RNS Number : 5111A
North American Income Trust (The)
24 September 2025
JANUS HENDERSON FUND MANAGEMENT UK LIMITED THE NORTH AMERICAN INCOME TRUST PLC LEGAL ENTITY IDENTIFIER: 5493007GCUW7G2BKY360 24 September 2025 THE NORTH AMERICAN INCOME TRUST PLC Unaudited results for the half-year ended 31 July 2025 INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Company seeks to provide investors with above average dividend income and long-term capital growth through active management of a portfolio consisting predominantly of S&P 500 US equities. PERFORMANCE
Total return performance(including dividends reinvested and excluding transaction costs)
6 months %
1 year %
3 years %
5 years %
10 years %
NAV per share1
-1.2
9.9
27.1
78.6
191.0
Share price 2
0.5
15.9
28.8
85.9
205.4
Russell 1000 Value Index (in sterling terms)
-4.3
5.6
24.4
84.2
184.4
S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index (in sterling terms)
-3.0
1.5
8.6
69.3
201.6
Average sector NAV 3
0.5
14.7
34.4
86.4
218.1
Financial highlights
Shareholders' funds
at 31 July 2025
at 31 July 2024
at 31 Jan 2025
Net assets
£438.0m
£455.2m
£467.8m
Net asset value per ordinary share
367.9p
346.2p
379.2p
Discount (debt at par)4
(7.3%)
(11.3%)
(8.5%)
Share price
341.0p
307.0p
347.0p
Net gearing
7.4%
7.1%
7.8%
Dividend per share for the half-year
5.6p
5.4p
12.2p
Revenue reserves per ordinary share
18.1p
16.2p
18.4p
Half-year ended 31 July 2025 £'000
Half-year ended 31 July 2024 £'000
Year ended 31 Jan 2025 £'000
Total return to equity shareholders
Revenue return after taxation
7,247
8,068
16,315
Capital return after taxation
(14,260)
36,797
74,429
----------
----------
-------------
Total return
(7,013)
44,865
90,744
======
======
========
Total return per ordinary share
Revenue
5.97p
5.98p
12.44p
Capital
(11.74p)
27.30p
56.76p
----------
----------
-----------
Total return per ordinary share
(5.77p)
33.28p
69.20p
======
========
========
1. NAV per ordinary share with dividends reinvested and excluding reinvestment costs
2. Share price using mid-market closing prices
3. The sector is the Association of Investment Companies ('AIC') North America
4. The discount is calculated using the net assets and the share price at each date
Sources: Morningstar Direct, Janus Henderson Investors, BNP Paribas
http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/5111A_1-2025-9-23.pdf
Historical record - Year to 31 January
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
As at 31 Jul 20251
Net assets2
£281m
£379m
£392m
£399m
£414m
£375m
£448m
£473m
£436m
£468m
£438m
NAV3*
187.1p
264.7p
275.5p
280.4p
288.9p
262.5p
318.8p
337.2p
317.8p
379.2p
367.9p
Share price*
163.0p
246.4p
260.0p
268.0p
290.0p
234.0p
283.0p
306.0p
289.0p
347.0p
341.0p
Net revenue*
7.15p
7.98p
8.42p
10.04p
11.42p
11.79p
10.28p
12.21p
11.95p
12.44p
5.97p
Net dividends paid per ordinary share*
6.60p
7.20p
7.80p
8.50p
9.50p
10.00p
10.30p
11.00p
11.70p
12.20p
5.60p4
1 Net revenue and net dividends paid are for the six-month period ended 31 July 2025
2 Attributable to ordinary shares
3 NAV per ordinary share with debt at par value
4 First interim dividend of 2.80p per ordinary share paid on 31 July 2025 and second interim dividend of 2.80p per ordinary share that will be paid on 31 October 2025.
*Comparative figures for 2016 to 2019 inclusive have been restated to reflect the sub-division of each existing Ordinary share of 25p into five Ordinary shares of 5p each on 10 June 2019
INTERIM MANAGEMENT REPORT
Chairman's Statement
Dear Shareholder,
I am pleased to report for the six months ended 31 July 2025 the Company outperformed both its reference index, the Russell 1000 Value Index, and the index that is used for the contingent performance hurdle, the S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index. The Company's net asset value (NAV) total return per share (which includes dividends reinvested) decreased by 1.2% compared to a 4.3% decline in the total return of the Company's reference indices, the Russell 1000 Value Index, in sterling terms and a decline of 3.0% in the S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index, in sterling terms. The Company's share price total return was 0.5% as the Company's discount to NAV decreased by 1.2% and ended the half-year reporting period at 7.3%.
The outperformance relative to the Russell 1000 Value Index was mainly driven by stock selection, with some of this outperformance from some of our faster growing names that had de-rated in March and April.
The first half of our financial year has been challenging, with an initial steep fall in the US markets from February to mid-April caused by the US Government's introduction of tariffs on imports. In late April, as pauses to the implementation of tariffs were announced, markets staged a rapid recovery. Artificial Intelligence (AI) stocks and large capitalisation technology stocks led the rebound. During the market selloff the managers adroitly took advantage of the volatility in share prices to the Company's benefit. The Fund Managers' report goes into further detail on the stocks and sectors that helped or detracted from performance. The Board monitors portfolio performance regularly and receives quarterly reports from the Manager on portfolio changes and the decisions behind them. The Board is pleased to see the improving relative performance following the change to the Manager in 2024.
Revenue Account
The Company's portfolio generated revenue return of 5.97 pence per share compared to last year's 5.98 pence. Dividend payments from equities contributed 79% of the Company's gross income, while options continue to be part of the portfolio and represented 20% of the Company's total gross income. The balance of revenues came from cash, accounting for only 1%.
Dividend growth has been as expected. However, currency has been a detracting factor as the Fund Managers describe in their report, the dollar declined relative to sterling by approximately 6.1% over the six months in the first half of the financial year which impacted the revenue account. Of the stocks that raised dividends in the first half of the financial year, the average raise was 8.9% and the median raise was 6.9% (the difference reflects the 33.3% increase in the Goldman Sachs dividend which materially impacted the average).
Dividend
The Board remains committed to a progressive dividend policy and seeks to continue the track record of fourteen consecutive years of dividend growth.
The Board is pleased to declare a second interim dividend of 2.8 pence per share, resulting in total dividends for the half-year ended 31 July 2025 of 5.6 pence per share (2024: 5.4p) representing annual growth of 3.8%. The second interim dividend will be paid on 31 October 2025 to shareholders on the register on 3 October 2025.
The Board declared, on 3 June 2025, a first interim dividend of 2.8 pence per share (2024: 2.7p) representing annual growth of 3.7%. The first interim dividend was paid on 31 July 2025 to shareholders on the register on 27 June 2025.
In reaching its decision on dividends, the Board always balances the wish to increase the amount distributed to shareholders with the recognition that currency can have a variable impact on earnings per share. The Fund Managers' continued efforts to build the revenue reserve, which stands at over one year's cover, gives comfort that at times of stress the Company can dip into this reserve to maintain the dividend.
Management of Premium and Discount
The Company's share price ended the half-year to 31 July 2025 at 341.0 pence, a 7.3% discount to the total NAV of 367.9 pence. This compares to an 8.5% discount at the end of the financial year ended 31 January 2025.
During the half-year, 4.3 million (2024: 5.9 million) shares were bought back and cancelled at an average price of 332.36 pence and an average discount of 8.7% (2024: 12.2%). The total cost was £14.5 million. In the year ended 31 January 2025, 14.0 million shares were repurchased at an average discount of 11.4%. Since 31 July 2025, the Company has bought back an additional 3.2 million shares at an average discount of 7.5% and at a cost of £10.8 million. 11.1 million shares (8.7% of the issued share capital) are currently held in treasury.
Gearing
The Board believes that the sensible use of gearing should enhance returns to our shareholders over the longer term. The Company benefits from its long-term financing agreements totalling US$50 million with MetLife which comprise two loans of US$25 million with terms of 10 and 15 years. These are fixed at 2.70% and 2.96% per annum expiring in December 2030 and 2035 respectively. Net gearing on 31 July 2025 stood at 7.4%.
Board Activity
On 1 May 2025, Bulbul Barrett was appointed a director of the Company. Bulbul brings a wealth of financial markets experience and marketing knowledge to the Company. On 1 October 2025, as already announced via the London Stock Exchange Regulatory News Service, John Adebiyi will also join the Board. John brings his considerable legal experience to the Board and together we feel we have a diverse collection of Directors working in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders.
During the first half of the year, I took the opportunity to meet with several investors to gain a deeper understanding of their interests in the Company and address questions on a more informal basis. As usual, we encourage all shareholders to contact the Board with any queries via the Corporate Secretary using the contact details provided in note 15.
Outlook
Despite the concerns over trade tariffs, second quarter earnings in the US proved robust and around 80% of S&P 500 companies exceeded earnings expectations at the time of writing. The rally in the market has left the broader S&P 500 Index trading on a historically high valuation of 22 to 23x forward earnings estimates, leaving those companies that miss their earnings expectations vulnerable to severe drawdowns. The Company's portfolio is, on the other hand, trading on a more reasonable forward earnings multiple of approximately 16x. AI is a disruptive technology that is expected to reduce costs and improve productivity across all industries, but will also challenge some business models that find themselves on the wrong side of that disruption. In a more volatile world, it is vital to have experienced managers making stock decisions. The Fund Managers believe they have a balanced portfolio in high quality companies that are relatively insulated from the macroeconomic forces at play. The median growth rate of dividends from the companies in the Company's portfolio was just under 7% in the first half of the year and the Fund Managers expect a similar rate in the second half of 2025. If that is the case the outlook for earnings and dividends looks encouraging, but a myriad of risks - including dollar weakness, as we saw in the first half of the year - could counteract that outlook.
Charles Park
Chairman
23 September 2025
Fund Managers' Report
Market review
The six months ending 31 July 2025 felt like a tale of two markets, with a dramatic sell-off from mid-February through mid-April and then a full reversal from April through to the end of the period on 31 July and beyond through August. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) readings in the first half of 2025 were equally uneven. Annualised GDP was down 0.5% in the first quarter, impacted by the front loading of inventories (net exports) before tariff implementation. The second quarter reading of +3.3% saw some reversal of this first quarter, leaving first half GDP growing at approximately 1.5% on an annualised basis. Tariff implementation is a risk to GDP in the second half of the year, but any weakness on this front would give the Federal Reserve (the Fed) further ability to lower rates closer to neutral.
Corporate earnings have largely been impressive with three consecutive quarters of at least 10% earnings per share growth going back to the fourth quarter of 2024 despite a less predictable backdrop with predictions of much more muted earnings. From here, the tariff impact should be more noticeable, though most tariff rates have settled between 10% (UK) and 20% (Vietnam) with the obvious statement that the journey here has been volatile and unpredictable. Canada and Mexico have a lot of trade done under the current North American trade policy which means their tariff rates net out to a sub-5% level - they are relative "winners" for now.
Employment is arguably the biggest wildcard as initial claims (firings) remain muted at generational low levels resulting in unemployment at an otherwise "full" 4.25%. To be sure, much of the recent job shortfall is in the government sector, which will continue through September when the Federal furloughs begin. This is healthy as the US Government added an extraordinary number of new jobs during 2021 to 2024. Below the surface there are mixed messages with continuing claims slowly building as there has been an inability for many of those laid off to find employment. Higher interest rates disproportionately impact small business, so any loosening of monetary policy should be helpful to this important employment cohort. As fund managers, we need to be cognisant of the risk of 4.25% unemployment becoming 4.5%, if not higher. This would strain consumer spending, as much of the favourable consumer benefits from the recent fiscal policy will not be noticed until the 2025 tax season in March and April 2026.
Performance
The Company returned -1.2% per share on a Net Asset Value (NAV) total return basis for the half-year ended 31 July 2025. This was outperformance against the Company's reference indices on a total return basis (Russell 1000 Value Index: -4.3%; S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index -3.0%). Stock selection was the primary driver of relative outperformance versus the Russell 1000 Value Index, while currency translation muted returns on an absolute basis given the strength of sterling versus the US Dollar.
At a sector level, our stock selection in the Technology, Consumer Staples and Financial sectors was a contributor to performance in the first half of the year, driven by strong returns in Broadcom, Philip Morris, Amphenol and Citigroup. Elsewhere, while stock selection in Industrials was mixed, both Eaton Corporation and Trane Technologies were two of our strongest performers.
The largest sector detractor from the Company's performance in the first half of the year was the Consumer Discretionary sector, due primarily to stock selection where our positions in Nike and to a lesser extent Home Depot were a headwind. The second-largest detractor was the Communications Services sector, due to our overweight position in Alphabet which derated due to perceived competitive AI based threats, as well as a legal case brought by the Department of Justice challenging their monopolistic position in the online search and search advertising markets.
At a stock-specific level, as noted above, the largest contributions came from power management company Eaton Corporation as well as semiconductor supplier Broadcom. Eaton Corporation saw strong sales and margin performance across multiple segments but primarily from their electrical segment given data centre expansion, while continuing to build their backlog of large project orders. Broadcom continues to see strong demand for its Application-Specific Integrated Circuits ('ASICs') and networking products from hyperscalers in the US as well as having a leadership position in partnering with nearly all major players driving the significant buildout of AI infrastructure.
The long-held position in Philip Morris was also a material contributor as the adoption of smoke free products continues and is trending toward reaching 50% of revenues and profits. Additionally, given the volatility in the global macro-environment, Philip Morris' predictable growth was appreciated by investors who re-rated the shares higher.
In terms of stock detractors, pharmaceutical company Bristol Myers underperformed as they continue to see pressure from legacy drugs that have lost exclusivity and are now competing with low-cost generic competitors. In addition, there was a setback in a Phase III trial for a schizophrenia treatment that could potentially raise doubts about its long-term sales forecast. Another detractor that impacted our performance within the Technology sector was Accenture, with the stock derating given the potential threats to the consulting industry from Artificial Intelligence.
Portfolio activity
Portfolio activity for the first half of the year was somewhat above trend given the tariff led volatility in March and April, followed by a sharp reversal of the market weakness in May and June. Specifically, we took advantage of the period of heightened volatility by adding more growth-oriented names that de-rated whilst trimming back some of the lower beta names that largely stayed in a range as investors sought safe havens. Additions to the portfolio at this time included a few new names such as Trane Technologies, Corteva and Disney. We also increased our weightings in Eaton Corporation and Amphenol. We trimmed some more defensive names such as Johnson & Johnson, Verizon as well as exiting a few names including Sysco and IBM. Subsequently, given the sharp snap back in the market we unwound some of these growth-oriented trades and moved the portfolio back to what we believe is a more balanced position, which is where we ended the quarter and remain at the time of writing. This was positive for performance.
A sector analysis of the portfolio can be found below.
Dividend growth
Dividend growth continues at a strong, sustainable level in the first half with eight names in the portfolio raising their dividend at a double-digit percentage rate and another dozen names raising their dividend five to ten percent. The median growth rate of these dividend increases was just under 7% while the average was nearly 9% (aided by a 33% increase by Goldman Sachs). We expect to see similar growth rates from the balance of the portfolio when they are announced in the second half of the year. Importantly, we ended the previous fiscal year 31 January 2025 with over a year of dividend payments held in revenue reserves.
Outlook
Despite the volatility seen in the first half of the fiscal year, we find ourselves in a balanced position, and importantly do not believe that the current fundamentals and forward outlook of the US is as negative as it may be perceived externally. That said, market valuations remain broadly elevated, so we need to remain selective, diligent and disciplined. It is notable that the average forward multiple of stocks held in the Company's portfolio are approximately 16x - not the 22-23x market headline estimates.
We view the changes in government policy around trade and tariffs as essentially a consumption tax that will be absorbed by some combination of exporters (non-US), importers (US) and the consumer / corporate end user. While not as straightforward as a VAT, there are similarities, and when combining the trade policy framework with the new fiscal policy that allows for expensing of capital expenditures, research and development, and a more generous interest expense deduction, there is an offsetting balance in aggregate that should incrementally increase investment - and likely employment - while reducing consumption. It's surely plausible to think that "uncertainty" has been the biggest headwind for corporates and global trading partners, not the ultimate tariff levels, and if so, the outlook should begin to improve from here.
We should note that the administration has essentially taken a "transactional approach" to tariffs in many regards; specifically, invest in the US and be exempted. Longer-term, there should be a better equilibrium with regard to global trade and this should certainly be considered in investment decisions.
Monetary policy remains in restrictive territory, and one wonders if the Fed would have come to the same conclusion of keeping rates elevated at the end of July if they knew about the employment report released two days after their meeting. While this restrictive position is a current headwind, we note the Fed can be more flexible to loosen policy versus much of the last 15 years when monetary policy was already at the zero-bound level. Following the rate cut in September, both monetary policy and the new fiscal policy will be helping to offset some of the tariff headwinds. In fact, one of the bigger risks today is that monetary and fiscal policy do not arrive fast enough to sterilise tariffs, although if this were to be the case we believe this would be a short-lived headwind.
We remain enthusiastic about the innovation and productivity enhancements driven by major US companies through capital investment and research and development spending. This includes past investments in technology and the current and future adoption of AI. The substantial investments needed to stay competitive tend to favour the largest industry-leading companies. The Company's portfolio comprises businesses across various sectors that possess the scale to make these investments, which should enhance operating leverage and, in turn, foster earnings and dividend growth for years to come. Additionally, deregulation benefits are expected to improve the operating landscape for companies in sectors such as financials and energy.
We believe that the high-quality nature of the Company's portfolio holdings should provide resilience against current external challenges, whether related to tariff implementations or new fiscal policies. From a valuation standpoint, we are comfortable with the average forward price to earnings multiple of approximately 16x for the companies in the portfolio. However, we have reduced positions in certain overextended market areas. Revenue-wise, dividend growth remains consistent with previous periods, thanks to the predictable cash flow and strong balance sheets of the companies in the portfolio. We continue to focus on resilient companies that do not rely on macroeconomic tailwinds for growth and possess the resources to invest in their future.
Fran Radano
Jeremiah Buckley
Co-Fund Managers
23 September 2025
Sector exposure (% of portfolio excluding cash)
at 31 July 2025 %
at 31 July 2024 %
Financials
19.8
20.1
Industrials
13.9
9.7
Health Care
13.5
13.8
Information Technology
11.4
7.2
Consumer Staples
10.3
13.8
Consumer Discretionary
8.3
4.6
Energy
7.3
7.9
Real Estate
6.1
6.9
Utilities
5.9
6.0
Communication Services
3.5
5.0
Basic Materials
-
3.4
Fixed Interest
-
1.6
100.0
100.0
Geographical exposure (% of portfolio excluding cash)
at 31 July 2025 %
at 31 July 2024 %
Canada
5.1
5.9
USA
94.9
94.1
100.0
100.0
Investment Portfolio as at 31 July 2025:
Valuation
Valuation
Company
Industry classification
£'000
%
Chevron
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels
20,631
4.4
Philip Morris
Tobacco
18,619
4.0
Lamar Advertising
Real Estate Investment Trusts
14,771
3.1
PNC Financial Services
Banks
14,373
3.0
Citigroup
Banks
14,164
3.0
CVS Health
Health Care Providers & Services
14,082
3.0
CMS Energy
Multi-Utilities
13,940
3.0
Xcel Energy
Electricity
13,876
2.9
Gaming & Leisure Properties
Specialised REITs
13,774
2.9
Enbridge
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels
13,702
2.9
Ten largest investments
151,932
32.2
Johnson & Johnson
Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
13,696
2.9
Medtronic
Health Care Equipment & Supplies
13,641
2.9
Morgan Stanley
Investment Banking and Brokerage Services
13,456
2.9
RTX
Aerospace and Defence
11,906
2.5
Verizon Communications
Telecommunications Service Providers
11,635
2.5
Broadcom
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment
11,093
2.3
Goldman Sachs
Investment Banking and Brokerage Services
10,939
2.3
Restaurant Brands International
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure
10,253
2.2
U.S. Bancorp
Banks
10,186
2.2
Eaton
General Industrials
10,175
2.2
Twenty largest investments
268,912
57.1
Union Pacific
Road and Rail
10,061
2.1
Home Depot
Retailers
9,725
2.1
American Express
Industrial Support Services
9,043
1.9
Texas Instruments
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment
8,893
1.9
OneMain
Consumer Finance
8,732
1.9
Corteva
Chemicals
8,719
1.8
Dell Technologies
Technology Hardware and Equipment
8,523
1.8
CME Group
Capital Markets
8,411
1.8
Trane Technologies
Construction & Materials
8,276
1.8
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Pharmaceuticals
8,186
1.7
Thirty largest investments
357,481
75.9
Booz Allen Hamilton
Industrial Support Services
8,115
1.7
Accenture
Industrial Support Services
8,073
1.7
Zoetis
Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
7,712
1.7
BNY Mellon
Investment Banking and Brokerage Services
7,667
1.6
Microsoft
Software and Computer Services
7,660
1.6
Coca-Cola
Beverages
7,184
1.5
Lam Research
Technology Hardware and Equipment
7,167
1.5
Marriott International
Travel and Leisure
6,975
1.5
Amgen
Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
6,685
1.4
The Walt Disney Company
Media
6,301
1.4
Forty largest investments
431,020
91.5
AbbVie
Biotechnology
5,709
1.2
Nike
Personal Goods
5,643
1.2
Amphenol
Technology Hardware and Equipment
5,643
1.2
Progressive
Non-life Insurance
5,489
1.2
Comcast
Media
5,024
1.1
Alphabet
Software and Computer Services
4,955
1.0
Abbott Laboratories
Health Care Equipment & Services
4,766
1.0
Danaher
Health Care Equipment & Services
2,981
0.6
Total investments
471,230
100.0
Principal Risks and Uncertainties
The principal risks and uncertainties associated with the Company's business can be divided into the following main areas:
· Market
· Investment performance
· Major market event or geopolitical risk
· Income and dividend risk
· Gearing
· Discount volatility
· Derivatives
· Operational
· Regulatory and reporting
Information on these risks and how they are managed is given in the Annual Report for the year ended 31 January 2025. In the view of the Board, these principal risks and uncertainties continue to apply and are as applicable to the remaining six months of the financial year as they were to the six months under review.
Statement of Directors' Responsibilities
The Directors (as listed in note 15) confirm that, to the best of their knowledge:
(a) the unaudited condensed set of financial statements for the half-year to 31 July 2025 has been prepared in accordance with "FRS 104 Interim Financial Reporting" and gives a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company;
(b) the interim management report and condensed financial statements include a fair review of the information required by Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 4.2.7R (indication of important events during the first six months and description of principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the year); and
(c) the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 4.2.8R (disclosure of related party transactions that have taken place in the first six months of the current financial year and that have materially affected the financial position or the performance of the Company during the period; and any changes in related party transactions described in the latest annual report that could have an impact in the first six months of the current financial year).
On behalf of the Board
Charles Park
Chairman
23 September 2025
CONDENSED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Half-year ended 31 July 2025 (unaudited)
Half-year ended 31 July 2024 (unaudited)
Year ended 31 January 2025 (audited)
Revenue return £'000
Capital return £'000
Total return £'000
Revenue return £'000
Capital return £'000
Total return £'000
Revenue return £'000
Capital return £'000
Total return £'000
Net (losses)/gains on investments
-
(15,173)
(15,173)
-
37,274
37,274
-
77,132
77,132
Net currency gains/(losses)
-
1,796
1,796
-
439
439
-
(868)
(868)
Income
9,493
-
9,493
10,468
207
10,675
21,193
262
21,455
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
---------
---------
---------
Gross revenue and capital (losses)/gains
9,493
(13,377)
(3,884)
10,468
37,920
48,388
21,193
76,526
97,719
Expenses
Management fees
(349)
(813)
(1,162)
(455)
(1,063)
(1,518)
(833)
(1,943)
(2,776)
Other operating expenses
(456)
-
(456)
(445)
-
(445)
(795)
-
(795)
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
----------
----------
---------
Return before finance costs and taxation
8,688
(14,190)
(5,502)
9,568
36,857
46,425
19,565
74,583
94,148
Finance costs
(156)
(363)
(519)
(168)
(393)
(561)
(343)
(800)
(1,143)
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
----------
----------
----------
Return before taxation
8,532
(14,553)
(6,021)
9,400
36,464
45,864
19,222
73,783
93,005
Taxation
(1,285)
293
(992)
(1,332)
333
(999)
(2,907)
646
(2,261)
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
------------
----------
----------
----------
Return after taxation
7,247
(14,260)
(7,013)
8,068
36,797
44,865
16,315
74,429
90,744
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Return per ordinary share - basic and diluted (note 2)
5.97p
(11.74p)
(5.77p)
5.98p
27.30p
33.28p
12.44p
56.76p
69.20p
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=======
The total columns of this statement represent the Income Statement of the Company, prepared in accordance with FRS 104. The revenue and capital columns are supplementary to this and are published under guidance from the Association of Investment Companies.
The Company has no recognised gains or losses other than those disclosed in the Income Statement and Statement of Changes in Equity.
All items in the above statement derive from continuing operations. No operations were acquired or discontinued during the period.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed financial statements.
CONDENSED Statement of Changes in Equity
Half-year ended 31 July 2025 (unaudited)
Called up share capital £'000
Share premium account £'000
Capital redemption reserve £'000
Capital reserve £'000
Revenue reserve £'000
Total £'000
Balance at 1 February 2025
6,346
51,806
16,270
370,758
22,655
467,835
Buy-back of ordinary shares for treasury (note 3)
-
-
-
(14,485)
-
(14,485)
Return after taxation
-
-
-
(14,260)
7,247
(7,013)
Ordinary dividends paid
-
-
-
-
(8,359)
(8,359)
----------
----------
----------
----------
----------
-----------
Balance at 31 July 2025
6,346
51,806
16,270
342,013
21,543
437,978
======
======
======
======
======
======
Half-year ended 31 July 2024 (unaudited)
Called up share capital £'000
Share premium account £'000
Capital redemption reserve £'000
Capital reserve £'000
Revenue reserve £'000
Total £'000
Balance at 1 February 2024
6,868
51,806
15,748
340,003
22,054
436,479
Buy-back of ordinary shares for cancellation (note 3)
(294)
-
294
(17,297)
-
(17,297)
Return after taxation
-
-
-
36,797
8,068
44,865
Ordinary dividends paid
-
-
-
-
(8,873)
(8,873)
----------
----------
----------
----------
----------
-----------
Balance at 31 July 2024
6,574
51,806
16,042
359,503
21,249
455,174
======
======
======
======
======
======
Year ended 31 January 2025 (audited)
Called up share capital £'000
Share premium account £'000
Capital redemption reserve £'000
Other capital reserves £'000
Revenue reserve £'000
Total £'000
Balance at 1 February 2024
6,868
51,806
15,748
340,003
22,054
436,479
Buy-back of ordinary shares for cancellation (note 3)
(522)
-
522
(31,701)
-
(31,701)
Buy-back of ordinary shares for treasury (note 3)
-
-
-
(11,973)
-
(11,973)
Return after taxation
-
-
-
74,429
16,315
90,744
Ordinary dividends paid
-
-
-
-
(15,714)
(15,714)
---------
----------
----------
-----------
----------
----------
Balance at 31 January 2025
6,346
51,806
16,270
370,758
22,655
467,835
======
======
======
======
======
======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
CONDENSED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
At 31 July 2025 (unaudited) £'000
At 31 July 2024 (unaudited) £'000
At 31 January 2025 (audited) £'000
Non-current assets
Investments held at fair value through profit or loss
471,230
486,950
504,594
--------------
--------------
--------------
Current assets
Debtors and prepayments
1,120
1,040
3,871
Cash and short-term deposits
7,367
6,694
5,264
--------------
--------------
--------------
8,487
7,734
9,135
--------------
--------------
--------------
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Traded options
(551)
-
(96)
Other creditors
(3,456)
(643)
(5,614)
--------------
--------------
--------------
(4,007)
(643)
(5,710)
--------------
--------------
--------------
Net current assets
4,480
7,091
3,425
========
========
========
Total assets less current liabilities
475,710
494,041
508,019
--------------
--------------
--------------
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
Senior Loan Notes
(37,732)
(38,867)
(40,184)
--------------
--------------
--------------
Net assets
437,978
455,174
467,835
========
========
========
Capital and reserves
Called-up share capital (note 3)
6,346
6,574
6,346
Share premium account
51,806
51,806
51,806
Capital redemption reserve
16,270
16,042
16,270
Capital reserve
342,013
359,503
370,758
Revenue reserve
21,543
21,249
22,655
--------------
--------------
--------------
Total equity
437,978
455,174
467,835
========
========
========
Net asset value per ordinary share - basic and diluted (note 4)
367.88p
346.21p
379.24p
========
========
========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
CONDENSED Cash Flow Statement
Half-year ended 31 July 2025 (unaudited) £'000
Half-year ended 31 July 2024 (unaudited) £'000
Year ended 31 January 2025 (audited) £'000
Operating activities
Net return before taxation
(6,021)
45,864
93,005
Adjustments for:
Net losses/(gains) on investments
15,392
(37,309)
(77,146)
Net (losses)/gains on foreign exchange transactions
(1,796)
(439)
868
Decrease/(increase) in dividend income receivable
60
18
(52)
Decrease in interest income receivable
1
16
2
Increase/(decrease) in derivatives
455
(162)
(66)
(Increase)/decrease in other debtors
(239)
(153)
32
Increase/(decrease) in other creditors
73
(574)
163
Tax on overseas income
(1,054)
(896)
(2,261)
Accretion of fixed income book cost
-
(43)
(44)
Amortisation of senior loan note expenses
3
4
8
------------
------------
------------
Net cash flow from operating activities
6,874
6,326
14,509
------------
------------
------------
Investing activities
Purchases of investments
(122,796)
(61,163)
(446,018)
Sales of investments
139,352
66,312
474,976
------------
------------
-----------
Net cash flow from investing activities
16,556
5,149
28,958
------------
------------
------------
Financing activities
Equity dividends paid
(8,359)
(8,873)
(15,714)
Buyback of ordinary shares for cancellation
-
(17,297)
(31,911)
Buyback of Ordinary shares for treasury
(12,307)
-
(11,973)
------------
------------
------------
Net cash used in financing activities
(20,666)
(26,170)
(59,598)
------------
------------
------------
Increase/(decrease) in cash
2,764
(14,695)
(16,131)
------------
------------
------------
Analysis of changes in cash during the period
Opening balance
5,264
21,285
21,285
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held
(661)
104
110
Increase/(decrease) in cash as above
2,764
(14,695)
(16,131)
------------
------------
------------
Closing balance
7,367
6,694
5,264
=======
=======
=======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
Notes to the condensed financial statements
1. Accounting policies
a) Basis of preparation
The condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 104 (Interim Financial Reporting) and with the Statement of Recommended Practice for 'Financial Statements of Investment Trust Companies and Venture Capital Trusts'. They have also been prepared on a going concern basis and on the assumption that approval as an investment trust will continue to be granted. Annual financial statements are prepared under Financial Reporting Standard 102.
The condensed interim financial statements have been prepared using the same accounting policies as the preceding annual financial statements.
2. Return per ordinary share
The return per ordinary share is based on the loss for the half-year of £7,013,000 (half-year ended 31 July 2024: profit of £44,865,000; year ended 31 January 2025: profit of £90,744,000) and on 121,456,228 ordinary shares (half-year ended 31 July 2024: 134,828,246 and year ended 31 January 2025: 131,124,251), being the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period.
The return per ordinary share detailed above can be further analysed between revenue and capital, as below.
Half-year ended 31 July 2025 (unaudited) £'000
Half-year ended 31 July 2024 (unaudited) £'000
Year ended 31 January 2025 (audited) £'000
Revenue return
7,247
8,068
16,315
Capital return
(14,260)
36,797
74,429
----------
----------
---------
Total return
(7,013)
44,865
90,744
======
======
======
Half-year ended 31 July 2025 (unaudited) Pence
Half-year ended 31 July 2024 (unaudited) pence
Year ended 31 January 2025 (audited) pence
Revenue return per ordinary share
5.97
5.98
12.44
Capital return per ordinary share
(11.74)
27.30
56.76
----------
----------
---------
Total return per ordinary share
(5.77)
33.28
69.20
======
======
======
3. Share capital At 31 July 2025 there were 126,923,569 ordinary shares in issue (31 July 2024: 131,472,857; 31 January 2025: 126,923,569) of which 7,868,681 were held in treasury (31 July 2024: none; 31 January 2025: 3,561,882), resulting in 119,054,888 shares entitled to a dividend (31 July 2024: 131,472,857; 31 January 2025: 123,361,687). During the half-year ended 31 July 2025, the Company repurchased 4,306,799 ordinary shares which were placed in treasury, at a total cost of £14,485,000 (31 July 2024: 5,879,490 shares cancelled, 31 January 2025: 10,428,778 cancelled and 3,561,882 were placed into treasury). No ordinary shares were issued (31 July 2024 and 31 January 2025: same). Since 31 July 2025, the Company has bought back an additional 3,194,593 shares. 11,063,274 are currently held in treasury. 4. Net asset value per ordinary share The net asset value per ordinary share is based on the net assets attributable to equity shareholders of £437,978,000 (31 July 2024: £455,174,000; 31 January 2025: £467,835,000) and on 119,054,888 ordinary shares (31 July 2024: 131,472,857; 31 January 2025: 123,361,687), being the number of ordinary shares in issue at the period end, excluding treasury shares. The number of ordinary shares in issue at 31 July 2025 includes 636,244 ordinary shares bought back prior to the year end which had not yet settled. 5. Dividends The Company has declared an interim dividend of 2.8p per ordinary share (31 July 2024: 2.7p) payable on 31 October 2025 to members on the register as at 3 October 2025. The shares will trade ex-dividend on 2 October 2025. A fourth interim dividend of 4.1p per ordinary share was paid on 7 May 2025 from the Company's revenue account in respect of the year ended 31 January 2025. A first interim dividend of 2.8p per ordinary share was paid on 31 July 2025 from the Company's revenue account in respect of the year ending 31 January 2026. 6. Transaction costs Purchase transaction costs for the half-year ended 31 July 2025 were £20,000 (half-year ended 31 July 2024: £35,000; year ended 31 January 2025: £85,000). These comprise mainly stamp duty and commission. Sales transaction costs for the half-year ended 31 July 2025 were £9,000 (half-year ended 31 July 2024: £39,000; year ended 31 January 2025: £95,000). 7. Management fee Under the terms of an agreement effective from 1 August 2024 the Company has appointed wholly owned subsidiaries of Janus Henderson Investors to provide investment management, accounting, administrative and company secretarial services. Janus Henderson Investors has contracted with BNP Paribas S.A. to provide accounting and administration services. Janus Henderson Investors receives an annual management fee of 0.55% of the Company's net asset value up to £500 million and 0.45% on net assets above £500 million, payable quarterly. Until 31 July 2024 the Company had an agreement with abrdn Fund Managers Limited ("aFML") for the provision of investment management, secretarial, accounting and administration and promotional activity services. The annual management fee was charged on gross assets after deducting current liabilities and borrowings and excluding commonly managed funds (net assets), on a tiered basis at 0.75% of net assets up to £250 million, 0.6% between £250 million and £500 million, and 0.5% over £500 million, payable quarterly. The fee is allocated 30% to revenue and 70% to capital. During the period £374,000 (31 July 2024: £nil) of management fees were payable to Janus Henderson, with a balance of £788,000 (31 July 2024: £nil) being due to Janus Henderson at the period end. During the period £nil (31 July 2024: £1,518,000) of investment management fees were payable to aFML, with a balance of £nil (31 July 2024: £263,000) being due to aFML at the period end. 8. Financial instruments At the period end the carrying value of financial assets and financial liabilities approximates their fair value. Fair value hierarchy The table below analyses recurring fair value measurements for financial assets and financial liabilities. These fair value measurements are categorised into different levels in the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs to valuation techniques used. Categorisation within the hierarchy has been determined on the basis of the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the relevant asset or liability. The different levels are defined as follows: Level 1: valued using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets; Level 2: valued by reference to valuation techniques using observable inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1; and Level 3: valued by reference to valuation techniques that are not based on observable market data.
Financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
through profit or loss at 31 July 2025
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Investments at fair value through profit or loss
Quoted equities
471,230
-
-
471,230
------------
------------
------------
------------
Total financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value
471,230
-
-
471,230
=======
=======
=======
=======
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss Derivatives
-
(551)
-
(551)
------------
------------
------------
------------
Net fair value
471,230
(551)
-
470,679
=======
======
======
=======
Financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
through profit or loss at 31 July 2024
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Investments at fair value through profit or loss
Quoted equities
479,116
-
-
479,116
Quoted bonds
-
7,834
-
7,834
------------
----------
-----------
------------
Total financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value
479,116
7,834
-
486,950
=======
=======
=======
=======
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
Derivatives
-
-
-
-
------------
------------
------------
------------
Net fair value
479,116
7,834
-
486,950
=======
======
======
=======
Financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Through profit or loss at 31 January 2025
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Investments at fair value through profit or loss
Quoted equities
504,594
-
-
504,594
------------
------------
------------
------------
Total financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value
504,594
-
-
504,594
=======
======
======
=======
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss Derivatives
-
(96)
-
(96)
------------
------------
------------
------------
Net fair value
504,594
(96)
-
504,498
=======
======
======
=======
There were no transfers between levels of fair value hierarchy during the period. Transfers between levels of fair value hierarchy are deemed to have occurred at the date of the event or through a change in circumstances that caused the transfer.
The fair value of the senior unsecured loan notes at 31 July 2025 has been estimated to be £34,641,000 (31 July 2024: £35,749,000; 31 January 2025: £36,188,000). The fair value of the senior unsecured loan notes is calculated using a discount rate which reflects the yield on a US Treasury Bond of similar maturity. The senior unsecured loan notes are categorised as level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
9. Going concern The assets of the Company consist mainly of securities, most of which are readily realisable and, accordingly, the Company has adequate financial resources to continue in operational existence for at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements. The Directors have also considered the impact of geopolitical developments and believe that there will be a limited resulting financial impact on the Company's portfolio, its operational resources and existence. Having assessed these factors and the principal risks, the Directors have determined that it is appropriate for the financial statements to be prepared on a going concern basis. 10. Related party transactions The Company's transactions with related parties in the period were with the directors and the investment manager. There were no material transactions between the Company and its directors during the period and the only amounts paid to the directors were in respect of expenses and remuneration for which there were no outstanding amounts payable at the period end. In relation to the provision of services by the investment manager, other than fees payable by the Company in the ordinary course of business and the facilitation of marketing activities with third parties, there were no material transactions with the investment manager affecting the financial position of the Company during the period under review. 11. Comparative information The financial information contained in this half-year report does not constitute statutory accounts as defined in section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. The financial information for the half-years ended 31 July 2025 and 31 July 2024 has not been audited or reviewed by the Company's auditors. The figures and financial information for the year ended 31 January 2025 are an extract based on the latest published accounts and do not constitute statutory accounts for that year. Those accounts have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies and include the Independent Auditor's Report which was unqualified and did not contain a statement under either section 498(2) or 498(3) of the Companies Act 2006. 12. Website Details of the Company's share price and net asset value, together with general information about the Company, monthly factsheets and data, copies of announcements, reports and details of general meetings can be found at www.janushenderson.com/NAIT. 13. Half-year report The Company's half-year report is available on the Company's website. An update extracted from the Company's report for the half-year ended 31 July 2025 will be posted to shareholders in October 2025 and is available on the website. 14. Company status The North American Income Trust plc is registered in Scotland, No. SC005218, has its registered office at 4 North St. Andrew Street, Edinburgh EH2 1HJ. The Company is listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange. SEDOL/ISIN: BJ00Z30/GB00BJ00Z303 London Stock Exchange (TIDM) code: NAIT Global Intermediary Identification Number (GIIN): XYAARK.99999.SL.826 Legal Entity Identifier (LEI): 5493007GCUW7G2BKY360 15. Directors and Secretary At the date of this report, the directors of the Company are Charles Park (Chairman), Karyn Lamont (Chair of the Audit Committee), Patrick Edwardson (Senior Independent Director), Bulbul Barrett and Susannah Nicklin. As previously announced, John Adebiyi joins the Board on 1 October 2025. The Corporate Secretary is Janus Henderson Secretarial Services UK Limited (telephone: 020 7818 1818 and email itsecretariat@janushenderson.com).
For further information please contact:
Fran Radano, Fund Manager The North American Income Trust plc Telephone: +13033367935
Jeremiah Buckley, Fund Manager The North American Income Trust plc Telephone: +13033367872
Neither the contents of the Company's website nor the contents of any website accessible from hyperlinks on the Company's website (or any other website) are incorporated into, or form part of, this announcement.
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