IN BRIEF: Global Smaller Cos ups payout but total return underperforms
Global Smaller Cos Trust PLC - FTSE 250-listed London-based investment trust - Net asset value per share grows 1.5% to 180.80 pence as at October 31, from 178.07p at April 30. Global Smaller posts an interim NAV total return of 2.7%, underperforming against its benchmark, which had a total return of 5.7%. Interim dividend rises by 2.9% to 0.70p per share from 0.68p a year ago. Looking ahead, the company expects falling inflation and monetary policy easing, which it notes "should be supportive for risk assets in general." Lead Manager Nish Patel says: "There are many uncertainties today, yet we have seen the valuation of equities expand and spreads on corporate bonds narrow. It looks like complacency is setting in and so we think it is right to proceed with caution but to take advantage of any opportunities that present themselves." Read More