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: 811-04875
Name of Registrant: Royce Value Trust, Inc.
Address of Registrant: 745 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10151
Name and address of agent for service: | John E. Denneen, Esq. 745 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10151 |
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (212) 508-4500
Date of fiscal year end: December 31, 2020
Date of reporting period: January 1, 2020 – June 30, 2020
Item 1. Reports to Shareholders.
Royce Closed-End Funds 2020 Semiannual
Review and Report to Stockholders
June 30, 2020
Royce Global Value Trust
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
Royce Value Trust
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Funds’ shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the Funds or from your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank). Instead, the reports will be made available on the Funds’ website (www.royceinvest.com), and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report. If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Funds electronically anytime by contacting your financial intermediary or, if you are a direct investor with the Funds, by calling 1-800-841-1180. Beginning on January 1, 2019, you may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. If you invest through a financial intermediary, you can contact your financial intermediary to request that you continue to receive paper copies of your shareholder reports. If you invest directly with the Funds, you can call 1-800-841-1180 to let the Funds know you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all Funds held in your account if you invest through your financial intermediary or all Funds held with our fund complex if you invest directly with the Funds.
A Few Words on Closed-End Funds
Royce Investment Partners manages three closed-end funds: Royce Global Value Trust, which invests primarily in companies with headquarters outside of the United States; Royce Micro-Cap Trust, which invests primarily in micro-cap securities; and Royce Value Trust, which invests primarily in small-cap securities. A closed-end fund is an investment company whose shares are listed and traded on a stock exchange. Like all investment companies, including open-end mutual funds, the assets of a closed-end fund are professionally managed in accordance with the investment objectives and policies approved by the fund’s Board of Directors. A closed-end fund raises cash for investment by issuing a fixed number of shares through initial and other public offerings that may include shelf offerings and periodic rights offerings. Proceeds from the offerings are invested in an actively managed portfolio of securities. Investors wanting to buy or sell shares of a publicly traded closed-end fund after the offerings must do so on a stock exchange, as with any publicly traded stock. Shares of closed-end funds frequently trade at a discount to their net asset value. This is in contrast to open-end mutual funds, which sell and redeem their shares at net asset value on a continuous basis.
A Closed-End Fund Can Offer Several Distinct Advantages
| • | A closed-end fund does not issue redeemable securities or offer its securities on a continuous basis, so it does not need to liquidate securities or hold uninvested assets to meet investor demands for cash redemptions. |
| • | In a closed-end fund, not having to meet investor redemption requests or invest at inopportune times can be effective for value managers who attempt to buy stocks when prices are depressed and sell securities when prices are high. |
| • | A closed-end fund may invest in less liquid portfolio securities because it is not subject to potential stockholder redemption demands. This is potentially beneficial for Royce-managed closed-end funds, with significant investments in small- and micro-cap securities. |
| • | The fixed capital structure allows permanent leverage to be employed as a means to enhance capital appreciation potential. |
| • | Royce Micro-Cap Trust and Royce Value Trust distribute capital gains, if any, on a quarterly basis. Each of these Funds has adopted a quarterly distribution policy for its common stock. |
We believe that the closed-end fund structure can be an appropriate investment for a long-term investor who understands the benefits of a more stable pool of capital.
Why Dividend Reinvestment Is Important
A very important component of an investor’s total return comes from the reinvestment of distributions. By reinvesting distributions, our investors can maintain an undiluted investment in a Fund. To get a fair idea of the impact of reinvested distributions, please see the charts on pages 56 and 57. For additional information on the Funds’ Distribution Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Options and the benefits for stockholders, please see page 58 or visit our website at www.royceinvest.com.
Managed Distribution Policy
The Board of Directors of each of Royce Micro-Cap Trust and Royce Value Trust has authorized a managed distribution policy (“MDP”). Under the MDP, Royce Micro-Cap Trust and Royce Value Trust pay quarterly distributions at an annual rate of 7% of the average of the prior four quarter-end net asset values, with the fourth quarter being the greater of these annualized rates or the distribution required by IRS regulations. With each distribution, the Fund will issue a notice to its stockholders and an accompanying press release that provides detailed information regarding the amount and composition of the distribution (including whether any portion of the distribution represents a return of capital) and other information required by a Fund’s MDP. You should not draw any conclusions about a Fund’s investment performance from the amount of distributions or from the terms of a Fund’s MDP. A Fund’s Board of Directors may amend or terminate the MDP at any time without prior notice to stockholders; however, at this time there are no reasonably foreseeable circumstances that might cause the termination of any of the MDPs.
This page is not part of the 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Table of Contents
This page is not part of the 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Letter to Our Stockholders
THE LONGEST HALF
Before delving into our usual analysis of the small-cap market, we first want to offer our deepest sympathies to all those affected by the coronavirus and to extend an equal measure of gratitude to the many essential workers who have done so much to help us all in various ways during this period of pandemic-induced difficulties. We are also grateful for all of the extraordinary efforts by our Royce colleagues, as they have been working diligently to keep our company operating at full strength while working from home.
The first half of 2020 was as turbulent a six-month period as we have seen in nearly 50 years of small-cap asset management. The Russell 2000 Index experienced the worst quarter in its own 40-year history in 1Q20, losing 30.6%, before rebounding to enjoy its third best in the second quarter, when it advanced 25.4%. As wide as the distance is between them, these numbers fail to fully capture the extremes. The Russell 2000 fell 41.5% from 2/20/20-3/18/20 before advancing 46.0% from March’s 2020 low through the end of June. Comparable levels of the same volatility could be seen across other capitalization ranges and geographies as the world reeled from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has wreaked havoc on public health and the global economy.
From our perspective as experienced small-cap specialists, the most interesting element about the market’s V-shaped pattern since mid-February was that stocks behaved in a manner that was simultaneously anomalous and familiar. Like the public health crisis that engendered the initial decline, the speed and depth with which equities fell was indeed unprecedented. The pace and height of the subsequent rebound has been surpassed only once before, in the spring of 2009. Yet the overall pattern is one that we have seen before. Deep bear markets have historically been followed by vibrant comebacks. The range of returns along market cap parameters added to the familiar tenor. After losing more in the first quarter, small- and micro-cap stocks roared back to outpace their large-cap counterparts in the second. Moreover, factors such as cyclicality and perceived riskiness also performed in line with our expectations through most of the first half of 2020.
One notable exception, at least for a short time, was the underperformance of cyclical stocks within small-cap early in the recovery period. This temporary disadvantage may have been an unintended consequence of the Fed’s decision to put enough liquidity into the capital markets to rebuild stability and restore the financial system to something resembling normal operations as the markets were plunging. Yet these moves—which in our view were entirely
Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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LETTER TO OUR STOCKHOLDERS
appropriate and necessary—also appeared to shift higher-growth companies into pole position in small-cap, leaving cyclicals to play catch-up into the middle of May, nearly two months after the nascent upswing. Since cyclicals historically make strong moves off market bottoms (especially when accompanied by improving economic data, as was the case this year), we were somewhat surprised. Cyclicals more than made up for their slow start, however, by nearly doubling the return for defensives from mid-May through the end of June, up 18.1% versus 9.5%. Needless to say, a result in the high teens over six weeks is an impressive move under any circumstances.
DISSECTING THE DISCONNECT
The more immediate, and for many more vexing matter, however, is the disconnect between a weakened economy and a robust, albeit highly volatile, U.S. equity market. It’s always a cause for concern for some when the market appears out of sync with the economy. But in the midst of a public health crisis, one that’s led to sorrow for many and challenges for all, the contrast becomes particularly stark. We understand why many people, including a number of skilled and experienced investors, have serious misgivings about the overall upward direction of the stock market during a pandemic. However, we think these objections ultimately rest on two misconceptions.
The first is the idea that stock prices are a barometer of current corporate health. Yet stocks are almost never priced based on what’s happening today. The market’s tendency is to look forward to what is most likely to happen one, two, or even three years down the road. In other words, the market’s behavior is rooted in expectations of corporate profitability. So in spite of the currently long list of challenges we face, the market is anticipating a recovering economy over the next couple of years. Equally important, investors are confident that most companies’ profits will be higher over the next year or two, which should boost the value of their shares.
The second misconception is that equities are independent of other financial conditions. Yet stocks are, after all, financial assets. As such, conditions in the financial markets affect their prices. With interest rates at all-time lows, it makes sense that stocks would be
selling at higher prices. Lower rates typically make equities appear more attractive compared to other investments. The Fed’s decision to provide ample liquidity to the financial markets and maintain interest rates at close to zero should support rising stock prices because plentiful amounts of capital are available for investment, and there are relatively few attractive alternatives. The current strong and stable state of the equity markets helps to explain why “Don’t Fight the Fed” is such a reliable adage.
THE CASE FOR SMALL-CAPS IN FIVE CHARTS
Our overall outlook for small-caps, then, is cautiously optimistic. In large part, this is because we expect the economy will continue to recover over the next few years, spurring profit growth as it does. We also think that small-caps continue to look relatively more attractive than most other areas of the market. Its recent robust run notwithstanding, the Russell 2000 was down 13.0% in 2020’s first half versus a loss of 2.8% for the large-cap Russell 1000 Index. Similarly, the Nasdaq made new all-time highs in this year’s rebound while the small-cap index finished June 2020 14.9% below its August 2018 peak.
Along with relatively more attractive small-cap prices, we also see the financially healthy state of many small-cap companies. We examined performance for the Russell 2000 compared to the index’s trailing 12-month cash flow per share from the peak on 8/31/18 through 6/30/20. Our analysis, seen below, showed that cash flow per share has made steady positive progress that accelerated to a more robust pace near the end of this nearly two-year period, while small-cap performance lagged this metric over the same period.
Russell 2000 Performance vs Trailing 12-month Cash Flow Per Share Percent Change from 8/31/18 Peak as of 6/30/20
Trailing 12-Month Cash Flow Per Share is calculated as the after-tax earnings of a company plus depreciation on a per-share basis. It is often used to measure a company’s financial strength.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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LETTER TO OUR STOCKHOLDERS
Taking a look at the asset class’s longer-term history paints an equally compelling picture. For example, during the subsequent two-year periods following its last major declines—the Internet Bubble and the Financial Crisis—small-caps recovered significantly more than they did during the first half of 2020.
Small-Cap’s Bear-Market Rebounds
Russell 2000 subsequent two-year periods following troughs |  |
Also supporting the idea that small-caps have room to run is the five-year average annual total return for the Russell 2000 at the end of June—which was 4.3%. This result is well below both the rolling monthly five-year average of 10.5% for the small-cap index since its inception and its 9.6% average annual five-year return following lower-return periods.
The subsequent five-year returns following periods of low Russell 2000 returns have on average been very attractive. Most important in our view, small-caps averaged a 13.8% subsequent five-year annualized return when trailing performance was in the 0-5% range, as it was at the end of June 2020.
Subsequent 5-Year Returns Based on Prior 5-Year Return Ranges Russell 2000 Since Inception From 12/31/78 through 6/30/20
Trailing Russell 2000 Five-Year Return Range (12/31/78 through 6/30/20)
Coincident with small-cap’s lower return pattern over the last five years has been relative underperformance versus large-cap stocks.
While leadership between small-caps and large-caps has rotated over the last several decades, the degree of current large-cap performance is unusual. (For longer-term studies we use CRSP (Center for Research in Security Prices) indexes, whose small-cap proxy, the CRSP 6-10, has a longer history than the Russell 2000.) Since the end of 1945 through June 30th of this year, the CRSP 6-10 led the CRSP 1-5, its large-cap counterpart, with a rolling monthly average annual five-year return of 12.8% for the former compared with 11.3% for the latter. However, for the five-year period ended 6/30/20, small-cap trailed large-cap by 5.9% as the CRSP 6-10 advanced 4.8% versus a gain of 10.7% for the CRSP 1-5. This degree of small-cap underperformance is notable, as it has happened in only 13%, 107 out of 835, of all five-year periods. What happened next is equally if not more interesting: when the CRSP 6-10 lagged the CRSP 1-5 by at least 5.5%, small-cap subsequently rebounded to beat large-cap in 83% of the subsequent five-year periods—86 out of 103 times. We anticipate a rotation in leadership not simply because extreme performance spreads between asset classes and/or indexes tend to be followed by reversals but also due to small-cap’s longstanding edge over large-caps following bear markets and in particular during economic rebounds.
Further, our chosen asset class was in an even rarer state at the end of June, one that bolsters our confidence in both its absolute and relative performance prospects. For the one-year period ended 6/30/20, the Russell 2000 was down 6.6% versus a gain of 7.5% for the Russell 1000. How unusual is this combination of a negative return for small-cap and a positive result for large-cap over a 12-month span? Over the last 20 years, it’s happened about 10% of the time, in only 23 out of 229 monthly rolling periods. Even more important is what typically happens next.
Small-cap stocks have rebounded resoundingly over the subsequent 12-month periods, beating large-cap 81% of the time and posting an average one-year return of 19.0% versus 16.8% for large-caps.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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LETTER TO OUR STOCKHOLDERS
Small-Caps Have Rebounded Following the Rare Concurrence of a Negative 12-Month Return for Small-Cap with a Positive Return for Large-Cap Trailing 1-Year Periods from 6/30/00 to 6/30/20
Of course, our strategies each focus selectively, concentrating on more than just the overall small-cap market. Their differences notwithstanding, each has an overall tilt toward economically sensitive cyclical sectors, with most weighted heavily in Industrials and Information Technology while others, such as our dividend value portfolios, typically have much more exposure to Financials than technology companies. Regardless of each strategy’s areas of focus, we think these three sectors offer a broad and diverse selection of companies with attractive attributes.
As has been the case with small-cap value and growth, cyclicals have been lagging their defensive counterparts over the last several years. However, the U.S. economy appears to have bottomed in April. The monthly ISM (Institute for Supply Management) manufacturing index began to climb again in May and rose by a highly encouraging 9.5 points between May and June, from 43.1 to 52.6. This was also significant in that a number more than 50 indicates expanding growth in manufacturing orders and production. Moreover, the U.S. housing market continues to grow, showing remarkable resilience in the face of the pandemic. The all-important U.S. consumer remains something of a wild card considering the still uncertain state of public health. However, if consumer spending continues to trend positively, as it did during May, then the economy should grow more quickly. In addition to a global economic recovery, cyclicals would benefit from a weaker dollar, a dose of inflation, and earnings growth—as would value stocks.
Within this optimistic scenario, the valuation picture is also critical as it forms an integral part of the case for small-cap cyclicals. As a whole, small-cap valuations appear far more reasonable than those of large-caps. Within small-cap, cyclicals look much cheaper than defensive stocks. To be sure, at the end of June they were at their cheapest in more than 20 years compared to defensives, based on our preferred valuation metric, the Russell 2000’s relative median EV/EBIT (Enterprise Value divided by Earnings Before Interest & Taxes, excluding companies with negative EBIT).
Russell 2000 Relative Median EV/EBIT (Ex Negative EBIT)
From 6/30/00 to 6/30/20
EV/EBIT: Enterprise Value/Earnings Before Interest and Taxes. Cyclical is defined as follows: Communication Services, Consumer Discretionary, Energy, Financials, Industrials, Information Technology, and Materials. Defensive: Consumer Staples, Health Care, Real Estate, Utilities. Source: FactSet
Why is all of this data important? While past performance patterns are never sure to repeat themselves, the economic growth periods that have followed recessions have disproportionately rewarded small-cap cyclical stocks throughout history.
IT’S THE VISTA, NOT THE VIEW
As we look forward, we have kept our scope squarely on the long run. However optimistic we are about the years ahead, the view of the next weeks and months remains foggy. Our confidence in an economic recovery and the likely rewards that would flow to small-cap cyclicals and select value stocks is therefore rooted in our perennial long-term perspective. Some market observers argue that equities could tread water through the end of this year before resuming an upward move in an improving economy. As plausible as this case is, we are not entirely convinced that evidence of a recovered economy is the only catalyst
Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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LETTER TO OUR STOCKHOLDERS
Our habit of looking beyond the near term has opened up a brighter vista where we can see both the economy and corporate profits rebounding beyond the next several quarters.
that can keep share prices afloat. The second half of 2009 provides what may be an instructive example. After their recovery off the trough in March of that year, equities continued to advance through the end of December. Throughout the entire year of 2009, pessimism reigned, buoyed by anxieties about the seeming contradiction among rising stock prices, the underwhelming state of the global economy, and the fragility of the world’s financial system. Yet the market scaled that wall of worry with relative ease. Our own experience, both then and now, has taught us two lessons that are of particular relevance to the present moment: First, shocks are what have hurt stocks the most historically—known worries are often priced in fully or at least close to it; second, stocks often advance on economic news that is less grim, meaning that even slight improvements in economic data could be more than enough impetus to keep investors buying.
In fact, we think those more fatalistic investors may be surprised by how quickly earnings recover. Our current situation is unique in many ways. This is especially true for the markets and the economy where the struggles have been bred by a public health crisis as opposed
to financial excess or economic distress. The resulting short-term uncertainty and attendant market turbulence are allowing us to try taking advantage of two market dynamics that we believe play to the strengths of active management: high volatility and short-term thinking. And our own habit of looking beyond the near term has opened up a brighter vista where we can see both the economy and corporate profits rebounding beyond the next several quarters.
Finally, we want to share the news about three recent additions to our investment staff: Portfolio Manager Miles Lewis, CFA®; Senior Analyst and Director of International Research Mark Fischer; and Senior Analyst and Director of Strategic Research Jag Sriram, CFA®. All joined Royce during the second quarter of 2020, and their respective arrivals highlight the fact that, even in these challenging times, we are committed to adding skilled professionals to our firm. Miles, Mark, and Jag are important additions to our highly experienced investment team. We look forward to them contributing investment insights to our portfolios that benefit our investors.
| Sincerely, | | |
| | | |
 |  |  |
| | | |
| Charles M. Royce | Christopher D. Clark | Francis D. Gannon |
| Chairman, | Chief Executive Officer, and | Co-Chief Investment Officer, |
| Royce Investment Partners | Co-Chief Investment Officer, | Royce Investment Partners |
| | Royce Investment Partners | |
| July 31, 2020 | | |
6 | This page is not part of the 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Performance
NAV Average Annual Total Returns
As of June 30, 2020 (%)
| | | | | | | | | | | SINCE | INCEPTION |
| | YTD¹ | 1-YR | 3-YR | 5-YR | 10-YR | 15-YR | 20-YR | 25-YR | 30-YR | INCEPTION | DATE |
| Royce Global Value Trust | -6.91 | 2.46 | 4.97 | 6.41 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 5.02 | 10/17/13 |
| Royce Micro-Cap Trust | -6.21 | 0.80 | 4.08 | 5.27 | 10.53 | 7.25 | 8.91 | 9.95 | N/A | 10.06 | 12/14/93 |
| Royce Value Trust | -8.92 | -0.60 | 4.19 | 6.82 | 10.30 | 7.16 | 8.35 | 9.57 | 10.10 | 10.04 | 11/26/86 |
| INDEX | | | | | | | | | | | |
| MSCI ACWI Small Cap Index | -12.85 | -5.54 | 1.43 | 3.67 | 8.61 | 6.89 | 6.85 | 7.30 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Russell Microcap Index | -11.21 | -4.77 | 0.85 | 2.86 | 9.93 | 5.65 | 6.53 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Russell 2000 Index | -12.98 | -6.63 | 2.01 | 4.29 | 10.50 | 7.01 | 6.69 | 8.16 | 8.93 | N/A | N/A |
Important Performance and Risk Information
All performance information in this Review and Report reflects past performance, is presented on a total return basis, net of the Fund’s investment advisory fee, and reflects the reinvestment of distributions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate, so that shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when sold. Current performance may be higher or lower than performance quoted. Current month-end performance may be obtained at www.royceinvest.com. The Funds are closed-end registered investment companies whose respective shares of common stock may trade at a discount to the net asset value. Shares of each Fund’s common stock are also subject to the market risk of investing in the underlying portfolio securities held by each Fund. Each series of The Royce Fund is subject to market risk-the possibility that common stock prices will decline, sometimes sharply and unpredictably, over short or extended periods of time. Such declines may be caused by various factors, including market, financial, and economic conditions, governmental or central bank actions, and other factors, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic, that may not be directly related to the issuer of a security held by a Fund. This pandemic could adversely affect global market, financial, and economic conditions in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen. All indexes referenced are unmanaged and capitalization-weighted. Each index’s returns include net reinvested dividends and/or interest income. Source: MSCI. MSCI makes no express or implied warranties or representations and shall have no liability whatsoever with respect to any MSCI data contained herein. The MSCI data may not be further redistributed or used as a basis for other indexes or any securities or financial products. This report is not approved, endorsed, reviewed or produced by MSCI. None of the MSCI data is intended to constitute investment advice or a recommendation to make (or refrain from making) any kind of investment decision and may not be relied on as such. Russell Investment Group is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell Investment Group. The Russell 2000 Index is an index of domestic small-cap stocks that measures the performance of the 2,000 smallest publicly traded U.S. companies in the Russell 3000 Index. The Russell Microcap Index includes 1,000 of the smallest securities in the small-cap Russell 2000 Index, along with the next smallest eligible securities as determined by Russell. The Russell Global Small Cap Index is an unmanaged, capitalization-weighted index of global small-cap stocks. The MSCI ACWI Small Cap Index is an unmanaged, capitalization-weighted index of global small-cap stocks. The performance of an index does not represent exactly any particular investment, as you cannot invest directly in an index. Royce Value, Micro-Cap, and Global Value Trust shares of common stock trade on the NYSE. Royce Fund Services, LLC (“RFS”) is a member of FINRA and files certain material with FINRA on behalf of each Fund. RFS is not an underwriter or distributor of any of the Funds.
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MANAGER’S DISCUSSION (UNAUDITED)
Royce Global Value Trust (RGT)
Chuck Royce
FUND PERFORMANCE
Royce Global Value Trust (“RGT”) fell 6.9% on an NAV (net asset value) basis and declined 1.0% based on market price for the year-to-date period ended 6/30/20, losing significantly less than its unleveraged benchmark, the MSCI ACWI Small Cap Index, which declined 12.8% for the same period. The Fund also outpaced the MSCI ACWI Small Cap Index on both a NAV and market price basis for the one-, three-, five-year, and since inception (10/17/13) periods ended 6/30/20.
WHAT WORKED… AND WHAT DIDN’T
Five of the 10 equity sectors in which the portfolio held investments finished 2020’s first half with losses. Industrials, RGT’s largest weighting, detracted most by a wide margin, followed by Energy and Consumer Discretionary. Conversely, Health Care contributed most to performance. Information Technology and Financials were also additive, rounding out the top three. Energy equipment & services (Energy) made the largest negative impact at the industry level, followed by professional services and machinery, both in Industrials. Capital markets (Financials) made an outsized positive impact at the industry level while metals & mining (Materials) and health care equipment & supplies (Health Care) also contributed.
Canada-based Computer Modelling Group, which is a software company that produces reservoir simulation software for the oil and gas industry, detracted most at the position level in 2020’s first half. Like many businesses with exposure to the energy industry, its stock fell mostly as a result of turmoil in the oil and gas markets. Surmising that current energy oversupply conditions may persist, we exited our position in RGT’s portfolio. Texas-based Kirby Corporation, which is a tank barge operator that transports bulk liquid products across the U.S., also hindered performance as revenue for the marine transportation business declined substantially in the first quarter of 2020. Citing the COVID-19-driven global recession, its potential impact on future demand, and highly volatile industry conditions, Kirby also withdrew full-year earnings guidance in May. Assured Guaranty, which provides municipal bond insurance and financial guarantees for infrastructure and structured financings, was the third-largest detractor as its large exposure to cities and states facing various fiscal stresses appeared to discourage investors.
Descartes Systems Group, which is a Canada-based technology company specializing in supply chain management and logistics software, as well as cloud-based services for logistics businesses, was the top performing position in 2020’s first half. The company reported fiscal fourth-quarter and full-year results in March that showed increases in revenue and earnings. Its growth has been driven by its Global Logistics Network (GLN) product, which is helping companies overcome supply chain issues wrought by the pandemic. Tel Aviv Stock Exchange was also additive to performance. In late May of 2020, the company reported robust growth in revenue and net profits. The exchange has remained fully operational throughout the pandemic and saw a substantial increase in trading volume as well as higher revenue from listing fees and increases in annual levies. Global investment management specialist Sprott consolidated its operations to focus solely on hard assets and found itself well positioned to benefit from the recent appreciation in gold prices.
Relative to the MSCI ACWI Small Cap Index, the Fund benefited from both stock selection and sector allocation, with the former having by far the higher impact. Financials was the top relative performing sector by a wide margin due to our savvy stock selection. Real Estate followed as a result of our lower weighting and, to a lesser degree, stock picks. The Fund’s cash position was also additive to relative performance. Conversely, our lower exposure to Health Care hindered performance, while ineffective stock picks hurt results in both Consumer Discretionary and, on a very modest level, Communication Services.
| | | | | | | |
| | Top Contributors to Performance | | | Top Detractors from Performance | | |
| | Year-to-Date Through 6/30/20 (%)1 | | | Year-to-Date Through 6/30/20 (%)2 | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | Descartes Systems Group (The) | 0.84 | | Computer Modelling Group | -0.53 | |
| | Tel Aviv Stock Exchange | 0.75 | | Kirby Corporation | -0.51 | |
| | Sprott | 0.69 | | Assured Guaranty | -0.48 | |
| | Alamos Gold Cl. A | 0.67 | | Tegma Gestao Logistica | -0.46 | |
| | Virtu Financial Cl. A | 0.50 | | Pason Systems | -0.44 | |
| | 1 Includes dividends | | | 2 Net of dividends | | |
| | | | | | | |
CURRENT POSITIONING AND OUTLOOK
Though uncertainty and volatility will remain elevated until investors can better quantify the full economic impact of the coronavirus, the depth of various recessions, and the extent of structural economic damage, the global nature of the problem seems likely to receive a boost from an ongoing coordinated international response to rebuild confidence. Central banks appear willing to increase accommodation to ease any future economic disruptions even as fiscal policy takes center stage. Thus, despite near-term concerns, the building blocks are in place for an economic recovery that will benefit the more economically sensitive parts of the overall economy as supply-side shocks eventually wane and pent-up demand is released. As long-term investors, our goal is to take advantage of the volatility, as it always is during market dislocations. We continue to believe that the current backdrop should favor companies with sustainable business models, positive cash flows, and/or the potential for earnings strength and profitability. We are confident that the small-cap businesses we own, particularly those with low debt, solid cash flows, and capable management teams, are more likely to weather a more volatile and potentially lower-return environment than their weaker peers.
8 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
| PERFORMANCE AND PORTFOLIO REVIEW (UNAUDITED) | SYMBOLS MARKET PRICE RGT NAV XRGTX |
Performance
Average Annual Total Return (%) Through 6/30/20
| | JAN-JUN 20201 | 1-YR | 3-YR | 5-YR | SINCE INCEPTION (10/17/13) |
| RGT (NAV) | -6.91 | 2.46 | 4.97 | 6.41 | 5.02 |
Market Price Performance History Since Inception (10/17/13)
Cumulative Performance of Investment1
| | 1-YR | 5-YR | 10-YR | 15-YR | 20-YR | SINCE INCEPTION (10/17/13) |
| RGT | 10.2% | 46.6% | N/A | N/A | N/A | 38.3% |
| 1 | Reflects the cumulative performance experience of a continuous common stockholder who purchased one share at inception ($8.975 IPO) and reinvested all distributions. |
| 2 | Reflects the actual month-end market price movement of one share as it has traded on NYSE. |
Morningstar Style Map™ As of 6/30/20
The Morningstar Style Map is the Morningstar Style Box™ with the center 75% of fund holdings plotted as the Morningstar Ownership Zone™. The Morningstar Style Box is designed to reveal a fund’s investment strategy. The Morningstar Ownership Zone provides detail about a portfolio’s investment style by showing the range of stock sizes and styles. The Ownership Zone is derived by plotting each stock in the portfolio within the proprietary Morningstar Style Box. Over time, the shape and location of a fund's ownership zone may vary. See page 66 for additional information.
| Top 10 Positions | |
| % of Net Assets | |
| | |
| Tel Aviv Stock Exchange | 2.8 |
| IPH | 2.1 |
| Descartes Systems Group (The) | 1.9 |
| XP Power | 1.8 |
| Sprott | 1.5 |
| IMCD | 1.5 |
| SEI Investments | 1.5 |
| Amadeus Fire | 1.4 |
| Quaker Chemical | 1.4 |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | 1.3 |
| Portfolio Sector Breakdown | |
| % of Net Assets | |
| | |
| Industrials | 34.2 |
| Information Technology | 28.5 |
| Financials | 15.2 |
| Health Care | 8.3 |
| Materials | 7.3 |
| Consumer Discretionary | 2.6 |
| Real Estate | 2.5 |
| Consumer Staples | 1.9 |
| Energy | 1.3 |
| Communication Services | 1.3 |
| Outstanding Line of Credit, Net of Cash and Cash Equivalents | -3.1 |
| Calendar Year Total Returns (%) | |
| | |
| YEAR | RGT |
| 2019 | 31.2 |
| 2018 | -16.1 |
| 2017 | 31.1 |
| 2016 | 11.1 |
| 2015 | -3.4 |
| 2014 | -6.2 |
| Portfolio Country Breakdown 1,2 | |
| % of Net Assets | |
| | |
| United States | 24.2 |
| United Kingdom | 16.1 |
| Canada | 12.6 |
| Japan | 10.2 |
| Sweden | 6.1 |
| Germany | 5.7 |
| Australia | 4.2 |
| Switzerland | 3.9 |
| Israel | 3.8 |
| ¹ | Represents countries that are 3% or more of net assets. |
| ² | Securities are categorized by the country of their headquarters. |
| Portfolio Diagnostics | |
| | |
| Fund Net Assets | $133 million |
| Number of Holdings | 154 |
| Turnover Rate | 39% |
| Net Asset Value | $12.66 |
| Market Price | $11.57 |
| Net Leverage1 | 3.1% |
| Average Market Capitalization 2 | $1,751 million |
| Weighted Average P/E Ratio 3,4 | 27.9x |
| Weighted Average P/B Ratio 3 | 3.0x |
| Active Share 5 | 97% |
| 1 | Net leverage is the percentage, in excess of 100%, of the total value of equity type investments, divided by net assets. |
| 2 | Geometric Average. This weighted calculation uses each portfolio holding’s market cap in a way designed to not skew the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify the portfolio’s center, which Royce believes offers a more accurate measure of average market cap than a simple mean or median. |
| 3 | Harmonic Average. This weighted calculation evaluates a portfolio as if it were a single stock and measures it overall. It compares the total market value of the portfolio to the portfolio’s share in the earnings or book value, as the case may be, of its underlying stocks. |
| 4 | The Fund’s P/E ratio calculation excludes companies with zero or negative earnings (14% of portfolio holdings as of 6/30/20). |
| 5 | Active Share is the sum of the absolute values of the different weightings of each holding in the Fund versus each holding in the benchmark, divided by two. |
Important Performance and Risk Information
All performance information reflects past performance, is presented on a total return basis, net of the Fund’s investment advisory fee, and reflects the reinvestment of distributions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than performance quoted. Returns as of the most recent month-end may be obtained at www.royceinvest.com. The market price of the Fund’s shares will fluctuate, so that shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when sold. The Fund invests primarily in securities of small- and mid-cap companies, which may involve considerably more risk than investments in securities of larger-cap companies. The Fund’s broadly diversified portfolio does not ensure a profit or guarantee against loss. From time to time, the Fund may invest a significant portion of its net assets in foreign securities, which may involve political, economic, currency and other risks not encountered in U.S. investments. Regarding the “Top Contributors” and “Top Detractors” tables shown above, the sum of all contributors to, and all detractors from, performance for all securities in the portfolio would approximate the Fund’s year-to-date performance for 2020.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 9
Royce Global Value Trust
| Schedule of Investments | | | | | | |
| Common Stocks – 103.1% | | | | | | | | |
| | | | SHARES | | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ARGENTINA – 0.2% | | | | | | | | |
| †Bioceres Crop Solutions 1 | | | 50,000 | | | $ | 303,000 | |
| Total (Cost $288,504) | | | | | | | 303,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| AUSTRALIA – 4.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Bravura Solutions | | | 114,200 | | | | 358,321 | |
| Cochlear | | | 7,900 | | | | 1,030,792 | |
| IPH | | | 549,447 | | | | 2,835,790 | |
| Steadfast Group | | | 206,000 | | | | 478,354 | |
| Technology One | | | 147,200 | | | | 895,065 | |
| Total (Cost $4,727,804) | | | | | | | 5,598,322 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| BERMUDA – 0.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Assured Guaranty 2 | | | 21,700 | | | | 529,697 | |
| †Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son | | | 19,600 | | | | 478,044 | |
| Total (Cost $1,780,717) | | | | | | | 1,007,741 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| BRAZIL – 1.9% | | | | | | | | |
| B3-Brasil, Bolsa, Balcao | | | 40,100 | | | | 406,228 | |
| †Linx | | | 134,000 | | | | 624,402 | |
| TOTVS | | | 282,185 | | | | 1,201,262 | |
| YDUQS Participacoes | | | 49,400 | | | | 305,678 | |
| Total (Cost $1,965,672) | | | | | | | 2,537,570 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CANADA – 12.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Agnico Eagle Mines 2,3 | | | 10,000 | | | | 640,600 | |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | | | 192,000 | | | | 1,790,454 | |
| Altus Group | | | 33,400 | | | | 1,003,525 | |
| AutoCanada | | | 43,000 | | | | 338,907 | |
| †CAE | | | 46,100 | | | | 747,733 | |
| †Centerra Gold | | | 78,000 | | | | 870,433 | |
| †Descartes Systems Group (The) 1,2 | | | 47,000 | | | | 2,486,300 | |
| FirstService Corporation | | | 11,100 | | | | 1,118,325 | |
| Major Drilling Group International 1 | | | 336,000 | | | | 1,061,756 | |
| Morneau Shepell | | | 46,000 | | | | 1,073,762 | |
| Pan American Silver 2 | | | 31,800 | | | | 966,402 | |
| †Park Lawn | | | 54,000 | | | | 891,780 | |
| Pason Systems | | | 98,500 | | | | 538,354 | |
| People Corporation 1 | | | 39,700 | | | | 264,062 | |
| Sprott | | | 57,260 | | | | 2,057,834 | |
| TMX Group | | | 9,200 | | | | 909,632 | |
| Total (Cost $14,577,245) | | | | | | | 16,759,859 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CHINA – 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| A-Living Services | | | 173,100 | | | | 873,474 | |
| Total (Cost $253,191) | | | | | | | 873,474 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| DENMARK – 1.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Chr. Hansen Holding | | | 6,800 | | | | 700,949 | |
| SimCorp | | | 6,600 | | | | 711,067 | |
| Total (Cost $1,147,985) | | | | | | | 1,412,016 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| FRANCE – 2.0% | | | | | | | | |
| Esker | | | 7,900 | | | | 1,039,600 | |
| Gaztransport Et Technigaz | | | 11,200 | | | | 852,691 | |
| Interparfums 1 | | | 17,600 | | | | 786,685 | |
| Total (Cost $2,066,998) | | | | | | | 2,678,976 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| GERMANY – 5.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Amadeus Fire 1 | | | 15,400 | | | | 1,909,120 | |
| Carl Zeiss Meditec 1 | | | 11,700 | | | | 1,140,025 | |
| CompuGroup Medical | | | 12,300 | | | | 967,204 | |
| †Deutsche Konsum REIT | | | 36,500 | | | | 724,805 | |
| Medios 1 | | | 20,900 | | | | 895,112 | |
| MorphoSys 1 | | | 6,000 | | | | 757,892 | |
| PATRIZIA | | | 18,200 | | | | 440,583 | |
| STRATEC | | | 7,100 | | | | 693,728 | |
| Total (Cost $5,449,902) | | | | | | | 7,528,469 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| GREECE – 0.9% | | | | | | | | |
| Mytilineos | | | 32,700 | | | | 268,664 | |
| Sarantis | | | 102,800 | | | | 946,135 | |
| Total (Cost $1,304,554) | | | | | | | 1,214,799 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ICELAND – 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| †Ossur | | | 138,400 | | | | 917,677 | |
| Total (Cost $913,879) | | | | | | | 917,677 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INDIA – 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| AIA Engineering | | | 41,600 | | | | 886,255 | |
| Total (Cost $932,730) | | | | | | | 886,255 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INDONESIA – 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Selamat Sempurna | | | 5,500,000 | | | | 405,029 | |
| Total (Cost $513,090) | | | | | | | 405,029 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ISLE OF MAN – 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| †Strix Group | | | 175,700 | | | | 419,516 | |
| Total (Cost $381,982) | | | | | | | 419,516 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ISRAEL – 3.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | | | 27,600 | | | | 1,330,044 | |
| Tel Aviv Stock Exchange | | | 819,400 | | | | 3,674,127 | |
| Total (Cost $2,507,971) | | | | | | | 5,004,171 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ITALY – 1.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Avio 1 | | | 21,800 | | | | 373,312 | |
| Carel Industries | | | 59,100 | | | | 1,084,099 | |
| DiaSorin | | | 1,800 | | | | 344,319 | |
| Gruppo MutuiOnline | | | 12,800 | | | | 273,315 | |
| Total (Cost $1,342,945) | | | | | | | 2,075,045 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| JAPAN – 10.2% | | | | | | | | �� |
| Advantest Corporation | | | 19,800 | | | | 1,124,657 | |
| As One | | | 9,500 | | | | 1,037,560 | |
| Benefit One | | | 48,100 | | | | 966,111 | |
| Daifuku | | | 13,900 | | | | 1,214,406 | |
| eGuarantee | | | 27,000 | | | | 637,635 | |
| Fukui Computer Holdings | | | 37,800 | | | | 964,814 | |
| Harmonic Drive Systems | | | 15,200 | | | | 833,451 | |
| Meitec Corporation | | | 20,000 | | | | 962,803 | |
| Morningstar Japan KK | | | 262,200 | | | | 965,537 | |
| Nihon M&A Center | | | 13,600 | | | | 614,331 | |
| NSD | | | 56,600 | | | | 965,266 | |
| Prestige International | | | 112,200 | | | | 842,992 | |
| SCSK | | | 8,300 | | | | 403,306 | |
| TechnoPro Holdings | | | 6,500 | | | | 376,326 | |
| TKC Corporation | | | 23,400 | | | | 1,238,780 | |
| Zenkoku Hosho | | | 10,000 | | | | 375,820 | |
| Total (Cost $10,098,290) | | | | | | | 13,523,795 | |
| 10 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
June 30, 2020 (unaudited)
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| | | | SHARES | | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| LUXEMBOURG – 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| †Eurofins Scientific 1 | | | 700 | | | $ | 438,833 | |
| Total (Cost $356,784) | | | | | | | 438,833 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| MEXICO – 0.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Becle | | | 253,900 | | | | 488,038 | |
| Total (Cost $427,664) | | | | | | | 488,038 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| NETHERLANDS – 1.5% | | | | | | | | |
| IMCD | | | 21,100 | | | | 1,980,872 | |
| Total (Cost $1,486,822) | | | | | | | 1,980,872 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| NEW ZEALAND – 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Fisher & Paykel Healthcare | | | 43,500 | | | | 1,005,942 | |
| Total (Cost $311,343) | | | | | | | 1,005,942 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| SINGAPORE – 1.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Midas Holdings 1,4 | | | 400,000 | | | | 0 | |
| XP Power 1 | | | 53,400 | | | | 2,356,625 | |
| Total (Cost $1,734,782) | | | | | | | 2,356,625 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| SOUTH AFRICA – 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Transaction Capital 1 | | | 365,700 | | | | 391,823 | |
| Total (Cost $460,480) | | | | | | | 391,823 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| SWEDEN – 6.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Bravida Holding 1 | | | 105,100 | | | | 1,003,071 | |
| BTS Group 1 | | | 27,400 | | | | 574,449 | |
| Bufab 1 | | | 86,600 | | | | 910,037 | |
| Dometic Group 1 | | | 60,400 | | | | 540,699 | |
| Hexpol 1 | | | 60,800 | | | | 449,601 | |
| †Karnov Group | | | 213,600 | | | | 1,271,669 | |
| Lagercrantz Group | | | 57,300 | | | | 887,258 | |
| Loomis Cl. B 1 | | | 15,000 | | | | 357,865 | |
| Mycronic | | | 93,700 | | | | 1,764,658 | |
| OEM International Cl. B 1 | | | 16,500 | | | | 424,748 | |
| Total (Cost $7,161,353) | | | | | | | 8,184,055 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| SWITZERLAND – 3.9% | | | | | | | | |
| Forbo Holding | | | 300 | | | | 434,002 | |
| Inficon Holding | | | 900 | | | | 697,308 | |
| Kardex Holding | | | 8,500 | | | | 1,548,150 | |
| LEM Holding | | | 450 | | | | 664,641 | |
| VAT Group | | | 5,100 | | | | 929,812 | |
| VZ Holding | | | 12,600 | | | | 940,867 | |
| Total (Cost $3,434,320) | | | | | | | 5,214,780 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| UNITED KINGDOM – 16.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Abcam | | | 50,600 | | | | 835,030 | |
| Ashmore Group | | | 315,000 | | | | 1,625,905 | |
| CentralNic Group1 | | | 730,300 | | | | 784,790 | |
| Clarkson 1 | | | 15,600 | | | | 435,000 | |
| Computacenter 1 | | | 21,500 | | | | 436,695 | |
| Diploma 1 | | | 40,500 | | | | 903,702 | |
| DiscoverIE Group 1 | | | 173,300 | | | | 1,099,020 | |
| Eckoh | | | 677,100 | | | | 528,422 | |
| FDM Group Holdings 1 | | | 90,100 | | | | 1,014,916 | |
| Ferroglobe (Warranty Insurance Trust) 1,4 | | | 41,100 | | | | 0 | |
| †Halma | | | 38,300 | | | | 1,091,492 | |
| †HomeServe | | | 71,600 | | | | 1,156,555 | |
| †Ibstock 1 | | | 181,300 | | | | 403,570 | |
| Keystone Law Group 1 | | | 171,500 | | | | 1,041,127 | |
| †Learning Technologies Group 1 | | | 693,800 | | | | 1,056,990 | |
| Marlowe 1 | | | 218,800 | | | | 1,366,207 | |
| Midwich Group 1 | | | 84,900 | | | | 421,489 | |
| Mortgage Advice Bureau Holdings | | | 119,300 | | | | 890,953 | |
| Polypipe Group 1 | | | 202,100 | | | | 1,082,236 | |
| Porvair | | | 71,100 | | | | 491,784 | |
| Restore 1 | | | 203,700 | | | | 909,912 | |
| RWS Holdings | | | 88,800 | | | | 658,669 | |
| †Softcat 1 | | | 34,800 | | | | 469,609 | |
| Spirax-Sarco Engineering | | | 8,700 | | | | 1,074,119 | |
| SThree 1 | | | 422,900 | | | | 1,416,981 | |
| †YouGov | | | 30,000 | | | | 286,003 | |
| Total (Cost $19,912,384) | | | | | | | 21,481,176 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| UNITED STATES – 24.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Air Lease Cl. A 2 | | | 30,330 | | | | 888,366 | |
| †APi Group 1 | | | 101,500 | | | | 1,233,225 | |
| †BOK Financial 2,3 | | | 12,700 | | | | 716,788 | |
| Brooks Automation 2 | | | 10,800 | | | | 477,792 | |
| Cabot Microelectronics 2 | | | 10,300 | | | | 1,437,262 | |
| Chicken Soup For The Soul Entertainment Cl. A 1 | | | 20,000 | | | | 138,200 | |
| CIRCOR International 1,2 | | | 56,700 | | | | 1,444,716 | |
| Cognex Corporation 2 | | | 10,748 | | | | 641,870 | |
| Coherent 1,2 | | | 9,100 | | | | 1,191,918 | |
| Colfax Corporation 1,2,3 | | | 42,900 | | | | 1,196,910 | |
| Diodes 1,2 | | | 20,500 | | | | 1,039,350 | |
| †ESCO Technologies 2 | | | 11,000 | | | | 929,830 | |
| †FARO Technologies 1,2,3 | | | 14,500 | | | | 777,200 | |
| Helios Technologies 2 | | | 24,639 | | | | 917,803 | |
| Innospec 2,3 | | | 12,457 | | | | 962,303 | |
| Kadant 2 | | | 7,800 | | | | 777,348 | |
| KBR 2,3 | | | 64,600 | | | | 1,456,730 | |
| Kirby Corporation 1,2 | | | 21,000 | | | | 1,124,760 | |
| Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | | | 43,000 | | | | 331,960 | |
| Lindsay Corporation 2,3 | | | 6,850 | | | | 631,638 | |
| †Manhattan Associates 1,2,3 | | | 12,400 | | | | 1,168,080 | |
| Mesa Laboratories 2 | | | 4,300 | | | | 932,240 | |
| Morningstar 2 | | | 9,400 | | | | 1,325,118 | |
| National Instruments 2 | | | 15,200 | | | | 588,392 | |
| Onto Innovation 1,2 | | | 31,145 | | | | 1,060,176 | |
| PAR Technology 1,2 | | | 38,391 | | | | 1,149,043 | |
| †ProAssurance Corporation | | | 75,000 | | | | 1,085,250 | |
| Quaker Chemical 2,3 | | | 9,969 | | | | 1,850,745 | |
| SEACOR Holdings 1,2 | | | 10,100 | | | | 286,032 | |
| SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | | | 20,309 | | | | 51,788 | |
| SEI Investments 2 | | | 35,700 | | | | 1,962,786 | |
| Tennant Company 2 | | | 11,600 | | | | 754,116 | |
| Upland Software 1,2 | | | 33,100 | | | | 1,150,556 | |
| Webster Financial 2 | | | 19,700 | | | | 563,617 | |
| Total (Cost $28,394,183) | | | | | | | 32,243,908 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| URUGUAY – 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Arcos Dorados Holdings Cl. A 2 | | | 46,800 | | | | 196,092 | |
| Total (Cost $351,426) | | | | | | | 196,092 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $114,285,000) | | | | | | | 137,127,858 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 11 |
| Royce Global Value Trust | June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | |
| REPURCHASE AGREEMENT– 2.9% | | | | |
| Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, 0.00% dated 6/30/20, due 7/1/20, maturity value $3,841,000 (collateralized by obligations of various U.S. Government Agencies, 2.125% due 11/30/24, valued at $3,917,908) |
| (Cost $3,841,000) | | $ | 3,841,000 | |
| | | | | |
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 106.0% | | | | |
| (Cost $118,126,000) | | | 140,968,858 | |
| | | | | |
| LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (6.0)% | | | (7,987,569 | ) |
| | | | | |
| NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | $ | 132,981,289 | |
| † | New additions in 2020. |
| 1 | Non-income producing. |
| 2 | All or a portion of these securities were pledged as collateral in connection with the Fund’s revolving credit agreement at June 30, 2020. Total market value of pledged securities at June 30, 2020, was $22,357,060. |
| 3 | At June 30, 2020, a portion of these securities were rehypothecated in connection with the Fund’s revolving credit agreement in the aggregate amount of $5,833,032. |
| 4 | Securities for which market quotations are not readily available represent 0.0% of net assets. These securities have been valued at their fair value under procedures approved by the Fund’s Board of Directors. These securities are defined as Level 3 securities due to the use of significant unobservable inputs in the determination of fair value. See Notes to Financial Statements. |
Securities of Global/International Funds are categorized by the country of their headquarters.
Bold indicates the Fund’s 20 largest equity holdings in terms of June 30, 2020, market value.
TAX INFORMATION: The cost of total investments for Federal income tax purposes was $118,149,668. At June 30, 2020, net unrealized appreciation for all securities was $22,819,190 consisting of aggregate gross unrealized appreciation of $29,901,726 and aggregate gross unrealized depreciation of $7,082,536. The primary cause of the difference between book and tax basis cost is the timing of the recognition of losses on securities sold.
| 12 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
| Royce Global Value Trust | June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
| ASSETS: | | | |
| Investments at value | | $ | 137,127,858 | |
| Repurchase agreements (at cost and value) | | | 3,841,000 | |
| Cash | | | 769 | |
| Foreign currency (cost $2,256) | | | 2,249 | |
| Receivable for dividends | | | 251,864 | |
| Prepaid expenses and other assets | | | 18,201 | |
| Total Assets | | | 141,241,941 | |
| LIABILITIES: | | | | |
| Revolving credit agreement | | | 8,000,000 | |
| Payable for investments purchased | | | 86,004 | |
| Payable for investment advisory fee | | | 108,555 | |
| Payable for directors' fees | | | 6,251 | |
| Payable for interest expense | | | 8,404 | |
| Accrued expenses | | | 51,326 | |
| Deferred capital gains tax | | | 112 | |
| Total Liabilities | | | 8,260,652 | |
| Net Assets | | $ | 132,981,289 | |
| ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS: | | | | |
| Paid-in capital - $0.001 par value per share; 10,503,468 shares outstanding (150,000,000 shares authorized) | | $ | 118,349,286 | |
| Total distributable earnings (loss) | | | 14,632,003 | |
| Net Assets (net asset value per share - $12.66) | | $ | 132,981,289 | |
| Investments at identified cost | | $ | 114,285,000 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 13 |
| Royce Global Value Trust | Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Operations
| INVESTMENT INCOME: | | | |
| INCOME: | | | |
| Dividends | | $ | 952,321 | |
| Foreign withholding tax | | | (80,228 | ) |
| Interest | | | 5,005 | |
| Rehypothecation income | | | 69 | |
| Total income | | | 877,167 | |
| EXPENSES: | | | | |
| Investment advisory fees | | | 623,773 | |
| Interest expense | | | 81,814 | |
| Custody and transfer agent fees | | | 51,270 | |
| Stockholder reports | | | 37,689 | |
| Administrative and office facilities | | | 36,735 | |
| Professional fees | | | 20,433 | |
| Directors' fees | | | 11,606 | |
| Other expenses | | | 13,591 | |
| Total expenses | | | 876,911 | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | 256 | |
| REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY: | | | | |
| NET REALIZED GAIN (LOSS): | | | | |
| Investments | | | (2,817,700 | ) |
| Foreign currency transactions | | | (78,609 | ) |
| NET CHANGE IN UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION): | | | | |
| Investments | | | (6,936,848 | ) |
| Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency | | | 3,969 | |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | (9,829,188 | ) |
| NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS | | $ | (9,828,932 | ) |
| 14 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Royce Global Value Trust
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
| | | SIX MONTHS ENDED
6/30/20
(UNAUDITED) | | | YEAR ENDED 12/31/19 | |
| | | | | | | |
| INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: | | | | | | | | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | $ | 256 | | | $ | 584,483 | |
| Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | (2,896,309 | ) | | | 5,430,859 | |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and foreign currency | | | (6,932,879 | ) | | | 27,923,370 | |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | | (9,828,932 | ) | | | 33,938,712 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS: Total distributable earnings | | | – | | | | (628,921 | ) |
| Total distributions | | | – | | | | (628,921 | ) |
CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS: Reinvestment of distributions | | | – | | | | 246,799 | |
| Total capital stock transactions | | | – | | | | 246,799 | |
| Net Increase (Decrease) In Net Assets | | | (9,828,932 | ) | | | 33,556,590 | |
| NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | |
| Beginning of period | | | 142,810,221 | | | | 109,253,631 | |
| End of period | | $ | 132,981,289 | | | $ | 142,810,221 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 15 |
| Royce Global Value Trust | Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Cash Flows
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | | | |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | $ | (9,828,932 | ) |
| Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations to net cash provided by operating activities: | | | | |
| Purchases of long-term investments | | | (54,497,495 | ) |
| Proceeds from sales and maturities of long-term investments | | | 50,072,127 | |
| Net purchases, sales and maturities of short-term investments | | | 4,512,000 | |
| Net (increase) decrease in dividends and interest receivable and other assets | | | 29,989 | |
| Net increase (decrease) in interest expense payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities | | | (39,716 | ) |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | | | 6,936,848 | |
| Net realized gain (loss) on investments | | | 2,817,700 | |
| Net cash provided by operating activities | | | 2,521 | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | | | | |
| Distributions | | | – | |
| Reinvestment of distributions | | | – | |
| Net cash used for financing activities | | | – | |
| INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH: | | | 2,521 | |
| Cash and foreign currency at beginning of period | | | 497 | |
| Cash and foreign currency at end of period | | $ | 3,018 | |
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund paid $93,136 in interest expense.
| 16 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Royce Global Value Trust
Financial Highlights
This table is presented to show selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period, and to assist stockholders in evaluating the Fund’s performance for the periods presented.
| | | SIX MONTHS | | | YEARS ENDED | |
| | | ENDED 6/30/20
(UNAUDITED) | | | 12/31/19 | | | 12/31/18 | | | 12/31/17 | | | 12/31/16 | | | 12/31/15 | |
| Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | | $ | 13.60 | | | $ | 10.42 | | | $ | 12.48 | | | $ | 9.62 | | | $ | 8.81 | | | $ | 9.25 | |
| INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | 0.00 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 0.04 | | | | 0.02 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 0.10 | |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | (0.94 | ) | | | 3.18 | | | | (2.06 | ) | | | 2.96 | | | | 0.90 | | | | (0.43 | ) |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | | (0.94 | ) | | | 3.24 | | | | (2.02 | ) | | | 2.98 | | | | 0.96 | | | | (0.33 | ) |
| DISTRIBUTIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net investment income | | | – | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.11 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) |
| Net realized gain on investments and foreign currency | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | |
| Total distributions | | | – | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.11 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) |
| CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Effect of reinvestment of distributions by Common Stockholders | | | – | | | | (0.00 | ) | | | (0.00 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| Total capital stock transactions | | | – | | | | (0.00 | ) | | | (0.00 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| Net Asset Value, End of Period | | $ | 12.66 | | | $ | 13.60 | | | $ | 10.42 | | | $ | 12.48 | | | $ | 9.62 | | | $ | 8.81 | |
| Market Value, End of Period | | $ | 11.57 | | | $ | 11.69 | | | $ | 8.88 | | | $ | 10.81 | | | $ | 8.04 | | | $ | 7.45 | |
| TOTAL RETURN:1 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value | | | (6.91 | )%2 | | | 31.20 | % | | | (16.11 | )% | | | 31.07 | % | | | 11.12 | % | | | (3.44 | )% |
| Market Value | | | (1.03 | )%2 | | | 32.33 | % | | | (17.50 | )% | | | 35.96 | % | | | 9.77 | % | | | (6.06 | )% |
| RATIOS BASED ON AVERAGE NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Investment advisory fee expense | | | 1.00 | %3 | | | 1.00 | % | | | 1.25 | % | | | 1.25 | % | | | 1.25 | % | | | 1.25 | % |
| Other operating expenses | | | 0.41 | %3 | | | 0.50 | % | | | 0.49 | % | | | 0.42 | % | | | 0.46 | % | | | 0.43 | % |
| Total expenses (net) | | | 1.41 | %3 | | | 1.50 | % | | | 1.74 | % | | | 1.67 | % | | | 1.71 | % | | | 1.68 | % |
| Expenses excluding interest expense | | | 1.27 | %3 | | | 1.29 | % | | | 1.53 | % | | | 1.52 | % | | | 1.57 | % | | | 1.58 | % |
| Expenses prior to balance credits | | | 1.41 | %3 | | | 1.50 | % | | | 1.74 | % | | | 1.67 | % | | | 1.71 | % | | | 1.68 | % |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | 0.00 | %3 | | | 0.46 | % | | | 0.30 | % | | | 0.21 | % | | | 0.69 | % | | | 1.03 | % |
| SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | | $ | 132,981 | | | $ | 142,810 | | | $ | 109,254 | | | $ | 130,526 | | | $ | 100,228 | | | $ | 91,174 | |
| Portfolio Turnover Rate | | | 39 | % | | | 48 | % | | | 57 | % | | | 34 | % | | | 59 | % | | | 65 | % |
| REVOLVING CREDIT AGREEMENT: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Asset coverage | | | 1762 | % | | | 1885 | % | | | 1466 | % | | | 1732 | % | | | 1353 | % | | | 1240 | % |
| Asset coverage per $1,000 | | | 17,623 | | | | 18,851 | | | | 14,657 | | | | 17,316 | | | | 13,528 | | | | 12,397 | |
| 1 | The Market Value Total Return is calculated assuming a purchase of Common Stock on the opening of the first business day and a sale on the closing of the last business day of each period. Dividends and distributions are assumed for the purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund’s Distribution Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan. Net Asset Value Total Return is calculated on the same basis, except that the Fund’s net asset value is used on the purchase, sale and dividend reinvestment dates instead of market value. |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 17 |
Royce Global Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Royce Global Value Trust, Inc. (the “Fund”), is a diversified closed-end investment company that was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 14, 2011. The Fund commenced operations on October 18, 2013.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The Fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services-Investment Companies.”
Royce & Associates, LP, the Fund’s investment adviser, primarily conducts business using the name Royce Investment Partners (“Royce”).
VALUATION OF INVESTMENTS:
Securities are valued as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on the valuation date. Securities that trade on an exchange, and securities traded on Nasdaq's Electronic Bulletin Board, are valued at their last reported sales price or Nasdaq official closing price taken from the primary market in which each security trades or, if no sale is reported for such day, at their highest bid price. Other over-the-counter securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at their highest bid price, except in the case of some bonds and other fixed income securities which may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates and maturities, using established independent pricing services. The Fund values its non-U.S. dollar denominated securities in U.S. dollars daily at the prevailing foreign currency exchange rates as quoted by a major bank. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at their fair value in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, under procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Directors, and are reported as Level 3 securities. As a general principle, the fair value of a security is the amount which the Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale. However, in light of the judgment involved in fair valuations, there can be no assurance that a fair value assigned to a particular security will be the amount which the Fund might be able to receive upon its current sale. In addition, if, between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, the Fund may fair value the security. The Fund uses an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the U.S. market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by the Fund may differ from quoted or published prices for the same security. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments, as noted above. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels below:
Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2 – other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, foreign securities that may be fair valued and repurchase agreements). The table below includes all Level 2 securities. Any Level 2 securities with values based on quoted prices for similar securities would be noted in the Schedule of Investments.
Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs (including last trade price before trading was suspended, or at a discount thereto for lack of marketability or otherwise, market price information regarding other securities, information received from the company and/or published documents, including SEC filings and financial statements, or other publicly available information).
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of June 30, 2020. For a detailed breakout of common stocks by country, please refer to the Schedule of Investments.
| | LEVEL 1 | LEVEL 2 | LEVEL 3 | TOTAL |
| Common Stocks | $54,866,253 | $82,261,605 | $ 0 | $137,127,858 |
| Repurchase Agreement | – | 3,841,000 | – | 3,841,000 |
Level 3 Reconciliation:
| | BALANCE AS OF 12/31/19 | PURCHASES | SALES | REALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) 1 | BALANCE AS OF 6/30/20 |
| Common Stocks | $ 0 | $ – | $ – | $ – | $ – | $ 0 |
| 1 | The net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in the accompanying Statement of Operations. Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) includes net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) resulting from changes in investment values during the reporting period and the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation (depreciation) when gains or losses are realized. Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions is included in the accompanying Statement of Operations. |
18 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Royce Global Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS:
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that the Fund’s investment adviser has determined are creditworthy. The Fund restricts repurchase agreements to maturities of no more than seven days. Securities pledged as collateral for repurchase agreements, which are held until maturity of the repurchase agreements, are marked-to-market daily and maintained at a value at least equal to the principal amount of the repurchase agreement (including accrued interest). Repurchase agreements could involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the counter-party, including possible delays or restrictions upon the ability of the Fund to dispose of its underlying securities. The remaining contractual maturity of the repurchase agreement held by the Fund at June 30, 2020 is overnight and continuous.
FOREIGN CURRENCY:
Net realized foreign exchange gains or losses arise from sales and maturities of short-term securities, sales of foreign currencies, expiration of currency forward contracts, currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on securities transactions, and the difference between the amounts of dividends, interest, and foreign withholding taxes recorded on the Fund's books and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in the value of assets and liabilities, other than investments in securities at the end of the reporting period, as a result of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
The Fund does not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates on investments from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES:
As a qualified regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent that it distributes substantially all of its taxable income for its fiscal year. The Schedule of Investments includes information regarding income taxes under the caption “Tax Information.”
The Fund pays any dividends and capital gain distributions annually in December. Because federal income tax regulations differ from generally accepted accounting principles, income and capital gain distributions determined in accordance with tax regulations may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements.
CAPITAL GAINS TAXES:
The Fund is subject to a tax imposed on short-term capital gains on securities of issuers domiciled in certain countries. The Fund records an estimated deferred tax liability for gains in these securities that have been held for less than one year. This amount, if any, is reported as deferred capital gains tax in the accompanying Statement of Assets and Liabilities, assuming those positions were disposed of at the end of the period.
INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS AND RELATED INVESTMENT INCOME:
Investment transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividend income is recorded at the fair market value of the securities received. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis. Premiums and discounts on debt securities are amortized using the effective yield-to-maturity method. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are determined on the basis of identified cost for book and tax purposes.
EXPENSES:
The Fund incurs direct and indirect expenses. Expenses directly attributable to the Fund are charged to the Fund’s operations, while expenses applicable to more than one of the Royce Funds are allocated equitably. Certain personnel, occupancy costs and other administrative expenses related to the Funds are allocated by Royce under an administration agreement and are included in administrative and office facilities and professional fees.
COMPENSATING BALANCE CREDITS:
The Fund has an arrangement with its custodian bank, whereby a portion of the custodian's fee is paid indirectly by credits earned on the Fund's cash on deposit with the bank. This deposit arrangement is an alternative to purchasing overnight investments. Conversely, the Fund pays interest to the custodian on any cash overdrafts, to the extent they are not offset by credits earned on positive cash balances.
Capital Stock:
The Fund issued 21,442 shares of Common Stock as reinvestment of distributions for the year ended December 31, 2019.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 19
Royce Global Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Borrowings:
The Fund is party to a revolving credit agreement (the credit agreement) with BNP Paribas Prime Brokerage International, Limited (BNPPI). The Fund pays a commitment fee of 0.50% per annum on the unused portion of the then-current maximum amount that may be borrowed by the Fund under the credit agreement. The credit agreement has a 179-day rolling term that resets daily. The Fund is required to pledge portfolio securities as collateral in an amount up to two times the loan balance outstanding, or as otherwise required by applicable regulatory standards, and has granted a security interest in the securities pledged to, and in favor of, BNPPI as security for the loan balance outstanding. If the Fund fails to meet certain requirements, or comply with other financial covenants set forth in the credit agreement, the Fund may be required to repay immediately, in part or in full, the loan balance outstanding under the credit agreement, which may necessitate the sale of portfolio securities at potentially inopportune times. BNPPI may terminate the credit agreement upon certain ratings downgrades of its corporate parent, which would result in the Fund’s entire loan balance becoming immediately due and payable. The occurrence of such ratings downgrades may necessitate the sale of portfolio securities at potentially inopportune times. BNPPI may also terminate the credit agreement upon sixty (60) calendar days’ prior written notice to the Fund in the event the Fund’s net asset value per share as of the close of business on the last business day of any calendar month declines by thirty-five percent (35%) or more from the Fund’s net asset value per share as of the close of business on the last business day of the immediately preceding calendar month.
The credit agreement also permits, subject to certain conditions, BNPPI to rehypothecate portfolio securities pledged by the Fund up to the amount of the loan balance outstanding. The Fund continues to receive payments in lieu of dividends and interest on rehypothecated securities. The Fund also has the right under the credit agreement to recall the rehypothecated securities from BNPPI on demand. If BNPPI fails to deliver the recalled security in a timely manner, the Fund is compensated by BNPPI for any fees or losses related to the failed delivery or, in the event a recalled security is not returned by BNPPI, the Fund, upon notice to BNPPI, may reduce the loan balance outstanding by the value of the recalled security failed to be returned. The Fund receives a portion of the fees earned by BNPPI in connection with the rehypothecation of portfolio securities.
The current maximum amount the Fund may borrow under the credit agreement is $8,000,000. The Fund has the right to reduce the maximum amount it can borrow under the credit agreement upon one (1) business day’s prior written notice to BNPPI. In addition, the Fund and BNPPI may agree to increase the maximum amount the Fund can borrow under the credit agreement, which amount may not exceed $15,000,000.
As of June 30, 2020, the Fund has outstanding borrowings of $8,000,000. During the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund borrowed an average daily balance of $8,000,000 at a weighted average borrowing cost of 2.02%. The maximum amount outstanding during the six months ended June 30, 2020, was $8,000,000. As of June 30, 2020, the aggregate value of rehypothecated securities was $5,833,032. During the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund earned $69 in fees from rehypothecated securities.
Investment Advisory Agreement:
The investment advisory agreement between Royce and the Fund provides for fees to be paid at an annual rate of 1.00% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund expensed Royce investment advisory fees totaling $623,773.
Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities:
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the costs of purchases and proceeds from sales of investment securities, other than short-term securities, amounted to $53,058,216 and $49,183,118, respectively.
Cross trades were executed by the Fund pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act. Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which Royce serves as investment adviser. The Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer reviews such transactions each quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7, and reports the results of her review to the Board of Directors. Cross trades for the six months ended June 30, 2020, were as follows:
| COSTS OF PURCHASES | PROCEEDS FROM SALES | REALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | |
| $402,067 | $1,898,723 | $(251,076) | |
20 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Royce Global Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Subsequent Events:
On July 31, 2020, Franklin Resources, Inc. (“Franklin Resources”) acquired Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”) in an all-cash transaction. Royce was an indirect, majority-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason prior to the transaction. As a result of the transaction, Royce, the investment adviser to the Fund, became an indirect, majority-owned subsidiary of Franklin Resources. Under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), consummation of the transaction automatically terminated the investment advisory agreement that was in place for the Fund prior to the transaction (referred to herein as the “Prior Agreement”). Because the Fund’s stockholders had not yet approved a new investment advisory agreement in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act prior to the completion of the transaction, an interim investment advisory agreement between Royce and the Fund (the “Interim Agreement”) went into effect upon the closing of the transaction. The Interim Agreement, which was approved by the Board of Directors of the Fund (the “Board”), allows Royce to continue providing services to the Fund while stockholder approval of a new investment advisory agreement continues to be sought.
The terms of the Interim Agreement are substantially identical to those of the Prior Agreement, except for the term and escrow provisions described below. The Interim Agreement will continue in effect for a term ending on the earlier of 150 days from the closing of the transaction (the “150-day period”) or when the Fund’s stockholders approve a new investment advisory agreement. Pursuant to Rule 15a-4 under the 1940 Act, compensation earned by Royce under the Interim Agreement will be held in an interest-bearing escrow account. If the Fund’s stockholders approve a new investment advisory agreement prior to the end of the 150-day period, the amount held in the escrow account under the Interim Agreement will be paid to Royce. If the Fund’s stockholders do not approve a new investment advisory agreement prior to the end of the 150-day period, the Board will consider what further action to take consistent with its duties under applicable law, and Royce will be paid the lesser of its costs incurred in performing its services under the Interim Agreement or the total amount of the escrow account, plus interest earned. Thereafter, the Board would either negotiate a new investment advisory agreement with an advisory organization selected by the Board or make other appropriate arrangements.
Royce will continue to operate as an independent investment organization with its own brand after completion of the transaction. There are no changes planned to the management of the organization or investment teams at Royce as a result of the transaction.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 21
MANAGERS’ DISCUSSION (UNAUDITED)
Royce Micro-Cap Trust (RMT)
Chuck Royce
Brendan Hartmann, Chris Flynn,
Jim Stoeffel
FUND PERFORMANCE
Royce Micro-Cap Trust (“RMT”) fell 6.2% on an NAV (net asset value) basis and declined 11.0% based on market price compared to respective losses of 13.0% and 11.2% for RMT’s unleveraged benchmarks, the Russell Microcap and Russell 2000 Indexes, for the same period. The Fund also outpaced the Russell Microcap on an NAV and market price basis for the one-, three-, five-, 10-, 20-year, and since inception (12/14/93) periods ended 6/30/20.
WHAT WORKED… AND WHAT DIDN’T
Only four of the 11 equity sectors in which the Fund held investments finished 2020’s first half in the black. Energy detracted most from performance by a large margin, followed by Industrials and Consumer Discretionary. Health Care made the most sizable positive impact, and Materials and Information Technology were also additive to results. Two of the Fund’s worst performing industries came from Energy: energy equipment & services and oil, gas & consumable fuels. Machinery (Industrials) also hampered performance. Conversely, two of the best performing industries came from Health Care: biotechnology and health care technology. Sandwiched in the middle to round out the top three was aerospace & defense (Industrials).
The worst performing position in 2020’s first half was Houston-based Bristow Group, which provides helicopter transportation services primarily to the offshore oil and gas industry. Demand for its helicopters has slackened as lower oil and gas prices have curtailed drilling and exploration. Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, which provides expedition cruising and adventure travel services, also detracted as its industry continued to be hit especially hard by substantial restrictions on travel created by the coronavirus, which included the firm’s decision in March to cease all operations until it would again be safe for its guests and crews. SEACOR Marine Holdings provides marine and support transportation services to offshore oil and natural gas and wind farm facilities worldwide. When reporting fiscal first-quarter results in May, the company said that it expects a deeper impact on revenues through the rest of the year as a result of COVID-19 and reduced activity from its oil and gas customers due to lower commodity prices.
Virgin Galactic Holdings was the top performing position for the year-to-date period ended 6/30/20. The company develops commercial spacecrafts and aims to provide suborbital spaceflights to space tourists and suborbital launches for space science missions. Though still not profitable, Virgin Galactic signed a Space Act Agreement with NASA in early May to produce a supersonic aircraft for non-military applications, which we think bodes well for the company. Arcturus Therapeutics Holdings is a biotech company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapeutics for rare diseases with a focus on RNA. The stock surged when the company announced it was working on a vaccine for the coronavirus. Simulations Plus develops absorption, metabolism, distribution, excretion, and toxicity modeling and simulation software for multiple industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, and food ingredients. The company reported that 1Q20 organic revenues grew by 22%, its third consecutive quarter of growth of more than 20%, which led to increased investor optimism about its ongoing prospects.
Relative to the Russell 2000 Index, performance was driven by stock selection, though sector allocation was also additive. Financials was the top performing sector by a large margin, with results driven by savvy stock selection and, to a lesser degree, our lower weighting. Stock picks and lower exposure to Real Estate were also additive to performance, while stock selection drove positive performance in Materials. Conversely, our overexposure to Energy hampered relative results. Our lower weighting and ineffective stock picks also hurt performance in Health Care and Consumer Discretionary.
| | | | | |
| | Top Contributors to Performance | | Top Detractors from Performance | |
| | Year-to-Date Through 6/30/20 (%)1 | | | Year-to-Date Through 6/30/20 (%)2 | |
| | | | | | |
| | Virgin Galactic Holdings | 1.48 | | Bristow Group | -0.77 | |
| | Arcturus Therapeutics Holdings | 1.23 | | Lindblad Expeditions Holdings | -0.77 | |
| | Simulations Plus | 0.95 | | SEACOR Marine Holdings | -0.74 | |
| | Sandstorm Gold | 0.82 | | Computer Modelling Group | -0.58 | |
| | Sprott | 0.80 | | Heritage-Crystal Clean | -0.50 | |
| | 1 Includes dividends | | | 2 Net of dividends | | |
| | | | | | | |
CURRENT POSITIONING AND OUTLOOK
We are seeking to take advantage of two dynamics in the current market that we believe play to the strengths of active management: high volatility and short-term thinking. While uncertainty about the near-term outlook is real, we expect both the economy and corporate profits to rebound beyond the next several quarters. Our portfolio positioning is still most heavily weighted in cyclical areas, specifically in Industrials and Information Technology. In the former sector, we have several machinery companies while in Information Technology, our largest weightings are in the semiconductors & semiconductor equipment group and the electronic equipment, instruments & components industry. We also maintained a sizable exposure to capital markets stocks, which are part of Financials, and health care equipment & supplies. We are optimistic about the prospects for micro-cap stocks over the intermediate term, particularly those companies with cyclical exposure and/or solid industry positions and better balance sheets. These are the stocks with which we have sought to populate the portfolio.
22 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
| PERFORMANCE AND PORTFOLIO REVIEW (UNAUDITED) | SYMBOLS MARKET PRICE RMT NAV XOTCX |
Performance
Average Annual Total Return (%) Through 6/30/20
| | JAN-JUN 20201 | 1-YR | 3-YR | 5-YR | 10-YR | 15-YR | 20-YR | 25-YR | SINCE INCEPTION
(12/14/93) |
| RMT (NAV) | -6.21 | 0.80 | 4.08 | 5.27 | 10.53 | 7.25 | 8.91 | 9.95 | 10.06 |
1 Not Annualized
Market Price Performance History Since Inception (12/14/93)
Cumulative Performance of Investment1
| | 1-YR | 5-YR | 10-YR | 15-YR | 20-YR | SINCE INCEPTION (12/14/93) |
| RMT | -3.9% | 27.0% | 173.2% | 133.9% | 463.9% | 939.3% |
| 1 | Reflects the cumulative performance experience of a continuous common stockholder who purchased one share at inception ($7.50 IPO), reinvested all distributions and fully participated in the primary subscription of the Fund’s 1994 rights offering. |
| 2 | Reflects the actual month-end market price movement of one share as it has traded on NYSE and, prior to 12/1/03, on the Nasdaq. |
Morningstar Style Map™ As of 6/30/20
The Morningstar Style Map is the Morningstar Style Box™ with the center 75% of fund holdings plotted as the Morningstar Ownership Zone™. The Morningstar Style Box is designed to reveal a fund’s investment strategy. The Morningstar Ownership Zone provides detail about a portfolio’s investment style by showing the range of stock sizes and styles. The Ownership Zone is derived by plotting each stock in the portfolio within the proprietary Morningstar Style Box. Over time, the shape and location of a fund’s ownership zone may vary. See page 66 for additional information.
| Top 10 Positions | |
| % of Net Assets | |
| | |
| Mesa Laboratories | 3.1 |
| PAR Technology | 2.5 |
| Sandstorm Gold | 2.1 |
| nLIGHT | 2.0 |
| CIRCOR International | 1.9 |
| Sprott | 1.7 |
| Simulations Plus | 1.6 |
| Zealand Pharma | 1.4 |
| Upland Software | 1.4 |
| Real Matters | 1.3 |
| Portfolio Sector Breakdown | |
| % of Net Assets | |
| | |
| Information Technology | 22.2 |
| Industrials | 20.6 |
| Health Care | 17.4 |
| Financials | 12.3 |
| Consumer Discretionary | 9.6 |
| Materials | 6.6 |
| Energy | 5.8 |
| Real Estate | 3.9 |
| Consumer Staples | 2.3 |
| Communication Services | 1.8 |
| Utilities | 0.4 |
| Outstanding Line of Credit, Net of Cash and Cash Equivalents | -2.9 |
Calendar Year Total Returns (%)
| YEAR | RMT |
| 2019 | 22.4 |
| 2018 | -11.6 |
| 2017 | 17.7 |
| 2016 | 22.0 |
| 2015 | -11.7 |
| 2014 | 3.5 |
| 2013 | 44.5 |
| 2012 | 17.3 |
| 2011 | -7.7 |
| 2010 | 28.5 |
| 2009 | 46.5 |
| 2008 | -45.5 |
| 2007 | 0.6 |
| 2006 | 22.5 |
| 2005 | 6.8 |
Portfolio Diagnostics
| Fund Net Assets | $369 million |
| Number of Holdings | 324 |
| Turnover Rate | 11% |
| Net Asset Value | $8.56 |
| Market Price | $7.20 |
| Net Leverage1 | 2.9% |
| Average Market Capitalization 2 | $505 million |
| Weighted Average P/B Ratio 3 | 2.1x |
| Active Share 4 | 95% |
| U.S. Investments (% of Net Assets) | 79.0% |
| Non-U.S. Investments (% of Net Assets) | 23.9% |
| 1 | Net leverage is the percentage, in excess of 100%, of the total value of equity type investments, divided by net assets. |
| 2 | Geometric Average. This weighted calculation uses each portfolio holding’s market cap in a way designed to not skew the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify the portfolio’s center, which Royce believes offers a more accurate measure of average market cap than a simple mean or median. |
| 3 | Harmonic Average. This weighted calculation evaluates a portfolio as if it were a single stock and measures it overall. It compares the total market value of the portfolio to the portfolio’s share in the earnings or book value, as the case may be, of its underlying stocks. |
| 4 | Active Share is the sum of the absolute values of the different weightings of each holding in the Fund versus each holding in the benchmark, divided by two. |
Important Performance and Risk Information
All performance information reflects past performance, is presented on a total return basis, net of the Fund’s investment advisory fee, and reflects the reinvestment of distributions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than performance quoted. Returns as of the most recent month-end may be obtained at www.royceinvest.com. Certain immaterial adjustments were made to the net assets of Royce Micro-Cap Trust at 6/30/19 for financial reporting purposes, and as a result the net asset value originally calculated on that date and the total return based on that net asset value differs from the adjusted net asset value and total return reported in the Financial Highlights. The market price of the Fund’s shares will fluctuate, so that shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when sold. The Fund normally invests in micro-cap companies, which may involve considerably more risk than investments in securities of larger-cap companies. The Fund’s broadly diversified portfolio does not ensure a profit or guarantee against loss. From time to time, the Fund may invest a significant portion of its net assets in foreign securities, which may involve political, economic, currency and other risks not encountered in U.S. investments. Regarding the “Top Contributors” and “Top Detractors” tables shown above, the sum of all contributors to, and all detractors from, performance for all securities in the portfolio would approximate the Fund’s year-to-date performance for 2020.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 23
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
| Schedule of Investments | | | | | | |
| Common Stocks – 102.9% | | | | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | |
| COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.8% | | | | | | | | |
| DIVERSIFIED TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| †Ooma 1 | | | 14,300 | | | $ | 235,664 | |
| ORBCOMM 1 | | | 65,000 | | | | 250,250 | |
| | | | | | | | 485,914 | |
| ENTERTAINMENT - 0.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Chicken Soup For The Soul Entertainment Cl. A 1 | | | 331,800 | | | | 2,292,738 | |
| Gaia Cl. A 1,2,3 | | | 100,000 | | | | 838,000 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,130,738 | |
| INTERACTIVE MEDIA & SERVICES - 0.6% | | | | | | | | |
| †Eventbrite Cl. A 1 | | | 22,000 | | | | 188,540 | |
| QuinStreet 1 | | | 198,600 | | | | 2,077,356 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,265,896 | |
| MEDIA - 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| comScore 1 | | | 297,195 | | | | 921,305 | |
| Total (Cost $10,783,791) | | | | | | | 6,803,853 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 9.6% | | | | | | | | |
| AUTO COMPONENTS - 1.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Exco Technologies | | | 6,000 | | | | 29,611 | |
| Fox Factory Holding 1 | | | 3,000 | | | | 247,830 | |
| Motorcar Parts of America 1 | | | 54,800 | | | | 968,316 | |
| Sebang Global Battery | | | 50,500 | | | | 1,277,933 | |
| Standard Motor Products | | | 50,860 | | | | 2,095,432 | |
| Stoneridge 1,2,3 | | | 57,600 | | | | 1,190,016 | |
| | | | | | | | 5,809,138 | |
| DIVERSIFIED CONSUMER SERVICES - 2.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Aspen Group 1 | | | 141,520 | | | | 1,280,756 | |
| Collectors Universe 2,3 | | | 98,900 | | | | 3,390,292 | |
| Park Lawn | | | 50,000 | | | | 825,722 | |
| Universal Technical Institute 1 | | | 445,000 | | | | 3,092,750 | |
| | | | | | | | 8,589,520 | |
| HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 1.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Century Casinos 1 | | | 222,500 | | | | 923,375 | |
| †GAN 1 | | | 33,900 | | | | 862,755 | |
| Inspired Entertainment 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 145,000 | |
| Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1 | | | 331,168 | | | | 2,556,617 | |
| Red Lion Hotels 1 | | | 324,671 | | | | 756,483 | |
| | | | | | | | 5,244,230 | |
| HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 1.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Cavco Industries 1,2 | | | 8,600 | | | | 1,658,510 | |
| Legacy Housing 1 | | | 100,000 | | | | 1,422,000 | |
| Lifetime Brands 2 | | | 119,294 | | | | 801,656 | |
| †Purple Innovation 1 | | | 8,500 | | | | 153,000 | |
| Universal Electronics 1 | | | 6,100 | | | | 285,602 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,320,768 | |
| INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 0.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Rubicon Project (The) 1 | | | 289,500 | | | | 1,930,965 | |
| †Trxade Group 1 | | | 20,700 | | | | 126,684 | |
| Yatra Online 1 | | | 105,000 | | | | 71,316 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,128,965 | |
| LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Clarus Corporation | | | 175,335 | | | | 2,030,379 | |
| MasterCraft Boat Holdings 1 | | | 10,200 | | | | 194,310 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,224,689 | |
| SPECIALTY RETAIL - 1.2% | | | | | | | | |
| AutoCanada | | | 440,000 | | | | 3,467,885 | |
| Barnes & Noble Education 1 | | | 80,000 | | | | 128,000 | |
| Destination XL Group 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 32,515 | |
| Lazydays Holdings 1 | | | 30,000 | | | | 261,300 | |
| †OneWater Marine Cl. A 1 | | | 1,200 | | | | 29,136 | |
| Shoe Carnival 2 | | | 23,716 | | | | 694,167 | |
| Stage Stores 1,4 | | | 15,000 | | | | 1,050 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,614,053 | |
| TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Crown Crafts | | | 86,359 | | | | 421,432 | |
| Culp | | | 23,100 | | | | 198,891 | |
| J G Boswell Company 4 | | | 2,490 | | | | 1,215,120 | |
| YGM Trading | | | 2,564,600 | | | | 761,058 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,596,501 | |
| Total (Cost $42,316,970) | | | | | | | 35,527,864 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER STAPLES – 2.3% | | | | | | | | |
| BEVERAGES - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Crimson Wine Group 1,4 | | | 58,124 | | | | 310,963 | |
| Eastside Distilling 1 | | | 23,000 | | | | 33,580 | |
| MGP Ingredients | | | 26,500 | | | | 972,683 | |
| Primo Water | | | 26,791 | | | | 368,376 | |
| | | | | | | | 1,685,602 | |
| FOOD PRODUCTS - 1.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Farmer Bros. 1,2,3 | | | 31,300 | | | | 229,742 | |
| John B Sanfilippo & Son 2 | | | 7,900 | | | | 674,107 | |
| Landec Corporation 1,2 | | | 75,610 | | | | 601,856 | |
| RiceBran Technologies 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 41,395 | |
| Seneca Foods Cl. A 1,2 | | | 81,087 | | | | 2,741,551 | |
| Seneca Foods Cl. B 1 | | | 40,400 | | | | 1,282,700 | |
| SunOpta 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 235,000 | |
| | | | | | | | 5,806,351 | |
| HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Central Garden & Pet 1 | | | 12,000 | | | | 431,880 | |
| PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| †e.l.f. Beauty 1 | | | 28,300 | | | | 539,681 | |
| Total (Cost $6,667,111) | | | | | | | 8,463,514 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY – 5.8% | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 2.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Aspen Aerogels 1 | | | 101,785 | | | | 669,745 | |
| Bristow Group 1,2,3 | | | 127,900 | | | | 1,781,647 | |
| CES Energy Solutions | | | 25,000 | | | | 19,888 | |
| Computer Modelling Group | | | 639,775 | | | | 2,238,459 | |
| Dawson Geophysical 1 | | | 77,336 | | | | 111,364 | |
| Geospace Technologies 1,2 | | | 9,500 | | | | 71,440 | |
| Hornbeck Offshore Services 1,2,4 | | | 460,000 | | | | 5,980 | |
| Independence Contract Drilling 1 | | | 5,000 | | | | 19,450 | |
| Matrix Service 1,2 | | | 38,000 | | | | 369,360 | |
| Nabors Industries | | | 680 | | | | 25,174 | |
| North American Construction Group | | | 50,000 | | | | 313,000 | |
| Pason Systems | | | 232,200 | | | | 1,269,095 | |
| Profire Energy 1 | | | 175,000 | | | | 145,793 | |
| SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,2 | | | 216,957 | | | | 553,240 | |
| TerraVest Industries | | | 199,000 | | | | 2,220,720 | |
| | | | | | | | 9,814,355 | |
| OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 3.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Ardmore Shipping | | | 161,300 | | | | 700,042 | |
| †Brigham Minerals Cl. A | | | 220,000 | | | | 2,717,000 | |
| Dorchester Minerals L.P. | | | 153,963 | | | | 1,967,647 | |
| Dorian LPG 1 | | | 163,138 | | | | 1,262,688 | |
| GeoPark | | | 87,318 | | | | 854,843 | |
| 24 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
June 30, 2020 (unaudited)
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| | | | SHARES | | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| Navigator Holdings 1 | | | 175,000 | | | $ | 1,125,250 | |
| Ring Energy 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 58,000 | |
| Sabine Royalty Trust 2 | | | 82,648 | | | | 2,291,003 | |
| StealthGas 1 | | | 229,664 | | | | 638,466 | |
| | | | | | | | 11,614,939 | |
| Total (Cost $36,353,854) | | | | | | | 21,429,294 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| FINANCIALS – 12.3% | | | | | | | | |
| BANKS - 1.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Bryn Mawr Bank | | | 25,000 | | | | 691,500 | |
| Caribbean Investment Holdings | | | 735,635 | | | | 369,221 | |
| Chemung Financial | | | 31,000 | | | | 846,300 | |
| Fauquier Bankshares 2 | | | 133,200 | | | | 1,984,680 | |
| Live Oak Bancshares 2 | | | 30,900 | | | | 448,359 | |
| Midway Investments 1,5 | | | 735,647 | | | | 0 | |
| †TriState Capital Holdings 1 | | | 28,900 | | | | 454,019 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,794,079 | |
| CAPITAL MARKETS - 8.4% | | | | | | | | |
| ASA Gold and Precious Metals | | | 171,150 | | | | 2,998,548 | |
| Ashford 1 | | | 10,000 | | | | 101,500 | |
| B. Riley Financial | | | 27,500 | | | | 598,400 | |
| Bolsa Mexicana de Valores | | | 1,068,000 | | | | 2,001,295 | |
| Canaccord Genuity Group | | | 203,300 | | | | 1,034,769 | |
| Donnelley Financial Solutions 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 420,000 | |
| Fiera Capital Cl. A | | | 78,000 | | | | 545,816 | |
| GAIN Capital Holdings 2 | | | 25,000 | | | | 150,500 | |
| Great Elm Capital Group 1 | | | 566,700 | | | | 1,320,411 | |
| JZ Capital Partners 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 55,698 | |
| Manning & Napier Cl. A | | | 136,600 | | | | 390,676 | |
| MVC Capital | | | 219,900 | | | | 1,435,947 | |
| Portman Ridge Finance | | | 22,039 | | | | 24,243 | |
| Silvercrest Asset Management Group Cl. A | | | 224,100 | | | | 2,848,311 | |
| Sprott | | | 176,453 | | | | 6,341,442 | |
| StoneX Group 1,2,3 | | | 69,327 | | | | 3,812,985 | |
| †Tel Aviv Stock Exchange | | | 343,000 | | | | 1,537,986 | |
| U.S. Global Investors Cl. A 2 | | | 439,454 | | | | 830,568 | |
| Urbana Corporation | | | 237,600 | | | | 413,035 | |
| Value Line 2,3 | | | 74,574 | | | | 2,012,752 | |
| VNV Global SDR 1 | | | 100,000 | | | | 741,560 | |
| Warsaw Stock Exchange | | | 52,900 | | | | 558,752 | |
| Westaim Corporation 1 | | | 500,000 | | | | 762,375 | |
| | | | | | | | 30,937,569 | |
| CONSUMER FINANCE - 0.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Currency Exchange International 1 | | | 7,000 | | | | 62,647 | |
| EZCORP Cl. A 1,2,3 | | | 201,000 | | | | 1,266,300 | |
| | | | | | | | 1,328,947 | |
| DIVERSIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| ECN Capital | | | 556,000 | | | | 1,580,848 | |
| Waterloo Investment Holdings 1,5 | | | 806,000 | | | | 201,500 | |
| | | | | | | | 1,782,348 | |
| INSURANCE - 1.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Benefytt Technologies Cl. A 1,2 | | | 13,600 | | | | 278,256 | |
| Hallmark Financial Services 1,2 | | | 114,000 | | | | 397,860 | |
| Trupanion 1,2,3 | | | 82,300 | | | | 3,513,387 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,189,503 | |
| INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Oaktree Acquisition (Units) 1 | | | 200,000 | | | | 2,140,000 | |
| Total (Cost $46,717,750) | | | | | | | 45,172,446 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| HEALTH CARE – 17.4% | | | | | | | | |
| BIOTECHNOLOGY - 3.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Abeona Therapeutics 1,2 | | | 142,221 | | | | 414,574 | |
| Arcturus Therapeutics Holdings 1,2 | | | 79,836 | | | | 3,731,535 | |
| BioSpecifics Technologies 1 | | | 8,900 | | | | 545,392 | |
| CareDx 1 | | | 18,900 | | | | 669,627 | |
| Idera Pharmaceuticals 1 | | | 58,061 | | | | 103,929 | |
| Larimar Therapeutics 1,2 | | | 28,064 | | | | 360,623 | |
| Neoleukin Therapeutics 1,2 | | | 145,397 | | | | 2,413,590 | |
| Theratechnologies 1 | | | 10,000 | | | | 20,109 | |
| Zealand Pharma 1 | | | 153,015 | | | | 5,267,056 | |
| Zealand Pharma ADR 1 | | | 10,000 | | | | 350,000 | |
| | | | | | | | 13,876,435 | |
| HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 7.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Apyx Medical 1 | | | 11,700 | | | | 64,935 | |
| AtriCure 1,2 | | | 15,000 | | | | 674,250 | |
| Atrion Corporation 2 | | | 4,689 | | | | 2,986,940 | |
| †BioLife Solutions 1 | | | 21,400 | | | | 349,890 | |
| Chembio Diagnostics 1 | | | 135,800 | | | | 441,350 | |
| CryoLife 1 | | | 4,600 | | | | 88,182 | |
| †CryoPort 1 | | | 9,600 | | | | 290,400 | |
| GenMark Diagnostics 1 | | | 12,000 | | | | 176,520 | |
| LeMaitre Vascular | | | 8,800 | | | | 232,320 | |
| Mesa Laboratories 2 | | | 52,000 | | | | 11,273,600 | |
| †Misonix 1 | | | 46,400 | | | | 629,648 | |
| OraSure Technologies 1,2 | | | 50,000 | | | | 581,500 | |
| OrthoPediatrics Corporation 1 | | | 17,200 | | | | 752,672 | |
| Oxford Immunotec Global 1 | | | 5,200 | | | | 67,600 | |
| †Profound Medical 1 | | | 8,500 | | | | 143,941 | |
| Semler Scientific 1,4 | | | 22,400 | | | | 1,028,160 | |
| †SI-BONE 1 | | | 14,300 | | | | 227,942 | |
| STRATEC | | | 14,000 | | | | 1,367,915 | |
| Surmodics 1,2 | | | 79,800 | | | | 3,450,552 | |
| †Tactile Systems Technology 1 | | | 3,000 | | | | 124,290 | |
| TearLab Corporation 1,4 | | | 8,500 | | | | 478 | |
| Utah Medical Products | | | 33,000 | | | | 2,924,460 | |
| | | | | | | | 27,877,545 | |
| HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 1.9% | | | | | | | | |
| AAC Holdings 1,4 | | | 89,400 | | | | 2,950 | |
| BioTelemetry 1 | | | 17,279 | | | | 780,838 | |
| CRH Medical 1 | | | 475,000 | | | | 993,666 | |
| Cross Country Healthcare 1 | | | 130,800 | | | | 805,728 | |
| †Joint Corp. (The) 1 | | | 9,700 | | | | 148,119 | |
| National Research 2 | | | 46,668 | | | | 2,716,544 | |
| PetIQ Cl. A 1,2,3 | | | 25,000 | | | | 871,000 | |
| Psychemedics Corporation 2 | | | 37,500 | | | | 206,250 | |
| †Sharps Compliance 1 | | | 40,500 | | | | 284,715 | |
| †Surgery Partners 1 | | | 13,000 | | | | 150,410 | |
| | | | | | | | 6,960,220 | |
| HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 2.4% | | | | | | | | |
| †OptimizeRx Corporation 1 | | | 14,900 | | | | 194,147 | |
| Simulations Plus 2 | | | 100,670 | | | | 6,022,079 | |
| Tabula Rasa HealthCare 1,2 | | | 38,400 | | | | 2,101,632 | |
| Vocera Communications 1 | | | 33,100 | | | | 701,720 | |
| | | | | | | | 9,019,578 | |
| LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 1.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Harvard Bioscience 1 | | | 117,200 | | | | 363,320 | |
| Quanterix Corporation 1 | | | 130,800 | | | | 3,582,612 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,945,932 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 25 |
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| | | | SHARES | | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| HEALTH CARE (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| PHARMACEUTICALS - 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Agile Therapeutics 1,2,3 | | | 90,000 | | | $ | 250,200 | |
| Knight Therapeutics 1 | | | 187,000 | | | | 966,956 | |
| Theravance Biopharma 1,2,3 | | | 59,009 | | | | 1,238,599 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,455,755 | |
| Total (Cost $38,872,229) | | | | | | | 64,135,465 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS – 20.6% | | | | | | | | |
| AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 0.9% | | | | | | | | |
| Astronics Corporation 1 | | | 7,229 | | | | 76,338 | |
| CPI Aerostructures 1 | | | 171,800 | | | | 565,222 | |
| Innovative Solutions and Support 1 | | | 78,828 | | | | 394,140 | |
| †Magellan Aerospace | | | 19,000 | | | | 101,046 | |
| SIFCO Industries 1 | | | 45,800 | | | | 183,200 | |
| Virgin Galactic Holdings 1,2,3 | | | 121,050 | | | | 1,977,957 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,297,903 | |
| AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 2,151,500 | |
| Echo Global Logistics 1 | | | 20,000 | | | | 432,400 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,583,900 | |
| BUILDING PRODUCTS - 1.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Burnham Holdings Cl. A 4 | | | 117,000 | | | | 1,175,850 | |
| CSW Industrials 2 | | | 20,000 | | | | 1,382,200 | |
| DIRTT Environmental Solutions 1 | | | 96,000 | | | | 115,969 | |
| Insteel Industries 2 | | | 44,200 | | | | 842,894 | |
| Patrick Industries | | | 17,250 | | | | 1,056,563 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,573,476 | |
| COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 1.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Acme United | | | 25,000 | | | | 574,500 | |
| Atento 1 | | | 109,300 | | | | 128,974 | |
| Civeo 1 | | | 450,000 | | | | 277,425 | |
| CompX International Cl. A | | | 500 | | | | 6,910 | |
| Harsco Corporation 1 | | | 41,718 | | | | 563,610 | |
| Heritage-Crystal Clean 1,2,3 | | | 123,001 | | | | 2,147,598 | |
| Hudson Technologies 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 50,500 | |
| PICO Holdings 1,2 | | | 121,200 | | | | 1,021,716 | |
| Team 1,2 | | | 93,300 | | | | 519,681 | |
| | | | | | | | 5,290,914 | |
| CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 3.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Ameresco Cl. A 1 | | | 166,600 | | | | 4,628,148 | |
| Construction Partners Cl. A 1 | | | 88,200 | | | | 1,566,432 | |
| Granite Construction | | | 13,500 | | | | 258,390 | |
| IES Holdings 1,2 | | | 134,700 | | | | 3,120,999 | |
| Infrastructure and Energy Alternatives 1 | | | 275,100 | | | | 1,094,898 | |
| Northwest Pipe 1,2 | | | 59,400 | | | | 1,489,158 | |
| NV5 Global 1 | | | 10,000 | | | | 508,300 | |
| | | | | | | | 12,666,325 | |
| ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.8% | | | | | | | | |
| American Superconductor 1 | | | 56,825 | | | | 461,987 | |
| Encore Wire 2 | | | 3,307 | | | | 161,448 | |
| LSI Industries | | | 415,740 | | | | 2,689,838 | |
| Powell Industries 2 | | | 21,400 | | | | 586,146 | |
| Power Solutions International 1,2,4 | | | 21,100 | | | | 84,400 | |
| Revolution Lighting Technologies 1,2,5 | | | 81,200 | | | | 20,300 | |
| Vertiv Holdings Cl. A 1 | | | 200,000 | | | | 2,712,000 | |
| | | | | | | | 6,716,119 | |
| INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 0.9% | | | | | | | | |
| Raven Industries 2 | | | 145,500 | | | | 3,129,705 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| MACHINERY - 5.1% | | | | | | | | |
| CIRCOR International 1,2,3 | | | 270,521 | | | | 6,892,875 | |
| Graham Corporation 2 | | | 93,150 | | | | 1,186,731 | |
| Helios Technologies 2 | | | 50,000 | | | | 1,862,500 | |
| Hurco Companies 2 | | | 36,866 | | | | 1,031,142 | |
| L B Foster Company 1,2 | | | 95,300 | | | | 1,216,981 | |
| Lindsay Corporation 2 | | | 46,400 | | | | 4,278,544 | |
| Luxfer Holdings 2 | | | 42,112 | | | | 595,885 | |
| NN 1 | | | 90,600 | | | | 429,444 | |
| Shyft Group | | | 17,200 | | | | 289,648 | |
| Titan International | | | 212,200 | | | | 309,812 | |
| Twin Disc 1 | | | 4,300 | | | | 23,822 | |
| Wabash National | | | 6,400 | | | | 67,968 | |
| Westport Fuel Systems 1 | | | 491,100 | | | | 608,964 | |
| | | | | | | | 18,794,316 | |
| MARINE - 1.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Algoma Central | | | 40,000 | | | | 296,406 | |
| Clarkson 1 | | | 109,900 | | | | 3,064,520 | |
| Eagle Bulk Shipping 1 | | | 570,000 | | | | 1,248,300 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,609,226 | |
| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Acacia Research 1,2 | | | 190,000 | | | | 777,100 | |
| Barrett Business Services | | | 2,600 | | | | 138,138 | |
| Forrester Research 1 | | | 41,000 | | | | 1,313,640 | |
| Franklin Covey 1,2 | | | 40,100 | | | | 858,140 | |
| GP Strategies 1 | | | 43,700 | | | | 374,946 | |
| InnerWorkings 1 | | | 25,000 | | | | 33,000 | |
| Kforce 2 | | | 2,800 | | | | 81,900 | |
| Resources Connection | | | 59,300 | | | | 709,821 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,286,685 | |
| ROAD & RAIL - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Marten Transport | | | 2,500 | | | | 62,900 | |
| Patriot Transportation Holding 1,2 | | | 55,764 | | | | 468,417 | |
| Universal Logistics Holdings 2 | | | 75,200 | | | | 1,306,976 | |
| | | | | | | | 1,838,293 | |
| TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 2.2% | | | | | | | | |
| EVI Industries 1,2 | | | 217,709 | | | | 4,726,462 | |
| Houston Wire & Cable 1 | | | 331,418 | | | | 782,147 | |
| Lawson Products 1 | | | 30,200 | | | | 974,252 | |
| Transcat 1 | | | 68,755 | | | | 1,778,004 | |
| | | | | | | | 8,260,865 | |
| Total (Cost $79,772,395) | | | | | | | 76,047,727 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 22.2% | | | | | | | | |
| COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Clearfield 1 | | | 85,200 | | | | 1,189,392 | |
| Digi International 1 | | | 45,800 | | | | 533,570 | |
| Genasys 1 | | | 38,300 | | | | 186,138 | |
| Ituran Location and Control | | | 50,000 | | | | 801,000 | |
| PCTEL | | | 34,100 | | | | 227,788 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,937,888 | |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 8.0% | | | | | | | | |
| Bel Fuse Cl. A | | | 67,705 | | | | 675,696 | |
| Fabrinet 1 | | | 2,200 | | | | 137,324 | |
| FARO Technologies 1,2,3 | | | 72,100 | | | | 3,864,560 | |
| Firan Technology Group 1 | | | 25,000 | | | | 32,594 | |
| HollySys Automation Technologies | | | 51,900 | | | | 690,270 | |
| LightPath Technologies Cl. A 1 | | | 100,000 | | | | 334,000 | |
| Luna Innovations 1 | | | 350,478 | | | | 2,046,792 | |
| 26 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
June 30, 2020 (unaudited)
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (continued) | | | | | | |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| nLIGHT 1,2,3 | | | 337,200 | | | $ | 7,506,072 | |
| Novanta 1 | | | 3,400 | | | | 363,018 | |
| PAR Technology 1,2,3 | | | 303,124 | | | | 9,072,501 | |
| PC Connection 2,3 | | | 33,416 | | | | 1,549,166 | |
| Perceptron 1 | | | 30,000 | | | | 99,300 | |
| †PowerFleet 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 231,000 | |
| Richardson Electronics | | | 316,900 | | | | 1,280,276 | |
| SMTC Corporation 1 | | | 150,000 | | | | 454,500 | |
| Vishay Precision Group 1 | | | 41,800 | | | | 1,027,444 | |
| | | | | | | | 29,364,513 | |
| IT SERVICES - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Computer Task Group 1 | | | 84,800 | | | | 341,744 | |
| Hackett Group (The) 2 | | | 27,700 | | | | 375,058 | |
| †International Money Express 1 | | | 21,100 | | | | 262,906 | |
| Limelight Networks 1 | | | 20,300 | | | | 149,408 | |
| USA Technologies 1,2,4 | | | 90,500 | | | | 633,500 | |
| | | | | | | | 1,762,616 | |
| SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 7.9% | | | | | | | | |
| Alpha & Omega Semiconductor 1 | | | 17,900 | | | | 194,752 | |
| Amtech Systems 1,2 | | | 92,184 | | | | 448,936 | |
| Axcelis Technologies 1 | | | 7,700 | | | | 214,445 | |
| AXT 1 | | | 100,000 | | | | 476,000 | |
| Brooks Automation 2 | | | 45,300 | | | | 2,004,072 | |
| Camtek | | | 112,200 | | | | 1,411,476 | |
| Cohu | | | 41,990 | | | | 728,106 | |
| CyberOptics Corporation 1 | | | 49,500 | | | | 1,594,395 | |
| FormFactor 1 | | | 22,869 | | | | 670,748 | |
| Ichor Holdings 1 | | | 25,700 | | | | 683,106 | |
| Kulicke & Soffa Industries 2 | | | 77,200 | | | | 1,608,076 | |
| NeoPhotonics Corporation 1,2 | | | 98,600 | | | | 875,568 | |
| Nova Measuring Instruments 1,2 | | | 68,300 | | | | 3,291,377 | |
| Onto Innovation 1,2 | | | 133,150 | | | | 4,532,426 | |
| PDF Solutions 1 | | | 195,700 | | | | 3,827,892 | |
| Photronics 1 | | | 232,700 | | | | 2,589,951 | |
| Silicon Motion Technology ADR | | | 36,100 | | | | 1,760,597 | |
| †SiTime 1 | | | 3,600 | | | | 170,676 | |
| Ultra Clean Holdings 1,2 | | | 74,200 | | | | 1,679,146 | |
| Veeco Instruments 1,2 | | | 17,500 | | | | 236,075 | |
| | | | | | | | 28,997,820 | |
| SOFTWARE - 4.0% | | | | | | | | |
| Agilysys 1,2 | | | 81,000 | | | | 1,453,140 | |
| American Software Cl. A 2 | | | 120,352 | | | | 1,896,748 | |
| Digital Turbine 1 | | | 120,200 | | | | 1,510,914 | |
| †eGain Corporation 1 | | | 8,500 | | | | 94,435 | |
| Model N 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 1,738,000 | |
| OneSpan 1 | | | 5,600 | | | | 156,408 | |
| Optiva 1 | | | 28,000 | | | | 577,490 | |
| QAD Cl. A | | | 29,487 | | | | 1,217,223 | |
| RealNetworks 1 | | | 100,171 | | | | 130,222 | |
| SeaChange International 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 75,500 | |
| SharpSpring 1 | | | 111,300 | | | | 977,214 | |
| Upland Software 1 | | | 148,200 | | | | 5,151,432 | |
| | | | | | | | 14,978,726 | |
| TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS - 1.0% | | | | | | | | |
| AstroNova | | | 62,000 | | | | 493,520 | |
| Intevac 1 | | | 539,400 | | | | 2,945,124 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE, STORAGE & PERIPHERALS (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| TransAct Technologies 1 | | | 40,900 | | | | 187,322 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,625,966 | |
| Total (Cost $67,993,106) | | | | | | | 81,667,529 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| MATERIALS – 6.6% | | | | | | | | |
| CHEMICALS - 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Balchem Corporation | | | 3,250 | | | | 308,295 | |
| LSB Industries 1 | | | 135,800 | | | | 157,528 | |
| Rayonier Advanced Materials 1 | | | 50,000 | | | | 140,500 | |
| Trecora Resources 1 | | | 89,600 | | | | 561,792 | |
| | | | | | | | 1,168,115 | |
| CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Monarch Cement 4 | | | 16,303 | | | | 831,453 | |
| CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| UFP Technologies 1,2,3 | | | 36,445 | | | | 1,605,767 | |
| METALS & MINING - 5.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | | | 261,044 | | | | 2,434,308 | |
| †Altius Minerals | | | 113,000 | | | | 810,710 | |
| Ampco-Pittsburgh 1 | | | 79,002 | | | | 242,536 | |
| Haynes International 2 | | | 38,000 | | | | 887,680 | |
| Imdex | | | 650,666 | | | | 499,022 | |
| MAG Silver 1 | | | 154,050 | | | | 2,172,105 | |
| Major Drilling Group International 1 | | | 1,204,084 | | | | 3,804,891 | |
| Olympic Steel | | | 35,000 | | | | 411,250 | |
| Pretium Resources 1 | | | 80,000 | | | | 669,417 | |
| Sandstorm Gold 1 | | | 810,000 | | | | 7,792,200 | |
| Universal Stainless & Alloy Products 1,2 | | | 33,620 | | | | 289,132 | |
| Victoria Gold 1 | | | 59,333 | | | | 620,165 | |
| | | | | | | | 20,633,416 | |
| Total (Cost $23,364,458) | | | | | | | 24,238,751 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| REAL ESTATE – 3.9% | | | | | | | | |
| EQUITY REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Postal Realty Trust Cl. A | | | 114,000 | | | | 1,818,300 | |
| REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Altus Group | | | 87,000 | | | | 2,613,973 | |
| Dundee Corporation Cl. A 1 | | | 413,200 | | | | 410,887 | |
| Marcus & Millichap 1,2 | | | 4,900 | | | | 141,414 | |
| Real Matters 1 | | | 255,000 | | | | 4,973,777 | |
| RMR Group (The) Cl. A 2 | | | 75,400 | | | | 2,222,038 | |
| Tejon Ranch 1,2 | | | 154,994 | | | | 2,231,914 | |
| | | | | | | | 12,594,003 | |
| Total (Cost $14,800,631) | | | | | | | 14,412,303 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| UTILITIES – 0.4% | | | | | | | | |
| INDEPENDENT POWER & RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY PRODUCER - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Innergex Renewable Energy | | | 15,573 | | | | 219,096 | |
| WATER UTILITIES - 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Global Water Resources | | | 106,000 | | | | 1,117,240 | |
| Total (Cost $837,426) | | | | | | | 1,336,336 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $368,479,721) | | | | | | | 379,235,082 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 27 |
| Royce Micro-Cap Trust | June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | |
| WARRANTS- 0.0% | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS – 0.0% | | | | | | |
| CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
Infrastructure and Energy Alternatives
(Warrants) 1 | | | 100,000 | | | $ | 14,900 | |
| Total (Cost $106,385) | | | | | | | 14,900 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 0.0%
eMagin Corporation (Warrants) 1,5 | | | 50,000 | | | | 0 | |
| Total (Cost $0) | | | | | | | 0 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL WARRANTS | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $106,385) | | | | | | | 14,900 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| REPURCHASE AGREEMENT– 3.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, 0.00% dated 6/30/20, due 7/1/20, maturity value $12,320,000 (collateralized by obligations of various U.S. Government Agencies, 2.125% due 11/30/24, valued at $12,566,471) |
| (Cost $12,320,000) | | | | | | | 12,320,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 106.2% | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $380,906,106) | | | | | | | 391,569,982 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (6.2)% | | | | | | | (22,813,124 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | | | | | $ | 368,756,858 | |
ADR – American Depository Receipt
SDR – Swedish Depository Receipt
| 2 | All or a portion of these securities were pledged as collateral in connection with the Fund’s revolving credit agreement at June 30, 2020. Total market value of pledged securities at June 30, 2020, was $80,875,323. |
| 3 | At June 30, 2020, a portion of these securities were rehypothecated in connection with the Fund’s revolving credit agreement in the aggregate amount of $20,767,585. |
| 4 | These securities are defined as Level 2 securities due to fair value being based on quoted prices for similar securities. See Notes to Financial Statements. |
| 5 | Securities for which market quotations are not readily available represent 0.1% of net assets. These securities have been valued at their fair value under procedures approved by the Fund’s Board of Directors. These securities are defined as Level 3 securities due to the use of significant unobservable inputs in the determination of fair value. See Notes to Financial Statements. |
Bold indicates the Fund’s 20 largest equity holdings in terms of June 30, 2020, market value.
TAX INFORMATION: The cost of total investments for Federal income tax purposes was $381,229,510. At June 30, 2020, net unrealized appreciation for all securities was $10,340,472 consisting of aggregate gross unrealized appreciation of $101,564,532 and aggregate gross unrealized depreciation of $91,224,060. The primary cause of the difference between book and tax basis cost is the timing of the recognition of losses on securities sold.
| 28 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
| Royce Micro-Cap Trust | June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
| ASSETS: | | | |
| Investments at value | | $ | 379,249,982 | |
| Repurchase agreements (at cost and value) | | | 12,320,000 | |
| Cash | | | 826 | |
| Foreign currency (cost $16,486) | | | 16,609 | |
| Receivable for investments sold | | | 91,461 | |
| Receivable for dividends | | | 97,001 | |
| Prepaid expenses and other assets | | | 36,117 | |
| Total Assets | | | 391,811,996 | |
| LIABILITIES: | | | | |
| Revolving credit agreement | | | 22,000,000 | |
| Payable for investments purchased | | | 551,639 | |
| Payable for investment advisory fee | | | 373,933 | |
| Payable for directors' fees | | | 19,128 | |
| Payable for interest expense | | | 23,112 | |
| Accrued expenses | | | 87,326 | |
| Total Liabilities | | | 23,055,138 | |
| Net Assets | | $ | 368,756,858 | |
| ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS: | | | | |
| Paid-in capital - $0.001 par value per share; 43,098,921 shares outstanding (150,000,000 shares authorized) | | $ | 360,318,172 | |
| Total distributable earnings (loss) | | | 21,562,227 | |
| Quarterly distributions | | | (13,123,541 | ) |
| Net Assets (net asset value per share - $8.56) | | $ | 368,756,858 | |
| Investments at identified cost | | $ | 368,586,106 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 29 |
| Royce Micro-Cap Trust | Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Operations
| INVESTMENT INCOME: | | | |
| INCOME: | | | |
| Dividends | | $ | 2,126,117 | |
| Foreign withholding tax | | | (80,759 | ) |
| Interest | | | 7,901 | |
| Rehypothecation income | | | 129,182 | |
| Total income | | | 2,182,441 | |
| EXPENSES: | | | | |
| Investment advisory fees | | | 2,057,642 | |
| Interest expense | | | 224,990 | |
| Administrative and office facilities | | | 94,600 | |
| Stockholder reports | | | 76,380 | |
| Directors' fees | | | 36,339 | |
| Professional fees | | | 34,373 | |
| Custody and transfer agent fees | | | 33,446 | |
| Other expenses | | | 26,001 | |
| Total expenses | | | 2,583,771 | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | (401,330 | ) |
| REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY: | | | | |
| NET REALIZED GAIN (LOSS): | | | | |
| Investments | | | 15,506,470 | |
| Foreign currency transactions | | | 11,709 | |
| NET CHANGE IN UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION): | | | | |
| Investments | | | (44,213,057 | ) |
| Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency | | | 45 | |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | (28,694,833 | ) |
| NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS | | $ | (29,096,163 | ) |
| 30 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
| | | SIX MONTHS ENDED
6/30/20 (UNAUDITED) | | | YEAR ENDED 12/31/19 | |
| | | | | | | |
| INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: | | | | | | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | $ | (401,330 | ) | | $ | 382,166 | |
| Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | 15,518,179 | | | | 21,750,780 | |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and foreign currency | | | (44,213,012 | ) | | | 52,498,864 | |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | | (29,096,163 | ) | | | 74,631,810 | |
| DISTRIBUTIONS: | | | | | | | | |
| Quarterly distributions | | | (13,123,541 | ) | | | (27,923,323 | ) |
| Total distributions | | | (13,123,541 | ) | | | (27,923,323 | ) |
| CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS: | | | | | | | | |
| Reinvestment of distributions | | | 6,169,566 | | | | 12,599,364 | |
| Total capital stock transactions | | | 6,169,566 | | | | 12,599,364 | |
| Net Increase (Decrease) In Net Assets | | | (36,050,138 | ) | | | 59,307,851 | |
| NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | |
| Beginning of period | | | 404,806,996 | | | | 345,499,145 | |
| End of period | | $ | 368,756,858 | | | $ | 404,806,996 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 31 |
| Royce Micro-Cap Trust | Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Cash Flows
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | | | |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | $ | (29,096,163 | ) |
| Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations to net cash provided by operating activities: | | | | |
| Purchases of long-term investments | | | (40,757,200 | ) |
| Proceeds from sales and maturities of long-term investments | | | 42,423,678 | |
| Net purchases, sales and maturities of short-term investments | | | 5,470,000 | |
| Net (increase) decrease in dividends and interest receivable and other assets | | | 145,219 | |
| Net increase (decrease) in interest expense payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities | | | 11,665 | |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | | | 44,213,057 | |
| Net realized gain (loss) on investments | | | (15,506,470 | ) |
| Net cash provided by operating activities | | | 6,903,786 | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | | | | |
| Distributions | | | (13,123,541 | ) |
| Reinvestment of distributions | | | 6,169,566 | |
| Net cash used for financing activities | | | (6,953,975 | ) |
| INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH: | | | (50,189 | ) |
| Cash and foreign currency at beginning of period | | | 67,624 | |
| Cash and foreign currency at end of period | | $ | 17,435 | |
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund paid $256,125 in interest expense.
| 32 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
Financial Highlights
This table is presented to show selected data for a share of Common Stock outstanding throughout each period, and to assist stockholders in evaluating the Fund's performance for the periods presented.
| | | SIX MONTHS | | YEARS ENDED | |
| | | ENDED 6/30/20 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | (UNAUDITED) | | 12/31/19 | | | 12/31/18 | | | 12/31/17 | | | 12/31/16 | | | 12/31/15 | |
| Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | | $ | 9.63 | | | $ | 8.53 | | | $ | 10.48 | | | $ | 9.63 | | | $ | 8.59 | | | $ | 11.33 | |
| INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | 0.01 | | | | 0.01 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 0.03 | |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | (0.72 | ) | | | 1.81 | | | | (1.18 | ) | | | 1.52 | | | | 1.70 | | | | (1.42 | ) |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | | (0.73 | ) | | | 1.82 | | | | (1.17 | ) | | | 1.58 | | | | 1.73 | | | | (1.39 | ) |
| DISTRIBUTIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net investment income | | | –1 | | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.00 | ) | | | (0.06) | | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| Net realized gain on investments and foreign currency | | | (0.25 | )1 | | | (0.65 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | (0.63) | | | | (0.56 | ) | | | (1.25 | ) |
| Return of capital | | | (0.06 | )1 | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | |
| Total distributions | | | (0.31 | ) | | | (0.68 | ) | | | (0.75 | ) | | | (0.69 | ) | | | (0.64 | ) | | | (1.26 | ) |
| CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Effect of reinvestment of distributions by Common Stockholders | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.04) | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.09 | ) |
| Total capital stock transactions | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.04) | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.09 | ) |
| Net Asset Value, End of Period | | $ | 8.56 | | | $ | 9.63 | | | $ | 8.53 | | | $ | 10.48 | | | $ | 9.63 | | | $ | 8.59 | |
| Market Value, End of Period | | $ | 7.20 | | | $ | 8.54 | | | $ | 7.42 | | | $ | 9.44 | | | $ | 8.16 | | | $ | 7.26 | |
| TOTAL RETURN:2 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value | | | (6.21 | )%3 | | | 22.44 | % | | | (11.62 | )% | | | 17.67 | % | | | 21.98 | % | | | (11.64 | )% |
| Market Value | | | (11.04 | )%3 | | | 24.82 | % | | | (14.65 | )% | | | 25.09 | % | | | 22.30 | % | | | (16.06 | )% |
| RATIOS BASED ON AVERAGE NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Investment advisory fee expense4 | | | 1.18 | %5 | | | 0.85 | % | | | 0.92 | %6 | | | 0.49 | % | | | 0.87 | % | | | 0.93 | % |
| Other operating expenses | | | 0.30 | %5 | | | 0.35 | % | | | 0.43 | % | | | 0.40 | % | | | 0.39 | % | | | 0.35 | % |
| Total expenses (net) | | | 1.48 | %5 | | | 1.20 | % | | | 1.35 | % | | | 0.89 | % | | | 1.26 | % | | | 1.28 | % |
| Expenses excluding interest expense | | | 1.35 | %5 | | | 1.01 | % | | | 1.05 | % | | | 0.62 | % | | | 1.02 | % | | | 1.08 | % |
| Expenses prior to balance credits | | | 1.48 | %5 | | | 1.20 | % | | | 1.35 | % | | | 0.89 | % | | | 1.26 | % | | | 1.28 | % |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | (0.23 | )%5 | | | 0.10 | % | | | 0.10 | % | | | 0.56 | % | | | 0.32 | % | | | 0.26 | % |
| SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | | $ | 368,757 | | | $ | 404,807 | | | $ | 345,499 | | | $ | 409,905 | | | $ | 363,701 | | | $ | 312,407 | |
| Portfolio Turnover Rate | | | 11 | % | | | 15 | % | | | 21 | % | | | 15 | % | | | 26 | % | | | 39 | % |
| REVOLVING CREDIT AGREEMENT: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Asset coverage | | | 1776 | % | | | 1940 | % | | | 1670 | % | | | 1011 | % | | | 908 | % | | | 794 | % |
| Asset coverage per $1,000 | | $ | 17,762 | | | $ | 19,400 | | | $ | 16,705 | | | $ | 10,109 | | | $ | 9,082 | | | $ | 7,942 | |
| 1 | Amounts are subject to change and recharacterization at year end. |
| 2 | The Market Value Total Return is calculated assuming a purchase of Common Stock on the opening of the first business day and a sale on the closing of the last business day of each period. Dividends and distributions are assumed for the purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund's Distribution Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan. Net Asset Value Total Return is calculated on the same basis, except that the Fund's net asset value is used on the purchase, sale and dividend reinvestment dates instead of market value. |
| 4 | The investment advisory fee is calculated based on average net assets over a rolling 36-month basis, while the above ratios of investment advisory fee expenses are based on the average net assets over a 6-month basis for the six months ended 6/30/20, and a 12-month basis for the years shown. |
| 6 | Includes the impact of the adjustment of prior period's performance fees of 0.06%. |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 33 |
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Royce Micro-Cap Trust, Inc. (the “Fund”), is a diversified closed-end investment company that was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on September 9, 1993. The Fund commenced operations on December 14, 1993.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The Fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services-Investment Companies.”
Royce & Associates, LP, the Fund’s investment adviser, primarily conducts business using the name Royce Investment Partners (“Royce”).
VALUATION OF INVESTMENTS:
Securities are valued as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on the valuation date. Securities that trade on an exchange, and securities traded on Nasdaq’s Electronic Bulletin Board, are valued at their last reported sales price or Nasdaq official closing price taken from the primary market in which each security trades or, if no sale is reported for such day, at their highest bid price. Other over-the-counter securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at their highest bid price, except in the case of some bonds and other fixed income securities which may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates and maturities, using established independent pricing services. The Fund values its non-U.S. dollar denominated securities in U.S. dollars daily at the prevailing foreign currency exchange rates as quoted by a major bank. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at their fair value in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, under procedures approved by the Fund’s Board of Directors, and are reported as Level 3 securities. As a general principle, the fair value of a security is the amount which the Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale. However, in light of the judgment involved in fair valuations, there can be no assurance that a fair value assigned to a particular security will be the amount which the Fund might be able to receive upon its current sale. In addition, if, between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, the Fund may fair value the security. The Fund uses an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the U.S. market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by the Fund may differ from quoted or published prices for the same security. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments, as noted above. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels below:
| Level 1 – | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, foreign securities that may be fair valued and repurchase agreements). The table below includes all Level 2 securities. Level 2 securities with values based on quoted prices for similar securities are noted in the Schedule of Investments. |
| Level 3 – | significant unobservable inputs (including last trade price before trading was suspended, or at a discount thereto for lack of marketability or otherwise, market price information regarding other securities, information received from the company and/or published documents, including SEC filings and financial statements, or other publicly available information). |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of June 30, 2020. For a detailed breakout of common stocks by sector classification, please refer to the Schedule of Investments.
| | LEVEL 1 | LEVEL 2 | LEVEL 3 | TOTAL |
| Common Stocks | $359,725,274 | $19,288,008 | $221,800 | $379,235,082 |
| Warrants | 14,900 | – | 0 | 14,900 |
| Repurchase Agreement | – | 12,320,000 | – | 12,320,000 |
34 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
VALUATION OF INVESTMENTS (continued):
Level 3 Reconciliation:
| | BALANCE AS OF 12/31/19 | SALES | TRANSFERS IN | REALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)1 | BALANCE AS OF 6/30/20 |
| Common Stocks | $241,800 | $0 | $20,300 | $ (2,003,114) | $1,962,814 | $221,800 |
| Warrants | 0 | – | – | – | – | 0 |
| 1 | The net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in the accompanying Statement of Operations. Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) includes net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) resulting from changes in investment values during the reporting period and the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation (depreciation) when gains or losses are realized. Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions is included in the accompanying Statement of Operations. |
The following table summarizes the valuation techniques used and unobservable inputs approved by the Valuation Committee to determine the fair value of certain Level 3 investments. The table does not include Level 3 investments with values derived utilizing prices from prior transactions or third party pricing information with adjustments (e.g. broker quotes, pricing services, net asset values).
| | FAIR VALUE AT
6/30/20 | VALUATION TECHNIQUE(S) | UNOBSERVABLE INPUT(S) | RANGE AVERAGE | IMPACT TO VALUATION FROM
AN INCREASE IN INPUT1 |
| Common Stocks | $221,800 | Discounted Present Value Balance Sheet Analysis | Liquidity Discount | 30%-40% | Decrease |
| 1 | This column represents the directional change in the fair value of the Level 3 investments that would result in an increase from the corresponding unobservable input. A decrease to the unobservable input would have the opposite effect. Significant increases and decreases in these unobservable inputs in isolation could result in significantly higher or lower fair value measurements. |
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS:
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that the Fund’s investment adviser has determined are creditworthy. The Fund restricts repurchase agreements to maturities of no more than seven days. Securities pledged as collateral for repurchase agreements, which are held until maturity of the repurchase agreements, are marked-to-market daily and maintained at a value at least equal to the principal amount of the repurchase agreement (including accrued interest). Repurchase agreements could involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the counter-party, including possible delays or restrictions upon the ability of the Fund to dispose of its underlying securities. The remaining contractual maturity of the repurchase agreement held by the Fund at June 30, 2020 is overnight and continuous.
FOREIGN CURRENCY:
Net realized foreign exchange gains or losses arise from sales and maturities of short-term securities, sales of foreign currencies, expiration of currency forward contracts, currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on securities transactions, and the difference between the amounts of dividends, interest, and foreign withholding taxes recorded on the Fund’s books and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in the value of assets and liabilities, other than investments in securities at the end of the reporting period, as a result of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
The Fund does not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates on investments from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments.
TAXES:
As a qualified regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent that it distributes substantially all of its taxable income for its fiscal year. The Schedule of Investments includes information regarding income taxes under the caption “Tax Information.”
DISTRIBUTIONS:
The Fund pays quarterly distributions on the Fund’s Common Stock at the annual rate of 7% of the rolling average of the prior four calendar quarter-end NAVs of the Fund’s Common Stock, with the fourth quarter distribution being the greater of 1.75% of the rolling average or the distribution required by IRS regulations. Distributions to Common Stockholders are recorded on ex-dividend date. To the extent that distributions in any year are not paid from long-term capital gains, net investment income or net short-term capital gains, they will represent a return of capital. Distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations that may differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Permanent book and tax differences relating to stockholder distributions will result in reclassifications within the capital accounts. Undistributed net investment income may include temporary book and tax basis differences, which will reverse in a subsequent period. Any taxable income or gain remaining undistributed at fiscal year end is distributed in the following year.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 35
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS AND RELATED INVESTMENT INCOME:
Investment transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividend income is recorded at the fair market value of the securities received. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis. Premiums and discounts on debt securities are amortized using the effective yield-to-maturity method. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are determined on the basis of identified cost for book and tax purposes.
EXPENSES:
The Fund incurs direct and indirect expenses. Expenses directly attributable to the Fund are charged to the Fund’s operations, while expenses applicable to more than one of the Royce Funds are allocated equitably. Certain personnel, occupancy costs and other administrative expenses related to the Funds are allocated by Royce under an administration agreement and are included in administrative and office facilities and professional fees.
COMPENSATING BALANCE CREDITS:
The Fund has an arrangement with its custodian bank, whereby a portion of the custodian’s fee is paid indirectly by credits earned on the Fund’s cash on deposit with the bank. This deposit arrangement is an alternative to purchasing overnight investments. Conversely, the Fund pays interest to the custodian on any cash overdrafts, to the extent they are not offset by credits earned on positive cash balances.
Capital Stock:
The Fund issued 1,079,670 and 1,519,172 shares of Common Stock as reinvestment of distributions for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and the year ended December 31, 2019, respectively.
Borrowings:
The Fund is party to a revolving credit agreement (the credit agreement) with BNP Paribas Prime Brokerage International, Limited (BNPPI). The Fund pays a commitment fee of 0.50% per annum on the unused portion of the then-current maximum amount that may be borrowed by the Fund under the credit agreement. The credit agreement has a 179-day rolling term that resets daily. The Fund is required to pledge portfolio securities as collateral in an amount up to two times the loan balance outstanding, or as otherwise required by applicable regulatory standards, and has granted a security interest in the securities pledged to, and in favor of, BNPPI as security for the loan balance outstanding. If the Fund fails to meet certain requirements, or comply with other financial covenants set forth in the credit agreement, the Fund may be required to repay immediately, in part or in full, the loan balance outstanding under the credit agreement, which may necessitate the sale of portfolio securities at potentially inopportune times. BNPPI may terminate the credit agreement upon certain ratings downgrades of its corporate parent, which would result in the Fund’s entire loan balance becoming immediately due and payable. The occurrence of such ratings downgrades may necessitate the sale of portfolio securities at potentially inopportune times. BNPPI may also terminate the credit agreement upon sixty (60) calendar days’ prior written notice to the Fund in the event the Fund’s net asset value per share as of the close of business on the last business day of any calendar month declines by thirty-five percent (35%) or more from the Fund’s net asset value per share as of the close of business on the last business day of the immediately preceding calendar month.
The credit agreement also permits, subject to certain conditions, BNPPI to rehypothecate portfolio securities pledged by the Fund up to the amount of the loan balance outstanding. The Fund continues to receive payments in lieu of dividends and interest on rehypothecated securities. The Fund also has the right under the credit agreement to recall the rehypothecated securities from BNPPI on demand. If BNPPI fails to deliver the recalled security in a timely manner, the Fund is compensated by BNPPI for any fees or losses related to the failed delivery or, in the event a recalled security is not returned by BNPPI, the Fund, upon notice to BNPPI, may reduce the loan balance outstanding by the value of the recalled security failed to be returned. The Fund receives a portion of the fees earned by BNPPI in connection with the rehypothecation of portfolio securities.
The current maximum amount the Fund may borrow under the credit agreement is $22,000,000. The Fund has the right to reduce the maximum amount it can borrow under the credit agreement upon one (1) business day’s prior written notice to BNPPI. In addition, the Fund and BNPPI may agree to increase the maximum amount the Fund can borrow under the credit agreement, which amount may not exceed $60,000,000.
As of June 30, 2020, the Fund has outstanding borrowings of $22,000,000. During the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund borrowed an average daily balance of $22,000,000 at a weighted average borrowing cost of 2.02%. The maximum amount outstanding during the six months ended June 30, 2020, was $22,000,000. As of June 30, 2020, the aggregate value of rehypothecated securities was $20,767,585. During the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund earned $129,182 in fees from rehypothecated securities.
36 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Royce Micro-Cap Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Investment Advisory Agreement:
As compensation for its services under the investment advisory agreement, Royce receives a fee comprised of a Basic Fee (“Basic Fee”) and an adjustment to the Basic Fee based on the investment performance of the Fund in relation to the investment record of the Russell 2000.
The Basic Fee is a monthly fee equal to 1/12 of 1% (1% on an annualized basis) of the average of the Fund’s month-end net assets for the rolling 36-month period ending with such month (the “performance period”). The Basic Fee for each month is increased or decreased at the rate of 1/12 of .05% for each percentage point that the investment performance of the Fund exceeds, or is exceeded by, the percentage change in the investment record of the Russell 2000 for the performance period by more than two percentage points. The performance period for each such month is a rolling 36-month period ending with such month. The maximum increase or decrease in the Basic Fee for any month may not exceed 1/12 of .5%. Accordingly, for each month, the maximum monthly fee rate as adjusted for performance is 1/12 of 1.5% and is payable if the investment performance of the Fund exceeds the percentage change in the investment record of the Russell 2000 by 12 or more percentage points for the performance period, and the minimum monthly fee rate as adjusted for performance is 1/12 of .5% and is payable if the percentage change in the investment record of the Russell 2000 exceeds the investment performance of the Fund by 12 or more percentage points for the performance period.
For the six rolling 36-month periods ended June 2020, the Fund’s investment performance ranged from 5% above to 1% below the investment performance of the Russell 2000. Accordingly, the net investment advisory fee consisted of a Basic Fee of $1,959,887 and a net upward adjustment of $97,755 for the performance of the Fund relative to that of the Russell 2000. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund expensed Royce investment advisory fees totaling $2,057,642.
Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities:
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the costs of purchases and proceeds from sales of investment securities, other than short-term securities, amounted to $40,697,167 and $38,724,714, respectively.
Cross trades were executed by the Fund pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act. Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which Royce serves as investment adviser. The Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer reviews such transactions each quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7, and reports the results of her review to the Board of Directors. Cross trades for the six months ended June 30, 2020, were as follows:
| COSTS OF PURCHASES | PROCEEDS FROM SALES | REALIZED GAIN (LOSS) |
| $3,540,317 | $ – | $ – |
Subsequent Events:
On July 31, 2020, Franklin Resources, Inc. (“Franklin Resources”) acquired Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”) in an all-cash transaction. Royce was an indirect, majority-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason prior to the transaction. As a result of the transaction, Royce, the investment adviser to the Fund, became an indirect, majority-owned subsidiary of Franklin Resources. Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, consummation of the transaction automatically terminated the investment advisory agreement that was in place for the Fund prior to the transaction (referred to herein as the “Prior Agreement”). Royce continues to provide uninterrupted services to the Fund pursuant to a new investment advisory agreement that was recently approved by Fund stockholders. The terms and conditions of the Fund’s new investment advisory agreement are substantially identical to those of its Prior Agreement. The Fund’s contractual investment advisory fee rate remains the same under its new investment advisory agreement. Royce will continue to operate as an independent investment organization with its own brand after completion of the transaction. There are no changes planned to the management of the organization or investment teams at Royce as a result of the transaction.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 37
MANAGER’S DISCUSSION (UNAUDITED)
Royce Value Trust (RVT)
Chuck Royce
FUND PERFORMANCE
In as extreme and volatile a six-month period as we can recall, Royce Value Trust (“RVT”) held its value better than both of its unleveraged small-cap benchmarks. For the year-date-period ended 6/30/20, the Fund was down 8.9% on an NAV (net asset value) basis and 10.5% based on market price, compared to respective declines of 13.0% and 17.9% for the Russell 2000 and S&P SmallCap 600 Indexes for the same period. We were equally if not more pleased that on an NAV and market price basis, RVT outpaced the Russell 2000 for the one-, three-, five-, 20-, 25-, 30-year, and since inception (11/26/86) periods ended 6/30/20.
WHAT WORKED… AND WHAT DIDN’T
Five of the Fund’s 11 equity sectors made a negative impact on performance in 2020’s first half, with Industrials, Energy, and Financials detracting most. Of the six sectors that made positive contributions, the biggest came from Information Technology, followed by Health Care and Communication Services. At the industry level, energy equipment & services hurt results most, as tumbling oil and gas prices depressed the shares of many companies with exposure to that industry. Four of RVT’s five largest detractors at the position level were exposed to energy to varying degrees.
SEACOR Marine Holdings provides marine and support transportation services to offshore oil and natural gas and wind farm facilities worldwide. When reporting fiscal first-quarter results, the company said that it expects a deeper impact on revenues through the rest of the year as a result of COVID-19 and reduced activity from its oil and gas customers. TGS-NOPEC Geophysical is the world’s largest provider of seismic data to oil and gas developers. While categorized as an energy services stock, its business model is closer to that of a data services provider. We see it as a company built to weather downturns thanks to consistently positive free cash flow. And while spending on seismic is among the first expenses exploration & production (“E&P”) companies cut in downturns, reserves remain the lifeblood of these companies, which makes TGS’s seismic studies vital to reducing costs and improving the success rates of E&P activity. Kirby Corporation, a tank barge operator that transports bulk liquid products across the U.S., saw revenue for the marine transportation business decline substantially in the first quarter of 2020. Citing the COVID-driven global recession, its potential impact on future demand, and volatile industry conditions, Kirby also withdrew full-year earnings guidance in May.
Bandwidth, RVT’s top-contributing position, offers voice-over Internet, integrated phone systems, smartphones, and business-grade Internet connectivity solutions through cloud-based communications. Its shares were lifted by robust revenue growth, especially through its expertise in CPaaS (Communications Platform as a Service), a cloud-based platform that enables developers to add real-time communications features to their own applications without needing to build back-end infrastructure and interfaces. Also contributing was Virgin Galactic Holdings, which develops commercial spacecrafts for eventual space tourist flights and suborbital launches for space science missions. Though still not profitable, the company signed a Space Act Agreement with NASA in early May to produce a supersonic aircraft for non-military applications, which we think bodes well for its future. Based in Toronto, Alamos Gold explores for, and produces, gold from mines in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. Its stock benefited primarily from investor expectations that massive central bank interventions will maintain a supportive environment for gold prices.
Relative to the Russell 2000, RVT’s advantage was driven solely by stock selection—sector allocation was negative. Stock selection gave us a significant relative edge in Financials, as it did in Materials and Consumer Discretionary. By contrast, the Fund’s substantially lower exposure to index-leading Health Care stocks, particularly in biotechnology where our weighting was quite low, hurt relative results the most. Stock selection in Health Care also hindered performance, though to a lesser extent. On a smaller scale, our higher weighting in Energy detracted from first-half relative performance, as did both our lower exposure and stock selection in Consumer Staples.
| | | | | |
| | Top Contributors to Performance | | Top Detractors from Performance | |
| | Year-to-Date Through 6/30/20 (%)1 | | Year-to-Date Through 6/30/20 (%)2 | |
| | | | | |
| | Bandwidth Cl. A | 0.85 | | SEACOR Marine Holdings | -0.55 | |
| | Virgin Galactic Holdings | 0.76 | | TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | -0.46 | |
| | Alamos Gold Cl. A | 0.66 | | Kirby Corporation | -0.46 | |
| | Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 0.64 | | Pason Systems | -0.46 | |
| | Etsy | 0.54 | | ProAssurance Corporation | -0.41 | |
| | 1 Includes dividends | | | 2 Net of dividends | | |
| | | | | | | |
CURRENT POSITIONING AND OUTLOOK
We are seeking to take advantage of two current market dynamics that we believe support active management: high volatility and short-term thinking. While uncertainty about the near-term outlook is real, we expect both the economy and corporate profits to rebound beyond the next several quarters. Our portfolio positioning is still most heavily weighted in cyclical areas, specifically in Industrials and Information Technology. In the former sector, we have several machinery companies while in Information Technology, our largest weightings are in the semiconductors & semiconductor equipment group and the electronic equipment, instruments & components industry. We also maintained a sizable exposure to capital markets stocks in Financials and health care equipment & supplies. We are optimistic about the prospects for small-cap stocks over the intermediate term, particularly those companies with cyclical exposure and/or solid industry positions and better balance sheets. These are the stocks with which we have sought to populate the portfolio.
38 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
| PERFORMANCE AND PORTFOLIO REVIEW (UNAUDITED) | SYMBOLS MARKET PRICE RVT NAV XRVTX |
Performance
Average Annual Total Return (%) Through 6/30/20
| | JAN-JUN 20201 | 1-YR | 3-YR | 5-YR | 10-YR | 15-YR | 20-YR | 25-YR | 30-YR | SINCE INCEPTION (11/26/86) |
| RVT (NAV) | -8.92 | -0.60 | 4.19 | 6.82 | 10.30 | 7.16 | 8.35 | 9.57 | 10.10 | 10.04 |
1 Not Annualized
Market Price Performance History Since Inception (11/26/86)
Cumulative Performance of Investment through 6/30/201
| | 1-YR | 5-YR | 10-YR | 15-YR | 20-YR | SINCE INCEPTION (11/26/86) |
| RVT | -1.5% | 40.1% | 175.9% | 133.0% | 419.5% | 1953.4% |
| 1 | Reflects the cumulative performance of an investment made by a stockholder who purchased one share at inception ($10.00 IPO), reinvested all distributions and fully participated in primary subscriptions of the Fund's rights offerings. |
| 2 | Reflects the actual month-end market price movement of one share as it has traded on the NYSE. |
Morningstar Style Map™ As of 6/30/20
The Morningstar Style Map is the Morningstar Style Box™ with the center 75% of fund holdings plotted as the Morningstar Ownership Zone™. The Morningstar Style Box is designed to reveal a fund’s investment strategy. The Morningstar Ownership Zone provides detail about a portfolio’s investment style by showing the range of stock sizes and styles. The Ownership Zone is derived by plotting each stock in the portfolio within the proprietary Morningstar Style Box. Over time, the shape and location of a fund's ownership zone may vary. See page 66 for additional information.
Top 10 Positions
% of Net Assets
| Quaker Chemical | 2.1 |
| MKS Instruments | 1.9 |
| FLIR Systems | 1.6 |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | 1.4 |
| FirstService Corporation | 1.3 |
| Colfax Corporation | 1.3 |
| Bandwidth Cl. A | 1.2 |
| Brooks Automation | 1.2 |
| Ares Management Cl. A | 1.2 |
| Camping World Holdings Cl. A | 1.1 |
Portfolio Sector Breakdown
% of Net Assets
| Information Technology | 24.9 |
| Industrials | 23.5 |
| Financials | 15.0 |
| Materials | 11.3 |
| Consumer Discretionary | 10.0 |
| Health Care | 6.8 |
| Real Estate | 3.7 |
| Energy | 3.1 |
| Consumer Staples | 2.6 |
| Communication Services | 1.8 |
| Utilities | 0.1 |
| Diversified Investment Companies | 0.0 |
| Outstanding Line of Credit, Net of Cash and Cash Equivalents | -2.8 |
Calendar Year Total Returns (%)
| YEAR | RVT |
| 2019 | 30.5 |
| 2018 | -14.4 |
| 2017 | 19.4 |
| 2016 | 26.8 |
| 2015 | -8.1 |
| 2014 | 0.8 |
| 2013 | 34.1 |
| 2012 | 15.4 |
| 2011 | -10.1 |
| 2010 | 30.3 |
| 2009 | 44.6 |
| 2008 | -45.6 |
| 2007 | 5.0 |
| 2006 | 19.5 |
| 2005 | 8.4 |
Portfolio Diagnostics
| Fund Net Assets | $1,440 million |
| Number of Holdings | 476 |
| Turnover Rate | 18% |
| Net Asset Value | $14.33 |
| Market Price | $12.54 |
| Net Leverage1 | 2.8% |
| Average Market Capitalization 2 | $1,916 million |
| Weighted Average P/E Ratio 3,4 | 21.2x |
| Weighted Average P/B Ratio 3 | 2.2x |
| Active Share 5 | 87% |
| U.S. Investments (% of Net Assets) | 86.6% |
| Non-U.S. Investments (% of Net Assets) | 16.2% |
| 1 | Net leverage is the percentage, in excess of 100%, of the total value of equity type investments, divided by net assets. |
| 2 | Geometric Average. This weighted calculation uses each portfolio holding’s market cap in a way designed to not skew the effect of very large or small holdings; instead, it aims to better identify the portfolio’s center, which Royce believes offers a more accurate measure of average market cap than a simple mean or median. |
| 3 | Harmonic Average. This weighted calculation evaluates a portfolio as if it were a single stock and measures it overall. It compares the total market value of the portfolio to the portfolio’s share in the earnings or book value, as the case may be, of its underlying stocks. |
| 4 | The Fund’s P/E ratio calculation excludes companies with zero or negative earnings (25% of portfolio holdings as of 6/30/20). |
| 5 | Active Share is the sum of the absolute values of the different weightings of each holding in the Fund versus each holding in the benchmark, divided by two. |
Important Performance and Risk Information
All performance information reflects past performance, is presented on a total return basis, net of the Fund’s investment advisory fee, and reflects the reinvestment of distributions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than performance quoted. Returns as of the most recent month-end may be obtained at www.royceinvest.com. Certain immaterial adjustments were made to the net assets of Royce Value Trust at 12/31/16 and 6/30/18 for financial reporting purposes, and as a result the net asset value originally calculated on that date and the total return based on that net asset value differs from the adjusted net asset value and total return reported in the Financial Highlights. The market price of the Fund’s shares will fluctuate, so that shares may be worth more or less than their original cost when sold. The Fund invests primarily in securities of small- and micro-cap companies, which may involve considerably more risk than investing in larger-cap companies. The Fund’s broadly diversified portfolio does not ensure a profit or guarantee against loss. From time to time, the Fund may invest a significant portion of its net assets in foreign securities, which may involve political, economic, currency and other risks not encountered in U.S. investments. Regarding the “Top Contributors” and “Top Detractors” tables shown above, the sum of all contributors to, and all detractors from, performance for all securities in the portfolio would approximate the Fund’s year-to date performance for 2020.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 39
Royce Value Trust
| Schedule of Investments | | | |
| Common Stocks – 102.8% | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| COMMUNICATION SERVICES – 1.8% | | | | | | | | |
| DIVERSIFIED TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES - 1.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Bandwidth Cl. A 1,2,3 | | | 140,900 | | | $ | 17,894,300 | |
| Cogent Communications Holdings 1,2 | | | 18,447 | | | | 1,427,060 | |
| Liberty Latin America Cl. C 1,2,3 | | | 246,300 | | | | 2,325,072 | |
| | | | | | | | 21,646,432 | |
| ENTERTAINMENT - 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| Global Eagle Entertainment 3 | | | 4,400 | | | | 20,856 | |
| Marcus Corporation (The) | | | 6,051 | | | | 80,297 | |
| | | | | | | | 101,153 | |
| INTERACTIVE MEDIA & SERVICES - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| QuinStreet 1,2,3 | | | 180,254 | | | | 1,885,457 | |
| MEDIA - 0.2% | | | | | | | | |
| comScore 1,2,3 | | | 808,910 | | | | 2,507,621 | |
| Gannett Company 3 | | | 190,443 | | | | 262,811 | |
| †TechTarget 3 | | | 800 | | | | 24,024 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,794,456 | |
| Total (Cost $34,532,869) | | | | | | | 26,427,498 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 10.0% | | | | | | | | |
| AUTO COMPONENTS - 1.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Cooper Tire & Rubber | | | 11,800 | | | | 325,798 | |
| Cooper-Standard Holdings 3 | | | 892 | | | | 11,819 | |
| Dorman Products 1,2,3 | | | 6,500 | | | | 435,955 | |
| †Fox Factory Holding 3 | | | 63,600 | | | | 5,253,996 | |
| Garrett Motion 3 | | | 86,149 | | | | 477,265 | |
| Gentex Corporation 1 | | | 98,460 | | | | 2,537,314 | |
| LCI Industries 1,2 | | | 131,935 | | | | 15,169,886 | |
| Standard Motor Products 1,2 | | | 9,494 | | | | 391,153 | |
| Superior Industries International 3 | | | 150,598 | | | | 256,017 | |
| | | | | | | | 24,859,203 | |
| DISTRIBUTORS - 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Core-Mark Holding Company 1,2 | | | 21,368 | | | | 533,239 | |
| LKQ Corporation 1,3 | | | 70,600 | | | | 1,849,720 | |
| Weyco Group 1,2 | | | 97,992 | | | | 2,115,647 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,498,606 | |
| DIVERSIFIED CONSUMER SERVICES - 0.6% | | | | | | | | |
| American Public Education 3 | | | 20,257 | | | | 599,607 | |
| Collectors Universe 1,2 | | | 71,100 | | | | 2,437,308 | |
| Perdoceo Education 3 | | | 22,191 | | | | 353,503 | |
| Regis Corporation 3 | | | 18,020 | | | | 147,404 | |
| Universal Technical Institute 3 | | | 639,032 | | | | 4,441,272 | |
| | | | | | | | 7,979,094 | |
| HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE - 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Century Casinos 3 | | | 44,120 | | | | 183,098 | |
| Lindblad Expeditions Holdings 1,2,3 | | | 415,200 | | | | 3,205,344 | |
| Red Robin Gourmet Burgers 3 | | | 2,900 | | | | 29,580 | |
| Ruth's Hospitality Group | | | 34,877 | | | | 284,596 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,702,618 | |
| HOUSEHOLD DURABLES - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Cavco Industries 1,3 | | | 14,700 | | | | 2,834,895 | |
| Ethan Allen Interiors 1 | | | 158,755 | | | | 1,878,072 | |
| La-Z-Boy | | | 25,579 | | | | 692,168 | |
| Meritage Homes 3 | | | 19,102 | | | | 1,454,044 | |
| Skyline Champion 3 | | | 7,050 | | | | 171,597 | |
| | | | | | | | 7,030,776 | |
| INTERNET & DIRECT MARKETING RETAIL - 1.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Etsy 1,3 | | | 129,800 | | | | 13,788,654 | |
| PetMed Express | | | 16,879 | | | | 601,568 | |
| Shutterstock | | | 25,853 | | | | 904,079 | |
| Stamps.com 3 | | | 51,022 | | | | 9,372,231 | |
| | | | | | | | 24,666,532 | |
| LEISURE PRODUCTS - 0.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Brunswick Corporation | | | 160,300 | | | | 10,260,803 | |
| Johnson Outdoors Cl. A | | | 1,640 | | | | 149,273 | |
| MasterCraft Boat Holdings 3 | | | 23,840 | | | | 454,152 | |
| Sturm, Ruger & Co. | | | 8,915 | | | | 677,540 | |
| | | | | | | | 11,541,768 | |
| SPECIALTY RETAIL - 3.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Abercrombie & Fitch Cl. A | | | 4,033 | | | | 42,911 | |
| America's Car-Mart 1,3 | | | 120,000 | | | | 10,544,400 | |
| AutoCanada | | | 1,238,000 | | | | 9,757,366 | |
| Barnes & Noble Education 3 | | | 91,318 | | | | 146,109 | |
| Buckle (The) | | | 63,550 | | | | 996,464 | |
| Caleres | | | 3,803 | | | | 31,717 | |
| Camping World Holdings Cl. A 1 | | | 606,813 | | | | 16,481,041 | |
| CarMax 3 | | | 7,000 | | | | 626,850 | |
| Cato Corporation (The) Cl. A | | | 63,344 | | | | 518,154 | |
| Chico's FAS | | | 27,436 | | | | 37,862 | |
| Children's Place 3 | | | 1,559 | | | | 58,338 | |
| Genesco 3 | | | 4,412 | | | | 95,564 | |
| Haverty Furniture | | | 28,713 | | | | 459,408 | |
| Hibbett Sports 3 | | | 8,588 | | | | 179,833 | |
| Michaels Companies 3 | | | 139,804 | | | | 988,414 | |
| Monro 1 | | | 2,000 | | | | 109,880 | |
| †OneWater Marine Cl. A 3 | | | 227,100 | | | | 5,513,988 | |
| Rent-A-Center | | | 14,132 | | | | 393,152 | |
| Shoe Carnival 1 | | | 16,360 | | | | 478,857 | |
| Sleep Number 3 | | | 11,632 | | | | 484,356 | |
| Zumiez 3 | | | 15,371 | | | | 420,858 | |
| | | | | | | | 48,365,522 | |
| TEXTILES, APPAREL & LUXURY GOODS - 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Canada Goose Holdings 3 | | | 201,700 | | | | 4,673,389 | |
| Crocs 3 | | | 1,995 | | | | 73,456 | |
| G-III Apparel Group 3 | | | 8,609 | | | | 114,414 | |
| J G Boswell Company 4 | | | 3,940 | | | | 1,922,720 | |
| †Kontoor Brands | | | 7,130 | | | | 126,985 | |
| Movado Group 3 | | | 20,965 | | | | 227,260 | |
| Steven Madden | | | 33,701 | | | | 832,078 | |
| Vera Bradley 3 | | | 31,709 | | | | 140,788 | |
| Wolverine World Wide 1 | | | 114,202 | | | | 2,719,150 | |
| | | | | | | | 10,830,240 | |
| Total (Cost $117,987,703) | | | | | | | 143,474,359 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER STAPLES – 2.6% | | | | | | | | |
| BEVERAGES - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Compania Cervecerias Unidas ADR 1 | | | 64,500 | | | | 923,640 | |
| FOOD & STAPLES RETAILING - 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| SpartanNash Company | | | 5,618 | | | | 119,382 | |
| FOOD PRODUCTS - 1.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Industrias Bachoco ADR Ser. B | | | 8,940 | | | | 314,420 | |
| John B Sanfilippo & Son | | | 5,660 | | | | 482,968 | |
| Nomad Foods 1,3 | | | 143,600 | | | | 3,080,220 | |
| Seneca Foods Cl. A 1,2,3 | | | 238,410 | | | | 8,060,642 | |
| Seneca Foods Cl. B 3 | | | 13,840 | | | | 439,420 | |
| Tootsie Roll Industries 1 | | | 181,756 | | | | 6,228,778 | |
| | | | | | | | 18,606,448 | |
| 40 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
June 30, 2020 (unaudited)
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CONSUMER STAPLES (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Central Garden & Pet 3 | | | 16,733 | | | $ | 602,221 | |
| WD-40 Company | | | 2,263 | | | | 448,753 | |
| | | | | | | | 1,050,974 | |
| PERSONAL PRODUCTS - 1.1% | | | | | | | | |
| †BellRing Brands Cl. A 3 | | | 193,500 | | | | 3,858,390 | |
| †e.l.f. Beauty 3 | | | 409,500 | | | | 7,809,165 | |
| Inter Parfums 1 | | | 89,545 | | | | 4,311,592 | |
| USANA Health Sciences 3 | | | 3,038 | | | | 223,080 | |
| | | | | | | | 16,202,227 | |
| TOBACCO - 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| Universal Corporation | | | 14,694 | | | | 624,642 | |
| †Vector Group | | | 12,235 | | | | 123,084 | |
| | | | | | | | 747,726 | |
| Total (Cost $29,105,863) | | | | | | | 37,650,397 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| DIVERSIFIED INVESTMENT COMPANIES – 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| CLOSED-END FUNDS - 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| †Eagle Point Credit | | | 42,054 | | | | 299,004 | |
| Eagle Point Income | | | 44 | | | | 570 | |
| Total (Cost $371,754) | | | | | | | 299,574 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY – 3.1% | | | | | | | | |
| ENERGY EQUIPMENT & SERVICES - 2.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Bristow Group 3 | | | 240,774 | | | | 3,353,982 | |
| Computer Modelling Group | | | 1,333,624 | | | | 4,666,112 | |
| Diamond Offshore Drilling 3,4 | | | 89,000 | | | | 22,757 | |
| †DMC Global | | | 1,983 | | | | 54,731 | |
| Forum Energy Technologies 3 | | | 249,431 | | | | 131,725 | |
| Helmerich & Payne 1,2 | | | 94,000 | | | | 1,833,940 | |
| KLX Energy Services Holdings 3 | | | 15,746 | | | | 33,854 | |
| Matrix Service 3 | | | 34,471 | | | | 335,058 | |
| Newpark Resources 3 | | | 67,354 | | | | 150,199 | |
| Oil States International 3 | | | 18,753 | | | | 89,077 | |
| Pason Systems | | | 1,065,830 | | | | 5,825,323 | |
| ProPetro Holding 3 | | | 61,052 | | | | 313,807 | |
| SEACOR Holdings 1,2,3 | | | 270,450 | | | | 7,659,144 | |
| SEACOR Marine Holdings 1,3 | | | 400,190 | | | | 1,020,484 | |
| TGS-NOPEC Geophysical | | | 447,760 | | | | 6,495,749 | |
| | | | | | | | 31,985,942 | |
| OIL, GAS & CONSUMABLE FUELS - 0.9% | | | | | | | | |
| Bonanza Creek Energy 3 | | | 41,687 | | | | 617,801 | |
| Callon Petroleum 3 | | | 63,252 | | | | 72,740 | |
| CONSOL Energy 3 | | | 110,037 | | | | 557,888 | |
| Dorchester Minerals L.P. 1 | | | 279,148 | | | | 3,567,511 | |
| Dorian LPG 3 | | | 394,936 | | | | 3,056,805 | |
| REX American Resources 3 | | | 6,946 | | | | 481,844 | |
| San Juan Basin Royalty Trust | | | 212,272 | | | | 483,980 | |
| †Talos Energy 3 | | | 13,626 | | | | 125,359 | |
| World Fuel Services 1 | | | 100,913 | | | | 2,599,519 | |
| WPX Energy 1,2,3 | | | 110,000 | | | | 701,800 | |
| | | | | | | | 12,265,247 | |
| Total (Cost $92,832,315) | | | | | | | 44,251,189 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| FINANCIALS – 15.0% | | | | | | | | |
| BANKS - 2.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Ameris Bancorp | | | 6,385 | | | | 150,622 | |
| Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son 1 | | | 258,416 | | | | 6,302,766 | |
| Boston Private Financial Holdings | | | 45,074 | | | | 310,109 | |
| †Cadence Bancorporation Cl. A | | | 15,397 | | | | 136,417 | |
| Canadian Western Bank | | | 279,500 | | | | 4,869,015 | |
| CIT Group | | | 22,000 | | | | 456,060 | |
| Customers Bancorp 3 | | | 10,603 | | | | 127,448 | |
| Dime Community Bancshares | | | 2,577 | | | | 35,382 | |
| Eagle Bancorp | | | 23,798 | | | | 779,385 | |
| Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach 4 | | | 730 | | | | 4,326,710 | |
| Fauquier Bankshares 1 | | | 160,800 | | | | 2,395,920 | |
| First BanCorp | | | 127,777 | | | | 714,273 | |
| First Citizens BancShares Cl. A | | | 16,376 | | | | 6,632,608 | |
| First Commonwealth Financial | | | 37,289 | | | | 308,753 | |
| First Financial Bancorp | | | 44,124 | | | | 612,882 | |
| First Midwest Bancorp | | | 23,914 | | | | 319,252 | |
| Franklin Financial Network | | | 1,256 | | | | 32,342 | |
| Great Western Bancorp | | | 34,227 | | | | 470,964 | |
| Hanmi Financial | | | 11,849 | | | | 115,054 | |
| HarborOne Bancorp 3 | | | 63,400 | | | | 541,436 | |
| † HBT Financial | | | 5,000 | | | | 66,650 | |
| HomeTrust Bancshares | | | 23,700 | | | | 379,200 | |
| † Pacific Premier Bancorp | | | 14,212 | | | | 308,116 | |
| Preferred Bank | | | 17,803 | | | | 762,859 | |
| Prosperity Bancshares | | | 6,614 | | | | 392,739 | |
| Webster Financial 1 | | | 182,400 | | | | 5,218,464 | |
| † Wintrust Financial | | | 6,000 | | | | 261,720 | |
| | | | | | | | 37,027,146 | |
| CAPITAL MARKETS - 7.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Ares Management Cl. A 1 | | | 432,194 | | | | 17,158,102 | |
| Artisan Partners Asset Management Cl. A 1 | | | 114,820 | | | | 3,731,650 | |
| ASA Gold and Precious Metals | | | 199,821 | | | | 3,500,864 | |
| Ashmore Group | | | 548,400 | | | | 2,830,623 | |
| Blucora 3 | | | 5,600 | | | | 63,952 | |
| Bolsa Mexicana de Valores | | | 1,723,106 | | | | 3,228,879 | |
| † Fiera Capital Cl. A | | | 59,500 | | | | 416,360 | |
| Focus Financial Partners Cl. A 1,2,3 | | | 50,000 | | | | 1,652,500 | |
| Garrison Capital | | | 17,126 | | | | 57,886 | |
| Golub Capital BDC | | | 2,354 | | | | 27,424 | |
| Houlihan Lokey Cl. A 1 | | | 54,000 | | | | 3,004,560 | |
| Lazard Cl. A 1 | | | 124,625 | | | | 3,568,014 | |
| MarketAxess Holdings | | | 14,200 | | | | 7,113,064 | |
| Moelis & Company Cl. A | | | 21,000 | | | | 654,360 | |
| Morningstar 1 | | | 84,600 | | | | 11,926,062 | |
| MVC Capital | | | 195,688 | | | | 1,277,842 | |
| Oaktree Strategic Income | | | 4,133 | | | | 26,203 | |
| Qalaa Holdings 3 | | | 7,749,921 | | | | 662,632 | |
| Rothschild & Co 3 | | | 50,293 | | | | 1,213,840 | |
| SEI Investments 1 | | | 197,600 | | | | 10,864,048 | |
| Sprott | | | 256,480 | | | | 9,217,486 | |
| Tel Aviv Stock Exchange | | | 332,179 | | | | 1,489,465 | |
| TMX Group | | | 76,000 | | | | 7,514,349 | |
| Value Partners Group | | | 5,453,000 | | | | 2,787,204 | |
| Virtu Financial Cl. A 1,2 | | | 478,100 | | | | 11,283,160 | |
| Waddell & Reed Financial Cl. A | | | 85,176 | | | | 1,321,080 | |
| | | | | | | | 106,591,609 | |
| CONSUMER FINANCE - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Enova International 3 | | | 48,849 | | | | 726,385 | |
| DIVERSIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior Cl. E | | | 23,700 | | | | 272,550 | |
| ECN Capital | | | 135,100 | | | | 384,123 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 41 |
Royce Value Trust
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| FINANCIALS (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| DIVERSIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| First Pacific | | | 1,020,000 | | | $ | 196,023 | |
| Onex Corporation | | | 9,200 | | | | 415,613 | |
| Waterloo Investment Holdings 3,5 | | | 2,972,000 | | | | 743,000 | |
| | | | | | | | 2,011,309 | |
| INSURANCE - 3.0% | | | | | | | | |
| Alleghany Corporation | | | 350 | | | | 171,199 | |
| Ambac Financial Group 3 | | | 63,534 | | | | 909,807 | |
| American Equity Investment Life Holding | | | 3,163 | | | | 78,158 | |
| Assured Guaranty | | | 40,900 | | | | 998,369 | |
| eHealth 3 | | | 20,700 | | | | 2,033,568 | |
| E-L Financial | | | 21,650 | | | | 10,561,870 | |
| Employers Holdings | | | 23,729 | | | | 715,429 | |
| Erie Indemnity Cl. A | | | 28,200 | | | | 5,411,580 | |
| FBL Financial Group Cl. A | | | 8,930 | | | | 320,498 | |
| Fidelity National Financial | | | 446 | | | | 13,674 | |
| Independence Holding Company 1 | | | 210,523 | | | | 6,439,899 | |
| ProAssurance Corporation 1 | | | 239,901 | | | | 3,471,368 | |
| RLI Corp. 1,2 | | | 41,670 | | | | 3,421,107 | |
| Stewart Information Services | | | 9,895 | | | | 321,686 | |
| Third Point Reinsurance 3 | | | 10,476 | | | | 78,675 | |
| Trupanion 1,2,3 | | | 170,399 | | | | 7,274,333 | |
| Universal Insurance Holdings | | | 35,980 | | | | 638,645 | |
| | | | | | | | 42,859,865 | |
| INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| †Jaws Acquisition (Units) 3 | | | 150,000 | | | | 1,564,500 | |
| Oaktree Acquisition (Units) 3 | | | 800,000 | | | | 8,560,000 | |
| | | | | | | | 10,124,500 | |
| THRIFTS & MORTGAGE FINANCE - 1.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Axos Financial 1,2,3 | | | 35,731 | | | | 788,941 | |
| †Essent Group | | | 10,000 | | | | 362,700 | |
| Flagstar Bancorp | | | 31,807 | | | | 936,080 | |
| Genworth MI Canada | | | 239,755 | | | | 5,864,955 | |
| Meridian Bancorp 1 | | | 47,500 | | | | 551,000 | |
| Meta Financial Group | | | 1,665 | | | | 30,253 | |
| NMI Holdings Cl. A 3 | | | 68,714 | | | | 1,104,921 | |
| † PennyMac Financial Services | | | 10,000 | | | | 417,900 | |
| Provident Bancorp | | | 63,200 | | | | 496,752 | |
| Territorial Bancorp | | | 9,300 | | | | 221,247 | |
| Timberland Bancorp 1 | | | 274,457 | | | | 4,997,862 | |
| Vestin Realty Mortgage II 3,4 | | | 34 | | | | 37,400 | |
| Walker & Dunlop | | | 12,700 | | | | 645,287 | |
| | | | | | | | 16,455,298 | |
| Total (Cost $196,348,717) | | | | | | | 215,796,112 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| HEALTH CARE – 6.8% | | | | | | | | |
| BIOTECHNOLOGY - 1.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Acorda Therapeutics 3 | | | 18,079 | | | | 13,281 | |
| Anika Therapeutics 3 | | | 13,046 | | | | 492,226 | |
| BioSpecifics Technologies 3 | | | 2,630 | | | | 161,166 | |
| †Catalyst Pharmaceuticals 3 | | | 34,550 | | | | 159,621 | |
| †Coherus BioSciences 3 | | | 7,500 | | | | 133,950 | |
| Eagle Pharmaceuticals 3 | | | 13,906 | | | | 667,210 | |
| Emergent BioSolutions 3 | | | 830 | | | | 65,636 | |
| Enanta Pharmaceuticals 3 | | | 9,698 | | | | 486,937 | |
| Pfenex 3 | | | 16,947 | | | | 141,507 | |
| Sangamo Therapeutics 1,2,3 | | | 65,815 | | | | 589,702 | |
| Vanda Pharmaceuticals 3 | | | 30,872 | | | | 353,176 | |
| Zealand Pharma 3 | | | 408,857 | | | | 14,073,606 | |
| | | | | | | | 17,338,018 | |
| HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - 4.0% | | | | | | | | |
| Atrion Corporation | | | 13,891 | | | | 8,848,706 | |
| †BioLife Solutions 3 | | | 297,500 | | | | 4,864,125 | |
| Haemonetics 3 | | | 117,200 | | | | 10,496,432 | |
| Inogen 3 | | | 7,877 | | | | 279,791 | |
| Integer Holdings 1,2,3 | | | 42,400 | | | | 3,097,320 | |
| Masimo Corporation 1,3 | | | 30,000 | | | | 6,839,700 | |
| Meridian Bioscience 3 | | | 75,206 | | | | 1,751,548 | |
| Mesa Laboratories 1 | | | 53,900 | | | | 11,685,520 | |
| Natus Medical 3 | | | 5,780 | | | | 126,119 | |
| Neogen Corporation 1,2,3 | | | 23,481 | | | | 1,822,126 | |
| OraSure Technologies 3 | | | 22,352 | | | | 259,954 | |
| Surmodics 1,3 | | | 161,000 | | | | 6,961,640 | |
| | | | | | | | 57,032,981 | |
| HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS & SERVICES - 0.4% | | | | | | | | |
| AMN Healthcare Services 3 | | | 936 | | | | 42,345 | |
| Community Health Systems 3 | | | 790,000 | | | | 2,377,900 | |
| CorVel Corporation 3 | | | 2,864 | | | | 203,029 | |
| Ensign Group (The) | | | 872 | | | | 36,493 | |
| HealthEquity 3 | | | 20,000 | | | | 1,173,400 | |
| Magellan Health 3 | | | 16,980 | | | | 1,239,200 | |
| Pennant Group 3 | | | 436 | | | | 9,854 | |
| RadNet 3 | | | 4,582 | | | | 72,716 | |
| Tivity Health 3 | | | 4,169 | | | | 47,235 | |
| U.S. Physical Therapy | | | 6,619 | | | | 536,271 | |
| | | | | | | | 5,738,443 | |
| HEALTH CARE TECHNOLOGY - 0.2% | | | | | | | | |
| HealthStream 3 | | | 7,060 | | | | 156,238 | |
| †NextGen Healthcare 3 | | | 19,477 | | | | 213,857 | |
| Simulations Plus | | | 46,980 | | | | 2,810,344 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,180,439 | |
| LIFE SCIENCES TOOLS & SERVICES - 0.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Bio-Rad Laboratories Cl. A 3 | | | 17,129 | | | | 7,733,572 | |
| Bio-Techne 1 | | | 10,423 | | | | 2,752,402 | |
| Medpace Holdings 3 | | | 4,167 | | | | 387,614 | |
| | | | | | | | 10,873,588 | |
| PHARMACEUTICALS - 0.3% | | | | | | | | |
| AMAG Pharmaceuticals 1,2,3 | | | 7,412 | | | | 56,702 | |
| Assertio Holdings 3 | | | 156,932 | | | | 134,491 | |
| Corcept Therapeutics 3 | | | 60,375 | | | | 1,015,507 | |
| Innoviva 3 | | | 72,352 | | | | 1,011,481 | |
| Lannett Company 3 | | | 63,366 | | | | 460,037 | |
| Supernus Pharmaceuticals 3 | | | 26,084 | | | | 619,495 | |
| Theravance Biopharma 1,2,3 | | | 34,291 | | | | 719,768 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,017,481 | |
| Total (Cost $65,659,892) | | | | | | | 98,180,950 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS – 23.5% | | | | | | | | |
| AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 1.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings 3 | | | 12,746 | | | | 505,251 | |
| Ducommun 1,3 | | | 79,100 | | | | 2,758,217 | |
| HEICO Corporation 1 | | | 99,400 | | | | 9,905,210 | |
| HEICO Corporation Cl. A 1 | | | 75,926 | | | | 6,168,228 | |
| Magellan Aerospace | | | 96,800 | | | | 514,803 | |
| National Presto Industries | | | 10,060 | | | | 879,143 | |
| Park Aerospace | | | 13,847 | | | | 154,256 | |
| 42 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
June 30, 2020 (unaudited)
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INDUSTRIALS (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| AEROSPACE & DEFENSE (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| Vectrus 3 | | | 6,600 | | | $ | 324,258 | |
| Virgin Galactic Holdings 1,2,3 | | | 215,918 | | | | 3,528,100 | |
| | | | | | | | 24,737,466 | |
| AIR FREIGHT & LOGISTICS - 0.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Echo Global Logistics 3 | | | 38,931 | | | | 841,688 | |
| Forward Air 1,2 | | | 140,825 | | | | 7,015,902 | |
| Hub Group Cl. A 3 | | | 2,184 | | | | 104,526 | |
| | | | | | | | 7,962,116 | |
| BUILDING PRODUCTS - 1.3% | | | | | | | | |
| American Woodmark 3 | | | 6,364 | | | | 481,437 | |
| Apogee Enterprises | | | 5,381 | | | | 123,978 | |
| Burnham Holdings Cl. B 4 | | | 36,000 | | | | 361,800 | |
| Gibraltar Industries 3 | | | 107,620 | | | | 5,166,836 | |
| Insteel Industries | | | 5,559 | | | | 106,010 | |
| Patrick Industries 1,2 | | | 104,105 | | | | 6,376,431 | |
| PGT Innovations 3 | | | 11,783 | | | | 184,757 | |
| Quanex Building Products | | | 46,758 | | | | 649,001 | |
| Simpson Manufacturing 1 | | | 48,662 | | | | 4,105,126 | |
| Trex Company 3 | | | 564 | | | | 73,360 | |
| UFP Industries | | | 14,897 | | | | 737,551 | |
| | | | | | | | 18,366,287 | |
| COMMERCIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES - 1.7% | | | | | | | | |
| CompX International Cl. A 1 | | | 211,100 | | | | 2,917,402 | |
| Harsco Corporation 3 | | | 343,900 | | | | 4,646,089 | |
| Heritage-Crystal Clean 1,2,3 | | | 100,106 | | | | 1,747,851 | |
| Kimball International Cl. B 1 | | | 248,950 | | | | 2,877,862 | |
| MSA Safety | | | 400 | | | | 45,776 | |
| PICO Holdings 1,2,3 | | | 406,960 | | | | 3,430,673 | |
| Pitney Bowes | | | 145,515 | | | | 378,339 | |
| Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers 1,2 | | | 62,900 | | | | 2,569,465 | |
| Tetra Tech | | | 6,388 | | | | 505,418 | |
| UniFirst Corporation | | | 31,007 | | | | 5,548,703 | |
| US Ecology | | | 4,915 | | | | 166,520 | |
| | | | | | | | 24,834,098 | |
| CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING - 3.2% | | | | | | | | |
| †APi Group 3 | | | 328,500 | | | | 3,991,275 | |
| Arcosa 1 | | | 188,926 | | | | 7,972,677 | |
| Comfort Systems USA 1 | | | 85,600 | | | | 3,488,200 | |
| EMCOR Group | | | 19,700 | | | | 1,302,958 | |
| IES Holdings 1,2,3 | | | 594,244 | | | | 13,768,634 | |
| Infrastructure and Energy Alternatives 3 | | | 600,000 | | | | 2,388,000 | |
| Jacobs Engineering Group 1,2 | | | 83,500 | | | | 7,080,800 | |
| Northwest Pipe 3 | | | 4,800 | | | | 120,336 | |
| Sterling Construction 1,3 | | | 16,418 | | | | 171,896 | |
| Valmont Industries 1 | | | 48,261 | | | | 5,483,415 | |
| | | | | | | | 45,768,191 | |
| ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT - 1.0% | | | | | | | | |
| AZZ | | | 5,573 | | | | 191,265 | |
| Encore Wire | | | 14,313 | | | | 698,761 | |
| LSI Industries | | | 814,857 | | | | 5,272,125 | |
| Powell Industries 1,2 | | | 101,805 | | | | 2,788,439 | |
| Preformed Line Products 1 | | | 91,600 | | | | 4,580,916 | |
| Sensata Technologies Holding 3 | | | 9,400 | | | | 349,962 | |
| | | | | | | | 13,881,468 | |
| INDUSTRIAL CONGLOMERATES - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| Carlisle Companies | | | 2,700 | | | | 323,109 | |
| Raven Industries 1 | | | 309,525 | | | | 6,657,883 | |
| | | | | | | | 6,980,992 | |
| MACHINERY - 8.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Albany International Cl. A | | | 1,526 | | | | 89,591 | |
| CIRCOR International 3 | | | 504,633 | | | | 12,858,049 | |
| Colfax Corporation 1,2,3 | | | 671,512 | | | | 18,735,185 | |
| ESCO Technologies 1 | | | 39,210 | | | | 3,314,421 | |
| Franklin Electric 1,2 | | | 83,100 | | | | 4,364,412 | |
| Helios Technologies 1 | | | 237,714 | | | | 8,854,847 | |
| Hillenbrand | | | 37,093 | | | | 1,004,108 | |
| John Bean Technologies 1,2 | | | 131,771 | | | | 11,334,941 | |
| Kadant 1 | | | 130,259 | | | | 12,981,612 | |
| Lincoln Electric Holdings 1 | | | 52,600 | | | | 4,431,024 | |
| Lindsay Corporation 1,2 | | | 112,000 | | | | 10,327,520 | |
| Lydall 3 | | | 17,784 | | | | 241,151 | |
| Meritor 3 | | | 26,710 | | | | 528,858 | |
| †Miller Industries | | | 16,500 | | | | 491,205 | |
| Mueller Industries | | | 43,976 | | | | 1,168,882 | |
| NN 3 | | | 308,700 | | | | 1,463,238 | |
| Nordson Corporation 1,2 | | | 23,096 | | | | 4,381,542 | |
| Standex International | | | 624 | | | | 35,911 | |
| Tennant Company 1,2 | | | 158,204 | | | | 10,284,842 | |
| Wabash National | | | 73,542 | | | | 781,016 | |
| Watts Water Technologies Cl. A 1,2 | | | 57,900 | | | | 4,689,900 | |
| Woodward 1,2 | | | 72,500 | | | | 5,622,375 | |
| | | | | | | | 117,984,630 | |
| MARINE - 1.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Clarkson 3 | | | 451,500 | | | | 12,589,908 | |
| Eagle Bulk Shipping 3 | | | 320,478 | | | | 701,847 | |
| Kirby Corporation 1,3 | | | 189,000 | | | | 10,122,840 | |
| | | | | | | | 23,414,595 | |
| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - 1.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Exponent 1 | | | 96,000 | | | | 7,769,280 | |
| Forrester Research 1,2,3 | | | 69,417 | | | | 2,224,121 | |
| Heidrick & Struggles International | | | 54,387 | | | | 1,175,847 | |
| Kelly Services Cl. A | | | 7,419 | | | | 117,331 | |
| Korn Ferry 1,2 | | | 102,620 | | | | 3,153,512 | |
| ManpowerGroup 1 | | | 7,100 | | | | 488,125 | |
| Morneau Shepell | | | 17,500 | | | | 408,497 | |
| Resources Connection | | | 20,295 | | | | 242,931 | |
| TrueBlue 1,2,3 | | | 46,895 | | | | 716,087 | |
| Upwork 3 | | | 300,000 | | | | 4,332,000 | |
| | | | | | | | 20,627,731 | |
| ROAD & RAIL - 1.0% | | | | | | | | |
| ArcBest | | | 25,849 | | | | 685,257 | |
| Landstar System 1,2 | | | 115,812 | | | | 13,006,846 | |
| Patriot Transportation Holding 1 | | | 139,100 | | | | 1,168,440 | |
| Saia 1,2,3 | | | 1,794 | | | | 199,457 | |
| | | | | | | | 15,060,000 | |
| TRADING COMPANIES & DISTRIBUTORS - 1.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Air Lease Cl. A 1,2 | | | 106,800 | | | | 3,128,172 | |
| Applied Industrial Technologies | | | 9,758 | | | | 608,801 | |
| BMC Stock Holdings 3 | | | 122,900 | | | | 3,089,706 | |
| EVI Industries 1,2,3 | | | 69,873 | | | | 1,516,943 | |
| GMS 3 | | | 40,518 | | | | 996,338 | |
| Houston Wire & Cable 3,6 | | | 877,363 | | | | 2,070,577 | |
| Richelieu Hardware | | | 88,400 | | | | 1,880,518 | |
| SiteOne Landscape Supply 1,2,3 | | | 25,000 | | | | 2,849,250 | |
| Watsco 1,2 | | | 13,300 | | | | 2,363,410 | |
| | | | | | | | 18,503,715 | |
| Total (Cost $275,558,989) | | | | | | | 338,121,289 | |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 43 |
Royce Value Trust
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 24.9% | | | | | | | | |
| COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT - 0.2% | | | | | | | | |
| ADTRAN 1,2 | | | 214,973 | | | $ | 2,349,655 | |
| CalAmp Corporation 3 | | | 24,919 | | | | 199,601 | |
| Comtech Telecommunications | | | 27,350 | | | | 461,942 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,011,198 | |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 9.3% | | | | | | | | |
| Badger Meter | | | 3,560 | | | | 223,995 | |
| Benchmark Electronics | | | 20,983 | | | | 453,233 | |
| Cognex Corporation 1,2 | | | 255,100 | | | | 15,234,572 | |
| Coherent 3 | | | 92,870 | | | | 12,164,113 | |
| Fabrinet 1,2,3 | | | 174,363 | | | | 10,883,738 | |
| FARO Technologies 1,3 | | | 274,197 | | | | 14,696,959 | |
| FLIR Systems 1 | | | 578,937 | | | | 23,487,474 | |
| Insight Enterprises 1,2,3 | | | 26,991 | | | | 1,327,957 | |
| IPG Photonics 3 | | | 51,800 | | | | 8,308,202 | |
| Kimball Electronics 3 | | | 23,387 | | | | 316,660 | |
| Littelfuse 1,2 | | | 44,700 | | | | 7,627,161 | |
| Methode Electronics | | | 3,783 | | | | 118,257 | |
| National Instruments 1 | | | 235,650 | | | | 9,122,012 | |
| nLIGHT 1,2,3 | | | 162,460 | | | | 3,616,360 | |
| OSI Systems 3 | | | 2,270 | | | | 169,433 | |
| PAR Technology 1,2,3 | | | 290,239 | | | | 8,686,853 | |
| Plexus Corporation 3 | | | 1,408 | | | | 99,348 | |
| Richardson Electronics 6 | | | 711,475 | | | | 2,874,359 | |
| Rogers Corporation 3 | | | 62,700 | | | | 7,812,420 | |
| Sanmina Corporation 3 | | | 14,049 | | | | 351,787 | |
| ScanSource 3 | | | 3,739 | | | | 90,073 | |
| TTM Technologies 1,2,3 | | | 581,642 | | | | 6,898,274 | |
| Vishay Intertechnology | | | 11,020 | | | | 168,275 | |
| Vishay Precision Group 3 | | | 8,160 | | | | 200,573 | |
| | | | | | | | 134,932,088 | |
| INTERNET SOFTWARE & SERVICES - 0.5% | | | | | | | | |
| IAC/InterActiveCorp 3 | | | 21,000 | | | | 6,791,400 | |
| IT SERVICES - 1.9% | | | | | | | | |
| Cardtronics 3 | | | 20,118 | | | | 482,429 | |
| †Cass Information Systems | | | 4,100 | | | | 160,023 | |
| Computer Services 4 | | | 45,794 | | | | 2,427,082 | |
| CSG Systems International | | | 12,027 | | | | 497,797 | |
| EVERTEC | | | 29,338 | | | | 824,398 | |
| †ExlService Holdings 3 | | | 1,297 | | | | 82,230 | |
| Hackett Group (The) 1 | | | 285,266 | | | | 3,862,502 | |
| †International Money Express 3 | | | 18,613 | | | | 231,918 | |
| KBR 1 | | | 647,400 | | | | 14,598,870 | |
| ManTech International Cl. A | | | 3,384 | | | | 231,770 | |
| MAXIMUS | | | 2,500 | | | | 176,125 | |
| Unisys Corporation 1,2,3 | | | 360,000 | | | | 3,927,600 | |
| | | | | | | | 27,502,744 | |
| SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 7.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Advanced Energy Industries 1,3 | | | 8,346 | | | | 565,775 | |
| Axcelis Technologies 3 | | | 11,100 | | | | 309,135 | |
| Brooks Automation 1,2 | | | 389,600 | | | | 17,235,904 | |
| Cabot Microelectronics 1 | | | 62,588 | | | | 8,733,529 | |
| Cirrus Logic 1,3 | | | 250,700 | | | | 15,488,246 | |
| Cohu | | | 8,740 | | | | 151,552 | |
| Diodes 1,2,3 | | | 241,037 | | | | 12,220,576 | |
| Entegris 1 | | | 198,400 | | | | 11,715,520 | |
| Ichor Holdings 3 | | | 13,168 | | | | 350,005 | |
| Kulicke & Soffa Industries 1 | | | 38,462 | | | | 801,163 | |
| Lattice Semiconductor 3 | | | 202,500 | | | | 5,748,975 | |
| MKS Instruments 1 | | | 243,329 | | | | 27,554,576 | |
| Nova Measuring Instruments 1,3 | | | 44,220 | | | | 2,130,962 | |
| Onto Innovation 1,2,3 | | | 14,919 | | | | 507,843 | |
| Photronics 3 | | | 183,700 | | | | 2,044,581 | |
| Power Integrations | | | 812 | | | | 95,922 | |
| Rambus 3 | | | 68,796 | | | | 1,045,699 | |
| Silicon Motion Technology ADR 1 | | | 2,370 | | | | 115,585 | |
| SMART Global Holdings 3 | | | 26,992 | | | | 733,643 | |
| SolarEdge Technologies 3 | | | 8,494 | | | | 1,178,797 | |
| Ultra Clean Holdings 3 | | | 14,404 | | | | 325,963 | |
| | | | | | | | 109,053,951 | |
| SOFTWARE - 5.4% | | | | | | | | |
| Descartes Systems Group (The) 1,2,3 | | | 233,600 | | | | 12,357,440 | |
| †Dropbox Cl. A 3 | | | 178,400 | | | | 3,883,768 | |
| Ebix | | | 3,511 | | | | 78,506 | |
| †Elastic 1,3 | | | 82,300 | | | | 7,588,883 | |
| †Everbridge 3 | | | 60,000 | | | | 8,301,600 | |
| j2 Global 1,2,3 | | | 23,585 | | | | 1,490,808 | |
| Manhattan Associates 1,2,3 | | | 146,400 | | | | 13,790,880 | |
| Progress Software | | | 9,887 | | | | 383,121 | |
| RealNetworks 3 | | | 109,950 | | | | 142,935 | |
| SVMK 1,3 | | | 600,600 | | | | 14,138,124 | |
| Upland Software 1,2,3 | | | 452,800 | | | | 15,739,328 | |
| Xperi Holding 1 | | | 5,569 | | | | 82,198 | |
| | | | | | | | 77,977,591 | |
| Total (Cost $259,313,267) | | | | | | | 359,268,972 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| MATERIALS – 11.3% | | | | | | | | |
| CHEMICALS - 5.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Chase Corporation 1,2 | | | 79,059 | | | | 8,103,547 | |
| Element Solutions 1,3 | | | 872,800 | | | | 9,469,880 | |
| FutureFuel Corporation | | | 592,746 | | | | 7,083,315 | |
| Hawkins 1 | | | 87,082 | | | | 3,707,951 | |
| Huntsman Corporation | | | 25,500 | | | | 458,235 | |
| Innospec 1 | | | 98,083 | | | | 7,576,912 | |
| Minerals Technologies 1,2 | | | 201,449 | | | | 9,454,002 | |
| NewMarket Corporation | | | 8,000 | | | | 3,203,840 | |
| Quaker Chemical | | | 165,909 | | | | 30,801,006 | |
| Stepan Company | | | 2,760 | | | | 267,996 | |
| Tredegar Corporation | | | 10,662 | | | | 164,195 | |
| Trinseo | | | 24,902 | | | | 551,828 | |
| | | | | | | | 80,842,707 | |
| CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - 0.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Imerys | | | 90,000 | | | | 3,062,978 | |
| U.S. Concrete 3 | | | 6,620 | | | | 164,176 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,227,154 | |
| CONTAINERS & PACKAGING - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| Myers Industries | | | 37,846 | | | | 550,659 | |
| UFP Technologies 3 | | | 2,860 | | | | 126,012 | |
| | | | | | | | 676,671 | |
| METALS & MINING - 4.8% | | | | | | | | |
| Alamos Gold Cl. A | | | 2,091,300 | | | | 19,501,958 | |
| Ferroglobe (Warranty Insurance Trust) 3,5 | | | 49,300 | | | | 0 | |
| Gold Fields ADR | | | 370,000 | | | | 3,478,000 | |
| Haynes International 1 | | | 113,900 | | | | 2,660,704 | |
| Hecla Mining | | | 321,300 | | | | 1,050,651 | |
| IAMGOLD Corporation 3 | | | 600,000 | | | | 2,370,000 | |
| Lundin Mining | | | 640,000 | | | | 3,431,939 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| 44 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
June 30, 2020 (unaudited)
| Schedule of Investments (continued) | | | |
| | | SHARES | | | VALUE | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| MATERIALS (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| METALS & MINING (continued) | | | | | | | | |
| MAG Silver 3 | | | 198,900 | | | $ | 2,804,490 | |
| Major Drilling Group International 3 | | | 2,217,291 | | | | 7,006,613 | |
| Materion Corporation | | | 3,794 | | | | 233,293 | |
| Pan American Silver | | | 124,627 | | | | 3,787,415 | |
| Pretium Resources 3 | | | 101,000 | | | | 845,138 | |
| Reliance Steel & Aluminum 1 | | | 65,000 | | | | 6,170,450 | |
| Royal Gold 1 | | | 16,600 | | | | 2,063,712 | |
| SunCoke Energy | | | 70,273 | | | | 208,008 | |
| Synalloy Corporation 1,2,3 | | | 178,800 | | | | 1,337,424 | |
| VanEck Vectors Junior Gold Miners ETF | | | 183,000 | | | | 9,073,140 | |
| Warrior Met Coal | | | 44,383 | | | | 683,054 | |
| Worthington Industries 1 | | | 80,400 | | | | 2,998,920 | |
| | | | | | | | 69,704,909 | |
| PAPER & FOREST PRODUCTS - 0.6% | | | | | | | | |
| Boise Cascade | | | 28,387 | | | | 1,067,635 | |
| Mercer International | | | 84,658 | | | | 690,809 | |
| Schweitzer-Mauduit International | | | 31,106 | | | | 1,039,252 | |
| Stella-Jones | | | 221,658 | | | | 5,574,104 | |
| | | | | | | | 8,371,800 | |
| Total (Cost $134,288,984) | | | | | | | 162,823,241 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| REAL ESTATE – 3.7% | | | | | | | | |
| EQUITY REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) - 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| New York REIT 3,5 | | | 15,000 | | | | 190,500 | |
| REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT - 3.7% | | | | | | | | |
| Colliers International Group | | | 15,000 | | | | 859,650 | |
| FirstService Corporation | | | 190,950 | | | | 19,238,213 | |
| FRP Holdings 1,3 | | | 76,558 | | | | 3,106,724 | |
| Jones Lang LaSalle 3 | | | 13,353 | | | | 1,381,501 | |
| Kennedy-Wilson Holdings 1 | | | 474,164 | | | | 7,216,776 | |
| Marcus & Millichap 1,2,3 | | | 261,542 | | | | 7,548,102 | |
| RMR Group (The) Cl. A 1 | | | 80,100 | | | | 2,360,547 | |
| St. Joe Company (The) 1,2,3 | | | 197,000 | | | | 3,825,740 | |
| Tejon Ranch 1,3 | | | 557,136 | | | | 8,022,758 | |
| | | | | | | | 53,560,011 | |
| Total (Cost $48,375,166) | | | | | | | 53,750,511 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| UTILITIES – 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| WATER UTILITIES - 0.1% | | | | | | | | |
| American States Water | | | 11,520 | | | | 905,818 | |
| Total (Cost $946,012) | | | | | | | 905,818 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL COMMON STOCKS | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $1,255,321,531) | | | | | | | 1,480,949,910 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| WARRANTS- 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| SEMICONDUCTORS & SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT - 0.0% | | | | | | | | |
| eMagin Corporation (Warrants) 3,5 | | | 50,000 | | | | 0 | |
| Total (Cost $0) | | | | | | | 0 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL WARRANTS | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $0) | | | | | | | 0 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| REPURCHASE AGREEMENT– 2.2% | | | | | | | | |
| Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, 0.00% dated 6/30/20, due 7/1/20, maturity value $31,492,000 (collateralized by obligations of various U.S. Government Agencies, 2.125% due 11/30/24, valued at $32,121,856) | |
| (Cost $31,492,000) | | | | | | | 31,492,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 105.0% | | | | | | | | |
| (Cost $1,286,813,531) | | | | | | | 1,512,441,910 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| LIABILITIES LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – (5.0)% | | | | | | | (72,370,367 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| NET ASSETS – 100.0% | | | | | | $ | 1,440,071,543 | |
ADR – American Depository Receipt
| 1 | All or a portion of these securities were pledged as collateral in connection with the Fund's revolving credit agreement at June 30, 2020. Total market value of pledged securities at June 30, 2020, was $209,788,690. |
| 2 | At June 30, 2020, a portion of these securities were rehypothecated in connection with the Fund's revolving credit agreement in the aggregate amount of $68,312,911. |
| 4 | These securities are defined as Level 2 securities due to fair value being based on quoted prices for similar securities. See Notes to Financial Statements. |
| 5 | Securities for which market quotations are not readily available represent 0.1% of net assets. These securities have been valued at their fair value under procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Directors. These securities are defined as Level 3 securities due to the use of significant unobservable inputs in the determination of fair value. See Notes to Financial Statements. |
| 6 | At June 30, 2020, the Fund owned 5% or more of the Company's outstanding voting securities thereby making the Company an Affiliated Company as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940. See Notes to Financial Statements. |
| | Bold indicates the Fund’s 20 largest equity holdings in terms of June 30, 2020, market value. |
| | TAX INFORMATION: The cost of total investments for Federal income tax purposes was $1,287,915,610. At June 30, 2020, net unrealized appreciation for all securities was $224,526,300 consisting of aggregate gross unrealized appreciation of $406,917,440 and aggregate gross unrealized depreciation of $182,391,140. The primary cause of the difference between book and tax basis cost is the timing of the recognition of losses on securities sold. |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 45 |
| Royce Value Trust | June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
| ASSETS: | | | | |
| Investments at value | | | | |
| Non-Affiliated Companies | | $ | 1,476,004,974 | |
| Affiliated Companies | | | 4,944,936 | |
| Repurchase agreements (at cost and value) | | | 31,492,000 | |
| Cash | | | 168 | |
| Foreign currency (cost $8,415) | | | 8,478 | |
| Receivable for investments sold | | | 80,482 | |
| Receivable for dividends | | | 699,022 | |
| Prepaid expenses and other assets | | | 759,870 | |
| Total Assets | | | 1,513,989,930 | |
| LIABILITIES: | | | | |
| Revolving credit agreement | | | 70,000,000 | |
| Payable for investments purchased | | | 1,865,631 | |
| Payable for investment advisory fee | | | 1,705,725 | |
| Payable for directors' fees | | | 39,759 | |
| Payable for interest expense | | | 73,537 | |
| Accrued expenses | | | 233,735 | |
| Total Liabilities | | | 73,918,387 | |
| Net Assets | | $ | 1,440,071,543 | |
| ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS: | | | | |
| Paid-in capital - $0.001 par value per share; 100,471,694 shares outstanding (150,000,000 shares authorized) | | $ | 1,229,899,515 | |
| Total distributable earnings (loss) | | | 263,563,709 | |
| Quarterly distributions | | | (53,391,681 | ) |
| Net Assets (net asset value per share - $14.33) | | $ | 1,440,071,543 | |
| Investments at identified cost | | $ | 1,255,321,531 | |
| 46 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
| Royce Value Trust | Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Operations
| INVESTMENT INCOME: | | | |
| INCOME: | | | |
| Dividends | | | |
| Non-Affiliated Companies | | $ | 13,019,544 | |
| Affiliated Companies | | | 85,377 | |
| Foreign withholding tax | | | (490,977 | ) |
| Interest | | | 94,904 | |
| Rehypothecation income | | | 245,643 | |
| Total income | | | 12,954,491 | |
| EXPENSES: | | | | |
| Investment advisory fees | | | 6,856,949 | |
| Interest expense | | | 715,876 | |
| Administrative and office facilities | | | 354,558 | |
| Stockholder reports | | | 228,206 | |
| Custody and transfer agent fees | | | 96,539 | |
| Directors' fees | | | 74,305 | |
| Professional fees | | | 70,460 | |
| Other expenses | | | 72,878 | |
| Total expenses | | | 8,469,771 | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | 4,484,720 | |
| REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCY: | | | | |
| NET REALIZED GAIN (LOSS): | | | | |
| Investments in Non-Affiliated Companies | | | 33,033,324 | |
| Foreign currency transactions | | | (44,409 | ) |
| NET CHANGE IN UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION): | | | | |
| Investments in Non-Affiliated Companies | | | (192,028,796 | ) |
| Investments in Affiliated Companies | | | (2,929,839 | ) |
| Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency | | | 8,161 | |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | (161,961,559 | ) |
| NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS | | $ | (157,476,839 | ) |
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 47 |
Royce Value Trust
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
| | | SIX MONTHS ENDED 6/30/20 (UNAUDITED) | | | YEAR ENDED 12/31/19 | |
| | | | | | | |
| INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: | | | | | | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | $ | 4,484,720 | | | $ | 10,410,880 | |
| Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | 32,988,915 | | | | 78,224,189 | |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and foreign currency | | | (194,950,474 | ) | | | 295,900,611 | |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | | (157,476,839 | ) | | | 384,535,680 | |
| DISTRIBUTIONS: | | | | | | | | |
| Quarterly distributions | | | (53,391,681 | ) | | | (105,830,150 | ) |
| Total distributions | | | (53,391,681 | ) | | | (105,830,150 | ) |
| CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS: | | | | | | | | |
| Reinvestment of distributions | | | 22,900,570 | | | | 45,227,078 | |
| Total capital stock transactions | | | 22,900,570 | | | | 45,227,078 | |
| Net Increase (Decrease) In Net Assets | | | (187,967,950 | ) | | | 323,932,608 | |
| NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | |
| Beginning of period | | | 1,628,039,493 | | | | 1,304,106,885 | |
| End of period | | $ | 1,440,071,543 | | | $ | 1,628,039,493 | |
| 48 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
| Royce Value Trust | Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (unaudited) |
Statement of Cash Flows
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | | | |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | $ | (157,476,839 | ) |
| Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations to net cash provided by operating activities: | | | | |
| Purchases of long-term investments | | | (257,162,921 | ) |
| Proceeds from sales and maturities of long-term investments | | | 301,400,519 | |
| Net purchases, sales and maturities of short-term investments | | | (19,339,000 | ) |
| Net (increase) decrease in dividends and interest receivable and other assets | | | 522,568 | |
| Net increase (decrease) in interest expense payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities | | | 622,508 | |
| Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | | | 194,958,635 | |
| Net realized gain (loss) on investments | | | (33,033,324 | ) |
| Net cash provided by operating activities | | | 30,492,146 | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | | | | |
| Distributions | | | (53,391,681 | ) |
| Reinvestment of distributions | | | 22,900,570 | |
| Net cash used for financing activities | | | (30,491,111 | ) |
| INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH: | | | 1,035 | |
| Cash and foreign currency at beginning of period | | | 7,611 | |
| Cash and foreign currency at end of period | | $ | 8,646 | |
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund paid $814,942 in interest expense.
| THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 49 |
Royce Value Trust
Financial Highlights
This table is presented to show selected data for a share of Common Stock outstanding throughout each period, and to assist stockholders in evaluating the Fund's performance for the periods presented.
| | | SIX MONTHS | | | YEARS ENDED | |
| | | ENDED 6/30/20 (UNAUDITED) | | | 12/31/19 | | | 12/31/18 | | | 12/31/17 | | | 12/31/16 | | | 12/31/15 | |
| Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | | $ | 16.58 | | | $ | 13.73 | | | $ | 17.50 | | | $ | 15.85 | | | $ | 13.56 | | | $ | 16.24 | |
| INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | 0.04 | | | | 0.11 | | | | 0.18 | | | | 0.13 | | | | 0.12 | | | | 0.12 | |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency | | | (1.71 | ) | | | 3.90 | | | | (2.46 | ) | | | 2.74 | | | | 3.27 | | | | (1.48 | ) |
| Net increase (decrease) in net assets from investment operations | | | (1.67 | ) | | | 4.01 | | | | (2.28 | ) | | | 2.87 | | | | 3.39 | | | | (1.36 | ) |
| DISTRIBUTIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net investment income | | | (0.05 | )1 | | | (0.11 | ) | | | (0.19 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (0.16 | ) |
| Net realized gain on investments and foreign currency | | | (0.39 | )1 | | | (0.99 | ) | | | (1.07 | ) | | | (1.03 | ) | | | (0.89 | ) | | | (1.08 | ) |
| Return of capital | | | (0.10 | )1 | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | |
| Total distributions | | | (0.54 | ) | | | (1.10 | ) | | | (1.26 | ) | | | (1.16 | ) | | | (1.02 | ) | | | (1.24 | ) |
| CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Effect of reinvestment of distributions by Common Stockholders | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) |
| Effect of rights offering | | | | | | | | | | | (0.17 | ) | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Total capital stock transactions | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.23 | ) | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) |
| Net Asset Value, End of Period | | $ | 14.33 | | | $ | 16.58 | | | $ | 13.73 | | | $ | 17.50 | | | $ | 15.85 | | | $ | 13.56 | |
| Market Value, End of Period | | $ | 12.54 | | | $ | 14.77 | | | $ | 11.80 | | | $ | 16.17 | | | $ | 13.39 | | | $ | 11.77 | |
| TOTAL RETURN:2 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Asset Value | | | (8.92 | )%3 | | | 30.46 | % | | | (14.45 | )% | | | 19.31 | % | | | 26.87 | % | | | (8.09 | )% |
| Market Value | | | (10.53 | )%3 | | | 35.23 | % | | | (20.43 | )% | | | 30.49 | % | | | 23.48 | % | | | (9.59 | )% |
| RATIOS BASED ON AVERAGE NET ASSETS: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Investment advisory fee expense4 | | | 0.99 | %5 | | | 0.49 | % | | | 0.42 | % | | | 0.43 | % | | | 0.51 | % | | | 0.50 | % |
| Other operating expenses | | | 0.23 | %5 | | | 0.27 | % | | | 0.21 | % | | | 0.22 | % | | | 0.22 | % | | | 0.18 | % |
| Total expenses (net) | | | 1.22 | %5 | | | 0.76 | % | | | 0.63 | % | | | 0.65 | % | | | 0.73 | % | | | 0.68 | % |
| Expenses excluding interest expense | | | 1.12 | %5 | | | 0.61 | % | | | 0.52 | % | | | 0.54 | % | | | 0.62 | % | | | 0.61 | % |
| Expenses prior to balance credits | | | 1.22 | %5 | | | 0.76 | % | | | 0.63 | % | | | 0.65 | % | | | 0.73 | % | | | 0.68 | % |
| Net investment income (loss) | | | 0.65 | %5 | | | 0.69 | % | | | 1.06 | % | | | 0.80 | % | | | 0.85 | % | | | 0.78 | % |
| SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | | $ | 1,440,072 | | | $ | 1,628,039 | | | $ | 1,304,107 | | | $ | 1,480,449 | | | $ | 1,296,012 | | | $ | 1,072,035 | |
| Portfolio Turnover Rate | | | 18 | % | | | 30 | % | | | 28 | % | | | 19 | % | | | 28 | % | | | 35 | % |
| REVOLVING CREDIT AGREEMENT: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Asset coverage | | | 2157 | % | | | 2426 | % | | | 2998 | % | | | 2215 | % | | | 1951 | % | | | 1631 | % |
| Asset coverage per $1,000 | | $ | 21,572 | | | $ | 24,258 | | | $ | 29,980 | | | $ | 22,149 | | | $ | 19,514 | | | $ | 16,315 | |
| 1 | Amounts are subject to change and recharacterization at year end. |
| 2 | The Market Value Total Return is calculated assuming a purchase of Common Stock on the opening of the first business day and a sale on the closing of the last business day of each period. Dividends and distributions are assumed for the purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund's Distribution Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan. Net Asset Value Total Return is calculated on the same basis, except that the Fund's net asset value is used on the purchase, sale and dividend reinvestment dates instead of market value. |
| 4 | The investment advisory fee is calculated based on average net assets over a rolling 60-month basis, while the above ratios of investment advisory fee expenses are based on the average net assets over a 6- month basis for the six months ended 6/30/20, and a 12-month basis for the years shown. |
| 50 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THESE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Royce Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:
Royce Value Trust, Inc. (the "Fund"), is a diversified closed-end investment company that was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on July 1, 1986. The Fund commenced operations on November 26, 1986.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The Fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services-Investment Companies.”
Royce & Associates, LP, the Fund’s investment adviser, primarily conducts business using the name Royce Investment Partners (“Royce”).
VALUATION OF INVESTMENTS:
Securities are valued as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on the valuation date. Securities that trade on an exchange, and securities traded on Nasdaq's Electronic Bulletin Board, are valued at their last reported sales price or Nasdaq official closing price taken from the primary market in which each security trades or, if no sale is reported for such day, at their highest bid price. Other over-the-counter securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at their highest bid price, except in the case of some bonds and other fixed income securities which may be valued by reference to other securities with comparable ratings, interest rates and maturities, using established independent pricing services. The Fund values its non-U.S. dollar denominated securities in U.S. dollars daily at the prevailing foreign currency exchange rates as quoted by a major bank. Securities for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at their fair value in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, under procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Directors, and are reported as Level 3 securities. As a general principle, the fair value of a security is the amount which the Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale. However, in light of the judgment involved in fair valuations, there can be no assurance that a fair value assigned to a particular security will be the amount which the Fund might be able to receive upon its current sale. In addition, if, between the time trading ends on a particular security and the close of the customary trading session on the NYSE, events occur that are significant and may make the closing price unreliable, the Fund may fair value the security. The Fund uses an independent pricing service to provide fair value estimates for relevant non-U.S. equity securities on days when the U.S. market volatility exceeds a certain threshold. This pricing service uses proprietary correlations it has developed between the movement of prices of non-U.S. equity securities and indices of U.S.-traded securities, futures contracts and other indications to estimate the fair value of relevant non-U.S. securities. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by the Fund may differ from quoted or published prices for the same security. Investments in money market funds are valued at net asset value per share.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments, as noted above. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels below:
| Level 1 – | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, foreign securities that may be fair valued and repurchase agreements). The table below includes all Level 2 securities. Level 2 securities with values based on quoted prices for similar securities are noted in the Schedule of Investments. |
| Level 3 – | significant unobservable inputs (including last trade price before trading was suspended, or at a discount thereto for lack of marketability or otherwise, market price information regarding other securities, information received from the company and/or published documents, including SEC filings and financial statements, or other publicly available information). |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of June 30, 2020. For a detailed breakout of common stocks by sector classification, please refer to the Schedule of Investments.
| | | LEVEL 1 | | | LEVEL 2 | | | LEVEL 3 | | | TOTAL | |
| Common Stocks | | $ | 1,425,515,914 | | | $ | 54,500,496 | | | $ | 933,500 | | | $ | 1,480,949,910 | |
| Warrants | | | – | | | | – | | | | 0 | | | | 0 | |
| Repurchase Agreement | | | – | | | | 31,492,000 | | | | – | | | | 31,492,000 | |
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 51
Royce Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
VALUATION OF INVESTMENTS (continued):
Level 3 Reconciliation:
| | | BALANCE AS OF 12/31/19 | | | SALES | | | REALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | | | UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)1 | | | BALANCE AS OF 6/30/20 | |
| Common Stocks | | $ | 1,085,100 | | | $ | 3,000 | | | $ | 0 | | | $ | (148,600 | ) | | $ | 933,500 | |
| Warrants | | | 0 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 0 | |
| 1 | The net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is included in the accompanying Statement of Operations. Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) includes net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) resulting from changes in investment values during the reporting period and the reversal of previously recorded unrealized appreciation (depreciation) when gains or losses are realized. Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions is included in the accompanying Statement of Operations. |
The following table summarizes the valuation techniques used and unobservable inputs approved by the Valuation Committee to determine the fair value of certain Level 3 investments. The table does not include Level 3 investments with values derived utilizing prices from prior transactions or third party pricing information with adjustments (e.g. broker quotes, pricing services, net asset values).
| | | FAIR VALUE AT 6/30/20 | | | VALUATION TECHNIQUE(S) | | UNOBSERVABLE INPUT(S) | | RANGE AVERAGE | | | IMPACT TO VALUATION FROM AN INCREASE IN INPUT1 |
| Waterloo Investment Holdings | | $ | 743,000 | | | Discounted Present Value Balance Sheet Analysis | | Liquidity Discount | | 30%-40% | | | Decrease |
| New York REIT | | | 190,500 | | | Guidance from Options Clearing Authorities Balance Sheet Analysis | | Liquidity Discount | | 15%-25% | | | Decrease |
| 1 | This column represents the directional change in the fair value of the Level 3 investments that would result in an increase from the corresponding unobservable input. A decrease to the unobservable input would have the opposite effect. Significant increases and decreases in these unobservable inputs in isolation could result in significantly higher or lower fair value measurements. |
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS:
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that the Fund’s investment adviser has determined are creditworthy. The Fund restricts repurchase agreements to maturities of no more than seven days. Securities pledged as collateral for repurchase agreements, which are held until maturity of the repurchase agreements, are marked-to-market daily and maintained at a value at least equal to the principal amount of the repurchase agreement (including accrued interest). Repurchase agreements could involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the counter-party, including possible delays or restrictions upon the ability of the Fund to dispose of its underlying securities. The remaining contractual maturity of the repurchase agreement held by the Fund at June 30, 2020 is overnight and continuous.
FOREIGN CURRENCY:
Net realized foreign exchange gains or losses arise from sales and maturities of short-term securities, sales of foreign currencies, expiration of currency forward contracts, currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on securities transactions, and the difference between the amounts of dividends, interest, and foreign withholding taxes recorded on the Fund's books and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in the value of assets and liabilities, other than investments in securities at the end of the reporting period, as a result of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
The Fund does not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates on investments from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments.
TAXES:
As a qualified regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent that it distributes substantially all of its taxable income for its fiscal year. The Schedule of Investments includes information regarding income taxes under the caption “Tax Information.”
CAPITAL GAINS TAXES:
The Fund is subject to a tax imposed on short-term capital gains on securities of issuers domiciled in certain countries. The Fund records an estimated deferred tax liability for gains in these securities that have been held for less than one year. This amount, if any, is reported as deferred capital gains tax in the accompanying Statement of Assets and Liabilities, assuming those positions were disposed of at the end of the period.
52 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Royce Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
DISTRIBUTIONS:
The Fund pays quarterly distributions on the Fund’s Common Stock at the annual rate of 7% of the rolling average of the prior four calendar quarter-end NAVs of the Fund’s Common Stock, with the fourth quarter distribution being the greater of 1.75% of the rolling average or the distribution required by IRS regulations. Distributions to Common Stockholders are recorded on ex-dividend date. To the extent that distributions in any year are not paid from long-term capital gains, net investment income or net short-term capital gains, they will represent a return of capital. Distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations that may differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Permanent book and tax differences relating to stockholder distributions will result in reclassifications within the capital accounts. Undistributed net investment income may include temporary book and tax basis differences, which will reverse in a subsequent period. Any taxable income or gain remaining undistributed at fiscal year end is distributed in the following year.
INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS AND RELATED INVESTMENT INCOME:
Investment transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividend income is recorded at the fair market value of the securities received. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis. Premiums and discounts on debt securities are amortized using the effective yield-to-maturity method. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are determined on the basis of identified cost for book and tax purposes.
EXPENSES:
The Fund incurs direct and indirect expenses. Expenses directly attributable to the Fund are charged to the Fund’s operations, while expenses applicable to more than one of the Royce Funds are allocated equitably. Certain personnel, occupancy costs and other administrative expenses related to the Funds are allocated by Royce under an administration agreement and are included in administrative and office facilities and professional fees.
COMPENSATING BALANCE CREDITS:
The Fund has an arrangement with its custodian bank, whereby a portion of the custodian's fee is paid indirectly by credits earned on the Fund's cash on deposit with the bank. This deposit arrangement is an alternative to purchasing overnight investments. Conversely, the Fund pays interest to the custodian on any cash overdrafts, to the extent they are not offset by credits earned on positive cash balances.
Capital Stock:
The Fund issued 2,253,861 and 3,207,809 shares of Common Stock as reinvestment of distributions for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and the year ended December 31, 2019, respectively.
Borrowings:
The Fund is party to a revolving credit agreement (the credit agreement) with BNP Paribas Prime Brokerage International, Limited (BNPPI). The Fund pays a commitment fee of 0.50% per annum on the unused portion of the then-current maximum amount that may be borrowed by the Fund under the credit agreement. The credit agreement has a 179-day rolling term that resets daily. The Fund is required to pledge portfolio securities as collateral in an amount up to two times the loan balance outstanding, or as otherwise required by applicable regulatory standards, and has granted a security interest in the securities pledged to, and in favor of, BNPPI as security for the loan balance outstanding. If the Fund fails to meet certain requirements, or comply with other financial covenants set forth in the credit agreement, the Fund may be required to repay immediately, in part or in full, the loan balance outstanding under the credit agreement, which may necessitate the sale of portfolio securities at potentially inopportune times. BNPPI may terminate the credit agreement upon certain ratings downgrades of its corporate parent, which would result in the Fund’s entire loan balance becoming immediately due and payable. The occurrence of such ratings downgrades may necessitate the sale of portfolio securities at potentially inopportune times. BNPPI may also terminate the credit agreement upon sixty (60) calendar days’ prior written notice to the Fund in the event the Fund’s net asset value per share as of the close of business on the last business day of any calendar month declines by thirty-five percent (35%) or more from the Fund’s net asset value per share as of the close of business on the last business day of the immediately preceding calendar month.
The credit agreement also permits, subject to certain conditions, BNPPI to rehypothecate portfolio securities pledged by the Fund up to the amount of the loan balance outstanding. The Fund continues to receive payments in lieu of dividends and interest on rehypothecated securities. The Fund also has the right under the credit agreement to recall the rehypothecated securities from BNPPI on demand. If BNPPI fails to deliver the recalled security in a timely manner, the Fund is compensated by BNPPI for any fees or losses related to the failed delivery or, in the event a recalled security is not returned by BNPPI, the Fund, upon notice to BNPPI, may reduce the loan balance outstanding by the value of the recalled security failed to be returned. The Fund receives a portion of the fees earned by BNPPI in connection with the rehypothecation of portfolio securities.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 53
Royce Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Borrowings (continued):
The Fund and BNPPI have agreed that the current maximum amount the Fund may borrow under the credit agreement is $70,000,000. The Fund has the right to reduce the maximum amount it can borrow under the credit agreement upon one (1) business day’s prior written notice to BNPPI. In addition, the Fund and BNPPI may agree to increase the maximum amount the Fund can borrow under the credit agreement, which amount may not exceed $150,000,000.
As of June 30, 2020, the Fund has outstanding borrowings of $70,000,000. During the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund borrowed an average daily balance of $70,000,000 at a weighted average borrowing cost of 2.02%. The maximum amount outstanding during the six months ended June 30, 2020, was $70,000,000. As of June 30, 2020, the aggregate value of rehypothecated securities was $68,312,911. During the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund earned $245,643 in fees from rehypothecated securities.
Investment Advisory Agreement:
As compensation for its services under the investment advisory agreement, Royce receives a fee comprised of a Basic Fee (“Basic Fee”) and an adjustment to the Basic Fee based on the investment performance of the Fund in relation to the investment record of the S&P SmallCap 600 Index (“S&P 600").
The Basic Fee is a monthly fee equal to 1/12 of 1% (1% on an annualized basis) of the average of the Fund’s month-end net assets for the rolling 60-month period ending with such month (the "performance period"). The Basic Fee for each month is increased or decreased at the rate of 1/12 of .05% for each percentage point that the investment performance of the Fund exceeds, or is exceeded by, the percentage change in the investment record of the S&P 600 for the performance period by more than two percentage points. The performance period for each such month is a rolling 60-month period ending with such month. The maximum increase or decrease in the Basic Fee for any month may not exceed 1/12 of .5%. Accordingly, for each month, the maximum monthly fee rate as adjusted for performance is 1/12 of 1.5% and is payable if the investment performance of the Fund exceeds the percentage change in the investment record of the S&P 600 by 12 or more percentage points for the performance period, and the minimum monthly fee rate as adjusted for performance is 1/12 of .5% and is payable if the percentage change in the investment record of the S&P 600 exceeds the investment performance of the Fund by 12 or more percentage points for the performance period.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Royce is not entitled to receive any fee for any month when the investment performance of the Fund for the rolling 36-month period ending with such month is negative. In the event that the Fund’s investment performance for such a performance period is less than zero, Royce will not be required to refund to the Fund any fee earned in respect of any prior performance period.
For the six rolling 60-month periods ended June 2020, the Fund’s investment performance ranged from 2% below to 12% above the investment performance of the S&P 600. Accordingly, the net investment advisory fee consisted of a Basic Fee of $5,664,931 and a net upward adjustment of $1,192,018 for the performance of the Fund relative to that of the S&P 600. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Fund expensed Royce investment advisory fees totaling $6,856,949.
Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities:
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, the costs of purchases and proceeds from sales of investment securities, other than short-term securities, amounted to $258,421,423 and $301,361,268, respectively.
Cross trades were executed by the Fund pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act. Cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which Royce serves as investment adviser. The Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer reviews such transactions each quarter for compliance with the requirements and restrictions set forth by Rule 17a-7, and reports the results of her review to the Board of Directors. Cross trades for the six months ended June 30, 2020, were as follows:
| COSTS OF PURCHASES | | | PROCEEDS FROM SALES | | | REALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | |
| $7,846,417 | | | | $870,464 | | | | $(922,571) | |
54 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Royce Value Trust
Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Transactions in Affiliated Companies:
An “Affiliated Company” as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, is a company in which a fund owns 5% or more of the company’s outstanding voting securities at any time during the period. The following transactions were effected in shares of such companies for the six months ended June 30, 2020:
| AFFILIATED COMPANY | | SHARES 12/31/19 | | | MARKET VALUE 12/31/19 | | | COSTS OF PURCHASES | | | PROCEEDS FROM SALES | | | REALIZED GAIN (LOSS) | | | CHANGE IN NET UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION) | | | DIVIDEND INCOME | | | SHARES 6/30/20 | | | MARKET VALUE 6/30/20 | |
| INDUSTRIALS - 0.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
TRADING COMPANIES &
DISTRIBUTORS - 0.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Houston Wire & Cable 1,2 | | | 877,363 | | | $ | 3,869,171 | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | $ | (1,798,594 | ) | | $ | – | | | | 877,363 | | | $ | 2,070,577 | |
| | | | | | | | 3,869,171 | | | | | | | | | | | | – | | | | (1,798,594 | ) | | | – | | | | | | | | 2,070,577 | |
| INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY - 0.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS & COMPONENTS - 0.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Richardson Electronics 1 | | | 711,475 | | | | 4,005,604 | | | | – | | | | – | | | | – | | | | (1,131,245 | ) | | | 85,377 | | | | 711,475 | | | | 2,874,359 | |
| | | | | | | | 4,005,604 | | | | | | | | | | | | – | | | | (1,131,245 | ) | | | 85,377 | | | | | | | | 2,874,359 | |
| | | | | | | $ | 7,874,775 | | | | | | | | | | | | – | | | $ | (2,929,839 | ) | | $ | 85,377 | | | | | | | $ | 4,944,936 | |
| 1 | At June 30, 2020, the Fund owned 5% or more of the Company's outstanding voting securities thereby making the Company an Affiliated Company as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940. |
Subsequent Events:
On July 31, 2020, Franklin Resources, Inc. (“Franklin Resources”) acquired Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”) in an all-cash transaction. Royce was an indirect, majority-owned subsidiary of Legg Mason prior to the transaction. As a result of the transaction, Royce, the investment adviser to the Fund, became an indirect, majority-owned subsidiary of Franklin Resources. Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, consummation of the transaction automatically terminated the investment advisory agreement that was in place for the Fund prior to the transaction (referred to herein as the “Prior Agreement”). Royce continues to provide uninterrupted services to the Fund pursuant to a new investment advisory agreement that was recently approved by Fund stockholders. The terms and conditions of the Fund’s new investment advisory agreement are substantially identical to those of its Prior Agreement. The Fund’s contractual investment advisory fee rate remains the same under its new investment advisory agreement. Royce will continue to operate as an independent investment organization with its own brand after completion of the transaction. There are no changes planned to the management of the organization or investment teams at Royce as a result of the transaction.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 55
History Since Inception
The following table details the share accumulations by an initial investor in the Funds who reinvested all distributions and participated fully in primary subscriptions for each of the rights offerings. Full participation in distribution reinvestments and rights offerings can maximize the returns available to a long-term investor. This table should be read in conjunction with the Performance and Portfolio Reviews of the Funds.
| HISTORY | | | AMOUNT INVESTED | | | PURCHASE PRICE 1 | | | SHARES | | | NAV VALUE 2 | | | MARKET VALUE 2 | |
| Royce Global Value Trust | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 10/17/13 | Initial Purchase | | $ | 8,975 | | | $ | 8.975 | | | | 1,000 | | | $ | 9,780 | | | $ | 8,975 | |
| 12/11/14 | Distribution $0.15 | | | | | | | 7.970 | | | | 19 | | | | 9,426 | | | | 8,193 | |
| 12/10/15 | Distribution $0.10 | | | | | | | 7.230 | | | | 14 | | | | 9,101 | | | | 7,696 | |
| 12/9/16 | Distribution $0.14 | | | | | | | 7.940 | | | | 18 | | | | 10,111 | | | | 8,446 | |
| 12/12/17 | Distribution $0.11 | | | | | | | 10.610 | | | | 11 | | | | 13,254 | | | | 11,484 | |
| 12/12/18 | Distribution $0.04 | | | | | | | 8.500 | | | | 5 | | | | 11,118 | | | | 9,475 | |
| 12/11/19 | Distribution $0.06 | | | | | | | 10.670 | | | | 6 | | | | 14,593 | | | | 12,543 | |
| 6/30/20 | | | $ | 8,975 | | | | | | | | 1,073 | | | $ | 13,584 | | | $ | 12,415 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Royce Micro-Cap Trust | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/14/93 | Initial Purchase | | $ | 7,500 | | | $ | 7.500 | | | | 1,000 | | | $ | 7,250 | | | $ | 7,500 | |
| 10/28/94 | Rights Offering | | | 1,400 | | | | 7.000 | | | | 200 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/19/94 | Distribution $0.05 | | | | | | | 6.750 | | | | 9 | | | | 9,163 | | | | 8,462 | |
| 12/7/95 | Distribution $0.36 | | | | | | | 7.500 | | | | 58 | | | | 11,264 | | | | 10,136 | |
| 12/6/96 | Distribution $0.80 | | | | | | | 7.625 | | | | 133 | | | | 13,132 | | | | 11,550 | |
| 12/5/97 | Distribution $1.00 | | | | | | | 10.000 | | | | 140 | | | | 16,694 | | | | 15,593 | |
| 12/7/98 | Distribution $0.29 | | | | | | | 8.625 | | | | 52 | | | | 16,016 | | | | 14,129 | |
| 12/6/99 | Distribution $0.27 | | | | | | | 8.781 | | | | 49 | | | | 18,051 | | | | 14,769 | |
| 12/6/00 | Distribution $1.72 | | | | | | | 8.469 | | | | 333 | | | | 20,016 | | | | 17,026 | |
| 12/6/01 | Distribution $0.57 | | | | | | | 9.880 | | | | 114 | | | | 24,701 | | | | 21,924 | |
| 2002 | Annual distribution total $0.80 | | | | | | | 9.518 | | | | 180 | | | | 21,297 | | | | 19,142 | |
| 2003 | Annual distribution total $0.92 | | | | | | | 10.004 | | | | 217 | | | | 33,125 | | | | 31,311 | |
| 2004 | Annual distribution total $1.33 | | | | | | | 13.350 | | | | 257 | | | | 39,320 | | | | 41,788 | |
| 2005 | Annual distribution total $1.85 | | | | | | | 13.848 | | | | 383 | | | | 41,969 | | | | 45,500 | |
| 2006 | Annual distribution total $1.55 | | | | | | | 14.246 | | | | 354 | | | | 51,385 | | | | 57,647 | |
| 2007 | Annual distribution total $1.35 | | | | | | | 13.584 | | | | 357 | | | | 51,709 | | | | 45,802 | |
| 2008 | Annual distribution total $1.19³ | | | | | | | 8.237 | | | | 578 | | | | 28,205 | | | | 24,807 | |
| 3/11/09 | Distribution $0.22³ | | | | | | | 4.260 | | | | 228 | | | | 41,314 | | | | 34,212 | |
| 12/2/10 | Distribution $0.08 | | | | | | | 9.400 | | | | 40 | | | | 53,094 | | | | 45,884 | |
| 2011 | Annual distribution total $0.53³ | | | | | | | 8.773 | | | | 289 | | | | 49,014 | | | | 43,596 | |
| 2012 | Annual distribution total $0.51 | | | | | | | 9.084 | | | | 285 | | | | 57,501 | | | | 49,669 | |
| 2013 | Annual distribution total $1.38 | | | | | | | 11.864 | | | | 630 | | | | 83,110 | | | | 74,222 | |
| 2014 | Annual distribution total $2.90 | | | | | | | 10.513 | | | | 1,704 | | | | 86,071 | | | | 76,507 | |
| 2015 | Annual distribution total $1.26 | | | | | | | 7.974 | | | | 1,256 | | | | 75,987 | | | | 64,222 | |
| 2016 | Annual distribution total $0.64 | | | | | | | 7.513 | | | | 779 | | | | 92,689 | | | | 78,540 | |
| 2017 | Annual distribution total $0.69 | | | | | | | 8.746 | | | | 783 | | | | 109,076 | | | | 98,254 | |
| 2018 | Annual distribution total $0.75 | | | | | | | 8.993 | | | | 893 | | | | 96,398 | | | | 83,853 | |
| 2019 | Annual distribution total $0.68 | | | | | | | 8.297 | | | | 955 | | | | 118,025 | | | | 104,666 | |
| 2020 | Year-to-Date distribution total $0.31 | | | | | | | 5.703 | | | | 677 | | | | | | | | | |
| 6/30/20 | | | $ | 8,900 | | | | | | | | 12,933 | | | $ | 110,706 | | | $ | 93,118 | |
| 1 | The purchase price used for annual distribution totals is a weighted average of the distribution reinvestment prices for the year. |
| 2 | Values are stated as of December 31 of the year indicated, after reinvestment of distributions, other than for initial purchase. |
| 3 | Includes a return of capital. |
56 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
History Since Inception (continued)
| HISTORY | | | AMOUNT INVESTED | | | PURCHASE PRICE 1 | | | SHARES | | | NAV VALUE2 | | | MARKET VALUE2 | |
| Royce Value Trust | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 11/26/86 | Initial Purchase | | $ | 10,000 | | | $ | 10.000 | | | | 1,000 | | | $ | 9,280 | | | $ | 10,000 | |
| 10/15/87 | Distribution $0.30 | | | | | | | 7.000 | | | | 42 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/31/87 | Distribution $0.22 | | | | | | | 7.125 | | | | 32 | | | | 8,578 | | | | 7,250 | |
| 12/27/88 | Distribution $0.51 | | | | | | | 8.625 | | | | 63 | | | | 10,529 | | | | 9,238 | |
| 9/22/89 | Rights Offering | | | 405 | | | | 9.000 | | | | 45 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/29/89 | Distribution $0.52 | | | | | | | 9.125 | | | | 67 | | | | 12,942 | | | | 11,866 | |
| 9/24/90 | Rights Offering | | | 457 | | | | 7.375 | | | | 62 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/31/90 | Distribution $0.32 | | | | | | | 8.000 | | | | 52 | | | | 11,713 | | | | 11,074 | |
| 9/23/91 | Rights Offering | | | 638 | | | | 9.375 | | | | 68 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/31/91 | Distribution $0.61 | | | | | | | 10.625 | | | | 82 | | | | 17,919 | | | | 15,697 | |
| 9/25/92 | Rights Offering | | | 825 | | | | 11.000 | | | | 75 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/31/92 | Distribution $0.90 | | | | | | | 12.500 | | | | 114 | | | | 21,999 | | | | 20,874 | |
| 9/27/93 | Rights Offering | | | 1,469 | | | | 13.000 | | | | 113 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/31/93 | Distribution $1.15 | | | | | | | 13.000 | | | | 160 | | | | 26,603 | | | | 25,428 | |
| 10/28/94 | Rights Offering | | | 1,103 | | | | 11.250 | | | | 98 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/19/94 | Distribution $1.05 | | | | | | | 11.375 | | | | 191 | | | | 27,939 | | | | 24,905 | |
| 11/3/95 | Rights Offering | | | 1,425 | | | | 12.500 | | | | 114 | | | | | | | | | |
| 12/7/95 | Distribution $1.29 | | | | | | | 12.125 | | | | 253 | | | | 35,676 | | | | 31,243 | |
| 12/6/96 | Distribution $1.15 | | | | | | | 12.250 | | | | 247 | | | | 41,213 | | | | 36,335 | |
| 1997 | Annual distribution total $1.21 | | | | | | | 15.374 | | | | 230 | | | | 52,556 | | | | 46,814 | |
| 1998 | Annual distribution total $1.54 | | | | | | | 14.311 | | | | 347 | | | | 54,313 | | | | 47,506 | |
| 1999 | Annual distribution total $1.37 | | | | | | | 12.616 | | | | 391 | | | | 60,653 | | | | 50,239 | |
| 2000 | Annual distribution total $1.48 | | | | | | | 13.972 | | | | 424 | | | | 70,711 | | | | 61,648 | |
| 2001 | Annual distribution total $1.49 | | | | | | | 15.072 | | | | 437 | | | | 81,478 | | | | 73,994 | |
| 2002 | Annual distribution total $1.51 | | | | | | | 14.903 | | | | 494 | | | | 68,770 | | | | 68,927 | |
| 1/28/03 | Rights Offering | | | 5,600 | | | | 10.770 | | | | 520 | | | | | | | | | |
| 2003 | Annual distribution total $1.30 | | | | | | | 14.582 | | | | 516 | | | | 106,216 | | | | 107,339 | |
| 2004 | Annual distribution total $1.55 | | | | | | | 17.604 | | | | 568 | | | | 128,955 | | | | 139,094 | |
| 2005 | Annual distribution total $1.61 | | | | | | | 18.739 | | | | 604 | | | | 139,808 | | | | 148,773 | |
| 2006 | Annual distribution total $1.78 | | | | | | | 19.696 | | | | 693 | | | | 167,063 | | | | 179,945 | |
| 2007 | Annual distribution total $1.85 | | | | | | | 19.687 | | | | 787 | | | | 175,469 | | | | 165,158 | |
| 2008 | Annual distribution total $1.723 | | | | | | | 12.307 | | | | 1,294 | | | | 95,415 | | | | 85,435 | |
| 3/11/09 | Distribution $0.323 | | | | | | | 6.071 | | | | 537 | | | | 137,966 | | | | 115,669 | |
| 12/2/10 | Distribution $0.03 | | | | | | | 13.850 | | | | 23 | | | | 179,730 | | | | 156,203 | |
| 2011 | Annual distribution total $0.783 | | | | | | | 13.043 | | | | 656 | | | | 161,638 | | | | 139,866 | |
| 2012 | Annual distribution total $0.80 | | | | | | | 13.063 | | | | 714 | | | | 186,540 | | | | 162,556 | |
| 2013 | Annual distribution total $2.194 | | | | | | | 16.647 | | | | 1,658 | | | | 250,219 | | | | 220,474 | |
| 2014 | Annual distribution total $1.82 | | | | | | | 14.840 | | | | 1,757 | | | | 252,175 | | | | 222,516 | |
| 2015 | Annual distribution total $1.24 | | | | | | | 12.725 | | | | 1,565 | | | | 231,781 | | | | 201,185 | |
| 2016 | Annual distribution total $1.02 | | | | | | | 12.334 | | | | 1,460 | | | | 293,880 | | | | 248,425 | |
| 2017 | Annual distribution total $1.16 | | | | | | | 14.841 | | | | 1,495 | | | | 350,840 | | | | 324,176 | |
| 2018 | Distribution through 6/30/18 $0.59 | | | | | | | 15.962 | | | | 748 | | | | | | | | | |
| 2018 | Rights Offering | | | 31,289 | | | | 15.330 | | | | 2,041 | | | | | | | | | |
| 2018 | Distribution after 6/30/18 $0.67 | | | | | | | 12.706 | | | | 1,168 | | | | 329,589 | | | | 283,259 | |
| 2019 | Annual distribution total $1.10 | | | | | | | 14.100 | | | | 1,929 | | | | 429,986 | | | | 383,045 | |
| 2020 | Year-to-Date distribution total $0.54 | | | | | | | 10.180 | | | | 1,397 | | | | | | | | | |
| 6/30/20 | | | $ | 53,211 | | | | | | | | 27,331 | | | $ | 391,653 | | | $ | 342,731 | |
| 1 | The purchase price used for annual distribution totals is a weighted average of the distribution reinvestment prices for the year. |
| 2 | Values are stated as of December 31 of the year indicated, after reinvestment of distributions, other than for initial purchase. |
| 3 | Includes a return of capital. |
| 4 | Includes Royce Global Value Trust spin-off of $1.40 per share. |
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 57
Distribution Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Options
Why should I reinvest my distributions?
By reinvesting distributions, a stockholder can maintain an undiluted investment in the Fund. The regular reinvestment of distributions has a significant impact on stockholder returns. In contrast, the stockholder who takes distributions in cash is penalized when shares are issued below net asset value to other stockholders.
How does the reinvestment of distributions from the Royce closed-end funds work?
The Funds automatically issue shares in payment of distributions unless you indicate otherwise. The shares are generally issued at the lower of the market price or net asset value on the valuation date.
How does this apply to registered stockholders?
If your shares are registered directly with a Fund, your distributions are automatically reinvested unless you have otherwise instructed the Funds’ transfer agent, Computershare, in writing, in which case you will receive your distribution in cash. A registered stockholder also may have the option to receive the distribution in the form of a stock certificate.
What if my shares are held by a brokerage firm or a bank?
If your shares are held by a brokerage firm, bank, or other intermediary as the stockholder of record, you should contact your brokerage firm or bank to be certain that it is automatically reinvesting distributions on your behalf. If they are unable to reinvest distributions on your behalf, you should have your shares registered in your name in order to participate.
What other features are available for registered stockholders?
The Distribution Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plans also allow registered stockholders to make optional cash purchases of shares of a Fund’s common stock directly through Computershare on a monthly basis, and to deposit certificates representing your RVT and RMT shares with Computershare for safekeeping. (RGT does not issue shares in certificated form). Plan participants are subject to a $0.75 service fee for each voluntary cash purchase under the Plans. The Funds’ investment adviser absorbed all commissions on optional cash purchases under the Plans through June 30, 2020.
How do the Plans work for registered stockholders?
Computershare maintains the accounts for registered stockholders in the Plans and sends written confirmation of all transactions in the account. Shares in the account of each participant will be held by Computershare in non-certificated form in the name of the participant, and each participant will be able to vote those shares at a stockholder meeting or by proxy. A participant may also send stock certificates for RVT and RMT held by them to Computershare to be held in non-certificated form. RGT does not issue shares in certificated form. There is no service fee charged to participants for reinvesting distributions. If a participant elects to sell shares from a Plan account, Computershare will deduct a $2.50 service fee from the sale transaction. The Funds’ investment adviser absorbed all commissions on optional sales under the Plans through June 30, 2020. If a nominee is the registered owner of your shares, the nominee will maintain the accounts on your behalf.
How can I get more information on the Plans?
You can call an Investor Services Representative at (800) 221-4268 or you can request a copy of the Plan for your Fund from Computershare. All correspondence (including notifications) should be directed to: [Name of Fund] Distribution Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan, c/o Computershare, PO Box 43078, Providence, RI 02940-3078, telephone (800) 426-5523 (from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.).
58 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Directors and Officers
All Directors and Officers may be reached c/o The Royce Funds, 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10151
Christopher D. Clark, Director 1, President
Age: 55 | Number of Funds Overseen: 16 | Tenure: Since 2014
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Chief Executive Officer (since July 2016), President (since July 2014), Co-Chief Investment Officer (Since January 2014), Managing Director of Royce, a Member of the Board of Managers of Royce, having been employed by Royce since May 2007.
Patricia W. Chadwick, Director
Age: 71 | Number of Funds Overseen: 16 | Tenure: Since 2009
Non-Royce Directorships: Trustee of Voya Mutual Funds and Director of Wisconsin Energy Corp.
Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years: Consultant and President of Ravengate Partners LLC (since 2000).
Christopher C. Grisanti, Director
Age: 58 | Number of Funds Overseen: 16 | Tenure: Since 2017
Non-Royce Directorships: None
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Chief Equity Strategist and Senior Portfolio Manager at MAI Capital Management LLC, an investment advisory firm (since May 2020). Previously, Mr. Grisanti was Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Grisanti Capital Management LLC, an investment advisory firm (from 1999 to 2020). Mr. Grisanti’s prior business experience also includes serving as Director of Research and Portfolio Manager at Spears Benzak, Salomon & Farrell (from 1994 to 1999) and a senior associate at the law firm of Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett (from 1988 to 1994).
Cecile B. Harper, Director2
Age: 57 | Number of Funds Overseen: 3 | Tenure: Since 2020
Non-Royce Directorships: None
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Board Member of Pyramid Peak Foundation (since January 2012); and Chief Operating Officer at the College Foundation at the University of Virginia (since October 2019). Ms. Harper’s prior business experience includes serving as Principal of Southeastern Asset Management (from December 1993 to September 2019); and a Board Member of Regional One Health Foundation (from June 2013 to September 2019).
Arthur S. Mehlman, Director
Age: 78 | Number of Funds Overseen: 36 | Tenure: Since 2004
Non-Royce Directorships: Director/Trustee of registered investment companies constituting the 20 Legg Mason Funds.
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Director of The League for People with Disabilities, Inc.; Director of University of Maryland Foundation (non-profits). Formerly: Director of Municipal Mortgage & Equity, LLC (from October 2004 to April 1, 2011); Director of University of Maryland College Park Foundation (non-profit) (from 1998 to 2005); Partner, KPMG LLP (international accounting firm) (from 1972 to 2002); Director of Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (from July 1984 to June 2002).
G. Peter O’Brien, Director
Age: 74 | Number of Funds Overseen: 36 | Tenure: Since 2001
Non-Royce Directorships: Director/Trustee of registered investment companies constituting the 20 Legg Mason Funds.
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Trustee Emeritus of Colgate University (since 2005); Board Member of Hill House, Inc. (since 1999); Formerly Director of TICC Capital Corp (from 2003-2017): Trustee of Colgate University (from 1996 to 2005), President of Hill House, Inc. (from 2001 to 2005) and Managing Director/Equity Capital Markets Group of Merrill Lynch & Co. (from 1971 to 1999).
Michael K. Shields, Director
Age: 62 | Number of Funds Overseen: 16 | Tenure: Since 2015
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: President and Chief Executive Officer of Piedmont Trust Company, a private North Carolina trust company (since May 2012). Mr. Shields’s prior business experience includes owning Shields Advisors, an investment consulting firm (from April 2010 to June 2012).
Francis D. Gannon, Vice President
Age: 52 | Tenure: Since 2014
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Co-Chief Investment Officer (since January 2014) and Managing Director of Royce, having been employed by Royce since September 2006.
Daniel A. O’Byrne, Vice President
Age: 58 | Tenure: Since 1994
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Principal and Vice President of Royce, having been employed by Royce since October 1986.
Peter K. Hoglund, Treasurer
Age: 54 | Tenure: Since 2015
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Chief Financial Officer, Chief Administrative Officer, and Managing Director of Royce, having been employed by Royce since December 2014. Prior to joining Royce, Mr. Hoglund spent more than 20 years with Munder Capital Management in Birmingham, MI, serving as Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer and overseeing all financial aspects of the firm. He began his career at Munder as a portfolio manager.
John E. Denneen, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer
Age: 53 | Tenure: 1996-2001 and Since 2002
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: General Counsel, Managing Director, and, since June 2015, a Member of the Board of Managers of Royce. Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and Secretary of Royce.
Lisa Curcio, Chief Compliance Officer
Age: 60 | Tenure: Since 2004
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years: Chief Compliance Officer of The Royce Funds (since October 2004) and Compliance Officer of Royce (since June 2004).
| 2 | Became a Director effective as of the close of business on July 21, 2020. |
Director will hold office until their successors have been duly elected and qualified or until their earlier resignation or removal.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 59
Board Approval of Current Investment Advisory Agreements
At meetings held on May 27-28, 2020, the funds’ respective Boards of Directors (each, a “Board” and collectively, the “Boards”), including all of the non-interested directors, approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreements in place (each, a “Current Agreement” and collectively, the “Current Agreements”) between Royce & Associates, LP (“Royce”) and each of Royce Value Trust, Inc., Royce Micro-Cap Trust, Inc., and Royce Global Value Trust, Inc. (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”). In reaching these decisions, each Board reviewed the materials provided by Royce, which included, among other things, information prepared internally by Royce and independently by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”) using the database and methodology of Morningstar Associates, LLC (“Morningstar”) containing detailed investment advisory fee, expense ratio, and investment performance comparisons for the Funds with other funds in their respective “peer groups”, information regarding the past performance of the Funds and other registered investment companies managed by Royce and a memorandum outlining the legal duties of each Board prepared by independent counsel to the non-interested directors. Royce also provided the directors with an analysis of its profitability with respect to providing investment advisory services to each of the Funds. In addition, each Board took into account information furnished throughout the year at regular Board meetings, including reports on investment performance, stockholder services, regulatory compliance, brokerage commissions and research, and brokerage and other execution products and services provided to the Funds. Each Board also considered other matters it deemed important to the approval process, such as allocation of brokerage commissions, “soft dollar” research services Royce receives and other direct and indirect benefits to Royce and its affiliates, from their relationship with the relevant Fund. The directors also met throughout the year with investment advisory personnel from Royce. Each Board also noted Royce’s efforts to provide enhanced analytical tools to its investment staff along with the ongoing meetings conducted by Royce’s Co-Chief Investment Officers with portfolio managers experiencing performance challenges in an attempt to address such challenges. Each Board, in its deliberations, recognized that, for many of the Funds’ stockholders, the decision to purchase Fund shares included a decision to select Royce as the investment adviser and that there was a strong association in the minds of Fund stockholders between Royce and each Fund. In considering factors relating to the approval of the continuance of the Current Agreements, the non-interested directors received assistance and advice from, and met separately with, their independent counsel. While all three of the Current Agreements were considered at the same Board meetings, the Boards dealt with each agreement separately.
Among other factors, the directors considered the following:
The nature, extent and quality of services provided by Royce:
Each Board considered the following factors to be of fundamental importance to its consideration of whether to approve the continuance of the Current Agreement: (i) Royce’s more than 45 years of value investing experience and track record; (ii) the history of long-tenured Royce portfolio managers managing the Funds; (iii) Royce’s focus on mid-cap, small-cap and micro-cap value investing; (iv) the consistency of Royce’s approach to managing the Funds and open-end mutual funds over more than 45 years; (v) the integrity and high ethical standards adhered to at Royce; (vi) Royce’s specialized experience in the area of trading small- and micro-cap securities; (vii) Royce’s historical ability to attract and retain portfolio management talent and (viii) Royce’s focus on stockholder interests as exemplified by expansive stockholder reporting and communications. The Boards also noted that Royce’s compensation policy arrangements strongly encourage portfolio manager investment in each Fund that they manage. Each Board reviewed the services that Royce provides to each Fund, including, but not limited to, managing each Fund’s investments in accordance with the stated policies of each Fund. Each Board considered the fact that Royce provided certain administrative services to the relevant Fund at cost pursuant to the Administration Agreement between such Fund and Royce. Each Board determined that the services to be provided to each Fund by Royce would be the same as those that it previously provided to the relevant Fund. The Boards also took into consideration the histories, reputations and backgrounds of Royce’s portfolio managers for the Funds, finding that these would likely have an impact on the continued success of the Funds. Lastly, each Board noted Royce’s ability to attract and retain qualified and experienced personnel. The directors concluded that the investment advisory services provided by Royce to each Fund compared favorably to services provided by Royce to other Royce client accounts, including other funds, in both nature and quality, and that the scope of services provided by Royce would continue to be suitable for the Funds.
Investment performance of the Funds and Royce.
Although the registered investment companies managed by Royce currently span a wider risk spectrum than they have historically, Royce generally emphasizes a risk-averse approach to investing. In light of that approach, each Board believes that risk-adjusted performance continues to be the most appropriate measure of each Fund’s investment performance. One measure of risk-adjusted performance the Boards use in their review of the Funds’ performance is the Sharpe Ratio. The Sharpe Ratio is a risk-adjusted measure of performance developed by Nobel Laureate William Sharpe. It is calculated by dividing a Fund’s annualized excess returns by its annualized standard deviation to determine reward per unit of risk. The higher the Sharpe Ratio, the better a Fund’s historical risk-adjusted performance. The Boards attach primary importance to risk-adjusted performance over relatively long periods of time, typically 3 to 10 years. It was noted, however, that Royce Global Value Trust, Inc. (“RGT”) had less than ten full calendar years of performance because its inception date was October 18, 2013.
The Boards noted that domestic and international equity markets rebounded nicely in 2019 from the steep declines that took place during 2018’s fourth quarter. Although large-cap indices outperformed their smaller counterparts, the major micro-, small-, and mid-cap indices still posted impressive returns in 2019. The advance for small-cap stocks was particularly broad-based, with the large majority of issuers and sectors posting positive returns. Biotech, software, and other growth stocks were among those within the small-cap space that outperformed during the period. It was noted that Royce Value Trust, Inc. (“RVT”) ranked within the 1st Sharpe Ratio quartile in its Morningstar category for the 1-year and 3-year periods ended December 31, 2019. It was further noted that Royce Micro-Cap Trust, Inc. (“RMT”) ranked within the 3rd and 2nd Sharpe Ratio quartiles in its Morningstar category for the 1-year period and the 3-year period, respectively, ended December 31, 2019. The Boards noted that the increased return dispersion, declining correlation, and steepening yield curve that have characterized the last few year have generally resulted in improved relative performance for the Funds.
The RVT Board noted that RVT ranked within the 2nd and 4th Sharpe Ratio quartiles in its Morningstar category for the 5-year period and the 10-year period, respectively, ended December 31, 2019. The RMT Board further noted that RMT ranked within the 4th Sharpe Ratio quartile in its Morningstar category for the 5-year and 10-year periods ended December 31, 2019. A large portion of this post-2008 market period was marked by historically low interest rates and significant U.S. Federal Reserve market intervention. During this period, highly leveraged, non-earning companies and yield-oriented securities (e.g., master limited partnerships, real estate investment trusts, and utilities) generally outperformed the higher quality companies (e.g., those with solid balance sheets, low leverage, the ability to generate and effectively allocate free cash flow, and strong returns on invested capital) and cyclical companies generally favored by RVT and RMT. The directors also noted, however, that the relative performance for RVT and RMT during the more historically customary market cycle preceding the 2008 financial crisis was quite strong. In addition, the use of leverage by RVT and RMT through preferred stock (prior to November 15, 2012) and borrowings resulted in higher volatility and worse down-market performance.
60 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Board Approval of Current Investment Advisory Agreements (continued)
The RGT Board noted that RGT had less than ten full calendar years of performance because its inception date was October 18, 2013 and that RGT had been subject to the same market forces as RVT and RMT during RGT’s years of operation. Using data provided by Broadridge, the RGT Board noted that RGT’s Sharpe Ratio placed in the 3rd quartile within its Morningstar category for the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year periods ended December 31, 2019.
In addition to each Fund’s risk–adjusted performance, the Boards also reviewed and considered the absolute total returns and down-market performance for each Fund and the long-term performance records of each of RVT and RMT for periods of 10 years and longer. The Boards further noted that Royce manages a number of funds that invest in micro-cap, small-cap, and mid-cap issuers, many of which had outperformed their benchmark indexes and their competitors during the periods prior to the U.S. Federal Reserve’s near zero interest rate policy and related market interventions and more recently as noted above. Although each Board recognized that past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future results, it found that Royce had the necessary qualifications, experience and track record in managing micro-cap, small-cap, and mid-cap securities to manage the relevant Fund. Each Board determined that Royce continued to be an appropriate investment adviser for the relevant Fund and concluded that the relevant Fund’s performance supported the approval of the continuance of its Current Agreement.
Cost of the services provided and profits realized by Royce from its relationship with the Funds.
Each Board considered the cost of the services provided by Royce and profits realized by Royce from its relationship with each Fund. As part of the analysis, each Board discussed with Royce its methodology in allocating its costs to each Fund and concluded that Royce’s allocations were reasonable. The directors concluded that Royce’s profits during the year ended December 31, 2019 in respect of the Funds were reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services provided.
The extent to which economies of scale would be realized as the Funds grow and whether fee levels would reflect such economies of scale.
Each Board considered whether there have been economies of scale in respect of the management of each Fund, whether each Fund has appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there is potential for realization of any further economies of scale.
Each Board noted the time and effort involved in managing portfolios of micro-, small- and mid-cap stocks and that they did not involve the same efficiencies as do portfolios of large-cap stocks. The directors noted that, as closed-end funds, the Funds generally would not be expected to have significant inflows of capital that might produce increasing economies of scale. Each Board concluded that the current fee structure for each Fund was reasonable, that stockholders sufficiently participated in economies of scale and that no changes were currently necessary.
Comparison of services to be rendered and fees to be paid to those under other investment advisory contracts, such as contracts of the same and other investment advisers or other clients. Each Board reviewed the investment advisory fee paid by each Fund and compared both the services to be rendered and the fees to be paid under the Current Agreements to other contracts of Royce and to contracts of other investment advisers to registered investment companies investing in small- and micro-cap stocks, as provided by Morningstar. The Boards noted that the effective investment advisory fee rate for RVT and RMT was lower than the median of its Broadridge-assigned peers while the effective investment advisory fee rate for RGT was higher than the median of its Broadridge-assigned peers. Each Board further noted the importance of the net expense ratio in measuring a fund’s efficiency, particularly in light of the variations in the mutual fund industry as to which entity is responsible for particular types of expenses.
In the case of RVT, its Board noted that it had a 1.00% basic fee that is subject to adjustment up or down (up to 0.50% in either direction) based on its performance versus the S&P 600 SmallCap Index over a rolling period of 60 months. The fee is charged on average net assets over that rolling period. As a result, in a rising market, the fee will be smaller than a fee calculated on the current year’s average net assets, and vice versa. The RVT Board determined that the performance adjustment feature continued to serve as an appropriate incentive to Royce to manage RVT for the benefit of its long-term common stockholders. The RVT Board also noted that the fee arrangement, which also includes a provision for no fee in periods where RVT’s trailing three-year performance is negative, requires Royce to measure RVT’s performance monthly against the S&P 600, an unmanaged index. Instead of receiving a set fee regardless of its performance, Royce is penalized for poor performance. The directors noted that RVT’s net expense ratio of 0.76% placed it in the 1st quartile within its Broadridge-assigned peer group for 2019.
In the case of RMT, its Board noted that it also had a 1.00% basic fee subject to adjustment up or down based on its performance versus the Russell 2000 Index over a rolling 36-month period. The fee is charged on average net assets over that rolling period. As a result, in a rising market, the fee will be smaller than a fee calculated on the current year’s average net assets, and vice versa. The RMT Board determined that the performance adjustment feature continued to serve as an incentive to Royce to manage RMT for the benefit of its long-term common stockholders. The directors noted that RMT’s net expense ratio of 1.20% placed it in the 2nd quartile within its Broadridge-assigned peer group for 2019. The directors further noted that RMT’s net expense ratio was 5 basis points lower than the median of its Broadridge-assigned peer group and 15 basis points lower than the average expense ratio for the 26 non-institutional, non-ETF domestic funds with weighted average market capitalizations of less than $1 billion within the Morningstar database.
Finally, in the case of RGT, its Board noted that RGT’s net expense ratio of 1.50% placed it in the 3rd quartile within its Broadridge-assigned peer group for 2019, 18 basis points above the Broadridge-assigned peer group median. The directors also noted that RGT’s reduced investment advisory fee rate, which went into effect on January 1, 2019, played an important role in bringing down RGT’s expense ratio from 1.74% in 2018.
The Boards also noted that Royce manages the Funds in an active fashion. The industry accepted metric for measuring how actively an equity portfolio is managed is called “active share.” In particular, active share measures how much the holdings of an equity portfolio differ from the holdings of its appropriate passive benchmark index. At the extremes, a portfolio with no holdings in common with the benchmark would have 100% active share, while a portfolio that is identical to the benchmark would have 0% active share. Royce presented several analyses to the Boards which demonstrated that mutual funds with high active share scores had higher expense ratios than mutual funds with lower active share scores due to the resources required for the active management of those funds. The Boards noted that the active shares for RVT, RMT, and RGT were 86%, 96%, and 97%, respectively, for the calendar year ended December 31, 2019.
Each Board also considered fees charged by Royce to institutional and other clients and noted that, given the greater levels of services that Royce provides to registered investment companies such as the Funds as compared to other accounts, the base investment advisory fee for RVT and RMT and the advisory fee for RGT compared favorably to the investment advisory fees charged to those other accounts.
No single factor was cited as determinative to the decision of the directors. Rather, after weighing all of the considerations and conclusions discussed above, each entire Board, including all of the non-interested directors, approved the continuation of the relevant Current Agreement, concluding that the continuation of such agreements was in the best interest of the shareholders of the respective Funds and that each Fund’s investment advisory fee rate was reasonable in relation to the services provided.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 61
Board Approval of Current Investment Advisory Agreements (continued)
Each Board also noted that it had approved a new investment advisory agreement and an interim investment advisory agreement for the relevant Fund in connection with Franklin Resources Inc.’s pending acquisition of Legg Mason, Inc., Royce’s indirect corporate parent, at a meeting held on April 22, 2020. Each Board was advised at such meeting that the completion of such transaction would constitute a “change of control” under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) that would result in the termination of the corresponding Current Agreement. Each Board was further informed at such meeting that effectiveness of a new investment advisory agreement is subject to its approval by the shareholders of the relevant Fund in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act and the completion of such transaction. After weighing all of the considerations and conclusions discussed above, each full Board, including all of the non-interested directors, also determined to ratify its approval of the new and interim investment advisory agreements, concluding that such agreements were in the best interest of the stockholders of the relevant Fund and that the relevant Fund’s investment advisory fee rate was reasonable in relation to the services provided.
62 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Board Approval of New Investment Advisory Agreements
On February 17, 2020, Legg Mason, Inc. (“Legg Mason”), the indirect corporate parent of Royce & Associates, LP (“Royce”), entered into a definitive agreement (the “Transaction Agreement”) with Franklin Resources, Inc., a global investment management organization operating as Franklin Templeton (referred to herein as “Franklin Templeton”), pursuant to which Franklin Templeton would, subject to the satisfaction of certain terms and conditions, acquire Legg Mason (referred to herein as the “Transaction”). At meetings of the Boards of Directors (each, a “Board” and collectively, the “Boards”) of Royce Global Value Trust, Inc., Royce Micro-Cap Trust, Inc., and Royce Value Trust, Inc. (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”) held on April 21, 2020 (each, an “April Board Meeting” and collectively, the “April Board Meetings”), representatives of Royce, Legg Mason, and Franklin Templeton made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Boards regarding the Transaction and Franklin Templeton’s plans and intentions regarding Legg Mason’s asset management business, including the preservation and continued investment autonomy of Royce and the combination of the distribution resources of Royce, Legg Mason, and Franklin Templeton. The Boards were advised that the Transaction, if completed, would constitute a “change of control” under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) that would result in the termination of the investment advisory agreements in place between: (i) Royce and Royce Global Value Trust, Inc., (ii) Royce and Royce Micro-Cap Trust, Inc., and (iii) Royce and Royce Value Trust, Inc. (each, a “Current Agreement” and collectively, the “Current Agreements”). At each April Board Meeting, which included meetings of the relevant full Board and separate meetings of the non-interested directors, each Board considered, among other things, whether it would be in the best interests of the relevant Fund and its stockholders to approve the corresponding New Agreement, and the anticipated impacts of the Transaction on such Fund and its stockholders. Each Board, including a majority of the non-interested directors, approved the corresponding New Agreement at the April Board Meeting.
To assist each Board in its consideration of the corresponding New Agreement, Franklin Templeton provided materials and information about Franklin Templeton, including its financial condition and asset management capabilities and organization. Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason also provided materials and information about the Transaction. The non-interested directors, through their independent legal counsel, also requested and received additional information from Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason in connection with the non-interested directors’ consideration of the New Agreements. The additional information was provided in advance of the April Board Meetings. After the presentations and after reviewing the written materials provided, the non-interested directors met in executive session with their counsel to consider the New Agreements.
Each Board’s evaluation of the corresponding New Agreement reflected the information provided specifically in connection with its review of such New Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously furnished to such Board in connection with the most recent renewal of the corresponding Current Agreement at in-person meetings held on June 5, 2019 and at other Board meetings held thereafter.
Among other things, the trustees considered:
(i) the reputation, experience, financial strength, and resources of Franklin Templeton and its investment advisory subsidiaries;
(ii) that Franklin Templeton has informed the Boards that it intends to maintain the investment autonomy of the Legg Mason investment advisory subsidiaries, including Royce;
(iii) that Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason have informed the Boards that, following the Transaction, there is not expected to be any diminution in the nature, extent, and quality of services provided to the Funds and their stockholders by Royce, including compliance and non-advisory services, and has represented that there are not expected to be any changes in the portfolio management personnel managing the Funds as a result of the Transaction;
(iv) that there will not be any changes to the Funds’ custodian or other service providers as a result of the Transaction;
(v) that Franklin Templeton has informed the Boards that it has no present intention to alter any currently effective fee waiver and expense reimbursement arrangements for the U.S. registered investment companies advised by Royce, and, while it reserves the right to do so in the future, it would consult with the Boards before making any future changes;
(vi) that Franklin Templeton does not expect to propose any changes to the investment objective or principal investment strategies of any Fund as a result of the Transaction;
(vii) the potential benefits to Fund stockholders from being part of a combined fund family with Franklin Templeton-sponsored funds and access to a broader array of investment and distribution opportunities;
(viii) that Franklin Templeton’s distribution capabilities, particularly with respect to retail investors, and significant network of intermediary relationships may provide additional opportunities for the Funds to grow assets and lower fees and expenses by spreading expenses over a larger asset base;
(ix) that each of Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason will derive benefits from the Transaction and that, as a result, they have a financial interest in the matters that were being considered;
(x) the fact that each Fund’s contractual investment advisory fee rate and administrative fee arrangements will remain the same and will not increase by virtue of the corresponding New Agreement;
(xi) the terms and conditions of each New Agreement, including that each New Agreement is substantially identical to the corresponding Current Agreement except for the date of execution, effectiveness, and termination and certain non-material updating changes;
(xii) the support expressed by the current senior management team at Legg Mason for the Transaction and Legg Mason’s recommendation that the Boards approve the New Agreements;
(xiii) that each Current Agreement is the product of multiple years of review and negotiation and information received and considered by the relevant Board in the exercise of its business judgment during those years, and that on June 5, 2019 the relevant Board had performed a full review of and approved the corresponding Current Agreement as required by the 1940 Act and had determined in the exercise of its business judgment that Royce has the capabilities, resources, and personnel necessary to provide the services provided to the relevant Fund, and that the investment advisory fees paid by or in respect of such Fund represent reasonable compensation to Royce in light of the services provided, the costs to Royce of providing those services, the fees and other expenses paid by similar funds, and such other matters as such Board considered relevant in the exercise of its business judgment, and represented an appropriate sharing between Fund stockholders and Royce of any economies of scale in the management of the relevant Fund at current and anticipated asset levels;
(xiv) that each Current Agreement was considered and approved on June 5, 2019;
(xv) that the Funds will not bear the costs of obtaining stockholder approval of the New Agreements, including the legal costs associated with the proxy solicitation, regardless of whether the Transaction is consummated; and
(xvi) that under the Transaction Agreement, Franklin Templeton acknowledged that Legg Mason had entered into such Transaction Agreement in reliance upon the benefits and protections provided by Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act, and that, in furtherance of the foregoing, Franklin Templeton agreed to use reasonable best efforts to conduct its business so that (a) for a period of not less than three years after the closing of the Transaction, no more than 25% of the directors shall be “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of Royce, and (b) for a period of not less than two years after the closing of the Transaction, neither Franklin Templeton nor any of its affiliates shall impose an “unfair burden” (within the meaning of the 1940 Act, including any interpretations or no-action letters of the Securities and Exchange Commission) on any Fund as a result of the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Agreement or any express or implied terms, conditions, or understandings applicable thereto.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 63
Board Approval of New Investment Advisory Agreements (continued)
Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
In their deliberations, the directors considered information received in connection with the most recent approval or continuation of each Current Agreement in addition to information provided by Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason in connection with their evaluation of the terms and conditions of the corresponding New Agreement. Each Board also took into account information furnished throughout the year at regular Board meetings, including reports on investment performance, stockholder services, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity risk, allocation of brokerage commissions, “soft dollar” research services received by Royce, and other direct and indirect benefits to Royce and its affiliates from their relationship with the relevant Fund. The directors did not identify any particular information that was all-important or controlling, and each director may have attributed different weights to the various factors.
The information provided and presentations made to each Board encompassed the relevant Fund. The discussion below for each Fund covers both the investment advisory functions rendered by Royce for the relevant Fund pursuant to the corresponding New Agreement and the administrative functions rendered by Royce for the relevant Fund pursuant to the corresponding Administration Agreement, by and between Royce and the Fund.
The non-interested directors were advised by separate independent legal counsel throughout the process. Prior to voting, the non-interested directors received a memorandum from their independent legal counsel discussing the legal standards for their consideration of each New Agreement. The non-interested directors also reviewed and discussed the proposed approval of each New Agreement with their independent legal counsel in a private session at which no representatives of Royce, Legg Mason, or Franklin Templeton were present.
Nature, extent, and quality of the service under the New Agreements.
The Boards received and considered information regarding the nature, extent, and quality of services provided to the Funds by Royce under the Current Agreements. The Boards considered the following factors to be of fundamental importance to its consideration of the Current Agreements: (i) Royce’s more than 45 years of value investing experience and track record; (ii) the history of long-tenured Royce portfolio managers managing many of its other open-end mutual funds, and closed-end funds; (iii) Royce’s focus on mid-cap, small-cap and micro-cap value investing; (iv) the consistency of Royce’s approach to managing the Funds and open-end mutual funds over more than 45 years; (v) the integrity and high ethical standards adhered to at Royce; (vi) Royce’s specialized experience in the area of trading small- and micro-cap securities; (vii) Royce’s historical ability to attract and retain portfolio management talent; and (viii) Royce’s focus on stockholder interests as exemplified by expansive stockholder reporting and communications. The Boards also noted that Royce’s compensation policy arrangements strongly encourage portfolio manager investment in any fund that they manage. The Boards also reviewed the services that Royce provides to the Funds, including, but not limited to, managing the Funds’ investments in accordance with their stated investment policies. Each Board considered the fact that Royce provided certain administrative services to the relevant Fund at cost pursuant to the corresponding Administration Agreement between Royce and such Fund. The Boards also took into consideration the histories, reputations and backgrounds of Royce’s portfolio managers for the Funds, finding that these would likely have an impact on the continued success of the Funds. The Boards also noted Royce’s ability to attract and retain qualified and experienced personnel.
In evaluating the nature, extent, and quality of the services to be provided to each Fund by Royce under the corresponding New Agreement, the directors considered, among other things, the expected impact, if any, of the Transaction on the operations, facilities, organization and personnel of Royce, and that Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason have advised each Board that, following the completion of the Transaction, there is not expected to be any diminution in the nature, extent, and quality of the services provided to such Fund and its stockholders by Royce, including compliance and other non-advisory services, and that there are not expected to be any changes in portfolio management personnel for such Fund as a result of the Transaction. The Boards also considered information provided by Franklin Templeton regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operation, leadership and reputation, distribution capabilities, and financial condition. Each Board recognized the importance of the relevant Fund having an investment adviser with access to significant organizational and financial resources.
Each Board received and considered information prepared internally by Royce and independently by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”) using the database and methodology of Morningstar Associates, LLC (“Morningstar”) containing detailed investment advisory fee, expense ratio, and investment performance comparisons for the relevant Fund with other funds in its “peer group” and “category” in connection with its consideration of the corresponding Current Agreement. Each Board was provided with a description of the methodology used to determine the similarity of the relevant Fund with the funds included in its peer group. It was noted that while the directors found the Broadridge data generally useful, they recognized its limitations, including that the data may vary depending on the end date selected and that the results of the performance comparisons may vary depending on the selection of the peer group and its composition over time. The directors believe that risk-adjusted performance continues to be the most appropriate measure of each Fund’s investment performance and attach primary importance to risk-adjusted performance over relatively long periods of time, typically 3 to 10 years. The Board for Royce Global Value Trust, Inc. noted that the Fund had less than 10 full calendar years of performance because its inception date was October 18, 2013. It was also noted that each Board received and discussed with management information throughout the year at periodic intervals comparing the relevant Fund’s performance against its benchmark and against its peers. In addition, each Board considered the relevant Fund’s performance in light of overall financial market conditions. Where a Fund’s performance was below the median during one or more specified periods, the relevant Board noted the explanations from Royce concerning such Fund’s relative performance versus the peer group for the various periods. Each Board also reviewed and considered the relevant Fund’s absolute total returns, monthly rolling average returns, and down-market performance for such Fund. The Boards for Royce Micro-Cap Trust, Inc. and Royce Value Trust, Inc. also reviewed and considered their respective long-term performance records beyond 10 years.
Based on their review of the materials provided and the assurances they had received from Franklin Templeton, Legg Mason, and Royce, the directors determined that the Transaction was not expected to affect adversely the nature, extent, and quality of services provided by Royce and that the Transaction was not expected to have a material adverse effect on Royce’s ability to provide those services, and each Board concluded that, overall, the nature, extent, and quality of services expected to be provided, including performance, under the corresponding New Agreement were sufficient for approval.
64 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Board Approval of New Investment Advisory Agreements (continued)
Investment advisory fees and expense ratios.
Each Board reviewed and considered the relevant Fund’s contractual investment advisory fee rate, the actual investment advisory fee rate paid by the Fund, and the Fund’s total and net operating expense ratio in light of the nature, extent, and quality of the investment advisory services provided to the Fund by Royce in connection with its consideration of the corresponding Current Agreement. In addition, each Board has also received and considered information provided by Broadridge comparing the relevant Fund’s contractual investment advisory fee rate, the actual investment advisory fee rate paid by the Fund, and the Fund’s total and net expense ratios with those of funds in both the relevant expense group and a broader group of funds, each selected by Broadridge based on classifications provided by Morningstar. It was noted that while each Board found the Broadridge data generally useful they recognized its limitations, including that the data my vary depending on the selection of the peer group. The Boards has also noted in the past that Royce manages the Funds in an active fashion and that the Funds have historically had a high active share score. The directors also considered fees charged by Royce to institutional and other clients and noted that, given the greater levels of services that Royce provides to registered investment companies such as the Funds as compared to other accounts, the Funds’ investment advisory fees compared favorably to these other accounts.
In evaluating the costs of the services to be provided by Royce under the New Agreements, the directors considered, among other things, whether investment advisory fees or other expenses would change as a result of the Transaction. Based on their review of the materials provided and the assurances they had received from Franklin Templeton, Legg Mason, and Royce, the directors determined that the Transaction would not increase the total fees payable by any Fund for investment advisory services.
Taking all of the above into consideration, as well as the factors identified below, each Board determined that the investment advisory fee for the relevant Fund was reasonable in light of the nature, extent, and quality of the services to be provided under the corresponding New Agreement.
Profitability and economies of scale.
Each Board considered the cost of the services provided by Royce and the profits realized by Royce from its relationship with the relevant Fund in connection with its consideration of the corresponding Current Agreement. As part of the analysis, each Board discussed with Royce its methodology in allocating its costs to the relevant Fund and concluded that Royce’s allocations were reasonable. Each Board concluded that Royce’s profits with respect to the relevant Fund were reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services provided.
Each Board also considered whether there have been economies of scale in respect of the management of the relevant Fund, whether the Fund has appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there is potential for realization of any further economies of scale in connection with its consideration of the corresponding Current Agreement. The Boards noted the time and effort involved in managing portfolios of small- and micro-cap stocks and that they did not involve the same efficiencies as do portfolios of large-cap stocks. The directors further noted that, as closed-end funds, the Funds generally would not be expected to have significant inflows of capital that might produce increasing economies of scale. The directors concluded that the current fee structure for each Fund was reasonable and that its stockholders sufficiently participated in economies of scale and that no changes were necessary.
The directors noted that Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason expected to realize cost savings from the Transaction based on synergies of operations. However, they noted that other factors could also affect profitability and potential economies of scale, and that it was not possible to predict with any degree of certainty how the Transaction would affect Royce’s profitability from its relationship with any Fund, nor to quantify at this time any possible future economies of scale, but the directors noted they would continue to evaluate these matters going forward.
Other benefits to Royce.
The Boards considered other benefits received by Royce as a result of its relationship with the Funds, including the opportunity to offer additional products and services to Fund stockholders. In light of the costs of providing investment advisory and other services to the Funds and the ongoing commitment of Royce to the Funds, the Boards considered that the ancillary benefits that Royce received were reasonable. In evaluating the fall-out benefits to be received by Royce under the New Agreements, the directors considered whether the Transaction would have an impact on the fall-out benefits received by virtue of the Current Agreements. Based on their review of the materials provided, and their discussions with Franklin Templeton and Legg Mason, the directors determined that those benefits could include increased ability for Franklin Templeton, Legg Mason, and Royce to distribute shares of their funds and other investment products. The directors noted that any such benefits were difficult to quantify with certainty at this time, and indicated that they would continue to evaluate them going forward.
The Boards also considered that Franklin Templeton may derive reputational and other benefits from its ability to use the Royce name in connection with operating and marketing of its funds. The Boards also considered that the Transaction, if completed, would significantly increase Franklin Templeton’s assets under management and expand Franklin Templeton’s investment capabilities.
Conclusion.
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, and in the exercise of their business judgment, the directors, including the non-interested directors, unanimously concluded that each New Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and that entering into the New Agreement was in the best interests of the relevant Fund’s stockholders, and they voted to approve each New Agreement and to recommend that the stockholders of each Fund vote to approve the corresponding New Agreement.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 65
Notes to Performance and Other Important Information
The thoughts expressed in this Review and Report concerning recent market movements and future prospects for small company stocks are solely the opinion of Royce at June 30, 2020, and, of course, historical market trends are not necessarily indicative of future market movements. Statements regarding the future prospects for particular securities held in the Funds’ portfolios and Royce’s investment intentions with respect to those securities reflect Royce’s opinions as of June 30, 2020 and are subject to change at any time without notice. There can be no assurance that securities mentioned in this Review and Report will be included in any Royce-managed portfolio in the future. Investments in securities of micro-cap, small-cap and/or mid- cap companies may involve considerably more risk than investments in securities of larger-cap companies. All publicly released material information is always disclosed by the Funds on the website at www. royceinvest.com.
Sector weightings are determined using the Global Industry Classification Standard (“GICS”). GICS was developed by, and is the exclusive property of, Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC (“S&P”) and MSCI Inc. (“MSCI”). GICS is the trademark of S&P and MSCI. “Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS)” and “GICS Direct” are service marks of S&P and MSCI.
All indexes referred to are unmanaged and capitalization weighted. Each index’s returns include net reinvested dividends and/or interest income. Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Frank Russell Company. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings and/or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell Data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor or endorse the content of this communication. The Russell 2000 Index is an index of domestic small-cap stocks. It measures the performance of the 2,000 smallest publicly traded U.S. companies in the Russell 3000 Index. The Russell 2000 Value and Growth Indexes consist of the respective value and growth stocks within the Russell 2000 as determined by Russell Investments. The Russell Microcap Index includes 1,000 of the smallest securities in the Russell 2000 Index along with the next smallest eligible securities as determined by Russell. The Russell 1000 Index is an index of domestic large-cap stocks. It measures the performance of the 1,000 largest publicly traded companies in the Russell 3000 Index. Source: MSCI. MSCI makes no express or implied warranties or representations and shall have no liability whatsoever with respect to any MSCI data contained herein. The MSCI data may not be further redistributed or used as a basis for other indexes or any securities or financial products. This report is not approved, endorsed, reviewed or produced by MSCI. None of the MSCI data is intended to constitute investment advice or a recommendation to make (or refrain from making) any kind of investment decision and may not be relied on as such. The MSCI ACWI Small Cap Index is an unmanaged, capitalization-weighted index of global small-cap stocks. Index returns include net reinvested dividends and/ or interest income. The S&P 600 is an index of U.S. small-cap stocks selected by Standard & Poor’s based on market size, liquidity, and industry grouping, among other factors. The CRSP (Center for Research in Security Pricing) equally divides the companies listed on the NYSE into 10 deciles based on market capitalization. Deciles 1-5 represent the largest domestic equity companies and Deciles 6-10 represent the smallest. CRSP then sorts all listed domestic equity companies based on these market cap ranges. By way of comparison, the CRSP 1-5 would have similar capitalization parameters to the S&P 500 and the CRSP 6-10 would have similar capitalization parameters to those of the Russell 2000. The performance of an index does not represent exactly any particular investment, as you cannot invest directly in an index. Returns for the market indexes used in this report were based on information supplied to Royce by Russell Investments. The ISM Manufacturing Index (ISM) monitors employment, production, inventories, new orders and supplier deliveries.
The Price-Earnings, or P/E, Ratio is calculated by dividing a company’s share price by its trailing 12-month earnings-per-share (EPS). The Price-to-Book, or P/B, Ratio is calculated by dividing a company’s share price by its book value per share. The Morningstar Style Map uses proprietary scores of a stock’s value and growth characteristics to determine its placement in one of the five categories listed on the horizontal axis. These characteristics are then compared to those of other stocks within the same market capitalization band. Each is scored from zero to 100 for both value and growth attributes. The value score is subtracted from the growth score to determine the overall style score. For the vertical, market cap axis, Morningstar subdivides into size groups. Giant-cap stocks are defined as those that account for the top 40% of the capitalization of each style zone; large-cap stocks represent the next 30%; mid-cap stocks the next 20%; small-cap stocks the next 7%; micro-cap stocks the smallest 3%. The Royce Funds is a service mark of The Royce Funds. Distributor: Royce Fund Services, LLC.
Forward-Looking Statements
This material contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), that involve risks and uncertainties, including, among others, statements as to:
| • | the Funds’ future operating results |
| • | the prospects of the Funds’ portfolio companies |
| • | the impact of investments that the Funds have made or may make |
| • | the dependence of the Funds’ future success on the general economy and its impact on the companies and industries in which the Funds invest, and |
| • | the ability of the Funds’ portfolio companies to achieve their objectives. |
This Review and Report uses words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “future,” “intends,” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements for any reason.
The Royce Funds have based the forward-looking statements included in this Review and Report on information available to us on the date of the report, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Although The Royce Funds undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make through future stockholder communications or reports.
Authorized Share Transactions
Royce Global Value Trust, Royce Micro-Cap Trust, and Royce Value Trust may each repurchase up to 5% of the issued and outstanding shares of its respective common stock during the year ending December 31, 2020. Any such repurchases would take place at then prevailing prices in the open market or in other transactions. Common stock repurchases would be effected at a price per share that is less than the share’s then current net asset value.
Royce Global Value Trust, Royce Micro-Cap Trust, and Royce Value Trust are also authorized to offer their common stockholders an opportunity to subscribe for additional shares of their common stock through rights offerings at a price per share that may be less than the share’s then current net asset value. The timing and terms of any such offerings are within each Board’s discretion.
66 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
Notes to Performance and Other Important Information
Annual Certifications
As required, the Funds have submitted to the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) for the annual certification of the Funds’ Chief Executive Officer that he is not aware of any violation of the NYSE’s listing standards. The Funds also have included the certification of the Funds’ Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required by section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 as exhibits to the Funds’ form N-CSR for the period ended December 31, 2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Proxy Voting
A copy of the policies and procedures that The Royce Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities and information regarding how each of The Royce Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available, without charge, on The Royce Funds’ website at www.royceinvest.com, by calling (800) 221-4268 (toll-free) and on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), at www.sec.gov.
Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings
The Funds’ complete portfolio holdings are also available on Exhibit F to Form N-PORT, which filings are made with the SEC within 60 days of the end of the first and third fiscal quarters. The Funds’ Form N-PORT filings are available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.
2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders | 67
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68 | 2020 Semiannual Report to Stockholders
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| | About Royce Investment Partners | | Contact Us | |
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| | Unparalleled Knowledge + Experience | | GENERAL INFORMATION | |
| | Pioneers in small-cap investing, with 45+ years | | General Royce Funds information including an | |
| | of experience, depth of knowledge, and focus. | | overview of our firm and Funds | |
| | | | (800) 221-4268 | |
| | Independent Thinking | | | |
| | The confidence to go against consensus, the insight | | COMPUTERSHARE | |
| | to uncover opportunities others might miss, and the | | Transfer Agent and Registrar | |
| | tenacity to stay the course through market cycles. | | Speak with a representative about: | |
| | | | • Your account, transactions, and forms | |
| | Specialized Approaches | | (800) 426-5523 | |
| | U.S., international, and global investment strategies | | | |
| | that pursue approaches with different risk profiles. | | FINANCIAL ADVISORS AND BROKER-DEALERS | |
| | | | Speak with your regional Royce contact regarding: | |
| | Unwavering Commitment | | • Information about our firm, strategies, and Funds | |
| | Our team of 18 portfolio managers has significant | | • Fund Materials | |
| | personal investments in the strategies they manage. | | (800) 337-6923 | |
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Item 2. Code(s) of Ethics. Not applicable to this semi-annual report.
Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert. Not applicable to this semi-annual report.
Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services. Not applicable to this semi-annual report.
Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants. Not applicable to this semi-annual report.
Item 6. Investments.
(a) See Item 1.
(b) Not applicable.
Item 7. Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies. Not applicable to this semi-annual report.
Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies. Not applicable to this semi-annual report.
Item 9. Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers. Not Applicable
Item 10. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders. Not Applicable.
Item 11. Controls and Procedures.
(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures. The Principal Executive and Financial Officers concluded that the Registrant's Disclosure Controls and Procedures are effective based on their evaluation of the Disclosure Controls and Procedures as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this report.
(b) Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There were no significant changes in Registrant's internal control over financial reporting or in other factors that could significantly affect this control subsequent to the date of the evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses during the period covered by this report.
Item 12. Exhibits. Attached hereto.
(a)(1) Not applicable to this semi-annual report.
(a)(2) Separate certifications by the Registrant’s Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer as required by Rule 30a-2(a) under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
(a)(3) Not Applicable
(b) Separate certifications by the Registrant’s Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and required by Rule 30a-2(b) under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
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.
ROYCE VALUE TRUST, INC.
BY: /s/ Christopher D. Clark
Christopher D. Clark
President
Date: August 28, 2020
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.
| ROYCE VALUE TRUST, INC. | ROYCE VALUE TRUST, INC. |
| | |
| BY: /s/ Christopher D. Clark | BY: /s/ Peter K. Hoglund |
| Christopher D. Clark | Peter K. Hoglund |
| President | Chief Financial Officer |
| | |
| Date: August 28, 2020 | Date: August 28, 2020 |
