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: 811-05739
Name of Fund: BlackRock MuniEnhanced Fund, Inc. (MEN)
Fund Address: 100 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19809
Name and address of agent for service: John M. Perlowski, Chief Executive Officer, BlackRock MuniEnhanced
Fund, Inc., 55 East 52nd Street, New York, NY 10055
Registrants telephone number, including area code: (800) 882-0052, Option 4
Date of fiscal year end: 04/30/2016
Date of reporting period: 10/31/2015
Item 1 Report to Stockholders
OCTOBER 31, 2015
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT (UNAUDITED)
|
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA)
BlackRock MuniEnhanced Fund, Inc. (MEN)
BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund, Inc. (MHD)
BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund II, Inc. (MUH)
BlackRock MuniHoldings Quality Fund, Inc. (MUS)
BlackRock Muni Intermediate Duration Fund, Inc. (MUI)
BlackRock MuniVest Fund II, Inc. (MVT)
Not FDIC Insured May Lose Value No Bank Guarantee |
Table of Contents |
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3 | ||||
4 | ||||
5 | ||||
5 | ||||
6 | ||||
Financial Statements: | ||||
20 | ||||
67 | ||||
69 | ||||
71 | ||||
75 | ||||
77 | ||||
84 | ||||
95 | ||||
99 | ||||
100 |
2 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
The Markets in Review |
Dear Shareholder,
Diverging monetary policies and shifting economic outlooks across regions were the overarching themes driving financial markets during the 12-month period ended October 31, 2015. U.S. economic growth was picking up considerably toward the end of 2014, while the broader global economy showed signs of slowing. Investors favored the stability of U.S. assets despite expectations that the Federal Reserve (the Fed) would eventually be inclined to raise short-term interest rates, while international markets struggled even as the European Central Bank and the Bank of Japan eased monetary policy. Oil prices plummeted in late 2014 due to a global supply-and-demand imbalance, fueling a sell-off in energy-related assets and emerging markets. U.S. Treasury bonds benefited as their persistently low yields had become attractive as compared to the even lower yields on international sovereign debt.
Equity markets reversed in early 2015, with international markets outperforming the United States as global risks temporarily abated, and the U.S. economy hit a soft patch amid a harsh winter and a west coast port strike. High valuations took their toll on U.S. stocks, while bond yields fell to extreme lows. (Bond prices rise as yields fall.) In contrast, economic reports in Europe and Asia began to improve, and accommodative policies from central banks in those regions helped international equities rebound. Oil prices stabilized, providing some relief for emerging market stocks, although a stronger U.S. dollar posed another significant headwind for the asset class.
U.S. economic growth regained momentum in the second quarter, helping U.S. stocks resume an upward path; however, the improving data underscored the likelihood that the Fed would raise short-term rates before the end of 2015 and bond yields moved swiftly higher. The month of June brought a sharp, but temporary, sell-off across most asset classes as Greeces long-brewing debt troubles came to an impasse. These concerns abated when the Greek parliament passed a series of austerity and reform measures in July. But the markets calm was short-lived. Signs of weakness in Chinas economy sparked extreme levels of volatility in Chinese equities despite policymakers attempts to stabilize the market.
Higher volatility spread through markets globally in the third quarter as further evidence of deceleration in China stoked worries about overall global growth. Weakening Chinese demand caused oil prices to slide once again and ignited another steep sell-off in emerging markets. Speculation as to whether the Fed would raise rates at its September meeting further fueled global volatility. Ultimately, the Fed postponed the rate hike, but this brought little relief in the markets as the central banks decision reinforced investors concerns about the state of the global economy. Stock markets finished the third quarter with the worst performance since 2011. High yield bonds also declined, while higher quality assets, including U.S. Treasury bonds, municipal bonds and investment grade credit benefited from investors seeking shelter amid global uncertainty.
The period ended with a strong October rally in risk assets. Given the recent scarcity of evidence of global growth, equity markets had become more reliant on central banks to drive performance. Although October brought generally soft economic data and lower growth estimates, global equities powered higher as Chinas central bank provided more stimulus, the European Central Bank poised for more easing and soft U.S. data pushed back expectations for a Fed rate hike. Treasury bonds declined in October while all other asset classes benefited from investors increased risk appetite.
At BlackRock, we believe investors need to think globally, extend their scope across a broad array of asset classes and be prepared to move freely as market conditions change over time. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit blackrock.com for further insight about investing in todays markets.
Sincerely,
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC
Total Returns as of October 31, 2015 | ||||||||
6-month | 12-month | |||||||
U.S. large cap equities |
0.77 | % | 5.20 | % | ||||
U.S. small cap equities |
(4.12 | ) | 0.34 | |||||
International equities |
(6.44 | ) | (0.07 | ) | ||||
Emerging market equities |
(17.75 | ) | (14.53 | ) | ||||
3-month Treasury bills |
0.01 | 0.02 | ||||||
U.S. Treasury securities |
(0.02 | ) | 3.57 | |||||
U.S. investment-grade bonds (Barclays U.S. |
(0.10 | ) | 1.96 | |||||
Tax-exempt municipal |
1.58 | 2.87 | ||||||
U.S. high yield bonds |
(3.38 | ) | (1.91 | ) | ||||
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index. |
THIS PAGE NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT | 3 |
Municipal Market Overview |
For the Reporting Period Ended October 31, 2015 |
Municipal Market Conditions
Municipal bonds generated positive performance for the period, due to a favorable supply-and-demand environment and declining interest rates. (Bond prices rise as rates fall.) Interest rates moved lower as 2014 came to a close, even as the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) curtailed its open-market bond purchases. This, coupled with reassurance from the Fed that short-term rates would remain low for a considerable amount of time, resulted in strong demand for fixed income investments in 2014, with municipal bonds being one of the stronger-performing sectors for the year. This trend continued into the beginning of 2015 until rate volatility ultimately increased in February as a result of uneven U.S. economic data and widening central bank divergence, i.e., rate cuts outside the United States while the Fed poised for normalizing U.S. rates. During the 12 months ended October 31, 2015, municipal bond funds garnered net inflows of approximately $16 billion (based on data from the Investment Company Institute).
For the same 12-month period, total new issuance remained relatively strong from a historical perspective at $415 billion (considerably higher than the $319 billion issued in the prior 12-month period).
A noteworthy portion of new supply during this period was attributable to refinancing activity (roughly 60%) as issuers took advantage of low interest rates and a flatter yield curve to reduce their borrowing costs.
S&P Municipal Bond Index |
Total Returns as of October 31, 2015 |
6 months: 1.58% |
12 months: 2.87% |
A Closer Look at Yields
From October 31, 2014 to October 31, 2015, yields on AAA-rated 30-year municipal bonds rose by 6 basis points (bps) from 3.01% to 3.07%, while 10-year rates fell by 3 bps from 2.07% to 2.04% and 5-year rates increased 5 bps from 1.12% to 1.17% (as measured by Thomson Municipal Market Data). Overall, the municipal yield curve remained relatively steep over the 12-month period even as the spread between 2- and 30-year maturities flattened by 12 bps and the spread between 2- and 10-year maturities flattened by 21 bps.
During the same time period, U.S. Treasury rates fell by 12 bps on 30-year bonds, 18 bps on 10-year bonds and
9 bps on 5-year bonds. Accordingly, tax-exempt municipal bonds underperformed Treasuries, most notably in the intermediate part of the curve as a result of increased supply and tempered demand. In absolute terms, the positive performance of muni
bonds was driven largely by a supply/demand imbalance within the municipal market as investors sought income and incremental yield in an environment where opportunities had become scarce. More broadly, municipal bonds benefited from the greater
appeal of tax-exempt investing in light of the higher tax rates implemented in 2014. The asset class is known for its lower relative volatility and preservation of principal with an emphasis on income as tax rates rise.
Financial Conditions of Municipal Issuers
The majority of municipal credits remain strong, despite well-publicized distress among a few issuers. Four of the five largest states in terms of debt outstanding California, New York, Texas and Florida have exhibited markedly improved credit fundamentals during the slow national recovery. However, several states with the largest unfunded pension liabilities have seen their bond prices decline noticeably and remain vulnerable to additional price deterioration. On the local level, Chicagos credit quality downgrade is an outlier relative to other cities due to its larger pension liability and inadequate funding remedies. BlackRock maintains the view that municipal bond defaults will remain minimal and in the periphery while the overall market is fundamentally sound. We continue to advocate careful credit research and believe that a thoughtful approach to structure and security selection remain imperative amid uncertainty in a modestly improving economic environment.
The opinions expressed are those of BlackRock as of October 31, 2015, and are subject to change at any time due to changes in market or economic conditions. The comments should not be construed as a recommendation of any individual holdings or market sectors. Investing involves risk including loss of principal. Bond values fluctuate in price so the value of your investment can go down depending on market conditions. Fixed income risks include interest-rate and credit risk. Typically, when interest rates rise, there is a corresponding decline in bond values. Credit risk refers to the possibility that the bond issuer will not be able to make principal and interest payments. There may be less information on the financial condition of municipal issuers than for public corporations. The market for municipal bonds may be less liquid than for taxable bonds. Some investors may be subject to Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT). Capital gains distributions, if any, are taxable.
The Standard & Poors Municipal Bond Index, a broad, market value-weighted index, seeks to measure the performance of the U.S. municipal bond market. All bonds in the index are exempt from U.S. federal income taxes or subject to the AMT. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.
4 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging |
Derivative Financial Instruments |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 5 |
Fund Summary as of October 31, 2015 | BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. |
Fund Overview |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc.s (MUA) (the Fund) investment objective is to provide high current income exempt from federal income taxes by investing primarily in a portfolio of medium- to lower-grade or unrated municipal obligations, the interest on which, in the opinion of bond counsel to the issuer, is exempt from federal income taxes. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its assets in municipal bonds exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax). The Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in municipal bonds that are rated in the medium to lower categories by nationally recognized rating services (for example, Baa or lower by Moodys Investors Service, Inc. (Moodys) or BBB or lower by Standard & Poors Corporation (S&P)) or non-rated securities which are of comparable quality. The Fund may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.
No assurance can be given that the Funds investment objective will be achieved.
Fund Information |
Symbol on New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) |
MUA | |
Initial Offering Date |
June 25, 1993 | |
Yield on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2015 ($13.65)1 |
5.27% | |
Tax Equivalent Yield2 |
9.31% | |
Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.06 | |
Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.72 | |
Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20154 |
12% |
1 | Yield on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. Past performance does not guarantee future results. |
2 | Tax equivalent yield assumes the maximum marginal federal tax rate of 43.4%, which includes the 3.8% Medicare tax. Actual tax rates will vary based on income, exemptions and deductions. Lower taxes will result in lower tax equivalent yields. |
3 | The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. |
4 | Represents TOB Trusts as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Fund, including any assets attributable to TOB Trusts, minus the sum of accrued liabilities. For a discussion of leveraging techniques used by the Fund, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 5. |
Performance |
Returns for the six months ended October 31, 2015 were as follows:
Returns Based On | ||||||||
Market Price | NAV3 | |||||||
MUA1 |
(1.36 | )% | 2.25 | % | ||||
Lipper Closed-End High Yield Municipal Debt Funds2 |
(0.64 | )% | 2.29 | % |
1 | All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. |
2 | Average return. |
3 | The Fund moved from a premium to NAV to a discount during the period, which accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. |
The following discussion relates to the Funds absolute performance based on NAV:
| Municipal bonds produced a modest gain during the six-month reporting period. U.S. Treasury yields rose (as prices fell), with the bulk of the increase occurring from the beginning of April through the first week of June. While yields subsequently declined amid signs of slowing global growth, the rally was not sufficient to make up for the earlier weakness. Municipal issues outperformed Treasuries due in part to an increasingly favorable balance of supply and demand in the market, as the heavy new issuance that characterized the first half of 2015 began to abate at mid-year. In addition, overall state and local government finances continued to benefit from improving revenues despite the pension-funding issues in specific areas such as Illinois and New Jersey. |
| Income in the form of coupon payments made up a meaningful portion of the Funds total return for the period. Fund holdings in non-investment grade and unrated securities contributed to performance both in terms of price appreciation and incremental income. BBB-rated bonds, which represented the Funds largest concentration among the various credit tiers, also contributed significantly as persistent demand from yield-seeking investors caused yield spreads to tighten. Sector concentrations in tobacco, healthcare and other industries such as infrastructure and residential/commercial development projects were top performers. The Funds yield curve positioning also proved beneficial given its investments along the intermediate maturity spectrum, where yields fell modestly even as longer-term rates slightly increased. In addition, the Funds use of leverage provided both incremental return and income in a relatively stable rate environment. |
| The largest detractors from Fund performance were primarily a handful of specific holdings that experienced price declines due to weakening financial conditions and, in one case, concern that the bond would be subject to extraordinary redemption at par. |
The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.
6 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. |
Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary |
10/31/15 | 4/30/15 | Change | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||
Market Price |
$ | 13.65 | $ | 14.22 | (4.01 | )% | $ | 14.22 | $ | 13.35 | ||||||||||
Net Asset Value |
$ | 14.05 | $ | 14.12 | (0.50 | )% | $ | 14.12 | $ | 13.84 |
Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years |
Overview of the Funds Total Investments* |
Call/Maturity Schedule3 | ||||
Calendar Year Ended December 31, |
||||
2015 |
8 | % | ||
2016 |
2 | |||
2017 |
5 | |||
2018 |
8 | |||
2019 |
6 |
3 | Scheduled maturity dates and/or bonds that are subject to potential calls by issuers over the next five years. |
* | Excludes short-term securities. |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 7 |
Fund Summary as of October 31, 2015 | BlackRock MuniEnhanced Fund, Inc. |
Fund Overview |
BlackRock MuniEnhanced Fund, Inc.s (MEN) (the Fund) investment objective is to provide shareholders with as high a level of current income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with its investment policies and prudent investment management. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its assets in municipal bonds exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax). Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests primarily in long-term municipal bonds rated investment grade quality at the time of investment and invests primarily in long-term municipal bonds with maturities of more than ten years at the time of investment. The Fund may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.
No assurance can be given that the Funds investment objective will be achieved.
Fund Information |
Symbol on NYSE |
MEN | |
Initial Offering Date |
March 2, 1989 | |
Yield on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2015 ($11.82)1 |
6.14% | |
Tax Equivalent Yield2 |
10.85% | |
Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.0605 | |
Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.7260 | |
Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20154 |
37% |
1 | Yield on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. Past performance does not guarantee future results. |
2 | Tax equivalent yield assumes the maximum marginal federal tax rate of 43.4%, which includes the 3.8% Medicare tax. Actual tax rates will vary based on income, exemptions and deductions. Lower taxes will result in lower tax equivalent yields. |
3 | The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. |
4 | Represents VRDP Shares and TOB Trusts as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Fund, including any assets attributable to VRDP Shares and TOB Trusts, minus the sum of accrued liabilities. For a discussion of leveraging techniques used by the Fund, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 5. |
Performance |
Returns for the six months ended October 31, 2015 were as follows:
Returns Based On | ||||||||
Market Price | NAV3 | |||||||
MEN1 |
4.56 | % | 2.22 | % | ||||
Lipper General & Insured Municipal Debt Funds (Leveraged)2 |
1.77 | % | 2.20 | % |
1 | All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. |
2 | Average return. |
3 | The Funds discount to NAV, which narrowed during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. |
The following discussion relates to the Funds absolute performance based on NAV:
| Municipal bonds produced a modest gain during the six-month reporting period. U.S. Treasury yields rose (as prices fell), with the bulk of the increase occurring from the beginning of April through the first week of June. While yields subsequently declined amid signs of slowing global growth, the rally was not sufficient to make up for the earlier weakness. Municipal issues outperformed Treasuries due in part to an increasingly favorable balance of supply and demand in the market, as the heavy new issuance that characterized the first half of 2015 began to abate at mid-year. In addition, overall state and local government finances continued to benefit from improving revenues. |
| Income in the form of coupon payments made up a meaningful portion of the Funds total return for the period. The Funds duration exposure, or interest rate sensitivity, contributed positively to performance. The Funds exposure to five-year segment of the yield curve, which outperformed, aided results as well. The Fund also benefited from its positions in the transportation and school district sectors. |
| The Funds absolute performance was negatively impacted by its positions in New Jersey state-appropriated issues, as well as in certain securities in Illinois. The yield spreads on these securities rose significantly due to concerns about pension funding and the resulting downgrades to the issuers credit ratings. |
The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.
8 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
BlackRock MuniEnhanced Fund, Inc. |
Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary |
10/31/15 | 4/30/15 | Change | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||
Market Price |
$ | 11.82 | $ | 11.67 | 1.29 | % | $ | 11.82 | $ | 10.87 | ||||||||||
Net Asset Value |
$ | 12.15 | $ | 12.27 | (0.98 | )% | $ | 12.27 | $ | 11.92 |
Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years |
Overview of the Funds Total Investments* |
Call/Maturity Schedule3 | ||||
Calendar Year Ended December 31, |
||||
2015 |
6 | % | ||
2016 |
3 | |||
2017 |
10 | |||
2018 |
11 | |||
2019 |
15 |
3 | Scheduled maturity dates and/or bonds that are subject to potential calls by issuers over the next five years. |
* | Excludes short-term securities. |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 9 |
Fund Summary as of October 31, 2015 | BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund, Inc. |
Fund Overview |
BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund, Inc.s (MHD) (the Fund) investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income exempt from federal income taxes. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its assets in municipal bonds exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax). The Fund invests, under normal market conditions, at least 75% of its assets in municipal bonds rated investment grade and invests primarily in long-term municipal bonds with a maturity of more than ten years at the time of investment. The Fund may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.
No assurance can be given that the Funds investment objective will be achieved.
Fund Information |
Symbol on NYSE |
MHD | |
Initial Offering Date |
May 2, 1997 | |
Yield on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2015 ($16.97)1 |
6.08% | |
Tax Equivalent Yield2 |
10.74% | |
Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.086 | |
Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share3 |
$1.032 | |
Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20154 |
37% |
1 | Yield on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. Past performance does not guarantee future results. |
2 | Tax equivalent yield assumes the maximum marginal federal tax rate of 43.4%, which includes the 3.8% Medicare tax. Actual tax rates will vary based on income, exemptions and deductions. Lower taxes will result in lower tax equivalent yields. |
3 | The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. |
4 | Represents VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Fund, including any assets attributable to VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts, minus the sum of accrued liabilities. For a discussion of leveraging techniques used by the Fund, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 5. |
Performance |
Returns for the six months ended October 31, 2015 were as follows:
Returns Based On | ||||||||
Market Price | NAV3 | |||||||
MHD1 |
1.57 | % | 2.30 | %4 | ||||
Lipper General & Insured Municipal Debt Funds (Leveraged)2 |
1.77 | % | 2.20 | % |
1 | All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. |
2 | Average return. |
3 | The Funds discount to NAV, which widened during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. |
4 | For financial reporting purposes, the market value of certain investments were adjusted as of report date. Accordingly, the net asset value (NAV) per share and total return performance based on net asset value presented herein are different than the information previously published on October 31, 2015. |
The following discussion relates to the Funds absolute performance based on NAV:
| Municipal bonds produced a modest gain during the six-month reporting period. U.S. Treasury yields rose (as prices fell), with the bulk of the increase occurring from the beginning of April through the first week of June. While yields subsequently declined amid signs of slowing global growth, the rally was not sufficient to make up for the earlier weakness. Municipal issues outperformed Treasuries due in part to an increasingly favorable balance of supply and demand in the market, as the heavy new issuance that characterized the first half of 2015 began to abate at mid-year. In addition, overall state and local government finances continued to benefit from improving revenues. |
| Income in the form of coupon payments made up a meaningful portion of the Funds total return for the period. In addition, the Funds use of leverage provided both incremental return and income in a relatively stable rate environment. |
| The Funds positions in AA rated bonds, as well as in those on the lower end of the investment grade spectrum, were key drivers of its six-month results. The Fund benefited from the additional yield these securities generated, as well as the ongoing decline in yield spreads in these market segments. The Funds positions in the transportation, healthcare, utilities and tobacco sectors also aided performance. |
| The Funds overall yield curve positioning was a modest detractor from performance, due largely to its investments in longer-maturity bonds issued by Illinois and New Jersey. Ongoing concerns regarding the states budget and pension-funding challenges undermined valuations for both state and local general obligation debt. |
The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.
10 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund, Inc. |
Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary |
10/31/15 | 4/30/15 | Change | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||
Market Price |
$ | 16.97 | $ | 17.25 | (1.62 | )% | $ | 17.30 | $ | 15.75 | ||||||||||
Net Asset Value |
$ | 17.43 | $ | 17.59 | (0.91 | )% | $ | 17.59 | $ | 17.08 |
Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years |
Overview of the Funds Total Investments* |
Call/Maturity Schedule4 | ||||
Calendar Year Ended December 31, |
||||
2015 |
4 | % | ||
2016 |
3 | |||
2017 |
5 | |||
2018 |
6 | |||
2019 |
26 |
4 | Scheduled maturity dates and/or bonds that are subject to potential calls by issuers over the next five years. |
* | Excludes short-term securities. |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 11 |
Fund Summary as of October 31, 2015 | BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund II, Inc. |
Fund Overview |
BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund II, Inc.s (MUH) (the Fund) investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income exempt from federal income taxes. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its assets in municipal bonds exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax). The Fund invests, under normal market conditions, at least 75% of its assets in municipal bonds rated investment grade and invests primarily in long-term municipal bonds with a maturity of more than ten years at the time of investment. The Fund may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.
No assurance can be given that the Funds investment objective will be achieved.
Fund Information |
Symbol on NYSE |
MUH | |
Initial Offering Date |
February 27, 1998 | |
Yield on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2015 ($15.04)1 |
6.18% | |
Tax Equivalent Yield2 |
10.92% | |
Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.0775 | |
Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.9300 | |
Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20154 |
35% |
1 | Yield on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. Past performance does not guarantee future results. |
2 | Tax equivalent yield assumes the maximum marginal federal tax rate of 43.4%, which includes the 3.8% Medicare tax. Actual tax rates will vary based on income, exemptions and deductions. Lower taxes will result in lower tax equivalent yields. |
3 | The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. |
4 | Represents VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Fund, including any assets attributable to VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts, minus the sum of accrued liabilities. For a discussion of leveraging techniques used by the Fund, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 5. |
Performance |
Returns for the six months ended October 31, 2015 were as follows:
Returns Based On | ||||||||
Market Price | NAV3 | |||||||
MUH1 |
1.57 | % | 2.24 | %4 | ||||
Lipper General & Insured Municipal Debt Funds (Leveraged)2 |
1.77 | % | 2.20 | % |
1 | All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. |
2 | Average return. |
3 | The Funds discount to NAV, which widened during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. |
4 | For financial reporting purposes, the market value of certain investments were adjusted as of report date. Accordingly, the net asset value (NAV) per share and total return performance based on net asset value presented herein are different than the information previously published on October 31, 2015. |
The following discussion relates to the Funds absolute performance based on NAV:
| Municipal bonds produced a modest gain during the six-month reporting period. U.S. Treasury yields rose (as prices fell), with the bulk of the increase occurring from the beginning of April through the first week of June. While yields subsequently declined amid signs of slowing global growth, the rally was not sufficient to make up for the earlier weakness. Municipal issues outperformed Treasuries due in part to an increasingly favorable balance of supply and demand in the market, as the heavy new issuance that characterized the first half of 2015 began to abate at mid-year. In addition, overall state and local government finances continued to benefit from improving revenues. |
| Income in the form of coupon payments made up a meaningful portion of the Funds total return for the period. In addition, the Funds use of leverage provided both incremental return and income in a relatively stable rate environment. |
| The Funds positions in AA rated bonds, as well as in those on the lower end of the investment grade spectrum, were key drivers of its six-month results. The Fund benefited from the additional yield these securities generated, as well as the ongoing decline in yield spreads in these market segments. The Funds positions in the transportation, healthcare, tobacco and utilities sectors also aided performance. |
| The Funds overall yield curve positioning was a modest detractor from performance, due largely to its investments in longer-maturity bonds issued by Illinois and New Jersey. Ongoing concerns regarding the states budget and pension-funding challenges undermined valuations for both state and local general obligation debt. |
The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.
12 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund II, Inc. |
Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary |
10/31/15 | 4/30/15 | Change | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||
Market Price |
$ | 15.04 | $ | 15.28 | (1.57 | )% | $ | 15.34 | $ | 14.10 | ||||||||||
Net Asset Value |
$ | 16.06 | $ | 16.21 | (0.93 | )% | $ | 16.21 | $ | 15.76 |
Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years |
Overview of the Funds Total Investments* |
Call/Maturity Schedule3 | ||||
Calendar Year Ended December 31, |
||||
2015 |
5 | % | ||
2016 |
3 | |||
2017 |
6 | |||
2018 |
6 | |||
2019 |
28 |
3 | Scheduled maturity dates and/or bonds that are subject to potential calls by issuers over the next five years. |
* | Excludes short-term securities. |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 13 |
Fund Summary as of October 31, 2015 | BlackRock MuniHoldings Quality Fund, Inc. |
Fund Overview |
BlackRock MuniHoldings Quality Fund, Inc.s (MUS) (the Fund) investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income exempt from federal income taxes. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing primarily in long-term, investment grade municipal obligations exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax). Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its assets in investment grade municipal obligations with remaining maturities of one year or more at the time of investment. The Fund may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.
No assurance can be given that the Funds investment objective will be achieved.
Fund Information |
Symbol on NYSE |
MUS | |
Initial Offering Date |
May 1, 1998 | |
Yield on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2015 ($13.21)1 |
6.13% | |
Tax Equivalent Yield2 |
10.83% | |
Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.0675 | |
Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.8100 | |
Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20154 |
37% |
1 | Yield on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. Past performance does not guarantee future results. |
2 | Tax equivalent yield assumes the maximum marginal federal tax rate of 43.4%, which includes the 3.8% Medicare tax. Actual tax rates will vary based on income, exemptions and deductions. Lower taxes will result in lower tax equivalent yields. |
3 | The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. |
4 | Represents VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Fund, including any assets attributable to VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts, minus the sum of accrued liabilities. For a discussion of leveraging techniques used by the Fund, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 5. |
Performance |
Returns for the six months ended October 31, 2015 were as follows:
Returns Based On | ||||||||
Market Price | NAV3 | |||||||
MUS1 |
2.30 | % | 2.02 | % | ||||
Lipper General & Insured Municipal Debt Funds (Leveraged)2 |
1.77 | % | 2.20 | % |
1 | All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. |
2 | Average return. |
3 | The Funds discount to NAV, which narrowed during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. |
The following discussion relates to the Funds absolute performance based on NAV:
| Municipal bonds produced a modest gain during the six-month reporting period. U.S. Treasury yields rose (as prices fell), with the bulk of the increase occurring from the beginning of April through the first week of June. While yields subsequently declined amid signs of slowing global growth, the rally was not sufficient to make up for the earlier weakness. Municipal issues outperformed Treasuries due in part to an increasingly favorable balance of supply and demand in the market, as the heavy new issuance that characterized the first half of 2015 began to abate at mid-year. In addition, overall state and local government finances continued to benefit from improving revenues. |
| The Funds position in A rated bonds, which outpaced higher-rated bonds amid investors continued search for yield, aided performance during the period. The Funds exposure to the transportation and tax-backed local sector also enhanced performance. The Funds holdings in bonds with shorter call features, which helped reduce its duration exposure, further contributed to returns. (Duration is a measure of interest-rate sensitivity.) |
| Income in the form of coupon payments made up a meaningful portion of the Funds total return for the period. In addition, the Funds minimal cash position and use of leverage provided both incremental return and income. The Funds exposure to the long end of the yield curve, which underperformed the intermediate part of the curve, also detracted from performance. |
| The Funds holdings in Illinois general obligation bonds and Chicago credits, both of which lagged the return of the broader U.S. municipal bond market, detracted from performance. Both entities faced budget shortfalls and concerns about their ability to meet their long-term pension obligations, which prompted the major rating agencies to downgrade their credit ratings. |
The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.
14 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
BlackRock MuniHoldings Quality Fund, Inc. |
Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary |
10/31/15 |
4/30/15 |
Change | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||
Market Price |
$ | 13.21 | $ | 13.32 | (0.83 | )% | $ | 13.33 | $ | 12.58 | ||||||||||
Net Asset Value |
$ | 14.41 | $ | 14.57 | (1.10 | )% | $ | 14.57 | $ | 14.21 |
Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years |
Overview of the Funds Total Investments* |
Call/Maturity Schedule3 | ||||
Calendar Year Ended December 31, |
||||
2015 |
| |||
2016 |
1 | % | ||
2017 |
| |||
2018 |
27 | |||
2019 |
14 |
3 | Scheduled maturity dates and/or bonds that are subject to potential calls by issuers over the next five years. |
* | Excludes short-term securities. |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 15 |
Fund Summary as of October 31, 2015 | BlackRock Muni Intermediate Duration Fund, Inc. |
Fund Overview |
BlackRock Muni Intermediate Duration Fund, Inc.s (MUI) (the Fund) investment objective is to provide common shareholders with high current income exempt from federal income taxes. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its assets in municipal bonds exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax). Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 75% of its assets in municipal bonds rated investment grade and invests at least 80% of its assets in municipal bonds with a duration of three to ten years at the time of investment. The Fund may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.
No assurance can be given that the Funds investment objective will be achieved.
Fund Information |
Symbol on NYSE |
MUI | |
Initial Offering Date |
August 1, 2003 | |
Yield on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2015 ($14.01)1 |
5.61% | |
Tax Equivalent Yield2 |
9.91% | |
Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.0655 | |
Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.7860 | |
Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20154 |
36% |
1 | Yield on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. Past performance does not guarantee future results. |
2 | Tax equivalent yield assumes the maximum marginal federal tax rate of 43.4%, which includes the 3.8% Medicare tax. Actual tax rates will vary based on income, exemptions and deductions. Lower taxes will result in lower tax equivalent yields. |
3 | The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. |
4 | Represents VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Fund, including any assets attributable to VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts, minus the sum of accrued liabilities. For a discussion of leveraging techniques used by the Fund, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 5. |
Performance |
Returns for the six months ended October 31, 2015 were as follows:
Returns Based On | ||||||||
Market Price | NAV3 | |||||||
MUI1 |
(0.40 | )% | 2.35 | % | ||||
Lipper Intermediate Municipal Debt Funds2 |
0.72 | % | 1.76 | % |
1 | All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. |
2 | Average return. |
3 | The Funds discount to NAV, which widened during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. |
The following discussion relates to the Funds absolute performance based on NAV:
| Municipal bonds produced a modest gain during the six-month reporting period. U.S. Treasury yields rose (as prices fell), with the bulk of the increase occurring from the beginning of April through the first week of June. While yields subsequently declined amid signs of slowing global growth, the rally was not sufficient to make up for the earlier weakness. Municipal issues outperformed Treasuries due in part to an increasingly favorable balance of supply and demand in the market, as the heavy new issuance that characterized the first half of 2015 began to abate at mid-year. In addition, state and local government finances continued to benefit from improving revenues. |
| Given that overall tax-exempt rates declined, the Funds longer duration added to performance. However, its position in longer-dated bonds with maturities beyond 25 years was a small detractor from performance given that longer-dated bonds finished with slightly higher yields. The Funds investments in the tax-backed (local and states), healthcare and transportation sectors were positive contributors to performance. The Funds positions in lower coupon bonds and bonds with better call protection also benefited returns, as both segments outperformed. From a credit rating perspective, the best returns came from the portfolios higher-yielding and lower-rated investment-grade credits. Nevertheless, the Funds high-quality pre-refunded bonds also contributed positively to performance. Income in the form of coupon payments made up a meaningful portion of the Funds total return for the period. In addition, the Funds use of leverage generated added income. |
The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.
16 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
BlackRock Muni Intermediate Duration Fund, Inc. |
Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary |
10/31/15 | 4/30/15 | Change | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||
Market Price |
$ | 14.01 | $ | 14.47 | (3.18 | )% | $ | 14.47 | $ | 13.48 | ||||||||||
Net Asset Value |
$ | 15.78 | $ | 15.86 | (0.50 | )% | $ | 15.86 | $ | 15.51 |
Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years |
Overview of the Funds Total Investments* |
Call/Maturity Schedule4 | ||||
Calendar Year Ended December 31, |
||||
2015 |
4 | % | ||
2016 |
2 | |||
2017 |
6 | |||
2018 |
6 | |||
2019 |
10 |
4 | Scheduled maturity dates and/or bonds that are subject to potential calls by issuers over the next five years. |
* | Excludes short-term securities. |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 17 |
Fund Summary as of October 31, 2015 | BlackRock MuniVest Fund II, Inc. |
Fund Overview |
BlackRock MuniVest Fund II, Inc.s (MVT) (the Fund) investment objective is to provide shareholders with as high a level of current income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with its investment policies and prudent investment management. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its assets in municipal bonds exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax). The Fund invests, under normal market conditions, at least 75% of its assets in municipal bonds rated investment grade and invests primarily in long-term municipal bonds with a maturity of more than ten years at the time of investment. The Fund may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.
No assurance can be given that the Funds investment objective will be achieved.
Fund Information |
Symbol on NYSE |
MVT | |
Initial Offering Date |
March 29, 1993 | |
Yield on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2015 ($16.07)1 |
6.20% | |
Tax Equivalent Yield2 |
10.95% | |
Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.083 | |
Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share3 |
$0.996 | |
Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20154 |
38% |
1 | Yield on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. Past performance does not guarantee future results. |
2 | Tax equivalent yield assumes the maximum marginal federal tax rate of 43.4%, which includes the 3.8% Medicare tax. Actual tax rates will vary based on income, exemptions and deductions. Lower taxes will result in lower tax equivalent yields. |
3 | The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. |
4 | Represents VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Fund, including any assets attributable to VMTP Shares and TOB Trusts, minus the sum of accrued liabilities. For a discussion of leveraging techniques used by the Fund, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 5. |
Performance |
Returns for the six months ended October 31, 2015 were as follows:
Returns Based On | ||||||||
Market Price | NAV3 | |||||||
MVT1 |
2.08 | % | 2.25 | %4 | ||||
Lipper General & Insured Municipal Debt Funds (Leveraged)2 |
1.77 | % | 2.20 | % |
1 | All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. |
2 | Average return. |
3 | The Funds premium to NAV, which narrowed during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. |
4 | For financial reporting purposes, the market value of certain investments were adjusted as of report date. Accordingly, the net asset value (NAV) per share and total return performance based on net asset value presented herein are different than the information previously published on October 31, 2015. |
The following discussion relates to the Funds absolute performance based on NAV:
| Municipal bonds produced a modest gain during the six-month reporting period. U.S. Treasury yields rose (as prices fell), with the bulk of the increase occurring from the beginning of April through the first week of June. While yields subsequently declined amid signs of slowing global growth, the rally was not sufficient to make up for the earlier weakness. Municipal issues outperformed Treasuries due in part to an increasingly favorable balance of supply and demand in the market, as the heavy new issuance that characterized the first half of 2015 began to abate at mid-year. In addition, overall state and local government finances continued to benefit from improving revenues. |
| Income in the form of coupon payments made up a meaningful portion of the Funds total return for the period. In addition, the Funds use of leverage provided both incremental return and income in a relatively stable rate environment. |
| The Funds positions in AA rated bonds, as well as in those on the lower end of the investment grade spectrum, were key drivers of its six-month results. The Fund benefited from the additional yield these securities generated, as well as the ongoing decline in yield spreads in these market segments. The Funds positions in the transportation, healthcare, tobacco and utilities sectors also aided performance. |
| The Funds overall yield curve positioning was a modest detractor from performance, due largely to its investments in longer-maturity bonds issued by Illinois and New Jersey. Ongoing concerns regarding the states budget and pension-funding challenges undermined valuations for both state and local general obligation debt. |
The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.
18 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
BlackRock MuniVest Fund II, Inc. |
Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary |
10/31/15 | 4/30/15 | Change | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||
Market Price |
$ | 16.07 | $ | 16.26 | (1.17 | )% | $ | 16.29 | $ | 14.53 | ||||||||||
Net Asset Value |
$ | 15.85 | $ | 16.01 | (1.00 | )% | $ | 16.01 | $ | 15.56 |
Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years |
Overview of the Funds Total Investments* |
Call/Maturity Schedule4 | ||||
Calendar Year Ended December 31, |
||||
2015 |
5 | % | ||
2016 |
3 | |||
2017 |
7 | |||
2018 |
12 | |||
2019 |
22 |
4 | Scheduled maturity dates and/or bonds that are subject to potential calls by issuers over the next five years. |
* | Excludes short-term securities. |
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 19 |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA) (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
Portfolio Abbreviations |
AGC | Assured Guarantee Corp. | EDA | Economic Development Authority | IDB | Industrial Development Board | |||||
AGM | Assured Guaranty Municipal Corp. | EDC | Economic Development Corp. | ISD | Independent School District | |||||
AMBAC | American Municipal Bond Assurance Corp. | ERB | Education Revenue Bonds | LRB | Lease Revenue Bonds | |||||
AMT | Alternative Minimum Tax (subject to) | GARB | General Airport Revenue Bonds | M/F | Multi-Family | |||||
ARB | Airport Revenue Bonds | GO | General Obligation Bonds | NPFGC | National Public Finance Guarantee Corp. | |||||
BARB | Building Aid Revenue Bonds | GTD | Guaranteed | PSF-GTD | Permanent School Fund Guaranteed | |||||
BHAC | Berkshire Hathaway Assurance Corp. | HDA | Housing Development Authority | RB | Revenue Bonds | |||||
CAB | Capital Appreciation Bonds | HFA | Housing Finance Agency | S/F | Single-Family | |||||
COP | Certificates of Participation | IDA | Industrial Development Authority |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
20 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 21 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
22 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 23 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
24 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA) |
Notes to Schedule of Investments |
(a) | Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. |
(b) | U.S. Government securities, held in escrow, are used to pay interest on this security, as well as to retire the bond in full at the date indicated, typically at a premium to par. |
(c) | Issuer filed for bankruptcy and/or is in default of interest payments. |
(d) | Non-income producing security. |
(e) | Represents a step-up bond that pays an initial coupon rate for the first period and then a higher coupon rate for the following periods. Rate shown is as of period end. |
(f) | Zero-coupon bond. |
(g) | Variable rate security. Rate shown is as of period end. |
(h) | When-issued security. |
(i) | Represent bonds transferred to a TOB Trust in exchange of cash and residual certificates received by the Fund. These bonds serve as collateral in a secured borrowing. See Note 4 of the Notes to Financial Statements for details. |
(j) | All or a portion of security is subject to a recourse agreement, which may require the Fund to pay the liquidity provider in the event there is a shortfall between the TOB Trust Certificates and proceeds received from the sale of the security contributed to the TOB Trust or in the event of a default on the security. In the case of a shortfall or default, the aggregate maximum potential amount the Fund could ultimately be required to pay under the agreements, which expire between February 15, 2019 to January 1, 2033, is $16,356,996. |
(k) | During the six months ended October 31, 2015, investments in issuers considered to be an affiliate of the Fund for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the 1940 Act, as amended, were as follows: |
Affiliate |
Shares Held 2015 |
Net Activity |
Shares Held at October 31, 2015 |
Income | ||||||||||||
FFI Institutional Tax-Exempt Fund |
961,095 | (226,927 | ) | 734,168 | $ | 207 |
(l) | Represents the current yield as of period end. |
Derivative Financial Instruments Outstanding as of Period End |
Financial Futures Contracts
Contracts
Short |
Issue | Expiration |
Notional Value |
Unrealized Appreciation |
||||||||||
(28) | 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note | December 2015 | $ | 3,575,250 | $ | 51,435 | ||||||||
(20) | 5-Year U.S. Treasury Note | December 2015 | $ | 2,395,469 | 26,734 | |||||||||
(13) | Long U.S. Treasury Bond | December 2015 | $ | 2,033,687 | 39,984 | |||||||||
(4) | U.S. Ultra Bond | December 2015 | $ | 639,000 | 13,620 | |||||||||
Total | $ | 131,773 | ||||||||||||
|
|
See Notes to Financial Statements.
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 25 |
Schedule of Investments (concluded) |
BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc. (MUA) |
Derivative Financial Instruments Categorized by Risk Exposure |
As of period end, the fair values of derivative financial instruments located in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities were as follows:
Assets Derivative Financial Instruments | Commodity Contracts |
Credit Contracts |
Equity Contracts |
Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts |
Interest Rate Contracts |
Other Contracts |
Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Financial futures contracts |
Net unrealized appreciation | 1 | | | | | $ | 131,773 | | $ | 131,773 | |||||||||||||||||||||
1 Includes cumulative appreciation (depreciation) on financial futures contracts, as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current days variation margin is reported within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. |
|
For the six months ended October 31, 2015, the effect of derivative financial instruments in the Statements of Operations was as follows:
Net Realized Gain (Loss) from: | Commodity Contracts |
Credit Contracts |
Equity Contracts |
Foreign Exchange Contracts |
Interest Rate Contracts |
Other Contracts |
Total | |||||||||||||||||||||
Financial futures contracts |
| | | | $ | (594,791 | ) | | $ | (594,791 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on: | Commodity Contracts |
Credit Contracts |
Equity Contracts |
Foreign Currency Contracts |
Interest Rate Contracts |
Other Contracts |
Total | |||||||||||||||||||||
Financial futures contracts |
| | | | $ | 486,072 | | $ | 486,072 |
Average Quarterly Balances of Outstanding Derivative Financial Instruments |
Financial futures contracts: |
||||
Average notional value of contracts short |
$ | 16,874,297 |
For more information about the Funds investment risks regarding derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
Fair Value Hierarchy as of Period End |
Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments and derivative financial instruments. For information about the Funds policy regarding valuation of investments and derivative financial instruments, refer to the Notes to Financial Statements.
The following tables summarize the Funds investments and derivative financial instruments categorized in the disclosure hierarchy:
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
Assets: |
||||||||||||||||
Investments: | ||||||||||||||||
Long-Term Investments1 |
| $ | 565,759,293 | | $ | 565,759,293 | ||||||||||
Short-Term Securities |
$ | 734,168 | | | 734,168 | |||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Total |
$ | 734,168 | $ | 565,759,293 | | $ | 566,493,461 | |||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||
1 See above Schedule of Investments for values in each state or political subdivision. |
| |||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments1 | ||||||||||||||||
Assets: |
||||||||||||||||
Interest rate contracts |
$ | 131,773 | | | $ | 131,773 | ||||||||||
1 Derivative financial instruments are financial futures contracts, which are valued at the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the instrument. |
| |||||||||||||||
The Fund may hold assets and/or liabilities in which the fair value approximates the carrying amount for financial statement purposes. As of period end, such assets and/or liabilities are categorized within the disclosure hierarchy as follows: | ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
Assets: |
||||||||||||||||
Cash pledged for financial futures contracts |
$ | 116,950 | | | $ | 116,950 | ||||||||||
Liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||
TOB Trust Certificates |
| $ | (70,423,268 | ) | | (70,423,268 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Total |
$ | 116,950 | $ | (70,423,268 | ) | | $ | (70,306,318 | ) | |||||||
|
|
During the six months ended October 31, 2015, there were no transfers between levels.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
26 | SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 |
Schedule of Investments October 31, 2015 (Unaudited) |
BlackRock MuniEnhanced Fund, Inc. (MEN) (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT | OCTOBER 31, 2015 | 27 |
Schedule of Investments (continued) |
BlackRock MuniEnhanced Fund, Inc. (MEN) |