# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001703079
**File Stem:** 0001398344-25-011840
**Filing Date:** 2025-6
**Character Count:** 352378
**Document Hash:** 49b199bbdabba1057bff9145f4c54c57
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001398344-25-011840.hdr.sgml**: 20250616

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001398344-25-011840

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: N-2/A

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 21

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20250616

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20250613

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001703079

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0930

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** N-2/A
- **SEC ACT:** 1940 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 811-23247
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251048080

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 321 NORTH CLARK STREET #2430
- **CITY:** CHICAGO
- **STATE:** IL
- **ZIP:** 60654
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (312) 374-6930

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 321 NORTH CLARK STREET #2430
- **CITY:** CHICAGO
- **STATE:** IL
- **ZIP:** 60654

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Term Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20170901

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate Alternative Income Term Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20170714

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate Income & Credit Alternative Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20170406
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001703079

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0930

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** N-2/A
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-284466
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251048081

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 321 NORTH CLARK STREET #2430
- **CITY:** CHICAGO
- **STATE:** IL
- **ZIP:** 60654
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (312) 374-6930

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 321 NORTH CLARK STREET #2430
- **CITY:** CHICAGO
- **STATE:** IL
- **ZIP:** 60654

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Term Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20170901

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate Alternative Income Term Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20170714

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** XAI Octagon Floating Rate Income & Credit Alternative Trust
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20170406

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'?

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 16, 2025

Securities Act File No. 333-284466

Investment Company Act File No. 811-23247

**UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549**

**FORM N-2**

[X] Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 [X] Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 [ ] Post-Effective Amendment No. and/or [X] Registration Statement under the Investment Company Act of 1940 [X] Amendment No. 20

**XAI OCTAGON FLOATING RATE & ALTERNATIVE INCOME TRUST (Registrant's Exact Name as Specified in Charter)**

**321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430 Chicago, Illinois 60654**

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

**(312) 374-6930**

(Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code)

**Benjamin McCulloch, Esq. XA Investments LLC 321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430 Chicago, Illinois 60654**

(Name and Address of Agent for Service)

*Copies to*:

**Kevin T. Hardy, Esq.**

**Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP**

**320 South Canal Street**

**Chicago, Illinois 60606**

Approximate date of proposed public offering: **From time to time after the effective date of this Registration Statement.**

[ ] Check box if the only securities being registered on this Form are being offered pursuant to dividend or interest reinvestment plans.

[X] Check box if any securities being registered on this Form will be offered on a delayed or continuous basis in reliance on Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933 ("Securities Act"), other than securities offered in connection with a dividend reinvestment plan.

[X] Check box if this Form is a registration statement pursuant to General Instruction A.2 or a post-effective amendment thereto.

[ ] Check box if this Form is a registration statement pursuant to General Instruction B or a post-effective amendment thereto that will become effective upon filing with the Commission pursuant to Rule 462(e) under the Securities Act.

[ ] Check box if this Form is a post-effective amendment to a registration statement filed pursuant to General Instruction B to register additional securities or additional classes of securities pursuant to Rule 413(b) under the Securities Act.

**It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):**

[ ] When declared effective pursuant to Section 8(c) of the Securities Act.

**If appropriate, check the following box:**

[ ] This [post-effective] amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed [post-effective amendment] [registration statement].

[ ] This Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering is <u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u> .

[ ] This Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, and the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering is <u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u> .

[ ] This Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, and the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering is <u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u> .

**Check each box that appropriately characterizes the Registrant:**

[X] Registered Closed-End Fund (closed-end company that is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 ("Investment Company Act")).

[ ] Business Development Company (closed-end company that intends or has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act).

[ ] Interval Fund (Registered Closed-End Fund or a Business Development Company that makes periodic repurchase offers under Rule 23c-3 under the Investment Company Act).

[X] A.2 Qualified (qualified to register securities pursuant to General Instruction A.2 of this Form).

[ ] Well-Known Seasoned Issuer (as defined by Rule 405 under the Securities Act).

[ ] Emerging Growth Company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act")).

[ ] If an Emerging Growth Company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of Securities Act.

[ ] New Registrant (registered or regulated under the Investment Company Act for less than 12 calendar months preceding this filing).

The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that the Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

**The information in this Prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This Prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.**

**Subject To Completion Preliminary Prospectus dated June 16, 2025**

**BASE PROSPECTUS**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| ![](fp0093829-1_01.jpg) | ![](fp0093829-1_02.jpg) |

---

**$377,747,000**

**XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust**

**Common Shares**

**Preferred Shares**

**Subscription Rights for Common Shares**

**Subscription Rights for Preferred Shares**

***The Trust*.** XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust (the "Trust") is a diversified, closed-end management investment company.

***Investment Objective*.** The investment objective of the Trust is to seek attractive total return with an emphasis on income generation across multiple stages of the credit cycle. There can be no assurance that the Trust will achieve its investment objective, and you could lose some or all of your investment.

***Investment Strategy*.** The Trust seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a dynamically managed portfolio of opportunities primarily within the private credit markets. Under normal market conditions, the Trust will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets (as defined in this Prospectus) in floating rate credit instruments and other structured credit investments. "Managed Assets" means the total assets of the Trust, including assets attributable to the Trust's use of leverage, minus the sum of its accrued liabilities (other than liabilities incurred for the purpose of creating leverage).

***Portfolio Contents*.** The Trust's investments may include (i) structured credit investments, including collateralized loan obligation ("CLO") debt and subordinated (i.e., residual or equity) securities; (ii) traditional corporate credit investments, including leveraged loans and high yield bonds; (iii) opportunistic credit investments, including stressed and distressed credit situations and long/short credit investments; and (iv) other credit-related instruments. The Trust currently intends to pursue its investment objective by investing primarily in below investment grade credit instruments, but may invest without limitation in investment grade credit instruments. Below investment grade credit instruments are often referred to as "high yield" securities or "junk bonds." Below investment grade credit instruments are regarded as having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and to repay principal. The Trust may invest without limitation in credit instruments that are illiquid.

***Offering.*** The Trust may offer, from time to time, up to $377,747,000 aggregate initial offering price of common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share ("Common Shares"), preferred shares ("Preferred Shares"), subscription rights to purchase Common Shares ("Common Rights") and/or subscription rights to purchase Preferred Shares ("Preferred Rights" and together Common Rights, "Rights," and collectively with the Common Shares and Preferred Shares, "Securities") in one or more offerings in amounts, at prices and on terms set forth in one or more supplements to this Prospectus (each a "Prospectus Supplement"). You should read this Prospectus and any related Prospectus Supplement carefully before you decide to invest in the Securities.

The Trust may offer Securities (1) directly to one or more purchasers, (2) through agents that the Trust may designate from time to time or (3) to or through underwriters or dealers. The Prospectus Supplement relating to a particular offering of Securities will identify any agents or underwriters involved in the sale of Securities, and will set forth any applicable purchase price, fee, commission or discount arrangement between the Trust and agents or underwriters or among underwriters or the basis upon which such amount may be calculated. The Trust may not sell Securities through agents, underwriters or dealers without delivery of this Prospectus and a Prospectus Supplement. See "Plan of Distribution."

**Investing in the Trust's Securities involves certain risks. Shares of closed-end funds listed for trading on a securities exchange frequently trade at a discount from net asset value. An investment in the Trust is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of the entire principal amount that you invest. The Trust utilizes leverage, which is subject to numerous risks. See "Risks" beginning on page 4 of this Prospectus and "Risks" in the Trust's most recent Annual Report on Form N-CSR and in any of our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") incorporated herein by reference. You should carefully consider these risks together with all of the other information contained in this Prospectus before making a decision to purchase the Trust's Securities.**

**Neither the SEC nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this Prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.**

 

**Prospectus dated &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; , 2025**

***Adviser and Sub-Adviser*.** XA Investments LLC ("XAI" or the "Adviser") serves as the investment adviser to the Trust and is responsible for overseeing the Trust's overall investment strategy and its implementation. Octagon Credit Investors, LLC ("Octagon" or the "Sub-Adviser") serves as the investment sub-adviser of the Trust and is responsible for investing the Trust's assets. The Trust has also retained the Adviser to provide investor support services and secondary market services in connection with the ongoing operation of the Trust.

***Common Shares*.** The Trust's outstanding Common Shares are, and the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus will be, subject to notice of issuance, listed on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the symbol "XFLT." As of June 6, 2025, the net asset value of the Trust's Common Shares was $6.07 per Common Share and the last reported sale price for the Trust's Common Shares on the NYSE was $5.71 per Common Share, representing a discount to net asset value of 5.93%. See "Market and Net Asset Value Information" in the Annual Report for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024 (together with any updates thereto in subsequent periodic filings) (the "Annual Report").

***Distributions*.** The Trust intends to pay substantially all of its net investment income, if any, to shareholders through periodic distributions and to distribute any net realized long-term capital gains to shareholders at least annually. The Trust intends to pay monthly distributions to common shareholders. However, there is no assurance the Trust will pay regular monthly distributions or that it will do so at a particular rate. Distributions may be paid by the Trust from any permitted source and, from time to time, all or a portion of a distribution may be a return of capital.

***Leverage*.** The Trust utilizes leverage to seek to enhance total return and income. The Trust may use leverage through (i) the issuance of senior securities representing indebtedness, including through borrowing from financial institutions or issuance of debt securities, including notes or commercial paper (collectively, "Indebtedness"), (ii) the issuance of Preferred Shares and/or (iii) reverse repurchase agreements, securities lending, short sales or derivatives, such as swaps, futures or forward contracts, that have the effect of leverage ("portfolio leverage" and, together with Indebtedness and Preferred Shares, "Financial Leverage"). The Trust may utilize leverage to the maximum extent permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). Under the 1940 Act the Trust may not incur Indebtedness if, immediately after incurring such Indebtedness, the Trust would have asset coverage (as defined in the 1940 Act) of less than 300% (i.e., for every dollar of Indebtedness outstanding, the Trust is required to have at least three dollars of assets), and the Trust may not issue Preferred Shares if, immediately after issuance, the Trust would have asset coverage (as defined in the 1940 Act) of less than 200% (i.e., for every dollar of Preferred Shares outstanding, the Trust is required to have at least two dollars of assets).

The Trust has entered into a credit agreement with a financial institution (the "Credit Agreement") pursuant to which the Trust may borrow up to $300 million. As of March 31, 2025 outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement were $227 million. In addition, as of March 31, 2025, the Trust had outstanding 1,596,000 6.50% 2026 Term Preferred Shares, liquidation preference $25 per share (the "2026 Preferred Shares") and 1,200,000 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares, liquidation preference $25 per share (the "6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares"). The 2026 Preferred Shares and 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares are referred to herein as the "Outstanding Preferred Shares." As of March 31, 2025, the Trust's Financial Leverage, through Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement and the Outstanding Preferred Shares represented approximately 39.18% of the Trust's Managed Assets. The use of leverage is a speculative technique that involves special risks. There can be no assurance that the Trust's leveraging strategy will be successful. See "Use of Leverage" and "Risks — Leverage Risk" in the Trust's Annual Report.

You should read this Prospectus and the documents incorporated herein by reference, which contain important information about the Trust that you should know before deciding whether to invest, and retain it for future reference. A Statement of Additional Information, dated &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;, 2025, containing additional information about the Trust, has been filed with the SEC and is incorporated by reference in its entirety into this Prospectus.

**The Trust's Securities do not represent a deposit or obligation of, and are not guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank or other insured depository institution and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board or any other government agency.**

As permitted by regulations adopted by the SEC, paper copies of the Fund's annual and semi-annual shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the Fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on the Fund's website (www.xainvestments.com/XFLT), and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.

You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. If you own these shares through a financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank, you may contact your financial intermediary to request that you continue to receive paper copies of your shareholder reports. If you invest directly with the Fund, you can inform the Fund that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling (888) 903-3358. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex if you invest directly with the Fund or to all funds held in your account if you invest through your financial intermediary.

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

Page

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | **Page** |
| ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS | i |
| WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION | ii |
| INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE | ii |
| THE TRUST | 1 |
| SUMMARY OF TRUST EXPENSES | 1 |
| FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 1 |
| SENIOR SECURITIES | 2 |
| USE OF PROCEEDS | 2 |
| MARKET AND NET ASSET VALUE INFORMATION | 3 |
| INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES | 3 |
| THE TRUST'S INVESTMENTS | 4 |
| USE OF LEVERAGE | 4 |
| RISKS | 4 |
| MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST | 4 |
| NET ASSET VALUE | 4 |
| DISTRIBUTIONS | 4 |
| DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN | 4 |
| DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE | 4 |
| DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED SHARES | 11 |
| DESCRIPTION OF SUBSCRIPTION RIGHTS | 12 |
| ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS IN THE TRUST'S GOVERNING DOCUMENTS | 13 |
| TAX MATTERS | 16 |
| PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION | 22 |
| TRANSFER AGENT, CUSTODIAN AND ADMINISTRATOR | 24 |
| LEGAL MATTERS | 24 |
| INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM | 24 |
| FISCAL YEAR ENDED REPORTS TO SHAREHOLDERS | 24 |
| PRIVACY PRINCIPLES OF THE TRUST | 25 |

---

**ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS**

This Prospectus is part of a registration statement on Form N-2 that the Trust filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") using a "shelf" registration process. Under this process, the Trust may offer, from time to time, up to $377,747,000 aggregate initial offering price of Securities in one or more offerings in amounts, at prices and on terms set forth in one or more Prospectus Supplements. The Prospectus Supplement may also add, update or change information contained in this Prospectus. You should carefully read this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement, together with the additional information described under the heading "Where You Can Find More Information."

This Prospectus, any accompanying Prospectus Supplement and the Statement of Additional Information, contain (or will contain) or incorporate (or will incorporate) by reference forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the federal securities laws, that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements describe the Trust's plans, strategies, and goals and the Trust's beliefs and assumptions concerning future economic and other conditions and the outlook for the Trust, based on currently available information. In this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement, words such as "anticipates," "believes," "expects," "objectives," "goals," "future," "intends," "seeks," "will," "may," "could," "should," and similar expressions, and the negative of such terms, are used in an effort to identify forward-looking statements, although some forward-looking statements may be expressed differently. By their nature, all forward looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by any forward looking statements. Although the Trust believes that the expectations expressed in these forward looking statements are (or will be) reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed in these forward looking statements. The Trust's future financial condition and results of operations, as well as any forward looking statements, are subject to change and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, such as those disclosed in the "Risks" sections of this Prospectus and the Trust's most recent Annual Report, which describe certain currently known risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Trust's expectations, and, if applicable, additional risk considerations described in an accompanying Prospectus Supplement. The Trust urges you to review carefully that section for a more detailed discussion of the risks associated with an investment in the Trust's securities. All forward looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement are made as of the date of this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement. The Trust does not intend, and undertakes no obligation, to update any forward looking statement. The Trust is not entitled to the safe harbor for forward-looking statements pursuant to Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act").

You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement. The Trust has not authorized any other person to provide you with different information. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. The Trust is not making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should not assume that the information in this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement is accurate as of any date other than the date of this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement. The Trust's business, financial condition and results of operations may have changed since that date. The Trust will amend this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement if, during the period that this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement is required to be delivered, there are any subsequent material changes.

i

**WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION**

The Trust is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and the 1940 Act and in accordance therewith files, or will file, reports and other information with the SEC. The SEC maintains a web site at www.sec.gov containing reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants, including the Trust, that file electronically with the SEC.

This Prospectus constitutes part of a Registration Statement filed by the Trust with the SEC under the Securities Act, and the 1940 Act. This Prospectus omits certain of the information contained in the Registration Statement, and reference is hereby made to the Registration Statement and related exhibits for further information with respect to the Trust and the Common Shares offered hereby. Any statements contained herein concerning the provisions of any document are, in each instance, qualified by reference to the copy of such document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement or otherwise filed with the SEC. Each such statement is qualified in its entirety by such reference. The complete Registration Statement may be obtained from the SEC upon payment of the fee prescribed by its rules and regulations or free of charge through the SEC's website (www.sec.gov).

The Trust will provide without charge to each person, including any beneficial owner, to whom this Prospectus is delivered, upon written or oral request, a copy of any and all of the information that has been incorporated by reference in this Prospectus or any accompanying Prospectus Supplement. You may request such information by calling (888) 903-3358 or by writing to XA Investments at 321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430, Chicago, Illinois 60654, or you may obtain a copy (and other information regarding the Trust) from the SEC's website (www.sec.gov). Free copies of the Trust's Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information and any incorporated information will also be available from the Trust's website at www.xainvestments.com. Information contained on the trust's website is not incorporated by reference into this Prospectus or any Prospectus Supplement and should not be considered to be part of this Prospectus or any Prospectus Supplement.

**INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE**

This Prospectus is part of a registration statement that the Trust has filed with the SEC. The Trust is permitted to "incorporate by reference" the information that it files with the SEC, which means that the Trust can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is an important part of this Prospectus, and later information that the Trust files with the SEC will automatically update and supersede this information.

The documents listed below, and any reports and other documents subsequently filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 30(b)(2) under the 1940 Act and Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, prior to the termination of the offering, and any reports and other documents subsequently filed by the Fund with the SEC pursuant to Rule 30(b)(2) under the 1940 Act and Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date of the initial registration statement and prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement, are incorporated by reference into this Prospectus and deemed to be part of this Prospectus from the date of the filing of such reports and documents:

● the Trust's Statement of Additional Information, dated &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; , filed with this Prospectus ("SAI");

● the Trust's Annual Report on Form N-CSR for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024, filed with the SEC on [December 3, 2024](http://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) ("Annual Report");

● The Trust's Semi-Annual Report on Form N-CSRS for the period ended March 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on [June 6, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390025052112/ea0244248-01_ncsrs.htm) ("Semi-Annual Report");

● The Trust's current report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on [March 26, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000101376225002749/ea0235689-01_8k.htm) ;

● the Trust's definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A for its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, filed with the SEC on [May 8, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425009020/fp0093538-1_def14a.htm) ("Proxy Statement");

● the Trust's description of common shares contained in its Registration Statement on Form 8-A (File No. 001-38216) filed with the SEC on [September 22, 2017](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517291062/d446215d8a12b.htm) ; and

● The Trust's description of 2026 Preferred Shares contained in its Registration Statement on Form 8-A (File No. 001-38216) filed with the SEC on [March 26, 2021](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390021017871/s131323_8a12b.htm) .

To obtain copies of these filings, see "Where You Can Find More Information."

ii

**THE TRUST**

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust is a diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act. The Trust was organized as a statutory trust on April 4, 2017, pursuant to a Certificate of Trust, and is governed by the laws of the State of Delaware. The Trust commenced operations on September 27, 2017. The Trust's principal office is located at 321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430, Chicago, Illinois 60654, and its telephone number is (888) 903-3358.

XA Investments LLC serves as the Trust's investment adviser and is responsible for the management of the Trust. Octagon Credit Investors, LLC serves as the Trust's investment sub-adviser and is responsible for the management of the Trust's portfolio of securities.

**SUMMARY OF TRUST EXPENSES**

The information contained under the heading "Fees and Expenses" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS**

The unaudited financial highlights for the period ended March 31, 2025 are incorporated herein by reference to the Trust's [Semi-Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390025052112/ea0244248-01_ncsrs.htm). The financial highlights for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024, September 30, 2023, September 30, 2022 and September 30, 2021, and the report of Cohen & Company, Ltd., independent registered public accounting firm for the Trust thereon, are incorporated herein by reference to the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm). The financial highlights for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2020 are incorporated herein by reference to the Trust's Annual Report and have been derived from financial statements audited by the Trust's prior independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **For the Year Ended<br> September 30, 2019** | **For the Year Ended<br> September 30, 2018** | **For the Period September 27, 2017 <br> (Commencement of Operations) to<br> September 30, 2017** |
| **PER COMMON SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE:** |  |  |  |
| Net asset value - beginning of period | $9.50 | $9.78 | $9.78<sup>(1)</sup> |
| **INCOME/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net investment income/(loss)<sup>(2)</sup> | 0.89 | 0.64 | (0.00)<sup>(3)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net realized and unrealized loss on investments | (1.32) | (0.16) | – |
| **Total Income/(Loss) from Investment Operations** | (0.43) | 0.48 | (0.00)<sup>(3)</sup> |
| **DISTRIBUTIONS TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS:<sup>(4)</sup>** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From net investment income | (0.77) | (0.45) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From tax return of capital | (0.08) | (0.31) | – |
| **Total Distributions to Common Shareholders** | (0.85) | (0.76) | – |
| **CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Impact of Capital Share Transactions<sup>(2)</sup> | 0.00<sup>(3)</sup> | – | – |
| **Total Capital Share Transactions** | 0.00<sup>(3)</sup> | – | – |
| Net asset value per common share - end of period | $8.22 | $9.50 | $9.78 |
| Market price per common share - end of period | $8.95 | $9.80 | $10.12 |
| **Total Investment Return - Net Asset Value<sup>(5)</sup>** | (4.55%) | 5.22% | 0.00% |
| **Total Investment Return - Market Price<sup>(5)</sup>** | 0.75% | 4.89% | 1.20% |
| **RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:** |  |  |  |
| Net assets attributable to common shares, end of period (000s) | $78707 | $79322 | $70988 |
| Ratio of expenses excluding waivers to average net assets | 6.16% | 5.60% | 5.00%<sup>(6)</sup> |
| Ratio of expenses including waivers to average net assets | 5.22% | 4.87% | 2.20%<sup>(6)</sup> |
| Ratio of expenses excluding interest expense to average net assets | 3.27%<sup>(7)</sup> | 3.35%<sup>(7)</sup> | 2.20%<sup>(6)</sup> |
| Ratio of net investment income including waivers to average net assets | 10.03% | 6.57% | (2.20%)<sup>(6)</sup> |
| Portfolio turnover rate | 94% | 119% | 0% |
| **LEVERAGE FACILITY:** |  |  |  |
| Aggregate principal amount, end of period (000s) | $38965 | $38865 | $N/A |
| Asset coverage, end of period per $1,000 | $3020 | $3041 | $N/A |

---

<sup>(1)</sup> After deduction of offering expenses charged to capital.

<sup>(2)</sup> Calculated using average common shares outstanding.

<sup>(3)</sup> Less than $0.005 or greater than $(0.005) per share.

<sup>(4)</sup> The per share amounts of distributions related to net investment income and tax return of capital are based on amounts determined under U.S. federal income tax regulations which differs from the per share amounts from investment operations which are based on amounts determined under U.S. GAAP.

<sup>(5)</sup> Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of a common share at the opening on the first day and a sale at closing on the last day of each period reported. Dividends and distributions are assumed for purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Trust's dividend reinvestment plan. Total investment returns do not reflect brokerage commissions, if any, and are not annualized.

<sup>(6)</sup> Annualized.

<sup>(7)</sup> Includes amortization of deferred leverage costs.

**SENIOR SECURITIES**

The information contained under the heading "Notes to Financial Statements—10. Preferred Stock and Senior Securities" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

The Trust currently employs leverage through the combination of a bank borrowing facility and preferred shares outstanding. As of March 31, 2025, the amount of outstanding borrowings under the facility was $227,000,000, which represented approximately 29.96% of the Trust's Managed Assets. As of March 31, 2025, the outstanding 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares represented an aggregate liquidation preference of $30,000,000. The Trust also had 6.50% Series 2026 Preferred Shares outstanding with a total liquidation preference of $39,900,000. Total leverage was $296,900,000 as of March 31, 2025, representing 39.18% of the Trust's Managed Assets.

**USE OF PROCEEDS**

The Trust registered $377,747,000 aggregate initial offering price of Securities pursuant to the registration statement of which this Prospectus is a part. Unless otherwise specified in a Prospectus Supplement, the Trust intends to invest the net proceeds of an offering of Securities in accordance with its investment objective and policies as stated in this Prospectus. It is currently anticipated that the Trust will be able to invest substantially all of the net proceeds of an offering of Securities in accordance with its investment objective and policies within three months after the completion of such offering. Pending the full investment of the proceeds of an offering, it is anticipated that all or a portion of the proceeds will be invested in U.S. Government securities or high grade, short-term money market instruments, which have returns substantially lower than those the Trust anticipates earning once it has fully invested the proceeds of an offering in accordance with its investment objective. A delay in the anticipated use of proceeds could lower returns and reduce the Trust's distribution to holders of Common Shares ("Common Shareholders").

**MARKET AND NET ASSET VALUE INFORMATION**

The information contained under the heading "Market and Net Asset Value Information" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

The Trust's current outstanding Common Shares are, and the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus, will be, subject to notice of issuance, listed on the NYSE. The Trust's Common Shares commenced trading on the NYSE on September 27, 2017. In connection with any offering of Rights, the Trust will provide information in the Prospectus Supplement for the expected trading market, if any, for Rights.

The Common Shares have traded both at a premium and at a discount to the Trust's net asset value per share. Although the Common Shares often have traded at a premium to net asset value, there can be no assurance that this will continue after the offering nor that the Common Shares will not trade at a discount in the future. Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount to net asset value. The Trust's net asset value will be reduced immediately following an offering of the Common Shares due to the costs of such offering, which will be borne entirely by the Trust. The sale of Common Shares by the Trust (or the perception that such sales may occur) may have an adverse effect on prices of Common Shares in the secondary market. An increase in the number of Common Shares available may result in downward pressure on the market price for Common Shares.

The following table sets forth, for each of the periods indicated, the high and low closing market prices for the Common Shares on the NYSE, the net asset value per Common Share and the premium or discount to net asset value per Common Share at which the Common Shares were trading.

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Market Price** | **Market Price** | **Corresponding Net<br> Asset Value Per<br> Common Share** | **Corresponding Net<br> Asset Value Per<br> Common Share** | **Corresponding<br> Premium/(Discount)<br> as a Percentage of<br> Net Asset Value** | **Corresponding<br> Premium/(Discount)<br> as a Percentage of<br> Net Asset Value** |
| **Fiscal Quarter Ended** | **High** | **Low** | **High** | **Low** | **High** | **Low** |
| March 31, 2025 | $6.78 | $5.91 | $6.63 | $6.09 | 2.26% | -2.96% |
| December 31, 2024 | $7.15 | $6.37 | $6.66 | $6.63 | 7.36% | -3.92% |

---

As of June 6, 2025, the net asset value of the Fund's Common Shares was $6.07 per Common Share, and the last reported sale price for the Fund's Common Shares on the NYSE was $5.71 per Common Share, representing a discount to net asset value of 5.93%. As of June 6, 2025, 76,154,591 Common Shares of the Fund were outstanding.

The Fund cannot predict whether its Common Shares will trade in the future at a premium to or discount from net asset value, or the level of any premium or discount. Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount from net asset value.

**INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES**

The information contained under the following headings in the Trust's [Annual Report](http://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) are incorporated herein by reference: "Investment Objective and Policies—Investment Objective"; "Investment Objective and Policies—Investment Strategy"; and "Investment Objective and Policies—Investment Philosophy and Process."

**THE TRUST'S INVESTMENTS**

The information contained under the heading "Investment Objective and Policies—The Trust's Investments" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**USE OF LEVERAGE**

The information contained under the heading "Use of Leverage" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

The Trust currently employs leverage through the combination of a bank borrowing facility and preferred shares outstanding. As of March 31, 2025, the amount of outstanding borrowings under the facility was $227,000,000, which represented approximately 29.96% of the Trust's Managed Assets. As of March 31, 2025, the outstanding 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares represented an aggregate liquidation preference of $30,000,000. The Trust also had 6.50% Series 2026 Preferred Shares outstanding with a total liquidation preference of $39,900,000. Total leverage was $296,900,000 as of March 31, 2025, representing 39.18% of the Trust's Managed Assets.

**RISKS**

The information contained under the heading "Risks" in the Trust's Annual Report is incorporated herein by reference. Investors should consider the specific risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Trust. An investment in the Trust is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. A Prospectus Supplement relating to an offering of the Trust's securities may identify additional risk associated with such offering.

**MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST**

The information contained under the heading "Management of the Trust" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**NET ASSET VALUE**

The information contained under the heading "Net Asset Value" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**DISTRIBUTIONS**

The information contained under the heading "Notes to Financial Statements—Note 4. Distributions" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) and under the heading "Notes to Financial Statements—Note 4. Distributions" in the Trust's [Semi-Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390025052112/ea0244248-01_ncsrs.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN**

The information contained under the heading "Dividend Reinvestment Plan" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE**

The Trust is an unincorporated statutory trust organized under the laws of Delaware pursuant to a Certificate of Trust, dated as of April 4, 2017. The following is a brief description of the terms of the Common Shares, Indebtedness and Preferred Shares which may be issued by the Trust. This description is qualified by reference to the Trust's Certificate of Trust, Agreement and Declaration of Trust (the "Declaration of Trust") and By-Laws (collectively, the "Governing Documents").

**Common Shares**

Pursuant to the Declaration of Trust, the Trust is authorized to issue an unlimited number of Common Shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share. Each Common Share has one vote and, when issued and paid for in accordance with the terms of this offering, will be fully paid and non-assessable. All Common Shares are equal as to dividends, assets and voting privileges and have no conversion, preemptive or other subscription rights. The Trust will send annual and semi-annual reports, including the financial statements and financial highlights, to all holders of its shares.

Any additional offerings of Common Shares will require approval by the Board of Trustees. Any additional offering of Common Shares will be subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act, which provides that shares may not be issued at a price below the then current net asset value, exclusive of sales load, except in connection with an offering to existing Common Shareholders or with the consent of a majority of the Trust's outstanding voting securities.

The Trust's currently outstanding Common Shares are, and Common Shares offered by this Prospectus will be, listed on the NYSE under the symbol "XFLT."

The Trust's net asset value per Common Share generally increases and decreases based on the market value of the Trust's securities. Net asset value per Common Share will be reduced immediately following an offering of Common Shares by the amount of the sales load and offering expenses paid by the Trust. See "Use of Proceeds."

The Trust will not issue certificates for Common Shares.

*Issuance of Additional Common Shares.* The provisions of the 1940 Act, including Section 23(b) of the 1940 Act, generally require that the public offering price (less underwriting commissions and discounts) of common shares sold by a closed-end investment company must equal or exceed the net asset value of such company's common shares (calculated within 48 hours of the pricing of such offering), except, in pertinent part, (i) with the consent of a majority of its common shareholders; or (ii) in connection with an offering to the holders of one or more classes of its capital stock.

The Trust may, from time to time, seek the consent of Common Shareholders to permit the issuance and sale by the Trust of Common Shares at a price below the Trust's then-current net asset value, subject to certain conditions. If such consent is obtained, the Trust may, contemporaneous with and in no event more than one year following the receipt of such consent, sell Common Shares at price below net asset value in accordance with any conditions adopted in connection with the giving of such consent. Additional information regarding any consent of Common Shareholders obtained by the Trust and the applicable conditions imposed on the issuance and sale by the Trust of Common Shares at a price below net asset value will be disclosed in the Prospectus Supplement relating to any such offering of Common Shares at a price below net asset value. Until such consent of Common Shareholders, if any, is obtained, the Trust may not sell Common Shares at a price below net asset value. Because the Trust's advisory fee is based upon average Managed Assets, the Adviser's interest in recommending the issuance and sale of Common Shares at a price below net asset value may conflict with the interests of the Trust and its Common Shareholders.

The Trust may also issue and sell Common Shares at a price below the Trust's then-current net asset value in connection with an offering to the holders of its Common Shares pursuant to the issuance of subscription rights. See "Description of Subscription Rights."

**Preferred Shares**

The Trust's Governing Documents provide that the Board of Trustees may authorize and issue Preferred Shares with rights as determined by the Board of Trustees, by action of the Board of Trustees without prior approval of the holders of the Common Shares.

Common Shareholders have no preemptive right to purchase any Preferred Shares that might be issued. Any such Preferred Share offering would be subject to the limits imposed by the 1940 Act. Any Preferred Shares issued by the Trust would have special voting rights and a liquidation preference over the Common Shares. Issuance of Preferred Shares would constitute leverage and would entail special risks to the Common Shareholders.

Under the 1940 Act, the Trust may not issue Preferred Shares unless, immediately after such issuance, it has an "asset coverage" of at least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding Preferred Shares (i.e., such liquidation value may not exceed 50% of the value of the Trust's total assets). For these purposes, "asset coverage" means the ratio of (i) total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by "senior securities" to (ii) the amount of "senior securities representing indebtedness" plus the "involuntary liquidation preference" of the Preferred Shares. "Senior security" generally means any bond, note, or similar security evidencing indebtedness and any class of shares having priority over any other class as to distribution of assets or payment of dividends. "Senior security representing indebtedness" means any "senior security" other than equity shares. The "involuntary liquidation preference" of the Preferred Shares is the amount that holders of Preferred Shares would be entitled to receive in the event of an involuntary liquidation of the Trust in preference to the Common Shares.

In addition, the Trust is not permitted to declare any dividend (except a dividend payable in Common Shares), or to declare any other distribution on the Common Shares, or to purchase any Common Shares, unless the Preferred Shares have at the time of the declaration of any such dividend or other distribution, or at the time of any such purchase of Common Shares, an asset coverage of at least 200% after deducting the amount of such dividend, distribution or purchase price. If Preferred Shares are issued, the Trust intends, to the extent possible, to purchase or redeem Preferred Shares from time to time to the extent necessary to maintain asset coverage of any Preferred Shares of at least 200%.

If Preferred Shares are outstanding, two of the Trust's Trustees will be elected by the holders of Preferred Shares, voting separately as a class. The remaining Trustees of the Trust will be elected by Common Shareholders and Preferred Shares voting together as a single class. In the unlikely event the Trust failed to pay dividends on Preferred Shares for two years, Preferred Shares would be entitled to elect a majority of the Trustees of the Trust.

The Trust may be subject to certain restrictions imposed by guidelines of one or more rating agencies that may issue ratings for Preferred Shares issued by the Trust. These guidelines may impose asset coverage or portfolio composition requirements that are more stringent than those imposed on the Trust by the 1940 Act.

*2026 Preferred Shares*.

The 2026 Preferred Shares have a liquidation preference of $25 per share. In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Trust's affairs, holders of 2026 Preferred Shares will be entitled to receive a liquidating distribution per share equal to the liquidation preference, plus an amount equal to all unpaid dividends and distributions on such share accumulated to (but excluding) the date fixed for distribution or payment, whether or not earned or declared by us, but excluding interest on any such distribution or payment.

The 2026 Preferred Shares pay a quarterly dividend at a fixed annual rate of 6.50% of the liquidation preference, or $1.625 per share, per year. The dividend rate is subject to adjustment under certain circumstances.

Cumulative cash dividends or distributions on each 2026 Preferred Share are payable quarterly, when, as and if declared, or under authority granted, by the Board of Trustees of the Trust out of funds legally available for such payment. The Trust will pay dividends on the 2026 Preferred Shares every January 31, April 30, July 31 and October 31, commencing July 31, 2021.

The 2026 Preferred Shares are senior securities that constitute shares of beneficial interest of the Trust. The 2026 Preferred Shares rank senior to the Common Shares in priority of payment of dividends and as to the distribution of assets upon dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the Trust's affairs; equal in priority with all other future series of Preferred Shares the Trust may issue as to priority of payment of dividends and as to distributions of assets upon dissolution, liquidation or the winding-up of the Trust's affairs; and subordinate in right of payment to amounts owed under the Credit Agreement, and to the holder of any future senior Indebtedness.

The Trust is required to redeem, out of funds legally available therefor, all outstanding 2026 Preferred Shares on March 31, 2026, or the "Term Redemption Date," at a price equal to the liquidation preference plus an amount equal to accumulated but unpaid dividends and distributions, if any, on such shares (whether or not earned or declared, but excluding interest on such dividends) to, but excluding, the Term Redemption Date.

If the Trust fails to maintain asset coverage of at least 200% as of the close of business on the last Business Day of a calendar quarter, and such failure is not cured by the close of business on the date that is thirty (30) calendar days following the date of filing of the Trust's Annual Report or Semi-Annual Report on Form N-CSR with respect to the Trust's fourth and second fiscal quarters, respectively, and the applicable monthly report on Form N-PORT filed by the Trust with the SEC with respect to the fiscal period ending as of the last day of such calendar quarter with respect to the Trust's first and third fiscal quarters (such date the "Asset Coverage Cure Date"), then the Trust is required to redeem, within ninety (90) calendar days of the Asset Coverage Cure Date, such number of Preferred Shares equal to the lesser of (1) the minimum number of Preferred Shares the redemption of which, if deemed to have occurred immediately prior to the opening of business on the Asset Coverage Cure Date that will result in the Trust having an asset coverage ratio of at least 200% and (2) the maximum number of Preferred Shares that can be redeemed out of funds legally available for such redemption. In addition to Preferred Shares required to be redeemed, at the Trust's sole discretion, the Trust may redeem such number of Preferred Shares (including Preferred Shares required to be redeemed) that will result in the Trust having an asset coverage ratio of up to and including 285%. The Preferred Shares to be redeemed may include, at the Trust's sole option, any number or proportion of the 2026 Preferred Shares and other series of Preferred Shares. If the 2026 Preferred Shares are to be redeemed in such an event, they will be redeemed at a redemption price equal to the liquidation preference per share plus accumulated but unpaid dividends, if any, on such liquidation preference (whether or not declared, but excluding interest on accrued but unpaid dividends, if any) to, but excluding, the date fixed for such redemption.

At any time on or after March 31, 2023, at the Trust's sole option, the Trust may redeem, from time to time, the 2026 Preferred Shares in whole or in part, out of funds legally available for such redemption, at a price per share equal to the sum of the liquidation preference plus an amount equal to accumulated but unpaid dividends, if any, on such shares (whether or not earned or declared, but excluding interest on such dividends) to, but excluding, the date fixed for such redemption.

Except as otherwise provided in the Trust's Declaration of Trust, as supplemented by the Trust's Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares, and the Trust's By-Laws or as otherwise required by law, (1) each holder of Preferred Shares is entitled to one vote for each 2026 Preferred Share held by such holder on each matter submitted to a vote of the Trust's shareholders and (2) the holders of all outstanding Preferred Shares, including the 2026 Preferred Shares and any other series of Preferred Shares the Trust may issue in the future, and Common Shares of the Trust will vote together as a single class; provided that holders of Preferred Shares, including the 2026 Preferred Shares and any other series of Preferred Shares the Trust may issue in the future, voting separately as a class, will elect two of the Trustees of the Trust and will be entitled to elect a majority of the Trustees if the Trust fails to pay dividends on any outstanding Preferred Shares, including the 2026 Preferred Shares, in an amount equal to two full years of dividends and continuing during that period until the Trust corrects that failure. Holders of Preferred Shares will also vote separately as a class on any matter that materially and adversely affects any preference, right or power of holders of Preferred Shares.

The 2026 Preferred Shares have no conversion rights.

The 2026 Preferred Shares are listed on the NYSE under the symbol "XFLTPRA." As of January 17, 2025, the last reported sales price of the Trust's 2026 Preferred Shares on the NYSE was $25.02 per 2026 Preferred Share.

The foregoing description of the Trust's 2026 Preferred Shares is subject to, and qualified by reference to, the Trust's Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares, as amended through the date hereof, and including the appendices thereto, incorporated by reference as exhibits to the Registration Statement. You may obtain a copy of the Trust's Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares as described under "Where You Can Find More Information."

*6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares.* 

 

The 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares have a liquidation preference of $25.00 per share. In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Trust's affairs, holders of 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares will be entitled to receive a liquidating distribution per share equal to the liquidation preference, plus an amount equal to all unpaid dividends and distributions on such share accumulated to (but excluding) the date fixed for distribution or payment, whether or not earned or declared by the Trust, but excluding interest on any such distribution or payment.

The 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares pay a quarterly dividend at a fixed annual rate of 6.95% of the liquidation preference, or $1.7375 per share, per year. The dividend rate is subject to adjustment under certain circumstances.

Cumulative cash dividends or distributions on each 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Share are payable quarterly, when, as and if declared, or under authority granted, by the Board of Trustees of the Trust out of funds legally available for such payment. The Trust will pay dividends on the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares every January 31, April 30, July 31 and October 31, commencing on the first such date to occur following the initial issuance of the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares.

The 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares are senior securities that constitute shares of beneficial interest of the Trust. The 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares rank senior to the Trust's Common Shares in priority of payment of dividends and as to the distribution of assets upon dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the Trust's affairs; equal in priority with the Trust's Series 2026 Preferred Shares and the Trust's 6.95% Series 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares, liquidation preference $25.00 and all other future series of preferred shares the Trust may issue as to priority of payment of dividends and as to distributions of assets upon dissolution, liquidation or the winding-up of the Trust's affairs; and subordinate in right of payment to amounts owed under the credit agreement, dated October 6, 2017, as amended from time to time, between the Trust and Société Générale, and to the holder of any future senior indebtedness.

The Trust is required to redeem, out of funds legally available therefor, all outstanding 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares on December 31, 2029, or the "Term Redemption Date," at a price equal to the liquidation preference plus an amount equal to accumulated but unpaid dividends and distributions, if any, on such shares (whether or not earned or declared, but excluding interest on such dividends) to, but excluding, the Term Redemption Date.

If the Trust fails to maintain asset coverage of at least 200% as of the close of business on the last Business Day of a calendar quarter, and such failure is not cured by the close of business on the date that is thirty (30) calendar days following the date of filing of the Trust's Annual Report or Semi-Annual Report on Form N-CSR with respect to the Trust's fourth and second fiscal quarters, respectively, and the applicable monthly report on Form N-PORT filed by the Trust with the SEC with respect to the fiscal period ending as of the Asset Coverage Cure Date, then the Trust is required to redeem, within ninety (90) calendar days of the Asset Coverage Cure Date, such number of Preferred Shares equal to the lesser of (1) the minimum number of Preferred Shares the redemption of which, if deemed to have occurred immediately prior to the opening of business on the Asset Coverage Cure Date that will result in the Trust having an asset coverage ratio of at least 200% and (2) the maximum number of Preferred Shares that can be redeemed out of funds legally available for such redemption. In addition to Preferred Shares required to be redeemed, at the Trust's sole discretion, the Trust may redeem such number of Preferred Shares (including Preferred Shares required to be redeemed) that will result in the Trust having an asset coverage ratio of up to and including 285%. The Preferred Shares to be redeemed may include, at the Trust's sole option, any number or proportion of the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares and other series of Preferred Shares. If the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares are to be redeemed in such an event, they will be redeemed at a redemption price equal to the liquidation preference per share plus accumulated but unpaid dividends, if any, on such liquidation preference (whether or not declared, but excluding interest on accrued but unpaid dividends, if any) to, but excluding, the date fixed for such redemption.

At any time on or after December 13, 2025, at the Trust's sole option, the Trust may redeem, from time to time, the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares in whole or in part, out of funds legally available for such redemption, at a price per share equal to the sum of the liquidation preference plus an amount equal to accumulated but unpaid dividends, if any, on such shares (whether or not earned or declared, but excluding interest on such dividends) to, but excluding, the date fixed for such redemption.

Each holder of a 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Share shall have the right, at such holder's option, to convert any such 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Share, at any time on or after the date six months after the issuance date of the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Share and prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding the Term Redemption Date, into such number of Common Shares equal to the liquidation preference of the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Share plus an amount equal to all unpaid dividends and distributions on such Share accumulated to (but excluding) the date of exercise, divided by the Conversion Price. The "Conversion Price" is the greater of (i) the market price per Common Share, represented by the arithmetic average of the VWAP per Common Share for each of the five consecutive trading days immediately preceding the date of exercise, or (ii) the Trust's most recently reported net asset value per Common Share immediately prior to the date of exercise. If the Trust fails to fulfill its obligations to deliver Common Shares upon conversion of any 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares, the quarterly dividend rate payable on the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares of any sub-series of which one or more shares was surrendered for conversion on such exercise date will increase to a fixed annual rate of 8.95% of the liquidation preference until the date on which the Trust fulfills its delivery obligations.

The Trust is required to redeem the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares at the liquidation preference, plus any accumulated and unpaid dividends thereon (whether or not authorized or declared) to, but excluding, the redemption date, if the Common Shares are no longer publicly traded on the NYSE, the Nasdaq Capital Market, the Nasdaq Global Select Market or the Nasdaq Global Market for a period of twenty (20) consecutive trading days.

In the case of a consolidation, merger or sale of all or substantially all of the Trust's assets to another closed-end fund or business development company, the Trust must redeem the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares at $25.00, plus any accumulated and unpaid dividends thereon (whether or not authorized or declared) to, but excluding, the redemption date unless (i) the successor entity's common shares are publicly traded on the NYSE, the Nasdaq Capital Market, the Nasdaq Global Select Market or the Nasdaq Global Market and have average daily trading volume over the 90 days immediately preceding approval of the transaction by the Board of Trustees of the Trust that is equal to or greater than the average daily trading volume of the Common Shares over such period; and (ii) if the Trust is not the successor entity, the successor entity issues to the holders of 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares preferred shares with terms that are substantially identical to the terms of the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares.

For so long as the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares are outstanding, the purchasers of 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares have agreed not to sell in any day, in the aggregate, an amount of Common Shares exceeding the greater of (i) 20% of the previous 20 trading days' average trading volume and (ii) 20% of the current trading day's trading volume.

The 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares were sold in a transaction exempt from registration pursuant to 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and are not listed on any exchange and may not be transferred without the consent of the Trust.

The following description of the Trust's 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares is subject to, and qualified by reference to, the Trust's Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares, as amended through the date hereof, and including the appendices thereto, incorporated by reference as exhibits to the Registration Statement. You may obtain a copy of the Trust's Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares as described under "Where You Can Find More Information."

**Indebtedness**

The Trust's Declaration of Trust provides that the Board of Trustees may authorize the borrowing of money by the Trust, without the approval of the holders of the Common Shares. The Trust may issue notes or other evidences of indebtedness (including bank borrowings or commercial paper) and may secure any such borrowings by mortgaging, pledging or otherwise subjecting the Trust's assets as security.

Under the 1940 Act, the Trust may not incur Indebtedness if, immediately after incurring such Indebtedness, the Trust would have an asset coverage (as defined in the 1940 Act) of less than 300% (i.e., the value of the Trust's total assets less liabilities other than the principal amount represented by Indebtedness must be at least 300% of the principal amount represented by Indebtedness at the time of issuance). In addition, the Trust generally is not permitted to declare any cash dividend or other distribution on the Common Shares unless, at the time of such declaration and after deducting the amount of such dividend or other distribution, the Trust maintains asset coverage of 300%. However, the foregoing restriction does not apply with respect to certain types of Indebtedness of the Trust, including a line of credit or other privately arranged borrowings from a financial institution. If the Trust utilizes Indebtedness, the Trust intends, to the extent possible, to prepay all or a portion of the principal amount of any outstanding Indebtedness to the extent necessary to maintain the required asset coverage. The Trust may also utilize Indebtedness in excess of such limit for temporary purposes such as the settlement of transactions.

The terms of any such Indebtedness may require the Trust to pay a fee to maintain a line of credit, such as a commitment fee, or to maintain minimum average balances with a lender. Any such requirements would increase the cost of such Indebtedness over the stated interest rate. Such lenders would have the right to receive interest on and repayment of principal of any such Indebtedness, which right will be senior to those of the Common Shareholders. Any such Indebtedness may contain provisions limiting certain activities of the Trust, including the payment of dividends to Common Shareholders in certain circumstances. Any Indebtedness will likely be ranked senior or equal to all other existing and future Indebtedness of the Trust. If the Trust utilizes Indebtedness, the Common Shareholders will bear the offering costs of the issuance of any Indebtedness.

Certain types of Indebtedness subject the Trust to covenants in credit agreements relating to asset coverage and portfolio composition requirements. Certain Indebtedness issued by the Trust also may subject the Trust to certain restrictions on investments imposed by guidelines of one or more rating agencies, which may issue ratings for such Indebtedness. Such guidelines may impose asset coverage or portfolio composition requirements that are more stringent than those imposed by the 1940 Act. It is not anticipated that these covenants or guidelines will impede the Adviser from managing the Trust's portfolio in accordance with the Trust's investment objective and policies.

The 1940 Act grants to the lenders to the Trust, under certain circumstances, certain voting rights in the event of default in the payment of interest on or repayment of principal. Failure to maintain certain asset coverage requirements could result in an event of default and entitle the debt holders to elect a majority of the Board of Trustees.

On March 21, 2025 (the "Closing Date"), the Trust entered into a Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") between the Trust, as the borrower, and BNP Paribas SA, as the bank (the "Bank"). The Credit Agreement replaces the Trust's existing Credit Agreement, dated as of October 6, 2017 (as amended, restated, amended and restated, supplemented or otherwise modified through the Closing Date, the "Existing Credit Agreement"), by and between the Trust and Société Générale, as lender and administrative agent. The Existing Credit Agreement was terminated substantially concurrently with the Trust's entry into the Credit Agreement and all outstanding amounts and commitments thereunder have been repaid in full and terminated.

The Credit Agreement provides for a senior secured revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility") in an aggregate principal amount of $300,000,000, scheduled to terminate on March 19, 2027, or such later date as the Trust and the Bank may agree pursuant to the Credit Agreement. Loans under the Revolving Credit Facility will bear interest at a per annum rate based on SOFR plus a margin of 1.48%. The Trust will also pay a commitment fee on unused commitments, payable quarterly, at a per annum rate equal to (x) at all times when the principal obligations are greater than 75% of the commitments, 0.00%, and (y) at all other times, 0.55%.

The obligations of the Trust under the Revolving Credit Facility are secured by substantially all of the assets of the Trust. The Credit Agreement contains affirmative and negative covenants that are customary for a senior secured credit agreement. The negative covenants include, among other things, limitations on indebtedness, liens, mergers, dividends and investments. The Credit Agreement includes usual and customary events of default for credit facilities of this nature.

On the Closing Date, the Trust borrowed $237 million under the Credit Agreement, substantially all of which was used to fully repay outstanding borrowings under the Existing Credit Agreement.

As of March 31, 2025, the amount of outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement was $227 million, which represented approximately 29.96% of the Trust's Managed Assets.

**Capitalization**

The following information regarding the Trust's authorized shares is as of March 31, 2025:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Title of Class** | **Amount Authorized** | **Amount Held by Trust for its own Account** | **Amount Outstanding Exclusive of Amounts held by Trust** |
| Common Shares of Beneficial Interest | Unlimited |  | 75706975 |
| 6.50% 2026 Term Preferred Shares <br> (Liquidation Preference $25.00) | 1596000 |  | 1596000 |
| 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares (Liquidation Preference $25.00) | 1800000 |  | 1200000 |

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**DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED SHARES**

The Trust's Governing Documents provide that the Board of Trustees may authorize and issue Preferred Shares with rights as determined by the Board of Trustees, by action of the Board of Trustees without prior approval of the holders of the Common Shares.

Under the 1940 Act, the Trust may not issue Preferred Shares unless, immediately after such issuance, it has an "asset coverage" of at least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding Preferred Shares (i.e., such liquidation value may not exceed 50% of the value of the Trust's total assets). For these purposes, "asset coverage" means the ratio of (i) total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by "senior securities" to (ii) the amount of "senior securities representing indebtedness" plus the "involuntary liquidation preference" of the Preferred Shares. "Senior security" generally means any bond, note, or similar security evidencing indebtedness and any class of shares having priority over any other class as to distribution of assets or payment of dividends. "Senior security representing indebtedness" means any "senior security" other than equity shares. The "involuntary liquidation preference" of the Preferred Shares is the amount that holders of Preferred Shares would be entitled to receive in the event of an involuntary liquidation of the Trust in preference to the Common Shares.

While Preferred Shares are outstanding, two of the Trust's Trustees will be elected by the holders of Preferred Shares, voting separately as a class. The remaining Trustees of the Trust will be elected by Common Shareholders and Preferred Shares voting together as a single class. In the unlikely event the Trust failed to pay dividends on Preferred Shares for two years, Preferred Shares would be entitled to elect a majority of the Trustees of the Trust.

For any series of Preferred Shares issued by the Trust, our Board of Trustees will determine and the Prospectus Supplement relating to such issuance, which will accompany this Prospectus, will describe:

● the designation and number of Preferred Shares of such series;

● the rate and time at which, and the preferences and conditions under which, any dividends will be paid on Preferred Shares of such series, the cumulative nature of such dividends and whether such dividends have any participating feature;

● any provisions relating to convertibility or exchangeability of the Preferred Shares of such series, including the conversion price or exchange ratio (or the calculation method), the conversion or exchange period (or how the period will be determined), if conversion or exchange will be mandatory or at the option of the holder or the Trust, provisions for adjusting the conversion price or the exchange ratio and provisions affecting conversion or exchange in the event of the redemption of the underlying securities;

● the rights and preferences, if any, of holders of Preferred Shares of such series upon our liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs;

● the voting powers of the holders of Preferred Shares of such series;

● any provisions relating to the redemption of the Preferred Shares of such series;

● any limitations on the Trust's ability to pay dividends or make distributions on, or acquire or redeem, other securities while Preferred Shares of such series are outstanding;

● any conditions or restrictions on the Trust's ability to issue additional Preferred Shares of such series or other securities while Preferred Shares of such series are outstanding;

● if applicable, a discussion of certain U.S. Federal income tax considerations; and

● any other relative power, preferences and participating, optional or special rights of Preferred Shares of such series, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof.

All Preferred Shares that the Trust may issue will be identical and of equal rank except as to the particular terms thereof that may be fixed by the Board of Trustees, and all shares of each series of Preferred Shares will be identical and of equal rank except as to the dates from which cumulative dividends thereon will be cumulative. Preferred Share investors should read the applicable accompanying prospectus supplement, as well as the statement of preferences that contains the terms of the applicable series of preferred stock.

**DESCRIPTION OF SUBSCRIPTION RIGHTS**

The Trust may issue subscription rights to holders of (i) Common Shares to purchase Common Shares and/or Preferred Shares or (ii) Preferred Shares to purchase Preferred Shares. Subscription rights may be issued independently or together with any other offered security and may or may not be transferable by the person purchasing or receiving the subscription rights. In connection with a subscription rights offering to holders of Common Shares and/or Preferred Shares, the Trust would distribute certificates evidencing the subscription rights and a Prospectus Supplement to our common or preferred shareholders as of the record date that we set for determining the shareholders eligible to receive subscription rights in such subscription rights offering. For terms of the subscription rights, please refer to the actual terms of such subscription rights which will be set forth in the subscription rights agreement relating to such subscription rights and described in the Prospectus Supplement.

The Trust generally may not issue and sell Common Shares at a public offering price (less underwriting commissions and discounts) less than the net asset value of the Trust's Common Shares (calculated within 48 hours of the pricing of such offering). However, pursuant to Section 23(b) of the 1940 Act, the Trust may issue and sell Common Shares at a public offering price less than the net asset value of the Trust's Common Shares in connection with the issuance of subscription rights to holders of Common Shares to purchase additional Common Shares. See "Description of Capital Structure."

The applicable Prospectus Supplement, which would accompany this Prospectus, would describe the following terms of subscription rights in respect of which this Prospectus is being delivered:

● the period of time the offering would remain open (which will be open a minimum number of days such that all record holders would be eligible to participate in the offering and will not be open longer than 120 days);

● the title of such subscription rights;

● the exercise price for such subscription rights (or method of calculation thereof);

● the number of such subscription rights issued in respect of each share;

● the number of rights required to purchase a single share;

● the extent to which such subscription rights are transferable and the market on which they may be traded if they are transferable;

● if applicable, a discussion of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to the issuance or exercise of such subscription rights;

● the date on which the right to exercise such subscription rights will commence, and the date on which such right will expire (subject to any extension);

● the extent to which such subscription rights include an over-subscription privilege with respect to unsubscribed securities and the terms of such over-subscription privilege;

● any termination right the Trust may have in connection with such subscription rights offering;

● the expected trading market, if any, for rights; and

● any other terms of such subscription rights, including exercise, settlement and other procedures and limitations relating to the transfer and exercise of such subscription rights.

**Exercise of Subscription Rights**

Each subscription right would entitle the holder of the subscription right to purchase for cash such number of shares at such exercise price as in each case is set forth in, or be determinable as set forth in the Prospectus Supplement relating to the subscription rights offered thereby. Subscription rights would be exercisable at any time up to the close of business on the expiration date for such subscription rights set forth in the Prospectus Supplement. After the close of business on the expiration date, all unexercised subscription rights would become void.

Upon expiration of the rights offering and the receipt of payment and the subscription rights certificate properly completed and duly executed at the corporate trust office of the subscription rights agent or any other office indicated in the Prospectus Supplement, the Trust would issue, as soon as practicable, the shares purchased as a result of such exercise. To the extent permissible under applicable law, the Trust may determine to offer any unsubscribed offered securities directly to persons other than shareholders, to or through agents, underwriters or dealers or through a combination of such methods, as set forth in the applicable Prospectus Supplement.

**Transferable Rights Offering**

Subscription rights issued by the Trust may be transferrable. The distribution to shareholders of transferable rights, which may themselves have intrinsic value, also will afford non-participating shareholders the potential of receiving cash payment upon the sale of the rights, receipt of which may be viewed as partial compensation for any dilution of their interests that may occur as a result of the rights offering. In a transferrable rights offering, management of the Trust will use its best efforts to ensure an adequate trading market in the rights for use by shareholders who do not exercise such rights. However, there can be no assurance that a market for transferable rights will develop or, if such a market does develop, what the price of the transferable rights will be. In a transferrable rights offering to purchase Common Shares at a price below net asset value, the subscription ratio will not be less than 1-for-3, that is the holders of Common Shares of record on the record date of the rights offering will receive one right for each outstanding Common Share owned on the record date and the rights will entitle their holders to purchase one new Common Share for every three rights held (provided that any Common Shareholder who owns fewer than three Common Shares as of the record date may subscribe for one full Common Share). Assuming the exercise of all rights, such a rights offering would result in an approximately 33 <sup>1</sup> /<sub> 3</sub>% increase in the Fund's Common Shares outstanding.

**ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS IN THE TRUST'S GOVERNING DOCUMENTS**

The Trust presently has provisions in its Governing Documents which could have the effect of limiting, in each case, (i) the ability of other entities or persons to acquire control of the Trust, (ii) the Trust's freedom to engage in certain transactions or (iii) the ability of the Trust's Board of Trustees or shareholders to amend the Governing Documents or effectuate changes in the Trust's management. These provisions of the Governing Documents of the Trust may be regarded as "anti-takeover" provisions. The Board of Trustees is divided into three classes, with the terms of one class expiring at each annual meeting of shareholders. At each annual meeting, one class of Trustees is elected to a three-year term. This provision could delay for up to two years the replacement of a majority of the Board of Trustees. A Trustee may be removed from office by the action of 80% of the remaining Trustees or a majority of the remaining Trustees followed by a vote of the holders of at least 75% of the shares then entitled to vote for the election of the respective Trustee.

The Declaration of Trust requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees followed by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 75% of the outstanding shares of each affected class or series of the Trust, voting separately as a class or series, to approve, adopt or authorize certain transactions with 5% or greater holders of a class or series of shares and their associates, unless the transaction has been approved by at least 80% of the Board of Trustees, in which case "a majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust shall be required. For purposes of these provisions, a 5% or greater holder of a class or series of shares (a "Principal Shareholder") refers to any person who, whether directly or indirectly and whether alone or together with its affiliates and associates, beneficially owns 5% or more of the outstanding shares of any class or series of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust.

The 5% holder transactions subject to these special approval requirements are:

● the merger or consolidation of the Trust or any subsidiary of the Trust with or into any Principal Shareholder;

● the issuance of any securities of the Trust to any Principal Shareholder for cash (other than pursuant to any automatic dividend reinvestment plan);

● the sale, lease or exchange of all or any substantial part of the assets of the Trust to any Principal Shareholder, except assets having an aggregate fair market value of less than $1,000,000, aggregating for the purpose of such computation all assets sold, leased or exchanged in any series of similar transactions within a twelve-month period; or

● the sale, lease or exchange to the Trust or any subsidiary of the Trust, in exchange for securities of the Trust, of any assets of any Principal Shareholder, except assets having an aggregate fair market value of less than $1,000,000, aggregating for purposes of such computation all assets sold, leased or exchanged in any series of similar transactions within a twelve-month period.

For the purposes of calculating "a majority of the outstanding voting securities" under the Declaration of Trust, each class and series of the Trust shall vote together as a single class, except to the extent required by the 1940 Act or the Declaration of Trust with respect to any class or series of shares. If a separate vote is required, the applicable proportion of shares of the class or series, voting as a separate class or series, also will be required. A "majority of the outstanding voting securities" means the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the Trust's voting securities present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities are present or represented by proxy; or (ii) more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities.

The Board of Trustees has determined that provisions with respect to the Board and shareholder voting requirements described above, which voting requirements are greater than the minimum requirements under Delaware law or the 1940 Act, are in the best interest of shareholders generally. Reference should be made to the Declaration of Trust on file with the SEC for the full text of these provisions. See "Additional Information."

**Delaware Statutory Trust Act – Control Share Acquisitions**

Because the Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust, it is subject to the control share acquisition statute (the "Control Share Statute") contained in Subchapter III of the Delaware Statutory Trust Act (the "DSTA"), which became automatically applicable to listed closed-end funds, such as the Trust, upon its effective date of August 1, 2022 (the "Effective Date").

The Control Share Statute provides for a series of voting power thresholds above which shares are considered control shares. These thresholds are:

● 10% or more, but less than 15% of all voting power;

● 15% or more, but less than 20% of all voting power;

● 20% or more, but less than 25% of all voting power;

● 25% or more, but less than 30% of all voting power;

● 30% or more, but less than a majority of all voting power; or

● a majority of all voting power.

Voting power is defined by the Control Share Statute as the power to directly or indirectly exercise or direct the exercise of the voting power of Trust shares in the election of trustees. Whether a voting power threshold is met is determined by aggregating the holdings of the acquirer as well as those of its "associates," as defined by the Control Share Statute.

Once a threshold is reached, an acquirer has no voting rights under the DSTA or the governing documents of the Trust with by the Board of Trustees. Approval by shareholders requires the affirmative vote of two-thirds of all votes entitled to be cast on the matter, excluding shares held by the acquirer and its associates as well as shares held by certain insiders of the Trust. The Control Share Statute provides procedures for an acquirer to request a shareholder meeting for the purpose of considering whether voting rights shall be accorded to control shares. Further approval by the Trust's shareholders would be required with respect to additional acquisitions of control shares above the next applicable threshold level.

The Control Share Statute effectively allows non-interested shareholders to evaluate the intentions and plans of an acquiring person above each threshold level.

Alternatively, the Board of Trustees is permitted, but not obligated, to exempt specific acquisitions or classes of acquisitions of control shares, either in advance or retroactively. The Board of Trustees has considered the Control Share Statute. As of the date hereof, the Board of Trustees has not received notice of the occurrence of a control share acquisition nor has been requested to exempt any acquisition. Therefore, the Board of Trustees has not determined whether the application of the Control Share Statute to an acquisition of Trust shares is in the best interest of the Trust and its shareholders and has not exempted, and has no present intention to exempt, any acquisition or of class of acquisitions.

The Control Share Statute does not retroactively apply to acquisitions of shares that occurred prior to the Effective Date. However, such shares will be aggregated with any shares acquired after the Effective Date for purposes of determining whether a voting power threshold is exceeded, resulting in the newly acquired shares constituting control shares.

The Control Share Statute requires shareholders to disclose to the Trust any control share acquisition within 10 days of such acquisition and, upon request, to provide any information that the Board of Trustees reasonably believes is necessary or desirable to determine whether a control share acquisition has occurred.

Some uncertainty around the general application under the 1940 Act of state control share statutes exists as a result of recent federal and state court decisions that have found that certain control share by-laws adopted by certain closed-end funds and the opting in by certain closed-end funds to state control share statutes violated the 1940 Act. Additionally, in some circumstances uncertainty may also exist in how to enforce the control share restrictions contained in state control share statutes against beneficial owners who hold their shares through financial intermediaries. The Board of Trustees has considered the Control Share Statute and the uncertainty around the general application under the 1940 Act of the state control share statutes and enforcement of state control share statues. The Board of Trustees intends to continue to monitor developments relating to the Control Share Statute and the state control share statutes generally.

The foregoing is only a summary of certain aspects of the Control Share Statute. Shareholders should consult their own legal counsel to determine the application of the Control Share Statute with respect to their shares of the Trust and any subsequent acquisitions of shares. Some uncertainty around the general application under the 1940 Act of the state of control share statutes exists as a result of recent court decisions. Additionally, in some circumstances uncertainty may also exist in how to enforce the control share restrictions contained in state control share statutes against beneficial owners who hold their shares through financial intermediaries.

**Closed-End Fund Structure**

Closed-end funds differ from open-end management investment companies (commonly referred to as "mutual funds") in that closed-end funds generally list their shares for trading on a securities exchange and do not redeem their shares at the option of the shareholder. By comparison, mutual funds issue securities redeemable at net asset value at the option of the shareholder and typically engage in a continuous offering of their shares. Mutual funds are subject to continuous asset in-flows and out-flows that can complicate portfolio management, whereas closed-end funds generally can stay more fully invested in securities consistent with the closed-end fund's investment objective and policies. In addition, in comparison to open-end funds, closed-end funds have greater flexibility in their ability to make certain types of investments, including investments in illiquid securities.

However, shares of closed-end funds listed for trading on a securities exchange frequently trade at a discount from net asset value, but in some cases trade at a premium. The market price may be affected by trading volume of the shares, general market and economic conditions and other factors beyond the control of the closed-end fund. The foregoing factors may result in the market price of the Common Shares being greater than, less than or equal to net asset value. The Board of Trustees has reviewed the structure of the Trust in light of its investment objective and policies and has determined that the closed-end structure is in the best interests of the shareholders. Investors should assume, therefore, that it is unlikely that the Board of Trustees would vote to convert the Trust to an open-end management investment company.

**Repurchase of Common Shares**

The Board of Trustees will review periodically the trading range and activity of the Trust's shares with respect to its net asset value and the Board of Trustees may take certain actions to seek to reduce or eliminate any such discount. Such actions may include open market repurchases or tender offers for the Common Shares at net asset value. There can be no assurance that the Board of Trustees will decide to undertake any of these actions or that, if undertaken, such actions would result in the Common Shares trading at a price equal to or close to net asset value per Common Share.

**Conversion to Open-End Fund**

To convert the Trust to an open-end management investment company, the Declaration of Trust requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees followed by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 75% of the outstanding shares of each affected class or series of shares of the Trust, voting separately as a class or series, unless such action has been approved by at least 80% of the Board of Trustees, in which case "a majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust shall be required. The foregoing vote would satisfy a separate requirement in the 1940 Act that any conversion of the Trust to an open-end management investment company be approved by the shareholders. If approved in the foregoing manner, conversion of the Trust to an open-end management investment company could not occur until 90 days after the shareholders' meeting at which such conversion was approved and would require at least 30 days' prior notice to all shareholders.

In the event of conversion, the Common Shares would cease to be listed on the NYSE or other national securities exchange or market system. If the Trust were converted to an open-end management investment company, it is likely that new Common Shares would be sold at net asset value plus a sales load. Shareholders of an open-end management investment company may require the company to redeem their shares at any time (except in certain circumstances as authorized by or under the 1940 Act) at their net asset value, less such redemption charge, if any, as might be in effect at the time of a redemption. In the event of conversion, the Trust would expect to pay all such redemption requests in cash, but would intend to reserve the right to pay redemption requests in a combination of cash or securities. If such partial payment in securities were made, investors could incur brokerage costs in converting such securities to cash.

The Board of Trustees has reviewed the structure of the Trust in light of its investment objective and policies and has determined that the closed-end structure is in the best interests of the shareholders. Any conversion to an open-end management investment company would require material changes to the Trust's investment strategy, including with respect to the use of leverage and investment in illiquid securities, which may adversely impact the Trust's ability to achieve its investment objective. Investors should assume, therefore, that it is unlikely that the Board of Trustees would vote to convert the Trust to an open-end management investment company.

**TAX MATTERS**

The following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations generally applicable to the Trust and U.S. Shareholders (as defined below) and Non-U.S. Shareholders (as defined below) that acquire Common Shares or Preferred Shares (collectively, the "Shareholders" that acquire "Shares") and that hold such Shares as capital assets within the meaning of the Code (generally, property held for investment). A more complete discussion of the tax rules applicable to the Trust and its Shareholders can be found in the SAI that is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus. This summary does not discuss the consequences of an investment in the Common Rights or the Preferred Rights. The tax consequences of such an investment will be discussed in a relevant prospectus supplement. The discussion is based upon the Code, Treasury Regulations, judicial authorities, published positions of the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") and other applicable authorities, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change or differing interpretations (possibly with retroactive effect). This summary does not address all of the potential U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be applicable to the Trust or to all categories of investors, some of which may be subject to special tax rules. No ruling has been or will be sought from the IRS regarding any matter discussed herein. No assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of the tax aspects set forth below. This summary of U.S. federal income tax consequences is for general information only. **Prospective investors should consult their tax advisors as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of acquiring, holding and disposing of Shares, as well as the effects of state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.**

For purposes of this summary, the term "U.S. Shareholder" means a beneficial owner of Shares that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is one of the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. a corporation or other entity taxable as a corporation created in or organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof
or the District of Columbia;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. a trust (x) if a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of such trust and one or more U.S.
persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of such trust or (y) that has a valid election in effect under applicable
U.S. Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

If a partnership (including any other entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds Shares, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in such partnership generally will depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partners of partnerships that hold Shares should consult their tax advisors.

**Taxation of the Trust**

The Trust has elected to be treated, and intends to qualify annually, as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. Accordingly, the Trust must, among other things, meet certain income, asset diversification and distribution requirements:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) The Trust must derive in each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income from the following sources: (a) dividends, interest
(including tax-exempt interest), payments with respect to certain securities loans, and gains from the sale or other disposition of stock,
securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including gain from options, futures and forward contracts) derived with respect to
its business of investing in such stock, securities or foreign currencies; and (b) net income derived from interests in "qualified
publicly traded partnerships" (as defined in the Code). Generally, a qualified publicly traded partnership includes a partnership
the interests of which are traded on an established securities market or readily tradable on a secondary market (or the substantial equivalent
thereof) and that derives less than 90% of its gross income from the items described in (a) above.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) The Trust must diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of each taxable year, (a) at least 50% of the market
value of the Trust's total assets is represented by cash and cash items, including receivables, U.S. Government securities, the
securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater
than 5% of the value of the Trust's total assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer and (b) not
more than 25% of the market value of the Trust's total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. Government securities
and the securities of other RICs) of (I) any one issuer, (II) any two or more issuers that the Trust controls and that are determined
to be engaged in the same business or similar or related trades or businesses or (III) any one or more "qualified publicly
traded partnerships" (as defined in the Code).

As long as the Trust qualifies as a RIC, the Trust generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on income and gains that the Trust distributes to its Shareholders, provided that it distributes each taxable year at least 90% of the sum of (i) the Trust's investment company taxable income (which includes, among other items, dividends, interest, the excess of any net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss, and other taxable income, other than any net capital gain (defined below), reduced by deductible expenses) determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and (ii) the Trust's net tax-exempt interest (the excess of its gross tax-exempt interest over certain disallowed deductions) (the "Annual Distribution Requirement"). The Trust will be subject to income tax at regular corporate rates on any taxable income or gains that it does not distribute to its Shareholders.

The Trust will either distribute or retain for reinvestment all or part of its net capital gain (which consists of the excess of its net long-term capital gain over its net short-term capital loss). If any such gain is retained, the Trust will be subject to a corporate income tax (currently at a maximum rate of 21%) on such retained amount. In that event, the Trust may report the retained amount as undistributed capital gain in a notice to its Shareholders, each of whom, (i) would be required to include in income for U.S. federal income tax purposes as long-term capital gain its share of such undistributed amounts, (ii) would be entitled to credit its proportionate share of the tax paid by the Trust against its U.S. federal income tax liability and to claim refunds to the extent that the credit exceeds such liability and (iii) would increase its basis in its Shares by the amount of undistributed capital gain included in such Shareholder's gross income net of the tax deemed paid by such Shareholder under clause (ii).

The Code imposes a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the Trust to the extent the Trust does not distribute by the end of any calendar year at least the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gain or loss) for the calendar year and (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain in excess of its capital loss (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for a one-year period generally ending on October 31 of the calendar year (unless an election is made to use the Trust's fiscal year) (the "Excise Tax Avoidance Requirement"). In addition, the minimum amounts that must be distributed in any year to avoid the excise tax will be increased or decreased to reflect any under-distribution or over-distribution, as the case may be, from the previous year. For purposes of the excise tax, the Trust will be deemed to have distributed any income on which it paid U.S. federal income tax in the taxable year ending within the calendar year. While the Trust intends to distribute any income and capital gain in the manner necessary to minimize imposition of the 4% nondeductible excise tax, there can be no assurance that sufficient amounts of the Trust's taxable income and capital gain will be distributed to entirely avoid the imposition of the excise tax. In that event, the Trust will be liable for the excise tax only on the amount by which it does not meet the foregoing distribution requirement.

If for any taxable year the Trust does not qualify as a RIC, all of its taxable income (including its net capital gain) will be subject to tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to Shareholders, and such distributions will be taxable to the Shareholders as ordinary dividends to the extent of the Trust's current and accumulated earnings and profits. Such dividends, however, would be eligible (i) to be treated as qualified dividend income in the case of non-corporate U.S. Shareholders and (ii) for the dividends-received deduction in the case of U.S. Shareholders taxed as corporations, in each case provided that certain holding period and other requirements are met. The Trust could be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay taxes and make distributions (which could be subject to interest charges) before requalifying for taxation as a RIC. The remainder of this discussion assumes that the Trust qualifies as a RIC.

**Taxation of the Trust's Investments**

Certain of the Trust's investment practices are subject to special and complex U.S. federal income tax provisions that may, among other things, (i) disallow, suspend or otherwise limit the allowance of certain losses or deductions, (ii) convert lower taxed long-term capital gains or "qualified dividend income" into higher taxed short-term capital gains or ordinary income, (iii) convert an ordinary loss or a deduction into a capital loss (the deductibility of which is more limited), (iv) cause the Trust to recognize income or gain without a corresponding receipt of cash, (v) adversely affect the time as to when a purchase or sale of stock or securities is deemed to occur, (vi) adversely alter the characterization of certain complex financial transactions and (vii) produce income that will not be "qualified" income for purposes of the 90% gross income requirement described above. These U.S. federal income tax provisions could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to Shareholders. The Trust intends to structure and monitor its transactions and may make certain tax elections and may be required to dispose of securities to mitigate the effect of these provisions and prevent disqualification of the Trust as a RIC (which may adversely affect the net after-tax return to the Trust).

If the Trust acquires shares in a "passive foreign investment company" (a "PFIC"), the Trust may be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a portion of any "excess distribution" or gain from the disposition of such shares even if such income is distributed as a taxable dividend by the Trust to Shareholders. Additional charges in the nature of interest may be imposed on the Trust in respect of deferred taxes arising from such distributions or gains. If the Trust invests in a PFIC and elects to treat the PFIC as a "qualified electing fund" (a "QEF") under the Code, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, the Trust will be required to include in income each year a portion of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of the QEF, even if such income is not distributed to the Trust. The Trust's ability to make this election will depend on factors beyond the Trust's control. Alternatively, the Trust can elect to mark to market at the end of each taxable year the Trust's shares in a PFIC; in this case, the Trust will recognize as ordinary income any increase in the value of such shares, and as ordinary loss any decrease in such value to the extent it does not exceed prior increases included in income. Under either election, the Trust may be required to recognize in a year income in excess of the Trust's distributions from PFICs and the Trust's proceeds from dispositions of PFIC stock during that year, and such income will nevertheless be subject to the Annual Distribution Requirement and will be taken into account for purposes of the 4% excise tax.

If the Trust holds directly or indirectly 10% or more of the shares in a foreign corporation that is treated as a "controlled foreign corporation" (a "CFC"), the Trust may be treated as receiving a deemed distribution (taxable as ordinary income) each year from such foreign corporation in an amount equal to the Trust's pro rata share of the corporation's income for the taxable year (including both ordinary earnings and capital gains), whether or not the corporation makes an actual distribution during such year. In general, a foreign corporation will be classified as a CFC if more than 50% of the shares of the corporation, measured by reference to combined voting power or value, is owned (directly, indirectly or by attribution) by U.S. shareholders. A U.S. shareholder, for this purpose, is any U.S. person that possesses (directly, indirectly or by attribution) 10% or more of the combined voting power or value of all classes of shares of a corporation. If the Trust is treated as receiving a deemed distribution from a CFC, the Trust will be required to include such distribution in its investment company taxable income regardless of whether the Trust receives any actual distributions from such CFC, and the Trust must distribute such income to satisfy the Annual Distribution Requirement and the Excise Tax Avoidance Requirement.

**Taxation of U.S. Shareholders**

The Trust expects to take the position that under present law any Preferred Shares that it issues will constitute equity rather than debt of the Trust for U.S. federal income tax purposes. It is possible, however, that the IRS could take a contrary position asserting, for example, that such preferred shares constitute debt of the Trust. If that position were upheld, distributions on the Trust's Preferred Shares would be considered interest, taxable as ordinary income regardless of the taxable income of the Trust, and other adverse consequences could result for the Trust or Shareholders. The following discussion and the discussion in the SAI assume that any Preferred Shares issued by the Trust will be treated as equity.

 

*Distributions*. Distributions paid to U.S. Shareholders by the Trust from its net capital gains (which is the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) if any, that the Trust properly reports as capital gains dividends ("capital gain dividends") are taxable as long-term capital gains, regardless of how long a U.S. Shareholder has held its Shares. All other dividends paid to U.S. Shareholders by the Trust (including dividends from short-term capital gains) from its current or accumulated earnings and profits ("ordinary income dividends") are generally subject to tax as ordinary income.

In the case of corporate U.S. Shareholders, properly reported ordinary income dividends paid by the Trust generally will be eligible for the dividends received deduction to the extent that the Trust's income consists of dividend income from U.S. corporations and certain holding period requirements are satisfied by both the Trust and the corporate U.S. Shareholders. In the case of individuals, any properly reported ordinary income dividend that you receive from the Trust will generally be eligible for taxation at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains to the extent that (i) the ordinary income dividend is attributable to "qualified dividend income" (i.e., generally dividends paid by U.S. corporations and certain qualified foreign corporations) received by the Trust, (ii) the Trust satisfies certain holding period and other requirements with respect to the stock on which such qualified dividend income was paid and (iii) you satisfy certain holding period and other requirements with respect to your Shares. Qualified dividend income eligible for these special rules are not actually treated as capital gains, however, and thus will not be included in the computation of your net capital gain and generally cannot be used to offset any capital losses. In general, you may include as qualified dividend income only that portion of the dividends that may be and are so reported by the Trust as qualified dividend income. Dividend income from PFICs and, in general, dividend income from real estate investment trusts is not eligible for the reduced rate for qualified dividend income and is taxed as ordinary income. Due to the nature of the Trust's investments, the Trust does not expect that a significant portion of its distributions will be eligible for the dividends received deduction or for the reduced rates applicable to qualified dividend income.

Under Treasury regulations, for taxable years beginning before January 1, 2026, properly reported dividends paid by the Trust that are attributable to the Trust's "qualified REIT dividends" (generally, ordinary income dividends paid by a REIT, not including capital gain dividends or dividends treated as qualified dividend income) may be eligible for the 20% deduction described in Section 199A of the Code in the case of non-corporate U.S. Shareholders, provided that certain holding period and other requirements are met by the Shareholder and the Trust. There can be no assurance as to what portion, if any, of our distributions will qualify for such deduction. Subject to any future regulatory guidance to the contrary, any distribution attributable to income from the Trust's investments in publicly traded partnerships, if any, will not qualify for the 20% deduction that could be available to a non-corporate U.S. Shareholder were the Shareholder to own such partnership interests directly.

Any distributions you receive that are in excess of the Trust's current and accumulated earnings and profits will be treated as a tax-deferred return of capital to the extent of your adjusted tax basis in your Shares, and thereafter as capital gain from the sale of Shares. The amount of any Trust distribution that is treated as a return of capital will reduce your adjusted tax basis in your Shares, thereby increasing your potential gain, or reducing your potential loss, on any subsequent sale or other disposition of your Shares.

Dividends and other taxable distributions are taxable to you even if they are reinvested in additional Shares of the Trust. Dividends and other distributions paid by the Trust are generally treated as received by you at the time the dividend or distribution is made. If, however, the Trust pays you a dividend in January that was declared in the previous October, November or December and you were the U.S. Shareholder of record on a specified date in one of such months, then such dividend will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as being paid by the Trust and received by you on December 31 of the year in which the dividend was declared.

The Trust will send you information after the end of each year setting forth the amount and tax status of any distributions paid to you by the Trust.

*Sale of Shares*. Except in the case of a redemption (the consequences of which are described in the SAI under "Tax Matters"), the sale or other disposition of Shares of the Trust will generally result in capital gain or loss to you and will be long-term capital gain or loss if you have held such Shares for more than one year. Any loss upon the sale or other disposition of Shares held for six months or less will be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends received (including amounts credited as an undistributed capital gain) by you with respect to such Shares. Any loss you recognize on a sale or other disposition of Shares will be disallowed if you acquire other Shares of the same class (whether through the automatic reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within a 61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after your sale or exchange of the Shares. In such case, your tax basis in the Shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.

Current U.S. federal income tax law taxes both long-term and short-term capital gain of corporations at the rates applicable to ordinary income. For non-corporate taxpayers, short-term capital gain is currently taxed at rates applicable to ordinary income, while long-term capital gain generally is taxed at reduced maximum rates. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations under the Code.

*Medicare Tax*. Certain U.S. Shareholders who are individuals, estates or trusts and whose income exceeds certain thresholds will be required to pay a 3.8% Medicare tax on all or a part of their "net investment income," which includes dividends received from the Trust and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of Shares.

**Taxation of Non-U.S. Shareholders**

The following discussion only applies to Non-U.S. Shareholders. A "Non-U.S. Shareholder" is a Shareholder, other than a partnership (or other entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes), that is not a U.S. Shareholder for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Whether an investment in Shares is appropriate for a Non-U.S. Shareholder will depend upon that Non-U.S. Shareholder's particular circumstances. An investment in Shares by a Non-U.S. Shareholder may have adverse tax consequences. Non-U.S. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors before investing in Shares.

Distributions of ordinary income dividends to Non-U.S. Shareholders, subject to the discussion below, will generally be subject to withholding of U.S. federal tax at a 30% rate (or lower rate provided by an applicable treaty) to the extent of the Trust's current and accumulated earnings and profits. Actual or deemed distributions of the Trust's net capital gain to a Non-U.S. Shareholder, and gain recognized by a Non-U.S. Shareholder upon the sale of Shares, generally will not be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax and will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax. Different tax consequences may result if the Non-U.S. Shareholder is engaged in a trade or business in the United States or, in the case of an individual, is present in the United States for 183 days or more during a taxable year and certain other conditions are met. Special certification requirements apply to a shareholder that is a foreign partnership or a foreign trust, and such entities are urged to consult their tax advisors.

U.S. source withholding taxes will generally not be imposed on dividends paid by RICs to Non-U.S. Shareholders to the extent the dividends are properly reported as "interest related dividends" or "short term capital gain dividends." Under this exemption, interest related dividends and short term capital gain dividends generally represent distributions of interest or short term capital gain that would not have been subject to U.S. withholding tax at the source if they had been received directly by a Non-U.S. Shareholder, and that satisfy certain other requirements. No assurance can be given as to the portion of the Trust's dividends that will constitute interest related or short term capital gain dividends.

If the Trust distributes its net capital gains in the form of deemed rather than actual distributions (which the Trust may do in the future), a Non-U.S. Shareholder will be entitled to a U.S. federal income tax credit or tax refund equal to the Non-U.S. Shareholder's allocable share of the tax that the Trust pays on the capital gains deemed to have been distributed. In order to obtain the refund, the Non-U.S. Shareholder must obtain a U.S. taxpayer identification number and file a U.S. federal income tax return even if the Non-U.S. Shareholder is not otherwise required to obtain a U.S. taxpayer identification number or file a federal income tax return. For a Non-U.S. Shareholder, distributions (both actual and deemed), and gains realized upon the sale of Shares that are effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business (or, where an applicable treaty applies, are attributable to a permanent establishment in the United States) will generally be subject to U.S. federal income tax at the rates applicable to U.S. persons and for a corporate Non-U.S. Shareholder may, under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional "branch profits tax" at a 30% rate (or at a lower rate if provided for by an applicable tax treaty). Accordingly, investment in Shares may not be appropriate for certain Non-U.S. Shareholders.

Certain provisions of the Code referred to as "FATCA" require withholding at a rate of 30% on dividends in respect of Shares held by or through certain foreign financial institutions (including investment funds), unless such institution enters into an agreement with the Treasury to report, on an annual basis, information with respect to interests in, and accounts maintained by, the institution to the extent such interests or accounts are held by certain U.S. persons and by certain non-U.S. entities that are wholly or partially owned by U.S. persons and to withhold on certain payments. Accordingly, the entity through which Shares are held will affect the determination of whether such withholding is required. Similarly, dividends in respect of Shares held by an investor that is a non-financial non-U.S. entity that does not qualify under certain exemptions will be subject to withholding at a rate of 30%, unless such entity either (i) certifies to the applicable withholding agent that such entity does not have any "substantial United States owners" or (ii) provides certain information regarding the entity's "substantial United States owners," which the applicable withholding agent will in turn provide to the Secretary of the Treasury. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and an applicable foreign country, or future Treasury regulations or other guidance, may modify these requirements. The Trust will not pay any additional amounts to Non-U.S. Shareholders in respect of any amounts withheld. Non-U.S. Shareholders are encouraged to consult their tax advisors regarding the possible implications of the legislation on their investment in Shares.

**The foregoing is a general and abbreviated summary of the provisions of the Code and the Treasury regulations in effect as they directly govern the taxation of the Trust and its U.S. Shareholders and Non-U.S. Shareholders. These provisions are subject to change by legislative or administrative action, and any such change may be retroactive. A more complete discussion of the tax rules applicable to the Trust, its U.S. Shareholders and Non-U.S. Shareholders can be found in the SAI that is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus. Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding specific questions as to U.S. federal, state, local and foreign income or other taxes.**

**PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION**

The Trust may offer up to $377,747,000 in aggregate initial offering price of Common Shares, Preferred Shares or Rights from time to time under this Prospectus and any related Prospectus Supplement (1) directly to one or more purchases, including existing shareholders in a Rights offering; (2) through agents; (3) through underwriters; (4) through dealers; or (5) pursuant to the Trust's dividend reinvestment plan. Each Prospectus Supplement relating to an offering of securities will state the terms of the offering, including:

● the names of any agents, underwriters or dealers;

● any sales loads or other items constituting underwriters' compensation;

● any discounts, commissions, or fees allowed or paid to dealers or agents;

● the public offering or purchase price of the offered Securities and the net proceeds the Trust will receive from the sale; and

● any securities exchange on which the offered Securities may be listed.

**Direct Sales**

The Trust may sell Securities directly to, and solicit offers from, institutional investors or others who may be deemed to be underwriters as defined in the Securities Act for any resales of the securities. In this case, no underwriters or agents would be involved. The Trust may use electronic media, including the Internet, to sell offered securities directly. The Trust will describe the terms of any of those sales in a Prospectus Supplement.

**By Agents**

The Trust may offer Securities through agents that the Trust may designate. The Trust will name any agent involved in the offer and sale and describe any commissions payable by the Trust in the Prospectus Supplement. Unless otherwise indicated in the Prospectus Supplement, the agents will be acting on a best efforts basis for the period of their appointment.

**By Underwriters**

The Trust may offer and sell Securities from time to time to one or more underwriters who would purchase the Securities as principal for resale to the public, either on a firm commitment or best efforts basis. If the Trust sells Securities to underwriters, the Trust will execute an underwriting agreement with them at the time of the sale and will name them in the Prospectus Supplement. In connection with these sales, the underwriters may be deemed to have received compensation from the Trust in the form of underwriting discounts and commissions. The underwriters also may receive commissions from purchasers of Securities for whom they may act as agent. Unless otherwise stated in the Prospectus Supplement, the underwriters will not be obligated to purchase the Securities unless the conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement are satisfied, and if the underwriters purchase any of the Securities, they will be required to purchase all of the offered Securities. The underwriters may sell the offered Securities to or through dealers, and those dealers may receive discounts, concessions or commissions from the underwriters as well as from the purchasers for whom they may act as agent. Any public offering price and any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers may be changed from time to time.

In connection with an offering of Common Shares, if a Prospectus Supplement so indicates, the Trust may grant the underwriters an option to purchase additional Common Shares at the public offering price, less the underwriting discounts and commissions, within 45 days from the date of the Prospectus Supplement, to cover any overallotments.

**By Dealers**

The Trust may offer and sell Securities from time to time to one or more dealers who would purchase the securities as principal. The dealers then may resell the offered Securities to the public at fixed or varying prices to be determined by those dealers at the time of resale. The Trust will set forth the names of the dealers and the terms of the transaction in the Prospectus Supplement.

**General Information**

Agents, underwriters, or dealers participating in an offering of Securities may be deemed to be underwriters, and any discounts and commission received by them and any profit realized by them on resale of the offered Securities for whom they act as agent, may be deemed to be underwriting discounts and commissions under the Securities Act.

The Trust may offer to sell securities either at a fixed price or at prices that may vary, at market prices prevailing at the time of sale, at prices related to prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices.

To facilitate an offering of Common Shares in an underwritten transaction and in accordance with industry practice, the underwriters may engage in transactions that stabilize, maintain, or otherwise affect the market price of the Common Shares or any other Security. Those transactions may include overallotment, entering stabilizing bids, effecting syndicate covering transactions, and reclaiming selling concessions allowed to an underwriter or a dealer.

● An overallotment in connection with an offering creates a short position in the common stock for the underwriter's own account.

● An underwriter may place a stabilizing bid to purchase the Common Shares for the purpose of pegging, fixing, or maintaining the price of the Common Shares.

● Underwriters may engage in syndicate covering transactions to cover overallotments or to stabilize the price of the Common Shares by bidding for, and purchasing, the Common Shares or any other Securities in the open market in order to reduce a short position created in connection with the offering.

● The managing underwriter may impose a penalty bid on a syndicate member to reclaim a selling concession in connection with an offering when the Common Shares originally sold by the syndicate member is purchased in syndicate covering transactions or otherwise.

Any of these activities may stabilize or maintain the market price of the Securities above independent market levels. The underwriters are not required to engage in these activities, and may end any of these activities at any time.

In connection with any Rights offering, the Trust may also enter into a standby underwriting arrangement with one or more underwriters pursuant to which the underwriter(s) will purchase Common Shares remaining unsubscribed for after the Rights offering.

Any underwriters to whom the offered Securities are sold for offering and sale may make a market in the offered Securities, but the underwriters will not be obligated to do so and may discontinue any market-making at any time without notice. There can be no assurance that there will be a liquid trading market for the offered Securities.

Under agreements entered into with the Trust, underwriters and agents may be entitled to indemnification by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribution for payments the underwriters or agents may be required to make.

The underwriters, agents, and their affiliates may engage in financial or other business transactions with the Trust in the ordinary course of business.

Pursuant to a requirement of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. ("FINRA") the maximum compensation to be received by any FINRA member or independent broker-dealer in connection with an offering of the Trust's securities may not be greater than eight percent (8%) of the gross proceeds received by the Trust for the sale of any securities being registered pursuant to SEC Rule 415 under the Securities Act.

To the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the underwriters may from time to time act as a broker or dealer and receive fees in connection with the execution of portfolio transactions on behalf of the Trust after the underwriters have ceased to be underwriters and, subject to certain restrictions, each may act as a broker while it is an underwriter.

A Prospectus and accompanying Prospectus Supplement in electronic form may be made available on the websites maintained by underwriters. The underwriters may agree to allocate a number of Securities for sale to their online brokerage account holders. Such allocations of Securities for internet distributions will be made on the same basis as other allocations. In addition, Securities may be sold by the underwriters to securities dealers who resell Securities to online brokerage account holders.

**TRANSFER AGENT, CUSTODIAN AND ADMINISTRATOR**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information—Transfer Agent, Custodian, Administrator and Pine Advisors" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**LEGAL MATTERS**

Certain legal matters will be passed on for the Trust by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, Chicago, Illinois, in connection with the offering of the Common Shares.

**INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM**

Cohen & Company, Ltd., 1350 Euclid Ave., Suite 800, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, is the independent registered public accounting firm of the Trust. The independent registered public accounting firm is expected to render an opinion annually on the financial statements and financial highlights of the Trust.

The Trust's audited financial statements and financial highlights appearing in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm), including accompanying notes thereto and the report of Cohen & Company, Ltd. thereon, have been incorporated by reference in this Prospectus in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

**FISCAL YEAR END AND REPORTS TO SHAREHOLDERS**

The Trust's fiscal year end is September 30.

As soon as practicable after the end of each calendar year, the Trust will furnish to Common Shareholders a statement on Form 1099-DIV identifying the sources of the distributions paid by the Trust to Common Shareholders for tax purposes.

In addition, the Trust will prepare and transmit to Common Shareholders a semi-annual report and annual report within 60 days after the close of the period for which the report is being made, or as otherwise required by the 1940 Act.

**PRIVACY PRINCIPLES OF THE TRUST**

The Trust is committed to maintaining the privacy of its shareholders and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information the Trust collects, how the Trust protects that information and why, in certain cases, the Trust may share information with select other parties.

Generally, the Trust does not receive any non-public personal information relating to its shareholders, although certain non-public personal information of its shareholders may become available to the Trust. The Trust does not disclose any non-public personal information about its shareholders or former shareholders to anyone, except as permitted by law or as is necessary in order to service shareholder accounts (for example, to a transfer agent or third-party administrator).

The Trust restricts access to non-public personal information about its shareholders to employees of the Adviser and its delegates and affiliates with a legitimate business need for the information. The Trust maintains physical, electronic and procedural safeguards designed to protect the non-public personal information of its shareholders.

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| ![](fp0093829-1_01.jpg) | ![](fp0093829-1_02.jpg) |

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**$377,747,000**

**XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust**

**Common Shares Preferred Shares Subscription Rights for Common Shares Subscription Rights for Preferred Shares**

**The information in this statement of additional information is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This statement of additional information is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.**

**Subject to Completion, dated June 16, 2025**

**XAI OCTAGON FLOATING RATE & ALTERNATIVE INCOME TRUST**

**Statement of Additional Information**

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust (the "Trust") is a diversified, closed-end management investment company. The Trust's common shares of beneficial interest (the "Common Shares") are listed on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the symbol "XFLT."

The Trust's investment objective is to seek attractive total return with an emphasis on income generation across multiple stages of the credit cycle. There can be no assurance that the Trust will achieve its investment objective, and you could lose some or all of your investment.

This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a Prospectus, but should be read in conjunction with the Prospectus for the Trust dated &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; , 2025, and any related supplement to the Prospectus (each a "Prospectus Supplement"). Investors should obtain and read the Prospectus and any related Prospectus Supplement prior to purchasing Common Shares. A copy of the Prospectus and any related Prospectus Supplement may be obtained, without charge, by calling the Trust at (888) 903-3358.

The Prospectus, any accompanying Prospectus Supplement and this SAI omit certain of the information contained in the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). The registration statement may be obtained from the SEC upon payment of the fee prescribed, or inspected at the SEC's office or via its website (www.sec.gov) at no charge. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein have the meanings ascribed to them in the Prospectus.

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

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|:---|:---|
|  | Page |
| The Trust | S-2 |
| Investment Objective and Policies | S-2 |
| Investment Restrictions | S-6 |
| Management of the Trust | S-8 |
| Portfolio Transactions | S-11 |
| Tax Matters | S-11 |
| General Information | S-18 |
| Financial Statements | S-21 |
| Appendix A: Description of Securities Ratings | A-1 |
| Appendix B: Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures | B-1 |

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**This Statement of Additional Information is dated &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;, 2025.**

**THE TRUST**

The Trust is a diversified, closed-end management investment company organized as a statutory trust under the laws of the State of Delaware.

**INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES**

The following information supplements the discussion of the Trust's investment objective, policies and techniques that are described in the Prospectus. The Trust may make the following investments, among others, some of which are part of its principal investment strategies and some of which are not. The principal risks of the Trust's principal investment strategies are discussed in the Prospectus. The Trust may not buy all of the types of securities or use all of the investment techniques that are described.

**Convertible Securities**

A convertible security is a preferred stock, warrant or other security that may be converted into or exchanged for a prescribed amount of common stock or other security of the same or a different issuer or into cash within a particular period of time at a specified price or formula. A convertible security generally entitles the holder to receive the dividend paid on preferred stock until the convertible security matures or is redeemed, converted or exchanged. Before conversion, convertible securities generally have characteristics similar to both fixed income and equity securities. The value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates rise and, because of the conversion feature, tends to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the securities in to which they would convert. Convertible securities ordinarily provide a stream of income with generally higher yields than those of common stock of the same or similar issuers. Convertible securities generally rank senior to common stock in a corporation's capital structure but are usually subordinated to comparable non-convertible securities. Convertible securities generally do not participate directly in any dividend increases or decreases of the underlying securities although the market prices of convertible securities may be affected by any dividend changes or other changes in the underlying securities.

The market value of a convertible security generally is a function of its "investment value" and its "conversion value." A security's "investment value" represents the value of the security without its conversion feature (i.e., a comparable nonconvertible fixed-income security). The investment value is determined by, among other things, reference to its credit quality and the current value of its yield to maturity or probable call date. At any given time, investment value is dependent upon such factors as the general level of interest rates, the yield of similar nonconvertible securities, the financial strength of the issuer and the seniority of the security in the issuer's capital structure. A security's "conversion value" is determined by multiplying the number of shares the holder is entitled to receive upon conversion or exchange by the current price of the underlying security. If the conversion value of a convertible security is significantly below its investment value, the convertible security will trade like nonconvertible debt or a preferred security in the sense that its market value will not be influenced greatly by fluctuations in the market price of the underlying security into which it can be converted. Instead, the convertible security's price will tend to move in the opposite direction from interest rates. Conversely, if the conversion value of a convertible security is significantly above its investment value, the market value of the convertible security will be more heavily influenced by fluctuations in the market price of the underlying stock. In that case, the convertible security's price may be as volatile as that of the common stock. Because both interest rate and market movements can influence its value, a convertible security is not generally as sensitive to interest rates as a similar fixed-income security, nor is it generally as sensitive to changes in share price as its underlying stock.

The Trust's investments in convertible securities, particularly securities that are convertible into securities of an issuer other than the issuer of the convertible security, may be illiquid—that is, the Trust may not be able to dispose of such securities in a timely fashion or for a fair price, which could result in losses to the Trust. The Trust's investments in convertible securities may at times include securities that have a mandatory conversion feature, pursuant to which the securities convert automatically into common stock or other equity securities (of the same or a different issuer) at a specified date and a specified conversion ratio, or that are convertible at the option of the issuer. For issues where the conversion of the security is not at the option of the holder, the Trust may be required to convert the security into the underlying common stock even at times when the value of the underlying common stock or other equity security has declined substantially.

**Zero Coupon Securities**

The Trust may invest in zero dividend preferred securities and zero coupon bonds. These are instruments that typically do not pay interest either for the entire life of the obligation or for an initial period after the issuance of the obligation. When held to its redemption or maturity, a holder receives the par value (or the accreted value) of the zero (rate) coupon security, which generates a return equal to the difference between the purchase price and its redemption or maturity value. A zero dividend preferred security or a zero coupon security is normally issued and traded at a deep discount from face value. This original issue discount ("OID") approximates the total amount of interest the security will accrue and compound prior to its redemption or maturity. Because these securities and other OID instruments do not pay cash dividends or interest at regular intervals, the instruments' ongoing accruals require ongoing judgments concerning the collectability of stated par value of the instrument at its redemption or maturity, as well as the value of any associated collateral. As a result, these securities may be subject to greater value fluctuations and less liquidity in the event of adverse market conditions than comparably rated securities that pay cash on a current basis. Because zero dividend preferred securities and zero coupon bonds, and OID instruments generally, allow an issuer to delay the need to generate cash to meet current dividend or interest payments (unless there is a prescribed accumulated funding of the payment), they may involve greater payment and credit risk than dividend or coupon securities that pay dividends or interest currently or in cash. In order to maintain its status as a regulated investment company ("RIC"), the Trust generally will be required to distribute dividends to shareholders representing the income of these instruments as it accrues, even though the Trust will not receive all of the income on a current basis or in cash. Thus, the Trust may have to sell other investments, including when it may not be advisable to do so, and use the cash proceeds to make income distributions to its shareholders. For accounting purposes, these cash distributions to shareholders will not treated as a return of capital.

**Exchange-Traded Notes**

Exchange-traded notes ("ETNs") are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines both aspects of bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs do not make periodic interest payments and principal is not protected. ETNs are subject to credit risk and the value of an ETN may drop due to a downgrade in the issuer's credit rating, despite the underlying market benchmark or strategy remaining unchanged. The value of an ETN may also be influenced by time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in underlying assets, changes in the applicable interest rates, changes in the issuer's credit rating, and economic, legal, political or geographic events that affect the referenced underlying asset. When the Trust invests in ETNs it will bear its proportionate share of any fees and expenses borne by the ETN. The Trust's decision to sell its ETN holdings may be limited by the availability of a secondary market. In addition, although an ETN may be listed on an exchange, the issuer may not be required to maintain the listing and there can be no assurance that a secondary market will exist for an ETN.

ETNs are also subject to tax risk. No assurance can be given that the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") will accept, or a court will uphold, how the Trust characterizes and treats ETN investments for tax purposes. Further, the IRS and Congress have considered proposals that would change the timing and character of income and gains from ETNs.

An ETN that is tied to a specific market benchmark or strategy may not be able to replicate and maintain exactly the composition and relative weighting of securities, commodities or other components in the applicable market benchmark or strategy. Some ETNs that use leverage can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs are subject to the same risk as other instruments that use leverage in any form.

The market value of ETN shares may differ from their market benchmark or strategy. This difference in price may be due to the fact that the supply and demand in the market for ETN shares at any point in time is not always identical to the supply and demand in the market for the securities, commodities or other components underlying the market benchmark or strategy that the ETN seeks to track. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its market benchmark or strategy.

**Commercial Paper**

Commercial paper represents short-term unsecured promissory notes issued in bearer form by corporations such as banks or bank holding companies and finance companies. The rate of return on commercial paper may be linked or indexed to the level of exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and a foreign currency or currencies.

**When Issued, Delayed Delivery Securities And Forward Commitments**

The Trust may enter into forward commitments for the purchase or sale of securities. The Trust may enter into transactions on a "when issued" or "delayed delivery" basis, in excess of customary settlement periods for the type of security involved. In some cases, a forward commitment may be conditioned upon the occurrence of a subsequent event, such as approval and consummation of a merger, corporate reorganization or debt restructuring (i.e., a when, as and if issued security). When such transactions are negotiated, the price is fixed at the time of the commitment, with payment and delivery taking place in the future, generally a month or more after the date of the commitment. While it will only enter into a forward commitment with the intention of actually acquiring the security, the Trust may sell the security before the settlement date if it is deemed advisable. Securities purchased under a forward commitment are subject to market fluctuation, and generally no interest (or dividends) accrues to the Trust prior to the settlement date.

Securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis may expose the Trust to counterparty risk of default as well as the risk that securities may experience fluctuations in value prior to their actual delivery. The Trust generally will not accrue income with respect to a when-issued or delayed delivery security prior to its stated delivery date. Purchasing securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis can involve the additional risk that the price or yield available in the market when the delivery takes place may not be as favorable as that obtained in the transaction itself.

**Reverse Repurchase Agreements**

In reverse repurchase agreement transactions, the Trust sells portfolio securities to financial institutions such as banks and broker-dealers and agrees to repurchase them at a particular date and price. The Trust 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. Proceeds of the sale will be invested in additional instruments for the Trust, and the income from these investments will generate income for the Trust. If such income does not exceed the income, capital appreciation and gain or loss that would have been realized on the securities sold as part of the reverse repurchase transaction, the use of this technique will diminish the investment performance of the Trust compared with what the performance would have been without the use of reverse repurchase transactions.

With respect to any reverse repurchase agreement, the Trust's Managed Assets shall include any proceeds from the sale of an asset of the Trust to a counterparty in such a transaction, in addition to the value of the underlying asset as of the relevant measuring date. With respect to leverage incurred through investments in reverse repurchase agreements and economically similar transactions, the Trust intends to earmark or segregate cash or liquid securities in accordance with applicable interpretations of the staff of the SEC. As a result of such segregation, the Trust's obligations under such transactions will not be considered senior securities representing indebtedness for purposes of the 1940 Act and the Trust's use of leverage through reverse repurchase agreements and economically similar transactions will not be limited by the 1940 Act.

Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risks that the interest income earned on the investment of the proceeds will be less than the interest expense and expenses associated with the repurchase agreement, that the market value of the securities sold by the Trust may decline below the price at which the Trust is obligated to repurchase such securities and that the securities may not be returned to the Trust. There is no assurance that reverse repurchase agreements can be successfully employed. In connection with reverse repurchase agreements, the Trust will also be subject to counterparty risk with respect to the purchaser of the securities. If the broker/dealer to whom the Trust sells securities becomes insolvent, the Trust's right to purchase or repurchase securities may be restricted.

**Depositary Receipts**

The Trust's investments in non-U.S. issuers may include investment in depositary receipts, including American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs"), and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"). U.S. dollar-denominated ADRs, which are traded in the United States on exchanges in off exchange markets, are issued by domestic banks. ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. ADRs do not eliminate all the risk inherent in investing in the securities of foreign issuers. However, by investing in ADRs rather than directly in foreign issuers' stock, the Trust can avoid currency risks during the settlement period for either purchases or sales. In general, there is a large, liquid market in the United States for many ADRs. The information available for ADRs is subject to the accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards of the domestic market or exchange on which they are traded, which standards are more uniform and more exacting than those to which many foreign issuers may be subject. The Trust also may invest in EDRs, GDRs, and in other similar instruments representing securities of foreign companies. EDRs and GDRs are securities that are typically issued by foreign banks or foreign trust companies, although U.S. banks or U.S. trust companies may issue them. EDRs and GDRs are structured similarly to the arrangements of ADRs. EDRs, in bearer form, are designed for use in European securities markets and are not necessarily denominated in the currency of the underlying security.

Certain depositary receipts, typically those denominated as unsponsored, require the holders thereof to bear most of the costs of the facilities while issuers of sponsored facilities normally pay more of the costs thereof. The depository of an unsponsored facility frequently is under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the issuer of the deposited securities or to pass through the voting rights to facility holders in respect to the deposited securities, whereas the depository of a sponsored facility typically distributes shareholder communications and passes through voting rights.

**Preferred Securities**

Preferred securities are generally equity securities of the issuer that have priority over the issuer's common shares as to the payment of dividends (i.e., the issuer cannot pay dividends on its common shares until the dividends on the preferred shares are current) and as to the payout of proceeds of bankruptcy or other liquidation, but are subordinate to an issuer's senior debt and junior debt as to both types of payments. Additionally, in a bankruptcy or other liquidation, preferred securities are generally subordinate to an issuer's trade creditors and other general obligations.

Preferred securities pay a dividend, typically contingent both upon declaration by the issuer's board and on the existence of current earnings (or retained earnings) in sufficient amount to source the payment. Preferred securities typically have no ordinary right to vote for the board of directors, except in some cases voting rights may arise if the issuer fails to pay the preferred share dividends. Preferred securities may be perpetual or have a term and typically have a fixed liquidation (or "par") value.

Hybrid-preferred securities often behave as investments similarly to traditional preferred securities and are regarded by investors as being part of the preferred securities market. Hybrid-preferred securities possess varying combinations of features of both debt and preferred shares, and they may constitute senior debt, junior debt or preferred shares in an issuer's capital structure. As such, hybrid-preferred securities may not be subordinate to a company's debt securities (as are traditional preferred securities). Given the various debt and equity characteristics of hybrid-preferred securities, whether a hybrid-preferred security is classified as debt or equity for purposes of reporting the Trust's portfolio holdings may be based on the portfolio managers' determination as to whether its debt or preferred features are preponderant, or based on the assessment of an independent data provider. Such determinations may be subjective.

Dividend or interest payments on preferred securities may be cumulative or non-cumulative and often can be skipped or deferred, without limitation. The dividend rates on preferred securities may be fixed or floating, or convert from fixed to floating at a specified future time. Floating rate and fixed-to-floating-rate preferred securities may be traditional preferred or hybrid-preferred securities. Floating rate preferred securities pay a rate of income that resets periodically based on short- and/or longer-term interest rate benchmarks. If the associated interest rate benchmark rises, the return offered by the floating rate security may rise as well, making such securities less price-sensitive to rising interest rates (or yields). Similarly, a fixed-to-floating-rate security may be less price-sensitive to rising interest rates (or yields), because the period over which the rate of payment is fixed is shorter than the maturity term of the security, after which period a floating rate of payment applies.

**Loans of Portfolio Securities**

To increase income, the Trust may, consistent with applicable regulatory requirements, lend its portfolio securities to securities broker-dealers or financial institutions if (i) the loan is collateralized in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and (ii) no loan will cause the value of all loaned securities to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Trust's total assets. If the borrower fails to maintain the requisite amount of collateral, the loan automatically terminates and the Trust could use the collateral to replace the securities while holding the borrower liable for any excess of replacement cost over the value of the collateral. As with any extension of credit, there are risks of delay in recovery and in some cases even loss of rights in collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially. There can be no assurance that borrowers will not fail financially. On termination of the loan, the borrower is required to return the securities to the Trust, and any gain or loss in the market price during the term of the loan would inure to the Trust. If the other party to the loan petitions for bankruptcy or becomes subject to the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, the law regarding the rights of the Trust is unsettled. As a result, under extreme circumstances, there may be a restriction on the Trust's ability to sell the collateral and the Trust would suffer a loss.

**INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS**

The Trust operates under the following restrictions that constitute fundamental policies that, except as otherwise noted, cannot be changed without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust voting together as a single class, which is defined by the 1940 Act as the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the Trust's voting securities present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities are present or represented by proxy; or (ii) more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities. Except as otherwise noted, all percentage limitations set forth below apply immediately after a purchase or initial investment and any subsequent change in any applicable percentage resulting from market fluctuations does not require any action. These restrictions provide that the Trust shall not:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Issue senior securities, as defined in the 1940 Act, except as permitted by the 1940 Act, the rules and regulation promulgated by
the SEC under the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time, or an exemption or other relief applicable to the Trust from the provisions
of the 1940 Act.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Borrow money, except as permitted by the 1940 Act, the rules and regulation promulgated by the SEC under the 1940 Act, as amended
from time to time, or an exemption or other relief applicable to the Trust from the provisions of the 1940 Act.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Act as underwriter of another issuer's securities, except to the extent that the Trust may be deemed to be an underwriter within
the meaning of the Securities Act in connection with the purchase and sale of portfolio securities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) Invest more than 25% of its total assets in securities of issuers in any one industry; provided, however, that such limitation shall
not apply to (i) securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities, (ii) securities
issued by state and municipal governments or their political subdivisions, agencies, authorities and instrumentalities (other than those
securities backed only by the assets and revenues of non-governmental users with respect to which the Trust will not invest 25% or more
of the value of the Trust's total assets in securities backed by the same source of revenue), and (iii) securities issued by
other investment companies, which shall not constitute any industry.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) Purchase or sell real estate, except that the Trust may (i) acquire or lease office space for its own use, (ii) invest in
instruments of issuers that deal in real estate or are engaged in the real estate business, including real estate investment trusts, (iii) invest
in instruments secured by real estate or interests therein, (iv) hold and sell real estate or mortgages on real estate acquired through
default, liquidation, or other distributions of an interest in real estate as a result of the Trust's ownership of such instruments.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) Purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments except to the extent
that interests in instruments the Trust may invest in are considered to be interests in commodities and this shall not prevent the Trust
from purchasing or selling options, futures contracts, swaps, or other derivative instruments or from investing in securities or other
instruments backed by physical commodities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) Make loans except, (i) to the extent that instruments in which the Trust may invest are considered to be loans, (ii) through
the loan of portfolio securities in accordance with the Trust's investment policies, or (iii) by engaging in repurchase agreement
transactions or as otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act, the rules and regulation promulgated by the SEC under the 1940 Act, as amended
from time to time, or an exemption or other relief applicable to the Trust from the provisions of the 1940 Act.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) With respect to 75% of the value of the Trust's total assets, purchase any securities (other than obligations issued or guaranteed
by the U.S. Government or by its agencies or instrumentalities), if as a result more than 5% of the Trust's total assets would then
be invested in securities of a single issuer or if as a result the Trust would hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities
of any single issuer.

With respect to investment restriction (1) and (2) above, Section 18(c) of the 1940 Act generally limits a registered closed-end investment company to issuing one class of senior securities representing indebtedness and one class of senior securities representing stock, except that the class of indebtedness or stock may be issued in one or more series, and promissory notes or other evidences of indebtedness issued in consideration of any loan, extension, or renewal thereof, made by a bank or other person and privately arranged, and not intended to be publicly distributed, are not deemed a separate class of senior securities.

With respect to investment restriction (2) above, Section 18(a) of the 1940 Act generally prohibits a registered closed-end fund from incurring borrowings if, immediately thereafter, the aggregate amount of its borrowings exceeds 33 1/3% of its total assets.

With respect to investment restriction (4) above, the Sub-Adviser will, on behalf of the Trust, make reasonable determinations as to the appropriate industry classification to assign to each instrument in which the Trust invests, generally using industry classifications such as those provided by MSCI and Standard & Poor's (The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS)), Bloomberg, Barclays or similar sources commonly used in the financial industry. The definition of what constitutes a particular "industry" is an evolving one, particularly for industries or sectors within industries that are new or are undergoing rapid development. Some securities could reasonably fall within more than one industry category. The Trust's industry concentration policy does not preclude it from focusing investments in issuers in broad economic sectors. In connection with investments in other investment companies, the Trust will consider the concentration of the underlying investments by such investment companies when determining the Trust's compliance with investment restriction (4) above.

With respect to investment restriction (7) above, Section 21 of the 1940 Act makes it unlawful for a registered investment company, like the Trust, to lend money or other property if (i) the investment company's policies set forth in its registration statement do not permit such a loan or (ii) the borrower controls or is under common control with the investment company.

All other investment policies of the Trust set forth in the Prospectus and this SAI are not considered fundamental policies and may be changed by the Board of Trustees without any vote of shareholders.

**MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST**

**Board of Trustees**

The information contained under the heading "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Trustee Biographical Information" in the Trust's [Proxy Statement](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425009020/fp0093538-1_def14a.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**Trustee Qualifications**

The information contained under the heading "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Trustee Qualifications" in the Trust's Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

**Executive Officers**

The information contained under the heading "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Executive Officers" in the Trust's Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

**Board Leadership Structure**

The information contained under the heading "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Board Leadership Structure" in the Trust's Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

**Board Committees**

The information contained under the headings "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Board Committees" and "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Board Meetings" in the Trust's Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

**Board's Role in Risk Oversight**

Consistent with its responsibility for oversight of the Trust, the Board, among other things, oversees risk directly and through the committee structure it has established. The Board has established the Audit Committee and the Governance Committee to assist in its oversight functions, including its oversight of the risks the Trust faces. Each committee will report its activities to the Board on a regular basis.

The Board has adopted, and will periodically review, policies, procedures and controls designed to address different types of risks, including, among others, investment risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, and valuation risk, as well as the overall business risk relating to the Trust. Under the Board's supervision, the Trust, the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and other service providers to the Trust also have implemented a variety of processes, procedures and controls to address various risks. In addition, as part of the Board's periodic review of the Trust's investment advisory agreement, sub-advisory agreement and other service provider agreements, the Board may consider risk management aspects of the service providers' operations and the functions for which they are responsible.

The Board has appointed a Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO"). The CCO oversees the development of compliance policies and procedures of the Trust that are reasonably designed to minimize the risk of violations of the federal securities laws ("compliance policies"). The CCO reports directly to the Independent Trustees, and will provide presentations to the Board at its quarterly meetings and an annual report on the application of the compliance policies. The Board will discuss relevant risks affecting the Trust with the CCO at these meetings. The Board has approved the compliance policies and will review the CCO's reports. Further, the Board will annually review the effectiveness of the compliance policies, as well as the appointment and compensation of the CCO.

The Board will require officers of the Trust to report to the Board on a variety of matters at regular and special meetings of the Board and its committees, as applicable, including matters relating to risk management. The Audit Committee will also receive reports from the Trust's independent registered public accounting firm on internal control and financial reporting matters. In addition, the Board will receive reports from the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser on the investments and securities trading of the Trust. The Board will also require the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser to report to the Board on other matters relating to risk management on a regular and as-needed basis.

**Remuneration of Trustees and Officers**

The information contained under the heading "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Trustee Compensation" in the Trust's Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

**Trustee Share Ownership**

The information contained under the heading "The Proposal: To Elect Trustees—Beneficial Ownership of Securities" in the Trust's Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

**Indemnification of Officers and Trustees; Limitations on Liability**

The Governing Documents of the Trust provide that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers and may indemnify its employees or agents against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with litigation in which they may be involved because of their positions with the Trust, to the fullest extent permitted by law. However, nothing in the Governing Documents of the Trust protects or indemnifies a trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust against any liability to which such person would otherwise be subject in the event of such person's willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her position.

**Adviser**

The information contained under the heading "Management of the Trust—The Adviser" in the Trust's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

Under the terms of the Trust's investment advisory agreement, the Adviser is responsible for the management of the Trust; furnishes offices, necessary facilities and equipment on behalf of the Trust; oversees the activities of the Sub-Adviser and other service providers to the Trust; provides personnel, including certain officers required for the Trust's administrative management; and pays the compensation of all officers and Trustees of the Trust who are its affiliates.

The Trust's investment advisory agreement must be approved annually (i) by the Board of Trustees or by the holders of a majority of the Trust's outstanding voting securities and (ii) by a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to the investment advisory agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Trust's investment advisory agreement terminates automatically on its assignment and may be terminated without penalty on 60 days written notice at the option of either party thereto or by a vote of a majority of the Trust's outstanding shares, which is defined by the 1940 Act as the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the Trust's voting securities present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities are present or represented by proxy; or (ii) more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities.

The Trust may, if and to the extent approved by the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, from time to time reimburse the Adviser for certain costs and expenses incurred by the Adviser in connection with the management of the Trust's assets, which may include the Trust's allocable share of portfolio management and trading software costs, research expenses (including modeling and analytic software costs), diligence expenses and out-of-pocket travel costs incurred in connection with the management of the Trust's assets. The Trust does not currently reimburse any such expenses.

The Trust's investment advisory agreement provides that, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard for its obligations and duties thereunder, the Adviser is not liable for any error or judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust.

During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the Trust paid $10,567,413, $7,104,690 and $6,778,017, respectively, to the Adviser pursuant to the investment advisory agreement.

**Sub-Adviser**

The information contained under the heading "Management of the Trust—The Sub-Adviser" in the Trust's Annual Report is incorporated herein by reference.

Under the terms of the Trust's investment sub-advisory agreement, the Sub-Adviser manages the investment portfolio of the Trust in accordance with its stated investment objective and policies, makes investment decisions for the Trust, places orders to purchase and sell securities on behalf of the Trust, all subject to the supervision and direction of the Board of Trustees and the Adviser.

The Trust's investment sub-advisory agreement must be approved annually (i) by the Board of Trustees or by the holders of a majority of the Trust's outstanding voting securities and (ii) by a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to the investment sub-advisory agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Trust's investment sub-advisory agreement terminates automatically on its assignment and may be terminated without penalty on 60 days written notice at the option of either party thereto, by the Board of Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the Trust's outstanding shares, which is defined by the 1940 Act as the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the Trust's voting securities present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities are present or represented by proxy; or (ii) more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities.

The Trust's investment sub-advisory agreement provides that, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard for its obligations and duties thereunder, the Sub-Adviser is not liable for any error or judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust.

During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the Adviser paid $6,133,815, $4,262,245, and $4,066,810, respectively, to the Sub-Adviser pursuant to the investment sub-advisory agreement.

The Trust may, if and to the extent approved by the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, from time to time reimburse the Sub-Adviser for certain costs and expenses incurred by the Sub-Adviser in connection with the management of the Trust's assets, which may include the Trust's allocable share of portfolio management and trading software costs, research expenses (including modeling and analytic software costs), diligence expenses and out-of-pocket travel costs incurred in connection with the management of the Trust's assets. During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the Trust reimbursed costs and expenses of the Sub-Adviser in an amount of $207,715, $135,430 and $195,765, respectively.

**Portfolio Managers**

The information contained under "Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies" of the Trust's Annual Report is incorporated herein by reference.

**Investor Support Services and Secondary Market Support Services Agreement**

Pursuant to an investor support services and secondary market support services agreement, the Adviser provides investor support services and secondary market support services in connection with the ongoing operation of the Trust. Such services include responding to questions about the Trust from financial intermediaries; assisting in drafting and editing mailings to financial intermediaries; distributing mailings to financial intermediaries; scheduling, organizing and preparing conference calls, meetings and other communications with financial intermediaries; communicating with the NYSE specialist for the Common Shares, and with the closed-end fund analyst community regarding the Trust on a periodic basis; assisting in producing communications targeted to current Trust shareholders and the investment community generally (excluding marketing materials targeted to prospective investors or prepared for use in an offering of Common Shares); assisting in the formatting, development and maintenance of the Trust's website; assisting with administrative matters (including in connection with the preparation of press releases, shareholder reports and regulatory filings) with respect to the Trust. In exchange for such services, the Trust pays the Adviser a service fee, payable monthly in arrears, in an annual amount equal to 0.20% of the Trust's average daily Managed Assets.

The investor support services and secondary market support services agreement must be approved annually (i) by the Board of Trustees or by the holders of a majority of the Trust's outstanding voting securities and (ii) by a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to the investment advisory agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The investor support services and secondary market support services agreement terminates automatically on its assignment and may be terminated without penalty on 60 days written notice at the option of either party thereto or by a vote of a majority of the Trust's outstanding shares, which is defined by the 1940 Act as the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the Trust's voting securities present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities are present or represented by proxy; or (ii) more than 50% of the Trust's outstanding voting securities.

The investor support services and secondary market support services agreement provides that, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard for its obligations and duties thereunder, the Adviser is not liable for any error or judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust.

During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024, 2023 and 2022 the Trust incurred $1,243,225, $835,846 and $797,413, respectively, in investor support services and secondary market support services fees.

**PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS**

Subject to policies established by the Board of Trustees, the Sub-Adviser is responsible for placing purchase and sale orders and the allocation of brokerage on behalf of the Trust.

The Sub-Adviser will employ a variety of criteria in selecting brokers to execute trades for the account of the Trust, and will, at all times, seek best execution of such trades. The Sub-Adviser is responsible for selecting the broker or dealer used in each investment transaction for the Trust. When a transaction is effected on an exchange, the Sub-Adviser seeks to use brokers whose commissions it considers to be fair and reasonable without necessarily determining that the lowest possible commissions are paid in all circumstances. The Sub-Adviser also considers the relative creditworthiness of counterparties, including brokers and dealers, when choosing a broker or dealer as counterparty in respect of investment transactions.

The Sub-Adviser does not currently utilize "soft-dollar" arrangements, pursuant to which brokers provide research services to the Sub-Adviser in return for allocating brokerage transactions. However, the Sub-Adviser may from time to time receive or be offered research services from brokers at no stated cost or requirement to execute transactions, and may trade with such brokers.

**Commissions Paid**

The Trust paid approximately the following commissions to brokers during the fiscal years shown:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fiscal Year Ended September 30:** | **All Brokers** | **Affiliated Brokers** |
| 2024 | $0 | $0 |
| 2023 | $0 | $0 |
| 2022 | $0 | $0 |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2024 Percentages:** |  |
| Commissions with affiliate to total Transactions: | 0% |
| Value of Brokerage Transactions with affiliate to total transactions: | 0% |

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During the fiscal period ended September 30, 2024, the Trust paid $0 in brokerage commissions on transactions totaling $0 to brokers selected primarily on the basis of research services provided to the Adviser.

**TAX MATTERS**

This section and the discussion in the Prospectus (see "Tax Matters") provide a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations generally applicable to the Trust, U.S. Shareholders (as defined in the Prospectus) and Non-U.S. Shareholders (as defined in the Prospectus) that acquire Common Shares or Preferred Shares (collectively, the "Shareholders" that acquire "Shares") and that hold such Shares as capital assets within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") (generally, property held for investment). This summary does not discuss the consequences of an investment in the Common Rights or the Preferred Rights. The tax consequences of such an investment will be discussed in a relevant prospectus supplement. The discussion is based upon the Code, U.S. Treasury Regulations, judicial authorities, published positions of the IRS and other applicable authorities, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change or differing interpretations (possibly with retroactive effect). This summary does not address all of the potential U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be applicable to the Trust or to all categories of investors, some of which may be subject to special tax rules. No ruling has been or will be sought from the IRS regarding any matter discussed herein. No assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of the tax aspects set forth below. **Prospective investors should consult their tax advisors as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of acquiring, holding and disposing of Shares, as well as the effects of state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.**

**Taxation of the Trust**

The Trust has elected to be treated, and intends to qualify each year, as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. Accordingly, the Trust must, among other things, (i) derive in each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income from (a) dividends, interest (including tax-exempt interest), payments with respect to certain securities loans, and gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including gain from options, futures and forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or foreign currencies and (b) net income derived from interests in "qualified publicly traded partnerships" (as defined in the Code); and (ii) diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of each taxable year (a) at least 50% of the market value of the Trust's total assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. Government securities, the securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Trust's total assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer and (b) not more than 25% of the market value of the Trust's total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. Government securities and the securities of other RICs) of (I) any one issuer, (II) any two or more issuers that the Trust controls and that are determined to be engaged in the same business or similar or related trades or businesses or (III) any one or more "qualified publicly traded partnerships." Generally, a qualified publicly traded partnership includes a partnership the interests of which are traded on an established securities market or readily tradable on a secondary market (or the substantial equivalent thereof) and that derives less than 90% of its gross income from the items described in (i)(a) above.

As long as the Trust qualifies as a RIC, the Trust generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on income and gains that the Trust distributes to its Shareholders, provided that it distributes each taxable year at least 90% of the sum of (i) the Trust's investment company taxable income (which includes, among other items, dividends, interest, the excess of any net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss, and other taxable income, other than any net capital gain (defined below), reduced by deductible expenses) determined without regard to the deduction for dividends and distributions paid and (ii) the Trust's net tax-exempt interest (the excess of its gross tax-exempt interest over certain disallowed deductions) (the "Annual Distribution Requirement"). The Trust will be subject to income tax at regular corporate rates on any taxable income or gains that it does not distribute to its Shareholders.

The Code imposes a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the Trust to the extent the Trust does not distribute by the end of any calendar year at least the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gain or loss) for the calendar year and (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain in excess of its capital loss (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for a one-year period generally ending on October 31 of the calendar year (unless an election is made to use the Trust's taxable year) (the "Excise Tax Avoidance Requirements"). In addition, the minimum amounts that must be distributed in any year to avoid the excise tax will be increased or decreased to reflect any under-distribution or over-distribution, as the case may be, from the previous year. For purposes of the excise tax, the Trust will be deemed to have distributed any income on which it paid U.S. federal income tax in the taxable year ending within the calendar year. While the Trust intends to distribute any income and capital gain in the manner necessary to minimize imposition of the 4% nondeductible excise tax, there can be no assurance that sufficient amounts of the Trust's taxable income and capital gain will be distributed to avoid entirely the imposition of the excise tax. In that event, the Trust will be liable for the excise tax only on the amount by which it does not meet the foregoing distribution requirement.

If for any taxable year the Trust does not qualify as a RIC, all of its taxable income (including its net capital gain, which consists of the excess of its net long-term capital gain over its net short-term capital loss) will be subject to tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to Shareholders, and such distributions will be taxable to the Shareholders as ordinary dividends to the extent of the Trust's current and accumulated earnings and profits. As described below, such dividends, however, would be eligible (i) to be treated as "qualified dividend income" in the case of Shareholders taxed as individuals and (ii) for the dividends received deduction in the case of corporate Shareholders, subject, in each case, to certain holding period and other requirements. To qualify again to be taxed as a RIC in a subsequent year, the Trust would generally be required to distribute to its Shareholders its earnings and profits attributable to non-RIC years. If the Trust fails to qualify as a RIC for a period greater than two taxable years, the Trust may be required to recognize and pay tax on any net built-in gains with respect to certain of its assets (i.e., the excess of the aggregate gains, including items of income, over aggregate losses that would have been realized with respect to such assets if the Trust had been liquidated) or, alternatively, to elect to be subject to taxation on such built-in gain recognized for a period of five years, in order to qualify as a RIC in a subsequent year. The remainder of this discussion assumes that the Trust qualifies as a RIC.

**Taxation of the Trust's Investments**

Certain of the Trust's investment practices are subject to special and complex U.S. federal income tax provisions (including mark-to-market, constructive sale, straddle, wash sale, short sale and other rules) that may, among other things, (i) disallow, suspend or otherwise limit the allowance of certain losses or deductions, including the dividends received deduction, (ii) convert lower taxed long-term capital gains or "qualified dividend income" into higher taxed short-term capital gains or ordinary income, (iii) convert ordinary loss or a deduction into capital loss (the deductibility of which is more limited), (iv) cause the Trust to recognize income or gain without a corresponding receipt of cash, (v) adversely affect the time as to when a purchase or sale of stock or securities is deemed to occur, (vi) adversely alter the characterization of certain complex financial transactions and (vii) produce income that will not be "qualified" income for purposes of the 90% annual gross income requirement described above. These U.S. federal income tax provisions could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to Shareholders. The Trust intends to monitor its transactions and may make certain tax elections and may be required to dispose of securities to mitigate the effect of these provisions and prevent disqualification of the Trust as a RIC. Additionally, the Trust may be required to limit its activities in derivative instruments in order to enable the Trust to maintain its RIC status.

If the Trust acquires shares in a "passive foreign investment company" (a "PFIC"), the Trust may be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a portion of any "excess distribution" or gain from the disposition of such shares even if such income is distributed as a taxable dividend by the Trust to Shareholders. Additional charges in the nature of interest may be imposed on the Trust in respect of deferred taxes arising from such distributions or gains. If the Trust invests in a PFIC and elects to treat the PFIC as a "qualified electing fund" under the Code (a "QEF"), in lieu of the foregoing requirements, the Trust will be required to include in income each year a portion of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of the QEF, even if such income is not distributed to the Trust. Alternatively, the Trust can elect to mark to market at the end of each taxable year the Trust's shares in a PFIC; in this case, the Trust will recognize as ordinary income any increase in the value of such shares, and as ordinary loss any decrease in such value to the extent it does not exceed prior increases included in income. The Trust's ability to make either election will depend on factors beyond the Trust's control. Under either election, the Trust may be required to recognize in a year income in excess of the Trust's distributions from PFICs and the Trust's proceeds from dispositions of PFIC stock during that year, and such income will nevertheless be subject to the Annual Distribution Requirement and will be taken into account for purposes of the 4% excise tax.

If the Trust holds 10% or more of the shares in a foreign corporation that is treated as a controlled foreign corporation ("CFC"), the Trust may be treated as receiving a deemed distribution (taxable as ordinary income) each year from such foreign corporation in an amount equal to the Trust's pro rata share of the corporation's income for the taxable year (including both ordinary earnings and capital gains), whether or not the corporation makes an actual distribution during such year. In general, a foreign corporation will be classified as a CFC if more than 50% of the shares of the corporation, measured by reference to combined voting power or value, is owned (directly, indirectly or by attribution) by U.S. shareholders. A U.S. shareholder, for this purpose, is any U.S. person that possesses (directly, indirectly or by attribution) 10% or more of the combined voting power or value of all classes of shares of a corporation. If the Trust is treated as receiving a deemed distribution from a CFC, the Trust will be required to include such distribution in its investment company taxable income regardless of whether the Trust receives any actual distributions from such CFC, and the Trust must distribute such income to satisfy the Annual Distribution Requirement and the Excise Tax Avoidance Requirement.

Certain types of income received by the Trust from REITs, real estate mortgage investment conduits ("REMICs"), taxable mortgage pools or other investments may cause the Trust to designate some or all of its distributions as "excess inclusion income." To Shareholders such excess inclusion income will (i) constitute taxable income, as "unrelated business taxable income" ("UBTI") for those Shareholders who would otherwise be tax-exempt such as individual retirement accounts, 401(k) accounts, Keogh plans, pension plans and certain charitable entities, (ii) not be offset against net operating losses for tax purposes, (iii) not be eligible for reduced U.S. withholding for Non-U.S. Shareholders even from tax treaty countries and (iv) cause the Trust to be subject to tax if certain "disqualified organizations," as defined by the Code (which includes charitable remainder trusts), are Shareholders.

The Trust may invest a portion of its net assets in below investment grade securities, commonly known as "junk" securities. Investments in these types of securities may present special tax issues for the Trust. U.S. federal income tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as when the Trust may cease to accrue interest, original issue discount or market discount, when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts or worthless securities, how payments received on obligations in default should be allocated between principal and income and whether exchanges of debt instruments in a bankruptcy or workout context are taxable. The Trust intends to address these and other issues, to the extent necessary, in order to seek to ensure that the Trust distributes sufficient income to preserve its status as a RIC and does not become subject to U.S. federal income or excise tax.

Certain credit securities acquired by the Trust may be treated as credit securities that were originally issued at a discount. Generally, the amount of the original issue discount is treated as interest income and is included in taxable income (and, to the extent allocable to the Trust, is required to be distributed by the Trust in order to qualify as a RIC or avoid income or excise taxes on undistributed income) over the term of the security, even though payment of that amount is not received until a later time, usually when the debt instrument matures. If the Trust purchases a debt instrument on a secondary market at a price lower than its adjusted issue price, the excess of the adjusted issue price over the purchase price is "market discount." Unless the Trust makes an election to accrue market discount on a current basis, generally, any gain realized on the disposition of, and any partial payment of principal on, a debt instrument having market discount is treated as ordinary income to the extent the gain, or principal payment, does not exceed the "accrued market discount" on the debt instrument. Market discount generally accrues in equal daily installments.

The Trust may invest in preferred securities or other securities the U.S. federal income tax treatment of which may not be clear or may be subject to recharacterization by the IRS. To the extent the tax treatment of such securities or the income from such securities differs from the tax treatment expected by the Trust, it could affect the timing or character of income recognized by the Trust, requiring the Trust to purchase or sell securities, or otherwise change its portfolio, in order to comply with the tax rules applicable to RICs under the Code.

Gain or loss on the sales of securities by the Trust will generally be long-term capital gain or loss if the securities have been held by the Trust for more than one year. Gain or loss on the sale of securities held for one year or less will be short-term capital gain or loss.

Because the Trust may invest in foreign securities, its income from such securities may be subject to non-U.S. taxes. The Trust does not expect to be eligible to elect to "pass through" to Shareholders of the Trust the ability to use the foreign tax deduction or foreign tax credit allocable to it for foreign taxes paid by the Trust with respect to qualifying taxes.

Income from options on individual stocks written by the Trust will not be recognized by the Trust for tax purposes until an option is exercised, lapses or is subject to a "closing transaction" (as defined by applicable regulations) pursuant to which the Trust's obligations with respect to the option are otherwise terminated. If the option lapses without exercise or is otherwise subject to a closing transaction, the premiums received by the Trust from the writing of such options will generally be characterized as short-term capital gain. If an option written by the Trust is exercised, the Trust will generally recognize gain or loss depending on the exercise price of the option, the option premium, and the Trust's tax basis in the security underlying the option. The character of any gain or loss on the sale of the underlying security as short-term or long-term capital gain or loss will depend on the holding period of the Trust in the underlying security. In general, distributions received by U.S. Shareholders of the Trust that are attributable to short-term capital gains recognized by the Trust from option writing activities of the Trust will be taxed to such U.S. Shareholders as ordinary income and will not be eligible for the reduced tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income.

Options on indices of securities and sectors of securities that qualify as "section 1256 contracts" will generally be "marked-to-market" for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, the Trust will generally recognize gain or loss on the last day of each taxable year equal to the difference between the value of the option on that date and the adjusted basis of the option. The adjusted basis of the option will consequently be increased by such gain or decreased by such loss. Any gain or loss with respect to options on indices and sectors that qualify as "section 1256 contracts" will be treated as short-term capital gain or loss to the extent of 40% of such gain or loss and long-term capital gain or loss to the extent of 60% of such gain or loss. Because the mark-to-market rules may cause the Trust to recognize gain in advance of the receipt of cash, the Trust may be required to dispose of investments in order to meet its distribution requirements. "Mark-to-market" losses may be suspended or otherwise limited if such losses are part of a straddle or similar transaction.

**Taxation of U.S. Shareholders**

The Trust will either distribute or retain for reinvestment all or part of its net capital gain. If any such gain is retained, the Trust will be subject to regular corporate income tax on such retained amount. In that event, the Trust may designate the retained amount as undistributed capital gain in a notice to its Shareholders, each of whom (i) would be required to include in income for U.S. federal income tax purposes as long-term capital gain its share of such undistributed amounts, (ii) would be entitled to credit its proportionate share of the tax paid by the Trust against its U.S. federal income tax liability and to claim refunds to the extent that the credit exceeds such liability and (iii) would increase its basis in its Shares by the amount of undistributed capital gain included in such Shareholder's gross income net of the tax deemed paid by such Shareholder under clause (ii).

Distributions paid to you by the Trust from its net capital gains, if any, that the Trust properly reports as capital gains dividends ("capital gain dividends") are taxable as long-term capital gains, regardless of how long you have held your Shares. All other dividends paid to you by the Trust (including dividends from net short-term capital gains) from its current or accumulated earnings and profits ("ordinary income dividends") are generally subject to tax as ordinary income. Capital gain dividends are not eligible for the dividends received deduction.

Properly reported ordinary income dividends received by corporate holders of Shares generally will be eligible for the dividends received deduction to the extent that the Trust's income consists of dividend income from U.S. corporations and certain holding period and other requirements are satisfied by both the Trust and the corporate U.S. Shareholders. In the case of U.S. Shareholders who are individuals, any properly reported ordinary income dividends that you receive from the Trust will generally be eligible for taxation at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains to the extent that (i) the ordinary income dividend is attributable to "qualified dividend income" (i.e., generally dividends paid by U.S. corporations and certain qualified foreign corporations) received by the Trust, (ii) the Trust satisfies certain holding period and other requirements with respect to the stock on which such qualified dividend income was paid and (iii) you satisfy certain holding period and other requirements with respect to your Shares. Dividend income from PFICs and, in general, dividend income from real estate investment trusts is not eligible for the reduced rate for qualified dividend income and is taxed as ordinary income. In addition, for dividends to be eligible for the dividends received deduction or for reduced rates applicable to individuals, the Trust cannot have an option to sell or be under a contractual obligation to sell (pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) substantially identical stock or securities. Qualified dividend income eligible for these special rules is not actually treated as capital gains, however, and thus will not be included in the computation of your net capital gain and generally cannot be used to offset any capital losses. Due to the nature of the Trust's investments, the Trust does not expect that a significant portion of its distributions will be eligible for the dividends received deduction or for the reduced rates applicable to qualified dividend income.

Under Treasury regulations, for taxable years beginning before January 1, 2026, properly reported dividends paid by the Trust that are attributable to the Trust's "qualified REIT dividends" (generally, ordinary income dividends paid by a REIT, not including capital gain dividends or dividends treated as qualified dividend income) may be eligible for the 20% deduction described in Section 199A of the Code in the case of non-corporate U.S. Shareholders, provided that certain holding period and other requirements are met by the Shareholder and the Trust. There can be no assurance as to what portion, if any, of our distributions will qualify for such deduction. Subject to any future regulatory guidance to the contrary, any distribution attributable to income from the Trust's investments in publicly traded partnerships, if any, will not qualify for the 20% deduction that could be available to a non-corporate U.S. Shareholder were the Shareholder to own such partnership interests directly.

Any distributions you receive that are in excess of the Trust's current and accumulated earnings and profits will be treated as a tax-deferred return of capital to the extent of your adjusted tax basis in your Shares, and thereafter as capital gain from the sale of Shares (assuming Shares are held as a capital asset). The amount of any Trust distribution that is treated as a return of capital will reduce your adjusted tax basis in your Shares, thereby increasing your potential gain or reducing your potential loss on any subsequent sale or other disposition of your Shares. In determining the extent to which a distribution will be treated as being made from the Trust's earnings and profits, earnings and profits will be allocated on a pro rata basis first to distributions with respect to the Trust's Preferred Shares, and then to the Trust's Common Shares.

U.S. Shareholders may be entitled to offset their capital gain dividends with capital losses. The Code contains a number of statutory provisions affecting when capital losses may be offset against capital gain, and limiting the use of losses from certain investments and activities. Accordingly, Shareholders that have capital losses are urged to consult their tax advisers.

The IRS currently requires a RIC that has two or more classes of shares outstanding to designate to each such class proportionate amounts of each type of its income (e.g., ordinary income, capital gain dividends, qualified dividend income) for each tax year based upon the percentage of total dividends distributed to each class for such year.

Dividends and other taxable distributions are taxable to you even though they are reinvested in additional Shares of the Trust. Dividends and other distributions paid by the Trust are generally treated under the Code as received by you at the time the dividend or distribution is made. If, however, the Trust pays you a dividend in January that was declared in the previous October, November or December and you were the U.S. Shareholder of record on a specified date in one of such months, then such dividend will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as being paid by the Trust and received by you on December 31 of the year in which the dividend was declared. In addition, certain other distributions made after the close of the Trust's taxable year may be "spilled back" and treated as paid by the Trust (except for purposes of the 4% nondeductible excise tax) during such taxable year. In such case, you will be treated as having received such dividends in the taxable year in which the distributions were actually made.

The price of Shares purchased at any time may reflect the amount of a forthcoming distribution. Those purchasing Shares just prior to the record date of a distribution will receive a distribution which will be taxable to them even as described above though economically it represents in part a return of invested capital.

The Trust will send you information after the end of each year setting forth the amount and tax status of any distributions paid to you by the Trust.

Except in the case of a redemption, the sale or other disposition of Shares (including in connection with a termination of the Trust) will generally result in capital gain or loss to you and will be long-term capital gain or loss if you have held such Shares for more than one year at the time of sale. Any loss upon the sale or other disposition of Shares held for six months or less will be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends received (including amounts credited as an undistributed capital gain dividend) by you with respect to such Shares. Any loss you recognize on a sale or other disposition of Shares will be disallowed if you acquire other Shares (whether through the automatic reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within a 61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after your sale or exchange of Shares. In such case, your tax basis in the Shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.

In general, a redemption of Shares should be treated as a sale or exchange of such shares under section 302 of the Code, if the distribution of cash (a) is "substantially disproportionate" with respect to the Shareholder, (b) results in a "complete redemption" of the Shareholder's interest, or (c) is "not essentially equivalent to a dividend" with respect to the Shareholder. A "substantially disproportionate" distribution generally requires a reduction of at least 20% in the Shareholder's proportionate interest in the Trust and also requires the Shareholder to own less than 50% of the voting power of all classes entitled to vote immediately after the redemption. A "complete redemption" of a Shareholder's interest generally requires that all Common Shares and Preferred Shares of the Trust owned by such Shareholder be disposed of. A distribution "not essentially equivalent to a dividend" requires that there be a "meaningful reduction" in the Shareholder's proportionate interest in the Trust, which should result if the Shareholder has a minimal interest in the Trust, exercises no control over Trust affairs and suffers a reduction in his proportionate interest in the Trust. In determining whether any of these tests has been met, any Common Shares and Preferred Shares actually owned, as well as shares considered to be owned by the Shareholder by reason of certain constructive ownership rules set forth in section 318 of the Code, generally must be taken into account.

If the redemption of your Shares meets any of these three tests for "sale or exchange" treatment, you will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount of cash and the fair market value of other property received pursuant to the transaction and the adjusted tax basis of the sold Shares. If none of the tests described above are met, you may be treated as having received, in whole or in part, a dividend, return of capital or capital gain, depending on (i) whether there are sufficient earnings and profits to support a dividend and (ii) your tax basis in the relevant Shares. The tax basis in the sold Shares will be transferred to any remaining Shares held by you in the Trust. In addition, if the redemption of Shares is treated as a "dividend" to a shareholder, a constructive dividend under certain provisions of the Code may result to a non-selling Shareholder whose proportionate interest in the earnings and assets of the Trust has been increased as a result of such transaction.

Adjusted cost basis information for covered securities, which generally include shares of a RIC, must be reported to the IRS and to taxpayers. Shareholders should contact their financial intermediaries with respect to reporting of cost basis and available elections for their accounts.

Current U.S. federal income tax law taxes both long-term and short-term capital gain of corporations at the rates applicable to ordinary income. For non-corporate taxpayers, short-term capital gain is currently taxed at rates applicable to ordinary income while long-term capital gain generally is taxed at reduced maximum rates. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations under the Code.

Certain U.S. Shareholders who are individuals, estates or trusts and whose income exceeds certain thresholds will be required to pay a 3.8% Medicare tax on all or a part of their "net investment income," which includes dividends received from the Trust and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of Shares.

Ordinary income dividends, capital gain dividends, and gain on the disposition of Shares also may be subject to state, local or foreign taxes. Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding specific questions about U.S. federal (including the application of the alternative minimum tax rules), state, local or foreign tax consequences to them of investing in the Trust.

**Taxation of Non-U.S. Shareholders**

The following discussion only applies to Non-U.S. Shareholders. Whether an investment in Shares is appropriate for a Non-U.S. Shareholder will depend upon that Non-U.S. Shareholder's particular circumstances. An investment in Shares by a Non-U.S. Shareholder may have adverse tax consequences. Non-U.S. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors before investing in our Shares.

A Non-U.S. Shareholder generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at the rate of 30% (or possibly a lower rate provided by an applicable tax treaty) on ordinary income dividends (except as discussed below). In general, U.S. federal withholding tax and U.S. federal income tax will not apply to any gain or income realized by a Non-U.S. Shareholder in respect of any distribution of net capital gain (including amounts credited as an undistributed capital gain dividend) or upon the sale or other disposition of Shares of the Trust. Different tax consequences may result if the Non-U.S. Shareholder is engaged in a trade or business in the United States or, in the case of an individual, is present in the United States for 183 days or more during a taxable year and certain other conditions are met.

Dividends properly reported by the Trust are generally exempt from U.S. federal withholding tax where they (i) are paid in respect of the Trust's "qualified net interest income" (generally, the Trust's U.S.-source interest income, other than certain contingent interest and interest from obligations of a corporation or partnership in which the Trust is at least a 10% shareholder, reduced by expenses that are allocable to such income) or (ii) are paid in respect of the Trust's "qualified short-term capital gains" (generally, the excess of the Trust's net short-term capital gain over the Trust's long-term capital loss for such taxable year). Depending on its circumstances, the Trust may report all, some or none of its potentially eligible dividends as such qualified net interest income or as qualified short-term capital gains, and/or treat such dividends, in whole or in part, as ineligible for this exemption from withholding. In order to qualify for this exemption from withholding, a Non-U.S. Shareholder needs to comply with applicable certification requirements relating to its non-U.S. status (including, in general, furnishing an IRS Form W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E or substitute Form). In the case of Shares held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if the Trust reports the payment as qualified net interest income or qualified short-term capital gain. Non-U.S. Shareholders should contact their intermediaries with respect to the application of these rules to their accounts. There can be no assurance as to what portion of the Trust's distributions will qualify for favorable treatment as qualified net interest income or qualified short-term capital gains.

If the Trust distributes its net capital gains in the form of deemed rather than actual distributions, a Non-U.S. Shareholder will be entitled to a U.S. federal income tax credit or tax refund equal to the Non-U.S. Shareholder's allocable share of the tax that the Trust pays on the capital gains deemed to have been distributed. In order to obtain the refund, the Non-U.S. Shareholder must obtain a U.S. taxpayer identification number and file a federal income tax return even if the Non-U.S. Shareholder is not otherwise required to obtain a U.S. taxpayer identification number or file a federal income tax return. For a Non-U.S. Shareholder, distributions (both actual and deemed), and gains realized upon the sale of Shares that are effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business (or, where an applicable treaty applies, are attributable to a permanent establishment in the United States) will generally be subject to U.S. federal income tax at the rates applicable to U.S. persons and for a corporate Non-U.S. Shareholder may, under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional "branch profits tax" at a 30% rate (or at a lower rate if provided for by an applicable tax treaty). Accordingly, investment in Shares may not be appropriate for certain Non-U.S. Shareholders.

In addition, withholding at a rate of 30% is required on dividends in respect of Shares held by or through certain foreign financial institutions (including investment funds), unless such institution enters into an agreement with the Secretary of the Treasury to report, on an annual basis, information with respect to interests in, and accounts maintained by, the institution to the extent such interests or accounts are held by certain U.S. persons and by certain non-U.S. entities that are wholly or partially owned by U.S. persons and to withhold on certain payments. Accordingly, the entity through which Shares are held will affect the determination of whether such withholding is required. Similarly, dividends in respect of Shares held by an investor that is a non-financial non-U.S. entity that does not qualify under certain exemptions will be subject to withholding at a rate of 30%, unless such entity either (i) certifies to the applicable withholding agent that such entity does not have any "substantial United States owners" or (ii) provides certain information regarding the entity's "substantial United States owners," which the applicable withholding agent will in turn provide to the Secretary of the Treasury. The Trust will not pay any additional amounts to Shareholders in respect of any amounts withheld. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and an applicable foreign country, or future Treasury regulations or other guidance, may modify these requirements. Shareholders are encouraged to consult their tax advisors regarding the possible implications of the legislation on their investment in Shares.

**GENERAL INFORMATION**

**Proxy Voting Policy and Procedures and Proxy Voting Record**

The Sub-Adviser will be responsible for voting proxies on securities held in the Trust's portfolio. The Sub-Adviser's Proxy Voting Policy and Procedures are included as Appendix B to this Statement of Additional Information.

Information on how the Trust voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 will be available without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 903-3358 or by visiting the Trust's website at www.xainvestments.com. This information is also available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

**Principal Shareholders**

As of December 31, 2024, based upon Schedule 13D/13G filings with the SEC, the following person were known to the Fund to be beneficial owners of more than 5% of the Fund's outstanding voting securities:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Name and Address of Beneficial<br> Owner(s) | Title of Class | Amount of Shares and<br> Nature of Ownership | Percent of<br> Class |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Karpus Investment Management<br> 183 Sully's Trail, Pittsford, New York 14534 | 6.50% 2026 Term <br> Preferred Shares | 375,743 (beneficial) | 23.5% |

---

As of December 31, 2024, the Trustees and officers of the Trust as a group owned approximately 1.72% of the outstanding Common Shares of the Trust.

*Preferred Share Voting Arrangements*

The purchasers of the 6.95% Series II 2029 Convertible Preferred Shares (collectively, the "Purchasers") and the investment manager to such Purchasers (the "Purchaser Investment Manager") have granted the Trust an irrevocable proxy to vote at any annual meeting or special meeting of shareholders of the Trust all Outstanding Preferred Shares held by the Purchasers, the Purchaser Investment Manager, any other person controlled by the parent company of the Purchaser Investment Manager, or any other investment vehicles or accounts sponsored or managed by the Purchaser Investment Manager or any person controlled by the parent company of the Purchaser Investment Manager, or which the Purchaser Investment Manager or any person controlled by the parent company of the Purchaser Investment Manager otherwise has or shares the power to vote, or to direct the voting of, as of the record date for the applicable annual or special meeting of shareholders of the Trust in the same proportion as the vote of all other holders.

**Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm**

Cohen & Company, Ltd., 1350 Euclid Ave., Suite 800, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, is the independent registered public accounting firm of the Trust. The independent registered public accounting firm is expected to render an opinion annually on the financial statements and financial highlights of the Trust.

The Trust's audited financial statements and financial highlights appearing in the Trust's Annual Report, including accompanying notes thereto and the report of Cohen & Company, Ltd. thereon, have been incorporated by reference in this SAI in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

**Codes of Ethics**

The Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser each have adopted its own code of ethics. The codes of ethics sets forth restrictions on the trading activities of trustees/directors, officers and employees of the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser and their affiliates, as applicable. The codes of ethics of the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are on file with the SEC. The codes of ethics are available on the EDGAR Database on the SEC's Internet site at www.sec.gov, and copies of the code of ethics may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following email address: publicinfo@sec.gov.

**Where You Can Find More Information**

The Trust is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and the 1940 Act and in accordance therewith files, or will file, reports and other information with the SEC. The SEC maintains a web site at www.sec.gov containing reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants, including the Trust, that file electronically with the SEC.

This Statement of Additional Information constitutes part of a Registration Statement filed by the Trust with the SEC under the Securities Act, and the 1940 Act. This Statement of Additional Information omits certain of the information contained in the Registration Statement, and reference is hereby made to the Registration Statement and related exhibits for further information with respect to the Trust and the Common Shares offered hereby. Any statements contained herein concerning the provisions of any document are, in each instance, qualified by reference to the copy of such document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement or otherwise filed with the SEC. Each such statement is qualified in its entirety by such reference. The complete Registration Statement may be obtained from the SEC upon payment of the fee prescribed by its rules and regulations or free of charge through the SEC's website (www.sec.gov).

The Trust will provide without charge to each person, including any beneficial owner, to whom this SAI is delivered, upon written or oral request, a copy of any and all of the information that has been incorporated by reference in this SAI, the Prospectus or any accompanying Prospectus Supplement. You may request such information by calling (888) 903-3358 or by writing to XA Investments at 321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430, Chicago, Illinois 60654, or you may obtain a copy (and other information regarding the Trust) from the SEC's website (www.sec.gov). Free copies of the Trust's Prospectus, SAI and any incorporated information will also be available from the Trust's website at www.xainvestments.com. Information contained on the trust's website is not incorporated by reference into this SAI, the Prospectus or any Prospectus Supplement and should not be considered to be part of this SAI, the Prospectus or any Prospectus Supplement.

**Incorporation by Reference**

This Statement of Additional Information is part of a registration statement that the Trust has filed with the SEC. The Trust is permitted to "incorporate by reference" the information that it files with the SEC, which means that the Trust can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is an important part of this Statement of Additional Information, and later information that the Trust files with the SEC will automatically update and supersede this information.

The documents listed below, and any reports and other documents subsequently filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 30(b)(2) under the 1940 Act and Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, prior to the termination of the offering, and any reports and other documents subsequently filed by the Fund with the SEC pursuant to Rule 30(b)(2) under the 1940 Act and Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date of the initial registration statement and prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement, are incorporated by reference into this Statement of Additional Information and deemed to be part of this Statement of Additional Information from the date of the filing of such reports and documents:

● the Trust's Statement of Additional Information, dated &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; , filed with this Prospectus ("SAI");

● the Trust's Annual Report on Form N-CSR for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024, filed with the SEC on [December 3, 2024](http://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) ("Annual Report");

● the Trust's Semi-Annual Report on Form N-CSRS for the period ended March 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on [June 6, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390025052112/ea0244248-01_ncsrs.htm) ("Semi-Annual Report");

● the Trust's current report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on [March 26, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000101376225002749/ea0235689-01_8k.htm) ;

● the Trust's definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A for its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, filed with the SEC on [May 8, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425009020/fp0093538-1_def14a.htm) ("Proxy Statement");

● the Trust's description of common shares contained in our Registration Statement on Form 8-A (File No. 001-38216) filed with the SEC on [September 22, 2017](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517291062/d446215d8a12b.htm) ; and

● The Trust's description of 2026 Preferred Shares contained in its Registration Statement on Form 8-A (File No. 001-38216) filed with the SEC on [March 26, 2021](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390021017871/s131323_8a12b.htm) .

To obtain copies of these filings, see "General Information—Where You Can Find More Information."

**FINANCIAL STATEMENTS**

The Trust's audited financial statements and financial highlights appearing in the Trust's [Annual Report](http://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm) to shareholders for the year ended September 30, 2024, including accompanying notes thereto and the report of Cohen & Company, Ltd. thereon, as contained in the Trust's Form N-CSR filed with the SEC on December 3, 2024, are incorporated by reference in this Statement of Additional Information. The Trust's unaudited financial statements and financial highlights appearing in the Trust's [Semi-Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390025052112/ea0244248-01_ncsrs.htm) to shareholders for the period ended March 31, 2025, including accompanying notes thereto, as contained in the Trust's Form N-CSRS filed with the SEC on June 6, 2025, are incorporated by reference in this Statement of Additional Information. Shareholder reports are available upon request and without charge by calling (888) 903-3358 or by writing to the Trust at 321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430, Chicago, Illinois 60654.

**<u>Appendix A</u>**

**DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES RATINGS**

**<u>Moody's Investors Service Inc.</u>**

A brief description of the applicable Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") rating symbols and their meanings (as published by Moody's) follows:

**Global Rating Scales**

Ratings assigned on Moody's global long-term and short-term rating scales are forward-looking opinions of the relative credit risks of financial obligations issued by non-financial corporates, financial institutions, structured finance vehicles, project finance vehicles, and public sector entities. Long-term ratings are assigned to issuers or obligations with an original maturity of one year or more and reflect both on the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default. Short-term ratings are assigned to obligations with an original maturity of thirteen months or less and reflect both on the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments.

Moody's differentiates structured finance ratings from fundamental ratings (i.e., ratings on nonfinancial corporate, financial institution, and public sector entities) on the global long-term scale by adding (sf) to all structured finance ratings. The addition of (sf) to structured finance ratings should eliminate any presumption that such ratings and fundamental ratings at the same letter grade level will behave the same. The (sf) indicator for structured finance security ratings indicates that otherwise similarly rated structured finance and fundamental securities may have different risk characteristics. Through its current methodologies, however, Moody's aspire to achieve broad expected equivalence in structured finance and fundamental rating performance when measured over a long period of time.

**Global Long-Term Rating Scale**

Aaa Obligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.

Aa Obligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.

A Obligations rated A are judged to be upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.

Baa Obligations rated Baa are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.

Ba Obligations rated Ba are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk.

B Obligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.

Caa Obligations rated Caa are judged to be of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.

Ca Obligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.

C Obligations rated C are the lowest-rated class of bonds and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.

Note: Moody's appends numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category. Additionally, a "(hyb)" indicator is appended to all ratings of hybrid securities issued by banks, insurers, finance companies, and securities firms.\*

\* *By their terms, hybrid securities allow for the omission of scheduled dividends, interest, or principal payments, which can potentially result in impairment if such an omission occurs. Hybrid securities may also be subject to contractually allowable write-downs of principal that could result in impairment. Together with the hybrid indicator, the long-term obligation rating assigned to a hybrid security is an expression of the relative credit risk associated with that security.*

**Medium-Term Note Program Ratings**

Moody's assigns provisional ratings to medium-term note (MTN) programs and definitive ratings to the individual debt securities issued from them (referred to as drawdowns or notes).

MTN program ratings are intended to reflect the ratings likely to be assigned to drawdowns issued from the program with the specified priority of claim (e.g., senior or subordinated). To capture the contingent nature of a program rating, Moody's assigns provisional ratings to MTN programs. A provisional rating is denoted by a (P) in front of the rating and is defined elsewhere in this document.

The rating assigned to a drawdown from a rated MTN or bank/deposit note program is definitive in nature, and may differ from the program rating if the drawdown is exposed to additional credit risks besides the issuer's default, such as links to the defaults of other issuers, or has other structural features that warrant a different rating. In some circumstances, no rating may be assigned to a drawdown.

Moody's encourages market participants to contact Moody's Ratings Desks or visit www.moodys.com directly if they have questions regarding ratings for specific notes issued under a medium-term note program. Unrated notes issued under an MTN program may be assigned an NR (not rated) symbol.

**Global Short-Term Rating Scale**

P-1 Ratings of Prime-1 reflect a superior ability to repay short-term obligations.

P-2 Ratings of Prime-2 reflect a strong ability to repay short-term obligations.

P-3 Ratings of Prime-3 reflect an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.

NP Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.

**<u>Standard & Poor's</u>**

A brief description of the applicable Standard & Poor's rating symbols and their meanings (as published by S&P Global Ratings) follows:

**Issue Credit Ratings Definitions**

An S&P Global Ratings issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation and takes into account the currency in which the obligation is denominated. The opinion reflects S&P Global Ratings' view of the obligor's capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due, and this opinion may assess terms, such as collateral security and subordination, which could affect ultimate payment in the event of default.

Issue credit ratings can be either long-term or short-term. Short-term issue credit ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market, typically with an original maturity of no more than 365 days. Short-term issue credit ratings are also used to indicate the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to put features on long-term obligations. S&P Global Ratings would typically assign a long-term issue credit rating to an obligation with an original maturity of greater than 365 days. However, the ratings S&P Global Ratings assigns to certain instruments may diverge from these guidelines based on market practices. Medium-term notes are assigned long-term ratings.

**Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings**

Issue credit ratings are based, in varying degrees, on S&P Global Ratings' analysis of the following considerations:

● The likelihood of payment—the capacity and willingness of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on an obligation in accordance with the terms of the obligation;

● The nature of and provisions of the financial obligation, and the promise we impute; and

● The protection afforded by, and relative position of, the obligation in the event of a bankruptcy, reorganization, or other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors' rights.

An issue rating is an assessment of default risk but may incorporate an assessment of relative seniority or ultimate recovery in the event of default. Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior obligations, to reflect lower priority in bankruptcy, as noted above. (Such differentiation may apply when an entity has both senior and subordinated obligations, secured and unsecured obligations, or operating company and holding company obligations.)

AAA An obligation rated 'AAA' has the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is extremely strong.

AA An obligation rated 'AA' differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is very strong.

A An obligation rated 'A' is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is still strong.

BBB An obligation rated 'BBB' exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

BB, B, CCC, CC, and C

Obligations rated 'BB', 'B', 'CCC', 'CC', and 'C' are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. 'BB' indicates the least degree of speculation and 'C' the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| BB | An obligation rated 'BB' is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| B | An obligation rated 'B' is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated 'BB', but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor's capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. |

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CCC An obligation rated 'CCC' is currently vulnerable to nonpayment, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

CC An obligation rated 'CC' is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The 'CC' rating is used when a default has not yet occurred but S&P Global Ratings expects default to be a virtual certainty, regardless of the anticipated time to default.

C An obligation rated 'C' is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, and the obligation is expected to have lower relative seniority or lower ultimate recovery compared to obligations that are rated higher.

D An obligation rated 'D' is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the 'D' rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within the next five business days in the absence of a stated grace period or within the earlier of the stated grace period or 30 calendar days. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. A rating on an obligation is lowered to 'D' if it is subject to a distressed debt restructuring.

Plus (+) or minus (-)

The ratings from 'AA' to 'CCC' may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.

NR NR indicates that a rating has not been assigned or is no longer assigned.

**Short-Term Issue Credit Ratings**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| A-1 | A short-term obligation rated 'A-1' is rated in the highest category by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on these obligations is extremely strong. |

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A-2 A short-term obligation rated 'A-2' is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is satisfactory.

A-3 A short-term obligation rated 'A-3' exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| B | A short-term obligation rated 'B' is regarded as vulnerable and has significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments. |

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C A short-term obligation rated 'C' is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

D A short-term obligation rated 'D' is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the 'D' rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. A rating on an obligation is lowered to 'D' if it is subject to a distressed debt restructuring.

**SPUR (Standard & Poor's Underlying Rating)**

A SPUR is an opinion about the stand-alone capacity of an obligor to pay debt service on a credit-enhanced debt issue, without giving effect to the enhancement that applies to it. These ratings are published only at the request of the debt issuer or obligor with the designation SPUR to distinguish them from the credit-enhanced rating that applies to the debt issue. S&P Global Ratings maintains surveillance of an issue with a published SPUR.

**Dual Ratings**

Dual ratings may be assigned to debt issues that have a put option or demand feature. The first component of the rating addresses the likelihood of repayment of principal and interest as due, and the second component of the rating addresses only the demand feature. The first component of the rating can relate to either a short-term or long-term transaction and accordingly use either short-term or long-term rating symbols. The second component of the rating relates to the put option and is assigned a short-term rating symbol (for example, 'AAA/A-1+' or 'A-1+/A-1'). With U.S. municipal short-term demand debt, the U.S. municipal short-term note rating symbols are used for the first component of the rating (for example, 'SP-1+/A-1+').

**<u>Fitch Ratings</u>**

**Long-Term Credit Ratings** 

Rated entities in a number of sectors, including financial and non-financial corporations, sovereigns, insurance companies and certain sectors within public finance, are generally assigned Issuer Default Ratings ("IDRs"). IDRs are also assigned to certain entities or enterprises in global infrastructure, project finance and public finance. IDRs opine on an entity's relative vulnerability to default (including by way of a distressed debt exchange) on financial obligations. The threshold default risk addressed by the IDR is generally that of the financial obligations whose non-payment would best reflect the uncured failure of that entity. As such, IDRs also address relative vulnerability to bankruptcy, administrative receivership or similar concepts.

In aggregate, IDRs provide an ordinal ranking of issuers based on the agency's view of their relative vulnerability to default, rather than a prediction of a specific percentage likelihood of default.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| AAA: | Highest credit quality. 'AAA' ratings denote the lowest expectation of default risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events. |
| AA: | Very high credit quality. 'AA' ratings denote expectations of very low default risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events. |
| A: | High credit quality. 'A' ratings denote expectations of low default risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings. |
| BBB: | Good credit quality. 'BBB' ratings indicate that expectations of default risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity. |
| BB: | Speculative. 'BB' ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to default risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial flexibility exists that supports the servicing of financial commitments. |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| B: | Highly speculative. 'B' ratings indicate that material default risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is vulnerable to deterioration in the business and economic environment. |
| CCC: | Substantial credit risk. Default is a real possibility. |
| CC: | Very high levels of credit risk. Default of some kind appears probable. |
| C: | Near default. A default or default-like process has begun, or the issuer is in standstill, or for a closed funding vehicle, payment capacity is irrevocably impaired. Conditions that are indicative of a 'C' category rating for an issuer include: |

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● the issuer has entered into a grace or cure period following non-payment of a material financial obligation;

● the issuer has entered into a temporary negotiated waiver or standstill agreement following a payment default on a material financial obligation;

● the formal announcement by the issuer or their agent of a distressed debt exchange;

● a closed financing vehicle where payment capacity is irrevocably impaired such that it is not expected to pay interest and/or principal in full during the life of the transaction, but where no payment default is imminent

RD: Restricted default. 'RD' ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch Ratings' opinion has experienced:

● an uncured payment default or distressed debt exchange on a bond, loan or other material financial obligation, but

● has not entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation or other formal winding-up,

● has not otherwise ceased operating. This would include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;o the selective payment default on a specific class or currency of debt;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;o the uncured expiry of any applicable grace period, cure period or default forbearance period following a payment default on a bank
loan, capital markets security or other material financial obligation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;o the extension of multiple waivers or forbearance periods upon
a payment default on one or more material financial obligations, either in series or in parallel; ordinary execution of a distressed
debt exchange on one or more material financial obligations.

D: Default. 'D' ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch Ratings' opinion has entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation or other formal winding-up procedure or that has otherwise ceased business.

Default ratings are not assigned prospectively to entities or their obligations; within this context, non-payment on an instrument that contains a deferral feature or grace period will generally not be considered a default until after the expiration of the deferral or grace period, unless a default is otherwise driven by bankruptcy or other similar circumstance, or by a distressed debt exchange.

In all cases, the assignment of a default rating reflects the agency's opinion as to the most appropriate rating category consistent with the rest of its universe of ratings and may differ from the definition of default under the terms of an issuer's financial obligations or local commercial practice.

"Imminent" default, categorized under 'C', typically refers to the occasion where a payment default has been intimated by the issuer and is all but inevitable. This may, for example, be where an issuer has missed a scheduled payment but (as is typical) has a grace period during which it may cure the payment default. Another alternative would be where an issuer has formally announced a distressed debt exchange, but the date of the exchange still lies several days or weeks in the immediate future.

The modifiers "+" or "-" may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. For example, the rating category 'AA' has three notch-specific rating levels ('AA+'; 'AA'; 'AA-'; each a rating level). Such suffixes are not added to 'AAA' ratings and ratings below the 'CCC' category.

**Recovery Ratings** 

Recovery Ratings are assigned to selected individual securities and obligations, most frequently for individual obligations of corporate finance issuers with IDRs in speculative grade categories.

Among the factors that affect recovery rates for securities are the collateral, the seniority relative to other obligations in the capital structure (where appropriate), and the expected value of the company or underlying collateral in distress.

The Recovery Rating scale is based on the expected relative recovery characteristics of an obligation upon the curing of a default, emergence from insolvency or following the liquidation or termination of the obligor or its associated collateral.

Recovery Ratings are an ordinal scale and do not attempt to precisely predict a given level of recovery. As a guideline in developing the rating assessments, the agency employs broad theoretical recovery bands in its ratings approach based on historical averages and analytical judgement, but actual recoveries for a given security may deviate materially from historical averages.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| RR1: | *Outstanding recovery prospects given default.* 'RR1' rated securities have characteristics consistent with securities historically recovering 91%-100% of current principal and related interest. |
| RR2: | *Superior recovery prospects given default.* 'RR2' rated securities have characteristics consistent with securities historically recovering 71%-90% of current principal and related interest. |
| RR3: | *Good recovery prospects given default.* 'RR3' rated securities have characteristics consistent with securities historically recovering 51%-70% of current principal and related interest. |
| RR4: | *Average recovery prospects given default.* 'RR4' rated securities have characteristics consistent with securities historically recovering 31%-50% of current principal and related interest. |
| RR5: | *Below average recovery prospects given default.* 'RR5' rated securities have characteristics consistent with securities historically recovering 11%-30% of current principal and related interest. |
| RR6: | *Poor recovery prospects given default.* 'RR6' rated securities have characteristics consistent with securities historically recovering 0%-10% of current principal and related interest. |

---

**Short-Term Ratings Assigned to Issuers and Obligations** 

A short-term issuer or obligation rating is based in all cases on the short-term vulnerability to default of the rated entity and relates to the capacity to meet financial obligations in accordance with the documentation governing the relevant obligation. Short-term deposit ratings may be adjusted for loss severity. Short-Term Ratings are assigned to obligations whose initial maturity is viewed as "short term" based on market convention. Typically, this means up to 13 months for corporate, sovereign, and structured obligations and up to 36 months for obligations in U.S. public finance markets.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| F1: | Highest short-term credit quality. Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature. |
| F2: | Good short-term credit quality. Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. |
| F3: | Fair short-term credit quality. The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate. |
| B: | Speculative short-term credit quality. Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions. |
| C: | High short-term default risk. Default is a real possibility. |
| RD: | Restricted default. Indicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet other financial obligations. Typically applicable to entity ratings only. |
| D: | Default. Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation. |

---

**Appendix B**

**PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES**

OCTAGON CREDIT INVESTORS, LLC

PROXY VOTING POLICY

**<u>Scope</u>**

Octagon's Proxy Voting Policy addresses procedures and policies related to Octagon's voting of proxies and participating in other corporate actions in a manner consistent with Clients' best interest.

This policy should be read in conjunction with the Account Administration Policy, Code of Ethics Overview, and Recordkeeping Policy. This policy applies to all Octagon "Covered Persons" which is defined to include all of the partners, owners, principals, directors, officers and employees of Octagon Credit Investors, LLC.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A. Overview of Applicable Law

Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act requires that, where Octagon has authority to vote Client securities on behalf of Clients, the Firm must vote proxies in a manner consistent with each Client's best interest and must not place its interests above those of its Clients when doing so. It requires Octagon to: (i) adopt and implement written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to ensure that Octagon votes proxies in the best interest of its Clients, and (ii) to disclose to Clients how they may obtain information on how Octagon voted. In addition, Rule 204-2 requires Octagon to keep records of proxy voting and Client requests for information.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;B. Policies and Procedures Relating to Proxies

Due to the nature of Octagon's business, it is very rare that Octagon will be asked to vote a shareholder proxy, however when Clients hold securities interests in either public or private companies and a shareholder vote takes place, Octagon shall vote in accordance with the following policies and procedures.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Definitions.

● "Best Interest of the Client." Octagon believes that this means the Client's best economic interests over the long-term. The Best Interest of the Client may differ among holding the securities.

● "Material Conflicts of Interest." Such conflicts are typically based on the specific facts and circumstances associated with the issues that are the subject of the proxy and Octagon's and its employees' business dealings with a particular proxy issuer or closely affiliated entity. A material conflict of interest may exist where, for example: (1) the company soliciting the proxy, or a person known to be an affiliate of such company, is known to be a Client of, or an investor in an Account managed, by Octagon; (2) the company soliciting the proxy, or a person known to be an affiliate of such company, to the knowledge of the individual(s) charged with voting the proxy, is being actively solicited to be a Client of Octagon (or an investor in an Octagon Account); (3) a Client or investor, or an interest group supported by Client or investor, actively supports a proxy proposal; (4) Octagon or an employee has personal or other business relationships with participants in proxy contests, corporate directors or candidates for corporate directorships, or in any other matter coming before shareholders; or (5) accounts may have inherent conflicts due to differing interests in potential outcomes of a shareholder vote, including accounts that do not hold equity but are affected by the outcome of a vote.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Responsibilities of Investment Professionals to Monitor Issuers for Upcoming Shareholder Meetings.

Octagon Investment Professionals shall monitor all of the issuers that such individuals cover where Octagon Client Accounts hold securities (typically equity shares) of such issuers for any upcoming shareholder meetings. Octagon Investment Professionals shall provide notice of such upcoming shareholder meetings in advance of such meetings to the relevant Investment Committee(s), Head of Credit Administration and the CCO, and copy the public email folder "Trade-Proxy-Authorizations".

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Receipt and Reconciliation of Proxies.

All proxy materials received by Octagon for Octagon accounts shall be forwarded to the CCO or his/her designee. The CCO shall record on a log the name of the company to which the proxy materials relate (the "Portfolio Company"), the date the proxy materials are received and the date by which the proxy needs to be voted

The CCO shall compare the number of shares represented by the proxy materials to the number of shares owned by Octagon's Clients. If the number of shares reflected in the proxy materials does not match the number of shares reported owned by Clients, the CCO will resolve any difference and ensure that all eligible shares can be voted.

Upon completion of the reconciliation process, the CCO shall forward the proxy materials to the Investment Committee for voting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. Proxy Voting Process.

The applicable Investment Committee(s) or its designee shall vote all proxies in the best interests of Octagon's Clients pursuant to the goals of the Client's investment strategy. The Investment Committee will follow the procedures set forth below in order to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interests of Octagon's Clients.

Prior to exercising voting authority on any matter, the Investment Committee(s) and Compliance department shall review the proxy materials and undertake a reasonable investigation to determine whether any of the matters to be voted on present a material conflict of interest between Octagon and the interests of its Clients.

Where the Investment Committee(s) or Compliance Department's investigation determines that a material conflict of interest may exist, it shall take reasonable steps to ensure that the conflict does not influence the Investment Committee members to vote the proxy in a manner that is not in the best interests of Octagon's Clients. These steps may include, but are not limited to any one or a combination of the following:

● Consult with Octagon's Outside Counsel to determine how to vote in a manner that will be in the best interests of Octagon's Clients;

● Erecting information barriers around conflicted Octagon personnel to ensure that they do not influence the voting decision.

The Investment Committee members shall make and maintain a record describing any steps taken to prevent a potential material conflict of interest from causing a proxy to be voted in a manner that is not in the best interest of Octagon's Clients.

Where the Investment Committee members and Compliance determines that no material conflict of interest exists, the matter shall be analyzed based on its specific facts and circumstances by each Portfolio Manager for their respective accounts, and a member of the Investment Committee shall vote on the matter in the best interest of Octagon's Clients.

The CCO shall maintain records disclosing the date all proxies were voted and how they were voted. The CCO, or her designee, will highlight where a proxy vote involves executive compensation ("say-on-pay"), as Octagon must report these votes annually on Form N-PX. Furthermore, where Octagon casts a proxy vote or abstains from voting on behalf of a registered fund, Compliance will highlight in its records to which of the fourteen categories enumerated on Form N-PX a proxy vote applies (this information will need to be included in annual NPX reporting made on behalf of any registered fund advised or sub-advised by Octagon).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5. Requests for Voting Information, Communications and Record-Keeping.

If a Client requests information regarding how proxies were voted or a copy of Octagon's proxy voting policy and procedures, the Head of Investor Relations shall provide the Client with the requested information. The Head of Investor Relations shall make and retain a copy of each request received together with a copy of the response provided, and he/she shall notify the CCO of such request.

Octagon will maintain all records relating to proxy voting as set forth in the Recordkeeping Policy.

Communications by Octagon with other shareholders during the course of a proxy solicitation may also be deemed to be a "solicitation" for purposes of the federal proxy rules, which contain requirements regarding the filing and distribution of proxy materials. In addition, such communications could cause Octagon to be considered part of a group for federal reporting purposes, potentially triggering a filing on Forms 13D or 13G. Compliance shall make any determination regarding the applicability of the federal proxy rules in the event such a situation arises.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;C. Opposing Votes

Note that if more than one Account invests in the same portfolio company, and such Accounts have different investment objectives, Client-specific voting policies or ultimate economic interests, Octagon may cast opposing votes in a proxy vote.

**<u>Oversight</u>**

The CCO, Investment Committee, and members of the Compliance Committee, and other senior management as appropriate, shall supervise compliance by Covered Persons with this policy. The CCO shall assess the adequacy of this policy and the firm's adherence to the procedures outlined herein, periodically.

Policy date: January 2011, Updated May 2013, July 2015, August 2017, August 2019, January 2021, January 2022, January 2024, September 2024.

**PART C**

**OTHER INFORMATION**

**Item 25. Financial Statements And Exhibits**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Financial Statements

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Part A - | Incorporated by reference in the Prospectus included herein are the Registrant's audited financial statements for the period ended September 30, 2024, notes to such financial statements and the report of independent registered public accounting firm thereon, as contained in the Trust's Form N-CSR filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on [December 3, 2024](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm). |

---

Incorporated by reference in the Prospectus included herein are the Registrant's unaudited financial statements for the period ended March 31, 2025 and notes to such financial statements, as contained in the Trust's Form N-CSRS filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on [June 6, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390025052112/ea0244248-01_ncsrs.htm).

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Part B - | Incorporated by reference in the Statement of Additional Information included herein are the Registrant's audited financial statements for the period ended September 30, 2024, notes to such financial statements and the report of independent registered public accounting firm thereon, as contained in the Trust's Form N-CSR filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on [December 3, 2024](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390024104761/ea0223186-01_ncsr.htm). |

---

Incorporated by reference in the Statement of Additional Information included herein are the Registrant's unaudited financial statements for the period ended March 31, 2025 and notes to such financial statements, as contained in the Trust's Form N-CSRS filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on [June 6, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390025052112/ea0244248-01_ncsrs.htm).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Exhibits

(a) (i) [Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust of Registrant(1)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000114420417037075/v470845_ex99-a2.htm)

(ii) [Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust of Registrant(2)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517293169/d446215dex99aii.htm)

(iii) [Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares(7)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390021018120/s131344_ex3-1.htm)

(iv) [Amendment No. 1 to Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares(8)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390021047207/s133454_ex3-1.htm)

(v) [Appendix B of Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares (9)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390022035944/s138463_ex3-1.htm)

(vi) [Appendix C of Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares (10)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390023084389/ea164490_ex3-1.htm)

(vii) [Appendix D of Statement of Preferences of Term Preferred Shares (12)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390024053004/ea020768101_ex3-1.htm)

(b) (i) [By-Laws of Registrant(1)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000114420417037075/v470845_ex99-b.htm)

(ii) [Amendment to By-Laws of Registrant(2)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517293169/d446215dex99bii.htm)

(c) Not applicable

(d) Not applicable

(e) [Dividend Reinvestment Plan of Registrant(2)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517293169/d446215dex99e.htm)

(f) Not applicable

(g) (i) [Investment Advisory Agreement between Registrant and XA Investments LLC (the "Adviser")(3)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99g1.htm)

(ii) [Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement among Registrant, the Adviser and Octagon Credit Investors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser")(11)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390024031328/ea0203379-01_ex101.htm)

(h) Form of Underwriting/Sales/Dealer Manager Agreement(+)

(i) Not applicable

(j) [Custody Agreement between Registrant and U.S. Bank N.A.(3)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99j.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) (i) (1) [Transfer Agency Agreement between Registrant and DST Systems, Inc.(3)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99k1.htm)

(2) [Amendment No. 1 to Transfer Agency Agreement(7)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390021017829/s131320_ex10-2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) (1) [Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement between Registrant and ALPS Fund Services, Inc.(3)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99k2.htm)

(2) [Amendment to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement(4)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312519293271/d628735dex99kii2.htm)

(3) [Amendment No. 2 to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement(5)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312520001396/d837710dex99k23.htm)

(4) [Amendment No. 3 to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement(7)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390021017829/s131320_ex10-1.htm)

(iii) [Chief Compliance Officer Services Agreement between Registrant and ALPS Fund Services, Inc.(3)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99k3.htm)

(iv) (1) [Investor Services and Secondary Market Support Services Agreement between Registrant and the Adviser(3)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99k4.htm)

(2) [Amendment to Investor Services and Secondary Market Support Services Agreement(6)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000121390020041173/s129031_ex-kiv2.htm)

(v) [Expense Limitation Agreement between Registrant and the Adviser(3)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99k5.htm)

(vi) [Credit Agreement between Registrant and BNP Paribas SA (13)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000101376225002749/ea023568901_ex10-1.htm)

(l) [Opinion and Consent of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP(\*)](fp0093829-1_ex9925l.htm)

(m) Not applicable

(n) [Consent of Cohen & Company Ltd.(\*)](fp0093829-1_ex9925n.htm)

(o) Not applicable

(p) [Subscription Agreement(2)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517293169/d446215dex99p.htm)

(q) Not applicable

(r) (i) [Code of Ethics of the Registrant(2)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517293169/d446215dex99ri.htm)

(ii) [Code of Ethics of the Adviser(3)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312518289541/d628735dex99r2.htm)

(ii) [Code of Ethics of the Sub-Adviser(2)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000119312517293169/d446215dex99riii.htm)

(s) [Calculation of Filing Fee Exhibit (\*)](fp0093829-1_ex9925s.htm)

(t) (i) [Power of Attorney(13)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425000999/fp0092057-1_ex9925ti.htm)

(z) (i) [Form of Prospectus Supplement for Common Shares Offering(14)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425000999/fp0092057-1_ex9925zi.htm)

(ii) [Form of Prospectus Supplement for Preferred Shares Offering(14)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425000999/fp0092057-1_ex9925zii.htm)

(iii) [Form of Prospectus Supplement for Common Rights Offering(14)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425000999/fp0092057-1_ex9925ziii.htm)

(iv) [Form of Prospectus Supplement for Preferred Rights Offering(14)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1703079/000139834425000999/fp0092057-1_ex9925ziv.htm)

(\*) Filed herewith.

(+) To be filed by amendment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Incorporated by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration Statement (File Nos. 333-217196
and 811-23247) filed on July 18, 2017.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Incorporated by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 4 to Registrant's Registration Statement (File Nos. 333-217196
and 811-23247) filed on September 25, 2017.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Registration Statement (File Nos. 333-227640 and 811-23247) filed on October 1,
2018. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) Incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2
(File Nos. 333-227640 and 811-23247) filed on November 15, 2019.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) Incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2
(File Nos. 333-227640 and 811-23247) filed on January 3, 2020.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) Incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2
(File Nos. 333-227640 and 811-23247) filed on December 7, 2020.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 29, 2021.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 9, 2021.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 29, 2022.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 7, 2023.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(11) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 9, 2024.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(12) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 14, 2024.

C-ii

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(13) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 26,
2025. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(14) Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2 (File Nos. 333-284466
and 811-23247) filed on January 24, 2025.

**Item 26. Marketing Arrangements**

Reference is made to Exhibit (h) to this Registration Statement to be filed by post-effective amendment.

**Item 27. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution**

The following table sets forth the estimated expenses to be incurred in connection with the offering described in this Registration Statement:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Printer/Edgar Filer | $15000 |
| Legal Counsel | $\* |
| NYSE Fee | $\* |
| SEC Fees | $\* |
| FINRA Fees | $\* |
| Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | $\* |
| Miscellaneous | $\* |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) These expenses will be determined based on the securities offered and the number of issuances and accordingly, cannot be estimated
at this time. Offering expenses associated with an offering will be reflected in the applicable prospectus supplement.

**Item 28. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with Registrant**

None

**Item 29. Number of Holders of Securities**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Title of Class** | **Number of Record Shareholders <br> as of June 6, 2025** |
| Common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share | 2 |

---

**Item 30. Indemnification**

Reference is made to Article V of the Registrant's Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of the Registrant, which provides as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>No Personal Liability of Shareholders, Trustees, etc</u>. No Shareholder of the Trust shall be subject in such capacity to any personal liability whatsoever to any Person in connection with Trust Property or the acts, obligations or affairs of the Trust. Shareholders shall have the same limitation of personal liability as is extended to stockholders of a private corporation for profit incorporated under the Delaware General Corporation Law. No Trustee or officer of the Trust shall be subject in such capacity to any personal liability whatsoever to any Person, save only liability to the Trust or its Shareholders arising from bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard for his or her duty to such Person; and, subject to the foregoing exception, all such Persons shall look solely to the Trust Property for satisfaction of claims of any nature arising in connection with the affairs of the Trust. If any Shareholder, Trustee or officer, as such, of the Trust, is made a party to any suit or proceeding to enforce any such liability, subject to the foregoing exception, he or she shall not, on account thereof, be held to any personal liability. Any repeal or modification of this Section 5.1 shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a Trustee or officer of the Trust existing at the time of such repeal or modification with respect to acts or omissions occurring prior to such repeal or modification.

C-iii

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.2 <u>Mandatory Indemnification</u> 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Trust shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to, or is involved as a witness in, any proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was a Covered Person, against expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such proceeding.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Trust shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to, or is involved as a witness in, any proceeding by or in the right of the Trust to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that such person is or was a Covered Person, against expenses actually and reasonably incurred by that person in connection with the investigation, defense or settlement of such proceeding.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary contained herein, no Covered Person shall be indemnified for any expenses, judgments, fines, amounts paid in settlement, or other liability or loss arising by reason of disabling conduct or for any proceedings by such Covered Person for which indemnification is precluded by applicable law. The termination of any proceeding by conviction, or a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or an entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, creates a rebuttable presumption that the person engaged in disabling conduct.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to any action, suit or other proceeding voluntarily prosecuted by any indemnitee as plaintiff, indemnification shall be mandatory only if the prosecution of such action, suit or other proceeding by such indemnitee (1) was authorized by a majority of the Trustees or (2) was instituted by the indemnitee to enforce his or her rights to indemnification hereunder in a case in which the indemnitee is found to be entitled to such indemnification. The rights to indemnification set forth herein shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a Trustee or officer of the Trust and shall inure to the benefit of his or her heirs, executors and personal and legal representatives. No amendment or restatement of this Declaration or repeal of any of its provisions shall limit or eliminate any of the benefits provided to any person who at any time is or was a Covered Person or otherwise entitled to indemnification hereunder in respect of any act or omission that occurred prior to such amendment, restatement or repeal.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Trust shall advance to any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to, or is involved as a witness in, any proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was a Covered Person the expenses actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the defense of such proceeding in advance of its final disposition.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Any indemnification required or permitted under this Section 5.2 (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Trust only as authorized in the specific case upon a reasonable determination, based upon a review of the facts, that the Covered Person is entitled to indemnification because (i) he or she is not liable by reason of disabling conduct, or (ii) in cases where there is no liability, he or she has not engaged in disabling conduct. Such determination shall be made by (i) the vote of a majority of a quorum of qualifying Trustees; or (ii) if there are no such Trustees, or if such Trustees so direct, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in Section 5.2I, if a determination that a Covered Person engaged in disabling conduct is made in accordance with this Section 5.2(f), no further advances of expenses shall be made, and all prior advances, and insurance premiums paid for by the Trust, if applicable, must be repaid.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; With respect to any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to, or is involved as a witness in, any proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was a Covered Person, the rights to indemnification conferred in Section 5.2(a), and with respect to any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to, or is involved as a witness in, any proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was a Trustee or officer of the Trust, the advancement of expenses conferred in Section 5.2I shall be contract rights. Any amendment, repeal, or modification of, or adoption of any provision inconsistent with, this Section 5.2 (or any provision hereof) shall not adversely affect any right to indemnification or advancement of expenses granted to any such person pursuant hereto with respect to any act or omission of such person occurring prior to the time of such amendment, repeal, modification, or adoption (regardless of whether the proceeding relating to such acts or omissions is commenced before or after the time of such amendment, repeal, modification, or adoption). Any amendment or modification of, or adoption of any provision inconsistent with, this Section 5.2 (or any provision hereof), that has the effect of positively affecting any right to indemnification or advancement of expenses granted to any such person pursuant hereto, shall not apply retroactively to any person who was not serving as a Covered Person at the time of such amendment, modification or adoption.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If (i) a claim under Section 5.2(a) with respect to any right to indemnification is not paid in full by the Trust within sixty days after a written demand has been received by the Trust or (ii) a claim under Section 5.2(b) with respect to any right to the advancement of expenses is not paid in full by the Trust within thirty days after a written demand has been received by the Trust, then the Covered Person seeking to enforce a right to indemnification or to an advancement of expenses, as the case may be, may at any time thereafter bring suit against the Trust to recover the unpaid amount of the claim.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If successful in whole or in part in any suit brought pursuant to Section 5.2(h), or in a suit brought by the Trust to recover an advancement of expenses (whether pursuant to the terms of an undertaking or otherwise), the Covered Person seeking to enforce a right to indemnification or an advancement of expenses hereunder or the Covered Person from whom the Trust sought to recover an advancement of expenses, as the case may be, shall be entitled to be paid by the Trust the reasonable expenses (including attorneys' fees) of prosecuting or defending such suit.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The rights accruing to any indemnitee under this Section 5.2 shall not exclude any other right which any person may have or hereafter acquire under this Declaration, the By-Laws of the Trust, any statute, agreement, vote of shareholders or qualifying Trustees or any other right to which he or she may be lawfully entitled. For the avoidance of doubt, to the extent the Trust enters into a written agreement with any Trustee to indemnify such Trustee, any indemnification of such Trustee by the Trust shall be governed by the terms of such written agreement, including with respect to determinations required, applicable presumptions and burden of proof with respect to such Trustee's entitlement to indemnification and/or advancement of expenses.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For purposes of this Section 5.2:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; references to "Trust" include any domestic or foreign predecessor entity of this Trust in a merger, consolidation, or other transaction in which the predecessor's existence ceased upon consummation of the transaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; the term "Covered Person" means a person who is or was a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust, or is or was serving at the request of the Trustees as a director, trustee, partner, officer, employee or agent of another foreign or domestic corporation, trust, partnership, joint venture or other enterprise;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; the term "disabling conduct" means willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or the reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of the Covered Person's office with the Trust;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; the term "expenses" includes, without limitations, attorneys' fees;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; the term "proceeding" means any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vi)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; the term "qualifying Trustee" means any Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust and is not a party to the proceeding.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>Voluntary Indemnification</u>. Subject to any limitations provided by the 1940 Act and this Declaration, the Trust shall have the power and authority to indemnify and provide for the advance payment of expenses to employees, agents and other Persons providing services to the Trust or serving in any capacity at the request of the Trust to the full extent corporations organized under the Delaware General Corporation Law may indemnify or provide for the advance payment of expenses for such Persons; provided that such indemnification has been approved by a majority of the Trustees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>No Bond Required of Trustees</u>. No Trustee shall, as such, be obligated to give any bond or other security for the performance of any of his or her duties hereunder.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>No Duty of Investigation; etc</u>. No purchaser, lender, transfer agent or other person dealing with the Trustees or with any officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall be bound to make any inquiry concerning the validity of any transaction purporting to be made by the Trustees or by said officer, employee or agent or be liable for the application of money or property paid, loaned, or delivered to or on the order of the Trustees or of said officer, employee or agent. Every obligation, contract, undertaking, instrument, certificate, Share, other security of the Trust, and every other act or thing whatsoever executed in connection with the Trust shall be conclusively taken to have been executed or done by the executors thereof only in their capacity as Trustees under this Declaration or in their capacity as officers, employees or agents of the Trust.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>Insurance</u>. The Trustees may maintain insurance for the protection of the Trust Property, its Shareholders, Trustees, officers, employees and agents in such amount as the Trustees shall deem adequate to cover possible tort liability, and such other insurance as the Trustees in their sole judgment shall deem advisable or is required by the 1940 Act.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>Reliance on Experts, etc.</u> Each Trustee and officer or employee of the Trust shall, in the performance of its duties, be fully and completely justified and protected with regard to any act or any failure to act resulting from reliance in good faith upon the books of account or other records of the Trust, upon an opinion of counsel, or upon reports made to the Trust by any of the Trust's officers or employees or by any advisor, administrator, manager, distributor, selected dealer, accountant, appraiser or other expert or consultant selected with reasonable care by the Trustees, officers or employees of the Trust, regardless of whether such counsel or expert may also be a Trustee.

Reference is made to Section 14 of the Investment Advisory Agreement, between the Registrant and the Adviser, as filed as Exhibit (g)(i) hereto.

Reference is made to Section 14 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement, among the Registrant, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, as filed as Exhibit (g)(ii) hereto.

Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

**Item 31. Business and Other Connections of the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser**

The Adviser, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Delaware, acts as investment adviser to the Registrant. The Registrant is fulfilling the requirement of this Item 31 to provide a list of the officers and directors of the Adviser, together with information as to any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature engaged in by the Adviser or those officers and directors during the past two years, by incorporating by reference the information contained in the Form ADV of the Adviser filed with the commission pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (Commission File No. 801-110653).

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The Sub-Adviser, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Delaware, acts as investment sub-adviser to the Registrant. The Registrant is fulfilling the requirement of this Item 31 to provide a list of the officers and directors of the Sub-Adviser, together with information as to any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature engaged in by the Sub-Adviser or those officers and directors during the past two years, by incorporating by reference the information contained in the Form ADV of the Sub-Adviser filed with the commission pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (Commission File No. 801-71998).

**Item 32. Location of Accounts and Records**

The accounts and records of the Registrant are maintained in part at the offices of the Trust at 321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430, Chicago, Illinois 60654, in part at the offices of the Adviser at 321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430, Chicago, Illinois 60654, in part at the offices of the Sub-Adviser at 250 Park Avenue, 15<sup>th</sup> Floor, New York, New York 10177, in part at the offices of the Administrator at 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, CO 80203, in part at the offices of the Custodian, at Two Liberty Place, 50 S. 16th St., Suite 2000, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, and in part at the offices of the Transfer Agent at 430 W. 7<sup>th</sup> Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105-1594.

**Item 33. Management Services**

Not applicable.

**Item 34. Undertakings**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Not applicable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Not applicable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Registrant undertakes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) to file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to the registration statement:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post- effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the "Calculation of Filing Fee Tables" in the effective registration statement; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement.

Provided, however, that paragraphs a(1), a(2), and a(3) of this section do not apply if the registration statement is filed pursuant to General Instruction A.2 of this Form and the information required to be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in reports filed with or furnished to the Commission by the Registrant pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act that are incorporated by reference into the registration statement, or is contained in a form of prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) that is part of the registration statement.

C-vii

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) that, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to
be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of those securities at that time shall be
deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) to remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the
termination of the offering;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) that, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act to any purchaser:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) if the Registrant is relying on Rule 430B

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(A)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Each prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) shall be deemed to be part of the registration statement as of the date the filed prospectus was deemed part of and included in the registration statement; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(B)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Each prospectus required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2), (b)(5), or (b)(7) as part of a registration statement in reliance on Rule 430B relating to an offering made pursuant to Rule 415(a)(1)(i), (x), or (xi) for the purpose of providing the information required by Section 10(a) of the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the earlier of the date such form of prospectus is first used after effectiveness or the date of the first contract of sale of securities in the offering described in the prospectus. As provided in Rule 430B, for liability purposes of the issuer and any person that is at that date an underwriter, such date shall be deemed to be a new effective date of the registration statement relating to the securities in the registration statement to which that prospectus relates, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such effective date, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such effective date; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; if the Registrant is subject to Rule 430C: each prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act as part of a registration statement relating to an offering, other than registration statements relying on Rule 430B or other than prospectuses filed in reliance on Rule 430A, shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the date it is first used after effectiveness. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such first use, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such date of first use.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) that for the purpose of determining liability of the Registrant under the Securities Act to any purchaser in the initial distribution
of securities:

C-viii

The undersigned Registrant undertakes that in a primary offering of securities of the undersigned Registrant pursuant to this registration statement, regardless of the underwriting method used to sell the securities to the purchaser, if the securities are offered or sold to such purchaser by means of any of the following communications, the undersigned Registrant will be a seller to the purchaser and will be considered to offer or sell such securities to the purchaser:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; any preliminary prospectus or prospectus of the undersigned Registrant relating to the offering required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424 under the Securities Act;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; free writing prospectus relating to the offering prepared by or on behalf of the undersigned Registrant or used or referred to by the undersigned Registrants;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; the portion of any other free writing prospectus or advertisement pursuant to Rule 482 under the Securities Act relating to the offering containing material information about the undersigned Registrant or its securities provided by or on behalf of the undersigned Registrant; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; any other communication that is an offer in the offering made by the undersigned Registrant to the purchaser.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. Registrant undertakes that, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted
from the form of prospectus filed as part of the Registration Statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in the form of prospectus
filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) will be deemed to be a part of the Registration Statement as of the time it was
declared effective.

Registrant undertakes that, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus will be deemed to be a new Registration Statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time will be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5. Registrant undertakes that, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the Registrant's
annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that is incorporated by reference
into the registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6. Not applicable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7. Registrant undertakes to send by first class mail or other means designed to ensure equally prompt delivery, within two business days
of receipt of a written or oral request, any Statement of Additional Information constituting Part B of this Registration Statement.

C-ix

**SIGNATURES**

As required by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed on behalf of the Registrant, in the City of Chicago, State of Illinois, on the 16th day of June, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| XAI OCTAGON FLOATING RATE & | XAI OCTAGON FLOATING RATE & |
| ALTERNATIVE INCOME TRUST | ALTERNATIVE INCOME TRUST |
| By: | /s/ Benjamin D. McCulloch |
|  | Benjamin D. McCulloch |
|  | Chief Legal Officer and Secretary |

---

As required by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities set forth below on the 16th day of June, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Principal Executive Officer: |  |
| /s/ Theodore J. Brombach | Trustee, President and Chief Executive Officer |
| Theodore J. Brombach |  |
| Principal Financial Officer: |  |
| /s/ Derek Mullins | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer |
| Derek Mullins |  |
| Trustees: |  |
| \* | Trustee |
| Danielle Cupps |  |
| \* | Trustee |
| Gregory G. Dingens |  |
| \* | Trustee |
| Philip G. Franklin |  |
| \* | Trustee |
| Scott Craven Jones |  |
| \* | Trustee |
| William T. Meyers |  |

---

\* Signed by Benjamin McCulloch, Esq., an attorney-in-fact, pursuant to a power of attorney incorporated herein by reference.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| By: | /s/ Benjamin D. McCulloch |
|  | Benjamin D. McCulloch, Esq. |
|  | Attorney-In-Fact |
|  | June 16, 2025 |

---

C-x

**Exhibit List**

[(l)](fp0093829-1_ex9925l.htm) [Opinion and Consent of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP](fp0093829-1_ex9925l.htm)

[(n)](fp0093829-1_ex9925n.htm) [Consent of Cohen & Company, Ltd.](fp0093829-1_ex9925n.htm)

[(s)](fp0093829-1_ex9925s.htm) [Calculation of Filing Fee Exhibit](fp0093829-1_ex9925s.htm)

## Exhibit 99.25

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom llp

320 south canal street

Chicago, Illinois 60606-5707

TEL: (312) 407-0700

FAX: (312) 407-0411

www.skadden.com

June 13, 2025 FIRM/AFFILIATE OFFICES ----------- BOSTON HOUSTON LOS ANGELES<br> NEW YORK PALO ALTO WASHINGTON, D.C. WILMINGTON ----------- BEIJING BRUSSELS FRANKFURT HONG KONG LONDON MUNICH PARIS SÃO PAULO SEOUL SHANGHAI SINGAPORE TOKYO TORONTO

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust

321 North Clark Street, Suite 2430

Chicago, Illinois 60654

Re: <u>XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust — <br> Registration Statement on Form N-2</u>

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We have acted as special United States counsel to XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust, a statutory trust (the "Trust") created under the Delaware Statutory Trust Act (the "DSTA"), in connection with the registration statement on Form N-2 (the "Registration Statement") to be filed on the date hereof by the Trust with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"). The Registration Statement relates to the issuance and sale by the Trust from time to time, pursuant to Rule 415 of the General Rules and Regulations of the Commission promulgated under the Securities Act (the "Rules and Regulations"), of (i) common shares of beneficial interest of the Trust, par value $0.01 per share (the "Common Shares"); (ii) preferred shares of the Trust, par value $0.01 per share (the "Preferred Shares"), which may be issued in one or more series and (iii) subscription rights to purchase Common Shares and/or Preferred Shares (the "Subscription Rights"), which may be issued under one or more subscription rights certificates (each, a "Subscription Rights Certificate") and/or pursuant to one or more subscription rights agreements (each, a "Subscription Rights Agreement") proposed to be entered into by the Trust and one or more subscription agents to be named therein. The Common Shares, Preferred Shares and Subscription Rights offered pursuant to the Registration Statement are collectively referred to herein as the "Securities."

This opinion letter is being furnished in accordance with the requirements of sub-paragraph (l) of item 25.2 of part C of Form N-2 under the Securities Act and the 1940 Act.

In rendering the opinions stated herein, we have examined and relied upon the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the notification of registration on Form N-8A (File No. 811-23247) of the Trust, filed with the Commission under the 1940 Act on April 7, 2017;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) the Registration Statement;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) an executed copy of a certificate of Benjamin D. McCulloch, Secretary of the Trust, dated the date hereof (the "Secretary's Certificate");

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust <br> June 13, 2025 <br> Page 2

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) a copy of the Trust's Certificate of Trust (the "Certificate of Trust"), certified by the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware as of June 13, 2025, and certified pursuant to the Secretary's Certificate;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) a copy of the Trust's Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, by the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board of Trustees"), dated July 13, 2017, as amended by the Certificate of Amendment to the Trust's Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated August 31, 2017, by the Board of Trustees, and by the Second Amendment to the Trust's Second Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated February 1, 2024, by the Board of Trustees and as supplemented by the Statement of Preferences, dated March 23, 2021, as amended on September 8, 2021, June 28, 2022 and October 6, 2023, establishing and fixing the rights and preferences of the term preferred shares of the Trust, certified pursuant to the Secretary's Certificate;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) a copy of the Trust's Amended and Restated By-Laws, as amended and in effect as of the date hereof, certified pursuant to the Secretary's Certificate;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) a copy of certain resolutions of the Board of Trustees adopted on August 13, 2024, certified pursuant to the Secretary's Certificate; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) a copy of a certificate, dated the date hereof, from the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware with respect to the Trust's existence and good standing in the State of Delaware.

We have also examined originals or copies, certified or otherwise identified to our satisfaction, of such records of the Trust and such agreements, certificates and receipts of public officials, certificates of officers or other representatives of the Trust and others, and such other documents as we have deemed necessary or appropriate as a basis for the opinions stated below.

In our examination, we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures, including electronic signatures, the legal capacity and competency of all natural persons, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to us as facsimile, electronic, certified or photocopied copies, and the authenticity of the originals of such copies. As to any facts relevant to the opinions stated herein that we did not independently establish or verify, we have relied upon statements and representations of officers and other representatives of the Trust and others and of public officials, including the facts and conclusions set forth in the Secretary's Certificate.

We do not express any opinion with respect to the laws of any jurisdiction other than the laws of the State of Delaware, including the DSTA (the "Opined-on Law"). The Securities may be issued from time to time on a delayed or continuous basis, and this opinion is limited to the laws, including the rules and regulations, as in effect on the date hereof, which laws are subject to change with possible retroactive effect.

As used herein, (a) "Transaction Documents" means any Subscription Rights Certificates and Subscription Rights Agreements and any applicable underwriting or purchase agreements and (ii) "Organizational Documents" means those documents listed in paragraphs (d) through (f) above.

The opinions stated in paragraphs 1 through 4 below presume that all of the following (collectively, the "general conditions") shall have occurred prior to the issuance of the Securities referred to therein: (i) the Registration Statement, as finally amended (including all necessary pre-effective and post-effective amendments), has become effective under the Securities Act; (ii) an appropriate prospectus supplement with respect to such Securities has been prepared, delivered and filed in compliance with the Securities Act and the applicable Rules and Regulations; (iii) the applicable Transaction Documents shall have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Trust and the other parties thereto, including, if such Securities are to be sold or otherwise distributed pursuant to a firm commitment underwritten offering, the underwriting agreement or purchase agreement with respect thereto; (iv) the Board of Trustees, including any duly authorized committee thereof, shall have taken all necessary statutory trust action to approve the issuance and sale of such Securities and related matters and appropriate officers of the Trust have taken all related action as directed by or under the direction of the Board of Trustees; and (v) the terms of the applicable Transaction Documents and the issuance and sale of such Securities have been duly established in conformity with the Organizational Documents so as not to violate any applicable law or the Organizational Documents, each as then in effect, or result in a default under or breach of any agreement or instrument binding upon the Trust, and so as to comply with any requirement or restriction imposed by any court or governmental body having jurisdiction over the Trust.

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust <br> June 13, 2025 <br> Page 3

Based upon the foregoing and subject to the qualifications and assumptions stated herein, we are of the opinion that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. With respect to any Common Shares offered by the Trust (the "Offered Common Shares"), when (a) the general conditions shall have been satisfied and (b) the Offered Common Shares are registered in the Trust's share registry and delivered upon payment of the agreed-upon consideration therefor, the Offered Common Shares, when issued and sold or otherwise distributed in accordance with the provisions of the applicable Transaction Document, will be duly authorized by all requisite statutory trust action on the part of the Trust under the DSTA and validly issued and fully paid and, under the DSTA, the holders of the Offered Common Shares will have no obligation to make further payments for the purchase of such Offered Common Shares or contributions to the Trust solely by reason of their ownership of such Offered Common Shares, except for their obligation to repay any funds wrongfully distributed to them, provided that the consideration thereof is not less than $0.01 per Common Share.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. With respect to any Common Subscription Rights offered by the Trust (the "Offered Common Subscription Rights"), when (a) the general conditions shall have been satisfied, (b) the Common Shares relating to such Offered Common Subscription Rights have been duly authorized for issuance by the Trust and (c) the Common Share Subscription Rights Certificates have been duly executed, delivered and countersigned in accordance with the provisions of the applicable Transaction Document, the Offered Common Subscription Rights, when issued and sold or otherwise distributed in accordance with the provisions of the applicable Transaction Document upon payment of the agreed-upon consideration therefor, will constitute valid and binding obligations of the Trust, enforceable against the Trust in accordance with their respective terms under the laws of the State of Delaware.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. With respect to the shares of any series of Preferred Shares offered by the Trust (the "Offered Preferred Shares"), when (a) the general conditions shall have been satisfied, (b) the Board of Trustees, or any duly authorized committee thereof, has duly adopted a Statement of Preferences for the Offered Preferred Shares in accordance with the DSTA and the Organizational Documents and (c) the Offered Preferred Shares are registered in the Trust's share registry and delivered upon payment of the agreed-upon consideration therefor, the Offered Preferred Shares, when issued and sold or otherwise distributed in accordance with the provisions of the applicable Transaction Document, will be duly authorized by all requisite statutory trust action on the part of the Trust under the DSTA and validly issued and fully paid and, under the DSTA, the holders of the Offered Preferred Shares will have no obligation to make further payments for the purchase of such Offered Preferred Shares or contributions to the Trust solely by reason of their ownership of such Offered Preferred Shares, except for their obligation to repay any funds wrongfully distributed to them, provided that the consideration thereof is not less than $0.01 per Preferred Share.

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust <br> June 13, 2025 <br> Page 4

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. With respect to any Preferred Subscription Rights offered by the Trust (the "Offered Preferred Subscription Rights"), when (a) the general conditions shall have been satisfied, (b) the Preferred Shares relating to such Offered Preferred Subscription Rights have been duly authorized for issuance by the Trust and (c) the Preferred Share Subscription Rights Certificates have been duly executed, delivered and countersigned in accordance with the provisions of the applicable Transaction Document, the Offered Preferred Subscription Rights, when issued and sold or otherwise distributed in accordance with the provisions of the applicable Transaction Document upon payment of the agreed-upon consideration therefor, will constitute valid and binding obligations of the Trust, enforceable against the Trust in accordance with their respective terms under the laws of the State of Delaware.

The opinions stated herein are subject to the following assumptions and qualifications:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) we do not express any opinion with respect to the effect on the opinions stated herein of any bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent transfer, preference and other similar laws or governmental orders affecting creditors' rights generally, and the opinions stated herein are limited by such laws and governmental orders and by general principles of equity (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in equity or at law);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) we do not express any opinion with respect to the effect on the opinions stated herein of (i) the compliance or non-compliance of any party to any of the Transaction Documents with any laws, rules or regulations applicable to such party or (ii) the legal status or legal capacity of any party to any of the Transaction Documents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) we do not express any opinion with respect to any law, rule or regulation that is applicable to any party to any of the Transaction Documents or the transactions contemplated thereby solely because such law, rule or regulation is part of a regulatory regime applicable to any such party or any of its affiliates as a result of the specific assets or business operations of such party or such affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) except to the extent expressly stated in the opinions contained herein, we have assumed that each of the Transaction Documents constitutes the valid and binding obligation of each party to such Transaction Document, enforceable against such party in accordance with its terms;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) we do not express any opinion with respect to the enforceability of any provision contained in any Transaction Document relating to any indemnification, contribution, non-reliance, exculpation, release, limitation or exclusion of remedies, waiver or other provisions having similar effect that may be contrary to public policy or violative of federal or state securities laws, rules or regulations, or to the extent any such provision purports to, or has the effect of, waiving or altering any statute of limitations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) we do not express any opinion with respect to the enforceability of any provision of any Transaction Document to the extent that such section purports to bind the Trust to the exclusive jurisdiction of any particular federal court or courts;

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust <br> June 13, 2025 <br> Page 5

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) we call to your attention that irrespective of the agreement of the parties to any Transaction Document, a court may decline to hear a case on grounds of forum non conveniens or other doctrine limiting the availability of such court as a forum for resolution of disputes; in addition, we call to your attention that we do not express any opinion with respect to the subject matter jurisdiction of the federal courts of the United States of America in any action arising out of or relating to any Transaction Document;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) the opinions stated herein are limited to the agreements and documents specifically identified in the opinions contained herein (the "Specified Documents") without regard to any agreement or other document referenced in any Specified Document (including agreements or other documents incorporated by reference or attached or annexed thereto) and without regard to any other agreement or document relating to any Specified Document that is not a Transaction Document;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) this opinion letter shall be interpreted in accordance with customary practice of United States lawyers who regularly give opinions in transactions of this type;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) we have assumed that the laws of the State of Delaware will be chosen to govern the Transaction Documents, and that such choice is and will be a valid and legal provision;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) to the extent that any opinion relates to the enforceability of the choice of Delaware law and choice of Delaware forum provisions contained in any Transaction Document, the opinions stated herein are rendered solely in reliance upon Delaware Code title 6, section 2708 and are subject to the qualification that such enforceability may be subject to the exceptions and limitations in Section 2708 as well as by principles of public policy, comity and constitutionality; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(l) we have assumed that any agent of service will have accepted appointment as agent to receive service of process and call to your attention that we do not express any opinion if and to the extent such agent shall resign such appointment. Further, we do not express any opinion with respect to the irrevocability of the designation of such agent to receive service of process.

In addition, in rendering the foregoing opinions we have also assumed that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the Organizational Documents are the only governing instruments, as defined under the DSTA, of the Trust; the Trust has, and since the time of its formation has had, at least one validly admitted and existing trustee of the Trust satisfying the requirements of the DSTA and (i) no procedures have been instituted for and no other event has occurred, including, without limitation, any action taken by the Trust or its Board of Trustees or shareholders, as applicable, that would result in the liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of the Trust, (ii) no event has occurred that has adversely affected the good standing of the Trust under the laws of its jurisdiction of formation, and the Trust has taken all actions required by the laws of its jurisdiction of formation to maintain such good standing and (iii) no grounds exist for the revocation or forfeiture of the Trust's Certificate of Trust;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) the Trust (i) is duly formed, and is validly existing and in good standing, (ii) has requisite legal status and legal capacity under the laws of jurisdiction of its formation and (iii) has complied and will comply with all aspects of the laws of the jurisdiction of its formation in connection with the transactions contemplated by, and the performance of its obligations under, the Transaction Documents;

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust <br> June 13, 2025 <br> Page 6

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) except to the extent expressly stated in the opinions contained herein, the Trust has the statutory trust power and authority to execute, deliver and perform all its obligations under each of the Transaction Documents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) neither the execution and delivery by the Trust of the Transaction Documents nor the performance by the Trust of its obligations thereunder, including the issuance and sale of the applicable Securities: (i) conflicts or will conflict with the Organizational Documents, (ii) constitutes or will constitute a violation of, or a default under, any lease, indenture, agreement or other instrument to which the Trust or its property is subject, (iii) contravenes or will contravene any order or decree of any governmental authority to which the Trust or its property is subject, or (iv) violates or will violate any law, rule or regulation to which the Trust or its property is subject (except that we do not make the assumption set forth in this clause (iv) with respect to the Opined-on Law); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) neither the execution and delivery by the Trust of the Transaction Documents nor the performance by the Trust of its obligations thereunder, including the issuance and sale of the applicable Securities, requires or will require the consent, approval, licensing or authorization of, or any filing, recording or registration with, any governmental authority under any law, rule or regulation of any jurisdiction.

\* \* \* \* \*

XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust <br> June 13, 2025 <br> Page 7

We hereby consent to the reference to our firm under the heading "Legal Matters" in the prospectus forming part of the Registration Statement. We also hereby consent to the filing of this opinion with the Commission as an exhibit to the Registration Statement. In giving this consent, we do not thereby admit that we are within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act or the Rules and Regulations. This opinion letter is expressed as of the date hereof unless otherwise expressly stated, and we disclaim any undertaking to advise you of any subsequent changes in the facts stated or assumed herein or of any subsequent changes in applicable laws.

---

| |
|:---|
| Very truly yours, |
| /s/ Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP |

---

## Exhibit 99.25

![](image_001.jpg)

**CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM**

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form N-2 of our report dated November 27, 2024, relating to the financial statements and financial highlights of XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust, which are included in Form N-CSR for the year ended September 30, 2024, and to the references to our firm under the headings "Financial Highlights" and "Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" in the Prospectus and "General Information" and "Financial Statements" in the Statement of Additional Information.

![](image_002.jpg)

COHEN & COMPANY, LTD.

Cleveland, Ohio

June 13, 2025

![](image_003.jpg)

## Ex-Filing

**Exhibit (s)**

**Calculation of Filing Fee Tables** 

**FORM N-2** 

(Form Type)

**XAI OCTAGON FLOATING RATE & ALTERNATIVE INCOME TERM TRUST**

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

<u>Table 1: Newly Registered and Carry Forward Securities</u>

---

| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Security<br> Type** | **Security<br> Class<br> Title** | **Fee<br> Calculation<br> or Carry<br> Forward<br> Rule** | **Amount<br> Registered** | **Proposed<br> Maximum<br> Offering<br> Price Per<br> Unit** | **Maximum<br> Aggregate<br> Offering Price** | **Fee<br> Rate** | **Amount of<br> Registration<br> Fee** | **Carry<br> Forward<br> Form<br> Type** | **Carry<br> Forward<br> File<br> Number** | **Carry<br> Forward<br> Initial<br> effective<br> date** | **Filing Fee<br> Previously<br> Paid In<br> Connection<br> with<br> Unsold<br> Securities<br> to be<br> Carried<br> Forward** |
| Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities | Newly Registered Securities |
| Fees to be Paid | Equity | Common Shares(3) | Rule 457(o) |  |  | (1) |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Fees to be Paid | Equity | Preferred Shares(3) | Rule 457(o) |  |  | (1) |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Fees to be Paid | Other | Subscription Rights(4) | Rule 457(o) |  |  | (1) |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Fees to be Paid | Other | Unallocated (Universal) Shelf | Rule 457(o) |  |  | $300000000(1)(5) | 0.00015310 | $45930.00 |  |  |  |  |
| Fees Previously Paid | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |  |  |  |  |
| Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities | Carry Forward Securities |
| Carry Forward Securities | Equity | Common Shares(3) | Rule 415(a)(6) |  |  | (2) |  |  | N-2 | 333-261521 | January 24, 2022 | (1) |
| Carry Forward Securities | Equity | Preferred Shares(3) | Rule 415(a)(6) |  |  | (2) |  |  | N-2 | 333-261521 | January 24, 2022 | (1) |
| Carry Forward Securities | Other | Subscription Rights(4) | Rule 415(a)(6) |  |  | (2) |  |  | N-2 | 333-261521 | January 24, 2022 | (1) |
| Carry Forward Securities | Other | Unallocated (Universal) Shelf | Rule 415(a)(6) |  |  | $77747000(2)(5) |  |  | N-2 | 333-261521 | January 24, 2022 | $7207.15 |
| Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts |  | $377747000 |  | -- |  |  |  |  |
| Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid |  |  |  | $45930(5) |  |  |  |  |
| Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets |  |  |  | -- |  |  |  |  |
| Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due |  |  |  | $0 |  |  |  |  |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) There is being registered hereunder
an indeterminate number of common shares and preferred shares as may be sold, from time to time. Amount estimated pursuant to Rule 457(o)
under the Securities Act of 1933, solely for the purpose of determining the registration fee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Included as part of Unallocated
(Universal) Shelf. Pursuant to Rule 415(a)(6) under the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant is carrying forward $77,747,000 aggregate principal
offering price of unsold securities (the "Unsold Securities") that were previously registered for sale under a Registration
Statement on Form N-2 (File No. 333-261251) initially filed on December 7, 2021, as amended on January 21, 2022, declared effective on
January 24, 2024 (the "Prior Registration Statement"). The Registrant previously paid filing fees in the aggregate of $27,810.00 relating to the securities registered on the Prior Registration Statement. Pursuant to Rule 415(a)(6) under the Securities Act, the
filing fees previously paid with respect to the Unsold Securities will continue to be applied to such Unsold Securities. Pursuant to
Rule 415(a)(6) under the Securities Act, the offering of Unsold Securities under the Prior Registration Statement will be deemed terminated
as of the date of effectiveness of this Registration Statement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) There is being registered hereunder
an indeterminate number of common shares and preferred shares as may be sold, from time to time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) There is being registered hereunder
an indeterminate number of subscription rights as may be sold, from time to time, representing rights to purchase common shares and/or
preferred shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) A filing fee of $45,930.00 was previously
paid in connection with the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2 (File Nos. 333-284466 and 811-23247) filed on January
24, 2025.