Unassociated Document
 


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


FORM N-Q


Quarterly Schedule of Portfolio Holdings of
Registered Management Investment Company

Investment Company Act file number 811-05531




Barings Participation Investors

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)



1500 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01115

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)



Janice M. Bishop, Vice President, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer
Independence Wharf, 470 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA  02210

(Name and address of agent for service)



Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 413-226-1000


___________________


Date of fiscal year end: 12/31

___________________


Date of reporting period: 09/30/17

___________________
 
 

 


 
 
ITEM 1. SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities - 79.17%: (A)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
Private Placement Investments - 66.73%: (C)
 
1492 Acquisition LLC
 
A leading producer of premium Italian cured meats and deli meats in the U.S.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A Preferred (B)
 
102 uts.
   
10/17/12
   
$
102,270
   
$
148,310
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A Common (B)
 
11,364 uts.
   
10/17/12
     
11,364
     
240,224
 
 
               
113,634
     
388,534
 
 
                           
ABC Industries, Inc.
 
A manufacturer of mine and tunneling ventilation products in the U.S.
 
13% Senior Subordinated Note due 07/31/2019
 
$
109,335
   
08/01/12
     
105,086
     
108,740
 
Preferred Stock Series A (B)
 
125,000 shs.
   
08/01/12
     
125,000
     
251,460
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2022, to purchase
common stock at $.02 per share (B)
 
22,414 shs.
   
08/01/12
     
42,446
     
42,589
 
 
                 
272,532
     
402,789
 
 
                             
Advanced Manufacturing Enterprises LLC
 
A designer and manufacturer of large, custom gearing products for a number of critical customer applications.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)
 
1,945 uts.
     
*
     
207,910
     
 
* 12/07/12, 07/11/13 and 06/30/15.
                               
 
                               
AFC - Dell Holding Corporation
 
A distributor and provider of inventory management services for "C-Parts" used by OEMs in their manufacturing and production facilities.
 
12.5% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 09/27/2020
 
$
1,212,377
   
03/27/15
     
1,197,524
     
1,224,501
 
Preferred Stock (B)
 
1,122 shs.
   
03/27/15
     
112,154
     
130,707
 
Common Stock (B)
 
346 shs.
   
03/27/15
     
346
     
 
 
                   
1,310,024
     
1,355,208
 
 
                               
Airxcel Holdings
 
A leading manufacturer of a broad range of climate control solutions, including air-conditioners, heat pumps, cooking appliances, furnaces, powered vents, and water heaters.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit
 
288 uts.
   
11/18/14
     
288,000
     
617,324
 
 
                               
 
                               
AM Conservation Holding Corp.
 
A supplier of energy efficiency ("EE") products, including lighting, shower heads and aerators, and weatherization products such as door seals and weather stripping.
 
11.75% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 04/30/2023
 
$
1,568,182
   
10/31/16
     
1,539,920
     
1,576,467
 
Common Stock (B)
 
156,818 shs.
   
10/31/16
     
156,818
     
237,645
 
 
                   
1,696,738
     
1,814,112
 
 
                               
 
 
 

8
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
AMS Holding LLC
 
A leading multi-channel direct marketer of high-value collectible coins and proprietary-branded jewelry and watches.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A Preferred (B)(F)
 
114 uts.
   
10/04/12
   
$
113,636
   
$
284,979
 
 
                           
 
                           
API Technologies Corp.
 
A designer, developer and manufacturer of electronic systems, subsystems, modules and secure communications for technically demanding defense, aerospace and commercial applications in the U.S. and internationally.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 04/22/2023
 
$
1,399,969
   
04/22/16
     
1,388,664
     
1,423,830
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)
 
0.40% int.
   
04/20/16
     
345,000
     
417,450
 
 
                 
1,733,664
     
1,841,280
 
 
                             
ARI Holding Corporation
 
A leading national supplier of products used primarily by specialty contractors.
 
11.5% (0.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 02/01/2020
 
$
1,719,544
     
*
     
1,706,033
     
1,719,544
 
Limited Partnership Interest
 
524 uts.
   
08/01/14
     
523,950
     
581,460
 
* 05/21/13 and 08/01/14.
                   
2,229,983
     
2,301,004
 
 
                               
 
                               
ASC Holdings, Inc.
 
A manufacturer of capital equipment used by corrugated box manufacturers.
 
13% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 05/18/2021
 
$
754,313
   
11/19/15
     
743,388
     
726,916
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)
 
111,100 uts.
   
11/18/15
     
111,100
     
42,885
 
 
                   
854,488
     
769,801
 
 
                               
Aurora Parts & Accessories LLC
 
A distributor of aftermarket over-the-road semi-trailer parts and accessories sold to customers across North America.
 
11% Senior Subordinated Note
due 02/17/2022
 
$
1,515,400
   
08/17/15
     
1,493,316
     
1,487,572
 
Preferred Stock (B)
 
210 shs.
   
08/17/15
     
209,390
     
152,452
 
Common Stock (B)
 
210 shs.
   
08/17/15
     
210
     
 
 
                   
1,702,916
     
1,640,024
 
 
                               
Avantech Testing Services LLC
 
A manufacturer of custom Non-Destructive Testing ("NDT") systems and provider of NDT and inspections services primarily to the oil country tubular goods market.
 
15% (3.75% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 01/31/2021 (D)
 
$
500,587
   
07/31/14
     
491,228
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
45,504 uts.
     
*
     
     
 
* 07/31/14 and 10/14/15.
                   
491,228
     
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 

9
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
     
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
BEI Precision Systems & Space Company, Inc.
 
A provider of advanced design, manufacturing, and testing for custom optical encoder-based positioning systems, precision accelerometers, and micro scanners.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 04/28/2024
 
$
1,455,118
     
04/28/17
   
$
1,427,284
   
$
1,472,294
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
2,760 uts.
     
04/28/17
     
276,000
     
188,967
 
 
           
 
     
1,703,284
     
1,661,261
 
 
           
 
                 
Blue Wave Products, Inc.
 
A distributor of pool supplies.
           
 
                 
10% Senior Secured Term Note due 09/30/2018
 
$
79,433
     
10/12/12
     
79,100
     
79,433
 
13% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 09/30/2019
 
$
333,907
     
10/12/12
     
324,664
     
333,907
 
Common Stock (B)
 
51,064 shs.
     
10/12/12
     
51,064
     
376,380
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2022, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
20,216 shs.
     
10/12/12
     
20,216
     
149,007
 
 
           
 
     
475,044
     
938,727
 
 
           
 
                 
BlueSpire Holding, Inc.
 
A marketing services firm that integrates strategy, technology, and content to deliver customized marketing solutions for clients in the senior living, financial services and healthcare end markets.
 
12.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note due 06/30/2021 (D)
 
$
1,585,908
     
06/30/15
     
1,561,276
     
 
Common Stock (B)
 
1,417 shs.
     
06/30/15
     
156,800
     
 
 
           
 
     
1,718,076
     
 
 
           
 
                 
BP SCI LLC
 
A leading value-added distributor of branded pipes, valves, and fittings (PVF) to diversified end markets.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A (B)(F)
 
417 uts.
     
10/17/12
     
41,667
     
263,730
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B (B)(F)
 
167 uts.
     
10/17/12
     
166,666
     
292,916
 
 
           
 
     
208,333
     
556,646
 
 
           
 
                 
CG Holdings Manufacturing Company
 
A coating provider serving the automotive, agricultural, heavy truck and other end markets.
 
13% Senior Subordinated Note due 11/01/2019
 
$
1,412,605
     
*
     
1,370,751
     
1,412,606
 
Preferred Stock (B)
 
1,350 shs.
     
*
     
134,972
     
182,772
 
Preferred Stock (B)
 
489 shs.
     
*
     
48,721
     
66,245
 
Common Stock (B)
 
140 shs.
     
*
     
14,864
     
410,593
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2023, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
58 shs.
     
*
     
5,430
     
170,546
 
* 05/09/13 and 11/01/13.
           
 
     
1,574,738
     
2,242,762
 
 
           
 
                 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

10
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
CHG Alternative Education Holding Company
 
A leading provider of publicly-funded, for profit pre-K-12 education services targeting special needs children at therapeutic day schools and "at risk" youth through alternative education programs.
 
13.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 06/19/2020
 
$
788,793
   
01/19/11
   
$
782,350
   
$
788,793
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 06/19/2020
 
$
208,134
   
08/03/12
     
206,653
     
208,134
 
Common Stock (B)
 
375 shs.
   
01/19/11
     
37,500
     
38,118
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2021, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
295 shs.
   
01/19/11
     
29,250
     
29,963
 
 
                 
1,055,753
     
1,065,008
 
 
                             
Church Services Holding Company
 
A provider of diversified residential services to homeowners in the Houston, Dallas, and Austin markets.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
1 ut.
   
03/26/12
     
189,978
     
 
 
                             
 
                             
Clarion Brands Holding Corp.
 
A portfolio of six over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceutical brands whose products are used to treat tinnitus or ringing of the ear, excessive sweating, urinary tract infections, muscle pain, and skin conditions.
 
12.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 04/01/2021
 
$
2,046,289
     
*
     
2,018,735
     
2,042,283
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)
 
1,853 uts.
   
07/18/16
     
189,267
     
138,404
 
* 10/01/14 and 07/18/16.
                   
2,208,002
     
2,180,687
 
 
                               
 
                               
Clough, Harbour and Associates
 
An engineering service firm that is located in Albany, NY.
 
Preferred Stock (B)
 
147 shs.
   
12/02/08
     
146,594
     
858,132
 
 
                               
 
                               
Compass Chemical International LLC
 
A manufacturer and supplier of standard and specialty formulated chemicals, primarily phosphoric acid derivatives called phosphonates.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
230 uts.
   
03/04/15
     
147,304
     
192,425
 
 
                               
 
                               
Connecticut Electric, Inc.
 
A supplier and distributor of electrical products sold into the retail and wholesale markets.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A (B)
 
82,613 uts.
   
01/12/07
     
82,613
     
128,941
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class C (B)
 
59,756 uts.
   
01/12/07
     
59,756
     
103,728
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class D (B)
 
671,525 uts.
   
05/03/10
     
     
1,120,057
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class E (B)
 
1,102 uts.
   
05/03/10
     
     
260,556
 
 
                   
142,369
     
1,613,282
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

11
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
CORA Health Services, Inc.
 
A provider of outpatient rehabilitation therapy services.
 
12.75% (1.75% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 06/30/2023
 
$
775,013
   
06/30/16
   
$
761,884
   
$
793,088
 
Preferred Stock Series A (B)
 
758 shs.
   
06/30/16
     
72,033
     
84,218
 
Common Stock Class A (B)
 
3,791 shs.
   
06/30/16
     
3,791
     
23,287
 
 
                 
837,708
     
900,593
 
 
                             
CTM Holding, Inc.
 
A leading owner and operator of coin-operated children's rides, penny presses and candy kiosks in the U.S.
 
15% (3% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 11/22/2019
 
$
1,326,281
   
11/22/13
     
1,315,315
     
1,326,281
 
Common Stock (B)
 
90 shs.
     
*
     
514,284
     
558,242
 
* 11/22/13 and 09/16/16.
                   
1,829,599
     
1,884,523
 
 
                               
 
                               
Del Real LLC
                               
A manufacturer and distributor of fully-prepared fresh refrigerated Hispanic entrees as well as side dishes that are typically sold on a heat-and-serve basis at retail grocers.
 
11% Senior Subordinated Note due 04/06/2023
 
$
1,420,588
   
10/07/16
     
1,395,269
     
1,420,588
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
304,412 uts.
   
10/07/16
     
304,412
     
337,897
 
 
                   
1,699,681
     
1,758,485
 
 
                               
DPL Holding Corporation
                               
A distributor and manufacturer of aftermarket undercarriage parts for medium and heavy duty trucks and trailers.
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 11/04/2020
 
$
1,425,125
   
05/04/12
     
1,415,222
     
1,399,628
 
Preferred Stock (B)
 
25 shs.
   
05/04/12
     
252,434
     
200,106
 
Common Stock (B)
 
25 shs.
   
05/04/12
     
28,048
     
 
 
                   
1,695,704
     
1,599,734
 
 
                               
Dunn Paper
                               
A provider of specialty paper for niche product applications.
 
9.75% Second Lien Term Loan due 08/31/2023
 
$
1,725,000
   
09/28/16
     
1,695,344
     
1,690,500
 
 
                               
 
                               
Eagle Family Foods, Inc.
                               
A producer of low-cost branded and private label canned milk.
 
10.05% Last Out Term Loan due 12/31/2021
 
$
1,725,000
   
12/22/15
     
1,706,680
     
1,709,376
 
0.29% Second Last Out Term Loan due 8/29/2023
 
$
177,404
   
09/07/17
     
175,646
     
175,797
 
 
                   
1,882,326
     
1,885,173
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

12
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
     
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                           
ECG Consulting Group
         
 
             
A healthcare management consulting company who provides strategic, financial, operational, and technology related consulting services to healthcare providers.
 
11.75% (0.75% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 11/21/2020
 
$
1,321,758
     
11/21/14
   
$
1,303,731
   
$
1,334,976
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
230 uts.
     
11/19/14
     
71,875
     
139,556
 
 
           
 
     
1,375,606
     
1,474,532
 
 
           
 
                 
Elite Sportwear Holding, LLC
           
 
                 
A designer and manufacturer of gymnastics, competitive cheerleading and swimwear apparel in the U.S. and internationally.
 
11.5% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 10/13/2021
 
$
1,580,639
     
10/14/16
     
1,557,371
     
1,583,673
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
101 uts.
     
10/14/16
     
159,722
     
147,915
 
 
           
 
     
1,717,093
     
1,731,588
 
 
           
 
                 
English Color & Supply LLC
           
 
                 
A distributor of aftermarket automotive paint and related products to collision repair shops, auto dealerships and fleet customers through a network of stores in the Southern U.S.
 
11.5% (0.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 12/31/2023
 
$
1,328,964
     
06/30/17
     
1,303,438
     
1,331,902
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
397,695 uts.
     
06/30/17
     
397,695
     
437,465
 
 
           
 
     
1,701,133
     
1,769,367
 
 
           
 
                 
ERG Holding Company LLC
           
 
                 
A provider of inpatient and outpatient clinical trial services to pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations.
 
13.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 10/04/2019
 
$
980,292
     
04/04/14
     
971,823
     
980,292
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 10/04/2019
 
$
258,346
     
07/01/16
     
254,967
     
259,508
 
Common Stock (B)
 
0.31% int.
     
04/04/14
     
77,533
     
77,525
 
 
           
 
     
1,304,323
     
1,317,325
 
 
           
 
                 
F F C Holding Corporation
           
 
                 
A leading U.S. manufacturer of private label frozen novelty and ice cream products.
                 
Limited Liability Company Unit Preferred (B)
 
171 uts.
     
09/27/10
     
58,345
     
85,700
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Common (B)
 
171 uts.
     
09/27/10
     
17,073
     
439,547
 
 
           
 
     
75,418
     
525,247
 
 
           
 
                 
 
 
 
 

13
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
     
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                           
F G I Equity LLC
         
 
             
A manufacturer of a broad range of filters and related products that are used in commercial, light industrial, healthcare, gas turbine, nuclear, laboratory, clean room, hotel, educational system, and food processing settings.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Preferred (B)
 
80,559 uts.
     
04/15/14
   
$
   
$
80,559
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B-1 (B)
 
65,789 uts.
     
12/15/10
     
65,789
     
334,823
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B-2 (B)
 
8,248 uts.
     
12/15/10
     
8,248
     
41,977
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B-3 (B)
 
6,522 uts.
     
08/30/12
     
15,000
     
34,887
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class C (B)
 
1,575 uts.
     
12/20/10
     
16,009
     
55,980
 
 
         
 
     
105,046
     
548,226
 
 
         
 
                 
FMH Holdings Corporation
         
 
                 
A designer and manufacturer of highly engineered components for the aerospace, defense and space industries.
 
Common Stock (B)
 
148 shs.
     
05/01/15
     
148,096
     
333,750
 
 
         
 
                 
 
         
 
                 
GD Dental Services LLC
         
 
                 
A provider of convenient "onestop" general, specialty, and cosmetic dental services with 21 offices located throughout South and Central Florida.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Preferred (B)
 
76 uts.
     
10/05/12
     
75,920
     
94,899
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Common (B)
 
767 uts.
     
10/05/12
     
767
     
 
 
         
 
     
76,687
     
94,899
 
 
         
 
                 
gloProfessional Holdings, Inc.
         
 
                 
A marketer and distributor of premium mineral-based cosmetics, cosmeceuticals and professional hair care products to the professional spa and physician's office channels.
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 03/27/2019
 
$
1,238,413
     
03/27/13
     
1,230,892
     
1,123,488
 
Common Stock (B)
 
1,181 shs.
     
03/27/13
     
118,110
     
61,665
 
 
           
 
     
1,349,002
     
1,185,153
 
 
           
 
                 
Glynlyon Holding Companies, Inc.
           
 
                 
A technology-enabled curriculum provider of K-12 and support services predominantly to small and medium public school districts.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 01/15/2022
 
$
1,604,757
     
01/15/16
     
1,579,980
     
1,636,852
 
Common Stock (B)
 
147 shs.
     
01/15/16
     
147,436
     
260,266
 
 
           
 
     
1,727,416
     
1,897,118
 
 
           
 
                 
GlynnDevins Acquisition Corporation
           
 
                 
A marketing communications agency that services senior living facilities.
                 
Preferred Stock Series A (B)
 
342 shs.
     
06/19/15
     
70,683
     
82,644
 
Common Stock (B)
 
342 shs.
     
06/19/15
     
2,945
     
44,949
 
 
           
 
     
73,628
     
127,593
 
 
           
 
                 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

14
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                         
Grakon Parent
                       
The leading designer and manufacturer of highly-engineered and customized LED and incandescent lighting systems for transportation-based markets.
 
Common Stock (B)
 
175 shs.
   
10/31/14
   
$
174,831
   
$
203,550
 
 
                           
GTI Holding Company
                           
A designer, developer, and marketer of precision specialty hand tools and handheld test instruments.
 
12% Senior Subordinated Note due 02/05/2020
 
$
727,865
   
02/05/14
     
702,700
     
720,988
 
Common Stock (B)
 
846 shs.
   
02/05/14
     
84,636
     
53,256
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2024, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
397 shs.
   
02/05/14
     
36,816
     
24,991
 
 
                 
824,152
     
799,235
 
 
                             
Handi Quilter Holding Company (Premier Needle Arts)
 
A designer and manufacturer of long-arm quilting machines and related components for the consumer quilting market.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 06/19/2021
 
$
1,725,000
     
  *
     
1,700,717
     
1,740,947
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Preferred (B)
 
372 uts.
     
**
   
371,644
     
435,728
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Common Class A (B)
 
3,594 uts.
   
12/19/14
     
     
42,250
 
* 12/19/14 and 02/21/17.
                   
2,072,361
     
2,218,925
 
* *12/19/14 and 04/29/16.
                               
 
                               
Happy Floors Acquisition, Inc.
                               
A wholesale importer and value-added distributor of premium European flooring tile to residential and commercial end markets.
 
12.5% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 07/01/2022
 
$
1,595,292
   
07/01/16
     
1,568,977
     
1,626,654
 
Common Stock (B)
 
150 shs.
   
07/01/16
     
149,500
     
166,535
 
 
                   
1,718,477
     
1,793,189
 
 
                               
Hartland Controls Holding Corporation
                               
A manufacturer and distributor of electronic and electromechanical components.
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 08/14/2020
 
$
1,123,058
   
02/14/14
     
1,112,767
     
1,123,058
 
12% Senior Subordinated Note due 08/14/2020
 
$
431,250
   
06/22/15
     
428,850
     
435,563
 
Common Stock (B)
 
821 shs.
   
02/14/14
     
822
     
355,363
 
 
                   
1,542,439
     
1,913,984
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

15
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                         
HHI Group, LLC
                       
A developer, marketer, and distributor of hobby-grade radio control products.
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 11/26/2020
 
$
1,674,736
   
01/17/14
   
$
1,659,884
   
$
1,674,326
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
102 uts.
   
01/17/14
     
101,563
     
22,663
 
 
                 
1,761,447
     
1,696,989
 
 
                             
Hollandia Produce LLC
                             
A hydroponic greenhouse producer of branded root vegetables.
 
14.25% (2.75% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 12/11/2020
 
$
1,388,935
     
*
     
1,369,788
     
1,250,041
 
* 12/30/15 and 12/23/16.
                               
 
                               
                                 
HOP Entertainment LLC
                               
A provider of post production equipment and services to producers of television shows and motion pictures.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class F (B)(F)
 
47 uts.
   
10/14/11
     
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class G (B)(F)
 
114 uts.
   
10/14/11
     
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class H (B)(F)
 
47 uts.
   
10/14/11
     
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class I (B)(F)
 
47 uts.
   
10/14/11
     
     
 
 
                   
     
 
 
                               
Hospitality Mints Holding Company
                               
A manufacturer of individually-wrapped imprinted promotional mints.
 
12% Senior Subordinated Note due 10/01/2018
 
$
1,098,837
   
08/19/08
     
1,096,447
     
988,953
 
Common Stock (B)
 
251 shs.
   
08/19/08
     
251,163
     
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2018, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
65 shs.
   
08/19/08
     
60,233
     
 
 
                   
1,407,843
     
988,953
 
 
                               
Impact Confections
                               
An independent manufacturer and marketer of confectionery products including Warheads® brand sour candies, Melster® brand classic candies, and co-manufactured/private label classic candies.
 
13% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 11/10/2020
 
$
1,094,920
   
11/10/14
     
1,081,831
     
886,450
 
Common Stock (B)
 
2,300 shs.
   
11/10/14
     
230,000
     
 
 
                   
1,311,831
     
886,450
 
 
                               
Insurance Claims Management, Inc.
                               
A third party administrator providing auto and property claim administration services for insurance companies.
 
Common Stock (B)
 
47 shs.
   
02/27/07
     
1,424
     
132,434
 
 
                               
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 

16
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
     
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                           
Janus Group Holdings LLC
         
 
             
A manufacturer of roll-up doors and hallway systems that are primarily used in self-storage facilities.
       
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A (B)(F)
 
283 uts.
     
12/11/13
   
$
   
$
1,652,071
 
 
         
 
                 
                               
JMH Investors LLC
         
 
                 
A developer and manufacturer of custom formulations for a wide variety of foods.
                 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
1,038,805 uts.
     
12/05/12
     
232,207
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A-1 (B)(F)
 
163,043 uts.
     
10/31/16
     
163,043
     
226,139
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A-2 (B)(F)
 
1,032,609 uts.
     
10/31/16
     
     
78,006
 
 
         
 
     
395,250
     
304,145
 
 
         
 
                 
K P I Holdings, Inc.
         
 
                 
The largest player in the U.S. non-automotive, non-ferrous die casting segment.
                 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class C Preferred (B)
 
40 uts.
     
06/30/15
     
     
82,604
 
Common Stock (B)
 
353 shs.
     
07/15/08
     
285,619
     
381,643
 
 
         
 
     
285,619
     
464,247
 
 
         
 
                 
Kyjen Company
         
 
                 
A designer and distributor of branded and private label dog toys and accessories primarily in the US.
 
13% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 10/14/2021
 
$
1,319,341
     
10/14/15
     
1,299,807
     
1,345,727
 
 
           
 
                 
 
           
 
                 
Manhattan Beachwear Holding Company
           
 
                 
A designer and distributor of women's swimwear.
           
 
                 
12.5% Senior Subordinated Note
due 04/30/2018 (D)
 
$
419,971
     
01/15/10
     
404,121
     
377,974
 
15% (2.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 04/30/2020 (D)
 
$
115,253
     
10/05/10
     
114,604
     
103,727
 
Common Stock (B)
 
35 shs.
     
10/05/10
     
35,400
     
27,317
 
Common Stock Class B (B)
 
118 shs.
     
01/15/10
     
117,647
     
90,788
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2019, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
104 shs.
     
10/05/10
     
94,579
     
80,347
 
 
           
 
     
766,351
     
680,153
 
 
           
 
                 
Master Cutlery LLC
           
 
                 
A designer and marketer of a wide assortment of knives and swords.
 
13% Senior Subordinated Note due 04/17/2020
 
$
865,882
     
04/17/15
     
860,027
     
649,411
 
13% Senior Subordinated Note due 10/29/2018
 
$
100,511
     
09/29/17
     
100,511
     
100,511
 
Limited Liability Company Unit
 
5 uts.
     
04/17/15
     
678,329
     
 
 
           
 
     
1,638,867
     
749,922
 
 
           
 
                 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

17
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                         
MC Sign Holdings LLC
                       
A provider of sign and lighting services nationwide.
                       
11.75% (0.75% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 08/09/2022
 
$
989,300
     
*
   
$
973,837
   
$
991,938
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B (B)
 
101,500 uts.
   
09/22/15
     
101,500
     
158,157
 
* 09/22/15 and 02/09/17.
                   
1,075,337
     
1,150,095
 
 
                               
 
                               
Merex Holding Corporation
                               
A provider of after-market spare parts and components, as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul services for "out of production" or "legacy" aerospace and defense systems that are no longer effectively supported by the original equipment manufacturers.
 
16% Senior Subordinated Note
due 10/30/2019 (D)
 
$
454,295
   
09/22/11
     
449,013
     
449,752
 
15% PIK Senior Subordinated Note
due 04/30/2022 (D)
 
$
23,839
   
08/18/15
     
23,839
     
22,647
 
14% PIK Senior Subordinated Note
due 06/30/2019
 
$
37,859
   
10/21/16
     
37,859
     
37,853
 
Common Stock Class A (B)
 
83,080 shs.
     
*
     
170,705
     
254,013
 
* 08/18/15, 10/20/16 and 01/27/17.
                   
681,416
     
764,265
 
 
                               
 
                               
MES Partners, Inc.
                               
An industrial service business offering an array of cleaning and environmental services to the Gulf Coast region of the U.S.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 09/30/2021
 
$
1,114,956
   
09/30/14
     
1,100,412
     
1,103,129
 
Common Stock Class B (B)
 
219,545 shs.
   
09/30/14
     
219,545
     
86,737
 
 
                   
1,319,957
     
1,189,866
 
 
                               
Midwest Industrial Rubber, Inc.
                               
A supplier of industrial maintenance, repair, and operations ("MRO") products, specializing in the fabrication and distribution of lightweight conveyor belting and related conveyor components and accessories.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 12/02/2022
 
$
1,566,584
   
12/02/16
     
1,538,558
     
1,594,962
 
Preferred Stock
 
1,711 shs.
   
12/02/16
     
171,116
     
150,154
 
Common Stock
 
242 shs.
   
12/02/16
     
242
     
 
 
                   
1,709,916
     
1,745,116
 
 
                               
MNX Holding Company
                               
An international third party logistics company providing customized logistics services to customers across the globe.
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 11/02/2019
 
$
1,329,511
   
11/02/12
     
1,319,721
     
1,329,511
 
Common Stock (B)
 
45 shs.
   
11/02/12
     
44,643
     
48,102
 
 
                   
1,364,364
     
1,377,613
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

18
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                         
Money Mailer Equity LLC
                       
A leading provider of hyperlocal shared direct mail advertising as well as interactive and online advertising solutions through its nationwide production and distribution network.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 10/29/2021
 
$
1,748,238
   
04/29/16
   
$
1,720,751
   
$
1,684,997
 
 
                             
                               
Motion Controls Holdings
                             
A manufacturer of high performance mechanical motion control and linkage products.
 
14.25% (1.75% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 08/15/2020
 
$
282,920
   
11/30/10
     
281,084
     
282,920
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B-1 (B)(F)
 
75,000 uts.
   
11/30/10
     
     
40,971
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B-2 (B)(F)
 
6,801 uts.
   
11/30/10
     
     
3,715
 
 
                 
281,084
     
327,606
 
 
                             
NetShape Technologies, Inc.
                             
A manufacturer of powder metal and metal injection molded precision components used in industrial, consumer, and other applications.
 
12% Senior Subordinated Note due 06/10/2020 (D)
 
$
810,000
   
02/02/07
     
809,408
     
 
Limited Partnership Interest of Saw Mill PCG
Partners LLC (B)
 
1.46% int.
   
02/01/07
     
588,077
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class D of Saw Mill PCG Partners LLC (B)
 
9 uts.
     
*
     
8,873
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class D-1 of Saw Mill PCG Partners LLC (B)
 
121 uts.
   
09/30/09
     
121,160
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class D-2 of Saw Mill PCG Partners LLC (B)
 
68 uts.
   
04/29/11
     
34,547
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class D-3 of Saw Mill PCG Partners LLC (B)
 
104 uts.
   
12/10/14
     
103,904
     
 
* 12/18/08 and 09/30/09.
                   
1,665,969
     
 
 
                               
 
                               
NSi Industries Holdings, Inc.
                               
A manufacturer and distributer of electrical components and accessories to small to mid-sized electrical wholesalers.
 
12.75% (1.75% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 05/17/2023
 
$
1,527,814
   
06/30/16
     
1,502,058
     
1,555,450
 
Common Stock (B)
 
207 shs.
   
05/17/16
     
207,000
     
250,752
 
 
                   
1,709,058
     
1,806,202
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

19
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                         
PANOS Brands LLC
                       
A marketer and distributor of branded consumer foods in the specialty, natural, better-for-you,"free from" healthy and gluten-free categories.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 07/29/2021
 
$
1,449,000
   
01/29/16
   
$
1,426,870
   
$
1,477,980
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 08/17/2022
 
$
326,705
   
02/17/17
     
320,704
     
330,673
 
Common Stock Class B (B)
 
380,545 shs.
     
*
     
380,545
     
488,675
 
* 01/29/16 and 02/17/17.
                   
2,128,119
     
2,297,328
 
 
                               
Petroplex Inv Holdings LLC
                               
A leading provider of acidizing services to E&P customers in the Permian Basin.
                 
Limited Liability Company
 
0.40% int.
     
*
     
175,339
     
9,206
 
* 11/29/12 and 12/20/16.
                               
                                 
 
                               
Polytex Holdings LLC
                               
A manufacturer of water based inks and related products serving primarily the wall covering market.
 
13% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 01/31/2020
 
$
1,069,985
   
07/31/14
     
1,059,341
     
1,016,108
 
Limited Liability Company Unit
 
148,096 uts.
   
07/31/14
     
148,096
     
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class F
 
20,621 uts.
   
09/28/17
     
14,274
     
14,274
 
 
                   
1,221,711
     
1,030,382
 
 
                               
Power Stop Holdings LLC
                               
A supplier of performance upgrade aftermarket brake products.
 
11% Senior Subordinated Note due 05/29/2022
 
$
1,610,100
   
05/29/15
     
1,587,023
     
1,626,201
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Preferred (B)(F)
 
1,149 uts.
   
05/29/15
     
114,900
     
141,285
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Common (B)(F)
 
1,149 uts.
   
05/29/15
     
     
108,716
 
 
                   
1,701,923
     
1,876,202
 
 
                               
PPC Event Services
                               
A special event equipment rental business.
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 05/20/2020
 
$
1,184,484
   
11/20/14
     
1,171,698
     
1,184,484
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)
 
3,450 uts.
   
11/20/14
     
172,500
     
458,907
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Series A-1 (B)
 
339 uts.
   
03/16/16
     
42,419
     
52,160
 
 
                   
1,386,617
     
1,695,551
 
 
                               
Randy's Worldwide Automotive
                               
A designer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts.
 
11.5% Senior Subordinated Note due 05/12/2021
 
$
1,135,898
   
05/12/15
     
1,121,325
     
1,147,257
 
Common Stock (B)
 
118 shs.
   
05/12/15
     
118,476
     
303,372
 
 
                   
1,239,801
     
1,450,629
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 

20
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
Signature Systems Holding Company
 
A seller and installer of a variety of modular surfaces, industrial matting and related products used for ground protection.
 
Common Stock (B)
 
76 shs.
   
03/15/13
   
$
75,509
   
$
67,639
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2023, to purchase
common stock A at $.01 per share (B)
 
31 shs.
   
03/15/13
     
28,316
     
27,634
 
 
               
103,825
     
95,273
 
 
                           
Smart Source Holdings LLC
 
A short-term computer rental company.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)
 
328 uts.
     
*
     
261,262
     
451,090
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2020, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
83 shs.
     
*
     
67,467
     
114,261
 
* 08/31/07 and 03/06/08.
                 
328,729
     
565,351
 
 
                             
 
                             
SMB Machinery Holdings, Inc.
 
A reseller of used, rebuilt and refurbished packaging and processing equipment, primarily serving the bottling and food manufacturing industries.
 
14% (2% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 10/18/2019 (D)
 
$
738,694
   
10/18/13
     
726,147
     
 
Common Stock (B)
 
841 shs.
   
10/18/13
     
84,100
     
 
 
                   
810,247
     
 
 
                               
Software Paradigms International Group, LLC
                               
An outsourced IT services provider focused on the retail industry.
 
12.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 11/23/2021
 
$
1,725,000
   
05/23/16
     
1,696,914
     
1,742,250
 
 
                               
 
                               
SR Smith LLC
                               
A manufacturer of mine and tunneling ventilation products in the United States.
 
11% Senior Subordinated Note due 03/27/2022
 
$
867,652
   
03/27/17
     
857,662
     
867,652
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Series A (B)(F)
 
14 uts.
   
03/27/17
     
846,631
     
942,711
 
 
                   
1,704,293
     
1,810,363
 
 
                               
Strahman Holdings Inc
                               
A manufacturer of industrial valves and wash down equipment for a variety of industries, including chemical, petrochemical, polymer, pharmaceutical, food processing, beverage and mining.
 
Preferred Stock Series A (B)
 
158,967 shs.
   
12/13/13
     
158,967
     
253,630
 
Preferred Stock Series A-2 (B)
 
26,543 shs.
   
09/10/15
     
29,994
     
42,349
 
 
                   
188,961
     
295,979
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

21
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                         
Sunrise Windows Holding Company
                       
A manufacturer and marketer of premium vinyl windows exclusively selling to the residential remodeling and replacement market.
 
16% Senior Subordinated Note due 01/31/2019 (D)
 
$
1,428,470
     
*
   
$
1,358,229
   
$
999,929
 
Common Stock (B)
 
38 shs.
   
12/14/10
     
38,168
     
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2020, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
37 shs.
   
12/14/10
     
37,249
     
 
* 12/14/10, 08/17/12 and 03/31/16.
                   
1,433,646
     
999,929
 
 
                               
 
                               
Sunvair Aerospace Group Inc.
                               
An aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul provider servicing landing gears on narrow body aircraft.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 07/31/2021
 
$
1,224,740
   
07/31/15
     
1,207,975
     
1,169,792
 
Common Stock (B)
 
68 shs.
   
07/31/15
     
78,150
     
55,819
 
 
                   
1,286,125
     
1,225,611
 
 
                               
Team Drive-Away Holdings LLC
                               
An asset-light provider of over the road driveaway services for class 8 trucks and specialized equipment.
         
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)
 
95,800 uts.
   
10/15/15
     
95,800
     
138,048
 
 
                               
 
                               
Torrent Group Holdings, Inc.
                               
A contractor specializing in the sales and installation of engineered drywells for the retention and filtration of stormwater and nuisance water flow.
 
15% (7.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 12/05/2020
 
$
72,303
   
12/05/13
     
223,110
     
72,302
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2023, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
28,079 shs.
   
12/05/13
     
     
17,970
 
 
                   
223,110
     
90,272
 
 
                               
Tranzonic Holdings LLC
                               
A producer of commercial and industrial supplies, such as safety products, janitorial supplies, work apparel, washroom and restroom supplies and sanitary care products.
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Preferred Class A (B)
 
152,696 shs.
     
*
     
166,248
     
814,950
 
* 07/05/13 and 02/13/17.
                               
 
                               
Tristar Global Energy Solutions, Inc.
                               
A hydrocarbon and decontamination services provider serving refineries worldwide.
 
12.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 07/31/2020
 
$
1,156,302
   
01/23/15
     
1,142,950
     
1,049,735
 
 
                               
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 

22
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                         
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
   
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                         
Veritext Corporation
                       
A provider of stenographic staffing and other services used during the legal deposition process.
 
10.75% Second Lien Term Loan due 01/29/2023
 
$
2,012,500
     
*
   
$
1,981,078
   
$
1,982,375
 
* 01/21/16 and 02/23/17.
                               
 
                               
VP Holding Company
                               
A provider of school transportation services for special-needs and homeless children in Massachusetts.
         
Common Stock (B)
 
3,632 shs.
   
03/31/14
     
363,158
     
662,668
 
 
                               
 
                               
Wellborn Forest Holding Company
                               
A manufacturer of semi-custom kitchen and bath cabinetry.
 
8% Senior Subordinated Note due 09/30/2019 (D)
 
$
1,778,423
   
11/30/06
     
895,271
     
1,778,423
 
Common Stock (B)
 
101 shs.
   
11/30/06
     
101,250
     
 
Warrant, exercisable until 2019, to purchase
common stock at $.01 per share (B)
 
51 shs.
   
11/30/06
     
45,790
     
 
 
                   
1,042,311
     
1,778,423
 
 
                               
Westminster Acquisition LLC
                               
A manufacturer of premium, all-natural oyster cracker products sold under the Westminster and Olde Cape Cod brands.
 
12% (1% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 02/03/2021
 
$
378,309
   
08/03/15
     
373,457
     
382,092
 
Limited Liability Company Unit (B)(F)
 
370,241 uts.
   
08/03/15
     
370,241
     
633,786
 
 
                   
743,698
     
1,015,878
 
 
                               
Whitebridge Pet Brands Holdings, LLC
                               
A portfolio of natural treats and foods for dogs and cats.
 
11.5% (0.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 08/18/2021
 
$
1,484,359
   
04/18/17
     
1,464,269
     
1,490,807
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class A (B)(F)
 
123 uts.
   
04/18/17
     
148,096
     
131,193
 
Limited Liability Company Unit Class B (B)(F)
 
123 uts.
   
04/18/17
     
     
37,071
 
 
                   
1,612,365
     
1,659,071
 
 
                               
Wolf-Gordon, Inc.
                               
A designer and specialty distributor of wallcoverings and related building products, including textiles, paint, and writeable surfaces.
 
12.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 07/22/2021
 
$
1,608,409
   
01/22/16
     
1,584,472
     
1,640,578
 
Common Stock (B)
 
157 shs.
   
01/22/16
     
156,818
     
168,720
 
 
                   
1,741,290
     
1,809,298
 
 
                               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

23
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Principal
Amount,
Shares, Units or
Ownership Percentage
     
Acquisition
Date
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
                           
WP Supply Holding Corporation
         
 
             
A distributor of fresh fruits and vegetables to grocery wholesalers and foodservice distributors in the upper Midwest.
 
14.5% (2.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note
due 06/12/2020
 
$
984,918
     
11/03/11
   
$
980,999
   
$
984,918
 
Common Stock (B)
 
1,500 shs.
     
11/03/11
     
150,000
     
106,190
 
 
           
 
     
1,130,999
     
1,091,108
 
 
           
 
                 
York Wall Holding Company
           
 
                 
A designer, manufacturer and marketer of wall covering products for both residential and commercial wall coverings.
 
12.5% (1.5% PIK) Senior Subordinated Note due
03/04/2021 (D)
 
$
1,572,322
     
03/04/15
     
1,549,582
     
1,400,615
 
Common Stock (B)
 
1,835 shs.
     
03/04/15
     
183,500
     
22,227
 
 
           
 
     
1,733,082
     
1,422,842
 
 
           
 
                 
                                 
Total Private Placement Investments (E)
           
  
   
$
95,358,716
   
$
99,182,288
 
 
           
 
                 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

24
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Interest
Rate
 
Maturity
Date
 
Principal
Amount
   
Cost
   
Market
Value
 
                           
Rule 144A Securities - 12.44%:
     
 
                 
Bonds - 12.44%
     
 
                 
Alliance Residential Company
 
7.500
%
05/01/25
 
$
500,000
   
$
521,214
   
$
518,750
 
Altice Financing S.A.
 
7.500
 
05/15/26
   
400,000
     
400,000
     
440,000
 
Amsted Industries
 
5.375
 
09/15/24
   
240,000
     
240,000
     
252,300
 
Avantor Inc.
 
6.000
 
10/01/24
   
406,000
     
406,000
     
416,150
 
Boise Cascade Company
 
5.625
 
09/01/24
   
130,000
     
130,000
     
136,663
 
CITGO Petroleum Corporation
 
6.250
 
08/15/22
   
425,000
     
425,000
     
437,750
 
Constellium N.V.
 
7.875
 
04/01/21
   
373,000
     
373,000
     
395,379
 
CVR Partners, LP.
 
9.250
 
06/15/23
   
500,000
     
489,251
     
532,500
 
Dell Inc.
 
4.420
 
06/15/21
   
600,000
     
622,577
     
629,948
 
Digicel Group Limited
 
6.000
 
04/15/21
   
500,000
     
465,341
     
488,070
 
Endo Finance LLC
 
5.375
 
01/31/23
   
500,000
     
431,235
     
407,500
 
EnPro Industries Inc.
 
5.875
 
09/15/22
   
120,000
     
121,100
     
125,250
 
First Data Corporation
 
5.000
 
01/15/24
   
406,000
     
406,000
     
421,550
 
First Quantum Minerals Ltd.
 
7.500
 
04/01/25
   
500,000
     
485,388
     
511,250
 
Hertz Corporation
 
7.625
 
06/01/22
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
515,625
 
Hilcorp Energy Company
 
5.000
 
12/01/24
   
335,000
     
335,000
     
328,300
 
IAMGOLD Corporation
 
7.000
 
04/15/25
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
528,125
 
J.B. Poindexter Co., Inc.
 
9.000
 
04/01/22
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
522,500
 
Jupiter Resources Inc.
 
8.500
 
10/01/22
   
500,000
     
471,696
     
358,750
 
LBC Tank Terminals Holding Netherlands B.V.
 
6.875
 
05/15/23
   
663,000
     
677,104
     
696,149
 
Mallinckrodt PLC
 
5.750
 
08/01/22
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
488,750
 
MEG Energy Corporation
 
6.375
 
01/30/23
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
436,250
 
Micron Technology, Inc.
 
5.250
 
08/01/23
   
331,000
     
331,000
     
345,233
 
Moog Inc.
 
5.250
 
12/01/22
   
500,000
     
502,914
     
521,250
 
New Gold Inc.
 
6.250
 
11/15/22
   
500,000
     
502,296
     
519,375
 
OPE KAG Finance Sub
 
7.875
 
07/31/23
   
500,000
     
519,003
     
513,750
 
Penske Corporation
 
4.875
 
07/11/22
   
500,000
     
498,756
     
544,484
 
Prime Security Services Borrower
 
9.250
 
05/15/23
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
551,780
 
Sabre GLBL, Inc.
 
5.250
 
11/15/23
   
122,000
     
122,000
     
125,355
 
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
 
5.875
 
03/15/26
   
204,000
     
204,000
     
208,080
 
Sinclair Television Group, Inc.
 
5.125
 
02/15/27
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
485,625
 
Suncoke Energy
 
7.500
 
06/15/25
   
500,000
     
492,509
     
516,250
 
Tallgrass Operations LLC
 
5.500
 
09/15/24
   
304,000
     
304,000
     
312,360
 
Teine Energy Ltd.
 
6.875
 
09/30/22
   
500,000
     
506,250
     
508,750
 
Topaz Marine S.A.
 
9.125
 
07/26/22
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
500,375
 
Unitymedia KabelBW GmbH
 
6.125
 
01/15/25
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
533,125
 
Univision Communications, Inc.
 
5.125
 
05/15/23
   
160,000
     
160,000
     
163,200
 
UPCB Finance IV Limited
 
5.375
 
01/15/25
   
208,000
     
208,000
     
216,320
 
 
 
 
 

25
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Restricted Securities: (A) (Continued)
 
Interest
Rate
 
Maturity
Date
 
Principal
Amount
   
Cost
   
Market
Value
 
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International
 
7.000
%
10/01/20
 
$
250,000
   
$
250,355
   
$
251,563
 
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International
 
7.000
 
03/15/24
   
173,000
     
173,000
     
184,693
 
Virgin Media Secured Finance PLC
 
5.250
 
01/15/26
   
500,000
     
502,428
     
520,625
 
VRX Escrow Corp.
 
6.125
 
04/15/25
   
182,000
     
182,000
     
159,478
 
Welltec A/S
 
8.000
 
02/01/19
   
375,000
     
373,071
     
375,000
 
West Corporation
 
5.375
 
07/15/22
   
500,000
     
493,457
     
505,000
 
Wolverine World Wide, Inc.
 
5.000
 
09/01/26
   
335,000
     
335,000
     
335,101
 
 
     
 
                       
Total Bonds
     
 
           
18,159,945
     
18,484,281
 
 
     
 
                       
Common Stock - 0.00%
     
 
                       
TherOX, Inc. (B)
     
 
   
2
     
     
 
Touchstone Health Partnership (B)
     
 
   
292
     
     
 
 
     
 
                       
Total Common Stock
     
 
           
     
 
 
     
 
                       
                                 
Total Rule 144A Securities
     
 
           
18,159,945
     
18,484,281
 
 
     
 
                       
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

26
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Public Securities - 21.60%: (A)
 
Interest
Rate
 
Maturity
Date
 
Principal
Amount
   
Cost
   
Market
Value
 
                           
Bank Loans - 1.33%
     
 
                 
Aquilex Holdings LLC
 
5.000
%
12/31/20
 
$
157,127
   
$
156,943
   
$
155,555
 
Beacon Roofing Supply Inc.
 
0.000
 
08/24/18
   
500,000
     
     
 
Big River Steel LLC.
 
6.333
 
08/11/23
   
119,367
     
118,190
     
120,561
 
Cunningham Lindsey U.S., Inc.
 
5.083
 
12/10/19
   
124,966
     
118,558
     
121,842
 
Focus Financial Partners, LLC.
 
8.799
 
05/09/25
   
400,000
     
409,000
     
405,000
 
Gulf Finance, LLC
 
6.300
 
08/25/23
   
261,025
     
258,853
     
245,202
 
Murry Energy Corporation
 
7.250
 
04/16/20
   
456,334
     
415,585
     
417,359
 
Seadrill Partners Finco, LLC
 
4.000
 
02/21/21
   
491,071
     
282,541
     
357,868
 
Summit Midstream Holdings, LLC
 
7.020
 
03/06/22
   
146,966
     
145,642
     
148,803
 
 
     
 
                       
Total Bank Loans
     
 
           
1,905,312
     
1,972,190
 
 
     
 
                       
                                 
Bonds - 20.27%
     
 
                       
ADT Security Services Corporation
 
4.125
 
06/15/23
   
500,000
     
446,055
     
508,750
 
Air Lease Corp.
 
3.000
 
09/15/23
   
600,000
     
594,225
     
598,546
 
Alcoa, Inc.
 
6.150
 
08/15/20
   
600,000
     
612,588
     
655,346
 
AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc.
 
6.125
 
05/15/27
   
500,000
     
486,357
     
493,750
 
Anglogold Holdings PLC
 
5.375
 
04/15/20
   
600,000
     
602,053
     
630,540
 
Anixter, Inc.
 
5.125
 
10/01/21
   
165,000
     
165,000
     
177,375
 
Antero Resources Corporation
 
5.375
 
11/01/21
   
395,000
     
395,000
     
405,369
 
A. Schulman Inc.
 
6.875
 
06/01/23
   
500,000
     
505,489
     
518,750
 
Bank of America Corporation
 
4.000
 
04/01/24
   
500,000
     
498,698
     
528,227
 
Beazer Homes USA, Inc.
 
8.750
 
03/15/22
   
160,000
     
160,000
     
176,860
 
Brunswick Corporation
 
7.125
 
08/01/27
   
500,000
     
503,804
     
582,371
 
Bunge Limited Finance Corp.
 
3.250
 
08/15/26
   
600,000
     
601,991
     
578,156
 
Community Health Sysyems Inc.
 
5.125
 
08/01/21
   
480,000
     
472,989
     
474,000
 
Clearwater Paper Corporation
 
4.500
 
02/01/23
   
500,000
     
497,004
     
498,750
 
Commercial Metals Company
 
4.875
 
05/15/23
   
750,000
     
750,980
     
783,750
 
Crown Castle International Corp
 
5.250
 
01/15/23
   
600,000
     
663,654
     
664,202
 
CubeSmart, L.P.
 
4.000
 
11/15/25
   
500,000
     
506,387
     
515,419
 
CVR Refining LLC
 
6.500
 
11/01/22
   
350,000
     
342,242
     
357,000
 
Discovery Communications
 
4.900
 
03/11/26
   
600,000
     
649,878
     
640,558
 
Duke Realty Limited Partnership
 
3.875
 
10/15/22
   
500,000
     
499,734
     
524,156
 
EP Energy Corporation
 
9.375
 
05/01/20
   
406,000
     
227,187
     
337,995
 
Expedia Inc.
 
4.500
 
08/15/24
   
600,000
     
625,081
     
632,982
 
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
 
6.750
 
01/15/22
   
265,000
     
267,605
     
257,050
 
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
 
8.625
 
06/15/20
   
650,000
     
650,431
     
617,500
 
Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC
 
4.375
 
08/06/23
   
600,000
     
642,972
     
633,203
 
General Motors Financial Co. Inc.
 
4.000
 
01/15/25
   
500,000
     
507,943
     
509,933
 
Genesis Energy, L.P.
 
5.625
 
06/15/24
   
500,000
     
469,053
     
485,000
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

27
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Corporate Public Securities - 21.60%: (A)
 
Interest
Rate
 
Maturity
Date
 
Principal
Amount
   
Cost
   
Market
Value
 
GEO Group, Inc. (The)
 
5.875
%
01/15/22
 
$
500,000
   
$
478,252
   
$
518,125
 
HealthSouth Corporation
 
5.125
 
03/15/23
   
421,000
     
413,504
     
435,081
 
Hertz Corporation
 
6.750
 
04/15/19
   
79,000
     
78,680
     
78,803
 
Hospital Corporation of America
 
5.375
 
02/01/25
   
100,000
     
101,452
     
105,375
 
Hospital Corporation of America
 
5.250
 
06/15/26
   
174,000
     
174,000
     
187,485
 
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company
 
4.900
 
10/15/25
   
500,000
     
498,667
     
528,934
 
Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation
 
6.625
 
08/01/26
   
500,000
     
496,766
     
535,000
 
Icahn Enterprises L.P.
 
6.000
 
08/01/20
   
600,000
     
605,698
     
619,170
 
Jabil Circuit, Inc.
 
4.700
 
09/15/22
   
500,000
     
499,993
     
531,875
 
Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings
 
3.600
 
02/01/25
   
500,000
     
499,394
     
509,923
 
Lamar Media Corp.
 
5.375
 
01/15/24
   
160,000
     
160,000
     
168,400
 
Laredo Petroleum, Inc.
 
5.625
 
01/15/22
   
500,000
     
476,802
     
503,750
 
Lazard Group LLC
 
4.250
 
11/14/20
   
500,000
     
499,205
     
528,223
 
LyondellBasell Industries N.V.
 
5.750
 
04/15/24
   
500,000
     
585,099
     
573,056
 
MasTec, Inc.
 
4.875
 
03/15/23
   
500,000
     
493,413
     
511,250
 
Meritor, Inc.
 
6.750
 
06/15/21
   
636,000
     
636,000
     
658,260
 
Micron Technology, Inc.
 
7.500
 
09/15/23
   
203,000
     
203,000
     
225,584
 
MPLX LP
 
4.875
 
12/01/24
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
538,782
 
NRG Energy, Inc.
 
7.250
 
05/15/26
   
500,000
     
502,993
     
536,250
 
Oasis Petroleum Inc.
 
6.875
 
03/15/22
   
500,000
     
476,158
     
508,750
 
Owens Corning
 
4.200
 
12/01/24
   
600,000
     
633,747
     
631,954
 
Park-Ohio Industries Inc.
 
6.625
 
04/15/27
   
169,000
     
169,000
     
182,098
 
PBF Holding Company LLC
 
6.997
 
11/15/23
   
33,000
     
33,000
     
33,949
 
Perry Ellis International, Inc.
 
7.875
 
04/01/19
   
125,000
     
124,635
     
125,000
 
Pitney Bowes Inc.
 
3.375
 
10/01/21
   
500,000
     
499,675
     
492,092
 
Precision Drilling Corporation
 
6.625
 
11/15/20
   
149,477
     
151,498
     
150,038
 
Reinsurance Group of America
 
3.950
 
09/15/26
   
500,000
     
502,949
     
506,360
 
SM Energy Company
 
6.750
 
09/15/26
   
750,000
     
743,995
     
750,000
 
Sprint Corporation
 
7.125
 
06/15/24
   
155,000
     
155,000
     
174,375
 
Steelcase, Inc.
 
6.375
 
02/15/21
   
500,000
     
503,519
     
552,178
 
Suburban Propane Partners, L.P.
 
5.750
 
03/01/25
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
495,000
 
Time Warner Cable, Inc.
 
5.000
 
02/01/20
   
500,000
     
497,116
     
528,620
 
Trinity Acquisition Plc
 
4.400
 
03/15/26
   
500,000
     
515,595
     
530,114
 
Tyson Foods, Inc.
 
4.500
 
06/15/22
   
500,000
     
508,788
     
540,758
 
Western Digital Corporation
 
10.500
 
04/01/24
   
253,000
     
253,000
     
297,275
 
William Lyon Homes
 
7.000
 
08/15/22
   
500,000
     
500,000
     
517,500
 
WPX Energy, Inc.
 
5.250
 
09/15/24
   
425,000
     
425,000
     
426,063
 
Xlit Ltd
 
4.450
 
03/31/25
   
600,000
     
613,027
     
614,400
 
 
     
 
                       
Total Bonds
     
 
           
29,053,020
     
30,135,388
 
 
     
 
                       
                                 
Total Corporate Public Securities
     
 
         
$
30,958,332
   
$
32,107,578
 
 
     
 
                       
 
 
 
 
 
 

28
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Short-Term Security:
 
Interest
Rate/Yield^
 
Maturity
Date
 
Principal
Amount
   
Cost
   
Market
Value
 
                           
Commercial Paper - 3.88%
     
 
                 
Dollar General Corporation
 
1.450
%
10/04/17
 
$
1,000,000
   
$
999,879
   
$
999,879
 
Fortive Corporation
 
1.380
 
10/03/17
   
1,000,000
     
999,923
     
999,923
 
Hyundai Capital America
 
1.310
 
10/06/17
   
1,000,000
     
999,818
     
999,818
 
Hyundai Capital America
 
1.380
 
10/24/17
   
775,000
     
774,317
     
774,317
 
Potash Corporation
 
1.430
 
10/12/17
   
1,000,000
     
999,569
     
999,569
 
Walgreens Boots Alliance
 
1.400
 
10/19/17
   
1,000,000
     
999,300
     
999,300
 
 
     
 
                       
Total Short-Term Security
     
 
         
$
5,772,806
   
$
5,772,806
 
 
     
 
                       
                                 
Total Investments
 
104.65
%
 
         
$
150,249,799
   
$
155,546,953
 
 
     
 
                       
                                 
Other Assets
 
6.83
 
 
                   
10,163,081
 
                                 
Liabilities
 
(11.48
)
 
                   
(17,069,302
)
 
     
 
                       
Total Net Assets
 
100.00
%
 
                 
$
148,640,732
 
 
     
 
                       
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(A)
In each of the convertible note, warrant, and common stock investments, the issuer has agreed to provide certain registration rights.
(B)
Non-income producing security.
(C)
Security valued at fair value using methods determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Board of Trustees.
(D)
Defaulted security; interest not accrued.
(E)
Illiquid security. As of September 30, 2017 the values of these securities amounted to $99,182,288 or 66.73% of net assets.
(F)
Held in CI Subsidiary Trust
PIK—Payment-in-kind
 
 
 
 
 
 

29
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
 
Industry Classification:
 
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 3.92%
     
API Technologies Corp.
 
$
1,841,280
 
BEI Precision Systems & Space Company, Inc.
   
1,661,261
 
FMH Holdings Corporation
   
333,750
 
Merex Holding Corporation
   
764,265
 
Sunvair Aerospace Group Inc.
   
1,225,611
 
 
   
5,826,167
 
 
       
AUTOMOTIVE - 10.36%
       
Aurora Parts & Accessories LLC
   
1,640,024
 
CG Holdings Manufacturing Company
   
2,242,762
 
DPL Holding Corporation
   
1,599,734
 
English Color & Supply LLC
   
1,769,367
 
Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC
   
633,203
 
General Motors Financial Co. Inc.
   
509,933
 
Grakon Parent
   
203,550
 
Hyundai Capital America
   
1,774,135
 
J.B. Poindexter Co., Inc.
   
522,500
 
Meritor, Inc.
   
658,260
 
Moog Inc.
   
521,250
 
Power Stop Holdings LLC
   
1,876,202
 
Randy's Worldwide Automotive
   
1,450,629
 
 
   
15,401,549
 
 
       
BANKING - 0.36%
       
Bank of America Corporation
   
528,227
 
 
       
         
BROKERAGE, ASSET MANAGERS &
EXCHANGES - 0.77%
 
Icahn Enterprises L.P.
   
619,170
 
Lazard Group LLC
   
528,223
 
 
   
1,147,393
 
 
       
BUILDING MATERIALS - 8.80%
       
ARI Holding Corporation
   
2,301,004
 
Beacon Roofing Supply Inc.
   
 
Boise Cascade Company
   
136,663
 
Janus Group Holdings LLC
   
1,652,071
 
Happy Floors Acquisition, Inc.
   
1,793,189
 
NSi Industries Holdings, Inc.
   
1,806,202
 
Owens Corning
   
631,954
 
Signature Systems Holding Company
   
95,273
 
Sunrise Windows Holding Company
   
999,929
 
Torrent Group Holdings, Inc.
   
90,272
 
Wellborn Forest Holding Company
   
1,778,423
 
   
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
Wolf-Gordon, Inc.
 
$
1,809,298
 
 
   
13,094,278
 
 
       
CABLE & SATELLITE - 1.57%
       
Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation
   
535,000
 
Time Warner Cable, Inc.
   
528,620
 
Unitymedia KabelBW GmbH
   
533,125
 
UPCB Finance IV Limited
   
216,320
 
Virgin Media Secured Finance PLC
   
520,625
 
 
   
2,333,690
 
 
       
CHEMICALS - 3.06%
       
A. Schulman Inc.
   
518,750
 
Compass Chemical International LLC
   
192,425
 
CVR Partners, LP.
   
532,500
 
LBC Tank Terminals Holding Netherlands B.V.
   
696,149
 
LyondellBasell Industries N.V.
   
573,056
 
Polytex Holdings LLC
   
1,030,382
 
Potash Corporation
   
999,569
 
 
   
4,542,831
 
 
       
CONSUMER CYCLICAL SERVICES - 3.26%
       
ADT Security Services Corporation
   
508,750
 
CHG Alternative Education Holding Company
   
1,065,008
 
Church Services Holding Company
   
 
GEO Group, Inc. (The)
   
518,125
 
PPC Event Services
   
1,695,551
 
Prime Security Services Borrower
   
551,780
 
West Corporation
   
505,000
 
 
   
4,844,214
 
 
       
CONSUMER PRODUCTS - 10.33%
       
AMS Holding LLC
   
284,979
 
Blue Wave Products, Inc.
   
938,727
 
Elite Sportwear Holding, LLC
   
1,731,588
 
gloProfessional Holdings, Inc.
   
1,185,153
 
GTI Holding Company
   
799,235
 
Handi Quilter Holding Company
   
2,218,925
 
HHI Group, LLC
   
1,696,989
 
Kyjen Company
   
1,345,727
 
Manhattan Beachwear Holding Company
   
680,153
 
MasTec, Inc.
   
511,250
 
 
 
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

30
 
Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
 
Industry Classification: (Continued)
 
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
Master Cutlery LLC
 
$
749,922
 
Perry Ellis International, Inc.
   
125,000
 
Whitebridge Pet Brands Holdings, LLC
   
1,659,071
 
York Wall Holding Company
   
1,422,842
 
 
   
15,349,561
 
 
       
DIVERSIFIED MANUFACTURING - 4.31%
       
ABC Industries, Inc.
   
402,789
 
Advanced Manufacturing Enterprises LLC
   
 
Airxcel Holdings
   
617,324
 
Amsted Industries
   
252,300
 
BP SCI LLC
   
556,646
 
EnPro Industries Inc.
   
125,250
 
F G I Equity LLC
   
548,226
 
Fortive Corporation
   
999,923
 
K P I Holdings, Inc.
   
464,247
 
Motion Controls Holdings
   
327,606
 
NetShape Technologies, Inc.
   
 
SR Smith LLC
   
1,810,363
 
Strahman Holdings Inc
   
295,979
 
 
   
6,400,653
 
 
       
ELECTRIC - 1.58%
 
AM Conservation Holding Corp.
   
1,814,112
 
NRG Energy, Inc.
   
536,250
 
 
   
2,350,362
 
 
       
FINANCE COMPANIES - 0.40%
 
Air Lease Corp.
   
598,546
 
 
       
   
FINANCIAL OTHER - 0.44%
 
Cunningham Lindsey U.S., Inc.
   
121,842
 
Focus Financial Partners, LLC.
   
405,000
 
Insurance Claims Management, Inc.
   
132,434
 
 
   
659,276
 
 
       
FOOD & BEVERAGE - 9.09%
 
1492 Acquisition LLC
   
388,534
 
Bunge Limited Finance Corp.
   
578,156
 
Del Real LLC
   
1,758,485
 
Eagle Family Foods, Inc.
   
1,885,173
 
F F C Holding Corporation
   
525,247
 
Hollandia Produce LLC
   
1,250,041
 
Hospitality Mints Holding Company
   
988,953
 
   
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
Impact Confections
 
$
886,450
 
JMH Investors LLC
   
304,145
 
PANOS Brands LLC
   
2,297,328
 
Tyson Foods, Inc.
   
540,758
 
Westminster Acquisition LLC
   
1,015,878
 
WP Supply Holding Corporation
   
1,091,108
 
 
   
13,510,256
 
 
       
GAMING - 1.27%
 
CTM Holding, Inc.
   
1,884,523
 
 
       
   
HEALTHCARE - 3.49%
 
Avantor Inc.
   
416,150
 
CORA Health Services, Inc.
   
900,593
 
Community Health Sysyems Inc.
   
474,000
 
ECG Consulting Group
   
1,474,532
 
GD Dental Services LLC
   
94,899
 
HealthSouth Corporation
   
435,081
 
Hospital Corporation of America
   
292,860
 
Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings
   
509,923
 
TherOX, Inc.
   
 
Touchstone Health Partnership
   
 
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International
   
436,256
 
VRX Escrow Corp.
   
159,478
 
 
   
5,193,772
 
 
       
HEALTH INSURANCE - 0.34%
 
Reinsurance Group of America
   
506,360
 
 
       
         
HOME CONSTRUCTION - 0.47%
 
Beazer Homes USA, Inc.
   
176,860
 
William Lyon Homes
   
517,500
 
 
   
694,360
 
 
       
INDEPENDENT - 2.32%
 
Antero Resources Corporation
   
405,369
 
EP Energy Corporation
   
337,995
 
Jupiter Resources Inc.
   
358,750
 
Laredo Petroleum, Inc.
   
503,750
 
MEG Energy Corporation
   
436,250
 
Oasis Petroleum Inc.
   
508,750
 
Precision Drilling Corporation
   
150,038
 
SM Energy Company
   
750,000
 
 
   
3,450,902
 
 
       
 
 
 
 
 

 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

31
 
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
 
Industry Classification: (Continued)
 
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
INDUSTRIAL OTHER - 7.73%
     
AFC - Dell Holding Corporation
 
$
1,355,208
 
Aquilex Holdings LLC
   
155,555
 
Brunswick Corporation
   
582,371
 
Clough, Harbour and Associates
   
858,132
 
Connecticut Electric, Inc.
   
1,613,282
 
Hartland Controls Holding Corporation
   
1,913,984
 
MC Sign Holdings LLC
   
1,150,095
 
Midwest Industrial Rubber, Inc.
   
1,745,116
 
Park-Ohio Industries Inc.
   
182,098
 
Smart Source Holdings LLC
   
565,351
 
SMB Machinery Holdings, Inc.
   
 
Steelcase, Inc.
   
552,178
 
Tranzonic Holdings LLC
   
814,950
 
 
   
11,488,320
 
 
       
MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT - 2.67%
       
AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc.
   
493,750.00
 
BlueSpire Holding, Inc.
   
 
Discovery Communications
   
640,558
 
GlynnDevins Acquisition Corporation
   
127,593
 
HOP Entertainment LLC
   
 
Lamar Media Corp.
   
168,400
 
Money Mailer Equity LLC
   
1,684,997
 
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
   
208,080
 
Sinclair Television Group, Inc.
   
485,625
 
Univision Communications, Inc.
   
163,200
 
 
   
3,972,203
 
 
       
METALS & MINING - 3.77%
       
Alcoa, Inc.
   
655,346
 
Alliance Residential Company
   
518,750
 
Anglogold Holdings PLC
   
630,540
 
Big River Steel LLC.
   
120,561
 
Commercial Metals Company
   
783,750
 
Constellium N.V.
   
395,379
 
First Quantum Minerals Ltd.
   
511,250
 
IAMGOLD Corporation
   
528,125
 
Murry Energy Corporation
   
417,359
 
New Gold Inc.
   
519,375
 
Suncoke Energy
   
516,250
 
 
   
5,596,685
 
 
       
   
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
MIDSTREAM - 1.80%
     
CVR Refining LLC
 
$
357,000
 
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
   
874,550
 
Genesis Energy, L.P.
   
485,000
 
Suburban Propane Partners, L.P.
   
495,000
 
Summit Midstream Holdings, LLC
   
148,803
 
Tallgrass Operations LLC
   
312,360
 
 
   
2,672,713
 
 
       
OIL FIELD SERVICES - 1.85%
       
Avantech Testing Services LLC
   
 
Gulf Finance, LLC
   
245,202
 
Hilcorp Energy Company
   
328,300
 
Petroplex Inv Holdings LLC
   
9,206
 
Seadrill Partners Finco, LLC
   
357,868
 
Teine Energy Ltd.
   
508,750
 
Topaz Marine S.A.
   
500,375
 
Welltec A/S
   
375,000
 
WPX Energy, Inc.
   
426,063
 
 
   
2,750,764
 
 
       
OTHER - REITS - 0.70%
       
Duke Realty Limited Partnership
   
524,156
 
CubeSmart, L.P.
   
515,419
 
 
   
1,039,575
 
 
       
PACKAGING - 0.52%
       
ASC Holdings, Inc.
   
769,801
 
 
       
         
PAPER - 1.47%
       
Clearwater Paper Corporation
   
498,750
 
Dunn Paper
   
1,690,500
 
 
   
2,189,250
 
 
       
PHARMACEUTICALS - 2.96%
       
Clarion Brands Holding Corp.
   
2,180,687
 
Endo Finance LLC
   
407,500
 
ERG Holding Company LLC
   
1,317,325
 
Mallinckrodt PLC
   
488,750
 
 
   
4,394,262
 
 
       
PROPERTY & CASUALTY - 0.77%
       
Trinity Acquisition Plc
   
530,114
 
Xlit Ltd
   
614,400
 
 
   
1,144,514
 
 
       
 

 
 
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

32
 
 Barings Participation Investors
CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)
September 30, 2017
(Unaudited)
 
 
Industry Classification: (Continued)
 
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
REFINING - 2.19%
     
CITGO Petroleum Corporation
 
$
437,750
 
MES Partners, Inc.
   
1,189,866
 
MPLX LP
   
538,782
 
PBF Holding Company LLC
   
33,949
 
Tristar Global Energy Solutions, Inc.
   
1,049,735
 
 
   
3,250,082
 
 
       
RETAILERS - 1.57%
       
Dollar General Corporation
   
999,879
 
Walgreens Boots Alliance
   
999,300
 
Wolverine World Wide, Inc.
   
335,101
 
 
   
2,334,280
 
 
       
TECHNOLOGY - 6.75%
       
Anixter, Inc.
   
177,375
 
Dell Inc.
   
629,948
 
Expedia Inc.
   
632,982
 
First Data Corporation
   
421,550
 
Glynlyon Holding Companies, Inc.
   
1,897,118
 
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company
   
528,934
 
Jabil Circuit, Inc.
   
531,875
 
Micron Technology, Inc.
   
570,817
 
Pitney Bowes Inc.
   
492,092
 
Sabre GLBL, Inc.
   
125,355
 
Software Paradigms International Group, LLC
   
1,742,250
 
Veritext Corporation
   
1,982,375
 
Western Digital Corporation
   
297,275
 
 
   
10,029,946
 
 
       
TELECOMMUNICATIONS - 0.29%
       
Altice Financing S.A.
   
440,000
 
 
       
         
TRANSPORTATION SERVICES - 2.58%
       
Hertz Corporation
   
594,428
 
MNX Holding Company
   
1,377,613
 
OPE KAG Finance Sub
   
513,750
 
Penske Corporation
   
544,484
 
Team Drive-Away Holdings LLC
   
138,048
 
VP Holding Company
   
662,668
 
 
   
3,830,991
 
 
       
   
Fair Value/
Market Value
 
WIRELESS - 0.89%
     
Crown Castle International Corp
 
$
664,202
 
Digicel Group Limited
   
488,070
 
Sprint Corporation
   
174,375
 
 
   
1,326,647
 
 
       
Total Investments - 104.65%
(Cost - $150,249,799)
 
$
155,546,953
 
 
       
 
 
 

 
 

 
 


 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

33
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
The Trust categorizes its investments measured at fair value in three levels, based on the inputs and assumptions used to determine fair value. These levels are as follows:
 
Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical securities
 
Level 2 – other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.)
 
Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs (including the Trust's own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments)
 
 
The following table summarizes the levels in the fair value hierarchy into which the Trusts' financial instruments are categorized as of September 30, 2017.
 
The fair values of our investments disaggregated into the three levels of the fair value hierarchy based upon the lowest level of significant input used in the valuation as of September 30, 2017 are as follows:
 
                         
Assets:
 
Total
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
Restricted Securities
                       
Corporate Bonds
 
$
88,718,864
   
$
   
$
18,484,281
   
$
70,234,583
 
Bank Loans
   
5,558,048
     
     
     
5,558,048
 
Common Stock - U.S.
   
7,005,529
     
     
     
7,005,529
 
Preferred Stock
   
2,454,870
     
     
     
2,454,870
 
Partnerships and LLCs
   
13,929,258
     
     
     
13,929,258
 
Public Securities
                               
Bank Loans
   
1,972,190
     
     
1,020,428
     
951,762
 
Corporate Bonds
   
30,135,388
     
     
30,135,388
     
 
Short-term Securities
   
5,772,806
     
     
5,772,806
     
 
Total
 
$
155,546,953
   
$
   
$
55,412,903
   
$
100,134,050
 
 
 
Following is a reconciliation of Level 3 assets for which significant unobservable inputs were used to determine fair value:
 
                                                 
Assets:
 
Beginning
Balance at
12/31/2016
   
Included in
earnings
   
Purchases
   
Sales
   
Prepayments
   
Transfers
into
Level 3
   
Transfers
out of
Level 3
   
Ending
balance at
9/30/2017
 
Restricted Securities
                                               
Corporate Bonds
 
$
69,600,395
   
$
2,201,330
   
$
6,211,888
   
$
(2,774,290
)
 
$
(5,004,740
)
 
$
   
$
   
$
70,234,583
 
Bank Loans
   
5,132,890
     
(32,222
)
   
457,380
     
     
     
     
     
5,558,048
 
Common Stock - U.S.
   
5,972,591
     
2,820,040
     
104,545
     
(1,891,647
)
   
     
     
     
7,005,529
 
Preferred Stock
   
3,878,030
     
591,239
     
     
(2,014,399
)
   
     
     
     
2,454,870
 
Partnerships and LLCs
   
10,187,680
     
2,832,523
     
1,903,464
     
(994,409
)
   
     
     
     
13,929,258
 
Public Securities
                                                               
Bank Loans
   
     
4,202
     
645,896
     
     
(132,923
)
   
434,587
     
     
951,762
 
   
$
94,771,586
   
$
8,417,112
   
$
9,323,173
   
$
(7,674,745
)
 
$
(5,137,663
)
 
$
434,587
   
$
   
$
100,134,050
 
 
 

ITEM 2. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

(a) The principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the Registrant evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this report and based on that evaluation have concluded that such disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that material information required to be disclosed by the Registrant on Form N-Q is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms.

(b) There have been changes in the Registrant's internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Act)("internal controls") that occurred during the Registrant's last fiscal quarter.  The Registrant's investment adviser, Barings LLC, who maintains the Registrant's internal controls, revised its internal controls to oversee State Street Bank & Trust who now provides certain administrative and accounting services to the Registrant.

 
 
ITEM 3. EXHIBITS.

Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30a-2(a)) are attached hereto as an exhibit.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

SIGNATURES

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

(Registrant)  Barings Participation Investors
             


By (Signature and Title)*
/s/ Robert M. Shettle                                                    
Robert M. Shettle, President


Date    November 29, 2017                                  
 

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

By (Signature and Title)*
/s/ Robert M. Shettle                                                     
Robert M. Shettle, President

 
Date    November 29, 2017                                  

 

 
By (Signature and Title)*
/s/ James M. Roy                                                           
James M. Roy, Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer

 
Date    November 29, 2017                                  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
* PRINT THE NAME AND TITLE OF EACH SIGNING OFFICER UNDER HIS OR HER SIGNATURE.