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 811-21423
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
One Corporate Center
Rye, New York 10580-1422
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
Bruce N. Alpert
Gabelli Funds, LLC
One Corporate Center
Rye, New York 10580-1422
(Name and address of agent for service)
Registrants telephone number, including area code: 1-800-422-3554
Date of fiscal year end: December 31
Date of reporting period: June 30, 2018
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, 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20549-0609. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507.
Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.
The Report to Shareholders is attached herewith.
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Semiannual Report June 30, 2018
To Our Shareholders,
For the six months ended June 30, 2018, the net asset value (NAV) total return of The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust (the Fund) was (2.0)%, compared with a total return of 2.7% for the Standard & Poors (S&P) 500 Index. The total return for the Funds publicly traded shares was (0.8)%. The Funds NAV per share was $23.95, while the price of the publicly traded shares closed at $22.56 on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). See page below for additional performance information.
Enclosed are the financial statements, including the schedule of investments, as of June 30, 2018.
Comparative Results
Average Annual Returns through June 30, 2018 (a) (Unaudited)
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Since Inception (11/28/03) |
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Year to Date |
1 Year |
5 Year |
10 Year | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust |
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NAV Total Return (b) |
(2.03 | )% | 8.78 | % | 9.29 | % | 8.02 | % | 8.12 | % | |||||||||||||||||
Investment Total Return (c) |
(0.82 | ) | 9.58 | 10.76 | 10.00 | 8.19 | |||||||||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index |
2.65 | 14.37 | 13.42 | 10.17 | 8.90 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Dow Jones Industrial Average |
(0.73 | ) | 16.26 | 12.89 | 10.73 | 9.12 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Nasdaq Composite Index |
9.38 | 23.71 | 18.61 | 13.96 | 10.91 |
(a) | Returns represent past performance and do not guarantee future results. Investment returns and the principal value of an investment will fluctuate. 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. Performance returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. Visit www.gabelli.com for performance information as of the most recent month end. Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges,and expenses of the Fund before investing. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index of 30 large capitalization stocks. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite Indices are unmanaged indicators of stock market performance. Dividends are considered reinvested except for the Nasdaq Composite Index. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
(b) | Total returns and average annual returns reflect changes in the NAV per share and reinvestment of distributions at NAV on the ex-dividend date and adjustment for the spin-off and are net of expenses. Since inception return is based on an initial NAV of $19.06. |
(c) | Total returns and average annual returns reflect changes in closing market values on the NYSE, reinvestment of distributions and adjustment for the spin-off. Since inception return is based on an initial offering price of $20.00. |
Summary of Portfolio Holdings (Unaudited)
The following table presents portfolio holdings as a percent of total investments as of June 30, 2018:
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
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-Q. Shareholders may obtain this information at www.gabelli.com or by calling the Fund at 800-GABELLI (800- 422- 3554). The Funds Form N-Q is available on the SECs website at www.sec.gov and may also be reviewed and copied at the SECs 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 Funds proxy voting policies, procedures, and how the 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 SECs website at www.sec.gov.
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The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
3
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments (Continued) June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
4
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments (Continued) June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
5
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments (Continued) June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
6
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments (Continued) June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
7
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments (Continued) June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
8
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments (Continued) June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
9
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Schedule of Investments (Continued) June 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
10
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
11
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Statements of Changes in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders
Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Year Ended December 31, 2017 | |||||||||
Operations: |
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Net investment income |
$ | 17,495,204 | $ | 26,555,452 | ||||||
Net realized gain on investments, securities sold short, and foreign currency transactions |
74,121,082 | 100,297,972 | ||||||||
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments, securities sold short, and foreign currency translations |
(120,412,382 | ) | 236,425,188 | |||||||
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Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations |
(28,796,096 | ) | 363,278,612 | |||||||
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Distributions to Preferred Shareholders: |
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Net investment income |
(3,657,993 | )* | (5,209,062 | ) | ||||||
Net realized capital gain |
(8,711,786 | )* | (17,802,379 | ) | ||||||
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Total Distributions to Preferred Shareholders. |
(12,369,779 | ) | (23,011,441 | ) | ||||||
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Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders Resulting from Operations |
(41,165,875 | ) | 340,267,171 | |||||||
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Distributions to Common Shareholders: |
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Net investment income |
(11,375,675 | )* | (23,259,325 | ) | ||||||
Net realized capital gain |
(43,029,726 | )* | (79,490,563 | ) | ||||||
Return of capital |
| (6,060,914 | ) | |||||||
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Total Distributions to Common Shareholders |
(54,405,401 | ) | (108,810,802 | ) | ||||||
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Fund Share Transactions: |
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Adjustment to offering costs for preferred shares |
| 9,373 | ||||||||
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Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders |
(95,571,276 | ) | 231,465,742 | |||||||
Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders: |
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Beginning of year |
2,069,870,800 | 1,838,405,058 | ||||||||
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End of period (including undistributed net investment income of $2,218,884 and $0, respectively) |
$ | 1,974,299,524 | $ | 2,069,870,800 | ||||||
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* | Based on year to date book income. Amounts are subject to change and recharacterization at year end. |
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
12
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Financial Highlights
Selected data for a common share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each period:
Six Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
June 30, 2018 | Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Performance: |
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Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 25.11 | $ | 22.30 | $ | 21.07 | $ | 23.57 | $ | 24.18 | $ | 18.58 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net investment income |
0.21 | 0.32 | 0.36 | 0.30 | 0.41 | 0.36 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments, securities sold short, and foreign currency transactions |
(0.56 | ) | 4.09 | 2.45 | (1.39 | ) | 1.54 | 6.45 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total from investment operations |
(0.35 | ) | 4.41 | 2.81 | (1.09 | ) | 1.95 | 6.81 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Distributions to Preferred Shareholders: (a) |
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Net investment income |
(0.04 | )* | (0.06 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.05 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain |
(0.11 | )* | (0.22 | ) | (0.17 | ) | (0.12 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (0.13 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total distributions to preferred shareholders |
(0.15 | ) | (0.28 | ) | (0.22 | ) | (0.18 | ) | (0.18 | ) | (0.18 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Attributable to Common Shareholders Resulting from Operations |
(0.50 | ) | 4.13 | 2.59 | (1.27 | ) | 1.77 | 6.63 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Distributions to Common Shareholders: |
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Net investment income |
(0.14 | )* | (0.28 | ) | (0.31 | ) | (0.31 | ) | (0.39 | ) | (0.31 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net realized gain |
(0.52 | )* | (0.97 | ) | (1.01 | ) | (0.65 | ) | (1.97 | ) | (0.72 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Return of capital |
| (0.07 | ) | | (0.28 | ) | (0.02 | ) | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total distributions to common shareholders |
(0.66 | ) | (1.32 | ) | (1.32 | ) | (1.24 | ) | (2.38 | ) | (1.03 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Fund Share Transactions: |
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Increase in net asset value from repurchase of common shares |
| | 0.00 | (b) | 0.01 | | 0.00 | (b) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Offering costs and adjustment to offering costs for preferred shares charged to paid-in capital |
| 0.00 | (b) | (0.04 | ) | | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Total from Fund share transactions |
| 0.00 | (b) | (0.04 | ) | 0.01 | | 0.00 | (b) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Net Asset Value Attributable to Common Shareholders, End of Period |
$ | 23.95 | $ | 25.11 | $ | 22.30 | $ | 21.07 | $ | 23.57 | $ | 24.18 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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NAV total return |
(2.03 | )% | 19.14 | % | 12.70 | % | (5.59 | )% | 7.48 | % | 36.47 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Market value, end of period |
$ | 22.56 | $ | 23.41 | $ | 20.04 | $ | 18.46 | $ | 21.66 | $ | 22.17 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Investment total return |
(0.82 | )% | 24.11 | % | 16.47 | % | (9.32 | )% | 8.82 | % | 44.38 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Ratios to Average Net Assets and Supplemental Data: |
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Net assets including liquidation value of preferred shares, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 2,501,779 | $ | 2,629,129 | $ | 2,397,663 | $ | 2,198,198 | $ | 2,410,290 | $ | 2,460,474 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets attributable to common shares, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 1,974,300 | $ | 2,069,871 | $ | 1,838,405 | $ | 1,738,940 | $ | 1,951,032 | $ | 2,001,217 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets attributable to common shares before preferred share distributions |
1.74 | %(c) | 1.38 | % | 1.69 | % | 1.60 | % | 1.71 | % | 1.65 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets attributable to common shares before
fees |
1.36 | %(c)(e) | 1.38 | %(e) | 1.39 | %(e) | 1.33 | %(e) | 1.36 | % | 1.34 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets attributable to common shares net of advisory fee reduction, if any (f) |
1.14 | %(c)(e) | 1.38 | %(e) | 1.39 | %(e) | 1.09 | %(e) | 1.36 | % | 1.34 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
6.1 | % | 13.3 | % | 15.6 | % | 8.1 | % | 18.4 | % | 15.8 | % |
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
13
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Financial Highlights (Continued)
Selected data for a common share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each period:
Six Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
June 30, 2018 | Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative Preferred Shares: |
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5.875% Series A Preferred |
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Liquidation value, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 76,201 | $ | 76,201 | $ | 76,201 | $ | 76,201 | $ | 76,201 | $ | 76,200 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total shares outstanding (in 000s) |
3,048 | 3,048 | 3,048 | 3,048 | 3,048 | 3,048 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation preference per share |
$ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Average market value (g) |
$ | 25.68 | $ | 26.31 | $ | 26.32 | $ | 25.63 | $ | 25.26 | $ | 25.31 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset coverage per share(h) |
$ | 118.57 | $ | 117.53 | $ | 107.18 | $ | 119.66 | $ | 131.21 | $ | 133.94 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Series B Auction Market Preferred |
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Liquidation value, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total shares outstanding (in 000s) |
4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation preference per share |
$ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation value (i) |
$ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset coverage per share(h) |
$ | 118,572 | $ | 117,528 | $ | 107,181 | $ | 119,660 | $ | 131,206 | $ | 133,938 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Series C Auction Market Preferred |
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Liquidation value, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 108,000 | $ | 108,000 | $ | 108,000 | $ | 108,000 | $ | 108,000 | $ | 108,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total shares outstanding (in 000s) |
4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation preference per share |
$ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation value (i) |
$ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset coverage per share(h) |
$ | 118,572 | $ | 117,528 | $ | 107,181 | $ | 119,660 | $ | 131,206 | $ | 133,938 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
6.000% Series D Preferred |
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Liquidation value, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 31,779 | $ | 63,557 | $ | 63,557 | $ | 63,557 | $ | 63,557 | $ | 63,557 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total shares outstanding (in 000s) |
1,271 | 2,542 | 2,542 | 2,542 | 2,542 | 2,542 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation preference per share |
$ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Average market value (g) |
$ | 25.99 | $ | 26.57 | $ | 26.58 | $ | 25.70 | $ | 25.53 | $ | 26.25 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset coverage per share(h) |
$ | 118.57 | $ | 117.53 | $ | 107.18 | $ | 119.66 | $ | 131.21 | $ | 133.94 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Series E Auction Rate Preferred |
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Liquidation value, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 121,500 | $ | 121,500 | $ | 121,500 | $ | 121,500 | $ | 121,500 | $ | 121,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total shares outstanding (in 000s) |
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation preference per share |
$ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation value (i) |
$ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset coverage per share(h) |
$ | 118,572 | $ | 117,528 | $ | 107,181 | $ | 119,660 | $ | 131,206 | $ | 133,938 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5.250% Series G Preferred |
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Liquidation value, end of period (in 000s) |
$ | 100,000 | $ | 100,000 | $ | 100,000 | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total shares outstanding (in 000s) |
4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | | | | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Liquidation preference per share |
$ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | $ | 25.00 | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Average market value (g) |
$ | 25.02 | $ | 25.29 | $ | 25.20 | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset coverage per share(h) |
$ | 118.57 | $ | 117.53 | $ | 107.18 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asset Coverage (j) |
474 | % | 470 | % | 429 | % | 479 | % | 525 | % | 536 | % |
| Based on net asset value per share and reinvestment of distributions at net asset value on the ex-dividend date. 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 obtained under the Funds dividend reinvestment plan. 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) | Calculated based on average common shares outstanding on the record dates throughout the years. |
(b) | Amount represents less than $0.005 per share. |
(c) | Annualized. |
(d) | Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets including liquidation value of preferred shares before fee waived for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2013 would have been 1.07%, 1.07%, 1.07%, 1.07%, 1.10%, and 1.07%, respectively. |
(e) | The Fund received credits from a designated broker who agreed to pay certain Fund operating expenses. For the six months ended June 30, 2018 and the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, there was no impact on the expense ratios. |
(f) | Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets including liquidation value of preferred shares net of advisory fee reduction for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2013 would have been 0.89%, 1.07%, 1.07%, 0.88%, 1.10%, and 1.07%, respectively. |
(g) | Based on weekly prices. |
(h) | Asset coverage per share is calculated by combining all series of preferred shares. |
(i) | Since February 2008, the weekly auctions have failed. Holders that have submitted orders have not been able to sell any or all of their shares in the auction. |
(j) | Asset coverage is calculated by combining all series of preferred shares. |
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
14
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
1. Organization. The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust (the Fund) currently operates as a diversified closed-end management investment company organized as a Delaware statutory trust on November 18, 2003 and registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act). Investment operations commenced on November 28, 2003.
The Funds investment objective is to provide a high level of total return on its assets with an emphasis on dividends and income. The Fund will attempt to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its assets in dividend paying securities (such as common and preferred stock) or other income producing securities (such as fixed income debt securities and securities that are convertible into equity securities).
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 markets 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 security is 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 Dividend & Income 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 Funds 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 Boards determinations as to the fair value of investments). |
A financial instruments 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 Funds investments in securities by inputs used to value the Funds investments as of June 30, 2018 is as follows:
Valuation Inputs | ||||||||||||||||||||
Level 1 Quoted Prices |
Level 2 Other Significant Observable Inputs |
Level 3 Significant Unobservable Inputs |
Total Market Value at 6/30/18 | |||||||||||||||||
INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES: |
||||||||||||||||||||
ASSETS (Market Value): |
||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stocks: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Aerospace |
$ | 64,766,518 | | $ | 137,274 | $ | 64,903,792 | |||||||||||||
Energy and Utilities: Integrated |
33,419,532 | | 58,565 | 33,478,097 | ||||||||||||||||
Entertainment |
41,888,246 | $ | 327,349 | | 42,215,595 | |||||||||||||||
Food and Beverage |
350,622,400 | 1,145,372 | | 351,767,772 | ||||||||||||||||
Other Industries (a) |
1,969,577,393 | | | 1,969,577,393 | ||||||||||||||||
Total Common Stocks |
2,460,274,089 | 1,472,721 | 195,839 | 2,461,942,649 | ||||||||||||||||
Closed-End Funds |
3,660,500 | | | 3,660,500 | ||||||||||||||||
Convertible Preferred Stocks (a) |
2,620,850 | 5,985,000 | | 8,605,850 | ||||||||||||||||
Preferred Stocks (a) |
106,611 | 2,489,809 | | 2,596,420 | ||||||||||||||||
Rights (a) |
| 7,226 | | 7,226 | ||||||||||||||||
Convertible Corporate Bonds (a) |
| 1,650,863 | | 1,650,863 | ||||||||||||||||
Corporate Bonds (a) |
| 49,250 | | 49,250 | ||||||||||||||||
U.S. Government Obligations |
| 23,189,224 | | 23,189,224 | ||||||||||||||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES ASSETS |
$ | 2,466,662,050 | $ | 34,844,093 | $ | 195,839 | $ | 2,501,701,982 |
(a) | Please refer to the Schedule of Investments for the industry classifications of these portfolio holdings. |
During the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Fund had transfers of $1,263,603 or 0.06% and $306,720 or 0.02% of net assets as of December 31, 2017 from Level 1 to Level 2 and Level 2 to Level 1, respectively. Transfers from Level 1 to Level 2 and Level 2 to Level 1 are due to a decline or an increase in market activity, e.g., frequency of trades, respectively, which resulted in a decrease or an increase in available market inputs to determine price. The Funds policy is to recognize transfers among Levels as of the beginning of the reporting period.
16
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
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 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.
Securities Sold Short. The Fund may enter into short sale transactions. Short selling involves selling securities that may or may not be owned and, at times, borrowing the same securities for delivery to the purchaser, with an obligation to replace such borrowed securities at a later date. The proceeds received from short sales are recorded as liabilities and the Fund records an unrealized gain or loss to the extent of the difference between the proceeds received and the value of an open short position on the day of determination. The Fund records a realized gain or loss when the short position is closed out. By entering into a short sale, the Fund bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security sold short. Dividends on short sales are recorded as an expense by the Fund on the ex-dividend date and interest expense is recorded on the accrual basis. The broker retains collateral for the value of the open positions, which is adjusted periodically as the value of the position fluctuates.
Investments in Other Investment Companies. The Fund may invest, from time to time, in shares of other investment companies (or entities that would be considered investment companies but are excluded from the definition pursuant to certain exceptions under the 1940 Act) (the Acquired Funds) in accordance with the 1940 Act and related rules. Shareholders in the Fund would bear the pro rata portion of the periodic expenses of the Acquired Funds in addition to the Funds expenses. For the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Funds pro rata portion of the periodic expenses charged by the Acquired Funds was less than 1 basis point.
17
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
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.
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. For restricted securities the Fund held as of June 30, 2018, refer to the Schedule of Investments.
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. 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.
Custodian Fee Credits. When cash balances are maintained in the custody account, the Fund receives credits which are used to offset custodian fees. The gross expenses paid under the custody arrangement are included in custodian fees in the Statement of Operations with the corresponding expense offset, if any, shown as Custodian fee credits.
18
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
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 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 Funds current common share distribution policy, the Fund declares and pays monthly distributions from net investment income, capital gains, and paid-in capital. The actual source of the distribution is determined after the end of the calendar 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. The Funds current distribution policy may restrict the Funds ability to pass through to shareholders all of its net realized long term capital gains as a Capital Gain Distribution, subject to the maximum federal income tax rate and may cause such gains to be treated as ordinary income. 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 Funds distribution level, taking into consideration the Funds NAV and the financial market environment. The Funds distribution policy is subject to modification by the Board at any time.
Distributions to shareholders of the Funds 5.875% Series A Preferred Shares, Series B Auction Market Preferred Shares, Series C Auction Market Preferred Shares, 6.000% Series D Preferred Shares, Series E Auction Rate Preferred Shares, and 5.250% Series G Preferred Shares (Preferred Shares) are recorded on a daily basis and are determined as described in Note 5.
The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:
Common | Preferred | |||||||
Distributions paid from: |
||||||||
Ordinary income (inclusive of short term gain) |
$ | 23,259,325 | $ | 5,209,062 | ||||
Net long term capital gains |
79,490,563 | 17,802,379 | ||||||
Return of capital |
6,060,914 | | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total distributions paid |
$ | 108,810,802 | $ | 23,011,441 | ||||
|
|
|
|
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.
19
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
The following summarizes the tax cost of investments and the related net unrealized appreciation at June 30, 2018:
Cost | Gross Unrealized Appreciation |
Gross Unrealized Depreciation |
Net Unrealized Appreciation |
|||||||||||||
Investments |
$ | 1,723,350,645 | $ | 866,658,161 | $ | (88,306,824 | ) | $ | 778,351,337 |
The Fund is required to evaluate tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing the Funds 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. During the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Fund did not incur any income tax, interest, or penalty. As of June 30, 2018, the Adviser has reviewed all open tax years and concluded that there was no impact to the Funds net assets or results of operations. The Funds federal and state tax returns for the prior three fiscal years remain open, subject to examination. On an ongoing basis, the Adviser will monitor the Funds 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 Funds average weekly net assets including the liquidation value of preferred shares. In accordance with the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser provides a continuous investment program for the Funds portfolio and oversees the administration of all aspects of the Funds business and affairs.
The Adviser has agreed to reduce the management fee on the incremental assets attributable to the Series A, Series B, Series C, Series D, and Series E Preferred Shares if the total return of the NAV of the common shares of the Fund, including distributions and advisory fee subject to reduction, does not exceed the stated dividend rate of each particular series of the Preferred Shares for the year. The Funds total return on the NAV of the common shares is monitored on a monthly basis to assess whether the total return on the NAV of the common shares exceeds the stated dividend rate or corresponding swap rate of each particular series of Preferred Shares for the period. For the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Funds total return on the NAV of the common shares did not exceed the stated dividend rate or corresponding swap rate on each of the outstanding Preferred Shares. Thus, advisory fees with respect to the liquidation value of the Preferred Shares were reduced by $2,257,391. Advisory fees were accrued on Series G.
During the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Fund paid $47,968 in brokerage commissions on security trades to G.research, LLC, an affiliate of the Adviser.
During the six months ended June 30, 2018, 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 $8,330.
The cost of calculating the Funds NAV per share is a Fund expense pursuant to the Advisory Agreement. During the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Fund accrued $22,500 in accounting fees in the Statement of Operations.
20
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
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, 2018 the Fund accrued $121,400 in payroll expenses in the Statement of Operations.
The Fund pays each Trustee who is not considered an affiliated person an annual retainer of $18,000 plus $2,000 for each Board meeting attended. Each Trustee is reimbursed by the Fund for any out of pocket expenses incurred in attending meetings. All Board committee members receive $1,000 per meeting attended, the Audit Committee Chairman receives an annual fee of $3,000, and the Nominating Committee Chairman and the Lead Trustee each receives an annual fee of $2,000. A Trustee may receive a single meeting fee, allocated among the participating funds, for participation in certain meetings held on behalf of multiple funds. Trustees who are directors or employees of the Adviser or an affiliated company receive no compensation or expense reimbursement from the Fund.
4. Portfolio Securities. Purchases and sales of securities during the six months ended June 30, 2018, other than short term securities and U.S. Government obligations, aggregated $156,278,779, and $212,360,237, respectively.
5. 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 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, 2018 and the year ended December 31, 2017, the Fund did not repurchase any common shares.
As of June 30, 2018, the Fund has $400 million available for issuing additional common or preferred shares or notes under the current shelf registration.
The Funds 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. Dividends on the Preferred Shares are cumulative. The Fund is required by the 1940 Act and by the Statements 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 Series A, Series B, Series C, Series D, Series E, and Series G Preferred Shares at redemption prices of $25, $25,000, $25,000, $25, $25,000, and $25, respectively, per share plus an amount equal to the accumulated and unpaid dividends whether or not declared on such shares in order to meet these requirements. Additionally, failure to meet the foregoing asset coverage requirements could restrict the Funds ability to pay dividends to common shareholders and could lead to sales of portfolio securities at inopportune times. The income received on the Funds assets may vary in a manner unrelated to the fixed and variable rates, which could have either a beneficial or detrimental impact on net investment income and gains available to common shareholders.
For Series B, Series C, and Series E Preferred Shares, the dividend rates, as set by the auction process that is generally held every seven days, are expected to vary with short term interest rates. Since February 2008, the number of Series B, Series C, and Series E Preferred Shares subject to bid orders by potential holders
21
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
has been less than the number of shares of Series B, Series C, and Series E Preferred Shares subject to sell orders. Holders that have submitted sell orders have not been able to sell any or all of the Series B, Series C, and Series E Preferred Shares for which they have submitted sell orders. Therefore the weekly auctions have failed, and the dividend rate has been the maximum rate. The current maximum rate for Series B, Series C, and Series E Preferred Shares is 150, 150, and 250, respectively, basis points greater than the seven day ICE LIBOR rate on the date of such auction. Existing Series B, Series C, and Series E Preferred shareholders may submit an order to hold, bid, or sell such shares on each auction date, or trade their shares in the secondary market. There were no redemptions of Series B, Series C, and Series E Preferred Shares during the six months ended June 30, 2018.
The Fund may redeem in whole or in part the 5.875% Series A and 6.000% Series D Preferred Shares at the redemption price at any time. Commencing July 1, 2021 and at any time thereafter, the Fund, at its option, may redeem the 5.250% Series G Cumulative Preferred Shares in whole or in part at the redemption price. The Board has authorized the repurchase of Series A, Series D, and Series G Preferred Shares in the open market at prices less than the $25 liquidation value per share. During the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Fund redeemed and retired 1,271,148 shares of the 6.000% Series D Preferred Stock at the liquidation value of $31,778,700. During the six months ended June 30, 2018 and the year ended December 31, 2017, the Fund did not repurchase any shares of Series A or Series G Preferred Shares.
The Fund has the authority to purchase its auction rate and auction market preferred shares through negotiated private transactions. The Fund is not obligated to purchase any dollar amount or number of auction rate or auction market preferred shares, and the timing and amount of any auction rate or auction market preferred shares purchased will depend on market conditions, share price, capital availability, and other factors. The Fund is not soliciting holders to sell these shares nor recommending that holders offer them to the Fund. Any offers can be accepted or rejected in the Funds discretion.
The following table summarizes Cumulative Preferred Share information:
Series | Issue Date | Authorized | Number of Shares Outstanding at 06/30/18 |
Net Proceeds |
2018 Dividend Rate Range |
Dividend Rate at 06/30/18 |
Accrued Dividend at 06/30/18 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
A 5.875% |
October 12, 2004 | 3,200,000 | 3,048,019 | $ | 77,280,971 | Fixed Rate | 5.875 | % | $ | 62,177 | |||||||||||||||||||
B Auction Market |
October 12, 2004 | 4,000 | 3,600 | 98,858,617 | 2.964% to 3.487% | 3.487 | % | 26,153 | |||||||||||||||||||||
C Auction Market |
October 12, 2004 | 4,800 | 4,320 | 118,630,341 | 2.965% to 3.482% | 3.480 | % | 10,440 | |||||||||||||||||||||
D 6.000% |
November 3, 2005 | 2,600,000 | 1,271,148 | 62,617,239 | Fixed Rate | 6.000 | % | 26,482 | |||||||||||||||||||||
E Auction Rate |
November 3, 2005 | 5,400 | 4,860 | 133,379,387 | 3.965% to 4.953% | 4.953 | % | 33,433 | |||||||||||||||||||||
G 5.250% |
July 1, 2016 | 4,000,000 | 4,000,000 | 96,634,565 | Fixed Rate | 5.250 | % | 72,917 |
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 shares 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 Shares, voting as a single class, will be required to approve any plan of reorganization adversely affecting the Preferred Shares, and the approval of two-thirds of each class, voting separately, of the Funds 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 Shares and a
22
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
majority (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Funds outstanding voting securities are required to approve certain other actions, including changes in the Funds investment objectives or fundamental investment policies.
6. Indemnifications. The Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of indemnifications. The Funds 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 Funds existing contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.
7. Subsequent Events. Management has evaluated the impact on the Fund of all subsequent events occurring through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
23
The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
Certifications
The Funds Chief Executive Officer has certified to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) that, as of May 23, 2018, 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 Funds principal executive officer and principal financial officer that relate to the Funds disclosure in such reports and that are required by Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act.
Shareholder Meeting May 14, 2018 Final Results
The Funds Annual Meeting of Shareholders was held on May 14, 2018 in Greenwich, Connecticut. At that meeting, common and preferred shareholders, voting together as a single class, elected Salvatore M. Salibello and Edward T. Tokar as Trustees of the Fund. A total of 82,879,876 votes and 83,025,481 votes were cast in favor of these Trustees, and a total of 2,138,949 votes and 1,993,285 votes were withheld for these Trustees, respectively.
In addition, preferred shareholders, voting as a separate class, elected James P. Conn as a Trustee of the Fund. A total of 8,055,167 votes were cast in favor of this Trustee and a total of 275,258 votes were withheld for this Trustee.
Mario J. Gabelli, Anthony J. Colavita, Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr., Michael J. Melarkey, Anthonie C. van Ekris, Susan V. Watson, and Salvatore J. Zizza continue to serve in their capacities as Trustees of the Fund.
Effective May 16, 2018, Kuni Nakamura was appointed to the Board.
We thank you for your participation and appreciate your continued support.
We have separated the portfolio managers commentary from the financial statements and investment portfolio due to corporate governance regulations stipulated by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. We have done this to ensure that the content of the portfolio managers commentary is unrestricted. Both the commentary and the financial statements, including the portfolio of investments, will be available on our website at www.gabelli.com.
The Net Asset Value per share appears in the Publicly Traded Funds column, under the heading General Equity Funds, in Mondays The Wall Street Journal. It is also listed in Barrons Mutual Funds/Closed End Funds section under the heading General 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 XGDVX.
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 Funds 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.
24
THE GABELLI DIVIDEND & INCOME 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 Gabelli/GAMCO 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 Gabelli/GAMCO Fund Complex. Mr. Dreyer received a BSE from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA degree from Columbia Business School. |
Sarah Donnelly joined Gabelli in 1999 as a junior research analyst working with the consumer staples and media analysts. Currently she is a Portfolio Manager of Gabelli Funds, LLC, a Senior Vice President and the Food, Household, and Personal Care products research analyst for Gabelli & Company. In 2013, she was named the Health & Wellness research platform leader. Ms. Donnelly received a BS in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and minor in History from Fordham University. | ||||
Robert D. Leininger, CFA, joined GAMCO Investors, Inc. in 1993 as an equity analyst. Subsequently, he was a partner and portfolio manager at Rorer Asset Management before rejoining GAMCO in 2010 where he currently serves as a portfolio manager of Gabelli Funds, LLC. Mr. Leininger is a magna cum laude graduate of Amherst College with a degree in Economics and holds an MBA degree from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. | ||||
Jeffrey J. Jonas, CFA, joined Gabelli in 2003 as a research analyst focusing on companies across the healthcare industry. In 2006, he began serving as a portfolio manager of Gabelli Funds, LLC and manages several funds within the Gabelli/GAMCO Fund Complex. Mr. Jonas was a Presidential Scholar at Boston College, where he received a BS in Finance and Management Information Systems. | ||||
Brian C. Sponheimer is a portfolio manager and research analyst, responsible for coverage of automotive, trucking, and machinery stocks. In 2010, 2011, and 2016, Brian was recognized by various financial publications, including the Wall Street Journal and the Financial Times, as a Best on the Street analyst. He began his business career in institutional equities at CIBC World Markets in New York and Boston. Brian graduated cum laude from Harvard University with a BA in Government and received an MBA in Finance and Economics from Columbia Business School. |
Regina M. Pitaro is a Managing Director and Head of Institutional Marketing at GAMCO Investors, Inc. Ms. Pitaro joined the firm in 1984 and coordinates the organizations focus with consultants and plan sponsors. She also serves as a Managing Director and Director of GAMCO Asset Management, Inc., and serves as a portfolio manager for Gabelli Funds, LLC. Ms. Pitaro holds an MBA in Finance from the Columbia University Graduate School of Business, a Masters degree in Anthropology from Loyola University of Chicago, and a Bachelors degree from Fordham University. | ||||
Howard F. Ward, CFA, joined Gabelli Funds in 1995 and currently serves as GAMCOs Chief Investment Officer of Growth Equities as well as a Gabelli Funds, LLC portfolio manager for several funds within the Gabelli/GAMCO Fund Complex. Prior to joining Gabelli, Mr. Ward served as Managing Director and Lead Portfolio Manager for several Scudder mutual funds. He also was an Investment Officer in the Institutional Investment Department with Brown Brothers, Harriman & Co. Mr. Ward received his BA in Economics from Northwestern University. |
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 of this form. |
(b) | Not applicable. |
Item 7. | Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies. |
Not applicable.
Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.
Effective May 30, 2018, Howard F. Ward was named a portfolio manager of the Fund. Mr. Ward joined Gabelli Funds in 1995 and currently serves as GAMCOs Chief Investment Officer of Growth Equities as well as a Gabelli Funds, LLC portfolio manager for several funds within the Gabelli/GAMCO Fund Complex. Prior to joining Gabelli, Mr. Ward served as Managing Director and Lead Portfolio Manager for several Scudder mutual funds. He also was an Investment Officer in the Institutional Investment Department with Brown Brothers, Harriman & Co. Mr. Ward received his BA in Economics from Northwestern University.
There have been no other changes to the portfolio management team since December 31, 2017.
MANAGEMENT OF OTHER ACCOUNTS
The table below shows the number of other accounts managed by Mr. Ward and the total assets in each of the following categories: registered investment companies, other pooled investment vehicles and other accounts as of December 31, 2017. For each category, the table also shows the number of accounts and the total assets in the accounts with respect to which the advisory fee is based on account performance.
Name of Portfolio Manager | Type of Accounts |
Total No. of Accounts Managed |
Total Assets |
No. of Accounts where Advisory Fee is Based on Performance |
Total Assets in Accounts where Advisory Fee is Based on Performance | |||||
Howard F. Ward | Registered Investment Companies: | 2 | $698.6 million | 0 | $0 | |||||
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles: | 0 | $0 | 0 | $0 | ||||||
Other Accounts: |
18 | $138.5 million | 0 | $0 |
POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
As reflected above, the Portfolio Managers manage accounts in addition to the Trust. Actual or apparent conflicts of interest may arise when a Portfolio Manager also has day to day management responsibilities with respect to one or more other accounts. These potential conflicts include:
ALLOCATION OF LIMITED TIME AND ATTENTION. As indicated above, the Portfolio Managers manage multiple accounts. As a result, he/she will not be able to devote all of their time to the management of the Trust. The Portfolio Managers, therefore, may not be able to formulate as
complete a strategy or identify equally attractive investment opportunities for each of those accounts as might be the case if he/she were to devote all of their attention to the management of only the Trust.
ALLOCATION OF LIMITED INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES. As indicated above, the Portfolio Managers manage accounts with investment strategies and/or policies that are similar to the Trust. In these cases, if the Portfolio Manager identifies an investment opportunity that may be suitable for multiple accounts, a fund may not be able to take full advantage of that opportunity because the opportunity may be allocated among all or many of these accounts or other accounts managed primarily by other Portfolio Managers of the Adviser, and their affiliates. In addition, in the event a Portfolio Manager determines to purchase a security for more than one account in an aggregate amount that may influence the market price of the security, accounts that purchased or sold the security first may receive a more favorable price than accounts that made subsequent transactions.
SELECTION OF BROKER/DEALERS. Because of Mr. Gabellis indirect majority ownership interest in G.research, LLC, he may have an incentive to use G.research to execute portfolio transactions for a fund.
PURSUIT OF DIFFERING STRATEGIES. At times, the Portfolio Managers may determine that an investment opportunity may be appropriate for only some of the accounts for which he/she exercises investment responsibility, or may decide that certain of the funds or accounts should take differing positions with respect to a particular security. In these cases, the Portfolio Manager may execute differing or opposite transactions for one or more accounts which may affect the market price of the security or the execution of the transaction, or both, to the detriment of one or more other accounts.
VARIATION IN COMPENSATION. A conflict of interest may arise where the financial or other benefits available to the Portfolio Manager differs among the accounts that they manage. If the structure of the Advisers management fee or the Portfolio Managers compensation differs among accounts (such as where certain accounts pay higher management fees or performance-based management fees), the portfolio managers may be motivated to favor certain accounts over others. The portfolio managers also may be motivated to favor accounts in which they have an investment interest, or in which the Adviser, or their affiliates have investment interests. Similarly, the desire to maintain assets under management or to enhance a Portfolio Managers performance record or to derive other rewards, financial or otherwise, could influence the Portfolio Manager in affording preferential treatment to those accounts that could most significantly benefit the Portfolio Manager. For example, as reflected above, if the Portfolio Manager manages accounts which have performance fee arrangements, certain portions of his/her compensation will depend on the achievement of performance milestones on those accounts. The Portfolio Manager could be incented to afford preferential treatment to those accounts and thereby be subject to a potential conflict of interest.
The Adviser, and the Funds have adopted compliance policies and procedures that are designed to address the various conflicts of interest that may arise for the Adviser and their staff members. However, there is no guarantee that such policies and procedures will be able to detect and prevent every situation in which an actual or potential conflict may arise.
COMPENSATION STRUCTURE FOR MARIO J. GABELLI
Mr. Gabelli receives incentive-based variable compensation based on a percentage of net revenues received by the Adviser for managing the Trust. Net revenues are determined by deducting from gross
investment management fees the firms expenses (other than Mr. Gabellis compensation) allocable to this Trust. Five closed-end registered investment companies (including this Trust) managed by Mr. Gabelli have arrangements whereby the Adviser will only receive its investment advisory fee attributable to the liquidation value of outstanding preferred stock (and Mr. Gabelli would only receive his percentage of such advisory fee) if certain performance levels are met. Additionally, he receives similar incentive based variable compensation for managing other accounts within the firm and its affiliates. This method of compensation is based on the premise that superior long-term performance in managing a portfolio should be rewarded with higher compensation as a result of growth of assets through appreciation and net investment activity. The level of compensation is not determined with specific reference to the performance of any account against any specific benchmark. One of the other closed-end registered investment companies managed by Mr. Gabelli has a performance (fulcrum) fee arrangement for which his compensation is adjusted up or down based on the performance of the investment company relative to an index. Mr. Gabelli manages other accounts with performance fees. Compensation for managing these accounts has two components. One component is based on a percentage of net revenues to the investment adviser for managing the account. The second component is based on absolute performance of the account, with respect to which a percentage of such performance fee is paid to Mr. Gabelli. As an executive officer of the Advisers parent company, GBL, Mr. Gabelli also receives ten percent of the net operating profits of the parent company. He receives no base salary, no annual bonus, and no stock options.
COMPENSATION STRUCTURE FOR THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OTHER THAN MR. GABELLI
The compensation for the Portfolio Managers other than Mr. Gabelli for the Trust is structured to enable the Adviser to attract and retain highly qualified professionals in a competitive environment. The Portfolio Managers other than Mr. Gabelli receive a compensation package that includes a minimum draw or base salary, equity-based incentive compensation via awards of restricted stock, and incentive based variable compensation based on a percentage of net revenue received by the Adviser for managing the Trust to the extent that the amount exceeds a minimum level of compensation. Net revenues are determined by deducting from gross investment management fees certain of the firms expenses (other than the Portfolio Managers compensation) allocable to the Trust (the incentive-based variable compensation for managing other accounts is also based on a percentage of net revenues to the investment adviser for managing the account). This method of compensation is based on the premise that superior long-term performance in managing a portfolio should be rewarded with higher compensation as a result of growth of assets through appreciation and net investment activity. The level of equity-based incentive and incentive-based variable compensation is based on an evaluation by the Advisers parent, GBL, of quantitative and qualitative performance evaluation criteria. This evaluation takes into account, in a broad sense, the performance of the accounts managed by the Portfolio Managers, but the level of compensation is not determined with specific reference to the performance of any account against any specific benchmark. Generally, greater consideration is given to the performance of larger accounts and to longer term performance over smaller accounts and short-term performance.
OWNERSHIP OF SHARES IN THE FUND
Howard F. Ward owned $0 of shares of the Fund as of December 31, 2017.
Item 9. | Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers. |
REGISTRANT PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Period
|
(a) Total Number
of
|
(b) Average Price
Paid
|
(c) Total Number of
|
(d) Maximum Number (or
| ||||
Month #1 01/01/2018 through 01/31/2018 |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common 82,432,426
Preferred Series A 3,048,019
Preferred Series D 2,542,296
Preferred Series G 4,000,000
| ||||
Month #2 02/01/2018 through 02/28/2018 |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common 82,432,426
Preferred Series A 3,048,019
Preferred Series D 2,542,296
Preferred Series G 4,000,000
| ||||
Month #3 03/01/2018 through 03/31/2018 |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common 82,432,426
Preferred Series A 3,048,019
Preferred Series D 2,542,296
Preferred Series G 4,000,000
| ||||
Month #4 04/01/2018 through 04/30/2018 |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common 82,432,426
Preferred Series A 3,048,019
Preferred Series D 2,542,296
Preferred Series G 4,000,000
|
Month #5 05/01/2018 through 05/31/2018 |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common 82,432,426
Preferred Series A 3,048,019
Preferred Series D 2,542,296
Preferred Series G 4,000,000
| ||||
Month #6 06/01/2018 through 06/30/2018 |
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A |
Common 82,432,426
Preferred Series A 3,048,019
Preferred Series D 1,271,148
Preferred Series G 4,000,000
| ||||
Total | Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G N/A
|
Common N/A
Preferred Series A N/A
Preferred Series D N/A
Preferred Series G 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 quarterly in the Funds quarterly report 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 Funds 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 Funds preferred shares are trading at a discount to the liquidation value of $25.00.
c. | The expiration date (if any) of each plan or program The Funds repurchase plans are ongoing. |
d. | Each plan or program that has expired during the period covered by the table The Funds 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. The Funds repurchase plans are ongoing. |
Item 10. 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 registrants Board of Trustees, 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 11. Controls and Procedures.
(a) | The registrants principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions have concluded that the registrants disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act)) are effective as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on the evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act and Rule 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. |
(b) | The registrants certifying officers are not aware of any changes in the registrants internal control over financial reporting (as defined in rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act) that occurred during the registrants last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrants internal control over financial reporting. |
Item 12. | Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Companies. |
Not applicable.
Item 13. Exhibits.
(a)(1) | Not applicable. | |
(a)(2) | 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) | Not applicable. | |
(a)(4) | Not applicable. | |
(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 Dividend & Income Trust
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ Bruce N. Alpert
Bruce N. Alpert, Principal Executive Officer
Date 8/27/2018
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/ Bruce N. Alpert
Bruce N. Alpert, Principal Executive Officer
Date 8/27/2018
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ John C. Ball
John C. Ball, Principal Financial Officer and Treasurer
Date 8/27/2018
* | Print the name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature. |