EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC. - Quarter Report: 2019 September (Form 10-Q)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2019

or

For the transition period to

Commission File Number 814-00098

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

(Former Name, Former Address and Former Fiscal Year, if Changed Since Last Report)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (713) 529-0900

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

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 ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files). Yes ☐ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

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. ☐ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company. Yes ☐ No ☒

There were 13,518,146 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $.001 par value, outstanding, as of November 13, 2019.

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

(A Delaware Corporation)

INDEX

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

Part I. Financial Information

Item 1. Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited) 

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

(Unaudited)

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION—SELECTED PER SHARE DATA AND RATIOS

(Unaudited)

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2019

(Unaudited)

(in thousands, except share data)

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – (Continued)

SEPTEMBER 30, 2019

(Unaudited)

Except for our holding of shares of MVC Capital, Inc. (“MVC”), all of our portfolio securities are restricted from public sale without prior registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (hereafter, the “Securities Act”) or other relevant regulatory authority. We negotiate certain aspects of the method and timing of the disposition of our investment in each portfolio company, including registration rights and related costs.

As a business development company (“BDC”) regulated pursuant to the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”), we may invest up to 30% of our assets in non-qualifying portfolio investments, as permitted by the 1940 Act. Specifically, we may invest up to 30% of our assets in entities that are not considered “eligible portfolio companies” (as defined in the 1940 Act), including companies located outside of the United States, entities that are operating pursuant to certain exceptions under the 1940 Act, and publicly-traded entities with a market capitalization exceeding $250 million. As of September 30, 2019, we held 88.5% of our assets at fair value in securities of portfolio companies that constituted qualifying investments under the 1940 Act. As of September 30, 2019, except for our shares of MVC, all of our investments are in enterprises that are considered eligible portfolio companies under the 1940 Act. We provide significant managerial assistance to portfolio companies that comprise 86.2% of the total value of the investments in portfolio securities as of September 30, 2019.

We are classified as a “non-diversified” investment company under the 1940 Act, which means we are not limited in the proportion of our assets that may be invested in the securities of a single issuer. The value of one segment called “Shipping products and services” includes one portfolio company and was 54.1% of our net asset value, 31.8% of our total assets and 61.8% of our investments in portfolio company securities (at fair value) as of September 30, 2019. The value of one segment called “Energy” includes one portfolio company and was 21.4% of our net asset value, 13.8% of our total assets and 24.5% of our investments in portfolio company securities (at fair value) as of September 30, 2019. Changes in business or industry trends or in the financial condition, results of operations, or the market’s assessment of any single portfolio company will affect the net asset value and the market price of our common stock to a greater extent than would be the case if we were a “diversified” company holding numerous investments.

Our investments in portfolio securities consist of the following types of securities as of September 30, 2019 (in thousands):

The following is a summary by industry of the Fund’s investments in portfolio securities as of September 30, 2019 (in thousands):

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2018

(in thousands, except share data)

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – (Continued)

DECEMBER 31, 2018

(in thousands, except share data)

Except for our holding of shares of MVC, substantially all of our portfolio securities are restricted from public sale without prior registration under the Securities Act or other relevant regulatory authority. We negotiate certain aspects of the method and timing of the disposition of our investment in each portfolio company, including registration rights and related costs.

As a BDC, we may invest up to 30% of our assets in non-qualifying portfolio investments, as permitted by the 1940 Act. Specifically, we may invest up to 30% of our assets in entities that are not considered “eligible portfolio companies” (as defined in the 1940 Act), including companies located outside of the United States, entities that are operating pursuant to certain exceptions under the 1940 Act, and publicly-traded entities with a market capitalization exceeding $250 million. As of December 31, 2018, we had invested 87.5% of our assets in securities of portfolio companies that constituted qualifying investments under the 1940 Act. As of December 31, 2018, except for our shares of MVC, all of our investments are in enterprises that are considered eligible portfolio companies under the 1940 Act. We provide significant managerial assistance to portfolio companies that comprise 84.6% of the total value of the investments in portfolio securities as of December 31, 2018.

We are classified as a “non-diversified” investment company under the 1940 Act, which means we are not limited in the proportion of our assets that may be invested in the securities of a single issuer. The value of one segment called “Shipping products and services” includes one portfolio company and was 47.1% of our net asset value, 28.9% of our total assets and 58.5% of our investments in portfolio company securities (at fair value) as of December 31, 2018. The value of one segment called “Energy” includes one portfolio company and was 20.7% of our net asset value, 12.7% of our total assets and 25.7% of our investments in portfolio company securities (at fair value) as of December 31, 2018. Changes in business or industry trends or in the financial condition, results of operations, or the market’s assessment of any single portfolio company will affect the net asset value and the market price of our common stock to a greater extent than would be the case if we were a “diversified” company holding numerous investments.

Our investments in portfolio securities consist of the following types of securities as of December 31, 2018 (in thousands):

The following is a summary by industry of the Fund’s investments in portfolio securities as of December 31, 2018 (in thousands):

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

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2019

(Unaudited)

Description of Business—Equus Total Return, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our,” “Equus” and the “Fund”), a Delaware corporation, was formed by Equus Investments II, L.P. (the “Partnership”) on August 16, 1991. On July 1, 1992, the Partnership was reorganized and all of the assets and liabilities of the Partnership were transferred to the Fund in exchange for shares of common stock of the Fund. Our shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ‘EQS’. On August 11, 2006, our shareholders approved the change of the Fund’s investment strategy to a total return investment objective. This strategy seeks to provide the highest total return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income. In connection with this strategic investment change, the shareholders also approved the change of name from Equus II Incorporated to Equus Total Return, Inc.

So long as we remain an investment company and not an operating company as contemplated in our Plan of Reorganization described in Note 6 below, we will attempt to maximize the return to our stockholders in the form of current investment income and long-term capital gains by investing in the debt and equity securities of companies with a total enterprise value of between $5.0 million and $75.0 million, although we may engage in transactions with smaller or larger investee companies from time to time. We seek to invest primarily in companies pursuing growth either through acquisition or organically, leveraged buyouts, management buyouts and recapitalizations of existing businesses or special situations. Our income-producing investments may include debt securities including subordinate debt, debt convertible into common or preferred stock, or debt combined with warrants and common and preferred stock. Debt and preferred equity financing may also be used to create long-term capital appreciation through the exercise and sale of warrants received in connection with the financing. We seek to achieve capital appreciation by making investments in equity and equity-oriented securities issued by privately-owned companies (or smaller public companies) in transactions negotiated directly with such companies. Given market conditions over the past several years and the performance of our portfolio, our Management and Board of Directors believe it prudent to continue to review alternatives to refine and further clarify the current strategies.

We elected to be treated as a BDC under the 1940 Act. We currently qualify as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) for federal income tax purposes and, therefore, are not required to pay corporate income taxes on any income or gains that we distribute to our stockholders. We have certain wholly owned taxable subsidiaries (“Taxable Subsidiaries”) each of which holds one or more portfolio investments listed on our Schedules of Investments. The purpose of these Taxable Subsidiaries is to permit us to hold certain income-producing investments or portfolio companies organized as limited liability companies, or LLCs, (or other forms of pass-through entities) and still satisfy the RIC tax requirement that at least 90% of our gross revenue for income tax purposes must consist of investment income. Absent the Taxable Subsidiaries, a portion of the gross income of these income-producing investments or of any LLC (or other pass-through entity) portfolio investment, as the case may be, would flow through directly to us for the 90% test. To the extent that such income did not consist of investment income, it could jeopardize our ability to qualify as a RIC and, therefore, cause us to incur significant federal income taxes. The income of the LLCs (or other pass-through entities) owned by Taxable Subsidiaries is taxed to the Taxable Subsidiaries and does not flow through to us, thereby helping us preserve our RIC status and resultant tax advantages. We do not consolidate the Taxable Subsidiaries for income tax purposes and they may generate income tax expense because of the Taxable Subsidiaries’ ownership of the portfolio companies. We reflect any such income tax expense on our Statements of Operations.

Basis of Presentation—In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), we do not consolidate portfolio company investments, including those in which we have a controlling interest. Our interim unaudited financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), for interim financial information and in accordance with the requirements of reporting on Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X, under the Exchange Act. Accordingly, they are unaudited and exclude some disclosures required for annual financial statements. We believe that we have made all adjustments, consisting solely of normal recurring accruals, necessary for the fair presentation of these interim financial statements.

The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 are not necessarily indicative of results that ultimately may be achieved for the remainder of the year. The interim unaudited financial statements and notes thereto should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Fund’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

Liquidity—There are several factors that may materially affect our liquidity during the reasonably foreseeable future. We are evaluating the impact of current market conditions on our portfolio company valuations and their ability to provide current income. We have followed valuation techniques in a consistent manner; however, we are cognizant of current market conditions that might affect future valuations of portfolio securities. We believe that our operating cash flow and cash on hand will be sufficient to meet operating requirements and, to the extent we remain a BDC, to finance routine follow-on investments, if any from the date of this filing, through the next twelve months.

Cash and Cash Equivalents—As of September 30, 2019, we had cash and cash equivalents of $4.8 million. We had $42.9 million of our net assets of $49.0 million invested in portfolio securities.

As of December 31, 2018, we had cash and cash equivalents of $7.4 million. We had $35.0 million of our net assets of $43.5 million invested in portfolio securities

We exclude “Restricted Cash and Temporary Cash Investments” used for purposes of complying with RIC requirements from cash equivalents.

Restricted Cash and Temporary Cash Investments—As of September 30, 2019, we had $27.3 million of restricted cash and temporary cash investments, including primarily the proceeds of a quarter-end margin loan that we incurred to maintain the diversification requirements applicable to a RIC to maintain our pass-through tax treatment. Of this amount, $27.0 million was invested in U.S. Treasury bills and $0.3 million represented a required 1% brokerage margin deposit. These securities were held by a securities brokerage firm and pledged along with other assets to secure repayment of the margin loan. The U.S. Treasury bills matured on October 5, 2019 and we subsequently repaid this margin loan, plus interest.

As of December 31, 2018, we had $27.3 million of restricted cash and of temporary cash investments, including primarily the proceeds of a quarter-end margin loan that we incurred to maintain the diversification requirements applicable to a RIC. Of this amount, $27.0 million was invested in U.S. Treasury bills and $0.3 million represented a required 1% brokerage margin deposit. These securities were held by a securities brokerage firm and pledged along with other assets to secure repayment of the margin loan. The U.S. Treasury bills were sold on January 2, 2019 and we subsequently repaid this margin loan, plus interest.

Dividends—So long as we remain a BDC, we will pay out net investment income and/or realized net capital gains, if any, on an annual basis as required under the 1940 Act.

Investment Commitments—Under certain circumstances, we may be called on to make follow-on investments in certain portfolio companies. If we do not have sufficient funds to make follow-on investments, the portfolio company in need of the investment may be negatively impacted. Also, our equity interest in the estimated fair value of the portfolio company could be reduced.

As of September 30, 2019, we had no outstanding commitments to our portfolio company investments.

RIC Borrowings, Restricted Cash and Temporary Cash Investments—We may periodically borrow sufficient funds to maintain the Fund’s RIC status by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. We cannot assure you that any such arrangement will be available in the future. If we are unable to borrow funds to make qualifying investments, we may no longer qualify as a RIC. We would then be subject to corporate income tax on the Fund’s net investment income and realized capital gains, and distributions to stockholders would be subject to income tax as ordinary dividends. If we remain a BDC and do not become an operating company as described in Note 6 – Plan of Reorganization below, our failure to continue to qualify as a RIC could be materially adverse to us and our stockholders.

As of September 30, 2019, we borrowed $27.0 million to maintain our RIC status by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. We collateralized such borrowings with restricted cash and temporary cash investments in U.S. Treasury bills of $27.3 million.

As of December 31, 2018, we borrowed $27.0 million to maintain our RIC status by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. We collateralized such borrowings with restricted cash and temporary cash investments in U.S. Treasury bills of $27.3 million.

Certain Risks and Uncertainties—Market and economic volatility which has become endemic in the past few years has constrained the availability of debt financing for small and medium-sized companies such as Equus and its portfolio companies. Such debt financing generally has shorter maturities, higher interest rates and fees, and more restrictive terms than debt facilities available in the past. In addition, during these years and continuing into 2019, the price of our common stock remained well below our net asset value, thereby making it undesirable to issue additional shares of our common stock below net asset value. Because of these challenges, our near-term strategies shifted from originating debt and equity investments to preserving liquidity necessary to meet our operational needs. Key initiatives that we have previously undertaken to provide necessary liquidity include monetizations, the suspension of dividends and the internalization of management. We are also evaluating potential opportunities that could enable us to effect a change to our business and become an operating company as described in Note 6 – Plan of Reorganization below. We believe we have sufficient liquidity to meet our operating requirements for the remainder of 2019 and 12 months from the date of this filing.

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Fund in the preparation of our financial statements:

Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Although we believe the estimates and assumptions used in preparing these financial statements and related notes are reasonable in light of known facts and circumstances, actual results could differ from those estimates.

Valuation of Investments—For most of our investments, market quotations are not available. With respect to investments for which market quotations are not readily available or when such market quotations are deemed not to represent fair value, our Board has approved a multi-step valuation process each quarter, as described below:

During the first twelve months after an investment is made, we rely on the original investment amount to determine the fair value unless significant developments have occurred during this twelve-month period which would indicate a material effect on the portfolio company (such as results of operations or changes in general market conditions).

Investments are valued utilizing a yield analysis, enterprise value (“EV”) analysis, net asset value analysis, liquidation analysis, discounted cash flow analysis, or a combination of methods, as appropriate. The yield analysis uses loan spreads and other relevant information implied by market data involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities. Under the EV analysis, the EV of a portfolio company is first determined and allocated over the portfolio company’s securities in order of their preference relative to one another (i.e., “waterfall” allocation). To determine the EV, we typically use a market multiples approach that considers relevant and applicable market trading data of guideline public companies, transaction metrics from precedent M&A transactions and/or a discounted cash flow analysis. The net asset value analysis is used to derive a value of an underlying investment (such as real estate property) by dividing a relevant earnings stream by an appropriate capitalization rate. For this purpose, we consider capitalization rates for similar properties as may be obtained from guideline public companies and/or relevant transactions. The liquidation analysis is intended to approximate the net recovery value of an investment based on, among other things, assumptions regarding liquidation proceeds based on a hypothetical liquidation of a portfolio company’s assets. The discounted cash flow analysis uses valuation techniques to convert future cash flows or earnings to a range of fair values from which a single estimate may be derived utilizing an appropriate discount rate. The measurement is based on the net present value indicated by current market expectations about those future amounts.

In applying these methodologies, additional factors that we consider in fair value pricing our investments may include, as we deem relevant: security covenants, call protection provisions, and information rights; the nature and realizable value of any collateral; the portfolio company’s ability to make payments; the principal markets in which the portfolio company does business; publicly available financial ratios of peer companies; the principal market; and enterprise values, among other factors. Also, any failure by a portfolio company to achieve its business plan or obtain and maintain its financing arrangements could result in increased volatility and result in a significant and rapid change in its value.

Our general intent is to hold our loans to maturity when appraising our privately held debt investments. As such, we believe that the fair value will not exceed the cost of the investment. However, in addition to the previously described analysis involving allocation of value to the debt instrument, we perform a yield analysis assuming a hypothetical current sale of the security to determine if a debt security has been impaired. The yield analysis considers changes in interest rates and changes in leverage levels of the portfolio company as compared to the market interest rates and leverage levels. Assuming the credit quality of the portfolio company remains stable, the Fund will use the value determined by the yield analysis as the fair value for that security if less than the cost of the investment.

We record unrealized depreciation on investments when we determine that the fair value of a security is less than its cost basis, and will record unrealized appreciation when we determine that the fair value is greater than its cost basis.

Fair Value Measurement—Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and sets out a fair value hierarchy. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Inputs are broadly defined as assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2—Inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and fair value is determined through the use of models or other valuation methodologies.

Level 3—Inputs are unobservable for the asset or liability and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. The inputs into the determination of fair value are based upon the best information under the circumstances and may require significant management judgment or estimation.

In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment.

Investments for which prices are not observable are generally private investments in the debt and equity securities of operating companies. A primary valuation method used to estimate the fair value of these Level 3 investments is the discounted cash flow method (although a liquidation analysis, option theoretical, or other methodology may be used when more appropriate). The discounted cash flow approach to determine fair value (or a range of fair values) involves applying an appropriate discount rate(s) to the estimated future cash flows using various relevant factors depending on investment type, including comparing the latest arm’s length or market transactions involving the subject security to the selected benchmark credit spread, assumed growth rate (in cash flows), and capitalization rates/multiples (for determining terminal values of underlying portfolio companies). The valuation based on the inputs determined to be the most reasonable and probable is used as the fair value of the investment. In the case of our investment in Equus Energy, we also examine acreage values in comparable transactions and assess the impact upon the working interests held by Equus Energy. The determination of fair value using these methodologies may take into consideration a range of factors including, but not limited to, the price at which the investment was acquired, the nature of the investment, local market conditions, trading values on public exchanges for comparable securities, current and projected operating performance, financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment and anticipated financing transactions after the valuation date.

To assess the reasonableness of the discounted cash flow approach, the fair value of equity securities, including warrants, in portfolio companies may also consider the market approach—that is, through analyzing and applying to the underlying portfolio companies, market valuation multiples of publicly-traded firms engaged in businesses similar to those of the portfolio companies. The market approach to determining the fair value of a portfolio company’s equity security (or securities) will typically involve: (1) applying to the portfolio company’s trailing twelve months (or current year projected) EBITDA a low to high range of enterprise value to EBITDA multiples that are derived from an analysis of publicly-traded comparable companies, in order to arrive at a range of enterprise values for the portfolio company; (2) subtracting from the range of calculated enterprise values the outstanding balances of any debt or equity securities that would be senior in right of payment to the equity securities we hold; and (3) multiplying the range of equity values derived therefrom by our ownership share of such equity tranche in order to arrive at a range of fair values for our equity security (or securities). Application of these valuation methodologies involves a significant degree of judgment by Management.

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of Level 3 investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values that may ultimately be received or settled. Further, such investments are generally subject to legal and other restrictions or otherwise are less liquid than publicly traded instruments. If we were required to liquidate a portfolio investment in a forced or liquidation sale, we might realize significantly less than the value at which such investment had previously been recorded. With respect to Level 3 investments, where sufficient market quotations are not readily available or for which no or an insufficient number of indicative prices from pricing services or brokers or dealers have been received, we undertake, on a quarterly basis, our valuation process as described above.

We assess the levels of the investments at each measurement date, and transfers between levels are recognized on the subsequent measurement date closest in time to the actual date of the event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer. There were no transfers among Level 1, 2 and 3 for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and the year ended December 31, 2018.

As of September 30, 2019, investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis are categorized in the tables below based on the lowest level of significant input to the valuations:

As of December 31, 2018, investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis are categorized in the tables below based on the lowest level of significant input to the valuations:

The following table provides a reconciliation of fair value changes during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 for all investments for which we determine fair value using unobservable (Level 3) factors:

The following table provides a reconciliation of fair value changes during the nine months ended September 30, 2018 for all investments for which we determine fair value using unobservable (Level 3) factors:

Our investment portfolio is not composed of homogeneous debt and equity securities that can be valued with a small number of inputs. Instead, the majority of our investment portfolio is composed of complex debt and equity securities with distinct contract terms and conditions. As such, our valuation of each investment in our portfolio is unique and complex, often factoring in numerous different inputs, including historical and forecasted financial and operational performance of the portfolio company, project cash flows, market multiples, comparable market transactions, the priority of our securities compared with those of other investors, credit risk, interest rates, independent valuations and reviews and other inputs.

The following table summarizes the significant non-observable inputs in the fair value measurements of our Level 3 investments by category of investment and valuation technique as of September 30, 2019:

Because of the inherent uncertainty of the valuation of portfolio securities which do not have readily ascertainable market values, amounting to $38.0 million and $30.7 million as of September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively, our fair value determinations may materially differ from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for these securities. As of September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, one of our portfolio investments, consisting of 553,557 and 527,138 common shares of MVC, respectively, was publicly listed on the NYSE.

We adjust our net asset value for the changes in the value of our publicly held securities, if applicable, and material changes in the value of private securities, generally determined on a quarterly basis or as announced in a press release, and report those amounts to Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. Our net asset value appears in various publications, including Barron’s and The Wall Street Journal.

Investment Transactions—Investment transactions are recorded on the accrual method. Realized gains and losses on investments sold are computed on a specific identification basis.

We classify our investments in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act. Under the 1940 Act, “Control Investments” are defined as investments in companies in which the Fund owns more than 25% of the voting securities or maintains greater than 50% of the board representation. Under the 1940 Act, “Affiliate Investments” are defined as those non-control investments in companies in which we own between 5% and 25% of the voting securities. Under the 1940 Act, “Non-affiliate Investments” are defined as investments that are neither Control Investments nor Affiliate Investments. See also Note 4 for discussion of related party investment transactions.

As of September 30, 2019, we had no outstanding commitments to our portfolio company investments; however, under certain circumstances, we may be called on to make follow-on investments in certain portfolio companies. If we do not have sufficient funds to make follow-on investments, the portfolio company in need of the investment may be negatively impacted. Also, our equity interest in the estimated fair value of the portfolio company could be reduced. Follow-on investments may include capital infusions which are expenditures made directly to the portfolio company to ensure that operations are completed, thereby allowing the portfolio company to generate cash flows to service their debt.

Interest Income Recognition—We record interest income, adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount, on an accrual basis to the extent that we expect to collect such amounts. We accrete or amortize discounts and premiums on securities purchased over the life of the respective security using the effective yield method. The amortized cost of investments represents the original cost adjusted for the accretion of discount and/or amortization of premium on debt securities. We stop accruing interest on investments when we determine that interest is no longer collectible. We may also impair the accrued interest when we determine that all or a portion of the current accrual is uncollectible. If we receive any cash after determining that interest is no longer collectible, we treat such cash as payment on the principal balance until the entire principal balance has been repaid, before we recognize any additional interest income. We will write off uncollectible interest upon the occurrence of a definitive event such as a sale, bankruptcy, or reorganization of the relevant portfolio interest.

Net Realized Gains or Losses and Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation or Depreciation—Realized gains or losses are measured by the difference between the net proceeds from the sale or redemption of an investment or a financial instrument and the cost basis of the investment or financial instrument, without regard to unrealized appreciation or depreciation previously recognized, and includes investments written-off during the

period net of recoveries and realized gains or losses from in-kind redemptions. Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation reflects the net change in the fair value of the portfolio company investments and financial instruments and the reclassification of any prior period unrealized appreciation or depreciation on exited investments and financial instruments to realized gains or losses.

Payment in Kind Interest (PIK)—We have loans in our portfolio that may pay PIK interest. We add PIK interest, if any, computed at the contractual rate specified in each loan agreement, to the principal balance of the loan and recorded as interest income. To maintain our status as a RIC, we must pay out to stockholders this non-cash source of income in the form of dividends even if we have not yet collected any cash in respect of such investments. To the extent we remain BDC and a RIC, we will continue to pay out net investment income and/or realized capital gains, if any, on an annual basis as required under the 1940 Act.

Share-Based Compensation—We account for our share-based compensation using the fair value method, as prescribed by ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation. Accordingly, for restricted stock awards, we measure the grant date fair value based upon the market price of our common stock on the date of the grant and amortize the fair value of the awards as share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting term and account for forfeitures as they occur.

Earnings Per Share—Basic and diluted per share calculations are computed utilizing the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. In accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share, the unvested shares of restricted stock awarded pursuant to our equity compensation plans are participating securities and, therefore, are included in the basic earnings per share calculation. As a result, for all periods presented, there is no difference between diluted earnings per share and basic earnings per share amounts.

Cash Flows—For purposes of the Statements of Cash Flows, we consider all highly liquid temporary cash investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. We include our investing activities within cash flows from operations.

Taxes—So long as we remain a BDC, we intend to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code necessary to qualify as a RIC and, as such, will not be subject to federal income taxes on otherwise taxable income (including net realized capital gains) which is distributed to stockholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is recorded in the financial statements. We borrow money from time to time to maintain our tax status under the Internal Revenue Code as a RIC. See Note 1 for discussion of Taxable Subsidiaries and see Note 2 for further discussion of the Fund’s RIC borrowings.

All corporations organized in the State of Delaware are required to file an Annual Report and to pay a franchise tax. As a result, we paid Delaware Franchise tax in the amount of $0.02 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Texas margin tax applies to legal entities conducting business in Texas. The margin tax is based on our Texas sourced taxable margin. The tax is calculated by applying a tax rate to a base that considers both revenue and expenses and therefore has the characteristics of an income tax. As a result, we have no provision for margin tax expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, and we paid $3 thousand in state income tax for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Accounting Standards Recently Adopted— In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases, which requires lessees to recognize on the balance sheet a right of use asset, representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term, and a lease liability for all leases with terms greater than 12 months and the use of practical expedient for leases less than 12 months. The guidance also requires qualitative and quantitative disclosures designed to assess the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. The standard requires the use of a modified retrospective transition approach, which includes a number of optional practical expedients that entities may elect to apply. The new guidance was adopted effective January 1, 2019. The adoption of ASU 2016-02 did not have an impact on our financial statements as we currently have no operating leases as our principal offices are under a month-to-month lease arrangement for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods therein.

In August 2018, the SEC adopted rules (the "SEC Release") that require disclosure of changes in net assets within a registrant's Form 10Q filing on a quarter-to-date and year-to-date basis for both the current year and prior year comparative periods. The Company adopted the new requirement to present changes in net assets in interim financial statements within Form 10Q filings beginning January 1, 2019. The compliance date for the SEC Release was for all filings, as applicable, on or after November 5, 2018. The adoption of this rule did not have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.

Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted— In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments Credit Losses (Topic 326) —Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which amends the financial instruments impairment guidance so that an entity is required to measure expected credit losses for financial assets based on historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. As such, an entity will use forward-looking information to estimate credit losses. ASU 2016-13 also amends the guidance in FASB ASC 325 - 40, Investments Other, Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets, related to the subsequent measurement of accretable yield recognized as interest income over the life of a beneficial interest in securitized financial assets under the effective yield method. We believe that the impact of the adoption of this standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements as we do not have any financial instruments that are subject to this standard.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820), which is intended to improve fair value disclosure requirements by removing disclosures that are not cost-beneficial, clarifying disclosures’ specific requirements, and adding relevant disclosure requirements. The amendments take effect for all organizations for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We believe that the impact of the adoption of this standard will not have a material impact on our financial statements. .

Except as noted below, as compensation for services to the Fund, each Independent Director receives an annual fee of $40,000 paid quarterly in arrears, a fee of $2,000 for each meeting of the Board of Directors or committee thereof attended in person, a fee of $1,000 for participation in each telephonic meeting of the Board or committee thereof, and reimbursement of all out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at such meetings. The chair of each of our standing committees (audit, compensation, and nominating and governance) also receives an annual fee of $50,000, payable quarterly in arrears. We may also pay other one-time or recurring fees to members of our Board of Directors in special circumstances. None of our interested directors receive annual fees for their service on the Board of Directors.

We may also pay other one-time or recurring fees to members of our Board of Directors in special circumstances. In respect of services provided to the Fund by members of the Board not in connection with their roles and duties as directors, the Fund pays a rate of $300 per hour for services. For services provided to the Fund, we paid Kenneth I. Denos, P.C., a professional corporation owned by Kenneth I. Denos, a director of the Fund, $0.07 million during each of the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and $0.3 million during each on the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we received dividends in the form of additional shares of $0.2 million relating to our shareholding in MVC.

Also during the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we dissolved Equus Media Development Company, LLC (“EMDC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund and transferred EMDC’s assets, consisting of approximately $211,000 in cash and various creative entertainment properties, to the Fund.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we recorded a net change in unrealized appreciation of $10.7 million, to a net unrealized appreciation of $27.7 million. Such change in unrealized appreciation resulted primarily from the following changes:

During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we received dividends in the form of additional shares of $0.2 million relating to our shareholding in MVC.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we recorded a net change in unrealized appreciation of $5.9 million, to a net unrealized appreciation of $19.3 million. Such change in unrealized appreciation resulted primarily from the following changes:

Plan of Reorganization and Share Exchange with MVC Capital—On May 14, 2014, we announced that the Fund intended to effect a reorganization pursuant to Section 2(a)(33) of the 1940 Act (hereinafter, the “Plan of Reorganization”). As a first step to consummating the Plan of Reorganization, we sold to MVC Capital, Inc. (“MVC”) 2,112,000 newly-issued shares of the Fund’s common stock in exchange for 395,839 shares of MVC (such transaction is hereinafter referred to as the “Share Exchange”). MVC is a BDC traded on the NYSE that provides long-term debt and equity investment capital to fund growth, acquisitions and recapitalizations of companies in a variety of industries. The Share Exchange was calculated based on the Fund’s and MVC’s respective net asset value per share. At the time of the Share Exchange, the number of MVC shares received by Equus represented approximately 1.73% of MVC’s total outstanding shares of common stock.

Pursuant to the terms of a Share Exchange Agreement, dated May 12, 2014, entered into by Equus and MVC which memorialized the Share Exchange, we intend to finalize the Plan of Reorganization by pursuing a merger or consolidation with MVC or an operating company, which operating company may be a subsidiary or portfolio company of MVC. Absent Equus merging or consolidating with/into MVC or a subsidiary thereof, our current intention is for Equus to (i) terminate its election to be classified as a BDC under the 1940 Act, and (ii) be restructured as a publicly-traded operating company focused on the energy, natural resources, technology, and/or financial services sector. While we are presently evaluating various opportunities that could enable us to complete our Plan of Reorganization, we cannot assure you that we will be able to do so within any particular time period or at all. Moreover, we cannot assure you that the terms of any such transaction that would embody the transformation of Equus into an operating company would be acceptable to us.

Authorization to Withdraw BDC Election—On January 21, 2019, holders of a majority of the outstanding common stock of the Fund approved our cessation as a BDC under the 1940 Act and authorized our Board to cause the Fund’s withdrawal of its election to be classified as a BDC, effective as of a date designated by the Board and our Chief Executive Officer. Although this authorization, which was given as a consequence of our Plan of Reorganization, expired on July 31, 2019, we expect to receive an additional authorization from our stockholders in the future. Notwithstanding any such authorization to withdraw our BDC election, we will not submit any such withdrawal unless and until Equus has entered into a definitive agreement to effect a “Consolidation”, as such term is defined in our Plan of Reorganization. Further, even if we are again authorized to withdraw our election as a BDC, we will require a subsequent affirmative vote from holders of a majority of our outstanding voting shares to enter into any such definitive agreement or change the nature of our business.

Share-Based Incentive Compensation—On June 13, 2016, our shareholders approved the adoption of our 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (“Incentive Plan”). On January 10, 2017, the SEC issued an order approving the Incentive Plan and certain awards intended to be made thereunder. The Incentive Plan is intended to promote the interests of the Fund by encouraging officers, employees, and directors of the Fund and its affiliates to acquire or increase their equity interest in the Fund and to provide a means whereby they may develop a proprietary interest in the development and financial success of the Fund, to encourage them to remain with and devote their best efforts to the business of the Fund, thereby advancing the interests of the Fund and its stockholders. The Incentive Plan is also intended to enhance the ability of the Fund and its affiliates to attract and retain the services of individuals who are essential for the growth and profitability of the Fund. The Incentive Plan permits the award of restricted stock as well as common stock purchase options. The maximum number of shares of common stock that are subject to awards granted under the Incentive Plan is 2,434,728 shares. The term of the Incentive Plan will expire on June 13, 2026. On March 17, 2017, we granted awards of restricted stock under the Incentive Plan to certain of our directors and executive officers in the aggregate amount of 844,500 shares. The awards are each subject to a vesting requirement over a 3-year period unless the recipient thereof is terminated or removed from their position as a director or executive officer without “cause”, or as a result of constructive termination, as such terms are defined in the respective award agreements entered into by each of the recipients and the Fund. As of September 30, 2019, 280,000 shares of restricted stock which were granted pursuant to the Incentive Plan, remained unvested. We account for share-based compensation using the fair value method, as prescribed by ASC 718. Accordingly, for restricted stock awards, we measure the grant date fair value based upon the market price of our common stock on the date of the grant and amortize the fair value of the awards as share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting term. We recorded compensation expense of $0.08 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively and $0.2 million and $0.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, in connection with these awards.

Equus Energy was formed in November 2011 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund to make investments in companies in the energy sector, with particular emphasis on income-producing oil & gas properties. In December 2011, we contributed $250,000 to the capital of Equus Energy. On December 27, 2012, we invested an additional $6.8 million in Equus Energy for the purpose of additional working capital and to fund the purchase of $6.6 million in working interests, which presently comprise 141 producing and non-producing oil and gas wells. The working interests include associated development rights of approximately 21,520 acres situated on 11 separate properties in Texas and Oklahoma. The working interests range from a de minimus amount to 50% of the leasehold that includes these wells.

The wells are operated by a number of experienced operators, including Chevron USA, Inc., which has operating responsibility for all of Equus Energy’s 40 well interests located in the Conger Field, a productive oil and gas field on the edge of the Permian Basin that has experienced successful gas and hydrocarbon extraction in multiple formations. Equus Energy, which holds a 50% working interest in each of these Conger Field wells, is working with Chevron in a recompletion program of existing Conger Field wells to the Wolfcamp formation, a zone containing oil as well as gas and natural gas liquids. Part of Equus Energy’s acreage rights described above also includes a 50% working interest in possible new drilling to the base of the Canyon formation on 2,400 acres in the Conger Field. Also included in the interests acquired by Equus Energy are working interests of 7.5% and 2.5% in the Burnell and North Pettus Units, respectively, which collectively comprise approximately 13,000 acres located in the area known as the “Eagle Ford Shale” play.

Revenue and Income—During the three months ended September 30, 2019, Equus Energy’s revenue, operating revenue ($0.12 million) less direct operating expenses ($0.2 million), and net loss were $0.1 million,($0.08) million, and ($0.2) million, respectively, as compared to revenue, operating revenue ($0.28 million) less direct operating expenses ($0.22 million), and net loss which $0.3 million, $0.06 million, and ($0.09) million, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2018.

Capital Expenditures—During the three months ended September 30, 2019 and September 30, 2018, Equus Energy’s investment, respectively, in capital expenditures for small repairs and improvements was not significant. The operators of the various working interest communicated their intent to wait until 2020, commensurate with an anticipated gradual rise in the price of crude oil, to commence new drilling and recompletion projects.

We do not consolidate Equus Energy or its wholly-owned subsidiaries and accordingly only the value of our investment in Equus Energy is included on our balance sheets. Our investment in Equus Energy is valued in accordance with our normal valuation procedures and is based in part on using a discounted cash flow analysis based on a reserve report prepared for Equus Energy by Lee Keeling & Associates, Inc., an independent petroleum engineering firm, the transactions and values of comparable companies in this sector, and the estimated value of leasehold mineral interests associated with the acreage held by Equus Energy. A valuation of Equus Energy was performed by a third-party valuation firm, who recommended a value range of Equus Energy consistent with the fair value determined by our Management (See Schedule of Investments).

Below is summarized consolidated financial information for Equus Energy as of September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 and for the nine months September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively (in thousands):

EQUUS ENERGY, LLC

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

Revenue and direct operating expenses for the various oil and gas assets included in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations below represent the net collective working and revenue interests acquired by Equus Energy. The revenue and direct operating expenses presented herein relate only to the interests in the producing oil and natural gas properties and do not represent all of the oil and natural gas operations of all of these properties. Direct operating expenses include lease operating expenses and production and other related taxes. General and administrative expenses, depletion, depreciation and amortization (“DD&A”) of oil and gas properties and federal and state taxes have been excluded from direct operating expenses in the accompanying statements of operations because the allocation of certain expenses would be arbitrary and would not be indicative of what such costs would have been had Equus Energy been operated as a stand-alone entity. The statements of operations presented are not indicative of the financial condition or results of operations of Equus Energy on a go forward basis due to changes in the business and the omission of various operating expenses.

EQUUS ENERGY, LLC

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

EQUUS ENERGY, LLC

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Critical Accounting Policies for Equus Energy—Equus Energy and its wholly-owned subsidiary EQS Energy Holdings, Inc. (collectively, “the Company”) follow the Full Cost Method of Accounting for oil and gas properties. Under the full cost method, all costs associated with property acquisition, exploration, and development activities are capitalized. Capitalized costs include lease acquisitions, geological and geophysical work, delay rentals, costs of drilling, completing and equipping successful and unsuccessful oil and gas wells and related costs. Gains or losses are normally not recognized on the sale or other disposition of oil and gas properties. Gains or losses are normally reflected as an adjustment to the full cost pool.

The capitalized costs of oil and gas properties, plus estimated future development costs relating to proved reserves and estimated cost of dismantlement and abandonment, net of salvage value, are amortized on a unit-of-production method over the estimated productive life of the proved oil and gas reserves. Unevaluated oil and gas properties are excluded from this calculation. Depletion, depreciation, amortization and accretion expense for the Company’s oil and gas properties totaled $0.08 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively and $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and September 30, 2018, respectively .

Capitalized oil and gas property costs are limited to an amount (the ceiling limitation) equal to the sum of the following:

When it is determined that oil and gas property costs exceed the ceiling limitation, an impairment charge is recorded to reduce its carrying value to the ceiling limitation. The Company did not recognize an impairment loss on its oil and gas properties during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and September 30, 2018, respectively.

The costs of certain unevaluated leasehold acreage and certain wells being drilled are not amortized. The Company excludes all costs until proved reserves are found or until it is determined that the costs are impaired. Costs not amortized are periodically assessed for possible impairment or reduction in value. If a reduction in value has occurred, costs being amortized are increased accordingly.

Revenue Recognition—Revenue recognized for oil and natural gas sales under the sales method of accounting. Under this method, revenue is recognized on production as it is taken and delivered to its purchasers. The volumes sold may be more or less than the volumes entitled to, based on the owner’s net leasehold interest. These differences result from production imbalances, which are not significant, and are reflected as adjustments to proven reserves and future cash flows in the unaudited consolidated financial information included herein.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization—The Company employs the “Units of Production” method in calculating depletion of its proved oil and gas properties, wherein capitalized costs, as adjusted for future development costs and asset retirement obligations, are amortized over the total estimated proved reserves.

Income Taxes—A limited liability company is not subject to the payment of federal income taxes as components of its income and expenses flow through directly to the members. However, the Company is subject to certain state income taxes. Texas margin tax applies to legal entities conducting business in Texas. The margin tax is based on our Texas sourced taxable margin. The tax is calculated by applying a tax rate to a base that considers both revenue and expenses and therefore has the characteristics of an income tax. Taxable Subsidiaries may generate income tax expense because of the Taxable Subsidiaries’ ownership of the portfolio companies. We reflect any such income tax expense on our Statements of Operations. The Company had no federal income tax expense for the three and nine month periods ending September 30, 2019 and 2018.

Asset Retirement Obligations—The fair value of asset retirement obligations are recorded in the period in which they are incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made, and the corresponding cost is capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. The fair value of the asset retirement obligation is measured using expected future cash outflows discounted at the Company’s credit- adjusted risk-free interest rate. Fair value, to the extent possible, should include a market risk premium for unforeseeable circumstances. No market risk premium was included in the Company’s asset retirement obligation fair value estimate since a reasonable estimate could not be made. The liability is accreted to its then present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depleted or amortized over the estimated recoverable reserves using the units-of-production method.

Management performed an evaluation of the Fund’s activity through the date the financial statements were issued, noting the following subsequent events:

On October 5, 2019, we sold $27.0 million of U.S. Treasury Bills we acquired on margin in September 2019 and used the proceeds to repay the margin loan.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Equus Total Return, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our,” “Equus,” and the “Fund”), a Delaware corporation, was formed on August 16, 1991. Our shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ‘EQS’. Our investment strategy seeks to provide the highest total return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income.

The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Quarterly Report and in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto in the Fund’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, as filed with the SEC. In addition, some of the statements in this report constitute forward-looking statements. The matters discussed in this Quarterly Report, as well as in future oral and written statements by management of Equus, that are forward-looking statements are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. We generally identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar words. Important assumptions include our ability to originate new investments, achieve certain margins and levels of profitability, and the availability of additional capital. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of a forward-looking statement in this Quarterly Report should not be regarded as a representation by us that our plans or objectives will be achieved. The forward- looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report include statements as to:

There are a number of important risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. For a discussion of factors that could cause our actual results to differ from forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report, please see the discussion in Part II, “Item 1A. Risk Factors”, and in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this Quarterly Report relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date this Quarterly Report is filed with the SEC.

We attempt to maximize the return to stockholders in the form of current investment income and long-term capital gains by investing in the debt and equity securities of companies with a total enterprise value of between $5.0 million and $75.0 million, although we may engage in transactions with smaller or larger investee companies from time to time. We seek to invest primarily in companies pursuing growth either through acquisition or organically, leveraged buyouts, management buyouts and recapitalizations of existing businesses or special situations. Our income-producing investments consist principally of debt securities including subordinate debt, debt convertible into common or preferred stock, or debt combined with warrants and common and preferred stock. Debt and preferred equity financing may also be used to create long- term capital appreciation through the exercise and sale of warrants received in connection with the financing. We seek to achieve capital appreciation by making investments in equity and equity-oriented securities issued by privately-owned companies (and smaller public companies) in transactions negotiated directly with such companies. Given market conditions over the past several years and the performance of our portfolio, our management and Board of Directors believe it is prudent to continue to review alternatives to refine and further clarify the current strategies.

We elected to be treated as a BDC under the 1940 Act. We currently qualify as a RIC for federal income tax purposes and, therefore, are not required to pay corporate income taxes on any income or gains that we distribute to our stockholders. We have certain wholly owned Taxable Subsidiaries each of which holds one or more portfolio investments listed on our Schedules of Investments. The purpose of these Taxable Subsidiaries is to permit us to hold certain income-producing investments or portfolio companies organized as limited liability companies, or LLCs, (or other forms of pass-through entities) and still satisfy the RIC tax requirement that at least 90% of our gross revenue for income tax purposes must consist of investment income. Absent the Taxable Subsidiaries, a portion of the gross income of these income- producing investments or of any LLC (or other pass-through entity) portfolio investment, as the case may be, would flow through directly to us for the 90% test. To the extent that such income did not consist of investment income, it could jeopardize our ability to qualify as a RIC and, therefore, cause us to incur significant federal income taxes. The income of the LLCs (or other pass-through entities) owned by Taxable Subsidiaries is taxed to the Taxable Subsidiaries and does not flow through to us, thereby helping us preserve our RIC status and resultant tax advantages. We do not consolidate the Taxable Subsidiaries for income tax purposes and they may generate income tax expense because of the Taxable Subsidiaries’ ownership of the portfolio investments. We reflect any such income tax expense on our Statements of Operations.

Plan of Reorganization

Plan of Reorganization and Share Exchange with MVC Capital—On May 14, 2014, we announced that the Fund intended to effect a reorganization pursuant to Section 2(a)(33) of the 1940 Act (hereinafter, the “Plan of Reorganization”). As a first step to consummating the Plan of Reorganization, we sold to MVC Capital, Inc. (“MVC”) 2,112,000 newly-issued shares of the Fund’s common stock in exchange for 395,839 shares of MVC (such transaction is hereinafter referred to as the “Share Exchange”). MVC is a BDC traded on the NYSE that provides long-term debt and equity investment capital to fund growth, acquisitions and recapitalizations of companies in a variety of industries. The Share Exchange was calculated based on the Fund’s and MVC’s respective net asset value per share. At the time of the Share Exchange, the number of MVC shares received by Equus represented approximately 1.73% of MVC’s total outstanding shares of common stock.

Pursuant to the terms of a Share Exchange Agreement, dated May 12, 2014, entered into by Equus and MVC which memorialized the Share Exchange, we intend to finalize the Plan of Reorganization by pursuing a merger or consolidation with MVC or an operating company, which operating company may be a subsidiary or portfolio company of MVC. Absent Equus merging or consolidating with/into MVC or a subsidiary thereof, our current intention is for Equus to (i) terminate its election to be classified as a BDC under the 1940 Act, and (ii) be restructured as a publicly-traded operating company focused on the energy, natural resources, technology, and/or financial services sector. While we are presently evaluating various opportunities that could enable us to complete our Plan of Reorganization, we cannot assure you that we will be able to do so within any particular time period or at all. Moreover, we cannot assure you that the terms of any such transaction that would embody a “Consolidation”, as such term is defined in our Plan of Reorganization, would be acceptable to us.

Authorization to Withdraw BDC Election—On January 21, 2019, holders of a majority of the outstanding common stock of the Fund approved our cessation as a BDC under the 1940 Act and authorized our Board to cause the Fund’s withdrawal of its election to be classified as a BDC, effective as of a date designated by the Board and our Chief Executive Officer. Although this authorization, which was given as a consequence of our Plan of Reorganization, expired on July 31, 2019, we expect to receive an additional authorization from our stockholders in the future. Notwithstanding any such authorization to withdraw our BDC election, we will not submit any such withdrawal unless and until Equus has entered into a definitive agreement to effect a “Consolidation”, as such term is defined in our Plan of Reorganization. Further, even if we are again authorized to withdraw our election as a BDC, we will require a subsequent affirmative vote from holders of a majority of our outstanding voting shares to enter into any such definitive agreement or change the nature of our business.

2016 Equity Incentive Plan

On June 13, 2016, our shareholders approved the adoption of our 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (“Incentive Plan”). On January 10, 2017, the SEC issued an order approving the Incentive Plan and certain awards intended to be made thereunder. The Incentive Plan is intended to promote the interests of the Fund by encouraging officers, employees, and directors of the Fund and its affiliates to acquire or increase their equity interest in the Fund and to provide a means whereby they may develop a proprietary interest in the development and financial success of the Fund, to encourage them to remain with and devote their best efforts to the business of the Fund, thereby advancing the interests of the Fund and its stockholders. The Incentive Plan is also intended to enhance the ability of the Fund and its affiliates to attract and retain the services of individuals who are essential for the growth and profitability of the Fund. The Incentive Plan permits the award of restricted stock as well as common stock purchase options. The maximum number of shares of common stock that are subject to awards granted under the Incentive Plan is 2,434,728 shares. The term of the Incentive Plan will expire on June 13, 2026. On March 17, 2017, we granted awards of restricted stock under the Plan to certain of our directors and executive officers in the aggregate amount of 844,500 shares. The awards are each subject to a vesting requirement over a 3-year period unless the recipient thereof is terminated or removed from their position as a director or executive officer without “cause”, or as a result of constructive termination, as such terms are defined in the respective award agreements entered into by each of the recipients and the Fund. We recorded compensation expense of $0.08 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, in connection with these awards..

Critical Accounting Policies

See the Fund’s Critical Accounting Policies from the disclosure set forth in the Fund’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Current Market Conditions

The U.S. economy expanded at an annualized rate of 1.9% during the third quarter of 2019, following growth of 2.0% and 3.1% during the first and second quarters, respectively, of 2019 and an increase of 2.9% for all of 2018. The decrease in GDP during the third quarter of 2019 was principally due to decreased exports, higher inventories, lower fixed residential and nonresidential investment, and increased imports. Despite rising trade tensions, the Conference Board Economic Forecast projects GDP growth in the fourth quarter of 2019 to be 1.9% and thereafter 2.0% for 2020. The U.S. unemployment rate is near a 50-year low, continuing to present a tight labor market for employers, but weakening business investment and slightly diminished consumer spending suggest a weaker long-term outlook for the economy. Meanwhile, housing starts and building permits slowed during 2018 and trended downward during the first six months of 2019 before increasing in the third quarter of 2019, which has contrasted with strong growth in existing home sales during the same period. (Sources: U.S. Dept. of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Conference Board Leading Economic Index).

Merger and acquisition activity was strong in 2018, with $3.5 trillion in worldwide transactions consummated during the year. Although such activity slowed during the first quarter of 2019, it accelerated during the second quarter of 2019, resulting in approximately $2 trillion in global transactions announced during the six-month period with another $2.4 trillion in undeployed capital, $732 billion of which is held by private equity firms. In the United States, merger and acquisition activity was up 19% in the first six months of 2019 as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2018. Private equity funds raised almost $52 billion during the first half of 2019, down 19% from the comparable period in 2018, and did so in an increasingly smaller number of vehicles, resulting in larger fund sizes overall. Total investments during the quarter were approximately $159 billion, a decrease of 4% from the second quarter of 2018. Data for the third quarter of 2019 have not yet been released but larger amounts of capital have pushed median valuation multiples to 11x EBITDA during the first six months of 2019, constraining investment yields (Sources: Institutional Investor; The New York Times; The Wall Street Journal, PitchBook).

During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, our net asset value increased from $3.22 per share to $3.63 per share, an increase of 12.7%. As of September 30, 2019, our common stock is trading at a 55.6% discount to our net asset value as compared to 39.1% as of December 31, 2018.

Over the past several years, we have executed certain initiatives to enhance liquidity, achieve a lower operational cost structure, provide more assistance to portfolio companies and realize certain of our portfolio investments. Specifically, we changed the composition of our Board of Directors and Management, terminated certain of our follow-on investments, internalized the management of the Fund, suspended our managed distribution policy, modified our investment strategy to pursue shorter term liquidation opportunities, pursued non-cash investment opportunities, and sold certain of our legacy and underperforming investment holdings. We believe these actions continue to be necessary to protect capital and liquidity in order to preserve and enhance shareholder value. Because our Management is internalized, certain of our expenses should not increase commensurate with an increase in the size of the Fund and, therefore, to the extent we remain a BDC, we expect to achieve efficiencies in our cost structure if we are able to grow the Fund.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We generate cash primarily from maturities, sales of securities and borrowings, as well as capital gains realized upon the sale of portfolio investments. We use cash primarily to make additional investments, either in new companies or as follow-on investments in the existing portfolio companies and to pay the dividends to our stockholders.

Because of the nature and size of the portfolio investments, we may periodically borrow funds to make qualifying investments to maintain our tax status as a RIC. We often borrow such funds by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. There is no assurance that such arrangement will be available in the future. If we are unable to borrow funds to make qualifying investments, Equus may no longer qualify as a RIC. The Fund would then be subject to corporate income tax on its net investment income and realized capital gains, and distributions to stockholders would be subject to income tax as ordinary dividends.

The Fund has the ability to borrow funds and issue forms of senior securities representing indebtedness or stock, such as preferred stock, subject to certain restrictions. Net taxable investment income and net taxable realized gains from the sales of portfolio investments are intended to be distributed at least annually, to the extent such amounts are not reserved for payment of expenses and contingencies or to make follow-on or new investments.

We reserve the right to retain net long-term capital gains in excess of net short-term capital losses for reinvestment or to pay contingencies and expenses. Such retained amounts, if any, will be taxable to the Fund as long-term capital gains and stockholders will be able to claim their proportionate share of the federal income taxes paid on such gains as a credit against their own federal income tax liabilities. Stockholders will also be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis of their Fund shares by the difference between their undistributed capital gains and their tax credit.

We are evaluating the impact of current market conditions on our portfolio company valuations and their ability to provide current income. We believe we have followed valuation techniques in a reasonably consistent manner; however, we are cognizant of current market conditions that might affect future valuations of portfolio securities. In view of our present status as a BDC and our anticipated transformation into an operating company, we believe that our operating cash flow and cash on hand will be sufficient to meet operating requirements and to finance routine capital expenditures through the next twelve months.

Results of Operations

Investment Income and Expense

Net investment loss was $0.8 million and $0.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and unchanged at $2.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and September 30, 2018, respectively.

Investment income was $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively and $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018. The decrease is due to the decline of interest-bearing investments. Total expense was $0.9 million and $0.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and $2.8 million and $3.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. This decrease was mainly due to the decline in professional fees.

Realized Gains and Losses on Sales of Portfolio Securities

During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we realized a loss of $2.8 million from the dissolution and liquidation of Equus Media Development Company LLC (“EMDC”).

During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we realized a gain of $4.0 thousand from the sale of temporary cash investments.

Changes in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation of Portfolio Securities

During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we recorded a net change in unrealized appreciation of $10.7 million, to a net unrealized appreciation of $27.7 million. Such change in unrealized appreciation resulted primarily from the following changes:

During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we recorded a net change in unrealized appreciation of $5.9 million, to a net unrealized appreciation of $19.3 million. Such change in unrealized appreciation resulted primarily from the following changes:

Dividends

We will pay out net investment income and/or realized capital gains, if any, on an annual basis as required under the Investment Company Act of 1940.

Portfolio Securities

During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we received dividends in the form of additional shares of MVC in the amount of $0.2 million.

Also during the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we dissolved EMDC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund and transferred EMDC’s assets, consisting of approximately $211,000 in cash and various creative entertainment properties, to the Fund.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we received dividends in the form of additional shares of MVC in the amount of $0.2 million.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, our investment in 5th Element Tracking, LLC, consisting of a promissory note in the face amount of $0.9 million, became due. On August 13, 2018, we issued a demand for payment of all outstanding principal and accrued and outstanding interest on the note, and on November 8, 2018, we filed a complaint against the guarantor of the note to enforce collection. We have assessed the fair value of our holdings and determined that the event of default has not indicated a decrease in fair value below the carrying cost of the investment, based on the security interests we hold and the relative timing of collection.

Subsequent Events

We performed an evaluation of the Fund’s activity through the date the financial statements were issued, noting the following subsequent events:

On October 5, 2019, we sold $27.0 million of U.S. Treasury Bills we acquired on margin in September 2019 and used the proceeds to repay the margin loan.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

We are subject to financial market risks, including changes in interest rates with respect to investments in debt securities and outstanding debt payable, as well as changes in marketable equity security prices. In the future, we may invest in companies outside the United States, including in Europe and Asia, which would give rise to exposure to foreign currency value fluctuations. We do not use derivative financial instruments to mitigate any of these risks. The return on investments is generally not affected by foreign currency fluctuations.

Our investments in portfolio securities consist of some fixed-rate debt securities. Since the debt securities are generally priced at a fixed rate, changes in interest rates do not directly affect interest income. In addition, changes in market interest rates are not typically a significant factor in the determination of fair value of these debt securities, since the securities are generally held to maturity. We determine their fair values based on the terms of the relevant debt security and the financial condition of the issuer.

A major portion of our investment portfolio consists of debt and equity investments in private companies. Modest changes in public market equity prices generally do not significantly impact the estimated fair value of these investments. However, significant changes in market equity prices can have a longer-term effect on valuations of private companies, which could affect the carrying value and the amount and timing of gains or losses realized on these investments. A small portion of the investment portfolio could also consist of common stock in publicly traded companies. These investments are directly exposed to equity price risk, in that a hypothetical ten percent change in these equity prices would result in a similar percentage change in the fair value of these securities.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Fund in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information 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.

Our management, with the participation of our Fund’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operations of the Fund’s “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of September 30, 2019. Based on their evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Fund’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level. There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2019, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Part II. Other Information

Item 1. Legal Proceedings 

Shareholder Complaint—On November 16, 2016, Samuel Zalmanoff filed a lawsuit against the Fund and members of the Board of Directors in the Court of Chancery in the State of Delaware. The lawsuit was filed in connection with the Fund’s 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (“Incentive Plan”) which was adopted by the Board of Directors on April 15, 2016, approved by the Equus shareholders on June 13, 2016, and approved, with certain standard exceptions, by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 10, 2017. Mr. Zalmanoff’s complaint, which purports to be on behalf of all non-affiliate Equus shareholders entitled to vote for the Incentive Plan, purports to allege a breach by the Board of Directors of its fiduciary duties of disclosure in connection with the Incentive Plan, and seeks an order from the court: (i) enjoining implementation of the Incentive Plan, (ii) requiring the Fund to revise its disclosures relating to the Incentive Plan, and (iii) for an award of costs, attorneys’ fees, and expenses. We believe that this lawsuit, and the allegations included therein, are without merit. On September 22, 2017, we filed a motion for summary judgment regarding this action, which was granted by the Chancery Court on November 13, 2018. Mr. Zalmanoff appealed the Chancery Court ruling to the Delaware Supreme Court. On May 16, 2019, the Delaware Supreme Court affirmed the Chancery Court decision and terminated the proceedings.

From time to time, the Fund is also a party to certain proceedings incidental to the normal course of our business including the enforcement of our rights under contracts with our portfolio companies. While the outcome of these legal proceedings cannot at this time be predicted with certainty, we do not expect that these proceedings will have a material effect upon the Fund’s financial condition or results of operations.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

In connection with our efforts to convert Equus into an operating company in furtherance of our Plan of Reorganization, we may be subject to a number of risks associated with this process, the transactions that would embody a Consolidation of Equus with another company, as well as specific risks associated with the commercial enterprise with which Equus would seek to combine itself. We intend to identify, as will be reasonably possible, such risks and include the same in our subsequent filings and reports with the Commission.

Readers should carefully consider these risks and all other information contained in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, including the Fund’s financial statements and the related notes thereto. Although there have been no changes to the risk factors facing the Fund since the filing of our Form 10-K, the risks and uncertainties described therein are not the only ones facing the Fund.

Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us, or not presently deemed material by us, may also impair our operations and performance.

Item 6. Exhibits

SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has caused this report to be signed by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Dated: November 13, 2019