Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund
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: 811-22016
Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
2500 Westchester Avenue, Suite 215, Purchase, NY 10577
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC
2500 Westchester Avenue, Suite 215
Purchase, New York, 10577
(Name and address of agent for service)
Registrants telephone number, including area code: (914) 251-0880
Date of fiscal year end: October 31
Date of reporting period: November 1, 2009 - April 30, 2010
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. ss. 3507.
Item 1. |
Reports to Stockholders. |
Alpine
GLOBAL PREMIER PROPERTIES FUND
April 30,
2010
Semi-Annual Report
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Dear Investor:
We concluded last falls annual letter to shareholders by stating that
The U.S. and global economies will continue to transition
in a positive fashion towards a multi year cycle of relatively directional positive returns
, but that is not to say that 2010 will be an easy year. We expected market volatility and that is surely what we have experienced to date through
the semi-annual period ending April 30, 2010 and into the May date of this letter writing. The market memory of the financial distress which precipitated the meltdown of Lehman Brothers in the Fall of 2008 and continued into early 2009 is still
fresh in investors memories, yet the hopes for economic recovery and strong financial market returns have been growing. The forces of greed and fear remain powerfully present in the market today as witnessed by significant sector rotation over
the past six months and a return to high levels on the VIX Index of market volatility. Capital market improvement, solid corporate earnings and signs of economic strength have been offset by the Euro debt crisis, BPs Gulf oil spill, North
Korean aggression, and Chinas moderation of prior stimulus. In Alpines view, both exogenous events and economic fundamentals are continually incorporated into a natural progression towards a longer term trend, as the market alternates
between dancing forward then taking a step backward before progressing further. We believe the markets will establish a stronger medium-term trend during 2011 in anticipation of improving economic prospects leading into 2012 and beyond, and
long-term investors may once again replace traders as the dominant force in the market.
The Euro and Investment Risk
The current financial market instability brought about by the decline in the Euro versus the U.S. dollar, stems from the markets inability to
assess the ultimate impact of the Greek governments eroded capacity to both service and stand behind its sovereign debt. The scope of the situation could be as minimal as Greeces 2% contribution to Euro-zone Gross Domestic Product (GDP),
or as significant as spawning a contagion of credit concerns which could undermine the cohesion of the European Union (EU) and the durability of its currency, the Euro. At their extreme, such fears of high exposure among banks and governments
to potentially risky corporate and sovereign debt, suggests that even the creditworthiness of the United States of America could eventually be impaired. Thus, the range of implications to all financial markets could extend from insignificant to
catastrophic. However, the reality is likely more benign. While disruptive to markets in the short term, the fears of contagion have forced the European Union (EU) and the European Central Bank (ECB) to provide greater safeguards than is probably
warranted. In effect, the EUs 750 billion Euro stabilization package is designed to provide adequate funding for not only Greece, but Portugal and Spain, for a period of approximately four years. This is designed as a temporary measure to
enable these different countries to implement and execute austerity packages which would reduce their dependence upon debt financing of government activities. Unfortunately, for a few months market participants will likely remain unsure as to the
future effectiveness of such plans or of the negative impact upon domestic or regional growth. Thus, pressure on the Euro may continue; initially to the
benefit of the U.S. dollar. Devaluation of the Euro should help exporters, particularly in Germany, where unit labor costs rose by less than 10% over the previous decade. By comparison, Southern
Europe experienced 30% to 40% increases, with Greece now the least competitive country in that region. Over the next few years, the EU will likely add institutional flexibility in order to adjust for financial inequalities amongst members.
Otherwise, the membership will be forced to change for the EU to remain meaningful.
As Alpine sees it, debt funded excesses which
perhaps provided a boost to prior years growth are being replaced by austerity measures in response to pressure from the financial markets, which remain focused on reducing risk. Governments, corporations and even individuals, are increasingly
being required to live within their means, to fund debt obligations from cash flow and utilize resources productively to produce either collective, corporate or individual wealth. This emphasis on derisking has certainly entered into the equity
markets where the mid-May sell-off was characterized by some observers as traders derisking exposure to stocks, taking risk off their portfolios in relation to currencies, or adjusting the amount of market risk that they were comfortable taking.
This was a contrast to the strong March rally which preceded this contagion conundrum, where financially leveraged cyclical stocks outperformed as some traders sought to add beta or market risk to their portfolios.
Risk aversion is evidenced by the astonishing low yields which investors are accepting for low risk. U.S. Treasury Bills are yielding 0.159% for
the shortest duration risk of three months. With a yield curve that only rises above 3% after six years, investors either expect significant deflation of assets for several years or are so risk averse as to forsake opportunities to grow their net
worth. The danger of a financial meltdown which was almost palpable in October of 2008 is not apparent from measures such as so-called TED Spreads between Treasury notes and LIBOR (London Interbank Offering Rates are the cost at
which banks do business with each other) which ended May at roughly 0.21% versus a peak of over 4.53% on October 10, 2008. Further evidence comes from the U.S. Federal Reserves St Louis (Fed Branch) Financial Stress Index
which peaked at 5.01% in that same week in 2008, yet ended May 2010 at 0.872%. Perhaps the current pattern of extreme caution could be expected after experiencing a hundred year flood as we did during the credit crisis of 2008. Thus, if
important measures of financial risk are only flashing a yellow cautious and not a solid red for danger,, then market psychology may be excessively cautious, with potentially significant, albeit, diverging implications for both equity and income
investors.
Alpines Focus on Funding Corporate Investment
The markets on again, off again reactions to a continuing stream of information and statistics reflect the powerful impact of short term
trading strategies. While we must be responsive to short-term conditions, Alpine seeks to set its strategy based on larger fundamental trends and conditions. We believe that earnings growth can occur in a low or slow growth environment if market
share gains are possible. In light of the recent downturn, many public companies, particularly in the real estate and banking sectors,
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April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
sold new shares to investors over the past year in order to recapitalize balance sheets and position themselves to potentially expand market share. Selectively, Alpine funds have been active
participants in many such offerings. Irrespective of economic conditions, companies with innovative products or processes or those which can achieve corporate transformation brought about by a change in product lines or business, may also experience
increases in market share. Alpine has made these investment themes the primary focus of two different funds. However, for all of our funds, we endeavor to find such opportunities as well as emphasizing regions or sectors of growing demand. As a
corollary, we are less inclined to invest in situations where growth in user demand is limited or declining. However, there are situations when such decline or such growth is more than priced in, and that creates both buying and selling
opportunities, respectively. While this suggests that there will always be buying opportunities in different markets at different times, we nevertheless prefer to tilt the portfolios to the areas where we find longer term growth. Thus, Alpines
focus on emerging market opportunities, most notably in Brazil and China where it is appropriate for the mandates of specific Funds, or for other Funds by investing in U.S. based companies which are seeking growth opportunities in emerging market
economies.
China Slowing and Brazil Growing
Recently, China has embarked on a restrictive liquidity program bringing money supply growth down from a stimulus oriented peak of 35% after the
Lehman Brothers bankruptcy, back to historic levels of 15% to 18%. The government has also sought to constrain price inflation in the property sector, both of which we believe may take 2% to 4% off GDP, bringing the medium term rate of growth from
11% down to a 7% to 8% range. We believe that the major impact of this attempt to reign in price inflation will be achieved this summer, and that, to a great degree, it is already being priced into the stock market. Typically, command control
economies such as China are often too blunt in their approach and methodology and, hence, the desired impact may not be as envisioned. That said, domestic income inequality between workers, their bosses, and even the growing middle class has been
contentious, so the political aspect of this exercise may be as important as the economic.
A side result of this projected slowdown in
China has been a decline in commodity prices around the world, impacting not only the major suppliers of such materials in natural resources, but also restraining a global source of potential inflation. With regard to Brazil, domestic demand is now
growing to the point where the effect of Chinas modest slowdown is not having a significant impact. There have even been a few economists who recently increased their growth prospects for Brazil from 6.5% to 7.5% GDP growth during the course
of 2010, as the Central Bank may moderate ongoing plans to raise interest rates over the course of the year. It is worth noting that these interest rate increases are not tied to interest rates used for consumer mortgages. Rather they should have
more impact on the commercial borrowing than on domestic demand. We also expect to see a growing level of fixed asset investment in both infrastructure and industry in Brazil, including new roads, railroads, ports, steel mills and deep sea oil rigs.
Many U.S., European, Japanese and Chinese companies are investing in Brazil to build
industrial capacity from mines to factories, while others are focused on growing consumption patterns, notably including Unilever and Walmart. This is a classic pattern where countries which
initially had a beneficial cost of production or abundant natural resources further enhanced productivity through modern industrialization and then created added value through downstream manufacturing or distribution.
Investing for Future Needs
For the past
eighty years, the U.S. has been at the head of the pack in our productivity gains, as witnessed by our economys 22% share of global GDP. However, we must increase the current level of investment in our infrastructure and technical capacity,
with particular focus on education if we are to maintain this level of superiority. Unfortunately, it looks as if during the next few years we will share some of the burden of austerity measures which now afflict Europe and the U.K. Our municipal
and state government budgets were directly stabilized by the stimulus package of 2009, yet drastic cuts to the 2010 through 2011 local budgets will be telling, both in their political and economic impact over the next year. We already see an
historic excess of qualified teachers relative to job openings as class sizes rise and curriculums shrink. Cuts in municipal and social services ranging from reduced waste pickup, more homeless on the streets and fewer services for the needy or
house bound are already taking place. Fees, tolls and taxes will be increasing at the same time that public transit schedules are reduced. This makes the prospects for meaningful economic growth even less clear. Add to this the inevitable
uncertainty over the impact of recent Federal government legislation bringing healthcare and financial reform, and the likely evolution of a revised tax regime starting next year. Thus, the ongoing political debate regarding finances and priorities
will take on greater significance for the next few years.
Countering such concerns for now are the benefits of a strong dollar at the
expense of the Euro, and cheaper commodities which should help to sustain low interest rates for our import oriented economy. Low interest rates around the world could very well continue into the foreseeable future. With a few years of cheap money
and a degree of ingenuity, the U.S. may be able to maintain the current trajectory of recovery. Europe and Japan have fewer tools with which to engage growth, so more time may be needed to rebalance their accounts. Progress could provide investors
with greater economic clarity of future economic potentials as we continue to unwind the debt burden of the past decade and restructure our industrial and economic priorities. With clarity comes confidence, which reinforces action, suggesting that
the next two to three years may see a resurgence of long term investors in equity markets.
Where Greece was a shot across the bow of
the European Union, we must make sure that it was not a canary in the coal mine singing to the rest of us. Companies and countries which can continue to fund their finances should see their shares and currencies perform well over the
near term. Those that cannot, may well be devalued or neglected by investors. Inevitably, strong players can take advantage of opportunities better than those with financial constraints. This suggests that merger and acquisition (M&A) activity,
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April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
which has already resurfaced, may continue to grow in both volume and size over the next few years. The stock pickers at Alpine are looking forward to continued innovation and transformations
which respond to the needs of today
and tomorrow!
In closing, we expect that the balance of 2010 could continue to be somewhat
volatile; however, we would expect to see some measure of improvement by the time we next report to you after the end of the October fiscal year.
Thank you for your interest and support,
Samuel A. Lieber
Mutual fund
investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
The letter and those that follow represent the opinion of Alpine
Funds management and are subject to change, are not guaranteed, and should not be considered recommendations to buy or sell any security.
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Please refer to the schedule of investments for fund holding information. Fund holdings and sector allocations are subject to change
and should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Current and future portfolio holdings are subject to risk.
VIX Index - Chicago Board Options Exchange SPX Volatility Index reflects a market estimate of future
volatility, based on the weighted average of the implied volatilities for a wide range of strikes.
St. Louis
Feds Financial Stress Index (STLFSI) is constructed using principal components analysis is a statistical method of extracting factors responsible for the comovement of a group of variables.
Cash flow measures the cash generating capability of a company by adding non-cash charges (e.g. depreciation) and
interest expense to pretax income.
Beta measures the sensitivity of rates of return on a fund to
general market movements.)
The TED spread is the difference between the interest rates on interbank loans
and short-term U.S. government debt. The TED spread is an indicator of perceived credit risk in the general economy.
Yield Curve - is the relation between the Interest rate interest rate (or cost of borrowing) and the time to maturity of
the debt for a given borrower in a given currency.
These being Closed-end funds and do not continuously offer shares
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Manager Commentary |
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Dear Investors:
We are pleased to present the 2010 semi-annual report for the Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund (AWP). For the six-month
period ended April 30th, 2010, the net asset value (NAV) per
share increased 11.01% to $7.53, and over the trailing twelve months the NAV increased by 66.26%. The market share price of AWP as of April 30 was $6.50, which produced total returns of 20.15% and 84.84%, respectively, for the same six and
twelve month periods. By way of comparison, the S&P Developed BMI (Global) Property Net Total Return U.S. Dollar Index returned 12.99% for the six-month period under review and 56.36% over the past 12 months, and the S&P 500 returned
15.66% and 38.84%, respectively, for the same periods.
The closing market price on
April 30th of $6.50 represented a 13.01% discount to underlying net asset
value per share of $7.53. By comparison the average discount during the six months under review was 15.89% which had improved from the 17.98% discount of the prior six-month period back to April, 2009. While the trend toward moderating discount
reflects the improved performance of the property sector, it is still far greater than the -5.42% average discount at which AWP traded at since inception in April, 2007 through October 30, 2008, which included the immediate aftermath of the
Lehman Brothers collapse. We believe the potential for an improving cyclical trend may continue to enhance investor sentiment toward global real estate, possibly reducing or reversing the current discount.
DIVIDENDS
During the period under review,
the Funds dividend per share was increased by 10% from $0.03 to $0.0333 per month. This reflects not only the strong recovery in property share prices, but also the stabilization of real estate capital markets which has led to resumption of
some cash dividends and several increases. As the financial prospects for the property sector continue to improve and rents rise, we would hope to grow the dividend further. However, we believe that opportunities for capital appreciation remain
greater than the potential for significant dividend growth at this stage of the cycle. The potential for growth of real estate in regions with strong demographic and economic drivers of demand, as well as potential for declining discounts of
currently undervalued property companies, appear greater than the prospects for near term rental income or dividend growth. Thus, for now, we will continue to tilt the total return bias of the portfolio towards capital appreciation as opposed to
maximizing income.
The current indicated monthly dividend level of $0.396 annualized provides a yield of 6.08% as
of the April 30th closing NAV. It is worth noting that the Fund made a
special distribution for last year of $0.2656, in addition to the regular monthly distributions. This
provided an annualized trailing six-month yield of 10.06% based on the average share price of $6.275 for the period under review.
OVERVIEW OF GLOBAL PROPERTY CONDITIONS
Most
relevant for this period was the general modest level of returns of property equities around the world with the principal exception of the United States. Outside of Australia, no other country experienced such aggressive recapitalization of real
estate company balance sheets as has the U.S. This recap has led real estate equities to rapidly price in the potential for a sizeable recovery in rents and earning power of real estate companies in the U.S. There has even been a meaningful (albeit
historically modest) increase in property transactions as prices have increased and prospective initial investment yields declined. Nonetheless, some observers assume that the rise in property transaction volumes and in asset values is more a
reflection of investment demand growth off a low level rather than tenant demand growth. Even though occupancies are improving in selected markets, in most cases this has not yet led to an increase in rents, albeit some of the costs of attracting
tenants has come down. We believe there is a stand-off between the weight of money ready to invest and sellers who have not been forced to relinquish their properties at historically low valuations. Many investors had hoped for the buying
opportunity of a lifetime and have been disappointed. While transaction volumes are up, they are still a fraction of peak levels. Many market participants still await a potential surge of commercial foreclosures forced onto the market by
lenders over the next two years.
Overseas, the market conditions vary considerably, yet like the U.S. the trends suggest declining
liquidity. Continental Europe has seen very low transaction volumes as both investment demand and the supply of attractively priced properties have been modest. Few markets have yet to see occupancy gains, and rents have shown only modest
improvement. Asset values are still a bit soft with only a handful of transactions, though, trophy properties have traded at valuations within 10% to 15% of peak valuations. The United Kingdom has a greater amount of debt maturing over the next few
years relative to the market size than even the U.S. However, the banks have yet to conduct mass foreclosures or forced auctions. Resulting property transaction volumes remain relatively low, although values have risen from trough levels of 2008.
Notably, we have seen evidence of modestly rising rents in parts of the London office market, although 2014 will be a key year for lease expirations and, hence, rental activity. As in the U.S., there have even been a few IPOs of new public
property companies on the London stock markets designed to opportunistically acquire inexpensive properties. It is possible that the new government in the U.K. could force banks to begin to liquidate their commercial mortgage holdings and conduct
foreclosure sales which may create interesting investment possibilities for properly positioned companies.
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The Fund is significantly underweight our benchmark index weighting in Japan. Real estate demand is
following the moribund pattern of the overall economy with the unfortunate exception that new supply is still coming on-line, which will further dampen rents for commercial properties. Demand growth is limited and prospective tenants are focused on
upgrading to higher quality properties at lower rents. Residential trends are modestly better, but transaction volume is still constrained. Investment demand in Japan is also currently soft, although there is the promise of several new investment
funds seeking to raise capital. Most Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in Japan are structurally impeded from playing a dynamic role in recapitalizing the property sector. Declining asset values, falling rents and rising
vacancies obviously constitute a negative trend, although some local observers believe that a bottom may be near. Our question is whether there will be any acceleration of tenant demand off such low levels. If we see this potential, we may raise the
Funds exposure towards the typical index weighting of 10% or possibly even higher.
Australia has been a positive equity market in
that it recapitalized banks and REITs earlier than most and the economy has remained relatively buoyant as a result of strong commodity exports, primarily to China. Australia was the first market to actively recapitalize its property equity base
beginning in 2009. Equity offerings are now focused on financing acquisitions. We see some modestly growing investment demand and rising transaction volumes, leading to somewhat higher asset values even though occupier demand, while cautiously
positive is not yet strong enough to push rents materially higher. Significantly, banks are slowly starting to refinance debt and have moved some properties into the market place, commencing a bottom clearing process.
Singapore is another market which was actively recapitalized by equity REITs in 2009. Although they are not driving transactions, rather strong
economic growth in recent quarters has fueled activity, particularly in the residential sector with new supply coming to the market. Commercial rents are relatively flat; however, asset values have been increasing, inducing some companies to test
the waters regarding IPOs. Hong Kong remained a solid market where demand has more than matched supply growth, leading to modestly rising rents over the past year, as well as significant investment demand accompanied by solid bank lending, which in
combination has fueled transaction volumes and asset values. In general, property prices are historically high; however, future demand may be tied to the economic progress of China. Unfortunately, Hong Kong seems even more congested and polluted
than ever, which may influence future growth.
China is in the midst of a managed growth slowdown which is very much focused on real
estate supply and prices. China is removing excess liquidity which resulted from pumping up broad money
supply by 35% to stimulate their economy post Lehman Brothers. Now they are targeting mid to high teens growth, in line with historic levels. Commercial prices have been surprisingly stable,
albeit rents have been rather soft in most markets due to excess supply of secondary quality space. Retail real estate has seen significant capital investment in anticipation of a coming consumption boom, however, the right type of property and the
right location have always been the watch-words for real estate, and this remains true today. Residential construction has been the main driver of growth in construction activity with prices rising over 50% in the past year. This compares with
historic annual growth of mid-to-high teens percentages and flat to slightly negative price trends which were typical in 2008. Thus, prices are only just a bit above the longer term historical trends, which in large part has been fueled by both
significant economic growth and the continued urbanization of Chinas population, now spread across roughly 70 cities of greater than 1 million persons. Surprisingly, affordability remains in line with historical standards over the past
decade, except in Beijing and Shenzen which rose roughly 100% over the last twelve months ending April 30, 2010. It is worth noting that the new property constraints are primarily focused on major cities where prices increased the most,
including Shanghai, Shenzen, Beijing and Chongqing. Current restrictions on mortgage activity are impacting middle class housing more than the high-end, where buyers often use cash. With a boom in residential mortgages last year amounting to 25% of
the total volume of mortgages outstanding, it is not surprising that sales volumes pushed prices significantly higher once existing inventories were absorbed. Given historic appreciation, the average mortgage represents approximately 40% loan to
value at current market prices. Since most mortgages are limited to a 60% loan to value, we do not expect the current moderation of prices to have a significant impact on either bank balance sheets or the household economy. The lower transaction
volumes resulting from the recent stream of new regulation could cause uncertainty as to price stabilization and thus, transaction volumes may remain low across the middle half of this year. With regard to the comments by some observers that there
is a bubble to be deflated, our site visits to numerous cities suggest that the demand for housing remains strong, and while certainly some excess construction and speculative investment has occurred in certain cities and districts, in our opinion
most markets are reasonably close to being in balance.
India is another interesting market where there was once significant speculation
in investment across all property type segments fueled by excess capital, just like virtually every other market around the world. However, strong economic growth, continued urbanization and modernization of Indian society is creating sustainable
demand patterns which are now starting to take hold. Demand growth for investment is coming back and supply, which is only now coming on line from the prior period of frenetic growth, is being met by rising tenant demand. Nonetheless, rents remain
relatively flat.
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Transaction volume remains low as bank debt remains constrained, but prime properties are being
acquired by well capitalized investors leading to a modest pick-up in transaction volumes. A number of commercial projects have been redesigned to incorporate an extensive residential component since major cities still lack significant inventory of
modern homes and apartments. Retail sales were stagnant for a period, but are now improving, leading some merchants to once again turn their focus on a broad national platform.
In Alpines opinion, Brazil remains the most buoyant economy and environment for the property sector. Even though new supply is coming to
market, tenant demand is strong, be it for new homes, stores, logistics facilities or offices. As a result, rents are increasing and values rising. Even though interest rates are rising, raising carrying cost for commercial properties, residential
mortgage rates are relatively stable, so financing activity continues to grow. Demographic patterns, expanding consumer finance, and strong investment prospects for fixed assets should continue to propel the Brazilian real estate sectors.
PORTFOLIO CHANGES
The current
makeup of the portfolio for the Alpine Global Premier Property Fund shifted somewhat over the six-month period under review through April 30, 2010. North America was increased from 32.7% to 37.6%, with the majority of that being an increase in
U.S. portfolio from 32.7% up to 35.5%. The Funds Brazilian assets also increased from 14.9% to 17.0%, these increases offset a decline in Asian holdings from 31.7% to 20.7%. Most notably, a drop in Japanese assets from 6.7% to 3.5% and Chinese
holdings from 7.0% to 3.5%, as well as a modest reduction in Singapore from 7.7% to 6.7%.
TOP TEN HOLDINGS AND PERFORMANCE REVIEW
The Funds holding in Annaly Capital Management, Inc. remains the largest position, albeit at a reduced level at a little over 4% down
from 6.5% of the Fund. Annaly produced a total return of 8.53% mainly from dividends paid. Starwood Property Trust, Inc. is the second largest holding in the Fund, it declined -4.28% in response to the slower deployment of assets than we and
the market anticipated a year ago. The great potential for forced refinancing and transaction financing anticipated last year has not materialized, so the company has been very deliberate in its investments. Stockland Corp., Ltd., the
diversified Australia property trust, remains the third largest holding in the Fund having risen by 12.06% during the period under review. The Fund sold its prior fourth largest position, Prologis, during the period under review, allowing
CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. to elevate into the number four spot returning 82.37% in the period. This owner of shopping malls in the Southeast
was materially undervalued by investors during last years sell off and continues to provide an attractive dividend. MFA Mortgage Investments, Inc. was also increased in the
portfolio, up only 2.63%, but we believe it has a better risk profile with a higher proportion of hybrid mortgage holdings than most other residential mortgage REITs, including the REIT it replaced, Chimera Corp., which had gained 26.86% for the
Fund during the period, prompting a partial sale. CapitaCommercial Trust, this leading Singapore office REIT, remains in the number six position having generated a 19.28% total return during the period. New to the top ten list is
Brookfield Properties Corp., a Toronto based owner of such premier properties as the World Financial Center in downtown Manhattan, Allen Center in Houston, First Canadian Place in Toronto, and Bankers Hall in Calgary. This stock delivered a
total return of 60.92% during the six-month period. An existing top ten from last year moved up slightly to the number eight spot, MRV Engenharia e Participacoes SA, is the premier builder of low income homes in Brazil. This company gained
13.51% during the period. The Japan Logistics Fund, Inc. is another continuation from October, this company gained 8.14% despite a 4% fall in the Yen, outperforming returns for most other Japanese REITs. Many Japanese REITs have, in fact,
been cutting their dividends over the past 18 months, while this company has increased its dividend. Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobillarios fills out the top ten, having generated a total return of 11.66%. This company is also new to the top
ten and is Brazils largest quality mall developer with a significant development pipeline which we believe should deliver over the next three to five years. Notably, a significant portion of their assets and holdings are in the Barra de Tijuca
suburb of Rio de Janeiro, which will be home to the Olympics in 2016.
In addition to the top ten holdings, the portfolio had a number
of strong showings. Most notable was General Growth Properties, which gained 290.93% over the period under review, contributing 1.41% of the Funds total return. CBL, which was previously mentioned, contributed 1.22% of the
portfolios return, and Brookfield Properties added .95%. A number of others were strong performers included ARA Asset Management of Singapore, one of Asias top private equity real estate firms with investments in China, as well as
REIT management for Suntec REIT in Singapore and Fortune REIT in Hong Kong. This company rose by 39.53% which added half a percent to the overall portfolio return. A sector with particularly strong returns was the Lodging Sector, where Host Hotel
and Resorts gained 65.03%, Orient Express rose by 58.72% and DiamondRock Hospitality added 49.93%. While U.S. REITS were the strongest sector during the period under review, the Fund also benefited from the strong performances of
retail property owners abroad, including Phoenix Mills, Ltd. of India which generated a 44.31% total return, and Parque Arauco SA of Chile which generated a 36.89% total return.
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Manager Commentary |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
ATTRACTIVE FUNDAMENTAL VALUATIONS
Alpine believes that current equity prices for U.S. and many foreign property stocks are not reflective of fundamental prospects. Under normal
circumstances, one would expect that a company with strong growth prospects would be valued by the market at premium, while the opposite would be true for slow growth situations. Property stocks have typically been valued based on underlying
property net asset value (breakup or liquidation value), as well as enterprise value divided by EBITDA, as well as price to net earnings and price to FFO (Funds from Operations). To support these views, we are utilizing data and projections provided
by Morgan Stanley Research as of April 30, 2010 for this discussion. Additional evaluation of balance sheet or ratios analysis is also useful. In light of these criteria, it appears that Continental Europe and the U.K. are the most expensive
markets and also the most financially leveraged, while Hong Kong, Singapore and Latin American markets were the cheapest and least financially leveraged. With regard to underlying real estate values, stocks in the U.S. were trading at a premium
between 25% to 30%, while Euro Zone stocks were trading in high single-digit premiums, while Japan was about flat, and the U.K at approximately 10% discount to underlying real estate values. By comparison, Singapore property stocks traded at a
single-digit premium, but then Hong Kong stocks were trading at mid-teens discounts and Chinese stocks traded in excess of 20% discounts. While Morgan Stanley did not appraise Latin American properties, Alpine estimates that they traded around 20%
below net asset value.
According to Morgan Stanley, a similar pattern emerges when looking at enterprise value (EV) to EBITDA
multiples, with Japanese stocks trading in the high teens, in line with U.S., Europe and U.K. companies. Singapore and Indonesia were at the mid-teens multiples for 2011, albeit a bit higher for 2010. By comparison, Hong Kong and Chinese property
stocks traded at multiples on both sides of ten times enterprise value while Latin American stocks were trading at about six times multiple.
Relative to the structure of global and regional interest rates, we feel these aforementioned multiples are not excessive. However, in light of
prospective growth patterns the variation is instructive. The strongest earnings growth for this year is projected to come from China. Although China may likely moderate in 2011, growth of its property companies may still be superior to all
countries, except perhaps for Latin America. Morgan Stanley is estimating 20% plus growth for both regions over both years. They see similar growth in Hong Kong this year, albeit slowing below 10% next year, which is more akin to Singapores
rate of growth. Indian companies are suffering negative growth this year with the prospect of 30% earnings growth in 2011. For both years, it is estimated that the U.K. will run at single-digit growth rates, while the U.S. could accelerate from
perhaps only a few percent this year towards the higher end of
single-digit growth in 2011. Continental Europes earnings growth is expected to be negative this year, and perhaps positive next year. It is projected that although Japan may improve in
2011, it is likely it will be negative for both years.
Finally, valuations and growth are influenced by the shape of the balance sheet.
Net debt to assets range from around 30% in Japan, up to nearly 40% for the U.S. and the U.K, even surpassing the mid 40% level for Continental European stocks. By comparison, Singapore, China, India, Latin America and Hong Kong are all under 25%
leverage on average. This is also apparent in the interest coverage ratios which are mostly low, at less 5 times for the U.K. and Europe, and about the same for Japan, a bit stronger for the U.S., at around 6 times, while the real strength of
interest coverage is evident in Singapore at approximately 10 times coverage and even more so with regard to China, Hong Kong and Latin America which are around 20 times or even higher.
In summary, there appears to be a general mismatch in terms of market valuations and growth prospects with regard to Latin American property
companies in particular, as well as China and other South Asian countries when contrasted with Europe and Japan in particular. The U.S. and U.K. appear to be relatively expensive but less so than Europe or Japan.
LOOKING FORWARD
Given the prospects for
strong growth in Brazil, we will probably consider opportunities to increase the Funds exposure in that region over the course of the summer. By then, the Chinese market may well have stabilized and we could envision adding to our positions
over that time. Japan is very much a wild card and we are uncertain as to whether enough value can be generated to overcome the weak macro environment there. Still, we remain hopeful. The U.K. is another region in which we have reduced our
weightings over the past year, and would anticipate the acceleration of news over the summer following the recent change in government to lead to new policies, and perhaps opportunities in that important market. The U.S. is a market in which public
companies have performed extraordinarily well this year, especially in light of the uncertain prospects for growth over the near term. Although we remain positive on longer term job creation of the U.S. economy, we are proceeding cautiously, as many
REITs are now trading at extended valuations relative to Alpines growth estimates.
Value is beginning to emerge in Europe,
although the potential for significant financial disruption may haunt growth prospects in both those property and equity markets for a while. Smaller Southeast Asia economies have held up well, so we would anticipate continued solid performance of
real estate equities in those countries. The
|
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Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
7 |
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Manager Commentary |
|
|
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
Sub-Continent and Middle East may also provide selective opportunities.
In summary, we believe a regionally diversified portfolio with a tilt toward emerging market growth, balanced with old world value in Europe and
the stability of strong income producers in the U.S. should continue to characterize the current AWP portfolio.
We look forward to
reporting on our progress in our next report to shareholders.
Sincerely yours,
Samuel A. Lieber
Portfolio
Manager
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Funds that concentrate their investments in a specific sector, such as real estate, tend to experience more volatility and be exposed to greater risk
than more diversified funds. The Fund invests in foreign securities which involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods.
The letter represents the opinions of Alpine Funds management and are subject to change, are not guaranteed and should not be considered
recommendations to buy or sell any security.
Please refer to the schedule of portfolio investments for fund holding information. Fund
holdings and sector allocations are subject to change and should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Current and future portfolio holdings are subject to risk.
Stocks are subject to fluctuation. The stock or other security of a company may not perform as well as expected, and may decrease
in value, because of factors related to the company or to the industry in which the company is engaged.
The
information provided is not intended to be a forecast of future events a guarantee of future results or investment advice. Views expressed may vary from those of the firm as a whole.
All index performance reflects no deduction for direct fees, expenses or taxes. Please note that an investor cannot invest directly in
an index.
Favorable tax treatment of Fund distributions may be adversely affected, changed or
repealed by future changes in tax laws. Alpine may not be able to anticipate the level of dividends that companies will pay in any given timeframe.
The Fund may hold equity-linked securities and various other derivative instruments, which can be illiquid, may disproportionately
increase losses, and have a potentially large impact on Fund performance. Leverage may magnify gains or increase losses in the Funds portfolio.
This is provided to you for informational purposes only, and should not be considered tax advice. Please consult your tax advisor for further
assistance.
The recent growth in the stock market has helped to produce short-term returns for some asset classes that are not typical
and may not continue in the future. Because of ongoing market volatility, fund performance may be subject to substantial short-term changes.
EBITDA stands for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and is an approximate measure of
a companys operating cash flow based on data from the companys income statement. It is calculated by looking at earnings before the deduction of interest expenses, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Enterprise Value is a measure of a companys value, often used as an alternative to straightforward market
capitalization. Enterprise value is calculated as market cap plus debt, minority interest and preferred shares, minus total cash and cash equivalents.
Price/Earnings Ratio (P/E) is a valuation ratio of a companys current share price compared to its per-share
earnings.
Price to Funds from Operations (FFO), is a performance metric used to evaluate Real
Estate Investment Trusts. The metric takes into account earnings from existing properties but not cash from acquisitions or sales of assets. It measures the cash-generating potential of the REITs holdings (IE, via rental income from tenants).
REIT stocks are often evaluated on their Funds from Operations multiple (stock price divided by funds from operations per share) instead of the P/E Ratio commonly used for other companies.
Interest Coverage Ratio, is a calculation of a companys ability to meet its interest payments on
outstanding debt. Interest coverage is equal to earnings before interest and taxes for a time period, often one year, divided by interest expenses for the same time period.
|
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|
|
Manager Commentary |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
The Board of Trustees approved the following changes to Funds Investment Policies
The Board adopted the following nonfundamental investment policy regarding futures contracts, which replaces the former policy on page
B-4 of the Funds SAI and limits the Funds open futures options positions to 10% (formerly 5%) of the Funds managed assets:
The Fund may not purchase financial futures contracts and related options except for bona fide hedging purposes, but may
enter into such contracts for non-hedging purposes provided that aggregate initial margin deposits plus premiums paid by that Fund for open futures options positions, less the amount by which any such positions are in-the-money, may not
exceed 10% of the Funds managed assets.
The Board additionally approved the elimination of the restriction
against the Fund holding greater than 10% of its assets in illiquid securities.
The Board approved the Funds use
of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index to determine which countries are considered emerging markets.
The Board approved
the following portfolio management changes with regard to the Fund. Joel E. D. Wells will serve as Co-Portfolio Manager with Samuel A. Lieber. Peter Kovalski and Robert W. Gadsden will serve as Associate Portfolio Managers.
|
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|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
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9 |
|
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|
Manager Commentary |
|
|
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
PERFORMANCE(1)
As of April 30,
2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ending Value
as of 4/30/10 |
|
One Month |
|
Three Month |
|
Six Month |
|
One Year |
|
Since Inception(2)(3)(4)
|
Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund | NAV |
|
$7.53 |
|
0.64% |
|
9.17% |
|
11.01% |
|
66.26% |
|
(16.31%) |
Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund | Market Price |
|
$6.50 |
|
(0.57%) |
|
9.94% |
|
20.15% |
|
84.84% |
|
(21.57%) |
S&P/Citigroup World Net Total Return US$ Property Index |
|
|
|
3.14% |
|
12.82% |
|
13.00% |
|
56.36% |
|
(13.47%) |
MSCI US REIT Total Return Index |
|
|
|
7.06% |
|
24.51% |
|
34.85% |
|
71.39% |
|
(9.46%) |
S&P 500 |
|
|
|
1.58% |
|
11.04% |
|
15.66% |
|
38.84% |
|
(5.28%) |
(1)
|
Performance information calculated after consideration of dividend reinvestment. All returns for
periods of less than one year are not annualized. |
(2)
|
Commenced operations on April 26, 2007. |
(4)
|
IPO price of $20 used in calculating performance information.
|
To the extent that the Funds historical performance resulted from gains derived from
participation in initial public offerings (IPOs), there is no guarantee that these results can be replicated in future periods or that the Fund will be able to participate to the same degree in IPO offerings in the future.
Performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and investment
returns and principle value of the Fund will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance quoted. Call 1(800)617.7616 or visit
www.alpinecef.com for current month end performance.
S&P/Citigroup World Net Total Return US$ Property Index is an
unmanaged market-weighted total return index available on a monthly basis. The index consists of many companies from developed markets whose floats are larger than $100 million and derive more than half of their revenue from property-related
activities.
The MSCI US REIT Index is a free float-adjusted market capitalization weighted index that is comprised of
equity REITs that are included in the MSCI US Investable Market 2500 Index, with the exception of specialty equity REITs that do not generate a majority of their revenue and income from real estate rental and leasing operations. The index represents
approximately 85% of the US REIT universe.
The Standard & Poors 500 Index (S&P 500) is an unmanaged
index containing common stocks of 500 industrial, transportation, utility and financial companies, regarded as generally representative of the U.S. stock market. The index return reflects the reinvestment of income dividends and capital gain
distributions, if any, but does not reflect fees, brokerage commissions, or other expenses of investing.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PORTFOLIO DISTRIBUTIONS* |
|
|
|
TOP TEN HOLDINGS* |
|
|
|
|
Annaly Capital Management, Inc. |
|
4.0% United States |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Starwood Property Trust, Inc. |
|
3.3% United States |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stockland Corp., Ltd. |
|
3.2% Australia |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. |
|
2.6% United States |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MFA Mortgage Investments, Inc. |
|
2.4% United States |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CapitaCommercial Trust |
|
2.2% Singapore |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brookfield Properties Corp. |
|
2.1% Canada |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MRV Engenharia e Participacoes SA |
|
2.1% Brazil |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Japan Logistics Fund, Inc. |
|
2.0% Japan |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliarios |
|
|
|
SA |
|
|
|
|
|
2.0% Brazil |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Top 10 Holdings |
|
25.9% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOP FIVE COUNTRIES* |
|
|
|
United States |
|
35.5% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brazil |
|
16.9% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Singapore |
|
6.7% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Australia |
|
4.3% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* As a percentage of net assets |
|
|
|
United Kingdom |
|
3.8% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Portfolio holdings and distributions are subject to change and are not recommendations to buy
and sell any security.
|
|
|
|
|
Manager Commentary |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
REGIONAL
ALLOCATION*
As of April 30, 2010
* As a percentage of net assets, excluding any short-term investments.
NAV, MARKET PRICE, AND TOTAL RETURN
Six Months Ended April 30, 2010
(1)
|
Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of a common share at the opening on the first day
and a sale at closing on the last day of each period reported. Total return on market price reflects a $20.00 opening IPO price per share for the period ending April 30, 2010. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of
this calculation to be reinvested. |
|
|
|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
11 |
|
|
|
Schedule of Portfolio Investments |
|
|
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
Shares |
|
Value
(Note 1) |
|
|
|
|
|
COMMON STOCKS (92.2%) |
|
|
|
|
Australia (4.3%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Goodman Group |
|
6,964,466 |
|
$4,527,067 |
|
|
Mirvac Group |
|
3,075,443 |
|
3,946,429 |
|
|
Stockland Corp., Ltd. |
|
7,056,000 |
|
25,720,682 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
34,194,178 |
|
|
Austria (0.5%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Conwert Immobilien Invest SE |
|
350,025 |
|
4,038,295 |
|
|
Brazil (16.9%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Agre Empreendimentos Imobiliarios SA |
|
1,543,087 |
|
6,906,496 |
|
|
Aliansce Shopping Centers SA |
|
200,110 |
|
1,105,167 |
|
|
BHG SA - Brazil Hospitality
Group* |
|
620,000 |
|
5,974,400 |
|
|
BR Malls Participacoes SA |
|
787,400 |
|
9,983,774 |
|
|
Brasil Brokers Participacoes SA |
|
563,300 |
|
2,521,199 |
|
|
Brookfield Incorporacoes SA |
|
1,796,928 |
|
8,083,979 |
|
|
Cyrela Brazil Realty SA |
|
105,000 |
|
1,259,456 |
|
|
Cyrela Commercial Properties SA Empreendimentos e Participacoes |
|
1,481,000 |
|
9,883,273 |
|
|
Direcional Engenharia SA |
|
1,587,302 |
|
9,405,558 |
|
|
EcoRodovias Infraestrutura e Logistica
SA* |
|
829,384 |
|
4,532,805 |
|
|
Iguatemi Empresa de Shopping Centers SA |
|
541,738 |
|
9,059,873 |
|
|
Julio Simoes Logistica
SA* |
|
1,112,020 |
|
5,220,241 |
|
|
Mills Estruturas e Servicos de Engenharia
SA* |
|
605,000 |
|
4,013,030 |
|
|
MRV Engenharia e Participacoes SA |
|
2,328,000 |
|
16,299,013 |
|
|
Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliarios SA |
|
905,000 |
|
15,796,174 |
|
|
PDG Realty SA Empreendimentos e Participacoes |
|
1,593,314 |
|
14,482,590 |
|
|
Rossi Residencial SA |
|
945,387 |
|
6,961,573 |
|
|
Tecnisa SA |
|
639,500 |
|
3,200,719 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
134,689,320 |
|
|
Canada (2.1%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brookfield Properties Corp. |
|
1,026,485 |
|
16,403,230 |
|
|
Chile (0.3%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Parque Arauco SA |
|
1,780,643 |
|
2,418,682 |
|
|
China (3.4%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Agile Property Holdings, Ltd. |
|
1,759,067 |
|
2,038,023 |
|
|
C C Land Holdings, Ltd. |
|
9,618,900 |
|
3,555,604 |
|
|
CapitaRetail China Trust |
|
5,414,000 |
|
4,882,201 |
|
|
Franshion Properties China, Ltd. |
|
22,224,000 |
|
6,310,990 |
|
|
Hopson Development Holdings, Ltd. |
|
2,672,300 |
|
3,476,986 |
|
|
KWG Property Holding, Ltd. |
|
4,669,934 |
|
2,695,024 |
|
|
Soho China, Ltd. |
|
1,228,500 |
|
698,146 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
Shares |
|
Value
(Note 1) |
|
China (continued) |
|
|
|
|
Yanlord Land Group, Ltd. |
|
3,087,500 |
|
$3,813,016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
27,469,990 |
France (2.3%) |
|
|
|
|
Club
Mediterranee* |
|
64,714 |
|
1,084,032 |
Eurosic, Inc. |
|
120,314 |
|
4,111,559 |
ICADE |
|
20,831 |
|
2,024,825 |
Kaufman & Broad
SA* |
|
78,984 |
|
1,990,659 |
Nexity SA |
|
248,719 |
|
9,085,863 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
18,296,938 |
Germany (1.4%) |
|
|
|
|
Deutsche Post AG |
|
186,300 |
|
3,027,865 |
DIC Asset AG |
|
622,136 |
|
5,366,509 |
Sirius Real Estate,
Ltd.* |
|
4,996,244 |
|
1,788,792 |
Treveria PLC |
|
11,057,500 |
|
1,380,973 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,564,139 |
Hong Kong (3.0%) |
|
|
|
|
The Hongkong & Shanghai Hotels, Ltd. |
|
2,995,250 |
|
4,728,654 |
Longfor Properties Co.,
Ltd.* |
|
594,000 |
|
588,434 |
Mandarin Oriental International, Ltd. |
|
1,956,000 |
|
3,391,117 |
Midland Holdings, Ltd. |
|
9,836,350 |
|
9,025,222 |
New World China Land, Ltd. |
|
10,280,980 |
|
3,337,679 |
NWS Holdings, Ltd. |
|
1,521,000 |
|
2,658,133 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
23,729,239 |
India (1.0%) |
|
|
|
|
Hirco
PLC* |
|
1,299,168 |
|
2,725,873 |
Unitech Corporate Parks
PLC* |
|
2,504,000 |
|
1,288,455 |
Yatra Capital,
Ltd.* |
|
666,500 |
|
3,624,104 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,638,432 |
Italy (0.4%) |
|
|
|
|
Pirelli & C Real Estate
SpA* |
|
6,189,075 |
|
3,431,325 |
Japan (3.5%) |
|
|
|
|
Frontier Real Estate Investment Corp. |
|
307 |
|
2,362,565 |
Japan Logistics Fund, Inc. |
|
2,002 |
|
16,012,230 |
Nomura Real Estate Holdings, Inc. |
|
366,464 |
|
6,492,410 |
Secured Capital Japan Co., Ltd. |
|
2,624 |
|
3,116,432 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
27,983,637 |
Luxembourg (1.5%) |
|
|
|
|
Regus PLC |
|
6,640,133 |
|
11,688,837 |
Netherlands (0.7%) |
|
|
|
|
Corio NV |
|
60,000 |
|
3,471,158 |
Eurocommercial Properties NV |
|
54,886 |
|
2,057,841 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,528,999 |
Norway (1.4%) |
|
|
|
|
Norwegian Property
ASA* |
|
5,434,649 |
|
10,754,045 |
|
|
|
|
|
Schedule of Portfolio Investments |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
Shares |
|
Value
(Note 1) |
|
|
|
|
|
Poland (0.2%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Atrium European Real Estate, Ltd. |
|
251,807 |
|
$1,495,232 |
|
|
Russia (1.5%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
LSR Group OJSC -
GDR* |
|
650,000 |
|
5,557,500 |
|
|
PIK Group -
GDR*(1) |
|
751,845 |
|
3,921,774 |
|
|
RGI International,
Ltd.* |
|
1,358,561 |
|
2,863,575 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12,342,849 |
|
|
Singapore (6.7%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
ARA Asset Management,
Ltd.(1) |
|
19,802,400 |
|
13,264,703 |
|
|
Ascott Residence Trust |
|
6,100,000 |
|
5,272,897 |
|
|
Banyan Tree Holdings,
Ltd.* |
|
8,655,400 |
|
5,015,243 |
|
|
CapitaCommercial Trust |
|
19,739,300 |
|
17,261,624 |
|
|
CapitaMall Trust |
|
4,000,000 |
|
5,641,976 |
|
|
Parkway Life Real Estate Investment Trust |
|
3,503,000 |
|
3,382,850 |
|
|
Starhill Global REIT |
|
8,007,071 |
|
3,531,105 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
53,370,398 |
|
|
Sweden (2.2%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
JM AB |
|
835,345 |
|
13,457,344 |
|
|
Skanska AB |
|
250,000 |
|
4,142,334 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,599,678 |
|
|
Thailand (1.5%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Central Pattana PCL |
|
5,730,000 |
|
3,461,873 |
|
|
Minor International PCL |
|
23,771,800 |
|
6,904,145 |
|
|
SC Asset PCL |
|
5,031,900 |
|
1,625,029 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,991,047 |
|
|
United Kingdom (3.0%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Great Portland Estates PLC |
|
1,561,886 |
|
7,476,654 |
|
|
Metric Property Investments
PLC* |
|
1,162,791 |
|
1,841,407 |
|
|
Segro PLC |
|
78,047 |
|
368,400 |
|
|
Shaftesbury PLC |
|
1,556,214 |
|
9,261,041 |
|
|
Songbird Estates
PLC* |
|
1,824,732 |
|
4,706,383 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
23,653,885 |
|
|
United States (34.4%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alexanders,
Inc.* |
|
37,261 |
|
11,842,291 |
|
|
Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. |
|
123,739 |
|
8,761,959 |
|
|
AMB Property Corp. |
|
337,258 |
|
9,396,008 |
|
|
Annaly Capital Management, Inc. |
|
1,868,135 |
|
31,664,888 |
|
|
Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc. |
|
386,500 |
|
6,960,865 |
|
|
Beazer Homes USA,
Inc.* |
|
250,385 |
|
1,645,029 |
|
|
CB Richard Ellis Group,
Inc.* |
|
108,333 |
|
1,876,328 |
|
|
CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. |
|
1,404,353 |
|
20,503,554 |
|
|
Chatham Lodging
Trust* |
|
180,723 |
|
3,587,352 |
|
|
Chesapeake Lodging
Trust* |
|
20,000 |
|
375,400 |
|
|
Chimera Investment Corp. |
|
2,031,660 |
|
8,268,856 |
|
|
Cogdell Spencer, Inc. |
|
40,343 |
|
305,800 |
|
|
Colony Financial, Inc. |
|
465,507 |
|
8,849,288 |
|
|
Cypress Sharpridge Investments, Inc. |
|
362,190 |
|
4,686,739 |
|
|
Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. |
|
150,000 |
|
11,865,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
Shares |
|
Value
(Note 1) |
|
United States (continued) |
|
|
|
|
DiamondRock Hospitality
Co.* |
|
464,049 |
|
$5,099,898 |
Entertainment Properties Trust |
|
147,800 |
|
6,461,816 |
Excel Trust,
Inc.* |
|
426,923 |
|
5,507,307 |
First Potomac Realty Trust |
|
35,000 |
|
567,700 |
General Growth Properties, Inc. |
|
482,793 |
|
7,579,850 |
Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. |
|
410,569 |
|
6,675,852 |
Lennar Corp. |
|
289,750 |
|
5,766,025 |
The Macerich Co. |
|
122,119 |
|
5,459,940 |
MFA Mortgage Investments, Inc. |
|
2,710,500 |
|
19,271,655 |
Ocwen Financial
Corp.* |
|
276,059 |
|
3,188,481 |
Orient-Express Hotels,
Ltd.* |
|
494,472 |
|
6,749,543 |
Pinnacle West Capital Corp. |
|
119,700 |
|
4,469,598 |
ProLogis European Properties |
|
590,000 |
|
7,770,300 |
Simon Property Group, Inc. |
|
122,665 |
|
10,919,638 |
SL Green Realty Corp. |
|
150,000 |
|
9,325,500 |
Starwood Property Trust, Inc. |
|
1,366,100 |
|
25,887,595 |
Two Harbors Investment Corp. |
|
400,000 |
|
3,552,000 |
Verizon Communications, Inc. |
|
285,000 |
|
8,233,650 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
273,075,705 |
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS |
|
|
|
|
(Identified Cost $721,943,448) |
|
|
|
733,358,080 |
|
|
|
|
|
PARTICIPATION NOTES (1.6%) |
|
|
|
|
India (0.3%) |
|
|
|
|
Merrill Lynch - Housing Development
* |
|
313,700 |
|
1,883,831 |
Netherlands (0.5%) |
|
|
|
|
Merrill Lynch - Phoenix Mills,
Ltd.* |
|
850,000 |
|
4,024,070 |
United States (0.8%) |
|
|
|
|
Macquarie Bank, Ltd. - Housing Development and Infrastructure,
Ltd.* |
|
1,105,800 |
|
6,640,550 |
TOTAL PARTICIPATION NOTES |
|
|
|
|
(Identified Cost $9,690,909) |
|
|
|
12,548,451 |
|
|
|
|
|
PREFERRED STOCKS (0.3%) |
|
|
|
|
United States (0.3%) |
|
|
|
|
Beazer Homes USA, Inc., 7.500% |
|
70,000 |
|
$2,348,500 |
CBL & Associates Properties, Inc., 7.375% |
|
10,000 |
|
219,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,567,500 |
TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS |
|
|
|
|
(Identified Cost $1,953,000) |
|
|
|
2,567,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
13 |
|
|
|
Schedule of Portfolio Investments |
|
|
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
|
|
|
Shares |
|
Value
(Note 1) |
|
|
|
|
WARRANTS (0.0%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thailand (0.0%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minor International PCL, expires 3/1/13 at 13.00 (Thai
baht)*(2) |
|
|
|
|
2,377,180 |
|
$ |
|
TOTAL WARRANTS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Identified Cost $0) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EQUITY - LINKED STRUCTURED NOTES (1.0%) |
|
Sweden (0.2%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kungsleden AB*
|
|
|
|
|
250,000 |
|
1,584,714 |
|
United Kingdom (0.8%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
InterContinental Hotels Group
PLC* |
|
|
300,000 |
|
5,289,257 |
|
Segro
PLC* |
|
|
|
|
195,000 |
|
920,445 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,209,702 |
|
TOTAL EQUITY - LINKED STRUCTURED NOTES |
|
(Identified Cost $7,283,971) |
|
7,794,416 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
7 Day Yield |
|
|
Shares |
|
Value
(Note 1) |
|
|
|
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS
(0.0%)(3) |
|
Federated Treasury Obligations Money Market Fund |
|
0.010 |
% |
|
639 |
|
639 |
|
TOTAL SHORT TERM
INVESTMENTS |
|
(Identified Cost $639) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
639 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (95.1%) |
|
|
|
(Identified Cost $740,871,967) |
|
756,269,086 |
|
TOTAL OTHER ASSETS LESS
LIABILITIES (4.9%) |
|
38,670,300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET ASSETS (100.0%) |
|
|
|
|
$794,939,386 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
*
Non-income producing security.
(1)
Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to
qualified institutional buyers. These securities have been determined to be liquid in accordance with procedures adopted by the Funds Board of Trustees. As of April 30, 2010, securities restricted under Rule 144A had a total value of
$17,186,477 which comprised 2.16% of the Funds net assets.
(2)
Fair valued security; valued in accordance with procedures approved by the Funds Board of Trustees.
(3)
Less than 0.05% of Net Assets. |
|
|
Common Abbreviations
AB - Aktiebolag is the Swedish equivalent of the term corporation.
AG - Aktiengesellschaft is a German term that refers to a corporation that is limited by shares, i.e., owned by shareholders.
ASA - Allmennaksjeselskap is the Norwegian term for a public limited company.
Co. - Company
Corp. - Corporation
GDR - Global Depositary Receipts
Inc. - Incorporated
Ltd. - Limited
NV - Naamloze Vennootschap is the Dutch term for a public limited liability corporation.
OJSC - Open Joint Stock Company
PCL -
Public Company Limited
PLC - Public Limited Company
REIT - Real Estate Investment Trust
SA - Generally designates corporations in various countries, mostly those employing the civil law.
SE - SE Regulation. A European Company which can operate on a Europe-wide basis and be governed by Community law directly applicable in all Member
States.
SpA - Societa Per Azioni is an Italian shared company.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
|
|
|
|
|
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
ASSETS |
|
|
|
|
Investments, at
value(1) |
|
$756,269,086 |
Cash |
|
4,577,076 |
Foreign currency, at
value(2)
|
|
3,092,844 |
Receivable for investment securities sold |
|
55,510,173 |
Dividends receivable |
|
6,595,611 |
Interest receivable on total return swap contracts |
|
1,047 |
Deposit with broker on total return swap contracts |
|
7,440,000 |
Prepaid and other assets |
|
78,139 |
|
Total Assets |
|
833,563,976 |
|
|
|
LIABILITIES |
|
|
|
|
Loan payable |
|
21,692,000 |
Interest on loan payable |
|
38,131 |
Payable for investment securities purchased |
|
14,148,207 |
Unrealized depreciation on total return swap contracts |
|
1,769,017 |
Interest payable on total return swap contracts |
|
2,560 |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities: |
|
|
Investment advisory fees |
|
688,331 |
Administrative fees |
|
89,484 |
Trustee fees |
|
15,732 |
Officer fees |
|
13,024 |
Other |
|
168,104 |
|
Total Liabilities |
|
38,624,590 |
|
Net Assets |
|
$794,939,386 |
|
|
|
NET ASSETS REPRESENTED BY |
|
|
|
|
Paid-in-capital |
|
$1,986,048,248 |
Distribution in excess of net investment income |
|
(24,977,933) |
Accumulated net realized loss on investments, swap contracts and foreign currency |
|
(1,179,666,243) |
Net unrealized appreciation on investments, swap contracts and foreign currency translations |
|
13,535,314 |
|
Net Assets |
|
$794,939,386 |
|
Net asset value |
|
|
Net assets |
|
$794,939,386 |
Shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding |
|
105,506,077 |
Net asset value per share |
|
$7.53 |
|
|
|
(1)Total
Cost of Investments |
|
$740,871,967 |
(
2)
Total Cost of Foreign Currency |
|
$3,062,155 |
See Notes to Financial
Statements.
|
|
|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
15 |
|
|
|
Statement of Operations |
|
|
For
the Six Months Ended April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
INCOME |
|
|
|
|
Dividends* |
|
$27,386,970 |
Interest |
|
7,333 |
|
Total Income |
|
27,394,303 |
|
|
|
EXPENSES |
|
|
|
|
Interest on loan |
|
217,995 |
Investment advisory fee |
|
4,055,204 |
Administrative fee |
|
527,176 |
Audit and tax fees |
|
17,034 |
Custodian fees |
|
224,170 |
Officer fees |
|
31,994 |
Insurance fees |
|
4,354 |
Legal fees |
|
33,655 |
Printing fees |
|
142,282 |
Trustee fees |
|
31,732 |
NYSE fees |
|
43,364 |
Miscellaneous fees |
|
27,375 |
|
Total Expenses |
|
5,356,335 |
|
Net Investment Income |
|
22,037,968 |
|
|
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS, SWAP CONTRACTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY |
Net realized gain/(loss) on investments: |
|
(18,383,043) |
Securities transactions |
|
(18,996,555) |
Swap contracts |
|
613,511 |
Foreign currency transactions |
|
(578,775) |
|
Net realized loss on investments |
|
(18,961,819) |
|
Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) of: |
|
72,370,938 |
Investments |
|
87,676,268 |
Swap contracts |
|
(1,771,577) |
Foreign currency translations |
|
(12,591,253) |
|
Net unrealized appreciation of investments |
|
73,313,438 |
|
Net realized/unrealized gain on investments, swap contracts and foreign currency |
|
54,351,619 |
|
Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting from Operations |
|
$76,389,587 |
|
|
|
*Net of foreign taxes withheld |
|
$920,643 |
|
See Notes to Financial Statements.
|
|
|
|
|
Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Six Months Ended April 30, 2010 (Unaudited) |
|
For the
Year Ended October 31, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
OPERATIONS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income |
|
$22,037,968 |
|
$53,616,209 |
Net realized gain/(loss) on investments: |
|
|
|
|
Securities transactions |
|
(18,996,555) |
|
(401,582,587) |
Swap contracts |
|
613,511 |
|
(133,674) |
Foreign currency transactions |
|
(578,775) |
|
(2,961,761) |
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) of: |
|
|
|
|
Investments |
|
87,676,268 |
|
556,834,096 |
Swap contracts |
|
(1,771,577) |
|
|
Foreign currency translations |
|
(12,591,253) |
|
89,940,964 |
|
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations |
|
76,389,587 |
|
295,713,247 |
|
|
|
|
DISTRIBUTIONS TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From net investment income |
|
(47,646,542) |
|
(58,530,710) |
|
Net decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders |
|
(47,646,542) |
|
(58,530,710) |
|
|
|
|
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Repurchase of shares |
|
|
|
(1,853,811) |
|
Net decrease in net assets derived from capital share transactions |
|
|
|
(1,853,811) |
|
Net Increase in Net Assets |
|
28,743,045 |
|
235,328,726 |
|
Net Assets |
|
|
|
|
Beginning of period |
|
766,196,341 |
|
530,867,615 |
|
End of period* |
|
$794,939,386 |
|
$766,196,341 |
|
|
|
|
*Including distributions in excess of net investment income/undistributed net investment income of: |
|
$(24,977,933) |
|
$630,641 |
|
See Notes to Financial Statements.
|
|
|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
17 |
|
|
|
Financial Highlights |
|
|
(For a share outstanding throughout the period)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the
Six Months Ended April 30, 2010 (Unaudited) |
|
|
For the Year Ended October 31, 2009 |
|
|
For the Year Ended October 31, 2008 |
|
|
For the Period Ended October 31, 2007
(1) |
|
|
|
PER COMMON SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net asset value per share, beginning of period |
|
$7.26 |
|
|
$5.00 |
|
|
$18.04 |
|
|
$19.10 |
|
|
|
Income/(loss) from investment operations: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income |
|
0.20 |
|
|
0.53 |
|
|
1.41 |
|
|
0.55 |
|
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments, swap contracts and foreign currency |
|
0.52 |
|
|
2.28 |
|
|
(12.93) |
|
|
(0.95) |
|
|
|
Total from investment operations |
|
0.72 |
|
|
2.81 |
|
|
(11.52) |
|
|
(0.40) |
|
|
|
|
|
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From net investment income |
|
(0.45) |
|
|
(0.55) |
|
|
(1.27) |
|
|
(0.56) |
|
From tax return of capital |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.25) |
|
|
(0.07) |
|
|
|
Total distributions |
|
(0.45) |
|
|
(0.55) |
|
|
(1.52) |
|
|
(0.63) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common share offering costs charged to paid-in-capital |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.03) |
|
|
|
Total capital share transactions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.03) |
|
|
|
Net asset value per share, end of period |
|
$7.53 |
|
|
$7.26 |
|
|
$5.00 |
|
|
$18.04 |
|
|
|
Per share market value, end of period |
|
$6.50 |
|
|
$5.79 |
|
|
$4.45 |
|
|
$15.71 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total return based on: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Asset
Value(2) |
|
11.01 |
% |
|
66.15 |
% |
|
(67.74) |
% |
|
(1.69) |
% |
Market Value(2)
|
|
20.15 |
% |
|
48.89 |
% |
|
(67.03) |
% |
|
(18.41) |
% |
|
|
|
|
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Assets attributable to common shares, at end of period (000) |
|
$794,939 |
|
|
$766,196 |
|
|
$530,868 |
|
|
$1,908,062 |
|
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets |
|
1.37%(3)
|
|
|
1.34% |
|
|
1.44% |
|
|
1.21%(3)
|
|
Ratio of total expenses excluding interest expense to average net assets |
|
1.32%(3)
|
|
|
1.33% |
|
|
1.29% |
|
|
|
|
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets |
|
5.65%(3)
|
|
|
9.88% |
|
|
11.41% |
|
|
6.31%(3)
|
|
Portfolio turnover rate |
|
72%(4)
|
|
|
153% |
|
|
263% |
|
|
89%(4)
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
For the period from April 26, 2007 (inception of the fund) to October 31, 2007.
|
(2)
|
Total investment return is calculating assuming a purchase of a common share at the opening on
the first day and a sale at closing on the last day of each period reported. Total investment return on net asset value reflects a $20.00 opening IPO price and sales load of $0.90 per share for the period ending October 31, 2007. Dividends
and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Funds dividend reinvestment plan. Total investment returns do not reflect brokerage commissions. Total investment
returns for less than a full year are not annualized. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. |
(4)
|
Not Annualized. Portfolio turnover rate does not reflect total return swap transactions. (See
Note 2 Under Notes to Financial Statements) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
|
|
|
|
|
Notes to Financial Statements |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
1. ORGANIZATION
Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund (the
Fund) is a diversified, closed-end management investment company. The Funds primary investment objective is capital appreciation. The Funds secondary investment objective is high current income.
The Fund had no operations prior to April 26, 2007 other than matters relating to its organization and the sale and issuance of 213,089.005
shares of beneficial interest in the Fund to a group consisting of Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC (Alpine Woods), certain of its officers and parties either related to or affiliated with those officers and 6,235.602 shares of
beneficial interest in the Fund to the Independent Trustees at the initial subscription price of $19.10 per share. Alpine Woods serves as the Funds investment adviser. The Funds Common Shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange
(NYSE) under the symbol AWP.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant
accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of their financial statements. The policies are in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP), which require
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported herein. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Valuation of Securities: The net asset value (NAV) of shares of the Fund is calculated by dividing the value of the Funds
net assets by the number of outstanding shares. NAV is determined each day the NYSE is open as of the close of regular trading (normally, 4:00 p.m., Eastern time). In computing NAV, portfolio securities of the Fund are valued at their current market
values determined on the basis of market quotations. In computing the Funds net asset value, portfolio securities that are traded on a securities exchange in the United States, except for option securities, are valued at the last reported sale
price as of the time of valuation, or lacking any current reported sale at the time of valuation, at the mean between the most recent bid and asked quotations. Each option security traded on a securities exchange in the United States is valued at
the last current reported sale price as of the time of valuation if the last current reported sale price falls within the consolidated bid/ask quote for the option security. If the last current reported sale price as of the time of valuation does
not fall within the consolidated bid/ask quote for the option security, the security is valued at the mid-point of the consolidated bid/ask quote for the option security. Each security traded in the over-the-counter market and quoted on the NASDAQ
National Market System, is valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price (NOCP), as determined by NASDAQ, or lacking an NOCP, the last current reported sale price as of the time of valuation by NASDAQ, or lacking any current reported sale
on NASDAQ at the time of valuation, at the mean between the most recent bid and asked quotations. Each over-the-counter option that is not traded through the Options Clearing Corporation is valued by the counterparty, or if the counterpartys
price is not readily available then by using the Black-Scholes method. Each other
security traded over-the-counter is valued at the mean between the most recent bid and asked quotations. Short-term securities with maturities of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost,
which approximates fair value.
Securities that are principally traded in a foreign market are valued at the last current sale price at
the time of valuation or lacking any current or reported sale, at the time of valuation, at the mean between the most recent bid and asked quotations as of the close of the appropriate exchange or other designated time. Trading in securities on
European and Far Eastern securities exchanges and over-the-counter markets is normally completed at various times before the close of business on each day on which the NYSE is open. Trading of these securities may not take place on every NYSE
business day. In addition, trading may take place in various foreign markets on Saturdays or on other days when the NYSE is not open and on which the Funds net asset value is not calculated. As stated above, if the market prices are not
readily available or are not reflective of the fair value of the security, as of the close of the regular trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00pm Eastern time), the security will be priced at a fair value following procedures approved by the Board of
Trustees.
When market quotations are not readily available or when the valuation methods mentioned above are not reflective of a fair
value of the security, the security is valued at fair value following procedures and/or guidelines approved by the Board of Trustees. The Fund may also use fair value pricing, if the value of a security it holds is, pursuant to Board of Trustees
guidelines, materially affected by events occurring before the Funds pricing time but after the close of the primary market or exchange on which the security is traded. These procedures may utilize valuations furnished by pricing services
approved by the Board of Trustees, which may be based on market transactions for comparable securities and various relationships between securities that are generally recognized by institutional traders, a computerized matrix system, or appraisals
derived from information concerning the securities or similar securities received from recognized dealers in those securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the value of the portfolio security used to calculate the Funds net asset value
may differ from quoted or official closing prices. In light of the judgment involved in fair value decisions, there can be no assurance that a fair value assigned to a particular security is accurate.
Fair Value Measurement: In accordance with GAAP, the Fund uses a three-tier hierarchy to establish classification of fair value measurements
for disclosure purposes. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs are inputs that
reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the reporting
entities own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on the best information available.
|
|
|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
19 |
|
|
|
Notes to Financial Statements |
|
|
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
Level 1 - |
|
Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access. |
|
|
Level 2 - |
|
Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include
quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates and similar data. |
|
|
Level 3 - |
|
Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, to the extent relevant observable inputs are not available; representing the Funds own assumptions about the
assumptions a market participant would use in valuing the asset or liability, and would be based on the best information available. |
The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, for example, the
type of security, whether the security is new and not
yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to
the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair
value is greatest for instruments categorized in level 3.
The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the
fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls in its entirety, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value
measurement in its entirety.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Funds investments as of the reporting period
end. The designated input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with these investments. These inputs are categorized in the following hierarchy under applicable financial accounting standards.
The following is a summary of the inputs used
to value the Funds net assets as of April 30, 2010:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Valuation Inputs |
|
|
Investments in Securities at Value* |
|
Level 1 |
|
Level 2 |
|
Level 3 |
|
Total |
|
Common Stocks |
|
$733,358,080 |
|
$ |
|
$ |
|
$733,358,080 |
Participation Notes |
|
|
|
12,548,451 |
|
|
|
12,548,451 |
Preferred Stocks |
|
219,000 |
|
2,348,500 |
|
|
|
2,567,500 |
Warrants |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity - Linked Structured Notes |
|
|
|
7,794,416 |
|
|
|
7,794,416 |
Short Term Investments |
|
639 |
|
|
|
|
|
639 |
|
Total |
|
$733,577,719 |
|
$22,691,367 |
|
$ |
|
$756,269,086 |
|
|
|
Valuation Inputs |
|
|
Other Financial Instruments |
|
Level 1 |
|
Level 2 |
|
Level 3 |
|
Total |
|
Total Return Swap Contracts |
|
$ |
|
$(1,769,017) |
|
$ |
|
$(1,769,017) |
|
TOTAL |
|
$ |
|
$(1,769,017) |
|
$ |
|
$(1,769,017) |
|
* |
For detailed country descriptions, see accompanying Schedule of Portfolio Investments. |
Security Transactions and Investment Income: Security transactions are recorded on the
date a security is purchased or sold (i.e. on the trade date). Realized gains and losses are computed on the identified cost basis. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums,
where applicable. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date or in the case of some foreign securities, on the date thereafter when the Fund is made aware of the dividend. Foreign income may be subject to foreign withholding taxes, which
are accrued as applicable. Capital gains realized on some foreign securities are subject to foreign taxes, which are accrued as applicable. Dividends and interest from non-U.S. sources received by the Fund are generally subject to non-U.S.
withholding taxes at rates ranging up to 30%. Such withholding taxes may be reduced or eliminated under the terms of applicable U.S. income tax treaties, and the Fund intends to undertake any procedural steps required to claim the benefits of such
treaties.
Income Taxes: It is the Funds policy to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of
the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute timely, all of its investment company taxable income and net realized capital gains to shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is recorded.
Under applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax may be imposed on interest, dividends, and capital gains earned on foreign investments. Where available, the Fund will file for claims on foreign taxes withheld.
The Fund accounts for uncertainty related to income taxes in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The Fund recognizes tax benefits only if it is more likely
than not that a tax position (including the Funds assertion that its income is exempt from tax) will be sustained upon examination.
|
|
|
|
|
Notes to Financial Statements |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
Distributions: The Fund intends to make a level distribution each month to its shareholders of
the net investment income of the Fund after payment of Fund operating expenses. The level distribution rate may be modified by the Board of Trustees from time to time. If, for any monthly distribution, investment company taxable income, if any
(which term includes net short-term capital gain) and net tax-exempt income, if any, is less than the amount of the distribution, the difference will generally be a tax-free return of capital distributed from the Funds assets. The Funds
final distribution for each calendar year will include any remaining investment company taxable income and net tax-exempt income undistributed during the year, as well as all net capital gains, if any, realized during the year. If the total
distributions made in any fiscal year exceed investment company taxable income, net tax-exempt income and net capital gain, such excess distributed amount would be treated as ordinary dividend income to the extent of the Funds current and
accumulated earnings and profits. Distributions in excess of the earnings and profits would first be a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the adjusted tax basis in the shares. After such adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, the
distribution would constitute capital gain (assuming the shares are held as capital assets). Distributions to shareholders are recorded by the Fund on the ex-dividend date.
Foreign Currency Translation Transactions: The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in foreign securities. In the event that the Fund
executes a foreign security transaction, the Fund will generally enter into a forward foreign currency contract to settle the foreign security transaction. The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Non-U.S. denominated
amounts are translated into U.S. dollars as follows, with the resultant translation gains and losses recorded in the Statements of Operations:
i) |
market value of investment securities and other assets and liabilities at the exchange rate on the valuation date, |
ii) |
purchases and sales of investment securities, income and expenses at the exchange rate prevailing on the respective date of such transactions. |
Risk Associated With Foreign Securities and Currencies: Investments in securities of foreign issuers carry certain risks not ordinarily
associated with investments in securities of domestic issuers. Such risks include future political and economic developments and the possible imposition of exchange controls or other foreign governmental laws and restrictions. In addition, with
netting arrangement between the Fund and the counterparty and by the posting of collateral to the Fund to cover the Funds exposure to
respect to certain countries, there is a possibility of expropriation of assets, confiscatory taxation, political or social instability or diplomatic developments, which could adversely affect
investments in those countries. Certain countries may also impose substantial restrictions on investments in their capital markets by foreign entities, including restrictions on investments in issuers or industries deemed sensitive to relevant
national interests. These factors may limit the investment opportunities available to the Fund or result in a lack of liquidity and high price volatility with respect to securities of issuers from developing countries.
Total Return Swaps: The Fund may invest in total return swap agreements to manage or gain exposure to various securities or markets in
pursuit of it investment objectives.
A total return swap is an agreement between the Fund and a counter-party to exchange a market
linked return for a floating rate payment, both based on a notional principal amount. Because the principal amount is not exchanged, it represents neither an asset nor a liability to either counterparty, and is referred to as notional. Total return
swaps are marked to market daily based upon quotations from the market makers and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss in the Statement of Operations. The unrealized gain (loss) related to the daily change in the
valuation of the notional amount of the swap, as well as the amount due to (owed by) the Fund at termination or settlement, is combined and separately disclosed as an asset (liability). The Fund also records any periodic payments received from (paid
to) the counter-party, including at termination, under such contracts as realized gain (loss).
In connection with these agreements,
securities or cash may be identified as collateral in accordance with the terms of the respective swap agreements to provide assets of value and recourse in the event of default or bankruptcy/insolvency. Entering into these agreements involves, to
varying degrees, elements of credit, market and documentation risk in excess of the amounts recognized on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Such risks involve the possibility that there will be no liquid market for these agreements, that the
counterparty to the agreements may default on its obligation to perform or disagree as to the meaning of contractual terms in the agreements and that there may be unfavorable changes in interest rates. The Funds maximum risk of loss from
counterparty credit risk is the discounted net value of the cash flows to be received from the counterparty over the contracts remaining life, to the extent that amount is positive. The risk may be mitigated by having a master netting
arrangement between the Fund and the counterparty and by the posting of collateral to the Fund to cover the Funds exposure to the counterparty. As of April 30, 2010, the Fund held the following total return swaps:
|
|
|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
21 |
|
|
|
Notes to Financial Statements |
|
|
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Return
Swap
Counterparty: |
|
Rating |
|
Underlying
Security |
|
Shares |
|
Notional
Amount |
|
Floating
Rate Paid
by the
Fund |
|
Floating
Rate
Index |
|
Termination
Date |
|
Unrealized
Depreciation |
|
Collateral |
|
Macquarie |
|
A1 |
|
Castellum AB |
|
300,000 |
|
$3,090,060 |
|
US One
Month LIBOR
+55bps |
|
US One Month LIBOR |
|
4/26/11 |
|
$(374,190) |
|
$1,575,430 |
|
Macquarie |
|
A1 |
|
Hufvudstaden AB |
|
834,586 |
|
7,001,308 |
|
US One
Month LIBOR
+55bps |
|
US One Month LIBOR |
|
4/26/11 |
|
(634,418) |
|
3,415,396 |
|
Macquarie |
|
A1 |
|
NCC AB |
|
292,814 |
|
5,276,567 |
|
US One
Month LIBOR
+55bps |
|
US One Month LIBOR |
|
4/14/11 |
|
(760,409) |
|
2,095,029 |
|
TOTAL |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$15,367,935 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$(1,769,017) |
|
$7,085,855 |
|
During the six months ended April 30, 2010, the Fund entered into approximately three total
return swap agreements with a total notional amount of $15,526,494 and recorded a net realized gain of $613,511 on the Statement of Operations related to investments in total return swaps.
Equity-Linked Structured Notes: The Fund may invest in equity-linked structured notes. Equity-linked structured notes are derivative
securities which are specially designed to combine the characteristics of one or more underlying securities and their equity derivatives in a single note form. The return and/or yield or income component may be based on the performance of the
underlying equity securities, and equity index, and/or option positions. Equity-linked structured notes are typically offered in limited transactions by financial institutions in either registered or non-registered form. An investment in
equity-linked structured notes creates exposure to the credit risk of the issuing financial institution, as well as to the market risk of the underlying securities. There is no guaranteed return of principal with these securities and the
appreciation potential of these securities may be limited by a maximum payment or call right. In certain cases, equity linked structured notes may be more volatile and less liquid than less complex securities or other types of fixed income
securities. Such securities may exhibit price behavior that does not correlate with other fixed-income securities. The Fund did hold equity-linked structured notes at April 30, 2010.
Forward Currency Contracts: The Fund is subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment
objective. The Fund may use forward currency contracts to gain exposure to or hedge against changes in the value of foreign currencies. A forward currency contract (forward) is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell a currency
at a set price on a future date. The market value of the forward contract fluctuates with changes in forward currency exchange rates. The forward contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded by the Fund as unrealized
appreciation or depreciation. When the forward contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the fluctuation in value during the period the forward contract was open. The Fund could be exposed to risk if a counterparty is
unable to meet the terms of a forward or if the value of the currency changes unfavorably. The fund did not hold foreign currency contracts at April 30, 2010.
Derivatives: The Fund has adopted authoritative standards regarding disclosure about derivatives and hedging activities and how they affect
the Funds Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Statement of Operations.
The effect of derivative instruments on the Balance Sheet as of April 30, 2010.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liability Derivatives |
|
|
|
Derivatives not
accounted for as
hedging
instruments |
|
Balance Sheet Location |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
Unrealized depreciation on total return swap contracts |
|
$ |
1,769,017 |
|
|
Unrealized interest receivable on total return swap contracts |
|
|
1,047 |
Total return swap contracts |
|
Unrealized interest payable on total return swap contracts |
|
|
(2,560) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
1,767,504 |
|
The effect on derivatives instruments on the
Statement of Operations for the six months ended April, 30, 2010.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Derivatives
not accounted
for as
hedging
instruments |
|
Location of Gain On Derivatives
Recognized in Income |
|
Realized Gain On
Derivatives Recognized
in Income |
|
Change in Unrealized Loss
On Derivatives Recognized in
Income |
|
Total return swap contracts |
|
Net realized gain on investments: Swap contracts/ Change in net unrealized appreciation of: Swap contracts |
|
$ 613,511 |
|
$ (1,771,577) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ 613,511 |
|
$ (1,771,577) |
|
Use of Estimates: The Funds financial
statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure
of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
|
|
|
|
|
Notes to Financial Statements |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
New Accounting Pronouncements: In January 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board
issued Accounting Standards Updated No. 2010-06, Improving Disclosures About Fair Value Measurements (ASU). The ASU requires enhanced disclosures about (1) transfers into and out of Levels 1 and 2 and
(2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements on a gross basis relating to Level 3 measurements. The first disclosure is effective for the first reporting period (including interim periods) beginning after December 15, 2009, and the
second disclosure will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010, and for interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of this ASU will have on the Funds
financial statement disclosures. The implementation of the ASC did not have a material effect on the Companys financial disclosures contained in this Report.
3. CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
The Fund has an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest, with $0.0001 par value, authorized.
Transactions in shares and dollars of the Fund were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Six Months Ended April 30, 2010 |
|
For the Year Ended October 31, 2009 |
Common Shares Outstanding- beginning of period |
|
105,506,077 |
|
106,088,607 |
Shares repurchased* |
|
|
|
(582,530) |
|
Common shares outstanding- end of period |
|
105,506,077 |
|
105,506,077 |
|
* |
On September 18, 2008, the Fund commenced share repurchases for purposes of enhancing shareholder value and reducing the discount at which the Funds
shares trade from their net asset value. For the years ended October 31, 2008 and 2009, the Fund repurchased 582,530 and 279,276 of its shares at an average discount of 25.66% and 25.00% from net asset value per share, respectively. For the six
months ended April 30, 2010, the Fund did not repurchase any of its shares. The Fund expects to repurchase its outstanding shares at such time and in such amounts as it believes such activity will further the accomplishment of the
foregoing objectives, subject to review of the Board of Trustees. |
4. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES:
Purchases and sales of securities (excluding
short-term securities) for the six months ended April 30, 2010 are as follows:
|
|
|
Purchases |
|
Sales |
|
$ 573,172,761 |
|
$ 644,646,469 |
|
The Fund did not have purchases and sales of U.S.
Government obligations for the six months ended April 30, 2010.
5. INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT:
Alpine Woods serves as the Funds
investment adviser pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Fund. As compensation for its services to the Fund, Alpine Woods receives an annual investment advisory fee of 1.00% based on the Funds average daily managed assets,
computed daily and payable monthly.
ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (ALPS) serves as the Funds administrator pursuant to an
Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement with the Fund. As compensation for its services to the Fund, ALPS receives an annual administration fee of 0.13% based on the Funds average daily total assets, computed daily and
payable monthly.
6. INCOME TAX INFORMATION:
Classification of Distributions: Net
investment income (loss) and net realized gain (loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes. The character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate
characterization for federal income tax purposes.
The tax character of the distributions paid by the Fund during the year ended
October 31, 2009 was as follows:
|
|
|
|
Distributions paid from: |
|
|
|
Ordinary Income |
|
$ |
58,530,710 |
|
|
$ |
58,530,710 |
Tax components of distributable earnings are determined in accordance with income tax regulations which may differ from the composition of net
assets reported under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Accordingly, for the period ended October 31, 2009, the effects of certain differences were reclassified. The Fund increased accumulated net investment income
by $6,395,244, decreased accumulated net realized gain by $6,436,226, and increased paid in capital by $40,982. These differences were primarily due to the differing tax treatment of foreign currency, and certain other investments. Net assets of the
portfolio were unaffected by the reclassifications and the calculation of net investment income per share in the Financial Highlights excludes these adjustments.
At October 31, 2009, the Fund had available for tax purposes unused capital loss carryovers of $78,724,245, expiring October 31, 2015,
and unused capital loss carryovers of $661,143,094 expiring October 31, 2016, and unused capital loss carryovers of $369,606,301, expiring October 31, 2017.
|
|
|
Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
|
23 |
|
|
|
Notes to Financial Statements |
|
|
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
As of October 31, 2009, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Undistributed Ordinary Income |
|
$ |
27,090,388 |
|
Accumulated Capital Loss |
|
|
(1,109,473,640 |
) |
Unrealized Depreciation |
|
|
(137,472,338 |
) |
Other Cumulative Effect of Temporary Differences |
|
|
3,683 |
|
Total |
|
$ |
(1,219,851,907 |
) |
As of April 30, 2010, net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) of investments based on federal tax costs was as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Gross appreciation on investments |
|
(excess of value over tax cost) |
|
$ |
125,481,684 |
|
Gross depreciation on investments |
|
(excess of tax cost over value) |
|
|
(157,032,752 |
) |
Net unrealized depreciation |
|
|
(31,551,068 |
) |
Cost of investments for income tax purposes |
|
$ |
787,820,154 |
|
The differences between book and tax net unrealized appreciation and cost were primarily due to deferral of losses from wash sales and to the
different tax treatment of certain other investments.
7. LINE OF CREDIT:
On July 9, 2009, an Agreement among
Alpine Global Dynamic Dividend Fund, Alpine Total Dynamic Dividend Fund, Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund (together, the Funds) and The Bank of New York (BONY) was executed which allows for each Fund to borrow against a
secured line of credit from BONY an aggregate amount of up to $350,000,000 for all Funds. As of April 30, 2010 there was an unused balance of $133,148,000 available to all three Funds. During the six months ended of April 30, 2010, the
average borrowing by the Fund was $31,249,860 with an average rate on borrowings of 1.39%.
8. OTHER:
Compensation of Trustees: The
Independent Trustees of the Fund receive $4,000 for each meeting attended.
9. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS:
In preparing these financial statements, the
Fund has evaluated events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure resulting from subsequent events.
Distributions: The Fund paid a distribution of $3,481,701 or $0.033 per common share on May 28, 2010 to common shareholders of record
on May 24, 2010.
The Fund also declared a distribution of $0.033 payable on June 30, 2010 to common shareholders of records
on June 24, 2010.
|
|
|
|
|
Additional Information |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN
Unless the registered owner of common shares
elects to receive cash by contacting The Bank of New York (the Plan Administrator), all dividends or other distributions (together, Dividends and each, a Dividend) declared on common shares will be automatically
reinvested by the Plan Administrator for shareholders in the Funds Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the Plan), in additional common shares of the Fund. Shareholders that are not permitted to7 participate through their broker or nominee
or who elect not to participate in the Plan will receive all Dividends in cash paid by check mailed directly to the shareholder of record (or, if the common shares are held in street or other nominee name, then to such nominee) by the Plan
Administrator, as dividend disbursing agent. You may elect not to participate in the Plan and to receive all Dividends in cash by contacting the Plan Administrator, as dividend disbursing agent, at the address set forth below. Participation in the
Plan is completely voluntary and may be terminated or resumed at any time without penalty by notice if received and processed by the Plan Administrator prior to the dividend record date; otherwise such termination or resumption will be effective
with respect to any subsequently declared Dividend. If you hold your shares through a broker, and you wish for all Dividends declared on your common shares to be automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan, please contact your broker.
The Plan Administrator will open an account for each shareholder under the Plan in the same name in which such shareholders common shares are
registered. Whenever the Fund declares a Dividend payable in cash, non-participants in the Plan will receive cash and participants in the Plan will receive the equivalent in common shares. The common shares will be acquired by the Plan Administrator
for the participants accounts, depending upon the circumstances described below, either (i) through receipt of additional unissued but authorized common shares from the Fund (Newly Issued common shares) or (ii) by
purchase of outstanding common shares on the open market (Open-Market Purchases) on the NYSE or elsewhere. If, on the payment date for any Dividend, the closing market price plus estimated brokerage commissions per share is equal to or
greater than the NAV per share, the Plan Administrator will invest the Dividend amount in Newly Issued common shares on behalf of the participants. The number of Newly Issued common shares to be credited to each participants account will be
determined by dividing the dollar amount of the Dividend by the NAV per share on the payment date; provided that, if the NAV is less than or equal to 95% of the closing market value on the payment date, the dollar amount of the Dividend will be
divided by 95% of the closing market price per share on the payment date. If, on the payment date for any Dividend, the NAV per share is greater than the closing market value plus estimated brokerage commissions, the Plan Administrator will invest
the Dividend amount in common shares acquired on behalf of the participants in Open-Market Purchases.
In the event of a market discount
on the payment date for any Dividend, the Plan Administrator will have until the last business day before the next date on which the common shares trade on an ex-dividend basis or 30 days after the payment date for such Dividend,
whichever is sooner (the Last Purchase Date), to invest the
Dividend amount in common shares acquired in Open-Market Purchases. If, before the Plan Administrator has completed its Open-Market Purchases, the market price per share exceeds the NAV per
share, the average per share purchase price paid by the Plan Administrator may exceed the NAV of the common shares, resulting in the acquisition of fewer common shares than if the Dividend had been paid in Newly Issued common shares on the Dividend
payment date. Because of the foregoing difficulty with respect to Open-Market Purchases, the Plan provides that if the Plan Administrator is unable to invest the full Dividend amount in Open-Market Purchases during the purchase period or if the
market discount shifts to a market premium during the purchase period, the Plan Administrator may cease making Open-Market Purchases and may invest the uninvested portion of the Dividend amount in Newly Issued common shares at the NAV per share at
the close of business on the Last Purchase Date provided that, if the NAV is less than or equal to 95% of the then current market price per share, the dollar amount of the Dividend will be divided by 95% of the market price on the payment date for
purposes of determining the number of shares issuable under the Plan.
The Plan Administrator maintains all shareholders accounts
in the Plan and furnishes written confirmation of all transactions in the accounts, including information needed by shareholders for tax records. Common shares in the account of each Plan participant will be held by the Plan Administrator on behalf
of the Plan participant, and each shareholder proxy will include those shares purchased or received pursuant to the Plan. The Plan Administrator will forward all proxy solicitation materials to participants and vote proxies for shares held under the
Plan in accordance with the instructions of the participants.
In the case of the Funds shareholders such as banks, brokers or
nominees which hold shares for others who are the beneficial owners, the Plan Administrator will administer the Plan on the basis of the number of common shares certified from time to time by the record shareholders name and held for the
account of beneficial owners who participate in the Plan.
There will be no brokerage charges with respect to common shares issued
directly by the Fund. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred in connection with Open-Market Purchases. The automatic reinvestment of Dividends will not relieve participants of any U.S. federal, state or
local income tax that may be payable (or required to be withheld) on such Dividends. See U.S. Federal Income Tax Matters. Participants that request a sale of common shares through the Plan Administrator are subject to brokerage
commissions.
Shareholders participating in the Plan may receive benefits not available to shareholders not participating in the Plan.
If the market price plus commissions of the Funds shares is higher than the NAV, participants in the Plan will receive shares of the Fund for less than they could otherwise purchase them and will have shares with a cash value greater than the
value of any cash distribution they would have received on their shares. If the market price plus commissions is below the net asset value, participants receive distributions of shares with a NAV greater than the value of any cash
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Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
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Additional Information |
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April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
distribution they would have received on their shares. However, there may be insufficient shares available in the market to make distributions in shares at prices below the NAV. Also, because the
Fund does not redeem its shares, the price on resale may be more or less than the NAV.
The Fund reserves the right to amend or
terminate the Plan. There is no direct service charge to participants with regard to purchases in the Plan; however, the Fund reserves the right to amend the Plan to include a service charge payable by the participants.
All correspondence or questions concerning the Plan should be directed to the Plan Administrator, The Bank of New York, at One Wall Street, New
York, New York 10286 or by calling toll-free 1(800)432.8224.
BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
On January 5, 2010, at a meeting called
for the purpose of voting on such approval, the Boards of Trustees, including all of the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Contract or interested persons of any such party (the non-interested Trustees), approved the continuance of the
Advisory Contract for the Fund. In so doing, the Board Members studied materials specifically relating to the Advisory Contracts provided by the Adviser, the Funds counsel and the Funds administrator (ALPS). The Board Members
considered a variety of factors, including the following:
The Board Members considered the expected nature, quality and scope of the
management and investment advisory services and personnel provided to the Fund by the Adviser; the rate of investment advisory fees payable to the Adviser and a comparison of the fees paid by comparable funds; the compensation (in addition to the
investment advisory fees) and other benefits received by the Adviser and its respective affiliates; the Advisers costs in providing services; the economies of scale realized by the Adviser; the annual operating expenses of the Fund; and the
policies and practices of the Adviser with respect to portfolio transactions for the Fund.
After reviewing the diligence materials
provided by ALPS, the Adviser and Fund Counsel, the Board began a discussion to assess the overall quality of services the Board considered the Advisers specific responsibilities in all aspects of day-to-day management of the Fund managed by
the Adviser, as well as the qualifications, experience and responsibilities of the portfolio managers and other key personnel at the Adviser involved in the day-to-day activities of the Fund. The Board also considered, with regard to the Fund, the
prior relationship between the Adviser and the Fund, as well as the Boards knowledge of the Advisers operations. The Trustees also considered the Advisers marketing activity and commitment to Fund growth. The Trustees also
considered the structure and effectiveness of the Advisers compliance procedures and the Advisers record of willingness to meet in person with the Trustees to discuss various performance, marketing and compliance issues. The Trustees
also noted any services that extended beyond portfolio management, and they considered the trading capability of the Adviser.
The Board Members also evaluated the investment performance of the Fund on an absolute basis,
relative to its respective benchmark indices over the last year, three years, five years, ten years and since inception (as applicable) and in comparison to its relative peer groups.
The Board Members also reviewed Morningstar analytical data relating to average expenses and advisory fees for comparable funds. Based on the
information provided, the Board Members determined that the Funds fee structure is competitive with funds having similar investment goals and strategies.
The Board Members considered the Funds total expense ratios and contractual investment advisory fee compared to its respective industry
average by quartile, within the appropriate Morningstar benchmark category and Morningstar category range. The Board Members also considered the amount and nature of fees paid by shareholders.
The Trustees also considered the overall profitability of the Adviser, reviewing certain financial information and noting in particular whether the
Adviser had subsidized a Funds operations in its early years and whether it had recouped the amount of these subsidies. The Trustees considered both the direct and indirect benefits to the Adviser from advising the Funds. The Trustees also
examined the level of profits that could be expected to accrue to the Adviser from the fees payable under the Agreements and any expense subsidization undertaken by the Adviser, as well as the Funds brokerage and commissions. It was noted that
the Funds management fee and expense ratio are within the average range compared to its peer funds.
Based on the Board
Members review and consultation with the Funds independent counsel, of the material aspects of the Advisory Contracts, including the foregoing factors and such other information believed to be reasonably necessary to evaluate the terms
of the Advisory Contracts, the Board Members, including all of the non-interested Trustees voting separately, concluded that the continuation of the Advisory Contracts would be in the best interest of the Funds shareholders, and determined
that the compensation to the Adviser provided for in the Advisory Contracts is fair and equitable.
FUND PROXY VOTING POLICIES & PROCEDURES
Policies and procedures used
in determining how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and a summary of proxies voted by the Fund are available without a charge, upon request, by contacting the Fund at 1(800)910.1434 and on the Securities and Exchange
Commissions (Commission) web site at http://www.sec.gov.
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Fund files its complete schedule of
portfolio holdings with the Commission for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q within 60 days after the end of the period. Copies of the Funds Forms N-Q are available without a charge, upon request, by contacting the
Fund at 1(800)617.7616 and on the Commissions web site at http://www.sec.gov. You may also review and copy Form
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Additional Information |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
N-Q at the Commissions Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. For more information about the
operation of the Public Reference Room, please call the Commission at 1(800)SEC.0330.
SHAREHOLDER MEETING
On March 18, 2010, the Fund held its
Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the Meeting) for the purpose of voting on a proposal to re-elect two trustees of the Fund. The results of the proposal are as follows:
Proposal: To elect Messrs. James A. Jacobson and H. Guy Leibler as Trustees to the Board of Trustees for a term of three years until their
successor has been duly elected and qualified.
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James A. Jacobson |
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H. Guy Leibler |
For |
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98.29% |
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98.39% |
Withheld |
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1.71% |
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1.61% |
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 23(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 that the Fund may purchase at market prices from
time to time its common shares in the open market.
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Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
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27 |
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Additional Information |
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April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
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INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES* |
Name and Age |
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Position(s) Held
with the Fund |
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Principal Occupation During
Past Five Years |
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# of Portfolios
in Alpine Fund Complex** |
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Other Directorships
Held by Trustee |
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Laurence B. Ashkin (82) |
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Independent Trustee |
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Real estate developer and construction consultant since 1980; Founder and President of Centrum Properties,
Inc. since 1980. |
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16 |
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Trustee, Alpine Family of Funds.* Director, Chicago Public Radio, Board Chair, The Perspectives Charter Schools. |
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H. Guy Leibler (55) |
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Independent Trustee |
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Private investor since 2007, Vice Chair and Chief Operating Officer of L&L Acquisitions LLC
(2004-2007); President, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (2001-2004). |
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16 |
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Chairman Emeritus, White Plains Hospital Center; Trustee, Trustee, Alpine Family of Funds.* |
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Jeffrey E. Wacksman (49) |
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Independent Trustee |
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Partner, Loeb, Block & Partners LLP since 1994. |
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16 |
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Director, International Succession Planning Association; Trustee, Larchmont Manor Park Society; Director,
Bondi Icebergs Inc.; Director, MH Properties, Inc.; Trustee, Trustee, Alpine Family of Funds. * |
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James A. Jacobson (65) |
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Independent Trustee |
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Retired (11/2008-Present);
Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Spear Leeds & Kellogg Specialists, LLC (01/2003-11/2008).
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16 |
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Trustee, Alpine Family of Funds. * Trustee, Allianz Global Investors Multi-Funds. |
* |
The Independent Trustees identified above are the members of the Board of Trustees for each of the Alpine Series Trust, Alpine Equity Trust and Alpine Income Trust,
Alpine Global Dynamic Dividend Fund, and Alpine Total Dynamic Dividend Fund (collectively, the Alpine Family of Funds). |
** |
Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC manages thirteen other fund portfolios within the three Alpine Trusts. Each of the Alpine Trusts is registered as an open-end
management investment company. The Trustees oversee each of the thirteen portfolios within the Alpine Trusts. |
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Additional Information |
April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
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INTERESTED TRUSTEE |
Name and Age |
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Position(s) Held
with the Fund |
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Principal Occupation
During Past Five Years |
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# of Portfolios
in Alpine Fund Complex** |
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Other Directorships
Held by Trustee |
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Samuel A. Lieber* (53) |
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Interested Trustee
and President |
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Chief Executive Officer of Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC since November 1997. President of Alpine
Trusts since 1998. |
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16 |
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Trustee, Alpine Family of Funds. |
* |
Samuel A. Lieber has been a Trustee of the Fund since its inception. He is the son of Stephen A. Lieber. |
** |
Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC manages thirteen other fund portfolios within the three Alpine Trusts. Each of the Alpine Trusts is registered as an open-end
management investment company. The Trustees oversee each of the thirteen portfolios within the Alpine Trusts. |
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Semi-Annual Report (Unaudited) | April 30, 2010 |
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29 |
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Additional Information |
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April 30, 2010 (Unaudited)
In addition to Mr. Samuel A. Lieber, the table below identifies the Funds executive officers.
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Name and Age |
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Position(s) Held
with the Fund |
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Principal Occupation During
Past Five Years |
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# of Portfolios
in Alpine Fund Complex** |
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Other Directorships Held by Trustee |
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Stephen A. Lieber (84)* |
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Executive Vice
President |
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Chief Investment Officer, Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC since 2003; Chairman and Senior Portfolio
Manager, Saxon Woods Advisors, LLC since 1999. |
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N/A |
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None |
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John M. Megyesi (49) |
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Chief Compliance Officer |
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Chief Compliance Officer, Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC since January 2009; Vice President and
Manager, Trade Surveillance, Credit Suisse Asset Management, LLC (2006-2009); Manager, Trading and Surveillance, Allianz Global Investors (2004-2006). |
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N/A |
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None |
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Ronald Palmer (41) |
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Chief Financial Officer |
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Chief Financial Officer, Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC since January 2010; Independent Consultant
(2008-2009); Vice President, Cash Management and Foreign Exchange, Macquarie Capital Management, LLC (2007-2008); Chief Operating Officer, Macquarie Fund Adviser, LLC (2004-2007).
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N/A |
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None |
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Meimei Li (46) |
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Treasurer |
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Controller, Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC since February 2007; Senior Accountant, Pinnacle Group
(2005-2007); Senior Auditor, Eisner & Lubin LLP (2001-2005). |
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N/A |
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None |
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Andrew Pappert (30) |
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Secretary |
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Director of Fund Operations, Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC since September 2008; Assistant Vice
President, Mutual Fund Operations, Credit Suisse Asset Management, LLC (2003-2008). |
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N/A |
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None |
* |
Stephen A. Lieber is the father of Samuel A. Lieber. |
** |
Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC manages thirteen other fund portfolios within the three Alpine Trusts. Each of the Alpine Trusts is registered as an open-end
management investment company. The Trustees oversee each of the thirteen portfolios within the Alpine Trusts. |
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1 (800) 617.7616 | www.alpinecef.com |
INVESTOR |
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INFORMATION |
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INVESTMENT ADVISER
Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC
2500 Westchester Ave., Suite 215
Purchase, NY 10577
ADMINISTRATOR
ALPS Fund Services, Inc.
1290 Broadway,
Suite 1100
Denver, CO 80203
TRANSFER AGENT &
CUSTODIAN
The
Bank of New York Mellon
One Wall Street
New York, NY 10286
INDEPENDENT
REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Deloitte & Touche LLP
555 East
Wells Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
FUND COUNSEL
Blank Rome LLP
The Chrysler Building
405 Lexington Avenue
New
York, NY 10174
INVESTOR INFORMATION
1(800) 617.7616
www.alpinecef.com
Not
applicable to semi-annual report.
Item 3. |
Audit Committee Financial Expert. |
Not applicable to semi-annual report.
Item 4. |
Principal Accountant Fees and Services. |
Not applicable to semi-annual report.
Item 5. |
Audit Committee of Listed Registrants. |
Not applicable to semi-annual report.
Item 6. |
Schedule of Investments. |
The Schedule of Investments is included as part of the Report to Stockholders filed under Item 1 of this form.
Item 7. |
Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies. |
Not applicable to semi-annual report.
Item 8. |
Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies. |
Not applicable to semi-annual report.
Item 9. |
Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers. |
Not applicable.
Item 10. |
Submission of Matters to Vote of Security Holders. |
There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrants board of
trustees.
Item 11. |
Controls and Procedures. |
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(a) |
The registrants principal executive officer and principal financial officer have evaluated the registrants disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) within 90 days of this filing and have concluded that the registrants disclosure controls and procedures were effective, as of that date. |
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(b) |
There was no change in the registrants internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended) during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrants internal control over financial reporting. |
(a)(1) Not
applicable to semi-annual report
(a)(2) The certifications required by Rule 30a-2(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are attached hereto as Ex99.Cert.
(a)(3) Not applicable.
(b) The certifications by the registrants Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, as required by
Rule 30a-2(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are attached hereto as Ex99.906Cert.
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.
Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund
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By: |
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/s/ Samuel A. Lieber |
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Samuel A. Lieber |
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Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
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Date: |
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July 9, 2010 |
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.
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By: |
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/s/ Samuel A. Lieber |
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Samuel A. Lieber |
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Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
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Date: |
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July 9, 2010 |
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By: |
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/s/ Ronald G. Palmer, Jr. |
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Ronald G. Palmer, Jr. |
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Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |
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Date: |
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July 9, 2010 |