Q: I currently have approximately 2% of my retirement portfolio invested in Goldman Sachs Business Development Corporation Inc. (GSBD). I hold this investment primarily for the dividend income it generates. It has however been an absolutely terrible performer from a preservation of capital perspective over the past few years and every time it reports earnings it seems that the Net Asset Value per share has somehow dropped from the previously reported period. I am therefore considering switching out of GSBD and into Starwood Property Trust (STWD). i would value your opinion on that suggested trade.

If you might happen to feel that neither of these firms is a particularly advisable investment for anyone to hold then please don't be shy about saying so.

Thank you!

Q: What an interesting approach to my enquiry. I'm currently in the midst of a 30 day free trial and thus far I have posed two questions to your team. The first was answered professionally. The second was met with disdain and an indication that I am "out of credits" and should renew my membership. Fascinating. If anyone of any importance sees this and would like to take action to perhaps answer my second question, which was about GSBD:US, that would be appreciated. Thank you.

Q: Hi, I'm wondering if you might be able to offer me any insight into Goldman Sachs Business Development Corp Inc (GSBD:US)? When I look it up on TMX.COM there is an indication that it is trading at a price earnings multiple of only 3.6, that it has earnings of $5.43 per share (which I assume is for the past year), it pays a quarterly dividend of $0.45 and is currently in the midst of paying several additional special dividends of $0.05 per share and that its current yield is over 9%. With those earnings per share the dividend looks to me to be highly sustainable. I'm wondering why it might be trading at such a low P/E multiple? Is there something highly risky about the source of the firm's earnings or some other aspect of its business? Thank you!