# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001503290
**File Stem:** 0001104659-25-073112
**Filing Date:** 2025-8
**Character Count:** 489698
**Document Hash:** 96e50b21ae9f5b83a5b15558e79b492e
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001104659-25-073112.hdr.sgml**: 20250801

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001104659-25-073112

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 424B5

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 36

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20250801

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20250801

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001503290

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1031

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 424B5
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-277607
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251176248

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1900 MARKET STREET
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 200
- **CITY:** PHILADELPHIA
- **STATE:** PA
- **ZIP:** 19103
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 215-405-5700

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 1900 MARKET STREET
- **STREET 2:** SUITE 200
- **CITY:** PHILADELPHIA
- **STATE:** PA
- **ZIP:** 19103

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** Aberdeen Income Credit Strategies Fund
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20171201

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** Avenue Income Credit Strategies Fund
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 20101012

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund - 1503290 - 2025

Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(5)

Registration Statement No. 333-277607

**PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT (to Prospectus dated May 30, 2024)**

**Up to $75,000,000**

**abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund**

**Common Shares**

abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund (the "Fund") has entered into a distribution agreement, dated August 1, 2025 (the "Distribution Agreement"), with ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the "Distributor"), relating to the Fund's common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share ("Common Shares"), offered by this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. In accordance with the terms of the Distribution Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell its Common Shares having an aggregate offering price of up to $75,000,000 from time to time through the Distributor for the offer and sales of the Common Shares. Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Fund may not sell any Common Shares at a price below the current net asset value ("NAV") of such common shares, exclusive of any distributing commission or discount.

***The Fund****.* The Fund is a diversified, closed-end management investment company.

***Investment Objectives****.* The Fund's primary investment objective is to seek a high level of current income with a secondary objective of capital appreciation.

***Principal Investment Strategy; Leverage****.* Depending on current market conditions and the Fund's outlook over time, the Fund seeks to achieve its investment objectives by opportunistically investing primarily in loan and debt instruments (and loan-related or debt-related instruments, including repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements and derivative instruments) of issuers that operate in a variety of industries and geographic regions. The Fund expects to emphasize high current income, with a secondary emphasis on capital appreciation, by investing generally in senior secured floating rate and fixed rate loans ("Senior Loans") and in second lien or other subordinated loans or debt instruments, including non-stressed and stressed credit obligations, and related derivatives. Under normal market conditions, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its "Managed Assets" in any combination of the following credit obligations and related instruments: (i) Senior Loans (including those that, at the time of investment, are rated below investment grade by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (a "NRSRO") or are unrated but deemed by abrdn Investments Limited (the "Adviser") or abrdn Inc. to be of comparable quality; these types of below investment grade instruments are commonly known as "junk" securities and are regarded as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal); (ii) second lien or other subordinated or unsecured floating rate and fixed rate loans or debt (including those that, at the time of investment, could be considered "junk" securities as described above); (iii) other debt obligations, including high-yield, high-risk obligations (i.e., instruments that are commonly known as "junk" securities as described above) and "covenant lite" loans; (iv) structured products, including collateralized debt and loan obligations (collectively, "structured products") that provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; (v) swaps and other derivative instruments (including credit default, total return, index and interest rate swaps, options, forward contracts, futures contracts and options on futures contracts) that provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; and (vi) short-term debt securities such as U.S. government securities, commercial paper and other money market instruments and cash equivalents (including shares of money market funds). Certain types of structured products, swaps and other derivative instruments provide short exposure to other credit obligations because the value of such instruments is inversely related to the value of one or more other credit obligations. "Managed Assets" are the total assets of the Fund (including any assets attributable to money borrowed for investment purposes, including proceeds from (and assets subject to) reverse repurchase agreements, any credit facility and any issuance of preferred shares ("Preferred Shares") or notes) minus the sum of the Fund's accrued liabilities (other than Fund liabilities incurred for the purpose of leverage). The Fund is permitted to obtain leverage using any form or combination of financial leverage instruments, including reverse repurchase agreements, credit facilities such as bank loans or commercial paper, and the issuance of Preferred Shares or notes. The Fund is permitted to have financial leverage representing up to the maximum extent permitted by the 1940 Act, which is up to 33 1/3% of the Fund's total assets (including the assets subject to, and obtained with the proceeds of, such leverage).

***NYSE Listing.*** The Fund's currently outstanding Common Shares are, and the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus Supplement will be, subject to notice of issuance, listed on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") under the symbol "ACP." As of July 21, 2025, the last reported sale price for the Fund's Common Shares on the NYSE was $5.94 per Common Share, and the net asset value of the Common Shares was $6.14 per Common Share, representing a discount to net asset value of 3.26%.

i

Sales of the Fund's Common Shares, if any, under this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus may be made in negotiated transactions or transactions that are deemed to be "at the market" as defined in Rule 415 under the 1933 Act, including sales made directly on the NYSE or sales made to or through a market maker other than on an exchange. The minimum price on any day at which Common Shares may be sold will not be less than the Minimum Price, which will be equal to the then current NAV per Common Share plus the per Common Share amount of the commission to be paid to the Distributor (the "Minimum Price"). The Fund and the Distributor will determine whether any sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day. The Fund and the Distributor, however, will not authorize sales of Common Shares if the price per Common Share is less than the Minimum Price. The Fund and the Distributor may elect not to authorize sales of Common Shares on a particular day even if the price per Common Share is equal to or greater than the Minimum Price or may only authorize a fixed number of Common Shares to be sold on any particular day. The Fund and the Distributor will have full discretion regarding whether sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day and, if so, in what amounts.

The Distributor may enter into sub-placement agent agreements with one or more selected dealers. The Distributor has entered into a sub-placement agent agreement, dated August 1, 2025 (the "Sub-Placement Agent Agreement"), with UBS Securities LLC (the "Sub-Placement Agent") relating to the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. In accordance with the terms of the Sub-Placement Agent Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell Common Shares from time to time through the Sub-Placement Agent as sub-placement agent for the offer and sale of Common Shares. The Fund will compensate the Distributor with respect to sales of Common Shares at a commission rate of 1.00% of the gross proceeds of the sale of Common Shares. Out of this commission, the Distributor will compensate the Sub-Placement Agent at a rate of up to 0.80% of the gross sales proceeds of the sale of the Common Shares sold by the Sub-Placement Agent.

**Investing in the Fund's Common Shares involves certain risks. You could lose some or all of your investment. See "Risk factors" on page 20 of the accompanying Prospectus.**

**Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this Prospectus Supplement or the accompanying Prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.**

This Prospectus Supplement is dated August 1, 2025.

ii

You should read this Prospectus Supplement, the accompanying Prospectus and the documents incorporated herein or therein by reference, which contain important information about the Fund that you should know before deciding whether to invest, and retain them for future reference. A Statement of Additional Information, dated May 30, 2024 (the "SAI"), containing additional information about the Fund, has been filed with the SEC and is incorporated by reference in its entirety into the accompanying Prospectus. This Prospectus Supplement, the accompanying Prospectus and the SAI are part of a "shelf" Registration Statement that the Fund filed with the SEC. This Prospectus Supplement describes the specific details regarding this offering, including the method of distribution. If information in this Prospectus Supplement is inconsistent with the accompanying Prospectus or the SAI, you should rely on this Prospectus Supplement. You may request free copies of the SAI, annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders and other information about the Fund, and make shareholder inquiries, by calling Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465 or by writing to the Fund at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, or you may obtain a copy (and other information regarding the Fund) from the SEC's website (www.sec.gov). Free copies of the Fund's Prospectus, SAI, reports and any incorporated information will also be available from the Fund's website at <u>https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds</u>. Information contained on the Fund's website is not considered to be a part of, nor incorporated by reference in, this Prospectus Supplement or the accompanying Prospectus.

The Fund's Common Shares 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.

This Prospectus Supplement, the accompanying Prospectus and the SAI contain (or will contain) or incorporate (or will incorporate) by reference "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements can be identified by the words "may," "will," "intend," "expect," "estimate," "continue," "plan," "anticipate," and similar terms with the negative of such terms. By their nature, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Several factors that could materially affect the Fund's actual results are the performance of the portfolio of securities the Fund holds, the price at which the Fund's Common Shares trade in the public markets and other factors discussed in this Prospectus Supplement, the accompanying Prospectus and the SAI, and in the Fund's periodic filings with the SEC.

Although the Fund believes that the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed in the Fund's forward-looking statements. 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 "Risk Factors" section of the accompanying Prospectus. All forward-looking statements contained in this Prospectus Supplement, the accompanying Prospectus or in the SAI are made as of the date of this Prospectus Supplement, the accompanying Prospectus or SAI, as the case may be. Except for ongoing obligations under the federal securities laws, the Fund does not intend and is not obligated, to update any forward-looking statement.

You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. The Fund has not and the underwriters have 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 Fund 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 Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date of this Prospectus Supplement. The Fund's business, financial condition and results of operations may have changed since that date. The Fund will amend this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus if, during the period that this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus is required to be delivered, there are any subsequent material changes.

Capitalized terms used herein that are not otherwise defined shall have the meanings assigned to them in the accompanying Prospectus.

iii

 **TABLE OF CONTENTS**

**<u>Page</u>**

**Prospectus Supplement**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Prospectus Supplement summary | S-1 |
| Summary of Fund expenses | S-2 |
| Capitalization | S-4 |
| Use of proceeds | S-4 |
| Market and net asset value information | S-4 |
| Plan of distribution | S-5 |
| Legal matters | S-6 |
| Incorporation by reference | S-6 |
| Additional information | S-6 |

---

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Prospectus** |  |
| About this Prospectus | 1 |
| Where you can find more information | 1 |
| Incorporation by reference | 2 |
| Summary of Fund expenses | 2 |
| The Fund at a glance | 4 |
| Financial highlights | 12 |
| Senior securities | 15 |
| The Fund | 15 |
| Use of proceeds | 16 |
| Description of Common Shares | 16 |
| Investment objectives and principal investment strategy | 16 |
| Risk factors | 20 |
| Management of the Fund | 20 |
| Legal proceedings | 22 |
| Net asset value of Common Shares | 22 |
| Distributions | 22 |
| Tax matters | 22 |
| Closed-end fund structure | 25 |
| Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan | 25 |
| Description of capital structure | 26 |
| Plan of distribution | 35 |
| Custodian, dividend paying agent, transfer agent and registrar | 37 |
| Legal opinions | 37 |
| Independent registered public accounting firm | 37 |
| Additional information | 37 |

---

**PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT SUMMARY**

*This is only a summary of information contained elsewhere in this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. This summary does not contain all the information that you should consider before investing in the Fund's Common Shares. You should carefully read the more detailed information contained in this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus and the Statement of Additional Information (the "SAI"), each dated May 30, 2024.* 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **The Fund** | abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund (the "Fund" or "we") is a diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). The Fund was organized as a statutory trust under the laws of the State of Delaware on October 12, 2010. |
| **Listing and Symbol** | The Fund's currently outstanding common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share ("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 (the "NYSE") under the symbol "ACP." As of July 21, 2025, the last reported sale price for the Fund's Common Shares on the NYSE was $5.94 per Common Share, and the net asset value of the Fund's Common Shares was $6.14 per Common Share, representing a discount to net asset value of 3.26%. |
| **The Offering** | The Fund has entered into a distribution agreement, dated August 1, 2025 (the "Distribution Agreement"), with ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the "Distributor"), pursuant to which the Fund may offer and sell its Common Shares having an aggregate offering price of up to $75,000,000 from time to time through the Distributor, in transactions that are deemed to be "at the market" as defined in Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The minimum price on any day at which Common Shares may be sold will not be less than the then current net asset value ("NAV") per Common Share plus the per Common Share amount of the commission to be paid to the Distributor (the "Minimum Price"). The Fund and the Distributor will determine whether any sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day. The Fund and the Distributor, however, will not authorize sales of Common Shares if the price per Common Share is less than the Minimum Price. The Fund and the Distributor may elect not to authorize sales of Common Shares on a particular day even if the price per Common Share is equal to or greater than the Minimum Price, or may only authorize a fixed number of Common Shares to be sold on any particular day. The Fund and the Distributor will have full discretion regarding whether sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day and, if so, in what amounts.<br>The Distributor may enter into sub-placement agent agreements with one or more selected dealers. The Distributor has entered into a sub-placement agent agreement, dated August 1, 2025 (the "Sub-Placement Agent Agreement"), with UBS Securities LLC (the "Sub-Placement Agent") relating to the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. In accordance with the terms of the Sub-Placement Agent Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell its Common Shares from time to time through the Sub-Placement Agent as sub-placement agent for the offer and sale of its Common Shares. The Fund will compensate the Distributor with respect to sales of Common Shares at a commission rate of 1.00% of the gross proceeds of the sale of Common Shares. Out of this commission, the Distributor will compensate the Sub-Placement Agent at a rate of up to 0.80% of the gross sales proceeds of the sale of the Common Shares sold by the Sub-Placement Agent. |
| **Risks** | See "Risk factors" beginning on page 20 of the accompanying Prospectus for a discussion of factors you should consider carefully before deciding to invest in the Fund's Common Shares. |
| **Use of Proceeds** | The Fund intends to invest the net proceeds of the offering in accordance with its investment objectives and policies as stated in the accompanying Prospectus under the heading "Investment objectives and principal investment strategy." It is currently anticipated that the Fund will be able to invest substantially all of the net proceeds of the offering in accordance with its investment objectives and policies within three months after the completion of the offering. However, until it is able to do so, the Fund may invest in temporary investments, such as cash, cash equivalents, short-term debt securities or U.S. government securities, which could negatively impact the Fund's returns during such period. A delay in the anticipated use of proceeds could lower returns and reduce the Fund's distribution to holders of Common Shares ("Common Shareholders"). |

---

**Summary of Fund expenses**

The purpose of the following table and the example below is to help you understand the fees and expenses that Common Shareholders would bear directly or indirectly. The expenses shown in the table under "Other expenses" are estimated for the current fiscal year ending October 31, 2025. The expenses shown in the table under "Interest expenses on bank borrowings," "Dividends on Preferred Shares" and "Total annual expenses" are estimated based on the Fund's capital structure for the current fiscal year after giving effect to the anticipated net proceeds of this offering. The tables also reflect the estimated use of leverage by the Fund through bank borrowings and Preferred Shares representing in the aggregate 27.8% of Managed Assets (consistent with the percentage of leverage in place as of April 30, 2025) of the Fund's total assets (including the assets subject to, and obtained with the proceeds of, such borrowings), and show Fund expenses as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares. The table reflects the anticipated net proceeds of the Common Shares offered pursuant to this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus and assuming the Fund incurs the estimated offering expenses. If the Fund issues fewer than all of the Common Shares available for sale pursuant to the Distribution Agreement and the net proceeds to the Fund are less, all other things being equal, the total annual expenses shown would increase.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Common Shareholder transaction expenses** |  |
| Sales load (as a percentage of offering price)(1) | 1.00% |
| Offering expenses borne by the Fund (as a percentage of offering price)(2) | 0.23% |
| Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan fees (per share for open-market purchases of Common Shares)(3) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fee for Open Market Purchases of Common Shares | $0.02 (per share) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fee for Optional Shares Purchases | $5.00 (max) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales of Shares Held in a Dividend Reinvestment Account | $0.12 (per share) and $25.00 (max) |

---

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | **Annual expenses<br>(as a percentage of net assets<br>attributable to**<br>**Common Shares)(4)** |
| Advisory fee(5) | 1.66% |
| Interest expenses on bank borrowings(6) | 1.79% |
| Dividends on Preferred Shares(7) | 0.24% |
| Other expenses | 0.28% |
| Total annual expenses | 3.97% |
| Less: expense reimbursement(8) | (0.03%) |
| Total annual expenses after expense reimbursement | 3.94% |

---

(1) Represents the estimated commission with respect to the Common Shares being sold in this offering.

(2) Offering expenses payable by the Fund will be deducted from the proceeds, before expenses, to the Fund.

(3) Shareholders who participate in the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan (the "Plan") may be subject to fees on certain transactions. The Plan Agent's (as defined under "Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan" in the accompanying Prospectus) fees for the handling of the reinvestment of dividends will be paid by the Fund; however, participating shareholders will pay a $0.02 per share fee incurred in connection with open-market purchases in connection with the reinvestment of dividends, capital gains distributions and voluntary cash payments made by the participant, which will be deducted from the value of the dividend. For optional share purchases, shareholders will also be charged a $2.50 fee for automatic debits from a checking/savings account, a $5.00 one-time fee for online bank debit and/or $5.00 for check. Shareholders will be subject to $0.12 per share fee and either a $10.00 fee (for batch orders) or $25.00 fee (for market orders) for sales of shares held in a dividend reinvestment account. Per share fees include any applicable brokerage commissions the Plan Agent is required to pay. For more details about the Plan, see "Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan" in the accompanying Prospectus.

(4) Based upon average net assets attributable to our Common Shares during the six months ended April 30, 2025, after giving effect to the anticipated net proceeds of this offering. Assumes the Fund sells 12,626,263 Common Shares at an offering price of $5.94 (the last reported sale price per Common Share on the NYSE as of July 21, 2025). The price per Common Share may be greater or less than the price assumed herein, depending on the market price of the Common Shares at the time of any sale. There is no guarantee that there will be any sales of Common Shares pursuant to this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. The number of Common Shares actually sold pursuant to this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus may be less than as assumed herein.

(5) The Adviser receives a monthly fee at an annual rate of 1.25% of the Fund's average daily Managed Assets. The advisory fee percentage calculation assumes the use of leverage by the Fund as discussed in notes (6) and (7). To derive the annual advisory fee as a percentage of the Fund's net assets (which are the Fund's total assets less all of the Fund's liabilities including the liquidation preference on the Preferred Shares), the Fund's average Managed Assets for the semi-annual period ended April 30, 2025 (plus the anticipated net proceeds of this offering as described in note (4)) were multiplied by the annual advisory fee rate and then divided by the Fund's average net assets for the same period (plus the anticipated net proceeds of this offering as described in note (4)).

(6) The percentage in the table is based on total borrowings of $260,000,000 (the balance outstanding under the Fund's Credit Facility as of April 30, 2025, representing approximately 24.1% of the Fund's Managed Assets) and an average interest rate during the six months ended April 30, 2025 of 5.97%. There can be no assurances that the Fund will be able to obtain such level of borrowing (or to maintain its current level of borrowing), that the terms under which the Fund borrows will not change, or that the Fund's use of leverage will be profitable. The Fund currently intends during the next twelve months to maintain a similar proportionate amount of borrowings but may increase such amount to 33 1/3% of the average daily value of the Fund's total assets.

(7) Based on 1,600,000 Preferred Shares outstanding as of the semi-annual period ended April 30, 2025, with an aggregate liquidation preference of $40 million and an annual dividend rate equal to 5.250% of such liquidation preference. The costs associated with the Preferred Shares are borne entirely by Common Shareholders.

(8) The Adviser has contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund so that total other expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage fees, short sale dividend and interest expenses and non-routine expenses) (as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares of the Fund) are limited to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund on an annualized basis. This contractual limitation may not be terminated before October 31, 2026 without the approval of the Independent Trustees. The Fund may repay any such reimbursement from the Adviser, within three years of the reimbursement, provided that the following requirements are met: the reimbursements do not cause the Fund to exceed the lesser of the applicable expense limitation in the contract at the time the fees were limited or expenses are paid or the applicable expense limitation in effect at the time the expenses are being recouped by the Adviser. Because interest expenses and investment related expenses are not subject to the reimbursement agreement, interest expenses and investment related expenses are included in the "Total annual expenses after expense reimbursement" line item.

**Example**

The following example illustrates the expenses you would pay on a $1,000 investment in common shares assuming a 5% annual portfolio total return.\*

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** | **5 Years** | **10 Years** |
| $51 | $132 | $213 | $425 |

---

\* The example assumes the sales load and estimated offering costs from the expense table. The example should not be considered a representation of future expenses or rate of return and actual Fund expenses may be greater or less than those shown. The example assumes that (i) all dividends and other distributions are reinvested at NAV, (ii) the percentage amounts listed under "Total annual expenses" above remain the same in the years shown and (iii) the expense reimbursement agreement is only in effect through October 31, 2026 as described in note (8) above. For more complete descriptions of certain of the Fund's costs and expenses, see "Management of the Fund — Advisory Agreements" in the accompanying Prospectus.

**CAPITALIZATION**

Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement with the Distributor, the Fund may offer and sell up to $75,000,000 of the Fund's Common Shares from time to time through the Distributor for the offer and sale of the Common Shares under this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. There is no guarantee that there will be any sales of the Fund's Common Shares pursuant to this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. The table below shows (i) the Fund's historical capitalization as of April 30, 2025; (ii) the estimated capitalization of the Fund assuming the sale of all $75,000,000 of the Fund's Common Shares that are subject to the Distribution Agreement (assumes the Fund sells 12,626,263 Common Shares at an offering price of $5.94, which is the last reported sale price per Common Share on the NYSE as of July 21, 2025) on a pro forma, as adjusted basis as of April 30, 2025. Actual sales, if any, of the Fund's Common Shares, and the actual application of the proceeds thereof, under this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus may be different than as set forth in the table below. In addition, the price per share of any such sale may be greater or less than $5.94 depending on the market price of the Common Shares at the time of any such sale. The Fund and the Distributor will determine whether any sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day. The Fund and the Distributor, however, will not authorize sales of Common Shares if the price per Common Share is less than the Minimum Price. The Fund and the Distributor may elect not to authorize sales of Common Shares on a particular day even if the price per Common Share is equal to or greater than the Minimum Price or may only authorize a fixed number of Common Shares to be sold on any particular day. The Fund and the Distributor will have full discretion regarding whether sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day and, if so, in what amounts.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Actual as of<br>April 30, 2025** | **As Adjusted as of<br>April 30, 2025** |
| **Preferred Shares:** | | |
| Preferred Shares, $0.001 par value per share, unlimited shares authorized (The "Actual" column reflects the Fund's outstanding capitalization as of April 30, 2025) | $40000000 | $40000000 |
| **Common Shareholders' Equity:** |  |  |
| Common Shares, $0.001 par value per share; unlimited shares authorized (The "Actual" column reflects the 125,470,678 shares outstanding as of April 30, 2025. The "As Adjusted" column assumes the issuance of 12,626,263 Common Shares in this offering.) | 125471 | 138097 |
| Paid-in capital\* | 1245228668 | 1319293642 |
| Total distributable loss | (499269056) | (499269056) |
| **Net Assets** | $746085083 | $820162683 |

---

\* As adjusted paid-in surplus reflects a deduction for estimated offering expenses of $172,400 and assumed agent discounts and commissions of $750,000.

**USE OF PROCEEDS**

The Fund intends to invest the net proceeds of the offering in accordance with its investment objectives and policies as stated in the accompanying Prospectus under the heading "Investment objectives and principal investment strategy." It is currently anticipated that the Fund will be able to invest substantially all of the net proceeds of the offering in accordance with its investment objectives and policies within three months after the completion of the offering. However, until it is able to do so, the Fund may invest in temporary investments, such as cash, cash equivalents, short-term debt securities or U.S. government securities, which could negatively impact the Fund's returns during such period. A delay in the anticipated use of proceeds could lower returns and reduce the Fund's distribution to Common Shareholders.

**MARKET AND NET ASSET VALUE INFORMATION**

The Fund's currently outstanding Common Shares are, and the Common Shares offered pursuant to this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus will be, subject to notice of issuance, listed on the NYSE. The Fund commenced operations on January 26, 2011.

The Common Shares have traded both at a premium and at a discount to the Fund's NAV per Common Share. Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount to NAV. The Fund's NAV 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 Fund. The sale of Common Shares by the Fund (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.

As of July 21, 2025, 125,470,678 Common Shares were outstanding. The last reported sales price, NAV per Common Share and percentage discount to NAV per Common Share on July 21, 2025 was $5.94, $6.14 and 3.26%, respectively. The Fund cannot predict whether its Common Shares will trade in the future at a premium to or discount to NAV, or the level of any premium or discount. Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount from NAV.

**PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION**

The Fund has entered into the Distribution Agreement with ALPS Distributors, Inc., pursuant to which the Fund may offer and sell up to $75,000,000 Common Shares from time to time through the Distributor in transactions that are deemed to be "at the market" as defined in Rule 415 under the Securities Act. The minimum price on any day at which Common Shares may be sold will not be less than the Minimum Price, which will be equal to the then current NAV per Common Share plus the per Common Share amount of the commission to be paid to the Distributor. The Fund and the Distributor will determine whether any sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day. The Fund and the Distributor, however, will not authorize sales of Common Shares if the price per Common Share is less than the Minimum Price. The Fund and the Distributor may elect not to authorize sales of Common Shares on a particular day even if the price per Common Share is equal to or greater than the Minimum Price or may only authorize a fixed number of Common Shares to be sold on any particular day. The Fund and the Distributor will have full discretion regarding whether sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day and, if so, in what amounts.

The Distributor may enter into sub-placement agent agreements with one or more selected dealers. The Distributor has entered into the Sub-Placement Agent Agreement with UBS Securities LLC relating to the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. In accordance with the terms of the Sub-Placement Agent Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell its Common Shares from time to time through the Sub-Placement Agent as sub-placement agent for the offer and sale of its Common Shares.

The Distributor (or the Sub-Placement Agent) will provide written confirmation to the Fund not later than the opening of the trading day on the NYSE following any trading day on which Common Shares are sold. Each confirmation will include the number of Common Shares sold on the preceding day, the net proceeds to the Fund and the compensation payable by the Fund to the Distributor in connection with the sales.

The Fund will compensate the Distributor with respect to sales of Common Shares at a commission rate of 1.00% of the gross proceeds of the sale of Common Shares. Out of this commission, the Distributor will compensate the Sub-Placement Agent at a rate of up to 0.80% of the gross sales proceeds of the sale of the Common Shares sold by the Sub-Placement Agent. There is no guarantee that there will be any sales of Common Shares under this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus.

Settlement for sales of Common Shares will occur on the first trading day following the date on which such sales are made in return for payment of the net proceeds to the Fund. There is no arrangement for funds to be deposited in escrow, trust or similar arrangement.

In connection with the sale of Common Shares on behalf of the Fund, the Distributor may be deemed to be an "underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities Act, and the compensation paid to the Distributor may be deemed to be underwriting commissions or discounts.

The Fund has agreed to indemnify the Distributor against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act. The Distributor has agreed to indemnify the Sub-Placement Agent against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.

The offering of Common Shares pursuant to the Distribution Agreement will terminate upon the earlier of (1) the sale of all Common Shares subject to the Distribution Agreement or (2) the termination of the Distribution Agreement. The Distribution may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the Fund or by the Distributor, on sixty days' written notice to the other party.

The Common Shares may not be sold through the Distributor or the Sub-Placement Agent without delivery or deemed delivery of this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus describing the method and terms of the offering of the Common Shares.

The Sub-Placement Agent, its affiliates or their respective employees hold or may hold in the future, directly or indirectly, investment interests in the Fund. The interests held by the Sub-Placement Agent, its affiliates or their respective employees are not attributable to, and no investment discretion is held by, the Sub-Placement Agent, its affiliates or their respective affiliates.

The principal business address of ALPS Distributors, Inc. is 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, Colorado 80203. The principal business address of UBS Securities LLC is 1285 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10019.

**LEGAL MATTERS**

Certain legal matters in connection with the Common Shares will be passed on for the Fund by Dechert LLP.

**INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE**

This Prospectus Supplement, including the accompanying Prospectus, is part of a Registration Statement that the Fund has filed with the SEC. The Fund is permitted to "incorporate by reference" the information that it files with the SEC, which means that the Fund can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is an important part of this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus, and later information that the Fund 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 this offering, are incorporated by reference into this Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus and deemed to be part of this Prospectus Supplement and accompanying Prospectus from the date of the filing of such reports and documents:

● the Fund's Statement of Additional Information, dated May 30, 2024 ("SAI"), filed with this Prospectus Supplement;

● the Fund's Annual Report on [Form N-CSR](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465925002454/tm2430769d1_ncsr.htm) for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on January 10, 2025;

● the Fund's Semi-Annual Report on [Form N-CSRS](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465925066097/tm2517609d1_ncsrs.htm) for the fiscal period ended April 30, 2025, filed with the SEC on July 7, 2025 ("Semi-Annual Report")

● the Fund's definitive proxy statement on [Schedule 14A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465925034679/tm2512004d9_def14a.htm) for the Fund's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, filed with the SEC on April 14, 2025; and

● the Fund's description of common shares contained in the Fund's Registration Statement on [Form 8-A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000095010311000228/dp20758_8a12b.htm) (File No. 001-35051) filed with the SEC on January 24, 2011.

To obtain copies of these filings, see "Additional Information" in this Prospectus Supplement and "Where You Can Find More Information" in the accompanying Prospectus.

**ADDITIONAL INFORMATION**

This Prospectus Supplement, the accompanying Prospectus and the documents incorporated herein or therein by reference constitute part of a Registration Statement filed by the Fund with the SEC under the Securities Act, and the 1940 Act. This Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying Prospectus omit 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 Fund and the Common Shares offered hereby. Any statements contained herein concerning the provisions of any document are not necessarily complete, and, in each instance, reference is made 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). Free copies of the Fund's Prospectus, SAI, reports and any incorporated information will also be available from the Fund's website at <u>https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds</u>. Information contained on the Fund's website is not considered to be a part of, nor incorporated by reference in, this Prospectus Supplement or the accompanying Prospectus.

 **BASE PROSPECTUS**

**$182,234,959**

**abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund Common Shares Preferred Shares Notes Subscription Rights for Common Shares**

*The Fund.* abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund (the "Fund") is a diversified, closed-end management investment company.

*Investment Objectives.* The Fund's primary investment objective is to seek a high level of current income with a secondary objective of capital appreciation.

*Principal Investment Strategy; Leverage.* Depending on current market conditions and the Fund's outlook over time, the Fund seeks to achieve its investment objectives by opportunistically investing primarily in loan and debt instruments (and loan-related or debt-related instruments, including repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements and derivative instruments) of issuers that operate in a variety of industries and geographic regions. The Fund expects to emphasize high current income, with a secondary emphasis on capital appreciation, by investing generally in senior secured floating rate and fixed rate loans and in second lien or other subordinated loans or debt instruments, including non-stressed and stressed credit obligations, and related derivatives. Under normal market conditions, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its "Managed Assets" in any combination of the following credit obligations and related instruments: (i) senior secured floating rate and fixed rate loans ("Senior Loans") (including those that, at the time of investment, are rated below investment grade by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (a "NRSRO") or are unrated but deemed by the Advisers to be of comparable quality; these types of below investment grade instruments are commonly known as "junk" securities and are regarded as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal); (ii) second lien or other subordinated or unsecured floating rate and fixed rate loans or debt (including those that, at the time of investment, could be considered "junk" securities as described above); (iii) other debt obligations, including high-yield, high-risk obligations (i.e., instruments that are commonly known as "junk" securities as described above) and "covenant lite" loans; (iv) structured products, including collateralized debt and loan obligations (collectively, "structured products") that provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; (v) swaps and other derivative instruments (including credit default, total return, index and interest rate swaps, options, forward contracts, futures contracts and options on futures contracts) that provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; and (vi) short-term debt securities such as U.S. government securities, commercial paper and other money market instruments and cash equivalents (including shares of money market funds). Certain types of structured products, swaps and other derivative instruments provide short exposure to other credit obligations because the value of such instruments is inversely related to the value of one or more other credit obligations. "Managed Assets" are the total assets of the Fund (including any assets attributable to money borrowed for investment purposes, including proceeds from (and assets subject to) reverse repurchase agreements, any credit facility and any issuance of preferred shares or notes) minus the sum of the Fund's accrued liabilities (other than Fund liabilities incurred for the purpose of leverage).

Leverage — The Fund is permitted to obtain leverage using any form or combination of financial leverage instruments, including reverse repurchase agreements, credit facilities such as bank loans or commercial paper, and the issuance of preferred shares or notes.

The Fund is permitted to have financial leverage representing up to the maximum extent permitted by the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act generally prohibits the Fund from engaging in most forms of leverage representing indebtedness other than preferred shares unless immediately after such incurrence the Fund's total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities (for these purposes, "total net assets") is at least 300% of the aggregate senior securities representing indebtedness (i.e., the use of leverage through senior securities representing indebtedness may not exceed 33 1/3% of the Fund's total net assets (including the proceeds from leverage)). Additionally, under the 1940 Act, the Fund generally may not declare any dividend or other distribution upon any class of its capital shares, or purchase any such capital shares, unless at the time of such declaration or purchase, this asset coverage test is satisfied. In addition, the 1940 Act limits the extent to which the Fund may issue preferred shares plus senior securities representing indebtedness to 50% of the Fund's total assets (less the Fund's liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities). Indebtedness associated with

------

reverse repurchase agreements and similar financing transactions may be aggregated with any other senior securities representing indebtedness for this purpose or be treated as derivatives transactions under the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, depending on the Fund's election under applicable SEC requirements. See "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy" and "Leverage" below and "Investment Restrictions" in the Statement of Additional Information, dated May 30, 2024 (the "SAI"). **There is no assurance that the Fund's leveraging strategy will be successful. Leverage involves special risks. See "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy** — Use of Leverage and Related Risks"

*Offering.* The Fund may offer, from time to time, up to $182,234,959 aggregate initial offering price of common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share ("Common Shares"), preferred shares ("Preferred Shares"), promissory notes ("Notes") subscription rights to purchase Common Shares ("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 Fund may offer Securities (1) directly to one or more purchasers, (2) through agents that the Fund 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 Fund and agents or underwriters or among underwriters or the basis upon which such amount may be calculated. The Fund may not sell Securities through agents, underwriters or dealers without delivery of this Prospectus and a Prospectus Supplement. See "Plan of Distribution."

***Investing in Securities involves risks, including the risk that you may receive little or no return on your investment or that you may lose part or all of your investment. Before buying any Securities, you should read the discussion of the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including that the Fund may invest all or a substantial portion of its assets in below investment grade securities which are often referred to as high yield or "junk" securities. The principal risks of investing in the Fund are summarized in "The Fund at a Glance — Risk Factors" beginning on page 11 of this Prospectus and further described in "Risk Factors" beginning on page 20 of this Prospectus.***

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (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 May 30, 2024**

*Adviser and Sub-Adviser.* abrdn Investments Limited serves as investment adviser to the Fund and abrdn Inc. ("abrdn Inc." or the "Sub-Adviser") serves as the sub-adviser, pursuant to an investment advisory agreement and a sub-advisory agreement, respectively. The Adviser and the Sub-Adviser (collectively, the "Advisers") are indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries of abrdn plc ("abrdn plc").

*Common Shares.* The Fund'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 "ACP." As of May 6, 2024, the net asset value of the Fund's Common Shares was $6.75 per Common Share and the last reported sale price for the Fund's Common Shares on the NYSE was $6.73 per Common Share, representing a discount to net asset value of 0.30%. See "NAV, Market Price and Discount" in the Annual Report for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023 (together with any updates thereto in subsequent periodic filings) (the "Annual Report").

*Distributions.* The Fund's policy is to provide common shareholders with a stable monthly distribution out of current income, supplemented by realized capital gains and, to the extent necessary, paid-in capital, which is a non-taxable return of capital. This policy is subject to an annual review as well as regular review at the Board of Trustee's (the "Board") quarterly meetings, unless market conditions require an earlier evaluation.

This Prospectus sets forth concisely information about the Fund you should know before investing. Please read this Prospectus carefully before deciding whether to invest and retain it for future reference. The SAI has been filed with the SEC. This Prospectus incorporates by reference the entire SAI. The SAI is available along with other Fund-related materials on the EDGAR database on the SEC's internet site (http://www.sec.gov) or upon payment of copying fees by electronic request to publicinfo@sec.gov.

ii

------

You may also request a free copy of the SAI, annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders, and additional information about the Fund, and may make other shareholder inquiries, by calling Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465, by writing to the Fund or visiting the Fund's website (https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds).

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

iii

------

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| About this Prospectus | 1 |
| Where you can find more information | 1 |
| Incorporation by reference | 2 |
| Summary of Fund expenses | 2 |
| The Fund at a glance | 4 |
| Financial highlights | 12 |
| Senior securities | 15 |
| The Fund | 15 |
| Use of proceeds | 16 |
| Description of Common Shares | 16 |
| Investment objectives and principal investment strategy | 16 |
| Risk factors | 20 |
| Management of the Fund | 20 |
| Legal proceedings | 22 |
| Net asset value of Common Shares | 22 |
| Distributions | 22 |
| Tax matters | 22 |
| Closed-end fund structure | 25 |
| Dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan | 25 |
| Description of capital structure | 26 |
| Plan of distribution | 35 |
| Custodian, dividend paying agent, transfer agent and registrar | 37 |
| Legal opinions | 37 |
| Independent registered public accounting firm | 37 |
| Additional information | 37 |

---

iv

------

**ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS**

This Prospectus is part of a Registration Statement on Form N-2 that the Fund filed with the SEC using a "shelf" registration process. Under this process, the Fund may offer, from time to time, up to $182,234,959 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."

**You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus and any accompanying Prospectus Supplement. The Fund 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 Fund is not making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should assume that the information contained or the representations made herein are accurate only as of the date on the cover page of this Prospectus. The Fund's business, financial condition and prospects may have changed since that date. The Fund 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.**

**Cautionary notice regarding forward-looking statements**

This Prospectus, any accompanying Prospectus Supplement and the SAI, contain (or will contain) or incorporate (or will incorporate) by reference "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements can be identified by the words "may," "will," "intend," "expect," "estimate," "continue," "plan," "anticipate," and similar terms with the negative of such terms. By their nature, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Several factors that could materially affect the Fund's actual results are the performance of the portfolio of securities the Fund holds, the price at which the Fund's Securities will trade in the public markets and other factors discussed in the Fund's periodic filings with the SEC.

Although the Fund believes that the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed in the Fund's forward-looking statements. 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 "Risk Factors" section of this Prospectus. All forward-looking statements contained in this Prospectus or in the SAI are made as of the date of this Prospectus or SAI, as the case may be. Except for ongoing obligations under the federal securities laws, the Fund does not intend and is not obligated, to update any forward-looking statement.

**WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION**

The Fund is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and the Investment Company Act of 1940 ("1940 Act") and in accordance therewith files, or will file, reports and other information with the SEC. Reports, proxy statements and other information filed by the Fund with the SEC pursuant to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act and the 1940 Act can be inspected and copied at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The SEC maintains a web site at www.sec.gov containing reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants, including the Fund, that file electronically with the SEC.

This Prospectus constitutes part of a Registration Statement filed by the Fund with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933 ("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 Fund and the Common Shares offered hereby. Any statements contained herein concerning the provisions of any document are not necessarily complete, and, in each instance, reference is made 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 Fund 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 Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465 or you may obtain a copy (and other information regarding the Fund**)** from the SEC's website (www.sec.gov). Free copies of the Fund's Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information and any incorporated information will also be available from the Fund's website at https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds. Information contained on the Fund'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 Fund has filed with the SEC. The Fund is permitted to "incorporate by reference" the information that it files with the SEC, which means that the Fund 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 Fund 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, 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 Fund's Statement of Additional Information, dated May 30, 2024, filed with this Prospectus ("SAI");

• the Fund's Annual Report on [Form N-CSR](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on January 8, 2024 ("Annual Report");

• the Fund's definitive proxy statement on [Schedule 14A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924044658/tm2410797d1_def14a.htm) for the Fund's 2024 annual meeting of shareholders, filed with the SEC on April 8, 2024 ("Proxy Statement"); and

• the Fund's description of common shares contained in the Fund's Registration Statement on [Form 8-A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000095010311000228/dp20758_8a12b.htm) (File No. 001-35051) filed with the SEC on January 24, 2011.

• the Fund's description of 5.25% Series A Perpetual Preferred Stock contained in the Fund's Registration Statement on [Form 8-A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465921063024/tm2115392d1_8a12b.htm) (File No. 001-35051) filed with the SEC on May 7, 2021.

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

**SUMMARY OF FUND EXPENSES**

The purpose of the following table and the example below is to help you understand the fees and expenses that holders of Common Shares ("Common Shareholders") would bear directly or indirectly. The expenses shown in the table under "Other expenses" are estimated for the Fund's current fiscal year ending October 31, 2024. The expenses shown in the table under "Interest expenses on bank borrowings," "Total annual expenses" and "Total annual expenses after expense reimbursement" are based on the Fund's capital structure as of October 31, 2023. As of October 31, 2023, the Fund had $145,000,000 of leverage outstanding through bank borrowings and Preferred Shares which represented 42.67% of the Fund's net assets as of October 31, 2023. The table reflects Fund expenses as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares. The Fund's net assets have been restated to reflect the net assets as of October 31, 2023 (rather than average net assets over the twelve months ended October 31, 2023) in order to provide more accurate expense ratios due to a significant increase in Fund assets that occurred on March 10, 2023 as the result of a reorganization of another closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act with and into the Fund.

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Common Shareholder transaction expenses** | **Common Shareholder transaction expenses** |
| Sales load (as a percentage of offering price)(1) |  |
| Offering expenses Borne by the Fund (excluding Preferred Shares Offering<br>Expenses) (as a percentage of offering price)(2) |  |
| Dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan fees: (per share<br>for open-market purchases of common shares)(3) | Dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan fees: (per share<br>for open-market purchases of common shares)(3) |
| Fee for Open Market Purchases of Common Shares | $0.02 (per share) |
| Fee for Optional Shares Purchases | $5.00 (max) |
| Sales of Shares Held in a Dividend Reinvestment Account | $0.12 (per share) and $25.00 (max) |

---

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **Annual expenses<br>(as a percentage of net assets<br>attributable to<br>Common Shares)** |
| Advisory fee(4) | 1.79% |
| Interest expenses on bank borrowings(5) | 1.94% |
| Dividends on Preferred Shares(6) | 0.62% |
| Other expenses | 0.46% |
| Total annual expenses | 4.81% |
| Less: expense reimbursement(7) | 0.21% |
| Total annual expenses after expense reimbursement | 4.60% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) If Common Shares or Preferred Shares are sold to or through underwriters, a prospectus supplement will set forth any applicable sales load and the estimated offering expenses borne by the Fund.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Offering expenses payable by the Fund will be deducted from the proceeds, before expenses, to the Fund.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Shareholders who participate in the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan (the "Plan") may be subject to fees on certain transactions. The Plan Agent's (as defined under "Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan" in this Prospectus) fees for the handling of the reinvestment of dividends will be paid by the Fund; however, participating shareholders will pay a $0.02 per share fee incurred in connection with open-market purchases in connection with the reinvestment of dividends, capital gains distributions and voluntary cash payments made by the participant, which will be deducted from the value of the dividend. For optional share purchases, shareholders will also be charged a $2.50 fee for automatic debits from a checking/savings account, a $5.00 one-time fee for online bank debit and/or $5.00 for check. Shareholders will be subject to $0.12 per share fee and either a $10.00 fee (for batch orders) or $25.00 fee (for market orders) for sales of shares held in a dividend reinvestment account. Per share fees include any applicable brokerage commissions the Plan agent is required to pay. For more details about the Plan, see "Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan" in this Prospectus.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) The Adviser receives a monthly fee at an annual rate of 1.25% of the Fund's average daily Managed Assets. The advisory fee percentage calculation assumes the use of leverage by the Fund as discussed in note (5) and (6). To derive the annual advisory fee as a percentage of the Fund's net assets (which are the Fund's total assets less all of the Fund's liabilities including the liquidation preference on the Preferred Shares), the Fund's Managed Assets as of October 31, 2023 were multiplied by the annual advisory fee rate and then divided by the Fund's net assets as of October 31, 2023.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) The percentage in the table is based on total borrowings of $105,000,000 (the balance outstanding under the Fund's Credit Facility as of October 31, 2023, representing approximately 21.7% of the Fund's Managed Assets) and an average interest rate during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023 of 6.26%. There can be no assurances that the Fund will be able to obtain such level of borrowing (or to maintain its current level of borrowing), that the terms under which the Fund borrows will not change, or that the Fund's use of leverage will be profitable. The Fund currently intends during the next twelve months to maintain a similar proportionate amount of borrowings but may increase such amount to 33 1/3% of the average daily value of the Fund's total assets.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) Based on 1,600,000 Preferred Shares outstanding as of October 31, 2023 with an aggregate liquidation preference of $40 million and an annual dividend rate equal to 5.250% of such liquidation preference. The costs associated with the Preferred Shares are borne entirely by Common Shareholders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) Effective March 12, 2024, the Adviser contractually agreed to limit total "Other Expenses" of the Fund (excluding any interest, taxes, brokerage fees, short sale dividend and interest expenses and non-routine

------

expenses) as a percentage of net assets attributable to common shares of the Fund to 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets until the end of the twelfth month following the effective date of the Fund's Registration Statement and then 0.35% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets until June 30, 2025. The Fund may repay any such reimbursement from the Adviser, within three years of the reimbursement, provided that the following requirements are met: the reimbursements do not cause the Fund to exceed the lesser of the applicable expense limitation in the contract at the time the fees were limited or expenses are paid or the applicable expense limitation in effect at the time the expenses are being recouped by the Adviser. Because interest expenses and investment related expenses are not subject to the reimbursement agreement, interest expenses and investment related expenses are included in the "Total annual expenses after expense reimbursement" line item.

**Example**

The following example illustrates the expenses you would pay on a $1,000 investment in common shares, followed by a preferred share offering, assuming a 5% annual portfolio total return.\*

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** | **5 Years** | **10 Years** |
| $46 | $143 | $240 | $484 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;\* The example does not include sales load or estimated offering costs. The example should not be considered a representation of future expenses or rate of return and actual Fund expenses may be greater or less than those shown. The example assumes that (i) all dividends and other distributions are reinvested at NAV, and (ii) the percentage amounts listed under "Total annual expenses" above remain the same in the years shown. The expense reimbursement agreement for the Fund, described in footnote 7 to the fee table above, impacts the 1-Year figure listed in the above expense example. For more complete descriptions of certain of the Fund's costs and expenses, see "Management of the Fund — Advisory Agreements."

**THE FUND AT A GLANCE**

**Information regarding the Fund**

The Fund is a closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act. The Fund was organized as a statutory trust under the laws of the State of Delaware on October 12, 2010, and commenced operations on January 27, 2011. Pursuant to guidance from the SEC, the Fund's classification changed from a non-diversified fund to a diversified fund. As a result of this classification change, the Fund is limited in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the securities of a single issuer. As of May 6, 2024 the Fund's net asset value ("NAV") per Common Share was $6.75. See "The Fund."

**NYSE listed**

As of May 6, 2024, the Fund had 52,109,950 Common Shares outstanding. The Fund's Common Shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol "ACP." As of May 6, 2024, the last reported sales price of a Common Share of the Fund was $6.73, representing a discount to NAV of 0.30%.

**Who may want to invest**

Investors should consider their investment goals, time horizons and risk tolerance before investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not appropriate for all investors, and the Fund is not intended to be a complete investment program. The Fund is designed as a long-term investment and not as a trading vehicle. The Fund may be an appropriate investment for investors who are seeking:

• a closed-end fund that seeks attractive risk adjusted returns with a high level of current income by investing generally in Senior Loans and in second lien or other subordinated loans or debt instruments, including non-stressed and stressed credit obligations, and related derivatives;

• a fund that seeks a balance between credit risk and interest rate risk and investment returns;

• exposure to Senior Loans for an overall portfolio that lacks such exposure; and

• a portfolio that may be invested globally with professional selection and active management by the Adviser.

------

**Investment objectives and principal investment strategy**

The Fund's primary investment objective is to seek a high level of current income with a secondary objective of capital appreciation. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objectives.

Depending on current market conditions and the Fund's outlook over time, the Fund seeks to achieve its investment objectives by opportunistically investing primarily in loan and debt instruments (and loan-related or debt-related instruments, including repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements and derivative instruments) of issuers that operate in a variety of industries and geographic regions. The Fund expects to emphasize high current income, with a secondary emphasis on capital appreciation, by investing generally in senior secured floating rate and fixed rate loans and in second lien or other subordinated loans or debt instruments, including non-stressed and stressed credit obligations, and related derivatives. Under normal market conditions, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its "Managed Assets" in any combination of the following credit obligations and related instruments: (i) senior secured floating rate and fixed rate loans ("Senior Loans") (including those that, at the time of investment, are rated below investment grade by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (a "NRSRO") or are unrated but deemed by the Advisers to be of comparable quality; these types of below investment grade instruments are commonly known as "junk" securities and are regarded as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal); (ii) second lien or other subordinated or unsecured floating rate and fixed rate loans or debt (including those that, at the time of investment, could be considered "junk" securities as described above); (iii) other debt obligations, including high-yield, high-risk obligations (i.e., instruments that are commonly known as "junk" securities as described above) and "covenant lite" loans; (iv) structured products, including collateralized debt and loan obligations (collectively, "structured products") that provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; (v) swaps and other derivative instruments (including credit default, total return, index and interest rate swaps, options, forward contracts, futures contracts and options on futures contracts) that provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; and (vi) short-term debt securities such as U.S. government securities, commercial paper and other money market instruments and cash equivalents (including shares of money market funds). Certain types of structured products, swaps and other derivative instruments provide short exposure to other credit obligations because the value of such instruments is inversely related to the value of one or more other credit obligations. "Managed Assets" are the total assets of the Fund (including any assets attributable to money borrowed for investment purposes, including proceeds from (and assets subject to) reverse repurchase agreements, any credit facility and any issuance of preferred shares or notes) minus the sum of the Fund's accrued liabilities (other than Fund liabilities incurred for the purpose of leverage).

The Fund has no liquidity limitation or restriction, thus some or all its investments may be illiquid securities.

The Advisers have expertise in Senior Loans and subordinated debt instruments, including those of stressed and distressed issuers, and are responsible for the overall management of the Fund.

The Advisers seek to maximize risk adjusted returns, including by seeking to manage risk through shorting and other hedging strategies when deemed advisable by the Advisers. There can be no assurance that the Fund's hedging strategies will succeed. The Advisers seek to achieve the Fund's investment objectives while carefully evaluating risk/return within the capital structure of a company, as well as the industry and asset class. The Advisers look to maintain trading flexibility and to preserve capital. They conduct thorough in-depth research and employ a disciplined investment philosophy and a consistent investment approach in their focus on credit opportunities. The Advisers' investment teams use a robust credit process that includes research and analysis using a top-down/bottom-up approach to find mispriced or undervalued opportunities: from the top down, they consider macroeconomic themes of the overall credit market and industries, and from the bottom up, they conduct detailed fundamental analysis related to credit obligations of specific issuers, including examining issuers' financials and operations, including sales, earnings, growth potential, assets, debt, management and competition. The Advisers also seek to understand historic and prospective industry trends affecting an investment opportunity.

The Fund can invest in both fixed-rate and floating-rate credit obligations.

When investing in credit obligations, the Fund may invest in the same securities or other credit obligations in which other accounts managed by the Advisers also invest. To the extent that the Advisers serve as an investment manager to other accounts in the future that have the same investment strategy as the Fund, investment opportunities within such strategy will, to the extent practicable, be allocated among the Fund and such other accounts on a pro rata basis or on such other basis as the Advisers determine to be fair and equitable to the Fund and such other accounts.

------

The Fund's policy of investing, under normal market conditions, in accordance with its portfolio construction guidelines, is not considered to be fundamental by the Fund and can be changed without the vote of the Fund's shareholders by the Board with at least sixty (60) days written notice provided to shareholders.

**Portfolio Turnover Rate**

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may vary from year to year. The Fund believes that, under normal market conditions, its portfolio turnover may exceed 100%. Because it is difficult to predict accurately portfolio turnover rates, actual turnover may be higher or lower. A high portfolio turnover rate increases a fund's transaction costs (including brokerage commissions and dealer costs), which would adversely impact a fund's performance. Higher portfolio turnover may result in the realization of more short-term capital gains than if a fund had lower portfolio turnover.

**Portfolio Investments**

*Portfolio Construction Guidelines.* The Fund will not invest in credit obligations or related instruments that, at the time of investment, are in default. The Fund may invest in credit obligations or related instruments that, at the time of investment, are likely to default. The credit obligations and related instruments in which the Fund may invest include mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities and securities whose value depends on the value of mortgage-backed or asset-backed securities. These types of investments present special risks. See "Risk Factors." The Fund may act as a lender originating a Senior Loan.

Under normal market conditions, the Fund may also invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in any combination of the following: (i) structured products that do not provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; (ii) swaps and other derivative instruments (including total return, index and interest rate swaps, options, warrants, forward contracts, futures contracts and options on futures contracts) that do not provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations; (iii) foreign currencies and foreign currency derivatives (including foreign currency related swaps, futures contracts and forward contracts) acquired for the purpose of hedging the currency risk arising from the credit obligations in the Fund's portfolio; and (iv) equity securities obtained through the conversion or exchange of convertible or exchangeable instruments, debt restructurings or bankruptcy proceedings and hedges on such positions. Structured products, swaps and other derivative instruments that do not provide long or short exposure to other credit obligations are those instruments whose reference or underlying assets or indices are not credit obligations or indices of credit obligations. Examples of such instruments include equity- and commodity-linked notes, total return swaps based on the value of an equity security and commodity futures contracts. The Fund may invest in such instruments in order, for example, (i) to seek current income or capital appreciation or (ii) to reduce the Fund's exposure solely to credit obligations. The Adviser believes that the flexibility afforded by being able to invest in such instruments may benefit the Fund by (i) allowing the Fund to invest in potentially attractive investment opportunities that are not credit obligations and (ii) increasing the mix of instruments in the Fund's portfolio which could reduce the overall risk of the Fund's portfolio. There can be no assurance that these benefits will be realized and such instruments may expose the Fund to risks not presented by credit obligations.

If the Fund receives equity securities in a debt restructuring or bankruptcy proceeding in an amount that would cause it to exceed the foregoing 20% limitation, the Fund will not be required to reduce its positions in such securities, or in any related hedges or any other investment, if the Adviser believes it would not be in the best interest of the Fund to do so.

Percentage limitations described in this prospectus are as of the time of investment by the Fund and may be exceeded after such time because of changes in the market value of the Fund's assets.

The Fund may not invest in a derivative (other than a credit default swap or a currency hedging instrument) if, immediately after the investment, derivatives (other than credit default swaps and currency hedging instruments) would represent more than 30% of the Fund's Managed Assets on a marked-to-market basis. The Fund may use derivative instruments for hedging, as well as speculative, purposes.

The Fund's policy of investing, under normal market conditions, in accordance with the foregoing portfolio construction guidelines, is not considered to be fundamental by the Fund and can be changed without the vote of the Fund's shareholders by the Board with at least sixty (60) days written notice provided to shareholders.

*Credit quality, liquidity and geographic origin of portfolio investments*. The Fund may invest, without limitation, in credit obligations that are rated below investment grade by a NRSRO such as S&P or Moody's or

------

unrated credit obligations that are deemed by the Advisers to be of comparable quality, commonly known in either case as "junk" securities. Such securities are regarded as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations and involve significant risk exposure to adverse conditions. Any of the Fund's investments may be issued, at the time of investment by the Fund, by "non-stressed" or "stressed" issuers. The Fund may invest in credit obligations of any maturity or duration. "Non-stressed issuers" generally refers to those issuers that are in compliance with respect to their financial obligations and are not stressed or distressed issuers. "Non-stressed obligations" generally refers to credit obligations issued by non-stressed issuers. "Stressed issuers" generally refers to those issuers that the market expects to become distressed issuers in the near future. "Stressed obligations" generally refers to credit obligations issued by stressed issuers. "Distressed issuers" generally refers to those issuers that are unable to service their debt. "Distressed obligations" generally refers to credit obligations issued by distressed issuers. The Fund does not intend to invest in credit obligations issued by issuers that, at the time of investment, the Advisers believe to be distressed issuers.

In making investments in accordance with the foregoing portfolio construction guidelines, the Fund may invest globally in U.S. and non-U.S. issuers' obligations and such obligations may be U.S. dollar denominated as well as non-U.S. dollar denominated. The Fund typically seeks to limit its exposure to foreign currency risks by entering into forward transactions and other hedging transactions to the extent practical. There can be no assurance that the Fund's currency hedging strategies will succeed. Under normal market conditions, the Fund expects to continue investing in both U.S. and non-U.S. issuers. The geographic areas of focus are subject to change from time to time and may be changed without notice to the Fund's shareholders. There is no minimum or maximum limit on the amount of the Fund's assets that may be invested in non-U.S. credit obligations generally or in emerging market credit obligations specifically.

The Fund may invest in loans and bonds issued by issuers of any size. The Fund's focus with respect to borrower size is subject to change from time to time and may be changed without notice to the Fund's shareholders. The Fund may invest in credit obligations at all levels of the capital structure. In investing in credit obligations, the Fund focuses on senior secured debt and other senior debt (including senior unsecured debt issued by an issuer that has also issued senior secured debt). The Fund's focus in this regard is subject to change from time to time and may be changed without notice to the Fund's shareholders.

Investors should note that the investment advisory fee structure for other accounts managed by the Advisers may be different than the investment advisory fee structure for the Fund. See "Management of the Fund — Potential Conflicts of Interest of the Advisers" in the SAI for more information on advisory fees and the Advisers' policies and procedures to address conflicts of interest. The Fund offers an opportunity for its investors to have access to an investment strategy implemented by the Advisers, which normally is not directly available to retail investors, albeit only at the lower risk and return segment of the market.

**Temporary investments**

During temporary defensive periods or in order to keep the Fund's cash fully invested and, for defensive purposes, during periods in which the Advisers believe that changes in economic, financial or political conditions make it advisable to do so, the Fund may reduce its primary investment holdings (when taking a defensive position) and invest in certain short-term (less than one (1) year to maturity) and medium-term (not greater than five (5) years to maturity) debt securities or hold cash. The short-term and medium-term debt securities in which the Fund may invest consist of: (i) obligations of the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities; (ii) bank deposits and bank obligations (including certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances) of U.S. or foreign banks denominated in any currency; (iii) floating rate securities and other instruments denominated in any currency issued by various governments or international development agencies; (iv) finance company and corporate commercial paper and other short-term corporate debt obligations of U.S. or foreign corporations; (v) repurchase agreements with banks and broker-dealers with respect to such securities; and (vi) shares of money market funds. See "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy — Other Investments — Temporary Investments" and "Use of Proceeds" below.

**Leverage**

The Fund is permitted to obtain leverage using any form or combination of financial leverage instruments, including reverse repurchase agreements, credit facilities such as bank loans or commercial paper and the issuance of preferred shares or notes.

------

The Fund is permitted to have financial leverage representing up to the maximum extent permitted by the 1940 Act, which is up to 33 1/3% of the Fund's total assets (including the assets subject to, and obtained with the proceeds of, such leverage). The Fund intends to use leverage opportunistically and may choose to increase or decrease its leverage, or use different types or combinations of leveraging instruments, at any time based on the Fund's assessment of market conditions and the investment environment. The Fund is currently a party to a $170,000,000 senior secured 364-day revolving credit facility with various lenders and with BNP Paribas acting as administrative agent and BNP Paribas Securities Corp. acting as sole lead arranger and sole book manager (the "Credit Facility") and, as of October 31, 2023, had $105,000,000 in borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility, which represented approximately 21.7% of the Fund's Managed Assets as of such date (including the proceeds of such leverage).

The 1940 Act generally prohibits the Fund from engaging in most forms of leverage representing indebtedness other than preferred shares unless immediately after such incurrence the Fund's total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities (for these purposes, "total net assets") is at least 300% of the aggregate senior securities representing indebtedness (i.e., the use of leverage through senior securities representing indebtedness may not exceed 33 1/3% of the Fund's total net assets (including the proceeds from leverage)). Additionally, under the 1940 Act, the Fund generally may not declare any dividend or other distribution upon any class of its capital shares, or purchase any such capital shares, unless at the time of such declaration or purchase, this asset coverage test is satisfied. In addition, the 1940 Act limits the extent to which the Fund may issue preferred shares plus senior securities representing indebtedness to 50% of the Fund's total assets (less the Fund's liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities). Indebtedness associated with reverse repurchase agreements and similar financing transactions may be aggregated with any other senior securities representing indebtedness for this purpose or be treated as derivatives transactions under the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, depending on the Fund's election under applicable SEC requirements. See "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy — Use of Leverage and Related Risks" for more information.

Use of leverage creates an opportunity for increased income and return for the Common Shareholders but, at the same time, creates risks, including the likelihood of greater volatility in the NAV and market price of, and distributions on, the Common Shares. There can be no assurance that the Fund will continue to use leverage or that its leveraging strategy will be successful during any period in which it is employed. The Fund may be subject to investment restrictions of one or more NRSROs and/or credit facility lenders as a result of its use of financial leverage. These restrictions may impose asset coverage or portfolio composition requirements that are more stringent than those imposed on the Fund by the 1940 Act. It is not anticipated that these covenants or portfolio requirements will significantly impede the Advisers in managing the Fund's portfolio in accordance with its investment objectives and policies. Nonetheless, if these covenants or guidelines are more restrictive than those imposed by the 1940 Act, the Fund may not be able to utilize as much leverage as it otherwise could have, which could reduce the Fund's investment returns. In addition, the Fund expects that any notes or a credit facility would contain covenants that, among other things, will likely impose geographic exposure limitations, credit quality minimums, liquidity minimums, concentration limitations and currency hedging requirements on the Fund. These covenants would also likely limit the Fund's ability to pay distributions in certain circumstances, incur additional debt, change fundamental investment policies and engage in certain transactions, including mergers and consolidations. Such restrictions could cause the Advisers to make different investment decisions than if there were no such restrictions and could limit the ability of the Board and Common Shareholders to change fundamental investment policies. If preferred shares are used, holders of preferred shares will have rights to elect a minimum of two trustees. This voting power may negatively affect Common Shareholders, and the interests of holders of preferred shares may otherwise differ from the interests of Common Shareholders. Any trustees elected by preferred shareholders will represent both Common Shareholders as well as holders of preferred shares. Such trustees may have a conflict of interest when the interests of Common Shareholders differ from those of holders of preferred shares.

The costs of a financial leverage program (including the costs of offering preferred shares and notes) will be borne by Common Shareholders and consequently will result in a reduction of the NAV of the Common Shares. During periods in which the Fund is using leverage, the fees paid by the Fund for investment advisory services will be higher than if the Fund did not use leverage because the investment advisory fees paid will be calculated on the basis of the Fund's Managed Assets, which includes proceeds from (and assets subject to) reverse repurchase agreements, any credit facility and any issuance of preferred shares or notes, so that the investment advisory fees payable to the Adviser will be higher when leverage is utilized. This will create a conflict of interest between the Advisers, on the one hand, and Common Shareholders, on the other hand. To

------

monitor this potential conflict, the Board intends periodically to review the Fund's use of leverage, including its impact on Fund performance and on the Adviser's fees. See "Management of the Fund — Potential Conflicts of Interest of the Advisers" in the SAI. Fees and expenses in respect of financial leverage, as well as the investment advisory fee and all other expenses of the Fund, will be borne entirely by the Common Shareholders, and not by preferred shareholders, noteholders or any other leverage providers.

The Fund may enter into other transactions that may give rise to a form of leverage including, among others, swaps, futures and forward contracts, options and other derivative transactions. See "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy — Use of Leverage and Related Risks" and "Risk Factors." However, these transactions may represent a form of economic leverage and will create risks. The potential loss on derivative instruments may be substantial relative to the initial investment therein. See "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy — Portfolio Composition," " — Structured Products," " — Swaps" and " — Other Derivative Instruments"; and "Risk Factors."

**The Adviser**

abrdn Investments Limited ("aIL"), a Scottish Company, serves as the adviser to the Fund. aIL's registered address is 10 Queen's Terrace, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom, AB10 1XL. aIL is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of abrdn plc, which manages or administers approximately $632.2 billion in assets as of June 30, 2023. The Fund pays aIL a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 1.25% of the Fund's average daily Managed Assets. Managed Assets are the total assets of the Fund (including any assets attributable to money borrowed for investment purposes, including proceeds from (and assets subject to) reverse repurchase agreements, any credit facility and any issuance of preferred shares or notes) minus the sum of the Fund's accrued liabilities (other than Fund liabilities incurred for the purpose of leverage).

aIL has contractually agreed to limit total "Other Expenses" of the Fund (excluding any interest, taxes, brokerage fees, short sale dividend and interest expenses and non-routine expenses) as a percentage of net assets attributable to common shares of the Fund to 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets until the end of the twelfth month following the effective date of the Fund's Registration Statement and then 0.35% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets until June 30, 2025.

In rendering investment advisory services to the Fund, aIL and abrdn Inc. may use the resources of subsidiaries owned by abrdn plc. The abrdn plc affiliates have entered into a memorandum of understanding/personnel sharing procedures pursuant to which investment professionals from the abrdn plc affiliates may render portfolio management, research and/or trade services to US clients of aIL or abrdn Inc.

**The Sub-Adviser**

abrdn Inc. serves as the sub-adviser to the Fund, pursuant to a sub-advisory agreement among aIL, the Fund and abrdn Inc. abrdn Inc. is located at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of abrdn plc. For its services to the Fund, abrdn Inc. receives a percentage of the advisory fee received by aIL from the Fund after fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any. For its services as Sub-Adviser, abrdn Inc. is paid only by the Adviser out of its fees, and is not paid directly by the Fund.

Under the Sub-Advisory Agreement, subject to the directions of aIL and the Board, aIL has retained abrdn Inc. to monitor on a continuous basis the performance of the Fund's assets and to assist aIL in conducting a continuous program of investment, evaluation and, if appropriate, sale and reinvestment of the Fund's assets.

**The Administrator**

abrdn Inc. also serves as administrator to the Fund. Under the administration agreement, abrdn Inc. is generally responsible for managing the administrative affairs of the Fund.

Pursuant to the administration agreement, abrdn Inc. receives a fee, payable monthly by the Fund, at an annual fee rate of 0.125% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $1 billion, 0.10% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets between $1 billion and $2 billion, and 0.075% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets in excess of $2 billion. See "Management of the Fund — The Administrator."

State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") serves as sub-administrator of the Fund and is paid by abrdn Inc. out of the fees it receives as the Fund's administrator.

------

**Investor Relations**

Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement approved by the Fund's Board, abrdn Inc. provides and pays third parties to provide investor relations services to the Fund and certain other funds advised by the Adviser or its affiliates as part of an Investor Relations Program. Under the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement, the Fund owes a portion of the fees related to the Investor Relations Program (the "Fund's Portion"). However, investor relations services fees are limited by abrdn Inc. so that the Fund will only pay up to an annual rate of 0.05% of the Fund's average weekly net assets. Any difference between the capped rate of 0.05% of the Fund's average weekly net assets and the Fund's Portion is paid for by abrdn Inc.

Pursuant to the terms of the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement, abrdn Inc. (or third parties engaged by abrdn Inc.), among other things, provides objective and timely information to stockholders based on publicly available information; provides information efficiently through the use of technology while offering stockholders immediate access to knowledgeable investor relations representatives; develops and maintains effective communications with investment professionals from a wide variety of firms; creates and maintains investor relations communication materials such as fund manager interviews, films and webcasts, publishes white papers, magazine articles and other relevant materials discussing the Fund's investment results, portfolio positioning and outlook; develops and maintains effective communications with large institutional shareholders; responds to specific shareholder questions; and reports activities and results to the Board and management detailing insight into general shareholder sentiment.

**Legal proceedings**

As of the date of this Prospectus, the Fund and the Advisers are not currently parties to any material legal proceedings.

**Distributions**

The Fund intends to make regular monthly distributions of all or a portion of the Fund's net interest and other investment company taxable income to shareholders. The Fund expects to pay its shareholders annually all or substantially all of its investment company taxable income. In addition, the Fund intends to distribute, on an annual basis, all or substantially all of any net capital gains to its shareholders.

Various factors will affect the level of the Fund's net interest and other investment company taxable income, of which the Fund intends to distribute all or substantially all on an annual basis to meet the requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may from time to time distribute less than the entire amount of income earned in a particular period. The undistributed income would be available to supplement future distributions. As a result, the distributions paid by the Fund for any particular month may be more or less than the amount of income actually earned by the Fund during that period. Undistributed income will add to the Fund's NAV and, correspondingly, distributions will reduce the Fund's NAV.

In certain circumstances, the Fund may elect to retain its investment company taxable income or capital gain and pay income or excise tax on such undistributed amount, to the extent that the Board, in consultation with the Advisers, determines it to be in the best interest of shareholders to do so. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of the fiscal and calendar year and may be subject to change based on tax regulations.

**Dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan**

The Fund has established a dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan. A Common Shareholder will automatically have all dividends and distributions reinvested in Common Shares newly issued by the Fund or Common Shares of the Fund purchased in the open market in accordance with the Fund's dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan unless the Common Shareholder specifically elects to receive cash. Taxable distributions are subject to federal income tax whether received in cash or additional common shares. See "Distributions" and "Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan."

------

**Custodian, dividend paying agent, transfer agent and registrar**

State Street serves as custodian (the "Custodian") for the Fund. State Street also provides accounting services to the Fund. Computershare serves as the Fund's dividend paying agent, transfer agent and registrar. See "Custodian, Dividend Paying Agent, Transfer Agent and Registrar."

**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 NAV 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 objectives and policies. In addition, in comparison to open-end funds, closed-end funds have greater flexibility in the employment of financial leverage and in the ability to make certain types of investments, including investments in illiquid securities.

However, shares of closed-end funds frequently trade at a discount from their NAV. In recognition of the possibility that the Common Shares might trade at a discount to NAV and that any such discount may not be in the interest of Common Shareholders, the Board, in consultation with the Adviser, from time to time may review possible actions to reduce any such discount. On June 12, 2018, the Board approved an open market repurchase and discount management policy (the "Program") for the Fund. The Program allows the Fund to purchase, in the open market, its outstanding common shares, with the amount and timing of any repurchase determined at the discretion of the Fund's investment adviser. Such purchases may be made opportunistically at certain discounts to net asset value per share in the reasonable judgment of management based on historical discount levels and current market conditions. The Fund reports repurchase activity on the Fund's website on a monthly basis. On a quarterly basis, the Fund's Board will receive information on any transactions made pursuant to this policy during the prior quarter and management will post the number of shares repurchased on the Fund's website on a monthly basis. Under the terms of the Program, the Fund is permitted to repurchase up to 10% of its outstanding shares of common stock in the open market during any 12 month period. There can be no assurance, however, that the Board 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 NAV. The Board might also consider the conversion of the Fund to an open-end mutual fund, which would also require a vote of the shareholders of the Fund. Conversion of the Fund to an open-end mutual fund would require approval by both (i) a majority of the Board and (ii) a vote of shareholders representing the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund at a shareholder meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities are present in person or by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund.

The Fund has no limitation or restrictions on investments in illiquid securities (closed-end funds are not required to have any such limitation) and may invest all or a portion of its assets in illiquid securities. In order to meet redemptions upon request by shareholders, open-end funds typically cannot have more than 15% of their net assets in illiquid securities. Thus, if the Fund were to convert to an open-end fund, it would have to adopt a limitation on illiquid securities and may need to revise its investment objectives, strategies and policies. The composition of the Fund's portfolio and/or its investment policies could prohibit the Fund from complying with regulations of the SEC applicable to open-end management investment funds absent significant changes in portfolio holdings, including with respect to certain illiquid securities, and investment policies. The Board believes, however, that the closed-end structure is desirable, given the Fund's investment objectives, strategies and policies. Investors should assume, therefore, that it is highly unlikely that the Board would vote to convert the Fund to an open-end investment company. Investors should note that the issuance of preferred shares to provide investment leverage could make a conversion to an open-end fund more difficult because of the voting rights of preferred shareholders, the costs of redeeming preferred shares and other factors. See "Description of Capital Structure."

**Risk factors**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Risk Factors" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference. Each of the risk factors contained thereunder is a principal risk of the Fund. Investors should consider the specific risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. A Prospectus Supplement relating to an offering of the Fund's securities may identify additional risk associated with such offering.

------

**FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS**

The financial highlights as of and for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2023, October 31, 2022, October 31, 2021, October 31, 2020 and October 31, 2019 have been audited by KPMG LLP ("KPMG"), independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund. KPMG's report on the financial statements and financial highlights, together with the financial statements and financial highlights of the Fund, are included in the Fund's [Annual Report for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) and is incorporated by reference.

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** |
| | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020** | **2019** |
| **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** |
| Net asset value per common share,<br>beginning of year | $6.72 | $10.45 | $10.15 | $12.46 | $14.08 |
| Net investment income | 0.57 | 0.87 | 0.98 | 0.87 | 1.05 |
| Net realized and unrealized gains/<br>(losses) on investments, forward<br>foreign currency exchange<br>contracts and foreign currency<br>transactions | 0.47 | (3.35) | 1.11 | (1.07) | (1.23) |
| Total from investment operations<br>applicable to common shareholders | 1.04 | (2.48) | 2.09 | (0.20) | (0.18) |
| **Distributions to preferred shareholders from:** | **Distributions to preferred shareholders from:** | **Distributions to preferred shareholders from:** | **Distributions to preferred shareholders from:** | **Distributions to preferred shareholders from:** | **Distributions to preferred shareholders from:** |
| Net investment income | (0.05) | (0.09) | (0.05) |  |  |
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets<br>attributable to common shareholders<br>resulting from operations | 0.99 | (2.57) | 2.04 |  |  |
| **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** |
| Net investment income | (0.72) | (1.20) | (1.13) | (0.77) | (1.41) |
| Return of capital | (0.48) |  | (0.07) | (0.63) | (0.03) |
| Total distributions | (1.20) | (1.20) | (1.20) | (1.40) | (1.44) |
| Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: |
| Offering costs for preferred shares<br>charged to paid-in-capital |  |  | (0.11) |  |  |
| Impact of shelf offering | 0.01 | 0.04 |  |  |  |
| Dilutive effect of rights offer<br>(Note 5) |  |  | (0.43) | (0.71) |  |
| Total capital share transactions | 0.01 | 0.04 | (0.54) |  |  |
| Net asset value per common share,<br>end of year | $6.52 | $6.72 | $10.45 | $10.15 | $12.46 |
| Market price, end of year | $5.78 | $6.37 | $11.30 | $9.18 | $11.33 |
| **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** |
| Market price | 8.05% | (34.92<br> %) | 37.13% | (6.16%) | (2.48%) |
| Net asset value | 15.54<br> %<sup>(c)</sup> | (25.76<br> %)<sup>(c)</sup> | 14.69% | (5.65%) | (0.29%) |

---

------

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** |
| | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020** | **2019** |
| **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable<br>to Common Shareholders/<br>Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable<br>to Common Shareholders/<br>Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable<br>to Common Shareholders/<br>Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable<br>to Common Shareholders/<br>Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable<br>to Common Shareholders/<br>Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable<br>to Common Shareholders/<br>Supplementary Data:** |
| Net assets including liquidation<br>value of preferred shares, end of<br>year (000 omitted) | $379844 | $206650 | $283077 | $— | $— |
| Net assets applicable to common<br>shareholders, end of year<br>(000 omitted) | $339844 | $166650 | $243077 | $176871 | $162939 |
| Average net assets applicable to<br>common shareholders<br>(000 omitted) | $294262 | $206720 | $218990 | $181152 | $167302 |
| Net operating expenses, net of fee<br>waivers/recoupments | 4.56% | 3.70% | 2.86% | 3.06% | 3.89% |
| Net operating expenses, excluding fee<br>waivers/recoupments | 4.80% | 3.95% | 3.01% | 3.24% | 4.05% |
| Net operating expenses, net of fee<br>waivers/recoupment, excluding<br>interest expense, commitment fee<br>and loan servicing fees | 2.26% | 2.48% | 2.24% | 2.15% | 2.27% |
| Net Investment income | 8.25% | 10.10% | 8.75% | 8.26% | 8.19% |
| Portfolio turnover | 83% | 66% | 63% | 97% | 93% |
| Senior securities (loan facility)<br>outstanding (000 omitted) | $105000 | $88000 | $118000 | $81200 | $72000 |
| Asset coverage ratio on senior<br>securities year end<sup>(d)</sup> | 462% | 335% | 340% | 318% | 326% |
| Asset coverage per $1000 on senior<br>securities year end | $4618 | $3348 | $3399 | $3178 | $3263 |
| Asset coverage ratio on total leverage<br>at year end<sup>(e)</sup> | 334% | 230% | 254% | 318% | 326% |
| Asset coverage per $1,000 on total<br>leverage at year end | $3344 | $2302 | $2538 | $3178 | $3263 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Based on average shares outstanding.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Total investment return based on market value is calculated assuming that shares of the Fund's common stock were purchased at the closing market price as of the beginning of the period, dividends, capital gains and other distributions were reinvested as provided for in the Fund's dividend reinvestment plan and then sold at the closing market price per share on the last day of the period. The computation does not reflect any sales commission investors may incur in purchasing or selling shares of the Fund. The total investment return based on the net asset value is similarly computed except that the Fund's net asset value is substituted for the closing market value.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The total return shown above includes the impact of financial statement rounding of the NAV per share and/or financial statement adjustments.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Asset coverage ratio is calculated by dividing net assets plus the amount of any borrowings, including Series A Perpetual Preferred Shares, for investment purposes by the amount of any senior securities, which includes the revolving credit facility.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) Asset coverage ratio is calculated by dividing net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes by the amount of any borrowings.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amounts listed as "—" are $0 or round to $0.

------

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** | **For the Fiscal Years Ended October 31,** |
| | **2018** | **2017** | **2016** | **2015** | **2014** |
| **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** | **PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE<sup>(a)</sup>:** |
| Net asset value per common share,<br>beginning of year | $15.25 | $14.63 | $14.91 | $18.04 | $18.63 |
| Net investment income | 1.55 | 1.49 | 1.46 | 1.48 | 1.57 |
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses)<br>on investments, interest rate swaps,<br>futures contracts and foreign currency<br>transactions | (1.28) | 0.57 | (0.30) | (2.76) | (0.55) |
| Total from investment operations applicable<br>to common shareholders | 0.27 | 2.06 | 1.16 | (1.28) | 1.02 |
| **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** | **Distributions to common shareholders from:** |
| Net investment income | (1.44) | (1.44) | (1.31) | (1.59) | (1.54) |
| Net realized gains |  |  |  | (0.26) | (0.07) |
| Tax return of capital |  |  | (0.13) |  |  |
| Total distributions | (1.44) | (1.44) | (1.44) | (1.85) | (1.61) |
| Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: | Capital Share Transactions: |
| Net asset value per common share, end of year | $14.08 | $15.25 | $14.63 | $14.91 | $18.04 |
| Market value, end of year | $13.09 | $14.62 | $12.60 | $13.09 | $16.35 |
| **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** | **Total Investment Return Based on<sup>(b)</sup>:** |
| Market value | (0.75%) | 28.39% | 8.75% | (9.29%) | 4.24% |
| Net asset value | 2.34% | 15.34% | 10.86% | (6.36%) | 6.19% |
| **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable to<br>Common Shareholders/Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable to<br>Common Shareholders/Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable to<br>Common Shareholders/Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable to<br>Common Shareholders/Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable to<br>Common Shareholders/Supplementary Data:** | **Ratio to Average Net Assets Applicable to<br>Common Shareholders/Supplementary Data:** |
| Net assets applicable to common shareholders,<br>end of year (000 omitted) | $184028 | $199375 | $191323 | $194937 | $235813 |
| Average net assets applicable to common<br>shareholders (000 omitted) | $195965 | $198723 | $175817 | $213105 | $246204 |
| Net operating expenses, net of fee waivers/<br>recoupments | 3.49% | 3.15% | 3.04% | 2.86% | 2.89% |
| Net operating expenses, excluding fee<br>waivers/recoupments | 3.55% | 3.13% | 3.06% | 2.80% | 2.77% |
| Net operating expenses, net of fee waivers/<br>recoupment, excluding interest expense,<br>commitment fee and loan servicing fees | 2.24% | 2.26% | 2.33% | 2.32% | 2.27% |
| Net investment income | 10.34% | 9.78% | 10.88% | 9.07% | 8.31% |
| Portfolio turnover | 103% | 95% | 95% | 56% | 48% |
| Senior securities (loan facility) outstanding<br>(000 omitted) | $83000 | $83000 | $83000 | $90000 | $100000 |
| Asset coverage per $1,000 on revolving<br>credit facility at year end<sup>(c)</sup> | $3217 | $3402 | $3305 | $3166 | $3358 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Based on average shares outstanding.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Total investment return based on market value is calculated assuming that shares of the Fund's common stock were purchased at the closing market price as of the beginning of the period, dividends, capital gains and other distributions were reinvested as provided for in the Fund's dividend reinvestment plan and then sold at the closing market price per share on the last day of the period. The computation does not reflect any sales commission investors may incur in purchasing or selling shares of the Fund. The total investment return based on the net asset value is similarly computed except that the Fund's net asset value is substituted for the closing market value.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Asset coverage ratio is calculated by dividing net assets plus the amount of any borrowings, for investment purposes by the amount of the Revolving Credit Facility.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amounts listed as " — " are $0 or round to $0.

------

**SENIOR SECURITIES**

The following table sets forth information about the Fund's outstanding senior securities as of the end of each of the Fund's last ten fiscal years. The Fund's senior securities during this time period are comprised of borrowings which constitutes a "senior security" as defined in the 1940 Act. The information in this table for the fiscal years ended 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019 has been audited by KPMG LLP, independent registered public accounting firm. The report of KPMG LLP thereon, is attached as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fiscal Year<br>Ended)** | **Title of Security** | **Total Amount<br>Outstanding** | **Total Amount<br>Outstanding** | **Asset<br>Coverage(2)(3)** | **Involuntary<br>Liquidating<br>Preference<br>Per Unit** | **Average<br>Market<br>Value Per<br>Unit(4)** |
| October 31, 2023 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $105000000 | (1) | $4618 |  |  |
|  | 5.250% Series A Perpetual Preferred<br>Shares | $40000000 |  | $3344 | $25.00 | $22.21 |
| October 31, 2022 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $88000000 | (1) | $3348 |  |  |
|  | 5.250% Series A Perpetual Preferred<br>Shares | $40000000 |  | $2302 | $25.00 | $24.40 |
| October 31, 2021 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $118000000 | (1) | $3399 |  |  |
|  | 5.250% Series A Perpetual Preferred<br>Shares | $40000000 |  | $2538 | $25.00 | $26.56 |
| October 31, 2020 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $81200000 | (1) | $3178 |  |  |
| October 31, 2019 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $72000000 | (1) | $3263 |  |  |
| October 31, 2018 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $83000000 | (1) | $3217 |  |  |
| October 31, 2017 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $83000000 | (1) | $3402 |  |  |
| October 31, 2016 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $83000000 | (1) | $3305 |  |  |
| October 31, 2015 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $90000000 | (1) | $3166 |  |  |
| October 31, 2014 | Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility | $100000000 | (1) | $3358 |  |  |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Principal amount outstanding represents the principal amount owed by the Fund to lenders under credit facility arrangements in place at the time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) The asset coverage for the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility is calculated by dividing net assets plus the amount of any borrowings, including Series A Perpetual Preferred Shares, for investment purposes by the amount of any senior securities, which includes the Revolving Credit Facility, and then multiplying by $1,000.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) The asset coverage for the Fund's 5.250% Series A Perpetual Preferred Shares is calculated by dividing net assets as of each fiscal period end plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes outstanding as of each fiscal period end by the amount of any borrowings as of each fiscal period end, and then multiplying by $1,000.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) Represents the average of the daily closing market price per share as reported on the NYSE during the respective period.

**THE FUND**

The Fund is a closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act. The Fund was organized as a statutory trust under the laws of the State of Delaware on October 12, 2010, and commenced operations on January 27, 2011. The Fund began operations as a non-diversified fund, however, pursuant to guidance from the SEC, the Fund's classification changed from a non-diversified fund to a diversified fund. As a result of this classification change, the Fund is limited in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the securities of a single issuer.

The Fund's primary investment objective is to seek a high level of current income with a secondary objective of capital appreciation. No assurance can be given that the Fund's investment objectives will be achieved.

abrdn Investments Limited ("aIL"), a Scottish Company, serves as the adviser to the Fund. aIL's registered address is 10 Queen's Terrace, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom, AB10 1XL. aIL is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of abrdn plc, which manages or administers approximately $632.2 billion in assets as of

------

June 30, 2023. abrdn Inc. serves as the Sub-Adviser to the Fund. The Adviser and Sub-Adviser are registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act").

**USE OF PROCEEDS**

The Fund registered $182,234,959 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 Fund intends to invest the net proceeds of an offering of Securities in accordance with its investment objectives and policies as stated in this Prospectus. It is currently anticipated that the Fund will be able to invest substantially all of the net proceeds of an offering of Securities in accordance with its investment objectives 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 the net proceeds will be invested in fixed income securities and other permitted investments. See "Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy". A delay in the anticipated use of proceeds could lower returns and reduce the Fund's distribution to Common Shareholders.

**DESCRIPTION OF COMMON SHARES**

The Fund's Common Shares are publicly held and are listed and traded on the NYSE. The following table sets forth for the fiscal quarters indicated the highest and lowest daily prices during the applicable quarter at the close of market on the NYSE per Common Share along with (i) the highest and lowest closing NAV and (ii) the highest and lowest premium or discount from NAV represented by such prices at the close of the market on the NYSE.

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **NYSE Market<br>Price(1)** | **NYSE Market<br>Price(1)** | **NAV at NYSE<br>Market Price(1)** | **NAV at NYSE<br>Market Price(1)** | **Market<br>Premium/(Discount)<br>to NAV on Date of<br>NYSE Market Price(1)** | **Market<br>Premium/(Discount)<br>to NAV on Date of<br>NYSE Market Price(1)** |
|<br>**Quarter Ended(2)** | **High** | **Low** | **High** | **Low** | **High** | **Low** |
| April 30, 2024 | $7.04 | $6.46 | $7.13 | $6.70 | (1.12)% | (3.58)% |
| January 31, 2024 | $7.00 | $5.89 | $7.13 | $6.51 | (0.71)% | (9.52)% |
| October 31, 2023 | $7.15 | $5.62 | $6.96 | $6.47 | 2.73% | (13.14)% |
| July 31, 2023 | $6.98 | $6.46 | $7.06 | $6.80 | (0.43)% | (5.00)% |
| April 30, 2023 | $8.50 | $6.45 | $7.38 | $6.89 | 16.28% | (6.66)% |
| January 31, 2023 | $8.21 | $6.32 | $7.34 | $6.65 | 12.16% | (4.96)% |
| October 31, 2022 | $8.72 | $6.16 | $7.80 | $6.54 | 12.81% | (5.81)% |
| July 31, 2022 | $9.33 | $7.57 | $8.74 | $7.11 | 6.75% | 3.13% |
| April 30, 2022 | $10.51 | $9.34 | $10.01 | $8.80 | 7.68% | 2.64% |
| January 31, 2022 | $11.45 | $9.62 | $10.53 | $9.94 | 8.94% | (4.47)% |
| October 31, 2021 | $11.69 | $10.94 | $11.02 | $10.45 | 6.66% | 1.11% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Source: Bloomberg L.P.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Data presented are with respect to a short period of time and are not indicative of future performance.

On May 6, 2024, the Fund's NAV was $6.75 and the last reported sale price of a Common Share on the NYSE was $6.73, representing a discount to NAV of 0.30%.

**INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY**

The information contained under the following headings in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) are incorporated herein by reference: "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Investment Objectives and Policies."

**PORTFOLIO TURNOVER**

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may vary from year to year. The Fund believes that, under normal market conditions, its portfolio turnover may be up to or over 100%. Because it is difficult to predict accurately portfolio turnover rates, actual turnover may be higher or lower. A high portfolio turnover rate increases a fund's transaction costs (including brokerage commissions and dealer costs), which would adversely impact a fund's performance. Higher portfolio turnover may result in the realization of more short-term capital gains than if a fund had lower portfolio turnover.

------

**PORTFOLIO**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Portfolio Investments" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**Credit quality, liquidity and geographic origin of portfolio investments**

The Fund may invest, without limitation, in credit obligations that are rated below investment grade by a NRSRO such as S&P or Moody's or unrated credit obligations that are deemed by the Advisers to be of comparable quality, commonly known in either case as "junk" securities. Such securities are regarded as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations and involve significant risk exposure to adverse conditions. Any of the Fund's investments may be issued, at the time of investment by the Fund, by "non-stressed" or "stressed" issuers. The Fund may invest in credit obligations of any maturity or duration. "Non-stressed issuers" generally refers to those issuers that are in compliance with respect to their financial obligations and are not stressed or distressed issuers. "Non-stressed obligations" generally refers to credit obligations issued by non-stressed issuers. "Stressed issuers" generally refers to those issuers that the market expects to become distressed issuers in the near future. "Stressed obligations" generally refers to credit obligations issued by stressed issuers. "Distressed issuers" generally refers to those issuers that are unable to service their debt.

"Distressed obligations" generally refers to credit obligations issued by distressed issuers. The Fund does not intend to invest in credit obligations issued by issuers that, at the time of investment, the Advisers believe to be distressed issuers.

In making investments in accordance with the foregoing portfolio construction guidelines, the Fund may invest globally in U.S. and non-U.S. issuers' obligations and such obligations may be U.S. dollar denominated as well as non-U.S. dollar denominated. The Fund typically seeks to limit its exposure to foreign currency risks by entering into forward transactions and other hedging transactions to the extent practical. There can be no assurance that the Fund's currency hedging strategies will succeed. Under normal market conditions, the Fund expects to continue investing in both U.S. and non-U.S. issuers. The geographic areas of focus are subject to change from time to time and may be changed without notice to the Fund's shareholders. There is no minimum or maximum limit on the amount of the Fund's assets that may be invested in non-U.S. credit obligations generally or in emerging market credit obligations specifically.

The Fund may invest in loans and bonds issued by issuers of any size. The Fund's focus with respect to borrower size is subject to change from time to time and may be changed without notice to the Fund's shareholders. The Fund may invest in credit obligations at all levels of the capital structure. In investing in credit obligations, the Fund focuses on senior secured debt and other senior debt (including senior unsecured debt issued by an issuer that has also issued senior secured debt). The Fund's focus in this regard is subject to change from time to time and may be changed without notice to the Fund's shareholders.

**INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Investment Objectives and Policies" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Portfolio Composition" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**PORTFOLIO INVESTMENTS**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Portfolio Investments" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**USE OF LEVERAGE AND RELATED RISKS**

The Fund utilizes financial leverage for investment purposes (*i.e.,* to purchase additional portfolio securities consistent with the Fund's investment objectives and primary investment strategy). The Fund has utilized leverage since shortly after it began investment operations and expects to continue to use leverage, although there can be no assurance, however, that the Fund will continue to engage in any leveraging techniques. The Fund is

------

currently a party to a $170,000,000 senior secured 364-day revolving credit facility with various lenders and with BNP Paribas acting as administrative agent and BNP Paribas Securities Corp. acting as sole lead arranger and sole book manager (the "Credit Facility") and, as of October 31, 2023, had $105,000,000 in borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility, which represented approximately 21.7% of the Fund's Managed Assets as of such date (including the proceeds of such leverage). The Fund's portfolio investments, among other property of the Fund, have been pledged as collateral to secure the loans made under the Credit Facility. Under the Credit Facility, the Fund is required to prepay outstanding loans or incur a penalty rate of interest upon the occurrence of certain events of default. Under the Credit Facility, the Fund has agreed to indemnify the lender, its affiliates and other related parties against liabilities they may incur relating to the Credit Facility. Further, until the lender's commitment to make loans has terminated and the Fund's borrowings have been repaid, the Credit Facility imposes on the Fund customary covenants, including all of the restrictive covenants described below in the last paragraph of "Description of Capital Structure — Credit Facility/Notes" (other than a covenant requiring currency hedging). The Credit Facility expires on November 20, 2024 (although, subject to certain conditions including the payment of an additional fee, the Fund may extend the maturity date of its outstanding loans for up to approximately one (1) year following such expiration date). Although the Fund currently intends to renew the Credit Facility prior to its expiration date, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to do so or do so on terms similar to the current Credit Facility, which may adversely affect the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment objectives and strategies.

The Fund may also enter into other transactions that may give rise to a form of leverage including, among others, derivative transactions, loans of portfolio securities, and when-issued, delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions. The Fund may also determine to issue preferred shares or notes to add leverage to its portfolio. Although the Fund uses leverage as discussed below, there can be no assurance that the Fund will continue to utilize financial leverage or that, if utilized, the Fund will be successful during any period in which leverage is employed. Generally speaking, if the Fund can invest the proceeds from financial leverage in portfolio securities that have higher rates of return than the costs of such financial leverage and other expenses of the Fund, then the Common Shareholders would have a net benefit.

The Fund is permitted to obtain leverage using any form or combination of financial leverage instruments, including reverse repurchase agreements, credit facilities such as bank loans or commercial paper, and the issuance of preferred shares or notes. The Fund is permitted to obtain leverage using any form or combination of financial leverage instruments, including reverse repurchase agreements, credit facilities such as bank loans or commercial paper, and the issuance of preferred shares or notes.

The Fund is permitted to have financial leverage representing up to the maximum extent permitted by the 1940 Act. The 1940 Act generally prohibits the Fund from engaging in most forms of leverage representing indebtedness other than preferred shares unless immediately after such incurrence the Fund's total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities (for these purposes, "total net assets") is at least 300% of the aggregate senior securities representing indebtedness (i.e., the use of leverage through senior securities representing indebtedness may not exceed 33 1/3% of the Fund's total net assets (including the proceeds from leverage)). Additionally, under the 1940 Act, the Fund generally may not declare any dividend or other distribution upon any class of its capital shares, or purchase any such capital shares, unless at the time of such declaration or purchase, this asset coverage test is satisfied. In addition, the 1940 Act limits the extent to which the Fund may issue preferred shares plus senior securities representing indebtedness to 50% of the Fund's total assets (less the Fund's liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities). Indebtedness associated with reverse repurchase agreements and similar financing transactions may be aggregated with any other senior securities representing indebtedness for this purpose or be treated as derivatives transactions under the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, depending on the Fund's election under applicable SEC requirements.

The Fund's Board regularly reviews the Fund's use of financial leverage (*i.e.,* the relative costs and benefits of leverage on the Fund's Common Shares) and reviews the alternative means to leverage (*i.e.,* the relative benefits and costs of using reverse repurchase agreements, credit facilities such as bank loans or commercial paper, the issuance of preferred shares or notes, or combinations thereof).

Leverage creates risks for holders of the Common Shares, including the likelihood of greater volatility in the NAV and market price of, and distributions on, the Common Shares. There is a risk that fluctuations in the distribution rates on any outstanding preferred shares or notes may adversely affect the return to the holders of the Common Shares. If the income from the investments purchased with such funds is not sufficient to cover the cost of leverage, the return on the Fund will be less than if leverage had not been used, and therefore the amount

------

available for distribution to Common Shareholders will be reduced. The Fund in its reasonable judgment nevertheless may determine to maintain the Fund's leveraged position if it deems such action to be appropriate in the circumstances.

Changes in the value of the Fund's investment portfolio (including investments bought with the proceeds of leverage) will be borne entirely by the Fund and indirectly by the Fund's Common Shareholders. If there is a net decrease (or increase) in the value of the Fund's investment portfolio, the leverage will decrease (or increase) the NAV to a greater extent than if the Fund were not leveraged. The use of leverage by the Fund may magnify the Fund's losses when there is a decrease in the value of a Fund investment and even totally eliminate the Fund's equity in its portfolio or a Common Shareholder's equity in the Fund. During periods in which the Fund is using leverage, the fees paid by the Fund for investment advisory services will be higher than if the Fund did not use leverage because the investment advisory fees paid will be calculated on the basis of the Fund's Managed Assets, which include proceeds from leverage. As discussed under "Description of Capital Structure," if preferred shares are used, holders of preferred shares will have rights to elect a minimum of two trustees. This voting power may negatively affect Common Shareholders, and the interests of holders of preferred shares may otherwise differ from the interests of Common Shareholders. Any trustees elected by preferred shareholders will represent both Common Shareholders as well as holders of preferred shares. Such trustees may have a conflict of interest when the interests of Common Shareholders differ from those of holders of preferred shares.

Capital raised through leverage will be subject to distribution and/or interest payments, which may exceed the income and appreciation on the assets purchased. The issuance of preferred shares or notes involves expenses associated with the offer and other costs and may limit the Fund's freedom to pay distributions on Common Shares or to engage in other activities. All costs of offering and servicing any of the leverage methods the Fund may use will be borne entirely by the Fund's Common Shareholders. The interests of persons with whom the Fund enters into leverage arrangements (such as bank lenders, note holders and preferred shareholders) will not necessarily be aligned with the interests of the Fund's Common Shareholders and such persons will have claims on the Fund's assets that are senior to those of the Fund's Common Shareholders. Leverage creates an opportunity for a greater return per Common Share, but at the same time it is a speculative technique that will increase the Fund's exposure to capital risk. Unless the income and appreciation, if any, on assets acquired with leverage exceeds the cost of such leverage, the use of leverage will diminish the investment performance of the Fund's Common Shares compared with what it would have been without leverage.

Any lender in connection with a credit facility may impose specific restrictions as a condition to borrowing. The credit facility fees may include, among other things, up front structuring fees and ongoing commitment fees (including fees on amounts undrawn on the facility) in addition to the traditional interest expense on amounts borrowed. The credit facility may involve a lien on the Fund's assets. Similarly, to the extent the Fund issues preferred shares or notes, the Fund currently intends to seek the highest credit rating possible from one or more NRSROs on any preferred shares or notes it issues and the Fund may be subject to fees, covenants and investment restrictions required by the NRSRO as a result. Such covenants and restrictions imposed by a NRSRO or lender may include asset coverage or portfolio composition requirements that are more stringent than those imposed on the Fund by the 1940 Act. It is not anticipated that these covenants or restrictions will significantly impede the Advisers in managing the Fund's portfolio in accordance with its investment objectives and policies. Nonetheless, if these covenants or guidelines are more restrictive than those imposed by the 1940 Act, the Fund may not be able to utilize as much leverage as it otherwise could have, which could reduce the Fund's investment returns. In addition, the Fund expects that any notes or a credit facility would contain covenants that, among other things, will likely impose geographic exposure limitations, credit quality minimums, liquidity minimums, concentration limitations and currency hedging requirements on the Fund. These covenants would also likely limit the Fund's ability to pay distributions in certain circumstances, incur additional debt, change fundamental investment policies and engage in certain transactions, including mergers and consolidations. Such restrictions could cause the Advisers to make different investment decisions than if there were no such restrictions and could limit the ability of the Board and Common Shareholders to change fundamental investment policies.

The Fund must distribute in each taxable year at least 90% of its net investment income (including net interest income and net short-term gain) to qualify for the special tax treatment available to regulated investment companies. The Fund also will be required to distribute annually substantially all of its income and capital gain, if any, to avoid imposition of a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax. Prohibitions on dividends and other distributions on the Fund's Common Shares could impair the Fund's ability to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Code.

------

If the Fund is precluded from making distributions on the Common Shares because of any applicable asset coverage requirements, the terms of the preferred shares (if any) may provide that any amounts so precluded from being distributed, but required to be distributed for the Fund to meet the distribution requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company, will be paid to the holders of the preferred shares as a special distribution. This distribution can be expected to decrease the amount that holders of preferred shares would be entitled to receive upon redemption or liquidation of the shares.

If the Fund failed to qualify as a regulated investment company or failed to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement in any taxable year, the Fund would be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate rates on its taxable income, including its net capital gain, even if such income were distributed to its shareholders, and all distributions out of earnings and profits would be taxed to shareholders as ordinary dividend income. Requalifying as a regulated investment company could subject the Fund to significant tax costs. See "Tax Matters — Taxation of the Fund" in the SAI.

The Fund's willingness to utilize leverage, and the amount of leverage the Fund will assume, will depend on many factors, the most important of which are market conditions and interest rates. Successful use of a leveraging strategy may depend on the Fund's ability to predict correctly interest rates and market movements, and there is no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful during any period in which it is employed. Any leveraging of the Common Shares cannot be achieved until the proceeds resulting from the use of leverage have been invested in accordance with the Fund's investment objectives and policies.

In addition to leverage for investment purposes, the Fund may also borrow money as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes, including the payment of distributions and the settlement of securities transactions which otherwise might require untimely dispositions of Fund investments.

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Effects of Leverage" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**RISK FACTORS**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information Regarding the Fund — Risk Factors" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference. Investors should consider the specific risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. A Prospectus Supplement relating to an offering of the Fund's securities may identify additional risk associated with such offering.

**MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND**

**BOARD OF TRUSTEES**

The management of the Fund, including general supervision of the duties performed by the Adviser, is the responsibility of the Board under the laws of the State of Delaware and the 1940 Act.

**THE ADVISER**

abrdn Investments Limited ("aIL"), a Scottish Company, serves as the adviser to the Fund. aIL's registered address is 10 Queen's Terrace, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom, AB10 1XL. aIL is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of abrdn plc, which manages or administers approximately 632.2 billion in assets as of June 30, 2023. abrdn plc and its affiliates provide asset management and investment solutions for clients and customers worldwide and also have a strong position in the pensions and savings market. abrdn plc, its affiliates and subsidiaries are referred to collectively herein as "abrdn."

In rendering investment advisory services to the Fund, aIL and abrdn Inc. may use the resources of subsidiaries owned by abrdn plc. The abrdn plc affiliates have entered into a memorandum of understanding/personnel sharing procedures pursuant to which investment professionals from the abrdn plc affiliates may render portfolio management, research and/or trade services to US clients of aIL or abrdn Inc.

During periods when the Fund is using leverage, the fee paid to abrdn Inc. (for various services) will be higher than if the Fund did not use leverage because the fees paid are calculated on the basis of the Fund's Managed Assets, which includes the assets purchased through leverage. For the purpose of calculating Managed Assets, derivatives are valued at their market value.

------

**THE SUB-ADVISER**

abrdn Inc. serves as the Sub-Adviser to the Fund pursuant to a sub-advisory agreement between the Fund and abrdn Inc. (the "Advisory Agreement") and is located at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 and is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of abrdn plc.

**ADVISORY AGREEMENTS**

Under an advisory agreement, the Adviser receives an annual fee, payable monthly, in an amount equal to 1.25% of the Fund's average daily Managed Assets, which means the total assets of the Fund (including any assets attributable to money borrowed for investment purposes, including proceeds from (and assets subject to) reverse repurchase agreements, any credit facility and any issuance of preferred shares or notes) minus the sum of the Fund's accrued liabilities (other than Fund liabilities incurred for the purpose of leverage). For its services to the Fund, under a sub-advisory agreement with the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser receives a fee from the Adviser equal to 40% of the advisory fee received by the Adviser from the Fund after fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any.

The Adviser has contractually agreed to reimburse the Fund so that total other expenses (as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares of the Fund) are limited to 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets for twelve months following effectiveness of the Fund's Registration Statement and then 0.35% of the average daily net assets of the Fund on an annualized basis until June 30, 2025 (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage fees, short sale dividend and interest expenses and non-routine expenses). The Fund may repay any such reimbursement from the Adviser, within three years of the reimbursement, provided that the following requirements are met: the reimbursements do not cause the Fund to exceed the lesser of the applicable expense limitation in the contract at the time the fees were limited or expenses are paid or the applicable expense limitation in effect at the time the expenses are being recouped by the Adviser.

The Fund pays all of its other expenses including, among others, legal fees and expenses of counsel to the Fund and the Fund's independent trustees; insurance (including trustees' and officers' errors and omissions insurance); auditing and accounting expenses; taxes and governmental fees; listing fees; dues and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; fees and expenses of the Fund's custodians, administrators, transfer agents, registrars and other service providers; expenses for portfolio pricing services by a pricing agent, if any; other expenses in connection with the issuance, offering and underwriting of shares or debt instruments issued by the Fund or with the securing of any credit facility or other loans for the Fund; expenses relating to investor and public relations; expenses of registering or qualifying securities of the Fund for public sale; brokerage commissions and other costs of acquiring or disposing of any portfolio holding of the Fund; expenses of preparation and distribution of reports, notices and dividends to shareholders; expenses of the dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan (except for brokerage expenses paid by participants in such plan); compensation and expenses of trustees; costs of stationery; any litigation expenses; and costs of shareholders' and other meetings.

Effective December 1, 2017, aIL became the Fund's investment adviser and abrdn Inc. became the Fund's Sub-Adviser. Prior to December 1, 2017, the Fund was managed by another, unaffiliated investment adviser.

**THE ADMINISTRATOR**

abrdn Inc., located at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, serves as administrator to the Fund. Under the administration agreement, abrdn Inc. is generally responsible for managing the administrative affairs of the Fund.

For administration related services, abrdn Inc. is entitled to receive a fee that is computed monthly and paid quarterly at an annual rate of 0.125% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $1 billion, 0.10% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets in between $1 billion and $2 billion and 0.075% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets in excess of $2 billion, plus certain out-of-pocket expenses.

During periods when the Fund is using leverage, the fee paid to abrdn Inc. (for various services) will be higher than if the Fund did not use leverage because the fees paid are calculated on the basis of the Fund's Managed Assets, which includes the assets purchased through leverage. For the purpose of calculating Managed Assets, derivatives are valued at their market value.

State Street Bank and Trust Company serves as sub-administrator of the Fund and is paid by abrdn Inc. out of the fees it receives as the Fund's administrator.

------

**Investor Relations**

Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement approved by the Fund's Board, abrdn Inc. provides and pays third parties to provide investor relations services to the Fund and certain other funds advised by the Adviser or its affiliates as part of an Investor Relations Program. Under the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement, the Fund owes a portion of the fees related to the Investor Relations Program (the "Fund's Portion"). However, investor relations services fees are limited by abrdn Inc. so that the Fund will only pay up to an annual rate of 0.05% of the Fund's average weekly net assets. Any difference between the capped rate of 0.05% of the Fund's average weekly net assets and the Fund's Portion is paid for by abrdn Inc.

Pursuant to the terms of the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement, abrdn Inc. (or third parties engaged by abrdn Inc.), among other things, provides objective and timely information to stockholders based on publicly available information; provides information efficiently through the use of technology while offering stockholders immediate access to knowledgeable investor relations representatives; develops and maintains effective communications with investment professionals from a wide variety of firms; creates and maintains investor relations communication materials such as fund manager interviews, films and webcasts, publishes white papers, magazine articles and other relevant materials discussing the Fund's investment results, portfolio positioning and outlook; develops and maintains effective communications with large institutional shareholders; responds to specific shareholder questions; and reports activities and results to the Board and management detailing insight into general shareholder sentiment.

**LEGAL PROCEEDINGS**

As of the date of this Prospectus, the Fund and the Advisers are not currently parties to any material legal proceedings.

**NET ASSET VALUE OF COMMON SHARES**

The information contained under the heading "Notes to Financial Statements — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — Security Valuation" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**DISTRIBUTIONS**

The information contained under the heading "Notes to Financial Statements — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — Distributions" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**TAX MATTERS**

The following is (i) a description of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of owning and disposing of Common Stock and (ii) a description of some of the important U.S. federal income tax considerations affecting the Fund. The discussion below provides general tax information related to an investment in Common Stock, but this discussion does not purport to be a complete description of the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in such securities. It is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and United States Treasury regulations and administrative pronouncements, all as of the date hereof, any of which is subject to change or differing interpretation, possibly with retroactive effect. In addition, it does not describe all of the tax consequences that may be relevant in light of a Common Stockholder's particular circumstances, including alternative minimum tax consequences and tax consequences applicable to Common Stockholders subject to special tax rules, such as certain financial institutions; dealers or traders in securities who use a mark-to-market method of tax accounting; persons holding Common Stock as part of a hedging transaction, wash sale, conversion transaction or integrated transaction or persons entering into a constructive sale with respect to the Common Stock; entities classified as partnerships or other pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes; real estate investment trusts; insurance companies; U.S. holders (as defined below) whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar; or tax-exempt entities, including "individual retirement accounts" or "Roth IRAs." Unless otherwise noted, the following discussion applies only to a Common Stockholder that holds Common Stock as a capital asset and is a U.S. holder. A "U.S. holder" is a holder who, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is a beneficial owner of Common Stock and is (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States; (ii) a corporation, or other entity taxable as a corporation, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States, any state therein or the District of Columbia; (iii) an estate

------

the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or (iv) a trust if it (x) is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (y) has a valid election in effect under applicable United States Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person. Tax laws are complex and often change, and Common Stockholders should consult their tax advisors about the U.S. federal, state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences of an investment in the Fund. For more information, please see the section of the SAI entitled "Tax Matters."

**THE FUND**

The Fund has elected to be treated as, and intends to continue to qualify in each taxable year as, a regulated investment company (a "RIC") under Subchapter M of the Code. Assuming the Fund so qualifies and satisfies certain distribution requirements, the Fund generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on income distributed (including amounts that are reinvested pursuant to the Plan) in a timely manner to its shareholders in the form of dividends or capital gain distributions. If the Fund retains any net capital gains for reinvestment, it may elect to treat such capital gains as having been distributed to its shareholders. If the Fund makes such an election, each Common Shareholder will be required to report its share of such undistributed net capital gain as long-term capital gain and will be entitled to claim its share of the U.S. federal income taxes paid by the Fund on such undistributed net capital gain as a credit against its own U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, and to claim a refund on a properly filed U.S. federal income tax return to the extent that the credit exceeds such liability. In addition, each Common Shareholder will be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis of its Common Shares by the difference between its share of such undistributed net capital gain and the related credit. There can be no assurance that the Fund will make this election if it retains all or a portion of its net capital gain for a taxable year.

To qualify as a RIC for any taxable year, the Fund must, among other things, satisfy both an income test and an asset test for such taxable year. Specifically, (i) at least 90% of the Fund's gross income for such taxable year must consist of dividends; interest; payments with respect to certain securities loans; gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies; other income (including, but not limited to, gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies; and net income derived from interests in "qualified publicly traded partnerships" (such income, "Qualifying RIC Income") and (ii) the Fund's holdings must be diversified so that, at the end of each quarter of such taxable year, (a) at least 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets is represented by cash and cash items, securities of other RICs, U.S. government securities 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 Fund's total assets and not greater than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer and (b) not more than 25% of the value of the Fund's total assets is invested (x) in securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or of two or more issuers that the Fund controls and that are engaged in the same, similar or related trades or businesses or (y) in the securities of one or more "qualified publicly traded partnerships." The Fund's share of income derived from a partnership other than a "qualified publicly traded partnership" will be treated as Qualifying RIC Income only to the extent that such income would have constituted Qualifying RIC Income if derived directly by the Fund. A "qualified publicly traded partnership" is generally defined as an entity that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes if (i) interests in such entity are traded on an established securities market or are readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof and (ii) less than 90% of its gross income for the relevant taxable year consists of Qualifying RIC Income. The Code provides that the Treasury Department may by regulation exclude from Qualifying RIC Income foreign currency gains that are not directly related to the RIC's principal business of investing in stock or securities (or options and futures with respect to stock or securities). The Fund anticipates that, in general, its foreign currency gains will be directly related to its principal business of investing in stock and securities.

**OWNING AND DISPOSING OF COMMON SHARES**

Distributions of the Fund's ordinary income and net short-term capital gains will generally be taxable to the Common Shareholders as ordinary income to the extent such distributions are paid out of the Fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Distributions or deemed distributions, if any, of net capital gains will be taxable as long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time the Common Shareholder has owned Common Shares. Distributions made to a non-corporate Common Shareholder out of "qualified dividend income," if any, received by the Fund will be subject to tax at reduced maximum rates, provided that the Common Shareholder meets certain holding period and other requirements with respect to its Common Shares. A distribution of an amount in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated

------

earnings and profits will be treated by a Common Shareholder as a return of capital that will be applied against and reduce the Common Shareholder's basis in its Common Shares. To the extent that the amount of any such distribution exceeds the Common Shareholder's basis in its Common Shares, the excess will be treated as gain from a sale or exchange of the Common Shares. Distributions will be treated in the manner described above regardless of whether such distributions are paid in cash or invested in additional Common Shares pursuant to the Plan.

A Common Shareholder may recognize a capital gain or loss on the sale or other disposition of Common Shares. The amount of the gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount realized and the Common Shareholder's adjusted tax basis in the relevant Common Shares. Such gain or loss generally will be a long-term gain or loss if the Common Shareholder's holding period for such Common Shares is more than one (1) year. Under current law, net capital gains recognized by non-corporate Common Shareholders are generally subject to reduced maximum rates. Losses realized by a Common Shareholder on the sale or exchange of Common Shares held for six months or less will be treated as long-term capital losses to the extent of any distribution of long-term capital gain received (or deemed received, as discussed above) with respect to such Common Shares. In addition, no loss will be allowed on a sale or other disposition of Common Shares if the Common Shareholder acquires (including pursuant to the Plan) Common Shares within 30 days before or after the disposition. In such a case, the basis of the securities acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.

An additional 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on certain net investment income (including ordinary dividends and capital gain distributions received from the Fund and net gains from redemptions or other taxable dispositions of Fund Common Shares) of U.S. individuals, estates and trusts to the extent that such person's "modified adjusted gross income" (in the case of an individual) or "adjusted gross income" (in the case of an estate or trust) exceeds certain threshold amounts.

**NON-U.S. COMMON SHAREHOLDERS**

If a Common Shareholder is a nonresident alien, a foreign trust or estate or a foreign corporation, as defined for U.S. federal income tax purposes, (a "non-U.S. Common Shareholder") whose ownership of Common Shares is not "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business, ordinary income dividends distributed to such non-U.S. Common Shareholder by the Fund will generally be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or a lower rate under an applicable treaty). Net capital gain dividends distributed by the Fund to a non-U.S. Common Shareholder whose ownership of Common Shares is not "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business and who is not an individual present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year will generally not be subject to U.S. withholding tax. For a more detailed discussion of the tax consequences of the ownership of Common Shares by a non-U.S. Common Shareholder, please see the discussion in the SAI under "Tax Matters — Non-U.S. Common Shareholders."

**BACKUP WITHHOLDING**

If a Common Stockholder does not provide the applicable payor with its correct taxpayer identification number and any required certifications, such Common Stockholder may be subject to backup withholding (currently, at a rate of 24%) on the distributions it receives (or is deemed to receive) from the Fund. Backup withholding will not, however, be applied to payments that have been subject to the 30% withholding tax applicable to non-U.S. Common Stockholders.

**FOREIGN ACCOUNT TAX COMPLIANCE ACT**

In addition, the Fund is required to withhold U.S. tax (at a 30% rate) on payments of taxable dividends made to certain non-U.S. entities that fail to comply (or be deemed compliant) with extensive reporting and withholding requirements designed to inform the U.S. Department of the Treasury of U.S.-owned foreign investment accounts. To avoid withholding, foreign financial institutions will need to (i) enter into agreements with the IRS that state that they will provide the IRS information, including the names, addresses and taxpayer identification numbers of direct and indirect U.S. account holders, comply with due diligence procedures with respect to the identification of U.S. accounts, report to the IRS certain information with respect to U.S. accounts maintained, agree to withhold tax on certain payments made to non-compliant foreign financial institutions or to account holders who fail to provide the required information, and determine certain other information as to their account holders, or (ii) in the event that an applicable intergovernmental agreement and implementing legislation are adopted, provide local revenue authorities with similar account holder information. Other foreign entities will need to either provide the name, address, and taxpayer identification number of each substantial U.S. owner or

------

certifications of no substantial U.S. ownership unless certain exceptions apply. Under some circumstances, a foreign stockholder may be eligible for refunds or credits of such taxes.

**CLOSED-END FUND STRUCTURE**

The Fund is a closed-end management investment company. 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 NAV 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 objectives and policies. In addition, in comparison to open-end funds, closed-end funds have greater flexibility in the employment of financial leverage and in the ability to make certain types of investments, including investments in illiquid securities.

However, shares of closed-end funds frequently trade at a discount from their NAV. In recognition of the possibility that the Common Shares might trade at a discount to NAV and that any such discount may not be in the interest of Common Shareholders, the Board, in consultation with the Adviser, from time to time may review possible actions to reduce any such discount. On June 12, 2018, the Board approved an open market repurchase and discount management policy (the "Program") for the Fund. The Program allows the Fund to purchase, in the open market, its outstanding common shares, with the amount and timing of any repurchase determined at the discretion of the Fund's investment adviser. Such purchases may be made opportunistically at certain discounts to net asset value per share in the reasonable judgment of management based on historical discount levels and current market conditions. The Fund reports repurchase activity on the Fund's website on a monthly basis. On a quarterly basis, the Fund's Board will receive information on any transactions made pursuant to this policy during the prior quarter and management will post the number of shares repurchased on the Fund's website on a monthly basis. Under the terms of the Program, the Fund is permitted to repurchase up to 10% of its outstanding shares of common stock in the open market during any 12 month period. There can be no assurance, however, that the Board 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 NAV. The Board might also consider the conversion of the Fund to an open-end mutual fund, which would also require a vote of the shareholders of the Fund. Conversion of the Fund to an open-end mutual fund would require approval by both (i) a majority of the Board and (ii) a vote of shareholders representing the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund at a shareholder meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities are present in person or by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund.

The Fund has no limitation on investments in illiquid securities (closed-end funds are not required to have any such limitation) and may invest all or a portion of its assets in illiquid securities. In order to meet redemptions upon request by shareholders, open-end funds typically cannot have more than 15% of their net assets in illiquid securities. Thus, if the Fund were to convert to an open-end fund, it would have to adopt a limitation on illiquid securities and may need to revise its investment objectives, strategies and policies. The composition of the Fund's portfolio and/or its investment policies could prohibit the Fund from complying with regulations of the SEC applicable to open-end management investment funds absent significant changes in portfolio holdings, including with respect to certain illiquid securities, and investment policies. The Board believes, however, that the closed-end structure is desirable, given the Fund's investment objectives, strategies and policies. Investors should assume, therefore, that it is highly unlikely that the Board would vote to convert the Fund to an open-end investment company. Investors should note that the issuance of preferred shares to provide investment leverage could make a conversion to an open-end fund more difficult because of the voting rights of preferred shareholders, the costs of redeeming preferred shares and other factors. See "Description of Capital Structure."

**DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT AND OPTIONAL CASH PURCHASE PLAN**

The information contained under the heading "Dividend Reinvestment and Optional Cash Purchase Plan" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

------

**DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE**

The Fund is a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware pursuant to the Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated as of December 9, 2010. The Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per common share. The Fund intends to hold annual meetings of shareholders so long as the Common Shares are listed on a national securities exchange and such meetings are required as a condition to such listing.

**GENERAL**

Set forth below is information with respect to the Fund's outstanding securities as of May 6, 2024:

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Title of Class** | **Amount<br>Authorized** | **Amount<br>Authorized** | **Amount Held by<br>the Fund or for its<br>Account** | **Amount Held by<br>the Fund or for its<br>Account** | **Amount Outstanding<br>Exclusive of Common<br>Shares Held by the Fund<br>or for its Own Account** | **Amount Outstanding<br>Exclusive of Common<br>Shares Held by the Fund<br>or for its Own Account** |
| Common Shares |  | Unlimited |  | 0 |  | 52,109,950 |
| Preferred Shares |  | 1,600,000 |  | 0 |  | 1,600,000 |

---

No shareholder may maintain a derivative action on behalf of the Fund unless holders of at least 10% of the outstanding shares join in the bringing of such action. Shareholders may have to undertake to reimburse the Fund for the expense of any advisors retained by the Trustees in considering the merits of the shareholder request in the event that the Trustees determine not to bring such action. These requirements will not apply to claims brought under the federal securities laws.

**COMMON SHARES**

The Agreement and Declaration of Trust permits the Fund to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional Common Shares. Each Common Share represents an equal proportionate interest in the assets of the Fund with each other Common Share in the Fund. Common Shareholders will be entitled to the payment of distributions when, as and if declared by the Board. The 1940 Act or the terms of any borrowings or preferred shares may limit the payment of distributions to the Common Shareholders. Each whole Common Share shall be entitled to one (1) vote as to matters on which it is entitled to vote pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust. Upon liquidation of the Fund, after paying or adequately providing for the payment of all claims and obligations of the Fund and the liquidation preference with respect to any outstanding preferred shares, and (upon receipt of such releases, indemnities and refunding agreements as they deem necessary for their protection), the trustees may distribute the remaining assets of the Fund among the holders of the Common Shares. Common Shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitation of personal liability extended to common shareholders of private corporations for profit organized under the Delaware General Corporation Law.

In general, when there are any borrowings, including reverse repurchase agreements that are counted as indebtedness, or preferred shares and/or notes outstanding, the Fund may not be permitted to declare any cash distribution on its Common Shares, unless at the time of such declaration, (i) all accrued distributions on preferred shares or accrued interest on borrowings have been paid and (ii) the value of the Fund's total assets (determined after deducting the amount of such distribution), less all liabilities and indebtedness of the Fund not represented by senior securities, is at least 300% of the aggregate amount of such securities representing indebtedness and at least 200% of the aggregate amount of securities representing indebtedness plus the aggregate liquidation value of the outstanding preferred shares (expected to equal the aggregate original purchase price of the outstanding preferred shares plus the applicable redemption premium, if any, together with any accrued and unpaid distributions thereon, whether or not earned or declared and on a cumulative basis). In addition to the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Fund may be required to comply with other asset coverage requirements as a condition of the Fund obtaining a rating of the preferred shares or notes from a NRSRO. These requirements may include an asset coverage test more stringent than under the 1940 Act. This limitation on the Fund's ability to make distributions on its Common Shares could in certain circumstances impair the ability of the Fund to maintain its qualification for taxation as a regulated investment company for federal income tax purposes. The Fund intends, however, to the extent possible to purchase or redeem preferred shares or notes or reduce borrowings from time to time to maintain compliance with such asset coverage requirements and may pay special distributions to the holders of the preferred shares in certain circumstances in connection with any such impairment of the Fund's status as a regulated investment company. See "Distributions." Depending on the timing of any such redemption or repayment, the Fund may be required to pay a premium in addition to the liquidation preference of the preferred shares to the holders thereof.

------

The Fund has no present intention of offering additional Common Shares, except as described herein. Other offerings of its Common Shares, if made, will require approval of the Board. Any additional offering will not be sold at a price per Common Share below the then current NAV (exclusive of underwriting discounts and commissions) except in connection with an offering to existing Common Shareholders or with the consent of a majority of the Fund's outstanding Common Shareholders. The Common Shares have no preemptive rights.

The Fund currently issues its Common Shares without certificates.

The trading or "ticker" symbol of the Common Shares on the NYSE is "ACP."

**OPEN MARKET REPURCHASE PROGRAM**

The Fund's Board approved an open market repurchase and discount management policy (the "Program"). The Program allows the Fund to purchase, in the open market, its outstanding common shares, with the amount and timing of any repurchase determined at the discretion of the Fund's investment adviser. Such purchases may be made opportunistically at certain discounts to NAV per share in the reasonable judgment of management based on historical discount levels and current market conditions.

On a quarterly basis, the Fund's Board will receive information on any transactions made pursuant to this policy during the prior quarter and management will post the number of shares repurchased on the Fund's website on a monthly basis. Under the terms of the Program, the Fund is permitted to repurchase up to 10% of its outstanding shares of common stock in the open market during any 12 month period.

**PREFERRED SHARES**

On May 3, 2021, the Fund entered into an underwriting agreement by and among the Fund, the aIL and Sub-Adviser, and UBS Securities LLC ("UBS"), as the underwriter representative, in connection with the issuance and sale of 1,600,000 shares of the Fund's 5.250% Series A Perpetual Preferred Shares, par value $0.001 per share (the "Preferred Shares") at a price to the public of $25.00 per Common Share (the "Preferred Shares Offering").

The Preferred Shares Offering was made pursuant to a prospectus supplement, dated May 3, 2021 and the accompanying prospectus, dated April 27, 2021.

In connection with the Preferred Shares Offering, the Fund entered into an amendment, effective as of May 10, 2021, to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement with Computershare Trust Company, N.A. and Computershare Inc. to provide services with respect to the Preferred Shares.

The Preferred Shares Offering, priced at $25 per share, resulted in net proceeds to the Fund of approximately $38.2 million after payment of underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by the Fund. The Fund applied to list the Preferred Shares on the NYSE under the ticker symbol "ACP PRA". The Preferred Shares will have a liquidation preference of $25.00 per share, plus accumulated and unpaid dividends. The Preferred Shares will rank senior to the Fund's Common Shares in priority of payment of dividends and as to the distribution of assets upon dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the Fund's affairs; equal in priority with all other future series of preferred shares the Fund may issue as to priority of payment of dividends and as to distributions of assets upon dissolution, liquidation or the winding-up of the Fund's affairs; and subordinate in right of payment to amounts owed under the Fund's existing Credit Facility, and to the holder of any future senior Indebtedness, which may be issued without the vote or consent of preferred shareholders.

Holders of the Series A Perpetual Preferred Shares are entitled to receive quarterly cumulative cash dividend payments at a rate of 5.250%. Dividends and distributions on the Preferred Shares will accumulate from the date of their original issue. Dividends and distributions will be paid quarterly on March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31 in each year (or, in each case, if such date is not a business day, the next succeeding business day), commencing on June 30, 2021. Distributions are accrued daily and paid quarterly and are presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as a dividend payable to preferred shareholders.

If the Fund fails to have asset coverage of at least 200% with respect to its preferred shares of beneficial interest (including Preferred Shares) (collectively, "preferred shares") as of the close of business on the last business day of each calendar quarter, and such failure is not cured as of the close of business on the date that is 30 calendar days following such business day (the "Asset Coverage Cure Date"), the Fund will fix a redemption date and proceed to redeem the number of preferred shares, including Preferred Shares, as described below at (in the case of Preferred Shares) a price per share equal to the $25.00 per share liquidation preference plus

------

accumulated but unpaid dividends and distributions thereon (whether or not earned or declared but excluding interest thereon) through the date fixed for redemption by the Board.

Prior to June 30, 2026, the Preferred Shares are not subject to optional redemption by the Fund unless the redemption is necessary, in the judgment of the Board, to maintain the Fund's status as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. On or after June 30, 2026 (any such date, an "Optional Redemption Date"), the Fund may redeem in whole or from time to time in part outstanding Preferred Shares at a redemption price per share equal to the $25.00 per share liquidation preference plus an amount equal to all unpaid dividends and distributions accumulated through the Optional Redemption Date (whether or not earned or declared by the Fund, but excluding interest thereon).

Except for matters that do not require the vote of holders of Preferred Shares under the 1940 Act and except as otherwise provided in the Fund's Governing Documents, or as otherwise required by applicable law, each holder of Preferred Shares will be entitled to one vote for each Preferred Share held by such holder on each matter submitted to a vote of shareholders of the Fund. Except as otherwise provided herein or in the Statement of Preferences, the holders of outstanding preferred shares, including the Preferred Shares, will vote together with holders of the Fund's Common Shares as a single class.

**NOTES**

The Fund does not currently have any notes outstanding.

The Agreement and Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of debt securities or notes, with rights as determined by the Board, by action of the Board without the approval of the Common Shareholders. To the extent the Trustees authorize the issuance of any notes, the Trustees are also permitted to amend or supplement the Agreement and Declaration of Trust, as they deem appropriate. Any such amendment or supplement may set forth the rights, preferences, powers and privileges of such notes.

Under the 1940 Act, the Fund may only issue one class of senior securities representing indebtedness, which in the aggregate must have asset coverage immediately after the time of issuance of at least 300%. So long as notes are outstanding, additional debt securities must rank on a parity with notes with respect to the payment of interest and upon the distribution of the Fund's assets.

A Prospectus Supplement relating to any notes will include specific terms relating to the offering. The terms to be stated in a Prospectus Supplement will include the following:

• the form and title of the security;

• the aggregate principal amount of the securities;

• the interest rate of the securities;

• whether the interest rate for the securities will be determined by auction or remarketing;

• the maturity dates on which the principal of the securities will be payable;

• the frequency with which auctions or remarketings, if any, will be held;

• any changes to or additional events of default or covenants;

• any minimum period prior to which the securities may not be called;

• any optional or mandatory call or redemption provisions;

• the credit rating of the notes;

• if applicable, a discussion of the material U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to the issuance of the notes; and

• any other terms of the securities.

The Prospectus Supplement will describe the interest payment provisions relating to notes. Interest on notes will be payable when due as described in the related Prospectus Supplement. If the Fund does not pay interest when due, it will trigger an event of default and the Fund will be restricted from declaring dividends and making other distributions with respect to its common shares and preferred shares.

------

Under the requirements of the 1940 Act, immediately after issuing any notes the value of the Fund's total assets, less certain ordinary course liabilities, must equal or exceed 300% of the amount of the notes outstanding. Other types of borrowings also may result in the Fund being subject to similar covenants in credit agreements.

Additionally, the 1940 Act requires that the Fund prohibit the declaration of any dividend or distribution (other than a dividend or distribution paid in the Fund's common or preferred shares or in options, warrants or rights to subscribe for or purchase the Fund's common or preferred shares) in respect of the Fund's common or preferred shares, or call for redemption, redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire for consideration any such fund common or preferred shares, unless the Fund's notes have asset coverage of at least 300% (200% in the case of a dividend or distribution on preferred shares) after deducting the amount of such dividend, distribution, or acquisition price, as the case may be. These 1940 Act requirements do not apply to any promissory note or other evidence 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; however, any such borrowings may result in the Fund being subject to similar covenants in credit agreements. Moreover, the Indenture related to the notes could contain provisions more restrictive than those required by the 1940 Act, and any such provisions would be described in the related Prospectus Supplement.

Upon the occurrence and continuance of an event of default, the holders of a majority in principal amount of a series of outstanding notes or the trustee will be able to declare the principal amount of that series of notes immediately due and payable upon written notice to the Fund. A default that relates only to one series of notes does not affect any other series and the holders of such other series of notes will not be entitled to receive notice of such a default under the Indenture. Upon an event of default relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar laws, acceleration of maturity will occur automatically with respect to all series. At any time after a declaration of acceleration with respect to a series of notes has been made, and before a judgment or decree for payment of the money due has been obtained, the holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding notes of that series, by written notice to the Fund and the trustee, may rescind and annul the declaration of acceleration and its consequences if all events of default with respect to that series of notes, other than the non-payment of the principal of that series of notes which has become due solely by such declaration of acceleration, have been cured or waived and other conditions have been met.

In the event of (a) any insolvency or bankruptcy case or proceeding, or any receivership, liquidation, reorganization or other similar case or proceeding in connection therewith, relative to the Fund or to the Fund's creditors, as such, or to the Fund's assets, or (b) any liquidation, dissolution or other winding up of the Fund, whether voluntary or involuntary and whether or not involving insolvency or bankruptcy, or (c) any assignment for the benefit of creditors or any other marshalling of assets and liabilities of the Fund, then (after any payments with respect to any secured creditor of the Fund outstanding at such time) and in any such event the holders of notes shall be entitled to receive payment in full of all amounts due or to become due on or in respect of all notes (including any interest accruing thereon after the commencement of any such case or proceeding), or provision shall be made for such payment in cash or cash equivalents or otherwise in a manner satisfactory to the holders of the notes, before the holders of any of the Fund's common or preferred shares are entitled to receive any payment on account of any redemption proceeds, liquidation preference or dividends from such shares. The holders of notes shall be entitled to receive, for application to the payment thereof, any payment or distribution of any kind or character, whether in cash, property or securities, including any such payment or distribution which may be payable or deliverable by reason of the payment of any other indebtedness of the Fund being subordinated to the payment of the notes, which may be payable or deliverable in respect of the notes in any such case, proceeding, dissolution, liquidation or other winding up event.

Unsecured creditors may include, without limitation, service providers including the Advisers, Custodian, administrator, auction agent, broker-dealers and the trustee, pursuant to the terms of various contracts with the Fund. Secured creditors may include without limitation parties entering into any interest rate swap, floor or cap transactions, or other similar transactions with the Fund that create liens, pledges, charges, security interests, security agreements or other encumbrances on the Fund's assets.

A consolidation, reorganization or merger of the Fund with or into any other company, or a sale, lease or exchange of all or substantially all of the Fund's assets in consideration for the issuance of equity securities of another company shall not be deemed to be a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Fund.

The notes have no voting rights, except as mentioned below and to the extent required by law or as otherwise provided in the Indenture relating to the acceleration of maturity upon the occurrence and continuance of an event of default. In connection with the notes or certain other borrowings (if any), the 1940 Act does in certain

------

circumstances grant to the note holders or lenders certain voting rights. The 1940 Act requires that provision is made either (i) that, if on the last business day of each of twelve consecutive calendar months such notes shall have an asset coverage of less than 100%, the holders of such notes voting as a class shall be entitled to elect at least a majority of the members of the Fund's Trustees, such voting right to continue until such notes shall have an asset coverage of 110% or more on the last business day of each of three consecutive calendar months, or (ii) that, if on the last business day of each of twenty-four consecutive calendar months such notes shall have an asset coverage of less than 100%, an event of default shall be deemed to have occurred. It is expected that, unless otherwise stated in the related Prospectus Supplement, provision will be made that, if on the last business day of each of twenty-four consecutive calendar months such notes shall have an asset coverage of less than 100%, an event of default shall be deemed to have occurred. These 1940 Act requirements do not apply to any promissory note or other evidence 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; however, any such borrowings may result in the Fund being subject to similar covenants in credit agreements. As reflected above, the Indenture relating to the notes may also grant to the note holders voting rights relating to the acceleration of maturity upon the occurrence and continuance of an event of default, and any such rights would be described in the related Prospectus Supplement.

**DESCRIPTION OF SUBSCRIPTION RIGHTS**

The Fund may issue subscription rights to holders of Common Shares to purchase Common 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, the Fund would distribute certificates evidencing the subscription rights and a Prospectus Supplement to the Fund's common shareholders as of the record date that the Fund sets for determining the shareholders eligible to receive subscription rights in such subscription rights offering. For complete 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 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 Fund 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 Right**

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 Fund would issue, as soon as practicable, the shares purchased as a result of such exercise. To the extent permissible under applicable law, the Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund 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 1/3% increase in the Fund's Common Shares outstanding.

*Additional Information on the Transferability of Rights.* The staff of the SEC has interpreted the 1940 Act as not requiring shareholder approval of a transferable rights offering to purchase Common Shares at a price below the then current net asset value so long as certain conditions are met, including: (i) a good faith determination by a fund's board that such offering would result in a net benefit to existing shareholders; (ii) the offering fully protects shareholders' preemptive rights and does not discriminate among shareholders (except for the possible effect of not offering fractional Rights); (iii) management uses its best efforts to ensure an adequate trading market in the rights for use by shareholders who do not exercise such rights; and (iv) the ratio of a transferable rights offering does not exceed one new share for each three rights held.

**REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS, REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS AND DERIVATIVES**

The Fund may engage in repurchase agreements with broker-dealers, banks and other financial institutions to earn incremental income on temporarily available cash which would otherwise be uninvested. A repurchase agreement is a short-term investment in which the purchaser (i.e., the Fund) acquires ownership of a security and the seller agrees to repurchase the obligation at a future time and set price, thereby determining the yield during the holding period. Repurchase agreements involve certain risks in the event of default by the other party. The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with broker-dealers, banks and other financial institutions deemed to be creditworthy.

Repurchase agreements are required to be fully collateralized by the underlying securities and are considered to be loans under the 1940 Act. The Fund pays for such securities only upon physical delivery or evidence of book entry transfer to the account of a custodian or bank acting as agent. The seller under a repurchase agreement will be required to maintain the value of the underlying collateral securities marked-to-market daily at not less than the repurchase price. The underlying securities (normally securities of the U.S. government and its agencies or instrumentalities) may have maturity dates exceeding one (1) year.

The Fund may borrow through entering into reverse repurchase agreements under which the Fund sells portfolio investments to financial institutions such as banks and broker-dealers and generally agrees to repurchase

------

them at a mutually agreed future date and price. Generally, the effect of a reverse repurchase agreement is that, during the term of the agreement, the Fund can obtain and reinvest all or most of the cash value of the portfolio investment it sold under the agreement and still be entitled to the returns associated with such portfolio investment — thereby resulting in a transaction similar to a borrowing and giving rise to leverage for the Fund. The Fund 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.

In the event the buyer of securities under a reverse repurchase agreement files for bankruptcy or becomes insolvent, the Fund's use of the proceeds of the agreement may be restricted pending a determination by the other party, or its trustee or receiver, whether to enforce the Fund's obligation to repurchase the securities.

The Fund also expects to enter into other transactions that may give rise to a form of leverage including, among others, swaps, futures and forward contracts, options and other derivative transactions. However, these transactions may represent a form of economic leverage and will create risks. Further, the Fund may incur losses on such transactions (including the entire amount of the Fund's investment in such transaction) even if they are covered.

**CREDIT FACILITY AND NOTES**

The Fund utilizes leverage through borrowings and may enter into definitive agreements with respect to a credit facility or other borrowing program. The Fund may negotiate with commercial banks to arrange a credit facility pursuant to which the Fund would expect to be entitled to borrow an amount equal to approximately one-third (1/3) of the Fund's total assets (inclusive of the amount borrowed). Any such borrowings would constitute financial leverage. Such a credit facility is not expected to be convertible into any other securities of the Fund, outstanding amounts are expected to be pre-payable by the Fund prior to final maturity without significant penalty and there are not expected to be any sinking fund or mandatory retirement provisions. Outstanding amounts would be payable at maturity or such earlier times as required by the agreement. The Fund may be required to prepay outstanding amounts under the credit facility or incur a penalty rate of interest upon the occurrence of certain events of default. The Fund would be expected to indemnify the lenders under the credit facility against liabilities they may incur in connection with the credit facility. The Fund is currently a party to the Credit Facility. The Credit Facility was amended on November 21, 2023. Although the Fund currently intends to renew the Credit Facility, prior to its expiration date there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to do so or do so on terms similar to the current Credit Facility, which may adversely affect the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment objectives and strategies.

The Fund may also obtain leverage through the issuance of notes representing indebtedness. Such notes are not expected to be convertible into any other securities of the Fund. Outstanding amounts would be payable at maturity or such earlier times as required by the terms of the notes. The Fund may be required to prepay outstanding amounts under the notes or incur a penalty rate of interest upon the occurrence of certain events of default.

The Fund may use leverage to the maximum extent permitted by the 1940 Act. Under the 1940 Act, the Fund is not permitted to incur indebtedness, including through the issuance of notes or other debt securities, unless immediately thereafter the total asset value of the Fund's portfolio is at least 300% of the aggregate amount of the outstanding indebtedness (*i.e.,* such aggregate amount may not exceed 33 1/3 % of the Fund's total assets). In addition, the Fund is not permitted to declare any cash distribution on its Common Shares unless, at the time of such declaration, the NAV of the Fund's portfolio (determined after deducting the amount of such distribution) is at least 300% of such aggregate amount. If the Fund issues notes, borrows money or enters into a credit facility, the Fund intends, to the extent possible, to retire outstanding debt, from time to time, to maintain coverage of any outstanding indebtedness of at least 300%.

The Fund may seek the highest credit rating possible from one or more NRSROs on any notes that the Fund issues. In such a case, the Fund intends that, as long as notes are outstanding, the composition of its portfolio will reflect guidelines established by such NRSRO. Although, as of the date hereof, no NRSRO has established guidelines relating to the Fund's notes, based on previous guidelines established by NRSROs for the securities of other issuers, the Fund anticipates that the guidelines with respect to the notes will establish a set of tests for portfolio composition and asset coverage that supplement (and in some cases are more restrictive than) the applicable requirements under the 1940 Act. Although, at this time, no assurance can be given as to the nature or extent of the guidelines which may be imposed in connection with obtaining a rating of the notes, the Fund currently anticipates that such guidelines will include asset coverage requirements which are more restrictive than

------

those under the 1940 Act, restrictions on certain portfolio investments and investment practices, requirements that the Fund maintain a portion of its assets in short-term, high-quality investments and certain mandatory redemption requirements relating to the notes. No assurance can be given that the guidelines actually imposed with respect to the notes by a NRSRO will be more or less restrictive than as described in this prospectus.

In addition, the Fund expects that any notes or a credit facility would contain covenants that, among other things, will likely impose geographic exposure limitations, credit quality minimums, liquidity minimums, concentration limitations and currency hedging requirements on the Fund. These covenants would also likely limit the Fund's ability to pay distributions in certain circumstances, incur additional debt, change its fundamental investment policies, engage in certain transactions, including mergers and consolidations, and may require asset coverage ratios in addition to those required by the 1940 Act. The Fund would only agree to a limit on its ability to change its fundamental investment policies if doing so was consistent with the 1940 Act and applicable state law. The Fund may be required to pledge (or otherwise grant a security interest in) some or all of its assets and to maintain a portion of its assets in cash or high-grade securities as a reserve against interest or principal payments and expenses. The Fund expects that any notes or credit facility would have customary covenant, negative covenant and default provisions. There can be no assurance that the Fund will enter into an agreement for a credit facility, or issue notes, on terms and conditions representative of the foregoing, or that additional material terms will not apply. In addition, if entered into or issued, any such notes or credit facility may in the future be replaced or refinanced by one or more credit facilities having substantially different terms or by the issuance of preferred shares and/or notes or debt securities. The Fund is currently a party to the Credit Facility. See "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy — Use of Leverage and Related Risks" for more information.

**ANTI-TAKEOVER AND CERTAIN OTHER PROVISIONS IN THE AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST**

**Anti-Takeover Provisions**

The Agreement and Declaration of Trust and By-Laws of the Fund contain provisions, which are described below in this section, that could have the effect of limiting (i) the ability of other entities or persons to acquire control of the Fund; (ii) the Fund's freedom to engage in certain transactions or (iii) the ability of the Fund's trustees or shareholders to amend the Agreement and Declaration of Trust and By-Laws or effectuate changes in the Fund's management. These provisions of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust and By-Laws of the Fund may be regarded as "anti-takeover" provisions.

The Board is divided into three (3) classes, with the terms of one (1) class expiring at each annual meeting of shareholders or special meeting in lieu thereof. At each annual meeting, one class of trustees is elected to a three-year term. This provision could delay for up to two (2) years the replacement of a majority of the Board. Shareholders have no right under the Agreement and Declaration of Trust to remove any trustee, other than by electing a different trustee at an annual meeting of shareholders. The Fund's Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides that, unless a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the Board approves such action, the affirmative vote of at least three-fourths (3/4) of the Fund's outstanding shares of each affected class or series entitled to be cast, voting together unless otherwise entitled to vote as a separate class or series, is required in order to approve (i) any amendment to, repeal of, or adoption of any provision inconsistent with, the Fund's Agreement and Declaration of Trust regarding election and term of trustees or (ii) any amendment to the Agreement and Declaration of Trust that reduces the foregoing three-fourths (3/4) vote requirement. A trustee may be removed from office for cause only, and not without cause, and only by the action of two-thirds (2/3) of the remaining trustees provided the aggregate number of Trustees after such removal shall not be less than the minimum set forth in the Agreement and Declaration of Trust.

The Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides that the trustees may (i) sell, convey and transfer all or substantially all of the assets of the Fund to another trust, corporation, partnership, association or other entity; (ii) merge or consolidate the Fund with any other trust, corporation, partnership, association or other entity or (iii) dissolve the Fund. The trustees may require a shareholder vote on such matters as well. The Agreement and Declaration of Trust does not contemplate that the shareholders could affect any of the foregoing actions directly.

The overall effect of these provisions is to render more difficult the accomplishment of a merger or the assumption of control by a third party. These provisions also provide, however, the advantage of potentially requiring persons seeking control of the Fund to negotiate with its management regarding the price to be paid and facilitating the continuity of the Fund's investment objectives and policies. The provisions of the Agreement and

------

Declaration of Trust and By-Laws described above could have the effect of discouraging a third party from seeking to obtain control of the Fund in a tender offer or similar transaction.

Reference should be made to the Agreement and Declaration of Trust on file with the SEC for the full text of these provisions.

The Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides that the Fund will fully indemnify (except in the case of certain disabling conduct) each of its trustees, officers and employees, and any investment adviser or sub-adviser in connection with their service with the Fund. The Agreement and Declaration of Trust also provides for advancement of expenses (including counsel fees) to such indemnified persons subject to certain conditions set forth in the Agreement and Declaration of Trust.

**Control Share Statute**

The Fund 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 Fund.

The Control Share Statute provides for a series of voting power thresholds above which shares are considered "control beneficial interests" (referred to here as "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 or more of all voting power.

Once a threshold is reached, an acquirer has no voting rights under the DSTA with respect to shares acquired in excess of that threshold (*i.e.,* the "control shares") unless approved by shareholders of the Fund or exempted by the Board. 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. Alternatively, the Board is permitted, but not obligated, to exempt acquisitions of control shares, either in advance or retroactively. As of the date hereof, the Board has not received notice of the occurrence of a control share acquisition nor has been requested to exempt any acquisition. Therefore, the Board has not determined whether the application of the Control Share Statute to an acquisition of Fund shares is in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders and has not exempted any acquisition or class of acquisitions.

The foregoing is only a summary of certain aspects of the Control Share Statute. Some uncertainty around the 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 acquisition provisions violate the 1940 Act.

**Jurisdiction**

The Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides that any claims, suits, actions or proceedings asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs (or similar) doctrine or arising out of or, if such court does not have subject matter jurisdiction thereof, any other court in the State of Delaware with subject matter jurisdiction. The exclusive forum provision may require Fund shareholders to bring an action in an inconvenient or less favorable forum and may make it more expensive to bring a suit. The foregoing does not apply to any claims, suits or actions arising out of federal securities laws.

**CONVERSION TO OPEN-END FUND**

The Fund may be converted to an open-end management investment company at any time if approved by both (i) a majority of the Board and (ii) a vote of shareholders representing the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund at a shareholder meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities are present in person or by proxy; or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund. The composition of the Fund's portfolio and/or its investment policies could prohibit the

------

Fund from complying with regulations of the SEC applicable to open-end management investment companies unless significant changes in portfolio holdings, which might be difficult and could involve losses, and investment policies are made. Conversion of the Fund to an open-end management investment company also would require the redemption of any outstanding preferred shares and could require the repayment of borrowings, which would reduce the leveraged capital structure of the Fund with respect to the Common Shares. In the event of conversion, the Common Shares would cease to be listed on the NYSE or other national securities exchange or market system. The Board believes the closed-end structure is desirable, given the Fund's investment objectives and policies. Investors should assume, therefore, that it is unlikely that the Board would vote to convert the Fund to an open-end management investment company. Common shareholders of an open-end management investment company can require the company to redeem their shares at any time (except in certain circumstances as authorized by or under the 1940 Act) at their NAV, less such redemption charge, if any, as might be in effect at the time of a redemption. If converted to an open-end fund, the Fund expects to pay all redemption requests in cash, but reserves the right to pay redemption requests in a combination of cash or securities. If such partial payment in securities were made, investors may incur brokerage costs in converting such securities to cash. If the Fund were converted to an open-end fund, it is likely that new Common Shares would be sold at NAV plus a sales load.

 **PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION**

The Fund may offer up to $182,234,959 in aggregate initial offering price of Common Shares, Preferred Shares, Notes 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 Fund's dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase 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 Fund will receive from the sale; and

• any securities exchange on which the offered Securities may be listed

**Direct Sales**

The Fund 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 Fund may use electronic media, including the Internet, to sell offered securities directly. The Fund will describe the terms of any of those sales in a Prospectus Supplement.

**By Agents**

The Fund may offer Securities through agents that the Fund may designate. The Fund will name any agent involved in the offer and sale and describe any commissions payable by the Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund sells Securities to underwriters, the Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund, underwriters and agents may be entitled to indemnification by the Fund, 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 Fund 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 Fund's securities may not be greater than eight percent (8%) of the gross proceeds received by the Fund 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 Fund 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.

**CUSTODIAN, DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR.**

State Street serves as Custodian for the Fund. The Custodian holds cash, securities, and other assets of the Fund as required by the 1940 Act and also provides certain Fund accounting services. Custody and accounting fees are payable monthly based on assets held in custody, investment purchases and sales activity and other factors, plus reimbursement for certain out of pocket expenses. The principal business address of State Street is 1 Heritage Drive, 3rd Floor, North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171. Computershare, P.O. Box 505000, Louisville, KY 40233, acts as the Fund's dividend paying agent, transfer agent and the registrar for the Fund's Common Shares.

**LEGAL OPINIONS**

Certain legal matters in connection with the Common Shares will be passed on for the Fund by Dechert LLP.

**INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM**

The [financial statements](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) as of and for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023 incorporated by reference in the SAI have been so incorporated in reliance on the report of KPMG LLP ("KPMG"), an independent registered public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting. The principal place of business of KPMG is located at 1601 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103. KPMG provides audit services and consultation with respect to the preparation of filings with the SEC.

**ADDITIONAL INFORMATION**

This Prospectus concisely provides the information that a prospective investor should know about the Fund before investing. Investors are advised to read this Prospectus carefully and to retain it for future reference. Additional information about the Fund, including the SAI, dated May 30, 2024, has been filed with the SEC and is incorporated by reference in its entirety into this prospectus. The SAI and the Fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other information filed with the SEC, can be obtained upon request and without charge by writing to the Fund at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, by calling Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465 or by visiting the Fund's website at https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds. Investors may request the Fund's SAI, annual and semi-annual reports and other information about the Fund or make Shareholder inquiries by calling Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465 or by visiting https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds. In addition, the contact information provided above may be used to request additional information about the Fund and to make Shareholder inquiries. The SAI, other material incorporated by reference into this prospectus and other information about the Fund is also available on the SEC's website at *http://www.sec.gov.* The address of the SEC's website is provided solely for the information of prospective investors and is not intended to be an active link.

------

**abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund** 

**Up to $75,000,000** 

**Common Shares**

**PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT**

**abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund**

**Statement of Additional Information**

**May 30, 2024**

This Statement of Additional Information (the "SAI") provides additional information to the Prospectus for abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund (the "Fund") dated May 30, 2024 as it may be amended from time to time. This SAI is not a prospectus and should only be read in conjunction with the Prospectus. You may obtain the Prospectus without charge by writing to the Fund at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, by calling Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465 or by visiting the Fund's website at <u>https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds</u>.

Investors in the Fund will be informed of the Fund's progress through periodic reports. Financial statements certified by an independent registered public accounting firm will be submitted to Shareholders at least annually. Once available, copies of the reports to Shareholders may be obtained upon request, without charge, by contacting the Fund at the address or telephone number listed above.

**Table of Contents**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Investment objectives, policies and risks | 3 |
| Investment restrictions | 12 |
| Management of the Fund | 14 |
| Portfolio transactions and brokerage allocation | 20 |
| Description of shares | 22 |
| Repurchase of Common Shares | 22 |
| Tax matters | 24 |
| Proxy voting policy and proxy voting record | 29 |
| Incorporation by reference | 29 |
| Financial Statements | 30 |
| Legal counsel | 30 |
| Additional information | 30 |
| Appendix A—Description of securities ratings | A-1 |
| Appendix B—Proxy voting guidelines | B-1 |

---

**Investment objectives, policies and risks**

The following disclosure supplements the disclosure set forth under the caption "Investment Objectives and Principal Investment Strategy" in the prospectus and does not, by itself, present a complete or accurate explanation of the matters disclosed. Readers must refer also to this caption in the prospectus for a complete presentation of the matters disclosed below.

**Senior Loans**

***The Senior Loan Process***

Senior secure floating rate and fixed rate loans ("Senior Loans") are generally negotiated between a borrower and several lenders represented by one or more lenders acting as agent of all the lenders. The agent is responsible for negotiating the loan agreement that establishes the terms and conditions of the Senior Loan and the rights of the borrower and the lenders. In addition, an institution, typically but not always the agent, holds any collateral on behalf of the lenders. The agent is paid a fee by the borrower for its services.

The agent generally is required to administer and manage the Senior Loan on behalf of other lenders. When evaluating Senior Loans, they may consider, and may rely in part on, analysis performed by the agent and other lenders. This analysis may include an evaluation of the value and sufficiency of collateral securing the Senior Loans. If the agent is also acting as collateral agent, it will be required to monitor the collateral. The agent may rely on independent appraisals of specific collateral. The agent need not, however, obtain an independent appraisal of assets pledged as collateral in all cases. The agent generally is also responsible for determining that the lenders have obtained a perfected security interest in the collateral securing a Senior Loan.

The Fund normally relies on the agent to collect principal of and interest on a Senior Loan. Furthermore, the Fund also relies in part on the agent to monitor compliance by the borrower with the restrictive covenants in the loan agreement and to notify the lenders, to the extent the agent becomes aware or receives notice thereof, of any adverse change in the borrower's financial condition. The Fund will not purchase interests in Senior Loans unless the agent, lender and any other person positioned between the Fund and the borrower has entered into an agreement that provides for the holding of assets in safekeeping for, or the prompt disbursement of assets to, the Fund. Insolvency of the agent or other persons positioned between the Fund and the borrower could result in losses for the Fund.

The Fund may be required to pay and may receive various fees in connection with purchasing, selling and holding of interests in Senior Loans. The fees normally paid by borrowers include three primary types: structuring fees, commitment fees and prepayment penalties. Structuring fees are paid to lenders when a Senior Loan is originated. Commitment fees are paid to lenders on an ongoing basis based on the unused portion of a Senior Loan commitment. Prepayment penalties are fees paid to lenders when a borrower prepays a Senior Loan under certain circumstances set forth in the loan process. If the Fund acts as a lender originating a Senior Loan (an "original lender"), it will receive these fees directly from the borrower. If the Fund subsequently becomes a lender through an assignment or novation (an "Assignment"), it will receive any commitment fees and prepayment penalties directly from the borrower. Whether the Fund receives a facility fee in the case of an Assignment, or any fees in the case of an investment in a Senior Loan through a participation (a "Participation"), depends on negotiations between the Fund and the lender selling such interests. When the Fund buys a loan through an Assignment, it may be required to pay a fee to the lender selling the loan, or to forgo a portion of interest and fees payable to the Fund. Occasionally, the assignor pays a fee to the assignee. A person selling a Participation to the Fund may deduct a portion of the interest and any fees payable to the Fund as an administrative fee. The Fund may be required to pass along to a person that buys a Senior Loan from the Fund a portion of any fees that the Fund is entitled to receive.

The Fund may have obligations under a loan agreement, including the obligation to make additional loans in certain circumstances. The Fund intends to reserve against such contingent obligations by segregating cash and/or liquid securities.

***Types of Senior Loan Investments***

The Fund may act as an original lender originating a Senior Loan, may purchase Senior Loans through Assignments and may invest in Senior Loans through Participations.

*Original Lender.* When the Fund acts as an original lender, it may participate in structuring the Senior Loan. When the Fund is an original lender, it will have a direct contractual relationship with the borrower, may enforce compliance of the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement and may have rights with respect to any funds acquired by other lenders through set-off. Lenders typically also have full voting and consent rights under loan agreements. Certain actions of the borrower typically requires the vote or consent of the holders of some specified percentage of the outstanding principal amount of the Senior Loan. Certain decisions, such as reducing the amount of interest on or principal of a Senior Loan, releasing collateral, changing the maturity of a Senior Loan or a change in control of the borrower, frequently require the unanimous vote or consent of all lenders affected. The Fund intends never to act as the agent or principal negotiator or administrator of a Senior Loan, except to the extent it might be considered to be the principal negotiator of a loan negotiated by the Advisers for the Fund and/or one or more other registered investment companies managed by the Adviser.

The Fund will not act as an original lender for a loan if, after making such loan, loans originated by the Fund would exceed 5% of the Fund's Managed Assets. The Fund will generally only act as an original lender for a loan if, among other things, in the Advisers' judgment, the borrower can make timely payments on its loans and satisfy other credit standards established by the Advisers. The Advisers rely primarily on their own evaluation of the credit quality of such a borrower. As a result, the Fund is particularly dependent on the analytical abilities of the Advisers. The Fund will not originate a loan (i) to a borrower that is a portfolio company controlled by a fund managed by the Advisers or their affiliates or (ii) where a fund or account managed by the Advisers or their affiliates is the agent, principal negotiator or administrator of the loan, except to the extent that the Advisers or another registered investment company managed by the Advisers might be considered to be the principal negotiator of a loan it negotiates for the Fund and/or one or more other registered investment companies managed by the Advisers.

*Assignment.* The purchaser of a loan through an Assignment typically succeeds to all the rights and obligations under the loan agreement of the assigning lender and becomes a lender under the loan agreement. Assignments may, however, be arranged through private negotiations, and the rights and obligations acquired by the purchaser of an Assignment may differ from, and be more limited than, those held by the assigning lender.

*Participations.* When the Fund purchases an interest in a loan through a Participation, the Fund will usually have a contractual relationship only with the lender selling the Participation and not with the borrower. The Fund may have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to which it is entitled only from the lender selling the Participation and only upon receipt by the lender of such payments from the borrower. As a result, the Fund may assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the lender selling the Participation. In the event of insolvency of the lender selling a Participation, the Fund may be treated as a general creditor of the lender.

The Fund generally will not have the right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the loan agreement, nor rights to any funds acquired by other lenders through set-off against the borrower. In addition, when the Fund holds a Participation in a Senior Loan, it may not have the right to vote on whether to waive enforcement of any restrictive covenant breached by a borrower. Lenders voting in connection with a potential waiver of a restrictive covenant may have interests different from those of the Fund and may not consider the interests of the Fund. The Fund may not benefit directly from the collateral supporting a Senior Loan in which it has purchased the Participation, although lenders that sell Participations generally are required to distribute liquidation proceeds received by them pro rata among the holders of such Participations.

**Lower Grade Loans and Debt**

The Fund's investments may include credit obligations with the lowest grade assigned by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (a "NRSRO") and unrated credit obligations of comparable quality. Appendix A to this SAI contains further information about the rating categories of NRSROs and their significance. Credit obligations assigned the lowest grade ratings include those of companies that are in default or are in bankruptcy or reorganization. Credit obligations of such companies are regarded by the NRSROs as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real investment standing and are usually available at deep discounts from the face values of the instruments. A security purchased at a deep discount may currently pay a very high effective yield. In addition, if the financial condition of the company improves, the underlying value of the obligation may increase, resulting in capital appreciation. If the company defaults on its credit obligations or remains in default, or if the plan of reorganization does not provide sufficient payments for debtholders, the deep discount credit obligations may stop generating income and lose value or become worthless.

The Advisers seek to balance the benefits of deep discount credit obligations with the risks associated with investments in such obligations. While a diversified portfolio may reduce the overall impact of a deep discount obligation that is in default or loses its value, the risk cannot be eliminated.

Few lower-grade credit obligations are listed for trading on any national securities exchange, and issuers of lower-grade credit obligations may choose not to have a rating assigned to their credit obligations by any NRSRO. As a result, the Fund's portfolio may consist of a greater portion of unlisted or unrated credit obligations as compared with a fund that invests primarily in higher-grade credit obligations. Unrated credit obligations are usually not as attractive to as many buyers as are rated credit obligations, a factor which may make unrated credit obligations less marketable. These factors may have the effect of limiting the availability of the credit obligations for purchase by the Fund and may also limit the ability of the Fund to sell such credit obligations at their fair value either to raise cash for the repurchase of Common Shares, meet redemption requests or in response to changes in the economy or the financial markets. Further, to the extent the Fund owns or may acquire illiquid or restricted lower-grade credit obligations, these credit obligations may involve special registration responsibilities, liabilities and costs, and liquidity and valuation difficulties.

The markets for lower-grade loans and debt credit obligations may be less liquid than the markets for higher-grade credit obligations. Liquidity relates to the ability to sell an obligation in a timely manner at a price which reflects the value of that obligation. To the extent that there is no established retail market for some of the lower-grade securities in which the Fund may invest, trading in such securities may be relatively inactive. Prices of lower-grade credit obligations may decline rapidly in the event a significant number of holders decide to sell. Changes in expectations regarding an individual issuer of lower-grade credit obligations generally could reduce market liquidity for such credit obligations and make their sale by the Fund more difficult, at least in the absence of price concessions. The effects of adverse publicity and investor perceptions may be more pronounced for securities for which no established retail market exists as compared with the effects on securities for which such a market does exist. An economic downturn or an increase in interest rates could severely disrupt the market for such credit obligations and adversely affect the value of outstanding credit obligations or the ability of the issuers to repay principal and interest. Further, the Fund may have more difficulty selling such credit obligations in a timely manner and at their stated value than would be the case for credit obligations for which an established retail market does exist.

During periods of reduced market liquidity or in the absence of readily available market quotations for lower-grade or other credit obligations held in the Fund's portfolio, the ability of the Fund to value the Fund's investments becomes more difficult and the judgment of the Advisers may play a greater role in the valuation of the Fund's investments due to the reduced availability of reliable objective data.

The Fund relies on the Advisers' judgment, analysis and experience in evaluating the creditworthiness of an issuer. The amount of available information about the financial condition of certain lower-grade issuers may be less extensive than other issuers. In their analysis, the Advisers may consider the credit ratings of NRSROs in evaluating credit obligations although the Advisers do not rely primarily on these ratings. Credit ratings of NRSROs evaluate only the safety of principal and interest payments, not the market risk. In addition, ratings are general and not absolute standards of quality, and credit ratings are subject to the risk that the creditworthiness of an issuer may change and the NRSROs may fail to change such ratings in a timely fashion. A rating downgrade does not require the Fund to dispose of a security. The Advisers continuously monitor the issuers of credit obligations held in their respective managed portions of the Fund. Additionally, since most non-U.S. income credit obligations are not rated, the Fund will invest in such credit obligations based on the analysis of the Advisers without any guidance from published ratings. Because of the number of investment considerations involved in investing in lower-grade credit obligations and foreign income credit obligations, achievement of the Fund's investment objectives may be more dependent upon the credit analysis of the Advisers than is the case with investing in higher-grade credit obligations.

New or proposed laws may have an impact on the market for lower-grade credit obligations. The Fund is unable at this time to predict what effect, if any, legislation may have on the market for lower-grade credit obligations.

**Derivative Instruments**

The Fund may, but is not required to, use various transactions in derivative instruments to earn income, to facilitate portfolio management and to mitigate risks. Techniques and instruments may change over time as new instruments and strategies are developed or as regulatory changes occur. Although the Advisers seek to use such transactions to further the Fund's investment objectives, no assurance can be given that the use of these transactions will achieve this result. The Fund's activities involving derivative instruments may be limited due to the Fund's intent to qualify under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), as a regulated investment company. Regulatory developments affecting the exchange-traded and over-the-counter ("OTC") derivatives markets may impair the Fund's ability to manage or hedge its investment portfolio through the use of derivatives.

**Call and Put Options**

The Fund may purchase and sell call or put options on securities, including U.S. Treasury and agency securities, foreign sovereign debt, mortgage-backed securities, corporate debt securities, Eurodollar instruments and foreign debt securities that are traded on U.S. and foreign securities exchanges and in the OTC markets and may also purchase related futures contracts on such securities, indices and currencies. All calls sold by the Fund must be "covered" (i.e., the Fund must own the securities or futures contract subject to the call). Even though the Fund will receive the option premium as compensation, a call sold by the Fund exposes the Fund during the term of the option to possible loss of opportunity to realize appreciation in the market price of the underlying security or instrument above the exercise price of the call and may require the Fund to hold a security or instrument which it might otherwise have sold. If a written call option is not covered, the Fund is exposed to the risk that it may have to purchase the underlying securities in the market upon exercise of the option (in order to deliver the securities to the option holder) at a price that is higher than the exercise price and premiums received by the Fund. In selling put options, there is a risk that the Fund may be required to buy the underlying security at a disadvantageous price above the market price.

**Selling Call and Put Options**

*Purpose.* The principal reason for selling options is to obtain, through receipt of premiums, a greater current return than would be realized on the underlying securities alone. Such current return could be expected to fluctuate because premiums earned from an option selling program and dividend or interest income yields on portfolio securities vary as economic and market conditions change. Selling options on portfolio securities is likely to result in a higher portfolio turnover rate.

*Selling Options.* The purchaser of a call option pays a premium to the seller (i.e., the writer) for the right to buy the underlying security from the seller at a specified price during a certain period. The Fund would write call options only on a covered basis or for cross-hedging purposes. A call option is covered if, at all times during the option period, the Fund owns or has the right to acquire securities of the type that it would be obligated to deliver if any outstanding option were exercised. An option is for cross-hedging purposes if it is not covered by the security subject to the option, but is designed to provide a hedge against another security which the Fund owns or has the right to acquire.

The purchaser of a put option pays a premium to the seller (i.e., the writer) for the right to sell the underlying security to the writer at a specified price during a certain period. The Fund would sell put options only on a secured basis, which means that the Fund would hold a put on the same underlying security at an equal or greater exercise price.

*Closing Purchase Transactions and Offsetting Transactions.* To terminate its position as a writer of a call or put option, the Fund could enter into a "closing purchase transaction," which is the purchase of a call (put) on the same underlying security and having the same exercise price and expiration date as the call (put) previously sold by the Fund. The Fund would realize a gain (loss) if the premium plus commission paid in the closing purchase transaction is less (greater) than the premium it received on the sale of the option. The Fund would also realize a gain if an option it has written lapses unexercised.

The Fund could sell options that are listed on an exchange as well as options which are privately negotiated in OTC transactions. The Fund could close out its position as a seller of an option only if a liquid secondary market exists for options of that series, but there is no assurance that such a market will exist, particularly in the case of OTC options, since they can be closed out only with the other party to the transaction. Alternatively, the Fund could purchase an offsetting option, which would not close out its position as a seller, but would provide an asset of equal value to its obligation under the option sold. If the Fund is not able to enter into a closing purchase transaction or to purchase an offsetting option with respect to an option it has sold, it will be required to maintain the securities subject to the call or the collateral securing the option until a closing purchase transaction can be entered into (or the option is exercised or expires) even though it might not be advantageous to do so.

*Risks of Writing Options.* By selling a call option, the Fund loses the potential for gain on the underlying security above the exercise price while the option is outstanding; by selling a put option the Fund might become obligated to purchase the underlying security at an exercise price that exceeds the then current market price. If a written call option is not covered, the Fund is exposed to the risk that it may have to purchase the underlying securities in the market upon exercise of the option (in order to deliver the securities to the option holder) at a price that is higher than the exercise price and premiums received by the Fund.

**Purchasing Call and Put Options**

The Fund could purchase call options to protect against anticipated increases in the prices of securities it wishes to acquire. Alternatively, call options could be purchased for capital appreciation. Since the premium paid for a call option is typically a small fraction of the price of the underlying security, a given amount of funds will purchase call options covering a much larger quantity of such security than could be purchased directly. By purchasing call options, the Fund could benefit from any significant increase in the price of the underlying security to a greater extent than had it invested the same amount in the security directly. However, the Fund would bear a risk of losing the entire premium if the price of the underlying security did not rise sufficiently, or if it did not do so before the option expired.

Put options may be purchased to protect against anticipated declines in the market value of either specific portfolio securities or of the Fund's assets generally. Alternatively, put options may be purchased for capital appreciation in anticipation of a price decline in the underlying security and a corresponding increase in the value of the put option. The purchase of put options for capital appreciation involves the same significant risk of loss as described above for call options. In any case, the purchase of options for capital appreciation would increase the Fund's volatility by increasing the impact of changes in the market price of the underlying securities on the Fund's NAV of the Common Shares.

**OTC Options**

The Fund is authorized to purchase and sell OTC options. OTC options are purchased from or sold to securities dealers, financial institutions or other parties ("Counterparties") through direct bilateral agreements with the Counterparty. OTC options expose the Fund to counterparty risk.

**Futures Contracts**

An index futures contract is an agreement pursuant to which two parties agree to take and make delivery of an amount of cash equal to a specified dollar amount multiplied by the difference between the index value at a specified time and the price at which the futures contract originally was struck. No physical delivery of the underlying securities in the index is made. An interest rate futures contract is an agreement pursuant to which a party agrees to take or make delivery of a specified debt security (such as U.S. Treasury bonds or notes) at a specified future time and at a specified price. Interest rate futures contracts also include cash settlement contracts based upon a specified interest rate (such as Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) or Sterling Overnight Interbank Average Rate (SONIA)).

*Initial and Variation Margin.* In contrast to the purchase or sale of a security, no price is paid or received upon the purchase or sale of a futures contract. Initially, the Fund is required to deposit an amount of cash and/or liquid securities equal to a percentage (which will normally range between 1% and 10%) of the contract amount with a futures commission merchant pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated under the 1940 Act. This amount is known as initial margin. The nature of initial margin in futures contract transactions is different from that of margin in securities transactions in that futures contract margin does not involve the borrowing of funds by the customer to finance the transaction. Rather, the initial margin is in the nature of a performance bond or good faith deposit on the contract, which is returned to the Fund upon termination of the futures contract and satisfaction of its contractual obligations. Subsequent payments to and from the initial margin account, called variation margin, are made on a daily basis as the price of the underlying securities or index fluctuates, making the long and short positions in the futures contract more or less valuable, a process known as marking to market. At any time prior to expiration of the futures contract, the Fund may elect to terminate the position by taking an opposite position. A final determination of variation margin is then made, additional cash is required to be paid by or released to the Fund, and the Fund realizes a loss or a gain.

*Futures Contract Strategies.* When the Fund anticipates a significant market or market sector advance, the purchase of a futures contract affords a hedge against not participating in the advance at a time when the Fund is otherwise fully invested ("anticipatory hedge"). Such purchase of a futures contract would serve as a temporary substitute for the purchase of individual securities, which may be purchased in an orderly fashion once the market has stabilized. As individual securities are purchased, an equivalent amount of futures contracts could be terminated by offsetting sales. The Fund may sell futures contracts in anticipation of or in a general market or market sector decline that may adversely affect the market value of the Fund's securities ("defensive hedge"). To the extent that the Fund's portfolio of securities changes in value in correlation with the underlying security or index, the sale of futures contracts would substantially reduce the risk to the Fund of a market decline and, by so doing provides an alternative to the liquidation of securities positions in the Fund.

*Risks Associated with Futures Contract Transactions.* There are several risks connected with the use of futures contracts. These include the risk of imperfect correlation between movements in the price of the futures contracts and of the underlying securities or index; the risk of market distortion; the risk of illiquidity; and the risk of error in anticipating price movement. There may be an imperfect correlation (or no correlation) between movements in the price of the futures contracts and of the securities being hedged. The risk of imperfect correlation increases as the composition of the securities being hedged diverges from the securities or other reference value upon which the futures contract is based. If the price of the futures contract moves less than the price of the securities being hedged, the hedge will not be fully effective. To compensate for the imperfect correlation, the Fund could buy or sell futures contracts in a greater dollar amount than the dollar amount of securities being hedged if the historical volatility of the securities being hedged is greater than the historical volatility of the securities or other reference value underlying the futures contract. Conversely, the Fund could buy or sell futures contracts in a lesser dollar amount than the dollar amount of securities being hedged if the historical volatility of the securities being hedged is less than the historical volatility of the securities or other reference value underlying the futures contracts. It is also possible that the value of futures contracts held by the Fund could decline at the same time as portfolio securities being hedged; if this occurred, the Fund would lose money on the futures contract in addition to suffering a decline in value in the portfolio securities being hedged.

There is also the risk that the price of futures contracts may not correlate perfectly with movements in the securities or index underlying the futures contract due to certain market distortions. First, all participants in the futures contract market are subject to margin and maintenance requirements. Rather than meet additional margin requirements, investors may close out futures contracts through offsetting transactions, which could distort the normal relationship between the futures contract market and the securities or index underlying the futures contract. Second, from the point of view of speculators, the margin requirements in the futures contract market may be less onerous than margin requirements in the securities markets. Therefore, increased participation by speculators in the futures contract markets may cause temporary price distortions. Due to the possibility of price distortion in the futures contract markets and because of the imperfect correlation between movements in futures contracts and movements in the securities underlying them, a correct forecast of general market trends by the Advisers may still not result in a successful hedging transaction.

There is also the risk that futures contract markets may not be sufficiently liquid. Futures contracts may be closed out only on an exchange or board of trade that provides a market for such futures contracts. Although the Fund intends to purchase or sell futures contracts only on exchanges and boards of trade where there appears to be an active secondary market, there can be no assurance that an active secondary market will exist for any particular contract or at any particular time. In the event of such illiquidity, it might not be possible to close out a futures contract position and, in the event of adverse price movement, the Fund would continue to be required to make daily payments of variation margin. Since the securities being hedged would generally not be sold until the related futures contract is sold, an increase, if any, in the price of the securities may to some extent offset losses on the related futures contract. In such event, the Fund would lose the benefit of the appreciation in value of the securities.

Successful use of futures contracts is also subject to the Advisers' ability to correctly predict the direction of movements in the market. For example, if the Fund hedges against a decline in the market, and market prices instead advance, the Fund will lose part or all of the benefit of the increase in value of its securities holdings because it will have offsetting losses in futures contracts. In such cases, if the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have to sell portfolio securities at a time when it is disadvantageous to do so to meet the daily variation margin.

Although the Fund intends to enter into futures contracts only if there is an active market for such contracts, there is no assurance that an active market will exist for the contracts at any particular time. Most U.S. futures contract exchanges and boards of trade limit the amount of fluctuation permitted in futures contract prices during a single trading day. Once the daily limit has been reached in a particular contract, no trades may be made that day at a price beyond that limit. It is possible that futures contract prices could move to the daily limit for several consecutive trading days with little or no trading, thereby preventing prompt liquidation of futures contract positions and subjecting some futures contract traders to substantial losses. In such event, and in the event of adverse price movements, the Fund would be required to make daily cash payments of variation margin. In such circumstances, an increase in the value of the portion of the portfolio being hedged, if any, may partially or completely offset losses on the futures contract. However, there is no guarantee that the price of the securities being hedged will, in fact, correlate with the price movements in a futures contract and thus provide an offset to losses on the futures contract.

**Options on Futures Contracts**

The Fund could also purchase and write options on futures contracts. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a futures contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a put) at a specified exercise price at any time during the option period. As a writer of an option on a futures contract, the Fund would be subject to initial margin and maintenance requirements similar to those applicable to futures contracts. In addition, net option premiums received by the Fund are required to be included as initial margin deposits. When an option on a futures contract is exercised, delivery of the futures contract position is accompanied by cash representing the difference between the current market price of the futures contract and the exercise price of the option. The Fund could purchase put options on futures contracts in lieu of, and for the same purposes as the sale of a futures contract; at the same time, it could write put options at a lower strike price (a "put bear spread") to offset part of the cost of the strategy to the Fund. The purchase of call options on futures contracts is intended to serve the same purpose as the actual purchase of the futures contracts.

*Risks of Transactions in Options on Futures Contracts.* In addition to the risks described above which apply to all options transactions, there are several risks relating to options on futures contracts. The Advisers will not purchase options on futures contracts on any exchange unless, in the Advisers' opinion, a liquid secondary exchange market for such options exists. Compared to the use of futures contracts, the purchase of options on futures contracts involves less potential risk to the Fund because the maximum amount at risk with purchased options is the premium paid for the options (plus transaction costs). However, there may be circumstances, such as when there is no movement in the price of the underlying security or index, when the use of an option on a future contract would result in a loss to the Fund when the use of a future contract would not.

**Options on Foreign Currencies**

The Fund may purchase and write options on foreign currencies in a manner similar to that in which forward contracts or futures contracts on foreign currencies will be utilized. For example, a decline in the dollar value of a foreign currency in which portfolio securities are denominated will reduce the dollar value of such securities, even if their value in the foreign currency remains constant. To protect against such diminutions in the value of portfolio securities, the Fund may purchase put options on the foreign currency. If the value of the currency does decline, the Fund will have the right to sell such currency for a fixed amount in dollars and will thereby offset, in whole or in part, the adverse effect on its portfolio which otherwise would have resulted. Conversely, where a rise in the dollar value of a foreign currency in which securities to be acquired are denominated is projected, thereby increasing the cost of such securities, the Fund may purchase call options thereon. The purchase of such options could offset, at least partially, the effects of the adverse movements in exchange rates. As in the case of other types of options, however, the benefit to the Fund deriving from purchases of foreign currency options will be reduced by the amount of the premium and related transaction costs. In addition, where currency exchange rates do not move in the direction or to the extent anticipated, the Fund could sustain losses on transactions in foreign currency options which would require it to forego a portion or all of the benefits of advantageous changes in such rates.

The Fund may write options on foreign currencies for the same types of purposes. For example, where the Fund anticipates a decline in the dollar value of foreign currency denominated securities due to adverse fluctuations in exchange rates it could, instead of purchasing a put option, write a call option on the relevant currency. If the expected decline occurs, the option will most likely not be exercised, and the diminution in value of portfolio securities will be offset by the amount of the premium received. Similarly, instead of purchasing a call option to protect against an anticipated increase in the dollar cost of securities to be acquired, the Fund could write a put option on the relevant currency which, if rates move in the manner projected, will expire unexercised and allow the Fund to protect against such increased cost up to the amount of the premium. As in the case of other types of options, however, the writing of a foreign currency option will constitute only a partial hedge up to the amount of the premium, and only if rates move in the expected direction. If this does not occur, the option may be exercised and the Fund would be required to purchase or sell the underlying currency at a loss which may not be offset by the amount of the premium. Through the writing of options on foreign currencies, the Fund may also be required to forego all or a portion of the benefits which might otherwise have been obtained from favorable movements in exchange rates.

The value of a foreign currency option is dependent upon the value of the underlying foreign currency relative to the U.S. dollar. As a result, the price of the option position may vary with changes in the value of either or both currencies and has no relationship to the investment merits of a foreign security. Because foreign currency transactions occurring in the interbank market (conducted directly between currency traders, usually large commercial banks, and their customers) involve substantially larger amounts than those that may be involved in the use of foreign currency options, investors may be disadvantaged by having to deal in an odd lot market (generally consisting of transactions of less than $1 million) for the underlying foreign currencies at prices that are less favorable than for round lots.

There is no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies and there is no regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis. Quotation information available is generally representative of very large transactions in the interbank market and thus may not reflect relatively smaller transactions (i.e., less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable. The interbank market in foreign currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that the U.S. options markets are closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, significant price and rate movements may take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the options markets.

The Fund may write call options on foreign currencies for cross-hedging purposes. A call option on a foreign currency is for cross-hedging purposes if it is not covered, but is designed to protect against a decline in the U.S. dollar value of a security which the Fund owns or has the right to acquire and which is denominated in the currency underlying the option due to an adverse change in the exchange rate.

**Combined Transactions**

The Fund may enter into multiple transactions, including multiple options transactions, multiple futures contracts transactions, multiple currency transactions (including forward currency contracts) and multiple interest rate transactions and any combination of futures contracts, options, currency and interest rate transactions ("component" transactions), instead of a single derivative instrument as part of a single or combined strategy when, in the opinion of the Advisers, it is in the best interests of the Fund to do so. A combined transaction will usually contain elements of risk that are present in each of its component transactions. Although combined transactions are normally entered into based on the Advisers' judgment that the combined strategies will reduce risk or otherwise more effectively achieve the desired portfolio management goal, it is possible that the combination will instead increase such risks or hinder achievement of the portfolio management objective.

**Additional Risks of Other Derivative Instruments**

Investing in derivatives can involve leverage risk, liquidity risk, counterparty risk, market risk and operational/legal risk. Each of the U.S. exchanges has established limitations governing the maximum number of call or put options on the same underlying security which may be written by a single investor and limitations on the number of futures, options on futures and, in certain cases, swaps that a single investor may hold, whether acting alone or in concert with others (regardless of whether such derivatives are traded on the same or different exchanges or are written or hold on one or more accounts or through one or more brokers). Positions of all investment companies advised by the Adviser(s) are combined for purposes of these limits. An exchange may order the liquidation of positions found to be in violation of these limits and it may impose other sanctions or restrictions.

In the event of the bankruptcy of a broker or futures commission merchant through which the Fund engages in transactions in options, futures contracts or options on futures contracts, the Fund could experience delays and/or losses in liquidating open positions purchased or incur a loss of all or part of its margin deposits. Transactions are entered into by the Fund only with brokers or financial institutions deemed creditworthy by the Advisers.

Unlike transactions entered into by the Fund in futures and options on futures contracts, options on foreign currencies, forward contracts and many swaps may not be traded on contract markets regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the "CFTC") or by the SEC. Such instruments may be traded through financial institutions acting as market-makers. Similarly, options on currencies may be traded OTC. In an OTC trading environment, many of the protections afforded to exchange participants will not be available. For example, there are no daily price fluctuation limits, and adverse market movements could, therefore, continue to an unlimited extent over a period of time. Although the purchaser of an option cannot lose more than the amount of the premium plus related transaction costs, this entire amount could be lost. Moreover, the option writer and a trader of forward contracts could lose amounts substantially in excess of their initial investments, due to the margin and collateral requirements associated with such positions.

In addition, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, forward contracts and options on foreign currencies may be traded on foreign exchanges. Such transactions are subject to the risk of governmental actions affecting trading in or the prices of foreign currencies or securities. The value of such positions also could be adversely affected by (i) other complex foreign political, legal, and economic factors; (ii) lesser availability than in the United States of data on which to make trading decisions; (iii) delays in the Fund's ability to act upon economic events occurring in foreign markets during nonbusiness hours in the United States; (iv) the imposition of different exercise and settlement terms and procedures and margin requirements than in the United States and (v) lesser trading volume.

**Additional Regulatory Considerations Regarding Derivatives Trading**

The Adviser, with respect to the Fund, has claimed an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" pursuant to a notice of eligibility filed with the National Futures Association. The Fund may engage in transactions involving swap agreements and other derivatives including futures and options on futures (collectively, "commodity interests") in accordance with the rules and interpretations of the CFTC. In order for the Adviser, with respect to the Fund, to claim exclusion under CFTC Rule 4.5, the Fund must satisfy one of two CFTC trading limits and not be marketed as a fund for investing in commodity interests.

Under CFTC Rule 4.5, the Fund, for other than bona fide hedging transactions, must either:

● limit commodity interest exposure so that the aggregate initial margin and premiums required to establish the Fund's derivatives positions will not exceed 5% of the Fund's liquidation value (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses for those derivatives and excluding any in-the-money options that were in-the-money at the time of purchase); or

● ensure that the aggregate net notional value of the Fund's commodity interest positions do not exceed the Fund's liquidation value (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on the Fund's derivatives positions).

CFTC Rule 4.5 imposes limitations on the marketing activities of a fund seeking to rely on the exclusion. A fund, for which its investment adviser is claiming exclusion under CFTC Rule 4.5, may not market participations to the public in a commodity pool or any vehicle for trading in commodity futures, commodity options or swaps.

In October 2020, the SEC adopted Rule 18f-4 under the 1940 Act governing a registered investment company's use of derivatives, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements, and certain other instruments. Under Rule 18f-4, a fund's derivatives exposure is limited through a value-at-risk test and requires the adoption and implementation of a derivatives risk management program for certain derivatives users. However, subject to certain conditions, funds that do not invest heavily in derivatives may be deemed limited derivatives users and would not be subject to the full requirements of Rule 18f-4. Under the rule, when a fund trades reverse repurchase agreements or similar financing transactions, including certain tender option bonds, it needs to aggregate the amount of indebtedness associated with the reverse repurchase agreements or similar financing transactions with the aggregate amount of any other senior securities representing indebtedness when calculating the fund's asset coverage ratio or treat all such transactions as derivatives transactions. In addition, under the rule, the fund is permitted to invest in a security on a when-issued or forward-settling basis, or with a non-standard settlement cycle, and the transaction will be deemed not to involve a senior security (as defined under Section 18(g) of the 1940 Act), provided that, (i) the fund intends to physically settle the transaction and (ii) the transaction will settle within 35 days of its trade date (the "Delayed-Settlement Securities Provision"). A fund may otherwise engage in when-issued, forward-settling and non-standard settlement cycle securities transactions that do not meet the conditions of the Delayed-Settlement Securities Provision so long as a fund treats any such transaction as a "derivatives transaction" for purposes of compliance with the rule. Furthermore, under the rule, a fund is permitted to enter into an unfunded commitment agreement, and such unfunded commitment agreement will not be subject to the asset coverage requirements under the 1940 Act, if a fund reasonably believes, at the time it enters into such agreement, that it will have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to meet its obligations with respect to all such agreements as they come due. These requirements may limit the ability of a fund to use derivatives, and reverse repurchase agreements and similar financing transactions as part of its investment strategies. These requirements may increase the cost of a fund's investments and cost of doing business, which could adversely affect investors.

**Swap Transactions**

The Fund may enter into swap transactions including currency, credit default, total return and interest rate swap agreements, as well as options thereon, and may purchase or sell caps, floors and collars.

The Fund may enter into total return swaps. Total return swaps are used as substitutes for owning a particular physical security, or the securities comprised by a given market index, or to obtain exposure in markets where no physical securities are available such as an interest rate index. Total return refers to the payment (or receipt) of the total return (i.e., both price returns and dividends or distributions) on the security, index or other instrument underlying the swap, which is then exchanged for the receipt (or payment) of a floating interest rate. Total return swaps provide the Fund with the additional flexibility of gaining exposure to a particular security or index by using the most cost-effective vehicle available. Total return swaps provide the Fund with the opportunity to actively manage the cash maintained by the Fund as a result of not having to purchase the actual securities or other instruments underlying the swap. Similar to interest rate swaps, the cash backing total return swaps is actively managed to seek to earn a return in excess of the floating rate paid on the swap.

The Fund may enter into OTC or cleared and exchange-traded credit default swap contracts or credit-linked notes for hedging purposes or to gain exposure to a credit security in which the Fund may otherwise invest. An OTC credit default swap is an agreement between two parties to exchange the credit risk of an issuer (reference entity). A buyer of a credit default swap is said to buy protection by paying periodic fees in return for a contingent payment from the seller if the reference entity has a credit event such as bankruptcy, a failure to pay outstanding obligations or deteriorating credit while the swap is outstanding. A seller of a credit default swap is said to sell protection and thus collects the periodic fees and profits if the credit of the reference entity remains stable or improves while the swap is outstanding but the seller in a credit default swap contract would be required to pay an agreed-upon amount to the buyer in the event of an adverse credit event of the reference entity. A credit-linked note is a synthetic security, typically issued by a special purpose vehicle or a bank, that trades like a bond issued by the reference entity but with the economics of the credit default swap. For this security, the buyer of protection sells the note. The buyer of protection (note seller) will typically make periodic payments to the note holder while the reference entity is not in default. If the reference entity defaults, the note seller may profit through the termination of its obligations to make periodic payments and to return the note holder's principal. Unlike the swap, the buyer of protection in a credit-linked note will receive money at the time of transaction from the sale of the note, and will return this money at the contract's maturity if no credit event occurs. Conversely, the seller of protection purchases the notes. As with a credit default swap, the note purchaser (protection seller) receives periodic payments. Unlike the swap transaction, the protection seller must pay for the note at the time of the transaction and will collect this money at the contract's maturity if no credit event occurs.

The Fund may enter into OTC or cleared and exchange-traded interest rate swap contracts. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by the Fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, e.g., an exchange of floating rate payments for fixed rate payments with respect to a notional amount of principal. The purchase of an interest rate cap entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index exceeds a predetermined interest rate, to receive payments of interest on a contractually-based principal amount from the party selling the interest rate cap. The purchase of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, to receive payments of interest on a contractually-based principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. An interest rate collar combines the elements of purchasing a cap and selling a floor. The collar protects the purchaser against an interest rate rise above the maximum amount but requires the purchaser to forego the benefit of an interest rate decline below the minimum amount.

The Fund will enter into swap, cap or floor transactions only with counterparties approved by the Advisers in accordance with guidelines established by the Fund's Board of Trustees (the "Board" or the "Trustees"). The Advisers will monitor the creditworthiness of counterparties to the Fund's swap, cap, floor and collar transactions on an ongoing basis. If there is a default by the counterparty to such a transaction, the Fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. The Fund may enter into swaps, caps, floors and collars on either an asset-based or liability-based basis, and will usually enter into swaps on a net basis, i.e., the two payment streams are netted out, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. The net amount of the excess, if any, of the Fund's obligations over its entitlements with respect to each swap will be accrued on a daily basis.

A swap option, or swaption, is a contract that gives a counterparty the right (but not the obligation) to enter into a new swap agreement or to shorten, extend, cancel or otherwise modify an existing swap agreement, at some designated future time on specified terms. The Fund may write (sell) and purchase put and call swaptions.

The use of swaps is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. If the Advisers are incorrect in their forecasts of the market values, interest rates and other applicable factors, the investment performance of the Fund would diminish compared with what it would have been if these investment techniques were not used. The use of swaps, caps, collars and floors may also have the effect of shifting the recognition of income between current and future periods.

**Structured Notes**

Structured notes are derivative debt securities, the interest rate and/or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. Indexed securities include structured notes as well as securities other than debt securities, the interest rate or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. Indexed securities may include a multiplier that multiplies the indexed element by a specified factor and, therefore, the value of such securities may be very volatile. The terms of structured notes and indexed securities may provide that in certain circumstances no principal is due at maturity and therefore, may result in a loss of invested capital. Structured notes and indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the reference may produce an increase or a decrease in the interest rate or the value of the structured or indexed security at maturity may be calculated as a specified multiple of the change in the value of the reference; therefore, the value of such security may be very volatile. Structured notes and indexed securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference indicator. Structured notes or indexed securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities.

**Investment Restrictions**

The following are fundamental investment restrictions of the Fund and may not be changed without the approval of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities (which for this purpose and under the 1940 Act means the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the Fund's voting securities present at a meeting at which more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding voting securities are present or represented by proxy or (ii) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding voting securities). Except as otherwise noted, all percentage limitations set forth below apply immediately after a purchase and any subsequent change in any applicable percentage resulting from market fluctuations does not require any action. With respect to the limitations on the issuance of senior securities and in the case of borrowings, the percentage limitations apply at the time of issuance and on an ongoing basis. The Fund may not.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Issue senior securities or borrow money, except the Fund may issue
 senior securities and/or borrow money (including through reverse repurchase agreements) to
 the extent permitted by the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time, and as modified or supplemented
 from time to time by (i) the rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC under
 the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time and (ii) an exemption or other relief applicable
 to the Fund from the provisions of the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time. The Fund does
 not have an investment policy limiting the amount of leverage that may be obtained through
 the use of covered reverse repurchase agreements.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Act as an underwriter of securities issued by others, except to the
 extent that, in connection with the disposition of loans or portfolio securities, it may
 be deemed to be an underwriter under applicable securities laws.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Invest in any security if as a result, 25% or more of the value of
 the Fund's total assets, taken at market value at the time of each investment, are in the
 securities of issuers in any particular industry except (a) securities issued or guaranteed
 by the U.S. government and its agencies and instrumentalities or securities of state and
 municipal governments or their political subdivisions (however, not including private purpose
 industrial development bonds issued on behalf of non-government issuers), or (b) as
 otherwise provided by the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time, and as modified or supplemented
 from time to time by (i) the rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC under
 the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time, and (ii) any exemption or other relief applicable
 to the Fund from the provisions of the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time. For purposes
 of this restriction, (i) an investment in a loan participation will be considered to
 be an investment in the securities or obligations of the issuer of the loan to which the
 participation relates and (ii) an investment in a repurchase agreement, reverse repurchase
 agreement, CLO, CBO, CDO or a swap or other derivative will be considered to be an investment
 in the industry (if any) of the underlying or reference security, instrument or asset. The
 Fund defines an industry by reference to Bloomberg BICS codes for industry classifications.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4. Purchase or sell real estate, except that the Fund may: (a) acquire
 or lease office space for its own use, (b) invest in securities and/or other instruments
 of issuers that invest in real estate or interests therein or that are engaged in or operate
 in the real estate industry, (c) invest in securities and/or other instruments that
 are secured by real estate or interests therein, (d) purchase and sell mortgage-related
 securities and/or other instruments, and (e) hold and sell real estate acquired by the
 Fund as a result of the ownership of securities and/or other instruments.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5. Purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result
 of ownership of securities or other instruments; provided that this restriction shall not
 prohibit the Fund from purchasing or selling options, futures contracts and related options
 thereon, forward contracts, swaps, caps, floors, collars and any other financial or derivative
 instruments or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6. Make loans of money or property to any person, except (a) to
 the extent that securities, instruments, credit obligations or interests (including Senior
 Loans) in which the Fund may invest, or which the Fund may originate, are considered to be
 loans, (b) through the loan of portfolio securities or (c) by engaging in repurchase
 agreements.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7. May not purchase securities of any one issuer, other than obligations
 issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, if, immediately
 after such purchase, more than 5% of the Fund's total assets would be invested in such issuer
 or the Fund would hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of the issuer,
 except that 25% or less of the Fund's total assets may be invested without regard to such
 limitations. There is no limit to the percentage of assets that may be invested in U.S. Treasury
 bills, notes, or other obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies
 or instrumentalities.

Thus, with respect to the foregoing restrictions 1 and 3, the Fund currently may not:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Issue senior securities or borrow money, except as permitted by the
 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder. Currently, the 1940 Act and the rules and
 regulations thereunder generally limit the extent to which the Fund may utilize borrowings,
 together with any other senior securities representing indebtedness, to 33 and 1/3% of the
 Fund's total assets at the time utilized (less the Fund's liabilities and indebtedness
 not represented by senior securities). In addition, the 1940 Act limits the extent to which
 the Fund may issue preferred shares plus senior securities representing indebtedness to 50%
 of the Fund's total assets (less the Fund's liabilities and indebtedness not
 represented by senior securities). Indebtedness associated with reverse repurchase agreements
 and similar financing transactions may be aggregated with any other senior securities representing
 indebtedness for this purpose or be treated as derivatives transactions under the 1940 Act
 and the rules and regulations thereunder, depending on the Fund's election under
 applicable SEC requirements.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Invest in any security if, as a result 25% or more of the value of
 the Fund's total assets, taken at market value at the time of each investment, are in the
 securities of issuers in any particular industry except securities issued or guaranteed by
 the U.S. government and its agencies and instrumentalities or securities of state and municipal
 governments or their political subdivisions (however, not including private purpose industrial
 development bonds issued on behalf of non-government issuers).

The latter part of certain of the Fund's fundamental investment restrictions (i.e., the references to "as may otherwise be permitted by the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time and as modified or supplemented from time to time by (i) the rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC under the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time, and (ii) any exemption or other relief applicable to the Fund from the provisions of the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time") provide the Fund with flexibility to change its limitations in connection with changes in applicable law, rules, regulations or exemptive relief. The language used in these restrictions provides the necessary flexibility to allow the Fund's Board to respond efficiently to these kinds of developments without the delay and expense of a shareholder meeting.

**Management of the Fund**

**Trustees and Officers**

The business and affairs of the Fund are managed under the direction of the Board and the Fund's officers appointed by the Board. The tables below list the trustees and officers of the Fund and their present positions and principal occupations during the past five years. The business address of the Fund, its Board members and officers and the Adviser is 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, unless specified otherwise below. The term "Fund Complex" includes each of the registered investment companies advised by the Adviser or their affiliates as of the date of this SAI. Trustees serve three-year terms or until their successors are duly elected and qualified. Officers are annually elected by the trustees.

The information contained under the heading "Management of the Fund" in the Fund's [Annual Report](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**Risk Oversight**

The information contained under the heading "Board and Committee Structure—Board Oversight of Risk Management" in the Fund's definitive proxy statement on [Schedule 14A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924044658/tm2410797d1_def14a.htm) for the Fund's 2024 annual meeting of shareholders, filed with the SEC on April 8, 2024 ("Proxy Statement") is incorporated herein by reference.

**Experience of Trustees**

The information contained under the heading "Additional Information About the Trustees" in the Fund's [Proxy Statement](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924044658/tm2410797d1_def14a.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**Compensation**

The information contained under the heading "COMPENSATION" in the Fund's [Proxy Statement](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924044658/tm2410797d1_def14a.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

The following table sets forth information regarding compensation of Trustees by the Fund and by the Fund Complex of which the Fund is a part for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023. Officers of the do not receive any compensation directly from the Fund or any other fund in the Fund Complex for performing their duties as officers.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name of Trustee** | **Aggregate Compensation<br> from Fund for<br> Fiscal Year Ended<br> October 31, 2023** | **Total Compensation<br> From Fund and Fund<br> Complex Paid<br> To Trustees\*** |
| Nancy Yao | $79660 | $322841 |
| P. Gerald Malone | $97369 | $610191 |
| John Sievwright | $87994 | $224948 |
| Randolph Takian | $79660 | $79660 |
| Stephen Bird | N/A | N/A |

---

\* See the "Trustees" table for the number of Funds within the Fund Complex that each Trustee services.

**Board and Committee Structure**

The information contained under the heading "Board and Committee Structure" in the Fund's [Proxy Statement](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924044658/tm2410797d1_def14a.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

**Shareholder Communications**

Shareholders who wish to communicate with Trustees with respect to matters relating to the Fund may address their written correspondence to the Board as a whole or to individual Trustees c/o abrdn Inc. (the "Administrator"), the Fund's administrator, at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, or via e-mail to the Trustee(s) c/o abrdn Inc. at Investor.relations@abrdn.com.

**Trustee Beneficial Ownership of Securities**

As of the date of this SAI, the Fund's trustees and executive officers, as a group, owned less than 1% of the Fund's outstanding Common Shares. The information as to ownership of securities which appears below is based on statements furnished to the Fund by its trustees and executive officers.

As of December 31, 2023, the dollar range of equity securities owned beneficially by each trustee in the Fund and in all registered investment companies overseen by the trustee within the same family of investment companies as the Fund appears in the chart below. The following key relates to the dollar ranges in the chart:

A. None

B. $1 — $10,000

C. $10,001 — $50,000

D. $50,001 — $100,000

E. over $100,000

---

| |
|:---|
| **Name of Trustee** |
| **Independent Trustees:** |
| Nancy Yao B D |
| P. Gerald Malone C D |
| John Sievwright D |
| Randolph Takian C |
| **Interested Trustee:** |
| Stephen Bird D |

---

(1) "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) promulgated under the 1934 Act.

(2) "Family of Investment Companies" means those registered investment companies that are advised by the Adviser or an affiliate and that hold themselves out to investors as related companies for purposes of investment and investor services.

As of May 1, 2024, none of the Independent Trustees or their immediate family members owned any shares of the Advisers or principal underwriter of the Fund or of any person (other than a registered investment company) directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the Advisers or principal underwriter.

**Codes of Ethics**

The Fund and the Advisers have each adopted a code of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act governing the personal securities transactions of their respective personnel. Under each code of ethics, personnel may invest in securities for their personal accounts (including securities that may be purchased or held by the Fund), subject to certain general restrictions and procedures. Copies of these Codes of Ethics are on the EDGAR Database on the SEC's internet site at www.sec.gov and may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request to publicinfo@sec.gov.

**Beneficial Ownership**

Based upon filings made with the SEC as of May 1, 2024, the following table shows certain information concerning persons who may be deemed beneficial owners of 5% or more of a class of shares of the Fund because they possessed or shared voting or investment power with respect to the Fund's shares:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Class** | **Name and Address** | **Number of Shares<br> Beneficially Owned** | **Percentage of Shares** |
| 5.250 A Perpetual Preferred Shares (Liquidation Preference $25.00)% Series | UBS Group AG\*<br> UBS Securities LLC\*<br> UBS Financial Services Inc.\*<br> Bahnhofstrasse 45<br> PO Box CH-8021<br> Zurich, Switzerland | 648944 | 40.56% |
| Common Stock | First Trust Portfolios L.P.\*\*<br> First Trust Advisors L.P.\*\*<br> The Charger Corporation\*\*<br> 120 East Liberty Drive, Suite 400<br> Wheaton, Illinois 60187 | 5262045 | 10.10% |

---

\* These entities jointly filed a Schedule 13G for the share amount and percentage shown as of December 29, 2023.

\*\* These entities jointly filed a Schedule 13G for the share amount and percentage shown as of December 31, 2023.

**The Adviser**

abrdn Investments Limited serves as the Adviser to the Fund and has its registered address at 10 Queen's Terrace, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom, AB10 1XL. The Adviser is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of abrdn plc, which manages or administers approximately $632.2 billion in assets as of June 30, 2023. abrdn plc and its affiliates (collectively, "abrdn") provide asset management and investment solutions for clients and customers worldwide and also have a strong position in the pensions and savings market.

**The Sub-Adviser**

abrdn Inc. serves as the sub-adviser to the Fund, pursuant to a sub-advisory agreement. The Sub-Adviser is located at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 and is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of abrdn plc.

**Advisory Agreements**

The Fund and the Adviser are parties to an advisory agreement (the "Advisory Agreement"). Under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund retains the Adviser to act as the investment adviser for and to manage the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objectives and policies and limitations, and to manage the day-to-day business and affairs of the Fund (except with respect to matters in the charge of the Fund's chief compliance officer or other service providers retained by the Fund), for the period and on the terms set forth in the Advisory Agreement.

Under the terms of the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser will (i) supervise the investment activities of the Fund, including advising and consulting with the Board as the Board may reasonably request; (ii) continuously manage the assets of the Fund in a manner consistent with the investment objectives and policies of the Fund; (iii) determine the securities to be purchased, sold or otherwise disposed of by the Fund and the timing of such purchases, sales and dispositions, including the placing of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund, as necessary or appropriate; (iv) furnish offices, facilities and equipment to the Fund to the extent necessary for the management of the Fund; and (v) render periodic reports to the Board as the Board may reasonably request regarding the Fund's investment program and the services provided by the Adviser hereunder.

The Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Fund are parties to a sub-advisory agreement (the "Sub-Advisory Agreement"). Under the Sub-Advisory Agreement, subject to the directions of the Adviser and the Board, the Adviser has retained the Sub-Adviser to monitor on a continuous basis the performance of the Fund's assets and to assist the Adviser in conducting a continuous program of investment, evaluation and, if appropriate, sale and reinvestment of the Fund's assets.

In rendering investment advisory services, the Advisers may use the resources of investment advisor subsidiaries of abrdn plc. These affiliates have entered into a memorandum of understanding / personnel sharing procedures ("MOU") pursuant to which investment professionals from each affiliate may render portfolio management, research or trading services to U.S. clients of the abrdn plc affiliates, including the Fund, as associated persons of the Adviser. Each investment professional who renders portfolio management, research or trading services under a MOU or personnel sharing arrangement must comply with the provisions of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, the 1940 Act, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Exchange Act, and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the laws of states or countries in which the Advisers do business or has clients. No remuneration is paid by the Fund with regards to the MOU/personnel sharing arrangements.

The Fund will pay all of its other expenses, including, among others, legal fees and expenses of counsel to the Fund and the Fund's independent trustees; insurance (including trustees' and officers' errors and omissions insurance); auditing and accounting expenses; taxes and governmental fees; listing fees; dues and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; fees and expenses of the Fund's custodians, administrators, transfer agents, registrars and other service providers; expenses for portfolio pricing services by a pricing agent, if any; other expenses in connection with the issuance, offering and underwriting of shares or debt instruments issued by the Fund or with the securing of any credit facility or other loans for the Fund; expenses relating to investor and public relations; expenses of registering or qualifying securities of the Fund for public sale; brokerage commissions and other costs of acquiring or disposing of any portfolio holding of the Fund; expenses of preparation and distribution of reports, notices and dividends to shareholders; expenses of the dividend reinvestment and optional cash purchase plan (except for brokerage expenses paid by participants in such plan); compensation and expenses of trustees; costs of stationery; any litigation expenses; and costs of shareholders' and other meetings.

For services under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is paid a fee computed daily and payable monthly at an annual rate of 1.25% of the Fund's average daily Managed Assets. For its services to the Fund, under a sub-advisory agreement with the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser receives 40% of the advisory fee received by the Adviser from the Fund after fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any. For its services as sub-adviser, Sub-Adviser is paid only by the Adviser out of its fees, and is not paid directly by the Fund.

The Adviser has contractually agreed to limit total "Other Expenses" of the Fund (excluding any interest, taxes, brokerage fees, short sale dividend and interest expenses and non-routine expenses) as a percentage of net assets attributable to common shares of the Fund to 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets until the end of the twelfth month following the effective date of the Fund's Registration Statement and then 0.35% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets until June 30, 2025.

The Fund repay any such reimbursement from the Adviser within three years of the reimbursement, provided that the following requirements are met: the reimbursements do not cause the Fund to exceed the lesser of the applicable expense limitation in the contract at the time the fees were limited or expenses are paid or the applicable expense limitation in effect at the time the expenses are being recouped by the Adviser.

The Advisory and Sub-Advisory Agreements continue for an initial term of two (2) years and may be continued thereafter from year to year provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually in the manner required by the 1940 Act. The Advisory and Sub-Advisory Agreements may be terminated at any time without payment of penalty by the Fund or by the Adviser upon 60 days' written notice. The Advisory and Sub-Advisory Agreements will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment, as defined under the 1940 Act. Under the Advisory and Sub-Advisory Agreements, the Advisers are permitted to provide investment advisory services to other clients.

Effective December 1, 2017, aIL became the Fund's investment adviser and abrdn Inc. became the Fund's sub-adviser. Prior to December 1, 2017, the Fund was managed by another, unaffiliated investment adviser.

For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Adviser earned gross advisory fees of $4,132,821, $4,403,179, and $5,378,613 respectively. The sub-advisory fees paid to the Sub-Adviser are paid by the Adviser from the management fee it receives. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Sub-Adviser received sub-advisory fees of $1,653,128, $1,761,272, and $2,151,445, respectively.

The Advisory and Sub-Advisory Agreements provide that the Advisers will not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law, or for any act or omission or any loss suffered by the Fund in connection with matters to which the Advisory Agreement relates, except for a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Advisers in the performance of its duties ("disabling conduct") and provides for indemnification by the Fund of the Advisers for any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (including reasonable counsel fees and expenses) not resulting from disabling conduct by the Advisers, subject to certain limitations and conditions.

**The Administrator**

abrdn Inc., located at 1900 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, serves as administrator to the Fund. Under the administration agreement, abrdn Inc. is generally responsible for managing the administrative affairs of the Fund.

For administration related services, abrdn Inc. is entitled to receive a fee that is computed monthly and paid quarterly at an annual rate of 0.125% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $1 billion, 0.10% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets in between $1 billion and $2 billion and 0.075% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets in excess of $2 billion, plus certain out-of-pocket expenses.

For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, abrdn Inc. earned $413,282, $440,318, and $537,861, respectively from the Fund for administration services.

During periods when the Fund is using leverage, the fee paid to abrdn Inc. (for various services) will be higher than if the Fund did not use leverage because the fees paid are calculated on the basis of the Fund's Managed Assets, which includes the assets purchased through leverage. See "Management of the Fund — The Administrator."

State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") serves as sub-administrator of the Fund and is paid by abrdn Inc. out of the fees it receives as the Fund's administrator.

**Custodian, Dividend Paying Agent, Transfer Agent and Registrar**

State Street serves as custodian (the "Custodian") for the Fund. State Street also provides accounting services to the Fund. State Street serves as the Fund's dividend paying agent, transfer agent and registrar.

**Investor Relations Provider**

Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement, abrdn Inc. provides and/or engages third parties to provide investor relations services to the Fund and certain other funds advised by the Adviser or its affiliates as part of an Investor Relations Program. Under the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement, the Fund owes a portion of the fees related to the Investor Relations Program (the "Fund's Portion"). However, investor relations services fees are limited by abrdn Inc. so that the Fund will only pay up to an annual rate of 0.05% of the Fund's average weekly net assets. Any difference between the capped rate of 0.05% of the Fund's average weekly net assets and the Fund's Portion is paid for by abrdn Inc.

Pursuant to the terms of the Amended and Restated Investor Relations Services Agreement, abrdn Inc. (or third parties engaged by abrdn Inc.), among other things, provides objective and timely information to stockholders based on publicly available information; provides information efficiently through the use of technology while offering stockholders immediate access to knowledgeable investor relations representatives; develops and maintains effective communications with investment professionals from a wide variety of firms; creates and maintains investor relations communication materials such as fund manager interviews, films and webcasts, published white papers, magazine articles and other relevant materials discussing the Fund's investment results, portfolio positioning and outlook; develops and maintains effective communications with large institutional shareholders; responds to specific shareholder questions; and reports activities and results to the Board and management detailing insight into general shareholder sentiment.

**Portfolio Management**

The information contained under "Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies" in the Fund's [Annual Report](http://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) is incorporated herein by reference.

Ben Pakenham, Matthew Kence, Adam Tabor, and George Westervelt are jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio.

**Potential Conflicts of Interest of the Advisers**

The Adviser and its affiliates (collectively referred to herein as "abrdn") serve as investment advisers for multiple clients, including the Fund and other investment companies registered under the 1940 Act and private funds (such clients are also referred to below as "accounts").The portfolio managers' management of "other accounts" may give rise to potential conflicts of interest in connection with their management of a Fund's investments, on the one hand, and the investments of the other accounts, on the other. The other accounts may have the same investment objective as the Fund. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the identical investment objectives, whereby the portfolio manager could favor one account over another. However, the Adviser (or Sub-adviser) believes that these risks are mitigated by the fact that: (i) accounts with like investment strategies managed by a particular portfolio manager are generally managed in a similar fashion, subject to exceptions to account for particular investment restrictions or policies applicable only to certain accounts, differences in cash flows and account sizes, and similar factors; and (ii) portfolio manager personal trading is monitored to avoid potential conflicts. In addition, the Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) has adopted trade allocation procedures that require equitable allocation of trade orders for a particular security among participating accounts.

In some cases, another account managed by the same portfolio manager may compensate abrdn based on the performance of the portfolio held by that account. The existence of such a performance-based fee may create additional conflicts of interest for the portfolio manager in the allocation of management time, resources and investment opportunities.

Another potential conflict could include instances in which securities considered as investments for the Fund also may be appropriate for other investment accounts managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. Whenever decisions are made to buy or sell securities by the Fund and one or more of the other accounts simultaneously, the Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) may aggregate the purchases and sales of the securities and will allocate the securities transactions in a manner that it believes to be equitable under the circumstances. As a result of the allocations, there may be instances where the Fund will not participate in a transaction that is allocated among other accounts. While these aggregation and allocation policies could have a detrimental effect on the price or amount of the securities available to the Fund from time to time, it is the opinion of the Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) that the benefits from the policies outweigh any disadvantage that may arise from exposure to simultaneous transactions. The Fund has adopted policies that are designed to eliminate or minimize conflicts of interest, although there is no guarantee that procedures adopted under such policies will detect each and every situation in which a conflict arises.

From time to time, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser may seed proprietary accounts for the purpose of evaluating a new investment strategy that eventually may be available to clients through one or more product structures. Such accounts also may serve the purpose of establishing a performance record for the strategy. The management by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser of accounts with proprietary interests and nonproprietary client accounts may create an incentive to favor the proprietary accounts in the allocation of investment opportunities, and the timing and aggregation of investments. The Adviser's and Sub-Adviser's proprietary seed accounts may include long-short strategies, and certain client strategies may permit short sales. A conflict of interest arises if a security is sold short at the same time as a long position, and continuous short selling in a security may adversely affect the stock price of the same security held long in client accounts. The Adviser and Sub-Adviser have adopted various policies to mitigate these conflicts.

In addition, the 1940 Act limits the Fund's ability to enter into certain transactions with certain affiliates of the Advisers. As a result of these restrictions, the Fund may be prohibited from buying or selling any security directly from or to any portfolio company of a fund managed by the Advisers or one of their affiliates. Nonetheless, the Fund may under certain circumstances purchase any such portfolio company's loans or securities in the secondary market, which could create a conflict for the Advisers between the interests of the Fund and the portfolio company, in that the ability of the Advisers to recommend actions in the best interest of the Fund might be impaired. The 1940 Act also prohibits certain "joint" transactions with certain of the Fund's affiliates (which could include other abrdn-managed funds), which could be deemed to include certain types of investments, or restructuring of investments, in the same portfolio company (whether at the same or different times). These limitations may limit the scope of investment opportunities that would otherwise be available to the Fund. The Board has approved policies and procedures reasonably designed to monitor potential conflicts of interest. The Board will review these procedures and any conflicts that may arise.

Conflicts of interest may arise where the Fund and other funds or accounts managed or administered by the Advisers simultaneously hold securities representing different parts of the capital structure of a stressed or distressed issuer. In such circumstances, decisions made with respect to the securities held by one fund or account may cause (or have the potential to cause) harm to the different class of securities of the issuer held by other fund or account (including the Fund). For example, if such an issuer goes into bankruptcy or reorganization, becomes insolvent or otherwise experiences financial distress or is unable to meet its payment obligations or comply with covenants relating to credit obligations held by the Fund or by the other funds or accounts managed by the Advisers, such other funds or accounts may have an interest that conflicts with the interests of the Fund. If additional financing for such an issuer is necessary as a result of financial or other difficulties, it may not be in the best interests of the Fund to provide such additional financing, but if the other funds or accounts were to lose their respective investments as a result of such difficulties, the Advisers may have a conflict in recommending actions in the best interests of the Fund. In such situations, the Advisers will seek to act in the best interests of each of the funds and accounts (including the Fund) and will seek to resolve such conflicts in accordance with its compliance policies and procedures.

The Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) or their respective members, officers, directors, employees, principals or affiliates may come into possession of material, non-public information. The possession of such information may limit the ability of the Fund to buy or sell a security or otherwise to participate in an investment opportunity. Situations may occur where the Fund could be disadvantaged because of the investment activities conducted by the Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) for other clients, and the Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) will not employ information barriers with regard to its operations on behalf of its registered and private funds, or other accounts. In certain circumstances, employees of the Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) may serve as board members or in other capacities for portfolio or potential portfolio companies, which could restrict the Fund's ability to trade in the securities of such companies.

**Portfolio transactions and brokerage allocation**

The Adviser (or Sub-Adviser) is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities and other investments for the Fund, the selection of brokers and dealers to effect the transactions and the negotiation of brokerage commissions, if any. In transactions on stock and commodity exchanges in the United States, these commissions are negotiated, whereas on foreign stock and commodity exchanges these commissions are generally fixed and are generally higher than brokerage commissions in the United States. In the case of securities traded on the OTC markets or for securities traded on a principal basis, there is generally no commission, but the price includes a spread between the dealer's purchase and sale price. This spread is the dealer's profit. In underwritten offerings, the price includes a disclosed, fixed commission or discount. Most short-term obligations are normally traded on a "principal" rather than agency basis. This may be done through a dealer (e.g., a securities firm or bank) who buys or sells for its own account rather than as an agent for another client, or directly with the issuer.

Except as described below, the primary consideration in portfolio security transactions is best execution of the transaction (i.e., execution at a favorable price and in the most effective manner possible). "Best execution" encompasses many factors affecting the overall benefit obtained by the client account in the transaction including, but not necessarily limited to, the price paid or received for a security, the commission charged, the promptness, available liquidity and reliability of execution, the confidentiality and placement accorded the order, and customer service. Therefore, "best execution" does not necessarily mean obtaining the best price alone but is evaluated in the context of all the execution services provided. Both the Adviser and Sub-Adviser have freedom as to the markets in and the broker-dealers through which they seek this result, except where mandates have restrictions in place.

Subject to the primary consideration of seeking best execution and as discussed below, securities may be bought or sold through broker-dealers who have furnished statistical, research, corporate access, and other information or services to the Adviser or Sub-Adviser. SEC regulations provide a "safe harbor" that allows an investment adviser to pay for research and brokerage services with commission dollars generated by client transactions. Effective with the implementation of Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II ("MiFID II"), the Adviser absorbs all research costs and will generally no longer rely on the "safe harbor" under Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

There may be occasions when portfolio transactions for a Fund are executed as part of concurrent authorizations to purchase or sell the same security for trusts or other accounts (including other mutual funds) served by the Adviser or a Sub-Adviser (if applicable) or by an affiliated company thereof. Although such concurrent authorizations potentially could be either advantageous or disadvantageous to a Fund, they are affected only when the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser (if applicable) believes that to do so is in the interest of the Fund. When such concurrent authorizations occur, the executions will be allocated in an equitable manner in accordance with the Advisers' trade allocation policies and procedures.

In purchasing and selling investments for the Fund, it is the policy of the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser to seek best execution through responsible broker-dealers. The determination of what may constitute best execution in a securities transaction by a broker involves a number of considerations, including the overall direct net economic result to the Fund (involving both price paid or received and any commissions and other costs paid), the efficiency with which the transaction is effected, the ability to effect the transaction at all when a large block is involved, the availability of the broker to stand ready to execute possibly difficult transactions in the future, the professionalism of the broker, and the financial strength and stability of the broker. These considerations are judgmental and are weighed by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in determining the overall reasonableness of securities executions and commissions paid. In selecting broker-dealers, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser will consider various relevant factors, including, but not limited to, the size and type of the transaction; the nature and character of the markets for the security or asset to be purchased or sold; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the broker dealer's firm; the broker-dealer's execution services, rendered on a continuing basis; and the reasonableness of any commissions.

With respect to FX transactions, different considerations or circumstances may apply, particularly with respect to Restricted Market FX. FX transactions executed for the Fund are divided into two main categories: (1) Restricted Market FX and (2) Unrestricted Market FX. Restricted Market FX are required to be executed by a local bank in the applicable market. Unrestricted Market FX are not required to be executed by a local bank. The Adviser, Sub-Adviser or third-party agent execute Unrestricted Market FX relating to trading decisions. The Fund's custodian executes all Restricted Market FX because it has local banks or relationships with local banks in each of the restricted markets where custodial client accounts hold securities. Unrestricted Market FX relating to the repatriation of dividends and/or income/expense items not directly relating to trading may be executed by the Adviser or Sub-Adviser or by the Fund's custodian due to the small currency amount and lower volume of such transactions. The Fund, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser have limited ability to negotiate prices at which certain FX transactions are customarily executed by the Fund's custodian, i.e., transactions in Restricted Market FX and repatriation transactions.

The Adviser or Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer a commission that is in excess of the commission another broker-dealer would have received for executing the transaction if it is determined to be consistent with the Adviser's or Sub-Adviser's obligation to seek best-execution pursuant to the standards described above.

Under the 1940 Act, "affiliated persons" of the Fund are prohibited from dealing with it as a principal in the purchase and sale of securities unless an exemptive order allowing such transactions is obtained from the SEC. However, the Fund may purchase securities from underwriting syndicates of which a sub-adviser (if applicable) or any of its affiliates, as defined in the 1940 Act, is a member under certain conditions, in accordance with Rule 10f-3 under the 1940 Act.

The Fund contemplates that, consistent with the policy of seeking to obtain best execution, brokerage transactions may be conducted through "affiliated brokers or dealers," as defined in rules under the 1940 Act. Under the 1940 Act, commissions paid by the Fund to an "affiliated broker or dealer" in connection with a purchase or sale of securities offered on a securities exchange may not exceed the usual and customary broker's commission. Accordingly, it is the Fund's policy that the commissions to be paid to an affiliated broker-dealer must, in the judgment of the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser, be (1) at least as favorable as those that would be charged by other brokers having comparable execution capability and (2) at least as favorable as commissions contemporaneously charged by such broker or dealer on comparable transactions for the broker's or dealer's unaffiliated customers. The Adviser and the Sub-Adviser do not necessarily deem it practicable or in the Fund's best interests to solicit competitive bids for commissions on each transaction. However, consideration regularly is given to information concerning the prevailing level of commissions charged on comparable transactions by other brokers during comparable periods of time.

Not one of the Fund, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser has an agreement or understanding with a broker-dealer, or other arrangements to direct the Fund's brokerage transactions to a broker-dealer because of the research services such broker provides to the Fund or the Adviser. While the Advisers do not have arrangements with any broker-dealers to direct such brokerage transactions to them because of research services provided, the Advisers may receive research services from such broker-dealers. The dollar amount of transactions and related commissions for transactions paid to a broker from which the Advisers also received research services for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023 are in the table below:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Total Dollar Amount of<br> Transactions** | **Total Commissions Paid on<br> Such Transactions** |
| $253055 | $127 |

---

During the fiscal years ended October 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the following brokerage commissions were paid by the Fund:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Year ended October 31,** | **Year ended October 31,** | **Year ended October 31,** |
| **($000 omitted)** | **($000 omitted)** | **($000 omitted)** |
| **2023** | **2022** | **2021** |
| $2 | $5 | $12 |

---

During the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023, Fund did not hold any investments in securities of its regular broker-dealers (as defined in Rule 10b-1 under the 1940 Act).

**Portfolio Turnover**

The Advisers will effect portfolio transactions without regard to holding period, if, in their judgment, such transactions are advisable in light of a change in circumstance in general market, economic or financial conditions. As a result of its investment policies, the Fund may engage in a substantial number of portfolio transactions. Accordingly, while the Fund anticipates that its annual turnover rate should not exceed 100% under normal conditions, it is impossible to predict portfolio turnover rates. The portfolio turnover rate is calculated by dividing the lesser of the Fund's annual sales or purchases of portfolio securities (exclusive of purchases or sales of securities whose maturities at the time of acquisition were one year or less) by the monthly average value of the securities in the portfolio during the year. High portfolio turnover involves correspondingly greater transaction costs in the form of dealer spreads and brokerage commissions, which are borne directly by the Fund. In addition, a high rate of portfolio turnover may result in certain tax consequences, such as increased capital gain dividends and/or ordinary income dividends.

The rate of portfolio turnover in the fiscal years ended October 31, 2023, and October 31, 2022 was 83% and 66%, respectively.

**Description of shares**

**Common Shares**

The Fund's Common Shares are described in the prospectus. The Fund intends to hold annual meetings of shareholders so long as the Common Shares are listed on a national securities exchange and such meetings are required as a condition to such listing.

**Preferred Shares**

The terms of any preferred shares issued by the Fund, including their dividend rate, voting rights, liquidation preference and redemption provisions, will be determined by the Board (subject to applicable law and the Fund's Agreement and Declaration of Trust) if and when it authorizes an offering of preferred shares. The rights, preferences, powers and privileges of such preferred shares may be set forth in an amendment or supplement to the Agreement and Declaration of Trust.

If the Board determines to proceed with an offering of preferred shares, the terms of the preferred shares may be the same as, or different from, the terms described in the prospectus, subject to applicable law and the Fund's Agreement and Declaration of Trust. The Board, without the approval of the Common Shareholders, may authorize an offering of preferred shares or may determine not to authorize such an offering, and may fix the terms of the preferred shares to be offered.

**Other Shares**

The Board (subject to applicable law and the Fund's Agreement and Declaration of Trust) may authorize an offering, without the approval of the holders of either Common Shares or preferred shares, of other classes of shares, or other classes or series of shares, as they determine to be necessary, desirable or appropriate, having such terms, rights, preferences, privileges, limitations and restrictions as the Board sees fit. The Fund currently does not expect to issue any other classes of shares, or series of shares, except for the Common Shares, and possibly, the preferred shares.

**Repurchase of Common Shares**

The Fund is a closed-end management investment company and as such its Common Shareholders will not have the right to cause the Fund to redeem their Common Shares. Instead, the Fund's Common Shares trade in the open market at a price that will be a function of several factors, including dividend levels (which are in turn affected by expenses), NAV, call protection, dividend stability, relative demand for and supply of such Common Shares in the market, general market and economic conditions and other factors. Because shares of a closed-end investment company may frequently trade at prices lower than NAV, the Board may consider actions that might be taken to reduce or eliminate any material discount from NAV in respect of Common Shares, which may include the repurchase of such Common Shares in the open market or in private transactions, the making of a tender offer for such Common Shares or the conversion of the Fund to an open-end investment company. The Board has authorized repurchases of Common Shares through open market transactions if deemed necessary or desirable in reducing the discount from NAV in the market price of Common Shares, provided that the Fund may not repurchase more than 10% of its outstanding Common Shares in any calendar year. The Board may decide not to take any of the other aforementioned actions. In addition, there can be no assurance that Common Share repurchases or tender offers, if undertaken, will reduce market discount.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time when the Fund has preferred shares outstanding, the Fund may not purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any of its Common Shares unless (1) all accrued preferred share dividends have been paid and (2) at the time of such purchase, redemption or acquisition, the NAV of the Fund's portfolio (determined after deducting the acquisition price of the Common Shares) is at least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding preferred shares (expected to equal the original purchase price per share plus any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon). Any service fees incurred in connection with any tender offer made by the Fund will be borne by the Fund and will not reduce the stated consideration to be paid to tendering Common Shareholders.

Subject to its investment restrictions, the Fund may borrow to finance the repurchase of Common Shares or to make a tender offer. Interest on any borrowings to finance Common Share repurchase transactions or the accumulation of cash by the Fund in anticipation of Common Share repurchases or tenders will reduce the Fund's net income. Any Common Share repurchase, tender offer or borrowing that might be approved by the Board would have to comply with the Exchange Act, the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.

The Fund's Board approved an open market repurchase and discount management policy (the "Program"). The Program allows the Fund to purchase, in the open market, its outstanding common shares, with the amount and timing of any repurchase determined at the discretion of the Fund's investment adviser. Such purchases may be made opportunistically at certain discounts to net asset value per share in the reasonable judgment of management based on historical discount levels and current market conditions. The Fund reports repurchase activity on the Fund's website on a monthly basis.

On a quarterly basis, the Fund's Board will receive information on any transactions made pursuant to this policy during the prior quarter and management will post the number of shares repurchased on the Fund's website on a monthly basis. Under the terms of the Program, the Fund is permitted to repurchase up to 10% of its outstanding shares of common stock in the open market during any 12 month period.

The Board currently has no intention to take any other action in response to a discount from NAV. Further, it is the Board's intention not to authorize repurchases of Common Shares or a tender offer for such Common Shares if: (1) such transactions, if consummated, would (a) result in the delisting of the Common Shares from the NYSE or (b) impair the Fund's status as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") (which would make the Fund a taxable entity, causing the Fund's income to be taxed at the trust level in addition to the taxation of shareholders who receive dividends from the Fund) or as a registered closed-end investment company under the 1940 Act; (2) the Fund would not be able to liquidate portfolio securities in an orderly manner and consistent with the Fund's investment objectives and policies in order to repurchase Common Shares; or (3) there is, in the Board's judgment, any (a) material legal action or proceeding instituted or threatened challenging such transactions or otherwise materially adversely affecting the Fund, (b) general suspension of or limitation on prices for trading securities on the NYSE, (c) declaration of a banking moratorium by Federal or state authorities or any suspension of payment by U.S. or New York banks, (d) material limitation affecting the Fund or the issuers of its portfolio securities by Federal or state authorities on the extension of credit by lending institutions or on the exchange of foreign currency, (e) commencement or continuation of war, armed hostilities or other international or national calamity directly or indirectly involving the United States or (f) other event or condition which would have a material adverse effect (including any adverse tax effect) on the Fund or its Common Shareholders if Common Shares were repurchased. Even in the absence of such conditions, the Board may decline to take action in response to a discount from NAV of the Common Shares. The Board may in the future modify these conditions in light of experience.

The repurchase by the Fund of its Common Shares at prices below NAV will result in an increase in the NAV of those Common Shares that remain outstanding. However, there can be no assurance that Common Share repurchases or tender offers at or below NAV will result in the Fund's Common Shares trading at a price equal to their NAV.

In addition, a purchase by the Fund of its Common Shares will decrease the Fund's Managed Assets which would likely have the effect of increasing the Fund's expense ratio. Any purchase by the Fund of its Common Shares at a time when preferred shares are outstanding will increase the leverage applicable to the outstanding Common Shares then remaining.

Before deciding whether to take any action if the Common Shares trade below NAV, the Board would consider all relevant factors, including the extent and duration of the discount, the liquidity of the Fund's portfolio, the impact of any action that might be taken on the Fund or its Common Shareholders and market considerations. Based on these considerations, even if the Fund's Common Shares should trade at a discount, the Board may determine that, in the interest of the Fund and its Common Shareholders, no action should be taken.

**Tax matters**

The following is a description of the material U.S. federal income tax considerations affecting the Fund and the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of owning and disposing of Common Shares. The discussion below provides general tax information related to an investment in Common Shares, but this discussion does not purport to be a complete description of the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the Common Shares. It is based on the Code and United States Treasury regulations thereunder and administrative pronouncements, all as of the date hereof, any of which is subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. In addition, it does not describe all of the tax consequences that may be relevant in light of a Common Shareholder's particular circumstances, including alternative minimum tax consequences and tax consequences applicable to Common Shareholders subject to special tax rules, such as certain financial institutions; dealers or traders in securities who use a mark-to-market method of tax accounting; persons holding Common Shares as part of a hedging transaction, wash sale, conversion transaction or integrated transaction or persons entering into a constructive sale with respect to the Common Shares; entities classified as partnerships or other pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes; real estate investment trusts; insurance companies; U.S. holders (as defined below) whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar; or tax-exempt entities, including "individual retirement accounts" or "Roth IRAs." Unless otherwise noted, the following discussion applies only to a Common Shareholder that holds Common Shares as a capital asset and is a U.S. holder. A "U.S. holder" is a holder who, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is a beneficial owner of Common Shares and is (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States; (ii) a corporation, or other entity taxable as a corporation, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States, any state therein or the District of Columbia; (iii) an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or (iv) a trust if it (x) is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (y) has a valid election in effect under applicable United States Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person. Tax laws are complex and often change, and Common Shareholders should consult their tax advisors about the U.S. federal, state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences of an investment in the Fund.

**Taxation of the Fund**

The Fund has elected to be treated as and intends to continue to qualify in each taxable year as a regulated investment company (a "RIC") under Subchapter M of the Code. To qualify as a RIC for any taxable year, the Fund must, among other things, satisfy both an income test and an asset test for such taxable year. Specifically, (i) at least 90% of the Fund's gross income for such taxable year must consist of dividends; interest; payments with respect to certain securities loans; gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies; other income (including, but not limited to, gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies; and net income derived from interests in "qualified publicly traded partnerships" (such income, "Qualifying RIC Income") and (ii) the Fund's holdings must be diversified so that, at the end of each quarter of such taxable year, (a) at least 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets is represented by cash and cash items, securities of other RICs, U.S. government securities 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 Fund's total assets and not greater than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer and (b) not more than 25% of the value of the Fund's total assets is invested (x) in securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or of two or more issuers that the Fund controls and that are engaged in the same, similar or related trades or businesses or (y) in the securities of one or more "qualified publicly traded partnerships." The Fund's share of income derived from a partnership other than a "qualified publicly traded partnership" will be treated as Qualifying RIC Income only to the extent that such income would have constituted Qualifying RIC Income if derived directly by the Fund. A "qualified publicly traded partnership" is generally defined as an entity that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes if (i) interests in such entity are traded on an established securities market or are readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof and (ii) less than 90% of its gross income for the relevant taxable year consists of Qualifying RIC Income. The Code provides that the Treasury Department may by regulation exclude from Qualifying RIC Income foreign currency gains that are not directly related to the RIC's principal business of investing in stock or securities (or options and futures with respect to stock or securities). The Fund anticipates that, in general, its foreign currency gains will be directly related to its principal business of investing in stock and securities.

As a RIC, the Fund generally is not subject to U.S. federal income tax on its "investment company taxable income" and net capital gain (that is, the excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses) that it distributes (including amounts that are reinvested pursuant to the Plan, as described below) to its shareholders, provided that it distributes on a timely basis with respect to each taxable year at least 90% of its "investment company taxable income" and its net tax-exempt interest income for such taxable year. In general, a RIC's "investment company taxable income" for any taxable year is its taxable income, determined without regard to net capital gain and with certain other adjustments. The Fund distributes, and intends to continue to distribute, all of its "investment company taxable income," net tax-exempt interest income (if any) and net capital gain on an annual basis. Any taxable income, including any net capital gain, that the Fund does not distribute to its shareholders in a timely manner will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate rates.

If the Fund retains any net capital gains for reinvestment, it may elect to treat such capital gains as having been distributed to its shareholders. If the Fund makes such an election, each shareholder will be required to report its share of such undistributed net capital gain as long-term capital gain and will be entitled to claim its share of the U.S. federal income taxes paid by the Fund on such undistributed net capital gain as a credit against its own U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, and to claim a refund on a properly filed U.S. federal income tax return to the extent that the credit exceeds such liability. In addition, each shareholder will be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis of its Common Shares by the difference between its share of such undistributed net capital gain and the related credit. There can be no assurance that the Fund will make this election if it retains all or a portion of its net capital gain for a taxable year.

In determining its net capital gain, including in connection with determining the amount available to support a capital gain dividend, its taxable income and its earnings and profits, the Fund generally may elect to treat part or all of any post-October capital loss (defined as any net capital loss attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after October 31 or, if there is no such loss, the net long-term capital loss or net short-term capital loss attributable to any such portion of the taxable year) or late-year ordinary loss (generally, the sum of its (i) net ordinary loss, if any, from the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of property, attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after October 31, and its (ii) other net ordinary loss, if any, attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after December 31) as if incurred in the succeeding taxable year.

The Fund is generally permitted to carry forward a net capital loss in any taxable year to offset its own capital gains, if any. These amounts are available to be carried forward to offset future capital gains to the extent permitted by the Code and applicable tax regulations. Any such loss carryforwards will retain their character as short-term or long-term. In the event that the Fund were to experience an ownership change as defined under the Code, the capital loss carryforwards and other favorable tax attributes of the Fund, if any, may be subject to limitation.

A RIC will be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on certain amounts that it fails to distribute during each calendar year. In order to avoid this excise tax, a RIC must distribute during each calendar year an amount at least equal to the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary taxable income (taking into account certain deferrals and elections) for the calendar year; (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain net income for the one-year period ended on October 31 of the calendar year and (iii) any ordinary income and capital gains for previous years that were not distributed during those years. For purposes of determining whether the Fund has met this distribution requirement, (i) certain ordinary gains and losses that would otherwise be taken into account for the portion of the calendar year after October 31 will be treated as arising on January 1 of the following calendar year and (ii) the Fund will be deemed to have distributed any income or gains on which it paid U.S. federal income tax in the taxable year ending within the relevant calendar year. The Fund intends generally to make distributions sufficient to permit it to avoid the imposition of this excise tax, but there can be no assurance in this regard.

If the Fund failed to qualify as a RIC or failed to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement in any taxable year, the Fund would be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate rates on its taxable income, including its net capital gain, even if such income were distributed to its shareholders, and all distributions out of earnings and profits would be taxed to shareholders as ordinary dividend income. Such distributions generally would be eligible for the dividends-received deduction in the case of corporate shareholders and may also be eligible for treatment by non-corporate shareholders as "qualified dividend income," provided in each case that certain holding period and other requirements were satisfied. In addition, the Fund could be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay taxes and make distributions (any of which could be subject to interest charges) before re-qualifying for taxation as a RIC. If the Fund fails to satisfy the income test or diversification test described above, however, it may in certain circumstances be able to avoid losing its status as a RIC by timely providing notice of such failure to the Internal Revenue Service, curing such failure and possibly paying an additional tax.

Some of the investments that the Fund is expected to make, such as investments in debt securities that are treated as issued with original issue discount, will cause the Fund to recognize income or gain for U.S. federal income tax purposes prior to the receipt of any corresponding cash or other property. Because the distribution requirements described above will apply to this income, the Fund may be required to borrow money or dispose of other securities at disadvantageous times in order to make the relevant distributions.

If the Fund utilizes leverage through the issuance of preferred shares or borrowings, it will be prohibited from declaring a distribution or dividend if it would fail the applicable asset coverage test(s) under the 1940 Act after the payment of such distribution or dividend. In addition, certain covenants in credit facilities or indentures may impose greater restrictions on the Fund's ability to declare and pay dividends on Common Shares. See "Investment objectives and principal investment strategy." Limits on the Fund's ability to pay dividends on Common Shares may prevent the Fund from meeting the distribution requirements described above, and may therefore jeopardize the Fund's qualification for taxation as a RIC or subject the Fund to income or excise tax on undistributed income. The Fund will endeavor to avoid restrictions on its ability to make dividend payments. If the Fund is precluded from making distributions on the Common Shares because of any applicable asset coverage requirements, the terms of the preferred shares (if any) may provide that any amounts so precluded from being distributed, but required to be distributed for the Fund to meet the distribution requirements for qualification as a RIC, will be paid to the holders of the preferred shares as a special distribution. This distribution can be expected to decrease the amount that holders of preferred shares would be entitled to receive upon redemption or liquidation of the shares.

The Fund may invest in certain options, futures or forward currency contracts to hedge the Fund's portfolio or for any other permissible purposes consistent with the Fund's investment objective. If the Fund makes these investments, it could be required to mark-to-market these contracts and realize any unrealized gains and losses at its fiscal year end even though it continues to hold the contracts. Under these rules, gains or losses on the contracts generally would be treated as 60% long-term and 40% short-term gains or losses, but gains or losses on certain foreign currency contracts would be treated as ordinary income or losses. In determining its net income for excise tax purposes, the Fund also would be required to mark-to-market these contracts annually as of October 31 (for capital gain net income and ordinary income arising from certain foreign currency contracts), and to realize and distribute any resulting income and gains.

The Fund's entry into a short sale transaction or an option or other contract could be treated as the "constructive sale" of an "appreciated financial position," causing it to realize gain, but not loss, on the position. Additionally, the Fund's entry into securities lending transactions may cause the replacement income earned on the loaned securities to fall outside of the definition of qualified dividend income and to fail to qualify for the dividends received deduction. This replacement income generally will not be eligible for reduced rates of taxation on qualified dividend income, and, to the extent that debt securities are loaned, will generally not qualify as qualified interest income for foreign withholding tax purposes.

Certain of the Fund's investments are expected to be subject to special 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 gain or qualified dividend income into higher-taxed short-term capital gain or ordinary income; (iii) convert an ordinary loss or a deduction into a capital loss, the deductibility of which is more limited; (iv) adversely affect when a purchase or sale of stock or securities is deemed to occur; (v) adversely alter the intended characterization of certain complex financial transactions; (vi) cause the Fund to recognize income or gain without a corresponding receipt of cash and (vii) produce income that will not constitute Qualifying RIC Income. The application of these rules could cause the Fund to be subject to U.S. federal income tax or the nondeductible 4% excise tax and, under certain circumstances, could affect the Fund's status as a RIC. The Fund monitors its investments and may make certain tax elections in order to mitigate the effect of these provisions. Moreover, there may be uncertainty as to the appropriate treatment of certain of the Fund's investments for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In particular, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of investments in debt securities that are rated below investment grade is uncertain in various respects.

**Distributions**

Distributions of the Fund's ordinary income and net short-term capital gains will, except as described below with respect to distributions of "qualified dividend income," generally be taxable to the Common Shareholders as ordinary income to the extent such distributions are paid out of the Fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Distributions (or deemed distributions, as described above), if any, of net capital gains will be taxable as long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time the Common Shareholder has owned Common Shares. The ultimate tax characterization of the Fund's distributions made in a taxable year cannot be determined until after the end of the taxable year. As a result, there is a possibility that the Fund may make total distributions during a taxable year in an amount that exceeds the current and accumulated earnings and profits of the Fund. A distribution of an amount in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will be treated by a Common Shareholder as a return of capital that will be applied against and reduce the Common Shareholder's basis in its Common Shares. To the extent that the amount of any such distribution exceeds the Common Shareholder's basis in its Common Shares, the excess will be treated as gain from a sale or exchange of the Common Shares. If the Fund issues preferred shares, its earnings and profits must be allocated first to such preferred shares, and then to the Common Shares, in each case on a pro rata basis.

It is expected that a very substantial portion of the Fund's income will consist of ordinary income. For example, interest and original issue discount derived by the Fund will constitute ordinary income. In addition, gain derived by the Fund from the disposition of debt securities with "market discount" (generally, securities purchased by the Fund at a discount to their stated redemption price) will be treated as ordinary income to the extent of the market discount that has accrued, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes, at the time of such disposition unless the Fund makes an election to accrue market discount on a current basis. In addition, certain of the Fund's investments will be subject to special U.S. federal income tax provisions that may affect the character, increase the amount and/or accelerate the timing of income earned by the Fund.

Dividends distributed by the Fund to a corporate Common Shareholder will qualify for the dividends-received deduction only to the extent that the dividends consist of distributions of qualifying dividends received by the Fund. In addition, any such dividends-received deduction will be disallowed or reduced if the corporate Common Shareholder fails to satisfy certain requirements, including a holding period requirement, with respect to its Common Shares. Distributions of "qualified dividend income" to an individual or other non-corporate Common Shareholder made or deemed made by the Fund will be subject to tax at reduced maximum rates (depending on whether the shareholder's income exceeds certain threshold amounts), provided that the shareholder meets certain holding period and other requirements with respect to its Common Shares. "Qualified dividend income" generally includes dividends from domestic corporations and dividends from foreign corporations that meet certain specified criteria. Given the Fund's investment strategy, it is not expected that a large portion of the distributions made by the Fund will be eligible for the dividends-received deduction (in the case of corporate shareholders) or for treatment as "qualified dividend income" (in the case of individual shareholders).

Certain distributions reported by the Fund as Section 163(j) interest dividends may be treated as interest income by shareholders for purposes of the tax rules applicable to interest expense limitations under Section 163(j) of the Code. Such treatment by the shareholder is generally subject to holding period requirements and other potential limitations, although the holding period requirements are generally not applicable to dividends declared by money market funds and certain other funds that declare dividends daily and pay such dividends on a monthly or more frequent basis. The amount that the Fund is eligible to report as a Section 163(j) dividend for a tax year is generally limited to the excess of the Fund's business interest income over the sum of the Fund's (i) business interest expense and (ii) other deductions properly allocable to the Fund's business interest income.

Distributions will be treated in the manner described above regardless of whether such distributions are paid in cash or invested in additional Common Shares pursuant to the Plan. If the Common Shares are trading below NAV, Common Shareholders receiving distributions in the form of additional Common Shares will be treated as receiving a distribution in the amount of cash that they would have received if they had elected to receive the distribution in cash. If the Fund issues additional Common Shares with a fair market value equal to or greater than NAV, however, Common Shareholders will be treated as receiving a distribution in the amount of the fair market value of the distributed Common Shares.

Although dividends generally will be treated as distributed when paid, dividends declared in October, November or December, payable to Common Shareholders of record on a specified date in one of those months, and paid during the following January, will be treated as having been distributed by the Fund (and received by Common Shareholders) on December 31 of the year in which declared.

The Internal Revenue Service currently requires that a RIC that has two or more classes of stock allocate to each class proportionate amounts of each type of its income (such as ordinary income, capital gains and dividends qualifying for the dividends-received deduction) based upon the percentage of total dividends paid to each class for the tax year. Accordingly, if the Fund issues preferred shares, the Fund will allocate capital gain dividends and dividends qualifying for the dividends-received deduction, if any, between its Common Shares and shares of preferred stock in proportion to the total dividends paid to each class with respect to such tax year.

Common Shareholders will be notified annually as to the U.S. federal tax status of distributions, and Common Shareholders receiving distributions in the form of additional Common Shares will receive a report as to the NAV of those Common Shares.

**Medicare Tax**

An additional 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on certain net investment income (including ordinary dividends and capital gain distributions received from the Fund and net gains from redemptions or other taxable dispositions of Fund shares) of U.S. individuals, estates and trusts to the extent that such person's "modified adjusted gross income" (in the case of an individual) or "adjusted gross income" (in the case of an estate or trust) exceed certain threshold amounts.

**Sale or Exchange of Common Shares**

A Common Shareholder may recognize capital gain or loss on the sale or other disposition of Common Shares. Different tax consequences may apply for tendering and non-tendering Common Shareholders in connection with a repurchase offer. For example, if a Common Shareholder does not tender all of his or her Common Shares, such repurchase may not be treated as a sale or exchange for U.S. federal income tax purposes and may result in deemed distributions to non-tendering Common Shareholders. On the other hand, Common Shareholders holding Common Shares as capital assets who tender all of their Common Shares (including Common Shares deemed owned by Common Shareholders under constructive ownership rules) will be treated as having sold their Common Shares and generally will recognize capital gain or loss. The amount of the gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount realized and the Common Shareholder's adjusted tax basis in the relevant Common Shares. Such gain or loss generally will be a long-term gain or loss if the Common Shareholder's holding period for such Common Shares is more than one (1) year. Under current law, net capital gains recognized by non-corporate Common Shareholders are generally subject to reduced maximum rates, depending on whether the Common Shareholder's income exceeds certain threshold amounts.

Losses realized by a Common Shareholder on the sale or exchange of Common Shares held for six months or less will be treated as long-term capital losses to the extent of any distribution of long-term capital gain received (or deemed received, as discussed above) with respect to such Common Shares. In addition, no loss will be allowed on a sale or other disposition of Common Shares if the Common Shareholder acquires (including pursuant to the Plan), or enters into a contract or option to acquire, Common Shares within 30 days before or after the disposition. In such a case, the basis of the securities acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.

Reporting of adjusted cost basis information for covered securities, which generally include shares of a regulated investment company acquired after January 1, 2012, is required to the Internal Revenue Service and to taxpayers. Common Shareholders should contact their financial intermediaries with respect to reporting of cost basis and available elections for their accounts.

**Tax Shelter Reporting Regulations**

Under U.S. Treasury regulations, if a Common Shareholder recognizes losses with respect to Common Shares of $2 million or more for an individual Common Shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate Common Shareholder, the Common Shareholder must file with the Internal Revenue Service a disclosure statement on Internal Revenue Service Form 8886. Direct owners of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current guidance, shareholders of a RIC are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all RICs. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayer's treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.

**Backup Withholding and Information Reporting**

Information returns will be filed with the Internal Revenue Service in connection with payments on the Common Shares and the proceeds from a sale or other disposition of the Common Shares. A Common Shareholder will be subject to backup withholding (currently, at a rate of 24%) on all such payments if it fails to provide the payor with its correct taxpayer identification number (generally on an Internal Revenue Service Form W-9) and to make required certifications or otherwise establish an exemption from backup withholding. Corporate Common Shareholders and certain other Common Shareholders generally are exempt from backup withholding. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld pursuant to these rules may be credited against the applicable Common Shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is timely furnished to the Internal Revenue Service.

**Non-U.S. Common Shareholders**

The U.S. federal income taxation of a Common Shareholder that is a nonresident alien individual, a foreign trust or estate or a foreign corporation, as defined for U.S. federal income tax purposes (a "non-U.S. Common Shareholder") depends on whether the income that the Common Shareholder derives from the Fund is "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business carried on by the Common Shareholder.

If the income that a non-U.S. Common Shareholder derives from the Fund is not "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business carried on by such non-U.S. Common Shareholder, distributions of "investment company taxable income" will generally be subject to a U.S. federal withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or a lower rate under an applicable treaty).

Properly reported dividends received by a nonresident alien or foreign entity are generally exempt from U.S. federal withholding tax when they (a) are paid in respect of the Fund's "qualified net interest income" (generally, the Fund's U.S. source interest income, reduced by expenses that are allocable to such income), or (b) are paid in connection with the Fund's "qualified short-term capital gains" (generally, the excess of the Fund's net short-term capital gain over the Fund's long-term capital loss for such taxable year). However, depending on the circumstances, the Fund may report all, some or none of the Fund's potentially eligible dividends as such qualified net interest income or as qualified short-term capital gains, and a portion of the Fund's distributions (e.g., interest from non-U.S. sources or any foreign currency gains) would be ineligible for this potential exemption from withholding.

A non-U.S. Common Shareholder whose income from the Fund is not "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business (or, if an income tax treaty is applicable, is not attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the non-U.S. Common Shareholder in the United States) will generally be exempt from U.S. federal income tax on capital gain dividends, any amounts retained by the Fund that are reported as undistributed capital gains and any gains realized upon the sale or exchange of shares of the Fund. If, however, such a non-U.S. Common Shareholder is a nonresident alien individual and is physically present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year and meets certain other requirements, such capital gain dividends, undistributed capital gains and gains from the sale or exchange of Common Shares will be subject to U.S. tax.

If the income from the Fund is "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business carried on by a non-U.S. Common Shareholder (and, if an income tax treaty is applicable, is attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the non-U.S. Common Shareholder in the United States), any distributions of "investment company taxable income," any capital gain dividends, any amounts retained by the Fund that are reported as undistributed capital gains and any gains realized upon the sale or exchange of shares of the Fund will be subject to U.S. income tax, on a net income basis, in the same manner, and at the graduated rates applicable to, U.S. persons. If such a non-U.S. Common Shareholder is a corporation, it may also be subject to the U.S. branch profits tax.

A non-U.S. Common Shareholder other than a corporation may be subject to backup withholding on net capital gain distributions that are otherwise exempt from withholding tax or on distributions that would otherwise be taxable at a reduced treaty rate if such Common Shareholder does not certify its non-U.S. status under penalties of perjury or otherwise establish an exemption.

A non-U.S. Shareholder may also be subject to U.S. estate tax with respect to their Fund shares.

The tax consequences to a non-U.S. Common Shareholder entitled to claim the benefits of an applicable tax treaty may differ from those described herein. Non-U.S. Common Shareholders are advised to consult their tax advisors with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the Fund.

In addition, the Fund is required to withhold U.S. tax (at a 30% rate) on payments of taxable dividends made to certain non-U.S. entities that fail to comply (or be deemed compliant) with extensive reporting and withholding requirements designed to inform the U.S. Department of the Treasury of U.S.-owned foreign investment accounts. To avoid withholding, foreign financial institutions will need to (i) enter into agreements with the IRS that state that they will provide the IRS information, including the names, addresses and taxpayer identification numbers of direct and indirect U.S. account holders, comply with due diligence procedures with respect to the identification of U.S. accounts, report to the IRS certain information with respect to U.S. accounts maintained, agree to withhold tax on certain payments made to non-compliant foreign financial institutions or to account holders who fail to provide the required information, and determine certain other information as to their account holders, or (ii) in the event that an applicable intergovernmental agreement and implementing legislation are adopted, provide local revenue authorities with similar account holder information. Other foreign entities will need to either provide the name, address, and taxpayer identification number of each substantial U.S. owner or certifications of no substantial U.S. ownership unless certain exceptions apply. Under some circumstances, a foreign shareholder may be eligible for refunds or credits of such taxes.

**Other Taxes**

Common Shareholders may be subject to state, local and non U.S. taxes on their Fund distributions. Common Shareholders are advised to consult their tax advisors with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the Fund.

**Proxy voting policy and proxy voting record**

The Board has delegated the day-to-day responsibility to the Advisers to vote the Fund's proxies. Proxies are voted by the Advisers pursuant to the Board approved proxy guidelines, a copy of which as currently in effect as of the date of this SAI is attached hereto as Appendix B. Also attached hereto in Appendix B is the Advisers' Listed Company Stewardship Guidelines, which among other things, expands upon how the Advisers approach environmental, social and governance issues when engaging with company management and voting proxies.

Information on how the Fund voted proxies (if any) relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12 month period ending June 30 is available: (i) upon request and without charge by calling Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465, or (ii) on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.

**Incorporation by reference**

This SAI is part of a Registration Statement that the Fund has filed with the SEC. The Fund is permitted to "incorporate by reference" the information that it files with the SEC, which means that the Fund can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is an important part of this SAI, and later information that the Fund 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 this Registration Statement and prior to its effectiveness, are incorporated by reference into this SAI and deemed to be part of this SAI from the date of the filing of such reports and documents:

● the Fund's Annual Report on [Form N-CSR](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on January 8, 2021 ("Annual Report");

● the Fund's definitive proxy statement on [Schedule 14A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465924044658/tm2410797d1_def14a.htm) for the Fund's 2024 annual meeting of shareholders, filed with the SEC on April 8, 2024 ("Proxy Statement"); and

● the Fund's description of common shares contained in the Fund's Registration Statement on [Form 8-A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000095010311000228/dp20758_8a12b.htm) (File No. 001-35051) filed with the SEC on January 24, 2011.

● the Fund's description of 5.25% Series A Perpetual Preferred Stock contained in the Fund's Registration Statement on [Form 8-A](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1503290/000110465921063024/tm2115392d1_8a12b.htm) (File No. 001-35051) filed with the SEC on May 7, 2021.

To obtain copies of these filings, see "Additional Information."

**Financial Statements**

The Fund's [financial statements](https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001503290/000110465924002184/tm2327714d1_ncsr.htm) for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023, together with the report thereon of KPMG LLP ("KPMG"), an independent registered public accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting are incorporated in this SAI by reference. The address of KPMG is 1601 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103. KPMG provides audit services and consultation with respect to the preparation of filings with the SEC.

A copy of the Fund's 2023 Annual Report is available at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

**Legal counsel**

Counsel to the Fund is Dechert LLP.

**Additional information**

The Prospectus and this SAI do not contain all of the information set forth in the Registration Statement, including any exhibits and schedules thereto. The Fund 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 or the Prospectus or any accompanying Prospectus Supplement. You may request such information by calling Investor Relations toll-free at 1-800-522-5465, or you may obtain a copy (and other information regarding the Fund**)** from the SEC's website (www.sec.gov). Free copies of the Fund's Prospectus, SAI and any incorporated information will also be available from the Fund's website at <u>https://www.aberdeeninvestments.com/en-us/investor/investment-solutions/closed-end-funds</u>. Information contained on the Fund'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.

**Appendix A—Description of securities ratings**

**S&P GLOBAL RATINGS DEBT RATINGS**

**A.** **Issue Credit Ratings** 

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 ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market. Short-term ratings are also used to indicate the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to put features on long-term obligations. Medium-term notes are assigned long-term ratings.

**1.** **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 commitments on an obligation in accordance with the terms of the obligation;

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

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

Issue ratings are 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 the 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.)

**Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings\***

AAA - An obligor rated 'AAA' has extremely strong capacity to meet its financial commitments. 'AAA' is the highest issuer credit rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings. AA - An obligor rated 'AA' has very strong capacity to meet its financial commitments. It differs from the highest-rated obligors only to a small degree.

AA- An obligor rated 'AA' has very strong capacity to meet its financial commitments. It differs from the highest rated obligors only in small degree.

A - An obligor rated 'A' has strong capacity to meet its financial commitments but is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligors in higher-rated categories.

BBB - An obligor rated 'BBB' has adequate capacity to meet its financial commitments. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments.

Obligors rated 'BB', 'B', 'CCC', and 'CC' are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. 'BB' indicates the least degree of speculation and 'CC' the highest. While such obligors will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposure to adverse conditions.BB - An obligor rated 'BB' is less vulnerable in the near term than other lower-rated obligors. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties and exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.

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

CCC - An obligor rated 'CCC' is currently vulnerable and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to meet its financial commitments.

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 – A subordinated debt or preferred stock obligation rated 'C' is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The 'C' rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed or similar action taken, but payments on this obligation are being continued. A 'C' also will be assigned to a preferred stock issue in arrears on dividends or sinking fund payments, but that is currently paying.

R - An obligor rated 'R' is under regulatory supervision owing to its financial condition. During the pendency of the regulatory supervision, the regulators may have the power to favor one class of obligations over others or pay some obligations and not others.

SD and D - An obligor rated 'SD' (selective default) or 'D' has failed to pay one or more of its financial obligations (rated or unrated) when it came due. A 'D' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the default will be a general default and that the obligor will fail to pay all or substantially all of its obligations as they come due. An 'SD' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the obligor has selectively defaulted on a specific issue or class of obligations but it will continue to meet its payment obligations on other issues or classes of obligations in a timely manner.

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

\* 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.

**2.** **Short-Term Issue Credit Ratings** 

**Short-Term Issue Credit Ratings**

A-1 - An obligor rated 'A-1' has strong capacity to meet its financial commitments. It is rated in the highest category by S&P Global Ratings. Within this category, certain obligors are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments is extremely strong.

A-2 - An obligor rated 'A-2' has satisfactory capacity to meet its financial commitments. However, it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligors in the highest rating category.

A-3 - An obligor rated 'A-3' has adequate capacity to meet its financial obligations. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments.

B - An obligor 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 that could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.

B-1 – A short-term obligation rated 'B-1' is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics, but the obligor has a relatively stronger capacity to meet its financial commitments over the short-term compared to other speculative-grade obligors.

B-2 – A short-term obligation rated 'B-2' is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics, and the obligor has an average speculative-grade capacity to meet its financial commitments over the short-term compared to other speculative-grade obligors.

B-3 – A short-term obligation rated 'B-3' is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics, and the obligor has a relatively weaker capacity to meet its financial commitments over the short-term compared to other speculative-grade obligors.

C - An obligor rated 'C' is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The 'C' rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed or similar action taken, but payments on this obligation are being continued. A 'C' also will be assigned to a preferred stock issue in arrears on dividends or sinking fund payments, but that is currently paying.

R - An obligor rated 'R' is under regulatory supervision owing to its financial condition. During the pendency of the regulatory supervision, the regulators may have the power to favor one class of obligations over others or pay some obligations and not others.

SD and D - An obligor is rated 'SD' (selective default) or 'D' has failed to pay one or more of its financial obligations (rated or unrated) when it came due. A 'D' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the default will be a general default and that the obligor will fail to pay all or substantially all of its obligations as they come due. An 'SD' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the obligor has selectively defaulted on a specific issue or class of obligations but it will continue to meet its payment obligations on other issues or classes of obligations in a timely manner.

NR - Indicates that a rating has not been assigned or is no longer assigned

**B.** **Municipal Short-Term Note Ratings** 

An S&P Global Ratings U.S. municipal note rating reflects S&P Global Ratings' opinion about the liquidity factors and market access risks unique to the notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes with an original maturity of more than three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. In determining which type of rating, if any, to assign, S&P Global Ratings' analysis will review the following considerations:

● Amortization schedule—the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note; and

● Source of payment—the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.

**Municipal Short-Term Note Ratings**

SP-1 - Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+) designation.

SP-2 - Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.

SP-3 - Speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.

D - 'D' is assigned upon failure to pay the note when due, completion of a distressed exchange offer, or 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.

**MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE INC. ("Moody's") LONG-TERM DEBT RATINGS\***

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 speculative 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 and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal and interest.

\* 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.

**STATE AND MUNICIPAL NOTES**

Excerpts from Moody's description of state and municipal note ratings:

MIG 1 This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.

MIG 2 This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.

MIG 3 This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.

SG This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.

**FITCH, INC. BOND RATINGS**

Fitch's credit ratings relating to issuers are an opinion on the relative ability of an entity to meet financial commitments, such as interest, preferred dividends, repayment of principal, insurance claims or counterparty obligations. Credit ratings relating to securities and obligations of an issuer can include a recovery expectation. Credit ratings are used by investors as indications of the likelihood of receiving the money owed to them in accordance with the terms on which they invested. The agency's credit ratings cover the global spectrum of corporate, sovereign financial, bank, insurance, and public finance entities (including supranational and sub-national entities) and the securities or other obligations they issue, as well as structured finance securities backed by receivables or other financial assets. 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' 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' 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' 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' 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. '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 - Default is a real possibility. CC - Default of some kind appears probable.

C - 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. 'RD' ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch's opinion has experienced: a) an uncured payment default or distressed debt exchange on a bond, loan or other material financial obligation, but b) has not entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation, or other formal winding-up procedure, and c) has not otherwise ceased operating.

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

**MOODY'S**

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 and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default.

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 aspires to achieve broad expected equivalence in structured finance and fundamental rating performance when measured over a long period of time.

**GLOBAL SHORT-TERM RATING SCALE**

P-1 Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

P-2 Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

P-3 Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have 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.S. MUNICIPAL SHORT-TERM DEBT AND DEMAND OBLIGATION RATINGS**

**SHORT-TERM OBLIGATION RATINGS**

While the global short-term 'prime' rating scale is applied to US municipal tax-exempt commercial paper, these programs are typically backed by external letters of credit or liquidity facilities and their short-term prime ratings usually map to the long-term rating of the enhancing bank or financial institution and not to the municipality's rating. Other short-term municipal obligations, which generally have different funding sources for repayment, are rated using two additional short-term rating scales (*i.e.*, the MIG and VMIG scales discussed below).

The Municipal Investment Grade (MIG) scale is used to rate US municipal bond anticipation notes of up to three years maturity. Municipal notes rated on the MIG scale may be secured by either pledged revenues or proceeds of a take-out financing received prior to note maturity. MIG ratings expire at the maturity of the obligation, and the issuer's long-term rating is only one consideration in assigning the MIG rating. MIG ratings are divided into three levels—MIG 1 through MIG 3—while speculative grade short-term obligations are designated SG.

MIG 1 This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.

MIG 2 This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.

MIG 3 This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.

SG This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.

**FITCH'S SHORT-TERM RATINGS**

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 - Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.

F2 - Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.

F3 - The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.

B - Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.

C — Default is a real possibility.

RD — 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 — Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation.

**Appendix B—Proxy voting guidelines**

**U.S. Registered Advisers (the "abrdn Advisers")**

**Proxy Voting Guidelines**

*Effective as of October 26, 2022*

Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act") requires the abrdn Advisers to vote proxies in a manner consistent with clients' best interest and must not place its interests above those of its clients when doing so. It requires the abrdn Advisers to: (i) adopt and implement written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to ensure that the abrdn Advisers vote proxies in the best interest of the clients, and (ii) to disclose to the clients how they may obtain information on how the abrdn Advisers voted proxies. In addition, Rule 204-2 requires the abrdn Advisers to keep records of proxy voting and client requests for information.

As registered investment advisers, the abrdn Advisers have an obligation to vote proxies with respect to securities held in its client portfolios in the best interests of the clients for which it has proxy voting authority.

The abrdn Advisers are committed to exercising responsible ownership with a conviction that companies adopting best practices in corporate governance will be more successful in their core activities and deliver enhanced returns to shareholders.

The abrdn Advisers have adopted a proxy voting policy. The proxy voting policy is designed and implemented in a way that is reasonably expected to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interests of clients.

Resolutions are analysed by a member of our regional investment teams or our Active Ownership Team and votes instructed following consideration of our policies, our views of the company and our investment insights. To enhance our analysis, we will often engage with a company prior to voting to understand additional context and explanations, particularly where there is a deviation from what we believe to be best practice.

Where contentious issues arise in relation to motions put before a shareholders' meeting, abrdn Advisers will usually contact the management of the company to exchange views and give management the opportunity to articulate its position. The long-term nature of the relationships that we develop with investee company boards should enable us to deal with any concerns that we may have over strategy, the management of risk or governance practices directly with the chairman or senior independent director. In circumstances where this approach is unsuccessful, abrdn Advisers are prepared to escalate their intervention by expressing their concerns through the company's advisers, through interaction with other shareholders or attending and speaking at General Meetings.

In managing third party money on behalf of clients, there are a limited number of situations where potential conflicts of interest could arise in the context of proxy voting. One case is where funds are invested in companies that are either clients or related parties of clients. Another case is where one fund managed by abrdn invests in other funds managed by abrdn.

For cases involving potential conflicts of interest, abrdn Advisers have implemented procedures to ensure the appropriate handling of proxy voting decisions. The guiding principle of abrdn Advisers' conflicts of interest policy is simple – to exercise our right to vote in the best interests of the clients on whose behalf we are managing funds.

We employ ISS as a service provider to facilitate electronic voting. We require ISS to provide recommendations based on our own set of parameters to tailored abrdn's assessment and approach but remain conscious always that all voting decisions are our own on behalf of our clients. We consider ISS's recommendations and those based on our custom parameters as input to our voting decisions. We make use of the ISS standard research and recommendations and those based on our own custom policy as input to our voting decisions. Where our analysts make a voting decision that is different from the recommendations based on our custom policy they will provide a rationale for such decisions which will be made publicly available in our voting disclosures.

In order to make proxy voting decisions, an abrdn analyst will assess the resolutions at general meetings in our active investment portfolios. This analysis will be based on our knowledge of the company, but will also make use of the custom and standard recommendations provided by ISS as described above. The product of this analysis will be final voting decision instructed through ISS applied to all funds for which abrdn have been appointed to vote. For funds managed by a sub-adviser, we may delegate to the sub-adviser the authority to vote proxies; however, the sub-adviser will be required to either follow our policies and procedures or to demonstrate that their policies and procedures are consistent with ours, or otherwise implemented in the best interest of clients.

There may be certain circumstances where abrdn may take a more limited role in voting proxies. We will not vote proxies for client accounts in which the client contract specifies that abrdn will not vote. We may abstain from voting a client proxy if the voting is uneconomic or otherwise not in clients' best interests. For companies held only in passively managed portfolios the abrdn custom recommendations provided by ISS will be used to automatically apply our voting approach; we have scope to intervene to test that this delivers appropriate results, and will on occasions intrude to apply a vote more fully in clients' best interests. If voting securities are part of a securities lending program, we may be unable to vote while the securities are on loan. However, we have the ability to recall shares on loan or to restrict lending when required, in order to ensure all shares have voted. In addition, certain jurisdictions may impose share-blocking restrictions at various times which may prevent abrdn from exercising our voting authority.

We recognize that there may be situations in which we vote at a company meeting where we encounter a conflict of interest. Such situations include:

● where a portfolio manager owns the holding in a personal account

● An investee company that is also a segregated client

● An investee company where an executive director or officer of our company is also a director of that company

● An investee company where an employee of abrdn is a director of that company

● A significant distributor of our products

● Any other companies which may be relevant from time to time

In order to manage such conflicts of interests, we have established procedures to escalate decision-making so as to ensure that our voting decisions are based on our clients' best interests and are not impacted by any conflict.

The implementation of this policy, along with conflicts of interest, will be reviewed periodically by the Active Ownership team. abrdn's Global ESG Principles & Voting Policies are published on our website.

To the extent that an abrdn Adviser may rely on sub-advisers, whether affiliated or unaffiliated, to manage any client portfolio on a discretionary basis, the abrdn Adviser may delegate responsibility for voting proxies to the sub-adviser. However, such sub-advisers will be required either to follow these Policies and Procedures or to demonstrate that their proxy voting policies and procedures are consistent with these Policies and Procedures or otherwise implemented in the best interests of the abrdn Advisers' clients. Clients that have not granted abrdn voting authority over securities held in their accounts will receive their proxies in accordance with the arrangements they have made with their service providers.

As disclosed in Part 2A of each abrdn Adviser's Form ADV, a client may obtain information on how its proxies were voted by requesting such information from its abrdn Adviser. Unless specifically requested by a client in writing, and other than as required for the Funds, the abrdn Advisers do not generally disclose client-specific proxy votes to third parties.

Our proxy voting records are available per request and on the SEC's website at SEC.gov.

On occasions when it is deemed to be a fiduciary for an ERISA client's assets, abrdn will vote the Plan assets in accordance with abrdn's Proxy Voting Policy and in line with DOL guidance.

![](image_003.jpg)

**Contents**

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Introduction | 3 | Dividends | 14 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Our expectations | 3 | Share Capital | 14 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Our approach to stewardship | 3 | Share Issuance | 15 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Engagement | 4 | Buyback | 15 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Proxy Voting | 5 | Related Party Transactions | 15 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Voting Process | 5 | Article / Bylaw amendments | 15 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| **Governance** | **6** | Anti-Takeover Defences | 15 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Strategy | 7 | Voting Rights | 16 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Board of Directors | 7 | General Meetings | 16 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Board Composition | 7 | **Sustainability** | **17** | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Leadership | 7 | The Environment | 18 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Independence | 8 | Labour and employment | 19 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Succession Planning & Refreshment | 8 | Human rights | 19 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diversity | 8 | Business ethics | 20 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Directors' Time Commitment | 9 | **Environmental & Social Resolutions** | **21** | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Board Committees | 9 | Management Proposals | 22 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Director Accountability | 10 | Shareholder Proposals | 22 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Reporting | 11 | Climate Change | 23 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Political Donations & Lobbying | 11 | Diversity & Inclusion | 23 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Risk & Audit | 12 | Human Rights | 24 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Remuneration | 12 | Corporate Lobbying & Political Contributions | 24 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Investor Rights | 14 | Nuclear Energy | 24 | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |
| Corporate Transactions | 14 |  |  | ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg002.jpg) |

---

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>2</sub>

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br>**Introduction**<br>**Active Ownership and Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) considerations are a driver of our investment process, our investment activity, our client journey and our corporate influence.**<br>Through engagement with the companies in which we invest, and by exercising votes on behalf of our clients, we seek to improve the financial resilience and performance of our clients' investments. Where we believe change is needed, we endeavour to catalyse this through our stewardship capabilities.<br>![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg003.jpg)<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br>![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg004.jpg) <br>**Our expectations**<br>As global investors, we are particularly aware that ESG structures and frameworks vary across regions. Furthermore, what we expect of the companies in which we invest varies between different stages of business development and the underlying history and nature of the company in question. We seek to understand each company's individual circumstances and so evaluate how it can best be governed and overseen. As such, we strive to apply the principles and policies set out on these pages in response to the needs of that individual company at that particular time. Our heritage as a predominantly active fund manager helps drive this bespoke approach to understanding good governance and risk management.<br>We have a clear perception of what we consider to be best practice globally - as set out in this document. However we will reflect the nature of the business, our close understanding of individual companies and regional considerations, where appropriate, in our approach to applying these policies, which are not exhaustive.<br>This document has received approval from the Head of Public Markets and the Investment Vector's Chief Sustainability Officer following consultation with various internal stakeholders.<br>**Our approach to stewardship**<br>We seek to integrate and appraise environmental, social and governance factors in our investment process. Our aim is to generate the best long- term outcomes for our clients and we will actively take steps as stewards and owners to protect and enhance the value of our clients' assets.<br>Stewardship is a reflection of this bespoke approach to good governance and risk management. We seek to understand each company's specific approach to governance, how value is created through business success and how investors' interests are protected through the management of risks that materially impact business success. This requires us to play our part in the governance process by being active stewards of companies, involved in dialogue with management and non-executive directors where appropriate, understanding the material risks and opportunities - including those relating to environmental and social factors and helping to shape the future success of the business. |

---

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>3</sub>

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg005.jpg)

We will:

● Take into consideration, in our investment process, the policies and practices on environmental, social and governance matters of the companies in which we invest.

● Seek to enhance long-term shareholder value through constructive engagement with the companies in which we invest.

● Actively engage with the companies and assets in which we invest where we believe we can influence or gain insight.

● Seek to exercise voting rights, where held, in a manner consistent with our clients' long-term best interests.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Seek
 to influence the development of high standards of corporate governance and corporate responsibility in relation to environmental
 and social factors for the benefit of our clients.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Communicate
 our Listed Company ESG Principles and Voting Policies to clients, companies and other interested parties.

● Be
accountable to clients within the constraints of professional confidentiality and legislative and regulatory requirements.

● Be
transparent in reporting our engagement and voting activities.

abrdn is committed to exercising responsible ownership with a conviction that companies adopting improving practices in corporate governance and risk management will be more successful in their core activities and deliver enhanced returns to shareholders. As owners of companies, the process of stewardship is a natural part of our investment approach as we seek to benefit from their long-term success on our clients' behalf.

**Engagement**

It is a central tenet of our active investment approach that we strive to meet with the management and directors of our investee companies on a regular basis. The discussions we have cover a wide range of topics, including : strategic, operational, and ESG issues and consider the long-term drivers of value. Engagement with companies on ESG risks and opportunities is a fundamental part of our investment process. It is a process by which we can discuss how a company identifies, prioritises and mitigates its key risks and optimises its most significant opportunities. As such, we regard engagement as:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Important
 to understanding investee companies as a whole.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Helpful
 when conducting proper ESG analysis.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Useful
 to maintaining open dialogue and solid relationships with companies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● An opportunity
 to inflect positive change on a company's holistic risk management programme - be active with our holdings rather than activist.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>4</sub>

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg006.jpg)

**Proxy Voting**

Proxy voting is an integral part of our active stewardship approach and we seek to exercise voting rights in a manner in line with our clients' best interests. We seek to ensure that voting reflects our understanding of the companies in which we invest on behalf of our clients. We believe that voting is a vital mechanism for holding boards and management teams to account, and is an important tool for escalation and shareholder action.

This document includes our process and overarching policy guidelines which we apply when voting at general meetings. These policies are not exhaustive and we evaluate our voting on a case by case basis. As a global investment firm we recognise the importance of adopting a regional approach, taking into account differing and developing market practices. Where a policy is specific to one region this is denoted.

We endeavour to engage with companies regarding our voting decisions to maintain a dialogue on matters of concern.

**Voting Process**

In line with our active ownership approach, we review the majority of general meeting agendas convened by companies which are held in our active equity portfolios.

Analysis is undertaken by a member of our regional investment teams or our Active Ownership team and votes instructed following consideration of our policies, our views of the company and our investment insights. To enhance our analysis we may engage with a company prior to voting to understand additional context and explanations, particularly where there is deviation from what we believe to be best practice.

To supplement our own analysis we make use of the benchmark research and recommendations provided by ISS, a provider of proxy voting services. In the UK we also make use of the Investment Association's (IA) Institutional

Voting Information Service. We have implemented regional voting policy guidelines with ISS which ISS applies to all meetings in order to produce customised vote recommendations. These custom recommendations help identify resolutions which deviate from our expectations. They are also used to determine votes where a company is held only in passive funds. Within our custom policies, however, we do specify numerous resolutions which should be referred to us for active review. For example we will analyse all proposals marked by ISS as environmental or social proposals.

While it is most common for us to vote in line with a board's voting recommendation we will vote our clients' shares against resolutions which are not consistent with their best interests. We may also vote against resolutions which conflict with local governance guidelines, such as the IA in the UK. Although we seek to vote either in favour or against a resolution we do make use of an abstain vote where this is considered appropriate. For example we may use an abstention to acknowledge some improvement, but as a means to reserve our position in expectation that further improvement is needed before we can vote in favour.

Where we vote against a resolution we endeavour to inform companies of our rationale.

In exceptional circumstances we may attend and speak at a shareholder meeting to reinforce our views to the company's board.

We endeavour to vote all shares for which we have voting authority. We may not vote when there are obstacles to do so, for example those impacting liquidity, such as share-blocking, or where there is a significant conflict of interest. We use the voting platform of ISS to instruct our votes.

Where we lend stock on behalf of clients, and subject to the terms of client agreements, we hold the right to recall shares where it is in clients' interests and we take the view that it will impact the final vote to maintain full voting weight on a particular meeting or resolution.

Our votes are disclosed publicly on our website one day after a general meeting has taken place.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>5</sub>

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg007.jpg)

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>6</sub>

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Governance** | &nbsp;&nbsp; ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg008.jpg) |

---

**Strategy**

We invest in companies to create the best outcome for our clients. Companies must be clear about the drivers of their business success and their strategy for maintaining and enhancing it. Investment is a forward-looking process; we seek to understand the opportunity for a business and its scope for future value-creation over the long term. In order to do this, we need clarity on past business delivery and its drivers, and on the effective track record of management; we require honest and open reporting to build confidence in that track record. We seek confidence that companies and their management can maintain their competitive positioning and operational performance and subsequently enhance returns for investors. A clear strategy and clarity about the drivers of operational success provides the lens through which we will consider most corporate issues, not least assessing performance and risk management.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will consider voting against executive or non-executive
 directors if we have serious concerns regarding the oversight or implementation of strategy.

**Board of Directors**

We believe effective board governance promotes the long-term success and value creation of the company.

The board should be responsible for establishing the company's purpose and strategy, overseeing management in their implementation of strategy and performance against objectives. The board should ensure a strong framework of control and risk oversight, including material ESG risks. The board should assess and monitor culture and be engaged with the workforce, shareholders and wider society.

**Board Composition**

Effective decision making requires a mix of skills around the table and constructive debate between diverse and different-minded individuals. A range of skills, experience and perspectives should be drawn together on the board.

These include industry knowledge, experience from other sectors and relevant geographical knowledge. Independence of thought plays a crucial role in the ability of a board to generate the debate and discussion that will challenge management, help enhance business performance and improve decision-making. Board assessments will help the board ensure it has the necessary mix of skills, diversity and quality of individuals to address the current risks and opportunities the company faces. Unitary boards should comprise an appropriate combination of executive and non-executive directors such that no group of individuals dominates decision-making. We expect the size of the board to reflect the size, nature and complexity of the business. We also expect regular internal and external board evaluations which include an assessment of board composition and effectiveness.

**Leadership**

Running businesses effectively for the long term requires effective collaboration and cooperation, with no individual or small group having unfettered powers. Nor should they have dominant influence over the way a business is run or over major decisions about its operations or future. There should be a division of responsibility between board leadership and executive leadership of the business.

We believe that there should be a division of roles at the top of the organisation, typically between a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and an independent Chair.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will consider supporting the re-election of an existing
 Chair & CEO role combination, recognising that this remains common in certain geographies. In reviewing on a case by case
 basis we will take account of the particular circumstances of the company and consider what checks and balances are in place, such
 as the presence of a strong Senior Independent Director with a clear scope of responsibility.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will generally oppose any re-combination of the
 roles of CEO and Chair, unless the *move* is on a temporary basis due to exceptional circumstances or other mitigating factors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will generally oppose any *move* of a retiring
 CEO to the role of Chair.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>7</sub>

**Governance**

**Independence**

Companies should be led and overseen by genuinely independent boards. When looking at board composition we generally expect to see a majority of independent directors, with boards identifying their independence classifications in the Annual Report. It is preferable to see an identified Senior Independent Director (SID) on the board, who will lead the appraisal of and succession planning for the Chair. We expect SIDs to meet with investors and be a point of contact for escalating concerns if required.

In assessing a director's independence we will have due regard for whether a director:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;i. Has been an employee of the company within the last
 five years.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ii. Has had within the last three years a material business
 relationship with the company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;iii. Has received remuneration in addition to director fees
 or participates in the company's option or variable incentive schemes, or is a member of the company's pension scheme.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;iv. Has close family ties with any of the company's advisers,
 directors or senior employees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;v. Holds cross- directorships or has significant links
 with other directors through involvement in other companies or bodies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;vi. Represents a significant shareholder.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;vii. Has served on the board for more than 12 years (or
 9 for UK companies).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will consider voting
 against the re-election of non-independent
directors if the board is not majority independent (excluding employee representatives). In
doing so we will have regard for whether a company is controlled and the nature of the non-independence - for example, we are unlikely
to vote against shareholder representatives unless their representation is disproportionate to their shareholding.

**Succession Planning & Refreshment**

Regular refreshment of the non-executive portion of a board helps draw in fresh perspectives, not least in the context of changes to business and emerging opportunities and risks. It also helps limit the danger of group- think. Thoughtful and proactive succession planning is therefore needed for board continuity, to ensure that a board is populated by individuals with an appropriate mix of skills, experience and perspective.

We expect the board to implement a formal process for the recruitment and appointment of new directors, and to provide transparency of this in the Annual Report.

● We
will vote against non-executive directors where there are concerns regarding board refreshment or excessive tenure. Where there are directors
who have served for over 12 years on a board which has seen no refreshment in 3 years (2 in UK), we will generally vote against their
re-election. If a director has served for over 15 years we will generally vote against their re- election. We will, however, consider
the impact on board continuity and the company's succession planning efforts prior to doing so. We may not apply the tenure limit to
directors who are founders or shareholder representatives.

**Diversity**

We believe that companies that make progress in diversity and inclusion (D&I) are better positioned for long-term sustainability and outperformance. Diversity of thought, paired with a culture of inclusion, can help companies to tackle increasingly complex challenges and markets. We expect boards to report on how they promote D&I throughout the business and believe that setting targets is important to addressing imbalances. We recognise the importance of adopting a regional approach to diversity and inclusion, allowing us to press for progress with appropriate consideration for the starting point.We have for several years, actively encouraged progress in gender diversity at all levels, and have expanded our scope in relation to diversity and inclusion across geographies. In respect of ethnic diversity, this is coming increasingly into focus as we encourage boards to progress in ensuring that their composition reflects their employee and customer bases.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>8</sub>

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Governance** | &nbsp;&nbsp;![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg009.jpg) |

---

Our regional specific policies are below. In determining our votes we will take account of mitigating factors, such as the sudden departure of a female board member.

We will also consider any clear progress being made by the company on diversity and any assurance that diversity shortfalls will soon be addressed.

Gender Diversity

● UK:
We will generally vote against the Nomination Committee Chair of FTSE 350 companies if the board is not comprised of at least one third
female directors. For smaller companies, we will take this action if the board does not include at least one female director.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Europe: We will generally vote
 against the Nomination Committee Chair of LargeCap companies if the supervisory board is not comprised of at least 30% female directors,
 or is not in line with the local standard if higher. For smaller companies, we will take this action if the supervisory board does
 not include at least one female director.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| ● | Australia: We will generally vote against the Nomination Committee Chair of ASX300 companies if the board is not comprised of at least 30% female directors. |
| ● | North America: We will generally vote against the Nomination Committee Chair of LargeCap companies if the board is not comprised of at least 30% female directors. For smaller companies, we will take this action if the board does not include at least one female director |
| Ethnic Diversity | Ethnic Diversity |
| ● | UK: We will generally vote against the Nomination Committee Chair at the boards of FTSE 100 companies, if the board does not include at least one member from an ethnic minority background. This is in line with targets set up by the Parker Review. |
| ● | US: We will generally vote against the Nomination Committee Chair at the boards of S&P 1500 & Russell 3000 companies if the board does not include at least one member from a racial or ethnic minority background. |

---

**Directors' Time Commitment**

Individual directors need sufficient time to carry out their role effectively and therefore we seek to ensure that all directors maintain an appropriate level of overall commitments such that allows them to be properly diligent.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will consider opposing the
 election or re-election of any director where there is a concern regarding their ability to dedicate sufficient time to the role.
 In making this assessment we will have regard for the ISS classification of 'overboarding'.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will
 generally oppose the re-election of any director who has attended fewer than 75% of board meetings in two consecutive years.

**Board Committees**

Boards should establish committees, populated by independent and appropriately skilled non-executive directors, to oversee (as a minimum) the nomination, audit and remuneration processes. It may also be appropriate for additional committees to be established, such as a risk or sustainability committee. These committees should report openly on an annual basis about their activities and key decisions taken.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will consider voting against
 committee members if we have concerns regarding the composition of a committee.

**Nomination Committee**

This committee has responsibility for leading the process for orderly non-executive and senior management succession planning and recruitment, and for overseeing the composition of the board including skillset, experience and diversity. We expect the committee to be comprised of a majority of independent directors with an independent Chair.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will consider voting against
 the re-election of the Nomination Committee Chair if we have concerns regarding the composition of the board or concerns regarding
 poor succession planning.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>9</sub>

**Governance**

**Audit Committee**

This committee has responsibility for monitoring the integrity of the financial statements, reviewing the company's internal financial controls and risk management systems, reviewing the effectiveness of the company's internal audit function and appointing auditors. While we prefer the committee to be wholly independent, at minimum we expect the committee to be comprised of a majority of independent directors with an independent Chair and at least one member having recent and relevant financial experience.

● We will generally vote against the re-election of the Audit Committee Chair if at least one member of the Committee does not have recent and relevant financial experience.

**Remuneration Committee**

This committee is responsible for determining the policy and setting remuneration for executive and non-executive directors. The committee should ensure that remuneration is aligned with strategy and company performance and should clearly demonstrate regard for the company's employees, for wider society and be cognisant of the company's licence to operate when considering policy and the overall level of remuneration. We expect remuneration committees to be robust in their approach to developing and implementing remuneration policies, with formal and transparent procedures for developing policies and for determining remuneration packages. Remuneration committees should be comprised of a majority of independent directors with an independent Chair and we expect members to have appropriate experience and knowledge of the business. No executive should be involved in setting their own remuneration.

● Where we have significant concerns regarding the company's remuneration policy or reward outcomes we may escalate these concerns through a vote against the Chair or members of the Remuneration Committee.

**Director Accountability**

We expect to be able to hold boards to account through engagement and regular director re-elections and directors should feel that they are accountable to investors. We encourage individual, rather than bundled, director elections. While our preference is for directors to be subject to re-election annually, we expect re-elections to take place at least every three years. Lengthier board mandates, while not uncommon in some markets, risk divorcing directors from an appropriate sense of accountability. Directors and management should make themselves available for discussions with major shareholders as we expect to have open dialogue to share our perspectives and gain confidence that the individuals are carrying out their roles with appropriate vigour and diligence. A further important element of director accountability to shareholders is that investors should have the right, both formal and informal, to propose and promote individual directors to be considered for election to the board by all shareholders.

● We will generally oppose the re-election of non-independent NEDs who are proposed for a term exceeding three years. We may not apply this to directors who are shareholder representatives.

● Where we have significant concerns regarding a board member's performance, actions or inaction to address issues raised we may vote against their re-election.

● We may vote against directors who decline appropriate requests for meeting without a clear justification.

● Where a director has held a position of responsibility at a company which has suffered a material governance failure, we will consider whether we are comfortable to support their re-election at other listed companies.

● We will generally support resolutions to discharge the supervisory board or management board members unless we have serious concerns regarding actions taken during the year under review. Where there is insufficient information regarding allegations of misconduct, we may prefer to abstain. In exceptional circumstances we may vote against the discharge resolution to reflect serious ESG concerns if there is not another appropriate resolution.

● We will not support the election of directors who are not personally identified but are proposed as corporations.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>10</sub>

**Governance**

**Reporting**

● We may consider voting against a company's Annual Report & Accounts if we have concerns regarding timely provision or disclosure.

**Political Donations & Lobbying**

Companies should be consistent in their public statements and not undermine these in private commentary to market participants or to politicians and regulators. We welcome transparency from companies about their lobbying activities and believe that good companies have nothing to hide in this respect. Similarly we encourage transparency of any political donations that companies deem appropriate - and we expect a clear explanation of why such donations are an appropriate use of corporate funds.

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img001.jpg)

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img002.jpg)

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>11</sub>

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Governance**<br>| ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img013.jpg) |

---

**Risk & Audit**

The board is responsible for determining the company's risk appetite, establishing procedures to manage risk and for monitoring the company's internal controls. We expect boards to conduct robust assessments of the company's material risks and report to shareholders on risks, controls and effectiveness. The introduction of global accounting standards has led to much greater investor confidence in the accounts produced by companies around the world. It has also assisted in creating consistency of reporting across companies, enabling fairer comparisons between different operating businesses. We therefore encourage companies seeking international investment to report under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or US GAAP. As a firm abrdn supports the continued development of high quality global accounting standards.

An independent audit, delivered by a respected audit firm, is a required element for investor confidence in reporting by companies. We strongly favour meaningful, transparent and informative auditor reports, giving us additional insights into the audit process and accounting outcomes. Audit fees must be sufficient to pay for an appropriately in-depth assurance process. We would be concerned if a company sought to make savings in this respect as the cost in terms of damage to audit effectiveness and confidence in the company's accounts would be much more substantial.

The independence of the auditor and the standard of their work, particularly in challenging management, should be subject to regular assessment that is appropriately disclosed. Even when individuals carrying out the audit are refreshed, we believe that the independence of the audit firm erodes over time and we will encourage a tender process and change of audit firm where an engagement has lasted for an extended period. In order to demonstrate the level of independence, companies should not have the same audit firm in place for more than 20 years.

The relationship with the auditor should be mediated through the audit committee. Where we are significant shareholders, we expect to be consulted on plans to tender and replace auditors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will generally vote against the re-election of an
 auditor which has a tenure of 20 years or over, if there are no plans for rotation in the near term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We
 will consider voting against the auditors if we have concerns regarding the accounts presented or the audit procedures used.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will vote against the approval of auditor fees if
 we have concerns regarding the level of fees or the balance of non-audit and audit fees.

**Remuneration**

Remuneration policies and the overall levels of pay should be aligned with strategy, attracting and retaining talent and incentivising the decisions and behaviours needed to create long-term value. The component parts of remuneration should be structured so as to link rewards to corporate and individual performance and they should be considered in the context of the remuneration policies when taken as a whole. We recognise the benefits of simplicity in forming the policy, which should clearly link outcomes and expectations for those receiving the remuneration, as well as external stakeholders. The structure should be transparent and understandable.

A company's annual report should contain an informative statement of remuneration policy which communicates clearly to stakeholders how it has developed and evolved. This should include details of any stress testing that may have been undertaken to understand the policy outcomes for different business scenarios. The remuneration committee should provide a clear description of the application of policy and the outcomes achieved.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>12</sub>

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Governance**<br>| ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img004.jpg) |

---

Base salary should be set at a level appropriate for the role and responsibility of the executive. We discourage increases which are driven by peer benchmarking, and expect increases to be aligned with the wider workforce. Consideration should also be given to the knock on impact to variable remuneration potential. Pension arrangements and benefits should be clearly disclosed. We generally expect pension structures to be aligned with the wider workforce.

A company should structure variable, performance-related pay to incentivise and reward management in a manner that is aligned with the company's sustainable performance and risk appetite over the long term. We expect all variable pay to be capped, preferably as a proportion of base salary. In the UK we expect variable pay to be capped as a proportion of salary. In other markets, if variable pay is capped at a number of shares, we expect the value of grants to be kept under review annually to ensure the value remains appropriate and is not excessive.

Performance metrics used to determine variable pay should be clearly disclosed and aligned with the company's strategy. A significant portion of performance metrics should seek to measure significant improvements in the underlying financial performance of the company. We also encourage the inclusion of non-financial metrics linked to targets which are aligned with the company's progress on its ESG strategy. Where possible we expect these targets to be quantifiable and disclosed.

Variable pay arrangements should incentivise participants to achieve above-average performance through the use of challenging targets. We encourage sliding-scale performance measures and expect performance target ranges to be disclosed to enable shareholders to assess the level of challenge and pay for performance alignment. We expect annual bonus targets to be disclosed retrospectively and encourage the disclosure of long term incentive (LTI) targets at the beginning of the performance period, but at minimum we expect retrospective disclosure. Where bonus or LTI targets are not disclosed due to commercial sensitivity we expect an explanation of why the targets continue to be considered sensitive retrospectively and expect some detail regarding the level of achievement vs target. Where a share price metric is being used, we expect this to be underpinned by a challenging measure of underlying performance.

We encourage settlement of a portion of the annual bonus in shares which are deferred for at least one year.

We expect settlement of long term incentives to be in shares, with rationale provided for any awards settled in cash. Long term incentives should have a performance period of no less than three years. In the UK we expect a further holding period of two years to be applied, and we encourage this in other markets.

We do not generally support restricted share schemes or value creation plans. We will consider supporting the use of restricted share plans which have been structured consistent with the guidelines of the Investment Association.

We expect appropriate malus and clawback provisions to be applied to variable remuneration plans.

We expect shareholding guidelines to be adopted for executive directors and encourage the adoption of post-departure shareholding guidelines.

We expect details of any use of discretion to be disclosed and its use should be justifiable, appropriate and clearly explained. We would expect policies to be sufficiently robust so that discretion is only necessary in exceptional circumstances. We do not generally support exceptional awards, and are particularly sensitive to such awards being granted to reward a corporate transaction.

We expect executive service contracts to provide for a maximum notice period of 12 months. We will consider local best practice provisions related to severance arrangements when voting.

Non-executive fees should reflect the role's level of responsibility and time commitment. We do not support NED's participation in option or performance-related arrangements. However we do support the payment of fees in shares, particularly where conservation of cash is an issue.

In the UK our expectations of companies are aligned with the Investment Association's Principles of Remuneration.

Where significant changes to remuneration arrangements are being considered, we would expect remuneration committees to consult with their largest shareholders prior to finalising any changes. Where any increase to variable remuneration is proposed, we would expect this to be accompanied by a demonstrable increase in the stretch of the targets. Furthermore we expect any increases to remuneration to be subject to shareholder approval.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>13</sub>

**Governance**

In response to the issues arising from the cost of living crisis being experienced by many people in the UK, we expect companies to focus any additional help towards those members of the workforce who need it most. We expect Remuneration Committees to take into account factors arising from the cost of living crisis when deliberating over executive pay outcomes. We would be concerned by reputational issues arising from decisions made in these unusual circumstances and may make this a factor in our voting decisions at relevant AGMs.

In line with the expectations set out above we will generally vote against the appropriate resolution(s) where:

● We consider the overall reward
potential or outcome to be excessive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● A
 significant increase to salary has been granted which is not aligned with the workforce or is not sufficiently justified.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● A
 significant increase to performance-related pay has been granted which is not sufficiently justified, is not accompanied by an increase
 in the level of stretch required for achievement or results in the potential for excessive reward.

● There is no appropriate cap on
variable incentive schemes.

● Performance targets for annual
bonus awards are not disclosed retrospectively and the absence of disclosure is not explained.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Performance
 targets for long term incentive awards are not disclosed up front and there is no compelling explanation regarding the absence of
 disclosure or a commitment to disclose retrospectively.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Performance
 targets are not considered sufficiently challenging, either at threshold, target or maximum.

● Relative performance targets
allow vesting of awards for below median performance.

● Retesting provisions apply.

● Incentives that have been conditionally
awarded have been repriced or performance conditions changed part way through a performance period.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We
 have concerns regarding the use of discretion or the grant of exceptional awards.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Pension
 arrangements are excessive.

● Pension
arrangements are not aligned with the wider workforce (UK).

**Investor Rights**

The interests of minority shareholders must be protected and any major, or majority, investor should not enjoy preferential treatment. The structure of ownership or control should minimise the potential for abuse of public shareholders.

**Corporate Transactions**

Companies should not make significant changes to their structure or nature without being fully transparent to their investors. Shareholders should have the opportunity to vote on significant corporate activity, such as mergers and acquisitions. Where a transaction is with a related party, only independent shareholders should have a vote. Even in markets where no vote is given to shareholders in these circumstances, investors need transparent disclosure of the reasons for any such major change. Companies should expect that shareholders may want to discuss and debate proposed developments

Diversification beyond the core skills of the business needs to be justified as it is more often than not a distraction from operational performance. All major deals need to be clearly explained and justified in the context of the pre-existing strategy and be subject to shareholder approval.

● We will vote on corporate transactions on a case by case basis.

**Dividends**

We will generally support the payment of dividends but will scrutinise the proposed level where it appears excessive given the company's financial position.

**Share Capital**

The board carries responsibility for prudent capital management and allocation.

**Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies**<sub>14</sub>

**Governance**

**Share Issuance**

We will consider capital raises which are proposed for a specific purpose on a case by case basis but recognise that it can be beneficial for companies to have some general flexibility to issue shares to raise capital. However we expect issuances to be limited to the needs of the business and companies should not issue significant portions of shares unless offering these on a pro-rata basis to existing shareholders to protect against inappropriate dilution of investments.

● Where a company seeks a general authority to issue shares we
generally expect this to be limited to 25% of the company's share capital for pre-emptive issuances. In the UK we are aligned with the
guidance of the Investment Association Share Capital Management Guidelines.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Where a company seeks a general authority to issue
 shares we generally expect this to be limited to 10% of the company's share capital for non-pre-emptive issuances. In
the UK we are aligned with the guidance of the Investment Association Share Capital Management Guidelines and those of the Pre-Emption
Group.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will not generally support share issuances at investment
 trusts unless there is a commitment that shares would only be issued at a price at or above net asset value.

When considering our votes we will, however, take account of the company's circumstances and any further detail regarding proposed capital issuance authorities prior to voting.

Following changes to the UK's Pre-Emption Group Guidelines in November 2022,which reflect an increase on previous limits, we will hold the Chair of the company accountable for any perceived misuse of the increased flexibility through a vote against their re-election.

**Buyback**

We recognise that share buybacks can be a flexible means of returning cash to shareholders.

● We will generally support buyback authorities of up
to 10% of the issued share capital.

**Related Party Transactions**

The nature of relations - particularly any related party transactions (RPTs)- with parent or related companies, or other major investors, must be disclosed fully.

Related party transactions must be agreed on arm's length terms and be made fully transparent. Where they are material, they should be subject to the approval of independent shareholders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will vote against RPTs where there is insufficient
 transparency of the nature of the transaction, the rationale, the terms or the views
and assessment of directors and advisors.

**Article/Bylaw amendments**

While it is standard to see proposals from companies to amend their articles of association or bylaws, we will review these on a case by case basis. When doing so we expect full transparency of the proposed changes to be disclosed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will vote against amendments which will reduce shareholder
 rights.

**Anti-Takeover Defences**

There should be no artificial structures put in place to entrench management and protect companies from takeover. The best defence from hostile takeover is strong operational delivery.

● We will generally vote against anti-takeover/'poison pill' proposals.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **15** |

---

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Governance**<br>| ![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img006.jpg) |

---

**Voting Rights**

We are strong supporters of the principle of 'one share, one vote' and therefore favour equal voting rights for all shareholders.

● We will generally vote against proposals which seek to introduce
or continue capital structures with multiple voting rights.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will consider voting
 against proposals to raise new capital at companies with multiple share classes and voting rights.

**General Meetings**

Shareholder meetings provide an important opportunity to hold boards to account not only through voting on the proposed resolutions but also by enabling investors the opportunity to raise questions, express views and emphasise concerns to the entire board. We may make a statement at a company's AGM as a means of escalation to reinforce our views to a company's board.

We welcome the opportunity to attend meetings virtually, being of the view that this can increase participation given obstacles such as location or meeting concentration. However we are not supportive of companies adopting virtual- only meetings as we believe this format reduces accountability. Our preference is for a hybrid meeting format to balance the flexibility of remote attendance with the accountability of an in-person meeting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will generally support resolutions seeking approval
 to shorten the EGM notice period to minimum 14 days, unless we have concerns regarding previous inappropriate use of this flexibility.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● We will generally support proposals to enable virtual
 meetings to take place as long as there is confirmation that the format will be hybrid, with physical meetings continuing to take
 place (unless prohibited by law).

We expect virtual attendees to have the same rights to speak and raise questions as those attending in-person.

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img007.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **16** |

---

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg04.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **17** |

---

**Sustainability**

**As part of strategic planning, boards need to have oversight of, and clearly articulate, the key opportunities and risks affecting the sustainability of the business model. This includes having a process for, and transparent disclosure of, potential and emerging opportunities and risks and the actions being taken to address them.**

The effective management of risks extends to long- term issues that are hard to measure and whose timeframe is uncertain and will include the management of environmental and social issues. We use the UN Global Compact's four areas of focus in assessing how companies are performing in this area.

Specifically we expect companies to be able to demonstrate how they manage their exposures under the following headings.

**The Environment**

It is generally accepted that companies are responsible for the effects of their operations and products on the environment. The steps they take to assess and reduce those impacts can lead to cost savings and reduce potential reputational damage. Companies are responsible for their impact on the climate and they face increased regulation from world governments on activities that contribute to climate change.

We expect that companies will:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Identify,
 manage and reduce their environmental impacts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Understand
 the impact of climate change along the company value chain.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Develop
 group-level climate policies and, where relevant, set targets to manage the impact, report on policies, practices and actions taken
 to reduce carbon and other environmental risks within their operations.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Comply
 with all environmental laws and regulations, or recognised international best practice as a minimum.

Where we have serious concerns regarding a board's actions, or inaction, in relation to the environment we will consider taking voting action on an appropriate resolution.

We will use the indicators within the Carbon Disclosure Project to identify companies which are not fulfilling their climate commitments. Where appropriate we will take voting action to encourage better practice among companies which we deem to be laggards.

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img008.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **18** |

---

**Sustainability**

**Labour and employment**

Companies that respect internationally recognised labour rights and provide safe and healthy working environments for employees are likely to reap the benefits. This approach is likely to foster a more committed and productive workforce, and help reduce damage to reputation and a company's license to operate. We expect companies to comply with all employment laws and regulations and adopt practices in line with the International Labour Organization's core labour standards. a minimum.

In particular, companies will:

● Take
 affirmative steps to ensure that they uphold decent labour standards.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Adopt
 strong health and safety policies and programmes to implement such policies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Adopt
 equal employment opportunity and diversity policies and a programme for ensuring compliance with such policies.

● Adopt
 policies and programmes for investing in employee training and development.

● Adopt
 initiatives to attract and retain talented employees, foster higher productivity and quality, and encourage in their workforce a
 commitment to achieving the company's purpose.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Ensure
 policies are in place for a company's suppliers that promote decent labour standards, and programmes are in place to ensure high
 standards of labour along supply chains.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Report
 regularly on its policy and implementation of managing human capital.

Where we have serious concerns regarding a board's actions, or inaction, in relation to labour and employment we will consider taking voting action on an appropriate resolution.

**Human rights**

We recognise the impact that human-rights issues can have on our investments and the role we can play in stimulating progress. We draw upon a number of international, legal and voluntary agreements for guidance on human-rights responsibilities and compliance.

Our primary sources are the International Bill of Rights and the core conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which form the list of internationally agreed human rights, and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), which clarifies the roles of states and businesses. We encourage companies to use the UNGPs Reporting Framework and encourage disclosure in line with this guidance.

We expect companies to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Continually
 work to understand their actual and potential impacts on human rights.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Establish
 systems that actively ensure respect for human rights.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Take
 appropriate action to remedy any infringements on human rights.

Where we have serious concerns regarding a board's actions, or inaction, in relation to human rights we will consider taking voting action on an appropriate resolution.

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img009.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **19** |

---

**Sustainability**

**Business ethics**

As institutions of wealth and influence, companies have a significant impact on the prosperity of their local communities and the wider world. Having a robust code of ethics and ensuring professional conduct mean companies operate more effectively, particularly when it comes to ethical principles governing decision-making. A company's failure to conform to internationally recognised standards of business ethics on matters such as bribery and corruption, can increase its risk of facing investigation, litigation and fines. This could undermine its license to operate, and affect its reputation and image.

We expect companies to have policies in place to support the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;● Ethics at the heart of the organisation ' s
governance.

● A zero-tolerance policy on bribery and corruption.

● How people
 are rewarded , as pay can influence behaviour.

● Respect for human rights.

● Tax transparency.

● Ethical training
 for employees.

Where we have serious concerns regarding a board's actions, or inaction, related to business ethics we will consider taking voting action on an appropriate resolution.

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img010.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **20** |

---

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13ds2img011.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **21** |

---

**Environmental** **& Social Resolutions** 

**We will review any resolution at company meetings which ISS has identified as covering environmental and social factors. The following will detail our overarching approach and expectations.**

Our approach to vote analysis is consistent across active and quantitative investment strategies:

● **Review** the resolution, proponent
and board statements, existing disclosures, and external research .

● **Engage** with
the company, proponents, and other stakeholders as required.

● **Involve** thematic experts, regional specialists,
 and investment analysts in decision-making to harness a
 wide range of expertise and include all material factors in our analysis.

● **Ensure consistency** by using our own in-house guidance to frame case-by-case
 analysis.

● **Monitor** the outcomes of votes.

● **Follow-up** with on-going
engagement as required.

Given the nature of the topics covered by these resolutions we do not apply binary voting policies. We adopt a nuanced approach to our voting research and outcomes and will consider the specific circumstances of the company concerned. Our objective is not to vote in favour of all shareholder resolutions but to determine the best outcome for the company in the context of the best outcome for our clients. There are instances where we are supportive of the spirit of a resolution however there may be a reason which prevents our support for the proposal. For example, where the purpose of the resolution is unclear, where the wording is overly prescriptive, when suggested implementation is overly burdensome or where the proposal strays too closely to the board's responsibility for setting the company's strategy.

**Management Proposals**

We are supportive of the steps being taken by companies to provide transparent, detailed reporting of their ESG strategies and targets. While shareholder proposals on environmental and social topics have been common on AGM agendas for several years, an increasing number of companies are presenting management proposals, such as so called 'say on climate' votes, for shareholder approval. While we welcome the intention of accountability behind these votes, we have reservations about the potential for them to limit the scope for subsequent investor challenge and diminish the direct responsibility and accountability of the board and individual directors. We believe it is the role of the board and the executive to develop and apply strategy, including ESG strategies, and we will continue to use existing voting items to hold boards to account on the implementation of these strategies. As active investors we also regularly engage with investee companies on ESG topics and find this dialogue to be the best opportunity to provide feedback.

We will review the appropriateness of 'say on climate' votes and consider if other voting mechanisms should be applied to ensure both Boards and Executives apply the appropriate rigour to initiate and deliver strategies to support the climate transition.

**Shareholder Proposals**

The number of resolutions focused on environmental and social (E&S) issues filed by shareholders continues to grow rapidly. The following provides an overview of some of the factors we consider when assessing the most prevalent themes for shareholder proposals.

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg02.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **22** |

---

**Environmental** **& Social Resolutions**

**Climate Change**

We are members of the Net Zero Asset Managers Initiatives and this is reflected in our Active Ownership approach.

We encourage the companies in which we invest to demonstrate a robust methodology underpinning Paris aligned goals and targets and are supportive of resolutions that will help companies to achieve this. Once a credible climate strategy is in place, we prioritise evidence of implementation over requests to re-draft strategies and targets after only a year or two.

A growing number of resolutions call on companies to increase the transparency of their reporting on climate-related lobbying. These proposals typically encompass direct lobbying undertaken by the company and indirect lobbying undertaken by trade associations and other organisations of which it is a member or supporter.

Lobbying contrary to the objectives of the Paris Agreement is effective in creating climate policy inertia and impeding the transition to net zero economies.

We do not evaluate resolutions in isolation. Our approach recognises the links between corporate governance, strategy and climate approach. Where a company's operational response to climate change is inadequate, the effectiveness of board oversight and corporate governance may also be called into question.

We expect and encourage companies to:

● Demonstrate that a
robust methodology underpins Paris aligned, net zero goals and targets.

● Set targets for absolute emission reduction, not
just carbon intensity , to show a clear pathway to net zero.

● Report in alignment with the TCFD framework.

● Link targets to remuneration and ensure they are reflected in capital expenditure and R&D plans.

● Carefully manage climate-related lobbying by
ensuring appropriate oversight, transparent disclosure
of activities, and alignment of activities with the company's
strategy and publicly stated positions.

**Diversity & Inclusion**

Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) is an important and growing theme for shareholder resolutions. In recent years resolutions have focussed on racial equity audits, pay gap reporting, transparent disclosure of D&I metrics and assessments of the efficacy of D&I programmes.

A racial equity audit is an independent analysis of a company's business practices designed to identify practices that may have a discriminatory effect.

We are supportive of racial equity audits in relation to internal and external D&I programmes. It is appropriate that these programmes should have KPIs and audit mechanisms in place to measure and evaluate outcomes. Some proposals request racial equity audits of provision of services. We are aware that measuring provision of service is challenging and gathering racial data on customers can be difficult and inappropriate. There are also multiple different factors that can influence service provision and which could be misconstrued as being racially motivated. We will however, support resolutions which are not unduly prescriptive and allow companies to carry out audits within a reasonable timeframe, at a reasonable cost, and excluding confidential or proprietary information.

We consider standardised gender pay gap disclosure to be an important tool for assessing how companies are addressing gender inequality. Reporting on gender pay gaps across global operations can help companies to remain ahead of the regulatory curve. It also enables them to offer better opportunities and remuneration for women around the world. We are therefore supportive of resolutions which are likely to deliver these benefits.

Proposals must be carefully drafted to achieve these outcomes. For instance, in the past we have been unable to support resolutions which called for global median gender and racial pay gap reporting as it was unclear how this would reveal potential pay disparities at a local level and how it could be implemented by companies with operations in jurisdictions where collection of racial identity data is illegal.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **23** |

---

**Environmental** **& Social Resolutions**

In the US market we support public disclosure of EEO-1 forms by companies. The EEO-1 form details a comprehensive breakdown of workforce by race and gender according to ten employment categories. The form is submitted privately to the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on an annual basis. When publicly disclosed, it offers investors and other stakeholders data in a standardised and comparable form. We have used our engagement programme to ask the companies in which we invest to disclose this form for their US operations while making it central to our D&I voting approach and supporting resolutions that request it.

**Human Rights**

As a supporter of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), we expect companies to demonstrate how human rights due diligence is conducted across operations, services, product use and the supply chain. Companies can have a significant impact on human rights directly through operations and provision of services, and indirectly through product use and the supply chain. In recent years the sale and end-use of controversial technologies, such as facial recognition software, has emerged as a prominent theme.

We expect and encourage companies to:

● Ha ve robust due diligence processes to assess the actual and potential human rights impacts of their operations, services, product use and supply chain.

● Conduct customer and supplier vetting processes commensurate with the risk of human rights abuse.

● Publicly disclose information about the operation of these processes and utilise the UNGPs' Reporting Framework. This will improve the standard and consistency of human rights reporting and enable more informed investment decision making.

**Corporate Lobbying** **& Political Contributions**

Corporate lobbying and political contributions are a recurrent theme of shareholder resolutions, particularly in the US. These proposals typically encompass direct lobbying undertaken by the company and indirect lobbying undertaken by trade associations and other organisations of which it is a member or supporter.

Proposals may also request the disclosure of more information regarding the process and rationale for political contributions. We expect companies to make transparent, consolidated disclosures of direct and indirect lobbying and political expenditure. This disclosure should be underpinned by a coherent policy that: explains public policy priorities and the rationale for associated expenditure, identifies the management positions responsible for public policy engagement, and provides appropriate mechanisms for board oversight.

These measures should mitigate the risks associated with corporate lobbying and political contributions, protecting the interest of shareholders and other stakeholders.

**Nuclear Energy**

In the Japanese market nuclear energy is a recurrent theme of shareholder resolutions. The Japanese government is seeking to reduce the nation's reliance on coal and its energy strategy presents safe nuclear power generation as an important source of base-load power. In this context, resolutions which seek to limit or cease the nuclear operations of an individual company do not appear to be in the best interests of shareholders and other stakeholders. The health & safety risks associated with nuclear energy are high, must be managed carefully across the industry, and are an important consideration in our voting.

![](tm2521671d1_ex99-13dimg03.jpg)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **24** |

---

**Important Information**

This document is strictly for information purposes only and should not be considered as an offer, investment recommendation, or solicitation, to deal in any of the investments or funds mentioned herein and does not constitute investment research. abrdn does not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the information and materials contained in this document and expressly disclaims liability for errors or omissions in such information and materials.

Any research or analysis used in the preparation of this document has been procured by abrdn for its own use and may have been acted on for its own purpose. The results thus obtained are made available only coincidentally and the information is not guaranteed as to its accuracy. Some of the information in this document may contain projections or other forward looking statements regarding future events or future financial performance of countries,markets or companies. These statements are only predictions and actual events or results may differ materially. The reader must make their own assessment of the relevance, accuracy and adequacy of the information contained in this document and make such independent investigations, as they may consider necessary or appropriate for the purpose of such assessment. This material serves to provide general information and is not meant to be investment, legal or tax advice for any particular investor. No warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of the reader, any person or group of persons acting on any information, opinion or estimate contained in this document. abrdn reserves the right to make changes and corrections to any information in this document at any time, without notice. This material is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior written consent of abrdn.

Applying ESG and sustainability criteria in the investment process may result in the exclusion of securities within the universe of potential investments. The interpretation of ESG and sustainability criteria is subjective meaning that products may invest in companies which similar products do not (and thus perform differently) and which do not align with the personal views of any individual investor. Furthermore, the lack of common or harmonized definitions and labels regarding ESG and sustainability criteria may result in different approaches by managers when integrating ESG and sustainability criteria into investment decisions. This means that it may be difficult to compare strategies within ostensibly similar objectives and that these strategies will employ different security selection and exclusion criteria. Consequently, the performance profile of otherwise similar vehicles may deviate more substantially than might otherwise be expected. Additionally, in the absence of common or harmonized definitions and labels, a degree of subjectivity is required and this will mean that a product may invest in a security that another manager or an investor would not.

abrdn plc is registered in Scotland (SC286832) at 1 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2LL.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Listed Company ESG Principles & Voting Policies** | **25** |

---

For more information visit abrdn.com

GB-070223-187536-4

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **abrdn.com** | **STA0223824336-001** |

---