4 million of sales and $3.0 million of amortization in the portfolio, which partially contributed to a net decrease in our securities portfolio of $6.4 million during the three months ended March 31, 2018. We also invested $24.5 million in real estate and received proceeds from the sale of real estate of $97.5 million.
 
Investment activity in the three months ended March 31, 2017 focused on loan originations and securities activity. We originated and funded $529.7 million in principal value of commercial mortgage loans in the three months ended March 31, 2017. We acquired $45.7 million of new securities, which was offset by $361.3 million of sales and $74.3 million of amortization in the portfolio, which partially contributed to a net decrease in our securities portfolio of $399.0 million. We also invested $3.9 million in real estate and received proceeds from the sale of real estate of $6.3 million.

Operating overview

Net income (loss) attributable to Class A common shareholders totaled $50.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $13.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The most significant drivers of the $37.4 million increase are as follows:

•
an increase in total other income of $53.9 million, primarily as a result of a $28.7 million increase in gain (loss) on the sale of real estate, a $17.0 million increase in net results from derivative transactions, an increase of $5.9 million in sale of loans, net and a $5.0 million increase in operating lease income, partially offset by a $6.5 million decrease in realized gain (loss) on securities;

•
an increase in net interest income of $7.4 million, primarily as a result of higher average loan balances and higher interest expense primarily attributable to the increase in LIBOR rates throughout 2017 and 2018, partially offset by the decrease in the average yield on the securities portfolio year-over-year;


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•
an increase in total costs and expenses of $4.9 million compared to the prior year, primarily as a result of a $2.2 million increase in depreciation and amortization, a $1.1 million increase in salaries and employee benefits and a $1.3 million increase in real estate operating expenses;

•
an increase in income tax expense (benefit) of $5.3 million compared to the prior year, primarily as a result of increased income in our TRSs and certain other one-time adjustments.
 
Core Earnings, a non-GAAP financial measure, totaled $63.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $31.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The significant components of the $32.2 million increase in Core Earnings are an increase in sale of real estate, net of $28.7 million, an increase in net results from derivative transactions of $10.8 million, an increase in net interest income of $4.4 million, an increase in profits on sales of loans, net of $5.8 million, a $4.9 million increase in operating lease income, partially offset by an increase of total costs and expenses of $11.7 million and a decrease of $6.5 million in gain (loss) on securities. See “—Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for our definition of Core Earnings and a reconciliation to income (loss) before taxes.

Net interest income
 
Interest income totaled $78.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $57.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, securities investments averaged $1.1 billion and loan investments averaged $4.0 billion. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, securities investments averaged $1.8 billion and loan investments averaged $2.5 billion. There was a $1.5 billion increase in loan investments, partially offset by a $757.4 million decrease in securities investments, resulting in higher interest income due to the higher yield on loans versus securities.

Interest expense totaled $44.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $31.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The $13.3 million increase in interest expense was primarily attributable to an increase in average debt obligations, the increase in LIBOR rates throughout 2017 and 2018 and a shift away from borrowings from the FHLB and securities repurchase financing, a lower cost source of funding, to higher cost, loan repurchase financing and senior unsecured notes. Our interest expense also includes interest expense related to mortgage loan financing against our real estate investments. Our investment in real estate and related lease intangibles, net has continued to increase during 2018 and 2017 and our mortgage loan financing secured by such investments has also similarly increased. Our interest expense related to mortgage loan financing increased by $1.4 million from $7.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 to $8.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily as a result of our increase in average outstanding mortgage loan financing of $691.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 compared to $589.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and the increase in the average cost of financing.

Net interest income after provision for loan losses totaled $30.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $26.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The $4.4 million increase in net interest income after provision for loan losses was primarily attributable to the increase in net interest income and increase in interest expense discussed above, partially offset by the increase in our provision for loan losses discussed below.
 
Cost of funds, a non-GAAP financial measure, totaled $47.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $35.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The $12.5 million increase in cost of funds was primarily attributable to the increase in LIBOR rates throughout 2017 and 2018 and a shift away from borrowings from the FHLB and securities repurchase financing, a lower cost source of funding, to higher cost, loan repurchase financing and senior unsecured notes.
 
We present cost of funds, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, as a supplemental measure of the Company’s cost of debt financing. We define cost of funds as interest expense as reported on our consolidated statements of income adjusted to exclude interest expense related to liabilities for transfers not considered sales and include the net interest expense component resulting from our hedging activities, which is currently included in net results from derivative transactions on our consolidated statements of income. See “—Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for our definition of cost of funds and a reconciliation to interest expense.
 

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Interest spreads
 
As of March 31, 2018, the weighted average yield on our mortgage loan receivables was 7.2%, compared to 6.6% as of March 31, 2017 as balance sheet first mortgage loans comprised a greater portion of the total loans on our balance sheet on March 31, 2018 than March 31, 2017. As of March 31, 2018, the weighted average interest rate on borrowings against our mortgage loan receivables was 3.3%, compared to 2.4% as of March 31, 2017. The increase in the rate on borrowings against our mortgage loan receivables from March 31, 2017 to March 31, 2018 was primarily due to higher prevailing market borrowing rates. As of March 31, 2018, we had outstanding borrowings secured by our mortgage loan receivables equal to 49.3% of the carrying value of our mortgage loan receivables, compared to 41.7% as of March 31, 2017.

As of March 31, 2018, the weighted average yield on our real estate securities was 3.0%, compared to 2.9% as of March 31, 2017. As of March 31, 2018, the weighted average interest rate on borrowings against our real estate securities was 2.0%, compared to 1.4% as of March 31, 2017. The increase in the rate on borrowings against our real estate securities from March 31, 2017 to March 31, 2018 was primarily due to higher prevailing market borrowing rates. As of March 31, 2018, we had outstanding borrowings secured by our real estate securities equal to 83.4% of the carrying value of our real estate securities, compared to 78.8% as of March 31, 2017.
 
Our real estate is comprised of non-interest bearing assets; however, interest incurred on mortgage financing collateralized by such real estate is included in interest expense. As of March 31, 2018, the weighted average interest rate on mortgage borrowings against our real estate was 4.9%, compared to 4.9% as of March 31, 2017. As of March 31, 2018, we had outstanding borrowings secured by our real estate equal to 69.7% of the carrying value of our real estate, compared to 72.4% as of March 31, 2017.
 
Provision for loan losses
 
We had a $3.0 million provision for loan loss expense for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and no provision for loan loss expense for the three months ended March 31, 2017. We originate and invest primarily in loans with high credit quality, and we sell our conduit loans in the ordinary course of business. We estimate our loan loss provision based on our historical loss experience and our expectation of losses inherent in the investment portfolio but not yet realized. To ensure that the risk exposures are properly measured and the appropriate reserves are taken, the Company assesses a loan loss provision balance that will grow over time with its portfolio and the related risk as the assets approach maturity and ultimate refinancing where applicable. As a result, we determined that an increase in our provision expense for loan losses of $0.3 million was required for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

As of March 31, 2018, two of the Company’s loans, which were originated simultaneously as part of a single transaction, and had a carrying value of $26.9 million, were in default. These loans are directly and indirectly secured by the same property and are considered collateral dependent because repayment is expected to be provided solely by the underlying collateral. At the time of the initial loan funding in July 2015, the borrowers faced an uncertain situation as the parent company of the sole tenant of the underlying retail property had just filed for bankruptcy protection. The tenant subsequently vacated the property and the original lease was terminated by the tenant as part of their bankruptcy proceedings. In response to default by the borrowers, the loans were accelerated in March 2016. Subsequently, in August 2016, the borrowers filed for bankruptcy protection. In September 2017, the bankruptcy court approved a replacement lease proposed by the mortgage borrower for the property. That tenant commenced paying rent in September 2017, retroactive to August 2017 as ordered by the bankruptcy court.

The Company placed these loans on non-accrual status in July 2017. In assessing these collateral dependent loans for collectability, the most significant consideration is the fair value of the underlying real estate collateral, which includes an in-place long-dated retail lease. The value of such properties are most significantly affected by the contractual lease payments and the appropriate market discount rates, which are driven by the general interest environment and the retail tenant’s credit worthiness. Through December 31, 2017, the Company believed no loss provision was necessary as the estimated fair value of the property less the cost to sell the same exceeded the combined carrying value of the loans.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, after considering the status of the on-going bankruptcy proceedings, rising interest rates and credit spreads for retail lease properties, the Company recorded a provision for loss on these loans of $2.7 million. The Company continues to pursue all of its legal remedies on these loans.


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Operating lease income and tenant recoveries
 
Operating lease income totaled $24.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $19.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase of $5.0 million was attributable to acquisitions, which increased real estate assets to $1.0 billion at March 31, 2018 versus $814.4 million at March 31, 2017, as well as a full period of operations of properties acquired in 2017.

Tenant recoveries totaled $3.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase of $2.0 million primarily relates to reimbursement of operating expenses billed in the current quarter.
 
Sales of loans, net
 
We recorded $4.9 million income (loss) from sales of loans, net, which includes all loan sales, whether by securitization, whole loan sales or other means, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $(1.0) million for the three months ended March 31, 2017, an increase of $5.9 million. Income from sales of loans, net also includes unrealized losses on loans related to lower of cost or market adjustments. In the three months ended March 31, 2018, we participated in two securitization transactions, transferring 28 loans with an aggregate outstanding principal balance of $436.5 million. In addition, in the three months ended March 31, 2018, we recorded $0.5 million of unrealized losses on loans related to lower of cost or market adjustments. In the three months ended March 31, 2017, we participated in no securitization transactions and recorded $1.0 million of unrealized losses on loans related to lower of cost or market adjustments. Income from sales of loans, net is subject to market conditions impacting timing, size and pricing and as such may vary significantly quarter to quarter. There was $11.9 million income (loss) from sales of securitized loans, net of hedging for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to no income from sales of securitized loans, net of hedging for the three months ended March 31, 2017, due to no securitization activity during that period.

Income (loss) from sale of loans, net, represents gross proceeds received from the sale of loans, less the book value of those loans at the time they were sold, less any costs, such as legal and closing costs, associated with the sale. Income from sales of securitized loans, net, a non-GAAP financial measure, represents the portion of income from sales of loans, net related to the sale of loans into securitization trusts. See “—Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for our definition of income from sale of securitized loans, net of hedging and a reconciliation to income (loss) from sale of loans, net.
 
Realized gain (loss) on securities
 
Realized gain (loss) on securities totaled $(1.1) million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $5.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017, a $6.5 million decrease. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, we sold $126.6 million of securities, comprised of $126.6 million of CMBS and no U.S. Agency Securities. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, we sold $361.3 million of securities, comprised of $361.3 million of CMBS and no U.S. Agency Securities. The decrease reflects lower margin on sale of securities in 2018 as compared to 2017 and due to the increase in interest rates throughout 2017 and 2018.
 

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Unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities represented a gain of $0.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to a gain of $0.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The positive change of $45 thousand in unrealized gain (loss) on Agency interest-only securities was due to the increase in interest rates throughout 2017 and 2018, partially offset by sales and amortization of the portfolio.
 
Income from sales of real estate, net
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2018, income from sales of real estate, net totaled $31.0 million compared to $2.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase of $28.7 million was a result of the commercial real estate and residential condominium sales discussed below.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, we sold no single-tenant net leased properties.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, we sold two diversified commercial real estate properties, resulting in a net gain on sale of $29.4 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 we sold no diversified commercial real estate properties.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, income from sales of residential condominiums totaled $1.6 million. We sold two residential condominium units from Veer Towers in Las Vegas, NV, resulting in a net gain on sale of $1.1 million, and 8 residential condominium units from Terrazas River Park Village in Miami, FL, resulting in a net gain on sale of $0.5 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, income from sales of residential condominiums totaled $2.3 million. We sold 12 residential condominium units from Veer Towers in Las Vegas, NV, resulting in a net gain on sale of $1.9 million, and six residential condominium units from Terrazas River Park Village in Miami, FL, resulting in a net gain on sale of $0.4 million.
 
Fee and other income

Fee and other income totaled $6.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $4.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. We generate fee and other income from origination fees, exit fees and other fees on the loans we originate and in which we invest, HOA fees, unrealized gains (losses) on our investment in mutual fund and dividend income on our investment in FHLB stock. The $1.8 million increase in fee and other income year-over-year was primarily due to a increase in exit fees, partially offset by a decrease in HOA fee income.

Net result from derivative transactions
 
Net result from derivative transactions represented a gain of $15.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, which was comprised of an unrealized gain of $1.8 million and a realized gain of $13.2 million, compared to a loss of $2.0 million which was comprised of an unrealized loss of $5.7 million and a realized gain of $3.7 million, for the three months ended March 31, 2017, a positive change of $17.0 million. The derivative positions that generated these results were a combination of futures, interest rate swaps, and credit derivatives that we employed in an effort to hedge the interest rate risk on the financing of our fixed rate assets and the net interest income we earn against the impact of changes in interest rates. The gain in 2018 was primarily related to the movement in interest rates during the three months ended March 31, 2018. The total net result from derivative transactions is composed of hedging interest expense, realized gains/losses related to hedge terminations and unrealized gains/losses related to changes in the fair value of asset hedges. The hedge positions were related to fixed rate conduit loans and securities investments.
 
Earnings (loss) from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures
 
Total earnings (loss) from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures totaled $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $(0.1) million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Earnings from our investment in Grace Lake JV totaled $0.3 million and $0.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Earnings (loss) from our investment in 24 Second Avenue totaled $(0.2) million and $(0.3) million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The loss is due to a negative return related to upfront sales costs on the investment.


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Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt totaled $(0.1) million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company retired $5.9 million of principal of the CLO Debt, via the purchase of related CLO securities, for a repurchase price of $6.0 million, recognizing a $0.1 million net loss on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $0.1 million of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company retired $6.1 million of principal of the 2017 Notes for a repurchase price of $6.2 million, recognizing a $0.1 million net loss on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $22,847 of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt.

Salaries and employee benefits
 
Salaries and employee benefits totaled $17.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $16.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Salaries and employee benefits are comprised primarily of salaries, bonuses, equity based compensation and other employee benefits. The increase of $1.1 million in compensation expense was attributable to an increase in bonus expense, partially offset by a decrease in equity based compensation expense.
 
Operating expenses
 
Operating expenses totaled $5.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and, compared to $5.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Operating expenses are primarily comprised of professional fees, lease expense, and technology expenses. The increase of $0.1 million was primarily related to an increase in professional fees and administrative expenses, partially offset by a decrease in information technology costs.
 
Real estate operating expenses
 
Real estate operating expenses totaled $8.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $7.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase of $1.3 million in real estate operating expenses was in part due to the additional expenses related to real estate acquisitions in 2017 and 2018, partially offset by decreased operating expenses related to the smaller inventory of condominium properties.
 
Fee expense
 
Fee expense totaled $0.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $0.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Fee expense is comprised primarily of custodian fees, financing costs and servicing fees related to loans. The increase of $0.1 million in fee expense was primarily attributable to the increase in the balance of our mortgage loan receivables held for investment, net, at amortized cost at March 31, 2018, as compared to March 31, 2017.
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
Depreciation and amortization totaled $10.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $8.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The $2.2 million increase in depreciation and amortization is primarily attributable to acquisitions, which increased real estate assets to $1.0 billion at March 31, 2018 versus $814.4 million at March 31, 2017, as well as a full period of depreciation and amortization related to properties acquired in 2017.
 
Income tax (benefit) expense
 
Most of our consolidated income tax provision related to the business units held in our TRSs. Income tax expense (benefit) totaled $3.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $(1.4) million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase of $5.3 million is primarily attributable to the increased income in our TRSs and certain other one-time adjustments.


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Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Our financing strategies are critical to the success and growth of our business. We manage our financing to complement our asset composition and to diversify our exposure across multiple capital markets and counterparties.
 
We require substantial amounts of capital to support our business. The management team, in consultation with our board of directors, establishes our overall liquidity and capital allocation strategies. A key objective of those strategies is to support the execution of our business strategy while maintaining sufficient ongoing liquidity throughout the business cycle to service our financial obligations as they become due. When making funding and capital allocation decisions, members of our senior management consider business performance; the availability of, and costs and benefits associated with, different funding sources; current and expected capital markets and general economic conditions; our balance sheet and capital structure; and our targeted liquidity profile and risks relating to our funding needs.

To ensure that Ladder Capital can effectively address the funding needs of the Company on a timely basis, we maintain a diverse array of liquidity sources including (1) cash and cash equivalents; (2) cash generated from operations; (3) borrowings under repurchase agreements; (4) principal repayments on investments including mortgage loans and securities; (5) proceeds from the issuance of CLO Debt; (6) borrowings under our revolving credit facility; (7) proceeds from securitizations and sales of loans; (8) proceeds from the sale of securities; (9) proceeds from the sale of real estate; (10) proceeds from the issuance of the Notes; and (11) proceeds from the issuance of equity capital. We use these funding sources to meet our obligations on a timely basis.

Our primary uses of liquidity are for (1) the funding of loan and real estate-related investments; (2) the repayment of short-term and long-term borrowings and related interest; (3) the funding of our operating expenses; and (4) distributions to our equity investors to comply with the REIT distribution requirements and the terms of LCFH’s LLLP Agreement. We require short-term liquidity to fund loans that we originate and hold on our consolidated balance sheet pending sale, including through whole loan sale, participation, or securitization. We generally require longer-term funding to finance the loans and real estate-related investments that we hold for investment. We have historically used the aforementioned funding sources to meet the operating and investment needs as they have arisen and have been able to do so by applying a rigorous approach to long and short-term cash and debt forecasting.

In addition, as a REIT, we are also required to make sufficient dividend payments to our shareholders (and equivalent distributions to the Continuing LCFH Limited Partners) in amounts at least sufficient to maintain out REIT status. Under IRS guidance, we may elect to pay a portion of our dividends in stock, subject to a cash/stock election by our shareholders, to optimize our level of capital retention. Accordingly, our cash requirement to pay dividends to maintain REIT status could be substantially reduced at the discretion of the board.
 
A summary of our financial obligations is provided below in our Contractual Obligations table. All our existing financial obligations due within the following year are either extendable for one or more additional years at our discretion or are incurred in the normal course of business (i.e., interest payments/loan funding obligations).
 
We generally seek to maintain an adjusted leverage ratio of approximately 3.0:1.0 or below. See “—Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for our definition of adjusted leverage and a reconciliation to debt obligations, net. This ratio typically fluctuates during the course of a fiscal year due to the normal course of business in our conduit lending operations, in which we generally securitize our inventory of loans at intervals, and also because of changes in our asset mix, due in part to such securitizations. We generally seek to match fund our assets according to their liquidity characteristics and expected hold period. We believe that the defensive positioning of our predominantly senior secured assets and our financing strategy has allowed us to maintain financial flexibility to capitalize on an attractive range of market opportunities as they have arisen.
 

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We and our subsidiaries may incur substantial additional debt in the future. However, we are subject to certain restrictions on our ability to incur additional debt in the indentures governing the Notes (the “Indentures”) and our other debt agreements. Under the Indentures, we may not incur certain types of indebtedness unless our consolidated non-funding debt to equity ratio (as defined in the Indentures) is less than or equal to 1.75 to 1.00 or if the unencumbered assets of the Company and its subsidiaries is less than 120% of their unsecured indebtedness, although our subsidiaries are permitted to incur indebtedness where recourse is limited to the assets and/or the general credit of such subsidiary. Our borrowings under certain financing agreements and our committed loan facilities are subject to maximum consolidated leverage ratio limits (currently ranging from 3.50 to 1.00 to 4.00 to 1.00), including maximum consolidated leverage ratio limits weighted by asset composition that change based on our asset base at the time of determination, and, in the case of one provider, a minimum interest coverage ratio requirement of 1.50 to 1.00 if certain liquidity thresholds are not satisfied. These restrictions, which would permit us to incur substantial additional debt, are subject to significant qualifications and exceptions.
 
Our principal debt financing sources include: (1) committed secured funding provided by banks, (2) uncommitted secured funding sources, including asset repurchase agreements with a number of banks, (3) long term non-recourse mortgage financing, (4) long term senior unsecured notes in the form of corporate bonds and (5) borrowings on both a short- and long-term committed basis, made by Tuebor from the FHLB.
 
As of March 31, 2018, we had unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $68.4 million, unencumbered loans of $1.0 billion, unencumbered securities of $29.3 million, unencumbered real estate of $96.5 million and $248.1 million of other assets not secured by any portion of secured indebtedness.
 
To maintain our qualification as a REIT under the Code, we were required to distribute our accumulated earnings and profits attributable to taxable periods ending prior to January 1, 2015 and we must annually distribute at least 90% of our taxable income. Consistent with the terms of an IRS private letter ruling, we paid our fourth quarter 2016 and 2015 dividends in a combination of cash and stock and may pay future distributions in such a manner; however, the REIT distribution requirements limit our ability to retain earnings and thereby replenish or increase capital for operations. We believe that our significant capital resources and access to financing will provide us with financial flexibility at levels sufficient to meet current and anticipated capital requirements, including funding new investment opportunities, paying distributions to our shareholders and servicing our debt obligations.

Our captive insurance company subsidiary, Tuebor, is subject to state regulations which require that dividends may only be made with regulatory approval. Largely as a result of this restriction, $1.3 billion of Tuebor’s member’s capital was restricted from transfer via dividend to Tuebor’s parent without prior approval of state insurance regulators at March 31, 2018. To facilitate intercompany cash funding of operations and investments, Tuebor and its parent maintain regulator-approved intercompany borrowing/lending agreements.

The Company established a broker-dealer subsidiary, Ladder Capital Securities LLC (“LCS”), which was initially licensed and capitalized to do business in July 2010. LCS is required to be compliant with Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and SEC regulations, which require that dividends may only be made with regulatory approval. Largely as a result of this restriction, $4.8 million of LCS’s member’s capital was restricted from transfer to LCS’s parent without prior approval of regulators at March 31, 2018.
 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
 
We held unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $68.4 million and $76.7 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. We held restricted cash of $44.8 million and $106.0 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. We elected to early adopt ASU 2016-18 effective January 1, 2017. ASU 2016-18 requires the inclusion of restricted cash with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-the-period and end-of-period total amounts show on the statement of cash flows. We held cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash of $113.2 million and $182.7 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.
 
Cash generated from (used in) operations
 
Our operating activities were a net provider (user) of cash of $(65.1) million and $(243.2) million during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Cash from operations includes the origination of loans held for sale, net of the proceeds from sale of loans and gains from sales of loans, which was the predominant driver of the $178.1 million increase in cash generated from operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2017.

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Borrowings under various financing arrangements
 
Our financing strategies are critical to the success and growth of our business. We manage our leverage policies to complement our asset composition and to diversify our exposure across multiple counterparties. Our borrowings under various financing arrangements as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 are set forth in the table below ($ in thousands):

 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
Committed loan repurchase facilities
$
550,523

 
$
398,653

Committed securities repurchase facility
98,762

 
—

Uncommitted securities repurchase facilities
105,092

 
74,757

Total repurchase facilities
754,377

 
473,410

Revolving credit facility
—

 
—

Mortgage loan financing
683,487

 
692,696

CLO debt(1)
683,095

 
688,479

Participation financing - mortgage loan receivable
2,815

 
3,107

Borrowings from the FHLB
1,348,000

 
1,370,000

Senior unsecured notes(2)
1,152,834

 
1,152,134

Total debt obligations
$
4,624,608

 
$
4,379,826

 
(1)
Presented net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $5.4 million and $6.0 million as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.
(2)
Presented net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $13.4 million and $14.1 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

The Company’s repurchase facilities include covenants covering minimum net worth requirements (ranging from $300.0 million to $780.0 million), maximum reductions in net worth over stated time periods, minimum liquidity levels (typically $30.0 million of cash or a higher standard that often allows for the inclusion of different percentages of liquid securities in the determination of compliance with the requirement), maximum leverage ratios (calculated in various ways based on specified definitions of indebtedness and net worth) and a fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.25x, and, in the instance of one lender, an interest coverage ratio of 1.50x, in each case, if certain liquidity thresholds are not satisfied. We were in compliance with all covenants as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. Further, certain of our financing arrangements and loans on our real property are secured by the assets of the Company, including pledges of the equity of certain subsidiaries or the assets of certain subsidiaries. From time to time, certain of these financing arrangements and loans may prohibit certain of our subsidiaries from paying dividends to the Company, from making distributions on such subsidiary’s capital stock, from repaying to the Company any loans or advances to such subsidiary from the Company or from transferring any of such subsidiary’s property or other assets to the Company or other subsidiaries of the Company.
 
Committed loan facilities
 
We are parties to multiple committed loan repurchase agreement facilities, totaling $1.7 billion of credit capacity. As of March 31, 2018, the Company had $550.5 million of borrowings outstanding, with an additional $1.1 billion of committed financing available. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had $398.7 million of borrowings outstanding, with an additional $1.3 billion of committed financing available. Assets pledged as collateral under these facilities are generally limited to whole mortgage loans collateralized by first liens on commercial real estate. Our repurchase facilities include covenants covering net worth requirements, minimum liquidity levels, and maximum debt/equity ratios. We believe we were in compliance with all covenants as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
 

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We have the option to extend some of our existing facilities subject to a number of customary conditions. The lenders have sole discretion with respect to the inclusion of collateral in these facilities, to determine the market value of the collateral on a daily basis, and, if the estimated market value of the included collateral declines, the lenders have the right to require additional collateral or a full and/or partial repayment of the facilities (margin call), sufficient to rebalance the facilities. Typically, the facilities are established with stated guidelines regarding the maximum percentage of the collateral asset’s market value that can be borrowed. We often borrow at a lower percentage of the collateral asset’s value than the maximum leaving us with excess borrowing capacity that can be drawn upon at a later date and/or applied against future margin calls so that they can be satisfied on a cashless basis.
 
Committed securities facility
 
We are a party to a term master repurchase agreement with a major U.S. banking institution for CMBS, totaling $400.0 million of credit capacity. As we do in the case of borrowings under committed loan facilities, we often borrow at a lower percentage of the collateral asset’s value than the maximum leaving us with excess borrowing capacity that can be drawn upon a later date and/or applied against future margin calls so that they can be satisfied on a cashless basis. As of March 31, 2018, the Company had $98.8 million borrowings outstanding, with an additional $301.2 million of committed financing available. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had no borrowings outstanding, with an additional $400.0 million of committed financing available.
 
Uncommitted securities facilities
 
We are party to multiple master repurchase agreements with several counterparties to finance our investments in CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities. The securities that served as collateral for these borrowings are highly liquid and marketable assets that are typically of relatively short duration. As we do in the case of other secured borrowings, we often borrow at a lower percentage of the collateral asset’s value than the maximum leaving us with excess borrowing capacity that can be drawn upon a later date and/or applied against future margin calls so that they can be satisfied on a cashless basis.

Collateralized borrowings under repurchase agreement
 
The following table presents the amount of collateralized borrowings outstanding as of the end of each quarter, the average amount of collateralized borrowings outstanding during the quarter and the monthly maximum amount of collateralized borrowings outstanding during the quarter ($ in thousands):

 
 
Total
 
Collateralized Borrowings Under Repurchase Agreements (1)
 
Other Collateralized Borrowings (2)
Quarter Ended
 
Quarter-end balance
 
Average quarterly balance
 
Maximum balance of any month-end
 
Quarter-end balance
 
Average quarterly balance
 
Maximum balance of any month-end
 
Quarter-end balance
 
Average quarterly balance
 
Maximum balance of any month-end
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2015
 
1,456,163

 
1,481,913

 
1,506,723

 
1,409,413

 
1,427,496

 
1,447,973

 
46,750

 
54,417

 
58,750

June 30, 2015
 
1,178,130

 
1,308,066

 
1,492,066

 
1,056,380

 
1,216,316

 
1,370,316

 
121,750

 
91,750

 
121,750

September 30, 2015
 
1,241,326

 
1,420,356

 
1,653,179

 
1,191,326

 
1,347,523

 
1,556,429

 
50,000

 
72,833

 
96,750

December 31, 2015
 
1,260,755

 
1,296,608

 
1,344,330

 
1,260,755

 
1,283,008

 
1,323,930

 
—

 
13,600

 
20,400

March 31, 2016
 
1,104,339

 
1,162,008

 
1,240,778

 
1,104,339

 
1,162,008

 
1,240,778

 
—

 
—

 
—

June 30, 2016
 
1,139,615

 
1,108,263

 
1,139,615

 
1,139,615

 
1,108,263

 
1,139,615

 
—

 
—

 
—

September 30, 2016
 
1,458,327

 
1,393,122

 
1,468,013

 
1,458,327

 
1,393,122

 
1,468,013

 
—

 
—

 
—

December 31, 2016
 
1,107,185

 
1,397,061

 
1,555,941

 
1,107,185

 
1,397,061

 
1,555,941

 
—

 
—

 
—

March 31, 2017
 
1,039,356

 
1,073,893

 
1,119,863

 
1,039,356

 
1,073,893

 
1,119,863

 
—

 
—

 
—

June 30, 2017
 
1,149,605

 
1,264,948

 
1,373,953

 
1,149,605

 
1,264,948

 
1,373,953

 
—

 
—

 
—

September 30, 2017
 
913,137

 
1,126,201

 
1,301,334

 
913,137

 
1,126,201

 
1,301,334

 
—

 
—

 
—

December 31, 2017
 
473,410

 
739,721

 
892,081

 
473,410

 
739,721

 
892,081

 
—

 
—

 
—

March 31, 2018
 
754,377

 
721,139

 
773,383

 
754,377

 
721,139

 
773,383

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(1)  
Collateralized borrowings under repurchase agreements include all securities and loan financing under repurchase agreements.

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(2)  
Other collateralized borrowings include borrowings under credit agreement and borrowings under credit and security agreement.
 
As of March 31, 2018, we had repurchase agreements with eight counterparties, with total debt obligations outstanding of $0.8 billion. As of March 31, 2018, two counterparties, Deutsche Bank and Wells Fargo, held collateral that exceeded the amounts borrowed under the related repurchase agreements by more than $75.2 million, or 5% of our total equity. As of March 31, 2018, the weighted average haircut, or the percent of collateral value in excess of the loan amount, under our repurchase agreements was 34.6%. There have been no significant fluctuations in haircuts across asset classes on our repurchase facilities.

Revolving Credit Facility
 
On February 11, 2014, the Company entered into a revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”), which was subsequently amended on February 26, 2016, March 1, 2017, March 23, 2017, September 29, 2017 and October 27, 2017, to add additional banks to our syndicate, add two additional one-year extension options and increase its maximum funding capacity. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for an aggregate maximum borrowing amount of $241.4 million, including a $25.0 million sublimit for the issuance of letters of credit. The Revolving Credit Facility is available on a revolving basis to finance the Company’s working capital needs and for general corporate purposes. The Revolving Credit Facility has a maturity date of February 11, 2019, which may be extended by two 12-month periods subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, including the absence of default. Interest on the Revolving Credit Facility is one-month LIBOR plus 3.50% per annum payable monthly in arrears.
 
The obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. The Revolving Credit Facility is secured by a pledge of the shares of (or other ownership or equity interests in) certain subsidiaries to the extent the pledge is not restricted under existing regulations, law or contractual obligations.
 
LCFH is subject to customary affirmative covenants and negative covenants, including limitations on the incurrence of additional debt, liens, restricted payments, sales of assets and affiliate transactions under the Revolving Credit Facility. In addition, under the Revolving Credit Facility, LCFH is required to comply with financial covenants relating to minimum net worth, maximum leverage, minimum liquidity, and minimum fixed charge coverage, consistent with our other credit facilities. Our ability to borrow under the Revolving Credit Facility will be dependent on, among other things, LCFH’s compliance with the financial covenants. The Revolving Credit Facility contains customary events of default, including non-payment of principal or interest, fees or other amounts, failure to perform or observe covenants, cross-default to other indebtedness, the rendering of judgments against the Company or certain of our subsidiaries to pay certain amounts of money and certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency.
 
Mortgage loan financing
 
We generally finance our real estate using long-term non-recourse mortgage financing. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, we executed three term debt agreements to finance real estate. These non-recourse debt agreements are fixed rate financing at rates ranging from 4.25% to 6.75%, maturing between 2020 - 2028 and totaling $683.5 million and $692.7 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. These long-term non-recourse mortgages include net unamortized premiums of $6.3 million and $6.6 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, representing proceeds received upon financing greater than the contractual amounts due under the agreements. The premiums are being amortized over the remaining life of the respective debt instruments using the effective interest method. We recorded $0.3 million and $0.2 million of premium amortization, which decreased interest expense, for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The loans are collateralized by real estate and related lease intangibles, net, of $895.8 million and $911.0 million as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

CLO Debt

The Company completed its inaugural CLO issuances in the two transactions described below. The Company had a total of $683.1 million and $688.5 million of floating rate, non-recourse CLO debt included in debt obligations on its consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. Unamortized debt issuance costs of $5.4 million and $6.0 million are included in CLO Debt as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. As of March 31, 2018, the CLO debt has interest rates of 2.67% to 5.39% (with a weighted average of 3.64%). As of March 31, 2018, collateral for the CLO debt comprised $881.7 million of first mortgage commercial mortgage real estate loans.

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On October 17, 2017, a subsidiary of the Company consummated a securitization of floating-rate commercial mortgage loans through a static CLO structure. Over $456.9 million of balance sheet loans (“Contributed Loans”) were contributed into the CLO. Certain of the Contributed Loans have future funding components that were not contributed to the CLO and that are retained by a subsidiary of the Company in the form of a participation interest or separate note. However, for a limited period of time, to the extent loans in the CLO are repaid, the CLO may acquire portions of the future fundings from the Company’s affiliate. An affiliate of the Company retained an approximately 18.5% interest in the CLO by retaining the most subordinate classes of notes issued by the CLO, retains control over major decisions made with respect to the administration of the Contributed Loans and appoints the special servicer under the CLO. The CLO is a VIE and the Company is the primary beneficiary and, therefore, consolidates the VIE.

On December 21, 2017, a subsidiary of the Company consummated a securitization of fixed and floating-rate commercial mortgage loans through a static CLO structure. Over $431.5 million of Contributed Loans were contributed into the CLO. Certain of the Contributed Loans have future funding components that were not contributed to the CLO and that are retained by a subsidiary of the Company in the form of a participation interest or separate note. However, for a limited period of time, to the extent loans in the CLO are repaid, the CLO may acquire portions of the future fundings from the Company’s affiliate. An affiliate of the Company retained an approximately 25% interest in the CLO by retaining the most subordinate classes of notes issued by the CLO, retains control over major decisions made with respect to the administration of the Contributed Loans and appoints the special servicer under the CLO. The CLO is a VIE and the Company is the primary beneficiary and, therefore, consolidates the VIE.

Participation Financing - Mortgage Loan Receivable

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company sold a participating interest in a first mortgage loan receivable to a third party. The sales proceeds of $4.0 million are considered non-recourse secured borrowings and are recognized in debt obligations on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets with $2.8 million outstanding as of March 31, 2018. The Company recorded $0.1 million of interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

FHLB financing
 
On July 11, 2012, Tuebor became a member of the FHLB. As of March 31, 2018, Tuebor had $1.3 billion of borrowings outstanding (with an additional $585.5 million of committed term financing available from the FHLB), with terms of overnight to six years, interest rates of 0.87% to 2.74%, and advance rates of 52.0% to 95.2% of the collateral. As of March 31, 2018, collateral for the borrowings was comprised of $837.2 million of CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities and $990.1 million of first mortgage commercial real estate loans. The weighted-average borrowings outstanding were $1.4 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2018. On December 6, 2017, Tuebor’s advance limit was updated by the FHLB to the lowest of a Set Dollar Limit (currently $2.0 billion), 40% of Tuebor’s total assets or 150% of the Company’s total equity. Beginning April 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020, the Set Dollar Limit will be $1.5 billion. Beginning January 1, 2021 through February 19, 2021, the Set Dollar Limit will be $750.0 million. Tuebor is well-positioned to meet its obligations and pay down its advances in accordance with the scheduled reduction in the Set Dollar Limit, which remains subject to revision by the FHLB or as a result of any future changes in applicable regulations.

As of December 31, 2017, Tuebor had $1.4 billion of borrowings outstanding (with an additional $630.0 million of committed term financing available from the FHLB), with terms of overnight to six years, interest rates of 0.87% to 2.74%, and advance rates of 49.6% to 100% of the collateral. As of December 31, 2017, collateral for the borrowings was comprised of $861.7 million of CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities and $915.9 million of first mortgage commercial real estate loans. The weighted-average borrowings outstanding were $1.4 billion for the three months ended December 31, 2017.

Effective February 19, 2016, the FHFA, regulator of the FHLB, adopted a final rule amending its regulation regarding the eligibility of captive insurance companies for FHLB membership.
Pursuant to the final rule, Tuebor may remain a member of the FHLB through February 19, 2021 (the “Transition Period”). During the Transition Period, Tuebor is eligible to continue to draw new additional advances, extend the maturities of existing advances, and pay off outstanding advances on the same terms as non-captive insurance company FHLB members with the following two exceptions:
1.
New advances (including any existing advances that are extended during the Transition Period) will have maturity dates on or before February 19, 2021; and

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2.
The FHLB will make new advances to Tuebor subject to a requirement that Tuebor’s total outstanding advances do not exceed 40% of Tuebor’s total assets. As of March 31, 2018, the Company is in compliance with this requirement.

Tuebor has executed new advances since the effective date of the new rule in the ordinary course of business.

FHLB advances amounted to 29.1% of the Company’s outstanding debt obligations as of March 31, 2018. The Company does not anticipate that the FHFA’s final regulation will materially impact its operations as it will continue to access FHLB advances during the five-year Transition Period and it has multiple, diverse funding sources for financing its portfolio in the future. In the latter stages of the five-year Transition Period, the Company expects to adjust its financing activities by gradually making greater use of alternative sources of funding of types currently used by the Company including secured and unsecured borrowings from banks and other counterparties, the issuance of corporate bonds and equity, and the securitization or sale of assets. Future moves to alternative funding sources could result in higher or lower advance rates from secured funding sources but also the incurrence of higher funding and operating costs than would have been incurred had FHLB funding continued to be available. In addition, the Company may find it more difficult to obtain committed secured funding for multiple year terms as it has been able to obtain from the FHLB.

The Transition Period allows time for events to occur that may impact Tuebor’s long-term membership in the FHLB, including further regulatory changes, the enactment of legislation, or the filing of litigation challenging the validity of the final rule. During this period, a combination of these external events and/or Tuebor’s own actions could result in the emergence of feasible alternative approaches for it to retain its FHLB membership.
 
There is no assurance that the FHFA or the FHLB will not take actions that could adversely impact Tuebor’s membership in the FHLB and continuing access to new or existing advances prior to February 19, 2021.

Tuebor is subject to state regulations which require that dividends (including dividends to the Company as its parent) may only be made with regulatory approval. However, there can be no assurance that we would obtain such approval if sought. Largely as a result of this restriction, $1.3 billion of the member’s capital was restricted from transfer via dividend to Tuebor’s parent without prior approval of state insurance regulators at March 31, 2018. To facilitate intercompany cash funding of operations and investments, Tuebor and its parent maintain regulator-approved intercompany borrowing/lending agreements.

Senior Unsecured Notes
LCFH issued the 2025 Notes, the 2022 Notes, the 2021 Notes and the 2017 Notes (each as defined below, and collectively, the “Notes”) with Ladder Capital Finance Corporation (“LCFC”), as co-issuers on a joint and several basis. LCFC is a 100% owned finance subsidiary of Series TRS of LCFH with no assets, operations, revenues or cash flows other than those related to the issuance, administration and repayment of the Notes. The Company and certain subsidiaries of LCFH currently guarantee the obligations under the Notes and the indenture. The Company is the general partner of LCFH and, through LCFH and its subsidiaries, operates the Ladder Capital business. As of March 31, 2018, the Company has a 88.0% economic and voting interest in LCFH and controls the management of LCFH as a result of its ability to appoint board members. Accordingly, the Company consolidates the financial results of LCFH and records noncontrolling interest for the economic interest in LCFH held by the Continuing LCFH Limited Partners. In addition, the Company, through certain subsidiaries which are treated as TRSs, is indirectly subject to U.S. federal, state and local income taxes. Other than the noncontrolling interest in the Operating Partnership and federal, state and local income taxes, there are no material differences between the Company’s consolidated financial statements and LCFH’s consolidated financial statements. Unamortized debt issuance costs of $13.4 million and $14.1 million are included in senior unsecured notes as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

2017 Notes

On September 19, 2012, LCFH issued $325.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.375% senior notes due October 1, 2017 (the “2017 Notes”). The 2017 Notes require interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on September 19, 2012. The 2017 Notes were unsecured and subject to incurrence-based covenants, including limitations on the incurrence of additional debt, restricted payments, liens, sales of assets, affiliate transactions and other covenants typical for financings of this type. At any time on or after April 1, 2017, the 2017 Notes were redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, without penalty. On November 5, 2014, the board of directors authorized the Company to make up to $325.0 million in repurchases of the 2017 Notes from time to time without further approval.


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On December 17, 2014, the Company retired $5.4 million of principal of the 2017 Notes for a repurchase price of $5.6 million recognizing a $0.2 million loss on extinguishment of debt. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company retired $21.9 million of principal of the 2017 Notes for a repurchase price of $21.4 million, recognizing a $0.3 million net gain on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $(0.2) million of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt.

On March 1, 2017, the Company delivered a notice of conditional full redemption to holders of the 2017 Notes, pursuant to which the Company redeemed all outstanding 2017 Notes at 100% of the principal amount thereof (plus any accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date) as of April 1, 2017. The redemption was conditioned on the completion by the Company of a senior notes offering with gross proceeds of not less than $500 million. The Company’s offering of the 2022 Notes, described below, satisfied this condition. On April 3, 2017, the Company retired the remaining $297.7 million of principal of the 2017 Notes for a repurchase price of $297.7 million, recognizing a $53,547 net loss on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $(22,847) of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt.

2021 Notes

On August 1, 2014, LCFH issued $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.875% senior notes due August 1, 2021 (the “2021 Notes”). The 2021 Notes require interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning on February 1, 2015. The 2021 Notes will mature on August 1, 2021. The 2021 Notes are unsecured and are subject to incurrence-based covenants, including limitations on the incurrence of additional debt, restricted payments, liens, sales of assets, affiliate transactions and other covenants typical for financings of this type. At any time on or after August 1, 2020, the 2021 Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, without penalty. On February 24, 2016, the board of directors authorized the Company to make up to $100.0 million in repurchases of the 2021 Notes from time to time without further approval.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company retired $33.8 million of principal of the 2021 Notes for a repurchase price of $28.2 million, recognizing a $5.1 million net gain on extinguishment of debt after recognizing $(0.4) million of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the retired debt. As of March 31, 2018, the remaining $266.2 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Notes is due August 1, 2021.

2022 Notes

On March 16, 2017, LCFH issued $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.250% senior notes due March 15, 2022 (the “2022 Notes”). The 2022 Notes require interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, beginning on September 15, 2017. The 2022 Notes will mature on March 15, 2022. The 2022 Notes are unsecured and are subject to an unencumbered assets to unsecured debt covenant. At any time on or after September 15, 2021, the 2022 Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 15 nor more than 60 days’ notice, without penalty.

2025 Notes

On September 25, 2017, LCFH issued $400.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.250% senior notes due October 1, 2025 (the “2025 Notes”). The 2025 Notes require interest payments semi-annually in cash in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on April 1, 2018. The 2025 Notes will mature on October 1, 2025. The 2025 Notes are unsecured and are subject to an unencumbered assets to unsecured debt covenant. The Company may redeem the 2025 Notes, in whole, at any time, or from time to time, prior to their stated maturity. The 2025 Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, upon not less than 15 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes plus the Applicable Premium (as defined in the indenture governing the 2025 Notes) as of, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

Stock Repurchases

On October 30, 2014, the board of directors authorized the Company to make up to $50.0 million in repurchases of the Company’s Class A common stock from time to time without further approval. Stock repurchases by the Company are generally made for cash in open market transactions at prevailing market prices but may also be made in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The timing and amount of purchases are determined based upon prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. As of March 31, 2018, the Company has a remaining amount available for repurchase of $41.8 million, which represents 2.8% in the aggregate of its outstanding Class A common stock, based on the closing price of $15.08 per share on such date.

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The following table is a summary of the Company’s repurchase activity of its Class A common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):

 
 
Shares
 
Amount(1)
 
 
 
 
 
Authorizations remaining as of December 31, 2017
 
 
 
$
41,769

Additional authorizations
 
 
 
—

Repurchases paid
 
—

 
—

Repurchases unsettled
 
 
 
—

Authorizations remaining as of March 31, 2018
 
 
 
$
41,769

 
(1)         Amount excludes commissions paid associated with share repurchases.
 
 
Shares
 
Amount(1)
 
 
 
 
 
Authorizations remaining as of December 31, 2016
 
 
 
$
44,353

Additional authorizations
 
 
 
—

Repurchases paid
 
—

 
—

Repurchases unsettled
 
 
 
—

Authorizations remaining as of March 31, 2017
 
 
 
$
44,353

 
(1)         Amount excludes commissions paid associated with share repurchases.

Dividends

To maintain our qualification as a REIT under the Code, we must annually distribute at least 90% of our taxable income and, for 2015, we had to distribute our undistributed accumulated earnings and profits attributable to taxable periods prior to January 1, 2015 (the “E&P Distribution”). The Company made the E&P Distribution on January 21, 2016 and has paid and in the future intend to declare regular quarterly distributions to our shareholders in an amount approximating our net taxable income.

Consistent with IRS guidance we may, subject to a cash/stock election by our shareholders, pay a portion of our dividends in stock, to provide for meaningful capital retention; however, the REIT distribution requirements limit our ability to retain earnings and thereby replenish or increase capital for operations. The timing and amount of future distributions is based on a number of factors, including, among other things, our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition and contractual restrictions. All dividend declarations are subject to the approval of our board of directors. Generally, we expect the distributions to be taxable as ordinary dividends to our shareholders, whether paid in cash or a combination of cash and common stock, and not as a tax-free return of capital or a capital gain. We believe that our significant capital resources and access to financing will provide the financial flexibility at levels sufficient to meet current and anticipated capital requirements, including funding new investment opportunities, paying distributions to our shareholders and servicing our debt obligations.


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The following table presents dividends declared (on a per share basis) of Class A common stock for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

Declaration Date
 
Dividend per Share
 
 
 
February 27, 2018
 
$
0.315

Total
 
$
0.315

 
 
 
March 1, 2017
 
$
0.300

Total
 
$
0.300


Principal repayments on investments
 
We receive principal amortization on our loans and securities as part of the normal course of our business. Repayment of mortgage loan receivables provided net cash of $194.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and $68.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Repayment of real estate securities provided net cash of $3.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and $74.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017.
 
Proceeds from securitizations and sales of loans
 
We sell our conduit mortgage loans to securitization trusts and to other third parties as part of our normal course of business. There were $439.3 million of proceeds from sales of mortgage loans for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and no sales of mortgage loans for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Proceeds from the sale of securities
 
We invest in CMBS and U.S. Agency Securities. Proceeds from sales of securities provided net cash of $122.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and $361.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017.
 
Proceeds from the sale of real estate
 
We own a portfolio of commercial real estate properties as well as residential condominium units. Proceeds from sales of real estate provided net cash of $86.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and $6.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017.
 
Proceeds from the issuance of equity
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, there were no proceeds realized in connection with the issuance of equity. We may issue additional equity in the future.
 
Other potential sources of financing
 
In the future, we may also use other sources of financing to fund the acquisition of our assets, including credit facilities, warehouse facilities, repurchase facilities and other secured and unsecured forms of borrowing. These financings may be collateralized or non-collateralized, may involve one or more lenders and may accrue interest at either fixed or floating rates. We may also seek to raise further equity capital or issue debt securities in order to fund our future investments.
 

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Contractual obligations
 
Contractual obligations as of March 31, 2018 were as follows ($ in thousands):
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Less than 1 Year
 
1-3 Years
 
3-5 Years
 
More than 5 Years
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Secured financings
$
1,163,053

(1)
$
1,067,616

 
$
410,056

 
$
830,115

 
$
3,470,840

Senior unsecured notes
—

 
—

 
766,201

 
400,000

 
1,166,201

Interest payable(2)
146,109

 
205,926

 
58,385

 
63,332

 
473,752

Other funding obligations(3)
213,578

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
213,578

Payments pursuant to tax receivable agreement
105

 
209

 
209

 
1,047

 
1,570

Operating lease obligations
892

 
2,360

 
1,279

 
—

 
4,531

Total
$
1,523,737

 
$
1,276,111

 
$
1,236,130

 
$
1,294,494

 
$
5,330,472

 
(1)          As more fully disclosed in Note 8, Debt Obligations, Net, these obligations are subject to existing Company controlled extension options for one or more additional one-year periods or could be refinanced by other existing facilities.
(2)          Composed of interest on secured financings and on senior unsecured notes. For borrowings with variable interest rates, we used the rates in effect as of March 31, 2018 to determine the future interest payment obligations.
(3)          Comprised of our off-balance sheet unfunded commitment to provide additional first mortgage loan financing as of March 31, 2018.

The tables above do not include amounts due under our derivative agreements as those contracts do not have fixed and determinable payments. Our contractual obligations will be refinanced and/or repaid from earnings as well as amortization and sales of our liquid collateral.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have made investments in various unconsolidated joint ventures. See Note 7, Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures for further details of our unconsolidated investments. Our maximum exposure to loss from these investments is limited to the carrying value of our investments.

Unfunded Loan Commitments
 
We may be a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financial needs of our borrowers. As of March 31, 2018, our off-balance sheet arrangements consisted of $213.6 million of unfunded commitments of mortgage loan receivables held for investment, all of which was to provide additional first mortgage loan financing. As of December 31, 2017, our off-balance sheet arrangements consisted of $157.0 million of unfunded commitments of mortgage loan receivables held for investment, all of which was to provide additional first mortgage loan financing. Such commitments are subject to our borrowers’ satisfaction of certain financial and nonfinancial covenants and involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are not reflected on our consolidated balance sheets.
 
Critical Accounting Policies

See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Estimates” within the Annual Report for a full discussion of our critical accounting policies. Other than disclosed in Note 2, Significant Accounting Policies, our critical accounting policies have not materially changed since December 31, 2017.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Our recently adopted accounting pronouncements and recent accounting pronouncements are described in Item 1—“Financial Statements—Note 2.”


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Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
 
Core Earnings
 
We present Core Earnings, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, as a supplemental measure of our performance. We believe Core Earnings assists investors in comparing our performance across reporting periods on a consistent basis by excluding non-cash expenses and unrecognized results from derivatives and Agency interest-only securities, which we believe makes comparisons across reporting periods more relevant by eliminating timing differences related to changes in the values of assets and derivatives. In addition, we use Core Earnings: (i) to evaluate our earnings from operations and (ii) because management believes that it may be a useful performance measure for us. Core Earnings is also used as a factor in determining the annual incentive compensation of our senior managers and other employees.

We consider the Class A common shareholders of the Company and Continuing LCFH Limited Partners to have fundamentally equivalent interests in our pre-tax earnings. Accordingly, for purposes of computing Core Earnings we start with pre-tax earnings and adjust for other noncontrolling interest in consolidated joint ventures but we do not adjust for amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest held by Continuing LCFH Limited Partners.
 
We define Core Earnings as income before taxes adjusted for: (i) real estate depreciation and amortization; (ii) the impact of derivative gains and losses related to the hedging of assets on our balance sheet as of the end of the specified accounting period; (iii) unrealized gains/(losses) related to our investments in Agency interest-only securities; (iv) Economic Gains on Securitization transactions not recognized under GAAP accounting for which risk has substantially transferred during the period and the exclusion of resultant GAAP recognition of the related economics during the subsequent periods; (v) non-cash stock-based compensation; and (vi) certain one-time transactional items. As more fully described in Notes 2, 4 and 20, in the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company changed its method of accounting for transfers of financial assets subject to certain transfer restrictions on the Third Party Purchasers of risk retention securities in securitizations imposed by the Dodd-Frank Act. Because such transactions are now treated as sales for purposes of net income, the Company no longer makes an adjustment to net income for purposes of core earnings. The Company reflected this change in accounting principle retrospectively to prior interim periods within 2017.

For Core Earnings, we include adjustments for Economic Gains on Securitization transactions not recognized under GAAP accounting for which risk has substantially transferred during the period and exclusion of resultant GAAP recognition of the related economics during the subsequent periods. This adjustment is reflected in Core Earnings when there is a true risk transfer on the mortgage loan transfer and settlement. Historically, this has represented the impact of economic gains on (discounts) on intercompany loans secured by our own real estate which we had not previously recognized because such gains were eliminated in consolidation. Conversely, if the economic risk was not substantially transferred, no adjustments to net income would be made relating to those transactions for Core Earnings purposes. Management believes recognizing these amounts for Core Earnings purposes in the period of transfer of economic risk is a reasonable supplemental measure of our performance.

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report, we do not designate derivatives as hedges to qualify for hedge accounting and therefore any net payments under, or fluctuations in the fair value of, our derivatives are recognized currently in our income statement. However, fluctuations in the fair value of the related assets are not included in our income statement. We consider the gain or loss on our hedging positions related to assets that we still own as of the reporting date to be “open hedging positions.” While recognized for GAAP purposes, we exclude the results on the hedges from Core Earnings until the related asset is sold and the hedge position is considered “closed,” whereupon they would then be included in Core Earnings in that period. These are reflected as “Adjustments for unrecognized derivative results” for purposes of computing Core Earnings for the period. We believe that excluding these specifically identified gains and losses associated with the open hedging positions adjusts for timing differences between when we recognize changes in the fair values of our assets and changes in the fair value of the derivatives used to hedge such assets.
 
As more fully discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report, our investments in Agency interest-only securities are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings. We believe that excluding these specifically identified gains and losses associated with the Agency interest-only securities adjusts for timing differences between when we recognize changes in the fair values of our assets.
 

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Set forth below is a reconciliation of income (loss) before taxes to Core Earnings ($ in thousands):

 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before taxes
$
71,700

 
$
18,255

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in consolidated joint ventures and operating partnership (GAAP) (1)
(8,430
)
 
(330
)
Our share of real estate depreciation, amortization and gain adjustments (2)
6,058

 
7,795

Adjustments for unrecognized derivative results (3)
(8,110
)
 
(1,933
)
Unrealized (gain) loss on Agency IO securities
(204
)
 
(159
)
Adjustment for economic gain on securitization transactions not recognized under GAAP for which risk has been substantially transferred, net of reversal/amortization
(291
)
 
(226
)
Non-cash stock-based compensation
3,083

 
8,149

One-time transactional adjustments
—

 
—

Core Earnings
$
63,806

 
$
31,551

 
(1)
Includes $8 thousand and $8 thousand of net income attributable to noncontrolling interest in consolidated joint ventures which are included in net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest in operating partnership on the consolidated statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.


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(2)
The following is a reconciliation of GAAP depreciation and amortization to our share of real estate depreciation, amortization and gain adjustments presented in the computation of Core Earnings in the preceding table ($ in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total GAAP depreciation and amortization
$
10,823

 
$
8,592

 
Less: Depreciation and amortization related to non-rental property fixed assets
(19
)
 
(23
)
 
Less: Non-controlling interest in consolidated joint ventures’ share of accumulated depreciation and amortization
(358
)
 
(375
)
 
Our share of real estate depreciation and amortization
10,446

 
8,194

 
 
 
 
 
 
Realized gain from accumulated depreciation and amortization on real estate sold (see below)
(5,194
)
 
(402
)
 
Less: Non-controlling interest in consolidated joint ventures’ share of accumulated depreciation and amortization on real estate sold
1,188

 
3

 
Our share of accumulated depreciation and amortization on real estate sold
(4,006
)
 
(399
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less: Operating lease income on above/below market lease intangible amortization
(382
)
 
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
Our share of real estate depreciation, amortization and gain adjustments
$
6,058

 
$
7,795

 
 
 
 
 
 
GAAP gains/losses on sales of real estate include the effects of previously recognized real estate depreciation and amortization. For purposes of Core Earnings, our share of real estate depreciation and amortization is eliminated and, accordingly, the resultant gain/losses also must be adjusted. Following is a reconciliation of the related consolidated GAAP amounts to the amounts reflected in Core Earnings:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
GAAP realized gain on sale of real estate, net
$
31,010

 
$
2,331

 
Adjusted gain/loss on sale of real estate for purposes of Core Earnings
(27,004
)
 
(1,932
)
 
Our share of accumulated depreciation and amortization on real estate sold
$
4,006

 
$
399

 
 
 
 
 
(3)
The following is a reconciliation of GAAP net results from derivative transactions to our unrecognized derivative result presented in the computation of Core Earnings in the preceding table ($ in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net results from derivative transactions
$
14,959

 
$
(1,981
)
 
Hedging interest expense
2,889

 
3,728

 
Hedging realized result
(9,738
)
 
186

 
Adjustments for unrecognized derivative results
$
8,110

 
$
1,933






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Core Earnings has limitations as an analytical tool. Some of these limitations are:
 
•
Core Earnings does not reflect the impact of certain cash charges resulting from matters we consider not to be indicative of our ongoing operations and is not necessarily indicative of cash necessary to fund cash needs; and
 
•
other companies in our industry may calculate Core Earnings differently than we do, limiting its usefulness as a comparative measure.
 
Because of these limitations, Core Earnings should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income (loss) attributable to shareholders or any other performance measures calculated in accordance with GAAP, or as an alternative to cash flows from operations as a measure of our liquidity.
 
In the future we may incur gains and losses that are the same as or similar to some of the adjustments in this presentation. Our presentation of Core Earnings should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or non-recurring items.
 
Income from sales of securitized loans, net of hedging
 
We present income from sales of securitized loans, net of hedging, a non-GAAP financial measure, as a supplemental measure of the performance of our loan securitization business. Since our loans sold into securitizations to date are comprised of long-term fixed-rate loans, the result of hedging those exposures prior to securitization represents a substantial portion of our securitization profitability. Therefore, we view these two components of our profitability together when assessing the performance of this business activity and find it a meaningful measure of the Company’s performance as a whole. When evaluating the performance of our sale of loans into securitization business, we generally consider the income from sales of securitized loans, net, in conjunction with other income statement items that are directly related to such securitization transactions, including portions of the realized net result from derivative transactions that are specifically related to hedges on the securitized or sold loans, which we reflect as hedge gain/(loss) related to loans securitized, a non-GAAP financial measure, in the table below.
 
Set forth below is an unaudited reconciliation of income from sale of securitized loans, net to income (loss) from sale of loans, net as reported in our consolidated financial statements included herein and an unaudited reconciliation of hedge gain/(loss) relating to loans securitized to net results from derivative transactions as reported in our consolidated financial statements included herein ($ in thousands except for number of loans and securitizations):

 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
Number of loans
28

 
—

Face amount of loans sold into securitizations
$
436,547

 
$
—

Number of securitizations
2

 
—

 
 
 
 
 
Income from sales of securitized loans, net (1)
$
5,351

 
$
—

Hedge gain/(loss) related to loans securitized (2)
6,567

 
—

Income from sales of securitized loans, net of hedging
11,918

 
—

Adjustment for economic gain on securitization transactions not recognized under GAAP for which risk has been substantially transferred
(38
)
 
—

Core gain on sale of securitized loans
$
11,880

 
$
—

 



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(1)
The following is a reconciliation of income (loss) from sale of loans, net, which is the closest GAAP measure, as reported in our consolidated financial statements included herein to the non-GAAP financial measure of income from sales of securitized loans, net ($ in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
Income from sales of loans, net
$
4,888

 
$
(999
)
Unrealized losses on loans related to lower of cost or market adjustments
463

 
999

(Income) loss from sale of loans (non-securitized), net
—

 
—

Income from sales of securitized loans, net
$
5,351

 
$
—


(2)
The following is a reconciliation of net results from derivative transactions, which is the closest GAAP measure, as reported in our consolidated financial statements included herein to the non-GAAP financial measure of hedge gain/(loss) related to loans securitized ($ in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
Net results from derivative transactions
$
14,959

 
$
(1,981
)
Hedge gain/(loss) related to lending and securities positions
(8,392
)
 
3,130

Hedge gain/(loss) related to loans (non-securitized)
—

 
(1,149
)
Hedge gain/(loss) related to loans securitized
$
6,567

 
$
—


Adjusted leverage

We present adjusted leverage, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, as a supplemental measure of our performance. We define adjusted leverage as the ratio of (i) debt obligations, net of deferred financing costs, adjusted for non-recourse indebtedness related to securitizations that is consolidated on our GAAP balance sheet to (ii) GAAP total equity. We believe adjusted leverage assists investors in comparing our leverage across reporting periods on a consistent basis by excluding non-recourse debt related to securitized loans.

Set forth below is an unaudited computation of adjusted leverage ($ in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
Debt obligations, net
$
4,624,608

 
$
4,379,826

Less: CLO Debt(1)
(683,095
)
 
(688,479
)
Adjusted debt obligations
3,941,513

 
3,691,347

 
 
 
 
Total equity
1,503,292

 
1,488,146

 
 
 
 
Adjusted leverage
2.6

 
2.5

 
(1)
As more fully discussed in Note 8 to our consolidated financial statements, we contributed over $888.4 million of balance sheet loans into two CLO securitizations that remain on our balance sheet for accounting purposes but should be excluded from debt obligations for adjusted leverage calculation purposes. 


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Cost of funds
 
We present cost of funds, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, as a supplemental measure of the Company’s cost of debt financing. We define cost of funds as interest expense as reported on our consolidated statements of income adjusted to exclude interest expense related to liabilities for transfers not considered sales and include the net interest expense component resulting from our hedging activities, which is currently included in net results from derivative transactions on our consolidated statements of income. Interest income, net of cost of funds which is a non-GAAP financial measure, is defined as interest income, less interest income related to mortgage loans transferred but not considered sold less cost of funds.
 
Set forth below is an unaudited reconciliation of interest expense to cost of funds ($ in thousands):
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
$
(44,713
)
 
$
(31,415
)
Net interest expense component of hedging activities (1)
(2,889
)
 
(3,728
)
Cost of funds
$
(47,602
)
 
$
(35,143
)
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
$
78,206

 
$
57,512

Cost of funds
(47,602
)
 
(35,143
)
Interest income, net of cost of funds
$
30,604

 
$
22,369

 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
Net result from derivative transactions
$
14,959

 
$
(1,981
)
 
Hedging realized result
(9,738
)
 
186

 
Hedging unrecognized result
(8,110
)
 
(1,933
)
 
Net interest expense component of hedging activities
$
(2,889
)
 
$
(3,728
)

 


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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
Interest Rate Risk
 
The nature of the Company’s business exposes it to market risk arising from changes in interest rates. Changes, both increases and decreases, in the rates the Company is able to charge its borrowers, the yields the Company is able to achieve in its securities investments, and the Company’s cost of borrowing directly impacts its net income. The Company’s interest income stream from loans and securities is generally fixed over the life of its assets, whereas it uses floating-rate debt to finance a significant portion of its investments. Another component of interest rate risk is the effect changes in interest rates will have on the market value of the assets the Company acquires. The Company faces the risk that the market value of its assets will increase or decrease at different rates than that of its liabilities, including its hedging instruments. The Company mitigates interest rate risk through utilization of hedging instruments, primarily interest rate swap and futures agreements. Interest rate swap and futures agreements are utilized to hedge against future interest rate increases on the Company’s borrowings and potential adverse changes in the value of certain assets that result from interest rate changes. The Company generally seeks to hedge assets that have a duration longer than five years, including newly originated conduit first mortgage loans, securities in the Company’s CMBS portfolio if long enough in duration, and most of its U.S. Agency Securities portfolio.

The following table summarizes the change in net income for a 12-month period commencing March 31, 2018 and the change in fair value of our investments and indebtedness assuming an increase or decrease of 100 basis points in the LIBOR interest rate on March 31, 2018, both adjusted for the effects of our interest rate hedging activities ($ in thousands):
 
 
Projected change
in net income(1)
 
Projected change
in portfolio
value
 
 
 
 
Change in interest rate:
 
 
 
Decrease by 1.00%
$
(16,454
)
 
$
16,682

Increase by 1.00%
16,981

 
(16,449
)
 
(1)
Subject to limits for floors on our floating rate investments and indebtedness.
 
Market Value Risk
 
The Company’s securities investments are reflected at their estimated fair value. The change in estimated fair value of securities available-for-sale is reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income. The change in estimated fair value of Agency interest-only securities is recorded in current period earnings. The estimated fair value of these securities fluctuates primarily due to changes in interest rates and other factors. Generally, in a rising interest rate environment, the estimated fair value of these securities would be expected to decrease; conversely, in a decreasing interest rate environment, the estimated fair value of these securities would be expected to increase. As market volatility increases or liquidity decreases, the market value of the Company’s assets may be adversely impacted. The Company’s fixed rate mortgage loan portfolio is subject to the same risks. However, to the extent those loans are classified as held for sale, they are reflected at the lower of cost or market. Otherwise, held for investment mortgage loans are reflected at values equal to the unpaid principal balances net of certain fees, costs and loan loss allowances.
 

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Liquidity Risk
 
Market disruptions may lead to a significant decline in transaction activity in all or a significant portion of the asset classes in which the Company invests and may at the same time lead to a significant contraction in short-term and long-term debt and equity funding sources. A decline in liquidity of real estate and real estate-related investments, as well as a lack of availability of observable transaction data and inputs, may make it more difficult to sell the Company’s investments or determine their fair values. As a result, the Company may be unable to sell its investments, or only be able to sell its investments at a price that may be materially different from the fair values presented. Also, in such conditions, there is no guarantee that the Company’s borrowing arrangements or other arrangements for obtaining leverage will continue to be available or, if available, will be available on terms and conditions acceptable to the Company. In addition, a decline in market value of the Company’s assets may have particular adverse consequences in instances where it borrowed money based on the fair value of its assets. A decrease in the market value of the Company’s assets may result in the lender requiring it to post additional collateral or otherwise sell assets at a time when it may not be in the Company’s best interest to do so. The Company’s captive insurance company subsidiary, Tuebor, is subject to state regulations which require that dividends may only be made with regulatory approval. The Company’s broker-dealer subsidiary, LCS, is also required to be compliant with FINRA and SEC regulations which require that dividends may only be made with regulatory approval.
 
Credit Risk
 
The Company is subject to varying degrees of credit risk in connection with its investments. The Company seeks to manage credit risk by performing deep credit fundamental analyses of potential assets and through ongoing asset management. The Company’s investment guidelines do not limit the amount of its equity that may be invested in any type of its assets; however, investments greater than a certain size are subject to approval by the Risk and Underwriting Committee of the board of directors.
 
Credit Spread Risk
 
Credit spread risk is the risk that interest rate spreads between two different financial instruments will change. In general, fixed-rate commercial mortgages and CMBS are priced based on a spread to Treasury or interest rate swaps. The Company generally benefits if credit spreads narrow during the time that it holds a portfolio of mortgage loans or CMBS investments, and the Company may experience losses if credit spreads widen during the time that it holds a portfolio of mortgage loans or CMBS investments. The Company actively monitors its exposure to changes in credit spreads and the Company may enter into credit total return swaps or take positions in other credit related derivative instruments to moderate its exposure against losses associated with a widening of credit spreads.
 
Risks Related to Real Estate
 
Real estate and real estate-related assets, including loans and commercial real estate-related securities, are subject to volatility and may be affected adversely by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, national, regional and local economic conditions (which may be adversely affected by industry slowdowns and other factors); local real estate conditions; changes or continued weakness in specific industry segments; construction quality, age and design; demographic factors; environmental conditions; competition from comparable property types or properties; changes in tenant mix or performance and retroactive changes to building or similar codes. In addition, decreases in property values reduce the value of the collateral and the potential proceeds available to a borrower to repay the underlying loans, which could also cause the Company to suffer losses.
 
Covenant Risk
 
In the normal course of business, the Company enters into loan and securities repurchase agreements and credit facilities with certain lenders to finance its real estate investment transactions. These agreements contain, among other conditions, events of default and various covenants and representations. If such events are not cured by the Company or waived by the lenders, the lenders may decide to curtail or limit extension of credit, and the Company may be forced to repay its advances or loans. In addition, the Company’s Notes are subject to covenants, including limitations on the incurrence of additional debt, restricted payments, liens, sales of assets, affiliate transactions and other covenants typical for financings of this type. The Company’s failure to comply with these covenants could result in an event of default, which could result in the Company being required to repay these borrowings before their due date. As of March 31, 2018, the Company believes it was in compliance with all covenants.
 

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Diversification Risk
 
The assets of the Company are concentrated in the real estate sector. Accordingly, the investment portfolio of the Company may be subject to more rapid change in value than would be the case if the Company were to maintain a wide diversification among investments or industry sectors. Furthermore, even within the real estate sector, the investment portfolio may be relatively concentrated in terms of geography and type of real estate investment. This lack of diversification may subject the investments of the Company to more rapid change in value than would be the case if the assets of the Company were more widely diversified.
 
Concentrations of Market Risk
 
Concentrations of market risk may exist with respect to the Company’s investments. Market risk is a potential loss the Company may incur as a result of change in the fair values of its investments. The Company may also be subject to risk associated with concentrations of investments in geographic regions and industries.
 
Regulatory Risk
 
The Company established a broker-dealer subsidiary, LCS, which was initially licensed and capitalized to do business in July 2010. LCS is required to be compliant with FINRA and SEC requirements on an ongoing basis and is subject to multiple operating and reporting requirements to which all broker-dealer entities are subject. Additionally, Ladder Capital Asset Management LLC (“LCAM”) is a registered investment adviser. LCAM is required to be compliant with SEC requirements on an ongoing basis and is subject to multiple operating and reporting requirements to which all registered investment advisers are subject. In addition, Tuebor is subject to state regulation as a captive insurance company. If LCS, the Adviser or Tuebor fail to comply with regulatory requirements, they could be subject to loss of their licenses and registration and/or economic penalties.
 
Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company’s management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as required by Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Exchange Act as of March 31, 2018. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective, as of March 31, 2018, to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the applicable rules and forms, and that it is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Due to the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no material impacts as a result of the accounting pronouncements adopted during the quarter ended March 31, 2018, and as such,there were no changes in controls required. There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended March 31, 2018 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


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Part II - Other Information
 
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
 
From time to time, we may be involved in litigation and claims incidental to the conduct of our business in the ordinary course. Further, certain of our subsidiaries, including our registered broker-dealer, registered investment advisers and captive insurance company, are subject to scrutiny by government regulators, which could result in enforcement proceedings or litigation related to regulatory compliance matters. We are not presently a party to any material enforcement proceedings, litigation related to regulatory compliance matters or any other type of material litigation matters. We maintain insurance policies in amounts and with the coverage and deductibles we believe are adequate, based on the nature and risks of our business, historical experience and industry standards.
 
Item 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes during the three months ended March 31, 2018 to the risk factors in Item 1A in our Annual Report.

Item 2. Unregistered Sale of Securities and Use of Proceeds

None.

Stock Repurchases

On October 30, 2014, the board of directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $50.0 million of the Company’s Class A common stock from time to time without further approval. Stock repurchases by the Company are generally made for cash in open market transactions at prevailing market prices but may also be made in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The timing and amount of purchases are determined based upon prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, there were no repurchases of Class A common stock by the Company.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
 
Not applicable.
 
Item 5. Other Information

None.


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Item 6. Exhibits

EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
 
EXHIBIT
NO.
 
DESCRIPTION
10.1 #
 
 
 
 
 
101
 
Interactive Data Files Pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017; (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017; (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017; (iv) the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and the year ended December 31, 2017; (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017; and (vi) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
*                                        The certifications attached hereto as Exhibits 32.1 and 32.2 are furnished to the SEC pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, nor shall they be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.

#                                 Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.


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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
 
 
 
LADDER CAPITAL CORP
 
 
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date: May 4, 2018
 
By:
/s/ BRIAN HARRIS
 
 
 
Brian Harris
 
 
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
Date: May 4, 2018
 
By:
/s/ MARC FOX
 
 
 
Marc Fox
 
 
 
Chief Financial Officer



116