Totaling just $7.33 billion, sponsored middle market loan volume reached a six-year low in the first quarter — exceptionally weak even when viewed against the traditional seasonal pattern of lighter volume. On the heels of a sluggish year in 2015, Fifth Street remained cautious in its outlook for the new year; yet, volume dropped more precipitously than expected. Sponsored issuance was down 45% from Q4/15 and 31% on a year-over-year basis.