BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM N-CSR

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED MANAGEMENT

INVESTMENT COMPANIES

Investment Company Act file number: 811-22774

Name of Fund: BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

Fund Address: 100 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19809

Name and address of agent for service: John M. Perlowski, Chief Executive Officer, BlackRock Multi-Sector Income             Trust, 55 East 52nd Street, New York, NY 10055

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (800) 882-0052, Option 4

Date of fiscal year end: 10/31/2014

Date of reporting period: 10/31/2014


Item 1 – Report to Stockholders


OCTOBER 31, 2014

 

 

ANNUAL REPORT

 

    LOGO

 

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

Not FDIC Insured • May Lose Value • No Bank Guarantee


Table of Contents     

 

     Page  

Shareholder Letter

    3   

Annual Report:

 

Trust Summaries

    4   

The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging

    10   

Derivative Financial Instruments

    10   
Financial Statements:  

Schedules of Investments

    11   

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

    52   

Statements of Operations

    53   

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

    54   

Statements of Cash Flows

    56   

Financial Highlights

    57   

Notes to Financial Statements

    60   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    76   

Important Tax Information

    76   

Disclosure of Investment Advisory Agreements and Sub-Advisory Agreement

    77   

Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan

    81   

Officers and Trustees

    82   

Additional Information

    85   

 

                
2    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Shareholder Letter

 

Dear Shareholder,

The final months of 2013 were generally positive for most risk assets such as equities and high yield bonds even as investors were grappling with uncertainty as to when and by how much the U.S. Federal Reserve would begin to gradually reduce (or “taper”) its asset purchase programs. Higher quality bonds and emerging market investments, however, struggled as Fed tapering became increasingly imminent. When the central bank ultimately announced its tapering plans in mid-December, equity investors reacted positively, as this action signaled the Fed’s perception of real improvement in the economy.

Most asset classes moved higher in the first half of 2014 despite the pull back in Fed stimulus. The year got off to a rocky start, however, as a number of developing economies showed signs of stress and U.S. economic data weakened. Equities declined in January while bond markets found renewed strength from investors seeking relatively safer assets. Although these headwinds persisted, equities were back on the rise in February as investors were assuaged by increasing evidence that the soft patch in U.S. data was temporary and weather-related, and forecasts pointed to growth picking up later in the year.

In the months that followed, interest rates trended lower and bond prices climbed higher in the modest growth environment. Financial markets exhibited a remarkably low level of volatility despite rising tensions in Russia and Ukraine and signs of decelerating growth in China. Equity markets were resilient as investors focused on signs of improvement in the U.S. recovery, stronger corporate earnings, increased merger-and-acquisition activity and, perhaps most importantly, reassurance from the Fed that no changes to short-term interest rates were on the horizon.

In the ongoing low-yield environment, income-seeking investors moved into equities, pushing major indices to record levels. However, as stock prices continued to rise, investors became wary of high valuations and began shedding the stocks that had experienced significant price appreciation in 2013, particularly growth and momentum names. The broad rotation into cheaper valuations resulted in the strongest performers of 2013 struggling most in 2014, and vice versa. Especially hard hit were U.S. small cap and European stocks, where earnings growth had not kept pace with market gains. In contrast, emerging markets benefited from the trend after having suffered heavy selling pressure in early 2014.

Volatility ticked up in the middle of the summer. Markets came under pressure in July as geopolitical turmoil intensified in Gaza, Iraq and Ukraine and financial troubles boiled over in Argentina and Portugal. Investors regained some confidence in August, allowing markets to rebound briefly amid renewed comfort that the Fed would continue to keep rates low and hopes that the European Central Bank would increase stimulus. However, markets swiftly reversed in September as improving U.S. economic indicators raised concerns that the Fed would increase short-term interest rates sooner than previously anticipated. Global credit markets tightened as the U.S. dollar strengthened, ultimately putting a strain on investor flows. High valuations combined with impending rate hikes stoked increasing volatility in financial markets. Escalating geopolitical risks further fueled the fire. The U.S. renewed its involvement in Iraq and the European Union imposed additional sanctions against Russia, while Scottish voters contemplated separating from the United Kingdom.

U.S. risk assets made a comeback in October while other developed markets continued their descent. This divergence in market performance moved in tandem with economic momentum and central bank policy. As the U.S. economy continued to strengthen, the need for monetary policy accommodation diminished. Meanwhile, economies in other parts of the developed world decelerated and central banks in Europe and Japan implemented aggressive measures to stimulate growth.

U.S. large cap stocks were the strongest performers for the six- and 12-month periods ended October 31, 2014. U.S. small caps experienced significantly higher volatility than large caps, but nonetheless generated positive returns. International developed market equities broadly declined while emerging markets posted modest gains. Most fixed income assets produced positive results as rates generally fell. Tax-exempt municipal bonds benefited from a favorable supply-and-demand environment. Short-term interest rates remained near zero, keeping yields on money market securities close to historic lows.

At BlackRock, we believe investors need to think globally, extend their scope across a broad array of asset classes and be prepared to move freely as market conditions change over time. We encourage you to talk with your financial advisor and visit blackrock.com for further insight about investing in today’s markets.

Sincerely,

 

LOGO

Rob Kapito

President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC

 

LOGO

U.S. financial markets generally outperformed other parts of the world given stronger economic growth and corporate earnings, the continuation of low interest rates and the appeal of relative stability amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.

Rob Kapito

President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC

 

Total Returns as of October 31, 2014  
    6-month     12-month  

U.S. large cap equities (S&P 500® Index)

    8.22     17.27

U.S. small cap equities
(Russell 2000® Index)

    4.83        8.06   

International equities
(MSCI Europe, Australasia,
Far East Index)

    (4.83     (0.60

Emerging market equities (MSCI Emerging
Markets Index)

    3.74        0.64   

3-month Treasury bills
(BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index)

    0.02        0.05   

U.S. Treasury securities
(BofA Merrill Lynch 10-Year U.S. Treasury Index)

    4.29        5.21   

U.S. investment-grade
bonds (Barclays
U.S. Aggregate Bond Index)

    2.35        4.14   

Tax-exempt municipal
bonds (S&P Municipal
Bond Index)

    3.54        7.94   

U.S. high yield bonds

(Barclays U.S.
Corporate High Yield 2%
Issuer Capped Index)

    1.05        5.82   
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance is shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index.    

 

                
   THIS PAGE NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT       3


Trust Summary as of October 31, 2014    BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust

 

Trust Overview

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust’s (BTZ) (the “Trust”) investment objective is to provide current income, current gains and capital appreciation. The Trust seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its assets in credit-related securities, including, but not limited to, investment grade corporate bonds, high yield bonds (commonly referred to as “junk” bonds), bank loans, preferred securities or convertible bonds or derivatives with economic characteristics similar to these credit-related securities. The Trust may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.

No assurance can be given that the Trust’s investment objective will be achieved.

 

Portfolio Management Commentary

 

How did the Trust perform?

 

Ÿ  

For the 12-month period ended October 31, 2014, the Trust returned 12.18% based on market price and 10.11% based on NAV. For the same period, the closed-end Lipper Corporate BBB-Rated Debt Trusts (Leveraged) category posted an average return of 7.60% based on market price and 7.97% based on NAV. All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and/or distributions. The Trust’s discount to NAV, which narrowed during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. The following discussion relates to performance based on NAV.

What factors influenced performance?

 

Ÿ  

The Trust’s favorable view on credit (corporate debt) prompted the Trust to maintain leverage near the high end of the permissible range, which aided performance at a time of positive market performance. A preference for companies generating cash flows sourced from the U.S. market also proved beneficial, as did holding large allocations to the higher-yielding credit sectors such as high yield bonds, subordinated financials and lower-quality investment grade bonds. The Trust’s security selection in the industrials sector, along with its preference for capital trust securities in the financial sector, helped performance within the investment grade space. A yield curve-flattening bias further aided performance in March of 2014, as longer-term rates declined more than short-term rates.

 

Ÿ  

There were no material detractors from the Trust’s performance during the period.

Describe recent portfolio activity.

 

Ÿ  

The Trust’s allocations to investment grade credit, high yield bonds and bank capital securities stayed largely unchanged based on the investment advisor’s continued positive outlook for corporate credit. Within the investment grade space, the Trust continued to favor financials and capital trust securities over industrials given the rising event risk in the industrial sector. The Trust modestly reduced leverage and tactically adjusted its duration positioning during the period. The Trust also looked for opportunities to increase its liquidity and overall credit quality where appropriate.

Describe portfolio positioning at period end.

 

Ÿ  

As of period end, the Trust maintained its allocations to high yield debt and financials, with a preference for capital trust securities, and it retained a bias toward companies with U.S.-sourced cash flows.

 

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

 

Trust Information     

Symbol on New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”)

  BTZ

Initial Offering Date

  December 27, 2006

Current Distribution Rate on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2014 ($13.54)1

  7.13%

Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share2

  $0.0805

Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share2

  $0.9660

Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20143

  31%

 

  1   

Current Distribution Rate on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. The current distribution rate consists of income, net realized gains and/or a return of capital. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

 

  2   

The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. A portion of the distribution may be deemed a return of capital or net realized gain.

 

  3   

Represents reverse repurchase agreements as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Trust (including any assets attributable to any borrowings) minus the sum of liabilities (other than borrowings representing financial leverage). For a discussion of leveraging techniques utilized by the Trust, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 10.

 

                
4    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


     BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust

 

 

Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary

 

           
      10/31/14      10/31/13      Change      High      Low  

Market Price

     $13.54         $12.97         4.39%         $13.83         $12.51   

Net Asset Value

     $15.36         $14.99         2.47%         $15.64         $14.75   

 

Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years

 

LOGO

 

Overview of the Trust’s Long-Term Investments
Portfolio Composition   10/31/14     10/31/13  

Corporate Bonds

    78     84

Preferred Securities

    16        14   

Asset-Backed Securities

    3        1   

U.S. Treasury Obligations

    1          

Municipal Bonds

    1        1   

Foreign Agency Obligations

    1          
Credit Quality Allocation1   10/31/14     10/31/132  

AAA/Aaa3

    2       

AA/Aa

    2        3

A

    17        17   

BBB/Baa

    45        44   

BB/Ba

    21        21   

B

    9        12   

CCC/Caa

    2        1   

N/R

    2        2   

 

  1   

For financial reporting purposes, credit quality ratings shown above reflect the highest rating assigned by either Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) or Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”) if ratings differ. These rating agencies are independent, nationally recognized statistical rating organizations and are widely used. Investment grade ratings are credit ratings of BBB/Baa or higher. Below investment grade ratings are credit ratings of BB/Ba or lower. Investments designated N/R are not rated by either rating agency. Unrated investments do not necessarily indicate low credit quality. Credit quality ratings are subject to change.

 

  2   

Information has been revised to conform to current year presentation.

 

  3   

Includes U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Securities and/or U.S. Treasury Obligations, which were deemed AAA by the investment advisor.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    5


Trust Summary as of October 31, 2014    BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust

 

Trust Overview

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust’s (BGT) (the “Trust”) primary investment objective is to provide a high level of current income. The Trust’s secondary investment objective is to seek the preservation of capital. The Trust seeks to achieve its investment objectives by investing primarily, under normal conditions, at least 80% of its assets in floating and variable rate instruments of U.S. and non-U.S. issuers, including a substantial portion of its assets in global floating and variable rate securities including senior secured floating rate loans made to corporate and other business entities. Under normal market conditions, the Trust expects that the average effective duration of its portfolio will be no more than 1.5 years. The Trust may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.

No assurance can be given that the Trust’s investment objectives will be achieved.

 

Portfolio Management Commentary

 

How did the Trust perform?

 

Ÿ  

For the 12-month period ended October 31, 2014, the Trust returned (0.89)% based on market price and 4.60% based on NAV. For the same period, the closed-end Lipper Loan Participation Funds category posted an average return of (2.08)% based on market price and 4.07% based on NAV. All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends. The Trust’s discount to NAV, which widened during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. The following discussion relates to performance based on NAV.

What factors influenced performance?

 

Ÿ  

Exposure to floating rate loan interests (i.e. bank loans) rated in the B- and CCC quality range contributed positively to results. On an industry level, positioning in the gaming, retailers and wirelines sectors aided performance. Tactical exposure to fixed rate high yield corporate bonds also helped results given the outperformance of the asset class relative to bank loans during the period.

 

Ÿ  

Conversely, positioning in loan assets within the electric utility and media & entertainment sectors detracted from performance. Exposure to credit default swaps on individual names within the gaming sector also dampened returns.

Describe recent portfolio activity.

 

Ÿ  

Throughout the 12-month period, the Trust maintained its focus on the higher quality segments of the loan market in terms of loan structure, liquidity and overall credit quality. The Trust modestly decreased its exposure to fixed-coupon high yield bonds and modestly increased its exposure to CCC-rated loans during the period. Loan prices declined towards the end of the period, presenting improved risk/reward profiles and more attractive entry points for purchases. The Trust continued to concentrate its investments in strong companies with stable cash flows and backed by high quality assets.

Describe portfolio positioning at period end.

 

Ÿ  

At period end, the Trust held 93% of its total portfolio in floating rate loan interests (bank loans), with the remainder in corporate bonds, common stocks and convertible bonds. The Trust’s highest-conviction holdings included Level 3 Financing, Inc., Reynolds Group Issuer, Inc. and Alliance Boots Holdings Ltd.

 

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

 

Trust Information

Symbol on NYSE

   BGT

Initial Offering Date

   August 30, 2004

Current Distribution Rate on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2014 ($13.18)1

   5.95%

Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share2

   $0.0653

Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share2

   $0.7836

Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20143

   30%

 

  1   

Current Distribution Rate on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. The current distribution rate consists of income, net realized gains and/or a return of capital. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

 

  2   

The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. A portion of the distribution may be deemed a return of capital or net realized gain.

 

  3   

Represents bank borrowings outstanding as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Trust (including any assets attributable to any borrowings) minus the sum of liabilities (other than borrowings representing financial leverage). For a discussion of leveraging techniques utilized by the Trust, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 10.

 

                
6    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


     BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust

 

 

Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary                              

 

      10/31/14      10/31/13      Change     High      Low  

Market Price

   $ 13.18       $ 14.12         (6.66 )%    $ 14.47       $ 13.06   

Net Asset Value

   $ 14.57       $ 14.79         (1.49 )%    $ 14.92       $ 14.29   

 

Market Price and Net Asset Value History For the Past Five Years

 

LOGO

 

Overview of the Trust’s Long-Term Investments

The following charts show the portfolio composition of the Trust’s long-term investments and credit quality allocations of the Trust’s corporate bonds:

Portfolio Composition    10/31/14     10/31/13  

Floating Rate Loan Interests

     93     83

Corporate Bonds

     4        13   

Asset-Backed Securities

     2        3   

Common Stocks

     1        1   

 

Credit Quality Allocation1    10/31/14     10/31/132  

BBB/Baa

     7     7

BB/Ba

     38        36   

B

     43        49   

CCC/Caa

     4        3   

N/R

     8        5   

 

  1   

For financial reporting purposes, credit quality ratings shown above reflect the highest rating assigned by either S&P’s or Moody’s if ratings differ. These rating agencies are independent, nationally recognized statistical rating organizations and are widely used. Investment grade ratings are credit ratings of BBB/Baa or higher. Below investment grade ratings are credit ratings of BB/Ba or lower. Investments designated N/R are not rated by either rating agency. Unrated investments do not necessarily indicate low credit quality. Credit quality ratings are subject to change.

 

  2   

Information has been revised to conform to current year presentation.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    7


Trust Summary as of October 31, 2014    BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust

 

Trust Overview

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust’s (BIT) (the “Trust”) primary investment objective is to seek high current income, with a secondary objective of capital appreciation. The Trust seeks to achieve its investment objectives by investing, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its assets in loan and debt instruments and other investments with similar economic characteristics. The Trust may invest directly in such securities or synthetically through the use of derivatives.

No assurance can be given that the Trust’s investment objective will be achieved.

 

Portfolio Management Commentary

 

How did the Trust perform?

 

Ÿ  

For the 12-month period ended October 31, 2014, the Trust returned 12.91% based on market price and 13.40% based on NAV. For the same period, the closed-end Lipper General Bond Funds category posted an average return of 8.97% based on market price and 9.49% based on NAV. All returns reflect reinvestment of dividends. The Trust’s discount to NAV, which widened slightly during the period, accounts for the difference between performance based on price and performance based on NAV. The following discussion relates to performance based on NAV.

What factors influenced performance?

 

Ÿ  

The largest contributions to the Trust’s positive performance came from exposure to high yield corporate bonds and asset-backed securities (“ABS”), in particular positions in home equity ABS. The Trust’s holdings in non-agency mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) and capital securities also contributed to returns. Other positive contributions came from the Trust’s positions in commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and exposure to non-U.S. dollar securities.

 

Ÿ  

The main detractor from the Trust’s performance was its modest use of derivative strategies, in particular interest rate futures.

Describe recent portfolio activity.

 

Ÿ  

To help balance the Trust’s inherent bias towards a longer duration (sensitivity to interest rate movements) and significant concentration in high yield corporate bonds, the allocation to non-agency MBS and CMBS was increased during the second half of the reporting period. This was based on continued improvement in the real estate market and favorable supply/demand dynamics, particularly within the CMBS sector.

 

Ÿ  

The Trust maintained a high level of leverage throughout the period in order to maximize its income generation potential. Given the low yield environment over the period, the Trust’s distribution yield remained stable.

Describe portfolio positioning at period end.

 

Ÿ  

As of period end, the Trust was positioned to benefit from a continuation of a positive market environment for risk assets, with a high exposure to spread sectors such as high yield debt, as well as non-agency MBS and asset-backed securities.

 

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

 

Trust Information     

Symbol on NYSE

  BIT

Initial Offering Date

  February 27, 2013

Current Distribution Rate on Closing Market Price as of October 31, 2014 ($17.79)1

  7.87%

Current Monthly Distribution per Common Share2

  $0.1167

Current Annualized Distribution per Common Share2

  $1.4004

Economic Leverage as of October 31, 20143

  48%

 

  1   

Current Distribution Rate on closing market price is calculated by dividing the current annualized distribution per share by the closing market price. The current distribution rate consists of income, net realized gains and/or a return of capital. See the financial highlights for the actual sources and character of distributions. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

 

  2   

The distribution rate is not constant and is subject to change. A portion of the distribution may be deemed a return of capital or net realized gain.

 

  3   

Represents reverse repurchase agreements as a percentage of total managed assets, which is the total assets of the Trust (including any assets attributable to any borrowings) minus the sum of liabilities (other than borrowings representing financial leverage). For a discussion of leveraging techniques utilized by the Trust, please see The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging on page 10.

 

                
8    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


     BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust

 

 

Market Price and Net Asset Value Per Share Summary                              

 

      10/31/14      10/31/13      Change     High      Low  

Market Price

   $ 17.79       $ 17.04         4.40   $ 18.67       $ 16.39   

Net Asset Value

   $ 19.87       $ 18.95         4.85   $ 20.35       $ 18.81   

 

Market Price and Net Asset Value History Since Inception

 

LOGO

 

  1   

Commencement of operations.

 

Overview of the Trust’s Long-Term Investments
Portfolio Composition   10/31/14     10/31/13  

Corporate Bonds

    35     42

Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

    29        25   

Asset-Backed Securities

    16        18   

Preferred Securities

    14        9   

Floating Rate Loan Interests

    5        5   

Foreign Agency Obligations

    1        1   

 

Credit Quality Allocation1   10/31/14     10/31/132  

AAA/Aaa

           1

AA/Aa

           1   

A

    3     4   

BBB/Baa

    18        18   

BB/Ba

    25        23   

B

    17        20   

CCC/Caa

    21        22   

CC/Ca

    5        2   

D

           2   

N/R

    11        7   

 

  1   

For financial reporting purposes, credit quality ratings shown above reflect the highest rating assigned by either S&P’s or Moody’s if ratings differ. These rating agencies are independent, nationally recognized statistical rating organizations and are widely used. Investment grade ratings are credit ratings of BBB/Baa or higher. Below investment grade ratings are credit ratings of BB/Ba or lower. Investments designated N/R are not rated by either rating agency. Unrated investments do not necessarily indicate low credit quality. Credit quality ratings are subject to change.

 

  2   

Information has been revised to conform to current year presentation.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    9


The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging     

 

The Trusts may utilize leverage to seek to enhance the yield and net asset value (“NAV”) of their common shares (“Common Shares”). However, these objectives cannot be achieved in all interest rate environments.

In general, the concept of leveraging is based on the premise that the financing cost of leverage, which will be based on short-term interest rates, will normally be lower than the income earned by a Trust on its longer-term portfolio investments purchased with the proceeds from leverage. To the extent that the total assets of each Trust (including the assets obtained from leverage) are invested in higher-yielding portfolio investments, the Trust’s shareholders will benefit from the incremental net income. The interest earned on securities purchased with the proceeds from leverage is paid to shareholders in the form of dividends, and the value of these portfolio holdings is reflected in the per share NAV.

To illustrate these concepts, assume a Trust’s capitalization is $100 million and it utilizes leverage for an additional $30 million, creating a total value of $130 million available for investment in longer-term income securities. If prevailing short-term interest rates are 3% and longer-term interest rates are 6%, the yield curve has a strongly positive slope. In this case, the Trust’s financing costs on the $30 million of proceeds obtained from leverage are based on the lower short-term interest rates. At the same time, the securities purchased by the Trust with the proceeds from leverage earn income based on longer-term interest rates. In this case, the Trust’s financing cost of leverage is significantly lower than the income earned on the Trust’s longer-term investments acquired from such leverage proceeds, and therefore the holders of Common Shares (“Common Shareholders”) are the beneficiaries of the incremental net income.

However, in order to benefit shareholders, the return on assets purchased with leverage proceeds must exceed the ongoing costs associated with the leverage. If interest and other costs of leverage exceed the Trust’s return on assets purchased with leverage proceeds, income to shareholders will be lower than if the Trust had not used leverage. Furthermore, the value of the Trust’s portfolio investments generally varies inversely with the direction of long-term interest rates, although other factors can influence the value of portfolio investments. In contrast, the value of the Trust’s obligations under its leverage arrangement generally does not fluctuate in relation to interest rates. As a result, changes in interest rates can influence the Trust’s NAVs positively or negatively. Changes in the future direction of interest rates are very difficult to predict accurately, and there is no assurance that a Trust’s intended leveraging strategy will be successful.

Leverage also will generally cause greater changes in the Trusts’ NAVs, market prices and dividend rates than comparable portfolios without leverage. In a declining market, leverage is likely to cause a greater decline in the net asset value and market price of a Trust’s shares than if the Trust were not leveraged. In addition, the Trust may be required to sell portfolio securities at inopportune times or at distressed values in order to comply with regulatory requirements applicable to the use of leverage or as required by the terms of leverage instruments, which may cause the Trust to incur losses. The use of leverage may limit the Trust’s ability to invest in certain types of securities or use certain types of hedging strategies. The Trust will incur expenses in connection with the use of leverage, all of which are borne by shareholders and may reduce income to the shares.

Each Trust may utilize leverage through a credit facility or reverse repurchase agreements as described in the Notes to Financial Statements.

Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), each Trust is permitted to issue debt up to 33 1/3% of their total managed assets. A Trust may voluntarily elect to limit its leverage to less than the maximum amount permitted under the 1940 Act. In addition, a Trust may also be subject to certain asset coverage, leverage or portfolio composition requirements imposed by its credit facility, which may be more stringent than those imposed by the 1940 Act.

If a Trust segregates or designates on its books and records cash or liquid assets having values not less than the value of the Trust’s obligations under the reverse repurchase agreement (including accrued interest), then such transaction will not be considered a senior security and will not be subject to the foregoing limitations and requirements under the 1940 Act.

 

Derivative Financial Instruments     

 

The Trusts may invest in various derivative financial instruments which may constitute forms of economic leverage. Such derivative financial instruments are used to obtain exposure to a security, index and/or market without owning or taking physical custody of securities or to hedge market, equity, credit, interest rate and/or foreign currency exchange rate risks. Derivative financial instruments involve risks, including the imperfect correlation between the value of a derivative financial instrument and the underlying asset, possible default of the counterparty to the transaction or illiquidity of the derivative financial instrument. The Trusts’ ability to use a derivative financial instrument successfully depends on the investment advisor’s ability to predict pertinent market movements accurately, which cannot be assured. The use of derivative financial instruments may result in losses greater than if they had not been used, may require a Trust to sell or purchase portfolio investments at inopportune times or for distressed values, may limit the amount of appreciation a Trust can realize on an investment, may result in lower distributions paid to shareholders or may cause a Trust to hold an investment that it might otherwise sell. The Trusts’ investments in these instruments are discussed in detail in the Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
10    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments October 31, 2014

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Asset-Backed Securities (a)           Par  
(000)
    Value  

ACAS CLO Ltd., Series 2014-1A, Class C, 3.13%, 7/18/26 (b)

     USD        750      $ 712,343   

Adams Mill CLO Ltd., Series 2014-1A, Class D1, 3.70%, 7/15/26 (b)

       1,250        1,182,875   

ALM XIV Ltd., Series 2014-14A (b):

      

Class B, 3.18%, 7/28/26

       5,000        4,807,082   

Class C, 3.68%, 7/28/26

       5,000        4,596,620   

Apidos CLO XVII, Series 2014-17A, Class B, 3.08%, 4/17/26 (b)

       1,000        961,730   

Apidos CLO XVIII, Series 2014-18A, Class C, 3.88%, 7/22/26 (b)

       1,800        1,687,645   

Atlas Senior Loan Fund V Ltd., Series 2014-1A (b):

      

Class C, 3.25%, 7/16/26

       1,000        956,238   

Class D, 3.70%, 7/16/26

       2,000        1,800,025   

Atlas Senior Loan Fund VI Ltd., Series 2014-6A, Class D, 3.96%, 10/15/26 (b)

       3,000        2,737,938   

Atrium CDO Corp., Series 5A, Class A4, 0.62%, 7/20/20 (b)

       9,000        8,599,601   

Babson CLO Ltd., Series 2014-3A (b)(c):

      

Class C1, 3.23%, 1/15/26

       1,500        1,461,750   

Class D1, 3.73%, 1/15/26

       1,000        941,400   

Battalion CLO VII Ltd., Series 2014-7A, Class C,
4.13%, 10/17/26 (b)(c)

       1,000        943,100   

Benefit Street Partners CLO V Ltd.,
Series 2014-VA, Class D, 3.55%, 10/20/26 (b)

       1,500        1,413,750   

BlueMountain CLO Ltd., Series 2011-1A, Class D, 4.23%, 8/16/22 (b)

       2,000        1,994,817   

CIFC Funding Ltd., Series 2014-3A (b):

      

Class C1, 2.95%, 7/22/26

       1,500        1,425,287   

Class D, 3.55%, 7/22/26

       1,400        1,271,262   

Dryden 34 Senior Loan Fund, Series 2014-34A, Class C, 3.09%, 10/15/26 (b)

       750        722,444   

Galaxy CLO Ltd., Series 2014-18A, Class C1, 3.23%, 10/15/26 (b)

       1,750        1,696,280   

GoldenTree Loan Opportunities IX Ltd.,
Series 2014-9A, Class D,
3.82%, 10/29/26 (b)(c)

       1,000        942,500   

Jamestown CLO Ltd., Series 2014-4A, Class C, 3.73%, 7/15/26 (b)

       3,250        2,999,614   

Limerock CLO III LLC, Series 2014-3A, Class C, 3.83%, 10/20/26 (b)(c)

       1,000        935,625   

Madison Park Funding Ltd. (b):

      

Series 2012-10A, Class D, 4.48%, 1/20/25

       3,000        2,975,959   

Series 2012-8AR, Class CR, 3.03%, 4/22/22

       1,350        1,339,902   

Series 2012-8AR, Class DR, 4.08%, 4/22/22

       1,500        1,472,820   

Series 2014-14A, Class D, 3.83%, 7/20/26

       2,000        1,891,185   

Octagon Investment Partners XX Ltd.,
Series 2014-1A (b):

      

Class C, 3.04%, 8/12/26

       1,000        953,133   

Class D, 3.89%, 8/12/26

       900        838,933   

Octagon Loan Funding Ltd., Series 2014-1A, Class D, 3.85%, 11/18/26 (b)

       1,500        1,397,489   

OZLM VII Ltd., Series 2014-7A, Class C, 3.86%, 7/17/26 (b)

       1,500        1,377,170   

OZLM VIII Ltd., Series 2014-8A (b):

      

Class B, 3.28%, 10/17/26

       900        863,970   

Class C, 3.78%, 10/17/26

       850        775,429   

Regatta IV Funding Ltd., Series 2014-1A (b):

      

Class C, 3.18%, 7/25/26

       1,500        1,442,005   

Class D, 3.77%, 7/25/26

       1,000        913,614   

 

Asset-Backed Securities (a)           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Regatta V Funding Ltd., Series 2014-1A (b)(c):

      

Class B, 3.23%, 10/25/26

     USD        1,000      $ 967,820   

Class C, 3.68%, 10/25/26

       1,000        925,390   

Silver Spring CLO Ltd., Series 2014-1A, Class D, 3.72%, 10/15/26 (b)

       750        677,334   

SLM Student Loan Trust, Series 2004-B, Class A2, 0.43%, 6/15/21

       2,973        2,957,725   

Symphony CLO XV Ltd., Series 2014-15A (b)(c):

      

Class C, 3.43%, 10/17/26

       1,500        1,456,800   

Class D, 3.98%, 10/17/26

       1,000        941,300   

Venture CLO Ltd. (b):

      

Series 2013-13A, Class D, 3.78%, 6/10/25

       800        734,539   

Series 2014-18A, Class C, 3.39%, 10/15/26

       800        771,429   

Voya CLO Ltd., Series 2014-3A, Class C, 3.83%, 7/25/26 (b)

       1,250        1,166,949   

WhiteHorse IX Ltd., Series 2014-9A, Class C, 2.92%, 7/17/26 (b)

             1,500        1,406,728   
Total Asset-Backed Securities — 4.4%                      73,037,549   
      
                          
Corporate Bonds                      

Aerospace & Defense — 0.7%

      

B/E Aerospace, Inc., 5.25%, 4/01/22

       1,306        1,452,925   

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc.:

      

6.88%, 3/15/18

       1,430        1,494,350   

7.13%, 3/15/21

       2,000        2,150,000   

LSB Industries, Inc., 7.75%, 8/01/19

       315        336,168   

TransDigm, Inc.:

      

6.00%, 7/15/22

       4,585        4,636,581   

6.50%, 7/15/24

       2,140        2,204,200   
      

 

 

 
                       12,274,224   

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.1%

      

XPO Logistics, Inc., 7.88%, 9/01/19 (b)

             1,115        1,167,963   

Airlines — 0.9%

      

Continental Airlines Pass-Through Trust:

      

Series 2009-2, Class B, 9.25%, 11/10/18

       2,755        3,113,017   

Series 2012-3, Class C, 6.13%, 4/29/18

       2,040        2,152,200   

Delta Air Lines Pass-Through Trust, Series 2002-1, Class G-1, 6.72%, 7/02/24

       3,357        3,877,502   

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust, Series 2014-1, Class B, 4.75%, 10/11/23

       4,200        4,184,250   

Virgin Australia Trust, Series 2013-1, Class B, 6.00%, 4/23/22 (b)

       1,694        1,753,488   
      

 

 

 
                       15,080,457   

Auto Components — 1.4%

      

Delphi Corp., 6.13%, 5/15/21

       870        946,125   

Icahn Enterprises LP/Icahn Enterprises Finance Corp.:

      

3.50%, 3/15/17

       265        263,675   

4.88%, 3/15/19

       3,950        4,019,125   

6.00%, 8/01/20

       3,108        3,263,400   

5.88%, 2/01/22

       3,816        3,920,940   

Schaeffler Finance BV, 4.75%, 5/15/21 (b)

       2,470        2,463,825   

Schaeffler Holding Finance BV (b)(d):

      

6.25%, (6.25% Cash) 11/15/19

       1,112        1,150,920   

6.75%, (6.75% Cash) 11/15/22

       2,417        2,568,063   

 

Portfolio Abbreviations

 

ADS    American Depositary Shares      COP    Certificates of Participation    OTC    Over-the-Counter
ARB    Airport Revenue Bonds      DIP    Debtor-In-Possession    PIK    Payment-In-Kind
ARC    Auction Rate Certificates      EUR    Euro    RB    Revenue Bonds
BRL    Brazilian Real      GBP    British Pound    REMIC    Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit
BROIS    Brazilian Overnight Indexed Swap      LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate    USD    U.S. Dollar
CAD    Canadian Dollar      MXIBOR    Mexican Interbank Offered Rate    ZAR    South African Rand
CLO    Collateralized Loan Obligation      MXN    Mexican Peso      

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    11


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Auto Components (concluded)

      

TRW Automotive, Inc. (b):

      

4.50%, 3/01/21

     USD        2,400      $ 2,412,000   

4.45%, 12/01/23

       2,600        2,600,000   
      

 

 

 
                       23,608,073   

Automobiles — 0.6%

      

Chrysler Group LLC/CG Co-Issuer, Inc., 8.25%, 6/15/21

       2,272        2,538,960   

Ford Motor Co., 7.45%, 7/16/31

       3,660        4,901,907   

General Motors Co.:

      

4.88%, 10/02/23

       1,875        2,008,594   

6.25%, 10/02/43

       940        1,118,600   
      

 

 

 
                       10,568,061   

Banks — 5.4%

      

Associated Banc-Corp, 5.13%, 3/28/16 (e)

       7,430        7,825,521   

CIT Group, Inc.:

      

4.25%, 8/15/17

       4,600        4,726,500   

5.25%, 3/15/18

       4,030        4,251,650   

6.63%, 4/01/18 (b)

       335        366,825   

5.50%, 2/15/19 (b)

       5,147        5,491,206   

City National Corp., 5.25%, 9/15/20 (e)

       2,900        3,230,295   

Cooperatieve Centrale Raiffeisen-Boerenleenbank BA, 3.95%, 11/09/22 (e)

       3,775        3,837,299   

Credit Suisse AG, 6.50%, 8/08/23 (b)

       12,000        13,230,000   

Credit Suisse Group AG, 7.50% (a)(b)(f)

       3,250        3,454,100   

Discover Bank, 8.70%, 11/18/19

       748        928,940   

Fifth Third Bancorp, 5.10% (a)(f)

       5,000        4,725,000   

HSBC Finance Corp., 6.68%, 1/15/21 (e)

       5,150        6,069,187   

Regions Financial Corp., 5.75%, 6/15/15

       6,110        6,284,251   

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC, 6.00%, 12/19/23

       10,080        10,848,802   

Santander Holdings USA, Inc., 3.00%, 9/24/15

       3,750        3,813,304   

Wells Fargo & Co. (e):

      

3.45%, 2/13/23

       2,325        2,321,608   

4.13%, 8/15/23

       4,000        4,172,008   

5.61%, 1/15/44

       4,119        4,718,595   
      

 

 

 
                       90,295,091   

Building Products — 0.3%

      

Building Materials Corp. of America (b):

      

6.75%, 5/01/21

       2,700        2,895,750   

5.38%, 11/15/24 (c)

       1,965        1,969,913   
      

 

 

 
                       4,865,663   

Cable Television Services — 0.1%

  

SBA Communications Corp., 4.88%, 7/15/22 (b)

             1,445        1,423,144   

Capital Markets — 2.9%

      

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (e):

      

6.25%, 9/01/17

       625        700,564   

7.50%, 2/15/19

       5,165        6,167,191   

5.25%, 7/27/21

       1,175        1,309,922   

5.75%, 1/24/22

       5,500        6,336,176   

6.25%, 2/01/41

       15,000        18,587,355   

Morgan Stanley (e):

      

5.63%, 9/23/19

       6,770        7,668,880   

5.50%, 7/28/21

       2,695        3,072,780   

UBS AG, 5.88%, 7/15/16 (e)

       3,450        3,721,163   
      

 

 

 
                       47,564,031   

Chemicals — 1.9%

      

Ashland, Inc., 3.88%, 4/15/18

       1,745        1,773,356   

Axalta Coating Systems US Holdings, Inc./Axalta Coating Systems Dutch Holding BV, 7.38%, 5/01/21 (b)

       617        667,903   

Axiall Corp., 4.88%, 5/15/23

       367        355,990   

Basell Finance Co. BV, 8.10%, 3/15/27 (b)

       6,000        8,044,020   

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Chemicals (concluded)

      

Celanese US Holdings LLC, 5.88%, 6/15/21

     USD        2,615      $ 2,837,275   

CF Industries, Inc., 5.38%, 3/15/44

       2,500        2,659,200   

Chemtura Corp., 5.75%, 7/15/21

       632        630,420   

Eagle Spinco, Inc., 4.63%, 2/15/21

       2,370        2,298,900   

Huntsman International LLC:

      

4.88%, 11/15/20

       775        780,812   

8.63%, 3/15/21

       2,000        2,180,000   

5.13%, 11/15/22 (b)(c)

       2,495        2,510,594   

Ineos Finance PLC, 8.38%, 2/15/19 (b)

       255        273,488   

NOVA Chemicals Corp. (b):

      

5.25%, 8/01/23

       2,277        2,379,465   

5.00%, 5/01/25

       905        934,412   

Rockwood Specialties Group, Inc., 4.63%, 10/15/20

       3,275        3,419,100   
      

 

 

 
                       31,744,935   

Commercial Services & Supplies — 3.0%

  

ADS Waste Holdings, Inc., 8.25%, 10/01/20

       1,003        1,050,642   

Aviation Capital Group Corp. (b):

      

7.13%, 10/15/20 (e)

       31,000        35,632,578   

6.75%, 4/06/21

       7,850        8,949,000   

Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc., 8.50%, 12/01/21 (b)

       591        588,784   

Covanta Holding Corp., 6.38%, 10/01/22

       2,245        2,390,925   

Mobile Mini, Inc., 7.88%, 12/01/20

       930        1,002,075   
      

 

 

 
                       49,614,004   

Communications Equipment — 0.8%

  

Brocade Communications Systems, Inc., 6.88%, 1/15/20

       8,695        9,021,062   

CommScope, Inc. (b):

      

5.00%, 6/15/21

       527        525,683   

5.50%, 6/15/24

       564        570,345   

Zayo Group LLC/Zayo Capital, Inc., 8.13%, 1/01/20

       2,400        2,562,000   
      

 

 

 
                       12,679,090   

Construction & Engineering — 0.3%

  

AECOM Technology Corp. (b):

      

5.75%, 10/15/22

       473        497,833   

5.88%, 10/15/24

       2,311        2,443,882   

BlueLine Rental Finance Corp.,
7.00%, 2/01/19 (b)

       413        434,683   

Safway Group Holding LLC/Safway Finance Corp., 7.00%, 5/15/18 (b)

       673        694,872   

Weekley Homes LLC/Weekley Finance Corp., 6.00%, 2/01/23

       825        808,500   
      

 

 

 
                       4,879,770   

Construction Materials — 1.1%

  

Allegion US Holding Co., Inc., 5.75%, 10/01/21

       1,907        1,997,583   

HD Supply, Inc.:

      

8.13%, 4/15/19

       7,300        7,884,000   

11.00%, 4/15/20

       2,740        3,144,150   

7.50%, 7/15/20

       2,905        3,093,825   

Vulcan Materials Co., 7.00%, 6/15/18

       1,380        1,535,250   
      

 

 

 
                       17,654,808   

Consumer Finance — 3.4%

  

Ally Financial, Inc.:

      

8.30%, 2/12/15

       5,290        5,375,963   

8.00%, 11/01/31

       6,078        7,734,771   

Capital One Bank USA NA, 3.38%, 2/15/23 (e)

       11,610        11,497,894   

Countrywide Financial Corp., 6.25%, 5/15/16 (e)

       8,069        8,667,994   

Discover Financial Services, 3.85%, 11/21/22

       3,252        3,290,165   

Experian Finance PLC, 2.38%, 6/15/17 (b)(e)

       2,550        2,593,531   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
12    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Consumer Finance (concluded)

  

Navient Corp.:

      

3.88%, 9/10/15

     USD        5,000      $ 5,050,000   

6.25%, 1/25/16

       11,620        12,084,800   
      

 

 

 
                       56,295,118   

Containers & Packaging — 1.2%

  

Ardagh Packaging Finance PLC/Ardagh Holdings USA, Inc., 6.25%, 1/31/19 (b)

       906        912,795   

Ball Corp., 6.75%, 9/15/20

       7,360        7,709,600   

Beverage Packaging Holdings Luxembourg II SA, 5.63%, 12/15/16 (b)

       3,944        3,953,860   

Crown Americas LLC/Crown Americas Capital Corp. III, 6.25%, 2/01/21

       3,128        3,292,220   

Pactiv LLC, 7.95%, 12/15/25

       163        170,742   

Sealed Air Corp. (b):

      

6.50%, 12/01/20

       2,330        2,563,000   

8.38%, 9/15/21

       700        792,750   
      

 

 

 
                       19,394,967   

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.3%

  

Service Corp. International, 4.50%, 11/15/20

             4,382        4,294,360   

Diversified Financial Services — 10.1%

      

Aircastle Ltd., 6.25%, 12/01/19

       3,937        4,192,905   

Bank of America Corp. (e):

      

3.75%, 7/12/16

       5,525        5,767,415   

5.00%, 5/13/21

       17,100        18,930,743   

5.70%, 1/24/22

       2,590        2,981,794   

4.00%, 4/01/24

       6,975        7,207,058   

Bank of America NA, 5.30%, 3/15/17 (e)

       13,440        14,573,274   

Barclays PLC, 4.38%, 9/11/24

       2,100        2,037,105   

Citigroup, Inc. (e):

      

4.45%, 1/10/17

       4,800        5,109,672   

8.50%, 5/22/19

       464        582,190   

6.68%, 9/13/43

       4,125        5,245,156   

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC:

      

8.00%, 12/15/16

       4,000        4,533,240   

5.88%, 8/02/21

       9,420        10,887,269   

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.:

      

6.75%, 6/01/18

       1,700        1,931,625   

4.38%, 9/25/21

       2,260        2,367,576   

4.25%, 5/15/23

       1,681        1,731,430   

ING Bank NV, 5.00%, 6/09/21 (b)(e)

       8,000        9,028,232   

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA, 3.13%, 1/15/16

       5,450        5,564,483   

Jefferies Finance LLC/JFIN Co-Issuer Corp., 7.38%, 4/01/20 (b)

       2,105        2,094,475   

Jefferies Group LLC, 5.13%, 1/20/23

       1,850        1,960,419   

LeasePlan Corp. NV, 3.00%, 10/23/17 (b)(e)

       6,775        6,974,083   

Leucadia National Corp., 5.50%, 10/18/23

       4,000        4,189,888   

Lloyds Banking Group PLC, 4.50%, 11/04/24 (c)

       6,875        6,880,521   

Moody’s Corp., 6.06%, 9/07/17

       20,000        20,965,760   

Resparcs Funding LP I, 8.00% (f)(g)(h)

       4,000        1,520,000   

Reynolds Group Issuer, Inc.:

      

9.00%, 4/15/19

       370        386,650   

7.88%, 8/15/19

       2,480        2,656,700   

9.88%, 8/15/19

       493        535,521   

5.75%, 10/15/20

       4,620        4,804,800   

6.88%, 2/15/21

       105        111,563   

8.25%, 2/15/21

       1,836        1,973,700   

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC:

      

6.13%, 12/15/22

       425        460,070   

6.10%, 6/10/23

       2,500        2,702,840   

5.13%, 5/28/24

       5,250        5,319,174   
      

 

 

 
                       166,207,331   

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 5.5%

  

AT&T, Inc.:

      

6.30%, 1/15/38 (e)

     USD        12,000      $ 14,500,044   

4.30%, 12/15/42

       265        247,158   

4.35%, 6/15/45

       367        342,557   

CenturyLink, Inc.:

      

5.63%, 4/01/20

       1,375        1,457,500   

6.45%, 6/15/21

       285        312,075   

Frontier Communications Corp.:

      

6.25%, 9/15/21

       980        1,012,463   

7.63%, 4/15/24

       2,400        2,580,000   

Level 3 Financing, Inc.:

      

8.13%, 7/01/19

       11,171        11,952,970   

8.63%, 7/15/20

       2,240        2,464,000   

Telefonica Emisiones SAU, 3.19%, 4/27/18

       6,550        6,798,664   

Verizon Communications, Inc. (e):

      

5.15%, 9/15/23

       8,775        9,827,017   

6.40%, 9/15/33

       9,475        11,541,157   

7.35%, 4/01/39

       7,825        10,549,642   

6.55%, 9/15/43

       13,225        16,671,514   

Windstream Corp.:

      

7.75%, 10/15/20

       430        457,950   

6.38%, 8/01/23

       80        80,600   
      

 

 

 
                       90,795,311   

Electric Utilities — 3.8%

      

CMS Energy Corp., 5.05%, 3/15/22

       9,900        11,092,386   

Duke Energy Corp., 3.55%, 9/15/21 (e)

       3,650        3,799,077   

Great Plains Energy, Inc., 5.29%, 6/15/22 (i)

       5,550        6,377,144   

Midland Cogeneration Venture LP, 5.25%, 3/15/25 (b)

       4,935        5,089,742   

Mirant Mid-Atlantic Pass-Through Trust:

      

Series B, 9.13%, 6/30/17

       1,039        1,117,000   

Series C, 10.06%, 12/30/28

       1,568        1,724,404   

NiSource Finance Corp., 6.80%, 1/15/19

       3,075        3,634,788   

Oncor Electric Delivery Co. LLC (e):

      

4.10%, 6/01/22

       4,150        4,462,943   

5.30%, 6/01/42

       2,750        3,291,689   

Progress Energy, Inc., 7.00%, 10/30/31 (e)

       12,000        16,085,436   

Puget Energy, Inc.:

      

6.00%, 9/01/21

       275        319,301   

5.63%, 7/15/22

       5,550        6,408,047   
      

 

 

 
                       63,401,957   

Electrical Equipment — 0.1%

      

GrafTech International Ltd., 6.38%, 11/15/20

             2,385        2,224,251   

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.4%

  

Jabil Circuit, Inc., 8.25%, 3/15/18

       2,600        3,009,500   

Nielsen Finance LLC/Nielsen Finance Co., 5.00%, 4/15/22 (b)

       475        482,125   

Sanmina Corp., 4.38%, 6/01/19 (b)

       1,415        1,416,769   

WireCo WorldGroup, Inc., 9.50%, 5/15/17

       1,605        1,637,100   
      

 

 

 
                       6,545,494   

Energy Equipment & Services — 1.5%

      

Atwood Oceanics, Inc., 6.50%, 2/01/20

       375        376,875   

Energy Transfer Partners LP, 5.20%, 2/01/22

       10,200        11,160,881   

Ensco PLC, 4.50%, 10/01/24

       2,930        2,967,319   

Genesis Energy LP/Genesis Energy Finance Corp., 5.75%, 2/15/21

       293        294,465   

Transocean, Inc.:

      

2.50%, 10/15/17

       1,300        1,284,386   

6.50%, 11/15/20

       3,795        3,903,480   

6.38%, 12/15/21

       4,655        4,891,739   

6.80%, 3/15/38

       720        674,460   
      

 

 

 
                       25,553,605   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    13


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Food & Staples Retailing — 0.7%

      

HJ Heinz Finance Co., 7.13%, 8/01/39 (b)

     USD        4,415      $ 4,889,612   

Rite Aid Corp., 6.75%, 6/15/21

       1,170        1,248,975   

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., 5.25%, 9/01/35 (e)

       5,150        6,085,508   
      

 

 

 
                       12,224,095   

Food Products — 1.6%

      

Barry Callebaut Services NV, 5.50%, 6/15/23 (b)

       2,600        2,730,260   

Kellogg Co., Series B, 7.45%, 4/01/31 (e)

       5,000        6,552,850   

Kraft Foods Group, Inc., 5.00%, 6/04/42

       5,000        5,334,610   

Mondelez International, Inc.:

      

6.50%, 8/11/17

       4,450        5,020,428   

6.13%, 8/23/18

       4,840        5,587,068   

Smithfield Foods, Inc., 5.88%, 8/01/21 (b)

       715        757,900   
      

 

 

 
                       25,983,116   

Gas Utilities — 0.2%

      

Targa Resources Partners LP/Targa Resources Partners Finance Corp.:

      

7.88%, 10/15/18

       2,355        2,455,088   

6.88%, 2/01/21

       1,265        1,359,875   
      

 

 

 
                       3,814,963   

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.1%

      

Teleflex, Inc., 6.88%, 6/01/19

             1,660        1,780,350   

Health Care Providers & Services — 3.8%

      

Acadia Healthcare Co., Inc., 5.13%, 7/01/22

       435        431,738   

Amsurg Corp., 5.63%, 7/15/22 (b)

       1,856        1,923,048   

Aviv Healthcare Properties LP/Aviv Healthcare Capital Corp., 7.75%, 2/15/19

       1,550        1,627,500   

CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc.:

      

5.13%, 8/15/18

       1,620        1,684,800   

6.88%, 2/01/22

       1,111        1,197,102   

DaVita HealthCare Partners, Inc., 5.13%, 7/15/24

       1,990        2,029,800   

HCA Holdings, Inc., 7.75%, 5/15/21

       4,549        4,901,547   

HCA, Inc.:

      

3.75%, 3/15/19

       4,364        4,374,910   

6.50%, 2/15/20

       10,421        11,632,441   

5.88%, 3/15/22

       340        373,150   

4.75%, 5/01/23

       676        686,985   

Tenet Healthcare Corp.:

      

6.25%, 11/01/18

       736        799,480   

4.75%, 6/01/20

       1,450        1,482,625   

6.00%, 10/01/20

       3,645        3,918,375   

4.50%, 4/01/21

       73        73,183   

4.38%, 10/01/21

       7,335        7,289,156   

8.13%, 4/01/22

       4,907        5,624,649   

UnitedHealth Group, Inc., 6.88%, 2/15/38 (e)

       10,000        13,707,510   
      

 

 

 
                       63,757,999   

Health Care Technology — 0.4%

      

Amgen, Inc., 5.15%, 11/15/41 (e)

             6,500        6,971,198   

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 0.6%

      

Caesars Entertainment Operating Co., Inc., 9.00%, 2/15/20

       5,243        3,939,375   

CDW LLC/CDW Finance Corp., 6.00%, 8/15/22

       1,380        1,455,900   

New Red Finance, Inc., 6.00%, 4/01/22 (b)

       2,215        2,245,456   

Six Flags Entertainment Corp.,
5.25%, 1/15/21 (b)

       1,718        1,726,590   
      

 

 

 
                       9,367,321   

Household Durables — 1.3%

      

Beazer Homes USA, Inc., 6.63%, 4/15/18

       2,330        2,429,025   

Brookfield Residential Properties, Inc./Brookfield Residential US Corp., 6.13%, 7/01/22 (b)

       1,647        1,749,938   

K. Hovnanian Enterprises, Inc., 7.25%, 10/15/20 (b)

       3,675        3,867,937   
Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Household Durables (concluded)

      

KB Home, 7.25%, 6/15/18

     USD        1,990      $ 2,154,175   

Standard Pacific Corp., 8.38%, 1/15/21

       3,015        3,520,012   

Taylor Morrison Communities, Inc./Monarch Communities, Inc., 5.25%, 4/15/21 (b)

       1,537        1,547,959   

United Rentals North America, Inc.:

      

7.38%, 5/15/20

       2,025        2,197,125   

7.63%, 4/15/22

       1,853        2,066,095   

Tri Pointe Holdings, Inc. (b):

      

4.38%, 6/15/19

       920        915,400   

5.88%, 6/15/24

       625        637,500   
      

 

 

 
                       21,085,166   

Household Products — 0.1%

      

Spectrum Brands, Inc.:

      

6.38%, 11/15/20

       810        858,600   

6.63%, 11/15/22

       1,110        1,190,475   
      

 

 

 
                       2,049,075   

Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.7%

  

Baytex Energy Corp. (b):

      

5.13%, 6/01/21

       435        424,125   

5.63%, 6/01/24

       155        149,575   

Calpine Corp.:

      

6.00%, 1/15/22 (b)

       878        946,045   

5.38%, 1/15/23

       2,333        2,356,330   

5.88%, 1/15/24 (b)

       823        884,725   

5.75%, 1/15/25

       1,770        1,792,125   

Dynegy Finance I, Inc./Dynegy Finance II, Inc., 6.75%, 11/01/19 (b)

       2,195        2,271,825   

NRG REMA LLC, 9.68%, 7/02/26

       1,130        1,220,400   

QEP Resources, Inc., 5.38%, 10/01/22

       1,927        1,898,095   
      

 

 

 
                       11,943,245   

Insurance — 5.8%

      

A-S Co-Issuer Subsidiary, Inc./A-S Merger Sub LLC, 7.88%, 12/15/20 (b)

       1,204        1,240,120   

American International Group, Inc., 6.40%, 12/15/20 (e)

       8,710        10,401,046   

Aon Corp., 5.00%, 9/30/20 (e)

       7,700        8,638,468   

Aon PLC, 4.25%, 12/12/42 (e)

       6,500        6,036,069   

Forethought Financial Group, Inc., 8.63%, 4/15/21 (b)

       3,400        3,874,946   

Genworth Holdings, Inc., 7.63%, 9/24/21

       2,880        3,510,467   

Manulife Financial Corp., 4.90%, 9/17/20 (e)

       10,425        11,454,312   

MPL 2 Acquisition Canco, Inc.,
9.88%, 8/15/18 (b)

       1,455        1,560,488   

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co., 6.06%, 3/30/40 (b)(e)

       12,000        14,904,924   

Principal Financial Group, Inc., 8.88%, 5/15/19 (e)

       2,825        3,584,668   

Prudential Financial, Inc., 6.63%, 12/01/37 (e)

       10,000        12,842,540   

XLIT Ltd., 5.75%, 10/01/21 (e)

       10,085        11,589,884   

ZFS Finance USA Trust II, 6.45%, 12/15/65 (a)(b)(e)

       6,800        7,242,000   
      

 

 

 
                       96,879,932   

IT Services — 1.4%

  

Ceridian LLC, 8.88%, 7/15/19 (b)

       12,085        13,353,925   

Ceridian LLC/Comdata, Inc.,
8.13%, 11/15/17 (b)

       1,455        1,455,000   

Epicor Software Corp., 8.63%, 5/01/19

       2,400        2,553,000   

First Data Corp. (b):

      

7.38%, 6/15/19

       2,905        3,079,300   

6.75%, 11/01/20

       1,768        1,891,760   

8.25%, 1/15/21

       250        271,250   
      

 

 

 
                       22,604,235   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
14    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.8%

  

Life Technologies Corp., 6.00%, 3/01/20 (e)

     USD        12,000      $ 13,854,768   

Media — 6.4%

  

21st Century Fox America, Inc., 6.15%, 3/01/37 (e)

       9,575        11,691,898   

A&E Television Networks LLC, 3.11%, 8/22/19

       5,000        5,022,500   

AMC Networks, Inc.:

      

7.75%, 7/15/21

       1,330        1,449,700   

4.75%, 12/15/22

       685        679,862   

CBS Outdoor Americas Capital LLC/CBS Outdoor Americas Capital Corp. (b):

      

5.25%, 2/15/22

       249        257,093   

5.63%, 2/15/24

       122        127,185   

CCOH Safari LLC (c):

      

5.50%, 12/01/22

       2,093        2,113,930   

5.75%, 12/01/24

       3,075        3,092,297   

Cinemark USA, Inc., 5.13%, 12/15/22

       349        349,000   

Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc., 6.50%, 11/15/22

       10,205        10,548,385   

COX Communications, Inc.,
8.38%, 3/01/39 (b)(e)

       5,000        7,149,145   

CSC Holdings LLC, 8.63%, 2/15/19

       4,005        4,700,869   

DIRECTV Holdings LLC/DIRECTV Financing Co., Inc., 5.00%, 3/01/21 (e)

       8,575        9,441,478   

Gray Television, Inc., 7.50%, 10/01/20

       713        745,976   

Grupo Televisa SAB, 5.00%, 5/13/45

       3,345        3,328,944   

Intelsat Jackson Holdings SA:

      

7.25%, 4/01/19

       710        745,500   

5.50%, 8/01/23

       2,909        2,916,272   

The Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc., 3.75%, 2/15/23

       6,025        6,001,430   

Level 3 Escrow II, Inc., 5.38%, 8/15/22 (b)

       2,250        2,289,375   

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., 7.00%, 9/01/20 (b)

       463        491,938   

NAI Entertainment Holdings/NAI Entertainment Holdings Finance Corp., 5.00%, 8/01/18 (b)

       1,471        1,507,775   

Numericable Group SA, 6.00%, 5/15/22 (b)

       9,000        9,202,500   

Sinclair Television Group, Inc.,
5.63%, 8/01/24 (b)

       657        648,788   

Sirius XM Radio, Inc., 4.25%, 5/15/20 (b)

       2,300        2,287,062   

Time Warner Cable, Inc., 6.55%, 5/01/37

       3,519        4,428,000   

Unitymedia Hessen GmbH & Co. KG/Unitymedia NRW GmbH (b):

      

7.50%, 3/15/19

       3,530        3,715,325   

5.50%, 1/15/23

       1,000        1,042,500   

Univision Communications, Inc.,
5.13%, 5/15/23 (b)

       4,793        5,056,615   

Virgin Media Secured Finance PLC, 5.38%, 4/15/21 (b)

       1,394        1,446,275   

VTR Finance BV, 6.88%, 1/15/24 (b)

       4,020        4,221,000   
      

 

 

 
                       106,698,617   

Metals & Mining — 2.9%

  

Alcoa, Inc., 5.13%, 10/01/24

       2,451        2,587,562   

AngloGold Ashanti Holdings PLC, 5.13%, 8/01/22

       5,000        4,737,770   

ArcelorMittal, 6.13%, 6/01/18

       2,575        2,755,250   

Commercial Metals Co., 4.88%, 5/15/23

       2,194        2,139,150   

Constellium NV:

      

4.63%, 5/15/21

     EUR        490        607,903   

5.75%, 5/15/24 (b)

     USD        1,178        1,166,220   

Freeport-McMoRan Corp., 7.13%, 11/01/27

       8,500        10,084,596   

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc. (e):

      

3.55%, 3/01/22

       4,700        4,593,005   

3.88%, 3/15/23

       8,900        8,796,386   

Novelis, Inc., 8.75%, 12/15/20

       3,285        3,584,756   

Peabody Energy Corp., 6.50%, 9/15/20

       1,020        971,550   
Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Metals & Mining (concluded)

  

Steel Dynamics, Inc.:

      

5.13%, 10/01/21 (b)

     USD        1,105      $ 1,143,675   

6.38%, 8/15/22

       1,430        1,555,125   

5.25%, 4/15/23

       163        171,150   

Wise Metals Group LLC/Wise Alloys Finance Corp.,
8.75%, 12/15/18 (b)

       2,785        3,007,800   
      

 

 

 
                       47,901,898   

Multi-Utilities — 1.9%

      

CenterPoint Energy, Inc.:

      

5.95%, 2/01/17 (e)

       9,000        9,923,796   

6.50%, 5/01/18

       9,675        11,132,084   

Dominion Resources, Inc., 8.88%, 1/15/19 (e)

       8,000        10,075,328   
      

 

 

 
                       31,131,208   

Multiline Retail — 0.4%

      

Dollar General Corp., 3.25%, 4/15/23

       2,500        2,244,825   

Dufry Finance SCA, 5.50%, 10/15/20 (b)

       3,460        3,529,546   
      

 

 

 
                       5,774,371   

Offshore Drilling & Other Services — 0.0%

      

Sensata Technologies BV, 5.63%, 11/01/24 (b)

             695        733,659   

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 17.0%

      

Access Midstream Partners LP/ACMP Finance Corp.:

      

5.88%, 4/15/21

       2,657        2,809,777   

6.13%, 7/15/22

       1,668        1,813,950   

4.88%, 5/15/23

       343        358,435   

Anadarko Petroleum Corp., 6.38%, 9/15/17

       75        84,674   

Antero Resources Finance Corp.,
5.38%, 11/01/21

       649        658,735   

Athlon Holdings LP/Athlon Finance Corp.,
7.38%, 4/15/21

       656        718,320   

Berry Petroleum Co., 6.38%, 9/15/22

       3,207        2,982,510   

Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc.:

      

6.75%, 4/15/21

       1,145        1,147,863   

5.75%, 2/01/23

       1,555        1,485,025   

California Resources Corp., 6.00%, 11/15/24 (b)

       2,345        2,391,900   

Chesapeake Energy Corp.:

      

6.63%, 8/15/20

       3,171        3,575,302   

6.88%, 11/15/20

       493        563,253   

6.13%, 2/15/21

       1,857        2,061,270   

5.75%, 3/15/23

       1,974        2,161,530   

Cimarex Energy Co., 4.38%, 6/01/24

       527        535,564   

Concho Resources, Inc.:

      

5.50%, 10/01/22

       226        238,430   

5.50%, 4/01/23

       1,995        2,109,712   

CONSOL Energy, Inc., 5.88%, 4/15/22 (b)

       6,131        6,222,965   

Continental Resources, Inc.:

      

5.00%, 9/15/22

       11,232        11,905,920   

4.50%, 4/15/23

       469        491,270   

DCP Midstream LLC, 4.75%, 9/30/21 (b)

       1,074        1,156,537   

DCP Midstream Operating LP, 3.88%, 3/15/23

       2,690        2,692,776   

Denbury Resources, Inc.:

      

5.50%, 5/01/22

       845        832,325   

4.63%, 7/15/23

       1,727        1,595,316   

El Paso LLC:

      

7.80%, 8/01/31

       197        242,310   

7.75%, 1/15/32

       4,586        5,732,500   

El Paso Natural Gas Co. LLC, 8.63%, 1/15/22

       2,345        3,011,953   

El Paso Pipeline Partners Operating Co. LLC,
6.50%, 4/01/20

       5,075        5,805,658   

Enbridge Energy Partners LP, 9.88%, 3/01/19

       6,000        7,762,188   

Energy Transfer Equity LP, 5.88%, 1/15/24

       3,913        4,108,650   

Energy XXI Gulf Coast, Inc.:

      

7.75%, 6/15/19

       616        554,400   

6.88%, 3/15/24 (b)

       449        354,710   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    15


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)

      

Enterprise Products Operating LLC,
Series N, 6.50%, 1/31/19 (e)

     USD        12,000      $ 14,044,596   

EP Energy LLC/Everest Acquisition Finance, Inc.,
Series WI, 6.88%, 5/01/19

       2,693        2,800,720   

Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co.,
5.00%, 12/01/24 (b)

       5,105        4,900,800   

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners LP:

      

6.85%, 2/15/20 (e)

       12,000        14,124,384   

4.25%, 9/01/24

       2,170        2,160,459   

5.40%, 9/01/44

       3,615        3,541,109   

Kinder Morgan, Inc. (b):

      

5.00%, 2/15/21

       496        523,280   

5.63%, 11/15/23

       504        554,400   

Kodiak Oil & Gas Corp., 5.50%, 2/01/22

       540        550,800   

Laredo Petroleum, Inc., 7.38%, 5/01/22

       231        240,240   

Linn Energy LLC/Linn Energy Finance Corp.:

      

6.25%, 11/01/19

       1,047        963,240   

8.63%, 4/15/20

       1,797        1,801,493   

7.75%, 2/01/21

       475        465,500   

Marathon Petroleum Corp., 3.50%, 3/01/16

       4,600        4,747,844   

MarkWest Energy Partners LP/MarkWest Energy Finance Corp., 6.25%, 6/15/22

       1,369        1,475,098   

MEG Energy Corp. (b):

      

6.50%, 3/15/21

       3,839        3,800,610   

7.00%, 3/31/24

       3,598        3,615,990   

Memorial Production Partners LP/Memorial Production Finance Corp., 7.63%, 5/01/21

       885        857,344   

Midcontinent Express Pipeline LLC,
6.70%, 9/15/19 (b)

       3,500        3,898,125   

Nexen, Inc., 6.40%, 5/15/37 (e)

       4,615        5,749,713   

NGPL PipeCo LLC, 9.63%, 6/01/19 (b)

       902        960,630   

Oasis Petroleum, Inc.:

      

7.25%, 2/01/19

       915        942,450   

6.50%, 11/01/21

       1,025        1,050,625   

ONEOK Partners LP, 8.63%, 3/01/19 (e)

       10,000        12,383,420   

Pacific Drilling SA, 5.38%, 6/01/20 (b)

       1,537        1,374,654   

PDC Energy, Inc., 7.75%, 10/15/22

       1,225        1,286,520   

Peabody Energy Corp.:

      

6.00%, 11/15/18

       2,527        2,444,872   

6.25%, 11/15/21 (e)

       1,483        1,404,216   

Penn Virginia Resource Partners LP/Penn Virginia Resource Finance Corp. II, 8.38%, 6/01/20

       2,221        2,454,205   

Petrobras International Finance Co. SA (e):

      

3.88%, 1/27/16

       12,550        12,792,817   

5.38%, 1/27/21

       3,385        3,465,766   

Petroleos Mexicanos (e):

      

3.50%, 1/30/23

       5,000        4,839,500   

4.88%, 1/18/24

       2,000        2,115,000   

Petroleum Geo-Services ASA,
7.38%, 12/15/18 (b)

       3,980        3,860,600   

Pioneer Natural Resources Co., 6.88%, 5/01/18

       1,665        1,908,809   

Premier Oil PLC, 5.11%, 6/09/18

       11,500        11,931,250   

Range Resources Corp.:

      

6.75%, 8/01/20

       1,760        1,861,200   

5.00%, 8/15/22

       32        33,560   

5.00%, 3/15/23

       75        78,375   

Regency Energy Partners LP/Regency Energy Finance Corp., 4.50%, 11/01/23

       4,351        4,318,367   

RKI Exploration & Production LLC/RKI Finance Corp., 8.50%, 8/01/21 (b)

       704        688,160   

Rockies Express Pipeline LLC,
6.88%, 4/15/40 (b)

       580        643,800   

Rosetta Resources, Inc., 5.63%, 5/01/21

       3,448        3,344,560   

RSP Permian, Inc., 6.63%, 10/01/22 (b)

       789        786,870   

Ruby Pipeline LLC, 6.00%, 4/01/22 (b)

       10,000        11,086,680   

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC (b):

      

5.63%, 4/15/23

       7,393        7,651,755   

5.75%, 5/15/24

       2,869        2,965,829   
Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

      

Sabine Pass LNG LP, 7.50%, 11/30/16

     USD        5,965      $ 6,397,462   

Sanchez Energy Corp., 6.13%, 1/15/23 (b)

       1,141        1,086,803   

SandRidge Energy, Inc.:

      

8.75%, 1/15/20

       114        105,450   

7.50%, 2/15/23

       1,291        1,148,990   

Seventy Seven Energy, Inc., 6.50%, 7/15/22 (b)

       526        494,440   

SM Energy Co., 6.50%, 1/01/23

       322        332,465   

Summit Midstream Holdings LLC/Summit Midstream Finance Corp., 7.50%, 7/01/21

       1,614        1,751,190   

Tesoro Logistics LP/Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp.,
6.25%, 10/15/22 (b)

       1,519        1,572,165   

Ultra Petroleum Corp., 5.75%, 12/15/18 (b)

       293        290,070   

Western Gas Partners LP, 5.38%, 6/01/21

       5,125        5,728,976   

Whiting Petroleum Corp.:

      

5.00%, 3/15/19

       3,550        3,674,250   

5.75%, 3/15/21

       2,341        2,469,755   

The Williams Cos., Inc.:

      

3.70%, 1/15/23

       5,000        4,703,585   

4.55%, 6/24/24

       830        813,161   

8.75%, 3/15/32

       2,478        3,156,028   

5.75%, 6/24/44

       685        654,023   

WPX Energy, Inc., 5.25%, 9/15/24

       856        834,600   
      

 

 

 
                       282,869,376   

Paper & Forest Products — 2.3%

      

Ainsworth Lumber Co. Ltd., 7.50%, 12/15/17 (b)

       1,473        1,524,555   

Clearwater Paper Corp., 4.50%, 2/01/23

       532        518,700   

International Paper Co. (e):

      

7.50%, 8/15/21

       9,675        12,104,189   

8.70%, 6/15/38

       4,000        5,897,640   

7.30%, 11/15/39

       10,000        13,106,760   

Louisiana-Pacific Corp., 7.50%, 6/01/20

       2,130        2,279,100   

Mercer International, Inc., 9.50%, 12/01/17

       2,900        3,045,000   
      

 

 

 
                       38,475,944   

Pharmaceuticals — 2.4%

      

AbbVie, Inc., 2.90%, 11/06/22 (e)

       5,675        5,520,413   

Endo Finance LLC/Endo Finco, Inc. (b):

      

7.00%, 12/15/20

       241        254,255   

7.25%, 1/15/22

       499        532,683   

Forest Laboratories, Inc. (b):

      

4.38%, 2/01/19

       2,924        3,062,770   

5.00%, 12/15/21

       1,631        1,747,703   

Grifols Worldwide Operations, Ltd., 5.25%, 4/01/22 (b)

       1,613        1,653,325   

Mallinckrodt International Finance SA, 5.75%, 8/01/22 (b)

       2,130        2,231,175   

Merck & Co., Inc., 6.50%, 12/01/33 (e)

       6,420        8,841,598   

Mylan, Inc., 6.00%, 11/15/18 (b)

       3,250        3,348,296   

Salix Pharmaceuticals, Ltd., 6.00%, 1/15/21 (b)

       697        754,503   

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International (b):

      

6.75%, 8/15/18

       6,955        7,398,381   

6.38%, 10/15/20

       2,355        2,416,819   

5.63%, 12/01/21

       1,615        1,598,850   
      

 

 

 
                       39,360,771   

Professional Services — 0.5%

      

Ceridian HCM Holding, Inc., 11.00%, 3/15/21 (b)

       2,158        2,433,145   

The Dun & Bradstreet Corp., 3.25%, 12/01/17

       5,750        5,962,100   
      

 

 

 
                       8,395,245   

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 2.9%

      

ARC Properties Operating Partnership LP/Clark Acquisition LLC, 4.60%, 2/06/24

       5,000        4,863,785   

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.,
6.10%, 3/15/20 (e)

       10,000        11,703,130   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
16    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) (concluded)

  

   

DDR Corp.:

      

4.75%, 4/15/18

     USD        2,140      $ 2,313,486   

7.88%, 9/01/20

       2,650        3,289,967   

ERP Operating LP, 5.75%, 6/15/17 (e)

       10,000        11,118,650   

Felcor Lodging LP, 5.63%, 3/01/23

       999        996,502   

HCP, Inc., 5.38%, 2/01/21 (e)

       3,450        3,856,996   

Host Hotels & Resorts LP, Series D, 3.75%, 10/15/23

       3,600        3,564,871   

iStar Financial, Inc.:

      

4.00%, 11/01/17

       825        817,163   

5.00%, 7/01/19

       580        577,100   

Rayonier AM Products, Inc., 5.50%, 6/01/24 (b)

       128        120,960   

UDR, Inc., 4.25%, 6/01/18

       5,225        5,611,258   
      

 

 

 
                       48,833,868   

Real Estate Management & Development — 0.7%

  

   

Lennar Corp., 4.75%, 11/15/22

       1,805        1,777,925   

Northwest Florida Timber Finance LLC, 4.75%, 3/04/29 (b)(e)

       4,485        4,477,824   

Realogy Corp., 7.63%, 1/15/20 (b)(e)

       2,085        2,262,225   

Realogy Group LLC/Realogy Co-Issuer Corp., 4.50%, 4/15/19 (b)

       1,147        1,149,868   

Shea Homes LP/Shea Homes Funding Corp., 8.63%, 5/15/19

       1,625        1,730,625   
      

 

 

 
                       11,398,467   

Road & Rail — 1.5%

      

The Hertz Corp.:

      

4.25%, 4/01/18

       983        983,000   

6.75%, 4/15/19

       1,167        1,216,597   

5.88%, 10/15/20

       925        931,938   

7.38%, 1/15/21

       310        327,825   

Norfolk Southern Corp., 6.00%, 3/15/05 (e)

       17,200        21,009,473   
      

 

 

 
                       24,468,833   

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 0.7%

  

KLA-Tencor Corp., 6.90%, 5/01/18 (e)

       5,515        6,385,212   

Micron Technology, Inc., 5.50%, 2/01/25 (b)

       3,590        3,634,875   

NXP BV/NXP Funding LLC, 5.75%, 2/15/21 (b)

       1,655        1,746,025   
      

 

 

 
                       11,766,112   

Software — 0.4%

  

Infor US, Inc., 9.38%, 4/01/19

       2,190        2,381,625   

Nuance Communications, Inc., 5.38%, 8/15/20 (b)

       4,435        4,457,175   
      

 

 

 
                       6,838,800   

Specialty Retail — 1.0%

  

AutoNation, Inc., 6.75%, 4/15/18

       6,125        6,959,654   

L Brands, Inc., 7.00%, 5/01/20

       3,050        3,461,750   

QVC, Inc., 7.38%, 10/15/20 (b)

       355        375,412   

VF Corp., 5.95%, 11/01/17 (e)

       5,000        5,686,880   
      

 

 

 
                       16,483,696   

Textiles Apparel & Shoes — 0.1%

  

Springs Industries, Inc., 6.25%, 6/01/21

             1,674        1,642,613   

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.1%

  

The William Carter Co., 5.25%, 8/15/21

             1,406        1,448,180   

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 0.1%

  

Radian Group, Inc., 5.50%, 6/01/19

             1,378        1,412,450   

Tobacco — 2.0%

  

Altria Group, Inc., 10.20%, 2/06/39 (e)

       13,392        22,943,563   

Lorillard Tobacco Co., 3.50%, 8/04/16

       8,375        8,684,732   

Reynolds American, Inc.:

      

3.25%, 11/01/22

       970        947,272   

4.85%, 9/15/23

       1,120        1,207,733   
      

 

 

 
                       33,783,300   
Corporate Bonds           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.4%

  

Doric Nimrod Air Alpha 2013-1 Pass-Through Trust (b):

      

6.13%, 11/30/21

     USD        3,713      $ 3,954,463   

5.25%, 5/30/25

       2,871        3,021,680   
      

 

 

 
                       6,976,143   

Transportation Infrastructure — 0.9%

  

CEVA Group PLC (b):

      

4.00%, 5/01/18

       3,310        3,061,750   

7.00%, 3/01/21

       1,067        1,037,658   

Penske Truck Leasing Co. LP/PTL Finance Corp., 4.88%, 7/11/22 (b)

       10,500        11,361,882   
      

 

 

 
                       15,461,290   

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 5.4%

  

America Movil SAB de CV (e):

      

2.38%, 9/08/16

       12,495        12,792,256   

3.13%, 7/16/22

       1,275        1,253,185   

American Tower Corp.:

      

4.50%, 1/15/18

       6,500        6,938,100   

5.05%, 9/01/20

       500        544,915   

5.90%, 11/01/21 (e)

       3,770        4,249,480   

Crown Castle International Corp., 5.25%, 1/15/23

       1,880        1,924,650   

Crown Castle Towers LLC (b):

      

5.50%, 1/15/37

       4,000        4,255,472   

4.17%, 8/15/37

       3,000        3,148,170   

6.11%, 1/15/40

       4,555        5,262,688   

Digicel Group Ltd. (b):

      

8.25%, 9/30/20

       2,615        2,732,675   

7.13%, 4/01/22

       825        829,125   

Digicel Ltd., 6.00%, 4/15/21 (b)

       1,285        1,297,850   

SBA Tower Trust, 5.10%, 4/15/42 (b)

       13,975        14,817,720   

Sprint Communications, Inc. (b):

      

9.00%, 11/15/18

       5,290        6,222,362   

7.00%, 3/01/20

       9,302        10,376,381   

Sprint Corp. (b):

      

7.88%, 9/15/23

       1,815        1,964,737   

7.13%, 6/15/24

       1,625        1,669,688   

T-Mobile USA, Inc.:

      

6.63%, 4/28/21

       2,680        2,824,050   

6.73%, 4/28/22

       2,495        2,638,462   

6.00%, 3/01/23

       580        597,400   

6.84%, 4/28/23

       1,405        1,485,788   

6.38%, 3/01/25

       1,845        1,895,738   
      

 

 

 
                       89,720,892   
Total Corporate Bonds — 113.3%                1,882,022,904   
      
                          
Foreign Agency Obligations                      

Brazilian Government International Bond, 5.00%, 1/27/45

       5,000        4,900,000   

Indonesia Government International Bond, 5.88%, 1/15/24 (b)

       4,400        5,005,000   

Mexico Government International Bond, 4.75%, 3/08/44

             2,300        2,335,650   
Total Foreign Agency Obligations — 0.7%                12,240,650   
      
                          
Municipal Bonds  

City of Chicago Illinois, Refunding ARB, O’Hare International Airport, General 3rd Lien, Build America Bonds, Series B, 6.85%, 1/01/38

       5,000        5,612,150   

Metropolitan Transportation Authority, RB, Build America Bonds, Series B-1, 6.55%, 11/15/31

             10,000        12,791,100   
Total Municipal Bonds — 1.1%                18,403,250   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    17


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Securities           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Agency Obligations — 0.2%

      

Fannie Mae, 0.00%, 10/09/19 (e)(j)

     USD        3,945      $ 3,536,314   
      
                          
U.S. Treasury Obligations  

U.S. Treasury Bond, 3.38%, 5/15/44 (e)

       8,650        9,176,430   

U.S. Treasury Notes (e):

      

1.50%, 5/31/19

       1,898        1,894,441   

1.63%, 6/30/19

       750        752,402   

1.63%, 7/31/19

       1,235        1,237,991   

2.38%, 8/15/24

             9,315        9,351,385   
Total U.S. Treasury Obligations — 1.3%                22,412,649   
      
                          
Preferred Securities                      
Capital Trusts                      

Banks — 2.8%

      

BNP Paribas SA, 7.20% (a)(b)(e)(f)

       5,000        5,765,650   

Credit Agricole SA, 8.38% (a)(b)(f)

       5,000        5,793,750   

Fifth Third Bancorp, Series J, 4.90% (a)(f)

       2,035        2,001,626   

HSBC Capital Funding LP, 10.18% (a)(b)(e)(f)

       11,835        17,663,737   

HSBC Holdings PLC, 5.63% (a)(f)

       4,655        4,730,644   

M&T Capital Trust II, 8.28%, 6/01/27

       4,540        4,622,542   

Nordea Bank AB, 6.13% (a)(b)(f)

       5,540        5,551,634   

Wells Fargo & Co., Series S, 5.90% (a)(f)

       1,090        1,120,629   
      

 

 

 
                       47,250,212   

Capital Markets — 1.6%

      

Ameriprise Financial, Inc., 7.52%, 6/01/66 (a)(e)

       3,000        3,232,500   

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.,
Series L, 5.70% (a)(e)(f)

       2,950        3,016,375   

Morgan Stanley, Series H, 5.45% (a)(f)

       2,200        2,210,314   

State Street Capital Trust IV, 1.23%, 6/15/37 (a)

       20,845        17,770,362   
      

 

 

 
                       26,229,551   

Diversified Financial Services — 3.7%

      

Bank of America Corp. (a)(f):

      

Series K, 8.00%

       2,420        2,604,525   

Series U, 5.20%

       6,685        6,200,337   

Barclays PLC, 6.63% (a)(f)

       4,885        4,674,945   

Citigroup, Inc., 5.90% (a)(f)

       2,210        2,198,950   

General Electric Capital Corp. (a)(e)(f):

      

Series B, 6.25%

       9,100        9,953,489   

Series C, 5.25%

       1,200        1,203,000   

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (a)(f)

      

Series 1, 7.90%

       3,650        3,955,688   

Series Q, 5.15%

       4,000        3,790,000   

Series R, 6.00%

       14,130        14,006,362   

Series S, 6.75%

       7,775        8,191,740   

Societe Generale SA, 6.00% (a)(b)(f)

       4,470        4,212,975   
      

 

 

 
                       60,992,011   

Electric Utilities — 0.5%

      

PPL Capital Funding, Inc., Series A,
6.70%, 3/30/67 (a)

             8,300        8,414,125   

Insurance — 7.3%

      

ACE Capital Trust II, 9.70%, 4/01/30 (e)

       7,000        10,290,000   

AIG Life Holdings, Inc., 8.50%, 7/01/30

       500        658,750   

The Allstate Corp., 6.50%, 5/15/67 (a)

       10,400        11,511,500   

American International Group, Inc.,
8.18%, 5/15/68 (a)

       3,755        5,097,413   

AXA SA (a)(b)(f):

      

6.38%

       4,900        5,282,837   

6.46%

       6,000        6,266,280   
Capital Trusts           Par  
(000)
    Value  

Insurance (concluded)

      

Bank One Capital III, 8.75%, 9/01/30 (e)

     USD        2,000      $ 2,815,712   

The Chubb Corp., 6.38%, 3/29/67 (a)(e)

       7,400        8,066,000   

Equitable of Iowa Cos. Capital Trust II, Series B, 8.42%, 4/01/27

       5,000        5,920,854   

Farmers Exchange Capital II, 6.15%, 11/01/53 (a)(b)

       4,890        5,347,015   

Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Capital LP II, 7.15%, 5/16/46 (a)(b)(e)

       500        517,500   

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., 8.13%, 6/15/68 (a)

       5,050        5,858,000   

ING US, Inc., 5.65%, 5/15/53 (a)

       4,750        4,750,000   

Liberty Mutual Group, Inc., 10.75%, 6/15/88 (a)(b)

       8,325        12,799,687   

MetLife, Inc., 6.40%, 12/15/36 (e)

       9,775        10,984,656   

Prudential Financial, Inc., 5.88%, 9/15/42 (a)

       6,100        6,466,000   

Reinsurance Group of America, Inc., 6.75%, 12/15/65 (a)

       12,000        12,240,000   

Swiss Re Capital I LP, 6.85% (a)(b)(f)

       4,450        4,672,500   

XL Group PLC, Series E, 6.50% (a)(f)

       1,920        1,842,240   
      

 

 

 
                       121,386,944   

Multi-Utilities — 0.3%

      

Dominion Resources, Inc., 7.50%, 6/30/66 (a)

             4,400        4,662,667   

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.3%

      

Enterprise Products Operating LLC: (a)

      

7.00%, 6/01/67

       2,500        2,628,125   

Series A, 8.38%, 8/01/66

       9,325        10,187,562   

TransCanada PipeLines Ltd.,
6.35%, 5/15/67 (a)

       9,400        9,494,000   
      

 

 

 
                       22,309,687   

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 0.6%

      

Sovereign Real Estate Investment Trust, 12.00% (b)

             7        9,342,683   

Road & Rail — 0.4%

      

BNSF Funding Trust I, 6.61%, 12/15/55 (a)

             6,125        6,838,618   
Total Capital Trusts — 18.5%        307,426,498   
      
                          
Preferred Stocks           Shares         

Banks — 0.9%

      

Wells Fargo & Co., 5.85% (a)

             550,500        14,290,980   

Capital Markets — 0.6%

      

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.,
Series J, 5.50% (a)

       162,450        3,887,429   

SCE Trust III, 5.75% (a)

       31,650        855,816   

State Street Corp., Series D, 5.90% (a)

       220,495        5,754,919   
      

 

 

 
                       10,498,164   

Consumer Finance — 0.0%

      

Ally Financial, Inc., Series A, 8.50% (a)

             24,509        648,999   

Diversified Financial Services — 0.8%

      

Citigroup, Inc., Series K, 6.88% (a)

             488,320        13,067,443   

Electric Utilities — 0.1%

      

Entergy Louisiana LLC, 5.25%

             90,000        2,250,000   

Insurance — 0.2%

      

The Allstate Corp., Series E, 6.63%

             125,000        3,292,500   

Machinery — 0.1%

      

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc., 6.25% (k)

             11,107        1,288,745   

Media — 0.4%

      

NBCUniversal Enterprise, Inc., 5.25% (b)(f)

             5,600        5,833,481   

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 0.2%

      

Ventas Realty LP/Ventas Capital Corp., 5.45%

       75,000        1,847,250   

Vornado Realty Trust, Series K, 5.70%

       50,000        1,229,500   
      

 

 

 
                       3,076,750   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
18    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Preferred Stocks        

Shares

    Value  

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.2%

      

Centaur Funding Corp., 9.08% (b)

         15,143      $ 19,004,465   
Total Preferred Stocks — 4.5%        73,251,527   
      
                      
Trust Preferred — 0.6%                    

Diversified Financial Services — 0.6%

      

GMAC Capital Trust I, Series 2, 8.13%, 2/15/40 (a)

         353,111        9,287,236   
Total Preferred Securities — 23.6%        389,965,261   
Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $2,249,859,560) — 144.6%
        2,401,618,577   
Short-Term Securities             
Shares
    Value  

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,
Institutional Class, 0.07% (l)(m)

         4,283,291      $ 4,283,291   
Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $4,283,291) — 0.3%
        4,283,291   
Options Purchased
(Cost — $8,179,455) — 0.2%
        3,369,343   
Total Investments Before Options Written
(Cost — $2,262,322,306) — 145.1%
        2,409,271,211   
Options Written
(Premiums Received — $7,454,970) — (0.1)%
        (2,444,259
Total Investments, Net of Options Written
(Cost — $2,254,867,336) — 145.0%
        2,406,826,952   
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (45.0)%        (746,384,987
      

 

 

 
Net Assets — 100.0%      $ 1,660,441,965   
      

 

 

 

 

Notes to Schedule of Investments

 

(a)   Variable rate security. Rate shown is as of report date.

 

(b)   Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors.

 

(c)   When-issued security. Unsettled when-issued transactions were as follows:

 

Counterparty      Value        Unrealized
Appreciation
 

Bank of America N.A.

     $ 4,283,700             

Citigroup Global Markets, Inc.

     $ 1,893,210             

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

     $ 935,625             

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

     $ 1,969,913         $ 4,912   

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

     $ 2,510,594         $ 15,594   

Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC

     $ 2,403,150             

 

(d)   Represents a payment-in-kind security which may pay interest/dividends in additional par/shares and/or in cash. Rates shown are the current rate and possible payment rates.

 

(e)   All or a portion of security has been pledged as collateral in connection with outstanding reverse repurchase agreements.

 

(f)   Security is perpetual in nature and has no stated maturity date.

 

(g)   Non-income producing security.

 

(h)   Issuer filed for bankruptcy and/or is in default of principal and/or interest payments.

 

(i)   Represents a step-up bond that pays an initial coupon rate for the first period and then a higher coupon rate for the following periods. Rate shown is as of report date.

 

(j)   Zero-coupon bond.

 

(k)   Convertible security.

 

(l)   Investments in issuers considered to be an affiliate of the Trust during the year ended October 31, 2014, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the 1940 Act, were as follows:

 

Affiliate      Shares Held
at October 31,
2013
       Net
Activity
       Shares Held
at October 31,
2014
       Income  

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, Institutional Class

       3,999,467           283,824           4,283,291         $ 2,660   

 

(m)   Represents the current yield as of report date.

 

Ÿ  

For Trust compliance purposes, the Trust’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the investment advisor. These definitions may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine such industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    19


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

 

 

Ÿ  

Reverse repurchase agreements outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Counterparty      Interest
Rate
       Trade
Date
       Maturity
Date1
       Face Value        Face Value
Including
Accrued
Interest
 

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        1/29/13           Open         $ 14,670,000         $ 14,761,423   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        3/28/13           Open           10,309,437           10,367,872   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           10,825,000           10,885,725   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           7,353,912           7,395,166   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           8,703,625           8,752,450   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           1,143,000           1,149,412   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           7,339,594           7,380,767   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           2,639,763           2,654,571   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           15,710,962           15,799,097   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           6,912,937           6,951,717   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           5,351,062           5,381,080   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           1,252,295           1,259,320   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           7,590,500           7,633,081   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           3,747,562           3,768,585   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           3,633,656           3,654,040   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           860,781           865,610   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           4,077,375           4,100,248   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           8,587,500           8,635,673   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           3,567,375           3,587,387   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           11,181,744           11,244,470   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           2,285,625           2,298,447   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           2,915,000           2,931,352   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           6,173,719           6,208,352   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           20,623,680           20,739,373   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           12,448,144           12,517,974   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           3,007,500           3,024,371   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           5,154,000           5,182,913   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           837,900           842,600   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           872,969           877,866   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           2,880,000           2,896,156   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           3,664,406           3,684,963   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           8,018,569           8,063,551   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           597,400           600,751   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           3,695,812           3,716,545   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           476,875           479,550   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           4,197,375           4,220,921   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/02/13           Open           532,125           535,110   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        4/23/13           Open           7,076,875           7,115,198   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        8/23/13           Open           2,055,000           2,063,691   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        10/22/13           Open           17,741,250           17,805,759   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        10/22/13           Open           16,593,750           16,654,087   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.32        2/05/14           Open           956,709           958,997   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.33        2/10/14           Open           6,197,000           6,211,940   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        2/28/14           Open           7,944,000           7,962,999   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        3/17/14           Open           9,813,000           9,834,223   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.16        4/16/14           Open           3,400,000           3,402,001   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.30        5/08/14           Open           9,646,000           9,660,228   

UBS Securities LLC

       (0.50 )%         5/13/14           Open           2,016,000           2,011,212   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.32        5/13/14           Open           8,649,000           8,662,146   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.32        5/13/14           Open           2,182,000           2,185,317   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.32        5/13/14           Open           7,149,000           7,159,866   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.34        5/13/14           Open           1,256,000           1,258,028   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.34        5/13/14           Open           10,604,000           10,621,125   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.34        5/13/14           Open           683,000           684,103   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.34        5/13/14           Open           5,229,000           5,237,445   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.34        5/13/14           Open           4,668,000           4,675,539   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           10,880,000           10,898,088   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           6,046,000           6,056,051   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           1,115,000           1,116,854   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           6,061,000           6,071,076   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           5,546,000           5,555,220   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           3,255,000           3,260,411   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           23,285,000           23,323,711   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.35        5/13/14           Open           11,160,000           11,178,554   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
20    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

 

Reverse repurchase agreements outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows (concluded):

 

Counterparty      Interest
Rate
       Trade
Date
       Maturity
Date1
       Face Value        Face Value
Including
Accrued
Interest
 

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        5/14/14           Open         $ 6,234,000         $ 6,247,247   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        5/14/14           Open           1,213,000           1,216,322   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        5/14/14           Open           2,791,000           2,798,908   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        5/14/14           Open           11,233,000           11,264,296   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.40        5/27/14           Open           6,792,000           6,803,924   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        5/28/14           Open           6,960,000           6,970,320   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        5/30/14           Open           3,510,000           3,515,138   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       (1.75 )%         6/25/14           Open           1,319,870           1,311,593   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        6/26/14           Open           13,680,000           13,696,538   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        6/30/14           Open           4,664,400           4,669,863   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        6/30/14           Open           3,324,750           3,328,644   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.40        7/01/14           Open           10,010,000           10,023,680   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        7/07/14           Open           8,155,000           8,163,934   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        7/07/14           Open           12,217,000           12,230,384   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.35        7/07/14           Open           5,672,000           5,678,397   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.10        7/22/14           Open           349,563           349,662   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.07        7/28/14           Open           1,886,138           1,886,490   

HSBC Securities (USA), Inc.

       0.40        7/31/14           Open           11,957,143           11,969,499   

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc.

       0.15        7/31/14           Open           8,833,813           8,837,236   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.42        8/04/14           Open           5,936,000           5,942,164   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.40        8/08/14           Open           1,119,000           1,120,020   

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc.

       (0.30 )%         8/08/14           Open           1,235,000           1,234,156   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        8/12/14           Open           5,675,000           5,679,341   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.38        8/12/14           Open           4,625,000           4,628,954   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.38        8/12/14           Open           2,035,000           2,036,740   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       (1.00 )%         8/22/14           Open           2,817,250           2,811,694   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        9/11/14           Open           10,797,300           10,802,501   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.09        9/18/14           Open           5,092,688           5,093,248   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.35        9/23/14           Open           5,162,000           5,163,957   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.35        9/23/14           Open           4,782,000           4,783,813   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        9/30/14           Open           10,459,250           10,462,411   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.42        10/02/14           Open           4,517,000           4,518,528   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.42        10/02/14           Open           2,848,000           2,848,964   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.40        10/07/14           Open           13,545,000           13,548,763   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.35        10/07/14           Open           11,991,000           11,993,914   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.35        10/07/14           Open           7,463,000           7,464,814   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.20        10/07/14           Open           8,277,000           8,278,150   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.35        10/07/14           Open           4,347,500           4,348,557   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.42        10/08/14           Open           3,985,000           3,986,116   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.10        10/28/14           Open           3,332,000           3,332,028   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.33        10/28/14           Open           5,630,000           5,630,155   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.33        10/28/14           Open           5,381,000           5,381,148   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        10/28/14           Open           9,428,000           9,428,267   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        10/28/14           Open           11,100,000           11,100,315   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        10/28/14           Open           15,615,000           15,615,442   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        10/28/14           Open           5,034,000           5,034,143   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        10/28/14           Open           3,288,000           3,288,093   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        10/28/14           Open           2,966,000           2,966,084   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        10/28/14           Open           6,361,000           6,361,180   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        10/29/14           Open           734,000           734,227   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        10/29/14           Open           9,152,000           9,152,231   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        10/29/14           Open           2,514,000           2,514,236   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        10/29/14           Open           4,668,000           4,668,240   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        10/29/14           Open           4,956,000           4,956,244   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        10/29/14           Open           4,995,000           4,995,248   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.35        10/29/14           Open           5,182,000           5,182,253   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        10/30/14           Open           3,480,000           3,480,033   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        10/30/14           Open           3,389,025           3,389,057   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        10/30/14           Open           8,162,000           8,162,077   

Total

                    $ 757,925,453         $ 759,751,939   
                   

 

 

 

 

1   Certain agreements have no stated maturity and can be terminated by either party at any time.

      

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    21


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

 

 

Ÿ  

Financial futures contracts outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Contracts
Purchased (Sold)
    Issue   Exchange   Expiration   Notional Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
  (1,350   90-Day Euro-Dollar   Chicago Mercantile   March 2016     USD    333,871,875      $ (778,342
  (283   Ultra Long U.S. Treasury Bond   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD      44,377,938        119,028   
  (64   Long U.S. Treasury Bond   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD        9,030,000        235,926   
  168      2-Year U.S. Treasury Note   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD      36,886,500        108,026   
  652      10-Year U.S. Treasury Note   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD      82,386,313        (189,900
  1,347      5-Year U.S. Treasury Note   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD    160,871,790        929,909   
  Total              $ 424,647   
         

 

 

 

 

Ÿ  

Exchange-traded options purchased as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Description      Put/
Call
     Strike Price        Expiration
Date
       Contracts        Market
Value
 

90-Day Euro-Dollar

     Put        USD    98.00           12/14/15           1,698         $ 106,125   

90-Day Euro-Dollar

     Put        USD    99.00           12/14/15           1,698           689,812   

Total

                         $ 795,937   
                        

 

 

 

 

Ÿ  

OTC interest rate swaptions purchased as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Description    Counterparty    Put/
Call
     Exercise
Rate
    Pay/Receive
Exercise Rate
   Floating Rate
Index
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
(000)
       Market
Value
 

5-Year Interest Rate Swap

   JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A.      Put         4.50   Pay      3-month LIBOR         8/07/18         USD    203,300         $ 2,573,406   

 

Ÿ  

Exchange-traded options written as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Description      Put/
Call
     Strike Price        Expiration
Date
       Contracts        Market
Value
 

90-Day Euro-Dollar

     Put        USD    98.50           12/14/15           3,396         $ (530,625

 

Ÿ  

OTC interest rate swaptions written as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Description    Counterparty    Put/
Call
     Exercise
Rate
    Pay/Receive
Exercise Rate
   Floating Rate
Index
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
(000)
       Market
Value
 

5-Year Interest Rate Swap

   JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A.      Put         6.00   Receive      3-month LIBOR         8/07/18         USD    406,600         $ (1,913,634

 

Ÿ  

Centrally cleared interest rate swaps outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Fixed
Rate
  Floating
Rate
  Clearinghouse   Effective
Date
  Expiration
Date
 

Notional
Amount
(000)

    Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
1.45%1   3-month LIBOR   Chicago Mercantile   N/A   10/28/18     USD    13,800      $ 18,314   
1.50%1   3-month LIBOR   Chicago Mercantile   N/A   11/30/18     USD    10,700        7,293   
1.78%1   3-month LIBOR   Chicago Mercantile   N/A   1/17/19     USD    22,900        (217,704
2.21%1   3-month LIBOR   Chicago Mercantile   N/A   10/18/20     USD    65,000        (926,871
2.79%1   3-month LIBOR   Chicago Mercantile   N/A   10/11/23     USD    68,000        (2,337,123
2.79%1   3-month LIBOR   Chicago Mercantile   N/A   11/18/23     USD    10,600        (355,037
3.03%1   3-month LIBOR   Chicago Mercantile   N/A   1/08/24     USD    10,900        (579,680
Total             $ (4,390,808
           

 

 

 

1    Trust pays the fixed rate and receives the floating rate.

       

 

Ÿ  

OTC credit default swaps — buy protection outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Issuer   Pay
Fixed Rate
    Counterparty   Expiration
Date
  Notional
Amount
(000)
    Market
Value
    Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

Southwest Airlines Co.

    1.00   Goldman Sachs Bank USA   12/20/16     USD    2,535      $ (44,546   $ 51,583      $ (96,129

Southwest Airlines Co.

    1.00   Goldman Sachs International   12/20/16     USD    1,465        (25,743     29,811        (55,554

Southwest Airlines Co.

    1.00   Royal Bank of Scotland PLC   12/20/16     USD    4,000        (70,330     88,521        (158,851

STMicro Electronics

    1.00   Barclays Bank PLC   6/20/17     EUR    1,500        (8,716     32,491        (41,207

General Dynamic Corp.

    1.00   Credit Suisse International   9/20/17     USD    5,585        (140,057     (80,104     (59,953

Lockheed Martin Corp.

    1.00   Credit Suisse International   9/20/17     USD    5,585        (145,133     (27,873     (117,260

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
22    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

 

OTC credit default swaps — buy protection outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows (concluded):

 

Issuer   Pay
Fixed Rate
    Counterparty     Expiration
Date
  Notional
Amount
(000)
    Market
Value
    Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    1.00     Credit Suisse International      9/20/17     USD      4,715      $ (122,592   $ (62,215   $ (60,377

Raytheon Co.

    1.00     Credit Suisse International      9/20/17     USD      4,715        (121,659     (66,271     (55,388

Humana, Inc.

    1.00     Goldman Sachs Bank USA      9/20/17     USD      4,500        (94,592     42,792        (137,384

Humana, Inc.

    1.00     Goldman Sachs International      9/20/17     USD      2,800        (58,857     26,626        (85,483

Cigna Corp.

    1.00     Goldman Sachs Bank USA      9/20/17     USD      4,500        (111,054     (6,218     (104,836

Cigna Corp.

    1.00     Goldman Sachs International      9/20/17     USD      2,800        (69,100     (3,869     (65,231

YUM! Brands, Inc.

    1.00     Deutsche Bank AG      3/20/19     USD    20,000        (493,299     (327,708     (165,591

Citigroup, Inc.

    1.00     Deutsche Bank AG      3/20/19     USD    16,700        (281,372     (62,490     (218,882

Kohl’s Corp.

    1.00     JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A.      6/20/19     USD      5,345        3,809        99,169        (95,360

Total

          $ (1,783,241   $ (265,755   $ (1,517,486
         

 

 

 

 

Ÿ  

OTC credit default swaps — sold protection outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Issuer   Receive
Fixed Rate
    Counterparty   Expiration
Date
  Credit
Rating1
  Notional Amount
(000)2
    Market
Value
    Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

    1.00   Credit Suisse International   6/20/17   BBB   USD 2,425      $ 36,354      $ (63,939   $ 100,293   

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

    1.00   Morgan Stanley Capital Services LLC   6/20/17   BBB   USD 10        150        (291     441   

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

    1.00   UBS AG   6/20/17   BBB   USD 994        14,901        (28,507     43,408   

Comcast Corp.

    1.00   Credit Suisse International   9/20/17   A-   USD 12,200        293,551        30,345        263,206   

United Health Group, Inc.

    1.00   Goldman Sachs Bank USA   9/20/17   A+   USD 4,500        108,679        (6,191     114,870   

United Health Group, Inc.

    1.00   Goldman Sachs International   9/20/17   A+   USD 2,800        67,622        (3,853     71,475   

WellPoint, Inc.

    1.00   Goldman Sachs Bank USA   9/20/17   A-   USD 4,500        102,938        (24,609     127,547   

WellPoint, Inc.

    1.00   Goldman Sachs International   9/20/17   A-   USD 2,800        64,050        (15,312     79,362   

MetLife, Inc.

    1.00   Deutsche Bank AG   3/20/18   A-   USD 3,025        57,140        (83,014     140,154   

Bank of America Corp.

    1.00   Deutsche Bank AG   3/20/19   A-   USD 16,700        270,936        111,420        159,516   

Valero Energy Corporation

    1.00   Citibank N.A.   9/20/19   BBB   USD 24        104        200        (96

Valero Energy Corporation

    1.00   Barclays Bank PLC   9/20/19   BBB   USD 40        173        184        (11

Valero Energy Corporation

    1.00   Barclays Bank PLC   9/20/19   BBB   USD 3        13        13          

Valero Energy Corporation

    1.00   Barclays Bank PLC   9/20/19   BBB   USD 110        480        457        23   

Devon Energy Corp.

    1.00   BNP Paribas S.A.   12/20/19   BBB+   USD     13,014        24,607               24,607   

Devon Energy Corp.

    1.00   BNP Paribas S.A.   12/20/19   BBB+   USD 190        360        276        84   

Total

            $ 1,042,058      $ (82,821   $ 1,124,879   
           

 

 

 

1    Using Standard & Poor’s (“S&P’s”) rating of the issuer.

       

 

2    The maximum potential amount the Trust may pay should a negative credit event take place as defined under the terms of the agreement.

       

 

 

Ÿ  

Fair Value Measurements — Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments and derivative financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a disclosure hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The categorization of a value determined for investments and derivative financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the investment and derivative financial instrument and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

 

  Ÿ  

Level 1 — unadjusted quoted prices in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that the Trust has the ability to access

 

  Ÿ  

Level 2 — other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs)

 

  Ÿ  

Level 3 — unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Trust’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments and derivative financial instruments)

Changes in valuation techniques may result in transfers into or out of an assigned level within the disclosure hierarchy. In accordance with the Trust’s policy, transfers between different levels of the fair value disclosure hierarchy are deemed to have occurred as of the beginning of the reporting period. For information about the Trust’s policy regarding valuation of investments and derivative financial instruments, please refer to Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    23


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

 

The following tables summarize the Trust’s investments and derivative financial instruments categorized in the disclosure hierarchy as of October 31, 2014:

 

     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3        Total  

Assets:

                
Investments:                 

Long-Term Investments:

                

Asset-Backed Securities

            $ 67,107,199         $ 5,930,350         $ 73,037,549   

Corporate Bonds

              1,860,591,330           21,431,574           1,882,022,904   

Foreign Agency Obligations

              12,240,650                     12,240,650   

Municipal Bonds

              18,403,250                     18,403,250   

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Securities

              3,536,314                     3,536,314   

U.S. Treasury Obligations

              22,412,649                     22,412,649   

Preferred Securities

  $ 57,700,817           332,264,444                     389,965,261   

Short-Term Securities

    4,283,291                               4,283,291   

Options Purchased:

                

Interest rate contracts

    795,937           2,573,406                     3,369,343   
 

 

 

 

Total

  $ 62,780,045         $ 2,319,129,242         $ 27,361,924         $ 2,409,271,211   
 

 

 

 
                
     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3        Total  
Derivative Financial Instruments1                 

Assets:

                

Credit contracts

            $ 1,124,986                   $ 1,124,986   

Interest rate contracts

  $ 1,392,889           25,607                     1,418,496   

Liabilities:

                

Credit contracts

              (1,517,593                  (1,517,593

Interest rate contracts

    (1,498,867        (6,330,049                  (7,828,916
 

 

 

 

Total

  $ (105,978      $ (6,697,049                $ (6,803,027
 

 

 

 

1    Derivative financial instruments are swaps, financial futures contracts and options written. Swaps and financial futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument and options written are shown at value.

        

 

The Trust may hold assets and/or liabilities in which the fair value approximates the carrying amount for financial statement purposes. As of October 31, 2014, such assets and/or liabilities are categorized within the disclosure hierarchy as follows:

 

   

     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3        Total  

Assets:

                

Foreign currency at value

  $ 99                             $ 99   

Cash pledged as collateral for OTC derivatives

    500,000                               500,000   

Cash pledged for centrally cleared swaps

    5,150,000                               5,150,000   

Cash pledged for financial futures contracts

    353,000                               353,000   

Liabilities:

                

Bank overdraft

            $ (26,363                  (26,363

Cash received as collateral for OTC derivatives

              (740,000                  (740,000

Reverse repurchase agreements

              (759,751,939                  (759,751,939
 

 

 

 

Total

  $ 6,003,099         $ (760,518,302                $ (754,515,203
 

 

 

 

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the year ended October 31, 2014.

A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented when the Trust had a significant amount of Level 3 investments at the beginning and/or end of the year in relation to net assets. The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for which significant unobservable inputs were used in determining fair value:

 

     Asset-Backed
Securities
       Corporate
Bonds
       Total  

Assets:

           

Opening Balance, as of October 31, 2013

  $ 8,505,000         $ 16,746,250         $ 25,251,250   

Transfers into Level 3

                          

Transfers out of Level 31

    (8,505,000                  (8,505,000

Accrued discounts/premiums

    906                     906   

Net realized gain (loss)

                          

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation2,3

    (6,781        268,361           261,580   

Purchases

    5,936,225           4,416,963           10,353,188   

Sales

                          
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Closing Balance, as of October 31, 2014

  $ 5,930,350         $ 21,431,574         $ 27,361,924   
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments still held at October 31, 20143

  $ (6,781      $ 268,361         $ 261,580   
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

1   As of October 31, 2013, the Trust used significant unobservable inputs in determining the value of certain investments. As of October 31, 2014, the Trust used observable inputs in determining the value of the same investments. As a result, investments with a beginning of period value of $8,505,000 transferred from Level 3 to Level 2 in the disclosure hierarchy.

        

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
24    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (concluded)

  

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

 

 

2   Included in the related net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation in the Statements of Operations.

 

3   Any difference between Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation and Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments still held at October 31, 2014 is generally due to investments no longer held or categorized as Level 3 at period end.

The Trust’s investments that are categorized as Level 3 were valued utilizing third party pricing information without adjustment. Such valuations are based on unobservable inputs. A significant change in third party information could result in a significantly lower or higher value of such Level 3 investments.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    25


Consolidated Schedule of Investments October 31, 2014

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Common Stocks               
Shares
    Value  

Auto Components — 0.0%

      

Lear Corp.

             402      $ 37,185   

Construction & Engineering — 0.0%

      

USI United Subcontractors

             8,067        153,282   

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.6%

      

Cengage Thomson Learning

       19,588        541,119   

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Co. (a)

       75,047        1,501,690   
      

 

 

 
                       2,042,809   

Household Durables — 0.0%

      

Berkline Benchcraft Equity LLC

             6,155          

Paper & Forest Products — 0.2%

      

Ainsworth Lumber Co. Ltd. (a)

       220,483        508,634   

Ainsworth Lumber Co. Ltd. (a)(b)

       62,685        144,608   
      

 

 

 
                       653,242   
Total Common Stocks — 0.8%                2,886,518   
      
                          
Asset-Backed Securities   

Par  

(000)

        

ALM Loan Funding, Series 2013-7RA (b)(c):

      

Class C, 3.68%, 4/24/24

     USD        630        588,337   

Class D, 5.23%, 4/24/24

       550        499,578   

ALM XIV Ltd., Series 2014-14A (b)(c):

      

Class B, 3.18%, 7/28/26

       563        540,797   

Class C, 3.68%, 7/28/26

       713        655,018   

Apidos CDO XI, Series 2012-11A, Class D,
4.48%, 1/17/23 (b)(c)

       500        490,533   

Atlas Senior Loan Fund Ltd., Series 2014-6A, Class D, 3.96%, 10/15/26 (b)(c)

       525        479,139   

Atrium CDO Corp., Series 9A, Class D, 3.74%, 2/28/24 (b)(c)

       500        472,862   

Carlyle Global Market Strategies CLO Ltd. (b)(c):

      

Series 2012-4A, Class D, 4.73%, 1/20/25

       450        449,989   

Series 2013-1A, Class C, 4.23%, 2/14/25

       250        240,701   

Cent CLO 22, Ltd., Series 2014-22A, Class C, 3.98%, 11/07/26 (b)(c)

       750        715,650   

Fraser Sullivan CLO VII Ltd., Series 2012-7A, Class C, 4.23%, 4/20/23 (b)(c)

       575        562,655   

ING Investment Management, Series 2012-2A, Class D, 4.78%, 10/15/22 (b)(c)

       950        950,885   

Madison Park Funding XI Ltd., Series 2013-11A, Class D, 3.73%, 10/23/25 (b)(c)

       250        235,862   

North End CLO Ltd., Series 2013-1A, Class D, 3.73%, 7/17/25 (b)(c)

       500        466,391   

Octagon Investment Partners XVII Ltd., Series 2013-1A, Class D,
3.43%, 10/25/25 (b)(c)

       750        681,886   

OZLM Funding Ltd., Series 2012-2A, Class C, 4.58%, 10/30/23 (b)(c)

       500        488,090   

Symphony CLO Ltd., Class D (b)(c):

      

Series 2012-10A, 5.48%, 7/23/23

       925        926,384   

Series 2012-9A, 4.48%, 4/16/22

             775        756,606   
Total Asset-Backed Securities — 3.0%                10,201,363   
      
                          
Corporate Bonds  

Airlines — 0.6%

      

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust, Series 2013-2, Class C, 6.00%, 1/15/17 (b)

       600        618,000   

US Airways Pass-Through Trust, Series 2012-2, Class C, 5.45%, 6/03/18

       1,585        1,600,850   
      

 

 

 
                       2,218,850   
Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Auto Components — 0.4%

      

Icahn Enterprises LP/Icahn Enterprises Finance Corp.:

      

3.50%, 3/15/17

     USD        410      $ 407,950   

4.88%, 3/15/19

       863        878,102   
      

 

 

 
                       1,286,052   

Capital Markets — 0.4%

      

Blackstone CQP Holdco LP, 9.30%, 3/18/19

       555        560,826   

E*Trade Financial Corp., 0.00%, 8/31/19 (b)(d)(e)

       439        947,142   
      

 

 

 
                       1,507,968   

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.2%

      

Avis Budget Car Rental LLC/Avis Budget Finance, Inc., 2.98%, 12/01/17 (c)

       179        179,233   

AWAS Aviation Capital Ltd., 7.00%, 10/17/16 (b)

       387        394,244   

United Rentals North America, Inc., 5.75%, 7/15/18

       210        219,975   
      

 

 

 
                       793,452   

Communications Equipment — 0.4%

      

Avaya, Inc., 7.00%, 4/01/19 (b)

       232        227,940   

Zayo Group LLC/Zayo Capital, Inc., 8.13%, 1/01/20

       1,010        1,078,175   
      

 

 

 
                       1,306,115   

Construction & Engineering — 0.1%

      

Safway Group Holding LLC/Safway Finance Corp., 7.00%, 5/15/18 (b)

             237        244,703   

Diversified Financial Services — 0.3%

      

Ally Financial, Inc., 2.91%, 7/18/16 (c)

             875        885,671   

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.3%

  

Level 3 Financing, Inc. (b):

      

3.82%, 1/15/18 (c)

       607        608,517   

6.13%, 1/15/21

       337        353,429   
      

 

 

 
                       961,946   

Energy Equipment & Services — 0.2%

      

Peabody Energy Corp., 6.00%, 11/15/18

             535        517,612   

Health Care Providers & Services — 0.8%

      

Care UK Health & Social Care PLC,
5.56%, 7/15/19 (c)

     GBP        482        717,082   

CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc., 6.88%, 2/01/22

     USD        192        206,880   

HCA, Inc., 5.88%, 5/01/23

       225        241,875   

Tenet Healthcare Corp. (b):

      

5.00%, 3/01/19

       850        851,062   

5.50%, 3/01/19

       635        649,288   
      

 

 

 
                       2,666,187   

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 0.4%

      

Caesars Entertainment Operating Co., Inc., 9.00%, 2/15/20

             1,771        1,332,530   

Household Durables — 0.0%

      

Berkline/Benchcraft LLC, 1.00%, 11/03/14 (a)(f)

             400          

Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.3%

  

Calpine Corp., 6.00%, 1/15/22 (b)

       212        228,430   

Dynegy Finance I, Inc./Dynegy Finance II, Inc., 6.75%, 11/01/19 (b)

       850        879,750   
      

 

 

 
                       1,108,180   

Media — 0.2%

      

NAI Entertainment Holdings/NAI Entertainment Holdings Finance Corp., 5.00%, 8/01/18 (b)

       248        254,200   

Numericable Group SA, 6.00%, 5/15/22 (b)

       512        523,520   
      

 

 

 
                       777,720   

Metals & Mining — 0.0%

      

Novelis, Inc., 8.38%, 12/15/17

             155        161,975   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
26    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 0.2%

      

CONSOL Energy, Inc., 5.88%, 4/15/22 (b)

     USD        380      $ 385,700   

EP Energy LLC/Everest Acquisition Finance, Inc., 6.88%, 5/01/19

       385        400,400   
      

 

 

 
                       786,100   

Road & Rail — 0.2%

      

Florida East Coast Holdings Corp.,
6.75%, 5/01/19 (b)

             535        552,056   

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.3%

      

Digicel Group Ltd., 8.25%, 9/30/20 (b)

       830        867,350   

T-Mobile USA, Inc., 6.13%, 1/15/22

       135        139,894   
      

 

 

 
                       1,007,244   
Total Corporate Bonds — 5.3%        18,114,361   
      
                          
Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)                      

Aerospace & Defense — 1.7%

      

DigitalGlobe, Inc., New Term Loan B,
3.75%, 1/31/20

       1,345        1,335,705   

TASC, Inc., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 12.00%, 5/30/21

       725        738,594   

Transdigm, Inc.:

      

Term Loan C, 3.75%, 2/28/20

       511        502,041   

Term Loan D, 3.75%, 6/04/21

       524        514,413   

TransUnion LLC, Term Loan, 4.00%, 4/09/21

       2,900        2,862,371   
      

 

 

 
                       5,953,124   

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.5%

      

CEVA Group PLC, Synthetic LC, 6.50%, 3/19/21

       450        426,516   

CEVA Intercompany BV, Dutch Term Loan,
6.50%, 3/19/21

       472        447,532   

CEVA Logistics Canada ULC, Canadian Term Loan,
6.50%, 3/19/21

       81        77,160   

CEVA Logistics US Holdings, Inc., Term Loan,
6.50%, 3/19/21

       651        617,286   
      

 

 

 
                       1,568,494   

Airlines — 0.5%

      

Northwest Airlines, Inc.:

      

2.18%, 3/10/17

       395        382,656   

1.56%, 9/10/18

       580        551,091   

US Airways Group, Inc., New Term Loan B1,
3.50%, 5/23/19

       693        676,292   
      

 

 

 
                       1,610,039   

Auto Components — 4.3%

      

Autoparts Holdings Ltd.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 6.50%, 7/28/17

       1,584        1,584,812   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 10.50%, 1/29/18

       650        634,290   

Dayco Products LLC, New Term Loan B,
5.25%, 12/12/19

       965        961,125   

FPC Holdings, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan,
5.25%, 11/19/19

       898        878,780   

Gates Global, Inc., Term Loan B,
4.25%, 7/05/21

       5,420        5,352,250   

GPX International Tire Corp., Term Loan (a)(f):

      

12.25%, 3/31/2012

       274          

PIK, 13.00%, 3/30/2012

       4          

INA Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Term Loan E,
4.25%, 5/15/20

       1,535        1,530,211   

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., New 2nd Lien Term Loan, 4.75%, 4/30/19

       1,705        1,708,734   

Transtar Holding Co., 1st Lien Term Loan,
5.75%, 10/09/18

       1,282        1,273,354   
Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Auto Components (concluded)

      

UCI International, Inc., New Term Loan B,
5.50%, 7/26/17

     USD        914      $ 911,522   
      

 

 

 
                       14,835,078   

Automobiles — 0.3%

      

Chrysler Group LLC:

      

2018 Term Loan B, 3.25%, 12/31/18

       502        497,073   

New Term Loan B, 3.50%, 5/24/17

       522        519,256   
      

 

 

 
                       1,016,329   

Banks — 0.3%

      

Redtop Acquisitions Ltd.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 12/03/20

       873        869,033   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.25%, 6/03/21

       184        183,612   
      

 

 

 
                       1,052,645   

Beverages — 0.0%

      

Le-Nature’s, Inc., Tranche B Term Loan,
10.25%, 3/01/2011 (a)(f)

             1,000          

Building Products — 3.6%

      

Continental Building Products LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.00%, 8/28/20

       955        926,670   

CPG International, Inc., New Term Loan,
4.75%, 9/30/20

       2,508        2,484,665   

GYP Holdings III Corp., 1st Lien Term Loan,
4.75%, 4/01/21

       891        870,488   

Interline Brands, Inc., 2021 Term Loan,
4.00%, 3/17/21

       1,065        1,039,812   

Jeld-Wen, Inc., Term Loan B, 5.25%, 10/15/21

       1,875        1,860,937   

Nortek, Inc., New Term Loan, 3.75%, 10/30/20

       1,277        1,251,660   

Ply Gem Industries, Inc., Term Loan,
4.00%, 2/01/21

       617        604,951   

Quikrete Holdings, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan,
4.00%, 9/28/20

       1,053        1,042,335   

United Subcontractors, Inc., Term Loan,
4.24%, 6/30/15

       214        203,704   

Wilsonart LLC:

      

Incremental Term Loan B2, 4.00%, 10/31/19

       511        502,617   

Term Loan B, 4.00%, 10/31/19

       1,528        1,502,320   
      

 

 

 
                       12,290,159   

Capital Markets — 0.5%

      

Affinion Group, Inc.:

      

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.50%, 10/12/18

       635        591,079   

Term Loan B, 6.75%, 4/30/18

       803        776,348   

American Capital Holdings, Inc., 2017 Term Loan,
3.50%, 8/22/17

       486        480,779   
      

 

 

 
                       1,848,206   

Chemicals — 4.7%

      

Allnex (Luxembourg) & Cy SCA, Term Loan B1,
4.50%, 10/03/19

       592        587,141   

Allnex USA, Inc., Term Loan B2, 4.50%, 10/03/19

       307        304,639   

Axalta Coating Systems US Holdings, Inc., Term Loan, 3.75%, 2/01/20

       1,193        1,172,401   

CeramTec Acquisition Corp., Term Loan B2,
4.25%, 8/28/20

       71        70,802   

Chemtura Corp., Term Loan B, 3.50%, 8/27/16

       356        355,127   

Chromaflo Technologies Corp.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 12/02/19

       695        691,276   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.25%, 5/30/20

       295        295,000   

Evergreen Acqco 1 LP, New Term Loan,
5.00%, 7/09/19

       1,257        1,248,097   

INEOS US Finance LLC:

      

3 Year Term Loan, 2.15%, 5/04/15

       228        227,650   

6 Year Term Loan, 3.75%, 5/04/18

       521        513,892   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    27


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Chemicals (concluded)

      

MacDermid, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan,
4.00%, 6/07/20

     USD        1,731      $ 1,693,061   

Minerals Technologies Inc., Term Loan B,
4.00%, 5/09/21

       1,345        1,339,242   

Nexeo Solutions LLC, Term Loan B, 5.00%, 9/08/17

       1,172        1,155,855   

OXEA Finance LLC:

      

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.25%, 7/15/20

       845        817,538   

Term Loan B2, 4.25%, 1/15/20

       1,416        1,378,538   

Royal Adhesives and Sealants LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan, 5.50%, 7/31/18

       412        413,353   

Solenis International LP:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 7/31/21

       945        930,825   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 7.75%, 7/31/22

       1,055        1,031,263   

Tata Chemicals North America, Inc., Term Loan B,
3.75%, 8/07/20

       351        343,551   

Tronox Pigments (Netherlands) BV, 2013 Term Loan,
4.00%, 3/19/20

       942        932,133   

Univar, Inc., Term Loan B, 5.00%, 6/30/17

       601        596,666   
      

 

 

 
                       16,098,050   

Commercial Services & Supplies — 5.6%

  

 

ADS Waste Holdings, Inc., Term Loan,
3.75%, 10/09/19

       1,879        1,837,614   

ARAMARK Corp., Term Loan F, 3.25%, 2/24/21

       530        521,886   

ARAMARK Services, Inc., Term Loan E, 3.25%, 9/07/19

       1,698        1,672,649   

Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc.,
New Term Loan B, 4.75%, 11/26/20

       2,307        2,291,228   

Catalent Pharma Solutions, Inc.:

      

New Term Loan, 6.50%, 12/29/17

       44        44,071   

Term Loan B, 4.50%, 5/20/21

       2,170        2,165,050   

Connolly Corp.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.00%, 5/14/21

       1,845        1,833,841   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.00%, 5/14/22

       900        896,625   

KAR Auction Services, Inc., Term Loan B2,
3.50%, 3/11/21

       825        816,874   

Koosharem LLC, Exit Term Loan, 7.50%, 5/16/20

       1,446        1,428,295   

Livingston International, Inc.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.00%, 4/16/19

       810        779,384   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.00%, 4/20/20

       268        249,046   

Spin Holdco, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.25%, 11/14/19

       2,812        2,780,893   

US Ecology, Inc., Term Loan, 3.75%, 6/17/21

       574        570,219   

West Corp., Term Loan B10, 3.25%, 6/30/18

       1,405        1,383,328   
      

 

 

 
                       19,271,003   

Communications Equipment — 3.5%

  

 

Amaya Holdings BV:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.00%, 8/01/21

       510        505,645   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.00%, 8/01/22

       3,550        3,582,553   

Applied Systems, Inc.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 1/25/21

       875        865,645   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 7.50%, 1/23/22

       230        228,372   

Avaya, Inc., Extended Term Loan B3, 4.65%, 10/26/17

       841        813,644   

CommScope, Inc., Term Loan B3, 2.73%, 1/21/17

       418        415,715   

Telesat Canada, Term Loan A, 4.37%, 3/24/17

     CAD        2,564        2,240,623   

Zayo Group LLC/Zayo Capital, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 7/02/19

     USD        3,272        3,241,052   
      

 

 

 
                       11,893,249   

Construction & Engineering — 0.5%

      

AECOM Technology Corp., Term Loan B, 3.75%, 10/15/21

       515        514,586   

BakerCorp International, Inc., Term Loan, 4.25%, 2/14/20

       449        434,425   

Centaur Acquisition LLC, New 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.75%, 2/15/20

       745        750,587   
      

 

 

 
                       1,699,598   
Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Construction Materials — 1.6%

      

Filtration Group Corp., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 11/21/20

     USD        586      $ 583,233   

HD Supply, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 6/28/18

       4,454        4,407,139   

McJunkin Red Man Corp., New Term Loan, 5.00%, 11/08/19

       396        396,495   
      

 

 

 
                       5,386,867   

Containers & Packaging — 1.0%

      

Ardagh Holdings USA, Inc., Incremental Term Loan, 4.00%, 12/17/19

       562        556,087   

Berry Plastics Holding Corp., Term Loan E, 3.75%, 1/06/21

       1,672        1,641,349   

BWAY Holding Company, Inc., New Term Loan B, 5.50%, 8/14/20

       918        921,141   

Rexam PLC, 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 5/02/21

       474        469,074   
      

 

 

 
                       3,587,651   

Distributors — 1.4%

      

ABC Supply Co., Inc., Term Loan, 3.50%, 4/16/20

       2,826        2,760,509   

American Tire Distributors Holdings, Inc., Term Loan B, 5.75%, 6/01/18

       886        884,749   

Crossmark Holdings, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 12/20/19

       491        478,050   

VWR Funding, Inc., Term Loan, 3.40%, 4/03/17

       722        714,984   
      

 

 

 
                       4,838,292   

Diversified Consumer Services — 2.7%

      

Allied Security Holdings LLC:

      

New 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 2/12/21

       1,757        1,734,102   

New 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.00%, 8/13/21

       254        251,472   

Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc., Term Loan B, 3.75%, 1/30/20

       1,479        1,459,070   

Garda World Securities Corp.:

      

Delayed Draw Term Loan, 4.00%, 11/06/20

       138        133,889   

New Term Loan B, 4.00%, 11/06/20

       538        523,385   

Iglo Foods Midco Ltd., Term Loan B,
4.26%, 6/30/20

     EUR        1,020        1,249,581   

ROC Finance LLC, Term Loan, 5.00%, 6/20/19

     USD        653        624,611   

ServiceMaster Company, 2014 Term Loan B, 4.25%, 7/01/21

       2,320        2,297,287   

Weight Watchers International, Inc., Term Loan B2, 4.00%, 4/02/20

       1,231        938,828   
      

 

 

 
                       9,212,225   

Diversified Financial Services — 2.6%

      

AssuredPartners Capital, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 3/31/21

       910        903,175   

RPI Finance Trust, Term Loan B3, 3.25%, 11/09/18

       235        233,328   

SAM Finance Luxembourg Sarl, Term Loan, 4.25%, 12/17/20

       1,563        1,556,356   

SIG Euro Holdings AG & Co. KG, 2013 Term Loan, 4.25%, 12/02/18

     EUR        4,913        6,151,460   
      

 

 

 
                       8,844,319   

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 4.6%

      

Consolidated Communications, Inc., New Term Loan B, 4.25%, 12/23/20

     USD        1,847        1,837,429   

Hawaiian Telcom Communications, Inc., Term Loan B, 5.00%, 6/06/19

       1,441        1,437,145   

Integra Telecom, Inc.:

      

2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.75%, 2/22/20

       685        673,012   

Term Loan B, 5.25%, 2/22/19

       1,216        1,211,305   

Level 3 Financing, Inc.:

      

2020 Term Loan B, 4.00%, 1/15/20

       4,685        4,661,575   

Incremental Term Loan B5, 4.50%, 1/31/22

       2,245        2,254,115   

New 2019 Term Loan, 4.00%, 8/01/19

       902        896,082   

Syniverse Holdings, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 4/23/19

       1,183        1,159,905   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
28    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Diversified Telecommunication Services (concluded)

  

   

US Telepacific Corp., New Term Loan B, 5.75%, 2/23/17

     USD        1,865      $ 1,857,579   
      

 

 

 
                       15,988,147   

Electric Utilities — 0.3%

      

American Energy — Utica LLC:

      

2nd Lien Delayed Draw Term Loan, 11.00%, 9/30/18

       134        133,660   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 5.50%, 9/30/18

       621        639,220   

Incremental 2nd Lien Term Loan, 11.00%, 9/30/18

       132        131,825   
      

 

 

 
                       904,705   

Electrical Equipment — 1.5%

      

Southwire Co., Term Loan, 3.25%, 2/10/21

       612        594,332   

Texas Competitive Electric Holdings Co. LLC:

      

DIP Term Loan, 3.75%, 5/05/16

       1,560        1,568,248   

Extended Term Loan, 4.65%, 10/10/1 (f)

       4,025        2,926,738   
      

 

 

 
                       5,089,318   

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.5%

  

CDW LLC, Term Loan, 3.25%, 4/29/20

             1,759        1,718,139   

Energy Equipment & Services — 1.1%

      

Dynegy Holdings, Inc., Term Loan B2, 4.00%, 4/23/20

       2,552        2,534,510   

Exgen Texas Power LLC, Term Loan B, 5.75%, 9/16/21

       211        210,517   

MEG Energy Corp., Refinancing Term Loan, 3.75%, 3/31/20

       956        939,038   
      

 

 

 
                       3,684,065   

Food & Staples Retailing — 1.9%

      

Alliance Boots Holdings Ltd., Term Loan B1, 3.48%, 7/09/15

     GBP        2,435        3,889,430   

New Albertson’s, Inc., Term Loan, 4.75%, 6/27/21

     USD        900        888,192   

Rite Aid Corp., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 5.75%, 8/21/20

       540        542,700   

Supervalu, Inc., Refinancing Term Loan B, 4.50%, 3/21/19

       1,079        1,064,072   
      

 

 

 
                       6,384,394   

Food Products — 3.3%

      

CTI Foods Holding Co. LLC, New 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 6/29/20

       515        506,435   

Del Monte Foods, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 2/18/21

       1,160        1,087,783   

Diamond Foods, Inc., New Term Loan, 4.25%, 8/20/18

       1,822        1,803,899   

Dole Food Co., Inc., New Term Loan B, 4.50%, 11/01/18

       1,459        1,452,116   

GFA Brands, Inc., New Term Loan B, 4.50%, 7/09/20

       292        286,393   

Hearthside Group Holdings LLC, Term Loan, 4.50%, 6/02/21

       1,322        1,312,608   

Performance Food Group Co., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 6.25%, 11/14/19

       1,013        1,009,040   

Pinnacle Foods Finance LLC:

      

Incremental Term Loan H, 3.25%, 4/29/20

       1,036        1,016,169   

Term Loan G, 3.25%, 4/29/20

       995        974,988   

Reddy Ice Corp.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 6.75%, 5/01/19

       1,487        1,383,235   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 10.75%, 11/01/19

       725        630,750   
      

 

 

 
                       11,463,416   

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 5.7%

      

Arysta LifeScience Corp., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 5/29/20

       1,413        1,406,269   
Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Health Care Equipment & Supplies (concluded)

      

Biomet, Inc., Term Loan B2, 3.65%, 7/25/17

     USD        1,361      $ 1,357,008   

Capsugel Holdings US, Inc., New Term Loan B, 3.50%, 8/01/18

       951        937,081   

DJO Finance LLC, 2017 Term Loan, 4.25%, 9/15/17

       2,288        2,275,055   

Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA, Term Loan B:

      

Incremental, 2.33%, 6/28/19

     EUR        318        397,005   

2.23%, 8/07/19

     USD        1,351        1,346,009   

The Hologic, Inc., New Term Loan B, 3.25%, 8/01/19

       2,186        2,172,448   

Immucor, Inc., Refinancing Term Loan B2, 5.00%, 8/17/18

       1,708        1,703,910   

Kinetic Concepts, Inc., Term Loan E1, 4.00%, 5/04/18

       317        314,031   

Leonardo Acquisition Corp., Term Loan, 4.25%, 1/31/21

       1,423        1,403,286   

Millennium Laboratories, Inc., Term Loan B, 5.25%, 4/16/21

       1,596        1,595,011   

National Vision, Inc.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 4.00%, 3/12/21

       1,674        1,626,226   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 6.75%, 3/11/22

       650        615,063   

Onex Carestream Finance LP, 2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.50%, 12/07/19

       39        38,597   

Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.75%, 6/30/21

       2,444        2,416,992   
      

 

 

 
                       19,603,991   

Health Care Providers & Services — 6.8%

      

Amedisys, Inc., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.50%, 6/25/20

       900        877,500   

American Renal Holdings, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 9/20/19

       621        609,060   

Amsurg Corp., 1st Lien Term Loan B, 3.75%, 7/16/21

       1,798        1,783,544   

Ardent Medical Services, Inc., Term Loan, 6.75%, 7/02/18

       649        649,420   

CHG Buyer Corp., New Term Loan, 4.25%, 11/19/19

       1,050        1,041,972   

CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc., Term Loan D, 4.25%, 1/27/21

       5,240        5,242,024   

ConvaTec, Inc., Term Loan, 4.00%, 12/22/16

       1,102        1,097,679   

DaVita HealthCare Partners, Inc., Term Loan B, 3.50%, 6/24/21

       5,920        5,866,230   

Envision Acquisition Co. LLC, Term Loan, 5.75%, 11/04/20

       629        628,650   

Envision Healthcare Corp., Term Loan, 4.00%, 5/25/18

       911        903,722   

Genesis HealthCare Corp., Term Loan B, 10.00%, 9/25/17

       527        542,782   

HCA, Inc., Extended Term Loan B4, 2.98%, 5/01/18

       327        325,008   

Ikaria, Inc.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.00%, 2/12/21

       174        174,345   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.75%, 2/14/22

       195        194,838   

inVentiv Health, Inc., Incremental Term Loan B3, 7.75%, 5/15/18

       240        236,741   

MPH Acquisition Holdings LLC, Term Loan, 4.00%, 3/31/21

       1,327        1,304,903   

National Mentor Holdings, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.75%, 1/31/21

       692        685,976   

Surgery Center Holdings, Inc., New 1st Lien Term Loan, 5.25%, 7/09/20

       597        596,316   

Surgical Care Affiliates, Inc., Class C Incremental Term Loan, 4.00%, 6/29/18

       839        828,883   
      

 

 

 
                       23,589,593   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    29


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Health Care Technology — 0.9%

      

IMS Health, Inc., New Term Loan, 3.50%, 3/17/21

     USD        2,000      $ 1,973,531   

MedAssets, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 12/13/19

       1,167        1,156,021   
      

 

 

 
                       3,129,552   

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 11.9%

      

Bally Technologies, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.25%, 11/25/20

       854        850,185   

Belmond Interfin Ltd., Term Loan B,
4.00%, 3/21/21

       1,323        1,306,808   

Boyd Gaming Corp., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 8/14/20

       688        677,738   

Bronco Midstream Funding LLC, Term Loan B, 5.00%, 8/17/20

       1,859        1,849,374   

Burger King NEWCO Unlimited Liability Company, 2014 Term Loan B, 4.50%, 10/27/21

       3,430        3,426,501   

Caesars Entertainment Operating Co., Inc.:

      

Extended Term Loan B6, 6.99%, 3/01/17

       894        800,380   

Term Loan B7, 9.75%, 1/28/18

       893        824,073   

Caesars Entertainment Resort Properties LLC, Term Loan B, 7.00%, 10/11/20

       2,335        2,223,587   

CCM Merger, Inc., New Term Loan B, 4.50%, 8/08/21

       1,014        1,007,541   

Dave & Buster’s, Inc., New Term Loan, 4.50%, 7/25/20

       410        408,820   

Diamond Resorts Corp., New Term Loan, 5.50%, 5/09/21

       1,421        1,417,884   

Dunkin Brands, Inc., Term Loan B4,
3.25%, 2/07/21

       882        865,531   

Four Seasons Holdings, Inc., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 6.25%, 12/28/20

       745        746,863   

Hilton Worldwide Finance LLC, Term Loan B2,
3.50%, 10/26/20

       3,349        3,313,755   

Intrawest ULC, Term Loan, 5.50%, 12/09/20

       779        778,380   

La Quinta Intermediate Holdings LLC, Term Loan B,
4.00%, 4/14/21

       5,318        5,274,998   

Las Vegas Sands LLC, Term Loan B,
3.25%, 12/19/20

       1,734        1,728,139   

MGM Resorts International, Term Loan B,
3.50%, 12/20/19

       2,160        2,132,736   

Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc., Term Loan B2,
3.75%, 8/13/20

       1,031        1,019,648   

Playa Resorts Holding BV, Term Loan B,
4.00%, 8/06/19

       1,074        1,058,038   

RHP Hotel Properties LP, Term Loan B,
3.75%, 1/15/21

       788        781,130   

Sabre, Inc.:

      

Incremental Term Loan, 4.00%, 2/19/19

       307        301,913   

Term Loan B, 4.00%, 2/19/19

       840        826,260   

Scientific Games International, Inc., 2014 Term Loan B1, 4.25%, 10/18/20

       937        915,726   

Station Casinos LLC, Term Loan B,
4.25%, 3/02/20

       3,376        3,335,980   

Travelport Finance (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., 2014 Term Loan B, 6.00%, 9/02/21

       2,045        2,042,444   

Twin River Management Group, Inc., New Term Loan B, 5.25%, 7/10/20

       688        684,834   

Wendy’s International, Inc., New Term Loan B,
3.25%, 5/15/19

       573        568,600   
      

 

 

 
                       41,167,866   

Household Products — 1.1%

  

Bass Pro Group LLC, New Term Loan,
3.75%, 11/20/19

       1,686        1,664,091   

Prestige Brands, Inc., New Term Loan,
4.13%, 1/31/19

       714        712,785   

Spectrum Brands, Inc.:

      

Term Loan A, 3.00%, 9/04/17

       481        477,865   

Term Loan C, 3.50%, 9/04/19

       899        889,242   
      

 

 

 
                       3,743,983   
Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 2.0%

  

Calpine Corp., Term Loan B1, 4.00%, 4/01/18

     USD        2,672      $ 2,659,481   

Energy Future Intermediate Holding Co LLC, DIP Term Loan, 4.25%, 6/19/16

       2,370        2,364,075   

Granite Acquisition Inc.:

      

Term Loan B, 5.00%, 10/15/21

       1,902        1,904,560   

Term Loan C, 5.00%, 10/15/21

       84        83,800   
      

 

 

 
                       7,011,916   

Industrial Conglomerates — 0.7%

  

Sequa Corp., New Term Loan B, 5.25%, 6/19/17

             2,558        2,431,648   

Insurance — 2.1%

  

Alliant Holdings I, Inc., New Term Loan B,
4.25%, 12/20/19

       1,103        1,096,078   

CNO Financial Group, Inc., Term Loan B2,
3.75%, 9/20/18

       1,374        1,357,477   

Cooper Gay Swett & Crawford Ltd.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.00%, 4/16/20

       1,101        990,956   

2nd Lien Term Loan C, 8.25%, 10/16/20

       530        445,200   

Onex York Acquisition Corp., Term Loan B,
4.75%, 10/01/21

       1,168        1,159,642   

Sedgwick, Inc.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 3.75%, 3/01/21

       1,169        1,134,928   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 6.75%, 2/28/22

       1,230        1,193,100   
      

 

 

 
                       7,377,381   

Internet Software & Services — 2.2%

  

Dealertrack Technologies, Inc., Term Loan B,
3.50%, 2/28/21

       1,163        1,141,295   

Go Daddy Operating Co. LLC, New Term Loan B,
4.75%, 5/13/21

       1,571        1,565,564   

Interactive Data Corp., 2014 Term Loan,
4.75%, 5/02/21

       3,436        3,434,369   

W3 Co.:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.75%, 3/13/20

       1,074        1,062,913   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.25%, 9/11/20

       419        406,382   
      

 

 

 
                       7,610,523   

IT Services — 4.5%

  

Ceridian LLC:

      

Term Loan B1, 4.12%, 5/09/17

       1,422        1,419,704   

Term Loan B2, 4.50%, 9/15/20

       1,047        1,037,762   

First Data Corp.:

      

New 2018 Extended Term Loan, 3.65%, 3/23/18

       7,645        7,568,338   

New 2018 Term Loan, 3.65%, 9/24/18

       730        722,700   

Genpact International, Inc., Term Loan B,
3.50%, 8/30/19

       1,148        1,141,088   

InfoGroup, Inc., New Term Loan, 7.50%, 5/25/18

       314        286,613   

SunGard Availability Services Capital, Inc., Term Loan B, 6.00%, 3/31/19

       970        863,411   

SunGard Data Systems, Inc.:

      

Term Loan C, 3.90%, 2/28/17

       925        920,375   

Term Loan E, 4.00%, 3/08/20

       170        169,201   

Vantiv, LLC, 2014 Term Loan B, 3.75%, 6/13/21

       1,232        1,221,515   
      

 

 

 
                       15,350,707   

Leisure Products — 0.4%

      

Bauer Performance Sports Ltd., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 4/15/21

       977        968,755   

FGI Operating Co. LLC, Term Loan,
5.50%, 4/19/19

       504        500,695   
      

 

 

 
                       1,469,450   

Machinery — 2.9%

      

Alliance Laundry Systems LLC:

      

2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.50%, 12/10/19

       286        287,080   

Refinancing Term Loan, 4.25%, 12/10/18

       886        875,476   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
30    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Machinery (concluded)

      

Faenza Acquisition GmbH:

      

Term Loan B1, 4.25%, 8/31/20

     USD        717      $ 714,064   

Term Loan B3, 4.25%, 8/28/20

       216        214,958   

Gardner Denver, Inc.:

      

4.25%, 7/30/20

       1,208        1,189,842   

4.75%, 7/30/20

     EUR        78        98,091   

Generac Power Systems, Inc., Term Loan B,
3.25%, 5/31/20

     USD        848        829,789   

Intelligrated, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan,
4.50%, 7/30/18

       1,176        1,156,918   

Mirror Bidco Corp., New Term Loan,
4.25%, 12/28/19

       1,046        1,033,362   

Navistar International Corp., Term Loan B,
5.75%, 8/17/17

       549        550,311   

Rexnord LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan B,
4.00%, 8/21/20

       1,497        1,475,130   

Silver II US Holdings LLC, Term Loan,
4.00%, 12/13/19

       870        854,029   

STS Operating, Inc., Term Loan, 4.75%, 2/21/21

       418        414,941   

Wabash National Corp., Term Loan B,
4.50%, 5/08/19

       461        458,476   
      

 

 

 
                       10,152,467   

Media — 13.4%

      

Activision Blizzard, Inc., Term Loan B, 3.25%, 10/12/20

       1,564        1,562,903   

Advanstar Communications, Inc., New 2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.50%, 6/06/20

       685        686,712   

CBS Outdoor Americas Capital LLC, Term Loan B, 3.00%, 1/31/21

       455        446,582   

Cengage Learning Acquisitions, Inc.:

      

0.00%, 7/03/15 (a)(f)

       1,296          

1st Lien Term Loan, 7.00%, 3/31/20

       3,672        3,673,386   

Charter Communications Operating LLC, Term Loan G, 4.25%, 9/12/21

       2,505        2,520,656   

Clear Channel Communications, Inc.:

      

Term Loan B, 3.80%, 1/29/16

       408        404,650   

Term Loan D, 6.90%, 1/30/19

       4,332        4,083,496   

Cumulus Media Holdings, Inc., 2013 Term Loan,
4.25%, 12/23/20

       1,095        1,082,039   

Getty Images, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.75%, 10/18/19

       122        115,268   

Gray Television, Inc., 2014 Term Loan B,
3.75%, 6/10/21

       758        747,494   

Hemisphere Media Holdings LLC, Term Loan B,
5.00%, 7/30/20

       1,210        1,199,760   

Hubbard Radio LLC, Term Loan B, 4.50%, 4/29/19

       807        801,429   

Intelsat Jackson Holdings SA, Term Loan B2,
3.75%, 6/30/19

       2,622        2,599,429   

Liberty Cablevision of Puerto Rico LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 1/07/22

       910        902,611   

Lions Gate Entertainment Corp., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 5.00%, 7/17/20

       390        390,975   

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., 2020 Term Loan B1, 3.50%, 8/17/20

       302        300,440   

MCC Iowa LLC:

      

Term Loan I, 2.63%, 6/30/17

       668        661,087   

Term Loan J, 3.75%, 6/30/21

       324        318,414   

Media General, Inc., Delayed Draw Term Loan B,
4.25%, 7/31/20

       1,016        1,007,565   

Mediacom Communications Corp., Term Loan F, 2.63%, 3/31/18

       507        493,815   

Mediacom Illinois LLC, Term Loan G, 3.75%, 6/30/21

       830        817,550   

NEP/NCP Holdco, Inc., Incremental Term Loan, 4.25%, 1/22/20

       1,056        1,029,804   

Numericable U.S. LLC:

      

Term Loan B1, 4.50%, 5/21/20

       1,357        1,359,052   

Term Loan B2, 4.50%, 5/21/20

       1,174        1,175,766   
Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Media (concluded)

      

Salem Communications Corp., Term Loan B, 4.50%, 3/13/20

     USD        1,008      $ 991,817   

SBA Senior Finance II LLC, Term Loan B1, 3.25%, 3/24/21

       1,825        1,792,020   

Sinclair Television Group, Inc., Term Loan B, 3.00%, 4/09/20

       1,143        1,112,831   

Tribune Co., 2013 Term Loan, 4.00%, 12/27/20

       2,305        2,284,398   

Univision Communications, Inc., Term Loan C4, 4.00%, 3/01/20

       3,357        3,320,273   

UPC Financing Partnership, Term Loan AG, 3.76%, 3/31/21

     EUR        910        1,138,325   

Virgin Media Investment Holdings Ltd.:

      

Term Loan B, 3.50%, 6/07/20

     USD        815        803,003   

Term Loan E, 4.25%, 6/30/23

     GBP        1,105        1,753,386   

WideOpenWest Finance LLC, Term Loan B, 4.75%, 4/01/19

     USD        1,092        1,089,964   

William Morris Endeavor Entertainment LLC:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.25%, 5/06/21

       1,066        1,048,054   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.25%, 5/01/22

       560        546,000   

Ziggo BV:

      

Term Loan B1A, 3.25%, 1/15/22

       1,108        1,078,191   

Term Loan B2A, 3.25%, 1/15/22

       668        651,345   

Term Loan B3, 2.75%, 1/15/22

       142        138,215   
      

 

 

 
                       46,128,705   

Metals & Mining — 1.6%

  

Ameriforge Group, Inc., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.75%, 12/19/20

       265        263,675   

API Heat Transfer, Inc., Term Loan, 5.25%, 5/03/19

       974        963,858   

FMG Resources (August 2006) Property Ltd., Term Loan B, 3.75%, 6/30/19

       1,222        1,190,753   

Novelis, Inc., New Term Loan, 3.75%, 3/10/17

       1,579        1,561,044   

Windsor Financing LLC, Term Loan B, 6.25%, 12/05/17

       1,589        1,596,825   
      

 

 

 
                       5,576,155   

Multiline Retail — 1.9%

  

99¢ Only Stores, New Term Loan, 4.50%, 1/11/19

       1,122        1,113,646   

BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc.:

      

New 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 9/26/19

       1,581        1,563,637   

New 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.50%, 3/26/20

       375        374,610   

Hudson’s Bay Co., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.75%, 11/04/20

       1,045        1,045,386   

The Neiman Marcus Group, Inc., 2020 Term Loan, 4.25%, 10/25/20

       2,637        2,600,949   
      

 

 

 
                       6,698,228   

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 3.8%

  

American Energy — Marcellus LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan, 5.25%, 8/04/20

       565        549,389   

Arch Coal, Inc., Term Loan B, 6.25%, 5/16/18

       1,132        997,752   

Drillships Financing Holding, Inc., Term Loan B1, 6.00%, 3/31/21

       870        829,762   

Drillships Ocean Ventures, Inc., Term Loan B, 5.50%, 7/25/21

       1,401        1,342,625   

EP Energy LLC/Everest Acquisition Finance, Inc., Term Loan B3, 3.50%, 5/24/18

       1,170        1,138,796   

Fieldwood Energy LLC:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 3.88%, 9/28/18

       822        802,914   

2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.38%, 9/30/20

       360        345,827   

Obsidian Natural Gas Trust, Term Loan, 7.00%, 11/02/15

       418        417,065   

Offshore Group Investment Ltd., Term Loan B, 5.75%, 3/28/19

       67        60,190   

Panda Patriot LLC, Term Loan B1, 6.75%, 12/19/20

       865        873,650   

Panda Temple II Power LLC, New Term Loan B, 7.25%, 4/03/19

       940        952,530   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    31


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

  

Power Buyer LLC, 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.25%, 11/06/20

     USD        285      $ 276,450   

Samchully Midstream 3 LLC, Term Loan B, 7.00%, 10/14/21

       1,100        1,089,000   

Seventy Seven Operating LLC, Term Loan B, 3.75%, 6/25/21

       162        158,265   

Southcross Energy Partners LP, 1st Lien Term Loan,
5.25%, 8/04/21

       718        719,995   

Southcross Holdings Borrower LP, Term Loan B,
6.00%, 8/04/21

       579        571,318   

TPF II Power LLC, Term Loan B, 5.50%, 10/02/21

       985        978,844   

WTG Holdings III Corp., 1st Lien Term Loan,
4.75%, 1/15/21

       1,042        1,031,704   
      

 

 

 
                       13,136,076   

Personal Products — 0.1%

  

Prestige Brands, Inc., Term Loan B2,
4.50%, 9/03/21

             275        275,085   

Pharmaceuticals — 5.4%

      

Akorn, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.50%, 4/16/21

       1,365        1,359,035   

Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC, New Term Loan,
4.75%, 11/01/19

       639        632,166   

CCC Information Services, Inc., Term Loan,
4.00%, 12/20/19

       511        501,959   

Endo Luxembourg Finance Co. I Sarl, 2014
Term Loan B, 3.25%, 2/28/21

       716        707,001   

Grifols Worldwide Operations USA, Inc., Term Loan B,
3.15%, 2/27/21

       3,199        3,155,931   

JLL/Delta Dutch Newco BV, Term Loan,
4.25%, 3/11/21

       973        947,033   

Mallinckrodt International Finance SA:

      

Incremental Term Loan B1, 3.50%, 3/19/21

       880        872,300   

Term Loan B, 3.50%, 3/19/21

       1,413        1,398,418   

Par Pharmaceutical Cos., Inc., Term Loan B2,
4.00%, 9/30/19

       2,275        2,239,105   

Pharmaceutical Product Development LLC,
New Term Loan B, 4.00%, 12/05/18

       2,587        2,566,837   

Quintiles Transnational Corp., Term Loan B3,
3.75%, 6/08/18

       1,277        1,264,277   

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.:

      

Series C2 Term Loan B, 3.50%, 12/11/19

       975        966,781   

Series D2 Term Loan B, 3.50%, 2/13/19

       943        934,875   

Series E Term Loan B, 3.50%, 8/05/20

       1,158        1,148,381   
      

 

 

 
                       18,694,099   

Professional Services — 2.2%

  

Advantage Sales & Marketing, Inc.:

      

2014 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 7/23/21

       1,215        1,202,978   

2014 2nd Lien Term Loan, 7.50%, 7/25/22

       965        957,521   

Delayed Draw Term Loan, 4.25%, 7/23/21

       20        20,049   

Emdeon Business Services LLC, Term Loan B2,
3.75%, 11/02/18

       1,257        1,244,744   

Intertrust Group Holding BV:

      

2nd Lien Term Loan, 7.15%, 4/16/22

       725        714,582   

Term Loan B4, 4.30%, 4/16/21

     EUR        1,000        1,249,591   

SIRVA Worldwide, Inc., Term Loan, 7.50%, 3/27/19

     USD        1,113        1,124,181   

Truven Health Analytics, Inc., Term Loan B,
4.50%, 6/06/19

       1,030        1,009,336   
      

 

 

 
                       7,522,982   

Real Estate Management & Development — 1.6%

  

CityCenter Holdings LLC, Term Loan B,
4.25%, 10/16/20

       1,396        1,385,951   

DTZ US Borrower LLC:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 5.50%, 10/06/21

       825        824,145   

Delayed Draw Term Loan, 5.50%, 10/21/21

       492        491,641   
Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Real Estate Management & Development (concluded)

  

Realogy Corp.:

      

Extended Letter of Credit, 0.27%, 10/10/16

     USD        110      $ 107,360   

Term Loan B, 3.75%, 3/05/20

       2,884        2,858,669   
      

 

 

 
                       5,667,766   

Road & Rail — 1.5%

  

RAC Finance Ltd.:

      

Term Loan B, 5.29%, 9/30/18

     GBP        1,182        1,886,010   

Term Loan D, 5.26%, 10/29/19

       500        796,851   

Road Infrastructure Investment LLC:

      

New 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 3/31/21

     USD        1,239        1,192,321   

New 2nd Lien Term Loan, 7.75%, 9/21/21

       600        544,500   

The Hertz Corp., Term Loan B2, 3.00%, 3/11/18

       888        865,003   
      

 

 

 
                       5,284,685   

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 1.7%

  

Avago Technologies Cayman Ltd., Term Loan B,
3.75%, 5/06/21

       3,312        3,299,712   

Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.:

      

Term Loan B4, 4.25%, 2/28/20

       1,392        1,371,652   

Term Loan B5, 5.00%, 1/15/21

       431        429,651   

NXP BV, Term Loan D, 3.25%, 1/11/20

       861        851,610   
      

 

 

 
                       5,952,625   

Software — 3.5%

  

BMC Software Finance, Inc., Term Loan,
5.00%, 9/10/20

       297        293,654   

GCA Services Group, Inc.:

      

2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.25%, 10/22/20

       400        399,000   

New Term Loan B, 4.25%, 11/01/19

       1,075        1,054,637   

Infor US, Inc.:

      

Term Loan B3, 3.75%, 6/03/20

       525        517,074   

Term Loan B5, 3.75%, 6/03/20

       2,644        2,606,544   

IQOR US, Inc., Term Loan B, 6.00%, 4/01/21

       542        501,556   

Kronos Worldwide, Inc., 2014 Term Loan,
4.75%, 2/18/20

       308        307,549   

Kronos, Inc., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 9.75%, 4/30/20

       1,088        1,115,147   

Mitchell International, Inc.:

      

New 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 10/12/20

       1,355        1,342,332   

New 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.50%, 10/11/21

       1,000        995,000   

Regit Eins GmbH, 1st Lien Term Loan, 6.00%, 1/08/21

       588        574,756   

Sophia LP, 2014 Term Loan B, 4.00%, 7/19/18

       1,948        1,926,921   

Websense, Inc., 2nd Lien Term Loan, 8.25%, 12/24/20

       300        296,751   
      

 

 

 
                       11,930,921   

Specialty Retail — 4.2%

  

Academy Ltd., Term Loan, 4.50%, 8/03/18

       1,257        1,250,438   

Equinox Holdings, Inc., Repriced Term Loan B,
4.25%, 1/31/20

       804        797,311   

General Nutrition Centers, Inc., New Term Loan,
3.25%, 3/04/19

       1,566        1,526,223   

The Gymboree Corp., Initial Term Loan,
5.00%, 2/23/18

       70        43,464   

Jo-Ann Stores, Inc., Term Loan, 4.00%, 3/16/18

       1,102        1,057,718   

Leslie’s Poolmart, Inc., New Term Loan,
4.25%, 10/16/19

       1,225        1,201,259   

Michaels Stores, Inc.:

      

Incremental 2014 Term Loan B2,
4.00%, 1/28/20

       1,781        1,757,640   

Term Loan B, 3.75%, 1/28/20

       899        881,932   

Party City Holdings, Inc., Term Loan, 4.00%, 7/27/19

       2,622        2,566,240   

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc., New Term Loan,
4.00%, 11/24/17

       1,828        1,811,040   

Things Remembered, Inc., New Term Loan B,
8.25%, 5/24/18

       997        947,601   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
32    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Floating Rate Loan Interests (c)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Specialty Retail (concluded)

  

Toys ‘R’ Us-Delaware, Inc.:

      

Incremental Term Loan B2, 5.25%, 5/25/18

     USD        114      $ 91,408   

Term Loan B3, 5.25%, 5/25/18

       24        19,185   

Term Loan B4, 9.75%, 3/15/20

       424        385,080   
      

 

 

 
                       14,336,539   

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 2.2%

  

ABG Intermediate Holdings 2 LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan, 5.50%, 5/27/21

       1,318        1,308,487   

Ascend Performance Materials LLC, Term Loan B,
6.75%, 4/10/18

       1,402        1,356,180   

J. Crew Group, Inc., New Term Loan B, 4.00%, 3/05/21

       1,473        1,420,603   

Kate Spade & Co., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 4/09/21

       1,337        1,298,221   

Nine West Holdings, Inc.:

      

Guarantee Term Loan, 6.25%, 1/08/20

       495        457,875   

Term Loan B, 4.75%, 10/08/19

       579        564,809   

Polymer Group, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan,
5.25%, 12/19/19

       1,020        1,019,812   
      

 

 

 
                       7,425,987   

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 0.3%

  

IG Investment Holdings LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan,
5.25%, 10/31/19

             1,184        1,180,953   

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.8%

      

Crown Castle Operating Co., Term Loan B2, 3.00%, 1/31/21

       1,211        1,200,255   

LTS Buyer LLC, 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.00%, 4/13/20

       1,610        1,589,505   
      

 

 

 
                       2,789,760   
Total Floating Rate Loan Interests — 133.9%                      461,477,155   
      
                          
Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities — 0.2%                

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations — 0.2%

  

Hilton USA Trust, Series 2013-HLT, Class EFX, 5.22%, 11/05/30 (b)(c)

             813        828,289   
      
                          
Other Interests (g)           Beneficial
Interest
(000)
        

Auto Components — 0.0%

      

Lear Corp. Escrow

             500        4,375   

Construction Materials — 0.0%

      

USI Senior Holdings

             8          

Diversified Financial Services — 0.0%

      

J.G. Wentworth LLC Preferred Equity Interests, (Acquired 11/18/13, cost $837,899) (h)

             12        136,576   
Total Other Interests — 0.0%                      140,951   
Warrants (i)        

Shares

    Value  

Chemicals — 0.0%

      

British Vita Holdings Co. (Non-Expiring)

         166          

Media — 0.0%

      

New Vision Holdings LLC (Expires 12/31/14)

         22,447      $ 1,214   

Software — 0.0%

      

Bankruptcy Management Solutions, Inc.:

      

(Expires 6/28/18)

       181          

(Expires 6/28/19)

       195          

(Expires 6/28/20)

       292          

HMH Holdings/EduMedia (Issued/Exercisable 3/09/10, 19 Shares for 1 Warrant,
Expires 6/22/19, Strike Price $42.27)

       1,501        8,274   
      

 

 

 
                   8,274   
Total Warrants — 0.0%                  9,488   
      
                      
Investment Companies                    

Capital Markets — 0.0%

      

Eaton Vance Floating-Rate Income Trust

       34        485   

Eaton Vance Senior Income Trust

         8,925        57,388   
Total Investment Companies — 0.0%                  57,873   
Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $501,369,644) — 143.2%
                 493,715,998   
      
                      
Short-Term Securities                    

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, Institutional Class, 0.07% (j)(k)

         2,630,534        2,630,534   
Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $2,630,534) — 0.8%
            2,630,534   
Options Purchased
(Cost — $25,422) — 0.0%
                
Total Investments (Cost — $504,025,600) — 144.0%        496,346,532   

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (44.0)%

      (151,678,929
      

 

 

 
Net Assets — 100.0%        $ 344,667,603   
      

 

 

 
Notes to Schedule of Investments

 

(a)   Non-income producing security.

 

(b)   Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors.

 

(c)   Variable rate security. Rate shown is as of report date.

 

(d)   Zero-coupon bond.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    33


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

 

 

(e)   Convertible security.

 

(f)   Issuer filed for bankruptcy and/or is in default of principal and/or interest payments.

 

(g)   Other interests represent beneficial interests in liquidation trusts and other reorganization or private entities.

 

(h)   Security is held by a wholly owned subsidiary. See Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements for details on the wholly owned subsidiary.

 

(i)   Warrants entitle the Trust to purchase a predetermined number of shares of common stock and are non-income producing. The purchase price and number of shares are subject to adjustment under certain conditions until the expiration date, if any.

 

(j)   Investments in issuers considered to be an affiliate of the Trust during the year ended October 31, 2014, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the 1940 Act, were as follows:

 

Affiliate      Shares Held at
October 31,
2013
       Net
Activity
       Shares Held at
October 31,
2014
       Income  

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, Institutional Class

       3,378,158           (747,624        2,630,534         $ 417   

 

(k)   Represents the current yield as of report date.

 

Ÿ  

For Trust compliance purposes, the Trust’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or rating group indexes, and/or as defined by the investment advisor. These definitions may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine such industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

Ÿ  

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Currency
Purchased
       Currency
Sold
    Counterparty   Settlement
Date
       Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 
GBP        900,000         USD        1,445,598      Deutsche Bank AG     1/21/15         $ (6,771
USD        2,614,839         CAD        2,937,000      Barclays Bank PLC     1/21/15           14,064   
USD        12,199,678         EUR        9,562,000      JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A.     1/21/15           210,797   
USD        10,161,494         GBP        6,373,000      Barclays Bank PLC     1/21/15           (26,999
Total                         $ 191,091   
                       

 

 

 

 

Ÿ  

OTC options purchased as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Description    Counterparty      Put/
Call
       Strike
Price
       Expiration
Date
       Contracts        Market
Value
 

Marsico Parent Superholdco LLC

   Goldman Sachs & Co.        Call           USD    942.86           12/14/19           26             

 

Ÿ  

Fair Value Measurements — Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments and derivative financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a disclosure hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The categorization of a value determined for investments and derivative financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the investment and derivative financial instrument and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

 

  Ÿ  

Level 1 — unadjusted quoted prices in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that the Trust has the ability to access

 

  Ÿ  

Level 2 — other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs)

 

  Ÿ  

Level 3 — unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Trust’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments)

Changes in valuation techniques may result in transfers into or out of an assigned level within the disclosure hierarchy. In accordance with the Trust’s policy, transfers between different levels of the fair value disclosure hierarchy are deemed to have occurred as of the beginning of the reporting period. For information about the Trust’s policy regarding valuation of investments and derivative financial instruments, please refer to Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following tables summarize the Trust’s investments and derivative financial instruments categorized in the disclosure hierarchy as of October 31, 2014:

 

     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3        Total  

Assets:

                
Investments:                 

Long-Term Investments:

                

Asset-Backed Securities

            $ 9,485,713         $ 715,650         $ 10,201,363   

Common Stocks

  $ 2,047,509           685,727           153,282           2,886,518   

Corporate Bonds

              17,553,535           560,826           18,114,361   

Floating Rate Loan Interests

              424,396,522           37,080,633           461,477,155   

Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

              828,289                     828,289   

Other Interests

    136,576                     4,375           140,951   

Warrants

              8,274           1,214           9,488   

Investment Companies

    57,873                               57,873   

Short-Term Securities

    2,630,534                               2,630,534   

Liabilities:

                

Unfunded Floating Rate Loan Interests1

              (25,380                  (25,380
 

 

 

 

Total

  $ 4,872,492         $ 452,932,680         $ 38,515,980         $ 496,321,152   
 

 

 

 

 

1   Unfunded floating rate loan interests are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the commitment.

      

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
34    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Consolidated Schedule of Investments (concluded)

  

BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

 

     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3      Total  
Derivative Financial Instruments1                 

Assets:

                

Foreign currency exchange contracts

            $ 224,861              $ 224,861   

Liabilities:

                

Foreign currency exchange contracts

              (33,770             (33,770
 

 

 

 

Total

            $ 191,091              $ 191,091   
 

 

 

 

 

1   Derivative financial instruments are forward foreign currency exchange contracts which are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument.

      

The Trust may hold assets and/or liabilities in which the fair value approximates the carrying amount for financial statement purposes. As of October 31, 2014, such assets and/or liabilities are categorized within the disclosure hierarchy as follows:    
     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3      Total  

Assets:

                

Cash

  $ 753,332                        $ 753,332   

Foreign currency at value

    6,914                          6,914   

Liabilities:

                

Bank borrowings payable

            $ (145,000,000             (145,000,000
 

 

 

 

Total

  $ 760,246         $ (145,000,000           $ (144,239,754
 

 

 

 

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the year ended October 31, 2014.

A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented when the Trust had a significant amount of Level 3 investments at the beginning and/or end of the year in relation to net assets. The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for which significant unobservable inputs were used in determining fair value:

 

     Asset-Backed
Securities
    Common
Stocks
    Corporate
Bonds
   

Floating

Rate Loan
Interests

    Other
Interests
    Warrants     Unfunded
Floating Rate
Loan Interests
Assets
    Unfunded
Floating  Rate
Loan
Interests
(Liabilities)
    Total  

Assets:

                 

Opening Balance, as of October 31, 2013

  $ 14,250,070      $ 2,637,960             $ 28,839,567      $ 1,426,987      $ 1,549      $ 14,706      $ (903   $ 47,169,936   

Transfers into Level 31

                         13,371,068                                    13,371,068   

Transfers out of Level 32

    (8,528,110                   (5,298,290     (524,486                          (14,350,886

Accrued discounts/premiums

    17,317             $ (155     104,179                                    121,341   

Net realized gain (loss)

    302,683        1,319,724               73,638        1,361,239                             3,057,284   

Net change in unrealized appreciation/ depreciation3,4

    (289,654     (925,933     2,768        (688,966     (890,625     (335     (14,706     903        (2,806,548

Purchases

    715,650               558,213        16,480,570                                    17,754,433   

Sales

    (5,752,306     (2,878,469            (15,801,133     (1,368,740                          (25,800,648
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Closing Balance, as of October 31, 2014

  $ 715,650      $ 153,282      $ 560,826      $ 37,080,633      $ 4,375      $ 1,214                    $ 38,515,980   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments still held at October 31, 2014

  $ (12   $ 145,215      $ 2,768      $ (647,207   $ 1,875      $ (334                 $ (497,695
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

1   As of October 31, 2013, the Trust used observable inputs in determining the value of certain investments. As of October 31, 2014, the Trust used significant unobservable inputs in determining the value of the same investments. As a result, investments with a beginning of period value of $13,371,068 transferred from Level 2 to Level 3 in the disclosure hierarchy.

        

 

2   As of October 31, 2013, the Trust used significant unobservable inputs in determining the value of certain investments. As of October 31, 2014, the Trust used observable inputs in determining the value of the same investments. As a result, investments with a beginning of period value of $14,350,886 transferred from Level 3 to Level 2 in the disclosure hierarchy.

        

 

3   Included in the related net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation in the Statements of Operations.

      

 

4   Any difference between Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation and Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments still held at October 31, 2014 is generally due to investments no longer held or categorized as Level 3 at year end.

       

The Trust’s investments that are categorized as Level 3 were valued utilizing third party pricing information without adjustment. Such valuations are based on unobservable inputs. A significant change in third party information inputs could result in a significantly lower or higher value of such Level 3 investments.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    35


Schedule of Investments October 31, 2014

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Asset-Backed Securities   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

ACE Securities Corp. Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2006-HE1, Class A2D,
0.45%, 2/25/36 (a)

     USD        6,775      $ 5,910,307   

Adirondack Park CLO Ltd., Series 2013-1A (a)(b):

      

Class D, 3.88%, 4/15/24

       3,250        3,064,442   

Class E, 4.88%, 4/15/24

       2,000        1,783,573   

ALM Loan Funding, Series 2013-7RA (a)(b):

      

Class C, 3.68%, 4/24/24

       4,000        3,735,474   

Class D, 5.23%, 4/24/24

       1,000        908,323   

ALM V Ltd., Series 2012-5A, Class C, 4.73%, 2/13/23 (a)(b)

       4,000        4,003,926   

ALM XIV Ltd., Series 2014-14A, Class C, 3.68%, 7/28/26 (a)(b)(c)

       3,610        3,318,760   

American Homes 4 Rent, Series 2014-SFR2, Class E, 6.23%, 10/17/36 (b)

       2,000        2,004,388   

AMMC CLO XII Ltd., Series 2013-12A,
Class D1, 3.98%, 5/10/25 (a)(b)

       1,000        948,370   

Apidos CLO XII, Series 2013-12A,
Class D, 3.28%, 4/15/25 (a)(b)

       1,000        910,131   

Atrium X, Series 10A (a)(b):

      

Class D, 3.73%, 7/16/25

       1,000        944,264   

Class E, 4.73%, 7/16/25

       2,000        1,784,527   

Benefit Street Partners CLO Ltd., Series 2012-IA, Class C, 4.73%, 10/15/23 (a)(b)

       2,750        2,737,801   

Benefit Street Partners CLO II Ltd., Series 2013-IIA, Class C, 3.73%, 7/15/24 (a)(b)

       1,750        1,598,037   

Benefit Street Partners CLO V Ltd., Series 2014-VA, Class D, 3.55%, 10/20/26 (a)(b)

       2,750        2,591,875   

Brookside Mill CLO Ltd., Series 2013-1A, Class D, 3.28%, 4/17/25 (a)(b)

       1,250        1,121,611   

C-BASS Trust, Series 2006-CB7, Class A4, 0.31%, 10/25/36 (a)

       10,132        6,953,564   

Carlyle Global Market Strategies CLO Ltd., Class D (a)(b):

      

Series 2012-4A, 4.73%, 1/20/25

       2,350        2,349,943   

Series 2013-2A, 3.98%, 4/18/25

       1,250        1,185,253   

Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2006-FRE2 (a):

      

Class A2, 0.27%, 10/25/36

       7,221        4,160,042   

Class A5, 0.23%, 10/25/36

       7,657        4,388,297   

Central Park CLO Ltd., Series 2011-1A, Class D, 3.43%, 7/23/22 (a)(b)

       2,250        2,219,540   

CIFC Funding Ltd. (a)(b):

      

Series 2012-1AR, Class B1R, 4.39%, 8/14/24

       2,000        1,965,135   

Series 2013-2A, Class B1L, 3.83%, 4/21/25

       1,000        927,801   

Series 2014-3A, Class D, 3.55%, 7/22/26

       480        435,861   

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust, Inc., Series 2005-HE3, Class M2, 0.63%, 9/25/35 (a)

       4,800        4,487,822   

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-BC5, Class 2A3, 0.32%, 3/25/37 (a)

       5,410        4,725,999   

Credit Suisse ABS Repackaging Trust, Series 2013-A, Class B, 2.50%, 1/25/30 (b)

       2,019        1,944,265   

ECP CLO Ltd., Series 2013-5A, Class C, 3.73%, 1/20/25 (a)(b)

       2,500        2,282,170   

Fieldstone Mortgage Investment Trust, Series 2006-3, Class 2A3, 0.31%, 11/25/36 (a)

       13,300        7,640,094   

Flatiron CLO Ltd., Series 2012-1A, Class C, 4.73%, 10/25/24 (a)(b)

       1,375        1,358,797   

Fremont Home Loan Trust, Class 2A3 (a):

      

Series 2006-A, 0.31%, 5/25/36

       27,639        15,975,803   

Series 2006-D, 0.30%, 11/25/36

       25,508        12,273,241   
Asset-Backed Securities   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

GoldenTree Loan Opportunities VII Ltd., Series 2013-7A, Class D, 3.53%, 4/25/25 (a)(b)

     USD        1,250      $ 1,169,246   

GSAMP Trust (a):

      

Series 2005-AHL2, Class A2C, 0.39%, 12/25/35

       6,412        5,813,376   

Series 2006-FM2, Class A2C, 0.30%, 9/25/36

       13,027        5,993,101   

Series 2007-FM2, Class A2B, 0.24%, 1/25/37

       9,481        5,669,026   

Halcyon Loan Advisors Funding Ltd., Series 2013-1A, Class C,
3.73%, 4/15/25 (a)(b)

       2,000        1,838,553   

Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust, Series 2006-E, Class 2A3, 0.32%, 4/25/37 (a)

       15,902        10,297,951   

ING IM CLO Ltd., Series 2013-2A, Class C, 3.73%, 4/25/25 (a)(b)

       1,000        933,908   

Jamestown CLO I Ltd., Series 2012-1A, Class C, 4.24%, 11/05/24 (a)(b)

       2,550        2,470,092   

Jamestown CLO IV Ltd., Series 2014-4A, Class C, 3.73%, 7/15/26 (a)(b)

       1,335        1,232,149   

Lehman XS Trust, Series 2007-1, Class 2A1, 5.60%, 2/25/37 (a)

       10,096        9,266,067   

Madison Park Funding Ltd. (a):

      

Series 2012-10A, Class D, 4.48%, 1/20/25 (b)

       1,000        991,986   

Series 2012-8X, Class E, 5.58%, 4/22/22

       3,000        2,886,852   

Mastr Asset-Backed Securities Trust (a):

      

Series 2006-HE2, Class A3, 0.30%, 6/25/36

       13,315        7,253,385   

Series 2006-WMC2, Class A5, 0.40%, 4/25/36

       9,692        4,529,196   

Morgan Stanley IXIS Real Estate Capital Trust, Series 2006-2, Class A3,
0.30%, 11/25/36 (a)

       16,426        9,383,457   

Octagon Investment Partners XIV Ltd., Series 2012-1A, Class C,
4.23%, 1/15/24 (a)(b)

       1,000        968,547   

Octagon Investment Partners XVI Ltd., Series 2013-1A, Class D,
3.58%, 7/17/25 (a)(b)

       2,250        2,069,725   

Octagon Investment Partners XXI Ltd., Series 2014-1A, Class C, 3.88%, 11/14/26 (a)(b)

       1,000        951,300   

OHA Credit Partners VII Ltd., Series 2012-7A, Class D, 4.23%, 11/20/23 (a)(b)

       3,000        2,927,937   

OZLM Funding IV Ltd., Series 2013-4A, Class C, 3.43%, 7/22/25 (a)(b)

       1,250        1,129,156   

OZLM Funding Ltd., Series 2012-2A, Class C, 4.59%, 10/30/23 (a)(b)

       2,000        1,952,362   

Race Point CLO Ltd., Series 2011-5AR, Class ER, 6.23%, 12/15/22 (a)(b)

       1,500        1,499,912   

Renaissance Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2007-3, Class AF2,
7.00%, 9/25/37 (d)

       4,850        3,151,257   

Saxon Asset Securities Trust, Series 2007-3, Class 2A3, 0.55%, 9/25/47 (a)

       5,000        3,352,100   

Scholar Funding Trust, Series 2013-A, Class R, 0.00% (b)(e)

       (f)      4,148,172   

Symphony CLO XV Ltd., Series 2014-15A, Class D, 3.98%, 10/17/26 (a)(b)(g)

       3,500        3,294,550   

Tyron Park CLO Ltd., Series 2013-1A (a)(b):

      

Class C, 3.73%, 7/15/25

       1,250        1,166,455   

Class D, 4.63%, 7/15/25

       1,000        876,496   

WaMu Asset-Backed Certificates Trust, Series 2007-HE3, Class 2A3,
0.39%, 5/25/47 (a)

             11,451        7,510,642   
Total Asset-Backed Securities — 28.5%        217,366,392   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
36    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Airlines — 5.2%

      

Air Canada Pass-Through Trust, Series 2013-1 (b)(c):

      

Class B, 5.38%, 11/15/22

     USD        3,269      $ 3,310,264   

Class C, 6.63%, 5/15/18

       761        782,384   

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust (c):

      

Series 2013-1, Class C, 6.13%, 7/15/18 (b)

       1,500        1,539,375   

Series 2013-2, Class A, 4.95%, 7/15/24

       2,360        2,519,215   

Series 2013-2, Class B, 5.60%, 1/15/22 (b)

       2,777        2,832,876   

Series 2013-2, Class C, 6.00%, 1/15/17 (b)

       2,800        2,884,000   

Continental Airlines Pass-Through Trust (c):

      

Series 2003-ERJ1, 7.88%, 1/02/20

       6,828        7,292,585   

Series 2007-1, Class B, 6.90%, 10/19/23

       3,451        3,658,026   

Series 2012-1, Class B, 6.25%, 10/11/21

       488        516,838   

Series 2012-3, Class C, 6.13%, 4/29/18

       678        715,290   

Delta Air Lines Pass-Through Trust, Class B (c):

      

Series 2007-1, 8.02%, 2/10/24

       2,346        2,720,925   

Series 2012-1, 6.88%, 5/07/19 (b)

       4,485        4,978,503   

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust, Series 2014-2, Class B, 4.63%, 3/03/24 (c)

       2,750        2,667,500   

US Airways Pass-Through Trust, Series 2013-1, Class B, 5.38%, 5/15/23 (c)

       3,100        3,154,250   
      

 

 

 
                       39,572,031   

Auto Components — 1.2%

      

Dana Holding Corp., 6.75%, 2/15/21 (c)

       1,257        1,335,562   

Icahn Enterprises LP/Icahn Enterprises Finance Corp. (c):

      

3.50%, 3/15/17

       170        169,150   

4.88%, 3/15/19

       2,898        2,948,715   

6.00%, 8/01/20

       2,174        2,282,700   

5.88%, 2/01/22

       1,334        1,370,685   

Schaeffler Finance BV, 4.75%, 5/15/21 (b)(c)

       1,045        1,042,388   
      

 

 

 
                       9,149,200   

Automobiles — 1.0%

      

Chrysler Group LLC/CG Co-Issuer, Inc. (c):

      

8.00%, 6/15/19

       1,212        1,298,355   

8.25%, 6/15/21

       1,003        1,120,852   

General Motors Co. (c):

      

3.50%, 10/02/18

       2,669        2,749,070   

6.25%, 10/02/43

       2,194        2,610,860   
      

 

 

 
                       7,779,137   

Banks — 2.5%

      

CIT Group, Inc., 5.25%, 3/15/18 (c)

       9,558        10,083,690   

Fifth Third Bancorp, 5.10% (a)(c)(h)

       5,000        4,725,000   

Sberbank of Russia, 5.25%, 5/23/23 (b)

       5,000        4,395,000   
      

 

 

 
                       19,203,690   

Building Products — 0.8%

      

American Builders & Contractors Supply Co., Inc., 5.63%, 4/15/21 (b)(c)

       375        379,688   

Builders FirstSource, Inc., 7.63%, 6/01/21 (b)(c)

       1,100        1,144,000   

Building Materials Corp. of America, 6.75%, 5/01/21 (b)(c)

       3,125        3,351,562   

Cemex SAB de CV, 5.88%, 3/25/19 (b)(c)

       200        207,250   

USG Corp., 9.75%, 1/15/18 (c)

       572        659,230   
      

 

 

 
                       5,741,730   

Capital Markets — 0.8%

      

AE-Rotor Holding BV, 4.97%, 3/28/18 (c)

       2,500        2,568,700   

American Capital Ltd., 6.50%, 9/15/18 (b)(c)

       700        724,500   

Credit Suisse Group AG, 7.50% (a)(b)(c)(h)

       2,851        3,030,043   
      

 

 

 
                       6,323,243   

Chemicals — 0.5%

      

PetroLogistics LP/PetroLogistics Finance Corp., 6.25%, 4/01/20

       246        268,755   
Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Chemicals (concluded)

      

Rockwood Specialties Group, Inc., 4.63%, 10/15/20 (c)

     USD        3,392      $ 3,541,248   
      

 

 

 
                       3,810,003   

Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.8%

      

ARAMARK Services, Inc., 5.75%, 3/15/20 (c)

       672        702,240   

Aviation Capital Group Corp.,
6.75%, 4/06/21 (b)(c)

       5,000        5,700,000   

Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc., 8.50%, 12/01/21 (b)(c)

       406        404,477   

United Rentals North America, Inc. (c):

      

8.25%, 2/01/21

       4,204        4,582,360   

7.63%, 4/15/22

       2,440        2,720,600   
      

 

 

 
                       14,109,677   

Communications Equipment — 1.0%

      

Alcatel-Lucent USA, Inc., 8.88%, 1/01/20 (b)(c)

       942        1,033,845   

Avaya, Inc., 7.00%, 4/01/19 (b)(c)

       691        678,908   

Zayo Group LLC/Zayo Capital, Inc., 10.13%, 7/01/20 (c)

       5,000        5,550,000   
      

 

 

 
                       7,262,753   

Construction & Engineering — 0.3%

      

Alam Synergy Property Ltd., 6.95%, 3/27/20 (c)

       2,000        1,980,000   

BlueLine Rental Finance Corp., 7.00%, 2/01/19 (b)(c)

       183        192,608   

Safway Group Holding LLC/Safway Finance Corp., 7.00%, 5/15/18 (b)(c)

       290        299,425   
      

 

 

 
                       2,472,033   

Construction Materials — 1.6%

      

HD Supply, Inc. (c):

      

8.13%, 4/15/19

       2,292        2,475,360   

11.00%, 4/15/20

       2,900        3,327,750   

7.50%, 7/15/20

       6,388        6,803,220   
      

 

 

 
                       12,606,330   

Distributors — 0.1%

      

VWR Funding, Inc., 7.25%, 9/15/17 (c)

             652        684,600   

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.3%

      

APX Group, Inc. (c):

      

6.38%, 12/01/19

       289        283,943   

8.75%, 12/01/20

       1,428        1,235,220   

Laureate Education, Inc., 9.75%, 9/01/19 (b)(c)

       624        642,720   
      

 

 

 
                       2,161,883   

Diversified Financial Services — 3.7%

  

   

Aircastle Ltd., 6.25%, 12/01/19 (c)

       2,624        2,794,560   

Ally Financial, Inc., 8.00%, 11/01/31 (c)

       9,315        11,853,337   

DPL, Inc., 6.50%, 10/15/16 (c)

       112        119,840   

General Motors Financial Co., Inc. (c):

      

3.25%, 5/15/18

       235        240,288   

4.25%, 5/15/23

       326        335,780   

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA, 5.02%, 6/26/24 (b)(c)

       2,290        2,238,049   

Jefferies Finance LLC/JFIN Co-Issuer Corp., 7.38%, 4/01/20 (b)(c)

       845        840,775   

Reynolds Group Issuer, Inc. (c):

      

9.88%, 8/15/19

       3,278        3,560,728   

5.75%, 10/15/20

       4,941        5,138,640   

8.25%, 2/15/21

       1,124        1,208,300   
      

 

 

 
                       28,330,297   

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 3.8%

  

   

CenturyLink, Inc., Series V, 5.63%, 4/01/20 (c)

       834        884,040   

Cequel Communications Escrow 1 LLC/Cequel Capital Corp., 6.38%, 9/15/20 (b)(c)

       662        690,135   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    37


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Diversified Telecommunication Services (concluded)

  

   

Consolidated Communications, Inc., 10.88%, 6/01/20 (c)

     USD        1,264      $ 1,440,960   

Level 3 Communications, Inc.,
8.88%, 6/01/19 (c)

       1,234        1,323,465   

Level 3 Financing, Inc., 8.13%, 7/01/19 (c)

       7,722        8,262,540   

Verizon Communications, Inc.,
6.55%, 9/15/43 (b)(c)

       12,500        15,757,575   

Windstream Corp. (c):

      

7.75%, 10/15/20

       450        479,250   

6.38%, 8/01/23

       555        559,162   
      

 

 

 
                       29,397,127   

Electric Utilities — 0.7%

  

   

Star Energy Geothermal Wayang Windu Ltd.,
6.13%, 3/27/20 (c)

             5,000        5,112,500   

Energy Equipment & Services — 0.9%

  

   

MEG Energy Corp., 6.50%, 3/15/21 (b)(c)

       3,586        3,550,140   

Peabody Energy Corp. (c):

      

6.00%, 11/15/18

       176        170,280   

6.25%, 11/15/21

       3,625        3,432,422   
      

 

 

 
                       7,152,842   

Food & Staples Retailing — 0.1%

  

   

Rite Aid Corp., 6.75%, 6/15/21 (c)

             506        540,155   

Food Products — 0.2%

  

   

Barry Callebaut Services NV,
5.50%, 6/15/23 (b)

       1,200        1,260,120   

Smithfield Foods, Inc., 5.88%, 8/01/21 (b)(c)

       307        325,420   
    

 

 

   

 

 

 
                       1,585,540   

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 1.2%

  

   

Biomet, Inc. (c):

      

6.50%, 8/01/20

       5,795        6,200,650   

6.50%, 10/01/20

       2,904        3,070,980   
      

 

 

 
                       9,271,630   

Health Care Providers & Services — 4.5%

  

   

CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc., 6.88%, 2/01/22

       3,548        3,822,970   

DaVita HealthCare Partners, Inc.,
5.13%, 7/15/24 (c)

       2,500        2,550,000   

HCA, Inc. (c):

      

6.50%, 2/15/20

       10,643        11,880,249   

5.88%, 3/15/22

       124        136,090   

4.75%, 5/01/23

       161        163,616   

Hologic, Inc., 6.25%, 8/01/20 (c)

       3,216        3,380,820   

Tenet Healthcare Corp. (c):

      

6.25%, 11/01/18

       6,087        6,612,004   

6.00%, 10/01/20

       1,150        1,236,250   

8.13%, 4/01/22

       4,137        4,742,036   
      

 

 

 
                       34,524,035   

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 3.2%

  

   

Caesars Entertainment Operating Co., Inc., 9.00%, 2/15/20

       2,078        1,561,395   

Caesars Entertainment Resort Properties LLC/Caesars Entertainment Resort Property, 8.00%, 10/01/20 (b)(c)

       2,773        2,689,810   

Enterprise Inns PLC, 6.00%, 10/06/23

     GBP        3,320        5,297,728   

The Unique Pub Finance Co. PLC:

      

Series A3, 6.54%, 3/30/21

       2,678        4,498,870   

Series M, 7.40%, 3/28/24

       6,400        10,596,416   
      

 

 

 
                       24,644,219   

Household Durables — 0.9%

  

   

Brookfield Residential Properties, Inc., 6.50%, 12/15/20 (b)(c)

     USD        2,750        2,928,750   
Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Household Durables (concluded)

  

   

Brookfield Residential Properties, Inc./Brookfield Residential US Corp., 6.13%, 7/01/22 (b)(c)

     USD        750      $ 796,875   

Standard Pacific Corp., 8.38%, 1/15/21 (c)

       2,000        2,335,000   

Taylor Morrison Communities, Inc./Monarch Communities, Inc., 5.25%, 4/15/21 (b)(c)

       357        359,545   

Tri Pointe Holdings, Inc. (b)(c):

      

4.38%, 6/15/19

       415        412,925   

5.88%, 6/15/24

       280        285,600   
      

 

 

 
                       7,118,695   

Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 1.2%

  

 

Calpine Corp. (c):

      

6.00%, 1/15/22 (b)

       254        273,685   

5.38%, 1/15/23

       4,000        4,040,000   

5.88%, 1/15/24 (b)

       240        258,000   

NRG Energy, Inc., 7.63%, 1/15/18 (c)

       2,735        3,070,037   

NRG REMA LLC, 9.68%, 7/02/26 (c)

       1,750        1,890,000   
      

 

 

 
                       9,531,722   

Insurance — 1.1%

      

A-S Co-Issuer Subsidiary, Inc./A-S Merger Sub LLC, 7.88%, 12/15/20 (b)(c)

       680        700,400   

Genworth Holdings, Inc., 6.50%, 6/15/34 (c)

       5,500        6,327,475   

MPL 2 Acquisition Canco, Inc.,
9.88%, 8/15/18 (b)(c)

       1,400        1,501,500   
      

 

 

 
                       8,529,375   

Internet Software & Services — 0.1%

      

Equinix, Inc., 4.88%, 4/01/20 (c)

       144        147,240   

VeriSign, Inc., 4.63%, 5/01/23 (c)

       575        572,844   
      

 

 

 
                       720,084   

IT Services — 2.3%

      

Ceridian HCM Holding, Inc.,
11.00%, 3/15/21 (b)(c)

       742        836,605   

Ceridian LLC, 8.88%, 7/15/19 (b)(c)

       2,007        2,217,735   

Epicor Software Corp., 8.63%, 5/01/19 (c)

       425        452,094   

First Data Corp. (b)(c):

      

7.38%, 6/15/19

       5,071        5,375,260   

6.75%, 11/01/20

       3,111        3,328,770   

SunGard Data Systems, Inc., 6.63%, 11/01/19 (c)

       5,003        5,178,105   
      

 

 

 
                       17,388,569   

Media — 7.4%

      

Bharti Airtel International Netherlands BV, 5.13%, 3/11/23 (c)

       3,000        3,168,840   

Cablevision Systems Corp., 5.88%, 9/15/22 (c)

       700        712,250   

CBS Outdoor Americas Capital LLC/CBS Outdoor Americas Capital Corp. (b)(c):

      

5.25%, 2/15/22

       3,117        3,218,302   

5.63%, 2/15/24

       94        97,995   

CCO Holdings LLC/CCO Holdings Capital Corp., 5.13%, 2/15/23 (c)

       7,029        7,011,427   

Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (c):

      

7.63%, 3/15/20

       5,274        5,610,217   

6.50%, 11/15/22

       2,573        2,663,055   

Columbus International, Inc.,
7.38%, 3/30/21 (b)(c)

       1,560        1,653,600   

DISH DBS Corp., 5.13%, 5/01/20 (c)

       5,500        5,720,000   

Gannett Co., Inc., 6.38%, 10/15/23 (c)

       1,400        1,505,000   

Gray Television, Inc., 7.50%, 10/01/20 (c)

       891        932,209   

iHeartCommunications, Inc., 9.00%, 12/15/19 (c)

       700        707,438   

Inmarsat Finance PLC, 4.88%, 5/15/22 (b)(c)

       1,000        1,000,000   

Intelsat Jackson Holdings SA (c):

      

7.25%, 10/15/20

       1,250        1,334,375   

5.50%, 8/01/23

       2,241        2,246,602   

Intelsat Luxembourg SA, 6.75%, 6/01/18 (c)

       3,000        3,105,000   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
38    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Media (concluded)

      

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.,
7.00%, 9/01/20 (b)(c)

     USD        199      $ 211,438   

Midcontinent Communications & Midcontinent Finance Corp., 6.25%, 8/01/21 (b)(c)

       250        255,625   

NAI Entertainment Holdings/NAI Entertainment Holdings Finance Corp., 5.00%, 8/01/18 (b)(c)

       629        644,725   

Numericable Group SA, 6.00%, 5/15/22 (b)(c)

       3,000        3,067,500   

Radio One, Inc., 9.25%, 2/15/20 (b)(c)

       685        679,863   

RCN Telecom Services LLC/RCN Capital Corp., 8.50%, 8/15/20 (b)(c)

       630        659,925   

Sirius XM Radio, Inc., 4.25%, 5/15/20 (b)(c)

       994        988,409   

Unitymedia Hessen GmbH & Co. KG/Unitymedia NRW GmbH, 5.50%, 1/15/23 (b)(c)

       5,287        5,511,697   

Univision Communications, Inc., 5.13%, 5/15/23 (b)(c)

       2,093        2,208,115   

Virgin Media Finance PLC, 6.38%, 4/15/23 (b)(c)

       805        851,288   

WaveDivision Escrow LLC/WaveDivision Escrow Corp., 8.13%, 9/01/20 (b)(c)

       980        1,065,750   
      

 

 

 
                       56,830,645   

Metals & Mining — 1.6%

      

ArcelorMittal, 6.13%, 6/01/18 (c)

       1,900        2,033,000   

Commercial Metals Co., 4.88%, 5/15/23 (c)

       984        959,400   

Novelis, Inc., 8.75%, 12/15/20 (c)

       7,164        7,817,715   

Wise Metals Group LLC/Wise Alloys Finance Corp., 8.75%, 12/15/18 (b)(c)

       1,140        1,231,200   
      

 

 

 
                       12,041,315   

Multiline Retail — 0.4%

      

Dollar General Corp., 4.13%, 7/15/17 (c)

       643        669,643   

Neiman Marcus Group Ltd. (b)(c):

      

8.00%, 10/15/21

       927        988,818   

8.75% (8.75% Cash or 9.50% PIK), 10/15/21 (i)

       963        1,030,410   
      

 

 

 
                       2,688,871   

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 2.5%

      

Antero Resources Finance Corp.,
5.38%, 11/01/21 (c)

       284        288,260   

Athlon Holdings LP/Athlon Finance Corp., 7.38%, 4/15/21 (c)

       254        278,130   

Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc., 6.75%, 4/15/21 (c)

       99        99,248   

Chesapeake Energy Corp., 5.75%, 3/15/23 (c)

       1,145        1,253,775   

CrownRock LP/CrownRock Finance, Inc., 7.13%, 4/15/21 (b)(c)

       383        379,170   

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners LP (c):

      

6.55%, 9/15/40

       300        338,646   

5.00%, 8/15/42

       1,130        1,049,869   

5.00%, 3/01/43

       570        525,800   

Kinder Morgan, Inc., 5.63%, 11/15/23 (b)(c)

       486        534,600   

Memorial Production Partners LP/Memorial Production Finance Corp., 7.63%, 5/01/21 (c)

       334        323,562   

MIE Holdings Corp., 6.88%, 2/06/18

       2,000        1,970,000   

Pacific Drilling SA, 5.38%, 6/01/20 (b)(c)

       669        598,337   

Pertamina Persero PT, 5.63%, 5/20/43 (b)(c)

       2,000        1,915,000   

Range Resources Corp. (c):

      

5.75%, 6/01/21

       2,874        3,032,070   

5.00%, 8/15/22

       91        95,436   

5.00%, 3/15/23

       211        220,495   

Regency Energy Partners LP/Regency Energy Finance Corp., 4.50%, 11/01/23 (c)

       297        294,773   

RKI Exploration & Production LLC/RKI Finance Corp., 8.50%, 8/01/21 (b)(c)

       218        213,095   

Rosetta Resources, Inc., 5.63%, 5/01/21 (c)

       3,286        3,187,420   

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC, 6.25%, 3/15/22 (b)(c)

       752        810,280   
Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

      

Summit Midstream Holdings LLC/Summit Midstream Finance Corp., 7.50%, 7/01/21 (c)

     USD        703      $ 762,755   

Whiting Petroleum Corp., 5.00%, 3/15/19 (c)

       878        908,730   
      

 

 

 
                       19,079,451   

Paper & Forest Products — 0.1%

      

Ainsworth Lumber Co. Ltd.,
7.50%, 12/15/17 (b)(c)

             385        398,475   

Pharmaceuticals — 0.9%

      

Forest Laboratories, Inc., 5.00%, 12/15/21 (b)(c)

       718        769,375   

Grifols Worldwide Operations Ltd.,
5.25%, 4/01/22 (b)(c)

       1,094        1,121,350   

Salix Pharmaceuticals Ltd., 6.00%, 1/15/21 (b)(c)

       308        333,410   

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. (b)(c):

      

6.75%, 8/15/18

       1,807        1,922,196   

6.75%, 8/15/21

       1,276        1,317,470   

5.63%, 12/01/21

       1,182        1,170,180   
      

 

 

 
                       6,633,981   

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 0.2%

      

Felcor Lodging LP, 6.75%, 6/01/19 (c)

             1,261        1,311,440   

Real Estate Management & Development — 4.3%

  

Caifu Holdings Ltd., 8.75%, 1/24/20 (c)

       3,000        2,890,890   

Kaisa Group Holdings Ltd., 10.25%, 1/08/20 (c)

       2,000        2,079,000   

Lai Sun International Finance 2012 Ltd., 5.70%, 1/18/18

       2,000        2,000,800   

Northwest Florida Timber Finance LLC, 4.75%, 3/04/29 (b)(c)

       4,360        4,353,024   

Punch Taverns Finance B Ltd.:

      

7.37%, 6/30/22

     GBP        3,023        5,125,633   

Series A6, 5.94%, 9/30/22

       6,346        10,227,837   

Realogy Corp., 7.63%, 1/15/20 (b)(c)

     USD        2,454        2,662,590   

Shea Homes LP/Shea Homes Funding Corp., 8.63%, 5/15/19 (c)

       1,505        1,602,825   

Sparkle Assets Ltd., 6.88%, 1/30/20

       2,000        2,027,600   
      

 

 

 
                       32,970,199   

Road & Rail — 0.5%

      

The Hertz Corp. (c):

      

4.25%, 4/01/18

       400        400,000   

7.38%, 1/15/21

       3,075        3,251,813   
      

 

 

 
                       3,651,813   

Software — 0.7%

      

Infor US, Inc., 9.38%, 4/01/19 (c)

       2,400        2,610,000   

Nuance Communications, Inc., 5.38%, 8/15/20 (b)(c)

       1,605        1,613,025   

Sophia LP/Sophia Finance, Inc.,
9.75%, 1/15/19 (b)(c)

       1,220        1,308,450   
      

 

 

 
                       5,531,475   

Specialty Retail — 0.2%

      

Party City Holdings, Inc., 8.88%, 8/01/20 (c)

       623        675,955   

Sally Holdings LLC/Sally Capital, Inc., 5.75%, 6/01/22 (c)

       647        689,055   
      

 

 

 
                       1,365,010   

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 0.1%

  

Pacific Emerald Property Ltd., 9.75%, 7/25/18

             1,000        1,087,500   

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.3%

  

Springs Industries, Inc., 6.25%, 6/01/21 (c)

       1,434        1,407,113   

The William Carter Co., 5.25%, 8/15/21 (c)

       604        622,120   
      

 

 

 
                       2,029,233   

Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.6%

      

Doric Nimrod Air Alpha 2013-1 Pass-Through Trust, 5.25%, 5/30/25 (b)(c)

       2,871        3,021,680   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    39


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Corporate Bonds   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Trading Companies & Distributors (concluded)

  

   

Doric Nimrod Air Finance Alpha Ltd. Pass-Through Trust, Series 2012-1, Class B,
6.50%, 5/30/21 (b)(c)

     USD        1,160      $ 1,226,707   
      

 

 

 
                       4,248,387   

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 4.0%

      

Crown Castle International Corp.,
5.25%, 1/15/23 (c)

       6,565        6,720,919   

Digicel Ltd., 6.00%, 4/15/21 (b)(c)

       5,000        5,050,000   

Softbank Corp., 4.50%, 4/15/20 (b)(c)

       1,500        1,518,750   

Sprint Communications, Inc., 9.00%, 11/15/18 (b)(c)

       8,131        9,564,089   

Sprint Corp., 7.88%, 9/15/23 (b)(c)

       1,922        2,080,565   

T-Mobile USA, Inc. (c):

      

6.63%, 4/28/21

       3,820        4,025,325   

6.73%, 4/28/22

       945        999,337   

6.84%, 4/28/23

       610        645,075   
      

 

 

 
                       30,604,060   
Total Corporate Bonds — 64.8%        495,194,955   
 
                          
Floating Rate Loan Interests (a)                      

Aerospace & Defense — 0.3%

      

TransUnion LLC, Term Loan, 4.00%, 4/09/21

             1,935        1,909,749   

Airlines — 0.4%

      

Delta Air Lines, Inc., 2016 Term Loan B2, 2.40%, 4/18/16

             2,948        2,929,078   

Auto Components — 0.3%

      

Gates Global, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.25%, 7/05/21

             2,365        2,335,437   

Chemicals — 0.0%

      

Allnex (Luxembourg) & Cy SCA, Term Loan B1, 4.50%, 10/03/19

       88        87,103   

Allnex USA, Inc., Term Loan B2, 4.50%, 10/03/19

       46        45,194   

Tronox Pigments (Netherlands) BV, 2013 Term Loan, 4.00%, 3/19/20

       246        243,843   
      

 

 

 
                       376,140   

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.4%

      

ADS Waste Holdings, Inc., Term Loan, 3.75%, 10/09/19

       639        624,415   

ARAMARK Services, Inc., Term Loan E, 3.25%, 9/07/19

       437        430,110   

Spin Holdco, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.25%, 11/14/19

       1,933        1,911,771   
      

 

 

 
                       2,966,296   

Communications Equipment — 0.2%

      

Zayo Group LLC/Zayo Capital, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 7/02/19

             1,920        1,901,730   

Construction Materials — 0.3%

      

HD Supply, Inc., Term Loan B, 4.00%, 6/28/18

             2,486        2,459,702   

Distributors — 0.1%

      

ABC Supply Co., Inc., Term Loan, 3.50%, 4/16/20

             594        580,142   

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.1%

      

Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc., Term Loan B, 3.75%, 1/30/20

       491        484,741   

Weight Watchers International, Inc., Term Loan B2, 4.00%, 4/02/20

       493        375,531   
      

 

 

 
                       860,272   

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.3%

  

Level 3 Financing, Inc., 2020 Term Loan B, 4.00%, 1/15/20

             2,275        2,263,625   
Floating Rate Loan Interests (a)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.0%

  

CDW LLC, Term Loan, 3.25%, 4/29/20

     USD        296      $ 288,693   

Energy Equipment & Services — 0.2%

      

Dynegy Holdings, Inc., Term Loan B2, 4.00%, 4/23/20

             1,620        1,608,374   

Food Products — 0.2%

      

Pinnacle Foods Finance LLC, Term Loan G, 3.25%, 4/29/20

             1,457        1,428,777   

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.1%

      

Immucor, Inc., Refinancing Term Loan B2, 5.00%, 8/17/18

             737        735,261   

Health Care Providers & Services — 0.1%

      

American Renal Holdings, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan, 4.50%, 9/20/19

             463        454,540   

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 3.3%

      

Caesars Entertainment Resort Properties LLC, Term Loan B, 7.00%, 10/11/20

       1,821        1,734,310   

Hilton Fort Lauderdale, Mezzanine Term Loan 5, 6.15%, 8/04/19

       6,500        6,500,000   

Hilton Los Cabos, B-Note, 8.16%, 9/18/18

       5,375        5,375,000   

Hilton Orlando, Mezzanine A3, 6.41%, 8/01/16

       7,250        7,250,000   

Hilton Worldwide Finance LLC, Term Loan B2, 3.50%, 10/26/20

       2,411        2,385,286   

MGM Resorts International, Term Loan A, 2.90%, 12/20/17

       1,228        1,214,309   

Station Casinos LLC, Term Loan B, 4.25%, 3/02/20

       954        942,610   
      

 

 

 
                       25,401,515   

Insurance — 0.3%

  

Sedgwick, Inc., 1st Lien Term Loan, 3.75%, 3/01/21

             1,995        1,936,634   

IT Services — 0.4%

      

First Data Corp., New 2018 Extended Term Loan, 3.65%, 3/23/18

       3,000        2,970,000   

SunGard Data Systems, Inc., Term Loan E, 4.00%, 3/08/20

       227        225,602   
      

 

 

 
                       3,195,602   

Machinery — 0.3%

  

Generac Power Systems, Inc., Term Loan B, 3.25%, 5/31/20

       903        884,007   

Silver II US Holdings LLC, Term Loan, 4.00%, 12/13/19

       1,178        1,156,805   
      

 

 

 
                       2,040,812   

Media — 0.2%

  

Clear Channel Communications, Inc.:

      

Term Loan B, 3.80%, 1/29/16

       36        35,949   

Term Loan D, 6.90%, 1/30/19

       675        636,395   

Univision Communications, Inc., Term Loan C4, 4.00%, 3/01/20

       493        487,194   

Virgin Media Investment Holdings Ltd., Term Loan B, 3.50%, 6/07/20

       700        689,696   
      

 

 

 
                       1,849,234   

Metals & Mining — 0.2%

      

FMG Resources (August 2006) Property Ltd., Term Loan B, 3.75%, 6/30/19

             1,315        1,281,674   

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 0.2%

      

Offshore Group Investment Ltd., Term Loan B, 5.75%, 3/28/19

       1,182        1,069,710   

Power Buyer LLC:

      

1st Lien Term Loan, 4.25%, 5/06/20

       685        668,118   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
40    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Floating Rate Loan Interests (a)   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

  

   

Power Buyer LLC (concluded):

      

Delayed Draw Term Loan, 4.25%, 5/06/20

     USD        36      $ 35,585   
      

 

 

 
                       1,773,413   

Pharmaceuticals — 0.1%

      

Par Pharmaceutical Cos., Inc., Term Loan B2, 4.00%, 9/30/19

             740        727,799   

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 0.5%

  

 

BRE Select Holdings LP, Mezzanine Term Loan, 6.80%, 12/15/15

             3,460        3,494,600   

Real Estate Management & Development — 0.1%

  

 

Realogy Corp., Term Loan B, 3.75%, 3/05/20

             882        873,911   

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 0.1%

  

 

Freescale Semiconductor, Inc., Term Loan B4, 4.25%, 2/28/20

             493        485,318   

Specialty Retail — 0.1%

      

Party City Holdings, Inc., Term Loan, 4.00%, 7/27/19

       983        961,518   

SRAM LLC, Term Loan B, 4.00%-5.25%, 4/10/20

       128        125,448   
      

 

 

 
                       1,086,966   

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 0.5%

  

 

Walton Portland Holdings VI LLC, Mezzanine Term Loan, 7.48%, 7/06/16

             3,750        3,750,000   
Total Floating Rate Loan Interests — 9.3%                      70,995,294   
      
                          
Foreign Agency Obligations                      

Cyprus Government International Bond, 4.63%, 2/03/20 (b)

     EUR        2,950        3,493,839   

Iceland Government International Bond, 5.88%, 5/11/22 (c)

     USD        3,415        3,858,738   

Slovenia Government International Bond, 5.85%, 5/10/23 (b)(c)

       766        859,360   

Sri Lanka Government International Bond, 5.88%, 7/25/22 (c)

             3,000        3,120,000   
Total Foreign Agency Obligations — 1.5%                      11,331,937   
      
                          
Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities         

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations — 35.3%

  

 

Alternative Loan Trust:

      

Series 2005-61, Class 2A1, 0.43%, 12/25/35 (a)

       4,565        3,992,510   

Series 2005-9CB, Class 1A3, 0.60%, 5/25/35 (a)

       6,958        5,789,346   

Series 2006-40T1, Class 2A5, 0.55%, 12/25/36 (a)

       3,660        1,691,621   

Series 2006-7CB, Class 2A1, 6.50%, 5/25/36

       5,120        3,516,390   

Series 2006-J7, Class 2A1, 2.17%, 11/20/36 (a)

       11,168        7,433,665   

Series 2006-J8, Class A5, 6.00%, 2/25/37

       2,961        2,341,626   

Series 2006-OA10, Class 2A1, 0.34%, 8/25/46 (a)

       10,036        7,611,763   

Series 2006-OA14, Class 3A1, 0.96%, 11/25/46 (a)

       16,280        12,070,583   

Series 2006-OA16, Class A2, 0.34%, 10/25/46 (a)

       11,812        10,006,347   

Series 2006-OA18, Class A1, 0.27%, 12/25/46 (a)

       7,027        6,072,752   

Series 2006-OA22, Class A1, 0.31%, 2/25/47 (a)

       6,074        5,313,649   
Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (continued)

  

 

Alternative Loan Trust (concluded):

      

Series 2006-OA6, Class 1A1A,
0.36%, 7/25/46 (a)

     USD        12,942      $ 9,705,972   

Series 2006-OA8, Class 1A1,
0.34%, 7/25/46 (a)

       4,106        3,302,056   

Series 2007-12T1, Class A22, 5.75%, 6/25/37

       8,142        6,830,305   

Series 2007-12T1, Class A5, 6.00%, 6/25/37

       3,951        3,369,349   

Series 2007-22, Class 2A16, 6.50%, 9/25/37

       13,362        10,825,125   

Series 2007-23CB, Class A1, 6.00%, 9/25/37

       12,449        10,951,262   

Series 2007-4CB, Class 1A3, 0.50%, 4/25/37 (a)

       7,964        5,876,686   

Series 2007-OA2, Class 1A1, 0.95%, 3/25/47 (a)

       7,821        5,772,809   

Series 2007-OA6, Class A1A, 0.29%, 6/25/37 (a)

       12,313        10,454,771   

American Home Mortgage Assets Trust, Series 2006-5, Class A1,
1.03%, 11/25/46 (a)

       7,248        3,939,438   

American Home Mortgage Investment Trust, Series 2007-1, Class GA1C,
0.34%, 5/25/47 (a)

       5,010        3,584,210   

Banc of America Funding Trust, Series 2006-G, Class 2A1, 0.38%, 7/20/36 (a)

       2,772        2,573,976   

Bear Stearns ARM Trust, Series 2006-1, Class A1, 2.36%, 2/25/36 (a)

       4,811        4,793,742   

CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust:

      

Series 2006-3, Class 1A1, 0.39%, 3/25/36 (a)

       16,258        13,904,366   

Series 2007-J2, Class 2A1, 0.80%, 7/25/37 (a)

       7,206        4,936,018   

Series 2007-J2, Class 2A8, 6.00%, 7/25/37

       3,979        3,362,014   

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust:

      

Series 2005-9, Class 21A2, 5.50%, 11/25/35

       6,866        6,343,772   

Series 2006-AR7, Class 2A3A, 2.45%, 11/25/36 (a)

       9,709        7,926,012   

Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass-Through Trust, Series 2006-OA5, Class 3A1, 0.35%, 4/25/46 (a)

       12,928        11,288,579   

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Trust, Series 2008-2R, Class 1A1,
6.00%, 7/25/37 (b)

       3,869        3,369,124   

Fannie Mae Connecticut Avenue Securities, Class 1M2 (a):

      

Series 2014-C02, 2.75%, 5/25/24

       10,000        8,877,220   

Series 2014-C03, 3.15%, 7/25/24

       15,000        13,731,090   

GreenPoint Mortgage Funding Trust,
Series 2007-AR3, Class A1, 0.37%, 6/25/37 (a)

       7,808        6,583,791   

GSR Mortgage Loan Trust (a):

      

Series 2005-AR3, Class 5A1, 2.67%, 5/25/35

       4,058        3,938,085   

Series 2005-AR6, Class 2A1, 2.66%, 9/25/35

       2,802        2,810,623   

Morgan Stanley Re-REMIC Trust, Series 2010-R5, Class 7B, 0.38%, 5/26/37 (a)(b)

       19,883        12,440,547   

Nomura Asset Acceptance Corp. Alternative Loan Trust, Series 2006-AF1, Class 1A2, 6.16%, 5/25/36 (a)

       10,255        5,640,342   

Residential Asset Securitization Trust, Series 2006-A8, Class 2A5,
0.75%, 8/25/36 (a)

       8,947        4,051,933   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    41


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (concluded)

  

 

Structured Asset Mortgage Investments II Trust, Series 2006-AR1, Class 3A1,
0.38%, 2/25/36 (a)

     USD        4,502      $ 3,669,352   

WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Class 1A (a):

      

Series 2006-AR19, 0.85%, 1/25/47

       3,419        2,783,671   

Series 2007-OA4, 0.88%, 5/25/47

       6,794        5,805,550   
      

 

 

 
                       269,282,042   

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities — 18.4%

  

 

Bank of America Merrill Lynch Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2013-DSMZ, Class M, 5.84%, 9/15/18 (a)(b)

       7,500        7,499,959   

BHMS Mortgage Trust, Series 2014-MZ, Class M, 7.37%, 7/05/33 (a)(b)

       2,000        2,014,179   

CD Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2007-CD5, Class C, 6.11%, 11/15/44 (a)

       3,372        3,347,610   

CG-CCRE Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2014-FL1 (a)(b):

      

Class D, 2.90%, 6/15/31 (c)

       3,000        2,983,038   

Class E, 4.80%, 6/15/31

       1,931        1,920,325   

Commercial Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates (a)(b):

      

Series 2007-C9, Class G, 5.80%, 12/10/49

       5,120        5,019,981   

Series 2013-FL3, Class MMHP, 3.75%, 10/13/28

       4,000        3,999,800   

Series 2013-LC13, Class D, 5.05%, 8/10/46

       2,650        2,619,289   

Series 2014-CR16, Class D, 4.91%, 4/10/47

       2,000        1,895,184   

Series 2014-KYO, Class F, 3.65%, 6/11/27

       9,000        8,980,038   

Series 2014-LC15, Class D, 4.94%, 4/10/47

       3,000        2,821,839   

Series 2014-PAT, Class E, 3.30%, 8/13/27

       1,000        990,219   

Series 2014-PAT, Class F, 2.59%, 8/13/27

       3,000        2,844,375   

Series 2014-PAT, Class G, 1.75%, 8/13/27

       2,000        1,751,250   

Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2007-GG11, Class AJ, 6.05%, 12/10/49 (a)

       2,000        2,090,604   

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 2005-C3, Class B, 4.88%, 7/15/37

       2,000        1,993,818   

Del Coronado Trust, Series 2013-HDMZ, Class M, 5.15%, 3/15/18 (a)(b)

       6,000        6,013,200   

GS Mortgage Securities Trust (a):

      

Series 2006-GG6, Class AJ, 5.52%, 4/10/38

       5,000        5,140,575   

Series 2006-GG6, Class C, 5.55%, 4/10/38

       6,480        6,490,767   

Series 2014-GSFL, Class D,
4.05%, 7/15/31 (b)

       1,325        1,321,254   

Series 2014-GSFL, Class E,
6.10%, 7/15/31 (b)

       1,000        987,395   

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust (a):

      

Series 2007-CB20, Class AJ, 6.07%, 2/12/51

       4,000        4,216,868   

Series 2007-CB20, Class B,
6.17%, 2/12/51 (b)

       1,000        1,045,213   

Series 2014-CBMZ, Class M, 6.38%, 10/15/29 (b)

       4,000        4,000,000   

Series 2014-DSTY, Class E,
3.80%, 6/10/27 (b)

       5,000        4,568,045   

LB-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust:

      

Series 2006-C4, Class AJ, 5.85%, 6/15/38 (a)

       5,000        5,243,325   

Series 2007-C1, Class AJ, 5.48%, 2/15/40

       2,000        2,081,386   

Series 2007-C2, Class AM, 5.49%, 2/15/40 (a)

       5,000        5,301,955   

Series 2007-C7, Class AJ, 6.25%, 9/15/45 (a)

       5,000        5,288,165   

Series 2007-C7, Class B, 6.25%, 9/15/45 (a)

       871        887,546   
Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (concluded)

  

 

London & Regional Debt Securitisation No. 2 PLC, Series 2, Class A, 3.56%, 10/15/15 (a)

     GBP        3,624      $ 5,867,411   

Hilton USA Trust, Series 2013-HLT, Class EFX, 5.22%, 11/05/30 (a)(b)

     USD        5,000        5,094,025   

Madison Avenue Trust, Series 2013-650M, Class E, 4.03%, 10/12/32 (a)(b)

       5,000        4,808,725   

New York Mortgage Securitization Trust, Series 2013-1, Class A, 5.40%, 8/27/24 (a)(b)

       5,000        5,025,000   

RBSSP Resecuritization Trust, Series 2013-5, Class 3A1, 0.51%, 1/26/36 (a)(b)

       2,345        2,026,601   

Talisman Finance PLC, Series 6, Class A, 0.26%, 10/22/16 (a)

     EUR        5,209        6,361,137   

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2007-C33, Class AJ, 5.94%, 2/15/51 (a)

     USD        6,000        6,306,744   
      

 

 

 
                       140,846,845   
Total Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities — 53.7%        410,128,887   
 
                          
Preferred Securities                      
Capital Trusts                      

Banks — 3.9%

      

BNP Paribas SA, 7.20% (a)(b)(c)(h)

       7,500        8,648,475   

Fifth Third Bancorp, Series J, 4.90% (a)(c)(h)

       3,000        2,950,800   

HSBC Holdings PLC, 5.63% (a)(c)(h)

       3,720        3,780,450   

Lloyds Bank PLC, 12.00% (a)(b)(c)(h)

       3,500        5,066,250   

Wachovia Capital Trust III, 5.57% (a)(c)(h)

       10,000        9,675,000   
      

 

 

 
                       30,120,975   

Capital Markets — 1.4%

      

The Bank of New York Mellon Corp., Series D, 4.50% (a)(c)(h)

       6,067        5,740,899   

Credit Suisse Group AG, 6.25% (a)(b)(c)(h)

       1,035        1,006,537   

Morgan Stanley, Series H, 5.45% (a)(c)(h)

       3,644        3,661,083   
      

 

 

 
                       10,408,519   

Diversified Financial Services — 5.9%

      

Bank of America Corp. (a)(c)(h):

      

Series U, 5.20%

       1,750        1,623,125   

Series V, 5.13%

       7,965        7,726,050   

Citigroup, Inc. (a)(c)(h):

      

5.90%

       2,250        2,238,750   

Series D, 5.35%

       3,700        3,450,250   

General Electric Capital Corp.,
Series B, 6.25% (a)(c)(h)

       5,000        5,468,950   

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (a)(c)(h):

      

Series Q, 5.15%

       5,500        5,211,250   

Series V, 5.00%

       2,500        2,459,375   

Macquarie Bank Ltd., 10.25%, 6/20/57 (a)(c)

       10,000        11,300,000   

Societe Generale SA, 6.00% (a)(b)(c)(h)

       5,540        5,221,450   
      

 

 

 
                       44,699,200   

Electric Utilities — 1.0%

      

Electricite de France SA, 5.25% (a)(b)(c)(h)

             7,500        7,781,250   

Insurance — 8.3%

      

The Allstate Corp., 5.75%, 8/15/53 (a)(c)

       2,000        2,127,500   

American International Group, Inc., 8.18%, 5/15/68 (a)(c)

       4,500        6,108,750   

AXA SA, 6.46% (a)(b)(c)(h)

       10,000        10,443,800   

Genworth Holdings, Inc.,
6.15%, 11/15/66 (a)(c)

       10,000        8,550,000   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
42    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

(Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Capital Trusts   

Par  

(000)

    Value  

Insurance (concluded)

      

Liberty Mutual Group, Inc.,
7.80%, 3/07/87 (b)(c)

     USD        14,000      $ 16,380,000   

Prudential Financial, Inc.,
5.63%, 6/15/43 (a)(c)

       6,000        6,225,000   

Sompo Japan Insurance, Inc., 5.33%, 3/28/73 (a)(b)(c)

       6,000        6,315,000   

Voya Financial, Inc., 5.65%, 5/15/53 (a)(c)

       1,090        1,090,000   

XL Group PLC, Series E, 6.50% (a)(c)(h)

       6,500        6,236,750   
      

 

 

 
                       63,476,800   

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.1%

      

DCP Midstream LLC, 5.85%, 5/21/43 (a)(b)(c)

       5,020        4,957,250   

Enterprise Products Operating LLC, Series A, 8.38%, 8/01/66 (a)(c)

       3,248        3,548,440   
      

 

 

 
                       8,505,690   
Total Capital Trusts21.6%                      164,992,434   
      
                          
Preferred Stocks           Shares         

Aerospace & Defense — 0.4%

      

United Technologies Corp., 7.50% (j)

             50,000        2,918,500   

Capital Markets — 1.7%

      

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Series J, 5.50% (a)(h)

       395,017        9,452,757   

Morgan Stanley, 6.88% (a)(h)

       100,000        2,652,000   

SCE Trust III, 5.75% (a)(h)

       23,730        641,659   
      

 

 

 
                       12,746,416   

Diversified Financial Services — 0.2%

      

Citigroup, Inc., Series K, 6.88% (a)(h)

             75,000        2,007,000   
Preferred Stocks   

Shares

    Value  

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 1.9%

      

Firstar Realty LLC, 8.88% (b)(h)

       10,000      $ 12,496,875   

SunTrust Real Estate Investment Corp., 9.00% (b)(h)

       15        1,824,665   
      

 

 

 
                   14,321,540   
Total Preferred Stocks — 4.2%                  31,993,456   
Total Preferred Securities — 25.8%                  196,985,890   
Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $1,378,595,377) — 183.6%
                 1,402,003,355   
      
                      
Short-Term Securities                    

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, Institutional Class, 0.07% (k)(l)

         18,823,385        18,823,385   
Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $18,823,385) — 2.4%
                 18,823,385   
Options Purchased
(Cost — $18,750) — 0.0%
        3,750   
Total Investments Before Options Written
(Cost — $1,397,437,512) — 186.1%
        1,420,830,490   
Options Written
(Premiums Received — $5,938) — (0.0)%
        (250
Total Investments, Net of Options Written
(Cost — $1,397,431,574) — 186.1%
        1,420,830,240   
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (86.1)%        (657,470,525
      

 

 

 
Net Assets — 100.0%
     $ 763,359,715   
      

 

 

 

 

Notes to Schedule of Investments

 

(a)   Variable rate security. Rate shown is as of report date.

 

(b)   Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors.

 

(c)   All or a portion of security has been pledged as collateral in connection with outstanding reverse repurchase agreements.

 

(d)   Represents a step-up bond that pays an initial coupon rate for the first period and then a higher coupon rate for the following periods. Rate shown is as of report date.

 

(e)   Zero-coupon bond.

 

(f)   Amount is less than $500.

 

(g)   When-issued security. Unsettled when-issued transactions were as follows:

 

Counterparty      Value        Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Bank of America N.A.

     $ 3,294,550             

 

(h)   Security is perpetual in nature and has no stated maturity date.

 

(i)   Represents a payment-in-kind security which may pay interest/dividends in additional par/shares and/or in cash. Rates shown are the current rate and possible payment rates.

 

(j)   Convertible security.

 

(k)   Investments in issuers considered to be an affiliate of the Trust during the year ended October 31, 2014, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the 1940 Act, were as follows:

 

Affiliate      Shares Held
at October 31,
2013
       Net
Activity
       Shares Held
at October 31,
2014
       Income  

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, Institutional Class

       10,668,292           8,155,093           18,823,385         $ 6,878   

 

(l)   Represents the current yield as of report date.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    43


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

 

Ÿ  

For Trust compliance purposes, the Trust’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the investment advisor. These definitions may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine such industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

Ÿ  

Reverse repurchase agreements outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Counterparty      Interest
Rate
       Trade
Date
       Maturity
Date1
       Face Value        Face Value
Including
Accrued
Interest
 

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        1/14/14           Open         $ 13,719,000         $ 13,756,704   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.65        2/03/14           Open           1,869,145           1,878,291   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        2/04/14           Open           4,837,500           4,859,269   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        2/06/14           Open           215,000           215,928   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        2/07/14           Open           288,000           289,175   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        2/28/14           Open           1,502,000           1,507,645   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        2/28/14           Open           1,127,000           1,131,236   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        3/03/14           Open           2,225,000           2,234,011   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        3/12/14           Open           658,000           660,481   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.45        3/20/14           Open           4,902,000           4,915,787   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.45        3/20/14           Open           1,414,000           1,417,977   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           617,000           619,121   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           1,094,000           1,097,761   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           5,231,000           5,248,982   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           2,250,000           2,257,734   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           7,582,500           7,608,565   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           5,096,000           5,113,517   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           2,376,000           2,384,167   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           172,000           172,591   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           2,696,000           2,705,267   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           4,235,000           4,249,558   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           3,082,000           3,092,594   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           4,647,000           4,662,974   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           3,094,000           3,104,636   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           2,454,000           2,462,436   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           3,115,000           3,125,708   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           2,079,000           2,086,147   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           618,000           620,124   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           10,343,000           10,378,554   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           3,044,000           3,054,464   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           651,000           653,238   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           5,781,000           5,800,872   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           4,544,000           4,559,620   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        3/20/14           Open           4,900,000           4,916,844   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        4/07/14           Open           2,885,335           2,895,337   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/07/14           Open           674,880           677,142   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.50        4/21/14           Open           1,940,000           1,945,213   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           603,000           604,782   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           4,849,000           4,863,333   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           3,345,000           3,354,887   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           2,550,000           2,557,537   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           3,735,000           3,746,040   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           5,704,000           5,720,860   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           1,317,000           1,320,883   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           1,100,000           1,103,251   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           4,230,000           4,242,503   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        4/21/14           Open           2,086,000           2,092,166   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           1,483,000           1,487,623   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           378,000           379,178   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           2,533,000           2,540,896   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           667,000           669,079   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           348,000           349,085   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           667,000           669,079   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           653,000           655,035   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           626,000           627,951   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           4,524,000           4,538,102   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           632,000           633,970   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           633,000           634,973   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           727,000           729,266   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           359,000           360,119   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
44    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

Reverse repurchase agreements outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows (continued):

 

Counterparty      Interest
Rate
       Trade
Date
       Maturity
Date1
       Face Value        Face Value
Including
Accrued
Interest
 

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open         $ 882,000         $ 884,749   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           588,000           589,833   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           1,855,000           1,860,782   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           1,515,000           1,519,722   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           2,957,000           2,966,217   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           297,000           297,926   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           435,000           436,356   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           652,000           654,032   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        4/21/14           Open           1,309,000           1,313,080   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.40        5/05/14           Open           4,524,000           4,532,998   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/05/14           Open           1,015,000           1,017,776   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/05/14           Open           186,000           186,509   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/05/14           Open           1,495,000           1,499,088   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.45        5/07/14           Open           2,528,000           2,533,625   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.55        5/07/14           Open           3,248,000           3,256,833   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        5/12/14           Open           1,095,000           1,098,157   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/13/14           Open           2,865,000           2,872,485   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        5/13/14           Open           515,000           516,419   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        5/13/14           Open           567,000           568,562   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        5/13/14           Open           702,000           703,967   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        5/13/14           Open           955,000           957,676   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        5/13/14           Open           911,000           913,553   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        5/13/14           Open           276,000           276,787   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        5/13/14           Open           264,000           264,752   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        5/13/14           Open           508,000           509,448   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        5/13/14           Open           617,000           618,758   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        5/13/14           Open           597,000           598,701   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.40        5/13/14           Open           5,061,000           5,070,616   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.45        5/13/14           Open           7,397,000           7,412,811   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.50        5/13/14           Open           7,707,000           7,725,304   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.50        5/13/14           Open           8,271,000           8,290,644   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.50        5/13/14           Open           5,837,000           5,850,863   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.55        5/13/14           Open           4,748,000           4,760,404   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.55        5/13/14           Open           2,810,000           2,817,341   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.55        5/13/14           Open           10,300,000           10,326,909   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.55        5/13/14           Open           1,815,000           1,819,742   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.55        5/13/14           Open           9,085,000           9,108,735   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.55        5/13/14           Open           8,988,000           9,011,481   

UBS Securities LLC

       0.60        5/13/14           Open           2,713,000           2,720,732   

Barclays Bank PLC

       0.70        5/14/14           Open           2,646,000           2,654,746   

Barclays Bank PLC

       0.85        5/14/14           Open           1,614,000           1,620,478   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.40        5/14/14           Open           5,942,000           5,958,836   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.40        5/14/14           Open           6,277,000           6,293,303   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.45        5/14/14           Open           5,999,000           6,015,431   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.45        5/14/14           Open           10,141,000           10,169,733   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.45        5/14/14           Open           9,120,000           9,145,840   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.45        5/14/14           Open           5,189,000           5,201,252   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           1,320,000           1,323,678   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           6,086,000           6,103,244   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           881,000           883,080   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           950,000           952,692   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           2,479,000           2,483,683   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           2,129,000           2,134,529   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           1,483,000           1,487,202   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           1,222,000           1,225,347   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           3,073,000           3,081,562   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           1,212,000           1,215,434   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           793,000           795,247   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           799,000           801,264   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           1,218,000           1,221,336   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        5/14/14           Open           1,219,000           1,222,396   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/15/14           Open           1,473,000           1,476,826   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/15/14           Open           1,527,000           1,530,966   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    45


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

Reverse repurchase agreements outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows (continued):

 

Counterparty      Interest
Rate
       Trade
Date
       Maturity
Date1
       Face Value        Face Value
Including
Accrued
Interest
 

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/15/14           Open         $ 1,293,000         $ 1,296,358   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        5/15/14           Open           1,361,000           1,364,535   

Barclays Bank PLC

       0.25        5/23/14           Open           4,288,000           4,292,705   

Barclays Bank PLC

       0.25        5/23/14           Open           2,203,000           2,205,417   

Barclays Bank PLC

       0.70        5/23/14           Open           10,050,000           10,080,876   

Barclays Bank PLC

       0.75        5/23/14           Open           2,393,000           2,400,877   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        6/02/14           Open           1,280,000           1,282,972   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        6/02/14           Open           2,193,000           2,198,093   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        6/02/14           Open           759,000           760,763   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        6/02/14           Open           2,036,000           2,040,728   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/05/14           Open           1,037,177           1,039,753   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/06/14           Open           657,352           658,973   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        6/06/14           Open           636,000           637,516   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/16/14           Open           300,000           300,685   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/16/14           Open           2,038,000           2,042,653   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/16/14           Open           1,166,000           1,168,662   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/16/14           Open           892,000           894,037   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/16/14           Open           520,000           521,187   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/16/14           Open           3,471,000           3,478,925   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        6/16/14           Open           692,000           693,580   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           1,764,000           1,767,787   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           233,000           233,500   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           124,000           124,266   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           200,000           200,429   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           181,000           181,389   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           255,000           255,547   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           259,000           259,556   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           269,000           269,577   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           88,000           88,189   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           97,000           97,208   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           147,000           147,316   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           108,000           108,232   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           260,000           260,558   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           952,000           954,044   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           208,000           208,447   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           374,000           374,803   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           134,000           134,288   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           89,000           89,191   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           269,000           269,578   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           391,000           391,839   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/20/14           Open           157,000           157,337   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        6/27/14           Open           407,000           407,847   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        7/22/14           Open           3,037,114           3,041,847   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        7/23/14           Open           2,523,000           2,526,893   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        7/28/14           Open           2,475,000           2,478,960   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        7/28/14           Open           2,303,000           2,306,685   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        7/30/14           Open           855,000           856,317   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        7/30/14           Open           1,421,250           1,423,477   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        8/01/14           Open           584,000           584,866   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/12/14           Open           2,281,000           2,284,028   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/12/14           Open           1,838,000           1,840,440   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/12/14           Open           2,046,000           2,048,716   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/12/14           Open           2,703,000           2,706,588   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/12/14           Open           1,879,000           1,881,494   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/12/14           Open           1,949,000           1,951,587   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/12/14           Open           2,514,000           2,517,337   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14           Open           2,869,000           2,872,762   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14           Open           2,416,000           2,419,168   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14           Open           695,000           695,911   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14           Open           2,355,000           2,358,088   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14           Open           1,861,000           1,863,440   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14           Open           226,000           226,296   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14           Open           3,564,000           3,568,673   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
46    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

Reverse repurchase agreements outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows (continued):

 

Counterparty      Interest
Rate
       Trade
Date
       Maturity
Date1
     Face Value        Face Value
Including
Accrued
Interest
 

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14         Open      $ 96,000         $ 96,126   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/13/14         Open        1,897,000           1,899,487   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       (1.75 )%         8/22/14         Open        3,611,406           3,598,942   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        8/22/14         Open        332,000           332,223   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.34        8/22/14         Open        688,000           688,461   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.63        8/22/14         Open        3,730,000           3,734,635   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.63        8/22/14         Open        362,000           362,450   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.65        8/22/14         Open        721,000           721,924   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        938,000           939,091   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        2,801,000           2,804,259   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        2,798,000           2,801,256   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        1,644,000           1,645,913   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        4,532,000           4,537,273   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        2,876,000           2,879,347   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        1,953,000           1,955,273   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/22/14         Open        2,923,000           2,926,401   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        8/28/14         Open        255,000           255,272   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        9/15/14         Open        2,303,000           2,304,744   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.57        9/16/14         Open        6,219,000           6,223,431   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.57        9/16/14         Open        7,786,000           7,791,547   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       0.57        9/16/14         Open        7,417,000           7,422,285   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.34        9/16/14         Open        518,700           518,920   

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       0.65        9/16/14         Open        2,075,000           2,076,686   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       1.15        10/01/14         11/03/14        8,386,000           8,394,319   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       1.40        10/02/14         11/03/14        22,384,670           22,409,951   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        10/02/14         Open        616,000           616,288   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        10/02/14         Open        368,000           368,172   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        10/02/14         Open        429,000           429,204   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        10/02/14         Open        712,000           712,338   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        10/02/14         Open        824,000           824,392   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        10/02/14         Open        476,000           476,226   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        10/02/14         Open        1,084,000           1,084,524   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        10/02/14         Open        2,755,000           2,756,332   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        10/02/14         Open        1,084,000           1,084,524   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        10/02/14         Open        6,209,000           6,212,001   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.60        10/02/14         Open        706,000           706,341   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.55        10/06/14         Open        496,000           496,197   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       1.40        10/07/14         11/07/14        8,798,000           8,806,226   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        10/07/14         Open        111,720           111,765   

JPMorgan Securities LLC

       1.30        10/08/14         11/07/14        2,583,000           2,585,242   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       1.15        10/08/14         11/10/14        10,243,000           10,250,538   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       1.15        10/08/14         11/10/14        15,867,000           15,879,191   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       1.40        10/09/14         11/10/14        13,454,000           13,465,533   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       1.40        10/15/14         11/14/14        8,895,000           8,900,888   

JPMorgan Securities LLC

       1.30        10/15/14         11/14/14        2,550,000           2,551,570   

JPMorgan Securities LLC

       1.40        10/15/14         11/14/14        2,554,000           2,555,693   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.45        10/15/14         Open        3,348,000           3,348,670   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.45        10/15/14         Open        798,000           798,160   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        10/15/14         Open        2,413,000           2,413,622   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.58        10/16/14         Open        536,640           536,778   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        10/16/14         Open        1,312,500           1,312,844   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        10/20/14         Open        581,000           581,114   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       1.41        10/21/14         11/20/14        12,418,000           12,422,849   

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

       0.59        10/24/14         Open        763,332           763,433   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        4,473,000           4,473,027   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        3,127,000           3,127,036   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        1,994,000           1,994,020   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        766,000           766,207   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        234,000           234,012   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        970,000           970,016   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        323,000           323,020   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        2,449,000           2,449,033   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        14,852,000           14,852,041   

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    47


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

Reverse repurchase agreements outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows (concluded):

 

Counterparty      Interest
Rate
       Trade
Date
       Maturity
Date1
     Face Value        Face Value
Including
Accrued
Interest
 

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open      $ 300,000         $ 300,046   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        4,675,000           4,675,050   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        1,001,000           1,001,054   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        474,000           474,063   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        642,000           642,067   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        1,237,000           1,237,071   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        781,000           781,092   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.60        10/29/14         Open        194,000           194,088   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.65        10/29/14         Open        803,000           803,075   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.65        10/29/14         Open        927,000           927,084   

Barclays Capital, Inc.

       0.75        10/29/14         Open        4,813,000           4,813,058   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.40        10/29/14         Open        2,665,000           2,665,037   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.65        10/29/14         Open        590,000           590,025   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.65        10/29/14         Open        810,000           810,029   

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

       0.65        10/29/14         Open        792,000           792,079   

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

       1.20        10/30/14         1/05/15        8,219,000           8,219,000   
Barclays Capital, Inc.        1.55        10/31/14         1/05/15        22,414,160           22,414,160   

Total

                    $ 705,972,381         $ 707,293,903   
                   

 

 

      

 

 

 

1   Certain agreements have no stated maturity and can be terminated by either party at any time.

      

    

 

Ÿ  

Financial futures contracts outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Contracts
Purchased (Sold)
    Issue   Exchange   Expiration  

Notional Value

    Unrealized
Depreciation
 
          (275   10-Year U.S. Treasury Note   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD    34,748,828      $ (204,329
          (134   U.S. Treasury Long Bond   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD    18,906,562        (204,929
          (104   Ultra Long U.S. Treasury Bond   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD    16,308,500        (202,947
          (88   5-Year U.S. Treasury Note   Chicago Board of Trade   December 2014     USD    10,509,813        (82,488
  Total              $ (694,693
         

 

 

 

 

Ÿ  

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Currency
Purchased
       Currency
Sold
    Counterparty   Settlement
Date
       Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
BRL        395,840         USD        160,000      Bank of America N.A.     11/04/14         $ (252
BRL        396,800         USD        162,344      Bank of America N.A.     11/04/14           (2,208
USD        160,000         BRL        396,800      Bank of America N.A.     11/04/14           (136
USD        161,951         BRL        395,840      Bank of America N.A.     11/04/14           2,203   
USD        400,000         ZAR        4,461,600      Bank of America N.A.     11/17/14           (3,645
MXN        5,420,800         USD        400,000      Bank of America N.A.     11/18/14           2,199   
USD        400,000         COP        829,000,000      Bank of America N.A.     11/18/14           (2,268
BRL        389,520         USD        160,000      Bank of America N.A.     11/28/14           (3,958
USD        160,000         BRL        398,800      Bank of America N.A.     11/28/14           241   
USD        8,720,114         EUR        6,821,777      Bank of America N.A.     1/21/15           166,937   
USD        34,720,247         GBP        21,798,000      Bank of America N.A.     1/21/15           (128,140
Total                         $ 30,973   
                       

 

 

 

 

Ÿ  

Exchange-traded options purchased as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Description      Put/
Call
       Strike Price        Expiration
Date
       Contracts        Market
Value
 
Eurodollar 2-Year Mid-Curve Option        Put           USD    97.88           12/12/14           40         $ 3,750   

 

Ÿ  

Exchange-traded options written as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Description      Put/
Call
       Strike Price        Expiration
Date
       Contracts        Market
Value
 
Eurodollar 2-Year Mid-Curve Option        Put           USD    97.50           12/12/14           40         $ (250

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
48    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

 

Ÿ  

Centrally cleared credit default swaps — buy protection outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Index    Pay
Fixed Rate
     Clearinghouse      Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount (000)
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 
Dow Jones CDX North America High Yield Index, Series 22, Version 2      5.00      Chicago Mercantile         6/20/19         USD    21,335       $ (236,552

 

Ÿ  

Centrally cleared credit default swaps – sold protection outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Index    Receive
Fixed Rate
     Clearinghouse      Expiration
Date
     Credit
Rating1
     Notional
Amount
(000)2
     Unrealized
Appreciation
 
Dow Jones CDX North America High Yield Index, Series 22, Version 2      5.00      Chicago Mercantile         6/20/19         B+         USD    99       $ 232   

1   Using S&P’s rating of the issuer or the underlying securities of the index, as applicable.

      

     

2   The maximum potential amount the Trust may pay should a negative credit event take place as defined under the terms of the agreement.

      

  

 

Ÿ  

Centrally cleared interest rate swaps outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Fixed
Rate
  Floating
Rate
    Clearinghouse     Effective
Date
  Expiration
Date
    Notional Amount
(000)
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 
2.72%1     3-month LIBOR        Chicago Mercantile      N/A     9/19/24        USD    350      $ (8,023

1   Trust pays the fixed rate and receives the floating rate.

      

   

 

Ÿ  

OTC credit default swaps — buy protection outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Issuer   Pay
Fixed Rate
    Counterparty     Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
(000)
    Market
Value
    Premiums
Paid
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 
United Mexican States     1.00     Credit Suisse International        12/20/19        USD    672      $ (6,893   $ 2,897      $ (9,790

 

Ÿ  

OTC credit default swaps — sold protection outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Index   Receive
Fixed Rate
  Counterparty    Expiration
Date
     Credit
Rating1
     Notional
Amount
(000)2
    Market
Value
     Premiums
Received
     Unrealized
Appreciation
 
Dow Jones CDX North America Investment Grade, Series 9   5.00%   Bank of America N.A.      12/20/17         BBB+         USD    10,000      $ 724,678       $ (542,303    $ 1,266,981   

1    Using S&P’s rating of the issuer or the underlying securities of the index, as applicable.

       

  

2    The maximum potential amount the Trust may pay should a negative credit event take place as defined under the terms of the agreement.

       

  

 

Ÿ  

OTC interest rate swaps outstanding as of October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

Fixed Rate   Floating
Rate
  Counterparty    Effective
Date
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount (000)
    Market
Value
     Premiums
Received
     Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
11.15%3   1-Day BROIS   Deutsche Bank AG      N/A         1/04/16         BRL    12,096      $ (57,970    $ (164    $ (57,806
12.11%3   1-Day BROIS   Deutsche Bank AG      N/A         1/02/18         BRL      4,464        (22,329      (201      (22,128
6.28%3   1-month MXIBOR   Citibank N.A.      N/A         9/05/24         MXN      5,400        4,658         (71      4,729   

Total

               $ (75,641    $ (436    $ (75,205
              

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

3    Trust pays the floating rate and receives the fixed rate.

       

  

 

Ÿ  

Fair Value Measurements — Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments and derivative financial instruments. These inputs to valuation techniques are categorized into a disclosure hierarchy consisting of three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the fair value hierarchy classification is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The categorization of a value determined for investments and derivative financial instruments is based on the pricing transparency of the investment and derivative financial instrument and is not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

 

  Ÿ  

Level 1 — unadjusted quoted prices in active markets/exchanges for identical assets or liabilities that the Trust has the ability to access

 

  Ÿ  

Level 2 — other observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market-corroborated inputs)

 

  Ÿ  

Level 3 — unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Trust’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments and derivative financial instruments)

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    49


Schedule of Investments (continued)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

Changes in valuation techniques may result in transfers into or out of an assigned level within the disclosure hierarchy. In accordance with the Trust’s policy, transfers between different levels of the fair value disclosure hierarchy are deemed to have occurred as of the beginning of the reporting period. For information about the Trust’s policy regarding valuation of investments and derivative financial instruments, please refer to Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following tables summarize the Trust’s investments and derivative financial instruments categorized in the disclosure hierarchy as of October 31, 2014:

 

     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3        Total  

Assets:

                
Investments:                 

Long-Term Investments:

                

Asset-Backed Securities

            $ 204,436,230         $ 12,930,162         $ 217,366,392   

Corporate Bonds

              490,841,931           4,353,024           495,194,955   

Floating Rate Loan Interests

              44,625,694           26,369,600           70,995,294   

Foreign Agency Obligations

              11,331,937                     11,331,937   

Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

              386,041,114           24,087,773           410,128,887   

Preferred Securities

  $ 17,671,916           179,313,974                     196,985,890   

Short-Term Securities

    18,823,385                               18,823,385   

Options Purchased:

                

Interest rate contracts

    3,750                               3,750   
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

  $ 36,499,051         $ 1,316,590,880         $ 67,740,559         $ 1,420,830,490   
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 
                
     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3        Total  
Derivative Financial Instruments1                 

Assets:

                

Credit contracts

            $ 1,267,213                   $ 1,267,213   

Foreign currency exchange contracts

              171,580                     171,580   

Interest rate contracts

              4,729                     4,729   

Liabilities:

                

Credit contracts

              (246,342                  (246,342

Foreign currency exchange contracts

              (140,607                  (140,607

Interest rate contracts

  $ (694,943        (87,957                  (782,900
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

  $ (694,943      $ 968,616                   $ 273,673   
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

1    Derivative financial instruments are swaps, financial futures contracts, forward foreign currency exchange contracts and options written. Swaps, financial futures contracts and forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument and options written are shown at value.

        

The Trust may hold assets and/or liabilities in which the fair value approximates the carrying amount for financial statement purposes. As of October 31, 2014, such assets and/or liabilities are categorized within the disclosure hierarchy as follows:

 

     Level 1        Level 2        Level 3      Total  

Assets:

                

Cash

  $ 4,999                        $ 4,999   

Foreign currency at value

    1,835,632                          1,835,632   

Cash pledged for centrally cleared swaps

    1,025,000                          1,025,000   

Cash pledged as collateral for reverse repurchase agreements

    1,541,529                          1,541,529   

Cash pledged for financial futures contracts

    999,000                          999,000   

Liabilities:

                

Cash received as collateral for OTC derivatives

            $ (660,000             (660,000

Cash received as collateral for reverse repurchase agreements

              (873,000             (873,000

Reverse repurchase agreements

              (707,293,903             (707,293,903
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

    

 

 

 

Total

  $ 5,406,160         $ (708,826,903           $ (703,420,743
 

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

    

 

 

 

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the year ended October 31, 2014.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
50    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Schedule of Investments (concluded)

  

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented when the Trust had a significant amount of Level 3 investments at the beginning and/or end of the year in relation to net assets. The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for which significant unobservable inputs were used in determining fair value:

 

     Asset-Backed
Securities
    Corporate
Bonds
   

Floating

Rate Loan
Interests

   

Non-Agency

Mortgage-
Backed
Securities

    Unfunded Floating
Rate Loan
Interests
(Liabilities)
    Total  

Assets:

           

Opening Balance, as of

October 31, 2013

  $ 67,811,145             $ 18,805,204      $ 16,556,311      $ (1,224   $ 103,171,436   

Transfers into Level 3

                                         

Transfers out of Level 31

    (50,139,764            (1,181,504     (4,688,500            (56,009,768

Accrued discounts/premiums

    16,431               12,660        291,601               320,692   

Net realized gain (loss)

    1,230,081               27,219        112,501               1,369,801   

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation2,3

    44,479      $ 59,165        26,605        1,465,895        1,224        1,597,368   

Purchases

    10,843,793        4,293,859        26,977,266        11,560,943               53,675,861   

Sales

    (16,876,003            (18,297,850     (1,210,978            (36,384,831
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Closing Balance, as of October 31, 2014

  $ 12,930,162      $ 4,353,024      $ 26,369,600      $ 24,087,773             $ 67,740,559   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments still held at October 31, 20143

  $ (15,902   $ 59,165      $ 57,205      $ 1,465,895             $ 1,566,363   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

1  As of October 31, 2013, the Trust used significant unobservable inputs in determining the value of certain investments. As of October 31, 2014, the Trust used observable inputs in determining the value of the same investments. As a result, investments with a beginning of period value of $56,009,768 transferred from Level 3 to Level 2 in the disclosure hierarchy.

       

2  Included in the related net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation in the Statements of Operations.

     

3  Any difference between Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation and Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments still held at October 31, 2014 is generally due to investments no longer held or categorized as Level 3 at period end.

      

The Trust’s investments that are categorized as Level 3 were valued utilizing third party pricing information without adjustment. Such valuations are based on unobservable inputs. A significant change in third party information could result in a significantly lower or higher value of such Level 3 investments.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    51


Statements of Assets and Liabilities     

 

October 31, 2014   BlackRock
Credit Allocation
Income Trust
(BTZ)
    BlackRock
Floating Rate
Income  Trust
(BGT)1
    BlackRock Multi-
Sector
Income Trust
(BIT)
 
     
Assets                        

Investments at value — unaffiliated2

  $ 2,404,987,920      $ 493,715,998      $ 1,402,007,105   

Investments at value — affiliated3

    4,283,291        2,630,534        18,823,385   

Cash

           753,332        4,999   

Cash pledged for centrally cleared swaps

    5,150,000               1,025,000   

Cash pledged as collateral for OTC derivatives

    500,000                 

Cash pledged for financial futures contracts

    353,000               999,000   

Cash pledged as collateral for reverse repurchase agreements

                  1,541,529   

Foreign currency at value4

    99        6,914        1,835,632   

Interest receivable

    31,585,435        1,913,157        13,219,228   

Investments sold receivable

    14,491,173        8,147,687        5,762,660   

Reverse repurchase agreements receivable

                  47,978,493   

Unrealized appreciation on OTC derivatives

    1,124,986               1,271,710   

Swap premiums paid

    513,888               2,897   

Variation margin receivable on centrally cleared swaps

    376,026               5,443   

Variation margin receivable on financial futures contracts

    273,562               208,795   

Swaps receivable

    101,033               392,484   

Dividends receivable

    68,863               182,662   

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts

           224,861        171,580   

Principal paydowns receivable

                  218   

Prepaid expenses

    6,177        1,577        2,236   
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    2,463,815,453        507,394,060        1,495,435,056   
 

 

 

 
     
Liabilities                        

Reverse repurchase agreements

    759,751,939               707,293,903   

Bank borrowings payable

           145,000,000          

Investments purchased payable

    32,410,192        16,759,297        3,298,613   

Reverse repurchase agreements payable

    2,542,637               16,474,945   

Options written at value5

    2,444,259               250   

Unrealized depreciation on OTC derivatives

    1,517,593               89,724   

Investment advisory fees payable

    1,269,816        302,472        978,213   

Swap premiums received

    862,464               542,739   

Cash received as collateral for OTC derivatives

    740,000               660,000   

Officer’s and Trustees’ fees payable

    585,306        187,919        9,113   

Income dividends payable

    408,838        31,714        192,275   

Variation margin payable on financial futures contracts

    400,503                 

Swaps payable

    127,971               357,461   

Bank overdraft

    26,363                 

Interest expense payable

           204,962          

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts

           33,770        140,607   

Unrealized depreciation on unfunded floating rate loan interests

           25,380          

Cash received as collateral for reverse repurchase agreements

                  873,000   

Variation margin payable on centrally cleared swaps

                  78,574   

Other liabilities

                  832,628   

Other accrued expenses payable

    285,607        180,943        253,296   
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    803,373,488        162,726,457        732,075,341   
 

 

 

 

Net Assets

  $ 1,660,441,965      $ 344,667,603      $ 763,359,715   
 

 

 

 
     
Net Assets Consist of                        

Paid-in capital6,7,8

  $ 1,892,035,910      $ 429,064,959      $ 727,781,455   

Undistributed net investment income

    290,393        984,527        856,831   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (379,484,356     (77,799,341     11,078,282   

Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation

    147,600,018        (7,582,542     23,643,147   
 

 

 

 

Net Assets

  $ 1,660,441,965      $ 344,667,603      $ 763,359,715   
 

 

 

 

Net asset value

  $ 15.36      $ 14.57      $ 19.87   
 

 

 

 

1   Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

     

2   Investments at cost — unaffiliated

  $ 2,258,039,015      $ 501,395,066      $ 1,378,614,127   

3   Investments at cost — affiliated

  $ 4,283,291      $ 2,630,534      $ 18,823,385   

4   Foreign currency at cost

  $ 101      $ 6,936      $ 1,855,449   

5   Premiums received

  $ 7,454,970             $ 5,938   

6   Par value per share

  $ 0.001      $ 0.001      $ 0.001   

7   Shares outstanding

    108,088,170        23,663,232        38,421,624   

8   Shares authorized

    unlimited        unlimited        unlimited   

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
52    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Statements of Operations     

 

Year Ended October 31, 2014  

BlackRock

Credit Allocation
Income Trust
(BTZ)

    BlackRock
Floating Rate
Income  Trust
(BGT)1
    BlackRock
Multi-Sector
Income Trust
(BIT)
 
     
Investment Income                        

Interest

  $ 121,170,921      $ 25,098,938      $ 76,063,360   

Dividends — unaffiliated

    4,146,077        199,982        2,148,302   

Dividends — affiliated

    2,660        417        6,878   
 

 

 

 

Total income

    125,319,658        25,299,337        78,218,540   
 

 

 

 
     
Expenses                        

Investment advisory

    14,791,025        3,611,279        10,822,184   

Accounting services

    175,562        56,302        101,927   

Transfer agent

    161,026        41,003        69,492   

Officer and Trustees

    158,373        34,181        72,631   

Professional

    146,657        125,401        221,442   

Custodian

    137,394        175,329        137,952   

Printing

    44,407        18,580        23,328   

Registration

    37,625        9,181        11,097   

Miscellaneous

    167,457        56,202        57,416   
 

 

 

 

Total expenses excluding interest expense

    15,819,526        4,127,458        11,517,469   

Interest expense

    2,472,858        1,195,377        3,970,125   
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    18,292,384        5,322,835        15,487,594   

Less fees waived by Manager

    (5,184     (812     (14,158

Less fees paid indirectly

    (42     (130     (62
 

 

 

 

Total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly

    18,287,158        5,321,893        15,473,374   
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    107,032,500        19,977,444        62,745,166   
 

 

 

 
     
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)                        
Net realized gain (loss) from:      

Investments

    17,087,796        8,219,024        4,037,359   

Financial futures contracts

    (3,034,410            (3,487,491

Foreign currency transactions

    21,385        296,119        899,679   

Options written

    (320,674            198,413   

Swaps

    (10,668,059     (1,401,406     457,051   
 

 

 

 
    3,086,038        7,113,737        2,105,011   
 

 

 

 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on:      

Investments

    30,678,176        (12,371,318     25,291,763   

Financial futures contracts

    1,924,960               (32,016

Foreign currency translations

    (21,224     (491,846     (740,369

Options written

    3,958,519               5,688   

Swaps

    (1,506,531     457,695        (118,929

Unfunded floating rate loan interests

           (39,081     1,224   
 

 

 

 
    35,033,900        (12,444,550     24,407,361   
 

 

 

 

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    38,119,938        (5,330,813     26,512,372   
 

 

 

 

Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

  $ 145,152,438      $ 14,646,631      $ 89,257,538   
 

 

 

 

1   Consolidated Statement of Operations.

      

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    53


Statements of Changes in Net Assets     

 

    BlackRock Credit Allocation
Income Trust (BTZ)
 
    Year Ended October 31,  
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:   2014     2013  
   
Operations                

Net investment income

  $ 107,032,500      $ 99,114,534   

Net realized gain

    3,086,038        32,493,332   

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

    35,033,900        (71,895,937
 

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

    145,152,438        59,711,929   
 

 

 

 
   
Distributions to Shareholders From1                

Net investment income

    (104,413,172     (99,536,463
 

 

 

 
   
Capital Share Transactions                

Net proceeds from the issuance of shares due to reorganization

           862,691,514   
 

 

 

 
   
Net Assets                

Total increase in net assets

    40,739,266        822,866,980   

Beginning of year

    1,619,702,699        796,835,719   
 

 

 

 

End of year

  $ 1,660,441,965      $ 1,619,702,699   
 

 

 

 

Undistributed net investment income, end of year

  $ 290,393      $ 944,076   
 

 

 

 

 

    BlackRock Floating Rate
Income Trust (BGT)2
 
    Year Ended October 31,  
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:   2014     2013  
   
Operations                

Net investment income

  $ 19,977,444      $ 22,212,564   

Net realized gain

    7,113,737        5,355,527   

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

    (12,444,550     3,431,673   
 

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

    14,646,631        30,999,764   
 

 

 

 
   
Distributions to Shareholders From1                

Net investment income

    (19,919,709     (24,716,431
 

 

 

 
   
Capital Share Transactions                

Reinvestment of dividends

           374,931   
 

 

 

 
   
Net Assets                

Total increase (decrease) in net assets

    (5,273,078     6,658,264   

Beginning of year

    349,940,681        343,282,417   
 

 

 

 

End of year

  $    344,667,603      $    349,940,681   
 

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income, end of year

  $ 984,527      $ (1,724,564
 

 

 

 

1    Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations.

       

2    Consolidated Statements of Changes.

       

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
54    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Statements of Changes in Net Assets     

 

    BlackRock Multi-Sector
Income Trust (BIT)
 
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:   Year Ended
October 31,
2014
    Period
February 27, 20131
to October  31,
2013
 
   
Operations                

Net investment income

  $ 62,745,166      $ 38,588,756   

Net realized gain (loss)

    2,105,011        (10,846,530

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

    24,407,361        (764,214
 

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

    89,257,538        26,978,012   
 

 

 

 
   
Distributions to Shareholders From2                

Net investment income

    (53,805,642     (26,851,648

Return of capital

           (4,534,977
 

 

 

 

Decrease in net assets resulting from distributions to shareholders

    (53,805,642     (31,386,625
 

 

 

 
   
Capital Share Transactions                

Net proceeds from the issuance of shares

           686,096,414   

Net proceeds from the underwriter’s over allotment option exercised

           46,120,006   
 

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets derived from capital share transactions

           732,216,420   
 

 

 

 
   
Net Assets                

Total increase in net assets

    35,451,896        727,807,807   

Beginning of period

    727,907,819        100,012   
 

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 763,359,715      $ 727,907,819   
 

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income, end of period

  $ 856,831      $ (589,378
 

 

 

 

1    Commencement of operations.

       

2    Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations.

       

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    55


Statements of Cash Flows     

 

Year Ended October 31, 2014   BlackRock
Credit Allocation
Income Trust
(BTZ)
   

BlackRock

Floating Rate

Income Trust

(BGT)1

    BlackRock
Multi-Sector
Income Trust
(BIT)
 
     
Cash Provided by Operating Activities                        

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 145,152,438      $ 14,646,631      $ 89,257,538   

Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets resulting from operations to net cash provided by operating activities:

     

Decrease in interest receivable

    1,368,368        556,339        242,848   

(Increase) decrease in swap receivable

    229,972        26,006        (319,290

(Increase) decrease in cash pledged for centrally cleared swaps

    4,515,000        145,000        (525,000

(Increase) decrease in cash pledged as collateral for OTC derivatives

    (500,000     600,000          

(Increase) decrease in cash pledged as financial futures contracts

    1,310,940               (669,000

Decrease in cash pledged as collateral for reverse repurchase agreements

    1,333,000               1,491,221   

(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses

    20,550        8,098        (2,236

Increase in variation margin receivable on financial futures contracts

    (58,644            (191,451

(Increase) decrease in dividends receivable

    1,952               (80,787

Increase in variation margin receivable on centrally cleared swaps

    (376,026            (5,443

(Increase) decrease in swap premiums paid

    590,494               (2,897

Increase (decrease) in swaps payable

    (111,210            357,461   

Increase (decrease) in investment advisory fees payable

    20,644        (5,330     125,162   

Increase (decrease) in interest expense payable

    888,740        (6,737     107,427   

Increase in other liabilities

                  832,628   

Increase (decrease) in other accrued expenses payable

    (60,418     (86,723     11,111   

Increase in Officer’s and Trustees’ fees payable

    74,209        16,382        1,782   

Increase (decrease) in swap premiums received

    141,464        (1,020,061     (934,325

Increase in variation margin payable on financial futures contracts

    400,503                 

Increase in cash received as collateral for reverse repurchase agreements

                  873,000   

Increase in cash received as collateral for OTC derivatives

    40,000               60,000   

Increase (decrease) in variation margin payable on centrally cleared swaps

    (24,452     (1,943     75,066   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and options written

    (8,555,263     (7,813,904     815,454   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments, options written, swaps, foreign currency translations and unfunded floating rate
loan interests

    (34,344,187     12,519,912        (24,497,569

Amortization of premium and accretion of discount on investments

    5,215,247        (1,113,024     (13,539,319

Premiums received from options written

    9,444,187               205,679   

Proceeds from sales of long-term investments and principal paydowns

    732,826,768        322,539,904        377,684,232   

Purchases of long-term investments

    (695,497,112     (315,029,657     (491,722,566

Net proceeds from sales (purchases) of short-term securities

    (283,824     747,624        (8,155,093

Premiums paid on closing options written

    (9,043,829            (1,328
 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

    154,719,511        26,728,517        (68,505,695
 

 

 

 
     
Cash Used for Financing Activities                        

Proceeds from bank borrowings

           189,000,000          

Payments on bank borrowings

           (196,000,000       

Net borrowing of reverse repurchase agreements

    (50,622,478            123,643,052   

Cash dividends paid to shareholders

    (104,531,085     (19,920,832     (53,846,343

Increase (decrease) in bank overdraft

    26,363        (46,524       
 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

    (155,127,200     (26,967,356     69,796,709   
 

 

 

 
     
Cash Impact from Foreign Exchange Fluctuations                        

Cash impact from foreign exchange fluctuations

  $ (2   $ (538   $ (18,358
 

 

 

 
     
Cash and Foreign Currency                        

Net increase (decrease) in cash and foreign currency

    (407,691     (239,377     1,272,656   

Cash and foreign currency at beginning of year

    407,790        999,623        567,975   
 

 

 

 

Cash and foreign currency at end of year

  $ 99      $ 760,246      $ 1,840,631   
 

 

 

 
     
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information                        

Cash paid during the period for interest

  $ 1,584,118      $ 1,202,114      $ 3,862,698   
 

 

 

 

1    Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.

     

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
56    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Financial Highlights    BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (BTZ)

 

    Year Ended October 31,  
    2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
         
Per Share Operating Performance                                        

Net asset value, beginning of year

  $ 14.99      $ 15.37      $ 13.94      $ 14.46      $ 12.64   
 

 

 

 

Net investment income1

    0.99        0.97        0.94        0.88        0.85   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.35        (0.37     1.43        (0.54     2.14   

Distributions to Preferred Shareholders from net investment income

                         (0.01     (0.07
 

 

 

 

Net increase from investment operations

    1.34        0.60        2.37        0.33        2.92   
 

 

 

 
Distributions to Common Shareholders from:2          

Net investment income

    (0.97     (0.98     (0.94     (0.85     (0.81

Return of capital

                                (0.29
 

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.97     (0.98     (0.94     (0.85     (1.10
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of year

  $ 15.36      $ 14.99      $ 15.37      $ 13.94      $ 14.46   
 

 

 

 

Market price, end of year

  $ 13.54      $ 12.97      $ 14.23      $ 12.08      $ 13.02   
 

 

 

 
         
Total Return Applicable to Common Shareholders3                                        

Based on net asset value

    10.11%        4.86%        18.35%        3.28%        25.16%   
 

 

 

 

Based on market price

    12.18%        (2.01)%        26.44%        (0.60)%        29.98%   
 

 

 

 
         
Ratios to Average Net Assets Applicable to Common Shareholders                                        

Total expenses

    1.11%        1.15% 4      1.20% 5      1.09% 6      1.12% 6 
 

 

 

 

Total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly

    1.11%        1.15% 4      1.20% 5      1.09% 6      1.11% 6 
 

 

 

 

Total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly and excluding interest expense

    0.96%        1.00% 4      1.07% 5      0.99% 6      1.07% 6 
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    6.48%        6.43%        6.53%        6.25% 6      6.33% 6 
 

 

 

 

Distributions to Preferred Shareholders

                         0.09%        0.50%   
 

 

 

 

Net investment income to Common Shareholders

    6.48%        6.43%        6.53%        6.16%        5.83%   
 

 

 

 
         
Supplemental Data                                        

Net assets Applicable to Common Shareholders, end of year (000)

  $  1,660,442      $  1,619,703      $     796,836      $     722,337      $     749,360   
 

 

 

 

Preferred Shares outstanding at $25,000 liquidation preference, end of year (000)

                              $ 231,000   
 

 

 

 

Borrowings outstanding, end of year (000)

  $ 759,752      $ 812,028      $ 373,716      $ 339,303      $   
 

 

 

 

Average borrowings outstanding, during the year (000)

  $ 733,661      $ 724,537      $ 312,634      $ 182,843      $ 63,660   
 

 

 

 

Portfolio turnover rate

    29%        43%        37%        54%        64%   
 

 

 

 

Asset coverage per Preferred Share at $25,000 liquidation preference, end of year

                              $ 106,104   
 

 

 

 

Asset coverage, end of year per $1,000

  $ 3,186      $ 2,995      $ 3,132      $ 3,129          
 

 

 

 

 

  1   

Based on average shares outstanding.

 

  2   

Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations.

 

  3   

Total returns based on market price, which can be significantly greater or less than the net asset value, may result in substantially different returns. Where applicable, excludes the effects of any sales charges and assumes the reinvestment of distributions.

 

  4   

Includes reorganization costs associated with the Trust’s merger. Without these costs, total expenses, total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly, and total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly and excluding interest expense would have been 1.15%, 1.15% and 1.00%, respectively.

 

  5   

Includes reorganization costs associated with the Trust’s merger. Without these costs, total expenses, total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly, and total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly and excluding interest expense would have been 1.16%, 1.16% and 1.02%, respectively.

 

  6   

Do not reflect the effect of dividends to Preferred Shareholders.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    57


Financial Highlights    BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (BGT)

 

    Year Ended October 31,  
    20141     20131     20121     2011     2010  
         
Per Share Operating Performance                                        

Net asset value, beginning of year

  $ 14.79      $ 14.52      $ 13.97      $ 14.48      $ 13.29   
 

 

 

 

Net investment income2

    0.84        0.94        0.97        1.00        0.97   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.22     0.38        0.68        (0.42     1.09   

Distributions to Preferred Shareholders from net investment income

                         (0.00 )3      (0.04
 

 

 

 

Net increase from investment operations

    0.62        1.32        1.65        0.58        2.02   
 

 

 

 

Distributions from net investment income4

    (0.84     (1.05     (1.10     (1.09     (0.83
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of year

  $ 14.57      $ 14.79      $ 14.52      $ 13.97      $ 14.48   
 

 

 

 

Market price, end of year

  $ 13.18      $ 14.12      $ 15.07      $ 13.00      $ 14.52   
 

 

 

 
         
Total Return Applicable to Common Shareholders5                                        

Based on net asset value

    4.60%        9.37%        12.37%        4.03%        15.55%   
 

 

 

 

Based on market price

    (0.89)%        0.60%        25.33%        (3.46)%        22.41%   
 

 

 

 
         
Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable to Common Shareholders                                        

Total expenses

    1.52%        1.57%        1.66%        1.73% 6      1.43% 6 
 

 

 

 

Total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly

    1.52%        1.57%        1.61%        1.60% 6      1.25% 6 
 

 

 

 

Total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly and excluding interest expense

    1.18%        1.19%        1.25% 7      1.24% 6      1.15% 6 
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    5.71%        6.39%        6.87%        6.95% 6      7.01% 6 
 

 

 

 

Distributions to Preferred Shareholders

                         0.03%        0.27%   
 

 

 

 

Net investment income to Common Shareholders

    5.71%        6.39%        6.87%        6.92%        6.74%   
 

 

 

 
         
Supplemental Data                                        

Net assets applicable Common Shareholders, end of year (000)

  $  344,668      $  349,941      $  343,282      $  329,831      $  341,436   
 

 

 

 

Preferred Shares outstanding at $25,000 liquidation preference, end of year (000)

                              $ 58,800   
 

 

 

 

Borrowings outstanding, end of year (000)

  $ 145,000      $ 152,000      $ 145,000      $ 122,000      $ 38,000   
 

 

 

 

Average borrowings outstanding, during the year (000)

  $ 131,570      $ 138,337      $ 126,186      $ 120,334      $ 24,321   
 

 

 

 

Portfolio turnover rate

    64%        72%        65%        89%        87%   
 

 

 

 

Asset coverage per Preferred Share at $25,000 liquidation preference, end of year (000)

                              $ 170,174   
 

 

 

 

Asset coverage, end of year per $1,000

  $ 3,377      $ 3,302      $ 3,367      $ 3,704          
 

 

 

 

 

  1   

Consolidated Financial Highlights.

 

  2   

Based on average shares outstanding.

 

  3   

Amount is greater than $(0.005) per share.

 

  4   

Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations.

 

  5   

Total returns based on market price, which can be significantly greater or less than the net asset value, may result in substantially different returns. Where applicable, excludes the effects of any sales charges and assumes the reinvestment of distributions.

 

  6   

Do not reflect the effect of dividends to Preferred Shareholders.

 

  7   

For the year ended October 31, 2012, the total expense ratio after fees waived and paid indirectly and excluding interest expense and borrowing costs was 1.14%.

 

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
58    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Financial Highlights    BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (BIT)

 

    Year Ended
October 31,
2014
    Period
February 27, 20131
to October  31,
2013
 
   
Per Share Operating Performance                

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 18.95      $ 19.10 2 
 

 

 

 

Net investment income3

    1.62        1.02   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.70        (0.35
 

 

 

 

Net increase from investment operations

    2.32        0.67   
 

 

 

 
Distributions from:4    

Net investment income

    (1.40     (0.70

Return of capital

           (0.12
 

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.40     (0.82
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 19.87      $ 18.95   
 

 

 

 

Market price, end of period

  $ 17.79      $ 17.04   
 

 

 

 
   
Total Return5                

Based on net asset value

    13.40%        4.04% 6 
 

 

 

 

Based on market price

    12.91%        (10.66)% 6 
 

 

 

 
   
Ratios to Average Net Assets                

Total expenses

    2.04%        1.67% 7 
 

 

 

 

Total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly

    2.04%        1.67% 7 
 

 

 

 

Total expenses after fees waived and paid indirectly and excluding interest expense

    1.52%        1.33% 7 
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    8.27%        8.05% 7 
 

 

 

 
   
Supplemental Data                

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 763,360      $ 727,908   
 

 

 

 

Borrowings outstanding, end of period (000)

  $ 707,294      $ 552,040   
 

 

 

 

Average borrowings outstanding, during the period (000)

  $  593,978      $  397,402   
 

 

 

 

Portfolio turnover rate

    29%        77% 8 
 

 

 

 

Asset coverage, end of period per $1,000

  $ 2,079      $ 2,319   
 

 

 

 

 

  1   

Commencement of operations.

 

  2   

Net asset value, beginning of period, reflects a deduction of $0.90 per share sales charge from the initial offering price of $20.00 per share.

 

  3   

Based on average shares outstanding.

 

  4   

Distributions for annual periods determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations.

 

  5   

Total returns based on market price, which can be significantly greater or less than the net asset value, may result in substantially different returns. Where applicable, excludes the effects of any sales charges and assumes the reinvestment of distributions.

 

  6   

Aggregate total return.

 

  7   

Annualized.

 

  8   

Includes mortgage dollar roll transactions (“MDRs”). Excluding MDRs, the portfolio turnover rate would have been 54%.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.      
                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    59


Notes to Financial Statements     

 

1. Organization:

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (“BTZ”), BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (“BGT”) and BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (“BIT”) (collectively, the “Trusts” or individually as a “Trust”) are registered under the 1940 Act, as non-diversified, closed-end management investment companies. The Trusts are organized as Delaware statutory trusts. The Boards of Trustees of the Trusts are collectively referred to throughout this report as the “Board of Trustees” or the “Board,” and the trustees thereof are collectively referred to throughout this report as “Trustees”. The Trusts determine and make available for publication the NAVs of their Common Shares on a daily basis.

Reorganization: The Board and shareholders of BTZ and the respective Boards of Directors and Boards of Trustees and shareholders of each of BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust I, Inc. (“PSW”), BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust II, Inc. (“PSY”) and BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust III (“BPP”) (individually, a “Target Fund” and collectively the “Target Funds”) approved the reorganizations of each Target Fund into BTZ pursuant to which BTZ acquired substantially all of the assets and substantially all of the liabilities of each Target Fund in exchange for an equal aggregate value of newly-issued shares of BTZ in a merger transaction.

Each shareholder of a Target Fund received Common Shares of BTZ in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of such shareholder’s Target Fund shares, as determined at the close of business on December 7, 2012, less the costs of the Target Fund’s reorganization. Cash was distributed for any fractional shares.

The reorganizations were accomplished by a tax-free exchange of shares of BTZ in the following amounts and at the following conversion ratios:

 

Target Fund  

Shares Prior to

Reorganization

    

Conversion

Ratio

    

Shares of

BTZ

 

PSW

    10,311,941         0.74476327         7,679,944   

PSY

    40,807,418         0.80162384         32,712,181   

BPP

    18,467,785         0.85922134         15,867,889   

Each Target Fund’s net assets and composition of net assets on December 7, 2012, the valuation date of the reorganization were as follows:

 

     Target Funds  
     PSW      PSY      BPP  

Net assets

  $ 117,764,870       $ 501,609,101       $ 243,318,554   

Paid-in capital

  $ 220,759,069       $ 855,557,957       $ 421,683,737   

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income

  $ (271,460    $ (379,634    $ (20,963

Accumulated net realized loss

  $ (117,819,600    $ (415,840,977    $ (201,649,795

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  $ 15,096,861       $ 62,271,755       $ 23,305,575   

For financial reporting purposes, assets received and shares issued by BTZ were recorded at fair value. However, the cost basis of the investments received from the Target Funds were carried forward to align ongoing reporting of BTZ realized and unrealized gains and losses with amounts distributable to shareholders for tax purposes.

The net assets of the BTZ before the acquisition were $794,732,940. The aggregate net assets of BTZ immediately after the acquisition amounted to $1,657,424,622. Each Target Fund’s fair value and cost of investments prior to the reorganization were as follows:

 

Target Fund  

Fair Value of

Investments

    

Cost of

Investments

 

PSW

  $ 173,824,678       $ 158,779,261   

PSY

  $ 728,147,930       $ 666,028,086   

BPP

  $ 354,504,965       $ 331,424,010   

The purpose of these transactions was to combine four funds managed by the Manager with the same or substantially similar (but not identical) investment objectives, investment policies, strategies, risks and restrictions. Each reorganization was a tax-free event and was effective on December 10, 2012.

Assuming the acquisition had been completed on November 1, 2012, the beginning of the fiscal reporting period of BTZ, the pro forma results of operations for the year ended October 31, 2013, are as follows:

 

Ÿ  

Net investment income: $104,977,862

 

Ÿ  

Net realized and change in unrealized gain/loss on investments: $(41,452,879)

 

Ÿ  

Net increase/decrease in net assets resulting from operations: $63,524,983

Because the combined investment portfolios have been managed as a single integrated portfolio since the acquisition was completed, it is not practicable to separate the amounts of revenue and earnings of the Target Funds that have been included in the BTZ Statement of Operations since December 10, 2012.

Reorganization costs incurred in connection with the reorganization were expensed by BTZ.

 

                
60    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

Basis of Consolidation: The accompanying consolidated financial statements of BGT include the accounts of BGT Subsidiary, LLC (the “Taxable Subsidiary”), which is a wholly owned taxable subsidiary of BGT. The Taxable Subsidiary enables BGT to hold an investment in an operating company and satisfy regulated investment company tax requirements. Income earned and gains realized on the investment held by the Taxable Subsidiary are taxable to such subsidiary. A tax provision for income, if any, is shown as income tax in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for BGT. A tax provision for realized and unrealized gains, if any, is included as a reduction of realized and/or unrealized gain (loss) in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for BGT. BGT may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the Taxable Subsidiary. The net assets of the Taxable Subsidiary at October 31, 2014 were 0.06% of BGT’s consolidated net assets. Intercompany accounts and transactions, if any, have been eliminated. The Taxable Subsidiary is subject to the same investment policies and restrictions that apply to BGT.

2. Significant Accounting Policies:

The Trusts’ financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”), which may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Trust is considered an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Trusts:

Valuation: The Trusts’ investments are valued at fair value as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m., Eastern time). U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price the Trusts would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Trusts determine the fair values of their financial instruments at market value using independent dealers or pricing services under policies approved by the Board. The BlackRock Global Valuation Methodologies Committee (the “Global Valuation Committee”) is the committee formed by management to develop global pricing policies and procedures and to provide oversight of the pricing function for the Trusts for all financial instruments.

Bond investments are valued on the basis of last available bid prices or current market quotations provided by dealers or pricing services. Floating rate loan interests are valued at the mean of the bid prices from one or more brokers or dealers as obtained from a pricing service. In determining the value of a particular investment, pricing services may use certain information with respect to transactions in such investments, quotations from dealers, pricing matrixes, market transactions in comparable investments, various relationships observed in the market between investments and calculated yield measures. Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities are valued by independent pricing services using models that consider estimated cash flows of each tranche of the security, establish a benchmark yield and develop an estimated tranche-specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. Financial futures contracts traded on exchanges are valued at their last sale price. Swap agreements are valued utilizing quotes received daily by the Trusts’ pricing service or through brokers, which are derived using daily swap curves and models that incorporate a number of market data factors, such as discounted cash flows, trades and values of the underlying reference instruments. Certain centrally cleared swaps are valued at the price determined by the relevant exchange or clearinghouse. Investments in open-end registered investment companies are valued at NAV each business day. Short-term securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.

Municipal investments (including commitments to purchase such investments on a “when-issued” basis) are valued on the basis of prices provided by dealers or pricing services. In determining the value of a particular investment, pricing services may use certain information with respect to transactions in such investments, quotations from dealers, pricing matrixes, market transactions in comparable investments and information with respect to various relationships between investments.

Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange are valued at the official close each day, if available. For equity investments traded on more than one exchange, the official close price on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded is used. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day may be valued at the last available bid price.

Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates determined as of the close of business on the NYSE. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices and are determined as of the close of business on the NYSE. Interpolated values are derived when the settlement date of the contract is an interim date for which quotations are not available.

Exchange-traded options are valued at the mean between the last bid and ask prices at the close of the options market in which the options trade. An exchange-traded option for which there is no mean price is valued at the last bid (long positions) or ask (short positions) price. If no bid or ask price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that the prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of the option. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) options and options on swaps (“swaptions”) are valued by an independent pricing service using a mathematical model, which incorporates a number of market data factors, such as the trades and prices of the underlying instruments.

In the event that the application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment that is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, or if a price is not available, the investment will be valued by the Global Valuation Committee, or its delegate, in accordance with

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    61


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

a policy approved by the Board as reflecting fair value (“Fair Value Investments”). When determining the price for Fair Value Investments, the Global Valuation Committee, or its delegate, seeks to determine the price that each Trust might reasonably expect to receive or pay from the current sale or purchase of that asset or liability in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the Global Valuation Committee, or its delegate, deems relevant consistent with the principles of fair value measurement, which include the market approach, income approach and/or in the case of recent investments, the cost approach, as appropriate. The market approach generally consists of using comparable market transactions. The income approach generally is used to discount future cash flows to present value and is adjusted for liquidity as appropriate. These factors include but are not limited to: (i) attributes specific to the investment or asset; (ii) the principal market for the investment or asset; (iii) the customary participants in the principal market for the investment or asset; (iv) data assumptions by market participants for the investment or asset, if reasonably available; (v) quoted prices for similar investments or assets in active markets; and (vi) other factors, such as future cash flows, interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks, recovery rates, liquidation amounts and/or default rates. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuations of such investments, the fair values may differ from the values that would have been used had an active market existed. The Global Valuation Committee, or its delegate, employs various methods for calibrating valuation approaches for investments where an active market does not exist, including regular due diligence of the Trusts’ pricing vendors, regular reviews of key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing or disposition analysis to compare unrealized gains and losses to realized gains and losses, reviews of missing or stale prices and large movements in market values and reviews of any market related activity. The pricing of all Fair Value Investments is subsequently reported to the Board or a committee thereof on a quarterly basis.

Generally, trading in foreign instruments is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of business on the NYSE. Occasionally, events affecting the values of such instruments may occur between the foreign market close and the close of business on the NYSE that may not be reflected in the computation of the Trusts’ net assets. If events (e.g., a company announcement, market volatility or a natural disaster) occur during such periods that are expected to materially affect the value of such instruments, those instruments may be Fair Value Investments and be valued at their fair value, as determined in good faith by the Global Valuation Committee, or its delegate, using a pricing service and/or policies approved by the Board.

Foreign Currency: The Trusts’ books and records are maintained in U.S. dollars. Purchases and sales of investment securities are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective date of such transactions. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the Trusts’ investments denominated in that currency will lose value because that currency is worth fewer U.S. dollars; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value.

The Trusts do not isolate the portion of the results of operations arising as a result of changes in the foreign exchange rates from the changes in the market prices of investments held or sold for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the Statements of Operations from the effects of changes in market prices of those investments but are included as a component of net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments. The Trusts report realized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency related transactions as components of net realized gain (loss) for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are generally treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

Segregation and Collateralization: In cases where a Trust enters into certain investments (e.g., financial futures contracts, forward foreign currency exchange contracts, swaps and options written) or certain borrowings (e.g., reverse repurchase transactions) that would be “senior securities” for 1940 Act purposes, the Trust may segregate or designate on its books and records cash or liquid securities having a market value at least equal to the amount of the Trust’s future obligations under such investments or borrowings. Doing so allows the investment or borrowing to be excluded from treatment as a “senior security.” Furthermore, if required by an exchange or counterparty agreement, the Trust may be required to deliver/deposit cash and/or securities to/with an exchange, or broker-dealer or custodian as collateral for certain investments or obligations.

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: For financial reporting purposes, investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered into (the trade dates). Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined on the identified cost basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Trusts are informed of the ex-dividend date. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax at various rates may be imposed on capital gains, dividends and interest. Upon notification from issuers, some of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain. Interest income, including amortization and accretion of premiums and discounts on debt securities, is recognized on the accrual basis.

Distributions: Distributions from net investment income are declared and paid monthly. Distributions of capital gains are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Portions of return of capital distributions under U.S. GAAP may be taxed at ordinary income rates. The character of distributions is determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. The portion of distributions that exceeds a Trust’s current and accumulated earnings and profits, which are measured on a tax basis, will constitute a non-taxable return of capital. Realized net capital gains can be offset by capital losses carried forward from prior years. However, certain Trusts have capital loss carryforwards from pre-2012 tax years that offset realized net capital gains but do not offset current and accumulated earnings and profits. Consequently, if distributions in any tax year are less than the Trust’s current earnings and profits but greater than net investment income and net realized capital gains (taxable income), distributions in excess of taxable income are not treated as non-taxable return of capital, but rather may be taxable to shareholders at ordinary income rates. Under certain circumstances, taxable excess distributions could be significant. See Note 7, Income Tax Information, for the tax character of each Trust’s distributions paid during the year.

 

                
62    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

Deferred Compensation Plan: Under the Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Plan”) approved by each Trust’s Board, the independent Trustees (“Independent Trustees”) may defer a portion of their annual complex-wide compensation. Deferred amounts earn an approximate return as though equivalent dollar amounts had been invested in common shares of certain other BlackRock Closed-End Funds selected by the Independent Trustees. This has the same economic effect for the Independent Trustees as if the Independent Trustees had invested the deferred amounts directly in certain other BlackRock Closed-End Funds.

The Plan is not funded and obligations thereunder represent general unsecured claims against the general assets of each Trust. Deferred compensation liabilities are included in officer’s and trustees’ fees payable in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities and will remain as a liability of the Trusts until such amounts are distributed in accordance with the Plan.

Recent Accounting Standard: In June 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued guidance to improve the financial reporting of reverse repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. The guidance will require expanded disclosure for entities that enter into reverse repurchase agreements and similar transactions accounted for as secured borrowings. It is effective for financial statements with fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is evaluating the impact, if any, of this guidance on the Trusts’ financial statement disclosures.

Other: Expenses directly related to a Trust are charged to that Trust. Other operating expenses shared by several funds are prorated among those funds on the basis of relative net assets or other appropriate methods.

The Trusts have an arrangement with the custodian whereby fees may be reduced by credits earned on uninvested cash balances, which, if applicable, are shown as fees paid indirectly in the Statements of Operations. The custodian imposes fees on overdrawn cash balances, which can be offset by accumulated credits earned or may result in additional custody charges.

3. Securities and Other Investments:

Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities: The Trusts may invest in asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities are generally issued as pass-through certificates, which represent undivided fractional ownership interests in an underlying pool of assets, or as debt instruments, which are also known as collateralized obligations, and are generally issued as the debt of a special purpose entity organized solely for the purpose of owning such assets and issuing such debt. Asset-backed securities are often backed by a pool of assets representing the obligations of a number of different parties. The yield characteristics of certain asset-backed securities may differ from traditional debt securities. One such major difference is that all or a principal part of the obligations may be prepaid at any time because the underlying assets (i.e., loans) may be prepaid at any time. As a result, a decrease in interest rates in the market may result in increases in the level of prepayments as borrowers, particularly mortgagors, refinance and repay their loans. An increased prepayment rate with respect to an asset-backed security subject to such a prepayment feature will have the effect of shortening the maturity of the security. In addition, the Trusts may subsequently have to reinvest the proceeds at lower interest rates. If the Trusts have purchased such an asset-backed security at a premium, a faster than anticipated prepayment rate could result in a loss of principal to the extent of the premium paid.

The Trusts may purchase certain mortgage pass-through securities. There are a number of important differences among the agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. government that issue mortgage-related securities and among the securities that they issue. For example, mortgage-related securities guaranteed by Ginnie Mae are guaranteed as to the timely payment of principal and interest by Ginnie Mae and such guarantee is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. However, mortgage-related securities issued by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, including Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae guaranteed mortgage pass-through certificates, which are solely the obligations of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, are not backed by or entitled to the full faith and credit of the United States, but are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury.

Collateralized Debt Obligations: The Trusts may invest in collateralized debt obligations (“CDOs”), which include collateralized bond obligations (“CBOs”) and collateralized loan obligations (“CLOs”). CBOs and CLOs are types of asset-backed securities. A CDO is an entity that is backed by a diversified pool of debt securities (CBOs) or syndicated bank loans (CLOs). The cash flows of the CDO can be split into multiple segments, called “tranches,” which will vary in risk profile and yield. The riskiest segment is the subordinated or “equity” tranche. This tranche bears the greatest risk of defaults from the underlying assets in the CDO and serves to protect the other, more senior, tranches from default in all but the most severe circumstances. Since it is shielded from defaults by the more junior tranches, a “senior” tranche will typically have higher credit ratings and lower yields than their underlying securities, and often receive investment grade ratings from one or more of the nationally recognized rating agencies. Despite the protection from the more junior tranches, senior tranches can experience substantial losses due to actual defaults, increased sensitivity to future defaults and the disappearance of one or more protecting tranches as a result of changes in the credit profile of the underlying pool of assets.

Multiple Class Pass-Through Securities: The Trusts may invest in multiple class pass-through securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”) and commercial mortgage-backed securities. These multiple class securities may be issued by Ginnie Mae, U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities or by trusts formed by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans. In general, CMOs are debt obligations of a legal entity that are collateralized by, and multiple class pass-through securities represent direct ownership interests in, a pool of residential or commercial mortgage loans or mortgage pass-through securities (the “Mortgage Assets”), the payments on which are used to make payments on the CMOs or multiple pass-through securities. Classes of CMOs include interest only (“IOs”), principal only (“POs”), planned amortization classes and targeted amortization classes. IOs and

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    63


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

POs are stripped mortgage-backed securities representing interests in a pool of mortgages, the cash flow from which has been separated into interest and principal components. IOs receive the interest portion of the cash flow while POs receive the principal portion. IOs and POs can be extremely volatile in response to changes in interest rates. As interest rates rise and fall, the value of IOs tends to move in the same direction as interest rates. POs perform best when prepayments on the underlying mortgages rise since this increases the rate at which the principal is returned and the yield to maturity on the PO. When payments on mortgages underlying a PO are slower than anticipated, the life of the PO is lengthened and the yield to maturity is reduced. If the underlying Mortgage Assets experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, the Trusts may not fully recoup its initial investment in IOs.

Zero-Coupon Bonds: The Trusts may invest in zero-coupon bonds, which are normally issued at a significant discount from face value and do not provide for periodic interest payments. Zero-coupon bonds may experience greater volatility in market value than similar maturity debt obligations which provide for regular interest payments.

Capital Trusts and Trust Preferred Securities: The Trusts may invest in capital trusts and/or trust preferred securities. These securities are typically issued by corporations, generally in the form of interest-bearing notes with preferred securities characteristics, or by an affiliated business trust of a corporation, generally in the form of beneficial interests in subordinated debentures or similarly structured securities. The securities can be structured as either fixed or adjustable coupon securities that can have either a perpetual or stated maturity date. For trust preferred securities, the issuing bank or corporation will pay interest to the trust, which will then be distributed to holders of the trust preferred securities as a dividend. Dividends can be deferred without creating an event of default or acceleration, although maturity cannot take place unless all cumulative payment obligations have been met. The deferral of payments does not affect the purchase or sale of these securities in the open market. Payments on these securities are treated as interest rather than dividends for federal income tax purposes. These securities generally are rated below that of the issuing company’s senior debt securities and are freely callable at the issuer’s option.

Preferred Stock: The Trusts may invest in preferred stock. Preferred stock has a preference over common stock in liquidation (and generally in receiving dividends as well) but is subordinated to the liabilities of the issuer in all respects. As a general rule, the market value of preferred stock with a fixed dividend rate and no conversion element varies inversely with interest rates and perceived credit risk, while the market price of convertible preferred stock generally also reflects some element of conversion value. Because preferred stock is junior to debt securities and other obligations of the issuer, deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer will cause greater changes in the value of a preferred stock than in a more senior debt security with similar stated yield characteristics. Unlike interest payments on debt securities, preferred stock dividends are payable only if declared by the issuer’s board of directors. Preferred stock also may be subject to optional or mandatory redemption provisions.

Floating Rate Loan Interests: The Trusts may invest in floating rate loan interests. The floating rate loan interests held by the Trusts are typically issued to companies (the “borrower”) by banks, other financial institutions, and privately and publicly offered corporations (the “lender”). Floating rate loan interests are generally non-investment grade, often involve borrowers whose financial condition is troubled or uncertain and companies that are highly leveraged. The Trusts may invest in obligations of borrowers who are in bankruptcy proceedings. Floating rate loan interests may include fully funded term loans or revolving lines of credit. Floating rate loan interests are typically senior in the corporate capital structure of the borrower. Floating rate loan interests generally pay interest at rates that are periodically determined by reference to a base lending rate plus a premium. The base lending rates are generally the lending rate offered by one or more European banks, such as the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), the prime rate offered by one or more U.S. banks or the certificate of deposit rate. Floating rate loan interests may involve foreign borrowers, and investments may be denominated in foreign currencies. The Trusts consider these investments to be investments in debt securities for purposes of their investment policies.

When the Trusts purchase a floating rate loan interest, they may receive a facility fee and when it sells a floating rate loan interest, they may pay a facility fee. On an ongoing basis, the Trusts may receive a commitment fee based on the undrawn portion of the underlying line of credit amount of a floating rate loan interest. Facility and commitment fees are typically amortized to income over the term of the loan or term of the commitment, respectively. Consent and amendment fees are recorded to income as earned. Prepayment penalty fees, which may be received by the Trusts upon the prepayment of a floating rate loan interest by a borrower, are recorded as realized gains. The Trusts may invest in multiple series or tranches of a loan. A different series or tranche may have varying terms and carry different associated risks.

Floating rate loan interests are usually freely callable at the borrower’s option. The Trusts may invest in such loans in the form of participations in loans (“Participations”) or assignments (“Assignments”) of all or a portion of loans from third parties. Participations typically will result in the Trusts having a contractual relationship only with the lender, not with the borrower. The Trusts will have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to which it is entitled only from the lender selling the Participation and only upon receipt by the lender of the payments from the borrower. In connection with purchasing Participations, the Trusts generally will have no right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement, nor any rights of offset against the borrower, and the Trusts may not benefit directly from any collateral supporting the loan in which it has purchased the Participation. As a result, the Trusts will assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the lender that is selling the Participation. The Trusts’ investment in loan participation interests involves the risk of insolvency of the financial intermediaries who are parties to the transactions. In the event of the insolvency of the lender selling the Participation, the Trusts may be treated as a general creditor of the lender and may not benefit from any offset between the lender and the borrower. Assignments typically result in the Trusts having a direct contractual relationship with the borrower, and the Trusts may enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement.

 

                
64    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

In connection with floating rate loan interests, the Trusts may also enter into unfunded floating rate loan interests (“commitments”). In connection with these commitments, the Trusts earn a commitment fee, typically set as a percentage of the commitment amount. Such fee income, which is included in interest income in the Statements of Operations, is recognized ratably over the commitment period. Unfunded floating rate loan interests are marked-to-market daily, and any unrealized appreciation or depreciation is included in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities and Statements of Operations. As of October 31, 2014, the Trusts had the following unfunded floating rate loan interests:

 

 

BGT                               
Borrower   Par      Commitment
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Depreciation
 

Advantage Sales & Marketing, Inc. Delayed Draw Term Loan

    20,242       $ 20,127       $ 20,050       $ (77

Onex York Acquisition Corp. Delayed Draw Term Loan

    126,234       $ 126,234       $ 125,367       $ (867

Ziggo BV Term Loan B2A

    50,818       $ 50,639       $ 49,452       $ (1,187

Ziggo BV Term Loan B3

    1,040,075       $ 1,035,378       $ 1,012,129       $ (23,249

Forward Commitments and When-Issued Delayed Delivery Securities: The Trusts may purchase securities on a when-issued basis and may purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Trusts may purchase securities under such conditions with the intention of actually acquiring them, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Trusts may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Trusts are not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement. When purchasing a security on a delayed delivery basis, the Trusts assume the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. In the event of default by the counterparty, the Trusts’ maximum amount of loss is the unrealized appreciation of unsettled when-issued transactions, which is shown in the Schedules of Investments.

TBA Commitments: The Trusts may enter into TBA commitments. TBA commitments are forward agreements for the purchase or sale of mortgage-backed securities for a fixed price, with payment and delivery on an agreed upon future settlement date. The specific securities to be delivered are not identified at the trade date. However, delivered securities must meet specified terms, including issuer, rate and mortgage terms. When entering into TBA commitments, the Trusts may take possession of or deliver the underlying mortgage-backed securities but can extend the settlement or roll the transaction. TBA commitments involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased or sold declines or increases, respectively, prior to settlement date.

In order to better define contractual rights and to secure rights that will help the Trusts mitigate their counterparty risk, TBA commitments may be entered into by the Trusts under Master Securities Forward Transaction Agreements (each, an “MSFTA”). An MSFTA typically contains, among other things, collateral posting terms and netting provisions in the event of default and/or termination event. The collateral requirements are typically calculated by netting the mark to market amount for each transaction under such agreement and comparing that amount to the value of the collateral currently pledged by a Trust and the counterparty. Cash collateral that has been pledged to cover the obligations of a Trust and cash collateral received from the counterparty, if any, is reported separately on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as cash pledged as collateral for TBA commitments or cash received as collateral for TBA commitments, respectively. Non-cash collateral pledged by a Trust, if any, is noted in the Schedules of Investments. Typically, the Trusts are permitted to sell, repledge or use the collateral they receive; however, the counterparty is not. To the extent amounts due to the Trust are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Trust bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

Mortgage Dollar Roll Transactions: The Trusts may sell TBA mortgage-backed securities and simultaneously contract to repurchase substantially similar (i.e., same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specific future date at an agreed upon price. During the period between the sale and repurchase, the Trust will not be entitled to receive interest and principal payments on the securities sold. The Trusts accounts for mortgage dollar roll transactions as purchases and sales and realizes gains and losses on these transactions. These transactions may increase the Trusts’ portfolio turnover rate. Mortgage dollar rolls involve the risk that the market value of the securities that the Trust is required to purchase may decline below the agreed upon repurchase price of those securities.

Reverse Repurchase Agreements: The Trusts may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with qualified third party broker-dealers. In a reverse repurchase agreement, the Trusts sell securities to a bank or broker-dealer and agrees to repurchase the same securities at a mutually agreed upon date and price. During the term of the reverse repurchase agreement, the Trusts continue to receive the principal and interest payments on the securities sold. Certain agreements have no stated maturity and can be terminated by either party at any time. Interest on the value of the reverse repurchase agreements issued and outstanding is based upon competitive market rates determined at the time of issuance. The Trusts may utilize reverse repurchase agreements when it is anticipated that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the proceeds of the transaction is greater than the interest expense of the transaction. Reverse repurchase agreements involve leverage risk and also the risk that the market value of the securities to be repurchased may decline below the repurchase price.

For financial reporting purposes, cash received in exchange for securities delivered plus accrued interest due to the counterparty is recorded as a liability in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities at face value including accrued interest. Due to the short term nature of the reverse repurchase agreements, face

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    65


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

value approximates fair value. Interest payments made by the Trusts to the counterparties are recorded as a component of interest expense in the Statements of Operations. In periods of increased demand for the security, the Trusts may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Trusts.

Reverse repurchase transactions are entered into by the Trusts under Master Repurchase Agreements (each, an “MRA”), which permit the Trusts, under certain circumstances, including an event of default (such as bankruptcy or insolvency), to offset payables and/or receivables under the MRA with collateral held and/or posted to the counterparty and create one single net payment due to or from the Trusts. With reverse repurchase transactions, typically the Trusts and the counterparties are permitted to sell, re-pledge, or use the collateral associated with the transaction. Bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may impose restrictions on or prohibitions against such a right of offset in the event of the MRA counterparty’s bankruptcy or insolvency. Pursuant to the terms of the MRA, the Trusts receive or post securities as collateral with a market value in excess of the repurchase price to be paid or received by the Trusts upon the maturity of the transaction. Upon a bankruptcy or insolvency of the MRA counterparty, the Trusts are considered an unsecured creditor with respect to excess collateral and, as such, the return of excess collateral may be delayed.

The following table is a summary of the Trusts’ open reverse repurchase agreements by counterparty which are subject to offset under an MRA on a net basis as of October 31, 2014:

 

BTZ                                    
Counterparty        Reverse Repurchase
Agreements
    

Fair Value of Non-cash

Collateral Pledged
Including Accrued
Interest1

     Cash Collateral
Pledged
     Net Amount  

Barclays Capital, Inc.

    $ 86,576,487       $ (86,576,487                

BNP Paribas S.A.

      147,681,816         (147,681,816                

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

      271,313,931         (271,313,931                

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

      28,971,379         (28,971,379                

HSBC Securities (USA), Inc.

      11,969,499         (11,969,499                

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc.

      10,071,392         (10,071,392                

RBC Capital Markets LLC

      76,381,524         (76,381,524                

UBS AG London

      126,785,911         (126,785,911                
   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 759,751,939       $ (759,751,939                
   

 

 

 

 

  1  

Net collateral with a value of $805,840,914 has been pledged in connection with open reverse repurchase agreements. Excess of net collateral pledged to the individual counterparty is not shown for financial reporting purposes.

 

BIT                                    
Counterparty        Reverse Repurchase
Agreements
    

Fair Value of Non-cash

Collateral Pledged
Including  Accrued
Interest2

     Cash Collateral
Pledged
     Net Amount  

Barclays Bank PLC

    $ 23,255,099       $ (23,255,099                

Barclays Capital, Inc.

      230,991,608         (230,991,608                

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

      83,776,708         (83,776,708                

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

      4,857,170         (4,857,170                

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc.

      279,209,625         (279,209,625                

JPMorgan Securities LLC

      7,692,505         (7,692,505      

RBC Capital Markets

      2,595,606         (2,595,606                

UBS Securities LLC

      74,915,582         (74,915,582                
   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 707,293,903       $ (707,293,903                
   

 

 

 

 

  2  

Net collateral with a value of $765,290,016 has been pledged in connection with open reverse repurchase agreements. Excess of net collateral pledged to the individual counterparty is not shown for financial reporting purposes.

In the event the counterparty of securities under an MRA files for bankruptcy or becomes insolvent, the Trusts’ use of the proceeds from the agreement may be restricted while the counterparty, or its trustee or receiver, determines whether or not to enforce the Trusts’ obligation to repurchase the securities.

4. Derivative Financial Instruments:

The Trusts engage in various portfolio investment strategies using derivative contracts both to increase the returns of the Trusts and/or to economically hedge their exposure to certain risks such as credit risk, equity risk, interest rate risk and foreign currency exchange rate risk. These contracts may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Financial Futures Contracts: The Trusts purchase and/or sell financial futures contracts and options on financial futures contracts to gain exposure to, or economically hedge against, changes in interest rates (interest rate risk) or changes in the value of equity securities (equity risk). Financial futures contracts are agreements between the Trusts and a counterparty to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying instrument at a specified price and at a specified date. Depending on the terms of the particular contract, financial futures contracts are settled either through physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash settlement amount on the settlement date.

 

                
66    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

Upon entering into a financial futures contract, the Trusts are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on a contract’s size and risk profile. The initial margin deposit must then be maintained at an established level over the life of the contract. Securities deposited as initial margin are designated on the Schedules of Investments and cash deposited, if any, is recorded on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as cash pledged for financial futures contracts. Pursuant to the contract, the Trusts agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in value of the contract. Such receipts or payments are known as variation margin. Variation margin is recorded by the Trusts as unrealized appreciation or depreciation and, if applicable, as a receivable or payable for variation margin in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

When the contract is closed, the Trusts record a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. The use of financial futures contracts involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of financial futures contracts, interest or foreign currency exchange rates and the underlying assets.

Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts: The Trusts enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts as an economic hedge against either specific transactions or portfolio instruments or to obtain exposure to, or hedge exposure away from, foreign currencies (foreign currency exchange rate risk). A forward foreign currency exchange contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell a currency at a set exchange rate on a future date. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts, when used by the Trusts, help to manage the overall exposure to the currencies in which some of the investments held by the Trusts are denominated. The contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded by the Trusts as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, the Trusts record a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. The use of forward foreign currency exchange contracts involves the risk that the value of a forward foreign currency exchange contract changes unfavorably due to movements in the value of the referenced foreign currencies.

Options: The Trusts purchase and write call and put options to increase or decrease their exposure to underlying instruments including interest rate risk and/or, in the case of options written, to generate gains from options premiums. A call option gives the purchaser (holder) of the option the right (but not the obligation) to buy, and obligates the seller (writer) to sell (when the option is exercised) the underlying instrument at the exercise or strike price at any time or at a specified time during the option period. A put option gives the holder the right to sell and obligates the writer to buy the underlying instrument at the exercise or strike price at any time or at a specified time during the option period. When the Trusts purchase (write) an option, an amount equal to the premium paid (received) by the Trusts is reflected as an asset (liability). The amount of the asset (liability) is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option purchased (written). When an instrument is purchased or sold through an exercise of an option, the related premium paid (or received) is added to (or deducted from) the basis of the instrument acquired or deducted from (or added to) the proceeds of the instrument sold. When an option expires (or the Trusts enter into a closing transaction), the Trusts realize a gain or loss on the option to the extent of the premiums received or paid (or gain or loss to the extent the cost of the closing transaction exceeds the premiums received or paid). When the Trusts write a call option, such option is “covered,” meaning that the Trusts hold the underlying instrument subject to being called by the option counterparty. When the Trusts write a put option, such option is covered by cash in an amount sufficient to cover the obligation.

Options on swaps (“swaptions”) are similar to options on securities except that instead of selling or purchasing the right to buy or sell a security, the writer or purchaser of the swaptions is granting or buying the right to enter into a previously agreed upon interest rate or credit default swap agreement (interest rate risk and/or credit risk) at any time before the expiration of the option.

In purchasing and writing options, the Trusts bear the risk of an unfavorable change in the value of the underlying instrument or the risk that the Trusts may not be able to enter into a closing transaction due to an illiquid market. Exercise of a written option could result in the Trusts purchasing or selling a security when they otherwise would not, or at a price different from the current market value.

Transactions in options written for the year ended October 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

     Calls          Puts  
BTZ        Contracts     Notional
(000)
    Premiums
Received
         Contracts     Notional
(000)
    Premiums
Received
 

Outstanding options, beginning of year

      416             $ 103,235          3,500      $ 422,600      $ 7,143,141   

Options written

           $ 73,600        3,513,480          10,646        73,600        5,930,707   

Options exercised

                             (1,834            (512,438

Options expired

                             (7,450            (871,345

Options closed

      (416     (73,600     (3,616,715       (1,466     (89,600     (4,235,095
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding options, end of year

                             3,396      $ 406,600      $ 7,454,970   
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    67


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

 

     Calls          Puts  
BIT        Contracts     Notional
(000)
    Premiums
Received
         Contracts     Notional
(000)
    Premiums
Received
 

Outstanding options, beginning of year

                                             

Options written

      25             $ 2,149          1,031             $ 203,530   

Options exercised

                                             

Options expired

                             (966            (194,818

Options closed

      (25            (2,149       (25            (2,774
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding options, end of year

                             40             $ 5,938   
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swaps: The Trusts enter into swap agreements in which the Trusts and a counterparty agree either to make periodic net payments on a specified notional amount or a net payment upon termination. Swap agreements are privately negotiated in the OTC market and may be entered into as a bilateral contract (“OTC swaps”) or centrally cleared (“centrally cleared swaps”). Swaps are marked-to-market daily and changes in value are recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

For OTC swaps, any upfront premiums paid are recorded as assets and any upfront fees received are recorded as liabilities and are shown as swap premiums paid and swap premiums received, respectively, in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities and amortized over the term of the OTC swap. Payments received or made by the Trusts for OTC swaps are recorded in the Statements of Operations as realized gains or losses, respectively. When an OTC swap is terminated, the Trusts will record a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the proceeds from (or cost of) the closing transaction and the Trusts’ basis in the contract, if any. Generally, the basis of the contract is the premium received or paid.

In a centrally cleared swap, immediately following execution of the swap agreement, the swap agreement is novated to a central counterparty (the “CCP”) and the Trusts’ counterparty on the swap agreement becomes the CCP. The Trusts are required to interface with the CCP through a broker. Upon entering into a centrally cleared swap, the Trusts are required to deposit initial margin with the broker in the form of cash or securities in an amount that varies depending on the size and risk profile of the particular swap. Securities deposited as initial margin are designated on the Schedules of Investments and cash deposited is recorded on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as cash pledged for centrally cleared swaps. The daily change in valuation of centrally cleared swaps is recorded as a receivable or payable for variation margin in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Payments received from (paid to) the counterparty, including at termination, are recorded as realized gain (loss) in the Statements of Operations.

Swap transactions involve, to varying degrees, elements of interest rate, credit and market risk in excess of the amounts recognized in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Such risks involve the possibility that there will be no liquid market for these agreements, that the counterparty to the agreements may default on its obligation to perform or disagree as to the meaning of the contractual terms in the agreements, and that there may be unfavorable changes in interest rates and/or market values associated with these transactions.

 

Ÿ  

Credit default swaps — The Trusts enter into credit default swaps to manage their exposure to the market or certain sectors of the market, to reduce their risk exposure to defaults of corporate and/or sovereign issuers or to create exposure to corporate and/or sovereign issuers to which they are not otherwise exposed (credit risk). The Trusts may either buy or sell (write) credit default swaps on single-name issuers (corporate or sovereign), a combination or basket of single-name issuers or traded indexes. Credit default swaps on single-name issuers are agreements in which the protection buyer pays fixed periodic payments to the seller in consideration for a guarantee from the protection seller to make a specific payment should a negative credit event take place with respect to the referenced entity (e.g., bankruptcy, failure to pay, obligation accelerators, repudiation, moratorium or restructuring). Credit default swaps on traded indexes are agreements in which the buyer pays fixed periodic payments to the seller in consideration for a guarantee from the seller to make a specific payment should a write-down, principal or interest shortfall or default of all or individual underlying securities included in the index occur. As a buyer, if an underlying credit event occurs, the Trusts will either (i) receive from the seller an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and deliver the referenced security or underlying securities comprising the index, or (ii) receive a net settlement of cash equal to the notional amount of the swap less the recovery value of the security or underlying securities comprising the index. As a seller (writer), if an underlying credit event occurs, the Trusts will either pay the buyer an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced security or underlying securities comprising the index or pay a net settlement of cash equal to the notional amount of the swap less the recovery value of the security or underlying securities comprising the index.

 

Ÿ  

Interest rate swaps — The Trusts enter into interest rate swaps to gain or reduce exposure to interest rates or to manage duration, the yield curve or interest rate risk by economically hedging the value of the fixed rate bonds, which may decrease when interest rates rise (interest rate risk). Interest rate swaps are agreements in which one party pays a stream of interest payments, either fixed or floating, for another party’s stream of interest payments, either fixed or floating, on the same notional amount for a specified period of time.

 

                
68    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

The following is a summary of the Trusts’ derivative financial instruments categorized by risk exposure:

 

Fair Values of Derivative Financial Instruments as of October 31, 2014  
               BTZ     BGT     BIT        
         Value  
      Statements of Assets and Liabilities Location   Derivative
Assets
    Derivative
Liabilities
    Derivative
Assets
    Derivative
Liabilities
    Derivative
Assets
    Derivative
Liabilities
 

Interest rate contracts

   Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation1; Unrealized appreciation/depreciation on OTC swaps; Swap premiums received; Investments at value — unaffiliated2; Options written at value   $ 4,787,839      $ (7,828,916                 $ 8,479      $ (783,336

Foreign currency exchange contracts

   Unrealized appreciation/depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts                 $ 224,861      $ (33,770     171,580        (140,607

Credit contracts

   Unrealized appreciation/depreciation on OTC swaps; Swap premiums paid/received     1,638,874        (2,380,057                   1,270,110        (788,827
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

     $ 6,426,713      $ (10,208,973   $ 224,861      $ (33,770   $ 1,450,169      $ (1,712,770
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

  1  

Includes cumulative appreciation/depreciation on financial futures contracts and centrally cleared swaps, if any, as reported in the Schedules of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

 

  2  

Includes options purchased at value as reported in the Schedules of Investments.

 

The Effect of Derivative Financial Instruments in the Statements of Operations
Year Ended October 31, 2014
 
   

BTZ

   BGT      BIT           BTZ      BGT      BIT  
   

Net Realized Gain (Loss) From

          Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation/
Depreciation on
 
Interest rate contracts:                    

Financial futures contracts

  $(3,034,410)            $ (3,487,491       $ 1,924,960               $ (32,016

Swaps

  (8,655,901)              4,091            (1,681,583              (83,228

Options3

  (1,798,024)              (165,625         440,336                 (9,312
Foreign currency exchange contracts:                    

Foreign currency transactions/ translations

  64,446    $ 241,903         141,311            (19,412    $ (330,366      (702,611
Credit contracts:                    

Swaps

  (2,012,158)      (1,401,406      452,960            175,052         457,695         (35,883
Equity contracts:                    

Options3

  (4,158,824)                         1,325,641                   
 

 

  

 

 

    

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

  $(19,594,871)    $ (1,159,503    $ (3,054,754       $ 2,164,994       $ 127,329       $ (863,050
 

 

  

 

 

    

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  3  

Options purchased are included in the net realized gain (loss) from investments and net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments.

 

For the year ended October 31, 2014, the average quarterly balances of outstanding derivative financial instruments were as follows:

 

     BTZ      BGT      BIT  
Financial futures contracts:        

Average number of contracts purchased

    1,980                 436 1 

Average number of contracts sold

    1,671                 443   

Average notional value of contracts purchased

  $ 270,670,098               $ 105,780,814 1 

Average notional value of contracts sold

  $ 253,516,594               $ 58,812,596   
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts:        

Average number of contracts — U.S. dollars purchased

    1         4         5   

Average number of contracts — U.S. dollars sold

    1 1       2         3   

Average USD amounts purchased

  $ 962,994       $ 45,006,474       $ 52,637,359   

Average USD amounts sold

  $ 947,494 1     $ 2,915,416       $ 1,126,309   
Options:        

Average number of option contracts purchased

    3,607         26         16   

Average number of option contracts written

    962                 16   

Average notional value of option contracts purchased

  $ 28,842,500       $ 24,514       $ 40,625   

Average notional value of option contracts written

  $ 20,685,000               $ 40,625   

Average number of swaption contracts purchased

    6                   

Average number of swaption contracts written

    1                   

Average notional value of swaption contracts purchased

  $ 415,100,000                   

Average notional value of swaption contracts written

  $ 410,600,000                   
Credit default swaps:        

Average number of contracts — buy protection

    20         1         2   

Average number of contracts — sell protection

    16         11         2   

Average notional value — buy protection

  $ 119,124,523       $ 687,500       $ 11,794,625   

Average notional value — sell protection

  $ 69,519,175       $ 3,082,584       $ 10,899,750   

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    69


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

     BTZ      BGT    BIT  
Interest rate swaps:        

Average number of contracts — pays fixed rate

    9            1   

Average number of contracts — receives fixed rate

    1            2   

Average notional value — pays fixed rate

  $ 263,136,250          $ 87,500   

Average notional value — receives fixed rate

  $ 11,350,000          $ 5,253,000   

 

  1   

Average amounts for the period are shown due to limited outstanding derivative financial instruments as of each quarter.

Counterparty Credit Risk: A derivative contract may suffer a mark-to-market loss if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the market rates or values of the underlying instrument. Losses can also occur if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.

A Trust’s risk of loss from counterparty credit risk on OTC derivatives is generally limited to the aggregate unrealized gain netted against any collateral held by such Trust. For OTC options purchased, each Trust bears the risk of loss of the amount of the premiums paid plus the positive change in market values net of any collateral held by such Trust should the counterparty fail to perform under the contracts. Options written by the Trusts do not typically give rise to counterparty credit risk, as options written generally obligate the Trusts, and not the counterparty, to perform.

With exchange-traded purchased options, futures and centrally cleared swaps, there is less counterparty credit risk to the Trusts since the exchange or clearinghouse, as counterparty to such instruments, guarantees against a possible default. The clearinghouse stands between the buyer and the seller of the contract; therefore, credit risk is limited to failure of the clearinghouse. While offset rights may exist under applicable law, a Trust does not have a contractual right of offset against a clearing broker or clearinghouse in the event of a default (including the bankruptcy or insolvency) of the clearing broker or clearinghouse. Additionally, credit risk exists in exchange-traded futures and centrally cleared swaps with respect to initial and variation margin that is held in a clearing broker’s customer accounts. While clearing brokers are required to segregate customer margin from their own assets, in the event that a clearing broker becomes insolvent or goes into bankruptcy and at that time there is a shortfall in the aggregate amount of margin held by the clearing broker for all its clients, typically the shortfall would be allocated on a pro rata basis across all the clearing broker’s customers, potentially resulting in losses to the Trusts.

In order to better define their contractual rights and to secure rights that will help the Trusts mitigate their counterparty risk, the Trusts may enter into an International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreement (“ISDA Master Agreement”) or similar agreement with their counterparties. An ISDA Master Agreement is a bilateral agreement between each Trust and a counterparty that governs certain OTC derivatives and typically contains, among other things, collateral posting terms and netting provisions in the event of a default and/or termination event. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, each Trust may, under certain circumstances, offset with the counterparty certain derivative financial instruments’ payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment. The provisions of the ISDA Master Agreement typically permit a single net payment in the event of default including the bankruptcy or insolvency of the counterparty. Bankruptcy or insolvency laws of a particular jurisdiction may restrict or prohibit the right of offset in bankruptcy, insolvency or other events. In addition, certain ISDA Master Agreements allow counterparties to terminate derivative contracts prior to maturity in the event the Trusts’ net assets decline by a stated percentage or the Trusts fail to meet the terms of its ISDA Master Agreements. The result would cause the Trusts to accelerate payment of any net liability owed to the counterparty.

Collateral Requirements: For derivatives traded under an ISDA Master Agreement, the collateral requirements are typically calculated by netting the mark-to-market amount for each transaction under such agreement and comparing that amount to the value of any collateral currently pledged by the Trust and the counterparty.

Cash collateral that has been pledged to cover obligations of the Trusts and cash collateral received from the counterparty, if any, is reported separately on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as cash pledged as collateral and cash received as collateral, respectively. Non-cash collateral pledged by the Trusts, if any, is noted in the Schedules of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party has to exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold (typically either $250,000 or $500,000) before a transfer is required, which is determined at the close of business of the Trusts. Any additional required collateral is delivered to/pledged by the Trusts on the next business day. Typically, the Trusts and counterparties are not permitted to sell, re-pledge or use the collateral they receive. To the extent amounts due to the Trusts from their counterparties are not fully collateralized, the Trusts bear the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance. Likewise, to the extent the Trust has delivered collateral to a counterparty and stands ready to perform under the terms of their agreement with such counterparty, the Trusts bear the risk of loss from a counterparty in the amount of the value of the collateral in the event the counterparty fails to return such collateral.

For financial reporting purposes, the Trusts do not offset derivative assets and derivative liabilities that are subject to netting arrangements, if any, in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

 

                
70    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

As of October 31, 2014, the Trusts’ derivative assets and liabilities (by type) are as follows:

 

         BTZ     BGT     BIT          
      Assets     Liabilities     Assets           Liabilities     Assets     Liabilities  
Derivative Financial Instruments:            

Financial futures contracts

  $ 273,562      $ 400,503                    $ 208,795          

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts

                $ 224,861      $ 33,770        171,580      $ 140,607   

Options1

    3,369,343        2,444,259                      3,750        250   

Swaps — Centrally cleared

    376,026                             5,443        78,574   

Swaps — OTC2

    1,638,874        2,380,057                      1,274,607        632,463   
 

 

 

 

Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities

    5,657,805        5,224,819        224,861        33,770        1,664,175        851,894   
 

 

 

 

Derivatives not subject to an master netting agreement of similar agreement (“MNA”)

    (1,445,525     (931,128                   (217,988     (78,824
 

 

 

 

Total derivative assets and liabilities subject to an MNA

  $ 4,212,280      $ 4,293,691      $ 224,861      $ 33,770      $ 1,446,187      $ 773,070   
 

 

 

 

 

  1   

Includes options purchased at value which is included in Investments at value — unaffiliated in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities and reported in the Schedules of Investments.

 

  2   

Includes unrealized appreciation/depreciation on OTC swaps and swap premiums paid/received in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

The following tables present the Trusts’ derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under an MNA and net of the related collateral received and pledged by the Trusts as of October 31, 2014:

 

BTZ                                      
Counterparty        Derivative Assets
Subject to an MNA
by  Counterparty
    Derivatives
Available for
Offset1
   

Non-cash Collateral

Received

  Cash Collateral
Received2
    Net
Amount of
Derivative
Assets3
 

Barclays Bank PLC

    $ 33,168      $ (33,168                

BNP Paribas S.A.

      24,967                      $ 24,967   

Citibank N.A.

      200        (96     $ (104       

Credit Suisse International

      393,844        (393,844                

Deutsche Bank AG

      411,090        (411,090                

Goldman Sachs Bank USA

      336,792        (336,792                

Goldman Sachs International

      207,274        (207,274                

JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A.

      2,672,575        (2,008,994       (640,000     23,581   

Morgan Stanley Capital Services LLC

      441        (291              150   

Royal Bank of Scotland PLC

      88,521        (88,521                

UBS AG

      43,408        (28,507              14,901   
   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 4,212,280      $ (3,508,577     $ (640,104   $ 63,599   
   

 

 

 
   
BTZ                                      
Counterparty        Derivative Liabilities
Subject to an MNA
by Counterparty
    Derivatives
Available  for
Offset1
    Non-cash Collateral
Pledged
  Cash  Collateral
Pledged4
    Net
Amount of
Derivative
Liabilities5
 

Barclays Bank PLC

    $ 41,218      $ (33,168            $ 8,050   

Citibank N.A.

      96        (96                

Credit Suisse International

      593,380        (393,844              199,536   

Deutsche Bank AG

      857,685        (411,090     $ (446,595       

Goldman Sachs Bank USA

      375,367        (336,792              38,575   

Goldman Sachs International

      229,302        (207,274              22,028   

JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A.

      2,008,994        (2,008,994                

Morgan Stanley Capital Services LLC

      291        (291                

Royal Bank of Scotland PLC

      158,851        (88,521              70,330   

UBS AG

      28,507        (28,507                
   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 4,293,691      $ (3,508,577     $ (446,595   $ 338,519   
   

 

 

 
   
BGT                                      
Counterparty        Derivative Liabilities
Subject to an MNA
by Counterparty
    Derivatives
Available  for
Offset1
    Non-cash Collateral
Pledged
  Cash  Collateral
Pledged4
    Net
Amount of
Derivative
Liabilities5
 

Barclays Bank PLC

    $ 14,064      $ (14,064                

JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A.

      210,797                      $ 210,797   
   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 224,861      $ (14,064            $ 210,797   
   

 

 

 

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    71


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

 

BGT                                        
Counterparty        Derivative Liabilities
Subject to an MNA
by Counterparty
    Derivatives
Available  for
Offset1
    Non-cash Collateral
Pledged
    Cash  Collateral
Pledged4
   

Net

Amount of

Derivative

Liabilities5

 

Barclays Bank PLC

    $ 26,999      $ 14,064                    $ 12,935   

Deutsche Bank AG

      6,771                             6,771   
   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 33,770      $ 14,064                    $ 19,706   
   

 

 

 
           
BIT                                        
Counterparty        Derivative Assets
Subject to an MNA
by  Counterparty
    Derivatives
Available for
Offset1
   

Non-cash Collateral

Received

    Cash Collateral
Received2
   

Net
Amount of

Derivative
Assets3

 

Bank of America N.A.

    $ 1,438,561      $ (682,910          $ (660,000   $ 95,651   

Citibank N.A.

      4,729        (71                   4,658   

Credit Suisse International

      2,897        (2,897                     
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 1,446,187      $ (685,878          $ (660,000   $ 100,309   
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
           
BIT                                        
Counterparty        Derivative Liabilities
Subject to an MNA
by  Counterparty
    Derivatives
Available for
Offset1
    Non-cash Collateral
Received
    Cash Collateral
Received
    Net
Amount of
Derivative
Liabilities5
 

Bank of America N.A.

    $ 682,910      $ (682,910                     

Citibank N.A.

      71        (71                     

Credit Suisse International

      9,790        (2,897                 $ 6,893   

Deutsche Bank AG

      80,299                             80,299   
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $ 773,070      $ (685,878                 $ 87,192   
   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

  1  

The amount of derivatives available for offset is limited to the amount of the assets and/or liabilities that are subject to an MNA.

 

  2  

Excess of the collateral received from the individual counterparty is not shown for financial reporting purposes.

 

  3  

Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

  4  

Excess of the collateral pledged to the individual counterparty is not shown for financial reporting purposes.

 

  5  

Net amount represents the net amount payable due to the counterparty in the event of default.

5. Investment Advisory Agreement and Other Transactions with Affiliates:

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. is the largest stockholder and an affiliate, for 1940 Act purposes, of BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”).

Each Trust entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with BlackRock Advisors, LLC (the “Manager”), the Trusts’ investment advisor, an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of BlackRock, to provide investment advisory and administration services. The Manager is responsible for the management of each Trust’s portfolio and provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain other services to the operations of each Trust. For such services, each Trust pays the Manager a monthly fee based on a percentage of BTZ’s and BGT’s average weekly (average daily for BIT’s) net assets (including any assets attributable to borrowings) at the following annual rates:

 

BTZ

    0.62%   

BGT

    0.75%   

BIT

    0.80%   

The Manager voluntarily agreed to waive its investment advisory fees by the amount of investment advisory fees each Trust pays to the Manager indirectly through its investment in affiliated money market funds. However, the Manager does not waive its investment advisory fees by the amount of investment advisory fees paid in connection with each Trust’s investment in other affiliated investment companies, if any. These amounts are shown as fees waived by Manager in the Statements of Operations.

The Manager provides investment management and other services to the Taxable Subsidiary. The Manager does not receive separate compensation from the Taxable Subsidiary for providing investment management or administrative services. However, BGT pays the Manager based on BGT’s net assets, which includes the assets of the Taxable Subsidiary.

Prior to July 1, 2014, BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. (“BFM”), an affiliate of the Manager, served as a sub-advisor for each Trust and BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (“BIM”), an affiliate of the Manager, served as a sub-advisor for BTZ and BIT pursuant to sub-advisory agreements with the Manager. Each of BFM and BIM received for its services a monthly fee from the Manager at an annual rate equal to a percentage of the investment advisory fees paid by the Trust to the Manager. Effective July 1, 2014, the sub-advisory agreements between the Manager and BIM and BFM, with respect to each Trust, expired.

 

 

                
72    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

The Manager entered into a sub-advisory agreement with BlackRock (Singapore) Limited (“BRS”), an affiliate of the Manager, to serve as sub-advisor for BIT. The Manager pays BRS, for services it provides, a monthly fee that is a percentage of the investment advisory fees paid by BIT to the Manager.

Certain officers and/or Trustees of the Trusts are officers and/or directors of BlackRock or its affiliates. The Trusts reimburse the Manager for a portion of the compensation paid to the Trusts’ Chief Compliance Officer, which is included in officer and Trustees in the Statements of Operations.

The Trusts may purchase securities from, or sell securities to, an affiliated fund provided the affiliation is due solely to having a common investment advisor, common officers, or common trustees. For the year ended October 31, 2014, the purchase and sale transactions with an affiliated fund in compliance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act were as follows:

 

     BTZ  

Purchases

  $ 5,803,192   

Sales

  $ 274,216   

6. Purchases and Sales:

For the year ended October 31, 2014, purchases and sales of investments, including paydowns and excluding short-term securities and U.S. government securities were as follows:

 

     BTZ      BGT      BIT  

Purchases

  $ 561,778,144       $ 318,653,624       $ 487,283,819   

Sales

  $ 605,107,788       $ 326,254,196       $ 380,279,060   

For the year ended October 31, 2014, purchases and sales of U.S. government securities were as follows:

 

     BTZ  

Purchases

  $ 128,405,696   

Sales

  $ 109,934,788   

7. Income Tax Information:

It is the Trusts’ policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies, and to distribute substantially all of their taxable income to their shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required, except with respect to any taxes related to the Taxable Subsidiary.

Each Trust files U.S. federal and various state and local tax returns. No income tax returns are currently under examination. The statute of limitations on BTZ’s and BGT’s U.S. federal tax returns remains open for each of the four years ended October 31, 2014. The statute of limitations on BIT’s U.S. federal tax returns remains open for the period ended October 31, 2013 and the year ended October 31, 2014. The statutes of limitations on the Trusts’ state and local tax returns may remain open for an additional year depending upon the jurisdiction.

Management has analyzed tax laws and regulations and their application to the Trusts facts and circumstances and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability.

U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be adjusted to reflect permanent differences between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset values per share. As of October 31, 2014, the following permanent differences attributable to foreign currency transactions, the accounting for swap agreements, distributions in excess of taxable income, the classification of investments, income recognized from pass-through entities and the expiration of capital loss carryforwards were reclassified to the following accounts:

 

     BTZ      BGT      BIT  

Paid-in capital

  $ (14,225,327                

Undistributed net investment income

  $ (3,273,011    $ 2,651,356       $ (7,493,315

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

  $ 17,498,338       $ (2,651,356    $ 7,493,315   

The tax character of distributions paid during the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014 and October 31, 2013 were as follows:

 

            BTZ      BGT      BIT  

Ordinary income

    10/31/14      $ 104,413,172       $ 19,919,709       $ 53,805,642   
    10/31/13        99,536,463         24,716,431         26,851,648   

Tax return of capital

    10/31/13                        4,534,977   
   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

    10/31/14      $ 104,413,172       $ 19,919,709       $ 53,805,642   
   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
    10/31/13      $ 99,536,463       $ 24,716,431       $ 31,386,625   
   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    73


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)     

 

As of October 31, 2014, the tax components of accumulated net earnings (losses) were as follows:

 

     BTZ      BGT      BIT  

Undistributed ordinary income

          $ 2,500,339       $ 6,609,557   

Undistributed long-term capital gains

                    1,913,717   

Capital loss carryforwards

  $ (378,663,519      (76,451,577        

Net unrealized gains (losses)1

    147,069,574         (10,446,118      27,054,986   
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

  $ (231,593,945    $ (84,397,356    $ 35,578,260   
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  1   

The difference between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized gains (losses) was attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, amortization and accretion methods of premiums and discounts on fixed income securities, the accrual of income on securities in default, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains/losses on certain futures and foreign currency contracts, the timing and recognition of partnership income, the accounting for swap agreements, the classification of investments, the deferral of compensation to directors and investments in wholly owned subsidiaries.

As of October 31, 2014, the Trusts had capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized capital gains through the indicated expiration dates as follows:

 

Expires October 31,   BTZ     BGT  

2015

  $ 56,798,160          

2016

    121,634,930      $ 14,130,109   

2017

    158,120,431        45,385,443   

2018

    31,756,723        16,526,601   

2019

    10,353,275        409,424   
 

 

 

 

Total

  $ 378,663,519      $ 76,451,577   
 

 

 

 

During the year ended October 31, 2014, the Trusts listed below utilized the following amounts of their respective capital loss carryforward:

 

     BTZ     BGT     BIT  
    $ 10,703,001      $ 6,118,169      $ 2,838,978   

As of October 31, 2014, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation based on cost for federal income tax purposes were as follows:

 

     BTZ     BGT     BIT  

Tax cost

  $ 2,262,264,452      $ 505,118,248      $ 1,394,696,094   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

  $ 164,378,947      $ 2,815,569      $ 39,190,833   

Gross unrealized depreciation

    (17,372,188     (11,587,285     (13,056,437
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

  $ 147,006,759      $ (8,771,716   $ 26,134,396   
 

 

 

 

8. Borrowings:

BGT is party to a senior committed secured, 360-day rolling line of credit facility and a separate security agreement (the “SSB Agreement”) with State Street Bank and Trust Company (“SSB”). SSB may elect to terminate its commitment upon 360-days written notice to BGT. As of October 31, 2014, BGT has not received any notice to terminate. BGT has granted a security interest in substantially all of their assets to SSB.

The SSB Agreement allows for the following maximum commitment amounts of $172,000,000.

Advances will be made by SSB to BGT, at BGT’s option of (a) the higher of (i) 0.80% above the Fed Funds rate and (ii) 0.80% above the Overnight LIBOR or (b) 0.80% above 7-day, 30-day, 60-day or 90-day LIBOR.

In addition, BGT pays a facility fee and utilization fee (based on the daily unused portion of the commitments). The commitment fees are waived if BGT meets certain conditions. The fees associated with each of the agreements are included in the Statements of Operations as borrowing costs, if any. Advances to BGT as of October 31, 2014 are shown in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as bank borrowings payable. Based on the short-term nature of the borrowings under the line of credit and the variable interest rate, the carrying amount of the borrowings approximates fair value.

BGT may not declare dividends or make other distributions on shares or purchase any such shares if, at the time of the declaration, distribution or purchase, asset coverage with respect to the outstanding short-term borrowings is less than 300%.

For the year ended October 31, 2014, the daily weighted average interest rates for BGT with loans under the revolving credit agreements, was 0.91%.

For the year ended October 31, 2014, the daily weighted average interest rates from reverse repurchase agreements, were as follows:

 

     Daily
Weighted
Average
Interest Rate
 

BTZ

    0.34

BIT

    0.67

 

                
74    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)     

 

9. Principal Risks:

In the normal course of business, the Trusts invest in securities and enter into transactions where risks exist due to fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of the issuer of a security to meet all its obligations (issuer credit risk). The value of securities held by the Trusts may decline in response to certain events, including those directly involving the issuers whose securities are owned by the Trusts; conditions affecting the general economy; overall market changes; local, regional or global political, social or economic instability; and currency and interest rate and price fluctuations. Similar to issuer credit risk, the Trusts may be exposed to counterparty credit risk, or the risk that an entity with which the Trusts have unsettled or open transactions may fail to or be unable to perform on its commitments. The Trusts manage counterparty credit risk by entering into transactions only with counterparties that they believe have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by monitoring the financial stability of those counterparties. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Trusts to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks, consist principally of financial instruments and receivables due from counterparties. The extent of the Trusts’ exposure to market, issuer and counterparty credit risks with respect to these financial assets is generally approximated by their value recorded in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, less any collateral held by the Trusts.

The Trusts invest a significant portion of their assets in fixed-income securities and/or use derivatives tied to the fixed-income markets. See the Schedules of Investments for these securities and/or derivatives. Changes in market interest rates or economic conditions may affect the value and/or liquidity of such investments. Interest rate risk is the risk that prices of bonds and other fixed-income securities will increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. The Trusts may be subject to a greater risk of rising interest rates due to the current period of historically low rates.

As of October 31, 2014, BIT invested a significant portion of its assets in securities in the financials sector. Changes in economic conditions affecting such sector would have a greater impact on the Trust and could affect the value, income and/or liquidity of positions in such securities.

10. Capital Share Transactions:

The Trusts are each authorized to issue an unlimited number of $0.001 par value shares, which may be issued as either Common Shares or Preferred Shares.

Common Shares

For the years shown, shares issued and outstanding increased by the following amounts as a result of dividend reinvestment:

 

     Year Ended
October 31, 2014
    Year Ended
October 31, 2013
 

BGT

           25,384   

Shares issued and outstanding increased 56,260,013 from the reorganization for the year ended October 31, 2013 for BTZ.

For BIT, at October 31, 2014, 6,964 shares were owned by affiliates.

Shares issued and outstanding for the period February 27, 2013 to October 31, 2013, increased by 36,006,964 from the initial public offering and 2,414,660 from the underwriters’ exercising the overallotment option for BIT.

11. Subsequent Events:

Management’s evaluation of the impact of all subsequent events on the Trusts’ financial statements was completed through the date the financial statements were issued and the following items were noted:

Each Trust paid a net investment income dividend in the following amounts per share on November 28, 2014 to shareholders of record on November 14, 2014:

 

     Common
Dividend
Per Share
 

BTZ

  $ 0.0805   

BGT

  $ 0.0653   

BIT

  $ 0.1167   

The Trusts declared a net investment income dividend on December 1, 2014 payable to Common Shareholders of record on December 12, 2014 for the same amounts noted above.

Additionally, the Trusts declared a distribution in the following amounts per share on December 19, 2014 payable to shareholders of record on December 31, 2014 as follows:

 

     Common
Dividend
Per Share
 

BTZ

  $ 0.0805   

BGT1

  $ 0.0993   

BIT2

  $ 0.2007   

 

  1   

Includes special distribution of $0.0340.

  2   

Includes special distribution of $0.0840.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    75


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm     

 

To the Board of Trustees and Shareholders of BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust, BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust and BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust:

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust, including the schedule of investments, as of October 31, 2014, and the related statements of operations and cash flows for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended. We have also audited the accompanying consolidated statement of assets and liabilities of BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust, including the consolidated schedule of investments, as of October 31, 2014, and the related consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for the year then ended, the consolidated statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended (consolidated financial highlights for each of the three years ended October 31, 2014). We have also audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (collectively with the aforementioned funds above, the “Trusts”), including the schedule of investments, as of October 31, 2014, and the related statements of operations and cash flows for the year then ended, and the statements of changes in net assets and the financial highlights for the year then ended and the period February 27, 2013 (commencement of operations) to October 31, 2013. These financial statements and financial highlights are the responsibility of the Trusts’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial highlights based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement. The Trusts are not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of their internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trusts’ internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2014, by correspondence with the custodians, brokers and agent banks; where replies were not received from brokers or agent banks, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such financial statements and financial highlights referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust as of October 31, 2014, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, the consolidated financial position of BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust as of October 31, 2014, the results of its consolidated operations and its consolidated cash flows for the year then ended, the changes in its consolidated net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended (consolidated financial highlights for each of the three years ended October 31, 2014), and the financial position of BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust as of October 31, 2014, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, and the changes in net assets and financial highlights for the year then ended and the period February 27, 2013 (commencement of operations) to October 31, 2013, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Boston, Massachusetts

December 23, 2014

 

Important Tax Information (Unaudited)

The following information is provided with respect to the ordinary income distributions paid by the Trusts during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2014:

 

     Payable Dates     BTZ     BGT     BIT  

Qualified Dividend Income for Individuals1

    November 2013 - January 2014        6.11%               13.98%   
      February 2014 - October 2014        7.53%               7.17%   

Dividends Qualifying for the Dividend Received Deduction for Corporations1

    November 2013 - January 2014        3.90%               8.01%   
      February 2014 - October 2014        5.84%               5.25%   

Interest-Related Dividends for Non-US Residents2

    November 2013 - January 2014        82.59%        76.18%        73.14%   
      February 2014 - October 2014        75.27%        65.94%        54.49%   

 

  1   

The Trusts hereby designate the percentage indicated or the maximum amount allowable by law.

 

  2   

Represents the portion of the taxable ordinary income dividends eligible for exemption from U.S. withholding tax for nonresident aliens and foreign corporations.

 

                
76    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Disclosure of Investment Advisory Agreements and Sub-Advisory Agreement

 

The Board of Trustees (each, a “Board,” collectively, the “Boards,” and the members of which are referred to as “Board Members”) of BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (“BTZ”), BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (“BGT”) and BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (“BIT,” and together with BGT and BTZ, each a “Fund,” and, collectively, the “Funds”) met in person on May 9, 2014 (the “May Meeting”) and June 5-6, 2014 (the “June Meeting”) to consider the approval of each Fund’s investment advisory agreement (each, an “Advisory Agreement,” and, collectively, the “Advisory Agreements”) with BlackRock Advisors, LLC (the “Manager”), each Fund’s investment advisor. At the June Meeting, it was noted that, (i) with respect to BGT, BTZ and BIT, the sub-advisory agreement among the Manager, BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. and each Fund would expire or terminate, as applicable, effective July 1, 2014 and (ii) with respect to BTZ and BIT, the sub-advisory agreement among the Manager, BlackRock Investment Management, LLC and each Fund would expire or terminate, as applicable, effective July 1, 2014. It was also noted that the non-renewal or termination of each Fund’s foregoing sub-advisory agreement(s) would not result in any change in the nature or quality of services provided to such Fund, or in the portfolio management team that serves such Fund. The Board of BIT also considered the approval of the sub-advisory agreement (the “BSL Sub-Advisory Agreement”) among the Manager, BlackRock (Singapore) Limited (the “BSL Sub-Advisor”), and BIT. The Manager and the BSL Sub-Advisor are referred to herein as “BlackRock.” The Advisory Agreements and the BSL Sub-Advisory Agreement are referred to herein as the “Agreements.”

Activities and Composition of the Board

Each Board consists of eleven individuals, nine of whom are not “interested persons” of such Fund as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) (the “Independent Board Members”). The Board Members are responsible for the oversight of the operations of the Funds and perform the various duties imposed on the directors of investment companies by the 1940 Act. The Independent Board Members have retained independent legal counsel to assist them in connection with their duties. The Chairman of each Board is an Independent Board Member. Each Board has established six standing committees: an Audit Committee, a Governance and Nominating Committee, a Compliance Committee, a Performance Oversight Committee, an Executive Committee, and a Leverage Committee, each of which is chaired by an Independent Board Member and composed of Independent Board Members (except for the Executive Committee and the Leverage Committee, each of which also has one interested Board Member).

The Agreements

Pursuant to the 1940 Act, each Board is required to consider the continuation of its Advisory Agreement, and with respect to BIT, its BSL Sub-Advisory Agreement, on an annual basis. The Boards have four quarterly meetings per year, each extending over two days, and a fifth one-day meeting to consider specific information surrounding the consideration of renewing the Agreements. In connection with this process, the Boards assessed, among other things, the nature, scope and quality of the services provided to the Funds by BlackRock, its personnel and its affiliates, including, as applicable, investment management, administrative, and shareholder services; oversight of fund service providers; marketing services; risk oversight; compliance and assistance in meeting applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

The Boards, acting directly and through their respective committees, consider at each of their meetings, and from time to time as appropriate, factors that are relevant to their annual consideration of the renewal of the Agreements, including the services and support provided by BlackRock to the Funds and their shareholders. Among the matters the Boards considered were: (a) investment performance for one-year, three-year, five-year and/or since inception periods, as applicable, against peer funds, and applicable benchmarks, if any, as well as senior management’s and portfolio managers’ analysis of the reasons for any over-performance or underperformance against their peers and/or benchmark, as applicable; (b) fees, including advisory, administration, if applicable, and other amounts paid to BlackRock and its affiliates by the Funds for services such as call center; (c) Fund operating expenses and how BlackRock allocates expenses to the Funds; (d) the resources devoted to, risk oversight of, and compliance reports relating to, implementation of the Funds’ investment objective, policies and restrictions, and meeting new regulatory requirements; (e) the Funds’ compliance with their Code of Ethics and other compliance policies and procedures; (f) the nature, cost and character of non-investment management services provided by BlackRock and its affiliates; (g) BlackRock’s and other service providers’ internal controls and risk and compliance oversight mechanisms; (h) BlackRock’s implementation of the proxy voting policies approved by the Boards; (i) execution quality of portfolio transactions; (j) BlackRock’s implementation of the Funds’ valuation and liquidity procedures; (k) an analysis of management fees for products with similar investment objectives across the open-end fund, closed-end fund and institutional account product channels, as applicable; (l) BlackRock’s compensation methodology for its investment professionals and the incentives it creates; and (m) periodic updates on BlackRock’s business.

The Boards have engaged in an ongoing strategic review with BlackRock of opportunities to consolidate funds and of BlackRock’s commitment to investment performance. BlackRock also furnished information to the Boards in response to specific questions. These questions covered issues such as: BlackRock’s profitability; investment performance; subadvisory and advisory relationships with other clients (including mutual funds sponsored by third parties); investment professional investment in funds they manage; and management fee levels and breakpoints. The Boards further discussed with BlackRock: BlackRock’s management structure; portfolio turnover; BlackRock’s portfolio manager compensation and performance accountability; marketing support for the Funds; services provided to the Funds by BlackRock affiliates; and BlackRock’s oversight of relationships with third party service providers.

The Board of each of BTZ and BGT considered BlackRock’s efforts during the past year with regard to refinancing outstanding AMPS, as well as ongoing time and resources devoted to other forms of preferred shares and alternative leverage. As of the date of this report, each of BTZ and BGT has redeemed 100% of its outstanding AMPS.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    77


Disclosure of Investment Advisory Agreements and Sub-Advisory Agreement (continued)

 

Board Considerations in Approving the Agreements

The Approval Process: Prior to the May Meeting, the Boards requested and received materials specifically relating to the Agreements. The Boards are continuously engaged in a process with their independent legal counsel and BlackRock to review the nature and scope of the information provided to better assist their deliberations. The materials provided in connection with the May Meeting included (a) information independently compiled and prepared by Lipper, Inc. (“Lipper”) on Fund fees and expenses as compared with a peer group of funds as determined by Lipper (“Expense Peers”) and the investment performance of the Funds as compared with a peer group of funds as determined by Lipper1 and, with respect to BTZ and BGT, a customized peer group selected by BlackRock; (b) information on the profits realized by BlackRock and its affiliates pursuant to the Agreements and a discussion of fall-out benefits to BlackRock and its affiliates; (c) a general analysis provided by BlackRock concerning investment management fees charged to other clients, such as institutional clients and open-end funds, under similar investment mandates, as applicable; (d) review of non-management fees; (e) the existence, impact and sharing of potential economies of scale; (f) a summary of aggregate amounts paid by each Fund to BlackRock and (g) if applicable, a comparison of management fees to similar BlackRock closed-end funds, as classified by Lipper.

At the May Meeting, the Boards reviewed materials relating to their consideration of the Agreements. As a result of the discussions that occurred during the May Meeting, and as a culmination of the Boards’ year-long deliberative process, the Boards presented BlackRock with questions and requests for additional information. BlackRock responded to these requests with additional written information in advance of the June Meeting.

At the June Meeting, each Board, including the Independent Board Members, unanimously approved the continuation of the Advisory Agreement between the Manager and its Fund for a one-year term ending June 30, 2015. The Board of BIT, including the Independent Board Members, also unanimously approved the continuation of the BSL Sub-Advisory Agreement among the Manager, the BSL Sub-Adviser and BIT for a one-year term ending June 30, 2015. In approving the continuation of the Agreements, the Boards considered: (a) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by BlackRock; (b) the investment performance of the Funds and BlackRock; (c) the advisory fee and the cost of the services and profits to be realized by BlackRock and its affiliates from their relationship with the Funds; (d) the Funds’ costs to investors compared to the costs of Expense Peers and performance compared to the relevant performance comparison as previously discussed; (e) economies of scale; (f) fall-out benefits to BlackRock and its affiliates as a result of its relationship with the Funds; and (g) other factors deemed relevant by the Board Members.

The Boards also considered other matters they deemed important to the approval process, such as payments made to BlackRock or its affiliates relating to securities lending, services related to the valuation and pricing of Fund portfolio holdings, direct and indirect benefits to BlackRock and its affiliates from their relationship with the Funds and advice from independent legal counsel with respect to the review process and materials submitted for the Boards’ review. The Boards noted the willingness of BlackRock personnel to engage in open, candid discussions with the Boards. The Boards did not identify any particular information as determinative, and each Board Member may have attributed different weights to the various items considered.

A. Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided by BlackRock: The Boards, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed the nature, extent and quality of services provided by BlackRock, including the investment advisory services and the resulting performance of the Funds. Throughout the year, each Board compared its Fund’s performance to the performance of a comparable group of closed-end funds and/or the performance of a relevant benchmark, as applicable. The Boards met with BlackRock’s senior management personnel responsible for investment activities, including the senior investment officers. Each Board also reviewed the materials provided by its Fund’s portfolio management team discussing the Fund’s performance and the Fund’s investment objective, strategies and outlook.

Each Board considered, among other factors, with respect to BlackRock: the number, education and experience of investment personnel generally and its Fund’s portfolio management team; investments by portfolio managers in the funds they manage; portfolio trading capabilities; use of technology; commitment to compliance; credit analysis capabilities; risk analysis and oversight capabilities; and the approach to training and retaining portfolio managers and other research, advisory and management personnel. Each Board engaged in a review of BlackRock’s compensation structure with respect to its Fund’s portfolio management team and BlackRock’s ability to attract and retain high-quality talent and create performance incentives.

In addition to advisory services, the Boards considered the quality of the administrative and other non-investment advisory services provided to the Funds. BlackRock and its affiliates provide the Funds with certain services (in addition to any such services provided to the Funds by third parties) and officers and other personnel as are necessary for the operations of the Funds. In particular, BlackRock and its affiliates provide the Funds with the following administrative services including, among others: (i) preparing disclosure documents, such as the prospectus and the statement of additional information in connection with the initial public offering, and periodic shareholder reports; (ii) preparing communications with analysts to support secondary market trading of the Funds; (iii) oversight of daily accounting and pricing; (iv) preparing periodic filings with regulators and stock exchanges; (v) overseeing and coordinating the activities of other service providers; (vi) organizing Board meetings and preparing the materials for such Board meetings; (vii) providing legal and compliance support; (viii) furnishing analytical and other support to assist the Board in its consideration of strategic issues such as the merger or consolidation of certain closed-end funds; and (ix) performing other administrative functions necessary for the operation of the Funds, such as tax reporting, fulfilling regulatory filing requirements and call center services. The Boards reviewed the structure and duties of BlackRock’s fund administration, shareholder services, legal and compliance departments and considered BlackRock’s policies and procedures for assuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

 

1   

Funds are ranked by Lipper in quartiles, ranging from first to fourth, where first is the most desirable quartile position and fourth is the least desirable.

 

                
78    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Disclosure of Investment Advisory Agreements and Sub-Advisory Agreement (continued)

 

B. The Investment Performance of the Funds and BlackRock: Each Board, including the Independent Board Members, also reviewed and considered the performance history of its Fund. In preparation for the May Meeting, the Boards worked with their independent legal counsel, BlackRock and Lipper to develop a template for, and were provided with reports independently prepared by Lipper, which included a comprehensive analysis of each Fund’s performance. The Boards also reviewed a narrative and statistical analysis of the Lipper data that was prepared by BlackRock, which analyzed various factors that affect Lipper’s rankings. In connection with its review, each Board received and reviewed information regarding the investment performance, based on net asset value (NAV), of its Fund as compared to other funds in that Fund’s applicable Lipper category and, with respect to BTZ and BGT, the customized peer group selected by BlackRock. The Boards were provided with a description of the methodology used by Lipper to select peer funds and periodically meets with Lipper representatives to review its methodology. Each Board and its Performance Oversight Committee regularly review, and meet with Fund management to discuss, the performance of its Fund throughout the year.

The Board of BTZ noted that for each of the one-, three- and five-year periods reported, BTZ ranked in the first quartile against its Customized Lipper Peer Group. BlackRock believes that the Customized Lipper Peer Group is an appropriate performance metric for BTZ.

The Board of BGT noted that for the one-, three- and five-year periods reported, BGT ranked in the third, third and fourth quartiles, respectively, against its Customized Lipper Peer Group. BlackRock believes that the Customized Lipper Peer Group is an appropriate performance metric for BGT. The Board of BGT and BlackRock reviewed and discussed the reasons for BGT’s underperformance during these periods. BGT’s Board was informed that, among other things, the two factors with the greatest impact on performance relative to peers during these periods were BGT’s leverage utilization and higher quality investment style. BGT obtains leverage through a contractual bank line, which limits its ability to obtain leverage beyond 33% of Fund assets. This generally causes BGT to lag during favorable market periods. The investment style of BGT tends to be of higher quality in terms of the average borrower, the structure, terms and conditions of the loans, and the liquidity of the deals the investment team invests in. Over time, Fund management believes this will lead to better risk-adjusted returns, but in strong risk periods when markets and/or lower-quality loan instruments are rising, it can exaggerate the degree of underperformance.

The Board of BGT and BlackRock also discussed BlackRock’s strategy for improving BGT’s performance and BlackRock’s commitment to providing the resources necessary to assist the Fund’s portfolio managers in seeking to improve BGT’s performance.

The Board of BIT noted that for the since-inception period reported, BIT ranked in the first quartile against its Lipper Performance Universe.

C. Consideration of the Advisory/Management Fees and the Cost of the Services and Profits to be Realized by BlackRock and its Affiliates from their Relationship with the Funds: Each Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed its Fund’s contractual management fee rate compared with the other funds in its Lipper category. The contractual management fee rate represents a combination of the advisory fee and any administrative fees, before taking into account any reimbursements or fee waivers. Each Board also compared its Fund’s total expense ratio, as well as its actual management fee rate, to those of other funds in its Lipper category. The total expense ratio represents a fund’s total net operating expenses, excluding any investment related expenses. The total expense ratio gives effect to any expense reimbursements or fee waivers that benefit a fund, and the actual management fee rate gives effect to any management fee reimbursements or waivers that benefit a fund. The Boards considered the services provided and the fees charged by BlackRock and its affiliates to other types of clients with similar investment mandates, as applicable, including institutional accounts.

The Boards received and reviewed statements relating to BlackRock’s financial condition. Each Board was also provided with a profitability analysis that detailed the revenues earned and the expenses incurred by BlackRock for services provided to its Fund. Each Board reviewed BlackRock’s profitability with respect to its Fund and other funds the Board currently oversees for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to available aggregate profitability data provided for the prior two years. The Boards reviewed BlackRock’s profitability with respect to certain other fund complexes managed by the Manager and/or its affiliates. The Boards reviewed BlackRock’s assumptions and methodology of allocating expenses in the profitability analysis, noting the inherent limitations in allocating costs among various advisory products. The Boards recognized that profitability may be affected by numerous factors including, among other things, fee waivers and expense reimbursements by the Manager, the types of funds managed, precision of expense allocations and business mix. As a result, calculating and comparing profitability at individual fund levels is difficult.

The Boards noted that, in general, individual fund or product line profitability of other advisors is not publicly available. The Boards reviewed BlackRock’s overall operating margin, in general, compared to that of certain other publicly-traded asset management firms. The Boards considered the differences between BlackRock and these other firms, including the contribution of technology at BlackRock, BlackRock’s expense management, and the relative product mix.

In addition, each Board considered the cost of the services provided to its Fund by BlackRock, and BlackRock’s and its affiliates’ profits relating to the management of its Fund and the other funds advised by BlackRock and its affiliates. As part of its analysis, each Board reviewed BlackRock’s methodology in allocating its costs to the management of its Fund. Each Board also considered whether BlackRock has the financial resources necessary to attract and retain high quality investment management personnel to perform its obligations under the Agreements for its Fund and to continue to provide the high quality of services that is expected by the Board. The Boards further considered factors including but not limited to BlackRock’s commitment of time, assumption of risk and liability profile in servicing the Funds in contrast to what is required of BlackRock with respect to other products with similar investment objectives across the open-end fund, ETF, closed-end fund and institutional account product channels, as applicable.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    79


Disclosure of Investment Advisory Agreements and Sub-Advisory Agreement (concluded)

 

The Board of BTZ noted that BTZ’s contractual management fee rate ranked in the fourth quartile, and that the actual management fee rate and total expense ratio ranked in the fourth and third quartiles, respectively, relative to the Expense Peers. The Board of BTZ determined that BTZ’s total expense ratio was appropriate in light of the median total expense ratio paid by BTZ’s Expense Peers.

The Board of BGT noted that BGT’s contractual management fee rate ranked in the first quartile, and that the actual management fee rate and total expense ratio each ranked in the first quartile, relative to BGT’s Expense Peers.

The Board of BIT noted that BIT’s contractual management fee rate ranked in the third quartile, and that the actual management fee rate and total expense ratio each ranked in the fourth quartile, relative to BIT’s Expense Peers.

D. Economies of Scale: Each Board, including the Independent Board Members, considered the extent to which economies of scale might be realized as the assets of its Fund increase. Each Board also considered the extent to which its Fund benefits from such economies and whether there should be changes in the advisory fee rate or breakpoint structure in order to enable the Fund to participate in these economies of scale, for example through the use of breakpoints in the advisory fee based upon the asset level of the Fund.

Based on the Boards’ review and consideration of the issue, the Boards concluded that most closed-end funds do not have fund level breakpoints because closed-end funds generally do not experience substantial growth after the initial public offering. They are typically priced at scale at a fund’s inception.

E. Other Factors Deemed Relevant by the Board Members: Each Board, including the Independent Board Members, also took into account other ancillary or “fall-out” benefits that BlackRock or its affiliates may derive from their respective relationships with its Fund, both tangible and intangible, such as BlackRock’s ability to leverage its investment professionals who manage other portfolios and risk management personnel, an increase in BlackRock’s profile in the investment advisory community, and the engagement of BlackRock’s affiliates as service providers to the Fund, including securities lending and cash management services. The Boards also considered BlackRock’s overall operations and its efforts to expand the scale of, and improve the quality of, its operations. The Boards also noted that BlackRock may use and benefit from third party research obtained by soft dollars generated by certain registered fund transactions to assist in managing all or a number of its other client accounts. The Boards further noted that it had considered the investment by BlackRock’s funds in exchange traded funds (i.e., ETFs) without any offset against the management fees payable by the funds to BlackRock.

In connection with its consideration of the Agreements, the Boards also received information regarding BlackRock’s brokerage and soft dollar practices. The Boards received reports from BlackRock which included information on brokerage commissions and trade execution practices throughout the year.

Each Board noted the competitive nature of the closed-end fund marketplace, and that shareholders are able to sell their Fund shares in the secondary market if they believe that their Fund’s fees and expenses are too high or if they are dissatisfied with the performance of their Fund.

The Boards also considered the various notable initiatives and projects BlackRock performed in connection with its closed-end fund product line. These initiatives included completion of the refinancing of auction rate preferred securities; developing equity shelf programs; efforts to eliminate product overlap with fund mergers; ongoing services to manage leverage that has become increasingly complex; share repurchases and other support initiatives for certain BlackRock funds; and continued communications efforts with shareholders, fund analysts and financial advisers. With respect to the latter, the Independent Board Members noted BlackRock’s continued commitment to supporting the secondary market for the common shares of its closed-end funds through a comprehensive secondary market communication program designed to raise investor and analyst awareness and understanding of closed-end funds. BlackRock’s support services included, among other things: continuing communications concerning the refinancing efforts related to auction rate preferred securities; sponsoring and participating in conferences; communicating with closed-end fund analysts covering the BlackRock funds throughout the year; providing marketing and product updates for the closed-end funds; and maintaining and enhancing its closed-end fund website.

Conclusion

Each Board, including the Independent Board Members, unanimously approved the continuation of the Advisory Agreement between the Manager and its Fund for a one-year term ending June 30, 2015. The Board of BIT, including the Independent Board Members, also unanimously approved the continuation of the BSL Sub-Advisory Agreement among the Manager, the BSL Sub-Adviser and BIT for a one-year term ending June 30, 2015. Based upon its evaluation of all of the aforementioned factors in their totality, each Board, including the Independent Board Members, were satisfied that the terms of the Agreements were fair and reasonable and in the best interest of its Fund and its shareholders. In arriving at its decision to approve the Agreements for its Fund, the Board did not identify any single factor or group of factors as all-important or controlling, but considered all factors together, and different Board Members may have attributed different weights to the various factors considered. The Independent Board Members were also assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel in making this determination. The contractual fee arrangements for the Funds reflect the results of several years of review by the Board Members and predecessor Board Members, and discussions between such Board Members (and predecessor Board Members) and BlackRock. As a result, the Board Members’ conclusions may be based in part on their consideration of these arrangements in prior years.

 

                
80    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan     

 

Pursuant to each Trust’s Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the “Reinvestment Plan”), Common Shareholders are automatically enrolled to have all distributions of dividends and capital gains reinvested by Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (the “Reinvestment Plan Agent”) in the respective Fund’s shares pursuant to the Reinvestment Plan. Shareholders who do not participate in the Reinvestment Plan will receive all distributions in cash paid by check and mailed directly to the shareholders of record (or if the shares are held in street name or other nominee name, then to the nominee) by the Reinvestment Plan Agent, which serves as agent for the shareholders in administering the Reinvestment Plan.

After the Trusts declare a dividend or determine to make a capital gain distribution, the Reinvestment Plan Agent will acquire shares for the participants’ accounts, depending upon the following circumstances, either (i) through receipt of unissued but authorized shares from the Trusts (“newly issued shares”) or (ii) by purchase of outstanding shares on the open market or on the Trust’s primary exchange (“open-market purchases”). If, on the dividend payment date, the net asset value per share (“NAV”) is equal to or less than the market price per share plus estimated brokerage commissions (such condition often referred to as a “market premium”), the Reinvestment Plan Agent will invest the dividend amount in newly issued shares acquired on behalf of the participants. The number of newly issued shares to be credited to each participant’s account will be determined by dividing the dollar amount of the dividend by the NAV on the date the shares are issued. However, if the NAV is less than 95% of the market price on the dividend payment date, the dollar amount of the dividend will be divided by 95% of the market price on the dividend payment date. If, on the dividend payment date, the NAV is greater than the market price per share plus estimated brokerage commissions (such condition often referred to as a “market discount”), the Reinvestment Plan Agent will invest the dividend amount in shares acquired on behalf of the participants in open-market purchases. If the Reinvestment Plan Agent is unable to invest the full dividend amount in open-market purchases, or if the market discount shifts to a market premium during the purchase period, the Reinvestment Plan Agent will invest any un-invested portion in newly issued shares. Investments in newly issued shares made in this manner would be made pursuant to the same process described above and the date of issue for such newly issued shares will substitute for the dividend payment date.

Participation in the Reinvestment Plan is completely voluntary and may be terminated or resumed at any time without penalty by notice if received and processed by the Reinvestment Plan Agent prior to the dividend record date. Additionally, the Reinvestment Plan Agent seeks to process notices received after the record date but prior to the payable date and such notices often will become effective by the payable date. Where late notices are not processed by the applicable payable date, such termination or resumption will be effective with respect to any subsequently declared dividend or other distribution.

The Reinvestment Plan Agent’s fees for the handling of the reinvestment of distributions will be paid by each Trust. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred with respect to the Reinvestment Plan Agent’s open market purchases in connection with the reinvestment of distributions. The automatic reinvestment of all distributions will not relieve participants of any federal income tax that may be payable on such dividends or distributions.

Each Trust reserves the right to amend or terminate the Reinvestment Plan. There is no direct service charge to participants in the Reinvestment Plan. However, each Trust reserves the right to amend the Reinvestment Plan to include a service charge payable by the participants. Participants that request a sale of shares are subject to a $2.50 sales fee and a $0.15 per share fee. Per share fees include any applicable brokerage commissions the Reinvestment Plan Agent is required to pay. AII correspondence concerning the Reinvestment Plan should be directed to Computershare Trust Company, N.A. through the internet at http://www.computershare.com/blackrock, or in writing to Computershare, P.O. Box 30170, College Station TX 77842-3170, Telephone: (800) 699-1236. Overnight correspondence should be directed to the Reinvestment Plan Agent at Computershare, 211 Quality Circle, Suite 210, College Station, TX 77845.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    81


Officers and Trustees     

 

Name, Address1

and Year of Birth

 

Position(s)

Held with

Trusts

 

Length

of Time
Served as
a Trustee3

  Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years  

Number of BlackRock-
Advised Registered
Investment Companies
(“RICs”)  Consisting of

Investment Portfolios
(“Portfolios”) Overseen

 

Public

Directorships

Independent Trustees2                    

Richard E. Cavanagh

 

1946

  Chairman of the Board and Trustee  

Since

2007

  Trustee, Aircraft Finance Trust from 1999 to 2009; Director, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America since 1998; Director, Arch Chemical (chemical and allied products) from 1999 to 2011; Trustee, Educational Testing Service from 1997 to 2009 and Chairman thereof from 2005 to 2009; Senior Advisor, The Fremont Group since 2008 and Director thereof since 1996; Faculty Member/Adjunct Lecturer, Harvard University since 2007; President and Chief Executive Officer, The Conference Board, Inc. (global business research organization) from 1995 to 2007.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

  None

Karen P. Robards

 

1950

  Vice Chairperson of the Board, Chairperson of the Audit Committee and Trustee  

Since

2007

  Partner of Robards & Company, LLC (financial advisory firm) since 1987; Co-founder and Director of the Cooke Center for Learning and Development (a not-for-profit organization) since 1987; Director of Care Investment Trust, Inc. (health care real estate investment trust) from 2007 to 2010; Investment Banker at Morgan Stanley from 1976 to 1987.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

  AtriCure, Inc. (medical devices); Greenhill & Co. Inc.

Michael J. Castellano

 

1946

  Trustee and Member of the Audit Committee  

Since

2011

  Chief Financial Officer of Lazard Group LLC from 2001 to 2011; Chief Financial Officer of Lazard Ltd from 2004 to 2011; Director, Support Our Aging Religious (non-profit) since 2009; Director, National Advisory Board of Church Management at Villanova University since 2010. Trustee, Domestic Church Media Foundation since 2012.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

  None

Frank J. Fabozzi4

 

1948

  Trustee and Member of the Audit Committee  

Since

2007

  Editor of and Consultant for The Journal of Portfolio Management since 2006; Professor of Finance, EDHEC Business School since 2011; Professor in the Practice of Finance and Becton Fellow, Yale University School of Management from 2006 to 2011; Adjunct Professor of Finance and Becton Fellow, Yale University from 1994 to 2006.  

112 RICs consisting of

232 Portfolios

  None

Kathleen F. Feldstein

 

1941

 

Trustee

 

Since

2007

  President of Economics Studies, Inc. (private economic consulting firm) since 1987; Chair, Board of Trustees, McLean Hospital from 2000 to 2008 and Trustee Emeritus thereof since 2008; Member of the Board of Partners Community Healthcare, Inc. from 2005 to 2009; Member of the Corporation of Partners HealthCare since 1995; Trustee, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston since 1992; Member of the Visiting Committee to the Harvard University Art Museum since 2003; Director, Catholic Charities of Boston since 2009.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

 

The McClatchy
Company

(publishing)

James T. Flynn

 

1939

  Trustee and Member of the Audit Committee  

Since

2007

  Chief Financial Officer of JPMorgan & Co., Inc. from 1990 to 1995.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

  None

Jerrold B. Harris

 

1942

 

Trustee

 

Since

2007

  Trustee, Ursinus College since 2000; Director, Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (conservations) since 2013; Director, Troemner LLC (scientific equipment) since 2000; Director of Delta Waterfowl Foundation from 2010 to 2012; President and Chief Executive Officer, VWR Scientific Products Corporation from 1990 to 1999.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

 

BlackRock Kelso

Capital Corp.

(business development company)

R. Glenn Hubbard

 

1958

 

Trustee

 

Since

2007

  Dean, Columbia Business School since 2004; Faculty member, Columbia Business School since 1988.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

  ADP (data and information services); Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (insurance)

 

                
82    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Officers and Trustees (continued)     

 

Name, Address1

and Year of Birth

 

Position(s)

Held with

Trusts

 

Length

of Time
Served as
a Trustee3

  Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years  

Number of BlackRock-
Advised Registered
Investment Companies
(“RICs”) Consisting of

Investment Portfolios
(“Portfolios”) Overseen

 

Public

Directorships

Independent Trustees2 (concluded)                    

W. Carl Kester

 

1951

  Trustee and Member of the Audit Committee  

Since

2007

  George Fisher Baker Jr. Professor of Business Administration, Harvard Business School since 2008; Deputy Dean for Academic Affairs from 2006 to 2010; Chairman of the Finance Unit, 2005 to 2006; Senior Associate Dean and Chairman of the MBA Program from 1999 to 2005; Member of the faculty of Harvard Business School since 1981.  

79 RICs consisting of

79 Portfolios

  None
 

1    The address of each Trustee is c/o BlackRock, Inc., Park Avenue Plaza, 55 East 52nd Street, New York, NY 10055.

 

2    Independent Trustees serve until their resignation, removal or death, or until December 31 of the year in which they turn 74. The maximum age limitation may be waived as to any Trustees by action of a majority of the Trustees upon finding good cause thereof. In 2013, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved further extending the mandatory retirement age for James T. Flynn by one additional year which the Board believed would be in the best interest of shareholders. Mr. Flynn can serve until December 31 of the year in which he turns 75. Mr. Flynn turns 75 in 2014.

 

3    Date shown is the earliest date a person has served for the Trusts covered by this annual report. Following the combination of Merrill Lynch Investment Managers, L.P. (“MLIM”) and BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”) in September 2006, the various legacy MLIM and legacy BlackRock fund boards were realigned and consolidated into three new fund boards in 2007. As a result, although the chart shows certain Trustees as joining the Trusts’ board in 2007, those Trustees first became members of the boards of other legacy MLIM or legacy BlackRock funds as follows: Richard E. Cavanagh, 1994; Frank J. Fabozzi, 1988; Kathleen F. Feldstein, 2005; James T. Flynn, 1996; Jerrold B. Harris, 1999; R. Glenn Hubbard, 2004; W. Carl Kester, 1995; and Karen P. Robards, 1998.

 

4    Dr. Fabozzi is also a board member of the BlackRock Equity-Liquidity Complex.

Interested Trustees5     

Paul L. Audet

 

1953

  Trustee  

Since

2011

  Senior Managing Director of BlackRock and Head of U.S. Mutual Funds since 2011; Head of BlackRock’s Real Estate business from 2008 to 2011; Member of BlackRock’s Global Operating and Corporate Risk Management Committees since 2008; Head of BlackRock’s Global Cash Management business from 2005 to 2010; Acting Chief Financial Officer of BlackRock from 2007 to 2008; Chief Financial Officer from 1998 to 2005.  

141 RICs consisting of

329 Portfolios

  None

Henry Gabbay

 

1947

 

Trustee

 

Since

2007

  Consultant, BlackRock from 2007 to 2008; Managing Director, BlackRock from 1989 to 2007; Chief Administrative Officer, BlackRock Advisors, LLC from 1998 to 2007; President of BlackRock Funds and BlackRock Allocation Target Shares from 2005 to 2007; Treasurer of certain closed-end funds in the BlackRock fund complex from 1989 to 2006.  

141 RICs consisting of

329 Portfolios.

  None
 

5    Mr. Audet is an “interested person,” as defined in the 1940 Act, of the Trusts based on his position with BlackRock and its affiliates as well as his ownership of BlackRock securities. Mr. Gabbay is an “interested person” of the Trusts based on his former positions with BlackRock and its affiliates as well as his ownership of BlackRock and The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. securities. Mr. Audet and Mr. Gabbay are also Directors of two complexes of BlackRock registered open-end funds, the BlackRock Equity-Liquidity Complex and the BlackRock Equity-Bond Complex. Interested Trustees of the BlackRock Closed-End Complex serve until their resignation, removal or death, or until December 31 of the year in which they turn 72. The maximum age limitation may be waived as to any Trustee by action of a majority of the Trustees upon finding good cause thereof.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    83


Officers and Trustees (concluded)     

 

 

Name, Address1
and Year of Birth
  Position(s)
Held with
Trusts
  Length of
Time Served
  Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years
Officers2               

John M. Perlowski

 

1964

  President and Chief Executive Officer   Since
2011
  Managing Director of BlackRock since 2009; Global Head of BlackRock Fund Services since 2009; Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Global Product Group at Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. from 2003 to 2009; Treasurer of Goldman Sachs Mutual Funds from 2003 to 2009 and Senior Vice President thereof from 2007 to 2009; Director of Goldman Sachs Offshore Funds from 2002 to 2009; Director of Family Resource Network (charitable foundation) since 2009.

Robert W. Crothers

 

1981

  Vice
President
  Since
2012
  Director of BlackRock since 2011; Vice President of BlackRock from 2008 to 2010.

Neal Andrews

 

1966

  Chief
Financial
Officer
  Since
2007
  Managing Director of BlackRock since 2006; Senior Vice President and Line of Business Head of Fund Accounting and Administration at PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc. from 1992 to 2006.

Jay Fife

 

1970

  Treasurer   Since
2007
  Managing Director of BlackRock since 2007; Director of BlackRock in 2006; Assistant Treasurer of the MLIM and Fund Asset Management, L.P. advised funds from 2005 to 2006; Director of MLIM Fund Services Group from 2001 to 2006.

Charles Park

 

1967

  Chief Compliance Officer and Anti-Money Laundering Officer   Since
2014
  Chief Compliance Officer of BlackRock Advisors, LLC and the BlackRock-advised Funds in the Equity-Bond Complex, the Equity-Liquidity Complex and the Closed-End Complex since 2014; Principal of and Chief Compliance Officer for iShares® Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC since 2012 and BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”) since 2006; Chief Compliance Officer for the BFA-advised iShares exchange traded funds since 2006; Chief Compliance Officer for BlackRock Asset Management International Inc. since 2012.

Janey Ahn

 

1975

  Secretary   Since
2012
  Director of BlackRock since 2009; Vice President of BlackRock from 2008 to 2009; Assistant Secretary of the Funds from 2008 to 2012.
 

1    The address of each Officer is c/o BlackRock, Inc., Park Avenue Plaza, 55 East 52nd Street, New York, NY 10055.

   

2    Officers of the Trusts serve at the pleasure of the Board.

 

Effective June 13, 2014, Randy Robertson became co-portfolio manager of BIT. The other portfolio managers of BIT are Thomas Musmanno and Akiva Dickstein.

Effective September 5, 2014, Brendan Kyne resigned as a Vice President of the Trusts.

 

       

Investment Advisor

BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Wilmington, DE 19809

 

Custodian and
Accounting Agent

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Boston, MA 02110

 

Independent Registered
Public Accounting Firm

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Boston, MA 02116

 

Address of the Trusts

100 Bellevue Parkway

Wilmington, DE 19809

Sub-Advisor

BlackRock (Singapore) Limited3

079912 Singapore

 

Transfer Agent

Common Shares

Computershare Trust
Company, N.A.

Canton, MA 02021

 

Legal Counsel

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

New York, NY 10036

 

 

  3   

For BIT.

 

                
84    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Additional Information     

 

Proxy Results

The Annual Meeting of Shareholders was held on July 30, 2014 for shareholders of record on June 3, 2014, to elect trustee nominees for each Trust. There were no broker non-votes with regard to any of the Trusts.

Approved the Class I Trustees as follows:

 

     

Paul L. Audet

  

Michael J. Castellano

  

R. Glenn Hubbard

      Votes For    Votes
Withheld
   Abstain    Votes For    Votes
Withheld
   Abstain    Votes For    Votes
Withheld
   Abstain

BTZ

  

96,827,738

  

2,547,443

   0   

96,845,331

  

2,529,850

   0   

96,649,962

  

2,725,219

   0

BGT

   17,677,722   

420,602

   0   

17,694,558

  

403,766

   0   

17,696,367

  

401,957

   0

BIT

   33,441,638    315,703    0    33,463,353    293,988    0    33,457,403    299,938    0
    

W. Carl Kester

         
      Votes For    Votes
Withheld
   Abstain                              

BTZ

   96,711,047   

2,664,134

   0                  

BGT

   17,696,728    401,596    0                  

BIT

   33,432,806    324,535    0                              

For the Trusts listed above, Trustees whose term of office continued after the Annual Meeting of Shareholders because they were not up for election are Richard E. Cavanagh, Frank J. Fabozzi, Kathleen F. Feldstein, James T. Flynn, Henry Gabbay, Jerrold B. Harris and Karen P. Robards.

 

Trust Certification

Each Trust is listed for trading on the NYSE and have filed with the NYSE their annual chief executive officer certification regarding compliance with the NYSE’s listing standards. The Trusts filed with the SEC the certification of their chief executive officer and chief financial officer required by section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

 

Dividend Policy

 

Each Trust’s dividend policy is to distribute all or a portion of its net investment income to its shareholders on a monthly basis. In order to provide shareholders with a more stable level of distributions, the distributions paid by the Trusts for any particular month may be more or less than the amount of net investment income earned by the Trusts during such month. The portion of distributions that exceeds a Trust’s current and accumulated earnings and profits, which are measured on a tax basis, will constitute a nontaxable return of capital. Distributions in excess of a Trust’s taxable income and net capital gains, but not in excess of a Trust’s earnings and profits, will be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income and will not constitute a nontaxable return of capital. The Trusts’ current accumulated but undistributed net investment income, if any, is disclosed in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, which comprises part of the financial information included in this report.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    85


Additional Information (continued)     

 

 

General Information

 

The Trusts do not make available copies of their Statements of Additional Information because the Trusts’ shares are not continuously offered, which means that the Statement of Additional Information of each Trust has not been updated after completion of the respective Trust’s offerings and the information contained in each Trust’s Statement of Additional Information may have become outdated.

During the period there were no material changes in the Trusts’ investment objectives or policies or to the Trusts’ charters or by-laws that would delay or prevent a change of control of the Trusts that were not approved by the shareholders or in the principal risk factors associated with investment in the Trusts. Other than as discussed on page 80, there have been no changes in the persons who are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Trusts’ portfolios.

Quarterly performance, semi-annual and annual reports, current net asset value and other information regarding the Trusts may be found on BlackRock’s website, which can be accessed at http://www.blackrock.com. This reference to BlackRock’s website is intended to allow investors public access to information regarding the Trusts and does not, and is not intended to, incorporate BlackRock’s website in this report.

Electronic Delivery

Shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications of quarterly statements, annual and semi-annual shareholder by enrolling in the electronic delivery program. Electronic copies of shareholder reports are available on BlackRock’s website.

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts with Investment Advisors, Banks or Brokerages:

Please contact your financial advisor. Please note that not all investment advisors, banks or brokerages may offer this service.

Householding

The Trusts will mail only one copy of shareholder documents, including annual and semi-annual reports and proxy statements, to shareholders with multiple accounts at the same address. This practice is commonly called “householding” and is intended to reduce expenses and eliminate duplicate mailings of shareholder documents. Mailings of your share holder documents may be householded indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, please call the Trusts at (800) 882-0052.

Availability of Quarterly Schedule of Investments

The Trusts file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Trusts’ Forms N-Q are available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information on how to access documents on the SEC’s website without charge may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330. The Trusts’ Forms N-Q may also be obtained upon request and without charge by calling (800) 882-0052.

Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures

A description of the policies and procedures that the Trusts use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available (1) without charge, upon request, by calling (800) 882-0052; (2) at http://www.blackrock.com; and (3) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Proxy Voting Record

Information about how the Trusts voted proxies relating to securities held in the Trusts’ portfolios during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available upon request and without charge (1) at http://www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 882-0052 and (2) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Trust Updates

BlackRock will update performance and certain other data for the Trusts on a monthly basis on its website in the “Closed-end Funds” section of http://www.blackrock.com as well as certain other material information as necessary from time to time. Investors and others are advised to periodically check the website for updated performance information and the release of other material information about the Trusts. This reference to BlackRock’s website is intended to allow investors public access to information regarding the Trusts and does not, and is not intended to, incorporate BlackRock’s website in this report.

 

                
86    ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014   


Additional Information (concluded)     

 

 

Section 19(a) Notice

 

These amounts and sources of distributions reported are only estimates provided to you pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Trust’s investment experience during the year and may be subject to changes based on the tax regulations. The Trust will provide a Form 1099-DIV each calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.

 

October 31, 2014

 

    Total Cumulative Distributions
for the Fiscal  Year-to-Date
    % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative
Distributions for the Fiscal Year-to-Date
 
     Net Investment
Income
    Net Realized
Capital Gains
    Return of
Capital
    Total Per
Common Share
    Net Investment
Income
    Net Realized
Capital Gains
    Return of
Capital
    Total Per
Common Share
 

BGT1

  $ 0.828120             $ 0.013680      $ 0.841800        98     0     2     100

 

  1   

The Trust estimates that it has distributed more than the amount of earned income and net realized gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment in the Trust is returned to the shareholder. A return of capital does not necessarily reflect the Trust’s investment performance and should not be confused with ‘yield’ or ‘income.’ When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will incrementally reduce the Trust’s net asset value per share.

 

BlackRock Privacy Principles

 

BlackRock is committed to maintaining the privacy of its current and former fund investors and individual clients (collectively, “Clients”) and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information BlackRock collects, how we protect that information and why in certain cases we share such information with select parties.

If you are located in a jurisdiction where specific laws, rules or regulations require BlackRock to provide you with additional or different privacy-related rights beyond what is set forth below, then BlackRock will comply with those specific laws, rules or regulations.

BlackRock obtains or verifies personal non-public information from and about you from different sources, including the following: (i) information we receive from you or, if applicable, your financial intermediary, on applications, forms or other documents; (ii) information about your transactions with us, our affiliates, or others; (iii) information we receive from a consumer reporting agency; and (iv) from visits to our websites.

BlackRock does not sell or disclose to non-affiliated third parties any non-public personal information about its Clients, except as permitted by law or as is necessary to respond to regulatory requests or to service Client accounts. These non-affiliated third parties are required to protect the confidentiality and security of this information and to use it only for its intended purpose.

We may share information with our affiliates to service your account or to provide you with information about other BlackRock products or services that may be of interest to you. In addition, BlackRock restricts access to non-public personal information about its Clients to those BlackRock employees with a legitimate business need for the information. BlackRock maintains physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that are designed to protect the non-public personal information of its Clients, including procedures relating to the proper storage and disposal of such information.

 

                
   ANNUAL REPORT    OCTOBER 31, 2014    87


This report is transmitted to shareholders only. It is not a prospectus. Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. The Trusts have leveraged their Common Shares, which creates risk for Common Shareholders, including the likelihood of greater volatility of net asset value and market price of Common Shares, and the risk that fluctuations in short-term interest rates may reduce the Common Shares’ yield. Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject to change.

 

 

LOGO

 

CE-CAFRI-3-10/14-AR    LOGO


Item 2 –    Code of Ethics –The registrant (or the “Fund”) has adopted a code of ethics, as of the end of the period covered by this report, applicable to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. During the period covered by this report, the code of ethics was amended to update certain information and to make other non-material changes. During the period covered by this report, there have been no waivers granted under the code of ethics. A copy of the code of ethics is available without charge at www.blackrock.com.
Item 3 –    Audit Committee Financial Expert – The registrant’s board of directors (the “board of directors”), has determined that (i) the registrant has the following audit committee financial experts serving on its audit committee and (ii) each audit committee financial expert is independent:
   Michael Castellano
   Frank J. Fabozzi
   James T. Flynn
   W. Carl Kester
   Karen P. Robards
   The registrant’s board of directors has determined that W. Carl Kester and Karen P. Robards qualify as financial experts pursuant to Item 3(c)(4) of Form N-CSR.
   Prof. Kester has a thorough understanding of generally accepted accounting principles, financial statements and internal control over financial reporting as well as audit committee functions. Prof. Kester has been involved in providing valuation and other financial consulting services to corporate clients since 1978. Prof. Kester’s financial consulting services present a breadth and level of complexity of accounting issues that are generally comparable to the breadth and complexity of issues that can reasonably be expected to be raised by the registrant’s financial statements.
   Ms. Robards has a thorough understanding of generally accepted accounting principles, financial statements and internal control over financial reporting as well as audit committee functions. Ms. Robards has been President of Robards & Company, a financial advisory firm, since 1987. Ms. Robards was formerly an investment banker for more than 10 years where she was responsible for evaluating and assessing the performance of companies based on their financial results. Ms. Robards has over 30 years of experience analyzing financial statements. She also is a member of the audit committee of one publicly held company and a non-profit organization.
   Under applicable securities laws, a person determined to be an audit committee financial expert will not be deemed an “expert” for any purpose, including without limitation for the purposes of Section 11 of the Securities Act of 1933, as a result of being designated or identified as an audit committee financial expert. The designation or identification as an audit committee financial expert does not impose on such person any duties, obligations, or liabilities greater than the duties, obligations, and liabilities imposed on such person as a member of the audit committee and board of directors in the absence of such designation or identification. The designation or identification of a person as an audit committee financial expert does not affect the duties, obligations, or liability of any other member of the audit committee or board of directors.

 

2


Item 4 –   Principal Accountant Fees and Services
  The following table presents fees billed by Deloitte & Touche LLP (“D&T”) in each of the last two fiscal years for the services rendered to the Fund:

 

      (a) Audit Fees    (b) Audit-Related Fees1    (c) Tax Fees2    (d) All Other Fees3
Entity Name    Current 
Fiscal Year 
End 
   Previous 
Fiscal Year 
End 
   Current 
Fiscal Year 
End 
   Previous 
Fiscal Year 
End 
   Current 
Fiscal Year 
End 
   Previous 
Fiscal Year 
End 
   Current 
Fiscal Year 
End 
   Previous 
Fiscal Year 
End 
BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust    $65,524    $64,000    $0    $0    $45,100    $15,100    $0    $0

 

  The following table presents fees billed by D&T that were required to be approved by the registrant’s audit committee (the “Committee”) for services that relate directly to the operations or financial reporting of the Fund and that are rendered on behalf of BlackRock Advisors, LLC (“Investment Adviser” or “BlackRock”) and entities controlling, controlled by, or under common control with BlackRock (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser) that provide ongoing services to the Fund (“Fund Service Providers”):

 

     Current Fiscal Year End    Previous Fiscal Year End

(b) Audit-Related Fees1

   $0    $0

(c) Tax Fees2

   $0    $0

(d) All Other Fees3

   $2,555,000    $2,865,000

1 The nature of the services includes assurance and related services reasonably related to the performance of the audit of financial statements not included in Audit Fees.

2 The nature of the services includes tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.

3 Aggregate fees borne by BlackRock in connection with the review of compliance procedures and attestation thereto performed by D&T with respect to all of the registered closed-end funds and some of the registered open-end funds advised by BlackRock.

(e)(1) Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures:

 

The Committee has adopted policies and procedures with regard to the pre-approval of services. Audit, audit-related and tax compliance services provided to the registrant on an annual basis require specific pre-approval by the Committee. The Committee also must approve other non-audit services provided to the registrant and those non-audit services provided to the Investment Adviser and Fund Service Providers that relate directly to the operations and the financial reporting of the registrant. Certain of these non-audit services that the Committee believes are (a) consistent with the SEC’s auditor independence rules and (b) routine and recurring services that will not impair the independence of the independent accountants may be approved by the Committee without consideration on a specific case-by-case basis (“general pre-approval”). The term of any general pre-approval is 12 months from the date of the pre-approval, unless the Committee provides for a different period. Tax or other non-audit services provided to the registrant which have a direct impact on the operations or financial reporting of the registrant will only be deemed pre-approved provided that any individual project does not exceed $10,000 attributable to the registrant or $50,000 per project. For this purpose, multiple projects will be aggregated to determine if they exceed the previously mentioned cost levels.

 

Any proposed services exceeding the pre-approved cost levels will require specific pre-approval by the Committee, as will any other services not subject to general pre-approval (e.g., unanticipated but permissible services). The Committee is informed of each service approved

 

3


  subject to general pre-approval at the next regularly scheduled in-person board meeting. At this meeting, an analysis of such services is presented to the Committee for ratification. The Committee may delegate to the Committee Chairman the authority to approve the provision of and fees for any specific engagement of permitted non-audit services, including services exceeding pre-approved cost levels.
  (e)(2) None of the services described in each of Items 4(b) through (d) were approved by the Committee pursuant to the de minimis exception in paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
  (f) Not Applicable
  (g) The aggregate non-audit fees paid to the accountant for services rendered by the accountant to the registrant, the Investment Adviser and the Fund Service Providers were:

 

Entity Name   

Current Fiscal Year

End

  

Previous Fiscal Year

End

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income

Trust

   $45,100    $15,100

 

 

  Additionally, SSAE 16 Review (Formerly, SAS No. 70) fees for the current and previous fiscal years of $2,555,000 and $2,865,000, respectively, were billed by D&T to the Investment Adviser.
  (h) The Committee has considered and determined that the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the Investment Adviser, and the Fund Service Providers that were not pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence.
Item 5 –   Audit Committee of Listed Registrants
 

(a)     The following individuals are members of the registrant’s separately-designated standing audit committee established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(58)(A)):

 

Michael Castellano

Frank J. Fabozzi

James T. Flynn

W. Carl Kester

Karen P. Robards

 

(b)    Not Applicable

Item 6–

 

Investments

(a) The registrant’s Schedule of Investments is included as part of the Report to Stockholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.

  (b)Not Applicable due to no such divestments during the semi-annual period covered since the previous Form N-CSR filing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

4


Item 7 –   Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies – The board of directors has delegated the voting of proxies for the Fund’s portfolio securities to the Investment Adviser pursuant to the Investment Adviser’s proxy voting guidelines. Under these guidelines, the Investment Adviser will vote proxies related to Fund securities in the best interests of the Fund and its stockholders. From time to time, a vote may present a conflict between the interests of the Fund’s stockholders, on the one hand, and those of the Investment Adviser, or any affiliated person of the Fund or the Investment Adviser, on the other. In such event, provided that the Investment Adviser’s Equity Investment Policy Oversight Committee, or a sub-committee thereof (the “Oversight Committee”) is aware of the real or potential conflict or material non-routine matter and if the Oversight Committee does not reasonably believe it is able to follow its general voting guidelines (or if the particular proxy matter is not addressed in the guidelines) and vote impartially, the Oversight Committee may retain an independent fiduciary to advise the Oversight Committee on how to vote or to cast votes on behalf of the Investment Adviser’s clients. If the Investment Adviser determines not to retain an independent fiduciary, or does not desire to follow the advice of such independent fiduciary, the Oversight Committee shall determine how to vote the proxy after consulting with the Investment Adviser’s Portfolio Management Group and/or the Investment Adviser’s Legal and Compliance Department and concluding that the vote cast is in its client’s best interest notwithstanding the conflict. A copy of the Fund’s Proxy Voting Policy and Procedures are attached as Exhibit 99.PROXYPOL. Information on how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available without charge, (i) at www.blackrock.com and (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.
Item 8 –   Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies – as of October 31, 2014.
 

(a)(1) The Fund is managed by a team of investment professionals comprised of Akiva Dickstein, Director at BlackRock, Thomas Musmanno, CFA, Managing Director at BlackRock and Randy Robertson, Managing Director at BlackRock. Messrs. Dickstein, Musmanno and Robertson are the Fund’s portfolio managers and are responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund’s portfolio and the selection of its investments. Messrs. Dickstein and Musmanno have been members of the Fund’s portfolio management team since 2013. Mr. Robertson has been a member of the Fund’s portfolio management team since 2014.

 

Portfolio Manager    Biography
Akiva Dickstein    Managing Director of BlackRock since 2009; Managing Director of Merrill Lynch Investment Managers, L.P. from 2003 to 2009 and Head of the U.S. Rates & Structured Credit Research Group.
Thomas Musmanno, CFA    Managing Director of BlackRock since 2010; Director of BlackRock from 2006 to 2009.
Randy Robertson    Managing Director of BlackRock since 2009; Managing Director of Wachovia Capital Markets from 1999 to 2009.

 

5


(a)(2) As of October 31, 2014:

 

     

(ii) Number of Other Accounts Managed

and Assets by Account Type

  

(iii) Number of Other Accounts and

Assets for Which Advisory Fee is

Performance-Based

(i) Name of

Portfolio Manager

  

Other

Registered

Investment

Companies

  

Other Pooled

Investment

Vehicles

  

Other

Accounts

  

Other

Registered

Investment

Companies

  

Other Pooled

Investment

Vehicles

  

Other

Accounts

Akiva Dickstein

   8    26    107    0    1    3
     $4.19 Billion    $8.43 Billion    $45.94 Billion    $0    $266.0 Million    $1.21 Billion

Thomas Musmanno

   12    14    167    0    2    0
     $8.64 Billion    $4.88 Billion    $48.49 Billion    $0    $1.81 Billion    $0

Randy Robertson

   0    6    0    0    1    0
     $0    $482.0 Million    $0    $0    $14.36 Million    $0

(iv) Portfolio Manager Potential Material Conflicts of Interest

BlackRock has built a professional working environment, firm-wide compliance culture and compliance procedures and systems designed to protect against potential incentives that may favor one account over another. BlackRock has adopted policies and procedures that address the allocation of investment opportunities, execution of portfolio transactions, personal trading by employees and other potential conflicts of interest that are designed to ensure that all client accounts are treated equitably over time. Nevertheless, BlackRock furnishes investment management and advisory services to numerous clients in addition to the Fund, and BlackRock may, consistent with applicable law, make investment recommendations to other clients or accounts (including accounts which are hedge funds or have performance or higher fees paid to BlackRock, or in which portfolio managers have a personal interest in the receipt of such fees), which may be the same as or different from those made to the Fund. In addition, BlackRock, Inc., its affiliates and significant shareholders and any officer, director, shareholder or employee may or may not have an interest in the securities whose purchase and sale BlackRock recommends to the Fund. BlackRock, Inc., or any of its affiliates or significant shareholders, or any officer, director, shareholder, employee or any member of their families may take different actions than those recommended to the Fund by BlackRock with respect to the same securities. Moreover, BlackRock may refrain from rendering any advice or services concerning securities of companies of which any of BlackRock, Inc.’s (or its affiliates’ or significant shareholders’) officers, directors or employees are directors or officers, or companies as to which BlackRock, Inc. or any of its affiliates or significant shareholders or the officers, directors and employees of any of them has any substantial economic interest or possesses material non-public information. Certain portfolio managers also may manage accounts whose investment strategies may at times be opposed to the strategy utilized for a fund. It should also be noted that Messrs. Dickstein and Robertson may be managing hedge fund and/or long only accounts, or may be part of a team managing hedge fund and/or long only accounts, subject to incentive fees. Messrs. Dickstein and Robertson may therefore be entitled to receive a portion of any incentive fees earned on such accounts.

As a fiduciary, BlackRock owes a duty of loyalty to its clients and must treat each client fairly. When BlackRock purchases or sells securities for more than one account, the trades must be allocated in a manner consistent with its fiduciary duties. BlackRock attempts to allocate investments in a fair and equitable manner among client accounts, with no account receiving preferential treatment. To this end, BlackRock, Inc. has adopted policies that are intended to ensure reasonable efficiency in client transactions and provide BlackRock with sufficient flexibility to allocate investments in a manner that is consistent with the particular investment discipline and client base, as appropriate.

 

6


(a)(3) As of October 31, 2014:

Portfolio Manager Compensation Overview

The discussion below describes the portfolio managers’ compensation as of October 31, 2014.

BlackRock’s financial arrangements with its portfolio managers, its competitive compensation and its career path emphasis at all levels reflect the value senior management places on key resources. Compensation may include a variety of components and may vary from year to year based on a number of factors. The principal components of compensation include a base salary, a performance-based discretionary bonus, participation in various benefits programs and one or more of the incentive compensation programs established by BlackRock.

Base compensation. Generally, portfolio managers receive base compensation based on their position with the firm.

Discretionary Incentive Compensation

Discretionary incentive compensation is a function of several components: the performance of BlackRock, Inc., the performance of the portfolio manager’s group within BlackRock, the investment performance, including risk-adjusted returns, of the firm’s assets under management or supervision by that portfolio manager relative to predetermined benchmarks, and the individual’s performance and contribution to the overall performance of these portfolios and BlackRock. In most cases, these benchmarks are the same as the benchmark or benchmarks against which the performance of the Funds or other accounts managed by the portfolio managers are measured. Among other things, BlackRock’s Chief Investment Officers make a subjective determination with respect to each portfolio manager’s compensation based on the performance of the funds and other accounts managed by each portfolio manager relative to the various benchmarks. Performance of fixed income funds is measured on a pre-tax and/or after-tax basis over various time periods including 1-, 3- and 5- year periods, as applicable. With respect to these portfolio managers, such benchmarks for the Fund and other accounts are:

 

Portfolio Manager    Benchmark
Akiva Dickstein   

A combination of market-based indices (e.g. Citigroup Mortgage Index, Barclays GNMA MBS Index), certain customized indices and certain fund industry peer groups.

 

Thomas Musmanno, CFA      A combination of market-based indices (e.g., Bank of America Merrill Lynch U.S. Corporate & Government Index, 1-3 Years), certain customized indices and certain fund industry peer groups.

Randy Robertson

 

  

No Benchmarks

 

Distribution of Discretionary Incentive Compensation. Discretionary incentive compensation is distributed to portfolio managers in a combination of cash and BlackRock, Inc. restricted stock units which vest ratably over a number of years. For some portfolio managers, discretionary incentive compensation is also distributed in deferred cash awards that notionally track the returns of select BlackRock investment products they manage and that vest ratably over a number of years. The BlackRock, Inc. restricted stock units, upon vesting, will be settled in BlackRock, Inc. common stock. Typically, the cash portion of the discretionary incentive compensation, when combined with base salary, represents more than 60% of total compensation for

 

7


the portfolio managers. Paying a portion of discretionary incentive compensation in BlackRock, Inc. stock puts compensation earned by a portfolio manager for a given year “at risk” based on BlackRock’s ability to sustain and improve its performance over future periods. Providing a portion of discretionary incentive compensation in deferred cash awards that notionally track the BlackRock investment products they manage provides direct alignment with investment product results.

Long-Term Incentive Plan Awards — From time to time long-term incentive equity awards are granted to certain key employees to aid in retention, align their interests with long-term shareholder interests and motivate performance. Equity awards are generally granted in the form of BlackRock, Inc. restricted stock units that, once vested, settle in BlackRock, Inc. common stock. Messrs. Dickstein, Musmanno and Robertson have unvested long-term incentive awards.

Deferred Compensation Program — A portion of the compensation paid to eligible United States-based BlackRock employees may be voluntarily deferred at their election for defined periods of time into an account that tracks the performance of certain of the firm’s investment products. Any portfolio manager who is either a managing director or director at BlackRock with compensation above a specified threshold is eligible to participate in the deferred compensation program.

Other Compensation Benefits. In addition to base salary and discretionary incentive compensation, portfolio managers may be eligible to receive or participate in one or more of the following:

Incentive Savings Plans — BlackRock, Inc. has created a variety of incentive savings plans in which BlackRock, Inc. employees are eligible to participate, including a 401(k) plan, the BlackRock Retirement Savings Plan (RSP), and the BlackRock Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP). The employer contribution components of the RSP include a company match equal to 50% of the first 8% of eligible pay contributed to the plan capped at $5,000 per year, and a company retirement contribution equal to 3-5% of eligible compensation up to the Internal Revenue Service limit ($260,000 for 2014). The RSP offers a range of investment options, including registered investment companies and collective investment funds managed by the firm. BlackRock, Inc. contributions follow the investment direction set by participants for their own contributions or, absent participant investment direction, are invested into a target date fund that corresponds to, or is closest to, the year in which the participant attains age 65. The ESPP allows for investment in BlackRock, Inc. common stock at a 5% discount on the fair market value of the stock on the purchase date. Annual participation in the ESPP is limited to the purchase of 1,000 shares of common stock or a dollar value of $25,000 based on its fair market value on the purchase date. All of the eligible portfolio managers are eligible to participate in these plans.

(a)(4) Beneficial Ownership of Securities – As of October 31, 2014.

 

Portfolio Manager   

Dollar Range of Equity Securities

of the Fund Beneficially Owned

Akiva Dickstein    $1 - $10,000
Thomas Musmanno    $10,001 - $50,000
Randy Robertson    None

 

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   (b) Not Applicable
Item 9 –    Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers – Not Applicable due to no such purchases during the period covered by this report.
Item 10 –    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders – There have been no material changes to these procedures.
Item 11 –    Controls and Procedures
   (a) – The registrant’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”)) are effective as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report based on the evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act and Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
   (b) – There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act) that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Item 12 –    Exhibits attached hereto
  

(a)(1) – Code of Ethics – See Item 2

 

(a)(2) – Certifications – Attached hereto

 

(a)(3) – Not Applicable

 

(b) – Certifications – Attached hereto

 

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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust

 

By:   /s/ John M. Perlowski                    
  John M. Perlowski
  Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) of
  BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust
Date:   January 2, 2015

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By:   /s/ John M. Perlowski                    
  John M. Perlowski
  Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) of
  BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust
Date:   January 2, 2015
By:   /s/ Neal J. Andrews                        
  Neal J. Andrews
  Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer) of
  BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust
Date:   January 2, 2015

 

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