8-K: Horizon Technology Finance Corp. Changes Auditors

Horizon Technology Finance Corporation announced the dismissal of RSM US LLP and the appointment of Grant Thornton LLP as its new independent registered public accounting firm.

Summary

• Horizon Technology Finance Corporation (the Company) has dismissed RSM US LLP as its independent registered public accounting firm, effective May 13, 2026.
• RSM US LLP had served as the Company's auditor since 2008.
• The Company's Board of Directors, upon recommendation from the Audit Committee, appointed Grant Thornton LLP (GT) as the new independent registered public accounting firm.
• GT will audit the Company's consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026.
• There were no disagreements with RSM on accounting principles, financial statement disclosures, or auditing procedures during the past two fiscal years and up to the dismissal date.
• The Company has provided RSM with a copy of the Form 8-K filing and requested confirmation of the statements made regarding the dismissal.

Sentiment

Score: 5

Explanation: StockSavvy.ai views this as a neutral event, as auditor changes are routine and do not inherently signal positive or negative performance, provided there are no underlying issues.

Positives

• The transition of auditors was conducted without any reported disagreements on accounting principles or auditing procedures with the former auditor, RSM US LLP.
• The appointment of a new auditor, Grant Thornton LLP, is a standard procedure that can bring fresh perspectives to financial audits.

Future Outlook

Grant Thornton LLP will be responsible for auditing the Company's consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026.

Management Comments

• The Company provided RSM with a copy of this Form 8-K prior to its filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) and requested that RSM provide the Company with a letter addressed to the SEC stating whether it agrees with the above statements.

Industry Context

StockSavvy.ai notes that auditor changes are not uncommon in the financial services industry, often occurring after a significant period with a single firm or as part of a company's periodic review of its professional service providers. The transition to a new Big Four accounting firm like Grant Thornton LLP suggests a strategic move by Horizon Technology Finance Corporation.

Corporate Governance

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: The change in auditor is a routine governance matter and is not expected to have an immediate direct impact on share price, but ensures continued independent financial oversight.
• Creditors: Assurance of ongoing independent audits of financial statements is maintained.
• Employees: No direct impact expected from the change of auditor.

Next Steps

• Grant Thornton LLP will commence its audit of the Company's consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026.
• RSM US LLP will provide a letter to the SEC confirming its agreement with the Company's statements regarding the dismissal.

Key Dates

Keywords

auditor change, independent registered public accounting firm, Horizon Technology Finance Corporation, RSM US LLP, Grant Thornton LLP, SEC filing, Form 8-K, audit