-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, ISI9qW9dP9J6OIPnqtvK9LJU8qLhyK2YGgTxGRwdrZ0sG6Oj1y+fbf6CC0jtph8x pmHqlgL1LOMZ1e2O0IhKeQ== 0000900092-99-000104.txt : 19990623 0000900092-99-000104.hdr.sgml : 19990623 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000900092-99-000104 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: N-30D PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 1 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 19990430 FILED AS OF DATE: 19990622 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: MUNIYIELD CALIFORNIA FUND INC CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000882152 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: UNKNOWN SIC - 0000 [0000] IRS NUMBER: 223144221 STATE OF INCORPORATION: MD FISCAL YEAR END: 0630 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: N-30D SEC ACT: SEC FILE NUMBER: 811-06499 FILM NUMBER: 99649897 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 800 SCUDDERS MILL RD CITY: PLAINSBORO STATE: NJ ZIP: 08543-9011 BUSINESS PHONE: 6092822800 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: P O BOX 9066 STREET 2: C/O MERRILL LYNCH ASSET MANAGEMENT CITY: PRINCETON STATE: NJ ZIP: 08543-9011 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: CALIFORNIA MUNIYIELD FUND INC DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19600201 N-30D 1 SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT MUNIYIELD CALIFORNIA FUND, INC. FUND LOGO Semi-Annual Report April 30, 1999 This report, including the financial information herein, is transmitted to the shareholders of MuniYield California Fund, Inc. for their information. It is not a prospectus, circular or representation intended for use in the purchase of shares of the Fund or any securities mentioned in the report. Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. The Fund has leveraged its Common Stock by issuing Preferred Stock to provide the Common Stock shareholders with a potentially higher rate of return. Leverage creates risks for Common Stock shareholders, including the likelihood of greater volatility of net asset value and market price of shares of the Common Stock, and the risk that fluctuations in the short-term dividend rates of the Preferred Stock may affect the yield to Common Stock shareholders. Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject to change. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. Box 9011 Princeton, NJ 08543-9011 Printed on post-consumer recycled paper MuniYield California Fund, Inc. TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS For the six months ended April 30, 1999, the Common Stock of MuniYield California Fund, Inc. earned $0.446 per share income dividends, which included earned and unpaid dividends of $0.069. This represents a net annualized yield of 5.87%, based on a month- end per share net asset value of $15.33. Over the same period, the total investment return on the Fund's Common Stock was +0.85%, based on a change in per share net asset value from $16.23 to $15.33, and assuming reinvest-ment of $0.564 per share ordinary income dividends and $0.474 per share capital gains distributions. For the six-month period ended April 30, 1999, the average yields of the Fund's Auction Market Preferred Stock were: Series A, 4.45%; Series B, 4.30%; and Series C, 3.84%. The Municipal Market Environment During the six months ended April 30, 1999, long-term bond yields generally moved higher. From November 1998 through mid-January 1999, long-term bond yields traded in a relatively narrow range. However, during February, a number of economic indicators were released that suggested that economic growth in the United States would likely remain strong throughout most of 1999. Consequently, long-term US Treasury bond yields rose more than 60 basis points (0.60%) to 5.70% by early March. During the remainder of the six-month period, US Treasury bond yields traded between 5.50% and 5.70% as the lack of inflationary pressures offset much of the concerns generated by continued strong economic growth. During most of the period, long- term, uninsured tax-exempt bond yields exhibited far less volatility and were largely stable. Also, long-term municipal bond yields rose just 5 basis points to 5.29% at the end of April 1999, as measured by the Bond Buyer Revenue Bond Index. In recent months, the tax-exempt market was better able to withstand much of the upward pressure on bond yields because of its stronger technical position. While the continued positive inflationary environment limited some of the recent increases in taxable bond yields, a deteriorating supply/demand position helped push taxable bond yields significantly higher than municipal bond yields. Much of the US Treasury bond market's underperformance in recent months can be attributed to the large amounts of taxable corporate issuance. Large taxable corporate underwritings reduced the demand for US Government securities in recent months, pushing US Treasury bond yields higher. On the other hand, the tax-exempt bond market enjoyed only limited new-issue supply. During the six months ended April 30, 1999, more than $123 billion in new long-term tax-exempt securities was underwritten, a decline of 10% compared to the same period a year ago. Municipalities issued less than $60 billion in long-term tax- exempt securities during the three months ended April 30, 1999, a decline of 25% compared to the April 30, 1998 quarter. More recently, the rate of new tax-exempt issuance has declined even further. During April 1999, just over $15 billion in long-term tax- exempt securities was marketed, a decline of over 33% compared to April 1998 levels. As municipal bond yields fell and stabilized in recent quarters, the ability of municipalities to refinance existing higher-couponed debt declined. This led to a significant decrease in refunding issuance and an overall drop in new municipal bond supply. When coupled with ongoing, moderate retail and institutional demand, the tax-exempt bond market was able to avoid much of the yield volatility exhibited by US Treasury securities. Looking ahead, the expected combination of moderate economic growth in the United States and continued negligible inflation suggests a relatively stable interest rate environment. However, in recent years, bond yields reached their annual peaks in early May and declined for the remainder of the year. A meaningful decline in fixed-income bond yields would require either evidence of a significant slowdown in the US economy or the resumption of concerns regarding renewed shocks to the world's economic system. Currently, neither condition exists or seems likely in the immediate future. In our opinion, this suggests a continuation of the narrow trading ranges seen in recent months. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 Portfolio Strategy In general, we have continuously managed MuniYield California Fund, Inc. with a focus on seeking to enhance current income. As a result of this strategy, during the six months ended April 30, 1999, the Fund had an above-industry average yield, largely stemming from its advantage of being one of the more mature leveraged California tax- exempt portfolios. During the last six months, we made an effort to balance the Fund's high-coupon structure with bond holdings that are more sensitive to interest rate moves. We believe these additions may provide greater total return potential if interest rates resume their decline later this year. We began extending the portfolio's average call protection in order to seek to secure the Fund's income stream. The Fund's portfolio includes a significant position in securities with call features that may be exercised within the next three years--four years. A growing Federal budget surplus, a corresponding reduction of Treasury bond issuance and historically low inflationary expectations have given us confidence that debt securities should be well supported going forward. Also, as the California municipal calendar of new issuance subsides, the technical position of the municipal market is likely to improve, possibly leading to significant price appreciation. California municipal bonds are currently at historically attractive yield spreads relative to their taxable counterparts. Therefore, we believe a more aggressive position is warranted within the Fund's portfolio mix. It should be noted that this strategy does not mean a lowering of credit quality. With the inordinately tight credit quality spreads, 88% of the Fund's net assets was invested in securities rated AA or better by at least one of the major rating agencies. Short-term tax-exempt yields exhibited considerable volatility in recent months. Interest rates paid to the Fund's Preferred Stock shareholders traded below 3% in December 1998, reflecting heightened investor demand at year-end. Current short-term interest rate levels reflect tax season-related pressures, which we expect to abate soon. During the six-month period ended April 30, 1999, leveraging generated a significant incremental yield to the Fund's Common Stock shareholders. Because we believe that the Federal Reserve Board's monetary policy is likely to remain in a narrow range for the remainder of the year, we expect short-term tax-exempt interest rates to remain at, or slightly below, current levels. However, should the spread between short-term and long-term interest rates narrow, the benefits of the leverage will decline and, as a result, reduce the yield to the Fund's Common Stock. (For a complete explanation of the benefits and risks of leveraging, see page 4 of this report to shareholders.) In Conclusion We appreciate your ongoing interest in MuniYield California Fund, Inc., and we look forward to assisting you with your financial needs in the months and years ahead. Sincerely, (Terry K. Glenn) Terry K. Glenn President and Director (Vincent R. Giordano) Vincent R. Giordano Senior Vice President (Walter C. O'Connor) Walter C. O'Connor Vice President and Portfolio Manager June 3, 1999 After more than 20 years of service, Arthur Zeikel recently retired as Chairman of Merrill Lynch Asset Management, L.P. (MLAM). Mr. Zeikel served as President of MLAM from 1977 to 1997 and as Chairman since December 1997. Mr. Zeikel is one of the country's most respected leaders in asset management and presided over the growth of Merrill Lynch's asset management business. During his tenure, client assets under management grew from $300 million to over $500 billion. Mr. Zeikel will remain on MuniYield California Fund, Inc.'s Board of Directors. We are pleased to announce that Terry K. Glenn has been elected President and Director of the Fund. Mr. Glenn has held the position of Executive Vice President of MLAM since 1983. Mr. Zeikel's colleagues at MLAM join the Fund's Board of Directors in wishing him well in his retirement from Merrill Lynch and are pleased that he will continue as a member of the Fund's Board of Directors. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 PROXY RESULTS
During the six-month period ended April 30, 1999, MuniYield California Fund, Inc.'s Common Stock shareholders voted on the following proposals. Proposals 1 and 2 were approved at a shareholders' meeting on April 21, 1999. The meeting was adjourned with respect to Proposal 3. The description of each proposal and number of shares voted are as follows: Shares Shares Withheld Voted For From Voting 1. To elect the Fund's Directors: Terry K. Glenn 20,516,835 302,665 James H. Bodurtha 20,518,549 300,951 Herbert I. London 20,516,177 303,323 Robert R. Martin 20,505,377 314,123 Arthur Zeikel 20,513,826 305,674 Shares Shares Voted Shares Voted Voted For Against Abstain 2. To ratify the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Fund's independent auditors for the current fiscal year. 20,403,451 115,150 300,899 3. To approve an amendment to the Articles Supplementary of the Fund. Adjourned Adjourned Adjourned During the six-month period ended April 30, 1999, MuniYield California Fund, Inc.'s Preferred Stock shareholders (Series A, B, and C) voted on the following proposals. Proposals 1 and 2 were approved at a shareholders' meeting on April 21, 1999. The meeting was adjourned with respect to Proposal 3. The description of each proposal and number of shares voted are as follows: Shares Shares Withheld Voted For From Voting 1. To elect the Fund's Board of Directors: Terry K. Glenn, James H. Bodurtha, Herbert I. London, Robert R. Martin, Joseph L. May, Andre F. Perold and Arthur Zeikel as follows: Series A 2,398 2 Series B 2,238 0 Series C 799 0 Shares Shares Voted Shares Voted Voted For Against Abstain 2. To ratify the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Fund's independent auditors for the current fiscal year as follows: Series A 2,400 0 0 Series B 2,238 0 0 Series C 753 0 45 3. To approve an amendment to the Articles Supplementary of the Fund. Adjourned Adjourned Adjourned
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 THE BENEFITS AND RISKS OF LEVERAGING MuniYield California Fund, Inc. utilizes leveraging to seek to enhance the yield and net asset value of its Common Stock. However, these objectives cannot be achieved in all interest rate environments. To leverage, the Fund issues Preferred Stock, which pays dividends at prevailing short-term interest rates, and invests the proceeds in long-term municipal bonds. The interest earned on these investments is paid to Common Stock shareholders in the form of dividends, and the value of these portfolio holdings is reflected in the per share net asset value of the Fund's Common Stock. However, in order to benefit Common Stock shareholders, the yield curve must be positively sloped; that is, short-term interest rates must be lower than long-term interest rates. At the same time, a period of generally declining interest rates will benefit Common Stock shareholders. If either of these conditions change, then the risks of leveraging will begin to outweigh the benefits. To illustrate these concepts, assume a fund's Common Stock capitalization of $100 million and the issuance of Preferred Stock for an additional $50 million, creating a total value of $150 million available for investment in long-term municipal bonds. If prevailing short-term interest rates are approximately 3% and long- term interest rates are approximately 6%, the yield curve has a strongly positive slope. The fund pays dividends on the $50 million of Preferred Stock based on the lower short-term interest rates. At the same time, the fund's total portfolio of $150 million earns the income based on long-term interest rates. Of course, increases in short-term interest rates would reduce (and even eliminate) the dividends on the Common Stock. In this case, the dividends paid to Preferred Stock shareholders are significantly lower than the income earned on the fund's long-term investments, and therefore the Common Stock shareholders are the beneficiaries of the incremental yield. However, if short-term interest rates rise, narrowing the differential between short-term and long-term interest rates, the incremental yield pickup on the Common Stock will be reduced or eliminated completely. At the same time, the market value of the fund's Common Stock (that is, its price as listed on the New York Stock Exchange) may, as a result, decline. Furthermore, if long-term interest rates rise, the Common Stock's net asset value will reflect the full decline in the price of the portfolio's investments, since the value of the fund's Preferred Stock does not fluctuate. In addition to the decline in net asset value, the market value of the fund's Common Stock may also decline. As a part of its investment strategy, the Fund may invest in certain securities whose potential income return is inversely related to changes in a floating interest rate ("inverse floaters"). In general, income on inverse floaters will decrease when short-term interest rates increase and increase when short-term interest rates decrease. Investments in inverse floaters may be characterized as derivative securities and may subject the Fund to the risks of reduced or eliminated interest payments and losses of invested principal. In addition, inverse floaters have the effect of providing investment leverage and, as a result, the market value of such securities will generally be more volatile than that of fixed- rate, tax-exempt securities. To the extent the Fund invests in inverse floaters, the market value of the Fund's portfolio and the net asset value of the Fund's shares may also be more volatile than if the Fund did not invest in these securities. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 MANAGED DIVIDEND POLICY The Fund's dividend policy is to distribute substantially all of its net investment income to its shareholders on a monthly basis. However, in order to provide shareholders with a more consistent yield to the current trading price of shares of Common Stock of the Fund, the Fund may at times pay out less than the entire amount of net investment income earned in any particular month and may at times in any month pay out such accumulated but undistributed income in addition to net investment income earned in that month. As a result, the dividends paid by the Fund for any particular month may be more or less than the amount of net investment income earned by the Fund during such month. The Fund's current accumulated but undistributed net investment income, if any, is disclosed in the Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Capital, which comprises part of the Financial Information included in this report. YEAR 2000 ISSUES Many computer systems were designed using only two digits to designate years. These systems may not be able to distinguish the Year 2000 from the Year 1900 (commonly known as the "Year 2000 Problem"). The Fund could be adversely affected if the computer systems used by the Fund's management or other Fund service providers do not properly address this problem before January 1, 2000. The Fund's management expects to have addressed this problem before then, and does not anticipate that the services it provides will be adversely affected. The Fund's other service providers have told the Fund's management that they also expect to resolve the Year 2000 Problem, and the Fund's management will continue to monitor the situation as the Year 2000 approaches. However, if the problem has not been fully addressed, the Fund could be negatively affected. The Year 2000 Problem could also have a negative impact on the securities in which the Fund invests, and this could hurt the Fund's investment returns. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS To simplify the listings of MuniYield California Fund, Inc.'s portfolio holdings in the Schedule of Investments, we have abbreviated the names of many of the securities according to the list below and at right. AMT Alternative Minimum Tax (subject to) COP Certificates of Participation GO General Obligation Bonds HFA Housing Finance Agency PCR Pollution Control Revenue Bonds RIB Residual Interest Bonds RITR Residual Interest Trust Receipts S/F Single-Family VRDN Variable Rate Demand Notes SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (in Thousands)
S&P Moody's Face Value Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a) California--94.9% AAA Aaa $11,010 Beverly Hills, California, Public Financing Authority, Lease Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series A, 5.125% due 6/01/2017 (i) $ 11,210 California HFA, Home Mortgage Revenue Bonds, AMT: AA- Aa2 370 Series C, 7.60% due 8/01/2030 (d) 385 NR* Aa2 410 Series D, 7.75% due 8/01/2010 (d) 428 AAA Aaa 5,000 Series E, 6.10% due 8/01/2029 (a) 5,313 AA- Aa2 2,540 Series E-1, 6.70% due 8/01/2025 (d) 2,718 AA- Aa2 6,110 Series F-1, 7% due 8/01/2026 (d) 6,595 AA- Aa2 5,635 Series N, 6.375% due 2/01/2027 (d) 6,052 NR* Aa2 1,045 California HFA, Home Mortgage Revenue Bonds, Series D, 7.25% due 8/01/2017 (d) 1,095 A+ Aa2 3,750 California HFA, Revenue Bonds, RIB, AMT, Series B-2, 9.621% due 8/01/2023 (d)(k) 4,275 California Health Facilities Finance Authority Revenue Bonds: NR* Aaa 10,000 RITR, Series 14, 6.32% due 8/15/2030 (i)(k) 10,552 NR* A1 2,835 (Scripps Research Institute), Series A, 6.625% due 7/01/2018 3,119 AAA Aaa 5,435 California Health Facilities Finance Authority, Revenue Refunding Bonds (Children's Hospital), 5.375% due 7/01/2016 (i) 5,628 California Pollution Control Financing Authority, PCR, Refunding, VRDN (l): A1+ NR* 2,500 (Pacific Gas and Electric), AMT, Series C, 4.25% due 11/01/2026 2,500 A1+ NR* 2,500 (Pacific Gas and Electric), Series F, 4.20% due 11/01/2026 2,500 A1 VMIG1++ 4,300 (Southern California Edison), Series A, 4.15% due 2/28/2008 4,300 NR* Aaa 1,215 California Rural Home Mortgage Finance Authority, S/F Mortgage Revenue Bonds (Mortgage-Backed Securities Program), AMT, Series A-1, 6.90% due 12/01/2024 (e)(h) 1,350 AAA Aaa 10,000 California State, Department of Water Resources, Water Systems Revenue Refunding Bonds (Central Valley Project), Series Q, 5.375% due 12/01/2027 (i) 10,285 A1+ VMIG1++ 1,600 California State Economic Development Financing Authority Revenue Bonds (California Independent Systems Project), VRDN, Series C, 4.10% due 4/01/2008 (l) 1,600 California State, GO: A+ Aaa 10,600 5.90% due 4/01/2003 (j) 11,660 AAA Aaa 9,500 5.125% due 10/01/2027 (a) 9,478 AAA Aaa 10,000 California State, GO, Refunding, 4.25% due 10/01/2026 (i) 8,699 California State Public Works Board, Lease Revenue Bonds (j): A Aaa 1,000 (Department of Corrections), Series A, 6.875% due 11/01/2004 1,172 A Aaa 6,800 (Department of Corrections), Series A, 7% due 11/01/2004 8,008 A Aaa 3,535 (Various Community College Projects), 7.0% due 3/01/2004 4,101
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued) (in Thousands)
S&P Moody's Face Value Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a) California (continued) California State Public Works Board, Lease Revenue Refunding Bonds: A A1 $ 4,265 (California Community Colleges), Series D, 5.375% due 3/01/2012 $ 4,496 AAA Aaa 7,125 (California State University Project), Series A, 5.375% due 10/01/2017 (a) 7,399 AAA Aaa 2,625 (Various Community College Project), Series B, 5.625% due 3/01/2019 (a) 2,779 AA Aa3 4,750 California Statewide Community Development Authority Revenue Bonds, COP (Saint Joseph Health System Group), 6.625% due 7/01/2004 (j) 5,460 AAA Aaa 6,185 Contra Costa County, California, Public Financing Authority, Lease Revenue Refunding Bonds (Various Capital Facilities), Series A, 5.35% due 8/01/2024 (i) 6,380 BBB NR* 3,000 Contra Costa County, California, Public Financing Authority, Tax Allocation Revenue Bonds, Series A, 7.10% due 8/01/2022 3,305 NR* NR* 810 Cypress, California, S/F Residential Mortgage Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series B, 7.25% due 1/01/2012 (b) 1,013 BBB Baa3 1,810 Inglewood, California, Public Financing Authority, Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series B, 7% due 5/01/2002 (j) 1,998 AAA Aaa 11,290 Jurupa, California, Community Services District, Revenue Refunding Bonds Special Tax Community Facilities District Number 1, 4.75% due 9/01/2024 (g) 10,669 AAA Aaa 3,645 Los Angeles, California, Community Redevelopment Agency, Tax Allocation Refunding Bonds (Bunker Hill), Series H, 6.50% due 12/01/2015 (g) 4,089 NR* Aaa 4,000 Los Angeles, California, Convention and Exhibition Center Authority, Lease Revenue Bonds, RITR, Series 21, 6.32% due 8/15/2018 (k) 4,190 NR* Aaa 6,200 Los Angeles, California, Department of Water and Power, Electric Plant Revenue Bonds, RITR, Series 18, 6.37% due 11/15/2031 (k) 6,459 A+ Aa3 7,300 Los Angeles, California, Department of Water and Power, Electric Plant Revenue Refunding Bonds, 6.375% due 2/01/2020 7,870 AAA Aaa 3,925 Los Angeles, California, Department of Water and Power, Waterworks Revenue Bonds, 6.30% due 7/01/2024 (i) 4,414 AAA Aaa 11,875 Los Angeles, California, Department of Water and Power, Waterworks Revenue Refunding Bonds, 4.25% due 10/15/2034 (i) 10,125 Los Angeles, California, Harbor Department Revenue Bonds: AA Aa3 4,240 AMT, Series B, 6.60% due 8/01/2015 4,651 AA Aa3 8,855 AMT, Series B, 6.625% due 8/01/2019 9,690 AA Aa3 11,000 AMT, Series B, 5.375% due 11/01/2023 11,192 NR* Aaa 4,000 RITR, Series RI-7, 7.995% due 11/01/2026 (i)(k) 4,869 AAA NR* 145 Los Angeles, California, S/F Home Mortgage Revenue Bonds (Mortgage-Backed Securities Program), AMT, Issue A, 7.55% due 12/01/2023 (d)(h) 150 AAA Aaa 10,000 Los Angeles, California, Unified School District, GO, Series B, 5% due 7/01/2023 (c) 9,848 AAA Aaa 6,605 Los Angeles, California, Wastewater System Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series C, 4% due 6/01/2015 (i) 5,997 NR* NR* 5,000 Los Angeles County, California, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, RITR, Series 30, 6.07% due 7/01/2023 (a)(k) 5,125 Los Angeles County, California, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds: AAA Aaa 3,000 Proposition A, First Tier, Senior Series A, 5.25% due 7/01/2027 (i) 3,048 AAA Aaa 3,500 Proposition C, Second Senior-Series A, 5% due 7/01/2023 (a) 3,447 AAA Aaa 13,080 Proposition C, Second Series, Series A, 4.75% due 7/01/2026 (g) 12,355 AAA Aaa 9,600 Los Angeles County, California, Public Works Financing Authority, Lease Revenue Bonds (Multiple Capital Facilities Project V), Series B, 5.125% due 12/01/2029 (a) 9,577
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued) (in Thousands)
S&P Moody's Face Value Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a) California (continued) AAA Aaa $ 1,270 Northern California Power Agency, Multiple Capital Facilities Revenue Bonds, RIB, 9.618% due 8/01/2025 (i)(k) $ 1,503 AAA Aaa 5,000 Northern California Power Agency, Multiple Capital Facilities Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series A, 5% due 8/01/2025 (a) 4,906 AAA Aaa 4,000 Northern California Power Agency, Public Power Revenue Refunding Bonds (Hydroelectric Project Number 1), Series A, 5% due 7/01/2028 (i) 3,922 Oakland, California, Joint Powers Financing Authority, Lease Revenue Bonds (Oakland Administration Buildings) (a): AAA Aaa 2,000 5.90% due 8/01/2016 2,198 AAA Aaa 6,000 5.75% due 8/01/2021 6,440 AAA Aaa 5,395 5.75% due 8/01/2026 5,791 AAA Aaa 5,350 Pomona, California, Public Financing Authority, Revenue Refunding Bonds (SW Pomona Redevelopment Project), Series W, 5% due 2/01/2024 (i) 5,245 AAA Aaa 2,345 Richmond, California, Redevelopment Agency, Tax Allocation, Refunding Bonds (Harbour Redevelopment Project), Series A, 5.50% due 7/01/2018 (i) 2,481 AAA Aaa 5,000 Sacramento, California, Municipal Utility District, Electric Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series L, 5.125% due 7/01/2015 (i) 5,129 AAA Aaa 10,000 Sacramento County, California, COP, Crossover Refunding (Public Facilities Project), 4.75% due 10/01/2027 (a) 9,434 AAA Aaa 10,000 San Diego, California, Certificates of Undivided Interest, Water Utility Fund, Net System Revenue Bonds, 5% due 8/01/2021 (c) 9,867 BBB+ Baa1 1,300 San Diego, California, Redevelopment Agency, Tax Allocation, Refunding Bonds (Horton Project), Series B, 6.625% due 11/01/2017 1,448 AAA Aaa 10,760 San Diego County, California, Water Authority, Water Revenue Bonds, COP, Series A, 5% due 5/01/2022 (c) 10,601 San Francisco, California, Bay Area Rapid Transit District, Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds: AA- Aa3 4,000 5.25% due 7/01/2010 4,284 AA- Aa3 5,120 5.25% due 7/01/2013 5,380 San Francisco, California, City and County Airport Commission, International Airport Revenue Bonds, Second Series: AAA Aaa 3,000 AMT, Issue 5, 6.50% due 5/01/2019 (c) 3,341 AAA Aaa 4,525 AMT, Issue 6, 6.60% due 5/01/2020 (a) 5,060 AAA Aaa 8,000 Issue 15-B, 4.50% due 5/01/2028 (i) 7,244 San Francisco, California, City and County Airport Commission, International Airport Revenue Refunding Bonds: AAA Aaa 7,105 Issue 1, 6.50% due 5/01/2013 (a) 7,778 AAA Aaa 1,640 Issue 2, 6.75% due 5/01/2013 (i) 1,838 San Francisco, California, City and County GO, Refunding, Series 1 (c): AAA Aaa 5,000 5.125% due 6/15/2013 5,206 AAA Aaa 6,825 5.125% due 6/15/2014 7,073 AAA Aaa 4,715 San Francisco, California, City and County Redevelopment Agency, Lease Revenue Refunding Bonds (George R. Moscone Convention Center), 6.80% due 7/01/2019 (g) 5,365
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (concluded) (in Thousands)
S&P Moody's Face Value Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a) California (concluded) AA+ NR* $ 105 San Francisco, California, City and County S/F Mortgage Revenue Bonds (Mortgage-Backed Securities Program), AMT, 7.45% due 1/01/2024 (f) $ 109 AAA Aaa 2,000 San Francisco, California, State Building Authority, Lease Revenue Bonds (San Francisco Civic Center Complex), Series A, 5.25% due 12/01/2021 (a) 2,036 AAA Aaa 5,000 San Jose, California, Redevelopment Agency Tax Allocation (Merged Area Redevelopment Project), 5% due 8/01/2026 (a) 4,883 AAA Aaa 3,750 San Mateo County, California, Joint Powers Authority, Lease Revenue Refunding Bonds (Capital Projects), Series A, 4.75% due 7/15/2023 (g) 3,563 Santa Clara County, California, Financing Authority, Lease Revenue Bonds (VMC Facility Replacement Project), Series A (a)(j): AAA Aaa 9,525 6.75% due 11/15/2004 11,108 AAA Aaa 2,000 6.875% due 11/15/2004 2,340 AAA Aaa 3,000 Santa Fe Springs, California, Redevelopment Agency, Tax Allocation, Refunding Bonds (Conservation Redevelopment Project), Series A, 6% due 9/01/2014 (i) 3,256 Southern California Home Finance Authority, S/F Mortgage Revenue Bonds (Mortgage-Backed Securities Program), AMT: AAA NR* 965 Series A, 6.75% due 9/01/2022 (f) 1,012 AAA NR* 1,515 Series A, 7.625% due 10/01/2023 (h) 1,577 AAA NR* 120 Series B, 7.75% due 3/01/2024 (f) 125 AAA Aaa 5,000 Stockton, California, COP (Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion), Series A, 6.80% due 9/01/2004 (c)(j) 5,818 Puerto Rico -- 2.1% A Baa1 5,500 Puerto Rico Commonwealth, Highway and Transportation Authority, Highway Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series V, 6.625% due 7/01/2012 5,993 BBB+ Baa1 2,600 Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, Power Revenue Bonds, Series T, 6.375% due 7/01/2004 (j) 2,944 BBB+ Baa1 1,000 Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, Power Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series U, 6% due 7/01/2014 1,087 Total Investments (Cost--$435,892)--97.0% 451,003 Other Assets Less Liabilities--3.0% 13,713 -------- Net Assets--100.0% $464,716 ======== (a)AMBAC Insured. (b)Escrowed to Maturity. (c)FGIC Insured. (d)FHA Insured. (e)FHLMC Collateralized. (f)FNMA/GNMA Collateralized. (g)FSA Insured. (h)GNMA Collateralized. (i)MBIA Insured. (j)Prerefunded. (k)The interest rate is subject to change periodically and inversely based upon prevailing market rates. The interest rate shown is the rate in effect at April 30, 1999. (l)The interest rate is subject to change periodically based upon prevailing market rates. The interest rate shown is the rate in effect at April 30, 1999. *Not Rated. ++Highest short-term rating by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. See Notes to Financial Statements.
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Capital as of April 30, 1999 Assets: Investments, at value (identified cost--$435,892,319) (Note 1a) $451,003,201 Cash 29,766 Receivables: Securities sold $ 10,036,291 Interest 7,408,054 17,444,345 ------------ Prepaid expenses and other assets 69,825 ------------ Total assets 468,547,137 ------------ Liabilities: Payables: Securities purchased 3,618,815 Investment adviser (Note 2) 204,386 3,823,201 ------------ Accrued expenses and other liabilities 8,365 ------------ Total liabilities 3,831,566 ------------ Net Assets: Net assets $464,715,571 ============ Capital: Capital Stock (200,000,000 shares authorized) (Note 4): Preferred Stock, par value $.05 per share (5,600 shares of AMPS* issued and outstanding at $25,000 per share liquidation preference) $140,000,000 Common Stock, par value $.10 per share (21,184,475 shares issued and outstanding) $ 2,118,448 Paid-in capital in excess of par 298,335,376 Undistributed investment income--net 3,862,531 Undistributed realized capital gains on investments--net 5,288,334 Unrealized appreciation on investments--net 15,110,882 ------------ Total--Equivalent to $15.33 net asset value per Common Stock (market price--$15.75) 324,715,571 ------------ Total capital $464,715,571 ============ *Auction Market Preferred Stock. See Notes to Financial Statements.
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued) Statement of Operations
For the Six Months Ended April 30, 1999 Investment Income Interest and amortization of premium and discount earned $ 12,494,512 (Note 1d): Expenses: Investment advisory fees (Note 2) $ 1,172,946 Commission fees (Note 4) 153,517 Accounting services (Note 2) 57,944 Professional fees 41,706 Transfer agent fees 32,168 Printing and shareholder reports 19,572 Custodian fees 16,474 Listing fees 14,564 Directors' fees and expenses 10,721 Pricing fees 6,457 Other 21,135 ------------ Total expenses 1,547,204 ------------ Investment income--net 10,947,308 ------------ Realized & Realized gain on investments--net 7,628,257 Unrealized Gain Change in unrealized appreciation on investments--net (12,697,366) (Loss) on ------------ Investments--Net Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting from Operations $ 5,878,199 (Notes 1b, 1d & 3): ============ See Notes to Financial Statements.
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued) Statements of Changes in Net Assets
For the Six For the Year Months Ended Ended April 30, October 31, Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets: 1999 1998 Operations: Investment income--net $ 10,947,308 $ 22,247,040 Realized gain on investments--net 7,628,257 14,829,943 Change in unrealized appreciation on investments--net (12,697,366) (7,832,939) ------------ ------------ Net increase in net assets resulting from operations 5,878,199 29,244,044 ------------ ------------ Dividends & Investment income--net: Distributions to Common Stock (9,666,562) (17,763,984) Shareholders Preferred Stock (1,097,424) (3,786,536) (Note 1f): Realized gain on investments--net: Common Stock (12,118,019) (1,382,438) Preferred Stock (1,904,408) (936,720) ------------ ------------ Net decrease in net assets resulting from dividends and distributions to shareholders (24,786,413) (23,869,678) ------------ ------------ Capital Stock Value of shares issued to Common Stock shareholders Transactions in reinvestment of dividends and distributions 4,278,659 3,578,320 (Note 1e & 4): Proceeds from issuance of Common Stock resulting from reorganization -- 62,338,657 Offering costs from issuance of Common Stock resulting from reorganization -- (243,170) Proceeds from issuance of Preferred Stock resulting from reorganization -- 20,000,000 ------------ ------------ Net increase in net assets derived from capital stock transactions 4,278,659 85,673,807 ------------ ------------ Net Assets: Total increase (decrease) in net assets (14,629,555) 91,048,173 Beginning of period 479,345,126 388,296,953 ------------ ------------ End of period* $464,715,571 $479,345,126 ============ ============ *Undistributed investment income--net $ 3,862,531 $ 3,679,209 ============ ============ See Notes to Financial Statements.
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 FINANCIAL INFORMATION (concluded) Financial Highlights
The following per share data and ratios have been derived For the Six from information provided in the financial statements. Months Ended For the April 30, Year Ended October 31, Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 16.23 $ 15.98 $ 15.44 $ 15.18 $ 13.91 Operating -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Performance: Investment income--net .52 1.11 1.17 1.16 1.18 Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments--net (.24) .39 .54 .28 1.53 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Total from investment operations .28 1.50 1.71 1.44 2.71 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Less dividends and distributions to Common Stock shareholders: Investment income--net (.46) (.92) (.93) (.93) (.90) Realized gain on investments--net (.58) (.08) -- -- (.25) -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Total dividends and distributions to Common Stock shareholders (1.04) (1.00) (.93) (.93) (1.15) -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Capital charge resulting from issuance of Common Stock -- (.01) -- -- -- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Effect of Preferred Stock activity:++ Dividends and distributions to Preferred Stock shareholders: Investment income--net (.05) (.19) (.24) (.25) (.25) Realized gain on investments--net (.09) (.05) -- -- (.04) -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Total effect of Preferred Stock activity (.14) (.24) (.24) (.25) (.29) -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Net asset value, end of period $ 15.33 $ 16.23 $ 15.98 $ 15.44 $ 15.18 ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Market price per share, end of period $ 15.75 $16.5625 $ 15.875 $ 14.875 $ 13.375 ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Total Investment Based on market price per share 1.54%+++ 8.10% 13.44% 18.68% 20.62% Return:** ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Based on net asset value per share .85%+++ 11.04% 10.01% 8.54% 19.33% ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Ratios to Average Expenses .66%* .65% .67% .67% .69% Net Assets:*** ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Investment income--net 4.66%* 4.94% 5.14% 5.16% 5.48% ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Supplemental Net assets, net of Preferred Stock, Data: end of period (in thousands) $324,716 $339,345 $268,297 $259,082 $254,742 ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Preferred Stock outstanding, end of period (in thousands) $140,000 $140,000 $120,000 $120,000 $120,000 ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Portfolio turnover 68.55% 136.88% 88.68% 67.48% 69.59% ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Leverage: Asset coverage per $1,000 $ 3,319 $ 3,424 $ 3,236 $ 3,159 $ 3,123 ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Dividends Series A--Investment income--net $ 195 $ 729 $ 852 $ 875 $ 882 Per Share on ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Preferred Stock Series B--Investment income--net $ 176 $ 693 $ 830 $ 860 $ 864 Outstanding: ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Series C--Investment income--net $ 260 $ 466 -- -- -- ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== *Annualized. **Total investment returns based on market value, which can be significantly greater or lesser than the net asset value, may result in substantially different returns. Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales loads. ***Do not reflect the effect of dividends to Preferred Stock shareholders. ++The Fund's Preferred Stock was issued on April 10, 1992 (Series A and B) and February 9, 1998 (Series C). +++Aggregate total investment return. See Notes to Financial Statements.
MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1. Significant Accounting Policies: MuniYield California Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company. The Fund's financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. These unaudited financial statements reflect all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to a fair statement of the results for the interim period presented. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. The Fund determines and makes available for publication the net asset value of its Common Stock on a weekly basis. The Fund's Common Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol MYC. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Fund. (a) Valuation of investments--Municipal bonds are traded primarily in the over-the-counter markets and are valued at the most recent bid price or yield equivalent as obtained by the Fund's pricing service from dealers that make markets in such securities. Financial futures contracts and options thereon, which are traded on exchanges, are valued at their closing prices as of the close of such exchanges. Options written or purchased are valued at the last sale price in the case of exchange-traded options. In the case of options traded in the over-the-counter market, valuation is the last asked price (options written) or the last bid price (options purchased). Securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Securities and assets for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Board of Directors of the Fund, including valuations furnished by a pricing service retained by the Fund, which may utilize a matrix system for valuations. The procedures of the pricing service and its valuations are reviewed by the officers of the Fund under the general supervision of the Board of Directors. (b) Derivative financial instruments--The Fund may engage in various portfolio strategies to seek to increase its return by hedging its portfolio against adverse movements in the debt markets. Losses may arise due to changes in the value of the contract or if the counterparty does not perform under the contract. * Financial futures contracts--The Fund may purchase or sell financial futures contracts and options on such futures contracts for the purpose of hedging the market risk on existing securities or the intended purchase of securities. Futures contracts are contracts for delayed delivery of securities at a specific future date and at a specific price or yield. Upon entering into a contract, the Fund deposits and maintains as collateral such initial margin as required by the exchange on which the transaction is effected. Pursuant to the contract, the Fund agrees to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in value of the contract. Such receipts or payments are known as variation margin and are recorded by the Fund as unrealized gains or losses. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. * Options--The Fund is authorized to write covered call options and purchase put options. When the Fund writes an option, an amount equal to the premium received by the Fund is reflected as an asset and an equivalent liability. The amount of the liability is subsequently marked to market to reflect the current market value of the option written. When a security is purchased or sold through an exercise of an option, the related premium paid (or received) is added to (or deducted from) the basis of the security acquired or deducted from (or added to) the proceeds of the security sold. When an option expires (or the Fund enters into a closing transaction), the Fund realizes a gain or loss on the option to the extent of the premiums received or paid (or gain or loss to the extent the cost of the closing transaction exceeds the premium paid or received). Written and purchased options are non-income producing investments. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 (c) Income taxes--It is the Fund's policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no Federal income tax provision is required. (d) Security transactions and investment income--Security transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered into (the trade dates). Interest income is recognized on the accrual basis. Discounts and market premiums are amortized into interest income. Realized gains and losses on security transactions are determined on the identified cost basis. (e) Offering costs--Direct expenses relating to the issuance of Common Stock resulting from reorganization were charged to capital. (f) Dividends and distributions--Dividends from net investment income are declared and paid monthly. Distributions of capital gains are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. 2. Investment Advisory Agreement and Transactions with Affiliates: The Fund has entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with Fund Asset Management, L.P. ("FAM"). The general partner of FAM is Princeton Services, Inc. ("PSI"), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. ("ML & Co."), which is the limited partner. FAM is responsible for the management of the Fund's portfolio and provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain other services necessary to the operations of the Fund. For such services, the Fund pays a monthly fee at an annual rate of 0.50% of the Fund's average weekly net assets, including proceeds from the issuance of Preferred Stock. Accounting services are provided to the Fund by FAM at cost. Certain officers and/or directors of the Fund are officers and/or directors of FAM, PSI, and/or ML & Co. 3. Investments: Purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities, for the six months ended April 30, 1999 were $307,363,665 and $326,920,629, respectively. Net realized gains for the six months ended April 30, 1999 and net unrealized gains as of April 30, 1999 were as follows: Realized Unrealized Gains Gains Long-term investments $ 7,273,951 $15,110,882 Financial futures contracts 354,306 -- ----------- ----------- Total $ 7,628,257 $15,110,882 =========== =========== As of April 30, 1999, net unrealized appreciation for Federal income tax purposes aggregated $15,110,882, of which $17,466,844 related to appreciated securities and $2,355,962 related to depreciated securities. The aggregate cost of investments at April 30, 1999 for Federal income tax purposes was $435,892,319. 4. Capital Stock Transactions: The Fund is authorized to issue 200,000,000 shares of capital stock, including Preferred Stock, par value $.10 per share, all of which were initially classified as Common Stock. The Board of Directors is authorized, however, to reclassify any unissued shares of capital stock without approval of the holders of Common Stock. Common Stock Shares issued and outstanding during the six months ended April 30, 1999 increased by 274,041 as a result of dividend reinvestment and during the year ended October 31, 1998 increased by 3,896,657 pursuant to a plan of reorganization and by 223,455 as a result of dividend reinvestment. Preferred Stock Auction Market Preferred Stock ("AMPS") are shares of Preferred Stock of the Fund, with a par value of $.05 per share and a liquidation preference of $25,000 per share, that entitle their holders to receive cash dividends at an annual rate that may MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (concluded) vary for the successive dividend periods. The yields in effect at April 30, 1999 were: Series A, 3.15%; Series B, 3.49%; and Series C, 2.74%. Shares issued and outstanding during the six months ended April 30, 1999 remained constant and during the year ended October 31, 1998 increased by 800 pursuant to a plan of reorganization. The Fund pays commissions to certain broker-dealers at the end of each auction at an annual rate ranging from 0.25% to 0.375%, calculated on the proceeds of each auction. For the six months ended April 30, 1999, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("MLPF&S"), an affiliate of FAM, earned $77,714 as commissions. 5. Acquisition of Taurus MuniCalifornia Holdings, Inc.: On February 9, 1998, the Fund acquired all of the net assets of Taurus MuniCalifornia Holdings, Inc. pursuant to an agreement and plan of reorganization. The acquisition was accomplished by a tax- free exchange of 5,189,572 Common Stock shares and 800 AMPS shares of Taurus MuniCalifornia Holdings, Inc. for 3,896,657 Common Stock shares and 800 AMPS shares of the Fund. Taurus MuniCalifornia Holdings, Inc.'s net assets on that date of $82,338,657, including $6,378,266 of unrealized appreciation and $944,239 of accumulated net realized capital losses, were combined with those of the Fund. The aggregate net assets of the Fund immediately after the acquisition amounted to $472,188,749. 6. Subsequent Event: On May 6, 1999, the Fund's Board of Directors declared an ordinary income dividend to Common Stock shareholders in the amount of $.068669 per share, payable on May 27, 1999 to shareholders of record as of May 21, 1999. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 QUALITY PROFILE The quality ratings of securities in the Fund as of April 30, 1999 were as follows: Percent of S&P Rating/Moody's Rating Net Assets AAA/Aaa 73.0% AA/Aa 15.1 A/A 2.9 BBB/Baa 2.3 NR (Not Rated) 1.3 Other++ 2.4 [FN] ++Temporary investments in short-term municipal securities. MuniYield California Fund, Inc. April 30, 1999 OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS Terry K. Glenn, President and Director James H. Bodurtha, Director Herbert I. London, Director Robert R. Martin, Director Joseph L. May, Director Andre F. Perold, Director Arthur Zeikel, Director Vincent R. Giordano, Senior Vice President Kenneth A. Jacob, Vice President Walter C. O'Connor, Vice President Donald C. Burke, Vice President and Treasurer Alice A. Pellegrino, Secretary Gerald M. Richard, Treasurer and Philip M. Mandel, Secretary of MuniYield California Fund, Inc. have recently retired. Their colleagues at Merrill Lynch Asset Management, L.P. join the Fund's Board of Directors in wishing Mr. Richard and Mr. Mandel well in their retirements. Custodian The Bank of New York 90 Washington Street New York, NY 10286 Transfer Agents Common Stock: The Bank of New York 101 Barclay Street New York, NY 10286 Preferred Stock: IBJ Whitehall Bank & Trust Company One State Street New York, NY 10004 NYSE Symbol MYC -----END PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----