Round Hill Music Royalty Fund — Strong royalty performance

Round Hill Music Royalty Fund (LSE: RHM)

Last close As at 28/03/2024

1.15

0.00 (0.00%)

Market capitalisation

467m

More on this equity

Research: Investment Companies

Round Hill Music Royalty Fund — Strong royalty performance

A healthy music-streaming market coupled with Round Hill Music Royalty Fund’s (RHMRF’s) attractive portfolio resulted in a strong net publisher’s share (NPS) performance in 9M22, up 36.1% y-o-y to $21.8m. Organic NPS growth from the original portfolio was 15.9% over the same period. Since its launch in November 2020, RHMRF has delivered a NAV total return (TR) of c 28.4% and 12.5% annualised (to end-December 2022 in US dollars), above the targeted annualised NAV TR of 9–11%. Rising interest rates have dented sentiment in non-traditional assets and RHMRF’s share price retrenched notably in 2022. We believe the quality of the underlying portfolio will continue to be reflected in growing NPS, which in turn should support the NAV, and, ultimately, the share price performance.

Fiona Orford-Williams

Written by

Fiona Orford-Williams

Director, TMT

concert stage on rock festival, music instruments silhouettes

Investment Companies

Round Hill Music Royalty Fund

Strong royalty performance

Investment trusts
Special situations – music royalties

23 January 2023

Price

$0.78

Market cap

$316.0m

NAV*

$480.7m

NAV per share*

$1.18

Discount to NAV

34.3%

*Economic NAV at 30 June 2022, as reported by the company.

Yield (prospective)

4.5%

Ordinary shares in issue

407.6m

Code/ISIN

RHM/GG00BMXNVC81

Primary exchange

LSE

AIC sector

Specialist – royalties

52-week high/low

$1.09

$0.75

NAV* high/low

$1.18

$0.98

Gross gearing**

19%

**As at 30 June 2022, defined as total reported debt to the latest reported economic NAV.

Fund objective

Round Hill Music Royalty Fund’s investment objective is to provide investors with an attractive level of regular and growing income and capital returns from investment primarily in high-quality music intellectual property. To achieve this objective, it seeks to invest in a songwriter’s copyright interest in a musical composition or song, together with the rights in the recording of these (known as the master recording rights), along with all other rights and assets considered relevant by the manager.

Bull points

Strong mix of professional music and finance experience in core investment team.

Relatively high predictability of returns.

Prospect of more favourable regulation.

Bear points

Competitive market for assets.

Risk of overpaying for assets.

Higher interest rates could undermine value.

Analysts

Fiona Orford-Williams

+44 (0)20 3077 5739

Victoria Chernykh

+44 (0)20 3077 5700

Milo Bussell

+44 (0)20 3077 5700

Round Hill Music Royalty Fund is a research client of Edison Investment Research Limited

A healthy music-streaming market coupled with Round Hill Music Royalty Fund’s (RHMRF’s) attractive portfolio resulted in a strong net publisher’s share (NPS) performance in 9M22, up 36.1% y-o-y to $21.8m. Organic NPS growth from the original portfolio was 15.9% over the same period. Since its launch in November 2020, RHMRF has delivered a NAV total return (TR) of c 28.4% and 12.5% annualised (to end-December 2022 in US dollars), above the targeted annualised NAV TR of 9–11%. Rising interest rates have dented sentiment in non-traditional assets and RHMRF’s share price retrenched notably in 2022. We believe the quality of the underlying portfolio will continue to be reflected in growing NPS, which in turn should support the NAV, and, ultimately, the share price performance.

RHMRF’s TR since launch to 31 December 2022 (%)

Source: Refinitiv, RHMRF. Note: SI (since inception) annualised in US dollars.

Why invest in RHMRF now

Significant music royalty deals continue to be struck on the market, highlighting the inherent value in RHMRF’s existing portfolio and pipeline. Manager Round Hill adds incremental value through active management, improving the use of synchronisation for advertising, TV and game trailers, film, television and stage shows. In our view, RHMRF’s good revenue growth is supported by a resilient streaming market and formats such as social media, gaming and fitness. The industry agreement on Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) III and IV, setting US royalty rates (see initiation report), provides further positive impetus.

The analyst’s view

RHMRF’s NAV TR performance was due to the economic NAV rising to $1.18 per share (from $0.98 per share at launch) and dividends. The portfolio is valued using an 8.5% discount rate (page 5), still reasonably conservative despite rising interest rates and in line with peers. Due to the conversion of the ‘C’ shares in May 2022 (page 5) resulting in an increase in the number of ordinary shares, and a lag in royalty payment receipts from the recently acquired catalogues, dividend cover for the six months to end June 2022 was 0.8x. These revenues should come through from H223, so Round Hill anticipates dividend cover improving for FY22 and FY23.

Discount

The significantly widened discount (c 34% v c 5% 12 months ago) amid FY22’s rising interest rate environment could serve as an entry opportunity into this portfolio of quality alternative assets.

Fund profile: High-quality music royalties specialist

RHMRF listed on the Specialist Fund Segment of the London Stock Exchange (LSE) on 13 November 2020, with the IPO raising $276.4m. It was the second UK-listed closed-end fund investing in music royalties (following Hipgnosis Songs (SONG), listed in July 2018). On 19 July 2022, the company’s ordinary shares were admitted to trading on the Premium Segment of the Main Market of the LSE. The company also introduced an additional market quote for the ordinary shares on the LSE denominated in sterling, satisfying one of the criteria for inclusion in the major UK indices.

RHMRF’s IFRS NAV is $384.2m (as reported in the accounts on 30 June 2022) and the current market capitalisation is $316.0m. The economic NAV (see the NAV reporting section below) was $480.7m based on the audited $1.18 economic NAV per share at 30 June 2022.

The company seeks to invest in music royalties with a proven track record and wide audience appeal. Further details of the investments are given below. It is worth noting that scale is of value in this industry. The more substantial the catalogue, the greater the bargaining power when it comes to negotiating licensing deals.

RHMRF targets an annualised TR to investors of 9–11% over the medium term, after fees and expenses. It also targets an annualised dividend payment of 4.5 cents per share, payable quarterly.

NAV reporting

RHMRF publishes NAVs twice a year as part of its reporting. Under IFRS, the songs in the company’s portfolio are classified as intangible assets under IAS 38. The catalogues are held at cost and amortised over their useful life (which is determined at acquisition), less any impairment. The investment manager also discloses the fair value of the portfolio of songs as determined by the independent valuer, Citrin Cooperman (incorporating Massarsky, which we refer to in this report) using a discounted cash flow. This portfolio valuation forms the basis of what RHMRF calls the ‘economic NAV’ (SONG calls this measure ‘operative NAV’). We note that ‘economic NAV’ might differ from the portfolio value, as the amortised cost has been used in the IFRS NAV in the accounts. In this note we refer to the economic NAV, unless we state IFRS NAV.

On 31 August 2022 the company announced its economic NAV per share of $1.18 (as at 30 June 2022), up $0.06 from the $1.12 audited value reported in RHMRF’s FY21 annual report ($1.07 audited economic NAV per share at 30 June 2021). Massarsky used an 8.5% discount rate (unchanged from the 31 December 2021 valuation). The increase in the economic NAVs between December 2021 and 30 June 2022 was affected due to

the strength of the portfolio’s organic growth in earnings year-over-year, including an increase in the fair value of The Offspring and Eric Carmen catalogues;

Massarsky’s consideration of macroeconomic factors, including the growth of streaming revenue, the global growth of the recorded music industry, and the impact of a post COVID-19 environment in its analysis; and

an increase in streaming mechanical royalty rates due to the CRB Phono Mechanical III ruling. Agreement was reached in summer 2022 after a successful appeal by songwriters regarding an uplift in historical rates from the 10.5% set for 2013–17 to 15.1% for the years 2018–2022. CRB IV for 2023–27 has been set at 15.35%, still some way short of the ambitious 20% hoped for but nevertheless an uplift over the previous period. RHMRF’s investment in its rights administration and automation should give added impetus to the revenues being collected.

As stated in its FY21 report, RHMRF’s board believes an economic NAV provides a meaningful alternative performance measure. The directors note that the values of catalogues owned directly by RHMRF are based on fair values produced by the independent valuer.

The company floated at $0.98 economic NAV per share. The IFRS NAV per share was $0.94 at 30 June 2022 ($0.95 at 31 December 2021).

Industry developments

While the frenetic pace of deals in FY21 and early FY22 may have slowed, significant deals continue to be struck on high-profile music assets. Heavyweight private equity funds remain committed to the asset class, including Blackstone through its backing of SONG, Brookfield Asset Management’s $2bn investment in Primary Wave, Apollo Global Management, with its $1bn investment in HarbourView Equity Partners, KKR & Co, Pimco, Northleaf Capital/Spirit Music Group and Lyric Capital Group. Weight of capital is important as it facilitates scale, with larger, diversified portfolios earning smoother revenue streams.

Rising interest rates have naturally undermined the relative attractiveness of music royalty revenues compared with other asset classes, but this does not detract from the underlying attractions, particularly with regard to perennial music content. The changed economic backdrop should, at least in theory, change the framework for transaction pricing. However, given the levels of interest in assets – especially the headline-grabbing rights portfolios – the adjustment in transaction values may not be as marked as might be expected in more liquid, shorter-term assets.

The resumption of live music events and tours is a clear positive, reinvigorating sales of legacy content as well as newly released material.

Streaming market update

On 31 October 2022, RHMRF’s board noted ‘the ongoing supportive market environment for streaming revenues demonstrated by a number of recent industry updates that are anticipated to have a positive impact on company revenues.’

The directors and the investment manager, Round Hill, believe that RHMRF’s exposure to positive revenue trends in streaming services is significant, with approximately 50% of RHMRF's revenues derived from digital service providers such as Spotify and Apple Music across master, mechanical and performance royalties.

The company believes that the streaming subscriber growth continues to be the fastest growing area of the music business – the largest streaming service, Spotify grew its premium subscriber base by an extra seven million in Q322, one million above its target. At the end of Q322 it reported 433 million active users, including 188 million subscribers across 183 markets.

RHMRF also noted the recent news by Apple Music to increase its monthly subscription price for its streaming platform in the UK and the US by £1 and $1, respectively. As the number of subscribers, songs and subscription prices on the streaming platforms increase, it is anticipated there will be a net positive impact on RHMRF's revenues.

These updates follow the positive news announced on 1 July 2022 that the US CRB had upheld the 44% staggered increase in streaming mechanical royalty fees dating back to January 2018, which is expected to result in increased fees payable to RHMRF.

Music as a utility gives defensive characteristic

Given the pressure on household budgets with high inflation and increasing cost of living pressures, the place of music subscriptions in spending will inevitably come under scrutiny. However, music has become akin to a utility as it is a common accompaniment to daily activities. In more economically challenged households, there may be a return to advertising-supported listening, rather than full ad-free subscription. However, we anticipate that the overall streaming market will continue to progress as older age groups become more accustomed to passive music consumption, with household penetration growth slowing in the more mature markets such as the US and UK.

There are other structural concerns, for example, industry commentators have highlighted the large number of music tracks being uploaded onto digital platforms and the advent of swathes of AI-generated content is likely to swell these numbers further. Having a high-quality portfolio weighted to classic tracks, such as that of RHMRF, is therefore a clear advantage in holding and growing share of listening.

Another potential challenge is the proliferation of short-form content, such as that on TikTok where short sections, rather than whole tracks, are used.

NPS trading update for the nine months to 30 September 2022

NPS (see our initiation report for detail) for the company's portfolio in the first nine months of 2022 was $21.8m vs $16.0m for the nine months to 30 September 2021, a 36.1% y-o-y increase.

The NPS from the original portfolio investment was up 9.7% y-o-y, with streaming revenue boosted further by advance licence fee payments from some digital services, which lifted the y-o-y increase to 15.9% organic. Streaming revenues were up 147.7% y-o-y, helped by what management describe as ‘a large amount’ from Audiam, an interactive streaming mechanical royalty collection agency.

Management reports that catalogues acquired in FY21 and early FY22 (see below) contributed strongly to the improvement. The Carlin collection had a particularly good Q322, after a relatively flat H122.

The nine-month report also highlights a 46.7% uplift in synchronisation revenues, with almost half of the gain generated by the licensing of Eric Carmen’s track ‘All By Myself’ for use in adverts by Adobe and TD Bank.

Portfolio

Acquisitions

Since 29 December 2021, the group has announced six acquisitions of music publishing catalogues, master royalty income, recorded music income, neighbouring rights and publishing rights (for definitions, please see our initiation report). The investment manager mentions in its 2021 annual report, that its strategy is to acquire vintage catalogues across publishing, recorded music and neighbouring rights. Financial consideration remains key, but Round Hill avoids pure asset gathering without fiscal prudency.

The manager’s non-quoted Funds Three and Three Plus have also continued to actively invest over the period and, along with the deals outlined above, a total of over $200m has been spent on 40 assets. Notable transactions for the private funds have included the catalogue of Nancy Wilson of Heart and the music royalty interests, including producer royalties and neighbouring rights, of the Canadian producer Bruce Fairbairn.

Exhibit 1: RHMRF’s acquisitions since launch

Date of announcement

RHM's name for the catalogue

Number of catalogues

Number of songs

Value*
$m

NPS multiple

Generated revenues $m

Funding source

Feb-21

Assets of Round Hill Fund One

38

>18,000

282

16.3x

>38m

Pipeline acquisitions

May-21

29.14% minority investment in the RH Carlin portfolio

1

>100,000

c 40

16.2x

Undisclosed

Dec-21

Niko Moon

1

29

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

C Share proceeds

Dec-21

Rebelution

1

N/A

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Dec-21

The Richardsons

1

308

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Jan-22

Nancy Wilson

1

N/A

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

End-Dec-21

Portfolio

49

>122,000

372**

16.3x

c 27.2***

Jan-22

David Coverdale

1

N/A

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

C Share proceeds

Feb-22

Alice In Chains

1

253

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

Undisclosed*

All acquisitions following the pipeline assets’ acquisition up to February 2022

N/A

>5,600

178.2

17.9x

Undisclosed*

End-Dec-22

Portfolio

51

>123,600

481**

Undisclosed*

To be reported****

Source: RHMRF. Note: *Due to commercial sensitivities, the company is unable to disclose financial details for each acquisition as it occurs. However, post completion of the investment of proceeds from the C share fund-raise of $86.5m, together with the remaining undrawn balance of its existing revolving credit facility, the company will make further financial disclosure on the acquisitions. **Fair value as in the annual report to 31 December 2021 and interim report to 30 June 2022. ***Royalty income during FY21. ****Will be reported in 2022 annual report to 31 December 2022.

Conversion of C shares

To finance the acquisitions, listed in Exhibit 1, made between 11 August 2021 and 8 February 2022, RHMRF has fully invested the proceeds from its July 2021 $86.5m C share issue and drawn down c $91.7m under its existing revolving credit facility (RCF), using c $178.2m in total, as announced on 11 February 2022.

Consequently, on 11 May 2022 the company announced the conversion of 77.5m C shares into new ordinary shares (c 19% of the current total ordinary share capital). The current total number of ordinary shares in issue with voting rights is 407.6m. No shares are held in treasury.

Valuations

We note that the NPS multiples, at which RHMRF acquires catalogues, have increased over the life of the fund. While the seed portfolio multiples for two catalogues were 16.3x and 16.2x, the average acquisition multiple has grown to 17.9x (see Exhibit 1).

According to the investment manager Round Hill, active management is often not reflected in underlying multiples. It regards valuations of 16–20x NPS for high-quality, iconic, blue-chip, stabilised catalogues as attractive.

Discount rate

Independent valuer Massarsky built in some margin of safety by using an 8.5% discount rate for the latest portfolio valuation at end-June 2022 and applying a 5.4% risk free rate versus the 3.89% 10-year US treasury rate. It also applied a cost of debt higher than 7% versus RHMRF’s interest cost (reported as of end-June 2022) of c 5%. We note that FTI Consulting recently used a 7% discount rate in the H222 securitisation transaction involving RHMRF’s closest peer SONG and Blackstone.

Round Hill highlights in its latest (September 2022) investor presentation that a moderate increase in discount rate does not necessarily mean valuations will have a meaningfully negative impact. The investment manager argues that future cash flow growth from royalties may offset the impact, such as statutory rate changes, higher streaming subscription prices, alternative platform revenue and other valuation sensitivity factors. Round Hill will continue to monitor the impact of rising interest rates, inflation and changing market dynamics on the portfolio valuation and will update its shareholders accordingly.

In its interim report to 30 June 2022 Round Hill estimates the potential impact of a 1% increase in the discount rate, leaving all other factors including potentially offsetting ones, mentioned above, unchanged. It estimates that a 1% discount rate increase would reduce the fair value of the catalogues by 14.3%, reducing the economic NAV of the group by $70.7m, a 14.7% decrease.

Current pipeline assets

Round Hill has seen significant deal flow emerge from within its existing catalogues (including the pipeline investments) and has a proprietary position on those deals.

Current portfolio positioning

RHMRF’s portfolio has 51 catalogues with over 123,600 songs (at end-June 2022). Exhibits 2 and 3 illustrate how the portfolio is diversified by genre and revenue type, with the catalogues representing a rich mixture across artists, genres, vintages and income composition.

Older genre rock (56%, up from 41% on 30 June 2021) continues to have the largest share, followed by pop (17%) and country (11%). Following the investment manager’s ‘high quality compositions’ approach to primarily acquire songs over 10 years old, more than 90% of all the songs in the portfolio are ‘vintage’, written before 2010. The bias to rock is deliberate, as the attractions cross a wider range of age groups and geographies, with hits having a longer ‘shelf-life’. The portfolio is also diversified by revenue type. Around one third of the portfolio’s revenues in masters’ royalties (32%, up from 27% at February 2022, more than 750 master recordings), perceived by the company, as those with the most stable and higher-quality revenues of all highlighted revenue types (Exhibit 3).

Exhibit 2: Portfolio breakdown by genre*

Exhibit 3: Portfolio breakdown by revenue type*

Source: Round Hill. Note: *As at 30 June 2022.

Source: Round Hill. Note: *As at 30 June 2022.

Exhibit 2: Portfolio breakdown by genre*

Source: Round Hill. Note: *As at 30 June 2022.

Exhibit 3: Portfolio breakdown by revenue type*

Source: Round Hill. Note: *As at 30 June 2022.

Performance: Trading since 13 November 2020

RHMRF’s performance track record began on 13 November 2020, its first day of trading. RHMRF’s share price is shown in absolute terms in the left-hand chart and in relative terms in the right-hand chart of Exhibit 4, compared to the MSCI UK High Dividend Yield Index. Notably, RHMRF’s NAV outperformed the index over a one-year period on a TR basis and since launch. It is also worth noting that RHMRF’s last 12 months’ NAV TR of 11.1% to end-December 2022 significantly outperformed most major equity indices, such as MSCI World (-17.7% TR) and S&P 500 (-18.1% TR), all TR in dollars.

The share price fell sharply during H122, as rising interest rate concerns dampened general investor sentiment in non-traditional assets. In addition, RHMRF’s independent valuation is largely based on a discount rate used to value its assets. Rising interest rates have put extra pressure on RHMRF’s share price.

Exhibit 4: Investment trust performance to 31 December 2022

Share price total return performance

Price, NAV and index total return performance (%)

Source: Refinitiv. Note: Three-, five- and SI (since inception) performance figures are annualised.

We compare RHMRF’s and SONG’s performance in Exhibit 5.

Exhibit 5: Selected peer group as at 31 December 2022*

% unless stated

Market cap £m

NAV TR
1 year

NAV TR
3 year

NAV TR
5 year

Sl** of RHM

Prem/disc
(cum-fair)

Ongoing charge***

Perf.
fee

Gross
gearing

Dividend
yield

Round Hill Music Royalty

315.9

11.1

28.1

(34.3)

2.1

Yes

19

5.8

Hipgnosis Songs

1,296.7

19.5

54.9

27.6

(46.8)

1.6

Yes

25

6.1

Simple average (2 funds)

806.3

15.3

54.9

N/A

27.9

(40.6)

1.8

22

5.9

RHM rank in peer group

2

2

N/A

N/A

1

1

N/A

2

2

Source: Morningstar, Edison Investment Research. Note: *Performance based on cum-fair NAV. **Sl = since launch. ***From RHMRF’s and SONG’s latest reports. TR = total return in US dollars. Gross gearing is defined as total reported debt to the latest reported economic NAV.

RHMRF has the lower market capitalisation of the two funds. RHMRF’s track record is still relatively short, but SONG (launched on 11 July 2018) has a four-year performance track record. In performance terms, since launch RHMRF has slightly outperformed SONG on a NAV TR basis, but we note the still short performance period of just over two years. It is typical for new funds to gain momentum over the first two years as they establish themselves, invest and begin harvesting IPO proceeds, as RHMRF has done. This period largely reflects the set-up stage for RHMRF, as it has now fully invested its IPO proceeds and geared up.

The numbers in the premium/discount to NAV column in Exhibit 5 are comparable for RHMRF and SONG. We note that SONG’s latest economic (or operative) NAV per share was $1.83 as at 30 September 2022, and RHMRF’s latest reported economic NAV per share was $1.18 at 30 June 2022.

Gearing and RCF

Gearing represented by borrowing is allowed for up to 25% of economic NAV, calculated at the point of drawdown, in accordance with the prospectus. As at 30 June 2022, debt to economic NAV was 18.7% (15.5% at 31 December 2021).

At 30 June 2022, the capacity under the RCF was $110m, RHMRF had $12m of cash on hand and circa $18m of undrawn credit under the RCF. The company had complied (and continues to comply) with all covenant compliances as per RHMRF's RCF.

Dividends and dividend policy

RHMRF’s primary objective is to reward its investors with a stable income (it also aims for long-term growth of capital). In its interim report for the six months to 30 June 2022, the board confirmed the 4.5% dividend yield target for the financial period to 31 December 2022. This is in line with RHMRF’s long-term annualised dividend yield target of 4.5%, by reference to the IPO issue price of $1.0.

On 24 November 2022 the company declared an interim dividend of $0.01125 per share for Q322, paid on 12 December 2022. This followed the payment of the first two interim dividends for FY22, both $0.01125 per share, totalling $0.0225 per ordinary share.

The dividend policy is to pay dividends quarterly: declare dividends for the quarterly periods ending March, June, September and December and pay in June, September, December and March, respectively. The aim is to pay dividends out of royalty income, but they can be paid out of capital, if necessary, within the dividend policy.

Dividend cover

As at 30 June 2022, the dividend cover was 0.8x. During the six months to end-June 2022, the company deployed the remainder of the C share capital acquiring the David Coverdale and Alice In Chains catalogues. Once the acquisitions completed, the C shares were converted into new ordinary shares and received a full dividend in relation to the quarter ending 31 March 2022. Due to the lag in receipt of royalty payments, revenues from these catalogues should start to be reflected in the second half of the year, so the investment manager expects the dividend cover to improve for the full FY22 and FY23.

We note that the dividend cover for SONG, using the definition from its interim report for the six months to 30 September 2022, is c 1.2x.

The board

Exhibit 6: RHMRF’s board of directors

Board member

Date of appointment

Remuneration in FY21

Shareholdings at end-FY21

Robert Naylor (chairman)

November 2022

N/A

N/A

Trevor Bowen*

October 2020

£118,294

75,000

Audrey McNair

July 2022

N/A

N/A

Caroline Chan

August 2020

£87,673

50,000

Francis Keeling

October 2020

£91,955

20,000

Source: RHMRF. Notes: *Stepped down on 1 November 2022.

RHMRF’s board currently consists of four non-executive directors.

On 1 November 2022 the company announced that Trevor Bowen was stepping down from his role as chairman of the board and as a non-executive director of the company with immediate effect. Upon taking on the role of chairman, Trevor's core objective was to obtain a listing on the premium segment of the Main Market of the LSE for the company. Once this had been achieved, he believed it was an opportune time to step aside and hand over his role.

The company simultaneously announced the appointment of Robert Naylor as chairman of the board and non-executive director with immediate effect. Robert has over 25 years' experience in capital markets and investment trusts. A qualified chartered accountant, having started his career with Ernst & Young in 1996, Robert has held various positions within JP Morgan Asset Management, Panmure Gordon (UK) and Cenkos Securities. He is currently CEO of Intuitive Investments Group, an AIM-listed investment company, providing investors with exposure to a portfolio concentrating on fast growing life sciences businesses. Additionally, he is a non-executive director of Light Science Technologies, an AIM-listed controlled environment agriculture company.

On 20 July 2022, the company announced the appointment of Audrey McNair as a non-executive director with effect from 20 July 2022. Previously, Audrey was global head of business risk at Aberdeen Asset Management.


General disclaimer and copyright

This report has been commissioned by Round Hill Music Royalty Fund and prepared and issued by Edison, in consideration of a fee payable by Round Hill Music Royalty Fund. Edison Investment Research standard fees are £60,000 pa for the production and broad dissemination of a detailed note (Outlook) following by regular (typically quarterly) update notes. Fees are paid upfront in cash without recourse. Edison may seek additional fees for the provision of roadshows and related IR services for the client but does not get remunerated for any investment banking services. We never take payment in stock, options or warrants for any of our services.

Accuracy of content: All information used in the publication of this report has been compiled from publicly available sources that are believed to be reliable, however we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this report and have not sought for this information to be independently verified. Opinions contained in this report represent those of the research department of Edison at the time of publication. Forward-looking information or statements in this report contain information that is based on assumptions, forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable, and therefore involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of their subject matter to be materially different from current expectations.

Exclusion of Liability: To the fullest extent allowed by law, Edison shall not be liable for any direct, indirect or consequential losses, loss of profits, damages, costs or expenses incurred or suffered by you arising out or in connection with the access to, use of or reliance on any information contained on this note.

No personalised advice: The information that we provide should not be construed in any manner whatsoever as, personalised advice. Also, the information provided by us should not be construed by any subscriber or prospective subscriber as Edison’s solicitation to effect, or attempt to effect, any transaction in a security. The securities described in the report may not be eligible for sale in all jurisdictions or to certain categories of investors.

Investment in securities mentioned: Edison has a restrictive policy relating to personal dealing and conflicts of interest. Edison Group does not conduct any investment business and, accordingly, does not itself hold any positions in the securities mentioned in this report. However, the respective directors, officers, employees and contractors of Edison may have a position in any or related securities mentioned in this report, subject to Edison's policies on personal dealing and conflicts of interest.

Copyright: Copyright 2023 Edison Investment Research Limited (Edison).

Australia

Edison Investment Research Pty Ltd (Edison AU) is the Australian subsidiary of Edison. Edison AU is a Corporate Authorised Representative (1252501) of Crown Wealth Group Pty Ltd who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (Number: 494274). This research is issued in Australia by Edison AU and any access to it, is intended only for "wholesale clients" within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of Australia. Any advice given by Edison AU is general advice only and does not take into account your personal circumstances, needs or objectives. You should, before acting on this advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. If our advice relates to the acquisition, or possible acquisition, of a particular financial product you should read any relevant Product Disclosure Statement or like instrument.

New Zealand

The research in this document is intended for New Zealand resident professional financial advisers or brokers (for use in their roles as financial advisers or brokers) and habitual investors who are “wholesale clients” for the purpose of the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (FAA) (as described in sections 5(c) (1)(a), (b) and (c) of the FAA). This is not a solicitation or inducement to buy, sell, subscribe, or underwrite any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. For the purpose of the FAA, the content of this report is of a general nature, is intended as a source of general information only and is not intended to constitute a recommendation or opinion in relation to acquiring or disposing (including refraining from acquiring or disposing) of securities. The distribution of this document is not a “personalised service” and, to the extent that it contains any financial advice, is intended only as a “class service” provided by Edison within the meaning of the FAA (i.e. without taking into account the particular financial situation or goals of any person). As such, it should not be relied upon in making an investment decision.

United Kingdom

This document is prepared and provided by Edison for information purposes only and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation for investment in any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. A marketing communication under FCA Rules, this document has not been prepared in accordance with the legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research.

This Communication is being distributed in the United Kingdom and is directed only at (i) persons having professional experience in matters relating to investments, i.e. investment professionals within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "FPO") (ii) high net-worth companies, unincorporated associations or other bodies within the meaning of Article 49 of the FPO and (iii) persons to whom it is otherwise lawful to distribute it. The investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to such persons. It is not intended that this document be distributed or passed on, directly or indirectly, to any other class of persons and in any event and under no circumstances should persons of any other description rely on or act upon the contents of this document.

This Communication is being supplied to you solely for your information and may not be reproduced by, further distributed to or published in whole or in part by, any other person.

United States

Edison relies upon the "publishers' exclusion" from the definition of investment adviser under Section 202(a)(11) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and corresponding state securities laws. This report is a bona fide publication of general and regular circulation offering impersonal investment-related advice, not tailored to a specific investment portfolio or the needs of current and/or prospective subscribers. As such, Edison does not offer or provide personal advice and the research provided is for informational purposes only. No mention of a particular security in this report constitutes a recommendation to buy, sell or hold that or any security, or that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person.

Frankfurt +49 (0)69 78 8076 960

Schumannstrasse 34b

60325 Frankfurt

Germany

London +44 (0)20 3077 5700

280 High Holborn

London, WC1V 7EE

United Kingdom

New York +1 646 653 7026

1185 Avenue of the Americas

3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036

United States of America

Sydney +61 (0)2 8249 8342

Level 4, Office 1205

95 Pitt Street, Sydney

NSW 2000, Australia

Frankfurt +49 (0)69 78 8076 960

Schumannstrasse 34b

60325 Frankfurt

Germany

London +44 (0)20 3077 5700

280 High Holborn

London, WC1V 7EE

United Kingdom

New York +1 646 653 7026

1185 Avenue of the Americas

3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036

United States of America

Sydney +61 (0)2 8249 8342

Level 4, Office 1205

95 Pitt Street, Sydney

NSW 2000, Australia

General disclaimer and copyright

This report has been commissioned by Round Hill Music Royalty Fund and prepared and issued by Edison, in consideration of a fee payable by Round Hill Music Royalty Fund. Edison Investment Research standard fees are £60,000 pa for the production and broad dissemination of a detailed note (Outlook) following by regular (typically quarterly) update notes. Fees are paid upfront in cash without recourse. Edison may seek additional fees for the provision of roadshows and related IR services for the client but does not get remunerated for any investment banking services. We never take payment in stock, options or warrants for any of our services.

Accuracy of content: All information used in the publication of this report has been compiled from publicly available sources that are believed to be reliable, however we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this report and have not sought for this information to be independently verified. Opinions contained in this report represent those of the research department of Edison at the time of publication. Forward-looking information or statements in this report contain information that is based on assumptions, forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable, and therefore involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of their subject matter to be materially different from current expectations.

Exclusion of Liability: To the fullest extent allowed by law, Edison shall not be liable for any direct, indirect or consequential losses, loss of profits, damages, costs or expenses incurred or suffered by you arising out or in connection with the access to, use of or reliance on any information contained on this note.

No personalised advice: The information that we provide should not be construed in any manner whatsoever as, personalised advice. Also, the information provided by us should not be construed by any subscriber or prospective subscriber as Edison’s solicitation to effect, or attempt to effect, any transaction in a security. The securities described in the report may not be eligible for sale in all jurisdictions or to certain categories of investors.

Investment in securities mentioned: Edison has a restrictive policy relating to personal dealing and conflicts of interest. Edison Group does not conduct any investment business and, accordingly, does not itself hold any positions in the securities mentioned in this report. However, the respective directors, officers, employees and contractors of Edison may have a position in any or related securities mentioned in this report, subject to Edison's policies on personal dealing and conflicts of interest.

Copyright: Copyright 2023 Edison Investment Research Limited (Edison).

Australia

Edison Investment Research Pty Ltd (Edison AU) is the Australian subsidiary of Edison. Edison AU is a Corporate Authorised Representative (1252501) of Crown Wealth Group Pty Ltd who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (Number: 494274). This research is issued in Australia by Edison AU and any access to it, is intended only for "wholesale clients" within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of Australia. Any advice given by Edison AU is general advice only and does not take into account your personal circumstances, needs or objectives. You should, before acting on this advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. If our advice relates to the acquisition, or possible acquisition, of a particular financial product you should read any relevant Product Disclosure Statement or like instrument.

New Zealand

The research in this document is intended for New Zealand resident professional financial advisers or brokers (for use in their roles as financial advisers or brokers) and habitual investors who are “wholesale clients” for the purpose of the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (FAA) (as described in sections 5(c) (1)(a), (b) and (c) of the FAA). This is not a solicitation or inducement to buy, sell, subscribe, or underwrite any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. For the purpose of the FAA, the content of this report is of a general nature, is intended as a source of general information only and is not intended to constitute a recommendation or opinion in relation to acquiring or disposing (including refraining from acquiring or disposing) of securities. The distribution of this document is not a “personalised service” and, to the extent that it contains any financial advice, is intended only as a “class service” provided by Edison within the meaning of the FAA (i.e. without taking into account the particular financial situation or goals of any person). As such, it should not be relied upon in making an investment decision.

United Kingdom

This document is prepared and provided by Edison for information purposes only and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation for investment in any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. A marketing communication under FCA Rules, this document has not been prepared in accordance with the legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research.

This Communication is being distributed in the United Kingdom and is directed only at (i) persons having professional experience in matters relating to investments, i.e. investment professionals within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "FPO") (ii) high net-worth companies, unincorporated associations or other bodies within the meaning of Article 49 of the FPO and (iii) persons to whom it is otherwise lawful to distribute it. The investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to such persons. It is not intended that this document be distributed or passed on, directly or indirectly, to any other class of persons and in any event and under no circumstances should persons of any other description rely on or act upon the contents of this document.

This Communication is being supplied to you solely for your information and may not be reproduced by, further distributed to or published in whole or in part by, any other person.

United States

Edison relies upon the "publishers' exclusion" from the definition of investment adviser under Section 202(a)(11) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and corresponding state securities laws. This report is a bona fide publication of general and regular circulation offering impersonal investment-related advice, not tailored to a specific investment portfolio or the needs of current and/or prospective subscribers. As such, Edison does not offer or provide personal advice and the research provided is for informational purposes only. No mention of a particular security in this report constitutes a recommendation to buy, sell or hold that or any security, or that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person.

Frankfurt +49 (0)69 78 8076 960

Schumannstrasse 34b

60325 Frankfurt

Germany

London +44 (0)20 3077 5700

280 High Holborn

London, WC1V 7EE

United Kingdom

New York +1 646 653 7026

1185 Avenue of the Americas

3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036

United States of America

Sydney +61 (0)2 8249 8342

Level 4, Office 1205

95 Pitt Street, Sydney

NSW 2000, Australia

Frankfurt +49 (0)69 78 8076 960

Schumannstrasse 34b

60325 Frankfurt

Germany

London +44 (0)20 3077 5700

280 High Holborn

London, WC1V 7EE

United Kingdom

New York +1 646 653 7026

1185 Avenue of the Americas

3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036

United States of America

Sydney +61 (0)2 8249 8342

Level 4, Office 1205

95 Pitt Street, Sydney

NSW 2000, Australia

More on Round Hill Music Royalty Fund

View All

Latest from the Investment Companies sector

View All Investment Companies content

Research: Metals & Mining

Pan American Silver — Proxy advisors support Yamana vote

Pan American Silver (PAAS) has reported preliminary operational results for FY22. Consolidated silver and gold production of 18.5Moz and 552.5koz were within the earlier guidance ranges (previously revised for silver). PAAS continues to progress its recently announced plan of arrangement to buy all non-Canadian assets of Yamana Gold. Shareholder votes for both companies are scheduled for 31 January, while the leading proxy advisors ISS and Glass Lewis have recommended PAAS shareholders to vote in favor of the proposed share issue to acquire all outstanding Yamana shares. We put our forecasts and valuation of PAAS under review pending upcoming shareholder approvals of the deal, which we believe could be an important catalyst for the stock.

Continue Reading

Subscribe to Edison

Get access to the very latest content matched to your personal investment style.

Sign up for free