UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1934.
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017
or
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1934.
For the transition period from to .
Commission File Number 001-35500
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
26-0174894
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
333 South Grand Avenue, 28th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Telephone: (213) 830-6300
(Address, zip code, and telephone number, including
area code, of registrant’s principal executive offices)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Name of each exchange on which registered
Class A units representing limited liability company interests
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 and 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter periods 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 and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File
required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant
was required to submit and post such files). Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein and
will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this
Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.
See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:
Large accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
Emerging growth company
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 (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes
No
The aggregate market value of the Class A units of the registrant held by non-affiliates as of June 30, 2017 was approximately $3.0 billion.
As of February 12, 2018, there were 70,297,761 Class A units and 85,968,924 Class B units of the registrant outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
None
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
PART I.
Item 1.
Business ....................................................................................................................................
Item 1A. Risk Factors ...............................................................................................................................
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments ......................................................................................................
Properties ..................................................................................................................................
Item 2.
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings .....................................................................................................................
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures ............................................................................................................
PART II.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases
of Equity Securities .................................................................................................................
Selected Financial Data .............................................................................................................
Item 6.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ......
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk ......................................................
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data .........................................................................
Item 8.
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure .....
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures ...........................................................................................................
Item 9B. Other Information .......................................................................................................................
PART III.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance .........................................................
Item 11. Executive Compensation ...........................................................................................................
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder
Matters ....................................................................................................................................
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence ..........................
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services ....................................................................................
PART IV.
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules ...................................................................................
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary ..................................................................................................................
Signatures
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S.
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), which reflect our current views with respect to, among other things, our
future results of operations and financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements
by words such as “anticipate,” “approximately,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,”
“may,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “seek,” “should,” “will” and “would” or the negative version of these
words or other comparable or similar words. These statements identify prospective information. Important factors
could cause actual results to differ, possibly materially, from those indicated in these statements. Forward-looking
statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and expectations of our future performance, taking into account
all information currently available to us. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and
assumptions relating to our operations, financial results, financial condition, business prospects, growth strategy
and liquidity, including, but not limited to, changes in our anticipated revenue and income, which are inherently
volatile; changes in the value of our investments; the pace of our raising of new funds; changes in assets under
management; the timing and receipt of, and impact of taxes on, carried interest; distributions from and liquidation of
our existing funds; the amount and timing of distributions on our Class A units; changes in our operating or other
expenses; the degree to which we encounter competition; and general political, economic and market conditions.
The factors listed in the item captioned “Risk Factors” in this annual report provide examples of risks, uncertainties
and events that may cause our actual results to differ materially from the expectations described in our forward-
looking statements.
Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this annual report. Except as required by law, we
do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of
new information, future developments or otherwise.
MARKET AND INDUSTRY DATA
This annual report includes market and industry data and forecasts that are derived from independent
reports, publicly available information, various industry publications, other published industry sources and our
internal data, estimates and forecasts. Independent reports, industry publications and other published industry
sources generally indicate that the information contained therein was obtained from sources believed to be reliable.
We have not commissioned, nor are we affiliated with, any of the sources cited herein.
Our internal data, estimates and forecasts are based upon information obtained from investors in our funds,
partners, trade and business organizations, and other contacts in the markets in which we operate and our
management’s understanding of industry conditions.
3
In this annual report, unless the context otherwise requires:
“Oaktree,” “OCG,” “we,” “us,” “our” or “our company” refers to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC and, where
applicable, its subsidiaries and affiliates.
“Oaktree Operating Group,” or “Operating Group,” refers collectively to the entities in which we have a
minority economic interest and indirect control that either (i) act as or control the general partners and investment
advisers of our funds or (ii) hold interests in other entities or investments generating income for us.
“OCGH” refers to Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, which holds an
interest in the Oaktree Operating Group and all of our Class B units.
“OCGH unitholders” refers collectively to our senior executives, current and former employees and certain
other investors who hold interests in the Oaktree Operating Group through OCGH.
“2007 Private Offering” refers to the sale completed on May 25, 2007 of 23,000,000 of our Class A units to
qualified institutional buyers (as defined in the Securities Act) in a transaction exempt from the registration
requirements of the Securities Act. Prior to our initial public offering, these Class A units traded on a private over-
the-counter market developed by Goldman, Sachs & Co. for tradable unregistered equity securities.
“assets under management,” or “AUM,” generally refers to the assets we manage and equals the NAV (as
defined below) of the assets we manage, the leverage on which management fees are charged and the undrawn
capital that we are entitled to call from investors in our funds pursuant to their capital commitments. For our
collateralized loan obligation vehicles (“CLOs”), AUM represents the aggregate par value of collateral assets and
principal cash, and for our publicly-traded BDCs, gross assets (including assets acquired with leverage), net of
cash. Our AUM amounts include AUM for which we charge no management fees. Our definition of AUM is not
based on any definition contained in our operating agreement or the agreements governing the funds that we
manage. Our calculation of AUM and the two AUM-related metrics described below may not be directly comparable
to the AUM metrics of other investment managers.
•
•
“management fee-generating assets under management,” or “management fee-generating AUM,” is a
forward-looking metric and reflects the beginning AUM on which we will earn management fees in the
following quarter, as more fully described in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations—Non-GAAP Measures—Assets Under Management—
Management Fee-generating Assets Under Management.”
“incentive-creating assets under management,” or “incentive-creating AUM,” refers to the AUM that may
eventually produce incentive income, as more fully described in “Management’s Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Non-GAAP Measures—Assets Under
Management—Incentive-creating Assets Under Management.”
“consolidated funds” refers to the funds and CLOs that Oaktree is required to consolidate as of the
applicable reporting date.
“funds” refers to investment funds and, where applicable, CLOs and separate accounts that are managed
by us or our subsidiaries.
“initial public offering” refers to the listing of our Class A units on the New York Stock Exchange on April 12,
2012 whereby Oaktree sold 7,888,864 Class A units and selling unitholders sold 954,159 Class A units.
“Intermediate Holding Companies” collectively refers to the subsidiaries wholly owned by us.
“net asset value,” or “NAV,” refers to the value of all the assets of a fund (including cash and accrued
interest and dividends) less all liabilities of the fund (including accrued expenses and any reserves established by
us, in our discretion, for contingent liabilities) without reduction for accrued incentives (fund level) because they are
reflected in the partners’ capital of the fund.
“Relevant Benchmark” refers, with respect to:
•
•
our U.S. High Yield Bond strategy, to the Citigroup U.S. High Yield Cash-Pay Capped Index;
our Global High Yield Bond strategy, to an Oaktree custom global high yield index that represents 60%
ICE BofAML High Yield Master II Constrained Index and 40% ICE BofAML Global Non-Financial High
4
Yield European Issuers 3% Constrained, ex-Russia Index – USD Hedged from inception through
December 31, 2012, and the ICE BofAML Non-Financial Developed Markets High Yield Constrained
Index – USD Hedged thereafter;
our European High Yield Bond strategy, to the ICE BofAML Global Non-Financial High Yield European
Issuers excluding Russia 3% Constrained Index (USD Hedged);
our U.S. Senior Loan strategy (with the exception of the closed-end funds), to the Credit Suisse
Leveraged Loan Index;
our European Senior Loan strategy, to the Credit Suisse Western European Leveraged Loan Index
(EUR Hedged);
our U.S. Convertible Securities strategy, to an Oaktree custom convertible index that represents the
Credit Suisse Convertible Securities Index from inception through December 31, 1999, the Goldman
Sachs/Bloomberg Convertible 100 Index from January 1, 2000 through June 30, 2004, and the ICE
BofAML All U.S. Convertibles Index thereafter;
our non-U.S. Convertible Securities strategy, to an Oaktree custom non-U.S. convertible index that
represents the JACI Global ex-U.S. (Local) Index from inception through December 31, 2014 and the
Thomson Reuters Global Focus ex-U.S. (USD hedged) Index thereafter;
our High Income Convertible Securities strategy, to the Citigroup U.S. High Yield Market Index; and
our Emerging Markets Equities strategy, to the Morgan Stanley Capital International Emerging Markets
Index (Net).
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
“senior executives” refers collectively to Howard S. Marks, Bruce A. Karsh, Jay S. Wintrob, John B. Frank
and Sheldon M. Stone.
“Sharpe Ratio” refers to a metric used to calculate risk-adjusted return. The Sharpe Ratio is the ratio of
excess return to volatility, with excess return defined as the return above that of a riskless asset (based on the
three-month U.S. Treasury bill, or for our European Senior Loan strategy, the Euro Overnight Index Average)
divided by the standard deviation of such return. A higher Sharpe Ratio indicates a return that is higher than would
be expected for the level of risk compared to the risk-free rate.
This annual report and its contents do not constitute and should not be construed as an offer of securities of
any Oaktree funds.
5
Part I.
Item 1. Business
Overview
Oaktree is a leader among global investment managers specializing in alternative investments, with $100.2
billion in assets under management (“AUM”) as of December 31, 2017. Our mission is to deliver superior
investment results with risk under control and to conduct our business with the highest integrity. We emphasize an
opportunistic, value-oriented and risk-controlled approach to investments in distressed debt, corporate debt
(including high yield debt and senior loans), control investing, convertible securities, real estate and listed equities.
Over three decades, we have developed a large and growing client base through our ability to identify and
capitalize on opportunities for attractive investment returns in less efficient markets.
Oaktree was formed in 1995 by a group of individuals who had been investing together since the mid-1980s.
Our founders were pioneers in the management of high yield bonds, convertible securities and distressed debt.
From those roots we have developed a diversified mix of specialized credit- and equity-oriented strategies. As of
December 31, 2017, we had 297 investment professionals, including 177 senior investment professionals with an
average 19 years of industry experience, who among them possess the investing, research, analytical, legal,
trading and other skills, as well as relationships and experience, that are necessary for long-term success in our
complex markets. Additionally, our compensation and other personnel practices foster a collaborative culture that
facilitates complementary investment strategies benefiting from shared knowledge and insights.
We manage assets on behalf of many of the most significant institutional investors in the world. Our
clientele includes 75 of the 100 largest U.S. pension plans, 38 state retirement plans in the United States, over 400
corporations and/or their pension funds, over 350 university, charitable and other endowments and foundations,
over 15 sovereign wealth funds and over 350 other non-U.S. institutional investors. As measured by AUM, our 25
largest clients participate in an average of four different investment strategies, reflecting the confidence engendered
by our consistent firm-wide investment approach. Approximately 16% of our AUM represents high-net-worth
individuals or intermediary distribution such as sub-advisory relationships with mutual funds and advisory
relationships with publicly-traded BDCs, indicating both the broadening appeal of alternatives to individual investors
and our heightened focus on that market.
Since Oaktree’s founding, our AUM has grown significantly, despite having distributed nearly $98 billion from
our closed-end funds. Although we limit our AUM when appropriate in order to better position us to generate
superior risk-adjusted returns, we have a long-term track record of organically growing our investment strategies,
increasing our AUM and expanding our client base. Over the last 10 years, we have raised gross capital averaging
$12.8 billion per year. As of December 31, 2017, uncalled capital commitments were $20.5 billion.
As shown in the chart below, our AUM has grown to $100.2 billion as of December 31, 2017 from $52.6
billion a decade earlier. Over the same period, management fee-generating assets under management
(“management fee-generating AUM”) grew from $41.2 billion to $80.6 billion, and incentive-creating assets under
management (“incentive-creating AUM”) increased from $14.8 billion to $32.7 billion.
Year-end AUM
6
We have systematically broadened employee ownership since our founding to help align interests among
employees, our clients and other stakeholders, as well as to facilitate a smooth generational transfer of
management and ownership. As of December 31, 2017, we had 930 employees, including 294 employee-owners,
with offices in 18 cities across 13 countries, of which the largest offices are in Los Angeles (headquarters), London,
New York City and Hong Kong.
Structure and Operation of Our Business
Our business is comprised of one segment, our investment management business, which consists of the
investment management services that we provide to our clients. Our revenue flows from the management fees and
incentive income generated by the funds that we manage, as well as the investment income earned from the
investments we make in our funds, third-party funds and other companies. The management fees that we receive
are based on the contractual terms of the relevant fund and are typically calculated as a fixed percentage of the
capital commitments (as adjusted for distributions during a fund’s liquidation period), drawn capital, cost basis or
NAV of the particular fund. Incentive income represents our share (typically 20%) of the investors’ profits in most of
the closed-end and evergreen funds. Investment income reflects the investment return on a mark-to-market basis
and our equity participation on the amounts that we invest in Oaktree and third-party funds, as well as in
collateralized loan obligation vehicles (“CLOs”) and other companies.
Structure of Funds
Closed-end Funds
Our closed-end funds are typically structured as limited partnerships that have a 10- or 11-year term and
have a specified period during which clients can subscribe for limited partnership interests in the fund. Once a
client is admitted as a limited partner, that client is required to contribute capital when called by us as the general
partner, and generally cannot withdraw its investment. Our closed-end funds have an investment period that
generally ranges from three to five years, during which we are permitted to call the committed capital of those funds
to make investments. As closed-end funds liquidate their investments, we typically distribute the proceeds to the
clients, although during the investment period we have the ability to retain or recall such proceeds to make
additional investments. Once we have committed to invest approximately 80% of the capital in a particular fund, we
typically raise a new fund in the same strategy, generally ensuring that we always have capital to invest in new
opportunities. We may also provide discretionary management services for clients within our closed-end fund
strategies through a separate account or through a limited partnership or limited liability company managed by us
with the client as the sole limited partner or sole non-managing member (a “fund-of-one”).
Our closed-end funds also include CLOs for which we serve as collateral manager. CLOs are structured
finance vehicles in which we make an investment and for which we are entitled to earn management fees.
Investors in CLOs are generally unable to redeem their interests until the CLO liquidates, is called or otherwise
terminates.
Open-end Funds
Our commingled open-end funds are typically structured as limited partnerships that are designed to admit
clients as new limited partners (or accept additional capital from existing limited partners) on an ongoing basis
during the fund’s life. Clients in commingled open-end funds typically contribute all of their committed capital upon
being admitted to the fund. These funds do not have an investment period and do not distribute proceeds of
realized investments to clients. We are permitted to commit the fund’s capital (including realized proceeds) to new
investments at any time during the fund’s life. Clients in commingled open-end funds generally have the right to
withdraw their capital from the fund on a monthly basis (with prior written notice of up to 90 days).
We also provide discretionary management services for clients through separate accounts within the open-
end fund strategies. Clients establish accounts with us by depositing funds or securities into accounts maintained
by qualified independent custodians and granting us discretionary authority to invest such funds pursuant to their
investment needs and objectives, as stated in an investment management agreement. Separate account clients
generally may terminate our services at any time by providing us with prior notice of 30 days or less.
Evergreen Funds
Our evergreen funds invest in marketable securities, private debt and equity, and in certain cases on a long
or short basis. As with open-end funds, commingled evergreen funds are designed to accept new capital on an
7
ongoing basis and generally do not distribute proceeds of realized investments to clients. We also provide
discretionary management services for clients through separate accounts or funds-of-one within our evergreen fund
strategies. Clients in evergreen funds are generally subject to a lock-up, which restricts their ability to withdraw
their entire capital for a certain period of time after their initial subscription. Evergreen funds include publicly-traded
business development companies (“BDCs”) managed by us.
Management Fees
We receive management fees monthly or quarterly based on annual fee rates for our investment advisory
services. The contractual terms of those management fees generally vary by fund structure. For most closed-end
funds, the management fee rate is applied against committed capital during the fund’s investment period and the
lesser of total funded capital or cost basis of assets in the liquidation period. However, for certain closed-end funds,
management fees during the investment period are calculated based on drawn capital or cost basis. Additionally,
for those closed-end funds for which management fees are based on committed capital, we may elect to delay the
start of the fund’s investment period and thus its full management fees, in which case we earn management fees
based on drawn capital, and in certain cases, outstanding borrowings under a fund-level credit facility made in lieu
of drawing capital, until we elect to start the fund’s investment period. Our right to receive management fees
typically ends after 10 or 11 years from either the initial closing date or the start of the investment period, even if
assets remain in the fund. In the case of CLOs, the management fee is based on the aggregate par value of
collateral assets and principal cash, as defined in the applicable CLO indentures, and a portion of the management
fees is dependent on the sufficiency of the particular vehicle’s cash flow. For open-end and evergreen funds, the
management fee is generally based on the NAV of the fund. For our publicly-traded BDCs, the management fee is
based on gross assets (including assets acquired with leverage), net of cash.
In the case of certain open-end fund accounts, we have the potential to earn performance-based fees,
typically in reference to a relevant benchmark index or hurdle rate, which are classified as management fees.
Management fees also include the quarterly incentive fees on investment income we earn from our publicly-traded
BDCs and certain evergreen fund accounts, which are recurring in nature. In a number of our strategies, we afford
certain investors in our funds or clients of separate accounts more favorable economic terms than other investors in
the same investment strategy, including with respect to management and performance-based fees, generally based
on the aggregate size of commitments of such investor or client, as applicable, to one or more funds or accounts
managed by us.
Incentive Income
We have the potential to earn incentive income from most of our closed-end funds, substantially all of which
follow the European-style waterfall, whereby we receive incentive income only after the fund first distributes all
contributed capital plus an annual preferred return, typically 8%. Once this occurs, we generally receive as
incentive income 80% of all distributions otherwise attributable to our investors, and those investors receive the
remaining 20% until we have received, as incentive income, 20% of all such distributions in excess of the
contributed capital from the inception of the fund. Thereafter, all such future distributions attributable to our
investors are distributed 80% to those investors and 20% to us as incentive income. As a result, we generally
receive incentive income, if any, in the latter part of a fund’s life, although earlier in a fund’s term we may receive tax
distributions, which we recognize as incentive income, to cover our allocable share of income taxes until we are
otherwise entitled to payment of incentive income.
We may also earn incentive income from certain evergreen funds on an annual basis, up to 20% of the
year’s profits, subject to either a high-water mark or hurdle rate. The high-water mark refers to the highest historical
NAV attributable to a limited partner’s account when either incentive income has been earned or the capital was
contributed.
Investment Income
We earn investment income from our corporate investments in funds and companies, with Oaktree-managed
funds constituting the majority of our corporate investments. Our investments in Oaktree-managed funds generally
fall into one of four categories: general partner interests in commingled funds or funds-of-one, investments in CLOs,
seed capital for new investment strategies prior to third-party capital raising, and corporate cash management. In
the case of general partner interests in our closed-end or evergreen funds, we typically invest the greater of 2.5% of
committed capital or $20 million in each fund, not to exceed $100 million per fund. For CLOs, we generally invest
5%, but no more than 10%, of the CLO’s total par value. For strategic or financial purposes, we may also invest in
a handful of third-party managed funds or companies.
8
Our investments in companies include a one-fifth equity stake in DoubleLine Capital LP and its affiliates
(collectively, “DoubleLine”), a Southern California-based investment management firm that sought our start-up
consulting and financial involvement shortly after its founding in December 2009 by Jeffrey Gundlach and others
who had previously worked together for over 20 years. From first managing assets in April 2010, DoubleLine has
grown to over $118 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2017. DoubleLine invests across fixed
income, equities and commodities through mutual funds, hedge funds and separate accounts.
Our Investment Approach
Our goal is excellence in investing. This means achieving attractive investment returns without
commensurate risk, an imbalance which can only be achieved in markets that are not “efficient.” Although we strive
for superior returns, our first priority is that our actions produce consistency, protection of capital and superior
performance in bad times. At our core, we are contrarian, value-oriented investors focused on buying securities
and companies at prices below their intrinsic value and selling or exiting those investments when they become fairly
or fully valued. We believe we can do this best by investing in markets where specialization and superior analysis
can offer an investing edge.
In our investing activities, we adhere to the following fundamental tenets:
• Focus on Risk-Adjusted Returns. Our primary goal is not simply to achieve superior investment
performance, but to do so with less-than-commensurate risk. We believe that the best long-term records
are built more through the avoidance of losses in bad times than the achievement of superior relative
returns in good times. Thus, rather than merely searching for prospective profits, we place the highest
priority on preventing losses. It is our overriding belief that, especially in the opportunistic markets in
which we work, “if we avoid the losers, the winners will take care of themselves.”
• Focus on Fundamental Analysis. We believe consistently excellent performance can only be achieved
through superior knowledge of companies and their securities, not from macro-forecasting. Therefore, we
employ a bottom-up approach to investing, based on proprietary, company-specific research. We do not
believe in the predictive ability required to correctly time markets. However, concern about the market
climate may cause us to tilt toward more defensive investments, increase selectivity or act more
deliberately. We feel skill and hard work can lead to a “knowledge advantage,” and thus to potentially
superior investment results, but not in the most efficient markets where larger numbers of participants
have roughly equal access to information. Therefore, we only invest in less efficient markets in which
dispassionate application of skill and effort should pay off for our clients. Our 297 investment
professionals have developed a deep and thorough understanding of a wide number of companies and
industries, providing us with a significant institutional knowledge base.
• Specialization. We offer a broad array of specialized investment strategies. We believe this offers the
surest path to the results we, and our clients, seek. Clients interested in a single investment strategy can
limit themselves to the risk exposure of that particular strategy, while clients interested in more than one
investment strategy can combine investments in our funds to achieve their desired mix. We also manage
multi-strategy fixed income portfolios for clients interested in gaining access to our deep expertise in
credit, in which we strategically allocate clients’ capital in a number of our liquid and illiquid credit
strategies. Our focus on specific strategies has allowed us to build investment teams with extensive
experience and expertise. At the same time, our teams access and leverage each other’s expertise,
affording us both the benefits of specialization and the strengths of a larger organization.
9
Our Asset Classes and Investment Strategies
We manage investments in a number of strategies across six asset classes: Corporate Debt, Convertible
Securities, Distressed Debt, Control Investing, Real Estate and Listed Equities. The diversity of our investment
strategies allows us to meet a wide range of investor needs suited for different market environments globally and,
for certain strategies, targeted regions, while providing us with a long-term diversified revenue base.
Our AUM by asset class and investment strategy as of December 31, 2017 is shown below:
Corporate Debt:
U.S. High Yield Bonds .......................................
Global High Yield Bonds ...................................
European High Yield Bonds ..............................
U.S. Senior Loans .............................................
European Senior Loans ....................................
European High Yield Bonds and Senior Loans .
Strategic Credit .................................................
U.S. Private Debt (1) ..........................................
European Private Debt ......................................
Emerging Markets Debt Total Return ................
Multi-Strategy Credit .........................................
Convertible Securities:
U.S. Convertibles ..............................................
Non-U.S. Convertibles ......................................
High Income Convertibles .................................
Distressed Debt:
Distressed Debt ................................................
Value Opportunities ...........................................
Emerging Markets Opportunities .......................
Strategy
Inception
1986
2010
1999
2007
2009
2016
2012
2001
2013
2015
2017
1987
1994
1989
1988
2007
2012
AUM
(in millions)
$ 16,432
4,403
1,013
7,724
3,760
354
5,086
1,385
1,141
538
853
Control Investing:
Special Situations (2) ..........................
European Principal ............................
Infrastructure Investing (3) ..................
Power Opportunities ..........................
Real Estate:
Real Estate Opportunities..................
Real Estate Debt ...............................
Real Estate Income (4) .......................
Listed Equities:
42,689
Emerging Markets Equities ................
Emerging Markets Absolute Return ...
Value Equities ....................................
Other .................................................
Strategy
Inception
1994
2006
2014
1999
1994
2012
2016
2011
1997
2012
AUM
(in millions)
$
3,806
6,258
2,583
1,858
14,505
5,801
2,527
635
8,963
4,055
114
461
65
4,695
Total ...................................................
$ 100,228
2,668
1,469
1,119
5,256
22,334
1,102
684
24,120
(1) Effective April 2017, the Mezzanine Finance strategy was renamed U.S. Private Debt, and includes our Mezzanine Finance and Direct
Lending funds.
(2) Effective November 2016, the Global Principal strategy was renamed Special Situations.
(3) Oaktree acquired the Highstar Capital team in 2014, which represents the inception date of this strategy. Highstar’s inception date was
2000.
(4) Effective August 2017, the Real Estate Value-Add strategy was renamed Real Estate Income.
We add new products when we identify a market with potential for attractive returns that we believe can be
exploited in a risk-controlled fashion, and where we have access to the investment talent capable of producing the
results we seek. Therefore, when adding new products, we consider it far more important to avoid mistakes than to
capture every opportunity. Our decision to create a new product is based on the identification of an inefficient
market with the potential for attractive returns, conviction that the market can be exploited in a limited-risk fashion,
and access to an investment team fully capable of producing the results we seek. Because of the high priority we
place on assuring that these requirements are met, we prefer that new products represent “step-outs” from our
current investment strategies into highly related fields that are managed by people with whom we have had
extensive first-hand experience or for whom we can validate qualifications.
10
Our asset classes and investment strategies are described below:
Corporate Debt
High Yield Bonds
We view high yield bond investing as the conscious bearing of risk for potential profit, and we follow a
defensive, downside-oriented strategy. Rather than stretching for higher yields, our primary focus is managing
credit risk and minimizing defaults. We have been managing high yield bonds for over three decades, starting in
January 1986 with U.S. high yield bonds, and over that time our U.S. strategy has experienced an average default
rate equal to approximately one-third the market as a whole. By controlling risk and preserving profits, we seek to
outperform our benchmark over full market cycles with less-than-commensurate risk.
We were among the first firms to establish a dedicated European high yield bond strategy, in 1999, when the
European high yield bond market was still in its nascent stage. In recent years, the European high yield bond
market has grown significantly, which has allowed us to construct diverse portfolios of bonds issued by credit-
worthy companies from a variety of sectors across developed European countries. The strategy is managed by a
dedicated team of leveraged-finance specialists in our London office and employs the same investment approach
successfully applied by our U.S. High Yield Bond team.
Over the years, many of our U.S. clients invested in our Expanded High Yield Fund, which included an
opportunistic allocation to our European High Yield Fund, to enhance performance and increase portfolio
diversification. As a natural extension, in 2010, we established the Global High Yield Bond strategy, a single
portfolio approach to investing in the lower-rated, yet credit-worthy performing bonds of North American and
European companies. In constructing our portfolios, we allocate between North America and Europe based on an
issue-by-issue relative value framework and market technicals. We also avoid concentrations by industry or
company because we believe thoughtful diversification is one of the most cost-effective means of mitigating the
impact of credit problems. By employing a highly disciplined, credit-intensive research approach to construct a
diversified, risk-controlled portfolio, the strategy targets the most attractive risk/return opportunities we identify
across the developed world.
Senior Loans
In September 2007, we formed the U.S. Senior Loan strategy to capitalize on the backlog of unsold or “hung”
bridge loans held by investment banks near the start of the global financial crisis. As the market environment
changed, we expanded the strategy to include investing in senior bank loans. The strategy typically invests in
broadly-syndicated, senior-secured loans or other senior, non-investment grade debt. In most instances, these
instruments constitute the most senior position in the capital structure of the borrower. We employ a fundamental,
bottom-up credit analysis when approaching potential loan investments. We rely on the same downside
sensitivities in our models and proprietary credit scoring matrix that have been successfully applied for over three
decades by our High Yield Bond team.
In May 2009, we capitalized on our experience in senior loans and European high yield bonds by forming the
European Senior Loan strategy to invest in senior secured loans in the growing European bank loan market. The
European Senior Loan strategy focuses on the senior-secured debt of issuers in Europe, and a majority of the
portfolio consists of floating-rate obligations. The strategy benefits from the experience and expertise of our
London-based European Credit team, which began investing in non-investment grade credit in 1999.
In 2012, we added a new product under the Senior Loan umbrella, Enhanced Income, to create a portfolio of
below-investment grade loans using a moderate amount of leverage. Building on our experience in Senior Loans
and Enhanced Income, in 2014 we added CLOs to our product offerings, both in the U.S. and Europe. CLOs are
securities backed by a diversified pool of below-investment grade loans sold to investors often seeking credit-rated
securities or the potential for higher-than-average returns. Both Enhanced Income and our fully-levered CLOs
utilize the same investment approach as our Senior Loan strategy, with an emphasis on capital preservation and
strong collateral coverage, collaborating with other investment teams across Oaktree’s broader credit platform to
maximize the potential of our investments.
11
European High Yield Bonds and Senior Loans
Drawing on over 15 years of experience and expertise in European non-investment grade credits, in 2016
we launched our step-out European High Yield Bond and Senior Loan strategy as a distinct strategy. The strategy
employs relative value analysis to construct optimized portfolios of European bonds and loans, focusing on the debt
of European issuers and companies with significant exposure to Europe, but may opportunistically invest in rated
CLO tranches, direct loans/private placements, and stressed loans and bonds. As an absolute return strategy, the
European High Yield Bond and Senior Loan strategy seeks to achieve superior risk-adjusted returns over credit
cycles through selective investment in high quality borrowers, with an emphasis on income and long-term growth.
Our flexibility to actively allocate between both asset classes provides us the opportunity to capitalize on differences
in their relative values.
Strategic Credit
We introduced Strategic Credit in 2012 as a step-out from our Distressed Debt strategy, to capture attractive
investment opportunities that appear to offer too little return for distressed debt investors, but may pose too much
uncertainty for high yield bond investors. The strategy seeks to achieve an attractive, unlevered total return by
investing in public and private performing debt of stressed U.S. and non-U.S. companies. Such investment
opportunities may arise from pricing inefficiencies that occur in the primary and secondary markets or from the
financing needs of healthy companies with limited access to traditional lenders or public markets. Typical
investments are in high yield bonds and senior loans entailing above average credit risk, loan portfolios, rescue
financings and other capital solutions for companies experiencing financial stress.
U.S. Private Debt
In 2001, we established the U.S. Private Debt strategy to capitalize on our expertise in credit analysis after
we observed a gap in the availability of mezzanine capital to many attractive companies that were considered too
small for the high yield bond market. Initially focused on mezzanine financings, the strategy has evolved to now
primarily include directly originated senior loans. Our strong relationships in the private equity, intermediary and
banking communities constitute a major advantage in our investment process. We target investments in companies
that are unable to access widely available financing sources for leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations, acquisitions
and corporate growth, and that have a strong relative market position and a well-developed business strategy, in
addition to sustainable cash flow and a proven management team.
European Private Debt
We introduced European Private Debt in 2013 to capitalize on opportunities resulting from the decline in
European bank lending and our significant industry experience, knowledge and deep relationships across the
Continent. The strategy seeks to achieve attractive, risk-adjusted absolute returns by making primary investments
in high-yielding debt or preferred equity of healthy European companies that require liquidity for acquisitions,
buyouts of minority investors, debt restructurings, recapitalizations or acquisitions of hard assets. Such investments
are not expected to result in substantial influence or control. Our goal is to target a concentrated portfolio of direct
loans to middle-market companies resulting from unique proprietary lending opportunities generated by the
European Principal Group (the “EPG”). The strategy invests primarily in industries in which the EPG has existing
portfolio companies or experience, with a particular emphasis on capital-intensive sectors where a lack of bank
financing has created an opportunity to acquire assets at a significant discount or to extend credit at attractive rates.
Typically we are the sole lender in our direct-lending transactions, and we rarely participate in sponsor-backed
transactions or competitive auctions.
Emerging Markets Debt Total Return
As a step-out to our Emerging Markets Opportunities strategy, in 2015 we introduced Emerging Markets
Debt Total Return to third-party investors to capitalize on the nascent market of stressed credits falling out of the
investment-grade and high yield fixed income emerging markets universe. The strategy invests primarily in
performing emerging market credit-oriented investments on an unlevered basis, seeking to achieve an attractive
total return by taking advantage of market inefficiencies and geopolitical complexities in the emerging markets credit
universe.
12
Multi-Strategy Credit
We have been managing multi-strategy fixed income portfolios since 1998, strategically allocating clients’
capital in a number of our liquid and illiquid credit strategies. In 2017, we introduced our first Multi-Strategy Credit
Fund, which provides our clients access to Oaktree’s more liquid credit strategies, including high yield bonds, senior
loans, emerging markets debt, real estate debt securities, structured credit and convertible bonds. The strategy
seeks to take advantage of changing market conditions by investing flexibly in various liquid credit opportunities
based on our assessment of relative value. Our goal is to generate attractive current income and total return while
limiting volatility through diversification.
Convertible Securities
Convertible securities are part debt and part equity. By applying our risk-control investment approach to
these securities, we attempt to capture most of the returns of equities in rising markets and to outperform equities in
flat or down markets. Our goal is to capture the vast majority of the performance of equities over full market cycles
with reduced volatility and/or substantially outperform straight bonds with similar levels of risk. To reduce risk, we
broadly diversify and focus on convertibles that provide pronounced downside protection. We manage three
convertible securities strategies that focus on different regions and market sections – U.S., non-U.S. and “high
income” convertibles. High income (or “busted”) convertibles offer a unique combination of high current yield and
yield-to-maturity, plus the potential for significant equity-driven capital appreciation.
Distressed Debt
Distressed Debt
Our Distressed Debt team was an industry pioneer and has been one of its leaders since the inception of the
strategy in 1988. The team focuses primarily on investments in distressed companies that are perceived to have
substantial asset values or business franchises, and are in industries going through periods of transition or
dislocation. Our approach seeks to combine protection against loss, which generally comes from buying claims on
assets at bargain prices, with the substantial gains to be achieved by returning companies to financial viability
through restructuring. We take an opportunistic approach to investing, with the flexibility and expertise to choose
from a broad range of investments, including leveraged loans, bonds, equity securities, companies or hard assets.
We have had investment teams in the United States and Europe for many years and recently have expanded our
geographic reach by adding an investment team in Asia.
Value Opportunities
We launched Value Opportunities in 2007 for investors who had expressed interest in a more liquid version
of the Distressed Debt strategy. The fund is managed by the Distressed Debt team and invests mainly in distressed
debt, stressed debt and other value-oriented investments for which there is a liquid market. Inasmuch as the
strategy is intended to be opportunistic, the composition of the portfolio is designed to capitalize on changing
market conditions. In general, the strategy employs similar strategies and tactics with regard to distressed
investments as the Distressed Debt strategy, but it may be more aggressive and more oriented to short selling and
short-term trading (and may make greater use of leverage and derivatives) with respect to its non-distressed
investments.
Emerging Markets Opportunities
We launched the Emerging Markets Opportunities strategy in 2012 as an expansion of our Distressed Debt
strategy. The strategy targets stressed, distressed and other value-oriented fixed income, hybrid and equity
investments in emerging markets. In contrast to developed markets, macroeconomic events, political crises and a
misunderstanding among many investors of emerging market complexities give rise to more pronounced
disruptions and an enhanced opportunity set for us to take advantage of such opportunities. The strategy is
managed by a U.S.-based group that leverages our Distressed Debt team’s experience and expertise, and employs
an established, flexible external network of local advisers to enhance deal flow, access local market intelligence and
address the intricacies of jurisdictional differences and industry and local regulatory developments.
13
Control Investing
Special Situations
Our Special Situations strategy makes control-oriented debt and equity investments in middle-market
companies that have an element of distress, dislocation or dysfunction and that we perceive to be undervalued. It
seeks situations in which we can gain control of, or significant influence over, companies exhibiting such
characteristics and then actively manages those businesses in an effort to deliver value as a private equity-like
sponsor. The cornerstone of the Special Situations strategy is its flexibility to invest across capital structures,
whether by purchasing secondary market debt (“distress-for-control”) or making direct debt or equity investments in
distressed businesses. Importantly, the strategy does not require a distressed macro environment to invest
successfully, relying instead on “situational” distress that can be uncovered in any industry, sector or individual
company at any point in the economic cycle.
European Principal
The European Principal strategy targets control investing opportunities where dislocation or distress enable
its funds to secure an attractive purchase price or creation value, and thus the potential for attractive returns.
EPG’s diverse skillset enables the team to target “off-the-run” investment opportunities in which competition is
limited, to assess the correlation between a company’s performance and the general economic cycle or specific
industry trends, and to develop and implement bespoke operational, legal and financial solutions. We eschew
competitive auctions, preferring instead to work closely with parties which have agreed in principle to the proposed
transaction. This approach can improve information flow, reduce the risk and cost of competition, and translate into
a more attractive investment opportunity. The team uses its local presence in multiple countries, coupled with its
deal execution, operational and legal expertise, to craft customized solutions for situations that, in addition to
capital, require complex operational or strategic improvements. Capital-intensive industries are an area of focus
because the investment can be at least partially secured by the value of the assets, which creates downside
protection and possibly substantial upside returns. We may also seek to acquire individual assets or smaller pools
of assets in a single industry, consolidating them into a larger operating company. These so-called platform
investments, which typically are managed by personnel identified by EPG, may benefit from operational, strategic
and financial enhancements implemented by our in-house portfolio enhancement teams.
Power Opportunities
Beginning in 1996, our Control Investing strategies made a number of power- and energy-related
investments jointly with an independent firm, GFI Energy Ventures (“GFI”), a firm founded in 1995. In 2009, GFI
personnel joined us and, starting with Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III, we became the sole manager of the
strategy. The Power Opportunities funds seek to make controlling equity investments in companies providing
equipment, software, and services used in the generation, transmission, distribution, marketing, trading, and
consumption of electricity, natural gas, and related energy services. The Power Opportunities team is comprised of
seasoned energy sector professionals who work to identify key energy industry themes and then invest in
companies well-positioned to benefit from such themes. The team then works closely with portfolio companies to
strengthen operations, pursue new customers and market opportunities, recruit additional talent, and make
complementary acquisitions, among other activities to increase shareholder value. The strategy invests in proven
performers and market leaders, not start-up ventures or turnarounds.
Infrastructure Investing
In August 2014, we acquired the Highstar Capital team and certain Highstar entities (collectively “Highstar”)
to facilitate the expansion of our Power Opportunities strategy and to help us capitalize on the growing need for
private capital to support the renovation, replacement and creation of critical transportation and energy
infrastructure. Highstar was founded in 2000 and was an early entrant into infrastructure investing. Oaktree’s
Infrastructure Investing strategy seeks to leverage our team’s expertise to capitalize on evolving industry dynamics
by originating, owning and operating infrastructure and related investments, particularly in the transportation and
energy sectors. Leveraging the team’s deep experience and long standing relationships in these respective
industries, the strategy targets investments where we see the potential to add significant value, principally through
our operational, managerial, industry, risk management and financial expertise.
14
Real Estate
Real Estate Opportunities
The Real Estate team targets a wide range of global investment opportunities across all areas of this asset
class, with an emphasis on debt or equity investments in commercial real estate, corporate real estate, structured
finance, commercial non-performing loans, residential real estate and non-U.S. real estate. Investments may
include direct property investments; investments in real estate-related corporations; commercial mortgage-backed
securities and related securities; residential land, assets and loan pools; small-balance commercial loan pools; and
non-U.S. investments. With dedicated real estate professionals in the U.S., Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea and
the U.K., the team benefits from Oaktree’s multi-disciplinary strengths and global footprint. The team also
occasionally pursues development opportunities with aligned, high-quality partners.
Real Estate Debt
Our management of the Oaktree PPIP Fund, organized pursuant to the U.S. Treasury Department’s program
to address troubled real estate-related assets during the 2007-2008 global financial crisis, spurred us to offer Real
Estate Debt as a successor strategy in 2012. The Real Estate Debt strategy seeks to achieve attractive risk-
adjusted returns and produce current income by investing in real estate-related debt that is not anticipated to result
in control of the underlying asset. The strategy specializes in debt-driven opportunities similar to that of the Real
Estate strategy (e.g., commercial real estate, real estate-related corporate investments, structured finance,
commercial non-performing loans, residential real estate and non-U.S. real estate), and invests in commercial
mortgage-backed securities, commercial and residential mortgages, mezzanine loans, and corporate debt.
Real Estate Income
In 2016, we launched the Real Estate Income strategy as a step-out of the Real Estate Opportunities
strategy to expand the reach of our real estate platform through investments that have the potential to provide
stable income and attractive risk-adjusted returns, but do not have the requisite distress or total return profile to be
a candidate for our Real Estate Opportunities funds. The strategy seeks to achieve superior risk-adjusted returns
through investments in high-quality real estate assets with an emphasis on income and long-term growth, and
targets commercial real estate assets, with a particular emphasis on office, multifamily, industrial and retail
properties. It also considers debt and other income-producing investments on a limited basis.
Listed Equities
Emerging Markets Equities
As a step-out from our Emerging Markets Absolute Return strategy, in 2011 we added the long-only
Emerging Markets Equities strategy, which we manage through funds, mutual fund sub-advisory relationships and
separate accounts. The strategy invests on a long-only basis in the equities of emerging market companies in the
Asia Pacific region, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Russia.
Value Equities
We launched the Value Equities strategy to third-party investors in 2014 as a step-out from our Distressed
Debt platform. Similar to our Distressed Debt and Value Opportunities strategies, Value Equities employs a bottom-
up, value-oriented investment approach focused on long-term principal appreciation and preservation of capital.
The strategy seeks to achieve attractive, risk-adjusted returns by opportunistically assembling and managing an
unleveraged, concentrated portfolio of stressed, post-reorganization and deep value equities that offer asymmetric
return profiles across industries, market capitalizations and geographies within developed markets.
15
Our Investment Performance
Our investment professionals have generated impressive investment performance through multiple market
cycles. As of December 31, 2017, our incentive-creating closed-end funds had produced a since-inception
aggregate gross IRR of 18.9% on approximately $78 billion of drawn capital. Of the 59 such closed-end funds we
manage with greater than 18 months of performance, 58 had positive net IRRs as of December 31, 2017, an
achievement that reflects, among many factors, our practice of sizing funds in proportion to our view of the supply of
potential attractive investment opportunities.
Information regarding our most significant and longest-managed closed-end funds is shown below, as of or
for the periods ended December 31, 2017. Please see “Fund Data” below for more information regarding the
performance of our closed-end funds.
Strategy
Inception /
Vintage
Total Drawn
Capital
(in millions)
IRR Since Inception
Gross
Net
Multiple of
Drawn
Capital
Distressed Debt funds .....................................................
Real Estate Opportunities funds ......................................
Oaktree Special Situations Fund .....................................
Other Special Situations funds (1) ....................................
European Principal funds (2) .............................................
Power Opportunities funds ..............................................
U.S. Private Debt funds ...................................................
Sub-total ..........................................................................
Other funds .....................................................................
Total
................................................................................
1988
1994
2015
1994
2006
1999
2001
$
41,496
22.0%
16.2%
1.7x
15.6
43.0
13.1
13.6
34.5
13.0
11.9
23.8
9.4
9.1
26.3
8.7
1.8
1.4
1.9
1.7
2.1
1.4
7,429
550
10,184
6,574
2,348
3,850
72,431
19,174
$
91,605
(1) The figures shown exclude the performance of Oaktree Special Situations Fund.
(2) All figures are based on the conversion of amounts or cash flows from euros to USD using the December 31, 2017 spot
rate of $1.20.
Performance of our open-end funds is in part measured in relation to applicable benchmark returns. Our
emphasis on risk control and credit selection has generally led to outperformance in challenging markets and over
full market cycles. Information regarding our open-end funds, together with relevant benchmark data, is set forth
below as of or for the periods ended December 31, 2017. Please see “Fund Data” below for more information
regarding the performance of our open-end funds.
Since Inception as of December 31, 2017
Annualized Rates of Return
Sharpe Ratio
Strategy
Inception
AUM
Gross
Net
Oaktree
Relevant
Benchmark
(Gross)
Oaktree
Gross
Relevant
Benchmark
(Gross)
(in millions)
U.S. High Yield Bonds...................
Global High Yield Bonds ...............
European High Yield Bonds ..........
U.S. Convertibles ..........................
Non-U.S. Convertibles ..................
High Income Convertibles .............
U.S. Senior Loans .........................
European Senior Loans ................
Emerging Markets Equities ...........
1986
2010
1999
1987
1994
1989
2008
2009
2011
$ 16,432
9.3%
8.7%
8.3%
4,403
1,013
2,668
1,469
1,119
1,322
1,753
4,055
7.4
8.1
9.4
8.4
11.3
6.1
7.8
3.2
6.9
7.6
8.8
7.8
10.5
5.5
7.3
2.4
7.0
6.4
8.3
5.5
8.2
5.2
8.5
2.6
0.81
1.17
0.73
0.50
0.80
1.07
1.12
1.69
0.16
0.57
1.14
0.46
0.38
0.41
0.61
0.66
1.69
0.14
16
Synergies
We emphasize cross-group cooperation and collaboration among our investment professionals. Many of our
investment strategies are complementary, and our investment professionals often identify and communicate
potential opportunities to other groups, allowing our funds to benefit from the synergies created by the scale of our
business and our proprietary research. For example, the Distressed Debt group sometimes identifies companies
emerging from bankruptcy that could be attractive to the High Yield Bond group.
This cross-pollination among our investment groups occurs both formally and informally. For example,
representatives of different investment groups often attend each other’s meetings in order to keep abreast of the
others’ activities and maintain access to specialized investment expertise. Groups periodically invest jointly,
permitting us to make larger or more specialized investments than we could undertake in the absence of such
collaboration. Our investment professionals also cooperate informally, consulting one another with respect to
existing and proposed investments. Our culture encourages such cooperation, as does the broad Oaktree equity
ownership among our investment professionals, which gives them an indirect stake in the success of all of our
investment strategies.
We have a shared trading desk in the U.S. for many of our strategies, which provides the benefit of our
traders’ deep experience with both performing and distressed securities, facilitates communication among the
groups, and allows us to combine trades for larger orders with the preferential access and pricing that sometimes
comes with larger orders. Additionally, the scale of our investing activities makes us a significant client of many
investment banks, brokers and consultants, and thus helps each group access opportunities that might not be
available were it not part of our larger organization.
Marketing and Client Relations
Our client relationships are fundamental to our business. We believe our success is a byproduct of the
success of our fund investors and thus always strive to achieve superior returns with risk under control, to charge
fair and transparent management fees, and to behave with professionalism and integrity. We have developed a
loyal following among many of the world’s most significant institutional investors, and believe that their and our
other investors’ loyalty results from our superior investment record, our reputation for integrity, and the fairness and
transparency of our fee structures.
As of December 31, 2017, our $100.2 billion of AUM was divided by client type and geographic origin as
follows:
AUM by Client Type
AUM
%
AUM by Client Location
AUM
%
(in millions)
(in millions)
Public funds .................................................... $ 22,699
23%
Americas ................................ $ 70,922
71%
Europe, Middle East & Africa..
Asia Pacific ............................
17,307
11,999
17
12
Total ....................................... $ 100,228
100%
Corporate and corporate pension ...................
Intermediary distribution .................................
Insurance companies .....................................
Sovereign wealth funds ..................................
Endowments / foundations .............................
Private – high net worth / family office ............
Oaktree & affiliates .........................................
Fund of funds .................................................
Unions ............................................................
Other ..............................................................
22,217
11,043
9,585
7,732
5,355
5,106
4,092
2,917
2,155
7,327
22
11
10
8
5
5
4
3
2
7
Total
............................................................... $ 100,228
100%
Our extensive in-house global Marketing and Client Relations groups, comprised of 85 individuals, 43 of
which are dedicated to relationship management, sales and client service in Europe, the Middle East, Asia/Pacific
and the Americas, appropriately reflects the increasingly global composition of our client base. This team is
augmented by 10 product specialists and 32 dedicated support staff across the areas of due diligence services,
product management and programming.
17
Employees
We strive to maintain a work environment that fosters integrity, professionalism, excellence, candor and
collegiality among our employees. We consider our labor relations to be good. As of December 31, 2017, we had
930 employees, categorized as follows:
Investment professionals ......................................................................................................
Other professionals ..............................................................................................................
Support staff
.........................................................................................................................
Total
......................................................................................................................................
297
486
147
930
197
97
—
294
All
Employees
Employee
Owners (1)
Employees
Located
Outside
the U.S.
100
77
41
218
(1) Represents employees that have received grants of Class A or OCGH units under our equity incentive plans.
Competition
We compete with many other firms in every aspect of our business, including raising funds, seeking
investments and hiring and retaining professionals. Many of our competitors are substantially larger than us and
have considerably greater financial, technical and marketing resources. Certain of these competitors periodically
raise significant amounts of capital in investment strategies that are similar to ours. Some of these competitors also
may have a lower cost of capital and access to funding sources that are not available to us, which may create
further competitive disadvantages for us with respect to investment opportunities. In addition, some of these
competitors may have higher risk tolerances or make different risk assessments than we do, allowing them to
consider a wider variety of investments and establish broader networks of business relationships. In short, we
operate in a highly competitive business and many of our competitors may be better positioned than we are to take
advantage of opportunities in the marketplace. For additional information regarding the competitive risks that we
face, please see “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—The investment management business is
intensely competitive.”
Organizational Structure
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC is a Delaware limited liability company that was formed on April 13, 2007. The
Company is owned by its Class A and Class B unitholders. Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC acts as the
Company’s manager and is the general partner of Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P., which owns 100% of the
Company’s outstanding Class B units. OCGH is owned by the OCGH unitholders. The Company’s operations are
conducted through a group of operating entities collectively referred to as the “Oaktree Operating Group.” OCGH
has a direct economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group and the Company has an indirect economic interest
in the Oaktree Operating Group. We collectively refer to the interests in the Oaktree Operating Group as the
“Oaktree Operating Group units.” An Oaktree Operating Group unit is not a separate legal interest but represents
one limited partnership interest in each of the Oaktree Operating Group entities.
Class A units are entitled to one vote per unit. Class B units are entitled to ten votes per unit. However, if the
Oaktree control condition (as defined below) is no longer satisfied, our Class B units will be entitled to only one vote
per unit. Holders of our Class A units and Class B units generally vote together as a single class on the limited set
of matters on which our unitholders have a vote. Such matters, which must be approved by a majority (or, in the
case of election of directors when the Oaktree control condition is no longer satisfied, a plurality) of the votes
entitled to be cast by all Class A units and Class B units present in person or represented by proxy at a meeting of
unitholders, include a proposed sale of all or substantially all of our assets, certain mergers and consolidations,
certain amendments to our operating agreement and an election by our board of directors to dissolve the company.
The Class B units do not represent an economic interest in Oaktree Capital Group, LLC. The number of Class B
units held by OCGH, however, increases or decreases with corresponding changes in OCGH’s economic interest in
the Oaktree Operating Group.
Our operating agreement provides that so long as our senior executives, or their successors or affiliated
entities (other than us or our subsidiaries), including OCGH, collectively hold, directly or indirectly, at least 10% of
the aggregate outstanding Oaktree Operating Group units, our manager, Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC,
which is 100% owned and controlled by our senior executives, will be entitled to designate all the members of our
18
board of directors. We refer to this ownership condition as the “Oaktree control condition.” Holders of our Class A
units and Class B units have no right to elect our manager. So long as the Oaktree control condition is satisfied, our
manager will control the membership of our board of directors, which will manage all of our operations and activities
and will have discretion over significant corporate actions, such as the issuance of securities, payment of
distributions, sale of assets, making certain amendments to our operating agreement and other matters.
The diagram below depicts our organizational structure as of February 12, 2018.
______________________
(1)
Holds 100% of the Class B units and 0.02% of the Class A units, which together represent 92.4% of the total combined voting power of our outstanding
Class A and Class B units. The Class B units have no economic interest in us. The general partner of Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. is Oaktree
Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC, which is controlled by our senior executives. Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC also acts as our manager
and in that capacity has the authority to designate all the members of our board of directors for so long as the Oaktree control condition is satisfied.
The percent economic interest represents the applicable number of Class A units as a percentage of the Oaktree Operating Group units. As of February
12, 2018, there were 156,266,685 Oaktree Operating Group units outstanding.
The percent economic interest in Oaktree Operating Group represents the aggregate number of Oaktree Operating Group units held, directly or
indirectly, as a percentage of the total number of Oaktree Operating Group units outstanding.
(2)
(3)
(4) Oaktree Capital Group, LLC holds 1,000 shares of non-voting Class A common stock of Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc., which are entitled to receive 100%
of any dividends. Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. holds 100 shares of voting Class B common stock of Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc., which do not
participate in dividends or otherwise represent an economic interest in Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc.
(5) Owned indirectly by Oaktree Holdings, LLC through an entity not reflected in this diagram that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax
purposes. Through this entity, each of Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree Holdings, Ltd. owns a less than 1% indirect interest in Oaktree Capital I,
L.P.
19
Regulatory Matters and Compliance
Our business, as well as the financial services industry in general, is subject to extensive regulation in the
United States and elsewhere. Our indirect subsidiary, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., is registered as an
investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Registered investment advisers
are subject to the requirements and regulations of the U.S. Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the
“Advisers Act”). These requirements relate to, among other things, fiduciary duties to clients, maintaining an
effective compliance program, solicitation agreements, conflicts of interest, recordkeeping and reporting, disclosure,
limitations on agency cross and principal transactions between an adviser and advisory clients and general anti-
fraud prohibitions. In addition, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. is registered as a commodity pool operator and a
commodity trading adviser with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”). Registered commodity
pool operators and commodity trading advisers are each subject to the requirements and regulations of the U.S.
Commodity Exchange Act, as amended (the “Commodity Exchange Act”). These requirements relate to, among
other things, maintaining an effective compliance program, recordkeeping and reporting, disclosure, business
conduct, and general anti-fraud prohibitions. In addition, as a registered commodity pool operator and a commodity
trading adviser with the CFTC, we are also required to be a member of the National Futures Association (the
“NFA”), a self-regulatory organization for the U.S. derivatives industry. The NFA also promulgates and enforces
rules governing the conduct of, and examines the activities of, its member firms.
Our publicly-traded BDCs and open-end mutual funds are subject to the rules and regulations applicable to
investment companies under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940 (as amended, the “Investment Company
Act”). We are required to invest such funds’ assets in accordance with limitations under the Investment Company
Act and applicable provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). We also have
received exemptive relief from the SEC that allows our BDCs to co-invest with each other and other Oaktree funds,
subject to compliance with certain conditions. In addition, we are required to file periodic and annual reports on
behalf of such funds with the SEC. Furthermore, advisers to mutual funds have a fiduciary duty under the
Investment Company Act not to charge excessive compensation, and the Investment Company Act grants
shareholders of mutual funds a direct private right of action against investment advisers to seek redress for alleged
violations of this fiduciary duty.
One of our indirect subsidiaries, OCM Investments, LLC, is registered as a broker-dealer with the SEC and in
all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and is a member of the U.S. Financial Industry Regulatory
Authority (“FINRA”). As a broker-dealer, this subsidiary is subject to regulation and oversight by the SEC and state
securities regulators. In addition, FINRA, a self-regulatory organization that is subject to oversight by the SEC,
promulgates and enforces rules governing the conduct of, and examines the activities of, its member firms. Due to
the limited authority granted to our subsidiary in its capacity as a broker-dealer, it is not required to comply with
certain regulations covering trade practices among broker-dealers and the use and safekeeping of customers’ funds
and securities. As a registered broker-dealer and member of a self-regulatory organization, we are, however,
subject to the SEC’s uniform net capital rule. Rule 15c3-1 of the Exchange Act specifies the minimum level of net
capital a broker-dealer must maintain and also requires that a significant part of a broker-dealer’s assets be kept in
relatively liquid form. The SEC and FINRA impose rules that require notification when net capital falls below certain
predefined criteria, limit the ratio of subordinated debt to equity in the regulatory capital composition of a broker-
dealer and constrain the ability of a broker-dealer to expand its business under certain circumstances. Additionally,
the SEC’s uniform net capital rule imposes certain requirements that may have the effect of prohibiting a broker-
dealer from distributing or withdrawing capital and requiring prior notice to the SEC for certain withdrawals of
capital.
Another of our subsidiaries, Oaktree Capital Management (UK) LLP, is authorized and regulated by the U.K.
Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) as an investment manager in the United Kingdom. The U.K. Financial
Services and Markets Act 2000 (“FSMA”) and rules promulgated thereunder govern all aspects of the U.K.
investment business, including sales, research and trading practices, the provision of investment advice, the use
and safekeeping of client funds and securities, regulatory capital, recordkeeping, margin practices and procedures,
the approval standards for individuals, anti-money laundering, periodic reporting, and settlement procedures.
Similarly, we have a number of other non-U.S. subsidiaries that are regulated by the applicable regulators in their
respective jurisdictions.
The SEC and other regulators have in recent years increased their regulatory activities in respect of asset
management firms. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”),
among other things, imposes significant regulations on nearly every aspect of the U.S. financial services industry,
including oversight and regulation of systemic market risk (including the power to liquidate certain institutions);
20
authorizing the Federal Reserve to regulate nonbank institutions that are deemed systemically important; generally
prohibiting insured depository institutions and their affiliates from conducting proprietary trading and investing in
private equity funds and hedge funds; and imposing new registration, recordkeeping and reporting requirements on
private fund investment advisers. Some of these provisions are still subject to further rulemaking and to the
discretion of regulatory bodies. The Dodd-Frank Act also prohibits investments in private equity and hedge funds
by certain banking entities and covered nonbank companies. While certain of our subsidiaries are already
registered investment advisers and registered broker-dealers and subject to SEC and FINRA examinations,
compliance with any additional legal or regulatory requirements, including the need to register other subsidiaries as
investment advisers, could make compliance more difficult and expensive and affect the manner in which we
conduct business.
Certain of our activities are subject to compliance with laws and regulations of U.S. federal, state and
municipal governments, non-U.S. governments, their respective agencies and/or various self-regulatory
organizations or exchanges relating to, among other things, antitrust laws, anti-money laundering laws, anti-bribery
laws relating to foreign officials, and privacy laws with respect to client information, and some of our funds invest in
businesses that operate in highly regulated industries. Any failure to comply with these rules and regulations could
expose us to liability and/or reputational damage. Our business has operated for many years within a legal
framework that requires our being able to monitor and comply with a broad range of legal and regulatory
developments that affect our activities. However, additional legislation, changes in rules or changes in the
interpretation or enforcement of existing laws and rules, either in the United States or elsewhere, may directly affect
our mode of operation and profitability. Please see “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Regulatory
changes in the United States, regulatory compliance failures and the effects of negative publicity surrounding the
financial industry in general could adversely affect our reputation, business and operations.”
Non-GAAP Financial and Other Information
Non-GAAP financial and other information for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 are
discussed in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Non-
GAAP Measures” included elsewhere in this annual report.
Available Information
Our website address is www.oaktreecapital.com. Information on our website is not a part of this annual
report and is not incorporated by reference herein. We make available free of charge on our website or provide a
link on our website to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on
Form 8-K and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the
Exchange Act, as soon as reasonably practicable after those reports are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the
SEC. To access these filings, go to the “Unitholders—Investor Relations” section of our website and then click on
“SEC Filings.” You may also read and copy any document we file at the SEC’s public reference room located at
100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the
public reference room. In addition these reports and the other documents we file with the SEC are available at a
website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.
Investors and others should note that we use the Unitholders – Investor Relations section of our corporate
website to announce material information to investors and the marketplace. While not all of the information that we
post on our corporate website is of a material nature, some information could be deemed to be material.
Accordingly, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in Oaktree to review the information that we
share on our corporate website at the Unitholders – Investor Relations section of our website, http://
ir.oaktreecapital.com/. Information contained on, or available through, our website is not incorporated by reference
into this document.
21
Fund Data
Information regarding our closed-end, open-end and evergreen funds, together with benchmark data where applicable, is set forth below. For our closed-end and evergreen funds, no
benchmarks are presented in the tables as there are no known comparable benchmarks for these funds’ investment philosophy, strategy and implementation.
Closed-end Funds
Investment Period
Start Date
End Date
Total
Committed
Capital
%
Invested (1)
%
Drawn (2)
Fund Net
Income
Since
Inception
Distri-
butions
Since
Inception
Net
Asset
Value
(in millions)
Manage-
ment
Fee-
gener-
ating
AUM
Incentive
Income
Recog-
nized
(Non-
GAAP)
Accrued
Incentives
(Fund
Level) (3)
Unreturned
Drawn
Capital
Plus
Accrued
Preferred
Return (4)
IRR Since
Inception (5)
Gross
Net
Multiple
of Drawn
Capital (6)
As of December 31, 2017
Distressed Debt
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb (7) ..........................
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (7) ............................
TBD
—
$
Jan. 2016
Jan. 2019
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX ..............................
Jan. 2014
Jan. 2017
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb ........................... Aug. 2011
Aug. 2014
Special Account B .................................................. Nov. 2009
Nov. 2012
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII ............................ Oct. 2009
Oct. 2012
Special Account A .................................................. Nov. 2008
Oct. 2012
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb ................................ May 2008
May 2011
OCM Opportunities Fund VII .................................. Mar. 2007
Legacy funds (8). .....................................................
Various
Mar. 2010
Various
Real Estate Opportunities
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (9)(10) ..
Jan. 2016
Jan. 2020
$
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI ........... Aug. 2012
Aug. 2016
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund V ............ Mar. 2011
Mar. 2015
Special Account D .................................................. Nov. 2009
Nov. 2012
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund IV ........... Dec. 2007
Legacy funds (8). .....................................................
Various
Dec. 2011
Various
Real Estate Debt
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II (9)(11) .................. Mar. 2017
Mar. 2020
$
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund ............................. Sep. 2013
Oaktree PPIP Fund (12) . ......................................... Dec. 2009
Oct. 2016
Dec. 2012
8,872
3,603
5,066
2,692
1,031
4,507
253
10,940
3,598
12,495
2,921
2,677
1,283
256
450
2,341
1,237
1,112
2,322
—%
81
nm
nm
nm
nm
nm
nm
nm
nm
—% $
— $
— $ — $
— $
— $
— $
—
n/a
n/a
54
100
100
100
100
100
90
100
100
703
545
771
590
2,456
309
8,973
1,472
10,461
81
1,671
2,020
1,441
5,843
514
17,844
4,742
22,923
2,556
3,940
1,443
256
1,121
48
973
328
33
3,450
4,116
1,631
248
1,123
47
828
411
—
—
—
52
16
165
52
1,554
85
1,557
136
—
—
—
313
9
190
—
7
2,029
4,994
1,832
165
538
—
—
491
—
41.2%
25.3%
5.5
8.4
13.5
12.8
28.0
21.9
10.2
23.6
2.9
5.5
11.1
9.0
22.7
16.6
7.5
18.5
22.0%
16.2%
n/a
1.5x
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.6
2.3
2.0
1.5
1.9
63%
15% $
232
$
236
$ 434
$
2,604
$
— $
45
$
220
nm
nm
1.8x
nm
nm
nm
nm
nm
47%
nm
nm
100
100
100
100
99
1,282
985
203
392
1,780
1,968
378
759
2,010
4,324
2,179
300
89
83
2
13% $
6
$
9
$ 153
$
81
48
157
457
507
1,570
552
—
1,676
153
—
64
—
584
594
—
22
130
4
58
232
$
— $
6
47
226
1,703
15.5%
10.5%
57
16
17
—
1
17
—
$
—
14
—
—
150
425
—
17.4
14.9
15.9
15.2
12.9
12.8
10.8
11.9
15.6%
11.9%
1.6
1.9
1.8
2.0
1.9
nm
nm
24.9%
18.8%
28.2
n/a
1.1x
1.3
1.4
Real Estate Income (13)
Special Account G (9)(11) .......................................... Oct. 2016
Oct. 2020
$
615
66%
66% $
39
$
40
$ 405
$
384
$
— $
8
$
387
nm
nm
1.1x
European Principal (14)
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV (7)(9) ...............
Jul. 2017
Jul. 2022
Oaktree European Principal Fund III ...................... Nov. 2011
Nov. 2016
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund II ..... Dec. 2007
Dec. 2012
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund ........ Mar. 2006
Mar. 2009
$
1,119
3,164
1,759
495
77%
nm
nm
nm
85
100
96
54% €
(15)
2
584
2,200
1,104
€ 3,845
1,866
264
1,090
2,682
599
$
927
$ — $
— $
399
454
$
22
— €
— €
29
87
$
— €
610
nm
nm
427
2,603
19.4%
13.3%
— €
— $
715
—
8.4
11.7
4.3
8.9
1.0x
1.9
1.4
2.1
13.6%
9.1%
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
Investment Period
Start Date
End Date
Total
Committed
Capital
%
Invested (1)
%
Drawn (2)
Fund Net
Income
Since
Inception
Distri-
butions
Since
Inception
Net
Asset
Value
(in millions)
Manage-
ment
Fee-
gener-
ating
AUM
Incentive
Income
Recog-
nized
(Non-
GAAP)
Accrued
Incentives
(Fund
Level) (3)
Unreturned
Drawn
Capital
Plus
Accrued
Preferred
Return (4)
IRR Since
Inception (5)
Gross
Net
Multiple
of Drawn
Capital (6)
As of December 31, 2017
Power Opportunities
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund IV ............... Nov. 2015
Nov. 2020
$
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III ................ Apr. 2010
Legacy funds (8). ................................................
Various
Apr. 2015
Various
1,106
1,062
1,470
65%
nm
nm
65% $
53
$
1
$ 770
$
1,078
$
— $
— $
66
63
505
1,689
650
2,616
559
—
369
—
24
123
73
—
777
268
—
13.3%
7.0%
22.5
35.1
14.5
27.4
34.5%
26.3%
1.1x
1.8
2.8
Special Situations (15)
Oaktree Special Situations Fund (7) .................... Nov. 2015
Nov. 2018
Other funds:
Oaktree Principal Fund V ................................... Feb. 2009
Feb. 2015
Special Account C .............................................. Dec. 2008
Feb. 2014
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV ................ Oct. 2006
Legacy funds (8). ................................................
Various
Oct. 2011
Various
$
$
1,377
88%
48% $
174
2,827
505
3,328
3,701
nm
nm
nm
nm
91% $
91
100
100
481
200
3,068
2,710
$
$
159
$ 675
1,674
$ 1,393
413
5,887
6,404
247
509
7
$
$
$
$
1,262
1,621
276
—
—
— $
34
$
552
43.0%
23.8%
1.4x
50
21
450
405
$
— $
—
148
1
2,099
268
—
—
7.6%
3.5%
1.3x
10.6
12.6
14.4
7.4
9.1
11.1
13.1%
9.4%
1.5
2.1
1.8
Infrastructure Investing
Highstar Capital IV (16). ....................................... Nov. 2010
Nov. 2016
$
2,000
nm
100% $
498
$
696
$ 1,802
$
1,329
$
— $
2
$
1,939
12.1%
7.7%
1.4x
European Private Debt (14)
Oaktree European Capital Solutions Fund (7)(11) . Dec. 2015
Dec. 2018
Oaktree European Dislocation Fund .................. Oct. 2013
Oct. 2016
Special Account E .............................................. Oct. 2013
Apr. 2015
U.S. Private Debt (17)
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund IV (11) .......................... Oct. 2014
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund III (18). ......................... Dec. 2009
Jun. 2005
OCM Mezzanine Fund II ....................................
OCM Mezzanine Fund (19). ................................. Oct. 2001
Oct. 2019
$
Dec. 2014
Jun. 2010
Oct. 2006
Emerging Markets Opportunities
Oaktree Emerging Market Opportunities Fund... Sep. 2013
Sep. 2017
$
Special Account F ..............................................
Jan. 2014
Sep. 2017
703
294
379
852
1,592
1,251
808
384
253
77%
nm
nm
64%
nm
nm
nm
nm
nm
58% €
57
69
19
39
63
155
182
295
247
39
29
64% $
78
$
90
$ 535
$
89
88
96
437
488
302
1,542
1,504
1,075
318
91
—
78% $
112
$
96
74
212
187
$ 198
$
129
264
24
13
511
339
—
—
— €
2
4
$
— $
15
—
38
— $
—
$
(13)
140
127
30,576
8,114
2
4
6
11
28
—
—
20
15
$
$
1,901
(13)
2
243
18
7
519
270
166
—
149
95
10.1%
6.3%
20.5
14.2
14.6
11.0
14.8%
10.8%
1.1x
1.3
1.3
11.9%
8.5%
1.2x
15.0
10.9
15.4
10.4 / 8.6
7.4
10.8 / 10.5
13.0%
8.7%
16.4%
11.0%
16.0
11.4
16.2%
11.2%
1.4
1.6
1.5
1.5x
1.4
Other (18)
Total (19)
$ 38,690
$
1,903
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
For our incentive-creating closed-end funds in their investment periods, this percentage equals invested capital divided by committed capital. Invested capital for this purpose is the sum of capital drawn from fund investors plus net borrowings, if any,
outstanding, under a fund-level credit facility where such borrowings were made in lieu of drawing capital from fund investors.
Represents capital drawn from fund investors, net of distributions to such investors of uninvested capital, divided by committed capital. The aggregate change in drawn capital for the three months ended December 31, 2017 was $1.2 billion.
Accrued incentives (fund level) exclude non-GAAP incentive income previously recognized.
Unreturned drawn capital plus accrued preferred return reflects the amount the fund needs to distribute to its investors as a return of capital and a preferred return (as applicable) before Oaktree is entitled to receive incentive income (other than tax
distributions) from the fund.
The internal rate of return (“IRR”) is the annualized implied discount rate calculated from a series of cash flows. It is the return that equates the present value of all capital invested in an investment to the present value of all returns of capital, or the
discount rate that will provide a net present value of all cash flows equal to zero. Fund-level IRRs are calculated based upon the actual timing of cash contributions/distributions to investors and the residual value of such investor’s capital accounts at the
end of the applicable period being measured. Gross IRRs reflect returns before allocation of management fees, expenses and any incentive allocation to the fund’s general partner. To the extent material, gross returns include certain transaction,
advisory, directors or other ancillary fees (“fee income”) paid directly to us in connection with our funds’ activities (we credit all such fee income back to the respective fund(s) so that our funds’ investors share pro rata in the fee income’s economic
benefit). Net IRRs reflect returns to non-affiliated investors after allocation of management fees, expenses and any incentive allocation to the fund’s general partner.
Multiple of drawn capital is calculated as drawn capital plus gross income and, if applicable, fee income before fees and expenses divided by drawn capital.
Fund data include the performance of the main fund and any associated fund-of-one accounts, except the gross and net IRRs presented reflect only the performance of the main fund. Certain fund-of-one accounts pay management fees based on cost
basis, rather than committed capital.
23
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
€
(8)
(9)
(10)
(11)
(12)
(13)
(14)
(15)
(16)
(17)
(18)
(19)
(20)
(21)
Legacy funds represent certain predecessor funds within the relevant strategy that have substantially or completely liquidated their assets, including funds managed by certain Oaktree investment professionals while employed at the Trust Company of
the West prior to Oaktree’s founding in 1995. When these employees joined Oaktree upon, or shortly after, its founding, they continued to manage the fund through the end of its term pursuant to a sub-advisory relationship between the Trust Company
of the West and Oaktree.
The IRR is not considered meaningful (“nm”) as the period from the initial capital contribution through December 31, 2017 was less than 18 months.
A portion of this fund pays management fees based on drawn, rather than committed, capital.
Management fees during the investment period are calculated on drawn capital or cost basis, rather than committed capital. As a result, as of December 31, 2017 management fee-generating AUM included only that portion of committed capital that had
been drawn.
Due to differences in the allocation of income and expenses to this fund’s two primary limited partners, the U.S. Treasury and Oaktree PPIP Private Fund, a combined net IRR is not presented. Of the $2,322 million in capital commitments, $1,161 million
related to the Oaktree PPIP Private Fund, whose gross and net IRR were 24.7% and 18.6%, respectively.
Effective August 2017, the Real Estate Value-Add strategy was renamed Real Estate Income.
Aggregate IRRs or totals are based on the conversion of cash flows or amounts, respectively, from euros to USD using the December 31, 2017 spot rate of $1.20.
Effective November 2016, the Global Principal strategy was renamed Special Situations. The aggregate gross and net IRRs presented for this strategy exclude the performance of Oaktree Special Situations Fund.
The fund follows the American-style distribution waterfall, whereby the general partner may receive an incentive allocation as soon as it has returned the drawn capital and paid a preferred return on the fund’s realized investments (i.e., on a deal-by-deal
basis). However, such cash distributions of incentives may be subject to repayment, or clawback. As of December 31, 2017, Oaktree had not recognized any incentive income from this fund. The accrued incentives (fund level) amount shown for this
fund represents Oaktree’s effective 8% of the potential incentives generated by this fund in accordance with the terms of the Highstar acquisition.
Effective April 2017, the Mezzanine Finance strategy was renamed U.S. Private Debt, and includes our Mezzanine Finance and Direct Lending funds.
The fund’s partnership interests are divided into Class A and Class B interests, with the Class A interests having priority with respect to the distribution of current income and disposition proceeds. The net IRR for Class A interests was 10.4% and Class B
interests was 8.6%. The combined net IRR for Class A and Class B interests was 9.6%.
The fund’s partnership interests are divided into Class A and Class B interests, with the Class A interests having priority with respect to the distribution of current income and disposition proceeds. The net IRR for Class A interests was 10.8% and Class B
interests was 10.5%. The combined net IRR for the Class A and Class B interests was 10.6%.
This includes our closed-end Senior Loan funds, CLOs, a non-Oaktree fund and certain separate accounts and co-investments.
The total excludes one closed-end fund with management fee-generating AUM aggregating $155 million as of December 31, 2017, which has been included as part of the Strategic Credit strategy within the evergreen funds table.
24
Open-end Funds
Manage-
ment Fee-
gener-
ating AUM
as of
Dec. 31,
2017
(in millions)
Strategy
Inception
Year Ended
December 31, 2017
Rates of Return (1)
Since Inception through December 31, 2017
Annualized Rates of Return (1)
Sharpe Ratio
Oaktree
Gross
Net
Rele-
vant
Bench-
mark
Oaktree
Gross
Net
Rele-
vant
Bench-
mark
Oaktree
Gross
Rele-
vant
Bench-
mark
U.S. High Yield Bonds .........
Global High Yield Bonds ......
European High Yield Bonds.
U.S. Convertibles .................
Non-U.S. Convertibles .........
High Income Convertibles....
U.S. Senior Loans................
European Senior Loans .......
Emerging Markets Equities ..
Multi-Strategy Credit (2) ........
Other ...................................
1986
2010
1999
1987
1994
1989
2008
2009
2011
2017
$ 16,428
6.1%
5.5%
6.9%
9.3%
8.7%
8.3%
6.7
7.5
9.1
8.9
7.6
4.6
2.9
34.7
nm
4,377
1,012
2,668
1,468
1,091
1,311
1,753
4,024
702
354
6.2
7.0
8.6
8.3
6.8
4.1
2.4
33.7
nm
7.5
8.2
13.7
3.7
7.0
4.2
3.3
37.3
nm
7.4
8.1
9.4
8.4
11.3
6.1
7.8
3.2
nm
6.9
7.6
8.8
7.8
10.5
5.5
7.3
2.4
nm
7.0
6.4
8.3
5.5
8.2
5.2
8.5
2.6
nm
0.81
1.17
0.73
0.50
0.80
1.07
1.12
1.69
0.16
nm
0.57
1.14
0.46
0.38
0.41
0.61
0.66
1.69
0.14
nm
Total
$ 35,188
(1) Returns represent time-weighted rates of return, including reinvestment of income, net of commissions and transaction costs. The returns
for Relevant Benchmarks are presented on a gross basis.
(2) Performance is not considered meaningful (“nm”) as the period from the initial capital contribution through December 31, 2017 was less
than 18 months. As a result, returns for the relevant benchmark and the Sharpe Ratio have been excluded.
Evergreen Funds
As of December 31, 2017
Strategy
Inception
AUM
Accrued
Incen-
tives
(Fund
Level)
Manage-
ment
Fee-gener-
ating AUM
(in millions)
Year Ended
December 31, 2017
Rates of Return (1)
Since Inception
through
December 31, 2017
Annualized Rates
of Return (1)
Gross
Net
Gross
Net
Strategic Credit (2). ................................
Value Opportunities ..............................
Emerging Markets Debt (4) ....................
Value Equities (5) ...................................
2012
2007
2015
2012
1,102
896
461
$ 5,087
$
4,672
$
1,028
315
430
6,445
262
—
$
6,707
$
14.2%
11.1%
9.4%
6.9%
10.7
19.0
34.3
8.5
14.9
25.3
9.6
16.6
22.0
5.8
13.0
16.0
1 (3)
— (3)
5 (3)
— (3)
6
6
5
17
Other (6)
Restructured funds
Total (2)
(1) Returns represent time-weighted rates of return.
(2)
Includes our publicly-traded BDCs and one closed-end fund with $135 million and $155 million of AUM and management fee-generating
AUM, respectively. The rates of return reflect the performance of a composite of certain evergreen accounts and exclude our publicly-
traded BDCs.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, gross incentive income recognized by Oaktree totaled $14.2 million for Strategic Credit, $5.5
million for Value Opportunities, $8.4 million for Emerging Markets Debt and $15.6 million for Value Equities.
Includes the Emerging Markets Debt Total Return and Emerging Markets Opportunities strategies. The rates of return reflect the
performance of a composite of accounts for the Emerging Markets Debt Total Return strategy, including a single account with a December
2014 inception date.
Includes performance of a proprietary fund with an initial capital commitment of $25 million since its inception in May 2012.
Includes the Emerging Markets Absolute Return strategy and evergreen separate accounts in the Real Estate Debt strategy.
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
25
Item 1A. Risk Factors
We are subject to a number of significant risks inherent in our business. You should carefully consider the
risks and uncertainties described below and other information included in this annual report. If any of the events
described below occur, our business and financial results could be seriously harmed. The trading price of our
Class A units could decline as a result of any of these risks, and you could lose all or part of your investment.
Risks Relating to Our Business
Given our focus on achieving superior investment performance with less-than-commensurate risk, and the
priority we afford our clients’ interests, we may reduce our AUM, restrain its growth, reduce our fees or
otherwise alter the terms under which we do business when we deem it appropriate—even in
circumstances where others might deem such actions unnecessary. Our approach could adversely affect
our results of operations.
One of the means by which we seek to achieve superior investment performance in each of our strategies is
by limiting the AUM in our strategies to an amount that we believe can be invested appropriately in accordance with
our investment philosophy and current or anticipated economic and market conditions. In the past we have taken,
and we may continue to take, affirmative steps to limit the growth of our AUM. These steps include:
•
•
from time to time, we have suspended marketing certain of our open-end funds or other funds that we
sub-advise, sometimes for long periods, and have declined to participate in searches aggregating billions
of dollars;
from time to time, we have returned capital from certain of our closed-end funds prior to the end of such
funds’ respective investment periods;
• we intentionally sized certain of our closed-ended funds to be smaller than their predecessors even
though we could have raised additional capital; and
• since our founding we have turned away substantial amounts of capital offered to us for management.
Additionally, we have voluntarily reduced management fee rates or changed the terms of how we assess
management fees for certain of our funds or strategies when we deemed it appropriate, even when doing so
reduced our short-term revenue, and we may continue to do so in the future. In addition, we have voluntarily
decided to assess management fees for certain of our closed-end funds temporarily based on contributed capital or
fund NAV, rather than committed capital, and in certain circumstances we may continue to do so in the future. We
have made these changes not because they were necessary to raise the capital we wanted, but because we
deemed it important to demonstrate to our clients that we were not financially incentivized to raise more capital than
appropriate for the opportunity set or to deploy capital for the sake of triggering management fees based on a fund’s
total committed capital, as well as to avoid a disproportionate impact on the funds’ net returns. Additionally, we may
from time to time afford certain investors in our funds or separate account clients more favorable economic terms
than other investors in the same fund or separate account clients within the same or similar investment strategy,
including with respect to management fees and performance-based fees. The availability of such terms is generally
based on the aggregate size of commitments of such investor or client to one or more funds or accounts managed
by us.
Our practice of putting our clients’ interests first and forsaking short-term advantage by, for example,
reducing assets under management or management fee or carried interest rates may reduce the profits we could
otherwise realize in the short term and adversely affect our business and financial condition and therefore conflict
with the short-term interests of our Class A unitholders. In addition, to protect our current clients’ interests, we may
not accept all of the capital offered to us, which may damage our relationships and prospects with potential
investors in our funds and may reduce the value of our business and therefore conflict with our Class A unitholders’
short-term interests. Our Class A unitholders should understand that in instances in which our clients’ interests
diverge from the short-term interests of our Class A unitholders, we intend to act in the interests of our clients.
However, it is our fundamental belief that prioritizing our clients’ interests will maximize the long-term value of our
business, which, in turn, will benefit our Class A unitholders.
26
Our business is materially affected by conditions in the global financial markets and economies, and any
disruption or deterioration in these conditions could materially reduce our revenues, earnings and cash
flow and adversely affect our overall performance, ability to raise or deploy capital, financial prospects and
condition and liquidity position.
Our business and the businesses in which our funds invest are materially affected by conditions in the global
financial markets and economic conditions throughout the world that are outside our control, such as interest rates,
the availability and cost of credit, inflation rates, economic uncertainty, political uncertainty, changes in laws
(including laws relating to taxation), trade barriers, commodity prices, currency exchange rates and controls and
national and international political circumstances (including wars, terrorist acts and security operations). The
detrimental impact to the U.S. and global financial markets following the unprecedented turmoil in the global capital
markets and the financial services industry in late 2008 and early 2009 serves as an example of how global market
conditions can cause uncertainty and instability for investment management businesses. Concerns over increasing
interest rates, particularly short-term rates, growing debt loads for certain countries, uncertainty in the global
regulatory environment, and uncertainty about the consequences of the U.S. and other governments withdrawing
monetary stimulus measures, all highlight the fact that economic conditions remain unpredictable. Such
unpredictability could create volatility in the debt financing market and could negatively impact our business.
Fluctuations in the foreign exchange value of the U.S. dollar could also result in financial market dislocations that
could negatively impact deal finance conditions. These and other uncertain conditions in the global financial
markets and economy have resulted in, and may continue to result in, adverse consequences for many of our
funds, including restricting such funds’ investment activities and impeding such funds’ ability to effectively achieve
their investment objectives.
The economic environment in the past has resulted in, and may in the future result in, decreases in the
market value of certain publicly-traded securities held by some of our funds. Illiquidity in certain portions of the
financial markets could adversely affect the pace of realization of our funds’ investments or otherwise restrict the
ability of our funds to realize value from their investments, thereby adversely affecting our ability to generate
incentive or investment income. There can be no assurance that conditions in the global financial markets will not
deteriorate and/or adversely affect our investments and overall performance.
Our profitability may also be adversely affected by our fixed costs, such as the compensation and expenses
of our staff, lease payments on our office space, interest payments on our debt, development of, and maintenance
on, our information technology and infrastructure, and the possibility that we would be unable to scale back other
costs and otherwise redeploy our resources within a time frame sufficient to match changes in market and
economic conditions to take advantage of the opportunities that may be presented by these changes. As a result,
we may not be able to adjust our resources to take advantage of new investment opportunities that may be created
as a result of specific dislocations in the market.
Our business depends in large part on our ability to raise capital from investors. If we were unable to raise
such capital, we would be unable to collect management fees or deploy such capital into investments,
which would materially reduce our revenues and cash flow and adversely affect our financial condition.
Our ability to raise capital from investors depends on a number of factors, including many that are outside
our control. These include the general economic environment and the number of other investment funds being
raised at the same time by our competitors that are focused on the same or similar investment strategies as our
funds. Additionally, investors may reduce (or even eliminate) their investment allocations to alternative investments,
including closed-ended private funds and hedge funds. Poor performance of our funds could also make it more
difficult for us to raise new capital. Investors in our funds may decline to invest in future funds we raise, and
investors in our open-end and evergreen funds may withdraw their investments in the funds (on specified
withdrawal dates) as a result of poor performance. Our investors and potential investors continually assess our
funds’ performance, both on a standalone basis and relative to market benchmarks and our competitors, and our
ability to raise capital for existing and future funds and avoid excessive redemptions depends on our funds’ relative
and absolute performance. To the extent economic and market conditions deteriorate, we may be unable to raise
sufficient amounts of capital to support the investment activities of future funds.
In addition, certain institutional investors, including sovereign wealth funds and public pension funds, have
demonstrated an increased preference for alternatives to the traditional investment fund structure, such as
managed accounts, funds-of-one and co-investment vehicles. There can be no assurance that such alternatives
will be as profitable for us as the traditional investment fund structure, or as to the impact such a trend could have
on the cost of our operations or profitability. Moreover, certain institutional investors are demonstrating a preference
to make direct investments in alternative assets without the assistance of private equity advisers like us. Such
institutional investors may become our competitors and could cease to be our clients. As some existing investors
27
cease or significantly curtail making commitments to alternative investment funds, we may need to identify and
attract new investors in order to maintain or increase the size of our investment funds. There are no assurances
that we can find or secure capital commitments from new investors. If economic conditions were to deteriorate or if
we are unable to find new investors, we might raise less than our desired amount for a given fund.
If we were unable to successfully raise capital, it could materially reduce our revenue, earnings and cash
flow and adversely affect our financial prospects and condition.
We depend on a number of key personnel, and our ability to retain them and attract additional qualified
personnel is critical to our success and our growth prospects.
We depend on the diligence, skill, judgment, reputation and business contacts of our key personnel. Our
future success will depend upon our ability to retain our key personnel and our ability to recruit additional qualified
personnel. Our key personnel possess substantial experience and expertise in investing, are responsible for
locating and executing our funds’ investments, have significant relationships with the institutions that are the source
of many of our funds’ investment opportunities and in certain cases have strong relationships with our investors.
Therefore, if our key personnel join competitors or form competing companies, it could result in the loss of
significant investment opportunities and certain existing investors.
We have experienced departures of key investment professionals in the past and will do so in the future.
Any of those departures could have a negative impact on our ability to achieve our investment objectives. Indeed,
the departure for any reason of any of our most senior professionals, such as Howard Marks or Bruce Karsh, or a
significant number of our other investment professionals, could have a material adverse effect on our ability to
achieve our investment objectives, cause certain of our investors to withdraw capital they invest with us or elect not
to commit additional capital to our funds or otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business and our
prospects. The departure of some or all of those individuals could also trigger certain “key person” provisions in the
documentation governing certain of our closed-end funds, which would permit the limited partners of those funds to
suspend or terminate the funds’ investment periods or withdraw their capital prior to expiration of the applicable
lock-up date. Our key person provisions vary by both strategy and fund and, with respect to each strategy and
fund, are typically tied to multiple individuals, meaning that it would require the departure of more than one
individual to trigger the key person provisions. If key person provisions were triggered for all of our closed-end
funds with such provisions, and the investment periods for the closed-end funds were terminated, such terminations
would, as of December 31, 2017, result in a $19.4 billion decrease in AUM. As a part of a restructuring in May
2007, our senior employees exchanged their direct or indirect ownership interest in Oaktree Capital Management,
LLC, our predecessor company (“OCM”), for a new interest in OCGH that vested over time. Because 100% of
these interests have vested, affected employees may be less motivated to remain at Oaktree.
We anticipate that it will be necessary for us to add investment professionals both to grow our team and to
replace those who depart. However, the market for qualified investment professionals is extremely competitive,
both in the United States and internationally, and we may not succeed in recruiting additional personnel or we may
fail to effectively replace current personnel who depart with qualified or effective successors. Our efforts to retain
and attract investment professionals may also result in significant additional expenses, which could adversely affect
our profitability or result in an increase in the portion of our incentive income that we grant to our investment
professionals.
Our revenues are highly volatile due to the nature of our business, and we may not experience steady
earnings growth, each of which may cause the value of interests in our business to be variable.
Our non-GAAP revenues and cash flow are highly volatile, primarily due to the fact that the incentive income
we receive from our funds and the investment income we recognize on our corporate investments in funds and
companies, which individually and collectively account for a substantial portion of our income, are highly volatile. In
the case of our closed-end funds, our incentive income is recognized only when it is fixed or determinable under the
Method 1 approach offered by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”), which
typically occurs in a sporadic and unpredictable fashion. For purposes of adjusted net income, incentive income is
recognized when the underlying fund distributions are known or knowable as of the respective quarter end, which
may be later than the time at which the same incentive income is recognized under Method 1. In addition, we are
generally entitled to incentive income (other than tax distributions, which are treated as incentive income) only after
all contributed capital and profits representing, typically, an 8% annual preferred return on that capital have been
distributed to our funds’ limited partners. In the case of certain evergreen funds, we are generally entitled to receive
an annual incentive payment based upon the increase in NAV attributable to or the net profit allocated to a limited
partner during a particular calendar year, subject to a high-water mark or a preferred return hurdle. Given that the
investments made by our funds may be illiquid or volatile and that our investment results and the pace of realization
28
of our investments will vary from fund to fund and period to period, our incentive income likely will vary materially
from year to year.
We may also experience fluctuations in our operating results, from quarter to quarter or year to year, due to a
host of other factors, including changes in the values of our investments, changes in the operating results of
DoubleLine or its funds or other companies in which we have corporate investments, changes in the amount of
distributions from our funds or companies in which we have corporate investments, the pace of raising new funds
and liquidation of our old funds, dividends or interest paid in respect of investments, changes in our operating or
other expenses, the degree to which we encounter competition and general economic and market conditions. This
variability may cause our results for a particular period not to be indicative of our performance in a future period.
As noted above, the timing and amount of incentive income generated by our funds are uncertain and will
contribute to the volatility of our net income. Incentive income depends on our funds’ investment performance and
opportunities for realizing gains, which may be limited. In addition, it takes a substantial period of time to identify
attractive investment opportunities, to raise all the funds needed to make an investment and then to realize the cash
value of an investment through resale, recapitalization or other exit event. Even if an investment proves to be
profitable, it may be several years or longer before those profits can be realized in cash or other manner of
payment. We cannot predict when, or if, any realization of investments will occur. If we have a realization event in
a particular quarter, it may have a significant impact on our revenues and profits for that particular quarter, which
may not be replicated in subsequent quarters.
A small number of our open-end funds and certain evergreen funds also generate performance-based
revenues based on their investment returns as compared with a specified market index or other benchmark. As a
result, we may not earn a performance fee in a particular period even if the fund had a positive return. The
incentive income and performance fee revenues we earn are therefore dependent on, among other factors, the
NAV of the fund and, in certain cases, its performance relative to its benchmark, which may lead to volatility in our
quarterly or annual financial results.
The historical financial information included in this annual report is not necessarily indicative of our future
performance.
The historical financial information included in this annual report is not necessarily indicative of our future
financial results. This financial information does not purport to represent or predict the results of any future periods.
The results of future periods are likely to be materially different as a result of:
•
future growth that does not follow our historical trends;
• changes in the economic environment, competitive landscape and financial markets;
• new and additional costs and expenses attributable to our operations, including our operations as a public
company, as an adviser to mutual funds and business development companies, and as a company within
an extensively regulated industry;
•
increases in non-cash compensation charges relating to the vesting of OCGH and Class A units; and
• changes in corporate income tax affecting the income of certain of our Intermediate Holding Companies
that are taxed as corporations for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Our funds depend on investment cycles, and any change in such cycles could have an adverse effect on
our investment prospects.
Cyclicality is important to our business. Weak economic environments have tended to afford us our best
investment opportunities and our best relative investment performance. For example, the relative performance of
our High Yield Bond strategy has typically been strongest in difficult times when default rates are highest, and our
Distressed Debt and Control Investing funds have historically found their best investment opportunities during
downturns in the economy when credit is not as readily available. Conversely, we tend to realize value from our
investments in times of economic expansion, when opportunities to sell investments may be greater. Thus, we
depend on the cyclicality of the market in order to sustain our business and generate superior risk-adjusted returns
over extended periods. Any prolonged economic expansion or recession could have an adverse impact on certain
of our funds and materially affect our ability to deliver superior investment returns for our clients or generate
incentive or other income.
29
Our failure to deal appropriately with conflicts of interest or inter-fund governance matters could damage
our reputation and adversely affect our business.
As we have expanded the number and scope of our strategies and distribution channels, including advising
registered mutual funds and business development companies, we increasingly confront potential conflicts of
interest that we need to manage and resolve. In our view, conflicts of interest may describe two types of potential
situations: (i) where the interests of the funds we manage (or the investors in such funds) may conflict with one
another; and (ii) where our interests, as manager or adviser, may conflict with the interests of our funds or our
clients.
Examples of potential inter-fund conflicts include: (i) the allocation of investment opportunities in situations
where the investment focus of one or more of our funds overlaps (including certain instances in which funds
registered under the Investment Company Act may be precluded from participating in certain opportunities as a
result of regulatory restrictions applicable to companies with multiple types of funds with overlapping investment
focuses); (ii) opportunities to co-invest directly alongside a fund that are offered to certain fund investors rather than
to other Oaktree funds or other fund investors; (iii) investments by different funds at different levels of the capital
structure of the same issuer; (iv) receipt of material, non-public information regarding an issuer by one strategy
where another strategy does not wish to be restricted in trading the securities of that issuer; and (v) investments by
a fund into a portfolio company held or controlled by another fund. Over time we have developed general
guidelines or a course of conduct to manage these potential inter-fund governance matters, including, recently
establishing an inter-fund governance work group and standing committee composed of certain senior officers from
our non-investment groups, including our legal and compliance departments. We seek to resolve such governance
issues in good faith and with a view to the best interests of all of our clients, but there can be no assurance that we
will make the correct judgment or that our judgment will not be questioned or challenged.
In addition to the potential for conflict among our funds, we face the potential for conflict between us and our
funds or clients. These conflicts may include: (i) personal trading by our personnel in the securities of issuers held
by one or more of our funds; (ii) the allocation of investment opportunities among funds with different incentive fee
structures, or where Oaktree personnel have invested more heavily in one fund than another; (iii) the use of
subscription lines by our funds, which, among other things, may cause fund investors to indirectly bear interest
expense when such investors would prefer to contribute capital and avoid the interest expense; and (iv) the
determination of what constitutes fund-related expenses and the allocation of such expenses between our advised
funds and us. We maintain internal controls and various policies and procedures, including oversight, codes of
ethics and conduct, compliance systems and communication tools, to identify, prevent, mitigate or resolve conflicts
of interest that may arise. Notwithstanding these efforts, it is possible that perceived or actual conflicts could give
rise to investor dissatisfaction or litigation or regulatory enforcement actions. Appropriately dealing with conflicts of
interest is complex and difficult, and any mistake could potentially create liability or damage our reputation.
Regulatory scrutiny of, or litigation in connection with, conflicts of interest could have a material adverse effect on
our reputation, which in turn could materially adversely affect our business in a number of ways, such as causing
investors to redeem their capital (to the degree they have that right), making it harder for us to raise new funds and
discouraging others from doing business with us.
The investment management business is intensely competitive.
The investment management business is intensely competitive, with competition based on a variety of
factors, including investment performance, the quality of service provided to clients, brand recognition and business
reputation. Our investment management business competes for clients, personnel and investment opportunities
with a large number of private equity funds, specialized investment funds, hedge funds, corporate buyers, traditional
investment managers, commercial banks, investment banks, other investment managers and other financial
institutions, and we expect that competition will increase. Numerous factors serve to increase our competitive risks,
some of which are outside of our control:
• a number of our competitors have more personnel and greater financial, technical, marketing and other
resources than we do, and, in the case of some competitors, longer operating histories, more established
relationships and/or greater experience;
• many of our competitors have raised, or are expected to raise, significant amounts of capital, and many of
them have investment objectives similar to ours, which may create additional competition for investment
opportunities and reduce the size and duration of pricing inefficiencies that we seek to exploit;
• some of our competitors (including strategic competitors) may have a lower cost of capital and access to
funding sources that are not available to us, which may create competitive disadvantages for us with
30
respect to our funds, particularly our funds that directly use leverage or rely on debt financing of their
portfolio companies to generate superior investment returns;
• some of our competitors have higher risk tolerances, different risk assessments or lower return thresholds,
which could allow them to consider a wider variety of investments and to bid more aggressively than us for
investments;
• our competitors may be able to achieve synergistic cost savings in respect of an investment that we
cannot, which may provide them with a competitive advantage in bidding for an investment;
•
there are relatively few barriers to entry impeding new investment funds, and the successful efforts of new
entrants into our various lines of business, including major commercial and investment banks and other
financial institutions, have resulted in increased competition;
• some investors may prefer to invest with an investment manager whose equity securities are not traded
on a national securities exchange;
• some investors may prefer to pursue investments directly instead of investing through one of our funds;
and
• other industry participants will from time to time seek to recruit our investment professionals and other
employees away from us.
We may find it harder to raise funds, and we may lose investment opportunities in the future, if we do not
match or improve on the fees, structures, products and terms offered by competitors to their fund clients.
Alternatively, we may experience decreased profitability, rates of return and increased risk of loss if we match or
improve on the prices, structures, products and terms offered by competitors. This competitive pressure could
adversely affect our ability to make successful investments and limit our ability to raise future funds, either of which
would adversely impact our business, revenues, results of operations and cash flow.
The increasing number of investment managers dedicated to our markets and the increasing amount of
capital available to them have made it more difficult to identify market opportunities in which to invest, and
this could lead to a decline in our returns on investments.
The asset management market has grown at a rapid pace during the last several years, leading to
substantial growth in assets under management in our industry. Our success in the past has largely been a result
of our ability to identify and exploit non-mainstream markets with the potential for attractive returns. Although
investment managers worldwide have expanded the range of their investments in terms of transaction sizes,
industries and geographical regions, there are a finite number of available investment opportunities at any given
time. Particularly in strong economic times, the most attractive opportunities generally are pursued by an
increasing number of managers with increasing amounts to invest and, as a result, it is sometimes difficult for us to
identify markets that are capable of generating attractive investment returns. If we are unable to identify a sufficient
number of attractive investment opportunities in the future, our returns will decline. This development would have
an adverse impact on our AUM and on our results of operations.
Poor performance of our funds would cause a decline in our revenues, net income and cash flow and could
adversely affect our ability to raise capital for future funds.
When any of our funds perform poorly, either by incurring losses or underperforming benchmarks or our
competitors, our investment record suffers. Poor investment performance by our funds also adversely affects our
incentive income and, all else being equal, may lead to a decline in our AUM, resulting in a reduction of our
management fees for certain funds. Moreover, in such circumstances, we may experience losses on our
investments of our own capital. If a fund performs poorly, we will receive little or no incentive income with regard to
the fund and little income or possibly losses from our own principal investment in the fund. Poor performance of our
funds could also make it more difficult for us to raise new capital. Investors in our closed-end funds may decline to
invest in future closed-end funds we raise, and investors in our open-end and evergreen funds may withdraw their
investments in the funds (on specified withdrawal dates) as a result of poor performance. Our investors and
potential investors continually assess our funds’ performance, both on a standalone basis and relative to market
benchmarks and our competitors, and our ability to raise capital for existing and future funds and avoid excessive
redemption levels depends on our funds’ performance.
31
We may not be able to maintain our current fee structure as a result of industry pressure from clients to
reduce fees, which could have an adverse effect on our profit margins and results of operations.
We may not be able to maintain our current fee structure as a result of industry pressure from clients to
reduce fees. Although our investment management fees vary among and within asset classes, historically we have
competed primarily on the basis of our performance and not on the level of our investment management fees
relative to those of our competitors. In recent years, however, there has been a general trend toward lower fees in
the investment management industry, and we have in certain cases lowered the fees we charge in order to remain
competitive. Additionally, we have afforded, and reserve the right in our sole discretion to continue to afford, certain
clients more favorable economic terms, including with respect to management fee rates and carried interest rates,
in cases where such clients have committed capital to our funds or strategies that in the aggregate exceeds certain
threshold amounts. In order to maintain our fee structure in a competitive environment, we must be able to
continue to provide clients with investment returns and service that incentivize our investors to pay our current fee
rates. We cannot provide any assurance that we will succeed in providing investment returns and service that will
allow us to maintain our current fee structure. Fee reductions on existing or new business could have an adverse
effect on our profit margins and results of operations. For more information about our fees please see
“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
We have experienced significant growth in our operations outside the United States, which may place
significant demands on our administrative, operational and financial resources.
In recent years, the scope and relative share of our non-U.S. operations have grown significantly. As of
December 31, 2017, we, our affiliates and affiliates of our funds had offices in 14 cities outside the United States,
housing over one-fifth of our personnel. This rapid growth has placed and may continue to place significant
demands on our business infrastructure. Pursuing investment opportunities outside the United States presents
challenges not faced by U.S. investments, such as different legal, tax and regulatory regimes and currency
fluctuations, which require additional resources to address. In addition, in conducting business in these
jurisdictions, we are often faced with the challenge of ensuring that our activities are consistent with U.S. or other
laws with extraterritorial application, such as the USA PATRIOT Act and the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
(“FCPA”). Moreover, actively pursuing international investment opportunities may require that we increase the size
or number of our international offices. Pursuing international clients means that we must comply with foreign laws
governing the sale of interests in our funds, different investor reporting and information processes and other
requirements. As a result of these and other challenges, we are required to continuously develop our systems and
infrastructure in response to the increasing complexity and sophistication of the investment management market
and legal, accounting and regulatory situations. Moreover, this growth has required, and will continue to require, us
to incur significant additional expenses and to commit additional senior management and operational resources.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to manage our expanding international operations effectively or that
we will be able to continue to grow this part of our business, and any failure to do so could adversely affect our
ability to generate revenues and control our expenses.
We may enter into new lines of business, make strategic investments or acquisitions or enter into joint
ventures, each of which may result in additional risks and uncertainties for our business.
Our operating agreement permits us to enter into new lines of business, make future strategic investments or
acquisitions and enter into joint ventures. As we have in the past, and subject to market conditions, we may grow
our business by increasing AUM in existing investment strategies, pursue new investment strategies, which may be
similar or complementary to our existing strategies or be wholly new initiatives, or enter into strategic relationships,
such as our current relationship with DoubleLine, or joint ventures. In addition, opportunities may arise to acquire
other alternative or traditional investment managers.
To the extent we make strategic investments or acquisitions, enter into strategic relationships or joint
ventures or enter into new lines of business, we will face numerous risks and uncertainties, including risks
associated with the required investment of capital and other resources and with combining or integrating operational
and management systems and controls and managing potential conflicts. Entry into certain lines of business may
subject us to new laws and regulations with which we are not familiar, or from which we are currently exempt, and
may lead to increased litigation and regulatory risk. If a new business generates insufficient revenues, or produces
investment losses, or if we are unable to efficiently manage our expanded operations, our results of operations will
be adversely affected, and our reputation and business may be harmed. In the case of joint ventures, we are
subject to additional risks and uncertainties in that we may be dependent upon, and subject to liability, losses or
reputational damage relating to, systems, controls and personnel that are not under our control.
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We may not be successful in expanding into new investment strategies, markets and lines of business.
We actively consider the opportunistic expansion of our business, both geographically and into new
investment strategies. For example, in recent years we have focused on expanding into products for real estate,
senior loans, listed equities, corporate debt, collateralized loan obligations, infrastructure investments, and direct
lending. Additionally, we have focused on broadening our distribution channels, including joint ventures and other
strategic partnerships, subadvisory and retail and high net worth offerings. For example, in 2014 we launched our
first directly advised mutual fund registered under the Investment Company Act, and in 2017 we completed a
transaction in which we became the new investment adviser to two BDCs: Oaktree Specialty Lending Corporation
(NASDAQ: OCSC) and Oaktree Strategic Income Corporation (NASDAQ: OCSI). These and other expansion
efforts may result in adding personnel and growing investment teams. We may not be successful in any such
attempted expansion. Attempts to expand our business involve a number of special risks, including some or all of
the following:
•
•
the diversion of management’s attention from our existing business;
the disruption of our existing business;
• potential conflicts of interest with existing products;
• entry into markets or lines of business in which we may have limited or no experience;
• exposure to new market risks;
• assumption of liabilities in acquired businesses;
•
increased fees and expenses related to outside accounts, tax professionals, legal advisers, consultants
and other service providers;
•
increased costs and demands on our operational systems;
• potential increase in investor concentration; and
•
increased risks associated with U.S. or foreign regulatory requirements or conducting operations in foreign
jurisdictions.
Because we continuously evaluate potential new investment strategies, geographic markets and lines of
business, we cannot identify all the risks we may face and the potential adverse consequences on us that may
result from any attempted expansion.
We often pursue investment opportunities that involve business, regulatory, legal or other complexities.
We often pursue unusually complex investment opportunities involving substantial business, regulatory or
legal complexity that would deter other investment managers. Our tolerance for complexity presents risks, as such
transactions can be more difficult, expensive and time-consuming to finance and execute; it can be more difficult to
manage or realize value from the assets acquired in such transactions; and such transactions sometimes entail a
higher level of regulatory scrutiny or a greater risk of contingent liabilities. Any of these risks could harm the
performance of our funds.
Extensive regulation in the United States and abroad affects our activities and creates the potential for
significant liabilities and penalties that could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Potential regulatory action poses a significant risk to our reputation and our business. Our business is
subject to extensive regulation in the United States and in the other countries in which our investment activities
occur, including periodic examinations, inquiries and investigations by governmental and self-regulatory
organizations in the jurisdictions in which we operate around the world. Many of these regulators, including U.S.
federal and state and foreign government agencies and self-regulatory organizations, are empowered to impose
fines, suspensions of personnel or other sanctions, including censure, the issuance of cease-and-desist orders or
the suspension or expulsion of applicable licenses and memberships. Even if an investigation did not result in a
sanction, or the sanction imposed against us or our personnel were small in monetary amount, adverse publicity
relating to the investigation could harm our reputation and cause us to lose existing investors or fail to gain new
investors.
The SEC oversees the activities of our subsidiary Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. as a registered
investment adviser under the Advisers Act, the activities of certain mutual funds registered under the Investment
Company Act that are advised or sub-advised by us and the activities of our BDCs. In particular, the SEC and its
staff have focused on issues relevant to alternative asset management firms in recent years, including by forming
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specialized units devoted to examining such firms and, in certain cases, bringing enforcement actions against such
firms, their principals and their employees. Recently, the SEC has announced that the 2018 examination priorities
for the Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations (“OCIE”) include such items as cybersecurity
compliance and controls and anti-money laundering controls, among others. Additionally, the CFTC and the NFA
oversee the activities of Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. as a registered commodity pool operator (“CPO”) and
commodity trading adviser (“CTA”) under the Commodity Exchange Act. The SEC and FINRA oversee the activities
of our subsidiary OCM Investments, LLC as a registered broker-dealer. In addition, we regularly rely on exemptions
from various requirements of the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, the Investment Company Act, the Commodity
Exchange Act and the U.S. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”). These exemptions are
sometimes highly complex and may in certain circumstances depend on compliance by third parties whom we do
not control. If for any reason these exemptions were to be revoked or challenged or otherwise become unavailable
to us, we could be subject to regulatory action or third-party claims, and our business could be materially and
adversely affected.
We have and may become subject to additional regulatory and compliance burdens as we expand our
product offerings and investment platform. In 2014, we launched our first directly advised mutual funds and in 2017
we became the new investment adviser to the BDCs, which are subject to the rules and regulations applicable to
investment companies and business development companies, respectively, under the Investment Company Act.
We are required to invest our mutual funds’ assets in accordance with limitations under the Investment Company
Act and applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”). In addition, we are required to file
periodic and annual reports with the SEC and may also be required to comply with the applicable provisions of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”). Furthermore, advisers to mutual funds and business
development companies have a fiduciary duty under the Investment Company Act not to charge excessive
compensation, and the Investment Company Act grants shareholders of mutual funds and business development
companies a direct private right of action against investment advisers to seek redress for alleged violations of this
fiduciary duty.
Additionally, in 2015 an indirect subsidiary of ours registered as an alternative investment fund manager
(“AIFM”) in Luxembourg pursuant to the European Union Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (the
“Directive”). Such registration carries additional legal and compliance costs, as well as additional operating
requirements that may also increase costs (for instance, the requirement that funds offered pursuant to the
Directive retain an independent depository regulated by the EU). These requirements could increase our
compliance costs and create the potential for additional liabilities and penalties if we fail to comply with the
applicable rules and regulations.
Each of the regulatory bodies with jurisdiction over us has regulatory powers dealing with many aspects of
financial services, including the authority to grant, and in specific circumstances to cancel, permissions to carry on
particular activities. A failure to comply with the applicable obligations imposed by the Advisers Act and the
Investment Company Act, including recordkeeping, custody, advertising and operating requirements, disclosure
obligations and prohibitions on fraudulent activities, could result in investigations, sanctions and reputational
damage. Similarly, a failure to comply with the obligations imposed by the Commodity Exchange Act, including
recordkeeping, reporting requirements, disclosure obligations and prohibitions on fraudulent activities, could also
result in investigations, sanctions and reputational damage. We are involved regularly in trading activities that
implicate a broad number of U.S. securities law regimes, including laws governing trading on inside information,
market manipulation and a broad number of technical trading requirements that implicate fundamental market
regulation policies. Violation of these laws could result in severe restrictions on our activities and damage to our
reputation.
Our failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations could result in fines, censure, suspensions of
personnel or other sanctions, including revocation of the registration of our relevant subsidiary as an investment
adviser, CPO, CTA or registered broker-dealer. The regulations to which our business is subject are designed
primarily to protect investors in our funds and to ensure the integrity of the financial markets. They are not designed
to protect our Class A unitholders. Even if a sanction imposed against us, one of our subsidiaries or our personnel
by a regulator is for a small monetary amount, the adverse publicity related to the sanction could harm our
reputation, which in turn could materially adversely affect our business in a number of ways, such as causing
investors to redeem their capital (to the extent they have that right), making it harder for us to raise new funds and
discouraging others from doing business with us.
Some of our funds invest in businesses that operate in highly regulated industries, including businesses
that are regulated by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission, the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission, U.S. federal and state banking authorities and U.S. state gaming authorities. The regulatory regimes
34
to which such businesses are subject may, among other things, condition our funds’ ability to invest in those
businesses upon the satisfaction of applicable ownership restrictions or qualification requirements or, absent any
applicable exemption, require us or our subsidiaries to comply with registration, reporting or other requirements.
Moreover, our failure to obtain or maintain any regulatory approvals necessary for our funds to invest in such
industries may disqualify our funds from participating in certain investments or require our funds to divest
themselves of certain assets.
We and our affiliates from time to time are required to report specified dealings or transactions involving
Iran or other sanctioned individuals or entities.
The Iran Threat Reduction and Syrian Human Rights Act of 2012 (the “ITRA”) expanded the scope of U.S.
sanctions against Iran. Section 219 of ITRA amended the Exchange Act to require public reporting companies to
disclose in their annual or quarterly reports specified dealings or transactions the company or its affiliates engaged
in during the previous reporting period involving Iran or other individuals and entities targeted by certain OFAC
sanctions. In January 2016, the United States entered into the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (the “JCPOA”)
with Iran and several other countries. The JCPOA set up the framework for scaling back some of the U.S.
sanctions towards Iran – the most notable change being the issuance of General License H which allows for foreign
subsidiaries of U.S. companies to engage in dealings or transactions that are otherwise prohibited for their U.S.
parent and which had previously been disallowed under the ITRA. These changes, however, did not amend the
SEC reporting requirements. In some cases, the ITRA requires companies to disclose transactions even if they
were permissible under U.S. law or were conducted outside of the United States by a foreign affiliate. Should we
be required to file such a disclosure, the SEC will post notice of the filing on its website and make a report to the
U.S. President and certain U.S. Congressional committees. The U.S. President must then undertake an
investigation to determine whether sanctions should be imposed. Disclosure of such activity, even if such activity is
not subject to sanctions under applicable law, could harm our reputation and have a negative impact on our
business. Additionally, any imposition of sanctions on us or our affiliates could harm our reputation and have a
negative impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Regulatory changes in the United States, regulatory compliance failures and the effects of negative
publicity surrounding the financial industry in general could adversely affect our reputation, business and
operations.
The business in which we operate both in and outside the United States may be subject to new or additional
regulations from time to time. We may be adversely affected as a result of new or revised legislation or regulations
imposed by the SEC, the CFTC or other U.S. governmental regulatory authorities or self-regulatory organizations
that supervise the financial markets. We also may be adversely affected by changes in the interpretation or
enforcement of existing laws and rules by these governmental authorities and self-regulatory organizations. For
example, in recent years, senior officials at the SEC have shown a willingness to pursue even violations that could
be viewed as minor on the theory that publicly pursuing smaller matters will reduce the prevalence of larger matters.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), enacted in 2010,
has imposed significant changes on nearly every aspect of the U.S. financial services industry, including oversight
and regulation of systemic market risk (including the power to liquidate certain institutions); authorization of the
Federal Reserve to regulate nonbank institutions that are deemed systemically important; generally prohibiting
insured depository institutions, insured depository institution holding companies and their subsidiaries and affiliates
from conducting proprietary trading and investing in or sponsoring certain private equity funds and hedge funds;
and imposing new registration, recordkeeping and reporting requirements on private fund investment advisers.
While we already have one subsidiary registered as an investment adviser subject to SEC examinations and as a
CPO and CTA subject to CFTC regulation and another subsidiary registered as a broker-dealer subject to FINRA
examinations, the imposition of any additional legal or regulatory requirements could make compliance more
difficult and expensive, affect the manner in which we conduct our business and adversely affect our profitability.
The Dodd-Frank Act established a ten-member Financial Stability Oversight Council (the “Council”), an
interagency body chaired by the Secretary of the Treasury, to identify and manage systemic risk in the financial
system and improve interagency cooperation. Under the Dodd-Frank Act, the Council has the authority to review
the activities of certain nonbank financial firms engaged in financial activities that are designated as “systemically
important,” meaning, among other things, that the distress of the financial firm would threaten the stability of the
U.S. economy. While no asset managers have been designated to date, if we were to be designated, it would result
in increased regulation of our business, including higher standards on capital, leverage, liquidity, risk management,
credit exposure reporting and concentration limits, restrictions on acquisitions and annual stress tests by the
Federal Reserve.
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On December 10, 2013, the Federal Reserve and other federal regulatory agencies issued final rules
implementing a section of the Dodd-Frank Act that has become known as the “Volcker Rule.” The Volcker Rule
generally prohibits depository institution holding companies (including foreign banks with U.S. branches, agencies
or commercial lending companies and insurance companies with U.S. depository institution subsidiaries), insured
depository institutions and subsidiaries and affiliates of such entities from investing in or sponsoring private equity
funds or hedge funds and from engaging in certain other proprietary activities, subject to various exemptions and
exceptions.
Pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, the SEC adopted a rule requiring investment advisers registered or required
to register with the SEC under the Advisers Act that advise one or more private funds and have at least $150 million
in private fund AUM to periodically file reports on Form PF. Under the rule, large private fund investment advisers,
or advisers with at least $1.5 billion in AUM attributable to hedge funds and advisers with at least $2.0 billion in AUM
attributable to private equity funds, are subject to more detailed and in certain cases more frequent reporting
requirements. As a result of this rule we file quarterly reports on Form PF, which has resulted in substantial
administrative costs and requires a significant amount of time and attention to be spent by our personnel.
In addition, the CFTC repealed CFTC Regulation 4.13(a)(4), an exemption from registration as a CPO, on
which we previously relied in operating our funds. As a result, one of our subsidiaries, Oaktree Capital
Management, L.P., has registered with the CFTC as a CPO and CTA with respect to the management of our funds.
In connection with such registrations, we also rely on the CFTC’s Regulation 4.7 exemption, which provides a CPO
and a CTA relief from certain of the Commodity Exchange Act’s disclosure, reporting and recordkeeping
requirements applicable to CPOs and CTAs, subject to certain conditions. The operators of funds relying upon the
exemption provided by CFTC Regulation 4.7, unlike a fully-registered CPO, will not be required to file any offering
memorandum with the CFTC, and the CFTC will not pass upon the merits of participating in a pool or upon the
adequacy or accuracy of an offering memorandum. Nonetheless, CPOs and CTAs that qualify for relief under
Regulation 4.7 remain subject to certain disclosure, reporting and recordkeeping requirements that could adversely
affect our ability to implement our investment program, conduct our operations and/or achieve our objectives and
subject us to certain additional costs, expenses and administrative burdens.
For some of our other funds that trade in commodity interests, we rely on the de minimis exemption provided
by CFTC Regulation 4.13(a)(3). For those funds that rely upon the exemption provided by CFTC Regulation
4.13(a)(3), unlike pools operated on a registered basis as a CPO by the CFTC, the operators of such pools are not
required to provide prospective investors with a CFTC compliant disclosure document, nor are the operators
required to provide participants with periodic account statements or certified annual reports that satisfy the
requirements of CFTC rules applicable to registered CPOs.
However, these funds are subject to certain limits on their ability to use commodity futures (which include
futures on broad-based securities indexes and interest rate futures) or options on commodity futures, engage in
swaps transactions or make certain other investments (whether directly or indirectly through investments in other
investment vehicles). If our funds do not continue to claim the exclusion, they would likely become subject to
registration and regulation as CPOs. As a result, we may incur additional expenses as a result of the CFTC’s
registration and regulatory requirements.
Certain mutual funds advised by us also rely on the exemption provided by CFTC Regulation 4.5, which
provides a CPO and a CTA relief from the obligation to provide prospective investors with a CFTC compliant
disclosure document, periodic account statements or certified annual reports that satisfy the requirements of CFTC
rules applicable to registered CPOs. Our publicly-traded BDCs rely on a no-action letter for similar relief.
In the event we determine to cease or to limit investing in swaps or other assets rather than subject
ourselves to all of the regulations of the CFTC, our ability to implement our investment objectives for our funds and
to hedge risks associated with our funds’ investments and operations may be materially impaired. Furthermore, the
CFTC has substantial enforcement power with respect to violations of the laws over which it has jurisdiction,
including their anti-fraud and anti-manipulation provisions. Among other things, the CFTC may suspend or revoke
the registration of a person who fails to comply, prohibit such a person from trading or doing business with
registered entities, impose civil money penalties, require restitution and seek fines or imprisonment for criminal
violations. Additionally, a private right of action exists against those who violate the laws over which the CFTC has
jurisdiction or who willfully aid, abet, counsel, induce or procure a violation of those laws. In the event our
registration with the CFTC as a CPO or CTA is rescinded or restricted and we are unable to rely on an exemption
from registration or we otherwise fail to comply with the regulatory requirements of these rules, we may be unable
to use certain types of hedging instruments or may be subject to significant fines, penalties and other civil or
governmental actions or proceedings, any of which could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and results of operations.
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In addition, pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, the SEC and other federal regulatory agencies have issued final
rules requiring managers of CLOs to retain at least 5% of the credit risk in each CLO they manage (the “U.S. Risk
Retention Rules”). Therefore, the U.S. Risk Retention Rules, which came fully into effect in December 2016, will
require us to contribute a minimum level of capital to our CLOs. The U.S. Risk Retention Rules could result in
reduced CLO origination activity by us, result in increased investment by us in our CLOs and could adversely affect
the market for CLOs more generally, which could adversely affect the performance and prospects for our CLO
activity. Certain industry participants have filed suit challenging certain aspects of the U.S. Risk Retention Rules.
On February 9, 2018, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issued a decision which, if not appealed
further, would curtail the application of certain aspects of the U.S. Risk Retention Rules with respect to certain CLO
managers (including Oaktree). We are currently evaluating the impact of that decision on our CLO origination
activity.
It is difficult to determine the full extent of the impact on us of any new laws, regulations or initiatives that
may be proposed or whether any of the proposals will become law. Any changes in the regulatory framework
applicable to our business, including the changes described above, may impose additional costs on us, require the
attention of our senior management or result in limitations on the manner in which we conduct our business.
Moreover, as calls for additional regulation have increased, there may be a related increase in regulatory
investigations of the trading and other investment activities of alternative asset management funds, including our
funds. In addition, we may be adversely affected by changes in the interpretation or enforcement of existing laws
and rules by these governmental authorities and self-regulatory organizations. Compliance with any new laws or
regulations could make our overall compliance activities more difficult and expensive, affect the manner in which we
conduct our business and adversely affect our profitability.
Changes in law and government regulations may adversely affect our business, financial condition and
results of operations.
The current regulatory environment in the United States may be impacted by future legislative
developments, such as amendments to key provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. On January 20, 2017, Donald Trump
became President of the United States. President Trump’s legislative agenda may include certain deregulatory
measures for the U.S. financial services industry, including changes to the Volcker Rule, capital and risk retention
requirements, the Council’s authority and other aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act. On February 3, 2017, President
Trump signed an executive order calling for the administration to review U.S. financial laws and regulations in order
to determine their consistency with a set of core principles identified in the order.
It remains unclear whether any particular legislative or regulatory proposals will be enacted or adopted. In
addition, it is not possible to determine the full extent of any impact on us or any of the portfolio companies of our
funds of any such potential financial reform legislation, or whether any such proposal will become law. Any changes
in the regulatory framework applicable to our business or the businesses of the portfolio companies of our funds,
including the changes described above, may impose additional costs, require the attention of our senior
management or result in limitations on the manner in which business is conducted, or may ultimately have an
adverse impact on the competitiveness of certain nonbank financial service providers vis-à-vis traditional banking
organizations.
Regulatory changes in jurisdictions outside the United States could adversely affect our business.
Certain of our subsidiaries operate outside the United States. In the United Kingdom, Oaktree Capital
Management (UK) LLP is subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority. In Hong Kong, Oaktree Capital
(Hong Kong) Limited is subject to regulation by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission. In Singapore,
Oaktree Capital Management Pte. Ltd. is subject to regulation by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. In Japan,
Oaktree Japan, GK is subject to regulation by the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. In Luxembourg, Oaktree Capital
Management (Lux) S.à r.l. is subject to regulation by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier. Our
other European and Asian operations and our investment activities worldwide are subject to a variety of regulatory
regimes that vary by country. In addition, we regularly rely on exemptions from various requirements of the
regulations of certain foreign countries in conducting our asset management and fundraising activities.
Each of the regulatory bodies with jurisdiction over us has regulatory powers dealing with many aspects of
financial services, including the authority to grant, and in specific circumstances to cancel, permissions to carry on
particular activities. We are involved regularly in trading activities that implicate a broad number of foreign (as well
as U.S.) securities law regimes, including laws governing trading on inside information and market manipulation and
a broad number of technical trading requirements that implicate fundamental market regulation policies.
Additionally, we must comply with foreign laws governing the sale of interests in our funds and laws that govern
other business activities. Violation of these laws could result in severe penalties, restrictions or prohibitions on our
37
activities and damage to our reputation, which in turn could materially adversely affect our business in a number of
ways, such as causing investors to redeem their capital (to the degree they have that right), making it harder for us
to raise new funds and discouraging others from doing business with us.
Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive
The European Union Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive took effect on July 22, 2013. The
Directive applies to (a) AIFMs established in the European Union (the “EU”) that manage EU or non-EU alternative
investment funds (“AIFs”), (b) non-EU AIFMs that manage EU AIFs and (c) non-EU AIFMs that market their AIFs to
professional investors within the EU. Accordingly, individual EU member states have adopted rules and regulations
implementing the Directive into domestic law, and member states are free to impose additional rules that are stricter
than the minimum required by the Directive.
The Directive imposes detailed operating requirements on EU AIFMs managing AIFs. EU AIFMs must
comply with the requirements of the Directive and be appropriately authorized or have submitted an application for
authorization. EU AIFMs and non-EU AIFMs seeking to market an AIF within the EU must comply with the
Directive’s disclosure and transparency requirements and (in the case of non-EU AIFMs) jurisdiction specific private
placement regimes (which have changed as a result of the Directive).
The full scope of the Directive may also be extended to non-EU AIFMs that wish to market an AIF within the
EU pursuant to a pan-European marketing passport instead of under national private placement regimes.
The operating requirements imposed by the Directive include, among other things, rules relating to the
remuneration of certain personnel, minimum regulatory capital requirements, restrictions on use of leverage,
restrictions on early distributions relating to portfolio companies (so-called “asset stripping” rules), disclosure and
reporting requirements to both investors and home state regulators, the independent valuation of an AIF’s assets
and the appointment of an independent depository to hold assets. As a result, the Directive could have an adverse
effect on our business by, among other things, increasing the regulatory burden and costs of doing business in or
relating to EU member states, imposing extensive disclosure obligations on, and asset stripping rules with respect
to, companies, if any, in which any of our fund(s) invest that are located in EU member states, significantly
restricting marketing activities within the EU, potentially requiring our fund(s) to change their compensation
structures for key personnel, thereby affecting our ability to recruit and retain these personnel, and potentially
disadvantaging our funds as investors in private companies located in EU member states when compared to non-
AIF/AIFM competitors that may not be subject to the requirements of the Directive, thereby potentially restricting our
funds’ ability to make investments in such companies.
The Directive could also limit our operating flexibility and our investment opportunities, as well as expose us
and/or our funds to conflicting regulatory requirements in the United States (and elsewhere) and the EU.
Risk Retention and Due Diligence Requirements
Similar to the U.S. Risk Retention Rules, the EU has adopted rules that prevent certain investors from
investing in EU CLOs that we originate unless, among other things, we retain at least a 5% ownership stake in the
CLO and meet certain heightened due diligence requirements (the “EU Risk Retention and Due Diligence
Requirements”). On September 30, 2015, the European Commission proposed new regulations that would recast
the application of the EU Risk Retention and Due Diligence Requirements. Following protracted negotiations, the
European Commission, European Council of Ministers and European Parliament each announced on May 30, 2017
that a political agreement had been reached in principle regarding these new regulations. The Securitization
Regulation entered into force on January 17, 2018, but will apply on and from January 1, 2019 to securitizations the
securities of which are issued on or after such date. These new regulations could result in reduced EU CLO activity
by us and have a negative impact on the price and liquidity of EU CLOs and could adversely affect our EU CLO
activity. Failure to comply with one or more of the requirements may result in various penalties including the
imposition of a punitive capital charge on the notes issued by our EU CLOs.
Solvency II
Solvency II is an EU directive that sets out stronger capital adequacy and risk management requirements for
European insurers and reinsurers and, in particular, dictates how much capital such firms must hold against their
liabilities. Solvency II came into effect on January 1, 2016. Solvency II imposes, among other things, substantially
greater quantitative and qualitative capital requirements for insurers and reinsurers as well as other supervisory and
disclosure requirements. We are not subject to Solvency II; however, many of our European insurer or reinsurer
fund investors will be subject to this directive, as applied under applicable domestic law. Solvency II may impact
insurers’ and reinsurers’ investment decisions and their asset allocations. In addition, insurers and reinsurers will
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be subject to more onerous data collation and reporting requirements. As a result, Solvency II could in the future
have an adverse indirect effect on our business by, among other things, restricting the ability of European insurers
and reinsurers to invest in our funds and imposing on us extensive disclosure and reporting obligations for those
insurers and reinsurers that do invest in our funds.
OECD
Changes in tax laws by foreign jurisdictions could arise as a result of BEPS projects being undertaken by the
OECD (each as defined below). These contemplated changes, if finalized and adopted by countries, could
increase uncertainty faced by us, our business and our investors, change our business model or increase the cost
of acquiring businesses. The timing or impact of these proposals is unclear at this point. There are also continual
changes to tax laws, regulations and interpretations regularly which could impact our structures or the returns to
investors.
MiFID II
The existing MiFID regime regulating the provision of investment services and activities throughout the EU
has been substantially amended by MiFID II, effective January 3, 2018. MiFID II is designed to amend the
functioning of financial markets in light of the financial crisis and to strengthen investor protection. MiFID II has
extended the MiFID requirements in a number of areas, including new inducements and research unbundling rules,
enhanced transaction reporting and post-trade transparency requirements, formal telephone taping and
communication recording requirements, and new best execution rules. MiFID II has imposed additional compliance
requirements on our European operations, increasing the cost of compliance and requiring additional management
time and resources.
GDPR
With effect from May 25, 2018, the European General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) will amend data
protection rules for individuals within the EU. Its primary purpose is to give individuals within the EU control of their
personal data and to simplify the regulatory environment for international businesses by unifying data protection
regulation within the EU. GDPR imposes more stringent rules and greater penalties for non-compliance, which both
could have an adverse effect on our business. For example, a failure to comply with the GDPR could result in fines
of up to EUR 20 million or 4% of annual global revenues, whichever is higher.
SEC rules barring so-called “bad actors” from relying on Rule 506 of Regulation D in private placements
could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Rules 501 and 506 of Regulation D under the Securities Act prohibit issuers deemed to be “bad actors” from
relying on the exemptions available under Rule 506 of Regulation D (“Rule 506”) in connection with private
placements (the “disqualification rule”). Specifically, an issuer will be precluded from conducting offerings that rely
on the exemption from registration under the Securities Act provided by Rule 506 (“Rule 506 offerings”) if a
“covered person” of the issuer has been the subject of a “disqualifying event” (each as defined below). “Covered
persons” include, among others, the issuer, affiliated issuers, any investment manager or solicitor of the issuer, any
director, executive officer or other officer participating in the offering of the issuer, any general partner or managing
member of the foregoing entities, any promoter of the issuer and any beneficial owner of 20% or more of the
issuer’s outstanding voting equity securities, calculated on the basis of voting power. A “disqualifying event”
includes, among other things, certain (1) criminal convictions and court injunctions and restraining orders issued in
connection with the purchase or sale of a security or false filings with the SEC; (2) final orders from the CFTC,
federal banking agencies and certain other regulators that bar a person from associating with a regulated entity or
engaging in the business of securities, insurance or banking or that are based on certain fraudulent conduct; (3)
SEC disciplinary orders relating to investment advisers, brokers, dealers and their associated persons; (4) SEC
cease-and-desist orders relating to violations of certain anti-fraud provisions and registration requirements of the
federal securities laws; (5) suspensions or expulsions from membership in a self-regulatory organization (“SRO”) or
from association with an SRO member; and (6) U.S. Postal Service false representation orders.
If any Oaktree covered person is subject to a disqualifying event, one or more of our funds could lose the
ability to raise capital in a Rule 506 offering for a significant period of time. Most of our funds rely on Rule 506 to
raise capital from investors during their fundraising periods. If one or more of our funds were to lose the ability to
rely on the Rule 506 exemption because an Oaktree covered person has been the subject of a disqualifying event,
our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
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Failure to comply with “pay to play” regulations implemented by the SEC and certain states, and changes
to the “pay to play” regulatory regimes, could adversely affect our business.
In recent years, the SEC and several states have initiated investigations alleging that certain private equity
firms and hedge funds or agents acting on their behalf have paid money to current or former government officials or
their associates in exchange for improperly soliciting contracts with state pension funds. The SEC has also initiated
a similar investigation into contracts awarded by sovereign wealth funds. Rule 206(4)-5 under the Advisers Act
addresses “pay to play” practices by investment advisers involving campaign contributions and other payments to
government officials able to exert influence on potential U.S. state and local government entity clients. Among other
restrictions, the rule prohibits investment advisers from providing advisory services for compensation to a
government entity for two years, subject to very limited exceptions, after the investment adviser, its senior
executives or its personnel involved in soliciting investments from government entities make contributions to certain
candidates and officials in a position to influence the hiring of an investment adviser by such government entity.
The rule does not require any showing that a donation was made with intent to exert influence. Any donation that
exceeds the limits set forth in Rule 206(4)-5 may lead to an investment adviser being required to forgo
compensation from applicable government entities for two years; to the extent such fees have already been paid,
the investment adviser may be required to forfeit the already-received compensation. Advisers are required to
implement compliance policies designed, among other matters, to track contributions by certain of the adviser’s
employees and engagements of third parties that solicit government entities and to keep certain records in order to
enable the SEC to determine compliance with the rule. Additionally, California law requires placement agents
(including in certain cases employees of investment managers) who solicit funds from California state retirement
systems, such as the California Public Employees’ Retirement System and the California State Teachers’
Retirement System, to register as lobbyists, thereby becoming subject to increased reporting requirements and
prohibited from receiving contingent compensation for soliciting investments from California state retirement
systems. New York has adopted similar rules. Such investigations may require the attention of our senior
management and may result in fines if any of our funds are deemed to have violated any laws or regulations,
thereby imposing additional expenses on us. Any failure by us or by our senior executives or personnel involved in
soliciting investment from government entities to comply with these rules could cause us to lose compensation for
our advisory services or expose us to significant penalties and reputational damage.
The derivatives that we or our funds use may subject us to increased risk of loss and may adversely affect
our results of operations.
From time to time, we and our funds enter into various derivative instruments including, but not limited to,
swaps, options, forwards, futures and options on futures, in order to manage various risks such as risks related to
interest rates, foreign-currency exchange rates or exposure to certain equity markets, or for any purposes
consistent with our or our funds’ investment objectives and strategies. Generally, a derivative is a financial contract,
the value of which depends upon, or is derived from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate, or index, and
may relate to individual debt or equity instruments, interest rates, currencies or currency exchange rates,
commodities, related indices and other assets. In the future, we and our funds may enter into additional derivative
instruments as part of risk management or in accordance with our investment strategies. Our hedging activity
varies in scope based on the level of interest rates or foreign-exchange rate, the type of portfolio investments held
and other changing market conditions.
While the judicious use of derivative instruments can be beneficial, such instruments involve risks different
from, and, in certain cases, greater than, the risks presented by more traditional investments. Our derivative
instruments used for hedging purposes may fail to protect us or our funds from the risks we sought to hedge. In
addition, derivatives used for hedging or non-hedging purposes may present various additional market and
counterparty-related risks including, but not limited to:
• derivative instruments can be expensive, particularly during periods of volatility in interest rates, foreign
currency and the prices of reference instruments;
• an imperfect or variable degree of correlation between price movements of the available derivative
instruments and the underlying asset, reference rate or index sought to be hedged may prevent us from
achieving the intended hedging effect or expose us to the risk of loss;
•
the gain (or loss) on such instruments may not fully offset the corresponding loss (or gain) in the value of
the underlying assets in our portfolio;
•
the duration of a hedge may be significantly different than the duration of the underlying liability or asset;
40
•
typically, investing in a derivative instrument requires the deposit or payment of an initial amount much
smaller than the notional or nominal exposure amount from such derivative instrument, potentially
magnifying the loss if the relevant market moves against us or our funds;
• certain derivatives may be illiquid, making them unable to be sold at the desired time or price, so that in
volatile markets we may not be able to close out a position without incurring a loss;
•
•
•
•
the credit quality of the counterparty of the hedge may be downgraded to such an extent that it impairs or
makes economically unattractive our ability to sell or assign our side of the hedging transaction;
the counterparty owing money in a hedging transaction may default on its obligation to pay, see “—
Derivative instruments often involve counterparty risks and costs”;
the cost of using certain derivative instruments may increase during a period of increased volatility, for
instance, with respect to interest rate hedges, during periods of rising and volatile interest rates and, with
respect to foreign-currency hedges, during periods of volatile foreign currencies;
the value of derivative instruments depends upon the price of the underlying asset, reference rate or
index, which may be subject to volatility;
• actual or implied daily limits on price fluctuations and speculative position limits on the exchanges or
over-the-counter markets in which we may conduct our transactions in derivative instruments may
prevent prompt liquidation of positions, subjecting us to the potential of greater losses;
• significant disparities may exist between “bid” and “asked” prices for derivative instruments that are
traded over-the-counter and not on an exchange;
•
the derivative instruments used by us may be difficult to value or involve the risk of mispricing or improper
valuation, especially where the markets for such derivative instruments are illiquid and/or such derivatives
involve complex structures, or where there is imperfect correlation between the value of the derivative
instrument and the underlying asset, reference rate or index;
• derivative contracts could require us to fund cash payments in the future under certain circumstances,
including an event of default or other early termination event, or the decision by a counterparty to request
margin in the form of securities or other forms of collateral under the terms of the derivative contract and/
or under applicable laws; and
• compared with exchange-traded instruments, the market for OTC derivatives is less liquid and the
derivative instruments used by us and our funds may be difficult to value or involve the risk of mispricing
or improper valuation, especially where the markets for such derivative instruments are illiquid and/or
such derivatives involve complex structures, or where there is imperfect correlation between the value of
a derivative instrument and the underlying asset, reference rate or index.
While we or our funds may enter into various derivative instruments for risk management and other
purposes in accordance with our investment strategies, the foregoing risks may cause us to have poorer overall
investment performance than if we had not entered into any such derivative instruments. Any derivative
transactions we or our funds enter into may adversely affect our results of operations, which in turn could adversely
affect our cash available for distribution to holders of our units.
Derivative instruments often involve counterparty risks and costs.
We and our funds will be subject to credit risk with respect to counterparties to derivative contracts and other
instruments entered into directly by us or our funds or held by special purpose or structured vehicles in which we or
our funds may invest from time to time. Counterparty risk is the risk that the other party in a derivative transaction
will not fulfill its contractual obligation. Changes in the credit quality of the entities that serve as our or our funds’
counterparties in the derivative transactions will affect the value of our derivative instruments. By entering into
derivatives, we or our funds assume the risk that these counterparties could experience financial or other hardships
that could jeopardize their continued ability to perform their contractual obligations under the derivative transactions.
Furthermore, concentrations of derivatives with any particular counterparty would subject us or our funds to an
additional degree of risk with respect to defaults by such counterparty.
If a counterparty becomes bankrupt or otherwise fails to perform its obligations under a derivative contract
with us or our funds due to financial or other difficulties, we or our funds may experience significant delays in
obtaining any recovery under the derivative contract in a dissolution, assignment for the benefit of creditors,
liquidation, winding-up, bankruptcy or other analogous proceedings. In addition, in the event of the insolvency of a
counterparty to a derivative transaction, the derivative transaction would typically be terminated at its fair market
41
value. If we or our funds are owed this fair market value upon the termination of the derivative transaction and such
claims are uncollateralized or otherwise unsecured, we or our funds will be treated as general creditors of such
counterparty, and will have limited claim with respect to the underlying assets. We or our funds may obtain only a
limited recovery or may obtain no recovery at all in such circumstances.
Some, but not all, derivatives are required by applicable laws to be cleared, in which case a central clearing
counterparty (“CCP”) stands between each buyer and seller and effectively guarantees performance of each
derivative contract, to the extent of its available resources for such purpose. As a result, the counterparty risk is
now shifted from the parties to the CCP. Even in such case, there can be no assurance that a clearing house, or its
members, will ensure the satisfaction of the clearing house’s obligations to our funds. Uncleared derivatives have
no protection from any CCP; each party bears the risk that its direct counterparty will default.
Risks relating to uncleared derivatives.
Our and our funds’ counterparty credit exposure will be greatly mitigated if we receive collateral from our
counterparties. The Prudential Regulators (as defined below) and the CFTC have adopted margin requirements for
non-cleared swaps that apply to swap entities that are prudentially regulated by the Prudential Regulators and other
swap entities regulated by the CFTC. In addition, the Prudential Regulators’ margin rules apply to non-cleared
security-based swaps entered into by entities regulated by the Prudential Regulators. The SEC has proposed but
not yet adopted final margin rules for security-based swap dealers and major security-based swap participants that
are not regulated by the Prudential Regulators. While neither our funds nor any entity through which we execute
swaps will be directly subject to these margin requirements, our funds will be indirectly impacted by the margin
requirements that could be applicable to the counterparties. Please see “Regulatory changes could occur and may
adversely affect our or our funds’ ability to pursue hedging strategies and/or increase the costs of implementing
such strategies”.
To the extent that our swap counterparty collects initial margin from our funds on uncleared swaps and
security-based swaps, our funds may request that such counterparty segregate all such initial margin posted by us
at an independent, third party custodian or at an affiliate of the counterparty that serves as a custodian. If our funds
do not request segregation of such initial margin, the custodian or counterparty may commingle such assets or
collateral with the custodian’s or counterparty’s own assets. In addition, even where our funds request segregation
of such initial margin, the custodian or counterparty may fail to segregate such assets or collateral properly. In
either case, in the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of any custodian or counterparty, our funds’ assets and
collateral may be subject to the conflicting claims of the creditors of the relevant custodian or counterparty, and our
funds may be exposed to the risk of a court treating us as a general unsecured creditor of such custodian or
counterparty, rather than as the owner of such assets or collateral.
Risks relating to cleared derivatives.
The risks arising from non-cleared derivative transactions differ materially from those entailed in transactions
that are cleared through CCPs such as U.S.-registered derivatives clearing organizations. As of the date hereof,
the CFTC requires that certain interest-rate swaps and index credit-default swaps be cleared through a CCP
(unless an exception or exemption applies), and the CFTC may expand the types of swaps (e.g., certain foreign-
currency and commodity swaps) subject to mandatory clearing. While the SEC has adopted rules establishing a
framework for determining which security-based swaps will be subject to mandatory clearing, as of the date hereof,
no such clearing determination has been issued.
Where we and our funds enter into swaps subject to mandatory clearing, we may be required to clear such
swaps at a CCP through a futures commission merchant (“FCM”) acting as clearing broker. We and our funds will
have to post initial and variation margin to CCPs through FCMs or broker-dealers (in the U.S.) or other clearing
brokers (outside the U.S.), and for swaps cleared at CCPs that are U.S.-registered derivatives clearing
organizations, such margin will be held by such CCP and FCMs in segregated accounts under the CFTC rules.
Such segregation is intended to protect the margin of swap clearing customers from the claims of other creditors of
a CCP or FCM. Furthermore, the CFTC rules implement the so-called “legally segregated, operationally
commingled” (“LSOC”) model for the segregation of swap clearing customer collateral on a customer-by-customer
basis, which is intended to protect each customer from the default of other customers of the FCM. Under the LSOC
model of segregation, any margin posted by a swap clearing customer must be segregated from the FCM’s own
property. However, the FCM may hold such customer collateral in a single account for operational convenience. If
the FCM then fails to make a margin call to a CCP due to the defaults of one or more swap clearing customers, the
CCP will only have access to the collateral of the defaulting swap clearing customers (and not the non-defaulting
customers) to cover any losses from such defaults. Such segregation, however, will not protect a clearing customer
such as our funds from any operational or fraud risk of a CCP or FCM with respect to the margin posted to the CCP
42
or FCM. In addition, the margin posted to a non-U.S. CCP through a non-U.S. clearing broker may not even be
segregated from the property of such CCP and/or clearing broker. As of the date hereof, the SEC has promulgated
no final rules for the treatment and protection of customer property, including margin, held by CCPs and broker-
dealers.
In addition, where our funds enter into certain swaps subject to mandatory clearing, we may be required to
execute such swaps on a registered designated contract market or swap execution facility (collectively, “SEFs”). As
of the date hereof, the CFTC requires that certain interest-rate swaps and index credit-default swaps be executed
on an SEF, and SEFs may self-certify additional types of interest-rate and index credit-default swaps as subject to
this requirement. The SEC has not yet adopted registration rules for security-based SEFs or a mandatory trade
execution requirement for security-based swaps. In addition, certain foreign jurisdictions may impose clearing and
trade execution requirements that could apply to our funds’ transactions with non-U.S. entities. While our funds will
benefit from reduced counterparty credit and operations risk and pricing transparency resulting from these
requirements, we will incur additional costs in trading these swaps. While our funds will attempt to execute, clear
and settle these swaps through entities we believe to be sound, there can be no assurance that a failure by such an
entity will not cause a loss to us.
Illiquidity and credit risk of derivative instruments.
We and our funds may enter into derivative transactions involving privately negotiated off-exchange
derivative instruments, including OTC credit-default swaps, total-return swaps and other derivative instruments.
There can be no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular derivative instrument at any
particular time, and we or our funds may not be able to close out a position without incurring a significant amount of
loss. OTC derivative instruments, unlike exchange-traded instruments, are not guaranteed by an exchange or
clearinghouse, and thus are generally subject to greater credit risks. In addition, we and our funds may not be able
to convince our counterparties to consent to an early termination of an OTC derivative contract or may not be able
to enter into an offsetting transaction to effectively unwind the transaction. Such OTC derivative contracts generally
are not assignable except as permitted contractually or as otherwise agreed between the parties, and, in the
absence of such contractual obligation or agreement, a counterparty typically has no obligation to permit
assignments. Moreover, even if the counterparty agrees to early termination of one or more OTC derivatives at any
time, doing so may subject us or our funds to certain early termination charges.
Regulatory changes could occur and may adversely affect our or our funds’ ability to pursue hedging
strategies and/or increase the costs of implementing such strategies.
The enforceability of agreements governing hedging transactions may depend on compliance with applicable
statutory and other regulatory requirements and, depending on the identity of the counterparty, applicable
international requirements. New or amended regulations may be imposed by the CFTC, the SEC, the Federal
Reserve, the European Commission or other financial regulators, other governmental or intergovernmental
regulatory authorities, or self-regulatory organizations that supervise the financial markets, and could adversely
affect us and our funds. In particular, these agencies are empowered to promulgate a variety of new rules pursuant
to recently enacted financial reform legislation in the United States. We and our funds also may be adversely
affected by changes in the enforcement or interpretation of statutes and rules by these regulatory authorities or self-
regulatory organizations.
In addition, the securities and futures markets are subject to comprehensive statutes and regulations. For
example, the Dodd-Frank Act could have an adverse effect on our funds’ ability to use derivative instruments. The
Dodd-Frank Act is designed to impose stringent regulation on the over-the-counter derivatives market in an attempt
to increase transparency and accountability and provides for, among other things, clearing, execution, margin,
reporting, recordkeeping, business conduct, documentation, disclosure, position limit, minimum net capital and
registration requirements. Although the CFTC has released final rules relating to clearing, execution reporting, risk
management, compliance, position limit, anti-fraud, consumer protection, portfolio reconciliation, documentation,
recordkeeping, business conduct and margin and registration requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act, many of the
provisions are subject to further final rulemaking, and thus the Dodd-Frank Act’s ultimate impact remains unclear.
New regulations could, among other things, restrict our funds’ ability to engage in derivatives transactions
(for example, by making certain types of derivatives transactions no longer available to our funds) and/or make
them less effective. In particular, new margin requirements and capital charges, even when not directly applicable
to our funds, may increase the pricing of derivatives transacted by our funds. New exchange trading and trade
reporting requirements and position limits may lead to changes in the liquidity of derivative transactions, or higher
pricing or reduced liquidity in the derivatives markets, or the reduction of arbitrage opportunities for our funds.
Limits or restrictions applicable to the counterparties with which our funds engage in derivative transactions could
43
also limit the ability of our funds in using derivative instruments, affect the pricing or other factors relating to these
instruments or may change the availability of certain investments. As a result, our funds may be unable to
effectively carry out their investment strategies.
For entities designated by the CFTC or the SEC as swap dealers (“SDs”), security-based swap dealers
(“SBSDs”), major swap participants or major security-based swap participants, the Dodd-Frank Act imposes
substantial regulatory, reporting and compliance requirements. Based on our current use of derivatives, we are not
required to register as an SD, SBSD, major swap participant or security-based major swap participant at this time.
If we are later designated as an SD, SBSD, major swap participant or major security-based swap participant, our
business will be subject to increased regulatory requirements, including registration requirements, additional
recordkeeping and reporting obligations, external and internal business conduct standards, position limits
monitoring, and capital and margin thresholds, which will in turn increase our compliance cost.
In December 2012, the CFTC issued a final rule requiring certain interest-rate swaps and index-based credit-
default swaps to be centrally cleared, which is applicable to all swap counterparties not eligible for certain narrowly-
defined exemption or exceptions. In December 2016, the CFTC further expanded the categories of interest rate
swaps subject to mandatory clearing. Such clearing requirements may affect our and our funds’ ability to negotiate
individualized terms and/or may increase the costs of entering into such swap transactions (for example, by
increasing collateral or capital requirements). Clearing mandates issued by regulators with respect to other types of
swaps could have additional impact on our ability to use derivative instruments as part of our hedging or investment
strategies.
Furthermore, on December 15, 2015, the CFTC published a final rule governing margin requirements for
uncleared swaps entered into by registered SDs and major swap participants who are not supervised by the Board
of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Farm Credit Administration and the Federal Housing Finance Agency (collectively, the
“Prudential Regulators”), referred to as “covered swap entities.” The final rule generally requires covered swap
entities, subject to certain thresholds and exemptions, to collect and post margin in respect of uncleared swap
transactions with other covered swap entities and financial end-users. In particular, the final rule requires covered
swap entities and financial end-users having “material swaps exposure,” defined as an average aggregate daily
notional amount of uncleared swaps exceeding $8 billion as calculated from June, July and August of the previous
calendar year, to collect and/or post (as applicable) a minimum amount of “initial margin” in respect of each
uncleared swap, subject to a phase-in schedule until September 1, 2020. In addition, the final rule requires covered
swap entities entering into uncleared swaps with other covered swap entities or financial end-users, regardless of
swaps exposure, to post and/or collect (as applicable) “variation margin” in reflection of changes in the mark-to-
market value of an uncleared swap since the swap was executed or the last time such margin was exchanged.
These newly adopted rules on margin requirements for uncleared swaps could limit our or our funds’ available
liquidity and use of derivatives, which could have an adverse impact on us or our funds.
The SEC has also indicated that it may adopt new policies on the use of derivatives by registered investment
companies. Such policies could affect the nature and extent of derivatives use by us or certain of our funds. On
August 31, 2011, the SEC issued a concept release to seek public comment on a wide range of issues raised by
the use of derivatives by investment companies. Then, on December 11, 2015, the SEC proposed new rules to
govern the use of derivatives by registered investment companies and business development companies
(“registered funds”). It is possible that such regulations, once adopted, could limit our funds’ use of derivatives,
which could have an adverse impact on us or our funds.
In addition to U.S. laws and regulations relating to derivatives, certain non U.S. regulatory authorities, such
as those in the EU, have passed or proposed, or may propose in the future, legislation similar to that imposed by
the Dodd Frank Act. The regulatory changes in the EU would impact a broad range of counterparties, both outside
and within the EU, and are expected to potentially increase the cost of transacting derivatives for us and our funds
(particularly with banks and other dealers directly subject to such regulations).
Additionally, in May 2016, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association published the ISDA
Resolution Stay Jurisdictional Modular Protocol (“ISDA JMP”), which is aimed at achieving the same policy goals as
the ISDA 2015 Universal Resolution Stay Protocol published in November 2015 with respect to the orderly
resolution of systemically important financial institutions. The ISDA JMP will enable parties to amend the terms of
protocol covered agreements to aid compliance with certain regulatory requirements in various jurisdictions that, in
general, require entities subject to those regulatory requirements to obtain from their counterparties a contractual
recognition of the application of stays on or overrides of certain termination rights under the home-country special
resolution regime (“SRR”) of such regulated entity (“Stay Regulations”). We have adhered to the ISDA JMP, and
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are bound by its terms. Under the terms of the ISDA JMP, the right of funds and accounts we advise could be
substantially and negatively impacted in the event of insolvency or default by one of our financial counterparties.
We are subject to substantial litigation risks and may face significant liabilities and damage to our
professional reputation as a result.
In recent years, the volume of claims and amount of damages claimed in litigation and regulatory
proceedings against investment managers have been increasing. We make investment decisions on behalf of our
clients that could result in substantial losses. This may subject us to the risk of legal liabilities or actions alleging
negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract or other causes of action. Heightened standards of care or
additional fiduciary duties may apply in certain of our managed accounts or other advisory contracts. To the extent
we enter into agreements with clients containing such terms or applicable law mandates a heightened standard of
care or duties, we could, for example, be liable to certain clients for acts of simple negligence or breach of such
duties.
Further, we may be subject to litigation arising from investor dissatisfaction with the performance of our funds
or from third-party allegations that we improperly exercised control or influence over portfolio investments or that we
are liable for actions or inactions taken by portfolio companies that such third parties argue we control. In addition,
we and our affiliates that are the investment managers and general partners of our funds, our funds themselves and
those of our employees who are our, our subsidiaries’ or the funds’ officers and directors are each exposed to the
risks of litigation specific to the funds’ investment activities and portfolio companies and, in cases where our funds
own controlling interests in public companies, to the risk of shareholder litigation by the public companies’ other
shareholders. Moreover, we are exposed to risks of litigation or investigation by investors and regulators relating to
our having engaged, or our funds having engaged, in transactions that presented conflicts of interest that were not
properly addressed. Please see also “—Extensive regulation in the United States and abroad affects our activities
and creates the potential for significant liabilities and penalties that could adversely affect our business and results
of operations.”
Substantial legal liability could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of
operations or cause significant reputational harm to us, which could seriously harm our business. We depend, to a
large extent, on our business relationships and our reputation for integrity and high-caliber professional services to
attract and retain investors. As a result, allegations of improper conduct asserted by private litigants or regulators,
regardless of whether the ultimate outcome is favorable or unfavorable to us, as well as negative publicity and
press speculation about us, our investment activities or the investment industry in general, whether or not valid,
may harm our reputation, which may be more damaging to our business than to other types of businesses.
Employee misconduct, which is difficult to detect and deter, could harm us by impairing our ability to
attract and retain clients and subject us to significant legal liability and reputational harm. Fraud and other
deceptive practices or other misconduct at the portfolio companies of our funds could similarly subject us
to liability and reputational damage and also harm our performance.
There have been a number of highly publicized cases involving fraud or other misconduct by individuals in
the financial services industry, and there is a risk that our employees could engage in misconduct that adversely
affects our business. We are subject to a number of obligations and standards arising from our investment
management business and our authority over the assets we manage. The violation of any of these obligations or
standards by any of our employees or advisors could adversely affect our clients and us. Our business often
requires that we deal with confidential matters of great significance to companies in which we may invest or to our
investors and advisory clients. If our employees improperly use or disclose confidential information, we could be
subject to regulatory sanctions and suffer serious harm to our reputation, financial position and current and future
business relationships. It is not always possible to deter employee misconduct, and the precautions we take to
prevent this activity may not be effective in all cases. If our employees engage in misconduct, or if they are
accused of misconduct, our business and our reputation could be adversely affected.
In recent years, the U.S. Department of Justice and the SEC have devoted greater resources to enforcement
of the FCPA. In addition, the United Kingdom has significantly expanded the reach of its anti-bribery laws. While
we have developed and implemented policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance by us and our
personnel with the FCPA, such policies and procedures may not be effective in all instances to prevent violations.
Any determination that we or our employees have violated the FCPA, UK anti-bribery laws or other applicable anti-
corruption laws could subject us to, among other things, civil and criminal penalties, material fines, profit
disgorgement, injunctions on future conduct, securities litigation and a general loss of investor confidence, any one
of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.
45
In addition, we may also be adversely affected if there is misconduct by personnel of portfolio companies in
which our funds invest. For example, financial fraud or other deceptive practices at such portfolio companies, or
failures by personnel at such portfolio companies to comply with anti-bribery, trade sanctions or other legal and
regulatory requirements could adversely affect our business and reputation. Such misconduct might undermine our
due diligence efforts with respect to such companies and could negatively affect the valuation of our funds’
investments. In addition, we may face increased risk of such misconduct to the extent our funds’ investment in non-
U.S. markets, particularly emerging markets, increases.
Failure to maintain the security of our information and technology networks, including personally
identifiable and client information, intellectual property and proprietary business information could have a
material adverse effect on us.
Security breaches and other disruptions of our information and technology networks could compromise our
information and intellectual property and expose us to liability, reputational harm and significant regulatory
investigation and remediation costs, which could cause material harm to our business and financial results. In the
ordinary course of our business, we collect and store sensitive data, including our proprietary business information
and intellectual property, and personally identifiable information of our employees and our clients, in our data
centers and on our networks. The secure processing, maintenance and transmission of this information are critical
to our operations. Although we take various measures and have made, and will continue to make, significant
investments to ensure the integrity of our systems and to safeguard against such failures or security breaches,
there can be no assurance that these measures and investments will provide adequate protection. Despite our
security measures, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by third parties or
breached due to employee error, malfeasance or other disruptions. Certain of our funds invest in strategic assets
having a national or regional profile or in infrastructure assets, the nature of which could expose them to a greater
risk of being subject to a terrorist attack or security breach. In addition, we and our employees may be the target of
fraudulent emails or other targeted attempts to gain unauthorized access to proprietary or sensitive information.
There has been an increase in the frequency and sophistication of the data security threats we face, with
attacks ranging from those common to businesses generally to those that are more advanced and persistent, which
may target us because, as an investment management firm, we hold confidential and other price-sensitive
information about the portfolio companies of our funds and their potential investments. As a result, we may face a
heightened risk of a security breach or disruption with respect to sensitive information resulting from an attack by
computer hackers, foreign governments or cyber terrorists. If successful, these types of attacks on our network or
other systems could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations, due to, among other
things, the loss of investor or proprietary data, interruptions or delays in our business and damage to our reputation.
Although we are not currently aware of any cyberattacks or other incidents that, individually or in the aggregate,
have materially affected, or would reasonably be expected to materially affect, our operations or financial condition,
there can be no assurance that the various procedures and controls we utilize to mitigate these threats will be
sufficient to prevent disruptions to our systems, especially because the cyberattack techniques used change
frequently and are not recognized until launched, the full scope of a cyberattack may not be realized until an
investigation has been performed and cyberattacks can originate from a wide variety of sources. The costs related
to data security threats or disruptions may not be fully insured or indemnified by other means. In addition, data
security has become a top priority for regulators around the world. For example, the SEC announced in 2018 that
one of the examination priorities for the OCIE is investment firms’ data security procedures and controls, including
testing the implementation of those controls.
A significant actual or potential theft, loss, corruption, exposure, fraudulent use or misuse of client, employee
or other personally identifiable or proprietary business data, whether by third parties or as a result of employee
malfeasance or otherwise, non-compliance with our contractual or other legal obligations regarding such data or
intellectual property or a violation of our privacy and security policies with respect to such data could result in
significant remediation and other costs, fines, litigation or regulatory actions against us. Such an event could
additionally disrupt our operations and the services we provide to clients, damage our reputation, result in a loss of
a competitive advantage, impact our ability to provide timely and accurate financial data, and cause a loss of
confidence in our services and financial reporting, which could adversely affect our business, revenues, competitive
position and investor confidence.
Additionally, the GDPR will be applicable in all European Union member states beginning May 25, 2018.
This regulation adds a broad array of requirements for handling personal data of individuals located in the EU and
the transportation of that data from the EU and could impose a fine of up to 4% of global annual revenue for
violations.
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Interruption of our information technology, communications systems or data services could disrupt our
business, result in losses and/or limit our growth.
We rely heavily on our financial, accounting, communications and other data processing systems. If our
systems do not operate properly, are disabled or are compromised, we could suffer financial loss, a disruption of
our business, liability to our funds, regulatory intervention or reputational damage. Our information technology and
communications systems are vulnerable to damage or disruption from fire, power loss, telecommunications failure,
system malfunctions, natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and floods, acts of war or terrorism,
employee errors or malfeasance, computer viruses, cyber-attacks, or other events which are beyond our control.
We depend on our headquarters in Los Angeles, where a substantial portion of our personnel are located, for
the continued operation of our business. An earthquake or other disaster or a disruption in the infrastructure that
supports our business, including a disruption involving electronic communications or other services used by us or
third parties with whom we conduct business, or directly affecting our headquarters, could have a material adverse
impact on our ability to continue to operate our business without interruption. Insurance and other safeguards might
only partially reimburse us for our losses, if at all.
In addition, we rely on third party service providers for certain aspects of our business, including software
vendors for portfolio management and accounting software, outside financial institutions for back office processing
and custody of securities and third party broker dealers for the execution of trades. An interruption or deterioration
in the performance of these third parties or failures of their information systems and technology could cause system
interruption, delays, loss, corruption or exposure of critical data or intellectual property and impair the quality of the
funds’ operations, which could impact our reputation and hence adversely affect our business. These risks could
increase as vendors increasingly offer cloud-based software services rather than software services that can be
operated within our own data centers. Our portfolio companies also rely on data processing systems and the
secure processing, storage and transmission of information, including payment and health information. A disruption
or compromise of these systems could have a material adverse effect on the value of these businesses. Such an
event may have adverse consequences on our investments or assets of the same type, or may require portfolio
companies to increase preventative security measures or expand insurance coverage.
Any such interruption or deterioration in our operations could result in substantial recovery and remediation
costs and liability to our clients, business partners and other third parties. While we have implemented disaster
recovery plans and backup systems to lessen the risk of any material adverse impact, our disaster recovery
planning may not be sufficient to mitigate the harm and cannot account for all eventualities, and a catastrophic
event that results in the destruction or disruption of any of our data, our critical business or information technology
systems could severely affect our ability to conduct our business operations, and as a result, our future operating
results could be materially adversely affected.
The vote by the United Kingdom to exit the European Union could adversely affect us.
On June 23, 2016, the United Kingdom (the “U.K.”) held a referendum on whether to remain a member state
of the EU in which a majority of voters approved an exit from the EU, commonly referred to as “Brexit.” The
referendum was non-binding; however, as a result of the referendum, the U.K. government has begun negotiating
the terms of the U.K. withdrawal from the EU. Under the process for withdrawing from the EU contemplated in the
Treaty on European Union, the U.K. will remain a member state until a withdrawal agreement is entered into or, if
earlier (and no extension is agreed), two years following notification of the U.K.’s intention to withdraw from the EU.
The U.K. formally notified the European Council on March 29, 2017 of its intention to withdraw from the EU.
The announcement of the referendum result caused significant volatility in global stock markets and currency
exchange fluctuations, including a sharp decline in the value of the British pound sterling and the equity prices for
U.K.-dependent companies. The long-term effects of Brexit are expected to be far-reaching and will depend on,
among other things, any agreements the U.K. makes to retain access to EU markets either during a transitional
period or more permanently. Brexit and the perceptions as to its impact may adversely affect business activity and
economic conditions in Europe and globally, and could continue to contribute to instability in global financial and
foreign-exchange markets. Consequently, the investments of our funds denominated in British pounds sterling are
subject to increased risks related to these exchange-rate fluctuations, which could produce market declines that
could negatively impact our AUM. In addition, the announcement of Brexit and the expected withdrawal of the U.K.
from the EU may also adversely affect the values of the investments held by our funds in the U.K. and EU, and our
financial condition, results of operations and cash flow could suffer as a result.
Brexit could also have the effect of disrupting the free movement of goods, services and persons between
the U.K. and the EU. Oaktree currently utilizes passport rights under certain EU directives to provide services and
perform activities in the U.K. and in other EU member states, such as the MiFID II and the Alternative Investment
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Fund Managers Directive. Any disruption to the free movement of goods, services and persons between the U.K.
and the EU may adversely impact Oaktree’s activities in the U.K. and in other EU member states.
In addition, Brexit could lead to legal uncertainty and potentially divergent national laws and regulations as
the U.K. determines which EU laws to replace or replicate. Any such new laws and regulations in the U.K. may be
difficult and/or costly to implement and could adversely impact our ability to raise capital from investors in the U.K.
and the EU, which could materially reduce our revenue, earnings and cash flow and adversely affect our financial
prospects and condition. Furthermore, as a result of Brexit, other EU member countries may seek to conduct
referenda with respect to their continuing membership with the EU. Given these possibilities and others we may not
anticipate, at this time, it is difficult to predict how the U.K. withdrawal from the EU will be implemented and what the
economic, tax, fiscal, legal, regulatory and other implications will be for the asset management industry and the
broader European and global financial markets generally and for our business and our funds and their investments
specifically. However, any of these effects of Brexit, and others we cannot anticipate, could adversely affect our
business, results of operations, financial prospects and condition, and cash flow.
Risks Relating to Our Funds
Our results of operations are dependent on the performance of our funds. Poor fund performance will result
in reduced revenues. Poor performance of our funds will also make it difficult for us to retain and attract investors to
our funds, to retain and attract qualified professionals and to grow our business. The performance of each fund we
manage is subject to some or all of the following risks.
The historical returns attributable to our funds should not be considered indicative of the future results of
our funds or of our future results or of any returns expected on an investment in our Class A units.
The historical returns attributable to our funds should not be considered indicative of the future results of our
funds, nor are they directly linked to returns on our Class A units. Therefore, Class A unitholders should not
conclude that positive performance of our funds will necessarily result in positive returns on an investment in our
Class A units. However, poor performance of the funds we manage will cause a decline in our revenues and would
therefore have a negative effect on our operating results and returns on our Class A units.
Moreover, with respect to the historical returns of our funds:
• we may create new funds in the future that reflect a different asset mix and different investment strategies,
as well as a varied geographic and industry exposure as compared to our present funds, and any such
new funds could have different returns from our existing or previous funds;
•
the rates of return of our closed-end funds reflect unrealized gains as of the applicable measurement date
that may never be realized, which may result in a lower internal rate of return and ultimate return for some
closed-end funds from those presented in this annual report;
• our funds’ returns have previously benefited from investment opportunities and general market conditions
that may not repeat themselves, and there can be no assurance that our current or future funds will be
able to avail themselves of profitable investment opportunities;
• many of our funds’ historical investments were made over a long period of time and over the course of
various market and macroeconomic cycles, and the circumstances under which our current or future funds
may make future investments may differ significantly from those conditions prevailing in the past;
• newly-established funds may generate lower returns during the period in which they initially deploy their
capital;
• our funds may not be able to successfully identify, make and realize upon any particular investment or
generate returns for their investors; and
• any material increase or decrease in the size of our funds could result in materially different rates of
returns.
The future internal rate of return for any current or future fund may vary considerably from the historical
internal rate of return generated by any particular fund, or for our funds as a whole. In addition, future returns will
be affected by the applicable risks described elsewhere in this annual report, including risks of the industries and
businesses in which a particular fund invests.
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Investors in some of our funds may be unable to fulfill their capital commitment obligations, and such
failure could have an adverse effect on the affected funds.
Investors in our closed-end funds make capital commitments that we are entitled to call from those investors
at any time during certain prescribed periods. We depend on investors fulfilling and honoring their commitments
when we call capital from them in order for our closed-end funds to consummate investments and otherwise pay
their obligations when due. Any investor that does not fund a capital call is subject to having a meaningful amount
of its existing capital account forfeited in that fund. However, if investors were to fail to honor a significant amount
of capital calls for any particular fund or funds, the affected funds’ ability to make new or follow-on investments, and
to otherwise satisfy their liabilities when due, could be materially and adversely affected.
Certain of our funds invest in relatively high-risk, illiquid, non-publicly traded assets, and we may fail to
realize any profits from these activities ever or for a considerable period of time.
Our closed-end funds often invest in securities that are not publicly traded. In many cases, our funds may be
prohibited by contract or by applicable securities laws from selling these securities for a period of time. Our funds
generally cannot sell these securities publicly unless either their sale is registered under applicable securities laws
or an exemption from registration is available. The ability of many of our funds, particularly our control investing
funds, to dispose of investments is heavily dependent on the public capital markets. For example, the ability to
realize any value from an investment may depend upon the ability to complete an initial public offering of the
portfolio company in which the investment is held. Even if securities are publicly traded, large holdings of securities
often can be sold only over a substantial length of time, exposing investment returns to risks of downward
movement in market prices. Moreover, because the investment strategy of many of our funds, particularly our
control investing funds, often entails our having representation on our funds’ public portfolio company boards, our
funds may be restricted in their ability to effect such sales during certain time periods. Accordingly, under certain
conditions, our investment funds may be forced to either sell securities at lower prices than they had expected to
realize or defer – potentially for a considerable period of time – sales that they had planned to make. We have
made and expect to continue to make significant principal investments in our current and future funds. Contributing
capital to these funds is risky, and we may lose some or the entire principal amount of our investments.
Our funds make distressed debt investments that involve significant risks and potential additional
liabilities.
Certain of our funds invest in obligors and issuers with weak financial conditions, poor operating results,
substantial financing needs, negative net worth or significant competitive issues and/or securities that are illiquid,
distressed or have other high-risk features. These funds also invest in obligors and issuers that are involved in
bankruptcy or reorganization proceedings. In these situations, it may be difficult to obtain full information as to the
exact financial and operating conditions of these obligors and issuers. Furthermore, some of our funds’ distressed
debt investments may not be widely traded or may have no recognized market. Depending on the specific fund’s
investment profile, a fund’s exposure to the investments may be substantial in relation to the market for those
investments, and the acquired assets are likely to be illiquid and difficult to transfer. As a result, it may take a
number of years for the market value of the investments to ultimately reflect their intrinsic value as we perceive it.
A central strategy of our distressed debt funds, for example, is to anticipate the occurrence of certain
corporate events, such as debt or equity offerings, restructurings, reorganizations, mergers, takeover offers and
other transactions. If the relevant corporate event that we anticipate is delayed, changed or never completed, the
market price and value of the applicable fund’s investment could decline sharply.
In addition, these investments could subject a fund to certain potential additional liabilities that may exceed
the value of its original investment. Under certain circumstances, payments or distributions on certain investments
may be reclaimed if any such payment or distribution is later determined to have been a fraudulent conveyance, a
preferential payment or similar transaction under applicable bankruptcy and insolvency laws. In addition, under
certain circumstances, a lender that has inappropriately exercised control of the management and policies of a
debtor may have its claims subordinated or disallowed or may be found liable for damages suffered by parties as a
result of such actions. In the case where the investment in securities of troubled companies is made in connection
with an attempt to influence a restructuring proposal or plan of reorganization in bankruptcy, the fund may become
involved in substantial litigation.
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Certain of our funds are subject to the fiduciary responsibility and prohibited transaction provisions of
ERISA and the Code, and our business could be adversely affected if certain of our other funds fail to
satisfy an exemption under the “plan assets” regulation under ERISA.
Some of our funds are subject to the fiduciary responsibility and prohibited transaction provisions of ERISA
and Section 4975 of the Code. For example, we currently manage some of our funds as “plan assets” under
ERISA. With respect to these funds, this results in the application of the fiduciary responsibility standards of ERISA
to investments made by such funds, including the requirement of investment prudence and diversification, and the
possibility that certain transactions that we enter into, or may have entered into, on behalf of these funds, in the
ordinary course of business, might constitute or result in non-exempt prohibited transactions under Section 406 of
ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code. A non-exempt prohibited transaction, in addition to imposing potential liability
upon fiduciaries of a plan subject to Title I of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code, may also result in the imposition
of an excise tax under the Code upon a “party in interest” (as defined in ERISA) or “disqualified person” (as defined
in the Code) with whom we engaged in the transaction. Some of our other funds currently qualify as venture capital
operating companies (“VCOCs”), as defined in the regulations (the “Plan Asset Regulations”) promulgated under
ERISA by the U.S. Department of Labor, or rely on other exceptions under ERISA and therefore are not subject to
the fiduciary requirements of ERISA with respect to their assets. However, if these funds fail to satisfy the
requirements to qualify as a VCOC for any reason, including an amendment of the Plan Asset Regulations, or
another exception under ERISA, such failure could materially interfere with our activities in relation to these funds or
expose us to risks related to our failure to comply with the requirements.
Certain of our funds may be subject to risks arising from potential control group liability.
Under ERISA, upon the termination of a tax qualified single employer defined benefit pension plan, the
sponsoring employer and all members of its “controlled group” will be jointly and severally liable for 100% of the
plan’s unfunded benefit liabilities whether or not the controlled group members have ever maintained or participated
in the plan. In addition, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (the “PBGC”) may assert a lien with respect to
such liability against any member of the controlled group on up to 30% of the collective net worth of all members of
the controlled group. Similarly, in the event a participating employer partially or completely withdraws from a
multiemployer (union) defined benefit pension plan, any withdrawal liability incurred under ERISA will represent a
joint and several liability of the withdrawing employer and each member of its controlled group.
A “controlled group” includes all “trades or businesses” with at least 80% or greater common ownership.
This common ownership test is broadly applied to include both “parent subsidiary groups” and “brother sister
groups” applying complex exclusion and constructive ownership rules. However, regardless of the percentage
ownership that any of our funds holds in one or more of its portfolio companies, such fund itself cannot be
considered part of an ERISA controlled group unless that fund is considered to be a “trade or business”.
While there are a number of cases that have held that managing investments is not a “trade or business” for
tax purposes, in 2007 the PBGC Appeals Board ruled that a private equity fund was a “trade or business” for ERISA
controlled group liability purposes and at least one Federal Circuit Court has similarly concluded that a private
equity fund could be a trade or business for these purposes based upon a number of factors including the fund’s
level of involvement in the management of its portfolio companies and the nature of any management fee
arrangements.
If any of our funds are determined to be a trade or business for purposes of ERISA, it is possible,
depending upon the structure of the investment by such fund or any of their affiliates and other co investors in a
portfolio company and their respective ownership interests in the portfolio company, that any tax qualified single
employer defined benefit pension plan liabilities or multiemployer plan withdrawal liabilities incurred by the portfolio
company could result in liability being incurred by any of our funds, with a resulting need for additional capital
contributions, the appropriation of such fund’s assets to satisfy such pension liabilities and/or the imposition of a lien
by the PBGC on certain fund assets. Moreover, regardless of whether or not any of our funds were determined to
be a trade or business for purposes of ERISA, a court might hold that one of our fund’s portfolio companies could
become jointly and severally liable for another portfolio company’s unfunded pension liabilities pursuant to the
ERISA “controlled group” rules, depending upon the relevant investment structures and ownership interests as
noted above.
Poor investment performance during periods of adverse market conditions may result in relatively high
levels of investor redemptions, which can exacerbate the liquidity pressures on the affected funds, force
the sale of assets at distressed prices or reduce the funds’ returns.
Poor investment performance during periods of adverse market conditions, together with investors’ increased
need for liquidity given the state of the credit markets, can prompt relatively high levels of investor redemptions at
50
times when many funds may not have sufficient liquidity to satisfy some or all of their investor redemption requests.
During times when market conditions are deteriorating, many funds may face additional redemption requests and/or
compulsory investor withdrawals or redemptions, which will exacerbate the liquidity pressures on the affected funds.
If such funds cannot satisfy their current and future redemption requests, they may be forced to sell assets at
distressed prices or cease operations. Various measures taken by funds to improve their liquidity profiles (such as
the implementation of “gates” or the suspension of redemptions) that reduce the amounts that would otherwise be
paid out in response to redemption requests may have the effect of incentivizing investors to “gross up” or increase
the size of the future redemption requests they make, thereby exacerbating the cycle of redemptions. The liquidity
issues for such funds are often further exacerbated by their fee structures, as a decrease in NAV decreases their
management fees.
Certain of our funds have, or may in the future have, agreements that create debt or debt-like obligations
with one or more counterparties. Such agreements in many instances contain covenants or “triggers” that require
the fund to maintain a certain level of NAV over certain testing periods or to post additional margin on a daily basis
when prices of our funds’ derivative contracts move against the fund. In addition, there may be guidelines in total
return swap facilities or margin loans that require reference obligations to be above a certain price level. Decreases
in such funds’ NAV (whether due to performance, redemptions or both) that breach such covenants, the failure to
make any margin calls or meaningful decreases in the price of the underlying reference loan or security may result
in defaults under such agreements and such defaults could permit the counterparties to take various actions that
would be adverse to the funds, including terminating the financing arrangements, increasing the amount of margin
or collateral that the funds are required to post (so-called “supercollateralization” requirements) or decreasing the
aggregate amount of leverage that such counterparty is willing to provide to our funds. In particular, many such
covenants to which our funds are party are designed to protect against sudden and pronounced drops in NAV over
specified periods, so if our open-end or evergreen funds were to receive larger-than-anticipated redemption
requests during a period of poor performance, such covenants may be breached. Defaults under any such
covenants would likely result in the affected funds being forced to sell financed assets (which sales would likely
occur in suboptimal or distressed market conditions) or being forced to restructure a swap facility with more onerous
terms or otherwise raise cash by reducing other leverage, which would reduce the funds’ returns and our
opportunities to produce incentive and investment income from the affected funds.
Valuation methodologies for certain assets in our funds can be subject to significant subjectivity, and the
values of assets established pursuant to the methodologies may never be realized.
Our funds make investments for which market quotations are not readily available, and thus the process by
which we value such investments involves inherent uncertainties. We are required by GAAP to make good faith
determinations as to the fair value of these investments on a quarterly basis in connection with the preparation of
our funds’ financial statements.
There is no single method for determining fair value in good faith. The types of factors that may be
considered when determining the fair value of an investment in a particular company include acquisition price of the
investment, discounted cash flow valuations, historical and projected operational and financial results for the
company, the strengths and weaknesses of the company relative to its comparable companies, industry trends,
general economic and market conditions, information with respect to offers for the investment, the size of the
investment (and any associated control) and other factors deemed relevant. Fair values may also be assessed
based on the enterprise value of a company established using a market multiple approach that is based on a
specific financial measure (such as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”),
adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, net income, book value or net asset value) or, in some cases, a cost basis or a
discounted cash flow or liquidation analysis. Because valuations, and in particular valuations of investments for
which market quotations are not readily available, are inherently uncertain, may fluctuate over short periods of time
and may be based on estimates, determinations of fair value may differ materially from the values that would have
resulted if a ready market had existed. Even if market quotations are available for our investments, the quotations
may not reflect the value that we would actually be able to realize because of various factors, including the possible
illiquidity associated with a large ownership position, subsequent illiquidity in the market for a company’s securities,
future market price volatility or the potential for a future loss in market value based on poor industry conditions or
the market’s view of overall company and management performance.
Because there is significant uncertainty in the valuation of, or in the stability of the value of, illiquid
investments, the fair values of such investments as reflected in a fund’s NAV do not necessarily reflect the prices
that would actually be obtained by us on behalf of the fund when such investments are sold. Sales at values
significantly lower than the values at which investments have previously been reflected in a fund’s NAV may result
in losses for the applicable fund, a decline in management fees and the loss of incentive income that may have
51
been accrued by the applicable fund. Changes in values attributed to investments from quarter to quarter may
result in volatility in the NAV and results of operations that we report. Also, a situation where a fund’s NAV turns out
to be materially different from the NAV previously reported for the fund could cause investors to lose confidence in
us, which could in turn result in difficulty in raising additional funds or investors requesting redemptions from certain
of our funds. The SEC has highlighted valuation practices as one of its areas of focus in investment adviser
examinations and has instituted enforcement actions against private equity fund advisers for misleading investors
about valuation.
Our funds make investments in companies that are based outside the United States, which exposes us to
additional risks not typically associated with investing in companies that are based in the United States.
Many of our funds invest a portion of their assets in the equity, debt, loans or other securities of issuers
located outside the United States, while certain of our funds invest substantially all of their assets in these types of
securities. Investments in non-U.S. securities involve certain factors not typically associated with investing in U.S.
securities, including risks relating to:
• our funds’ abilities to exchange local currencies for U.S. dollars and other currency exchange matters,
including fluctuations in currency exchange rates and costs associated with conversion of investment
principal and income from one currency into another;
• controls on, and changes in controls on, foreign investment and limitations on repatriation of invested
capital;
•
•
less developed or less efficient financial markets than exist in the United States, which may lead to price
volatility and relative illiquidity;
the absence of uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and disclosure
requirements and less government supervision and regulation;
• differences in legal and regulatory environments, particularly with respect to bankruptcy and
reorganization, less developed corporate laws regarding fiduciary duties and the protection of investors
and less reliable judicial systems to enforce contracts and applicable law;
•
less publicly available information in respect of companies in non-U.S. markets;
• heightened exposure to corruption risk;
• certain economic and political risks, including potential exchange control regulations and restrictions on
our non-U.S. investments and repatriation of capital, potential political, economic or social instability, the
possibility of nationalization or expropriation or confiscatory taxation and adverse economic and political
developments; and
•
the possible imposition of non-U.S. taxes or withholding on income and gains recognized with respect to
the securities.
There can be no assurance that adverse developments with respect to these risks will not adversely affect
our funds that invest in securities of non-U.S. issuers.
Certain of our funds and most of our separate account agreements contain provisions that allow investors
to withdraw their capital.
Most of our separate account agreements generally can be terminated by our separate account clients upon
notice of 30 days or less. Similarly, our commingled open-end funds permit the withdrawal of capital by our
investors during certain open periods that generally occur on the first business day of each calendar month. Our
active evergreen funds have withdrawal rights that, depending on the specific fund, can be exercised in intervals
typically ranging from three months to three years. Any significant number of terminations or withdrawals could
have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
We have made and expect to continue to make significant investments in our current and future funds, and
we may lose money on some or all of our investments.
Since our inception in 1995, we have increased the minimum level of our principal investments in our closed-
end and evergreen funds from 0.2% of the fund’s aggregate committed capital to 1.0% starting with funds that held
their initial closings in late 1998, to 2.0% starting with funds that held their initial closings in mid-2004. Subsequent
to the 2007 Private Offering, we decided to further increase principal investments made collectively by Oaktree and
its affiliates in such funds that have initial closings after May 2007 to the greater of 2.5% of the funds’ aggregate
committed capital or $20 million. Although we are not limited in the amount we choose to invest, in 2009 we
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decided that we will generally not invest more than $100 million in any one fund. We expect to continue to make
significant principal investments in our funds and may choose to increase the percentage amount we invest at any
time. Further, from time to time we make loans or otherwise extend credit or guarantees to our funds. Contributing
capital, making other investments or extending credit to these funds is risky, and we may lose some or all of our
investments. Any such loss could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of
operations.
Our funds make investments in companies that we do not control.
Investments by many of our funds include debt instruments and equity securities of companies that we do
not control. These instruments and securities may be acquired by our funds through trading activities or through
purchases of securities from the issuer. In addition, our control investing funds may acquire minority equity
interests and may also dispose of a portion of their majority equity investments in portfolio companies over time in a
manner that results in the funds retaining a minority investment. Those investments will be subject to the risk that
the company in which the investment is made may make business, financial or management decisions with which
we do not agree or that the majority stakeholders or the management of the company may take risks or otherwise
act in a manner that does not serve our interests. In addition, the company in which the investment is made may be
subject to complex regulatory requirements, and instances of non-compliance by them may subject us to
reputational harm or have other adverse consequences on our business. If any of the foregoing were to occur, the
values of the investments held by our funds could decrease and our financial condition, results of operations and
cash flow could suffer as a result.
Investments by our funds will in many cases rank junior to investments made by others.
In many cases, the companies in which our funds invest have indebtedness or equity securities, or may be
permitted to incur indebtedness or to issue equity securities, that rank senior to our investment. By their terms,
these instruments may provide that their holders are entitled to receive payments of dividends, interest or principal
on or before the dates on which payments are to be made in respect of our investment. Also, in the event of
insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or bankruptcy of a company in which we hold an investment,
holders of securities ranking senior to our investment would typically be entitled to receive payment in full before
distributions could be made in respect of our investment. After repaying senior security holders, the company may
not have any remaining assets to use for repaying amounts owed in respect of our investment. To the extent that
any assets remain, holders of claims that rank equally with our investment would be entitled to share on an equal
and ratable basis in distributions that are made out of those assets. Also, during periods of financial distress or
following an insolvency, the ability of our funds to influence a company’s affairs and to take actions to protect their
investment may be substantially less than that of those holding senior interests.
The due diligence process that we undertake in connection with investments by some of our funds may not
reveal all facts that may be relevant in connection with an investment.
Before making investments in companies that we expect to control, we undertake a due diligence
investigation of the target company. In conducting these investigations, we may be required to evaluate important
and complex business, financial, tax, accounting, environmental and legal issues. Outside consultants, legal
advisers, accountants and investment banks are often involved in the due diligence process in varying degrees
depending on the type of investment. Nevertheless, the due diligence investigation that we carry out with respect to
an investment opportunity may not reveal or highlight all relevant facts that may be necessary or helpful in
evaluating the investment opportunity. No due diligence investigation can provide certainty as to the matters
covered. In addition, instances of bribery, fraud, accounting irregularities and other improper, illegal or corrupt
practices are by their nature difficult to detect. Moreover, a due diligence investigation will not necessarily result in
the investment being successful. The nature of our due diligence investigation in a particular instance depends on
the size and type of investment being considered, our familiarity with the relevant industry, company and its
management and other relevant factors.
Market values of publicly traded securities that are held as investments may be volatile.
The market prices of publicly traded securities held by some of our funds may be volatile and are likely to
fluctuate due to a number of factors beyond our control, including actual or anticipated changes in the profitability of
the issuers of such securities, general economic, social or political developments, changes in industry conditions,
changes in government regulation, shortfalls in operating results from levels forecast by securities analysts, inflation
and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates, the general state of the securities markets and other material events, such
as significant management changes, financings, refinancings, securities issuances, acquisitions and dispositions.
Changes in the values of these investments may adversely affect our investment performance and our results of
operations.
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Volatility in the structured credit, leveraged loan and high yield bond markets may adversely affect our
funds’ investments.
To the extent that companies in which our funds invest participate in the structured credit, leveraged loan
and high yield bond markets, the results of their operations may suffer if such markets experience dislocations,
illiquidity and volatility. In addition, to the extent that such marketplace events occur, this may have an adverse
impact on the availability of credit to businesses generally and could lead to an overall weakening of the U.S. and
global economies. Any economic downturn could adversely affect the financial resources of our funds’ investments
(in particular those investments that depend on credit from third parties or that otherwise participate in the credit
markets) and their ability to make principal and interest payments on, or refinance, outstanding debt when due. In
the event of such defaults, our funds could lose both invested capital in, and anticipated profits from, the affected
portfolio companies.
We enter into a significant number of side letter agreements with limited partners of certain of our funds,
and the terms of these agreements could expose the general partners of the funds to additional risks and
liabilities.
We regularly enter into side letter agreements with particular limited partners in the course of raising our
funds. These side letters typically afford such limited partners assurance with respect to particular aspects of the
operation of the fund. Given that these assurances often elaborate upon the provisions of the relevant fund’s
partnership agreement, our affiliates could be exposed to additional risks, liabilities and obligations not
contemplated in our funds’ partnership agreements.
Our funds may invest in companies that are highly leveraged, a fact that may increase the risk of loss
associated with the investments.
Our funds may invest in companies whose capital structures involve significant leverage. These investments
are inherently more sensitive to declines in revenues and to increases in expenses and interest rates. The
leveraged capital structure of these companies places significant burdens on their cash flows and increases the
exposure of our funds to adverse economic factors such as downturns in the economy or deterioration in the
condition of the portfolio company or its industry. Additionally, the securities acquired by our funds may be the most
junior in what could be a complex capital structure and thus subject us to the greatest risk of loss in the event of
insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or bankruptcy of one of these companies.
The use of leverage by our funds could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of
operation and cash flow.
Some of our funds use leverage (including through credit facilities, swaps and other derivatives) as part of
their respective investment programs and may borrow a substantial amount of capital. The use of leverage poses a
significant degree of risk and can enhance the magnitude of a significant loss in the value of the investment
portfolio. To the extent that any fund leverages its capital structure, it is subject to the risks normally associated with
debt financing, including the risk that its cash flows will be insufficient to meet principal and interest payments,
which could significantly reduce or even eliminate the value of such fund’s investments. In addition, the interest
expense and other costs incurred in connection with such leverage may not be recovered by the appreciation in the
value of any associated securities or bank debt and will be lost – and the timing and magnitude of such losses may
be accelerated or exacerbated – in the event of a decline in the market value of such securities or bank debt. In
addition, such funds may be subject to margin calls or acceleration in the event of a decline in the value of the
posted collateral. To meet liquidity needs as a result of margin calls or acceleration, we may elect to invest
additional capital into or loan money to such funds. Any such investment or loan would be subject to the risk of
loss. In addition, if we were to elect to enforce our rights against any fund with respect to a loan to such fund, we
may damage our relationships with our investors and have difficulty raising additional capital. Any of the foregoing
circumstances could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flow.
Changes in the debt financing markets and higher interest rates may negatively impact the ability of our
funds and their portfolio companies to obtain attractive financing for their investments or refinance
existing debt and may increase the cost of such financing if it is obtained, leading to lower-yielding
investments and potentially decreasing our incentive income and investment income.
The markets for debt financing are subject to retrenchment, resulting in more restrictive covenants or other
more onerous terms (including posting additional collateral) in order to provide financing, and in some cases
lenders may refuse to provide any financing that would have been readily obtained under different credit conditions.
In addition, higher interest rates generally impact the investment management industry by making it harder to obtain
financing for new investments, refinance existing investment or liquidate debt investments, which can lead to
54
reduced investment returns and missed investment opportunities. Since the most recent recession, the U.S.
Federal Reserve has taken actions which have resulted in low interest rates prevailing in the marketplace for a
historically long period of time. In December 2016, the U.S. Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by
a quarter of a percentage point. In 2017, the U.S. Federal Reserve again raised its benchmark interest rate by a
quarter of a percentage point in each of March, June and December. The U.S. Federal Reserve has indicated that
it may raise interest rates further in 2018, and any such increase may materially and negatively affect us.
If our funds are unable to obtain committed debt financing or can only obtain debt at an increased interest
rate or on other less advantageous terms, such funds’ investment activities may be restricted and their profits may
be lower than they would otherwise have achieved, either of which could lead to a decrease in the incentive and
investment income earned by us. Similarly, the portfolio companies owned by our funds regularly utilize the
corporate debt markets to obtain efficient financing for their operations. To the extent that credit markets render
such financing difficult or more expensive to obtain, the operating performance of those portfolio companies and
therefore the investment returns on our funds may be negatively impacted. In addition, to the extent that the then-
current markets make it difficult or impossible to refinance debt or extend maturities on their outstanding debt, the
relevant portfolio company may be unable to repay such debt at maturity and may be forced to sell assets, undergo
a recapitalization or seek bankruptcy protection. Any of the foregoing circumstances could impair the value of our
investment in those portfolio companies and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of
operations and cash flow.
Our funds may face risks relating to undiversified investments.
We cannot give assurance as to the degree of diversification, if any, that will be achieved in any fund
investments. Difficult market conditions or slowdowns affecting a particular asset class, geographic region or other
category of investment could have a significant adverse impact on a fund if its investments are concentrated in that
area, which would result in lower investment returns. This lack of diversification may expose a fund to losses
disproportionate to market declines in general if there are disproportionately greater adverse price movements in
the particular investments. To the extent a fund holds investments concentrated in a particular issuer, security,
asset class or geographic region, such fund may be more susceptible than a more widely diversified investment
partnership to the negative consequences of a single corporate, economic, political or regulatory event.
Accordingly, a lack of diversification on the part of a fund could adversely affect a fund’s performance and, as a
result, our financial condition and results of operations.
Risk management activities may adversely affect the returns on our funds’ investments and expose our
funds to other risks.
When managing our exposure to market risks, we may (on our own behalf or on behalf of our funds) from
time to time use forward contracts, options, swaps, caps, collars and floors or pursue other strategies or use other
forms of derivative instruments to limit our exposure to changes in the relative values of investments that may result
from market developments, including, but not limited to, changes in prevailing interest rates, currency exchange
rates and commodity prices. The success of any hedging or other derivative transactions generally will depend on
our ability to correctly predict market changes, the degree of correlation between price movements of a derivative
instrument and the position being hedged, the creditworthiness of the counterparty and other factors. As a result,
while we may enter into a transaction in order to reduce our exposure to market risks, the transaction may result in
poorer overall investment performance than if it had not been executed. Such transactions may also limit the
opportunity for gain if the value of a hedged position increases. Moreover, these hedging arrangements may
generate significant transaction costs that reduce the returns generated by our funds.
In addition, derivative transactions expose our funds to liquidity, volatility, counterparty and other risks.
Please see “—The derivatives that we or our funds use may subject us to increased risk of loss and may adversely
affect our results of operations” above.
Our funds are subject to risks in using prime brokers, custodians, counterparties, administrators, other
agents and third-party service providers.
Many of our funds depend on the services of prime brokers, custodians, counterparties, administrators and
other agents and third-party services providers to carry out certain securities and derivatives transactions and other
business functions. The terms of these contracts are often customized and complex, and many of these
arrangements occur in markets or relate to products that are subject to limited or no regulatory oversight. In
particular, some of our funds utilize prime brokerage arrangements with a relatively limited number of
counterparties, which has the effect of concentrating the transaction volume (and related counterparty default risk)
of such funds with these counterparties.
55
Our funds are subject to the risk that the counterparty to one or more of these contracts defaults, either
voluntarily or involuntarily, on its performance under the contract. Any such default may occur suddenly and without
notice to us. Moreover, if a counterparty defaults, we may be unable to take action to cover our exposure, either
because we lack contractual recourse or because market conditions make it difficult to take effective action. This
inability could occur in times of market stress, which is when defaults are most likely to occur.
In addition, risk-management models that we may employ from time to time may not accurately anticipate the
impact of market stress or counterparty financial condition, and as a result, we may not have taken sufficient action
to reduce our risks effectively. Default risk may arise from events or circumstances that are difficult to detect,
foresee or evaluate. In addition, concerns about, or a default by, one large participant could lead to significant
liquidity problems for other participants, which may in turn expose us to significant losses.
In the event of a counterparty default, particularly a default by a major investment bank, one or more of our
funds could incur material losses, and the resulting market impact of a major counterparty default could harm our
business, results of operation and financial condition.
In the event of the insolvency of a prime broker, custodian, counterparty or any other party that is holding
assets of our funds as collateral, our funds might not be able to recover equivalent assets in full as they will rank
among the prime broker’s, custodian’s or counterparty’s unsecured creditors in relation to the assets held as
collateral. In addition, our funds’ cash held with a prime broker, custodian or counterparty generally will not be
segregated from the prime broker’s, custodian’s or counterparty’s own cash, and our funds may therefore rank as
unsecured creditors in relation thereto.
The counterparty risks that our funds’ face have increased in complexity and magnitude as a result of the
disruption in the financial markets in recent years. For example, the consolidation and elimination of counterparties
has increased our concentration of counterparty risk and decreased the universe of potential counterparties, and
our funds are generally not restricted from dealing with any particular counterparty or from concentrating any or all
of their transactions with one counterparty. In addition, counterparties have generally reacted to market volatility by
tightening their underwriting standards and increasing their margin requirements for all categories of financing,
which has the result of decreasing the overall amount of leverage available and increasing the costs of borrowing.
Risks Relating to Our Class A Units
The market price of our Class A units may decline due to the large number of units eligible for future sale
and issuable pursuant to our 2011 Equity Incentive Plan.
The market price of our Class A units could decline as a result of sales of a large number of our Class A units
in the market or the perception that these sales could occur. As of February 12, 2018, there were 70,297,761 Class
A units outstanding, which may be resold immediately in the public market upon the release of any applicable lock-
up periods, and, in the case of Class A units held by our affiliates, as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the
Securities Act, subject to the applicable volume limitations of Rule 144 unless we register the resale of such units.
In addition, certain of our directors and executive officers (which includes our senior executives), other employees
and certain other investors hold Oaktree Operating Group units through OCGH and, subject to certain restrictions,
including the approval of our board of directors, have the right to exchange (or may be required to exchange) their
OCGH units for, at the option of our board of directors, newly issued Class A units on a one-for-one basis, an
equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value or any
combination of the foregoing in accordance with the terms of the exchange agreement. Please see “Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence—Exchange Agreement.” The market price of
our Class A units could decline as a result of an exchange, or the perception that an exchange may occur, of a large
number of OCGH units for our Class A units. As of February 12, 2018, there were 83,854,089 vested OCGH units
outstanding. Such sales or exchanges could also cause the price of our Class A units to fall and make it more
difficult for our Class A unitholders to sell their units.
We may issue our Class A units from time to time as consideration for future acquisitions and investments. If
any such acquisition or investment is significant, the number of Class A units that we issue may in turn be
significant. We may also grant registration rights covering Class A units issued in connection with any such
acquisitions and investments. In addition, as of February 12, 2018, we may issue 12,016,674 Class A units, OCGH
units or any other class or series of units or other ownership interests in us, OCGH or any of our affiliates (“2011
Plan Units”) from time to time under our 2011 Oaktree Capital Group, LLC Equity Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”)
as well as 2011 Plan Units that become available under our 2011 Plan pursuant to provisions in the 2011 Plan that
automatically increase 2011 Plan Units available for future issuance. The units granted under the 2011 Plan may
be subject to vesting and forfeiture provisions. Any vesting terms are set by our board of directors or a committee
56
appointed by our board of directors in their respective discretion. Additional issuances of 2011 Plan Units may
dilute the holdings of our existing unitholders, reduce the market price of our Class A units or both.
The market price and trading volume of our Class A units has been and may continue to be volatile, which
could result in rapid and substantial losses for our Class A unitholders.
The market price of our Class A units may be highly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations. In
addition, the trading volume in our Class A units may fluctuate and cause significant price variations to occur. If the
market price of our Class A units declines significantly, Class A unitholders may be unable to sell their Class A units
at an attractive price, if at all. The market price of our Class A units may fluctuate or decline significantly in the
future. Some of the factors that could negatively affect the price of our Class A units or result in fluctuations in the
price or trading volume of our Class A units include:
• variations in our quarterly operating results or distributions, which may be substantial;
• our policy of taking a long-term perspective on making investment, operational and strategic decisions,
which is expected to result in significant and unpredictable variations in our quarterly returns;
•
failure to meet analysts’ performance estimates;
• publication of research reports about us or the investment management industry or the failure of securities
analysts to cover our Class A units;
• additions or departures of key management or investment personnel;
• adverse market reaction to any indebtedness we may incur or securities we may issue in the future;
• changes in market valuations of similar companies;
• speculation in the press or investment community;
• changes or proposed changes in laws or regulations or differing interpretations thereof affecting our
business or enforcement of these laws and regulations or announcements relating to these matters;
• a lack of liquidity in the trading of our Class A units;
• adverse publicity about the asset management industry generally or individual scandals, specifically; and
• general market, political and economic conditions.
If we fail to maintain effective internal controls over our financial reporting in the future, the accuracy and
timing of our financial reporting may be adversely affected.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that as a public company we maintain effective
internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. We are required under Section 404
to provide an annual management assessment of the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting
and to include in our annual reports an opinion from our independent registered public accounting firm addressing
its assessment. To maintain and improve the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, significant
resources and management oversight are required. We have implemented and continue to implement additional
procedures and processes for the purpose of addressing the standards and requirements applicable to public
companies.
If it is determined that we are not in compliance with Section 404 in the future, we would be required to
implement remedial procedures and re-evaluate our internal control over financial reporting and our operations,
financial reporting or financial results could be adversely affected, and we could receive an adverse report on
internal controls from our independent registered public accounting firm. Matters impacting our internal controls
may cause us to be unable to report our financial information on a timely basis and thereby subject us to adverse
regulatory consequences, including sanctions by the SEC, or violations of applicable stock exchange listing rules.
Moreover, if a material misstatement occurs in the future, we may need to restate our financial results and there
could be a negative reaction in the financial markets due to a loss of investor confidence in us and the reliability of
our financial statements. Confidence in the reliability of our financial statements is also likely to suffer if our
independent registered public accounting firm reports a material weakness in our internal control over financial
reporting. This could materially adversely affect us and lead to a decline in the market price of our Class A units.
Preparing our consolidated financial statements involves a number of complex manual and automated
processes, which are dependent on individual data input or review and require significant management judgment.
One or more of these elements may result in errors that may not be detected and could result in a material
misstatement of our consolidated financial statements.
57
The tax attributes of our Class A units may cause mutual funds to limit or reduce their holdings of Class A
units.
U.S. mutual funds that are treated as regulated investment companies (“RICs”) for U.S. federal income tax
purposes are required, among other things, to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to their shareholders in
order to maintain their favorable U.S. income tax status. RICs are required to meet this distribution requirement
regardless of whether their investments generate cash distributions equal to their taxable income. Accordingly,
these investors have a strong incentive to invest in securities in which the amount of cash generated approximates
the amount of taxable income recognized. Our Class A unitholders, however, are frequently allocated an amount of
taxable income that exceeds the amount of cash we distribute to them. This may make it difficult for RICs to
maintain a meaningful portion of their portfolio in our Class A units and may force those RICs that do hold our
Class A units to sell all or a portion of their holdings. These actions could increase the supply of, and reduce the
demand for, our Class A units, which could cause the price of our Class A units to decline.
The market price of our Class A units may decline due to the large number of Class A units eligible for
future issuance upon the exchange of OCGH units.
Subject to certain restrictions, including the approval of our board of directors, each holder of units in OCGH
has the right to exchange (or may be required to exchange) his or her units for, at the option of our board of
directors, newly issued Class A units on a one-for-one basis, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-
prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing. The Class A units
issued upon such exchanges may generally be resold immediately in the public market upon the release of any
applicable lock-up periods, and, in the case of Class A units held by our affiliates, as that term is defined in Rule 144
under the Securities Act, subject to the applicable volume limitations of Rule 144 unless we register the resale of
such units. Accordingly, subject to the exchange agreement described under “Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions, and Director Independence—Exchange Agreement,” a substantial number of additional units are
expected to be available to be sold in the future by the OCGH unitholders. In addition, we completed the exchange
of 12,998,725 OCGH units into an equivalent number of Class A units in November 2015. The exchanged Class A
units are subject to a three-year lock-up scheduled to be released in equal quarterly increments, generally two
business days after each quarter’s earnings release, which started with the earnings release for the fourth quarter
of 2015. This will result in approximately 1.1 million units becoming newly tradable each quarter until November
2018.
The market price of our Class A units could decline as a result of sales of a large number of Class A units
issuable upon exchange of OCGH units. These sales, or the possibility that these sales may occur, may also make
it more difficult for us to sell equity securities in the future at a time and at a price that we deem appropriate.
Additional issuances of units under our 2011 Plan may dilute the holdings of our existing unitholders, reduce
the market price of our Class A units or both. Additionally, our operating agreement authorizes us to issue an
unlimited number of additional units and options, rights, warrants and appreciation rights relating to such units for
consideration or for no consideration and on terms and conditions established by our board of directors in its sole
discretion without the approval of Class A unitholders. These additional securities may be used for a variety of
purposes, including future offerings to raise additional capital, acquisitions and employee benefit plans.
We are a “controlled company” within the meaning of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) listing
standards and, as a result, qualify for, and rely on, exemptions from certain corporate governance
requirements.
Because our senior executives hold units representing more than 50% of our voting power, we are
considered a “controlled company” for purposes of the NYSE listing requirements. As such, we have elected, and
intend to continue to elect, not to comply with certain NYSE corporate governance requirements, which may include
one or more of the following: that a majority of our board of directors consist of independent directors, that we have
a compensation committee that is composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the
committee’s purpose and responsibilities and that we have a nominating and corporate governance committee that
is composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the committee’s purpose and
responsibilities. In addition, we are not required to hold annual meetings of our unitholders. Accordingly, our Class
A unitholders do not have the same protections afforded to shareholders of companies that are subject to all of the
NYSE corporate governance requirements. Please see “Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance—
Board Structure and Governance—Controlled Company Exemption.”
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We cannot assure you that our intended quarterly distributions will be paid each quarter or at all.
We intend to distribute substantially all of the excess of our share of distributable earnings, net of income
taxes, as determined by our board of directors after taking into account factors it deems relevant, such as, but not
limited to, working capital levels, known or anticipated cash needs, business and investment opportunities, general
economic and business conditions, our obligations under our debt instruments or other agreements, our compliance
with applicable laws, the level and character of taxable income that flows through to our Class A unitholders, the
availability and terms of outside financing, the possible repurchase of our Class A units in open market transactions,
in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise, the possible repurchase of OCGH units, providing for future
distributions to our Class A and OCGH unitholders, and growing our capital base.
We are not currently restricted by any contract from making distributions to our unitholders, although certain
of our subsidiaries are bound by credit agreements that contain certain restricted payment or other covenants,
which may have the effect of limiting the amount of distributions that we receive from our subsidiaries. In addition,
we are not permitted to make a distribution under Section 18-607 of the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act
(the “Act”) if, after giving effect to the distribution, our liabilities would exceed the fair value of our assets.
Distributions to our Class A unitholders are funded by our share of the Oaktree Operating Group’s
distributions. To measure our earnings for purposes of, among other things, assisting in the determination of
distributions from the Oaktree Operating Group entities to us, we utilize distributable earnings, a non-GAAP
performance measure derived from our non-GAAP results, which excludes the effects of the consolidated funds.
The declaration, payment and determination of the amount of our quarterly distribution, if any, is at the sole
discretion of our board of directors, which may change our distribution policy at any time. Our operating agreement
provides that so long as our senior executives, or their successors or affiliated entities (other than us or our
subsidiaries), including OCGH, collectively hold, directly or indirectly, at least 10% of the aggregate outstanding
Oaktree Operating Group units (the “Oaktree control condition”), our manager, which is 100% owned by our senior
executives, is entitled to designate all the members of our board of directors. As a result, Class A unitholders do not
have the power to elect the board of directors as long as the Oaktree control condition is satisfied. Moreover, our
board of directors may have interests that conflict with the interests of the Class A unitholders because the persons
who control our manager and a majority of the members of our board of directors hold the vast majority of their
economic interests in the Oaktree Operating Group through OCGH rather than through OCG. We cannot assure
you that any distributions, whether quarterly or otherwise, will or can be paid.
If we reduce or cease to make distributions on our Class A units, the value of our Class A units may
significantly decrease.
Risks Relating to Our Organization and Structure
If we or any of our private funds were deemed an investment company under the Investment Company Act,
applicable restrictions could make it impractical for us to continue our business or such funds as
contemplated and could have a material adverse effect on our business.
A person will generally be deemed to be an “investment company” for purposes of the Investment Company
Act if:
•
it is or holds itself out as being engaged primarily, or proposes to engage primarily, in the business of
investing, reinvesting or trading in securities; or
• absent an applicable exemption, it owns or proposes to acquire investment securities having a value
exceeding 40% of the value of its total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities and cash items) on
an unconsolidated basis.
We believe that we are engaged primarily in the business of providing asset management services and not
primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities. We also believe that the primary source of
income from our business is properly characterized as income earned in exchange for the provision of services.
We hold ourselves out as an asset management firm and do not propose to engage primarily in the business of
investing, reinvesting or trading in securities. Further, because we believe that the capital interests of the general
partners of our funds in their respective funds are neither securities nor investment securities for purposes of the
Investment Company Act, we believe that less than 40% of our total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities
and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis are comprised of assets that could be considered investment
securities. Accordingly, we do not believe that we are an investment company under the Investment Company Act.
The Investment Company Act and the rules thereunder contain detailed parameters for the organization and
operation of investment companies. Among other things, the Investment Company Act and the rules thereunder
59
limit or prohibit transactions with affiliates, impose limitations on the issuance of debt and equity securities,
generally prohibit the issuance of options and impose certain governance requirements. We intend to conduct our
operations so that we will not be deemed to be an investment company under the Investment Company Act. While
we do advise or sub-advise funds that are registered under the Investment Company Act, we operate our private
funds so that they are not deemed to be investment companies that are required to be registered under the
Investment Company Act. If anything were to happen that would cause us to be deemed to be an investment
company under the Investment Company Act or that would require us to register our private funds under the
Investment Company Act, requirements imposed by the Investment Company Act, including limitations on capital
structure, ability to transact business with affiliates and ability to compensate senior employees, could make it
impractical for us to continue our business or the private funds as currently conducted, impair the agreements and
arrangements between and among OCGH, us, our private funds and our senior management, or any combination
thereof, and materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we
may be required to limit the amount of investments that we make as a principal or otherwise conduct our business
in a manner that does not subject us to the registration and other requirements of the Investment Company Act.
Our Class A unitholders do not elect our manager and have limited ability to influence decisions regarding
our business, and our senior executives are able to determine the outcome of any matters submitted to a
vote of unitholders.
Our operations and activities are managed by our board of directors. So long as the Oaktree control
condition is satisfied, our manager, Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC, which is owned by our senior
executives, is entitled to designate all the members of our board of directors and to remove or replace any director
(or our entire board of directors) at any time. Accordingly, our senior executives control our management and
affairs. Our Class A unitholders do not elect our manager.
While our Class A units and Class B units generally vote together as a single class on the limited matters
submitted to a vote of unitholders, including certain amendments of our operating agreement, our operating
agreement does not obligate us to hold annual meetings. Accordingly, our Class A unitholders have only limited
voting rights on matters affecting our business and therefore limited ability to influence decisions regarding our
business. In addition, through their control of our Class B units held by OCGH, our senior executives, with a 92.4%
voting interest as of February 12, 2018, are able to determine the outcome of any matter that our board of directors
does submit to a vote.
Our senior executives’ control of our manager and of the combined voting power of our units and certain
provisions of our operating agreement could delay or prevent a change of control.
As of February 12, 2018, our senior executives control 92.4% of the combined voting power of our units
through their control of OCGH. In addition, our senior executives have the ability to determine the composition of
our board of directors through their control of our manager. Our senior executives are able to appoint and remove
our directors and change the size of our board of directors, are able to determine the outcome of all matters
requiring unitholder approval, are able to cause or prevent a change of control of our company and can preclude
any unsolicited acquisition of our company. In addition, provisions in our operating agreement make it more difficult
and expensive for a third party to acquire control of us even if a change of control would be beneficial to the
interests of our Class A unitholders. For example, our operating agreement provides that only our board of directors
may call meetings and authorizes the issuance of preferred units in us that could be issued by our board of
directors to thwart a takeover attempt. The control of our manager and voting power by our senior executives and
these provisions of our operating agreement could delay or prevent a change of control and thereby deprive Class A
unitholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their Class A units as part of a sale of our company and might
ultimately affect the market price of our Class A units.
Our senior executives hold a smaller amount of their economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group
through us, which may give rise to conflicts of interest, and it is difficult for a Class A unitholder to
successfully challenge a resolution of a conflict of interest by us.
As of February 12, 2018, our senior executives hold approximately 27.9% of the economic interests of the
Oaktree Operating Group. Because they hold the vast majority of this economic interest as a group through their
ownership in OCGH rather than through their ownership in us, our senior executives may have interests that conflict
with those of the holders of Class A units. For example, our senior executives may have different tax positions from
us, which could influence their decisions regarding whether and when to dispose of assets and whether and when
to incur new or refinance existing indebtedness, especially in light of the existence of the tax receivable agreement.
In addition, the structuring of future transactions may take into consideration the senior executives’ and employees’
tax considerations even where no similar benefit would accrue to us and the Class A unitholders.
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Any resolution or course of action taken by our directors or their affiliates with respect to an existing or
potential conflict of interest involving OCGH, our directors or their respective affiliates is permitted and deemed
approved by the Class A unitholders and does not constitute a breach of our operating agreement or any duty
(including any fiduciary duty) if the course of action is (a) approved by the vote of unitholders representing a
majority of the total votes that may be cast by disinterested parties, (b) on terms no less favorable to us, our
subsidiaries or our unitholders than those generally being provided to or available from unrelated third parties,
(c) fair and reasonable to us, taking into account the totality of the relationships among the parties involved, or
(d) approved by a majority of our directors who are not employees of us, our subsidiaries or any of our affiliates
controlled by our senior executives, who we refer to as our “outside directors.” If our board of directors determines
that any resolution or course of action satisfies either (b) or (c) above, then it will be presumed that such
determination was made in good faith and a Class A unitholder seeking to challenge our directors’ determination
would bear the burden of overcoming such presumption. This is different from the situation with Delaware
corporations, where a conflict resolution by an interested party would be presumed to be unfair and the interested
party would have the burden of demonstrating that the resolution was fair.
As noted above, if our board of directors obtains the approval of a majority of our outside directors for any
given action, the resolution will be conclusively deemed not a breach by our board of directors of any duties it may
owe to us or our Class A unitholders. This is different from the situation with Delaware corporations, where the
approval of outside directors may, in certain circumstances, merely shift the burden of demonstrating unfairness to
the plaintiff. Potential conflicts of interest may be resolved by our outside directors even if they hold interests in us
or our funds or are otherwise affected by the decision or action that they are approving. If an investor chooses to
purchase a Class A unit, the investor is treated as having consented to the provisions set forth in our operating
agreement, including provisions regarding conflicts of interest situations that, in the absence of such provisions,
might be considered a breach of fiduciary or other duties under applicable state law. As a result, Class A
unitholders, as a practical matter, are not able to successfully challenge an informed decision by our outside
directors.
Our operating agreement contains provisions that substantially limit remedies available to our Class A
unitholders for actions that might otherwise result in liability for our officers, directors, manager or Class B
unitholder.
While our operating agreement provides that our officers and directors have fiduciary duties equivalent to
those applicable to officers and directors of a Delaware corporation under the Delaware General Corporation Law
(“DGCL”), the agreement also provides that our officers and directors are liable to us or our unitholders for an act or
omission only if such act or omission constitutes a breach of the duties owed to us or our unitholders, as applicable,
by any such officer or director and such breach is the result of willful malfeasance, gross negligence, the
commission of a felony or a material violation of law, in each case, that has, or could reasonably be expected to
have, a material adverse effect on us or fraud. Moreover, we have agreed to indemnify each of our directors and
officers, to the fullest extent permitted by law, against all expenses and liabilities (including judgments, fines,
penalties, interest, amounts paid in settlement with our approval and counsel fees and disbursements) arising from
the performance of any of their obligations or duties in connection with their service to us, including in connection
with any civil, criminal, administrative, investigative or other action, suit or proceeding to which any such person
may be made party by reason of being or having been one of our directors or officers, except for any expenses or
liabilities that have been finally judicially determined to have arisen primarily from acts or omissions that violated the
standard set forth in the preceding sentence. Furthermore, our operating agreement provides that OCGH does not
have any liability to us or our other unitholders for any act or omission and is indemnified in connection therewith.
Our manager, whose only role is to appoint members of our board of directors so long as the Oaktree control
condition is satisfied, does not owe any duties to us or our Class A unitholders. We have agreed to indemnify our
manager in the same manner as our directors and officers described above.
Under our operating agreement, each of our board of directors, our manager and us is entitled to take
actions or make decisions in its “sole discretion” or “discretion” or that it deems “necessary or appropriate” or
“necessary or advisable.” In those circumstances, each of our board of directors, our manager or us is entitled to
consider only such interests and factors as it desires, including our own or our directors’ interests, and neither it nor
our board of directors has any duty or obligation (fiduciary or otherwise) to give any consideration to any interest of
or factors affecting us or any Class A unitholders, and neither we nor our board of directors is subject to any
different standards imposed by our operating agreement, the Act or under any other law, rule or regulation or in
equity, except that we must act in good faith at all times. These modifications of fiduciary duties are expressly
permitted by Delaware law. These modifications are detrimental to the Class A unitholders because they restrict the
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remedies available to Class A unitholders for actions that without those limitations might constitute breaches of duty
(including fiduciary duty).
The control of our manager may be transferred to a third party without unitholder consent.
Our manager may transfer its manager interest to a third party in a merger or consolidation, in a transfer of
all or substantially all of its assets or otherwise without the consent of our unitholders. Furthermore, our senior
executives may sell or transfer all or part of their interests in our manager without the approval of our unitholders. A
new manager could have a different investment philosophy or use its control of our board of directors to make
changes to our business that materially affect our funds, our results of operations or our financial condition.
Our ability to make distributions to our Class A unitholders may be limited by our holding company
structure, applicable provisions of Delaware law, contractual restrictions and the terms of any senior
securities we may issue in the future.
We are a limited liability holding company and have no material assets other than the ownership of our
interests in the Oaktree Operating Group held through the Intermediate Holding Companies. We have no
independent means of generating revenues. Accordingly, to the extent we decide to make distributions to our
Class A unitholders, we will cause the Oaktree Operating Group to make distributions to its unitholders, including
the Intermediate Holding Companies, to fund any distributions we may declare on the Class A units. When the
Oaktree Operating Group makes such distributions, all holders of Oaktree Operating Group units are entitled to
receive pro rata distributions based on their ownership interests in the Oaktree Operating Group.
The declaration and payment of any future distributions is at the sole discretion of our board of directors, and
we may at any time modify our approach with respect to the proper metric for determining cash flow available for
distribution. Our board of directors will take into account factors it deems relevant, such as, but not limited to,
working capital levels, known or anticipated cash needs, business and investment opportunities, general economic
and business conditions, our obligations under our debt instruments or other agreements, our compliance with
applicable laws, the level and character of taxable income that flows through to our Class A and OCGH unitholders,
the availability and terms of outside financing, the possible repurchase of our Class A units in open market
transactions, in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise, the possible repurchase of OCGH units, providing for
future distributions to our Class A unitholders, and growing our capital base. Under the Act, we may not make a
distribution to a member if, after the distribution, all our liabilities, other than liabilities to members on account of
their limited liability company interests and liabilities for which the recourse of creditors is limited to specific property
of the limited liability company, would exceed the fair value of our assets. If we were to make such an
impermissible distribution, any member who received a distribution and knew at the time of the distribution that the
distribution was in violation of the Act would be liable to us for three years for the amount of the distribution. In
addition, the Oaktree Operating Group’s cash flow may be insufficient to enable it to make required minimum tax
distributions to holders of its units, in which case the Oaktree Operating Group may have to borrow funds or sell
assets and thus our liquidity and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. Our operating
agreement contains provisions authorizing the issuance of preferred units in us by our board of directors at any time
without unitholder approval.
Furthermore, by paying cash distributions rather than investing that cash in our business, we risk slowing the
pace of our growth, or not having a sufficient amount of cash to fund our operations, new investments or
unanticipated capital expenditures, should the need arise.
We are required to pay the OCGH unitholders for most of the tax benefits we realize as a result of the tax
basis step-up we receive in connection with the sales by the OCGH unitholders of interests held in OCGH.
Subject to certain restrictions, including the approval of our board of directors, each OCGH unitholder has
the right to exchange (or may be required to exchange) his or her OCGH units for, at the option of our board of
directors, Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration
of equal value or any combination of the foregoing. In the event of an exchange, our Intermediate Holding
Companies will deliver, at the option of our board of directors, our Class A units on a one-for-one basis, an
equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value or any
combination of the foregoing in exchange for the applicable OCGH unitholder’s OCGH units pursuant to an
exchange agreement. These exchanges are expected to result in increases in certain tax depreciation and
amortization deductions, as well as an increase in the tax basis of other assets, of certain of the Oaktree Operating
Group entities that otherwise would not have been available. These increases in tax depreciation and amortization
deductions, as well as the tax basis of other assets, may reduce the amount of tax that Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and
Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. would otherwise be required to pay in the future, although the Internal Revenue Service
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(“IRS”) may challenge all or part of the increased deductions and tax basis increase, and a court could sustain such
a challenge.
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. have entered into a tax receivable agreement with the
OCGH unitholders that provides for the payment by Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. to the
OCGH unitholders of 85% of the amount of tax savings, if any, that they actually realize (or are deemed to realize in
the case of an early termination payment by Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. or a change of
control, as discussed below) as a result of these increases in tax deductions and tax basis of entities owned by
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. The payments that Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF
Holdings, Inc. may make to the OCGH unitholders could be material in amount.
Although we are not aware of any issue that would cause the IRS to challenge a tax basis increase, the
OCGH unitholders will not reimburse Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. for any payments that
have been previously made under the tax receivable agreement. As a result, in certain circumstances, payments
could be made to the OCGH unitholders under the tax receivable agreement in excess of Oaktree Holdings, Inc.’s
and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc.’s cash tax savings. Their ability to achieve benefits from any tax basis increase,
and the payments to be made under the tax receivable agreement, will depend upon a number of factors, including
the timing and amount of our future income.
In addition, the tax receivable agreement provides that, upon a merger, asset sale or other form of business
combination or certain other changes of control, Oaktree Holdings, Inc.’s and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc.’s (or their
successors’) obligations with respect to exchanged units (whether exchanged before or after the change of control)
would be based on certain assumptions, including that they would have sufficient taxable income to fully utilize the
deductions arising from the increased tax deductions and tax basis and other benefits related to entering into the
tax receivable agreement.
Risks Relating to United States Taxation
Our structure involves complex provisions of U.S. federal income tax law for which no clear precedent or
authority may be available and is subject to potential legislative, judicial or administrative change and
differing interpretations, possibly on a retroactive basis.
The U.S. federal income tax treatment of Class A unitholders depends in some instances on determinations
of fact and interpretations of complex provisions of U.S. federal income tax law for which no clear precedent or
authority may be available. The U.S. federal income tax rules are constantly under review by persons involved in
the legislative process, the IRS and the United States Treasury (“UST”), frequently resulting in revised
interpretations of established concepts, statutory changes, revisions to regulations and other modifications and
interpretations. The present U.S. federal income tax treatment of an investment in our Class A units may be
modified by administrative, legislative or judicial interpretation at any time, and any such action may affect
investments and commitments previously made. Changes to the U.S. federal income tax laws and interpretations
thereof could make it more difficult or impossible to meet the qualifying income exception for us to be treated as a
partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes that is not taxable as a corporation, cause us to change our
investments and commitments, affect the tax considerations of an investment in us, change the character or
treatment of portions of our income (including, for instance, the treatment of carried interest as ordinary income
rather than capital gain) and adversely affect an investment in our Class A units. The maintenance of our structure
and tax attributes requires significant monitoring and resources. Failure to maintain this structure could result in
material adverse consequences.
Our operating agreement permits our board of directors to modify our operating agreement from time to time,
without the consent of our Class A unitholders, to address certain changes in U.S. federal income tax regulations,
legislation or interpretation. In some circumstances, the revisions could have a material adverse impact on some or
all Class A unitholders. Moreover, we apply certain assumptions and conventions in an attempt to comply with
applicable rules and to report income, gain, deduction, loss and credit to Class A unitholders in a manner that
reflects such Class A unitholders’ beneficial ownership of partnership items, taking into account variation in
ownership interests during each taxable year because of trading activity. However, those assumptions and
conventions may not be in compliance with all aspects of applicable tax requirements. It is possible that the IRS will
assert successfully that the conventions and assumptions used by us do not satisfy the technical requirements of
the Code or UST regulations and could require that items of income, gain, deductions, loss or credit, including
interest deductions, be adjusted, reallocated or disallowed in a manner that adversely affects Class A unitholders.
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If we were treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax or state tax purposes, then our distributions
to our Class A unitholders may be substantially reduced and the value of our Class A units could be
adversely affected.
We are currently treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which requires that 90% or
more of our gross income for every taxable year consist of qualifying income, as defined in Section 7704 of the
Code, and that we not be required to be registered under the Investment Company Act. Qualifying income
generally includes dividends, interest, capital gains from the sale or other disposition of stocks and securities and
certain other forms of investment income. We may not meet these requirements or current law may change so as
to cause us, in either event, to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise
subject to U.S. federal income tax. We have not requested, and do not plan to request, a ruling from the IRS on
such matters.
If we were treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we would pay U.S. federal income
tax on our taxable income at the corporate tax rate. Distributions to Class A unitholders would generally be taxed
again as corporate distributions, and no income, gains, losses, deductions or credits would flow through to them.
Because a tax would be imposed upon us as a corporation, our distributions to Class A unitholders may be
substantially reduced, likely causing a substantial reduction in the value of our Class A units.
Our Class A unitholders may be subject to U.S. federal income tax on their share of our taxable income,
regardless of whether they receive any cash distributions from us.
As long as 90% of our gross income for each taxable year constitutes qualifying income as defined in
Section 7704 of the Code and we are not required to register as an investment company under the Investment
Company Act on a continuing basis, and assuming there is no change in law (please see “—The U.S. Congress has
considered legislation that may have precluded us from qualifying as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax
purposes. If any similar legislation were to be enacted and apply to us, the after-tax income and gain related to our
business, as well as the market price of our Class A units, could be reduced.”), or other relevant change in our
structure, we will be treated, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as a partnership and not as an association or a
publicly traded partnership taxable as a corporation. Accordingly, our Class A unitholders will be required to take
into account their allocable share of our items of income, gain, loss and deduction. Distributions to our Class A
unitholders will generally be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes only to the extent the amount distributed
exceeds their tax basis in the Class A unit. That treatment contrasts with the treatment of a shareholder in a
corporation. For example, a shareholder in a corporation who receives a distribution of earnings from the
corporation will generally report the distribution as dividend income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In
contrast, a holder of our Class A units who receives a distribution of earnings from us will not report the distribution
as dividend income (and will treat the distribution as taxable only to the extent the amount distributed exceeds the
Class A unitholder’s tax basis in the Class A units), but will instead report the holder’s allocable share of items of our
income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, our Class A unitholders may be subject to U.S. federal,
state, local and possibly, in some cases, foreign income taxation on their allocable share of our items of income,
gain, loss, deduction and credit (including our allocable share of those items of any entity in which we invest that is
treated as a partnership or is otherwise subject to tax on a flow-through basis) for each of our taxable years ending
with or within their taxable year, regardless of whether or not our Class A unitholders receive cash distributions from
us.
Our Class A unitholders may not receive cash distributions equal to their allocable share of our net taxable
income or even the tax liability that results from that income. In addition, certain of our holdings, including holdings,
if any, in a controlled foreign corporation (“CFC”) or a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”), may produce
taxable income prior to the receipt of cash relating to such income, and Class A unitholders may be required to take
that income into account in determining their taxable income. In the event of an inadvertent termination of our
partnership status, for which limited relief may be available, each holder of our Class A units may be obligated to
make such adjustments as the IRS may require to maintain our status as a partnership. These adjustments may
require persons holding our Class A units to recognize additional amounts in income during the years in which they
hold such units.
A portion of our interest in the Oaktree Operating Group is held through intermediate entities taxed as
corporations for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
In light of the publicly traded partnership rules under U.S. federal income tax law and other requirements, we
hold a portion of our interest in the Oaktree Operating Group through intermediate entities taxed as corporations for
U.S. federal income tax purposes. Such corporations may be liable for significant U.S. federal income taxes and
applicable state, local and other taxes (including taxes imposed as a result of audits by taxing authorities of such
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entities’ tax returns) that would not otherwise be incurred, which could adversely affect the value of our Class A
units. Those additional taxes do not apply to the OCGH unitholders to the extent they own equity interests in the
Oaktree Operating Group entities through OCGH.
The U.S. Congress has considered legislation that may have precluded us from qualifying as a partnership
for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If any similar legislation were to be enacted and apply to us, the
after-tax income and gain related to our business, as well as the market price of our Class A units, could be
reduced.
Some legislative and administrative proposals have provided that, for taxable years beginning ten years after
the date of enactment, income derived with respect to an investment services partnership (“ISPI”) that is not a
qualified capital interest and that is subject to the rules discussed above would not meet the qualifying income
requirements under the publicly traded partnership rules. Therefore, if similar legislation is enacted, following such
ten-year period, we would be precluded from qualifying as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes or be
required to hold all such ISPIs through corporations, possibly U.S. corporations. If we were taxed as a U.S.
corporation or required to hold all ISPIs through U.S. corporations, our effective income tax rate may increase
significantly. The currently-enacted federal statutory rate for corporations is 21%. In addition, we could be subject
to increased state and local taxes. Furthermore, you could be subject to tax on our conversion into a corporation or
any restructuring required in order for us to hold our ISPIs through a corporation.
States and other jurisdictions have also considered legislation to increase taxes with respect to incentive
income. For example, New York has considered legislation under which Class A unitholders could be subject to
New York state income tax on income in respect of our Class A units as a result of certain activities of our affiliates
in New York, although it is unclear when or whether similar legislation will be enacted.
Comprehensive U.S. federal income tax reform tax legislation recently became effective, which could have
a material effect on us.
Recently enacted U.S. federal income tax reform legislation (the “Tax Reform Bill”) has resulted in
fundamental changes to the Code. Changes to U.S. tax laws resulting from the Tax Reform Bill, including a
permanent reduction to the federal corporate income tax rate, a partial limitation on the deductibility of business
interest expense, a longer three-year holding period requirement for carried interest to be treated as capital gain,
and certain modifications to the Section 162(m) of the Code, could have a material effect on our business
operations and our funds’ investment activities. These and other changes from the Tax Reform Bill – namely, the
limitation on carryback and carryforward of net operating losses and U.S. taxation on earnings from international
business operations – could also have a significant effect on the business of our portfolio companies. The exact
impact of the Tax Reform Bill is still unclear and difficult to quantify, but these changes could have a material
adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Prospective investors should consult
their own tax advisors regarding changes in tax laws.
Additional proposed changes in the U.S. and foreign taxation of businesses could adversely affect us.
The U.S. Congress, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) and other
government and non-government agencies in jurisdictions in which we and our affiliates invest or do business have
maintained a focus on issues related to the taxation of multinational companies. The OECD, which represents a
coalition of member countries, is contemplating changes to numerous long-standing tax principles through its base
erosion and profit shifting (“BEPS”) project, which is focused on a number of issues, including treaty abuse, the
deductibility of interest expense, local nexus requirements, and the shifting of profits between affiliated entities in
different tax jurisdictions. Some OECD member countries have been moving forward on the BEPS agenda but,
because timing of implementation and the specific measures adopted will vary among participating states,
significant uncertainty remains regarding the impact of BEPS proposals. The BEPS project and other reform
proposals, if implemented, could result in increased taxes on our operations and investments.
Complying with certain tax-related requirements may cause us to invest through foreign or domestic
corporations subject to corporate income tax, which may increase our overall tax burden.
In order for us to be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes and not as an association
or publicly traded partnership taxable as a corporation, we must meet the qualifying income exception discussed
above on a continuing basis. In order to effect such treatment, we (or our subsidiaries) may be required to invest
through foreign or domestic corporations subject to corporate income tax, which may increase our overall tax
burden.
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Changes in U.S. and foreign tax law could adversely affect our ability to raise funds from certain investors.
Under the U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (“FATCA”), U.S. withholding agents and all entities in a
broadly defined class of foreign financial institutions (“FFIs”), are required to comply with a complicated and
expansive reporting regime or be subject to a 30% United States withholding tax on certain U.S. payments (and
beginning in 2019, a 30% withholding tax on gross proceeds from the sale of U.S. stocks and securities) and non
U.S. entities which are not FFIs are required to either certify they have no substantial U.S. beneficial ownership or
to report certain information with respect to their substantial U.S. beneficial ownership or be subject to a 30% U.S.
withholding tax on certain U.S. payments (and beginning in 2019, a 30% withholding tax on gross proceeds from
the sale of U.S. stocks and securities). The reporting obligations imposed under FATCA require these foreign
financial institutions to enter into agreements with the IRS and other jurisdictions to obtain and disclose information
about certain investors to the IRS. Additionally, certain non-U.S. entities that are not foreign financial institutions are
required to provide certain certifications or other information regarding their U.S. beneficial ownership or be subject
to certain U.S. withholding taxes. In addition, the administrative and economic costs of compliance with FATCA
may discourage some foreign investors from investing in U.S. funds, which could adversely affect our ability to raise
funds from these investors. Other countries have implemented regimes similar to that of FATCA and more than 90
jurisdictions have agreed to implement the Common Reporting Standard issued by the OECD (“CRS”), which
requires signatories to exchange information regarding residents’ assets and income. Compliance with such
regimes could result in increased administrative and compliance costs and could subject our investment entities to
increased non-U.S. withholding taxes.
Taxable gain or loss on disposition of our Class A units could be more or less than expected.
If a unitholder sells its Class A units, it will recognize a gain or loss equal to the difference between the
amount realized and the adjusted tax basis in those Class A units. Prior distributions to such unitholder in excess of
the total net taxable income allocated to it, which decreased the tax basis in its Class A units, will in effect become
taxable income to such unitholder if the Class A units are sold at a price greater than its tax basis in those Class A
units, even if the price is less than the original cost. A substantial portion of the amount realized, whether or not
representing gain, may be ordinary income to such selling unitholder.
We may hold or acquire certain investments through entities classified as a PFIC or CFC for U.S. federal
income tax purposes.
Certain of our funds’ investments may be in foreign corporations or may be acquired through a foreign
subsidiary that would be classified as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Such an entity may be a
PFIC or a CFC for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Class A unitholders indirectly owning an interest in a PFIC or
a CFC may experience adverse U.S. tax consequences. For example, a portion of the amount a unitholder realizes
on a sale of their Class A units may be recharacterized as ordinary income. In addition, Oaktree Holdings, Ltd. is
treated as a CFC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and, as such, each Class A unitholder that is a U.S. person
is required to include in income its allocable share of Oaktree Holdings, Ltd.’s “Subpart F” income reported by us.
Non-U.S. persons face unique U.S. tax issues from owning Class A units that may result in adverse tax
consequences to them.
In light of our intended investment activities, we may be treated as engaged in a U.S. trade or business for
U.S. federal income tax purposes, which may cause some portion of our income to be treated as effectively
connected income (“ECI”) with respect to non-U.S. holders. Moreover, dividends paid by an investment that we
make in a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) that are attributable to gains from the sale of U.S. real property
interests and sales of certain investments in interests in U.S. real property, including stock of certain U.S.
corporations owning significant U.S. real property, may be treated as ECI with respect to certain non-U.S. holders.
To the extent our income is treated as ECI, non-U.S. holders generally would be subject to withholding tax on
their allocable shares of such income, would be required to file U.S. federal income tax returns for such year
reporting their allocable shares of income effectively connected with such trade or business and any other income
treated as ECI and would be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular U.S. tax rates on any such income (state
and local income taxes and filings may also apply in that event). Non-U.S. holders that are corporations may also
be subject to a 30% branch profits tax on their allocable share of such income. In addition, certain income from
U.S. sources that is not ECI allocable to non-U.S. holders will be reduced by withholding taxes imposed at the
highest effective applicable tax rate.
If we are treated as being engaged in a U.S. trade or business, any gain recognized by a non-U.S. holder on
the sale or exchange of Class A units that is deemed to be effectively connected with such U.S. trade or business
will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as ECI, and hence, such Class A unitholders would be subject
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to U.S. federal income tax on the sale or exchange of such Class A units. Under the Tax Reform Bill, unless an
applicable non-foreign affidavit is furnished or other exception applies, if any portion of gain on a disposition of
Class A units would be treated as ECI, the transferee of an interest in us is required to withhold 10% of the amount
realized on such disposition (and we would be required to withhold from future distributions to the transferee if the
transferee fails to properly withhold). The UST and IRS have announced the temporary suspension of such
withholding tax provisions with respect to any disposition of an interest in a publicly traded partnership until
regulations or other guidance have been issued. Such withholding tax provisions, when effective for publicly traded
partnerships, could impose material tax and administrative burdens on us and our Class A unitholders.
Tax-exempt entities face unique tax issues from owning Class A units that may result in adverse tax
consequences to them.
In light of our intended investment activities, we may derive income that constitutes unrelated business
taxable income (“UBTI”). Consequently, a holder of Class A units that is a tax-exempt entity (including an individual
retirement account or a 401(k) plan participant) may be subject to unrelated business income tax to the extent that
its allocable share of our income consists of UBTI. A tax-exempt partner of a partnership could be treated as
earning UBTI if the partnership regularly engages in a trade or business that is unrelated to the exempt function of
the tax-exempt partner, if the partnership derives income from debt-financed property or if the partnership interest
itself is debt-financed.
We have adopted and may adopt certain income tax accounting positions that may not conform with all
aspects of applicable tax requirements. The IRS may challenge this treatment, which could adversely affect
the value of our Class A units.
We have adopted and may adopt depreciation, amortization and other tax accounting positions that may not
conform with all aspects of existing UST regulations. A successful IRS challenge to those positions could adversely
affect the amount of tax benefits available to our Class A unitholders. It also could affect the timing of these tax
benefits or the amount of gain on the sale of Class A units and could have a negative impact on the value of our
Class A units or result in audits of and adjustments to our Class A unitholders’ tax returns.
Class A unitholders may be subject to foreign, state and local taxes and return filing requirements as a
result of investing in our Class A units.
In addition to U.S. federal income taxes, our Class A unitholders may be subject to other taxes, including
foreign, state and local taxes, unincorporated business taxes and estate, inheritance or intangible taxes that are
imposed by the various jurisdictions in which we do business or own property now or in the future, even if our
Class A unitholders do not reside in any of those jurisdictions. Our Class A unitholders may be required to file
foreign, state and local income tax returns and pay foreign, state and local income taxes in some or all of these
jurisdictions. Furthermore, Class A unitholders may be subject to penalties for failure to comply with those
requirements. It is the responsibility of each Class A unitholder to file all U.S. federal, foreign, state and local tax
returns that may be required of such Class A unitholder.
Although we expect to provide estimates by the deadline for filing U.S. income tax returns each year, we do
not necessarily expect to be able to furnish definitive Schedule K-1s to IRS Form 1065 to each unitholder
prior to such deadline, which means that holders of Class A units who are U.S. taxpayers may want to file
annually a request for an extension of the due date of their income tax returns.
It may require a substantial period of time after the end of our fiscal year to obtain the requisite information
from all lower-tier entities to enable us to prepare and deliver Schedule K-1s to IRS Form 1065. In the event we
cannot provide timely Schedule K-1s, we expect to provide estimates of such tax information (including a Class A
unitholder’s allocable share of our income, gain, loss and deduction for our preceding year) by the deadline for filing
U.S. income tax returns each year; in that event however, there is no assurance that the Schedule K-1s, which
would be provided after the estimates, will be the same as our estimates. For this reason, holders of Class A units
who are U.S. taxpayers may want to file with the IRS (and certain states) a request for an extension past the due
date of their income tax returns.
In addition, in the event we provide separate estimates and subsequent Schedule K-1s, it is possible that a
Class A unitholder will be required to file amended income tax returns as a result of adjustments to items on the
corresponding income tax returns of the partnership. Any obligation for a Class A unitholder to file amended income
tax returns for that or any other reason, including any costs incurred in the preparation or filing of such returns, is
the responsibility of each Class A unitholder.
67
Tax consequences to the OCGH unitholders may give rise to conflicts of interests.
As a result of an unrealized built-in gain attributable to the value of our assets held by the Oaktree Operating
Group entities at the time of the 2007 Private Offering and unrealized built-in gain attributable to OCGH at the time
of our initial public offering in April 2012, upon the taxable sale, refinancing or disposition of the assets owned by
the Oaktree Operating Group entities, the OCGH unitholders may incur different and significantly greater tax
liabilities as a result of the disproportionately greater allocations of items of taxable income and gain to the OCGH
unitholders upon a realization event. As the OCGH unitholders will not receive a corresponding greater distribution
of cash proceeds, they may, subject to applicable fiduciary or contractual duties, have different objectives regarding
the appropriate pricing, timing and other material terms of any sale, refinancing or disposition, or whether to sell
such assets at all. Decisions made with respect to an acceleration or deferral of income or the sale or disposition of
assets may also influence the timing and amount of payments that are received by an exchanging or selling OCGH
unitholder under the tax receivable agreement. Decisions made regarding a change of control also could have a
material influence on the timing and amount of payments received by the OCGH unitholders pursuant to the tax
receivable agreement. Because our senior executives hold their economic interest in our business primarily
through OCGH and control both us and our manager (which is entitled to designate all the members of our board of
directors), these differing objectives may give rise to conflicts of interest. We will be entitled to resolve these
conflicts as described elsewhere in this annual report. Please see “—Risks Relating to Our Organization and
Structure—Our senior executives hold a small amount of their economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group
through us, which may give rise to conflicts of interest, and it is difficult for a Class A unitholder to successfully
challenge a resolution of a conflict of interest by us.”
Due to uncertainty in the proper application of applicable law, we may over-withhold or under-withhold on
distributions to Class A unitholders.
For each calendar year, we will report to Class A unitholders and the IRS the amount of distributions we
made to Class A unitholders and the amount of U.S. federal income tax (if any) that we withheld on those
distributions. The proper application to us of rules for withholding under Section 1441 of the Code (applicable to
certain dividends, interest and similar items) is unclear. Because the documentation we receive may not properly
reflect the identities of Class A unitholders at any particular time (in light of possible sales of Class A units), we may
over-withhold or under-withhold with respect to a particular holder of Class A units. For example, we may impose
withholding, remit that amount to the IRS and thus reduce the amount of a distribution paid to a non-U.S. Holder. It
may turn out, however, that the corresponding amount of our income was not properly allocable to such holder, and
the withholding should have been less than the actual withholding. Such holder would be entitled to a credit against
the holder’s U.S. tax liability for all withholding, including any such excess withholding, but if the withholding
exceeded the holder’s U.S. tax liability, the holder would have to apply for a refund to obtain the benefit of the
excess withholding. Similarly, we may fail to withhold on a distribution, and it may turn out that the corresponding
income was properly allocable to a non-U.S. Holder and withholding should have been imposed. In that event, we
intend to pay the under-withheld amount to the IRS, and we may treat such under-withholding as an expense that
will be borne by all holders of Class A units on a pro rata basis (since we may be unable to allocate any such
excess withholding tax cost to the relevant non-U.S. holder).
Certain U.S. holders of common units are subject to additional tax on “net investment income.”
U.S. holders that are individuals, estates or trusts are subject to a Medicare tax of 3.8% on “net investment
income” (or undistributed “net investment income,” in the case of estates and trusts) for each taxable year, with
such tax applying to the lesser of such income or the excess of such person’s adjusted gross income (with certain
adjustments) over a specified amount. Net investment income includes net income from interest, dividends,
annuities, royalties and rents and net gain attributable to the disposition of investment property. Net income and
gain attributable to an investment in our Class A units will be included in a U.S. holder’s “net investment income”
subject to this Medicare tax.
We may be liable for adjustments to our tax returns as a result of partnership audit legislation.
Legislation enacted in 2015 significantly changed the rules for U.S. federal income tax audits of partnerships.
Such audits will continue to be conducted at the partnership level, but with respect to tax returns for taxable years
beginning after December 31, 2017, and, unless a partnership qualifies for and affirmatively elects an alternative
procedure, any adjustments to the amount of tax due (including interest and penalties) will be payable by the
partnership. Under the elective alternative procedure, a partnership would issue information returns to persons who
were partners in the audited year, who would then be required to take the adjustments into account in calculating
their own tax liability, and the partnership would not be liable for the adjustments. If a partnership elects the
alternative procedure for a given adjustment, the amount of taxes for which its partners would be liable would be
68
increased by any applicable penalties and a special interest charge. There can be no assurance that we will be
eligible to make such an election or that we will, in fact, make such an election for any given adjustment. If we do
not or are not able to make such an election, then (1) our then-current common unitholders, in the aggregate, could
indirectly bear income tax liabilities in excess of the aggregate amount of taxes that would have been due had we
elected the alternative procedure, and (2) a given common unitholder may indirectly bear taxes attributable to
income allocable to other common unitholders or former common unitholders, including taxes (as well as interest
and penalties) with respect to periods prior to such holder’s ownership of common units. Amounts available for
distribution to our common unitholders may be reduced as a result of our obligation to pay any taxes associated
with an adjustment. Many issues and the overall effect of this new legislation on us are uncertain, and common
unitholders should consult their own tax advisors regarding all aspects of this legislation as it affects their particular
circumstances.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 2. Properties
Properties
Our principal executive offices are located in leased office space at 333 South Grand Avenue, 28th Floor, Los
Angeles, California 90071. We also lease the space for our offices in New York City, Stamford, Houston, London,
Frankfurt, Paris, Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo and Dubai. Certain affiliates of
our managed funds lease office space in Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Dublin. We do not own any real property.
We consider our facilities to be suitable and adequate for the management and operation of our business.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
For a discussion of legal proceedings, please see the section entitled “Legal Actions” in note 16 to our
consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report, which section is incorporated herein by
reference.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
None.
69
PART II.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
Equity Securities
Market Information
Our Class A units began trading on the NYSE on April 12, 2012 under the symbol “OAK”. The following table
sets forth the high and low intra-day sales prices per unit of our Class A units, for the periods indicated, as reported
by the NYSE:
2017
2016
High
Low
High
Low
First Quarter
..................................................................................................... $ 46.70
$ 37.80
$ 50.15
$ 38.66
Second Quarter
................................................................................................
Third Quarter
....................................................................................................
Fourth Quarter ..................................................................................................
47.95
48.50
48.05
44.60
43.75
41.10
49.65
48.94
43.70
43.72
41.21
36.95
The number of holders of record of our Class A units as of February 12, 2018 was 293. This does not
include the number of Class A unitholders that hold units in “street-name” through banks or broker-dealers.
Cash Distribution Policy
We intend to make distributions to our Class A unitholders quarterly, following the respective quarter end.
Distributions to our Class A unitholders are funded by our share of the Oaktree Operating Group’s distributions. We
use distributable earnings, a non-GAAP performance measure derived from adjusted net income, to measure our
earnings at the Oaktree Operating Group level without the effects of the consolidated funds for purposes of, among
other things, assisting in the determination of equity distributions from the Oaktree Operating Group. By excluding
the results of our consolidated funds and investment income or loss, which are not directly available to fund our
operations or make equity distributions, and including the portion of distributions from Oaktree and non-Oaktree
funds and companies to us that represents the income or loss component of the distributions and not a return of our
capital contributions, distributable earnings aids us in measuring amounts that are actually available to meet our
obligations under the tax receivable agreement and our liabilities for expenses incurred at OCG and the
Intermediate Holding Companies, as well as for distributions to Class A and OCGH unitholders.
We intend to distribute substantially all of the excess of our share of distributable earnings, net of income
taxes, as determined by our board of directors after taking into account factors it deems relevant, such as, but not
limited to, working capital levels; known or anticipated cash needs; business and investment opportunities; general
economic and business conditions; our obligations under our debt instruments or other agreements; our compliance
with applicable laws; the level and character of taxable income that flows through to our Class A unitholders; the
availability and terms of outside financing; the possible repurchase of our Class A units in open market transactions,
in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise; the possible repurchase of OCGH units; providing for future
distributions to our Class A and OCGH unitholders; and growing our capital base. We are not currently restricted by
any contract from making distributions to our unitholders, although certain of our subsidiaries are bound by credit
agreements that contain certain restricted payment and/or other covenants, which may have the effect of limiting
the amount of distributions that we receive from our subsidiaries. In addition, we are not permitted to make a
distribution under Section 18-607 of the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act if, after giving effect to the
distribution, our liabilities would exceed the fair value of our assets.
The declaration, payment and determination of the amount of equity distributions, if any, is at the sole
discretion of our board of directors, which may change our distribution policy at any time. Please see “Risk Factors
—Risks Relating to Our Class A Units—We cannot assure you that our intended quarterly distributions will be paid
each quarter or at all.”
Class A unitholders receive their share of these distributions from the Oaktree Operating Group, net of
expenses that we and our Intermediate Holding Companies bear directly, such as income taxes or payment
obligations under the tax receivable agreement. Our quarterly distributable earnings may be affected by potential
seasonal factors that may, in turn, affect the level of the cash distributions applicable to a particular quarter. For
example, we generally receive tax-related incentive distributions from certain closed-end funds in the first quarter of
70
the year, which if received generate distributable earnings in that period. Additionally, DoubleLine’s corporate
distributions to us may vary in length of period covered. For example, the quarterly distributions made in the
second and fourth quarters typically have covered two and four months of activity, respectively. The distribution
amount for any given period is likely to vary materially due to these and other factors.
Certain transactions involving the exchange of OCGH units, including our 2007 Private Offering, 2012 initial
public offering, and follow-on offerings in May 2013, March 2014, March 2015 and February 2018, increase the tax
basis of the tangible and intangible assets of the Oaktree Operating Group. For more information, please see notes
15 and 21 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report.
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) was signed into law, which, among other
items, lowers the U.S. corporate tax rate. As a result, the existing deferred tax assets and liabilities of Oaktree
Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. were remeasured. The remeasurement resulted in a net reduction to
GAAP net income and adjusted net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC of $33.2 million, comprised
of $178.2 million in additional tax expense from the remeasurement of our deferred tax assets at lower corporate
tax rates and a $145.1 million benefit to other income from the remeasurement of our tax receivable agreement
liability, the value of which is based upon an 85% share of certain of our deferred tax assets.
Assuming no further material changes in the relevant tax law and that we earn sufficient taxable income to
realize the full tax benefit of the increased amortization of our assets, we expect that reductions in future quarterly
distributions to Class A unitholders associated with payments under the tax receivable agreement will aggregate
$192.1 million through 2039. As shown in the table below, we estimate that an aggregate $15.6 million of that total
will reduce fiscal year 2018’s four quarterly distributions to Class A unitholders, which will be reflected as
adjustments taken in arriving at the cash distribution payable per Class A unit. Future estimated reductions in
quarterly distributions to Class A unitholders associated with payments under the tax receivable agreement are
subject to increase in the event of additional exchanges of OCGH units that result in an increase to such tax bases.
These reductions are in addition to the reductions taken for income taxes and other expenses that Oaktree or its
Intermediate Holding Companies bear directly. The November 2015 exchange of OCGH units did not result in an
increase in the tax basis of the tangible and intangible assets of the Oaktree Operating Group and, therefore, did
not result in an increase to the tax receivable agreement liability. Please see notes 12 and 15 to our consolidated
financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for more information regarding historical distributions
per Class A unit and the tax receivable agreement.
Transactions
Future Estimated Reductions Associated
With the Tax Receivable Agreement
Fiscal Year
2017
Reductions (1)
Total Future
Aggregate
Reductions
($ in millions)
Fiscal Year
2018
Reductions (1)
Reductions
Through
Fiscal Year
2007 Private Offering ................................................................... $
Initial public offering ......................................................................
May 2013 Offering ........................................................................
March 2014 Offering .....................................................................
March 2015 Offering .....................................................................
February 2018 Offering ................................................................
$
4.2
4.5
5.6
4.0
3.3
—
$
16.3
32.2
45.5
34.6
29.2
34.3
3.3
2.8
3.4
2.5
2.0
1.6
Total
............................................................................................. $
21.6
$
192.1
$
15.6
2029
2033
2034
2035
2036
2039
(1) This column represents reductions in quarterly distributions to Class A unitholders associated with payments under the tax
receivable agreement attributable to the applicable fiscal year.
71
Set forth below are the distributions per Class A unit that were paid on the indicated payment dates to the
holders of record as of a date that was two to five business days prior to the payment date.
Payment Date
February 23, 2018
November 10, 2017
August 11, 2017
May 12, 2017
Applicable to Quarterly
Period Ended
December 31, 2017
September 30, 2017
June 30, 2017
March 31, 2017
Total fiscal year 2017 .................................................................................................................................................. $
February 24, 2017
November 14, 2016
August 12, 2016
May 13, 2016
December 31, 2016
September 30, 2016
June 30, 2016
March 31, 2016
$
Total fiscal year 2016 .................................................................................................................................................. $
February 26, 2016
November 12, 2015
August 13, 2015
May 14, 2015
December 31, 2015
September 30, 2015
June 30, 2015
March 31, 2015
$
Total fiscal year 2015 .................................................................................................................................................. $
Distribution
per Unit
$
0.76
0.56
1.31
0.71
3.34
0.63
0.65
0.58
0.55
2.41
0.47
0.40
0.50
0.64
2.01
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Purchases of Equity Securities in the Fourth Quarter of 2017
None.
72
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The following sets forth selected historical consolidated financial and other data of Oaktree Capital Group,
LLC as of and for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013. The following data should be
read together with “—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and
the historical financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report.
We derived the selected historical financial data as of and for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016,
2015, 2014 and 2013 from our audited consolidated financial statements. The audited consolidated statements of
operations for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, and the consolidated statements of financial
condition as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 are included elsewhere in this annual report. The audited
consolidated statements of operations and financial condition for all other periods are not included in this annual
report. The selected historical financial data are not necessarily indicative of the expected future operating results
of Oaktree.
As of or for the Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
(in thousands, except per unit data or as otherwise indicated)
Consolidated Statements of Operations Data: (1)
Total revenues .......................................................................... $ 1,469,767
$ 1,125,746
$
201,905
$
193,894
$
194,922
Total expenses .........................................................................
Total other income (loss) (2) ......................................................
Income (loss) before income taxes ..........................................
Income taxes (2) ........................................................................
(1,025,343)
(789,336)
(940,908)
(947,477)
(1,107,062)
460,500
904,924
272,212
(776,410)
2,947,671
7,149,104
608,622
(1,515,413)
2,194,088
6,236,964
(215,442)
(42,519)
(17,549)
(18,536)
(26,232)
Net income (loss) .....................................................................
689,482
566,103
(1,532,962)
2,175,552
6,210,732
Less:
Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests
in consolidated funds ...................................................
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in
consolidated subsidiaries .............................................
(33,204)
(22,921)
1,809,683
(1,649,890)
(5,163,939)
(424,784)
(348,477)
(205,372)
(399,379)
(824,795)
Net income attributable to OCG ............................................... $
231,494
Distributions declared per Class A unit ..................................... $
Net income per Class A unit ..................................................... $
3.21
3.61
$
$
$
194,705
2.25
3.11
$
$
$
71,349
2.10
1.45
$
$
$
126,283
3.15
2.97
$
$
$
221,998
4.71
6.35
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding ..........
64,148
62,565
49,324
42,582
34,979
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition Data: (1)
Total assets .............................................................................. $ 9,014,796
$ 7,649,110
$ 51,762,731
$ 53,320,716
$ 45,243,708
Debt obligations .......................................................................
4,828,267
4,284,063
9,619,455
7,133,041
2,857,099
Non-controlling redeemable interests in consolidated funds ....
860,548
344,047
38,173,125
41,681,155
38,834,831
(1)
In the first quarter of 2016, Oaktree adopted the new consolidation and collateralized financing entity guidance under the modified
retrospective approach. The modified retrospective approach did not require prior periods to be recast. The adoption resulted in the
deconsolidation of substantially all of Oaktree’s investment funds.
(2) On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) was signed into law, which, among other items, lowers the U.S.
corporate tax rate. The 2017 results reflect the estimated impact from the enactment of the Tax Act, which resulted in a net reduction to
the Company’s net income attributable to OCG of $33.2 million, comprised of $178.2 million in additional tax expense from the
remeasurement of our deferred tax assets at lower enacted corporate tax rates and a $145.1 million benefit to other income from the
remeasurement of our tax receivable agreement liability, the value of which is based upon an 85% share of certain of our deferred tax
assets.
73
GAAP Results:
As of or for the Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
(in thousands, except per unit data or as otherwise indicated)
Revenues ................................................................................. $ 1,469,767
Net income-OCG (1) ..................................................................
Net income per Class A unit (1) .................................................
231,494
3.61
$ 1,125,746
$
201,905
$
193,894
$
194,922
194,705
3.11
71,349
1.45
126,283
221,998
2.97
6.35
Non-GAAP Results: (2)(3)
Adjusted revenues ...................................................................
1,727,710
1,362,202
1,065,864
1,371,887
Adjusted net income .................................................................
Adjusted net income-OCG (1) ....................................................
701,100
221,701
572,374
190,724
308,315
78,671
573,094
137,150
2,038,750
1,080,707
223,113
Distributable earnings revenues ...............................................
1,674,948
1,270,915
1,166,974
1,385,209
1,944,656
Distributable earnings ..............................................................
Distributable earnings-OCG .....................................................
Fee-related earnings revenues ................................................
Fee-related earnings ................................................................
Fee-related earnings-OCG (1) ...................................................
716,307
266,983
747,261
223,857
54,496
526,550
179,432
785,673
255,863
88,947
443,957
118,105
753,805
214,943
65,027
606,136
145,370
762,823
248,260
59,915
984,266
203,595
749,901
260,115
50,123
Per Class A Unit: (1)
Adjusted net income ................................................................. $
Distributable earnings ..............................................................
Fee-related earnings ................................................................
$
3.46
4.16
0.85
$
3.05
2.87
1.42
$
1.59
2.39
1.32
$
3.22
3.41
1.41
6.38
5.82
1.43
Weighted average number of Operating Group units
outstanding ..........................................................................
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding ..........
155,791
64,148
154,687
62,565
153,751
49,324
152,660
42,582
150,971
34,979
Operating Metrics:
Assets under management (in millions):
Assets under management .............................................. $
100,228
$
100,504
$
97,359
$
90,831
$
Management fee-generating assets under management .
Incentive-creating assets under management ..................
Uncalled capital commitments (4) ......................................
80,585
32,705
20,470
79,767
33,627
20,755
78,897
31,923
21,650
78,079
33,861
10,333
83,605
71,950
32,379
13,169
Accrued incentives (fund level): (5)
Incentives created (fund level) .........................................
637,466
784,032
(100,384)
164,370
1,168,836
Incentives created (fund level), net of associated
incentive income compensation expense .....................
302,706
320,472
(66,399)
24,228
549,545
Accrued incentives (fund level) ........................................
1,920,339
2,014,097
1,585,217
1,949,407
2,276,439
Accrued incentives (fund level), net of associated
incentive income compensation expense .....................
920,852
946,542
811,540
999,923
1,235,226
Statements of Financial Condition Data – Oaktree and
Operating Subsidiaries: (6)
Cash and cash-equivalents ...................................................... $
481,631
$
291,470
$
476,046
$
405,290
$
390,721
U.S. Treasury and other securities ...........................................
176,602
Corporate investments .............................................................
1,691,549
Total assets ..............................................................................
3,342,665
Debt obligations .......................................................................
746,274
Total liabilities ...........................................................................
1,352,444
Total unitholders’ capital ...........................................................
1,990,221
757,578
1,480,928
3,313,714
745,897
1,445,891
1,867,823
661,116
1,434,109
3,254,082
846,354
1,572,185
1,681,897
655,529
1,515,443
3,263,382
845,583
1,544,993
1,718,389
676,600
1,197,173
2,811,136
573,473
1,120,886
1,690,250
(1) On December 22, 2017, the Tax Act was signed into law, which, among other items, lowers the U.S. corporate tax rate. The 2017 results
reflect the estimated impact from the enactment of the Tax Act, which resulted in a net reduction to the Company’s GAAP net income and
adjusted net income attributable to OCG of $33.2 million, comprised of $178.2 million in additional tax expense from the remeasurement
of our deferred tax assets at lower enacted corporate tax rates and a $145.1 million benefit to other income from the remeasurement of
our tax receivable agreement liability, the value of which is based upon an 85% share of certain of our deferred tax assets.
(2) Oaktree discloses certain revenues and financial measures, including measures that are calculated and presented on a basis other than
generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“non-GAAP”). Examples of such non-GAAP measures are identified in the
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table above. Such non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, net income, net
income per Class A unit or other financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial
measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are presented in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Non-GAAP Financial Data—Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Results” included
elsewhere in this annual report. All non-GAAP measures and all interim results presented in this release are unaudited.
(3) Beginning with the second quarter of 2017, the definition of ANI was modified with respect to third-party placement costs associated with
closed-end funds and liability-classified EVUs to conform to the GAAP treatment. Under GAAP, placement costs are expensed as
incurred and liability-classified EVUs are remeasured as of each reporting date. Previously for ANI, placement costs were capitalized and
amortized in proportion to the associated management fee stream, and liability-classified EVUs were treated as equity-classified awards.
All prior periods have been recast for these changes.
(4) Uncalled capital commitments represent undrawn capital commitments by partners (including Oaktree as general partner) of our closed-
end funds in their investment periods and certain evergreen funds. If a fund distributes capital during its investment period, that capital is
typically subject to possible recall, in which case it is included in uncalled capital commitments.
(5) Our funds record as accrued incentives the incentive income that would be paid to us if the funds were liquidated at their reported values
as of the date of the financial statements. Incentives created (fund level) refers to the gross amount of potential incentives generated by
the funds during the period. We refer to the amount of incentive income recognized as revenue by us as incentive income. Amounts
recognized by us as incentive income are no longer included in accrued incentives (fund level), the term we use for remaining fund-level
accruals. Incentives created (fund level), incentive income and accrued incentives (fund level) are presented gross, without deduction for
direct compensation expense that is owed to our investment professionals associated with the particular fund when we earn the incentive
income. We call that charge “incentive income compensation expense.” Incentive income compensation expense varies by the
investment strategy and vintage of the particular fund, among many factors.
(6) Represents Oaktree and its operating subsidiaries before the consolidation of our funds.
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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial
statements of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC and the related notes included within this annual report. This discussion
contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties and assumptions relating to our
operations, financial results, financial condition, business prospects, growth strategy and liquidity. The factors listed
under “Risk Factors” and “Forward-Looking Statements” in this annual report provide examples of risks,
uncertainties and events that may cause our actual results to differ materially from the expectations described in
any forward-looking statements.
Business Overview
Oaktree is a leader among global investment managers specializing in alternative investments, with $100.2
billion in AUM as of December 31, 2017. Our mission is to deliver superior investment results with risk under
control and to conduct our business with the highest integrity. We emphasize an opportunistic, value-oriented and
risk-controlled approach to investments in distressed debt, corporate debt (including high yield debt and senior
loans), control investing, convertible securities, real estate and listed equities. Over more than three decades, we
have developed a large and growing client base through our ability to identify and capitalize on opportunities for
attractive investment returns in less efficient markets.
We manage assets on behalf of many of the most significant institutional investors in the world. Our
clientele includes 75 of the 100 largest U.S. pension plans, 38 state retirement plans in the United States, over 400
corporations and/or their pension funds, over 350 university, charitable and other endowments and foundations,
over 15 sovereign wealth funds, and over 350 other non-U.S. institutional investors. As measured by AUM,
approximately 73% of our clients are invested in two or more different investment strategies, and 37% are invested
in four or more. Headquartered in Los Angeles, we serve these clients with over 900 employees and offices in 18
cities worldwide.
Our business is comprised of one segment, our investment management business, which consists of the
investment management services that we provide to our clients. Our revenue flows from the management fees and
incentive income generated by the funds that we manage, as well as the investment income earned from the
investments we make in our funds, third-party funds and other companies. The management fees that we receive
are based on the contractual terms of the relevant fund and are typically calculated as a fixed percentage of the
capital commitments (as adjusted for distributions during a fund’s liquidation period), drawn capital, cost basis or
NAV of the particular fund. Incentive income represents our share (typically 20%) of the investors’ profits in most of
the closed-end and evergreen funds. Investment income reflects the investment return on a mark-to-market basis
and our equity participation on the amounts that we invest in Oaktree and third-party funds, as well as in CLOs and
other companies.
Business Environment and Developments
As a global investment manager, we are affected by a wide range of factors, including the condition of the
global economy and financial markets; the relative attractiveness of our investment strategies and investors’
demand for them; and regulatory or other governmental policies or actions. Global economic conditions can
significantly impact the values of our funds’ investments and our ability to make new investments or sell existing
investments for our funds. Historically, however, the diversified nature of both our investment strategies and our
revenue mix has generally allowed us to benefit from both strong and weak economic environments. Weak
economies and the declining financial markets that typically accompany them tend to dampen our revenues from
asset-based management fees, investment realizations or price appreciation, but their prospect can present us with
opportunities to raise relatively larger amounts of capital for certain strategies, especially Distressed Debt.
Additionally, weak financial markets may also present us with more opportunities to make investments for our funds
at reduced prices. Conversely, strong financial markets generally increase the value of our funds’ investments,
which positions us for growth in management fees that are based on asset value, and typically create favorable exit
opportunities that enhance the prospect for incentive income and fund-related investment income proceeds. Those
same markets may delay or diminish opportunities to deploy capital and thus management fees from certain of our
funds.
Global equity markets produced strong gains in 2017, generally supported by positive corporate earnings
and global economic data, low unemployment rates, and the passing of new tax legislation in December lowering
corporate tax rates. U.S. equities reached all-time highs in 2017, with the S&P 500 Index and Russell 2000 Index
finishing the year with total returns of 21.8% and 14.6%, respectively. Non-U.S. equities, in general, outperformed
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U.S. markets, with the MSCI ACWI ex-USA Index returning 27.2% for the year. Emerging market equities, as
measured by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, returned 37.5%, and European equity markets, as measured by
the MSCI Europe Index, returned 26.3%. Credit markets performed relatively well for the year, despite the U.S.
Federal Reserve having hiked short-term interest rates three times during 2017. U.S. high yield bonds, as
measured by the Citigroup U.S. High Yield Cash-Pay Capped Index, returned 6.9%, and emerging market bonds,
as measured by the JP Morgan Corporate Emerging Markets Bond Index (CEMBI), returned 10.5%. The 10-year
U.S. Treasury yield finished 2017 at 2.40%, slightly down from 2.45% at the beginning of the year.
Against this backdrop, our incentive-creating closed-end funds delivered an overall blended gross return for
the year of 14.0%. As of December 31, 2017, our AUM was $100.2 billion and management fee-generating AUM
was $80.6 billion. Gross capital raised in 2017 was $8.9 billion, and uncalled capital commitments as of December
31, 2017 were $20.5 billion. Of these commitments, $12.7 billion were not yet generating management fees
(“shadow AUM”). The largest portion of the shadow AUM, at $8.8 billion, was represented by Oaktree Opportunities
Fund Xb (“Opps Xb”). Currently, we do not expect Opps Xb to start its investment period and thus begin generating
management fees based on committed capital before the fourth quarter of 2018. Most of the remaining $3.9 billion
of shadow AUM charges management fees based on drawn capital or cost basis and, therefore, we currently
expect it will start generating management fees on a gradual basis over multiple years.
Tax Legislation
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) was signed into law, which, among other
items, lowers the U.S. corporate tax rate. The 2017 results reflect the estimated impact from the enactment of the
Tax Act, which resulted in a net reduction to GAAP net income and adjusted net income attributable to Oaktree
Capital Group, LLC of $33.2 million, comprised of $178.2 million in additional tax expense from the remeasurement
of our deferred tax assets at lower corporate tax rates and a $145.1 million benefit to other income from the
remeasurement of our tax receivable agreement liability, the value of which is based upon an 85% share of certain
of our deferred tax assets.
Debt Issuance and Repayment
On December 18, 2017, we issued $250 million of 3.78% senior notes due 2032 (the “Notes”). In
connection with the Notes offering, we entered into a cross-currency swap agreement to euros, reducing the
interest cost to 1.95% per year. The proceeds from the sale of the Notes and cash on hand were used to redeem
the $250 million of 6.75% senior notes due 2019 (the “2019 Notes”) and to pay the related make-whole premium to
holders thereof. The redemption of the 2019 Notes resulted in a one-time, pre-tax charge of $22 million to GAAP
net income and adjusted net income in the fourth quarter of 2017. For distributable earnings, the charge will be
amortized through the original maturity date of December 2019.
Acquisition
On October 17, 2017, we completed a transaction in which we became the new investment adviser to two
BDCs: Oaktree Specialty Lending Corporation (NASDAQ: OCSL) and Oaktree Strategic Income Corporation
(NASDAQ: OCSI). Upon the closing of the transaction (the “BDC acquisition”), we paid $320 million in cash to Fifth
Street Management LLC, net of certain transaction-related expenses. The financial results in this annual report
include the impact of the BDC acquisition beginning on October 17, 2017.
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Understanding Our Results—Consolidation of Oaktree Funds
Generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) requires us to consolidate entities
in which we have a direct or indirect controlling financial interest based on either a variable interest model or voting
interest model. We adopted the new consolidation guidance on January 1, 2016 on a modified retrospective basis.
As a result, prior periods were not recast. There was no impact on retained earnings or net income attributable to
us. Under the new consolidation guidance, a limited partnership or similar entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”)
if the unaffiliated limited partners do not have substantive kick-out or participating rights. Most of the Oaktree funds
are VIEs because they have not granted unaffiliated limited partners substantive kick-out or participating rights.
Oaktree consolidates those VIEs in which we are the primary beneficiary. For entities that are not VIEs,
consolidation is evaluated through a majority voting interest model. Please see note 2 to our consolidated financial
statements included elsewhere in this annual report for more information.
We do not consolidate most of the Oaktree funds that are VIEs because we are not the primary beneficiary
due to the fact that our fee arrangements are considered at-market and thus not deemed to be variable interests,
and we do not hold any other interests in those funds that are considered to be more than insignificant. However,
investment vehicles in which we have a significant investment, such as CLOs and certain Oaktree funds, are
consolidated under GAAP (“consolidated funds”). When a CLO or fund is consolidated, we reflect the assets,
liabilities, revenues, expenses and cash flows of the consolidated funds on a gross basis, and the majority of the
economic interests in those consolidated funds, which are held by third-party investors, are reflected as debt
obligations of CLOs or non-controlling interests in consolidated funds in the consolidated financial statements. All of
the revenues earned by us as investment manager of the consolidated funds are eliminated in consolidation.
However, because the eliminated amounts are earned from and funded by third-party investors, the consolidation of
a fund does not impact net income or loss attributable to us.
Certain entities in which we have the ability to exert significant influence, including unconsolidated Oaktree
funds for which we act as general partner, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting.
Management makes operating decisions and assesses business performance based on financial and
operating metrics and data that are presented without the consolidation of any funds. For a more detailed
discussion of the factors that affect the results of operations of our business, please see “—Non-GAAP Results”
below.
Revenues
Our business generates three types of revenue: management fees, incentive income and investment
income. Management fees are billed monthly or quarterly based on annual rates and are typically earned for each
of the funds that we manage. The contractual terms of management fees generally vary by fund structure.
Management fees also may include performance-based fees earned from certain open-end and evergreen fund
accounts. We also have the opportunity to earn incentive income from most of our closed-end and evergreen
funds. Our closed-end funds generally provide that we receive incentive income only after we have returned to our
investors all of their contributed capital plus an annual preferred return, typically 8%. Once this occurs, we
generally receive as incentive income 80% of all distributions otherwise attributable to our investors, and those
investors receive the remaining 20% until we have received, as incentive income, 20% of all such distributions in
excess of the contributed capital from the inception of the fund. Thereafter, all such future distributions attributable
to our investors are distributed 80% to those investors and 20% to us as incentive income. Our third revenue
source, investment income, represents our pro-rata share of income or loss from our investments, generally in our
capacity as general partner in our funds and as an investor in our CLOs and third-party managed funds and
companies.
Our consolidated revenues reflect the elimination of all management fees, incentive income and investment
income earned by us as investment manager of our consolidated funds. Investment income is presented within the
other income (loss) section of our consolidated statements of operations. Please see “Business—Structure and
Operation of Our Business—Structure of Funds” in this annual report for a detailed discussion of the structure of our
funds.
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Expenses
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits expense reflects all compensation-related items not directly related to incentive
income, investment income or the vesting of Class A units, OCGH units, OCGH equity value units (“EVUs”) and
deferred equity units, and includes salaries, bonuses, compensation based on management fees or a definition of
profits, employee benefits, payroll taxes and phantom equity awards. Phantom equity awards represent liability-
classified awards subject to vesting and remeasurement at the end of each reporting period. Phantom equity award
expense reflects the vesting of those liability-classified awards, the equity distribution declared in the period and
changes in the Class A unit trading price.
Equity-based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense reflects the non-cash charge associated with grants of Class A units,
OCGH units, EVUs and deferred equity units. Our GAAP statements of operations include equity-based
compensation expense for units granted both before and after our initial public offering. Our non-GAAP measure of
adjusted net income differs from GAAP because it excludes equity-based compensation expense for units granted
before our initial public offering (please see “—Non-GAAP Measures—Adjusted Net Income” below).
As of December 31, 2017, there was $151.5 million of unrecognized compensation expense for GAAP
purposes, which is expected to be recognized as expense in our GAAP consolidated financial statements over a
weighted average vesting period of 3.8 years. As of December 31, 2017, there was $135.1 million of unrecognized
compensation expense for adjusted net income, with the difference versus the GAAP figure representing unit grants
made before our initial public offering. The $135.1 million is expected to be recognized as expense in adjusted net
income over a weighted average vesting period of approximately 3.9 years, as shown in the table below. These
amounts are subject to change as a result of future unit grants, including those from our annual bonus awards,
which are typically issued in the first quarter of the following fiscal year, forfeitures, possible modifications to award
terms, changes in the fair value of liability-classified EVUs, and changes in the estimated number of deferred equity
units that are expected to vest.
The following table summarizes the estimated amount of equity-based compensation expense to be
included in adjusted net income:
Equity-based Compensation Expense
Included in ANI
Estimated expense from equity
grants awarded through
December 2017 .....................
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
Total
(in millions)
$
44.5
$
37.5
$
22.5
$
9.6
$
6.7
$
14.3
$
135.1
Incentive Income Compensation
Incentive income compensation expense primarily reflects compensation directly related to incentive
income, which generally consists of percentage interests (sometimes referred to as “points”) that we grant to our
investment professionals associated with the particular fund that generated the incentive income, and secondarily,
compensation directly related to investment income. There is no fixed percentage for the incentive income-related
portion of this compensation, either by fund or strategy. In general, within a particular strategy more recent funds
have a higher percentage of aggregate incentive income compensation expense than do older funds. The
percentage that consolidated incentive income compensation expense represents of the particular period’s
consolidated incentive income may not be meaningful because (a) the criteria for recognizing income and expense
differ under GAAP and thus may result in timing differences, and (b) incentive income from consolidated funds is
eliminated in consolidation, whereas no incentive income compensation expense is eliminated in consolidation. For
the most meaningful percentage relationship, please see “—Non-GAAP Results” below.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense includes costs related to occupancy, outside auditors, tax
professionals, legal advisers, research, consultants, travel and entertainment, communications and information
services, business process outsourcing, foreign-exchange activity, insurance, placement costs, changes in the
contingent consideration liability, and other general items related directly to the Company’s operations. These
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expenses are net of amounts borne by fund investors and are not offset by credits attributable to fund investors’
non-controlling interests in consolidated funds.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense includes costs associated with the purchase of furniture and
equipment, capitalized software, office leasehold improvements, corporate aircraft and acquired intangibles.
Furniture and equipment and capitalized software costs are depreciated using the straight-line method over the
estimated useful life of the asset, which is generally three to five years. Leasehold improvements are amortized
using the straight-line method over the shorter of the respective estimated useful life or the lease term. Company-
owned aircraft are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life. Acquired intangibles
primarily relate to contractual rights and are amortized over their estimated useful lives, which range from seven to
25 years. The BDC acquisition in October 2017 will result in amortization expense related to acquired intangibles of
approximately $12.8 million per annum over the next 25 years.
Consolidated Fund Expenses
Consolidated fund expenses consist primarily of costs, expenses and fees that are incurred by, or arise out
of the operation and activities of or otherwise are related to, our consolidated funds, including, without limitation,
travel expenses, professional fees, research and software expenses, insurance, and other costs associated with
administering and supporting those funds. Inasmuch as most of these fund expenses are borne by third-party
investors, they reduce the investors’ interests in the consolidated funds and have no impact on net income or loss
attributable to the Company.
Other Income (Loss)
Interest Expense
Interest expense primarily reflects the interest expense of the consolidated funds, as well as the interest
expense of Oaktree and its operating subsidiaries.
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest and dividend income consists of interest and dividend income earned on the investments held by
our consolidated funds, and interest income earned by Oaktree and its operating subsidiaries.
Net Realized Gain (Loss) on Consolidated Funds’ Investments
Net realized gain (loss) on consolidated funds’ investments consists of realized gains and losses arising
from dispositions of investments held by our consolidated funds.
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Consolidated Funds’ Investments
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments reflects both
unrealized gains and losses on investments held by our consolidated funds and the reversal upon disposition of
investments of unrealized gains and losses previously recognized for those investments.
Investment Income
Investment income represents our pro-rata share of income or loss from our investments, generally in our
capacity as general partner in our funds and as an investor in our CLOs and third-party managed funds and
companies. Investment income, as reflected in our consolidated statements of operations, excludes investment
income earned by us from our consolidated funds.
Other Income (Expense), Net
Other income (expense), net represents non-operating income or expense, including income related to
amounts received from a legacy Highstar fund for contractually reimbursable costs in connection with the Highstar
acquisition. The legacy Highstar fund stopped paying management fees in the fourth quarter of 2017. As a result,
we will no longer be receiving such income.
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For 2017, other income (expense), net included $145.1 million of income related to the remeasurement of
our tax receivable agreement liability in connection with the Tax Act and the $22.0 million make-whole premium
expense related to the early repayment of our $250.0 million 6.75% senior notes due 2019.
Income Taxes
Oaktree is a publicly traded partnership. Because it satisfies the qualifying income test, it is not required to
be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal and state income tax purposes. Instead, it is taxed as a partnership.
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc., which are two of our five Intermediate Holding Companies
and wholly-owned subsidiaries, are subject to U.S. federal and state income taxes. The remainder of Oaktree’s
income is generally not subject to corporate-level taxation.
Oaktree’s effective tax rate is dependent on many factors, including the mix of revenues and expenses
between our two corporate Intermediate Holding Companies that are subject to income tax and our three other
Intermediate Holding Companies that are not; consequently, the effective tax rate is subject to significant variation
from period to period. Oaktree’s non-U.S. income or loss before taxes is generally not significant in relation to total
pre-tax income or loss, and is generally more predictable because, unlike U.S. pre-tax income, it is not significantly
impacted by unrealized gains or losses. Non-U.S. tax expense typically represents a disproportionately large
percentage of total income tax expense because nearly all of our non-U.S. income or loss is subject to corporate-
level income tax, whereas a substantial portion of our U.S.-based income or loss is not subject to corporate-level
taxes. In addition, changes in the proportion of non-U.S. pre-tax income to total pre-tax income impact Oaktree’s
effective tax rate to the extent non-U.S. rates differ from the combined U.S. federal and state tax rate.
Income taxes are accounted for using the liability method of accounting. Under this method, deferred tax
assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of differences between the carrying
amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases using currently enacted tax rates. The effect on
deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period when the change is
enacted. Deferred tax assets would be reduced by a valuation allowance if it becomes more likely than not that
some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Net Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests represents the ownership interests that third parties hold
in entities that are consolidated in our financial statements. These interests fall into two categories:
• Net Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Funds. This category
represents the economic interests of the unaffiliated investors in the consolidated funds, as well as the
equity interests held by third-party investors in CLOs that had not yet priced as of the respective period
end. Those interests are primarily driven by the investment performance of the consolidated funds. In
comparison to net income, this measure excludes our operating results and other items solely
attributable to the Company; and
• Net Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries. This
category primarily represents the economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group owned by OCGH
(“OCGH non-controlling interest”), as well as the economic interest in certain consolidated subsidiaries
held by third parties. The OCGH non-controlling interest is determined at the Oaktree Operating Group
level based on the weighted average proportionate share of Oaktree Operating Group units held by the
OCGH unitholders. Inasmuch as the number of outstanding Oaktree Operating Group units
corresponds with the total number of outstanding Class A and OCGH units, changes in the economic
interest held by the OCGH unitholders are driven by our additional issuances of Class A and OCGH
units, as well as repurchases and forfeitures of, and exchanges between, Class A and OCGH units.
Certain of our expenses, such as income tax and related administrative expenses of Oaktree Capital
Group, LLC and its Intermediate Holding Companies, are solely attributable to the Class A unitholders.
Please see note 12 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report
for additional information on the economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group owned by OCGH.
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Non-GAAP Measures
Our business is comprised of one segment, our investment management business, which consists of the
investment management services that we provide to our clients. Management makes operating decisions and
assesses the performance of our business based on financial and operating metrics and data that are presented
without the consolidation of any funds. The data most important to management in assessing our performance are
adjusted net income, adjusted net income-OCG, distributable earnings, distributable earnings-OCG, fee-related
earnings and fee-related earnings-OCG. For a detailed reconciliation of the non-GAAP results of operations to our
consolidated statements of operations, please see “—Non-GAAP Results—Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP
Results” below.
We monitor certain operating metrics that are either common to the alternative asset management industry
or that we believe provide important data regarding our business. As described below, these operating metrics
include assets under management, management fee-generating assets under management, incentive-creating
assets under management, accrued incentives (fund level), incentives created (fund level) and uncalled capital
commitments.
In 2018, we expect approximately $20 million of aggregate growth in compensation and benefits and
general and administrative expenses related to our Infrastructure team that joined us as part of the Highstar
acquisition. This amount reflects existing expenses of the team that were previously paid for by a legacy Highstar
fund that stopped paying management fees in 2017. This increase in expenses does not represent an increase in
the overall costs of the infrastructure team, but rather reflects the fact that these expenses will no longer be
subsidized by the management fees previously paid for by the legacy Highstar fund.
Adjusted Net Income
We use adjusted net income (“ANI”) to help evaluate the financial performance of, and make resource
allocation and other operating decisions for, our investment management business. The components of revenues
(“adjusted revenues”) and expenses (“adjusted expenses”) used in the determination of ANI do not give effect to the
consolidation of the funds that we manage. Adjusted revenues include investment income (loss) that is classified in
other income (loss) in the GAAP statements of operations. Adjusted revenues and expenses also reflect Oaktree’s
proportionate economic interest in Highstar, whereby amounts received for contractually reimbursable costs are
classified for ANI as expenses and under GAAP as other income. In addition, ANI excludes the effect of (a) non-
cash equity-based compensation expense related to unit grants made before our initial public offering,
(b) acquisition-related items including amortization of intangibles and changes in the contingent consideration
liability, (c) income taxes, (d) other income or expenses applicable to OCG or its Intermediate Holding Companies,
and (e) the adjustment for non-controlling interests. Moreover, gains and losses resulting from foreign-currency
transactions and hedging activities under GAAP are recognized as general and administrative expense whether
realized or unrealized in the current period, but for ANI, unrealized gains and losses from foreign-currency hedging
activities are deferred until realized, at which time they are included in the same revenue or expense line item as
the underlying exposure that was hedged. Additionally, for ANI, foreign-currency transaction gains and losses are
included in other income (expense), net. Incentive income and incentive income compensation expense are
included in ANI when the underlying fund distributions are known or knowable as of the respective quarter end,
which may be later than the time at which the same revenue or expense is included in the GAAP statements of
operations, for which the revenue standard is fixed or determinable and the expense standard is probable and
reasonably estimable. CLO investments are carried at fair value for GAAP reporting, whereas for ANI they are
carried at amortized cost, subject to any impairment charges. Investment income on CLO investments is
recognized in ANI when cash distributions are received. Cash distributions are allocated between income and
return of capital based on the effective yield method. ANI is calculated at the Operating Group level.
Beginning with the second quarter of 2017, the definition of ANI was modified with respect to third-party
placement costs associated with closed-end funds and liability-classified EVUs to conform to the GAAP treatment.
Under GAAP, placement costs are expensed as incurred and liability-classified EVUs are remeasured as of each
reporting date. Previously for ANI, placement costs were capitalized and amortized in proportion to the associated
management fee stream, and liability-classified EVUs were treated as equity-classified awards. All prior periods
have been recast for these changes.
Among other factors, our accounting policy for recognizing incentive income and the inclusion of non-cash
equity-based compensation expense related to unit grants made after our initial public offering will likely make our
calculation of ANI not directly comparable to economic net income or other similarly named measures utilized by
other asset managers.
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We calculate adjusted net income-OCG, or adjusted net income per Class A unit, a non-GAAP performance
measure, to provide Class A unitholders with a measure that shows the portion of ANI attributable to their
ownership. Adjusted net income-OCG represents ANI including the effect of (a) the OCGH non-controlling interest,
(b) other income or expenses, such as income tax expense, applicable to OCG or its Intermediate Holding
Companies and (c) any Operating Group income taxes attributable to OCG. Two of our Intermediate Holding
Companies incur federal and state income taxes for their shares of Operating Group income. Generally, those two
corporate entities hold an interest in the Operating Group’s management fee-generating assets and a small portion
of its incentive and investment income-generating assets. As a result, historically our fee-related earnings and
investment income arising from our one-fifth ownership stake in DoubleLine Capital LP and its affiliates (collectively,
“DoubleLine”) generally have been subject to corporate-level taxation, and most of our incentive income and other
investment income generally has not been subject to corporate-level taxation. Thus, the blended effective income
tax rate has generally tended to be higher to the extent that fee-related earnings and DoubleLine-related investment
income represented a larger proportion of our ANI. Other factors may also affect income tax expense and the
effective income tax rate, and there can be no assurance that this historical relationship will continue going forward.
Distributable Earnings
We use distributable earnings to help evaluate the financial performance of, and make resource allocation
and other operating decisions for, our business. Distributable earnings is a non-GAAP performance measure
derived from ANI that we use to measure our earnings at the Operating Group level without the effects of the
consolidated funds for the purpose of, among other things, assisting in the determination of equity distributions from
the Operating Group. However, the declaration, payment and determination of the amount of equity distributions, if
any, is at the sole discretion of our board of directors, which may change our distribution policy at any time.
Distributable earnings differs from ANI in that it excludes investment income or loss and includes the receipt
of investment income or loss from distributions by our investments in funds and companies. Additionally, any
impairment charges on our CLO investments included in ANI are, for distributable earnings purposes, amortized
over the remaining investment period of the respective CLO to align with the timing of expected cash flows. In
addition, distributable earnings differs from ANI in that make-whole premium charges related to the repayment of
debt are included in ANI, but for distributable earnings purposes are amortized through the original maturity date of
the repaid debt. Finally, distributable earnings differs from ANI in that it is net of Operating Group income taxes and
excludes non-cash equity-based compensation expense.
Investment income or loss, which for equity-method investments represents our pro-rata share of income or
loss, generally in our capacity as general partner in our funds and as an investor in our CLOs and third-party
managed funds and companies, is largely non-cash in nature. By excluding investment income or loss, which is not
directly available to fund our operations or make equity distributions, and including the portion of distributions from
Oaktree and non-Oaktree funds to us that represents the income or loss component of the distributions and not a
return of our capital contributions, as well as distributions from our investments in companies, distributable earnings
aids us in measuring amounts that are actually available to meet our obligations under the tax receivable
agreement and our liabilities for expenses incurred at OCG and the Intermediate Holding Companies, as well as for
distributions to Class A and OCGH unitholders.
Distributable earnings-OCG, or distributable earnings per Class A unit, is a non-GAAP performance
measure calculated to provide Class A unitholders with a measure that shows the portion of distributable earnings
attributable to their ownership. Distributable earnings-OCG represents distributable earnings, including the effect of
(a) the OCGH non-controlling interest, (b) expenses, such as current income tax expense, applicable to OCG or its
Intermediate Holding Companies and (c) amounts payable under the tax receivable agreement. The income tax
expense included in distributable earnings-OCG represents the implied current provision for income taxes
calculated using an approach similar to that which is used in calculating the income tax provision for adjusted net
income-OCG.
Fee-related Earnings
Fee-related earnings is a non-GAAP performance measure that we use to monitor the baseline earnings of
our business. Fee-related earnings is comprised of management fees less operating expenses other than incentive
income compensation expense and non-cash equity-based compensation expense. Fee-related earnings is
considered baseline because it excludes all non-management fee revenue sources (such as earnings from our
minority equity interest in DoubleLine) and applies all cash compensation and benefits other than incentive income
compensation expense, as well as all general and administrative expenses, to management fees, even though
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those expenses also support the generation of incentive and investment income. Fee-related earnings is presented
before income taxes.
Fee-related earnings-OCG, or fee-related earnings per Class A unit, is a non-GAAP performance measure
calculated to provide Class A unitholders with a measure that shows the portion of fee-related earnings attributable
to their ownership. Fee-related earnings-OCG represents fee-related earnings including the effect of (a) the OCGH
non-controlling interest, (b) other income or expenses, such as income tax expense, applicable to OCG or its
Intermediate Holding Companies and (c) any Operating Group income taxes attributable to OCG. Fee-related
earnings-OCG income taxes are calculated excluding any incentive income or investment income (loss).
Assets Under Management
AUM generally refers to the assets we manage and equals the NAV of the assets we manage, the leverage
on which management fees are charged and the undrawn capital that we are entitled to call from investors in our
funds pursuant to their capital commitments. For our CLOs, AUM represents the aggregate par value of collateral
assets and principal cash, and for our publicly-traded BDCs, gross assets (including assets acquired with leverage),
net of cash. Our AUM includes amounts for which we charge no management fees. Our definition of AUM is not
based on any definition contained in our operating agreement or the agreements governing the funds that we
manage. Our calculation of AUM and the two AUM-related metrics below may not be directly comparable to the
AUM metrics of other investment managers.
• Management Fee-generating Assets Under Management. Management fee-generating AUM is a
forward-looking metric and reflects the beginning AUM on which we will earn management fees in the
following quarter. Our closed-end funds typically pay management fees based on committed capital,
drawn capital or cost basis during the investment period, without regard to changes in NAV, and during
the liquidation period on the lesser of (a) total funded capital or (b) the cost basis of assets remaining in
the fund. The annual management fee rate generally remains unchanged from the investment period
through the liquidation period. Our open-end and evergreen funds typically pay management fees
based on their NAV, our CLOs pay management fees based on the aggregate par value of collateral
assets and principal cash, as defined in the applicable CLO indentures, and our publicly-traded BDCs
pay management fees based on gross assets (including assets acquired with leverage), net of cash.
•
Incentive-creating Assets Under Management. Incentive-creating AUM refers to the AUM that may
eventually produce incentive income. It generally represents the NAV of our funds for which we are
entitled to receive an incentive allocation, excluding CLOs and investments made by us and our
employees and directors (which are not subject to an incentive allocation), and gross assets (including
assets acquired with leverage), net of cash, for our publicly-traded BDCs. All funds for which we are
entitled to receive an incentive allocation are included in incentive-creating AUM, regardless of whether
or not they are currently above their preferred return or high-water mark and therefore generating
incentives. Incentive-creating AUM does not include undrawn capital commitments.
Accrued Incentives (Fund Level) and Incentives Created (Fund Level)
Our funds record as accrued incentives the incentive income that would be paid to us if the funds were
liquidated at their reported values as of the date of the financial statements. Incentives created (fund level) refers to
the gross amount of potential incentives generated by the funds during the period. We refer to the amount of
accrued incentives recognized as revenue by us as incentive income. Amounts recognized by us as incentive
income are no longer included in accrued incentives (fund level), the term we use for remaining fund-level accruals.
The amount of incentives created may fluctuate substantially as a result of changes in the fair value of the
underlying investments of the fund, as well as incentives created in excess of our typical 20% share due to catch-up
allocations for applicable closed-end funds. Generally speaking, while in the catch-up layer, approximately 80% of
any increase or decrease, respectively, in the fund’s NAV results in a commensurate amount of positive or negative
incentives created (fund level).
The same performance and market risks inherent in incentives created (fund level) affect the ability to
ultimately realize accrued incentives (fund level). One consequence of the accounting method we follow for
incentives created (fund level) is that accrued incentives (fund level) is an off-balance sheet metric, rather than
being an on-balance sheet receivable that could require reduction if fund performance suffers. We track accrued
incentives (fund level) because it provides an indication of potential future value, though the timing and ultimate
realization of that value are uncertain.
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Incentives created (fund level), incentive income and accrued incentives (fund level) are presented gross,
without deduction for direct compensation expense that is owed to our investment professionals associated with the
particular fund when we earn the incentive income. We call that charge “incentive income compensation expense.”
Incentive income compensation expense varies by the investment strategy and vintage of the particular fund,
among many other factors.
Incentives created (fund level) often reflects investments measured at fair value and therefore is subject to
risk of substantial fluctuation by the time the underlying investments are liquidated. We earn the incentive income,
if any, that the fund is then obligated to pay us with respect to our incentive interest (generally 20%) in the profits of
our unaffiliated investors, subject to an annual preferred return of typically 8%. Although GAAP currently allows the
equivalent of incentives created (fund level) to be recognized as revenue by us under Method 2, we follow the
Method 1 approach offered by GAAP. Our use of Method 1 reduces by a substantial degree the possibility that
revenue recognized by us would be reversed in a subsequent period. For purposes of ANI and distributable
earnings, we recognize incentive income when the underlying fund distributions are known or knowable as of the
respective quarter end, as opposed to the fixed or determinable standard of Method 1. We track incentives created
(fund level) because it provides an indication of the value for us currently being created by our investment activities
and facilitates comparability with those companies in our industry that utilize the alternative accrual-based Method 2
for recognizing incentive income in their financial statements.
Uncalled Capital Commitments
Uncalled capital commitments represent undrawn capital commitments by partners (including Oaktree as
general partner) of our closed-end funds through their investment periods and certain evergreen funds. If a closed-
end fund distributes capital during its investment period, that capital is typically subject to possible recall, in which
case it is included in uncalled capital commitments.
Invested Capital
Invested capital reflects deployed capital, whether involving drawn or recycled equity capital, or borrowings
from fund-level credit facilities. This metric is used in connection with incentive-creating closed-end funds and
certain evergreen funds.
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GAAP Consolidated Results of Operations
The following table sets forth our audited consolidated statements of operations:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Revenues:
Management fees ..................................................................................... $
Incentive income ......................................................................................
Total revenues ...................................................................................
726,414
$
774,587
$
195,308
743,353
351,159
1,469,767
1,125,746
6,597
201,905
Expenses:
Compensation and benefits ......................................................................
Equity-based compensation .....................................................................
Incentive income compensation ...............................................................
Total compensation and benefits expense .........................................
General and administrative .......................................................................
Depreciation and amortization ..................................................................
Consolidated fund expenses ....................................................................
Total expenses ..................................................................................
(392,827)
(59,337)
(416,481)
(868,645)
(130,892)
(15,776)
(10,030)
(389,892)
(63,724)
(168,276)
(621,892)
(145,430)
(16,222)
(5,792)
(1,025,343)
(789,336)
(416,907)
(54,381)
(160,831)
(632,119)
(110,677)
(14,022)
(184,090)
(940,908)
Other income (loss):
Interest expense .......................................................................................
Interest and dividend income ....................................................................
Net realized gain (loss) on consolidated funds’ investments .....................
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated
funds’ investments ................................................................................
Investment income ...................................................................................
Other income (expense), net ....................................................................
Total other income (loss) ...................................................................
Income (loss) before income taxes ..................................................................
Income taxes ............................................................................................
Net income (loss)
............................................................................................
Less:
Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated
funds .....................................................................................................
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated
(169,888)
(120,610)
(216,799)
215,119
20,400
55,061
201,289
138,519
460,500
904,924
(215,442)
689,482
165,066
27,593
1,958,802
1,177,150
(12,453)
(3,767,527)
199,126
13,490
272,212
608,622
(42,519)
566,103
51,958
20,006
(776,410)
(1,515,413)
(17,549)
(1,532,962)
(33,204)
(22,921)
1,809,683
subsidiaries ...........................................................................................
(424,784)
(348,477)
(205,372)
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ................................... $
231,494
$
194,705
$
71,349
Year Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2016
Revenues
Management Fees
Management fees decreased $48.2 million, or 6.2%, to $726.4 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $774.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The decrease reflected an aggregate decline of
$79.6 million primarily attributable to unconsolidated closed-end funds in liquidation, partially offset by an aggregate
increase of $31.4 million principally from the start of the investment period for Oaktree European Principal Fund IV
(“EPF IV”), the BDC acquisition, market-value gains from open-end funds and closed-end funds that pay
management fees based on drawn capital, NAV or cost basis.
Incentive Income
Incentive income increased $392.2 million, or 111.7%, to $743.4 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $351.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was primarily attributable to $427.8
million of incentive income from Oaktree Principal Opportunities Fund IV (“POF IV”), which started paying incentive
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income (other than tax-related) in the second quarter of 2017. Tax-related incentive income represented $98.3
million and $71.4 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Expenses
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits expense increased $2.9 million, or 0.7%, to $392.8 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $389.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.
Equity-based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense decreased $4.4 million, or 6.9%, to $59.3 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $63.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The decrease primarily reflected
the impact of unit grants made before our initial public offering that were fully amortized.
Incentive Income Compensation
Incentive income compensation expense increased $248.2 million, or 147.5%, to $416.5 million for the year
ended December 31, 2017, from $168.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting the
growth in incentive income.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense decreased $14.5 million, or 10.0%, to $130.9 million for the year
ended December 31, 2017, from $145.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Excluding the impact of
foreign currency-related items, which stemmed primarily from foreign-currency hedges used to economically hedge
our non-U.S. dollar denominated revenues and expenses, general and administrative expense decreased $2.9
million, or 2.2%, to $130.9 million from $133.8 million, primarily reflecting lower placement costs, partially offset by
higher legal fees.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $0.4 million, or 2.5%, to $15.8 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $16.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting the final
amortization of certain leasehold improvements in the first quarter of 2017, largely offset by amortization of
intangibles related to the BDC acquisition.
Consolidated Fund Expenses
Consolidated fund expenses increased $4.2 million, or 72.4%, to $10.0 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $5.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase reflected higher
professional fees and other costs incurred by our consolidated funds.
Other Income (Loss)
Interest Expense
Interest expense increased $49.3 million, or 40.9%, to $169.9 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $120.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was attributable to our
consolidated funds.
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest and dividend income increased $50.0 million, or 30.3%, to $215.1 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $165.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was primarily
attributable to our consolidated funds.
Net Realized Gain (Loss) on Consolidated Funds’ Investments
Net realized gain (loss) on consolidated funds’ investments decreased $7.2 million, or 26.1%, to a net gain
of $20.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from a net gain of $27.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016. The decrease reflected our consolidated funds’ performance in each period.
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Consolidated Funds’ Investments
The net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments increased
$67.6 million, to net appreciation of $55.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from net depreciation of
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$12.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Excluding the impact of the reversal of net realized gain (loss)
on consolidated funds’ investments, the net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’
investments increased $60.4 million, to a net gain of $75.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from a
net gain of $15.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase reflected our consolidated funds’
performance in each period.
Investment Income
Investment income increased $2.2 million, or 1.1%, to $201.3 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $199.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. DoubleLine accounted for investment income of
$71.5 million and $66.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, of which
performance fees accounted for $4.2 million and $4.7 million, respectively.
Other Income, Net
Other income, net increased $125.0 million, to $138.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from
$13.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase reflected $145.1 million of income in 2017
related to the Tax Act, partially offset by the $22.0 million make-whole premium expense related to the early
repayment of our $250.0 million 6.75% senior notes due 2019.
Income Taxes
Income taxes increased $172.9 million, to $215.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from
$42.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting the $178.2 million in additional tax expense
related to the Tax Act. Excluding the impact of the Tax Act, income taxes decreased $5.3 million, or 12.5%, to $37.2
million for 2017 from $42.5 million for 2016, primarily reflecting a lower effective tax rate for 2017, partially offset by
higher pre-tax income attributable to Class A unitholders. The effective tax rates applicable to Class A unitholders
for 2017 and 2016 were 47% and 17%, respectively. Excluding the impact of the Tax Act, the effective tax rate
applicable to Class A unitholders for 2017 was 11%. We generally expect variability in tax rates between periods,
because the effective tax rate is a function of the mix of income and other factors, each of which can have a
material impact on the particular period’s income tax expense and may vary significantly within or between years.
Please see “—Understanding Our Results—Consolidation of Oaktree Funds.”
Net (Income) Loss Attributable to Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Funds
Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated funds increased $10.3 million, or
45.0%, to income of $33.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from income of $22.9 million for the year
ended December 31, 2016. The increase primarily reflected our consolidated funds’ performance attributable to
third-party investors in each period. These effects are described in more detail under “—Other Income (Loss)”
above.
Net Income Attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC increased $36.8 million, or 18.9%, to $231.5 million
for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $194.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase
was primarily attributable to higher operating profits driven by higher net incentive income, partially offset by the
impact of the Tax Act and make-whole premium expense in 2017.
Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2015
Revenues
Management Fees
Management fees increased $579.3 million, to $774.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from
$195.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase reflected the deconsolidation of substantially
all of Oaktree’s investment funds effective the first quarter of 2016.
Incentive Income
Incentive income increased $344.6 million, to $351.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from
$6.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting the impact of deconsolidation.
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Expenses
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits expense decreased $27.0 million, or 6.5%, to $389.9 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $416.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting an overall shift
in compensation mix from cash to equity.
Equity-based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense increased $9.3 million, or 17.1%, to $63.7 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $54.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase reflected non-cash
amortization expense associated with vesting of Class A and OCGH unit grants made to employees and directors
subsequent to our initial public offering, coupled with an overall shift in compensation mix from cash to equity.
Incentive Income Compensation
Incentive income compensation expense increased $7.5 million, or 4.7%, to $168.3 million for the year
ended December 31, 2016, from $160.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The percentage increase
in incentive income compensation expense was smaller than the corresponding increase of 34.6% in non-GAAP
incentive income, as a result of timing differences between the recognition of non-GAAP incentive income and
incentive income compensation expense, as well as differences in the applicable funds’ compensation percentages.
Additionally, 2015 included catch-up tax amounts related to incentive interests previously awarded to certain
investment professionals.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense increased $34.7 million, or 31.3%, to $145.4 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $110.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Excluding the impact of foreign
currency-related items, which stemmed primarily from foreign-currency hedges used to economically hedge our
non-U.S. dollar denominated revenues and expenses, general and administrative expense increased $1.0 million,
or 0.8%, to $133.8 million from $132.8 million.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $2.2 million, or 15.7%, to $16.2 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $14.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting leasehold
improvements associated with office space expansion.
Consolidated Fund Expenses
Consolidated fund expenses decreased $178.3 million, or 96.8%, to $5.8 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $184.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting the impact of
deconsolidation.
Other Income (Loss)
Interest Expense
Interest expense decreased $96.2 million, or 44.4%, to $120.6 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, from $216.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting the impact of deconsolidation.
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest and dividend income decreased $1,793.7 million, or 91.6%, to $165.1 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $1,958.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting the impact of
deconsolidation.
Net Realized Gain (Loss) on Consolidated Funds’ Investments
Net realized gain (loss) on consolidated funds’ investments decreased $1,149.6 million, to a net gain of
$27.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $1,177.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015,
reflecting our funds’ performance, as well as the impact of deconsolidation.
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Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Consolidated Funds’ Investments
The net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments decreased
$3,755.0 million, to a net loss of $12.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $3,767.5 million for the
year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting the impact of deconsolidation.
Investment Income
Investment income increased $147.1 million, to $199.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from
$52.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting the impact of deconsolidation. DoubleLine
accounted for investment income of $66.1 million and $55.0 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively, of which
performance fees accounted for $4.7 million and $4.3 million, respectively.
Other Income, Net
Other income, net decreased $6.5 million, or 32.5%, to $13.5 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, from $20.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The decrease reflected lower income received for
contractually reimbursable costs associated with the Highstar acquisition and higher net losses associated with
non-operating corporate activities.
Income Taxes
Income taxes increased $25.0 million, to $42.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $17.5
million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting higher pre-tax income attributable to Class A
unitholders. The effective tax rate applicable to Class A unitholders for both 2016 and 2015 was 17%. We
generally expect variability in tax rates between periods, because the effective tax rate is a function of the mix of
income and other factors, each of which can have a material impact on the particular period’s income tax expense
and may vary significantly within or between years. Please see “—Understanding Our Results—Consolidation of
Oaktree Funds.”
Net (Income) Loss Attributable to Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Funds
Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated funds increased $1,832.6 million,
to income of $22.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from a loss of $1,809.7 million for the year ended
December 31, 2015. The increase was primarily driven by our funds’ performance in each period, as well as the
impact of deconsolidation. These effects are described in more detail under “—Other Income (Loss)” above.
Net Income Attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC increased $123.4 million, to $194.7 million for the
year ended December 31, 2016, from $71.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase was
primarily attributable to higher operating profits, as well as a larger allocation of income to OCG resulting from an
increase in the average number of Class A units outstanding.
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Non-GAAP Financial Data
Oaktree presents certain revenues and financial measures, including measures that are calculated and
presented on a basis other than GAAP (“non-GAAP”) such as adjusted revenues, adjusted net income, adjusted net
income per Class A unit, distributable earnings revenues, distributable earnings, distributable earnings per Class A
unit, fee-related earnings revenues, fee-related earnings and fee-related earnings per Class A unit. These
measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, net income, net income per
Class A unit or other financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP.
The following table presents non-GAAP financial data:
As of or for the Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands, except per unit data or as otherwise
indicated)
Non-GAAP Results: (1)
Adjusted revenues ................................................................................................... $ 1,727,710
Adjusted net income ................................................................................................
701,100
Adjusted net income-OCG .......................................................................................
221,701
$ 1,362,202
$ 1,065,864
572,374
190,724
308,315
78,671
Distributable earnings revenues ..............................................................................
Distributable earnings ..............................................................................................
Distributable earnings-OCG .....................................................................................
Fee-related earnings revenues ................................................................................
Fee-related earnings ................................................................................................
Fee-related earnings-OCG ......................................................................................
1,674,948
1,270,915
1,166,974
716,307
266,983
747,261
223,857
54,496
526,550
179,432
785,673
255,863
88,947
443,957
118,105
753,805
214,943
65,027
Per Class A Unit:
Adjusted net income ................................................................................................ $
Distributable earnings ..............................................................................................
Fee-related earnings ................................................................................................
$
3.46
4.16
0.85
$
3.05
2.87
1.42
1.59
2.39
1.32
Weighted average number of Operating Group units outstanding ............................
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding ..........................................
155,791
64,148
154,687
62,565
153,751
49,324
Operating Metrics:
Assets under management (in millions):
Assets under management ............................................................................... $
Management fee-generating assets under management ..................................
Incentive-creating assets under management ..................................................
Uncalled capital commitments ..........................................................................
100,228
$
100,504
$
80,585
32,705
20,470
79,767
33,627
20,755
97,359
78,897
31,923
21,650
Accrued incentives (fund level):
Incentives created (fund level) ..........................................................................
637,466
784,032
(100,384)
Incentives created (fund level), net of associated incentive income
compensation expense .................................................................................
302,706
320,472
(66,399)
Accrued incentives (fund level) .........................................................................
1,920,339
2,014,097
1,585,217
Accrued incentives (fund level), net of associated incentive income
compensation expense .................................................................................
920,852
946,542
811,540
(1) Beginning with the second quarter of 2017, the definition of adjusted net income was modified with respect to third-party
placement costs associated with closed-end funds and liability-classified EVUs to conform to the GAAP treatment. Under
GAAP, placement costs are expensed as incurred and liability-classified EVUs are remeasured as of each reporting date.
Previously for adjusted net income, placement costs were capitalized and amortized in proportion to the associated
management fee stream, and liability-classified EVUs were treated as equity-classified awards. All prior periods have been
recast for these changes.
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Operating Metrics
We monitor certain operating metrics that are either common to the alternative asset management industry
or that we believe provide important data regarding our business. These operating metrics include AUM,
management fee-generating AUM, incentive-creating AUM, incentives created (fund level), accrued incentives (fund
level) and uncalled capital commitments.
Assets Under Management
Assets Under Management:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
Closed-end funds ......................................................................................................... $
Open-end funds ............................................................................................................
Evergreen funds ...........................................................................................................
56,871
$
60,104
$
59,430
35,441
7,916
35,105
5,295
33,202
4,727
Total
............................................................................................................................. $ 100,228
$ 100,504
$
97,359
Change in Assets Under Management:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
Beginning balance ........................................................................................................ $ 100,504
Closed-end funds:
$
97,359
$
90,831
Capital commitments/other (1) ................................................................................
Distributions for a realization event/other (2) ...........................................................
Change in uncalled capital commitments for funds entering or in liquidation (3) .....
Foreign-currency translation ..................................................................................
Change in market value (4) .....................................................................................
Change in applicable leverage ..............................................................................
Open-end funds:
Contributions .........................................................................................................
Redemptions .........................................................................................................
Foreign-currency translation ..................................................................................
Change in market value (4) .....................................................................................
Evergreen funds:
Contributions or new capital commitments (5) ........................................................
Acquisition (BDCs)
................................................................................................
Redemptions or distributions (6) .............................................................................
Foreign-currency translation ..................................................................................
Change in market value (4) .....................................................................................
2,472
(10,633)
18
993
3,544
373
5,739
(8,741)
800
2,538
733
2,110
(731)
(1)
510
5,864
(7,747)
(1,084)
(176)
3,754
63
5,444
(7,048)
(130)
3,637
259
—
(381)
(2)
692
17,868
(5,225)
(767)
(706)
(522)
579
4,919
(7,260)
(422)
(1,487)
349
—
(406)
—
(392)
Ending balance ............................................................................................................ $ 100,228
$ 100,504
$
97,359
(1) These amounts include capital commitments, as well as the aggregate par value of collateral assets and principal cash
related to new CLO formations.
(2) These amounts include distributions for a realization event, tax-related distributions, reductions in the par value of collateral
assets and principal cash resulting from the repayment of debt as return of principal by CLOs, and recallable distributions
at the end of the investment period.
(3) The change in uncalled capital commitments reflects declines attributable to funds entering their liquidation periods, as well
as capital contributions to funds in their liquidation periods for deferred purchase obligations or other reasons.
(4) The change in market value reflects the change in NAV of our funds, less management fees and other fund expenses, as
well as changes in the aggregate par value of collateral assets and principal cash held by CLOs.
(5) These amounts include contributions and capital commitments, and for our publicly-traded BDCs, issuances of equity or
debt capital.
(6) These amounts include redemptions and distributions, and for our publicly-traded BDCs, dividends, repurchases of equity
capital or repayment of debt.
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Management Fee-generating Assets Under Management
Management Fee-generating Assets Under Management:
Closed-end funds:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
Senior Loans ......................................................................................................... $
Other closed-end funds .........................................................................................
Open-end funds ............................................................................................................
Evergreen funds ...........................................................................................................
8,066
$
7,504
$
6,580
30,779
35,188
6,552
32,990
35,034
4,239
35,709
33,135
3,473
Total
............................................................................................................................. $
80,585
$
79,767
$
78,897
Change in Management Fee-generating Assets Under Management:
Beginning balance ........................................................................................................ $
Closed-end funds:
Capital commitments to funds that pay fees based on committed capital/other (1) .
Capital drawn by funds that pay fees based on drawn capital, NAV or cost basis..
Change attributable to funds in liquidation (2) .........................................................
Change in uncalled capital commitments for funds entering or in liquidation that
pay fees based on committed capital (3) .............................................................
Distributions by funds that pay fees based on NAV/other (4) ...................................
Foreign-currency translation ..................................................................................
Change in market value (5) .....................................................................................
Change in applicable leverage ..............................................................................
Open-end funds:
Contributions .........................................................................................................
Redemptions .........................................................................................................
Foreign-currency translation ..................................................................................
Change in market value ........................................................................................
Evergreen funds:
Contributions or capital drawn by funds that pay fees based on drawn capital or
...............................................................................................................
NAV (6)
Acquisition (BDCs)
................................................................................................
Redemptions or distributions (7) .............................................................................
Change in market value ........................................................................................
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
79,767
$
78,897
$
78,079
969
1,663
2,125
1,390
7,354
1,175
(4,760)
(4,162)
(2,812)
—
(926)
840
217
348
5,567
(8,734)
800
2,521
520
2,110
(772)
455
(881)
(636)
(242)
427
184
5,395
(7,024)
(130)
3,658
533
—
(413)
646
(409)
(381)
(443)
(294)
827
4,903
(7,243)
(421)
(1,487)
760
—
(322)
(389)
Ending balance ............................................................................................................ $
80,585
$
79,767
$
78,897
(1) These amounts include capital commitments to funds that pay fees based on committed capital, as well as the aggregate
par value of collateral assets and principal cash related to new CLO formations.
(2) These amounts include the change for funds that pay fees based on the lesser of funded capital or cost basis during the
liquidation period, as well as recallable distributions at the end of the investment period. For most closed-end funds,
management fees are charged during the liquidation period on the lesser of (a) total funded capital or (b) the cost basis of
assets remaining in the fund, with the cost basis of assets generally calculated by excluding cash balances. Thus,
changes in fee basis during the liquidation period are not dependent on distributions made from the fund; rather, they are
tied to the cost basis of the fund’s investments, which typically declines as the fund sells assets.
(3) The change in uncalled capital commitments reflects declines attributable to funds entering their liquidation periods, as well
as capital contributions to funds in their liquidation periods for deferred purchase obligations or other reasons.
(4) These amounts include distributions by funds that pay fees based on NAV, as well as reductions in the par value of
collateral assets and principal cash resulting from the repayment of debt as return of principal by CLOs.
(5) The change in market value reflects certain funds that pay management fees based on NAV and leverage, as applicable,
as well as changes in the aggregate par value of collateral assets and principal cash held by CLOs.
93
(6) These amounts include contributions and capital commitments, and for our publicly-traded BDCs, issuances of equity or
debt capital.
(7) These amounts include redemptions and distributions, and for our publicly-traded BDCs, dividends, repurchases of equity
capital or repayment of debt.
A reconciliation of AUM to management fee-generating AUM is set forth below:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
Reconciliation of Assets Under Management to Management Fee-generating
Assets Under Management:
Assets under management ........................................................................................... $ 100,228
$ 100,504
$
97,359
Difference between assets under management and committed capital or the
lesser of funded capital or cost basis for applicable closed-end funds (1)............
(2,331)
(4,183)
(2,958)
Undrawn capital commitments to closed-end funds that have not yet
commenced their investment periods .................................................................
(8,675)
(10,367)
(8,215)
Undrawn capital commitments to funds for which management fees are based
on drawn capital, NAV or cost basis ...................................................................
Oaktree’s general partner investments in management fee-generating funds .......
Funds that are no longer paying management fees and co-investments that pay
no management fees (2) .....................................................................................
(4,037)
(1,937)
(3,109)
(1,822)
(4,754)
(1,357)
(2,663)
(1,256)
(1,178)
Management fee-generating assets under management .............................................. $
80,585
$
79,767
$
78,897
(1) This difference is not applicable to closed-end funds that pay management fees based on NAV or leverage.
(2) This includes certain accounts that pay administrative fees intended to offset Oaktree’s costs related to the accounts.
The period-end weighted average annual management fee rates applicable to the respective management
fee-generating AUM balances above are set forth below.
As of December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Weighted Average Annual Management Fee Rates:
Closed-end funds:
Senior Loans .........................................................................................................
Other closed-end funds .........................................................................................
Open-end funds ............................................................................................................
Evergreen funds (1) .......................................................................................................
Overall
..........................................................................................................................
0.50%
0.50%
0.50%
1.49
0.46
1.22
0.92
1.50
0.46
1.22
0.93
1.52
0.48
1.43
0.99
(1) Fee rates reflect the applicable asset-based management fee rates, exclusive of quarterly incentive fees on investment
income that are included in management fees.
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Incentive-creating Assets Under Management
Incentive-creating AUM is set forth below. As of December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, the portion of
incentive-creating AUM generating incentives at the fund level was $21.4 billion, $21.2 billion and $17.5 billion,
respectively. Incentive-creating AUM does not include undrawn capital commitments.
As of December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
Incentive-creating Assets Under Management:
Closed-end funds ......................................................................................................... $
Evergreen funds ...........................................................................................................
27,322
$
30,292
$
30,100
5,383
3,335
1,823
Total
............................................................................................................................. $
32,705
$
33,627
$
31,923
Year Ended December 31, 2017
AUM decreased $0.3 billion, or 0.3%, to $100.2 billion as of December 31, 2017, from $100.5 billion as of
December 31, 2016. The decrease primarily reflected $10.6 billion of distributions to closed-end fund investors and
$3.0 billion of net outflows from open-end funds, partially offset by $6.6 billion in market-value gains, $2.8 billion of
capital commitments and fee-generating leverage to closed-end funds, $2.1 billion from the BDC acquisition, and
$1.8 billion in favorable foreign-currency translation. Commitments to closed-end funds included $1.1 billion for our
Real Estate Debt strategy, $0.5 billion for Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb and $0.5 billion for our European Private
Debt strategy. Distributions to closed-end fund investors included $5.0 billion from Distressed Debt funds, $3.1
billion from Control Investing funds and $1.3 billion from Real Estate funds.
Management fee-generating AUM, a forward-looking metric, increased $0.8 billion, or 1.0%, to $80.6 billion
as of December 31, 2017, from $79.8 billion as of December 31, 2016. The increase primarily reflected $3.2 billion
in market-value gains, $2.1 billion from the BDC acquisition, $1.7 billion from capital drawn by closed-end funds that
pay fees based on drawn capital, NAV or cost basis, $1.6 billion of favorable foreign-currency translation, and an
aggregate $1.3 billion increase from the start of the investment period for EPF IV in July 2017 and fee-generating
leverage to closed-end funds. These increases were partially offset by $4.8 billion attributable to closed-end funds
in liquidation, $3.2 billion of net outflows from open-end funds and $0.9 billion of distributions by closed-end funds
that pay fees based on NAV.
Incentive-creating AUM decreased $0.9 billion, or 2.7%, to $32.7 billion as of December 31, 2017, from
$33.6 billion as of December 31, 2016. The decrease reflected an aggregate decline of $11.2 billion primarily
attributable to distributions by closed-end funds, partially offset by an aggregate $8.2 billion in drawdowns or
contributions by closed-end and evergreen funds and market-value gains, and $2.1 billion from the BDC acquisition.
Year Ended December 31, 2016
AUM increased $3.1 billion, or 3.2%, to $100.5 billion as of December 31, 2016, from $97.4 billion as of
December 31, 2015. The increase primarily reflected $8.1 billion in market-value gains and $5.9 billion of capital
inflows for closed-end funds, partially offset by $7.7 billion of distributions to closed-end fund investors, $1.6 billion
of net outflows from open-end funds and $1.1 billion of uncalled capital commitments for closed-end funds that have
entered liquidation.
Management fee-generating AUM, a forward-looking metric, increased $0.9 billion, or 1.1%, to $79.8 billion
as of December 31, 2016, from $78.9 billion as of December 31, 2015. The increase primarily reflected $4.7 billion
in market-value gains, $2.1 billion of capital inflows to closed-end funds and $1.4 billion of drawdowns by closed-
end funds for which management fees are based on drawn capital, NAV or cost basis. These increases were
largely offset by $5.0 billion attributable to closed-end funds in liquidation and $1.6 billion of net outflows from open-
end funds.
Incentive-creating AUM increased $1.7 billion, or 5.3%, to $33.6 billion as of December 31, 2016, from
$31.9 billion as of December 31, 2015. The increase reflected an aggregate $8.2 billion in drawdowns or
contributions by closed-end and evergreen funds and market-value gains, partially offset by an aggregate $6.5
billion decline primarily attributable to distributions by closed-end funds.
95
Year Ended December 31, 2015
AUM increased $6.6 billion, or 7.3%, to $97.4 billion as of December 31, 2015, from $90.8 billion as of
December 31, 2014. The increase primarily reflected $18.4 billion of aggregate capital inflows and fee-generating
leverage for closed-end funds, partially offset by $5.2 billion of distributions to closed-end fund investors, $2.4 billion
in market-value declines, $2.3 billion of net outflows from open-end funds and $1.1 billion of negative foreign-
currency translation.
Management fee-generating AUM, a forward-looking metric, increased $0.8 billion, or 1.0%, to $78.9 billion
as of December 31, 2015, from $78.1 billion as of December 31, 2014. The increase reflected an aggregate $6.6
billion increase from the commencement of the investment periods of Power Fund IV and Oaktree Special
Situations Fund (“SSF”) in November 2015, and of Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (“Opps X”) and Oaktree Real
Estate Opportunities Fund VII (“ROF VII”) as of January 1, 2016, and $2.8 billion of aggregate fee-generating
leverage and drawdowns or contributions by closed-end and evergreen funds for which management fees are
based on drawn capital or NAV. These increases were partially offset by $2.8 billion attributable to closed-end
funds in liquidation, $2.3 billion of net outflows from open-end funds, $2.2 billion in market-value declines and $0.9
billion of negative foreign-currency translation.
Incentive-creating AUM decreased $2.0 billion, or 5.9%, to $31.9 billion as of December 31, 2015, from
$33.9 billion as of December 31, 2014. The decrease reflected an aggregate $6.0 billion in distributions by closed-
end funds, market-value declines and negative foreign-currency translation, partially offset by $4.0 billion in
drawdowns by closed-end funds.
Accrued Incentives (Fund Level) and Incentives Created (Fund Level)
Accrued incentives (fund level), gross and net of incentive income compensation expense, as well as
changes in accrued incentives (fund level), are set forth below.
As of or for the Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Accrued Incentives (Fund Level):
Beginning balance .......................................................................................... $
2,014,097
$
1,585,217
$
1,949,407
Incentives created (fund level):
Closed-end funds ....................................................................................
Evergreen funds ......................................................................................
Total incentives created (fund level) .................................................
Less: incentive income recognized by us .......................................................
588,220
49,246
637,466
746,349
37,683
784,032
(731,224)
(355,152)
Ending balance .............................................................................................. $
1,920,339
Accrued incentives (fund level), net of associated incentive income
compensation expense ............................................................................... $
920,852
$
$
2,014,097
946,542
$
$
(100,633)
249
(100,384)
(263,806)
1,585,217
811,540
As of December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, the portion of net accrued incentives (fund level) represented by
funds that were currently paying incentives was $237.2 million (or 26%), $201.7 million (21%) and $292.1 million
(36%), respectively, with the remainder arising from funds that as of that date were not at the stage of their cash
distribution waterfall where Oaktree was entitled to receive incentives, other than possibly tax-related distributions.
As of December 31, 2017, $803.5 million, or 87%, of the net accrued incentives (fund level) was in
evergreen or closed-end funds in their liquidation period, and approximately 22% of the assets underlying total net
accrued incentives (fund level) were Level I or Level II securities. Please see “—Critical Accounting Policies—Fair
Value of Financial Instruments” for a discussion of the fair-value hierarchy level established by GAAP.
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
Incentives created (fund level) was $637.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, reflecting $247.5
million of incentives created (fund level) from Distressed Debt funds, $219.5 million from Control Investing funds
and $113.6 million from Real Estate funds.
Incentives created (fund level) was $784.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, reflecting $517.0
96
million of incentives created (fund level) from Control Investing funds, $163.5 million from Distressed Debt funds
and $50.1 million from Real Estate funds.
Incentives created (fund level) was negative $100.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015,
reflecting negative incentives created (fund level) of $339.4 million from Distressed Debt funds, partially offset by
$115.2 million of incentives created (fund level) from Real Estate funds and $92.2 million from Control Investing
funds.
Uncalled Capital Commitments
As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, uncalled capital commitments were $20.5 billion and $20.8 billion,
respectively. Invested capital during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 aggregated $7.1 billion and
$8.5 billion, respectively.
Non-GAAP Results
Our business is comprised of one segment, our investment management business, which consists of the
investment management services that we provide to our clients. Management makes operating decisions and
assesses the performance of our business based on financial data that are presented without the consolidation of
our funds. The data most important to management in assessing our performance are adjusted net income,
adjusted net income-OCG, distributable earnings, distributable earnings-OCG, fee-related earnings and fee-related
earnings-OCG. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP
financial measures are presented below under “—Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Results.”
Adjusted Net Income
The following schedules set forth the components of adjusted net income and adjusted net income-OCG,
as well as per unit data:
Adjusted Revenues
Revenues:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Management fees ...................................................................................... $
Incentive income ........................................................................................
Investment income .....................................................................................
747,261
731,224
249,225
$
785,673
$
753,805
355,152
221,377
263,806
48,253
Total adjusted revenues ...................................................................... $ 1,727,710
$ 1,362,202
$ 1,065,864
Adjusted Expenses
Expenses:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Compensation and benefits ....................................................................... $ (381,914)
Equity-based compensation .......................................................................
(53,639)
Incentive income compensation .................................................................
General and administrative ........................................................................
Depreciation and amortization ....................................................................
(132,340)
(402,828)
(9,150)
$ (381,937)
$ (404,442)
(50,098)
(169,683)
(135,654)
(12,219)
(37,906)
(141,822)
(124,402)
(10,018)
Total adjusted expenses ..................................................................... $ (979,871)
$ (749,591)
$ (718,590)
97
Adjusted Interest and Other Expense, Net
Interest expense, net of interest income (1) ........................................................ $
Other expense, net
...........................................................................................
(26,375)
$
(31,845)
$
(35,032)
(20,364)
(8,392)
(3,927)
(1)
Interest income was $8.8 million, $6.6 million and $5.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015,
respectively.
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Adjusted Net Income
Adjusted net income ......................................................................................... $
Adjusted net income attributable to OCGH non-controlling interest ............
Non-Operating Group income (expense) ...................................................
Adjusted net income-OCG before income taxes ................................................
Income taxes-OCG ....................................................................................
144,143
432,650
(210,949)
Adjusted net income-OCG ................................................................................ $
221,701
Adjusted net income per Class A unit ................................................................ $
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding ....................................
3.46
64,148
Year Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2016
Adjusted Revenues
Management Fees
A summary of management fees is set forth below:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands, except per unit data)
701,100
$
572,374
$
308,315
(412,593)
(340,718)
(212,352)
(1,176)
230,480
(39,756)
190,724
3.05
62,565
$
$
(2,097)
93,866
(15,195)
78,671
1.59
49,324
$
$
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
(in thousands)
Management Fees:
Closed-end funds ............................................................................................................................ $
Open-end funds ..............................................................................................................................
Evergreen funds ..............................................................................................................................
Total
................................................................................................................................................ $
522,338
$
575,290
162,402
62,521
156,533
53,850
747,261
$
785,673
Management fees decreased $38.4 million, or 4.9%, to $747.3 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $785.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, for the reasons described below.
• Closed-end funds. Management fees attributable to closed-end funds decreased $53.0 million, or
9.2%, to $522.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $575.3 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016. The decrease reflected an aggregate decline of $79.6 million primarily attributable
to closed-end funds in liquidation, partially offset by an aggregate increase of $26.6 million principally
from the start of the investment period for EPF IV and closed-end funds that pay management fees
based on drawn capital, NAV or cost basis.
• Open-end funds. Management fees attributable to open-end funds increased $5.9 million, or 3.8%, to
$162.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $156.5 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting market value gains.
98
• Evergreen funds. Management fees attributable to evergreen funds increased $8.6 million, or 16.0%,
to $62.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $53.9 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016. The increase reflected the BDC acquisition and market value gains.
Incentive Income
A summary of incentive income is set forth below:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
(in thousands)
Incentive Income:
Closed-end funds ............................................................................................................................ $
Evergreen funds ..............................................................................................................................
Total
................................................................................................................................................ $
687,413
43,811
731,224
$
$
320,866
34,286
355,152
Incentive income increased $376.0 million, or 105.9%, to $731.2 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $355.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was primarily attributable to $427.8
million of incentive income from POF IV, which started paying incentive income (other than tax-related) in the
second quarter of 2017. Tax-related incentive income represented $81.2 million and $72.7 million in 2017 and
2016, respectively.
Investment Income
A summary of investment income is set forth below:
Income (loss) from investments in funds:
Oaktree funds:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
(in thousands)
Corporate Debt
........................................................................................................................ $
35,656
$
24,375
Convertible Securities ..............................................................................................................
Distressed Debt
.......................................................................................................................
Control Investing ......................................................................................................................
Real Estate ..............................................................................................................................
Listed Equities ..........................................................................................................................
Non-Oaktree funds ......................................................................................................................
Income from investments in companies ..........................................................................................
Total investment income .................................................................................................................. $
1,790
58,649
22,373
19,511
32,855
7,080
71,311
(788)
57,605
34,422
11,025
22,646
5,665
66,427
249,225
$
221,377
Investment income increased $27.8 million, or 12.6%, to $249.2 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $221.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Excluding the $22.7 million impairment charge
taken in the first quarter of 2016 on investments in certain of our CLOs, investment income increased $5.1 million,
or 2.1%. DoubleLine accounted for investment income of $71.5 million and $66.1 million in 2017 and 2016,
respectively, of which performance fees accounted for $4.2 million and $4.7 million, respectively.
Adjusted Expenses
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits expense was $381.9 million for both years ended December 31, 2017 and
2016.
Equity-based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense increased $3.5 million, or 7.0%, to $53.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $50.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.
99
Incentive Income Compensation
Incentive income compensation expense increased $233.1 million, or 137.4%, to $402.8 million for the year
ended December 31, 2017, from $169.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting the
growth in incentive income.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense decreased $3.4 million, or 2.5%, to $132.3 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $135.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting lower
placement costs, partially offset by higher legal fees.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $3.0 million, or 24.6%, to $9.2 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, from $12.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting the final
amortization of certain leasehold improvements in the first quarter of 2017.
Interest Expense, Net of Interest Income
Interest expense, net decreased $5.4 million, or 17.0%, to $26.4 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $31.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, reflecting the maturity of $100.0 million in senior
notes in 2016 and higher interest income.
Other Expense, Net
Other expense, net increased $12.0 million, to $20.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from
$8.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase primarily reflected the $22.0 million make-whole
premium expensed in 2017 in connection with the early repayment of our $250 million of 6.75% Senior Notes due
2019, partially offset by losses associated with non-operating corporate activities and an impairment charge taken
on our corporate aircraft in 2016.
Adjusted Net Income
ANI increased $128.7 million, or 22.5%, to $701.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from
$572.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting increases of $142.9 million in incentive
income, net of incentive income compensation expense (“net incentive income”), and $27.8 million in investment
income, partially offset by $32.0 million in lower fee-related earnings and $12.0 million in higher other expense, net.
Non-Operating Group Income (Expense)
Non-Operating Group income (expense) increased $145.3 million, to income of $144.1 million for the year
ended December 31, 2017, from expense of $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, reflecting the
$145.1 million of income in 2017 related to the remeasurement of our tax receivable agreement liability in
connection with the Tax Act.
Income Taxes-OCG
Income taxes increased $171.1 million, to $210.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from
$39.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting the $178.2 million in additional tax expense
related to the Tax Act. Excluding the impact of the Tax Act, income taxes decreased $7.1 million, or 17.8%, to $32.7
million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $39.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily
reflecting a lower effective tax rate for 2017, partially offset by higher adjusted net income-OCG before income
taxes. The effective tax rates applied to ANI for 2017 and 2016 were 49% and 17%, respectively. Excluding the
impact of the Tax Act, the effective tax rate for 2017 was 11%. We generally expect variability in tax rates between
periods, because the effective tax rate is a function of the mix of income and other factors, each of which can have
a material impact on the particular period’s income tax expense and often vary significantly within or between years.
In general, the annual effective tax rate increases as the proportion of ANI arising from fee-related earnings,
DoubleLine-related investment income, and certain incentive and investment income rises, and vice versa.
100
Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2015
Adjusted Revenues
Management Fees
A summary of management fees is set forth below:
Year Ended December 31,
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Management Fees:
Closed-end funds ............................................................................................................................ $
Open-end funds ..............................................................................................................................
Evergreen funds ..............................................................................................................................
Total
................................................................................................................................................ $
575,290
$
518,513
156,533
53,850
178,409
56,883
785,673
$
753,805
Management fees increased $31.9 million, or 4.2%, to $785.7 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, from $753.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, for the reasons described below.
• Closed-end funds. Management fees attributable to closed-end funds grew $56.8 million, or 11.0%, to
$575.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $518.5 million for the year ended
December 31, 2015. The growth reflected an aggregate increase of $116.8 million principally from the
start of investment periods for Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund IV, Special Situations Fund, Opps X
and ROF VII. This increase was partially offset by an aggregate decline of $60.0 million primarily
attributable to closed-end funds in liquidation.
• Open-end funds. Management fees attributable to open-end funds decreased $21.9 million, or
12.3%, to $156.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $178.4 million for the year ended
December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting net outflows.
• Evergreen funds. Management fees attributable to evergreen funds decreased $3.0 million, or 5.3%,
to $53.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $56.9 million for the year ended
December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting net outflows and a reduction in the average management fee
rate for Value Opportunities. The decrease was partially offset by drawdowns of capital commitments
by Strategic Credit.
Incentive Income
A summary of incentive income is set forth below:
Year Ended December 31,
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Incentive Income:
Closed-end funds ............................................................................................................................ $
Evergreen funds ..............................................................................................................................
Total
................................................................................................................................................ $
320,866
34,286
355,152
$
$
261,143
2,663
263,806
Incentive income increased $91.4 million, or 34.6%, to $355.2 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, from $263.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. In 2016, regular incentive and tax-related
incentive income accounted for $282.5 million and $72.7 million, respectively, of which the former arose from ten
closed-end funds among the Distressed Debt, Control Investing, Real Estate and Mezzanine strategies, as well as
four evergreen fund strategies. In 2015, regular and tax-related incentive income accounted for $121.0 million and
$142.8 million, respectively, of which the former arose from nine closed-end funds among the Distressed Debt,
Control Investing and Real Estate strategies, as well as one evergreen fund strategy.
101
Investment Income
A summary of investment income is set forth below:
Income (loss) from investments in funds:
Oaktree funds:
Year Ended December 31,
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Corporate Debt
........................................................................................................................ $
24,375
$
Convertible Securities ..............................................................................................................
Distressed Debt
.......................................................................................................................
Control Investing ......................................................................................................................
Real Estate ..............................................................................................................................
Listed Equities ..........................................................................................................................
Non-Oaktree funds ......................................................................................................................
Income from investments in companies ..........................................................................................
Total investment income .................................................................................................................. $
(788)
57,605
34,422
11,025
22,646
5,665
66,427
221,377
$
7,020
(201)
(46,977)
17,072
14,980
(1,857)
7,930
50,286
48,253
Investment income increased $173.1 million, to $221.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from
$48.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase primarily reflected higher overall returns on our
fund investments, despite a $22.7 million impairment charge in the first quarter of 2016 on investments in certain of
our CLOs. DoubleLine accounted for investment income of $66.1 million and $55.0 million in 2016 and 2015,
respectively, of which performance fees accounted for $4.7 million and $4.3 million, respectively.
Adjusted Expenses
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits expense decreased $22.5 million, or 5.6%, to $381.9 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $404.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting an overall shift
in compensation mix from cash to equity.
Equity-based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense increased $12.2 million, or 32.2%, to $50.1 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $37.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase reflected non-cash
amortization expense associated with vesting of Class A and OCGH unit grants made to employees and directors
subsequent to our initial public offering, coupled with an overall shift in compensation mix from cash to equity.
Incentive Income Compensation
Incentive income compensation expense increased $27.9 million, or 19.7%, to $169.7 million for the year
ended December 31, 2016, from $141.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase reflected
growth in incentive income, as well as differences in the applicable funds’ compensation percentages. Additionally,
2015 included catch-up tax amounts related to incentive interests awarded to certain investment professionals.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense increased $11.3 million, or 9.1%, to $135.7 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $124.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting higher
placement costs.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $2.2 million, or 22.0%, to $12.2 million for the year ended
December 31, 2016, from $10.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting leasehold
improvements associated with office space expansion.
102
Interest Expense, Net of Interest Income
Interest expense, net decreased $3.2 million, or 9.1%, to $31.8 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, from $35.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting higher interest income, as well as the
maturity of $100.0 million in senior notes during 2016.
Other Income (Expense), Net
Other income (expense), net amounted to expense of $8.4 million and $3.9 million for the years ended
December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, primarily reflecting losses associated with non-operating corporate
activities. Additionally, 2016 included a $4.4 million impairment charge on our corporate aircraft.
Adjusted Net Income
ANI increased $264.1 million, or 85.7%, to $572.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from
$308.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting increases of $173.1 million in investment income,
$63.5 million in net incentive income and $41.0 million in fee-related earnings.
Income Taxes-OCG
Income taxes increased $24.6 million, to $39.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $15.2
million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting higher adjusted net income-OCG before income
taxes. The effective tax rate applied to ANI for 2016 and 2015 was 17% and 16%, respectively. We generally
expect variability in tax rates between periods, because the effective tax rate is a function of the mix of income and
other factors, each of which can have a material impact on the particular period’s income tax expense and often
vary significantly within or between years. In general, the annual effective tax rate increases as the proportion of
ANI arising from fee-related earnings, DoubleLine-related investment income, and certain incentive and investment
income rises, and vice versa.
Distributable Earnings
Distributable earnings are set forth below:
Distributable Earnings:
Adjusted net income ......................................................................................... $
Investment income .....................................................................................
Receipts of investment income from funds (1) .............................................
Receipts of investment income from companies ........................................
Equity-based compensation .......................................................................
Other (income) expense, net (2) ..................................................................
Operating Group income taxes ..................................................................
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
701,100
$
572,374
$
308,315
(249,225)
128,468
67,995
53,639
21,962
(7,632)
(221,377)
66,390
63,700
50,098
—
(4,635)
(48,253)
101,296
48,067
37,906
—
(3,374)
Distributable earnings ....................................................................................... $
716,307
$
526,550
$
443,957
(1) This adjustment characterizes a portion of the distributions received from funds as receipts of investment income or loss.
In general, the income or loss component of a fund distribution is calculated by multiplying the amount of the distribution by
the ratio of our investment’s undistributed income or loss to our remaining investment balance. In addition, if the
distribution is made during the investment period, it is generally not reflected in distributable earnings until after the
investment period ends. Additionally, any impairment charges on our CLO investments included in ANI are, for
distributable earnings purposes, amortized over the remaining investment period of the respective CLO to align with the
timing of expected cash flows.
(2) For distributable earnings purposes, the $22 million make-whole premium charge included in ANI in the fourth quarter of
2017 in connection with the early repayment of our 2019 Notes is amortized through the original maturity date of December
2019.
103
Year Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2016
Distributable earnings increased $189.7 million, or 36.0%, to $716.3 million for the year ended December
31, 2017, from $526.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, reflecting increases of $142.9 million in net
incentive income and $66.4 million in investment income proceeds, partially offset by $32.0 million in lower fee-
related earnings. For 2017, investment income proceeds totaled $196.5 million, including $128.5 million from fund
distributions and $68.0 million from DoubleLine, as compared with total investment income proceeds in 2016 of
$130.1 million, of which $66.4 million and $63.7 million was attributable to fund distributions and DoubleLine,
respectively. The portion of distributable earnings attributable to our Class A units was $4.16 and $2.87 per unit for
2017 and 2016, respectively, reflecting distributable earnings per Operating Group unit of $4.60 and $3.40,
respectively, less costs borne by Class A unitholders.
Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2015
Distributable earnings grew $82.6 million, or 18.6%, to $526.6 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, from $444.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting increases of $63.5 million in net
incentive income, and $41.0 million in fee-related earnings, partially offset by a $19.3 million decline in investment
income proceeds. For 2016, investment income proceeds totaled $130.1 million, including $66.4 million from fund
distributions and $63.7 million from DoubleLine, as compared with total investment income proceeds in 2015 of
$149.4 million, of which $101.3 million and $51.7 million was attributable to fund distributions and DoubleLine,
respectively. The portion of distributable earnings attributable to our Class A units was $2.87 and $2.39 per unit for
2016 and 2015, respectively, reflecting distributable earnings per Operating Group unit of $3.40 and $2.89,
respectively, less costs borne by Class A unitholders.
Fee-related Earnings
Year Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2016
Fee-related earnings decreased $32.0 million, or 12.5%, to $223.9 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, from $255.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily reflecting the $38.4 million decline in
management fees, partially offset by $3.4 million in lower general and administrative expenses. The portion of fee-
related earnings attributable to our Class A units was $0.85 and $1.42 per unit for 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Excluding the impact of the Tax Act, fee-related earnings attributable to our Class A units for 2017 were $1.33 per
unit.
The effective tax rates applicable to fee-related earnings for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 were
77% and 13%, respectively. Excluding the impact of the Tax Act, the effective tax rate applicable to fee-related
earnings for 2017 was 6%. In general, the annual effective tax rate increases as annual fee-related earnings
increase, and vice versa.
Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2015
Fee-related earnings grew $41.0 million, or 19.1%, to $255.9 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, from $214.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase reflected $31.9 million of higher
management fees and $22.5 million of lower compensation and benefits expense, partially offset by $11.3 million of
higher general and administrative expense. The portion of fee-related earnings attributable to our Class A units was
$1.42 and $1.32 per unit for 2016 and 2015, respectively.
The effective tax rate applicable to fee-related earnings for 2016 and 2015 was 13% and 4%, respectively.
In general, the annual effective tax rate increases as annual fee-related earnings increase, and vice versa.
104
Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Results
The following table reconciles net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC to adjusted net
income, fee-related earnings and distributable earnings.
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ..................................... $
Incentive income (1) .....................................................................................
Incentive income compensation (1) ..............................................................
Investment income (2) .................................................................................
Equity-based compensation (3)
...................................................................
Foreign-currency hedging (4) .......................................................................
Acquisition-related items (5) .........................................................................
Income taxes (6) ..........................................................................................
Non-Operating Group (income) expense (7) ................................................
Non-controlling interests (7) .........................................................................
Adjusted net income ..........................................................................................
Incentive income ........................................................................................
Incentive income compensation .................................................................
Investment income .....................................................................................
Equity-based compensation (8) ...................................................................
Interest expense, net of interest income .....................................................
Other (income) expense, net ......................................................................
Fee-related earnings .........................................................................................
Incentive income ........................................................................................
Incentive income compensation .................................................................
Receipts of investment income from funds (9) .............................................
Receipts of investment income from companies .........................................
Interest expense, net of interest income .....................................................
Other (income) expense, net ......................................................................
Operating Group income taxes ...................................................................
Distributable earnings ........................................................................................ $
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
231,494
$
194,705
$
71,349
(13,653)
13,653
(30,613)
5,698
1,453
1,838
215,442
(144,143)
419,931
701,100
(731,224)
402,828
(249,225)
53,639
26,375
20,364
223,857
731,224
1,407
(1,407)
(21,814)
13,626
1,496
(924)
42,519
1,176
341,590
572,374
(355,152)
169,683
(221,377)
50,098
31,845
8,392
255,863
355,152
(19,002)
19,009
—
16,475
2,619
5,251
17,549
2,097
192,968
308,315
(263,806)
141,822
(48,253)
37,906
35,032
3,927
214,943
263,806
(402,828)
(169,683)
(141,822)
128,468
67,995
(26,375)
1,598
(7,632)
66,390
63,700
(31,845)
(8,392)
(4,635)
101,296
48,067
(35,032)
(3,927)
(3,374)
716,307
$
526,550
$
443,957
(1) This adjustment adds back the effect of timing differences associated with the recognition of incentive income and
incentive income compensation expense between adjusted net income and net income attributable to OCG.
(2) This adjustment adds back the effect of differences in the recognition of investment income related to corporate
investments in CLOs which under GAAP are marked-to-market but for ANI are accounted for at amortized cost, subject to
impairment.
(3) This adjustment adds back the effect of equity-based compensation expense related to unit grants made before our initial
public offering, which is excluded from adjusted net income and fee-related earnings because it is a non-cash charge that
does not affect our financial position.
(4) This adjustment adds back the effect of timing differences associated with the recognition of unrealized gains and losses
related to foreign-currency hedging between adjusted net income and net income attributable to OCG.
(5) This adjustment adds back the effect of acquisition-related items associated with the amortization of intangibles and
changes in the contingent consideration liability, which are excluded from adjusted net income.
(6) Because adjusted net income and fee-related earnings are pre-tax measures, this adjustment adds back the effect of
income tax expense.
(7) Because adjusted net income and fee-related earnings are calculated at the Operating Group level, this adjustment adds
back the effect of items applicable to OCG, its Intermediate Holding Companies or non-controlling interests.
(8) This adjustment adds back the effect of equity-based compensation expense related to unit grants made after our initial
public offering, which is excluded from fee-related earnings because it is non-cash in nature and does not impact our ability
to fund our operations.
(9) This adjustment reflects the portion of distributions received from funds characterized as receipts of investment income or
loss. In general, the income or loss component of a distribution from a fund is calculated by multiplying the amount of the
distribution by the ratio of our investment’s undistributed income or loss to our remaining investment balance. In addition, if
105
the distribution is made during the investment period, it is generally not reflected in distributable earnings until after the
investment period ends.
The following table reconciles net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC to adjusted net
income-OCG, fee-related earnings-OCG and distributable earnings-OCG.
Adjusted net income-OCG (6)
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ..................................... $
Incentive income attributable to OCG (1) ......................................................
Incentive income compensation attributable to OCG (1) ...............................
Investment income attributable to OCG (2) ..................................................
Equity-based compensation attributable to OCG (3) ....................................
Foreign-currency hedging attributable to OCG (4) ........................................
Acquisition-related items attributable to OCG (5) ..........................................
Non-controlling interests attributable to OCG (5) ..........................................
.............................................................................
Incentive income attributable to OCG .........................................................
Incentive income compensation attributable to OCG ..................................
Investment income attributable to OCG ......................................................
Equity-based compensation attributable to OCG (7) ....................................
Interest expense, net of interest income attributable to OCG ......................
Other (income) expense attributable to OCG ..............................................
Non-fee-related earnings income taxes attributable to OCG (8) ...................
Fee-related earnings-OCG (6) .............................................................................
Incentive income attributable to OCG .........................................................
Incentive income compensation attributable to OCG ..................................
Receipts of investment income from funds attributable to OCG ..................
Receipts of investment income from companies attributable to OCG..........
Interest expense, net of interest income attributable to OCG ......................
Other (income) expense attributable to OCG ..............................................
Non-fee-related earnings income taxes attributable to OCG (8) ...................
Distributable earnings-OCG income taxes ..................................................
Tax receivable agreement ...........................................................................
Income taxes of Intermediate Holding Companies ......................................
Distributable earnings-OCG (6) ........................................................................... $
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
231,494
$
194,705
$
71,349
(6,004)
6,004
(12,608)
2,341
618
759
(903)
221,701
(300,718)
165,669
(102,644)
22,089
10,720
8,474
29,205
54,496
300,718
(165,669)
52,923
28,041
(10,720)
(144,409)
(29,205)
(5,394)
(21,608)
207,810
266,983
407
(407)
(8,807)
5,512
572
(372)
(886)
190,724
(143,595)
68,609
(89,698)
20,267
13,002
3,400
26,238
88,947
143,595
(68,609)
26,879
25,784
(13,002)
(3,400)
(26,238)
(11,939)
(20,469)
37,884
(8,087)
8,209
—
5,269
1,006
1,628
(703)
78,671
(81,314)
43,414
(13,693)
12,228
11,642
1,308
12,771
65,027
81,314
(43,414)
32,163
15,735
(11,642)
(1,308)
(12,771)
(2,083)
(19,090)
14,174
$
179,432
$
118,105
(1) This adjustment adds back the effect of timing differences associated with the recognition of incentive income and
incentive income compensation expense between adjusted net income-OCG and net income attributable to OCG.
(2) This adjustment adds back the effect of differences in the recognition of investment income related to corporate
investments in CLOs which under GAAP are marked-to-market but for ANI are accounted for at amortized cost, subject to
impairment.
(3) This adjustment adds back the effect of equity-based compensation expense attributable to OCG related to unit grants
made before our initial public offering, which is excluded from adjusted net income-OCG and fee-related earnings-OCG
because it is a non-cash charge that does not affect our financial position.
(4) This adjustment adds back the effect of timing differences associated with the recognition of unrealized gains and losses
related to foreign-currency hedging between adjusted net income-OCG and net income attributable to OCG.
(5) This adjustment adds back the effect of (a) acquisition-related items associated with the amortization of intangibles and
changes in the contingent consideration liability and (b) non-controlling interests, which are both excluded from ANI.
106
(6) Adjusted net income-OCG, fee-related earnings-OCG and distributable earnings-OCG are calculated to evaluate the
portion of adjusted net income, fee-related earnings and distributable earnings attributable to Class A unitholders. These
measures are net of income taxes and other income or expenses applicable to OCG or its Intermediate Holding
Companies. Reconciliations of fee-related earnings to fee-related earnings-OCG and distributable earnings to distributable
earnings-OCG are presented below.
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands, except per unit data)
Fee-related earnings ............................................................................................ $
223,857
$
255,863
$
214,943
Fee-related earnings attributable to OCGH non-controlling interest ............
Non-Operating Group income (expense) .....................................................
Fee-related earnings-OCG income taxes ....................................................
(131,622)
144,005
(181,744)
Fee-related earnings-OCG .................................................................................. $
54,496
Fee-related earnings per Class A unit .................................................................. $
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding ......................................
0.85
64,148
(152,347)
(145,801)
(1,051)
(13,518)
88,947
1.42
62,565
$
$
(1,691)
(2,424)
65,027
1.32
49,324
$
$
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands, except per unit data)
Distributable earnings .......................................................................................... $
716,307
$
526,550
$
443,957
Distributable earnings attributable to OCGH non-controlling interest ...........
(421,401)
(313,534)
(302,582)
Non-Operating Group expenses ..................................................................
Distributable earnings-OCG income taxes ...................................................
Tax receivable agreement ............................................................................
(921)
(5,394)
(21,608)
Distributable earnings-OCG ................................................................................. $
266,983
Distributable earnings per Class A unit ................................................................ $
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding ......................................
4.16
64,148
(1,176)
(11,939)
(20,469)
179,432
2.87
62,565
$
$
(2,097)
(2,083)
(19,090)
118,105
2.39
49,324
$
$
(7) This adjustment adds back the effect of equity-based compensation expense attributable to OCG related to unit grants
made after our initial public offering, which is excluded from fee-related earnings-OCG, because it is non-cash in nature
and does not impact our ability to fund our operations.
(8) This adjustment adds back income taxes associated with incentive income, incentive income compensation expense or
investment income or loss, which are not included in the calculation of fee-related earnings-OCG.
107
The following table reconciles net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC to the GAAP and non-
GAAP financial measures excluding the impact of the Tax Act.
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands)
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ..................................... $
231,494
$
194,705
$
71,349
Impact of the Tax Act
..................................................................................
33,178
—
—
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC, excluding the impact
of the Tax Act
..................................................................................................
Reconciling adjustments (1) .........................................................................
Adjusted net income-OCG, excluding the impact of the Tax Act .........................
Impact of the Tax Act
..................................................................................
Reconciling adjustments (1) .........................................................................
Fee-related earnings-OCG, excluding the impact of the Tax Act ........................ $
264,672
(9,793)
254,879
(2,126)
194,705
(3,981)
190,724
—
71,349
7,322
78,671
—
(167,205)
(101,777)
(13,644)
85,548
$
88,947
$
65,027
(1) Please refer to the table on page 106 for a detailed reconciliation of adjusted GAAP net income attributable to OCG to
adjusted net income-OCG and fee-related earnings-OCG.
The following table reconciles GAAP revenues to adjusted revenues, fee-related earnings revenues and
distributable earnings revenues.
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
GAAP revenues ................................................................................................. $ 1,469,767
100,920
.................................................................................
Consolidated funds (1)
Incentive income (2)
.....................................................................................
Investment income (3) ..................................................................................
Adjusted revenues .............................................................................................
Incentive income .........................................................................................
Investment income ......................................................................................
Fee-related earnings revenues ..........................................................................
Incentive income .........................................................................................
Receipts of investment income from funds .................................................
Receipts of investment income from companies .........................................
(in thousands)
$ 1,125,746
$
201,905
57,737
1,407
177,312
831,003
(19,002)
51,958
(13,653)
170,676
1,727,710
1,362,202
1,065,864
(731,224)
(249,225)
747,261
731,224
128,468
67,995
(355,152)
(221,377)
785,673
355,152
66,390
63,700
(263,806)
(48,253)
753,805
263,806
101,296
48,067
Distributable earnings revenues ......................................................................... $ 1,674,948
$ 1,270,915
$ 1,166,974
(1) This adjustment adds back the amounts attributable to the consolidated funds that were eliminated in consolidation, the
reclassification of gains and losses related to foreign-currency hedging activities from general and administrative expense
to revenues, and the elimination of non-controlling interests from adjusted revenues.
(2) This adjustment adds back the effect of timing differences associated with the recognition of incentive income between
adjusted revenues and GAAP revenues.
(3) This adjustment reclassifies consolidated investment income from other income (loss) to revenues and adds back the
effect of differences in the recognition of investment income related to corporate investments in CLOs between adjusted
revenues and GAAP revenues.
108
The following tables reconcile GAAP consolidated financial data to non-GAAP data:
As of or for the Year Ended December 31, 2017
Consolidated
Adjustments
ANI
...................................................................................
......................................................................................
.........................................................................................
Management fees (1) ..................................................................................... $
Incentive income (1)
Investment income (1)
Total expenses (2)
Interest expense, net (3)
Other income (expense), net (4)
Other income of consolidated funds (5)
.........................................................
Income taxes ................................................................................................
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated funds ....
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated
................................................................................
....................................................................
726,414
743,353
201,289
(1,025,343)
(169,888)
138,519
290,580
(215,442)
(33,204)
(in thousands)
$
20,847
$
747,261
(12,129)
47,936
45,472
143,513
(158,883)
(290,580)
215,442
33,204
731,224
249,225
(979,871)
(26,375)
(20,364)
—
—
—
—
subsidiaries ...............................................................................................
(424,784)
424,784
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC/Adjusted net
income ...................................................................................................... $
231,494
$
469,606
$
701,100
(1) The adjustment (a) adds back amounts earned from the consolidated funds, (b) for management fees, reclassifies $1,332
of net gains related to foreign-currency hedging activities from general and administrative expense, (c) for incentive
income, includes $13,653 related to timing differences in the recognition of incentive income between net income
attributable to OCG and adjusted net income, and (d) for investment income, includes $30,613 related to corporate
investments in CLOs, which under GAAP are marked-to-market but for ANI accounted for at amortized cost, subject to
impairment.
(2) The expense adjustment consists of (a) equity-based compensation expense of $5,698 related to unit grants made before
our initial public offering, (b) consolidated fund expenses of $9,284, (c) expenses incurred by the Intermediate Holding
Companies of $1,059, (d) the effect of timing differences in the recognition of incentive income compensation expense
between net income attributable to OCG and adjusted net income of $13,653, (e) acquisition-related items of $1,838, (f)
adjustments of $14,180 related to amounts received for contractually reimbursable costs that are classified as other
income under GAAP and as expenses for ANI, and (g) $240 of net gains related to foreign-currency hedging activities.
(3) The interest expense adjustment removes interest expense of the consolidated funds and reclassifies interest income from
other income of consolidated funds.
(4) The adjustment to other income (expense), net represents adjustments related to (a) amounts received for contractually
reimbursable costs of $14,180 that are classified as other income under GAAP and as expenses for ANI, (b) the
reclassification of $361 in net gains related to foreign-currency hedging activities from general and administrative expense,
and (c) $145,064 related to the remeasurement of our tax receivable agreement liability in connection with the Tax Act.
(5) The adjustment to other income of consolidated funds removes interest, dividend and other investment income attributable
to third-party investors in our consolidated funds, and reclassifies investment income to revenues and interest income to
interest expense, net.
109
As of or for the Year Ended December 31, 2016
Consolidated
Adjustments
ANI
(in thousands)
...................................................................................
......................................................................................
.........................................................................................
Management fees (1) ..................................................................................... $
Incentive income (1)
Investment income (1)
Total expenses (2)
Interest expense, net (3)
Other income (expense), net (4)
Other income of consolidated funds (5)
.........................................................
Income taxes ................................................................................................
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated funds ....
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated
................................................................................
....................................................................
774,587
351,159
199,126
(789,336)
(120,610)
13,490
180,206
(42,519)
(22,921)
$
11,086
3,993
22,251
39,745
88,765
(21,882)
(180,206)
42,519
22,921
subsidiaries ...............................................................................................
(348,477)
348,477
$
785,673
355,152
221,377
(749,591)
(31,845)
(8,392)
—
—
—
—
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC/Adjusted net
income ...................................................................................................... $
194,705
$
377,669
$
572,374
(1) The adjustment (a) adds back amounts earned from the consolidated funds, (b) for management fees, reclassifies $408 of
net gains related to foreign-currency hedging activities from general and administrative expense, (c) for incentive income,
includes $1,407 related to timing differences in the recognition of incentive income between net income attributable to
OCG and adjusted net income, and (d) for investment income, includes $21,814 related to corporate investments in CLOs,
which under GAAP are marked-to-market but for ANI accounted for at amortized cost, subject to impairment.
(2) The expense adjustment consists of (a) equity-based compensation expense of $13,627 related to unit grants made before
our initial public offering, (b) consolidated fund expenses of $4,428, (c) expenses incurred by the Intermediate Holding
Companies of $1,051, (d) the effect of timing differences in the recognition of incentive income compensation expense
between net income attributable to OCG and adjusted net income of $1,407, (e) acquisition-related items of $924, (f)
adjustments of $21,194 related to amounts received for contractually reimbursable costs that are classified as other
income under GAAP and as expenses for ANI, and (g) $1,776 of net losses related to foreign-currency hedging activities.
(3) The interest expense adjustment removes interest expense of the consolidated funds and reclassifies interest income from
other income of consolidated funds.
(4) The adjustment to other income (expense), net represents adjustments related to (a) amounts received for contractually
reimbursable costs of $21,194 that are classified as other income under GAAP and as expenses for ANI, and (b) the
reclassification of $688 in net losses related to foreign-currency hedging activities from general and administrative
expense.
(5) The adjustment to other income of consolidated funds removes interest, dividend and other investment income attributable
to third-party investors in our consolidated funds, and reclassifies investment income to revenues and interest income to
interest expense, net.
110
As of or for the Year Ended December 31, 2015
Consolidated
Adjustments
ANI
(in thousands)
195,308
$
558,497
$
753,805
...................................................................................
......................................................................................
.........................................................................................
Management fees (1) ..................................................................................... $
Incentive income (1)
Investment income (1)
Total expenses (2)
Interest expense, net (3)
Other income (expense), net (4)
....................................................................
Other loss of consolidated funds (5) ...............................................................
Income taxes ................................................................................................
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated funds .........
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated
................................................................................
6,597
51,958
(940,908)
(216,799)
20,006
(631,575)
(17,549)
257,209
(3,705)
222,318
181,767
(23,933)
631,575
17,549
1,809,683
(1,809,683)
263,806
48,253
(718,590)
(35,032)
(3,927)
—
—
—
—
subsidiaries ...............................................................................................
(205,372)
205,372
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC/Adjusted net
income ...................................................................................................... $
71,349
$
236,966
$
308,315
(1) The adjustment (a) adds back amounts earned from the consolidated funds, (b) for management fees, reclassifies $12,676
of net gains related to foreign-currency hedging activities from general and administrative expense, and (c) for incentive
income, includes $19,002 related to timing differences in the recognition of incentive income between net income
attributable to OCG and adjusted net income.
(2) The expense adjustment consists of (a) equity-based compensation expense of $16,475 related to unit grants made before
our initial public offering, (b) consolidated fund expenses of $165,904, (c) expenses incurred by the Intermediate Holding
Companies of $1,690, (d) the effect of timing differences in the recognition of incentive income compensation expense
between net income attributable to OCG and adjusted net income of $19,009, (e) acquisition-related items of $5,251, (f)
adjustments of $23,552 related to amounts received for contractually reimbursable costs that are classified as other
income under GAAP and as expenses for ANI, (g) $9,676 of net gains related to foreign-currency hedging activities, and
(h) other expenses of $113.
(3) The interest expense adjustment removes interest expense of the consolidated funds and reclassifies interest income from
other income of consolidated funds.
(4) The adjustment to other income (expense), net represents adjustments related to (a) amounts received for contractually
reimbursable costs of $23,552 that are classified as other income under GAAP and as expenses for ANI, and (b) the
reclassification of $381 in net losses related to foreign-currency hedging activities from general and administrative
expense.
(5) The adjustment to other income of consolidated funds removes interest, dividend and other investment income attributable
to third-party investors in our consolidated funds, and reclassifies investment income to revenues and interest income to
interest expense, net.
111
GAAP Statement of Financial Condition
We manage our financial condition without the consolidation of our funds. Since our founding, we have
managed our financial condition in a way that builds our capital base and maintains sufficient liquidity for known and
anticipated uses of cash. We have issued debt largely to help fund our corporate investments in funds and
companies, favoring longer terms to better match the multi-year nature of our typical investments. Our assets do
not include accrued incentives (fund level), an off-balance sheet metric, nor do they reflect the fair-market value of
our 20% interest in DoubleLine, which is carried at cost, as adjusted under the equity method of accounting.
The following table presents our GAAP condensed consolidating statement of financial condition:
As of December 31, 2017
Oaktree and
Operating
Subsidiaries
Consolidated
Funds
Eliminations
Consolidated
(in thousands)
Assets:
Cash and cash-equivalents ................................................... $
U.S. Treasury and other securities ........................................
Corporate investments ..........................................................
Deferred tax assets ...............................................................
Receivables and other assets ...............................................
Assets of consolidated funds ................................................
$
481,631
176,602
1,691,549
202,460
790,423
—
—
—
—
—
—
6,356,819
$
—
—
$
481,631
176,602
(681,918)
1,009,631
—
(2,670)
(100)
202,460
787,753
6,356,719
Total assets .................................................................... $ 3,342,665
$ 6,356,819
$
(684,688)
$ 9,014,796
Liabilities and Capital:
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses ...................... $
Due to affiliates ..............................................................
Debt obligations .............................................................
Liabilities of consolidated funds .....................................
Total liabilities .........................................................
428,297
177,873
746,274
—
1,352,444
$
5,403
$
433,700
$
—
—
—
4,907,039
4,907,039
(131,255)
(125,852)
—
—
177,873
746,274
4,775,784
6,133,631
Non-controlling redeemable interests in consolidated funds .
Capital:
—
—
860,548
860,548
Unitholders’ capital attributable to OCG .........................
Non-controlling interest in consolidated subsidiaries......
Non-controlling interest in consolidated funds ................
Total capital ............................................................
868,984
1,121,237
—
233,537
325,299
890,944
(233,537)
(325,299)
(860,548)
868,984
1,121,237
30,396
1,990,221
1,449,780
(1,419,384)
2,020,617
Total liabilities and capital ....................................... $ 3,342,665
$ 6,356,819
$
(684,688)
$ 9,014,796
112
Corporate Investments
A summary of corporate investments is set forth below:
Investments in funds:
Oaktree funds:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
(in thousands)
Corporate Debt
..................................................................................................................... $
553,897
$
422,330
Convertible Securities ...........................................................................................................
Distressed Debt
....................................................................................................................
Control Investing ...................................................................................................................
Real Estate ...........................................................................................................................
Listed Equities ......................................................................................................................
Non-Oaktree funds ...................................................................................................................
Investments in companies ...........................................................................................................
28,537
354,843
247,546
263,732
137,941
39,802
42,294
1,735
426,108
265,919
141,234
116,988
71,682
34,932
Total corporate investments – Non-GAAP ....................................................................................
1,668,592
1,480,928
Adjustments (1)
.........................................................................................................................
22,957
4,263
Total corporate investments – Oaktree and operating subsidiaries ..............................................
1,691,549
1,485,191
Eliminations ..............................................................................................................................
(681,918)
(361,459)
Total corporate investments – Consolidated ................................................................................ $ 1,009,631
$ 1,123,732
(1) This adjusts CLO investments carried at amortized cost to fair value for GAAP reporting.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We manage our liquidity and capital requirements by focusing on our cash flows before the consolidation of
our funds and the effect of normal changes in short-term assets and liabilities. Our primary cash flow activities on
an unconsolidated basis involve (a) generating cash flow from operations, (b) generating income from investment
activities, including strategic investments in certain third parties, (c) funding capital commitments that we have
made to our funds, (d) funding our growth initiatives, (e) distributing cash flow to our owners and (f) borrowings,
interest payments and repayments under credit agreements, our senior notes and other borrowing arrangements.
As of December 31, 2017, we had $658 million of cash and U.S. Treasury and other securities, and $746 million in
outstanding debt, which included no borrowings outstanding against our $500 million revolving credit facility. Our
investments in funds and companies on a non-GAAP basis had a carrying value of $1.7 billion as of December 31,
2017.
Ongoing sources of cash include (a) management fees, which are collected monthly or quarterly, (b)
incentive income, which is volatile and largely unpredictable as to amount and timing, and (c) distributions
stemming from our corporate investments in funds and companies. As of December 31, 2017, corporate
investments of $1.7 billion included unrealized investment income proceeds of $421 million, of which $176 million
was in closed-end funds in their liquidation period. We primarily use cash flow from operations and distributions
from our corporate investments to pay compensation and related expenses, general and administrative expenses,
income taxes, debt service, capital expenditures and distributions. This same cash flow, together with proceeds
from equity and debt issuances, is also used to fund corporate investments, fixed assets and other capital items. If
cash flow from operations was insufficient to fund distributions, we may suspend paying such distributions.
We use distributable earnings, which is derived from ANI, to assess performance and assist in the
determination of equity distributions from the Operating Group. Our quarterly distributable earnings may be
affected by potential seasonal factors that may, in turn, affect the level of the cash distributions applicable to a
particular quarter. For example, we generally receive tax-related incentive distributions from certain closed-end
funds in the first quarter of the year, which if received generate distributable earnings in that period. Additionally,
DoubleLine’s corporate distributions to us may vary in length of period covered. For example, the quarterly
distributions made in the second and fourth quarters typically have covered two and four months of activity,
respectively. The distribution amount for any given period is likely to vary materially due to these and other factors.
113
Tax distributions are not required in respect of the Class A units and are only required from the Oaktree
Operating Group entities if and to the extent there is sufficient cash available for distribution. Accordingly, if there
were insufficient cash flow from operations to fund quarterly or tax distributions by the Oaktree Operating Group
entities, we expect that these distributions would not be made. We believe that we have sufficient access to cash
from existing balances, our operations and the revolving credit facility described below to fund our operations and
commitments.
Consolidated Cash Flows
The accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows include our consolidated funds, despite the fact
that we typically have only a minority economic interest in those funds. The assets of consolidated funds, on a
gross basis, are larger than the assets of our business and, accordingly, have a substantial effect on the cash flows
reflected in our consolidated statements of cash flows. The primary cash flow activities of our consolidated funds
involve:
• raising capital from third-party investors;
• using the capital provided by us and third-party investors to fund investments and operating expenses;
• financing certain investments with indebtedness;
• generating cash flows through the realization of investments, as well as the collection of interest and
dividend income; and
• distributing net cash flows to fund investors and to us.
Because our consolidated funds are either treated as investment companies for accounting purposes or
represent CLOs whose primary operations are investing activities, their investing cash flow amounts are included in
our cash flows from operations. We believe that each of the consolidated funds and Oaktree has sufficient access
to cash to fund their respective operations in the near term.
Significant amounts from our consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31,
2017, 2016 and 2015 are discussed below.
Operating Activities
Operating activities used $336.3 million, $317.9 million and $943.2 million of cash in 2017, 2016 and 2015,
respectively. These amounts principally reflected net purchases of securities of the consolidated funds of $1,070.7
million, $862.0 million and $2,287.9 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, partially offset by net income in
each respective period.
Investing Activities
Investing activities provided $343.0 million of cash in 2017 and used $98.6 million and $53.6 million of cash
in 2016 and 2015, respectively. Net activity from purchases, maturities and sales of U.S. Treasury and other
securities included net proceeds of $581.2 million in 2017 and net purchases of $96.5 million and $5.6 million in
2016 and 2015, respectively. Corporate investments in funds and companies of $158.7 million, $113.5 million and
$82.3 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, consisted of the following:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
Funds .......................................................................
Eliminated in consolidation .......................................
Total investments ......................................................
$
$
487.2
(328.5)
158.7
$
$
238.8
(125.3)
113.5
$
$
300.4
(218.1)
82.3
114
Distributions and proceeds from corporate investments in funds and companies of $264.2 million, $181.8 million
and $58.0 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, consisted of the following:
Funds .......................................................................
Eliminated in consolidation .......................................
Unconsolidated companies .......................................
Total investments ......................................................
$
264.2
$
181.8
$
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
$
369.6
$
291.1
$
347.0
(105.4)
(109.3)
(313.0)
—
—
24.0
58.0
Purchases of fixed assets were $29.4 million, $70.4 million and $23.7 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively,
with 2016 including a deposit on a new corporate aircraft. Additionally, 2017 included a $319.4 million payment for
the BDC acquisition and $5.0 million in proceeds from the sale of a prior corporate aircraft.
Financing Activities
Financing activities used $51.0 million of cash in 2017 and provided $763.3 million and $992.3 million of
cash in 2016 and 2015, respectively. Financing activities included: (a) net contributions from non-controlling
interests in consolidated funds of $183.1 million and $84.3 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively, and net
distributions to non-controlling interests in consolidated funds of $1.2 billion in 2015; (b) net borrowings on credit
facilities of the consolidated funds of $331.8 million, $368.0 million and $1.6 billion in 2017, 2016 and 2015,
respectively; (c) distributions to unitholders of $562.0 million, $394.5 million and $372.7 million in 2017, 2016 and
2015, respectively; (d) net unit purchases of $12.3 million, $12.8 million and $4.9 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015,
respectively; (e) payments of debt issuance costs of $8.2 million, $14.3 million and $25.2 million in 2017, 2016 and
2015, respectively; and (f) proceeds from debt obligations issued by our CLOs of $1.7 billion, $839.4 million and
$983.0 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Additionally, 2017 included proceeds from the issuance of
$250.0 million of senior notes due 2032, which were used to repay $250.0 million of senior notes due 2019, and
repayments of $1.7 billion related to CLO debt obligations that were refinanced. The 2016 year included the
maturity of $100.0 million in senior notes and $100.0 million in proceeds from the issuance of senior notes, which
were used to repay $100.0 million of borrowings outstanding under our $250.0 million term loan due 2021.
Future Sources and Uses of Liquidity
We expect to continue to make distributions to our Class A unitholders pursuant to our distribution policy. In
the future, we may also issue additional units or debt and other equity securities with the objective of increasing our
available capital. In addition, we may, from time to time, repurchase our Class A units in open market or privately
negotiated purchases or otherwise, redeem our Class A units pursuant to the terms of our operating agreement, or
repurchase OCGH units.
In addition to our ongoing sources of cash that include management fees, incentive income and
distributions related to our corporate investments in funds and companies, we also have access to liquidity through
our debt financings and credit agreements. We believe that the sources of liquidity described below will be
sufficient to fund our working capital requirements for at least the next twelve months.
In December 2017, our indirect subsidiary, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., issued and sold to certain
accredited investors $250 million of 3.78% senior notes due 2032 (the “2017 Notes”). The 2017 Notes are senior
unsecured obligations of the issuer, jointly and severally guaranteed by our indirect subsidiaries, Oaktree Capital I,
L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P. and Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P. The proceeds from the sale of the 2017 Notes and
cash on hand were used to redeem the $250 million of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2019 and to pay the related make-
whole premium to holders thereof. In connection with the Notes offering, we entered into a cross-currency swap
agreement to euros, reducing the interest cost to 1.95% per year. The 2017 Notes provide for certain affirmative
and negative covenants, including financial covenants relating to the issuer’s and guarantors’ combined leverage
ratio and minimum assets under management. In addition, the 2017 Notes contain customary representations and
warranties of the issuer and the guarantors, and customary events of default, in certain cases, subject to cure
periods. The issuer may prepay all, or from time to time any part of, the 2017 Notes at any time, subject to the
issuer’s payment of the applicable make-whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount prepaid.
115
Upon the occurrence of a change of control, the issuer will be required to make an offer to prepay the 2017 Notes
together with the applicable make-whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount prepaid.
In July 2016, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., issued and sold to certain accredited investors $100
million of 3.69% senior notes due July 12, 2031 (the “2016 Notes”). The 2016 Notes are senior unsecured
obligations of the issuer, jointly and severally guaranteed by Oaktree Capital I, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P. and
Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P. pursuant to a note and guaranty agreement. The proceeds from the sale of the 2016
Notes were used to simultaneously repay $100 million of borrowings outstanding under our $250 million term loan
due March 31, 2021. The 2016 Notes provide for certain affirmative and negative covenants, including financial
covenants relating to the issuer’s and guarantors’ combined leverage ratio and minimum assets under
management. In addition, the 2016 Notes contain customary representations and warranties of the issuer and the
guarantors, and customary events of default, in certain cases, subject to cure periods. The issuer may prepay all,
or from time to time any part of, the 2016 Notes at any time, subject to the issuer’s payment of the applicable make-
whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount prepaid. Upon the occurrence of a change of
control, the issuer will be required to make an offer to prepay the 2016 Notes together with the applicable make-
whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount prepaid.
In March 2016, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P., Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.,
and Oaktree Capital I, L.P. (collectively, the “Borrowers”) entered into the Second Amendment to Credit Agreement
(the “Second Amendment”), which amended the credit agreement dated as of March 31, 2014 (as amended
through and including the Second Amendment, the “Credit Agreement”). The Credit Agreement consists of a $250
million fully-funded term loan, of which $100 million was repaid in July 2016, and a $500 million revolving credit
facility (the “Revolver”). The Second Amendment extended the maturity date of the Credit Agreement from March
31, 2019 to March 31, 2021, at which time the entire remaining principal balance of $150 million is due, and
provides the Borrowers with the option to extend the new maturity date by one year if the lenders holding at least
50% of the aggregate amount of the term loan and the revolving loan commitment thereunder on the date of the
Borrowers’ extension request consent to such extension. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement generally bear
interest at a spread to either LIBOR or an alternative base rate. Based on the current credit ratings of Oaktree
Capital Management, L.P., the interest rate on borrowings is LIBOR plus 1.00% per annum and the commitment fee
on the unused portions of the Revolver is 0.125% per annum. The Credit Agreement contains customary financial
covenants and restrictions, including ones regarding a maximum leverage ratio of 3.0-to-1.0 and a minimum
required level of assets under management (as defined in the credit agreement). The Second Amendment
increased the minimum level of assets under management to $60 billion and made certain other amendments to the
provisions of the Credit Agreement. As of December 31, 2017, we had no outstanding borrowings under our $500
million revolving credit facility.
In September 2014, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. issued and sold to certain accredited investors $50
million aggregate principal amount of 3.91% Senior Notes, Series A, due September 3, 2024 (the “Series A Notes”),
$100 million aggregate principal amount of 4.01% Senior Notes, Series B, due September 3, 2026 (the “Series B
Notes”) and $100 million aggregate principal amount of 4.21% Senior Notes, Series C, due September 3, 2029 (the
“Series C Notes” and together with the Series A Notes and the Series B Notes, the “2014 Notes”) pursuant to a note
and guarantee agreement. The 2014 Notes are senior unsecured obligations of the issuer, guaranteed on a joint
and several basis by Oaktree Capital I, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P. and Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P. Interest on
the 2014 Notes is payable semi-annually. The 2014 Notes provide for certain affirmative and negative covenants,
including financial covenants relating to the issuer’s and guarantors’ combined leverage ratio and minimum assets
under management. In addition, the 2014 Notes contain customary representations and warranties of the issuer
and the guarantors, and customary events of default, in certain cases, subject to cure periods. The issuer may
prepay all, or from time to time any part of, the 2014 Notes at any time, subject to the issuer’s payment of the
applicable make-whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount prepaid. Upon the occurrence of
a change of control, the issuer will be required to make an offer to prepay the 2014 Notes together with the
applicable make-whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount prepaid.
We are required to maintain minimum net capital balances for regulatory purposes in the U.S. and certain
non-U.S. jurisdictions in which we do business, which are met in part by retaining cash and cash-equivalents in
those jurisdictions. As a result, we may be restricted in our ability to transfer cash between different jurisdictions.
As of December 31, 2017, we were required to maintain approximately $115.5 million in net capital at these
subsidiaries and were in compliance with all regulatory minimum net capital requirements as of such date.
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. have entered into a tax receivable agreement with
OCGH unitholders that, as amended, provides for the payment to an exchanging or selling OCGH unitholder of
116
85% of the amount of cash savings, if any, in U.S. federal, state, local and foreign income taxes that they actually
realize (or are deemed to realize in the case of an early termination payment by Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree
AIF Holdings, Inc., or a change of control) as a result of an increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by the
Oaktree Operating Group.
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Act was signed into law, which, among other items, lowers the U.S.
corporate tax rate. As a result, the existing deferred tax assets and liabilities of Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree
AIF Holdings, Inc. were remeasured. The remeasurement resulted in a net reduction to GAAP net income and
adjusted net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC of $33.2 million, comprised of $178.2 million in
additional tax expense from the remeasurement of our deferred tax assets at lower corporate tax rates and a
$145.1 million benefit to other income from the remeasurement of our tax receivable agreement liability, the value of
which is based upon an 85% share of certain of our deferred tax assets.
On February 12, 2018, we issued and sold 5,000,000 Class A units in a public offering, resulting in $219.5
million in net proceeds to us. We did not retain any proceeds from the sale of Class A units in this offering. The
proceeds were used to acquire interests in our business from certain of our directors, employees and other
investors, including certain senior executives and other members of our senior management.
Assuming no further material changes in the relevant tax law and that the Company earns sufficient taxable
income to realize the full tax benefit of the increased amortization of the assets, as of December 31, 2017, future
payments of this nature were estimated to aggregate $17.3 million over the period ending approximately in 2029
with respect to the 2007 Private Offering, $36.8 million over the period ending approximately in 2034 with respect to
the initial public offering, $51.1 million over the period ending approximately in 2035 with respect to the public
offering in May 2013, $38.6 million over the period ending approximately in 2036 with respect to the public offering
in March 2014, $32.5 million over the period ending approximately in 2037 with respect to the public offering in
March 2015, and $34.3 million over the period ending approximately in 2040 with respect to the public offering in
February 2018. Future estimated payments to OCGH unitholders under the tax receivable agreement are subject
to increase in the event of additional exchanges of OCGH units.
For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, $20.0 million, $18.8 million and
$15.7 million were paid under the tax receivable agreement.
117
Contractual Obligations, Commitments and Contingencies
In the ordinary course of business, Oaktree and our consolidated funds enter into contractual arrangements
that may require future cash payments. The following table sets forth information related to anticipated future cash
payments as of December 31, 2017:
2018
2019-2020
2021-2022
Thereafter
Total
(in thousands)
Oaktree and Operating Subsidiaries:
Operating lease obligations (1) ..................... $
Debt obligations payable (2) .........................
Interest obligations on debt (3) ......................
Tax receivable agreement ...........................
Contingent consideration (4) .........................
Commitments to Oaktree and third-party
funds (5) ....................................................
Subtotal ................................................
Consolidated Funds:
Debt obligations payable (2) .........................
Interest obligations on debt (3) ......................
Debt obligations of CLOs (2) .........................
Interest on debt obligations of CLOs (3) ........
Commitments to fund investments (6) ...........
—
27,161
20,196
18,778
429,075
512,985
—
26,159
47,470
65,512
6,025
17,775
$
35,768
$
29,628
$
74,628
$
—
54,323
26,712
—
—
150,000
47,589
28,851
—
—
600,000
171,938
100,524
—
—
116,803
256,068
947,090
157,799
750,000
301,011
176,283
18,778
429,075
1,832,946
—
52,318
—
—
52,318
870,098
147,991
870,098
278,786
—
3,111,825
3,159,295
130,762
130,762
379,007
—
—
—
706,043
6,025
Total ..................................................... $
658,151
$
299,883
$
439,148
$ 5,456,011
$
6,853,193
(1) We lease our office space under agreements that expire periodically through 2030. The table includes only guaranteed
minimum lease payments for these leases and does not project other lease-related payments. These leases are classified
as operating leases for financial statement purposes and as such are not recorded as liabilities in our consolidated
financial statements.
(2) These obligations represent future principal payments, gross of debt issuance costs, and for CLOs, the par value.
(3)
Interest obligations include accrued interest on outstanding indebtedness. Where applicable, current interest rates are
applied to estimate future interest obligations on variable-rate debt.
(4) This represents the undiscounted contingent consideration obligation as of December 31, 2017 related to the 2014
Highstar acquisition, which is payable in a combination of cash and fully-vested OCGH units. The amount of the
contingent consideration obligation is based on the achievement of certain performance targets over a period of up to
seven years from the acquisition date. Due to uncertainty in the timing of payment, if any, the entire amount is presented
in the 2018 column.
(5) These obligations represent commitments by us to provide general partner capital funding to our funds and limited partner
capital funding to funds managed by unaffiliated third parties. These amounts are generally due on demand and are
therefore presented in the 2018 column. Capital commitments are expected to be called over a period of several years.
These obligations represent commitments by our funds to make investments or fund uncalled contingent commitments.
These amounts are generally due either on demand or by various contractual dates that vary by investment and are
therefore presented in the 2018 column. Capital commitments are expected to be called over a period of several years.
(6)
In some of our service contracts or management agreements, we have agreed to indemnify third-party
service providers or separate account clients under certain circumstances. The terms of the indemnities vary from
contract to contract and the amount of indemnification liability, if any, cannot be determined and has neither been
included in the above table nor recorded in our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2017.
As of December 31, 2017, none of the incentive income we had recognized was subject to clawback by the
funds.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements. Please see note 16 for information on our
commitments and contingencies.
118
Critical Accounting Policies
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP. In applying many of these
accounting principles, we need to make assumptions, estimates or judgments that affect the reported amounts of
assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses in our consolidated financial statements. We base our estimates and
judgments on historical experience and other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances.
These assumptions, estimates or judgments, however, are both subjective and subject to change, and actual
results may differ from our assumptions and estimates. If actual amounts are ultimately different from our
estimates, the revisions are included in our results of operations for the period in which the actual amounts become
known. We believe our critical accounting policies could potentially produce materially different results if we were to
change underlying assumptions, estimates or judgments. For a summary of our significant accounting policies,
please see the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report.
Principles of Consolidation
We consolidate entities in which we have a direct or indirect controlling financial interest based on either a
variable interest model or voting interest model. A limited partnership or similar entity is a VIE if the unaffiliated
limited partners do not have substantive kick-out or participating rights. Most of the Oaktree funds are VIEs
because they have not granted unaffiliated limited partners substantive kick-out or participating rights. We
consolidate those VIEs in which we are the primary beneficiary. An entity is deemed to be the primary beneficiary if
it holds a controlling financial interest. A controlling financial interest is defined as (a) the power to direct the
activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (b) the obligation to absorb
losses of the entity or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The
consolidation guidance requires an analysis to determine (a) whether an entity in which we hold a variable interest
is a VIE and (b) whether our involvement, through holding interests directly or indirectly in the entity or contractually
through other variable interests (e.g., management and performance-based fees), would give us a controlling
financial interest. A decision maker’s fee arrangement is not considered a variable interest if (a) it is compensation
for services provided, commensurate with the level of effort required to provide those services, and part of a
compensation arrangement that includes only terms, conditions or amounts that are customarily present in
arrangements for similar services negotiated at arm’s length (“at-market”), and (b) the decision maker does not hold
any other variable interests that absorb more than an insignificant amount of the potential VIE’s expected residual
returns.
We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE at the time we become involved with a VIE
and reconsider that conclusion at each reporting date. In evaluating whether we are the primary beneficiary, we
evaluate our economic interests in the entity held either directly by us or indirectly through related parties. The
consolidation analysis can generally be performed qualitatively; however, if it is not readily apparent that we are not
the primary beneficiary, a quantitative analysis may also be performed. Investments and redemptions (either by us,
our affiliates or third parties) or amendments to the governing documents of the respective Oaktree funds could
affect an entity’s status as a VIE or the determination of the primary beneficiary. We do not consolidate most of the
Oaktree funds because we are not the primary beneficiary of those funds due to the fact that our fee arrangements
are considered at-market and thus not deemed to be variable interests, and we do not hold any other interests in
those funds that are considered to be more than insignificant. Please see note 4 to our consolidated financial
statements included elsewhere in this annual report for more information regarding both consolidated and
unconsolidated VIEs. For entities that are not VIEs, consolidation is evaluated through a majority voting interest
model.
When funds or CLOs are consolidated, we reflect the assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and cash flows
of the funds or CLOs on a gross basis, and the majority of the economic interests in those funds or CLOs, which are
held by third-party investors, are reflected as non-controlling interests in consolidated funds or debt obligations of
CLOs in the consolidated financial statements. All of the revenues earned by us as investment manager of the
consolidated funds are eliminated in consolidation. However, because the eliminated amounts are earned from and
funded by third-party investors, the consolidation of a fund does not impact net income or loss attributable to us.
Certain entities in which we have the ability to exert significant influence, including unconsolidated Oaktree
funds for which we act as general partner, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting.
119
Revenue Recognition
Management Fees
Management fees are recognized over the period in which the investment advisory services are performed.
The contractual terms of management fees generally vary by fund structure. For most closed-end funds, the
management fee rate is applied against committed capital during the fund’s investment period and the lesser of
total funded capital or cost basis of assets in the liquidation period. However, for certain closed-end funds,
management fees during the investment period are calculated based on drawn capital or cost basis. Additionally,
for those closed-end funds for which management fees are based on committed capital, we may elect to delay the
start of the fund’s investment period and thus its full management fees, in which case we earn management fees
based on drawn capital, and in certain cases outstanding borrowings under a fund-level credit facility made in lieu of
drawing capital, until we elect to start the fund’s investment period. Our right to receive management fees typically
ends after 10 or 11 years from the initial closing date or the start of the investment period, even if assets remain in
the fund. In the case of CLOs, the management fee is based on the aggregate par value of collateral assets and
principal cash, as defined in the applicable CLO indentures, and a portion of the management fees is dependent on
the sufficiency of the particular vehicle’s cash flow. For open-end and evergreen funds, the management fee is
generally based on the NAV of the fund. For our publicly-traded BDCs, the management fee is based on gross
assets (including assets acquired with leverage), net of cash.
In the case of certain open-end fund accounts, we have the potential to earn performance-based fees,
typically in reference to a relevant benchmark index or hurdle rate, which are classified as management fees.
Management fees also include the quarterly incentive fees on investment income we earn from our publicly-traded
BDCs and certain evergreen fund accounts, which are recurring in nature.
Fee calculations that consider committed capital, drawn capital or cost basis are each objective in nature
and therefore do not require the use of significant estimates or assumptions. Management fees related to our
open-end and evergreen funds, by contrast, are typically based on NAV as defined in the respective partnership or
investment management agreement. NAV is typically based on the current fair value of the underlying investments
within a fund. Estimates and assumptions are made when determining the fair value of the underlying investments
within a fund and could vary depending on the valuation methodology used. Please see “—Investments, at Fair
Value” below for further discussion related to significant estimates and assumptions used in determining the fair
value of the underlying investments in our funds.
We do not recognize incremental income for transaction, advisory, director and other ancillary fees received
in connection with providing services to portfolio companies or potential investees of the funds; rather, any such
fees are offset against management fees earned from the applicable fund. These fees are typically recognized as
revenue in the period in which they are offset against the quarterly management fees that would otherwise be paid
by the applicable fund, which is generally the quarter following the period in which the fees are received.
Incentive Income
Incentive income generally represents 20% of each closed-end fund’s profits, subject to the return of
contributed capital and a preferred return of typically 8% per annum, and up to 20% of certain evergreen fund’s
annual profits, subject to high-water marks or hurdle rates. We have elected to adopt Method 1 for revenue
recognition based on a formula. Under this method, incentive income is recognized when amounts are fixed or
determinable, all related contingencies have been removed and collection is reasonably assured, which generally
occurs in the quarter of, or the quarter immediately prior to, the distribution of the income by the fund to us. The
Method 1 criteria for revenue recognition is typically met (a) for closed-end funds, only after all contributed capital
and the preferred return on that capital have been distributed to the fund’s investors, and (b) for certain evergreen
funds, at the conclusion of each annual measurement period. Incentives received by us before the above criteria
have been met are deferred and recorded as a deferred incentive income liability within accounts payable, accrued
expenses and other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition. We may receive tax distributions
related to taxable income allocated by funds, which are treated as an advance of incentive income and subject to
the same recognition criteria. Tax distributions are contractually not subject to clawback.
For purposes of adjusted net income, incentive income is recognized when the underlying fund distributions
are known or knowable as of the respective quarter end, which may be later than the time at which the same
incentive income is recognized under Method 1.
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Other Income (Loss)
Other income (loss) includes the unrealized and realized gains (losses) on consolidated funds’ investments
(including the impact of foreign currency on non-U.S. dollar denominated investments), dividend and interest
income received from investments, and interest expense incurred in connection with investment activities.
Unrealized gains or losses result from changes in the fair value of our funds’ investments during a period as well as
the reversal of unrealized gains or losses in connection with realization events. Upon disposition of an investment,
previously recognized unrealized gains or losses are reversed and a corresponding realized gain or loss is
recognized in the current period. While this reversal does not impact the net amounts of net gains and losses that
we recognize from investment activities, it affects the manner in which we classify our gains and losses for reporting
purposes.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
GAAP establishes a hierarchical disclosure framework that prioritizes the inputs used in measuring financial
instruments at fair value into three levels based on their market observability. Market price observability is affected
by a number of factors, such as the type of instrument and the characteristics specific to the instrument. Financial
instruments with readily available quoted prices from an active market or for which fair value can be measured
based on actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of market price observability and a lesser
degree of judgment inherent in measuring fair value.
Financial assets and liabilities measured and reported at fair value are classified as follows:
•
•
•
Level I – Quoted unadjusted prices for identical instruments in active markets to which we have
access at the date of measurement. The types of investments in Level I include exchange-traded
equities, debt and derivatives with quoted prices.
Level II – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar
instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs
are directly or indirectly observable. Level II inputs include interest rates, yield curves, volatilities,
prepayment risks, loss severities, credit risks and default rates. The types of investments in Level II
generally include corporate bonds and loans, government and agency securities, less liquid and
restricted equity investments, over-the-counter traded derivatives, debt obligations of consolidated
CLOs, and other investments where the fair value is based on observable inputs.
Level III – Valuations for which one or more significant inputs are unobservable. These inputs reflect
our assessment of the assumptions that market participants use to value the investment based on the
best available information. Level III inputs include prices of quoted securities in markets for which
there are few transactions, less public information exists or prices vary among brokered market
makers. The types of investments in Level III include non-publicly traded equity, debt, real estate and
derivatives.
In some instances, the inputs used to value an instrument may fall into multiple levels of the fair-value
hierarchy. In such instances, the instrument’s level within the fair-value hierarchy is based on the lowest of the
three levels (with Level III being the lowest) that is significant to the fair-value measurement. Our assessment of
the significance of an input requires judgment and considers factors specific to the instrument. Transfers of assets
into or out of each fair value hierarchy level as a result of changes in the observability of the inputs used in
measuring fair value are accounted for as of the beginning of the reporting period. Transfers resulting from a
specific event, such as a reorganization or restructuring, are accounted for as of the date of the event that caused
the transfer.
In the absence of observable market prices, we value Level III investments using valuation methodologies
applied on a consistent basis. The quarterly valuation process for Level III investments begins with each portfolio
company, property or security being valued by the investment or valuation teams. With the exception of open-end
funds, all unquoted Level III investment values are reviewed and approved by (i) our valuation officer, who is
independent of the investment teams, (ii) a designated investment professional of each strategy and (iii) for a
substantial majority of unquoted Level III holdings as measured by market value, a valuation committee for such
strategy. For open-end funds, unquoted Level III investment values are reviewed and approved by our valuation
officer. For certain investments, the valuation process also includes a review by independent valuation parties, at
least annually, to determine whether the fair values determined by management are reasonable. Results of the
valuation process are evaluated each quarter, including an assessment of whether the underlying calculations
should be adjusted or recalibrated. In connection with this process, we periodically evaluate changes in fair-value
121
measurements for reasonableness, considering items such as industry trends, general economic and market
conditions, and factors specific to the investment.
Certain assets are valued using prices obtained from pricing vendors or brokers. We seek to obtain prices
from at least two pricing vendors for the subject of similar securities. In cases where vendor pricing is not reflective
of fair value, a secondary vendor is unavailable, or no vendor pricing is available, a comparison value made up of
quotes for the subject or similar securities received from broker dealers may be used. These investments may be
classified as Level III because the quoted prices may be indicative in nature for securities that are in an inactive
market, may be for similar securities, or may require adjustment for investment-specific factors or restrictions. We
evaluate the prices obtained from brokers or pricing vendors based on available market information, including
trading activity of the subject or similar securities, or by performing a comparable security analysis to ensure that
fair values are reasonably estimated. We also perform back-testing of valuation information obtained from pricing
vendors and brokers against actual prices received in transactions. In addition to ongoing monitoring and back-
testing, we perform due diligence procedures surrounding pricing vendors to understand their methodology and
controls to support their use in the valuation process.
Fair Value Option
We have elected the fair value option for certain corporate investments that otherwise would not have
reflected unrealized gains and losses in current-period earnings. Such election is irrevocable and is applied on an
investment-by-investment basis at initial recognition. Unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair
value are reflected as a component of investment income in the consolidated statements of operations. Our
accounting for these investments is similar to its accounting for investments held by the consolidated funds at fair
value, and the valuation methods are consistent with those used to determine the fair value of the consolidated
funds’ investments.
We have elected the fair value option for the financial assets and financial liabilities of our consolidated
CLOs. The assets and liabilities of CLOs are primarily reflected within the investments, at fair value and within the
debt obligations of CLOs line items in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Our accounting for CLO
assets is similar to its accounting for its funds with respect to both carrying investments held by CLOs at fair value
and the valuation methods used to determine the fair value of those investments. The fair value of CLO liabilities is
measured as the fair value of CLO assets less the sum of (a) the fair value of any beneficial interests held by us
and (b) the carrying value of any beneficial interests that represent compensation for services. Realized gains or
losses and changes in the fair value of CLO assets, respectively, are included in net realized gain on consolidated
funds’ investments and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in
the consolidated statements of operations. Interest income of CLOs is included in interest and dividend income,
and interest expense and other expenses, respectively, are included in interest expense and consolidated fund
expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. Changes in the fair value of a CLO’s financial liabilities in
accordance with the CLO measurement guidance are included in net change in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Investments, at Fair Value
The consolidated funds include investment limited partnerships and CLOs that reflect their investments,
including majority-owned and controlled investments, at fair value. We have retained the specialized investment
company accounting guidance under GAAP for investment limited partnerships with respect to consolidated
investments and have elected the fair value option for the financial assets of CLOs. Thus, the investments of our
consolidated funds are reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value, with unrealized
gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected as a component of net change in unrealized
appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in the consolidated statements of operations. Fair
value is the amount 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 (i.e., the exit price).
Non-publicly traded debt and equity securities and other securities or instruments for which reliable market
quotations are not available are valued by management using valuation methodologies applied on a consistent
basis. These securities may initially be valued at the acquisition price as the best indicator of fair value. We review
the significant unobservable inputs, valuations of comparable investments and other similar transactions for
investments valued at acquisition price to determine whether another valuation methodology should be utilized.
Subsequent valuations will depend on the facts and circumstances known as of the valuation date and the
application of valuation methodologies as further described below under “—Non-publicly Traded Equity and Real
122
Estate Investments.” The fair value may also be based on a pending transaction expected to close after the
valuation date.
Exchange-traded Investments
Securities listed on one or more national securities exchanges are valued at their last reported sales price
on the date of valuation. If no sale occurred on the valuation date, the security is valued at the mean of the last
“bid” and “ask” prices on the valuation date. Securities that are not readily marketable due to legal restrictions that
may limit or restrict transferability are generally valued at a discount from quoted market prices. The discount would
reflect the amount market participants would require due to the risk relating to the inability to access a public market
for the security for the specified period and would vary depending on the nature and duration of the restriction and
the perceived risk and volatility of the underlying securities. Securities with longer duration restrictions or higher
volatility are generally valued at a higher discount. Such discounts are generally estimated based on put option
models or an analysis of market studies. Instances where we have applied discounts to quoted prices of restricted
listed securities have been infrequent. The impact of such discounts is not material to our consolidated statements
of financial condition and results of operations for all periods presented.
Credit-oriented Investments (including Real Estate Loan Portfolios)
Investments in corporate and government debt which are not listed or admitted to trading on any securities
exchange are valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices on the valuation date based on quotations supplied
by recognized quotation services or by reputable broker-dealers.
The market-yield approach is considered in the valuation of non-publicly traded debt securities, utilizing
expected future cash flows and discounted using estimated current market rates. Discounted cash-flow
calculations may be adjusted to reflect current market conditions and/or the perceived credit risk of the borrower.
Consideration is also given to a borrower’s ability to meet principal and interest obligations; this may include an
evaluation of collateral and/or the underlying value of the borrower utilizing techniques described below under “—
Non-publicly Traded Equity and Real Estate Investments.”
Non-publicly Traded Equity and Real Estate Investments
The fair value of equity and real estate investments is determined using a cost, market or income approach.
The cost approach is based on the current cost of reproducing a real estate investment less deterioration and
functional and economic obsolescence. The market approach utilizes valuations of comparable public companies
and transactions, and generally seeks to establish the enterprise value of the portfolio company or investment
property using a market-multiple methodology. This approach takes into account the financial measure (such as
EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, net operating income, net income, book value or net asset value)
believed to be most relevant for the given company or investment property. Consideration also may be given to
factors such as acquisition price of the security or investment property, historical and projected operational and
financial results for the portfolio company, the strengths and weaknesses of the portfolio company or investment
property relative to its comparable companies or properties, industry trends, general economic and market
conditions, and others deemed relevant. The income approach is typically a discounted cash-flow method that
incorporates expected timing and level of cash flows. It incorporates assumptions in determining growth rates,
income and expense projections, discount and capitalization rates, capital structure, terminal values, and other
factors. The applicability and weight assigned to market and income approaches are determined based on the
availability of reliable projections and comparable companies and transactions.
The valuation of securities may be impacted by expectations of investors’ receptiveness to a public offering
of the securities, the size of the holding of the securities and any associated control, information with respect to
transactions or offers for the securities (including the transaction pursuant to which the investment was made and
the elapsed time from the date of the investment to the valuation date), and applicable restrictions on the
transferability of the securities.
These valuation methodologies involve a significant degree of management judgment. Accordingly,
valuations by us do not necessarily represent the amounts that eventually may be realized from sales or other
dispositions of investments. Fair values may differ from the values that would have been used had a ready market
for the investment existed, and the differences could be material to the consolidated financial statements.
123
The table below summarizes the investments and other financial instruments, net of debt obligations, by
fund structure and fair-value hierarchy levels, held by our consolidated funds for each period presented in our
consolidated statements of financial condition (in thousands):
As of December 31, 2017
Level I
Level II
Level III
Total
Closed-end funds .............................................................. $
Open-end funds ................................................................
Evergreen funds ................................................................
Total
.................................................................................. $
4,430
3,813
131,598
$
1,378,742
$
117,527
$
1,500,699
548,361
(87)
48,788
121,087
600,962
252,598
139,841
$
1,927,016
$
287,402
$
2,354,259
As of December 31, 2016
Closed-end funds .............................................................. $
Open-end funds ................................................................
Evergreen funds ................................................................
Total
.................................................................................. $
6,078
$
320,688
$
242,961
$
569,727
37,608
44,660
59,832
(941)
—
1,393
97,440
45,112
88,346
$
379,579
$
244,354
$
712,279
Derivatives and Hedging
We enter into derivatives as part of our overall risk management strategy or to facilitate its investment
management activities. Risks associated with fluctuations in interest rates and foreign-currency exchange rates in
the normal course of business are addressed as part of our overall risk management strategy that may include the
use of derivatives to economically hedge or reduce these exposures. From time to time, we may enter into
(a) foreign-currency option and forward contracts to reduce earnings and cash-flow volatility associated with
changes in foreign-currency exchange rates, and (b) interest-rate swaps to manage all or a portion of the interest-
rate risk associated with its variable-rate borrowings. As a result of the use of these or other derivative contracts,
we are exposed to the risk that counterparties will fail to fulfill their contractual obligations. We attempt to mitigate
this counterparty risk by entering into derivative contracts only with major financial institutions that have investment-
grade credit ratings. Counterparty credit risk is evaluated in determining the fair value of derivatives.
We recognize all derivatives as assets or liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial condition at
fair value. In connection with our derivative activities, we generally enter into agreements subject to enforceable
master netting arrangements that allow us to offset derivative assets and liabilities in the same currency by specific
derivative type or, in the event of default by the counterparty, to offset derivative assets and liabilities with the same
counterparty. While these derivatives are eligible to be offset in accordance with applicable accounting guidance,
we have elected to present derivative assets and liabilities based on gross fair value in our consolidated statements
of financial condition.
When we enter into a derivative contract, we may elect to designate the derivative as a hedging instrument
and apply hedge accounting as part of our overall risk management strategy. In other situations, when a derivative
does not qualify for hedge accounting or when the derivative and the hedged item are both recorded in current-
period earnings and thus deemed to be economic hedges, hedge accounting is not applied. Freestanding
derivatives are financial instruments that we enter into as part of our overall risk management strategy but do not
utilize hedge accounting. These financial instruments may include foreign-currency exchange contracts, interest-
rate swaps and other derivative contracts.
Derivatives that are designated as hedging instruments are classified as either a hedge of (a) a recognized
asset or liability (“fair-value hedge”), (b) a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or
paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash-flow hedge”), or (c) a net investment in a foreign operation. For
a fair-value hedge, we record changes in the fair value of the derivative and, to the extent that it is highly effective,
changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability attributable to the hedged risk in current-period earnings in
the same caption in the consolidated statements of operations as the hedged item. Changes in the fair value of a
derivative that is highly effective and is designated and qualifies as a cash-flow hedge, to the extent that the hedge
is effective, are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until earnings are affected by the variability of cash
flows of the hedged transaction. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recorded in current-period earnings. Changes in the
fair value of derivatives designated as hedging instruments that are caused by factors other than changes in the risk
being hedged are excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness and recognized in current-period earnings.
For freestanding derivatives, changes in fair value are recorded in current-period earnings.
124
We formally document at inception the hedge relationship, including identification of the hedging instrument
and the hedged item, as well as the risk management objectives, the strategy for undertaking the hedge
transaction, and the evaluation of effectiveness of the hedged transaction. On a quarterly basis, we formally assess
whether the derivative we designated in each hedging relationship has been and is expected to remain highly
effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flow of the hedged items. If it is determined that a
derivative is not highly effective at hedging the designated exposure, hedge accounting is discontinued and the
balance remaining in other comprehensive income (loss) is released to earnings.
Equity-based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense reflects the non-cash charge associated with grants of Class A units,
OCGH units, EVUs and deferred equity units, and is calculated based on the grant-date fair value of the unit award.
In the first quarter of 2017, we adopted the new accounting guidance related to share-based payment awards, as
further discussed in note 2 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. With
respect to forfeitures, we adopted the guidance on a modified retrospective basis and made an accounting policy
election to account for forfeitures when they occur. Accordingly, no forfeitures have been assumed in the
calculation of compensation expense effective January 1, 2017.
For OCGH unit awards, we utilize a contemporaneous valuation report in determining fair value at the grant
date. The valuation report is based on the market price of Oaktree’s Class A units as well as other pertinent factors.
A discount is then applied to the Class A unit market price to reflect the lack of marketability for equity-classified
awards, if applicable. The determination of an appropriate discount for lack of marketability is based on a review of
discounts on the sale of restricted shares of publicly-traded companies and multi-period put-based quantitative
methods. Factors that influence the size of the discount for lack of marketability include (a) the estimated time it
would take for an OCGH unitholder to exchange units into Class A units, (b) the volatility of the Company’s business
and (c) thin trading of the Class A units. Each of these factors is subject to significant judgment. Equity-based
awards that do not require future service (i.e., awards vested at grant) are expensed immediately. Equity-based
awards that require future service are expensed on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Cash-
settled equity-based awards are classified as liabilities and are remeasured at the end of each reporting period.
Incentive Income Compensation
Incentive income compensation expense primarily reflects compensation directly related to incentive
income, which generally consists of percentage interests (sometimes referred to as “points”) that we grant to our
investment professionals associated with the particular fund that generated the incentive income, and secondarily,
compensation directly related to investment income. We have an obligation to pay a fixed percentage of the
incentive income earned from a particular fund, including income from consolidated funds that is eliminated in
consolidation, to specified investment professionals responsible for the management of the fund. Amounts payable
pursuant to these arrangements are recorded as compensation expense when they have become probable and
reasonably estimable. Our determination of the point at which it becomes probable and reasonably estimable that
incentive income compensation expense should be recorded is based on our assessment of numerous factors,
particularly those related to the profitability, realizations, distribution status, investment profile and commitments or
contingencies of the individual funds that may give rise to incentive income. Incentive income compensation is
expensed no later than the period in which the underlying income is recognized. Payment of incentive income
compensation generally occurs in the same period the related income is received or in the next period.
Participation in incentive income generated by the funds is subject to forfeiture upon departure and to vesting
provisions (generally over a period of five years), in each case, under certain circumstances set forth in the
applicable governing documents. These provisions are generally only applicable to incentive income compensation
that has not yet been recognized as an expense by us or paid to the participant.
Recent Accounting Developments
Please see note 2 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for
information regarding recent accounting developments.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
In the normal course of business, we are exposed to a broad range of risks inherent in the financial markets
in which we participate, including price risk, interest-rate risk, access to and cost of financing risk, liquidity risk,
counterparty risk and foreign exchange-rate risk. Potentially negative effects of these risks may be mitigated to a
certain extent by those aspects of our investment approach, investment strategies, fundraising practices or other
125
business activities that are designed to benefit, either in relative or absolute terms, from periods of economic
weakness, tighter credit or financial market dislocations.
Our predominant exposure to market risk is related to our role as general partner or investment adviser to
our funds and as an investor in our CLOs, and the sensitivities to movements in the fair value of their investments
on management fees, incentive income and investment income, as applicable. The fair value of the financial assets
and liabilities of our funds and CLOs may fluctuate in response to changes in, among many factors, the fair value of
securities, foreign-exchange rates, commodities prices and interest rates.
Price Risk
Impact on Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Consolidated Funds’ Investments
As of December 31, 2017, we had investments at fair value of $5.7 billion related to our consolidated funds,
primarily consisting of investments held by our CLOs. We estimate that a 10% decline in market values would
result in a decrease in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the consolidated funds’ investments of $566.1
million. Of this decline, approximately $206.8 million would impact net income attributable to Oaktree Capital
Group, LLC, with the remainder attributable to non-controlling interests and third-party debt holders in our CLOs.
The magnitude of the impact on net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC is largely affected by the
percentage of our equity ownership interest and levered nature of our CLO investments.
Impact on Management Fees (before consolidation of funds)
Management fees are generally assessed in the case of (a) our open-end and evergreen funds, based on
NAV, and (b) our closed-end funds, based on committed capital, drawn capital or cost basis during the investment
period and, during the liquidation period, based on the lesser of (i) the total funded committed capital or (ii) the cost
basis of assets remaining in the fund. Management fees are affected by changes in market values to the extent
they are based on NAV. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, NAV-based management fees
represented approximately 33% and 30%, respectively, of total management fees. Based on investments held as
of December 31, 2017, we estimate that a 10% decline in market values of the investments held in our funds would
result in an approximate $6.8 million decrease in the amount of quarterly management fees. These estimated
effects are without regard to a number of factors that would be expected to increase or decrease the magnitude of
the change to degrees that are not readily quantifiable, such as the use of leverage facilities in certain of our funds
or the timing of fund flows.
Impact on Incentive Income (before consolidation of funds)
Incentive income is recognized only when it is known or knowable, which in the case of (a) our closed-end
funds, generally occurs only after all contributed capital and an annual preferred return on that capital (typically 8%)
have been distributed to the fund’s investors and (b) our active evergreen funds, generally occurs as of
December 31, based on the increase in the fund’s NAV during the year, subject to any high-water marks or hurdle
rates. In the case of closed-end funds, the link between short-term fluctuations in market values and a particular
period’s incentive income may in part be indirect. Thus the effect on incentive income of a 10% decline in market
values is not readily quantifiable. A decline in market values would be expected to cause a decline in incentive
income.
Impact on Investment Income (before consolidation of funds)
Investment income or loss arises from our pro-rata share of income or loss from our investments, generally
in our capacity as general partner in our funds and as an investor in our CLOs and third-party managed funds or
companies. This income is directly affected by changes in market risk factors. Based on investments held as of
December 31, 2017, a 10% decline in fair values of the investments held in our funds and other holdings would
result in a $309.6 million decrease in the amount of investment income. The estimated decline of $309.6 million is
greater than 10% of the December 31, 2017 corporate investments balance primarily due to the levered nature of
our CLO investments. These estimated effects are without regard to a number of factors that would be expected to
increase or decrease the magnitude of the change to degrees that are not readily quantifiable, such as the use of
leverage facilities in certain of our funds, the timing of fund flows or the timing of new investments or realizations.
Exchange-rate Risk
Our business is affected by movements in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and non-U.S. dollar
currencies in the case of (a) management fees that vary based on the NAV of our funds that hold investments
denominated in non-U.S. dollar currencies, (b) management fees received in non-U.S. dollar currencies,
126
(c) operating expenses for our foreign offices that are denominated in non-U.S. dollar currencies and (d) cash
balances we hold in non-U.S. dollar currencies. We manage our exposure to exchange-rate risks through our
regular operating activities and, when appropriate, through the use of derivative instruments.
We estimate that for the year ended December 31, 2017, without considering the impact of derivative
instruments, a 10% decline in the average exchange rate of the U.S. dollar would have resulted in the following
approximate effects on our operating results:
•
•
•
•
our management fees (relating to (a) and (b) above) would have increased by $13.9 million;
our operating expenses would have increased by $12.9 million;
OCGH interest in net income of consolidated subsidiaries would have increased by $0.6 million; and
our income tax expense would have increased by $0.2 million.
These movements would have increased our net income attributable to OCG by $0.2 million.
At any point in time, some of the investments held by our closed-end and evergreen funds may be
denominated in non-U.S. dollar currencies on an unhedged basis. Changes in currency rates could affect incentive
income, incentives created (fund level) and investment income with respect to such closed-end and evergreen
funds; however, the degree of impact is not readily determinable because of the many indirect effects that currency
movements may have on individual investments.
Credit Risk
We are party to agreements providing for various financial services and transactions that contain an
element of risk in the event that the counterparties are unable to meet the terms of such agreements. In such
agreements, we depend on the respective counterparty to make payment or otherwise perform. We generally
endeavor to minimize our risk of exposure by limiting to reputable financial institutions the counterparties with which
we enter into financial transactions. In other circumstances, availability of financing from financial institutions may
be uncertain due to market events, and we may not be able to access these financing markets.
Interest-rate Risk
As of December 31, 2017, Oaktree and its operating subsidiaries had $746.3 million in debt obligations,
consisting of three senior notes issuances and a funded term loan. Each senior notes issuance accrues interest at
a fixed rate. The funded term loan accrues interest at a variable rate. As of December 31, 2017, interest expense
attributable to Oaktree and its operating subsidiaries would increase by $1.5 million on an annualized basis as a
result of a 100-basis point increase in interest rates. Of the $658.2 million of aggregate cash and U.S. Treasury and
other securities as of December 31, 2017, we estimate that Oaktree and its operating subsidiaries would generate
an additional $6.6 million in interest income on an annualized basis as a result of a 100-basis point increase in
interest rates.
Our consolidated funds have debt obligations, most of which accrue interest at variable rates. Changes in
these rates would affect the amount of interest payments that our funds would have to make, impacting future
earnings and cash flows. As of December 31, 2017, $4.1 billion was outstanding under these debt obligations. We
estimate that interest expense relating to variable-rate debt would increase on an annualized basis by $38.7 million
in the event interest rates were to increase by 100 basis points.
As credit-oriented investors, we are also subject to interest-rate risk through the securities we hold in our
consolidated funds. A 100-basis point increase in interest rates would be expected to negatively affect prices of
securities that accrue interest income at fixed rates and therefore negatively impact the net change in unrealized
appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments. The actual impact is dependent on the average
duration of such holdings. Conversely, securities that accrue interest at variable rates would be expected to benefit
from a 100-basis point increase in interest rates because these securities would generate higher levels of current
income and therefore positively impact interest and dividend income. In cases where our funds pay management
fees based on NAV, we would expect our management fees to experience a change in direction and magnitude
corresponding to that experienced by the underlying portfolios.
127
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements:
Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm ........................................................................
129
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ..............................
132
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 ..........
133
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Years Ended December 31, 2017,
2016 and 2015 ........................................................................................................................................
134
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 .........
135
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Unitholders’ Capital for the Years Ended December 31, 2017,
2016 and 2015 ........................................................................................................................................
137
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements .............................................................................................
138
128
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Unitholders and Board of Directors of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
(the Company) as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of operations,
comprehensive income (loss), cash flows and changes in unitholders’ capital for each of two years in the period
ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial
statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of the Company at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash
flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based
on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated February 23, 2018 expressed
an unqualified opinion thereon.
Adoption of ASU No. 2015-02
As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for
consolidation of its funds and other managed investment vehicles due to the adoption of Accounting Standards
Update No. 2015-02, Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis, effective January 1, 2016.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with
the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal
securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the
PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of
material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that
respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial
statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2016.
Los Angeles, California
February 23, 2018
129
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Unitholders and Board of Directors of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited Oaktree Capital Group, LLC’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017,
based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Oaktree Capital
Group, LLC (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated statements of financial condition of the Company as of December 31,
2017 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), cash flows
and changes in unitholders’ capital for each for two years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related
notes and our report dated February 23, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for
its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on
the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm
registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the
U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission
and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a
material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on
the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We
believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting
includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.
Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may
become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or
procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Los Angeles, California
February 23, 2018
130
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Unitholders of
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
In our opinion, the consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), cash flows and changes in
unitholders’ capital for the year ended December 31, 2015 present fairly, in all material respects, the results of
operations and cash flows of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) for the year ended
December 31, 2015, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express
an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit of these financial statements
in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the
amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Los Angeles, California
February 26, 2016
131
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
($ in thousands)
As of December 31,
2017
2016
Assets
Cash and cash-equivalents ............................................................................................................... $
U.S. Treasury and other securities ....................................................................................................
Corporate investments (includes $50,778 and $107,591 measured at fair value as of December
31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) ...................................................................................................
481,631
176,602
$
291,470
757,578
1,009,631
1,123,732
Due from affiliates .............................................................................................................................
Deferred tax assets ...........................................................................................................................
Other assets ......................................................................................................................................
Assets of consolidated funds:
Cash and cash-equivalents ...............................................................................................................
Investments, at fair value ..................................................................................................................
Dividends and interest receivable .....................................................................................................
Due from brokers ..............................................................................................................................
Receivable for securities sold ............................................................................................................
Derivative assets, at fair value ..........................................................................................................
Other assets ......................................................................................................................................
Total assets ............................................................................................................................... $
Liabilities and Unitholders’ Capital
Liabilities:
Accrued compensation expense ................................................................................................ $
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities .........................................................
Due to affiliates ..........................................................................................................................
Debt obligations .........................................................................................................................
Liabilities of consolidated funds:
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities .........................................................
Payables for securities purchased .............................................................................................
Securities sold short, at fair value ..............................................................................................
Derivative liabilities, at fair value ................................................................................................
Distributions payable .................................................................................................................
Borrowings under credit facilities ...............................................................................................
Debt obligations of CLOs ...........................................................................................................
Total liabilities .....................................................................................................................
223,224
202,460
564,529
477,834
5,660,540
21,144
54,289
141,582
731
599
9,014,796
274,984
158,716
177,873
746,274
18,111
580,906
86,467
953
7,354
862,401
3,219,592
6,133,631
$
$
208,643
404,614
237,466
667,730
3,808,234
15,297
98,746
34,932
357
311
7,649,110
284,510
150,596
346,543
745,897
11,689
291,182
41,016
1,086
9,207
483,956
3,054,210
5,419,892
Commitments and contingencies (Note 16)
Non-controlling redeemable interests in consolidated funds ..............................................................
Unitholders’ capital:
860,548
344,047
Class A units, no par value, unlimited units authorized, 65,310,226 and 63,032,276 units
issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively .............................
Class B units, no par value, unlimited units authorized, 90,975,687 and 91,758,067 units
issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively .............................
Paid-in capital
............................................................................................................................
Retained earnings .....................................................................................................................
Accumulated other comprehensive income ...............................................................................
Class A unitholders’ capital .................................................................................................
Non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries ................................................................
Non-controlling interests in consolidated funds ..........................................................................
.....................................................................................................
Total unitholders’ capital
Total liabilities and unitholders’ capital ................................................................................ $
—
—
788,413
80,128
443
868,984
1,121,237
30,396
2,020,617
9,014,796
$
—
—
749,618
54,494
1,793
805,905
1,050,319
28,947
1,885,171
7,649,110
Please see accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
132
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(in thousands, except per unit amounts)
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Revenues:
Management fees .......................................................................................... $
Incentive income ............................................................................................
Total revenues .........................................................................................
726,414
$
774,587
$
195,308
743,353
351,159
1,469,767
1,125,746
6,597
201,905
Expenses:
Compensation and benefits ............................................................................
Equity-based compensation ...........................................................................
Incentive income compensation .....................................................................
Total compensation and benefits expense ...............................................
General and administrative .............................................................................
Depreciation and amortization ........................................................................
Consolidated fund expenses ..........................................................................
Total expenses ........................................................................................
(392,827)
(389,892)
(416,907)
(59,337)
(416,481)
(868,645)
(130,892)
(15,776)
(10,030)
(63,724)
(168,276)
(621,892)
(145,430)
(16,222)
(5,792)
(1,025,343)
(789,336)
(54,381)
(160,831)
(632,119)
(110,677)
(14,022)
(184,090)
(940,908)
Other income (loss):
Interest expense .............................................................................................
Interest and dividend income ..........................................................................
Net realized gain on consolidated funds’ investments ....................................
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’
investments ................................................................................................
Investment income .........................................................................................
Other income, net ...........................................................................................
Total other income (loss) .........................................................................
Income (loss) before income taxes ........................................................................
Income taxes ..................................................................................................
(169,888)
(120,610)
(216,799)
215,119
20,400
55,061
201,289
138,519
460,500
904,924
165,066
27,593
1,958,802
1,177,150
(12,453)
(3,767,527)
199,126
13,490
272,212
608,622
51,958
20,006
(776,410)
(1,515,413)
(215,442)
(42,519)
(17,549)
Net income (loss)
..................................................................................................
689,482
566,103
(1,532,962)
Less:
Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated
funds ...........................................................................................................
(33,204)
(22,921)
1,809,683
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated
subsidiaries .................................................................................................
(424,784)
(348,477)
(205,372)
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ......................................... $
231,494
Distributions declared per Class A unit
.................................................................. $
3.21
Net income per unit (basic and diluted):
Net income per Class A unit
........................................................................... $
3.61
$
$
$
194,705
2.25
3.11
$
$
$
71,349
2.10
1.45
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding .................................
64,148
62,565
49,324
Please see accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
133
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(in thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2017
Oaktree
Capital Group,
LLC
Non-
controlling
Interests in
Consolidated
Subsidiaries
Non-
controlling
Interests in
Consolidated
Funds
Total
Net income ................................................................................... $
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
231,494
$
424,784
$
33,204
$
689,482
Foreign-currency translation adjustments ..............................
(1,374)
(2,015)
Unrealized gain on interest-rate swap designated as cash-
flow hedge .........................................................................
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax .............................
Total comprehensive income ........................................................
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling
interests .............................................................................
Comprehensive income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group,
24
(1,350)
230,144
36
(1,979)
422,805
—
—
—
33,204
(3,389)
60
(3,329)
686,153
—
(422,805)
(33,204)
(456,009)
LLC ........................................................................................... $
230,144
$
— $
— $
230,144
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Net income ................................................................................... $
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
194,705
$
348,477
$
22,921
$
566,103
Foreign-currency translation adjustments ..............................
2,666
Unrealized gain on interest-rate swap designated as cash-
flow hedge .........................................................................
Other comprehensive income, net of tax ........................
Total comprehensive income ........................................................
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling
interests .............................................................................
Comprehensive income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group,
3,913
504
4,417
—
—
—
6,579
847
7,426
343
3,009
197,714
352,894
22,921
573,529
—
(352,894)
(22,921)
(375,815)
LLC ........................................................................................... $
197,714
$
— $
— $
197,714
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Net income (loss) ......................................................................... $
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign-currency translation adjustments ..............................
Unrealized gain on interest-rate swap designated as cash-
flow hedge .........................................................................
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax .............................
Total comprehensive income (loss) ..............................................
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to non-
controlling interests ............................................................
Comprehensive income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group,
71,349
$
205,372
$ (1,809,683)
$ (1,532,962)
(621)
475
(146)
(1,589)
899
(690)
—
—
—
(2,210)
1,374
(836)
71,203
204,682
(1,809,683)
(1,533,798)
—
(204,682)
1,809,683
1,605,001
LLC ........................................................................................... $
71,203
$
— $
— $
71,203
Please see accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
134
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss) ....................................................................................... $
689,482
$
566,103
$ (1,532,962)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating
activities:
Investment income .............................................................................
Depreciation and amortization ............................................................
Equity-based compensation ...............................................................
(201,289)
(199,126)
15,776
59,337
16,222
63,724
(51,958)
14,022
54,381
Net realized and unrealized (gain) loss from consolidated funds’
investments .....................................................................................
Amortization (accretion) of original issue and market discount of
consolidated funds’ investments, net ...............................................
Income distributions from corporate investments in funds and
companies ......................................................................................
Other non-cash items .........................................................................
Cash flows due to changes in operating assets and liabilities:
(75,461)
(15,140)
2,590,377
(3,816)
(6,583)
(26,366)
182,844
1,028
121,421
4,688
Decrease in deferred tax assets .........................................................
Decrease in other assets ....................................................................
Decrease in net due to affiliates ..........................................................
Increase (decrease) in accrued compensation expense .....................
202,294
7,818
(184,616)
(9,143)
24,578
23,833
(105,401)
(34,915)
50,252
15,689
10,645
34,349
(3,857)
24,948
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses and
other liabilities .................................................................................
7,533
33,595
(26,537)
Cash flows due to changes in operating assets and liabilities of
consolidated funds:
(Increase) decrease in dividends and interest receivable ...................
(Increase) decrease in due from brokers ............................................
(Increase) decrease in receivables for securities sold .........................
(Increase) decrease in other assets ....................................................
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses and
other liabilities .................................................................................
Increase (decrease) in payables for securities purchased ..................
Purchases of securities ......................................................................
(4,328)
44,457
(101,668)
(286)
2,802
259,652
(3,122)
57,605
(21,200)
25
(3,367)
149,575
3,735
(100,826)
8,018
224,296
64,482
(289,294)
(5,337,361)
(3,460,598)
(17,994,888)
Proceeds from maturities and sales of securities ................................
Net cash used in operating activities ..................................................
4,108,640
2,470,177
15,988,267
(336,305)
(317,906)
(943,227)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of U.S. Treasury and other securities .......................................
Proceeds from maturities and sales of U.S. Treasury and other securities
Corporate investments in funds and companies ........................................
Distributions and proceeds from corporate investments in funds and
companies .............................................................................................
Acquisition (BDCs)
....................................................................................
Purchases of fixed assets ..........................................................................
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets ............................................................
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities ..............................
(610,474)
1,191,670
(158,663)
264,226
(319,435)
(29,413)
5,048
342,959
(874,480)
778,018
(113,464)
181,769
—
(70,430)
—
(385,642)
380,055
(82,273)
57,954
—
(23,724)
—
(98,587)
(53,630)
(continued)
Please see accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
135
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – (Continued)
(in thousands)
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of debt obligations ............................................... $
Payment of debt issuance costs ................................................................
Repayments of debt obligations .................................................................
Proceeds from issuance of Class A units ...................................................
Purchase of OCGH units ...........................................................................
Repurchase and cancellation of units ........................................................
Distributions to Class A unitholders ............................................................
Distributions to OCGH unitholders .............................................................
Contributions from non-controlling interests ...............................................
Distributions to non-controlling interests ....................................................
Cash flows from financing activities of consolidated funds:
Contributions from non-controlling interests ...............................................
Distributions to non-controlling interests ....................................................
Proceeds from debt obligations issued by CLOs .......................................
Payment of debt issuance costs ................................................................
Repayment on debt obligations issued by CLOs .......................................
Borrowings on credit facilities ....................................................................
Repayments on credit facilities ..................................................................
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities ............................
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash .........................................................
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash-equivalents .....................................
Initial consolidation of funds ..............................................................................
Cash and cash-equivalents, beginning balance ................................................
Change in cash and cash-equivalents from adoption of accounting guidance ..
Cash and cash-equivalents, ending balance ..................................................... $
—
—
(12,317)
(206,212)
(355,834)
—
(4,784)
331,764
(148,617)
1,709,592
(8,159)
(1,688,229)
702,100
(370,336)
(51,032)
39,285
(5,093)
5,358
250,000
$
100,000
$
—
(1,310)
(250,000)
(200,000)
—
—
—
237,820
(237,820)
(4,926)
(99,120)
(273,534)
4,000
(6,493)
—
—
(12,764)
(141,561)
(252,902)
—
(6,888)
144,060
5,404,333
(59,757)
(6,633,233)
839,448
(13,015)
—
982,962
(25,156)
—
1,025,333
7,682,232
(657,317)
(6,038,796)
763,327
(6,546)
340,288
—
992,269
(12,804)
(17,392)
—
959,200
3,331,102
3,348,494
—
(2,712,190)
—
959,465
$
959,200
$ 3,331,102
Supplemental cash flow disclosures:
* * *
Cash paid for interest
................................................................................ $
146,341
$
99,740
$
159,460
Cash paid for income taxes .......................................................................
22,853
15,178
5,586
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities:
Net assets related to the initial consolidation of funds ................................ $
296,971
$
34,095
$
—
Please see accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
136
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Unitholders’ Capital
(in thousands)
Unitholders' capital as of December 31, 2014 ...................................................................................
43,764
109,089
$
536,431
$
11,378
$
(1,070)
$
1,265,961
$
27,430
$
1,840,130
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Class A Units
Class B Units
Paid-in Capital
Retained
Earnings
(Accumulated
Deficit)
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Non-controlling
Interests in
Consolidated
Subsidiaries
Non-controlling
Interests in
Consolidated
Funds
Total Unitholders’
Capital
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2015:
Issuance of units .....................................................................................................................
Cancellation of units associated with forfeitures ......................................................................
Cancellation of units ................................................................................................................
Repurchase and cancellation of units ......................................................................................
Deferred tax effect resulting from the purchase of OCGH units ...............................................
Capital contributions
...............................................................................................................
Equity reallocation between controlling and non-controlling interests ......................................
Capital increase related to equity-based compensation ...........................................................
Distributions declared .............................................................................................................
Net income ..............................................................................................................................
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax .................................................................
Unrealized gain on interest-rate swap designated as cash-flow hedge, net of tax ...................
Unitholders' capital as of December 31, 2015 ...................................................................................
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2016:
Cumulative-effect adjustment from adoption of accounting guidance ......................................
Issuance of units .....................................................................................................................
Cancellation of units associated with forfeitures ......................................................................
Cancellation of units ................................................................................................................
Repurchase and cancellation of units ......................................................................................
Deferred tax effect resulting from the purchase of OCGH units ...............................................
Equity reallocation between controlling and non-controlling interests ......................................
Capital increase related to equity-based compensation ...........................................................
Distributions declared .............................................................................................................
Net income ..............................................................................................................................
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax .................................................................
Unrealized gain on interest-rate swap designated as cash-flow hedge, net of tax ...................
Unitholders’ capital as of December 31, 2016 ...................................................................................
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2017:
Cumulative-effect adjustment from adoption of accounting guidance ......................................
Issuance of units .....................................................................................................................
Cancellation of units associated with forfeitures ......................................................................
Cancellation of units ................................................................................................................
Change in deferred taxes resulting from increase in Class A ownership percentage ...............
Repurchase and cancellation of units ......................................................................................
Equity reallocation between controlling and non-controlling interests ......................................
Capital increase related to equity-based compensation ...........................................................
Distributions declared .............................................................................................................
Net income ..............................................................................................................................
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax .................................................................
Unrealized gain on interest-rate swap designated as cash-flow hedge, net of tax ...................
Unitholders’ capital as of December 31, 2017 ...................................................................................
18,231
(25)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
61,970
—
1,420
(108)
—
(250)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
63,032
—
2,507
(21)
—
—
(208)
—
—
—
—
—
—
65,310
1,338
(135)
(13,622)
(4,732)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
91,938
—
630
(207)
(589)
(14)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
91,758
—
524
—
(1,221)
—
(85)
—
—
—
—
—
—
90,976
$
237,820
—
—
(237,820)
16,606
—
181,539
16,983
(16,393)
—
—
—
735,166
(12,912)
—
—
—
(12,200)
745
14,388
25,781
(1,350)
—
—
—
749,618
(352)
—
—
—
475
(9,073)
23,151
24,594
—
—
—
—
788,413
$
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(82,727)
71,349
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(140,211)
194,705
—
—
54,494
352
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(206,212)
231,494
—
—
80,128
$
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(621)
475
(1,216)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2,666
343
1,793
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(1,374)
24
443
$
—
—
—
(4,926)
—
4,000
(181,539)
35,779
(280,027)
205,372
(1,589)
899
1,043,930
(109,709)
—
—
—
(564)
—
(14,388)
37,946
(259,790)
348,477
3,913
504
1,050,319
—
—
—
—
—
(3,244)
(23,151)
35,126
(360,618)
424,784
(2,015)
36
1,121,237
$
—
—
—
—
—
2,880
—
—
(2,952)
2,856
—
—
30,214
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(3,200)
1,933
—
—
28,947
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(2,223)
3,672
—
—
30,396
$
237,820
—
—
(242,746)
16,606
6,880
—
52,762
(382,099)
279,577
(2,210)
1,374
1,808,094
(122,621)
—
—
—
(12,764)
745
—
63,727
(404,551)
545,115
6,579
847
1,885,171
—
—
—
—
475
(12,317)
—
59,720
(569,053)
659,950
(3,389)
60
2,020,617
Please see accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
137
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
1. ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC (together with its subsidiaries, “Oaktree” or the “Company”) is a leader among
global investment managers specializing in alternative investments. Oaktree emphasizes an opportunistic, value-
oriented and risk-controlled approach to investments in distressed debt, corporate debt (including high yield debt
and senior loans), control investing, convertible securities, real estate and listed equities. Funds managed by
Oaktree (the “Oaktree funds”) include commingled funds, separate accounts, collateralized loan obligation vehicles
(“CLOs”) and publicly-traded business development companies (“BDCs”). Commingled funds include open-end and
closed-end limited partnerships in which the Company makes an investment and for which it serves as the general
partner. CLOs are structured finance vehicles in which the Company typically makes an investment and for which it
serves as collateral manager.
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC is a Delaware limited liability company that was formed on April 13, 2007. The
Company is owned by its Class A and Class B unitholders. Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC acts as the
Company’s manager and is the general partner of Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. (“OCGH”), which owns
100% of the Company’s outstanding Class B units. OCGH is owned by the Company’s senior executives, current
and former employees, and certain other investors (collectively, the “OCGH unitholders”). The Company’s
operations are conducted through a group of operating entities collectively referred to as the “Oaktree Operating
Group.” OCGH has a direct economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group and the Company has an indirect
economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group. The interests in the Oaktree Operating Group are referred to as
the “Oaktree Operating Group units.” An Oaktree Operating Group unit is not a separate legal interest but
represents one limited partnership interest in each of the Oaktree Operating Group entities. Class A units are
entitled to one vote per unit. Class B units are entitled to ten votes per unit and do not represent an economic
interest in the Company. The number of Class B units held by OCGH increases or decreases in response to
corresponding changes in OCGH’s economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group; consequently, the OCGH
unitholders’ economic interest in the Oaktree Operating Group is reflected within non-controlling interests in
consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The consolidated financial statements include the
accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned or majority-owned subsidiaries and entities in which the Company is
deemed to have a direct or indirect controlling financial interest based on either a variable interest model or voting
interest model. Certain of the Oaktree funds consolidated by the Company are investment companies that follow a
specialized basis of accounting established by GAAP. All intercompany transactions and balances have been
eliminated in consolidation.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires the Company to
make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the
consolidated financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of income and expenses during the period then
ended. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Accounting Policies of the Company
Consolidation
The Company adopted the new consolidation guidance on January 1, 2016 on a modified retrospective
basis. As a result, prior periods were not recast. There was no impact on retained earnings or net income
attributable to the Company. Under the new consolidation guidance, the Company consolidates entities in which it
has a direct or indirect controlling financial interest based on either a variable interest model or voting interest
model. A limited partnership or similar entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) if the unaffiliated limited partners do
not have substantive kick-out or participating rights. Most of the Oaktree funds are VIEs because they have not
138
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
granted unaffiliated limited partners substantive kick-out or participating rights. The Company consolidates those
VIEs in which it is the primary beneficiary. An entity is deemed to be the primary beneficiary if it holds a controlling
financial interest. A controlling financial interest is defined as (a) the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most
significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (b) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity or the
right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The consolidation guidance
requires an analysis to determine (a) whether an entity in which the Company holds a variable interest is a VIE and
(b) whether the Company’s involvement, through holding interests directly or indirectly in the entity or contractually
through other variable interests (e.g., management and performance-based fees), would give it a controlling
financial interest. A decision maker’s fee arrangement is not considered a variable interest if (a) it is compensation
for services provided, commensurate with the level of effort required to provide those services, and part of a
compensation arrangement that includes only terms, conditions or amounts that are customarily present in
arrangements for similar services negotiated at arm’s length (“at-market”), and (b) the decision maker does not hold
any other variable interests that absorb more than an insignificant amount of the potential VIE’s expected residual
returns.
The Company determines whether it is the primary beneficiary of a VIE at the time it becomes involved with
a VIE and reconsiders that conclusion at each reporting date. In evaluating whether the Company is the primary
beneficiary, the Company evaluates its economic interests in the entity held either directly by the Company or
indirectly through related parties. The consolidation analysis can generally be performed qualitatively; however, if it
is not readily apparent that the Company is not the primary beneficiary, a quantitative analysis may also be
performed. Investments and redemptions (either by the Company, affiliates of the Company or third parties) or
amendments to the governing documents of the respective Oaktree funds could affect an entity’s status as a VIE or
the determination of the primary beneficiary. The Company does not consolidate most of the Oaktree funds
because it is not the primary beneficiary of those funds due to the fact that its fee arrangements are considered at-
market and thus not deemed to be variable interests, and it does not hold any other interests in those funds that are
considered to be more than insignificant. Please see note 4 for more information regarding both consolidated and
unconsolidated VIEs. For entities that are not VIEs, consolidation is evaluated through a majority voting interest
model.
“Consolidated funds” refers to Oaktree-managed funds and CLOs that the Company is required to
consolidate. When funds or CLOs are consolidated, the Company reflects the assets, liabilities, revenues,
expenses and cash flows of the funds or CLOs on a gross basis, and the majority of the economic interests in those
funds or CLOs, which are held by third-party investors, are reflected as non-controlling interests in consolidated
funds or debt obligations of CLOs in the consolidated financial statements. All of the revenues earned by the
Company as investment manager of the consolidated funds are eliminated in consolidation. However, because the
eliminated amounts are earned from and funded by third-party investors, the consolidation of a fund does not
impact net income or loss attributable to the Company.
Certain entities in which the Company has the ability to exert significant influence, including unconsolidated
Oaktree funds for which the Company acts as general partner, are accounted for under the equity method of
accounting.
Non-controlling Redeemable Interests in Consolidated Funds
The Company records non-controlling interests to reflect the economic interests of the unaffiliated limited
partners. These interests are presented as non-controlling redeemable interests in consolidated funds within the
consolidated statements of financial condition, outside of the permanent capital section. Limited partners in open-
end and evergreen funds generally have the right to withdraw their capital, subject to the terms of the respective
limited partnership agreements, over periods ranging from one month to three years. While limited partners in
consolidated closed-end funds generally have not been granted redemption rights, these limited partners do have
withdrawal or redemption rights in certain limited circumstances that are beyond the control of the Company, such
as instances in which retaining the limited partnership interest could cause the limited partner to violate a law,
regulation or rule.
The allocation of net income or loss to non-controlling redeemable interests in consolidated funds is based
on the relative ownership interests of the unaffiliated limited partners after the consideration of contractual
arrangements that govern allocations of income or loss. At the consolidated level, potential incentives are allocated
139
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
to non-controlling redeemable interests in consolidated funds until such incentives become allocable to the
Company under the substantive contractual terms of the limited partnership agreements of the funds.
Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Funds
Non-controlling interests in consolidated funds represent the equity interests held by third-party investors in
CLOs that had not yet priced as of the respective period end. All non-controlling interests in those CLOs are
attributed a share of income or loss arising from the respective CLO based on the relative ownership interests of
third-party investors after consideration of contractual arrangements that govern allocations of income or loss.
Investors in those CLOs are generally unable to redeem their interests until the respective CLO liquidates, is called
or otherwise terminates.
Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries
Non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries reflect the portion of unitholders’ capital attributable to
OCGH unitholders (“OCGH non-controlling interest”), related parties and third parties. All non-controlling interests
in consolidated subsidiaries are attributed a share of income or loss in the respective consolidated subsidiary based
on the relative economic interests of the OCGH unitholders, related parties or third parties after consideration of
contractual arrangements that govern allocations of income or loss. Please see note 12 for more information.
Acquisitions
The Company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, which
requires the use of estimates and judgment to measure the fair value of identifiable tangible and intangible assets
acquired, liabilities assumed, and non-controlling interests in the acquiree as of the acquisition date. Contingent
consideration that is determined to be part of the business combination is recognized at fair value as of the
acquisition date and is included in the purchase price. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.
Transactions that do not meet the definition of a business are accounted for as asset acquisitions. The cost
of an asset acquisition is allocated to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a relative fair value
basis. Transaction costs are included in the cost of the acquisition and no goodwill is recognized.
Goodwill and Intangibles
Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable net assets of acquired businesses.
Goodwill has an indefinite useful life and is not amortized, but instead is tested for impairment annually in the fourth
quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently when events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have
occurred.
The Company’s acquired identifiable intangible assets primarily relate to contractual rights to earn future
management fees and incentive income. Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful
lives, which range from seven to 25 years, and are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances
indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
GAAP establishes a hierarchical disclosure framework that prioritizes the inputs used in measuring financial
instruments at fair value into three levels based on their market observability. Market price observability is affected
by a number of factors, such as the type of instrument and the characteristics specific to the instrument. Financial
instruments with readily available quoted prices from an active market or for which fair value can be measured
based on actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of market price observability and a lesser
degree of judgment inherent in measuring fair value.
Financial assets and liabilities measured and reported at fair value are classified as follows:
•
Level I – Quoted unadjusted prices for identical instruments in active markets to which the Company
has access at the date of measurement. The types of investments in Level I include exchange-traded
equities, debt and derivatives with quoted prices.
140
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
•
•
Level II – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar
instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs
are directly or indirectly observable. Level II inputs include interest rates, yield curves, volatilities,
prepayment risks, loss severities, credit risks and default rates. The types of investments in Level II
generally include corporate bonds and loans, government and agency securities, less liquid and
restricted equity investments, over-the-counter traded derivatives, debt obligations of consolidated
CLOs, and other investments where the fair value is based on observable inputs.
Level III – Valuations for which one or more significant inputs are unobservable. These inputs reflect
the Company’s assessment of the assumptions that market participants use to value the investment
based on the best available information. Level III inputs include prices of quoted securities in markets
for which there are few transactions, less public information exists or prices vary among brokered
market makers. The types of investments in Level III include non-publicly traded equity, debt, real
estate and derivatives.
In some instances, the inputs used to value an instrument may fall into multiple levels of the fair-value
hierarchy. In such instances, the instrument’s level within the fair-value hierarchy is based on the lowest of the
three levels (with Level III being the lowest) that is significant to the fair-value measurement. The Company’s
assessment of the significance of an input requires judgment and considers factors specific to the instrument.
Transfers of assets into or out of each fair value hierarchy level as a result of changes in the observability of the
inputs used in measuring fair value are accounted for as of the beginning of the reporting period. Transfers
resulting from a specific event, such as a reorganization or restructuring, are accounted for as of the date of the
event that caused the transfer.
In the absence of observable market prices, the Company values Level III investments using valuation
methodologies applied on a consistent basis. The quarterly valuation process for Level III investments begins with
each portfolio company, property or security being valued by the investment and/or valuation teams. With the
exception of open-end funds, all unquoted Level III investment values are reviewed and approved by (i) the
Company’s valuation officer, who is independent of the investment teams, (ii) a designated investment professional
of each strategy and (iii) for a substantial majority of unquoted Level III holdings as measured by market value, a
valuation committee of the respective strategy. For open-end funds, unquoted Level III investment values are
reviewed and approved by the Company’s valuation officer. For certain investments, the valuation process also
includes a review by independent valuation parties, at least annually, to determine whether the fair values
determined by management are reasonable. Results of the valuation process are evaluated each quarter, including
an assessment of whether the underlying calculations should be adjusted or recalibrated. In connection with this
process, the Company periodically evaluates changes in fair-value measurements for reasonableness, considering
items such as industry trends, general economic and market conditions, and factors specific to the investment.
Certain assets are valued using prices obtained from pricing vendors or brokers. The Company seeks to
obtain prices from at least two pricing vendors for the subject or similar securities. In cases where vendor pricing is
not reflective of fair value, a secondary vendor is unavailable, or no vendor pricing is available, a comparison value
made up of quotes for the subject or similar securities received from broker dealers may be used. These
investments may be classified as Level III because the quoted prices may be indicative in nature for securities that
are in an inactive market, may be for similar securities, or may require adjustment for investment-specific factors or
restrictions. The Company evaluates the prices obtained from brokers or pricing vendors based on available market
information, including trading activity of the subject or similar securities, or by performing a comparable security
analysis to ensure that fair values are reasonably estimated. The Company also performs back-testing of valuation
information obtained from pricing vendors and brokers against actual prices received in transactions. In addition to
ongoing monitoring and back-testing, the Company performs due diligence procedures surrounding pricing vendors
to understand their methodology and controls to support their use in the valuation process.
Fair Value Option
The Company has elected the fair value option for certain corporate investments that otherwise would not
have reflected unrealized gains and losses in current-period earnings. Such election is irrevocable and is applied
on an investment-by-investment basis at initial recognition. Unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in
fair value are reflected as a component of investment income in the consolidated statements of operations. The
141
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Company’s accounting for these investments is similar to its accounting for investments held by the consolidated
funds at fair value and the valuation methods are consistent with those used to determine the fair value of the
consolidated funds’ investments.
The Company has elected the fair value option for the financial assets and financial liabilities of its
consolidated CLOs. The assets and liabilities of CLOs are primarily reflected within the investments, at fair value
and within the debt obligations of CLOs line items in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The
Company’s accounting for CLO assets is similar to its accounting for its funds with respect to both carrying
investments held by CLOs at fair value and the valuation methods used to determine the fair value of those
investments. The fair value of CLO liabilities are measured as the fair value of CLO assets less the sum of (a) the
fair value of any beneficial interests held by the Company and (b) the carrying value of any beneficial interests that
represent compensation for services. Realized gains or losses and changes in the fair value of CLO assets,
respectively, are included in net realized gain on consolidated funds’ investments and net change in unrealized
appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in the consolidated statements of operations.
Interest income of CLOs is included in interest and dividend income, and interest expense and other expenses,
respectively, are included in interest expense and consolidated fund expenses in the consolidated statements of
operations. Changes in the fair value of a CLO’s financial liabilities in accordance with the CLO measurement
guidance are included in net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in
the consolidated statements of operations. Please see notes 6 and 10 for more information.
Foreign Currency
The assets and liabilities of Oaktree’s foreign subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currencies are
translated at exchange rates prevailing at the end of each reporting period. The results of foreign operations are
translated at the weighted average exchange rate for each reporting period. Translation adjustments are included
in other comprehensive income (loss) within the consolidated statements of financial condition until realized. Gains
and losses resulting from foreign-currency transactions are included in general and administrative expense.
Derivatives and Hedging
A derivative is a financial instrument whose value is derived from an underlying financial instrument or
index, such as interest rates, equity securities, currencies, commodities or credit spreads. Derivatives include
futures, forwards, swaps or option contracts, and other financial instruments with similar characteristics. Derivative
contracts often involve future commitments to exchange interest payment streams or currencies based on a
notional or contractual amount (e.g., interest-rate swaps, foreign-currency forwards or cross-currency swaps).
The Company enters into derivatives as part of its overall risk management strategy or to facilitate its
investment management activities. Risks associated with fluctuations in interest rates and foreign-currency
exchange rates in the normal course of business are addressed as part of the Company’s overall risk management
strategy that may result in the use of derivatives to economically hedge or reduce these exposures. From time to
time, the Company may enter into (a) foreign-currency option and forward contracts to reduce earnings and cash-
flow volatility associated with changes in foreign-currency exchange rates, and (b) interest-rate swaps to manage all
or a portion of the interest-rate risk associated with its variable-rate borrowings. As a result of the use of these or
other derivative contracts, the Company is exposed to the risk that counterparties will fail to fulfill their contractual
obligations. The Company attempts to mitigate this counterparty risk by entering into derivative contracts only with
major financial institutions that have investment-grade credit ratings. Counterparty credit risk is evaluated in
determining the fair value of derivatives.
The Company recognizes all derivatives as assets or liabilities in its consolidated statements of financial
condition at fair value. In connection with its derivative activities, the Company generally enters into agreements
subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that allow the Company to offset derivative assets and liabilities
in the same currency by specific derivative type or, in the event of default by the counterparty, to offset derivative
assets and liabilities with the same counterparty. While these derivatives are eligible to be offset in accordance with
applicable accounting guidance, the Company has elected to present derivative assets and liabilities based on
gross fair value in its consolidated statements of financial condition.
When the Company enters into a derivative contract, it may elect to designate the derivative as a hedging
instrument and apply hedge accounting as part of its overall risk management strategy. In other situations, when a
142
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
derivative does not qualify for hedge accounting or when the derivative and the hedged item are both recorded in
current-period earnings and thus deemed to be economic hedges, hedge accounting is not applied. Freestanding
derivatives are financial instruments that we enter into as part of our overall risk management strategy but do not
utilize hedge accounting. These financial instruments may include foreign-currency exchange contracts, interest-
rate swaps and other derivative contracts.
Derivatives that are designated as hedging instruments are classified as either a hedge of (a) a recognized
asset or liability (“fair-value hedge”), (b) a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or
paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash-flow hedge”), or (c) a net investment in a foreign operation. For
a fair-value hedge, the Company records changes in the fair value of the derivative and, to the extent that it is highly
effective, changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability attributable to the hedged risk in current-period
earnings in the same caption in the consolidated statements of operations as the hedged item. Changes in the fair
value of a derivative that is highly effective and is designated and qualifies as a cash-flow hedge, to the extent that
the hedge is effective, are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until earnings are affected by the
variability of cash flows of the hedged transaction. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recorded in current-period
earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as hedging instruments that are caused by factors
other than changes in the risk being hedged are excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness and
recognized in current-period earnings. For freestanding derivatives, changes in fair value are recorded in current-
period earnings.
The Company formally documents at inception the hedge relationship, including identification of the hedging
instrument and the hedged item, as well as the risk management objectives, the strategy for undertaking the hedge
transaction, and the evaluation of effectiveness of the hedged transaction. On a quarterly basis, the Company
formally assesses whether the derivative it designated in each hedging relationship has been and is expected to
remain highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flow of the hedged items. If it is
determined that a derivative is not highly effective at hedging the designated exposure, hedge accounting is
discontinued and the balance remaining in other comprehensive income (loss) is released to earnings.
Cash and Cash-equivalents
Cash and cash-equivalents include demand deposit accounts, money market funds and short-term
investments with maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition.
U.S. Treasury and Other Securities
U.S. Treasury and other securities include holdings of U.S. Treasury bills, time deposit securities and
commercial paper with maturities greater than three months at the date of acquisition. These securities are
classified as available-for-sale and recorded at fair value with changes in fair value included in other comprehensive
income (loss). Changes in fair value were not material for all years presented.
Corporate Investments
Corporate investments consist of investments in funds and companies in which the Company does not have
a controlling financial interest. Investments for which the Company is deemed to exert significant influence are
accounted for under the equity method of accounting and reflect Oaktree’s ownership interest in each fund or
company. In the case of investments for which the Company is not deemed to exert significant influence or control,
the fair value option of accounting has been elected. Investment income represents the Company’s pro-rata share
of income or loss from these funds or companies, or the change in fair value of the investment, as applicable.
Oaktree’s general partnership interests are substantially illiquid. While investments in funds reflect each respective
fund’s holdings at fair value, equity-method investments in DoubleLine Capital LP and its affiliates (collectively,
“DoubleLine”) and other companies are not adjusted to reflect the fair value of the underlying company. The fair
value of the underlying investments in Oaktree funds is based on the Company’s assessment, which takes into
account expected cash flows, earnings multiples and/or comparisons to similar market transactions, among other
factors. Valuation adjustments reflecting consideration of credit quality, concentration risk, sales restrictions and
other liquidity factors are integral to valuing these instruments.
143
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Management Fees
Management fees are recognized over the period in which the investment advisory services are performed.
The contractual terms of management fees generally vary by fund structure. For most closed-end funds, the
management fee rate is applied against committed capital during the fund’s investment period and the lesser of total
funded capital or cost basis of assets in the liquidation period. However, for certain closed-end funds, management
fees during the investment period are calculated based on drawn capital or cost basis. Additionally, for those
closed-end funds for which management fees are based on committed capital, the Company may elect to delay the
start of the fund’s investment period and thus its full management fees, in which case it earns management fees
based on drawn capital, and in certain cases outstanding borrowings under a fund-level credit facility made in lieu of
drawing capital, until the Company elects to start the fund’s investment period. The Company’s right to receive
management fees typically ends after 10 or 11 years from either the initial closing date or the start of the investment
period, even if assets remain in the fund. In the case of CLOs, the management fee is based on the aggregate par
value of collateral assets and principal cash, as defined in the applicable CLO indentures, and a portion of the
management fees is dependent on the sufficiency of the particular vehicle’s cash flow. For open-end and evergreen
funds, the management fee is generally based on the NAV of the fund. For the publicly-traded BDCs, the
management fee is based on gross assets (including assets acquired with leverage), net of cash.
In the case of certain open-end fund accounts, the Company has the potential to earn performance-based
fees, typically in reference to a relevant benchmark index or hurdle rate, which are classified as management fees.
Management fees also include the quarterly incentive fees on investment income the Company earns from its
publicly-traded BDCs and certain evergreen fund accounts, which are recurring in nature.
The Company does not recognize incremental income for transaction, advisory, director and other ancillary
fees received in connection with providing services to portfolio companies or potential investees of the funds; rather,
any such fees are offset against management fees earned from the applicable fund. These fees are typically
recognized as revenue in the period in which they are offset against the quarterly management fees that would
otherwise be paid by the applicable fund, which is generally the quarter following the period in which the fees are
received. Ancillary fees recognized in management fees for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
were $29.7 million, $32.5 million and $26.6 million, respectively.
Incentive Income
Incentive income generally represents 20% of each closed-end fund’s profits, subject to the return of
contributed capital and a preferred return of typically 8% per annum, and up to 20% of certain evergreen fund’s
annual profits, subject to high-water marks or hurdle rates. The Company has elected to adopt “Method 1” for
revenue recognition based on a formula. Under this method, incentive income is recognized when fixed or
determinable, all related contingencies have been removed and collection is reasonably assured, which generally
occurs in the quarter of, or the quarter immediately prior to, the distribution of the income by the fund to Oaktree.
The Method 1 criteria for revenue recognition is typically met (a) for closed-end funds, only after all contributed
capital and the preferred return on that capital have been distributed to the fund’s investors, and (b) for certain
evergreen funds, at the conclusion of each annual measurement period. Incentives received by Oaktree before the
above criteria have been met are deferred and recorded as a deferred incentive income liability within accounts
payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition. As of
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, there was $20.6 million and $16.8 million of deferred incentive income.
The Company may receive tax distributions related to taxable income allocated by funds, which are treated as an
advance of incentive income and subject to the same recognition criteria. Tax distributions are contractually not
subject to clawback. Please see “Recent Accounting Developments” below for a discussion on the impact of the
new revenue recognition standard on the consolidated financial statements upon adoption on January 1, 2018.
Incentive Income Compensation
Incentive income compensation expense primarily reflects compensation directly related to incentive
income, which generally consists of percentage interests (sometimes referred to as “points”) that the Company
grants to its investment professionals associated with the particular fund that generated the incentive income, and
secondarily, compensation directly related to investment income. The Company has an obligation to pay a fixed
percentage of the incentive income earned from a particular fund, including income from consolidated funds that is
eliminated in consolidation, to specified investment professionals responsible for the management of the fund.
144
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Amounts payable pursuant to these arrangements are recorded as compensation expense when they have become
probable and reasonably estimable. The Company’s determination of the point at which it becomes probable and
reasonably estimable that incentive income compensation expense should be recorded is based on its assessment
of numerous factors, particularly those related to the profitability, realizations, distribution status, investment profile
and commitments or contingencies of the individual funds that may give rise to incentive income. Incentive income
compensation is expensed no later than the period in which the underlying income is recognized. Payment of
incentive income compensation generally occurs in the same period the related income is received or in the next
period. Participation in incentive income generated by the funds is subject to forfeiture upon departure and to
vesting provisions (generally over a period of five years), in each case, under certain circumstances set forth in the
applicable governing documents. These provisions are generally only applicable to incentive income compensation
that has not yet been recognized as an expense by the Company or paid to the participant.
Equity-based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense reflects the non-cash charge associated with grants of Class A units,
OCGH units, OCGH equity value units (“EVUs”) and deferred equity units, and is calculated based on the grant-
date fair value of the unit award. A contemporaneous valuation report is utilized in determining fair value at the date
of grant for OCGH unit awards. Each valuation report is based on the market price of Oaktree’s Class A units as
well as other pertinent factors. A discount is then applied to the Class A unit market price to reflect the lack of
marketability for equity-classified awards, if applicable. The determination of an appropriate discount for lack of
marketability is based on a review of discounts on the sale of restricted shares of publicly-traded companies and
multi-period put-based quantitative methods. Factors that influence the size of the discount for lack of marketability
applicable to OCGH units include (a) the estimated time it would take for an OCGH unitholder to exchange units
into Class A units, (b) the volatility of the Company’s business and (c) thin trading of the Class A units. Each of
these factors is subject to significant judgment. Equity-based awards that do not require future service (i.e., awards
vested at grant) are expensed immediately. Equity-based awards that require future service are expensed on a
straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Cash-settled equity-based awards are classified as liabilities
and are remeasured at the end of each reporting period.
In the first quarter of 2017, the Company adopted the new accounting guidance related to share-based
payment awards. With respect to forfeitures, the Company adopted the guidance on a modified retrospective basis
and made an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures when they occur. Accordingly, no forfeitures have
been assumed in the calculation of compensation expense effective January 1, 2017. Prior to adoption, the
calculation of compensation expense assumed a forfeiture rate of up to 3.0% annually, based on expected
employee turnover, and was revised annually or more frequently, as necessary, to adjust for actual forfeitures and to
reflect expense only for those units that ultimately vest.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense includes costs associated with the purchase of furniture and
equipment, capitalized software, leasehold improvements, company-owned aircraft and acquired intangibles.
Furniture and equipment and capitalized software costs are depreciated using the straight-line method over the
estimated useful life of the asset, generally three to five years beginning in the first full month after the asset is
placed in service. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the
respective estimated useful life or the lease term. Company-owned aircraft are depreciated using the straight-line
method over their estimated useful life. Acquired intangibles primarily relate to contractual rights and are amortized
over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis, which range from seven to 25 years.
Other Income (Expense), Net
Other income (expense), net represents non-operating income or expense, including income related to
amounts received from a legacy Highstar fund for contractually reimbursable costs in connection with the 2014
acquisition of the Highstar Capital team and certain Highstar entities (collectively “Highstar”). The legacy Highstar
fund stopped paying management fees in the fourth quarter of 2017. As a result, the Company will no longer be
receiving such income. In addition, in 2017, other income (expense), net included $145.1 million of income related
to the remeasurement of the Company’s tax receivable agreement liability in connection with the Tax Cuts and Jobs
Act (the “Tax Act”) and a $22.0 million make-whole premium expense related to the early repayment of the
145
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Company’s $250.0 million 6.75% senior notes due 2019. Please see notes 10 and 15 for more information on the
debt repayment and Tax Act, respectively.
Income Taxes
Oaktree is a publicly traded partnership. Because it satisfies the qualifying income test, it is not required to
be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal and state income tax purposes; rather it is taxed as a partnership.
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc., two of the Company’s Intermediate Holding Companies and
wholly-owned corporate subsidiaries, are subject to U.S. federal and state income taxes. The remainder of
Oaktree’s income is generally not subject to U.S. corporate-level taxation.
The Company’s effective tax rate is dependent on many factors, including the estimated nature of many
amounts and the mix of revenues and expenses between the two corporate subsidiaries that are subject to income
tax and the three other subsidiaries that are not; consequently, the effective tax rate is subject to significant variation
from period to period. The Company’s non-U.S. income or loss before taxes is generally not significant in relation to
total pre-tax income or loss and is generally more predictable because, unlike U.S. pre-tax income, it is not
significantly impacted by unrealized gains or losses. Non-U.S. tax expense typically represents a disproportionately
large percentage of total income tax expense because nearly all of the Company’s non-U.S. income or loss is
subject to corporate-level income tax, whereas a substantial portion of the Company’s U.S.-based income or loss is
not subject to corporate-level taxes. In addition, changes in the proportion of non-U.S. pre-tax income to total pre-
tax income impact the Company’s effective tax rate to the extent non-U.S. rates differ from the combined U.S.
federal and state tax rate.
Income taxes are accounted for using the liability method of accounting. Under this method, deferred tax
assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of differences between the carrying
amount of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, using currently enacted tax rates. The effect on
deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period when the change is
enacted. Deferred tax assets would be reduced by a valuation allowance if it becomes more likely than not that
some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Oaktree analyzes its tax filing positions for all open tax years in all of the U.S. federal, state, local and
foreign tax jurisdictions where it is required to file income tax returns. If the Company determines that uncertainties
in tax positions exist, a reserve is established. Oaktree recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to
uncertain tax positions within income tax expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
Tax laws are complex and subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and respective governmental
taxing authorities. Significant judgment is required in determining tax expense and in evaluating tax positions,
including evaluating uncertainties under GAAP. Oaktree reviews its tax positions quarterly and adjusts its tax
balances as new information becomes available.
The Oaktree funds are generally not subject to U.S. federal and state income taxes and, consequently, no
income tax provision has been made in the accompanying consolidated financial statements because individual
partners are responsible for their proportionate share of the taxable income.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other gains and losses affecting
unitholders’ capital that, under GAAP, are excluded from net income (loss). Other gains and losses result from
unrealized gains and losses on cash-flow hedges and foreign-currency translation adjustments, net of tax.
Accounting Policies of Consolidated Funds
Investment Transactions and Income Recognition
The consolidated funds record investment transactions at cost on trade date for publicly-traded securities or
when they have an enforceable right to acquire the security, which is generally on the closing date if not publicly
traded. Realized gains and losses on investments are recorded on a specific-identification basis. The consolidated
funds record dividend income on the ex-dividend date and interest income on an accrual basis, unless the related
investment is in default or if collection of the income is otherwise considered doubtful. The consolidated funds may
146
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
hold investments that provide for interest payable in-kind rather than in cash, in which case the related income is
recorded at its estimated net realizable amount.
Income Taxes
The consolidated funds may invest in operating entities that are treated as partnerships for U.S. federal
income tax purposes which may give rise to unrelated business taxable income or income effectively connected
with a U.S. trade or business. In such situations, the consolidated funds permit certain investors to elect to
participate in these investments through a “blocker structure” using entities that are treated as corporations for U.S.
federal income tax purposes and are generally subject to U.S. federal, state and local taxes. The consolidated
funds withhold blocker expenses and tax payments from electing limited partners, which are treated as deemed
distributions to such limited partners pursuant to the terms of the respective limited partnership agreement.
Foreign Currency
Investments denominated in non-U.S. currencies are recorded in the consolidated financial statements after
translation into U.S. dollars utilizing rates of exchange on the last business day of the period. Interest and dividend
income is recorded net of foreign withholding taxes and calculated using the exchange rate in effect when the
income is recognized. The effect of changes in exchange rates on assets and liabilities, income, and realized gains
or losses is included as part of net realized gain (loss) on consolidated funds’ investments and net change in
unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in the consolidated statements of
operations.
Cash and Cash-equivalents
Cash and cash-equivalents held at the consolidated funds represent cash that, although not legally
restricted, is not available to support the general liquidity needs of Oaktree as the use of such amounts is generally
limited to the investment activities of the consolidated funds. Cash-equivalents, a Level I valuation, include highly
liquid investments such as money market funds, whose carrying value approximates fair value due to its short-term
nature.
Receivable for Investments Sold
Receivables for investments sold by the consolidated funds are recorded at net realizable value. Changes
in net realizable value are reflected within net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated
funds’ investments and realizations are reflected within net realized gain on consolidated funds’ investments in the
consolidated statements of operations.
Investments, at Fair Value
The consolidated funds include investment limited partnerships and CLOs that reflect their investments,
including majority-owned and controlled investments, at fair value. The Company has retained the specialized
investment company accounting guidance under GAAP for investment limited partnerships with respect to
consolidated investments and has elected the fair value option for the financial assets of CLOs. Thus, the
consolidated investments are reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value, with
unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected as a component of net change in
unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in the consolidated statements of
operations. Fair value is the amount 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 (i.e., the exit price).
Non-publicly traded debt and equity securities and other securities or instruments for which reliable market
quotations are not available are valued by management using valuation methodologies applied on a consistent
basis. These securities may initially be valued at the acquisition price as the best indicator of fair value. The
Company reviews the significant unobservable inputs, valuations of comparable investments and other similar
transactions for investments valued at acquisition price to determine whether another valuation methodology should
be utilized. Subsequent valuations will depend on the facts and circumstances known as of the valuation date and
the application of valuation methodologies as further described below under “—Non-publicly Traded Equity and
Real Estate Investments.” The fair value may also be based on a pending transaction expected to close after the
valuation date.
147
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Exchange-traded Investments
Securities listed on one or more national securities exchanges are valued at their last reported sales price
on the date of valuation. If no sale occurred on the valuation date, the security is valued at the mean of the last
“bid” and “ask” prices on the valuation date. Securities that are not readily marketable due to legal restrictions that
may limit or restrict transferability are generally valued at a discount from quoted market prices. The discount would
reflect the amount market participants would require due to the risk relating to the inability to access a public market
for the security for the specified period and would vary depending on the nature and duration of the restriction and
the perceived risk and volatility of the underlying securities. Securities with longer duration restrictions or higher
volatility are generally valued at a higher discount. Such discounts are generally estimated based on put option
models or an analysis of market studies. Instances where the Company has applied discounts to quoted prices of
restricted listed securities have been infrequent. The impact of such discounts is not material to the Company’s
consolidated statements of financial condition and results of operations for all periods presented.
Credit-oriented Investments (including Real Estate Loan Portfolios)
Investments in corporate and government debt which are not listed or admitted to trading on any securities
exchange are valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices on the valuation date based on quotations supplied
by recognized quotation services or by reputable broker-dealers.
The market-yield approach is considered in the valuation of non-publicly traded debt securities, utilizing
expected future cash flows and discounted using estimated current market rates. Discounted cash-flow calculations
may be adjusted to reflect current market conditions and/or the perceived credit risk of the borrower. Consideration
is also given to a borrower’s ability to meet principal and interest obligations; this may include an evaluation of
collateral and/or the underlying value of the borrower utilizing techniques described below under “—Non-publicly
Traded Equity and Real Estate Investments.”
Non-publicly Traded Equity and Real Estate Investments
The fair value of equity and real estate investments is determined using a cost, market or income approach.
The cost approach is based on the current cost of reproducing a real estate investment less deterioration and
functional and economic obsolescence. The market approach utilizes valuations of comparable public companies
and transactions, and generally seeks to establish the enterprise value of the portfolio company or investment
property using a market-multiple methodology. This approach takes into account the financial measure (such as
EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, net operating income, net income, book value or net asset value)
believed to be most relevant for the given company or investment property. Consideration also may be given to
factors such as acquisition price of the security or investment property, historical and projected operational and
financial results for the portfolio company, the strengths and weaknesses of the portfolio company or investment
property relative to its comparable companies or properties, industry trends, general economic and market
conditions, and others deemed relevant. The income approach is typically a discounted cash-flow method that
incorporates expected timing and level of cash flows. It incorporates assumptions in determining growth rates,
income and expense projections, discount and capitalization rates, capital structure, terminal values, and other
factors. The applicability and weight assigned to market and income approaches are determined based on the
availability of reliable projections and comparable companies and transactions.
The valuation of securities may be impacted by expectations of investors’ receptiveness to a public offering
of the securities, the size of the holding of the securities and any associated control, information with respect to
transactions or offers for the securities (including the transaction pursuant to which the investment was made and
the elapsed time from the date of the investment to the valuation date), and applicable restrictions on the
transferability of the securities.
These valuation methodologies involve a significant degree of management judgment. Accordingly,
valuations by the Company do not necessarily represent the amounts that eventually may be realized from sales or
other dispositions of investments. Fair values may differ from the values that would have been used had a ready
market for the investment existed, and the differences could be material to the consolidated financial statements.
148
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Securities Sold Short
Securities sold short represent obligations of the consolidated funds to make a future delivery of a specific
security and, correspondingly, create an obligation to purchase the security at prevailing market prices (or deliver
the security, if owned by the consolidated funds) as of the delivery date. As a result, these short sales create the
risk that the funds’ obligations to satisfy the delivery requirement may exceed the amount recorded in the
accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition.
Securities sold short are recorded at fair value, with the resulting change in value reflected as a component
of net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on consolidated funds’ investments in the consolidated
statements of operations. When the securities are delivered, any gain or loss is included in net realized gain on
consolidated funds’ investments. The funds maintain cash deposits with prime brokers in order to cover their
obligations on short sales. These amounts are included in due from brokers in the consolidated statements of
financial condition.
Options
The purchase price of a call option or a put option is recorded as an investment, which is carried at fair
value. If a purchased option expires, a loss in the amount of the cost of the option is realized. When there is a
closing sale transaction, a gain or loss is realized if the proceeds are greater or less than, respectively, the cost of
the option. When a call option is exercised, the cost of the security purchased upon exercise is increased by the
premium originally paid.
When a consolidated fund writes an option, the premium received is recorded as a liability and is
subsequently adjusted to the current fair value of the option written. If a written option expires, a gain is realized in
the amount of the premium received. The difference between the premium and the amount paid on effecting a
closing purchase transaction, including brokerage commissions, is also treated as a realized gain or loss. The
writer of an option bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security underlying the written
option. Options written are included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the consolidated
statements of financial condition.
Total-return Swaps
A total-return swap is an agreement to exchange cash flows based on an underlying asset. Pursuant to
these agreements, a fund may deposit collateral with the counterparty and may pay a swap fee equal to a fixed
percentage of the value of the underlying security (notional amount). A fund earns interest on cash collateral held
on account with the counterparty and may be required to deposit additional collateral equal to the unrealized
appreciation or depreciation on the underlying asset. Changes in the value of the swaps, which are recorded as
unrealized gains or losses, are based on changes in the underlying value of the security. All amounts exchanged
with the swap counterparty representing capital appreciation or depreciation, dividend income and expense, items
of interest income on short proceeds, borrowing costs on short sales, and commissions are recorded as realized
gains or losses. Dividend income and expense on the underlying assets are accrued as unrealized gains or losses
on the ex-date.
Due From Brokers
Due from brokers represents cash owned by the consolidated funds and cash collateral on deposit with
brokers and counterparties that are used as collateral for the consolidated funds’ securities and swaps.
Risks and Uncertainties
Certain consolidated funds invest primarily in the securities of entities that are undergoing, or are
considered likely to undergo, reorganization, debt restructuring, liquidation or other extraordinary transactions.
Investments in such entities are considered speculative and involve substantial risk of principal loss. Certain of the
consolidated funds’ investments may also consist of securities that are thinly traded, securities and other assets for
which no market exists, and securities which are restricted as to their transferability. Additionally, investments are
subject to concentration and industry risks, reflecting numerous factors, including political, regulatory or economic
issues that could cause the investments and their markets to be relatively illiquid and their prices relatively volatile.
Investments denominated in non-U.S. currencies or involving non-U.S. domiciled entities are subject to risks and
149
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
special considerations not typically associated with U.S. investments. Such risks may include, but are not limited to,
investment and repatriation restrictions; currency exchange-rate fluctuations; adverse political, social and economic
developments; less liquidity; smaller capital markets; and certain local tax law considerations.
Credit risk is the potential loss that may be incurred from the failure of a counterparty or an issuer to make
payments according to the terms of a contract. Some consolidated funds are subject to additional credit risk due to
strategies of investing in debt of financially distressed issuers or derivatives, as well as involvement in privately-
negotiated structured notes and structured-credit transactions. Counterparties include custodian banks, major
brokerage houses and their affiliates. The Company monitors the creditworthiness of the financial institutions with
which it conducts business.
Bank debt has exposure to certain types of risk, including interest rate, market, and the potential non-
payment of principal and interest as a result of default or bankruptcy of the issuer. Loans are generally subject to
prepayment risk, which will affect the maturity of such loans. The consolidated funds may enter into bank debt
participation agreements through contractual relationships with a third-party intermediary, causing the consolidated
funds to assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the intermediary.
Certain consolidated funds may invest in real property and real estate-related investments, including
commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and real estate loans, that entail substantial inherent risks.
There can be no assurance that such investments will increase in value or that significant losses will not be
incurred. CMBS are subject to a number of risks, including credit, interest rate, prepayment and market. These
risks can be affected by a number of factors, including general economic conditions, particularly those in the area
where the related mortgaged properties are located, the level of the borrowers’ equity in the mortgaged properties,
and the relative timing and rate of delinquencies and prepayments of mortgage loans bearing a higher rate of
interest. Real estate loans include residential or commercial loans that are non-performing at the time of their
acquisition or that become non-performing following their acquisition. Non-performing real estate loans may require
a substantial amount of workout negotiations or restructuring, which may entail, among other things, a substantial
reduction in the interest rate and/or write-down of the principal balance. Moreover, foreclosure on collateral
securing one or more real estate loans held by the consolidated funds may be necessary, which may be lengthy and
expensive. Residential loans are typically subject to risks associated with the value of the underlying properties,
which may be affected by a number of factors including general economic conditions, mortgage qualification
standards, local market conditions such as employment levels, the supply of homes, and the safety, convenience
and attractiveness of the properties and neighborhoods. Commercial loans are typically subject to risks associated
with the ability of the borrower to repay, which may be impacted by general economic conditions, as well as
borrower-specific factors including the quality of management, the ability to generate sufficient income to make
scheduled principal and interest payments, or the ability to obtain alternative financing to repay the loan.
Certain consolidated funds hold over-the-counter derivatives that may allow counterparties to terminate
derivative contracts prior to maturity under certain circumstances, thereby resulting in an accelerated payment of
any net liability owed to the counterparty.
Recent Accounting Developments
In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance to simplify the
accounting for goodwill impairments by eliminating step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. This step currently
requires an entity to perform a hypothetical purchase price allocation to derive the implied fair value of goodwill.
Under the new guidance, an impairment loss is recognized if the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair
value. The impairment loss would equal the amount of that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill. All other
goodwill impairment guidance remains largely unchanged. Entities will continue to have the option to perform a
qualitative assessment to determine if a quantitative impairment test is necessary. The guidance is effective for the
Company in the first quarter of 2020 on a prospective basis, with early adoption permitted. The Company expects
that adoption of this guidance will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance that amends the definition of a business. The guidance
provides a framework to help determine whether a transaction involves an asset or a business. In general, if
substantially all of the gross assets acquired or disposed of are concentrated in a single identifiable asset or group
of similar identifiable assets, the transaction is deemed to not involve a business. This framework is expected to
reduce the number of transactions that an entity must further evaluate to determine whether they are business
150
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
combinations or asset acquisitions. The definition of a business may also affect other aspects of accounting, such
as goodwill impairment or consolidation. The Company adopted this guidance in the second quarter of 2017, with
no impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In October 2016, the FASB amended the consolidation guidance with respect to a single decision maker’s
evaluation of interests held through related parties that are under common control when it is determining whether it
is the primary beneficiary of a VIE. Under the guidance, a reporting entity considers its indirect economic interests
in a VIE held through related parties that are under common control on a proportionate basis, consistent with the
way it would evaluate its indirect economic interests held through related parties that are not under common control.
Previously, a reporting entity’s indirect economic interests in a VIE held through related parties that are under
common control were considered to be the equivalent of direct interests in their entirety. The Company adopted this
guidance in the first quarter of 2017, with no impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and payments in
the statement of cash flows. The amendments add to or clarify guidance on a number of cash flow issues, including
debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs, contingent consideration payments made after a business
combination, distributions received from equity-method investees and beneficial interests in securitization
transactions. The Company will adopt the guidance in the first quarter of 2018 on a retrospective basis. The
Company expects that adoption of this guidance will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial
statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued guidance that affects several aspects of accounting for employee share-
based payment awards. The amendments relate to the accounting for forfeitures, income taxes at settlement, the
classification of income taxes in the statement of cash flows and net settlements for withholding tax. The
amendment with respect to forfeitures allows an entity to make an accounting policy election either to estimate the
number of forfeitures expected to occur or to account for forfeitures when they occur. The amendments related to
income taxes require (a) all excess tax benefits and deficiencies related to share-based payment transactions to be
recognized through the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of operations and (b) excess tax
benefits related to share-based payment transactions to be presented as operating activities in the consolidated
statement of cash flows with employee taxes paid classified as a financing activity. The amendments related to net
settlements allow an employer to withhold shares upon settlement of an award to satisfy the employer’s tax
withholding requirement in an amount up to the employees’ maximum individual tax rate in the relevant jurisdiction
without resulting in liability classification of the award. The Company adopted the guidance in the first quarter of
2017. With respect to forfeitures, the Company made an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures when
they occur and to adopt the guidance on a modified retrospective basis, which resulted in a $0.4 million increase to
retained earnings and a corresponding $0.4 million decrease to paid in capital. Amendments relating to income
taxes were adopted on a prospective basis. As a result, prior periods have not been recast. Amendments relating
to net settlements were adopted on a modified retrospective basis, with no impact to the consolidated financial
statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued guidance eliminating the requirement to retroactively apply the equity
method of accounting when a reporting entity obtains significant influence over an investment (e.g., due to an
increase in ownership) that previously had been accounted for under the cost basis or at fair value. Instead, the
reporting entity would be required to apply the equity method of accounting prospectively from the date significant
influence was obtained. The cost of the additional interest in the investee, if any, should be added to the current
basis of the investment. The amendment also provides guidance for available-for-sale investments that become
eligible for the equity method of accounting. In those cases, any unrealized gain or loss recorded within
accumulated other comprehensive income should be recognized in earnings as of the date the investment initially
qualifies for the use of the equity method. The Company adopted the guidance in the first quarter of 2017 on a
prospective basis, with no impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance that will require a lessee to recognize a lease asset and a
lease liability for most of its operating leases. Under current GAAP, operating leases are not recognized by a lessee
in its statements of financial position. In general, the new asset and liability will each equal the present value of
lease payments. The guidance does not significantly change the recognition, measurement and presentation of
expenses and cash flows arising from a lease by a lessee. The Company expects to adopt the guidance in the first
quarter of 2019 under the modified retrospective transition approach, which requires application of the new
151
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
guidance at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented. The Company does not expect that
adoption will have a material impact on the consolidated statements of operations because all of the Company’s
leases are currently classified as operating leases, which under the guidance will continue to be recognized as
expense on a straight-line basis. The adoption, however, will result in a significant gross-up in total assets and total
liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial position. As of December 31, 2017, the Company’s minimum
lease payments under lease obligations aggregated $157.8 million.
In January 2016, the FASB issued guidance that changes the classification and measurement of financial
instruments and amends certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial instruments. The
amendments revise the accounting related to (a) the classification and measurement of equity investments and (b)
the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. Specifically, the
guidance generally requires equity investments to be carried at fair value with changes flowing through net income.
This requirement does not apply to equity-method investments. For financial liabilities measured at fair value, the
guidance requires fair value changes attributable to instrument-specific credit risk to be presented separately in
other comprehensive income, as opposed to reflecting the entire fair-value change in net income. The guidance is
effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2019, with early adoption permitted. The Company expects that
adoption of this guidance will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance on revenue recognition that superseded most existing revenue
recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The guidance outlined a single comprehensive model
for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers, and provides a largely principles-
based framework for addressing revenue recognition issues on a comprehensive basis. Under the guidance,
revenue is recognized when an entity satisfies a performance obligation by transferring control of a promised good
or service to a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration for which the entity expects to be entitled for
that good or service. The guidance also requires qualitative and quantitative disclosures about revenue that has
been recognized and revenue that is expected to be recognized in the future from existing contracts, significant
judgments and changes in those judgments made by management in recognizing revenue, disaggregation of
revenue, and information about contract balances. The Company will adopt the guidance in the first quarter of 2018
on a modified retrospective basis. The most significant effect of the guidance for the Company relates to the
recognition of incentive income. The guidance requires the Company to recognize incentive income when it
concludes that it is probable that significant reversals of revenue will not occur in subsequent periods. Under
current GAAP, the amount of incentive income recognized by the Company is generally limited to the amount that is
not contingent on a future event. Upon adoption, the Company expects to record a cumulative-effect increase to
retained earnings by an estimated $48.7 million, net of tax, as of January 1, 2018, which relates to certain incentive
income that would have met the “probable that significant reversal will not occur” criteria. In addition, the Company
expects that certain reimbursements received from the investment funds it manages will be reported as revenues
on a gross basis, with an equal offset to expenses, resulting in no impact to net income.
3. ACQUISITIONS
On October 17, 2017, the Company completed a transaction in which it became the new investment adviser
to two business development companies (the “BDCs”): Oaktree Specialty Lending Corporation (NASDAQ: OCSL),
formerly known as Fifth Street Finance Corp. (NASDAQ: FSC), and Oaktree Strategic Income Corporation
(NASDAQ: OCSI), formerly known as Fifth Street Senior Floating Rate Corp. (NASDAQ: FSFR) (collectively, the
“BDC acquisition”). Upon the closing of the transaction (the “BDC acquisition”), the Company paid $320.0 million in
cash to Fifth Street Management LLC (“FSM”), net of certain transaction-related expenses, for all of FSM’s right,
title and interest in specified business records related to FSM’s then-existing investment advisory agreements with
each of FSC and FSFR. The transaction was accounted for as an asset acquisition. The net purchase price was
$319.4 million, consisting of the $320.0 million cash payment, net of certain transaction-related expenses and
reimbursements received from the seller. Of the purchase price, $319.4 million was allocated to finite-lived
contractual rights, $56.2 million to indemnification assets and $56.2 million to contingent liabilities.
152
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
4. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
The Company consolidates VIEs for which it is the primary beneficiary. VIEs include funds managed by
Oaktree and CLOs for which Oaktree acts as collateral manager. The purpose of these VIEs is to provide
investment opportunities for investors in exchange for management fees and, in certain cases, performance-based
fees. While the investment strategies of the funds and CLOs differ by product, in general the fundamental risks of
the funds and CLOs have similar characteristics, including loss of invested capital and reduction or absence of
management and performance-based fees. As general partner or collateral manager, respectively, Oaktree
generally considers itself the sponsor of the applicable fund or CLO. The Company does not provide performance
guarantees and, other than capital commitments, has no financial obligation to provide funding to VIEs.
Consolidated VIEs
As of December 31, 2017, the Company consolidated 21 VIEs for which it was the primary beneficiary,
including 12 funds managed by Oaktree, eight CLOs for which Oaktree serves as collateral manager, and Oaktree
AIF Holdings, Inc., which was formed to hold certain assets for regulatory and other purposes. Two of the
consolidated funds, Oaktree Enhanced Income Retention Holdings III, LLC and Oaktree CLO RR Holder, LLC, were
formed to satisfy risk retention requirements under Section 15G of the Exchange Act. One of the CLOs had not
priced as of December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2016, the Company consolidated 17 VIEs.
As of December 31, 2017, the assets and liabilities of the 20 consolidated VIEs representing funds and
CLOs amounted to $6.2 billion and $4.8 billion, respectively. The assets of these consolidated VIEs primarily
consisted of investments in debt and equity securities, while their liabilities primarily represented debt obligations
issued by CLOs. The assets of these VIEs may be used only to settle obligations of the same VIE. In addition,
there is no recourse to the Company for the VIEs’ liabilities. In exchange for managing either the funds’ or CLOs’
collateral, the Company typically earns management fees and may earn performance fees, all of which are
eliminated in consolidation. As of December 31, 2017, the Company’s investments in consolidated VIEs had a
carrying value of $493.8 million, which represented its maximum risk of loss as of that date. The Company’s
investments in CLOs are generally subordinated to other interests in the CLOs and entitle the Company to receive a
pro-rata portion of the residual cash flows, if any, from the CLOs. Please see note 10 for more information on CLO
debt obligations.
Unconsolidated VIEs
The Company holds variable interests in certain VIEs in the form of direct equity interests that are not
consolidated because it is not the primary beneficiary, inasmuch as its fee arrangements are considered at-market
and it does not hold interests in those entities that are considered more than insignificant.
The carrying value of the Company’s investments in VIEs that were not consolidated are shown below.
As of December 31,
2017
2016
Corporate investments .......................................................................................................... $
Due from affiliates .................................................................................................................
930,699
160,257
Maximum exposure to loss ................................................................................................... $
1,090,956
$
$
1,055,227
159,714
1,214,941
153
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
5. INVESTMENTS
Corporate Investments
Corporate investments consist of investments in funds and companies in which the Company does not have
a controlling financial interest. Investments for which the Company is deemed to exert significant influence are
accounted for under the equity method of accounting and reflect Oaktree’s ownership interest in each fund or
company. In the case of investments for which the Company is not deemed to exert significant influence or control,
the fair value option of accounting has been elected. Investment income represents the Company’s pro-rata share
of income or loss from these funds or companies, or the change in fair value of the investment, as applicable.
Oaktree’s general partnership interests are substantially illiquid. While investments in funds reflect each respective
fund’s holdings at fair value, equity-method investments in DoubleLine Capital LP and its affiliates (collectively,
“DoubleLine”) and other companies are not adjusted to reflect the fair value of the underlying company. The fair
value of the underlying investments in Oaktree funds is based on the Company’s assessment, which takes into
account expected cash flows, earnings multiples and/or comparisons to similar market transactions, among other
factors. Valuation adjustments reflecting consideration of credit quality, concentration risk, sales restrictions and
other liquidity factors are integral to valuing these instruments.
Corporate investments consisted of the following:
Corporate Investments
Equity-method investments:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
Funds ....................................................................................................................................... $
916,559
$
981,209
Companies ...............................................................................................................................
Other investments, at fair value ...................................................................................................
42,294
50,778
34,932
107,591
Total corporate investments ......................................................................................................... $ 1,009,631
$ 1,123,732
The components of investment income are set forth below:
Investment Income
Equity-method investments:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Funds ............................................................................................................ $
138,465
$
123,511
$
Companies ....................................................................................................
Other investments, at fair value .........................................................................
71,311
(8,487)
66,427
9,188
1,813
49,933
212
Total investment income .................................................................................... $
201,289
$
199,126
$
51,958
Equity-method Investments
The Company’s equity-method investments include its investments in Oaktree funds for which it serves as
general partner, and other third-party funds and companies that are not consolidated, but for which the Company is
deemed to exert significant influence. The Company’s share of income or loss generated by these investments is
recorded within investment income in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company’s equity-method
investments in Oaktree funds principally reflect the Company’s general partner interests in those funds, which
typically does not exceed 2.5% in each fund. The Oaktree funds are investment companies that follow a
specialized basis of accounting established by GAAP. Equity-method investments in companies include the
Company’s one-fifth equity stake in DoubleLine.
Each reporting period, the Company evaluates each of its equity-method investments to determine if any
are considered significant, as defined by the SEC. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, or for the years ended
December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, no individual equity-method investment met the significance criteria. As a
result, separate financial statements were not required for any of the Company’s equity-method investments.
154
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Summarized financial information of the Company’s equity-method investments is set forth below:
Statements of Financial Condition
Assets:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
Cash and cash-equivalents ...................................................................................................... $
2,654,311
$
3,713,045
Investments, at fair value .........................................................................................................
41,754,054
43,084,842
Other assets ............................................................................................................................
2,116,751
1,994,304
Total assets ....................................................................................................................... $ 46,525,116
$ 48,792,191
Liabilities and Capital:
Debt obligations ....................................................................................................................... $
8,393,314
$
7,372,063
Other liabilities .........................................................................................................................
2,264,579
Total liabilities ...................................................................................................................
10,657,893
2,028,065
9,400,128
Total capital
.......................................................................................................................
35,867,223
39,392,063
Total liabilities and capital
.......................................................................................... $ 46,525,116
$ 48,792,191
Statements of Operations
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
Revenues / investment income ................................................................................................ $
1,982,828
$
2,188,044
Interest expense ......................................................................................................................
Other expenses .......................................................................................................................
(235,266)
(821,083)
(176,009)
(899,288)
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments .....................................................................
3,795,102
4,065,939
Net income ....................................................................................................................... $
4,721,581
$
5,178,686
Other Investments, at Fair Value
Other investments, at fair value primarily consist of: (a) investments in certain Oaktree and non-Oaktree
funds for which the fair value option of accounting has been elected and (b) derivatives utilized to hedge the
Company’s exposure to investment income earned from unconsolidated funds.
The following table summarizes net gains (losses) attributable to the Company’s other investments:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Realized gain .............................................................................................. $
8,439
$
Net change in unrealized gain (loss) ...........................................................
(16,926)
Total gain (loss) ........................................................................................... $
(8,487)
$
1,808
7,380
9,188
$
$
1,372
(1,160)
212
155
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Investments of Consolidated Funds
Investments, at Fair Value
Investments held and securities sold short by the consolidated funds are summarized below:
Investments
United States:
Debt securities:
Fair Value as of December 31,
Fair Value as a
Percentage of
Investments of
Consolidated Funds
as of December 31,
2017
2016
2017
2016
Consumer discretionary ............................................................................... $
796,681
$
628,621
14.0%
16.5%
Consumer staples ........................................................................................
Energy .........................................................................................................
Financials ....................................................................................................
Government .................................................................................................
Health care ..................................................................................................
Industrials ....................................................................................................
Information technology ................................................................................
Materials ......................................................................................................
Real estate ..................................................................................................
Telecommunication services ........................................................................
Utilities .........................................................................................................
Total debt securities (cost: $3,284,346 and $2,378,759 as of
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) ......................................
100,863
106,414
161,807
3,033
416,779
441,440
431,010
384,310
146,836
178,984
117,805
123,395
55,655
74,573
5,234
337,138
379,122
272,637
237,417
108,112
93,893
76,920
1.8
1.9
2.9
0.1
7.4
7.8
7.6
6.8
2.6
3.2
2.1
3.2
1.5
2.0
0.1
8.9
10.0
7.2
6.2
2.8
2.5
2.0
3,285,962
2,392,717
58.2
62.9
Equity securities:
Consumer discretionary ...............................................................................
Energy .........................................................................................................
Financials ....................................................................................................
Health care ..................................................................................................
Industrials ....................................................................................................
Materials ......................................................................................................
Telecommunication services ........................................................................
Utilities .........................................................................................................
Total equity securities (cost: $8,102 and $5,462 as of December 31,
2017 and 2016, respectively) .............................................................
1,778
649
3,061
527
316
—
305
1,192
7,828
Real estate:
Real estate ..................................................................................................
121,588
Total real estate securities (cost: $121,582 and $0 as of
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) ......................................
121,588
711
2,002
3,977
343
1
691
—
—
7,725
—
—
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
—
0.0
0.0
0.1
2.1
2.1
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
—
—
0.2
—
—
156
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Fair Value as of December 31,
Fair Value as a
Percentage of
Investments of
Consolidated Funds
as of December 31,
2017
2016
2017
2016
Investments
Europe:
Debt securities:
Consumer discretionary ............................................................................... $
573,270
$
374,627
10.1%
9.8%
Consumer staples ........................................................................................
121,636
Energy .........................................................................................................
Financials ....................................................................................................
Government .................................................................................................
Health care ..................................................................................................
Industrials ....................................................................................................
Information technology ................................................................................
Materials ......................................................................................................
Real estate ..................................................................................................
Telecommunication services ........................................................................
Utilities .........................................................................................................
Total debt securities (cost: $1,894,727 and $1,214,068 as of
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) ......................................
Equity securities:
5,929
40,130
—
333,693
163,972
95,409
267,252
12,528
278,358
8,949
92,750
13,274
7,291
1,996
210,078
54,578
23,832
226,961
6,531
214,182
—
2.1
0.1
0.7
—
5.9
2.9
1.7
4.7
0.2
4.9
0.2
2.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
5.5
1.4
0.6
6.0
0.2
5.6
—
1,901,126
1,226,100
33.5
32.1
Consumer Staples .......................................................................................
Energy .........................................................................................................
Financials ....................................................................................................
Health care ..................................................................................................
Materials ......................................................................................................
1,449
3,827
7,410
601
1,622
—
—
1,605
—
—
Total equity securities (cost: $12,787 and $1,494 as of December 31,
2017 and 2016, respectively) .............................................................
14,909
1,605
Asia and other:
Debt securities:
Consumer discretionary ...............................................................................
Consumer staples ........................................................................................
Energy .........................................................................................................
Financials ....................................................................................................
Government .................................................................................................
Health care ..................................................................................................
Industrials ....................................................................................................
Information technology ................................................................................
Materials ......................................................................................................
Real estate ..................................................................................................
Telecommunication services ........................................................................
Utilities .........................................................................................................
30,332
748
10,175
20,362
—
13,806
22,935
536
8,515
6,272
8,104
769
3,145
5,994
9,570
—
1,506
1,245
15,450
409
10,245
—
4,809
928
Total debt securities (cost: $124,723 and $57,400 as of December 31,
2017 and 2016, respectively) .............................................................
122,554
53,301
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.2
0.5
0.0
0.2
0.4
—
0.2
0.4
0.0
0.2
0.1
0.1
0.0
2.1
—
—
0.0
—
—
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
—
0.0
0.0
0.4
0.0
0.3
—
0.1
0.0
1.4
157
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Fair Value as of December 31,
Fair Value as a
Percentage of
Investments of
Consolidated Funds
as of December 31,
2017
2016
2017
2016
Investments
Asia and other:
Equity securities:
Consumer discretionary ............................................................................... $
29,026
$
Consumer staples ........................................................................................
Energy .........................................................................................................
Financials ....................................................................................................
Industrials ....................................................................................................
Information technology ................................................................................
Materials ......................................................................................................
Real estate ..................................................................................................
Telecommunication services ........................................................................
Utilities .........................................................................................................
7,279
5,551
58,632
34,019
23,900
28,590
15,339
1,735
2,502
Total equity securities (cost: $185,164 and $118,292 as of
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) ......................................
206,573
Total debt securities ..........................................................................................
5,309,642
Total equity securities ........................................................................................
Total real estate securities .................................................................................
229,310
121,588
7,639
3,786
6,978
38,242
21,564
16,642
19,697
6,086
4,296
1,856
126,786
3,672,118
136,116
—
0.5%
0.2%
0.1
0.1
1.2
0.7
0.4
0.5
0.3
0.0
0.0
3.8
93.8
4.1
2.1
0.1
0.2
1.0
0.6
0.4
0.5
0.2
0.1
0.1
3.4
96.4
3.6
—
Total investments, at fair value ..................................................................... $
5,660,540
$
3,808,234
100.0%
100.0%
Securities Sold Short
Equity securities (proceeds: $82,502 and $41,541 as of
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) ................................................. $
(86,467)
$
(41,016)
As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, no single issuer or investment had a fair value that exceeded 5% of
Oaktree’s total consolidated net assets.
158
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Net Gains (Losses) From Investment Activities of Consolidated Funds
Net gains (losses) from investment activities in the consolidated statements of operations consist primarily
of realized and unrealized gains and losses on the consolidated funds’ investments (including foreign exchange
gains and losses attributable to foreign-denominated investments and related activities) and other financial
instruments. Unrealized gains or losses result from changes in the fair value of these investments and other
financial instruments. Upon disposition of an investment, unrealized gains or losses are reversed and an offsetting
realized gain or loss is recognized in the current period.
The following table summarizes net gains (losses) from investment activities:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Net Realized
Gain (Loss) on
Investments
Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
on Investments
Net Realized
Gain (Loss) on
Investments
Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
on Investments
Net Realized
Gain (Loss) on
Investments
Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
on Investments
Investments and other financial
instruments .............................. $
CLO liabilities (1) ..........................
Foreign-currency forward
contracts (2) ..............................
Total-return and interest-rate
swaps (2) ..................................
Options and futures (2) .................
Swaptions (2)(3) .............................
27,910
$
(1,151)
$
30,718
$
109,398
$
895,271
$
(3,602,437)
—
53,351
(2,917)
232
(4,825)
—
1,909
378
574
—
—
521
(2,353)
(1,293)
—
(120,702)
—
—
264
457,594
(98,420)
(1,416)
(215,837)
3
—
43,055
(2,933)
(38,658)
(30,198)
2,186
Total .................................... $
20,400
$
55,061
$
27,593
$
(12,453)
$
1,177,150
$
(3,767,527)
(1)
Represents the net change in the fair value of CLO liabilities based on the more observable fair value of CLO assets, as measured under
the CLO measurement guidance. Please see note 2 for more information.
Please see note 7 for additional information.
(2)
(3) A swaption is an option granting the buyer the right but not the obligation to enter into a swap agreement on a specified future date.
159
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
6. FAIR VALUE
Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities
The short-term nature of cash and cash-equivalents, receivables and accounts payable causes each of
their carrying values to approximate fair value. The fair value of short-term investments included in cash and cash-
equivalents is a Level I valuation. The Company’s other financial assets and financial liabilities by fair-value
hierarchy level are set forth below. Please see notes 10 and 18 for the fair value of the Company’s outstanding debt
obligations and amounts due from/to affiliates, respectively.
As of December 31, 2017
As of December 31, 2016
Level I
Level II
Level III
Total
Level I
Level II
Level III
Total
Assets
U.S. Treasury and other
securities (1) ............................ $ 176,602
Corporate investments ...............
Foreign-currency forward
contracts (2) ............................
—
—
$
— $
— $ 176,602
$ 757,578
$
— $
— $ 757,578
1,833
50,902
52,735
5,020
—
5,020
—
—
27,551
74,663
102,214
16,142
—
16,142
Total assets ................................ $ 176,602
$
6,853
$
50,902
$ 234,357
$ 757,578
$
43,693
$
74,663
$ 875,934
Liabilities
Contingent consideration (3) ....... $
Foreign-currency forward
contracts (4) ............................
Cross-currency swap (3) .............
Interest-rate swaps (3) .................
Total liabilities ............................. $
— $
— $ (18,778) $ (18,778)
$
— $
— $ (23,567) $ (23,567)
—
—
—
(13,154)
(7,479)
—
—
—
—
(13,154)
(7,479)
—
—
—
—
(7,805)
—
(60)
—
—
—
(7,805)
—
(60)
— $ (20,633) $ (18,778) $ (39,411)
$
— $
(7,865) $ (23,567) $ (31,432)
(1) Carrying value approximates fair value due to the short-term nature.
(2) Amounts are included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition, except for $5,377 as of December 31, 2016,
which is included within corporate investments in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
(3) Amounts are included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
(4) Amounts are included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the condensed consolidated statements of financial
condition, except for $1,957 as of December 31, 2017, which is included within corporate investments in the consolidated statements of
financial condition.
There were no transfers between Level I and Level II positions for the years ended December 31, 2017 and
2016.
160
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of Level III financial instruments:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
Corporate
Investments
Contingent
Consideration
Liability
Corporate
Investments
Contingent
Consideration
Liability
Beginning balance ................................................................................................ $
74,663
$
(23,567)
$
25,750
$
(28,494)
Contributions or additions .................................................................................
Distributions ......................................................................................................
Net gain (loss) included in earnings ..................................................................
1,871
(36,283)
10,651
—
—
4,789
43,521
(1,470)
6,862
—
—
4,927
Ending balance ..................................................................................................... $
50,902
$
(18,778)
$
74,663
$
(23,567)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) attributable to financial instruments still
held at end of period ......................................................................................... $
3,758
$
4,789
$
5,913
$
4,927
The table below sets forth a summary of the valuation techniques and quantitative information utilized in
determining the fair value of the Company’s Level III financial instruments:
Financial Instrument
2017
2016
Valuation Technique
Fair Value as of December 31,
Significant
Unobservable Input
Range
Weighted
Average
Corporate investment –
Limited partnership
interests .....................
Contingent consideration
liability ........................
$
50,902
$
74,663
Market approach
(value of underlying assets)
Not applicable
Not
applicable
Not
applicable
(18,778)
(23,567)
Discounted cash flow
Assumed % of total
potential contingent
payments
0% – 100%
36%
161
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Held By Consolidated Funds
The short-term nature of cash and cash-equivalents held at the consolidated funds causes their carrying
value to approximate fair value. The fair value of cash-equivalents is a Level I valuation. Derivatives may relate to
a mix of Level I, II or III investments, and therefore their fair-value hierarchy level may not correspond to the fair-
value hierarchy level of the economically hedged investment. The table below summarizes the investments and
other financial instruments of the consolidated funds by fair-value hierarchy level:
As of December 31, 2017
As of December 31, 2016
Level I
Level II
Level III
Total
Level I
Level II
Level III
Total
Assets
Investments:
Corporate debt – bank
debt ........................... $
Corporate debt – all
other..........................
Equities – common
— $ 4,340,860
$
86,999
$ 4,427,859
$
— $ 2,973,482
$
208,868
$ 3,182,350
736
805,659
75,388
881,783
—
460,975
28,793
489,768
stock .........................
222,439
Equities – preferred
stock .........................
Real estate ....................
3,041
—
65
338
—
3,427
225,931
129,362
—
3,379
121,588
121,588
—
—
61
—
—
6,693
136,116
—
—
—
—
Total investments ......
226,216
5,146,922
287,402
5,660,540
129,362
3,434,518
244,354
3,808,234
Derivatives:
Foreign-currency
forward contracts ......
Swaps ...........................
Options and futures .......
Total derivatives ........
—
—
92
92
590
49
—
639
—
—
—
—
590
49
92
731
—
—
—
—
216
141
—
357
—
—
—
—
216
141
—
357
Total assets ....................... $
226,308
$ 5,147,561
$
287,402
$ 5,661,271
$
129,362
$ 3,434,875
$
244,354
$ 3,808,591
Liabilities
CLO debt obligations:
Senior secured notes (1) $
Subordinated notes (1) ...
Total CLO debt
obligations ............
Securities sold short:
—
—
(111,637)
(3,219,592)
Equity securities ............
(86,467)
—
Derivatives:
Foreign-currency
forward contracts ......
Swaps ...........................
Total derivatives ........
—
—
—
(817)
(136)
(953)
— $ (3,107,955) $
— $ (3,107,955)
$
— $ (2,953,880) $
— $ (2,953,880)
—
—
—
—
—
—
(111,637)
(3,219,592)
—
—
(100,330)
(3,054,210)
(86,467)
(41,016)
—
(817)
(136)
(953)
—
—
—
(4)
(1,082)
(1,086)
—
—
—
—
—
—
(100,330)
(3,054,210)
(41,016)
(4)
(1,082)
(1,086)
Total liabilities .................... $
(86,467) $ (3,220,545) $
— $ (3,307,012)
$
(41,016) $ (3,055,296) $
— $ (3,096,312)
(1)
The fair value of CLO liabilities is classified based on the more observable fair value of CLO assets. Please see notes 2 and 10 for more
information.
162
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The following tables set forth a summary of changes in the fair value of Level III investments:
Corporate
Debt –
Bank Debt
Corporate
Debt – All
Other
Equities –
Common
Stock
Equities –
Preferred
Stock
Real Estate
Real Estate
Loan
Portfolio
Swaps
Total
2017
Beginning balance ............................ $ 208,868
$
28,793
$
6,693
$
— $
— $
— $
— $
244,354
Transfers into Level III .............
19,270
Transfers out of Level III ..........
(48,371)
Purchases ................................
62,977
1,978
(1,978)
83,272
—
(3,280)
163
Sales ........................................
(161,511)
(37,942)
(2,056)
Realized gains (losses), net.....
3,990
Unrealized appreciation
(depreciation), net ...............
1,776
569
696
216
1,691
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
123,582
(2,005)
5
6
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
21,248
(53,629)
269,994
(203,514)
4,780
4,169
Ending balance ................................ $
86,999
$
75,388
$
3,427
$
— $ 121,588
$
— $
— $
287,402
Net change in unrealized
appreciation (depreciation)
attributable to assets still held at
end of period ................................ $
2016
1,828
$
806
$
1,691
$
— $
6
$
— $
— $
4,331
Beginning balance ............................ $ 1,871,375
$ 3,009,164
$ 8,729,202
$ 1,363,542
$ 9,655,270
$ 2,597,405
$ (8,251) $ 27,217,707
Cumulative-effect adjustment
from adoption of accounting
guidance ..............................
(1,672,305)
(3,007,287)
(8,725,026)
(1,363,542)
(9,655,270)
(2,597,405)
8,251
(27,012,584)
Transfers into Level III .............
83,218
Transfers out of Level III ..........
(43,728)
657
—
Purchases ................................
21,259
26,662
Sales ........................................
(57,659)
Realized gains (losses), net.....
389
Unrealized appreciation
(depreciation), net ...............
6,319
(219)
2
(186)
3,089
—
1,301
(2,651)
—
778
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
86,964
(43,728)
49,222
(60,529)
391
6,911
Ending balance ................................ $ 208,868
$
28,793
$
6,693
$
— $
— $
— $
— $
244,354
Net change in unrealized
appreciation (depreciation)
attributable to assets still held at
end of period ................................ $
6,196
$
(186) $
778
$
— $
— $
— $
— $
6,788
Total realized and unrealized gains and losses recorded for Level III investments are included in net
realized gain on consolidated funds’ investments or net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on
consolidated funds’ investments in the consolidated statements of operations.
Transfers between Level I and Level II positions for the year ended December 31, 2017 included $0.4
million from Level I to Level II due to a decline in trading activity. There were no transfers between Level I and Level
II positions for the year ended December 31, 2016.
Transfers out of Level III are generally attributable to certain investments that experienced a more
significant level of market trading activity or completed an initial public offering during the respective period and thus
were valued using observable inputs. Transfers into Level III typically reflect either investments that experienced a
less significant level of market trading activity during the period or portfolio companies that undertook restructurings
or bankruptcy proceedings and thus were valued in the absence of observable inputs.
163
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The following table sets forth a summary of the valuation techniques and quantitative information utilized in
determining the fair value of the consolidated funds’ Level III investments as of December 31, 2017:
Investment Type
Fair Value
Valuation Technique
Significant Unobservable
Inputs (1)(2)
Range
Weighted
Average (3)
Credit-oriented
investments:
Financials:
Industrials:
Information
technology:
$
53,732
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
14,563
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
6% – 11%
7%
3,782
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
5,331
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
11% – 13%
12%
13,965
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
Real estate:
2,897
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
11% – 13%
12%
22,297
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
327
Recent transaction price (8)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Other:
15,881
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
660
Market approach
(comparable companies) (6)
Earnings multiple (7)
8% – 20%
8x – 10x
12%
9x
29,452
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
Equity investments:
Real estate investments:
378
Market approach
(comparable companies) (6)
Earnings multiple (7)
1,343
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
9x – 11x
11% – 30%
10x
13%
1,707
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
Real estate:
121,087
Recent transaction price (8)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Total Level III
investments ..................
$
287,402
164
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The following table sets forth a summary of the valuation techniques and quantitative information utilized in
determining the fair value of the consolidated funds’ Level III investments as of December 31, 2016:
Investment Type
Fair Value
Valuation Technique
Significant Unobservable
Inputs (1)(2)
Range
Weighted
Average (3)
Credit-oriented
investments:
Consumer
discretionary:
$
7,658
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
5% – 13%
7%
64,147
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
Consumer Staples:
7,356
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
6% – 12%
7%
Energy:
Industrials:
Information
technology:
23,182
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
12,758
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
10,574
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
4,230
30,531
Market approach
(comparable companies) (6)
Recent market information (5)
11,681
Discounted cash flow (4)
Earnings multiple (7)
Quoted prices
Discount rate
5% – 7%
5x - 7x
6%
6x
Not applicable
Not applicable
6% – 13%
9%
5,076
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
Materials:
1,206
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
11% – 13%
12%
15,586
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
Other:
13,754
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
8% – 16%
12%
9,137
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
20,785
Recent transaction price (8)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Equity investments:
3,542
Market approach
(comparable companies) (6)
Earnings multiple (7)
1,352
Discounted cash flow (4)
Discount rate
4x – 11x
11% – 33%
8x
14%
1,799
Recent market information (5)
Quoted prices
Not applicable
Not applicable
Total Level III
investments ..................
$
244,354
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
The discount rate is the significant unobservable input used in the fair-value measurement of performing credit-oriented investments in which the
consolidated funds do not have a controlling interest in the underlying issuer, as well as certain equity investments and real estate loan portfolios.
An increase (decrease) in the discount rate would result in a lower (higher) fair-value measurement.
Multiple of either earnings or underlying assets is the significant unobservable input used in the market approach for the fair-value measurement of
distressed credit-oriented investments, credit-oriented investments in which the consolidated funds have a controlling interest in the underlying
issuer, equity investments and certain real estate-oriented investments. An increase (decrease) in the multiple would result in a higher (lower) fair-
value measurement.
The weighted average is based on the fair value of the investments included in the range.
A discounted cash-flow method is generally used to value performing credit-oriented investments in which the consolidated funds do not have a
controlling interest in the underlying issuer, as well as certain equity investments, real estate-oriented investments and real estate loan portfolios.
Certain investments are valued using vendor prices or broker quotes for the subject or similar securities. Generally, investments valued in this
manner are classified as Level III because the quoted prices may be indicative in nature for securities that are in an inactive market, may be for
similar securities, or may require adjustment for investment-specific factors or restrictions.
A market approach is generally used to value distressed investments and investments in which the consolidated funds have a controlling interest in
the underlying issuer.
Earnings multiples are based on comparable public companies and transactions with comparable companies. The Company typically utilizes
multiples of EBITDA; however, in certain cases the Company may use other earnings multiples believed to be most relevant to the investment. The
Company typically applies the multiple to trailing twelve-months’ EBITDA. However, in certain cases other earnings measures, such as pro forma
EBITDA, may be utilized if deemed to be more relevant.
Certain investments are valued based on recent transactions, generally defined as investments purchased or sold within six months of the
valuation date. The fair value may also be based on a pending transaction expected to close after the valuation date.
165
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
A significant amount of judgment may be required when using unobservable inputs, including assessing the
accuracy of source data and the results of pricing models. The Company assesses the accuracy and reliability of
the sources it uses to develop unobservable inputs. These sources may include third-party vendors that the
Company believes are reliable and commonly utilized by other marketplace participants. As described in note 2,
other factors beyond the unobservable inputs described above may have a significant impact on investment
valuations.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, there were no changes in the valuation techniques for Level III
securities. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the valuation technique for one Level III credit-oriented
investment changed from a discounted cash flow to a market approach based on comparable companies due to the
anticipated restructuring of the portfolio company.
7. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING
The Company enters into derivatives as part of its overall risk management strategy or to facilitate its
investment management activities. Risks associated with fluctuations in interest rates and foreign-currency
exchange rates in the normal course of business are addressed as part of the Company’s overall risk management
strategy that may include the use of derivatives to economically hedge or reduce these exposures. From time to
time, the Company may enter into (a) foreign-currency option and forward contracts to reduce earnings and cash-
flow volatility associated with changes in foreign-currency exchange rates, and (b) interest-rate swaps to manage all
or a portion of the interest-rate risk associated with its variable-rate borrowings. As a result of the use of these or
other derivative contracts, the Company is exposed to the risk that counterparties will fail to fulfill their contractual
obligations. The Company attempts to mitigate this counterparty risk by entering into derivative contracts only with
major financial institutions that have investment-grade credit ratings. Counterparty credit risk is evaluated in
determining the fair value of derivatives.
As of December 31, 2017, there were no derivatives outstanding that were designated as hedging
instruments for accounting purposes. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had one interest-rate swap
outstanding, which expired in January 2017, that was designated to hedge the interest-rate risk of the $150.0 million
outstanding principal balance remaining under the $250.0 million variable-rate bank term loan.
The fair value of freestanding derivatives consisted of the following:
As of December 31, 2017
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................ $
Cross-currency swap .....................................................................
288,451
—
$
288,451
$
$
5,020
$ (242,972)
—
(255,210)
5,020
$ (498,182)
$
$
(13,154)
(7,479)
(20,633)
Assets
Liabilities
Notional
Fair Value
Notional
Fair Value
As of December 31, 2016
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................ $
273,466
$
16,142
$ (152,534)
$
(7,805)
Realized and unrealized gains and losses arising from freestanding derivatives were recorded in the
consolidated statements of operations as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Investment income .................................................................................................. $
General and administrative expense (1) ...................................................................
(16,707)
$
4,630
$
—
(14,199)
(8,846)
23,554
Total gain (loss) ................................................................................................ $
(30,906)
$
(4,216)
$
23,554
(1) To the extent that the Company’s freestanding derivatives are utilized to hedge its foreign-currency exposure to investment
income and management fees earned from consolidated funds, the related hedged items are eliminated in consolidation,
166
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
with the derivative impact (a positive number reflects a reduction in expenses) reflected in consolidated general and
administrative expense.
As of both December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had not designated any derivatives as fair-value
hedges or hedges of net investments in foreign operations.
Derivatives Held By Consolidated Funds
Certain consolidated funds utilize derivatives in their ongoing investment operations. These derivatives
primarily consist of foreign-currency forward contracts and options utilized to manage currency risk, interest-rate
swaps to hedge interest-rate risk, options and futures used to hedge certain exposures for specific securities, and
total-return swaps utilized mainly to obtain exposure to leveraged loans or to participate in foreign markets not
readily accessible. The primary risk exposure for options and futures is price, while the primary risk exposure for
total-return swaps is credit. None of the derivative instruments are accounted for as a hedging instrument utilizing
hedge accounting.
The fair value of freestanding derivatives consisted of the following:
Assets
Liabilities
Notional
Fair Value
Notional
Fair Value
As of December 31, 2017
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................ $
Total-return and interest-rate swaps ...............................................
Options and futures ........................................................................
64,068
$
590
$
(41,606)
$
837
15,022
49
92
(4,794)
—
$
79,927
$
731
$
(46,400)
$
(817)
(136)
—
(953)
As of December 31, 2016
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................ $
Total-return and interest-rate swaps ...............................................
12,412
4,729
$
17,141
$
$
216
141
357
$
$
(269)
(19,471)
(19,740)
$
$
(4)
(1,082)
(1,086)
The impact of derivatives held by the consolidated funds in the consolidated statements of operations was
as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Net Realized
Gain (Loss) on
Investments
Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
on
Investments
Net Realized
Gain (Loss) on
Investments
Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
on
Investments
Net Realized
Gain (Loss) on
Investments
Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
on
Investments
Foreign-currency forward contracts ..... $
(2,917)
$
1,909
$
521
$
264
$
457,594
$
(98,420)
Total-return and interest-rate swaps ....
Options and futures .............................
Swaptions ............................................
232
(4,825)
—
378
574
—
(2,353)
(1,293)
—
(1,416)
(215,837)
3
—
43,055
(2,933)
(38,658)
(30,198)
2,186
Total ............................................ $
(7,510)
$
2,861
$
(3,125)
$
(1,149)
$
281,879
$
(165,090)
167
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Balance Sheet Offsetting
The Company recognizes all derivatives as assets or liabilities at fair value in its consolidated statements of
financial condition. In connection with its derivative activities, the Company generally enters into agreements
subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that allow the Company to offset derivative assets and liabilities
in the same currency by specific derivative type or, in the event of default by the counterparty, to offset derivative
assets and liabilities with the same counterparty. While these derivatives are eligible to be offset in accordance with
applicable accounting guidance, the Company has elected to present derivative assets and liabilities based on
gross fair value in its consolidated statements of financial condition. The table below sets forth the setoff rights and
related arrangements associated with derivatives held by the Company. The “gross amounts not offset in
statements of financial condition” columns represent derivatives that management has elected not to offset in the
consolidated statements of financial condition even though they are eligible to be offset in accordance with
applicable accounting guidance.
As of December 31, 2017
Derivative Assets:
Gross and Net
Amounts of
Assets
(Liabilities)
Presented
Gross Amounts Not Offset in
Statements of Financial Condition
Derivative
Assets
(Liabilities)
Cash Collateral
Received
(Pledged)
Net Amount
—
475
—
92
567
567
(8,134)
(7,479)
(15,613)
(702)
—
(702)
$
(16,315)
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................... $
5,020
$
5,020
$
— $
Derivative assets of consolidated funds:
Foreign-currency forward contracts ...................................................
Total-return and interest-rate swaps ..................................................
Options and futures ...........................................................................
Subtotal
.....................................................................................
590
49
92
731
115
49
—
164
—
—
—
—
Total
.................................................................................................. $
5,751
$
5,184
$
— $
Derivative Liabilities:
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................... $
(13,154)
$
(5,020)
$
— $
Cross-currency swap ........................................................................
Subtotal
.....................................................................................
Derivative liabilities of consolidated funds:
Foreign-currency forward contracts ...................................................
Total-return and interest-rate swaps ..................................................
Subtotal
.....................................................................................
(7,479)
(20,633)
(817)
(136)
(953)
—
(5,020)
(115)
(49)
(164)
Total
.................................................................................................. $
(21,586)
$
(5,184)
$
—
—
—
(87)
(87)
(87)
168
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
As of December 31, 2016
Derivative Assets:
Gross and Net
Amounts of
Assets
(Liabilities)
Presented
Gross Amounts Not Offset in
Statements of Financial Condition
Derivative
Assets
(Liabilities)
Cash Collateral
Received
(Pledged)
Net Amount
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................... $
16,142
$
7,805
$
— $
8,337
Derivative assets of consolidated funds:
Foreign-currency forward contracts ...................................................
Total-return and interest-rate swaps ..................................................
Subtotal
.....................................................................................
216
141
357
4
141
145
—
—
—
212
—
212
Total
.................................................................................................. $
16,499
$
7,950
$
— $
8,549
Derivative Liabilities:
Foreign-currency forward contracts ................................................... $
(7,805)
$
(7,805)
$
— $
Interest-rate swaps ............................................................................
Subtotal
.....................................................................................
Derivative liabilities of consolidated funds:
Foreign-currency forward contracts ...................................................
Total-return and interest-rate swaps ..................................................
Subtotal
.....................................................................................
(60)
(7,865)
(4)
(1,082)
(1,086)
—
(7,805)
(4)
(141)
(145)
—
—
—
(941)
(941)
—
(60)
(60)
—
—
—
Total
.................................................................................................. $
(8,951)
$
(7,950)
$
(941)
$
(60)
8. FIXED ASSETS
Fixed assets, which consist of furniture and equipment, capitalized software, office leasehold improvements
and company-owned aircraft, are included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial position.
The following table sets forth the Company’s fixed assets and accumulated depreciation:
Furniture, equipment and capitalized software ............................................................................. $
Leasehold improvements .............................................................................................................
Corporate aircraft
.........................................................................................................................
Other
...........................................................................................................................................
Fixed assets .........................................................................................................................
Accumulated depreciation ............................................................................................................
As of December 31,
2017
2016
25,618
$
66,940
66,120
5,229
163,907
(53,744)
18,771
49,626
66,277
3,748
138,422
(45,344)
Fixed assets, net
.................................................................................................................. $
110,163
$
93,078
9. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLES
Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable net assets of acquired businesses.
Goodwill has an indefinite useful life and is not amortized, but instead is tested for impairment annually in the fourth
quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have
occurred. As of December 31, 2017, the Company determined there was no goodwill impairment. The carrying
value of goodwill was $69.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016.
On October 17, 2017, the Company completed a transaction in which it became the new investment adviser
to two BDCs. The transaction was accounted for as an asset acquisition, with $319.4 million allocated to finite-lived
amortizable contractual rights. Please see note 3 for more information.
169
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The following table summarizes the carrying value of intangible assets:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
Contractual rights ........................................................................................................................ $
Accumulated amortization ...........................................................................................................
347,452
(16,301)
Intangible assets, net
........................................................................................................... $
331,151
$
$
28,017
(9,675)
18,342
Amortization expense associated with the Company’s intangible assets was $6.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 2017, and $4.0 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. Amortization of
intangible assets held as of December 31, 2017 is estimated to be $16.8 million for each of the years ending
December 31, 2018–2020, $15.1 million for 2021 and $12.8 million for 2022.
Goodwill and intangible assets are included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial
position.
10. DEBT OBLIGATIONS AND CREDIT FACILITIES
The Company’s debt obligations are set forth below:
$250,000, 3.78%, issued in December 2017, payable on December 18, 2032 ................................ $
$250,000, 6.75%, issued in November 2009, payable on December 2, 2019 ..................................
$250,000, variable-rate term loan, issued in March 2014, payable on March 31, 2021 (1) ................
$50,000, 3.91%, issued in September 2014, payable on September 3, 2024 ..................................
$100,000, 4.01%, issued in September 2014, payable on September 3, 2026 ................................
$100,000, 4.21%, issued in September 2014, payable on September 3, 2029 ................................
$100,000, 3.69%, issued in July 2016, payable on July 12, 2031 ....................................................
Total remaining principal
..................................................................................................................
Less: Debt issuance costs ...............................................................................................................
Debt obligations ............................................................................................................................... $
As of December 31,
2017
2016
250,000
$
—
—
150,000
50,000
100,000
100,000
100,000
750,000
250,000
150,000
50,000
100,000
100,000
100,000
750,000
(3,726)
(4,103)
746,274
$
745,897
(1) The credit agreement consists of a $250 million term loan, of which $100 million was repaid, and a $500 million revolving
credit facility. Borrowings generally bear interest at a spread to either LIBOR or an alternative base rate. Based on the
current credit ratings of Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., the interest rate on borrowings is LIBOR plus 1.00% per annum
and the commitment fee on the unused portions of the revolving credit facility is 0.125% per annum. The credit agreement
contains customary financial covenants and restrictions, including ones regarding a maximum leverage ratio and a
minimum required level of assets under management (as defined in the credit agreement). As of December 31, 2017, the
Company had no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility.
170
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
As of December 31, 2017, future scheduled principal payments of debt obligations were as follows:
2018 ......................................................................................................................................................................... $
2019 .........................................................................................................................................................................
2020 .........................................................................................................................................................................
2021 .........................................................................................................................................................................
2022 .........................................................................................................................................................................
Thereafter
................................................................................................................................................................
—
—
—
150,000
—
600,000
Total
......................................................................................................................................................................... $
750,000
The Company was in compliance with all financial maintenance covenants associated with its senior notes
and bank credit facility as of December 31, 2017 and 2016.
The fair value of the Company’s debt obligations, which are carried at amortized cost, is a Level III valuation
that is estimated based on a discounted cash-flow calculation using estimated rates that would be offered to
Oaktree for debt of similar terms and maturities. The fair value of these debt obligations, gross of debt issuance
costs, was $762.7 million and $756.6 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, utilizing an average
borrowing rate of 3.6% and 3.9%, respectively. As of December 31, 2017, a 10% increase in the assumed average
borrowing rate would lower the estimated fair value to $739.6 million, whereas a 10% decrease would increase the
estimated fair value to $786.3 million.
In December 2017, the Company’s indirect subsidiary, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., issued and sold
to certain accredited investors $250 million of 3.78% senior notes due 2032 (the “Notes”). The Notes are senior
unsecured obligations of the issuer, jointly and severally guaranteed by the Company’s indirect subsidiaries,
Oaktree Capital I, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P. and Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P. The proceeds from the sale of the
Notes and cash on hand were used to redeem the $250 million of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2019 and to pay the
related make-whole premium to holders thereof. In connection with the Notes offering, the Company entered into a
cross-currency swap agreement to euros, reducing the interest cost to 1.95% per year. The Notes provide for
certain affirmative and negative covenants, including financial covenants relating to the issuer’s and guarantors’
combined leverage ratio and minimum assets under management. In addition, the Notes contain customary
representations and warranties of the issuer and the guarantors, and customary events of default, in certain cases,
subject to cure periods. The issuer may prepay all, or from time to time any part of, the Notes at any time, subject
to the issuer’s payment of the applicable make-whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount
prepaid. Upon the occurrence of a change of control, the issuer will be required to make an offer to prepay the
Notes together with the applicable make-whole amount determined with respect to such principal amount prepaid.
In July 2017, the Company agreed to guarantee a $17.5 million standby letter of credit extended to one of
the investment funds that it manages, until such time as the fund has secured commitments or other means of
collateral. As of December 31, 2017, no amounts were outstanding on the letter of credit facility.
171
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Credit Facilities of the Consolidated Funds
Certain consolidated funds may maintain revolving credit facilities that are secured by the assets of the fund
or may issue senior variable rate notes to fund investments on a longer term basis, generally up to ten years. The
obligations of the consolidated funds are nonrecourse to the Company.
The consolidated funds had the following debt obligations outstanding:
Credit Agreement
Outstanding Amount as of
December 31,
2017
2016
Facility
Capacity
Weighted
Average
Interest
Rate
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Maturity
(years)
Commitment
Fee Rate
Senior variable rate notes................... $
870,098
$
488,997
$ 870,100
3.01%
10.7
N/A
L/C Fee
N/A
Less: Debt issuance costs ..................
(7,697)
(5,041)
Total debt obligations, net ................... $
862,401
$
483,956
As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the consolidated funds had debt obligations with an aggregate
outstanding principal balance of $870.1 million and $489.0 million, respectively. The fair value of the senior variable
rate notes is a Level III valuation and aggregated $872.1 million as of December 31, 2017, using prices obtained
from pricing vendors, and approximated carrying value as of December 31, 2016 due to their recent issuance date.
Financial instruments that are valued using quoted prices for the security or similar securities are generally
classified as Level III because the quoted prices may be indicative in nature for securities that are in an inactive
market, may be for similar securities, or may require adjustment for investment-specific factors or restrictions.
Debt Obligations of CLOs
Debt obligations of CLOs represent amounts due to holders of debt securities issued by the CLOs, as well
as term loans of CLOs that had not priced as of period end. The table below sets forth the outstanding debt
obligations of CLOs as of the date indicated.
As of December 31, 2017
As of December 31, 2016
Fair Value (1)
Weighted
Average
Interest Rate
Senior secured notes .............................................. $ 3,107,955
Subordinated note (2) ...............................................
111,637
2.18%
N/A
Total CLO debt obligations ...................................... $ 3,219,592
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Maturity
(years)
10.7
10.8
Fair Value (1)
Weighted
Average
Interest Rate
$ 2,953,880
2.52%
100,330
N/A
$ 3,054,210
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Maturity
(years)
10.7
11.6
(1)
(2)
The fair value of CLO liabilities was measured as the fair value of CLO assets less the sum of (a) the fair value of any beneficial interests
held by the Company and (b) the carrying value of any beneficial interests that represent compensation for services. Please see notes 2
and 6 for more information.
The subordinated notes do not have a contractual interest rate; instead, they receive distributions from the excess cash flows generated by
the CLO.
The debt obligations of CLOs are nonrecourse to the Company and are backed by the investments held by
the respective CLO. Assets of one CLO may not be used to satisfy the liabilities of another. As of December 31,
2017 and 2016, the fair value of CLO assets was $3.9 billion and $3.4 billion, respectively, and consisted of cash,
corporate loans, corporate bonds and other securities.
172
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
As of December 31, 2017, future scheduled principal or par value payments with respect to the debt
obligations of CLOs were as follows:
2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................... $
2019 .......................................................................................................................................................................
2020 .......................................................................................................................................................................
2021 .......................................................................................................................................................................
2022 .......................................................................................................................................................................
Thereafter
...............................................................................................................................................................
47,470
—
—
—
—
3,111,825
Total
....................................................................................................................................................................... $ 3,159,295
11. NON-CONTROLLING REDEEMABLE INTERESTS IN CONSOLIDATED FUNDS
The following table sets forth a summary of changes in the non-controlling redeemable interests in the
consolidated funds. Dividends reinvested and in-kind contributions or distributions are non-cash in nature and have
been presented on a gross basis in the table below.
Beginning balance ....................................................................................... $
Cumulative-effect adjustment from adoption of accounting guidance....
Initial consolidation of a fund .................................................................
Contributions .........................................................................................
Distributions ..........................................................................................
Net income (loss) ..................................................................................
Change in distributions payable ............................................................
Change in accrued or deferred contributions ........................................
Foreign-currency translation and other .................................................
Ending balance ............................................................................................ $
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
344,047
$ 38,173,125
$ 41,681,155
—
(37,969,042)
296,971
331,764
(146,393)
29,532
1,853
—
2,774
34,095
144,060
(56,557)
20,988
(4,227)
—
1,605
—
—
5,796,081
(7,407,437)
(1,812,539)
387,989
526
(472,650)
860,548
$
344,047
$ 38,173,125
173
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
12. UNITHOLDERS’ CAPITAL
Unitholders’ capital reflects the economic interests attributable to Class A unitholders, non-controlling
interests in consolidated subsidiaries and non-controlling interests in consolidated funds. Non-controlling interests
in consolidated subsidiaries represent the portion of unitholders’ capital attributable to the OCGH non-controlling
interest and third parties. The OCGH non-controlling interest is determined at the Oaktree Operating Group level
based on the proportionate share of Oaktree Operating Group units held by the OCGH unitholders. Certain
expenses, such as income tax and related administrative expenses of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC and its
Intermediate Holding Companies, are solely attributable to the Class A unitholders. As of December 31, 2017 and
2016, respectively, OCGH units represented 90,975,687 of the total 156,285,913 Oaktree Operating Group units
and 91,758,067 of the total 154,790,343 Oaktree Operating Group units. Based on total allocable Oaktree
Operating Group capital of $1,912,517 and $1,754,882 as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, the OCGH
non-controlling interest was $1,113,314 and $1,040,274. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, non-controlling
interests attributable to certain related parties and third parties was $7,923 and $10,045, respectively.
Distributions per Class A unit are set forth below:
Payment Date
Record Date
Applicable to Quarterly Period Ended
Distribution
Per Unit
November 10, 2017
August 11, 2017
May 12, 2017
February 24, 2017
November 6, 2017
August 7, 2017
May 8, 2017
February 17, 2017
September 30, 2017
June 30, 2017
March 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
Total 2017 .............................................................................................................................................................
November 14, 2016
August 12, 2016
May 13, 2016
February 26, 2016
November 7, 2016
August 8, 2016
May 9, 2016
February 19, 2016
September 30, 2016
June 30, 2016
March 31, 2016
December 31, 2015
Total 2016 .............................................................................................................................................................
November 12, 2015
August 13, 2015
May 14, 2015
February 25, 2015
November 9, 2015
August 10, 2015
May 11, 2015
February 19, 2015
September 30, 2015
June 30, 2015
March 31, 2015
December 31, 2014
$
$
$
$
$
Total 2015 .............................................................................................................................................................
$
0.56
1.31
0.71
0.63
3.21
0.65
0.58
0.55
0.47
2.25
0.40
0.50
0.64
0.56
2.10
174
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The following table sets forth a summary of net income attributable to the OCGH non-controlling interest
and to Class A unitholders:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Weighted average Oaktree Operating Group units outstanding
(in thousands):
OCGH non-controlling interest
....................................................................
Class A unitholders ......................................................................................
Total weighted average units outstanding ....................................................
91,643
64,148
92,122
62,565
155,791
154,687
Oaktree Operating Group net income:
Net income attributable to OCGH non-controlling interest ........................... $
Net income attributable to Class A unitholders ............................................
Oaktree Operating Group net income (1) ...................................................... $
422,122
295,161
717,283
$
$
343,781
233,765
577,546
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC:
Oaktree Operating Group net income attributable to Class A unitholders .... $
Non-Operating Group income (expense) .....................................................
Income tax expense of Intermediate Holding Companies ............................
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ............................... $
295,161
$
233,765
144,143
(207,810)
(1,176)
(37,884)
231,494
$
194,705
$
71,349
104,427
49,324
153,751
195,162
87,620
282,782
87,620
(2,097)
(14,174)
$
$
$
(1) Oaktree Operating Group net income does not include amounts attributable to other non-controlling interests, which
amounted to $2,662, $4,696 and $10,214 for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
The change in the Company’s ownership interest in the Oaktree Operating Group is set forth below:
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC .......................................... $
Equity reallocation between controlling and non-controlling interests ......................
Change from net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC and transfers
from non-controlling interests .............................................................................. $
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
231,494
$
194,705
$
71,349
23,151
14,388
181,539
254,645
$
209,093
$
252,888
Please see notes 13, 14 and 15 for additional information regarding transactions that impacted unitholders’
capital.
13. EARNINGS PER UNIT
The computation of net income per Class A unit is set forth below:
Net income per Class A unit (basic and diluted):
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(in thousands, except per unit amounts)
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ..................................... $
231,494
$
194,705
Weighted average number of Class A units outstanding (basic and diluted) ......
64,148
62,565
Basic and diluted net income per Class A unit ................................................... $
3.61
$
3.11
$
$
71,349
49,324
1.45
OCGH units may be exchanged on a one-for-one basis into Class A units, subject to certain restrictions. As
of December 31, 2017, there were 90,975,687 OCGH units outstanding, which are vested or will vest through
February 15, 2027, that ultimately may be exchanged into 90,975,687 Class A units. The exchange of these units
would proportionally increase the Company’s interest in the Oaktree Operating Group. However, as the restrictions
175
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
set forth in the exchange agreement were in place at the end of each respective reporting period, those units were
not included in the computation of diluted earnings per unit for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and
2015.
A deferred equity unit represents a special unit award that, when vested, will be settled with an unvested
OCGH unit on a one-for-one basis. The number of deferred equity units that will vest is based on the achievement
of certain performance targets through June 2021. Once a performance target has been met, the applicable
number of OCGH units will be issued and begin to vest over 4.0 years. The holder of a deferred equity unit is not
entitled to any distributions until the issuance of an OCGH unit in settlement of a deferred equity unit. As of
December 31, 2017, no OCGH units were considered issuable under the terms of the arrangement; consequently,
no contingently issuable units were included in the computation of diluted earnings per unit for the year ended
December 31, 2017. Please see note 14 for more information.
In connection with the Highstar acquisition, the Company has a contingent consideration liability that is
payable in a combination of cash and fully-vested OCGH units. The amount of contingent consideration, if any, is
based on the achievement of certain performance targets over a period of up to seven years from the acquisition
date. As of December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, no OCGH units were considered issuable under the terms of the
contingent consideration arrangement; consequently, no contingently issuable units were included in the
computation of diluted earnings per unit for each of those years. Please see note 16 for more information.
14. EQUITY-BASED COMPENSATION
In December 2011, the Company adopted the 2011 Oaktree Capital Group, LLC Equity Incentive Plan (the
“2011 Plan”). The 2011 Plan provides for the granting of options, unit appreciation rights, restricted unit awards, unit
bonus awards, phantom equity awards or other unit-based awards to senior executives, directors, officers, certain
employees, consultants, and advisors of the Company and its affiliates. As of December 31, 2017, a maximum of
23,218,551 units have been authorized to be awarded pursuant to the 2011 Plan, and 11,426,213 units (including
2,000,000 EVUs and 62,047 phantom units) have been awarded under the 2011 Plan. Each Class A and OCGH
unit, when issued, represents an indirect interest in one Oaktree Operating Group unit. Total vested and unvested
Class A and OCGH units issued and outstanding were 156,285,913 as of December 31, 2017.
Pursuant to the terms of the OCGH limited partnership agreement, the general partner of OCGH may elect
at its discretion to declare an open period during which an OCGH unitholder may exchange its OCGH units for, at
the option of the Company’s board of directors, Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-
prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value, or any combination of the foregoing under the terms of
the Company’s exchange agreement, as amended. The general partner determines the number of units eligible for
exchange within a given open period and, if the OCGH unitholders request to exchange a number of units in excess
of the amount eligible for exchange, the general partner determines which units to exchange taking into account
appropriate factors. In addition, the general partner of OCGH may at its sole discretion cause a mandatory sale or
exchange of OCGH units owned by any OCGH unitholder. Upon approval by the Company’s board of directors,
OCGH units selected for exchange in accordance with the foregoing will be exchanged, at the option of the board of
directors, into Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other
consideration of equal value, or any combination of the foregoing pursuant to the terms of the exchange agreement.
The exchange agreement generally provides that (a) such OCGH units will be acquired by the Intermediate
Holding Companies in exchange for, at the option of the Company’s board of directors, Class A units, an equivalent
amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value, or any combination of
the foregoing, (b) the OCGH units acquired by the Intermediate Holding Companies may then be redeemed by
OCGH in exchange for Oaktree Operating Group units, (c) the Intermediate Holding Companies may exchange
Oaktree Operating Group units with each other such that, immediately after such exchange, each Intermediate
Holding Company holds Oaktree Operating Group units only in the Oaktree Operating Group entity for which such
Intermediate Holding Company serves as the general partner and (d) the Company will cancel a corresponding
number of Class B units.
176
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Class A and OCGH Unit Awards
In 2017, the Company granted 1,285,548 Class A units and 274,018 restricted OCGH units to its employees
and directors, subject to annual vesting over a weighted average period of approximately 5.6 years. As of
December 31, 2017, the Company expected to recognize compensation expense on its unvested Class A and
OCGH unit awards of $145.6 million over a weighted average period of 4.0 years.
The Company utilizes a contemporaneous valuation report in determining fair value at the date of grant for
OCGH unit awards. Each valuation report is based on the market price of Oaktree’s Class A units. A discount is
then applied to the Class A unit market price to reflect the lack of marketability for the OCGH units. The
determination of an appropriate discount for lack of marketability is based on a review of discounts on the sale of
restricted shares of publicly traded companies and multi-period put-based quantitative methods. Factors that
influence the size of the discount for lack of marketability include (a) the estimated time it would take for an OCGH
unitholder to exchange units into Class A units, (b) the volatility of the Company’s business and (c) thin trading of
the Class A units. Each of these factors is subject to significant judgment.
The estimated time-to-liquidity assumption ranged between 5.6 years in 2015 and 5.8 years in the most
recent valuation in 2017. The estimated time to liquidity is influenced primarily by the need for (a) the general
partner of OCGH to elect in its discretion to declare an open period during which an OCGH unitholder may
exchange his or her unrestricted vested OCGH units for, at the option of the Company’s board of directors, Class A
units on a one-for-one basis, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other
consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing, and (b) the approval of the Company’s board of
directors to exchange such OCGH units into any of the foregoing. Board approval is based primarily on the
objective of maintaining an orderly market for Oaktree’s units, but may take into account any other factors that the
board may deem appropriate in its sole discretion. Volatility is estimated from historical and implied volatilities of the
Company and six comparable public alternative asset management companies.
In valuing employee OCGH unit grants, the discount percentage applied to the then-prevailing Class A unit
trading price was 20% for all OCGH units granted in 2015 through 2017. In the first quarter of 2017, the Company
adopted the new accounting guidance related to share-based payment awards, as further discussed in note 2. With
respect to forfeitures, the Company adopted the guidance on a modified retrospective basis and made an
accounting policy election to account for forfeitures when they occur. Accordingly, no forfeitures have been
assumed in the calculation of compensation expense effective January 1, 2017. Prior to adoption, the calculation of
compensation expense assumed a forfeiture rate of up to 3.0% annually, based on expected employee turnover,
and was revised annually or more frequently, as necessary, to adjust for actual forfeitures and to reflect expense
only for those units that ultimately vest.
177
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
A summary of the status of the Company’s unvested Class A and OCGH unit awards and a summary of
changes for the periods presented are set forth below (actual dollars per unit):
Class A Units
OCGH Units
Number of Units
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Number of Units
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 2014 .......................................................
Granted ................................................................................
Vested ..................................................................................
Exchanged (1) ........................................................................
Forfeited ...............................................................................
Balance, December 31, 2015 .......................................................
Granted ................................................................................
Vested ..................................................................................
Forfeited ...............................................................................
Balance, December 31, 2016 .......................................................
Granted ................................................................................
Vested ..................................................................................
Forfeited ...............................................................................
Balance, December 31, 2017 .......................................................
19,049
$
7,940
(50,931)
2,418,282
(18,000)
2,376,340
830,949
(997,039)
(81,850)
2,128,400
1,285,548
(837,254)
(20,378)
2,556,316
$
50.63
55.75
40.11
38.10
42.29
38.18
46.79
37.71
35.63
41.86
45.42
40.57
45.59
44.05
5,070,992
$
1,175,213
(1,421,597)
(2,418,282)
(140,359)
2,265,967
879,667
(601,249)
(206,432)
2,337,953
274,018
(453,136)
—
36.21
44.04
32.38
38.10
35.68
40.70
35.96
39.18
34.60
39.85
37.15
38.50
—
2,158,835
$
39.79
(1) Represents the unvested units with respect to the November 2015 exchange of 12,998,725 outstanding vested and
unvested OCGH units into an equal number of Class A units.
Equity Value Units
OCGH equity value units (“EVUs”) represent special limited partnership units in OCGH that entitle the
holder the right to receive special distributions that will be settled in OCGH units, based on value created during a
specified period in excess of a fixed “Base Value.” The value created will be measured on a per unit basis, based
on the appreciation of the Class A units and certain components of quarterly distributions with respect to OCGH
units over the period beginning on January 1, 2015 and ending on each of December 31, 2019, December 31, 2020
and December 31, 2021, with one-third of the EVUs recapitalizing on each such date. EVUs also give the holder
the right, subject to service vesting and Oaktree performance relative to the accreting Base Value, to receive certain
quarterly distributions from OCGH. EVUs do not entitle the holder to any voting rights.
Certain EVUs provide the holder with liquidity rights in respect of the special distributions, if any, that will be
settled in OCGH units. The Company accounts for EVUs with liquidity rights as liability-classified awards. As of
December 31, 2017, there were 1,000,000 equity-classified EVUs and 1,000,000 liability-classified EVUs
outstanding. As of December 31, 2017, the Company expected to recognize $3.1 million of compensation expense
on its unvested EVUs over the next 2.0 years. Equity-classified EVUs that require future service are expensed on a
straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Liability-classified EVUs are remeasured at the end of each
quarter.
On April 26, 2017, the terms of the EVU agreement were amended such that the value received under the
EVUs will be reduced by (i) distributions received by the holder on 225,000 OCGH units granted to the holder on
April 26, 2017, (ii) the value of the portion of profit sharing payments received by the holder attributable to the net
incentive income received from certain funds, and (iii) the full value of the OCGH units granted to the holder on April
26, 2017. To the extent that the reduction relates to the value of any such OCGH units that are unvested at the time
of the reduction, such OCGH units will vest at that time. The amendment was accounted for as a modification of an
equity award in the second quarter of 2017 and resulted in $4.1 million of incremental compensation cost as of the
modification date, which will be recognized over the remaining vesting period.
178
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The fair value of EVUs was determined using a Monte Carlo simulation model at the grant date and at
modification date for equity-classified EVUs and as of the period end date for liability-classified EVUs. The fair
value is affected by the Class A unit trading price and assumptions regarding certain complex and subjective
variables, including the expected Class A unit trading price volatility, distributions and exercise timing, and the risk-
free interest rate.
Deferred Equity Units
A deferred equity unit represents a special unit award that, when vested, will be settled with an unvested
OCGH unit on a one-for-one basis. The number of deferred equity units that will vest is based on the achievement
of certain performance targets through June 2021. Once a performance target has been met, the applicable
number of OCGH units will be issued and begin to vest over 4.0 years. The holder of a deferred equity unit is not
entitled to any distributions until settled by the issuance of an OCGH unit. As of December 31, 2017, there were
250,000 deferred equity units outstanding, all of which were granted in the second quarter of 2017. As of December
31, 2017, the Company expected to recognize $2.7 million of compensation expense on its unvested deferred
equity units over a weighted average period of approximately 6.0 years. Please see note 13 for more information.
The fair value of the deferred equity units was determined at the grant date based on the then-prevailing
Class A unit trading price and reflected a 20% lack-of-marketability discount for the OCGH units that will be issued
upon vesting.
15. INCOME TAXES AND RELATED PAYMENTS
Oaktree is a publicly traded partnership and Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc., two of its
Intermediate Holding Companies, are wholly-owned corporate subsidiaries. Income earned by these corporate
subsidiaries is subject to U.S. federal and state income taxation and taxed at prevailing rates. Income earned by
non-corporate subsidiaries is not subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax and is allocated to the Oaktree
Operating Group’s unitholders. The Company’s effective tax rate is dependent on many factors, including the
estimated nature of many amounts and the mix of revenues and expenses between the subsidiaries that are or are
not subject to income tax; consequently, from period to period the effective tax rate is subject to significant variation.
Tax Legislation
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Act was enacted. The Tax Act reduced the corporate income tax rate from
35% to 21%, and included significant changes to other domestic and international corporate income tax provisions.
The rate change resulted in a net reduction to net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC of $33.2
million, comprised of $178.2 million in additional tax expense due to a reduction in the Company’s deferred tax
assets and a $145.1 million benefit to other income due to a reduction in the Company’s tax receivable agreement
liability. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 in
December 2017, which provides that in situations where a financial statement issuer does not have all necessary
information to fully account for the income tax effect of the Tax Act, the issuer may record a provisional amount in its
financial statements that may be subject to adjustment during a subsequent measurement period. The Company
has assessed the impact of the Tax Act on its December 31, 2017 consolidated financial statements and believes
the material impacts of The Act have been reflected in the above provisional amounts. The Company will continue
to evaluate the impact of the Tax Act with respect to certain international provisions as well as provisions that have
been identified as requiring additional technical guidance. The Company expects to complete its evaluation of the
provisional amounts during the second half of 2018 as technical guidance is released and as it completes its 2017
federal and state income tax returns.
179
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Income tax expense from operations consisted of the following:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Current:
U.S. federal income tax .............................................................................. $
State and local income tax .........................................................................
Foreign income tax ....................................................................................
4,085
2,687
5,907
$
12,679
Deferred:
U.S. federal income tax .............................................................................. $
State and local income tax .........................................................................
Foreign income tax ....................................................................................
191,488
10,928
347
$
202,763
Total:
U.S. federal income tax .............................................................................. $
State and local income tax .........................................................................
Foreign income tax ....................................................................................
Income tax expense .......................................................................................... $
195,573
13,615
6,254
$
$
$
$
$
10,268
$
6,154
1,436
17,858
23,835
2,110
(1,284)
24,661
34,103
8,264
152
$
$
$
$
1,478
1,650
2,621
5,749
11,306
786
(292)
11,800
12,784
2,436
2,329
215,442
$
42,519
$
17,549
The Company’s income (loss) before income taxes consisted of the following:
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Domestic income (loss) before income taxes .................................................... $
Foreign income (loss) before income taxes .......................................................
Total income (loss) before income taxes ........................................................... $
894,911
10,013
904,924
$
$
623,712
$ (1,518,108)
(15,090)
2,695
608,622
$ (1,515,413)
The Company’s effective tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate for the following reasons:
Income tax expense at federal statutory rate .....................................................
Income passed through .....................................................................................
State and local taxes, net of federal benefit .......................................................
Foreign taxes ....................................................................................................
Deferred tax adjustment
....................................................................................
Other, net
..........................................................................................................
Total effective rate .............................................................................................
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
35.00%
(31.61)
0.38
0.23
19.76
0.05
35.00%
(30.31)
35.00 %
(35.91)
1.28
0.89
—
0.13
(0.17)
(0.09)
—
0.01
23.81%
6.99%
(1.16)%
180
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
The components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:
As of December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Deferred tax assets:
Investment in partnerships ............................................................................ $
Equity-based compensation expense ............................................................
Other, net
......................................................................................................
Total deferred tax assets ......................................................................................
Total deferred tax liabilities ...................................................................................
Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance .............................................
Valuation allowance .............................................................................................
Net deferred tax assets ........................................................................................ $
191,713
$
386,796
$
414,142
3,537
9,311
204,561
2,101
202,460
—
4,449
14,329
405,574
960
404,614
—
3,773
9,675
427,590
1,792
425,798
—
202,460
$
404,614
$
425,798
When assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is probable that
some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In determining whether the deferred tax assets are
realizable, the Company considers the period of expiration of the tax asset, historical and projected taxable income,
and tax liabilities for the tax jurisdiction in which the tax asset is located. The deferred tax asset recognized by the
Company, as it relates to the higher tax basis in the carrying value of certain assets compared to the book basis of
those assets, will be recognized in future years by these taxable entities. Deferred tax assets are based on the
amount of the tax benefit that the Company’s management has determined is more likely than not to be realized in
future periods. In determining the realizability of this tax benefit, management considered numerous factors that will
give rise to pre-tax income in future periods. Among these are the historical and expected future book and tax basis
pre-tax income of the Company and unrealized gains in the Company’s assets at the determination date. Based on
these and other factors, the Company determined that, as of December 31, 2017, all deferred tax assets were more
likely than not to be realized in future periods.
The Company recognizes tax benefits related to its tax positions only where the position is “more likely than
not” to be sustained in the event of examination by tax authorities. As part of its assessment, the Company
analyzes its tax filing positions in all of the federal, state and foreign tax jurisdictions where it is required to file
income tax returns, and for all open tax years in these jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2017, the total reserve
balance, including interest and penalties, was $7.5 million.
The following is a reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits (excluding interest and penalties thereon):
Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
Unrecognized tax benefits, January 1 ................................................................... $
5,768
$
4,956
$
Additions for tax positions related to the current year ....................................
Additions for tax positions related to prior years ............................................
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years .........................................
Settlements ...................................................................................................
350
—
(412)
—
350
2,121
(79)
—
5,575
1,156
109
—
—
Lapse in statute of limitations ........................................................................
(1,340)
(1,580)
(1,884)
Unrecognized tax benefits, December 31 ............................................................. $
4,366
$
5,768
$
4,956
If the above tax benefits as of December 31, 2017 were to be recognized in 2017, the $4.4 million would
impact the annual effective tax rate.
The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax positions in the provision for
income taxes in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, the
aggregate amount of interest and penalties accrued was $3.2 million and $3.1 million. The Company recognized a
net expense of $0.1 million and $1.6 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively, and no net change in 2015. There was
181
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
no net change in the amount of interest and penalties accrued between December 31, 2014 and December 31,
2015, because the $0.9 million charge for interest and penalties in 2015 was fully offset by a $0.9 million benefit
from the reversal of prior-year accruals upon the lapse in the statute of limitations.
The Company files its tax returns as prescribed by the tax laws of the jurisdictions in which it operates. In the
normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by federal, state, local and foreign tax
regulators. With limited exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to income tax audits by taxing authorities for
periods before 2014. Tax authorities currently are examining certain income tax returns of Oaktree, with certain of
these examinations at an advanced stage. Over the next twelve months ending December 31, 2018, the Company
believes that it is reasonably possible that one outcome of these current examinations and expiring statutes of
limitation on other items may be the release of up to approximately $5.2 million of previously accrued Operating
Group income taxes. The Company believes that it has adequately provided for any reasonably foreseeable
outcomes related to its tax examinations and that any settlements related thereto will not have a material adverse
effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements; however, there can be no assurances as to the ultimate
outcomes.
Exchange Agreement and Tax Receivable Agreement
Subject to certain restrictions and the approval of the Company’s board of directors, each holder of OCGH
units has the right to exchange his or her vested units for, at the option of the Company’s board of directors, Class A
units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices and/or other consideration of equal
value. Certain of the Oaktree Operating Group entities made an election under Section 754 of the U.S. Internal
Revenue Code, as amended, which may result in an adjustment to the tax basis of the assets owned by the
Oaktree Operating Group at the time of an exchange. These exchanges may result in increases in tax deductions
and tax basis that would reduce the amount of tax that Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. would
otherwise be required to pay in the future.
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. have entered into a tax receivable agreement with
OCGH unitholders that, as amended, provides for the payment to an exchanging or selling OCGH unitholder of 85%
of the amount of cash savings, if any, in U.S. federal, state, local and foreign income taxes that they actually realize
(or are deemed to realize in the case of an early termination payment by Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF
Holdings, Inc., or a change of control) as a result of an increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by the Oaktree
Operating Group. When an exchange of OCGH units results in an increase to the tax basis of the assets owned by
the Oaktree Operating Group, a deferred tax asset and an associated liability for payments to OCGH unitholders
under the tax receivable agreement are recorded, subject to realizability considerations. The establishment of a
deferred tax asset increases additional paid-in capital because the transactions are between Oaktree and its
unitholders.
Assuming no further material changes in the relevant tax law and that the Company earns sufficient taxable
income to realize the full tax benefit of the increased amortization of the assets, the expected future payments to
OCGH unitholders under the tax receivable agreement, as of December 31, 2017, are estimated to aggregate $17.3
million over the period ending approximately in 2029 with respect to the 2007 Private Offering, $36.8 million over the
period ending approximately in 2034 with respect to the initial public offering, $51.1 million over the period ending
approximately in 2035 with respect to the public offering in May 2013, $38.6 million over the period ending
approximately in 2036 with respect to the public offering in March 2014, $32.5 million over the period ending
approximately in 2037 with respect to the public offering in March 2015, and $34.3 million over the period ending
approximately in 2040 with respect to the public offering in February 2018. Future estimated payments to OCGH
unitholders under the tax receivable agreement are subject to increase in the event of additional exchanges of
OCGH units.
In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, $20.0 million, $18.8 million and $15.7
million were paid under the tax receivable agreement.
182
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
16. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
In the normal course of business, Oaktree enters into contracts that contain certain representations,
warranties and indemnifications. The Company’s exposure under these arrangements would involve future claims
that have not yet been asserted. Inasmuch as no such claims currently exist or are expected to arise, the Company
has not accrued any liability in connection with these indemnifications.
Legal Actions
Oaktree, its affiliates, investment professionals, and portfolio companies are routinely involved in litigation
and other legal actions in the ordinary course of their business and investing activities. In addition, Oaktree is
subject to the authority of a number of U.S. and non-U.S. regulators, including the SEC and the Financial Industry
Regulatory Authority, and those authorities periodically conduct examinations of Oaktree and make other inquiries
that may result in the commencement of regulatory proceedings against Oaktree and its personnel. Oaktree is
currently not subject to any pending actions or regulatory proceedings that either individually or in the aggregate are
expected to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
Incentive Income
In addition to the incentive income recognized by the Company, certain of its funds have amounts recorded
as potentially allocable to the Company as its share of potential future incentive income, based on each fund’s net
asset value. Inasmuch as this incentive income is contingent upon future investment activity and other factors, it is
not recognized by the Company until it is fixed or determinable. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively,
the aggregate of such amounts recorded at the fund level in excess of incentive income recognized by the
Company was $1,918,952 and $1,970,755, for which related direct incentive income compensation expense was
estimated to be $1,000,232 and $1,026,345.
Contingent Liabilities
The Company has a contingent consideration obligation of up to $60.0 million related to the Highstar
acquisition, payable in cash and fully-vested OCGH units. The amount of contingent consideration is based on the
achievement of certain performance targets over a period of up to seven years from the acquisition date of August
2014. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the fair value of the contingent consideration liability was $18.8 million
and $23.6 million, respectively. Changes in this liability resulted in income of $4.8 million and $4.9 million in 2017
and 2016, respectively, and expense of $1.2 million in 2015. The fair value of the contingent consideration liability is
a Level III valuation, which uses a discounted cash-flow analysis based on a probability-weighted average estimate
of certain performance targets, including fundraising and revenue levels. The assumptions used in the analysis are
inherently subjective, and thus the ultimate amount of the contingent consideration liability may differ materially from
the most recent estimate. The contingent consideration liability is included in accounts payable, accrued expenses
and other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Changes in the liability are recorded in
general and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
In connection with the October 2017 BDC acquisition, the Company recorded a $56.2 million contingent
liability and a $56.2 million indemnification asset as part of the purchase price allocation. Please see note 3 for
more information.
Commitments to Funds
As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company, generally in its capacity as general partner, had undrawn
capital commitments of $429.1 million and $565.4 million, respectively, including commitments to both
unconsolidated and consolidated funds. Please see note 10 for information on the standby letter of credit the
Company has agreed to guarantee on behalf of one of the investment funds that it manages.
183
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Operating Leases
Oaktree leases its main headquarters office in Los Angeles and offices in 17 other cities in the U.S., Europe,
Asia and Australia, pursuant to current lease terms expiring through 2030. Occupancy costs, including non-lease
expenses, were $20,477, $22,637 and $19,305 for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015,
respectively.
As of December 31, 2017, aggregate estimated minimum commitments under Oaktree’s operating leases
were as follows:
2018 ......................................................................................................................................................................... $
2019 .........................................................................................................................................................................
2020 .........................................................................................................................................................................
2021 .........................................................................................................................................................................
2022 .........................................................................................................................................................................
Thereafter
................................................................................................................................................................
17,775
18,192
17,576
15,052
14,576
74,628
Total
......................................................................................................................................................................... $
157,799
Investment Commitments of the Consolidated Funds
Certain of the consolidated funds are parties to credit arrangements that provide for the issuance of letters
of credit and/or revolving loans, which may require the particular fund to extend loans to investee companies. The
consolidated funds use the same investment criteria in making these commitments as they do for investments that
are included in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The unfunded liability associated with these
credit arrangements is equal to the amount by which the contractual loan commitment exceeds the sum of funded
debt and cash held in escrow, if any. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the consolidated funds had potential
aggregate commitments of $6.0 million and $2.1 million, respectively. These commitments are expected to be
funded by the funds’ cash balances, proceeds from asset sales or drawdowns against existing capital commitments.
A consolidated fund may agree to guarantee the repayment obligations of certain investee companies. As
of December 31, 2017 and 2016, there were no guaranteed amounts under such arrangements.
Certain consolidated funds are investment companies that are required to disclose financial support
provided or contractually required to be provided to any of their portfolio companies. During the year ended
December 31, 2017, the consolidated funds did not provide any financial support to portfolio companies.
17. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Oaktree provides certain employee benefits, including a voluntary 401(k) savings plan for which the
Company makes an annual profit sharing contribution equal to up to 4.5% of total compensation for employees
below certain compensation levels and up to 13.3% of total compensation, subject to prescribed limits, for
employees meeting certain eligibility requirements. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, the
Company incurred expenses of $9.3 million, $8.8 million and $9.1 million, respectively, in connection with the plan.
Oaktree also has a discretionary annual bonus program for all employees, which is based, in part, on adjusted net
income.
184
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
18. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Company considers its senior executives, employees and unconsolidated Oaktree funds to be affiliates
(as defined in the FASB ASC Master Glossary). Amounts due from and to affiliates are set forth below. The fair
value of amounts due from and to affiliates is a Level III valuation and was valued based on a discounted cash-flow
analysis. The carrying value of amounts due from affiliates approximated fair value due to their short-term nature or
because their average interest rate, which ranged from 2.0% to 3.0%, approximated the Company’s cost of debt.
The fair value of amounts due to affiliates approximated $93,772 and $164,335 as of December 31, 2017 and 2016,
respectively, based on a discount rate of 10.0%.
As of December 31,
2017
2016
Due from affiliates:
Loans ....................................................................................................................................... $
Amounts due from unconsolidated funds ..................................................................................
Management fees and incentive income due from unconsolidated funds .................................
Payments made on behalf of unconsolidated entities ...............................................................
Non-interest bearing advances made to certain non-controlling interest holders and
employees ............................................................................................................................
9,239
$
57,155
152,959
3,784
19,325
53,573
130,708
3,779
87
1,258
Total due from affiliates ...................................................................................................... $
223,224
$
208,643
Due to affiliates:
Due to OCGH unitholders in connection with the tax receivable agreement (please see note
15)
........................................................................................................................................ $
176,283
Amounts due to senior executives, certain non-controlling interest holders and employees .....
1,590
Total due to affiliates .......................................................................................................... $
177,873
$
$
340,966
5,577
346,543
Loans
Loans primarily consist of interest-bearing loans made to certain non-controlling interest holders, primarily
certain employees, to meet tax obligations related to vesting of equity awards. The loans, which are generally
recourse to the borrower or secured by vested equity and other collateral, typically bear interest at the Company’s
cost of debt and generated interest income of $451, $906 and $2,144 for the years ended December 31, 2017,
2016 and 2015, respectively.
Due From Oaktree Funds and Portfolio Companies
In the normal course of business, the Company advances certain expenses on behalf of Oaktree funds.
Amounts advanced on behalf of consolidated funds are eliminated in consolidation. Certain expenses paid by the
Company, which typically are employee travel and other costs associated with particular portfolio company holdings,
are reimbursed to the Company by the portfolio companies.
Revenues Earned From Oaktree Funds
Management fees and incentive income earned from unconsolidated Oaktree funds totaled $1.4 billion, $1.0
billion and $75.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Other Investment Transactions
The Company’s senior executives, directors and senior professionals are permitted to invest their own capital
(or the capital of family trusts or other estate planning vehicles they control) in Oaktree funds, for which they pay the
particular fund’s full management fee but not its incentive allocation. To facilitate the funding of capital calls by
funds in which employees are invested, the Company periodically advances on a short-term basis the capital calls
on certain employees’ behalf. These advances are reimbursed generally toward the end of the calendar quarter in
which the capital calls occurred. Amounts advanced by the Company are included in the table above within “non-
interest bearing advances made to certain non-controlling interest holders and employees.”
185
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
Aircraft Services
The Company owns an aircraft for business purposes. Howard Marks, the Company’s co-chairman, may
use this aircraft for personal travel and will reimburse the Company to the extent his use of the aircraft for personal
travel exceeds a certain threshold pursuant to a Company policy adopted as of January 1, 2017. The Company
also provides certain senior executives a personal travel allowance for aircraft usage up to a certain threshold.
Additionally, the Company occasionally makes use of an aircraft owned by one of its senior executives for business
purposes at a price to the Company that is based on market rates.
Special Allocations
Certain senior executives receive special allocations based on a percentage of profits of the Oaktree
Operating Group. These special allocations, which are recorded as compensation expense, are made on a current
basis for so long as they remain senior executives of the Company, with limited exceptions.
19. CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS OF REGULATED ENTITIES
One of the Company’s indirect subsidiaries is a registered U.S. broker-dealer that is subject to the minimum
net capital requirements of the SEC and the U.S. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Additionally, one of the
Company’s indirect subsidiaries based in London is subject to the capital requirements of the U.K. Financial
Conduct Authority, and another based in Hong Kong is subject to the capital requirements of the Hong Kong
Securities and Futures Ordinance. These entities operate in excess of their respective regulatory capital
requirements.
The regulatory capital requirements referred to above may restrict the Company’s ability to withdraw capital
from its entities for purposes such as paying cash distributions or advances to the Company. As of December 31,
2017 and 2016, respectively, there was approximately $115.5 million and $92.8 million of such potentially restricted
amounts.
20. SEGMENT REPORTING
As a global investment manager, the Company provides investment management services through funds
and separate accounts. The Company earns revenues from the management fees and incentive income generated
by the funds that it manages. Management uses a consolidated approach to assess performance and allocate
resources. As such, the Company’s business is comprised of one segment, the investment management business.
The Company conducts its investment management business primarily in the United States, where substantially all
of its revenues are generated.
186
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)
December 31, 2017
($ in thousands, except where noted)
21. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On February 6, 2018, the Company declared a distribution attributable to the fourth quarter of 2017 of $0.76
per Class A unit, bringing aggregate distributions relating to fiscal year 2017 to $3.34. The distribution of $0.76 was
paid on February 23, 2018 to Class A unitholders of record at the close of business on February 16, 2018.
On February 12, 2018, the Company issued and sold 5,000,000 Class A units in a public offering, resulting
in $219.5 million in net proceeds to the Company. The Company did not retain any proceeds from the sale of Class
A units in this offering. The proceeds were used to acquire interests in the Company’s business from certain of the
Company’s directors, employees and other investors, including certain senior executives and other members of the
Company’s senior management.
22. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2017
June 30, 2017
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2017
Revenues .............................................................................. $
Expenses ...............................................................................
Other income .........................................................................
77,110
Income before income taxes .................................................. $
174,133
Net income ............................................................................ $
161,831
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ......... $
Net income per unit (basic and diluted):
54,915
Net income per Class A unit ................................................... $
Distributions declared per Class A unit ................................... $
0.87
0.63
289,585
$
634,055
$
235,032
$
311,095
(192,562)
(423,426)
(169,773)
(239,582)
90,355
300,984
295,443
117,324
1.83
0.71
$
$
$
$
$
82,975
148,234
134,377
45,841
0.71
1.31
$
$
$
$
$
210,060
281,573
97,831
13,414
0.21
0.56
$
$
$
$
$
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
June 30, 2016
September 30,
2016
December 31,
2016
254,490
$
282,716
$
290,230
$
298,310
(185,184)
(191,648)
(202,339)
(210,165)
26,542
95,848
83,168
28,078
58,337
149,405
140,834
49,047
0.78
0.55
$
$
$
$
$
89,499
177,390
168,823
58,297
0.93
0.58
$
$
$
$
$
97,834
185,979
173,278
59,283
0.94
0.65
$
$
$
$
$
Revenues .............................................................................. $
Expenses ...............................................................................
Other income .........................................................................
Income before income taxes .................................................. $
Net income ............................................................................ $
Net income attributable to Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ......... $
Net income per unit (basic and diluted):
Net income per Class A unit ................................................... $
Distributions declared per Class A unit ................................... $
0.45
0.47
187
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)
under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that
we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods
specified in SEC 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. In designing disclosure controls and procedures, our management necessarily was required to
apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible disclosure controls and procedures. The
design of any disclosure controls and procedures also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the
likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals
under all potential future conditions. Any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can
provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired objectives.
Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the
effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 under the Exchange Act as of the
end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) are effective at the reasonable assurance level
to accomplish their objectives of ensuring that information we are required to disclose in reports that we file or
submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified
in SEC 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.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
No changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and
15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during our most recent quarter, that have materially affected, or are
reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial
reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of management,
including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of our consolidated financial statements for external reporting
purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Our internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that pertain to the
maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of
assets; provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial
statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures are
being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors; and provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that
could have a material effect on our financial statements.
Our management conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2017 based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework 2013
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment,
management has determined that our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017 was
effective.
Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our financial statements
included in this annual report and has issued its attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2017, which is included in “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”
188
Item 9B. Other Information
None.
PART III.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Executive Officers and Directors
The following table sets forth information about our executive officers and directors as of February 23, 2018:
Name
Howard S. Marks .................
Position
Age
71 Director and Co-Chairman
Bruce A. Karsh .....................
62 Director, Co-Chairman and Chief Investment Officer
Jay S. Wintrob......................
60 Director and Chief Executive Officer
John B. Frank.......................
61 Director and Vice Chairman
Daniel D. Levin.....................
39 Chief Financial Officer
Susan Gentile ......................
51 Chief Accounting Officer and Managing Director
Sheldon M. Stone ................
65 Director and Principal
Robert E. Denham ...............
72 Director
Steven J. Gilbert ..................
70 Director
Larry W. Keele .....................
60 Director
D. Richard Masson ..............
59 Director
Wayne G. Pierson ................
67 Director
Marna C. Whittington ...........
70 Director
Todd E. Molz ........................
46 General Counsel, Chief Administrative Officer and Secretary
Howard S. Marks is our Co-Chairman and a co-founder and has been a director since May 2007. Since the
formation of Oaktree in 1995, Mr. Marks has been responsible for ensuring the firm’s adherence to its core
investment philosophy; communicating closely with clients concerning products and strategies; and contributing his
experience to big-picture decisions relating to investments and corporate direction. From 1985 until 1995, Mr.
Marks led the groups at The TCW Group, Inc. that were responsible for investments in distressed debt, high yield
bonds, and convertible securities. He was also Chief Investment Officer for Domestic Fixed Income at TCW.
Previously, Mr. Marks was with Citicorp Investment Management for 16 years, where from 1978 to 1985 he was
Vice President and senior portfolio manager in charge of convertible and high yield securities. Between 1969 and
1978, he was an equity research analyst and, subsequently, Citicorp’s Director of Research. Mr. Marks holds a
B.S.Ec. degree cum laude from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a major in finance and
an M.B.A. in accounting and marketing from the Booth School of Business of the University of Chicago, where he
received the George Hay Brown Prize. He is a CFA® charterholder. Mr. Marks is a member of the Investment
Committee of the Edmond J. Safra Foundation, and the Vice Chairman of the Investment Committee of the
Metropolitan Museum of Art; a Trustee of the Metropolitan Museum; Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Royal
Drawing School; and an Emeritus Trustee of the University of Pennsylvania (where from 2000 to 2010 he chaired
the Investment Board). With over 40 years of investment experience, Mr. Marks’s extensive expertise in our
industry, his perceptive market insights and his importance to our client development add value to our board of
directors.
189
Bruce A. Karsh is our Co-Chairman and one of the firm’s co-founders and has been a director since May
2007. He also is Chief Investment Officer and serves as portfolio manager for Oaktree’s Distressed Opportunities,
Value Opportunities and Multi-Strategy Credit strategies. Prior to co-founding Oaktree, Mr. Karsh was a managing
director of TCW Asset Management Company, and the portfolio manager of the Special Credits Funds from 1988
until 1995. Prior to joining TCW, Mr. Karsh worked as Assistant to the Chairman of SunAmerica, Inc. Prior to that,
he was an attorney with the law firm of O’Melveny & Myers. Before working at O’Melveny & Myers, Mr. Karsh
clerked for the Honorable Anthony M. Kennedy, then of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and presently
Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Mr. Karsh holds an A.B. degree in economics summa cum laude
from Duke University, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He went on to earn a J.D. from the University of
Virginia School of Law, where he served as Notes Editor of the Virginia Law Review and was a member of the
Order of the Coif. Mr. Karsh serves on the boards of a number of privately held companies. He is a member of the
investment committee of the Broad Foundations. Mr. Karsh is Trustee Emeritus of Duke University, having served
as Trustee from 2003 to 2015, and as Chairman of the Board of DUMAC, LLC, the entity that managed Duke’s
endowment, from 2005 to 2014. He previously served on the boards of Charter Communications, Inc.; Furniture
Brands International; KinderCare Learning Centers, Inc.; and Littelfuse Inc. Mr. Karsh is highly respected as one of
the leading portfolio managers in the area of distressed debt investing, one of our flagship investment strategies.
Additionally, Mr. Karsh’s extensive leadership and management skills and his current and past service on boards of
other public companies add value to our board of directors.
Jay S. Wintrob is our Chief Executive Officer and has served as a member of the Board of Directors since
September 2011. Prior to joining the firm as Chief Executive Officer, he was President and Chief Executive Officer
of AIG Life and Retirement, the U.S.-based life and retirement services segment of American International Group,
Inc., from 2009 to 2014. Following AIG’s acquisition of SunAmerica in 1998, Mr. Wintrob was Vice Chairman and
Chief Operating Officer of AIG Retirement Services, Inc. from 1998 to 2001, and President and Chief Executive
Officer from 2001 to 2009. Mr. Wintrob began his career in financial services in 1987 as Assistant to the Chairman
of SunAmerica Inc., and then went on to serve in several other executive positions, including President of
SunAmerica Investments, Inc. overseeing the company’s invested asset portfolio. Prior to joining SunAmerica, Mr.
Wintrob was with the law firm of O’Melveny & Myers. He received his B.A. and J.D. from the University of
California, Berkeley. Mr. Wintrob is a board member of several non-profit organizations, including The Broad
Foundations, The Broad (Contemporary Art Museum), The Doheny Eye Institute, The Los Angeles Music Center
and the Skirball Cultural Center. As our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Wintrob has broad responsibilities for our
business and his service on our board of directors helps ensure that our board is well informed about our
operations. Additionally, Mr. Wintrob’s investment and finance expertise and knowledge of our company add value
to our board of directors.
John B. Frank is our Vice Chairman and works closely with Messrs. Marks, Karsh and Wintrob in managing
the firm. He has been a director since May 2007. Mr. Frank joined in 2001 as General Counsel and was named
Oaktree’s Managing Principal in early 2006, a position which he held for about nine years. As Managing Principal,
Mr. Frank was the firm’s principal executive officer and responsible for all aspects of the firm’s management. Prior
thereto, Mr. Frank was a partner of the Los Angeles law firm of Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP, where he managed a
number of notable merger and acquisition transactions. While at that firm, he served as primary outside counsel to
a number of public and privately held corporations, and as special counsel to various boards of directors and
special board committees. Prior to joining Munger Tolles in 1984, Mr. Frank served as a law clerk to the Honorable
Frank M. Coffin of the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. Prior to attending law school, Mr. Frank
served as a Legislative Assistant to the Honorable Robert F. Drinan, Member of Congress. Mr. Frank holds a B.A.
degree with honors in history from Wesleyan University and a J.D. magna cum laude from the University of
Michigan Law School, where he was Managing Editor of the Michigan Law Review and a member of the Order of
the Coif. He is a member of the State Bar of California and, while in private practice, was listed in Woodward &
White’s Best Lawyers in America. Mr. Frank is a member of the Board of Directors of Chevron Corporation and a
Trustee of Wesleyan University, Polytechnic School, Good Samaritan Hospital of Los Angeles and the XPRIZE
Foundation. Mr. Frank’s legal background and knowledge of our company add value to our board of directors.
Daniel D. Levin is our Chief Financial Officer. He was previously Head of Corporate Finance and Chief
Product Officer and a senior member of the corporate development group. Prior to joining Oaktree in 2011, Mr.
Levin was a vice president in the Investment Banking division at Goldman, Sachs & Co., focusing on asset
management firms and other financial institutions. His previous experience includes capital raising and mergers
and acquisitions roles at Technoserve and Robertson Stephens, Inc. Mr. Levin received an M.B.A. with honors in
finance from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a B.A. degree with honors in economics and
mathematics from Columbia University.
190
Susan Gentile is our Chief Accounting Officer and a Managing Director. Ms. Gentile joined Oaktree in 2013
from the Clorox Company, where she was most recently Controller and Chief Accounting Officer. Additionally, she
has held accounting, internal controls and financial reporting roles for Levi Strauss & Co.; Motorola, Inc.; and Next
Level Communications, Inc. Ms. Gentile began her career in the audit and assurance practice at Deloitte & Touche
LLP. She received her B.S. and B.A. degrees in finance from Boston University, School of Management. Ms.
Gentile is a Certified Public Accountant.
Sheldon M. Stone is a Principal and a co-founder and has been a director since May 2007. Mr. Stone is the
head of Oaktree’s high yield bond area. In this capacity, he serves as co-portfolio manager of Oaktree’s U.S. High
Yield Bond and Global High Yield Bond strategies and has supervisory responsibility for European High Yield
Bonds. Mr. Stone, a co-founding member of Oaktree in 1995, established TCW’s High Yield Bond department with
Mr. Marks in 1985 and ran the department for ten years. Prior to joining TCW, Mr. Stone worked with Mr. Marks at
Citibank for two years where he performed credit analysis and managed high yield bond portfolios. From 1978 to
1983, Mr. Stone worked at The Prudential Insurance Company where he was a director of corporate finance,
managing a fixed income portfolio exceeding $1 billion. Mr. Stone holds a B.A. degree from Bowdoin College and
an M.B.A. in accounting and finance from Columbia University. Mr. Stone serves as a Trustee of Colonial
Williamsburg Foundation and serves on the investment committee of Bowdoin College. With over 35 years of
experience in the fixed income markets, Mr. Stone brings a wealth of knowledge to the board of directors. As one of
our co-founders, he is also closely familiar with our business. His investment background and insights into the fixed
income markets add value to our board of directors.
Robert E. Denham has been a director since December 2007. Mr. Denham is a partner in the law firm of
Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP, having rejoined the firm as a partner in 1998 to advise clients on strategic and financial
issues, after serving as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Salomon Inc. Mr. Denham joined Salomon in
late August 1991 as General Counsel of Salomon and its subsidiary, Salomon Brothers, and became Chairman and
CEO of Salomon in June 1992. Prior to joining Salomon, Mr. Denham had been at Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP for
twenty years, including five years as managing partner. Mr. Denham graduated magna cum laude from the
University of Texas, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He received a master’s degree in government from
Harvard University in 1968, and a J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1971, where he graduated magna cum laude
and was a Case and Developments Editor of the Harvard Law Review. Mr. Denham is a member of the California,
American and Los Angeles County Bar Associations. Mr. Denham serves on the Board of Directors of MDRC and
the James Irvine Foundation (Vice Chairman) and is a trustee of the Good Samaritan Hospital of Los Angeles (Vice
Chairman). He is also a public member of the Professional Ethics Executive Committee of the American Institute of
Certified Public Accountants. Mr. Denham presently serves on the boards of the Chevron Corporation, Fomento
Economico Mexicano, S.A. de CV (FEMSA) and The New York Times. Mr. Denham previously served on the board
of Wesco Financial Corporation and UGL Limited. Mr. Denham has served as a member of the board of directors of
a number of publicly traded companies and, therefore, is experienced with board responsibilities, oversight and
control which will benefit our board of directors. Mr. Denham also provides a broader range of expertise on the
board of directors given his background as a corporate lawyer and a former chief executive officer of a global
financial services company, where among other responsibilities, he chaired the risk management committee.
Steven J. Gilbert has been a director since October 2016. He is the founder and Chairman of the Board of
Gilbert Global Equity Partners, L.P., an institutional investment firm established in 1997. In addition, Mr. Gilbert also
founded Soros Capital, Commonwealth Capital Partners, and Chemical Venture Partners. He currently serves as
Vice Chairman of the Executive Board of MidOcean Equity Partners, LP and Co-Chairman of Birch Grove Capital,
and has served on the boards of more than 25 companies over the span of his career. Mr. Gilbert received a J.D.
degree from Harvard Law School, an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School, and a B.S. in economics from the
Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Gilbert’s investment and finance expertise add value to our
board of directors.
Larry W. Keele has been a director since May 2007. Prior to his retirement in 2015, Mr. Keele was a co-
founder and Principal of Oaktree, where for over 20 years, he served as a portfolio manager and head of the
Convertible Securities group. From 1986 to 1995, Mr. Keele managed Trust Company of the West’s Convertible
Value portfolios. Prior to joining TCW, Mr. Keele organized and managed the NationsBank Equity Income Fund, a
commingled fund specializing in convertible securities and high yielding equities. He also served as a Security
Analyst and Institutional Portfolio Manager. Mr. Keele holds a B.B.A. degree in Finance from Tennessee
Technological University and an M.B.A. in Finance from the University of South Carolina. He is a CFA
charterholder. Mr. Keele’s investment and finance expertise and his familiarity with our company add value to our
board of directors and to our business. Mr. Keele has extensive experience in that asset class. As one of our co-
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founders, he is also closely familiar with our business. His investment background and insights to the convertible
markets add value to our board of directors.
D. Richard Masson has been a director since May 2007. Prior to his retirement from Oaktree in 2009,
Mr. Masson was a co-founder and Principal of Oaktree, where he served as head of analysis for the Distressed
Debt strategy from 1995 to 2001 and as co-head of analysis from 2001 to 2009. Prior thereto, he was Managing
Director of TCW and its affiliate, TCW Asset Management Company, and head of the Special Credits Analytical
Group. Prior to joining TCW in 1988, Mr. Masson worked for three years at Houlihan, Lokey, Howard and
Zukin, Inc., where he was responsible for the valuation and analysis of securities and businesses. Prior to
Houlihan, Mr. Masson was a senior accountant with the Comprehensive Professional Services Group at Price
Waterhouse in Los Angeles. Mr. Masson holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of California at
Berkeley and an M.B.A. in finance from the University of California at Los Angeles. He is a Certified Public
Accountant (inactive). Mr. Masson’s investment and finance expertise and his familiarity with our company add
value to our board of directors.
Wayne G. Pierson has been a director since November 2007. Mr. Pierson currently serves as President of
Acorn Investors, LLC, an investor in OCGH which consists of six longstanding Oaktree clients who became
institutional investors in Oaktree in February 2004. Mr. Pierson retired from Meyer Memorial Trust (a member of
Acorn Investors, LLC) after 32 years as the Chief Financial & Investment Officer. Prior to joining Meyer Memorial
Trust, Mr. Pierson served as treasurer of Gregory Affiliates from 1980 until 1982. From 1973 until 1980, he served
as an audit supervisor with Ernst & Young. Mr. Pierson initiated and conducted a comprehensive investment survey
for the Foundation Financial Officers Group, representing more than 160 foundations with assets totaling
approximately $250 billion for over 20 years. He has served on a number of private equity fund advisory boards
and was a trustee for several private trusts. In addition, he serves on the board of directors of M Fund, Inc. and is a
principal with Clifford Capital Partners, LLC. Mr. Pierson received a B.S. in business administration cum laude from
California State University, Northridge and is a Certified Public Accountant and CFA charterholder. Mr. Pierson’s
investment and finance expertise and his familiarity with our company add value to our board of directors.
Marna C. Whittington, Ph.D., has been a director since June 2012. Ms. Whittington was the Chief
Executive Officer of Allianz Global Investors Capital from 2001 until her retirement in January 2012. From 2002 to
2011, she was Chief Operating Officer of Allianz Global Investors, the parent company of Allianz Global Investors
Capital. Prior to that, she was Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Morgan Stanley Investment
Management. Ms. Whittington started in the investment management industry in 1992, joining Philadelphia-based
Miller Anderson & Sherrerd. Previously, she was Executive Vice President and CFO of the University of
Pennsylvania, and earlier, Secretary of Finance for the State of Delaware. Ms. Whittington currently serves as a
director of Macy’s, Inc. and Phillips 66. She holds an M.S. degree and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh,
both in quantitative methods, and a B.A. degree in mathematics from the University of Delaware. Ms. Whittington’s
investment and finance expertise and her familiarity with our company add value to our board of directors.
Todd E. Molz is our General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer. He oversees the Compliance,
Internal Audit and Administration functions and all aspects of our legal activities, including fund formation,
acquisitions and other special projects. Prior to joining the firm in 2006, Mr. Molz was a partner of the Los Angeles
law firm of Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP, where his practice focused on tax and structuring aspects of complex and
novel business transactions. Prior to joining Munger Tolles, Mr. Molz served as a law clerk to the Honorable Alfred
T. Goodwin of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Mr. Molz received a B.A. degree in political
science cum laude from Middlebury College and a J.D. degree with honors from the University of Chicago. While at
Chicago, Mr. Molz served on the Law Review, received the John M. Olin Student Fellowship and was a member of
the Order of the Coif. Mr. Molz serves on the Board of Trustees of the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
There are no family relationships among any of our executive officers and directors.
Board Structure and Governance
Composition of Our Board of Directors
Our operating agreement establishes a board of directors responsible for the oversight of our business and
operations. So long as the Oaktree control condition is satisfied, the number of directors that comprise our board of
directors is determined from time to time by our manager. Our board of directors consists of Messrs. Marks, Karsh,
Wintrob, Frank, Stone, Masson, Denham, Gilbert, Keele and Pierson and Ms. Whittington (for a total of 11
directors). Actions by our board of directors must be taken with the approval of a majority of its members. So long
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as the Oaktree control condition is satisfied, our manager is entitled to designate all the members of our board of
directors.
Control of Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC
Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC acts as our manager and is the general partner of OCGH, which
owns 100% of our outstanding Class B units. Under its operating agreement, Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP,
LLC is managed by an executive committee that is comprised of our senior executives. In general, the executive
committee seeks to act by consensus or, absent a consensus, by a vote of a majority of the voting percentage of
the executive committee members (or such higher threshold as may be determined from time to time by the
executive committee). The executive committee also, from time to time, delegates to one or more of its members or
to other persons such authority and duties as the executive committee may deem advisable. Oaktree Capital
Group Holdings GP, LLC has agreed that the admission of any member who is not a “principal” as defined under its
operating agreement is prohibited.
The voting percentage of each member of the executive committee is equal to the fraction, expressed as a
percentage, the numerator of which is his percentage interest in OCGH and the denominator of which is the
aggregate percentage interest of all of the executive committee members in OCGH. Accordingly, members with
larger economic stakes in the Oaktree Operating Group (including Messrs. Marks, Karsh and Stone) are able to
exercise greater voting power than members with smaller economic stakes on any matter submitted to the
executive committee for a vote. The combined voting percentages of Messrs. Marks and Karsh by themselves are
sufficient, for the foreseeable future, to constitute a majority of the voting percentage of the executive committee
members.
Controlled Company Exemption
Under the NYSE rules, a company of which more than 50% of the voting power is held by an individual,
group or another company is a “controlled company” and may elect not to comply with certain NYSE corporate
governance standards. Because our senior executives hold more than 50% of our voting power, we are therefore a
“controlled company.” As a result, we have elected not to comply with certain NYSE corporate governance
standards, including the requirement that a majority of the board of directors consist of independent directors and
the requirement to have a compensation committee and a nominating/corporate governance committee that are
composed entirely of independent directors with written charters addressing the committee’s purpose and
responsibilities. In addition, we are not required to hold annual meetings of our unitholders. Accordingly, our Class
A unitholders do not have the same protections afforded to shareholders of companies that are subject to all of the
NYSE corporate governance requirements.
Audit Committee
The purpose of the audit committee is to assist our board of directors in overseeing and monitoring the
quality and integrity of our financial statements, our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the
performance of our internal audit function and our independent registered public accounting firm’s qualifications,
independence and performance. Our audit committee is comprised of Messrs. Gilbert, Masson and Pierson and
Ms. Whittington. Our board of directors has determined that Messrs. Gilbert, Masson and Pierson and Ms.
Whittington meet the independence standards and financial literacy requirements for service on an audit committee
of a board of directors under Rule 10A-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act and the NYSE rules. In addition, our
board of directors has determined that each of Messrs. Gilbert, Masson and Pierson and Ms. Whittington is an
“audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of Item 407(d)(5) of Regulation S-K and has “accounting or
related financial management expertise” under applicable NYSE rules. The audit committee has a charter that is
available on our website at www.oaktreecapital.com under the “Unitholders – Investor Relations” section.
Executive Committee
Our board of directors has established an executive committee of the Company that acts, when necessary, in
place of our full board of directors during intervals between meetings of our board of directors. This executive
committee consists of Messrs. Marks, Karsh, Wintrob and Frank.
Code of Ethics
We have a Code of Ethics, which applies to our directors, executive officers and employees and is available
on our website at www.oaktreecapital.com under the “Unitholders – Investor Relations” section. We intend to
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disclose any amendment to or waiver of the Code of Ethics on behalf of a director or executive officer either on our
website or in a Current Report on Form 8-K filing.
Corporate Governance Guidelines
Our board of directors has a governance policy, which addresses matters such as the board of directors’
responsibilities and duties, the board of directors’ composition, policies and compensation and director
independence, and is available on our website at www.oaktreecapital.com under the “Unitholders – Investor
Relations” section.
Communications to the Board of Directors
The non-management members of our board of directors meet quarterly. The non-management directors
have currently selected Mr. Pierson, one of our non-management directors, to lead these meetings for 2018. All
interested parties, including any employee or unitholder, may send communications to the non-management
members of our board of directors by writing to: Oaktree Capital Group, LLC, Attn: General Counsel, 333 South
Grand Avenue, 28th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our executive officers and directors and persons who
beneficially own more than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities to file initial reports of ownership
and reports of changes in ownership with the SEC and furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. To
our knowledge, based solely on our review of the copies of such reports furnished to us or written representations
from such persons that they were not required to file a Form 5 to report previously unreported ownership or
changes in ownership, we believe that, with respect to the year ended December 31, 2017, such persons complied
with all such filing requirements.
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Item 11. Executive Compensation
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Overview of Compensation Philosophy and Program
Our fundamental philosophy in compensating our key personnel has always been, and continues to be, to
align their interests with the interests of our clients and unitholders and to motivate and reward long-term
performance. The alignment of interests is a defining characteristic of our business and one that we believe best
optimizes long-term sustainable value.
With respect to our compensation program, we have generally established a uniform approach to the mix of
our employees’ compensation between base salary and discretionary cash bonus and, for certain employees whose
total compensation exceeds certain levels (including certain of our named executive officers, as discussed in more
detail below), annual equity grants.
Our employees whose total annual compensation (excluding payments in respect of carried interest) is $/£/
€300,000 or greater receive annual equity grants that are a fixed percentage of the employee’ s total compensation.
We want equity awards to be a set and predictable part of our more highly compensated employees’ annual
compensation and we believe that using a fixed formula for the size of annual equity grants based on an employee’s
total compensation range makes the process simpler and more transparent and aligns more of our employees with
the interests of our unitholders.
The following individuals were our named executive officers (“NEOs”) for fiscal year 2017: (a) Bruce A.
Karsh, our Co-Chairman and Chief Investment Officer; (b) Jay S. Wintrob, our Chief Executive Officer; (c) Daniel D.
Levin, who became our Chief Financial Officer on April 1, 2017; (d) David M. Kirchheimer, our Chief Financial
Officer before April 1, 2017 and who retired on March 31, 2017; (e) John B. Frank, our Vice Chairman; and (f) Todd
E. Molz, our General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer.
Compensation Elements for Named Executive Officers
Our NEOs have different compensation arrangements. The following table identifies the different
compensation elements used in each arrangement:
NEO
Bruce A. Karsh
Jay S. Wintrob
Daniel D. Levin
David M. Kirchheimer
John B. Frank
Todd E. Molz
Compensation Elements
Base Salary
Annual Bonus
Equity Grants
Base salary
Annual bonus
Equity grants
Other than base salary and annual equity grants, which we described above, we first discuss the other
compensation elements of our NEOs generally, then we discuss each NEO’s compensation arrangement
individually.
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Indirect Ownership of the Oaktree Operating Group
All of our executive officers, including our NEOs, have indirect equity stakes in the Oaktree Operating
Group through their holdings of OCGH units and/or Class A units and, in the case of Mr. Wintrob, also through his
holdings of EVUs. Equity grants further align the interests of our NEOs with those of our unitholders.
OCGH Units
OCGH units entitle our NEOs to a portion of the aggregate earnings of the Oaktree Operating Group, which
allows our NEOs to realize appreciation in the value of our units by, subject to the approval of our board of directors,
exchanging such units for Class A units, which they can sell. For purposes of our financial statements, we treat
distributions paid on the OCGH units as distributions on equity rather than as compensation, and therefore these
payments are not reflected in the Summary Compensation Table below. As described under “Certain Relationships
and Related Transactions, and Director Independence—Exchange Agreement,” subject to certain restrictions, each
OCGH unitholder will have the right, subject to the approval of our board of directors, to exchange his or her OCGH
units into Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration
of equal value or any combination of the foregoing as determined by our board of directors pursuant to the terms of
an exchange agreement. In addition, the general partner of OCGH may at its sole discretion cause a mandatory
sale or exchange of OCGH units owned by any OCGH unitholder.
The OCGH units are subject to vesting, based on the employee’s continued service over a vesting schedule
(typically, ratable over 10 years) after the grant. Our NEOs will forfeit all their unvested OCGH units when they
leave Oaktree for any reason unless the departure is due to death, disability, or, for certain awards, termination
without cause, in which case all unvested units automatically vest in full, or if the forfeiture requirement is waived by
us. All of our NEOs are subject to transfer restrictions in respect of their OCGH units by virtue of the fact that each
of our NEOs must obtain board approval to exchange their OCGH units for Class A units, which may be sold, or the
equivalent amount of cash as discussed above.
Class A Units
Our Class A units also entitle our NEOs to a portion of the aggregate earnings of the Oaktree Operating
Group. However, unlike our OCGH units, the Class A units are publicly traded and listed on the New York Stock
Exchange, which allows our NEOs to realize the value of vested Class A units directly through the market during
certain open windows in which our NEOs are permitted to sell the Class A units in their discretion. For purposes of
our financial statements, we treat distributions paid on our Class A units as distributions on equity rather than as
compensation, and therefore these payments are not reflected in the Summary Compensation Table below.
As discussed above, certain of our employees (including certain of our NEOs) receive annual equity grants
that are a fixed percentage of the employee’s total compensation. These grants are generally made in the form of
our Class A units. From time to time, however, we will also make a supplemental equity grant to certain of our
NEOs in the form of Class A units. Mr. Wintrob determines the amount of such supplemental equity awards based
on various factors, including an increase in the individual’s role and responsibility or the individual’s overall
performance and contribution to the firm. Supplemental grants of Class A units are subject to vesting, based on the
NEO’s continued service over a vesting schedule after the grant (typically, ratable over either 4 years or 10 years).
Our NEOs will forfeit all their unvested Class A units when they leave Oaktree for any reason unless the departure
is due to death, disability, or, for certain awards, termination without cause, in which case all unvested units
automatically vest in full, or if the forfeiture requirement is waived by us.
Grants of Units Under the 2011 Plan
Since the adoption of the Oaktree Capital Group, LLC 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (our “2011 Plan”), all
grants of equity-based awards to be made to our NEOs, whether of OCGH units, Class A units or EVUs, are being
made pursuant to the terms and conditions of the 2011 Plan.
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As of December 31, 2017, our NEOs beneficially owned the following number of OCGH units, EVUs, and
Class A units:
Name
Number of
OCGH Units (1)
Number of
EVUs
Number of
Class A Units
Total Number
of Units
Percentage of
Beneficial
Ownership of
Oaktree
Operating
Group
Bruce A. Karsh ..................................................... 17,265,767
—
101,826
17,367,593
11.1%
Jay S. Wintrob ......................................................
225,000
2,000,000
Daniel D. Levin .....................................................
—
David M. Kirchheimer ...........................................
1,407,097
John B. Frank .......................................................
2,058,094
Todd E. Molz ........................................................
200,304
—
—
—
—
99,079
77,006
33,471
41,667
98,717
2,324,079
77,006
1,440,568
2,099,761
299,021
*
*
*
1.3%
*
Less than 1%
*
(1) Following the May 2007 Restructuring, the OCGH unitholders’ interests in OCGH continued to take into account any
disproportionate sharing in historical incentive income in accordance with the terms of the OCGH limited partnership
agreement that were in effect prior to the May 2007 Restructuring. As a result, distributions to the OCGH unitholders by
OCGH that are attributable to historical incentive income (i.e., attributable to funds formed before 2007) are not made pro
rata in proportion to the OCGH unitholders’ interest in OCGH units but instead will be adjusted to account for the
disproportionate sharing of historical incentive income. The figures included in this table do not reflect an NEO’s rights to
historical incentive income, if applicable.
Profit Sharing Arrangements
We paid three of our NEOs a certain percentage of our profits comprised of fee-related earnings, net
investment income and net incentive income with certain adjustments.
Carried Interest or Incentive Income
Two of our NEOs receive a portion of the incentive income generated by our funds through their
participation interests in the carry pools generated by the general partners of these funds. The carry pools (and our
NEOs’ participation therein) are referred to as our “Carry Plans.” Under the terms of our closed-end funds, we (and
our employees who share in our carried interest) are generally not entitled to carried interest distributions (other
than tax distributions) until the investors in our funds have received a return of all contributed capital plus a
preferred return, which is typically 8%. Because the aggregate amount of carried interest payable through our
Carry Plans is directly tied to the realized performance of the funds, we believe this fosters a strong alignment of
interests among the investors in those funds and these NEOs, and therefore benefits both those investors and our
unitholders.
Participation in carried interest is a primary means of compensating and motivating many of our investment
professionals. We believe such participation is one of the most effective ways to align the interests of our
investment professionals with our clients and unitholders. Mr. Wintrob determines the amount of incentive income
to grant in respect of a given fund based on the recommendation of the fund’s portfolio manager. In making such
recommendations, the portfolio manager typically takes into account each investment professional’s current and
projected role in the investment activities of the particular fund. In making these determinations, we consider a
multitude of factors, including the individual’s role in raising the particular fund, sourcing and evaluating potential
investment opportunities for the fund, managing and monitoring existing investments within the fund, running the
larger investment strategy and managing the investment and other professionals involved in the fund’s activities.
None of these factors is assigned a particular weighting when determining the amount of carried interest to grant to
a particular individual.
We expect to continue to use participation in carried interest as a cornerstone of compensation for our
investment professionals who manage closed-end funds. Grants of participation interests in incentive income for
our closed-end funds are made in each specific fund and are subject to vesting, which typically runs over five years,
with accelerated vesting for death, disability or termination without cause. Vesting serves as an employment
retention mechanism and thereby enhances the alignment of interests between a participant and us. We believe
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that vesting of participation in incentive income motivates participants to remain in our employ over the long term.
For purposes of our financial statements, we treat the income allocated to all of our personnel who have
participation interests in the incentive income generated by our funds as compensation, and the allocations of
incentive income earned by our NEOs in respect of 2017 are accordingly set forth under “All Other Compensation”
in the Summary Compensation Table below, even though they may not have received such amounts in cash.
The Carry Pools largely consist of the participation interests in certain of our investment funds paid to the
general partners of those funds, which in turn have granted a portion of such interests to our investment
professionals. Certain of our other investment funds and separate accounts that we manage also pay incentive
fees directly to certain members of the Oaktree Operating Group. Our NEOs with profit sharing arrangements will
also receive such incentive fees.
Compensation of the Individual NEOs
A. Bruce A. Karsh
A portion of the compensation earned by Mr. Karsh consists of carried interest we receive from certain of
our Distressed Debt funds, our largest closed-end strategy. Mr. Karsh received such carried interest as the portfolio
manager of these funds.
B. Jay S. Wintrob
We entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Wintrob for a term of employment that began on
November 1, 2014 and, subject to earlier termination, was scheduled to expire on December 31, 2019. In
recognition of Mr. Wintrob’s performance and to encourage his longer term commitment to the Company, on April
26, 2017 we extended the term of Mr. Wintrob’s employment agreement to March 31, 2022 (but still subject to
earlier termination as described in the agreement).
Pursuant to the employment agreement, Mr. Wintrob is entitled to receive certain profit sharing payments,
which may be settled in part in equity grants (discussed below). Mr. Wintrob also received an equity grant in 2014
comprised of a special form of partnership interest in OCGH that is currently only held by him, and referred to as
EVUs.
On April 26, 2017, in addition to extending the term of Mr. Wintrob’s employment agreement, we modified
the agreement to expand his profit sharing arrangement to include a share of the net incentive income from certain
funds that had their final close before Mr. Wintrob joined Oaktree (“pre-employment funds”). We also granted Mr.
Wintrob 225,000 OCGH units that vest pro rata over 10 years. At the same time, we amended the EVUs so that the
incremental amounts Mr. Wintrob receives as a result of these changes will reduce the amount Mr. Wintrob would
be entitled to, if any, with respect to his EVUs. We believe these modifications more fully align Mr. Wintrob’s
interests with those of our Class A unitholders and provide him with compensation levels that are competitive with
the range of compensation paid to other chief executive officers (or executives serving in a similar capacity) in the
asset management industry.
The three principal elements of Mr. Wintrob’s compensation are the equity grant of EVUs, the profit sharing
arrangement, and the 225,000 OCGH unit grant, which are described below.
EVU Grant to Mr. Wintrob
In connection with his appointment as our chief executive officer in 2014, Mr. Wintrob was awarded
2,000,000 EVUs under our 2011 Plan. Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs are different from the OCGH units held by members of
management because they are a form of partnership interest called profits interests and are not exchangeable for
our Class A units. They have value only to the extent certain distributions plus the value of our Class A units on the
relevant measurement dates exceed the applicable “Base Value,” which is (a) $61.00 for the performance period
January 1, 2015 – December 31, 2019, (b) $65.00 for the performance period January 1, 2015 – December 31,
2020 and (c) $69.00 for the performance period January 1, 2015 – December 31, 2021. The EVUs are structured
so that, at three fixed future dates, their value is measured and recapitalized into fully vested OCGH units, like those
held by other members of management. The EVU structure serves as an incentive for Mr. Wintrob to create value
in our Class A units and the level of cash distributions to OCGH units.
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Mr. Wintrob’s EVU award was amended in 2015 to extend the applicable performance period to include
three, rather than only one, future measurement date. The award was further amended on April 26, 2017 to
implement certain reductions from the EVU value for amounts received in respect of profit sharing payment
increases mentioned above and the 2017 OCGH unit grant.
The determination of how many OCGH units Mr. Wintrob will receive when the EVUs are recapitalized will
generally be made in three tranches after December 31, 2019, December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2021. The
recapitalizations could occur earlier, in the event of Mr. Wintrob’s termination due to death or disability, or upon
certain other acceleration events, which are discussed below under “Potential Payments Upon Termination of
Employment or Change in Control at 2017 Year End.” Except for certain distributions described below, Mr. Wintrob
will not realize any value from the EVUs unless and until such recapitalizations occur.
EVU Valuation and Recapitalization. The number of OCGH units that Mr. Wintrob will receive in respect of
the EVUs will generally be determined based on the appreciation of our Class A units and certain distributions made
with respect to OCGH units over the period beginning January 1, 2015 and ending on each of December 31, 2019,
December 31, 2020, and December 31, 2021, with one-third of the EVUs recapitalizing on each date. The number
of OCGH units into which the EVUs recapitalize on each date will be determined in a multi-step calculation.
• First, by calculating the excess (if any) of (A) the sum of (x) the volume-weighted average price of a
Class A unit over a period of 60 business days before and 60 business days after each of
December 31, 2019, December 31, 2020, and December 31, 2021 and (y) the aggregate cash
distributions made on a per-OCGH unit basis in respect of such period, excluding distributions
attributable to net incentive income from pre-employment funds, over (B) the Base Values of
$61.00, $65.00, and $69.00, respectively.
• Second, by multiplying such excess by one-third of 2,000,000 (the aggregate number of EVUs) on
each of the applicable recapitalization dates.
• Third, by reducing such amount by that portion of Mr. Wintrob’s profit sharing payments under his
employment agreement that are attributable to net incentive income from pre-employment funds
and payable (i) prior to December 31, 2019 with respect to the first recapitalization, (ii) during 2020
for the second recapitalization and (iii) from January 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022, for the third
recapitalization.
• Fourth, by reducing such amount by the excess of (i) any cash distributions attributable to the 2017
OCGH grant paid or payable to Mr. Wintrob over (ii) any portion of such amount that has been
applied to reduce the cash distributions paid or payable in respect of his EVUs (such EVU cash
distributions, and the manner in which they are reduced by cash distributions attributable to the
2017 OCGH Grant, as described below) over the following periods down to, but not below, zero: (x)
for the first recapitalization, the period beginning on the grant date of the 2017 OCGH grant and
ending on December, 31, 2019, (y) for the second recapitalization, the period beginning on January
1, 2020 and ending on December 31, 2020 and (z) for the third recapitalization, the period
beginning on January 1, 2021 and ending on March 31, 2022.
• Fifth, for the first recapitalization, by reducing such amount by the vested portion of the value of the
2017 OCGH grant. For this purpose the full value of the 2017 OCGH grant is assumed to be
$10,359,563, which is the product of 225,000 and the average daily closing price of a Class A unit
over the 20 trading day period preceding the grant date of the OCGH units.
• Sixth, for the first recapitalization, by reducing such amount by the unvested portion of the value of
the 2017 OCGH grant.
• Seventh, for the second and third recapitalizations, if, for the preceding recapitalization, the
calculation in the above steps resulted in a negative number, then any portion of reductions for the
pre-employment funds profit sharing payments, the cash distributions attributable to the 2017
OCGH Grant or the OCGH Grant Value (third through sixth steps above) that was not applied to
reduce the calculation below zero, is applied to reduce the calculation in this recapitalization.
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• Eighth, by dividing the result of the above calculation by the applicable volume-weighted average
price of a Class A unit described in the first step, above.
The third through seventh steps in the calculation above were added as part of the April 26, 2017 amendments to
Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs and employment agreement.
Distributions on EVUs. Commencing in 2016, Mr. Wintrob will also be eligible to receive cash distributions
in respect of the EVUs. The cash distributions are designed to deliver to Mr. Wintrob the same cash distributions he
would receive if he held a certain number of OCGH units (“reference OCGH units”), other than distributions
attributable to net incentive income for pre-employment funds. These distributions are designed to align his
interests with those of holders of OCGH units and Class A units and also to incentivize him to achieve certain
performance conditions in order to receive the distributions.
• The reference OCGH units are not real OCGH units; they represent a reference point for purposes of
calculating cash distributions only.
• The number of reference OCGH units based off of which the cash distributions are to be calculated is
determined by application of a vesting schedule (described below) and a performance condition. The
performance condition for each year is appreciation in value in a Class A unit and in the aggregate cash
distributions made on a per-OCGH unit basis over a pre-set hurdle.
• Once the number of reference OCGH units is determined for a given fiscal year (commencing with
2016), Mr. Wintrob will be entitled to receive, for each reference OCGH unit, the amount of the per-
OCGH unit distributions all OCGH unitholders otherwise receive for the applicable year.
• Pursuant to amendments to the EVU award, all distributions to which Mr. Wintrob becomes entitled will
be reduced, dollar-for-dollar, by any cash distributions attributable to the 2017 OCGH grant that Mr.
Wintrob has received prior to the date of payment of any EVU distributions, without duplication.
• Mr. Wintrob’s entitlement to cash distributions in one year does not mean he will be entitled to them in
the next year.
The calculation of the cash distributions is described more specifically below.
To be eligible to receive cash distributions in respect of any of 2016-2021, the sum of (x) the volume-
weighted average price of a Class A unit over a period of 60 business days before and 60 business days after the
end of the preceding fiscal year (the “end of year VWAP”) and (y) the aggregate cash distributions made on a per-
OCGH unit basis in respect of such fiscal year and, if applicable, all preceding fiscal years commencing with 2015,
excluding distributions attributable to net incentive income from certain Oaktree funds listed in Mr. Wintrob’s
employment agreement (“eligible cash distributions”), must exceed the pre-set hurdle for the year. If this
performance condition is not met, then Mr. Wintrob will not be entitled to any cash distributions in respect of the
EVUs for the year. If the condition is met, Mr. Wintrob will be entitled to cash distributions, in the amounts described
below.
The number of reference OCGH units with which Mr. Wintrob will be credited, and which determine the
value of his cash distributions in the year, will be:
•
2,000,000 EVUs (reduced to 1,333,334 with respect to 2020 and 666,667 with respect to 2021),
multiplied by
• Mr. Wintrob’s vested percentage in the EVUs as of the December 31 preceding the year of distribution,
multiplied by
•
the amount by which the end of year VWAP plus the eligible cash distributions exceeds the applicable
annual hurdle, divided by
•
the end of year VWAP.
Distributions in respect of the reference OCGH units for a year are paid quarterly, after each quarter is
completed (so, distributions for the first quarter are paid in the second quarter, distributions for the second quarter
are made in the third quarter, and so on). Subject to Mr. Wintrob’s continued employment, the vested percentage is
200
20% through December 31, 2015, 40% through December 31, 2016, 60% through December 31, 2017, 80%
through December 31, 2018 and 100% through December 31, 2019.
The annual hurdles selected serve as an ongoing assessment of the Company’s performance and are
intended to motivate and reward Mr. Wintrob for directing and managing the Company in a way that enables it to
exceed the targeted performance – by reference to two measures, Class A unit price and certain cash distributions
– over the relevant time period. Whether these performance conditions will be achieved depends on a number of
factors, many of which are not predictable at this time, but our assessment is that they are ambitious but
achievable. For 2017, the performance condition was not achieved.
We believe the EVUs are well designed to align Mr. Wintrob’s compensation with the total return achieved
by the Company’s unitholders because the number of OCGH units Mr. Wintrob will ultimately receive, if any, upon
the recapitalization of the EVUs into OCGH units at the end of the relevant performance period is a function of the
amount by which the volume-weighted average price of a Class A unit and the applicable distributions described
above exceed the applicable Base Value of $61.00, $65.00 and $69.00 for the performance period in question.
Similarly, his level of participation in distributions during any given performance period will be based on the extent to
which the volume-weighted average price of a Class A unit and the applicable distributions exceed a pre-set hurdle
for each of the relevant performance periods. Lastly, reducing the values of the cash distributions and the ultimate
value of the EVUs by amounts received in connection with the changes to Mr. Wintrob’s profit sharing arrangements
and the 2017 OCGH unit grant is intended to avoid Mr. Wintrob receiving value from the EVUs greater than they
were originally designed to deliver.
Profit Sharing for Mr. Wintrob
Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. Wintrob is entitled to profit sharing payments equal to a fixed
percentage of Oaktree’s operating profit and income during the employment term. The fixed percentage is 1.5% in
each of 2015-2019, up to the level of profit and income in 2014 and 1.75% of profit and income that exceeds the
2014 level, if any. Before the April 26, 2017 amendment to the employment agreement, these percentages were
applied to amounts that excluded income from pre-employment funds. Under the amended agreement, beginning
in 2017, Mr. Wintrob’s profit sharing payments will now be calculated by including a portion of the net incentive
income on pre-employment funds. For 2017-2019, the payments will be calculated taking into account 75% of the
net incentive income earned by Oaktree that is derived from such funds, and, for 2020 and later, such percentage
will change to 50%. In all cases, Mr. Wintrob’s profit sharing payments will have a floor of $5,000,000 per year, pro-
rated for partial years. Payments will be made in a combination of cash and equity, but at least the first $3,000,000
in each year will be paid in cash. Under the amended agreement, commencing in 2017, Mr. Wintrob will receive his
quarterly profit sharing payments in arrears, rather than in advance.
The annual equity grants made to our officers generally, which are discussed under “Overview of
Compensation Philosophy and Program” on page 195, above, are made in Class A units. To further align the
treatment of Mr. Wintrob with that of our employees, Mr. Wintrob’s amended employment agreement provides for
his equity awards to be in the form of Class A units and also provides that the value of the portion of such profit
sharing payments (if any) paid in Class A units will be determined based on the average daily closing price of the
Class A units for the period commencing 20 trading days before the date such Class A units are issued (or such
other period that Oaktree selects as applied consistently to other employees). The Class A units will vest annually
over four years.
When setting the level of Mr. Wintrob’s profit participation, including the annual floor, Messrs. Howard
Marks, our Co-Chairman, and Karsh took into account the anticipated performance of the Company, Mr. Wintrob’s
role and responsibilities, the level of compensation of certain other NEOs and their subjective understanding of the
market for CEO compensation. In addition, Messrs. Marks and Karsh thought it appropriate to pay a significant
portion of Mr. Wintrob’s profit participation in the form of equity that vests over time after grant to further align
Mr. Wintrob’s interests with the Company’s unitholders.
In conjunction with an extension of Mr. Wintrob’s employment contract, the board amended the calculation
of Mr. Wintrob’s profit participation to include a portion of Oaktree’s income from pre-employment funds in order to
increase Mr. Wintrob’s annual cash compensation to a level that the board determined is more in line with annual
cash compensation levels paid to chief executive officers (or executives serving in a similar capacity) in the asset
management industry. The Company arrived at the conclusion that Mr. Wintrob’s annual cash compensation was
too low, and therefore not competitive with the company’s peers, by conducting a formal internal analysis, based on
a review of publicly available data, of compensation paid to these similarly situated asset management executives.
201
The board then reviewed the internal analysis at a high level to draw the conclusion that an increase in the annual
cash compensation for Mr. Wintrob was warranted. Rather than facilitating such an increase through the addition of
a fixed salary or a guaranteed cash bonus, however, the board determined that allowing Mr. Wintrob to share in a
portion of the performance of the pre-employment funds would tie his compensation to a metric that drives value for
the Oaktree Group and our unitholders, thus aligning him with such holders. The board also determined that the
incremental amounts that Mr. Wintrob may receive in profit sharing payments, however, should reduce the value of
his EVUs to prevent Mr. Wintrob from receiving value twice for the same performance.
Treatment of EVUs and Profit Sharing Payments on Certain Terminations of Employment and Other Significant
Events
Other than Mr. Wintrob, each of our NEOs is either a founder of our company, has been promoted from
within or has been employed by us for over a decade and has generally not received special severance or change
in control benefits with their compensation arrangements. By contrast, Mr. Wintrob was hired from outside of
Oaktree in 2014. His employment agreement and EVU award are the products of an arms’ length negotiation we
undertook with Mr. Wintrob before he joined the Company. In order to encourage Mr. Wintrob to join our Company,
it was necessary to provide him with the security provided by continuation of his profit sharing payment levels
following certain terminations from employment as well as the EVU protections discussed below under “Potential
Payments Upon Termination of Employment or Change in Control at 2017 Year End.” As described in that section,
Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs will receive enhanced vesting credit upon certain terminations from employment, which credit is
further enhanced if such termination occurs following a change in control of our business. Also, if we no longer
employ Mr. Marks or Mr. Karsh, if either one is no longer our director or officer, or if either one substantially reduces
his role (other than for death or disability, or a family medical issue), then Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs will become fully
vested and recapitalized at the time of Mr. Marks’s or Mr. Karsh’s departure (as applicable), and Mr. Wintrob will
receive a new EVU grant. Providing these profit sharing payment continuation and EVU protections was critical to
reaching an agreement with Mr. Wintrob. We think these payments and benefits are appropriate and consistent
with what might be included in a new chief executive officer’s compensation arrangements at a similarly situated
company.
2017 Equity Grants to Mr. Wintrob
On April 26, 2017, we granted Mr. Wintrob 225,000 OCGH units, which vest pro-rata over ten years and are
subject to the 2011 Equity Plan and the standard form of OCGH unit award agreement to which our other officers
are bound. Under the EVU grant agreement, these OCGH units granted to Mr. Wintrob are eligible for accelerated
vesting if any portion of their unvested value has been applied to reduce the value of the EVUs to zero, as
described in the fifth and sixth steps in the EVU calculation, above (the “applied value”). The amount that will
immediately vest will equal the percentage of the 225,000 OCGH units that this applied value represents of the total
OCGH grant value. The OCGH units that accelerate will proportionally reduce the number of OCGH Units eligible
to vest on each remaining vesting date.
The grant was made in recognition of Mr. Wintrob’s performance to date and to further align his interests
with those of our unitholders. The board determined that an award of 225,000 units provided Mr. Wintrob with a
significant stake in our business that aligned more closely with those of our other senior executives, and a balance
to the appreciation-only structure of the EVU award.
On March 31, 2017, we granted 42,653 Class A units to Mr. Wintrob as part of his profit sharing
arrangement, the amount and size of which were determined based on the amount of Mr. Wintrob’s total
compensation attributable to fiscal year 2016 in accordance with Mr. Wintrob’s employment agreement, as
discussed generally above. Additionally, on August 16, 2017 we granted 30,513 Class A units to Mr. Wintrob as part
of his profit sharing arrangement, the amount and size of which were determined based on the amount of
Mr. Wintrob’s compensation attributable to the first half of 2017 in accordance with Mr. Wintrob’s employment
agreement.
C. Daniel D. Levin
Mr. Wintrob determined Mr. Levin’s compensation for 2017. Mr. Wintrob’s determination was a subjective
assessment of a range of factors, including (i) the fact that Mr. Levin succeeded Mr. Kirchheimer as our chief
financial officer, assuming a significant increase in responsibilities and the scope of his duties, (ii) Mr. Levin’s overall
leadership and oversight of the various departments that report to him, (iii) his effectiveness in participating in the
202
setting of Oaktree’s strategic direction and executing our major initiatives, (iv) his individual performance and (vi) Mr.
Wintrob’s review of available market data.
Mr. Levin receives fixed payments as base salary and receives an annual bonus, which is paid in part in
cash and in part in equity so that 25% of his total annual compensation is paid in equity.
2017 Equity Grant to Mr. Levin
On March 31, 2017, we granted 11,876 Class A units to Mr. Levin, the amount and size of which were
determined based on the amount of Mr. Levin’s total compensation attributable to fiscal year 2016, as discussed
generally above. In addition, we granted 29,407 Class A units subject to four-year vesting on March 31, 2017 to
Mr. Levin as a supplemental equity grant in order to recognize 2016 performance, his assumption of additional
responsibilities in 2016 and to further align his incentives with Oaktree unitholders in conjunction with him becoming
Chief Financial Officer.
D. David M. Kirchheimer
Mr. Kirchheimer was entitled to receive profit sharing payments that reflect 1% of fee-related earnings, net
investment income and net incentive income of the Oaktree Operating Group subject to certain adjustments. Mr.
Kirchheimer retired as our Chief Financial Officer on March 31, 2017.
E. John B. Frank
Mr. Frank received a share of the carried interest from our largest closed-end strategy, distressed debt, both
in recognition of his historical contributions to the management of some of the strategy’s investments and in lieu of
other compensation, such as a greater profit sharing percentage or additional OCGH units.
For 2017 Mr. Frank also received (a) 1.3% of the net incentive income of the Oaktree Operating Group from
certain funds that existed as of December 31, 2014 (b) 1.0% of the net incentive income of Oaktree Operating
Group from certain funds that started during 2015 or had substantial or final closings during 2015, and (c) 0.5% of
the net incentive income of the Oaktree Operating Group from certain funds that started after December 31, 2015 or
whose final or more substantial closing occurred after December 31, 2015. Additionally, for 2017 Mr. Frank was
entitled to receive profit sharing payments that reflect 0.5% of the net investment income and fee-related earnings
of the Oaktree Operating Group subject to certain adjustments. Mr. Frank’s profit sharing of net incentive income,
net investment income and fee-related earnings was subject to a cap of $2.5 million in 2017. Mr. Frank’s
remuneration for 2017 was determined based on responsibilities he assumed as Vice Chairman in 2016.
F. Todd E. Molz
Mr. Wintrob determined Mr. Molz’s compensation for 2017. Mr. Wintrob’s determination was a subjective
assessment of a range of factors, including (i) the fact that four of our operational units report to Mr. Molz in his
capacity as our General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer – Legal, Compliance, Internal Audit and Corporate
Services; (ii) his overall leadership and oversight of these units, (iii) his role in our strategic direction and initiatives,
and (iv) his individual performance. In particular, Mr. Molz’s leadership of the Legal and Compliance departments
involves oversight of matters spanning a broad array of complex laws and regulations around the globe, with the
scope and complexity of such laws and regulations having increased substantially under the Dodd-Frank Wall
Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, as well as the legal requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
and the NYSE, and various legal and regulatory initiatives in Europe and Asia.
Mr. Molz receives fixed payments as base salary and receives an annual bonus, which is paid in part in
cash and in part in equity so that 25% of his total annual compensation is paid in equity.
2017 Equity Grant to Mr. Molz
On March 31, 2017, we granted 22,621 Class A units to Mr. Molz, the amount and size of which were
determined based on the amount of Mr. Molz’s total compensation attributable to fiscal year 2016, as discussed
generally above.
Perquisites
We provide our executive officers with perquisites in the form of payment for tax preparation services and
internet-related services. In addition, certain of our executive officers, including Mr. Karsh, received compensation
203
in the form of our subsidizing their use of our plane, or, in the case of Mr. Karsh, of Mr. Karsh’s own plane, for
personal purposes. Mr. Karsh’s arrangement is described in more detail in the tabular and accompanying narrative
disclosure that follows.
Risk Analysis of Our Compensation Programs
We strive to invest in a risk-controlled fashion and seek to ensure that our compensation policies are
consistent with that approach and discourage the incurrence of undue risk. Thus, we emphasize both the grant of
equity and – for senior investment professionals in our closed-end funds – carried interest subject to multi-year
vesting as key forms of compensation, particularly as employees become more senior in the organization and
assume more leadership. We believe this policy encourages long-term thinking, fosters a collaborative culture and
reduces any incentive to accept excessive risk in a search for short-term gain. With respect to participation in our
incentive income, our closed-end funds generally distribute incentive income only after we have returned all capital
plus a preferred return to our investors, meaning that in analyzing investments and making investment decisions,
our investment professionals are motivated to take a long-term view of their investments, given that short-term
results typically do not affect their compensation. Importantly, the amount of incentive income paid to these
investment professionals is determined by the performance of the fund as a whole, rather than specific investments,
meaning that they have a material interest in every investment. This approach discourages excessive risk taking,
given that even a hugely successful investment will result in incentive compensation payments only if the overall
performance of the fund exceeds the requisite hurdle.
Summary Compensation Table for 2017
The following table provides summary information concerning the compensation of Jay S. Wintrob, our
principal executive officer, Daniel D. Levin, who became our chief financial officer on April 1, 2017, David M.
Kirchheimer, who served as our chief financial officer prior to April 1, 2017, and our three other most highly
compensated employees who served as executive officers as of December 31, 2017, for services rendered to us
during 2017.
The distributions our NEOs receive in respect of their indirect ownership of the Oaktree Operating Group
are based on their respective holdings of OCGH and Class A units and are not reflected as cash compensation in
the table below.
Name and Principal Position
Year
Salary ($)
Bonus ($)
Stock Awards
($) (2)(3)
Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)
All Other
Compensation
($) (4)
Total ($)
Bruce A. Karsh,
Co-Chairman and Chief
Investment Officer .............
Jay S. Wintrob,
Chief Executive Officer......
Daniel D. Levin,
Chief Financial Officer (1) ...
David M. Kirchheimer,
Chief Financial Officer (1) ...
John B. Frank,
Vice Chairman...................
Todd E. Molz,
General Counsel and
Chief Administrative
Officer ...............................
2017
2016
2015
2017
2016
2015
2017
2017
2016
2015
2017
2016
2015
2017
2016
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $ 7,436,027
$ 7,436,027
— $ 1,307,358
$ 1,307,358
— $ 9,685,011
$ 9,685,011
— $ 7,505,638
— $ 1,082,152
$
$
— $ 8,078,582
$ 15,584,220
— $ 5,124,532
$ 6,206,684
— $
— $
— $ 4,000,000
$ 4,000,000
500,000
$ 1,375,000
$ 1,870,120
$
— $
— $ 3,745,120
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $ 1,363,417
$ 1,363,417
— $ 6,133,140
$ 6,133,140
— $ 3,306,832
$ 3,306,832
— $ 4,984,023
$ 4,984,023
— $ 7,364,386
$ 7,364,386
— $ 6,703,501
$ 6,703,501
500,000
$ 2,500,000
$ 1,024,731
500,000
$ 2,500,000
$ 1,415,643
$
$
— $
— $
— $ 4,024,731
— $ 4,415,643
204
(1) Mr. Levin became our Chief Financial Officer on April 1, 2017 succeeding Mr. Kirchheimer who retired from Oaktree effective March 31,
(2)
2017.
For Mr. Wintrob, reflects a grant of Class A units in respect of $3,357,138 earned in 2016 and the first half of 2017 as profits participation,
the grant of 225,000 OCGH units on April 26, 2017 and amendments to Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs on the same date. For Mr. Levin, reflects a
grant of 41,283 Class A units on March 31, 2017 in respect of his 2016 compensation. For Mr. Molz, reflects a grant of Class A and OCGH
units in respect of $1,415,643 earned in 2015 as part of his 2015 total compensation and the grant of 22,621 Class A units on March 31,
2017 in respect of his 2016 compensation.
(3) Amounts reflected in this “Stock Awards” column of this Summary Compensation Table represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the
applicable equity interests received by our NEOs during each year set forth in the table, calculated in accordance with Financial Accounting
Standards Board Accounting Codification (ASC) Topic 718 or “ASC Topic 718,” Accounting for Stock Compensation. Please see notes 2
and 14 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for further information concerning the assumptions
underlying such values. For Mr. Wintrob, the amount in this column in respect of his equity interest in OCGH reflects the incremental fair
value associated with the modification of Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs and the grant of the 225,000 OCGH units, as determined in accordance with
ASC Topic 718, which is based, in part, on the April 26, 2017 price of $46.55 per Class A unit, less a discount applied to the OCGH units as
detailed in notes 2 and 14 to our consolidated financial statements. The amounts shown in this table use the values of the awards actually
granted in the reported fiscal year, regardless of when those awards were earned. Accordingly, our equity awards granted in 2017 in
respect of 2016 performance are shown in the 2017 line in the Summary Compensation Table instead of the 2016 line. Our equity awards
to be granted in 2018 in respect of 2017 performance are not shown in the 2017 line in the Summary Compensation Table (but will appear
in the 2018 line in next year’s Summary Compensation Table for next year’s named executive officers).
(4) Please see the “All Other Compensation Supplemental Table” below.
All Other Compensation Supplemental Table
The following table provides additional information regarding each component of the All Other
Compensation column in the Summary Compensation Table:
Name
Year
Payments in
Respect of Carried
Interest (1)
Profits
Participation (2)
Airplane Use (3)
Perquisites (4)
Total
Bruce A. Karsh ............................
2017
Jay S. Wintrob .............................
2016
2015
2017
2016
2015
Daniel D. Levin ............................
2017
David M. Kirchheimer ..................
John B. Frank ..............................
2017
2016
2015
2017
2016
2015
Todd E. Molz ...............................
2017
2016
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
6,425,935
1,224,042
9,604,874
$
$
$
— $
933,131
$
76,961
— $
— $
83,316
— $
— $
80,137
$
$
$
$
7,436,027
1,307,358
9,685,011
8,078,582
— $
8,031,479
— $
5,124,532
— $
4,000,000
$
$
$
— $
47,103
— $
— $
— $
5,124,532
— $
4,000,000
— $
— $
— $
— $
—
— $
1,348,620
— $
6,102,368
— $
3,281,631
2,463,584
2,731,734
3,131,713
$
$
$
2,500,000
4,606,761
3,547,712
$
$
$
$
$
$
— $
14,797
— $
30,772
— $
25,201
— $
20,439
— $
25,891
— $
24,076
$
$
$
$
$
$
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
1,363,417
6,133,140
3,306,832
4,984,023
7,364,386
6,703,501
—
—
(1) Amounts included for 2017 represent amounts earned on an accrual basis in respect of participation interests in incentive income
generated by our funds with respect to the year ended December 31, 2017. To the extent that timing differences may exist between when
amounts are earned on an accrual basis and paid in cash, these amounts do not reflect actual cash carried interest distributions to the
NEOs during such periods. Timing differences typically arise when cash is distributed in the quarter immediately following the one in which
the related income was earned.
(2) Amounts included for 2017 represent the amounts earned on an accrual basis in a given year in respect of the NEO’s annual profits
participation interest. The amount for Mr. Wintrob excludes $1,230,321 earned in profits participation for 2017 that will be paid to Mr.
Wintrob in the form of a grant of Class A units in the first quarter of 2018.
205
(3) Amounts included for 2017 reflect Mr. Karsh’s personal use of an aircraft leased from Mr. Karsh by us. Pursuant to the terms of that lease,
the value of personal travel by Mr. Karsh on the leased aircraft is based on direct operating costs (fuel, airport fees, incremental pilot costs,
hourly charges of maintenance programs, cost attributable to ‘deadhead’ segments, etc.). Mr. Karsh is also entitled to reimbursement of
the costs of certain business-related travel pursuant to that lease, which amounts are not included in the compensation reflected above—
please refer to “Item 13—Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence—Aircraft Use” for more information.
(4) Amounts included for 2017 represent tax preparation fees of $37,660 and $39,301 related to internet services provided for Mr. Karsh; tax
preparation fees of $8,605, legal fees of $27,641 and $10,857 related to internet services provided for Mr. Wintrob and tax preparation fees
of $14,725 and $5,714 related to internet services provided for Mr. Frank.
Non-competition, Non-solicitation and Confidentiality Restrictions
Pursuant to the terms of OCGH’s partnership agreement or the Company’s Class A unit grant agreement,
as applicable, our executive officers (including our NEOs) are subject to customary provisions regarding non-
solicitation of our clients and employees, confidentiality, assignment of intellectual property and nondisparagement
obligations. In addition, during the term of employment and for a period up to one year immediately following the
resignation or termination of employment (other than a termination by us without cause), our executive officers may
not, directly or indirectly:
•
•
•
engage in any business activity in which we operate, including any Competitive Business (as defined
below);
render any services to any Competitive Business; or
acquire a financial interest in or become actively involved with any Competitive Business (other than as
a passive investor holding a minimal percentage of the stock of a public company).
Under the terms of OCGH’s partnership agreement and, in the case of Mr. Wintrob, also under the terms of
his employment agreement, during the term of employment and for the two-year period immediately following the
resignation or termination of employment for any reason, our executive officers may not solicit our customers or
clients for a Competitive Business, induce any employee to leave our employ or hire or otherwise enter into any
business affiliation with any person who was our employee during the twelve-month period preceding such
executive officer’s termination of employment.
“Competitive Business” means any business which is competitive with the business of any member of the
Oaktree Operating Group or any of its affiliates (including raising, organizing, managing or advising any fund having
an investment strategy in any way competitive with any of the funds managed by any member of the Oaktree
Operating Group or any of its affiliates) anywhere in the United States or any other country where a member of the
Oaktree Operating Group or any of its affiliates conducts business.
Incentive Income
Participation in incentive income generated by our funds is typically subject to a five-year vesting schedule,
under which a participating NEO’s interest will vest in increments of 22% on each of the first through fourth
anniversaries of the closing date of the applicable fund, with the remaining 12% of the interest vesting on or after
the fifth anniversary of such closing date, subject to certain limitations as set forth in the applicable governing
documents. Under the terms of the applicable governing documents, NEOs are subject to various covenants
addressing confidentiality, intellectual property, non-solicitation, non-competition and non-disparagement. Pursuant
to the applicable fund agreements, a participating NEO’s incentive income interest is subject to clawback in the
event that the general partner of the applicable fund is required to return any distributions (other than tax
distributions) received in respect of such NEO’s interest in the applicable fund.
206
Grants of Plan-Based Awards in 2017
The following table provides information concerning the grant of equity-based awards made during the 2017
fiscal year, including awards made in respect of 2016 performance.
Name
Grant Date
All Other Stock
Awards: Number of
Shares of Stock or
Units
Grant Date Fair
Value of Stock
Awards (6)
Jay S. Wintrob .................................................................................
3/31/2017
4/26/2017
8/16/2017
Daniel D. Levin ................................................................................
3/31/2017
Todd E. Molz ....................................................................................
3/31/2017
42,653 (1) $
225,000 (2) $
30,513 (3) $
41,283 (4) $
22,621 (5) $
1,932,181
4,148,500
1,424,957
1,870,120
1,024,731
(1) Reflects a grant of 42,653 Class A units, which vest ratably over four years.
(2) Reflects a grant of 225,000 OCGH units, which vest ratably over ten years.
(3) Reflects a grant of 30,513 Class A units, which vests ratably over four years.
(4) Reflects a grant of 41,283 Class A units, which vest ratably over four years.
(5) Reflects a grant of 22,621 Class A units, which vest ratably over four years.
(6) Grant date fair value is based on the grant date determined under ASC Topic 718 as of March 31, 2017 for the Class A units
of Messrs. Wintrob, Levin and Molz, as of August 16, 2017 for the Class A units of Mr. Wintrob and as of April 26, 2017 for
Mr. Wintrob’s OCGH units and the amendment to his EVUs. Accordingly, the grant date fair value for the Class A units is
based on the Class A unit price of $45.30 per unit on March 31, 2017 for Messrs. Wintrob, Levin and Molz. The grant date
fair value for the Class A units issued to Mr. Wintrob on August 16, 2017 is $46.70. The fair value Mr. Wintrob’s interests
reflects the incremental fair value associated with the modification of Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs as determined in accordance with
ASC Topic 718, which is based, in part, on the April 26, 2017 Class A price of $46.55 per unit, less a discount applied to the
OCGH units as detailed in notes 2 and 14 to our consolidated financial statements. Please see note 3 to the Summary
Compensation Table above.
2011 Equity Incentive Plan
The purpose of the 2011 Plan is to provide a means for us and our Affiliates (as defined in the 2011 Plan) to
attract and retain key personnel and a means for current and prospective principals, directors, officers, employees,
consultants and advisors of us and our Affiliates to acquire and maintain an equity interest in us and/or one or more
of our Affiliates, thereby strengthening their commitment to our welfare and that of our Affiliates and aligning their
interests with those of our unitholders and clients.
Eligibility. Employees, partners, directors, consultants, advisors and other individuals providing services to
us or our Affiliates are eligible to participate in the 2011 Plan.
Awards. The Committee (as defined in the 2011 Plan) has the discretion to grant awards in respect of
Oaktree Operating Group units, Class A units, OCGH units, any type of unit or interest of any member of the
Oaktree Operating Group or any class or series of units or other ownership interests issued by us or one of our
Affiliates (collectively, “Units”). The Committee may grant options, unit appreciation rights (“UARs”), restricted Unit
awards, Unit bonus awards and/or phantom equity awards to eligible persons.
Number of Units Authorized. The 2011 Plan provides that the maximum number of Units that may be
delivered pursuant to awards under the 2011 Plan is 22,300,000, as increased on January 1 of each year beginning
in 2012 by a number of Units equal to the excess of (a) 15% of the number of outstanding Oaktree Operating Group
units on December 31 of the immediately preceding year over (b) the number of Oaktree Operating Group units that
have been issued or are issuable under the 2011 Plan as of such date, except that our board of directors may, in its
discretion, increase the number of Units covered by the 2011 Plan by a lesser amount. As of February 12, 2018,
11,426,213 Units have been issued or are issuable under the 2011 Plan, and the Committee may issue 12,016,674
additional Units under the 2011 Plan.
2007 Equity Incentive Plan
Our board of directors and the general partner of OCGH adopted the 2007 Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
Equity Incentive Plan (our “2007 Plan”) as part of the May 2007 Restructuring. No more awards are being granted
under the 2007 Plan.
207
Units Subject to the 2007 Plan. As of February 12, 2018, 4,929,054 OCGH units have been issued under
our 2007 Plan. As with the other OCGH units, pursuant to the exchange agreement and the terms of the OCGH
partnership agreement, vested Award Units may be exchanged for, at the option of our board of directors, our Class
A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value or
any combination of the foregoing, subject to approval of our board of directors.
Outstanding Equity at 2017 Year End
The following table provides information regarding outstanding unvested equity held by our NEOs as of
December 31, 2017:
Name
Bruce A. Karsh ........................................................................................................................
Jay S. Wintrob .........................................................................................................................
Daniel D. Levin ........................................................................................................................
David M. Kirchheimer
..............................................................................................................
John B. Frank ..........................................................................................................................
Todd E. Molz ...........................................................................................................................
Stock Awards
Number of Units
That Have Not
Vested
Market Value of
Units That Have
Not Vested (1)
—
$
—
1,515,493 (2) $ 12,827,755
73,132 (3) $
22,500 (4) $
90,000 (5) $
138,358 (6) $
3,078,857
757,800
3,241,700
5,491,095
(1) The fair market value of $42.10 per Class A unit and $33.68 per OCGH unit is based on the closing price for our Class A
units on December 31, 2017, less a discount applied to OCGH units as detailed in notes 2 and 14 to our consolidated
financial statements. The fair value of $1.20 per EVU was determined as of December 31, 2017 using a Monte Carlo
simulation model as detailed in note 14 to our consolidated financial statements.
(2) Mr. Wintrob’s units are composed of 1,200,000 EVUs, 90,493 Class A units and 225,000 OCGH units. With respect to the
EVUs, 400,000 will vest following December 31 of each of 2017, 2018 and 2019. The Class A units will vest on February
15 of each of 2018 through 2021, respectively, in the following amounts: 17,021, 16,147, 16,148 and 10,664, (ii) 7,628 will
vest on August 1 of each of 2018 through 2020, respectively, and (iii) 7,629 will vest on August 1, 2021. Subject to Mr.
Wintrob’s EVU grant agreement, the OCGH units will vest as to 22,500 OCGH units on February 15 of each of 2018
through 2027, respectively.
(3) Mr. Levin’s units are composed entirely of Class A units, which will vest on February 15 of each of 2018 through 2025,
respectively, in the following amounts: 20,227, 16,328, 16,328, 12,306, 1,985, 1,985, 1,985 and 1,988.
(4) Mr. Kirchheimer’s units are composed entirely of OCGH units, of which 2,500 OCGH units will vest on January 1 and
February 15 of each of 2018 through 2021, respectively, and 2,500 OCGH units will vest on February 15, 2022.
(5) Mr. Frank’s units are composed of 25,000 Class A units and 65,000 OCGH units. The Class A units will vest on January 1,
2018, February 15, 2018, and January 1, 2019, respectively, in the following amounts: 10,000, 10,000 and 5,000. With
respect to the OCGH units (i) 10,000 will vest on January 1 of each of 2020 and 2021, (ii) 5,000 will vest on January 1,
2019 and (iii) 10,000 will vest on February 15 of each of 2019 through 2022.
(6) Mr. Molz’s units are composed of 98,717 Class A units and 39,641 OCGH units. With respect to the Class A units (i) 5,000
will vest on January 1 of each of 2018 through 2021and (ii) the following amounts will vest on February 15 of each of 2018
through 2022, respectively: 21,405, 21,403, 19,557, 16,038, and 314. With respect to the OCGH units, the following
amounts will vest on February 15 of each of 2018 through 2026, respectively: 3,687, 3,687, 3,687, 894, 10,961, 6,276,
6,276, 3,279 and 894.
208
Units Vested in 2017
The following table provides information regarding the number of outstanding equity units held by our NEOs
that vested during the year ended December 31, 2017:
Name
Stock Awards (1)
Number of Units
Acquiring on
Vesting
Market Value of
Units Vesting (2)
Bruce A. Karsh .......................................................................................................................
— $
—
Jay S. Wintrob .......................................................................................................................
406,810
Daniel D. Levin ......................................................................................................................
David M. Kirchheimer .............................................................................................................
John B. Frank ........................................................................................................................
Todd E. Molz ..........................................................................................................................
10,507
5,000
20,000
24,436
$
$
$
$
$
1,259,217
480,170
166,400
665,600
1,042,035
(1) The references to Stock Awards or units in this table refer to 400,000 EVUs and 6,810 Class A units in the case of
Mr. Wintrob; 10,507 Class A units in the case of Mr. Levin; 5,000 OCGH units in the case of Mr. Kirchheimer; 20,000 OCGH
units in the case of Mr. Frank; and 20,750 Class A units and 3,686 OCGH units in the case of Mr. Molz.
(2) The fair market value per unit is based on the trading price for our Class A units on applicable vesting dates of January 1,
2017 and February 15, 2017, respectively, less a discount applied to OCGH units. The fair market value of $2.37 per EVU
was determined as of January 1, 2017 using a Monte Carlo simulation model. Please see notes 2 and 14 to our
consolidated financial statements for more details.
Potential Payments Upon Termination of Employment or Change in Control at 2017 Year End
Except as otherwise reflected in Mr. Wintrob’s employment agreement, we do not have any formal
severance or change of control plans or agreements in place for any of our NEOs. Except for Mr. Wintrob’s EVUs,
none of the equity awards held by any of our executive officers at 2017 year end is subject to accelerated vesting in
connection with a change in control or a termination of employment for any reason, except if termination is due to
death, disability or, in certain cases discussed below, termination without cause, in which case all unvested units
automatically accelerate in full.
In all cases, none of Messrs. Karsh and Frank is entitled to any additional vesting of their participation rights
in the incentive income generated by our funds as a result of a change in control of us or any of our affiliates. The
impact of a termination of employment on the incentive income participation rights held by each of Messrs. Karsh
and Frank is described below.
Incentive Income (Messrs. Karsh and Frank)
Generally, upon the earliest to occur of a participating NEO’s death, “disability” (as defined in the applicable
governing documents) termination without “cause” (as defined in the applicable governing documents) or
resignation (each, a “termination event”), such NEO’s incentive income interest will be converted into the right to
receive a residual percentage (which cannot exceed the NEO’s interest prior to such termination event) of the
distributions the NEO otherwise would have received absent such termination event, as described below.
In the case of a termination event other than resignation, the residual percentage generally will equal the
product of:
•
•
the participating NEO’s interest prior to such event; and
if the fund is in its investment period, a percentage equal to the applicable fund’s aggregate committed
capital that had been contributed as of the date of the termination event.
If a participating NEO resigns, the residual percentage generally will equal the product of:
•
•
the participating NEO’s interest prior to such resignation;
the participating NEO’s vested percentage as of the resignation date (as discussed above under “—
Carried Interest or Incentive Income”); and
209
•
if the fund is in its investment period, a percentage equal to the applicable fund’s aggregate committed
capital that had been contributed as of the resignation date.
If a participating NEO resigns and engages in competitive activity within two years following his resignation,
the NEO’s residual percentage will be reduced further (by as much as 50%).
In the event that a participating NEO is terminated for cause, he immediately forfeits all rights to further
distributions of incentive income.
The following table sets forth the estimated value of the estimated incentive income distributions that would
be made in respect of the NEO’s unvested incentive income interests under the Carry Plans, assuming those
interests became fully vested on December 31, 2017 upon a termination of employment without cause or for good
reason (as applicable) or termination due to death, disability or resignation. No amount is payable or accelerated in
respect of an interest in the incentive income upon an individual’s termination, regardless of the reason for the
termination. Rather, an individual who is terminated will receive amounts payable as and when we receive the
associated incentive income (which is expected to occur over a number of years) in accordance with the same
payment schedule as would have been in effect in the absence of termination.
The values disclosed below in respect of the rights of participating NEOs to continue to participate in
distributions of incentive income, whether at the same level as before termination or at a reduced level as described
above under “—Potential Payments Upon Termination of Employment or Change in Control at 2017 Year End,”
have been determined assuming that each of the funds in respect of which the NEOs would have a right to
incentive income had been liquidated on December 31, 2017 and all of the funds’ assets distributed in accordance
with their respective distribution provisions at a value equal to their book value as of December 31, 2017. We have
calculated the amounts set forth below using these assumptions because distributions made on a liquidation basis
would yield the maximum amounts potentially payable to each of the NEOs, had a termination of employment
actually occurred on December 31, 2017. We note, however, that the values set forth below were computed based
on assumptions that may not be accurate or applicable to a given circumstance of termination. The actual amounts
to be paid upon a particular termination of employment cannot be directly determined since such payments would
be based on several factors, including when termination of employment occurs, the circumstances of termination,
the time period for fund liquidation, the investment performance of the fund and the value at which such liquidations
actually occur, when Oaktree determines to make distributions from such funds, when income is realized from such
funds and the actual amounts so realized.
Estimated Distributions in Respect of Acceleration of Unvested Incentive Income Interests
Name
Liquidation Value
of Interests Subject
to Vesting
Acceleration
Bruce A. Karsh ................................................................................................................................................... $
26,309,120
Jay S. Wintrob ................................................................................................................................................... $
Daniel D. Levin .................................................................................................................................................. $
David M. Kirchheimer
........................................................................................................................................ $
—
—
—
John B. Frank .................................................................................................................................................... $
10,384,397
Todd E. Molz ...................................................................................................................................................... $
—
Impact of Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason on Profit Sharing Payments
If Mr. Wintrob’s employment is terminated by us without cause or by Mr. Wintrob for good reason (as
defined in Mr. Wintrob’s employment agreement), Mr. Wintrob will be entitled to: (i) the profit sharing payments
described above on page 201 through the fiscal quarter of termination, (ii) immediate vesting of all unvested Class A
units delivered in respect of prior profit sharing payments, (iii) for a termination before December 31, 2019, payment
of 25% of the aggregate profit sharing payments earned in respect of the four full fiscal quarters that preceded the
termination quarter (the “quarterly severance profit sharing payment”) for up to eight quarters after the quarter of
termination, and (iv) for a termination after December 31, 2019, the quarterly severance profit sharing payment for
four quarters following termination. If Mr. Wintrob’s employment had been terminated by us without cause or by him
for good reason on December 31, 2017, we expect that we would have paid him an amount equal to $2,776,322 per
210
quarter for each of the Company’s eight consecutive fiscal quarters beginning with the first quarter of 2018, for a
total of $22,210,578.
Under his employment agreement,
•
•
“cause” includes (i) willful and continued failure to fulfill responsibilities under the employment
agreement, (ii) gross negligence or willful misconduct detrimental to Oaktree, (iii) material breach of the
employment agreement or any other agreement with Oaktree, (iv) material violation of a material
regulation or regulatory rule, (v) conviction of, or entry of a guilty plea or of no contest to, certain
felonies, (vi) court or regulatory order removing Mr. Wintrob as an officer (or equivalent person) of
Oaktree or prohibiting him from participating in the conduct of any Oaktree affairs, (vii) fraud, theft
misappropriation or dishonesty relating to Oaktree, or (viii) material breach of Oaktree policies; and
“good reason” includes (i) a material diminution or adverse change in duties, authority, responsibilities,
positions or reporting lines of authority under the employment agreement, (ii) relocation of Mr. Wintrob’s
principal job location or office by more than 35 miles, and (iii) any material breach by Oaktree of the
employment agreement.
As a condition to receiving these entitlements, Mr. Wintrob will be required to sign a release of claims
against us, our employees, directors and related persons and to comply with certain post-employment restrictive
covenants.
Impact of Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason on EVUs
If Mr. Wintrob had been terminated by us without cause, or if he had resigned for good reason, on, but
giving effect to his employment through, December 31, 2017, Mr. Wintrob would be vested in a number of EVUs
equal to the sum (not to exceed 2,000,000) of (A) the number of EVUs that have vested before the fiscal year in
which his termination of employment occurs, plus, (B) the product of 400,000 EVUs multiplied by, a fraction, the
numerator of which is the number of days in the fiscal year during which we employed Mr. Wintrob, and the
denominator of which is 365, plus (C) 800,000 EVUs, so Mr. Wintrob would be vested in 2,000,000 EVUs. The
vested EVUs would be recapitalized as OCGH Units following December 31, 2019, December 31, 2020, and
December 31, 2021 applying the formula described in “Compensation of the Individual NEOs—Jay S. Wintrob—
EVU Grant to Mr. Wintrob—EVU Valuation and Recapitalization” on page 199 above, but modified so that any
reductions for net incentive income for pre-employment funds and for the value of the 2017 OCGH grant only
applies based on amounts received and the portion vested through the date of termination. Specifically: (i) the
reduction described in the third step of the calculation will only be for the portion of profit sharing payments
attributable to net incentive income from pre-employment funds that are actually paid or payable for periods before
termination, (ii) the reduction described in the fifth step will be determined based on the vested portion of the value
of the 2017 OCGH grant through the date of termination, and (iii) there is no reduction under the sixth step on
account of any unvested portion of the 2017 OCGH grant. In addition, if the termination occurs before the first
recapitalization, then the reduction in the fourth step of the calculation will only be of the excess of 2017 OCGH
grant cash distributions over EVU cash distributions paid or payable with respect to periods before termination. The
value attributable to the accelerated vesting of the EVUs is not currently calculable because the applicable formula
includes components that cannot currently be reasonably estimated. The amount that Mr. Wintrob would be due
under this paragraph would apply even if his termination occurs within the one year period after a change of control.
Voluntary Resignation Without Good Reason, Termination for Cause or Termination by Reason of Death or
Disability
If Mr. Wintrob resigns without good reason on December 31, 2017, then Mr. Wintrob would receive payment
in respect of 800,000 EVUs on the same dates on which he would otherwise have been paid and applying the same
formula in “Compensation of the Individual NEOs—Jay S. Wintrob—EVU Grant to Mr. Wintrob—EVU Valuation and
Recapitalization” on page 199 above, but substituting 800,000 for 2,000,000 in the second step. In addition, if such
termination occurs before the first recapitalization, then (i) the reduction described in the third step of the calculation
is only for the portion of profit sharing payments attributable to net incentive income from pre-employment funds that
are actually paid or payable for periods before termination, (ii) the reduction described in the fourth step is
determined based on the vested portion of the value of the 2017 OCGH grant through the date of termination, and
(iii) there is no reduction under the fifth step on account of any unvested portion of the 2017 OCGH grant. In
addition, if the termination occurs before the first recapitalization, then the reduction in the fourth step of the
calculation will only be of the excess of 2017 OCGH grant cash distributions over EVU cash distributions paid or
211
payable with respect to periods before termination. If Mr. Wintrob is terminated by us for cause, all of his EVUs,
whether vested or unvested, will be immediately forfeited without consideration. If Mr. Wintrob were terminated by
reason of death or disability, Mr. Wintrob would be entitled to pro rata vesting and recapitalization of his EVUs, all as
described in his EVU award agreement.
Full Acceleration Event for EVUs
If we no longer employ Howard Marks or Bruce Karsh, or if either one is no longer our director or officer, or
if either one substantially reduces his role (other than for death or disability, or a family medical issue), in each case
on or prior to December 31, 2019, then Mr. Wintrob will be entitled to the following treatment with respect to his
EVUs:
(A) All of Mr. Wintrob’s 2,000,000 outstanding EVUs will become fully vested and nonforfeitable. In lieu of
calculating the value of the amounts paid in respect of the EVUs in 2019, 2020 or 2021 as would occur absent a full
acceleration event, the calculation would occur promptly following the full acceleration event. The allocation for the
EVUs will equal the sum of (i) the volume-weighted average price of our Class A Units over the 15 business days
before the date as of which either Mr. Wintrob notifies us that Mr. Karsh or Mr. Marks has ceased to serve, or there
is a public announcement that Mr. Karsh or Mr. Marks has ceased to serve; plus (ii) the aggregate cash distributions
made on a per-OCGH Unit-basis from January 1, 2015 through such date of notice, excluding distributions
attributable to net incentive income from certain Oaktree funds listed in Mr. Wintrob’s employment agreement over
the $61.00 Base Value as accreted through such date of notice, minus (iii) the sum of (x) $10,359,563 (which is the
assumed grant date value of the 2017 OCGH unit grant, as described in “Compensation of the Individual NEOs—
Jay S. Wintrob—EVU Grant to Mr. Wintrob—EVU Valuation and Recapitalization” on page 199 above and (y) the
portion of Mr. Wintrob’s profit sharing payments attributable to net incentive income from pre-employment funds that
are actually paid or payable for periods before the allocation. The allocation hereunder will be made no later than in
the year following the year in which the full acceleration event occurred.
(B) Mr. Wintrob will get an award of an additional 2,000,000 OCGH equity value units (the “new EVUs”).
The new EVUs will vest ratably over the period of remaining full or partial years between January 1, 2015 and
December 31, 2020, subject to Mr. Wintrob’s continued employment. Mr. Wintrob would be entitled to annual cash
distributions in respect of the new EVUs based on the performance period of remaining full or partial years between
January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2020. The new EVUs would be divided into three tranches, and the
determination of how many of the new EVUs are recapitalized as OCGH units would be made as of each December
31 of 2020, 2021 and 2022, respectively, and would be made based on the three performance periods each
beginning on January 1, 2015 and ending on December 31 of 2020, 2021 and 2022, respectively. The Base Value
for the 2020 fiscal year would be the volume-weighted average price of our Class A units over the 15 days following
the date as of which Mr. Marks or Mr. Karsh ceases to serve, plus any unaccreted portion of the $61.00 Base Value
that is an estimate of the projected cash distributions over the period January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2020,
on a per-OCGH Unit-basis, excluding distributions attributable to net incentive income from certain Oaktree funds
listed in Mr. Wintrob’s employment agreement, plus twenty percent of such unaccreted Base Value. The Base
Values for the 2021 and 2022 fiscal years would be determined in the same manner, but using $65.00 in place of
$61.00 for the 2021 fiscal year and $69.00 for the 2022 fiscal year.
All other terms and conditions that applied to the original EVUs will apply to the new EVUs.
Accelerated Vesting of OCGH Units and Class A Units Upon Termination of Employment
The following table sets forth the estimated value of the acceleration of all unvested OCGH units and
unvested Class A units held by each NEO, assuming a termination of employment due to death or disability on
December 31, 2017. Other than on termination of employment by reason of death or disability, the vesting of
outstanding OCGH and Class A unit awards do not accelerate upon termination of employment, except in the case
of (i) Class A units granted to Mr. Wintrob in connection with his profit sharing payments as described above, (ii)
certain Class A units granted to Mr. Levin in 2014 and thereafter if Mr. Levin is terminated by us without cause and
(iii) certain OCGH and Class A units granted to Mr. Molz in 2014 and thereafter if Mr. Molz is terminated by us
without cause.
212
Acceleration of Unvested OCGH Units and Class A Units
Name
OCGH Units or Class A Units (1)
Number of Units of
Stock Subject to
Vesting
Acceleration
Market Value of
Accelerated
Vesting of Units (2)
Bruce A. Karsh ....................................................................................................................
— $
—
Jay S. Wintrob .....................................................................................................................
315,493
Daniel D. Levin ....................................................................................................................
David M. Kirchheimer ..........................................................................................................
John B. Frank ......................................................................................................................
73,132
22,500
90,000
Todd E. Molz .......................................................................................................................
138,358
$
$
$
$
$
11,387,755
3,078,857
757,800
3,241,700
5,491,095
(1) The references to stock awards or units in this table refer to Class A units in the case of Mr. Levin, OCGH units in the case
of Mr. Kirchheimer, and both Class A and OCGH units in the case of Messrs. Wintrob, Frank and Molz.
(2) The fair market value of $42.10 per Class A unit and $33.68 per OCGH unit is based on the closing price for our Class A
units on December 31, 2017, less a discount applied to OCGH units as detailed in notes 2 and 14 to our consolidated
financial statements.
CEO to Median Employee Pay Ratio
As required by Section 953(b) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and
Item 402(u) of Regulation S-K, we are providing the following information about the ratio of the annual total
compensation of Mr. Jay Wintrob, our Chief Executive Officer, to the median of the annual total compensation of our
employees, other than Mr. Wintrob. We selected December 31, 2017 as the date on which we would identify the
median employee. To identify the median employee, we used the sum of 2017 base salary (annualized for full-time
employees hired during 2017 and pro-rated for part-time and temporary employees), 2017 cash bonus, overtime
pay accrued in 2017 and equity grants earned in respect of 2017 compensation.
The 2017 annual total compensation of our CEO is the amount as reflected in the “Total” column of our
Summary Compensation Table for 2017. Mr. Wintrob had 2017 annual total compensation of $15,584,220. Our
median employee’s annual total compensation for 2017 was $200,000. As a result, we estimate that Mr. Wintrob’s
2017 annual total compensation was approximately 78 times that of our median employee. Mr. Wintrob received a
non-recurring equity award outside his annual compensation arrangement in 2017. Excluding this one-time award
from Mr. Wintrob’s annual total compensation for 2017 would result in annual total compensation of $11,435,720.
Excluding the one-time equity award in this manner would result in a pay ratio for 2017 of approximately 57 times
that of our median employee.
This pay ratio is a reasonable estimate calculated in a manner consistent with SEC rules based on our
payroll and employment records and the methodology described above. The SEC rules for identifying the median
compensated employee and calculating the pay ratio based on that employee’s annual total compensation allow
companies to adopt a variety of methodologies, to apply certain exclusions, and to make reasonable estimates and
assumptions that reflect their compensation practices. As such, the pay ratio reported by other companies may not
be comparable to the pay ratio reported above, as other companies may have different employment and
compensation practices and may utilize different methodologies, exclusions, estimates and assumptions in
calculating their own pay ratios.
213
Director Compensation Table for 2017
The following table sets forth the cash and equity compensation paid to our outside directors listed below
for the year ended December 31, 2017:
Name
Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash (1)
Unit Awards (2)
Other
Compensation
Total
Robert E. Denham ................................................... $
Steven J. Gilbert ...................................................... $
D. Richard Masson .................................................. $
Wayne G. Pierson ................................................... $
Marna C. Whittington ............................................... $
75,000
100,000
100,000
100,000
115,000
$
$
$
$
$
102,469
102,469
102,469
102,469
102,469
$
$
$
$
$
—
$
177,469
—
$
12,165 (3) $
—
—
$
$
202,469
214,634
202,469
217,469
(1) Annual cash retainer and fees for serving on our Board of Directors and, other than Mr. Denham, for serving on the Audit
Committee of our Board.
(2) On March 31, 2017, we granted 2,262 Class A units to each of Messrs. Denham, Gilbert, Masson and Pierson and
Ms. Whittington, which will vest ratably over four years beginning on February 15, 2017, in consideration of their service as
members of our board of directors in 2017. The number of outstanding and unvested Class A units held by Messrs.
Denham, Masson, Pierson and Gilbert and Ms. Whittington as of December 31, 2017 was 5,805, 5,805, 4,931, 2,567, and
5,805 units, respectively. We recognize expense for financial statement reporting purposes in respect of the unvested
Class A units received by our directors on the basis of the value of those units at the time of the grant pursuant to ASC
Topic 718, Accounting for Stock Compensation. Please see notes 2 and 14 to our consolidated financial statements
included elsewhere in this annual report for further information concerning the assumptions underlying such expense.
(3) Represents the cost of internet services provided at personal residence.
During 2017, we compensated our outside directors named above through an annual cash retainer of
$75,000 and the grant of our Class A units. Directors who were also senior executives during any portion of 2017,
specifically Messrs. Marks, Karsh, Stone, Wintrob and Frank, do not receive any additional compensation for
serving on our board of directors. Members of our audit committee receive an additional annual retainer of $25,000,
and the chair of the audit committee receives an additional annual retainer of $15,000. All members of our board of
directors are reimbursed for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in attending board meetings.
The number of Class A units granted for Messrs. Denham, Gilbert, Masson and Pierson and Ms.
Whittington is that number of Class A units having a value equal to $100,000, determined based on the average
closing price of the Class A units during the 20 trading days prior to February 24, 2017.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
As described under “Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance—Board Structure and
Governance—Controlled Company Exemption,” we are a “controlled company” within the meaning of the NYSE
corporate governance standards and do not have a compensation committee. Mr. Wintrob makes all final
determinations regarding executive officer compensation, with input from Messrs. Marks and Karsh as applicable.
For a description of certain transactions involving us and our directors and executive officers, please see “Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.”
Compensation Committee Report
As described above, our board of directors does not have a compensation committee. The executive
committee of the board of directors identified below has reviewed and discussed with management the foregoing
Compensation Discussion and Analysis and, based on such review and discussion, has determined that the
Compensation Discussion and Analysis should be included in this annual report.
Howard S. Marks
Bruce A. Karsh
Jay S. Wintrob
John B. Frank
214
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder
Matters
The following table sets forth information regarding the current beneficial ownership of our Class A units and
Class B units and the OCGH units by:
• each person known to us to beneficially own more than 5% of any class of the outstanding voting
securities of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC;
• each of our directors;
• each of our named executive officers; and
• all directors and executive officers as a group.
In the following table, the applicable percentage ownership with respect to the Class A units and the Class B
units beneficially owned represents the applicable unitholder’s holdings of Class A units and Class B units,
respectively, as a percentage of 70,297,761 Class A units outstanding and 85,968,924 Class B units outstanding,
respectively, as of February 12, 2018. The applicable percentage ownership with respect to the OCGH units
beneficially owned represents the applicable unitholder’s holdings of OCGH units as a percentage of the
156,266,685 Oaktree Operating Group units outstanding as of February 12, 2018. The applicable unitholder’s
aggregate holdings of Class A units and OCGH units represent such unitholder’s aggregate economic interest in the
Oaktree Operating Group. Although holders of OCGH units are entitled, subject to vesting requirements and
transfer restrictions, to exchange their OCGH units for, at the option of our board of directors, our Class A units on a
one-for-one basis, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of
equal value or any combination of the foregoing, such exchanges require board approval and thus holders of
OCGH units are not deemed to beneficially own the equivalent number of Class A units.
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC. Under these rules, more than
one person may be deemed a beneficial owner of the same securities, and a person may be deemed a beneficial
owner of securities as to which he has no economic interest. To our knowledge, except as otherwise set forth in the
notes to the following table, each person named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to
all of the interests shown as beneficially owned by such person, subject to applicable community property laws.
Unless otherwise specified, the address of each person named in the table is c/o Oaktree Capital Group, LLC, 333
South Grand Avenue, 28th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071.
215
Named Executive Officers and Directors
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
Class A Units
Beneficially Owned
Class B Units
Beneficially Owned
OCGH Units
Beneficially Owned (1)
Howard S. Marks ..........................
Bruce A. Karsh ..............................
Jay S. Wintrob ..............................
John B. Frank ...............................
Daniel D. Levin .............................
101,826
101,826
99,079
41,667
77,006
Sheldon M. Stone .........................
101,009
96,665
24,672
2,668
58,655
110,912
6,481
16,822
871,343
Todd E. Molz .................................
Robert E. Denham ........................
Steven J. Gilbert ...........................
Larry W. Keele ..............................
D. Richard Masson .......................
Wayne G. Pierson (3) .....................
Marna C. Whittington ....................
All executive officers and directors
as a group (14 persons) ............
5% Unitholders
FMR LLC (4) ..................................
Capital World Investors (5) .............
Oaktree Capital Group Holdings,
L.P. ............................................
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
— (2)
— (2)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
15,791,856
16,253,472
225,000
1,952,672
—
8,966,757
190,884
—
—
2,731,568
2,682,424
—
—
10.1%
10.4
*
1.2
—
5.7
*
—
—
1.7
1.7
—
—
48,794,633
31.2
—
—
—
—
3,388,270
3,335,000
5.4%
5.3
13,000
*
85,968,924
100%
Represents less than 1%.
*
(1) Subject to certain restrictions, each OCGH unitholder has the right, subject to the approval of our board of directors, to
exchange his or her units following the expiration of any applicable lock-up period pursuant to the terms of an exchange
agreement. Pursuant to the exchange agreement and the terms of the OCGH partnership agreement, the OCGH units will
be exchanged for, at the option of our board of directors, our Class A units on a one-for-one basis, an equivalent amount of
cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing, and
we will cancel a corresponding number of Class B units.
(2) Excludes 13,000 Class A units and 85,968,924 Class B units held by OCGH. The general partner of OCGH is Oaktree
Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC. In their capacities as members of the executive committee of Oaktree Capital Group
Holdings GP, LLC holding more than 50% of the aggregate number of OCGH units held by all of the members of the
executive committee as a group, Mr. Marks and Mr. Karsh may be deemed to be beneficial owners of the securities held by
OCGH. Each of Mr. Marks and Mr. Karsh disclaims beneficial ownership of such securities.
(3) Excludes 7,251,607 OCGH units held by Acorn Investors, LLC, which Mr. Pierson may be deemed to beneficially own.
Mr. Pierson is the President of Acorn Investors, LLC and disclaims beneficial ownership of the Class A and OCGH units
held by that entity.
(4) Reflects Class A units beneficially owned as of December 31, 2017 by FMR LLC based on a Schedule 13G filed by FMR
LLC on February 13, 2018. The Schedule 13G includes 3,338,270 Class A units beneficially owned by Abigail Johnson
and Fidelity Management & Research Company (together with FMR LLC and Abigail Johnson, “Fidelity”), a wholly owned
subsidiary of FMR LLC, in its capacity as investment adviser to various registered investment companies (the “Fidelity
funds”). The Schedule 13G states that members of the Johnson family, including Abigail, through their ownership of FMR
LLC voting common stock and the execution of a shareholders’ voting agreement, may be deemed a controlling group with
respect to FMR LLC. The Schedule 13G also states that neither FMR LLC nor Ms. Johnson has the sole power to vote or
direct the voting of the shares owned directly by the Fidelity funds, which power resides with the Fidelity funds’ boards of
trustees pursuant to established guidelines. The address of Fidelity is 245 Summer Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02210.
(5) Reflects Class A units beneficially owned as of December 29, 2017 by Capital World Investors, a division of Capital
Research and Management Company, based on a Schedule 13G filed by Capital World Investors on February 14, 2018.
The address of Capital World Investors is 333 South Hope Street, Los Angeles, California 90071.
216
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table sets forth information concerning the awards that may be issued under the 2011 Plan as
of December 31, 2017.
Plan Category
Number of
Securities to be
Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding
Options,
Warrants and
Rights (1)
Weighted-
Average Exercise
Price of
Outstanding
Options,
Warrants and
Rights
Number of
Securities
Remaining
Available for
Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation
Plans (excluding
securities
reflected in
column (a)) (2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders ...........................
11,426,213
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders .....................
Total (3)
........................................................................................................
—
11,426,213
—
—
—
11,792,338
—
11,792,338
(1) Reflects the aggregate number of OCGH units, Class A units, phantom units and EVUs granted under the 2011 Plan as of
December 31, 2017. Please see note 14 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report
for additional information.
(2) The 2011 Plan provides that the maximum number of Units that may be delivered pursuant to awards under the 2011 Plan
is 22,300,000, as increased on January 1 of each year beginning in 2012 by a number of Units equal to the excess of (a)
15% of the number of outstanding Oaktree Operating Group units on December 31 of the immediately preceding year over
(b) the number of Oaktree Operating Group units that have been issued or are issuable under the 2011 Plan as of such
date, except that our board of directors may, in its discretion, increase the number of Units covered by the 2011 Plan by a
lesser amount. The issuance of Units or the payment of cash upon the exercise of an award or in consideration of the
cancellation or termination of an award will reduce the total number of Units available under the 2011 Plan, as applicable.
Units underlying awards under the 2011 Plan that are forfeited, cancelled, expire unexercised or are settled in cash will be
available again to be used as awards under the 2011 Plan. However, Units used to pay the required exercise price or tax
obligations, or Units not issued in connection with the settlement of an award or that are used or withheld to satisfy tax
obligations of a participant, will not be available again for other awards under the 2011 Plan.
(3) As of December 31, 2017, 4,929,054 OCGH units have been granted under the 2007 Plan. However, such amounts are
not reflected in this table because our board of directors has resolved that the administrator of the 2007 Plan will no longer
grant awards under the 2007 Plan.
217
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Exchange Agreement
Under the terms of the OCGH limited partnership agreement, its general partner may elect in its discretion to
declare an open period during which an OCGH unitholder may exchange its OCGH units for, at the option of our
board of directors, Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other
consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing. The general partner determines the number of
units eligible for exchange within a given open period and, if the OCGH unitholders request to exchange a number
of units in excess of the amount eligible for exchange, which units to exchange taking into account such factors as
the general partner determines appropriate. In addition, the general partner may at its sole discretion cause a
mandatory sale or exchange of OCGH units owned by any OCGH unitholder. Upon approval of our board of
directors, OCGH units that are selected for exchange in accordance with the foregoing will be exchanged, at the
option of our board of directors, into Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market
prices, other consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing pursuant to the terms of the
exchange agreement. The exchange agreement generally provides that:
• such OCGH units will be acquired by the Intermediate Holding Companies in exchange for, at the option
of our board of directors, Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market
prices, other consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing;
•
•
the OCGH units acquired by the Intermediate Holding Companies may then be redeemed by OCGH in
exchange for Oaktree Operating Group units;
the Intermediate Holding Companies may exchange Oaktree Operating Group units with each other such
that, immediately after such exchange, each Intermediate Holding Company holds Oaktree Operating
Group units only in the Oaktree Operating Group entity for which such Intermediate Holding Company
serves as the general partner; and
• we will cancel a corresponding number of Class B units.
Tax Receivable Agreement
As described above, subject to certain restrictions, including the approval of our board of directors, each
OCGH unitholder has the right to (or may be required to) exchange his or her OCGH units for, at the option of our
board of directors, Class A units, an equivalent amount of cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other
consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing. Our Intermediate Holding Companies will deliver,
at the option of our board of directors, Class A units on a one-for-one basis, an equivalent amount of cash based on
then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing in exchange
for the applicable OCGH unitholder’s OCGH units pursuant to the exchange agreement. These exchanges,
including our purchase of Oaktree Operating Group units in connection with the 2007 Private Offering and in
connection with our initial public offering in April 2012 and subsequent follow-on offerings, resulted in, and are
expected to result in, increases in the tax basis of the tangible and intangible assets of the Oaktree Operating
Group. These increases in tax basis have increased and will increase (for tax purposes) depreciation and
amortization deductions and reduce gain on sales of assets, and therefore reduce the taxes of two of our
Intermediate Holding Companies, Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc.
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. entered into a tax receivable agreement with the
OCGH unitholders that provides for the payment by Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. to the
OCGH unitholders of 85% of the amount of cash savings, if any, in U.S. federal, state and local income tax that
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. actually realizes (or is deemed to realize in the case of an early
termination payment by Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. or a change of control, as discussed
below) as a result of these increases in tax basis and of certain other tax benefits related to our entering into the tax
receivable agreement, including tax benefits attributable to payments under the tax receivable agreement. These
payment obligations are obligations of Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. and not of the Oaktree
Operating Group.
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. expect to benefit from the remaining 15% of cash
savings, if any, in income tax that they realize. For purposes of the tax receivable agreement, cash savings in
income tax will be computed by comparing the actual income tax liability of Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF
Holdings, Inc. to the amount of such taxes that Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. would have
been required to pay had there been no increase to the tax basis of the tangible and intangible assets of the
Oaktree Operating Group as a result of the exchanges and had Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF
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Holdings, Inc. not entered into the tax receivable agreement. An OCGH unitholder may also elect to make a
charitable contribution of units. In such a case, an exchange under the exchange agreement to facilitate a
charitable contribution will not result in an increase in the tax basis of the assets of the Oaktree Operating Group;
therefore, no payments will be made under the tax receivable agreement.
The term of the tax receivable agreement commenced upon the consummation of the 2007 Private Offering
and continues until all such tax benefits have been utilized or expired, unless Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF
Holdings, Inc. exercises its right to terminate the tax receivable agreement for an amount based on the agreed
payments remaining to be made under the agreement. Estimating the amount of payments that may be made
under the tax receivable agreement is by its nature imprecise, as the calculation of amounts payable depends on a
variety of factors. The actual increase in tax basis, as well as the amount and timing of any payments under the tax
receivable agreement, will vary depending upon a number of factors, including:
•
•
•
•
•
the timing of the exchanges – for instance, the increase in any tax deductions will vary depending on the
fair market value, which may fluctuate over time, of the depreciable or amortizable assets of the Oaktree
Operating Group at the time of the transaction;
the price of our Class A units at the time of the exchanges – the increase in any tax deductions, as well as
the tax basis increase in other assets, of the Oaktree Operating Group, is directly proportional to the
market value of our Class A units at the time of the exchange;
the extent to which an exchange of OCGH units is taxable – if an exchange is not taxable for any reason
(for instance, in connection with a charitable contribution), increased deductions will not be available;
the amount and timing of our income – Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. will be
required to pay 85% of the tax savings as and when realized, if any; and
the corporate income tax rates (both U.S. federal and state and local) in effect at the time the tax
deductions are utilized to offset taxable income - since an increase in tax rates will generally result in
higher payments, and a decrease in tax rates will generally result in lower payments.
If Oaktree Holdings, Inc. or Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. does not have taxable income, they are not required
to make payments under the tax receivable agreement for that taxable year because no tax savings will have been
actually realized. We expect that as a result of the size of the increases in the tax basis of the tangible and
intangible assets of the Oaktree Operating Group, the payments that we may make under the tax receivable
agreement will be substantial. Assuming no material changes in the relevant tax law and that we earn sufficient
taxable income to realize the full tax benefit of the increased amortization of our assets, we expect that remaining
payments under the tax receivable agreement (“TRA payments”) in connection with the 2007 Private Offering, our
initial public offering in 2012 and our subsequent follow-on offerings will aggregate to $17.3 million over the period
ending approximately in 2029, $36.8 million over the period ending approximately in 2034, $51.1 million over the
period ending approximately in 2035, $38.6 million over the period ending approximately in 2036, $32.5 million over
the period ending approximately in 2037, and $34.3 million over the period ending approximately in 2040,
respectively. We have begun to make payments in respect of the 2007 Private Offering, our initial public offering,
and our 2013, 2014 and 2015 follow-on offerings. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we made TRA
payments in respect of the year ended December 31, 2016 of $4,397,744, $4,208,537, $2,139,654, $773,030,
$322,340, $222,462, and $263,793 to Howard Marks, our Co-Chairman and a director; Bruce Karsh, our Co-
Chairman, Chief Investment Officer and a director; Sheldon Stone, a principal and a director; D. Richard Masson, a
director; John Frank, our Vice Chairman and a director; David Kirchheimer, our former Chief Financial Officer, a
former principal and a former director; and Larry Keele, a director and a former principal, respectively. We have not
yet begun to make TRA payments in respect of the February 2018 follow-on offering. In addition, we expect that
future TRA payments in connection with the 2007 Private Offering, our initial public offering and the May 2013,
March 2014, March 2015 and February 2018 follow-on offerings to Messrs. Marks, Karsh, Stone, Masson, Frank,
Kirchheimer, Keele and Todd Molz, our General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer, will be approximately
$47.6 million, $44.7 million, $23.1 million, $7.5 million, $3.5 million, $2.5 million, $3.5 million and $0.3 million,
respectively. Future payments under the tax receivable agreement in respect of subsequent exchanges of OCGH
units would be in addition to these amounts and are expected to be substantial. The payments under the tax
receivable agreement are not conditioned upon OCGH unitholders’ continued ownership of interests in OCGH.
In addition, the tax receivable agreement provides that, upon certain mergers, asset sales, other forms of
business combinations or other changes of control, the obligations of Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF
Holdings, Inc. (or their successors) with respect to purchased interests would be based on certain assumptions,
including that Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. would have sufficient taxable income to fully
219
utilize the deductions arising from the increased tax deductions and tax basis and other benefits related to entering
into the tax receivable agreement.
Decisions we make in the course of running our business, such as with respect to the realization of an
investment by one of our funds, may influence the timing and amount of payments made under the tax receivable
agreement. For example, if one of our funds disposes of assets, the disposition may accelerate payments under
the tax receivable agreement and increase the present value of such payments.
Although we are not aware of any issue that would cause the IRS to challenge a tax basis increase, Oaktree
Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. will not be reimbursed for any payments previously made under the
tax receivable agreement. As a result, in certain circumstances, payments could be made under the tax receivable
agreement in excess of Oaktree Holdings, Inc.’s and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc.’s cash tax savings. However, the
value of such excess payments may be recouped through reduced future payments of amounts otherwise payable
by Oaktree Holdings, Inc. and Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. pursuant to the tax receivable agreement.
Oaktree Operating Group Partnership Agreements
Each of the Oaktree Operating Group partnerships either has as its sole general partner one of the
Intermediate Holding Companies or is indirectly controlled by the Intermediate Holding Companies. Accordingly,
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC operates all of the business and affairs of the Oaktree Operating Group and conducts
our business through the Oaktree Operating Group and its subsidiaries.
Pursuant to the partnership agreements of the Oaktree Operating Group partnerships, the Intermediate
Holding Companies that are the general partners of those partnerships (or entities controlled by the Intermediate
Holding Companies) have the right to determine when distributions will be made to the holders of Oaktree
Operating Group units and the amounts of any such distributions. If a distribution is authorized, the distribution will
be made to the holders of Oaktree Operating Group units pro rata in accordance with the percentages of their
respective interests.
Each of the Oaktree Operating Group partnerships has an identical number of units outstanding, and we use
the term “Oaktree Operating Group unit” to refer, collectively, to a unit in each of the Oaktree Operating Group
partnerships. As of February 12, 2018, there were 156,266,685 Oaktree Operating Group units outstanding. The
holders of Oaktree Operating Group units, including the Intermediate Holding Companies, will incur U.S. federal,
state and local income taxes on their proportionate share of any net taxable income of the Oaktree Operating
Group. Net profits and net losses of Oaktree Operating Group units generally are allocated to the holders of such
units (including the Intermediate Holding Companies) pro rata in accordance with the percentages of their
respective interests. The partnership agreement of each Oaktree Operating Group partnership provides for cash
distributions, which we refer to as “tax distributions,” to the partners of such partnership if we determine that the
allocation of the partnership’s income will give rise to taxable income for its partners. Generally, these tax
distributions are computed based on our estimate of the net taxable income of the relevant entity allocable to a
partner multiplied by an assumed tax rate equal to the highest effective marginal combined U.S. federal, state and
local income tax rate prescribed for an individual or corporate resident in Los Angeles, California or New York, New
York (taking into account the nondeductibility of certain expenses and the character of our income). Tax
distributions are made only to the extent that all distributions from the Oaktree Operating Group for the relevant
year were insufficient to cover such tax liabilities.
The partnership agreements of the Oaktree Operating Group partnerships also provide that substantially all
of our expenses will be borne by the Oaktree Operating Group (excluding, for example, obligations incurred under
the tax receivable agreement by the Intermediate Holding Companies, income tax expenses of the Intermediate
Holding Companies and payments on indebtedness incurred by the Intermediate Holding Companies).
Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. Units
OCGH unitholders hold OCGH units. OCGH, in turn, holds an equivalent number of Oaktree Operating
Group units. The units in OCGH held by the OCGH unitholders as of February 12, 2018 have vesting provisions.
Upon expiration of the vesting period, OCGH unitholders may, subject to certain restrictions, sell their OCGH units
or exchange their OCGH units into, at the option of our board of directors, Class A units, an equivalent amount of
cash based on then-prevailing market prices, other consideration of equal value or any combination of the foregoing
and, subsequently, sell any such Class A units received. OCGH and our board of directors may limit the number of
OCGH units that may be exchanged after expiration of the relevant vesting period, based on such factors as they
deem appropriate, including the market’s ability to absorb sales of the exchanged Class A units. In addition, the
general partner of OCGH may at its sole discretion cause a mandatory sale or exchange of OCGH units owned by
any OCGH unitholder. As of the date of this annual report, sales of Class A units by our employees may only be
220
effected during “open periods” authorized by us. The amount of OCGH units vesting will vary year to year,
sometimes materially, but as of February 12, 2018, OCGH units due to vest after 2018 represented approximately
1.1% of the total outstanding number of Oaktree Operating Group units.
OCGH unitholders that are employees will generally forfeit all unvested units in OCGH upon termination of
their employment for any reason unless the termination is due to death or disability or if the forfeiture requirement is
waived. Except as otherwise set forth in any employment agreement or letter agreement, starting with OCGH unit
grants issued in 2014 any unvested OCGH units held by employees subject to four-year vesting will generally vest
in full upon termination of their employment by us without cause if such employee delivers to us a release for our
benefit. Any of the OCGH units that were outstanding at the time of the 2007 Private Offering that are forfeited will
be reallocated among the remaining OCGH unitholders at the time of such offering. Any of the OCGH units issued
after the date of the 2007 Private Offering that are forfeited will result in a corresponding forfeiture of Oaktree
Operating Group units held by OCGH.
Our Manager
Our operating agreement provides that so long as the Oaktree control condition is satisfied, our manager will
control the membership of our board of directors. Our board of directors will manage all of our operations and
activities and will have discretion over significant corporate actions, such as the issuance of securities, payment of
distributions, sales of assets, making certain amendments to our operating agreement and other matters.
Holders of our Class A units and Class B units have no right to elect our manager, which is controlled by our
senior executives.
Aircraft Use
We lease from Mr. Karsh an aircraft owned personally by him on a non-exclusive basis, pursuant to which he
may use the plane for both Company-related travel and personal travel. During the year ended December 31,
2017, we paid Mr. Karsh $876,633 in connection with our use of his aircraft for Company-related travel under this
lease agreement. Please see “Item 11. Executive Compensation—All Other Compensation Supplemental Table” for
a description of a payment we made to Mr. Karsh for his personal travel under this lease agreement.
Investments in Funds
Our directors and executive officers are permitted to invest their own capital (or the capital of family trusts or
other estate planning vehicles they control) in our funds. These investment opportunities are available to all of our
professionals who we have determined have a status that reasonably permits us to offer them these types of
investments in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. These investment opportunities are available on
the same terms and conditions as those applicable to third-party investors in our funds and bear their share of
management fees, except that they are not subject to incentive fees. As of December 31, 2017, we managed
approximately $592 million of AUM invested by our directors, executive officers and certain current and former
employees in our funds. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the following directors and executive officers
made the following contributions of their own capital (and/or the capital of family trusts or other estate planning
vehicles they control) to our funds and are expected to continue to contribute capital in our funds from time to time:
Mr. Frank contributed an aggregate of $1,002,911; Mr. Karsh and an organization affiliated with Mr. Karsh
contributed an aggregate of $4,842,999; Mr. Keele contributed an aggregate of $225,667; Mr. Kirchheimer
contributed an aggregate of $2,303,376; Mr. Marks contributed an aggregate of $3,750,000; Mr. Stone contributed
an aggregate of $4,948,107; Mr. Masson contributed an aggregate of $255,055; and Mr. Wintrob contributed an
aggregate of $847,740, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the following directors and
executive officers (and/or family trusts or other estate planning vehicles they control) received the following net
distributions from our funds as a result of their invested capital: Mr. Frank received $1,386,691; Mr. Karsh and an
organization affiliated with Mr. Karsh received an aggregate of $5,145,709; Mr. Keele received $874,387;
Mr. Kirchheimer received $3,424,328; Mr. Marks received $5,127,959; Mr. Masson received $618,417; Mr. Stone
received $8,456,531; Ms. Whittington received $145,483; Mr. Denham received $132,437 and Mr. Wintrob received
$702,635 from our funds, respectively.
Offsets to Distributions in Respect of OCGH Units
Pursuant to an agreement between Mr. Marks and Oaktree Capital Management (UK) LLP, a subsidiary of
ours in the United Kingdom, we provide £153,500 ($207,124 based on the average exchange rate for the 24-hour
period ending December 31, 2017 as reported by www.oanda.com) per year to Mr. Marks, which is offset by
distributions in respect of OCGH units to which Mr. Marks is entitled. In accordance with ASC Topic 718, the
payment of future distributions in respect of OCGH units is factored into the grant date fair value of the OCGH units
(which value is used for determining the compensation expense for such units under ASC Topic 718) and any
221
distributions made with respect to such units are therefore not treated as an additional compensation expense by
such subsidiary in the year in which such distributions are paid.
Transactions with Other Related Persons
We have and may in the future continue to enter into ordinary course transactions with unaffiliated entities
known to us to beneficially own more than 5% of any class of the outstanding voting securities of the Company.
These transactions may include investments by them or their affiliates in our funds generally on the same terms and
conditions offered to other unaffiliated fund investors and participation in our capital markets transactions, including
underwritings and syndications, generally on the same terms and conditions offered to other unaffiliated capital
markets participants. See “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related
Stockholder Matters.”
Limitations on Liability; Indemnification of Directors, Officers and Manager
Our operating agreement provides that our directors and officers will be liable to us or our unitholders for an
act or omission only if such act or omission constitutes a breach of the duties owed to us or our unitholders, as
applicable, by any such director or officer and such breach is the result of (a) willful malfeasance, gross negligence,
the commission of a felony or a material violation of law, in each case, that has or could reasonably be expected to
have a material adverse effect on us or (b) fraud and that our manager will not be liable to us or our unitholders for
its actions.
Moreover, in our operating agreement we have agreed to indemnify our directors, officers and manager, to
the fullest extent permitted by law, against all expenses and liabilities (including judgments, fines, penalties, interest,
amounts paid in settlement with our approval and counsel fees and disbursements) arising from the performance of
any of their obligations or duties in connection with their service to us, including in connection with any civil,
criminal, administrative, investigative or other action, suit or proceeding to which any such person may hereafter be
made a party by reason of being or having been one of our directors or officers or our manager, except for any
expenses or liabilities that have been finally judicially determined to have arisen primarily from acts or omissions
that violated the standard set forth in the preceding paragraph.
The indemnification rights that we provide to our directors and officers are more expansive than those
provided to the directors and officers of a Delaware corporation.
In addition to the indemnity that exists in our operating agreement, our subsidiary Oaktree Capital
Management, L.P. has entered into separate indemnification agreements with each of our directors and our
executive officers, that indemnify them, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, against all expenses and
liabilities (including judgments, fines, penalties, interest and amounts paid in settlement) incurred by them in
connection with any proceeding in which any of them are made a party to or any claim, issue or matter, except to
the extent that it shall have been determined in a final non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction
that such expenses and liabilities arose primarily from acts or omissions that constituted a breach of their duties and
such breach was the result of (a) willful malfeasance, gross negligence, the commission of a felony or a material
violation of applicable law (including any federal or state securities law), in each case, that resulted in, or could
reasonably be expected to result in, a material adverse effect on us or our affiliates or (b) fraud. Such
indemnification agreements will continue until and terminate upon the later of (a) 10 years after the indemnitee has
ceased to occupy any positions or have any relationships with us or any of our affiliates, (b) the final termination of
all proceedings pending or threatened during such period to which any indemnitee may be subject and (c) the
expiration of the applicable statute of limitations for any possible claim or threatened, pending or completed action,
suit or proceeding.
Statement of Policy Regarding Transactions with Related Persons
Our board of directors has adopted a written statement of policy for our company regarding transactions with
related persons. Our related person policy covers any “related person transaction” including, but not limited to, any
transaction, arrangement or relationship (including any indebtedness or guarantee of indebtedness) or series of
similar transactions, arrangements or relationships that is reportable by us under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K in
which we were or are to be a participant and the amount involved exceeds $120,000 and in which any “related
person” (as defined in Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K) had or will have a direct or indirect material interest. With
certain limited exceptions, our related person policy requires that each related person transaction, and any material
amendment or modification to a related person transaction, be reviewed and approved or ratified by a committee or
subcommittee of our board of directors composed solely of disinterested directors, by a majority of the disinterested
members of our board of directors, by a majority of disinterested members of the executive committee of our board
of directors or as otherwise approved in accordance with our operating agreement.
222
Director Independence
Because our senior executives hold more than 50% of our voting power, we are a “controlled company” as
defined in the NYSE corporate governance standards. Accordingly, we have elected not to comply with certain
NYSE corporate governance standards, including the requirements that a majority of our board of directors consist
of independent directors and that we have a compensation committee and a nominating/corporate governance
committee with written charters addressing the committee’s purpose and responsibilities that are composed entirely
of independent directors.
At such time that we are no longer deemed a controlled company, the board of directors will become
comprised of a majority of independent directors in accordance with the applicable standards set forth by the SEC
and NYSE for determining director independence. Presently, in applying such SEC and NYSE independence
standards and the independence standards described in our corporate governance guidelines, the board of
directors has determined that four of its members, namely Messrs. Gilbert, Masson and Pierson and Ms.
Whittington, are each independent. Please see “Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance—Board
Structure and Governance” and “—Corporate Governance Guidelines.”
223
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees for professional services provided by our independent
registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
For the Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
Oaktree
Capital
Group, LLC
Oaktree
Consolidated
Funds and
Affiliates
Oaktree
Capital
Group, LLC
Oaktree
Consolidated
Funds and
Affiliates
($ in thousands, except where noted)
......................................................................................... $
Audit fees (1)
Audit-related fees (2)
.............................................................................
Tax fees (3) ............................................................................................
Other fees (4) ........................................................................................
3,704
$
605
$
3,434
$
326
6,412
—
56
470
—
300
4,886
120
444
—
210
—
(1) Audit fees consist of fees for services related to the annual audit of our consolidated financial statements, the audit of the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, reviews of our interim consolidated financial statements on Form
10-Q, statutory audits, and services that only the independent auditors can reasonably provide such as services
associated with SEC registration statements or other documents issued in connection with securities offerings (including
consents and comfort letters), and accounting consultations and services that are normally provided in connection with
statutory and regulatory filings and engagements.
(2) Audit-related fees include fees associated with examinations of operating controls at our investment adviser, accounting
consultations, and attestation services not required by statute or regulation.
(3) Tax fees consist of fees related to tax compliance and tax advisory services. Tax fees in 2017 include $2,783 for tax
compliance services and $4,099 for tax advisory services. Tax fees in 2016 include $3,363 for tax compliance services
and $1,733 for tax advisory services.
(4) Other fees consist of fees related to advice and assistance regarding European statutory regulatory reporting and capital
requirements.
In accordance with our audit committee charter, the audit committee is required to approve, in advance, all
audit and non-audit services to be provided by our independent registered public accounting firm. All services
reported in the Audit, Audit-related and Tax categories above were approved by the audit committee. Of the total
aggregate fees in 2016, less than 0.1% were approved by the audit committee pursuant to the de minimis exception
provided by Section (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X. No amounts were approved pursuant to the de
minimis exception in 2017. Our audit committee charter is available on our website at www.oaktreecapital.com
under the “Unitholders—Investor Relations” section.
224
PART IV.
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
(a)
The following documents are filed as part of this report:
Financial statements: Please see Item 8 above.
(1)
Financial statement schedules: Schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting
(2)
regulations of the SEC are not required under the related instructions or are not applicable and
therefore have been omitted.
Exhibits: For a list of exhibits filed with this report, please refer to the Exhibits Index on the page
immediately preceding the exhibits, which Exhibit Index is incorporated herein by reference.
(3)
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary
None.
225
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly
caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Date: February 23, 2018
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
By:
Name:
Title:
/s/ Susan Gentile
Susan Gentile
Chief Accounting Officer and Managing Director
and Authorized Signatory
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by
the following persons on behalf of the registrant in the capacities indicated on this 23rd day of February 2018:
Signature
Title
/s/ Howard S. Marks
Howard S. Marks
/s/ Bruce A. Karsh
Bruce A. Karsh
/s/ Jay S. Wintrob
Jay S. Wintrob
/s/ John B. Frank
John B. Frank
/s/ Daniel D. Levin
Daniel D. Levin
/s/ Susan Gentile
Susan Gentile
/s/ Sheldon M. Stone
Sheldon M. Stone
/s/ Robert E. Denham
Robert E. Denham
/s/ Steven J. Gilbert
Steven J. Gilbert
/s/ Larry W. Keele
Larry W. Keele
/s/ D. Richard Masson
D. Richard Masson
/s/ Wayne G. Pierson
Wayne G. Pierson
Director and Co-Chairman
Director, Co-Chairman and Chief Investment Officer
Director and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Director and Vice Chairman
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Chief Accounting Officer and Managing Director
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Director and Principal
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
/s/ Marna C. Whittington
Marna C. Whittington
Director
226
Exhibit No.
Description of Exhibit
EXHIBITS INDEX
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
Restated Certificate of Formation of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the
Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on June 17, 2011).
Third Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of the Registrant dated as of August 31, 2011
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1,
filed with the SEC on September 2, 2011).
Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of the Registrant dated as of
March 29, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement
on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on March 30, 2012).
Unit Designation, effective November 16, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to the
Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on November 18, 2015).
Specimen Certificate evidencing the Registrant’s Class A units (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on September 2,
2011).
Note and Guaranty Agreement, dated as of July 11, 2014, by and among Oaktree Capital
Management, L.P., Oaktree Capital I, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P. and Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.
and each of the purchasers party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on July 15, 2014).
Form of 3.91% Senior Notes, Series A, due September 3, 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on July 15, 2014).
Form of 4.01% Senior Notes, Series B, due September 3, 2026 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on July 15, 2014).
Form of 4.21% Senior Notes, Series C, due September 3, 2029 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on July 15, 2014).
Note and Guaranty Agreement, dated as of July 12, 2016, by and among Oaktree Capital
Management, L.P., Oaktree Capital I, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P. and Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.
and each of the purchasers party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on July 12, 2016).
Form of 3.69% Senior Notes due July 12, 2031 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the
Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on July 12, 2016).
Note and Guaranty Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2017, by and among Oaktree Capital
Management, L.P., Oaktree Capital I, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P. and Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.
and each of the purchasers party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on November 17, 2017).
Form of 3.78% Senior Notes due December 18, 2032 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the
Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on November 17, 2017).
Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Capital I, L.P., dated as of
May 25, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement
on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Capital II, L.P., dated as of
May 25, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement
on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., dated as of May 25, 2007
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1,
filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Capital Management (Cayman),
L.P., dated as of May 25, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s
Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
227
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.9
10.9.1
10.9.2
10.9.3
10.10
10.11*
10.12*
10.13*
10.14*
Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Investment Holdings,
L.P., dated as of May 25, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Registrant’s
Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.,
dated as of October 29, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant’s
Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
Second Amended and Restated Tax Receivable Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2012, by and
among Oaktree Holdings, Inc., Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc., Oaktree Capital II, L.P., Oaktree Capital
Management, L.P., Oaktree Investment Holdings, L.P., Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P. and the other
parties from time to time party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s
Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on March 30, 2012).
Second Amended and Restated Exchange Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2012, by and among
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC, OCM Holdings I, LLC, Oaktree Holdings, Inc., Oaktree AIF Holdings,
Inc., Oaktree Holdings, Ltd., Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. and the other parties from time to
time party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Registrant’s Registration
Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on March 30, 2012).
Credit Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2014, by and among Oaktree Capital Management, L.P.,
Oaktree Capital II, L.P., Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P., Oaktree Capital I, L.P., the Lenders party
thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, L/C Issuer and Swing Line
Lender, and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Lead Bookrunner
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with
the SEC on April 4, 2014).
First Amendment, dated as of November 3, 2014, to the March 31, 2014 Credit Agreement by and
among Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P., Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.,
Oaktree Capital I, L.P., the Lenders party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as
Administrative Agent, L/C Issuer and Swing Line Lender, and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as Sole
Lead Arranger and Sole Lead Bookrunner (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014, filed with the
SEC on November 7, 2014).
Second Amendment, dated as of March 31, 2016, to the March 31, 2014 Credit Agreement, by and
among Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P., Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.,
Oaktree Capital I, L.P., the Lenders party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as
Administrative Agent for the Lenders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s
Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on April 6, 2016).
Third Amendment, dated as of November 14, 2017, to the March 31, 2014 Credit Agreement, by and
among Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., Oaktree Capital II, L.P., Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P.,
Oaktree Capital I, L.P., the Lenders party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as
Administrative Agent for the Lenders. †
Form of Indemnification Agreement by and between Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. and the
director or officer named therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Registrant’s
Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on October 20, 2011).
2007 Oaktree Capital Group Equity Incentive Plan and forms of award agreements thereunder
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1,
filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
Summary Employment Agreement by and among Oaktree Capital Management Limited and Howard
Marks, dated as of September 26, 2006 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the
Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on August 1, 2011).
Sixth Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Fund GP I, L.P., dated as of
March 20, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015, filed with the SEC on August 6, 2015).
Sixth Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Fund GP II, L.P., dated as
of March 20, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015, filed with the SEC on August 6, 2015).
228
10.15*
10.16*
10.17*
10.18*
10.19*
10.20*
10.21*
10.22*
10.23*
10.24*
10.25*
10.26*
21.1
23.1
23.2
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
Fourth Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Oaktree Fund GP III, L.P., dated as
of March 20, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015, filed with the SEC on August 6, 2015).
Amended and Restated Oaktree Capital Group, LLC 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed with the SEC
on March 30, 2016).
Form of Grant Agreement under the Oaktree Capital Group, LLC 2011 Equity Incentive Plan
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2014, filed with the SEC on February 27, 2015).
Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and among the Registrant, Oaktree
Capital Management, L.P. and Jay S. Wintrob dated April 26, 2017 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,
2017, filed with the SEC on May 5, 2017).
Letter Agreement between Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. and Jay S. Wintrob dated October 6,
2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for
the year ended December 31, 2014, filed with the SEC on February 27, 2015).
Third Amended and Restated Grant Agreement under the Oaktree Capital Group, LLC 2011 Equity
Incentive Plan by and among Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P., Oaktree Capital Group Holdings
GP, LLC and Jay S. Wintrob dated February 20, 2018. †
Form of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC Class A Restricted Unit Award Agreement (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
March 31, 2016, filed with the SEC on May 9, 2016).
Form of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC 2017 Class A Restricted Unit Award Agreement. †
Form of Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. Restricted Unit Award Agreement (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
March 31, 2016, filed with the SEC on May 9, 2016).
Form of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC Class A Restricted Unit Award Agreement for Outside Directors
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended March 31, 2016, filed with the SEC on May 9, 2016).
Form of Profit Sharing Letter Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the
Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2016, filed with the
SEC on May 9, 2016).
Summaries of compensation for Daniel D. Levin, John B. Frank and Todd E. Molz (incorporated by
reference to sections C, E and F, respectively, under “Executive Compensation—Compensation
Discussion and Analysis—Compensation of the Individual NEOs” on pages 202-203 of the
Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, filed with the SEC
on February 23, 2018).
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.
Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
Certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the
Exchange Act, as adopted, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the
Exchange Act, as adopted, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished herewith).
Certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished herewith).
229
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document.
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
* Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
†
Filed herewith.
230
Exhibit 10.9.3
EXECUTION VERSION
THIRD AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT
This THIRD AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT (this “Amendment”), dated as of
November 14, 2017 is entered into by and among OAKTREE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, L.P., a Delaware
limited partnership, OAKTREE CAPITAL II, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, OAKTREE AIF
INVESTMENTS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, OAKTREE CAPITAL I, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership (each a “Borrower” and collectively, the “Borrowers”); the Required Lenders (as defined in the
Credit Agreement referred to below); and WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as
administrative agent for the Lenders (in such capacity, the “Administrative Agent”). Capitalized terms used
and not otherwise defined in this Amendment shall have the same meanings in this Amendment as set forth
in the Credit Agreement defined below.
WHEREAS, the above mentioned parties have previously entered into that certain Credit
Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2014 (as amended by that certain First Amendment to Credit Agreement,
dated as of November 3, 2014 and that certain Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of March
31, 2016 and in effect immediately prior to the Third Amendment Effective Date (as defined below), the
“Credit Agreement”).
WHEREAS, the Borrowers have requested an amendment to the Credit Agreement as set
forth below, and the Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders, on the terms and subject to the conditions
set forth herein, have agreed to so amend the Credit Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, the mutual covenants and agreements
set forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby
acknowledged, the parties hereby agree, except as otherwise set forth herein, as of the Third Amendment
Effective Date as follows:
SECTION 1. Amendments. On the terms of this Amendment and subject to the
satisfaction of the conditions precedent set forth in Section 2 below, the Credit Agreement is hereby
amended as follows:
(a)
Hedging Agreements. Section 6.2 of the Credit Agreement is hereby amended
by (1) deleting the “and” at the end of clause (h), (2) renumbering clause (i) (and all references thereto
in the Credit Agreement) as clause (j) and (3) adding thereto a new clause (i) as follows:
“(i)
Liens securing obligations under Hedging Agreements permitted pursuant to
Section 6.1(n); and”.
SECTION 2. Conditions Precedent to the Effectiveness of this Amendment. The
provisions of Section 1 above are conditioned upon, and such provisions shall not be effective until,
satisfaction of the following conditions (the first date on which all of the following conditions have
been satisfied being referred to herein as the “Third Amendment Effective Date”):
(a)
The Administrative Agent shall have received, on behalf of the Lenders, this
Amendment, duly executed and delivered by the Borrowers, the Required Lenders and the
Administrative Agent.
(b)
No Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.
(c)
The representations and warranties set forth in this Amendment shall be true
and correct as of the Third Amendment Effective Date.
(d)
The Borrowers shall have paid all fees and expenses payable to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders to be paid on or prior to the Third Amendment Effective Date
(including all fees and expenses of counsel to the Administrative Agent invoiced prior to the Third
Amendment Effective Date).
SECTION 3. Representations and Warranties.
In order
to
induce
the
Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders to enter into this Amendment and to amend the Credit
Agreement in the manner provided in this Amendment, the Borrowers represent and warrant to the
Administrative Agent and each Lender as follows:
(a)
Power and Authority. Each Borrower has all requisite power and authority to
enter into this Amendment and to carry out the transactions contemplated by, and perform its
obligations under, the Credit Agreement as amended by this Amendment (hereafter referred to as the
“Amended Credit Agreement”).
(b)
Authorization of Agreements. The execution and delivery of this Amendment
by the Borrowers and the performance of the Amended Credit Agreement by the Borrowers have
been duly authorized by all necessary action, and this Amendment has been duly executed and
delivered by the Borrower.
(c)
Enforceability. Each of this Amendment and the Amended Credit Agreement
constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Borrowers, enforceable against the Borrowers
in accordance with its terms, except as limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or other laws of general
application relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally and general principles
of equity.
(d)
No Conflict. The execution and delivery by the Borrowers of this Amendment
and the performance by the Borrowers of each of this Amendment and the Amended Credit Agreement
do not and will not (i) require any consent or approval of, registration or filing with, or any other
action by, any Governmental Authority, except such as have been obtained or made and are in full
force and effect, (ii) violate any applicable law or regulation other than violations which, individually
or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (iii) violate
the charter, by-laws, articles, limited liability company agreement, limited partnership agreement or
other organizational documents of any Borrower or any Subsidiary or any order of any Governmental
Authority, (iv) violate or result in a default under any indenture, agreement or other instrument binding
upon any Borrower or any Subsidiary or the assets of any Borrower or any Subsidiary other than
violations or defaults which, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect, (v) give rise to a right under any indenture, agreement or other
instrument binding upon any Borrower or any Subsidiary or upon the assets of any Borrower or any
Subsidiary to require any material payment to be made by any Borrower or any Subsidiary, and (vi)
result in the creation or imposition of any Lien on any asset of any Borrower or any Subsidiary.
(e)
Governmental Consents. No authorization or approval or other action by, and
no notice to or filing with, any governmental authority or regulatory body is required for the due
execution, delivery and performance by the Borrowers of this Amendment.
(f)
Representations and Warranties in the Credit Agreement. The Borrowers
confirm that the representations and warranties contained in Article III of the Credit Agreement are
(before and after giving effect to this Amendment) true and correct in all material respects (or if
qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect, in all respects) as of the Third Amendment
Effective Date (except to the extent any such representation and warranty is expressly stated to
have been made as of a specific date, in which case it shall be true and correct as of such specific
date) and that no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing; provided that the
representations and warranties contained in Section 3.4(a) are made with respect to the financial
statements as of and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 furnished by the Borrowers
pursuant to Section 5.1(a) of the Credit Agreement.
SECTION 4. Miscellaneous.
(a)
Reference to and Effect on the Credit Agreement and the other Loan
Documents.
(i)
Except as specifically amended by this Amendment and the documents
executed and delivered in connection herewith, the Credit Agreement and the other Loan Documents
shall remain in full force and effect and are hereby ratified and confirmed.
(ii)
The execution and delivery of this Amendment and performance of the
Amended Credit Agreement shall not, except as expressly provided herein, constitute a waiver of any
provision of, or operate as a waiver of any right, power or remedy of the Administrative Agent or the
Lenders under, the Credit Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents.
(iii) Upon the conditions precedent set forth herein being satisfied, this
Amendment shall be construed as one with the Credit Agreement, and the Credit Agreement shall,
where the context requires, be read and construed throughout so as to incorporate this Amendment.
(iv)
If there is any conflict between the terms and provisions of this
Amendment and the terms and provisions of the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Document, the
terms and provisions of this Amendment shall govern.
(b)
Expenses. The Borrowers acknowledge that all reasonable costs and expenses
of the Administrative Agent incurred in connection with this Amendment will be paid in accordance
with Section 9.3 of the Credit Agreement.
(c)
Headings. Section and subsection headings in this Amendment are included
for convenience of reference only and shall not constitute a part of this Amendment for any other
purpose or be given any substantive effect.
(d)
Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in one or more counterparts,
each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same
instrument. Transmission by telecopier of an executed counterpart of this Amendment shall be deemed
to constitute due and sufficient delivery of such counterpart.
(e)
Governing Law. This Amendment shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of New York without reference to conflicts of law rules other
than Section 5-1401 of the General Obligations Law of the State of New York.
(f)
Loan Document. This Amendment is a Loan Document as defined in the Credit
Agreement, and the provisions of the Credit Agreement generally applicable to Loan Documents are
applicable hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
[REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have duly executed this Amendment as of the
date first above written.
OAKTREE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, L.P.
By: /s/ JayWintrob
Name: Jay Wintrob
Title: Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ Philip McDermott
Name: Philip McDermott
Title: Vice President
OAKTREE CAPITAL II, L.P.
By: /s/ JayWintrob
Name: Jay Wintrob
Title: Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ Philip McDermott
Name: Philip McDermott
Title: Vice President
OAKTREE AIF INVESTMENTS, L.P.
By: /s/ JayWintrob
Name: Jay Wintrob
Title: Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ Philip McDermott
Name: Philip McDermott
Title: Vice President
OAKTREE CAPITAL I, L.P.
By: /s/ JayWintrob
Name: Jay Wintrob
Title: Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ Philip McDermott
Name: Philip McDermott
Title: Vice President
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as
Administrative Agent, L/C Issuer, Swing Line Lender and a
Lender
By: /s/ Julie Yamauchi
Name: Julie Yamauchi
Title:
Senior Vice President
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., as a Lender
By: /s/ Ankit Mehta
Name: Ankit Mehta
Title: Associate
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, as a Lender
By: /s/ James L. Behrmann
Name: James L. Behrmann
Title: Managing Director
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., as a Lender
By: /s/ Michael E. Kusner
Name: Michael E. Kusner
Title: Vice President
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as a
Lender
By: /s/ Edwin Soogrim
Name: Edwin Soogrim
Title: Director
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
CITIBANK, N.A., as a Lender
By: /s/ Erik Andersen
Name: Erik Andersen
Title: Vice President
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
CREDIT SUISSE AG, CAYMAN ISLANDS BRANCH, as a
Lender
By: /s/ Doreen Barr
Name: Doreen Barr
Title: Authorized Signatory
By: /s/ Andrew Griffin
Name: Andrew Griffin
Title: Authorized Signatory
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
GOLDMAN SACHS BANK USA, as a Lender
By: /s/ Chris Lam
Name: Chris Lam
Title: Authorized Signatory
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
MORGAN STANLEY BANK, N.A., as a Lender
By: /s/ Harry Comninellis
Name: Harry Comninellis
Title: Authorized Signatory
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
MUFG UNION BANK, N.A., as a Lender
By: /s/ Oscar Cortez
Name: Oscar Cortez
Title: Director
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
BARCLAYS BANK PLC, as a Lender
By: /s/ Richard Cunningham
Name: Richard Cunningham
Title: Managing Director
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
DEUTSCHE BANK AG NEW YORK BRANCH, as a
Lender
By: /s/ Alice Neumann
Name: Alice Neumann
Title: Managing Director
By: /s/ Ming K. Chu
Name: Ming K. Chu
Title: Director
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as a Lender
By: /s/ Michael F. Ugliarolo
Name: Michael F. Ugliarolo
Title: Vice President
[Signature Page to Third Amendment to Credit Agreement - Oaktree]
Exhibit 10.20
EXECUTION COPY
THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED
GRANT AGREEMENT
UNDER THE
OAKTREE CAPITAL GROUP, LLC
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
Effective as of December 2, 2014 (the “Grant Date”), OAKTREE CAPITAL GROUP
HOLDINGS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (the “Partnership”), OAKTREE CAPITAL
GROUP HOLDINGS GP, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (in its capacity as the general
partner of the Partnership, the “General Partner”), and Jay S. Wintrob, an individual (“Executive”)
entered into a GRANT AGREEMENT (the “Original Grant Agreement”), which was amended and
restated as of (i) February 24, 2015 (the “First A&R Grant Agreement”), and (ii) as of April 26, 2017
(the “Second A&R Grant Agreement”), and is hereby being amended and restated as of February 20,
2018 (such Second A&R Grant Agreement, as amended and restated herein, and as may be amended,
modified, supplemented or restated from time to time, this “Agreement”). Capitalized terms used but
not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Fifth Amended and Restated
Limited Partnership Agreement of the Partnership, made and entered into as of November 10, 2015 (as
may be amended, modified, supplemented or restated from time to time, the “Partnership Agreement”)
and that certain Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. Equity Value Unit Designation, dated as of the
Grant Date (as may be amended, modified, supplemented or restated from time to time, the “EVU
Designation”), as applicable.
Recitals
WHEREAS, the Oaktree Capital Group, LLC 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”)
was adopted for purposes of promoting the long-term financial interests and growth of the Oaktree
Group by, among other things, providing select investment professionals, employees, directors,
consultants and advisors of the Oaktree Group with equity-based awards based upon Units (as defined
under the Plan);
WHEREAS, the Board (defined below) has approved (i) the grant and issuance of the
Granted Units (defined below) to Executive on the Grant Date pursuant to the Original Agreement and
the Plan, subject to the terms and conditions of the Grant Documents (defined below), (ii) the
modifications of certain terms of the Original Grant Agreement, as reflected in the First A&R Grant
Agreement, and (iii) the modifications of certain terms of the First A&R Grant Agreement, as reflected
in the Second A&R Grant Agreement; and
WHEREAS, Executive and the General Partner have determined to modify certain terms
of the Second A&R Grant Agreement to correct a scrivener’s error under which certain cash distributions
payable to Executive that are attributable to Executive’s “2017 OCGH Grant” (defined below) should
reduce the value to which Executive is entitled hereunder but were not reflected in the Second A&R
Grant Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements herein
contained, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, hereby agree as follows:
1.
Grant of Units. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the
Partnership Agreement and the other Grant Documents:
Agreement
(a)
on the Grant Date, the Partnership granted and issued to Executive, and Executive
accepted and received from the Partnership, 2,000,000 EVUs (the “Granted Units”), which are
Units of the Partnership described in the EVU Designation;
(b)
on the Grant Date, Executive was admitted as a Limited Partner, and each of the
General Partner, the Partnership and Executive consented to such admission pursuant to
Section 4.2 of the Partnership Agreement, and, as of the Grant Date, Executive was regarded
as a partner of the Partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes and applicable state and
local income tax purposes, and shall be treated as such;
(c)
Executive acknowledges that before the Grant Date he received and reviewed
carefully a copy of (i) the Partnership Agreement, (ii) the Exchange Agreement, (iii) the Tax
Receivable Agreement, (iv) the Plan, (v) the EVU Designation and (vi) each other agreement,
instrument or document required by any Oaktree Group Member that was executed and delivered
by Executive in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (collectively,
including the Partnership Agreement, the Exchange Agreement, the Tax Receivable Agreement,
and the Plan, as each such document may be amended, modified, supplemented or restated in
accordance with its respective terms from time to time, the “Grant Documents”); and
(d)
on the Grant Date, Executive joined as a party to, and agreed to be bound by
each and every provision of, the Partnership Agreement, the Exchange Agreement and the Tax
Receivable Agreement.
2.
Terms and Conditions. The Granted Units shall be subject to the terms and
conditions set forth in the following table:
EVUs
Each EVU shall give Executive the right to receive the Applicable End Date
Allocation (defined below), certain allocations and cash distributions (as described
below under “Certain Cash Distributions”), other allocations upon the occurrence of
certain contingencies, and the right to recapitalize the EVUs into Units of the type that
are eligible to be exchanged pursuant to the Exchange Agreement (referred to herein
as “Partnership Units”), as described below under “Recapitalization”, subject to the
terms described in this Agreement, the EVU Designation and the Exchange
Agreement.
-2-
Applicable
With respect to 666,666 EVUs (the “Tranche One EVUs”), the Applicable Measurement
Measurement
Period shall be January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2019 (with December 31, 2019
Period
referred to herein as the “Tranche One End Date”).
With respect to 666,667 EVUs (the “Tranche Two EVUs”), the Applicable Measurement
Period shall be January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2020 (with December 31, 2020
referred to herein as the “Tranche Two End Date”).
With respect to 666,667 EVUs (the “Tranche Three EVUs”), the Applicable
Measurement Period shall be January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2021 (with
December 31, 2021 referred to herein as the “Tranche Three End Date”).
The Tranche One End Date, Tranche Two End Date and Tranche Three End Date are
collectively referred to as the “Applicable End Dates”, or, individually each as an
“Applicable End Date”.
Except as described below in the case of certain terminations from employment (as
described under “Termination of Employment”), Executive must remain employed by
the Issuer or its Affiliates (as defined under the Partnership Agreement) through the
Tranche One End Date to receive each Applicable End Date Allocation.
Applicable
“Applicable Base Value” shall mean (i) $61.00 with respect to the Tranche One EVUs
Base Value
(the “Tranche One Base Value”), (ii) $65.00 with respect to the Tranche Two EVUs
(the “Tranche Two Base Value”), and (iii) $69.00 with respect to the Tranche Three
EVUs (the “Tranche Three Base Value”).
-3-
Applicable
“Applicable Measurement Period Appreciation” means, with respect to the Tranche One
Measurement
EVUs, Tranche Two EVUs, and Tranche Three EVUs, as applicable, the excess, if any,
Period
of (A) the sum of (x) the volume-weighted average price of a Class A Unit of the Issuer
Appreciation
(“Applicable End Date VWAP”) over the sixty (60) business days preceding and sixty
(60) business days following the Applicable End Date, and (y) the aggregate cash
distributions, excluding distributions attributable to net incentive income from a fund
that is set forth on Exhibit A of the Employment Agreement (defined below) (“Pre-
Employment Funds”), made on a per-Partnership Unit basis in respect of the Applicable
Measurement Period (even if paid after the end of the Applicable Measurement Period),
over (B) the Applicable Base Value. For purposes of the preceding definition, with
respect to:
•
the Tranche One EVUs, (i) the Applicable End Date is the Tranche One End
Date, (ii) the Applicable Base Value is the Tranche One Base Value, and (iii) the
Applicable Measurement Period Appreciation is referred to as the “Tranche One
Measurement Period Appreciation”;
•
the Tranche Two EVUs, (i) the Applicable End Date is the Tranche Two End
Date, (ii) the Applicable Base Value is the Tranche Two Base Value, and (iii) the
Applicable Measurement Period Appreciation is referred to as the “Tranche Two
Measurement Period Appreciation;” and
•
the Tranche Three EVUs, (i) the Applicable End Date is the Tranche Three End
Date, (ii) the Applicable Base Value is the Tranche Three Base Value, and the
Applicable Measurement Period Appreciation is referred to as the “Tranche
Three Measurement Period Appreciation”.
-4-
For all purposes in this Agreement where an exclusion of net incentive income
attributable to Pre-Employment Funds is required for any calculation, such
exclusion shall be calculated by applying to each aggregate quarterly cash
distribution to the Partners, that distribution’s overall payout ratio (as a percentage
of the distributable earnings of the entities that control the general partners and
investment advisors of the investment funds and accounts managed by any Oaktree
Group Member in which the Issuer has a minority economic interest and indirect
control (such earnings, “DE” and such group, the “Oaktree Operating Group”)) to
the portion of DE representing net incentive income from Pre-Employment Funds.
Applicable
“Applicable End Date Allocation” means:
End Date
Allocation
(i) with respect to the Tranche One EVUs, (A) the product of (x) 666,666 and (y)
the Tranche One Measurement Period Appreciation, (B) reduced (w) first, by the
“Tranche One Pre-Employment Payments,” (x) second, by the “Tranche One
Excess Grant Distributions,” (y) third, by the “Vested Portion of the OCGH Grant
Value,” and (z) fourth, by the “Unvested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value” (as all
such terms are defined below);
(ii) with respect to the Tranche Two EVUs, (A) the product of (x) 666,667 and (y)
the Tranche Two Measurement Period Appreciation, (B) reduced (x) first, by the
“Tranche Two Pre-Employment Payments” and (y) second, by the “Tranche Two
Excess Grant Distributions” (as such terms are defined below); and
(iii) with respect to the Tranche Three EVUs, (A) the product of (x) 666,667 and
(y) the Tranche Three Measurement Period Appreciation, (B) reduced (x) first, by
the “Tranche Three Pre-Employment Payments” and (y) second, by the “Tranche
-5-
Three Excess Grant Distributions” (as such terms are defined below).
The above Applicable End Date Allocations are described in the EVU Designation.
If any of the above calculations in respect of the Tranche One EVUs or Tranche
Two EVUs result in an Applicable End Date Allocation that is a negative number,
then (i) any portion of the Pre-Employment Funds Profit Sharing Payments, any
portion of the Tranche One Excess Grant Distributions, any portion of the Tranche
Two Excess Grant Distributions, the Vested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value or
the Unvested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value that has not been applied to reduce
such Applicable End Date Allocation to zero shall reduce the subsequent
Applicable End Date Allocation (such amount in this clause (i), the “Allocation
Carry-forward”) and (ii) if any Unvested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value was
applied to reduce such Applicable End Date Allocation to zero (the “Applied
Unvested Value”), then the following percentage of those Partnership Units that are
subject to the 2017 OCGH Grant shall become immediately vested: the percentage
that the Applied Unvested Value represents of the OCGH Grant Value. The
Partnership Units that accelerate and vest pursuant to the immediately preceding
sentence (the “Accelerated Units”) shall reduce the number of Partnership Units
eligible to vest on each vesting date following the date of acceleration (each
“Remaining OCGH Partnership Unit Vesting Tranche”) by a number equal to the
quotient obtained by dividing the number of Accelerated Units by the number of
Remaining OCGH Partnership Unit Vesting Tranches. If any portion of the
-6-
Tranche One Excess Grant Distributions or Tranche Two Excess Grant
Distributions are not applied to reduce the Applicable End Date Allocation to, but
not below, zero, such portion shall also, without duplication, be available to reduce
the cash distributions paid or payable in respect of the EVUs under “Amount of
Cash Distributions in Respect of EVUs” section, below.
If, after the Applicable End Date Allocation for the Tranche Three EVUs, the above
calculation is a negative number, then no Applicable End Date Allocation will be
made with respect to such Tranche Three EVUs, and, for the avoidance of doubt,
Executive will not have any obligation to pay or deliver any amounts to the
Partnership, in cash or Partnership Units or any other form, equal to any negative
amount resulting from the preceding calculation.
“Pre-Employment Funds Profit Sharing Payments” means that portion of the
“Incentive Payments” (as defined in the Employment Agreement) that have been
paid to Executive pursuant to Section 4(a)(i) of the Employment Agreement that
are attributable to incentive income earned by Oaktree, including by the
“PoolCos” (as defined in the Employment Agreement) that is derived from Pre-
Employment Funds.
The “Tranche One Pre-Employment Payments” means that portion of the Pre-
Employment Funds Profit Sharing Payments that have been paid or are payable to
Executive with respect to the period ending on the Tranche One End Date.
-7-
The “Tranche Two Pre-Employment Payments” means that portion of the Pre-
Employment Funds Profit Sharing Payments that have been paid or are payable to
Executive with respect to the period beginning on January 1, 2020 and ending on
the Tranche Two End Date.
The “Tranche Three Pre-Employment Payments” means that portion of the Pre-
Employment Funds Profit Sharing Payments that have been paid or are payable to
Executive with respect to the period beginning on January 1, 2021 and ending on
March 31, 2022.
The “2017 OCGH Grant Distributions” means the distributions paid or payable to
Executive in respect of the 225,000 restricted Partnership Units granted by the
Partnership to Executive on April 26, 2017 pursuant to the Plan and the award
agreement relating to such grant (the “2017 OCGH Grant”).
The “Tranche One Excess Grant Distributions” means the excess of (i) the 2017
OCGH Grant Distributions paid or payable to Executive with respect to the period
beginning on the grant date of the 2017 OCGH Grant and ending on the Tranche
One End Date over (ii) any portion of such amount that has been applied to reduce
the cash distributions paid or payable in respect of the EVUs over the same period
under “Amount of Cash Distributions in Respect of EVUs,” down to, but not
below, zero.
-8-
The “Tranche Two Excess Grant Distributions” means the excess of (i) the 2017
OCGH Grant Distributions paid or payable to Executive with respect to the period
beginning on January 1, 2020 and ending on the Tranche Two End Date over (ii)
any portion of such amount that has been applied to reduce any cash distributions
paid or payable in respect of the EVUs over the same period under “Amount of
Cash Distributions in Respect of EVUs,” down to, but not below, zero.
The “Tranche Three Excess Grant Distributions” means the excess of (i) the 2017
OCGH Grant Distributions paid or payable to Executive with respect to the period
beginning on January 1, 2021 and ending on March 31, 2022 over (ii) any portion
of such amount that has been applied to reduce any cash distributions paid or
payable in respect of the EVUs over the same period under “Amount of Cash
Distributions in Respect of EVUs,” down to, but not below, zero.
The “OCGH Grant Value” means the product of 225,000 and the average daily
closing price of a Class A Unit of the Issuer over the twenty (20) trading-day period
preceding the grant date of the 2017 OCGH Grant.
-9-
The “Vested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value” shall mean the product of (i) the
OCGH Grant Value and (ii) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of
vesting dates in respect of such Partnership Units that have occurred prior to the
applicable date of reference in this Agreement and the denominator of which is ten
(10); provided, that, if an accelerated vesting event has occurred in respect of the
2017 OCGH Grant as of the applicable date of reference herein, then the numerator
shall be ten (10).
The “Unvested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value” shall mean, as of the applicable
date of reference, the excess of the OCGH Grant Value over the Vested Portion of
the OCGH Grant Value.
Method of
The number of Partnership Units into which the EVUs shall be recapitalized as
Calculating
described under “Recapitalization” below shall be determined by dividing the
Number of
Applicable End Date Allocation for each of the Tranche One EVUs, the Tranche
Recapitalized
Two EVUs, and the Tranche Three EVUs (to the extent made pursuant to the terms
Units
of the EVU Designation) by the Applicable End Date VWAP for each such tranche.
-10-
Applicable
The Applicable Recapitalization Date for the Applicable End Date Allocation for each
Recapitalization
of the Tranche One EVUs, the Tranche Two EVUs, and the Tranche Three EVUs,
Date
shall be promptly, but no later than fifteen (15) calendar days, following the
calculation of the Applicable End Date Allocation for each such tranche. The
Applicable Recapitalization Date for any other allocation in respect of the EVUs shall
be as set forth in this Agreement and the EVU Designation.
Certain Cash
With respect to the period between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2021 (such period,
Distributions
the “Full EVU Opportunity Period”), Executive will have the right to receive cash
distributions in respect of his EVUs only under the following circumstances:
• Cash distributions are measured and paid quarterly for each Fiscal Year from
2016 through 2021 in respect of any EVUs held by Executive during such
fiscal years.
• Executive must be employed on January 1 of each of the Fiscal Years
2016-2019 to receive the cash distributions earned in respect of each
completed calendar quarter for such Fiscal Year and the immediately
preceding Fiscal Year in the case of fourth quarter distributions as described
below, and Executive must be employed through December 31, 2019 to
receive the cash distributions earned in respect of Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021.
If Executive’s employment terminates during any Fiscal Year preceding the
2020 Fiscal Year, Executive will be entitled to receive cash distributions in
-11-
respect of any calendar quarters that ended prior to such termination and
a pro-rated portion of any distributions for the quarter of termination
based on the number of days during the quarter of termination during
which Executive was employed. If Executive’s employment terminates
on or after December 31, 2019, he shall remain eligible to receive cash
distributions in respect of the 2020 and 2021 Fiscal Years and in respect
of the final calendar quarter of the 2019 Fiscal Year.
Amount of
The amount of cash distributions for each Fiscal Year, shall be calculated as follows:
Cash
Distributions
in Respect of
EVUs
• Annual Hurdle: For each of the 2015 – 2020 Fiscal Years (each such
annual year, a “Performance Period”), Executive’s EVUs have been
assigned a hurdle (each, an “Annual Hurdle”). The Annual Hurdle for
(i) each of the 2015 through 2018 Performance Periods have been set by
the Board of Directors of the Issuer (the “Board”) on or prior to the
Grant Date and (ii) for the 2019 and 2020 Performance Periods have
been set by the Board on the date of the First A&R Grant Agreement.
• Reference Partnership Units. On or about the time of the completion of
the preparation of the Issuer’s annual financial statements relating to a
given Performance Period, if the Annual Hurdle for the preceding
Performance Period has been met, Executive will be entitled to receive
-12-
special cash distributions in respect of the EVUs in the immediately
subsequent Performance Period as determined by using the
computational approach below. The following steps will be used to
determine whether the applicable Annual Hurdle has been met and the
amount of the distributions Executive will be entitled to receive as
distributions with respect to Executive’s EVUs:
Step 1 – VWAP: Determine the volume-weighted average price
of a Class A Unit of the Issuer over the sixty (60) business days
preceding and the sixty (60) business days following the last day
of the relevant Performance Period (the “EOY VWAP”).
Step 2 – Annual Distributions. Determine the aggregate
distributions made to the Partnership Unit holders relating to
such Performance Period on a per- Partnership Unit basis, but
excluding cash distributions attributable to net incentive income
from Pre-Employment Funds (“Performance Period
Distributions”).
Step 3 – Cumulative Distributions. For each of the 2016 through
2020 Performance Periods, determine the aggregate distributions
made to the Partnership Unit holders relating to all preceding
Performance Periods on a per- Partnership Unit basis, but
excluding cash distributions attributable to net incentive income
from Pre-Employment Funds (the “Aggregate Distributions”).
-13-
Step 4 – Annual Hurdle Met? If the sum of such EOY VWAP
and Aggregate Distributions (or, for the calculation relating to
the 2015 Performance Period, the Performance Period
Distributions) is greater than the Annual Hurdle for such
immediately preceding Performance Period, the Annual Hurdle
is met.
If the Annual Hurdle is met, Executive will be eligible to
receive cash distributions paid relating to the
immediately succeeding Performance Period, if any, in
respect of the Reference Partnership Units, as calculated
in Step 5 below.
If the Annual Hurdle is not met, Executive will not be
eligible to receive any cash distributions in respect of
Executive’s EVUs relating to such immediately
succeeding Performance Period, but Executive will
remain eligible to receive cash distributions paid in
respect of Executive’s EVUs for subsequent Performance
Periods if the Annual Hurdle is met for such period(s).
-14-
Step 5 – Determine Annual Hurdle Attainment for Purposes of
Calculating Reference Partnership Units Below. The amount by
which the Annual Hurdle has been exceeded (the “Annual
Hurdle Attainment”) for any Performance Period is the excess of
(x) the sum of the EOY VWAP calculated above for such
Performance Period, plus the Aggregate Distributions calculated
above for such Performance Period, over (y) the Annual Hurdle
for such Performance Period.
Step 6 – Applicable Reference Partnership Units. For purposes
of calculating the number of notional Partnership Units (the
“Reference Partnership Units”) to determine the distributions
with respect to EVUs for any Performance Period, the number of
“applicable” EVUs shall be determined applying the following
“Vesting Schedule.”
If Executive is employed
Applicable EVU
through December 31, of
percentage (or vested
the applicable year below:
EVUs) will be
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
-15-
Step 7 – Reference Partnership Units: A number of notional
units determined by dividing (x) the product of (i) the Annual
Hurdle Attainment for the relevant Performance Period
multiplied by (ii) the number of “applicable” EVUs for such
Performance Period by (y) the EOY VWAP for such
Performance Period.
Example: After the first Performance Period, the number
of “applicable” EVUs is 400,000 (20% X 2,000,000). If,
following that first Performance Period, the Annual
Hurdle Attainment is 3 and EOY VWAP is 60, the
number of Reference Partnership Units is 20,000 (= (3 X
400,000) / 60).
• The number of Reference Partnership Units will be recalculated at the
end of each Performance Period and will not give Executive any rights
whatsoever other than the sole right to receive cash distributions in
respect of the EVUs as described in this Agreement.
•
It is agreed and understood that distributions with respect to a particular
quarter will be made in the subsequent quarter, such that the distribution
with respect to the fourth quarter of any year is expected to be made in
the first quarter of the following year, and the distribution made in the
first quarter of a year does not relate to that year, but rather the prior
year.
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Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, all cash distributions
to which Executive becomes entitled in respect of the EVUs pursuant to the
calculations set forth above shall be reduced, dollar-for-dollar, by any 2017 OCGH
Grant Distributions Executive has received prior to the date of payment of any
EVU distributions, without duplication in the event that any such 2017 OCGH
Grant Distributions have previously been applied to reduce any Applicable End
Date Allocation, D/D Acceleration Event Allocation or D/D End Date Allocation
to, but not below, zero.
It is the understanding of the parties to this Agreement that the Partnership does not
expect to make any non-cash quarterly distributions to holders of OCGH Units in
respect of the Full EVU Opportunity Period. If any non-cash distributions are
made, however, the fair market value of any such non-cash distributions will be
determined, and such value will be counted as a “cash distribution” for purposes of
calculating the Applicable Measurement Period Appreciation, the D/D
Appreciation, the Acceleration Event Appreciation, and, for the avoidance of
doubt, Performance Period Distributions and Aggregate Distributions.
No Claw-back Any cash distributions paid to Executive in respect of his EVUs as described above
shall not be subject to subsequent readjustment, recall or claw back for any reason,
including based on any recalculation of any of the items set forth above, except as
otherwise required by applicable law.
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Termination of
If Executive’s employment terminates for any reason prior to the Applicable End
Employment
Date Allocation for either of the Tranche One EVUs or the Tranche One Re-load
EVUs, then any calculation of any subsequent Applicable End Date Allocation
required under this Agreement shall apply a reduction for (i) all Pre-Employment
Fund Profit Sharing Payments paid or payable with respect to all periods prior to
such termination (rather than applying a reduction for the Tranche One Pre-
Employment Payments, the Tranche Two Pre-Employment Payments or the
Tranche Three Pre-Employment Payments described in the “Applicable End Date
Allocation” section, above); (ii) all “Excess OCGH Grant Distributions” paid or
payable with respect to all periods prior to such termination (rather than applying a
reduction for the Tranche One Excess Grant Distributions and the Tranche Two
Excess Grant Distributions described in the “Applicable End Date Allocation”
section, above); and (iii) only the Vested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value as of
the applicable date of termination (and not any Unvested Portion of the OCGH
Grant Value as described in the “Applicable End Date Allocation” section, above).
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“Excess OCGH Grant Distributions” means an amount equal to the excess of (i)
the 2017 OCGH Grant Distributions paid or payable to Executive with respect to
the period ending on the date of termination, death, disability, or the “Reload
Acceleration Allocation Date” (defined below), as applicable, over (ii) any portion
of such amount that has been applied to reduce the cash distributions paid or
payable in respect of the EVUs over the same period under “Amount of Cash
Distributions in Respect of EVUs,” down to, but not below, zero.
Subject to the immediately preceding paragraphs, if Executive’s employment
terminates prior to December 31, 2021, the impact on Executive’s EVUs shall be
as follows:
Death or Disability:
• Vesting. Executive will be vested in a number of EVUs equal to (i) a
number of Tranche One EVUs equal to 666,666 multiplied by the D/D
Fraction (the “Tranche One D/D Vested EVUs”), (ii) a number of
Tranche Two EVUs equal to 666,667 multiplied by the D/D Fraction
(the “Tranche Two D/D Vested EVUs”), and (iii) a number of Tranche
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Three EVUs equal to 666,667 multiplied by the D/D Fraction (the
“Tranche Three D/D Vested EVUs” and, collectively with the Tranche
One D/D Vested EVUs and the Tranche Two D/D Vested EVUs, the “D/
D Vested EVUs”). For purposes of the preceding sentence, the “D/D
Fraction” is a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of calendar
months (full or partial) during which Executive was employed on or
after January 1, 2015 through the date of death or disability, and the
denominator of which is sixty (60), but such fraction shall never be
greater than one. The remaining EVUs shall be immediately forfeited
upon the date of such death or disability. For the avoidance of doubt, if
Executive remains employed through December 31, 2019, the EVUs
shall be fully vested.
• Recapitalization. Fifty percent (50%) of each tranche of the D/D Vested
EVUs that are outstanding on the date of termination shall be
recapitalized (as described below) promptly following Executive’s death
or disability (the “D/D Measurement EVUs”), but subject to the General
Partner’s determination that there will be sufficient Adjusted Net Profits
(or gross items of income and realized gain) for the applicable period,
which may occur after the end of the calendar year in which the death or
disability occurs. The remaining 50% of each such tranche of the D/D
Vested EVUs that are outstanding on the date of termination (the “D/D
End Date Measurement EVUs”) shall not be immediately recapitalized.
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The allocations in respect of these D/D Vested EVUs shall be calculated
as follows:
• The allocation (the “D/D Acceleration Event Allocation”) in respect of
the D/D Measurement EVUs shall equal (i) the product of (A) the D/D
Appreciation (defined below) and (B) the number of D/D Measurement
EVUs, reduced by (ii) if the death or disability occurs before January 1,
2020, the sum of (A) all Pre-Employment Funds Profit Sharing
Payments paid or payable with respect to the period preceding the date
of death or disability, (B) all Excess OCGH Grant Distributions, and (C)
the Vested Portion of the OCGH Grant Value as of the date of death or
disability, or (iii) if the death or disability occurs on or after January 1,
2020, the sum of (A) any Allocation Carry-forward, (B) all Pre-
Employment Fund Profit Sharing Payments paid or payable with respect
to the period since the period covered by the immediately preceding
Applicable End Date Allocation and (c) all Excess OCGH Grant
Distributions that have not previously been applied to reduce an
Applicable End Date Allocation to, but not below, zero. The number of
Partnership Units to be delivered to Executive in connection with the
recapitalization of the EVUs following the D/D Acceleration Event
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Allocation shall be determined by dividing the D/D Acceleration Event
Allocation by the volume weighted average price of a Class A Unit of
the Issuer over the ten (10) business day period preceding and the ten
(10) business day period following the date of death or disability (the
“D/D VWAP”), and the recapitalization shall in all other respects occur
in accordance with “Recapitalization” below. If the above calculation
results in a D/D Acceleration Event Allocation that is a negative
number, then any portion of the Allocation Carry-forward, Pre-
Employment Funds Profit Sharing Payments, the Vested Portion of the
OCGH Grant Value or Excess OCGH Grant Distributions that have not
been applied to reduce such D/D Acceleration Event Allocation to zero
shall reduce the subsequent D/D End Date Allocations (defined below).
• The allocations in respect of the D/D End Date Measurement EVUs
(the “D/D End Date Allocations”) shall be made on the date of the
Applicable End Date Allocation for each of the corresponding tranches
of EVUs, and shall be calculated by (i) replacing each of the figures
(i.e., 666,666 or 666,667) therein with a number equal to 50% of the
Tranche One D/D Vested EVUs, the Tranche Two D/D Vested EVUs,
and the Tranche Three D/D Vested EVUs, respectively, and (ii) if the
death or disability occurs before January 1, 2020, by applying no
reduction except for the negative carry forward described in the last
sentence of the immediately preceding paragraph and (iii) if the death or
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disability occurs after January 1, 2020, by applying reductions for (i) the
negative carry forward described in the last sentence of the immediately
preceding paragraph and (ii) the 2017 OCGH Grant Distributions paid
or payable since the more recent of (x) the death or disability and (y) the
preceding D/D End Date Allocation and through the Tranche Two End
Date or Tranche Three End Date, as applicable. The number of
Partnership Units to be delivered shall be determined consistent with the
“Method of Calculating Number of Recapitalized Units” and
“Applicable Recapitalization Date” sections, above.
• D/D Appreciation: The excess of (A) the sum of (x) the D/D VWAP
plus (y) the aggregate cash distributions made since January 1, 2015 on
a per-Partnership Unit basis, excluding distributions attributable to net
incentive income from Pre-Employment Funds, that occurred prior the
date of death or disability over (B) the accreted base value through the
date of death or disability.
Discharge without Cause or Resignation for Good Reason:
• Vesting. Executive will be vested in a number of EVUs equal to the
sum (which shall not exceed 2,000,000) of (A) the number of EVUs that
have vested prior to the Fiscal Year in which Executive’s termination of
employment occurs (based on the Vesting Schedule above), plus, (B) the
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product of 400,000 EVUs multiplied by, a fraction, the numerator of
which is the number of days in the Fiscal Year during which Executive
was employed hereunder, and the denominator of which is 365, plus
(C) 800,000 EVUs (such computed amount, the “Qualifying
Termination EVUs”). All EVUs that do not vest in accordance with the
above formula shall be immediately forfeited upon such termination.
For the avoidance of doubt, if Executive remains employed through
December 31, 2019, the EVUs shall be fully vested, and all such EVUs
shall be Qualifying Termination EVUs.
• Recapitalization. All Qualifying Termination EVUs shall be deemed
equally allocated among all or any of the Tranche One EVUs, Tranche
Two EVUs, and Tranche Three EVUs that have not yet been
recapitalized. Subject to the first two paragraphs of this “Termination”
section, the Applicable End Date Allocation for each such tranche shall
be calculated based on, and shall be allocated on the same Applicable
Recapitalization Date as is applicable to, the Applicable End Date
Allocation for such tranche in accordance with the “Method of
Calculating Number of Recapitalized Units” and “Applicable
Recapitalization Date” sections above.
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• Change in Control Termination. If the above termination occurs within
one (1) year following a Change in Control, then Executive shall
immediately vest in a number of EVUs as set forth below (the “CIC
EVUs”). Any EVUs that do not vest in accordance with the formula
below shall be immediately forfeited upon such termination. For the
avoidance of doubt, if Executive remains employed through December
31, 2019, the EVUs shall be fully vested, and all such EVUs shall be
“CIC EVUs.”
Termination Date
CIC EVUs
Before 2016
In 2016
In 2017 – 2019
1,200,000
1,600,000
2,000,000
All CIC EVUs shall be deemed equally allocated among all or any of
the Tranche One EVUs, Tranche Two EVUs, and Tranche Three EVUs
that have not yet been recapitalized. Subject to the first two paragraphs
of this “Termination” section, the Applicable End Date Allocation for
each such tranche shall be calculated based on, and shall be allocated on
the same Applicable Recapitalization Date as is applicable to, the
Applicable End Date Allocation for such tranche in accordance with the
“Method of Calculating Number of Recapitalized Units” and
“Applicable Recapitalization Date” sections above.
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Resignation Without Good Reason:
• Vesting. The number of EVUs that are vested through the end of the
Fiscal Year immediately preceding the date of resignation (applying the
Vesting Schedule above) shall be vested, and all other EVUs will be
immediately forfeited upon such resignation. For the avoidance of
doubt, if Executive remains employed through December 31, 2019, the
EVUs shall be fully vested.
• Recapitalization. The number of EVUs that are vested in accordance
with the preceding paragraph shall be deemed equally allocated among
all or any of the Tranche One EVUs, Tranche Two EVUs, and Tranche
Three EVUs that have not yet been recapitalized. Subject to the first
two paragraphs of this “Termination” section, the Applicable End Date
Allocation for each such tranche shall be calculated based on, and shall
be allocated on the same Applicable Recapitalization Date as is
applicable to, the Applicable End Date Allocation for such tranche in
accordance with the “Method of Calculating Number of Recapitalized
Units” and “Applicable Recapitalization Date” sections above.
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Discharge for Cause:
• Vesting. If a termination for Cause occurs on or prior to December 31,
2019, then all EVUs shall be immediately forfeited upon such
termination, for no consideration. All EVUs that are forfeited under this
section shall, upon such forfeiture be immediately and automatically
cancelled without any further action by Executive or any member of the
Oaktree Group and cease thereafter to be outstanding. If Executive
remains employed through December 31, 2019, the EVUs shall be fully
vested.
• Recapitalization. The number of EVUs that are vested upon
Executive’s remaining employed through December 31, 2019 shall be
deemed equally allocated among all or any of the Tranche One EVUs,
Tranche Two EVUs, and Tranche Three EVUs that have not yet been
recapitalized. Subject to the first two paragraphs of this “Termination”
section, the Applicable End Date Allocation for each such tranche shall
be calculated based on, and shall be allocated on the same Applicable
Recapitalization Date as is applicable to, the Applicable End Date
Allocation for such tranche in accordance with the “Method of
Calculating Number of Recapitalized Units” and “Applicable
Recapitalization Date” sections above.
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Full EVU
A “Full EVU Acceleration Event” shall occur if on or before December 31, 2019
Acceleration
either (a) Howard Marks or Bruce Karsh ceases to be an employee, director and
Event
officer of the Oaktree Group or (b) either Howard Marks or Bruce Karsh remains in
such positions but substantially reduces his role, for any reason other than death,
disability or a family medical issue (for example, the need to care for an immediate
family member who is seriously incapacitated for the long term); provided that, it is
understood that Howard Marks and Bruce Karsh may each reduce their days and
hours worked for the Oaktree Group, and that any such quantitative reduction in
time spent will not be considered such a cessation as long as, in his respective role
with the Oaktree Group, Howard Marks or Bruce Karsh continues to actually
perform functions and provide services substantially similar to the functions and
services he provided during the twelve (12) months prior to the Grant Date;
provided, that a Full EVU Acceleration Event will occur if either Howard Marks or
Bruce Karsh becomes an officer, director or employee of a competitor of the
Oaktree Group that is a multi-asset alternative investment manager with multiple
competing products.
No Full EVU Acceleration Event shall occur until Executive has provided notice of
Executive’s belief that Howard Marks or Bruce Karsh shall have ceased to perform
in such capacity and a thirty (30) day cure period has passed or the Board has
acknowledged in writing that a Full EVU Acceleration Event has occurred.
This Section “Full EVU Acceleration Event” and “Re-load” below shall cease to
apply after December 31, 2019.
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Re-load
Upon a Full EVU Acceleration Event, Executive’s EVUs shall be “reloaded,” and
the following shall occur:
• The entire initial EVU grant shall immediately fully vest.
• On the earlier of (I) notice by Executive that a Full EVU Acceleration
Event has occurred or (II) the public announcement by Oaktree, Bruce
Karsh or Howard Marks that a Full EVU Acceleration Event has
occurred (such earlier date, the “Reload Acceleration Allocation Date”),
the allocation (the “Reload Acceleration Event Allocation”) with respect
to Executive’s EVUs, but subject to the General Partner’s determination
that there will be sufficient Adjusted Net Profits (or gross items of
income and realized gain) for the applicable period, which may occur
after the end of the calendar year in which the Full EVU Acceleration
Event occurs. Immediately following the Reload Acceleration Event
Allocation, the EVUs shall be recapitalized in accordance with
“Recapitalization” below (the “Reload Acceleration Event
Recapitalization”).
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• Executive will receive a Re-Load EVU Award, which award shall have
the terms described below.
2,000,000 new equity value units (the “Re-load EVUs”),
The vesting period for purposes of cash distributions and
calculating the vesting impact of certain terminations or
resignations from employment, shall be ratable for each remaining
full or partial fiscal year from January 1, 2015 through December
31, 2020. (So, by way of example, for a Full EVU Acceleration
Event occurring in 2017, the Re-load EVU Award shall vest 25%
on December 31 of each of 2017 through 2020.)
For purposes of calculating annual cash distributions due in respect
of the Re-load EVU Award, the first Performance Period shall be
the remaining portion of the year in which the Full EVU
Acceleration Event occurred and each of the remaining full Fiscal
Years through and
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including 2020 shall be a Performance Period.
The Applicable Measurement Period for purposes of calculating the
Applicable End Date Allocation in respect of the Re-load EVU
Award shall be as follows: (i) with respect to 666,666 of the Re-
load EVUs (the “Tranche One Re-load EVUs”), the Applicable
Measurement Period shall be January 1, 2015 through
December 31, 2020, (ii) with respect to another 666,667 of the Re-
load EVUs, (the “Tranche Two Re-load EVUs”), the Applicable
Measurement Period shall be January 1, 2015 through
December 31, 2021, and (iii) with respect to the remaining 666,666
of the Re-load EVUs, (the “Tranche Three Re-load EVUs”), the
Applicable Measurement Period shall be January 1, 2015 through
December 31, 2022.
The Applicable Base Value for each tranche of Re-load EVUs shall
be the sum of (A) the volume-weighted average price of a Class A
Unit of the Issuer over the fifteen (15) business days following the
Full EVU Acceleration Event, plus (B) the portion of the
Applicable Base Value for each corresponding tranche of EVUs
(e.g., for the Tranche One Re-load EVUs, the Applicable Base
Value for the Tranche One EVUs) that represents the estimate of
projected cash distributions over the Applicable Measurement
Period for such tranche (as disclosed to Executive prior to the Grant
Date), on a per-Partnership Unit basis, reduced by cash
distributions attributable to net incentive income from Pre-
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Employment Funds, that has not accreted as of the Full EVU
Acceleration Event (the “Original Projected Distribution Value”) at
the time of the Full EVU Acceleration Event, plus (C) 20% of the
Original Projected Distribution Value.
All other terms and conditions as applied to the EVU Award (with
applicable adjustments on any periodic measurements).
Following the Reload Acceleration Event Recapitalization, Executive shall have no
further rights in respect of the accelerated EVUs, subject to the terms set forth in
the EVU Designation and “Recapitalization” below.
The Reload Acceleration Event Allocation shall equal (A) the product of (i)
2,000,000 and (ii) the Acceleration Event Appreciation (defined below), reduced by
(B) the sum of (i) all Pre-Employment Funds Profit Sharing Payments paid or
payable with respect to the period prior to the Reload Acceleration Allocation Date,
(ii) the OCGH Grant Value, and (iii) the Excess OCGH Grant Distributions with
respect to the period prior to the Reload Acceleration Allocation Date.
Acceleration Event Appreciation. The excess of (A) the sum of (x) the volume-
weighted average price of a Class A Unit of the Issuer over the fifteen (15) business
days preceding the Reload Acceleration Allocation Date (the “Acceleration Event
VWAP”) plus (y) the aggregate cash distributions made to Partnership Unit holders
from January 1, 2015 through the Acceleration Recapitalization Date, on a per-
Partnership Unit basis, excluding distributions attributable to net incentive income
from Pre-Employment Funds over (B) the accreted base value through the
Acceleration Recapitalization Date.
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Change in
In general, EVUs should receive the same form of consideration in any Change in
Control
Control as is received by holders of Partnership Units, and the Adjustments section
below shall apply. Executive and the Partnership have acknowledged that
Executive is joining the Oaktree Group because of the opportunity to augment the
Oaktree Group’s profitability and growth over a full seven-year period and thereby
Executive’s potential to earn substantial incentive income for such period. If a
Change in Control occurs before December 31, 2021, the Partnership will, and
Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. and the Issuer have agreed to, make every effort
to preserve, in respect of any EVUs then held by the Executive, that potential for
incentive-based income in the new circumstances comparable, in amount and
attainability, as originally contemplated at the time Executive commenced
employment. If, as a result of the Change in Control, it is not practical for the
Oaktree Group to preserve such incentive-based income opportunity (e.g., the
Oaktree Group is merged into another company and it is no longer practical to track
Applicable Measurement Period Appreciation) in a way that makes it possible to
attain the originally intended result in terms of Executive’s compensation, the
Oaktree Group has agreed to award Executive compensation, which may include a
guaranteed payment, that makes up for the truncation of his incentive-based
income potential. Any such judgmental adjustment should reflect the value
Executive has added to the Oaktree Group, the total amount of incentive income or
compensation Executive has earned through the completion of the Change in
Control transaction, and the portion of the Term (as defined in the Employment
Agreement) elapsed.
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“Change in Control” means the occurrence of any of the following events: (i) the
sale or disposition, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially
all, of the assets of the Issuer to any “person” or “group” (as such terms are defined
in Sections 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) other than
any employee benefit plan (or trust forming a part thereof) maintained by (A) the
Oaktree Group or (B) any corporation or other Person of which a majority of the
voting power of its voting equity securities or equity interests is owned, directly or
indirectly, by the Issuer, or (C) the Partnership or any of its affiliates (“Permitted
Holders”); (ii) any person or group, other than the Permitted Holders, is or becomes
the Beneficial Owner (except that a person shall be deemed to have “beneficial
ownership” of all units and equity interests that any such person has the right to
acquire, whether such right is exercisable immediately or only after the passage of
time), directly or indirectly, of more than 50% of the total voting power of the
voting stock of the Issuer (or any entity which controls the Issuer), including by
way of merger, consolidation, tender or exchange offer or otherwise; or (iii) a
reorganization, recapitalization, merger or consolidation (each, a “Corporate
Transaction”) involving the Issuer, unless after such Corporate Transaction the
General Partner of the Partnership or an Affiliate thereof has the ability, directly or
indirectly, to appoint a majority of the directors of the Issuer (whether by vote,
pursuant to appointment rights in the Issuer Operating Agreement or otherwise).
“Beneficial Owner” of a security is a Person who directly or indirectly, through any
contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise has: (x) voting
power, which includes the power to vote, or to direct the voting of, such security
and/or (y) investment power, which includes the power to dispose, or to direct the
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disposition of, such security.
Adjustments
If any equity distribution, recapitalization, division of Partnership Units, Class A
Units of the Issuer or any class or series of units or other ownership interests issued
by any member of the Oaktree Group (collectively, “Oaktree Units”), Unit split,
reverse unit split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, split-off,
combination, repurchase or exchange of Oaktree Units or other securities of the
Issuer or an Affiliate, as applicable, issuance of warrants or other rights to acquire
Oaktree Units or other securities of the Issuer or an Affiliate, as applicable, or other
similar corporate transaction or event (including, without limitation, a Change in
Control) that affects the Oaktree Units, then the Board and the General Partner shall
make any such adjustments to the EVUs in such manner as is equitable.
Recapitalization Upon completion of the applicable Target Allocation (defined below) with respect
to the EVUs, the EVUs that receive the Target Allocation, to the extent of such
Target Allocation, shall automatically be recapitalized into Partnership Units (any
such Partnership Units received in such recapitalization, the “Recapitalized Units”)
in accordance with the formulas under “Method of Calculating the Number of
Recapitalized Units”, “Termination of Employment” or “Re-load”, as applicable.
The Recapitalization shall occur automatically on the date immediately after the
applicable Target Allocation has been made, as described under “Partnership
Allocations” in the EVU Designation, to the extent of such allocation, and
Executive shall thereafter hold a number of Partnership Units that have been
recapitalized, determined in accordance with “Method of Calculating the Number
of Recapitalized Units”, “Termination of Employment”, or “Re-load” described
above.
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To the extent that there is an EVU Allocation Shortfall (as defined in the EVU
Designation) in respect of any Target Allocation, immediately following any
subsequent Make-up Allocation of Adjusted Net Profits under “Partnership
Allocations - Target Allocations” as set forth in the EVU Designation, a further
recapitalization shall occur in a manner consistent with this Section.
Upon a recapitalization, the interests in the Opcos (defined below), that correspond
to the EVUs shall similarly be recapitalized, and the Partnership, the Opcos and the
Issuer shall take all actions necessary to maintain a one-to-one correspondence
between the Recapitalized Units and the recapitalized Opco Units.
“Target Allocation” means, as applicable, the Applicable End Date Allocation (as
determined hereunder), the D/D End Date Allocation, the D/D Acceleration Event
Allocation, or the Reload Acceleration Event Allocation.
“Target Allocation Maturity Fiscal Year” means any Fiscal Year in which a Target
Allocation is due to Executive hereunder.
Liquidity
Rights
(a) Subject to paragraph (b) of this Section (Liquidity Rights),
Executive shall, during the period beginning on the date that is one (1)
calendar day after the determination of each of the Applicable End Date
VWAP, D/D VWAP or Acceleration Event VWAP, as applicable, and ending
fifteen (15) calendar days later, have the right (the “Put Right”) to require
the Partnership to purchase for cash a number of Executive’s Recapitalized
Units (rounded up by one Recapitalized Unit, as necessary) equal to (i) the
Tax Amount divided by (ii) Applicable End Date VWAP, the D/D VWAP or
the Acceleration Event VWAP, as applicable to the relevant
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Target Allocation (such amount, the “Tax Amount”); provided, however,
that Executive shall not be permitted to put to the Partnership a number of
Recapitalized Units attributable to more than 50% of the applicable
tranche(s) of EVUs that are recapitalized on any such date.
(b) The Partnership will permit Executive to net cash settle a portion
of the EVUs (but in any event no more than 50% of the applicable
tranche(s) of EVUs that are recapitalized on any such date) in an amount
equal to the Tax Amount to the extent that the Financial Accounting
Standards Board adopts an accounting standard that will permit such a
settlement without causing liability accounting or other similar accounting
deemed unfavorable by the Partnership under generally accepted accounting
principles in the U.S. If the provisions of this paragraph (b) are triggered,
the provisions of paragraph (a) shall cease to be applicable, and Executive
shall not have a Put Right for a relevant Fiscal Year in which this paragraph
(b) applies.
“Tax Amount” means with respect to a Target Allocation for a Fiscal Year, the sum
of:
(x) the product of (i) the net amount of Executive’s Target Allocation for
such Fiscal Year that consists of ordinary income, ordinary gain, ordinary
deduction or ordinary loss items as determined for U.S. federal income tax
purposes and (ii) the highest effective marginal combined U.S. federal,
state and local income tax rate applicable to ordinary income, long-term
capital gains, or short-term capital gains, as applicable, prescribed for an
individual resident in Los Angeles, California for such Fiscal Year (the
“Effective Rate”), plus
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(y) the product of (i) the Short-Term Capital Gains (defined below), if any,
and (ii) the Effective Rate, plus
(z) the product of (i) the Long-Term Capital Gains (defined below), if any
and (ii) the Effective Rate.
In any notice exercising a Put Right, Executive shall provide Oaktree with a
schedule showing his available capital loss carryforwards to and realized capital
losses in any relevant Fiscal Year in which a Target Allocation occurs (such capital
loss carryfowards and realized capital losses, the “Available Capital Losses”), and,
if Oaktree requests, reasonable supporting detail. Executive shall represent to
Oaktree that the schedule is true and correct as of the date it is delivered. Using the
information in the schedule and the items included in (or projected to be included
in) the Target Allocation, Oaktree shall determine the amount (if any) of net long-
term capital gains (the “Long-Term Capital Gains”) and the amount (if any) of net
short-term capital gains (the “Short-Term Capital Gains”) on which Executive
would be required to pay tax as a result of the Target Allocation, in each case, after
taking into account the Available Capital Losses. For the avoidance of doubt, the
parties intend that Executive use all Available Capital Losses to reduce or eliminate
taxes payable on capital gain allocated in respect of the Target Allocation and the
parties shall interpret the forgoing provisions accordingly.
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Restricted
The “Restricted Period” (as defined in the Partnership Agreement) with respect to
Period
the EVUs shall be one year.
Oaktree
Each Opco has issued to the Partnership back-to-back partnerships units (“Opco
Operating
B2B Units”), corresponding with and tracking, on a one-to-one basis (including
Group
with respect to the economic terms and entitlements to distributions and
allocations), the EVUs issued by the Partnership. In furtherance of the foregoing,
the Partnership shall have authority in respect of each Opco to maintain such one-
to-one ratio of the EVUs and the Opco B2B Units. The General Partner shall, and
shall cause the Partnership to, replicate all applicable actions taken at the level of
the Partnership at the level of the Opcos, and shall cause the Opcos to take all
necessary actions or make other adjustments at the level of the Opcos (including
any recapitalizations, splits or reverse splits, distributions made with respect to the
Opco B2B Units, and allocations in respect of the B2B Units), in each case so that
the Opco B2B Units continue to have the economic rights and entitlements that
mirror the rights of the EVUs hereunder. The General Partner shall, and shall cause
the Partnership to, cause each Opco to distribute and allocate to the Partnership in
respect of the Opco B2B Units amounts required to be distributed and allocated by
the Partnership to Executive hereunder in respect of the EVUs. Each Opco shall do
so in a manner reasonably determined by the General Partner and the general
partner of each Opco, but generally shall make distributions and allocations pro rata
based on the fair market value of each Opco as compared to the fair market value
of all Opcos.
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“Opco” means any entity in which the Partnership owns an equity interest and is
designated by the General Partner of the Partnership as an Opco. Until such time
as the General Partner of the Partnership designates otherwise, the Opcos shall
consist of (i) Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., (ii) Oaktree Capital I, L.P., (iii)
Oaktree Capital II, L.P., (iv) Oaktree Capital Management (Cayman), L.P., (v)
Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P. and (vi) Oaktree Investment Holdings, L.P.
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3.
Section 83(b) Election. It is intended that the Granted Units constitute Profits
Interests (defined below), and the parties shall treat them as such. Executive has made an election under
Section 83(b) of the Code within thirty (30) days of the receipt of such Granted Units and agrees to
make a protective election under Section 83(b) of the Code within thirty (30) days after the date of this
Agreement. “Profits Interest” means an interest in the profits of the Partnership satisfying the
requirements for a partnership interest transferred in connection with the performance of services, as
set forth in IRS Revenue Procedure 93-27, 19932 C.B. 343 (June 6, 1993) and IRS Revenue Procedure
2001-43, 2001-2 C.B. 191 (Aug. 3, 2001), unless superseded by IRS Notice 2005-43, 2005-24 I.R.B.
1221 (May 20, 2005), in which case, as set forth in Proposed Treasury Regulations Section 1.83-3(l),
Notice 2005-43 and any similar or related authority.
4.
Certain Representations, Warranties, Covenants and Agreements. As an
essential inducement to the Partnership to grant and issue the Granted Units to Executive, and to enter
into this Agreement, Executive has represented and warranted, and hereby represents and warrants, to
the Oaktree Group as follows:
(a)
Authority and Capacity. Executive has the legal capacity to execute and deliver
each Grant Document and to perform all of his obligations thereunder. Executive has duly
executed and delivered this Agreement, and each Grant Document constitutes the legal, valid
and binding obligation of Executive, enforceable against Executive in accordance with their
respective terms.
(b)
No Conflict. Neither the execution and delivery by Executive of any Grant
Document, nor the performance by Executive of his obligations thereunder, violates, conflicts
with or constitutes a default or breach under, or will violate, conflict with or constitute a default
or breach under any applicable law or any contract, indenture, agreement, instrument or mortgage
binding on Executive or any of his properties.
(c)
Suitability. Executive meets all suitability standards or eligibility requirements
imposed by the jurisdiction of his residence for his acquisition of the Granted Units pursuant
to the Grant Documents. Executive has such knowledge and experience in financial and business
matters that he is capable of evaluating the merits and risks of an investment in the Granted
Units and protecting his own interests in connection with such investment.
(d)
Access to Information. Executive (i) has been provided with ample opportunity
to discuss each Grant Document, the Granted Units and the Oaktree Business (defined below)
with the General Partner and to ask the General Partner such questions regarding each Grant
Document, the Granted Units and the Oaktree Business, and to receive such answers to such
questions and such other information, as Executive deems necessary, appropriate or advisable,
and (ii) has been provided with ample opportunity to consult with such legal, tax, financial and
other advisors of Executive regarding each Grant Document, the Granted Units and the Oaktree
Business as Executive deems necessary, appropriate or advisable. Executive has a preexisting
personal or business relationship with certain senior executives of the Oaktree Group, is currently
a director of the Issuer, and such personal and business relationship is of a nature and duration
so as to enable Executive to be aware of their character, business acumen and general business
and financial circumstances.
(e)
Independent Investment Decision. Executive is relying on his own independent
investigation and the information contained in the Grant Documents, and Executive is not relying
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on any Person (other than his own legal, tax, financial and other advisors) or any representation
or warranty made by any Oaktree Related Person, in each case, in deciding to own and hold the
Granted Units. Without limiting the foregoing, no representation or warranty has been made
to Executive by any Oaktree Related Person as to the existing value or the future performance
of the Oaktree Business.
(f)
Investment Intent. Executive will own and hold the Granted Units for his own
account, as a principal, for investment purposes only, and not with a view to, or for, resale or
distribution, in whole or in part. No other Person has a direct or indirect beneficial interest in
the Granted Units (other than, if Executive is a married natural person acquiring the Granted
Units as community property, the community property interest of Executive’s spouse).
Executive is not acting as an agent, representative, intermediary or nominee, or in any similar
capacity, for or on behalf of any other Person with respect to any Granted Units.
(g)
Restricted Securities. Executive understands that the grant and issuance
hereunder of the Granted Units are intended to be exempt from registration under the U.S.
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), state securities laws and other
applicable foreign or domestic securities laws. Executive further understands that the Granted
Units have not been recommended or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission, any state securities commission or any other foreign or domestic governmental
authority. No Transfer of the Granted Units will be made by Executive. Executive further
understands that the Oaktree Group is under no obligation to ensure (i) that any Issuer Equity
will continue to be tradable on the New York Stock Exchange or any other national securities
exchange or market or trading platform or (ii) that other avenues of liquidity will be made
available to Executive with respect to the Granted Units. Executive is able and willing to bear,
and has the financial ability to bear, the economic and other risks of his ownership in the Granted
Units for an indefinite period of time.
(h)
Accredited Investor. Executive is an “accredited investor” within the meaning
of Rule 501 of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act. Without limiting the
foregoing, Executive is a natural person, who (i) has a net worth individually or jointly with his
spouse that exceeds $1,000,000 at the time of the grant and issuance of the Granted Units
(excluding the value of Executive’s primary residence and the related amount of indebtedness
secured by the primary residence up to the fair market value of the residence but including as
a liability any indebtedness secured by such residence in excess of the fair market value of such
residence) or (ii) had annual income in excess of $200,000 in each of the two most recent calendar
years (e.g., if the current calendar year is 2017, then in each of 2016 and 2015) and reasonably
expects to have income in excess of $200,000 in the current calendar year; or (iii) had annual
income jointly with his spouse in excess of $300,000 in each of the two most recent calendar
years (e.g., if the current calendar year is 2017, then in each of 2016 and 2015) and reasonably
expects to have joint income in excess of $300,000 in the current calendar year.
(i)
Tax Consequences. Executive understands that his ownership of the Granted
Units may cause him adverse tax consequences, including the realization of taxable income
without receiving cash distributions to pay the required tax thereon. Executive has reviewed
his investment in the Granted Units with his tax advisors and has not received or relied upon
any tax advice from any Oaktree Related Person. No Oaktree Related Person has made any
representation or warranty (and shall not otherwise be liable to Executive) as to the tax treatment
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of the granting of the Granted Units or vesting, allocations or distributions with respect to the
Granted Units, under applicable law.
(j)
Understanding of Grant Documents. Executive understands each provision of
each Grant Document and the terms and conditions of the Granted Units. Without limiting the
foregoing, Executive understands that:
(i)
Executive has irrevocably constituted and appointed each of the Partnership, the
General Partner, their respective authorized officers and attorneys-in-fact, and the members of
the General Partner with full power of substitution, as the true and lawful attorney-in-fact and
agent of Executive as set forth in Section 3.9 of the Partnership Agreement for the purposes set
forth therein;
(ii)
the Partnership Agreement permits the Partnership to issue, at any time and from
time to time, without the approval of Executive or the need to notify Executive, additional Units
on such terms and conditions as the General Partner may determine, including Units that may
be senior or superior to the Granted Units;
(iii)
Executive does not have any preemptive rights, right of first refusal, right of first
offer or other right of participation with respect to any such issuance, and such issuances are
expected to have a dilutive effect on Executive’s interest in the Partnership;
(iv)
amounts distributable to Executive in respect of the Granted Units are subject
to withholding pursuant to Section 7.8 of the Partnership Agreement; and
(v)
Subject to Section 6 hereof, Executive, as a Service Partner, is subject to the
restrictive covenants set forth in Article X of the Partnership Agreement, which includes
covenants and prohibitions to which Executive will continue to be bound after Executive ceases
to provide services to the Oaktree Group; provided, that if any provisions of Article X of the
Partnership Agreement conflict with Section 6 of the Employment Agreement, the Employment
Agreement shall control; provided, further that for purposes of Section 10.4(b) of the Partnership
Agreement a “Competitive Business” shall not include any business enterprise that is primarily
a commercial bank, an investment bank, an insurance company or a retail distribution business.
Executive has given careful consideration to all of the provisions of the Grant Documents. For
the avoidance of doubt, and without limiting the immediately preceding sentence, Executive
(x) has given careful consideration to the restraints imposed upon him under the Grant
Documents, including under Articles IV and X of the Partnership Agreement, (y) is in full accord
as to the necessity of such provisions, and (z) understand that his agreement to be bound by
each such provision is an essential inducement to the Partnership to grant and issue the Granted
Units to Executive.
If Executive becomes aware that any representation or warranty made by him in any Grant Document
would be incorrect in any material respect if such representation or warranty were to be made as of any
subsequent date, or that Executive is unable fulfill or perform in any material respect any of his covenants
or agreements in any Grant Document, Executive shall promptly notify the General Partner of such
inaccuracy or inability.
Incorporation of Partnership Agreement Provisions. The provisions of
Article XII of the Partnership Agreement (other than Sections 12.1 and 12.3 of the Partnership
5.
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Agreement) are hereby incorporated herein by reference and shall apply mutatis mutandis to this
Agreement. Without limiting the foregoing:
(a)
any and all disputes, claims or controversies arising out of or relating to this
Agreement shall be resolved pursuant to Section 9(h) of that certain Second Amended and
Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of April 26, 2017 (as the same may be further
amended and restated from time to time thereafter, the “Employment Agreement”) between
Executive, the Issuer and Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership
(“OCM”);
(b)
this Agreement may be amended, modified, or waived with the written consent
of the General Partner; provided that if any such amendment, modification, or waiver would
adversely affect Executive in any material respect, such amendment, modification, or waiver
shall also require the written consent of Executive. Moreover, the Partnership Agreement may
be amended, modified and waived pursuant to Section 12.5 of the Partnership Agreement, and
the Plan may be amended, modified and waived pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Plan; provided
that, if any such amendment, modification, or waiver would adversely affect the rights
attributable solely to the EVUs specifically granted to Executive under this Agreement and not
the rights of any other Limited Partner of the Partnership relative to all Limited Partners as a
class, such amendment, modification, or waiver shall also require the written consent of
Executive, not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned;
(c)
any notice that is required or permitted hereunder to be given to any party hereto
shall be given pursuant to Section 12.6 of the Partnership Agreement;
(d)
in accordance with Section 12.9 of the Partnership Agreement, this Agreement
shall be construed and enforced, along with any rights, remedies, or obligations provided for
hereunder, in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware applicable to contracts made
and to be performed entirely within the State of Delaware by residents of the State of Delaware;
and
(e)
in accordance with Section 12.12 of the Partnership Agreement, this Agreement
may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which shall constitute one and the same
instrument.
6.
Entire Agreement. The Grant Documents and the EVU Designation constitute
the entire agreement among the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersede
any prior agreement or understanding among them with respect to such matter, including without
limitation any term sheets or summaries relating to such matter, Section 5 of the Employment Agreement
and Exhibit B to that certain Employment Agreement between Executive, the Issuer and OCM; provided
that in the event of any conflict between the Exchange Agreement and the Partnership Agreement, the
Partnership Agreement shall prevail, and in the event of any conflict between any Grant Document and
the EVU Designation, the EVU Designation shall control.
7.
Interpretation and Certain Definitions.
(a)
All ambiguities shall be resolved without reference to which party may have
drafted this Agreement. All article or section headings or other captions in this Agreement are
for convenience only, and they shall not be deemed part of this Agreement and in no way define,
limit, extend or describe the scope or intent of any provisions hereof. Unless the context clearly
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indicates otherwise: (i) a term has the meaning assigned to it; (ii) “or” is not exclusive;
(iii) provisions apply to successive events and transactions; (iv) each definition herein includes
the singular and the plural; (v) each reference herein to any gender includes the masculine,
feminine, and neuter where appropriate; (vi) the word “including” when used herein means
“including, but not limited to,” and the word “include” when used herein means “include, without
limitation”; and (vii) references herein to specified paragraph numbers refer to the specified
paragraph of this Agreement. The words “hereof,” “herein,” “hereto,” “hereby,” “hereunder,”
and derivative or similar words refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular
provision of this Agreement. The words “applicable law” and any other similar references to
the law include all applicable statutes, laws (including common law), treaties, orders, rules,
regulations, determinations, orders, judgments, and decrees of any Governmental Authority.
The abbreviation “U.S.” refers to the United States of America. All monetary amounts expressed
herein by the use of the words “U.S. dollar” or “U.S. dollars” or the symbol “$” are expressed
in the lawful currency of the United States of America. The words “foreign” and “domestic”
shall be interpreted by reference to the United States of America.
(b)
Except as provided in the EVU Designation, nothing in this Agreement is
intended to confer upon Executive any right or privilege that is in addition, or otherwise more
favorable, to the rights and privileges generally enjoyed by the other Limited Partners under
the Partnership Agreement, the Exchange Agreement and the Tax Receivable Agreement, except
to the extent such additional or more favorable right or privilege is expressly and intentionally
conferred hereunder. Without limiting the foregoing, the Granted Units are not subject to any
Unit Designation, other than the EVU Designation, which alters the terms and conditions
generally applicable to Units under the Partnership Agreement.
(c)
“Oaktree Business” means the business and operations of the Oaktree Group,
including the organization, investment objectives, expenses, operational structure, management
structure and other material details of the Oaktree Group.
(d)
“Oaktree Related Person” means (i) any Oaktree Group Member, (ii) the current
and former senior executives, principals, officers, directors, employees and duly authorized
agents and representatives of any Oaktree Group Member, and (iii) the current and former direct
and indirect shareholders, partners, members and equityholders of any Oaktree Group Member
(other than the current and former direct and indirect shareholders, partners, members and
equityholders of the Issuer, who are not otherwise included in either of the foregoing clause
(i) or (ii)).
(e)
This Agreement is intended to constitute a “Grant Agreement” for purposes of
the Partnership Agreement and an “Award agreement” for purposes of the Plan. The Granted
Units are intended to constitute an “Award” for purposes of the Plan.
8.
Oaktree Representation. The Partnership hereby represents and warrants to
Executive that the Partnership and each applicable member of the Oaktree Group has the legal capacity
to execute and deliver each Grant Document and to perform all of his obligations thereunder. The
Partnership has duly executed and delivered this Agreement, and each Grant Document constitutes the
legal, valid and binding obligation of the applicable member of the Oaktree Group, enforceable in
accordance with their respective terms.
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9.
Further Assurances. Executive agrees to take all actions that may be reasonably
requested by the General Partner from time to time, including by executing and delivering all agreements,
instruments and documents that may be reasonably requested by the General Partner, to carry out the
purposes of the Grant Documents.
[remainder of page intentionally left blank]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have duly executed this Agreement as of
the date first written above.
PARTNERSHIP AND GENERAL PARTNER
OAKTREE CAPITAL GROUP HOLDINGS GP,
LLC
On behalf of itself and as general partner on behalf of
OAKTREE CAPITAL GROUP HOLDINGS, L.P.
By:
/s/ Howard S. Marks
Name: Howard S. Marks
Title: Co-Chairman
By:
/s/ Bruce A. Karsh
Name: Bruce A. Karsh
Title: Co-Chairman and Chief Investment Officer
EXECUTIVE
/s/ Jay S. Wintrob
JAY S. WINTROB
THE GRANTED UNITS HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED WITH OR QUALIFIED BY THE U.S.
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, ANY STATE SECURITIES REGULATORY
AUTHORITY OR ANY OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF ANY OTHER JURISDICTION.
SUCH UNITS ARE BEING SOLD IN RELIANCE UPON EXEMPTIONS FROM SUCH
REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS. THE GRANTED UNITS CANNOT
BE SOLD, TRANSFERRED, ASSIGNED OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF, IN EACH CASE,
EXCEPT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFERABILITY CONTAINED
IN THIS AGREEMENT AND OTHER GRANT DOCUMENTS AND THE SECURITIES LAWS OF
ALL APPLICABLE JURISDICTIONS, INCLUDING APPLICABLE U.S. FEDERAL AND STATE
SECURITIES LAWS.
Exhibit 10.22
RESTRICTED UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT
UNDER THE
OAKTREE CAPITAL GROUP, LLC
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
(CLASS A UNIT FOUR-YEAR VESTING)
This RESTRICTED UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (as may be amended, modified,
supplemented or restated from time to time, this “Agreement”) is effective as of [ ] (the “Effective Date”),
by and between OAKTREE CAPITAL GROUP, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the
“Company”), and you (the “Participant”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have
the meanings ascribed to them in the Oaktree Capital Group, LLC Amended and Restated 2011 Equity
Incentive Plan (as amended, modified, supplemented or restated from time to time, the “Plan”) and the Third
Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of the Company, dated as of August 31, 2011 (as amended,
modified, supplemented or restated from time to time, the “Operating Agreement”), as applicable. This
Agreement shall be deemed executed, accepted and agreed to by all parties hereto upon the Participant’s
acceptance of this Agreement by clicking on the “Accept” button related to this Award in the Oaktree equity
portal established to facilitate the grant of Awards under the Plan (the “Oaktree Equity Portal”).
Recitals
Whereas, the Plan was adopted for purposes of promoting the long-term financial interests
and growth of the Company or a Subsidiary or Affiliate thereof (individually, an “Oaktree Group Member”
and, collectively, the “Oaktree Group”) by, among other things, providing select investment professionals,
employees, directors, consultants and advisors of the Oaktree Group with equity-based awards based upon
Units (as defined under the Plan); and
Whereas, either the Committee authorized to administer the Plan by the Board or the Board
has approved the grant and issuance of the Granted Units (as defined below) to the Participant pursuant to
the Plan, subject to the terms and conditions of the Grant Documents (as defined below).
Now, therefore, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements herein contained,
the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, hereby agree as follows:
Agreement
1.
Grant of Units. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Operating
Agreement and the other Grant Documents:
(a)
the Company hereby grants and issues to the Participant, and the Participant hereby
accepts and receives from the Company, the number of Class A units of the Company specified for
the Participant on the Oaktree Equity Portal related to this specific Award of public units next to the
heading “Units Awarded” (the “Granted Units”), which Granted Units shall have an aggregate Award
Value specified on the Oaktree Equity Portal related to this specific Award;
(b)
if the Participant is not already a Member, then the Participant is hereby admitted as
a Member pursuant to Section 3.1 of the Operating Agreement;
(c)
the Participant hereby acknowledges that he or she has received and has reviewed
carefully a copy of (i) the Operating Agreement, (ii) the Plan, (iii) the Prospectus, dated March 30,
2016 to the Form S-8 Registration Statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
(as amended, modified, supplemented or restated from time to time, the “Prospectus”), and (iv) each
other agreement, instrument or document required by any Oaktree Group Member to be executed
and delivered by the Participant in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
(collectively, including this Agreement, the Operating Agreement, the Plan and the Prospectus, as
each such document may be amended, modified, supplemented or restated in accordance with its
respective terms from time to time, the “Grant Documents”);
(d)
if the Participant is not already a party to the Operating Agreement, then the Participant
hereby joins as a party to, and agrees to be bound by each and every provision of, the Operating
Agreement; and
(e)
notwithstanding anything in the Plan or this Agreement to the contrary, the Committee
may, in its discretion and without the Participant’s consent, provide at any time for (i) the assumption
of the Granted Units by any Affiliate of the Company, (ii) a mandatory exchange of Granted Units
into, or a substitution of such Granted Units for, units of another class of units issued by any Affiliate
of the Company having a value equivalent to the Fair Market Value of the Granted Units at the time
of such substitution or exchange, (iii) an acceleration of the lapse of restrictions on the Granted Units
or (iv) the cancellation of this Award and the termination of the Granted Units hereunder in
consideration of a payment to the Participant, in cash or other units or property, or any combination
thereof, equal to the aggregate Fair Market Value of the Granted Units at the time of such cancellation.
Payments to be made in connection with the cancellation of any Granted Units may be subject to
further vesting to the extent the Granted Units were not previously vested.
2.
(a)
schedule.]
Vesting of Units; Forfeiture.
Each Granted Unit shall be unvested as of the Effective Date. [Insert specific vesting
(b)
Forfeiture of Units. Except as otherwise determined by the Company, and subject to
Paragraph 2(c) below, if the Participant ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group for any reason or
no reason at all (including termination of such services by any Oaktree Group Member without Cause), then
all unvested Granted Units of the Participant shall be immediately and automatically forfeited on the effective
date the Participant ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group without any further action by any parties
hereto. For the avoidance of doubt, Granted Units forfeited pursuant to this Paragraph 2(b) shall be
immediately and automatically cancelled, and shall cease thereafter to be outstanding, upon such forfeiture.
(c)
Acceleration of Vesting. Notwithstanding Paragraph 2(b) above:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
for the avoidance of doubt, the Company may accelerate the vesting of any
Granted Unit, including by causing such Granted Unit to vest immediately and
automatically;
if the Participant ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group as a result
of his or her Incapacitation, all unvested Granted Units shall vest immediately
and automatically effective upon such Incapacitation; and
[INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING CLAUSE GENERALLY FOR 4-YEAR
VESTING GRANTS ONLY:] if (A) the Participant permanently ceases to
provide services to the Oaktree Group due to the termination by the Oaktree
2
Group of such services, (B) the Participant has not engaged in Cause, (C) the
Participant has delivered to the Oaktree Group, within ten calendar days (or
such longer period permitted by the Company) after such cessation, an
executed general release in form and substance reasonably determined by the
Company, fully and finally releasing all Oaktree Group Members and all
Oaktree Related Persons from all claims and other liabilities whatsoever, and
(D) the Participant does not subsequently seek to revoke or otherwise repudiate
or evade any of the provisions of such general release (whether pursuant to
any statutory revocation right or otherwise), then all unvested Granted Units
shall vest effective upon such permanent cessation.
3.
Book Entry; Designated Unit Holding Accounts. The Granted Units shall be
evidenced by uncertificated securities registered or recorded in records maintained by or on behalf of the
Company, and the Company shall cause any Granted Unit that may be deliverable hereunder to be entered
in such records as owned by the Participant as of the Effective Date. The Granted Units shall be held in such
accounts or in such other manner at or with such brokerage firms, stock transfer agents and other institutions
as are determined by the Company in its sole and absolute discretion (such accounts or manner, the
“Designated Unit Holding Accounts”, and such firms, agents and institutions, the “Designated Unit Holding
Firms”). Without the need for any further actions or authorizations from the Participant or his or her
transferees, the Company and its designees shall be entitled at any time to give such instructions to the
Designated Unit Holding Firms and other third parties with respect to the Designated Unit Holding Accounts
as the Company or such designee determines in its sole and absolute discretion to (a) permit the Company
to take such actions as are permitted under Paragraph 4 below, (b) prevent, restrict or limit (i) the Disposition
of any unvested Granted Unit or (ii) the Disposition of any vested Granted Unit in violation of any applicable
law, Paragraph 12 below, or the terms and conditions of any other agreement or instrument applicable to
such vested Granted Unit, and (c) enable any Oaktree Group Member to deduct or withhold any amount to
which such Oaktree Group Member is entitled to deduct or withhold pursuant to Paragraph 13 below.
4.
Participant’s Obligation to Pay Taxes.
(a)
The Participant shall be responsible for any and all taxes relating to the Granted Units,
including amounts due upon the vesting of any Granted Units or relating to allocations of income
with respect to the Granted Units. Without limiting Section 8.4 of the Operating Agreement and
Section 15(c) of the Plan, the Participant hereby agrees that the Company has the right (i) to require
reimbursement from the Participant of any such taxes that are paid by the Company, (ii) to deduct
any such taxes (A) from any payment of any kind otherwise due to the Participant, including as
necessary, appropriate, advisable or convenient to satisfy any foreign, U.S. federal, state or local
withholding tax requirements and (B) from payments receivable by the Participant under the Grant
Documents, and (iii) to cause the sale of any portion of Participant’s Granted Units for purposes of
payment or satisfaction of any such taxes (including by instructing the Designated Unit Holding Firms
to sell Participant’s Granted Units for purposes of payment or satisfaction of any such taxes). The
Participant hereby authorizes the Designated Unit Holding Firms, if so instructed by the Company,
to sell Granted Units for purposes of covering any such taxes and deliver the proceeds of any such
sale to the Company for payment of any such taxes. As security for the full, prompt and complete
payment and performance when due of all of the Participant’s obligations under this Paragraph 4
(including its obligation to reimburse the Company for any such taxes that are paid by the Company),
the Participant hereby unconditionally and irrevocably grants to the Company a security interest in
the Granted Units and on all proceeds directly or indirectly receivable by the Company in respect of
the Granted Units (including any distributions by the Company to the Participant in respect of the
Granted Units and any proceeds receivable by the Participant in connection with the sale of the
3
Granted Units). The Participant shall take such actions as the Company may request from time to
time to perfect or enforce such security interest and to otherwise maintain such security interest as a
first priority lien in favor of the Company.
(b) Without limiting the generality of Paragraph 4(a) above, the Company may, in its sole
and absolute discretion, permit the Participant to satisfy, in whole or in part, the foregoing withholding
liability by (i) the delivery of Mature Units, of the same type of Units as are subject to this Agreement,
owned by the Participant having a Fair Market Value equal to such withholding liability and any
follow-on tax obligations incurred as a result of the disposition of such Mature Units to the Company,
or any of its subsidiaries on behalf of the Company, as applicable, (ii) having the Company or any
of its subsidiaries, deliver in settlement of the Granted Units the number of vested Granted Units,
less a number of Granted Units with a Fair Market Value equal to such withholding liability or (iii)
the use of any other method as the Company may permit, in its sole discretion, in each case, with all
tax calculations and valuations to be undertaken by the Company in good faith and in its sole and
absolute discretion; provided that the mechanisms described in the foregoing clauses (i), (ii) and (iii)
shall only be available to the Participant if and to the extent the Participant has notified the Company
of his or her desire to use one of the available mechanisms within such time period as the Company
may require from time to time before the date on which the applicable Granted Units become vested
Granted Units.
5.
Certain Representations, Warranties, Covenants and Agreements. As an essential
inducement to the Company to grant and issue the Granted Units to the Participant, the Participant hereby
represents and warrants to the Oaktree Group as follows:
(a)
Authority and Capacity. The Participant has the legal capacity to agree to, execute
and deliver each Grant Document and to perform all of his or her obligations thereunder. The
Participant shall be deemed to have duly executed and delivered this Agreement upon accepting its
terms on the Oaktree Equity Portal, and each Grant Document constitutes the legal, valid and binding
obligation of the Participant, enforceable against the Participant in accordance with their respective
terms.
(b)
No Conflict; Satisfaction of Conditions to Membership Transactions. Neither the
execution, acceptance and delivery by the Participant of any Grant Document, nor the performance
by the Participant of his or her obligations thereunder, violates, conflicts with or constitutes a default
or breach under, or will violate, conflict with or constitute a default or breach under any applicable
law or any contract, indenture, agreement, instrument or mortgage binding on the Participant or any
of his or her properties. To the best knowledge of the Participant, neither the grant and issuance of
the Granted Units to the Participant, nor the ownership by the Participant of the Granted Units, nor
the status of the Participant as a Member:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
would reasonably be expected to result in the violation by the Company or any
other Oaktree Related Person (as defined below) of any applicable law,
including any applicable U.S. federal or state securities laws;
would reasonably be expected to terminate the existence or qualification of
the Company under the laws of any jurisdiction;
would reasonably be expected to cause the Company to be treated as an
association taxable as a corporation or otherwise to be taxed as an entity for
U.S. federal income tax purposes (to the extent not already so treated or taxed);
or
4
(iv)
would reasonably be expected to subject the Company or any other Oaktree
Related Person to any material regulatory requirement to which it, he or she
otherwise would not be subject, including any requirement that the Company
register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act or as
a result of all or any portion of the Company’s assets becoming or being deemed
to be “plan assets” for purposes of the U.S. Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974, as amended.
(c)
Suitability. The Participant meets all suitability standards or eligibility requirements
imposed by the jurisdiction of his or her residence for his or her acquisition of the Granted Units
pursuant to the Grant Documents. The Participant has such knowledge and experience in financial
and business matters that he or she is capable of evaluating the merits and risks of an investment in
the Granted Units and protecting his or her own interests in connection with such investment.
(d)
Access to Information. The Participant (i) has been provided with ample opportunity
to discuss each Grant Document, the Granted Units and the Oaktree Business (as defined below) with
the Company and to ask the Company such questions regarding each Grant Document, the Granted
Units and the Oaktree Business, and to receive such answers to such questions and such other
information, as the Participant deems necessary, appropriate or advisable, and (ii) has been provided
with ample opportunity to consult with such legal, tax, financial and other advisors of the Participant
regarding each Grant Document, the Granted Units and the Oaktree Business as the Participant deems
necessary, appropriate or advisable. The Participant has a preexisting business relationship with the
senior executives of the Oaktree Group, and such business relationship is of a nature and duration so
as to enable the Participant to be aware of their character, business acumen and general business and
financial circumstances.
(e)
Independent Investment Decision. The Participant is relying on his or her own
independent investigation and the information contained in the Grant Documents, and the Participant
is not relying on any Person (other than his or her own legal, tax, financial and other advisors) or any
representation or warranty made by any Oaktree Related Person, in each case, in deciding to own
and hold the Granted Units. Without limiting the foregoing, no representation or warranty has been
made to the Participant by any Oaktree Related Person as to the existing value or the future performance
of the Oaktree Business.
(f)
Investment Intent. The Participant will own and hold the Granted Units for his or her
own account, as a principal, for investment purposes only, and not with a view to, or for, resale or
distribution, in whole or in part. No other Person has a direct or indirect beneficial interest in the
Granted Units (other than, if the Participant is a married natural person acquiring the Granted Units
as community property, the community property interest of the Participant’s spouse). The Participant
is not acting as an agent, representative, intermediary or nominee, or in any similar capacity, for or
on behalf of any other Person with respect to any Granted Units.
(g)
Tax Consequences. The Participant understands that his or her ownership of the
Granted Units may cause him or her adverse tax consequences, including the realization of taxable
income without receiving cash distributions to pay the required tax thereon. For example, the
Participant may be taxed upon the vesting of the Granted Units on the value of the vesting Granted
Units. Moreover, although it is contemplated that the Company will make cash distributions in respect
of the Granted Units from time to time, the Participant understands that there is no obligation for the
Company to make any distribution (including tax distributions) to its Members (including the
Participant). The Participant further understands that even if the Company were to make cash
distributions from time to time, there is no assurance that such cash distributions will be made in
5
sufficient amounts or at an opportune time so as to enable the Participant to pay in a timely manner
any taxes that the Participant may be required to pay in respect of the Granted Units. The Participant
has sufficient liquid resources to pay all taxes that the Participant may be required to pay in respect
of the Granted Units, including all taxes arising from the vesting of the Granted Units or allocations
of taxable income of the Company to the Participant with respect to the Granted Units. The Participant
has reviewed his or her investment in the Granted Units with his or her tax advisors and has not
received or relied upon any tax advice from any Oaktree Related Person. No Oaktree Related Person
has made any representation or warranty (and shall not otherwise be liable to the Participant) as to
the tax treatment of vesting, allocations or distributions with respect to the Granted Units under
applicable law.
(h)
IRS 83(b) Election for non-U.S. Citizens. If the Participant is not a citizen or permanent
resident of the United States, the Participant hereby (i) agrees that, no later than 30 calendar days
after the Effective Date, he or she will (A) file an election under Section 83(b) of the U.S. Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), with respect to the Granted Units and (B) provide
a copy of such election to the Chief Financial Officer of the Company or his or her designee, and (ii)
confirms and acknowledges that he or she has filed an election under Section 83(b) of the Code with
respect to any other Units previously granted to the Participant prior to the Effective Date.
(i)
Understanding of Grant Documents. The Participant understands each provision of
each Grant Document and the terms and conditions of the Granted Units. Without limiting the
foregoing, the Participant understands that:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
the Participant has irrevocably constituted and appointed the Company as the
true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent of the Participant as set forth in
Section 2.6 of the Operating Agreement for the purposes set forth therein;
the Operating Agreement permits the Company to issue, at any time and from
time to time, without the approval of the Participant or the need to notify the
Participant, additional Units on such terms and conditions as the Company
may determine, including Units that may be senior or superior to, or of a
different class from, the Granted Units;
the Participant does not have any preemptive rights, right of first refusal, right
of first offer or other right of participation with respect to any issuances of any
Units, and such issuances are expected to have a dilutive effect on the
Participant’s interest in the Company;
amounts distributable to the Participant in respect of the Granted Units are
subject to withholding pursuant to Section 8.4 of the Operating Agreement;
and
the Participant is subject to certain minimum retained ownership requirements
with respect to the Participant’s ability to exchange or sell any Granted Units
as set forth in Paragraph 12 below; and
the Participant is subject to the protective covenants set forth in Paragraph 11
below, which includes covenants and prohibitions to which the Participant will
continue to be bound after the Participant ceases to provide services to the
Oaktree Group.
6
The Participant has given careful consideration to all of the provisions of the Grant Documents. For
the avoidance of doubt, and without limiting the immediately preceding sentence, the Participant (x)
has given careful consideration to the restraints imposed upon him or her under the Grant Documents,
(y) is in full accord as to the necessity of such provisions, and (z) understands that his or her agreement
to be bound by each such provision is an essential inducement to the Company to grant and issue the
Granted Units to the Participant.
If the Participant becomes aware that any representation or warranty made by him or her in any Grant
Document would be incorrect in any material respect if such representation or warranty were to be made as
of any subsequent date, or that the Participant is unable fulfill or perform in any material respect any of his
or her covenants or agreements in any Grant Document, the Participant shall promptly notify the Company
of such inaccuracy or inability.
6.
Incorporation of Operating Agreement Provisions. The provisions of Article XIV
of the Operating Agreement (other than Section 14.4 of the Operating Agreement) are hereby incorporated
herein by reference and shall apply mutatis mutandis to this Agreement. Without limiting the foregoing:
(a)
this Agreement may be amended, modified, or waived with the written consent of the
Company; provided that if any such amendment, modification, or waiver would adversely affect the
Participant in any material respect, such amendment, modification, or waiver shall also require the
written consent of the Participant; provided further that, for the avoidance of doubt, the Operating
Agreement may be amended, modified and waived pursuant to Article X and Section 11.5 of the
Operating Agreement, and the Plan may be amended, modified and waived pursuant to Section 14(a)
of the Plan, and any such amendment, modification and waiver of the Operating Agreement or the
Plan shall be effective with respect to the Granted Units (and shall not be deemed to be an amendment,
modification or waiver of this Agreement for purposes of the immediately preceding proviso or
otherwise);
(b)
any notice that is required or permitted hereunder to be given to any party hereto shall
be given pursuant to Section 14.1 of the Operating Agreement; and
(c)
in accordance with Section 14.8 of the Operating Agreement, this Agreement shall be
construed and enforced, along with any rights, remedies, or obligations provided for hereunder, in
accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware applicable to contracts made and to be performed
entirely within the State of Delaware by residents of the State of Delaware; provided that the
enforceability of Paragraph 7 below shall be governed by the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. Section
1 et seq., and not the laws of the State of Delaware.
7.
Arbitration of Disputes.
(a)
Any and all disputes, claims or controversies arising out of or relating to this
Agreement, including any and all disputes, claims or controversies arising out of or relating to (i) the
Company, (ii) the Participant’s rights and obligations hereunder, (iii) the validity or scope of any
provision of this Agreement, (iv) whether a particular dispute, claim or controversy is subject to
arbitration under this Paragraph 7, and (v) the power and authority of any arbitrator selected hereunder,
that are not resolved by mutual agreement shall be submitted to final and binding arbitration before
Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. (“JAMS”) pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act,
9 U.S.C. Section 1 et seq. Either the Company or the Participant may commence the arbitration
process by filing a written demand for arbitration with JAMS and delivering a copy of such demand
to the other party or parties to the arbitration in accordance with the notice procedures set forth in
Section 14.1 of the Operating Agreement. The arbitration shall take place in Wilmington, Delaware,
7
and shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of JAMS Streamlined Arbitration Rules
and Procedures in effect at the time of filing of the demand for arbitration. The parties to the arbitration
shall cooperate with JAMS and each other in selecting an arbitrator from JAMS’ panel of neutrals
and in scheduling the arbitration proceedings. The arbitrator selected shall be neutral and a former
Delaware chancery court judge or, if such judge is not available, a former U.S. federal judge with
experience in adjudicating matters under the law of the State of Delaware; provided that if no such
person is both willing and able to undertake such a role, the parties to the arbitration shall cooperate
with each other and JAMS in good faith to select such other person as may be available from a JAMS’
panel of neutrals with experience in adjudicating matters under the law of the State of Delaware. The
parties to the arbitration shall participate in the arbitration in good faith. The Company shall pay
those costs, if any, of arbitration that it must pay to cause this Paragraph 7 to be enforceable, and all
other costs of arbitration shall be shared equally between the parties to the arbitration.
(b)
No party to the arbitration shall be entitled to undertake discovery in the arbitration;
provided that, if discovery is required by applicable law, discovery shall not exceed (i) one witness
deposition plus the depositions of any expert designated by the other party or parties, (ii) two
interrogatories, (iii) ten document requests, and (iv) ten requests for admissions; provided further that
additional discovery may be permitted to the extent such additional discovery is required by applicable
law for this Paragraph 7 to be enforceable. The arbitrator shall have no power to modify any of the
provisions of this Agreement, to make an award or impose a remedy that, in each case, is not available
to the Delaware chancery court or to make an award or impose a remedy that was not requested by
a party to the dispute, and the jurisdiction of the arbitrator is limited accordingly. To the extent
permitted by law, the arbitrator shall have the power to order injunctive relief, and shall expeditiously
act on any petition for such relief.
(c)
The provisions of this Paragraph 7 may be enforced by any court of competent
jurisdiction, and, to the extent permitted by law, the party seeking enforcement shall be entitled to
an award of all costs, fees and expenses, including attorneys’ fees, to be paid by the party against
whom enforcement is ordered. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, any
party to an arbitration pursuant to this Paragraph 7 shall be entitled to seek a restraining order or
injunction in any court of competent jurisdiction to prevent any violation of the provisions of this
Agreement pending a final determination on the merits by the arbitrator, and each party hereby
consents that such a restraining order or injunction may be granted without the necessity of posting
any bond.
(d)
The details of any arbitration pursuant to this Paragraph 7, including the existence or
outcome of such arbitration and any information obtained in connection with any such arbitration,
shall be kept strictly confidential and shall not be disclosed or discussed with any person not a party
to the arbitration; provided that such party may make such disclosures as are required by applicable
law or legal process; provided further that such party may make such disclosures to its, his or her
attorneys, accountants or other agents and representatives (including, in the case of the Company,
the officers, directors and employees of any Oaktree Group Member) who reasonably need to know
the disclosed information in connection with any arbitration pursuant to this Paragraph 7 and who
are obligated to keep such information confidential to the same extent as such party. If a party to an
arbitration receives a subpoena or other request for information from a third party that seeks disclosure
of any information that is required to be kept confidential pursuant to the prior sentence, or otherwise
believes that it, he or she may be required to disclose any such information, such party shall (i)
promptly notify the other party to the arbitration and (ii) reasonably cooperate with such other party
in taking any legal or otherwise appropriate actions, including the seeking of a protective order, to
prevent the disclosure, or otherwise protect the confidentiality, of such information.
8
(e)
For the avoidance of doubt, (i) any arbitration pursuant to this Paragraph 7 shall not
include any disputes, claims or controversies that do not arise out of or relate to this Agreement, and
(ii) any arbitration pursuant to this Paragraph 7 of disputes, claims or controversies arising out of or
relating to this Agreement is intended to be separate and distinct proceeding from any arbitration or
other adjudication of disputes, claims or controversies between any Oaktree Group Member and the
Participant that do not arise out of or relate to this Agreement.
8.
Entire Agreement. The Grant Documents constitute the entire agreement among the
parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersede any prior agreement or understanding
among them with respect to such matter; provided that in the event of any conflict between the Operating
Agreement or the Plan, on the one hand, and this Agreement, on the other hand, this Agreement shall prevail.
9.
Interpretation and Certain Definitions.
(a)
All ambiguities shall be resolved without reference to which party may have drafted
this Agreement. All article, paragraph or section headings or other captions in this Agreement are
for convenience only, and they shall not be deemed part of this Agreement and in no way define,
limit, extend or describe the scope or intent of any provisions hereof. Unless the context clearly
indicates otherwise: (i) a term has the meaning assigned to it; (ii) “or” is not exclusive; (iii) provisions
apply to successive events and transactions; (iv) each definition herein includes the singular and the
plural; (v) each reference herein to any gender includes the masculine, feminine, and neuter where
appropriate; (vi) the word “including” when used herein means “including, but not limited to,” and
the word “include” when used herein means “include, without limitation”; and (vii) references herein
to specified paragraph numbers refer to the specified paragraph of this Agreement. The words
“hereof,” “herein,” “hereto,” “hereby,” “hereunder,” and derivative or similar words refer to this
Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement. The words “applicable
law” and any other similar references to the law include all applicable statutes, laws (including
common law), treaties, orders, rules, regulations, determinations, orders, judgments, and decrees of
any governmental authority. The abbreviation “U.S.” refers to the United States of America. All
monetary amounts expressed herein by the use of the words “U.S. dollar” or “U.S. dollars” or the
symbol “$” are expressed in the lawful currency of the United States of America. The words “foreign”
and “domestic” shall be interpreted by reference to the United States of America.
(b)
Nothing in this Agreement is intended to confer upon the Participant any right or
privilege that is in addition, or otherwise more favorable, to the rights and privileges generally enjoyed
by the other Members under the Operating Agreement, except to the extent such additional or more
favorable right or privilege is expressly and intentionally conferred under this Agreement; provided
that the Granted Units shall be subject to such Unit Designations as the Company determines to be
applicable for purposes of implementing one or more of the provisions of Paragraph 11 or 12 below.
(c)
“Award Units” means, collectively, all Units (including Granted Units, OCGH limited
partner units, and Class A units of the Company) granted, awarded or otherwise issued to the
Participant by any Oaktree Group Member, whether before, on or after the Effective Date, as
determined by the Company.
(d)
“Award Value” means, (i) with respect to any Award Unit that was granted, awarded
or issued on or prior to December 31, 2007, zero, (ii) with respect to any Award Unit that was granted,
awarded or issued between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2013, the amount equal to the last
reported sale price at which a Class A unit of the Company was actually traded on the Primary
Exchange on or prior to the date as of which such Award Unit is granted, awarded or issued, and (iii)
except as otherwise provided in any applicable unit designation, award agreement, or other written
9
agreement or instrument applicable to such Award Unit, as determined by the Company, with respect
to any Award Unit that is granted, awarded or issued on or after January 1, 2014, the amount determined
by the Company to be the value of such Award Unit as communicated (whether pursuant to a grant
or award agreement, any announcement or notification by any Oaktree Group Member, the Oaktree
Equity Portal or otherwise) to the Participant in connection with such issuance; provided that, in the
absence of any such determination, then the Award Value of such Award Unit shall be the amount
equal to the average daily closing sale price at which the Class A units of the Company are actually
traded on the Primary Exchange for the 20 trading days (or such other number of trading days that
the Company selects in its sole discretion) prior to the date such Award Unit is granted, awarded or
issued (or such other date that the Company selects in its sole discretion).
(e)
“Cause” means, with respect to the Participant, the occurrence of any of the following
events during the Participant’s provision of services to the Oaktree Group (regardless whether the
occurrence is discovered before or after the Participant’s cessation of services to the Oaktree Group):
(i) gross negligence or misconduct detrimental to an Oaktree Group Member, (ii) material breach of
this Agreement or any other agreement between the Participant and an Oaktree Group Member, (iii)
violation of any applicable regulatory rule or regulation, (iv) conviction of, or entry of a guilty plea
or of no contest to, a felony (other than a motor-vehicle-related felony for which no custodial penalty
is imposed), (v) entry of an order issued by any court or regulatory agency removing the Participant
as an officer of an Oaktree Group Member or prohibiting the Participant from participation in the
conduct of the affairs of an Oaktree Group Member, or (vi) fraud, theft, misappropriation or dishonesty
by the Participant relating to an Oaktree Group Member, including any theft of funds.
(f)
“Confidential Information” means any information concerning the employees,
organization, business or finances of any Oaktree Group Member, any Fund or any third party
(including any client, investor, partner, portfolio company, customer, vendor, or other person) with
which an Oaktree Group Member or a Fund is engaged or conducts business, including business
strategies, operating plans, acquisition strategies (including the identities of, and any other information
concerning, possible acquisition candidates), financial information, valuations, analyses, investment
performance, market analysis, acquisition terms and conditions, personnel, compensation and
ownership information, know-how, customer lists and relationships, the identity of any client, investor,
partner, portfolio company, customer vendor or other third party, and supplier lists and relationships,
as well as all other secret, confidential or proprietary information belonging to any Oaktree Group
Member or any Fund; provided that Confidential Information shall not include any information
generally known to the public other than as a result of a disclosure by the Participant in violation of
any confidentiality obligation owed to any Oaktree Group Member.
(g)
“Competitive Business” means any business that is competitive with the business of
any Oaktree Group Member (including raising, organizing, managing or advising any fund or separate
account having an investment strategy in any way competitive with any of the funds or separate
accounts managed by any Oaktree Group Member).
(h)
“Control” means the possession, direct or indirect, of the power to direct or cause the
direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through ownership of voting securities,
by contract or otherwise.
(i)
“Cumulative Award Value” means the cumulative total of all of the Award Values
attributable to all of the Award Units, regardless of whether any such Award Unit is (i) then held by
the Participant, (ii) vested or unvested, or (iii) subsequently forfeited, redeemed, exchanged, or
Disposed.
10
(j)
“Fund” means any limited partnership, limited liability company, group trust, mutual
fund, investment company or other entity, or any investment account, which is managed or Controlled
by any Oaktree Group Member or by an entity Controlled by any Oaktree Group Member, as
determined by the Company.
(k)
“Incapacitation” means, with respect to the Participant, the earliest to occur of (i) the
death of the Participant, or (ii) as determined by the Company, the Participant’s substantial inability
to perform services to the Oaktree Group in the Participant’s normal and regular manner by reason
of illness or other physical or mental disability for a period of at least 90 consecutive calendar days
or an aggregate of 180 calendar days in any 360-day period (or such other longer or shorter period
as the Company may select).
(l)
“Intellectual Property” means (i) any and all investment or trading, records, agreements
or data; (ii) any and all financial and other analytic models, records, data, methodologies or software;
(iii) any and all investment advisory contracts, fee schedules and investment performance data; (iv)
any and all investment agreements, limited partnership agreements, subscription agreements, private
placement memorandums and other offering documents and materials; (v) any and all client, investor
or vendor lists, records or contact data; (vi) any and all other documents, records, materials, data,
trade secrets and other incidents of business carried on by any Oaktree Group Member (whether, for
the avoidance of doubt, on behalf of itself, on behalf of any Fund, or otherwise) or learned, created,
developed or carried on by any employee of any Oaktree Group Member (in whatever form, including
print, computer file, diskette or otherwise); and (vii) all trade names, service marks and logos under
which any Oaktree Group Member does business (whether, for the avoidance of doubt, on behalf of
itself, on behalf of any Fund, or otherwise), and any and all combinations and variations thereof and
all related logos.
(m)
“Oaktree Business” means the business and operations of the Oaktree Group, including
the organization, investment objectives, expenses, operational structure, management structure and
other material details of the Oaktree Group.
(n)
“Oaktree Related Person” means (i) any Oaktree Group Member, (ii) the current and
former senior executives, officers, directors, employees and duly authorized agents and
representatives of any Oaktree Group Member, and (iii) the current and former direct and indirect
shareholders, partners, members and equityholders of any Oaktree Group Member (other than the
current and former direct and indirect shareholders, partners, members and equityholders of the
Company, who are not otherwise included in either of the foregoing clause (i) or (ii)).
(o)
“OCGH” means Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership.
(p)
“OCGH LPA” means the Fifth Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement
of OCGH, dated as of November 10, 2015, as amended, modified, supplemented or restated from
time to time.
(q)
“Person” means an individual, a general partnership, a limited partnership, a limited
liability company, an association, a joint venture, a corporation, a business, a trust, an unincorporated
organization, any other entity or a government or any department, agency, authority, instrumentality
or political subdivision thereof.
(r)
“Post-2013 Award Unit” means any Award Unit that is granted, awarded or issued on
or after January 1, 2014, except to the extent the Company in its sole and absolute discretion determines
not to treat any such Award Unit as a Post-2013 Award Unit.
11
(s)
“Post-2013 Award Value” means the cumulative total of all of the Award Values
attributable to all Post-2013 Award Units, regardless of whether any such Award Unit is (i) then held
by the Participant, (ii) vested or unvested, or (iii) subsequently forfeited, redeemed, exchanged, or
Disposed.
(t)
“Primary Exchange” means, as of any time, the securities exchange, over-the-counter
market or trading platform on which the Class A units of the Company are primarily traded during
such time, as determined by the Company. The Primary Exchange as of the Effective Date is the
New York Stock Exchange.
(u)
“Restricted Period” means the longest of: (i) in the case the Participant held at least
500,000 Award Units as of May 25, 2007 (before giving effect to the Secondary Offering) or at any
point in time thereafter, one year following the date he or she ceases to provide services to the Oaktree
Group for any reason (other than the termination of such services by the Oaktree Group without
Cause); (ii) in the case the Participant held at least 250,000 Award Units but fewer than 500,000
Award Units as of May 25, 2007 (before giving effect to the Secondary Offering) or at any point in
time thereafter (but who has never held more than 499,999 Award Units), six months following the
date he or she ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group for any reason (other than the termination
of such services by the Oaktree Group without Cause); (iii) in the case the Participant held at least
100,000 Award Units as of May 25, 2007 but fewer than 250,000 Award Units (before giving effect
to the Secondary Offering) or at any time thereafter (but who has never held more than 249,999 Award
Units), three months following the date he or she ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group for
any reason (other than the termination of such services by the Oaktree Group without Cause); (iv) in
the case the Participant’s Cumulative Award Value is at least $3,000,000 at any point in time after
May 25, 2007, one year following the date he or she ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group
for any reason (other than the termination of such services by the Oaktree Group without Cause); (v)
in the case the Participant’s Cumulative Award Value is at least $1,500,000 but less than $3,000,000
at any point in time after May 25, 2007 (but whose Cumulative Award Value has never equaled or
exceeded $3,000,000), six months following the date he or she ceases to provide services to the
Oaktree Group for any reason (other than the termination of such services by the Oaktree Group
without Cause); and (vi) in the case the Participant’s Cumulative Award Value is at least $500,000
but less than $1,500,000 at any point in time after May 25, 2007 (but whose Cumulative Award Value
has never equaled or exceeded $1,500,000), three months following the date he or she ceases to
provide services to the Oaktree Group for any reason (other than the termination of such services by
the Oaktree Group without Cause). For the avoidance of doubt, in the event more than one period
described in foregoing clauses (i) through (vi) is applicable to the Participant, the Restricted Period
shall be the longest of such periods. Notwithstanding the foregoing clauses (i) through (vi), for the
avoidance of doubt, the Participant shall be bound by any longer Restricted Period to which he or
she has agreed or may agree pursuant to any written agreement with any Oaktree Group Member
(whether executed before, on or after the Effective Date).
(v)
“Secondary Offering” means the purchase of certain Oaktree Operating Group Units
on May 25, 2007 in connection with the offer and sale by the Company of Class A units and the
related transactions thereto.
(w)
This Agreement is intended to constitute an “Award agreement” for purposes of the
Plan. The Granted Units are intended to constitute an “Award” for purposes of the Plan.
10.
Further Assurances. The Participant and his or her transferees shall take all actions
that may be reasonably requested by the Company from time to time, including by executing and delivering
all agreements, instruments and documents that may be reasonably requested by the Company, to carry out
12
the purposes of the Grant Documents. Without limiting the immediately preceding sentence, the Participant
or his or her transferees shall execute and deliver such instructions, confirmations and powers of attorney
with respect to the Designated Unit Holding Accounts for purposes consistent with Paragraph 3 above.
11.
(a)
Protective Covenants.
Certain Acknowledgments. The Participant hereby acknowledges and agrees that:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
the business of the Company and the Oaktree Group is of a special, unique,
unusual, extraordinary and specialized character;
the Participant has contributed valuable consideration to the Company or its
predecessor in exchange for the Participant’s Units;
any damage to the business and goodwill of the Company would diminish the
value of the Granted Units and the other Units (if any) that the Participant may
own);
the Company and the Oaktree Group possess and will continue to possess
information that has been created, discovered or developed by, or otherwise
become known to them (including information created, discovered or
developed by, or made known to, the Participant), which information has
commercial value in the business in which the Oaktree Group is engaged and
is treated by the Oaktree Group as Confidential Information, as a trade secret,
as Intellectual Property or as proprietary information;
the provisions of this Paragraph 11 are (A) in anticipation of, (B) reasonable
in all respects, and (C) necessary to protect the goodwill, business, confidential
information, trade secrets, intellectual property or any other proprietary
information of the Company, the Oaktree Group and the Funds, as well as to
protect the value of the Participant’s and the other Members’ interest in the
Company, in each case, from the irreparable damage that could be caused to
each of them by the Participant upon or after the Participant’s disassociation
from the Company;
the Participant desires to further the long-term success of the Company, the
Oaktree Group and the Funds, including because such success is expected to
enhance the value of the Granted Units and the other Units (if any) that the
Participant may own;
it is in the Participant’s own best interests, including to protect the value of the
Granted Units and the other Units (if any) that the Participant may own and
to further the long-term success of the Company, the Oaktree Group and the
Funds, for the Participant to agree to be bound by the provisions of this
Paragraph 11 as a condition to his or her receipt of the Granted Units; and
(viii)
the Participant is not required to become a party to this Agreement, acquire an
interest in the Company or make an investment in the Company.
(b)
Commitment. The Participant hereby agrees that for so long as the Participant provides
services to an Oaktree Group Member, the Participant shall devote substantially all of the Participant’s
business time, skill, energy and attention to his or her responsibilities with respect to the business of
such Oaktree Group Member in a diligent manner.
13
(c)
Confidential Information, Intellectual Property and Proprietary Information.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
The Participant shall not, without the prior express written consent of the
Company, (A) use for the benefit of the Participant, use to the detriment of any
Oaktree Group Member or Fund, or disclose, at any time (including while
providing services to the Oaktree Group), in each case, unless and to the extent
required by law or as required in the performance of the Participant’s services
to an Oaktree Group Member, any Confidential Information, or (B) remove
or retain, upon the Participant ceasing to provide services to the Oaktree Group
for any reason, any document, paper, electronic file or other storage medium
containing or relating to any Confidential Information, any Intellectual
Property or any physical property of any Oaktree Group Member.
The Participant hereby agrees to deliver to the Oaktree Group on the date the
Participant ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group for any reason, or
promptly at any other time that any Oaktree Group Member may request, all
memoranda, notes, plans, records, reports, computer tapes, printouts and
software and other documents and data (and copies thereof) within the
Participant’s possession or control that contain any Confidential Information
or any Intellectual Property.
The Participant hereby agrees that any and all Intellectual Property is and shall
be the exclusive property of the Oaktree Group for the Oaktree Group’s sole
use. In addition, the Participant hereby acknowledges and agrees that the
investment performance of the funds and accounts managed by any Oaktree
Group Member is attributable to the efforts of the team of professionals of the
Oaktree Group and not to the efforts of any single individual, and that,
therefore, the performance records of the funds and accounts managed by any
Oaktree Group Member are and shall be the exclusive property of the Oaktree
Group. The Participant hereby agrees that the Participant, whether during or
after the Participant’s provision of services to any Oaktree Group Member,
shall not use or disclose any Intellectual Property, including the performance
records of the funds and accounts managed by any Oaktree Group Member
without the prior written consent of the Company, except in the ordinary course
of the Participant’s services to an Oaktree Group Member.
(iv) Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, any trade secrets of the
Oaktree Group shall be entitled to all of the protections and benefits under
applicable law. The Participant hereby acknowledges that (A) the Participant
may have had, and may have in the future, access to information that constitutes
trade secrets but that has not been, and shall not be, marked to indicate its status
as such and (B) this Agreement constitutes reasonable efforts under the
circumstances by the Oaktree Group to notify the Participant of the existence
of such trade secrets and to maintain the confidentiality of such trade secrets
within the provisions of the Uniform Trade Secrets Act or other applicable law.
The Participant further understands and acknowledges that (x) an individual
will not be held criminally or civilly liable under any U.S. federal or state trade
secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that is made (1) in confidence to
a U.S. federal, state, or local government official or to an attorney solely for
the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law or (2) in
14
(v)
(vi)
a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such
filing is made under seal, and (y) an individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation
by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the
trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information
in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the
trade secret under seal and does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant
to court order. Nothing in this Agreement or any other agreement between the
Participant and an Oaktree Group Member requires the Participant to obtain
the prior authorization of (or to give notice to) the Oaktree Group regarding
any communication or disclosure described in the preceding sentence;
provided however that under no circumstance may the Participant disclose any
information covered by the attorney-client privilege of any Oaktree Group
Member or any attorney work product of any Oaktree Group Member without
the prior written consent of the Oaktree Group’s General Counsel.
Nothing in this Agreement or any other agreement between the Participant and
any Oaktree Group Member shall prohibit or restrict the Participant from
communicating, cooperating or filing a complaint with any U.S. federal, state
or local governmental or law enforcement branch, agency or entity (each, a
“Governmental Entity”) with respect to possible violations of any U.S. federal,
state or local law or regulation, or otherwise making disclosures to any
Governmental Entity, in each case, that are protected under the whistleblower
provisions of any such law or regulation, provided that in each case such
communications and disclosures are consistent with applicable law. Moreover,
the Participant can testify truthfully in response to a subpoena or other legal
process regarding any matter concerning the Participant’s relationship with
any Oaktree Group Member, provided that the Participant notifies the Oaktree
Group’s General Counsel within a reasonable time after receiving such a
subpoena or other legal process so that the Oaktree Group may take appropriate
steps to protect its interests.
If the Participant’s services to the Oaktree Group are governed by the laws of
the State of California, then in accordance with Section 2870 of the California
Labor Code the Participant’s obligation to assign the Participant’s right, title
and interest throughout the world in and to all Intellectual Property does not
apply to any works of authorship, inventions, intellectual property, materials,
documents or other work product (including, without limitation, research,
reports, software, databases, systems, applications, presentations, textual
works, content or audiovisual materials) that the Participant developed entirely
on the Participant’s own time without using the Oaktree Group’s equipment,
supplies, facilities, or Confidential Information (and any such works shall not
be deemed “Intellectual Property” hereunder), except for the Intellectual
Property that either (A) relates to the business of the Oaktree Group at the time
of conception or reduction to practice of the Intellectual Property, or actual or
demonstrably anticipated research or development of the Oaktree Group, or
(B) results from any work performed by the Participant for the Oaktree Group.
(vii)
The Participant hereby acknowledges and agrees that a remedy at law for any
breach or threatened breach of the provisions of this Paragraph 11 would be
inadequate, and, therefore, the Participant agrees that the Company shall be
15
entitled to injunctive relief, in addition to any other available rights and
remedies in case of any such breach or threatened breach; provided that nothing
contained herein shall be construed as prohibiting the Company from pursuing
any other rights and remedies available for any such breach or threatened
breach.
(d)
Interference.
(i)
To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Participant hereby agrees that for
so long as the Participant provides services to an Oaktree Group Member, and
for two years after the Participant ceases to provide such services for any
reason, the Participant shall not directly or indirectly (x) solicit any customer
or client of the Oaktree Group for a Competitive Business, provided that the
foregoing clause (x) shall not be deemed to prohibit the Participant from
participating in the normal marketing efforts of a Competitive Business after
the Participant ceases to provide services to an Oaktree Group Member, so
long as the Participant does not solicit any client or customer known to the
Participant as a result of his or her provision of services to an Oaktree Group
Member to be a client or customer of the Oaktree Group, other than clients or
customers of the Oaktree Group that, as of the date the Participant ceases to
provide services to an Oaktree Group Member, are bona fide pre-existing
clients or customers of such Competitive Business, (y) induce or attempt to
induce any employee of the Oaktree Group to leave the Oaktree Group or in
any way interfere with the relationship between the Oaktree Group and any
employee thereof, or (z) hire, engage, employ, retain or otherwise enter into
any business affiliation with any person who was an employee of the Oaktree
Group at any time during the twelve-month period prior to the date the
Participant ceases to provide services to the Oaktree Group. The Participant
acknowledges that the identities of the customers and clients of the Oaktree
Group are confidential and proprietary information of the Oaktree Group.
(ii)
To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Participant hereby agrees that for
so long as the Participant provides services to an Oaktree Group Member and
for the duration of the Restricted Period, the Participant shall not directly or
indirectly:
(1)
(2)
in any geographic location or area anywhere in the United States of
America or any other country where an Oaktree Group Member
conducts business, engage in a Competitive Business; or
invest in, own, manage, operate, finance, control, render services to or
participate (whether as an employee, consultant, independent
contractor, officer, director, agent, security holder, creditor, or
otherwise) in the ownership, management, operation, financing, or
control of, or have any interest in, or be employed by, or be associated
with or in any manner connected with, or render services, advice or aid
to, or guarantee the obligations of, any Person that engages in or
proposes to engage in a Competitive Business; provided that nothing
herein shall prohibit the Participant from being a passive owner of not
more than one percent of the outstanding stock of any class of securities
of a corporation or entity engaged in such business which is publicly
16
traded so long as the Participant has no participation in the business of
such corporation or entity (other than the exercise of his or her
shareholder voting rights).
(e)
Disparagement. The Participant hereby agrees that he or she shall not make any
statements, encourage others to make statements or release information that disparages, discredits,
or defames any Oaktree Group Member or engage in any activity that would have the effect of
disparaging, discrediting or defaming any Oaktree Group Member (including, for the avoidance of
doubt, through the disparagement, discrediting or defamation of any Fund). Notwithstanding the
foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit the Participant from making truthful statements
when required by law.
(f)
Notice of Cessation of Service. The Participant shall notify the Company of the
Participant’s intention to cease providing services to the Oaktree Group no later than (i) if the
Participant is a Managing Director or an executive officer of an Oaktree Group Member at the time
such notice is delivered, 60 calendar days prior to such cessation of services, or (ii) in all other cases,
30 calendar days prior to such cessation of services. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the notice period
set forth in this Agreement shall be the minimum notice period required from the Participant, and the
Participant shall be bound by any longer notice period to which he or she has agreed or may agree
pursuant to any grant or award agreement, employment agreement, employment offer letter, points
letter or other written agreement with any Oaktree Group Member, whether executed before, on or
after the Effective Date; provided however that if the Participant agreed to a longer minimum notice
period pursuant to a Restricted Unit Award Agreement in respect of an award of Class A units of the
Company in 2015 or 2016 (an “Excepted Class A Unit Award Agreement”), the Company hereby
agrees that the minimum notice period set forth in this Agreement shall replace the minimum notice
period set forth in such Excepted Class A Unit Award Agreement.
(g)
OCGH Affirmation. For the avoidance of doubt, the Participant acknowledges and
agrees that, if he or she has previously received OCGH limited partner units, he or she remains bound
by his or her obligations under Article X and the other provisions of the OCGH LPA, notwithstanding
his or her receipt of the Granted Units or any cessation of ownership of OCGH limited partner units
or disassociation from OCGH as a limited partner.
12.
Transferability.
(a)
The Participant shall not, without the prior express written consent of the Company,
assign, sell, convey, dispose, pledge, hypothecate or otherwise transfer (“Dispose” or a “Disposition”),
in whole or in part, any unvested Granted Unit.
(b)
The Participant shall not, without the prior express written consent of the Company,
Dispose, in whole or in part, any vested Award Unit (regardless of whether such vested Award Unit
is a Granted Unit) unless (i) the Participant is at least 65 years-old in age at the time of such Disposition,
(ii) such Disposition would occur after the first anniversary of the effective date as of which the
Participant permanently ceased to provide services to the Oaktree Group, or (iii) after giving effect
to such Disposition, the remaining number of vested Award Units then held by the Participant is at
least 25% of the cumulative number of Post-2013 Award Units issued to the Participant that have
vested.
(c) Without limiting any other restrictions set forth in this Agreement or otherwise, the
Participant hereby agrees and understands that the Granted Units may not be Disposed, in whole or
in part, except in accordance with the provisions of the Operating Agreement and any securities
17
trading policies adopted by the Oaktree Group from time to time that are generally applicable to
directors, officers, employees of, or other service providers to, the Oaktree Group with respect to
their holdings of any Units or that are otherwise adopted by the Oaktree Group for purposes of
complying with securities laws and other applicable law (a “Securities Trading Policy”).
(d)
To the fullest extent permitted by law, any Disposition or purported Disposition of a
Unit not made in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the Operating Agreement and
any Securities Trading Policy shall be null and void unless the Company determines otherwise in its
sole and absolute discretion.
(e)
For the avoidance of doubt, the obligations and covenants of the Participant under this
Agreement shall survive indefinitely pursuant to their terms, including Paragraph 11, and the
Participant agrees to remain bound to such obligations and covenants, notwithstanding any forfeiture
(whether pursuant to Paragraph 2(b) or otherwise) or a Disposition of any of the Granted Units.
13.
Right to Offset. In the event the Participant owes any amount to any Oaktree Group
Member or is otherwise liable to any Oaktree Group Member for any amount (each, a “Monetary Obligation”),
including principal or interest on any loan extended by such Oaktree Group Member to the Participant,
Oaktree is hereby authorized to deduct and withhold from any monies otherwise payable to the Participant
with respect to the Granted Units or held in the Designated Unit Holding Accounts, including any dividend
or other distribution payable by the Company with respect to the Granted Units and the proceeds payable to
the Participant from the sale or other Disposition of any Granted Unit, up to an amount equal to the Monetary
Obligation or as otherwise set forth in any agreement or note giving rise to such Monetary Obligation, for
purposes of offsetting such amount against the Monetary Obligation.
[THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIALLY LEFT BLANK.]
18
List of Subsidiaries
Exhibit 21.1
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Organization
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Name
Arbour CLO Designated Activity Company .............................................................................
Arbour CLO II Designated Activity Company ..........................................................................
Arbour CLO III Designated Activity Company .........................................................................
Arbour CLO IV Designated Activity Company ........................................................................
Arbour CLO V Designated Activity Company .........................................................................
Highstar Capital GP IV Holdings ............................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Highstar Capital GP IV, L.P. .................................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Highstar Capital GP IV, LLC ................................................................................................... Delaware
Highstar Capital IV Prism AIF, L.P. ......................................................................................... Delaware
Highstar Capital IV Prism Feeder, L.P. ................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Highstar Capital IV Prism, L.P. ............................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Highstar Capital IV, L.P. .......................................................................................................... Delaware
Highstar Capital IV-A, L.P. .................................................................................................................. Delaware
Highstar IV Holdco Management, Ltd. .............................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Highstar IV Holdco, L.P. ...................................................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree (Lux.) FS S.C.Sp. SICAV-RAIF ................................................................................. Luxembourg
Oaktree (Lux.) II ..................................................................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree (Lux.) II GP S.à r.l. ................................................................................................................ Luxembourg
Oaktree (Lux.) III .................................................................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree AIF (Cayman) GP Ltd. .............................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree AIF Holdings, Inc. ..................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree AIF Investments, L.P. ................................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree BAA Emerging Market Opportunities Fund (Feeder), L.P. ........................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree BAA Emerging Market Opportunities Fund, L.P. ....................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Boulder Investment Fund (Feeder), L.P. ........................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Boulder Investment Fund GP, L.P. ..................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Boulder Investment Fund, L.P. ........................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Capital (Beijing) Ltd. ................................................................................................. China
Oaktree Capital (Hong Kong) Limited ..................................................................................... Hong Kong
Oaktree Capital (Seoul) Limited ............................................................................................. South Korea
Oaktree Capital (Shanghai) Limited ....................................................................................... China
Oaktree Capital Europe Limited ............................................................................................. United Kingdom
Oaktree Capital Group Holdings GP, LLC .............................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Capital Group Holdings, L.P. ..................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Capital Group, LLC ................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Capital I, L.P. ............................................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Capital II, L.P. ........................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Capital Management (Cayman), L.P. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Capital Management (Dubai) Limited ....................................................................... United Arab Emirates
Oaktree Capital Management (Europe) LLP .......................................................................... United Kingdom
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Organization
Name
Oaktree Capital Management (Lux.) S.à r.l. ........................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree Capital Management (UK) LLP ................................................................................. United Kingdom
Oaktree Capital Management Fund (Europe) ........................................................................ Luxembourg
Oaktree Capital Management Limited .................................................................................... United Kingdom
Oaktree Capital Management Pte. Ltd. .................................................................................. Singapore
Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. ......................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Capital UK Limited .................................................................................................... United Kingdom
Oaktree Cascade Investment Fund I GP, L.P. ........................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Cascade Investment Fund I, L.P. .............................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Cascade Investment Fund II GP, L.P. ....................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Cascade Investment Fund II, L.P. ............................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree CLO Equityholder, LLC ............................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree CLO RR Holder, LLC ................................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Desert Sky Investment Fund II GP, L.P. .................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Desert Sky Investment Fund II, L.P. ......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Desert Sky Investment GP, L.P. ................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Desert Sky Investment, L.P. ...................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Emerging Market Debt Fund GP, L.P. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Market Debt Fund GP, Ltd. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Market Debt Fund, L.P. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Market Opportunities Fund (Feeder) GP, L.P............................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Market Opportunities Fund (Feeder), L.P. ................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Market Opportunities Fund GP Ltd. .......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Market Opportunities Fund GP, L.P. ......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Market Opportunities Fund, L.P. ............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Absolute Return (Cayman) Fund, Ltd. ........................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Absolute Return Feeder Fund, L.P.............................................. Delaware
Oaktree Emerging Markets Absolute Return Fund GP, L.P. ................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Emerging Markets Absolute Return Fund, L.P. ......................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Emerging Markets Debt Total Return Fund Corporate Feeder (Cayman), L.P.......... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Debt Total Return Fund GP Ltd................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Debt Total Return Fund GP, L.P. ................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Debt Total Return Fund Partnership Feeder (Cayman), L.P. ...... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Debt Total Return Fund, L.P........................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Equity Fund (Cayman), L.P. ........................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Equity Fund (Delaware), L.P. ...................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Equity Fund (Feeder) GP, L.P. .................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Equity Fund GP, L.P. ................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Equity Fund GP Ltd. ................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Equity Fund, L.P. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Opportunities Fund II (Feeder), L.P. ........................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Opportunities Fund II GP Ltd. ..................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Opportunities Fund II GP, L.P. .................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Emerging Markets Opportunities Fund II, L.P. .......................................................... Cayman Islands
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Name
Organization
Oaktree Employee Investment Fund (Cayman), L.P. ............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Employee Investment Fund, L.P. .............................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Energy Infrastructure Fund (Parallel), L.P. ................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Energy Infrastructure Fund Feeder (Cayman), L.P. .................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Energy Infrastructure Fund GP, L.P. ......................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Energy Infrastructure Fund, L.P. ............................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund (Cayman), L.P. ................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund (Parallel) Feeder, L.P. ........................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund (Parallel), L.P. .................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund GP, L.P. .............................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund GP, Ltd. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund II (Cayman), L.P. ................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund II (Parallel) Feeder, L.P. ..................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund II (Parallel), L.P. ................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund II GP, Ltd. ........................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund II, L.P. ................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund III (Cayman), L.P. ............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund III (Parallel) Feeder, L.P. .................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund III (Parallel), L.P. ................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund III GP, Ltd. .......................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund III, L.P. ................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Enhanced Income Fund, L.P. .................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Europe GP, Limited ................................................................................................... United Kingdom
Oaktree European Capital Solutions Fund (Parallel), L.P. ...................................................... Delaware
Oaktree European Capital Solutions Fund Feeder (U.S.), L.P. .............................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Capital Solutions Fund Feeder 2, L.P. ...................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Capital Solutions Fund GP, L.P. ............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Capital Solutions Fund GP, Ltd. ............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Capital Solutions Fund, L.P. ..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Credit Opportunities Fund (Cayman) Ltd. ................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Credit Opportunities Fund, L.P. ................................................................ United Kingdom
Oaktree European Dislocation Fund (U.S.), L.P. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Dislocation Fund GP Ltd. ......................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Dislocation Fund GP, L.P. ......................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Dislocation Fund, L.P. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European High Yield Fund, L.P. ................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree European Holdings, LLC .......................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree European Principal Fund III (Cayman), L.P............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund III (Feeder) GP, L.P. .......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund III (Parallel) Feeder, L.P. ................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund III (Parallel), L.P. ............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund III (U.S.), L.P. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund III GP, L.P.......................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund III GP, Ltd. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Name
Organization
Oaktree European Principal Fund III, L.P. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV Feeder (Cayman), L.P. ................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV Feeder (U.S.), L.P. ....................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV Feeder, S.C.S. ............................................................. Luxembourg
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV GP Ltd. ......................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV GP S.à r.l. ..................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV GP, L.P. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV, L.P. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Principal Fund IV, S.C.S. .......................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree European Senior Loan S.à.r.l. ................................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree European Special Situations Fund GP, L.P. .............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Special Situations Fund GP Ltd. .............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Special Situations Fund, L.P. ................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Student Housing Fund Feeder, SCSp ...................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree European Student Housing Fund GP, Ltd. ................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Student Housing Fund GP, S.à.r.l. ............................................................ Luxembourg
Oaktree European Student Housing Fund SLP, L.P. .............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree European Student Housing Fund, SCSp .................................................................. Luxembourg
Oaktree Expanded High Yield Fund, L.P. ............................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree FF Investment Fund AIF (Delaware), L.P. ................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree FF Investment Fund GP Ltd. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree FF Investment Fund GP, L.P. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree FF Investment Fund, L.P. .......................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree France S.A.S. ........................................................................................................... France
Oaktree Fund Administration, LLC ......................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Fund Advisors, LLC .................................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Fund AIF Series (Cayman), L.P. ............................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Fund AIF Series, L.P. ................................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Fund GP 1A, Ltd. ...................................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Fund GP 2A, Ltd. ...................................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Fund GP AIF, LLC ..................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Fund GP I, L.P. ......................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Fund GP II, L.P. ........................................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Fund GP IIA, LLC ..................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Fund GP III, L.P. ....................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Fund GP IIIA, LLC .................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Fund GP, LLC ........................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Funds ....................................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Glacier Holdings GP Ltd. .......................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Glacier Holdings, L.P. ............................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Glacier Investment Fund (Feeder), L.P. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Glacier Investment Fund II (Feeder) GP S.à.r.l. ........................................................ Luxembourg
Oaktree Glacier Investment Fund II (Feeder), S.C.Sp. ........................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree Glacier Investment Fund II, L.P. ................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Name
Organization
Oaktree Glacier Investment Fund, L.P. ................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Global Credit Feeder (Cayman), L.P. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Global Credit Fund GP Ltd. ...................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Global Credit Fund GP, L.P. ...................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Global Credit Fund, L.P. ............................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Global Credit Holdings (Cayman) Ltd. ...................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Global Credit Holdings (Delaware), L.P. ................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Global High Yield Bond Fund (Cayman), Ltd. ........................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Global High Yield Bond Fund GP, L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Global High Yield Bond Fund, L.P. ............................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree GmbH ....................................................................................................................... Germany
Oaktree High Income Convertible Fund II, L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree High Income Convertible Fund, L.P. ......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree High Yield Bond Fund, L.P. ....................................................................................... California
Oaktree High Yield Fund (Feeder) GP, Ltd. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree High Yield Fund (Feeder), L.P. .................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree High Yield Fund II, L.P. ............................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree High Yield Plus (Cayman) Fund, Ltd. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree High Yield Plus Feeder Fund, L.P. ............................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree High Yield Plus Fund, L.P. ........................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Holdings, Inc. ............................................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Holdings, LLC ........................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Holdings, Ltd. ............................................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree HSF, L.P. ................................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Huntington Investment Fund AIF (Delaware), L.P. .................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Huntington Investment Fund GP Ltd. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Huntington Investment Fund GP, L.P. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Huntington Investment Fund II AIF (Delaware), L.P. ................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Huntington Investment Fund II GP, L.P. .................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Huntington Investment Fund II, L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Huntington Investment Fund, L.P. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund (Parallel), L.P. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund Feeder (Cayman), L.P. .............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund Feeder (FF), L.P. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund Feeder S.C.S. ............................................................................ Luxembourg
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund GP Ltd. ...................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund GP, L.P. ...................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund SCS ........................................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree Infrastructure Fund, L.P. ........................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Infrastructure GP S.à r.l. ........................................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree Infrastructure IV Manager LLC ................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Infrastructure Manager LLC ...................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Infrastructure, L.P. .................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree International Holdings, LLC ...................................................................................... Delaware
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Organization
Name
Oaktree Investment Holdings II, LLC ...................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Investment Holdings, L.P. ......................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Japan Absolute Return Fund Corporate Feeder (Cayman), L.P. .............................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Japan Absolute Return Fund GP, L.P........................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Japan Absolute Return Fund Partnership Feeder (Cayman), L.P. ............................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Japan Absolute Return Fund, L.P. (Delaware) .......................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Japan Absolute Return Holdings, L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Japan GP, L.P. .......................................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Japan Opportunities Value Fund, L.P........................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Japan, GK ................................................................................................................ Japan
Oaktree Juniper Investment Fund GP Ltd. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Juniper Investment Fund GP, L.P. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Juniper Investment Fund, L.P. .................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Loan Fund 2x (Cayman) Ltd. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Loan Fund 2x (Cayman), L.P. ................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Loan Fund 2x, L.P. .................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Loan Fund GP, L.P. ................................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Loan Fund, L.P. ........................................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund III (Cayman) Ltd. ........................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund III GP, L.P. ..................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund III, L.P. ........................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund IV (Cayman) GP Ltd. ..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund IV (Cayman), L.P. .......................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund IV GP, L.P. ..................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Mezzanine Fund IV, L.P. ........................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending Feeder (CAD), L.P..................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending Fund (Parallel), L.P. .................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending Fund, L.P. .................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending GP (Parallel), LTD ..................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending GP, L.P. ..................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending JPN-A GP Ltd. ........................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending Unlevered Feeder (CAD), L.P. .................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending Unlevered Fund (Parallel), L.P. ................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending Unlevered Fund, L.P. ................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Middle-Market Direct Lending Unlevered JPN-A 2017 Fund, L.P. ............................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree MM CLO Holdings, L.P. ............................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Moraine Co-Investment Fund (Feeder), S.C.Sp. ...................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree Moraine Co-Investment Fund, L.P. ........................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Non-U.S. Convertible Fund, L.P. ............................................................................... California
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Cayman), L.P. ...................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Feeder) GP, L.P. .................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Parallel 2) AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Parallel 2) AIF (Delaware), L.P............................................. Delaware
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Name
Organization
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Parallel 2), L.P. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Parallel) AIF (Cayman), L.P. ................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Parallel) AIF (Delaware), L.P................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX (Parallel), L.P. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX AIF (Cayman), L.P. ................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX AIF (Delaware), L.P. .............................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX Delaware, L.P. ....................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX GP Ltd. .................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX GP, L.P. ................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund IX, L.P. ....................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII (Cayman) Ltd. ..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII (Parallel 2) AIF (Delaware), L.P........................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII (Parallel 2), L.P.................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII (Parallel) AIF (Cayman), L.P. .............................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII (Parallel) AIF (Delaware), L.P.............................................. Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII (Parallel), L.P. ..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII AIF (Cayman), L.P. .............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII AIF (Delaware), L.P. ............................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII Delaware, L.P. ..................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII GP Ltd. ................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII GP, L.P. ............................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIII, L.P. ..................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb (Cayman) Ltd. ................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb (Parallel) AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb (Parallel) AIF (Delaware), L.P............................................ Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb (Parallel), L.P..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb AIF (Delaware), L.P. .......................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb Delaware, L.P. ................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb GP Ltd. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb GP, L.P. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund VIIIb, L.P. ................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (Feeder) GP, L.P. ................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (Parallel 2) AIF (Cayman), L.P. .............................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (Parallel 2) AIF (Delaware), L.P.............................................. Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (Parallel 2), L.P. ..................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (Parallel) AIF (Cayman), L.P. ................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (Parallel) AIF (Delaware), L.P................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X (Parallel), L.P. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X AIF (Cayman), L.P. ................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X AIF (Delaware), L.P. ............................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X Delaware AIF Holdings, L.P. .................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X Feeder (Cayman), L.P. ........................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X GP Ltd. ................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Name
Organization
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X GP, L.P. .................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund X, L.P. ........................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb (Feeder) GP, L.P. ................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb (Parallel 2) AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb (Parallel 2), L.P..................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb (Parallel) AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb (Parallel), L.P. ...................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb Feeder (Cayman), L.P. ......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb GP Ltd. ................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb GP, L.P. ................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Opportunities Fund Xb, L.P. ...................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Overseas Investment Fund Management (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. ................................ China
Oaktree Pinnacle Investment Fund Delaware, L.P. ................................................................ USA
Oaktree Pinnacle Investment Fund GP Ltd. ........................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Pinnacle Investment Fund GP, L.P............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Pinnacle Investment Fund, L.P. ................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Power Infrastructure Warehouse Holdings, LLC ....................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III (Cayman) GP Ltd. ...................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III (Cayman), L.P. ........................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III (Parallel), L.P. ............................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III AIF (Delaware), L.P. ................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III Delaware, L.P. ............................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III GP, L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund III, L.P. ............................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund IV (Cayman) GP Ltd. ...................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund IV (Parallel), L.P. ............................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund IV Feeder (Cayman), L.P................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund IV GP, L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Power Opportunities Fund IV, L.P. ............................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Principal Fund V (Cayman) Ltd. ................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Principal Fund V (Delaware), L.P. ............................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Principal Fund V (Parallel) AIF (Cayman), L.P. ......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Principal Fund V (Parallel) AIF (Delaware), L.P. ....................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Principal Fund V (Parallel), L.P. ................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Principal Fund V AIF (Cayman), L.P. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Principal Fund V AIF (Delaware), L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Principal Fund V GP Ltd. .......................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Principal Fund V GP, L.P. .......................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Principal Fund V, L.P. ................................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Principal Fund VI (Cayman) Holdings, L.P. ............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Private Investment Fund 2009 GP, L.P. .................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Private Investment Fund 2009, L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Private Investment Fund 2010 GP, L.P. .................................................................... Delaware
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Organization
Name
Oaktree Private Investment Fund 2010, L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Private Investment Fund 2012 GP, L.P. .................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Private Investment Fund 2012, L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Private Investment Fund IV GP, L.P. ......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Private Investment Fund IV, L.P. ............................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund (Cayman) GP Ltd. ................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund (Cayman) L.P. ...................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund (Parallel) Feeder, L.P. .......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund (Parallel), L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund GP, L.P. ................................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II (Parallel), L.P. ................................................................... USA
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II Feeder (Cayman), L.P. ..................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II GP Ltd. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II GP, L.P. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II GP, S.à r.l. ........................................................................ Luxembourg
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II, L.P. .................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund II, S.C.S. .............................................................................. Luxembourg
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Fund, L.P. ..................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Debt Securities Fund – SF, LLC ............................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Income Fund GP Ltd. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Income Fund GP, L.P............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Income Fund Holdings, L.P. .................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Income Fund REIT, LLC ........................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Income Fund, L.P. ................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Income Trust, Inc. .................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund IV Delaware GP Inc. .............................................. Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund IV Delaware, L.P. ................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund IV GP Ltd. .............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund IV GP, L.P............................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund IV, L.P. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund V (Cayman) GP Ltd. .............................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund V (Cayman) L.P...................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund V GP, L.P................................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund V, L.P. ..................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI (Cayman) GP Ltd. ............................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI (Cayman), L.P.................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI (Parallel 2), L.P. ................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI (Parallel), L.P. .................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI GP, L.P............................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VI, L.P. ................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (Feeder) GP, L.P. .............................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (Feeder), L.P..................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (Parallel 2), L.P. ................................................ Delaware
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Name
Organization
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (Parallel 3) Feeder, L.P. .................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (Parallel 3), L.P. ................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (Parallel 4), L.P. ................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII (Parallel), L.P. ................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII GP Ltd. ............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII GP, L.P.............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Real Estate Opportunities Fund VII, L.P. .................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Remington Investment Fund GP, L.P. ....................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Remington Investment Fund, L.P. ............................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Senior Loan Fund (Cayman) Ltd. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Senior Loan Fund GP, L.P. ....................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Senior Loan Fund, L.P. ............................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Special Situations Fund (Feeder) GP, L.P................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund (Feeder), L.P. ..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund AIF (Cayman), L.P. ............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund AIF (Delaware), L.P. ........................................................... USA
Oaktree Special Situations Fund GP, Ltd. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund GP, L.P. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund II (Feeder), L.P. .................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund II (Feeder), SCSp ............................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree Special Situations Fund II (Parallel), SCSp .............................................................. Luxembourg
Oaktree Special Situations Fund II GP Ltd. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund II GP, L.P. ........................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund II GP, S.à r.l. ....................................................................... Luxembourg
Oaktree Special Situations Fund II, L.P. ................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Special Situations Fund, L.P. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Specialty Lending Corporation .................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund A (Cayman), L.P. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund A (Feeder) GP, L.P. ................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund A GP, L.P. ............................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund A, L.P. ..................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund B GP, L.P. ............................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund B, L.P. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund C (Cayman), L.P..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund C (Feeder) GP, L.P. ................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund C GP, L.P. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Credit Fund C, L.P. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Income (Cayman), Ltd. .............................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Income (Feeder) Holdings, L.P. ................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Strategic Income Corporation ................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Strategic Income, LLC .............................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Transportation Infrastructure Fund (Parallel 2), L.P. ................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Transportation Infrastructure Fund (Parallel), L.P. .................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Transportation Infrastructure Fund Feeder (Cayman), L.P........................................ Cayman Islands
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Name
Organization
Oaktree Transportation Infrastructure Fund GP, L.P. .............................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Transportation Infrastructure Fund, L.P..................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree TT Multi-Strategy Fund GP, L.P. ............................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree TT Multi-Strategy Fund, L.P. ..................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree TX Emerging Market Opportunities Fund, L.P. ......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Equity Fund (Cayman), L.P. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Equity Fund (Delaware), L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Value Equity Fund (Feeder) GP, L.P. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Equity Fund GP Ltd. ....................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Equity Fund GP, L.P. ....................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Equity Fund, L.P. ............................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Equity Fund-SP GP, L.P. ................................................................................. Delaware
Oaktree Value Equity Fund-SP, L.P. ....................................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Value Opportunities (Cayman) Fund, Ltd. ................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Opportunities Feeder Fund, L.P. ..................................................................... Delaware
Oaktree Value Opportunities Fund AIF (Cayman), L.P. .......................................................... Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Opportunities Fund AIF (Delaware), L.P. ........................................................ Delaware
Oaktree Value Opportunities Fund GP Ltd. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Opportunities Fund GP, L.P. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
Oaktree Value Opportunities Fund, L.P. ................................................................................. Cayman Islands
Oaktree-Forrest Multi-Strategy, LLC ....................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Asia Principal Opportunities Fund GP Ltd. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Asia Principal Opportunities Fund GP, L.P. ................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Asia Principal Opportunities Fund, L.P. ......................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Avalon Co-Investment Fund, L.P. .................................................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM BSA Holdings GP, LLC .................................................................................................. Delaware
OCM BSA Holdings, L.P. ........................................................................................................ Delaware
OCM Convertible Trust ........................................................................................................... Massachusetts
OCM Disbursement Services, L.L.C. ...................................................................................... Delaware
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund II (Delaware), L.P. ........................................... Delaware
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund II (U.S.), L.P. ................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund II AIF (Cayman), L.P. ...................................... Cayman Islands
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund II GP Ltd. ........................................................ Cayman Islands
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund II GP, L.P......................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM European Principal Opportunities Fund II, L.P. ............................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM FIE, LLC ........................................................................................................................ Delaware
OCM Group Trust ................................................................................................................... Massachusetts
OCM High Yield Plus Fund GP, L.P. ....................................................................................... Delaware
OCM High Yield Trust ............................................................................................................. Massachusetts
OCM Holdings I, LLC ............................................................................................................. Delaware
OCM Investments, LLC .......................................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Mezzanine Fund II (Cayman) Ltd. ................................................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM Mezzanine Fund II GP, L.P. ........................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Mezzanine Fund II, L.P. ................................................................................................ Delaware
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Organization
Name
OCM Mezzanine Fund, L.P. ................................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund III, L.P. ............................................................................................ Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund IV, L.P. ........................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund IVb (Cayman) Ltd. ......................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund IVb, L.P. ......................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund V (Cayman) Ltd. ............................................................................ Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund V Feeder, L.P. ................................................................................ Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund V GP, L.P. ...................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund V, L.P. ............................................................................................ Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VI (Cayman) Ltd. ........................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VI AIF (Cayman), L.P. .................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VI AIF (Delaware), L.P. .................................................................. Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VI GP, L.P. ..................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VI, L.P. ........................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VII (Cayman) Ltd. .......................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VII AIF (Delaware), L.P. ................................................................. Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VII Delaware GP Inc. ..................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VII Delaware, L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VII GP Ltd. ..................................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VII GP, L.P. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VII, L.P. .......................................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb (Cayman) Ltd. ........................................................................ Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb (Parallel) AIF (Cayman), L.P. .................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb (Parallel) AIF (Delaware), L.P. ................................................ Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb (Parallel), L.P. ......................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb AIF (Cayman), L.P. ................................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb AIF (Delaware), L.P. ............................................................... Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb Delaware, L.P. ........................................................................ Delaware
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb GP Ltd. ................................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb GP, L.P. .................................................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM Opportunities Fund VIIb, L.P. ........................................................................................ Cayman Islands
OCM Opps X AIF Holdings (Delaware), L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
OCM Opps X AIF Master Holdings (Delaware), L.P. .............................................................. Delaware
OCM Opps X AIF Master Holdings Parallel (Delaware), L.P. ................................................. Delaware
OCM Opps X AIF Master Holdings Parallel 2 (Delaware), L.P. .............................................. Delaware
OCM Opps X PRC Blocker, Ltd. ............................................................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM Power Opportunities Fund II GP (Cayman) Ltd. ............................................................ Cayman Islands
OCM Power Opportunities Fund II GP, L.P. ............................................................................ Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund III (Cayman) Ltd. ............................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund III Feeder, L.P. ................................................................. Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund III GP, L.P. ....................................................................... Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund III, L.P. ............................................................................. Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IIIA, L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV (Cayman) Ltd. ............................................................. Cayman Islands
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or
Organization
Name
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV AIF (Delaware) GP, L.P. .............................................. Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV AIF (Delaware), L.P..................................................... Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV Delaware GP Inc. ....................................................... Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV Delaware, L.P. ............................................................ Delaware
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV GP, L.P. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV GP, Ltd. ....................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM Principal Opportunities Fund IV, L.P. ............................................................................. Cayman Islands
OCM Real Estate Opportunities Fund III GP, L.P. .................................................................. Delaware
OCM Real Estate Opportunities Fund III, L.P. ........................................................................ Delaware
OCM Real Estate Opportunities Fund IIIA, L.P. ...................................................................... Delaware
OCM Sabal Europe Holdings PT, L.P. .................................................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM SSG Holdings GP, LLC ................................................................................................. Delaware
OCM SSG Holdings, L.P. ....................................................................................................... Delaware
OCM Strategic Credit Fund B SC CTB, LLC .......................................................................... Delaware
OCM Strategic Credit Fund B SP 1, L.P. ................................................................................ Delaware
OCM Strategic Credit Fund B SP 2, L.P. ................................................................................ Delaware
OCM/GFI Power Opportunities Fund II (Cayman), L.P. .......................................................... Cayman Islands
OCM/GFI Power Opportunities Fund II (Delaware), LLC ....................................................... Delaware
OCM/GFI Power Opportunities Fund II Feeder, L.P. .............................................................. Delaware
OCM/GFI Power Opportunities Fund II, L.P. .......................................................................... Delaware
Pangaea Capital Management, L.P. ....................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Pangaea Holdings Ltd. ........................................................................................................... Cayman Islands
Portfolio Income Splitter, L.P. ................................................................................................. Cayman Islands
RBO GP Holdings, L.P. .......................................................................................................... Delaware
RBO LP Holdings, L.P. ........................................................................................................... Delaware
Sabal Cayman (Promote) 1, L.P. ............................................................................................ Cayman Islands
Sabal Financial Europe Limited .............................................................................................. United Kingdom
Sabal Financial Europe, LLC .................................................................................................. Delaware
Sabal Financial Group GP, LLC .............................................................................................. Delaware
Sabal Financial Group, L.P. .................................................................................................... Delaware
Shanghai Oaktree I Overseas Investment Fund, L.P.............................................................. China
South Grand MM CLO I, LLC ................................................................................................. Delaware
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Exhibit 23.1
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:
1) Registration Statements on Form S-3 (Nos. 333-206647 and 333-211371) of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC,
and
2) Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No. 333-210485) of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC
of our reports dated February 23, 2018 with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Oaktree Capital
Group, LLC, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC,
included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC for the year ended December 31, 2017.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Los Angeles, California
February 23, 2018
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S 3 (Nos.
333-211371 and 333-206647) and Form S-8 (No. 333-210485) of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC of our report dated
February 26, 2016 relating to the financial statements, which appears in this Form 10 K.
Exhibit 23.2
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Los Angeles, California
February 23, 2018
Exhibit 31.1
I, Jay S. Wintrob, certify that:
CERTIFICATION
1.
2.
3.
4.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 of Oaktree Capital
Group, LLC;
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a
material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly
present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as
of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure
controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over
financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures
to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant,
including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly
during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial
reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability
of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this
report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of
the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that
occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case
of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the
registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal
control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of
directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over
financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record,
process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant
role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
Date: February 23, 2018
/s/ Jay S. Wintrob
Jay S. Wintrob
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.2
I, Daniel D. Levin, certify that:
CERTIFICATION
1.
2.
3.
4.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 of Oaktree Capital
Group, LLC;
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a
material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly
present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as
of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure
controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over
financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures
to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant,
including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly
during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial
reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability
of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this
report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of
the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that
occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case
of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the
registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal
control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of
directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over
financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record,
process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant
role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
Date: February 23, 2018
/s/ Daniel D. Levin
Daniel D Levin
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.1
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350,
As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC (the “Company”) for the
year ended December 31, 2017 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the
“Report”), I, Jay S. Wintrob, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and
results of operations of the Company at the dates and for the periods presented.
Date: February 23, 2018
/s/ Jay S. Wintrob
Jay S. Wintrob
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company
and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon
request.
This Certification is not deemed filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is not to be
incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (whether made before or after the date of the Report), irrespective of
any general incorporation language contained in such filing.
Exhibit 32.2
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350,
As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Oaktree Capital Group, LLC (the “Company”) for the
year ended December 31, 2017 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the
“Report”), I, Daniel D. Levin, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and
results of operations of the Company at the dates and for the periods presented.
Date: February 23, 2018
/s/ Daniel D. Levin
Daniel D. Levin
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company
and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon
request.
This Certification is not deemed filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is not to be
incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (whether made before or after the date of the Report), irrespective of
any general incorporation language contained in such filing.