Ares Management is limiting investor withdrawals from its $10.7 billion Ares Strategic Income Fund after a surge in redemption requests, following a trend among major private credit firms.
Investor Concerns and Fund Response
Investors requested to redeem more than 11% of shares in the Ares Strategic Income Fund this quarter. In response, Ares has capped payouts at 5% of outstanding shares, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund, valued at $10.7 billion as of February 28 with a total portfolio value of $22.7 billion, plans to fulfill 43% of requested redemptions on a pro-rated basis.
Despite the withdrawal requests, the fund experienced growth in the first quarter, with $708 million in inflows resulting in a $184 million net gain. The amount of money coming into the fund actually increased from January to March, even as concerns about the asset class grew.
Broader Trends in Private Credit
Ares joins Blackstone, Apollo and Blue Owl in restricting payouts as investors seek to exit the private credit market. This comes amid rising anxiety over the underlying quality of private credit loans, overexposure to software companies, and concerns about liquidity.
Ares stated in a letter to shareholders that its decision to limit withdrawals is “consistent with the Fund’s design” and highlighted the firm’s ability to generate returns even during challenging economic conditions. The fund believes periods of market disruption can create attractive opportunities in direct lending, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an example.
Frequently Asked Questions
What action has Ares taken regarding investor withdrawals?
Ares has limited investor withdrawals from the Ares Strategic Income Fund to 5% of outstanding shares.
How much money did investors attempt to withdraw this quarter?
Investors requested to redeem more than $1.2 billion in the quarter.
Did the Ares Strategic Income Fund experience any growth despite the withdrawal requests?
Yes, the fund grew in the first quarter, with $708 million in inflows leading to a $184 million net gain.
As private credit firms navigate increased investor scrutiny and market volatility, what impact will these limitations on withdrawals have on investor confidence in the long term?
