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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM N-CSR

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED MANAGEMENT

INVESTMENT COMPANIES

 

Investment Company Act file number  811-22884

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust


(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

One Corporate Center
Rye, New York 10580-1422


(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

 

John C. Ball
Gabelli Funds, LLC
One Corporate Center
Rye, New York 10580-1422


(Name and address of agent for service)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  1-800-422-3554

 

Date of fiscal year end: December 31

 

Date of reporting period: June 30, 2024

 

Form N-CSR is to be used by management investment companies to file reports with the Commission not later than 10 days after the transmission to stockholders of any report that is required to be transmitted to stockholders under Rule 30e-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30e-1). The Commission may use the information provided on Form N-CSR in its regulatory, disclosure review, inspection, and policymaking roles.

 

A registrant is required to disclose the information specified by Form N-CSR, and the Commission will make this information public. A registrant is not required to respond to the collection of information contained in Form N-CSR unless the Form displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (“OMB”) control number. Please direct comments concerning the accuracy of the information collection burden estimate and any suggestions for reducing the burden to Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549-1090. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.

 

(a)Include a copy of the report transmitted to stockholders pursuant to Rule 30e-1 under the Act (17 CFR 270.30e-1).

 

The Report to Shareholders is attached herewith.

 

 

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust

Semiannual Report — June 30, 2024

 

(Y)our Portfolio Management Team

 

       

Mario J. Gabelli, CFA

Chief Investment Officer

Christopher J. Marangi

Co-Chief Investment Officer

BA, Williams College

MBA, Columbia

Business School

Kevin V. Dreyer

Co-Chief Investment

Officer

BSE, University of

Pennsylvania

MBA, Columbia

Business School

Jeffrey J. Jonas, CFA

Portfolio Manager

BS, Boston College

 

To Our Shareholders,

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, the net asset value (NAV) total return of The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust (the Fund) was (0.9)%, compared with a total return of 2.5% for the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World SMID Cap Index. The total return for the Fund’s publicly traded shares was (1.1)%. The Fund’s NAV per share was $13.45, while the price of the publicly traded shares closed at $11.29 on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). See page 3 for additional performance information.

 

Enclosed are the financial statements, including the schedule of investments, as of June 30, 2024.

 

Investment Objective (Unaudited)

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust is a diversified, closed-end management investment company whose primary investment objective is long term growth of capital. Under normal market conditions, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its total assets in equity securities of companies with small or medium sized market capitalizations (“small-cap” and “mid-cap” companies, respectively), and, under normal market conditions, will invest at least 40% of its total assets in the equity securities of companies located outside the United States and in at least three countries.

 

 

 

 

As permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s annual and semiannual shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports. Instead, the reports will be made available on the Fund’s website (www.gabelli.com), and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report. If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. To elect to receive all future reports on paper free of charge, please contact your financial intermediary, or, if you invest directly with the Fund, you may call 800-422-3554 or send an email request to info@gabelli.com.

 

 

 

 

Performance Discussion (Unaudited)

 

The market rose to new highs in the first quarter of the year as strong economic growth more than offset stubbornly high inflation. Better economic growth and higher inflation have also driven up the prices of many commodities, and precious metals, and led to a stronger dollar, which hurts the value of our foreign holdings. While ongoing wars in Israel and the Ukraine are a humanitarian crisis, so far they have had minimal impact on the global economy. China continues to add stimulus to its economy and may be emerging from an extended slowdown. Many of our industrial holdings were again strong performers this quarter, boosted by government programs and changes to global trade and supply chains. This included fluid handling companies like Flowserve (+11%) and Sulzer (+19%), as well as infrastructure companies Astec (+18%), and Mueller Industries (+15%). Aerospace stocks continue to benefit from a global travel recovery and a shortage of both new and existing planes. Engine maker Rolls Royce (+41%) and parts and service suppliers FTAI Aviation (+46%) both rose during the quarter, while Kaman Corporation (+92%) agreed to be taken private by Arcline Investment Management for $46 per share or $1.8 billion. On the negative side, people are drinking less alcohol and trading down to lower brands, hurting Remy Cointreau (-21%) and Davide Campari (-11%).

 

The stock market continued to rise in the second quarter. Several central banks have started to cut rates, and there are also early signs that the economy is slowing, including in the areas of wage growth, employment, and retail sales. Economic growth is still positive, with no recession in sight, so it appears that the Federal Reserve is achieving its goal of a soft landing. We are also of course watching the upcoming presidential election closely, especially how it relates to future tax and spending policy in 2025 and 2026. Modine Manufacturing’s (1.4% of total investments as of June 30, 2024) cooling technology has found strong traction in the data center market, transforming the company from an auto supplier and earning it a premium multiple in the market. Bus manufacturer Blue Bird Corp. (0.2%) has successfully developed and is selling electric buses, taking advantage of significant government subsidy programs. Knife River (0.3%) has become a leading construction aggregates business after its successful spinoff last year from parent MDU Resources. Nutrition company Bellring Brands (0.5%) is carving out an important niche in protein supplements, which are increasingly important for people using new GLP-1 drugs for weight loss and diabetes. We also saw a robust merger and acquisition environment for medical device companies Silk Road Medical (0.1%) and Surmodics (0.1%), as well as waste company Stericycle (0.3%) and cellular provider United States Cellular (0.6%).

 

Thank you for your investment in The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust.

 

We appreciate your confidence and trust.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The views expressed reflect the opinions of the Fund's portfolio managers and Gabelli Funds, LLC, the Adviser, as of the date of this report and are subject to change without notice based on changes in market, economic, or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

2

 

 

Comparative Results

 

Average Annual Returns through June 30, 2024 (a) (Unaudited)

  

   Six
Months
  1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Since
Inception
(6/23/14)
The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust (GGZ)                
NAV Total Return (b)  (0.91)%  (0.15)%  (4.21)%  4.95%  4.75%  4.75%
Investment Total Return (c)  (1.09)  (0.37)  (5.33)  5.54   4.24   3.11 
MSCI World SMID Cap Index  2.53   10.09  (0.40)  7.05   6.41   6.41(d)

 

(a)Performance returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. Returns represent past performance and do not guarantee future results. Investment returns and the principal value of an investment will fluctuate. The Fund's use of leverage may magnify the volatility of net asset value changes versus funds that do not employ leverage. When shares are sold, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data presented. Visit www.gabelli. com for performance information as of the most recent month end. The MSCI World SMID Cap Index captures mid and small cap representation across developed markets. Dividends are considered reinvested. You cannot invest directly in an index.

(b)Total returns and average annual returns reflect changes in the NAV per share, reinvestment of distributions at NAV on the ex-dividend date, and adjustments for rights offerings and are net of expenses. Since inception return is based on an initial NAV of $12.00.

(c)Total returns and average annual returns reflect changes in closing market values on the NYSE, reinvestment of distributions, and adjustments for rights offerings. Since inception return is based on an initial offering price of $12.00.

(d)From June 30, 2014, the date closest to the Fund’s inception for which data are available.

 

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund before investing.

 

3

 

 

Summary of Portfolio Holdings (Unaudited)

 

The following table presents portfolio holdings as a percent of total investments as of June 30, 2024:

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust

 

Food and Beverage   12.4%  Cable and Satellite   1.5%
Entertainment   7.0%  U.S. Government Obligations   1.5%
Diversified Industrial   6.9%  Wireless Communications   1.4%
Health Care   5.9%  Telecommunications   1.4%
Equipment and Supplies   5.8%  Consumer Services   1.3%
Business Services   5.4%  Metals and Mining   1.3%
Machinery   4.4%  Energy and Utilities: Natural Gas   1.2%
Financial Services   4.1%  Environmental Services   1.1%
Consumer Products   3.7%  Energy and Utilities: Integrated   1.0%
Automotive   3.6%  Energy and Utilities: Electric   0.8%
Automotive: Parts and Accessories   3.2%  Energy and Utilities: Services   0.8%
Broadcasting   3.1%  Publishing   0.8%
Electronics   2.9%  Manufactured Housing and Recreational     
Hotels and Gaming   2.7%  Vehicles   0.5%
Retail   2.3%  Computer Software and Services   0.4%
Specialty Chemicals   2.0%  Real Estate   0.3%
Energy and Utilities: Water   2.0%  Energy and Utilities: Alternative Energy   0.2%
Aerospace   1.8%  Agriculture   0.2%
Transportation   1.7%  Educational Services   0.2%
Building and Construction   1.6%      100.0%
Aviation: Parts and Services   1.6%        

 

The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-PORT. Shareholders may obtain this information at www.gabelli.com or by calling the Fund at 800-GABELLI (800-422-3554). The Fund’s Form N-PORT is available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 800-SEC-0330.

 

Proxy Voting

 

The Fund files Form N-PX with its complete proxy voting record for the twelve months ended June 30, no later than August 31 of each year. A description of the Fund’s proxy voting policies, procedures, and how each Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, by (i) calling 800-GABELLI (800-422-3554); (ii) writing to The Gabelli Funds at One Corporate Center, Rye, NY 10580-1422; or (iii) visiting the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

 

4

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Schedule of Investments — June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 
Shares      Cost  

Market

Value

 
     COMMON STOCKS — 98.3%          
     Aerospace — 1.8%          
 14,000   Allient Inc.  $355,269   $353,780 
 1,000   L3Harris Technologies Inc.   79,530    224,580 
 290,000   Rolls-Royce Holdings plc†   649,927    1,674,579 
 1,500   Spirit AeroSystems Holdings Inc., Cl. A†   46,345    49,305 
 1,000   Triumph Group Inc.†   15,319    15,410 
         1,146,390    2,317,654 
                
     Agriculture — 0.2%          
 4,000   American Vanguard Corp.   58,658    34,400 
 12,000   Limoneira Co.   195,742    249,720 
         254,400    284,120 
                
     Automotive — 3.6%          
 5,800   Blue Bird Corp.†   121,595    312,330 
 4,000   Daimler Truck Holding AG   102,037    159,229 
 4,100   Ferrari NV   157,078    1,674,317 
 153,800   Iveco Group NV   1,080,600    1,724,536 
 23,000   Traton SE   400,775    752,503 
         1,862,085    4,622,915 
                
     Automotive: Parts and Accessories — 3.2%          
 50,013   Brembo NV   363,195    549,219 
 100,000   Dana Inc.   1,722,877    1,212,000 
 44,002   Garrett Motion Inc.†   217,851    377,977 
 1,200   Linamar Corp.   39,879    58,322 
 18,000   Modine Manufacturing Co.†   233,764    1,803,420 
 4,000   Monro Inc.   93,008    95,440 
         2,670,574    4,096,378 
                
     Aviation: Parts and Services — 1.6%          
 15,000   AAR Corp.†   478,730    1,090,500 
 1,000   Curtiss-Wright Corp.   69,929    270,980 
 12,500   Ducommun Inc.†   533,457    725,750 
         1,082,116    2,087,230 
                
     Broadcasting — 3.1%          
 60,000   Beasley Broadcast Group Inc., Cl. A†   148,271    39,450 
 6,000   Cogeco Inc.   297,962    211,396 
 50,000   Corus Entertainment Inc., Cl. B   84,640    5,482 
 480,000   Grupo Televisa SAB, ADR   2,582,575    1,329,600 
 250,000   ITV plc   445,922    254,400 
 500   Liberty Broadband Corp., Cl. A†   25,308    27,300 
 103   Liberty Broadband Corp., Cl. C†   4,934    5,647 
 188   Liberty Media Corp.-Liberty SiriusXM†   3,753    4,166 
 2,000   Liberty Media Corp.-Liberty SiriusXM, Cl. A†   55,998    44,300 
Shares      Cost  

Market

Value

 
 89,500   Sinclair Inc.  $2,267,027   $1,193,035 
 50,000   Sirius XM Holdings Inc.   229,000    141,500 
 53,000   TEGNA Inc.   933,167    738,820 
         7,078,557    3,995,096 
                
     Building and Construction — 1.6%          
 11,441   Arcosa Inc.   366,786    954,294 
 3,500   Bouygues SA   124,313    112,337 
 1,000   Carrier Global Corp.   19,630    63,080 
 1,500   IES Holdings Inc.†   26,263    208,995 
 6,000   Johnson Controls International plc   220,390    398,820 
 5,000   Knife River Corp.†   189,085    350,700 
         946,467    2,088,226 
                
     Business Services — 5.4%          
 35,500   Herc Holdings Inc.   1,317,601    4,731,795 
 68,500   JCDecaux SE†   1,557,123    1,347,625 
 13,500   Loomis AB   399,150    351,543 
 35,000   Rentokil Initial plc   264,421    204,051 
 4,000   Ströeer SE & Co. KGaA   86,799    256,385 
         3,625,094    6,891,399 
                
     Cable and Satellite — 1.5%          
 1,500   Cogeco Communications Inc.   77,745    56,566 
 48,000   Liberty Global Ltd., Cl. A†   1,035,197    836,640 
 41,000   Liberty Global Ltd., Cl. C†   982,148    731,850 
 30,000   Megacable Holdings SAB de CV   85,029    75,709 
 36,057   WideOpenWest Inc.†   336,425    195,069 
         2,516,544    1,895,834 
                
     Computer Software and Services — 0.4%          
 3,000   Donnelley Financial Solutions Inc.†   131,310    178,860 
 4,000   N-able Inc.†   55,138    60,920 
 5,000   PAR Technology Corp.†   172,612    235,450 
         359,060    475,230 
                
     Consumer Products — 3.7%          
 10,000   BellRing Brands Inc.†   220,300    571,400 
 14,000   Edgewell Personal Care Co.   468,457    562,660 
 33,000   Energizer Holdings Inc.   1,176,669    974,820 
 5,500   Essity AB, Cl. B   167,500    140,834 
 300   L'Oreal SA   48,139    131,743 
 11,500   Marine Products Corp.   81,517    116,150 
 15,000   Mattel Inc.†   175,675    243,900 
 45,000   Nintendo Co. Ltd., ADR   494,517    598,500 
 7,000   Salvatore Ferragamo SpA   121,294    59,261 
 32,000   Scandinavian Tobacco Group A/S   501,662    451,701 
 6,000   Shiseido Co. Ltd.   108,513    171,098 


 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

5

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Schedule of Investments (Continued) — June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 
Shares       Cost  

Market

Value

 
              
      COMMON STOCKS (Continued)          
      Consumer Products (Continued)          
 7,000    Spectrum Brands Holdings Inc.  $433,087   $601,510 
 2,000    Vista Outdoor Inc.†   50,084    75,300 
          4,047,414    4,698,877 
      Consumer Services — 1.3%          
 2,500    Allegion plc   236,967    295,375 
 11,500    Ashtead Group plc   214,712    767,852 
 500    Boyd Group Services Inc.   72,110    93,918 
 350    Cie de L'Odet SE   487,193    488,782 
          1,010,982    1,645,927 
      Diversified Industrial — 6.9%          
 103,500    Ampco-Pittsburgh Corp.†   461,411    79,695 
 34,700    Ardagh Group SA†   537,226    134,983 
 3,500    AZZ Inc.   120,481    270,375 
 11,900    Enpro Inc.   733,962    1,732,283 
 33,000    Greif Inc., Cl. A   1,637,158    1,896,510 
 9,500    Griffon Corp.   179,338    606,670 
 8,500     Jardine Matheson Holdings Ltd.            478,385    300,730 
 2,400    Moog Inc., Cl. A   143,518    401,520 
 25,500    Myers Industries Inc.   410,923    341,190 
 5,000    Smiths Group plc   95,104    107,764 
 22,000    Steel Partners Holdings LP†    304,830    819,031 
 8,500    Sulzer AG   524,084    1,175,024 
 40,000    Toray Industries Inc.   316,267    189,322 
 39,000    Tredegar Corp.   432,339    186,810 
 12,000    Trinity Industries Inc.   242,785    359,040 
 10,000    Velan Inc.   39,878    43,785 
 7,000    Wartsila OYJ Abp   87,437    134,940 
          6,745,126    8,779,672 
      Educational Services — 0.2%          
 13,900     Universal Technical Institute Inc.†   57,218    218,647 
                 
      Electronics — 2.9%          
 4,000    Flex Ltd.†   51,528    117,960 
 25,000    Mirion Technologies Inc.†   188,741    268,500 
 10,000    Resideo Technologies Inc.†    103,308    195,600 
 37,000    Sony Group Corp., ADR   1,659,815    3,143,150 
          2,003,392    3,725,210 
      Energy and Utilities: Alternative Energy — 0.2%          
 10,500    NextEra Energy Partners LP   351,173    290,220 
                 
      Energy and Utilities: Electric — 0.8%          
 45,000     Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp.           323,220    264,464 
 5,000    Algonquin Power & Utilities          
      Corp., New York   28,875    29,300 
Shares      Cost  

Market

Value

 
             
 7,500   Fortis Inc.  $222,079   $291,492 
 12,500   PNM Resources Inc.   587,291    462,000 
         1,161,465    1,047,256 
     Energy and Utilities: Integrated — 1.0%          
 21,000   Avista Corp.   881,264    726,810 
 3,700   Emera Inc.   154,204    123,464 
 8,000   Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.   223,060    72,160 
 100,000   Hera SpA   300,327    342,061 
         1,558,855    1,264,495 
     Energy and Utilities: Natural Gas — 1.2%          
 25,000   National Fuel Gas Co.   1,274,613    1,354,750 
 10,000   PrairieSky Royalty Ltd.   168,326    190,052 
         1,442,939    1,544,802 
                
     Energy and Utilities: Services — 0.8%          
 44,000   Dril-Quip Inc.†   1,094,388    818,400 
 200   Pineapple Energy Inc.†   55,157    272 
 1,500   Weatherford International plc†   82,270    183,675 
         1,231,815    1,002,347 
                
     Energy and Utilities: Water — 2.0%          
 70,000   Beijing Enterprises Water Group Ltd.   44,488    21,513 
 1,500   Consolidated Water Co. Ltd.   19,581    39,810 
 17,000   Mueller Water Products Inc., Cl. A   150,695    304,640 
 32,000   Primo Water Corp.   360,164    699,520 
 48,000   Severn Trent plc   1,331,381    1,444,108 
         1,906,309    2,509,591 
     Entertainment — 7.0%          
 30,000   Atlanta Braves Holdings Inc., Cl. A†   769,784    1,239,900 
 27,011   Atlanta Braves Holdings Inc., Cl. C†   629,413    1,065,314 
 227,000   Entain plc   2,250,016    1,807,789 
 2,000   GAN Ltd.†   6,090    2,950 
 16,000   Golden Entertainment Inc.   491,589    497,760 
 500   Liberty Media Corp.-Liberty Live, Cl. A†   18,604    18,755 
 47   Liberty Media Corp.-Liberty Live, Cl. C†   1,035    1,799 
 600   Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.†   19,081    20,538 
 4,600   Madison Square Garden Sports Corp.†   775,707    865,398 
 20,568   Manchester United plc, Cl. A†   336,954    331,968 
 113,750   Ollamani SAB†   366,100    259,209 
 40,500   Paramount Global, Cl. A   1,051,504    744,390 


 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

6

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Schedule of Investments (Continued) — June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 
Shares      Cost  

Market

Value

 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)          
     Entertainment (Continued)          
 6,000   Sphere Entertainment Co.†  $193,815   $210,360 
 16,000   Ubisoft Entertainment SA†   516,138    350,243 
 15,000   Universal Music Group NV   343,898    446,265 
 75,000   Vivendi SE   864,830    783,614 
 27,000   Warner Bros Discovery Inc.†   475,192    200,880 
         9,109,750    8,847,132 
     Environmental Services — 1.1%          
 18,000   Renewi plc   70,014    151,085 
 6,000   Stericycle Inc.†   376,340    348,780 
 20,000   TOMRA Systems ASA   117,808    238,644 
 3,700   Waste Connections Inc.   375,884    648,832 
         940,046    1,387,341 
     Equipment and Supplies — 5.8%          
 24,500   Commercial Vehicle Group Inc.†   228,014    120,050 
 1,200   Federal Signal Corp.   96,634    100,404 
 31,500   Flowserve Corp.   1,181,272    1,515,150 
 11,000   Graco Inc.   552,353    872,080 
 17,000   Interpump Group SpA   235,221    755,191 
 53,500   Mueller Industries Inc.   762,748    3,046,290 
 500   Snap-on Inc.   110,244    130,695 
 4,500   Watts Water Technologies Inc., Cl. A   422,438    825,165 
         3,588,924    7,365,025 
                
     Financial Services — 4.1%          
 750   Credit Acceptance Corp.†   292,515    386,010 
 6,200   EXOR NV   482,782    648,717 
 51,000   FinecoBank Banca Fineco SpA   336,185    760,289 
 100   First Citizens BancShares Inc., Cl. A   61,371    168,361 
 43,000   Flushing Financial Corp.   787,178    565,450 
 6,500   FTAI Aviation Ltd.   64,438    670,995 
 225,000   GAM Holding AG†   230,828    50,086 
 1,000   Groupe Bruxelles Lambert NV   82,544    71,379 
 5,000   I3 Verticals Inc., Cl. A†   117,902    110,400 
 7,500   Janus Henderson Group plc   222,715    252,825 
 6,000   Kinnevik AB, Cl. A   15,457    49,759 
 11,000   Kinnevik AB, Cl. B   97,506    90,240 
 1,800   PROG Holdings Inc.   52,138    62,424 
 70,000   Resona Holdings Inc.   336,109    463,143 
 22,500   Synovus Financial Corp.   807,483    904,275 
         3,987,151    5,254,353 
                
     Food and Beverage — 12.4%          
 3,500   Britvic plc   31,961    52,252 
Shares      Cost  

Market

 Value

 
 280   Chocoladefabriken Lindt &          
     Spruengli AG  $1,410,500   $3,269,186 
 70,000   ChromaDex Corp.†   109,302    191,100 
 3,000   Corby Spirit and Wine Ltd.,          
     Cl. A   32,090    28,442 
 140,000   Davide Campari-Milano NV   891,298    1,323,009 
 10,000   Fevertree Drinks plc   146,120    137,028 
 9,000   Fomento Economico          
     Mexicano SAB de CV,          
     ADR   680,678    968,850 
 1,000   Heineken Holding NV   68,070    78,875 
 39,000   ITO EN Ltd.   1,199,322    844,042 
 14,500   Kameda Seika Co. Ltd.   580,595    382,575 
 10,500   Kerry Group plc, Cl. A   893,272    850,120 
 195,000   Kikkoman Corp.   1,074,135    2,258,577 
 6,500   Luckin Coffee Inc., ADR†   48,632    137,150 
 93,000   Maple Leaf Foods Inc.   1,685,147    1,558,101 
 250,000   Nissin Foods Co. Ltd.   171,989    155,269 
 20,000   Nomad Foods Ltd.   369,356    329,600 
 4,000   Post Holdings Inc.†   176,856    416,640 
 190,000   Premier Foods plc   110,648    381,404 
 10,500   Remy Cointreau SA   1,139,582    875,984 
 900   Symrise AG   49,081    110,169 
 500   The Boston Beer Co. Inc.,          
     Cl. A†   140,545    152,525 
 8,000   The Hain Celestial Group          
     Inc.†   98,918    55,280 
 9,000   Treasury Wine Estates Ltd.    47,872    74,688 
 40,000   Tsingtao Brewery Co. Ltd.,          
     Cl. H   264,487    266,870 
 215,000   Vitasoy International          
     Holdings Ltd.   279,436    162,440 
 36,000   Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd.   915,429    643,632 
         12,615,321    15,703,808 
                
     Health Care — 5.7%          
 18,237   Avantor Inc.†   308,295    386,624 
 15,000   Bausch + Lomb Corp.†   241,092    217,800 
 32,000   Bausch Health Cos. Inc.†   312,903    223,040 
 600   Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.,          
     Cl. A†   176,718    163,866 
 150   Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.,          
     Cl. B†   35,257    40,949 
 6,500   Catalent Inc.†   454,363    365,495 
 3,000   Cerevel Therapeutics          
     Holdings Inc.†   126,898    122,670 
 500   Charles River Laboratories          
     International Inc.†   52,615    103,290 
 400   Chemed Corp.   162,808    217,032 
 5,000   Cutera Inc.†   73,446    7,550 
 1,000   DaVita Inc.†   71,709    138,570 
 12,000   DENTSPLY SIRONA Inc.   550,144    298,920 


 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

7

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Schedule of Investments (Continued) — June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 
Shares      Cost  

Market

 Value

 
             
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)          
     Health Care (Continued)          
 15,000   Evolent Health Inc., Cl. A†  $198,301   $286,800 
 5,000   Halozyme Therapeutics          
     Inc.†   182,224    261,800 
 4,400   Henry Schein Inc.†   310,158    282,040 
 1,750   ICU Medical Inc.†   321,152    207,813 
 5,000   Idorsia Ltd.†   63,344    11,275 
 20,000   InfuSystem Holdings Inc.†    195,470    136,600 
 3,000   Integer Holdings Corp.†   120,746    347,370 
 3,000   Lantheus Holdings Inc.†   193,618    240,870 
 12,000   Option Care Health Inc.†   143,014    332,400 
 10,000   Owens & Minor Inc.†   175,218    135,000 
 28,000   Patterson Cos. Inc.   631,785    675,360 
 35,000   Perrigo Co. plc   1,267,013    898,800 
 4,000   Silk Road Medical Inc.†   109,921    108,160 
 700   STERIS plc   86,397    153,678 
 3,000   SurModics Inc.†   71,948    126,120 
 400   Teladoc Health Inc.†   8,662    3,912 
 4,000   Tenet Healthcare Corp.†   243,346    532,120 
 1,600   The Cooper Companies Inc.   108,748    139,680 
 7,500   Treace Medical Concepts          
     Inc.†   124,400    49,875 
         7,121,713    7,215,479 
                
     Hotels and Gaming — 2.7%          
 3,000   Caesars Entertainment Inc.†   108,223    119,220 
 901   Flutter Entertainment plc†   80,235    164,750 
 26,000   Full House Resorts Inc.†   83,621    130,000 
 40,000   International Game          
     Technology plc   557,674    818,400 
 656,250   Mandarin Oriental          
     International Ltd.   1,132,805    1,135,312 
 9,000   MGM Resorts          
     International†   262,595    399,960 
 250,000   The Hongkong & Shanghai          
     Hotels Ltd.   337,742    185,042 
 5,500   Wynn Resorts Ltd.   582,328    492,250 
         3,145,223    3,444,934 
                
     Machinery — 4.4%          
 23,000   Astec Industries Inc.   903,128    682,180 
 369,000   CNH Industrial NV, New          
     York   2,710,093    3,737,970 
 2,400   Tennant Co.   145,956    236,256 
 13,000   Twin Disc Inc.   99,365    153,140 
 5,400   Xylem Inc.   339,104    732,402 
         4,197,646    5,541,948 
                
     Manufactured Housing and Recreational Vehicles — 0.5%
 1,900   Cavco Industries Inc.†   223,512    657,723 
Shares      Cost  

Market

Value

 
             
     Metals and Mining — 1.3%          
 1,500   ATI Inc.†  $23,134   $83,175 
 26,250   Cameco Corp.   292,306    1,291,500 
 4,000   Metallus Inc.†   34,761    81,080 
 35,000   Sierra Metals Inc.†   56,171    19,735 
 3,000   Wheaton Precious Metals          
     Corp.   132,192    157,260 
         538,564    1,632,750 
                
     Publishing — 0.8%          
 1,400   Graham Holdings Co., Cl. B   620,724    979,370 
 5,000   The E.W. Scripps Co., Cl. A†   69,135    15,700 
         689,859    995,070 
                
     Real Estate — 0.3%          
 20,000   Starwood Property Trust          
     Inc., REIT   510,432    378,800 
 30,000   Trinity Place Holdings Inc.†   68,548    3,510 
         578,980    382,310 
                
     Retail — 2.3%          
 5,000   AutoNation Inc.†   400,962    796,900 
 7,000   BBB Foods Inc., Cl. A†   132,950    167,020 
 530   Biglari Holdings Inc., Cl. A†   274,275    483,625 
 8,000   Camping World Holdings          
     Inc., Cl. A   312,130    142,880 
 22,000   Hertz Global Holdings Inc.,          
     New York†   174,514    77,660 
 6,000   MarineMax Inc.†   85,772    194,220 
 6,000   Movado Group Inc.   101,296    149,160 
 1,500   Penske Automotive Group          
     Inc.   55,315    223,530 
 10,000   PetIQ Inc.†   227,232    220,600 
 17,000   Pets at Home Group plc   105,703    63,481 
 9,000   Rush Enterprises Inc., Cl. B   173,446    353,160 
 120,000   Sun Art Retail Group Ltd.   108,725    22,896 
         2,152,320    2,895,132 
                
     Specialty Chemicals — 2.0%          
 4,500   Ashland Inc.   313,531    425,205 
 51,000   Element Solutions Inc.   563,375    1,383,120 
 13,547   Huntsman Corp.   368,167    308,465 
 2,500   Novonesis (Novozymes) B   116,841    152,967 
 14,000   SGL Carbon SE†   129,553    95,058 
 6,000   T. Hasegawa Co. Ltd.   114,881    124,930 
 2,000   Takasago International          
     Corp.   51,764    48,915 
 700   Treatt plc   3,479    3,801 
         1,661,591    2,542,461 
     Telecommunications — 1.4%          
 8,250   Eurotelesites AG†   29,206    32,337 
 5,000   Gogo Inc.†   19,504    48,100 


 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

8

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Schedule of Investments (Continued) — June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 
Shares      Cost  

Market

Value

 
             
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)          
     Telecommunications (Continued)          
 6,000   Hellenic          
     Telecommunications          
     Organization SA, ADR  $41,840   $42,660 
 100,000   Pharol SGPS SA†   34,665    4,734 
 33,000   Telekom Austria AG   181,370    329,381 
 15,800   Telephone and Data          
     Systems Inc.   158,153    327,534 
 9,000   Telesat Corp.†   87,294    81,900 
 100,000   Vodafone Group plc, ADR   1,199,874    887,000 
         1,751,906    1,753,646 
                
     Transportation — 1.7%          
 64,000   Bollore SE   316,096    375,604 
 17,000   FTAI Infrastructure Inc.   32,036    146,710 
 12,000   GATX Corp.   808,236    1,588,320 
         1,156,368    2,110,634 
                
     Wireless Communications — 1.4%          
 40,000   Millicom International          
     Cellular SA, SDR†   733,350    973,677 
 14,000   United States Cellular          
     Corp.†   407,285    781,480 
         1,140,635    1,755,157 
     TOTAL COMMON STOCKS   97,657,484    124,966,029 
                
     PREFERRED STOCKS — 0.2%          
     Health Care — 0.2%          
 10,000   XOMA Corp., Ser. A,          
     8.625%   204,436    255,000 
                
     Retail — 0.0%          
 450   Qurate Retail Inc., 8.000%,          
     03/15/31   39,466    18,923 
                
     TOTAL PREFERRED          
     STOCKS   243,902    273,923 
                
     RIGHTS — 0.0%          
     Energy and Utilities: Services — 0.0%          
 13,750   Pineapple Energy Inc.,          
     CVR†   0    14,509 
                
     Health Care — 0.0%          
 1,500   Tobira Therapeutics Inc.,          
     CVR†(a)   90    0 
     TOTAL RIGHTS   90    14,509 

Shares      Cost    

Market

Value

 
                    
     WARRANTS — 0.0%              
     Diversified Industrial — 0.0%              
 64,000   Ampco-Pittsburgh Corp.,              
     expire 08/01/25†  $43,719     $ 3,200  

 

Principal

Amount

                  
       U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS — 1.5%
$ 1,905,000    U.S. Treasury Bills,              
       5.281% to 5.311%††,              
       09/12/24 to 09/26/24   1,884,199       1,884,244  
                      
TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.0%  $99,829,394       127,141,905  
                      
Other Assets and Liabilities (Net)           275,892  
                      
PREFERRED SHARES              
(1,600,000 preferred shares outstanding)           (16,000,000 )
               
NET ASSETS — COMMON SHARES              
(8,282,314 common shares outstanding)         $ 111,417,797  
               
NET ASSET VALUE PER COMMON SHARE              
($111,417,797 ÷ 8,282,314 shares outstanding)         $ 13.45  

 

 

(a)Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Non-income producing security.

††Represents annualized yields at dates of purchase.

 

ADRAmerican Depositary Receipt

CVRContingent Value Right

REITReal Estate Investment Trust

SDRSwedish Depositary Receipt

 

Geographic Diversification  % of Total
Investments
 

Market

Value

 
North America  58.5%  $74,321,077 
Europe   30.4    38,650,833 
Japan   7.0    8,867,885 
Latin America   2.2    2,840,199 
Asia/Pacific   1.9    2,461,911 
Total Investments   100.0%  $127,141,905 


 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

9

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust

 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities 

June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 
Assets:    
Investments, at value (cost $99,829,394)  $127,141,905 
Cash   1,619 
Foreign currency, at value (cost $22,337)   22,356 
Receivable for investments sold   55,252 
Dividends and interest receivable   363,685 
Deferred offering expense   110,413 
Prepaid expenses   837 
Total Assets   127,696,067 
Liabilities:     
Distributions payable   16,178 
Payable for investments purchased   15,319 
Payable for Fund shares repurchased   3,560 
Payable for investment advisory fees   106,257 
Payable for payroll expenses   41,201 
Payable for accounting fees   7,500 
Series B Cumulative Preferred Shares, callable and mandatory redemption 09/26/25 (See Notes 2 and 6)   16,000,000 
Other accrued expenses   88,255 
Total Liabilities   16,278,270 
Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders  $111,417,797 
      
Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders Consist of:     
Paid-in capital  $87,463,463 
Total distributable earnings   23,954,334 
Net Assets  $111,417,797 
      
Net Asset Value per Common Share:      
($111,417,797 ÷ 8,282,314 shares outstanding at $0.001 par value; unlimited number of shares authorized)  $13.45 

Statement of Operations 

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 

Investment Income:    
Dividends (net of foreign withholding taxes of $74,954)  $1,502,211 
Interest   30,205 
Total Investment Income   1,532,416 
Expenses:     
Investment advisory fees   658,706 
Interest expense on preferred stock   396,991 
Payroll expenses   93,283 
Legal and audit fees   62,834 
Shareholder communications expenses   51,695 
Trustees’ fees   26,500 
Custodian fees   23,170 
Accounting fees   22,500 
Shareholder services fees   14,339 
Shelf offering expense   14,256 
Interest expense   712 
Miscellaneous expenses   36,482 
Total Expenses   1,401,468 
Less:     
Expenses paid indirectly by broker (See Note 5)   (1,337)
Net Expenses   1,400,131 
Net Investment Income   132,285 
Net Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Investments and Foreign Currency:     
Net realized gain on investments   1,929,189 
Net realized loss on foreign currency transactions   (1,801)
Net realized gain on investments and foreign currency transactions   1,927,388 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation:     
on investments   (3,224,838)
on foreign currency translations   (8,942)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments and foreign currency translations   (3,233,780)
Net Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Investments and Foreign Currency   (1,306,392)
Net Decrease in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders Resulting from Operations  $(1,174,107)


 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

10

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust

 

Statement of Changes in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders

 
   Six Months Ended     
   June 30, 2024   Year Ended
   (Unaudited)   December 31, 2023
Operations:                
Net investment income/(loss)    $132,285       $(454,844)
Net realized gain on investments and foreign currency transactions     1,927,388        3,551,509 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments and foreign                
currency translations     (3,233,780)       6,884,384 
                 
Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders                
Resulting from Operations     (1,174,107)       9,981,049 
                 
Distributions to Common Shareholders:                
Accumulated earnings     (1,414,717)*       (3,673,088)
Return of capital     (1,248,280)*       (1,844,763)
                 
Total Distributions to Common Shareholders     (2,662,997)       (5,517,851)
                 
Fund Share Transactions:                
Net decrease from repurchase of common shares     (1,241,085)       (4,078,983)
Net Decrease in Net Assets from Fund Share Transactions     (1,241,085)       (4,078,983)
                 
Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders     (5,078,189)       384,215 
                 
Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders:                
Beginning of year     116,495,986        116,111,771 
End of period    $111,417,797       $116,495,986 

 

 

*Based on year to date book income. Amounts are subject to change and recharacterization at year end.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

11

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust

 

Statement of Cash Flows 

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 (Unaudited)

 

 

Net decrease in net assets attributable to common shareholders resulting from operations   $(1,174,107)
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting from Operations to Net Cash from Operating     
Activities:     
Purchase of long term investment securities   (4,697,294)
Proceeds from sales of long term investment securities   9,521,272 
Net purchases of short term investment securities   (904,029)
Net realized gain on investments   (1,929,189)
Net change in unrealized depreciation on investments   3,224,838 
Net amortization of discount   (30,204)
Increase in receivable for investments sold   (52,504)
Increase in dividends and interest receivable   (32,154)
Decrease in deferred offering expense   14,256 
Increase in prepaid expenses   (837)
Increase in payable for investments purchased   15,319 
Decrease in payable for investment advisory fees   (3,978)
Decrease in payable for payroll expenses   (16,032)
Increase in payable for accounting fees   3,750 
Decrease in other accrued expenses   (12,260)
Net cash provided by operating activities   3,926,847 
      
Net decrease in net assets resulting from financing activities:     
Distributions to common shareholders   (2,658,375)
Repurchase of common shares   (1,237,525)
Decrease in payable to bank   (19,500)
Net cash used in financing activities   (3,915,400)
Net increase in cash   11,447 
Cash (including foreign currency):     
Beginning of year   12,528 
 End of period  23,975 
____________________     
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:     
Interest paid on preferred shares  $396,991 
Interest paid on bank overdrafts   712 
      
The following table provides a reconciliation of cash and foreign currency reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities that sum to the total of the same amount above at June 30, 2024:     
      
Foreign currency, at value  $22,356 
Cash   1,619 
   $23,975 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

12

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust

Financial Highlights

 

Selected data for a common share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each period:

 

   Six Months                     
   Ended June                     
   30, 2024   Year Ended December 31, 
   (Unaudited)   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Operating Performance:                              
Net asset value, beginning of year  $13.89   $13.26   $17.73   $15.17   $13.85   $12.41 
Net investment income/(loss)   0.01    (0.06)   (0.16)   (0.04)   (0.02)   0.11(a)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments and foreign currency transactions   (0.16)   1.24    (3.67)   3.79    2.09    2.01 
Total from investment operations   (0.15)   1.18    (3.83)   3.75    2.07    2.12 
Distributions to Preferred Shareholders: (b)                            
Net investment income               (0.02)       (0.05)
Net realized gain           (0.03)   (0.16)   (0.18)   (0.12)
Total distributions to preferred shareholders           (0.03)   (0.18)   (0.18)   (0.17)
Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets                              
                               
Attributable to Common Shareholders Resulting from Operations   (0.15)   1.18    (3.86)   3.57    1.89    1.95 
Distributions to Common Shareholders:                              
Net investment income   (0.06)*   (0.03)   (0.02)   (0.14)       (0.12)
Net realized gain   (0.11)*   (0.40)   (0.62)   (0.90)   (0.05)   (0.28)
Return of capital   (0.15)*   (0.21)           (0.59)   (0.16)
                               
Total distributions to common shareholders   (0.32)   (0.64)   (0.64)   (1.04)   (0.64)   (0.56)
Fund Share Transactions:                              
Increase in net asset value from repurchase of common shares   0.03    0.09    0.03    0.03    0.07    0.05 
Total Fund share transactions   0.03    0.09    0.03    0.03    0.07    0.05 
                               
Net Asset Value Attributable to Common Shareholders, End of Period  $13.45   $13.89   $13.26   $17.73   $15.17   $13.85 
NAV total return †   (0.91)%   9.77%   (21.64)%   23.90%   16.01%   16.27%
Market value, end of period  $11.29   $11.73   $11.22   $15.90   $13.05   $11.84 
Investment total return ††   (1.09)%   10.61%   (25.42)%   30.20%   17.99%   26.77%
                               
Ratios to Average Net Assets and Supplemental Data:                              
Net assets including liquidation value of preferred shares, end of period (in 000’s).  $127,418   $132,496   $148,112   $228,411   $167,684   $160,989 
Net assets attributable to common shares, end of period (in 000’s)  $111,418   $116,496   $116,112   $158,411   $137,684   $130,989 
Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets attributable to common shares before preferred share distributions   0.23%(c)   (0.39)%   (1.11)%   (0.20)%   (0.18)%   0.83%(a)
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets attributable to common shares (d)(e)   2.39%(c)   2.91%   3.17%   1.78%   1.82%   1.73%
Portfolio turnover rate   4%   7%   9%   23%   14%   35%

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

13

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Financial Highlights (Continued)

 

Selected data for a common share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each period:

                        
   Six Months
Ended June
30, 2024
   Year Ended December 31, 
   (Unaudited)   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
5.450% Series A Cumulative Preferred Shares (f)                        
Liquidation value, end of period (in 000’s)              $30,000   $30,000   $30,000 
Total shares outstanding (in 000’s)               1,200    1,200    1,200 
Liquidation preference per share              $25.00   $25.00   $25.00 
Average market value (g)              $25.86   $25.62   $25.51 
Asset coverage per share (h)              $81.58   $139.74   $134.16 
5.200% Series B Cumulative Preferred Shares (i)                              
Liquidation value, end of period (in 000’s)  $16,000   $16,000   $32,000   $40,000         
Total shares outstanding (in 000’s)   1,600    1,600    3,200    4,000         
Liquidation preference per share  $10.00   $10.00   $10.00   $10.00         
Liquidation value  $10.00   $10.00   $10.00   $10.00         
Asset coverage per share (h)  $79.64   $82.81   $46.28   $32.63         
Asset Coverage (j)   796%   828%   463%   326%   559%   537%

 

 

Based on net asset value per share, adjusted for reinvestment of distributions at the net asset value per share on the ex-dividend dates and adjustments for the rights offering. Total return for a period of less than one year is not annualized.

††Based on market value per share, adjusted for reinvestment of distributions at prices determined under the Fund’s dividend reinvestment plan and adjustments for the rights offering. Total return for a period of less than one year is not annualized.

*Based on year to date book income. Amounts are subject to change and recharacterization at year end.

(a)Includes income resulting from special dividends for the year ended December 31, 2019. Without these dividends, the per share income amount would have been $0.06 and the net investment income ratio would have been 0.46%.

(b)Calculated based on average common shares outstanding on the record dates throughout the periods.

(c)Annualized.

(d)The Fund received credits from a designated broker who agreed to pay certain Fund operating expenses. For all periods presented, there was no impact on the expense ratios.

(e)Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets including liquidation value of preferred shares for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019 would have been 2.13%, 2.35%, 2.37%, 1.44%, 1.44%, and 1.40%, respectively.

(f)The Fund redeemed and retired all its outstanding Series A Preferred Shares on February 28, 2022.

(g)Based on weekly prices.

(h)Asset coverage per share is calculated by combining all series of preferred shares.

(i)The Series B Preferred was issued November 1, 2021.

(j)Asset coverage is calculated by combining all series of preferred shares.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

14

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

1. Organization. The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust (the Fund) was organized on August 19, 2013 as a Delaware statutory trust. The Fund is a diversified closed-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act). The Fund commenced investment operations on June 23, 2014.

 

The Fund’s investment objective is to seek long term growth of capital. The Fund will attempt to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its total assets in equity securities (such as common stock and preferred stock) of companies with small or medium sized market capitalizations (small cap and mid cap companies, respectively) and at least 40% of its total assets in the equity securities of companies located outside the U.S. and in at least three countries.

 

2. Significant Accounting Policies. As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance, which is part of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) that may require the use of management estimates and assumptions in the preparation of its financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements.

 

Security Valuation. Portfolio securities listed or traded on a nationally recognized securities exchange or traded in the U.S. over-the-counter market for which market quotations are readily available are valued at the last quoted sale price or a market’s official closing price as of the close of business on the day the securities are being valued. If there were no sales that day, the security is valued at the average of the closing bid and asked prices or, if there were no asked prices quoted on that day, then the security is valued at the closing bid price on that day. If no bid or asked prices are quoted on such day, the security is valued at the most recently available price or, if the Board of Trustees (the Board) so determines, by such other method as the Board shall determine in good faith to reflect its fair market value. Portfolio securities traded on more than one national securities exchange or market are valued according to the broadest and most representative market, as determined by Gabelli Funds, LLC (the Adviser).

 

Portfolio securities primarily traded on a foreign market are generally valued at the preceding closing values of such securities on the relevant market, but may be fair valued pursuant to procedures established by the Board if market conditions change significantly after the close of the foreign market, but prior to the close of business on the day the securities are being valued. Debt obligations for which market quotations are readily available are valued at the average of the latest bid and asked prices. If there were no asked prices quoted on such day, the securities are valued using the closing bid price, unless the Board determines such amount does not reflect the securities’ fair value, in which case these securities will be fair valued as determined by the Board. Certain securities are valued principally using dealer quotations. Futures contracts are valued at the closing settlement price of the exchange or board of trade on which the applicable contract is traded. OTC futures and options on futures for which market quotations are readily available will be valued by quotations received from a pricing service or, if no quotations are available from a pricing service, by quotations obtained from one or more dealers in the instrument in question by the Adviser.

 

Securities and assets for which market quotations are not readily available are fair valued as determined by the Board. Fair valuation methodologies and procedures may include, but are not limited to: analysis and review of available financial and non-financial information about the company; comparisons with the valuation and changes in valuation of similar securities, including a comparison of foreign securities with the equivalent U.S.

 

15

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

dollar value American Depositary Receipt securities at the close of the U.S. exchange; and evaluation of any other information that could be indicative of the value of the security.

 

The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

Level 1 — quoted prices in active markets for identical securities;

Level 2 — other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.); and

Level 3 — significant unobservable inputs (including the Board’s determinations as to the fair value of investments).

 

A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input both individually and in the aggregate that is significant to the fair value measurement. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The summary of the Fund’s investments in securities by inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of June 30, 2024 is as follows:

 

   Valuation Inputs     
       Level 2 Other   Level 3 Significant     
   Level 1   Significant   Unobservable   Total Market Value 
   Quoted Prices   Observable Inputs   Inputs (a)   at 06/30/24 
INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES:                    
ASSETS (Market Value):                    
Common Stocks:                    
Diversified Industrial  $8,644,689   $134,983       $8,779,672 
Health Care   7,174,530    40,949        7,215,479 
Other Industries (b)   108,970,878            108,970,878 
Total Common Stocks   124,790,097    175,932        124,966,029 
Preferred Stocks (b)   273,923            273,923 
Rights (b)       14,509   $0    14,509 
Warrants (b)   3,200            3,200 
U.S. Government Obligations       1,884,244        1,884,244 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES – ASSETS  $125,067,220   $2,074,685   $0   $127,141,905 

 

 

(a)The inputs for this security are not readily available and are derived based on the judgment of the Adviser according to procedures approved by the Board.
(b)Please refer to the Schedule of Investments for the industry classifications of these portfolio holdings.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2024 the Fund did not have transfers into or out of Level 3. The Fund’s policy is to recognize transfers among Levels as of the beginning of the reporting period.

 

Additional Information to Evaluate Qualitative Information.

 

General. The Fund uses recognized industry pricing services – approved by the Board and unaffiliated with the Adviser – to value most of its securities, and uses broker quotes provided by market makers of securities not valued by these and other recognized pricing sources. Several different pricing feeds are received to value domestic equity securities, international equity securities, preferred equity securities, and fixed income securities. The data within these feeds are ultimately sourced from major stock exchanges and trading systems where these securities trade. The prices supplied by external sources are checked by obtaining quotations

 

16

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

or actual transaction prices from market participants. If a price obtained from the pricing source is deemed unreliable, prices will be sought from another pricing service or from a broker/dealer that trades that security or similar securities.

 

Fair Valuation. Fair valued securities may be common or preferred equities, warrants, options, rights, or fixed income obligations. Where appropriate, Level 3 securities are those for which market quotations are not available, such as securities not traded for several days, or for which current bids are not available, or which are restricted as to transfer. When fair valuing a security, factors to consider include recent prices of comparable securities that are publicly traded, reliable prices of securities not publicly traded, the use of valuation models, current analyst reports, valuing the income or cash flow of the issuer, or cost if the preceding factors do not apply. A significant change in the unobservable inputs could result in a lower or higher value in Level 3 securities. The circumstances of Level 3 securities are frequently monitored to determine if fair valuation measures continue to apply.

 

The Adviser reports quarterly to the Board the results of the application of fair valuation policies and procedures. These may include backtesting the prices realized in subsequent trades of these fair valued securities to fair values previously recognized.

 

Series B Cumulative Preferred Stock. For financial reporting purposes only, the liquidation value of preferred stock that has a mandatory call date is classified as a liability within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and the dividends paid on this preferred stock are included as a component of “Interest expense on preferred stock” within the Statement of Operations. Offering costs are amortized over the life of the preferred stock.

 

Foreign Currency Translations. The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Foreign currencies, investments, and other assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at current exchange rates. Purchases and sales of investment securities, income, and expenses are translated at the exchange rate prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Unrealized gains and losses that result from changes in foreign exchange rates and/or changes in market prices of securities have been included in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments and foreign currency translations. Net realized foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include foreign currency gains and losses between trade date and settlement date on investment securities transactions, foreign currency transactions, and the difference between the amounts of interest and dividends recorded on the books of the Fund and the amounts actually received. The portion of foreign currency gains and losses related to fluctuation in exchange rates between the initial purchase trade date and subsequent sale trade date is included in realized gain/(loss) on investments.

 

Foreign Securities. The Fund may directly purchase securities of foreign issuers. Investing in securities of foreign issuers involves special risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. The risks include possible revaluation of currencies, the inability to repatriate funds, less complete financial information about companies, and possible future adverse political and economic developments. Moreover, securities of many foreign issuers and their markets may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers.

 

Foreign Taxes. The Fund may be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Fund will accrue such taxes and recoveries as applicable, based upon its current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which it invests.

 

17

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued) 

 

Restricted Securities. The Fund is not subject to an independent limitation on the amount it may invest in securities for which the markets are restricted. Restricted securities include securities whose disposition is subject to substantial legal or contractual restrictions. The sale of restricted securities often requires more time and results in higher brokerage charges or dealer discounts and other selling expenses than the sale of securities eligible for trading on national securities exchanges or in the over-the-counter markets. Restricted securities may sell at a price lower than similar securities that are not subject to restrictions on resale. Securities freely saleable among qualified institutional investors under special rules adopted by the SEC may be treated as liquid if they satisfy liquidity standards established by the Board. The continued liquidity of such securities is not as well assured as that of publicly traded securities, and, accordingly, the Board will monitor their liquidity. At June 30, 2024, the Fund did not hold any restricted securities.

 

Securities Transactions and Investment Income. Securities transactions are accounted for on the trade date with realized gain/(loss) on investments determined by using the identified cost method. Interest income (including amortization of premium and accretion of discount) is recorded on an accrual basis. Premiums and discounts on debt securities are amortized using the effective yield to maturity method or amortized to earliest call date, if applicable. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except for certain dividends from foreign securities that are recorded as soon after the ex-dividend date as the Fund becomes aware of such dividends.

 

Distributions to Shareholders. Distributions to common shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions to shareholders are based on income and capital gains as determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from income and capital gains as determined under GAAP. These differences are primarily due to differing treatments of income and gains on various investment securities, passive foreign investment companies, and foreign currency transactions held by the Fund, timing differences, and differing characterizations of distributions made by the Fund. Distributions from net investment income for federal income tax purposes include net realized gains on foreign currency transactions. These book/ tax differences are either temporary or permanent in nature. To the extent these differences are permanent, adjustments are made to the appropriate capital accounts in the period when the differences arise. These reclassifications have no impact on the NAV of the Fund.

 

Under the Fund’s current common share distribution policy announced February 25, 2019, the Fund declares and pays quarterly distributions from net investment income, capital gains, and paid-in capital. The actual source of the distribution is determined after the end of the year. Pursuant to this policy, distributions during the year may be made in excess of required distributions. To the extent such distributions are made from current earnings and profits, they are considered ordinary income or long term capital gains. Distributions sourced from paid-in capital should not be considered as dividend yield or the total return from an investment in the Fund. The Board will continue to monitor the Fund’s distribution level, taking into consideration the Fund’s NAV and the financial market environment. The Fund’s distribution policy is subject to modification by the Board at any time.

 

Distributions to shareholders of the Fund’s 5.200% Series B Cumulative Preferred Shares (Series B Preferred) are recorded on a daily basis and are determined as described in Note 6.

 

18

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2023 was as follows:

 

   Common 
Distributions paid from:     
Ordinary income (inclusive of short term capital gains)  $473,030 
Net long term capital gains   3,200,058 
Return of capital   1,844,763 
Total distributions paid  $5,517,851 

 

Provision for Income Taxes. The Fund intends to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code). It is the policy of the Fund to comply with the requirements of the Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of its net investment company taxable income and net capital gains. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required

 

The following summarizes the tax cost of investments and the related net unrealized appreciation at June 30, 2024:

 

      Gross  Gross   
      Unrealized  Unrealized  Net Unrealized
   Cost  Appreciation  Depreciation  Appreciation
Investments  $102,236,679  $40,939,135  $(16,033,909)  $24,905,226

 

The Fund is required to evaluate tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing the Fund’s tax returns to determine whether the tax positions are “more-likely-than-not” of being sustained by the applicable tax authority. Income tax and related interest and penalties would be recognized by the Fund as tax expense in the Statement of Operations if the tax positions were deemed not to meet the more-likely-than-not threshold. As of June 30, 2024, the Adviser has reviewed the open tax years and concluded that there was no tax impact to the Fund’s net assets or results of operations. The Fund’s current federal and state tax returns will remain open for three fiscal years, subject to examination. On an ongoing basis, the Adviser will monitor the Fund’s tax positions to determine if adjustments to this conclusion are necessary.

 

3. Investment Advisory Agreement and Other Transactions. The Fund has entered into an investment advisory agreement (the Advisory Agreement) with the Adviser which provides that the Fund will pay the Adviser a fee, computed weekly and paid monthly, equal on an annual basis to 1.00% of the value of the Fund’s average weekly net assets including the liquidation value of preferred stock. In accordance with the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser provides a continuous investment program for the Fund’s portfolio and oversees the administration of all aspects of the Fund’s business and affairs.

 

4. Portfolio Securities. Purchases and sales of securities during the six months ended June 30, 2024, other than short term securities and U.S. Government obligations, aggregated $4,745,912 and $8,964,023, respectively. Purchases and sales of U.S. Government obligations for the six months ended June 30, 2024, aggregated $5,548,590 and $4,644,561, respectively.

 

5. Transactions with Affiliates and Other Arrangements. During the six months ended June 30, 2024, the Fund paid $2,363 in brokerage commissions on security trades to G.research, LLC, an affiliate of the Adviser.

 

19

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2024, the Fund received credits from a designated broker who agreed to pay certain Fund operating expenses. The amount of such expenses paid through this directed brokerage arrangement during this period was $1,337.

 

The cost of calculating the Fund’s NAV per share is a Fund expense pursuant to the Advisory Agreement between the Fund and the Adviser. Under the sub-administration agreement with Bank of New York Mellon, the fees paid include the cost of calculating the Fund’s NAV. The Fund reimburses the Adviser for this service. During the six months ended June 30, 2024, the Fund accrued $22,500 in accounting fees in the Statement of Operations.

 

As per the approval of the Board, the Fund compensates officers of the Fund, who are employed by the Fund and are not employed by the Adviser (although the officers may receive incentive based variable compensation from affiliates of the Adviser). During the six months ended June 30, 2024, the Fund accrued $93,283 in payroll expenses in the Statement of Operations.

 

The Fund pays retainer and per meeting fees to Independent Trustees and Certain Interested Trustees, plus specified amounts to the Lead Trustee and Audit Committee Chairman. Trustees are also reimbursed for out of pocket expenses incurred in attending meetings. Trustees who are directors or employees of the Adviser or an affiliated company receive no compensation or expense reimbursement from the Fund.

 

6. Capital. The Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of common shares of beneficial interest (par value $0.001). The Board has authorized the repurchase and retirement of its common shares on the open market when the shares are trading at a discount of 7.5% or more (or such other percentage as the Board may determine from time to time) from the NAV of the shares. During the six months ended June 30, 2024 and the year ended December 31, 2023, the Fund repurchased and retired 106,126 and 369,039 common shares, at an investment of $1,241,085 and $4,078,983, respectively, and at average discounts of 16.86% and 17.64%, respectively, from its net asset value.

 

Transactions in shares of common stock were as follows:

 

   Six Months Ended        
   June 30, 2024
(Unaudited)
   Year Ended
December 31, 2023
 
   Shares   Amount   Shares   Amount 
                     
Net decrease from repurchase of common shares  (106,126)  $(1,241,085)  (369,039)  $(4,078,983)

 

The Fund has an effective shelf registration which authorizes the offering of $100 million of common shares or preferred shares, expiring August 13, 2024.

 

The Fund’s Declaration of Trust, as amended, authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of shares of $0.001 par value Preferred Shares. The Preferred Shares are senior to the common shares and result in the financial leveraging of the common shares. Such leveraging tends to magnify both the risks and opportunities to common shareholders. The Fund is required by the 1940 Act and by the Fund’s Statement of Preferences to meet certain asset coverage tests with respect to the Preferred Shares. If the Fund fails to meet these requirements and does not correct such failure, the Fund may be required to redeem, in part or in full, the Preferred Shares at the redemption price plus an amount equal to the accumulated and unpaid dividends whether or not declared

 

20

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

on such shares in order to meet these requirements. Additionally, failure to meet the foregoing asset coverage requirements could restrict the Fund’s ability to pay dividends to common shareholders and could lead to sales of portfolio securities at inopportune times. The income received on the Fund’s assets may vary in a manner unrelated to the fixed rates, which could have either a beneficial or detrimental impact on net investment income and gains available to common shareholders.

 

On November 1, 2021, the Fund issued 4,000,000 shares of Series B 4.00% Cumulative Preferred Shares (the Series B Preferred) receiving $39,875,000 after the deduction of offering expenses of $125,000. The Series B Preferred has a liquidation value of $10 per share and per approval of the Board, effective May 17, 2023 the dividend rate on the Series B Preferred increased to 5.20% annually. The Series B Preferred is subject to mandatory redemption by the Fund on September 26, 2025.

 

On September 26, 2022, 800,000 Series B Preferred were put back to the Fund at their liquidation preference of $10 per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends. On September 26, 2023, 1,600,000 Series Preferred were put back to the Fund at the liquidation preference of $10 per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The Series B Preferred is callable at the Fund’s option at any time commencing on September 26, 2024. The Series B Preferred is subject to mandatory redemption by the Fund on September 26, 2025. At June 30, 2024, 1,600,000 shares of Series B Preferred were outstanding and accrued dividends amounted to $16,178.

 

On February 28, 2022, the Fund redeemed all of the Series A Preferred at the redemption price of $25.24600694 which consisted of the $25.00 per share liquidation preference and $0.24600694 per share representing accumulated but unpaid dividends and distributions to the redemption date.

 

The holders of Preferred Shares generally are entitled to one vote per share held on each matter submitted to a vote of shareholders of the Fund and will vote together with holders of common stock as a single class. The holders of Preferred Shares voting together as a single class also have the right currently to elect two Trustees and, under certain circumstances, are entitled to elect a majority of the Board of Trustees. In addition, the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of all outstanding shares of the preferred stock, voting as a single class, will be required to approve any plan of reorganization adversely affecting the preferred stock, and the approval of two-thirds of each class, voting separately, of the Fund’s outstanding voting stock must approve the conversion of the Fund from a closed-end to an open-end investment company. The approval of a majority (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the outstanding preferred stock and a majority (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund’s outstanding voting securities are required to approve certain other actions, including changes in the Fund’s investment objectives or fundamental investment policies.

 

 

7. Indemnifications. The Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown. However, the Fund has not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these contracts. Management has reviewed the Fund’s existing contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.

 

8. Subsequent Events. The Fund’s new shelf registration which authorizes the offering of $100 million of common shares or preferred shares, was declared effective August 28, 2024. Management has evaluated the impact on the Fund of all other subsequent events occurring through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no other subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

21

 

 

The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Certifications

 

The Fund’s Chief Executive Officer has certified to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) that, as of June 12, 2024, he was not aware of any violation by the Fund of applicable NYSE corporate governance listing standards. The Fund reports to the SEC on Form N-CSR which contains certifications by the Fund’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer that relate to the Fund’s disclosure in such reports and that are required by Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act.

 

Shareholder Meeting – May 13, 2024 – Final Results

 

The Fund's Annual Meeting of Shareholders was held on May 13, 2024. At that meeting, common and preferred shareholders, voting together as a single class, re-elected Calgary Avansino, Anthony S. Colavita, and Agnes Mullady as Trustees of the Fund, with 8,090,608 votes, 8,079,989 votes, and 8,101,528 votes cast in favor of these Trustees, and 804,127 votes, 814,746 votes, and 793,207 votes withheld for these Trustees, respectively.

 

In addition, preferred shareholders, voting as a separate class, re-elected Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr. as a Trustee of the Fund, with 1,157,022 votes cast in favor of this Trustee and no votes withheld for this Trustee.

 

John Birch, James P. Conn, Kevin V. Dreyer, Mario J. Gabelli, and Salvatore J. Zizza continue to serve in their capacities as Trustees of the Fund.

 

We thank you for your participation and appreciate your continued support.

 

22

 

THE GABELLI GLOBAL SMALL AND MID CAP VALUE TRUST

One Corporate Center

Rye, NY 10580-1422

 

 

 

 

Portfolio Management Team Biographies

 

Mario J. Gabelli, CFA, is Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Investment Officer - Value Portfolios of GAMCO Investors, Inc. that he founded in 1977, and Chief Investment Officer - Value Portfolios of Gabelli Funds, LLC and GAMCO Asset Management, Inc. He is also Executive Chairman of Associated Capital Group, Inc. Mr. Gabelli is a summa cum laude graduate of Fordham University and holds an MBA degree from Columbia Business School and Honorary Doctorates from Fordham University and Roger Williams University.

 

Christopher J. Marangi joined Gabelli in 2003 as a research analyst. Currently he is a Managing Director and Co-Chief Investment Officer for GAMCO Investors, Inc.’s Value team. In addition, he serves as a portfolio manager of Gabelli Funds, LLC and manages several funds within the Fund Complex. Mr. Marangi graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Political Economy from Williams College and holds an MBA degree with honors from Columbia Business School.

 

Kevin V. Dreyer joined Gabelli in 2005 as a research analyst covering companies within the consumer sector. Currently he is a Managing Director and Co-Chief Investment Officer for GAMCO Investors, Inc.’s Value team. In addition, he serves as a portfolio manager of Gabelli Funds, LLC and manages several funds within the Fund Complex. Mr. Dreyer received a BSE from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA degree from Columbia Business School.

 

Jeffrey J. Jonas, CFA, joined Gabelli in 2003 as a research analyst focusing on companies across the healthcare industry. He also serves as a portfolio manager of Gabelli Funds, LLC and manages several funds within the Fund Complex. Mr. Jonas was a Presidential Scholar at Boston College, where he received a BS in Finance and Management Information Systems.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Net Asset Value per share appears in the Publicly Traded Funds column, under the heading “World Equity Funds,” in Monday’s The Wall Street Journal. It is also listed in Barron’s Mutual Funds/Closed End Funds section under the heading “World Equity Funds.”

 

The Net Asset Value per share may be obtained each day by calling (914) 921-5070 or visiting www.gabelli.com.

 

The NASDAQ symbol for the Net Asset Value is “XGGZX.”

 

Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 23(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that the Fund may from time to time purchase its common shares in the open market when the Fund’s shares are trading at a discount of 7.5% or more from the net asset value of the shares. The Fund may also, from time to time, purchase its preferred shares in the open market when the preferred shares are trading at a discount to the liquidation value.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(b)Not applicable

 

Item 2. Code of Ethics.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 6. Investments.

 

(a)Schedule of Investments in securities of unaffiliated issuers as of the close of the reporting period is included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item 1(a) of this form.

 

(b)Not applicable.

 

Item 7. Financial Statements and Financial Highlights for Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

(a)Not applicable.

 

(b)Not applicable.

 

Item 8. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants for Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9. Proxy Disclosures for Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 10. Remuneration Paid to Directors, Officers, and Others of Open-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 11. Statement Regarding Basis for Approval of Investment Advisory Contract.

 

At a meeting on February 13, 2024, the Board of Trustees (Board) of the Fund approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement with the Adviser for the Fund on the basis of the recommendation by the trustees who are not interested persons of the Fund (the Independent Board Members). The following paragraphs summarize the material information and factors considered by the Independent Board Members as well as their conclusions relative to such factors.

 

 

 

 

Nature, Extent, and Quality of Services. The Independent Board Members considered information regarding the portfolio managers, the depth of the analyst pool available to the Adviser and the portfolio managers, the scope of supervisory, administrative, shareholder, and other services supervised or provided by the Adviser, and the absence of significant service problems reported to the Board. The Independent Board Members noted the experience, length of service, and reputation of the portfolio managers.

 

Investment Performance. The Independent Board Members reviewed the performance of the Fund for the one-, three- and five-year periods (as of December 31, 2023) against a peer group of eight other comparable peer funds selected by the Adviser (the “Adviser Peer Group”). The Adviser Peer Group included funds focused on small and/or midcap stocks. The Independent Board Members noted the Fund’s performance was in the second quartile for the three-year period, the third quartile for the five-year period, and the fourth quartile for the one-year period for the Adviser Peer Group. It was noted that because the Fund commenced investment operations on June 23, 2014, the Fund does not have a 10-year performance record.

 

Profitability. The Independent Board Members reviewed summary data regarding the profitability of the Fund to the Adviser.

 

Economies of Scale. The Independent Board Members noted that the Fund was a closed-end fund trading at a discount to NAV and accordingly unlikely to achieve growth of the type that might lead to economies of scale that the shareholders would not participate in.

 

Sharing of Economies of Scale. The Independent Board Members noted that the investment advisory fee schedule for the Fund does not take into account any potential economies of scale that may develop.

 

Service and Cost Comparisons. The Independent Board Members compared the expense ratios of the investment advisory fee, other expenses, and total expenses of the Fund with similar expense ratios of the Adviser Peer Group and noted that the Adviser’s advisory fee includes substantially all administrative services of the Fund as well as investment advisory services. The Independent Board Members noted that the Fund was smaller than average within the peer group and that its expense ratios were above average. The Independent Board Members also noted that the advisory fee structure was the same as that in effect for most of the Gabelli funds. The Independent Board Members were presented with information comparing the advisory fee to the fee for other types of accounts managed by an affiliate of the Adviser.

 

Conclusions. The Independent Board Members concluded that the Fund enjoyed highly experienced portfolio management services and good ancillary services. The Independent Board Members also concluded that the Fund has an acceptable performance record. The Independent Board Members concluded that the profitability to the Adviser of managing the Fund was acceptable and that economies of scale were not a significant factor in their thinking at this point. The Independent Board Members did not view the potential profitability of ancillary services as material to their decision. On the basis of the foregoing and without assigning particular weight to any single conclusion, the Independent Board Members determined to recommend continuation of the Advisory Agreement to the full Board.

 

Based on a consideration of all these factors in their totality, the Board Members, including all of the Independent Board Members, determined that the Fund’s advisory fee was appropriate in light of the quality of services provided and in light of the other factors described above that the Board deemed relevant. Accordingly, the Board Members determined to approve the continuation of the Fund’s Advisory Agreement. The Board Members based their decision on evaluations of all these factors as a whole and did not consider any one factor as all-important or controlling.

 

 

 

 

Item 12. Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 13. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

 

(a)(1)Identification of Portfolio Manager(s) or Management Team Members and Description of Role of Portfolio Manager(s) or Management Team Members

 

Not applicable

 

(a)(2)Other Accounts Managed by Portfolio Manager(s) or Management Team Member and Potential Conflicts of Interest

 

Not applicable

 

(a)(3)Compensation Structure of Portfolio Manager(s) or Management Team Members

 

Not applicable

 

(a)(4)Disclosure of Securities Ownership

 

Not applicable

 

(b)There has been no change, as of the date of this filing, in any of the portfolio managers identified in response to paragraph (a)(1) of this Item in the registrant’s most recently filed annual report on Form N-CSR.

 

Item 14. Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers.

 

(a)Provide the information specified in the table with respect to any purchase made by or on behalf of the registrant or any “affiliated purchaser” as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act (17CFR 240-10b-18(a)(3)), of shares or other units of any class of the registrant’s equity securities that is registered by the registrant pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 781).

 

 

 

 

REGISTRANT PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Period

(a) Total Number of

Shares (or Units)

Purchased

(b) Average

Price Paid per

Share (or Unit)

(c) Total Number of

Shares (or Units)

Purchased as Part of

Publicly Announced

Plans or Programs

(d) Maximum Number (or

Approximate Dollar Value) of

Shares (or Units) that May Yet

Be Purchased Under the Plans or

Programs

Month #1
01/01/2024 through 01/31/2024

Common - 1,615

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –$11.57

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common - 1,615

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common – 8,388,440 - 1,615 = 8,386,825

Preferred Series B – 1,600,000

Month #2
02/01/2024 through 02/29/2024

Common - 13,320

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –$11.57

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common - 13,320

Preferred Series B – N/A

Common – 8,386,825 - 13,320 = 8,373,505

 
Preferred Series B – 1,600,000

Month #3
03/01/2024 through 03/31/2024

Common – 27,403

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –$11.37

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common – 27,403

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –  8,373,505 - 27,403 = 8,346,102

Preferred Series B – 1,600,000

Month #4
04/01/2024 through 04/30/2024

Common – 2,600

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –$11.27

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common – 2,600

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common – 8,346,102 - 2,600 = 8,343,502

Preferred Series B – 1,600,000

Month #5
05/01/2024 through 05/31/2024

Common -  36,448

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –$11.72

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common -  36,448

Preferred Series B – N/A

Common – 8,343,502 - 36,448 = 8,307,054

 
Preferred Series B – 1,600,000

Month #6
06/01/2024 through 06/30/2024

Common - 36,360

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –$11.53

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common - 36,360

Preferred Series B – N/A

Common –   8,307,054 - 24,740 = 8,282,314

 
Preferred Series B – 1,600,000

Total Common -106,126

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common –$11.61

Preferred Series B – N/A
Common -106,126

Preferred Series B – N/A
N/A

  

Footnote columns (c) and (d) of the table, by disclosing the following information in the aggregate for all plans or programs publicly announced:

 

a.The date each plan or program was announced – The notice of the potential repurchase of common and preferred shares occurs semiannually in the Fund’s shareholder reports in accordance with Section 23(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

b.

The dollar amount (or share or unit amount) approved – Any or all common shares outstanding may be repurchased when the Fund’s common shares are trading at a discount of 7.5% or more from the net asset value of the shares.

Any or all preferred shares outstanding may be repurchased when the Fund’s preferred shares are trading at a discount to their respective liquidation values.

c.The expiration date (if any) of each plan or program – The Fund’s repurchase plans are ongoing.

d.Each plan or program that has expired during the period covered by the table – The Fund’s repurchase plans are ongoing.

e.Each plan or program the registrant has determined to terminate prior to expiration, or under which the registrant does not intend to make further purchases. Fund’s repurchase plans are ongoing.

 

 

 

 

Item 15. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

 

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which the shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s board of directors, where those changes were implemented after the registrant last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 407(c)(2)(iv) of Regulation S-K (17 CFR 229.407) (as required by Item 22(b)(15) of Schedule 14A (17 CFR 240.14a-101)), or this Item.

 

Item 16. Controls and Procedures.

 

(a)The registrant’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) (17 CFR 270.30a-3(c))) are effective, as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of the report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(b)) and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (17 CFR 240.13a-15(b) or 240.15d-15(b)).

 

(b)There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(d))) that occurred during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 17. Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

 

(a)Not applicable.

 

(b)Not applicable.

 

Item 18. Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation.

 

(a)If at any time during or after the last completed fiscal year the registrant was required to prepare an accounting restatement that required recovery of erroneously awarded compensation pursuant to the registrant’s compensation recovery policy required by the listing standards adopted pursuant to 17 CFR 240.10D-1, or there was an outstanding balance as of the end of the last completed fiscal year of erroneously awarded compensation to be recovered from the application of the policy to a prior restatement, the registrant must provide the following information:

 

(1)For each restatement:

 

(i)The date on which the registrant was required to prepare an accounting restatement; N/A

 

(ii)The aggregate dollar amount of erroneously awarded compensation attributable to such accounting restatement, including an analysis of how the amount was calculated; $0

 

 (ii)If the financial reporting measure defined in 17 CFR 10D-1(d) related to a stock price or total shareholder return metric, the estimates that were used in determining the erroneously awarded compensation attributable to such accounting restatement and an explanation of the methodology used for such estimates; N/A

  

(iv)The aggregate dollar amount of erroneously awarded compensation that remains outstanding at the end of the last completed fiscal year; $0 and

 

(v)If the aggregate dollar amount of erroneously awarded compensation has not yet been determined, disclose this fact, explain the reason(s) and disclose the information required in (ii) through (iv) in the next annual report that the registrant files on this Form N-CSR; $0

 

(2)If recovery would be impracticable pursuant to 17 CFR 10D-1(b)(1)(iv), for each named executive officer and for all other executive officers as a group, disclose the amount of recovery forgone and a brief description of the reason the registrant decided in each case not to pursue recovery; $0 and

 

(3)For each named executive officer from whom, as of the end of the last completed fiscal year, erroneously awarded compensation had been outstanding for 180 days or longer since the date the registrant determined the amount the individual owed, disclose the dollar amount of outstanding erroneously awarded compensation due from each such individual. N/A

 

 

 

 

(b)If at any time during or after its last completed fiscal year the registrant was required to prepare an accounting restatement, and the registrant concluded that recovery of erroneously awarded compensation was not required pursuant to the registrant’s compensation recovery policy required by the listing standards adopted pursuant to 17 CFR 240.10D-1, briefly explain why application of the recovery policy resulted in this conclusion. N/A

 

Item 19. Exhibits.

 

(a)(1)Not applicable.

 

(a)(2)Not applicable.

 

(a)(3)Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are attached hereto.

 

(a)(3)(1)There were no written solicitations to purchase securities under Rule 23c-1 under the Act sent or given during the period covered by the report by or on behalf of the Registrant to 10 or more persons.

 

(a)(3)(2)There was no change in the Registrant’s independent public accountant during the period covered by the report.

 

(b)Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(b) under the 1940 Act and Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are attached hereto.

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

(Registrant) The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust  

 

By (Signature and Title)* /s/ John C. Ball  
  John C. Ball, Principal Executive Officer  

 

Date September 4, 2024  

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By (Signature and Title)* /s/ John C. Ball  
  John C. Ball, Principal Executive Officer  

 

Date September 4, 2024  

  

By (Signature and Title)* /s/ John C. Ball  
  John C. Ball, Principal Financial Officer and Treasurer  

 

Date September 4, 2024  

 

* Print the name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature.