Corporate Loans

AI’s rapid advancement is set to disrupt credit markets, with UBS analyst Matthew Mish predicting tens of billions in corporate loan defaults within a year. Private equity-owned software and data services firms are most exposed. Mish warns of a potential credit crunch if a severe AI transition occurs, with estimates of $75-$120 billion in defaults by 2026. The market’s slow adaptation to AI’s speed exacerbates this risk.

First Trust Senior Floating Rate Income Fund II (FCT) announced a monthly distribution of $0.097 per share, payable November 17, 2025, to shareholders of record on November 3, 2025. The distribution rate is 11.26% based on the October 17 NAV and 12.01% based on the closing market price. FCT primarily invests in senior secured floating-rate corporate loans, aiming for high current income and capital preservation. Investors should consider the risks associated with lower-grade, high-yield securities and senior loans, as well as the fund’s potential NAV reduction over time.