| Valuation method | Value, $ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 27.78 | 340 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 2.01 | -68 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | 4.43 | -30 |
| Graham Formula | 76.37 | 1110 |
Highland Income Fund (NYSE: HFRO) is a closed-end fixed income mutual fund managed by Highland Capital Management, specializing in floating-rate loans and below-investment-grade securities. The fund primarily invests in adjustable-rate senior loans to corporations and partnerships, offering investors exposure to high-yield debt markets with a focus on income generation. Benchmarking against the Credit Suisse Leveraged Loan Index, HFRO targets global fixed income opportunities while utilizing derivatives to enhance returns. Formerly known as Pyxis Floating Rate Opportunities Fund, HFRO has operated since 2000 and is domiciled in the U.S. Its strategy appeals to income-focused investors seeking diversification in leveraged loans, though it carries higher credit risk due to its non-investment-grade focus. With a market cap of ~$278M, HFRO remains a niche player in the asset management-income sector.
HFRO presents a high-risk, high-reward proposition for income-seeking investors, given its focus on floating-rate loans and below-investment-grade securities. The fund’s negative revenue and net income in recent filings raise concerns about its ability to sustain returns, though its $0.462/share dividend suggests a current yield appeal. The fund’s low beta (~0.91) indicates relative stability compared to broader markets, but credit risk remains elevated due to its speculative-grade holdings. Operating cash flow ($79.9M) appears healthy, but the lack of debt suggests limited leverage—a positive for risk management. Investors should weigh its income potential against sector-wide challenges in leveraged lending and potential liquidity constraints in its holdings.
HFRO competes in the crowded leveraged loan and high-yield fixed income space, where scale and credit selection are critical. Its niche focus on floating-rate loans differentiates it from broader fixed-income funds, offering a hedge against rising interest rates. However, its small AUM (~$278M) limits economies of scale compared to larger peers like Blackstone Credit (BX) or Ares Capital (ARCC). The fund’s reliance on Highland Capital’s credit expertise is a double-edged sword—while it benefits from specialized management, its performance is highly dependent on a single advisor’s capabilities. HFRO’s benchmark-agnostic approach allows flexibility but may lead to inconsistent returns. Its zero leverage policy is conservative but could constrain returns in a low-rate environment. Competitors with diversified platforms (e.g., BX, ARCC) often have better access to deal flow and lower borrowing costs, putting HFRO at a disadvantage in pricing and origination.