Interim / Quarterly Report • Aug 25, 2021
Interim / Quarterly Report
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A high conviction global portfolio designed to grow capital and to deliver a strong and rising income
Murray International Trust PLC (the "Company") is an investment trust whose shares are traded on the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE Actuaries All-Share Index. Its Ordinary shares are listed on the premium segment of the London Stock Exchange. Some 25,000 of its shareholders are private investors. The Company offers the advantage of exposure to world markets by being invested in a diversified portfolio of international equities and fixed income securities.
The aim of the Company is to achieve an above average dividend yield, with long term growth in dividends and capital ahead of inflation, by investing principally in global equities.
The Company does not have a benchmark. Performance is reviewed against a reference index, the FTSE All World TR Index (the "Reference Index"). The constituents of the Reference Index do not closely match those of the Company's portfolio and so performance is likely to diverge.
The Company's Manager is Aberdeen Standard Fund Managers Limited ("ASFML", the "AIFM" or the "Manager") which has delegated the investment management of the Company to Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited ("AAML" or the "Investment Manager"). Both companies are wholly owned subsidiaries of abrdn plc (previously called Standard Life Aberdeen plc).
Shareholders who hold their shares on the Company's main register administered by Link Registrars may elect to receive all shareholder communications electronically. In order to instruct this, registered shareholders should contact Link Registrars, using the details on page 29.
Your Board strongly encourages shareholders to adopt electronic communications in order to reduce costs and lessen the environmental impact.
To find out more about Murray International Trust PLC, please visit: murray-intl.co.uk
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Highlights and Financial Calendar | 2 |
| Interim Board Report – Chairman's Statement | 4 |
| Interim Board Report – Manager's Review | 6 |
| Interim Board Report - Directors' Disclosures | 8 |
| Portfolio | |
| Ten Largest Investments | 9 |
| Investment Portfolio | 10 |
| Summary of Investment Changes / Net Assets | 13 |
| Investment Case Studies | 14 |
| Financial Statements (Unaudited) | |
| Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income | 15 |
| Condensed Statement of Financial Position | 16 |
| Condensed Statement of Changes in Equity | 17 |
| Condensed Statement of Cash Flows | 18 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 19 |
| General Information | |
| Alternative Performance Measures ("APMs") | 24 |
| Investor Information | 26 |
| Corporate Information | 29 |
A Alternative Performance Measure (see pages 24 and 25). B FTSE All World TR Index.
| Payment dates of quarterly dividends |
16 August 2021 |
|---|---|
| 19 November 2021 | |
| 18 February 2022 | |
| 13 May 2022 | |
| Financial year end | 31 December |
| Expected announcement of results for year ended 31 December 2021 |
March 2022 |
| Annual General Meeting (London) |
22 April 2022 |
| 30 June 2021 | 31 December 2020 | % change | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total assets less current liabilities (before deducting prior charges) | £1,746.9m | £1,661.6m | +5.1 |
| Equity shareholders' funds (Net Assets) | £1,547.2m | £1,461.8m | +5.8 |
| Share price – Ordinary share (mid market) | 1,182.0p | 1,130.0p | +4.6A |
| Net Asset Value per Ordinary share | 1,205.3p | 1,138.2p | +5.9A |
| Discount to Net Asset Value per Ordinary shareB | –1.9% | –0.7% | |
| Net gearingB | 12.7% | 13.4% | |
| Ongoing charges ratioB | 0.60% | 0.68% |
A The movement relates to capital only and does not take account of the reinvestment of dividends.
B Considered to be an Alternative Performance Measure. Further details can be found on pages 24 and 25.
It is with deep sadness that I have to report that Simon Fraser, the Chairman of the Company, died in the early hours of 9 August 2021 following a short illness. On an interim basis, the Directors have asked me, David Hardie, to chair the Company.
Simon joined the Board in May 2020 and was appointed Chairman in April 2021 and had already, in this short time, contributed significantly to the Company. Simon's experience, measured leadership, focus and good humour will be greatly missed by the Board and the management team alike. I should like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Board, shareholders and the Manager, to extend our sincerest condolences to Simon's family.
Global financial markets embraced the first few months of calendar 2021 with great optimism as vaccination programmes and easing of social mobility constraints gathered momentum. The message from most politicians and policymakers generally accentuated positives associated with clinical progress and strengthening economic activity following twelve tough months of pandemic-related disruptions. Such sentiment prevailed relatively unchallenged up to the end of the first quarter of the year, but thereafter serious doubts began to emerge. Renewed challenges from viral mutations sharply reversed declining infection trends, particularly in the developing world; increasing recognition of debilitating legacies from lengthy economic dislocations became more apparent as government debt burdens escalated; plus the emergence of rising inflationary pressures inflicted a sobering constraint on financial markets as the implications of potentially higher interest rates came sharply into focus. With stressed supply chains failing to keep up with surging global demand, the prevailing shortages caused widespread price increases in commodities, raw materials and services, reigniting concerns over inflation. By period end, investor confidence had cooled significantly.
The net asset value (NAV) total return, with net income reinvested, for the six months to 30 June 2021 was 8.7%. The Company does not have a benchmark but this compared with the 11.4% return of the Company's Reference Index (the FTSE All World TR Index). Over the six month period, the share price total return was 7.3%, reflecting a small widening of the discount at which the shares traded over the NAV. The Manager's Review on pages 6 and 7 contains more information about the drivers of performance in the period and the portfolio changes effected.
Two interim dividends of 12.0p (2020: 12.0p) have been declared in respect of the period to 30 June 2021. The first interim
dividend is payable on 16 August 2021 to shareholders on the register on 2 July 2021 and the second interim dividend will be paid on 19 November 2021 to shareholders on the register on 8 October 2021. As stated previously, the Board intends to maintain a progressive dividend policy given the Company's investment objective. This means that in some years revenue will be added to reserves while, in others, revenue may be taken from reserves to supplement earned revenue for that year to pay the annual dividend. Shareholders should not be surprised or concerned by either outcome as, over time, the Company will aim to pay out what the underlying portfolio earns. The Board currently intends in 2021 at least to match the dividend payout of 54.5p per share in 2020. It is expected that this will again entail some use of the significant revenue reserves built up over prior years for occasions such as the current pandemic. At the end of June 2021 the Balance Sheet revenue reserves amounted to £58.2m.
At the Annual General Meeting held on 23 April 2021 all resolutions were duly passed by shareholders. In addition to the usual business, shareholders approved the Board's proposals to adopt new Articles of Association which became effective from the date of the AGM. I should like to thank shareholders for their continuing support and forbearance given that, for the second year running, we were required to hold a purely functional AGM in light of the continuing Covid-19 pandemic. However, it was very pleasing indeed to be able to communicate with a significant number of existing and prospective shareholders during the Online Shareholder Presentation held in April 2021. Given the significant turnout and excellent level of interaction, this is something that the Board will consider repeating in the future, in addition to a physical AGM. The Board remains very keen to have an opportunity to meet shareholders and, subject to any legal requirements or constraints that may apply at the time, we hope to be able to return to holding a normal, in-person AGM next year, on 23 April 2022 in London.
The Board continues to believe that it is appropriate to seek to address temporary imbalances of supply and demand for the Company's shares which might otherwise result in a recurring material discount or premium. Subject to existing shareholder permissions (given at the last AGM) and prevailing market
Overview Portfolio Statements
conditions over time, the Board intends to continue to buy back shares and issue new shares (or sell shares from Treasury) if shares trade at a persistent significant discount to NAV (excluding income) or premium to NAV (including income). The Board believes that this process is in all shareholders' interests as it seeks to reduce volatility in the premium or discount to underlying NAV whilst also making a small positive contribution to the NAV. During the period under review, the Company has purchased for Treasury 69,709 Ordinary shares at a discount to the underlying exclusive of income NAV. At the latest practicable date, the NAV (excluding income) per share was 1164.2p and the share price was 1137.0p equating to a discount of 2.3% per Ordinary share.
In May 2021 the Company finalised new long-term fixed rate borrowings through the issuance of a £50 million 10 year Senior Unsecured Loan Note at an all-in rate of 2.24%. The proceeds of the issue were used to repay the Company's £50 million revolving credit facility with the Royal Bank of Scotland International Limited, London Branch that matured at that time. Under the terms of the Loan Note Agreement, up to an additional £150 million will also be available for drawdown by the Company for a five year period and the Board's current intention is to only use this additional amount to repay the Company's existing RBS debt as it falls due over the coming years.
The Company's total borrowings are £200m, which represents a net gearing level of 12.7% based on the Company's NAV at 30 June 2021.
The Board remains focused upon delivering value to shareholders and regularly reviews the OCR. During the review period it is pleasing to note that the OCR has reduced from 0.68% to 0.60% reflecting the increase in net assets over the period combined with the results of the Board's continuing focus on reducing administrative expenses. A full breakdown of the OCR calculation is provided on page 25.
This Half Yearly Report has been overshadowed by the death of Simon Fraser. As I reported above, on an interim basis, I have agreed to chair the Company and, in addition, Alexandra Mackesy has agreed to become Senior Independent Director and to chair the Remuneration Committee.
On 23 April 2021 Dr Kevin Carter and Ms Marcia Campbell retired from the Board. I should like to take this opportunity to reiterate the Board's sincere thanks to Kevin for his huge contribution to
the Company as Chairman and to reiterate our appreciation of the very significant contribution from Marcia as Audit and Risk Committee Chair.
As part of the Board's succession planning, on 1 May 2021 we welcomed Mr Nicholas Melhuish to the Board as an independent non executive Director. Nick brings a wealth of valuable global investment expertise to the Board having joined Corpus Christi College, Oxford as Fellow and Bursar in 2018 following a portfolio management career most recently as Head of Global Equities at Amundi SA. He is a non executive director of JPMorgan Claverhouse Investment Trust PLC, a trustee of the Trusthouse Charitable Foundation and a director and trustee of The London Clinic.
The Company remains well diversified in quality companies with real tangible assets, seeking to capitalise on the numerous growth and income investment opportunities that currently prevail
Notwithstanding the continuing battle against Covid-19 and its variants, there can be no doubt that a global economic recovery is underway with practically every country in the world projected to register a meaningful rebound in annual average GDP growth this year. Yet it must also be noted that rates of economic expansion are likely to prove extremely erratic on a quarterly basis and vary enormously between continents, countries and regional economies. For individual sectors, industries and companies, the path towards normality is unlikely to be straightforward. Both in terms of new patterns of consumption brought about through necessity during the past twelve months and production constraints associated with satisfying pent-up demand going forward from here, the pricing environment for goods and services is likely to remain volatile for some considerable time. How global financial markets ultimately cope should persistent inflation re-emerge remains to be seen, but the Company remains well diversified in quality companies with real tangible assets, seeking to capitalise on the numerous growth and income investment opportunities that currently prevail.
Interim Chairman 12 August 2021
Polarisation between investor sentiment and fundamental realities stretched new boundaries over the first six months of 2021 as financial markets constantly looked beyond the pandemic whilst global companies remain focused on the current challenging operating environment. This proved particularly pertinent for income investors. Improving global growth prospects and rising corporate profitability restored confidence that manifested itself in almost universally higher equity prices. But numerous companies remained very cautious when it came to returning improving cash flows to shareholders. Opting to reset dividends below pre-pandemic levels or to keep dividends unchanged until greater transparency emerges was commonplace against a backdrop of viral mutations and constantly changing directives from governments. Unlike previous periods of dividend recessions, the path to income recovery may take much longer for certain economic sectors and businesses this time around. A focus on strong corporate balance sheets, flexible investment parameters and diversified geographical exposures remains key for driving sustainable income growth in and beyond the current environment. All three continue to be rigorously implemented by the Manager in pursuit of your Company's investment objectives.
A focus on strong corporate balance sheets, flexible investment parameters and diversified geographical exposures remains key for driving sustainable income growth in and beyond the current environment
Whilst general perceptions towards Asia continued to emphasise the relative success of last year's rapidly enforced social isolation and economic support programmes in response to the pandemic, the path towards re-opening proved increasingly problematic over the period. Financial markets in China fretted over inflationary concerns and potentially higher interest rates as domestic consumption gathered momentum. Consequently portfolio exposure to China (circa 3%) struggled to make much progress, despite ongoing improvements in corporate operating conditions. Conversely, although, ironically, Taiwan registered its first meaningful outbreak in Covid cases since the pandemic
began, equity investors remained completely unfazed. Doubledigit returns from large portfolio holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor, GlobalWafers and Hon Hai Manufacturing were amongst some of the strongest contributors to overall total return. Elsewhere the tourist dependent economy of Thailand remained essentially paralysed, India continued to experience horrendous infection rates amidst severe logistical vaccination issues, whilst Indonesia remained hostage to oscillating pandemic pressures punctuated by only brief periods of respite. Investment returns from diversified holdings within these countries varied significantly, with strength in holdings such as Castrol India and Siam Commercial Bank being negated by weakness in positions such as Indocement and Lotus Retail. Yet overall balance sheets remained robust, cash flows continued to improve, and dividend growth tended to meet or exceed expectations. Although no additional investment to Asia was made during the period, current levels of diversified Asian exposure will be maintained for the attractive total return opportunities that very much still prevail.
Earnings, interest rates and inflation dictated the direction of North American bond and equity markets over the past six months. Corporate earnings unsurprisingly generally exceeded expectations given comparisons against lockdown conditions that prevailed a year ago. Interest rates remained relatively benign as policymakers pledged total commitment to reducing unemployment before tightening monetary policy. Patience was periodically tested by some eye-watering inflation numbers, but bond markets appeared relatively unperturbed and the ascent of equity markets continued. With numerous new record highs breached in North American indices, it proved no surprise that once again the region delivered the strongest returns in the world. Portfolio contributions mirrored such strength. Canadian gas pipeline operators TC Energy and Enbridge, fertilizer producer Nutrien, plus Schlumberger, Philip Morris and Cisco in the United States all delivered +20% in terms of total returns. Significant capital performance was also witnessed from CME Group, Intel and Broadcom, whilst the new holding in leading pharmaceutical company Bristol Myers also delivered solid total returns. Encouragingly, dividend growth from North American holdings yet again exceeded expectations as cash rich balance sheets support improving dividend distributions in the absence of suspended stock buy-back programs. Hopefully this trend is set to continue.
The economic and clinical backdrop to an area as broad and diverse as Europe was always going to vary enormously. And over the period, so it proved. Infection rates ebbed and flowed with sentiment oscillating accordingly, but for the most part economic conditions improved, corporate earnings exceeded expectations and equity markets moved higher. Amongst some of the best performing sectors were Industrials, Materials and Energy. Portfolio holdings in Swedish industrials Epiroc and Atlas Copco were exceptionally strong. Above average returns also came from UK commodity producers BHP Group and Royal Dutch Shell, plus French energy conglomerate Totalenergies. Somewhat surprisingly, Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche and recently introduced French drug company Sanofi also produced double digit total returns, confirmation that quality earnings and dividend growth did not go un-noticed in a market essentially focused on the "reopening trade". Portfolio laggards in Europe and the UK were few and far between, although Unilever, Enel and Telnor remained relatively out of favour in a market environment fuelled by earnings momentum.
The diverse and eclectic mix of six Latin American companies in the portfolio produced double-digit total returns over the period and delivered significant improvements in income generation. Brazilian mining giant Vale proved the standout performer in terms of capital and income returns, reflecting strong global ironore prices and increasing corporate commitment to ESG and shareholder returns. Recovering tourist traffic to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico boosted cash flow and profitability at Grupo Asur, with increasing confidence flowing through into reestablishing dividend payments later this year. Despite the region suffering from some of the highest infection rates in the world and the difficulties inherent in vaccinating a vast, densely populated continent, the response of more domestically focused holdings such as Kimberly Clark de Mexico, Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile in Chile and Telefonica Brazil to current operating challenges has been impressive. Patience will be required should the pandemic persist, but great scope exists for recovery in profits and dividends in these Latin American companies once some form of normality is restored.
Be it construction, transportation, commodities, digital infrastructure, property, factory automation or whatever, real assets producing tangible benefits have rarely appeared so relatively attractive
Whilst the world waits to witness the full extent of fiscal stimulus packages unleashed to combat the current pandemic, it is becoming increasingly clear that the dramatic policy response comes with a long term legacy, not only of enormous debt liabilities for future generations to service but also fundamental changes to policy objectives. Whereas previous global crises generally prompted non-interventionist policy solutions primarily based on monetary methods (lowering interest rates and providing easy credit), the pandemic has acted as a catalyst throughout the world for Governments to implement more interventionist fiscal methods, directly targeting issues such as climate, inequality and unemployment. Consequently monetary and fiscal policy has "converged" with central banks and Governments now irrevocably entwined, potentially signalling an end to decades of pure market doctrines and an era when prices were generally benign. In a world where the baton of growth is passed from "the market" to "the mandate", the investment environment may significantly change relative to the prevailing conditions of the past thirty years. Whether this ultimately extends to higher inflation and rising interest rates with higher taxes and increased regulation remains to be seen, but the longer term implications, should such a sustainable, paradigm shift in policy intentions prevail, cannot be ignored. Be it construction, transportation, commodities, digital infrastructure, property, factory automation or whatever, real assets producing tangible benefits have rarely appeared so relatively attractive. The portfolio remains focused and exposed to such businesses throughout the world in pursuit of delivering its long term investment objectives.
Bruce Stout Senior Investment Director Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited 12 August 2021
The Board has approved a matrix of the key risks that affect the business. The major financial risks associated with the Company are detailed in note 18 of the 2020 Annual Report and the other principal risks are summarised below. These risks represent the principal risks for the remaining six months of the year.
Details of the management of the risks and the Company's internal controls are disclosed on pages 27 and 28 of the 2020 Annual Report. They can be summarised into the following categories:
The Board also has a process in place to identify emerging risks. If any of these are deemed to be significant, these risks are categorised, rated and added to the Company's risk matrix.
The Board has reviewed the risks related to the Covid-19 pandemic. Covid-19 is continuing to impact day to day life as well as affect the value of the Company's investments due to the disruption of supply chains and demand for products and services, increased costs and potential cash flow issues creating uncertainty around future dividend payments. However, the Board notes the Manager's robust and disciplined investment process which continues to focus on long-term company fundamentals including balance sheet strength and deliverability of sustainable earnings growth. The Board, through the Manager, closely monitors all third party service arrangements and has not suffered any interruption to service. The Board therefore believes that the Manager and all other key third party service providers have in place appropriate business interruption plans and are able to maintain their service levels to the Company despite the uncertainty around the duration of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Following the expiry at the end of 2020 of the transitional arrangements relating to Brexit, some issues remain surrounding, inter alia, the certainty and/or timing of future withholding tax repayments and potential or actual impacts on trading and supply chains for certain portfolio companies. The Board will continue to monitor developments.
ASFML, a wholly owned subsidiary of abrdn plc (formerly Standard Life Aberdeen plc) acts as Alternative Investment Fund Manager, AAM acts as Investment Manager and Aberdeen Asset Management PLC acts as Company Secretary to the Company; details of the service and fee arrangements can be found in the 2020 Annual Report, a copy of which is available on the Company's website. Details of the transactions with the Manager including the fees payable to abrdn plc group companies are disclosed in note 11 of this Half Yearly Report.
In accordance with the Financial Reporting Council's Guidance on Risk Management, Internal Control and Related Financial and Business Reporting, the Directors have undertaken a rigorous review and consider that there are no material uncertainties and that the adoption of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate. This review included the additional risks relating to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and, where appropriate, action taken by the Manager and Company's service providers in relation to those risks. The Company's assets consist of a diverse portfolio of listed equities and bonds and the portfolio in most circumstances is realisable within a very short timescale. The Directors believe that the Company has adequate financial resources to continue its operational existence for the foreseeable future and at least 12 months from the date of this Half Yearly Report. Accordingly, the Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing these financial statements.
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Half Yearly Financial Report in accordance with applicable law and regulations. The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:
The Half Yearly Financial Report for the six months ended 30 June 2021 comprises the Half Yearly Board Report, the Directors' Responsibility Statement and a condensed set of Financial Statements.
For and on behalf of the Board of Murray International Trust PLC
David Hardie Interim Chairman 12 August 2021
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing GlobalWafers Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing is one of the largest integrated circuit manufacturers in the world. The company is involved in component design, manufacturing, assembly, testing and mass production of integrated circuits.
The company specialises in manufacturing silicon wafers for the global semiconductor industry. The company is vertically integrated, having production capability for wafer slicing, etching, diffusion and polishing. Finished products are sold to all leading technology companies worldwide.
Grupo Aeroporto del Sureste operates airports in Mexico. The company holds long-term concessions to manage airports in leading tourist resorts and major cities. Based in Chicago, USA CME Group
Unilever is a multinational consumer goods group which is focused in the areas of home care, beauty & personal care and food products.
operates a derivatives exchange that trades futures contracts and options, interest rates, stock indexes, foreign exchange and commodities.
Spun out from the Altria Group in 2008, Philip Morris International is one of the world's leading global tobacco companies. It manufactures and sells leading recognisable brands such as Marlboro, Parliament and Virginia Slims.
Korean based Samsung Electronics manufactures a wide range of consumer and industrial electronic equipment and products such as semiconductors, personal computers, monitors, peripherals, televisions and home appliances. The company also has significant global market share of the mobile phone handsets and telecommunication equipment.
Broadcom designs, develops and markets digital and analogue semiconductors. The company offers wireless components, storage adaptors, networking processors, switches, fibre optic modules and optical sensors. Broadcom markets its products worldwide.
Vale is one of the world's largest, fullyintegrated, natural resources companies. Based in Brazil, the company mines for precious metals and numerous other minerals.
Verizon Communications is an integrated telecommunications company based in New York that provides wire line voice and data services, wireless services, internet services and published directory information.
| Security | Country | Valuation £'000 |
Valuation % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing | Taiwan | 77,162 | 4.5 |
| GlobalWafers | Taiwan | 71,628 | 4.1 |
| Aeroporto del Sureste ADS | Mexico | 61,379 | 3.6 |
| CME Group | USA | 52,317 | 3.0 |
| Philip Morris International | USA | 50,210 | 2.9 |
| UnileverA | UK & Netherlands | 48,688 | 2.8 |
| Samsung Electronics | Korea | 46,965 | 2.7 |
| Vale do Rio Doce | Brazil | 43,962 | 2.5 |
| Broadcom Corporation | USA | 41,401 | 2.4 |
| Verizon Communications | USA | 40,559 | 2.4 |
| Top ten investments | 534,271 | 30.9 | |
| Oversea-Chinese Bank | Singapore | 38,547 | 2.2 |
| Tryg | Denmark | 34,633 | 2.0 |
| Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile | Chile | 34,239 | 2.0 |
| Epiroc | Sweden | 32,764 | 1.9 |
| TotalEnergies | France | 32,754 | 1.9 |
| AbbVie | USA | 32,603 | 1.9 |
| Telus | Canada | 32,409 | 1.9 |
| British American Tobacco | UK | 30,800 | 1.8 |
| Cisco Systems | USA | 30,692 | 1.8 |
| Taiwan Mobile | Taiwan | 30,475 | 1.7 |
| Top twenty investments | 864,187 | 50.0 | |
| BHP Group | Australia | 29,820 | 1.7 |
| Banco Bradesco | Brazil | 29,207 | 1.7 |
| Hon Hai Precision Industry | Taiwan | 29,098 | 1.7 |
| Atlas Copco | Sweden | 28,605 | 1.7 |
| Roche Holdings | Switzerland | 27,295 | 1.6 |
| Pepsico | USA | 26,802 | 1.5 |
| Sanofi | France | 26,542 | 1.5 |
| Kimberly Clark de Mexico | Mexico | 25,697 | 1.5 |
| TC Energy | Canada | 25,064 | 1.4 |
| Intel Corporation | USA | 24,374 | 1.4 |
| Top thirty investments | 1,136,691 | 65.7 |
A Holding comprises UK and Netherland securities, split £25,383,000 and £23,305,000 respectively.
| Security | Country | Valuation £'000 |
Valuation % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bristol-Myers Squibb | USA | 24,177 | 1.4 |
| Johnson & Johnson | USA | 23,849 | 1.4 |
| Zurich Insurance | Switzerland | 23,249 | 1.3 |
| Singapore Telecommunications | Singapore | 22,101 | 1.3 |
| Enbridge | Canada | 21,737 | 1.2 |
| Ping An Insurance | China | 21,267 | 1.2 |
| China Resources Land | China | 20,521 | 1.2 |
| China Vanke | China | 20,344 | 1.2 |
| Siam Commercial Bank | Thailand | 20,276 | 1.2 |
| Enel | Italy | 20,170 | 1.2 |
| Top forty investments | 1,354,382 | 78.3 | |
| Nutrien | Canada | 20,000 | 1.1 |
| Castrol India | India | 19,531 | 1.1 |
| Royal Dutch Shell | UK | 19,026 | 1.1 |
| Telkom Indonesia Persero | Indonesia | 18,871 | 1.1 |
| Schlumberger | USA | 18,531 | 1.1 |
| Telenor | Norway | 18,309 | 1.1 |
| Lotus Retail Growth | Thailand | 18,069 | 1.0 |
| Republic of South Africa 7% 28/02/31 | South Africa | 17,400 | 1.0 |
| Standard Chartered | UK | 15,411 | 0.9 |
| Republic of Indonesia 6.125% 15/05/28 | Indonesia | 14,962 | 0.9 |
| Top fifty investments | 1,534,492 | 88.7 | |
| America Movil Sab De 6.45% 05/12/22 | Mexico | 14,541 | 0.9 |
| United Mexican States 5.75% 05/03/26 | Mexico | 14,156 | 0.8 |
| Telefonica Brasil | Brazil | 13,967 | 0.8 |
| Alfa 6.875% 25/03/44 | Mexico | 13,344 | 0.8 |
| Petroleos Mexicanos 6.75% 21/09/47 | Mexico | 12,704 | 0.7 |
| Republic of Dominica 6.85% 27/01/45 | Dominican Republic | 12,278 | 0.7 |
| Republic of Indonesia 8.375% 15/03/34 | Indonesia | 11,040 | 0.7 |
| Vodafone Group | UK | 10,921 | 0.6 |
| MTN | South Africa | 10,464 | 0.6 |
| Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa | Indonesia | 10,284 | 0.6 |
| Top sixty investments | 1,658,191 | 95.9 |
| Security | Country | Valuation £'000 |
Valuation % |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Bank 7.95% 21/09/26 | India | 7,849 | 0.4 |
| Power Finance Corp 7.63% 14/08/26 | India | 7,721 | 0.4 |
| Petroleos Mexicanos 5.5% 27/06/44 | Mexico | 7,065 | 0.4 |
| Housing Dev Finance Corp 8.43% 04/03/25 | India | 5,263 | 0.3 |
| Power Finance Corp 8.2% 10/03/25 | India | 5,240 | 0.3 |
| Republic of Turkey 9% 24/07/24 | Turkey | 5,037 | 0.3 |
| Republic of Turkey 8% 12/03/25 | Turkey | 4,983 | 0.3 |
| ICICI Bank 7.6% 07/10/23 | India | 4,588 | 0.3 |
| ICICI Bank 7.42% 27/06/24 | India | 4,582 | 0.3 |
| Republic of Indonesia 10% 15/02/28 | Indonesia | 4,463 | 0.3 |
| Top seventy investments | 1,714,982 | 99.2 | |
| Santander 10.375% Non Cum Pref | UK | 4,071 | 0.2 |
| General Accident 7.875% Cum Irred Pref | UK | 3,976 | 0.2 |
| Republic of Ecuador 0.5% 31/07/35 | Ecuador | 3,193 | 0.2 |
| Republic of Ecuador 0.5% 31/07/30 | Ecuador | 2,421 | 0.2 |
| Republic of Ecuador 0.5% 31/07/40 | Ecuador | 675 | – |
| Republic of Ecuador 0.0% 31/07/30 | Ecuador | 245 | – |
| Total investments | 1,729,563 | 100.0 |
| Valuation | Appreciation/ | Net purchases/ |
Valuation | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 December 2020 | (depreciation) | (sales) | 30 June 2021 | |||
| £'000 | % | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | % | |
| Equities | ||||||
| United Kingdom | 73,372 | 4.5 | 3,040 | 25,129 | 101,541 | 5.9 |
| North America | 380,614 | 23.1 | 46,477 | 37,634 | 464,725 | 26.9 |
| Europe ex UK | 274,030 | 16.6 | 7,133 | (13,537) | 267,626 | 15.5 |
| Japan | 13,848 | 0.8 | (1,052) | (12,796) | – | – |
| Asia Pacific ex Japan | 489,281 | 29.7 | 29,744 | (24,066) | 494,959 | 28.6 |
| Latin America | 218,535 | 13.3 | 18,232 | (28,316) | 208,451 | 12.0 |
| Africa | 5,995 | 0.4 | 4,469 | – | 10,464 | 0.6 |
| 1,455,675 | 88.4 | 108,043 | (15,952) | 1,547,766 | 89.5 | |
| Preference shares | ||||||
| United Kingdom | 7,488 | 0.5 | 559 | – | 8,047 | 0.5 |
| 7,488 | 0.5 | 559 | – | 8,047 | 0.5 | |
| Fixed income | ||||||
| Europe ex UK | 13,182 | 0.8 | (3,152) | (10) | 10,020 | 0.6 |
| Asia Pacific ex Japan | 69,365 | 4.2 | (3,731) | 74 | 65,708 | 3.8 |
| Latin America | 83,621 | 5.1 | (3,147) | 148 | 80,622 | 4.6 |
| Africa | 17,074 | 1.0 | 248 | 78 | 17,400 | 1.0 |
| 183,242 | 11.1 | (9,782) | 290 | 173,750 | 10.0 | |
| Total investments | 1,646,405 | 100.0 | 98,820 | (15,662) | 1,729,563 | 100.0 |
| Valuation 30 June 2021 |
Valuation 31 December 2020 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £'000 | % | £'000 | % | |
| Equities | 1,547,766 | 100.1 | 1,455,675 | 99.6 |
| Preference shares | 8,047 | 0.5 | 7,488 | 0.5 |
| Fixed income | 173,750 | 11.2 | 183,242 | 12.6 |
| Other net assets | 17,373 | 1.1 | 15,227 | 1.0 |
| Prior chargesA | (199,750) | (12.9) | (199,805) | (13.7) |
| 1,547,186 | 100.0 | 1,461,827 | 100.0 |
A All short-term and long-term bank loans and loan notes.
Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, known as ASUR, is an owner and operator of several airports in Mexico and Colombia, including Cancun Airport. The Manager has held a longstanding engagement with the management of ASUR regarding the composition of the Board of Directors and in particular the length of tenure of several Directors. There has been an improvement in the last year and a half with limited Board refreshment and the Manager will continue to engage with the company on the matter and seek to have more open access to the Directors. ASUR has been a long term investment of the Company and should be a beneficiary as international travel restrictions loosen and tourism recovers.
Tryg is a Danish listed insurance company and is the second largest provider of general insurance services in Scandinavia. Tryg was part of a consortium which acquired RSA Insurance Group in the UK for just over £7 billion. The deal closed in June 2021 and Tryg has assumed control of RSA's Norwegian and Swedish operations, enhancing its already considerable scale in these markets. The Company first invested in Tryg in December 2020 and the Manager believes there are attractive cost synergies to be derived from this deal and that its scale and capital position will allow it to maintain attractive dividend payments to shareholders.
| Six months ended 30 June 2021 |
Six months ended 30 June 2020 |
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | Revenue £'000 |
Capital £'000 |
Total £'000 |
Revenue £'000 |
Capital £'000 |
Total £'000 |
|
| Gains/(losses) on investments | – | 98,820 | 98,820 | – | (192,730) | (192,730) | |
| Income | 2 | 36,906 | – | 36,906 | 35,561 | – | 35,561 |
| Investment management fees | 11 | (1,020) | (2,379) | (3,399) | (1,043) | (2,432) | (3,475) |
| Other expenses | (892) | – | (892) | (1,048) | – | (1,048) | |
| Currency losses | – | (831) | (831) | – | (2,468) | (2,468) | |
| Net return before finance costs and taxation | 34,994 | 95,610 | 130,604 | 33,470 | (197,630) | (164,160) | |
| Finance costs | (562) | (1,313) | (1,875) | (648) | (1,512) | (2,160) | |
| Return before taxation | 34,432 | 94,297 | 128,729 | 32,822 | (199,142) | (166,320) | |
| Taxation | 3 | (3,868) | 427 | (3,441) | (833) | 513 | (320) |
| Return attributable to equity shareholders | 30,564 | 94,724 | 125,288 | 31,989 | (198,629) | (166,640) | |
| Return per Ordinary share (pence) | 5 | 23.81 | 73.78 | 97.59 | 24.72 | (153.49) | (128.77) |
The total column of the Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income is the profit and loss account of the Company.
All revenue and capital items in the above statement derive from continuing operations.
| Notes | As at 30 June 2021 £'000 |
As at 31 December 2020 £'000 |
|---|---|---|
| Non-current assets | ||
| Investments at fair value through profit or loss | 1,729,563 | 1,646,405 |
| Current assets | ||
| Debtors | 16,624 | 14,410 |
| Cash and short-term deposits | 6,661 | 3,208 |
| 23,285 | 17,618 | |
| Creditors: amounts falling due within one year | ||
| Bank loans | (59,945) | (50,000) |
| Other creditors | (5,912) | (2,391) |
| (65,857) | (52,391) | |
| Net current liabilities | (42,572) | (34,773) |
| Total assets less current liabilities | 1,686,991 | 1,611,632 |
| Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year | ||
| Bank loans | (89,910) | (149,805) |
| 2.24% Senior Unsecured Loan Note 2031 | (49,895) | – |
| Net assets | 1,547,186 | 1,461,827 |
| Capital and reserves | ||
| Called-up share capital | 32,353 | 32,353 |
| Share premium account | 362,967 | 362,967 |
| Capital redemption reserve | 8,230 | 8,230 |
| Capital reserve | 1,085,469 | 991,513 |
| Revenue reserve | 58,167 | 66,764 |
| Equity shareholders' funds | 1,547,186 | 1,461,827 |
| Net asset value per Ordinary share (pence) 6 |
1,205.3 | 1,138.2 |
| Share capital £'000 |
Share premium account £'000 |
Capital redemption reserve £'000 |
Capital reserve £'000 |
Revenue reserve £'000 |
Total £'000 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at 31 December 2020 | 32,353 | 362,967 | 8,230 | 991,513 | 66,764 | 1,461,827 |
| Return after taxation | – | – | – | 94,724 | 30,564 | 125,288 |
| Dividends paid (see note 4) | – | – | – | – | (39,161) | (39,161) |
| Buyback of Ordinary shares to treasury | – | – | – | (768) | – | (768) |
| Balance at 30 June 2021 | 32,353 | 362,967 | 8,230 | 1,085,469 | 58,167 | 1,547,186 |
| Share capital £'000 |
Share premium account £'000 |
Capital redemption reserve £'000 |
Capital reserve £'000 |
Revenue reserve £'000 |
Total £'000 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at 31 December 2019 | 32,333 | 361,989 | 8,230 | 1,060,756 | 75,747 | 1,539,055 |
| Return after taxation | – | – | – | (198,629) | 31,989 | (166,640) |
| Dividends paid (see note 4) | – | – | – | – | (38,167) | (38,167) |
| Issue of new shares | 20 | 978 | – | – | – | 998 |
| Balance at 30 June 2020 | 32,353 | 362,967 | 8,230 | 862,127 | 69,569 | 1,335,246 |
| Notes | Six months ended 30 June 2021 £'000 |
Six months ended 30 June 2020 £'000 |
|---|---|---|
| Net return before finance costs and taxation | 130,604 | (164,160) |
| Increase in accrued expenses | 8 | 29 |
| Overseas withholding tax | (4,815) | (2,951) |
| Increase in accrued income | (1,110) | (700) |
| Interest paid | (1,676) | (2,254) |
| (Gains)/losses on investments | (98,820) | 192,730 |
| Currency losses | 831 | 2,468 |
| Decrease in other debtors | 22 | 9 |
| Corporation tax (paid)/received | (43) | 2,282 |
| Net cash from operating activities | 25,001 | 27,453 |
| Investing activities | ||
| Purchases of investments | (124,760) | (111,060) |
| Sales of investments | 144,078 | 97,376 |
| Net cash from/(used in) investing activities | 19,318 | (13,684) |
| Financing activities | ||
| Equity dividends paid 4 |
(39,161) | (38,167) |
| Issue of new Ordinary shares | – | 998 |
| Buyback of Ordinary shares to treasury | (768) | – |
| Loan repayment | (50,000) | (50,000) |
| Loan drawdown | – | 50,000 |
| Issue of 2.24% Senior Unsecured Loan Note 2031 | 49,894 | – |
| Net cash used in financing activities | (40,035) | (37,169) |
| Increase/(decrease) in cash | 4,284 | (23,400) |
| Analysis of changes in cash during the period | ||
| Opening balance | 3,208 | 30,040 |
| Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held | (831) | (2,468) |
| Increase/(decrease) in cash as above 8 |
4,284 | (23,400) |
| Closing balance | 6,661 | 4,172 |
1. Accounting policies – Basis of preparation. The condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 104 (Interim Financial Reporting) and with the Statement of Recommended Practice for 'Financial Statements of Investment Trust Companies and Venture Capital Trusts'. They have also been prepared on a going concern basis and on the assumption that approval as an investment trust will continue to be granted. Annual financial statements are prepared under Financial Reporting Standard 102.
The condensed interim financial statements have been prepared using the same accounting policies as the preceding annual financial statements.
| Six months ended 30 June 2021 |
Six months ended 30 June 2020 |
|
|---|---|---|
| £'000 | £'000 | |
| Income from investments | ||
| UK dividends | 3,186 | 2,591 |
| Overseas dividends | 27,568 | 23,900 |
| Overseas interest | 6,149 | 8,926 |
| 36,903 | 35,417 | |
| Other income | ||
| Deposit interest | 1 | 1 |
| Interest on corporation tax reclaim | 2 | 143 |
| 3 | 144 |
| Total income | 36,906 | 35,561 |
|---|---|---|
| -------------- | -------- | -------- |
3. Taxation. The taxation expense reflected in the Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income is based on the estimated annual tax rate expected for the full financial year. The estimated annual corporation tax rate used for the year to 31 December 2021 is 19%. This is in line with the current corporation tax rate.
The tax expense represents the sum of tax currently payable and deferred tax. Any tax payable is based on the taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net return as reported in the Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible.
| Six months ended 30 June 2021 £'000 |
Six months ended 30 June 2020 £'000 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Third interim dividend 2020 of 12.0p (2019 – 12.0p) | 15,413 | 15,520 |
| Final dividend 2020 of 18.5p (2019 – 17.5p) | 23,748 | 22,647 |
| 39,161 | 38,167 |
A first interim dividend for 2021 of 12.0p (2020 – 12.0p) will be paid on 16 August 2021 to shareholders on the register on 2 July 2021. The ex-dividend date was 1 July 2021.
A second interim dividend for 2021 of 12.0p (2020 – 12.0p) will be paid on 19 November 2021 to shareholders on the register on 8 October 2021. The ex-dividend date is 7 October 2021.
| Six months ended 30 June 2021 |
Six months ended 30 June 2020 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £'000 Per Ordinary share (p) | £'000 | Per Ordinary share (p) | ||
| Returns are based on the following figures: | ||||
| Revenue return | 30,564 | 23.81 | 31,989 | 24.72 |
| Capital return | 94,724 | 73.78 | (198,629) | (153.49) |
| Total return | 125,288 | 97.59 | (166,640) | (128.77) |
| Weighted average number of Ordinary shares | 128,384,846 | 129,410,437 |
6. Net asset value. The net asset value per share and the net asset value attributable to the Ordinary shares at the period end calculated in accordance with the Articles of Association were as follows:
| As at 30 June 2021 |
As at 31 December 2020 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Attributable net assets (£'000) | 1,547,186 | 1,461,827 |
| Number of Ordinary shares in issue (excluding Treasury) | 128,368,953 | 128,438,662 |
| Net asset value per share (pence) | 1,205.3 | 1,138.2 |
7. Transaction costs. During the period expenses were incurred in acquiring or disposing of investments classified as fair value through profit or loss. These have been expensed through capital and are included within gains/(losses) on investments in the Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income. The total costs were as follows:
| Six months ended | Six months ended | |
|---|---|---|
| 30 June 2021 | 30 June 2020 | |
| £'000 | £'000 | |
| Purchases | 280 | 75 |
| Sales | 154 | 79 |
| 434 | 154 |
| At | At | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 December | Currency | Cash | Non-cash | 30 June | |
| 2020 | differences | flows | movements | 2021 | |
| £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | |
| Cash and short term deposits | 3,208 | (831) | 4,284 | – | 6,661 |
| Debt due within one year | (50,000) | – | 50,000 | (59,945) | (59,945) |
| Debt due after more than one year | (149,805) | – | (49,894) | 59,894 | (139,805) |
| (196,597) | (831) | 4,390 | (51) | (193,089) | |
| At | At | ||||
| 31 December 2019 |
Currency differences |
Cash flows |
Non-cash movements |
30 June 2020 |
|
| £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | |
| Cash and short term deposits | 30,040 | (2,468) | (23,400) | – | 4,172 |
| Debt due within one year | (50,000) | – | – | – | (50,000) |
| Debt due after more than one year | (149,704) | – | – | (50) | (149,754) |
A statement reconciling the movement in net funds to the net cash flow has not been presented as there are no differences from the above analysis.
The financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value in the Condensed Statement of Financial Position are grouped into the fair value hierarchy at the reporting date as follows:
| As at 30 June 2021 | Note | Level 1 £'000 |
Level 2 £'000 |
Level 3 £'000 |
Total £'000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss | |||||
| Quoted equities | a) | 1,547,766 | – | – | 1,547,766 |
| Quoted preference shares | b) | – | 8,047 | – | 8,047 |
| Quoted bonds | b) | – | 173,750 | – | 173,750 |
| Total | 1,547,766 | 181,797 | – | 1,729,563 | |
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | ||
| As at 31 December 2020 | Note | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 | £'000 |
| Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss | |||||
| Quoted equities | a) | 1,455,675 | – | – | 1,455,675 |
| Quoted preference shares | b) | – | 7,488 | – | 7,488 |
| Quoted bonds | b) | – | 183,242 | – | 183,242 |
| Total | 1,455,675 | 190,730 | – | 1,646,405 |
a) Quoted equities. The fair value of the Company's investments in quoted equities has been determined by reference to their quoted bid prices at the reporting date. Quoted equities included in Fair Value Level 1 are actively traded on recognised stock exchanges.
The management fee is charged on net assets (i.e. excluding borrowings for investment purposes) averaged over the six previous quarters ('Net Assets'), on a tiered basis. The annual management fee is charged at 0.5% of Net Assets up to £1,200 million, and 0.425% of Net Assets above £1,200 million. A fee of 1.5% per annum is chargeable on the value of any unlisted investments. The investment management fee is chargeable 30% against revenue and 70% against realised capital reserves. During the period £3,399,000 (30 June 2020 – £3,475,000) of investment management fees was payable to the Manager, with an amount of £1,700,000 (30 June 2020 – £1,730,000) being payable to ASFML at the period end.
With effect from 1 January 2021, the Company and Manager agreed to terminate the arrangement of allocating £100,000 of the management fee to secretarial fees, which was chargeable 100% to revenue.
No fees are charged in the case of investments managed or advised by the Standard Life Aberdeen Group. The management agreement may be terminated by either party on the expiry of six months' written notice. On termination the Manager is entitled to receive fees which would otherwise have been due up to that date.
The promotional activities fee is based on a current annual amount of £400,000 (30 June 2020 – £400,000), payable quarterly in arrears. During the period £200,000 (30 June 2020 – £200,000) of fees was payable, with an amount of £100,000 (30 June 2020 – £200,000) being payable to ASFML at the period end.
The financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2021 and 30 June 2020 has not been audited or reviewed by the Company's auditor.
14. This Half-Yearly Financial Report was approved by the Board on 12 August 2021.
Alternative performance measures are numerical measures of the Company's current, historical or future performance, financial position or cash flows, other than financial measures defined or specified in the applicable financial framework. The Company's applicable financial framework includes FRS 102 and the AIC SORP. The Directors assess the Company's performance against a range of criteria which are viewed as particularly relevant for closed-end investment companies.
Total return. NAV and share price total returns show how the NAV and share price has performed over a period of time in percentage terms, taking into account both capital returns and dividends paid to shareholders. NAV total return involves investing the net dividend in the NAV of the Company with debt at fair value on the date on which that dividend goes ex-dividend. Share price total return involves reinvesting the net dividend in the share price of the Company on the date on which that dividend goes ex-dividend.
The tables below provide information relating to the NAV and share price of the Company on the dividend reinvestment dates during the six months ended 30 June 2021 and the year ended 31 December 2020.
| Dividend | Share | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Six months ended 30 June 2021 | rate | NAV | price |
| 31 December 2020 | N/A | 1,138.15p | 1,130.00p |
| 7 January 2021 | 12.00p | 1,182.45p | 1,172.00p |
| 1 April 2021 | 18.50p | 1,159.94p | 1,196.00p |
| 30 June 2021 | N/A | 1,205.26p | 1,182.00p |
| Total return | +8.7% | +7.3% |
| Dividend | Share | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year ended 31 December 2020 | rate | NAV | price |
| 31 December 2019 | N/A | 1,190.00p | 1,260.00p |
| 2 January 2020 | 12.00p | 1,192.52p | 1,260.00p |
| 2 April 2020 | 17.50p | 894.96p | 848.00p |
| 2 July 2020 | 12.00p | 1,027.56p | 996.00p |
| 1 October 2020 | 12.00p | 989.17p | 936.00p |
| 31 December 2020 | N/A | 1,138.15p | 1,130.00p |
| Total return | +0.9% | –5.3% |
Net gearing. Net gearing measures the total borrowings less cash and cash equivalents dividend by shareholders' funds, expressed as a percentage. Under AIC reporting guidance cash and cash equivalents includes amounts due to and from brokers at the period end as well as cash and cash equivalents.
| 30 June 2021 | 31 December 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Borrowings (£'000) | a | 199,750 | 199,805 |
| Cash (£'000) | b | 6,661 | 3,208 |
| Amounts due to brokers (£'000) | c | 3,367 | – |
| Amounts due from brokers (£'000) | d | – | – |
| Shareholders' funds (£'000) | e | 1,547,186 | 1,461,827 |
| Net gearing | (a-b+c-d)/e | 12.7% | 13.4% |
Discount to net asset value per Ordinary share. The discount is the amount by which the share price is lower than the net asset value per share, expressed as a percentage of the net asset value.
| 30 June 2021 | 31 December 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| NAV per Ordinary share (p) | a | 1205.3 | 1138.2 |
| Share price (p) | b | 1182.0 | 1130.0 |
| Discount | (b-a)/a | (1.9)% | (0.7)% |
Ongoing charges. The ongoing charges ratio has been calculated in accordance with guidance issued by the AIC as the total of investment management fees and administrative expenses and expressed as a percentage of the average net asset values with debt at fair value throughout the year. The ratio for 30 June 2021 is based on forecast ongoing charges for the year ending 31 December 2021.
| 30 June 2021 | 31 December 2020 | |
|---|---|---|
| Investment management fees (£'000) | 6,964 | 6,849 |
| Administrative expenses (£'000) | 1,872 | 1,966 |
| Less: non-recurring chargesA (£'000) | (48) | (81) |
| Ongoing charges (£'000) | 8,788 | 8,734 |
| Average net assets (£'000) | 1,522,844 | 1,346,488 |
| Ongoing charges ratio (excluding look-through costs) | 0.58% | 0.65% |
| Look-through costsB | 0.02% | 0.03% |
| Ongoing charges ratio (including look-through costs) | 0.60% | 0.68% |
A Professional services comprising tax and legal fees considered unlikely to recur. B Costs associated with holdings in collective investment schemes as defined by the committee of European Securities Regulators' guidelines on the methodology for the calculation of the ongoing charges figure, issued on 1 July 2010.
The ongoing charges ratio provided in the Company's Key Information Document is calculated in line with the PRIIPs regulations, which includes amongst other things, the cost of borrowings and transaction costs.
For internet users, detailed data on the Company (including price, performance information and a monthly fact sheet) is available from the Company's website (murray-intl.co.uk) and the TrustNet website (trustnet.co.uk). Alternatively you can call 0808 500 0040 (free when dialling from a UK landline) for investment company information.
https://twitter.com/AberdeenTrusts
https://www.linkedin.com/company/aberdeen-standardinvestment-trusts
The Board has been made aware by the Manager that some investors have received telephone calls from people purporting to work for the Manager, or third parties, who have offered to buy their investment trust shares. These may be scams which attempt to gain personal information with which to commit identity fraud or could be 'boiler room' scams where a payment from an investor is required to release the supposed payment for their shares. These callers do not work for the Manager and any third party making such offers has no link with the Manager. The Manager never makes these types of offers and does not 'cold-call' investors in this way. If investors have any doubt over the veracity of a caller, they should not offer any personal information, end the call and contact the Manager's investor services centre using the details provided below.
The annual tax-free personal allowance on dividend income is £2,000 for the 2021/2022 tax year. Above this amount, individuals will pay tax on their dividend income at a rate dependent on their income tax bracket and personal circumstances. The Company will provide registered shareholders with a confirmation of dividends paid by the Company and this should be included with any other dividend income received when calculating and reporting to HMRC total dividend income received. It is the shareholder's responsibility to include all dividend income when calculating any tax liability.
Investors can buy and sell shares in the Company directly through a stockbroker or indirectly through a lawyer, accountant or other professional adviser. Alternatively, for retail clients, shares can be bought directly through Aberdeen Standard's Investment Plan for Children, Aberdeen Standard's Investment Trust Share Plan and Investment Trust ISA.
Aberdeen Standard runs an Investment Plan for Children (the "Children's Plan") which covers a number of investment companies under its management including the Company. Anyone can invest in the Children's Plan, including parents, grandparents and family friends (subject to the eligibility criteria as stated within the terms and conditions). All investments are free of dealing charges on the initial purchase of shares, although investors will suffer the bid-offer spread, which can, on some occasions, be a significant amount. Lump sum investments start at £150 per trust, while regular savers may invest from £30 per month. Investors simply pay Government Stamp Duty (currently 0.5%) on all purchases. Selling costs are £10 + VAT. There is no restriction on how long an investor need invest in the Children's Plan, and regular savers can stop or suspend participation by instructing Aberdeen Standard in writing at any time. In common with other schemes of this type, all investments are held in nominee accounts. Investors have full voting and other rights of share ownership.
Aberdeen Standard runs a Share Plan (the "Plan") through which shares in the Company can be purchased. There are no dealing charges on the initial purchase of shares, although investors will suffer the bid-offer spread, which can, on some occasions, be a significant amount. Lump sum investments start at £250, while regular savers may invest from £100 per month. Investors simply pay Government Stamp Duty (currently 0.5%). Selling costs are £10 + VAT. There is no restriction on how long an investor need invest in a Plan, and regular savers can stop or suspend participation by instructing Aberdeen Standard in writing at any time. In common with other schemes of this type, all investments are held in nominee accounts. Investors have full voting and other rights of share ownership.
An investment of up to £20,000 can be made in the tax year 2021/2022. The annual ISA administration charge is £24 + VAT, calculated annually and applied on 31 March (or the last business day in March) and collected soon thereafter either by direct debit or, if there is no valid direct debit mandate in place, from the available cash in the Plan prior to the distribution or reinvestment of any income, or, where there is insufficient cash in the Plan, from the sale of investments held in the Plan. Investors have full voting and other rights of share ownership. Under current legislation, investments in ISAs can grow free of capital gains tax.
You can choose to transfer previous tax year investments to the Aberdeen Standard Investment Trust ISA which can be invested in the Company while retaining your ISA wrapper. The minimum lump sum for an ISA transfer is £1,000, subject to a minimum per trust of £250.
In the event of queries regarding their holdings of shares, lost certificates dividend payments, registered details, etc shareholders holding their shares in the Company directly should contact the registrars, Link Asset Services at 10th Floor, Central Square, 29 Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 4DL Tel: 0371 664 0300 (lines are open 9.00am-5.30pm Mon-Fri). Calls may be recorded and monitored randomly for security and training purposes. Changes of address must be notified to the registrars in writing.
Any general enquiries about the Company should be directed to the Company Secretary, Murray International Trust PLC, 1 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2LL or by email [email protected].
If you have any questions about an investment held through the Aberdeen Standard Investment Trust Share Plan, Stocks and Shares ISA or Investment Plan for Children, please telephone the Manager's Customer Services Department on 0808 500 0040. Alternatively, email [email protected] or write to Aberdeen Standard Investment Trusts, PO Box 11020, Chelmsford, Essex CM99 2DB.
For literature and application forms for the Company and the Aberdeen Standard range of investment trust products, please telephone: 0808 500 4000. For information on the Aberdeen Standard Investment Plan for Children, Share Plan, ISA or ISA Transfer please write to Aberdeen Standard Investment Trust Administration, PO Box 11020, Chelmsford, Essex, CM99 2DB or telephone the Manager's Customer Services Department on 0808 500 0040 (free from a UK landline). Terms and conditions for the Aberdeen Standard managed savings products can be found under the literature section of invtrusts.co.uk.
The KID relating to the Company and published by the Manager can be found in the 'Literature Library' section of the Company's website: murray-intl.co.uk.
There are a number of online dealing platforms for private investors that offer share dealing, ISAs and other means to invest in the Company. Real-time execution-only stockbroking services allow you to trade online, manage your portfolio and buy UK listed shares. These sites do not give advice. Some comparison websites also look at dealing rates and terms. Some well-known online providers, which can be found through internet search engines, include: AJ Bell Youinvest; Barclays Smart Investor; Charles Stanley Direct; Fidelity; Halifax Share Dealing; Hargreaves Lansdown; Interactive Investor; Novia; Transact; Standard Life.
If you have a large sum to invest, you may wish to contact a discretionary private client stockbroker. They can manage your entire portfolio of shares and will advise you on your investments. To find a private client stockbroker visit The Personal Investment Management and Financial Advice Association at pimfa.co.uk.
To find an adviser who recommends on investment trusts, visit unbiased.co.uk.
Before approaching a stockbroker, always check that they are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority:
Tel: 0800 111 6768 or at https://register.fca.org.uk/ or email: [email protected]
The Company's securities are intended for investors primarily in the UK (including retail investors), professional-advised private clients and institutional investors who are wanting to benefit from the growth prospects of global companies by investment in a relatively risk averse investment trust and who understand and are willing to accept the risks of exposure to equities. Investors should consider consulting a financial adviser who specialises in advising on the acquisition of shares and other securities before acquiring shares. Investors should be capable of evaluating the risks and merits of such an investment and should have sufficient resources to bear any loss that may result.
The Company currently conducts its affairs so that its securities can be recommended by a financial adviser to ordinary retail investors in accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) rules in relation to non-mainstream pooled investments (NMPIs) and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future. The Company's shares are excluded from the FCA's restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products because they are shares in an investment trust.
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to the future. Stock market and currency movements may cause the value of shares and the income from them to fall as well as rise and investors may not get back the amount they originally invested. As with all equity investments, the value of investment trusts purchased will immediately be reduced by the difference between the buying and selling prices of the shares, the market maker's spread. Investors should further bear in mind that the value of any tax relief will depend on the individual circumstances of the investor and that tax rates and reliefs, as well as the tax treatment of ISAs may be changed by future legislation.
The information above is issued and has been approved for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 by Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited, Bow Bells House, 1 Bread Street, London EC4M 9HH which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
D Hardie (Interim Chairman) A J Mackesy (Senior Independent Director) C Binyon N Melhuish (appointed 1 May 2021)
Aberdeen Asset Management PLC 1 George Street Edinburgh EH2 2LL
Registered in Scotland as an investment company Company Number SC006705
Website murray-intl.co.uk
The Chairman, the Senior Independent Director and the Company Secretary at the registered office of the Company e-mail: [email protected]
Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited
Customer Services Department: 0500 00 00 40 (free when dialling from a UK landline)
Aberdeen Standard Fund Managers Limited Bow Bells House 1 Bread Street London EC4M 9HH
Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited 150 Cheapside London EC2V 6ET
Link Group 10th Floor, Central Square 29 Wellington Street Leeds LS1 4DL
Tel: 0371 664 0300 (lines are open 9.00am-5.30pm Mon-Fri) Tel International: (+44 208 639 3399) e-mail: [email protected] Share portal: signalshares.com
The Bank of New York Mellon (International) Limited 1 Canada Square London E14 5AL
BDO LLP 55 Baker Street London W1U 7EU
United States Internal Revenue Service FATCA Registration Number (GIIN) 8Y8Z2N.99999.SL.826
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