UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM N-CSR
CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Investment Company Act file number 811-10157
Franklin Global Trust
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
One Franklin Parkway, San Mateo, CA 94403-1906
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
Craig S. Tyle, One Franklin Parkway, San Mateo, CA 94403-1906
(Name and address of agent for service)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 650 312-2000
Date of fiscal year end: 7/31
Date of reporting period: 7/31/18
Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.
Franklin Templeton Investments
Why choose Franklin Templeton Investments?
Successful investing begins with ambition. And achievement only comes when you reach for it. That’s why we continually strive to deliver better outcomes for investors. No matter what your goals are, our deep, global investment expertise allows us to offer solutions that can help.
During our more than 70 years of experience, we’ve managed through all kinds of markets—up, down and those in between. We’re always preparing for what may come next. It’s because of this, combined with our strength as one of the world’s largest asset managers that we’ve earned the trust of millions of investors around the world.
Dear Shareholder:
The 12 months ended July 31, 2018, benefited from global economic expansion amid price gains in oil and other commodities, encouraging corporate earnings reports and investor optimism about global economic growth. Corporate earnings increased throughout the period, with many companies exceeding their earnings guidance and reporting increased sales and better operating profit margins. However, investor sentiment was dampened by Korean peninsula tensions, worries that central banks could raise interest rates due to strong economic growth, US trade conflict with China and other allies, and concerns about consumer data privacy. In this environment, stocks in global developed markets excluding the US and Canada ended the period with positive returns, as measured by the MSCI Europe, Australasia and Far East Index.
We are committed to our long-term perspective and disciplined investment approach as we conduct a rigorous, fundamental analysis of securities with a regular emphasis on investment risk management.
We believe active, professional investment management serves investors well. We also recognize the important role of financial advisors in today’s markets and encourage investors to continue to seek their advice. Amid changing markets and economic conditions, we are confident investors with a well-diversified portfolio and a patient, long-term outlook should be well positioned for the years ahead.
Franklin Global Trust’s annual report includes more detail about prevailing conditions and discussions about investment decisions during the period. Please remember all securities markets fluctuate, as do mutual fund share prices.
We thank you for investing with Franklin Templeton, welcome your questions and comments, and look forward to serving your future investment needs.
Sincerely,
Edward B. Jamieson
President and Chief Executive Officer –
Investment Management
Franklin Global Trust
This letter reflects our analysis and opinions as of July 31, 2018, unless otherwise indicated. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable.
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| Not FDIC Insured | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee |
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franklintempleton.com | | Not part of the annual report | | 1 |
Visit franklintempleton.com for fund updates, to access your account, or to find helpful financial planning tools.
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Annual Report
Economic and Market Overview
The US economy grew during the 12-month period under review. After moderating for three consecutive quarters, the economy grew faster in 2018’s second quarter, driven by consumer spending, exports, business investment and government spending. The unemployment rate declined from 4.3% in July 2017, as reported at the beginning of the 12-month period, to 3.9% at period-end.1 Annual inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, increased from 1.7% in July 2017, as reported at the beginning of the period, to 2.9% at period-end.1
The US Federal Reserve (Fed) began reducing its balance sheet in October 2017 as part of its ongoing effort to normalize monetary policy. Furthermore, the Fed raised its target range for the federal funds rate three times during the period, to 1.75%–2.00%. At his congressional testimonies in February and July 2018, the new Fed Chair Jerome Powell indicated the Fed’s intention to gradually raise interest rates. The broad US stock market, as measured by the Standard & Poor’s® 500 Index, rose significantly for the 12-month period.
The global economy expanded during the period amid generally upbeat economic data across regions. In this environment, the MSCI All Country World Index, which measures performance of global developed and emerging market stocks, reached a new all-time high in January 2018 and generated a +11.55% total return for the 12 months ended July 31, 2018.2 Global markets were aided by price gains in oil and the European Central Bank’s (ECB’s) extension of its monetary easing program. Further supporting global stocks were the passage of the US tax reform bill, encouraging corporate earnings reports and investor optimism about global economic growth.
However, global markets reflected investor concerns about tensions in the Korean peninsula and political uncertainties in the US and the European Union (EU), as well as worries that strong economic growth and rising inflation in some parts of the world, particularly in the US, would lead central banks to increase interest rates sooner than expected. Markets were further pressured by the Trump administration’s protectionist trade policies, US trade disputes with its allies and China, and a broad sell-off in information technology stocks in March due to fears of tighter regulation in the sector arising from concerns about consumer data privacy. Near period-end, an overall
easing of tensions in the Korean peninsula and a US-EU agreement to try to reduce trade barriers relieved investors. However, the escalating US-China trade dispute hindered global markets.
In Europe, the UK’s quarterly economic growth moderated in 2018’s first quarter but accelerated in the second quarter. In November, the Bank of England raised its key policy rate for the first time in a decade. The eurozone’s quarterly growth held steady in 2017’s fourth quarter but moderated in 2018’s first and second quarters. The ECB kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged during the period. However, at its October 2017 meeting, the ECB extended the time frame for its bond-buying program from December 2017 to at least September 2018, while reducing the amount of monthly bond purchases in half beginning in January 2018. In June, the ECB announced it would further reduce its monthly bond purchases beginning in October 2018 and indicated it would conclude the program at the end of 2018 while continuing to keep interest rates unchanged through at least the summer of 2019.
In Asia, Japan’s quarterly gross domestic product (GDP) growth declined in 2018’s first quarter but expanded in the second quarter as household and business spending grew. The Bank of Japan left its benchmark interest rate unchanged during the period and continued its monetary stimulus measures. China’s annual GDP moderated in 2018’s second quarter after growing at a stable rate in the previous two quarters. The People’s Bank of China left its benchmark interest rate unchanged during the period but took measures to improve financial liquidity to mitigate the negative effects of the US-China trade dispute and support economic growth.
The foregoing information reflects our analysis and opinions as of July 31, 2018. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable.
1. Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
2. Source: Morningstar.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
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Franklin International Growth Fund
We are pleased to bring you Franklin International Growth Fund’s annual report for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.
Your Fund’s Goal and Main Investments
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing predominantly in equity securities of mid- and large-capitalization companies, generally those with market capitalizations greater than $2 billion, located outside of the US, including developing or emerging market countries. The Fund considers international companies to be those organized under the laws of a country outside of the US or having a principal office in a country outside of the US, or whose securities are listed or traded principally on a recognized stock exchange or over-the-counter market outside of the US.
Performance Overview
For the 12 months ended July 31, 2018, the Fund’s Class A shares delivered a +17.73% cumulative total return. In comparison, the Fund’s benchmark, the MSCI Europe, Australasia and Far East (EAFE) (Net Dividends) Index, returned +6.40%.1 The MSCI EAFE (Net Dividends) Index measures global developed stock market performance excluding the US and Canada, taking into account the impact of foreign withholding taxes. You can find the Fund’s long-term performance data in the Performance Summary beginning on page 7.
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236.
Investment Strategy
In choosing individual equity investments, we employ a disciplined, bottom-up approach to identify attractive investment opportunities that have higher expected revenue and earnings growth than their peers. We use a growth investment style and in-depth, fundamental research to identify high-quality companies, across all industry groups, with
Geographic Composition
Based on Total Net Assets as of 7/31/18
sustainable business models that offer the most attractive combination of growth, quality and valuation.
Manager’s Discussion
Stock selection and overweightings in the industrials, materials and information technology (IT) sectors contributed to relative performance.2
In industrials, Germany-based airplane engine manufacturer MTU Aero Engines contributed to relative performance. The company has been seeing strong demand for both new engines and the maintenance of older engines. Danish logistics firm DSV also contributed to relative results due to improvements in Europe and benefits from the integration of a recent acquisition. UK-listed plumbing products supplier Ferguson also contributed due to strong growth in the US market.
In materials, Umicore, a Belgium-based clean technology materials company, boosted relative performance. Umicore has continued to benefit from strong demand for cathode materials used in electric vehicles. Netherlands-based nutritional
1. Source: Morningstar.
The index is unmanaged and includes reinvestment of any income or distributions. It does not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. One cannot invest directly in an index, and an index is not representative of the Fund’s portfolio.
2. The industrials sector comprises aerospace and defense, machinery, professional services, road and rail, and trading companies and distributors in the SOI. The materials sector comprises chemicals in the SOI. The information technology sector comprises internet software and services; IT services; semiconductors and semiconductor equipment; and software in the SOI.
The dollar value, number of shares or principal amount, and names of all portfolio holdings are listed in the Fund’s Statement of Investments (SOI). The SOI begins on page 24.
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FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL GROWTH FUND
Top 10 Sectors/Industries
7/31/18
| | |
| | | % of Total
Net Assets |
Software | | 8.4% |
Chemicals | | 8.4% |
Internet Software & Services | | 7.9% |
Health Care Equipment & Supplies | | 7.5% |
Biotechnology | | 6.1% |
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail | | 5.5% |
Banks | | 5.4% |
Pharmaceuticals | | 5.4% |
Media | | 4.9% |
Diversified Consumer Services | | 4.5% |
ingredient manufacturer Koninklijke DSM also contributed due to strong underlying growth.
In IT, UK-based online food ordering and delivery firm Just Eat supported relative results due to stronger growth.
In other sectors, Japan-based online apparel retailer Start Today contributed to relative performance due to strong sales trends as more Japanese consumers purchase clothing online.
China-based TAL Education Group, a tutoring services provider, also supported relative results. We continue to believe the company’s earnings momentum should remain strong, given the Chinese education system’s heavy focus on testing and the company’s consistent approach to teaching. GN Store Nord, a hearing aid manufacturer, also contributed to relative results due to strong underlying growth on the adoption of new products.
Conversely, stock selection and an underweighting in the energy sector and stock selection in the consumer staples sector detracted from relative performance.3
In energy, John Wood Group, a UK-based oilfield services company, hindered relative performance. Despite current market challenges given weak capital spending in the sector, we believe the company should see increasing demand for its services as major oil companies begin spending more to help replace existing oil reserves over time. The company is also making progress integrating a recent acquisition.
Top 10 Holdings
7/31/18
| | |
Company Sector/Industry, Country | | % of Total
Net Assets |
Alkermes PLC Biotechnology, U.S. | | 3.5% |
Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC Pharmaceuticals, U.K. | | 3.1% |
MTU Aero Engines AG Aerospace & Defense, Germany | | 3.1% |
MercadoLibre Inc. Internet Software & Services, Argentina | | 3.0% |
Koninklijke DSM NV Chemicals, Netherlands | | 2.9% |
Dollarama Inc. Multiline Retail, Canada | | 2.9% |
Sophos Group PLC Software, U.K. | | 2.9% |
InterXion Holding NV IT Services, Netherlands | | 2.9% |
DSV AS Road & Rail, Denmark | | 2.8% |
Start Today Co. Ltd. Internet & Direct Marketing Retail, Japan | | 2.8% |
In consumer staples, UK-based household and personal care products maker Reckitt Benckiser Group detracted from relative performance.4
In other sectors, detractors included Alkermes, an Ireland-domiciled biopharmaceutical company, and Roche Holding,4 a Switzerland-based pharmaceuticals company, amid concerns about US drug pricing. Kroton Educacional, a Brazil-based provider of higher education, also hampered relative performance. Although results for its latest quarter came in largely as expected, the company warned that revenues and margins would be under pressure from a weak economic environment in Brazil, investment in new campuses, and a shift toward enrollment in less profitable K-12 schools after a recent acquisition. UK-based fashion retailer Boohoo Group also hurt relative results. Other detractors also included Italian wealth manager Azimut Holding,4 a result of political and electoral uncertainty in Italy weighing on the broader sector, as well as Canadian fund manager CI Financial and Belgian bank KBC Groep.
Regionally, stock selection and an underweighting in Europe, and stock selection and an overweighting in the UK, boosted
3. The energy sector comprises energy equipment and services in the SOI.
4. Not held at period-end.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
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FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL GROWTH FUND
relative performance. Conversely, an off-benchmark exposure to Brazil detracted from relative results.
Thank you for your continued participation in Franklin International Growth Fund. We look forward to serving your future investment needs.
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Donald G. Huber, CFA |
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John Remmert |
| | Coleen F. Barbeau, CFA Portfolio Management Team |
The foregoing information reflects our analysis, opinions and portfolio holdings as of July 31, 2018, the end of the reporting period. The way we implement our main investment strategies and the resulting portfolio holdings may change depending on factors such as market and economic conditions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice or an offer for a particular security. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or the Fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable, but the investment manager makes no representation or warranty as to their completeness or accuracy. Although historical performance is no guarantee of future results, these insights may help you understand our investment management philosophy.
Top 10 Countries
7/31/18
| | |
| | | % of Total
Net Assets |
U.K. | | 27.2% |
Germany | | 13.5% |
Japan | | 7.4% |
Canada | | 7.2% |
U.S. | | 6.2% |
Netherlands | | 5.9% |
Denmark | | 5.6% |
Belgium | | 5.4% |
Australia | | 4.8% |
Argentina | | 3.0% |
John Remmert is a senior vice president and lead portfolio manager for the Franklin Equity Group. He is responsible for the management of global and non-US institutional equity portfolios. Prior to joining Franklin Templeton in 2002, Mr. Remmert was with Citibank Global Asset Management and the US Federal Reserve. He entered the financial services industry in 1987. Mr. Remmert holds an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago, a J.D. from Georgetown University, and a B.A. from Rutgers University.
CFA® is a trademark owned by CFA Institute.
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FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL GROWTH FUND
Performance Summary as of July 31, 2018
The performance table and graphs do not reflect any taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends, capital gain distributions, if any, or any realized gains on the sale of Fund shares. Total return reflects reinvestment of the Fund’s dividends and capital gain distributions, if any, and any unrealized gains or losses. Your dividend income will vary depending on dividends or interest paid by securities in the Fund’s portfolio, adjusted for operating expenses of each class. Capital gain distributions are net profits realized from the sale of portfolio securities.
Performance as of 7/31/181
Cumulative total return excludes sales charges. Average annual total return includes maximum sales charges. Sales charges will vary depending on the size of the investment and the class of share purchased. The maximum is 5.75% and the minimum is 0%. Class A: 5.75% maximum initial sales charge; Advisor Class: no sales charges. For other share classes, visit franklintempleton.com.
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| Share Class | | Cumulative Total Return2 | | | Average Annual Total Return3 | |
| | |
A | | | | | | | | |
1-Year | | | +17.73% | | | | +10.99% | |
5-Year | | | +51.44% | | | | +7.37% | |
10-Year | | | +89.70% | | | | +5.98% | |
| | |
Advisor | | | | | | | | |
1-Year | | | +17.98% | | | | +17.98% | |
5-Year | | | +53.52% | | | | +8.95% | |
10-Year | | | +94.83% | | | | +6.90% | |
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236.
See page 9 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL GROWTH FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Total Return Index Comparison for a Hypothetical $10,000 Investment1
Total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods shown. It includes any applicable maximum sales charge, Fund expenses, account fees and reinvested distributions. The unmanaged index includes reinvestment of any income or distributions. It differs from the Fund in composition and does not pay management fees or expenses. One cannot invest directly in an index.
Class A (8/1/08–7/31/18)
Advisor Class (8/1/08–7/31/18)
See page 9 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL GROWTH FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Distributions (8/1/17–7/31/18)
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| Share Class | | Net Investment Income | | | Long-Term Capital Gain | | | Total | |
A | | | $ — | | | | $0.1891 | | | | $0.1891 | |
C | | | $ — | | | | $0.1891 | | | | $0.1891 | |
R | | | $0.0233 | | | | $0.1891 | | | | $0.2124 | |
R6 | | | $0.0983 | | | | $0.1891 | | | | $0.2874 | |
Advisor | | | $0.0768 | | | | $0.1891 | | | | $0.2659 | |
Total Annual Operating Expenses5
| | | | | | | | |
| Share Class | | With Waiver | | | Without Waiver | |
A | | | 1.12% | | | | 1.48% | |
Advisor | | | 0.87% | | | | 1.23% | |
Each class of shares is available to certain eligible investors and has different annual fees and expenses, as described in the prospectus.
All investments involve risks, including possible loss of principal. Special risks are associated with foreign investing, including currency fluctuations, economic instability and political developments. Investments in emerging markets involve heightened risks related to the same factors, in addition to those associated with these markets’ smaller size and lesser liquidity. The Fund is actively managed but there is no guarantee that the manager’s investment decisions will produce the desired results. The Fund’s prospectus also includes a description of the main investment risks.
1. The Fund has an expense reduction and a fee waiver associated with any investments it makes in a Franklin Templeton money fund and/or other Franklin Templeton fund, contractually guaranteed through 11/30/19. Fund investment results reflect the expense reduction and fee waiver; without these reductions, the results would have been lower.
2. Cumulative total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods indicated.
3. Average annual total return represents the average annual change in value of an investment over the periods indicated. Return for less than one year, if any, has not been annualized.
4. Source: Morningstar. The MSCI EAFE Index is a free float-adjusted, market capitalization-weighted index designed to measure equity market performance in global developed markets excluding the US and Canada. The Net Dividends Index reflects the deduction of withholding taxes on reinvested dividends.
5. Figures are as stated in the Fund’s current prospectus and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Your Fund’s Expenses and Financial Highlights sections in this report. In periods of market volatility, assets may decline significantly, causing total annual Fund operating expenses to become higher than the figures shown.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
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FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL GROWTH FUND
Your Fund’s Expenses
As a Fund shareholder, you can incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on Fund purchases and redemptions; and (2) ongoing Fund costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees, and other Fund expenses. All mutual funds have ongoing costs, sometimes referred to as operating expenses. The table below shows ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and can help you understand these costs and compare them with those of other mutual funds. The table assumes a $1,000 investment held for the six months indicated.
Actual Fund Expenses
The table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses in the columns under the heading “Actual.” In these columns the Fund’s actual return, which includes the effect of Fund expenses, is used to calculate the “Ending Account Value” for each class of shares. You can estimate the expenses you paid during the period by following these steps (of course, your account value and expenses will differ from those in this illustration): Divide your account value by $1,000 (if your account had an $8,600 value, then $8,600 ÷ $1,000 = 8.6). Then multiply the result by the number in the row for your class of shares under the headings “Actual” and “Expenses Paid During Period” (if Actual Expenses Paid During Period were $7.50, then 8.6 x $7.50 = $64.50). In this illustration, the actual expenses paid this period are $64.50.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison with Other Funds
Under the heading “Hypothetical” in the table, information is provided about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. This information may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period, but it can help you compare ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with those of other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example for the class of shares you hold with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds.
Please note that expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight ongoing costs and do not reflect any transactional costs. Therefore, information under the heading “Hypothetical” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you compare total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if transactional costs were included, your total costs would have been higher.
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| | | | | | | Actual (actual return after expenses) | | | | Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses) | | | | |
Share Class | | Beginning
Account
Value 2/1/18 | | | | Ending Account
Value 7/31/18 | | Expenses
Paid During Period 2/1/18–7/31/181,2 | | | | Ending Account
Value 7/31/18 | | Expenses
Paid During Period 2/1/18–7/31/181,2 | | | | Net Annualized Expense Ratio2 |
A | | $1,000 | | | | $992.90 | | $5.24 | | | | $1,019.59 | | $5.31 | | | | 1.06% |
C | | $1,000 | | | | $988.60 | | $8.92 | | | | $1,015.82 | | $9.05 | | | | 1.81% |
R | | $1,000 | | | | $991.50 | | $6.37 | | | | $1,018.40 | | $6.46 | | | | 1.29% |
R6 | | $1,000 | | | | $994.80 | | $3.12 | | | | $1,021.67 | | $3.16 | | | | 0.63% |
Advisor | | $1,000 | | | | $994.20 | | $4.01 | | | | $1,020.78 | | $4.06 | | | | 0.81% |
1. Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the six-month period as indicated above—in the far right column—multiplied by the simple average account value over the period indicated, and then multiplied by 181/365 to reflect the one-half year period.
2. Reflects expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements. Does not include acquired fund fees and expenses.
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Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund
This annual report for Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund covers the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018. Effective June 3, 2013, the Fund closed to new investors, with limited exceptions.
Your Fund’s Goal and Main Investments
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing at least 80% of its net assets in a diversified portfolio of marketable equity and equity-related securities of smaller international companies with market capitalizations not exceeding $5 billion (or the equivalent in local currencies), or the highest market capitalization of the MSCI Europe, Australasia and Far East (EAFE) Small Cap Index, whichever is greater, at the time of purchase. The Fund considers international companies to be those organized under the laws of a country outside of the US or having a principal office in a country outside of the US, or whose securities are listed or traded principally on a recognized stock exchange or over-the-counter market outside of the US.
Performance Overview
For the 12 months ended July 31, 2018, the Fund’s Class A shares delivered a +4.32% cumulative total return. In comparison, the Fund’s benchmark, the MSCI Europe, Australasia and Far East (EAFE) Small Cap (Net Dividends) Index, returned +9.22%.1 The MSCI EAFE Small Cap (Net Dividends) Index tracks small cap equity performance in global developed markets excluding the US and Canada, taking into account the impact of foreign withholding taxes. You can find the Fund’s long-term performance data in the Performance Summary beginning on page 15.
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236.
Investment Strategy
In choosing individual equity investments, we use a fundamental, bottom-up approach involving in-depth analysis
Geographic Composition
Based on Total Net Assets as of 7/31/18
of individual equity securities. We employ a quantitative and qualitative approach to identify smaller international companies that we believe have the potential to generate attractive performance with lower downside risk. Such companies tend to have proprietary products and services, which can sustain a longer-term competitive advantage, and they tend to have a higher probability of maintaining a strong balance sheet and/or generating cash flow. After we identify a company, we conduct a thorough analysis to establish its earnings prospects and determine its value. Overall, we seek to invest in growth companies with attractive valuations.
We do not select investments for the Fund that are merely representative of the small cap asset class but instead aim to produce a portfolio of securities of exceptional companies operating in sectors that offer attractive growth potential.
Although we seek to outperform the MSCI EAFE Small Cap (Net Dividends) Index, the Fund may take positions that are not represented in the index.
Manager’s Discussion
Stock selection and overweightings in the real estate, financials and industrials sectors detracted from relative performance.2
In real estate, Hong Kong-based Hang Lung Group detracted from relative results amid concerns about decreased traffic at its high-end malls following a corruption crackdown.
1. Source: Morningstar.
The index is unmanaged and includes reinvestment of any income or distributions. It does not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. One cannot invest directly in an index, and an index is not representative of the Fund’s portfolio.
2. The real estate sector comprises equity real estate investment trusts and real estate management and development in the SOI. The financials sector comprises capital markets and insurance in the SOI. The industrials sector comprises air freight and logistics, commercial services and supplies, machinery, marine, professional services, and trading companies and distributors in the SOI.
The dollar value, number of shares or principal amount, and names of all portfolio holdings are listed in the Fund’s Statement of Investments (SOI). The SOI begins on page 31.
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FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
Nonetheless, earnings and real estate valuations remained robust and we expect the shares to recover over time, narrowing their discount to net asset value.
Top 10 Sectors/Industries
7/31/18
| | |
| | | % of Total
Net Assets |
Insurance | | 9.8% |
Commercial Services & Supplies | | 8.0% |
Real Estate Management & Development | | 7.4% |
Marine | | 7.0% |
Energy Equipment & Services | | 6.1% |
Capital Markets | | 5.2% |
Leisure Products | | 5.1% |
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) | | 4.9% |
Professional Services | | 4.5% |
Tobacco | | 4.1% |
In financials, Fairfax India Holdings, a Canada-based investment firm focused on India, detracted from relative performance amid concerns about emerging markets that arose late in the reporting period. Nonetheless, Fairfax India has been seeing strong asset growth in a number of its investments. US-listed reinsurers RenaissanceRe Holdings and Arch Capital Group detracted from relative results amid concerns about a slower-than-anticipated rise in pricing following several natural disasters in 2017.
In industrials, UK-based shipping broker Clarkson curbed relative performance after the company warned of weaker shipping trends given a softer global economy and the potential for a protracted trade war. Clarkson is a strong operator and remained profitable and cash flow positive despite a weak shipping environment in recent years. Moreover, the company has been able to gain market share in a fragmented ship broker market and has been making acquisitions to increase its worldwide footprint.
Elsewhere, Carpetright,3 a UK-based floor covering retailer, and Headlam Group, a UK-floor covering distributor, detracted from relative results amid ongoing competitive pressures and a sluggish UK spending environment. Liberty Latin America, a cable operator in Latin America, also weighed on relative performance as it suffered extensive disruption to its services in Puerto Rico following 2017’s hurricanes. John Wood Group, a UK-based oilfield services company, hindered relative
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| Top 10 Holdings | | |
| 7/31/18 | | |
| |
Company Sector/Industry, Country | | % of Total
Net Assets |
Fairfax India Holdings Corp. Capital Markets, Canada | | 5.2% |
Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. Insurance, Canada | | 4.7% |
Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. Leisure Products, Japan | | 4.7% |
Clarkson PLC Marine, U.K. | | 4.4% |
Scandinavian Tobacco Group AS Tobacco, Denmark | | 4.1% |
John Wood Group PLC Energy Equipment & Services, U.K. | | 4.0% |
58.com Inc. Internet Software & Services, China | | 4.0% |
Kennedy-Wilson Holdings Inc. Real Estate Management & Development, U.S. | | 3.9% |
Elior Group SA Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure, France | | 3.9% |
Grafton Group PLC Trading Companies & Distributors, U.K. | | 3.9% |
performance as well. Despite the current market challenges given weak capital spending in the energy sector, we believe the company should see increasing demand for its services as major oil companies begin spending more to help replace existing oil reserves over time.
Conversely, stock selection in the information technology (IT) sector contributed to relative results.4
In IT, China-based online classifieds company 58.com contributed to relative performance. The company’s job listing business has remained robust, and it has been seeing steady business in real estate. We believe that given its large user base and merchant network, along with its hard-to-replicate database of local information, 58.com should benefit from its significant critical mass and the market’s substantial barriers to entry.
Elsewhere, Japanese toy and game manufacturer Bandai Namco Holdings supported relative results. The company posted strong earnings for its latest quarter on robust game sales, and it is planning to release a number of new mobile games that could support future growth. An improving economic environment in Europe helped Beneteau, a
3. Not held at period-end.
4. The information technology sector comprises internet software and services in the SOI.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
| | | | |
12 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
France-based boat maker, and Dalata Hotel Group,3 an Ireland-based hotel operator, during the period. Japanese ad agency ASATSU-DK was also a contributor following a buyout.3
UK-based staffing firm PageGroup bolstered relative performance as the company’s business outside the UK has improved as the global economy remains relatively robust. Plastic packaging manufacturer RPC Group supported relative performance due to easing concerns about increased industry regulation. Canada-based insurer Fairfax Financial Holdings contributed to relative results due to the strength of its underlying insurance business, and we believe the company should benefit from firmer pricing for insurance. Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, a real estate investor with significant assets in Europe, was a relative contributor amid the recovery in regional property markets.
Top 10 Countries
7/31/18
| | |
| | | % of Total
Net Assets |
U.K. | | 25.6% |
U.S. | | 11.6% |
Canada | | 9.9% |
Denmark | | 7.9% |
France | | 5.7% |
Ireland | | 5.5% |
Spain | | 4.9% |
Japan | | 4.7% |
Sweden | | 4.1% |
China | | 4.0% |
Regionally, stock selection in the UK, as well as off-benchmark exposure to North America, detracted from relative performance. An overweighting in emerging markets and stock selection in Japan contributed to relative results.
It is important to recognize the effect of currency movements on the Fund’s performance. In general, if the value of the US dollar goes up compared with a foreign currency, an investment traded in that foreign currency will go down in value because it will be worth fewer US dollars. This can have a negative effect on Fund performance. Conversely, when the US dollar weakens in relation to a foreign currency, an investment traded in that foreign currency will increase in value, which can contribute to Fund performance. For the 12 months ended July 31, 2018, the US dollar rose in value relative to most currencies. As a result, the Fund’s performance was negatively affected by the portfolio’s investment predominantly in securities with non-US currency exposure.
Thank you for your continued participation in Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund. We look forward to serving your future investment needs.
| | |
 | | 
Edwin Lugo, CFA Lead Portfolio Manager |
| | |
 | | 
Panjak Nevatia, CFA Portfolio Manager |
The foregoing information reflects our analysis, opinions and portfolio holdings as of July 31, 2018, the end of the reporting period. The way we implement our main investment strategies and the resulting portfolio holdings may change depending on factors such as market and economic conditions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice or an offer for a particular security. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or the Fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable, but the investment manager makes no representation or warranty as to their completeness or accuracy. Although historical performance is no guarantee of future results, these insights may help you understand our investment management philosophy.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 13 |
FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
Pankaj Nevatia is a vice president, portfolio manager and research analyst for Franklin Equity Group. He participates in the management of the Franklin international small-cap and global small mid-cap strategies, including mutual funds and separate accounts, in addition to generalist research responsibilities for global small and mid-capitalization stocks. Prior to joining Franklin Templeton in 2010, Mr. Nevatia worked in the Global Growth Equities Division at AllianceBernstein and in equity research at Cowen and Company. He entered the financial services industry in 2004. Mr. Nevatia holds an M.B.A. from Fordham University, and a postgraduate diploma in computer applications and a B.Com from Bharathiar University in India. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder.
| | | | |
14 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
Performance Summary as of July 31, 2018
The performance table and graphs do not reflect any taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends, capital gain distributions, if any, or any realized gains on the sale of Fund shares. Total return reflects reinvestment of the Fund’s dividends and capital gain distributions, if any, and any unrealized gains or losses. Your dividend income will vary depending on dividends or interest paid by securities in the Fund’s portfolio, adjusted for operating expenses of each class. Capital gain distributions are net profits realized from the sale of portfolio securities.
Performance as of 7/31/18
Cumulative total return excludes sales charges. Average annual total return includes maximum sales charges. Sales charges will vary depending on the size of the investment and the class of share purchased. The maximum is 5.75% and the minimum is 0%. Class A: 5.75% maximum initial sales charge; Advisor Class: no sales charges. For other share classes, visit franklintempleton.com.
| | | | | | | | |
| Share Class | | Cumulative Total Return1 | | | Average Annual Total Return2 | |
| | |
A | | | | | | | | |
1-Year | | | +4.32% | | | | -1.68% | |
5-Year | | | +39.31% | | | | +5.60% | |
10-Year | | | +137.47% | | | | +8.39% | |
| | |
Advisor | | | | | | | | |
1-Year | | | +4.51% | | | | +4.51% | |
5-Year | | | +40.96% | | | | +7.11% | |
10-Year | | | +143.11% | | | | +9.29% | |
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236.
See page 17 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 15 |
FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Total Return Index Comparison for a Hypothetical $10,000 Investment
Total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods shown. It includes any applicable maximum sales charge, Fund expenses, account fees and reinvested distributions. The unmanaged index includes reinvestment of any income or distributions. It differs from the Fund in composition and does not pay management fees or expenses. One cannot invest directly in an index.
Class A (8/1/08–7/31/18)
Advisor Class (8/1/08–7/31/18)
See page 17 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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16 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Distributions (8/1/17–7/31/18)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Share Class | | Net Investment Income | | | Short-Term Capital Gain | | | Long-Term Capital Gain | | | Total | |
A | | | $1.2315 | | | | $0.1116 | | | | $0.4682 | | | | $1.8113 | |
C | | | $1.0709 | | | | $0.1116 | | | | $0.4682 | | | | $1.6507 | |
R | | | $1.1753 | | | | $0.1116 | | | | $0.4682 | | | | $1.7551 | |
R6 | | | $1.3071 | | | | $0.1116 | | | | $0.4682 | | | | $1.8869 | |
Advisor | | | $1.2814 | | | | $0.1116 | | | | $0.4682 | | | | $1.8612 | |
Total Annual Operating Expenses4
| | |
| Share Class |
A | | 1.38% |
Advisor | | 1.14% |
Each class of shares is available to certain eligible investors and has different annual fees and expenses, as described in the prospectus.
All investments involve risks, including possible loss of principal. The Fund is intended for long-term investors who are comfortable with fluctuation in the value of their investment, especially over the short term. Smaller, relatively new and/or unseasoned companies can be particularly sensitive to changing economic conditions, and their prospects for growth are less certain than those of larger, more established companies. Foreign investing involves additional risks such as currency and market volatility, as well as political and social instability. Investments in emerging markets involve heightened risks relating to the same factors. The Fund is actively managed but there is no guarantee that the manager’s investment decisions will produce the desired results. The Fund’s prospectus also includes a description of the main investment risks.
1. Cumulative total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods indicated.
2. Average annual total return represents the average annual change in value of an investment over the periods indicated. Return for less than one year, if any, has not been annualized.
3. Source: Morningstar. The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index is a free float-adjusted, market capitalization-weighted index designed to measure the performance of small cap equity securities of global developed markets excluding the US and Canada. The Net Dividends Index reflects the deduction of withholding taxes on reinvested dividends.
4. Figures are as stated in the Fund’s current prospectus and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Your Fund’s Expenses and Financial Highlights sections in this report. In periods of market volatility, assets may decline significantly, causing total annual Fund operating expenses to become higher than the figures shown.
See www.franklintempletondatasource.com for additional data provider information.
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franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 17 |
FRANKLIN INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
Your Fund’s Expenses
As a Fund shareholder, you can incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on Fund purchases and redemptions; and (2) ongoing Fund costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees, and other Fund expenses. All mutual funds have ongoing costs, sometimes referred to as operating expenses. The table below shows ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and can help you understand these costs and compare them with those of other mutual funds. The table assumes a $1,000 investment held for the six months indicated.
Actual Fund Expenses
The table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses in the columns under the heading “Actual.” In these columns the Fund’s actual return, which includes the effect of Fund expenses, is used to calculate the “Ending Account Value” for each class of shares. You can estimate the expenses you paid during the period by following these steps (of course, your account value and expenses will differ from those in this illustration): Divide your account value by $1,000 (if your account had an $8,600 value, then $8,600 ÷ $1,000 = 8.6). Then multiply the result by the number in the row for your class of shares under the headings “Actual” and “Expenses Paid During Period” (if Actual Expenses Paid During Period were $7.50, then 8.6 x $7.50 = $64.50). In this illustration, the actual expenses paid this period are $64.50.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison with Other Funds
Under the heading “Hypothetical” in the table, information is provided about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. This information may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period, but it can help you compare ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with those of other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example for the class of shares you hold with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds.
Please note that expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight ongoing costs and do not reflect any transactional costs. Therefore, information under the heading “Hypothetical” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you compare total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if transactional costs were included, your total costs would have been higher.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | Actual (actual return after expenses) | | | | Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses) | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | Expenses | | | | | | Expenses | | | | |
| | | Beginning | | | | Ending | | Paid During | | | | Ending | | Paid During | | | | Annualized |
| Share | | Account | | | | Account | | Period | | | | Account | | Period | | | | Expense |
| Class | | Value 2/1/18 | | | | Value 7/31/18 | | 2/1/18–7/31/181 | | | | Value 7/31/18 | | 2/1/18–7/31/181 | | | | Ratio |
A | | $1,000 | | | | $925.20 | | $ 6.64 | | | | $1,017.90 | | $ 6.95 | | | | 1.39% |
C | | $1,000 | | | | $922.10 | | $10.25 | | | | $1,014.08 | | $10.74 | | | | 2.15% |
R | | $1,000 | | | | $924.10 | | $ 7.87 | | | | $1,016.61 | | $ 8.25 | | | | 1.65% |
R6 | | $1,000 | | | | $927.20 | | $ 4.83 | | | | $1,019.79 | | $ 5.06 | | | | 1.01% |
Advisor | | $1,000 | | | | $926.30 | | $ 5.49 | | | | $1,019.09 | | $ 5.76 | | | | 1.15% |
1. Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the six-month period as indicated above—in the far right column—multiplied by the simple average account value over the period indicated, and then multiplied by 181/365 to reflect the one-half year period.
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18 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Financial Highlights
Franklin International Growth Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class A | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.18 | | | | $11.07 | | | | $11.16 | | | | $11.40 | | | | $10.45 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.06 | | | | 0.05 | | | | 0.03 | | | | 0.06 | | | | 0.05 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 2.26 | | | | 2.12 | | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | 0.95 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 2.32 | | | | 2.17 | | | | (0.09 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) | | | 1.00 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | — | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (— | )c | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.19 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.07 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.19 | ) | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (— | )c | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $15.31 | | | | $13.18 | | | | $11.07 | | | | $11.16 | | | | $11.40 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnd | | | 17.73% | | | | 19.70% | | | | (0.80)% | | | | (1.13)% | | | | 9.56% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 1.27% | | | | 1.54% | | | | 1.65% | | | | 1.72% | | | | 1.70% | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 1.15% | e | | | 1.31% | e | | | 1.44% | e | | | 1.49% | | | | 1.49% | e |
Net investment income | | | 0.43% | | | | 0.37% | | | | 0.25% | | | | 0.61% | | | | 0.48% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $161,607 | | | | $185,680 | | | | $169,994 | | | | $182,825 | | | | $179,862 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 58.36% | | | | 28.66% | | | | 27.27% | | | | 47.52% | | | | 29.63% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cAmount rounds to less than $0.01 per share.
dTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable.
eBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 19 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class C | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $12.80 | | | | $10.77 | | | | $10.94 | | | | $11.22 | | | | $10.31 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income (loss)b | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.02 | ) |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 2.16 | | | | 2.07 | | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | 0.93 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 2.13 | | | | 2.03 | | | | (0.17 | ) | | | (0.21 | ) | | | 0.91 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net realized gains | | | (0.19 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.07 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $14.74 | | | | $12.80 | | | | $10.77 | | | | $10.94 | | | | $11.22 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnc | | | 16.76% | | | | 18.85% | | | | (1.55)% | | | | (1.84)% | | | | 8.83% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 2.02% | | | | 2.29% | | | | 2.40% | | | | 2.42% | | | | 2.40% | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 1.90% | d | | | 2.06% | d | | | 2.19% | d | | | 2.19% | | | | 2.19% | d |
Net investment income (loss) | | | (0.32)% | | | | (0.38)% | | | | (0.50)% | | | | (0.09)% | | | | (0.22)% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $22,542 | | | | $8,702 | | | | $6,773 | | | | $7,179 | | | | $5,977 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 58.36% | | | | 28.66% | | | | 27.27% | | | | 47.52% | | | | 29.63% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable.
dBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
20 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class R | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.16 | | | | $11.02 | | | | $11.15 | | | | $11.38 | | | | $10.41 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.04 | | | | 0.02 | | | | (— | )c | | | 0.04 | | | | 0.03 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 2.22 | | | | 2.13 | | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.19 | ) | | | 0.95 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 2.26 | | | | 2.15 | | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.15 | ) | | | 0.98 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.02 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.19 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.07 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.21 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $15.21 | | | | $13.16 | | | | $11.02 | | | | $11.15 | | | | $11.38 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total return | | | 17.34% | | | | 19.54% | | | | (1.10)% | | | | (1.31)% | | | | 9.44% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 1.49% | | | | 1.76% | | | | 1.90% | | | | 1.92% | | | | 1.90% | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 1.37% | d | | | 1.53% | d | | | 1.69% | d | | | 1.69% | | | | 1.69% | d |
Net investment income | | | 0.21% | | | | 0.15% | | | | (—)% | e | | | 0.41% | | | | 0.28% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $1,086 | | | | $371 | | | | $295 | | | | $363 | | | | $222 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 58.36% | | | | 28.66% | | | | 27.27% | | | | 47.52% | | | | 29.63% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cAmount rounds to less than $0.01 per share.
dBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
eRounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 21 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class R6 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.25 | | | | $11.15 | | | | $11.25 | | | | $11.48 | | | | $10.48 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.12 | | | | 0.08 | | | | 0.07 | | | | 0.15 | | | | 0.11 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 2.26 | | | | 2.15 | | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.23 | ) | | | 0.94 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 2.38 | | | | 2.23 | | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) | | | 1.05 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.19 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.07 | ) | | | �� | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.29 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) | | | (0.15 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $15.34 | | | | $13.25 | | | | $11.15 | | | | $11.25 | | | | $11.48 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total return | | | 18.15% | | | | 20.26% | | | | (0.39)% | | | | (0.62)% | | | | 10.05% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 0.85% | | | | 0.90% | | | | 1.01% | | | | 1.02% | | | | 1.02% | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 0.71% | c | | | 0.88% | c | | | 1.00% | c | | | 1.02% | d | | | 1.02% | c,d |
Net investment income | | | 0.87% | | | | 0.80% | | | | 0.69% | | | | 1.08% | | | | 0.95% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $83,292 | | | | $54,347 | | | | $122,862 | | | | $137,950 | | | | $29,132 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 58.36% | | | | 28.66% | | | | 27.27% | | | | 47.52% | | | | 29.63% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
dBenefit of waiver and payments by affiliates rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
22 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Advisor Class | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.24 | | | | $11.13 | | | | $11.24 | | | | $11.47 | | | | $10.48 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.10 | | | | 0.08 | | | | 0.05 | | | | 0.10 | | | | 0.09 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 2.26 | | | | 2.13 | | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | 0.95 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 2.36 | | | | 2.21 | | | | (0.07 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) | | | 1.04 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.19 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.07 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.27 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (0.05 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $15.33 | | | | $13.24 | | | | $11.13 | | | | $11.24 | | | | $11.47 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total return | | | 17.98% | | | | 20.04% | | | | (0.62)% | | | | (0.76)% | | | | 9.91% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 1.02% | | | | 1.29% | | | | 1.40% | | | | 1.42% | | | | 1.40% | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 0.90% | c | | | 1.06% | c | | | 1.19% | c | | | 1.19% | | | | 1.19% | c |
Net investment income | | | 0.68% | | | | 0.62% | | | | 0.50% | | | | 0.91% | | | | 0.78% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $294,254 | | | | $147,926 | | | | $110,441 | | | | $126,130 | | | | $97,134 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 58.36% | | | | 28.66% | | | | 27.27% | | | | 47.52% | | | | 29.63% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 23 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Statement of Investments, July 31, 2018
Franklin International Growth Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country | | | Shares | | | Value | |
| |
Common Stocks 96.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Aerospace & Defense 3.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
MTU Aero Engines AG | | | Germany | | | | 82,000 | | | $ | 17,359,203 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Auto Components 2.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Aptiv PLC | | | United States | | | | 160,000 | | | | 15,691,200 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Banks 5.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
FinecoBank Banca Fineco SpA | | | Italy | | | | 1,320,000 | | | | 15,515,913 | |
a,b Irish Bank Resolution Corp. Ltd. | | | Ireland | | | | 11,500 | | | | — | |
KBC Groep NV | | | Belgium | | | | 195,000 | | | | 14,998,014 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 30,513,927 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Biotechnology 6.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Alkermes PLC | | | United States | | | | 445,000 | | | | 19,513,250 | |
CSL Ltd. | | | Australia | | | | 103,000 | | | | 15,049,404 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 34,562,654 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Capital Markets 4.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
CI Financial Corp. | | | Canada | | | | 565,000 | | | | 9,872,732 | |
Deutsche Boerse AG | | | Germany | | | | 115,000 | | | | 15,158,600 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 25,031,332 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Chemicals 8.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Koninklijke DSM NV | | | Netherlands | | | | 155,000 | | | | 16,522,588 | |
Symrise AG | | | Germany | | | | 170,000 | | | | 15,365,736 | |
Umicore SA | | | Belgium | | | | 262,000 | | | | 15,321,759 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 47,210,083 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Diversified Consumer Services 4.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Kroton Educacional SA | | | Brazil | | | | 4,300,000 | | | | 12,938,185 | |
a TAL Education Group, ADR | | | China | | | | 395,000 | | | | 12,636,050 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 25,574,235 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Energy Equipment & Services 2.7% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
John Wood Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 1,800,000 | | | | 15,356,204 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Health Care Equipment & Supplies 7.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cochlear Ltd. | | | Australia | | | | 79,000 | | | | 11,939,031 | |
GN Store Nord A/S | | | Denmark | | | | 325,000 | | | | 15,508,987 | |
a LivaNova PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 135,000 | | | | 14,867,550 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 42,315,568 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail 5.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Boohoo Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 5,800,000 | | | | 15,321,019 | |
Start Today Co. Ltd. | | | Japan | | | | 395,000 | | | | 15,844,513 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 31,165,532 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Internet Software & Services 7.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Just Eat PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 1,280,000 | | | | 13,326,461 | |
MercadoLibre Inc. | | | Argentina | | | | 49,000 | | | | 16,802,590 | |
a Shopify Inc., A | | | Canada | | | | 103,000 | | | | 14,235,630 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 44,364,681 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
IT Services 2.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a InterXion Holding NV | | | Netherlands | | | | 248,000 | | | | 16,090,240 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Machinery 2.6% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Weir Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 580,000 | | | | 14,837,477 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
24 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin International Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country | | | Shares | | | Value | |
| |
Common Stocks (continued) | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Media 4.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Ascential PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 2,500,000 | | | $ | 13,785,450 | |
CyberAgent Inc. | | | Japan | | | | 260,000 | | | | 13,649,942 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 27,435,392 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
Multiline Retail 2.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dollarama Inc. | | | Canada | | | | 455,000 | | | | 16,439,883 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pharmaceuticals 5.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 823,200 | | | | 17,735,589 | |
Santen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | | | Japan | | | | 750,400 | | | | 12,516,734 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 30,252,323 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Professional Services 2.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Experian PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 630,000 | | | | 15,500,361 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Road & Rail 2.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
DSV AS | | | Denmark | | | | 189,000 | | | | 15,854,580 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment 2.3% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Infineon Technologies AG | | | Germany | | | | 485,000 | | | | 12,854,020 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Software 8.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
The Sage Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 1,920,600 | | | | 15,684,077 | |
SAP SE | | | Germany | | | | 133,000 | | | | 15,532,346 | |
Sophos Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 2,555,900 | | | | 16,201,036 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 47,417,459 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
Trading Companies & Distributors 2.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Ferguson PLC | | | Switzerland | | | | 198,389 | | | | 15,653,942 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Common Stocks (Cost $426,133,959) | | | | | | | | | | | 541,480,296 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
Short Term Investments (Cost $31,353,762) 5.6% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
Money Market Funds 5.6% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
c,d Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio, 1.57% | | | United States | | | | 31,353,762 | | | | 31,353,762 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Investments (Cost $457,487,721) 101.8% | | | | | | | | | | | 572,834,058 | |
Other Assets, less Liabilities (1.8)% | | | | | | | | | | | (10,052,529 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Assets 100.0% | | | | | | | | | | $ | 562,781,529 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
See Abbreviations on page 47.
aNon-income producing.
bFair valued using significant unobservable inputs. See Note 10 regarding fair value measurements.
cSee Note 3(f) regarding investments in affiliated management investment companies.
dThe rate shown is the annualized seven-day effective yield at period end.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 25 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Financial Highlights
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class A | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $20.61 | | | | $17.55 | | | | $19.92 | | | | $22.23 | | | | $19.70 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.47 | | | | 0.19 | | | | 0.22 | | | | 0.19 | | | | 0.19 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 0.41 | | | | 4.37 | | | | (1.98 | ) | | | (0.48 | ) | | | 2.65 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.88 | | | | 4.56 | | | | (1.76 | ) | | | (0.29 | ) | | | 2.84 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (1.23 | ) | | | (0.18 | ) | | | (0.24 | ) | | | (0.29 | ) | | | (0.11 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.58 | ) | | | (1.32 | ) | | | (0.37 | ) | | | (1.73 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (1.81 | ) | | | (1.50 | ) | | | (0.61 | ) | | | (2.02 | ) | | | (0.31 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $19.68 | | | | $20.61 | | | | $17.55 | | | | $19.92 | | | | $22.23 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnc | | | 4.32% | | | | 28.31% | | | | (8.93)% | | | | (0.17)% | | | | 14.48% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expensesd | | | 1.38% | | | | 1.38% | | | | 1.38% | | | | 1.36% | | | | 1.36% | |
Net investment income | | | 2.32% | | | | 1.05% | | | | 1.14% | | | | 0.98% | | | | 0.89% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $142,505 | | | | $161,355 | | | | $169,943 | | | | $212,890 | | | | $257,568 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 26.98% | | | | 21.71% | | | | 21.93% | | | | 24.20% | | | | 16.08% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable.
dBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
26 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class C | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $20.36 | | | | $17.32 | | | | $19.60 | | | | $21.94 | | | | $19.51 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.32 | | | | 0.05 | | | | 0.07 | | | | 0.05 | | | | 0.02 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 0.39 | | | | 4.33 | | | | (1.95 | ) | | | (0.47 | ) | | | 2.63 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.71 | | | | 4.38 | | | | (1.88 | ) | | | (0.42 | ) | | | 2.65 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (1.07 | ) | | | (0.02 | ) | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.19 | ) | | | (0.02 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.58 | ) | | | (1.32 | ) | | | (0.37 | ) | | | (1.73 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (1.65 | ) | | | (1.34 | ) | | | (0.40 | ) | | | (1.92 | ) | | | (0.22 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $19.42 | | | | $20.36 | | | | $17.32 | | | | $19.60 | | | | $21.94 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnc | | | 3.50% | | | | 27.39% | | | | (9.66)% | | | | (0.86)% | | | | 13.59% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expensesd | | | 2.14% | | | | 2.13% | | | | 2.15% | | | | 2.08% | | | | 2.11% | |
Net investment income | | | 1.56% | | | | 0.30% | | | | 0.37% | | | | 0.26% | | | | 0.14% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $19,184 | | | | $22,191 | | | | $22,699 | | | | $30,067 | | | | $35,484 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 26.98% | | | | 21.71% | | | | 21.93% | | | | 24.20% | | | | 16.08% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable.
dBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 27 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class R | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $20.66 | | | | $17.56 | | | | $19.88 | | | | $22.19 | | | | $19.65 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.42 | | | | 0.13 | | | | 0.17 | | | | 0.15 | | | | 0.12 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 0.40 | | | | 4.41 | | | | (1.98 | ) | | | (0.48 | ) | | | 2.66 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.82 | | | | 4.54 | | | | (1.81 | ) | | | (0.33 | ) | | | 2.78 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (1.18 | ) | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) | | | (0.25 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.58 | ) | | | (1.32 | ) | | | (0.37 | ) | | | (1.73 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (1.76 | ) | | | (1.44 | ) | | | (0.51 | ) | | | (1.98 | ) | | | (0.24 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $19.72 | | | | $20.66 | | | | $17.56 | | | | $19.88 | | | | $22.19 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total return | | | 3.97% | | | | 28.07% | | | | (9.20)% | | | | (0.41)% | | | | 14.17% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expensesc | | | 1.64% | | | | 1.64% | | | | 1.64% | | | | 1.62% | | | | 1.62% | |
Net investment income | | | 2.06% | | | | 0.79% | | | | 0.88% | | | | 0.72% | | | | 0.63% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $3,450 | | | | $3,592 | | | | $4,735 | | | | $6,193 | | | | $9,320 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 26.98% | | | | 21.71% | | | | 21.93% | | | | 24.20% | | | | 16.08% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
28 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | �� | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Class R6 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $20.67 | | | | $17.61 | | | | $20.03 | | | | $22.32 | | | | $19.78 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.56 | | | | 0.27 | | | | 0.30 | | | | 0.27 | | | | 0.28 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 0.40 | | | | 4.37 | | | | (2.00 | ) | | | (0.48 | ) | | | 2.65 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.96 | | | | 4.64 | | | | (1.70 | ) | | | (0.21 | ) | | | 2.93 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (1.31 | ) | | | (0.26 | ) | | | (0.35 | ) | | | (0.35 | ) | | | (0.19 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.58 | ) | | | (1.32 | ) | | | (0.37 | ) | | | (1.73 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (1.89 | ) | | | (1.58 | ) | | | (0.72 | ) | | | (2.08 | ) | | | (0.39 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $19.74 | | | | $20.67 | | | | $17.61 | | | | $20.03 | | | | $22.32 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total return | | | 4.70% | | | | 28.87% | | | | (8.61)% | | | | 0.22% | | | | 14.89% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expensesc | | | 1.01% | | | | 0.99% | | | | 0.99% | | | | 0.99% | | | | 1.00% | |
Net investment income | | | 2.69% | | | | 1.44% | | | | 1.53% | | | | 1.35% | | | | 1.25% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $450,645 | | | | $492,010 | | | | $383,411 | | | | $387,070 | | | | $359,449 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 26.98% | | | | 21.71% | | | | 21.93% | | | | 24.20% | | | | 16.08% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 29 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Advisor Class | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $20.67 | | | | $17.59 | | | | $20.00 | | | | $22.30 | | | | $19.77 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.52 | | | | 0.23 | | | | 0.25 | | | | 0.24 | | | | 0.25 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | 0.40 | | | | 4.39 | | | | (1.97 | ) | | | (0.48 | ) | | | 2.65 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.92 | | | | 4.62 | | | | (1.72 | ) | | | (0.24 | ) | | | 2.90 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (1.28 | ) | | | (0.22 | ) | | | (0.32 | ) | | | (0.33 | ) | | | (0.17 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.58 | ) | | | (1.32 | ) | | | (0.37 | ) | | | (1.73 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (1.86 | ) | | | (1.54 | ) | | | (0.69 | ) | | | (2.06 | ) | | | (0.37 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $19.73 | | | | $20.67 | | | | $17.59 | | | | $20.00 | | | | $22.30 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total return | | | 4.51% | | | | 28.68% | | | | (8.74)% | | | | 0.09% | | | | 14.74% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expensesc | | | 1.14% | | | | 1.14% | | | | 1.14% | | | | 1.12% | | | | 1.12% | |
Net investment income | | | 2.56% | | | | 1.29% | | | | 1.38% | | | | 1.22% | | | | 1.13% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $763,309 | | | | $749,573 | | | | $827,351 | | | | $1,300,759 | | | | $1,223,532 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 26.98% | | | | 21.71% | | | | 21.93% | | | | 24.20% | | | | 16.08% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
30 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Statement of Investments, July 31, 2018
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country | | | Shares | | | Value | |
| |
Common Stocks 99.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Air Freight & Logistics 3.3% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Panalpina Welttransport Holding AG | | | Switzerland | | | | 317,499 | | | $ | 45,354,709 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Capital Markets 5.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Fairfax India Holdings Corp. | | | Canada | | | | 4,492,000 | | | | 72,321,200 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial Services & Supplies 8.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Biffa PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 7,377,400 | | | | 22,374,172 | |
Elis SA | | | France | | | | 848,260 | | | | 19,505,175 | |
ISS AS | | | Denmark | | | | 1,385,100 | | | | 51,790,412 | |
a Serco Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 13,028,010 | | | | 17,292,624 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 110,962,383 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Containers & Packaging 3.7% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
RPC Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 4,742,200 | | | | 50,729,730 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Distributors 2.3% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
b Headlam Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 5,372,888 | | | | 32,307,618 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Energy Equipment & Services 6.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Borr Drilling Ltd. | | | Norway | | | | 6,004,875 | | | | 28,435,731 | |
John Wood Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 6,540,675 | | | | 55,799,967 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 84,235,698 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) 4.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Green REIT PLC | | | Ireland | | | | 17,042,181 | | | | 30,018,396 | |
Lar Espana Real Estate Socimi SA | | | Spain | | | | 3,516,610 | | | | 37,428,545 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 67,446,941 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Food & Staples Retailing 3.3% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Produce PLC | | | Ireland | | | | 18,009,900 | | | | 46,236,310 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Food Products 2.7% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cloetta AB, B | | | Sweden | | | | 11,664,600 | | | | 37,122,995 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure 3.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Elior Group SA | | | France | | | | 3,294,600 | | | | 53,947,096 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Insurance 9.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Arch Capital Group Ltd. | | | United States | | | | 1,340,721 | | | | 40,972,434 | |
Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. | | | Canada | | | | 114,700 | | | | 64,651,014 | |
RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. | | | United States | | | | 221,600 | | | | 29,217,960 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 134,841,408 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail 1.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Dustin Group AB | | | Sweden | | | | 1,850,600 | | | | 19,063,258 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Internet Software & Services 4.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a 58.com Inc., ADR | | | China | | | | 821,000 | | | | 55,220,460 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Leisure Products 5.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. | | | Japan | | | | 1,605,900 | | | | 64,129,716 | |
Beneteau SA | | | France | | | | 375,319 | | | | 6,171,961 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 70,301,677 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Machinery 2.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Zardoya Otis SA | | | Spain | | | | 3,149,108 | | | | 30,128,548 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Marine 7.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
b Clarkson PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 1,798,229 | | | | 60,202,821 | |
a,b Diana Shipping Inc. | | | United States | | | | 8,027,750 | | | | 36,124,875 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 96,327,696 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 31 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country | | | Shares | | | Value | |
| |
Common Stocks (continued) | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Media 3.7% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Liberty Latin America Ltd. | | | Chile | | | | 957,300 | | | $ | 18,533,328 | |
a Liberty Latin America Ltd., A | | | Chile | | | | 1,690,100 | | | | 32,247,108 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 50,780,436 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Metals & Mining 2.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Straits Trading Co. Ltd. | | | Singapore | | | | 18,223,100 | | | | 27,451,486 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pharmaceuticals 0.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Haw Par Corp. Ltd. | | | Singapore | | | | 642,100 | | | | 6,511,357 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Professional Services 4.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
PageGroup PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 5,576,566 | | | | 43,819,021 | |
SThree PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 4,069,860 | | | | 18,006,986 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 61,826,007 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Real Estate Management & Development 7.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Hang Lung Group Ltd. | | | Hong Kong | | | | 16,144,000 | | | | 47,717,675 | |
Kennedy-Wilson Holdings Inc. | | | United States | | | | 2,593,758 | | | | 54,209,542 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 101,927,217 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Tobacco 4.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Scandinavian Tobacco Group AS | | | Denmark | | | | 3,446,373 | | | | 56,100,601 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Trading Companies & Distributors 3.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Grafton Group PLC, units consisting of A shares and C shares | | | United Kingdom | | | | 5,308,432 | | | | 53,385,916 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Common Stocks (Cost $1,208,016,683) | | | | | | | | | | | 1,364,530,747 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | Principal
Amount | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Short Term Investments (Cost $14,000,000) 1.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
Time Deposits 1.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Royal Bank Of Canada, 1.85%, 8/01/18 | | | United States | | | $ | 14,000,000 | | | | 14,000,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Investments (Cost $1,222,016,683) 100.0% | | | | | | | | | | | 1,378,530,747 | |
Other Assets, less Liabilities 0.0%† | | | | | | | | | | | 560,809 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Assets 100.0% | | | | | | | | | | $ | 1,379,091,556 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
See Abbreviations on page 47.
†Rounds to less than 0.1% of net assets.
aNon-income producing.
bSee Note 8 regarding holdings of 5% voting securities.
| | | | |
32 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Financial Statements
Statements of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2018
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
| |
| | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | |
Investments in securities: | | | | | | | | |
Cost - Unaffiliated issuers | | | $426,133,959 | | | | $1,091,538,554 | |
Cost -Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f and 8) | | | 31,353,762 | | | | 130,478,129 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Value - Unaffiliated issuers | | | $541,480,296 | | | | $1,249,895,433 | |
Value - Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f and 8) | | | 31,353,762 | | | | 128,635,314 | |
Cash | | | — | | | | 227,605 | |
Receivables: | | | | | | | | |
Investment securities sold | | | — | | | | 1,068,725 | |
Capital shares sold | | | 6,341,559 | | | | 576,709 | |
Dividends | | | 743,666 | | | | 2,435,038 | |
European Union tax reclaims | | | 47,417 | | | | 971,518 | |
Other assets | | | 205 | | | | 827 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Total assets | | | 579,966,905 | | | | 1,383,811,169 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Liabilities: | | | | | | | | |
Payables: | | | | | | | | |
Investment securities purchased | | | 16,256,631 | | | | 2,407,782 | |
Capital shares redeemed | | | 543,638 | | | | 797,897 | |
Management fees | | | 225,928 | | | | 1,102,012 | |
Distribution fees | | | 51,578 | | | | 46,774 | |
Transfer agent fees | | | 28,305 | | | | 206,670 | |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | | | 79,296 | | | | 158,478 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Total liabilities | | | 17,185,376 | | | | 4,719,613 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net assets, at value | | | $562,781,529 | | | | $1,379,091,556 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net assets consist of: | | | | | | | | |
Paid-in capital | | | $435,715,489 | | | | $1,235,705,896 | |
Undistributed net investment income | | | 2,522,510 | | | | — | |
Distributions in excess of net investment income | | | — | | | | (27,974,475 | ) |
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | 115,334,544 | | | | 156,492,402 | |
Accumulated net realized gain (loss) | | | 9,208,986 | | | | 14,867,733 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net assets, at value | | | $562,781,529 | | | | $1,379,091,556 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 33 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Statements of Assets and Liabilities (continued)
July 31, 2018
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
| |
Class A: | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | | $161,607,411 | | | | $142,505,017 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 10,556,731 | | | | 7,241,781 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value per sharea | | | $15.31 | | | | $19.68 | |
| | | | |
Maximum offering price per share (net asset value per share ÷ 94.25%) | | | $16.24 | | | | $20.88 | |
| | | | |
Class C: | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | | $22,541,796 | | | | $19,183,626 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 1,529,118 | | | | 987,879 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per sharea | | | $14.74 | | | | $19.42 | |
| | | | |
Class R: | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | | $1,085,551 | | | | $3,449,820 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 71,369 | | | | 174,896 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share | | | $15.21 | | | | $19.72 | |
| | | | |
Class R6: | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | | $83,292,312 | | | | $450,644,590 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 5,428,809 | | | | 22,833,575 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share | | | $15.34 | | | | $19.74 | |
| | | | |
Advisor Class: | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | | $294,254,459 | | | | $763,308,503 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 19,199,908 | | | | 38,679,146 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share | | | $15.33 | | | | $19.73 | |
| | | | |
aRedemption price is equal to net asset value less contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable.
| | | | |
34 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Statements of Operations
for the year ended July 31, 2018
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
| |
Investment income: | | | | | | | | |
Dividends: (net of foreign taxes)* | | | | | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | | $ 6,185,986 | | | | $ 44,345,529 | |
Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f and 8) | | | 174,418 | | | | 7,832,534 | |
Interest: | | | | | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | | — | | | | 321,292 | |
Other income (Note 1c) | | | — | | | | 508,033 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Total investment income | | | 6,360,404 | | | | 53,007,388 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Expenses: | | | | | | | | |
Management fees (Note 3a) | | | 3,063,816 | | | | 13,618,052 | |
Distribution fees: (Note 3c) | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | 326,730 | | | | 387,553 | |
Class C | | | 142,925 | | | | 212,953 | |
Class R | | | 2,801 | | | | 18,098 | |
Transfer agent fees: (Note 3e) | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | 244,646 | | | | 247,537 | |
Class C | | | 26,770 | | | | 32,653 | |
Class R | | | 1,110 | | | | 5,551 | |
Class R6 | | | 15,109 | | | | 79,611 | |
Advisor Class | | | 366,392 | | | | 1,177,936 | |
Custodian fees (Note 4) | | | 41,803 | | | | 180,052 | |
Reports to shareholders | | | 21,297 | | | | 50,304 | |
Registration and filing fees | | | 102,551 | | | | 104,961 | |
Professional fees | | | 70,219 | | | | 101,267 | |
Trustees’ fees and expenses | | | 14,421 | | | | 57,084 | |
Other | | | 20,770 | | | | 41,797 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Total expenses | | | 4,461,360 | | | | 16,315,409 | |
Expense reductions (Note 4) | | | (169 | ) | | | (1,248 | ) |
Expenses waived/paid by affiliates (Note 3f and 3g) | | | (498,597 | ) | | | — | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net expenses | | | 3,962,594 | | | | 16,314,161 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net investment income | | | 2,397,810 | | | | 36,693,227 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Realized and unrealized gains (losses): | | | | | | | | |
Net realized gain (loss) from: | | | | | | | | |
Investments: | | | | | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | | 35,444,730 | | | | 84,889,482 | |
Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f and 8) | | | — | | | | (45,019,766 | ) |
Foreign currency transactions | | | 78,197 | | | | (316,868 | ) |
| | | | |
| | |
Net realized gain (loss) | | | 35,522,927 | | | | 39,552,848 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | | | | | | | | |
Investments: | | | | | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | | 20,978,280 | | | | (41,426,595 | ) |
Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f and 8) | | | — | | | | 30,627,004 | |
Translation of other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | | | (35,132 | ) | | | (31,926 | ) |
| | | | |
| | |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | 20,943,148 | | | | (10,831,517 | ) |
| | | | |
| | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | | | 56,466,075 | | | | 28,721,331 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | | | $58,863,885 | | | | $ 65,414,558 | |
| | | | |
| | |
*Foreign taxes withheld on dividends | | | $ 482,781 | | | | $ 3,034,218 | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 35 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin International Growth Fund | | | Franklin International
Small Cap Growth Fund | |
| | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, | | | Year Ended July 31, | |
| | | | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017 | | | 2018 | | | 2017 | |
| |
Increase (decrease) in net assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Operations: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | $ 2,397,810 | | | | $ 1,939,134 | | | | $ 36,693,227 | | | | $ 16,874,048 | |
Net realized gain (loss) | | | 35,522,927 | | | | (3,156,816 | ) | | | 39,552,848 | | | | 70,195,707 | |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | 20,943,148 | | | | 62,884,538 | | | | (10,831,517 | ) | | | 240,225,188 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | | | 58,863,885 | | | | 61,666,856 | | | | 65,414,558 | | | | 327,294,943 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Distributions to shareholders from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | — | | | | (841,402 | ) | | | (9,363,942 | ) | | | (1,425,763 | ) |
Class C | | | — | | | | — | | | | (1,102,389 | ) | | | (25,457 | ) |
Class R | | | (735 | ) | | | (295 | ) | | | (196,983 | ) | | | (24,719 | ) |
Class R6 | | | (390,120 | ) | | | (527,530 | ) | | | (30,175,573 | ) | | | (5,916,833 | ) |
Advisor Class | | | (887,066 | ) | | | (949,579 | ) | | | (45,382,451 | ) | | | (7,468,726 | ) |
Net realized gains: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | (1,015,218 | ) | | | — | | | | (4,408,619 | ) | | | (10,725,449 | ) |
Class C | | | (152,224 | ) | | | — | | | | (596,849 | ) | | | (1,533,621 | ) |
Class R | | | (5,964 | ) | | | — | | | | (97,175 | ) | | | (283,306 | ) |
Class R6 | | | (750,475 | ) | | | — | | | | (13,385,202 | ) | | | (29,674,221 | ) |
Advisor Class. | | | (2,184,169 | ) | | | — | | | | (20,534,372 | ) | | | (45,321,273 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Total distributions to shareholders | | | (5,385,971 | ) | | | (2,318,806 | ) | | | (125,243,555 | ) | | | (102,399,368 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Capital share transactions: (Note 2) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | (42,310,630 | ) | | | (14,875,113 | ) | | | (11,766,717 | ) | | | (33,815,434 | ) |
Class C | | | 12,201,180 | | | | 687,333 | | | | (2,131,185 | ) | | | (4,027,645 | ) |
Class R | | | 651,154 | | | | 16,119 | | | | 6,437 | | | | (1,705,023 | ) |
Class R6 | | | 20,447,819 | | | | (75,081,157 | ) | | | (21,574,001 | ) | | | 29,575,056 | |
Advisor Class | | | 121,288,828 | | | | 16,565,815 | | | | 45,664,816 | | | | (194,340,783 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Total capital share transactions | | | 112,278,351 | | | | (72,687,003 | ) | | | 10,199,350 | | | | (204,313,829 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | | | 165,756,265 | | | | (13,338,953 | ) | | | (49,629,647 | ) | | | 20,581,746 | |
Net assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Beginning of year | | | 397,025,264 | | | | 410,364,217 | | | | 1,428,721,203 | | | | 1,408,139,457 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
End of year | | | $562,781,529 | | | | $397,025,264 | | | | $1,379,091,556 | | | | $1,428,721,203 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Undistributed net investment income included in net assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
End of year | | | $ 2,522,510 | | | | $ 1,324,424 | | | | $ — | | | | $ 2,798,817 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Distributions in excess of net investment income included in net assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
End of year | | | $ — | | | | $ — | | | | $ (27,974,475 | ) | | | $ — | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
36 | | Annual Report | | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Notes to Financial Statements
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies
Franklin Global Trust (Trust) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) as an open-end management investment company, consisting of four separate funds, two of which are included in this report (Funds) and applies the specialized accounting and reporting guidance in U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP). The Funds offer five classes of shares: Class A, Class C, Class R, Class R6 and Advisor Class. Each class of shares may differ by its initial sales load, contingent deferred sales charges, voting rights on matters affecting a single class, its exchange privilege and fees due to differing arrangements for distribution and transfer agent fees. Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund was closed to new investors with limited exceptions effective June 3, 2013.
The following summarizes the Funds’ significant accounting policies.
a. Financial Instrument Valuation
The Funds’ investments in financial instruments are carried at fair value daily. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The Funds calculate the net asset value (NAV) per share each business day as of 4 p.m. Eastern time or the regularly scheduled close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), whichever is earlier. Under compliance policies and procedures approved by the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the Board), the Funds’ administrator has responsibility for oversight of valuation, including leading the cross-functional Valuation Committee (VC). The VC provides administration and oversight of the Funds’ valuation policies and procedures, which are approved annually by the Board. Among other things, these procedures allow the Funds to utilize independent pricing services, quotations from securities and financial instrument dealers, and other market sources to determine fair value.
Equity securities listed on an exchange or on the NASDAQ National Market System are valued at the last quoted sale price or the official closing price of the day, respectively. Foreign equity securities are valued as of the close of trading on the foreign stock exchange on which the security is primarily traded, or as of 4 p.m. Eastern time. The value is then converted into its U.S. dollar equivalent at the foreign exchange rate in effect at 4 p.m. Eastern time on the day that the value of the security is determined. Over-the-counter (OTC) securities are
valued within the range of the most recent quoted bid and ask prices. Securities that trade in multiple markets or on multiple exchanges are valued according to the broadest and most representative market. Certain equity securities are valued based upon fundamental characteristics or relationships to similar securities.
Investments in open-end mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV. Investments in time deposits are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
The Funds have procedures to determine the fair value of financial instruments for which market prices are not reliable or readily available. Under these procedures, the VC convenes on a regular basis to review such financial instruments and considers a number of factors, including significant unobservable valuation inputs, when arriving at fair value. The VC primarily employs a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the investment to determine the fair value of the investment. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the investment are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the investments. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuations of such investments, the fair values may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had an active market existed. The VC employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches including a regular review of key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing or disposition analysis, and reviews of any related market activity.
Trading in securities on foreign securities stock exchanges and OTC markets may be completed before 4 p.m. Eastern time. In addition, trading in certain foreign markets may not take place on every Funds’ business day. Occasionally, events occur between the time at which trading in a foreign security is completed and 4 p.m. Eastern time that might call into question the reliability of the value of a portfolio security held by the Fund. As a result, differences may arise between the value of the Funds’ portfolio securities as determined at the foreign market close and the latest indications of value at 4 p.m. Eastern time. In order to minimize the potential for these differences, the VC monitors price movements following the close of trading in foreign stock markets through a series of country specific market proxies (such as baskets of American
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 37 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
a. Financial Instrument Valuation (continued)
Depositary Receipts, futures contracts and exchange traded funds). These price movements are measured against established trigger thresholds for each specific market proxy to assist in determining if an event has occurred that may call into question the reliability of the values of the foreign securities held by the Funds. If such an event occurs, the securities may be valued using fair value procedures, which may include the use of independent pricing services.
When the last day of the reporting period is a non-business day, certain foreign markets may be open on those days that the Funds’ NAV is not calculated, which could result in differences between the value of the Funds’ portfolio securities on the last business day and the last calendar day of the reporting period. Any significant security valuation changes due to an open foreign market are adjusted and reflected by the Funds for financial reporting purposes.
b. Foreign Currency Translation
Portfolio securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the exchange rate of such currencies against U.S. dollars on the date of valuation. The Funds may enter into foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of securities, income and expense items denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect on the transaction date. Portfolio securities and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies contain risks that those currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Occasionally, events may impact the availability or reliability of foreign exchange rates used to convert the U.S. dollar equivalent value. If such an event occurs, the foreign exchange rate will be valued at fair value using procedures established and approved by the Board.
The Funds do not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices on securities held. Such changes are included in net realized and unrealized gain or loss from investments in the Statements of Operations.
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 recorded amounts of dividends, interest, and foreign withholding taxes and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in foreign exchange rates on foreign denominated assets and liabilities other than investments in securities held at the end of the reporting period.
c. Income and Deferred Taxes
It is each Fund’s policy to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code. Each Fund intends to distribute to shareholders substantially all of its taxable income and net realized gains to relieve it from federal income and excise taxes. As a result, no provision for U.S. federal income taxes is required.
The Funds may be subject to foreign taxation related to income received, capital gains on the sale of securities and certain foreign currency transactions in the foreign jurisdictions in which the Funds invest. Foreign taxes, if any, are recorded based on the tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign markets in which the Funds invest. When a capital gain tax is determined to apply, certain or all Funds record an estimated deferred tax liability in an amount that would be payable if the securities were disposed of on the valuation date.
As a result of several court cases, in certain countries across the European Union, certain or all Funds filed additional tax reclaims for previously withheld taxes on dividends earned in those countries (EU reclaims). These additional filings are subject to various administrative proceedings by the local jurisdictions’ tax authorities within the European Union, as well as a number of related judicial proceedings. Income recognized, if any, for EU reclaims is reflected as other income in the Statements of Operations and any related receivable, if any, is reflected as European Union tax reclaims in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. When uncertainty exists as to the ultimate resolution of these proceedings, the likelihood of receipt of these EU reclaims, and the potential timing of payment, no amounts are reflected in the financial statements. For U.S. income tax purposes, EU reclaims received by the Funds, if any, reduce the amounts of foreign taxes Fund shareholders can use as tax credits in their individual income tax returns.
| | | | |
38 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Each Fund may recognize an income tax liability related to its uncertain tax positions under U.S. GAAP when the uncertain tax position has a less than 50% probability that it will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities based on its technical merits. As of July 31, 2018, each Fund has determined that no tax liability is required in its financial statements related to uncertain tax positions for any open tax years (or expected to be taken in future tax years). Open tax years are those that remain subject to examination and are based on the statute of limitations in each jurisdiction in which the Fund invests.
d. Security Transactions, Investment Income, Expenses and Distributions
Security transactions are accounted for on trade date. Realized gains and losses on security transactions are determined on a specific identification basis. Interest income and estimated expenses are accrued daily. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date except for certain dividends from securities where the dividend rate is not available. In such cases, the dividend is recorded as soon as the information is received by the Funds. Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributable earnings are determined according to income tax regulations (tax basis) and may differ from earnings recorded in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These differences may be permanent or temporary. Permanent differences are reclassified among capital accounts to reflect their tax character. These reclassifications have no impact on net assets or the results of operations. Temporary differences are not reclassified, as they may reverse in subsequent periods.
Common expenses incurred by the Trust are allocated among the Funds based on the ratio of net assets of each Fund to the combined net assets of the Trust or based on the ratio of number
of shareholders of each Fund to the combined number of shareholders of the Trust. Fund specific expenses are charged directly to the Fund that incurred the expense.
Realized and unrealized gains and losses and net investment income, excluding class specific expenses, are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class. Differences in per share distributions by class are generally due to differences in class specific expenses.
e. Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
f. Guarantees and Indemnifications
Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified by the Trust against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust, on behalf of the Funds, enters into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Trust expects the risk of loss to be remote.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 39 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2. Shares of Beneficial Interest
At July 31, 2018, there were an unlimited number of shares authorized (without par value). Transactions in the Funds’ shares were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| |
| Franklin International
Growth Fund |
| |
| Franklin International
Small Cap Growth Fund |
|
| | | | |
| | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Shares | | | Amount | |
| |
| | | | |
Class A Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2018 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 9,784,621 | | | $ | 143,206,376 | | | | 955,860 | | | $ | 19,705,489 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 72,096 | | | | 1,010,060 | | | | 684,632 | | | | 13,405,092 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (13,385,509 | ) | | | (186,527,066 | ) | | | (2,226,384 | ) | | | (44,877,298 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | (3,528,792 | ) | | $ | (42,310,630 | ) | | | (585,892 | ) | | $ | (11,766,717 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2017 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 5,449,763 | | | $ | 62,616,764 | | | | 796,265 | | | $ | 14,658,914 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 21,796 | | | | 231,036 | | | | 734,034 | | | | 11,840,007 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (6,744,103 | ) | | | (77,722,913 | ) | | | (3,387,572 | ) | | | (60,314,355 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | (1,272,544 | ) | | $ | (14,875,113 | ) | | | (1,857,273 | ) | | $ | (33,815,434 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Class C Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2018 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 1,057,682 | | | $ | 15,193,412 | | | | 47,765 | | | $ | 973,590 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 11,234 | | | | 152,224 | | | | 83,881 | | | | 1,628,141 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (219,449 | ) | | | (3,144,456 | ) | | | (233,854 | ) | | | (4,732,916 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 849,467 | | | $ | 12,201,180 | | | | (102,208 | ) | | $ | (2,131,185 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2017 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 204,694 | | | $ | 2,385,416 | | | | 57,747 | | | $ | 1,034,118 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | — | | | | — | | | | 91,654 | | | | 1,467,346 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (153,658 | ) | | | (1,698,083 | ) | | | (370,069 | ) | | | (6,529,109 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 51,036 | | | $ | 687,333 | | | | (220,668 | ) | | $ | (4,027,645 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Class R Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2018 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 58,200 | | | $ | 877,018 | | | | 43,438 | | | $ | 897,263 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 481 | | | | 6,699 | | | | 14,962 | | | | 294,158 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (15,492 | ) | | | (232,563 | ) | | | (57,420 | ) | | | (1,184,984 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 43,189 | | | $ | 651,154 | | | | 980 | | | $ | 6,437 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2017 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 3,773 | | | $ | 43,390 | | | | 29,482 | | | $ | 538,817 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 28 | | | | 295 | | | | 19,026 | | | | 308,025 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (2,356 | ) | | | (27,566 | ) | | | (144,248 | ) | | | (2,551,865 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 1,445 | | | $ | 16,119 | | | | (95,740 | ) | | $ | (1,705,023 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
40 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin International | | | Franklin International | |
| | | Growth Fund | | | | Small Cap Growth Fund | |
| | | | |
| | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Shares | | | Amount | |
| |
| | | | |
Class R6 Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2018 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 1,805,337 | | | $ | 27,141,141 | | | | 1,684,517 | | | $ | 34,660,190 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 69,962 | | | | 979,475 | | | | 2,208,458 | | | | 43,263,696 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (546,938 | ) | | | (7,672,797 | ) | | | (4,864,253 | ) | | | (99,497,887 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 1,328,361 | | | $ | 20,447,819 | | | | (971,278 | ) | | $ | (21,574,001 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2017 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 318,411 | | | $ | 3,760,600 | | | | 5,386,087 | | | $ | 94,671,471 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 44,509 | | | | 473,134 | | | | 2,201,724 | | | | 35,535,834 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (7,281,023 | ) | | | (79,314,891 | ) | | | (5,555,198 | ) | | | (100,632,249 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | (6,918,103 | ) | | $ | (75,081,157 | ) | | | 2,032,613 | | | $ | 29,575,056 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Advisor Class Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2018 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 8,845,618 | | | $ | 133,146,839 | | | | 6,661,969 | | | $ | 135,690,295 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 151,034 | | | | 2,114,473 | | | | 3,054,312 | | | | 59,895,053 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (966,561 | ) | | | (13,972,484 | ) | | | (7,304,205 | ) | | | (149,920,532 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 8,030,091 | | | $ | 121,288,828 | | | | 2,412,076 | | | $ | 45,664,816 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Year ended July 31, 2017 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 2,984,830 | | | $ | 36,087,649 | | | | 7,102,289 | | | $ | 127,985,896 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 6,201 | | | | 65,975 | | | | 3,058,640 | | | | 49,397,037 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (1,741,768 | ) | | | (19,587,809 | ) | | | (20,925,836 | ) | | | (371,723,716 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 1,249,263 | | | $ | 16,565,815 | | | | (10,764,907 | ) | | $ | (194,340,783 | ) |
| | | | |
3. Transactions with Affiliates
Franklin Resources, Inc. is the holding company for various subsidiaries that together are referred to as Franklin Templeton Investments. Certain officers and trustees of the Trust are also officers and/or directors of the following subsidiaries:
| | |
| Subsidiary | | Affiliation |
Franklin Advisers, Inc. (Advisers) | | Investment manager |
Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC (FT Institutional) | | Investment manager |
Franklin Templeton Services, LLC (FT Services) | | Administrative manager |
Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) | | Principal underwriter |
Franklin Templeton Investor Services, LLC (Investor Services) | | Transfer agent |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 41 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
3. Transactions with Affiliates (continued)
a. Management Fees
Franklin International Growth Fund pays an investment management fee to FT Institutional based on the average daily net assets of the Fund as follows:
| | |
| Annualized Fee Rate | | Net Assets |
| 0.760% | | Up to and including $500 million |
| 0.740% | | Over $500 million, up to and including $1 billion |
| 0.720% | | Over $1 billion, up to and including $1.5 billion |
| 0.700% | | Over $1.5 billion, up to and including $6.5 billion |
| 0.675% | | Over $6.5 billion, up to and including $11.5 billion |
| 0.655% | | Over $11.5 billion, up to and including $16.5 billion |
| 0.635% | | Over $16.5 billion, up to and including $19 billion |
| 0.615% | | Over $19 billion, up to and including $21.5 billion |
| 0.600% | | In excess of $21.5 billion |
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the gross effective investment management fee rate was 0.759% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund pays an investment management fee to Advisers of 0.950% per year of the average daily net assets of the Fund.
Under a subadvisory agreement, FT Institutional, an affiliate of Advisers, provides subadvisory services to Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund. The subadvisory fee is paid by Advisers based on the Fund’s average daily net assets, and is not an additional expense of the Fund.
b. Administrative Fees
Under an agreement with FT Institutional and Advisers, FT Services provides administrative services to the Funds. The fee is paid by FT Institutional and Advisers based on each of the Fund’s average daily net assets, and is not an additional expense of the Funds.
c. Distribution Fees
The Board has adopted distribution plans for each share class, with the exception of Class R6 and Advisor Class shares, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Funds’ Class A reimbursement distribution plans, the Funds reimburse Distributors for costs incurred in connection with the servicing, sale and distribution of each Fund’s shares up to the maximum annual plan rate for each class. Under the Class A reimbursement distribution plans, costs exceeding the maximum for the current plan year cannot be reimbursed in subsequent periods. In addition, under the Funds’ Class C and R compensation distribution plans, the Funds pay Distributors for costs incurred in connection with the servicing, sale and distribution of each Fund’s shares up to the maximum annual plan rate for each class. The plan year, for purposes of monitoring compliance with the maximum annual plan rates, is February 1 through January 31 for each Fund.
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The maximum annual plan rates, based on the average daily net assets, for each class, are as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
| | |
Reimbursement Plans: | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | 0.35% | | | | 0.35% | |
| | |
Compensation Plans: | | | | | | | | |
Class C | | | 1.00% | | | | 1.00% | |
Class R | | | 0.50% | | | | 0.50% | |
The Board has set the current rate at 0.25% per year for Class A shares, until further notice and approval by the Board.
d. Sales Charges/Underwriting Agreements
Front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSC) do not represent expenses of the Funds. These charges are deducted from the proceeds of sales of fund shares prior to investment or from redemption proceeds prior to remittance, as applicable. Distributors has advised the Funds of the following commission transactions related to the sales and redemptions of the Funds’ shares for the year:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
| | |
Sales charges retained net of commissions paid to unaffiliated brokers/dealers | | | $162,593 | | | | $11,097 | |
| | |
CDSC retained | | | $ 2,112 | | | | $ 911 | |
e. Transfer Agent Fees
Each class of shares pays transfer agent fees to Investor Services for its performance of shareholder servicing obligations. Effective November 1, 2017, the fees are based on an annualized asset based fee of 0.02% plus a transaction based fee. Prior to November 1, 2017, the fees were account based fees that varied based on fund or account type. In addition, each class reimburses Investor Services for out of pocket expenses incurred and, except for Class R6, reimburses shareholder servicing fees paid to third parties. These fees are allocated daily based upon their relative proportion of such classes’ aggregate net assets. Class R6 pays Investor Services transfer agent fees specific to that class.
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the Funds paid transfer agent fees as noted in the Statements of Operations of which the following amounts were retained by Investor Services:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
Transfer agent fees | | | $383,988 | | | | $656,582 | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 43 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
3. Transactions with Affiliates (continued)
f. Investments in Affiliated Management Investment Companies
Certain or all Funds invest in one or more affiliated management investment companies for purposes other than exercising a controlling influence over the management or policies. Management fees paid by the Funds are waived on assets invested in the affiliated management investment companies, as noted in the Statements of Operations, in an amount not to exceed the management and administrative fees paid directly or indirectly by each affiliate. During the year ended July 31, 2018, investments in affiliated management investment companies were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Number of
Shares Held
at Beginning
of Year | | | Gross
Additions | | | Gross
Reductions | | | Number of
Shares
Held at End
of Year | | | Value
at End
of Year | | | Dividend
Income | | | Realized
Gain
(Loss) | | | Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation) | |
Franklin International Growth Fund | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Non-Controlled Affiliates | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio, 1.57% | | | 12,826,423 | | | | 194,314,597 | | | | (175,787,258 | ) | | | 31,353,762 | | | $ | 31,353,762 | | | | $174,418 | | | | $ — | | | | $ — | |
| | | | | | | | |
g. Waiver and Expense Reimbursements
Effective February 1, 2018, FT Institutional and Investor Services have contractually agreed in advance to waive or limit their respective fees and to assume as their own expense certain expenses otherwise payable by Franklin International Growth Fund so that the expenses (excluding distribution fees and acquired fund fees and expenses) for Class A, Class C, Class R and Advisor Class of the Fund do not exceed 0.86%, and Class R6 does not exceed 0.63% based on the average net assets of each class (other than certain non-routine expenses or costs, including those relating to litigation, indemnification, reorganizations, and liquidations) until November 30, 2019. Total expenses waived or paid are not subject to recapture subsequent to the Fund’s fiscal year end. Prior to February 1, 2018, expenses for Class A, Class C, Class R and Advisor Class were limited to 1.00% and Class R6 was limited to 0.77%. Prior to December 1, 2017, expenses for Class R6 were limited to 0.82%.
h. Other Affiliated Transactions
At July 31, 2018, one or more of the funds in Franklin Fund Allocator Series owned 18.8% of Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund’s outstanding shares.
4. Expense Offset Arrangement
The Funds have entered into an arrangement with their custodian whereby credits realized as a result of uninvested cash balances are used to reduce a portion of the Funds’ custodian expenses. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the custodian fees were reduced as noted in the Statements of Operations.
5. Income Taxes
During the year ended July 31, 2018, Franklin International Growth Fund utilized $20,418,669 of capital loss carryforwards.
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended July 31, 2018 and 2017, was as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | Franklin International Growth Fund | | Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
|
Distributions paid from: | | | | | | | | |
Ordinary income | | $1,277,910 | | $2,318,806 | | $ 93,732,341 | | $ 80,820,430 |
| | | | |
44 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| |
| Franklin International
Growth Fund |
| |
| Franklin International
Small Cap Growth Fund |
|
| | | | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017 | | | 2018 | | | 2017 | |
| |
Long term capital gain | | | 4,108,061 | | | | — | | | | 31,511,214 | | | | 21,578,938 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| | $ | 5,385,971 | | | $ | 2,318,806 | | | $ | 125,243,555 | | | $ | 102,399,368 | |
| | | | |
At July 31, 2018, the cost of investments, net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), undistributed ordinary income and undistributed long term capital gains for income tax purposes were as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund |
| | |
Cost of investments | | $ | 459,768,549 | | | $ | 1,268,107,821 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Unrealized appreciation | | $ | 122,908,471 | | | $ | 241,017,033 | |
Unrealized depreciation | | | (9,842,962 | ) | | | (130,594,107 | ) |
| | | | |
| | |
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | $ | 113,065,509 | | | $ | 110,422,926 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Distributable earnings: | | | | | | | | |
Undistributed ordinary income | | $ | 4,263,375 | | | $ | 32,020,605 | |
Undistributed long term capital gains | | | 9,699,348 | | | | — | |
| | | | |
Total distributable earnings | | $ | 13,962,723 | | | $ | 32,020,605 | |
| | | | |
Differences between income and/or capital gains as determined on a book basis and a tax basis are primarily due to differing treatments of passive foreign investment company shares and wash sales.
The Funds utilized a tax accounting practice to treat a portion of the proceeds from capital shares redeemed as a distribution from net investment income and/or realized capital gains.
6. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investments (excluding short term securities) for the year ended July 31, 2018, were as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin
International
Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
Purchases | | | $326,640,859 | | | | $379,819,009 | |
Sales | | | $227,169,743 | | | | $520,908,569 | |
7. Concentration of Risk
Investing in foreign securities may include certain risks and considerations not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities, such as fluctuating currency values and changing local and regional economic, political and social conditions, which may result in greater market volatility. In addition, certain foreign securities may not be as liquid as U.S. securities.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 45 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
8. Holdings of 5% Voting Securities of Portfolio Companies
The 1940 Act defines “affiliated companies” to include investments in portfolio companies in which a fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities. During the year ended July 31, 2018, investments in “affiliated companies” were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Name of Issuer | | Number of
Shares Held
at Beginning
of Year | | | Gross
Additions | | | Gross
Reductions | | | Number of
Shares Held
at End of Year | | | Value at End of Year | | | Dividend
Income | | | Realized
Gain (Loss) | | | Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation) | |
| |
| | | | | |
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
Non-Controlled Affiliates | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Carpetright PLC | | | 6,064,925 | | | | — | | | | (6,064,925 | ) | | | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | (55,686,303 | ) | | | $43,358,294 | |
Clarkson PLC | | | 1,798,229 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,798,229 | | | | 60,202,821 | | | | 1,752,279 | | | | — | | | | (3,192,603 | ) |
Diana Shipping Inc | | | 7,909,500 | | | | 118,250 | | | | — | | | | 8,027,750 | | | | 36,124,875 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 5,040,594 | |
Headlam Group PLC | | | 5,372,888 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 5,372,888 | | | | 32,307,618 | | | | 1,775,042 | | | | — | | | | (9,375,632 | ) |
Irish Residential Properties REIT PLC | | | 28,014,700 | | | | — | | | | (28,014,700 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 827,519 | | | | 10,232,321 | | | | (5,203,649 | ) |
Lar Espana Real Estate Socimi SA | | | 6,357,210 | | | | — | | | | (2,840,600 | ) | | | 3,516,610 | | | | — | a | | | 3,477,694 | | | | 434,216 | | | | — | a |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
Total Affiliated Securities (Value is 9.3% of Net Assets) | | | $ | 128,635,314 | | | $ | 7,832,534 | | | $ | (45,019,766 | ) | | | $30,627,004 | |
| | | | | | | | |
aAs of July 31, 2018, no longer an affiliate.
9. Credit Facility
The Funds, together with other U.S. registered and foreign investment funds (collectively, Borrowers), managed by Franklin Templeton Investments, are borrowers in a joint syndicated senior unsecured credit facility totaling $2 billion (Global Credit Facility) which matures on February 8, 2019. This Global Credit Facility provides a source of funds to the Borrowers for temporary and emergency purposes, including the ability to meet future unanticipated or unusually large redemption requests.
Under the terms of the Global Credit Facility, the Funds shall, in addition to interest charged on any borrowings made by the Funds and other costs incurred by the Funds, pay their share of fees and expenses incurred in connection with the implementation and maintenance of the Global Credit Facility, based upon their relative share of the aggregate net assets of all of the Borrowers, including an annual commitment fee of 0.15% based upon the unused portion of the Global Credit Facility. These fees are reflected in other expenses in the Statements of Operations. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the Funds did not use the Global Credit Facility.
10. Fair Value Measurements
The Funds follow a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and the Funds’ own market assumptions (unobservable inputs). These inputs are used in determining the value of the Funds’ financial instruments and are summarized in the following fair value hierarchy:
| | • | | Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical financial instruments |
| | • | | Level 2 – other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar financial instruments, interest rates, prepayment speed, credit risk, etc.) |
| | • | | Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs (including the Funds’ own assumptions in determining the fair value of financial instruments) |
The input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with financial instruments at that level.
| | | | |
46 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For movements between the levels within the fair value hierarchy, the Funds have adopted a policy of recognizing the transfers as of the date of the underlying event which caused the movement.
A summary of inputs used as of July 31, 2018, in valuing the Funds’ assets carried at fair value, is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Level 1 | | | Level 2 | | | Level 3 | | | Total | |
Franklin International Growth Fund | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Securities:a | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity Investments | | $ | 541,480,296 | | | $ | — | | | $ | —b | | | $ | 541,480,296 | |
Short Term Investments | | | 31,353,762 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 31,353,762 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Total Investments in Securities | | $ | 572,834,058 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 572,834,058 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Securities:a | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity Investments | | $ | 1,364,530,747 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,364,530,747 | |
Short Term Investments | | | — | | | | 14,000,000 | | | | — | | | | 14,000,000 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Total Investments in Securities | | $ | 1,364,530,747 | | | $ | 14,000,000 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,378,530,747 | |
| | | | |
aFor detailed categories, see the accompanying Statement of Investments.
bIncludes securities determined to have no value at July 31, 2018.
A reconciliation of assets in which Level 3 inputs are used in determining fair value is presented when there are significant Level 3 financial instruments at the end of the period.
11. Subsequent Events
The Funds have evaluated subsequent events through the issuance of the financial statements and determined that no events have occurred that require disclosure, except for the following:
On February 27, 2018, the Board approved an automatic conversion feature for Class C that will convert shareholders’ Class C shares into Class A shares after they have been held for 10 years. The conversion feature will become effective on a future date prior to the calendar year end of 2018. Further details are disclosed in the Funds’ Prospectus.
On May 18, 2018, the Board approved changes to certain front-end sales charges and dealer commissions on Class A shares. The changes will become effective on or about September 10, 2018. Further details are disclosed in the Funds’ Prospectus.
Abbreviations
|
| Selected Portfolio |
ADR American Depositary Receipt |
REIT Real Estate Investment Trust |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 47 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of Franklin Global Trust and Shareholders of Franklin International Growth Fund and Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund
Opinions on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the statements of investments, of Franklin International Growth Fund and Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Funds”) as of July 31, 2018, the related statements of operations for the year ended July 31, 2018, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended July 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended July 31, 2018 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of July 31, 2018, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended July 31, 2018 and each of the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended July 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinions
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements 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 Funds 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 of these financial statements 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 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, 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. 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. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Francisco, California
September 18, 2018
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in the Franklin Templeton funds since 1948.
| | | | |
48 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Tax Information (unaudited)
Under Section 852(b)(3)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code, the Funds hereby report the maximum amount allowable but no less than the following amounts as long term capital gain dividends for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin International Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
| | |
| | | $4,313,185 | | | | $31,815,232 | |
Under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code, Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund hereby reports the maximum amount allowable but no less than $9,094,068 as a short term capital gain dividend for purposes of the tax imposed under Section 871(a)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.
Under Section 854(b)(1)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code, the Funds hereby report the maximum amount allowable but no less than the following amounts as qualified dividends for purposes of the maximum rate under Section 1(h)(11) of the Internal Revenue Code for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Franklin International Growth Fund | | | Franklin
International
Small Cap
Growth Fund | |
| | |
| | | $6,071,753 | | | | $27,853,164 | |
Distributions, including qualified dividend income, paid during calendar year 2018 will be reported to shareholders on Form 1099-DIV by mid-February 2019. Shareholders are advised to check with their tax advisors for information on the treatment of these amounts on their individual income tax returns.
At July 31, 2017, more than 50% of the Funds’ total assets were invested in securities of foreign issuers. In most instances, foreign taxes were withheld from income paid to the Funds on these investments. As shown in the table below, the Funds hereby report to shareholders the foreign source income and foreign taxes paid, pursuant to Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code. This written statement will allow shareholders of record on December 14, 2017, to treat their proportionate share of foreign taxes paid by the Funds as having been paid directly by them. The shareholder shall consider these amounts as foreign taxes paid in the tax year in which they receive the Fund distribution.
The following tables provide a detailed analysis of foreign tax paid, foreign source income, and foreign source qualified dividends as reported by the Funds, to Class A, Class C, Class R, Class R6 and Advisor Class shareholders of record.
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Class | | Foreign Tax Paid
Per Share | | | Foreign Source
Income Per Share | | | Foreign Source Qualified
Dividends Per Share | |
| | | |
Franklin International Growth Fund | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | $0.0395 | | | | $0.0385 | | | | $0.0366 | |
Class C | | | $0.0395 | | | | $0.0730 | | | | $0.0694 | |
Class R | | | $0.0395 | | | | $0.1097 | | | | $0.1043 | |
Class R6 | | | $0.0395 | | | | $0.1747 | | | | $0.1662 | |
Advisor Class | | | $0.0395 | | | | $0.1564 | | | | $0.1488 | |
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | $0.0168 | | | | $0.3910 | | | | $0.2404 | |
Class C | | | $0.0168 | | | | $0.3330 | | | | $0.2048 | |
Class R | | | $0.0168 | | | | $0.3666 | | | | $0.2253 | |
Class R6 | | | $0.0168 | | | | $0.4196 | | | | $0.2578 | |
Advisor Class | | | $0.0168 | | | | $0.4089 | | | | $0.2514 | |
Foreign Tax Paid Per Share (Column 1) is the amount per share available to you, as a tax credit (assuming you held your shares in the Fund for a minimum of 16 days during the 31-day period beginning 15 days before the ex-dividend date of the Fund’s distribution to which the foreign taxes relate), or, as a tax deduction.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 49 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
TAX INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
Foreign Source Income Per Share (Column 2) is the amount per share of income dividends attributable to foreign securities held by the Fund, plus any foreign taxes withheld on these dividends. The amounts reported include foreign source qualified dividends that have not been adjusted for the rate differential applicable to such dividend income.
Foreign Source Qualified Dividends Per Share (Column 3) is the amount per share of foreign source qualified dividends, plus any foreign taxes withheld on these dividends. These amounts represent the portion of the Foreign Source Income reported to you in column 2 that were derived from qualified foreign securities held by the Fund.
In February 2018, shareholders received Form 1099-DIV which included their share of taxes paid and foreign source income distributed during the calendar year 2017. The Foreign Source Income reported on Form 1099-DIV was not adjusted for the rate differential on foreign source qualified dividend income. Shareholders are advised to check with their tax advisors for information on the treatment of these amounts on their 2017 individual income tax returns.
At July 31, 2018, more than 50% of the Funds’ total assets were invested in securities of foreign issuers. In most instances, foreign taxes were withheld from income paid to the Funds on these investments. The Funds elects to treat foreign taxes paid as allowed under Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code. This election will allow shareholders of record as of the 2018 distribution date, to treat their proportionate share of foreign taxes paid by the Funds as having been paid directly by them. The shareholder shall consider these amounts as foreign taxes paid in the tax year in which they receive the Fund distribution.
1Qualified dividends are taxed at reduced long term capital gains tax rates. In determining the amount of foreign tax credit that may be applied against the U.S. tax liability of individuals receiving foreign source qualified dividends, adjustments may be required to the foreign tax credit limitation calculation to reflect the rate differential applicable to such dividend income. The rules however permit certain individuals to elect not to apply the rate differential adjustments for capital gains and/or dividends for any taxable year. Please consult your tax advisor and the instructions to Form 1116 for more information.
| | | | |
50 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Special Meeting of Shareholders
MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS: OCTOBER 30, 2017 AND RECONVENED ON DECEMBER 15, 2017 AND DECEMBER 29, 2017
(UNAUDITED)
A Special Meeting of Shareholders of Franklin Global Trust was held at the offices of Franklin Templeton Investments, One Franklin Parkway, San Mateo, California on October 30, 2017 and reconvened on December 15, 2017 and December 29, 2017. The purpose of the meeting was to elect Trustees of Franklin Global Trust and to vote on the following proposals: for each Fund, to approve the use of a “manager of managers” structure whereby the Fund’s investment manager would be able to hire and replace subadvisers without shareholder approval and for each Fund, to approve an amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities. At the meeting, (i) the following persons were elected by the shareholders to serve as Trustees of Franklin Global Trust: Harris J. Ashton, Terrence J. Checki, Mary C. Choksi, Edith E. Holiday, Gregory E. Johnson, Rupert H. Johnson, Jr., J. Michael Luttig, Larry D. Thompson, and John B. Wilson and (ii) the proposals to use a “manager of managers” structure and to approve the amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities were approved by shareholders of each Fund. No other business was transacted at the meeting.
In connection with the meeting, management is aware that some shareholders received from the proxy solicitor numerous calls and mailings that may have been distracting. Management is taking steps to ensure that, in the future, for any new shareholder meeting solicitations that occur, such activity is not repeated. Management apologizes for any inconvenience that may have been caused as a result of such calls and mailings.
The results of the voting at the meeting are as follows:
| Proposal 1. | To elect a Board of Trustees: |
| | | | | | | | |
| Name | | For | | | Withheld | |
| |
| | |
Harris J. Ashton | | | 123,597,479 | | | | 3,571,398 | |
| | |
Terrence J. Checki | | | 123,690,572 | | | | 3,478,306 | |
| | |
Mary C. Choksi | | | 123,243,714 | | | | 3,925,163 | |
| | |
Edith E. Holiday | | | 121,178,523 | | | | 5,990,354 | |
| | |
Gregory E. Johnson | | | 123,694,217 | | | | 3,474,660 | |
| | |
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. | | | 123,621,068 | | | | 3,547,808 | |
| | |
J. Michael Luttig | | | 123,705,401 | | | | 3,463,476 | |
| | |
Larry D. Thompson | | | 123,162,505 | | | | 4,006,372 | |
| | |
John B. Wilson | | | 123,573,690 | | | | 3,595,187 | |
Total Trust Shares Outstanding*: 162,995,191
* As of the record date.
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
| Proposal 2. | To approve the use of a “manager of managers” structure whereby the Fund’s investment manager would be able to hire and replace subadvisers without shareholder approval: |
Franklin International Growth Fund
| | | | |
| | | Shares | |
| |
| |
For | | | 22,171,821 | |
| |
Against | | | 124,536 | |
| |
Abstain | | | 85,062 | |
| |
Broker Non-Votes | | | 2,702,652 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Voted | | | 25,084,068 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Outstanding* | | | 29,790,993 | |
| |
| Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund | | | | |
| |
| | | Shares | |
| |
| |
For | | | 46,371,981 | |
| |
Against | | | 2,229,613 | |
| |
Abstain | | | 764,799 | |
| |
Broker Non-Votes | | | 10,292,879 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Voted | | | 59,659,273 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Outstanding* | | | 68,785,113 | |
| Proposal 3. | To approve an amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities: |
Franklin International Growth Fund
| | | | |
| | | Shares | |
| |
| |
For | | | 22,194,974 | |
| |
Against | | | 96,103 | |
| |
Abstain | | | 90,339 | |
| |
Broker Non-Votes | | | 2,702,652 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Voted | | | 25,084,068 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Outstanding* | | | 29,790,993 | |
| |
| Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund | | | | |
| |
| | | Shares | |
| |
| |
For | | | 46,371,981 | |
| |
Against | | | 2,229,613 | |
| |
Abstain | | | 764,799 | |
| |
Broker Non-Votes | | | 10,292,879 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Voted | | | 59,659,273 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Outstanding* | | | 68,785,113 | |
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Board Members and Officers
The name, year of birth and address of the officers and board members, as well as their affiliations, positions held with the Trust, principal occupations during at least the past five years and number of US registered portfolios overseen in the Franklin Templeton Investments fund complex, are shown below. Generally, each board member serves until that person’s successor is elected and qualified.
Independent Board Members
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Harris J. Ashton (1932) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2000 | | 136 | | Bar-S Foods (meat packing company) (1981-2010). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; and formerly, Director, RBC Holdings, Inc. (bank holding company) (until 2002); and President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, General Host Corporation (nursery and craft centers) (until 1998). |
| | | | |
Terrence J. Checki (1945) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since December 2017 | | 112 | | Hess Corporation (exploration of oil and gas) (2014-present). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Member of the Council on Foreign Relations (1996-present); Member of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations (1999-present); member of the Board of Trustees of the Economic Club of New York (2013-present); member of the Board of Trustees of the Foreign Policy Association (2005-present) and member of various other boards of trustees and advisory boards; and formerly, Executive Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and Head of its Emerging Markets and Internal Affairs Group and Member of Management Committee (1995-2014); and Visiting Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (2014). |
| | | | |
Mary C. Choksi (1950) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2014 | | 136 | | Avis Budget Group Inc. (car rental) (2007-present), Omnicom Group Inc. (advertising and marketing communications services) (2011-present) and White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (holding company) (2017-present). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; and formerly, Founder and Senior Advisor, Strategic Investment Group (investment management group) (2015-2017); Founding Partner and Senior Managing Director, Strategic Investment Group (1987-2015); Founding Partner and Managing Director, Emerging Markets Management LLC (investment management firm) (1987-2011); and Loan Officer/Senior Loan Officer/Senior Pension Investment Officer, World Bank Group (international financial institution) (1977-1987). |
| | | | |
Edith E. Holiday (1952) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2000 | | 136 | | Hess Corporation (exploration of oil and gas) (1993-present), Canadian National Railway (railroad) (2001-present), White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (holding company) (2004-present), Santander Consumer USA Holdings, Inc. (consumer finance) (2016-present), RTI International Metals, Inc. (manufacture and distribution of titanium) (1999-2015) and H.J. Heinz Company (processed foods and allied products) (1994-2013). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director or Trustee of various companies and trusts; and formerly, Assistant to the President of the United States and Secretary of the Cabinet (1990-1993); General Counsel to the United States Treasury Department (1989-1990); and Counselor to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and Public Liaison – United States Treasury Department (1988-1989). |
| | | | |
J. Michael Luttig (1954) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2009 | | 136 | | Boeing Capital Corporation (aircraft financing) (2006-2013). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and member of the Executive Council, The Boeing Company (aerospace company) (2006-present); and formerly, Federal Appeals Court Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit (1991-2006). |
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Independent Board Members (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Larry D. Thompson (1945) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2007 | | 136 | | The Southern Company (energy company) (2014-present; previously 2010-2012), Graham Holdings Company (education and media organization) (2011-present) and Cbeyond, Inc. (business communications provider) (2010-2012). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; Counsel, Finch McCranie, LLP (law firm) (2015-present); Independent Compliance Monitor and Auditor, Volkswagen AG (manufacturer of automobiles and commercial vehicles) (2017-present); John A. Sibley Professor of Corporate and Business Law, University of Georgia School of Law (2015-present; previously 2011-2012); and formerly, Executive Vice President – Government Affairs, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, PepsiCo, Inc. (consumer products) (2012-2014); Senior Vice President - Government Affairs, General Counsel and Secretary, PepsiCo, Inc. (2004-2011); Senior Fellow of The Brookings Institution (2003-2004); Visiting Professor, University of Georgia School of Law (2004); and Deputy Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice (2001-2003). |
| | | | |
John B. Wilson (1959) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Lead Independent Trustee | | Trustee since 2006 and Lead Independent Trustee since 2008 | | 112 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
President and Founder, Hyannis Port Capital, Inc. (real estate and private equity investing) (2002-present); Senior Advisor, McKinsey & Co. (consulting) (2017-present); serves on private and non-profit boards; and formerly, President, Staples International and Head of Global Transformation (office supplies) (2012-2016); Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, Gap, Inc. (retail) (1996-2000); Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President – Finance and Strategy, Staples, Inc. (1992-1996); Senior Vice President – Corporate Planning, Northwest Airlines, Inc. (airlines) (1990-1992); and Vice President and Partner, Bain & Company (consulting firm) (1986-1990). |
Interested Board Members and Officers | | | | |
| | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
**Gregory E. Johnson (1961) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2007 | | 150 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Chairman of the Board, Member – Office of the Chairman, Director and Chief Executive Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.; officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 42 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice Chairman, Investment Company Institute; and formerly, President, Franklin Resources, Inc. (1994-2015). |
| | | | |
**Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (1940) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chairman of the Board and Trustee | | Since 2013 | | 136 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Vice Chairman, Member - Office of the Chairman and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Franklin Advisory Services, LLC; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 40 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Alison E. Baur (1964) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2012 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Deputy General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Gaston Gardey (1967) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Treasurer, U.S. Fund Administration & Reporting, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Aliya S. Gordon (1973) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Steven J. Gray (1955) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. and FASA, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Matthew T. Hinkle (1971) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chief Executive Officer – Finance and Administration | | Since 2017 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, LLC; officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; and formerly, Vice President, Global Tax (2012-April 2017) and Treasurer/Assistant Treasurer, Franklin Templeton Investments (2009-2017). |
| | | | |
Edward B. Jamieson (1948) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | President and Chief Executive Officer – Investment Management | | Since 2010 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
President and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC; and officer and/or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 10 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Robert Lim (1948) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President – AML Compliance | | Since 2016 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC; Chief Compliance Officer, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Investor Services, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Christopher J. Molumphy (1962) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2000 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director and Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 21 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Kimberly H. Novotny (1972) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Vice President | | Since 2013 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President and Corporate Secretary, Fiduciary Trust International of the South; Vice President, Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC; Assistant Secretary, Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Robert C. Rosselot (1960) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Chief Compliance Officer | | Since 2013 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director, Global Compliance, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President, Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC; officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; and formerly, Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments (2007-2013); and Secretary and Vice President, Templeton Group of Funds (2004-2013). |
| | | | |
Karen L. Skidmore (1952) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President and Secretary | | Since 2006 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Navid J. Tofigh (1972) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2015 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Craig S. Tyle (1960) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2005 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
General Counsel and Executive Vice President, Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Lori A. Weber (1964) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Vice President | | Since 2011 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Assistant Secretary, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Vice President and Secretary, Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
*We base the number of portfolios on each separate series of the US registered investment companies within the Franklin Templeton Investments fund complex. These portfolios have a common investment manager or affiliated investment managers.
**Gregory E. Johnson is considered to be an interested person of the Fund under the federal securities laws due to his position as an officer and director of Franklin Resources, Inc. (Resources), which is the parent company of the Fund’s investment manager and distributor. Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. is considered to be an interested person of the Fund under the federal securities laws due to his position as officer and director and major shareholder of Resources.
Note 1: Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. is the uncle of Gregory E. Johnson.
Note 2: Officer information is current as of the date of this report. It is possible that after this date, information about officers may change.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission require the Fund to disclose whether the Fund’s Audit Committee includes at least one member who is an audit committee financial expert within the meaning of such Act and Rules. The Fund’s Board has determined that there is at least one such financial expert on the Audit Committee and has designated John B. Wilson as its audit committee financial expert. The Board believes that Mr. Wilson qualifies as such an expert in view of his extensive business background and experience, including service as chief financial officer of Staples, Inc. from 1992 to 1996. Mr. Wilson has been a Member and Chairman of the Fund’s Audit Committee since 2006. As a result of such background and
| | | | |
56 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
experience, the Board believes that Mr. Wilson has acquired an understanding of generally accepted accounting principles and financial statements, the general application of such principles in connection with the accounting estimates, accruals and reserves, and analyzing and evaluating financial statements that present a breadth and level of complexity of accounting issues generally comparable to those of the Fund, as well as an understanding of internal controls and procedures for financial reporting and an understanding of audit committee functions. Mr. Wilson is an independent Board member as that term is defined under the relevant Securities and Exchange Commission Rules and Releases.
The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) includes additional information about the board members and is available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders may call (800) DIAL BEN/342-5236 to request the SAI.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 57 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Shareholder Information
Board Approval of Investment Management Agreements
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Franklin International Growth Fund
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund
(each a Fund)
At an in-person meeting held on February 27, 2018 (Meeting), the Board of Trustees (Board) of Franklin Global Trust (Trust), including a majority of the trustees who are not “interested persons” as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (Independent Trustees), reviewed and approved the continuance of the investment management agreement between Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC (FTI LLC) and the Trust, on behalf of the Franklin International Growth Fund, the investment management agreement between Franklin Advisers, Inc. (FAI) and the Trust, on behalf of the Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund and the investment sub-advisory agreement between FAI and FTI LLC on behalf of the Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund (each a Management Agreement) for an additional one-year period. The Independent Trustees received advice from and met separately with Independent Trustee counsel in considering whether to approve the continuation of each Management Agreement. Although the Management Agreements for the Funds were considered at the same Board meeting, the Board considered the information provided to it about the Funds together and with respect to each Fund separately as the Board deemed appropriate. FTI LLC and FAI are each referred to herein as a Manager.
In considering the continuation of each Management Agreement, the Board reviewed and considered information provided by each Manager at the Meeting and throughout the year at meetings of the Board and its committees. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided in response to a detailed set of requests for information submitted to each Manager by Independent Trustee counsel on behalf of the Independent Trustees in connection with the annual contract renewal process. In addition, prior to the Meeting, the Independent Trustees held a telephonic contract renewal meeting at which the Independent Trustees conferred amongst themselves and Independent Trustee counsel about contract renewal matters. The Board reviewed and considered all of the factors it deemed relevant in approving the continuance of each Management Agreement, including, but not limited to: (i) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by each Manager; (ii) the investment performance of each Fund; (iii) the costs of the services provided and profits realized by each
Manager and its affiliates from the relationship with each Fund; (iv) the extent to which economies of scale are realized as each Fund grows; and (v) whether fee levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund investors.
In approving the continuance of each Management Agreement, the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, determined that the terms of the Management Agreement are fair and reasonable and that the continuance of such Management Agreement is in the interests of the applicable Fund and its shareholders. While attention was given to all information furnished, the following discusses some primary factors relevant to the Board’s determination.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the nature, extent and quality of investment management services provided by each Manager and its affiliates to the Funds and their shareholders. This information included, among other things, the qualifications, background and experience of the senior management and investment personnel of each Manager; the structure of investment personnel compensation; oversight of third-party service providers; investment performance reports and related financial information for each Fund; reports on expenses, shareholder services, marketing support payments made to financial intermediaries and third party servicing arrangements; legal and compliance matters; risk controls; pricing and other services provided by each Manager and its affiliates; and management fees charged by each Manager and its affiliates to U.S. funds and other accounts, including management’s explanation of differences among accounts where relevant. The Board also reviewed and considered an annual report on payments made by Franklin Templeton Investments (FTI) or the Funds to financial intermediaries, as well as a memorandum relating to third-party servicing arrangements in response to a guidance update in 2016 from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) relating to mutual fund distribution and sub-accounting fees. The Board noted management’s continuing efforts and expenditures in establishing effective business continuity plans and developing strategies to address areas of heightened concern in the mutual fund industry, such as cybersecurity and liquidity risk management. The Board also recognized management’s commitment to facilitating Board oversight of particular areas, including derivatives and payments to intermediaries, by enhanced reporting.
The Board also reviewed and considered the benefits provided to Fund shareholders of investing in a fund that is part of the
| | | | |
58 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
Franklin Templeton family of funds. The Board noted the financial position of Franklin Resources, Inc. (FRI), the Managers’ parent, and its commitment to the mutual fund business as evidenced by its continued introduction of new funds, reassessment of the fund offerings in response to the market environment and project initiatives and capital investments relating to the services provided to the Funds by the FTI organization.
Following consideration of such information, the Board was satisfied with the nature, extent and quality of services provided by each Manager and its affiliates to the Funds and their shareholders.
Fund Performance
The Board reviewed and considered the performance results of each Fund over various time periods ended December 31, 2017. The Board considered the performance returns for each Fund in comparison to the performance returns of mutual funds deemed comparable to the Fund included in a universe (Performance Universe) selected by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (Broadridge), an independent provider of investment company data. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge to select the mutual funds included in a Performance Universe. The Board also reviewed and considered Fund performance reports provided and discussions that occurred with portfolio managers at Board meetings throughout the year. A summary of each Fund’s performance results is below.
Franklin International Growth Fund - The Performance Universe for this Fund included the Fund and all retail and institutional international multi-cap growth funds. The Board noted that the Fund’s annualized total return for the one-, three-and five-year periods was above the median of its Performance Universe. The Board concluded that the Fund’s performance was satisfactory, noting that the Fund has been in operation for less than 10 years.
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund - The Performance Universe for this Fund included the Fund and all retail and institutional international small-/mid-cap growth funds. The Board noted that the Fund’s annualized total return for the one-, three- and five-year periods was below the median of its Performance Universe, but for the 10-year period was above the median of its Performance Universe. The Board further noted management’s explanation of the reasons for the Fund’s underperformance, which included stock selection. The Board concluded that the Fund’s performance was acceptable, noting that the Fund’s long-term 10-year performance was in
the first quintile (the best) of its Performance Universe and that the Fund is currently closed to new investors. The Board further noted that the Fund’s annualized total return for the one-year period, while below the median, exceeded 34%.
Comparative Fees and Expenses
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding each Fund’s actual total expense ratio and its various components, including, as applicable, management fees; transfer agent expenses; underlying fund expenses; Rule 12b-1 and non-Rule 12b-1 service fees; and other non-management fees. The Board also noted the quarterly and annual reports it receives on all marketing support payments made by FTI to financial intermediaries. The Board considered the actual total expense ratio and, separately, the contractual management fee rate, without the effect of fee waivers (Management Rate), if any, of each Fund in comparison to the median expense ratio and median Management Rate, respectively, of other mutual funds deemed comparable to and with a similar expense structure as the Fund selected by Broadridge (Expense Group). Broadridge fee and expense data is based upon information taken from each fund’s most recent annual report, which reflects historical asset levels that may be quite different from those currently existing, particularly in a period of market volatility. While recognizing such inherent limitation and the fact that expense ratios and Management Rates generally increase as assets decline and decrease as assets grow, the Board believed the independent analysis conducted by Broadridge to be an appropriate measure of comparative fees and expenses. The Broadridge Management Rate includes administrative charges, and the actual total expense ratio, for comparative consistency, was shown for: (i) Class A shares for the Franklin International Growth Fund and for Class A shares and Investor Class shares for certain other funds in the Expense Group, and (ii) Advisor Class shares for the Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund and for Advisor Class shares, Institutional Class shares and Class I shares for certain other funds in the Expense Group. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge to select the mutual funds included in an Expense Group.
Franklin International Growth Fund - The Expense Group for this Fund included the Fund and 13 other international multi-cap growth funds. The Board noted that the Management Rate and actual total expense ratio for the Fund were below the medians of its Expense Group. The Board concluded that the Management Rate charged to the Fund is reasonable. In doing so, the Board noted that the Fund’s actual total expense ratio reflected a fee waiver from management.
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
Franklin International Small Cap Growth Fund - The Expense Group for this Fund included the Fund and ten other international small-/mid-cap growth funds. The Board noted that the Management Rate for the Fund was below the median of its Expense Group, but its actual total expense ratio was slightly above the median of its Expense Group. The Board concluded that the Management Rate charged to the Fund is reasonable. In doing so, the Board noted that FTI LLC, as sub-adviser to the Fund, is paid by FAI out of the management fee FAI receives from the Fund.
Profitability
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the profits realized by each Manager and its affiliates in connection with the operation of each Fund. In this respect, the Board considered the Fund profitability analysis that addresses the overall profitability of FTI’s U.S. fund business, as well as its profits in providing investment management and other services to each of the individual funds during the 12-month period ended September 30, 2017, being the most recent fiscal year-end for FRI. The Board noted that although management continually makes refinements to its methodologies used in calculating profitability in response to organizational and product-related changes, the overall methodology has remained consistent with that used in the Funds’ profitability report presentations from prior years. Additionally, Pricewaterhouse-Coopers LLP, auditor to Franklin Resources, Inc. and certain Franklin Templeton funds, has been engaged to periodically review and assess the allocation methodologies to be used solely by the Funds’ Board with respect to the profitability analysis.
The Board noted management’s belief that costs incurred in establishing the infrastructure necessary for the type of mutual fund operations conducted by each Manager and its affiliates may not be fully reflected in the expenses allocated to each Fund in determining its profitability, as well as the fact that the level of profits, to a certain extent, reflected operational cost savings and efficiencies initiated by management. The Board also noted management’s expenditures in improving shareholder services provided to the Funds, as well as the need to implement systems and meet additional regulatory and compliance requirements resulting from recent SEC and other regulatory requirements.
The Board also considered the extent to which each Manager and its affiliates might derive ancillary benefits from fund operations, including revenues generated from transfer agent services, potential benefits resulting from personnel and
systems enhancements necessitated by fund growth, as well as increased leverage with service providers and counterparties. Based upon its consideration of all these factors, the Board concluded that the level of profits realized by each Manager and its affiliates from providing services to each Fund was not excessive in view of the nature, extent and quality of services provided to each Fund.
Economies of Scale
The Board reviewed and considered the extent to which each Manager may realize economies of scale, if any, as each Fund grows larger and whether the Fund’s management fee structure reflects any economies of scale for the benefit of shareholders. With respect to possible economies of scale, the Board noted the existence of management fee breakpoints for the Franklin International Growth Fund, which operate generally to share any economies of scale with the Fund’s shareholders by reducing the Fund’s effective management fees as the Fund grows in size. The Board considered the Managers’ view that any analyses of potential economies of scale in managing a particular fund are inherently limited in light of the joint and common costs and investments the Managers incur across the Franklin Templeton family of funds as a whole. The Board concluded that to the extent economies of scale may be realized by a Manager and its affiliates, each Fund’s management fee structure provided a sharing of benefits with the Fund and its shareholders as the Fund grows.
Conclusion
Based on its review, consideration and evaluation of all factors it believed relevant, including the above-described factors and conclusions, the Board unanimously approved the continuation of each Management Agreement for an additional one-year period.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
The Trust’s investment manager has established Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures (Policies) that the Trust uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities. Shareholders may view the Trust’s complete Policies online at franklintempleton.com. Alternatively, shareholders may request copies of the Policies free of charge by calling the Proxy Group collect at (954) 527-7678 or by sending a written request to: Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC, 300 S.E. 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, Attention: Proxy Group. Copies of the Trust’s proxy voting records are also made available online at franklintempleton.com and posted on the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov and reflect the most recent 12-month period ended June 30.
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
Quarterly Statement of Investments
The Trust files a complete statement of investments with the US Securities and Exchange Commission for the first and third quarters for each fiscal year on Form N-Q. Shareholders may view the filed Form N-Q by visiting the Commission’s website at sec.gov. The filed form may also be viewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information regarding the operations of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.
Householding of Reports and Prospectuses
You will receive each Fund’s financial reports every six months as well as an annual updated summary prospectus (prospectus available upon request). To reduce Fund expenses, we try to identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the financial reports and summary prospectus. This process, called “householding,” will continue indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you prefer not to have these documents householded, please call us at (800) 632-2301. At any time you may view current prospectuses/summary prospectuses and financial reports on our website. If you choose, you may receive these documents through electronic delivery.
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 | | Annual Report and Shareholder Letter | | |
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Authorized for distribution only when accompanied or preceded by a summary prospectus and/or prospectus. Investors should carefully consider a fund’s investment goals, risks, charges and expenses before investing. A prospectus contains this and other information; please read it carefully before investing.
To help ensure we provide you with quality service, all calls to and from our service areas are monitored and/or recorded.
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| © 2018 Franklin Templeton Investments. All rights reserved. | | FGT3 A 09/18 |
Franklin Templeton Investments
Why choose Franklin Templeton Investments?
Successful investing begins with ambition. And achievement only comes when you reach for it. That’s why we continually strive to deliver better outcomes for investors. No matter what your goals are, our deep, global investment expertise allows us to offer solutions that can help.
During our more than 70 years of experience, we’ve managed through all kinds of markets—up, down and those in between. We’re always preparing for what may come next. It’s because of this, combined with our strength as one of the world’s largest asset managers that we’ve earned the trust of millions of investors around the world.
Visit ftinstitutional.com for fund updates, to access your account, or to find investment insights.
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| Not FDIC Insured | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee |
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ftinstitutional.com | | Not part of the annual report | | 1 |
Annual Report
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
We are pleased to bring you Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund’s annual report for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.
Your Fund’s Goal and Main Investments
The Fund seeks high total return through investing at least 80% of its net assets in debt securities of emerging market countries—mainly securities issued by sovereign and subsovereign government entities, but also including securities issued by corporate entities that are controlled by a sovereign entity, and corporate emerging markets debt.
Performance Overview
The Fund delivered a +4.04% cumulative total return for the 12 months under review. In comparison, the Fund’s first benchmark, the J.P. Morgan (JPM) Emerging Markets Bond Index (EMBI) Global Diversified Index, which tracks total returns for US dollar-denominated debt instruments issued by emerging market sovereign and quasi-sovereign entities, generated a total return of +0.07%,1 and the Fund’s second benchmark, the JPM Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM) Broad Diversified Index (US$ Unhedged), which tracks local currency bonds issued in emerging markets, had a -2.31% total return.2 Also for comparison, the Fund’s third benchmark, the ICE Bank of America Merrill Lynch (BofAML) Emerging Markets Corporate Plus Index (EMCB) (100% US$ Hedged), which tracks the performance of US dollar-denominated and euro-denominated emerging market non-sovereign debt publicly issued within the major domestic and Eurobond markets, posted a +0.42% total return.1 You can find more of the Fund’s performance data in the Performance Summary beginning on page 6.
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to
Portfolio Composition*
Based on Total Net Assets as of 7/31/18
*Figures reflect certain derivatives held in the portfolio (or their underlying reference assets) and may not total 100% or may be negative due to rounding, use of derivatives, unsettled trades or other factors.
**Includes securities determined to have no value at 7/31/18.
***Rounds to less than 0.1%.
ftinstitutional.com or call a Franklin Templeton Institutional Services representative at (800) 321-8563.
Economic and Market Overview
World economic growth remained robust in 2017. Near the end of 2017, however, the Trump administration started to act more decisively on some of its key policy objectives, domestically as well as internationally. These actions significantly impacted emerging-market (EM) bonds.
Domestically, President Trump’s December tax cut gave a boost to the US economy, but also, in our opinion, increased the risk that the economy might overheat and that the national debt might balloon. The strengthening US economy contributed
1. Source: Morningstar.
2. Source: J.P. Morgan.
The indexes are unmanaged and include reinvested interest. They do not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. One cannot invest directly in an index and an index is not representative of the Fund’s portfolio.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
The dollar value, number of shares or principal amount, and names of all portfolio holdings are listed in the Fund’s Consolidated Statement of Investments (SOI). The Consolidated SOI begins on page 11.
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FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
to a rise in 10-year US Treasury yields, from 2.40% at the end of December to 2.87% at the end of February.
The Federal Reserve (Fed) hiked its key policy rate three times during the review period, in December, March and June. President Trump’s tax cut and the Fed’s announcements fueled investor speculation that rates might rise faster than predicted at the beginning of 2018. This helped lift the yield on 10-year US Treasuries to more than 3.00% in May, for the first time since early 2014.
Internationally, President Trump announced tariffs on steel and aluminum in early March, which hit several US trading partners. Later in the month, he followed these up with tariffs specifically aimed at China. Tit-for-tat retaliatory measures continued for the remainder of the review period, and led several observers, most notably the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to warn of potential repercussions for world growth.
Oil prices rose from around US$53 per barrel of Brent Crude in mid-2017 to just under US$75 at the end of July, which helped the fortunes of many EM countries that are net commodity exporters. In November, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) extended the supply cuts it enacted in 2016. Continued tension between Saudi Arabia and Iran, the prospect of new US sanctions on Iran, lower oil reserves, and lower supplies from Venezuela also boosted prices.
In March, Saudi Arabia announced that it is working on a long-term agreement with Russia, which we believe could effectively integrate Russia within OPEC and reduce oil price volatility. Commodity prices stalled somewhat as the 12-month review period drew to a close, as the prospect of a trade war moderated expectations for world growth.
Country-specific stories generated mainly negative headlines during the period under review. Venezuela defaulted and its incumbent government won a snap election. Political pressure on Turkey’s central bank weighed on the value of the lira. Argentina’s peso also came under pressure, but the IMF put together a substantial support package. South Africa’s credit rating was downgraded by independent credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s, but the installation of Cyril Ramaphosa as the country’s new president brought fresh hope.
World economic growth has tapered off somewhat in 2018, but EM economies continue to grow more quickly than their advanced peers. EM bond valuations, meanwhile, have declined significantly since the beginning of the year.
| | |
| Geographic Composition* | | |
| 7/31/18 | | |
| |
| Country | | % of Total
Net Assets |
Ukraine | | 7.2% |
Argentina | | 6.1% |
Iraq | | 5.9% |
South Africa | | 5.5% |
Mexico | | 4.6% |
Colombia | | 4.6% |
Turkey | | 3.9% |
Nigeria | | 3.8% |
Ghana | | 3.8% |
Angola | | 3.8% |
Uruguay | | 3.6% |
Georgia | | 3.3% |
Chad | | 2.8% |
Brazil | | 2.7% |
El Salvador | | 2.7% |
Tunisia | | 2.4% |
Armenia | | 2.1% |
Ethiopia | | 2.0% |
Kenya | | 1.9% |
Cameroon | | 1.8% |
Russia | | 1.7% |
Azerbaijan | | 1.6% |
Gabon | | 1.6% |
Other | | 16.9% |
Short-Term Investments & Other Net Assets** | | 3.7% |
*Figures reflect certain derivatives held in the portfolio (or their underlying referenceassets) and may not total 100% or may be negative due to rounding, use of anyderivatives, unsettled trades or other factors. May differ from the Consolidated SOIdue to the underlying currency exposure on pass-thru notes and currency forwardcontracts, and include the effects of interest receivable balances.
**Short-term securities denomiated in US Dollar.
Hard currency-denominated EM sovereign bonds posted a +0.07% total return during the review period, as measured by the JPM EMBI Global Diversified Index.1 US 10-year Treasury yields rose by 66 basis points (bps) during the 12 months under review. The EMBI Global Diversified Index’s spread over US Treasuries, on a yield-to-worst basis, rose by 23 bps.
Local-currency sovereign EM bonds had a -2.31% total return, as measured by the JPM GBI-EM Broad Diversified (US$ Unhedged).2 Local-currency yields rose and EM currencies mostly weakened, relative to the US dollar.
US dollar- and euro-denominated EM corporate bonds posted a +0.42% total return, as measured by the ICE BofAML EMCB Index (100% US$ Hedged).1
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FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Investment Strategy
Our portfolio construction process can be summarized in three integral steps—country allocation, currency allocation and issue selection. The first stage of our emerging market debt investment process is identifying the countries for which we have a favorable outlook, which we manage with a bottom-up, research-driven perspective. Since the portfolio is constructed through bottom-up, fundamental research and not relative to a benchmark index, there is no requirement to hold issues from any one country. The next decision is whether to take exposure in the form of “hard currency” or local currency instruments. Hard currencies are typically currencies of economically and politically stable industrialized nations. The last decision concerns security selection. This depends on a number of factors, including the type of the issue’s coupon (fixed or floating).
Manager’s Discussion
During the reporting period, a position in defaulted US-dollar notes issued by Ukraine’s City of Kyiv was a major contributor to the Fund’s performance. At the end of 2017, we agreed with Kyiv to exchange these notes into new ones, on terms that we consider better than the terms of a restructuring involving other investors two years ago. Since then, the notes have performed significantly better than the broader market, although the restructuring has not been finalized yet.
The Fund’s holding of Salvadoran US-dollar bonds also added to returns, mainly because of their strong performance early during the review period. In mid-2017, El Salvador’s politicians agreed on how to reform the nation’s pension system and address their government’s 2017 budget deficit. Both issues had divided government and opposition for most of the year and had led to a temporary technical default in April.
The Fund’s position in bonds of two Nigerian banks also added to returns. These banks’ operating environment has improved significantly since 2017, in part because of the Nigerian central bank’s new liquidity window. This trend has allowed some banks to tap international markets, and it has boosted secondary markets in their bonds. In addition, oil prices continued to rise in the first half of 2018, which has boosted the Nigerian economy.
By contrast, the Fund’s exposure to the weaker Turkish lira was a major detractor from returns. Pressure on the Turkish lira increased as inflation rose, but President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan opposed raising interest rates. This stance raised investors’ doubts about the central bank’s independence. Further weakness manifested itself in the run-up to the
| | |
| Currency Composition* | | |
| 7/31/18 | | |
| | | % of Total
Net Assets |
U.S. Dollar | | 67.7% |
South African Rand | | 3.9% |
Mexican Peso | | 3.6% |
Uruguayan Peso | | 3.6% |
Colombian Peso | | 3.5% |
Ghanaian Cedi | | 2.5% |
Turkish Lira | | 2.3% |
Argentine Peso | | 2.0% |
Kenyan Shilling | | 2.0% |
Egyptian Pound | | 1.3% |
Georgian Lari | | 1.2% |
Peruvian Nuevo Sol | | 1.1% |
Dominican Peso | | 1.0% |
Kazakhstani Tenge | | 1.0% |
Russian Ruble | | 1.0% |
Indonesian Rupiah | | 0.9% |
Brazilian Real | | 0.6% |
Ugandan Shilling | | 0.6% |
Azerbaijan Manat | | 0.4% |
Japanese Yen | | -0.1% |
Euro | | -0.1% |
*Figures reflect certain derivatives held in the portfolio (or their underlying reference assets) and may not total 100% or may be negative due to rounding, use of any derivatives, unsettled trades or other factors. May differ from the Consolidated SOI due to the underlying currency exposure on pass-thru notes and currency forward contracts, and include the effects of interest receivable balances.
country’s June elections. Erdoğan won these elections more convincingly than expected, putting in place a presidential system of government with less power for parliament.
At the security level, Venezuelan US-dollar bonds were a major detractor from the Fund’s performance. The country’s government defaulted in late 2017 but, for technical reasons, prices for these bonds rebounded somewhat in early 2018. They fell for most of 2018, however, as US sanctions expanded, President Nicolás Maduro was re-elected and Venezuela’s oil infrastructure crumbled.
A position in US-dollar bonds issued by Russian property firm O1 Properties also detracted from returns. In late 2017, questions were raised about certain business dealings between
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FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
recently nationalized Bank Otkritie and O1 Group, the parent company of O1 Properties. Because of the resulting financial distress, we believe O1 Group may need to relinquish its controlling stake in O1 Properties. However, a change of control provision in O1 Properties’ eurobonds means that this might constitute an event of default unless the bondholders waive the change of control.
| | |
| Top 10 Holdings* | | |
| 7/31/18 | | |
| |
Issue Sector, Country | | % of Total
Net Assets |
Government of South Africa Foreign Government & Agency Securities, South Africa | | 3.8% |
Government of Iraq** Foreign Government & Agency Securities, Iraq | | 3.8% |
Government of Uruguay Foreign Government & Agency Securities, Uruguay | | 3.6% |
Development Bank of South Africa (Government of Angola) Loan Participations and Assignments, Angola | | 2.9% |
Societe des Hydrocarbures du Tchad Loan Participations and Assignments, Chad | | 2.8% |
Government of Mexico Foreign Government & Agency Securities, Mexico | | 2.7% |
Government of El Salvador Foreign Government & Agency Securities, El Salvador | | 2.7% |
Government of Ghana Foreign Government & Agency Securities, Ghana | | 2.6% |
Banque Centrale de Tunisie International Bond Foreign Government & Agency Securities, Tunisia | | 2.4% |
Government of Turkey Foreign Government & Agency Securities, Turkey | | 2.3% |
*May differ from the Consolidated SOI because percentages include the effect of interest receivable balances.
**Includes loan participations and assignments.
As of period-end, the Fund had exposure to 40 emerging markets and two supranationals. The largest single country exposure was to Ukraine (7.2% of total net assets), followed by Argentina (6.1%) and Iraq (5.9%). Securities denominated in G7 currencies constituted 66.2% of total net assets, with 61.5% denominated in the US dollar, 3.6% in the Japanese yen and 1.1% in the euro. At the end of the review period, the Fund’s exposures to the euro and the Japanese yen were fully hedged back into the US dollar. In addition, 32.3% of total net assets were denominated in 18 emerging market currencies, of which the largest currency exposure was to the South African rand, at 3.9% of total net assets. These figures may differ from the currency composition table because they do not include the
Fund’s holdings in currency forward contracts and other hedging instruments.
We thank you for your confidence in Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund and hope to serve your investment needs at the highest level of expectations.
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| | 
William Ledward Portfolio Manager and Research Analyst of Franklin Templeton Investment Management Limited (FTIML) |
| |
 | | 
Nicholas Hardingham, CFA Portfolio Manager and Research Analyst of FTIML |
| | Stephanie Ouwendijk, CFA Portfolio Manager and Research Analyst of FTIML Portfolio Management Team |
The foregoing information reflects our analysis, opinions and portfolio holdings as of July 31, 2018, the end of the reporting period. The way we implement our main investment strategies and the resulting portfolio holdings may change depending on factors such as market and economic conditions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice or an offer for a particular security. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or the Fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable, but the investment manager makes no representation or warranty as to their completeness or accuracy. Although historical performance is no guarantee of future results, these insights may help you understand our investment management philosophy.
CFA® is a trademark owned by CFA Institute.
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FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Performance Summary as of July 31, 2018
The performance table and graph do not reflect any taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends, capital gain distributions, if any, or any realized gains on the sale of Fund shares. Total return reflects reinvestment of the Fund’s dividends and capital gain distributions, if any, and any unrealized gains or losses. Your dividend income will vary depending on dividends or interest paid by securities in the Fund’s portfolio, adjusted for operating expenses. Capital gain distributions are net profits realized from the sale of portfolio securities.
Performance as of 7/31/181
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Cumulative Total Return2 | | | Average Annual Total Return3 | |
| | |
1-Year | | | +4.04% | | | | +4.04% | |
5-Year | | | +23.85% | | | | +4.37% | |
10-Year | | | +82.80% | | | | +6.22% | |
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to ftinstitutional.com or call a Franklin Templeton Institutional Services representative at (800) 321-8563.
See page 8 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Total Return Index Comparison for a Hypothetical $50,000 Investment1
Total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods shown. It includes any applicable maximum sales charge, Fund expenses, account fees and reinvested distributions. The unmanaged indexes include reinvestment of any income or distributions. They differ from the Fund in composition and do not pay management fees or expenses. One cannot invest directly in an index.
8/1/08–7/31/18
See page 8 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Distributions (8/1/17–7/31/18)
| | | | | | | | |
Net Investment Income | | Long-Term Capital Gain | | | Total | |
$0.4665 | | | $0.0340 | | | | $0.5005 | |
| |
Total Annual Operating Expenses6 | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | With Waiver | | Without Waiver |
| | | 1.01% | | 1.10% |
All investments involve risks, including possible loss of principal. Special risks are associated with foreign investing including currency volatility, economic instability, and social and political developments of countries where the Fund invests. Investments in emerging markets involve heightened risks related to the same factors, in addition to those associated with these markets’ smaller size, lesser liquidity and lack of established legal, political, business and social frameworks to support securities markets. The risks associated with higher yielding, lower rated securities include higher risk of default and loss of principal. In addition, interest rate movements will affect the Fund’s share price and yield. Prices of debt securities generally move in the opposite direction of interest rates. Thus, as prices of debt securities in the Fund adjust to a rise in interest rates, the Fund’s share price may decline. The Fund is actively managed but there is no guarantee that the manager’s investment decisions will produce the desired results. The Fund’s prospectus also includes a description of the main investment risks.
1. The Fund has an expense reduction, a waiver related to the management fee paid by a Fund subsidiary and a fee waiver associated with any investments it makes in a Franklin Templeton money fund and/or other Franklin Templeton fund, contractually guaranteed through 11/30/18. Fund investment results reflect the expense reduction and fee waiver; without these reductions, the results would have been lower.
2. Cumulative total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods indicated.
3. Average annual total return represents the average annual change in value of an investment over the periods indicated. Return for less than one year, if any, has not been annualized.
4. Source: Morningstar: The JPM EMBI Global Diversified Index is a uniquely weighted version of the JPM EMBI Global Index, which tracks total returns for US dollar-denominated debt instruments issued by emerging market sovereign and quasi-sovereign entities: Brady bonds, loans and Eurobonds. The index includes all countries except those that have been classified by the World Bank as high income for the past two consecutive years. The diversified index limits the weights of those index countries with larger debt stocks by only including specified portions of these countries’ eligible current face amounts of debt outstanding. The ICE BofAML EMCB (100% US$ Hedged) tracks the performance of US dollar-denominated and euro-denominated emerging market non-sovereign debt publicly issued within the major domestic and Eurobond markets.
5. Source: J.P. Morgan. The JPM GBI-EM Broad Diversified Index tracks local currency bonds issued by emerging markets. Weightings among countries are more evenly distributed within the index than in the global diversified index.
6. Figures are as stated in the Fund’s current prospectus and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Your Fund’s Expenses and Consolidated Financial Highlights sections in this report. In periods of market volatility, assets may decline significantly, causing total annual Fund operating expenses to become higher than the figures shown.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
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FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Your Fund’s Expenses
As a Fund shareholder, you can incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on Fund purchases and redemptions, if applicable; and (2) ongoing Fund costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees, if applicable, and other Fund expenses. All mutual funds have ongoing costs, sometimes referred to as operating expenses. The table below shows ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and can help you understand these costs and compare them with those of other mutual funds. The table assumes a $1,000 investment held for the six months indicated.
Actual Fund Expenses
The table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses in the columns under the heading “Actual.” In these columns the Fund’s actual return, which includes the effect of Fund expenses, is used to calculate the “Ending Account Value.” You can estimate the expenses you paid during the period by following these steps (of course, your account value and expenses will differ from those in this illustration): Divide your account value by $1,000 (if your account had an $8,600 value, then $8,600 ÷ $1,000 = 8.6). Then multiply the result by the number in the row for your class of shares under the headings “Actual” and “Expenses Paid During Period” (if Actual Expenses Paid During Period were $7.50, then 8.6 x $7.50 = $64.50). In this illustration, the actual expenses paid this period are $64.50.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison with Other Funds
Under the heading “Hypothetical” in the table, information is provided about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. This information may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period, but it can help you compare ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with those of other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example for the class of shares you hold with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds.
Please note that expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight ongoing costs and do not reflect any transactional costs. Therefore, information under the heading “Hypothetical” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you compare total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if transactional costs were included, your total costs would have been higher.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | Actual (actual return after expenses) | | | | Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses) | | | | |
| | | Beginning Account Value 2/1/18 | | | | Ending Account Value 7/31/18 | | Paid During Period 2/1/18–7/31/181,2 | | | | Ending Account Value 7/31/18 | | Paid During Period 2/1/18–7/31/181,2 | | | | Net Annualized Expense Ratio2 |
| | $1,000 | | | | $979.80 | | $4.91 | | | | $1,019.84 | | $5.01 | | | | 1.00% |
1. Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the six-month period as indicated above—in the far right column—multiplied by the simple average account value over the period indicated, and then multiplied by 181/365 to reflect the one-half year period.
2. Reflects expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements. Does not include acquired fund fees and expenses.
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Consolidated Financial Highlights
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014 |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $11.68 | | | | $10.76 | | | | $10.72 | | | | $12.35 | | | | $12.06 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsa: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomeb | | | 0.86 | | | | 0.83 | | | | 0.89 | | | | 0.87 | | | | 0.87 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | (0.36 | ) | | | 0.17 | | | | (0.26 | ) | | | (1.53 | ) | | | 0.04 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.50 | | | | 1.00 | | | | 0.63 | | | | (0.66 | ) | | | 0.91 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.47 | ) | | | — | | | | (0.59 | ) | | | (0.91 | ) | | | (0.58 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | (0.03 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) | | | — | | | | (0.06 | ) | | | (0.04 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.50 | ) | | | (0.08 | ) | | | (0.59 | ) | | | (0.97 | ) | | | (0.62 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $11.68 | | | | $11.68 | | | | $10.76 | | | | $10.72 | | | | $12.35 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total return | | | 4.04% | | | | 9.40% | | | | 6.41% | | | | (5.16)% | | | | 7.82% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assets | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates | | | 1.09% | | | | 1.07% | | | | 1.06% | | | | 1.05% | | | | 1.10% | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliatesc | | | 1.00% | | | | 1.00% | | | | 1.00% | | | | 1.00% | | | | 1.00% | |
Net investment income | | | 7.31% | | | | 7.43% | | | | 8.70% | | | | 7.78% | | | | 7.29% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $518,344 | | | | $514,406 | | | | $552,835 | | | | $713,575 | | | | $630,597 | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 33.70% | | | | 29.45% | | | | 21.61% | | | | 17.56% | | | | 29.70% | |
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
10 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Consolidated Statement of Investments, July 31, 2018
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country/
Organization | | Warrants | | | | | | Value | |
Warrants 2.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a,b Central Bank of Nigeria, Reg S, wts., 11/15/20 | | Nigeria | | | 64,000 | | | | | | | $ | 4,400,000 | |
b,c,d Government of Ukraine, Reg S, VRI, GDP Linked Security, 5/31/40 | | Ukraine | | | 7,700,000 | | | | | | | | 4,884,688 | |
a Government of Venezuela, Oil Value Recovery wts., 4/15/20 | | Venezuela | | | 925,920 | | | | | | | | 1,851,840 | |
c Oi SA, wts., 10/21/19 | | Brazil | | | 22,455 | | | | | | | | 87,350 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
Total Warrants (Cost $32,048,566) | | | | | | | | | | | | | 11,223,878 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| Principal
Amount |
* | | | | | | | | |
Quasi-Sovereign and Corporate Bonds 26.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Banks 4.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e Akbank Turk AS, sub.bond, 144A, 6.797% to 4/27/23, FRN thereafter, 4/27/28 | | Turkey | | | 5,600,000 | | | | | | | | 4,306,333 | |
e Bank of Georgia JSC, senior note, 144A, 11.00%, 6/01/20 | | Georgia | | | 15,050,000 | | | | GEL | | | | 6,191,140 | |
e Fidelity Bank, senior note, 144A, 10.50%, 10/16/22 | | Nigeria | | | 6,400,000 | | | | | | | | 6,456,096 | |
b,f International Bank of Azerbaijan OJSC, senior note, Reg S, 5.625%, 6/11/19 | | Azerbaijan | | | 10,500,000 | | | | | | | | 8,610,000 | |
f,g,h,i Sphynx Capital Markets PCC (National Investment Bank of Ghana), PTN, Reg S, zero cpn., 2/05/09 | | Ghana | | | 8,000,000 | | | | | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 25,563,569 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Building Products 1.6% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e St. Marys Cement Inc., senior bond, 144A, 5.75%, 1/28/27 | | Brazil | | | 2,600,000 | | | | | | | | 2,593,500 | |
e Tecnoglass Inc., senior note, 144A, 8.20%, 1/31/22 | | Colombia | | | 5,500,000 | | | | | | | | 5,802,500 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8,396,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial Services & Supplies 0.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
b Red de Carreteras de Occidente Sapib de CV, senior secured bond, Reg S, 9.00%, 6/10/28 | | Mexico | | | 90,000,000 | | | | MXN | | | | 4,655,104 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Construction & Engineering 0.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
b Saderea DAC, senior secured bond, Reg S, 12.50%, 11/30/26 | | Ghana | | | 2,110,643 | | | | | | | | 2,326,983 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Diversified Financial Services 3.6% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
g,h Astana Finance JSC, secured note, 144A, zero cpn., 12/22/24 | | Kazakhstan | | | 136,566 | | | | | | | | 1,366 | |
e,j Fideicomiso PA Costera, senior secured bond, B, 144A, Index Linked, 6.25%, 1/15/34 | | Colombia | | | 10,679,816,977 | | | | COP | | | | 3,824,117 | |
e JSC Georgia Capital, senior note, 144A, 6.125%, 3/09/24 | | Georgia | | | 4,800,000 | | | | | | | | 4,530,816 | |
e O1 Properties Finance PLC, senior note, 144A, 8.25%, 9/27/21 | | Russia | | | 5,400,000 | | | | | | | | 3,595,709 | |
e Rio Oil Finance Trust, senior secured bond, 144A, 9.25%, 7/06/24 | | Brazil | | | 5,992,464 | | | | | | | | 6,473,659 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 18,425,667 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Diversified Telecommunication Services 2.6% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
b Empresa de Telecommunicaciones de Bogota SA, senior note, Reg S, 7.00%, 1/17/23 | | Colombia | | | 27,200,000,000 | | | | COP | | | | 7,891,340 | |
e MTN (Mauritius) Investments Ltd., senior bond, 144A, 4.755%, 11/11/24 | | South Africa | | | 4,000,000 | | | | | | | | 3,779,240 | |
k Oi SA, senior note, PIK, 10.00%, 7/27/25 | | Brazil | | | 1,594,000 | | | | | | | | 1,801,220 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 13,471,800 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Food & Staples Retailing 0.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e JBS Investments GmbH, senior note, 144A, 7.25%, 4/03/24 | | Brazil | | | 1,900,000 | | | | | | | | 1,904,085 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 11 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country/ Organization | |
| Principal
Amount |
* | | | | | | | Value | |
Quasi-Sovereign and Corporate Bonds (continued) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Food Products 1.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e MHP Lux SA, senior note, 144A, 6.95%, 4/03/26 | | Ukraine | | | 5,400,000 | | | | | | | $ | 5,197,680 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Industrial Conglomerates 0.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e Yasar Holdings SA, senior note, 144A, 8.875%, 5/06/20 | | Turkey | | | 4,400,000 | | | | | | | | 3,963,124 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Metals & Mining 1.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e Ferrexpo Finance PLC, senior note, 144A, 10.375%, 4/07/19 | | Ukraine | | | 1,000,000 | | | | | | | | 1,031,465 | |
e Petra Diamonds U.S. Treasury PLC, secured note, second lien, 144A, 7.25%, 5/01/22 | | South Africa | | | 4,500,000 | | | | | | | | 4,308,750 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 5,340,215 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Multiline Retail 0.0%† | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
g,h,k K2016470219 South Africa Ltd., senior secured note, 144A, PIK, 3.00%, 12/31/22 | | South Africa | | | 4,299,065 | | | | | | | | 5,360 | |
h,k K2016470260 South Africa Ltd., senior secured note, 144A, PIK, 25.00%, 12/31/22 | | South Africa | | | 831,443 | | | | | | | | 81,448 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 86,808 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Municipal Bonds 4.1% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
b Bogota Distrito Capital, senior bond, Reg S, 9.75%, 7/26/28 | | Colombia | | | 15,531,000,000 | | | | COP | | | | 5,844,879 | |
Province of Salta Argentina, | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e senior secured note, 144A, 9.50%, 3/16/22 | | Argentina | | | 1,986,300 | | | | | | | | 1,956,505 | |
b senior secured note, Reg S, 9.50%, 3/16/22 | | Argentina | | | 1,948,340 | | | | | | | | 1,919,115 | |
e Provincia de Neuquen Argentina, senior secured bond, 144A, 8.625%, 5/12/28 | | Argentina | | | 9,000,000 | | | | | | | | 8,342,865 | |
e Provincia de Tierra Del Fuego Argentina, senior secured bond, 144A, 8.95%, 4/17/27 | | Argentina | | | 3,700,000 | | | | | | | | 3,452,581 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 21,515,945 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels 2.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e Georgian Oil and Gas Corp. JSC, senior note, 144A, 6.75%, 4/26/21 | | Georgia | | | 6,000,000 | | | | | | | | 6,072,960 | |
e Petroleum Co. of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd., senior bond, 144A, 6.00%, 5/08/22 | | Trinidad and Tobago | | | 2,700,000 | | | | | | | | 2,573,721 | |
e Tullow Oil PLC, senior note, 144A, 7.00%, 3/01/25 | | Ghana | | | 3,800,000 | | | | | | | | 3,715,412 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | 12,362,093 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Real Estate Management & Development 0.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
b CIFI Holdings Group Co. Ltd., senior note, Reg S, 6.875%, 4/23/21 | | China | | | 1,200,000 | | | | | | | | 1,190,286 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Road & Rail 0.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e Kazakhstan Temir Zholy Finance BV, senior bond, 144A, 6.95%, 7/10/42 | | Kazakhstan | | | 4,000,000 | | | | | | | | 4,476,040 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods 1.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e Golden Legacy PT Ltd., senior note, 144A, 8.25%, 6/07/21 | | Indonesia | | | 5,000,000 | | | | | | | | 5,180,150 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Transportation Infrastructure 1.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e Mexico City Airport Trust, secured bond, 144A, 5.50%, 7/31/47 | | Mexico | | | 5,500,000 | | | | | | | | 4,953,850 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Quasi-Sovereign and Corporate Bonds
(Cost $162,507,115) | | | | | | | | | | | | | 139,009,399 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
12 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country/ Organization | | | Principal
Amount* | | | | | | Value | |
l Loan Participations and Assignments 17.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
f,h Credit Suisse First Boston International, (City of Kyiv), secured bond, Reg S, 8.00%, 11/06/15 | | | Ukraine | | | | 11,975,000 | | | | | | | $ | 10,672,719 | |
g,h Deutsche Bank AG (Government of Iraq), 2.571%, 1/01/28 | | | Iraq | | | | 790,300,188 | | | | JPY | | | | 4,619,547 | |
g,h,m Development Bank of South Africa Ltd. (Government of Angola),
Tranche 2, senior note, FRN, 8.747%, (6-month USD LIBOR + 6.25%), 12/20/23 | | | Angola | | | | 8,181,250 | | | | | | | | 7,767,416 | |
Tranche 3B, senior note, FRN, 8.747%, (6-month USD LIBOR + 6.25%), 12/20/23. | | | Angola | | | | 7,700,000 | | | | | | | | 7,310,509 | |
e Dilijan Finance BV, (Ardshinbank CJSC), senior note, 144A, 12.00%, 7/29/20 | | | Armenia | | | | 6,620,000 | | | | | | | | 7,116,500 | |
g,h,m Ethiopian Railway Corp. (Government of Ethiopia), FRN, 5.716%, (6-month USD LIBOR + 3.75%), 8/02/21 | | | Ethiopia | | | | 7,233,333 | | | | | | | | 7,170,535 | |
b FBN Finance Co. BV, (First Bank of Nigeria Ltd.), sub. note, Reg S, 8.00% to 7/23/19, FRN thereafter, 7/23/21 | | | Nigeria | | | | 8,800,000 | | | | | | | | 8,777,472 | |
a,g,h,k,n Global Distressed Alpha Fund III LP, PIK, 12.00%, Perpetual | | | United States | | | | 528,352 | | | | | | | | 525,438 | |
g,h,m Government of Iraq, Tranche A3, Sumitomo Corp. Loan, FRN, 0.563%, (6-month JPY LIBOR + 0.50%), 1/01/28 | | | Iraq | | | | 235,395,916 | | | | JPY | | | | 1,601,132 | |
g,h,m Merrill Lynch & Co. Inc. (Government of Iraq), FRN, 0.563%, (6-month JPY LIBOR + 0.50%), 1/01/28 | | | Iraq | | | | 411,957,112 | | | | JPY | | | | 2,802,078 | |
f,g,h NK Debt Corp.,
144A, zero cpn., 3/12/20 | | | North Korea | | | | 4,250,000 | | | | DEM | | | | — | |
Reg S, zero cpn., 3/12/20 | | | North Korea | | | | 2,000,000 | | | | CHF | | | | — | |
Reg S, zero cpn., 3/12/20 | | | North Korea | | | | 18,000,000 | | | | DEM | | | | — | |
e Oilflow SPV 1 DAC (Kurdistan Regional Government), secured note, 144A, 12.00%, 1/13/22 | | | Iraq | | | | 10,500,000 | | | | | | | | 10,929,135 | |
g,h,m Societe des Hydrocarbures du Tchad, Tranche B, FRN, 6.834%, (1-month USD LIBOR + 4.50%), 12/31/27 | | | Chad | | | | 16,478,377 | | | | | | | | 14,250,021 | |
e SSB No. 1 PLC (OJSC State Savings Bank of Ukraine), senior note, 144A, 9.625%, 3/20/25 | | | Ukraine | | | | 9,000,000 | | | | | | | | 9,248,085 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Loan Participations and Assignments
(Cost $96,863,981) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 92,790,587 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Foreign Government and Agency Securities 46.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Banque Centrale de Tunisie International Bond,
senior bond, 4.30%, 8/02/30 | | | Tunisia | | | | 610,000,000 | | | | JPY | | | | 4,422,214 | |
senior bond, 4.20%, 3/17/31 | | | Tunisia | | | | 680,000,000 | | | | JPY | | | | 5,009,716 | |
b senior note, Reg S, 5.75%, 1/30/25 | | | Tunisia | | | | 3,000,000 | | | | | | | | 2,756,820 | |
k Bonos De La Nacion Argentina En Moneda Dua,
senior note, PIK, 28.80%, 6/21/19 | | | Argentina | | | | 144,869,635 | | | | ARS | | | | 5,223,122 | |
senior note, PIK, 28.20%, 2/13/20 | | | Argentina | | | | 139,883,747 | | | | ARS | | | | 5,136,362 | |
e Dominican Republic, senior note, 144A, 8.90%, 2/15/23 | | | Dominican Republic | | | | 250,000,000 | | | | DOP | | | | 5,087,008 | |
European Bank for Reconstruction & Development, senior note, 6.85%, 6/21/21 | | | Supranational | o | | | 72,100,000,000 | | | | IDR | | | | 4,899,397 | |
b Government of Angola, senior note, Reg S, 9.50%, 11/12/25 | | | Angola | | | | 3,700,000 | | | | | | | | 4,212,728 | |
Government of Argentina, senior note, 5.875%, 1/11/28 | | | Argentina | | | | 6,200,000 | | | | | | | | 5,211,875 | |
e Government of Armenia, senior note, 144A, 7.15%, 3/26/25 | | | Armenia | | | | 3,300,000 | | | | | | | | 3,584,361 | |
e Government of Belarus International Bond, senior note, 144A, 6.875%, 2/28/23 | | | Belarus | | | | 3,000,000 | | | | | | | | 3,148,140 | |
b,m Government of Bosnia & Herzegovina, senior bond, B, Reg S, FRN, 0.50%, (6-month EUR LIBOR + 0.813%), 12/20/21 | | | Bosnia and Herzegovina | | | | 10,249,750 | | | | DEM | | | | 5,577,774 | |
e Government of Cameroon, senior note, 144A, 9.50%, 11/19/25 | | | Cameroon | | | | 8,300,000 | | | | | | | | 8,979,562 | |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 13 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country/ Organization | | | Principal
Amount* | | | | | | Value | |
Foreign Government and Agency Securities (continued) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Government of Egypt, | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
16.75%, 9/06/19 | | | Egypt | | | | 47,500,000 | | | | EGP | | | $ | 2,623,613 | |
18.15%, 6/13/20 | | | Egypt | | | | 21,000,000 | | | | EGP | | | | 1,174,384 | |
16.40%, 9/05/20 | | | Egypt | | | | 16,500,000 | | | | EGP | | | | 897,574 | |
b Government of El Salvador, senior bond, Reg S, 7.65%, 6/15/35 | | | El Salvador | | | | 13,900,000 | | | | | | | | 13,933,638 | |
b Government of Ethiopia, senior note, Reg S, 6.625%, 12/11/24 | | | Ethiopia | | | | 3,000,000 | | | | | | | | 3,065,460 | |
e Government of Gabon, senior note, 144A, 6.95%, 6/16/25 | | | Gabon | | | | 8,700,000 | | | | | | | | 8,263,347 | |
Government of Ghana,
24.75%, 7/19/21 | | | Ghana | | | | 17,500,000 | | | | GHS | | | | 4,213,094 | |
b senior bond, Reg S, 8.125%, 1/18/26 | | | Ghana | | | | 1,600,000 | | | | | | | | 1,729,112 | |
senior note, 18.25%, 7/25/22 | | | Ghana | | | | 35,450,000 | | | | GHS | | | | 7,542,239 | |
b Government of Iraq, Reg S, 5.80%, 1/15/28 | | | Iraq | | | | 11,100,000 | | | | | | | | 10,473,627 | |
e Government of Jordan, senior bond, 144A, 6.125%, 1/29/26 | | | Jordan | | | | 4,400,000 | | | | | | | | 4,385,326 | |
Government of Mexico, senior note, M, 5.00%, 12/11/19 | | | Mexico | | | | 2,721,000 | p | | | MXN | | | | 14,076,998 | |
Government of Russia, 7.00%, 8/16/23 | | | Russia | | | | 320,000,000 | | | | RUB | | | | 5,066,820 | |
Government of South Africa, senior bond, 7.00%, 2/28/31 | | | South Africa | | | | 300,000,000 | | | | ZAR | | | | 19,250,371 | |
e Government of Suriname, senior note, 144A, 9.25%, 10/26/26 | | | Suriname | | | | 5,250,000 | | | | | | | | 5,145,000 | |
Government of Turkey, 8.50%, 7/10/19 | | | Turkey | | | | 63,110,000 | | | | TRY | | | | 11,728,933 | |
Government of Uganda, 13.75%, 6/13/19 | | | Uganda | | | | 10,750,000,000 | | | | UGX | | | | 2,917,597 | |
e Government of Ukraine, senior bond, 144A, 7.375%, 9/25/32 | | | Ukraine | | | | 6,500,000 | | | | | | | | 5,910,905 | |
j Government of Uruguay, senior bond, Index Linked, 3.70%, 6/26/37 | | | Uruguay | | | | 536,484,623 | | | | UYU | | | | 18,482,251 | |
b,f Government of Venezuela,
senior bond, Reg S, 7.65%, 4/21/25 | | | Venezuela | | | | 13,500,000 | | | | | | | | 3,664,575 | |
senior bond, Reg S, 9.25%, 5/07/28 | | | Venezuela | | | | 5,000,000 | | | | | | | | 1,365,625 | |
Grenada Government International Bond, | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e senior bond, 144A, 7.00%, 5/12/30 | | | Grenada | | | | 6,765,966 | | | | | | | | 6,275,433 | |
b senior bond, Reg S, 7.00%, 5/12/30 | | | Grenada | | | | 1,331,352 | | | | | | | | 1,234,829 | |
g International Finance Corp., senior note, 10.25%, 12/05/18 | | | Supranational | o | | | 3,407,800 | | | | AZN | | | | 1,965,906 | |
Kenya Infrastructure Bond,
11.00%, 9/15/25 | | | Kenya | | | | 460,000,000 | | | | KES | | | | 4,484,680 | |
12.50%, 1/10/33 | | | Kenya | | | | 239,800,000 | | | | KES | | | | 2,505,039 | |
senior note, 12.50%, 5/12/25 | | | Kenya | | | | 278,000,000 | | | | KES | | | | 2,861,256 | |
e,f Mozambique International Bond, senior note, 144A, 10.50%, 1/18/23 | | | Mozambique | | | | 7,900,000 | | | | | | | | 6,674,809 | |
e Peruvian Government International Bond, senior bond, 144A, 6.35%, 8/12/28 | | | Peru | | | | 17,700,000 | | | | PEN | | | | 5,790,627 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Foreign Government and Agency Securities
(Cost $254,158,958) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 240,952,147 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | Shares | | | | | | | |
Common Stocks 0.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
c,g,h Astana Finance JSC, GDR, 144A | | | Kazakhstan | | | | 193,625 | | | | | | | | — | |
c Oi SA, ADR | | | Brazil | | | | 314,342 | | | | | | | | 1,241,651 | |
c,g,h K2016470219 South Africa Ltd., A | | | South Africa | | | | 55,882,058 | | | | | | | | 42,357 | |
c,g,h K2016470219 South Africa Ltd., B | | | South Africa | | | | 5,561,052 | | | | | | | | 4,215 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Common Stocks (Cost $4,237,740) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 1,288,223 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
14 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country/ Organization | | | Units | | | | | | Value | |
Private Limited Partnership Fund (Cost $4,600,000) 0.0%† | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Diversified Financial Services 0.0%† | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a,c,g,h,q Global Distressed Alpha Fund III LP | | | United States | | | | 4,424,861 | | | | | | | $ | 227,836 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Investments before Short Term Investments
(Cost $554,416,360) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 485,492,070 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | Principal
Amount* | | | | | | | |
Short Term Investments 3.6% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
Foreign Government and Agency Securities 1.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
r Egypt Treasury Bill, 2/26/19 | | | Egypt | | | | 35,450,000 | | | | EGP | | | | 1,797,224 | |
g,m European Bank for Reconstruction & Development, senior note, FRN, 7.108%, (91 Day KZT T-Bill - 1.30%), 2/21/19 | | | Supranational | o | | | 1,800,000,000 | | | | KZT | | | | 5,178,608 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Foreign Government and Agency Securities
(Cost $7,343,431) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 6,975,832 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Investments before Money Market Funds
(Cost $561,759,791) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 492,467,902 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | | Shares | | | | | | | |
Money Market Funds (Cost $11,538,315) 2.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
s,t Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio, 1.57% | | | United States | | | | 11,538,315 | | | | | | | | 11,538,315 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Investments (Cost $573,298,106) 97.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 504,006,217 | |
Other Assets, less Liabilities 2.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 14,338,020 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Assets 100.0% | | | | | | | | | | | | | | $ | 518,344,237 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 15 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
†Rounds to less than 0.1% of net assets.
*The principal amount is stated in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated.
aThe security is owned by Alternative Strategies (FT) Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund. See Note 1(f).
bSecurity was purchased pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside of the United States. Such a security cannot be sold in the United States without either an effective registration statement filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, or pursuant to an exemption from registration. These securities have been deemed liquid under guidelines approved by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. At July 31, 2018, the aggregate value of these securities was $98,514,055, representing 19.0% of net assets.
cNon-income producing.
dThe principal represents the notional amount. See Note 1(c) regarding value recovery instruments.
eSecurity was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be sold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers or in a public offering registered under the Securities Act of 1933. These securities have been deemed liquid under guidelines approved by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. At July 31, 2018, the aggregate value of these securities was $195,220,536, representing 37.7% of net assets.
fSee Note 7 regarding defaulted securities.
gFair valued using significant unobservable inputs. See Note 12 regarding fair value measurements.
hSee Note 9 regarding restricted securities.
iRepresents claims that have been filed with a Ghanaian court against National Investments Bank of Ghana.
jPrincipal amount of security is adjusted for inflation. See Note 1(h).
kIncome may be received in additional securities and/or cash.
lSee Note 1(e) regarding loan participations and assignments.
mThe coupon rate shown represents the rate at period end.
nPerpetual security with no stated maturity date.
oA supranational organization is an entity formed by two or more central governments through international treaties.
pPrincipal amount is stated in 100 Mexican Peso Units.
qThe Global Distressed Alpha Fund III LP is a fund focused on the purchase of and the recovery on private distressed commercial, sovereign and sovereign-related debt claims around the world, principally in Africa and Asia.
rThe security was issued on a discount basis with no stated coupon rate.
sSee Note 3(d) regarding investments in affiliated management investment companies.
tThe rate shown is the annualized seven-day effective yield at period end.
At July 31, 2018, the Fund had the following forward exchange contracts outstanding. See Note 1(c).
Forward Exchange Contracts
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Currency | | Counterpartya | | | Type | | | Quantity | | | Contract
Amount | | | Settlement
Date | | | Unrealized
Appreciation | | | Unrealized
Depreciation | |
OTC Forward Exchange Contracts | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Euro | | | CITI | | | | Sell | | | | 1,300,000 | | | | $1,547,169 | | | | 9/18/18 | | | | $ 21,011 | | | | $ — | |
Euro | | | MSCO | | | | Sell | | | | 2,000,000 | | | | 2,384,458 | | | | 9/18/18 | | | | 36,523 | | | | — | |
Euro | | | RBCCM | | | | Sell | | | | 2,000,000 | | | | 2,383,260 | | | | 9/18/18 | | | | 35,325 | | | | — | |
Japanese Yen | | | CITI | | | | Sell | | | | 730,000,000 | | | | 6,687,186 | | | | 9/18/18 | | | | 136,052 | | | | — | |
Japanese Yen | | | MSCO | | | | Sell | | | | 700,000,000 | | | | 6,410,626 | | | | 9/18/18 | | | | 128,716 | | | | — | |
Japanese Yen | | | RBCCM | | | | Sell | | | | 700,000,000 | | | | 6,410,667 | | | | 9/18/18 | | | | 128,757 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Forward Exchange Contracts | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | $486,384 | | | | $ — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | $486,384 | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
aMay be comprised of multiple contracts with the same counterparty, currency and settlement date.
See Note 10 regarding other derivative information.
See Abbreviations on page 33.
| | | | |
16 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2018
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
| | | | |
Assets: | | | | |
Investments in securities: | | | | |
Cost - Unaffiliated issuers | | | $561,759,791 | |
Cost - Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3d) | | | 11,538,315 | |
| | | | |
Value - Unaffiliated issuers | | | $492,467,902 | |
Value - Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3d) | | | 11,538,315 | |
Cash | | | 7,236,264 | |
Restricted cash for OTC derivative contracts (Note 1d) | | | 300,000 | |
Foreign currency, at value (cost $1,292,108) | | | 1,286,827 | |
Receivables: | | | | |
Capital shares sold | | | 342,055 | |
Interest | | | 6,601,497 | |
Unrealized appreciation on OTC forward exchange contracts | | | 486,384 | |
Other assets | | | 255 | |
| | | | |
Total assets | | | 520,259,499 | |
| | | | |
Liabilities: | | | | |
Payables: | | | | |
Investment securities purchased | | | 1,036,270 | |
Capital shares redeemed | | | 67,873 | |
Management fees | | | 299,128 | |
Transfer agent fees | | | 10,363 | |
Deposits from brokers for: OTC derivative contracts | | | 300,000 | |
Deferred tax | | | 24,654 | |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | | | 176,974 | |
| | | | |
Total liabilities | | | 1,915,262 | |
| | | | |
Net assets, at value | | | $518,344,237 | |
| | | | |
Net assets consist of: | | | | |
Paid-in capital | | | $575,660,046 | |
Undistributed net investment income | | | 12,215,504 | |
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | (68,868,181 | ) |
Accumulated net realized gain (loss) | | | (663,132 | ) |
| | | | |
Net assets, at value | | | $518,344,237 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 44,372,008 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share | | | $11.68 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. | Annual Report | | 17 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Consolidated Statement of Operations
for the year ended July 31, 2018
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
| | | | |
Investment income: | | | | |
Dividends: | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | $ | 4,704,878 | |
Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3d) | | | 164,905 | |
Interest: (net of foreign taxes)~
Unaffiliated issuers | | | 39,369,459 | |
| | | | |
Total investment income | | | 44,239,242 | |
| | | | |
Expenses: | | | | |
Management fees (Note 3a) | | | 5,290,678 | |
Transfer agent fees (Note 3c) | | | 112,847 | |
Custodian fees (Note 4) | | | 135,427 | |
Reports to shareholders | | | 12,076 | |
Registration and filing fees | | | 41,375 | |
Professional fees | | | 191,727 | |
Trustees’ fees and expenses | | | 21,202 | |
Other | | | 24,854 | |
| | | | |
Total expenses | | | 5,830,186 | |
Expense reductions (Note 4) | | | (1,191 | ) |
Expenses waived/paid by affiliates (Note 3d and 3e) | | | (505,457 | ) |
| | | | |
Net expenses | | | 5,323,538 | |
| | | | |
Net investment income. | | | 38,915,704 | |
| | | | |
Realized and unrealized gains (losses): | | | | |
Net realized gain (loss) from: | | | | |
Investments:#
Unaffiliated issuers | | | (2,866,872 | ) |
Foreign currency transactions | | | (525,268 | ) |
Forward exchange contracts | | | 87,145 | |
| | | | |
Net realized gain (loss) | | | (3,304,995 | ) |
| | | | |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | | | | |
Investments:
Unaffiliated issuers | | | (15,027,188 | ) |
Translation of other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. | | | (37,921 | ) |
Forward exchange contracts | | | 740,991 | |
Change in deferred taxes on unrealized appreciation | | | 19,956 | |
| | | | |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | (14,304,162 | ) |
| | | | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | | | (17,609,157 | ) |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | | $ | 21,306,547 | |
| | | | |
| |
~Foreign taxes withheld on interest | | $ | 272,756 | |
#Net of foreign taxes | | $ | 14,472 | |
| | | | |
18 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, | |
| | | | |
| | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017 | |
| |
| | |
Increase (decrease) in net assets: | | | | | | | | |
Operations: | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | 38,915,704 | | | $ | 38,585,339 | |
Net realized gain (loss) | | | (3,304,995 | ) | | | (15,437,575 | ) |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | (14,304,162 | ) | | | 23,420,308 | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations. | | | 21,306,547 | | | | 46,568,072 | |
| | | | |
Distributions to shareholders from: | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (20,540,417 | ) | | | — | |
Net realized gains | | | (1,497,051 | ) | | | (3,393,271 | ) |
| | | | |
Total distributions to shareholders | | | (22,037,468 | ) | | | (3,393,271 | ) |
| | | | |
Capital share transactions (Note 2) | | | 4,669,126 | | | | (81,603,355 | ) |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets. | | | 3,938,205 | | | | (38,428,554 | ) |
Net assets: | | | | | | | | |
Beginning of year | | | 514,406,032 | | | | 552,834,586 | |
| | | | |
End of year | | $ | 518,344,237 | | | $ | 514,406,032 | |
| | | | |
Undistributed net investment income included in net assets: | | | | | | | | |
End of year | | $ | 12,215,504 | | | $ | 2,759,171 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. | Annual Report | | 19 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
for the year ended July 31, 2018
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
| | | | |
Cash flow from operating activities: | | | | |
Dividends, interest and other income received | | $ | 39,714,452 | |
Operating expenses paid | | | (5,310,810 | ) |
Purchases of long-term investments | | | (174,393,761 | ) |
Deposits from brokers | | | 300,000 | |
Realized loss on foreign currency transactions | | | (438,123 | ) |
Sales and maturities of long-term investments | | | 166,800,711 | |
Net purchases of short-term investments | | | (7,658,982 | ) |
| | | | |
Cash provided - operating activities | | | 19,013,487 | |
| | | | |
Cash flow from financing activities: | | | | |
Proceeds from shares sold | | | 174,503,635 | |
Payment of shares redeemed | | | (191,973,797 | ) |
Cash distributions to shareholders | | | (243,335 | ) |
| | | | |
Cash used - financing activities | | | (17,713,497 | ) |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in cash | | | 1,299,990 | |
Cash, restricted cash and foreign currency at beginning of year | | | 7,526,240 | |
Effect of exchange rate changes on foreign currency | | | (3,139 | ) |
| | | | |
Cash, restricted cash and foreign currency at end of year | | $ | 8,823,091 | |
| | | | |
| |
Reconciliation of Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets resulting from Operating Activities to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities for the year ended July 31, 2018 | | | | |
| |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operating activities | | $ | 21,306,547 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operating activities to net cash provided by operating activities: | | | | |
Net amortization income | | | (4,523,756 | ) |
Reinvested dividends from non-controlled affiliates | | | (164,905 | ) |
Interest received in the form of securities | | | (361,996 | ) |
Decrease in dividends and interest receivable and other assets | | | 887,863 | |
Increase in deposits from brokers | | | 300,000 | |
Increase in payable to affiliates, accrued expenses, and other liabilities | | | 12,728 | |
Decrease in payable for investments purchased | | | (2,446,854 | ) |
Increase in cost of investments. | | | (10,300,302 | ) |
Increase in unrealized appreciation on investments | | | 14,304,162 | |
| | | | |
Net cash provided by operating activities | | $ | 19,013,487 | |
| | | | |
Non cash financing activities - reinvestment of dividends | | $ | 21,794,133 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
20 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies
Franklin Global Trust (Trust) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) as an open-end management investment company, consisting of four separate funds and applies the specialized accounting and reporting guidance in U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP). Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (Fund) is included in this report.
The following summarizes the Fund’s significant accounting policies.
a. Financial Instrument Valuation
The Fund’s investments in financial instruments are carried at fair value daily. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The Fund calculates the net asset value (NAV) per share each business day as of 4 p.m. Eastern time or the regularly scheduled close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), whichever is earlier. Under compliance policies and procedures approved by the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the Board), the Fund’s administrator has responsibility for oversight of valuation, including leading the cross-functional Valuation Committee (VC). The VC provides administration and oversight of the Fund’s valuation policies and procedures, which are approved annually by the Board. Among other things, these procedures allow the Fund to utilize independent pricing services, quotations from securities and financial instrument dealers, and other market sources to determine fair value.
Equity securities listed on an exchange or on the NASDAQ National Market System are valued at the last quoted sale price or the official closing price of the day, respectively. Foreign equity securities are valued as of the close of trading on the foreign stock exchange on which the security is primarily traded, or as of 4 p.m. Eastern time. The value is then converted into its U.S. dollar equivalent at the foreign exchange rate in effect at 4 p.m. Eastern time on the day that the value of the security is determined. Over-the-counter (OTC) securities are valued within the range of the most recent quoted bid and ask prices. Securities that trade in multiple markets or on multiple exchanges are valued according to the broadest and most representative market. Certain equity securities are valued based upon fundamental characteristics or relationships to similar securities.
Debt securities generally trade in the OTC market rather than on a securities exchange. The Fund’s pricing services use multiple valuation techniques to determine fair value. In instances where sufficient market activity exists, the pricing services may utilize a market-based approach through which quotes from market makers are used to determine fair value. In instances where sufficient market activity may not exist or is limited, the pricing services also utilize proprietary valuation models which may consider market characteristics such as benchmark yield curves, credit spreads, estimated default rates, anticipated market interest rate volatility, coupon rates, anticipated timing of principal repayments, underlying collateral, and other unique security features in order to estimate the relevant cash flows, which are then discounted to calculate the fair value. Securities denominated in a foreign currency are converted into their U.S. dollar equivalent at the foreign exchange rate in effect at 4 p.m. Eastern time on the date that the values of the foreign debt securities are determined.
Investments in open-end mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV.
Certain derivative financial instruments trade in the OTC market. The Fund’s pricing services use various techniques including industry standard option pricing models and proprietary discounted cash flow models to determine the fair value of those instruments. The Fund’s net benefit or obligation under the derivative contract, as measured by the fair value of the contract, is included in net assets.
The Fund has procedures to determine the fair value of financial instruments for which market prices are not reliable or readily available. Under these procedures, the VC convenes on a regular basis to review such financial instruments and considers a number of factors, including significant unobservable valuation inputs, when arriving at fair value. The VC primarily employs a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the investment to determine the fair value of the investment. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the investment are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the investments. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuations of such investments, the fair values may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had an active market existed. The VC employs various methods for calibrating these
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 21 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
a. Financial Instrument Valuation (continued)
valuation approaches including a regular review of key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing or disposition analysis, and reviews of any related market activity.
Trading in securities on foreign securities stock exchanges and OTC markets may be completed before 4 p.m. Eastern time. In addition, trading in certain foreign markets may not take place on every Fund’s business day. Occasionally, events occur between the time at which trading in a foreign security is completed and 4 p.m. Eastern time that might call into question the reliability of the value of a portfolio security held by the Fund. As a result, differences may arise between the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities as determined at the foreign market close and the latest indications of value at 4 p.m. Eastern time. In order to minimize the potential for these differences, the VC monitors price movements following the close of trading in foreign stock markets through a series of country specific market proxies (such as baskets of American Depositary Receipts, futures contracts and exchange traded funds). These price movements are measured against established trigger thresholds for each specific market proxy to assist in determining if an event has occurred that may call into question the reliability of the values of the foreign securities held by the Fund. If such an event occurs, the securities may be valued using fair value procedures, which may include the use of independent pricing services.
When the last day of the reporting period is a non-business day, certain foreign markets may be open on those days that the Fund’s NAV is not calculated, which could result in differences between the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities on the last business day and the last calendar day of the reporting period. Any significant security valuation changes due to an open foreign market are adjusted and reflected by the Fund for financial reporting purposes.
b. Foreign Currency Translation
Portfolio securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the exchange rate of such currencies against U.S. dollars on the date of valuation. The Fund may enter into foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of securities, income and
expense items denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect on the transaction date. Portfolio securities and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies contain risks that those currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Occasionally, events may impact the availability or reliability of foreign exchange rates used to convert the U.S. dollar equivalent value. If such an event occurs, the foreign exchange rate will be valued at fair value using procedures established and approved by the Board.
The Fund does not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices on securities held. Such changes are included in net realized and unrealized gain or loss from investments in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
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 recorded amounts of dividends, interest, and foreign withholding taxes and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in foreign exchange rates on foreign denominated assets and liabilities other than investments in securities held at the end of the reporting period.
c. Derivative Financial Instruments
The Fund invested in derivative financial instruments in order to manage risk or gain exposure to various other investments or markets. Derivatives are financial contracts based on an underlying or notional amount, require no initial investment or an initial net investment that is smaller than would normally be required to have a similar response to changes in market factors, and require or permit net settlement. Derivatives contain various risks including the potential inability of the counterparty to fulfill their obligations under the terms of the contract, the potential for an illiquid secondary market, and/or the potential for market movements which expose the Fund to gains or losses in excess of the amounts shown in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Realized gain and loss and unrealized appreciation and depreciation on these contracts for the period are included in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
Derivative counterparty credit risk is managed through a formal evaluation of the creditworthiness of all potential counterparties. The Fund attempts to reduce its exposure to
| | | | |
22 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
counterparty credit risk on OTC derivatives, whenever possible, by entering into International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) master agreements with certain counterparties. These agreements contain various provisions, including but not limited to collateral requirements, events of default, or early termination. Termination events applicable to the counterparty include certain deteriorations in the credit quality of the counterparty. Termination events applicable to the Fund include failure of the Fund to maintain certain net asset levels and/or limit the decline in net assets over various periods of time. In the event of default or early termination, the ISDA master agreement gives the non-defaulting party the right to net and close-out all transactions traded, whether or not arising under the ISDA agreement, to one net amount payable by one counterparty to the other. However, absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Early termination by the counterparty may result in an immediate payment by the Fund of any net liability owed to that counterparty under the ISDA agreement. At July 31, 2018, the Fund had no OTC derivatives in a net liability position for such contracts.
Collateral requirements differ by type of derivative. Collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives. For OTC derivatives traded under an ISDA master agreement, posting of collateral is required by either the Fund or the applicable counterparty if the total net exposure of all OTC derivatives with the applicable counterparty exceeds the minimum transfer amount, which typically ranges from $100,000 to $250,000, and can vary depending on the counterparty and the type of the agreement. Generally, collateral is determined at the close of Fund business each day and any additional collateral required due to changes in derivative values may be delivered by the Fund or the counterparty the next business day, or within a few business days. Collateral pledged and/or received by the Fund, if any, is held in segregated accounts with the Fund’s custodian/counterparty broker and can be in the form of cash and/or securities. Unrestricted cash may be invested according to the Fund’s investment objectives. To the extent that the amounts due to the Fund from its counterparties are not subject to collateralization or are not fully collateralized, the Fund bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.
The Fund entered into OTC forward exchange contracts primarily to manage and/or gain exposure to certain foreign currencies. A forward exchange contract is an agreement between the Fund and a counterparty to buy or sell a foreign currency at a specific exchange rate on a future date.
The Fund invests in value recovery instruments (VRI) primarily to gain exposure to economic growth. Periodic payments from VRI are dependent on established benchmarks for underlying variables. VRI has a notional amount, which is used to calculate amounts of payments to holders. Payments are recorded upon receipt as realized gains in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The risks of investing in VRI include growth risk, liquidity, and the potential loss of investment.
See Note 10 regarding other derivative information.
d. Restricted Cash
At July 31, 2018, the Fund held restricted cash in connection with investments in certain derivative securities. Restricted cash is held in a segregated account with the Fund’s custodian and is reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
e. Loan Participations and Assignments
The Fund may invest in debt instruments which are interests in amounts owed to lenders or lending syndicates by corporate, governmental, or other borrowers. The Fund’s investments in loans may be in the form of participations in loans or assignments of all or portion of loans from third parties. A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution (the Lender) that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. The Fund may invest in multiple series or tranches of a loan, which may have varying terms and carry different associated risks. When investing in a loan participation, a Fund has the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees only from the lender selling the loan and only upon receipt of payments from the borrower. The Fund generally has no right to enforce compliance with the terms of the loan agreement with the borrower. As a result, the Fund may be subject to credit risk of both the borrower and the lender that is selling the loan. When the Fund purchases assignments from lenders it acquires direct rights against the borrower of the loan.
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 23 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
f. Investments in Alternative Strategies (FT) Ltd. (FT Subsidiary)
The Fund invests in certain financial instruments, warrants or commodities through its investments in the FT Subsidiary. The FT Subsidiary is a Cayman Islands exempted company with limited liability, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund, and is able to invest in certain financial instruments consistent with the investment objective of the Fund. At July 31, 2018, the FT Subsidiary’s investments as well as any other assets and liabilities of the FT Subsidiary are reflected in the Fund’s Consolidated Statement of Investments and Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The financial statements have been consolidated and include the accounts of the Fund and the FT Subsidiary. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. At July 31, 2018, the net assets of the FT Subsidiary were $7,231,136, representing 1.4% of the Fund’s consolidated net assets. The Fund’s investment in the FT Subsidiary is limited to 25% of consolidated assets.
g. Income and Deferred Taxes
It is the Fund’s policy to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code. The Fund intends to distribute to shareholders substantially all of its taxable income and net realized gains to relieve it from federal income and excise taxes. As a result, no provision for U.S. federal income taxes is required.
The Fund may be subject to foreign taxation related to income received, capital gains on the sale of securities and certain foreign currency transactions in the foreign jurisdictions in which it invests. Foreign taxes, if any, are recorded based on the tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign markets in which the Fund invests. When a capital gain tax is determined to apply, the Fund records an estimated deferred tax liability in an amount that would be payable if the securities were disposed of on the valuation date.
The Fund may recognize an income tax liability related to its uncertain tax positions under U.S. GAAP when the uncertain tax position has a less than 50% probability that it will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities based on its technical merits. As of July 31, 2018, the Fund has determined that no tax liability is required in its financial statements related to uncertain tax positions for any open tax years (or expected to
be taken in future tax years). Open tax years are those that remain subject to examination and are based on the statute of limitations in each jurisdiction in which the Fund invests.
h. Security Transactions, Investment Income, Expenses and Distributions
Security transactions are accounted for on trade date. Realized gains and losses on security transactions are determined on a specific identification basis. Interest income and estimated expenses are accrued daily. Amortization of premium and accretion of discount on debt securities are included in interest income. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date except for certain dividends from securities where the dividend rate is not available. In such cases, the dividend is recorded as soon as the information is received by the Fund. Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributable earnings are determined according to income tax regulations (tax basis) and may differ from earnings recorded in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These differences may be permanent or temporary. Permanent differences are reclassified among capital accounts to reflect their tax character. These reclassifications have no impact on net assets or the results of operations. Temporary differences are not reclassified, as they may reverse in subsequent periods.
Common expenses incurred by the Trust are allocated among the Funds based on the ratio of net assets of each Fund to the combined net assets of the Trust or based on the ratio of number of shareholders of each Fund to the combined number of shareholders of the Trust. Fund specific expenses are charged directly to the Fund that incurred the expense.
Inflation-indexed bonds are adjusted for inflation through periodic increases or decreases in the security’s interest accruals, face amount, or principal redemption value, by amounts corresponding to the rate of inflation as measured by an index. Any increase or decrease in the face amount or principal redemption value will be included as interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
i. Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
| | | | |
24 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
j. Guarantees and Indemnifications
Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified by the Trust against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, enters into contracts with service providers
that contain general indemnification clauses. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Trust expects the risk of loss to be remote.
2. Shares of Beneficial Interest
At July 31, 2018, there were an unlimited number of shares authorized (without par value). Transactions in the Fund’s shares were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | Year Ended July 31, | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017 | |
| | | | |
| | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Shares | | | Amount | |
Shares sold | | | 14,713,920 | | | $ | 174,801,078 | | | | 7,726,411 | | | $ | 86,256,255 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 1,875,571 | | | | 21,794,133 | | | | 299,660 | | | | 3,257,301 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (16,241,776) | | | | (191,926,085) | | | | (15,380,317) | | | | (171,116,911) | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 347,715 | | | $ | 4,669,126 | | | | (7,354,246) | | | $ | (81,603,355) | |
| | | | |
3. Transactions with Affiliates
Franklin Resources, Inc. is the holding company for various subsidiaries that together are referred to as Franklin Templeton Investments. Certain officers and trustees of the Trust are also officers and/or directors of the following subsidiaries:
| | |
| Subsidiary | | Affiliation |
Franklin Templeton Investment Management Limited (FTIML) | | Investment manager |
Franklin Templeton Services, LLC (FT Services) | | Administrative manager |
Franklin Templeton Investor Services, LLC (Investor Services) | | Transfer agent |
a. Management Fees
The Fund and FT Subsidiary pay an investment management fee to FTIML based on the average daily net assets of each of the Fund and FT Subsidiary as follows:
| | |
| Annualized Fee Rate | | Net Assets |
1.000% | | Up to and including $500 million |
0.900% | | Over $500 million, up to and including $1 billion |
0.850% | | In excess of $1 billion |
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the gross effective investment management fee rate was 0.994% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.
Management fees paid by the Fund are reduced on assets invested in the FT Subsidiary, in an amount not to exceed the management fees paid by the FT Subsidiary.
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 25 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
3. Transactions with Affiliates (continued)
b. Administrative Fees
Under an agreement with FTIML, FT Services provides administrative services to the Fund and FT Subsidiary. The fee is paid by FTIML based on each of the Fund’s and FT Subsidiary’s average daily net assets, and is not an additional expense of the Fund or FT Subsidiary.
c. Transfer Agent Fees
The Fund pays transfer agent fees to Investor Services for its performance of shareholder servicing obligations. Effective November 1, 2017, the fees are based on an annualized asset based fee of 0.02% plus a transaction based fee. Prior to November 1, 2017, the fees were account based fees that varied based on fund or account type. In addition, the Fund reimburses Investor Services for out of pocket expenses incurred and shareholder servicing fees paid to third parties.
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the Fund paid transfer agent fees of $112,847, of which $99,773 was retained by Investor Services.
d. Investments in Affiliated Management Investment Companies
The Fund invests in one or more affiliated management investment companies for purposes other than exercising a controlling influence over the management or policies. Management fees paid by the Fund are waived on assets invested in the affiliated management investment companies, as noted in the Consolidated Statement of Operations, in an amount not to exceed the management and administrative fees paid directly or indirectly by each affiliate. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the Fund held investments in affiliated management investment companies as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Number of
Shares Held
at Beginning
of Year | | | Gross
Additions | | | Gross
Reductions | | | Number of
Shares
Held at End
of Year | | | Value at End of Year | | | Dividend
Income | | | Realized
Gain
(Loss) | | | Net Change in Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation) | |
Non-Controlled Affiliates | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio, 1.57% | | | 11,026,616 | | | | 176,540,323 | | | | (176,028,624 | ) | | | 11,538,315 | | | $ | 11,538,315 | | | $ | 164,905 | | | | $ — | | | | $ — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
e. Waiver and Expense Reimbursements
FTIML has contractually agreed in advance to waive or limit its fees and to assume as its own expense certain expenses otherwise payable by the Fund so that the expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses) do not exceed 1.00% (other than certain non-routine expenses or costs, including those relating to litigation, indemnification, reorganizations, and liquidations) until November 30, 2018. Total expenses waived or paid are not subject to recapture subsequent to the Fund’s fiscal year end.
f. Other Affiliated Transactions
At July 31, 2018, one or more of the funds in Franklin Fund Allocator Series owned 21.3% of the Fund’s outstanding shares.
4. Expense Offset Arrangement
The Fund has entered into an arrangement with its custodian whereby credits realized as a result of uninvested cash balances are used to reduce a portion of the Fund’s custodian expenses. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the custodian fees were reduced as noted in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
| | | | |
26 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
5. Income Taxes
For tax purposes, the Fund may elect to defer any portion of a post-October capital loss to the first day of the following fiscal year. At July 31, 2018, the Fund deferred post-October capital losses of $662,328.
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended July 31, 2018 and 2017, was as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017 | |
| | | | |
Distributions paid from: | | | | | | | | |
Ordinary income | | | $20,544,380 | | | | $1,029,830 | |
Long term capital gain | | | 1,493,088 | | | | 2,363,441 | |
| | | | |
| | | $22,037,468 | | | | $3,393,271 | |
| | | | |
At July 31, 2018, the cost of investments, net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), and undistributed ordinary income for income tax purposes were as follows:
| | | | |
Cost of investments | | $ | 548,543,826 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Unrealized appreciation | | $ | 41,932,938 | |
Unrealized depreciation | | | (85,984,163) | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | $ | (44,051,225) | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Distributable earnings: | | | | |
Undistributed ordinary income | | $ | 21,037,722 | |
| | | | |
Differences between income and/or capital gains as determined on a book basis and a tax basis are primarily due to differing treatments of defaulted securities, foreign currency transactions and bond discounts and premiums.
6. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investments (excluding short term securities) for the year ended July 31, 2018, aggregated $171,946,907 and $166,705,530, respectively.
7. Credit Risk and Defaulted Securities
At July 31, 2018, the Fund had 81.2% of its portfolio invested in high yield or other securities rated below investment grade and unrated securities, if any. These securities may be more sensitive to economic conditions causing greater price volatility and are potentially subject to a greater risk of loss due to default than higher rated securities.
The Fund held defaulted securities and/or other securities for which the income has been deemed uncollectible. At July 31, 2018, the aggregate value of these securities was $30,987,728, representing 6.0% of the Fund’s net assets. The Fund discontinues accruing income on securities for which income has been deemed uncollectible and provides an estimate for losses on interest receivable. The securities have been identified in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Investments.
8. Concentration of Risk
Investing in foreign securities may include certain risks and considerations not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities, such as fluctuating currency values and changing local and regional economic, political and social conditions, which may result in greater market volatility. In addition, certain foreign securities may not be as liquid as U.S. securities.
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 27 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
9. Restricted Securities
The Fund invests in securities that are restricted under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act). Restricted securities are often purchased in private placement transactions, and cannot be sold without prior registration unless the sale is pursuant to an exemption under the 1933 Act. Disposal of these securities may require greater effort and expense, and prompt sale at an acceptable price may be difficult. The Fund may have registration rights for restricted securities. The issuer generally incurs all registration costs.
At July 31, 2018, investments in restricted securities, excluding securities exempt from registration under the 1933 Act deemed to be liquid, were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Principal
Amount*/
Units | | | | | Issuer | | Acquisition Date | | | Cost | | | Value | |
193,625 | | | | | | Astana Finance JSC, GDR, 144A | | | 5/22/15 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
136,566 | | | | | | Astana Finance JSC, secured note, 144A, zero cpn., 12/22/24 | | | 5/22/15 | | | | — | | | | 1,366 | |
11,975,000 | | | | | | Credit Suisse First Boston International, (City of Kyiv), secured bond, Reg S, 8.00%, 11/06/15 | | | 5/19/15 - 11/23/15 | | | | 11,651,303 | | | | 10,672,719 | |
790,300,188 | | | JPY | | | Deutsche Bank AG (Government of Iraq), 2.571%, 1/01/28 | | | 1/26/17 | | | | 4,742,286 | | | | 4,619,547 | |
8,181,250 | | | | | | Development Bank of South Africa Ltd. (Government of Angola), Tranche 2, senior note, FRN, 8.747%, (6-month USD LIBOR + 6.25%), 12/20/23 | | | 12/16/13 | | | | 8,181,250 | | | | 7,767,416 | |
7,700,000 | | | | | | Development Bank of South Africa Ltd. (Government of Angola), Tranche 3B, senior note, FRN, 8.747%, (6-month USD LIBOR + 6.25%), 12/20/23 | | | 6/06/14 | | | | 7,700,000 | | | | 7,310,509 | |
7,233,333 | | | | | | Ethiopian Railway Corp. (Government of Ethiopia), FRN, 5.716%, (6-month USD LIBOR + 3.75%), 8/02/21 | | | 8/04/14 - 1/15/16 | | | | 6,993,342 | | | | 7,170,535 | |
4,424,861 | | | | | | Global Distressed Alpha Fund III LP | | | 10/11/12 -1/22/16 | | | | 4,600,000 | | | | 227,836 | |
528,352 | | | | | | Global Distressed Alpha Fund III LP, PIK, 12.00%, Perpetual | | | 12/28/16 - 6/30/18 | | | | 528,350 | | | | 525,438 | |
235,395,916 | | | JPY | | | Government of Iraq, Tranche A3, Sumitomo Corp. Loan, FRN, 0.563%, (6-month JPY LIBOR + 0.50%), 1/01/28 | | | 10/16/07 -1/06/11 | | | | 1,437,793 | | | | 1,601,132 | |
55,882,058 | | | | | | K2016470219 South Africa Ltd., A | | | 2/08/13 - 2/01/17 | | | | 429,250 | | | | 42,357 | |
5,561,052 | | | | | | K2016470219 South Africa Ltd., B | | | 2/01/17 | | | | 4,129 | | | | 4,215 | |
4,299,065 | | | | | | K2016470219 South Africa Ltd., senior secured note, 144A, PIK, 3.00%, 12/31/22 | | | 2/08/13 - 7/05/18 | | | | 6,968,731 | | | | 5,360 | |
831,443 | | | | | | K2016470260 South Africa Ltd., senior secured note, 144A, PIK, 25.00%, 12/31/22 | | | 2/01/17 - 7/05/18 | | | | 728,954 | | | | 81,448 | |
411,957,112 | | | JPY | | | Merrill Lynch & Co. Inc. (Government of Iraq), FRN, 0.563%, (6-month JPY LIBOR + 0.50%), 1/01/28 | | | 7/19/07 - 1/06/11 | | | | 2,416,463 | | | | 2,802,078 | |
4,250,000 | | | DEM | | | NK Debt Corp., 144A, zero cpn., 3/12/20 | | | 6/19/07 -10/14/08 | | | | 723,263 | | | | — | |
2,000,000 | | | CHF | | | NK Debt Corp., Reg S, zero cpn., 3/12/20 | | | 6/17/11 | | | | 388,830 | | | | — | |
18,000,000 | | | DEM | | | NK Debt Corp., Reg S, zero cpn., 3/12/20 | | | 1/25/11 - 6/06/11 | | | | 2,023,663 | | | | — | |
16,478,377 | | | | | | Societe des Hydrocarbures du Tchad, Tranche B, FRN, 6.834%, (1-month USD LIBOR + 4.50%), 12/31/27 | | | 1/01/18 | | | | 16,478,377 | | | | 14,250,021 | |
8,000,000 | | | | | | Sphynx Capital Markets PCC (National Investment Bank of Ghana), PTN, Reg S, zero cpn., 2/05/09 | | | 10/12/09 - 10/13/11 | | | | 3,100,000 | | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | Total Restricted Securities (Value is 11.0% of Net Assets) | | | | | | $ | 79,095,984 | | | $ | 57,081,977 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
*In U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated.
See Abbreviations on page 33.
| | | | |
28 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
10. Other Derivative Information
At July 31, 2018, the Fund’s investments in derivative contracts are reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Asset Derivatives | | | | | | Liability Derivatives | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Derivative Contracts Not Accounted for as Hedging Instruments | | Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities Location | | Fair Value | | | | | | Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities Location | | Fair Value | |
Foreign exchange contracts | | Unrealized appreciation on OTC forward exchange contracts | | $ | 486,384 | | | | | | | Unrealized depreciation on OTC forward exchange contracts | | $ | — | |
| | | | | |
Value recovery instruments | | Investments in securities, at value | | | 4,884,688 | a | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Totals | | | | $ | 5,371,072 | | | | | | | | | $ | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
aVRI are included in investments in securities, at value in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the effect of derivative contracts in the Fund’s Consolidated Statement of Operations was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Derivative Contracts Not Accounted for as Hedging Instruments | | Consolidated Statement of Operations Location | | Net Realized
Gain (Loss) for
the Year | | | Consolidated Statement of
Operations Location | | Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
for the Year | |
| | Net realized gain (loss) from: | | | | | | Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | | | | |
Foreign exchange contracts | | Forward exchange contracts | | $ | 87,145 | | | Forward exchange contracts | | $ | 740,991 | |
Value recovery instruments | | Investments | | | — | | | Investments | | | 1,485,138 | a |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Totals | | | | $ | 87,145 | | | | | $ | 2,226,129 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
aVRI are included in net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the average month end contract value for forward exchange contracts and average month end fair value of VRI were $28,210,520 and $4,722,080, respectively.
See Note 1(c) regarding derivative financial instruments.
See Abbreviations on page 33.
11. Credit Facility
The Fund, together with other U.S. registered and foreign investment funds (collectively, Borrowers), managed by Franklin Templeton Investments, are borrowers in a joint syndicated senior unsecured credit facility totaling $2 billion (Global Credit Facility) which matures on February 8, 2019. This Global Credit Facility provides a source of funds to the Borrowers for temporary and emergency purposes, including the ability to meet future unanticipated or unusually large redemption requests.
Under the terms of the Global Credit Facility, the Fund shall, in addition to interest charged on any borrowings made by the Fund and other costs incurred by the Fund, pay its share of fees and expenses incurred in connection with the implementation and maintenance of the Global Credit Facility, based upon its relative share of the aggregate net assets of all of the Borrowers, including an annual commitment fee of 0.15% based upon the unused portion of the Global Credit Facility. These fees are reflected in other expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the Fund did not use the Global Credit Facility.
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 29 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
12. Fair Value Measurements
The Fund follows a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and the Fund’s own market assumptions (unobservable inputs). These inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s financial instruments and are summarized in the following fair value hierarchy:
| | • | | Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical financial instruments |
| | • | | Level 2 – other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar financial instruments, interest rates, prepayment speed, credit risk, etc.) |
| | • | | Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of financial instruments) |
The input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with financial instruments at that level.
For movements between the levels within the fair value hierarchy, the Fund has adopted a policy of recognizing the transfers as of the date of the underlying event which caused the movement.
A summary of inputs used as of July 31, 2018, in valuing the Fund’s assets carried at fair value, is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Level 1 | | | Level 2 | | | Level 3 | | | Total | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Securities:a | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Warrants | | $ | — | | | $ | 11,223,878 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 11,223,878 | |
Quasi-Sovereign and Corporate Bonds | | | — | | | | 139,002,673 | | | | 6,726 | b | | | 139,009,399 | |
Loan Participations and Assignments | | | — | | | | 46,743,911 | | | | 46,046,676 | b | | | 92,790,587 | |
Foreign Government and Agency Securities | | | — | | | | 238,986,241 | | | | 1,965,906 | | | | 240,952,147 | |
Common Stocks | | | 1,241,651 | | | | — | | | | 46,572 | b | | | 1,288,223 | |
Private Limited Partnership Fund | | | — | | | | — | | | | 227,836 | | | | 227,836 | |
Short Term Investments | | | 11,538,315 | | | | 1,797,224 | | | | 5,178,608 | | | | 18,514,147 | |
| | | | |
Total Investments in Securities | | $ | 12,779,966 | | | $ | 437,753,927 | | | $ | 53,472,324 | | | $ | 504,006,217 | |
| | | | |
Other Financial Instruments: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Forward Exchange Contracts | | $ | — | | | $ | 486,384 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 486,384 | |
| | | | |
aFor detailed categories, see the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Investments.
bIncludes securities determined to have no value at July 31, 2018.
| | | | |
30 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
A reconciliation of assets in which Level 3 inputs are used in determining fair value is presented when there are significant Level 3 financial instruments at the beginning and/or end of the year. At July 31, 2018, the reconciliation of assets, is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Balance at
Beginning of Year | | | Purchases | | | Sales | | | Transfers
Into
Level 3a | | | Transfers
out of
Level 3 | | | Cost Basis
Adjustmentsb | | | Net
Realized
Gain
(Loss) | | | Net
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation) | | | Balance at End of Year | | | Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
on Assets
Held at Year End | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Securities: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Quasi-Sovereign and Corporate | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Bonds | | $ | 1,366 | c | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 5,360 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 6,726 | c | | $ | — | |
Loan Participations and Assignments | | | 52,189,889 | c | | | — | | | | (6,308,169 | ) | | | — | | | | — | | | | 1,039,219 | | | | 406,920 | | | | (1,281,183 | ) | | | 46,046,676 | c | | | (1,031,450 | ) |
Foreign Government and Agency Securities | | | 1,991,020 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (25,114 | ) | | | 1,965,906 | | | | (25,114 | ) |
Commom Stocks | | | 46,615 | c | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (43 | ) | | | 46,572 | c | | | (43 | ) |
Private Limited Partnership Fund | | | 313,302 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | (85,466 | ) | | | 227,836 | | | | (85,466 | ) |
Short Term Investments | | | — | | | | 5,536,401 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 17,191 | | | | — | | | | (374,984 | ) | | | 5,178,608 | | | | (374,984 | ) |
| | | | |
Total Investments in Securities | | $ | 54,542,192 | | | $ | 5,536,401 | | | $ | (6,308,169 | ) | | $ | 5,360 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,056,410 | | | $ | 406,920 | | | $ | (1,766,790 | ) | | $ | 53,472,324 | | | $ | (1,517,057 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| aThe investments were transferred into Level 3 as a result of the unavailability of a quoted market price in an active market for identical securities. May include amounts related to a corporate action. |
| bMay include accretion, amortization, partnership adjustments, and/or other cost basis adjustments. |
| cIncludes securities determined to have no value. |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 31 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
12. Fair Value Measurements (continued)
Significant unobservable valuation inputs for material Level 3 financial instruments and impact to fair value as a result of changes in unobservable valuation inputs as of July 31, 2018, are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Description | | Fair Value at
End of Year | | | Valuation Technique | | | Unobservable Inputs | | | Amount/Range | | | | | | Impact to Fair
Value if Input
Increasesa | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Securities: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Loan Participations and
Assignments | | | $46,046,676 | | | | Consensus Pricing | | |
| Weighted average of
offered quotes |
| | | 65.0 - 77.2 | | | | JPY | | | | Increase | b |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Discounted Cash Flow
Model |
| | | Free Cash Flow | | | | $53.3 (mil | ) | | | | | | | Increase | c |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Discount rate
|
| | | 7.3% - 12.7% | | | | | | | | Decrease | c |
Short Term Investments | | | 5,178,608 | | |
| Discounted Cash Flow
Model |
| | | Free Cash Flow | | | | $33.1 (mil | ) | | | | | | | Increase | c |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | Discount rate | | | | 7.0% | | | | | | | | Decrease | |
All Other Investmentsd | | | 2,247,040 | e | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | | | $53,472,324 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
aRepresents the directional change in the fair value of the Level 3 financial instruments that would result from a significant and reasonable increase in the corresponding input. A significant and reasonable decrease in the input would have the opposite effect. Significant impacts, if any, to fair value and/or net assets have been indicated.
bRepresents a significant impact to fair value but not net assets.
cRepresents a significant impact to fair value and net assets.
dIncludes financial instruments with values derived using prior transaction prices or third party pricing information without adjustment for which such inputs are unobservable. May also include fair value of immaterial financial instruments developed using various valuation techniques and unobservable inputs.
eIncludes securities determined to have no value at July 31, 2018.
13. Subsequent Events
The Fund has evaluated subsequent events through the issuance of the consolidated financial statements and determined that no events have occurred that require disclosure.
| | | | |
32 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (continued)
Abbreviations
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Counterparty | | Currency | | Selected Portfolio |
CITI | | Citibank N.A. | | ARS | | Argentine Peso | | ADR | | American Depositary Receipt |
MSCO | | Morgan Stanley | | AZN | | Azerbaijan Manat | | FRN | | Floating Rate Note |
RBCCM | | Royal Bank of Canada | | CHF | | Swiss Franc | | GDP | | Gross Domestic Product |
| | | | COP | | Colombian Peso | | GDR | | Global Depositary Receipt |
| | | | DEM | | Deutsche Mark | | LIBOR | | London InterBank Offered Rate |
| | | | DOP | | Dominican Peso | | PIK | | Payment-In-Kind |
| | | | EGP | | Egyptian Pound | | PTN | | Pass-through Note |
| | | | GEL | | Georgian Lari | | T-Bill | | Treasury Bill |
| | | | GHS | | Ghanaian Cedi | | VRI | | Value Recovery Instrument |
| | | | IDR | | Indonesian Rupiah | | | | |
| | | | JPY | | Japanese Yen | | | | |
| | | | KES | | Kenyan Shilling | | | | |
| | | | KZT | | Kazakhstani Tenge | | | | |
| | | | MXN | | Mexican Peso | | | | |
| | | | PEN | | Peruvian Nuevo Sol | | | | |
| | | | RUB | | Russian Ruble | | | | |
| | | | TRY | | Turkish Lira | | | | |
| | | | UGX | | Ugandan Shilling | | | | |
| | | | USD | | United States Dollar | | | | |
| | | | UYU | | Uruguayan Peso | | | | |
| | | | ZAR | | South African Rand | | | | |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 33 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of Franklin Global Trust and Shareholders of Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of assets and liabilities, including the consolidated statement of investments, of Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”) as of July 31, 2018, the related consolidated statement of operations and consolidated cash flows for the year ended July 31, 2018, the consolidated statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended July 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the consolidated financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended July 31, 2018 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of July 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 two years in the period ended July 31, 2018 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended July 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s consolidated financial statements 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 of these consolidated financial statements 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 consolidated financial statements 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 consolidated financial statements, 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 consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent, and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Francisco, California
September 18, 2018
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in the Franklin Templeton funds since 1948.
| | | | |
34 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Tax Information (unaudited)
Under Section 852(b)(3)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund hereby reports the maximum amount allowable but no less than $1,493,088 as a long term capital gain dividend for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.
At July 31, 2017, more than 50% of the Fund’s total assets were invested in securities of foreign issuers. In most instances, foreign taxes were withheld from income paid to the Fund on these investments. As shown in the table below, the Fund hereby reports to shareholders the foreign source income and foreign taxes paid, pursuant to Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code. This written statement will allow shareholders of record on December 14, 2017, to treat their proportionate share of foreign taxes paid by the Fund as having been paid directly by them. The shareholder shall consider these amounts as foreign taxes paid in the tax year in which they receive the Fund distribution.
The following table provides a detailed analysis of foreign tax paid, and foreign source income, and foreign source qualified dividends as reported by the Fund, to shareholders of record.
| | | | | | | | |
Foreign Tax Paid Per Share | | Foreign Source
Income Per Share | | | Foreign Source Qualified
Dividends Per Share | |
| | |
$0.0045 | | | $0.7796 | | | | $0.0000 | |
Foreign Tax Paid Per Share (Column 1) is the amount per share available to you, as a tax credit (assuming you held your shares in the Fund for a minimum of 16 days during the 31-day period beginning 15 days before the ex-dividend date of the Fund’s distribution to which the foreign taxes relate), or, as a tax deduction.
Foreign Source Income Per Share (Column 2) is the amount per share of income dividends attributable to foreign securities held by the Fund, plus any foreign taxes withheld on these dividends. The amounts reported include foreign source qualified dividends that have not been adjusted for the rate differential applicable to such dividend income.1
Foreign Source Qualified Dividends Per Share (Column 3) is the amount per share of foreign source qualified dividends, plus any foreign taxes withheld on these dividends. These amounts represent the portion of the Foreign Source Income reported to you in column 2 that were derived from qualified foreign securities held by the Fund.1
In February 2018, shareholders received Form 1099-DIV which included their share of taxes paid and foreign source income distributed during the calendar year 2017. The Foreign Source Income reported on Form 1099-DIV had not been adjusted for the rate differential on foreign source qualified dividend income. Shareholders are advised to check with their tax advisors for information on the treatment of these amounts on their 2017 individual income tax returns.
At July 31, 2018, more than 50% of the Fund’s total assets were invested in securities of foreign issuers. In most instances, foreign taxes were withheld from income paid to the Fund on these investments. The Fund elects to treat foreign taxes paid as allowed under Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code. This election will allow shareholders of record as of the 2018 distribution date, to treat their proportionate share of foreign taxes paid by the Fund as having been paid directly by them. The shareholder shall consider these amounts as foreign taxes paid in the tax year in which they receive the Fund distribution.
1. Qualified dividends are taxed at reduced long term capital gains tax rates. In determining the amount of foreign tax credit that may be applied against the U.S. tax liability of individuals receiving foreign source qualified dividends, adjustments may be required to the foreign tax credit limitation calculation to reflect the rate differential applicable to such dividend income. The rules however permit certain individuals to elect not to apply the rate differential adjustments for capital gains and/or dividends for any taxable year. Please consult your tax advisor and the instructions to Form 1116 for more information.
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 35 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Special Meeting of Shareholders
MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS: OCTOBER 30, 2017 AND RECONVENED ON DECEMBER 15, 2017 AND DECEMBER 29, 2017
(UNAUDITED)
A Special Meeting of Shareholders of Franklin Global Trust was held at the offices of Franklin Templeton Investments, One Franklin Parkway, San Mateo, California on October 30, 2017 and reconvened on December 15, 2017 and December 29, 2017. The purpose of the meeting was to elect Trustees of Franklin Global Trust and to vote on the following proposals: to approve the use of a “manager of managers” structure whereby the Fund’s investment manager would be able to hire and replace subadvisers without shareholder approval and to approve an amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities for the Fund. At the meeting, (i) the following persons were elected by the shareholders to serve as Trustees of Franklin Global Trust: Harris J. Ashton, Terrence J. Checki, Mary C. Choksi, Edith E. Holiday, Gregory E. Johnson, Rupert H. Johnson, Jr., J. Michael Luttig, Larry D. Thompson, and John B. Wilson and (ii) the proposals to use a “manager of managers” structure and to approve the amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities were approved by shareholders. No other business was transacted at the meeting.
In connection with the meeting, management is aware that some shareholders received from the proxy solicitor numerous calls and mailings that may have been distracting. Management is taking steps to ensure that, in the future, for any new shareholder meeting solicitations that occur, such activity is not repeated. Management apologizes for any inconvenience that may have been caused as a result of such calls and mailings.
The results of the voting at the meeting are as follows:
| Proposal | 1. To elect a Board of Trustees: |
| | | | | | | | |
| Name | | For | | | Withheld | |
| | |
Harris J. Ashton | | | 123,597,479 | | | | 3,571,398 | |
| | |
Terrence J. Checki | | | 123,690,572 | | | | 3,478,306 | |
| | |
Mary C. Choksi | | | 123,243,714 | | | | 3,925,163 | |
| | |
Edith E. Holiday | | | 121,178,523 | | | | 5,990,354 | |
| | |
Gregory E. Johnson | | | 123,694,217 | | | | 3,474,660 | |
| | |
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. | | | 123,621,068 | | | | 3,547,808 | |
| | |
J. Michael Luttig | | | 123,705,401 | | | | 3,463,476 | |
| | |
Larry D. Thompson | | | 123,162,505 | | | | 4,006,372 | |
| | |
John B. Wilson | | | 123,573,690 | | | | 3,595,187 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total Trust Shares Outstanding*: 162,995,191
* As of the record date.
| | | | |
36 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
| Proposal 2. | To approve the use of a “manager of managers” structure whereby the Fund’s investment manager would be able to hire and replace subadvisers without shareholder approval: |
| | | | |
| | | Shares | |
| |
For | | | 21,855,206 | |
| |
Against | | | 14,063 | |
| |
Abstain | | | 15,074 | |
| |
Broker Non-Votes | | | 6,000,110 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Voted | | | 27,884,451 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Outstanding* | | | 44,049,604 | |
| Proposal 3. | To approve an amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities: |
| | | | |
| | | Shares | |
| |
For | | | 21,791,199 | |
| |
Against | | | 16,569 | |
| |
Abstain | | | 76,573 | |
| |
Broker Non-Votes | | | 6,000,110 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Voted | | | 27,884,451 | |
| |
Total Fund Shares Outstanding* | | | 44,049,604 | |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 37 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Board Members and Officers
The name, year of birth and address of the officers and board members, as well as their affiliations, positions held with the Trust, principal occupations during at least the past five years and number of US registered portfolios overseen in the Franklin Templeton Investments fund complex, are shown below. Generally, each board member serves until that person’s successor is elected and qualified.
Independent Board Members
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Harris J. Ashton (1932) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2000 | | 136 | | Bar-S Foods (meat packing company) (1981-2010). |
|
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: |
Director of various companies; and formerly, Director, RBC Holdings, Inc. (bank holding company) (until 2002); and President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, General Host Corporation (nursery and craft centers) (until 1998). |
| | | | | |
Terrence J. Checki (1945) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since December 2017 | | 112 | | Hess Corporation (exploration of oil and gas) (2014-present). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Member of the Council on Foreign Relations (1996-present); Member of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations (1999-present); member of the Board of Trustees of the Economic Club of New York (2013-present); member of the Board of Trustees of the Foreign Policy Association (2005-present) and member of various other boards of trustees and advisory boards; and formerly, Executive Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and Head of its Emerging Markets and Internal Affairs Group and Member of Management Committee (1995-2014); and Visiting Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (2014). |
| | | | | |
Mary C. Choksi (1950) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2014 | | 136 | | Avis Budget Group Inc. (car rental) (2007-present), Omnicom Group Inc. (advertising and marketing communications services) (2011-present) and White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (holding company) (2017-present). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; and formerly, Founder and Senior Advisor, Strategic Investment Group (investment management group) (2015-2017); Founding Partner and Senior Managing Director, Strategic Investment Group (1987-2015); Founding Partner and Managing Director, Emerging Markets Management LLC (investment management firm) (1987-2011); and Loan Officer/Senior Loan Officer/Senior Pension Investment Officer, World Bank Group (international financial institution) (1977-1987). |
| | | | | |
Edith E. Holiday (1952) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2000 | | 136 | | Hess Corporation (exploration of oil and gas) (1993-present), Canadian National Railway (railroad) (2001-present), White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (holding company) (2004-present), Santander Consumer USA Holdings, Inc. (consumer finance) (2016-present), RTI International Metals, Inc. (manufacture and distribution of titanium) (1999-2015) and H.J. Heinz Company (processed foods and allied products) (1994-2013). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director or Trustee of various companies and trusts; and formerly, Assistant to the President of the United States and Secretary of the Cabinet (1990-1993); General Counsel to the United States Treasury Department (1989-1990); and Counselor to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and Public Liaison – United States Treasury Department (1988-1989). |
| | | | | |
J. Michael Luttig (1954) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2009 | | 136 | | Boeing Capital Corporation (aircraft financing) (2006-2013). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and member of the Executive Council, The Boeing Company (aerospace company) (2006-present); and formerly, Federal Appeals Court Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit (1991-2006). |
| | | | |
38 | | Annual Report | | ftinstitutional.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Independent Board Members (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
Larry D. Thompson (1945) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2007 | | 136 | | The Southern Company (energy company) (2014-present; previously 2010-2012), Graham Holdings Company (education and media organization) (2011-present) and Cbeyond, Inc. (business communications provider) (2010-2012). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; Counsel, Finch McCranie, LLP (law firm) (2015-present); Independent Compliance Monitor and Auditor, Volkswagen AG (manufacturer of automobiles and commercial vehicles) (2017-present); John A. Sibley Professor of Corporate and Business Law, University of Georgia School of Law (2015-present; previously 2011-2012); and formerly, Executive Vice President – Government Affairs, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, PepsiCo, Inc. (consumer products) (2012-2014); Senior Vice President - Government Affairs, General Counsel and Secretary, PepsiCo, Inc. (2004-2011); Senior Fellow of The Brookings Institution (2003-2004); Visiting Professor, University of Georgia School of Law (2004); and Deputy Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice (2001-2003). |
| | | | |
John B. Wilson (1959) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Lead Independent Trustee | | Trustee since 2006 and Lead Independent Trustee since 2008 | | 112 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
President and Founder, Hyannis Port Capital, Inc. (real estate and private equity investing) (2002-present); Senior Advisor, McKinsey & Co. (consulting) (2017-present); serves on private and non-profit boards; and formerly, President, Staples International and Head of Global Transformation (office supplies) (2012-2016); Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, Gap, Inc. (retail) (1996-2000); Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President – Finance and Strategy, Staples, Inc. (1992-1996); Senior Vice President – Corporate Planning, Northwest Airlines, Inc. (airlines) (1990-1992); and Vice President and Partner, Bain & Company (consulting firm) (1986-1990). |
| | |
| Interested Board Members and Officers | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
**Gregory E. Johnson (1961) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2007 | | 150 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Chairman of the Board, Member – Office of the Chairman, Director and Chief Executive Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.; officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 42 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice Chairman, Investment Company Institute; and formerly, President, Franklin Resources, Inc. (1994-2015). |
**Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (1940) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chairman of the Board and Trustee | | Since 2013 | | 136 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Vice Chairman, Member - Office of the Chairman and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Franklin Advisory Services, LLC; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 40 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
Alison E. Baur (1964) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2012 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Deputy General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
ftinstitutional.com | | Annual Report | | 39 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Gaston Gardey (1967) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Treasurer, U.S. Fund Administration & Reporting, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Aliya S. Gordon (1973) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Steven J. Gray (1955) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. and FASA, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Matthew T. Hinkle (1971) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chief Executive Officer – Finance and Administration | | Since 2017 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, LLC; officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; and formerly, Vice President, Global Tax (2012-April 2017) and Treasurer/Assistant Treasurer, Franklin Templeton Investments (2009-2017). |
| | | | |
Edward B. Jamieson (1948) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | President and Chief Executive Officer – Investment Management | | Since 2010 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
President and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC; and officer and/or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 10 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Robert Lim (1948) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President –AML Compliance | | Since 2016 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC; Chief Compliance Officer, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Investor Services, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Christopher J. Molumphy (1962) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2000 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director and Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 21 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Kimberly H. Novotny (1972) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Vice President | | Since 2013 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President and Corporate Secretary, Fiduciary Trust International of the South; Vice President, Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC; Assistant Secretary, Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Robert C. Rosselot (1960) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Chief Compliance Officer | | Since 2013 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director, Global Compliance, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President, Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC; officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; and formerly, Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments (2007-2013); and Secretary and Vice President, Templeton Group of Funds (2004-2013). |
| | | | |
Karen L. Skidmore (1952) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President and Secretary | | Since 2006 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Navid J. Tofigh (1972) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2015 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Craig S. Tyle (1960) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2005 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
General Counsel and Executive Vice President, Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Lori A. Weber (1964) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Vice President | | Since 2011 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Assistant Secretary, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Vice President and Secretary, Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
*We base the number of portfolios on each separate series of the US registered investment companies within the Franklin Templeton Investments fund complex. These portfolios have a common investment manager or affiliated investment managers.
**Gregory E. Johnson is considered to be an interested person of the Fund under the federal securities laws due to his position as an officer and director of Franklin Resources, Inc. (Resources), which is the parent company of the Fund’s investment manager and distributor. Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. is considered to be an interested person of the Fund under the federal securities laws due to his position as officer and director and major shareholder of Resources.
Note 1: Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. is the uncle of Gregory E. Johnson.
Note 2: Officer information is current as of the date of this report. It is possible that after this date, information about officers may change.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission require the Fund to disclose whether the Fund’s Audit Committee includes at least one member who is an audit committee financial expert within the meaning of such Act and Rules. The Fund’s Board has determined that there is at least one such financial expert on the Audit Committee and has designated John B. Wilson as its audit committee financial expert. The Board believes that Mr. Wilson qualifies as such an expert in view of his extensive business background and experience, including service as chief financial officer of Staples, Inc. from 1992 to 1996. Mr. Wilson has been a Member and Chairman of the Fund’s Audit Committee since 2006. As a result of such background and
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
experience, the Board believes that Mr. Wilson has acquired an understanding of generally accepted accounting principles and financial statements, the general application of such principles in connection with the accounting estimates, accruals and reserves, and analyzing and evaluating financial statements that present a breadth and level of complexity of accounting issues generally comparable to those of the Fund, as well as an understanding of internal controls and procedures for financial reporting and an understanding of audit committee functions. Mr. Wilson is an independent Board member as that term is defined under the relevant Securities and Exchange Commission Rules and Releases.
The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) includes additional information about the board members and is available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders may call (800) DIAL BEN/342-5236 to request the SAI.
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Shareholder Information
Board Approval of Investment Management Agreements
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund
(Fund)
At an in-person meeting held on February 27, 2018 (Meeting), the Board of Trustees (Board) of Franklin Global Trust (Trust), including a majority of the trustees who are not “interested persons” as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (Independent Trustees), reviewed and approved the continuance of the investment management agreement between Franklin Templeton Investment Management Limited (Manager) and the Trust, on behalf of the Fund (Management Agreement) for an additional one-year period. The Independent Trustees received advice from and met separately with Independent Trustee counsel in considering whether to approve the continuation of the Management Agreement.
In considering the continuation of the Management Agreement, the Board reviewed and considered information provided by the Manager at the Meeting and throughout the year at meetings of the Board and its committees. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided in response to a detailed set of requests for information submitted to the Manager by Independent Trustee counsel on behalf of the Independent Trustees in connection with the annual contract renewal process. In addition, prior to the Meeting, the Independent Trustees held a telephonic contract renewal meeting at which the Independent Trustees conferred amongst themselves and Independent Trustee counsel about contract renewal matters. The Board reviewed and considered all of the factors it deemed relevant in approving the continuance of the Management Agreement, including, but not limited to: (i) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Manager; (ii) the investment performance of the Fund; (iii) the costs of the services provided and profits realized by the Manager and its affiliates from the relationship with the Fund; (iv) the extent to which economies of scale are realized as the Fund grows; and (v) whether fee levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund investors.
In approving the continuance of the Management Agreement, the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, determined that the terms of the Management Agreement are fair and reasonable and that the continuance of such Management Agreement is in the interests of the Fund and its shareholders. While attention was given to all information
furnished, the following discusses some primary factors relevant to the Board’s determination.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the nature, extent and quality of investment management services provided by the Manager and its affiliates to the Fund and its shareholders. This information included, among other things, the qualifications, background and experience of the senior management and investment personnel of the Manager; the structure of investment personnel compensation; oversight of third-party service providers; investment performance reports and related financial information for the Fund; reports on expenses, shareholder services, marketing support payments made to financial intermediaries and third party servicing arrangements; legal and compliance matters; risk controls; pricing and other services provided by the Manager and its affiliates; and management fees charged by the Manager and its affiliates to U.S. funds and other accounts, including management’s explanation of differences among accounts where relevant. The Board also reviewed and considered an annual report on payments made by Franklin Templeton Investments (FTI) or the Fund to financial intermediaries, as well as a memorandum relating to third-party servicing arrangements in response to a guidance update in 2016 from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) relating to mutual fund distribution and sub-accounting fees. The Board noted management’s continuing efforts and expenditures in establishing effective business continuity plans and developing strategies to address areas of heightened concern in the mutual fund industry, such as cybersecurity and liquidity risk management. The Board also recognized management’s commitment to facilitating Board oversight of particular areas, including derivatives and payments to intermediaries, by enhanced reporting.
The Board also reviewed and considered the benefits provided to Fund shareholders of investing in a fund that is part of the Franklin Templeton family of funds. The Board noted the financial position of Franklin Resources, Inc. (FRI), the Manager’s parent, and its commitment to the mutual fund business as evidenced by its continued introduction of new funds, reassessment of the fund offerings in response to the market environment and project initiatives and capital investments relating to the services provided to the Fund by the FTI organization.
Following consideration of such information, the Board was satisfied with the nature, extent and quality of services provided
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
by the Manager and its affiliates to the Fund and its shareholders.
Fund Performance
The Board reviewed and considered the performance results of the Fund over various time periods ended December 31, 2017. The Board considered the performance returns for the Fund in comparison to the performance returns of mutual funds deemed comparable to the Fund included in a universe (Performance Universe) selected by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (Broadridge), an independent provider of investment company data. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge to select the mutual funds included in a Performance Universe. The Board also reviewed and considered Fund performance reports provided and discussions that occurred with portfolio managers at Board meetings throughout the year. A summary of the Fund’s performance results is below.
The Performance Universe for the Fund included the Fund and all retail and institutional emerging markets hard currency debt funds. The Board noted that the Fund’s annualized total return for the one-, three-, five- and 10-year periods was above the median of its Performance Universe. The Board concluded that the Fund’s performance was satisfactory.
Comparative Fees and Expenses
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the Fund’s actual total expense ratio and its various components, including, as applicable, management fees; transfer agent expenses; underlying fund expenses; Rule 12b-1 and non-Rule 12b-1 service fees; and other non-management fees. The Board also noted the quarterly and annual reports it receives on all marketing support payments made by FTI to financial intermediaries. The Board considered the actual total expense ratio and, separately, the contractual management fee rate, without the effect of fee waivers (Management Rate), if any, of the Fund in comparison to the median expense ratio and median Management Rate, respectively, of other mutual funds deemed comparable to and with a similar expense structure as the Fund selected by Broadridge (Expense Group). Broadridge fee and expense data is based upon information taken from each fund’s most recent annual report, which reflects historical asset levels that may be quite different from those currently existing, particularly in a period of market volatility. While recognizing such inherent limitation and the fact that expense ratios and Management Rates generally increase as assets decline and decrease as assets grow, the Board believed the independent analysis conducted by Broadridge to be an
appropriate measure of comparative fees and expenses. The Broadridge Management Rate includes administrative charges, and the actual total expense ratio, for comparative consistency, was shown for Advisor Class, Institutional Class and Class I shares for funds with multiple classes of shares. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge to select the mutual funds included in an Expense Group.
The Expense Group for the Fund included the Fund and nine other emerging markets hard currency debt funds. The Board noted that the Management Rate and actual total expense ratio for the Fund were above the medians of its Expense Group. The Board concluded that the Management Rate charged to the Fund is reasonable. In doing so, the Board acknowledged management’s explanation that there are additional complexities and expenses associated with the management of the specialized portfolio and that the Fund compares favorably with those in its peer group that are more actively managed. Further, the Board noted that the Fund’s actual total expense ratio reflected a fee waiver from management after which the Fund was only 5.9 basis points above the median.
Profitability
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the profits realized by the Manager and its affiliates in connection with the operation of the Fund. In this respect, the Board considered the Fund profitability analysis provided by the Manager that addresses the overall profitability of FTI’s U.S. fund business, as well as its profits in providing investment management and other services to each of the individual funds during the 12-month period ended September 30, 2017, being the most recent fiscal year-end for FRI. The Board noted that although management continually makes refinements to its methodologies used in calculating profitability in response to organizational and product related changes, the overall methodology has remained consistent with that used in the Fund’s profitability report presentations from prior years. Additionally, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, auditor to Franklin Resources, Inc. and certain Franklin Templeton funds, has been engaged by the Manager to periodically review and assess the allocation methodologies to be used solely by the Fund’s Board with respect to the profitability analysis.
The Board noted management’s belief that costs incurred in establishing the infrastructure necessary for the type of mutual fund operations conducted by the Manager and its affiliates may not be fully reflected in the expenses allocated to the Fund in determining its profitability, as well as the fact that the level of profits, to a certain extent, reflected operational cost savings
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN EMERGING MARKET DEBT OPPORTUNITIES FUND
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
and efficiencies initiated by management. The Board also noted management’s expenditures in improving shareholder services provided to the Fund, as well as the need to implement systems and meet additional regulatory and compliance requirements resulting from recent SEC and other regulatory requirements.
The Board also considered the extent to which the Manager and its affiliates might derive ancillary benefits from fund operations, including revenues generated from transfer agent services, potential benefits resulting from personnel and systems enhancements necessitated by fund growth, as well as increased leverage with service providers and counterparties. Based upon its consideration of all these factors, the Board concluded that the level of profits realized by the Manager and its affiliates from providing services to the Fund was not excessive in view of the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund.
Economies of Scale
The Board reviewed and considered the extent to which the Manager may realize economies of scale, if any, as the Fund grows larger and whether the Fund’s management fee structure reflects any economies of scale for the benefit of shareholders. With respect to possible economies of scale, the Board noted the existence of management fee breakpoints, which operate generally to share any economies of scale with a Fund’s shareholders by reducing the Fund’s effective management fees as the Fund grows in size. The Board considered the Manager’s view that any analyses of potential economies of scale in managing a particular fund are inherently limited in light of the joint and common costs and investments the Manager incurs across the Franklin Templeton family of funds as a whole. The Board noted that the Fund had experienced a decrease in assets and would not be expected to demonstrate additional economies of scale in the near term.
Conclusion
Based on its review, consideration and evaluation of all factors it believed relevant, including the above-described factors and conclusions, the Board unanimously approved the continuation of the Management Agreement for an additional one-year period.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
The Fund’s investment manager has established Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures (Policies) that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities. Shareholders may view the Fund’s complete Policies online at franklintempleton.com. Alternatively, shareholders may request
copies of the Policies free of charge by calling the Proxy Group collect at (954) 527-7678 or by sending a written request to: Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC, 300 S.E. 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, Attention: Proxy Group. Copies of the Fund’s proxy voting records are also made available online at franklintempleton.com and posted on the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov and reflect the most recent 12-month period ended June 30.
Quarterly Consolidated Statement of Investments
The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, files a complete consolidated statement of investments with the US Securities and Exchange Commission for the first and third quarters for each fiscal year on Form N-Q. Shareholders may view the filed Form N-Q by visiting the Commission’s website at sec.gov. The filed form may also be viewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information regarding the operations of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.
Householding of Reports and Prospectuses
You will receive the Fund’s financial reports every six months as well as an annual updated summary prospectus (prospectus available upon request). To reduce Fund expenses, we try to identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the financial reports and summary prospectus. This process, called “householding,” will continue indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you prefer not to have these documents householded, please call us at (800) 632-2301. At any time you may view current prospectuses/summary prospectuses and financial reports on our website. If you choose, you may receive these documents through electronic delivery.
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| | Annual Report Franklin Emerging Market Debt Opportunities Fund Investment Manager Franklin Templeton Investment Management Limited Distributor Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. Franklin Templeton Institutional Services (800) 321-8563 ftinstitutional.com |
Authorized for distribution only when accompanied or preceded by a summary prospectus and/or prospectus. Investors should carefully consider a fund’s investment goals, risks, charges and expenses before investing. A prospectus contains this and other information; please read it carefully before investing.
To help ensure we provide you with quality service, all calls to and from our service areas are monitored and/or recorded.
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| © 2018 Franklin Templeton Investments. All rights reserved. | | 699 A 09/18 |
Franklin Templeton Investments
Why choose Franklin Templeton Investments?
Successful investing begins with ambition. And achievement only comes when you reach for it. That’s why we continually strive to deliver better outcomes for investors. No matter what your goals are, our deep, global investment expertise allows us to offer solutions that can help.
During our more than 70 years of experience, we’ve managed through all kinds of markets—up, down and those in between. We’re always preparing for what may come next. It’s because of this, combined with our strength as one of the world’s largest asset managers that we’ve earned the trust of millions of investors around the world.
Dear Shareholder:
The 12 months ended July 31, 2018, benefited from global economic expansion amid price gains in oil and other commodities, encouraging corporate earnings reports and investor optimism about global economic growth. Corporate earnings increased throughout the period, with many companies exceeding their earnings guidance and reporting increased sales and better operating profit margins. However, investor sentiment was dampened by Korean peninsula tensions, worries that central banks could raise interest rates due to strong economic growth, US trade conflict with China and other allies, and concerns about consumer data privacy. In this environment, US stocks, as measured by the Standard & Poor’s® 500 Index, and global developed market stocks, as measured by the MSCI World Index, ended the period with strong returns.
We are committed to our long-term perspective and disciplined investment approach as we conduct a rigorous, fundamental analysis of securities with a regular emphasis on investment risk management.
We believe active, professional investment management serves investors well. We also recognize the important role of financial advisors in today’s markets and encourage investors to continue to seek their advice. Amid changing markets and economic conditions, we are confident investors with a well-diversified portfolio and a patient, long-term outlook should be well positioned for the years ahead.
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund’s annual report includes more detail about prevailing conditions and discussions about investment decisions during the period. Please remember all securities markets fluctuate, as do mutual fund share prices.
We thank you for investing with Franklin Templeton, welcome your questions and comments, and look forward to serving your future investment needs.
Sincerely,
Edward B. Jamieson
President and Chief Executive Officer –
Investment Management
Franklin Global Trust
This letter reflects our analysis and opinions as of July 31, 2018, unless otherwise indicated. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable.
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| Not FDIC Insured | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee |
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franklintempleton.com | | Not part of the annual report | | 1 |
Contents
Visit franklintempleton.com for fund updates, to access your account, or to find helpful financial planning tools.
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Annual Report
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
We are pleased to bring you Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund’s annual report for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.
Your Fund’s Goal and Main Investments
The Fund seeks total investment return consisting of income and capital appreciation by investing, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its net assets in infrastructure-related companies globally, as defined in the Fund’s prospectus.
Performance Overview
For the period under review, the Fund’s Class A shares generated a +1.46% cumulative total return. In comparison, the Standard & Poor’s (S&P®) Global Infrastructure Index, which tracks performance of stocks of large infrastructure companies around the world, posted a +0.31% cumulative total return.1 You can find more of the Fund’s performance data in the Performance Summary beginning on page 8.
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236.
Economic and Market Overview
The US economy grew during the 12-month period under review. After moderating for three consecutive quarters, the economy grew faster in 2018’s second quarter, driven by consumer spending, exports, business investment and government spending. The unemployment rate declined from 4.3% in July 2017, as reported at the beginning of the 12-month period, to 3.9% at period-end.2 Annual inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, increased from 1.7% in July 2017, as reported at the beginning of the period, to 2.9% at period-end.2
Portfolio Composition
Based on Total Net Assets as of 7/31/18
The US Federal Reserve (Fed) began reducing its balance sheet in October 2017 as part of its ongoing effort to normalize monetary policy. Furthermore, the Fed raised its target range for the federal funds rate three times during the period, to 1.75%–2.00%. At his congressional testimonies in February and July 2018, the new Fed Chair Jerome Powell indicated the Fed’s intention to gradually raise interest rates. The broad US stock market, as measured by the Standard & Poor’s® 500 Index, rose significantly for the 12-month period.
The global economy expanded during the period amid generally upbeat economic data across regions. In this environment, the MSCI All Country World Index, which measures performance of global developed and emerging
1. Source: Morningstar.
The index is unmanaged and includes reinvestment of any income or distributions. It does not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. One cannot invest directly in an index, and an index is not representative of the Fund’s portfolio.
2. Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The dollar value, number of shares or principal amount, and names of all portfolio holdings are listed in the Fund’s Statement of Investments (SOI). The SOI begins on page 17.
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
market stocks, reached a new all-time high in January 2018 and generated a +11.55% total return for the 12 months ended July 31, 2018.1 Global markets were aided by price gains in oil and the European Central Bank’s (ECB’s) extension of its monetary easing program. Further supporting global stocks were the passage of the US tax reform bill, encouraging corporate earnings reports and investor optimism about global economic growth.
However, global markets reflected investor concerns about tensions in the Korean peninsula and political uncertainties in the US and the European Union (EU), as well as worries that strong economic growth and rising inflation in some parts of the world, particularly in the US, would lead central banks to increase interest rates sooner than expected. Markets were further pressured by the Trump administration’s protectionist trade policies, US trade disputes with its allies and China, and a broad sell-off in information technology stocks in March due to fears of tighter regulation in the sector arising from concerns about consumer data privacy. Near period-end, an overall easing of tensions in the Korean peninsula and a US-EU agreement to try to reduce trade barriers relieved investors. However, the escalating US-China trade dispute hindered global markets.
In Europe, the UK’s quarterly economic growth moderated in 2018’s first quarter but accelerated in the second quarter. In November, the Bank of England raised its key policy rate for the first time in a decade. The eurozone’s quarterly growth held steady in 2017’s fourth quarter but moderated in 2018’s first and second quarters. The ECB kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged during the period. However, at its October 2017 meeting, the ECB extended the time frame for its bond-buying program from December 2017 to at least September 2018, while reducing the amount of monthly bond purchases in half beginning in January 2018. In June, the ECB announced it would further reduce its monthly bond purchases beginning in October 2018 and indicated it would conclude the program at the end of 2018 while continuing to keep interest rates unchanged through at least the summer of 2019.
In Asia, Japan’s quarterly gross domestic product (GDP) growth declined in 2018’s first quarter but expanded in the second quarter as household and business spending grew. The Bank of Japan left its benchmark interest rate unchanged during the period and continued its monetary stimulus measures. China’s annual GDP moderated in 2018’s second quarter after growing at a stable rate in the previous two quarters. The People’s Bank of China left its benchmark interest rate unchanged during the period but took measures to improve
Geographic Composition
Based on Total Net Assets as of 7/31/18
financial liquidity to mitigate the negative effects of the US-China trade dispute and support economic growth.
Investment Strategy
When selecting investments for the Fund’s portfolio, we use a bottom-up stock selection process that incorporates macro-level views in the evaluation process. Our portfolio construction process combines bottom-up analysis of individual stock and infrastructure market fundamentals with top-down macro overlays to provide country/regional, infrastructure sector and company size perspectives in identifying international/local cyclical and thematic trends that highlight investment opportunities. Under normal market conditions, the Fund
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities listed on a domestic or foreign exchange of companies that are located around the world (including emerging markets) and whose principal business is the ownership, management, construction, operation, use or financing of infrastructure assets. Under normal market conditions, the Fund expects to invest at least 40% of its net assets in foreign securities. We may invest up to 20% of net assets in emerging markets and may invest in infrastructure-related companies of any market capitalization size. We may use derivative instruments, including currency forward and futures contracts, from time to time to help manage currency risks and manage local currency exposure.
What is a currency forward contract?
A currency forward contract is an agreement between the Fund and a counterparty to buy or sell a foreign currency in exchange for another currency at a specific exchange rate on a future date. Currency forward contracts are privately traded in the interbank market, not on a centralized exchange.
What is a futures contract?
A futures contract is an agreement between the Fund and a counterparty made through a US or foreign futures exchange to buy or sell an underlying instrument or asset at a specific price on a future date.
Manager’s Discussion
During the 12-month period under review, key contributors to the Fund’s performance relative to the S&P Global Infrastructure Index included stock selection in the energy sector,3 with the Fund’s investment in US-based Cheniere Energy Partners Holdings4,5 proving especially beneficial. The company’s only business consists of its majority limited partner interest in Cheniere Energy Partners,6 a US-based company primarily engaged in exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG). Cheniere Energy Partners owns and operates the Sabine Pass LNG terminal in Louisiana. This terminal has five LNG export trains, three of which started operations in 2017, with another scheduled to start in 2018 and one in 2019. All five trains are fully contracted for 20 years on a take-or-pay basis without any change in revenues. As the export trains started producing revenues, the market realized the profit potential of these LNG
Top 10 Holdings
7/31/18
| | |
Company Sector/Industry, Country | | % of Total
Net Assets |
Atlantia SpA | | 6.2% |
Highways & Railtracks, Italy | | |
Transurban Group | | 6.0% |
Highways & Railtracks, Australia | | |
TransCanada Corp. | | 4.8% |
Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation, Canada | | |
NextEra Energy Inc. | | 3.4% |
Electric Utilities, U.S. | | |
Pembina Pipeline Corp. | | 3.2% |
Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation, Canada | | |
Aena SME SA | | 3.2% |
Airport Services, Spain | | |
DTE Energy Co. | | 3.2% |
Multi-Utilities, U.S. | | |
Aeroports de Paris SA | | 3.0% |
Airport Services, France | | |
Sempra Energy | | 2.8% |
Multi-Utilities, U.S. | | |
Iberdrola SA | | 2.7% |
Electric Utilities, Spain | | |
export trains, and as a result, Cheniere Energy Partners Holdings was one of the best-performing stocks in our North American portfolio over the period.
Stock selection in the utilities sector also boosted results partly due to an investment in ENN Energy, one of the largest natural gas distributors in China.4,7 We expect natural gas to continue to increase in the mainland energy market by 2020, which may lead to strong annual volume growth for distributors. Over the past 12 months, the gas distribution sector benefited from improved visibility on regulated returns, as well as from the continuation of strong volume growth. ENN’s performance was particularly strong compared to its peers given the firm’s access to imported natural gas from its parent company, ENN Group.6 Furthermore, the company has continued to invest in its integrated energy capabilities, and announcements of project wins in this segment have also supported the share price.
Relative Fund performance was supported further in the industrials sector by an investment in Eiffage, a French toll
3. The energy sector comprises oil and gas storage and transportation in the SOI.
4. Not part of the index.
5. Not held at period-end.
6. Not a fund holding.
7. The utilities sector comprises electric utilities, gas utilities, multi-utilities and water utilities in the SOI.
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
road operator and construction group.4,8 During the period, traffic on its main toll road network, Autoroutes Paris-Rhin-Rhône (APRR), continued to outperform market expectations due to increased consumer confidence and strength in the French economy. Its first-quarter 2018 earnings report also pointed to solid growth in construction, a business in which we have anticipated cyclical upside potential. We believe debt refinancing efforts could support continued earnings momentum, and we expect dividends to grow due to stronger-than-expected cash flow generation. Generally, we continue to see what we consider more attractive relative valuation with companies that offer a mix of infrastructure construction and operation capabilities compared to those that only manage portfolios of operational toll roads.
In contrast, the Fund’s investment in energy company EQT GP Holdings detracted from relative performance over the period.4 EQT owns, operates, acquires, and develops midstream energy assets in the Appalachian Basin. The company’s operations are primarily focused in southwestern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia, a strategic location in the natural gas shale plays (shale formations containing significant accumulations of natural gas) known as the Marcellus, Upper Devonian, and Utica Shales. As a part of its business that develops gas transmission lines to take gas out of the Marcellus, the company is in the process of building the 300-mile-long Mountain Valley pipeline with a capacity of two billion cubic feet per day. The pipeline will run from southern Virginia to northwestern West Virginia. However, the pipeline has met with some environmental opposition during its construction phase, and the projected launch date has been moved from the fourth quarter of 2018 to the second quarter of 2019. This development caught the market by surprise, and the stock declined. We do believe the pipeline, though delayed, would ultimately be built, and we maintained our position in the stock.
Although the industrials sector8 was an overall contributor at the sector level, the Fund’s underweighted investment in Getlink, operator of the rail infrastructure in the Channel Tunnel that connects the UK with France, weighed on Fund results. Since the 2016 referendum on the UK’s European Union membership (Brexit), Getlink’s share price performance has been increasingly responsive to Brexit-related news flow rather than to underlying fundamental trends. The stock had rebounded over the reporting period as the market began to anticipate a less onerous Brexit, and underlying strength in the French economy was also supportive. We generally saw better
traffic trends and more attractive valuations in other European transportation companies, opting to minimize our exposure to Brexit-related volatility. In March 2018, however, European infrastructure peer Atlantia (also a Fund holding) purchased a small percentage in the company from Goldman Sachs at a premium to the then-market price. Shares of Getlink have traded close to this reference price since that date.
Other individual detractors from relative performance included PG&E, a northern and central California regulated utility engaged in the sale and delivery of electricity and natural gas to commercial and residential customers. We liked its business model as it is 100% regulated, and we believed that among all utilities it is one of the least exposed to tax changes from the Trump administration. Moreover, we considered its valuation quite attractive in the beginning of 2017 compared to other utilities based on our bottom-up earnings projection model. However, in October 2017, Northern California was engulfed by a major wild fire, and according to California law, the local utility (PG&E) could be liable for all damages related to it. Estimates for the loss in this fire range between $10 and $15 billion, and PG&E has insurance covering only $700 million. This is the first time that we have seen such massive wildfire liability for a utility in California, and thus, we were not prepared for this type of unexpected natural disaster risk in the portfolio. As a result of the potential liability, the stock suffered a significant decline in October 2017. On December 20, 2017, the company decided to suspend its quarterly dividend pending additional clarity on the wildfire liabilities, pressuring the shares further.
It is important to recognize the effect of currency movements on the Fund’s performance. In general, if the value of the US dollar goes up compared with a foreign currency, an investment traded in that foreign currency will go down in value because it will be worth fewer US dollars. This can have a negative effect on Fund performance. Conversely, when the US dollar weakens in relation to a foreign currency, an investment traded in that foreign currency will increase in value, which can contribute to Fund performance. For the 12 months ended July 31, 2018, the US dollar rose in value relative to most currencies. As a result, the Fund’s performance was negatively affected by the portfolio’s substantial investment in securities with non-US currency exposure.
8. The industrials sector comprises airport services, construction and engineering, electrical components and equipment, highways and railroads, and marine ports and services in the SOI.
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6 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
Thank you for your continued participation in Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund. We look forward to serving your future investment needs.
| | |
 | | 
Wilson Magee |
| | |
 | | 
Ketul Sakhpara, CFA |
| |
| | Emily Foshag, CFA |
| |
| | Portfolio Management Team |
The foregoing information reflects our analysis, opinions and portfolio holdings as of July 31, 2018, the end of the reporting period. The way we implement our main investment strategies and the resulting portfolio holdings may change depending on factors such as market and economic conditions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice or an offer for a particular security. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or the Fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable, but the investment manager makes no representation or warranty as to their completeness or accuracy. Although historical performance is no guarantee of future results, these insights may help you understand our investment management philosophy.
CFA® is a trademark owned by CFA Institute.
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franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 7 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
Performance Summary as of July 31, 2018
The performance table and graphs do not reflect any taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends, capital gain distributions, if any, or any realized gains on the sale of Fund shares. Total return reflects reinvestment of the Fund’s dividends and capital gain distributions, if any, and any unrealized gains or losses. Your dividend income will vary depending on dividends or interest paid by securities in the Fund’s portfolio, adjusted for operating expenses of each class. Capital gain distributions are net profits realized from the sale of portfolio securities.
Performance as of 7/31/181
Cumulative total return excludes sales charges. Average annual total return includes maximum sales charges. Sales charges will vary depending on the size of the investment and the class of share purchased. The maximum is 5.75% and the minimum is 0%. Class A: 5.75% maximum initial sales charge; Advisor Class: no sales charges. For other share classes, visit franklintempleton.com.
| | | | | | | | |
| Share Class | | Cumulative Total Return2 | | | Average Annual Total Return3 | |
| | |
A | | | | | | | | |
1-Year | | | +1.46% | | | | -4.35% | |
3-Year | | | +21.59% | | | | +4.65% | |
Since Inception (9/6/13) | | | +50.11% | | | | +7.34% | |
| | |
Advisor | | | | | | | | |
1-Year | | | +1.62% | | | | +1.62% | |
3-Year | | | +22.38% | | | | +6.97% | |
Since Inception (9/6/13) | | | +51.99% | | | | +8.92% | |
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236.
See page 10 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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8 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Total Return Index Comparison for a Hypothetical $10,000 Investment1
Total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods shown. It includes any applicable maximum sales charge, Fund expenses, account fees and reinvested distributions. The unmanaged index includes reinvestment of any income or distributions. It differs from the Fund in composition and does not pay management fees or expenses. One cannot invest directly in an index.
Class A (9/6/13–7/31/18)
Advisor Class (9/6/13–7/31/18)
See page 10 for Performance Summary footnotes.
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franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 9 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Distributions (8/1/17–7/31/18)
| | | | |
| Share Class | | Net Investment
Income | |
A | | | $0.2282 | |
C | | | $0.1289 | |
R | | | $0.1824 | |
R6 | | | $0.2842 | |
Advisor | | | $0.2600 | |
Total Annual Operating Expenses5
| | | | | | | | |
| Share Class | | With Waiver | | | Without Waiver | |
A | | | 1.24% | | | | 1.99% | |
Advisor | | | 0.99% | | | | 1.74% | |
Each class of shares is available to certain eligible investors and has different annual fees and expenses, as described in the prospectus.
All investments involve risks, including possible loss of principal. Investments in infrastructure-related securities involve special risks, such as high interest costs, high leverage and increased susceptibility to adverse economic or regulatory developments affecting the sector. Special risks are associated with foreign investing, including currency-rate fluctuations, economic instability and political developments. Because the Fund may invest at least a significant portion of its assets in companies in a specific region, including Europe, the Fund is subject to greater risks of adverse developments in that region and/or the surrounding regions than a fund that is more broadly diversified geographically. Investments in utility company securities, if purchased for dividend yield, involve additional interest-rate risks. When interest rates have risen, the stock prices of these companies have tended to fall. Thus, as the prices of utility company stocks in the Fund adjust to a rise in interest rates, the Fund’s share price may decline. By focusing on an industry or group of industries, the Fund carries much greater risk of adverse developments and price movements in such industries than a fund that invests in a wider variety of industries. The Fund is actively managed but there is no guarantee that the manager’s investment decisions will produce the desired results. The Fund’s prospectus also includes a description of the main investment risks.
1. The Fund has an expense reduction contractually guaranteed through 11/30/19. Fund investment results reflect the expense reduction; without this reduction, the results would have been lower.
2. Cumulative total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods indicated.
3. Average annual total return represents the average annual change in value of an investment over the periods indicated. Return for less than one year, if any, has not been annualized.
4. Source: Morningstar. The S&P Global Infrastructure Index tracks performance of stocks of large infrastructure companies around the world. The index includes companies involved in utilities, energy and transportation infrastructure, such as management or ownership of oil and gas storage and transportation; airport services; highways and rail tracks; marine ports and services; and electric, gas and water utilities.
5. Figures are as stated in the Fund’s current prospectus and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Your Fund’s Expenses and Financial Highlights sections in this report. In periods of market volatility, assets may decline significantly, causing total annual Fund operating expenses to become higher than the figures shown.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
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10 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
Your Fund’s Expenses
As a Fund shareholder, you can incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on Fund purchases and redemptions; and (2) ongoing Fund costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees, and other Fund expenses. All mutual funds have ongoing costs, sometimes referred to as operating expenses. The table below shows ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and can help you understand these costs and compare them with those of other mutual funds. The table assumes a $1,000 investment held for the six months indicated.
Actual Fund Expenses
The table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses in the columns under the heading “Actual.” In these columns the Fund’s actual return, which includes the effect of Fund expenses, is used to calculate the “Ending Account Value” for each class of shares. You can estimate the expenses you paid during the period by following these steps (of course, your account value and expenses will differ from those in this illustration): Divide your account value by $1,000 (if your account had an $8,600 value, then $8,600 ÷ $1,000 = 8.6). Then multiply the result by the number in the row for your class of shares under the headings “Actual” and “Expenses Paid During Period” (if Actual Expenses Paid During Period were $7.50, then 8.6 x $7.50 = $64.50). In this illustration, the actual expenses paid this period are $64.50.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison with Other Funds
Under the heading “Hypothetical” in the table, information is provided about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. This information may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period, but it can help you compare ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with those of other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example for the class of shares you hold with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds.
Please note that expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight ongoing costs and do not reflect any transactional costs. Therefore, information under the heading “Hypothetical” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you compare total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if transactional costs were included, your total costs would have been higher.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | Actual (actual return after expenses) | | | | Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses) | | | | |
Share Class | | Beginning Account Value 2/1/18 | | | | Ending Account
Value 7/31/18 | | Expenses Paid During Period 2/1/18–7/31/181,2 | | | | Ending Account
Value 7/31/18 | | Expenses Paid During Period 2/1/18–7/31/181,2 | | | | Net Annualized Expense Ratio2 |
A | | $1,000 | | | | $978.70 | | $6.08 | | | | $1,018.65 | | $6.21 | | | | 1.24% |
C | | $1,000 | | | | $974.80 | | $9.74 | | | | $1,014.93 | | $9.94 | | | | 1.99% |
R | | $1,000 | | | | $977.00 | | $7.25 | | | | $1,017.46 | | $7.40 | | | | 1.48% |
R6 | | $1,000 | | | | $981.20 | | $3.98 | | | | $1,020.78 | | $4.06 | | | | 0.81% |
Advisor | | $1,000 | | | | $979.70 | | $4.86 | | | | $1,019.89 | | $4.96 | | | | 0.99% |
1. Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the six-month period as indicated above—in the far right column—multiplied by the simple average account value over the period indicated, and then multiplied by 181/365 to reflect the one-half year period.
2. Reflects expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements. Does not include acquired fund fees and expenses.
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franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 11 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Financial Highlights
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014a |
| | | | | |
Class A | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.66 | | | | $12.35 | | | | $11.81 | | | | $12.35 | | | | $10.00 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsb: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomec | | | 0.29 | | | | 0.26 | | | | 0.22 | | | | 0.19 | | | | 0.27 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | (0.10 | ) | | | 1.27 | | | | 0.51 | | | | (0.34 | ) | | | 2.20 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.19 | | | | 1.53 | | | | 0.73 | | | | (0.15 | ) | | | 2.47 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.23 | ) | | | (0.22 | ) | | | (0.18) | | | | (0.19 | ) | | | (0.11 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.01) | | | | (0.20 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.23 | ) | | | (0.22) | | | | (0.19) | | | | (0.39 | ) | | | (0.12 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $13.62 | | | | $13.66 | | | | $12.35 | | | | $11.81 | | | | $12.35 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnd | | | 1.46% | | | | 12.68% | | | | 6.35% | | | | (1.08)% | | | | 24.81% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assetse | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reduction | | | 1.79% | | | | 1.99% | | | | 2.24% | | | | 2.21% | | | | 4.03% | |
| | | | | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reductionf | | | 1.32% | | | | 1.38% | | | | 1.40% | | | | 1.45% | | | | 1.28% | |
| | | | | |
Net investment income | | | 2.12% | | | | 2.10% | | | | 1.93% | | | | 1.62% | | | | 2.59% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $52,551 | | | | $39,991 | | | | $24,889 | | | | $28,568 | | | | $14,934 | |
| | | | | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 97.40% | | | | 71.81% | | | | 63.57% | | | | 50.75% | | | | 35.24% | |
aFor the period September 6, 2013 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2014.
bThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
cBased on average daily shares outstanding.
dTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable, and is not annualized for periods less than one year.
eRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
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12 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014a |
| | | | | |
Class C | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.57 | | | | $12.28 | | | | $11.74 | | | | $12.28 | | | | $10.00 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsb: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomec | | | 0.18 | | | | 0.17 | | | | 0.13 | | | | 0.11 | | | | 0.22 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | (0.09 | ) | | | 1.26 | | | | 0.51 | | | | (0.33 | ) | | | 2.16 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.09 | | | | 1.43 | | | | 0.64 | | | | (0.22 | ) | | | 2.38 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) | | | (0.09 | ) | | | (0.12 | ) | | | (0.09 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) | | | (0.32 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $13.53 | | | | $13.57 | | | | $12.28 | | | | $11.74 | | | | $12.28 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnd | | | 0.65% | | | | 11.86% | | | | 5.58% | | | | (1.78)% | | | | 23.95% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assetse | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reduction | | | 2.54% | | | | 2.74% | | | | 2.99% | | | | 2.91% | | | | 4.85% | |
| | | | | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reductionf | | | 2.07% | | | | 2.13% | | | | 2.15% | | | | 2.15% | | | | 2.10% | |
| | | | | |
Net investment income | | | 1.37% | | | | 1.35% | | | | 1.18% | | | | 0.92% | | | | 1.77% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $9,598 | | | | $8,299 | | | | $4,515 | | | | $4,855 | | | | $2,988 | |
| | | | | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 97.40% | | | | 71.81% | | | | 63.57% | | | | 50.75% | | | | 35.24% | |
aFor the period September 6, 2013 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2014.
bThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
cBased on average daily shares outstanding.
dTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable, and is not annualized for periods less than one year.
eRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
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franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. �� | Annual Report | | 13 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014a |
| | | | | |
Class R | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.64 | | | | $12.34 | | | | $11.80 | | | | $12.32 | | | | $10.00 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsb: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomec | | | 0.24 | | | | 0.24 | | | | 0.19 | | | | 0.16 | | | | 0.25 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | (0.09 | ) | | | 1.27 | | | | 0.51 | | | | (0.33 | ) | | | 2.18 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.15 | | | | 1.51 | | | | 0.70 | | | | (0.17 | ) | | | 2.43 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.18 | ) | | | (0.21 | ) | | | (0.15 | ) | | | (0.15 | ) | | | (0.10 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.18 | ) | | | (0.21 | ) | | | (0.16 | ) | | | (0.35 | ) | | | (0.11 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $13.61 | | | | $13.64 | | | | $12.34 | | | | $11.80 | | | | $12.32 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnd | | | 1.12% | | | | 12.48% | | | | 6.08% | | | | (1.29)% | | | | 24.48% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assetse | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reduction | | | 2.06% | | | | 2.19% | | | | 2.47% | | | | 2.41% | | | | 4.35% | |
| | | | | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reductionf | | | 1.59% | | | | 1.58% | | | | 1.63% | | | | 1.65% | | | | 1.60% | |
| | | | | |
Net investment income | | | 1.85% | | | | 1.90% | | | | 1.70% | | | | 1.42% | | | | 2.27% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $85 | | | | $96 | | | | $63 | | | | $62 | | | | $81 | |
| | | | | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 97.40% | | | | 71.81% | | | | 63.57% | | | | 50.75% | | | | 35.24% | |
aFor the period September 6, 2013 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2014.
bThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
cBased on average daily shares outstanding.
dTotal return and is not annualized for periods less than one year.
eRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
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14 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014a |
| | | | | |
Class R6 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.70 | | | | $12.37 | | | | $11.83 | | | | $12.36 | | | | $10.00 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsb: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomec | | | 0.38 | | | | 0.30 | | | | 0.27 | | | | 0.23 | | | | 0.26 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | (0.13 | ) | | | 1.30 | | | | 0.50 | | | | (0.33 | ) | | | 2.24 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.25 | | | | 1.60 | | | | 0.77 | | | | (0.10 | ) | | | 2.50 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.28 | ) | | | (0.27 | ) | | | (0.22 | ) | | | (0.23 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.28 | ) | | | (0.27 | ) | | | (0.23 | ) | | | (0.43 | ) | | | (0.14 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $13.67 | | | | $13.70 | | | | $12.37 | | | | $11.83 | | | | $12.36 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnd | | | 1.87% | | | | 13.27% | | | | 6.78% | | | | (0.75)% | | | | 25.20% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assetse | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reduction | | | 1.39% | | | | 2.31% | | | | 2.26% | | | | 2.17% | | | | 5.21% | |
| | | | | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reductionf | | | 0.88% | | | | 0.94% | | | | 1.00% | | | | 1.07% | | | | 1.03% | |
| | | | | |
Net investment income | | | 2.57% | | | | 2.54% | | | | 2.33% | | | | 2.00% | | | | 2.84% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $1,737 | | | | $14 | | | | $12 | | | | $12 | | | | $12 | |
| | | | | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 97.40% | | | | 71.81% | | | | 63.57% | | | | 50.75% | | | | 35.24% | |
aFor the period September 6, 2013 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2014.
bThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
cBased on average daily shares outstanding.
dTotal return and is not annualized for periods less than one year.
eRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 15 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, |
| | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 | | 2014a |
| | | | | |
Advisor Class | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Per share operating performance | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(for a share outstanding throughout the year) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of year | | | $13.69 | | | | $12.37 | | | | $11.83 | | | | $12.36 | | | | $10.00 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Income from investment operationsb: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment incomec | | | 0.33 | | | | 0.32 | | | | 0.25 | | | | 0.20 | | | | 0.29 | |
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) | | | (0.11 | ) | | | 1.26 | | | | 0.51 | | | | (0.31 | ) | | | 2.20 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total from investment operations | | | 0.22 | | | | 1.58 | | | | 0.76 | | | | (0.11 | ) | | | 2.49 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Less distributions from: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | | (0.26 | ) | | | (0.26 | ) | | | (0.21 | ) | | | (0.22 | ) | | | (0.12 | ) |
Net realized gains | | | — | | | | — | | | | (0.01 | ) | | | (0.20 | ) | | | (0.01 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total distributions | | | (0.26 | ) | | | (0.26 | ) | | | (0.22 | ) | | | (0.42 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Net asset value, end of year | | | $13.65 | | | | $13.69 | | | | $12.37 | | | | $11.83 | | | | $12.36 | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
Total returnd | | | 1.62% | | | | 13.05% | | | | 6.53% | | | | (0.74)% | | | | 25.13% | |
| | | | | |
Ratios to average net assetse | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reduction | | | 1.54% | | | | 1.74% | | | | 1.99% | | | | 1.91% | | | | 3.85% | |
| | | | | |
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates and expense reductionf | | | 1.07% | | | | 1.13% | | | | 1.15% | | | | 1.15% | | | | 1.10% | |
| | | | | |
Net investment income | | | 2.37% | | | | 2.35% | | | | 2.18% | | | | 1.92% | | | | 2.77% | |
| | | | | |
Supplemental data | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net assets, end of year (000’s) | | | $9,250 | | | | $5,220 | | | | $957 | | | | $556 | | | | $357 | |
| | | | | |
Portfolio turnover rate | | | 97.40% | | | | 71.81% | | | | 63.57% | | | | 50.75% | | | | 35.24% | |
aFor the period September 6, 2013 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2014.
bThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
cBased on average daily shares outstanding.
dTotal return and is not annualized for periods less than one year.
eRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
| | | | |
16 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Statement of Investments, July 31, 2018
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country | | | Shares/ Rights/ Units | | | Value | |
| |
Common Stocks and Other Equity Interests 99.7% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Airport Services 13.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Aena SME SA | | | Spain | | | | 12,763 | | | $ | 2,319,750 | |
Aeroports de Paris SA | | | France | | | | 9,888 | | | | 2,213,542 | |
Auckland International Airport Ltd. | | | New Zealand | | | | 405,821 | | | | 1,846,626 | |
Beijing Capital International Airport Co. Ltd. | | | China | | | | 568,000 | | | | 645,496 | |
Enav SpA | | | Italy | | | | 133,238 | | | | 686,610 | |
Flughafen Zurich AG | | | Switzerland | | | | 1,797 | | | | 376,882 | |
Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte SAB de CV, ADR | | | Mexico | | | | 9,600 | | | | 465,504 | |
Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico SAB de CV, ADR | | | Mexico | | | | 8,651 | | | | 817,952 | |
Japan Airport Terminal Co. Ltd. | | | Japan | | | | 14,800 | | | | 701,547 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 10,073,909 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Construction & Engineering 3.7% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Eiffage SA | | | France | | | | 11,401 | | | | 1,276,389 | |
Sadbhav Engineering Ltd. | | | India | | | | 112,611 | | | | 450,707 | |
Vinci SA | | | France | | | | 9,883 | | | | 994,088 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 2,721,184 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Electric Utilities 16.4% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
American Electric Power Co. Inc. | | | United States | | | | 18,770 | | | | 1,335,298 | |
Enel Chile SA | | | Chile | | | | 5,943,650 | | | | 629,733 | |
Enel SpA | | | Italy | | | | 279,168 | | | | 1,557,476 | |
Evergy Inc. | | | United States | | | | 31,278 | | | | 1,754,383 | |
a Iberdrola SA | | | Spain | | | | 254,254 | | | | 1,977,547 | |
a Iberdrola SA, interim line | | | Spain | | | | 2,565 | | | | 19,950 | |
a Iberdrola SA, rts., 8/06/18 | | | Spain | | | | 24 | | | | 5 | |
NextEra Energy Inc. | | | United States | | | | 15,040 | | | | 2,519,802 | |
Orsted AS | | | Denmark | | | | 6,157 | | | | 379,829 | |
PG&E Corp. | | | United States | | | | 24,700 | | | | 1,064,076 | |
Xcel Energy Inc. | | | United States | | | | 17,290 | | | | 810,209 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 12,048,308 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Electrical Components & Equipment 0.0%† | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Vivint Solar Inc. | | | United States | | | | 6,192 | | | | 35,294 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Gas Utilities 3.8% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Atmos Energy Corp. | | | United States | | | | 4,900 | | | | 450,163 | |
ENN Energy Holdings Ltd. | | | China | | | | 100,000 | | | | 1,017,314 | |
Gujarat State Petronet Ltd. | | | India | | | | 282,278 | | | | 816,405 | |
Infraestructura Energetica Nova SAB de CV | | | Mexico | | | | 100,200 | | | | 490,513 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 2,774,395 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Highways & Railtracks 14.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Atlantia SpA | | | Italy | | | | 152,566 | | | | 4,527,053 | |
Atlas Arteria Ltd. | | | Australia | | | | 83,590 | | | | 406,264 | |
Getlink SE | | | France | | | | 80,201 | | | | 1,059,506 | |
Transurban Group | | | Australia | | | | 506,685 | | | | 4,405,552 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 10,398,375 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Integrated Telecommunication Services 1.5% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cellnex Telecom SAU | | | Spain | | | | 40,185 | | | | 1,067,379 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 17 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Country | | | Shares/
Rights/
Units | | | Value | |
| |
Common Stocks and Other Equity Interests (continued) | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Marine Ports & Services 1.3% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
DP World Ltd. | | | United Arab Emirates | | | | 29,715 | | | $ | 683,445 | |
Global Ports Holding Ltd. | | | Turkey | | | | 13,489 | | | | 88,150 | |
b Global Ports Holding Ltd., 144A | | | Turkey | | | | 23,285 | | | | 152,167 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 923,762 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Multi-Utilities 15.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
CMS Energy Corp. | | | United States | | | | 36,800 | | | | 1,778,912 | |
Dominion Energy Inc. | | | United States | | | | 27,800 | | | | 1,993,538 | |
DTE Energy Co. | | | United States | | | | 21,350 | | | | 2,317,329 | |
National Grid PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 177,107 | | | | 1,891,116 | |
NiSource Inc. | | | United States | | | | 60,400 | | | | 1,581,272 | |
Sempra Energy | | | United States | | | | 17,760 | | | | 2,052,878 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 11,615,045 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation 21.9% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
a Cheniere Energy Inc. | | | United States | | | | 19,450 | | | | 1,235,075 | |
Enbridge Inc. | | | Canada | | | | 38,944 | | | | 1,383,159 | |
Energy Transfer Equity LP | | | United States | | | | 69,187 | | | | 1,259,895 | |
EQT GP Holdings LP | | | United States | | | | 70,573 | | | | 1,566,015 | |
ONEOK Inc. | | | United States | | | | 14,800 | | | | 1,042,512 | |
Pembina Pipeline Corp. | | | Canada | | | | 64,529 | | | | 2,321,615 | |
Targa Resources Corp. | | | United States | | | | 15,820 | | | | 807,927 | |
TransCanada Corp. | | | Canada | | | | 77,707 | | | | 3,495,262 | |
The Williams Cos. Inc. | | | United States | | | | 31,700 | | | | 943,075 | |
Williams Partners LP | | | United States | | | | 44,100 | | | | 1,985,823 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 16,040,358 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Water Utilities 7.2% | | | | | | | | | | | | |
American Water Works Co. Inc. | | | United States | | | | 19,220 | | | | 1,696,165 | |
Cia de Saneamento do Parana, units consisting of common stock and preferred stock | | | Brazil | | | | 32,000 | | | | 379,342 | |
Connecticut Water Service Inc. | | | United States | | | | 11,100 | | | | 715,062 | |
Guangdong Investment Ltd. | | | China | | | | 336,000 | | | | 578,757 | |
Pennon Group PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 120,867 | | | | 1,192,369 | |
Severn Trent PLC | | | United Kingdom | | | | 28,998 | | | | 736,493 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | 5,298,188 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Common Stocks and Other Equity Interests
(Cost $65,125,053) | | | | | | | | | | | 72,996,197 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | | | | Shares | | | | |
| | | |
Short Term Investments (Cost $27,666) 0.0%† | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
Money Market Funds 0.0%† | | | | | | | | | | | | |
c,d Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio, 1.57% | | | United States | | | | 27,666 | | | | 27,666 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Investments (Cost $65,152,719) 99.7% | | | | | | | | | | | 73,023,863 | |
Other Assets, less Liabilities 0.3% | | | | | | | | | | | 196,804 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Assets 100.0% | | | | | | | | | | $ | 73,220,667 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
18 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
See Abbreviations on page 31.
†Rounds to less than 0.1% of net assets.
aNon-income producing.
bSecurity was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be sold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers or in a public offering registered under the Securities Act of 1933. This security has been deemed liquid under guidelines approved by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. At July 31, 2018, the value of this security was $152,167, representing 0.2% of net assets.
cSee Note 3(f) regarding investments in affiliated management investment companies.
dThe rate shown is the annualized seven-day effective yield at period end.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 19 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Financial Statements
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2018
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
| | | | |
Assets: | | | | |
Investments in securities: | | | | |
Cost - Unaffiliated issuers | | | $65,125,053 | |
Cost - Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f) | | | 27,666 | |
| | | | |
Value - Unaffiliated issuers | | | $72,996,197 | |
Value - Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f) | | | 27,666 | |
Receivables: | | | | |
Investment securities sold | | | 437,612 | |
Capital shares sold | | | 39,490 | |
Dividends | | | 267,367 | |
Other assets | | | 43 | |
| | | | |
| |
Total assets | | | 73,768,375 | |
| | | | |
| |
Liabilities: | | | | |
Payables: | | | | |
Capital shares redeemed | | | 419,871 | |
Management fees | | | 42,251 | |
Distribution fees | | | 19,614 | |
Transfer agent fees | | | 2,665 | |
Professional fees | | | 46,389 | |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | | | 16,918 | |
| | | | |
| |
Total liabilities | | | 547,708 | |
| | | | |
| |
Net assets, at value | | | $73,220,667 | |
| | | | |
| |
Net assets consist of: | | | | |
Paid-in capital | | | $67,303,010 | |
Undistributed net investment income | | | 434,788 | |
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | 7,872,143 | |
Accumulated net realized gain (loss) | | | (2,389,274) | |
| | | | |
| |
Net assets, at value | | | $73,220,667 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
20 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Statement of Assets and Liabilities (continued)
July 31, 2018
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
| | | | |
Class A: | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | $ | 52,550,985 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 3,857,059 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value per sharea | | | $13.62 | |
| | | | |
Maximum offering price per share (net asset value per share ÷ 94.25%) | | | $14.45 | |
| | | | |
Class C: | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | $ | 9,598,028 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 709,361 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per sharea | | | $13.53 | |
| | | | |
Class R: | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | $ | 85,216 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 6,261 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share | | | $13.61 | |
| | | | |
Class R6: | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | $ | 1,736,733 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 127,083 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share | | | $13.67 | |
| | | | |
Advisor Class: | | | | |
Net assets, at value | | $ | 9,249,705 | |
| | | | |
Shares outstanding | | | 677,449 | |
| | | | |
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share | | | $13.65 | |
| | | | |
aRedemption price is equal to net asset value less contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 21 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Statement of Operations
for the year ended July 31, 2018
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
| | | | |
Investment income: | | | | |
Dividends: (net of foreign taxes)* | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | $ | 2,388,131 | |
Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f) | | | 9,393 | |
| | | | |
| |
Total investment income | | | 2,397,524 | |
| | | | |
| |
Expenses: | | | | |
Management fees (Note 3a) | | | 694,905 | |
Distribution fees: (Note 3c) | | | | |
Class A | | | 125,247 | |
Class C | | | 95,248 | |
Class R | | | 468 | |
Transfer agent fees: (Note 3e) | | | | |
Class A | | | 119,653 | |
Class C | | | 22,747 | |
Class R | | | 214 | |
Class R6 | | | 1,233 | |
Advisor Class | | | 20,287 | |
Custodian fees (Note 4) | | | 11,414 | |
Reports to shareholders | | | 28,095 | |
Registration and filing fees | | | 92,320 | |
Professional fees | | | 64,898 | |
Trustees’ fees and expenses | | | 2,202 | |
Other | | | 11,683 | |
| | | | |
| |
Total expenses | | | 1,290,614 | |
Expense reductions (Note 4) | | | (236 | ) |
Expenses waived/paid by affiliates (Note 3f and 3g) | | | (326,749 | ) |
| | | | |
| |
Net expenses | | | 963,629 | |
| | | | |
| |
Net investment income | | | 1,433,895 | |
| | | | |
| |
Realized and unrealized gains (losses): | | | | |
Net realized gain (loss) from: | | | | |
Investments:# | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | | 556,192 | |
Foreign currency transactions | | | (41,706 | ) |
| | | | |
| |
Net realized gain (loss) | | | 514,486 | |
| | | | |
| |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | | | | |
Investments: | | | | |
Unaffiliated issuers | | | (1,385,799 | ) |
Translation of other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | | | (1,978 | ) |
Change in deferred taxes on unrealized appreciation | | | 63,949 | |
| | | | |
| |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | (1,323,828 | ) |
| | | | |
| |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | | | (809,342 | ) |
| | | | |
| |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | | $ | 624,553 | |
| | | | |
| |
*Foreign taxes withheld on dividends | | $ | 194,650 | |
#Net of foreign taxes | | $ | 69,064 | |
| | | | |
22 | | Annual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
| | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017 | |
Increase (decrease) in net assets: | | | | | | | | |
Operations: | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | | $ | 1,433,895 | | | $ | 747,100 | |
Net realized gain (loss) | | | 514,486 | | | | (73,447 | ) |
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | | (1,323,828 | ) | | | 5,154,198 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | | | 624,553 | | | | 5,827,851 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Distributions to shareholders from: | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income: | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | (804,999 | ) | | | (504,180 | ) |
Class C | | | (86,434 | ) | | | (61,544 | ) |
Class R | | | (1,229 | ) | | | (1,914 | ) |
Class R6 | | | (25,039 | ) | | | (272 | ) |
Advisor Class | | | (146,403 | ) | | | (43,103 | ) |
| | | | |
Total distributions to shareholders | | | (1,064,104 | ) | | | (611,013 | ) |
| | | | |
Capital share transactions: (Note 2) | | | | | | | | |
Class A | | | 12,877,725 | | | | 11,321,710 | |
Class C | | | 1,343,368 | | | | 2,885,515 | |
Class R | | | (9,991 | ) | | | 19,672 | |
Class R6 | | | 1,756,159 | | | | — | |
Advisor Class | | | 4,073,885 | | | | 3,738,902 | |
| | | | |
Total capital share transactions | | | 20,041,146 | | | | 17,965,799 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | | | 19,601,595 | | | | 23,182,637 | |
Net assets: | | | | | | | | |
Beginning of year | | | 53,619,072 | | | | 30,436,435 | |
| | | | |
| | |
End of year | | $ | 73,220,667 | | | $ | 53,619,072 | |
| | | | |
| | |
Undistributed net investment income included in net assets: | | | | | | | | |
End of year | | $ | 434,788 | | | $ | 336,878 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Annual Report | | 23 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Notes to Financial Statements
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies
Franklin Global Trust (Trust) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) as an open-end management investment company, consisting of four separate funds and applies the specialized accounting and reporting guidance in U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP). Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (Fund) is included in this report. The Fund offers five classes of shares: Class A, Class C, Class R, Class R6 and Advisor Class. Each class of shares may differ by its initial sales load, contingent deferred sales charges, voting rights on matters affecting a single class, its exchange privilege and fees due to differing arrangements for distribution and transfer agent fees.
The following summarizes the Fund’s significant accounting policies.
a. Financial Instrument Valuation
The Fund’s investments in financial instruments are carried at fair value daily. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The Fund calculates the net asset value (NAV) per share each business day as of 4 p.m. Eastern time or the regularly scheduled close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), whichever is earlier. Under compliance policies and procedures approved by the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the Board), the Fund’s administrator has responsibility for oversight of valuation, including leading the cross-functional Valuation Committee (VC). The VC provides administration and oversight of the Fund’s valuation policies and procedures, which are approved annually by the Board. Among other things, these procedures allow the Fund to utilize independent pricing services, quotations from securities and financial instrument dealers, and other market sources to determine fair value.
Equity securities listed on an exchange or on the NASDAQ National Market System are valued at the last quoted sale price or the official closing price of the day, respectively. Foreign equity securities are valued as of the close of trading on the foreign stock exchange on which the security is primarily traded, or as of 4 p.m. Eastern time. The value is then converted into its U.S. dollar equivalent at the foreign exchange rate in effect at 4 p.m. Eastern time on the day that the value of the security is determined. Over-the-counter (OTC) securities are valued within the range of the most recent quoted bid and ask
prices. Securities that trade in multiple markets or on multiple exchanges are valued according to the broadest and most representative market. Certain equity securities are valued based upon fundamental characteristics or relationships to similar securities.
Investments in open-end mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV.
The Fund has procedures to determine the fair value of financial instruments for which market prices are not reliable or readily available. Under these procedures, the VC convenes on a regular basis to review such financial instruments and considers a number of factors, including significant unobservable valuation inputs, when arriving at fair value. The VC primarily employs a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the investment to determine the fair value of the investment. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the investment are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the investments. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuations of such investments, the fair values may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had an active market existed. The VC employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches including a regular review of key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing or disposition analysis, and reviews of any related market activity.
Trading in securities on foreign securities stock exchanges and OTC markets may be completed before 4 p.m. Eastern time. In addition, trading in certain foreign markets may not take place on every Fund’s business day. Occasionally, events occur between the time at which trading in a foreign security is completed and 4 p.m. Eastern time that might call into question the reliability of the value of a portfolio security held by the Fund. As a result, differences may arise between the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities as determined at the foreign market close and the latest indications of value at 4 p.m. Eastern time. In order to minimize the potential for these differences, the VC monitors price movements following the close of trading in foreign stock markets through a series of country specific market proxies (such as baskets of American Depositary Receipts, futures contracts and exchange traded funds). These price movements are measured against established trigger thresholds for each specific market proxy to
| | | | |
24 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
assist in determining if an event has occurred that may call into question the reliability of the values of the foreign securities held by the Fund. If such an event occurs, the securities may be valued using fair value procedures, which may include the use of independent pricing services.
When the last day of the reporting period is a non-business day, certain foreign markets may be open on those days that the Fund’s NAV is not calculated, which could result in differences between the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities on the last business day and the last calendar day of the reporting period. Any significant security valuation changes due to an open foreign market are adjusted and reflected by the Fund for financial reporting purposes.
b. Foreign Currency Translation
Portfolio securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the exchange rate of such currencies against U.S. dollars on the date of valuation. The Fund may enter into foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of securities, income and expense items denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect on the transaction date. Portfolio securities and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies contain risks that those currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Occasionally, events may impact the availability or reliability of foreign exchange rates used to convert the U.S. dollar equivalent value. If such an event occurs, the foreign exchange rate will be valued at fair value using procedures established and approved by the Board.
The Fund does not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices on securities held. Such changes are included in net realized and unrealized gain or loss from investments in the Statement of Operations.
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 recorded amounts of dividends, interest, and foreign withholding taxes and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in foreign
exchange rates on foreign denominated assets and liabilities other than investments in securities held at the end of the reporting period.
c. Income and Deferred Taxes
It is the Fund’s policy to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code. The Fund intends to distribute to shareholders substantially all of its taxable income and net realized gains to relieve it from federal income and if applicable, excise taxes. As a result, no provision for U.S. federal income taxes is required.
The Fund may be subject to foreign taxation related to income received, capital gains on the sale of securities and certain foreign currency transactions in the foreign jurisdictions in which it invests. Foreign taxes, if any, are recorded based on the tax regulations and rates that exist in the foreign markets in which the Fund invests. When a capital gain tax is determined to apply, the Fund records an estimated deferred tax liability in an amount that would be payable if the securities were disposed of on the valuation date.
The Fund may recognize an income tax liability related to its uncertain tax positions under U.S. GAAP when the uncertain tax position has a less than 50% probability that it will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities based on its technical merits. As of July 31, 2018, the Fund has determined that no tax liability is required in its financial statements related to uncertain tax positions for any open tax years (or expected to be taken in future tax years). Open tax years are those that remain subject to examination and are based on the statute of limitations in each jurisdiction in which the Fund invests.
d. Security Transactions, Investment Income, Expenses and Distributions
Security transactions are accounted for on trade date. Realized gains and losses on security transactions are determined on a specific identification basis. Estimated expenses are accrued daily. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date except for certain dividends from securities where the dividend rate is not available. In such cases, the dividend is recorded as soon as the information is received by the Fund. Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributable earnings are determined according to income tax regulations (tax basis) and may differ from earnings recorded in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These differences may be permanent or temporary. Permanent differences are reclassified among capital
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 25 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
d. Security Transactions, Investment Income, Expenses and Distributions (continued)
accounts to reflect their tax character. These reclassifications have no impact on net assets or the results of operations. Temporary differences are not reclassified, as they may reverse in subsequent periods.
Common expenses incurred by the Trust are allocated among the Funds based on the ratio of net assets of each Fund to the combined net assets of the Trust or based on the ratio of number of shareholders of each Fund to the combined number of shareholders of the Trust. Fund specific expenses are charged directly to the Fund that incurred the expense.
Realized and unrealized gains and losses and net investment income, excluding class specific expenses, are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class. Differences in per share distributions by class are generally due to differences in class specific expenses.
e. Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
f. Guarantees and Indemnifications
Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified by the Trust against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, enters into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Trust expects the risk of loss to be remote.
2. Shares of Beneficial Interest
At July 31, 2018, there were an unlimited number of shares authorized (without par value). Transactions in the Fund’s shares were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, | |
| | | | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017a | |
| | | | |
| | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Shares | | | Amount | |
| | |
Class A Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 1,901,223 | | | $ | 26,037,978 | | | | 1,846,908 | | | $ | 22,519,248 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 58,708 | | | | 799,297 | | | | 37,190 | | | | 449,990 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (1,029,794) | | | | (13,959,550) | | | | (972,794) | | | | (11,647,528) | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 930,137 | | | $ | 12,877,725 | | | | 911,304 | | | $ | 11,321,710 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Class C Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 291,686 | | | $ | 3,949,510 | | | | 407,842 | | | $ | 4,869,479 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 6,336 | | | | 85,984 | | | | 5,185 | | | | 61,357 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (200,285) | | | | (2,692,126) | | | | (169,244) | | | | (2,045,321) | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 97,737 | | | $ | 1,343,368 | | | | 243,783 | | | $ | 2,885,515 | |
| | | | |
Class R Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 131 | | | $ | 1,797 | | | | 7,598 | | | $ | 91,810 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 90 | | | | 1,229 | | | | 145 | | | | 1,746 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (962) | | | | (13,017) | | | | (5,820) | | | | (73,884) | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | (741) | | | $ | (9,991) | | | | 1,923 | | | $ | 19,672 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
26 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year Ended July 31, | |
| | | | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017a | |
| | | | |
| | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Shares | | | Amount | |
Class R6 Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 172,071 | | | $ | 2,384,860 | | | | — | | | $ | — | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 1,824 | | | | 24,755 | | | | — | | | | — | |
Shares redeemed | | | (47,812) | | | | (653,456) | | | | — | | | | — | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 126,083 | | | $ | 1,756,159 | | | | — | | | $ | — | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Advisor Class Shares: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Shares sold | | | 886,769 | | | $ | 12,099,465 | | | | 394,717 | | | $ | 4,861,041 | |
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions | | | 10,529 | | | | 143,158 | | | | 3,276 | | | | 40,539 | |
Shares redeemed | | | (601,113) | | | | (8,168,738) | | | | (94,027) | | | | (1,162,678) | |
| | | | |
Net increase (decrease) | | | 296,185 | | | $ | 4,073,885 | | | | 303,966 | | | $ | 3,738,902 | |
| | | | |
aDuring the year, Class R6 did not report any share transactions
3. Transactions with Affiliates
Franklin Resources, Inc. is the holding company for various subsidiaries that together are referred to as Franklin Templeton Investments. Certain officers and trustees of the Trust are also officers and/or directors of the following subsidiaries:
| | |
| Subsidiary | | Affiliation |
| |
| Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC (FT Institutional) | | Investment manager |
| |
| Franklin Templeton Services, LLC (FT Services) | | Administrative manager |
| |
| Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) | | Principal underwriter |
| |
| Franklin Templeton Investor Services, LLC (Investor Services) | | Transfer agent |
| |
a. Management Fees
The Fund pays an investment management fee to FT Institutional based on the average daily net assets of the Fund as follows:
| | |
| Annualized Fee Rate | | Net Assets |
| |
| 1.000% | | Up to and including $500 million |
| |
| 0.900% | | Over $500 million, up to and including $1 billion |
| |
| 0.850% | | Over $1 billion, up to and including $1.5 billion |
| |
| 0.800% | | Over $1.5 billion, up to and including $6.5 billion |
| |
| 0.780% | | Over $6.5 billion, up to and including $11.5 billion |
| |
| 0.760% | | Over $11.5 billion, up to and including $16.5 billion |
| |
| 0.740% | | Over $16.5 billion, up to and including $19 billion |
| |
| 0.730% | | Over $19 billion, up to and including $21.5 billion |
| |
| 0.720% | | In excess of $21.5 billion |
| |
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the gross effective investment management fee rate was 1.000% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.
b. Administrative Fees
Under an agreement with FT Institutional, FT Services provides administrative services to the Fund. The fee is paid by FT Institutional based on the Fund’s average net assets, and is not an additional expense of the Fund.
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 27 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
3. Transactions with Affiliates (continued)
c. Distribution Fees
The Board has adopted distribution plans for each share class, with the exception of Class R6 and Advisor Class shares, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Fund’s Class A reimbursement distribution plan, the Fund reimburses Distributors for costs incurred in connection with the servicing, sale and distribution of the Fund’s shares up to the maximum annual plan rate. Under the Class A reimbursement distribution plan, costs exceeding the maximum for the current plan year cannot be reimbursed in subsequent periods. In addition, under the Fund’s Class C and R compensation distribution plans, the Fund pays Distributors for costs incurred in connection with the servicing, sale and distribution of the Fund’s shares up to the maximum annual plan rate for each class. The plan year, for purposes of monitoring compliance with the maximum annual plan rates, is February 1 through January 31.
The maximum annual plan rates, based on the average daily net assets, for each class, are as follows:
| | | | |
Class A | | | 0.35 | % |
Class C | | | 1.00 | % |
Class R | | | 0.50 | % |
The Board has set the current rate at 0.25% per year for Class A shares until further notice and approval by the Board.
d. Sales Charges/Underwriting Agreements
Front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSC) do not represent expenses of the Fund. These charges are deducted from the proceeds of sales of Fund shares prior to investment or from redemption proceeds prior to remittance, as applicable. Distributors has advised the Fund of the following commission transactions related to the sales and redemptions of the Fund’s shares for the year:
| | | | |
Sales charges retained net of commissions paid to unaffiliated brokers/dealers. | | $ | 81,683 | |
CDSC retained | | $ | 1,770 | |
e. Transfer Agent Fees
Each class of shares pays transfer agent fees to Investor Services for its performance of shareholder servicing obligations. Effective November 1, 2017, the fees are based on an annualized asset based fee of 0.02% plus a transaction based fee. Prior to November 1, 2017, the fees were account based fees that varied based on fund or account type. In addition, each class reimburses Investor Services for out of pocket expenses incurred and, except for Class R6, reimburses shareholder servicing fees paid to third parties. These fees are allocated daily based upon their relative proportion of such classes’ aggregate net assets. Class R6 pays Investor Services transfer agent fees specific to that class.
For the year ended July 31, 2018, the Fund paid transfer agent fees of $164,134, of which $69,312 was retained by Investor Services.
| | | | |
28 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
f. Investments in Affiliated Management Investment Companies
The Fund invests in one or more affiliated management investment companies for purposes other than exercising a controlling influence over the management or policies. Management fees paid by the Fund are waived on assets invested in the affiliated management investment companies, as noted in the Statement of Operations, in an amount not to exceed the management and administrative fees paid directly or indirectly by each affiliate. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the Fund held investments in affiliated management investment companies as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Number of Shares Held at Beginning of Year | | | Gross Additions | | | Gross Reductions | | | Number of Shares Held at End of Year | | | Value at End
of Year | | | Dividend Income | | | Realized Gain (Loss) | | | Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | |
| | |
Non-Controlled Affiliates | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio, 1.57% | | | 839,543 | | | | 23,087,153 | | | | (23,899,030 | ) | | | 27,666 | | | | $27,666 | | | | $9,393 | | | | $ — | | | | $ — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
g. Waiver and Expense Reimbursements
Effective February 1, 2018, FT Institutional and Investor Services have contractually agreed in advance to waive or limit their respective fees and to assume as their own expense certain expenses otherwise payable by the Fund so that the expenses (excluding distribution fees, and acquired fund fees and expenses) for Class A, Class C, Class R and Advisor Class of the Fund do not exceed 0.99%, and Class R6 does not exceed 0.82% based on the average net assets of each class (other than certain non-routine expenses or costs, including those relating to litigation, indemnification, reorganizations, and liquidations) until November 30, 2019. Total expenses waived or paid are not subject to recapture subsequent to the Fund’s fiscal year end. Prior to February 1, 2018, expenses for Class A, Class C, Class R and Advisor Class were limited to 1.15% and Class R6 were limited to 0.98%. Prior to December 1, 2017, the expenses for Class R6 were limited to 0.93%.
4. Expense Offset Arrangement
The Fund has entered into an arrangement with its custodian whereby credits realized as a result of uninvested cash balances are used to reduce a portion of the Fund’s custodian expenses. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the custodian fees were reduced as noted in the Statement of Operations.
5. Income Taxes
For tax purposes, capital losses may be carried over to offset future capital gains, if any. At July 31, 2018, the capital loss carryforwards were as follows:
| | | | |
Capital loss carryforwards not subject to expiration: | | | | |
Short term | | $ | 808,459 | |
Long term | | | 596,593 | |
| | | | |
Total capital loss carryforwards | | $ | 1,405,052 | |
| | | | |
During the year ended July 31, 2018, the Fund utilized $966,419 of capital loss carryforwards.
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended July 31, 2018 and 2017, was as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | | 2018 | | | 2017 | |
| | | | |
Distributions paid from ordinary income | | $ | 1,064,104 | | | $ | 611,013 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 29 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
5. Income Taxes (continued)
At July 31, 2018, the cost of investments, net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), and undistributed ordinary income for income tax purposes were as follows:
| | | | |
Cost of investments | | $ | 66,136,874 | |
| | | | |
| |
Unrealized appreciation | | $ | 8,712,174 | |
Unrealized depreciation | | | (1,825,185) | |
| | | | |
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | | $ | 6,886,989 | |
| | | | |
Distributable earnings: | | | | |
Undistributed ordinary income | | $ | 434,788 | |
| | | | |
Differences between income and/or capital gains as determined on a book basis and a tax basis are primarily due to differing treatments of pass-through entity income and wash sales.
6. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investments (excluding short term securities) for the year ended July 31, 2018, aggregated $87,265,184 and $66,524,087, respectively.
7. Concentration of Risk
Investing in foreign securities may include certain risks and considerations not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities, such as fluctuating currency values and changing local and regional economic, political and social conditions, which may result in greater market volatility. In addition, certain foreign securities may not be as liquid as U.S. securities.
8. Credit Facility
The Fund, together with other U.S. registered and foreign investment funds (collectively, Borrowers), managed by Franklin Templeton Investments, are borrowers in a joint syndicated senior unsecured credit facility totaling $2 billion (Global Credit Facility) which matures on February 8, 2019. This Global Credit Facility provides a source of funds to the Borrowers for temporary and emergency purposes, including the ability to meet future unanticipated or unusually large redemption requests.
Under the terms of the Global Credit Facility, the Fund shall, in addition to interest charged on any borrowings made by the Fund and other costs incurred by the Fund, pay its share of fees and expenses incurred in connection with the implementation and maintenance of the Global Credit Facility, based upon its relative share of the aggregate net assets of all of the Borrowers, including an annual commitment fee of 0.15% based upon the unused portion of the Global Credit Facility. These fees are reflected in other expenses in the Statement of Operations. During the year ended July 31, 2018, the Fund did not use the Global Credit Facility.
9. Fair Value Measurements
The Fund follows a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and the Fund’s own market assumptions (unobservable inputs). These inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s financial instruments and are summarized in the following fair value hierarchy:
| | • | Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical financial instruments |
| | • | Level 2 – other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar financial instruments, interest rates, prepayment speed, credit risk, etc.) |
| | | | |
30 | | Annual Report | | franklintempleton.com |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (continued)
| | • | Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of financial instruments) |
The input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with financial instruments at that level.
For movements between the levels within the fair value hierarchy, the Fund has adopted a policy of recognizing the transfers as of the date of the underlying event which caused the movement.
A summary of inputs used as of July 31, 2018, in valuing the Fund’s assets carried at fair value, is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Level 1 | | | Level 2 | | | Level 3 | | | Total | |
| | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Investments in Securities:a | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity Investments:b | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Electric Utilities | | $ | 12,028,353 | | | $ | 19,955 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 12,048,308 | |
All Other Equity Investments | | | 60,947,889 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 60,947,889 | |
Short Term Investments | | | 27,666 | | | | — | | | | — | | | | 27,666 | |
| | | | |
Total Investments in Securities | | $ | 73,003,908 | | | $ | 19,955 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 73,023,863 | |
| | | | |
aFor detailed categories, see the accompanying Statement of Investments.
bIncludes common stock as well as other equity investments.
10. Subsequent Events
The Fund has evaluated subsequent events through the issuance of the financial statements and determined that no events have occurred that require disclosure, except for the following:
On February 27, 2018, the Board approved an automatic conversion feature for Class C that will convert shareholders’ Class C shares into Class A shares after they have been held for 10 years. The conversion feature will become effective on a future date prior to the calendar year end of 2018. Further details are disclosed in the Fund’s Prospectus.
On May 18, 2018, the Board approved changes to certain front-end sales charges and dealer commissions on Class A shares. The changes will become effective on or about September 10, 2018. Further details are disclosed in the Fund’s Prospectus.
|
| Abbreviations |
|
| Selected Portfolio |
| |
| ADR American Depositary Receipt |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 31 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Trustees of Franklin Global Trust and Shareholders of Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the statement of investments, of Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund (the “Fund”) as of July 31, 2018, the related statement of operations for the year ended July 31, 2018, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended July 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of July 31, 2018, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended July 31, 2018 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements 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 of these financial statements 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 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, 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. 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. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent, and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Francisco, California
September 18, 2018
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in the Franklin Templeton funds since 1948.
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Tax Information (unaudited)
Under Section 854(b)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund hereby reports 58.39% of the ordinary income dividends as income qualifying for the dividends received deduction for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.
Under Section 854(b)(1)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund hereby reports the maximum amount allowable but no less than $2,246,237 as qualified dividends for purposes of the maximum rate under Section 1(h)(11) of the Internal Revenue Code for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018. Distributions, including qualified dividend income, paid during calendar year 2018 will be reported to shareholders on Form 1099-DIV by mid-February 2019. Shareholders are advised to check with their tax advisors for information on the treatment of these amounts on their individual income tax returns.
At July 31, 2017, more than 50% of Fund’s total assets were invested in securities of foreign issuers. In most instances, foreign taxes were withheld from income paid to the Fund on these investments. As shown in the table below, the Fund hereby reports to shareholders the foreign source income and foreign taxes paid, pursuant to Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code. This written statement will allow shareholders of record on September 14, 2017, to treat their proportionate share of foreign taxes paid by the Fund as having been paid directly by them. The shareholder shall consider these amounts as foreign taxes paid in the tax year in which they receive the Fund distribution.
The following table provides a detailed analysis of foreign tax paid, foreign source income, and foreign source qualified dividends as reported by the Fund, to Class A, Class C, Class R, Class R6, and Advisor Class shareholders of record.
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Class | | Foreign Tax Paid Per Share | | | Foreign Source Income Per Share | | | Foreign Source Qualified Dividends Per Share | |
| | |
| | | |
Class A | | | $0.0209 | | | | $0.1475 | | | | $0.1343 | |
Class C | | | $0.0209 | | | | $0.0934 | | | | $0.0851 | |
Class R | | | $0.0209 | | | | $0.1051 | | | | $0.0960 | |
Class R6 | | | $0.0209 | | | | $0.1777 | | | | $0.1620 | |
Advisor Class | | | $0.0209 | | | | $0.1703 | | | | $0.1554 | |
Foreign Tax Paid Per Share (Column 1) is the amount per share available to you, as a tax credit (assuming you held your shares in the Fund for a minimum of 16 days during the 31-day period beginning 15 days before the ex-dividend date of the Fund’s distribution to which the foreign taxes relate), or, as a tax deduction.
Foreign Source Income Per Share (Column 2) is the amount per share of income dividends attributable to foreign securities held by the Fund, plus any foreign taxes withheld on these dividends. The amounts reported include foreign source qualified dividends that have not been adjusted for the rate differential applicable to such dividend income.1
Foreign Source Qualified Dividends Per Share (Column 3) is the amount per share of foreign source qualified dividends, plus any foreign taxes withheld on these dividends. These amounts represent the portion of the Foreign Source Income reported to you in column 2 that were derived from qualified foreign securities held by the Fund.1
In February 2018, shareholders received Form 1099-DIV which included their share of taxes paid and foreign source income distributed during the calendar year 2017. The Foreign Source Income reported on Form 1099-DIV was not adjusted for the rate differential on foreign source qualified dividend income. Shareholders are advised to check with their tax advisors for information on the treatment of these amounts on their 2017 individual income tax returns.
At July 31, 2018, more than 50% of the Fund’s total assets were invested in securities of foreign issuers. In most instances, foreign taxes were withheld from income paid to the Fund on these investments. The Fund elects to treat foreign taxes paid as allowed under Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code. This election will allow shareholders of record as of the 2018 distribution date, to treat their proportionate share of foreign taxes paid by the Fund as having been paid directly by them. The shareholder shall consider these amounts as foreign taxes paid in the tax year in which they receive the Fund distribution.
1Qualified dividends are taxed at reduced long term capital gains tax rates. In determining the amount of foreign tax credit that may be applied against the U.S. tax liability of individuals receiving foreign source qualified dividends, adjustments may be required to the foreign tax credit limitation calculation to reflect the rate differential applicable to such dividend income. The rules however permit certain individuals to elect not to apply the rate differential adjustments for capital gains and/or dividends for any taxable year. Please consult your tax advisor and the instructions to Form 1116 for more information.
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
Special Meeting of Shareholders
MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS: OCTOBER 30, 2017 AND RECONVENED ON DECEMBER 15, 2017 AND DECEMBER 29, 2017
(UNAUDITED)
A Special Meeting of Shareholders of Franklin Global Trust was held at the offices of Franklin Templeton Investments, One Franklin Parkway, San Mateo, California on October 30, 2017 and reconvened on December 15, 2017 and December 29, 2017. The purpose of the meeting was to elect Trustees of Franklin Global Trust and to approve an amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities for the Fund. At the meeting, (i) the following persons were elected by the shareholders to serve as Trustees of Franklin Global Trust: Harris J. Ashton, Terrence J. Checki, Mary C. Choksi, Edith E. Holiday, Gregory E. Johnson, Rupert H. Johnson, Jr., J. Michael Luttig, Larry D. Thompson, and John B. Wilson and (ii) sufficient votes were not received to pass the proposal to approve the amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities. No other business was transacted at the meeting.
In connection with the meeting, management is aware that some shareholders received from the proxy solicitor numerous calls and mailings that may have been distracting. Management is taking steps to ensure that, in the future, for any new shareholder meeting solicitations that occur, such activity is not repeated. Management apologizes for any inconvenience that may have been caused as a result of such calls and mailings.
The results of the voting at the meeting are as follows:
Proposal 1. To elect a Board of Trustees:
| | | | | | | | |
| Name | | For | | | Withheld | |
| | |
| | |
Harris J. Ashton | | | 123,597,479 | | | | 3,571,398 | |
Terrence J. Checki | | | 123,690,572 | | | | 3,478,306 | |
Mary C. Choksi | | | 123,243,714 | | | | 3,925,163 | |
Edith E. Holiday | | | 121,178,523 | | | | 5,990,354 | |
Gregory E. Johnson | | | 123,694,217 | | | | 3,474,660 | |
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. | | | 123,621,068 | | | | 3,547,808 | |
J. Michael Luttig | | | 123,705,401 | | | | 3,463,476 | |
Larry D. Thompson | | | 123,162,505 | | | | 4,006,372 | |
John B. Wilson | | | 123,573,690 | | | | 3,595,187 | |
Total Trust Shares Outstanding*: 162,995,191
* As of the record date.
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
Proposal 2. To approve an amended fundamental investment restriction regarding investments in commodities:
| | | | |
| | | Shares | |
| | |
| |
For | | | 1,822,002 | |
Against | | | 44,966 | |
Abstain | | | 67,419 | |
Broker Non-Votes | | | 960,990 | |
Total Fund Shares Voted | | | 2,895,378 | |
Total Fund Shares Outstanding* | | | 4,065,333 | |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 35 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Board Members and Officers
The name, year of birth and address of the officers and board members, as well as their affiliations, positions held with the Trust, principal occupations during at least the past five years and number of US registered portfolios overseen in the Franklin Templeton Investments fund complex, are shown below. Generally, each board member serves until that person’s successor is elected and qualified.
Independent Board Members
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of
Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
Harris J. Ashton (1932) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2000 | | 136 | | Bar-S Foods (meat packing company) (1981-2010). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; and formerly, Director, RBC Holdings, Inc. (bank holding company) (until 2002); and President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, General Host Corporation (nursery and craft centers) (until 1998). |
| | | | |
Terrence J. Checki (1945) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since December 2017 | | 112 | | Hess Corporation (exploration of oil and gas) (2014-present). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Member of the Council on Foreign Relations (1996-present); Member of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations (1999-present); member of the Board of Trustees of the Economic Club of New York (2013-present); member of the Board of Trustees of the Foreign Policy Association (2005-present) and member of various other boards of trustees and advisory boards; and formerly, Executive Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and Head of its Emerging Markets and Internal Affairs Group and Member of Management Committee (1995-2014); and Visiting Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (2014). |
| | | | |
Mary C. Choksi (1950) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2014 | | 136 | | Avis Budget Group Inc. (car rental) (2007-present), Omnicom Group Inc. (advertising and marketing communications services) (2011-present) and White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (holding company) (2017-present). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; and formerly, Founder and Senior Advisor, Strategic Investment Group (investment management group) (2015-2017); Founding Partner and Senior Managing Director, Strategic Investment Group (1987-2015); Founding Partner and Managing Director, Emerging Markets Management LLC (investment management firm) (1987-2011); and Loan Officer/Senior Loan Officer/Senior Pension Investment Officer, World Bank Group (international financial institution) (1977-1987). |
| | | | |
Edith E. Holiday (1952) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2000 | | 136 | | Hess Corporation (exploration of oil and gas) (1993-present), Canadian National Railway (railroad) (2001-present), White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (holding company) (2004-present), Santander Consumer USA Holdings, Inc. (consumer finance) (2016-present), RTI International Metals, Inc. (manufacture and distribution of titanium) (1999-2015) and H.J. Heinz Company (processed foods and allied products) (1994-2013). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director or Trustee of various companies and trusts; and formerly, Assistant to the President of the United States and Secretary of the Cabinet (1990-1993); General Counsel to the United States Treasury Department (1989-1990); and Counselor to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and Public Liaison – United States Treasury Department (1988-1989). |
| | | | |
J. Michael Luttig (1954) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2009 | | 136 | | Boeing Capital Corporation (aircraft financing) (2006-2013). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
| Executive Vice President, General Counsel and member of the Executive Council, The Boeing Company (aerospace company) (2006-present); |
| and formerly, Federal Appeals Court Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit (1991-2006). | | |
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Independent Board Members (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
Larry D. Thompson (1945) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2007 | | 136 | | The Southern Company (energy company) (2014-present; previously 2010-2012), Graham Holdings Company (education and media organization) (2011-present) and Cbeyond, Inc. (business communications provider) (2010-2012). |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director of various companies; Counsel, Finch McCranie, LLP (law firm) (2015-present); Independent Compliance Monitor and Auditor, Volkswagen AG (manufacturer of automobiles and commercial vehicles) (2017-present); John A. Sibley Professor of Corporate and Business Law, University of Georgia School of Law (2015-present; previously 2011-2012); and formerly, Executive Vice President – Government Affairs, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, PepsiCo, Inc. (consumer products) (2012-2014); Senior Vice President - Government Affairs, General Counsel and Secretary, PepsiCo, Inc. (2004-2011); Senior Fellow of The Brookings Institution (2003-2004); Visiting Professor, University of Georgia School of Law (2004); and Deputy Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice (2001-2003). |
| | | | |
John B. Wilson (1959) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Lead Independent Trustee | | Trustee since 2006 and Lead Independent Trustee since 2008 | | 112 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
President and Founder, Hyannis Port Capital, Inc. (real estate and private equity investing) (2002-present); Senior Advisor, McKinsey & Co. (consulting) (2017-present); serves on private and non-profit boards; and formerly, President, Staples International and Head of Global Transformation (office supplies) (2012-2016); Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, Gap, Inc. (retail) (1996-2000); Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President – Finance and Strategy, Staples, Inc. (1992-1996); Senior Vice President – Corporate Planning, Northwest Airlines, Inc. (airlines) (1990-1992); and Vice President and Partner, Bain & Company (consulting firm) (1986-1990). |
Interested Board Members and Officers | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
**Gregory E. Johnson (1961) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Trustee | | Since 2007 | | 150 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Chairman of the Board, Member – Office of the Chairman, Director and Chief Executive Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.; officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 42 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice Chairman, Investment Company Institute; and formerly, President, Franklin Resources, Inc. (1994-2015). |
| | | | |
**Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (1940) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chairman of the Board and Trustee | | Since 2013 | | 136 | | None |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Vice Chairman, Member - Office of the Chairman and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Franklin Advisory Services, LLC; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 40 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Alison E. Baur (1964) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2012 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
| Deputy General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 37 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
Gaston Gardey (1967) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Treasurer, U.S. Fund Administration & Reporting, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Aliya S. Gordon (1973) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Steven J. Gray (1955) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2009 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. and FASA, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Matthew T. Hinkle (1971) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Chief Executive Officer – Finance and Administration | | Since 2017 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, LLC; officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; and formerly, Vice President, Global Tax (2012-April 2017) and Treasurer/Assistant Treasurer, Franklin Templeton Investments (2009-2017). |
| | | | |
Edward B. Jamieson (1948) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | President and Chief Executive Officer – Investment Management | | Since 2010 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
President and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC; and officer and/or trustee, as the case may be, of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 10 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Robert Lim (1948) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President –AML Compliance | | Since 2016 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC; Chief Compliance Officer, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Investor Services, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Christopher J. Molumphy (1962) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2000 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director and Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 21 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
| | | | | | | | |
Name, Year of Birth and Address | | Position | | Length of Time Served | | Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Board Member* | | Other Directorships Held During at Least the Past 5 Years |
|
| | | | |
Kimberly H. Novotny (1972) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Vice President | | Since 2013 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
| Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President and Corporate Secretary, Fiduciary Trust International of the South; Vice President, Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC; Assistant Secretary, Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Robert C. Rosselot (1960) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Chief Compliance Officer | | Since 2013 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Director, Global Compliance, Franklin Templeton Investments; Vice President, Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC; officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments; and formerly, Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments (2007-2013); and Secretary and Vice President, Templeton Group of Funds (2004-2013). |
| | | | |
Karen L. Skidmore (1952) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President and Secretary | | Since 2006 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Navid J. Tofigh (1972) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2015 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Craig S. Tyle (1960) One Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403-1906 | | Vice President | | Since 2005 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
General Counsel and Executive Vice President, Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
| | | | |
Lori A. Weber (1964) 300 S.E. 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1923 | | Vice President | | Since 2011 | | Not Applicable | | Not Applicable |
| | |
| Principal Occupation During at Least the Past 5 Years: | | | | |
Senior Associate General Counsel, Franklin Templeton Investments; Assistant Secretary, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Vice President and Secretary, Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC; and officer of 44 of the investment companies in Franklin Templeton Investments. |
*We base the number of portfolios on each separate series of the US registered investment companies within the Franklin Templeton Investments fund complex. These portfolios have a common investment manager or affiliated investment managers.
**Gregory E. Johnson is considered to be an interested person of the Fund under the federal securities laws due to his position as an officer and director of Franklin Resources, Inc. (Resources), which is the parent company of the Fund’s investment manager and distributor. Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. is considered to be an interested person of the Fund under the federal securities laws due to his position as officer and director and major shareholder of Resources.
Note 1: Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. is the uncle of Gregory E. Johnson.
Note 2: Officer information is current as of the date of this report. It is possible that after this date, information about officers may change.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission require the Fund to disclose whether the Fund’s Audit Committee includes at least one member who is an audit committee financial expert within the meaning of such Act and Rules. The Fund’s Board has determined that there is at least one such financial expert on the Audit Committee and has designated John B. Wilson as its audit committee financial expert. The Board believes that Mr. Wilson qualifies as such an expert in view of his extensive business background and experience, including service as chief financial officer of Staples, Inc. from 1992 to 1996. Mr. Wilson has been a Member and Chairman of the Fund’s Audit Committee since 2006. As a result of such background and
| | | | |
franklintempleton.com | | Annual Report | | 39 |
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Interested Board Members and Officers (continued)
experience, the Board believes that Mr. Wilson has acquired an understanding of generally accepted accounting principles and financial statements, the general application of such principles in connection with the accounting estimates, accruals and reserves, and analyzing and evaluating financial statements that present a breadth and level of complexity of accounting issues generally comparable to those of the Fund, as well as an understanding of internal controls and procedures for financial reporting and an understanding of audit committee functions. Mr. Wilson is an independent Board member as that term is defined under the relevant Securities and Exchange Commission Rules and Releases.
The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) includes additional information about the board members and is available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders may call (800) DIAL BEN/342-5236 to request the SAI.
| | | | |
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
Shareholder Information
Board Review of Investment Management Agreements
FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund
(Fund)
At an in-person meeting held on February 27, 2018 (Meeting), the Board of Trustees (Board) of Franklin Global Trust (Trust), including a majority of the trustees who are not “interested persons” as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (Independent Trustees), reviewed and approved the continuance of the investment management agreement between Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC (Manager) and the Trust, on behalf of the Fund (Management Agreement) for an additional one-year period. The Independent Trustees received advice from and met separately with Independent Trustee counsel in considering whether to approve the continuation of the Management Agreement.
In considering the continuation of the Management Agreement, the Board reviewed and considered information provided by the Manager at the Meeting and throughout the year at meetings of the Board and its committees. The Board also reviewed and considered information provided in response to a detailed set of requests for information submitted to the Manager by Independent Trustee counsel on behalf of the Independent Trustees in connection with the annual contract renewal process. In addition, prior to the Meeting, the Independent Trustees held a telephonic contract renewal meeting at which the Independent Trustees conferred amongst themselves and Independent Trustee counsel about contract renewal matters. The Board reviewed and considered all of the factors it deemed relevant in approving the continuance of the Management Agreement, including, but not limited to: (i) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Manager; (ii) the investment performance of the Fund; (iii) the costs of the services provided and profits realized by the Manager and its affiliates from the relationship with the Fund; (iv) the extent to which economies of scale are realized as the Fund grows; and (v) whether fee levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund investors.
In approving the continuance of the Management Agreement, the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, determined that the terms of the Management Agreement are fair and reasonable and that the continuance of such Management Agreement is in the interests of the Fund and its shareholders. While attention was given to all information
furnished, the following discusses some primary factors relevant to the Board’s determination.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the nature, extent and quality of investment management services provided by the Manager and its affiliates to the Fund and its shareholders. This information included, among other things, the qualifications, background and experience of the senior management and investment personnel of the Manager; the structure of investment personnel compensation; oversight of third-party service providers; investment performance reports and related financial information for the Fund; reports on expenses, shareholder services, marketing support payments made to financial intermediaries and third party servicing arrangements; legal and compliance matters; risk controls; pricing and other services provided by the Manager and its affiliates; and management fees charged by the Manager and its affiliates to U.S. funds and other accounts, including management’s explanation of differences among accounts where relevant. The Board also reviewed and considered an annual report on payments made by Franklin Templeton Investments (FTI) or the Fund to financial intermediaries, as well as a memorandum relating to third-party servicing arrangements in response to a guidance update in 2016 from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) relating to mutual fund distribution and sub-accounting fees. The Board noted management’s continuing efforts and expenditures in establishing effective business continuity plans and developing strategies to address areas of heightened concern in the mutual fund industry, such as cybersecurity and liquidity risk management. The Board also recognized management’s commitment to facilitating Board oversight of particular areas, including derivatives and payments to intermediaries, by enhanced reporting.
The Board also reviewed and considered the benefits provided to Fund shareholders of investing in a fund that is part of the Franklin Templeton family of funds. The Board noted the financial position of Franklin Resources, Inc. (FRI), the Manager’s parent, and its commitment to the mutual fund business as evidenced by its continued introduction of new funds, reassessment of the fund offerings in response to the market environment and project initiatives and capital investments relating to the services provided to the Fund by the FTI organization.
Following consideration of such information, the Board was satisfied with the nature, extent and quality of services provided
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SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
by the Manager and its affiliates to the Fund and its shareholders.
Fund Performance
The Board reviewed and considered the performance results of the Fund over various time periods ended December 31, 2017. The Board considered the performance returns for the Fund in comparison to the performance returns of mutual funds deemed comparable to the Fund included in a universe (Performance Universe) selected by Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (Broadridge), an independent provider of investment company data. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge to select the mutual funds included in a Performance Universe. The Board also reviewed and considered Fund performance reports provided and discussions that occurred with portfolio managers at Board meetings throughout the year. A summary of the Fund’s performance results is below.
The Performance Universe for the Fund included the Fund and all retail and institutional global infrastructure funds. The Board noted that the Fund’s annualized total return for the one-and three-year periods was above the median of its Performance Universe. The Board concluded that the Fund’s performance was satisfactory, further noting that the Fund has been in operation for less than five years.
Comparative Fees and Expenses
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the Fund’s actual total expense ratio and its various components, including, as applicable, management fees; transfer agent expenses; underlying fund expenses; Rule 12b-1 and non-Rule 12b-1 service fees; and other non-management fees. The Board also noted the quarterly and annual reports it receives on all marketing support payments made by FTI to financial intermediaries. The Board considered the actual total expense ratio and, separately, the contractual management fee rate, without the effect of fee waivers (Management Rate), if any, of the Fund in comparison to the median expense ratio and median Management Rate, respectively, of other mutual funds deemed comparable to and with a similar expense structure as the Fund selected by Broadridge (Expense Group). Broadridge fee and expense data is based upon information taken from each fund’s most recent annual report, which reflects historical asset levels that may be quite different from those currently existing, particularly in a period of market volatility. While recognizing such inherent limitation and the fact that expense ratios and Management Rates generally increase as assets decline and decrease as assets grow, the Board believed the
independent analysis conducted by Broadridge to be an appropriate measure of comparative fees and expenses. The Broadridge Management Rate includes administrative charges, and the actual total expense ratio, for comparative consistency, was shown for Class A shares for funds with multiple classes of shares. The Board received a description of the methodology used by Broadridge to select the mutual funds included in an Expense Group.
The Expense Group for the Fund included the Fund and eight other global infrastructure funds. The Board noted that the Management Rate for the Fund was equal to the median of its Expense Group, but its actual total expense ratio was below the median of its Expense Group. The Board concluded that the Management Rate charged to the Fund is reasonable. In doing so, the Board noted that the Fund’s actual total expense ratio reflected a fee waiver from management.
Profitability
The Board reviewed and considered information regarding the profits realized by the Manager and its affiliates in connection with the operation of the Fund. In this respect, the Board considered the Fund profitability analysis provided by the Manager that addresses the overall profitability of FTI’s U.S. fund business, as well as its profits in providing investment management and other services to each of the individual funds during the 12-month period ended September 30, 2017, being the most recent fiscal year-end for FRI. The Board noted that although management continually makes refinements to its methodologies used in calculating profitability in response to organizational and product related changes, the overall methodology has remained consistent with that used in the Fund’s profitability report presentations from prior years. Additionally, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, auditor to Franklin Resources, Inc. and certain Franklin Templeton funds, has been engaged by the Manager to periodically review and assess the allocation methodologies to be used solely by the Fund’s Board with respect to the profitability analysis.
The Board noted management’s belief that costs incurred in establishing the infrastructure necessary for the type of mutual fund operations conducted by the Manager and its affiliates may not be fully reflected in the expenses allocated to the Fund in determining its profitability, as well as the fact that the level of profits, to a certain extent, reflected operational cost savings and efficiencies initiated by management. The Board also noted management’s expenditures in improving shareholder services provided to the Fund, as well as the need to implement systems
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FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST
FRANKLIN GLOBAL LISTED INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
and meet additional regulatory and compliance requirements resulting from recent SEC and other regulatory requirements.
The Board also considered the extent to which the Manager and its affiliates might derive ancillary benefits from fund operations, including revenues generated from transfer agent services, potential benefits resulting from personnel and systems enhancements necessitated by fund growth, as well as increased leverage with service providers and counterparties. Based upon its consideration of all these factors, the Board concluded that the level of profits realized by the Manager and its affiliates from providing services to the Fund was not excessive in view of the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund.
Economies of Scale
The Board reviewed and considered the extent to which the Manager may realize economies of scale, if any, as the Fund grows larger and whether the Fund’s management fee structure reflects any economies of scale for the benefit of shareholders. With respect to possible economies of scale, the Board noted the existence of management fee breakpoints, which operate generally to share any economies of scale with a Fund’s shareholders by reducing the Fund’s effective management fees as the Fund grows in size. The Board considered the Manager’s view that any analyses of potential economies of scale in managing a particular fund are inherently limited in light of the joint and common costs and investments the Manager incurs across the Franklin Templeton family of funds as a whole. The Board noted that the Fund has not yet reached an asset size that would likely enable the Fund to achieve economies of scale, but concluded that to the extent economies of scale may be realized by the Manager and its affiliates, the Fund’s management fee structure provided a sharing of benefits with the Fund and its shareholders as the Fund grows.
Conclusion
Based on its review, consideration and evaluation of all factors it believed relevant, including the above-described factors and conclusions, the Board unanimously approved the continuation of the Management Agreement for an additional one-year period.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
The Fund’s investment manager has established Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures (Policies) that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities. Shareholders may view the Fund’s complete Policies online at franklintempleton.com. Alternatively, shareholders may request
copies of the Policies free of charge by calling the Proxy Group collect at (954) 527-7678 or by sending a written request to: Franklin Templeton Companies, LLC, 300 S.E. 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, Attention: Proxy Group. Copies of the Fund’s proxy voting records are also made available online at franklintempleton.com and posted on the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov and reflect the most recent 12-month period ended June 30.
Quarterly Statement of Investments
The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, files a complete statement of investments with the US Securities and Exchange Commission for the first and third quarters for each fiscal year on Form N-Q. Shareholders may view the filed Form N-Q by visiting the Commission’s website at sec.gov. The filed form may also be viewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information regarding the operations of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.
Householding of Reports and Prospectuses
You will receive the Fund’s financial reports every six months as well as an annual updated summary prospectus (prospectus available upon request). To reduce Fund expenses, we try to identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the financial reports and summary prospectus. This process, called “householding,” will continue indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you prefer not to have these documents householded, please call us at (800) 632-2301. At any time you may view current prospectuses/summary prospectuses and financial reports on our website. If you choose, you may receive these documents through electronic delivery.
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 | | Annual Report and Shareholder Letter | | |
| | Franklin Global Listed Infrastructure Fund | | |
| | Investment Manager | | |
| | Franklin Templeton Institutional, LLC | | |
| | Distributor | | |
| | Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. | | |
| | (800) DIAL BEN® / 342-5236 | | |
| | franklintempleton.com | | |
| | Shareholder Services | | |
| | (800) 632-2301 | | |
Authorized for distribution only when accompanied or preceded by a summary prospectus and/or prospectus. Investors should carefully consider a fund’s investment goals, risks, charges and expenses before investing. A prospectus contains this and other information; please read it carefully before investing.
To help ensure we provide you with quality service, all calls to and from our service areas are monitored and/or recorded.
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| © 2018 Franklin Templeton Investments. All rights reserved. | | 997 A 09/18 |
Item 2. Code of Ethics.
(a) The Registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to its principal executive officers and principal financial and accounting officer.
(c) N/A
(d) N/A
(f) Pursuant to Item 12(a)(1), the Registrant is attaching as an exhibit a copy of its code of ethics that applies to its principal executive officers and principal financial and accounting officer.
Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.
(a)(1) The Registrant has an audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee.
(2) The audit committee financial expert is John B. Wilson and he is “independent” as defined under the relevant Securities and Exchange Commission Rules and Releases.
Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
(a) Audit Fees
The aggregate fees paid to the principal accountant for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the registrant’s annual financial statements or for services that are normally provided by the principal accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements were $195,462 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018 and $238,423 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017.
(b) Audit-Related Fees
There were no fees paid to the principal accountant for assurance and related services rendered by the principal accountant to the registrant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the registrant’s financial statements and are not reported under paragraph (a) of Item 4.
There were no fees paid to the principal accountant for assurance and related services rendered by the principal accountant to the registrant’s investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of their financial statements.
(c) Tax Fees
There were no fees paid to the principal accountant for professional services rendered by the principal accountant to the registrant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.
The aggregate fees paid to the principal accountant for professional services rendered by the principal accountant to the registrant’s investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning were $116,000 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018 and $16,250 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017. The services for which these fees were paid included tax compliance services related to year end, and tax consulting services related to the operating agreement and term sheet for the launch of a new fund.
(d) All Other Fees
The aggregate fees paid to the principal accountant for products and services rendered by the principal accountant to the registrant not reported in paragraphs (a)-(c) of Item 4 were $926 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018 and $0 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017. The services for which these fees were paid included review of materials provided to the fund Board in connection with the investment management contract renewal process.
The aggregate fees paid to the principal accountant for products and services rendered by the principal accountant to the registrant’s investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant, other than services reported in paragraphs (a)-(c) of Item 4 were $109,225 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018 and $258,717 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017. The services for which these fees were paid included preparation and review of materials provided to the fund Board in connection with the investment management contract renewal process and derivatives assessment, compliance examination for Investment Advisor Act rule 204-2 and 206-4(2), account
maintenance project, training on partnership tax accounting and capital account maintenance, benchmarking services in connection with the ICI TA survey, assets under management certification, and the issuance of an Auditors’ Certificate for South Korean regulatory shareholder disclosures.
(e) (1) The registrant’s audit committee is directly responsible for approving the services to be provided by the auditors, including:
(i) pre-approval of all audit and audit related services;
(ii) pre-approval of all non-audit related services to be provided to the Fund by the auditors;
(iii) pre-approval of all non-audit related services to be provided to the registrant by the auditors to the registrant’s investment adviser or to any entity that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the registrant’s investment adviser and that provides ongoing services to the registrant where the non-audit services relate directly to the operations or financial reporting of the registrant; and
(iv) establishment by the audit committee, if deemed necessary or appropriate, as an alternative to committee pre-approval of services to be provided by the auditors, as required by paragraphs (ii) and (iii) above, of policies and procedures to permit such services to be pre-approved by other means, such as through establishment of guidelines or by action of a designated member or members of the committee; provided the policies and procedures are detailed as to the particular service and the committee is informed of each service and such policies and procedures do not include delegation of audit committee responsibilities, as contemplated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, to management; subject, in the case of (ii) through (iv), to any waivers, exceptions or exemptions that may be available under applicable law or rules.
(e)(2) None of the services provided to the registrant described in paragraphs (b)-(d) of Item 4 were approved by the audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of regulation S-X.
(f) No disclosures are required by this Item 4(f).
(g) The aggregate non-audit fees paid to the principal accountant for services rendered by the principal accountant to the registrant and the registrant’s investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant were $226,151 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018 and $274,967 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017.
(h) The registrant’s audit committee of the board has considered whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the registrant’s investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant that were not pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence.
| Item 5. | Audit Committee of Listed Registrants. N/A |
| Item 6. | Schedule of Investments. N/A |
| Item 7. | Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies. N/A |
| Item 8. | Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies. N/A |
| Item 9. | Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers. N/A |
| Item 10. | Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders. |
There have been no changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the Registrant’s Board of Trustees that would require disclosure herein.
| Item 11. | Controls and Procedures. |
(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. The Registrant maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Registrant’s filings under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such information is accumulated and communicated to the Registrant’s management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. The Registrant’s management, including the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer, recognizes that any set of controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives.
Within 90 days prior to the filing date of this Shareholder Report on Form N-CSR, the Registrant had carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Registrant’s management, including the Registrant’s principal executive officer and the Registrant’s principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on such evaluation, the Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
(b) Changes in Internal Controls. There have been no changes in the Registrant’s internal controls or in other factors that could materially affect the internal controls over financial reporting subsequent to the date of their evaluation in connection with the preparation of this Shareholder Report on Form N-CSR.
| Item 12. | Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Company. N/A |
(a) (1) Code of Ethics
(a) (2) Certifications pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of Matthew T. Hinkle, Chief Executive Officer - Finance and Administration, and Gaston Gardey, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer
(b) Certifications pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of Matthew T. Hinkle, Chief Executive Officer - Finance and Administration, and Gaston Gardey, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer
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.
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| FRANKLIN GLOBAL TRUST |
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| By | | /s/ MATTHEW T. HINKLE |
| | Matthew T. Hinkle |
| | Chief Executive Officer – Finance and Administration |
Date September 27, 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 dates indicated.
| | |
| By | | /s/ MATTHEW T. HINKLE |
| | Matthew T. Hinkle |
| | Chief Executive Officer – Finance and Administration |
Date September 27, 2018
| | |
| By | | /s/ GASTON GARDEY |
| | Gaston Gardey |
| | Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer |
Date September 27, 2018
