Capstead Mortgage Corporation functions as an American real estate investment trust (REIT), focusing its operations on a diverse portfolio of residential mortgage pass-through securities. Its primary investment strategy centers on acquiring short-duration adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) securities, specifically those issued and guaranteed by government-sponsored enterprises or agencies of the federal government. Holding the designation of a qualified REIT for federal income tax purposes, the company typically benefits from an exemption from federal corporate income taxes, provided it distributes a minimum of 90% of its taxable profits to its shareholders.