Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc. (NYSE: NTG) offers a closed-end fund strategy of investing in energy infrastructure MLPs and their affiliates, with an emphasis on natural gas infrastructure MLPs.
Investment Focus
NTG seeks to provide stockholders with a high level of total return with an emphasis on current distributions. The fund focuses primarily on midstream energy infrastructure MLPs that engage in the business of transporting, gathering and processing and storing natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGLs).
Under normal circumstances, we invest at least 80 percent of NTGs total assets in MLP equity securities with at least 70 percent of total assets in natural gas infrastructure MLP equity securities. Of the total assets in the fund, we may invest as much as 50 percent in restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in securities of listed companies. We do not invest in privately held companies and limit our investment in any one security to 10 percent.
About Energy Infrastructure Master Limited Partnerships
MLPs are limited partnerships whose units trade on public exchanges such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the NYSE Alternext US and NASDAQ. Buying MLP units makes an investor a limited partner in the MLP. There are currently more than 70 MLPs in the market, mostly in industries related to energy and natural resources.
We primarily invest in MLPs and their affiliates in the energy infrastructure sector, with an emphasis on natural gas infrastructure MLPs. Energy infrastructure MLPs are engaged in the transportation, storage and processing of crude oil, natural gas and refined products from production points to the end users. Natural gas infrastructure MLPs are companies in which over 50 percent of their revenue, cash flow or assets are related to the operation of natural gas or NGL infrastructure assets. Our investments are primarily in midstream (mostly pipeline) operations, which typically produce steady cash flows with less exposure to commodity prices than many alternative investments in the broader energy industry. With the growth potential of this sector along with our disciplined investment approach, we endeavor to generate a predictable and increasing distribution stream for our investors.
An NTG Investment Versus a Direct Investment in MLPs
We provide our stockholders an alternative to investing directly in MLPs and their affiliates. A direct MLP investment potentially offers an attractive distribution with a significant portion treated as return of capital, and a historically low correlation to returns on stocks and bonds. However, the tax characteristics of a direct MLP investment are generally undesirable for tax-exempt investors such as retirement plans. We are structured as a C Corporation accruing federal and state income taxes based on taxable earnings and profits. Because of this innovative structure, pioneered by Tortoise Capital Advisors, institutions and retirement accounts are able to join individual stockholders as investors in MLPs.
Additional features include:
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March 25, 2012
Dear Fellow Stockholders,
The energy infrastructure sector achieved attractive returns in our first fiscal quarter ended Feb. 29, 2012, as distribution growth expectations accelerated and the broader markets rallied on an improved outlook. In this historically low interest rate environment, we believe investors continue to search for yield, with MLPs providing an attractive solution.
The fiscal quarter highlighted how midstream MLPs can benefit from the steady and predictable nature of their underlying fundamentals. Unseasonably warm winter weather throughout the United States pushed natural gas prices to their lowest level in a decade; however, natural gas pipeline MLPs remained steady as a result of fee-based contracts utilizing reservation charges.
Master Limited Partnership Sector Review
During our first fiscal quarter, the Tortoise MLP Total Return Index® (TMLPT) had a total return of 11.9 percent, outperforming the S&P 500 index total return of 10.1 percent during the same period. Pipeline MLPs were among the strongest performers in the fiscal quarter, as evidenced by the Tortoise Long-Haul Pipeline MLP Indexs total return of 13.9 percent.
Natural gas prices dropped to their lowest level in a decade, benefiting power companies by reducing their input costs. We expect to continue to see coal plant retirements, driven by environmental factors as well as the low relative price of natural gas to coal. In addition, we believe that the high economic returns earned by producers of natural gas liquids will continue to increase the need for pipeline infrastructure to gather and transport volumes throughout the United States.
Capital markets remain supportive as MLPs raised approximately $6.8 billion in equity and $8.9 billion in debt in the first fiscal quarter, including the launch of four new MLP initial public offerings. Substantial organic growth projects as well as $9.2 billion in acquisitions took hold, supporting our estimate of 6 percent to 8 percent distribution growth during fiscal year 2012.
Fund Performance Review
Our total assets increased from $1.6 billion on Nov. 30, 2011, to more than $1.7 billion as of the first fiscal quarter end, resulting primarily from market appreciation of our investments. Our market-based total return was 8.1 percent and our NAV-based total return was 9.4 percent (both including the reinvestment of distributions) for the first fiscal quarter.
Our performance was positively impacted by natural gas and natural gas liquids pipeline MLPs that delivered strong results and announced new forthcoming growth projects. Additionally, we completed two direct placement investments in Energy Transfer Equity, L.P. and Buckeye Partners, L.P., totaling approximately $25 million during the quarter.
We paid a distribution of $0.4125 per common share ($1.65 annualized) to our stockholders on March 1, 2012, unchanged from the previous quarter. This distribution represented an annualized yield of 6.2 percent based on our fiscal quarter closing price of $26.45. Our distribution coverage (distributable cash flow divided by distributions) for the fiscal quarter was 100.5 percent. We will provide our expectations for tax characterization of NTGs 2012 distributions later in the year. A final determination of the characterization will be made in January 2013.
We ended our first fiscal quarter with leverage (including bank debt, senior notes and preferred stock) at 20.5 percent of total assets, and with a weighted average maturity of 5.9 years, a weighted average cost of 3.7 percent, and over 85 percent at fixed rates. We continue to believe a primarily fixed-rate strategy with laddered maturities enhances the predictability and sustainability of our distributable cash flow across multiple interest rate environments.
Additional information about our financial performance is available in the Key Financial Data and Managements Discussion sections of this report.
Conclusion
Please join us for our annual stockholders meeting on May 24, 2012 at 10 a.m. central time at our offices located at 11550 Ash St., Suite 300, in Leawood, Kan. If you are unable to attend the meeting, you can join us via our web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.
Sincerely,
The Managing Directors
Tortoise
Capital Advisors, L.L.C.
The adviser
to Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
H. Kevin Birzer | Zachary A. Hamel | Kenneth P. Malvey |
Terry Matlack | David J. Schulte |
(Unaudited)
2012 1st Quarter Report 1
Key Financial Data (Supplemental Unaudited Information) (dollar amounts in thousands unless otherwise indicated) |
The information presented below regarding Distributable Cash Flow and Selected Operating Ratios is supplemental non-GAAP financial information, which we believe is meaningful to understanding our operating performance. The Selected Operating Ratios are the functional equivalent of EBITDA for non-investment companies, and we believe they are an important supplemental measure of performance and promote comparisons from period-to-period. Supplemental non-GAAP measures should be read in conjunction with our full financial statements.
2011 | 2012 | |||||||||||||||
Q1(1) | Q2(1) | Q3(1) | Q4(1) | Q1(1) | ||||||||||||
Total Income from Investments | ||||||||||||||||
Distributions received from master limited
partnerships |
$ | 24,415 | $ | 24,035 | $ | 24,081 | $ | 24,030 | $ | 24,217 | ||||||
Dividends paid in stock | 1,042 | 1,538 | 1,511 | 1,543 | 1,635 | |||||||||||
Interest and dividend income | | | | | | |||||||||||
Other income | 200 | 80 | | | | |||||||||||
Total from investments | 25,657 | 25,653 | 25,592 | 25,573 | 25,852 | |||||||||||
Operating
Expenses Before Leverage
Costs and Current Taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Advisory fees, net of expense reimbursement | 2,736 | 2,885 | 2,789 | 2,825 | 3,107 | |||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 349 | 381 | 352 | 359 | 286 | |||||||||||
3,085 | 3,266 | 3,141 | 3,184 | 3,393 | ||||||||||||
Distributable cash flow before leverage
costs and current taxes |
22,572 | 22,387 | 22,451 | 22,389 | 22,459 | |||||||||||
Leverage costs(2) | 3,330 | 3,412 | 3,438 | 3,372 | 3,401 | |||||||||||
Current income tax expense | 12 | 7 | 7 | 2 | | |||||||||||
Distributable Cash Flow(3) | $ | 19,230 | $ | 18,968 | $ | 19,006 | $ | 19,015 | $ | 19,058 | ||||||
Distributions paid on common stock | $ | 18,502 | $ | 18,502 | $ | 18,693 | $ | 18,883 | $ | 18,954 | ||||||
Distributions paid on common stock per share | 0.4075 | 0.4075 | 0.4100 | 0.4125 | 0.4125 | |||||||||||
Payout coverage ratio(4) | 103.9 | % | 102.5 | % | 101.7 | % | 100.7 | % | 100.5 | % | ||||||
Net realized gain (loss), net of
income taxes, for the period |
9,458 | 6,453 | 1,228 | 1,691 | (5,314 | ) | ||||||||||
Total assets, end of period | 1,678,362 | 1,580,414 | 1,521,935 | 1,566,608 | 1,731,580 | |||||||||||
Average total assets during period(5) | 1,603,721 | 1,656,212 | 1,568,210 | 1,537,375 | 1,664,967 | |||||||||||
Leverage(6) | 348,200 | 347,300 | 345,000 | 355,100 | 355,700 | |||||||||||
Leverage as a percent of total assets | 20.7 | % | 22.0 | % | 22.7 | % | 22.7 | % | 20.5 | % | ||||||
Net unrealized appreciation, end of period | 156,883 | 106,542 | 77,527 | 121,871 | 237,227 | |||||||||||
Net assets, end of period | 1,208,832 | 1,140,822 | 1,095,414 | 1,127,592 | 1,214,853 | |||||||||||
Average net assets during period(7) | 1,164,610 | 1,177,775 | 1,120,242 | 1,101,261 | 1,188,060 | |||||||||||
Net asset value per common share | 26.62 | 25.13 | 24.03 | 24.54 | 26.44 | |||||||||||
Market value per common share | 25.14 | 25.70 | 24.41 | 24.84 | 26.45 | |||||||||||
Shares outstanding | 45,404,188 | 45,404,188 | 45,593,328 | 45,949,783 | 45,949,783 | |||||||||||
Selected Operating Ratios(8) | ||||||||||||||||
As a Percent of Average Total Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Total distributions received from investments | 6.49 | % | 6.15 | % | 6.47 | % | 6.67 | % | 6.24 | % | ||||||
Operating expenses before leverage costs
and current taxes |
0.78 | % | 0.78 | % | 0.79 | % | 0.83 | % | 0.82 | % | ||||||
Distributable cash flow before leverage
costs and current taxes |
5.71 | % | 5.37 | % | 5.68 | % | 5.84 | % | 5.42 | % | ||||||
As a Percent of Average Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
Distributable cash flow(3) | 6.70 | % | 6.39 | % | 6.73 | % | 6.93 | % | 6.45 | % |
(1) | Q1 is the period from December through February. Q2 is the period from March through May. Q3 is the period from June through August. Q4 is the period from September through November. |
(2) | Leverage costs include interest expense, distributions to preferred stockholders and other recurring leverage expenses. |
(3) | Net investment loss, before income taxes on the Statement of Operations is adjusted as follows to reconcile to Distributable Cash Flow (DCF): increased by the return of capital on MLP distributions, the value of paid-in-kind distributions, implied distributions included in direct placement discounts, and amortization of debt issuance costs; and decreased by current taxes paid on net investment income. |
(4) | Distributable Cash Flow as a percentage of distributions paid. |
(5) | Computed by averaging month-end values within each period. |
(6) | Leverage consists of long-term debt obligations, preferred stock and short-term borrowings. |
(7) | Computed by averaging daily values for the period. |
(8) | Annualized for periods less than one full year. |
2 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Managements Discussion (Unaudited) |
The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with our Financial Statements and the Notes thereto. In addition, this report contains certain forward-looking statements. These statements include the plans and objectives of management for future operations and financial objectives and can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as may, will, expect, intend, anticipate, estimate, or continue or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Certain factors that could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements are set forth in the Risk Factors section of our public filings with the SEC.
Overview
Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.s (NTG) primary investment objective is to provide a high level of total return with an emphasis on current distributions paid to stockholders. We seek to provide our stockholders with an efficient vehicle to invest in a portfolio consisting primarily of energy infrastructure master limited partnerships (MLPs) and their affiliates, with an emphasis on natural gas infrastructure. Energy infrastructure MLPs own and operate a network of pipeline and energy-related logistical assets that transport, store, gather and process natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGLs), crude oil, refined petroleum products, and other resources or distribute, market, explore, develop or produce such commodities. Natural gas infrastructure MLPs are defined as companies engaged in such activities with over 50 percent of their revenue, cash flow or assets related to natural gas or NGL infrastructure assets.
While we are a registered investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), we are not a regulated investment company for federal tax purposes. Our distributions do not generate unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) and our stock may therefore be suitable for holding by pension funds, IRAs and mutual funds, as well as taxable accounts. We invest primarily in MLPs through private and public market purchases. MLPs are publicly traded partnerships whose equity interests are traded in the form of units on public exchanges, such as the NYSE or NASDAQ. We completed our initial public offering and commenced operations on July 30, 2010. Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. serves as our investment adviser.
Company Update
Total assets increased approximately $165 million during the 1st quarter primarily as a result of higher market values of our MLP investments. Distribution increases from our MLP investments were in-line with our expectations, asset-based expenses increased while other operating expenses decreased from the previous quarter. Total leverage as a percent of total assets decreased and we maintained our quarterly distribution of $0.4125 per share. Additional information on these events and results of our operations are discussed in more detail below.
Critical Accounting Policies
The financial statements are based on the selection and application of critical accounting policies, which require management to make significant estimates and assumptions. Critical accounting policies are those that are both important to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations and require managements most difficult, complex, or subjective judgments. Our critical accounting policies are those applicable to the valuation of investments and certain revenue recognition matters as discussed in Note 2 in the Notes to Financial Statements.
Determining Distributions to Stockholders
Our portfolio generates cash flow from which we pay distributions to stockholders. Our Board of Directors has adopted a policy of declaring what it believes to be sustainable distributions. In determining distributions, our Board of Directors considers a number of current anticipated factors, including, among others; distributable cash flow; realized and unrealized gains; leverage amounts and rates; current and deferred taxes payable; and potential volatility in returns from our investments and the overall market. Over the long term, we expect to distribute substantially all of our DCF to holders of common stock. Our Board of Directors reviews the distribution rate quarterly, and may adjust the quarterly distribution throughout the year.
Determining DCF
DCF is distributions received from investments, less expenses. The total distributions received from our investments include the amount we receive as cash distributions from MLPs, paid-in-kind distributions, and dividend and interest payments. The total expenses include current or anticipated operating expenses, leverage costs and current income taxes (excluding taxes generated from realized gains), if any. Realized gains, expected tax benefits and deferred taxes are not included in our DCF.
The Key Financial Data table discloses the calculation of DCF and should be read in conjunction with this discussion. The difference between distributions received from investments in the DCF calculation and total investment income as reported in the Statement of Operations, is reconciled as follows: the Statement of Operations, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), recognizes distribution income from MLPs and common stock on their ex-dates, whereas the DCF calculation reflects distribution income on their pay dates; GAAP recognizes that a significant portion of the cash distributions received from MLPs are characterized as a return of capital and therefore excluded from investment income, whereas the DCF calculation includes the return of capital; and distributions received from investments in the DCF calculation include the value of dividends paid-in-kind (additional stock or MLP units), whereas such amounts are not included as income for GAAP purposes, and includes distributions related to direct investments when the purchase price is reduced in lieu of receiving cash distributions. The treatment of expenses in the
2012 1st Quarter Report 3
Managements Discussion (Unaudited) (Continued) |
DCF calculation also differs from what is reported in the Statement of Operations. In addition to the total operating expenses, including expense reimbursement, as disclosed in the Statement of Operations, the DCF calculation reflects interest expense, distributions to preferred stockholders, other recurring leverage expenses, as well as current taxes paid on net investment income. A reconciliation of Net Investment Loss, before Income Taxes to DCF is included below.
Distributions Received from Investments
Our ability to generate cash is dependent on the ability of our portfolio of investments to generate cash flow from their operations. In order to maintain and grow distributions to our stockholders, we evaluate each holding based upon its contribution to our investment income, our expectation for its growth rate, and its risk relative to other potential investments.
We concentrate on MLPs we believe can expect an increasing demand for services from economic and population growth. We seek well-managed businesses with hard assets and stable recurring revenue streams. Our focus remains primarily on investing in fee-based service providers that operate long-haul, interstate pipelines. We further diversify among issuers, geographies and energy commodities to seek a distribution payment which approximates an investment directly in energy infrastructure MLPs. In addition, many energy infrastructure companies are regulated and currently benefit from a tariff inflation escalation index of PPI + 2.65 percent. Over the long-term, we believe MLPs distributions will outpace inflation and interest rate increases, and produce positive real returns.
Total distributions received from our investments for the 1st quarter 2012 was approximately $25.9 million, an increase of 1.1 percent as compared to 4th quarter 2011. On an annualized basis, total distributions for the quarter equates to 6.24 percent of our average total assets for the quarter. Total distributions received for the 1st quarter 2012 reflect increases in per share distribution rates on our MLP investments and the distributions received from additional investments funded from leverage proceeds, offset by the impact of trading activity wherein certain investments with higher current yields and lower expected future growth were sold and replaced with investments that had lower current yields and higher expected future growth.
Expenses
We incur two types of expenses: (1) operating expenses, consisting primarily of the advisory fee, and (2) leverage costs. On a percentage basis, operating expenses before leverage costs were an annualized 0.82 percent of average total assets for the 1st quarter 2012, a slight decrease as compared to the 4th quarter 2011 and a slight increase as compared to 1st quarter 2011. While the contractual advisory fee is 0.95 percent of average monthly managed assets, the Adviser waived an amount equal to 0.25 percent of average monthly managed assets through July 27, 2011. In addition, the Adviser has agreed to waive an amount equal to 0.20 percent of average managed assets from July 28, 2011 through December 31, 2012, with further reductions in the fee waiver of 0.05 percent of average managed assets per calendar year through 2015. Other operating expenses decreased approximately $73,000 as compared to 4th quarter 2011, primarily due to reduced estimated franchise taxes.
Leverage costs consist of two major components: (1) the direct interest expense on our senior notes and short-term credit facility, and (2) distributions to preferred stockholders. Other leverage expenses include rating agency fees and commitment fees. Total leverage costs for DCF purposes increased approximately $29,000 as compared to the 4th quarter 2011 as a result of higher utilization of our bank credit facility.
The weighted average annual rate of our leverage at February 29, 2012 was 3.73 percent including balances on our bank credit facility which accrue interest at a variable rate equal to one-month LIBOR plus 1.25 percent. Our weighted average rate may vary in future periods as a result of changes in LIBOR, the utilization of our credit facility, and as our leverage matures or is redeemed. Additional information on our leverage is included in the Liquidity and Capital Resources discussion below.
Distributable Cash Flow
For 1st quarter 2012, our DCF was approximately $19.1 million, a decrease of 0.9 percent as compared to 1st quarter 2011 and an increase of 0.2 percent as compared to 4th quarter 2011. The changes are the net result of changes in distributions and expenses as outlined above. We declared a distribution of $19.0 million, or $0.4125 per share, during the quarter. This represents an increase of $0.005 per share as compared to 1st quarter 2011 and is unchanged from 4th quarter 2011.
Beginning with this 1st quarter 2012 report, we now disclose our earned DCF as a payout coverage ratio of distributions declared (DCF divided by distributions paid on common stock). This presentation is the inverse of our previous metric of DCF payout percentage (distributions paid divided by DCF). Our payout coverage ratio was 100.5 percent for 1st quarter 2012, compared to a payout coverage ratio of 100.7 percent for 4th quarter 2011. Our goal is to pay what we believe to be sustainable distributions with any increases safely covered by earned DCF. A payout coverage ratio of greater than 100 percent provides flexibility for on-going management of the portfolio, changes in leverage costs and other expenses. An on-going payout coverage ratio of less than 100 percent will, over time, erode the earning power of a portfolio and may lead to lower distributions or portfolio managers taking on more risk than they otherwise would.
Net investment loss before income taxes on the Statement of Operations is adjusted as follows to reconcile to DCF for 1st quarter 2012 (in thousands):
1st Qtr 2012 | ||||||
Net Investment Loss, before Income Taxes | $ | (5,481 | ) | |||
Adjustments to reconcile to DCF: | ||||||
Dividends paid in stock | 1,635 | |||||
Distributions characterized as return of capital | 22,808 | |||||
Amortization of debt issuance costs | 96 | |||||
DCF | $ | 19,058 |
4 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Managements Discussion (Unaudited) (Continued) |
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We had total assets of $1.732 billion at quarter-end. Our total assets reflect the value of our investments, which are itemized in the Schedule of Investments. It also reflects cash, interest and dividends receivable and any expenses that may have been prepaid. During 1st quarter 2012, total assets increased $165 million. This change was primarily the result of a $151 million increase in the value of our investments as reflected by the change in net realized and unrealized gains on investments (excluding return of capital on distributions), net purchases of approximately $15.5 million and a decrease in receivables for investments sold of $1.6 million.
Total leverage outstanding at February 29, 2012 was $355.7 million, a slight increase as compared to November 30, 2011. On an adjusted basis to reflect payment of our 1st quarter 2012 distribution, the increase is approximately $16.8 million. These additional leverage proceeds were used to fund two direct placements totaling $24.7 million during the quarter, with the remaining funding coming from sales of portfolio securities. Outstanding leverage is comprised of $255 million in senior notes, $90 million in preferred shares and $10.7 million outstanding under the credit facility, with 85.7 percent of leverage with fixed rates and a weighted average maturity of 5.9 years. Total leverage represented 20.5 percent of total assets at February 29, 2012, as compared to 22.7 percent as of November 30, 2011 and 20.7 percent as of February 28, 2011. Our leverage as a percent of total assets remains below our long-term target level of 25 percent, allowing the opportunity to add leverage when compelling investment opportunities arise. Temporary increases to up to 30 percent of our total assets may be permitted, provided that such leverage is consistent with the limits set forth in the 1940 Act, and that such leverage is expected to be reduced over time in an orderly fashion to reach our long-term target. Our leverage ratio is impacted by increases or decreases in MLP values, issuance of equity and/or the sale of securities where proceeds are used to reduce leverage.
Our longer-term leverage (excluding our bank credit facility) of $345 million is comprised of 74 percent private placement debt and 26 percent private placement preferred equity with a weighted average rate of 3.77 percent and remaining weighted average laddered maturity of approximately 6.1 years.
We use leverage to acquire MLPs consistent with our investment philosophy. The terms of our leverage are governed by regulatory and contractual asset coverage requirements that arise from the use of leverage. Additional information on our leverage and asset coverage requirements is discussed in Note 9 and Note 10 in the Notes to Financial Statements. Our coverage ratios are updated each week on our Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.
Taxation of our Distributions and Deferred Taxes
We invest in partnerships that generally have cash distributions in excess of their income for accounting and tax purposes. Accordingly, the distributions include a return of capital component for accounting and tax purposes. Distributions declared and paid by us in a year generally differ from taxable income for that year, as such distributions may include the distribution of current year taxable income or return of capital.
The taxability of the distribution you receive depends on whether we have annual earnings and profits (E&P). E&P is primarily comprised of the taxable income from MLPs with certain specified adjustments as reported on annual K-1s, fund operating expenses and net realized gains. If we have E&P, it is first allocated to the preferred shares and then to the common shares.
In the event we have E&P allocated to our common shares, all or a portion of our distribution will be taxable at the 15 percent Qualified Dividend Income (QDI) rate, assuming various holding requirements are met by the stockholder. The portion of our distribution that is taxable may vary for either of two reasons: first, the characterization of the distributions we receive from MLPs could change annually based upon the K-1 allocations and result in less return of capital and more in the form of income. Second, we could sell an MLP investment and realize a gain or loss at any time. It is for these reasons that we inform you of the tax treatment after the close of each year as the ultimate characterization of our distributions is undeterminable until the year is over.
The portion of our distribution that is not income is treated as a return of capital. A holder of our common stock will reduce their cost basis for income tax purposes by the amount designated as return of capital. For tax purposes, the distribution to common stockholders for the fiscal year ended 2011 was 100 percent return of capital. A holder of our common stock would reduce their cost basis for income tax purposes by an amount equal to the total distributions they received in 2011. This information is reported to stockholders on Form 1099-DIV and is available on our Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com. For book purposes, the source of the distribution to common stockholders for the fiscal year ended 2011 was 100 percent return of capital.
The unrealized gain or loss we have in the portfolio is reflected in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. At February 29, 2012, our investments are valued at approximately $1.727 billion, with an adjusted cost of $1.353 billion. The $374.8 million difference reflects unrealized gain that would be realized for financial statement purposes if those investments were sold at those values. The Statement of Assets and Liabilities also reflects either a net deferred tax liability or net deferred tax asset depending upon unrealized gains (losses) on investments, realized gains (losses) on investments, capital loss carryforwards and net operating losses. At February 29, 2012, the balance sheet reflects a net deferred tax liability of approximately $136 million or $2.97 per share. Accordingly, our net asset value per share represents the amount which would be available for distribution to stockholders after payment of taxes. Details of our deferred taxes are disclosed in Note 5 in our Notes to Financial Statements.
As of November 30, 2011, we had approximately $29 million in capital loss carryforwards and $234 million in net operating losses. To the extent we have taxable income that is not offset by either capital loss carryforwards or net operating losses, we will owe federal and state income taxes. Tax payments can be funded from investment earnings, fund assets or borrowings. Details of our taxes are disclosed in Note 5 in our Notes to Financial Statements.
2012 1st Quarter Report 5
Schedule of Investments February 29, 2012 |
(Unaudited) | ||||||
Shares | Fair Value | |||||
Master Limited Partnerships | ||||||
and Related Companies 142.2%(1) | ||||||
Natural Gas/Natural Gas Liquids Pipelines 85.2%(1) | ||||||
United States 85.2%(1) | ||||||
Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP | 3,523,800 | $ | 95,741,646 | |||
El Paso Pipeline Partners, L.P. | 3,720,900 | 136,445,403 | ||||
Energy Transfer Equity, L.P. | 446,621 | 19,423,547 | ||||
Energy Transfer Partners, L.P. | 2,893,600 | 137,156,640 | ||||
Enterprise Products Partners L.P. | 2,907,600 | 150,846,288 | ||||
Inergy Midstream, L.P. | 413,200 | 8,755,708 | ||||
ONEOK Partners, L.P. | 1,534,797 | 89,325,185 | ||||
PAA Natural Gas Storage, L.P. | 338,938 | 6,507,610 | ||||
Regency Energy Partners LP | 4,520,433 | 119,791,475 | ||||
Spectra Energy Partners, LP | 2,704,180 | 89,210,898 | ||||
TC PipeLines, LP | 858,200 | 39,854,808 | ||||
Williams Partners L.P. | 2,289,800 | 142,448,458 | ||||
1,035,507,666 | ||||||
Natural Gas Gathering/Processing 30.4%(1) | ||||||
United States 30.4%(1) | ||||||
Chesapeake Midstream Partners, L.P. | 1,140,000 | 32,558,400 | ||||
Copano Energy, L.L.C. | 1,646,300 | 61,209,434 | ||||
Crestwood Midstream Partners LP(2) | 1,439,705 | 41,521,092 | ||||
DCP Midstream Partners, LP | 1,259,900 | 61,357,130 | ||||
MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P. | 1,050,400 | 62,824,424 | ||||
Targa Resources Partners LP | 1,465,300 | 62,348,515 | ||||
Western Gas Partners LP | 1,040,131 | 47,627,599 | ||||
369,446,594 | ||||||
Crude/Refined Products Pipelines 25.5%(1) | ||||||
United States 25.5%(1) | ||||||
Buckeye Partners, L.P. | 1,055,828 | 63,138,514 | ||||
Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P. | 1,728,900 | 56,275,695 | ||||
Holly Energy Partners, L.P. | 735,300 | 45,022,419 | ||||
Kinder Morgan Management, LLC(2) | 822,978 | 65,978,110 | ||||
NuStar Energy L.P. | 631,500 | 38,395,200 | ||||
Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. | 487,400 | 40,307,980 | ||||
309,117,918 | ||||||
Propane Distribution 1.1%(1) | ||||||
United States 1.1%(1) | ||||||
Inergy, L.P. | 758,800 | 13,248,648 | ||||
Total Master Limited Partnerships and | ||||||
Related Companies (Cost $1,352,472,245) | 1,727,320,826 | |||||
Short-Term Investment 0.0%(1) | ||||||
United States Investment Company 0.0%(1) | ||||||
Fidelity Institutional Money Market Portfolio | ||||||
Class I, 0.21%(3) (Cost $114,707) | 114,707 | 114,707 | ||||
Total Investments 142.2%(1) | ||||||
(Cost $1,352,586,952) | 1,727,435,533 | |||||
Other Assets and Liabilities (13.8%)(1) | (167,582,970 | ) | ||||
Long-Term Debt Obligations (21.0%)(1) | (255,000,000 | ) | ||||
Mandatory Redeemable Preferred Stock | ||||||
at Liquidation Value (7.4%)(1) | (90,000,000 | ) | ||||
Total Net Assets Applicable to | ||||||
Common Stockholders 100.0%(1) | $ | 1,214,852,563 |
(1) | Calculated as a percentage of net assets applicable to common stockholders. |
(2) | Security distributions are paid-in-kind. |
(3) | Rate indicated is the current yield as of February 29, 2012. |
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
6 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Statement of Assets & Liabilities February 29, 2012 |
(Unaudited) | |||||
Assets | |||||
Investments at fair value (cost $1,352,586,952) | $ | 1,727,435,533 | |||
Receivable for Adviser expense reimbursement | 557,226 | ||||
Receivable for investments sold | 1,327,848 | ||||
Prepaid expenses and other assets | 2,259,458 | ||||
Total assets | 1,731,580,065 | ||||
Liabilities | |||||
Payable to Adviser | 2,646,825 | ||||
Distribution payable to common stockholders | 18,954,295 | ||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | 3,143,626 | ||||
Deferred tax liability | 136,282,756 | ||||
Short-term borrowings | 10,700,000 | ||||
Long-term debt obligations | 255,000,000 | ||||
Mandatory redeemable preferred stock ($25.00 liquidation | |||||
value per share; 3,600,000 shares outstanding) | 90,000,000 | ||||
Total liabilities | 516,727,502 | ||||
Net assets applicable to common stockholders | $ | 1,214,852,563 | |||
Net Assets Applicable to Common Stockholders Consist of: | |||||
Capital stock, $0.001 par value; 45,949,783 shares issued | |||||
and outstanding (100,000,000 shares authorized) | $ | 45,950 | |||
Additional paid-in capital | 985,237,060 | ||||
Accumulated net investment loss, net of income taxes | (21,381,564 | ) | |||
Undistributed realized gain, net of income taxes | 13,724,462 | ||||
Net unrealized appreciation of investments, net of income taxes | 237,226,655 | ||||
Net assets applicable to common stockholders | $ | 1,214,852,563 | |||
Net Asset Value per common share outstanding | |||||
(net assets applicable to common stock, | |||||
divided by common shares outstanding) | $ | 26.44 |
(Unaudited) | ||||
Investment Income | ||||
Distributions from master limited partnerships | $ | 24,216,803 | ||
Less return of capital on distributions | (22,807,578 | ) | ||
Net distributions from master limited partnerships | 1,409,225 | |||
Dividends from money market mutual funds | 83 | |||
Total Investment Income | 1,409,308 | |||
Operating Expenses | ||||
Advisory fees | 3,935,762 | |||
Administrator fees | 114,208 | |||
Professional fees | 53,210 | |||
Stockholder communication expenses | 41,773 | |||
Directors fees | 34,775 | |||
Fund accounting fees | 21,179 | |||
Custodian fees and expenses | 17,731 | |||
Registration fees | 10,457 | |||
Stock transfer agent fees | 3,084 | |||
Franchise fees | (37,457 | ) | ||
Other operating expenses | 27,302 | |||
Total Operating Expenses | 4,222,024 | |||
Leverage Expenses | ||||
Interest expense | 2,430,351 | |||
Distributions to mandatory redeemable preferred stockholders | 934,250 | |||
Amortization of debt issuance costs | 95,860 | |||
Other leverage expenses | 36,471 | |||
Total Leverage Expenses | 3,496,932 | |||
Total Expenses | 7,718,956 | |||
Less expense reimbursement by Adviser | (828,581 | ) | ||
Net Expenses | 6,890,375 | |||
Net Investment Loss, before Income Taxes | (5,481,067 | ) | ||
Deferred tax benefit | 1,655,041 | |||
Net Investment Loss | (3,826,026 | ) | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain on Investments | ||||
Net realized loss on investments, before income taxes | (8,401,977 | ) | ||
Deferred tax benefit | 3,087,727 | |||
Net realized loss on investments | (5,314,250 | ) | ||
Net unrealized appreciation of investments, before income taxes | 182,380,303 | |||
Deferred tax expense | (67,024,761 | ) | ||
Net unrealized appreciation of investments | 115,355,542 | |||
Net Realized and Unrealized Gain on Investments | 110,041,292 | |||
Net Increase in Net Assets Applicable to Common Stockholders | ||||
Resulting from Operations | $ | 106,215,266 |
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
2012 1st Quarter Report 7
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
Period from | ||||||||
December 1, 2011 | ||||||||
through | Year Ended | |||||||
February 29, 2012 | November 30, 2011 | |||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Operations | ||||||||
Net investment loss | $ | (3,826,026 | ) | $ | (15,661,729 | ) | ||
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | (5,314,250 | ) | 18,830,309 | |||||
Net unrealized appreciation of investments | 115,355,542 | 54,475,263 | ||||||
Net increase in net assets applicable to common stockholders
resulting from operations |
106,215,266 | 57,643,843 | ||||||
Distributions to Common Stockholders | ||||||||
Net investment income | | | ||||||
Return of capital | (18,954,286 | ) | (74,579,942 | ) | ||||
Total distributions to common stockholders | (18,954,286 | ) | (74,579,942 | ) | ||||
Capital Stock Transactions | ||||||||
Issuance of 545,595 common
shares from reinvestment of distributions to stockholders |
| 13,407,746 | ||||||
Net increase in net assets applicable to common stockholders from capital stock transactions |
| 13,407,746 | ||||||
Total increase (decrease) in net assets applicable to common stockholders | 87,260,980 | (3,528,353 | ) | |||||
Net Assets | ||||||||
Beginning of period | 1,127,591,583 | 1,131,119,936 | ||||||
End of period | $ | 1,214,852,563 | $ | 1,127,591,583 | ||||
Accumulated net investment loss, net of income taxes, end of period | $ | (21,381,564 | ) | $ | (17,555,538 | ) |
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
8 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Statement of Cash Flows Period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012 |
(Unaudited) |
Cash Flows From Operating Activities | |||
Distributions received from master limited partnerships | $ | 24,216,803 | |
Dividend income received | 213 | ||
Purchases of long-term investments | (53,846,618 | ) | |
Proceeds from sales of long-term investments | 35,600,237 | ||
Proceeds from sales of short-term investments, net | 27,495 | ||
Interest expense paid | (2,386,621 | ) | |
Distributions to mandatory redeemable preferred stockholders | (934,250 | ) | |
Other leverage expenses paid | (3,100 | ) | |
Operating expenses paid | (3,274,159 | ) | |
Net cash used in operating activities | (600,000 | ) | |
Cash Flows From Financing Activities | |||
Advances from revolving line of credit | 38,600,000 | ||
Repayments on revolving line of credit | (38,000,000 | ) | |
Net cash provided by financing activities | 600,000 | ||
Net change in cash | | ||
Cash beginning of period | | ||
Cash end of period | $ | |
Reconciliation of net increase in net assets applicable to | |||
common stockholders resulting from operations | |||
to net cash used in operating activities | |||
Net increase in net assets applicable to common | |||
stockholders resulting from operations | $ | 106,215,266 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets | |||
applicable to common stockholders resulting from | |||
operations to net cash used in operating activities: | |||
Purchases of long-term investments | (49,499,087 | ) | |
Proceeds from sales of long-term investments | 34,033,931 | ||
Proceeds from sales of short-term investments, net | 27,495 | ||
Return of capital on distributions received | 22,807,578 | ||
Deferred tax expense | 62,281,993 | ||
Net unrealized appreciation of investments | (182,380,303 | ) | |
Net realized loss on investments | 8,401,977 | ||
Amortization of debt issuance costs | 95,860 | ||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||
Decrease in interest and dividend receivable | 152 | ||
Decrease in receivable for investments sold | 1,566,306 | ||
Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets | 20,745 | ||
Decrease in payable for investments purchased | (4,347,531 | ) | |
Increase in payable to Adviser, net of | |||
expense reimbursement | 175,471 | ||
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities | 147 | ||
Total adjustments | (106,815,266 | ) | |
Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (600,000 | ) |
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
2012 1st Quarter Report 9
Financial Highlights |
Period from | Period from | |||||||||||
December 1, 2011 | July 30, 2010(1) | |||||||||||
through | Year Ended | through | ||||||||||
February 29, 2012 | November 30, 2011 | November 30, 2010 | ||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||
Per Common Share Data(2) | ||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, beginning of period | $ | 24.54 | $ | 24.91 | $ | | ||||||
Public offering price | | | 25.00 | |||||||||
Income from Investment Operations | ||||||||||||
Net investment loss(3) | (0.08 | ) | (0.34 | ) | (0.04 | ) | ||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments(3) | 2.39 | 1.61 | 1.49 | |||||||||
Total income from investment operations | 2.31 | 1.27 | 1.45 | |||||||||
Distributions to Common Stockholders | ||||||||||||
Net investment income | | | | |||||||||
Return of capital | (0.41 | ) | (1.64 | ) | (0.36 | ) | ||||||
Total distributions to common stockholders | (0.41 | ) | (1.64 | ) | (0.36 | ) | ||||||
Underwriting discounts
and
offering costs on issuance of common stock(4) |
| | (1.18 | ) | ||||||||
Net Asset Value, end of period | $ | 26.44 | $ | 24.54 | $ | 24.91 | ||||||
Per common share market value, end of period | $ | 26.45 | $ | 24.84 | $ | 24.14 | ||||||
Total Investment Return Based on Market Value(5) | 8.14 | % | 9.88 | % | (2.02 | )% | ||||||
Supplemental Data and Ratios | ||||||||||||
Net assets applicable to
common
stockholders, end of period (000s) |
$ | 1,214,853 | $ | 1,127,592 | $ | 1,131,120 | ||||||
Average net assets (000s) | $ | 1,188,060 | $ | 1,140,951 | $ | 1,087,459 | ||||||
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets(6) | ||||||||||||
Advisory fees | 1.33 | % | 1.30 | % | 1.07 | % | ||||||
Other operating expenses | 0.10 | 0.13 | 0.12 | |||||||||
Expense reimbursement | (0.28 | ) | (0.32 | ) | (0.28 | ) | ||||||
Subtotal | 1.15 | 1.11 | 0.91 | |||||||||
Leverage expenses | 1.18 | 1.22 | 0.48 | |||||||||
Income tax expense(7) | 21.09 | 3.11 | 10.44 | |||||||||
Total expenses | 23.42 | % | 5.44 | % | 11.83 | % | ||||||
Ratio of net investment
loss to
average net assets before expense reimbursement(6) |
(1.58 | )% | (1.69 | )% | (0.79 | )% | ||||||
Ratio of net investment
loss to
average net assets after expense reimbursement(6) |
(1.30 | )% | (1.37 | )% | (0.51 | )% | ||||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 2.05 | % | 19.57 | % | 1.24 | % | ||||||
Short-term borrowings, end of period (000s) | $ | 10,700 | $ | 10,100 | $ | 30,700 | ||||||
Long-term debt obligations, end of period (000s) | $ | 255,000 | $ | 255,000 | $ | 230,000 | ||||||
Preferred stock, end of period (000s) | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | ||||||
Per common share amount
of long-term
debt obligations outstanding, end of period |
$ | 5.55 | $ | 5.55 | $ | 5.07 | ||||||
Per common share amount
of net
assets, excluding long-term debt obligations, end of period |
$ | 31.99 | $ | 30.09 | $ | 29.98 | ||||||
Asset coverage, per
$1,000 of principal
amount of long-term debt obligations |
||||||||||||
and short-term borrowings(8) | $ | 5,911 | $ | 5,593 | $ | 5,684 | ||||||
Asset coverage ratio of
long-term
debt obligations and short-term borrowings(8) |
591 | % | 559 | % | 568 | % | ||||||
Asset coverage, per $25
liquidation value per
share of mandatory redeemable preferred stock(9) |
$ | 110 | $ | 104 | $ | 106 | ||||||
Asset coverage ratio of preferred stock(9) | 442 | % | 418 | % | 423 | % |
(1) | Commencement of Operations. |
(2) | Information presented relates to a share of common stock outstanding for the entire period. |
(3) | The per common share data for the period from July 30, 2010 through November 30, 2010 do not reflect the change in estimate of investment income and return of capital. See Note 2C to the financial statements for further disclosure. |
(4) | Represents the dilution per common share from underwriting and other offering costs for the period from July 30, 2010 through November 30, 2010. |
(5) | Not annualized for periods less than one full year. Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock at the beginning of the period (or initial public offering price) and a sale at the closing price on the last day of the period reported (excluding brokerage commissions). This calculation also assumes reinvestment of distributions at actual prices pursuant to the companys dividend reinvestment plan. |
(6) | Annualized for periods less than one full year. |
(7) | For the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012, the Company accrued $62,281,993 for net deferred income tax expense. For the year ended November 30, 2011, the Company accrued $20,589 for current income tax benefit and $35,466,770 for net deferred income tax expense. For the period from July 30, 2010 to November 30, 2010, the Company accrued $50,000 for current income tax expense and $38,533,993 for net deferred income tax expense. |
(8) | Represents value of total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by long-term debt obligations, short-term borrowings and preferred stock at the end of the period divided by long-term debt obligations and short-term borrowings outstanding at the end of the period. |
(9) | Represents value of total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by long-term debt obligations, short-term borrowings and preferred stock at the end of the period divided by the sum of long-term debt obligations, short-term borrowings and preferred stock outstanding at the end of the period. |
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
10 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) February 29, 2012 |
1. Organization
Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc. (the Company) was organized as a Maryland corporation on April 23, 2010, and is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act). The Companys investment objective is to seek a high level of total return with an emphasis on current distributions paid to stockholders. The Company seeks to provide its stockholders with an efficient vehicle to invest in the energy infrastructure sector, with an emphasis on natural gas infrastructure. The Company commenced operations on July 30, 2010. The Companys stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NTG.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
A. Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, recognition of distribution income and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
B. Investment Valuation
The Company primarily owns securities that are listed on a securities exchange or over-the-counter market. The Company values those securities at their last sale price on that exchange or over-the-counter market on the valuation date. If the security is listed on more than one exchange, the Company uses the price from the exchange that it considers to be the principal exchange on which the security is traded. Securities listed on the NASDAQ will be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may not necessarily represent the last sale price. If there has been no sale on such exchange or over-the-counter market on such day, the security will be valued at the mean between the last bid price and last ask price on such day.
The Company may invest up to 50 percent of its total assets in restricted securities. Restricted securities are subject to statutory or contractual restrictions on their public resale, which may make it more difficult to obtain a valuation and may limit the Companys ability to dispose of them. Investments in restricted securities and other securities for which market quotations are not readily available will be valued in good faith by using fair value procedures approved by the Board of Directors. Such fair value procedures consider factors such as discounts to publicly traded issues, time until conversion date, securities with similar yields, quality, type of issue, coupon, duration and rating. If events occur that affect the value of the Companys portfolio securities before the net asset value has been calculated (a significant event), the portfolio securities so affected will generally be priced using fair value procedures.
An equity security of a publicly traded company acquired in a direct placement transaction may be subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the securitys liquidity and fair value. Such securities that are convertible or otherwise will become freely tradable will be valued based on the market value of the freely tradable security less an applicable discount. Generally, the discount will initially be equal to the discount at which the Company purchased the securities. To the extent that such securities are convertible or otherwise become freely tradable within a time frame that may be reasonably determined, an amortization schedule may be used to determine the discount.
The Company generally values debt securities at prices based on market quotations for such securities, except those securities purchased with 60 days or less to maturity are valued on the basis of amortized cost, which approximates market value.
C. Security Transactions and Investment Income
Security transactions are accounted for on the date the securities are purchased or sold (trade date). Realized gains and losses are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income is recognized on the accrual basis, including amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Dividend and distribution income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received from the Companys investments in master limited partnerships (MLPs) generally are comprised of ordinary income and return of capital from the MLPs. The Company allocates distributions between investment income and return of capital based on estimates made at the time such distributions are received. Such estimates are based on information provided by each MLP and other industry sources. These estimates may subsequently be revised based on actual allocations received from MLPs after their tax reporting periods are concluded, as the actual character of these distributions is not known until after the fiscal year end of the Company.
For the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012, the Company estimated the allocation of investment income and return of capital for the distributions received from MLPs within the Statement of Operations. For this period, the Company has estimated approximately 6 percent as investment income and approximately 94 percent as return of capital.
D. Distributions to Stockholders
Distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The Company may not declare or pay distributions to its common stockholders if it does not meet asset coverage ratios required under the 1940 Act of the rating agency guidelines for its debt and preferred stock following such distribution. The character of distributions to common stockholders made during the year may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. For book purposes, the source of the Companys distributions to common stockholders for the year ended November 30, 2011 and the period ended February 29, 2012 was 100 percent return of capital. For tax purposes, the Companys distributions to common stockholders for the year ended November 30, 2011 were 100 percent return of capital. The tax character of distributions paid to common stockholders in the current year will be determined subsequent to November 30, 2012.
Distributions to mandatory redeemable preferred (MRP) stockholders are accrued daily and paid quarterly based on fixed annual rates. The Company may not declare or pay distributions to its preferred stockholders if it does not meet a 200 percent asset coverage ratio for its debt or the rating agency basic maintenance amount for the debt following such distribution. The character of distributions to MRP stockholders made during the year may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. For book purposes, the source of the Companys distributions to MRP stockholders for the year ended November 30, 2011 and the period ended February 29, 2012 was 100 percent return of capital. For tax purposes, the Companys distributions to MRP stockholders for the year ended November 30, 2011 were 100 percent return of capital. The tax character of distributions paid to MRP stockholders for the current year will be determined subsequent to November 30, 2012.
2012 1st Quarter Report 11
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued) |
E. Federal Income Taxation
The Company, as a corporation, is obligated to pay federal and state income tax on its taxable income. Currently, the highest regular marginal federal income tax rate for a corporation is 35 percent. The Company may be subject to a 20 percent federal alternative minimum tax on its federal alternative minimum taxable income to the extent that its alternative minimum tax exceeds its regular federal income tax.
The Company invests its assets primarily in MLPs, which generally are treated as partnerships for federal income tax purposes. As a limited partner in the MLPs, the Company reports its allocable share of the MLPs taxable income in computing its own taxable income. The Companys tax expense or benefit is included in the Statement of Operations based on the component of income or gains (losses) to which such expense or benefit relates. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred income tax asset will not be realized.
F. Offering and Debt Issuance Costs
Offering costs related to the issuance of common stock are charged to additional paid-in capital when the stock is issued. Debt issuance costs related to long-term debt obligations and Mandatory Redeemable Preferred (MRP) Stock are capitalized and amortized over the period the debt and MRP Stock is outstanding.
G. Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company may use derivative financial instruments (principally interest rate swap contracts) in an attempt to manage interest rate risk. The Company has established policies and procedures for risk assessment and the approval, reporting and monitoring of derivative financial instrument activities. The Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. All derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value during the reporting period, and amounts accrued under the agreements, included as unrealized gains or losses in the accompanying Statement of Operations. Monthly cash settlements under the terms of the derivative instruments and the termination of such contracts are recorded as realized gains or losses in the accompanying Statement of Operations. The Company did not hold any derivative financial instruments during the period ended February 29, 2012.
H. Indemnifications
Under the Companys organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Company. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Company may enter into contracts that provide general indemnification to other parties. The Companys maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Company that have not yet occurred, and may not occur. However, the Company has not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.
I. Recent Accounting Pronouncement
In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04 Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in GAAP and the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs). ASU No. 2011-04 amends FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, to establish common requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements in accordance with GAAP and IFRSs. ASU No. 2011-04 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011 and for interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these amendments, but currently does not believe they will have a material impact on the Companys financial statements.
3. Concentration of Risk
Under normal circumstances, the Company intends to invest at least 80 percent of its total assets in equity securities of MLPs in the energy infrastructure sector and to invest at least 70 percent of its total assets in equity securities of natural gas infrastructure MLPs. The Company will not invest more than 10 percent of its total assets in any single issuer as of the time of purchase. The Company may invest up to 50 percent of its total assets in restricted securities. The Company will not invest in privately held companies. In determining application of these policies, the term total assets includes assets obtained through leverage. Companies that primarily invest in a particular sector may experience greater volatility than companies investing in a broad range of industry sectors. The Company may, for defensive purposes, temporarily invest all or a significant portion of its assets in investment grade securities, short-term debt securities and cash or cash equivalents. To the extent the Company uses this strategy, it may not achieve its investment objective.
4. Agreements
The Company has entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. (the Adviser). Under the terms of the agreement, the Company pays the Adviser a fee equal to an annual rate of 0.95 percent of the Companys average monthly total assets (including any assets attributable to leverage) minus accrued liabilities (other than debt entered into for purposes of leverage and the aggregate liquidation preference of outstanding preferred stock) (Managed Assets), in exchange for the investment advisory services provided. The Adviser has agreed to waive an amount equal to 0.20 percent of average monthly Managed Assets for the period from July 28, 2011 through December 31, 2012, 0.15 percent of average monthly Managed Assets for the period from January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2013, 0.10 percent of average monthly Managed Assets for the period from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014, and 0.05 percent of average monthly Managed Assets for the period from January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015.
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC serves as the Companys administrator. The Company pays the administrator a monthly fee computed at an annual rate of 0.04 percent of the first $1,000,000,000 of the Companys Managed Assets, 0.01 percent on the next $500,000,000 of Managed Assets and 0.005 percent on the balance of the Companys Managed Assets.
12 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued) |
Computershare Trust Company, N.A. serves as the Companys transfer agent and registrar and Computershare Inc. serves as the Companys dividend paying agent and agent for the automatic dividend reinvestment plan.
U.S. Bank, N.A. serves as the Companys custodian. The Company pays the custodian a monthly fee computed at an annual rate of 0.004 percent of the Companys portfolio assets, plus portfolio transaction fees.
5. Income Taxes
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and tax purposes. Components of the Companys deferred tax assets and liabilities as of February 29, 2012, are as follows:
Deferred tax assets: | ||
Net operating loss carryforwards | $ | 29,058,330 |
Capital loss | 4,566,203 | |
33,624,533 | ||
Deferred tax liabilities: | ||
Basis reduction of investment in MLPs | 32,150,436 | |
Net unrealized gains on investment securities | 137,756,853 | |
169,907,289 | ||
Total net deferred tax liability | $ | 136,282,756 |
At February 29, 2012, a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets was not deemed necessary because the Company believes it is more likely than not that there is an ability to realize its deferred tax assets through future taxable income of the appropriate character. Any adjustments to the Companys estimates of future taxable income will be made in the period such determination is made. The Companys policy is to record interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions as part of tax expense. As of February 29, 2012, the Company had no uncertain tax positions and no penalties and interest were accrued. All tax years since inception remain open to examination by federal and state tax authorities.
Total income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate of 35 percent to net investment loss and net realized losses and unrealized gains on investments for the period ended February 29, 2012, as follows:
Application of statutory income tax rate | $ | 58,974,040 |
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit | 2,948,702 | |
Nondeductible payments on preferred stock | 359,251 | |
Total income tax expense | $ | 62,281,993 |
Total income taxes are computed by applying the federal statutory rate plus a blended state income tax rate.
For the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012, the components of income tax expense include deferred federal and state income tax expense (net of federal tax benefit) of $59,316,184 and $2,965,809, respectively.
As of November 30, 2011, the Company had a net operating loss for federal income tax purposes of approximately $33,539,000. The net operating loss may be carried forward for 20 years. If not utilized, this net operating loss will expire as follows: $3,343,000 and $30,196,000 in the years ending November 30, 2030 and 2031, respectively. The amount of deferred tax asset for net operating loss and capital loss at February 29, 2012 includes amounts for the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012.
As of February 29, 2012, the aggregate cost of securities for federal income tax purposes was $1,265,102,772. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of fair value over tax cost was $479,726,069, the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of tax cost over fair value was $17,393,308 and the net unrealized appreciation was $462,332,761.
6. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Companys investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
Level 1 | | quoted prices in active markets for identical investments |
Level 2 | | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar investments, market corroborated inputs, etc.) |
Level 3 | | significant unobservable inputs (including the Companys own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments) |
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following table provides the fair value measurements of applicable Company assets by level within the fair value hierarchy as of February 29, 2012. These assets are measured on a recurring basis.
Fair Value at | ||||||||||||||
Description | February 29, 2012 | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||||||
Equity Securities: | ||||||||||||||
Master Limited Partnerships | ||||||||||||||
and Related Companies(a) | $ | 1,727,320,826 | $ | 1,727,320,826 | $ | | $ | | ||||||
Other: | ||||||||||||||
Short-Term Investments(b) | 114,707 | 114,707 | | | ||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,727,435,533 | $ | 1,727,435,533 | $ | | $ | |
(a) | All other industry classifications are identified in the Schedule of Investments. |
(b) | Short-term investments are sweep investments for cash balances in the Company at February 29, 2012. |
Valuation Techniques
In general, and where applicable, the Company uses readily available market quotations based upon the last updated sales price from the principal market to determine fair value. This pricing methodology applies to the Companys Level 1 investments.
2012 1st Quarter Report 13
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued) |
An equity security of a publicly traded company acquired in a private placement transaction without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act), is subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the securitys fair value. If such a security is convertible into publicly-traded common shares, the security generally will be valued at the common share market price adjusted by a percentage discount due to the restrictions and categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. If the security has characteristics that are dissimilar to the class of security that trades on the open market, the security will generally be valued and categorized as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
The Company utilizes the beginning of reporting period method for determining transfers between levels. There were no transfers between levels for the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012.
7. Investment Transactions
For the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012, the Company purchased (at cost) and sold securities (proceeds received) in the amount of $49,499,087 and $34,033,931 (excluding short-term debt securities), respectively.
8. Long-Term Debt Obligations
The Company has $255,000,000 aggregate principal amount of private senior notes, Series A, Series B, Series C, Series D, Series E, Series F, and Series G (collectively, the Notes), outstanding. The Notes are unsecured obligations of the Company and, upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, will rank: (1) senior to all of the Companys outstanding preferred shares; (2) senior to all of the Companys outstanding common stock; (3) on parity with any unsecured creditors of the Company and any unsecured senior securities representing indebtedness of the Company and (4) junior to any secured creditors of the Company. Holders of the Notes are entitled to receive cash interest payments each quarter until maturity. The Series A, Series B, Series C, Series D, and Series G Notes accrue interest at fixed rates and the Series E and Series F Notes accrue interest at an annual rate that resets each quarter based on the 3-month LIBOR plus 1.70 and 1.35 percent, respectively. The Notes are not listed on any exchange or automated quotation system.
The Notes are redeemable in certain circumstances at the option of the Company. The Notes are also subject to a mandatory redemption if the Company fails to meet asset coverage ratios required under the 1940 Act or the rating agency guidelines if such failure is not waived or cured. At February 29, 2012, the Company was in compliance with asset coverage covenants and basic maintenance covenants for its senior notes.
The estimated fair value of each series of fixed-rate Notes was calculated, for disclosure purposes, by discounting future cash flows by a rate equal to the current U.S. Treasury rate with an equivalent maturity date, plus either 1) the spread between the interest rate on recently issued debt and the U.S. Treasury rate with a similar maturity date or 2) if there has not been a recent debt issuance, the spread between the AAA corporate finance debt rate and the U.S. Treasury rate with an equivalent maturity date plus the spread between the fixed rates of the Notes and the AAA corporate finance debt rate. The estimated fair value of the Series E and Series F Notes approximates the carrying amount because the interest rates fluctuate with changes in interest rates available in the current market. The following table shows the maturity date, interest rate, notional/carrying amount and estimated fair value for each series of Notes outstanding at February 29, 2012.
Notional/ | |||||||||||
Maturity | Interest | Carrying | Estimated | ||||||||
Series | Date | Rate | Amount | Fair Value | |||||||
Series A | December 15, 2013 | 2.48 | % | $ | 12,000,000 | $ | 12,094,939 | ||||
Series B | December 15, 2015 | 3.14 | % | 24,000,000 | 24,552,815 | ||||||
Series C | December 15, 2017 | 3.73 | % | 57,000,000 | 59,076,654 | ||||||
Series D | December 15, 2020 | 4.29 | % | 112,000,000 | 116,449,242 | ||||||
Series E | December 15, 2015 | 2.25 | %(1) | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | ||||||
Series F | May 12, 2014 | 1.86 | %(2) | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||
Series G | May 12, 2018 | 4.35 | % | 10,000,000 | 10,608,408 | ||||||
$ | 255,000,000 | $ | 262,782,058 |
(1) | Floating rate; weighted-average rate for the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012 was 2.22 percent. |
(2) | Floating rate; weighted-average rate for the period from December 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012 was 1.81 percent. |
9. Preferred Stock
The Company has 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock authorized. Of that amount, the Company has 3,600,000 shares of private Mandatory Redeemable Preferred (MRP) Stock authorized and outstanding at February 29, 2012. The MRP Stock has a liquidation value of $25.00 per share plus any accumulated but unpaid distributions, whether or not declared. Holders of the MRP Stock are entitled to receive cash interest payments each quarter at a fixed rate until maturity. The MRP Stock is not listed on any exchange or automated quotation system.
The MRP Stock has rights determined by the Board of Directors. Except as otherwise indicated in the Companys Charter or Bylaws, or as otherwise required by law, the holders of MRP Stock have voting rights equal to the holders of common stock (one vote per MRP share) and will vote together with the holders of shares of common stock as a single class except on matters affecting only the holders of preferred stock or the holders of common stock. The 1940 Act requires that the holders of any preferred stock (including MRP Stock), voting separately as a single class, have the right to elect at least two directors at all times.
14 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued) |
The estimated fair value of each series of MRP Stock was calculated, for disclosure purposes, by discounting future cash flows by a rate equal to the current U.S. Treasury rate with an equivalent maturity date, plus either 1) the spread between the interest rate on recently issued preferred stock and the U.S. Treasury rate with a similar maturity date or 2) if there has not been a recent preferred stock issuance, the spread between the AA corporate finance debt rate and the U.S. Treasury rate with an equivalent maturity date plus the spread between the fixed rates of the MRP Stock and the AA corporate finance debt rate. The following table shows the mandatory redemption date, fixed rate, aggregate liquidation preference, number of shares outstanding and estimated fair value of each series of MRP Stock outstanding as of February 29, 2012.
Mandatory | Aggregate | |||||||||||||
Redemption | Fixed | Liquidation | Shares | Estimated | ||||||||||
Series | Date | Rate | Preference | Outstanding | Fair Value | |||||||||
Series A | December 15, 2015 | 3.69 | % | $ | 25,000,000 | 1,000,000 | $ | 25,376,894 | ||||||
Series B | December 15, 2017 | 4.33 | % | 65,000,000 | 2,600,000 | 66,737,182 | ||||||||
$ | 90,000,000 | 3,600,000 | $ | 92,114,076 |
The MRP Stock is redeemable in certain circumstances at the option of the Company. Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Company may not declare dividends or make other distributions on shares of common stock or purchases of such shares if, at the time of the declaration, distribution or purchase, asset coverage with respect to the outstanding MRP Stock would be less than 200 percent. The MRP Stock is also subject to a mandatory redemption if the Company fails to meet an asset coverage ratio of at least 225 percent as determined in accordance with the 1940 Act or a rating agency basic maintenance amount if such failure is not waived or cured. At February 29, 2012, the Company was in compliance with asset coverage covenants and basic maintenance covenants for its MRP Stock.
10. Credit Facility
On September 23, 2011 the Company entered into an amendment to its credit facility that extends the credit facility through September 21, 2012. Bank of America, N.A. serves as a lender and the lending syndicate agent on behalf of other lenders participating in the facility. The terms of the amendment provide for an unsecured revolving credit facility of $65,000,000. During the extension, outstanding balances generally will accrue interest at a variable annual rate equal to one-month LIBOR plus 1.25 percent and unused portions of the credit facility will accrue a non-usage fee equal to an annual rate of 0.20 percent.
The average principal balance and interest rate for the period during which the credit facility was utilized during the period ended February 29, 2012 was approximately $25,300,000 and 1.52 percent, respectively. At February 29, 2012, the principal balance outstanding was $10,700,000 at an interest rate of 1.49 percent.
Under the terms of the credit facility, the Company must maintain asset coverage required under the 1940 Act. If the Company fails to maintain the required coverage, it may be required to repay a portion of an outstanding balance until the coverage requirement has been met. At February 29, 2012, the Company was in compliance with the terms of the credit facility.
11. Common Stock
The Company has 100,000,000 shares of capital stock authorized and 45,949,783 shares outstanding at February 29, 2012 and November 30, 2011.
12. Subsequent Events
On March 1, 2012, the Company paid a distribution of $0.4125 per common share, for a total of $18,954,286. Of this total, the dividend reinvestment amounted to $2,715,890.
The Company has performed an evaluation of subsequent events through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that no additional items require recognition or disclosure.
2012 1st Quarter Report 15
Additional Information (Unaudited) |
Director and Officer Compensation
The Company does not compensate any of its directors who are interested persons, as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act, nor any of its officers. For the period ended February 29, 2012, the aggregate compensation paid by the Company to the independent directors was $35,500. The Company did not pay any special compensation to any of its directors or officers.
Forward-Looking Statements
This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. By their nature, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Several factors that could materially affect the Companys actual results are the performance of the portfolio of investments held by it, the conditions in the U.S. and international financial, petroleum and other markets, the price at which shares of the Company will trade in the public markets and other factors discussed in filings with the SEC.
Proxy Voting Policies
A description of the policies and procedures that the Company uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities owned by the Company and information regarding how the Company voted proxies relating to the portfolio of securities during the 12-month period ended June 30, 2011 are available to stockholders (i) without charge, upon request by calling the Company at (913) 981-1020 or toll-free at (866) 362-9331 and on the Companys Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com; and (ii) on the SECs Web site at www.sec.gov.
Form N-Q
The Company files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year with the SEC on Form N-Q. The Companys Form N-Q is available without charge upon request by calling the Company at (866) 362-9331 or by visiting the SECs Web site at www.sec.gov. In addition, you may review and copy the Companys Form N-Q at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington D.C. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling (800) SEC-0330.
The Companys Form N-Qs are also available on the Companys Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.
Statement of Additional Information
The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) includes additional information about the Companys directors and is available upon request without charge by calling the Company at (866) 362-9331 or by visiting the SECs Web site at www.sec.gov.
Certifications
The Companys Chief Executive Officer submitted to the New York Stock Exchange the annual CEO certification as required by Section 303A.12(a) of the NYSE Listed Company Manual.
The Company has filed with the SEC, as an exhibit to its most recently filed Form N-CSR, the certification of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
Privacy Policy
In order to conduct its business, the Company collects and maintains certain nonpublic personal information about its stockholders of record with respect to their transactions in shares of the Companys securities. This information includes the stockholders address, tax identification or Social Security number, share balances, and distribution elections. We do not collect or maintain personal information about stockholders whose share balances of our securities are held in street name by a financial institution such as a bank or broker.
We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about you, the Companys other stockholders or the Companys former stockholders to third parties unless necessary to process a transaction, service an account, or as otherwise permitted by law.
To protect your personal information internally, we restrict access to nonpublic personal information about the Companys stockholders to those employees who need to know that information to provide services to our stockholders. We also maintain certain other safeguards to protect your nonpublic personal information.
16 Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
Office of the
Company Managing Directors
of Board of Directors
of H. Kevin Birzer,
Chairman Conrad S.
Ciccotello John R.
Graham Charles E.
Heath |
ADMINISTRATOR CUSTODIAN TRANSFER, DIVIDEND
DISBURSING LEGAL
COUNSEL INVESTOR
RELATIONS STOCK
SYMBOL This report is for stockholder information. This is not a prospectus intended for use in the purchase or sale of fund shares. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and your investment may be worth more or less at the time you sell. |
Tortoise Capital Advisors Closed-end Funds
Pureplay MLP Funds | Broader Funds | |||||||||||||
Name | Ticker | Focus | Total Assets(1) ($ in millions) |
Name | Ticker | Focus | Total Assets(1) ($ in millions) |
|||||||
Tortoise
Energy Infrastructure Corp. |
Midstream Equity | $1,683 | Tortoise Pipeline
& Energy Fund, Inc. |
Pipeline Equity | $339 | |||||||||
Tortoise
Energy Capital Corp. |
Midstream Equity | $863 | Tortoise Power and Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. |
Power & Energy Infrastructure Debt & Dividend Paying Equity |
$217 | |||||||||
Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc. |
Natural Gas Equity | $1,667 | ||||||||||||
Tortoise North American Energy Corp. |
Midstream/Upstream Equity | $224 | ||||||||||||
(1) As of
3/31/12