N-CSR
Table of Contents

 

 

 

LOGO

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM N-CSR

 

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED

MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

Investment Company Act file number: 811-21331

 

 

Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

 

525 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94105

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

 

 

Alexander Kymn

Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC

525 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94105

(Name and address of agent for service)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 800-222-8222

Date of fiscal year end: October 31

Date of reporting period: October 31, 2018

 

 

 


Table of Contents

ITEM 1. REPORT TO STOCKHOLDERS

 

1


Table of Contents

Annual Report

October 31, 2018

 

LOGO

 

Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund (ERC)

 

LOGO

 

 

 

Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by new regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s annual and semi-annual shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports. Instead, the reports will be made available on the Fund’s website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website address to access the report.

If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Fund electronically at any time by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank) or, if you are a direct investor, by calling 1-800-730-6001.

You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. If you invest through a financial intermediary, you can contact your financial intermediary to request that you continue to receive paper copies of your shareholder reports; if you invest directly with the Fund, you can call 1-800-730-6001. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all Wells Fargo Funds held in your account with your financial intermediary or, if you are a direct investor, to all Wells Fargo Funds that you hold.

 

 

LOGO


Table of Contents

Reduce clutter. Save trees.

Sign up for electronic delivery of prospectuses and shareholder reports at wellsfargo.com/advantagedelivery

Contents

 

 

 

Letter to shareholders

    2  

Performance highlights

    6  

Portfolio of investments

    11  
Financial statements  

Statement of assets and liabilities

    32  

Statement of operations

    33  

Statement of changes in net assets

    34  

Statement of cash flows

    35  

Financial highlights

    36  

Notes to financial statements

    37  

Report of independent registered public accounting firm

    43  

Other information

    44  

Automatic dividend reinvestment plan

    51  

 

The views expressed and any forward-looking statements are as of October 31, 2018, unless otherwise noted, and are those of the Fund managers and/or Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC. Discussions of individual securities, or the markets generally, or any Wells Fargo Fund are not intended as individual recommendations. Future events or results may vary significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. The views expressed are subject to change at any time in response to changing circumstances in the market. Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC and the Fund disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any views expressed or forward-looking statements.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED    NO BANK GUARANTEE     MAY LOSE VALUE



Table of Contents

 

2   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Letter to shareholders (unaudited)

 

LOGO

Andrew Owen

President

Wells Fargo Funds

 

 

The early months of the reporting period were characterized by strong performance for equity and fixed-income markets. The remainder of the reporting period generated economic, business, and investing data that were decidedly more mixed and volatile relative to the prior year.

 

 

Dear Shareholder:

We are pleased to offer you this annual report for the Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund for the 12-month period that ended October 31, 2018. The early months of the reporting period were characterized by strong performance for equity and fixed-income markets. The remainder of the reporting period generated economic, business, and investing data that were decidedly more mixed and volatile relative to the prior year.

For the period, U.S. stocks, as measured by the S&P 500 Index,1 gained 7.35% and international stocks, as measured by the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index (Net),2 declined 8.24%. Based on the MSCI EM Index (Net),3 emerging market stocks lost 12.52%. For bond investors, the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index4 declined 2.05% and the Bloomberg Barclays Global Aggregate ex-USD Index5 fell 2.09%. The Bloomberg Barclays Municipal Bond Index6 dropped 0.51%, and the ICE BofAML U.S. High Yield Index7 was up 0.86%.

Optimism continued to shape markets as 2017 closed and 2018 opened.

Economic conditions in late 2017 were characterized by synchronized global growth, low inflation, healthy corporate earnings, growing consumer confidence, declining unemployment, and a weaker U.S. dollar that supported international growth. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) growth on an annualized basis for the fourth quarter of 2017 was 2.9% and inflation remained below the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) target.

Economic momentum continued in Europe. The Bank of England (BOE) raised interest rates in November 2017 to 0.50%, the first increase in more than 10 years, indicating confidence in the economy’s growth potential. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank (ECB) and the Bank of Japan (BOJ) kept interest rates low to spur business activities and bought bonds in an effort to encourage equity investments. The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) also sought to stimulate economic growth. Many emerging market economies benefited from stronger currencies versus the U.S. dollar, while commodity price increases benefited countries that rely on natural resources for exports.

 

 

 

1

The S&P 500 Index consists of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation. It is a market-value-weighted index with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

2

The Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) All Country World Index (ACWI) ex USA Index (Net) is a free-float-adjusted market-capitalization-weighted index that is designed to measure the equity market performance of developed markets, excluding the United States and Canada. Source: MSCI. MSCI makes no express or implied warranties or representations and shall have no liability whatsoever with respect to any MSCI data contained herein. The MSCI data may not be further redistributed or used as a basis for other indices or any securities or financial products. This report is not approved, reviewed, or produced by MSCI. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

3 

The MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) Index (Net) is a free-float-adjusted market-capitalization-weighted index that is designed to measure large- and mid-cap equity market performance of emerging markets. The MSCI EM Index (Net) consists of the following 24 emerging market country indices: Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, Qatar, Russia, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

4 

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is a broad-based benchmark that measures the investment-grade, U.S. dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market, including Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities, mortgage-backed securities (agency fixed-rate and hybrid adjustable-rate mortgage pass-throughs), asset-backed securities, and commercial mortgage-backed securities. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

5

The Bloomberg Barclays Global Aggregate ex-USD Index is an unmanaged index that provides a broad-based measure of the global investment-grade fixed-income markets excluding the U.S. dollar-denominated debt market. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

6

The Bloomberg Barclays Municipal Bond Index is an unmanaged index composed of long-term tax-exempt bonds with a minimum credit rating of Baa. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

7

The ICE BofAML U.S. High Yield Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of domestic and Yankee high-yield bonds. The index tracks the performance of high-yield securities traded in the U.S. bond market. You cannot invest directly in an index. Copyright 2018. ICE Data Indices, LLC. All rights reserved.


Table of Contents

 

Letter to shareholders (unaudited)   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     3  

Volatility reemerged during the early months of 2018.

In February 2018, investor concerns arose about inflation and trade, particularly between the U.S. and China. The Fed followed its 25-basis-point (bp; 100 bps equal 1.00%) federal funds rate increase in December 2017 with a further 25-bp increase in March 2018. The inflation rate in March reached the Fed’s 2% target for the first time in a year. The S&P 500 Index closed the first quarter with a negative return, the first negative quarterly return for the index since 2014.

Overseas investment markets, hurt by a stronger U.S. dollar and mounting trade and diplomatic tensions, fell. The MSCI ACWI ex USA Index (Net) declined 1.81% for the quarter that ended March 31, 2018.

Global trade tensions prompted investor concerns.

Global trade tensions escalated during the second quarter of 2018. The U.S. government’s decision to impose tariffs on a wide range of products manufactured overseas drew retaliatory responses from foreign governments, which punished U.S. commodity producers and product manufacturers. Investors were left to wonder about next steps in what appeared to be an escalating divergence in global economic policies and growth prospects.

Inflation trended higher. The CPI-U8 added 0.1% in June after an increase of 0.2% in both April and May. On a year-over-year basis, the all-items index rose 2.9% for the 12 months that ended June 30, 2018. The index for all items less food and energy rose 2.3% for the same 12-month period.

U.S. stocks gained following positive economic data while international stocks and bonds declined.

During the summer months, the U.S. economy strengthened. Revised second-quarter GDP data released in August showed the U.S. economy growing at a 4.2% rate. The unemployment rate in the U.S. was 3.7% by the end of September, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Wages showed more consistent growth, and consumer confidence remained strong. Several U.S. equity market indices reached records during August, with the S&P 500 Index gaining 7.20% for the three-month period that ended September 30, 2018. In contrast, the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index (Net) gained 0.71% and the MSCI EM Index (Net) declined 1.09% during the same three-month period.

In June, the Fed increased the target range for the federal funds rate to range from 1.75% to 2.00%, then again in September to range from 2.00% to 2.25%. Long-term interest rates in the U.S. remained at higher levels relative to the prior 10 years. Rates on 10-year and 30-year Treasury bonds—2.46% and 2.81%, respectively, on January 1, 2018—were 3.15% and 3.39%, respectively, on October 31, 2018. Investor concerns about an inverted yield curve waned, only to be replaced by concerns about the potentially negative influence of higher interest rates on economic activity.

October proved to be a difficult month for stock markets globally.

As interest rates and bond yields gained during October, stock markets struggled. For the month, the S&P 500 Index fell 6.84%, the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index (Net) dropped 8.13%, and the MSCI EM Index (Net) lost 8.71%. The Bureau of Economic Analysis released its first estimate of third-quarter GDP, which, at an annualized 3.5% rate, indicated that growth may be slowing compared with the second quarter. Readings on consumer sentiment and business spending were mixed.

 

 

 

The S&P 500 Index closed the first quarter with a negative return, the first negative quarterly return for the index since 2014.

 

 

 

 

 

8 

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) measures the changes in the price of a basket of goods and services purchased by urban consumers. The urban consumer population is deemed by many as a better representative measure of the general public because close to 90% of the country’s population lives in highly populated areas. You cannot invest directly in an index.


Table of Contents

 

4   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Letter to shareholders (unaudited)

Economic signals overseas also were mixed as the third quarter ended and the fourth quarter began. In early August, the BOE’s Monetary Policy Committee increased its key interest rate to 0.75%. The ECB and the BOJ maintained low interest rates and accommodative monetary policies. Amid rising trade uncertainty, the PBOC cut reserve requirement ratios and accelerated infrastructure spending and tax cuts for business enterprises and individuals. Nevertheless, a strengthening U.S. dollar and the trade tensions remained headwinds for investors overseas.

Don’t let short-term uncertainty derail long-term investment goals.

Periods of investment uncertainty can present challenges, but experience has taught us that maintaining long-term investment goals can be an effective way to plan for the future. Although diversification cannot guarantee an investment profit or prevent losses, we believe it can be an effective way to manage investment risk and potentially smooth out overall portfolio performance. We encourage investors to know their investments and to understand that appropriate levels of risk-taking may unlock opportunities.

Thank you for choosing to invest with Wells Fargo Funds. We appreciate your confidence in us and remain committed to helping you meet your financial needs.

Sincerely,

 

LOGO

Andrew Owen

President

Wells Fargo Funds

 

    

 

 

Notice to shareholders

On November 9, 2018, the Fund announced an extension of its open-market share repurchase program (the “Buyback Program”). Under the extended Buyback Program, the Fund may repurchase up to 10% of its outstanding shares during the period in open-market transactions beginning on January 1, 2019 and ending on December 31, 2019. The Fund’s Board of Trustees has delegated to Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC, the Fund’s adviser, discretion to administer the Buyback Program including the determination of the amount and timing of repurchases in accordance with the best interests of the Fund and subject to applicable legal limitations.

The Fund’s managed distribution plan provides for the declaration of monthly distributions to common shareholders of the Fund at an annual minimum fixed rate of 9% based on the Fund’s average monthly NAV per share over the prior 12 months. Under the managed distribution plan, monthly distributions may be sourced from income, paid-in capital, and/or capital gains, if any. To the extent that sufficient investment income is not available on a monthly basis, the Fund may distribute paid-in capital and/or capital gains, if any, in order to maintain its managed distribution level. You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the Fund’s distributions or from the terms of the managed distribution plan. Shareholders may elect to reinvest distributions received pursuant to the managed distribution plan in the Fund under the existing dividend reinvestment plan, which is described later in this report.

 

For further information about your Fund, contact your investment professional, visit our website at wellsfargofunds.com, or call us directly at 1-800-222-8222.


Table of Contents

 

This page is intentionally left blank.


Table of Contents

 

6   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Performance highlights (unaudited)

Investment objective

The Fund seeks a high level of current income consistent with limiting its overall exposure to domestic interest rate-risk.

Strategy summary

The Fund allocates its assets between three separate investment strategies, or sleeves. Under normal market conditions, the Fund will allocate approximately 30%-70% of its total assets to a sleeve consisting of non-investment-grade (high yield) corporate debt, including floating-rate high yield bank loan securities; approximately 10%-40% to a sleeve of foreign debt securities, including emerging market debt; and approximately 10%-30% to a sleeve of adjustable-rate and fixed-rate mortgage backed securities, and investment grade corporate bonds.

Adviser

Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC

Subadvisers

Wells Capital Management Incorporated

Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC

Portfolio managers

Christopher Y. Kauffman, CFA®

Michael Lee

Niklas Nordenfelt, CFA®

Alex Perrin

Phillip Susser

Lauren van Biljon, CFA®

Peter Wilson

Noah Wise, CFA®

Average annual total returns (%) as of October 31, 20181

 

     1 year      5 year      10 year  

Based on market value

     (1.91      4.84        10.31  

Based on net asset value (NAV)

     1.28        4.82        10.10  

Multi-Sector Income Blended Index2

     (1.10      2.68        6.95  

ICE BofAML U.S. Cash Pay High Yield Index3

     0.83        4.66        11.07  

J.P. Morgan GBI-EM Global Diversified Composite Index4

     (6.58      (2.59      4.07  

Bloomberg Barclays Credit Bond Index5

     (2.81      2.81        6.43  

Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Securitized Index6

     (1.48      1.76        3.64  

J.P. Morgan Global Government Index (ex U.S.)7

     (2.22      (0.64      2.25  

Figures quoted represent past performance, which is no guarantee of future results, and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder may pay on fund distributions or the sales of fund shares. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted, which assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains. Performance figures of the Fund do not reflect brokerage commissions that a shareholder would pay on the purchase and sale of shares. If taxes and such brokerage commissions had been reflected, performance would have been lower. To obtain performance information current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-800-222-8222.

The Fund’s expense ratio for the year ended October 31, 2018, was 2.14%, which includes 1.07% of interest expense.

 

Comparison of NAV vs. market value8

LOGO

 

The Fund is leveraged through a revolving credit facility. The use of leverage results in certain risks, including, among others, the likelihood of greater volatility of net asset value and the market value of common shares. Foreign investments are especially volatile and can rise or fall dramatically due to differences in the political and economic conditions of the host country. These risks are generally intensified in emerging markets. Derivatives involve additional risks, including interest rate risk, credit risk, the risk of improper valuation, and the risk of non-correlation to the relevant instruments that they are designed to hedge or closely track. Bond values fluctuate in response to the financial condition of individual issuers, general market and economic conditions, and changes in interest rates. Changes in market conditions and government policies may lead to periods of heightened volatility in the bond market and reduced liquidity for certain bonds held by the Fund. In general, when interest rates rise, bond values fall and investors may lose principal value. Interest rate changes and their impact on the Fund and its share price can be sudden and unpredictable. High-yield securities have a greater risk of default and tend to be more volatile than higher-rated debt securities. The Fund is exposed to mortgage- and asset-backed securities risk. This closed-end fund is no longer available as an initial public offering and is only offered through broker/dealers on the secondary market.

 

 

Please see footnotes on page 10.


Table of Contents

 

Performance highlights (unaudited)   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     7  

MANAGERS’ DISCUSSION

The Fund’s return based on market value was -1.91% for the 12-month period that ended October 31, 2018. During the same period, the Fund’s return based on its net asset value (NAV) was 1.28%. Based on its NAV return, the Fund outperformed the Multi-Sector Income Blended Index, which lost 1.10% over the same period.

Market conditions shifted across fixed-income sectors during the period.

During the reporting period, U.S. Treasuries, as measured by the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Treasury Index9 outperformed U.S. investment-grade corporate bonds, as measured by the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Corporate Bond Index10. Negative performance from the first and second quarters of 2018 was nearly offset by spread tightening seen in the third quarter, but market volatility in October and a sell-off in risk assets pushed performance down.

Securitized sectors underperformed U.S. Treasuries. Underperformance was driven by the mortgage-backed security (MBS) sector, where spreads widened in reaction to increased volatility and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s sale of bonds purchased as part of its quantitative easing policy. Commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), private-label residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), and asset-backed securities (ABS) outperformed when compared with U.S. Treasury bonds with the same duration. In general, lower-rated segments of these sectors outperformed higher-rated segments.

While high-yield market returns were modest—less than 1%, as measured by the ICE BofAML U.S. High Yield Index Constrained Index11—the asset class outperformed many of its higher-quality, fixed-income alternatives, as measured by the Bloomberg Barclays Aggregate Bond Index12. The return was primarily driven by interest income offset by principal loss. The principal loss was caused by a modest increase in spreads between Treasury bonds and corporate credits as well as higher Treasury yields. The lowest-quality bonds outperformed higher-quality bonds.

Investment flows into high yield have been negative for a number of years. Nonetheless, the market technicals have been strong. High yield has lacked new issuance, and more companies have been upgraded to investment grade (issuers that may be considered rising stars) than have been downgraded to high yield (companies considered fallen angels). This has had the effect of slightly shrinking the size of the high-yield market. By contrast, the bank-loan market has grown over this time and has been the source for financing many of the more aggressively structured deals. This has been a positive for high yield as credit quality by rating has improved. Currently, relative to history, high yield has fewer CCC-rated credits and more BB-rated credits in the benchmark.

From a fundamental perspective, levels of corporate leverage among U.S. companies included in the index remained elevated for this point in the credit cycle, though they declined as the end of the period approached. However, the cash-flow impact from these higher leverage levels is somewhat offset by issuers’ ability to pay low interest rates. A rising London Interbank Offered Rate and higher bond yields will gradually reduce these coverage levels, but rates continue to be low in the context of history.

In emerging markets, fixed-income assets traded in a wide range over the past 12 months, performing well at the start of the period before coming under pressure. Currencies underperformed fixed income, largely due to the strength of the U.S. dollar in the latter half of the reporting period. The Fund maintained its tilt toward higher-yielding emerging markets over the reporting period, but there have been some changes within the overarching bias. With South Africa at risk of losing its last investment-grade rating, the Fund’s exposure has been switched from domestic government bonds to AAA-rated supranationals like the European Investment Bank. The shift was intended to ensure that the Fund had access to the rand interest rate environment without breaching ratings requirements. The managers worked to increase diversification over the reporting period by adding exposure to Brazil and Peru, with the position in the former also in supranational securities. Exposure to India and Malaysia was increased at the expense of Mexico and Colombia. After a period of strong performance, the position in Hungarian government bonds was sold.

 

 

Please see footnotes on page 10.


Table of Contents

 

8   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Performance highlights (unaudited)
Ten largest holdings (%) as of October 31, 201813  

Malaysia, 4.23%, 6-30-2031

    2.89  

Mexico, 8.00%, 11-07-2047

    2.32  

NGPL PipeCo LLC, 7.77%, 12-15-2037

    1.82  

Colombia, 7.50%, 8-26-2026

    1.76  

LPL Holdings Incorporated, 5.75%, 9-15-2025

    1.76  

Indonesia, 8.38%, 9-15-2026

    1.72  

Ancestry.com Incorporated, 5.55%, 10-19-2023

    1.43  

India, 7.80%, 4-11-2021

    1.43  

Colombia, 7.00%, 9-11-2019

    1.42  

Indonesia, 8.25%, 5-15-2029

    1.37  

 

Credit quality as of October 31, 201814
LOGO

Contributors to performance included securitized sectors, high-yield bond security selection, and selected countries.

Within the mortgage and corporate sleeve of the Fund, securitized holdings generally added value during the period with ABS and RMBS the largest contributors. Agency CMBS and private-label CMBS contributed modestly. Overweights to the financial and industrial sectors were contributors, as was security selection within the financial sector.

Within the Fund’s high-yield portfolio sleeve, security selection was the main driver of positive performance during the period. Selection within the transportation services, cable and satellite, oil-field services, and finance sectors were the largest contributors to relative performance. Overall industry selection benefited performance, while maturity allocation did not have a meaningful impact on performance over the reporting period.

Within the Fund’s allocation to international and emerging market bonds, positions in South Africa, Colombia, and Hungary were amongst the largest positive contributors. Exposure to the Malaysian ringgit was also a value-add.

 

 

Selected securities, sector allocations, and the strength of the U.S. dollar restrained performance.

The Fund’s mortgage/corporate credit sleeve holdings in certain residential MBS and CMBS positions modestly detracted from performance during the period due to security-specific prepayment and ratings changes. Security selection within media and entertainment and midstream oil and gas production were also modest detractors.

The main detractors from Fund performance in the high-yield sleeve were an underweight to supermarkets, security selection within media and entertainment, and the combination of an underweight to and selection within the energy exploration and production sector.

Within international and emerging market bonds, the strength of the U.S. dollar in the latter half of the reporting period meant that emerging market currency exposures generally detracted from performance. The Indian rupee, Brazilian real, and Indonesian rupiah were the worst affected. The Indonesian bond market has struggled as well.

The management teams of the Fund’s portfolio sleeves have favorable market outlooks but remain risk-aware.

While the management team of the Fund’s mortgage and corporate bond sleeve expects fundamentals to remain favorable for credit over the remainder of the year, the team sees limited upside from current levels as valuations already reflect a benign macroeconomic environment. Business fundamentals were largely supportive of corporate creditworthiness during the period as earnings surged and profit margins remained high. On a year-over-year basis, both corporate revenue and cash flow increased by about 9% while leverage declined. The reduction in leverage was largely due to improvement in the commodity sector. Excluding commodities, credit metrics remained near the most aggressive levels of this cycle. With credit spreads only slightly wider than the recent tights, overall valuation remains a concern. The team still sees opportunity in BBB-rated names, though, and believes that some financials and utilities offer attractive relative value.

Within securitized sectors, the team remains focused on shorter-duration cash flows in the senior part of the capital structure as credit fundamentals remain stable. Approximately 63% of the Fund’s mortgage and corporate bond sleeve’s exposure is in corporate credit and around 35% is in fixed-rate and floating-rate mortgage securities. The largest industry exposures in the credit sector include banks, media and entertainment, and technology companies.

 

 

Please see footnotes on page 10.


Table of Contents

 

Performance highlights (unaudited)   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     9  

The management team for the Fund’s high-yield sleeve views most asset classes as richly valued based on historical measures and expects that, at some point in the future, there may be a better entry point to buy most asset classes, including high yield. High yield, however, is rather unique in that it has historically benefited from relatively high coupons, which cushioned downside risks of price declines. With a benign default outlook, high yield should continue to do well, on a relative basis, though idiosyncratic or individual bond risk is high. The sleeve’s management team leans toward spreads remaining flat from these levels in the short run before ultimately widening—potentially significantly—in the mid to longer term.

While the high-yield team continues to remain cautiously optimistic that this environment will continue in the near term, members are cognizant that ideal environments never last forever and that the longer spreads stay low, the risk of an ultimate sell-off increases. Over a full cycle, the high-yield sleeve’s management team believes the best way to insulate the Fund from periodic bouts of systemic fears and rebalancing is by following a bottom-up investment process that attempts to minimize downside risk while capturing the return potential of high-yield issuers.

The Fund’s international and emerging market bond sleeve has weathered a period of heightened volatility in the global markets, with the strength of the U.S. dollar creating a headwind to emerging market gains. There are reasons to be positive on the asset class. Positioning is light among investors when compared with long-term averages and valuations are extremely attractive, which may mitigate the risk of higher levels of outflows from the asset class. The growing narrative around a global slowdown could materially benefit local-currency emerging market bonds.

 

Effective maturity distribution as of October 31, 201815

 

LOGO

 

Country allocation as of October 31, 201815
LOGO
 

 

 

Please see footnotes on page 10.


Table of Contents

 

10   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Performance highlights (unaudited)

 

 

 

 

Ms. van Biljon became a portfolio manager of the Fund on October 3, 2018.

 

1

Total returns based on market value are calculated assuming a purchase of common stock on the first day and sale on the last day of the period reported. Total returns based on NAV are calculated based on the NAV at the beginning of the period and end of the period. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for the purposes of these calculations to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund’s Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan.

 

2 

Source: Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC. The Multi-Sector Income Blended Index is composed of 60% ICE BofAML U.S. Cash Pay High Yield Index, 18% J.P. Morgan GBI-EM Global Diversified Composite Index, 7.5% Bloomberg Barclays Credit Bond Index, 7.5% Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Securitized Index, and 7% J.P. Morgan Global Government Bond Index (ex U.S.). You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

3 

The ICE BofAML U.S. Cash Pay High Yield Index tracks the performance of U.S. dollar-denominated below investment grade corporate debt, currently in a coupon paying period, that is publicly issued in the U.S. domestic market. You cannot invest directly in an index. Copyright 2018. ICE Data Indices, LLC. All rights reserved.

 

4 

The J.P. Morgan GBI-EM Global Diversified Composite Index is an unmanaged index of debt instruments of 31 emerging countries. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

5

The Bloomberg Barclays Credit Bond Index is an unmanaged index of fixed income securities composed of securities from the Bloomberg Barclays Government/Corporate Bond Index, Mortgage-Backed Securities Index, and the Asset- Backed Securities Index. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

6 

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Securitized Index is an unmanaged composite of asset-backed securities, collateralized mortgage-backed securities (ERISA eligible), and fixed-rate mortgage-backed securities. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

7 

The J.P. Morgan Global Government Bond Index (ex U.S.) measures the total return from investing in 12 developed government bond markets: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the U.K. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

8 

This chart does not reflect any brokerage commissions charged on the purchase and sale of the Fund’s common stock. Dividends and distributions paid by the Fund are included in the Fund’s average annual total returns but have the effect of reducing the Fund’s NAV.

 

9

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Treasury Index is an unmanaged index of prices of U.S. Treasury bonds with maturities of 1 to 30 years. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

10 

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Corporate Bond Index is an unmanaged market-value-weighted index of investment-grade corporate fixed-rate debt issues with maturities of one year or more. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

11 

The ICE BofAML U.S. High Yield Constrained Index is a market-value-weighted index of all domestic and Yankee high-yield bonds, including deferred interest bonds and payment-in-kind securities. Issues included in the index have maturities of one year or more and have a credit rating lower than BBB-/Baa3 but are not in default. The ICE BofAML U.S. High Yield Constrained Index limits any individual issuer to a maximum of 2% benchmark exposure. You cannot invest directly in an index. Copyright 2018. ICE Data Indices, LLC. All rights reserved.

 

12 

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is a broad-based benchmark that measures the investment-grade, U.S.-dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market, including Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities, mortgage-backed securities (agency fixed-rate and hybrid adjustable-rate mortgage pass-throughs), asset-backed securities, and commercial mortgage-backed securities. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

13 

The ten largest holdings, excluding cash, cash equivalents and any money market funds, are calculated based on the value of the investments divided by total net assets of the Fund. Holdings are subject to change and may have changed since the date specified.

 

14 

The credit quality distribution of portfolio holdings reflected in the chart is based on ratings from Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s Investors Service, and/or Fitch Ratings Ltd. Credit quality ratings apply to the underlying holdings of the Fund and not to the Fund itself. The percentages of the Fund’s portfolio with the ratings depicted in the chart are calculated based on the total market value of fixed income securities held by the Fund. If a security was rated by all three rating agencies, the middle rating was utilized. If rated by two of the three rating agencies, the lower rating was utilized, and if rated by one of the rating agencies, that rating was utilized. Standard & Poor’s rates the creditworthiness of bonds, ranging from AAA (highest) to D (lowest). Ratings from A to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the rating categories. Standard & Poor’s rates the creditworthiness of short-term notes from SP-1 (highest) to SP-3 (lowest). Moody’s rates the creditworthiness of bonds, ranging from Aaa (highest) to C (lowest). Ratings Aa to B may be modified by the addition of a number 1 (highest) to 3 (lowest) to show relative standing within the ratings categories. Moody’s rates the creditworthiness of short-term U.S. tax-exempt municipal securities from MIG 1/VMIG 1 (highest) to SG (lowest). Fitch rates the creditworthiness of bonds, ranging from AAA (highest) to D (lowest). Credit quality distribution is subject to change and may have changed since the date specified.

 

15 

Amounts are calculated based on the total long-term investments of the Fund. These amounts are subject to change and may have changed since the date specified.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     11  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  

Agency Securities: 1.73%

         

FHLMC (5 Year Treasury Constant Maturity +2.05%) ±

    3.53     9-1-2032      $ 862,936      $ 891,123  

FHLMC

    8.50       7-1-2028        30,609        34,335  

FHLMC Series 1383 (1 Year Treasury Constant Maturity +2.25%) ±

    3.71       2-1-2037        170,074        179,180  

FHLMC Series 196 Class A (1 Month LIBOR +0.80%) ±

    3.08       12-15-2021        5,206        5,230  

FHLMC Series 2011-K16 Class B 144A±±

    4.60       11-25-2046        1,000,000        1,024,580  

FHLMC Series 2012-K17 Class B 144A±±

    4.34       12-25-2044        675,000        690,713  

FHLMC Series 2012-K18 Class B 144A±±

    4.26       1-25-2045        810,000        822,671  

FHLMC Series 2012-K706 Class B 144A±±

    3.97       11-25-2044        110,676        110,455  

FHLMC Series 2012-K706 Class C 144A±±

    3.97       11-25-2044        805,000        803,281  

FHLMC Series 2012-K707 Class B 144A±±

    3.86       1-25-2047        930,000        927,983  

FHLMC Series 2012-K711 Class B 144A±±

    3.57       8-25-2045        264,000        263,993  

FHLMC Series 2013-K30 Class B 144A±±

    3.56       6-25-2045        700,000        692,217  

FHLMC Series 2390 Class FD (1 Month LIBOR +0.45%) ±

    2.73       12-15-2031        16,784        16,876  

FHLMC Series 2567 Class FH (1 Month LIBOR +0.40%) ±

    2.68       2-15-2033        48,006        48,034  

FHLMC Series K007 Class X1 ±±(c)

    1.04       4-25-2020        760,355        8,716  

FHLMC Series K016 Class X1 ±±(c)

    1.50       10-25-2021        349,222        12,852  

FHLMC Series K020 Class X1 ±±(c)

    1.41       5-25-2022            6,318,832        259,181  

FNMA (6 Month LIBOR +1.64%) ±

    4.14       9-1-2037        50,252        51,935  

FNMA

    6.00       4-1-2033        58,756        60,008  

FNMA

    7.50       2-1-2030        21,117        21,212  

FNMA

    7.50       9-1-2030        27,512        27,637  

FNMA Series 1996-46 Class FA (1 Month LIBOR +0.50%) ±

    2.78       8-25-2021        2,125        2,126  

FNMA Series 1997-20 Class IO ±±(c)

    1.84       3-25-2027        427,182        9,502  

FNMA Series 2001-25 Class Z

    6.00       6-25-2031        83,473        88,671  

FNMA Series 2001-35 Class F (1 Month LIBOR +0.60%) ±

    2.88       7-25-2031        3,992        4,052  

FNMA Series 2001-57 Class F (1 Month LIBOR +0.50%) ±

    2.78       6-25-2031        4,019        4,040  

FNMA Series 2002-77 Class FH (1 Month LIBOR +0.40%) ±

    2.69       12-18-2032        29,498        29,517  

FNMA Series 2002-97 Class FR (1 Month LIBOR +0.55%) ±

    2.83       1-25-2033        6,949        7,038  

FNMA Series G91-16 Class F (1 Month LIBOR +0.45%) ±

    2.73       6-25-2021        3,632        3,644  

FNMA Series G92-17 Class F (1 Month LIBOR +1.05%) ±

    3.33       3-25-2022        16,519        16,695  

GNMA

    6.50       6-15-2028        20,765        22,650  

Total Agency Securities (Cost $6,948,879)

            7,140,147  
         

 

 

 

Asset-Backed Securities: 0.84%

         

Asset-Backed Funding Certificates Series 2003-AHL1 Class A1

    4.18       3-25-2033        121,432        120,307  

Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities Series 2002-2 Class A1 (1 Month LIBOR +0.66%) ±

    2.94       10-25-2032        147,906        148,371  

Countrywide Asset Backed Certificates Series 2003-5 Class AF5

    5.17       2-25-2034        83,122        85,193  

CVS Pass-Through Trust Series T

    6.04       12-10-2028        465,096        492,608  

Five Guys Funding LLC Series 17-1A Class A2 144A

    4.60       7-25-2047        992,500        986,322  

Mesa Trust Asset Backed Certificates Series 2001-5 Class A (1 Month LIBOR +0.80%) 144A±

    3.08       12-25-2031        11,062        10,915  

MMAF Equipment Finance LLC Series 2017-AA Class A4 144A

    2.41       8-16-2024        170,000        165,015  

Saxon Asset Securities Trust Series 2002-1 Class AF5

    5.91       12-25-2030        117,463        119,844  

Saxon Asset Securities Trust Series 2003-1 Class AF7

    4.03       6-25-2033        343,569        348,434  

Structured Asset Securities Corporation Series 1998-2 Class A (1 Month LIBOR +0.52%) ±

    2.80       2-25-2028        91,459        90,832  

Structured Asset Securities Corporation Series 2002-9 Class A2 (1 Month LIBOR +0.60%) ±

    2.88       10-25-2027        34,282        33,907  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

12   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  

Asset-Backed Securities (continued)

         

Student Loan Consolidation Center Series 2011-1 Class A (1 Month LIBOR +1.22%) 144A±

    3.50     10-25-2027      $ 406,054      $ 410,287  

World Financial Network Credit Card Master Trust Series 2016-C Class M

    1.98       8-15-2023        500,000        493,008  

Total Asset-Backed Securities (Cost $3,553,250)

            3,505,043  
         

 

 

 
                 Shares         

Common Stocks: 0.00%

         

Materials: 0.00%

         
Chemicals: 0.00%          

LyondellBasell Industries NV Class A

         9        803  
         

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks (Cost $779)

            803  
         

 

 

 
                 Principal         
Corporate Bonds and Notes: 80.16%

 

Communication Services: 11.74%

 

Diversified Telecommunication Services: 1.36%

 

AT&T Incorporated

    3.80       3-15-2022      $ 750,000        749,084  

GCI Incorporated

    6.75       6-1-2021        1,000,000        1,008,550  

Level 3 Financing Incorporated

    5.13       5-1-2023        975,000        967,688  

Level 3 Financing Incorporated

    5.25       3-15-2026        650,000        624,000  

Level 3 Financing Incorporated

    5.38       8-15-2022        300,000        300,375  

Level 3 Financing Incorporated

    5.38       1-15-2024        700,000        693,000  

Level 3 Financing Incorporated

    5.38       5-1-2025        625,000        610,156  

Level 3 Financing Incorporated

    5.63       2-1-2023        500,000        501,765  

Level 3 Financing Incorporated

    6.13       1-15-2021        175,000        175,438  
            5,630,056  
         

 

 

 
Entertainment: 0.39%

 

Live Nation Entertainment Incorporated 144A

    4.88       11-1-2024            1,400,000        1,340,500  

Live Nation Entertainment Incorporated 144A

    5.63       3-15-2026        250,000        250,000  
            1,590,500  
         

 

 

 
Media: 8.26%

 

Altice US Finance I Corporation 144A

    5.38       7-15-2023        1,395,000        1,394,735  

Altice US Finance I Corporation 144A

    5.50       5-15-2026        1,275,000        1,241,927  

CCO Holdings LLC 144A

    4.00       3-1-2023        100,000        95,250  

CCO Holdings LLC 144A

    5.00       2-1-2028        150,000        140,063  

CCO Holdings LLC

    5.13       2-15-2023        100,000        99,500  

CCO Holdings LLC 144A

    5.13       5-1-2027        450,000        423,563  

CCO Holdings LLC

    5.25       9-30-2022        1,250,000        1,256,250  

CCO Holdings LLC 144A

    5.38       5-1-2025        4,150,000        4,061,813  

CCO Holdings LLC 144A

    5.50       5-1-2026        215,000        209,356  

CCO Holdings LLC

    5.75       9-1-2023        50,000        50,375  

CCO Holdings LLC 144A

    5.75       2-15-2026        3,375,000        3,341,250  

CCO Holdings LLC 144A

    5.88       4-1-2024        1,250,000        1,260,938  

Cequel Communications Holdings 144A

    7.75       7-15-2025        2,030,000        2,141,650  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     13  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Media (continued)

 

Cinemark USA Incorporated

    4.88     6-1-2023      $ 375,000      $ 366,094  

CSC Holdings LLC 144A

    5.38       2-1-2028        425,000        400,563  

CSC Holdings LLC

    8.63       2-15-2019        383,000        386,830  

Dish Network Corporation

    3.38       8-15-2026        925,000        824,129  

EMI Music Publishing Group 144A

    7.63       6-15-2024        1,425,000        1,530,094  

Gray Television Incorporated 144A

    5.13       10-15-2024        450,000        428,063  

Gray Television Incorporated 144A

    5.88       7-15-2026        3,875,000        3,718,799  

Interpublic Group of Companies

    4.00       3-15-2022        750,000        748,721  

Lamar Media Corporation

    5.38       1-15-2024        375,000        375,469  

National CineMedia LLC

    6.00       4-15-2022        1,950,000        1,969,500  

Nexstar Broadcasting Group Incorporated 144A

    5.63       8-1-2024        850,000        811,750  

Nexstar Broadcasting Group Incorporated 144A

    6.13       2-15-2022        950,000        967,813  

Nielsen Finance LLC 144A

    5.00       4-15-2022        75,000        73,031  

Outfront Media Capital Corporation

    5.63       2-15-2024        20,000        20,025  

Outfront Media Capital Corporation

    5.88       3-15-2025        775,000        777,906  

Salem Media Group Incorporated 144A

    6.75       6-1-2024        2,200,000        1,969,000  

The E.W. Scripps Company 144A

    5.13       5-15-2025            2,460,000        2,312,400  

Time Warner Cable Incorporated

    4.00       1-15-2022        750,000        755,441  
            34,152,298  
         

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services: 1.73%

 

Sprint Capital Corporation

    6.88       11-15-2028        1,025,000        1,007,063  

Sprint Capital Corporation

    8.75       3-15-2032        1,625,000        1,767,350  

Sprint Communications Incorporated

    7.00       8-15-2020        225,000        232,875  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    4.00       4-15-2022        650,000        641,875  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    4.50       2-1-2026        125,000        116,993  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    4.75       2-1-2028        125,000        115,781  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    5.13       4-15-2025        425,000        418,625  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    5.38       4-15-2027        1,500,000        1,466,250  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    6.00       3-1-2023        300,000        306,780  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    6.38       3-1-2025        975,000        1,005,469  

T-Mobile USA Incorporated

    6.50       1-15-2024        80,000        82,800  
            7,161,861  
         

 

 

 

Consumer Discretionary: 7.61%

 

Auto Components: 1.39%

 

Allison Transmission Incorporated 144A

    4.75       10-1-2027        650,000        597,188  

Allison Transmission Incorporated 144A

    5.00       10-1-2024        2,250,000        2,183,895  

Cooper Tire & Rubber Company

    7.63       3-15-2027        1,710,000        1,833,975  

Cooper Tire & Rubber Company

    8.00       12-15-2019        600,000        624,000  

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

    8.75       8-15-2020        468,000        502,515  
            5,741,573  
         

 

 

 
Distributors: 0.28%

 

LKQ Corporation

    4.75       5-15-2023        1,075,000        1,037,375  

Spectrum Brands Incorporated

    6.63       11-15-2022        125,000        127,656  
            1,165,031  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

14   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Diversified Consumer Services: 1.44%

 

Carriage Services Incorporated 144A

    6.63     6-1-2026      $ 575,000      $ 576,438  

Service Corporation International

    4.63       12-15-2027        650,000        609,375  

Service Corporation International

    5.38       5-15-2024        100,000        101,125  

Service Corporation International

    7.50       4-1-2027        3,400,000        3,740,000  

Service Corporation International

    8.00       11-15-2021        850,000        928,625  
            5,955,563  
         

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure: 1.37%

 

CCM Merger Incorporated 144A

    6.00       3-15-2022        3,533,000        3,594,828  

Hilton Domestic Operating Company Incorporated 144A

    5.13       5-1-2026        425,000        415,438  

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Company 144A

    5.38       4-15-2026        1,725,000        1,673,250  
            5,683,516  
         

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail: 0.19%

 

Expedia Incorporated

    5.95       8-15-2020        750,000        778,733  
         

 

 

 
Multiline Retail: 0.14%

 

Macy’s Retail Holdings Incorporated

    3.88       1-15-2022        600,000        595,956  
         

 

 

 
Specialty Retail: 2.32%

 

Advance Auto Parts Incorporated

    4.50       1-15-2022        600,000        610,610  

Asbury Automotive Group Incorporated

    6.00       12-15-2024            1,175,000        1,154,438  

Group 1 Automotive Incorporated

    5.00       6-1-2022        200,000        195,000  

Group 1 Automotive Incorporated 144A

    5.25       12-15-2023        1,500,000        1,443,750  

Lithia Motors Incorporated 144A

    5.25       8-1-2025        945,000        890,663  

Penske Auto Group Incorporated

    3.75       8-15-2020        540,000        534,600  

Penske Auto Group Incorporated

    5.38       12-1-2024        2,150,000        2,088,188  

Penske Auto Group Incorporated

    5.75       10-1-2022        1,155,000        1,170,881  

Sonic Automotive Incorporated

    5.00       5-15-2023        849,000        789,629  

Sonic Automotive Incorporated

    6.13       3-15-2027        775,000        703,313  
            9,581,072  
         

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods: 0.48%

 

The William Carter Company

    5.25       8-15-2021        600,000        602,250  

Wolverine World Wide Incorporated 144A

    5.00       9-1-2026        1,411,000        1,365,143  
            1,967,393  
         

 

 

 

Consumer Staples: 1.50%

 

Beverages: 0.30%

 

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance Incorporated

    3.75       1-15-2022        600,000        600,271  

Cott Beverages Incorporated 144A

    5.50       4-1-2025        675,000        642,938  
            1,243,209  
         

 

 

 
Food Products: 0.97%

 

B&G Foods Incorporated

    4.63       6-1-2021        300,000        298,125  

B&G Foods Incorporated

    5.25       4-1-2025        1,050,000        1,000,125  

Darling Ingredients Incorporated

    5.38       1-15-2022        180,000        180,450  

Kraft Heinz Foods Company

    3.50       6-6-2022        750,000        741,247  

Lamb Weston Holdings Incorporated 144A

    4.63       11-1-2024        175,000        171,407  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     15  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Food Products (continued)          

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation 144A

    5.75     3-15-2025      $     1,305,000      $ 1,216,913  

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation 144A

    5.88       9-30-2027        150,000        136,125  

Prestige Brands Incorporated 144A

    6.38       3-1-2024        280,000        276,500  
            4,020,892  
         

 

 

 
Household Products: 0.06%

 

Central Garden & Pet Company

    5.13       2-1-2028        225,000        207,563  

Spectrum Brands Incorporated

    5.75       7-15-2025        50,000        48,500  
            256,063  
         

 

 

 
Tobacco: 0.17%

 

Reynolds American Incorporated

    6.88       5-1-2020        650,000        681,954  
         

 

 

 

Energy: 20.11%

 

Energy Equipment & Services: 6.14%

 

Bristow Group Incorporated

    6.25       10-15-2022        3,430,000        2,521,050  

Bristow Group Incorporated 144A

    8.75       3-1-2023        775,000        730,438  

Diamond Offshore Drilling Incorporated

    4.88       11-1-2043        1,325,000        901,000  

Era Group Incorporated

    7.75       12-15-2022        2,350,000        2,326,500  

Hilcorp Energy Company 144A

    5.00       12-1-2024        1,450,000        1,366,625  

Hilcorp Energy Company 144A

    5.75       10-1-2025        1,775,000        1,726,188  

Hilcorp Energy Company 144A

    6.25       11-1-2028        350,000        336,879  

Hornbeck Offshore Services Incorporated

    1.50       9-1-2019        4,750,000        4,277,703  

Hornbeck Offshore Services Incorporated

    5.00       3-1-2021        150,000        107,250  

Hornbeck Offshore Services Incorporated

    5.88       4-1-2020        1,325,000        1,003,688  

NGPL PipeCo LLC 144A

    4.38       8-15-2022        350,000        345,625  

NGPL PipeCo LLC 144A

    4.88       8-15-2027        550,000        529,375  

NGPL PipeCo LLC 144A

    7.77       12-15-2037        6,435,000        7,528,950  

Oceaneering International Incorporated

    6.00       2-1-2028        800,000        779,990  

USA Compression Partners LP 144A

    6.88       4-1-2026        850,000        864,875  
            25,346,136  
         

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 13.97%

 

Carrizo Oil & Gas Incorporated

    8.25       7-15-2025        800,000        830,000  

Cheniere Energy Partners LP

    5.25       10-1-2025        3,875,000        3,802,344  

Cheniere Energy Partners LP 144A

    5.63       10-1-2026        400,000        394,000  

Continental Resources Incorporated

    4.38       1-15-2028        250,000        241,728  

DCP Midstream Operating LP

    2.70       4-1-2019        725,000        719,563  

Denbury Resources Incorporated

    6.38       8-15-2021        3,209,000        2,984,370  

Denbury Resources Incorporated 144A

    9.25       3-31-2022        676,000        704,730  

El Paso LLC

    6.50       4-1-2020        750,000        781,223  

Enable Midstream Partner LP

    2.40       5-15-2019        2,350,000        2,337,509  

Enable Midstream Partner LP

    3.90       5-15-2024        1,750,000        1,685,515  

Enable Oklahoma Intrastate Transmission LLC 144A

    6.25       3-15-2020        250,000        257,238  

Energy Transfer Partners LP

    5.20       2-1-2022        750,000        775,354  

EnLink Midstream Partners LP

    4.40       4-1-2024        3,200,000        3,064,100  

EnLink Midstream Partners LP

    4.85       7-15-2026        600,000        568,466  

Exterran Partners LP

    6.00       4-1-2021        2,550,000        2,524,500  

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners LP

    3.95       9-1-2022        750,000        751,286  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

16   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)          

Kinder Morgan Incorporated

    6.50     9-15-2020      $ 285,000      $ 299,218  

Kinder Morgan Incorporated

    7.42       2-15-2037        800,000        903,386  

Murphy Oil Corporation

    4.45       12-1-2022        1,250,000        1,217,097  

Murphy Oil Corporation

    5.75       8-15-2025        185,000        184,020  

Murphy Oil Corporation

    6.88       8-15-2024        850,000        887,808  

Nabors Industries Incorporated

    0.75       1-15-2024            1,425,000        1,062,098  

Nabors Industries Incorporated

    4.63       9-15-2021        750,000        721,822  

Phillips 66

    4.30       4-1-2022        625,000        637,877  

Pioneer Natural Resources Company

    3.95       7-15-2022        750,000        751,187  

Rockies Express Pipeline LLC 144A

    5.63       4-15-2020        3,500,000        3,575,950  

Rockies Express Pipeline LLC 144A

    6.88       4-15-2040        3,074,000        3,342,975  

Rockies Express Pipeline LLC 144A

    7.50       7-15-2038        240,000        274,800  

Rose Rock Midstream LP

    5.63       7-15-2022        1,300,000        1,248,000  

Rose Rock Midstream LP

    5.63       11-15-2023        825,000        779,625  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC

    5.63       2-1-2021        600,000        620,821  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC

    5.63       4-15-2023        1,500,000        1,579,245  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC

    5.75       5-15-2024        1,000,000        1,059,119  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC

    6.25       3-15-2022        1,575,000        1,678,180  

SemGroup Corporation

    6.38       3-15-2025        3,425,000        3,313,688  

SemGroup Corporation

    7.25       3-15-2026        1,000,000        976,250  

Southern Star Central Corporation 144A

    5.13       7-15-2022        925,000        909,969  

Southwestern Energy Company

    7.50       4-1-2026        400,000        407,000  

Southwestern Energy Company

    7.75       10-1-2027        400,000        408,000  

Summit Midstream Holdings LLC

    5.75       4-15-2025        225,000        215,438  

Tallgrass Energy Partners LP 144A

    4.75       10-1-2023        625,000        618,359  

Tallgrass Energy Partners LP 144A

    5.50       9-15-2024        5,200,000        5,232,500  

Tallgrass Energy Partners LP 144A

    5.50       1-15-2028        150,000        148,284  

Tesoro Logistics LP

    6.38       5-1-2024        450,000        475,650  

Ultra Resources Incorporated 144A

    7.13       4-15-2025        2,425,000        1,067,000  

Williams Partners LP

    3.35       8-15-2022        750,000        730,107  
            57,747,399  
         

 

 

 

Financials: 7.96%

 

Banks: 2.26%

 

Bank of America Corporation

    5.70       1-24-2022        250,000        265,225  

Citigroup Incorporated

    4.13       3-9-2021        60,000        59,850  

Citigroup Incorporated

    4.50       1-14-2022        250,000        255,369  

Citigroup Incorporated

    6.13       3-9-2028        75,000        77,813  

City National Bank

    5.38       7-15-2022        500,000        522,186  

International Bank for Reconstruction & Development

    7.50       6-9-2021        5,000,000        1,345,291  

International Bank for Reconstruction & Development

    8.25       6-22-2023        9,000,000        2,372,007  

International Finance Corporation

    7.50       5-9-2022        14,000,000        3,704,296  

JPMorgan Chase & Company

    3.38       5-1-2023        750,000        731,350  
            9,333,387  
         

 

 

 
Capital Markets: 0.50%

 

ACE Securities Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.63%) ±

    4.91       6-25-2033        155,696        155,628  

Blackstone Holdings Finance Company LLC 144A

    5.88       3-15-2021        750,000        788,703  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     17  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Capital Markets (continued)          

Goldman Sachs Group Incorporated

    5.75     1-24-2022      $ 750,000      $ 792,589  

MSCI Incorporated 144A

    5.38       5-15-2027        350,000        346,500  
            2,083,420  
         

 

 

 
Consumer Finance: 1.51%

 

Ally Financial Incorporated

    8.00       12-31-2018        780,000        784,875  

Ally Financial Incorporated

    8.00       3-15-2020        880,000        922,900  

Discover Financial Services

    5.20       4-27-2022        750,000        774,615  

FirstCash Incorporated 144A

    5.38       6-1-2024        575,000        566,375  

General Motors Financial Company Incorporated

    3.70       5-9-2023        750,000        724,917  

Navient Corporation

    8.00       3-25-2020        930,000        970,688  

Springleaf Finance Corporation

    6.00       6-1-2020        825,000        842,531  

Springleaf Finance Corporation

    7.13       3-15-2026        700,000        663,250  
            6,250,151  
         

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services: 1.96%

 

ING US Incorporated

    5.50       7-15-2022        327,000        345,058  

LPL Holdings Incorporated 144A

    5.75       9-15-2025            7,500,000        7,275,000  

Vantiv LLC 144A

    4.38       11-15-2025        500,000        471,875  
            8,091,933  
         

 

 

 
Insurance: 1.73%

 

American International Group Incorporated

    4.88       6-1-2022        750,000        771,699  

AmWINS Group Incorporated 144A

    7.75       7-1-2026        1,125,000        1,155,938  

Hartford Financial Services Group Incorporated

    5.13       4-15-2022        650,000        678,202  

HUB International Limited 144A

    7.00       5-1-2026        500,000        488,000  

Liberty Mutual Group Incorporated 144A

    4.95       5-1-2022        750,000        772,158  

ProAssurance Corporation

    5.30       11-15-2023        750,000        784,531  

Prudential Financial Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +2.38%) ±

    4.50       9-15-2047        750,000        682,500  

USIS Merger Subordinate Incorporated 144A

    6.88       5-1-2025        1,175,000        1,145,625  

W.R. Berkley Corporation

    4.63       3-15-2022        650,000        665,054  
            7,143,707  
         

 

 

 

Health Care: 8.02%

 

Biotechnology: 0.18%

 

Amgen Incorporated

    3.63       5-15-2022        750,000        748,534  
         

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies: 1.38%

 

Hill-Rom Holdings Incorporated 144A

    5.00       2-15-2025        400,000        386,000  

Hill-Rom Holdings Incorporated 144A

    5.75       9-1-2023        200,000        202,250  

Hologic Incorporated 144A

    4.38       10-15-2025        1,925,000        1,804,688  

Hologic Incorporated 144A

    4.63       2-1-2028        225,000        205,594  

Kinetics Concepts Incorporated 144A

    7.88       2-15-2021        1,425,000        1,457,063  

Surgery Center Holdings Incorporated 144A

    6.75       7-1-2025        500,000        468,750  

Surgery Center Holdings Incorporated 144A

    8.88       4-15-2021        1,150,000        1,181,625  
            5,705,970  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

18   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Health Care Providers & Services: 5.44%

 

Acadia Healthcare Company Incorporated

    6.50     3-1-2024      $ 190,000      $ 193,135  

Centene Corporation 144A

    5.38       6-1-2026        575,000        583,625  

Centene Corporation

    6.13       2-15-2024        325,000        339,625  

CHS Incorporated

    5.13       8-1-2021        1,850,000        1,752,875  

Coventry Health Care Incorporated

    5.45       6-15-2021        750,000        780,997  

Davita Incorporated

    5.00       5-1-2025        950,000        894,188  

Express Scripts Holding Company

    3.90       2-15-2022        665,000        666,970  

HCA Incorporated

    5.25       6-15-2026        325,000        330,688  

HCA Incorporated

    6.50       2-15-2020        1,400,000        1,445,500  

HealthSouth Corporation

    5.75       9-15-2025        575,000        569,250  

Mednax Incorporated 144A

    5.25       12-1-2023        475,000        475,000  

MPH Acquisition Holdings LLC 144A

    7.13       6-1-2024        2,861,000        2,906,261  

MPT Operating Partnership LP

    5.00       10-15-2027        1,100,000        1,033,670  

MPT Operating Partnership LP

    5.25       8-1-2026        1,575,000        1,519,875  

MPT Operating Partnership LP

    6.38       3-1-2024        110,000        113,850  

NVA Holdings Company 144A

    6.88       4-1-2026        200,000        197,500  

Polaris Intermediate Corporation 144A

    8.50       12-1-2022        475,000        486,875  

Select Medical Corporation

    6.38       6-1-2021        3,050,000        3,076,688  

Tenet Healthcare Corporation

    4.63       7-15-2024        436,000        420,239  

Tenet Healthcare Corporation

    6.00       10-1-2020        700,000        716,835  

Vizient Incorporated 144A

    10.38       3-1-2024            3,550,000        3,869,500  

Wellcare Health Plans Incorporated 144A

    5.38       8-15-2026        125,000        124,688  
            22,497,834  
         

 

 

 
Health Care Technology: 0.59%

 

Change Healthcare Holdings Incorporated 144A

    5.75       3-1-2025        1,950,000        1,906,125  

Quintiles IMS Holdings Incorporated 144A

    4.88       5-15-2023        300,000        296,625  

Quintiles IMS Holdings Incorporated 144A

    5.00       10-15-2026        225,000        216,491  
            2,419,241  
         

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services: 0.25%

 

Charles River Laboratories Incorporated 144A

    5.50       4-1-2026        275,000        274,313  

Life Technologies Corporation

    6.00       3-1-2020        750,000        773,855  
            1,048,168  
         

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals: 0.18%

 

Watson Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

    3.25       10-1-2022        750,000        728,082  
         

 

 

 

Industrials: 5.48%

 

Aerospace & Defense: 0.70%

 

BAE Systems Holdings Incorporated 144A

    3.80       10-7-2024        1,000,000        983,092  

L-3 Communications Corporation

    4.95       2-15-2021        750,000        769,057  

RBS Global & Rexnord LLC 144A

    4.88       12-15-2025        1,200,000        1,125,000  
            2,877,149  
         

 

 

 
Airlines: 0.86%

 

Aviation Capital Group Corporation 144A

    6.75       4-6-2021        1,100,000        1,171,601  

BBA US Holdings Incorporated 144A

    5.38       5-1-2026        2,025,000        2,002,219  

Delta Air Lines Incorporated

    4.75       11-7-2021        358,856        364,002  
            3,537,822  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     19  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Commercial Services & Supplies: 3.13%

 

Advanced Disposal Services Incorporated 144A

    5.63     11-15-2024      $     1,750,000      $ 1,706,250  

Aramark Services Incorporated 144A

    5.00       2-1-2028        225,000        213,469  

Aramark Services Incorporated

    5.13       1-15-2024        545,000        542,275  

Covanta Holding Corporation

    5.88       3-1-2024        1,530,000        1,526,175  

Covanta Holding Corporation

    5.88       7-1-2025        900,000        873,000  

Covanta Holding Corporation

    6.00       1-1-2027        1,150,000        1,109,750  

Covanta Holding Corporation

    6.38       10-1-2022        1,750,000        1,787,188  

KAR Auction Services Incorporated 144A

    5.13       6-1-2025        4,950,000        4,690,125  

Waste Pro USA Incorporated 144A

    5.50       2-15-2026        375,000        355,313  

Wrangler Buyer Corporation 144A

    6.00       10-1-2025        125,000        134,063  
            12,937,608  
         

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment: 0.12%

 

Resideo Funding Incorporated 144A

    6.13       11-1-2026        500,000        502,615  
         

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates: 0.05%

 

General Electric Capital Corporation

    4.65       10-17-2021        187,000        190,102  
         

 

 

 
Machinery: 0.34%

 

Stevens Holding Company Incorporated 144A

    6.13       10-1-2026        1,425,000        1,419,827  
         

 

 

 
Professional Services: 0.13%

 

Verisk Analytics Incorporated

    5.80       5-1-2021        530,000        556,018  
         

 

 

 
Road & Rail: 0.15%

 

TTX Company 144A

    2.60       6-15-2020        650,000        639,736  
         

 

 

 

Information Technology: 6.23%

 

Communications Equipment: 0.37%

 

CommScope Technologies Finance LLC 144A

    6.00       6-15-2025        825,000        802,313  

Motorola Solutions Incorporated

    3.75       5-15-2022        750,000        738,218  
            1,540,531  
         

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components: 0.15%

 

Keysight Technologies

    4.60       4-6-2027        600,000        596,259  
         

 

 

 
IT Services: 2.75%

 

Cardtronics Incorporated

    5.13       8-1-2022        560,000        537,600  

Cardtronics Incorporated 144A

    5.50       5-1-2025        1,390,000        1,292,700  

First Data Corporation 144A

    5.00       1-15-2024        2,725,000        2,697,750  

First Data Corporation 144A

    5.38       8-15-2023        332,000        334,905  

First Data Corporation 144A

    5.75       1-15-2024        375,000        377,344  

First Data Corporation 144A

    7.00       12-1-2023        975,000        1,011,075  

Gartner Incorporated 144A

    5.13       4-1-2025        1,400,000        1,389,500  

Infor Software Parent LLC (PIK at 7.88%) 144A¥

    7.13       5-1-2021        550,000        552,750  

Information Incorporated

    6.50       5-15-2022        550,000        548,625  

Zayo Group LLC 144A

    5.75       1-15-2027        1,150,000        1,127,230  

Zayo Group LLC

    6.00       4-1-2023        75,000        76,500  

Zayo Group LLC

    6.38       5-15-2025        1,400,000        1,431,500  
            11,377,479  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

20   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Software: 0.25%

 

CDK Global Incorporated

    5.00     10-15-2024      $ 225,000      $ 222,120  

CDK Global Incorporated

    5.88       6-15-2026        175,000        176,313  

Fair Isaac Corporation 144A

    5.25       5-15-2026        175,000        172,594  

Symantec Corporation 144A

    5.00       4-15-2025        475,000        446,874  
            1,017,901  
         

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals: 2.71%

 

Dell International LLC 144A

    5.88       6-15-2021        1,000,000        1,013,793  

Dell International LLC 144A

    7.13       6-15-2024        4,525,000        4,788,872  

Hewlett-Packard Company

    4.05       9-15-2022        750,000        757,259  

NCR Corporation

    5.88       12-15-2021        5,000        5,006  

NCR Corporation

    6.38       12-15-2023            4,650,000        4,638,375  
            11,203,305  
         

 

 

 

Materials: 2.18%

 

Chemicals: 0.27%

 

Dow Chemical Company

    4.13       11-15-2021        750,000        761,049  

Valvoline Incorporated

    5.50       7-15-2024        375,000        372,656  
            1,133,705  
         

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging: 1.91%

 

Ball Corporation

    4.88       3-15-2026        575,000        567,094  

Ball Corporation

    5.00       3-15-2022        25,000        25,375  

Ball Corporation

    5.25       7-1-2025        190,000        191,188  

Berry Global Incorporated

    5.13       7-15-2023        350,000        348,250  

Berry Global Incorporated

    6.00       10-15-2022        215,000        219,569  

Crown Americas LLC 144A

    4.75       2-1-2026        850,000        802,188  

Crown Cork & Seal Company Incorporated

    7.38       12-15-2026        35,000        37,450  

Flex Acquisition Company Incorporated 144A

    6.88       1-15-2025        1,500,000        1,402,500  

Flex Acquisition Company Incorporated 144A

    7.88       7-15-2026        275,000        265,458  

Owens-Brockway Glass Container Incorporated 144A

    5.88       8-15-2023        325,000        323,781  

Owens-Illinois Incorporated 144A

    6.38       8-15-2025        3,100,000        3,115,500  

Reynolds Group Issuer Incorporated 144A

    5.13       7-15-2023        200,000        195,750  

Sealed Air Corporation 144A

    5.25       4-1-2023        325,000        321,750  

Silgan Holdings Incorporated

    5.50       2-1-2022        75,000        75,750  
            7,891,603  
         

 

 

 
Metals & Mining: 0.00%

 

Indalex Holdings Corporation (a)†

    11.50       2-1-2020        3,170,000        0  
         

 

 

 

Real Estate: 4.45%

 

Equity REITs: 4.45%

 

Alexandria Real Estate Company

    4.60       4-1-2022        650,000        665,580  

American Tower Corporation

    5.90       11-1-2021        650,000        688,198  

CoreCivic Incorporated

    5.00       10-15-2022        575,000        555,594  

DDR Corporation

    4.70       6-1-2027        600,000        597,130  

Equinix Incorporated

    5.75       1-1-2025        1,275,000        1,298,906  

Equinix Incorporated

    5.88       1-15-2026        425,000        431,375  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     21  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Equity REITs (continued)          

ESH Hospitality Incorporated 144A

    5.25     5-1-2025      $ 1,700,000      $ 1,608,625  

Essex Portfolio LP

    3.63       8-15-2022        750,000        741,406  

Iron Mountain Incorporated 144A

    5.25       3-15-2028        675,000        605,813  

Iron Mountain Incorporated 144A

    5.38       6-1-2026        150,000        138,000  

Iron Mountain Incorporated

    6.00       8-15-2023        2,500,000        2,559,375  

MGM Growth Properties LLC

    4.50       1-15-2028        400,000        358,000  

Omega HealthCare Investors Incorporated

    4.50       4-1-2027        600,000        574,028  

Sabra Health Care LP

    5.38       6-1-2023        900,000        895,500  

Sabra Health Care REIT Incorporated

    5.50       2-1-2021        1,225,000        1,241,078  

SBA Communications Corporation

    4.00       10-1-2022        225,000        215,438  

SBA Communications Corporation

    4.88       7-15-2022        640,000        636,800  

The Geo Group Incorporated

    5.13       4-1-2023        800,000        751,000  

The Geo Group Incorporated

    5.88       1-15-2022        1,565,000        1,547,394  

The Geo Group Incorporated

    5.88       10-15-2024        840,000        778,932  

The Geo Group Incorporated

    6.00       4-15-2026        184,000        168,360  

Ventas Realty LP

    4.25       3-1-2022        650,000        660,514  

Welltower Incorporated

    5.25       1-15-2022        650,000        676,140  
            18,393,186  
         

 

 

 

Utilities: 4.88%

 

Electric Utilities: 0.19%

 

Great Plains Energy Incorporated

    4.85       6-1-2021        750,000        765,479  
         

 

 

 
Gas Utilities: 0.22%

 

AmeriGas Partners LP

    5.75       5-20-2027        1,000,000        927,500  
         

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers: 4.16%

 

NextEra Energy Operating Partners LP 144A

    4.25       9-15-2024        175,000        166,250  

NextEra Energy Operating Partners LP 144A

    4.50       9-15-2027        325,000        299,813  

NSG Holdings LLC 144A

    7.75       12-15-2025        4,670,629        5,044,279  

Pattern Energy Group Incorporated 144A

    5.88       2-1-2024        5,225,000        5,172,750  

TerraForm Global Operating LLC 144A

    6.13       3-1-2026        1,175,000        1,092,750  

TerraForm Power Operating LLC 144A

    4.25       1-31-2023        3,025,000        2,866,188  

TerraForm Power Operating LLC 144A

    5.00       1-31-2028        675,000        603,281  

TerraForm Power Operating LLC 144A

    6.63       6-15-2025        1,850,000        1,928,625  
            17,173,936  
         

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities: 0.31%

 

Ameren Illinois Company

    9.75       11-15-2018        500,000        501,260  

CMS Energy Corporation

    5.05       3-15-2022        750,000        779,595  
            1,280,855  
         

 

 

 

Total Corporate Bonds and Notes (Cost $332,151,227)

 

     331,312,248  
  

 

 

 

Foreign Corporate Bonds and Notes @: 4.69%

 

Communication Services: 0.30%

 

Wireless Telecommunication Services: 0.30%

 

America Movil SAB de CV (MXN)

    7.13       12-9-2024            28,850,000        1,242,311  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

22   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  

Energy: 0.28%

 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 0.28%

 

Petroleos Mexicanos 144A (MXN)

    7.19     9-12-2024        28,200,000      $ 1,166,373  
         

 

 

 

Financials: 4.11%

 

Banks: 4.04%

 

European Investment Bank (BRL)

    7.25       6-28-2021        9,000,000        2,401,451  

European Investment Bank (ZAR)

    7.50       4-13-2022        9,000,000        2,379,956  

European Investment Bank (ZAR)

    8.00       5-5-2027        21,000,000        1,334,320  

European Investment Bank (ZAR)

    8.38       7-29-2022        40,000,000        2,708,314  

European Investment Ban (ZAR)

    8.75       8-18-2025        20,000,000        1,335,028  

European Investment Bank (ZAR)

    9.00       3-31-2021        17,400,000        1,199,323  

International Bank for Reconstruction & Development (ZAR)

    7.00       6-7-2023        15,000,000        953,228  

KfW (AUD)

    5.00       3-19-2024        1,300,000        1,025,472  

Landwirtschaftliche Rentenbank (ZAR)

    6.00       3-18-2019        35,000,000        2,355,203  

Landwirtschaftliche Rentenbank (ZAR)

    8.25       5-23-2022        15,000,000        1,009,354  
            16,701,649  
         

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services: 0.07%

 

AA Bond Company Limited (GBP)

    4.25       7-31-2043        200,000        262,699  
         

 

 

 

Total Foreign Corporate Bonds and Notes (Cost $23,266,155)

 

     19,373,032  
  

 

 

 

Foreign Government Bonds @: 20.86%

 

Colombia (COP)

    6.00       4-28-2028        6,800,000,000        1,943,283  

Colombia (COP)

    7.00       9-11-2019        18,500,000,000        5,855,294  

Colombia (COP)

    7.50       8-26-2026        22,725,000,000        7,275,892  

India (INR)

    7.16       5-20-2023        420,000,000        5,526,540  

India (INR)

    7.80       4-11-2021        435,000,000        5,901,576  

Indonesia (IDR)

    7.50       8-15-2032        57,000,000,000        3,331,327  

Indonesia (IDR)

    8.25       5-15-2029        88,615,000,000        5,668,446  

Indonesia (IDR)

    8.38       9-15-2026            110,000,000,000        7,128,904  

Malaysia (MYR)

    4.18       7-15-2024        19,850,000        4,787,182  

Malaysia (MYR)

    4.23       6-30-2031        51,300,000        11,933,941  

Mexico (MXN)

    5.75       3-5-2026        72,000,000        2,964,430  

Mexico (MXN)

    8.00       11-7-2047        217,500,000        9,604,660  

New Zealand (NZD)

    2.75       4-15-2037        1,950,000        1,253,400  

New Zealand (NZD)

    4.50       4-15-2027        6,085,000        4,610,031  

Queensland Treasury (AUD)

    5.75       7-22-2024        4,100,000        3,379,863  

Republic of Peru (PEN)

    6.35       8-12-2028        16,400,000        5,052,791  

Total Foreign Government Bonds (Cost $97,229,531)

 

     86,217,560  
  

 

 

 

Loans: 21.35%

 

Communication Services: 2.36%

 

Diversified Telecommunication Services: 0.72%

 

Level 3 Financing Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.53       2-22-2024      $ 555,420        555,681  

Telesat Canada (3 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.89       11-17-2023        2,435,616        2,435,007  
            2,990,688  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     23  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Media: 1.53%

 

A-L Parent LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±‡

    5.56     12-1-2023      $ 3,438,750      $ 3,438,750  

Altice US Finance I Corporation <%%

    0.00       1-10-2026        500,000        498,595  

Altice US Finance I Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.55       7-28-2025        708,814        707,191  

CSC Holdings LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.78       1-25-2026        149,250        148,923  

Hubbard Radio LLC <%%

    0.00       3-28-2025        1,240,715        1,237,092  

National CineMedia LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±

    5.31       6-20-2025        299,250        298,876  
            6,329,427  
         

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services: 0.11%

 

Sprint Communications Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.81       2-2-2024        443,250        442,833  
         

 

 

 

Consumer Discretionary: 4.20%

 

Auto Components: 0.52%

 

Allison Transmission Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +1.75%) ±

    4.04       9-23-2022        1,836,180        1,844,443  

Belron Finance US LLC (3 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.84       11-7-2024        297,750        298,122  
            2,142,565  
         

 

 

 
Distributors: 0.59%

 

Spin Holdco Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.69       11-14-2022        2,441,239        2,440,726  
         

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing: 0.09%

 

TKC Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +3.75%) ±

    6.06       2-1-2023        394,000        393,858  
         

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure: 2.70%

 

CCM Merger Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    4.55       8-8-2021        604,284        604,735  

Four Seasons Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       11-30-2023        894,723        894,240  

Greektown Holdings LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       4-25-2024        4,949,875        4,929,234  

Montreign Operating Company LLC (1 Month LIBOR +8.25%) ±

    10.55       1-24-2023            5,348,125        4,746,461  
            11,174,670  
         

 

 

 
Household Products: 0.22%

 

Anastasia Parent LLC Term Loan (2 Month LIBOR +3.75%) ±

    6.03       8-11-2025        275,000        273,969  

Anchor Glass Container Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +7.75%) ±

    10.04       12-7-2024        650,000        425,750  

Lifetime Brands Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +3.50%) ‡

    5.80       2-28-2025        199,000        197,508  
            897,227  
         

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail: 0.08%

 

Shutterfly Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.06       8-17-2024        324,188        324,025  
         

 

 

 

Consumer Staples: 0.07%

 

Food Products: 0.07%

 

CHG PPC Parent LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±‡

    5.05       3-31-2025        124,688        124,220  

Prestige Brands Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       1-26-2024        141,182        141,308  
            265,528  
         

 

 

 

Energy: 1.00%

 

Energy Equipment & Services: 0.15%

 

ExGen Renewables IV LLC (3 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±‡

    5.32       11-28-2024        637,455        642,235  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

24   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 0.85%

 

Encino Acquisition Partners Holdings LLC <%%‡

    0.00     9-21-2025      $ 600,000      $ 609,000  

Grizzly Acquisitions Incorporated (2 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.65       10-1-2025        175,000        175,730  

Lucid Energy Group II Borrower LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±

    5.28       2-17-2025        223,875        219,818  

Traverse Midstream Partners LLC (6 Month LIBOR +4.00%) ±

    6.60       9-27-2024        625,000        628,519  

Ultra Resources Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±<

    5.47       4-12-2024        2,000,000        1,869,280  
            3,502,347  
         

 

 

 

Financials: 3.03%

 

Capital Markets: 0.61%

 

EIG Management Company LLC (3 Month LIBOR +3.75%) ±‡

    6.06       2-22-2025        124,375        124,375  

Focus Financial Partners LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.80       7-3-2024        49,875        49,906  

Global Business Travel Holdigs Limited (3 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±‡

    4.84       7-20-2025        150,000        150,563  

Neptune Finco Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.53       7-17-2025        774,218        771,733  

Russell Investments US Institutional Holdco Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±‡

    5.55       6-1-2023        591,635        592,007  

Tortoise Borrower LLC (1 Month LIBOR +4.00%) ±‡

    5.80       1-31-2025        200,000        200,750  

Victory Capital Holdings Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.14       2-12-2025        632,828        633,619  
            2,522,953  
         

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services: 0.01%

 

TransUnion (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       6-19-2025        49,875        49,741  
         

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services: 1.23%

 

LPL Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±‡

    4.53       9-23-2024        1,066,329        1,067,001  

Nielsen Finance LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.28       10-4-2023        465,536        463,012  

Resolute Investment Managers Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±‡

    5.64       4-30-2022        2,433,300        2,443,958  

Resolute Investment Managers Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +7.50%) ±‡

    10.03       4-30-2023            1,090,000        1,098,175  
            5,072,146  
         

 

 

 
Insurance: 1.18%

 

Alliant Holdings Intermediate LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±

    5.28       5-9-2025        1,378,809        1,376,892  

AmWINS Group Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       1-25-2024        888,398        889,286  

Hub International Limited (2 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±

    5.49       4-25-2025        1,246,875        1,242,586  

Solera Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       3-3-2023        1,082,982        1,080,783  

USI Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±

    5.39       5-16-2024        297,373        295,515  
            4,885,062  
         

 

 

 

Health Care: 2.40%

 

Health Care Equipment & Supplies: 0.45%

 

DJO Finance LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.60       6-8-2020        551,475        550,212  

Kinetic Concepts Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.64       2-2-2024        1,319,536        1,323,112  
            1,873,324  
         

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services: 0.63%

 

CHS Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.56       1-27-2021        516,901        505,390  

MPH Acquisition Holdings LLC (3 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.14       6-7-2023        445,389        443,906  

Press Ganey Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +6.50%) ±‡

    8.80       10-21-2024        516,856        519,441  

Surgery Center Holdings Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.57       9-2-2024        522,190        520,754  

Team Health Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±‡

    5.05       2-6-2024        441,765        416,916  

Vizient Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       2-13-2023        192,929        193,571  
            2,599,978  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     25  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Health Care Technology: 0.68%

 

Change Healthcare Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05     3-1-2024      $ 652,311      $ 651,254  

Emerald Bidco Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       10-23-2023        2,176,890        2,177,564  
            2,828,818  
         

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services: 0.09%

 

Syneos Health Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       8-1-2024        371,391        370,154  
         

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals: 0.55%

 

Endo Finance LLC (1 Month LIBOR +4.25%) ±

    6.56       4-29-2024        292,979        294,016  

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±

    5.27       6-2-2025        1,966,530        1,966,077  
            2,260,093  
         

 

 

 

Industrials: 3.03%

 

Aerospace & Defense: 0.59%

 

TransDigm Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.80       8-22-2024            2,442,747        2,429,971  
         

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies: 1.25%

 

Advanced Disposal Services Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.46       11-10-2023        1,159,660        1,158,941  

Advantage Sales & Marketing LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.55       7-25-2021        223,304        202,463  

Advantage Sales & Marketing LLC (1 Month LIBOR +6.50%) ±

    8.80       7-25-2022        1,250,000        1,041,663  

KAR Auction Services Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.94       3-9-2023        153,611        153,676  

Sedgwick Claims Management Services Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       3-1-2021        516,134        515,814  

WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±‡

    5.55       5-14-2022        168,769        168,558  

WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems LLC (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±‡

    5.55       5-14-2022        963,681        962,477  

Wrangler Buyer Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.01       9-27-2024        968,061        968,235  
            5,171,827  
         

 

 

 
Communications Equipment: 0.26%

 

Charter Communications Operating LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.31       4-30-2025        1,091,750        1,091,619  
         

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment: 0.13%

 

Generac Power Systems Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +1.75%) ±‡

    4.01       5-31-2023        425,780        425,248  

Resideo Funding Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±‡

    4.49       10-24-2025        100,000        100,188  
            525,436  
         

 

 

 
Machinery: 0.61%

 

Columbus McKinnon Corporation (3 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±‡

    4.89       1-31-2024        933,101        931,935  

Gates Global LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       4-1-2024        603,147        603,418  

Harsco Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.56       12-6-2024        99,750        99,938  

RBS Global Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.29       8-21-2024        750,000        750,563  

Restaurant Technologies Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±‡

    5.65       10-1-2025        125,000        125,313  
            2,511,167  
         

 

 

 
Professional Services: 0.14%

 

TransUnion (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       4-10-2023        596,985        595,558  
         

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors: 0.05%

 

Avolon TLB Borrower 1 LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.28       1-15-2025        199,500        198,868  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

26   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  

Information Technology: 2.57%

 

Communications Equipment: 0.07%

 

Ciena Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±‡

    4.28     9-26-2025      $ 275,000      $ 275,173  
         

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components: 0.55%

 

Dell Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.31       9-7-2023        2,249,487        2,246,113  
         

 

 

 
IT Services: 1.76%

 

Ancestry.com Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.55       10-19-2023        5,892,103        5,906,834  

Applied Systems Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +3.00%) ±

    5.39       9-19-2024        321,750        322,757  

Infor US Incorporated (3 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.14       2-1-2022        774,947        771,654  

Sophia Holding Finance LP (3 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.64       9-30-2022        143,552        143,731  

Zayo Group LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.55       1-19-2024        132,244        132,307  
            7,277,283  
         

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment: 0.08%

 

Micron Technology Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +1.75%) ±

    4.06       4-26-2022        342,125        342,053  
         

 

 

 
Software: 0.11%

 

SS&C Technologies Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.55       4-16-2025        470,971        468,353  
  

 

 

 

Materials: 0.95%

 

Containers & Packaging: 0.95%

 

Berry Plastics Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.28       10-1-2022        387,258        386,967  

Flex Acquisition Company Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +3.25%) ±

    5.51       6-29-2025        748,125        748,529  

Reynolds Group Holdings Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       2-5-2023            2,450,109        2,450,109  

RING Container Technologies (1 Month LIBOR +2.75%) ±

    5.05       10-31-2024        347,375        346,833  
            3,932,438  
         

 

 

 

Real Estate: 1.36%

 

Equity REITs: 0.84%

 

ESH Hospitality Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       8-30-2023        1,214,644        1,212,372  

MGM Growth Properties LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       3-21-2025        316,750        315,619  

The Geo Group Incorporated (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.31       3-22-2024        1,951,287        1,942,760  
            3,470,751  
         

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development: 0.52%

 

Capital Automotive LP (1 Month LIBOR +2.50%) ±

    4.81       3-24-2024        1,350,251        1,349,576  

Capital Automotive LP (1 Month LIBOR +6.00%) ±

    8.30       3-24-2025        767,818        778,376  
            2,127,952  
         

 

 

 

Utilities: 0.38%

 

Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers: 0.38%

 

TerraForm Power Operating LLC (1 Month LIBOR +2.00%) ±

    4.30       11-8-2022        669,938        669,938  

Vistra Energy Corporation (1 Month LIBOR +2.25%) ±

    4.55       12-14-2023        887,163        887,500  
            1,557,438  
         

 

 

 

Total Loans (Cost $89,362,046)

 

     88,230,398  
  

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     27  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  

Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities: 4.12%

 

American Money Management Corporation Series 2015-16A Class AR (3 Month LIBOR +1.26%) 144A±

    3.70     4-14-2029      $ 500,000      $ 500,290  

Argent Securities Incorporated Series 2004-W5 Class AV3B (1 Month LIBOR +0.90%) ±

    3.18       4-25-2034        49,233        49,238  

Banc of America Commercial Mortgage Securities Incorporated Series 2006-03 Class AM ±±

    5.66       7-10-2044        547,504        223,946  

Banc of America Commercial Mortgage Securities Incorporated Series 2007-1 Class AMFX ±±

    5.48       1-15-2049        140,618        141,018  

Banc of America Funding Corporation Series 2005 Class 5-1A1

    5.50       9-25-2035        189,846        199,383  

Banc of America Mortgage Securities Series 2003 Class 1A1 ±±

    4.08       4-25-2033        259,673        247,747  

Benchmark Mortgage Trust Series 2018-B1 Class A2

    3.57       1-15-2051        195,000        194,524  

Bluemountain CLO Limited Series 2015-2A Class A1R (3 Month LIBOR +0.93%) 144A±

    3.37       7-18-2027        500,000        498,875  

Centex Home Equity Series 2002-A Class AF6

    5.54       1-25-2032        24,659        24,862  

Centex Home Equity Series 2004-B Class AF6

    4.69       3-25-2034        88,872        90,939  

CIFC Funding Limited Series 2012-2RA Class A1 (3 Month LIBOR +0.80%) 144A±

    3.27       1-20-2028        485,000        481,590  

Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust Series 2012-GC8 Class C 144A±±

    4.87       9-10-2045            1,000,000        1,007,181  

Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust Series 2017-1500 Class A (1 Month LIBOR +0.85%) 144A±

    3.13       7-15-2032        750,000        749,708  

Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust Series 2017-MDRB Class A (1 Month LIBOR +1.10%) 144A±

    3.38       7-15-2030        647,950        645,248  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust Incorporated Series 2003-HE3 Class A3 (1 Month LIBOR +0.76%) ±

    3.04       12-25-2033        16,497        16,446  

Commercial Mortgage Trust Series 2012-CR2 Class C ±±

    4.83       8-15-2045        1,000,000        999,116  

Commercial Mortgage Trust Series 2012-LC4 Class A4

    3.29       12-10-2044        202,534        201,029  

Commercial Mortgage Trust Series 2012-LC4 Class AM

    4.06       12-10-2044        500,000        504,089  

Commercial Mortgage Trust Series 2012-LC4 Class C ±±

    5.60       12-10-2044        500,000        494,415  

Countrywide Home Loans Series 2003-48 Class 2A2 ±±

    4.55       10-25-2033        51,277        52,023  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Series 2002-AR25 Class 1A1 ±±

    3.72       9-25-2032        422,045        410,653  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Series 2003-AR15 Class 3A1 ±±

    4.18       6-25-2033        79,803        80,161  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Series 2003-AR9 Class 2A2 ±±

    4.21       3-25-2033        19,750        19,669  

Crown Point Limited Series 2015-3A Class A1AR (3 Month LIBOR +0.91%) 144A±

    3.35       12-31-2027        500,000        499,995  

Global Mortgage Securitization Limited Series 2004-A Class A2 (1 Month LIBOR +0.32%) 144A±

    2.60       11-25-2032        80,748        76,704  

GS Mortgage Securities Trust Series 2010-C1 Class X 144A±±(c)

    1.36       8-10-2043        5,025,459        94,548  

GS Mortgage Securities Trust Series 2012-GCJ7 Class XA ±±(c)

    2.21       5-10-2045        3,249,141        146,496  

GSAA Home Equity Trust Series 2004-5 Class AF5

    4.41       6-25-2034        1,439        1,437  

GSMPS Mortgage Loan Trust Series 2005-AHL Class M1 (1 Month LIBOR +0.65%) ±

    2.93       4-25-2035        2,714        2,717  

GSMPS Mortgage Loan Trust Series 2006-1 Class A1 (1 Month LIBOR +0.30%) 144A±

    2.58       3-25-2035        50,273        49,970  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust Series 2013-C17 Class B ±±

    4.89       1-15-2047        50,000        51,775  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust Series 2007-CB18 Class AM ±±

    5.47       6-12-2047        245,076        244,773  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust Series 2007-CB18 Class AMFL (1 Month LIBOR +0.17%) ±

    2.30       6-12-2047        210,066        206,311  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust Series 2007-LDPX Class AM ±±

    5.46       1-15-2049        81,112        81,151  

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust Series 2004-A3 Class 2A1 ±±

    4.45       7-25-2034        32,863        33,375  

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust Series 2004-A3 Class 3A3 ±±

    4.03       7-25-2034        40,258        39,699  

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust Series 2005-A3 Class 11A2 ±±

    4.42       6-25-2035        154,966        158,451  

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust Series 2009-7 Class 2A1 144A±±

    6.00       2-27-2037        2,136        2,132  

MASTR Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust Series 2003-6 Class 3A1 ±±

    3.63       12-25-2033        271,762        273,131  

MASTR Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust Series 2003-6 Class 4A2 ±±

    3.72       1-25-2034        8,148        8,087  

MASTR Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust Series 2004-13 Class 3A7 ±±

    4.45       11-21-2034        11,842        12,120  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

28   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  

Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities (continued)

 

MASTR Alternative Loans Trust Series 2005-1 Class 5A1

    5.50     1-25-2020      $ 6,790      $ 6,865  

MASTR Specialized Loan Trust Series 2005-3 Class A1 (1 Month LIBOR +0.36%) 144A±

    2.64       11-25-2035        103,915        103,702  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Trust Series 2005-A8 Class A1B3

    5.25       8-25-2036        1,377        1,375  

Mid-State Trust Series 11 Class A1

    4.86       7-15-2038        181,242        190,520  

MLCC Mortgage Investors Incorporated Series 2003-G Class A2 (6 Month LIBOR +0.68%) ±

    3.18       1-25-2029        67,086        67,023  

Montana Higher Education Student Assistance Corporation Series 2012-1 Class A2 (1 Month LIBOR +1.00%) ±

    3.28       5-20-2030        476,875        480,832  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust Series 2012-C5 Class XA 144A±±(c)

    1.47       8-15-2045        4,100,717        175,898  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust Series 2013-C11 Class A4 ±±

    4.16       8-15-2046        569,000        581,259  

Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust Series 2004-NC1 Class M1 (1 Month LIBOR +1.05%) ±

    3.33       12-27-2033        374,338        374,709  

Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust Series 2012-C4 Class C 144A±±

    5.42       3-15-2045        900,000        911,954  

Morgan Stanley Mortgage Loan Trust Series 2004-4 Class 2A ±±

    6.37       9-25-2034        36,005        39,256  

New Century Home Equity Loan Trust Series 2004-3 Class M1 (1 Month LIBOR +0.93%) ±

    3.21       11-25-2034            1,165,049        1,168,123  

Octagon Investment Partners Series 2015-1A Class A1R (3 Month LIBOR +0.90%) 144A±

    3.21       5-21-2027        700,000        699,768  

Provident Funding Mortgage Loan Series 2005-1 Class 2A1 ±±

    3.85       5-25-2035        15,123        14,866  

RAIT Trust Series 2017-FL8 Class A (1 Month LIBOR +0.85%) 144A±

    3.13       12-15-2037        266,542        266,402  

Sequoia Mortgage Trust Series 2003-1 Class 1A (1 Month LIBOR +0.76%) ±

    3.04       4-20-2033        10,221        10,030  

SoFi Professional Loan Program LLC Series 2017-A Class A2B 144A

    2.40       3-26-2040        750,000        724,740  

Stonemont Portfolio Trust Series 2017 Class A (1 Month LIBOR +0.85%) 144A±

    3.13       8-20-2030        462,257        461,972  

Structured Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan Trust Series 2004-2 Class 2A ±±

    4.32       3-25-2034        35,762        35,291  

Terwin Mortgage Trust Series 2003-6HE Class A3 (1 Month LIBOR +1.14%) ±

    3.42       11-25-2033        159,555        157,091  

Vendee Mortgage Trust Series 2003-2 Class IO ±±(c)

    0.68       5-15-2033        3,405,567        108,531  

Washington Mutual Mortgage Trust Series 2004-RA4 Class 3A

    7.50       7-25-2034        109,482        117,151  

Wind River CLO Limited Series 2013-2A Class BR (3 Month LIBOR +1.60%) 144A±

    4.04       10-18-2030        500,000        497,825  

Total Non-Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities (Cost $17,292,766)

 

     17,010,205  
  

 

 

 
          Expiration date      Shares         
Rights: 0.06%

 

Utilities: 0.06%

 

Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers: 0.06%

 

Vistra Energy Corporation †

      12-31-2046        327,375        238,984  
         

 

 

 

Total Rights (Cost $340,913)

 

     238,984  
  

 

 

 
          Maturity date      Principal         
Yankee Corporate Bonds and Notes: 9.23%

 

Communication Services: 0.32%

 

Media: 0.18%

 

WPP Finance 2010

    3.63       9-7-2022      $ 750,000        733,337  
         

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services: 0.14%

 

Globo Communicacoes Participacoes SA 144A

    4.88       4-11-2022        595,000        589,794  
         

 

 

 

Consumer Staples: 0.36%

 

Beverages: 0.18%

 

Pernod Ricard SA 144A

    4.45       1-15-2022        760,000        774,236  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     29  

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  
Tobacco: 0.18%

 

BAT International Finance plc 144A

    3.25     6-7-2022      $ 750,000      $ 733,633  
         

 

 

 

Energy: 1.93%

 

Energy Equipment & Services: 0.41%

 

Ensco plc

    5.75       10-1-2044        2,320,000        1,624,000  

Trinidad Drilling Limited 144A

    6.63       2-15-2025        75,000        75,000  
            1,699,000  
         

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 1.52%

 

Baytex Energy Corporation 144A

    5.13       6-1-2021            2,125,000        2,066,563  

Baytex Energy Corporation 144A

    5.63       6-1-2024        900,000        807,750  

Griffin Coal Mining Company Limited 144A(a)†

    9.50       12-1-2016        1,122,015        0  

Griffin Coal Mining Company Limited (a)†

    9.50       12-1-2016        91,731        0  

Rockpoint Gas Storage 144A

    7.00       3-31-2023        1,375,000        1,368,125  

Teekay Corporation

    8.50       1-15-2020        2,025,000        2,055,375  
            6,297,813  
         

 

 

 

Financials: 2.83%

 

Banks: 0.97%

 

ABN AMRO Bank NV 144A

    4.80       4-18-2026        750,000        746,445  

Banco del Estado de Chile 144A

    3.88       2-8-2022        650,000        645,586  

Corporación Andina de Fomento

    4.38       6-15-2022        958,000        980,772  

Intelsat Connect Finance Company 144A

    9.50       2-15-2023        400,000        384,500  

Nielsen Holding and Finance BV 144A

    5.00       2-1-2025        875,000        852,031  

Nielsen Holding and Finance BV 144A

    5.50       10-1-2021        415,000        417,075  

Preferred Term Securities XII Limited (a)†

    3.03       12-24-2033        635,000        0  
            4,026,409  
         

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services: 1.70%

 

Intelsat Jackson Holdings SA

    5.50       8-1-2023        5,275,000        4,721,125  

Intelsat Jackson Holdings SA 144A

    8.50       10-15-2024        1,700,000        1,670,250  

Tyco Electronics Group SA

    3.50       2-3-2022        625,000        623,614  
            7,014,989  
         

 

 

 
Insurance: 0.16%

 

Sompo International Holdings Limited

    7.00       7-15-2034        575,000        657,774  
         

 

 

 

Health Care: 1.51%

 

Pharmaceuticals: 1.51%

 

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    5.50       3-1-2023        2,200,000        2,084,500  

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    5.50       11-1-2025        375,000        367,500  

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    5.88       5-15-2023        770,000        736,313  

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    6.13       4-15-2025        1,940,000        1,784,218  

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    6.50       3-15-2022        325,000        336,375  

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    7.00       3-15-2024        575,000        602,134  

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    7.50       7-15-2021        9,000        9,135  

Bausch Health Companies Incorporated 144A

    8.50       1-31-2027        300,000        305,250  
            6,225,425  
         

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

30   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018

    

 

 

Security name   Interest rate     Maturity date      Principal      Value  

Industrials: 1.24%

 

Aerospace & Defense: 0.08%

 

Avolon Holdings Funding Limited 144A

    5.13     10-1-2023      $ 350,000      $ 343,438  
         

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies: 0.56%

 

Ritchie Brothers Auctioneers Incorporated 144A

    5.38       1-15-2025        2,350,000        2,314,751  
         

 

 

 
Machinery: 0.26%

 

Sensata Technologies BV 144A

    5.00       10-1-2025        260,000        250,900  

Sensata Technologies BV 144A

    6.25       2-15-2026        800,000        814,000  
            1,064,900  
         

 

 

 
Professional Services: 0.15%

 

IHS Markit Limited 144A

    4.75       2-15-2025        650,000        643,487  
         

 

 

 
Road & Rail: 0.19%

 

Canadian Pacific Railway Company

    4.50       1-15-2022        750,000        770,806  
         

 

 

 

Materials: 0.88%

 

Containers & Packaging: 0.51%

 

Ardagh Packaging Finance plc 144A

    4.25       9-15-2022        375,000        363,750  

Ardagh Packaging Finance plc 144A

    7.25       5-15-2024        725,000        728,625  

OI European Group BV 144A

    4.00       3-15-2023            1,100,000        1,029,875  
            2,122,250  
         

 

 

 
Metals & Mining: 0.37%

 

Glencore Finance Canada Limited 144A

    4.25       10-25-2022        750,000        751,695  

Vale Overseas Limited

    4.38       1-11-2022        750,000        754,200  
            1,505,895  
         

 

 

 

Utilities: 0.16%

 

Electric Utilities: 0.16%

 

Comision Federal de Electricidad 144A

    4.88       5-26-2021        650,000        651,307  
         

 

 

 

Total Yankee Corporate Bonds and Notes (Cost $39,667,426)

 

     38,169,244  
  

 

 

 
    Yield                                       Shares         
Short-Term Investments: 2.03%          
Investment Companies: 2.03%          

Wells Fargo Government Money Market Fund Select Class (l)(u)##

    2.07          8,394,594        8,394,594  
         

 

 

 

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $8,394,594)

            8,394,594        
         

 

 

 

 

Total investments in securities (Cost $618,207,566)     145.07        599,592,258  

Other assets and liabilities, net

    (45.07        (186,275,276
 

 

 

      

 

 

 
Total net assets     100.00      $ 413,316,982  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Portfolio of investments—October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     31  

    

 

 

±

Variable rate investment. The rate shown is the rate in effect at period end.

 

144A

The security may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers, pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933.

 

±±

The coupon of the security is adjusted based on the principal and interest payments received from the underlying pool of mortgages as well as the credit quality and the actual prepayment speed of the underlying mortgages.

 

(c)

Investment in an interest-only security entitles holders to receive only the interest payments on the underlying mortgages. The principal amount shown is the notional amount of the underlying mortgages. The rate represents the coupon rate.

 

¥

A payment-in-kind (PIK) security is a security in which the issuer may make interest or dividend payments in cash or additional securities. These additional securities generally have the same terms as the original holdings.

 

(a)

The security is fair valued in accordance with procedures approved by the Board of Trustees.

 

@

Foreign bond principal is denominated in the local currency of the issuer.

 

Non-income-earning security

 

Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs.

 

<

All or a portion of the position represents an unfunded loan commitment. The rate represents current interest rate if the loan is partially funded.

 

%%

The security is issued on a when-issued basis.

 

(l)

The issuer of the security is an affiliated person of the Fund as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940.

 

(u)

The rate represents the 7-day annualized yield at period end.

 

##

All or a portion of this security is segregated for when-issued and/or unfunded loans.

Abbreviations:

 

AUD

Australian dollar

BRL

Brazilian real

CLO

Collateralized loan obligation

COP

Colombian peso

FHLMC

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation

FNMA

Federal National Mortgage Association

GBP

Great British pound

GNMA

Government National Mortgage Association

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

INR

Indian rupee

LIBOR

London Interbank Offered Rate

MXN

Mexican peso

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

NZD

New Zealand dollar

PEN

Peruvian sol

REIT

Real estate investment trust

ZAR

South African rand

Investments in Affiliates

An affiliated investment is an investment in which the Fund owns at least 5% of the outstanding voting shares of the issuer or as a result of other relationships, such as the Fund and the issuer having the same investment manager. Transactions with issuers that were either affiliated persons of the Fund at the beginning of the period or the end of the period were as follows:

 

    Shares,
beginning of
period
    Shares
purchased
    Shares
sold
    Shares,
end of
period
    Net
realized
gains
(losses)
    Net
change in
unrealized
gains
(losses)
    Income
from
affiliated
securities
    Value,
end
of period
    % of
net
assets
 

Short-Term Investments

                 

Investment Companies

                 

Wells Fargo Government Money Market Fund Select Class

    25,651,250       131,908,826       149,165,482       8,394,594     $ 0     $ 0     $ 239,076     $ 8,394,594       2.03

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

32   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Statement of assets and liabilities—October 31, 2018
         

Assets

 

Investments in unaffiliated securities, at value (cost $609,812,972)

  $ 591,197,664  

Investments in affiliated securities, at value (cost $8,394,594)

    8,394,594  

Cash

    23,219  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $34,408)

    34,057  

Receivable for investments sold

    848,052  

Principal paydown receivable

    41,828  

Receivable for interest

    8,009,737  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    14,614  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    608,563,765  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

Secured borrowing payable

    187,000,000  

Dividends payable

    3,363,570  

Payable for investments purchased

    2,879,559  

Payable for Fund shares repurchased

    355,871  

Advisory fee payable

    284,614  

Administration fee payable

    25,874  

Trustees’ fees and expenses payable

    839  

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    1,336,456  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    195,246,783  
 

 

 

 

Total net assets

  $ 413,316,982  
 

 

 

 

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF

 

Paid-in capital

  $ 465,152,172  

Total distributable loss

    (51,835,190
 

 

 

 

Total net assets

  $ 413,316,982  
 

 

 

 

NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE

 

Based on $413,316,982 divided by 31,542,501 shares issued and outstanding (100,000,000 shares authorized)

    $13.10  
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Statement of operations—year ended October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     33  
         

Investment income

 

Interest (net of foreign interest withholding taxes of $398,685)

  $ 37,771,287  

Income from affiliated securities

    239,076  

Dividends

    35  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    38,010,398  
 

 

 

 

Expenses

 

Advisory fee

    3,561,241  

Administration fee

    323,749  

Custody and accounting fees

    283,924  

Professional fees

    467,175  

Shareholder report expenses

    157,776  

Trustees’ fees and expenses

    26,497  

Transfer agent fees

    40,515  

Interest expense

    4,949,712  

Other fees and expenses

    29,849  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    9,840,438  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    28,169,960  
 

 

 

 

REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS

 

Net realized losses on:

 

Unaffiliated securities

    (12,224,596

Foreign currency transactions

    (772,768
 

 

 

 

Net realized losses on investments

    (12,997,364
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on:

 

Unaffiliated securities

    (15,415,919

Foreign currency transactions

    7,368  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments

    (15,408,551
 

 

 

 

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments

    (28,405,915
 

 

 

 

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (235,955
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

34   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Statement of changes in net assets
     Year ended
October 31, 2018
       Year ended
October 31, 20171
 

Operations

      

Net investment income

  $ 28,169,960        $ 36,933,415  

Net realized losses on investments

    (12,997,364        (21,012,373

Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments

    (15,408,551        27,791,101  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (235,955        43,712,143  
 

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders from

 

Net investment income and net realized gains

    (15,295,803        (26,702,083

Tax basis return of capital

    (27,375,294        (19,927,206
 

 

 

 

Total distributions to shareholders

    (42,671,097        (46,629,289
 

 

 

 

Capital share transactions

 

Cost of shares repurchased

    (43,599,996        (88,098,943
 

 

 

 

Total decrease in net assets

    (86,507,048        (91,016,089
 

 

 

 

Net assets

 

Beginning of period

    499,824,030          590,840,119  
 

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 413,316,982        $ 499,824,030  
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 

Effective for all filings after November 4, 2018, the SEC prospectively eliminated the requirement to parenthetically disclose undistributed net investment income at the end of the period and permitted the aggregation of distributions, with the exception of tax basis returns of capital. Overdistributed net investment income at October 31, 2017 was $3,872,518. The disaggregated distributions information for the year ended October 31, 2017 is included in Note 8, Distributions to Shareholders, in the notes to the financial statements.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Statement of cash flows—year ended October 31, 2018   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     35  
         

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (235,955

Adjustments to reconcile net decrease in net assets from operations to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

Purchase of long-term securities

    (189,460,761

Proceeds from the sale of long-term securities

    223,010,560  

Paydowns

    4,932,788  

Amortization

    (603,368

Purchases and sales of short-term securities, net

    17,256,656  

Decrease in receivable for investments sold

    881,628  

Decrease in principal paydown receivable

    11,562  

Decrease in receivable for interest

    517,400  

Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets

    108  

Increase in payable for investments purchased

    940,675  

Decrease in advisory fee payable

    (37,754

Decrease in administration fee payable

    (3,432

Decrease in trustees’ fees and expenses payable

    (1,915

Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities

    746,205  

Litigation payments received

    36,851  

Net realized losses on investments

    12,224,596  

Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments

    15,408,551  
 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

    85,624,395  
 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

Cost of shares repurchased

    (43,244,125

Cash distributions paid

    (43,066,688
 

 

 

 

Net cash used in financing activities

    (86,310,813
 

 

 

 

Net decrease in cash

    (686,418
 

 

 

 

Cash (including foreign currency):

 

Beginning of period

  $ 743,694  
 

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 57,276  
 

 

 

 

Supplemental cash disclosure

 

Cash paid for interest

  $ 4,865,382  
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

36   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Financial highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout each period)

 

    Year ended October 31  
     2018     2017     2016     2015     2014  

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $14.31       $14.35       $14.06       $16.10       $16.40  

Net investment income

    0.85 1       0.97 1       1.08       1.10 1       1.14 1  

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments

    (0.92     0.18       0.33       (1.98     (0.24
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (0.07     1.15       1.41       (0.88     0.90  

Distributions to shareholders from

         

Net investment income

    (0.46     (0.70     (0.97     (0.87     (0.91

Tax basis return of capital

    (0.83     (0.53     (0.17     (0.29     (0.29
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total distributions to shareholders

    (1.29     (1.23     (1.14     (1.16     (1.20

Anti-dilutive effect of shares repurchased

    0.15       0.04       0.02       0.00       0.00  

Net asset value, end of period

    $13.10       $14.31       $14.35       $14.06       $16.10  

Market value, end of period

    $11.57       $13.05       $12.66       $12.02       $14.19  

Total return based on market value2

    (1.91 )%      13.07     15.66     (7.34 )%      6.55

Ratios to average net assets (annualized)

         

Expenses3

    2.14     1.68     1.39     1.24     1.21

Net investment income3

    6.12     6.73     7.94     7.33     6.95

Supplemental data

         

Portfolio turnover rate

    25     38     29     31     41

Net assets, end of period (000s omitted)

    $413,317       $499,824       $590,840       $591,226       $677,004  

Borrowings outstanding, end of period (000s omitted)

    $187,000       $187,000       $220,000       $230,000       $230,000  

Asset coverage per $1,000 of borrowing, end of period

    $3,210       $3,673       $3,686       $3,570       $3,944  

 

 

 

1 

Calculated based upon average shares outstanding

 

2 

Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock on the first day and sale on the last day of the period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of these calculations to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund’s Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan. Total return does not reflect brokerage commissions that a shareholder would pay on the purchase and sale of shares.

 

3 

Ratios include interest expense relating to interest associated with borrowings and/or leverage transactions as follows:

 

Year ended October 31, 2018

    1.07

Year ended October 31, 2017

    0.61

Year ended October 31, 2016

    0.44

Year ended October 31, 2015

    0.24

Year ended October 31, 2014

    0.07

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Notes to financial statements   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     37  

1. ORGANIZATION

Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund (the “Fund”) was organized as a statutory trust under the laws of the state of Delaware on April 10, 2003 and is registered as a diversified closed-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). As an investment company, the Fund follows the accounting and reporting guidance in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946, Financial Services – Investment Companies.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The following significant accounting policies, which are consistently followed in the preparation of the financial statements of the Fund, are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles which require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Securities valuation

All investments are valued each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (generally 4 p.m. Eastern Time), although the Fund may deviate from this calculation time under unusual or unexpected circumstances.

Debt securities are valued at the evaluated bid price provided by an independent pricing service (e.g. taking into account various factors, including yields, maturities, or credit ratings) or, if a reliable price is not available, the quoted bid price from an independent broker-dealer.

Equity securities that are listed on a foreign or domestic exchange or market are valued at the official closing price or, if none, the last sales price. If no sale occurs on the principal exchange or market that day, a fair value price will be determined in accordance with the Fund’s Valuation Procedures.

The values of securities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at rates provided by an independent foreign currency pricing source at a time each business day specified by the Wells Fargo Asset Management Pricing Committee at Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC (“Funds Management”).

Investments in registered open-end investment companies are valued at net asset value.

Investments which are not valued using any of the methods discussed above are valued at their fair value, as determined in good faith by the Board of Trustees of the Fund. The Board of Trustees has established a Valuation Committee comprised of the Trustees and has delegated to it the authority to take any actions regarding the valuation of portfolio securities that the Valuation Committee deems necessary or appropriate, including determining the fair value of portfolio securities, unless the determination has been delegated to the Wells Fargo Asset Management Pricing Committee. The Board of Trustees retains the authority to make or ratify any valuation decisions or approve any changes to the Valuation Procedures as it deems appropriate. On a quarterly basis, the Board of Trustees receives reports on any valuation actions taken by the Valuation Committee or the Wells Fargo Asset Management Pricing Committee which may include items for ratification.

Foreign currency translation

The accounting records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. The values of other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at rates provided by an independent foreign currency pricing source at a time each business day specified by the Wells Fargo Asset Management Pricing Committee. Purchases and sales of securities, and income and expenses are converted at the rate of exchange on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized foreign exchange gains or losses arise from sales of foreign currencies, currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on securities transactions, and the difference between the amounts of dividends, interest and foreign withholding taxes recorded and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually paid or received. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in the fair value of assets and liabilities other than investments in securities resulting from changes in exchange rates. The changes in net assets arising from changes in exchange rates of securities and the changes in net assets resulting from changes in market prices of securities are not separately presented. Such changes are included in net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

When-issued transactions

The Fund may purchase securities on a forward commitment or when-issued basis. The Fund records a when-issued transaction on the trade date and will segregate assets in an amount at least equal in value to the Fund’s commitment to purchase when-issued securities. Securities purchased on a when-issued basis are marked-to-market daily and the Fund begins earning interest on the settlement date. Losses may arise due to changes in the market value of the underlying securities or if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.


Table of Contents

 

38   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Notes to financial statements

Loans

The Fund may invest in direct debt instruments which are interests in amounts owed to lenders by corporate or other borrowers. The loans pay interest at rates which are periodically reset by reference to a base lending rate plus a spread. Investments in loans may be in the form of participations in loans or assignments of all or a portion of loans from third parties. When the Fund purchases participations, it generally has no rights to enforce compliance with terms of the loan agreement with the borrower. As a result, the Fund assumes the credit risk of both the borrower and the lender that is selling the participation. When the Fund purchases assignments from lenders, it acquires direct rights against the borrower on the loan and may enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement. Loans may include fully funded term loans or unfunded loan commitments, which are contractual obligations for future funding.

Security transactions and income recognition

Securities transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. Realized gains or losses are recorded on the basis of identified cost.

Interest income is accrued daily and bond discounts are accreted and premiums are amortized daily. To the extent debt obligations are placed on non-accrual status, any related interest income may be reduced by writing off interest receivables when the collection of all or a portion of interest has been determined to be doubtful based on consistently applied procedures and the fair value has decreased. If the issuer subsequently resumes interest payments or when the collectability of interest is reasonably assured, the debt obligation is removed from non-accrual status.

Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date.

Income from foreign securities is recorded net of foreign taxes withheld where recovery of such taxes is not assured.

Distributions to shareholders

Under a monthly distribution plan, the Fund pays distributions to shareholders at an annual minimum fixed rate of 9% based on the Fund’s average monthly net asset value per share over the prior 12 months. The monthly distributions may be sourced from income, paid-in capital, and/or capital gains, if any. To the extent that sufficient investment income is not available on a monthly basis, the Fund may distribute paid-in capital and/ or capital gains, if any, in order to maintain its managed distribution level.

Distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Such distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations and may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Dividend sources are estimated at the time of declaration. The tax character of distributions is determined as of the Fund’s fiscal year end. Therefore, a portion of the Fund’s distributions made prior to the Fund’s fiscal year end may be categorized as a tax return of capital at year end.

Federal and other taxes

The Fund intends to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company by distributing substantially all of its investment company taxable income and any net realized capital gains (after reduction for capital loss carryforwards) sufficient to relieve it from all, or substantially all, federal income taxes. Accordingly, no provision for federal income taxes was required.

The Fund’s income and federal excise tax returns and all financial records supporting those returns for the prior three fiscal years are subject to examination by the federal and Delaware revenue authorities. Management has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal, state, and foreign tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability.

As of October 31, 2018, the aggregate cost of all investments for federal income tax purposes was $621,575,109 and the unrealized gains (losses) consisted of:

 

Gross unrealized gains

   $ 12,364,169  

Gross unrealized losses

     (34,347,020

Net unrealized losses

   $ (21,982,851

As of October 31, 2018, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards which consist of $11,604,833 in short-term capital losses and $14,769,863 in long-term capital losses.

3. FAIR VALUATION MEASUREMENTS

Fair value measurements of investments are determined within a framework that has established a fair value hierarchy based upon the various data inputs utilized in determining the value of the Fund’s investments. The three-level hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to


Table of Contents

 

Notes to financial statements   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     39  

unobservable inputs (Level 3). The Fund’s investments are classified within the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The inputs are summarized into three broad levels as follows:

 

 

Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical securities

 

 

Level 2 – other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.)

 

 

Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments)

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing investments in securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

The following is a summary of the inputs used in valuing the Fund’s assets and liabilities as of October 31, 2018:

 

     Quoted prices
(Level 1)
     Other significant
observable inputs
(Level 2)
     Significant
unobservable inputs
(Level 3)
     Total  

Assets

           

Investments in:

           

Agency securities

   $ 0      $ 7,140,147      $ 0      $ 7,140,147  

Asset-backed securities

     0        3,505,043        0        3,505,043  

Common stocks

           

Materials

     803        0        0        803  

Corporate bonds and notes

     0        331,312,248        0        331,312,248  

Foreign corporate bonds and notes

     0        19,373,032        0        19,373,032  

Foreign government bonds

     0        86,217,560        0        86,217,560  

Loans

     0        73,616,607        14,613,791        88,230,398  

Non-agency mortgage-backed securities

     0        17,010,205        0        17,010,205  

Rights

           

Utilities

     0        238,984        0        238,984  

Yankee corporate bonds and notes

     0        38,169,244        0        38,169,244  

Short-term investments

           

Investment companies

     8,394,594        0        0        8,394,594  

Total assets

   $ 8,395,397      $ 576,583,070      $ 14,613,791      $ 599,592,258  

Additional sector, industry or geographic detail is included in the Portfolio of Investments.

At October 31, 2018, the Fund did not have any transfers into/out of Level 3.

The following is a reconciliation of assets in which significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) were used in determining fair value:

 

     Asset-
backed
securities
     Loans     

Yankee
corporate

bonds and
notes

     Total  

Balance as of October 31, 2017

   $ 700,000      $ 20,926,735      $ 7,293      $ 21,634,028  

Accrued discounts (premiums)

     0        17,784        0        17,784  

Realized gains (losses)

     0        (48,925      0        (48,925

Change in unrealized gains (losses)

     (232      (452,502      602,164        149,430  

Purchases

     0        4,022,507        0        4,022,507  

Sales

     0        (9,161,978      (609,457      (9,771,435

Transfers into Level 3

     0        4,824,575        0        4,824,575  

Transfers out of Level 3

     (699,768      (5,514,405      0        (6,214,173

Balance as of October 31, 2018

   $ 0      $ 14,613,791      $ 0      $ 14,613,791  

Change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to securities still held at October 31, 2018

   $ 0      $ (17,732    $ 0      $ (17,732


Table of Contents

 

40   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Notes to financial statements

The loan obligations in the Level 3 table were valued using indicative broker quotes. These indicative broker quotes are considered Level 3 inputs. Quantitative unobservable inputs used by the brokers are often proprietary and not provided to the Fund and therefore the disclosure that would address these inputs is not included above.

4. TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES

Advisory fee

Funds Management, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo & Company (“Wells Fargo”) is the adviser to the Fund and is entitled to receive a fee at an annual rate of 0.55% of the Fund’s average daily total assets. Total assets consist of net assets of the Fund plus borrowings or other leverage for investment purposes to the extent excluded in calculating net assets.

Funds Management has retained the services of certain subadvisers to provide daily portfolio management to the Fund. The fees for subadvisory services are borne by Funds Management. Wells Capital Management Incorporated, an affiliate of Funds Management and an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo, is a subadviser to the Fund and is entitled to receive a fee from Funds Management at an annual rate of 0.30% of the Fund’s average daily total assets. Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC (formerly, First International Advisors, LLC), an affiliate of Funds Management and an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo, is also a subadviser to the Fund and is entitled to receive a fee from Funds Management at an annual rate of 0.10% of the Fund’s average daily total assets.

Administration fee

Funds Management also serves as the administrator to the Fund, providing the Fund with a wide range of administrative services necessary to the operation of the Fund. Funds Management is entitled to receive an annual administration fee from the Fund equal to 0.05% of the Fund’s average daily total assets.

Interfund transactions

The Fund may purchase or sell portfolio investment securities to certain other Wells Fargo affiliates pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act and under procedures adopted by the Board of Trustees. The procedures have been designed to ensure that these interfund transactions, which do not incur broker commissions, are effected at current market prices. Pursuant to these procedures, the Fund had $11,423,494 in interfund purchases during the year ended October 31, 2018.

5. CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

The Fund has authorized capital of 100,000,000 shares with no par value. For the year ended October 31, 2018 and the year ended October 31, 2017, the Fund did not issue any shares.

On November 10, 2017, the Fund announced the reinstatement of its open-market share repurchase program (the “Buyback Program”). Under the Buyback Program, the Fund may repurchase up to 10% of its outstanding shares in open market transactions during the period beginning on January 1, 2018 and ending on December 31, 2018. The Fund’s Board of Trustees had delegated to Funds Management discretion to administer the Buyback Program including the determination of the amount and timing of repurchases in accordance with the best interests of the Fund and subject to applicable legal limitations. During the year ended October 31, 2018, the Fund purchased 3,397,183 of its shares on

the open market at a total cost of $43,599,996 (weighted average price per share of $12.83). The weighted average discount of these repurchased shares was 12.14%.

6. BORROWINGS

The Fund has borrowed $187,000,000 through a revolving credit facility administered by a major financial institution (the “Facility”). The Facility has a commitment amount of $230,000,000 with no specific contract expiration date but the Facility can be terminated upon 180 days’ notice. The Fund is charged interest at London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 0.70% and a commitment fee of 0.30% of the average daily unutilized amount of the commitment which may be waived if the amount drawn on the Facility is over 75% of the committed amount. The financial institution holds a security interest in all the assets of the Fund as collateral for the borrowing.

During the year ended October 31, 2018, the Fund had average borrowings outstanding of $187,000,000 at an average interest rate of 2.65% and paid interest in the amount of $4,949,712, which represents 1.07% of its average daily net assets. Based on the nature of the terms of the Facility and comparative market rates, the carrying amount of the borrowings at October 31, 2018 approximates its fair value. If measured at fair value, the borrowings would be categorized as a Level 2 under the fair value hierarchy.

 


Table of Contents

 

Notes to financial statements   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     41  

7. INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS

Purchases and sales of investments, excluding U.S. government obligations (if any) and short-term securities, for the year ended October 31, 2018 were $156,261,733 and $165,710,009, respectively.

As of October 31, 2018, the Fund had unfunded term loan commitments of $2,833,116.

8. DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended October 31, 2018 and October 31, 2017 were as follows:

 

     Year ended October 31  
     2018      2017  

Ordinary income

   $ 15,295,803      $ 26,702,083  

Tax basis return of capital

     27,375,294        19,927,206  

As of October 31, 2018 the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Unrealized

losses

  

Capital loss

carryforward

$(22,043,108)    $(26,374,696)

Effective for all filings after November 4, 2018, the Securities and Exchange Commission eliminated the requirement to separately state the components of distributions to shareholders. Distributions to shareholders for the year ended October 31, 2017 consisted of $26,702,083 from net investment income.

9. INDEMNIFICATION

Under the Fund’s organizational documents, the officers and Trustees have been granted certain indemnification rights against certain liabilities that may arise out of performance of their duties to the Fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts with service providers that contain a variety of indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on future claims that may be made against the Fund and, therefore, cannot be estimated.

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820) Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. ASU 2018-13 updates the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements by modifying or removing certain disclosures and adding certain new disclosures. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. Management has adopted the removal and modification of disclosures early, as permitted, and will adopt the additional new disclosures at the effective date.

In March 2017, FASB issued ASU No. 2017-08, Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities. ASU 2017-08 shortens the amortization period for certain callable debt securities held at a premium. The amendments require the premium to be amortized to the earliest call date. The amendments do not require an accounting change for securities held at a discount; the discount continues to be amortized to maturity. ASU 2017-08 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and for interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the potential impact of this new guidance to the financial statements.

In November 2016, FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Restricted Cash (a Consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force), which requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Amounts described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with the cash and cash equivalents in reconciling the beginning and end of period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. Management has evaluated the impact of adopting this ASU and determined that it will not result in any material changes to presentation of amounts in the financial statements. This ASU is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.

In August 2016, FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (a Consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force), which is intended to reduce diversity in practice in how certain transactions are classified in


Table of Contents

 

42   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Notes to financial statements

the statement of cash flows. Management has evaluated the impact of adopting this ASU and determined that it will not result in any material changes to presentation of amounts in the financial statements. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those financial years, with early adoption permitted.

11. SUBSEQUENT DISTRIBUTIONS

The Fund declared the following distributions to common shareholders:

 

Declaration date    Record date    Payable date    Per share amount
October 26, 2018    November 14, 2018    December 3, 2018    $0.10489
November 9, 2018    December 17, 2018    January 2, 2019      0.10420

These distributions are not reflected in the accompanying financial statements.


Table of Contents

 

Report of independent registered public accounting firm   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     43  

BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND SHAREHOLDERS OF WELLS FARGO MULTI-SECTOR INCOME FUND:

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund (the “Fund”), including the portfolio of investments, as of October 31, 2018, the related statements of operations and cash flows for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the years in the two-year period then ended, and the related notes (collectively, the “financial statements”) and the financial highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then ended. In our opinion, the financial statements and financial highlights present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of October 31, 2018, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the years in the two-year period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements and financial highlights are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial highlights based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements and financial highlights, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements and financial highlights. Such procedures also included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers, or by other appropriate auditing procedures. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements and financial highlights. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

LOGO

We have not been able to determine the specific year that we began serving as the auditor of one or more Wells Fargo Funds investment companies, however we are aware that we have served as the auditor of one or more Wells Fargo Funds investment companies since at least 1955.

Boston, Massachusetts

December 21, 2018


Table of Contents

 

44   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Other information (unaudited)

TAX INFORMATION

For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2018, $15,691,394 has been designated as interest-related dividends for nonresident alien shareholders pursuant to Section 871 of the Internal Revenue Code.

PROXY VOTING INFORMATION

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available, upon request, by calling 1-800-222-8222, visiting our website at wellsfargofunds.com, or visiting the SEC website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the Fund’s website at wellsfargofunds.com or by visiting the SEC website at sec.gov.

PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS INFORMATION

The complete portfolio holdings for the Fund are publicly available monthly on the Fund’s website (wellsfargofunds.com), on a one-month delayed basis. The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q, which is available by visiting the SEC website at sec.gov. In addition, the Fund’s Form N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC, and at regional offices in New York City, at 233 Broadway, and in Chicago, at 175 West Jackson Boulevard, Suite 900. Information about the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.


Table of Contents

 

Other information (unaudited)   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     45  

BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS

The following table provides basic information about the Board of Trustees (the “Trustees”) and Officers of the Fund. Each of the Trustees and Officers1 listed below acts in identical capacities for each fund in the Wells Fargo family of funds, which consists of 152 mutual funds comprising the Wells Fargo Funds Trust, Wells Fargo Variable Trust, Wells Fargo Master Trust, and four closed-end funds, including the Fund (collectively the “Fund Complex”). The mailing address of each Trustee and Officer is 525 Market Street, 12th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105. The Board of Trustees is classified into three classes of which one is elected annually. Each Trustee serves a three-year term concurrent with the class from which the Trustee is elected. Each Officer serves an indefinite term.

Independent Trustees

 

Name and
year of birth
  Position held and
length of service
  Principal occupations during past five years or longer   Current other
public company or
investment company
directorships
Class I - Non-Interested Trustees to serve until 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Isaiah Harris, Jr.2

(Born 1952)

  Trustee, since 2010   Retired. Chairman of the Board of CIGNA Corporation since 2009, and Director since 2005. From 2003 to 2011, Director of Deluxe Corporation. Prior thereto, President and CEO of BellSouth Advertising and Publishing Corp. from 2005 to 2007, President and CEO of BellSouth Enterprises from 2004 to 2005 and President of BellSouth Consumer Services from 2000 to 2003. Emeritus member of the Iowa State University Foundation Board of Governors. Emeritus Member of the Advisory Board of Iowa State University School of Business. Advisory Board Member, Palm Harbor Academy (private school). Advisory Board Member, Child Evangelism Fellowship (non-profit). Mr. Harris is a certified public accountant (inactive status).   CIGNA Corporation

David F. Larcker

(Born 1950)

  Trustee, since 2010   James Irvin Miller Professor of Accounting at the Graduate School of Business, Stanford University, Director of the Corporate Governance Research Initiative and Senior Faculty of The Rock Center for Corporate Governance since 2006. From 2005 to 2008, Professor of Accounting at the Graduate School of Business, Stanford University. Prior thereto, Ernst & Young Professor of Accounting at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania from 1985 to 2005.   N/A

Olivia S. Mitchell

(Born 1953)

  Trustee, since 2010, Nominating and Governance Committee Chairman, since 2018   International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans Professor, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania since 1993. Director of Wharton’s Pension Research Council and Boettner Center on Pensions & Retirement Research, and Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research. Previously, Cornell University Professor from 1978 to 1993.   N/A
Class II - Non-Interested Trustees to serve until 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

William R. Ebsworth

(Born 1957)

  Trustee, since 2015   Retired. From 1984 to 2013, equities analyst, portfolio manager, research director and chief investment officer at Fidelity Management and Research Company in Boston, Tokyo, and Hong Kong, and retired in 2013 as Chief Investment Officer of Fidelity Strategic Advisers, Inc. where he led a team of investment professionals managing client assets. Prior thereto, Board member of Hong Kong Securities Clearing Co., Hong Kong Options Clearing Corp., the Thailand International Fund, Ltd., Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company, and Empire Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company. Board member of the Vincent Memorial Hospital Endowment (non-profit organization), where he serves on the Investment Committee and as a Chair of the Audit Committee. Mr. Ebsworth is a CFA® charterholder.   N/A

Jane A. Freeman

(Born 1953)

 

Trustee, since 2015; Chair Liaison,

since 2018

  Retired. From 2012 to 2014 and 1999 to 2008, Chief Financial Officer of Scientific Learning Corporation. From 2008 to 2012, Ms. Freeman provided consulting services related to strategic business projects. Prior to 1999, Portfolio Manager at Rockefeller & Co. and Scudder, Stevens & Clark. Board member of the Harding Loevner Funds from 1996 to 2014, serving as both Lead Independent Director and chair of the Audit Committee. Board member of the Russell Exchange Traded Funds Trust from 2011 to 2012 and the chair of the Audit Committee. Ms. Freeman is a Board Member of The Ruth Bancroft Garden (non-profit organization). She is also an inactive Chartered Financial Analyst.   N/A


Table of Contents

 

46   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Other information (unaudited)
Name and
year of birth
  Position held and
length of service
  Principal occupations during past five years or longer   Current other
public company or
investment company
directorships

Judith M. Johnson2

(Born 1949)

  Trustee, since 2010; Audit Committee Chairman, since 2010   Retired. Prior thereto, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer of Minneapolis Employees Retirement Fund from 1996 to 2008. Ms. Johnson is an attorney, certified public accountant and a certified managerial accountant.   N/A
Class III - Non-Interested Trustees to serve until 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Timothy J. Penny

(Born 1951)

  Trustee, since 2010; Chairman, since 2018: Vice Chairman, from 2017 to 2018   President and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, a non-profit organization, since 2007. Member of the Board of Trustees of NorthStar Education Finance, Inc., a non-profit organization, since 2007.   N/A

James G. Polisson

(Born 1959)

  Trustee, since 2018; Advisory Board Member, from 2017 to 2018   Retired. Chief Marketing Officer, Source (ETF) UK Services, Ltd, from 2015 to 2017. From 2012 to 2015, Principal of The Polisson Group, LLC, a management consulting, corporate advisory and principal investing company. Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director at Russell Investments, Global Exchange Traded Funds from 2010 to 2012. Managing Director of Barclays Global Investors from 1998 to 2010 and Global Chief Marketing Officer for iShares and Barclays Global Investors from 2000 to 2010. Trustee of the San Francisco Mechanics’ Institute, a non-profit organization, from 2013 to 2015. Board member of the Russell Exchange Traded Fund Trust from 2011 to 2012. Director of Barclays Global Investors Holdings Deutschland GmbH from 2006 to 2009. Mr. Polisson is an attorney and has a retired status with the Massachusetts and District of Columbia Bar Associations.   N/A

Michael S. Scofield3

(Born 1943)

  Trustee, since 2003   Served on the Investment Company Institute’s Board of Governors and Executive Committee from 2008-2011 as well the Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council from 2006-2011 and the Independent Directors Council Executive Committee from 2008-2011. Trustee of the Evergreen Fund complex (and its predecessors) from 1984 to 2010. Chairman of the Evergreen Funds from 2000-2010. Former Trustee of the Mentor Funds. Retired Attorney, Law Offices of Michael S. Scofield.   N/A

Pamela Wheelock

(Born 1959)

  Trustee, since 2018; Advisory Board Member, from 2017 to 2018   Chief Operating Officer, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, since January, 2017. Vice President of University Services, University of Minnesota from 2012 to 2017. Prior thereto, on the Board of Directors, Governance Committee and Finance Committee for the Minnesota Philanthropy Partners (Saint Paul Foundation) from 2012 to 2018, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota from 2010 to 2011, Chairman of the Board from 2009 to 2011 and Board Director from 2003 to 2015. Vice President, Leadership and Community Engagement, Bush Foundation, Saint Paul, Minnesota (a private foundation) from 2009 to 2011. Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Minnesota Sports and Entertainment from 2004 to 2009 and Senior Vice President from 2002 to 2004. Commissioner of Finance, State of Minnesota, from 1999 to 2002. Currently the Board Chair of the Minnesota Wild Foundation since 2010.   N/A


Table of Contents

 

Other information (unaudited)   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     47  

Officers

 

Name and
year of birth
  Position held and
length of service
  Principal occupations during past five years or longer    

Andrew Owen

(Born 1960)

  President, since 2017   Executive Vice President of Wells Fargo & Company and Head of Affiliated Managers, Wells Fargo Asset Management, since 2014. In addition, Mr. Owen is currently President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2017. Prior thereto, Executive Vice President responsible for marketing, investments and product development for Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC, from 2009 to 2014.    

Jeremy DePalma1

(Born 1974)

  Treasurer, since 2012   Senior Vice President of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2009. Senior Vice President of Evergreen Investment Management Company, LLC from 2008 to 2010 and head of the Fund Reporting and Control Team within Fund Administration from 2005 to 2010.    

Alexander Kymn

(Born 1973)

  Secretary, since 2018; Chief Legal Officer, since 2018   Senior Company Counsel of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. since 2018 (previously Senior Counsel from 2007 to 2018). Vice President of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC from 2008 to 2014.    

Michael H. Whitaker

(Born 1967)

  Chief Compliance Officer, since 2016   Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer since 2016. Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer for Fidelity Investments from 2007 to 2016.    

David Berardi

(Born 1975)

  Assistant Treasurer, since 2009   Vice President of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2009. Vice President of Evergreen Investment Management Company, LLC from 2008 to 2010. Manager of Fund Reporting and Control for Evergreen Investment Management Company, LLC from 2004 to 2010.    

 

 

 

 

1

Jeremy DePalma acts as Treasurer of 76 funds and Assistant Treasurer of 76 funds in the Fund Complex.

 

2 

Mr. Harris will replace Ms. Johnson as the Chairman of the Audit Committee effective January 1, 2019.

 

3 

Mr. Scofield is expected to retire on December 31, 2018.


Table of Contents

 

48   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Other information (unaudited)

BOARD CONSIDERATION OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS:

Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund

Under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund (the “Fund”) must determine whether to approve the continuation of the Fund’s investment advisory and sub-advisory agreements. In this regard, at an in-person meeting held on May 22-23, 2018 (the “Meeting”), the Board, all the members of which have no direct or indirect interest in the investment advisory and sub-advisory agreements and are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Trustees”), reviewed and approved: (i) an investment advisory agreement with Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC (“Funds Management”), (ii) an investment sub-advisory agreement with Wells Capital Management Incorporated (“WellsCap”), an affiliate of Funds Management; and (iii) an investment sub-advisory agreement with Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC (“WFAM International”), an affiliate of Funds Management. The investment advisory agreement with Funds Management and the investment sub-advisory agreements with WellsCap and WFAM International (each, a “Sub-Adviser” and together, the “Sub-Advisers”) are collectively referred to as the “Advisory Agreements.”

At the Meeting, the Board considered the factors and reached the conclusions described below relating to the selection of Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers and the continuation of the Advisory Agreements. Prior to the Meeting, including at an in-person meeting in April 2018, the Trustees conferred extensively among themselves and with representatives of Funds Management about these matters. Also, the Board has adopted a team-based approach, with each team consisting of a sub-set of Trustees, to assist the full Board in the discharge of its duties in reviewing investment performance and other matters throughout the year. The Independent Trustees were assisted in their evaluation of the Advisory Agreements by independent legal counsel, from whom they received separate legal advice and with whom they met separately.

In providing information to the Board, Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers were guided by a detailed set of requests for information submitted to them by independent legal counsel on behalf of the Independent Trustees at the start of the Board’s annual contract renewal process earlier in 2018. In considering and approving the Advisory Agreements, the Trustees considered the information they believed relevant, including but not limited to the information discussed below. The Board considered not only the specific information presented in connection with the Meeting, but also the knowledge gained over time through interaction with Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers about various topics. In this regard, the Board reviewed reports of Funds Management at each of its quarterly meetings, which included, among other things, portfolio reviews and investment performance reports. In addition, the Board and the teams mentioned above confer with portfolio managers at various times throughout the year. The Board did not identify any particular information or consideration that was all-important or controlling, and each individual Trustee may have attributed different weights to various factors.

After its deliberations, the Board unanimously approved the continuation of the Advisory Agreements and determined that the compensation payable to Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers is reasonable. The Board considered the continuation of the Advisory Agreements for the Fund as part of its consideration of agreements for funds across the complex, but its approvals were made on a fund-by-fund basis. The following summarizes a number of important, but not necessarily all, factors considered by the Board in support of its approvals.

Nature, extent and quality of services

The Board received and considered various information regarding the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund by Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers under the Advisory Agreements. This information included, among other things, a summary of the background and experience of senior management of Wells Fargo Asset Management (“WFAM”), of which Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers are a part, a summary of investments made in the business of WFAM, a summary of certain organizational and personnel changes involving Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers, and a description of Funds Management’s and the Sub-Advisers’ business continuity planning programs and of their approaches to data privacy and cybersecurity. The Board considered the additional services provided to the Fund due to the fact that the Fund is a closed-end fund, including, but not limited to, monitoring the Fund’s discount. The Board also considered the qualifications, background, tenure and responsibilities of each of the portfolio managers primarily responsible for the day-to-day portfolio management of the Fund.

The Board evaluated the ability of Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers to attract and retain qualified investment professionals, including research, advisory and supervisory personnel. The Board further considered the compliance programs and compliance records of Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers. In addition, the Board took into account the full range of services provided to the Fund by Funds Management and its affiliates.


Table of Contents

 

Other information (unaudited)   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     49  

Fund investment performance and expenses

The Board considered the investment performance results for the Fund over various time periods ended December 31, 2017. The Board considered these results in comparison to the performance of funds in a custom peer group that included funds selected by Broadridge Inc. (“Broadridge”) and additional funds that were determined by Funds Management to be similar to the Fund (the “Custom Peer Group”), and in comparison to the Fund’s benchmark index and to other comparative data. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge and Funds Management to select the funds in the Custom Peer Group and discussed the limitations inherent in the use of other peer groups. The Board noted that the investment performance of the Fund was higher than or in range of the average investment performance of the Custom Peer Group for all periods under review except the five-year period. The Board also noted that the investment performance of the Fund was higher than its benchmark, the ERC Blended Index, which is a proprietary index used by the Board to help it assess the Fund’s relative performance, for all periods under review.

The Board also received and considered information regarding the Fund’s net operating expense ratio and its various components, including actual management fees, and custodian and other non-management fees. The Board considered this ratio in comparison to the median ratio of funds in the Custom Peer Group and in comparison to the median ratio of funds in an expense group that was determined by Broadridge to be similar to the Fund (the “Broadridge Group”, and together with the Custom Peer Group, the “Expense Groups”). Broadridge is an independent provider of investment company data. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge and Funds Management to select the funds in the Expense Groups, and an explanation from Broadridge of how funds comprising Broadridge expense groups and their expense ratios may vary from year-to-year. Based on the Broadridge reports, the Board noted that the net operating expense ratio of the Fund was lower than or in range of the median net operating expense ratios of the Expense Groups.

The Board took into account the Fund’s investment performance and expense information provided to it among the factors considered in deciding to re-approve the Advisory Agreements.

Investment advisory and sub-advisory fee rates

The Board reviewed and considered the contractual investment advisory fee rate that is payable by the Fund to Funds Management for investment advisory services (the “Advisory Agreement Rate”), both on a stand-alone basis and on a combined basis with the Fund’s contractual administration fee rate (the “Management Rate”). The Board also reviewed and considered the contractual investment sub-advisory fee rates that are payable by Funds Management to each of the Sub-Advisers for investment sub-advisory services (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement Rate”).

Among other information reviewed by the Board was a comparison of the Management Rate of the Fund with those of other funds in the Expense Groups at a common asset level. The Board noted that the Management Rate of the Fund was lower than the average rates for both Expense Groups.

The Board also received and considered information about the portion of the total advisory fee that was retained by Funds Management after payment of the fee to the Sub-Advisers for sub-advisory services. In assessing the reasonableness of this amount, the Board received and evaluated information about the nature and extent of responsibilities retained and risks assumed by Funds Management and not delegated to or assumed by the Sub-Advisers, and about Funds Management’s on-going oversight services. Given the affiliation between Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers, the Board ascribed limited relevance to the allocation of the advisory fee between them.

Based on its consideration of the factors and information it deemed relevant, including those described here, the Board determined that the Advisory Agreement Rate and each Sub-Advisory Agreement Rate was reasonable.

Profitability

The Board received and considered information concerning the profitability of Funds Management, as well as the profitability of both WFAM and Wells Fargo & Co. (“Wells Fargo”) as a whole, from providing services to the Fund and the fund family as a whole. The Board noted that the Sub-Advisers’ profitability information with respect to providing services to the Fund was subsumed in the Wells Fargo and Funds Management profitability analysis.

Funds Management reported on the methodologies and estimates used in calculating profitability, including a description of the methodology used to allocate certain expenses and recent enhancements made to the methodology. Among other things, the Board noted that the levels of profitability reported on a fund-by-fund basis varied widely, depending on factors such as the size and type of fund. Based on its review, the Board did not deem the profits reported by Funds Management, WFAM or Wells Fargo from services provided to the Fund to be at a level that would prevent it from approving the continuation of the Advisory Agreements.


Table of Contents

 

50   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund   Other information (unaudited)

Economies of scale

The Board considered the extent to which Funds Management may experience economies of scale in the provision of management services, and the extent to which scale benefits, if any, would be shared with shareholders. The Board noted that, as is typical of closed-end funds, there are no breakpoints in the Management Rate. Although the Fund would not share in any potential economies of scale through contractual breakpoints, the Board noted that competitive management fee rates set at the outset without regard to breakpoints and fee waiver and expense reimbursement arrangements, as well as investments in the business to enhance services available to Fund shareholders, are means of sharing potential economies of scale with shareholders of the Fund. The Board concluded that the Fund’s fee waiver and expense arrangements constituted a reasonable approach to sharing potential economies of scale with the Fund and its shareholders. The Board also noted that it would have opportunities to revisit the Management Rate as part of future contract reviews.

Other benefits to Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers

The Board received and considered information regarding potential “fall-out” or ancillary benefits received by Funds Management and its affiliates, including the Sub-Advisers, as a result of their relationships with the Fund. Ancillary benefits could include, among others, benefits directly attributable to other relationships with the Fund and benefits potentially derived from an increase in Funds Management’s and the Sub-Advisers’ business as a result of their relationships with the Fund. The Board also reviewed information about soft dollar credits earned and utilized by WellsCap and commissions earned by affiliated brokers from portfolio transactions.

Based on its consideration of the factors and information it deemed relevant, including those described here, the Board did not find that any ancillary benefits received by Funds Management and its affiliates, including the Sub-Advisers, were unreasonable.

Conclusion

At the Meeting, after considering the above-described factors and based on its deliberations and its evaluation of the information described above, the Board unanimously approved the continuation of the Advisory Agreements for an additional one-year period and determined that the compensation payable to Funds Management and the Sub-Advisers is reasonable.


Table of Contents

 

Automatic dividend reinvestment plan   Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund     51  

AUTOMATIC DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN

All common shareholders are eligible to participate in the Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan (“the Plan”). Pursuant to the Plan, unless a common shareholder is ineligible or elects otherwise, all cash dividends and capital gains distributions are automatically reinvested by Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as agent for shareholders in administering the Plan (“Plan Agent”), in additional common shares of the Fund. Whenever the Fund declares an ordinary income dividend or a capital gain dividend (collectively referred to as “dividends”) payable either in shares or in cash, nonparticipants in the Plan will receive cash, and participants in the Plan will receive the equivalent in common shares. The shares are acquired by the Plan Agent for the participant’s account, depending upon the circumstances described below, either (i) through receipt of additional unissued but authorized common shares from the Fund (“newly issued common shares”) or (ii) by purchase of outstanding common shares on the open-market (open-market purchases) on the NYSE Amex or elsewhere. If, on the payment date for any dividend or distribution, the net asset value per share of the common shares is equal to or less than the market price per common share plus estimated brokerage commissions (“market premium”), the Plan Agent will invest the amount of such dividend or distribution in newly issued shares on behalf of the participant. The number of newly issued common shares to be credited to the participant’s account will be determined by dividing the dollar amount of the dividend by the net asset value per share on the date the shares are issued, provided that the maximum discount from the then current market price per share on the date of issuance may not exceed 5%. If on the dividend payment date the net asset value per share is greater than the market value (“market discount”), the Plan Agent will invest the dividend amount in shares acquired on behalf of the participant in open-market purchases. There will be no brokerage charges with respect to shares issued directly by the Fund as a result of dividends or capital gains distributions payable either in shares or in cash. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred with respect to the Plan Agent’s open-market purchases in connection with the reinvestment of dividends. The automatic reinvestment of dividends and distributions will not relieve participants of any federal, state or local income tax that may be payable (or required to be withheld) on such dividends. All correspondence concerning the Plan should be directed to the Plan Agent at 505000, Louisville, Kentucky 40233 or by calling 1-800-730-6001.


Table of Contents

 

This page is intentionally left blank.


Table of Contents

 

LOGO

Transfer Agent, Registrar, Shareholder Servicing

Agent & Dividend Disbursing Agent

Computershare Trust Company, N.A.

P.O. Box 505000

Louisville, Kentucky 40233

1-800-730-6001

Website: wellsfargofunds.com

Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC, is a subsidiary of Wells Fargo & Company and is an affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company’s broker/dealer subsidiaries. Certain material contained in this report may be considered marketing material and has been reviewed by Wells Fargo Funds Distributor, LLC, Member FINRA, an affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Neither Wells Fargo Funds Management nor Wells Fargo Funds Distributor has Fund customer accounts/assets, and neither provides investment advice/recommendations or acts as an investment advice fiduciary to any investor.

NOT FDIC INSURED    NO BANK GUARANTEE     MAY LOSE VALUE

© 2018 Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC. All rights reserved.

 

LOGO     

318241 12-18

AMSI/AR143 10-18

 

 


Table of Contents

ITEM 2. CODE OF ETHICS

(a) As of the end of the period, covered by the report, Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund has adopted a code of ethics that applies to its President and Treasurer. A copy of the code of ethics is filed as an exhibit to this Form N-CSR.

(c) During the period covered by this report, there were no amendments to the provisions of the code of ethics adopted in Item 2(a) above.

(d) During the period covered by this report, there were no implicit or explicit waivers to the provisions of the code of ethics adopted in Item 2(a) above.

ITEM 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

The Board of Trustees of Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund has determined that Judith Johnson is an audit committee financial expert, as defined in Item 3 of Form N-CSR. Mrs. Johnson is independent for purposes of Item 3 of Form N-CSR.

ITEM 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

(a), (b), (c), (d) The following table presents aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for services rendered to the Registrant by the Registrant’s principal accountant. These fees were billed to the registrant and were approved by the Registrant’s audit committee.

 

     Fiscal      Fiscal  
     year ended      year ended  
     October 31, 2018      October 31, 2017  

Audit fees

   $  54,385      $  54,322  

Audit-related fees

     —          —    

Tax fees (1)

     4,245        4,150  

All other fees

     —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 58,630      $ 58,472  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Tax fees consist of fees for tax compliance, tax advice, tax planning and excise tax.     

(e) The Chairman of the Audit Committees is authorized to pre-approve: (1) audit services for the Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund; (2) non-audit tax or compliance consulting or training services provided to the Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund by the independent auditors (“Auditors”) if the fees for any particular engagement are not anticipated to exceed $50,000; and (3) non-audit tax or compliance consulting or training services provided by the Auditors to a Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund’s investment adviser and its controlling entities (where pre-approval is required because the engagement relates directly to the operations and financial reporting of the Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund) if the fee to the Auditors for any particular engagement is not anticipated to exceed $50,000. For any such pre-approval sought from the Chairman, Management shall prepare a brief description of the proposed services. If the Chairman approves of such service, he or she shall sign the statement prepared by Management. Such written statement shall be presented to the full Committees at their next regularly scheduled meetings.    

(f) Not applicable

(g) Not applicable    

 

2


Table of Contents

(h) Not applicable

ITEM 5. AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS

Not applicable.

ITEM 6. INVESTMENTS

A Portfolio of Investments for Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund is included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.

ITEM 7. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

REVISED AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 2018

Scope of Policies and Procedures. These Policies and Procedures (“Procedures”) are used to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the series of Wells Fargo Funds Trust, Wells Fargo Master Trust, Wells Fargo Variable Trust, Asset Allocation Trust, Wells Fargo Global Dividend Opportunity Fund, Wells Fargo Income Opportunities Fund, Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund, and Wells Fargo Utilities and High Income Fund (the “Trusts”) except for those series that exclusively hold non-voting securities (hereafter, all such series, and all such Trusts not having separate series, holding voting securities are referred to as the “Funds”).

Voting Philosophy. The Funds and Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC (“Funds Management”), a registered investment adviser, have adopted these Procedures to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interests of Fund shareholders, without regard to any relationship that any affiliated person of the Fund (or an affiliated person of such affiliated person) may have with the issuer. Funds Management exercises its voting responsibility, as a fiduciary, with the goal of maximizing value to shareholders consistent with governing laws and the investment policies of each Fund. While securities are not purchased to exercise control or to seek to effect corporate change through share ownership, the Funds support sound corporate governance practices within companies in which they invest.

Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of each Trust (the “Board”) has delegated the responsibility for voting proxies relating to the Funds’ portfolio securities to Funds Management. The Board retains the authority to make or ratify any voting decisions or approve any changes to these Procedures as the Board deems appropriate. Funds Management will provide reports to the Board regarding voting matters when and as reasonably requested by the Board. The Board shall review these Procedures as often as it deems appropriate to consider whether any revisions are warranted. On an annual basis, the Board shall receive and review a report from Funds Management on the proxy voting process.

 

3


Table of Contents

Proxy Committee.    The Funds Management Proxy Voting Committee (the “Proxy Committee”) shall be responsible for overseeing the proxy voting process to ensure its implementation in conformance with these Procedures. The Proxy Committee shall coordinate with Funds Management Risk and Compliance to monitor Institutional Shareholder Services (“ISS”), the proxy voting agent for Funds Management, to determine that ISS is accurately applying the Procedures as set forth herein. The Proxy Committee shall review the continuing appropriateness of the Procedures set forth herein, recommend revisions to the Board as necessary and provide an annual update to the Board on proxy voting activity.

Meetings; Committee Actions. The Proxy Committee shall convene or act through written consent, including through the use of electronic systems of record, as needed and when discretionary voting determinations need to be considered. The Proxy Committee shall have the authority to act by vote or written consent of a majority of the full Proxy Committee members, or a designated working group thereof, available at that time. The Proxy Committee shall also meet at least annually to review the Procedures and shall coordinate with Funds Management Risk and Compliance to review the performance of ISS in exercising its proxy voting responsibilities.

Voting Discretion. In all cases, the Proxy Committee will exercise its voting discretion in accordance with the voting philosophy of the Funds. In cases where a proxy item is forwarded by ISS to the Proxy Committee, the Proxy Committee may be assisted in its voting decision through receipt of: (i) independent research and voting recommendations provided by ISS or other independent sources; (ii) input from the investment sub-adviser responsible for purchasing the security; and (iii) information provided by company management and shareholder groups.

Membership. The voting members of the Proxy Committee are identified in Appendix B. Changes to the membership of the Proxy Committee will be made only with Board approval. Upon departure from Funds Management, a member’s position on the Proxy Committee will automatically terminate.

 

4


Table of Contents

Voting Policy. Proxies generally shall be voted in accordance with the recommendations of proxy advisor ISS. However, the following proxy items shall be referred to the Proxy Committee for case-by-case review and vote determination:

 

  1.

Proxy items for meetings deemed of “high importance” where ISS opposes management recommendations; and

 

  2.

Proxy items for any third party registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds, exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds) and business development companies (as defined in Section 2(a)(48) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”)) (“Third Party Fund Holding Voting Matters”).1

The term “high importance” is defined as those items designated Proxy Level 6, 5, or 4 by ISS, which include proxy contests, mergers, capitalization proposals and anti-takeover defenses. (Further detail appears in Appendix A.)

The Proxy Committee may consult Fund sub-advisers on specific proxy voting issues as it deems appropriate or if a sub-adviser makes a recommendation regarding a proxy voting issue. As a general matter, however, proxies are voted consistently on the same matter when securities of an issuer are held by multiple Funds.

Voting decisions made by the Proxy Committee will be reported to ISS to ensure that the vote is registered in a timely manner and included in Form N-PX reporting.

Practical Limitations to Proxy Voting. While Funds Management uses its best efforts to vote proxies, in certain circumstances it may be impractical or impossible for Funds Management to vote proxies (e.g., limited value or unjustifiable costs).

For example, in accordance with local law or business practices, many foreign companies prevent the sales of shares that have been voted for a certain period beginning prior to the shareholder meeting and ending on the day following the meeting (“share blocking”). Due to these restrictions, Funds Management must balance the benefits to its clients of voting proxies against the potentially serious portfolio management consequences of a reduced flexibility to sell the underlying shares at the most advantageous time. As a result, Funds Management will generally not vote those proxies in the absence of an unusual, significant vote or compelling economic importance. Additionally, Funds Management may not be able to vote proxies for certain foreign securities if Funds Management does not receive the proxy statement in time to vote the proxies due to custodial processing delays.

 

 

1 

Where provisions of the 1940 Act specify the manner in which a Third Party Fund Holding Voting Matter must be voted (e.g., vote such matters in accordance with voting instructions sought from a Fund’s shareholders or vote shares in the same proportion as the vote of all other holders of the registered investment company), a Fund shall vote the Third Party Fund Holding Voting Matter accordingly.

5


Table of Contents

Securities on Loan. As a general matter, securities on loan will not be recalled to facilitate proxy voting (in which case the borrower of the security shall be entitled to vote the proxy). However, if the Proxy Committee is aware of an item in time to recall the security and has determined in good faith that the importance of the matter to be voted upon outweighs the loss in lending revenue that would result from recalling the security (i.e., if there is a controversial upcoming merger or acquisition, or some other significant matter), the security will be recalled for voting.

Conflicts of Interest. Funds Management may have a conflict of interest regarding a proxy to be voted upon if, for example, Funds Management or its affiliates have other relationships with the issuer of the proxy. In most instances, conflicts of interest are avoided through a strict and objective application of the voting guidelines attached hereto. However, when the Proxy Committee is aware of a material conflict of interest regarding a matter that would otherwise require a vote by the Proxy Committee or that, in the determination of the Proxy Committee, otherwise warrants the taking of additional steps to mitigate the conflict, the Proxy Committee shall address the material conflict by using any of the following methods:

 

  1.

instructing ISS to vote in accordance with the recommendation ISS makes to its clients;

 

  2.

disclosing the conflict to the Board and obtaining its consent before voting;

 

  3.

submitting the matter to the Board to exercise its authority to vote on such matter;

 

  4.

engaging an independent fiduciary who will direct the Proxy Committee how to vote on such matter;

 

  5.

consulting with outside legal counsel for guidance on resolution of the conflict of interest;

 

  6.

erecting information barriers around the person or persons making voting decisions;

 

  7.

voting in proportion to other shareholders (“mirror voting”); or

 

  8.

voting in other ways that are consistent with each Fund’s obligation to vote in the best interests of its shareholders.

The Proxy Committee will not permit its votes to be influenced by any conflict of interest that exists for any other affiliated person of the Fund (such as a sub-adviser or principal underwriter) or any affiliated persons of such affiliated persons and the Proxy Committee will vote all such matters without regard to the conflict.

Funds Management may also have a conflict of interest regarding a proxy to be voted on if a member of the Board has identified an affiliation, directly or

 

6


Table of Contents

indirectly, with a public or private company (an “Identified Company”). Identified Companies include a Board member’s employer, as well as any company of which the Board member is a director or officer or a 5% or more shareholder. The Proxy Committee shall address such a conflict by instructing ISS to vote in accordance with the recommendation ISS makes to its clients, irrespective of the Proxy Level designated for such matters by ISS.

Disclosure of Policies and Procedures. Each Fund shall disclose in its statement of additional information a description of the policies and procedures it uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to securities held in its portfolio. In addition, each Fund shall disclose in its semi- and annual reports that a description of its proxy voting policies and procedures is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-222-8222, on the Fund’s web site at https://www.wellsfargofunds.com/ and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Disclosure of Proxy Voting Record. Each Trust shall file with the Commission an annual report on Form N-PX not later than August 31 of each year (beginning August 31, 2004), containing the Trust’s proxy voting record for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30.

Each Fund shall disclose in its statement of additional information and semi- and annual reports that information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available without charge on the Funds’ web site at https://www.wellsfargofunds.com/ or by accessing the Commission’s web site at www.sec.gov.

Each Fund shall disclose the following information on Form N-PX for each matter relating to a portfolio security considered at any shareholder meeting held during the period covered by the report and with respect to which the Fund was entitled to vote:

 

  1.

The name of the issuer of the portfolio security;

 

  2.

The exchange ticker symbol of the portfolio security;

 

  3.

The Council of Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (“CUSIP”) number for the portfolio security (unless the CUSIP is not available through reasonably practicable means, in which case it will be omitted);

 

  4.

The shareholder meeting date;

 

  5.

A brief identification of the matter voted on;

 

  6.

Whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a security holder;

 

  7.

Whether the Fund cast its vote on the matter;

 

7


Table of Contents
  8.

How the Fund cast its vote (e.g. for or against a proposal, or abstain; for or withhold regarding election of directors); and

 

  9.

Whether the Fund cast its vote for or against management.

Form N-PX shall be made available to Fund shareholders through the SEC web site.

 

8


Table of Contents

APPENDIX A

TO

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Funds Management will vote proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Trusts in accordance with the following proxy voting guidelines. To the extent the specific guidelines below do not address a proxy voting proposal, Funds Management will vote pursuant to ISS’ current U.S. and International proxy voting guidelines. Proxies for securities held by the Wells Fargo Advantage Social Awareness Fund related to social and environmental proposals will be voted pursuant to ISS’ current SRI Proxy Voting Guidelines. In addition, proxies related to issues not addressed by the specific guidelines below or by ISS’ current U.S. and International proxy voting guidelines will be forwarded to the Proxy Committee for a vote determination by the Proxy Committee.

Uncontested Election of Directors or Trustees

 

THE FUNDS will generally vote for all uncontested director or trustee nominees. The Nominating Committee is in the best position to select nominees who are available and capable of working well together to oversee management of the company. THE FUNDS will not require a performance test for directors.    FOR
THE FUNDS will generally vote for reasonably crafted shareholder proposals calling for directors to be elected with an affirmative majority of votes cast and/or the elimination of the plurality standard for electing directors, unless the company has adopted formal corporate governance principles that present a meaningful alternative to the majority voting standard.    FOR
THE FUNDS will withhold votes for a director if the nominee fails to attend at least 75% of the board and committee meetings without a valid excuse.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will vote against routine election of directors if any of the following apply: company fails to disclose adequate information in a timely manner, serious issues with the finances, questionable transactions, conflicts of interest, record of abuses against minority shareholder interests, bundling of director elections, and/or egregious governance practices.    AGAINST
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from the entire board (except for new nominees) where the director(s) receive more than 50% withhold votes out of those cast and the issue that was the underlying cause of the high level of withhold votes has not been addressed.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from members of the Audit Committee and/or the full board if poor accounting practices, which rise to a level of serious concern, such as: fraud; misapplication of GAAP; and material weaknesses identified in Section 404 disclosures, are identified.    WITHHOLD


Table of Contents
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from members of the Audit Committee if the company receives an adverse opinion on the company’s financial statements from its auditor.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from members of the Audit Committee if there is persuasive evidence that the audit committee entered into an inappropriate indemnification agreement with its auditor that limits the ability of the company, or its shareholders, to pursue legitimate legal recourse against the audit firm.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from all directors (except for new nominees) if the company has adopted or renewed a poison pill without shareholder approval since the company’s last annual meeting, does not put the pill to a vote at the current annual meeting, and does not have a requirement or does not commit to put the pill to shareholder vote within 12 months. In addition, THE FUNDS will withhold votes on all directors at any company that responds to the majority of the shareholders voting by putting the poison pill to a shareholder vote with a recommendation other than to eliminate the pill.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from compensation committee members if they fail to submit one-time transferable stock options (TSO’s) to shareholders for approval.    WITHHOLD
Limitation on Number of Boards a Director May Sit On   
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from directors who sit on more than six boards.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from CEO directors who sit on more than two outside boards besides their own.    WITHHOLD
Ratification of Auditors   
THE FUNDS will vote against auditors and withhold votes from audit committee members if non-audit fees are greater than audit fees, audit-related fees, and permitted tax fees, combined. THE FUNDS will follow the disclosure categories being proposed by the SEC in applying the above formula.   

AGAINST/

WITHHOLD

With the above exception, THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals to ratify auditors unless:    FOR

1.  an auditor has a financial interest in or association with the company, and is therefore not independent, or

   AGAINST


Table of Contents

2.  there is reason to believe that the independent auditor has rendered an opinion that is neither accurate nor indicative of the company’s financial position.

   AGAINST
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals that require auditors to attend annual meetings as auditors are regularly reviewed by the board audit committee, and such attendance is unnecessary.    AGAINST
THE FUNDS will vote for shareholder proposals requesting a shareholder vote for audit firm ratification.    FOR
THE FUNDS will vote against shareholder proposals asking for audit firm rotation. This practice is viewed as too disruptive and too costly to implement for the benefit achieved.    AGAINST
Company Name Change/Purpose   
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to change the company name as management and the board is best suited to determine if such change in company name is necessary.    FOR
However, where the name change is requested in connection with a reorganization of the company, the vote will be based on the merits of the reorganization.    CASE-BY-CASE
In addition, THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals to amend the purpose of the company. Management is in the best position to know whether the description of what the company does is accurate, or whether it needs to be updated by deleting, adding or revising language.    FOR
Employee Stock Purchase Plans/401(k) Employee Benefit Plans   
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to adopt, amend or increase authorized shares for employee stock purchase plans and 401(k) plans for employees as properly structured plans enable employees to purchase common stock at a slight discount and thus own a beneficial interest in the company, provided that the total cost of the company’s plan is not above the allowable cap for the company.    FOR
Similarly, THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals to adopt or amend thrift and savings plans, retirement plans, pension plans and profit plans.    FOR


Table of Contents

Anti-Hedging/Pledging/Speculative Investments Policy

THE FUNDS will consider proposals prohibiting named executive officers from engaging in derivative or speculative transactions involving company stock, including hedging, holding stock in a margin account, or pledging stock as collateral for a loan on a case-by-case basis. The company’s existing policies regarding responsible use of company stock will be considered.    CASE-BY-CASE
Approve Other Business   
THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals to approve other business. This transfer of authority allows the corporation to take certain ministerial steps that may arise at the annual or special meeting.    FOR
However, THE FUNDS retains the discretion to vote against such proposals if adequate information is not provided in the proxy statement, or the measures are significant and no further approval from shareholders is sought.    AGAINST
Independent Board of Directors/Board Committees   
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals requiring that two-thirds of the board be independent directors. An independent board faces fewer conflicts and is best prepared to protect stockholders’ interests.    FOR
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from insiders and affiliated outsiders on boards that are not at least majority independent.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from compensation committee members where there is a pay-for-performance disconnect (for Russell 3000 companies).    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals requesting that the board audit, compensation and/or nominating committees be composed of independent directors, only. Committees should be composed entirely of independent directors in order to avoid conflicts of interest.    FOR
THE FUNDS will withhold votes from any insiders or affiliated outsiders on audit, compensation or nominating committees. THE FUNDS will withhold votes from any insiders or affiliated outsiders on the board if any of these key committees has not been established.    WITHHOLD
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals from shareholders requesting an independent compensation consultant.    AGAINST


Table of Contents

Director Fees

THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to set director fees.    FOR
Minimum Stock Requirements by Directors   
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals requiring directors to own a minimum number of shares of company stock in order to qualify as a director, or to remain on the board. Minimum stock ownership requirements can impose an across-the-board requirement that could prevent qualified individuals from serving as directors.    AGAINST
Indemnification and Liability Provisions for Directors and Officers   
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to allow indemnification of directors and officers, when the actions taken were on behalf of the company and no criminal violations occurred. THE FUNDS will also vote in favor of proposals to purchase liability insurance covering liability in connection with those actions. Not allowing companies to indemnify directors and officers to the degree possible under the law would limit the ability of the company to attract qualified individuals.    FOR
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will vote against indemnity proposals that are overly broad. For example, THE FUNDS will oppose proposals to indemnify directors for acts going beyond mere carelessness, such as gross negligence, acts taken in bad faith, acts not otherwise allowed by state law or more serious violations of fiduciary obligations.    AGAINST
Nominee Statement in the Proxy   
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals that require board nominees to have a statement of candidacy in the proxy, since the proxy statement already provides adequate information pertaining to the election of directors.    AGAINST
Director Tenure/Retirement Age   
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals to limit the tenure of directors as such limitations based on an arbitrary number could prevent qualified individuals from serving as directors. However, THE FUNDS is in favor of inserting cautionary language when the average director tenure on the board exceeds 15 years for the entire board.    AGAINST
The Funds will vote for proposals to establish a mandatory retirement age for directors provided that such retirement age is not less than 65.    FOR


Table of Contents

Board Powers/Procedures/Qualifications

THE FUNDS will consider on a case-by-case basis proposals to amend the corporation’s By-laws so that the Board of Directors shall have the power, without the assent or vote of the shareholders, to make, alter, amend, or rescind the By-laws, fix the amount to be reserved as working capital, and fix the number of directors and what number shall constitute a quorum of the Board. In determining these issues, THE FUNDS will rely on the proxy voting Guidelines.    CASE-BY-CASE
Adjourn Meeting to Solicit Additional Votes   
THE FUNDS will examine proposals to adjourn the meeting to solicit additional votes on a case-by-case basis. As additional solicitation may be costly and could result in coercive pressure on shareholders, THE FUNDS will consider the nature of the proposal and its vote recommendations for the scheduled meeting.    CASE-BY-CASE
THE FUNDS will vote for this item when:   
THE FUNDS is supportive of the underlying merger proposal; the company provides a sufficient, compelling reason to support the adjournment proposal; and the authority is limited to adjournment proposals requesting the authority to adjourn solely to solicit proxies to approve a transaction THE FUNDS supports.    FOR

Reimbursement of Solicitation Expenses

  
THE FUNDS will consider contested elections on a case-by-case basis, considering the following factors: long-term financial performance of the target company relative to its industry; management’s track record; background of the proxy contest; qualifications of director or trustee nominees (both slates); evaluation of what each side is offering shareholders as well as the likelihood that the proposed objectives and goals can be met; and stock ownership positions.    CASE-BY-CASE

Board Structure: Staggered vs. Annual Elections

  
THE FUNDS will consider the issue of classified boards on a case-by-case basis. In some cases, the division of the board into classes, elected for staggered terms, can entrench the incumbent management and make them less responsive to shareholder concerns. On the other hand, in some cases, staggered elections may provide for the continuity of experienced directors on the Board.    CASE-BY-CASE


Table of Contents

Removal of Directors

THE FUNDS will consider on a case-by-case basis proposals to eliminate shareholders’ rights to remove directors with or without cause or only with approval of two-thirds or more of the shares entitled to vote.    CASE-BY-CASE
However, a requirement that a 75% or greater vote be obtained for removal of directors is abusive and will warrant a vote against the proposal.    AGAINST

Board Vacancies

  
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals that allow the board to fill vacancies without shareholder approval as these authorizations run contrary to basic shareholders’ rights.    AGAINST
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will vote for proposals that permit shareholders to elect directors to fill board vacancies.    FOR

Cumulative Voting

  
THE FUNDS will vote on proposals to permit or eliminate cumulative voting on a case-by-case basis based upon the existence of a counter balancing governance structure and company performance, in accordance with its proxy voting guideline philosophy.    CASE-BY-CASE
THE FUNDS will vote for against cumulative voting if the board is elected annually.    AGAINST

Board Size

  
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals that seek to fix the size of the board, as the ability for management to increase or decrease the size of the board in the face of a proxy contest may be used as a takeover defense.    FOR
However, if the company has cumulative voting, downsizing the board may decrease a minority shareholder’s chances of electing a director.   
By increasing the size of the board, management can make it more difficult for dissidents to gain control of the board. Fixing the size of the board also prevents a reduction in the board size as a means to oust independent directors or those who cause friction within an otherwise homogenous board.   

Shareholder Rights Plan (Poison Pills)

  
THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals that request a company to submit its poison pill for shareholder ratification.    FOR


Table of Contents
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will analyze proposals to redeem a company’s poison pill, or requesting the ratification of a poison pill on a case-by-case basis.    CASE-BY-CASE
Poison pills are one of the most potent anti-takeover measures and are generally adopted by boards without shareholder approval. These plans harm shareholder value and entrench management by deterring stock acquisition offers that are not favored by the board.   

Fair Price Provisions

  
THE FUNDS will consider fair price provisions on a case-by-case basis, evaluating factors such as the vote required to approve the proposed mechanism, the vote required to approve the proposed acquisition, the vote required to repeal the fair price provision, and the mechanism for determining the fair price.    CASE-BY-CASE
THE FUNDS will vote against fair price provisions with shareholder vote requirements of 75% or more of disinterested shares.    AGAINST

Greenmail

  
THE FUNDS will generally vote in favor of proposals limiting the corporation’s authority to purchase shares of common stock (or other outstanding securities) from a holder of a stated interest (5% or more) at a premium unless the same offer is made to all shareholders. These are known as “anti-greenmail” provisions. Greenmail discriminates against rank-and-file shareholders and may have an adverse effect on corporate image.    FOR
If the proposal is bundled with other charter or bylaw amendments, THE FUNDS will analyze such proposals on a case-by-case basis. In addition, THE FUNDS will analyze restructurings that involve the payment of pale greenmail on a case-by-case basis.    CASE-BY-CASE

Voting Rights

  
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals that seek to maintain or convert to a one-share, one-vote capital structure as such a principle ensures that management is accountable to all the company’s owners.    FOR
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will vote against any proposals to cap the number of votes a shareholder is entitled to. Any measure that places a ceiling on voting may entrench management and lessen its interest in maximizing shareholder value.    AGAINST


Table of Contents

Dual Class/Multiple-Voting Stock

THE FUNDS will vote against proposals that authorize, amend or increase dual class or multiple-voting stock which may be used in exchanges or recapitalizations. Dual class or multiple-voting stock carry unequal voting rights, which differ from those of the broadly traded class of common stock.    AGAINST
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will vote for the elimination of dual class or multiple-voting stock, which carry different rights than the common stock.    FOR

Confidential Voting

  
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to adopt confidential voting.    FOR

Vote Tabulations

  
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals asking corporations to refrain from counting abstentions and broker non-votes in their vote tabulations and to eliminate the company’s discretion to vote unmarked proxy ballots. Vote counting procedures are determined by a number of different standards, including state law, the federal proxy rules, internal corporate policies, and mandates of the various stock exchanges.    AGAINST

Equal Access to the Proxy

  
THE FUNDS will evaluate Shareholder proposals requiring companies to give shareholders access to the proxy ballot for the purpose of nominating board members, on a case-by-case basis taking into account the ownership threshold proposed in the resolution and the proponent’s rationale for the proposal at the targeted company in terms of board and director conduct.    CASE-BY-CASE

Disclosure of Information

  
THE FUNDS will vote against shareholder proposals requesting fuller disclosure of company policies, plans, or business practices. Such proposals rarely enhance shareholder return and in many cases would require disclosure of confidential business information.    AGAINST

Annual Meetings

  
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to amend procedures or change date or location of the annual meeting. Decisions as to procedures, dates or locations of meetings are best placed with management.    FOR


Table of Contents
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will vote against proposals from shareholders calling for a change in the location or date of annual meetings as no date or location proposed will be acceptable to all shareholders.    AGAINST
THE FUNDS will generally vote in favor of proposals to reduce the quorum necessary for shareholders’ meetings, subject to a minimum of a simple majority of the company’s outstanding voting shares.    FOR
Shareholder Advisory Committees/Independent Inspectors   
THE FUNDS will vote against proposals seeking to establish shareholder advisory committees or independent inspectors. The existence of such bodies dilutes the responsibility of the board for managing the affairs of the corporation.    AGAINST

Technical Amendments to the Charter of Bylaws

  
THE FUNDS will generally vote in favor of charter and bylaw amendments proposed solely to conform to modern business practices, for simplification, or to comply with what management’s counsel interprets as applicable law.    FOR
However, amendments that have a material effect on shareholder’s rights will be considered on a case-by-case basis.    CASE-BY-CASE
Bundled Proposals   
THE FUNDS will vote for bundled or “conditional” proxy proposals on a case-by-case basis, as THE FUNDS will examine the benefits and costs of the packaged items, and determine if the effect of the conditioned items are in the best interests of shareholders.    CASE-BY-CASE
Dividends   
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to allocate income and set dividends.    FOR
THE FUNDS will also vote for proposals that authorize a dividend reinvestment program as it allows investors to receive additional stock in lieu of a cash dividend.    FOR
However, if a proposal for a special bonus dividend is made that specifically rewards a certain class of shareholders over another, THE FUNDS will vote against the proposal.    AGAINST


Table of Contents
THE FUNDS will also vote against proposals from shareholders requesting management to redistribute profits or restructure investments. Management is best placed to determine how to allocate corporate earnings or set dividends.    AGAINST

Reduce the Par Value of the Common Stock

  
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to reduce the par value of common stock.    FOR
Preferred Stock Authorization   
THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals to create preferred stock in cases where the company expressly states that the stock will not be used as a takeover defense or carry superior voting rights, or where the stock may be used to consummate beneficial acquisitions, combinations or financings.    FOR
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will vote against proposals to authorize or issue preferred stock if the board has asked for the unlimited right to set the terms and conditions for the stock and may issue it for anti-takeover purposes without shareholder approval (blank check preferred stock).    AGAINST
In addition, THE FUNDS will vote against proposals to issue preferred stock if the shares to be used have voting rights greater than those available to other shareholders.    AGAINST
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to require shareholder approval of blank check preferred stock issues for other than general corporate purposes (white squire placements).    FOR
Preemptive Rights   
THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals to eliminate preemptive rights. Preemptive rights are unnecessary to protect shareholder interests due to the size of most modern companies, the number of investors and the liquidity of trading.    FOR
Share Repurchase Plans   

THE FUNDS will vote for share repurchase plans, unless:

 

3.  there is clear evidence of past abuse of the authority; or

  

FOR

 

AGAINST

4.  the plan contains no safeguards against selective buy-backs.

 

Corporate stock repurchases are a legitimate use of corporate funds and can add to long-term shareholder returns.

   AGAINST


Table of Contents
Executive and Director Compensation Plans   
THE FUNDS will analyze on a case-by-case basis proposals on executive or director compensation plans, with the view that viable compensation programs reward the creation of stockholder wealth by having high payout sensitivity to increases in shareholder value. Such proposals may seek shareholder approval to adopt a new plan, or to increase shares reserved for an existing plan.    CASE-BY-CASE
THE FUNDS will review the potential cost and dilutive effect of the plan. After determining how much the plan will cost, ISS evaluates whether the cost is reasonable by comparing the cost to an allowable cap. The allowable cap is industry-specific, market cap-base, and pegged to the average amount paid by companies performing in the top quartile of their peer groups. If the proposed cost is below the allowable cap, THE FUNDS will vote for the plan. ISS will also apply a pay for performance overlay in assessing equity-based compensation plans for Russell 3000 companies.    FOR
If the proposed cost is above the allowable cap, THE FUNDS will vote against the plan.    AGAINST
Among the plan features that may result in a vote against the plan are:    AGAINST

5.  plan administrators are given the authority to reprice or replace underwater options; repricing guidelines will conform to changes in the NYSE and NASDAQ listing rules.

  
THE FUNDS will vote against equity plans that have high average three-year burn rate. (The burn rate is calculated as the total number of stock awards and stock options granted any given year divided by the number of common shares outstanding.) THE FUNDS will define a high average three-year burn rate as the following: The company’s most recent three-year burn rate exceeds one standard deviation of its four-digit GICS peer group segmented by Russell 3000 index and non-Russell 3000 index; and the company’s most recent three-year burn rate exceeds 2% of common shares outstanding. For companies that grant both full value awards and stock options to their employees, THE FUNDS shall apply a premium on full value awards for the past three fiscal years.    AGAINST
Even if the equity plan fails the above burn rate, THE FUNDS will vote for the plan if the company commits in a public filing to a three-year average burn rate equal to its GICS group burn rate mean plus one standard deviation. If the company fails to fulfill its burn rate commitment, THE FUNDS will consider withholding from the members of the compensation committee.    FOR


Table of Contents
THE FUNDS will calculate a higher award value for awards that have Dividend Equivalent Rights (DER’s) associated with them.    CASE-BY-CASE
THE FUNDS will generally vote for shareholder proposals requiring performance-based stock options unless the proposal is overly restrictive or the company demonstrates that it is using a substantial portion of performance-based awards for its top executives.    FOR
THE FUNDS will vote for shareholder proposals asking the company to expense stock options, as a result of the FASB final rule on expensing stock options.    FOR
THE FUNDS will generally vote for shareholder proposals to exclude pension fund income in the calculation of earnings used in determining executive bonuses/compensation.    FOR
THE FUNDS will generally vote for TSO awards within a new equity plan if the total cost of the equity plan is less than the company’s allowable cap.    FOR
THE FUNDS will generally vote against shareholder proposals to ban future stock option grants to executives. This may be supportable in extreme cases where a company is a serial repricer, has a huge overhang, or has highly dilutive, broad-based (non-approved) plans and is not acting to correct the situation.    AGAINST
THE FUNDS will evaluate shareholder proposals asking companies to adopt holding periods for their executives on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration the company’s current holding period or officer share ownership requirements, as well as actual officer stock ownership in the company.    CASE-BY-CASE
For certain OBRA-related proposals, THE FUNDS will vote for plan provisions that (a) place a cap on annual grants or amend administrative features, and (b) add performance criteria to existing compensation plans to comply with the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code.    FOR
In addition, director compensation plans may also include stock plans that provide directors with the option of taking all or a portion of their cash compensation in the form of stock. THE FUNDS will consider these plans based on their voting power dilution.    CASE-BY-CASE

THE FUNDS will generally vote for retirement plans for directors.

   FOR


Table of Contents

THE FUNDS will evaluate compensation proposals (Tax Havens) requesting share option schemes or amending an existing share option scheme on a case-by-case basis.

 

Stock options align management interests with those of shareholders by motivating executives to maintain stock price appreciation. Stock options, however, may harm shareholders by diluting each owner’s interest. In addition, exercising options can shift the balance of voting power by increasing executive ownership.

   CASE-BY-CASE

Bonus Plans

  
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to adopt annual or long-term cash or cash-and-stock bonus plans on a case-by-case basis. These plans enable companies qualify for a tax deduction under the provisions of Section 162(m) of the IRC. Payouts under these plans may either be in cash or stock and are usually tied to the attainment of certain financial or other performance goals. THE FUNDS will consider whether the plan is comparable to plans adopted by companies of similar size in the company’s industry and whether it is justified by the company’s performance.    CASE-BY-CASE

Deferred Compensation Plans

  
THE FUNDS will generally vote for proposals to adopt or amend deferred compensation plans as they allow the compensation committee to tailor the plan to the needs of the executives or board of directors, unless    FOR

6.  the proposal is embedded in an executive or director compensation plan that is contrary to guidelines

   AGAINST
Disclosure on Executive or Director Compensation Cap or Restrict Executive or Director Compensation   
THE FUNDS will generally vote for shareholder proposals requiring companies to report on their executive retirement benefits (deferred compensation, split-dollar life insurance, SERPs, and pension benefits.    FOR
THE FUNDS will generally vote for shareholder proposals requesting to put extraordinary benefits contained in SERP agreements to a shareholder vote, unless the company’s executive pension plans do not contain excessive benefits beyond what is offered under employee-wide plans.    FOR
THE FUNDS will generally vote against proposals seek to limit executive and director pay.    AGAINST


Table of Contents

Tax-Gross-Up Payments

THE FUNDS will examine on a case-by-case basis proposals calling for companies to adopt a policy of not providing tax gross-up payments to executives.    CASE-BY-CASE

Relocation Benefits

  
The FUNDS will not consider relocation benefits as a problematic pay practice in connection with management say-on-pay proposals.   

Exchange Offers/Re-Pricing

  
The FUNDS will not vote against option exchange programs made available to executives and directors that are otherwise found acceptable.   
Golden and Tin Parachutes   
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals that seek shareholder ratification of golden or tin parachutes as shareholders should have the opportunity to approve or disapprove of these severance agreements.    FOR
Alternatively, THE FUNDS will examine on a case-by-case basis proposals that seek to ratify or cancel golden or tin parachutes. Effective parachutes may encourage management to consider takeover bids more fully and may also enhance employee morale and productivity. Among the arrangements that will be considered on their merits are:    CASE-BY-CASE

7.  arrangements guaranteeing key employees continuation of base salary for more than three years or lump sum payment of more than three times base salary plus retirement benefits;

 

8.  guarantees of benefits if a key employee voluntarily terminates;

 

9.  guarantees of benefits to employees lower than very senior management; and

 

10.  indemnification of liability for excise taxes.

  
By contrast, THE FUNDS will vote against proposals that would guarantee benefits in a management-led buyout.    AGAINST

Stakeholder Laws

  
THE FUNDS will vote against resolutions that would allow the Board to consider stakeholder interests (local communities, employees, suppliers, creditors, etc.) when faced with a takeover offer.    AGAINST


Table of Contents
Similarly, THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to opt out of stakeholder laws, which permit directors, when taking action, to weight the interests of constituencies other than shareholders in the process of corporate decision-making. Such laws allow directors to consider nearly any factor they deem relevant in discharging their duties.    FOR

Mergers/Acquisitions and Corporate Restructurings

  

THE FUNDS will consider proposals on mergers and acquisitions on a case-by-case basis. THE FUNDS will determine if the transaction is in the best economic interests of the shareholders. THE FUNDS will take into account the following factors:

 

11.  anticipated financial and operating benefits;

 

12.  offer price (cost versus premium);

 

13.  prospects for the combined companies;

 

14.  how the deal was negotiated;

 

15.  changes in corporate governance and their impact on shareholder rights.

   CASE-BY-CASE
In addition, THE FUNDS will also consider whether current shareholders would control a minority of the combined company’s outstanding voting power, and whether a reputable financial advisor was retained in order to ensure the protection of shareholders’ interests.    CASE-BY-CASE
On all other business transactions, i.e. corporate restructuring, spin-offs, asset sales, liquidations, and restructurings, THE FUNDS will analyze such proposals on a case-by-case basis and utilize the majority of the above factors in determining what is in the best interests of shareholders. Specifically, for liquidations, the cost versus premium factor may not be applicable, but THE FUNDS may also review the compensation plan for executives managing the liquidation.    CASE-BY-CASE
Appraisal Rights   
THE FUNDS will vote for proposals to restore, or provide shareholders with rights of appraisal.    FOR
Rights of appraisal provide shareholders who are not satisfied with the terms of certain corporate transactions (such as mergers) the right to demand a judicial review in order to determine the fair value of their shares.   


Table of Contents
Mutual Fund Proxies   
THE FUNDS will vote mutual fund proxies on a case-by-case basis. Proposals may include, and are not limited to, the following issues:    CASE-BY-CASE

16.  eliminating the need for annual meetings of mutual fund shareholders;

 

17.  entering into or extending investment advisory agreements and management contracts;

 

18.  permitting securities lending and participation in repurchase agreements;

 

19.  changing fees and expenses; and

 

20.  changing investment policies.

  


Table of Contents

APPENDIX B

TO

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Members of Funds Management Proxy Voting Committee

Thomas C. Biwer, CFA

Mr. Biwer has 38 years experience in finance and investments. He has served as an investment analyst, portfolio strategist, and corporate pension officer. He received B.S. and M.B.A. degrees from the University of Illinois and has earned the right to use the CFA designation.

Erik J. Sens, CFA

Mr. Sens has 22 years of investment industry experience. He has served as an investment analyst and portfolio manager. He received undergraduate degrees in Finance and Philosophy from the University of San Francisco and has earned the right to use the CFA designation.

Travis L. Keshemberg, CFA

Mr. Keshemberg has 17 years experience in the investment industry. He has served as a overlay portfolio manager and investment consultant. He holds a Masters Degree from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and Bachelors degree from Marquette University. He has earned the right to use the CFA, CIPM and CIMA designations.

Patrick E. McGuinnis, CFA

Mr. McGuinnis has 12 years of experience in the investment industry as an analyst. He holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in Finance from the University of Wisconsin and has earned the right to use the CFA designation.

ITEM 8. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

Niklas Nordenfelt, CFA

Mr. Nordenfelt is currently managing director, senior portfolio manager with the Sutter High Yield Fixed Income team at Wells Capital Management. Niklas joined the Sutter High Yield Fixed Income team of Wells Capital Management in February 2003 as investment strategist. Niklas began his investment career in 1991 and has managed portfolios ranging from quantitative-based and tactical asset allocation strategies to credit driven portfolios. Previous to joining Sutter, Niklas was at Barclays Global Investors (BGI) from 1996-2002 where he was a principal. At BGI, he worked on their international and emerging markets equity strategies after having managed their asset allocation products. Prior to this, Niklas was a quantitative analyst at Fidelity and a portfolio manager and group leader at Mellon Capital Management. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of California, Berkeley, and has earned the right to use the CFA designation.

Philip Susser

Mr. Susser is currently managing director, senior portfolio manager, and co-head of the Sutter High Yield Fixed Income team at Wells Capital Management. Philip joined the Sutter High Yield Fixed Income team as a senior research analyst in 2001. He has extensive research experience in the cable/satellite, gaming, hotels, restaurants, printing/publishing, telecom, REIT, lodging and distressed sectors. Philip’s investment experience began in 1995 spending three years as a securities lawyer at Cahill Gordon and Shearman & Sterling representing underwriters and issuers of high yield debt. Later, Philip evaluated venture investment opportunities for MediaOne Ventures before joining Deutsche Bank as a research analyst. He received his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Pennsylvania and his law degree from the University of Michigan Law School.


Table of Contents

Lauren van Biljon, CFA

Lauren van Biljon is a portfolio manager and sovereign analyst with the Wells Fargo Asset Management (WFAM) Global Fixed Income team. She joined WFAM from Evergreen Investments in 2009. Prior to this, she served as an emerging markets analyst with 4Cast Ltd., where she began her investment industry career in 2007. She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, and a master’s degree in economics from the University of Edinburgh, U.K. She has earned the right to use the CFA designation and is a member of the Society of Technical Analysts (STA).

Noah Wise, CFA

Noah Wise is a portfolio manager for the Wells Capital Management Customized Fixed Income team. Noah joined Wells Capital Management in 2008 as a research analyst and later became a portfolio manager in 2013. Prior to joining WellsCap, Noah worked as a lead market maker for Interactive Brokers. He began his investment industry career as an intern for Capital Financial Services in 2001. Noah earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in securities analysis from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He has earned the right to use the CFA designation.

Christopher Y. Kauffman, CFA

Mr. Kauffman is a portfolio manager for the Wells Capital Management Fixed Income team. He joined WellsCap from Tattersall Advisory Group (TAG), where he served in a similar role since 2003. He began his investment industry career in 1997 as an investment officer for NISA Investment Advisors, where he was responsible for MBS analysis, risk assessment, and trading. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics and a master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance from Washington University in St. Louis. He has earned the right to use the CFA designation and is a member of the St. Louis Society of Financial Analysts and the CFA Institute.

Peter Wilson

Mr. Wilson is a managing director and senior portfolio manager with the Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC Advisors team at Wells Capital Management. Peter is one of five senior members of the investment team that forms the Senior Strategy Team. His responsibilities include macro-portfolio allocation, portfolio positioning, and risk management. He joined WellsCap from Evergreen Investments, where he served in a similar role since 1989. Previously, he served as treasurer and portfolio manager for Axe-Houghton, vice president at Bankers Trust in London and New York, and portfolio manager at Merchant Bankers Kleinwort Benson Ltd. Peter began his investment industry career in 1978 at international stockbrokers James Capel & Co. He was educated in Canada, Hong Kong, and England.

Michael Lee

Mr. Lee is a senior portfolio manager with the Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC Advisors team at Wells Capital Management. Mike is one of five senior members of the investment team that forms the Senior Strategy Team. His responsibilities include the day-to-day management and implementation of portfolio strategies. He joined WellsCap from Evergreen Investments, where he served in a similar role since 1992. Prior to this, he worked at Northern Trust Co. Earlier, he held investment positions at JPMorganChase and National Westminster Bank. Michael began his investment industry career in 1982. He is a member of the U.K. Society of Investment Professionals.

Alex Perrin

Mr. Perrin is a senior portfolio manager with the Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC Advisors team at Wells Capital Management. Alex is one of five senior members of the investment team that forms the Senior Strategy Team. His responsibilities include developing investment strategies, macro-portfolio allocation, portfolio positioning, and risk management. He joined Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC (formerly, First International Advisors) in 1992. Alex earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science from Hull University in the U.K. He is a member of the Society of Technical Analysts and an Associate Member of the U.K. Society of Investment Professionals.


Table of Contents

OTHER FUNDS AND ACCOUNTS MANAGED

The following table provides information about the registered investment companies and other pooled investment vehicles and accounts managed by the portfolio manager of the Fund as of the Fund’s most recent year ended October 31, 2018.

Christopher Y. Kauffman

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     7        0        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 3,823.24      $ 0      $ 435.21  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 0.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Michael Lee

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     6        2        14  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 575m      $ 328m      $ 4,114m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 888m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Niklas Nordenfelt

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     6        4        16  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 2,398.5      $ 391.5      $ 1,473.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 0.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Alex Perrin

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     7        2        14  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 593m      $ 328m      $ 4,114m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 888m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Philip Susser

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     5        4        16  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 2,241.6      $ 391.5      $ 1,473.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 0.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Lauren van Biljon

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     4        2        14  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 466m      $ 328m      $ 4,144m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 888m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Peter Wilson

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     3        2        14  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 448m      $ 328m      $ 888m  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 0.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Noah Wise

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     8        4        18  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 2,498.008      $ 1,809.892      $ 1,576.669  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

performance based fee accounts:

 

I manage the following types of accounts:

   Other Registered
Investment Companies
     Other Pooled Investment
Vehicles
     Other Accounts  

Number of above accounts

     0        0        0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets of above accounts (millions)

   $ 0.0      $ 0.0      $ 0.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

MATERIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

The Portfolio Managers face inherent conflicts of interest in their day-to-day management of the Funds and other accounts because the Funds may have different investment objectives, strategies and risk profiles than the other accounts managed by the Portfolio Managers. For instance, to the extent that the Portfolio Managers manage accounts with different investment strategies than the Funds, they may from time to time be inclined to purchase securities, including initial public offerings, for one account but not for a Fund. Additionally, some of the accounts managed by the Portfolio Managers may have different fee structures, including performance fees, which are or have the potential to be higher or lower, in some cases significantly higher or lower, than the fees paid by the Funds. The differences in fee structures may provide an incentive to the Portfolio Managers to allocate more favorable trades to the higher-paying accounts.

To minimize the effects of these inherent conflicts of interest, the Sub-Advisers have adopted and implemented policies and procedures, including brokerage and trade allocation policies and procedures, that they believe address the potential conflicts associated with managing portfolios for multiple clients and ensure that all clients are treated fairly and equitably. Additionally, some of the Sub-Advisers minimize inherent conflicts of interest by assigning the Portfolio Managers to accounts having similar objectives. Accordingly, security block purchases are allocated to all accounts with similar objectives in proportionate weightings. Furthermore, the Sub-Advisers have adopted a Code of Ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act and Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the “Advisers Act”) to address potential conflicts associated with managing the Funds and any personal accounts the Portfolio Managers may maintain.

Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC

Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC’s Portfolio Managers often provide investment management for separate accounts advised in the same or similar investment style as that provided to mutual funds. While management of multiple accounts could potentially lead to conflicts of interest over various issues such as trade allocation, fee disparities and research acquisition, Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC has implemented policies and procedures for the express purpose of ensuring that clients are treated fairly and that potential conflicts of interest are minimized.


Table of Contents

Wells Capital Management

Wells Capital Management’s Portfolio Managers often provide investment management for separate accounts advised in the same or similar investment style as that provided to mutual funds. While management of multiple accounts could potentially lead to conflicts of interest over various issues such as trade allocation, fee disparities and research acquisition, Wells Capital Management has implemented policies and procedures for the express purpose of ensuring that clients are treated fairly and that potential conflicts of interest are minimized.

COMPENSATION

The Portfolio Managers were compensated by their employing sub-adviser from the fees the Adviser paid the Sub-Adviser using the following compensation structure:

Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC Compensation. The compensation structure for Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC’s Portfolio Managers includes a competitive fixed base salary plus variable incentives (Wells Fargo Asset Management (International), LLC utilizes investment management compensation surveys as confirmation). Incentive bonuses are typically tied to pretax relative investment performance of all accounts under his or her management within acceptable risk parameters. Relative investment performance is generally evaluated for 1, 3, and 5 year performance results, with a predominant weighting on the 3-and 5- year time periods, versus the relevant benchmarks and/or peer groups consistent with the investment style. This evaluation takes into account relative performance of the accounts to each account’s individual benchmark and/or the relative composite performance of all accounts to one or more relevant benchmarks consistent with the overall investment style. In the case of each Fund, the benchmark(s) against which the performance of the Fund’s portfolio may be compared for these purposes generally are indicated in the Performance” sections of the Prospectuses.

Wells Capital Management Compensation. The compensation structure for Wells Capital Management’s Portfolio Managers includes a competitive fixed base salary plus variable incentives (Wells Capital Management utilizes investment management compensation surveys as confirmation). Incentive bonuses are typically tied to pretax relative investment performance of all accounts under his or her management within acceptable risk parameters. Relative investment performance is generally evaluated for 1, 3, and 5 year performance results, with a predominant weighting on the 3- and 5- year time periods, versus the relevant benchmarks and/or peer groups consistent with the investment style. This evaluation takes into account relative performance of the accounts to each account’s individual benchmark and/or the relative composite performance of all accounts to one or more relevant benchmarks consistent with the overall investment style. In the case of each Fund, the benchmark(s) against which the performance of the Fund’s portfolio may be compared for these purposes generally are indicated in the Performance” sections of the Prospectuses.

BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF THE FUND

The following table shows for each Portfolio Manager the dollar value of the Fund beneficially owned by the Portfolio Manager as of October 31, 2018:

 

Christopher Y. Kauffman

     none  

Michael Lee

     none  

Niklas Nordenfelt

     none  

Alex Perrin

     none  

Philip Susser

     none  

Lauren van Biljon

     none  

Peter Wilson

     none  

Noah Wise

     none  


Table of Contents

ITEM 9. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

Multi-Sector Income Fund

 

Period

   (a)
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
     (b)
Average
Price Paid
per Share
     (c)
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs
     (d)
Maximum
Number of
Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs
 

11/1/2017 to 11/30/2017

     N/A        N/A        N/A        N/A  

12/1/2017 to 12/31/2017

     N/A        N/A        N/A        N/A  

1/1/2018 to 1/31/2018

     1,368,820        13.15        1,368,820        2,125,148  

2/1/2018 to 2/28/2018

     512,541        13.05        512,541        1,612,607  

3/1/2018 to 3/31/2018

     187,884        13.00        187,884        1,424,723  

4/1/2018 to 4/30/18

     43,447        13.05        43,447        1,381,276  

5/1/2018 to 5/31/2018

     22,143        12.82        22,143        1,359,133  

6/1/2018 to 6/30/2018

     109,984        12.56        109,984        1,249,149  

7/1/2018 to 7/31/2018

     511,128        12.54        511,128        738,021  

8/1/2018 to 8/31/2018

     62,481        12.65        62,481        675,540  

9/1/2018 to 9/30/2018

     201,105        12.33        201,105        474,435  

10/1/2018 to 10/31/2018

     377,650        11.89        377,650        96,785  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     3,397,183        12.82        3,397,183        96,785  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

On November 10, 2017, the Fund announced an extension of its open-market share repurchase program (the “Buyback Program”). Under the extended Buyback Program, the Fund may repurchase up to 10% of its outstanding shares during the period in open market transactions beginning on January 1, 2018 and ending on December 31, 2018.


Table of Contents

ITEM 10. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s Board of Trustees that have been implemented since the registrant’s last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of this Item.

ITEM 11. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) The President and Treasurer have concluded that the Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund (the “Fund”) disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) provide reasonable assurances that material information relating to the Fund is made known to them by the appropriate persons based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report.

(b) There were no significant changes in the Fund’s internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 12. EXHIBITS

(a)(1) Code of Ethics pursuant to Item 2 of Form N-CSR is filed and attached hereto as Exhibit COE.

(a)(2) Certification pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30a-2(a)) is filed and attached hereto as Exhibit 99.CERT.

(a)(3) Not applicable.

(b) Certification pursuant to Rule 30a-2(b) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30a-2(b)) is filed and attached hereto as Exhibit 99.906CERT.


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund

 

By:  
  /s/ Andrew Owen
  Andrew Owen
  President
Date:   December 21, 2018

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.

 

Wells Fargo Multi-Sector Income Fund

 

By:  
  /s/ Andrew Owen
  Andrew Owen
  President
Date:   December 21, 2018
By:  
  /s/ Jeremy DePalma
  Jeremy DePalma
  Treasurer
Date:   December 21, 2018