CEF News: June 22-28
Aberdeen Emerging Markets Smaller Companies: Aberdeen Asset Management has failed to raise the £150 million it targeted for its Emerging Markets Smaller Companies Investment Trust and has therefore postponed its launch until later in the year. Aberdeen cites macroeconomic uncertainty in developing nations and unrest in the Middle East as the reason for not reaching its target. This is disappointing, not least because it’s the third closed-end fund launch to be postponed in recent weeks after Schroder Opus Commodity and Invesco Global Income were also put on hold.
Aberforth Geared Income (AGIT): The company is proposing to merge with Aberforth Geared Capital & Income Trust (AFHC). It will act as a rollover option for investors in AGIT, with part or all of the balance of the AGIT portfolio being acquired for cash. Currently AGIT is trading at a very small discount of 3.38% to its NAV.
Blue Planet European Financial (BLP): The Company has increased its stake to over 5% in the Blue Planet Financials Growth and Income Investment Trust (BPFU). Both funds are run by Kenneth Murray. This is the second time within a week that we've seen BLP investing in BPFU.
Northern Investors (NRI): The board has proposed a modification of the investment objective. The resolution will be proposed at a general meeting to be held on July 21. If successful, this will see the fund being wound up ahead of its scheduled continuation vote in 2012. This action has been prompted by one of the fund’s largest shareholders, Brookwell Ltd.
Prospect Japan (PJF): CG Asset Management has increased its stake by another 6% taking it to a total of 10%.
Saltus Euro Debt Strategies (SED): Laxey Partners Ltd has increased its stake in the fund of hedge funds to almost 12%. The fund currently trades at a 20% discount to its net asset value.