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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 5, 2016

Registration No. 333-212788

U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

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FORM N-2

REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

ý PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1
o POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO.    

ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)

245 Park Avenue, 44^th Floor
New York, New York 10167
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code: (212) 750-7300

Joshua M. Bloomstein
General Counsel
Ares Capital Corporation
245 Park Avenue, 44^th Floor
New York, New York 10167
(212) 750-7300
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)

Copies of information to:

Monica J. Shilling
Proskauer Rose LLP
2049 Century Park East, 32^nd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90067-3206
(310) 557-2900

Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering:
From time to time after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

                If any securities being registered on this form will be offered on a delayed or continuous basis in reliance on Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, other than securities offered in connection with a dividend reinvestment plan, check the following box. ý

                It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):

                o when declared effective pursuant to section 8(c).

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

(1)

Estimated pursuant to Rule 457(o) solely for the purpose of determining the registration fee. The proposed maximum offering price per security will be determined from time to time, by the Registrant in connection with the sale by the Registrant of the securities registered under this registration statement.

(2)

Subject to Note 3 below, there is being registered hereunder an indeterminate principal amount of debt securities as may be sold, from time to time separately. If any debt securities are issued at an original issue discount, then the offering price shall be in such greater principal amount as shall result in an aggregate price to investors not to exceed $1,000,000,000.

(3)

In no event will the aggregate offering price of all debt securities issued from time to time pursuant to this registration statement exceed $1,000,000,000.

(4)

Previously paid.

                THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(a) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SECTION 8(a), MAY DETERMINE.

   

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The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.

Subject to Completion, dated August 5, 2016

PROSPECTUS

$1,000,000,000

Debt Securities

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              Ares Capital Corporation is a specialty finance company that is a closed- end, non-diversified management investment company incorporated in Maryland. We have elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Our investment objective is to generate both current income and capital appreciation through debt and equity investments. We invest primarily in first lien senior secured loans (including "unitranche" loans, which are loans that combine both senior and mezzanine debt, generally in a first lien position), second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt, which in some cases includes an equity component. To a lesser extent, we also make preferred and/or common equity investments.

              We are externally managed by our investment adviser, Ares Capital Management LLC, a subsidiary of Ares Management, L.P., a publicly traded, leading global asset manager. Ares Operations LLC, a subsidiary of Ares Management, L.P., provides certain administrative and other services necessary for us to operate.

              Investing in our debt securities involves risks that are described in the "Risk Factors" section beginning on page 23 of this prospectus, including the risk of leverage.

              We may offer, from time to time, in one or more offerings or series, up to $1,000,000,000 of our debt securities. Our debt securities may be offered at prices and on terms to be described in one or more supplements to this prospectus. This prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement concisely provide important information about us that you should know before investing in our debt securities. Please read this prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement before you invest and keep it for future reference. We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. This information is available free of charge by calling us collect at (310) 201-4200 or on our website at www.arescapitalcorp.com. The SEC also maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains such information.

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              Neither the SEC nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

              This prospectus may not be used to consummate sales of securities unless accompanied by a prospectus supplement.

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              The date of this prospectus is                        , 2016.

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              You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement. We have not authorized any other person to provide you with different information. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. We are not making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should assume that the information appearing in this prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement is accurate only as of the date on the front cover of this prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement, as applicable. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS

              This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we have filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), using the "shelf" registration process. Under the shelf registration process, we may offer, from time to time, in one or more offerings or series, up to $1,000,000,000 of our debt securities on terms to be determined at the time of the offering. Our debt securities may be offered at prices and on terms described in one or more supplements to this prospectus. This prospectus provides you with a general description of the debt securities that we may offer. Each time we use this prospectus to offer our debt securities, we will provide a prospectus supplement that will contain specific information about the terms of that offering. The prospectus supplement may also add, update or change information contained in this prospectus. Please carefully read this prospectus and the prospectus supplement together with any exhibits and the additional information described under the headings "Available Information" and "Risk Factors" before you make an investment decision.

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SELECTED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA OF ARES CAPITAL

              The following selected financial and other data as of and for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are derived from our consolidated financial statements, which have been audited by KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm whose report thereon is included elsewhere in this prospectus. The selected financial and other data as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and June 30, 2015 and other quarterly financial information is derived from our unaudited financial statements, but in the opinion of management, reflects all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) that are necessary to present fairly the results of such interim periods. Interim results as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2016. The data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Senior Securities," which are included elsewhere in this prospectus or the accompanying prospectus supplement.

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ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
As of and For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 and June 30, 2015 and
As of and For the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011
(dollar amounts in millions, except per share data and as otherwise indicated)

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SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA (Unaudited)
(dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

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UNAUDITED SELECTED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

        The following tables set forth unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data for the Company and American Capital as a combined company after giving effect to the merger of Orion Acquisition Sub, Inc. ("Acquisition Sub"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, with and into American Capital, with American Capital remaining as the surviving entity in such merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (the "Merger") and the merger of ACAM with and into IHAM, with IHAM remaining as the surviving entity in such merger (the "ACAM Merger" and together with the Merger, the "Mergers"). The information as of June 30, 2016 is presented as if the Mergers had been completed on June 30, 2016 and after giving effect to the Mortgage Manager Sale (as defined below) and certain other transactions that occurred or are expected to occur subsequent to June 30, 2016 (collectively, the "Other Pro Forma Transactions"). The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are presented as if the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions had been completed on December 31, 2014. Such unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data is based on the historical financial statements of the Company and American Capital from publicly available information and certain assumptions and adjustments as discussed in Note 3 of the accompanying notes to the pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements in the section entitled "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements." In the opinion of management, adjustments necessary to reflect the direct effect of these transactions have been made. The merger of Acquisition Sub with and into American Capital will be accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting as provided by ASC 805-50, Business Combinations-Related Issues.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data should be read together with the respective historical audited and unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes of American Capital and the Company included in this prospectus. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data are presented for illustrative purposes only and do not necessarily indicate what the future operating results or financial position of the combined company will be following completion of the Mergers. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data does not include adjustments to reflect any cost savings or other operational efficiencies that may be realized as a result of the Mergers or any future restructuring or integration expenses related to the Mergers. Additionally, the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data does not include any estimated net increase (decrease) in stockholders' equity resulting from operations or other asset sales and repayments that are not already reflected that may occur between June 30, 2016 and the completion of the Mergers.

        We and American Capital cannot assure you that the American Capital Acquisition will be completed as scheduled, or at all. See "Pending American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the terms of the American Capital Acquisition and "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We may fail to complete the American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the risks associated with a failure to complete the American Capital Acquisition.

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(dollar amounts in millions)

 

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UNAUDITED PRO FORMA PER SHARE DATA

        The following selected unaudited consolidated pro forma per share information for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 is presented as if the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions had been completed on December 31, 2014. The unaudited pro forma consolidated net asset value per common share outstanding reflects the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions as if they had been completed on June 30, 2016.

        Such unaudited pro forma consolidated per share information is based on the historical financial statements of the Company and American Capital from publicly available information and certain assumptions and adjustments as discussed in the section entitled "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements." This unaudited pro forma consolidated per share information is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of what the operating results or financial position of the Company or American Capital would have been had the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions been completed at the beginning of the periods or on the dates indicated, nor are they necessarily indicative of any future operating results or financial position of the combined company following the completion of the Mergers. The following should be read in connection with the section entitled "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements" and other information included in or incorporated by reference into this prospectus.

        We and American Capital cannot assure you that the American Capital Acquisition will be completed as scheduled, or at all. See "Pending American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the terms of the American Capital Acquisition, "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We may fail to complete the American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the risks associated with a failure to complete the American Capital Acquisition.

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RISK FACTORS

              You should carefully consider the risk factors described below, together with all of the other information included in this prospectus and the accompanying prospectus supplement, including our consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto, before you decide whether to make an investment in our debt securities. The risks set out below are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results. If any of the following events occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. In such case, the trading price, if any, of our debt securities could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESS

The capital markets may experience periods of disruption and instability. Such market conditions may materially and adversely affect debt and equity capital markets, which may have a negative impact on our business and operations.

              From time to time, capital markets may experience periods of disruption and instability. For example, between 2008 and 2009, the global capital markets were unstable as evidenced by periodic disruptions in liquidity in the debt capital markets, significant write-offs in the financial services sector, the re-pricing of credit risk in the broadly syndicated credit market and the failure of major financial institutions. Despite actions of the U.S. federal government and foreign governments, these events contributed to worsening general economic conditions that materially and adversely impacted the broader financial and credit markets and reduced the availability of debt and equity capital for the market as a whole and financial services firms in particular. While market conditions have largely recovered from the events of 2008 and 2009, there have been continuing periods of volatility, some lasting longer than others. For example, beginning in the latter half of 2015 and continuing into 2016, economic uncertainty and market volatility in China and geopolitical unrest in the Middle East, combined with continued volatility of oil prices, among other factors, have caused disruption in the capital markets, including the markets in which we participate. In addition, the referendum by British voters to exit the European Union ("E.U.") ("Brexit") in June 2016 has led to further disruption and instability in the global markets. There can be no assurance these market conditions will not continue or worsen in the future.

              Equity capital may be difficult to raise during periods of adverse or volatile market conditions because, subject to some limited exceptions, as a BDC, we are generally not able to issue additional shares of our common stock at a price less than net asset value without first obtaining approval for such issuance from our stockholders and our independent directors. We generally seek approval from our stockholders so that we have the flexibility to issue up to 25% of our then outstanding shares of our common stock at a price below net asset value. Pursuant to approval granted at a special meeting of stockholders held on May 12, 2016, we currently are permitted to sell or otherwise issue shares of our common stock at a price below net asset value, subject to certain limitations and determinations that must be made by our board of directors. Such stockholder approval expires on May 12, 2017.

              Volatility and dislocation in the capital markets can also create a challenging environment in which to raise or access debt capital. The reappearance of market conditions similar to those experienced from 2008 through 2009 for any substantial length of time could make it difficult to extend the maturity of or refinance our existing indebtedness or obtain new indebtedness with similar terms and any failure to do so could have a material adverse effect on our business. The debt capital that will be available to us in the future, if at all, may be at a higher cost and on less favorable terms and conditions than what we currently experience. If we are unable to raise or refinance debt, then our equity investors may not benefit from the potential for increased returns on equity resulting from

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leverage and we may be limited in our ability to make new commitments or to fund existing commitments to our portfolio companies.

              Significant changes or volatility in the capital markets may also have a negative effect on the valuations of our investments. While most of our investments are not publicly traded, applicable accounting standards require us to assume as part of our valuation process that our investments are sold in a principal market to market participants (even if we plan on holding an investment through its maturity). Significant changes in the capital markets may also affect the pace of our investment activity and the potential for liquidity events involving our investments. Thus, the illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to sell such investments to access capital if required, and as a result, we could realize significantly less than the value at which we have recorded our investments if we were required to sell them for liquidity purposes. An inability to raise or access capital could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Uncertainty about the financial stability of the United States, China and several countries in the E.U. could have a significant adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

              Due to federal budget deficit concerns, S&P downgraded the federal government's credit rating from AAA to AA+ for the first time in history on August 5, 2011. Further, Moody's and Fitch had warned that they may downgrade the federal government's credit rating. Further downgrades or warnings by S&P or other rating agencies, and the United States government's credit and deficit concerns in general, could cause interest rates and borrowing costs to rise, which may negatively impact both the perception of credit risk associated with our debt portfolio and our ability to access the debt markets on favorable terms. In addition, a decreased U.S. government credit rating could create broader financial turmoil and uncertainty, which may weigh heavily on our financial performance and the value of our common stock.

              In 2010, a financial crisis emerged in Europe, triggered by high budget deficits and rising direct and contingent sovereign debt in Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain, which created concerns about the ability of these nations to continue to service their sovereign debt obligations. While the financial stability of many of such countries has improved significantly, risks resulting from any future debt crisis in Europe or any similar crisis could have a detrimental impact on the global economic recovery, sovereign and non-sovereign debt in these countries and the financial condition of European financial institutions. In July and August 2015, Greece reached agreements with its international creditors for bailouts that provide aid in exchange for austerity terms that had previously been rejected by Greek voters. Market and economic disruptions have affected, and may in the future affect, consumer confidence levels and spending, personal bankruptcy rates, levels of incurrence and default on consumer debt and home prices, among other factors. We cannot assure you that market disruptions in Europe, including the increased cost of funding for certain governments and financial institutions, will not impact the global economy, and we cannot assure you that assistance packages will be available, or if available, be sufficient to stabilize countries and markets in Europe or elsewhere affected by a financial crisis. To the extent uncertainty regarding any economic recovery in Europe negatively impacts consumer confidence and consumer credit factors, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be significantly and adversely affected.

              In the second quarter of 2015, stock prices in China experienced a significant drop, resulting primarily from continued sell-off of shares trading in Chinese markets. In addition, in August 2015, Chinese authorities sharply devalued China's currency. Since then, the Chinese capital markets have continued to experience periods of instability. In June 2016, British voters passed a referendum to exit the E.U. leading to heightened volatility in global markets and foreign currencies. These market and economic disruptions have affected, and may in the future affect, the U.S. capital markets, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

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              In October 2014, the Federal Reserve announced that it was concluding its bond-buying program, or quantitative easing, which was designed to stimulate the economy and expand the Federal Reserve's holdings of long-term securities, suggesting that key economic indicators, such as the unemployment rate, had showed signs of improvement since the inception of the program. It is unclear what effect, if any, the conclusion of the Federal Reserve's bond-buying program will have on the value of our investments. Additionally, in December 2015, the Federal Reserve raised the federal funds rate. These developments, along with the United States government's credit and deficit concerns, the European sovereign debt crisis and the economic slowdown in China, could cause interest rates and borrowing costs to rise, which may negatively impact our ability to access the debt markets on favorable terms.

A failure on our part to maintain our status as a BDC would significantly reduce our operating flexibility.

              If we fail to maintain our status as a BDC, we might be regulated as a closed-end investment company that is required to register under the Investment Company Act, which would subject us to additional regulatory restrictions and significantly decrease our operating flexibility. In addition, any such failure could cause an event of default under our outstanding indebtedness, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

We are dependent upon certain key personnel of Ares for our future success and upon their access to other Ares investment professionals.

              We depend on the diligence, skill and network of business contacts of certain key personnel of the Ares Credit Group. We also depend, to a significant extent, on access to the investment professionals of other groups within Ares and the information and deal flow generated by Ares' investment professionals in the course of their investment and portfolio management activities. Our future success depends on the continued service of certain key personnel of the Ares Credit Group. The departure of any of these individuals, or of a significant number of the investment professionals or partners of Ares, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. In addition, we cannot assure you that Ares Capital Management will remain our investment adviser or that we will continue to have access to Ares' investment professionals or its information and deal flow. Further, there can be no assurance that Ares Capital will replicate its own or Ares' historical success, and we caution you that our investment returns could be substantially lower than the returns achieved by other Ares-managed funds.

Our financial condition and results of operations depend on our ability to manage future growth effectively.

              Our ability to achieve our investment objective depends on our ability to acquire suitable investments and monitor and administer those investments, which depends, in turn, on our investment adviser's ability to identify, invest in and monitor companies that meet our investment criteria.

              Accomplishing this result on a cost-effective basis is largely a function of the structuring of our investment process and the ability of our investment adviser to provide competent, attentive and efficient services to us. Our executive officers and the members of our investment adviser's investment committee have substantial responsibilities in connection with their roles at Ares and with the other Ares funds, as well as responsibilities under the investment advisory and management agreement. They may also be called upon to provide significant managerial assistance to certain of our portfolio companies. These demands on their time, which will increase as the number of investments grow, may distract them or slow the rate of investment. In order to grow, Ares will need to hire, train, supervise, manage and retain new employees. However, we cannot assure you that Ares will be able to do so

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effectively. Any failure to manage our future growth effectively could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

              In addition, as we grow, we may open up new offices in new geographic regions that may increase our direct operating expenses without corresponding revenue growth.

Our ability to grow depends on our ability to raise capital.

              We will need to periodically access the capital markets to raise cash to fund new investments in excess of our repayments, and we may also need to access the capital markets to refinance existing debt obligations to the extent such maturing obligations are not repaid with availability under our revolving credit facilities or cash flows from operations. We have elected to be treated as a RIC and operate in a manner so as to qualify for the U.S. federal income tax treatment applicable to RICs. Among other things, in order to maintain our RIC status, we must distribute to our stockholders on a timely basis generally an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income, and, as a result, such distributions will not be available to fund investment originations or repay maturing debt. We must continue to borrow from financial institutions and issue additional securities to fund our growth. Unfavorable economic or capital market conditions may increase our funding costs or limit our access to the capital markets, or could result in a decision by lenders not to extend credit to us. An inability to successfully access the capital markets may limit our ability to refinance our existing debt obligations as they become due and/or to fully execute our business strategy and could limit our ability to grow or cause us to have to shrink the size of our business, which could decrease our earnings, if any.

              In addition, with certain limited exceptions, we are only allowed to borrow amounts or issue senior securities, such that our asset coverage, as calculated pursuant to the Investment Company Act, equals at least 200% immediately after such borrowing, which, in certain circumstances, may restrict our ability to borrow or issue debt securities or preferred stock. The amount of leverage that we employ will depend on our investment adviser's and our board of directors' assessments of market and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing or issuance of senior securities. We cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain the Revolving Credit Facility, the Revolving Funding Facility and the SMBC Funding Facility (each as defined below and together, the "Facilities"), obtain other lines of credit or issue senior securities at all or on terms acceptable to us.

Regulations governing our operation as a BDC affect our ability to, and the way in which we, raise additional capital.

              We may issue senior securities or borrow money from banks or other financial institutions, up to the maximum amount permitted by the Investment Company Act. Under the provisions of the Investment Company Act, we are permitted, as a BDC, to incur indebtedness or issue senior securities only in amounts such that our asset coverage, as calculated pursuant to the Investment Company Act, equals at least 200% after each such incurrence or issuance. If the value of our assets declines, we may be unable to satisfy this test, which may prohibit us from paying dividends and could prevent us from maintaining our status as a RIC or may prohibit us from repurchasing shares of our common stock. In addition, our inability to satisfy this test could cause an event of default under our existing indebtedness. If we cannot satisfy this test, we may be required to sell a portion of our investments at a time when such sales may be disadvantageous and, depending on the nature of our leverage, repay a portion of our indebtedness. Accordingly, any failure to satisfy this test could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. As of June 30, 2016, our asset coverage calculated in accordance with the Investment Company Act was 234%. Also, to generate cash for funding new investments, we may in the future seek to issue additional debt or to securitize certain of our loans. The Investment Company Act may impose restrictions on the structure of any such securitization.

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              We are not generally able to issue and sell our common stock at a price below net asset value per share. We may, however, sell our common stock, or warrants, options or rights to acquire our common stock, at a price below the current net asset value per share of our common stock if our board of directors determines that such sale is in our best interests and the best interests of our stockholders, and our stockholders approve such sale. Any such sale would be dilutive to the net asset value per share of our common stock. In any such case, the price at which our securities are to be issued and sold may not be less than a price that, in the determination of our board of directors, closely approximates the market value of such securities (less any commission or discount). If our common stock trades at a discount to net asset value, this restriction could adversely affect our ability to raise capital.

              Pursuant to approval granted at a special meeting of stockholders held on May 12, 2016, we currently are permitted to sell or otherwise issue shares of our common stock at a price below net asset value, subject to certain limitations and determinations that must be made by our board of directors. Such stockholder approval expires on May 12, 2017.

We borrow money, which magnifies the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested and may increase the risk of investing with us.

              Borrowings, also known as leverage, magnify the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested and, therefore, increase the risks associated with investing in our securities. We currently borrow under our Facilities and have issued or assumed other senior securities, and in the future may borrow from, or issue additional senior securities to, banks, insurance companies, funds, institutional investors and other lenders and investors. Lenders and holders of such senior securities have fixed dollar claims on our consolidated assets that are superior to the claims of our common stockholders or any preferred stockholders. If the value of our consolidated assets increases, then leveraging would cause the net asset value per share of our common stock to increase more sharply than it would have had we not incurred leverage.

              Conversely, if the value of our consolidated assets decreases, leveraging would cause net asset value to decline more sharply than it otherwise would have had we not incurred leverage. Similarly, any increase in our consolidated income in excess of consolidated interest payable on the borrowed funds would cause our net income to increase more than it would had we not incurred leverage, while any decrease in our consolidated income would cause net income to decline more sharply than it would have had we not incurred leverage. Such a decline could negatively affect our ability to make common stock dividend payments. There can be no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful.

              As of June 30, 2016, we had approximately $1,340.0 million of outstanding borrowings under the Facilities, approximately $25.0 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the SBA-guaranteed debentures (the "SBA Debentures"), approximately $732.5 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the 2017 Convertible Notes, the 2018 Convertible Notes and the 2019 Convertible Notes (each as defined below and together, the "Convertible Unsecured Notes") and approximately $1,762.1 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the 2018 Notes, the 2020 Notes, the October 2022 Notes and the 2047 Notes (each as defined below and together, the "Unsecured Notes"). In order for us to cover our annual interest payments on our outstanding indebtedness at June 30, 2016, we must achieve annual returns on our June 30, 2016 total assets of at least 1.6%. The weighted average stated interest rate charged on our principal amount of outstanding indebtedness as of June 30, 2016 was 3.9%. We intends to continue borrowing under the Facilities in the future and we may increase the size of the Facilities or issue additional debt securities or other evidences of indebtedness (although there can be no assurance that we will be successful in doing so). For more information on our indebtedness, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources." Our ability to service its debt depends largely on its financial performance and is subject to prevailing

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economic conditions and competitive pressures. The amount of leverage that we employ at any particular time will depend on our investment adviser's and our board of directors' assessments of market and other factors at the time of any proposed borrowing.

              The Facilities, the SBA Debentures, the Convertible Unsecured Notes and the Unsecured Notes impose financial and operating covenants that restrict our business activities, including limitations that could hinder our ability to finance additional loans and investments or to make the distributions required to maintain our status as a RIC. A failure to renew the Facilities or to add new or replacement debt facilities or to issue additional debt securities or other evidences of indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition to regulatory requirements that restrict our ability to raise capital, the Facilities, the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Unsecured Notes and the SBA Debentures contain various covenants that, if not complied with, could accelerate repayment under the Facilities, the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Unsecured Notes and SBA Debentures, thereby materially and adversely affecting our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.

              The agreements governing the Facilities, the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Unsecured Notes and the SBA Debentures require us to comply with certain financial and operational covenants. These covenants may include, among other things:

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restrictions on the level of indebtedness that we are permitted to incur in relation to the value of our assets;



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restrictions on our ability to incur liens; and



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maintenance of a minimum level of stockholders' equity.

              As of the date of this prospectus, we are in compliance in all material respects with the covenants of the Facilities, the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Unsecured Notes and the SBA Debentures. However, our continued compliance with these covenants depends on many factors, some of which are beyond our control. For example, depending on the condition of the public debt and equity markets and pricing levels, unrealized depreciation in our portfolio may increase in the future. Any such increase could result in our inability to comply with our obligation to restrict the level of indebtedness that we are able to incur in relation to the value of our assets or to maintain a minimum level of stockholders' equity.

              Accordingly, although we believe we will continue to be in compliance, there are no assurances that we will continue to comply with the covenants in the Facilities, the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Unsecured Notes and the SBA Debentures. Failure to comply with these covenants could result in a default under the Facilities, the Convertible Unsecured Notes, the Unsecured Notes or the SBA Debentures that, if we were unable to obtain a waiver from the lenders or holders of such indebtedness, as applicable, such lenders or holders could accelerate repayment under such indebtedness and thereby have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We operate in a highly competitive market for investment opportunities.

              A number of entities compete with us to make the types of investments that we make in middle-market companies. We compete with other BDCs, public and private funds, commercial and investment banks, commercial financing companies, insurance companies, hedge funds, and, to the extent they provide an alternative form of financing, private equity funds. Many of our competitors are substantially larger and have considerably greater financial, technical and marketing resources than we do. Some competitors may have a lower cost of funds and access to funding sources that are not available to us. In addition, some of our competitors may have higher risk tolerances or different risk

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assessments, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of investments and establish more relationships than us. Furthermore, many of our competitors are not subject to the regulatory restrictions that the Investment Company Act imposes on us as a BDC and that the Code imposes on us as a RIC. We cannot assure you that the competitive pressures we face will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Also, as a result of this competition, we may not be able to pursue attractive investment opportunities from time to time.

              We do not seek to compete primarily based on the interest rates we offer and we believe that some of our competitors may make loans with interest rates that are comparable to or lower than the rates we offer. Rather, we compete with our competitors based on our existing investment platform, seasoned investment professionals, experience and focus on middle-market companies, disciplined investment philosophy, extensive industry focus and flexible transaction structuring. For a more detailed discussion of these competitive advantages, see "Business—Competitive Advantages."

              We may lose investment opportunities if we do not match our competitors' pricing, terms and structure. If we match our competitors' pricing, terms and structure, we may experience decreased net interest income and increased risk of credit loss. As a result of operating in such a competitive environment, we may make investments that are on less favorable terms than what we may have originally anticipated, which may impact our return on these investments.

We may be subject to additional corporate-level income taxes if we fail to maintain our status as a RIC.

              We have elected to be treated as a RIC under the Code and operate in a manner so as to qualify for the U.S. federal income tax treatment applicable to RICs. As a RIC, we generally will not pay U.S. federal corporate-level income taxes on our income and net capital gains that we distribute to our stockholders as dividends on a timely basis. We will be subject to U.S. federal corporate-level income tax on any undistributed income and/or gains. To maintain our status as a RIC, we must meet certain source of income, asset diversification and annual distribution requirements. We may also be subject to certain U.S. federal excise taxes, as well as state, local and foreign taxes.

              To maintain our RIC status, we must timely distribute an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income as defined by the Code, which generally includes net ordinary income and net short term capital gains) to our stockholders (the "Annual Distribution Requirement"). We have the ability to pay a large portion of our dividends in shares of our stock, and as long as a portion of such dividend is paid in cash and other requirements are met, such stock dividends will be taxable as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This may result in our U.S. stockholders having to pay tax on such dividends, even if no cash is received, and may result in our non-U.S. stockholders being subject to withholding tax in respect of amounts distributed in our stock. Because we use debt financing, we are subject to certain asset coverage ratio requirements under the Investment Company Act and financial covenants under our indebtedness that could, under certain circumstances, restrict us from making distributions necessary to qualify as a RIC. If we are unable to obtain cash from other sources, we may fail to maintain our status as a RIC and, thus, may be subject to corporate-level income tax on all of our income and/or gains.

              To maintain our status as a RIC, in addition to the Annual Distribution Requirement, we must also meet certain annual source of income requirements at the end of each taxable year and asset diversification requirements at the end of each calendar quarter. Failure to meet these requirements may result in our having to (a) dispose of certain investments quickly or (b) raise additional capital to prevent the loss of RIC status. Because most of our investments are in private companies and are generally illiquid, any such dispositions may be at disadvantageous prices and may result in losses. Also, the rules applicable to our qualification as a RIC are complex with many areas of uncertainty. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that we have qualified or will continue to qualify as a RIC. If

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we fail to maintain our status as a RIC for any reason and become subject to regular "C" corporation income tax, the resulting corporate-level income taxes could substantially reduce our net assets, the amount of income available for distribution and the amount of our distributions. Such a failure would have a material adverse effect on us and on any investment in us. Certain provisions of the Code provide some relief from RIC disqualification due to failures of the source of income and asset diversification requirements, although there may be additional taxes due in such cases. We cannot assure you that we would qualify for any such relief should we fail the source of income or asset diversification requirements.

We may have difficulty paying our required distributions under applicable tax rules if we recognize income before or without receiving cash representing such income.

              For U.S. federal income tax purposes, we generally are required to include in income certain amounts that we have not yet received in cash, such as original issue discount, which may arise, for example, if we receive warrants in connection with the making of a loan or payment in kind ("PIK") interest representing contractual interest added to the loan principal balance and due at the end of the loan term. Such original issue discount or PIK interest is included in income before we receive any corresponding cash payments. We also may be required to include in income certain other amounts that we will not receive in cash, including, for example, amounts attributable to hedging and foreign currency transactions.

              Since, in certain cases, we may recognize income before or without receiving cash in respect of such income, we may have difficulty meeting the U.S. federal income tax requirement to distribute generally an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income to maintain our status as a RIC. Accordingly, we may have to sell some of our investments at times we would not consider advantageous, raise additional debt or equity capital or reduce new investment originations to meet these distribution requirements. If we are not able to obtain cash from other sources, we may fail to qualify as a RIC and thus be subject to additional corporate-level income taxes. Such a failure would have a material adverse effect on us and on any investment in us. See "Certain Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations—Taxation as a RIC."

We are exposed to risks associated with changes in interest rates.

              General interest rate fluctuations may have a substantial negative impact on our investments and investment opportunities and, accordingly, may have a material adverse effect on our investment objective and rate of return on invested capital. Because we borrow money and may issue debt securities or preferred stock to make investments, our net investment income is dependent upon the difference between the rate at which we borrow funds or pay interest or dividends on such debt securities or preferred stock and the rate at which we invest these funds. As a result, there can be no assurance that a significant change in market interest rates will not have a material adverse effect on our net investment income.

              Trading prices for debt that pays a fixed rate of return tend to fall as interest rates rise. Trading prices tend to fluctuate more for fixed-rate securities that have longer maturities. In the past, we have entered into certain hedging transactions, such as interest rate swap agreements, to mitigate our exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates, and we may do so again in the future. In addition, we may increase our floating rate investments to position the portfolio for rate increases. However, we cannot assure you that such transactions will be successful in mitigating our exposure to interest rate risk. Hedging transactions may also limit our ability to participate in the benefits of lower interest rates with respect to our portfolio investments.

              Although we have no policy governing the maturities of our investments, under current market conditions we expect that we will invest in a portfolio of debt generally having maturities of up to

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10 years. This means that we are subject to greater risk (other things being equal) than a fund invested solely in shorter-term securities. A decline in the prices of the debt we own could adversely affect the trading price of our common stock. Also, an increase in interest rates available to investors could make an investment in our common stock less attractive if we are not able to increase our dividend rate, which could reduce the value of our common stock.

Most of our portfolio investments are not publicly traded and, as a result, the fair value of these investments may not be readily determinable.

              A large percentage of our portfolio investments are not publicly traded. The fair value of investments that are not publicly traded may not be readily determinable. We value these investments quarterly at fair value as determined in good faith by our board of directors based on, among other things, the input of our management and audit committee and independent valuation firms that have been engaged at the direction of our board of directors to assist in the valuation of each portfolio investment without a readily available market quotation at least once during a trailing 12-month period (with certain de minimis exceptions). The valuation process is conducted at the end of each fiscal quarter, with a minimum of 55% (based on value) of our valuations of portfolio companies without readily available market quotations subject to review by an independent valuation firm each quarter. However, we may use these independent valuation firms to review the value of our investments more frequently, including in connection with the occurrence of significant events or changes in value affecting a particular investment. In addition, our independent registered public accounting firm obtains an understanding of, and performs select procedures relating to, our investment valuation process within the context of performing the integrated audit.

              The types of factors that may be considered in valuing our investments include the enterprise value of the portfolio company (the entire value of the portfolio company to a market participant, including the sum of the values of debt and equity securities used to capitalize the enterprise at a point in time), the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company's ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flows, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, a comparison of the portfolio company's securities to similar publicly traded securities, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments would trade in their principal markets and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we consider the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate our valuation. Because such valuations, and particularly valuations of private investments and private companies, are inherently uncertain, may fluctuate over short periods of time and may be based on estimates, our determinations of fair value may differ materially from the values that would have been used if a ready market for these investments existed and may differ materially from the values that we may ultimately realize. Our net asset value per share could be adversely affected if our determinations regarding the fair value of these investments are higher than the values that we realize upon disposition of such investments.

The lack of liquidity in our investments may adversely affect our business.

              As we generally make investments in private companies, substantially all of these investments are subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or are otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities. The illiquidity of our investments may make it difficult for us to sell such investments if the need arises. In addition, if we are required to liquidate all or a portion of our portfolio quickly, we could realize significantly less than the value at which we have recorded our investments. In addition, we may face other restrictions on our ability to liquidate an investment in a portfolio company to the extent that we or an affiliated manager of Ares has material non-public information regarding such portfolio company.

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We may experience fluctuations in our quarterly results.

              We could experience fluctuations in our quarterly operating results due to a number of factors, including the interest rates payable on the debt investments we make, the default rates on such investments, the level of our expenses, variations in and the timing of the recognition of realized and unrealized gains or losses, the degree to which we encounter competition in our markets and general economic conditions. As a result of these factors, results for any period should not be relied upon as being indicative of performance in future periods.

Our financial condition and results of operations could be negatively affected if a significant investment fails to perform as expected.

              Our investment portfolio includes investments that may be significant individually or in the aggregate. If a significant investment in one or more companies fails to perform as expected, such a failure could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations, and the magnitude of such effect could be more significant than if we had further diversified our portfolio.

              Our investment portfolio includes our investment in the SSLP, which as of June 30, 2016, represented approximately 21% of our total portfolio at fair value. In addition, for the six months ended June 30, 2016, approximately 26% of our total investment income was earned from our investment in the SSLP. The income earned from the SSLP is derived from the interest and fee income earned by the SSLP from its investments in first lien senior secured loans of middle market companies. We provide capital to the SSLP in the form of SSLP Certificates, which had a 10.2% yield at fair value as of June 30, 2016 and are junior in right of payment to the senior notes held by GE in the SSLP. For more information on the SSLP, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Portfolio and Investment Activity—Senior Secured Loan Program." Our return on and repayment of our investment in the SSLP Certificates depends on the performance of the loans in the SSLP's portfolio in the aggregate. Accordingly, any material degradation in the performance of the loans in the SSLP's portfolio in the aggregate would have a negative effect on the yield on our SSLP Certificates and could ultimately result in the loss of some or all of our investment in the SSLP Certificates.

              As discussed in this prospectus, GE sold its U.S. Sponsor Finance business, through which GE had participated with us in the SSLP, to CPPIB. While GECC has announced its intention to continue to operate the SSLP and to provide us and CPPIB the opportunity to work together on the SSLP on a go-forward basis, it has also stated that if a mutual agreement between us and CPPIB to partner on the SSLP is not reached, it intends to retain its interest in the SSLP and the SSLP would be wound down in an orderly manner. We notified the SSLP on June 9, 2015 of our election to terminate, effective 90 days thereafter, our obligation to present senior secured lending investment opportunities to the SSLP prior to pursuing such opportunities for ourself. We do not anticipate that we will make any investments in the SSLP related to new portfolio companies. On August 24, 2015, we were advised that GECC, as the holder of the Senior Notes, directed State Street Bank and Trust Company, as trustee of the Senior Notes and the SSLP Certificates, pursuant to the terms of the indenture governing the Senior Notes and the SSLP Certificates, to apply all principal proceeds received by the SSLP from its investments to the repayment of the outstanding principal amount of the Senior Notes until paid in full (prior to the distribution of any such principal proceeds to the holders of the SSLP Certificates, which includes us). GECC had previously elected to waive its right to receive priority repayments on the Senior Notes from principal proceeds in most circumstances. As a result of these events, we expect that the aggregate SSLP portfolio will decline over time as loans in the program are repaid or exited, and as a result the portion of our earnings attributable to our investment in the SSLP will decline over time as well.

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There are significant potential conflicts of interest that could impact our investment returns.

              Certain of our executive officers and directors, and members of the investment committee of our investment adviser, serve or may serve as officers, directors or principals of other entities and affiliates of our investment adviser and investment funds managed by our affiliates. Accordingly, they may have obligations to investors in those entities, the fulfillment of which might not be in our or our stockholders' best interests or may require them to devote time to services for other entities, which could interfere with the time available to provide services to us. Certain members of our investment adviser's investment committee have significant responsibilities for other Ares funds. For example, Mr. Bennett Rosenthal is required to devote a substantial majority of his business time to the affairs of the Ares Private Equity Group. Similarly, although the professional staff of our investment adviser will devote as much time to the management of the Company as appropriate to enable our investment adviser to perform its duties in accordance with the investment advisory and management agreement, the investment professionals of our investment adviser may have conflicts in allocating their time and services among the Company, on the one hand, and investment vehicles managed by Ares or one or more of its affiliates, on the other hand. These activities could be viewed as creating a conflict of interest insofar as the time and effort of the professional staff of our investment adviser and its officers and employees will not be devoted exclusively to the business of the Company but will instead be allocated between the business of the Company and the management of these other investment vehicles. However, Ares believes that the efforts of such individuals are synergistic with and beneficial to the affairs of Ares Capital and these other investment vehicles managed by Ares or its affiliates.

              In addition, certain Ares funds may have investment objectives that compete or overlap with, and may from time to time invest in asset classes similar to those targeted by, Ares Capital. Consequently, we, on the one hand, and these other entities, on the other hand, may from time to time pursue the same or similar capital and investment opportunities. Ares and our investment adviser endeavor to allocate investment opportunities in a fair and equitable manner, and in any event consistent with any fiduciary duties owed to Ares Capital. Nevertheless, it is possible that we may not be given the opportunity to participate in certain investments made by investment funds managed by investment managers affiliated with Ares. In addition, there may be conflicts in the allocation of investment opportunities among us and the funds managed by investment managers affiliated with Ares or one or more of our controlled affiliates or among the funds they manage.

              We have from time to time sold assets to IHAM and the IHAM Vehicles and, as part of our investment strategy, we may offer to sell additional assets to vehicles managed by one or more of our controlled affiliates (including IHAM) or we may purchase assets from vehicles managed by one or more of our controlled affiliates. In addition, vehicles managed by one or more of our controlled affiliates (including IHAM) may offer assets to or may purchase assets from one another. While assets may be sold or purchased at prices that are consistent with those that could be obtained from third parties in the marketplace, and although these types of transactions generally require approval of one or more independent parties, there may be an inherent conflict of interest in such transactions between us and funds managed by one of our controlled affiliates.

              We pay a base management fee, an income based fee and a capital gains incentive fee to our investment adviser, and reimburse our investment adviser for certain expenses it incurs. In addition, investors in our common stock will invest on a gross basis and receive distributions on a net basis after expenses, resulting in, among other things, a lower rate of return than one might achieve if distributions were made on a gross basis.

              Our investment adviser's base management fee is based on a percentage of our total assets (other than cash or cash equivalents but including assets purchased with borrowed funds) and, consequently, our investment adviser may have conflicts of interest in connection with decisions that

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could affect our total assets, such as decisions as to whether to incur indebtedness or to make future investments.

              The income based fees payable by us to our investment adviser that relate to our pre-incentive fee net investment income is computed and paid on income that may include interest that is accrued but not yet received in cash. If a portfolio company defaults on a loan that is structured to provide accrued interest, it is possible that accrued interest previously used in the calculation of such fee will become uncollectible. Our investment adviser is not under any obligation to reimburse us for any part of the income based fees it received that were based on accrued interest that we never actually receive.

              In connection with the American Capital Acquisition, our investment adviser has agreed to waive, for each of the first ten calendar quarters beginning with the first full calendar quarter after the closing of the American Capital Acquisition, the lesser of (1) $10 million of the income based fees and (2) the amount of income based fees for such quarter, in each case to the extent earned and payable by us in such quarter pursuant to and as calculated under our investment advisory and management agreement.

              Our investment advisory and management agreement renews for successive annual periods if approved by our board of directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities, including, in either case, approval by a majority of our directors who are not "interested persons" of the Company as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act. However, both we and our investment adviser have the right to terminate the agreement without penalty upon 60 days' written notice to the other party. Moreover, conflicts of interest may arise if our investment adviser seeks to change the terms of our investment advisory and management agreement, including, for example, the terms for compensation. While any material change to the investment advisory and management agreement must be submitted to stockholders for approval under the Investment Company Act, we may from time to time decide it is appropriate to seek stockholder approval to change the terms of the agreement.

              We are party to an administration agreement with our administrator, Ares Operations, a subsidiary of Ares Management, pursuant to which our administrator furnishes us with administrative services and we pay our administrator at cost our allocable portion of overhead and other expenses (including travel expenses) incurred by our administrator in performing its obligations under our administration agreement, including our allocable portion of the cost of certain of our officers (including our chief compliance officer, chief financial officer, chief accounting officer, general counsel, treasurer and assistant treasurer) and their respective staffs, but not investment professionals.

              Our portfolio company, IHAM, is party to an administration agreement, referred to herein as the "IHAM administration agreement," with Ares Operations. Pursuant to the IHAM administration agreement, our administrator provides IHAM with administrative services and IHAM reimburses our administrator for all of the actual costs associated with such services, including its allocable portion of our administrator's overhead and the cost of our administrator's officers and respective staff in performing its obligations under the IHAM administration agreement. Prior to entering into the IHAM administration agreement, IHAM was party to a services agreement with our investment adviser, pursuant to which our investment adviser provided similar services.

              As a result of the arrangements described above, there may be times when the management team of Ares (including those members of management focused primarily on managing Ares Capital) has interests that differ from those of yours, giving rise to a conflict.

              Our stockholders may have conflicting investment, tax and other objectives with respect to their investments in us. The conflicting interests of individual stockholders may relate to or arise from, among other things, the nature of our investments, the structure or the acquisition of our investments and the timing of dispositions of our investments. As a consequence, conflicts of interest may arise in

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connection with decisions made by our investment adviser, including with respect to the nature or structuring of our investments, that may be more beneficial for one stockholder than for another stockholder, especially with respect to stockholders' individual tax situations. In selecting and structuring investments appropriate for us, our investment adviser will consider the investment and tax objectives of the Company and our stockholders, as a whole, not the investment, tax or other objectives of any stockholder individually.

We are dependent on information systems and systems failures could significantly disrupt our business, which may, in turn, negatively affect our liquidity, financial condition or results of operations.

              Our business is dependent on our and third parties' communications and information systems. Any failure or interruption of those systems, including as a result of the termination of an agreement with any third-party service providers, could cause delays or other problems in our activities. Our financial, accounting, data processing, backup or other operating systems and facilities may fail to operate properly or become disabled or damaged as a result of a number of factors including events that are wholly or partially beyond our control and adversely affect our business. There could be:

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sudden electrical or telecommunications outages;



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natural disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes;



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disease pandemics;



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events arising from local or larger scale political or social matters, including terrorist acts; and



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cyber-attacks.

              These events, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results and negatively affect the market price of our common stock and our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders.

Cybersecurity risks and cyber incidents may adversely affect our business by causing a disruption to our operations, a compromise or corruption of our confidential information and/or damage to our business relationships, all of which could negatively impact our business, financial condition and operating results.

              A cyber incident is considered to be any adverse event that threatens the confidentiality, integrity or availability of our information resources. These incidents may be an intentional attack or an unintentional event and could involve gaining unauthorized access to our information systems for purposes of misappropriating assets, stealing confidential information, corrupting data or causing operational disruption. The result of these incidents may include disrupted operations, misstated or unreliable financial data, liability for stolen assets or information, increased cybersecurity protection and insurance costs, litigation and damage to our business relationships. As our reliance on technology has increased, so have the risks posed to our information systems, both internal and those provided by Ares Management and third-party service providers. Ares Management has implemented processes, procedures and internal controls to help mitigate cybersecurity risks and cyber intrusions, but these measures, as well as our increased awareness of the nature and extent of a risk of a cyber incident, do not guarantee that a cyber incident will not occur and/or that our financial results, operations or confidential information will not be negatively impacted by such an incident.

Ineffective internal controls could impact our business and operating results.

              Our internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements because of its inherent limitations, including the possibility of human error, the circumvention or overriding of

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controls, or fraud. Even effective internal controls can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements. If we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal controls, including any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or if we experience difficulties in their implementation, our business and operating results could be harmed and we could fail to meet our financial reporting obligations.

Changes in laws or regulations governing our operations or the operations of our portfolio companies or our SBIC subsidiary, changes in the interpretation thereof or newly enacted laws or regulations, such as the Dodd-Frank Act, and any failure by us or our portfolio companies to comply with these laws or regulations, could require changes to certain business practices of us or our portfolio companies, negatively impact the operations, cash flows or financial condition of us or our portfolio companies, impose additional costs on us or our portfolio companies or otherwise adversely affect our business or the business of our portfolio companies.

              We and our portfolio companies are subject to regulation by laws and regulations at the local, state, federal and, in some cases, foreign levels. These laws and regulations, as well as their interpretation, may be changed from time to time, and new laws and regulations may be enacted. Accordingly, any change in these laws or regulations, changes in their interpretation, or newly enacted laws or regulations and any failure by us or our portfolio companies to comply with these laws or regulations, could require changes to certain business practices of us or our portfolio companies, negatively impact the operations, cash flows or financial condition of us or our portfolio companies, impose additional costs on us or our portfolio companies or otherwise adversely affect our business or the business of our portfolio companies.

              On July 21, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Dodd-Frank Act. Many of the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act have had extended implementation periods and delayed effective dates and have required extensive rulemaking by regulatory authorities. While many of the rules required to be written have been promulgated, some have not yet been implemented. Although the full impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on us and our portfolio companies may not be known for an extended period of time, the Dodd-Frank Act, including the rules implementing its provisions and the interpretation of those rules, along with other legislative and regulatory proposals directed at the financial services industry or affecting taxation that are proposed or pending in the U.S. Congress, may negatively impact the operations, cash flows or financial condition of us or our portfolio companies, impose additional costs on us or our portfolio companies, intensify the regulatory supervision of us or our portfolio companies or otherwise adversely affect our business or the business of our portfolio companies.

              Over the last several years, there also has been an increase in regulatory attention to the extension of credit outside of the traditional banking sector, raising the possibility that some portion of the non-bank financial sector will be subject to new regulation. While it cannot be known at this time whether any regulation will be implemented or what form it will take, increased regulation of non-bank credit extension could negatively impact our operating results or financial condition, impose additional costs on us, intensify the regulatory supervision of us or otherwise adversely affect our business.

Our investment adviser's liability is limited under the investment advisory and management agreement, and we are required to indemnify our investment adviser against certain liabilities, which may lead our investment adviser to act in a riskier manner on our behalf than it would when acting for its own account.

              Our investment adviser has not assumed any responsibility to us other than to render the services described in the investment advisory and management agreement, and it will not be responsible for any action of our board of directors in declining to follow our investment adviser's advice or recommendations. Pursuant to the investment advisory and management agreement, our investment

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adviser and its members and their respective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any other person or entities affiliated with it will not be liable to us for their acts under the investment advisory and management agreement, absent willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard in the performance of their duties. We have agreed to indemnify, defend and protect our investment adviser and its members and their respective officers, managers, partners, agents, employees, controlling persons and members and any other person or entities affiliated with it with respect to all damages, liabilities, costs and expenses arising out of or otherwise based upon the performance of any of our investment adviser's duties or obligations under the investment advisory and management agreement or otherwise as an investment adviser for the Company, and not arising out of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard in the performance of their duties under the investment advisory and management agreement. These protections may lead our investment adviser to act in a riskier manner when acting on our behalf than it would when acting for its own account. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Investments—Our investment adviser's fee structure may induce it to make certain investments, including speculative investments."

We may be obligated to pay our investment adviser certain fees even if we incur a loss.

              Our investment adviser is entitled to income based fees for each fiscal quarter in an amount equal to a percentage of the excess of our pre-incentive fee net investment income for that quarter (before deducting any income based fee and capital gains incentive fees and certain other items) above a threshold return for that quarter. Our pre-incentive fee net investment income for income based fee purposes excludes realized and unrealized capital losses or depreciation and income taxes related to realized gains that we may incur in the fiscal quarter, even if such capital losses or depreciation and income taxes related to realized gains result in a net loss on our statement of operations for that quarter. Thus, we may be required to pay our investment adviser income based fees for a fiscal quarter even if there is a decline in the value of our portfolio or we incur a net loss for that quarter.

              Under the investment advisory and management agreement, we will defer cash payment of any income based fee and the capital gains incentive fee otherwise earned by our investment adviser if, during the most recent four full calendar quarter periods ending on or prior to the date such payment is to be made, the sum of (a) our aggregate distributions to our stockholders and (b) our change in net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness and before taking into account any income based fees or capital gains incentive fees accrued during the period) is less than 7.0% of our net assets (defined as total assets less indebtedness) at the beginning of such period. These calculations will be adjusted for any share issuances or repurchases. Any such deferred fees will be carried over for payment in subsequent calculation periods to the extent such payment can then be made under the investment advisory and management agreement.

              If a portfolio company defaults on a loan that is structured to provide accrued interest, it is possible that accrued interest previously used in the calculation of income based fees will become uncollectible. Our investment adviser is not under any obligation to reimburse us for any part of income based fees it received that was based on accrued income that we never receive as a result of a default on the obligation that resulted in the accrual of such income.

Our SBIC subsidiary is subject to SBA regulations.

              Our wholly owned subsidiary, Ares Venture Finance, L.P. ("AVF LP"), is a licensed Small Business Investment Company ("SBIC") and is regulated by the Small Business Administration ("SBA"). As of June 30, 2016, AVF LP held approximately $74.8 million in assets and accounted for approximately 0.87% of our total assets. AVF LP obtains leverage by issuing the SBA Debentures. As of June 30, 2016, AVF LP had approximately $25 million in aggregate principal amount of the SBA Debentures outstanding.

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              If AVF LP fails to comply with applicable regulations, the SBA could, depending on the severity of the violation, limit or prohibit AVF LP's use of SBA Debentures, declare outstanding SBA Debentures immediately due and payable, and/or limit AVF LP from making new investments. In addition, the SBA could revoke or suspend AVF LP's license for willful or repeated violation of, or willful or repeated failure to observe, any provision of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, as amended (the "Small Business Investment Act") or any rule or regulation promulgated thereunder. AVF LP's status as an SBIC does not automatically assure that it will receive SBA Debenture funding. Receipt of SBA leverage funding is dependent upon whether AVF LP is and continues to be in compliance with SBA regulations and policies and whether funding is available. The amount of SBA leverage funding available to SBICs is dependent upon annual Congressional authorizations and in the future may be subject to annual Congressional appropriations. There can be no assurance that there will be sufficient debenture funding available at the times desired by AVF LP. For more information on SBA Debentures or the SBA regulations to which AVF LP is subject, see "Regulation—SBA Regulation."

              We have elected to be treated as a RIC and operate in a manner so as to qualify for the U.S. federal income tax treatment applicable to RICs. Among other things, in order to maintain our RIC status, we must distribute to our stockholders on a timely basis generally an amount equal to at least 90% of our investment company taxable income, which includes taxable income from AVF LP. AVF LP may be limited by SBA regulations from making certain distributions to us that may be necessary to timely make distributions to stockholders and to maintain our status as a RIC. Compliance with the SBA regulations may cause us to fail to qualify as a RIC and consequently result in the imposition of additional corporate-level income taxes on us. Noncompliance with the SBA regulations may result in adverse consequences for AVF LP as described above.

We may fail to complete the American Capital Acquisition.

              While there can be no assurances as to the exact timing, or that the American Capital Acquisition will be completed at all, we expect to complete the American Capital Acquisition as early as the fourth quarter of 2016. The completion of the American Capital Acquisition is subject to certain conditions, including, among others, American Capital stockholder approval, our stockholder approval, required regulatory approvals, receipt of certain third party consents and other customary closing conditions. We intend to complete the American Capital Acquisition as soon as possible; however, we cannot assure you that the conditions required to complete the American Capital Acquisition will be satisfied or waived on the anticipated schedule, or at all. If the American Capital Acquisition is not completed, we will have incurred substantial expenses for which no ultimate benefit will have been received. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the American Capital Acquisition—If the American Capital Acquisition does not close, we won't benefit from the expenses incurred in its pursuit." In addition, the Merger Agreement provides that, in connection with the termination of the Merger Agreement under specified circumstances, American Capital or the Company may be required to pay the other party a termination fee of $140 million. See "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the American Capital Acquisition—Under certain circumstances, American Capital and the Company are obligated to pay each other a termination fee upon termination of the Merger Agreement." See "Pending American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the terms of the American Capital Acquisition and "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the risks that the combined company may face if the American Capital Acquisition is completed. Any investment decision you make should be made with the understanding that the completion of the American Capital Acquisition may not happen as scheduled, or at all.

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RISKS RELATING TO OUR INVESTMENTS

Declines in market prices and liquidity in the corporate debt markets can result in significant net unrealized depreciation of our portfolio, which in turn would reduce our net asset value.

              As a BDC, we are required to carry our investments at market value or, if no market value is ascertainable, at fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of our board of directors. We may take into account the following types of factors, if relevant, in determining the fair value of our investments: the enterprise value of a portfolio company (the entire value of the portfolio company to a market participant, including the sum of the values of debt and equity securities used to capitalize the enterprise at a point in time), the nature and realizable value of any collateral, the portfolio company's ability to make payments and its earnings and discounted cash flow, the markets in which the portfolio company does business, a comparison of the portfolio company's securities to similar publicly traded securities, changes in the interest rate environment and the credit markets generally that may affect the price at which similar investments would trade in their principal markets and other relevant factors. When an external event such as a purchase transaction, public offering or subsequent equity sale occurs, we use the pricing indicated by the external event to corroborate our valuation. While most of our investments are not publicly traded, applicable accounting standards require us to assume as part of our valuation process that our investments are sold in a principal market to market participants (even if we plan on holding an investment through its maturity). As a result, volatility in the capital markets can also adversely affect our investment valuations. Decreases in the market values or fair values of our investments are recorded as unrealized depreciation. The effect of all of these factors on our portfolio can reduce our net asset value by increasing net unrealized depreciation in our portfolio. Depending on market conditions, we could incur substantial realized losses and may suffer unrealized losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Economic recessions or downturns could impair our portfolio companies and harm our operating results.

              Many of our portfolio companies may be susceptible to economic downturns or recessions and may be unable to repay our loans during these periods. Therefore, during these periods our non-performing assets may increase and the value of our portfolio may decrease if we are required to write down the values of our investments. Adverse economic conditions may also decrease the value of collateral securing some of our loans and the value of our equity investments. Economic slowdowns or recessions could lead to financial losses in our portfolio and a decrease in revenues, net income and assets. Unfavorable economic conditions also could increase our funding costs, limit our access to the capital markets or result in a decision by lenders not to extend credit to us. These events could prevent us from increasing investments and harm our operating results. We experienced to some extent such effects as a result of the economic downturn that occurred from 2008 through 2009 and may experience such effects again in any future downturn or recession.

              A portfolio company's failure to satisfy financial or operating covenants imposed by us or other lenders could lead to defaults and, potentially, acceleration of the time when the loans are due and foreclosure on its assets representing collateral for its obligations, which could trigger cross defaults under other agreements and jeopardize our portfolio company's ability to meet its obligations under the debt that we hold and the value of any equity securities we own. We may incur expenses to the extent necessary to seek recovery upon default or to negotiate new terms with a defaulting portfolio company.

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Investments in privately held middle-market companies involve significant risks.

              We primarily invest in privately held U.S. middle-market companies. Investments in privately held middle-market companies involve a number of significant risks, including the following:

•

these companies may have limited financial resources and may be unable to meet their obligations, which may be accompanied by a deterioration in the value of any collateral and a reduction in the likelihood of us realizing any guarantees we may have obtained in connection with our investment;



•

they typically have shorter operating histories, narrower product lines and smaller market shares than larger businesses, which tend to render them more vulnerable to competitors' actions and market conditions, as well as general economic downturns;



•

they typically depend on the management talents and efforts of a small group of persons; therefore, the death, disability, resignation or termination of one or more of these persons could have a material adverse effect on our portfolio company and, in turn, on us;



•

there is generally little public information about these companies. These companies and their financial information are not subject to the Exchange Act (as defined below) and other regulations that govern public companies, and we may be unable to uncover all material information about these companies, which may prevent us from making a fully informed investment decision and cause us to lose money on our investments;



•

they generally have less predictable operating results and may require substantial additional capital to support their operations, finance expansion or maintain their competitive position;



•

our executive officers, directors and our investment adviser may, in the ordinary course of business, be named as defendants in litigation arising from our investments in our portfolio companies;



•

changes in laws and regulations, as well as their interpretations, may adversely affect their business, financial structure or prospects; and



•

they may have difficulty accessing the capital markets to meet future capital needs.

Our debt investments may be risky and we could lose all or part of our investment.

              The debt that we invest in is typically not initially rated by any rating agency, but we believe that if such investments were rated, they would be below investment grade (rated lower than "Baa3" by Moody's Investors Service, lower than "BBB–" by Fitch Ratings or lower than "BBB–" by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services), which under the guidelines established by these entities is an indication of having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Bonds that are rated below investment grade are sometimes referred to as "high yield bonds" or "junk bonds." Therefore, our investments may result in an above average amount of risk and volatility or loss of principal. While the debt we invest in is often secured, such security does not guarantee that we will receive principal and interest payments according to the terms of the loan, or that the value of any collateral will be sufficient to allow us to recover all or a portion of the outstanding amount of the loan should we be forced to enforce our remedies.

              We also may invest in assets other than first and second lien and mezzanine debt investments, including high-yield securities, U.S. government securities, credit derivatives and other structured securities and certain direct equity investments. These investments entail additional risks that could adversely affect our investment returns.

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Investments in equity securities, many of which are illiquid with no readily available market, involve a substantial degree of risk.

              We may purchase common and other equity securities. Although common stock has historically generated higher average total returns than fixed income securities over the long-term, common stock also has experienced significantly more volatility in those returns. The equity securities we acquire may fail to appreciate and may decline in value or become worthless and our ability to recover our investment will depend on our portfolio companies' success. Investments in equity securities involve a number of significant risks, including:

•

any equity investment we make in a portfolio company could be subject to further dilution as a result of the issuance of additional equity interests and to serious risks as a junior security that will be subordinate to all indebtedness (including trade creditors) or senior securities in the event that the issuer is unable to meet its obligations or becomes subject to a bankruptcy process;



•

to the extent that the portfolio company requires additional capital and is unable to obtain it, we may not recover our investment; and



•

in some cases, equity securities in which we invest will not pay current dividends, and our ability to realize a return on our investment, as well as to recover our investment, will be dependent on the success of the portfolio company. Even if the portfolio company is successful, our ability to realize the value of our investment may be dependent on the occurrence of a liquidity event, such as a public offering or the sale of the portfolio company. It is likely to take a significant amount of time before a liquidity event occurs or we can otherwise sell our investment. In addition, the equity securities we receive or invest in may be subject to restrictions on resale during periods in which it could be advantageous to sell them.

              There are special risks associated with investing in preferred securities, including:

•

preferred securities may include provisions that permit the issuer, at its discretion, to defer distributions for a stated period without any adverse consequences to the issuer. If we own a preferred security that is deferring its distributions, we may be required to report income for tax purposes before we receive such distributions;



•

preferred securities are subordinated to debt in terms of priority to income and liquidation payments, and therefore will be subject to greater credit risk than debt;



•

preferred securities may be substantially less liquid than many other securities, such as common stock or U.S. government securities; and



•

generally, preferred security holders have no voting rights with respect to the issuing company, subject to limited exceptions.

              Additionally, when we invest in first lien senior secured loans (including unitranche loans), second lien senior secured loans or mezzanine debt, we may acquire warrants or other equity securities as well. Our goal is ultimately to dispose of such equity interests and realize gains upon our disposition of such interests. However, the equity interests we receive may not appreciate in value and, in fact, may decline in value. Accordingly, we may not be able to realize gains from our equity interests and any gains that we do realize on the disposition of any equity interests may not be sufficient to offset any other losses we experience.

              We may invest, to the extent permitted by law, in the equity securities of investment funds that are operating pursuant to certain exceptions to the Investment Company Act and in advisers to similar investment funds and, to the extent we so invest, will bear our ratable share of any such company's

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expenses, including management and performance fees. We will also remain obligated to pay the base management fee, income based fee and capital gains incentive fee to our investment adviser with respect to the assets invested in the securities and instruments of such companies. With respect to each of these investments, each of our common stockholders will bear his or her share of the base management fee, income based fee and capital gains incentive fee due to our investment adviser as well as indirectly bearing the management and performance fees and other expenses of any such investment funds or advisers.

There may be circumstances in which our debt investments could be subordinated to claims of other creditors or we could be subject to lender liability claims.

              If one of our portfolio companies were to go bankrupt, even though we may have structured our interest as senior debt, depending on the facts and circumstances, a bankruptcy court might recharacterize our debt holding as an equity investment and subordinate all or a portion of our claim to that of other creditors. In addition, lenders can be subject to lender liability claims for actions taken by them where they become too involved in the borrower's business or exercise control over the borrower. For example, we could become subject to a lender's liability claim, if, among other things, we actually render significant managerial assistance.

Our portfolio companies may incur debt or issue equity securities that rank equally with, or senior to, our investments in such companies.

              Our portfolio companies may have, or may be permitted to incur, other debt, or issue other equity securities, that rank equally with, or senior to, our investments. By their terms, such instruments may provide that the holders are entitled to receive payment of dividends, interest or principal on or before the dates on which we are entitled to receive payments in respect of our investments. These debt instruments would usually prohibit the portfolio companies from paying interest on or repaying our investments in the event and during the continuance of a default under such debt. Also, in the event of insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or bankruptcy of a portfolio company, holders of securities ranking senior to our investment in that portfolio company typically are entitled to receive payment in full before we receive any distribution in respect of our investment. After repaying such holders, the portfolio company may not have any remaining assets to use for repaying its obligation to us. In the case of securities ranking equally with our investments, we would have to share on an equal basis any distributions with other security holders in the event of an insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or bankruptcy of the relevant portfolio company.

              The rights we may have with respect to the collateral securing any junior priority loans we make to our portfolio companies may also be limited pursuant to the terms of one or more intercreditor agreements (including agreements governing "first out" and "last out" structures) that we enter into with the holders of senior debt. Under such an intercreditor agreement, at any time that senior obligations are outstanding, we may forfeit certain rights with respect to the collateral to the holders of the senior obligations. These rights may include the right to commence enforcement proceedings against the collateral, the right to control the conduct of such enforcement proceedings, the right to approve amendments to collateral documents, the right to release liens on the collateral and the right to waive past defaults under collateral documents. We may not have the ability to control or direct such actions, even if as a result our rights as junior lenders are adversely affected.

When we are a debt or minority equity investor in a portfolio company, we are often not in a position to exert influence on the entity, and other equity holders and management of the company may make decisions that could decrease the value of our portfolio holdings.

              When we make debt or minority equity investments, we are subject to the risk that a portfolio company may make business decisions with which we disagree and the other equity holders and

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management of such company may take risks or otherwise act in ways that do not serve our interests. As a result, a portfolio company may make decisions that could decrease the value of our investment.

Our portfolio companies may be highly leveraged.

              Some of our portfolio companies may be highly leveraged, which may have adverse consequences to these companies and to us as an investor. These companies may be subject to restrictive financial and operating covenants and the leverage may impair these companies' ability to finance their future operations and capital needs. As a result, these companies' flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions and to take advantage of business opportunities may be limited. Further, a leveraged company's income and net assets will tend to increase or decrease at a greater rate than if borrowed money were not used.

Our investment adviser's fee structure may induce it to make certain investments, including speculative investments.

              The fees payable by us to our investment adviser may create an incentive for our investment adviser to make investments on our behalf that are risky or more speculative than would be the case in the absence of such compensation arrangement. The way in which income based fees payable to our investment adviser are determined, which are calculated as a percentage of the return on invested capital, may encourage our investment adviser to use leverage to increase the return on our investments. Under certain circumstances, the use of leverage may increase the likelihood of default, which would disfavor the holders of our common stock and the holders of securities convertible into our common stock. In addition, our investment adviser will receive the capital gains incentive fee based, in part, upon net capital gains realized on our investments. Unlike income based fees, there is no hurdle rate applicable to the capital gains incentive fee. As a result, our investment adviser may have a tendency to invest more in investments that are likely to result in capital gains as compared to income producing securities. Such a practice could result in our investing in more speculative securities than would otherwise be the case, which could result in higher investment losses, particularly during economic downturns.

              The income based fees will be computed and paid on income that has been accrued but not yet received in cash, including as a result of investments with a deferred interest feature such as debt instruments with PIK interest, preferred stock with PIK dividends and zero coupon securities. If a portfolio company defaults on a loan that is structured to provide accrued interest, it is possible that accrued interest previously used in the calculation of the income based fee will become uncollectible. Our investment adviser is not under any obligation to reimburse us for any part of the fees it received that were based on such accrued interest that we never actually received.

              Because of the structure of the income based fees, it is possible that we may have to pay income based fees in a quarter during which we incur a loss. For example, if we receive pre-incentive fee net investment income in excess of the hurdle rate for a quarter, we will pay the applicable income based fees even if we have incurred a loss in that quarter due to realized and/or unrealized capital losses. In addition, if market interest rates rise, our investment adviser may be able to invest our funds in debt instruments that provide for a higher return, which would increase our pre-incentive fee net investment income and make it easier for our investment adviser to surpass the fixed hurdle rate and receive income based fees.

Our investments in foreign companies may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.

              Our investment strategy contemplates potential investments in foreign companies. Investing in foreign companies may expose us to additional risks not typically associated with investing in U.S.

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companies. These risks include changes in exchange control regulations, political and social instability, expropriation, imposition of foreign taxes (potentially at confiscatory levels), less liquid markets, less available information than is generally the case in the United States, higher transaction costs, less government supervision of exchanges, brokers and issuers, less developed bankruptcy laws, difficulty in enforcing contractual obligations, lack of uniform accounting and auditing standards and greater price volatility.

              Although most of our investments will be U.S. dollar denominated, our investments that are denominated in a foreign currency will be subject to the risk that the value of a particular currency will change in relation to one or more other currencies. Among the factors that may affect currency values are trade balances, the level of short-term interest rates, differences in relative values of similar assets in different currencies, long-term opportunities for investment and capital appreciation and political developments. We may employ hedging techniques to minimize these risks, but we cannot assure you that such strategies will be effective or without risk to us.

We may expose ourselves to risks if we engage in hedging transactions.

              We have and may in the future enter into hedging transactions, which may expose us to risks associated with such transactions. We may utilize instruments such as forward contracts, currency options and interest rate swaps, caps, collars and floors to seek to hedge against fluctuations in the relative values of our portfolio positions from changes in currency exchange rates and market interest rates. Use of these hedging instruments may include counter-party credit risk.

              Hedging against a decline in the values of our portfolio positions does not eliminate the possibility of fluctuations in the values of such positions or prevent losses if the values of such positions decline. However, such hedging can establish other positions designed to gain from those same developments, thereby offsetting the decline in the value of such portfolio positions. Such hedging transactions may also limit the opportunity for gain if the values of the underlying portfolio positions should increase. Moreover, it may not be possible to hedge against an exchange rate or interest rate fluctuation that is so generally anticipated that we are not able to enter into a hedging transaction at an acceptable price.

              The success of our hedging transactions will depend on our ability to correctly predict movements in currencies and interest rates. Therefore, while we may enter into such transactions to seek to reduce currency exchange rate and interest rate risks, unanticipated changes in currency exchange rates or interest rates may result in poorer overall investment performance than if we had not engaged in any such hedging transactions. In addition, the degree of correlation between price movements of the instruments used in a hedging strategy and price movements in the portfolio positions being hedged may vary. Moreover, for a variety of reasons, we may not seek to (or be able to) establish a perfect correlation between such hedging instruments and the portfolio holdings being hedged. Any such imperfect correlation may prevent us from achieving the intended hedge and expose us to risk of loss. In addition, it may not be possible to hedge fully or perfectly against currency fluctuations affecting the value of securities denominated in non-U.S. currencies because the value of those securities is likely to fluctuate as a result of factors not related to currency fluctuations. See also "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We are exposed to risks associated with changes in interest rates."

We may initially invest a portion of the net proceeds of offerings pursuant to this prospectus primarily in high-quality short-term investments, which will generate lower rates of return than those expected from the interest generated on first and second lien senior secured loans and mezzanine debt.

              We may initially invest a portion of the net proceeds of offerings pursuant to this prospectus primarily in cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities and other high-quality short-term

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investments. These securities generally earn yields substantially lower than the income that we anticipate receiving once we are fully invested in accordance with our investment objective. As a result, we may not, for a time, be able to achieve our investment objective and/or we may need to, for a time, decrease the amount of any dividend that we may pay to our stockholders to a level that is substantially lower than the level that we expect to pay when the net proceeds of offerings are fully invested in accordance with our investment objective. If we do not realize yields in excess of our expenses, we may incur operating losses and the market price of our shares may decline.

RISKS RELATING TO OFFERINGS PURSUANT TO THIS PROSPECTUS

There is a risk that investors in our debt securities may not receive all of the interest income to which they are entitled.

              We intend to make distributions on a quarterly basis to our stockholders out of assets legally available for distribution. We cannot assure you that we will achieve investment results that will allow us to make a specified level of cash distributions or year-to-year increases in cash distributions. If we declare a dividend and if more stockholders opt to receive cash distributions rather than participate in our dividend reinvestment plan, we may be forced to sell some of our investments in order to make cash dividend payments.

              In addition, due to the asset coverage test applicable to us as a BDC, we may be limited in our ability to make distributions. Certain of the Facilities may also limit our ability to declare dividends if we default under certain provisions. Further, if we invest a greater amount of assets in equity securities that do not pay current dividends, it could reduce the amount available for distribution.

              The above-referenced restrictions on distributions may also inhibit our ability to make required interest payments to holders of our debt, which may cause a default under the terms of our debt agreements. Such a default could materially increase our cost of raising capital, as well as cause us to incur penalties under the terms of our debt agreements.

The trading market or market value of our publicly issued debt securities may fluctuate.

              Our publicly issued debt securities may or may not have an established trading market. We cannot assure you that a trading market for our publicly issued debt securities will ever develop or be maintained if developed. In addition to our creditworthiness, many factors may materially adversely affect the trading market for, and market value of, our publicly issued debt securities. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

•

the time remaining to the maturity of these debt securities;



•

the outstanding principal amount of debt securities with terms identical to these debt securities;



•

the ratings assigned by national statistical ratings agencies;



•

the general economic environment;



•

the supply of such debt securities trading in the secondary market, if any;



•

the redemption or repayment features, if any, of these debt securities;



•

the level, direction and volatility of market interest rates generally; and



•

market rates of interest higher or lower than rates borne by the debt securities.

              You should also be aware that there may be a limited number of buyers if and when you decide to sell your debt securities. This too may materially adversely affect the market value of the debt securities or the trading market for the debt securities.

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Terms relating to redemption may materially adversely affect your return on any debt securities that we may issue.

              If your debt securities are redeemable at our option, we may choose to redeem your debt securities at times when prevailing interest rates are lower than the interest rate paid on your debt securities. In addition, if your debt securities are subject to mandatory redemption, we may be required to redeem your debt securities also at times when prevailing interest rates are lower than the interest rate paid on your debt securities. In this circumstance, you may not be able to reinvest the redemption proceeds in a comparable security at an effective interest rate as high as your debt securities being redeemed.

Our credit ratings may not reflect all risks of an investment in our debt securities.

              Our credit ratings are an assessment by third parties of our ability to pay our obligations. Consequently, real or anticipated changes in our credit ratings will generally affect the market value of our debt securities. Our credit ratings, however, may not reflect the potential impact of risks related to market conditions generally or other factors discussed above on the market value of or trading market for the publicly issued debt securities.

RISKS RELATING TO THE AMERICAN CAPITAL ACQUISITION

Completion of the American Capital Acquisition will cause immediate dilution to our stockholders' voting interests in us and may cause immediate dilution to the net asset value per share of our common stock.

              Upon completion of the American Capital Acquisition, each share of American Capital Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the American Capital Acquisition will be converted into the right to receive, in accordance with the Merger Agreement, certain cash consideration as well as stock consideration from us at the exchange ratio of 0.483 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of our common stock (the "Exchange Ratio"). The Exchange Ratio of 0.483 of a share of our common stock for each share of American Capital Common Stock was fixed on May 23, 2016, the date of the signing of the Merger Agreement, and is not subject to adjustment based on changes in the trading price of our or American Capital Common Stock before the closing of the American Capital Acquisition. Based on the number of shares of American Capital Common Stock outstanding on the date of the Merger Agreement, this would result in approximately 110.8 million of our shares being exchanged for approximately 229.3 million outstanding American Capital shares, subject to adjustment in certain limited circumstances. If the American Capital Acquisition is completed, based on the number of our common shares issued and outstanding on the date hereof, our stockholders will own approximately 74% of the combined company's outstanding common stock and American Capital stockholders will own approximately 26% of the combined company's outstanding common stock. Consequently, our stockholders should expect to exercise less influence over the management and policies of the combined company following the American Capital Acquisition than they currently exercise over our management and policies.

              Any change in the market price of our common stock prior to completion of the American Capital Acquisition will affect the value of the stock portion of the American Capital Acquisition consideration that holders of American Capital Common Stock will receive upon completion of the American Capital Acquisition. The conversion of shares of American Capital Common Stock into shares of our common stock may result in the issuance of shares of our common stock at a price below our net asset value per share, which would result in dilution to the net asset value per share of our common stock.

              We cannot assure you that the American Capital Acquisition will be completed as scheduled, or at all. See "Pending American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the terms of the American

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Capital Acquisition and "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We may fail to complete the American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the risks associated with a failure to complete the American Capital Acquisition."

We may be unable to realize the benefits anticipated by the American Capital Acquisition and subsequent combination, including estimated cost savings and synergies, or it may take longer than anticipated to achieve such benefits.

              The realization of certain benefits anticipated as a result of the American Capital Acquisition will depend in part on the integration of American Capital's investment portfolio with our investment portfolio and the integration of American Capital's business with our investment portfolio or business. There can be no assurance that American Capital's investment portfolio or business can be operated profitably or integrated successfully into ours in a timely fashion or at all. The dedication of management resources to such integration may detract attention from the day-to-day business of the Company and there can be no assurance that there will not be substantial costs associated with the transition process or there will not be other material adverse effects as a result of these integration efforts. Such effects, including but not limited to, incurring unexpected costs or delays in connection with such integration and failure of American Capital's investment portfolio to perform as expected, could have a material adverse effect on the financial results of the combined company.

              In connection with the American Capital Acquisition, our investment adviser has agreed to (1) provide approximately $275 million of cash consideration, or $1.20 per share of American Capital Common Stock, payable to American Capital stockholders in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement at the effective time of the Mergers and (2) waive, for each of the first ten calendar quarters beginning with the first full calendar quarter after the closing of the American Capital Acquisition, the lesser of (A) $10 million of the income based fees and (B) the amount of income based fees for such quarter, in each case, to the extent earned and payable by us in such quarter pursuant to and as calculated under the investment advisory and management agreement.

              We also expect to achieve certain cost savings and synergies from the American Capital Acquisition when the two companies have fully integrated their portfolios. It is possible that our estimates of the potential cost savings and synergies could turn out to be incorrect. If the estimates turn out to be incorrect or we are not able to successfully combine the investment portfolios and businesses of the two companies, the anticipated cost savings and synergies may not be fully realized or realized at all or may take longer to realize than expected.

American Capital's and our inability to obtain consents with respect to certain certain investment funds managed by ACAM and its subsidiaries representing at least 75% of the aggregate assets under management of such funds as of March 31, 2016 could delay or prevent the completion of the American Capital Acquisition.

              Under the Merger Agreement, American Capital's and our obligation to complete the American Capital Acquisition is subject to the prior receipt of consents required to be obtained from certain investment funds managed by ACAM, with respect to aggregate assets under management of such consenting funds representing at least 75% of the aggregate assets under management of all such funds as of March 31, 2016 and approvals and consents required to be obtained from other third parties. Although American Capital and we expect that all such approvals and consents will be obtained and remain in effect and all conditions related to such consents will be satisfied, if they are not, the closing of the American Capital Acquisition could be significantly delayed or the American Capital Acquisition may not occur at all.

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The American Capital Acquisition may trigger certain "change of control" provisions and other restrictions in contracts of American Capital, the Company or their affiliates and the failure to obtain any required consents or waivers could adversely impact the combined company.

              Certain agreements of American Capital and the Company or their affiliates, including with respect to certain funds managed by ACAM and its affiliates, will or may require the consent or waiver of one or more counter-parties in connection with the American Capital Acquisition. The failure to obtain any such consent or waiver may permit such counter-parties to terminate, or otherwise increase their rights or the combined company's obligations under, any such agreement because the American Capital Acquisition may violate an anti-assignment, change of control or other provision relating to any of such transactions. If this happens, we may have to seek to replace such an agreement with a new agreement or seek an amendment to such agreement. American Capital and the Company cannot assure you that we will be able to replace or amend any such agreement on comparable terms or at all.

              If any such agreement is material, the failure to obtain consents, amendments or waivers under, or to replace on similar terms or at all, any of these agreements could adversely affect the financial performance or results of operations of the combined company following the American Capital Acquisition, including preventing the Company from operating a material part of American Capital's business.

              In addition, the completion of the American Capital Acquisition may violate, conflict with, result in a breach of any provision of or the loss of any benefit under, constitute a default (or an event that, with or without notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default) under, or result in the termination, cancellation, acceleration or other change of any right or obligation (including any payment obligation) under agreements of American Capital or the Company. Any such violation, conflict, breach, loss, default or other effect could, either individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the financial condition, results of operations, assets or business of the combined company following completion of the American Capital Acquisition.

Litigation filed against American Capital and its board of directors, the Company, and certain parties to the Merger Agreement, could prevent or delay the completion of the American Capital Acquisition or result in the payment of damages following completion of the American Capital Acquisition.

              American Capital and we are aware that four lawsuits have been filed by stockholders of American Capital challenging the American Capital Acquisition. Each of these suits is filed as a stockholder class action. These actions assert claims against the members of American Capital's board of directors and American Capital alleging that the Merger Agreement is the product of a flawed sales process and that American Capital's directors breached their fiduciary duties by facilitating the acquisition of American Capital by the Company for inadequate consideration and agreeing to lock up the American Capital Acquisition with deal protection devices that preclude other bidders from making a successful competing offer for American Capital. The lawsuits also claim that American Capital, ACAM, American Capital Mortgage Management, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of ACAM or "ACMM," American Capital Agency Corp. or "AGNC," the Company and certain of the Company's affiliates aided and abetted the directors' alleged breaches of fiduciary duties. The lawsuits demand, among other things, a preliminary and permanent injunction enjoining the American Capital Acquisition and rescinding the transaction or any part thereof that may be implemented. These legal proceedings could delay or prevent the American Capital Acquisition from becoming effective within the agreed upon timeframe or at all, and, if the American Capital Acquisition is completed, may be material to the results of operations, cash flows or financial condition of the combined company. It is possible that third parties could try to seek to impose liability against the combined company in connection with this matter or other potential legal proceedings.

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Termination of the Merger Agreement could negatively impact us.

              If the Merger Agreement is terminated, there may be various consequences, including:

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our business may have been adversely impacted by the failure to pursue other beneficial opportunities due to the focus of management on the American Capital Acquisition, without realizing any of the anticipated benefits of completing the American Capital Acquisition;



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the market price of our common stock might decline to the extent that the market price prior to termination reflects a market assumption that the American Capital Acquisition will be completed; and



•

the payment of any reverse termination fee, if required under the circumstances, could adversely affect our financial condition and liquidity.

Under certain circumstances, American Capital and the Company are obligated to pay each other a termination fee upon termination of the Merger Agreement.

              No assurance can be given that the American Capital Acquisition will be completed. The Merger Agreement provides for the payment by American Capital to us of a termination fee of $140 million if the Merger Agreement is terminated by American Capital or us under certain circumstances. If American Capital stockholders do not adopt the Merger Agreement and the Merger Agreement is terminated, American Capital will be required to reimburse us for our expenses up to $15 million, which amount will reduce, on a dollar for dollar basis, any termination fee that becomes payable by American Capital to us. In addition, the Merger Agreement provides for a payment by us to American Capital of a reverse termination fee of $140 million under certain other circumstances. If the issuance of the shares of our common stock to be issued pursuant to the Merger Agreement (including, if applicable, at a price below its then current net asset value per share) does not receive required stockholder and other Investment Company Act approvals, if any, and the Merger Agreement is terminated, we will be required to reimburse American Capital for its expenses up to $15 million, which amount will reduce, on a dollar for dollar basis, any termination fee that becomes payable by us to American Capital.

The market price of our common stock after the completion of the American Capital Acquisition may be affected by factors different from those affecting American Capital Common Stock or our common stock currently.

              Our business differs from that of American Capital in some respects and, accordingly, the results of operations of the combined company and the market price of our common stock after the completion of the American Capital Acquisition may be affected by factors different from those currently affecting our results of operations or American Capital's results of operations prior to the completion of the American Capital Acquisition.

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

              Some of the statements in this prospectus constitute forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or our future performance or financial condition. The forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements concerning:

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the American Capital Acquisition;



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our, or our portfolio companies', future business, operations, operating results or prospects;



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the return or impact of current and future investments;



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the impact of a protracted decline in the liquidity of credit markets on our business;



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the impact of fluctuations in interest rates on our business;



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the impact of changes in laws or regulations (including the interpretation thereof) governing our operations or the operations of our portfolio companies or the operations of our competitors;



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the valuation of our investments in portfolio companies, particularly those having no liquid trading market;



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our ability to recover unrealized losses;



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market conditions and our ability to access alternative debt markets and additional debt and equity capital;



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our contractual arrangements and relationships with third parties, including parties to our co-investment programs;



•

the general economy and its impact on the industries in which we invest;



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uncertainty surrounding the financial stability of the U.S., the EU and China;



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the social, geopolitical, financial, trade and legal implications of Brexit;



•

Middle East turmoil and the potential for fluctuating energy prices and its impact on the industries in which we invest;



•

the financial condition of and ability of our current and prospective portfolio companies to achieve their objectives;



•

our expected financings and investments;



•

our ability to successfully complete and integrate any acquisitions;



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the adequacy of our cash resources and working capital;



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the timing, form and amount of any dividend distributions;



•

the timing of cash flows, if any, from the operations of our portfolio companies; and



•

the ability of our investment adviser to locate suitable investments for us and to monitor and administer our investments.

              We use words such as "anticipates," "believes," "expects," "intends," "will," "should," "may" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements include these words. Our actual results and condition could differ materially from those implied or expressed in the forward-looking statements for any reason, including the factors set forth in "Risk Factors" and the other information included in this prospectus.

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              We have based the forward-looking statements included in this prospectus on information available to us on the date of this prospectus, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Although we undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we have filed or in the future may file with the SEC, including annual reports on Form 10-K, registration statements on Form N-2, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.

              The forward-looking statements in this prospectus are excluded from the safe harbor protection provided by Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act").

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UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

        Under the Merger Agreement, subject to the completion of the Mergers, American Capital stockholders will receive approximately $1.47 billion in cash from us, or $6.41 per share, plus 0.483 shares of Ares Capital common stock for each share of American Capital common stock, resulting in approximately 111.0 million shares of Ares Capital common stock issued in exchange for approximately 229.9 million shares of American Capital common stock. The purchase price is approximately $3.2 billion in total cash and stock consideration from us which is based upon a closing price of $15.14 per share of Ares Capital common stock as of July 31, 2016 and an implied value per share of American Capital common stock of $13.72. Additionally as part of the total merger consideration received by American Capital stockholders, Ares Capital Management will provide approximately $275 million of cash, or $1.20 per fully diluted share, to American Capital stockholders at closing. Separately, upon completion of the Mergers, each share of American Capital common stock will also be entitled to receive $2.45 per share in cash (representing an aggregate amount of approximately $563 million), which amount represents the per share cash consideration to be paid to American Capital as a result of the completion of the Mortgage Manager Sale, which was completed on July 1, 2016. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information has been derived from and should be read in conjunction with the historical consolidated financial statements and the related notes of both American Capital and the Company, which are included elsewhere in this prospectus. See "Index to Financial Statements."

        The following unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information and explanatory notes illustrate the effect of the Mergers on our financial position and results of operations based upon our and American Capital's respective historical financial positions and results of operations under the acquisition method of accounting with the Company treated as the acquirer.

        In accordance with GAAP, the acquired assets and assumed liabilities of American Capital will be recorded by us at their estimated fair values as of the effective time. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information of the Company and American Capital reflects the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2016 and the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated income statements for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2016 assumes the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions had been completed on June 30, 2016. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated statements of income for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015 assumes the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions had been completed on December 31, 2014.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information is presented for illustrative purposes only and does not necessarily indicate the results of operations or the combined financial position that would have resulted had the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions been completed at the beginning of the applicable period presented, nor the impact of potential expense efficiencies of the Mergers, certain potential asset dispositions and other factors. In addition, as explained in more detail in the accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information, the allocation of the pro forma purchase price reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information involves estimates, is subject to adjustment and may vary significantly from the actual purchase price allocation that will be recorded upon completion of the Mergers and the Other Pro Forma Transactions. Additionally, the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial data does not include any estimated net increase (decrease) in stockholders' equity resulting from operations or other asset sales and repayments that are not already reflected that may occur between June 30, 2016 and the completion of the Mergers.

        We cannot assure you that the American Capital Acquisition will be completed as scheduled, or at all. See "Pending American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the terms of the American Capital Acquisition and "Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We may fail to complete the American Capital Acquisition" for a description of the risks associated with a failure to complete the American Capital Acquisition.

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Ares Capital Corporation and Subsidiaries
Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
As of June 30, 2016
Unaudited
(in millions, except share and per share data)

   

See accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Ares Capital Corporation and Subsidiaries
Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016
Unaudited
(in millions, except share and per share data)

   

See accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Ares Capital Corporation and Subsidiaries
Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations
For the Year Ended December 31, 2015
Unaudited
(in millions, except share and per share data)

   

See accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Ares Capital Corporation and Subsidiaries

Pro Forma Schedule of Investments
Unaudited
As of June 30, 2016
(Dollar Amounts in Millions)

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