| Valuation method | Value, $ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 285.13 | 1008 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 15.73 | -39 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | n/a | |
| Graham Formula | 84.77 | 229 |
Saratoga Investment Corp (NYSE: SAR) is a specialty finance company focused on providing leveraged loans and mezzanine debt to U.S. middle-market companies. Operating as a Business Development Company (BDC) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, Saratoga Investment Corp plays a critical role in financing small and mid-sized businesses that may not have access to traditional bank lending. The company generates revenue through interest income from its debt investments and capital gains from equity positions. With an SBIC-licensed subsidiary, Saratoga benefits from advantageous leverage terms, enhancing its ability to deploy capital efficiently. The firm’s investment strategy targets companies with strong cash flows and growth potential, positioning it as a key player in the middle-market lending space. As part of the broader Financial Services sector, Saratoga Investment Corp contributes to economic growth by supporting underserved businesses while offering investors exposure to high-yield debt instruments.
Saratoga Investment Corp presents an attractive opportunity for income-focused investors, given its 8.00% dividend yield and consistent earnings performance (diluted EPS of $2.02). The company’s focus on middle-market lending provides diversification benefits, though it also exposes investors to credit risk, particularly in economic downturns. With a low beta (0.034), the stock exhibits lower volatility relative to the broader market, making it a potential hedge in uncertain environments. However, high leverage (total debt of ~$730.6B) and reliance on interest income could pose risks if borrowing costs rise or credit quality deteriorates. Investors should weigh the stable cash flows against sector-specific risks before allocating capital.
Saratoga Investment Corp competes in the crowded middle-market lending space, where differentiation hinges on underwriting discipline, cost of capital, and borrower relationships. Its SBIC license provides a competitive edge by allowing access to low-cost government-backed leverage, improving returns on equity. The firm’s focus on mezzanine debt and leveraged loans allows it to capture higher yields compared to senior secured lenders, though this comes with elevated default risk. Unlike larger BDCs with diversified portfolios, Saratoga’s smaller scale (~$389.8M market cap) may limit its ability to absorb large credit losses. However, its niche focus on middle-market companies enables deeper due diligence and stronger borrower covenants. Competitors often have broader platforms or lower funding costs, but Saratoga’s specialized approach and SBIC advantage help it maintain a defensible position in the market.