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REG - Schroder UK Mid - Final Results

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RNS Number : 1804J  Schroder UK Mid Cap Fund PLC  27 November 2025

Thursday, 27 November 2025

 

SCHRODER UK MID CAP FUND PLC

(the "Company")

 

ANNUAL FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025

 

Schroder UK Mid Cap Fund plc announces its financial results for the year
ended 30 September 2025.

 

·      The Company's net asset value ("NAV") per share total return for
the year to 30 September 2025 was 10.8%, ahead of the FTSE 250 ex Investment
Trusts Total Return Index at 6.7%.

·      Share price total return was 18.0%, reflecting a steady narrowing
of the discount to NAV, driven by strong performance and strategic initiatives
announced by the Board in March 2025.

·      The strategic initiatives implemented during the year - including
a management fee reduction, a continuation vote, and a buyback policy - are
all designed to further strengthen the Company's investment proposition and
deliver value for all shareholders.

·      The Company has outperformed its Benchmark over 1, 3, and 10
years, in both NAV and share price terms.

·      Outperformance over the year was driven by the portfolio's
exposure to industrials and an increased overweight position in aerospace and
defence.

Investor Presentation

The Company's Investment Manager is hosting an annual results presentation for
investors on Tuesday, 13 January 2026 at 9.00 am. Investors can register for
the event at: https://www.schroders.events/SCPFY25
(https://www.schroders.events/SCPFY25) .

 

 

Harry Morley, Chair of Schroder UK Mid Cap Fund plc commented: "These
excellent results underscore the enduring strengths of the UK mid cap market
and the benefits of a disciplined, high-conviction strategy led by experienced
managers with a strong track record in stock selection."

 

The Company's Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 30
September 2025 are also being published in hard copy format and an electronic
copy will shortly be available to download from the Company's website
www.schroders.com/ukmidcap (//www.schroders.com/ukmidcap) .

 

Enquiries:

 

 Phoebe Merrell / Katherine Fyfe          020 7658 6000

 Schroder Investment Management Limited
 Charlotte Banks / Kirsty Preston         020 7658 6000

 Schroder Investment Management Limited

 

 

Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 30 September 2025

 

Chair's Statement

This is my first Annual Report as Chair of the Company, having succeeded
Robert Talbut following the Company's Annual General Meeting ("AGM") on 24
February 2025. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Robert for his
valuable contribution to the Company during his nine-year tenure. I would also
like to welcome Richard Curling, who joined the Board as an independent
non-executive Director immediately following the AGM.

INVESTMENT AND SHARE PRICE PERFORMANCE
I am delighted that during the year to 30 September 2025 our Investment
Manager has delivered a NAV total return of 10.8%, outperforming the Benchmark
(FTSE 250 ex Investment Trust Index) by 4.1%, which itself was up by 6.7%. The
share price also rose by 18.0%, reflecting a narrowing of the discount to NAV
and a positive response to the strategic initiatives announced by the Board in
March, which are covered in more detail below. The Company has therefore
outperformed its Benchmark over the last one, three, and ten years, both in
terms of NAV and share price.

These excellent results underscore the enduring strengths of the UK mid cap
market and the benefits of a disciplined, high-conviction strategy led by
experienced managers with a strong track record in stock selection. Your
Investment Manager's strategy continues to focus on long-term growth
companies. The Board remains confident that our emphasis on resilient, cash
generative businesses, positions the portfolio well for long-term shareholder
value creation.

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
In March, your Board announced a number of strategic initiatives designed to
further strengthen the Company's investment proposition and deliver value for
all of the Company's shareholders.

Management fee reduction
The Board agreed a management fee reduction with Schroder Unit Trusts Limited.
The previous management fees were (1) 0.65% per annum on net assets plus short
term borrowings, less cash up to £250 million and; (2) 0.60% per annum of any
such amount in excess of £250 million. With effect from 1 April 2025, the
reduced management fee has been calculated based on the lower of (1) 0.60% per
annum of market capitalisation; or (2) the net asset value-based fee
arrangement.

Continuation vote
The Board introduced a continuation vote to be proposed at the 2028 AGM, and,
if passed, every three years thereafter to ensure that the Company remains
relevant to its shareholders and in-line with best corporate governance
practice. The continuation vote will be proposed as an ordinary resolution
requiring a simple majority of those voting to be passed.

Buyback policy
The Board has used its authority to buy back shares more actively to inhibit a
wide discount to NAV from developing in the Company's shares in the future.
The Company's authority to repurchase up to 14.99% of its issued share capital
(being 5,183,720 ordinary shares) was refreshed at the AGM held on 24 February
2025. The Board will continue to monitor the discount closely and will take
appropriate action as required.

DIVIDENDS
In June 2025, the Board announced an increased interim dividend of 6.3 pence
per share, representing a 5% increase on the prior year's interim dividend. We
have declared a final dividend of 16.1 pence per share for the year ended 30
September 2025.

Together, the proposed final dividend and the interim dividend already paid
bring total dividends for the year to 22.4 pence per share. This amount is
covered by current year earnings and represents a 4.2% increase on the
previous year. Based on a share price of 666 pence as at 25 November 2025,
this equates to a yield of 3.4%. While it is not an objective of the Company
for its dividends to grow in excess of the Consumer Price Index, the Board
notes that this has been the case over the last one, three, five, and ten
years.

A resolution to approve the payment of the final dividend will be proposed at
the forthcoming AGM. Subject to shareholder approval, the dividend will be
paid on 27 February 2026 to shareholders on the register as at 30 January
2026.

GEARING
At year end, net gearing stood at 4.8% (2024: 9.5%), with £17 million drawn
from the Company's Revolving Credit Facility. The ability to deploy gearing is
a distinctive advantage of the investment trust structure. The Board expects
the Investment Manager to continue using gearing proactively to enhance
long-term returns and to capitalise on new investment opportunities as they
arise.

DISCOUNT MANAGEMENT
The discount to NAV moved from 12.3% at the previous year end to 7.0% this
year end. During the year the Board exercised its buy-back authority to
acquire 269,000 shares into treasury. Since the year end a further 406,500
shares have been bought back. The Board believes that a variety of reasons
have contributed to this reduction in the discount, including the positive
trading performance and the strategic initiatives announced earlier this year.
The Board remains vigilant in monitoring the discount and will continue to
utilise share buy-backs to inhibit a wide discount to NAV from developing.

MARKETING INITIATIVES
The Company continues to broaden its reach and deepen engagement with existing
and prospective investors, across both retail and professional audiences. This
includes media engagement, helping to raise awareness of the Company's
strategy, and positioning. In addition, a diverse range of content - including
podcasts, video interviews, live events, and written articles - have been
delivered across key digital platforms such as Boring Money, AssetTV, This is
Money (Daily Mail), and Kepler Trust Intelligence. These initiatives aim to
deepen investor understanding and provide valuable insights into the Company's
investment universe. Another ongoing initiative in this regard is the Mid-250
podcast, hosted by Jean Roche, your Investment Manager. Now in its third year,
the podcast has featured CEOs from across the FTSE 250 and showcases the
diversity and performance of the UK mid cap market. Investors can listen to
the podcast here: https://www.schroders.com/en-gb/uk/individual/
(https://www.schroders.com/en-gb/uk/individual/insights/mid-250-podcast/)
insights/mid-250-podcast/
(https://www.schroders.com/en-gb/uk/individual/insights/mid-250-podcast/) .

BOARD CHANGES AND SUCCESSION
During the year, we were pleased to welcome Richard Curling to the Board as a
non-executive Director and Chair of the Remuneration Committee. Richard's
wealth of experience and insight will be of great value to the Board and our
shareholders.

AGM
Your Company's next AGM will be held at 12.00pm on Wednesday, 25 February 2026
at 1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU.

Your Board hopes that as many shareholders as possible will attend the AGM. It
provides a great opportunity for shareholders to meet your Investment Manager,
Jean Roche, and the Company's Directors, and for us to meet you and to hear
your views. We very much hope to see you at 1 London Wall Place on 25 February
2026. Everyone who is there will have the opportunity to hear a presentation
from Jean Roche and then to ask her questions, and light refreshments will be
served. All voting will be conducted by poll. Shareholders are encouraged to
register their vote with your Company's registrar, either online or via paper
proxy forms, and to appoint the Chair of the meeting as their proxy. Even if
you are unable to attend the AGM in person, you are still able to have your
say by submitting your vote in advance. Further details on voting procedures
can be found in the Notice of Meeting on page 79 of the Annual Report and
Financial Statements. Any questions for your Board may be submitted by email
to amcompanysecretary@schroders.com (mailto:amcompanysecretary@schroders.com)
prior to the AGM.

RESULTS WEBINAR
Shareholders are invited to join your Investment Manager, Jean Roche, for a
webinar reporting on the year ended 30 September 2025 and to discuss the
outlook for your Company's portfolio. The presentation will be followed by a
live Q&A session.

The webinar will take place at 9.00 am on Tuesday, 13 January 2026.
Registration is available at https://www.schroders.events/SCPFY25
(https://www.schroders.events/SCPFY25) .

SHAREHOLDER COMMUNICATION AND ENGAGEMENT

The Board is committed to exercising the highest standard of corporate
governance and accordingly, regularly considers the views of its shareholders,
offering to meet with major shareholders annually. We also seek to engage with
all shareholders where possible and should you wish to contact me, you can do
so via the Company Secretary whose details are set out on page 86 of the
Annual Report and Financial Statements. For ongoing updates about your
Company, shareholders are invited to sign up to the Manager's investment
trusts update, available at https://schro.link/scp_subscriber
(https://schro.link/scp_subscriber) . (https://schro.link/scp_subscriber)

OUTLOOK
Looking ahead, the Board remains confident in the long-term opportunity
presented by UK mid caps. This part of the market continues to offer a
compelling blend of structural growth potential, corporate resilience and
valuation support. The broader environment remains complex with the global
economy facing geopolitical tensions and the ever-present threat of tariffs.
At the time of writing this report, the Chancellor has just announced the
Autumn Budget. The Board remains confident in the long-term prospects for the
UK market and invites shareholders to read more about the market outlook in
the Investment Manager's Review. However, the Board believes that the
portfolio is well-positioned to navigate these challenges. The Investment
Manager's selective, research-driven approach and proven stock selection
capabilities should help the Company to continue to deliver attractive returns
for shareholders over time.

 

Harry Morley

Chair

26 November 2025

 

Investment Manager's Review

The Company's return for the 12 months to 30 September 2025 was 10.8%,
compared to 6.7% from the FTSE 250 ex Investment Trusts Total Return Index.
The share price total return was 18.0%, reflecting a steady narrowing of the
discount to NAV, driven by both performance and strategic initiatives
announced by the Board in March 2025.

MARKET BACKGROUND
UK equities rose over the period, despite bouts of volatility linked to rising
geopolitical risks and renewed trade tensions. As outlined in our interim
report, the first half saw UK mid cap equities deliver a negative return and
underperform their larger counterparts. The second half opened with a sharp
and globally co-ordinated sell-off, as fears of a trade-related recession took
hold following President Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariff announcements.
Markets subsequently recovered strongly as these concerns subsided, with many
regional equity indices ending the period at or near to all-time highs, the UK
included.

Large caps outperformed mid caps over the period, although the difference
narrowed in the second half. Over the twelve months, the FTSE 100 delivered a
total return of 17.5%, more than double the 6.7% return from the FTSE 250
(source: Morningstar on a total return basis in UK sterling). This came
despite reported earnings growth from larger, international-facing companies
being held back in sterling terms by a weaker dollar. The result has been a
widening valuation gap between large and mid caps. For example, mid caps now
yield roughly 1.0% more than large caps - this is very unusual and highlights
the relative value available further down the market spectrum. It's
interesting to note, also, that mid cap dividends grew at a faster pace than
large cap dividends during calendar Q3 (July-September 2025), a trend that we
have not seen for some time.

The UK economy posted modest growth over the period, a performance that
compared favourably with most of its developed market peers. Hopes of further
interest rate cuts diminished as the year progressed, which may help to
explain the more subdued performance of mid and small caps. Nevertheless,
there are growing signs that global investors are waking up to the opportunity
that exists in UK equities. While large caps have benefited most so far,
closing some of the valuation gap between UK and international peers, UK mid
and small caps potentially stand to gain more over time, given their, still
marked, relative valuation appeal.

PORTFOLIO PERFORMANCE
The portfolio posted a positive return during the period under review,
outperforming its Benchmark Index by 4.1%, with both stock selection and
sector allocation contributing positively.

The portfolio's exposure to industrials was the standout contributor to
performance. Our increased overweight to aerospace and defence proved
particularly beneficial. We view this sector as providing exposure to advanced
technology and innovation, but with less valuation risk than many technology
sub-sectors. It is also an area in which the UK continues to punch above its
weight. Until relatively recently, few investors shared this view, but the
sector has become increasingly favoured over the past 18 months amid
heightened geopolitical tensions and a growing recognition that European
nations must raise defence spending and reduce reliance on the US. The
sector's attractions also include excellent earnings visibility, supported by
long-term contracts and deep relationships with its government customers.

In terms of stock specifics, all three of our positions in the sector
performed well. Chemring was the portfolio's strongest contributor, with a
strengthening order book underpinning continued earnings momentum. In recent
years, steady operational delivery has helped shift perceptions of the company
from a cyclical munitions supplier to a technology-focused defence business
with durable growth prospects. That progress attracted private equity interest
during the period, contributing to a further re-rating of the shares.

Meanwhile, Babcock International also performed well. A period of contractual
issues and rising debt concerns saw the company drop into the FTSE 250 in
2021. Since then, it has been reshaped under new management, resulting in a
stronger balance sheet, improved margins and a growing order book. Alongside
improving sector sentiment, this continued progress helped drive a higher
share price during the period. Elsewhere, defence services and technology
business QinetiQ also contributed positively.

Following this period of outperformance from aerospace and defence, we have
maintained an overweight exposure to the sector, albeit at a more modest
level. Babcock's continued recovery has led to its re-entry into the FTSE 100
index, so that position was sold towards the end of the period, in line with
our philosophy.

Merger and acquisition ("M&A") activity continued in the year, with the
portfolio particularly benefiting from two agreed bids. Spectris, a provider
of precision measurement instruments and software, was the subject of a
two-way bidding war between private equity groups before agreeing to KKR's
offer, which valued it at close to a 100% premium to its share price prior to
the first bid. Meanwhile, Just Group, the UK retirement-income specialist,
agreed to a takeover by Canadian investment giant, Brookfield Wealth
Solutions, at a premium of 75% to its undisturbed share price.

By contrast, our holding in 4imprint detracted from performance during the
year. The direct marketing and promotional products group, which has been a
long-term winner for the portfolio, faced a tougher backdrop as uncertainty
around the US economy, tariff policy and currency movements weighed on
sentiment. While these factors led to some moderation in earnings growth
forecasts, much of the share price decline reflected a meaningful de-rating.
With a strong balance sheet and a consistent record of delivery, the company
remains well placed for long-term growth. We have therefore maintained the
position.

Trustpilot, the online reviews platform connecting consumers with businesses,
also detracted from performance. After a very strong 2024, the shares have
come under pressure this year despite solid underlying trading, with good
customer retention, improving margins and progress in developing relationships
with large "enterprise" companies and new revenue streams. The company remains
cash-positive and continues to repurchase shares, and we have maintained the
holding in the portfolio.

Stocks held - significant positive and negative contributions versus the
benchmark

 Positive contributor   Portfolio  Weight     Relative        Impact(3

weight(1
relative
performance(2  ) (%)
                        ) (%)
to index  ) (%)

(%)
 Chemring Group         3.1         +2.5       +56.6          +1.6
 Spectris               3.2        +1.8       +49.1           +1.4
 Babcock International  1.8        +1.2       +45.6           +1.3
 Just Group             3.4        +2.7       +48.1           +1.3
 Games Workshop         2.3        +1.8       +15.1           +1.0
                        =========  =========  =========       =========

 

 Negative contributor  Portfolio   Weight     Relative         Impact(3)

weight(1)
relative
performance(2)
(%)

(%)
to index
(%)

(%)
 4Imprint Group        2.2         +1.7       -33.9            -0.7
 Trustpilot Group      0.9         +0.5       -6.5             -0.5
 Ibstock Group         0.8         +0.5       -30.0            -0.5
 Future                0.9         +0.5       -41.7            -0.5
 Johnson Matthey       0.8         -0.5       +32.0            -0.5
                       =========   =========  =========        =========

Source: Schroders, Aladdin, close 30 September 2024 to close 30 September
2025.

1    Weights are averages.

2    Performance of the stock in the index relative to the FTSE 250 (ex.
ITs) Index return.

3    Impact is the contribution to performance relative to the FTSE 250
(ex. ITs) Index.

In terms of stocks not held in the portfolio, the two UK-listed but
Georgian-based banks, Lion Finance (formerly Bank of Georgia) and TBC Bank,
detracted from performance. Both businesses have seen significant share price
appreciation in recent months, which has been challenging in a relative sense.
However, we prefer to gain our financials exposure through other companies
with less geopolitical risk exposure.

Elsewhere in the sector, not owning the insurance group Direct Line, which was
another bid target during the period, detracted from performance. This was
also the case for mono brand luxury goods company Burberry, whose shares
benefited from the market's enthusiasm for the new management team's
turnaround strategy.

These negatives were largely offset by not owning consumer-facing companies
such as Greggs, Ocado and B&M European Value. We have been highly
selective in our consumer exposure, preferring businesses such as Currys and
Dunelm, where we prefer the sub sector exposures (electricals and homewares,
which are highly fragmented) and the associated customer demographics.

Stocks not held - significant positive and negative contributions versus the
benchmark

 Positive contributor    Portfolio   Weight     Relative         Impact(3

weight(1)
relative
performance(2)  ) (%)

(%)
to index
(%)

(%)
 Greggs                  -           -1.0       -53.3            +0.8
 RS Group                -           -1.4       -33.9            +0.6
 Ocado Group             -           -0.9       -48.2            +0.5
 B&M European Value      -           -1.0       -28.3            +0.5
 Tate & Lyle             -           -1.1       -38.6            +0.5
                         =========   =========  =========        =========

 

 Negative contributor  Portfolio   Weight     Relative         Impact(3)

weight(1)
relative
performance(2)
(%)

(%)
to index
(%)

(%)
 Burberry              -           -1.7       +54.7            -0.7
 Direct Line           -           -1.2       +59.1            -0.7
 Lion Finance Group    -           -1.0       +110.1           -0.7
 Balfour Beatty        -           -1.2       +47.5            -0.5
 Carnival              -           -1.2       +56.7            -0.5
                       =========   =========  =========        =========

Source: Schroders, Aladdin, close 30 September 2024 to close 30 September
2025.

1    Weights are averages.

2    Performance of the stock in the index relative to the FTSE 250 (ex.
ITs) Index return.

3    Impact is the contribution to performance relative to the FTSE 250
(ex. ITs) Index.

Portfolio activity
In terms of portfolio activity, several new positions were added during the
year under review. Among these were the industrial businesses Hill &
Smith, a manufacturer of infrastructure products such as road safety barriers
and bridge components, which has significant exposure to the US, and Kier,
which provides construction and infrastructure services across building,
transport and utilities projects in the UK. Regular readers of these reports
will know that we group holdings into two broad categories: 'unique' stocks,
which are high-conviction positions in companies with distinct and enduring
competitive strengths, and 'flex' stocks, which are positioned to benefit from
change such as a new management strategy or a cyclical upswing. Hill &
Smith and Kier are both classified as 'flex' holdings, though for different
reasons: Kier is exposed to what could be a 'golden age' for UK construction
amid an acute shortage of capacity and strong pent-up demand, while Hill &
Smith offers more diversified exposure to global infrastructure investment and
safety markets.

Within consumer discretionary, we added a holding in Frasers Group, whose
portfolio spans sports retail, premium fashion and luxury brands.
Consumer-facing stocks remain out of favour, weighing on valuations and
creating selective opportunities. While there are early signs of improvement
in parts of the premium and luxury goods market, Frasers also offers growth
potential through plans to expand its Sports Direct brand in Australia, New
Zealand and the Gulf region.

We also started a new position in digital technology business Kainos following
the return of its former CEO, Brendan Mooney, after a difficult period for the
company. Kainos enjoyed strong growth under Mooney's leadership from 2001 to
2023, expanding from a small Belfast‑based IT services provider into a
leading digital transformation and software consultancy with a unique
partnership with the US software giant Workday. With Mooney reinstated, we
have seen early positive results.

In terms of disposals, we sold WH Smith in April, following the disposal of
its high street business at a disappointing price. The business is now focused
on travel retail, but our preference in this area is for international airport
and railway station food and beverage operator SSP Group, which operates
stores for M&S for example in UK railway stations, and owns brands such as
Upper Crust, as well as operating international foodservice brands in
international airports. The core business is trading at very attractive levels
(under 2.0x Enterprise value to EBITDA)1, based on the market cap (£1.5bn) of
its recently floated Indian joint venture TFS.

1Enterprise value to EBITDA divides a company's enterprise value by its
earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. This metric
is useful for comparing the value of different companies by providing a
snapshot of a company's value relative to its operating profitability.

Elsewhere, we exited several other positions, including Oxford Instruments, a
manufacturer of scientific instruments and systems for the research sector,
following a change of management, gas explorer and producer Energean,
following a strong run and rising geopolitical risk, and Babcock
International, following its readmission to the FTSE 100.

Outlook
At the time of writing, the UK is preparing for its Autumn Budget against a
backdrop of rising fiscal pressure. While budget deficits and changing
political dynamics are not unique to the UK, the scale of the domestic fiscal
challenge is significant. The government faces a difficult balancing act:
delivering a more sustainable budget position while also supporting economic
growth. With bond markets increasingly attuned to fiscal credibility, there is
limited room for missteps. Meanwhile, discretionary spending remains fragile,
with subdued real income growth and patchy consumer confidence. Sterling
strength has added further complexity for internationally exposed businesses,
while domestically focused companies continue to navigate uneven demand.

Green shoots we could point to include better than expected September retail
sales, the fact that GDP growth estimates, while anaemic, have been steadily
revised upwards over the last six months back to March 2025 levels (see graph
below), and the October release of September's steady inflation numbers, which
came as a surprise to the market and resulted in a small UK mid cap rally.
Market moves such as this are a reminder of how little it would take to see
this oversold part of the market begin to significantly outperform, before
anticipating any changes the government might make as part of the Autumn
statement, for example to ISAs or pension rules, to encourage buying of shares
in UK listed companies. We have even seen a handful of UK IPOs post the
Company's financial year end, after a very fallow period. Finally, earnings
momentum has turned mildly positive.

Overseas investors are beginning to wake up to the opportunity in UK equities.
Global asset allocators, private equity buyers and industry consolidators have
been particularly active, drawn by relatively low valuations for high-quality
assets. In contrast, domestic investors have continued to be marked net
sellers of UK assets. Returns from large cap UK equities have already started
to improve over the last 1-2 years, and, in particular, year-to-date, despite
this domestic exodus. Therefore, even a modest shift in sentiment among UK
investors could prove powerful.

Perhaps this is why 2024's wave of M&A activity - 10% of the Mid 250 by
value was acquired in 2024 - has only gathered pace during 2025. This
underscores not just the low valuation of many UK companies, but the
attraction of their business models to potential acquirers. The Investment
Manager would therefore like to remind readers that the UK is still punching
above its weight in terms of multi-baggers relative to the US. Indeed, we have
had the great pleasure of interviewing several mid cap CEOs for our UK Mid 250
multi-bagger podcast. Most recently we met Telecom Plus CEO Stuart Burnett,
who talked to us about how this bundled utility provider became a
multi-bagger, outperforming the world's favourite large cap tech and
tech-adjacent stocks, Magnificent Seven, over the four years from July 2021 to
July 2025.

UK mid caps remain fertile ground for specialist, active investors. This part
of the market represents a "growth sweet spot", with companies that are both
mature enough to offer resilience and yet nimble enough to deliver premium
rates of growth. The FTSE 250 Index is constantly refreshed through takeovers,
promotions and relegations, and, in certain market conditions, initial public
offerings ("IPOs"). This creates a dynamic and evolving opportunity set.
Meanwhile, there is a better balance to the sector mix than for large caps,
with less concentration risk, and a wealth of companies operating in high
growth niches. Collectively, around half of mid cap revenues come from the UK
economy, with the other half stemming from overseas - this also provides
better balance than among large caps which are much more internationally
focused and macro driven, and it means we can flex domestic exposure up or
down as the investment environment evolves.

All of this has led to the FTSE 250 Index delivering long-term outperformance
over the FTSE 100 Index. Indeed, the FTSE 250 Index has also outperformed most
other major stock market indices, delivering a return that even outpaces the
mighty S&P 500 Index so far this century in local currency terms.

In this environment, selectivity remains critical. Our approach is rooted in
detailed company-level analysis, with a focus on balance sheet strength,
pricing power and management quality. We continue to favour businesses that
are well positioned to withstand external pressures and deliver through the
cycle. The portfolio remains tilted towards companies with valuation support,
low financial leverage and strong cash generation - offering the potential to
participate in long-term growth, while providing meaningful downside
protection in a more uncertain environment.

 

Schroder Investment Management Limited

26 November 2025

Past performance is not a guide to future performance. The value of
investments and the income from them may go down as well as up and investors
may not get back the amounts originally invested.

This information is not an offer, solicitation or recommendation to buy or
sell any financial instrument or to adopt any investment strategy.

For help in understanding any terms used, please visit
https://www.schroders.com/en/insights/invest-iq/investiq/education-hub/glossary/
(https://www.schroders.com/en/insights/invest-iq/investiq/education-hub/glossary/)

 

Risk Report

The Board, through its delegation to the Audit and Risk Committee, is
responsible for the Company's system of risk management and internal control
and for reviewing its effectiveness. The Board has adopted a detailed matrix
of principal risks affecting the Company's business as an investment trust and
has established associated policies and processes designed to manage and,
where possible, mitigate those risks, which are monitored by the Committee on
an ongoing basis. This system assists the Board in determining the nature and
extent of the risks it is willing to take in achieving the Company's strategic
objectives.

Risk assessment and internal controls review by the Board
Risk assessment includes consideration of the scope and quality of the systems
of internal control operating within key service providers, and ensures
regular communication of the results of monitoring by such providers to the
Audit and Risk Committee, including the incidence of significant control
failings or weaknesses that have been identified at any time and the extent
to which they have resulted in unforeseen outcomes or contingencies that may
have a material impact on the Company's performance or condition.

Although the Board believes that it has a robust framework of internal
controls in place this can provide only reasonable, and not absolute,
assurance against material financial misstatement or loss and is designed to
manage, not eliminate, risk.

Both the principal risks and uncertainties and the monitoring system are also
subject to robust review at least annually. The last assessment took place in
November 2025.

During the year, the Board discussed and monitored a number of risks that
could potentially impact the Company's ability to meet its strategic
objectives. The Board receives updates from the Investment Manager, Company
Secretary, and other service providers on emerging risks that could affect the
Company. The Board was mindful of the evolving global environment during the
year; and the risks posed by volatile markets, and inflation and
corresponding interest levels which could affect the asset class. However,
these are not factors which explicitly impacted the Company's performance.
These risks are seen as exacerbating existing risks and have been incorporated
in the macro factors, including the geopolitical/economic environment and
climate change risk section in the table on the following pages.

The Board considered in detail whether there were any material emerging risks
and has included the development of artificial intelligence as emerging risk.

No significant control failings or weaknesses were identified from the Audit
and Risk Committee's ongoing risk assessment throughout the financial year
and up to the date of this report. The Board is satisfied that it has
undertaken a detailed review of the risks facing the Company and that the
internal control environment continues to operate effectively.

Actions taken by the Board and, where appropriate, its Committees, to manage
and mitigate the Company's principal risks and uncertainties are set out in
the table below. The "Change" column on the right highlights at a glance the
Board's assessment of any increases or decreases in risk during the year after
mitigation and management. The arrows show the risks as increased, decreased,
or unchanged.

 Risk                                                                            Mitigation and management                                                        Change
 Strategy
 Market and Economic                                                             The Board, in conjunction with the Manager, considers changes in economic and    ↑

                                                                               monetary conditions and market valuations relative to history and
 Changing economic, monetary, and market conditions, leading to a significant     other assets.
 fall in equity markets, could adversely impact the value of the Company's

 underlying investments. The use of gearing (borrowing) can amplify both gains   The Board reviews the use (and cost and availability) of gearing, with strict
 and losses.                                                                     restrictions on borrowing imposed so as not to exceed 25% of total assets.
 Political and Policy                                                            The Board receives regular updates of political/policy risks from the Manager,   ↑

                                                                               and considers relevant issues and UK public policy changes, to the extent that
 Political risks, such as diplomatic tensions, trade wars, and military          they apply to the Company.
 conflict, and changes in UK public policy, could impact the Company's
 strategy, objectives, and performance.
 Company Objective                                                               The Board continually monitors the Company's success in meeting its stated       ↔

                                                                               objectives and periodically reviews the appropriateness of the Company's
 Risk that the Company's investment objective, key performance indicators,       investment remit.
 marketing strategy, and cost base are not aligned with shareholders'

 objectives, resulting in the Company being unattractive to investors and a      During the year, the Board introduced strategic initiatives to strengthen and
 wide discount in the share price to NAV per share.                              align the Company's objectives with the interests of shareholders.

                                                                                 The Manager's and Corporate Broker's marketing and distribution activities are
                                                                                 reviewed at each meeting.

                                                                                 Share price discount to NAV per share and liquidity are monitored daily by the
                                                                                 Board, and the use of buyback authorities is regularly reviewed.

                                                                                 Service provider fees are subject to periodic benchmarking to ensure
                                                                                 competitiveness.

                                                                                 Annual consideration of the management fee is undertaken by the MEC.

                                                                                 The cost and use of gearing is continually monitored with strict restrictions
                                                                                 on borrowing imposed.
 Investment
 Investment Performance                                                          The Board reviews the Manager's compliance with agreed investment restrictions   ↔

                                                                               and guidelines, the portfolio's risk profile, portfolio activity, performance
 Investment performance may underperform the Company's investment objective,     against investment objectives, strategy and peers; and whether appropriate
 the market, and/or the peer group.                                              strategies are employed to mitigate any negative impact of substantial changes
                                                                                 in markets.

                                                                                 The Board routinely evaluates thematic and factor risks, stock selection,
                                                                                 performance attribution, and considers ESG issues and the impact of gearing
                                                                                 and buybacks on performance.
 Shareholder Register and Engagement                                             The Board and Manager regularly consider shareholders' views and look to         ↑

                                                                               implement initiatives that benefit all shareholders.
 The Company is unable to communicate directly with shareholders, who hold

 shares via platforms, or encourage them to vote at general meetings. If these   Through general communications in Company documents, the Board seeks to
 shareholders do not vote, results may represent the view of a small number of   encourage voting and identify ways of assisting shareholders to vote through
 shareholders, and any decisions reached may not reflect the views of, or be      platforms, for example, by referring shareholders to guidance made available
 in the best interests of, the majority of the Company's shareholders.           by the Association of Investment Companies.
 Operational
 Third Party Service Providers                                                   The Board agrees contractual arrangements with service providers and reviews     ↔

                                                                               annual audited internal controls reports from key service providers, including
 The Company relies on external service providers for key functions. Risks       confirmation of business continuity arrangements and IT controls.
 include control failures, poor performance, and business disruption.

                                                                                 All Board members may attend the Manager's Internal Controls Day to meet
                                                                                 directly with third-party service providers.
 Cyber Security                                                                  The Board receives updates from the Manager's internal cyber security team       ↔

                                                                               covering the cyber security framework, staff resources and training, security
 The Company's operational structure means all cyber risk arises at its          system testing and any issues of concern.
 third-party service providers. Cyber-attacks could lead to operational

 disruption and the misplacement or loss of assets, personal and confidential     Cyber-security is monitored as part of the annual review of the internal
 information.                                                                    controls of its service providers.
 Key Personnel and Succession                                                    The Board considers the Manager's key man risk and succession plans and          ↔

                                                                               requests the Manager to confirm succession planning arrangements as part of
 Loss of the Investment Manager or other key personnel could negatively impact   the annual evaluation of the Manager by the Management Engagement Committee
 investor sentiment and widen the discount to NAV.                               ("MEC").
 Regulatory
 Regulatory, Legal, and Tax Compliance                                           The Board monitors compliance through reports from the Manager and other         ↔

                                                                               service providers.
 Failure to comply with UK Listing Rules, Companies Act, investment trust tax

 status (section 1158 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010), or maintain proper       The Board reviews financial information at each board meeting and receives
 accounting records could have adverse consequences.                             regular presentations by the Manager's Risk and internal audit function.
 Financial Reporting and Information                                             Errors or omissions by the Manager or other service providers are brought to     ↔

                                                                               the attention of the Board as soon as they are identified.
 Errors or irregularities in published information (e.g., NAVs, reports) may

 occur, especially during transitions between service providers.                 Risks arising from the transition between service providers were mitigated by
                                                                                 dual-running and testing of systems prior to handover, and regular
                                                                                 communications with the Board.

                                                                                 Half Year and Annual Reports are subject to intensive review by the Audit and
                                                                                 Risk Committee and the Board.
 Emerging risks
 Artificial Intelligence ("AI")

 The development of AI presents potential risks and opportunities to businesses
 in almost every sector. The Board acknowledges that the risks associated with
 AI are challenging to quantify at this stage; however, AI is regarded as an
 emerging risk, particularly given its potential to distort asset valuations.
 The Board, together with the Manager and Investment Manager, will continue to
 monitor developments in this area.

Conclusion

Viability statement
The Directors have assessed the viability of the Company over a five year
period, taking into account the Company's position as at 30 September 2025 and
the potential impact of the principal and emerging risks and uncertainties it
faces for the review period. The Directors have assessed the Company's
operational resilience and they are satisfied that the Company's outsourced
service providers will continue to operate effectively.

A period of five years has been chosen as the Board believes that this
reflects a suitable time horizon for strategic planning, taking into account
the investment policy, liquidity of investments, potential impact of economic
cycles, nature of operating costs, dividends and availability of funding. This
time period also reflects the average holding period of an investment.

In its assessment of the viability of the Company, the Directors have
considered each of the Company's principal risks and uncertainties detailed on
pages 32 and 33 of the Annual Report and Financial Statements and in
particular the impact of a significant fall in regional equity markets on the
value of the Company's investment portfolio. The Directors have also
considered the Company's income and expenditure projections and the fact that
the Company's investments comprise readily realisable securities which can be
sold to meet funding requirements if necessary.

The Directors have also considered a stress test which represents a severe but
plausible scenario along with movement in foreign exchange rates. This
scenario assumes a severe stock market collapse and/or exchange rate movements
at the beginning of the five year period, resulting in a 50% fall in the
value of the Company's investments and investment income and no subsequent
recovery in either prices or income in the following five years. It is
assumed that the Company continues to pay an annual dividend in line with
current levels and that the borrowing facility is repaid through the proceeds
of equity sales.

The Company's investments comprise highly liquid, large, listed companies and
so its assets are readily realisable securities and could be sold to meet
funding requirements or the repayment of the gearing facility should the need
arise. There is no expectation that the nature of the investments held within
the portfolio will be materially different in the future.

The Company's loan facility is due to expire in February 2026. If acceptable
terms are available from the existing lenders, or any alternative, the Company
would expect to continue to access an equivalent facility. However, should
these terms not be forthcoming, the outstanding borrowing attributable to this
facility would be repaid through the proceeds of equity sales.

The operating costs of the Company are predictable and modest in comparison
with the assets and there are no capital commitments foreseen which would
alter that position. Furthermore, the Company has no employees and
consequently no redundancy or other employment related liabilities.

The Board reviews the performance of the Company's service providers
regularly, including the Manager, along with internal controls reports to
provide assurance regarding the effective operation of internal controls as
reported on by their reporting accountants. The Board also considers the
business continuity arrangements of the Company's key service providers.

The Board monitors the portfolio risk profile, limits imposed on gearing,
counterparty exposure, liquidity risk and financial controls at its quarterly
meetings.

Although there continue to be regulatory changes which could increase costs or
impact revenue, the Directors do not believe that this would be sufficient to
affect its viability.

It is not intended that the Company should have a limited life but the
Directors consider it desirable that the shareholders should have the
opportunity to review the future of the Company at appropriate intervals. As
such, the Board has introduced a continuation vote to be proposed at the AGM
to be held in 2028, and, if passed, every three years thereafter to ensure
that the Company remains relevant to its shareholders and in-line with best
corporate governance practice. The continuation vote will be proposed as an
ordinary resolution requiring a simple majority of those voting to be passed.
If any continuation vote is not passed, the Directors will put forward
proposals for the reconstruction or winding-up of the Company to shareholders
for their approval within six months following the date on which the
continuation vote is not passed. In concluding on the viability, the Directors
have made the assumption that shareholders will vote to continue the Company.

The Board has assumed that the business model of a closed ended investment
company, as well as the Company's investment objective, will continue to be
attractive to investors. The Directors also considered the beneficial tax
treatment the Company is eligible for as an investment trust. If changes to
these taxation arrangements were to be made it would affect the viability of
the Company to act as an effective investment vehicle.

Based on the above the Directors have concluded that there is a reasonable
expectation that the Company will be able to continue in operation and meet
its liabilities as they fall due over the five year period of their
assessment.

Going concern
The Directors have assessed the principal risks, the impact of any emerging
risks and uncertainties and the matters referred to in the viability
statement. Based on the work the Directors have performed, they have not
identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that,
individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Company's
ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least 12 months from
the date the financial statements were authorised for issue.

By order of the Board

Harry Morley

Chair

26 November 2025

 

Statement of Directors' Responsibilities in respect of the Annual Report and
Financial Statements

Directors' responsibilities
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the
Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each
financial year. Under that law, the Directors have elected to prepare the
financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted
Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards, comprising Financial
Reporting Standard ("FRS") 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in
the UK and Republic of Ireland" and applicable law). Under company law, the
Directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are
satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the
Company and of the profit or loss of the Company for that period. In
preparing these financial statements, the Directors are required to:

●       select suitable accounting policies and then apply them
consistently;

●       make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable
and prudent;

●       state whether they have been prepared in accordance with UK
adopted international accounting standards, subject to any material departures
disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

●       prepare the Financial Statements on the going concern basis
unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in
business;

●       prepare a Directors' report, a strategic report and Directors'
remuneration report which comply with the requirements of the Companies Act
2006.

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are
sufficient to show and explain the Company's transactions and disclose with
reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and
enable them to ensure that the financial statements and the Directors'
Remuneration Report comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also
responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and hence for taking
reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for ensuring the Annual Report and the Financial
Statements are made available on a website. Financial statements are published
on the Company's website in accordance with legislation in the United Kingdom
governing the preparation and dissemination of Financial Statements, which may
vary from legislation in other jurisdictions. The maintenance and integrity of
the Company's website is the responsibility of the Directors. The Directors'
responsibility also extends to the ongoing integrity of the financial
statements contained therein.

Directors' statement
Each of the Directors, whose names and functions are listed on pages 38 and 39
of the Annual Report and Financial Statements, confirm that to the best of
their knowledge:

●       the Financial Statements, which have been prepared in
accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United
Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law), give a true and fair view of
the assets, liabilities, financial position and net return of the Company;

●       the Annual Report includes a fair review of the development
and performance of the business and the financial position of the group and
company, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties
that they face; and

●       the Annual Report and Financial Statements, taken as a whole,
is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary
for shareholders to assess the Company's position and performance, business
model and strategy.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Harry Morley

Chair
26 November 2025

 

Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year ended 30 September 2025

                                                                       2025                                               2024
                                                                 Note  Revenue          Capital          Total            Revenue          Capital          Total

£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
 Gains on investments held at fair value through profit or loss  2     -                14,398           14,398           -                31,395           31,395
 Realised exchange (losses) on currency balances                       -                (73)             (73)             -                -                -
 Income from investments                                         3     10,135           4,288            14,423           8,614            -                8,614
 Other interest receivable and similar income                    3     186              -                186              123              -                123
                                                                       ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Gross return                                                          10,321           18,613           28,934           8,737            31,395           40,132
                                                                       =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========
 Investment management fee                                       4     (456)            (1,064)          (1,520)          (495)            (1,155)          (1,650)
 Administrative expenses                                         5     (827)            -                (827)            (738)            -                (738)
                                                                       ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Net return before finance costs and taxation                          9,038            17,549           26,587           7,504            30,240           37,744
 Finance costs                                                   6     (390)            (910)            (1,300)          (402)            (937)            (1,339)
                                                                       ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Net return before taxation                                            8,648            16,639           25,287           7,102            29,303           36,405
 Taxation                                                        7     -                -                -                -                -                -
                                                                       ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Net return after taxation                                             8,648            16,639           25,287           7,102            29,303           36,405
                                                                       =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========
 Return per share (pence)                                        9     25.03            48.15            73.18            20.54            84.74            105.28
                                                                       =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========

 

The "Total" column of this statement is the profit and loss account of the
Company. The "Revenue" and "Capital" columns represent supplementary
information prepared under guidance issued by The Association of Investment
Companies. The Company has no other items of other comprehensive income, and
therefore the net return after taxation is also the total comprehensive income
for the year.

All revenue and capital items in the above statement derive from continuing
operations. No operations were acquired or discontinued in the year.

Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 30 September 2025

                             Note  Called-up        Share            Capital          Merger           Share            Capital          Revenue          Total

share
premium
redemption
reserve
purchase
reserves
reserve
£'000

capital
£'000
reserve
£'000
reserve
£'000
£'000

£'000
£'000
£'000
 At 30 September 2023              9,036            13,971           220              2,184            7,233            170,960          10,219           213,823
 Net return after taxation         -                -                -                -                -                29,303           7,102            36,405
 Dividends paid in the year  8     -                -                -                -                -                -                (7,262)          (7,262)
                                   ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 At 30 September 2024              9,036            13,971           220              2,184            7,233            200,263          10,059           242,966
                                   =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========
 Net return after taxation         -                -                -                -                -                16,639           8,648            25,287
 Cost of share buybacks            -                -                -                -                (1,845)          -                -                (1,845)
 Dividends paid in the year  8     -                -                -                -                -                -                (7,538)          (7,538)
                                   ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 At 30 September 2025              9,036            13,971           220              2,184            5,388            216,902          11,169           258,870
                                   =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========

 

Statement of Financial Position at 30 September 2025

                                                        Note  2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Fixed assets
 Investments held at fair value through profit or loss  10    267,652          261,421
                                                              ---------------  ---------------
 Current assets
 Debtors                                                11    4,518            7,469
 Current asset investments                              12    2,905            116
 Cash at bank and in hand                                     1,775            1,845
                                                              ---------------  ---------------
                                                              9,198            9,430
                                                              =========        =========
 Current liabilities
 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year         13    (17,980)         (27,885)
 Net current liabilities                                      (8,782)          (18,455)
                                                              ---------------  ---------------
 Total assets less current liabilities                        258,870          242,966
                                                              =========        =========
 Net assets                                                   258,870          242,966
                                                              =========        =========
 Capital and reserves
 Called-up share capital                                14    9,036            9,036
 Share premium                                          15    13,971           13,971
 Capital redemption reserve                             15    220              220
 Merger reserve                                         15    2,184            2,184
 Share purchase reserve                                 15    5,388            7,233
 Capital reserves                                       15    216,902          200,263
 Revenue reserve                                        15    11,169           10,059
                                                              ---------------  ---------------
 Total equity shareholders' funds                             258,870          242,966
                                                              =========        =========
 Net asset value per share (pence)                      16    754.45           702.60
                                                              =========        =========

 

These Financial Statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board
of Directors on 26 November 2025 and signed on its behalf by:

Harry Morley

Chair

Registered in Scotland as a public company limited by shares

Company registration number: SC082551

 

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 September 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(a) Basis of accounting
Schroder UK Mid Cap Fund plc ("the Company") is registered in Scotland as a
public company limited by shares. The Company's registered office is 9
Haymarket Square, Edinburgh EH3 8FY.

The financial statements are prepared in accordance with the Companies Act
2006, United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice ("UK GAAP"), in
particular in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard (FRS) 102 "The
Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland",
and with the Statement of Recommended Practice "Financial Statements of
Investment Trust Companies and Venture Capital Trusts" (the "SORP") issued by
the Association of Investment Companies in July 2022. All of the Company's
operations are of a continuing nature.

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis under the
historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of investments held
at fair value through profit or loss. The Directors believe that the Company
has adequate resources to continue operating for at least 12 months from the
date of approval of these financial statements. In forming this opinion, the
Directors have taken into consideration: stress testing prepared by the
Manager which modelled a 50% decline in valuation of investments and
investment income and demonstrated the Company's ability to comply with the
covenants of its borrowing agreements and pay its operating expenses; the
controls and monitoring processes in place; the Company's level of debt and
other payables; the low level of operating expenses, comprising largely
variable costs which would reduce pro-rata in the event of a market downturn;
and that the Company's assets comprise cash and readily realisable securities
quoted in active markets. In forming this opinion, the Directors have also
considered the loan currently in place which expires on 26 February 2026.
Further details of Directors' considerations regarding this are given in the
Chair's Statement, Investment Manager's Review, Going Concern Statement,
Viability Statement and under the Principal Emerging Risks and uncertainties
in the Strategic Report.

The Company has not presented a statement of cash flows, as it is not required
under section 7 of FRS 102 for an investment fund whose investments are highly
liquid, carried at market value and which presents a statement of changes in
equity.

The financial statements are presented in sterling and amounts have been
rounded to the nearest thousand.

The accounting policies applied to these Financial Statements are consistent
with those applied in the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 September
2024.

No significant judgements, estimates or assumptions have been required in the
preparation of the financial statements for the current or preceding financial
year.

(b) Valuation of investments
The Company's business is investing in financial assets with a view to
profiting from their total return in the form of income and capital growth.
This portfolio of financial assets is managed and its performance evaluated on
a fair value basis, in accordance with a documented investment objective and
information is provided internally on that basis to the Company's Board of
Directors. Accordingly, upon initial recognition the investments are
designated by the Company as "held at fair value through profit or loss". They
are included initially at fair value which is taken to be their cost,
excluding expenses incidental to purchase which are written off to capital at
the time of acquisition. Subsequently the investments are valued at fair
value, which are quoted bid prices.

Any investments that are unlisted or not actively traded would be valued using
a variety of techniques to determine their fair value; any such valuations
would be reviewed by both the AIFM's fair value pricing committee and by the
Directors.

All purchases and sales are accounted for on a trade date basis.

(c) Accounting for reserves
Gains and losses on sales of investments and increases and decreases in the
valuation of investments are included in the statement of comprehensive income
and in capital reserves within "gains on investments held at fair value
through profit or loss".

(d) Income
Dividends receivable are included in revenue on an ex-dividend basis except
where, in the opinion of the Board, the dividend is capital in nature, in
which case it is included in capital.

Where the Company has elected to receive scrip dividends in the form of
additional shares rather than in cash, the amount of the cash dividend
foregone is recognised in revenue. Any excess in the value of the shares
received over the amount of the cash dividend is recognised in capital.

Dividends from UK REITs are split into PID (Property Income Distributions) and
Non-PID components for tax purposes. Revenue arising from UK REITs tax exempt
rental business is colloquially known as PID revenue and is taxable in the
hands if the Trust. A UK REIT may also carry out activities that give rise to
taxable profits and gains, it is from these that the REIT will make a Non-PID
distribution, these are treated for tax purposes in the same way as dividends
from UK companies.

(e) Expenses
All expenses are accounted for on an accruals basis. All expenses are
accounted for on an accruals basis. Expenses are allocated wholly to the
revenue column of the Income Statement with the following exceptions:

·        The management fee is allocated 30% to revenue and 70% to
capital (2024: same) in line with the Board's expected long-term split of
revenue and capital return from the Company's investment portfolio.

·        Expenses incidental to the purchase or sale of an investment
are charged to capital. These expenses are commonly referred to as transaction
costs and comprise brokerage commission and stamp duty. Details of transaction
costs are given in note 10 on page 68 of the Annual Report and Financial
Statements.

(f) Finance costs
Finance costs, including any premiums payable on settlement or redemption and
direct issue costs, are accounted for on an accruals basis using the effective
interest method and in accordance with FRS 102.

Finance costs are allocated 30% to revenue and 70% to capital (2024: same) in
line with the Board's expected long-term split of revenue and capital return
from the Company's investment portfolio.

(g) Other financial instruments
Cash at bank and in hand compromises cash held in the bank. Current asset
investments comprise investments in money market funds and highly liquid
investments which are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are
subject to insignificant risk of changes in value.

Other debtors and creditors do not carry any interest, are short-term in
nature and are accordingly stated at nominal value, with debtors reduced by
appropriate allowances for estimated irrecoverable amounts.

Bank loans and overdrafts are initially measured at fair value and
subsequently at amortised cost. They are recorded at the proceeds received net
of direct issue costs.

(h) Taxation
Taxation comprises amounts expected to be received or paid.

Deferred tax is provided on all timing differences that have originated but
not reversed by the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable timing differences but
deferred tax assets are only recognised to the extent that it is probable that
taxable profits will be available against which those timing differences can
be utilised.

Tax relief is allocated to expenses charged to the capital column of the
Income Statement on the "marginal basis". On this basis, if taxable income is
capable of being entirely offset by revenue expenses, then no tax relief is
transferred to the capital column.

Deferred tax is measured at the tax rate which is expected to apply in the
periods in which the timing differences are expected to reverse, based on tax
rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the accounting date
and is measured on an undiscounted basis.

(i) Value added tax (VAT)
Expenses are disclosed inclusive of the related irrecoverable VAT.

(j) Dividends payable
In accordance with FRS 102, the final dividend is included in the financial
statements in the year in which it is approved by shareholders.

(k) Repurchases of shares into treasury and subsequent reissues
The cost of repurchasing shares into treasury, including the related stamp
duty and transaction costs is dealt with in the Statement of Changes in Equity
and charged to "Share purchase reserve". Share repurchase transactions are
accounted for on a trade date basis.

The sales proceeds of treasury shares reissued are treated as a realised
profit up to the amount of the purchase price of those shares and is
transferred to capital reserves. The excess of the sales proceeds over the
purchase price is transferred to "share premium".

2. Gains on investments held at fair value through profit or loss

                                                                                 2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Gains/(losses) on sales of investments based on historic cost                   26,084           4,542
 Amounts recognised in investment holding gains and losses in the previous year  (15,094)         5,878
 in respect of investments sold in the year
                                                                                 ---------------  ---------------
 Gains on sales of investments based on the carrying value at the previous       10,990           10,420
 balance sheet date
 Net movement in investment holding gains and losses                             3,408            20,975
                                                                                 ---------------  ---------------
 Gains on investments held at fair value through profit or loss                  14,398           31,395
                                                                                 =========        =========

 

3. Income

                                               2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Income from investments
 UK dividends                                  9,875            8,247
 UK property income distributions              260              359
 Other income                                  -                8
                                               ---------------  ---------------
                                               10,135           8,614
                                               =========        =========
 Other interest receivable and similar income
 Deposit interest                              186              123
                                               ---------------  ---------------
                                               10,321           8,737
                                               =========        =========
 Capital
 Special dividends allocated to capital        4,288            -
                                               =========        =========

 

The special dividend allocated to capital during the year arose from the
disposal of a subsidiary of the Playtech Group.

4. Investment management fee

                 2025                             2024
                 Revenue    Capital    Total      Revenue    Capital    Total

£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
 Management fee  456        1,064      1,520      495        1,155      1,650
                 =========  =========  =========  =========  =========  =========

 

5. Administrative expenses

                                               2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Other administrative expenses(1)              440              351
 Secretarial fee                               181              176
 Directors' fees                               138              145
 Auditor's remuneration for audit services(2)  68               66
                                               ---------------  ---------------
                                               827              738
                                               =========        =========

1    Included within other administrative expenses are one off amounts
totaling £144,000 in relation to legal and other advisory services as a
result of the proposed requisition of the Company by a shareholder during the
year.

2    Includes £11,000 (2024: £11,000) irrecoverable VAT.

6. Finance costs

                                        2025                             2024
                                        Revenue    Capital    Total      Revenue    Capital    Total

£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
 Interest on bank loans and overdrafts  390        910        1,300      402        937        1,339
                                        =========  =========  =========  =========  =========  =========

 

7. TAXATION

(a) Analysis of tax charge for the year

                        2025       2024

£'000
£'000
 Taxation for the year  -          -
                        =========  =========

 

(b) Factors affecting tax charge for the year
The tax assessed for the year is lower (2024: lower) than the Company's
applicable rate of corporation tax in for the year of 25% (2024: 25%).

The factors affecting the current tax charge for the year are as follows:

                                                                                2025                             2024
                                                                                Revenue    Capital    Total      Revenue    Capital    Total

£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
 Net return on ordinary activities before taxation                              8,648      16,639     25,287     7,102      29,303     36,405
 Net return on ordinary activities before taxation multiplied by the Company's  2,162      4,160      6,322      1,775      7,326      9,101
 applicable rate of corporation tax for the year of 25% (2024: 25%)
 Effects of:
 Capital returns on investments                                                 -          (3,581)    (3,581)    -          (7,849)    (7,849)
 Income not chargeable to corporation tax                                       (2,459)    (1,072)    (3,531)    (2,062)    -          (2,062)
 Unrelieved expenses for the period                                             297        493        790        287        523        810
 Taxation for the year                                                          -          -          -          -          -          -
                                                                                =========  =========  =========  =========  =========  =========

 

(c) Deferred taxation
At 30 September 2025, the Company had surplus management expenses of
£39,862,000 (2024: £37,833,000) and a non-trade loan relationship deficit of
£6,412,000 (2024: £5,278,000). A deferred tax asset has not been recognised
in respect of these losses because the investment portfolio of the Company is
not expected to generate taxable income in future periods in excess of the
deductible expenses of those future periods and, accordingly, it is unlikely
that the Company will be able to reduce future tax liabilities through the use
of existing tax losses.

Accordingly, the deferred tax asset has been calculated based on the
corporation tax rate in effect from 1 April 2023 of 25%, as enacted by the
Finance Act 2021.

Given the Company's intention to meet the conditions required to retain its
status as an Investment Trust Company, no provision has been made for deferred
tax on any capital gains or losses arising on the revaluation or disposal of
investments.

8. Dividends

(a) Dividends paid and declared

                                             2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 2024 final dividend of 15.5p (2023: 15.0p)  5,360            5,187
 Interim dividend of 6.3p (2024: 6.0p)       2,178            2,075
                                             ---------------  ---------------
 Total dividends paid in the year            7,538            7,262
                                             =========        =========

 

                                                                                2025       2024

£'000
£'000
 2025 final dividend declared of 16.1p (2024: 15.5p) to be paid out of revenue  5,524      5,360
 profits
                                                                                =========  =========

 

(b) Dividends for the purposes of Section 1158 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010
("Section 1158")
The requirements of Section 1158 are considered on the basis of dividends
declared in respect of the financial year as shown below. The revenue
available for distribution by way of dividend for the year is £8,648,000
(2024: £7,102,000).

                                        2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Interim dividend of 6.3p (2024: 6.0p)  2,178            2,075
 Final dividend of 16.1p (2024: 15.5p)  5,524            5,360
                                        ---------------  ---------------
                                        7,702            7,435
                                        =========        =========

 

9. Return per share

                                                             2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Revenue return                                              8,648            7,102
 Capital return                                              16,639           29,303
                                                             ---------------  ---------------
 Total return                                                25,287           36,405
                                                             =========        =========
 Weighted average number of shares in issue during the year  34,553,960       34,581,190
 Revenue return per share (pence)                            25.03            20.54
 Capital return per share (pence)                            48.15            84.74
                                                             ---------------  ---------------
 Total return per share (pence)                              73.18            105.28
                                                             =========        =========

 

10. Investments held at fair value through profit or loss
(a) Movement in investments

                                                2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Opening book cost                              222,578          215,960
 Opening investment holding gains/(losses)      38,843           11,990
                                                ---------------  ---------------
 Opening fair value                             261,421          227,950
                                                =========        =========
 Analysis of transactions made during the year
 Purchases at cost                              92,098           90,533
 Sales proceeds                                 (100,265)        (88,457)
 Gains on investments held at fair value        14,398           31,395
                                                ---------------  ---------------
 Closing fair value                             267,652          261,421
                                                =========        =========
 Closing book cost                              240,495          222,578
 Closing investment holding gains               27,157           38,843
                                                ---------------  ---------------
 Closing fair value                             267,652          261,421
                                                =========        =========

 

Sales proceeds amounting to £100,265,000 (2024: £88,457,000) were receivable
from disposals of investments in the year. The book cost of these investments
when they were purchased was £74,180,000 (2024: £83,914,000). These
investments have been revalued over time and until they were sold any
unrealised gains and losses were included in the fair value of the
investments.

All investments are listed on a recognised stock exchange.

The following transaction costs, comprising stamp duty and brokerage
commission were incurred during the year:

                  2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 On acquisitions  449              409
 On disposals     46               43
                  ---------------  ---------------
                  495              452
                  =========        =========

 

11. Debtors

                                      2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Securities sold awaiting settlement  3,977            6,907
 Dividends and interest receivable    523              552
 Other debtors                        18               10
                                      ---------------  ---------------
                                      4,518            7,469
                                      =========        =========

 

12. Current asset investments

                     2025       2024

£'000
£'000
 Money market funds  2,905      116
                     =========  =========

 

As at 30 September 2025, the Company held HSBC Sterling Liquidity fund with a
market value of £2,905,000 (30 September 2024: £116,000).

13. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

                                           2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Bank loan                                 17,000           25,000
 Securities purchased awaiting settlement  443              1,815
 Other creditors and accruals              537              1,070
                                           ---------------  ---------------
                                           17,980           27,885
                                           =========        =========

 

The bank loan comprises a £30 million revolving credit facility agreement
with Bank of Nova Scotia, London Branch expiring on 25 February 2026, of
which, £17 million has been drawn down.

The Directors consider that the carrying amount of creditors falling due
within one year approximates to their fair value.

14. Called-up share capital

                                                                                 2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Allotted, called-up and fully paid:
 Ordinary shares of 25p each:
 Opening balance of 34,312,190 (2024: 34,581,190) shares, excluding shares held  8,578            8,645
 in treasury
                                                                                 ---------------  ---------------
 Subtotal of 34,312,190 (2024: 34,581,190) shares                                8,578            8,645
                                                                                 =========        =========
 1,831,500 (2024: 1,562,500) shares held in treasury                             458              391
                                                                                 ---------------  ---------------
 Closing balance(1)                                                              9,036            9,036
                                                                                 =========        =========

1    Represents 36,143,690 (2024: same) shares of 25p each, including
1,831,500 (2024: 1,562,500) shares held in treasury.

 

15. Reserves

                                                                            Capital reserves
 Year ended 30 September 2025                                               Share            Capital          Merger           Share            Gains and        Investment       Revenue

premium(1)
redemption
reserve(1)
purchase
losses on
holding
reserve(4)

£'000
reserve(1)
£'000
reserve(2
sales of
gains and
£'000

£'000                            ) £'000
investments(2)
losses(3)

£'000
£'000
 Opening balance at 30 September 2024                                       13,971           220              2,184            7,233            161,420          38,843           10,059
 Gains on sales of investments based on the carrying value at the previous  -                -                -                -                10,990           -                -

balance sheet date
 Net movement in investment holding gains and losses                        -                -                -                -                -                3,408            -
 Cost of share buybacks                                                     -                -                -                (1,845)          -                -                -
 Exchange rate movement                                                     -                -                -                -                (73)             -                -
 Transfer on disposal of investments                                        -                -                -                -                15,094           (15,094)         -
 Management fee allocated to capital                                        -                -                -                -                (1,064)          -                -
 Finance costs allocated to capital                                         -                -                -                -                (910)            -                -
 Special dividend allocated to capital                                      -                -                -                -                4,288            -                -
 Dividends paid                                                             -                -                -                -                -                -                (7,538)
 Retained revenue for the year                                              -                -                -                -                -                -                8,648
                                                                            ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Closing balance at 30 September 2025                                       13,971           220              2,184            5,388            189,745          27,157           11,169
                                                                            =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========

 

                                                                            Capital reserves
 Year ended 30 September 2024                                               Share            Capital          Merger           Share            Gains and        Investment       Revenue

premium(1)
redemption
reserve(1)
purchase
losses on
holding
reserve(4)

£'000
reserve(1)
£'000
reserve(2
sales of
gains and
£'000

£'000                            ) £'000
investments(2)
losses(3)

£'000
£'000
 Opening balance at 30 September 2023                                       13,971           220              2,184            7,233            158,970          11,990           10,219
 Gains on sales of investments based on the carrying value at the previous  -                -                -                -                10,420           -                -

balance sheet date
 Net movement in investment holding gains and losses                        -                -                -                -                -                20,975           -
 Transfer on disposal of investments                                        -                -                -                -                (5,878)          5,878            -
 Management fee allocated to capital                                        -                -                -                -                (1,155)          -                -
 Finance costs allocated to capital                                         -                -                -                -                (937)            -                -
 Dividends paid                                                             -                -                -                -                -                -                (7,262)
 Retained revenue for the year                                              -                -                -                -                -                -                7,102
                                                                            ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Closing balance at 30 September 2024                                       13,971           220              2,184            7,233            161,420          38,843           10,059
                                                                            =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========        =========

1    These reserves are not distributable. The "Merger reserve" represents
the premium over the nominal value of shares issued following a merger in
1989.

2    These are realised (distributable) capital reserves which may be used
to repurchase the Company's own shares or distributed as dividends. The "Share
purchase reserve" is for the purpose of financing share buy-backs and was
created following the cancellation of the "Warrant reserve" in 2003.

3    This reserve comprises holding gains on liquid investments (which may
be deemed to be realised) and other amounts which are unrealised. An analysis
has not been made between those amounts that are realised (and may be
distributed as dividends or used to repurchase the Company's own shares) and
those that are unrealised.

4    The revenue reserve may be distributed as dividends or used to
repurchase the Company's own shares.

The total of distributable reserves for the year ended 30 September 2025 are
£206,302,000 (2024: £178,712,000).

The total of non-distributable reserves for the year ended 30 September 2025
are £43,532,000 (2024: £55,218,000).

16. Net asset value per share

                                                                     2025        2024
 Net assets attributable to the Ordinary shareholders (£'000)        258,870     242,966
 Shares in issue at the year end, excluding shares held in treasury  34,312,190  34,581,190
 Net asset value per share (pence)                                   754.45      702.60
                                                                     =========   =========

 

17. Transactions with the Manager
Under the terms of the AIFM Agreement, the Manager is entitled to receive a
management fee and a company secretarial fee. Details of the basis of these
calculations are given in the Directors' Report on page 41 of the Annual
Report and Financial Statements. Any investments in funds managed or advised
by the Manager or any of its associated companies, are excluded from the
assets used for the purpose of the management fee calculation and therefore
incur no fee.

The management fee payable in respect of the year ended 30 September 2025
amounted to £1,520,000 (2024: £1,650,000) of which £181,000 (2024:
£854,000) was outstanding at the year end. The secretarial fee payable for
the year amounted to £181,000 (2024: £176,000), of which £45,000 (2024:
£88,000) was outstanding at the year end.

No Director of the Company served as a Director of any member of the Schroder
Group, at any time during the year.

18. Related party transactions
Details of the remuneration payable to Directors are given in the Remuneration
Report on page 50 and details of Directors' shareholdings are given in the
Remuneration Report on page 52 of the Annual Report and Financial Statements.
Details of transactions with the Manager are given in note 17 above. There
have been no other transactions with related parties during the year (2024:
nil).

19. Disclosures regarding financial instruments measured at fair value
The Company's financial instruments within the scope of FRS 102 that are held
at fair value comprise its investment portfolio.

FRS 102 requires that financial instruments held at fair value are categorised
into a hierarchy consisting of the three levels below. A fair value
measurement is categorised in its entirety on the basis of the lowest level
input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

Level 1: valued using unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for
identical assets.

Level 2: valued using inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1,
that are observable (i.e. developed using market data). Level 3: valued using
inputs that are unobservable (i.e. for which market data is unavailable).

Details of the Company's valuation policy are given in note 1(b) on page 64 of
the Annual Report and Financial Statements.

At 30 September 2025, the Company's investments were all categorised in Level
1 (2024: same).

20. Financial instruments' exposure to risk and risk management policies
The Company's investment objective is to invest in mid cap equities with the
aim of providing a total return in excess of the FTSE 250 (ex-Investment
Companies) Index. In pursuing this objective, the Company is exposed to a
variety of financial risks that could result in a reduction in the Company's
net assets or a reduction in the profits available for dividends.

These financial risks include market risk (comprising interest rate risk and
other price risk), liquidity risk and credit risk. The Directors' policy for
managing these risks is set out below. The Board coordinates the Company's
risk management policy. The Company has no significant exposure to foreign
exchange risk.

The objectives, policies and processes for managing the risks and the methods
used to measure the risks that are set out below, have not changed from those
applying in the comparative year.

The Company's classes of financial instruments are as follows:

·        investments in shares which are held in accordance with the
Company's investment objective;

·        short-term debtors, creditors and cash arising directly from
its operations; and

·        sterling revolving credit facilities with Scotiabank, the
purpose of which are to assist with financing the Company's operations.

(a) Market risk
The fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument held by the
Company may fluctuate because of changes in market prices. This market risk
comprises two elements: interest rate risk and other price risk. Information
to enable an evaluation of the nature and extent of these two elements of
market risk is given in parts (i) and (ii) of this note, together with
sensitivity analyses where appropriate. The Board reviews and agrees policies
for managing these risks and these policies have remained unchanged from those
applying in the comparative year. The Manager assesses the exposure to market
risk when making each investment decision and monitors the overall level of
market risk on the whole of the investment portfolio on an ongoing basis.

(i) Interest rate risk
Interest rate movements may affect the level of income receivable on cash
deposits and the interest payable on any variable rate borrowings when
interest rates are re-set.

Management of interest rate risk
Liquidity and borrowings are managed with the aim of increasing returns to
shareholders. The Board's policy is to permit gearing up to 25%, where gearing
is defined as borrowings used for investment purposes less cash, expressed as
a percentage of net assets.

Interest rate exposure
The exposure of financial assets and financial liabilities to floating
interest rates, giving cash flow interest rate risk when rates are re-set, is
shown below:

                                                         2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Exposure to floating interest rates:
 Cash at bank and in hand and current asset investments  4,680            1,961
                                                         ---------------  ---------------
 Total exposure                                          4,680            1,961
                                                         =========        =========

 

Cash balances earn interest at a floating rate based on the Sterling Overnight
Index Average.

The Company's 364 day, £30 million credit facility with The Bank of Nova
Scotia, London Branch expires on 25 February 2026. The facility is unsecured
but subject to covenants and restrictions which are customary for a facility
of this nature. Interest is payable at a rate of Sterling Overnight Interest
Average (2024: same), or its replacement reference rate, as quoted in the
market for the loan period, plus a margin, plus Mandatory Costs, which are the
lender's costs of complying with certain regulatory requirements of the Bank
of England. At 30 September 2025, the Company had drawn down £17 million.

The above year end amounts are not representative of the exposure to interest
rates during the year due to fluctuations in the level of cash and cash asset
investment balances. The maximum and minimum exposure during the year was as
follows:

                                                            2025       2024

£'000
£'000
 Minimum interest rate exposure during the year - net debt  (11,605)   (16,803)
 Maximum interest rate exposure during the year - net debt  (24,870)   (23,927)
                                                            =========  =========

 

Interest rate sensitivity
The following table illustrates the sensitivity of the return after taxation
for the year and net assets to a 1.0% (2024: 1.0%) increase or decrease in
interest rates in regards to the Company's monetary financial assets and
financial liabilities. This level of change is considered to be a reasonable
illustration based on observation of current market conditions. The
sensitivity analysis is based on the Company's monetary financial instruments
held at the accounting date with all other variables held constant.

                                           2025                              2024
 Income statement - return after taxation  1.0%             1.0%             1.0%             1.0%

increase
decrease
increase
decrease

in rate
in rate
in rate
in rate

£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
 Revenue return                            47               (47)             20               (20)
 Capital return                            -                -                -                -
                                           ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Total return after taxation               47               (47)             20               (20)
                                           =========        =========        =========        =========
 Net assets                                47               (47)             20               (20)
                                           =========        =========        =========        =========

 

In the opinion of the Directors, this sensitivity analysis may not be
representative of the Company's future exposure to interest rate changes due
to fluctuations in the level of cash balances and drawings on the credit
facility.

(ii) Other price risk
Other price risk includes changes in market prices, other than those arising
from interest rate risk, which may affect the value of investments.

Management of interest rate risk
The Board meets on at least four occasions each year to consider the asset
allocation of the portfolio and the risk associated with particular industry
sectors. The investment management team has responsibility for monitoring the
portfolio, which is selected in accordance with the Company's investment
objective and seeks to ensure that individual stocks meet an acceptable
risk/reward profile.

Market price risk exposure
The Company's total exposure to changes in market prices at 30 September
comprises the following:

                                                        2025       2024

£'000
£'000
 Investments held at fair value through profit or loss  267,652    261,421
                                                        =========  =========

 

The above data is broadly representative of the exposure to market price risk
during the year.

Concentration of exposure to market price risk
An analysis of the Company's investments is given on page 20 of the Annual
Report and Financial Statements. The Company's investments are all listed in
the United Kingdom. Accordingly there is a concentration of exposure to this
country. However it should be noted that an investment may not be entirely
exposed to the economic conditions in its country of listing.

Market price risk sensitivity
The following table illustrates the sensitivity of the return after taxation
for the year and net assets to an increase or decrease of 20% (2024: 20%) in
the fair values of the Company's investments. This level of change is
considered to be a reasonable illustration based on observation of current
market conditions. The sensitivity analysis is based on the Company's exposure
through its investments and includes the impact on the management fee, but
assumes that all other variables are held constant.

                                             2025                              2024
 Income statement - return after taxation    20%              20%              20%              20%

increase in
decrease in
increase in
decrease in

fair value
fair value
fair value
fair value

£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
 Revenue return                              (104)            104              (102)            102
 Capital return                              53,287           (53,287)         52,046           (52,046)
                                             ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
 Total return after taxation and net assets  53,183           (53,183)         51,944           (51,944)
                                             =========        =========        =========        =========
 Percentage change in net asset value        20.5             (20.5)           21.4             (21.4)
                                             =========        =========        =========        =========

 

(b) Liquidity risk
This is the risk that the Company will encounter difficulty in meeting its
obligations associated with financial liabilities that are settled by
delivering cash or another financial asset.

Management of the risk
Liquidity risk is not significant as the Company's assets comprise mainly
readily realisable securities, which can be sold to meet funding requirements
if necessary.

Liquidity risk exposure
Contractual maturities of financial liabilities, based on the earliest date on
which payment can be required are as follows:

                                                                                 2025                              2024
 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year                                  Within           Total            Within           Total

one year
£'000
one year
£'000

£'000
£'000
 Securities purchased awaiting settlement                                        443              443              1,815            1,815
 Other creditors and accruals                                                    537              537              1,070            1,070
 Other payables: drawings on the revolving credit facility (including interest)  17,895           17,895           26,625           26,625
                                                                                 ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
                                                                                 18,875           18,875           29,510           29,510
                                                                                 =========        =========        =========        =========

 

(c) Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk that the failure of the counterparty to a transaction
to discharge its obligations under that transaction could result in loss to
the Company.

Management of credit risk
This risk is not significant and is managed as follows:

Portfolio dealing
The Company invests in markets that operate a "Delivery Versus Payment"
settlement process which mitigates the risk of losing the principal of a trade
during settlement. The Manager continuously monitors dealing activity to
ensure best execution, which involves measuring various indicators including
the quality of trade settlement and incidence of failed trades. Counterparties
must be pre-approved by the Manager's credit committee.

Exposure to the custodian
The custodian of the Company's assets is HSBC Bank plc which has Long-Term
Credit Ratings of AA- with Fitch and Aa3 with Moody's. The Company's
investments are held in accounts which are segregated from the custodian's own
trading assets. If the custodian were to become insolvent, the Company's right
of ownership of its investments is clear and they are therefore protected.
However the Company's cash balances are all deposited with the custodian as
banker and held on the custodian's balance sheet. Accordingly, in accordance
with usual banking practice, the Company will rank as a general creditor to
the custodian in respect of cash balances.

Credit risk exposure
The following amounts shown in the Statement of Financial Position, represent
the maximum exposure to credit risk at the current and comparative year end.

                                                                        2025                              2024
 Current assets                                                         Balance          Maximum          Balance          Maximum

sheet
exposure
sheet
exposure

£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
 Debtors - securities sold awaiting settlement, dividends and interest  4,518            4,500            7,469            7,459
 receivable and other debtors
 Cash at bank and in hand and current asset investments                 4,680            4,680            1,961            1,961
                                                                        ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
                                                                        9,198            9,180            9,430            9,420
                                                                        =========        =========        =========        =========

 

No debtors are past their due date and none have been written down or deemed
to be impaired.

(d) Fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities
All financial assets and liabilities are either carried in the Statement of
Financial Position at fair value or the amount is a reasonable approximation
of fair value.

21. Capital management policies and procedures
The Company's objectives, policies and processes for managing capital are
unchanged from the preceding year. The Company's debt and capital structure
comprises the following:

                          2025             2024

£'000
£'000
 Debt
 Bank loan                17,000           25,000
                          ---------------  ---------------
 Equity
 Called-up share capital  9,036            9,036
 Reserves                 249,834          233,930
                          ---------------  ---------------
                          258,870          242,966
                          =========        =========
 Total debt and equity    275,870          267,966
                          =========        =========

 

The Company's capital management objectives are to ensure that it will
continue as a going concern and to maximise the capital return to its equity
shareholders through an appropriate level of gearing.

The Board's policy is to permit gearing up to 25% where gearing is defined as
borrowings used for investment purposes less cash, expressed as a percentage
of net assets. If the figure so calculated were to be negative, this would be
shown as a "net cash" position.

                                                                             2025       2024

£'000
£'000
 Borrowings used for investment purposes, less Cash at bank and in hand and  12,320     23,039
 current asset investments
 Net assets                                                                  258,870    242,966
 Gearing                                                                     4.8%       9.5%
                                                                             =========  =========

 

The Board, with the assistance of the Manager, monitors and reviews the broad
structure of the Company's capital on an ongoing basis. This review includes:

·        the planned level of gearing, which takes into account the
Manager's views on the market;

·       the need to buy back the Company's own shares for cancellation
or to hold in treasury, which takes into account the share price discount;

·        the opportunities for issues of new shares; and

·        the amount of dividends to be paid, in excess of that which
is required to be distributed.

 

Status of results announcement

2025 Financial Information

The figures and financial information for 2025 are extracted from the Annual
Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 30 September 2025 and do
not constitute the statutory accounts for that year. The Annual Report and
Financial Statements include the Report of the Independent Auditors which is
unqualified and does not contain a statement under either section 498(2) or
section 498(3) of the Companies Act 2006. The Annual Report and Financial
Statements will be delivered to the Registrar of Companies in due course.

 

2024 Financial Information

The figures and financial information for 2024 are extracted from the
published Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 30
September 2024 and do not constitute the statutory accounts for the year. The
Annual Report and Financial Statements have been delivered to the Registrar of
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unqualified and did not contain a statement under either section 498(2) or
section 498(3) of the Companies Act 2006.

 

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