UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-CSR
CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Investment Company Act file number: 811-9533
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Colonial Insured Municipal Fund
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(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
One Financial Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
Vincent Pietropaolo, Esq.
Columbia Management Group, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111
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(Name and address of agent for service)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 1-617-772-3698
Date of fiscal year end: 11/30/2004
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Date of reporting period: 11/30/2004
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Form N-CSR is to be used by management investment companies to file reports with
the Commission not later than 10 days after the transmission to stockholders of
any report that is required to be transmitted to stockholders under Rule 30e-1
under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30e-1). The Commission may
use the information provided on Form N-CSR in its regulatory, disclosure review,
inspection, and policymaking roles.
A registrant is required to disclose the information specified by Form N-CSR,
and the Commission will make this information public. A registrant is not
required to respond to the collection of information contained in Form N-CSR
unless the Form displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget
("OMB") control number. Please direct comments concerning the accuracy of the
information collection burden estimate and any suggestions for reducing the
burden to Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 Fifth Street, NW,
Washington, DC 20549-0609. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information
under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. Section 3507.
ITEM 1. REPORTS TO STOCKHOLDERS.
COLONIAL INSURED MUNICIPAL FUND
[photo of bridge]
ANNUAL REPORT
NOVEMBER 30, 2004
NOT FDIC INSURED
MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Dear Shareholder:
In 2004, Colonial Funds became part of the Bank of America family, one of the
largest, most respected financial institutions in the United States. As a direct
result of this merger, a number of changes are in the works that we believe
offer significant potential benefits for our shareholders. First, some funds may
be merged in order to eliminate redundancies, others may be liquidated and fund
management teams will be aligned to maximize performance potential. You will
receive more detailed information about these changes if your fund is affected
and you may be asked to vote on certain fund changes. In this matter, your
timely response will enable us to implement the changes in 2005.
As a result of these changes, we believe we will offer shareholders an even
stronger lineup of investment options. What will not change as we enter this
next phase of consolidation is our commitment to the highest standards of
performance and our dedication to superior service. Change for the good has
another name: it's called improvement. It helps move us forward, and we believe
that it represents progress for all our shareholders in their quest for
long-term financial success.
In the pages that follow, you'll find a detailed report from the fund's manager
or managers on key factors that influenced your fund's performance. We hope that
you will read the manager reports carefully and discuss any questions you might
have with your financial advisor.
As always, we thank you for choosing Colonial Funds. We appreciate your
continued confidence. And, we look forward to helping you keep your long-term
financial goals on target in the years to come.
Sincerely,
/s/ Christopher L. Wilson
Christopher L. Wilson
Head of Mutual Funds, Columbia Management
Christopher Wilson is Head of Mutual Funds for Columbia Management, responsible
for the day-to-day delivery of mutual fund services to the firm's investors.
With the exception of distribution, Chris oversees all aspects of the mutual
fund services operation, including treasury, investment accounting and
shareholder and broker services. Chris serves as Columbia Management's liaison
to the mutual fund boards of trustees.
Chris joined Bank of America in August 2004.
Economic and market conditions change frequently. There is no assurance that
trends described in this report will continue or commence.
PORTFOLIO MANAGER'S REPORT
PRICE PER SHARE AS OF 11/30/04 ($)
Net asset value 14.55
- ------------------------------
Market price 13.92
1-YEAR TOTAL RETURN AS
OF 11/30/04 (%)
Net asset value 4.98
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Market price (2.45)
Lipper Insured Municipal
Debt Funds (Leveraged)
Category average 4.00
- ------------------------------
All results shown assume reinvestment of distributions.
DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED
PER COMMON SHARE
12/01/03-11/30/04 ($)
1.02
- ------------------------------
A portion of the fund's income may be subject to the alternative minimum tax.
The fund may at times purchase tax-exempt securities at a discount from their
original issue price. Some or all of this discount may be included in the fund's
ordinary income, and any market discount is taxable when distributed.
TOP 5 SECTORS AS OF 11/30/04 (%)
Local general obligations 11.0
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Special non-property tax 9.2
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Hospitals 8.5
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Water & sewer 6.7
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Airports 6.5
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QUALITY BREAKDOWN
AS OF 11/30/04 (%)
AAA 83.1
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AA 5.0
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A 5.6
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BBB 2.0
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BB 0.7
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Non-rated 2.9
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Cash equivalents 0.7
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Sector and quality breakdowns are calculated as a percentage of total
investments. Ratings shown in the quality breakdown represent the lowest rating
assigned to a particular bond by one of the following nationally-recognized
rating agencies: Standard & Poor's, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies,
Inc., Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or Fitch Ratings Ltd.
Because the fund is actively managed, there is no guarantee that the fund will
continue to invest in these sectors or maintain this quality breakdown in the
future.
For the 12-month period ended November 30, 2004, Colonial Insured Municipal Fund
had a negative return of 2.45%, based on its market price. Changes in the market
price of the fund's shares reflect investor demand and are not necessarily
linked directly to changes in the fund's net asset value. The fund returned
4.98%, based on investment at net asset value. In a relatively volatile period
for bonds, the fund outperformed its peer group, the Lipper Insured Municipal
Debt Funds (Leveraged) Category, which averaged a 4.00% return over the same
period.1
During the period, we employed a strategy to improve the overall total return
characteristics of the fund. We reduced the fund's holdings in longer-maturity
premium coupon bonds priced to near-term call dates (the dates when bonds can be
redeemed before maturity). These bonds typically had higher coupons because they
were issued several years ago when interest rates were higher. We used the
proceeds to invest in non-callable bonds and bonds with good call protection,
maturing in approximately 20 years. We believed this maturity range offered good
potential for positive total returns, a belief that was borne out as interest
rates on intermediate bonds declined (and prices rose) during the period.
HIGH-YIELD BONDS AND LEVERAGED POSITIONS MADE POSITIVE CONTRIBUTIONS
The fund's performance was helped by our focus on intermediate bonds maturing in
10-20 years, which performed well during the period. The fund was also helped by
our decision to reduce exposure to short-term bonds (2-7 years). Yields in this
range generally rose, and prices declined, as the Federal Reserve Board (the
Fed) began to move the federal funds rate higher.
The fund's lower quality bonds (rated Baa or lower by Moody's) generally
helped performance. The category outperformed as demand for yield was strong in
a relatively low rate environment. Lower quality bonds also provided the fund
with higher income, which further contributed to the fund's total return.
Leveraged positions provided the fund with additional income during the period.
We have, in effect, "borrowed against" the fund's investment positions by
issuing preferred shares, which pay out a short-term variable rate. When these
preferred shares were issued in 1999, we invested the proceeds in bonds with
longer maturities. During this reporting period, the payout rate of preferred
shares was lower than the yield the fund earned from those longer-maturity
bonds. However, as short-term rates
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1 Lipper Inc., a widely respected data provider in the industry, calculates
an average return based on net asset value for mutual funds with similar
investment objectives as the fund.
1
PORTFOLIO MANAGER'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
rose, the fund's dividend to common shareholders was reduced. In addition, the
use of leverage increases the likelihood of share price volatility and market
risk.
SOLD AIRLINE SECURITIES
During the period, we reduced the fund's airline holdings. We sold bonds issued
by Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas for American Airlines. We decided to reduce exposure
to the sector and believed the sale price reflected a good value. In addition,
the airline industry continues to be hurt by rising fuel prices, labor issues
and increased competition.
FUND POSITIONED FOR MODERATE ECONOMIC GROWTH AND CONTROLLED INFLATION
If the economy continues to grow at a moderate pace and inflation is subdued, we
believe the Fed is likely to continue to raise short-term interest rates at a
measured pace. The four one-quarter point increases that it introduced between
June and November were anticipated and not especially disruptive to the
financial markets.2 In this environment, we plan to focus on longer
intermediate-term issues with good call protection, which we believe have the
potential to appreciate. If the economy accelerates faster or inflation grows
stronger than we anticipate, we would review our expectations and could change
our focus.
/S/ Kimberly Campbell
Kimberly Campbell has been the portfolio manager of Colonial Insured Municipal
Fund since October 2003. During the period March 2004 to April 2004, Ms.
Campbell was on a leave of absence. Ms. Campbell has been with Columbia
Management Advisors, Inc. or its predecessors or affiliate organizations since
1995.
Performance data quoted represents past performance and current performance may
be lower or higher. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The
values of fixed-income securities generally move inversely with changes in
interest rates such that when interest rates rise, bond values fall and vice
versa. Tax-exempt investing offers current tax-free income, but it also involves
certain risks. The value of the fund shares will be affected by interest rate
changes and the creditworthiness of issues held in the fund. Investing in high
yield securities offers the potential for high current income and attractive
total return, but involves certain risks. Interest income from certain
tax-exempt bonds may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax for
individuals and corporations. Please see Federal Income Tax Information.
- --------
2 The federal funds rate was increased a fifth time, to 2.25%, on December 14,
2004.
2
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO
November 30, 2004
MUNICIPAL BONDS - 156.9% PAR ($) VALUE ($)
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EDUCATION - 8.1%
EDUCATION - 4.2%
AR University Revenue,
Construction UAMS Campus,
Series 2004 B,
Insured: MBIA
5.000% 11/01/28 1,475,000 1,499,293
DC Catholic University of America,
Series 1999,
Insured: AMBAC
5.625% 10/01/29 (a) 1,000,000 1,077,820
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Education Total 2,577,113
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STUDENT LOAN - 3.9%
MA Educational Loan Authority,
Issue G, Series 2000 A, AMT,
Insured: MBIA
5.950% 12/01/15 355,000 366,278
MT Higher Education Student
Assistance Corp., Series 1999 B, AMT,
6.400% 12/01/32 2,000,000 2,086,580
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Student Loan Total 2,452,858
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EDUCATION TOTAL 5,029,971
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HEALTH CARE - 19.0%
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT - 1.9%
NY Dormitory Authority, Miriam Osborn
Memorial Home, Series 2000 B,
Insured: ACA Financial Guaranty Corp.
6.875% 07/01/19 500,000 563,470
NY Suffolk County Industrial
Development Agency, Jeffersons
Ferry, Series 1999 A,
7.200% 11/01/19 550,000 588,418
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Continuing Care Retirement Total 1,151,888
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HEALTH SERVICES - 3.5%
WI Health & Educational Facilities
Authority, Marshfield Clinic,
Series 1999,
Insured: RAD
Series 1999
6.250% 02/15/29 2,000,000 2,202,040
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Health Services Total 2,202,040
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HOSPITALS - 13.6%
CO Health Facilities Authority,
Parkview Medical Center, Inc.,
Series 2001,
6.600% 09/01/25 400,000 435,324
IA Finance Authority, Mercy Medical
Center, Series 1999,
Insured: FSA
5.750% 08/15/29 1,000,000 1,064,360
PAR ($) VALUE ($)
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IL Health Facilities Authority,
Swedish American Hospital,
Series 2000,
6.875% 11/15/30 500,000 549,990
ME Health & Higher Educational
Facilities Authority, Series 1999 B,
Insured: MBIA
6.000% 07/01/29 1,500,000 1,638,915
NV Henderson, Catholic Healthcare
West, Series 1999 A,
6.750% 07/01/20 500,000 546,210
OH Jackson, Consolidated
Health Systems, Series 1999,
Insured: RAD
6.250% 10/01/29 1,500,000 1,662,135
OK Industrial Authority, Series 1999 A,
Insured: MBIA
5.750% 08/15/29 2,000,000 2,169,440
WA Health Care Facilities Authority,
Kadlec Medical Center, Series 2001,
Insured: RAD
5.875% 12/01/21 300,000 328,482
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Hospitals Total 8,394,856
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HEALTH CARE TOTAL 11,748,784
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HOUSING - 6.8%
ASSISTED LIVING/SENIOR - 1.2%
DE Kent County, Heritage at Dover,
Series 1999, AMT,
7.625% 01/01/30 245,000 217,440
NC Medical Care Commission,
DePaul Community Facilities Project,
Series 1999,
7.625% 11/01/29 480,000 494,971
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Assisted Living/Senior Total 712,411
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MULTI-FAMILY - 0.8%
FL Broward County Housing Finance
Authority, Chaves Lake Apartment
Project, Series 2000 A, AMT,
7.500% 07/01/40 250,000 247,315
FL Clay County Housing Finance
Authority, Madison Commons
Apartments, Series 2000 A, AMT,
7.450% 07/01/40 250,000 248,845
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Multi-Family Total 496,160
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SINGLE FAMILY - 4.8%
AK Housing Finance Corp.,
Series 1999 A-1,
Insured: FHA
6.150% 06/01/39 1,575,000 1,646,159
CA Rural Home Mortgage Finance
Authority, Series 1998 A, AMT,
Guarantor: FNMA
6.350% 12/01/29 175,000 175,019
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
3
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
MUNICIPAL BONDS (CONTINUED) PAR ($) VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
HOUSING (CONTINUED)
SINGLE FAMILY (CONTINUED)
CO Housing Finance Authority:
Series 1998 D-2, AMT,
6.350% 11/01/29 560,000 575,495
Series 2000 B-2, AMT,
7.250% 10/01/31 110,000 113,169
OK Housing Finance Agency,
Series 2000 C-2, AMT,
7.550% 09/01/28 450,000 466,110
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Single Family Total 2,975,952
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HOUSING TOTAL 4,184,523
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- -----------------------------------------------------------
OTHER - 14.9%
OTHER - 3.6%
AL Incentives Financing Authority,
Series 1999 A,
Insured: AMBAC
6.000% 10/01/29 2,000,000 2,253,440
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Other Total 2,253,440
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POOL/BOND BANK - 1.7%
UT Water Finance Agency,
Series 2002 B,
Insured: AMBAC
5.125% 07/01/23 1,000,000 1,039,300
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Pool/Bond Bank Total 1,039,300
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REFUNDED/ESCROWED (b) - 9.6%
AL Jefferson County Sewer Authority,
Series 1999 A,
Insured: FGIC
5.750% 02/01/38 2,000,000 2,246,120
NY Dormitory Authority,
Series 1999 C,
Insured: MBIA
5.500% 07/01/29 1,000,000 1,123,760
PA Philadelphia, Series 1999 C,
Insured: MBIA
5.750% 03/01/29 1,750,000 1,974,648
WV Hospital Finance Authority,
Charleston Area Medical Center,
Series 2000,
6.750% 09/01/30 500,000 595,560
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Refunded/Escrowed Total 5,940,088
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OTHER TOTAL 9,232,828
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RESOURCE RECOVERY - 1.3%
DISPOSAL - 1.3%
CA Salinas Valley, Solid Waste
Authority, Series 2002, AMT,
Insured: AMBAC
5.125% 08/01/22 750,000 770,715
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Disposal Total 770,715
-----------
RESOURCE RECOVERY TOTAL 770,715
-----------
PAR ($) VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
TAX-BACKED - 51.1%
LOCAL APPROPRIATED - 5.8%
CA Sacramento City Financing
Authority, City Hall &
Redevelopment,
Series 2002 A,
Insured: FSA
5.000% 12/01/32 1,000,000 1,005,370
IL Chicago Park District,
Series 2004 A,
Insured: AMBAC
5.000% 01/01/25 1,000,000 1,025,230
IN Carmel Industrial School Building
Corp., First Mortgage,
Series 2003,
Insured: MBIA
5.000% 07/15/22 1,000,000 1,041,170
OK Grady County Correctional
Facilities, Series 1999,
Insured: MBIA
6.000% 11/01/29 500,000 542,630
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Local Appropriated Total 3,614,400
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LOCAL GENERAL OBLIGATIONS - 17.4%
CA Centinela Valley Union High School
District, Series 2002 A,
Insured: MBIA
5.250% 02/01/22 730,000 809,782
CA Empire Unified School District,
No. 1987-1-A, Series 2002,
Insured: AMBAC
(c) 10/01/18 1,665,000 859,107
CA Morgan Hill Unified School
District, Series 2002,
Insured: FGIC
(c) 08/01/21 1,000,000 436,170
CA Union Elementary School
District, Series 1999 A,
Insured: FGIC
(c) 09/01/16 1,400,000 818,454
CA Vallejo Unified School
District, Series 2002 A,
Insured: MBIA
5.900% 02/01/21 500,000 593,145
CA West Covina Unified School
District, Series 2002 A,
Insured: MBIA
5.800% 02/01/21 320,000 376,733
CT East Hartford, Series 2003,
Insured: FGIC
5.000% 05/01/11 1,000,000 1,102,890
IL Coles & Cumberland Counties
Unified School District,
Series 2000,
Insured: FSA
(c) 12/01/14 2,080,000 1,350,066
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
4
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
MUNICIPAL BONDS (CONTINUED) PAR ($) VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
TAX-BACKED (CONTINUED)
LOCAL GENERAL OBLIGATIONS (CONTINUED)
MI Jonesville Community Schools,
Series 1999,
Insured: FGIC
5.750% 05/01/20 2,000,000 2,198,180
RI North Kingstown, Series 1999,
Insured: FGIC
5.875% 10/01/25 2,000,000 2,222,680
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Local General Obligations Total 10,767,207
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SPECIAL NON-PROPERTY TAX - 14.7%
IL Metropolitan Pier & Exposition
Authority, McCormick Place
Expansion Project, Series 1999,
Insured: FGIC
5.500% 12/15/24 (a) 2,000,000 2,168,100
LA Ernest N. Morial, Exhibit Hall
Authority Special Tax,
Series 2004,
Insured: AMBAC
5.000% 07/15/23 2,000,000 2,081,900
MI Trunk Line Department of Treasury,
Series 2004,
Insured: FSA
5.250% 11/01/21 1,000,000 1,115,900
NJ Economic Development Authority,
Motor Vehicle Revenue, Series 2004 A,
Insured: MBIA
5.250% 07/01/26 2,000,000 2,159,460
PR Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
Highway & Transportation Authority,
Series 2002 E,
Insured: FSA
5.500% 07/01/23 1,000,000 1,145,520
VI Virgin Islands Public Finance
Authority, Series 1999,
6.500% 10/01/24 350,000 402,311
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Special Non-Property Tax Total 9,073,191
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SPECIAL PROPERTY TAX - 3.7%
CA Huntington Park Public Financing
Authority Revenue, Series 2004,
Insured: FSA
5.250% 09/01/19 1,190,000 1,315,045
CA Pittsburg Redevelopment Agency,
Los Medanos Project, Series 1999,
Insured: AMBAC
(c) 08/01/26 2,500,000 775,725
FL Lexington Oaks Community
Development District, Series 2000 A,
7.200% 05/01/30 185,000 193,880
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Special Property Tax Total 2,284,650
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PAR ($) VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
STATE APPROPRIATED - 3.6%
IL Department of Central Management
Services, Series 1999,
Insured: MBIA
5.850% 07/01/19 2,000,000 2,216,200
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State Appropriated Total 2,216,200
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STATE GENERAL OBLIGATIONS - 5.9%
CA, Series 2002,
Insured: AMBAC
6.000% 04/01/16 500,000 591,900
MA, Series 2004 C,
Insured: AMBAC
5.500% 12/01/24 2,000,000 2,256,280
PR Commonwealth of Puerto Rico,
Series 2004 A,
Insured: FSA
5.000% 07/01/31 750,000 815,768
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State General Obligations Total 3,663,948
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TAX-BACKED TOTAL 31,619,596
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TRANSPORTATION - 29.9%
AIR TRANSPORTATION - 6.9%
FL Miami-Dade County Industrial
Development Authority, Airis
Miami II, LLC, Series 1999 A, AMT,
Insured: AMBAC
6.000% 10/15/25 1,000,000 1,105,160
IL Chicago O'Hare International
Airport, United Airlines, Inc.,
Series 2000 A, AMT,
6.750% 11/01/11 (d) 500,000 175,305
MA Port Authority, US Airways, Inc.,
Series 1999, AMT,
Insured: MBIA
6.000% 09/01/21 2,500,000 2,580,675
MN Minneapolis & St. Paul Metropolitan
Airport Commission, Northwest
Airlines Corp., Series 2001 A, AMT,
7.000% 04/01/25 250,000 214,195
NC Charlotte/Douglas International
Airport, US Airways, Inc.:
Series 1998, AMT,
5.600% 07/01/27 (e) 200,000 92,372
Series 2000, AMT,
7.750% 02/01/28 (e) 250,000 122,235
-----------
Air Transportation Total 4,289,942
-----------
AIRPORTS - 10.4%
DC Metropolitan Washington Airports
Authority, Series 2003 A, AMT,
Insured: FGIC
5.500% 10/01/19 1,000,000 1,072,940
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
5
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
MUNICIPAL BONDS (CONTINUED) PAR ($) VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED)
AIRPORTS (CONTINUED)
NY Niagara Frontier Transportation
Authority, Series 1999 A, AMT,
Insured: MBIA
5.625% 04/01/29 2,000,000 2,068,660
TN Memphis-Shelby County,
Airport Authority,
Series 1999 D, AMT,
Insured: AMBAC
6.000% 03/01/24 3,000,000 3,266,430
-----------
Airports Total 6,408,030
-----------
PORTS - 5.4%
WA Seattle Special Port Authority,
Terminal 18, Series 1999 A,
Insured: MBIA
6.000% 09/01/29 3,000,000 3,372,360
-----------
Ports Total 3,372,360
-----------
TOLL FACILITIES - 2.6%
CO Northwest Parkway Public Highway
Authority, Series 2001 D,
7.125% 06/15/41 200,000 210,526
NY Triborough Bridge & Tunnel
Authority, Series 2002,
Insured: MBIA
5.500% 11/15/20 1,200,000 1,383,096
-----------
Toll Facilities Total 1,593,622
-----------
TRANSPORTATION - 4.6%
IN Transportation Financing Authority,
Highway Revenue, Series 2004 A,
Insured: FGIC
5.250% 06/01/20 1,000,000 1,078,320
NV Department of Business & Industry,
Las Vegas Monorail Project,
Series 2000,
7.375% 01/01/40 250,000 253,557
NY Metropolitan Transportation
Authority, Series 2002 A,
Insured: FSA
5.000% 11/15/30 1,500,000 1,517,640
-----------
Transportation Total 2,849,517
-----------
TRANSPORTATION TOTAL 18,513,471
-----------
- -----------------------------------------------------------
UTILITY - 25.8%
INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS - 1.3%
MI Midland County Economic
Development Corp., Series 2000, AMT,
6.875% 07/23/09 500,000 519,600
PAR ($) VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
PR Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
Industrial, Educational, Medical
& Environmental Cogeneration
Facilities, AES Project,
Series 2000, AMT,
6.625% 06/01/26 295,000 317,923
-----------
Independent Power Producers Total 837,523
-----------
INVESTOR OWNED - 8.5%
CA Pollution Control Financing
Authority, San Diego Gas
& Electric Co.,
Series 1991 A, AMT,
6.800% 06/01/15 500,000 586,345
HI Department of Budget & Finance,
Hawaiian Electric Co.,
Series 1999 C, AMT,
Insured: AMBAC
6.200% 11/01/29 2,000,000 2,228,840
TX Brazos River Authority:
Houston Industries, Inc.,
Series 1998 A,
Insured: AMBAC
5.125% 05/01/19 2,100,000 2,203,866
TXU Electric Co.,
Series 2003 C, AMT,
6.750% 10/01/38 215,000 232,645
-----------
Investor Owned Total 5,251,696
-----------
JOINT POWER AUTHORITY - 0.9%
NC Eastern Municipal Power Agency,
Series 1999 D,
6.700% 01/01/19 500,000 558,205
-----------
Joint Power Authority Total 558,205
-----------
MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC - 4.5%
CA Department of Water &
Power Supply, Series 2002 A,
Insured: AMBAC
5.500% 05/01/14 1,000,000 1,129,710
TX Lower Colorado River Authority,
Series 1999 A,
Insured: AMBAC
5.500% 05/15/21 1,500,000 1,639,290
-----------
Municipal Electric Total 2,769,000
-----------
WATER & SEWER - 10.6%
AZ Water System Revenue, Phoenix
Civic Improvement Corp.,
Series 2001,
Insured: FGIC
5.500% 07/01/21 1,000,000 1,143,790
FL Tallahassee Construction Utilities
System, Series 2001,
Insured: FGIC
5.500% 10/01/19 1,360,000 1,561,797
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
6
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
MUNICIPAL BONDS (CONTINUED) PAR ($) VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
UTILITY (CONTINUED)
WATER & SEWER (CONTINUED)
SC Lugoff-Elgin Water Authority,
Series 1999,
Insured: MBIA
6.050% 11/01/31 1,500,000 1,687,710
TX Houston,
Utility System Revenue,
Series 2004 A,
Insured: FSA
5.250% 05/15/20 2,000,000 2,156,020
-----------
Water & Sewer Total 6,549,317
-----------
UTILITY TOTAL 15,965,741
-----------
TOTAL MUNICIPAL BONDS
(cost of $90,138,277) 97,065,629
-----------
MUNICIPAL PREFERRED STOCK - 0.9%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
HOUSING - 0.9%
MULTI-FAMILY - 0.9%
Charter Mac Equity Issue Trust, AMT,
7.100% 06/30/09 (f) 500,000 562,600
-----------
TOTAL MUNICIPAL PREFERRED STOCK
(cost of $500,000) 562,600
-----------
INVESTMENT COMPANY - 0.0% SHARES
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Federated Tax-Free Obligations Fund 176 176
-----------
TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANY
(cost of $176) 176
-----------
SHORT-TERM OBLIGATIONS - 1.1% PAR ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
VARIABLE RATE DEMAND NOTES (g) - 1.1%
IA Hills Health Revenue, Mercy Hospital
Project, Series 2002
1.670% 08/01/32 100,000 100,000
MO Health & Educational Facilities
Authority Revenue,
Washington University,
Series 1996 C,
1.680% 04/01/25 200,000 200,000
NM Farmington Pollution Control Authority,
Arizona Public Service Co.,
Series 1994 B,
1.680% 09/01/24 100,000 100,000
WY Uinta County Pollution Control
Revenue, Chevron USA, Inc. Project
Series 1993,
1.680% 08/15/20 300,000 300,000
-----------
VARIABLE RATE DEMAND NOTES TOTAL 700,000
-----------
TOTAL SHORT-TERM OBLIGATIONS
(cost of $700,000) 700,000
-----------
VALUE ($)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 158.9%
(cost of $91,338,453) (h) 98,328,405
AUCTION PREFERRED SHARES PLUS
CUMULATIVE UNPAID DISTRIBUTIONS - (60.3)% (37,308,224)
OTHER ASSETS & LIABILITIES, NET - 1.4% 843,840
-----------
NET ASSETS APPLICABLE TO
COMMON SHAREHOLDERS - 100.0% 61,864,021
-----------
NOTES TO INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) The security or a portion of the security is pledged as collateral for open
futures contracts. At November 30, 2004, the total market value of
securities pledged amounted to $2,707,010.
(b) The Fund has been informed that each issuer has placed direct obligations of
the U.S. Government in an irrevocable trust, solely for the payment of
principal and interest.
(c) Zero coupon bond.
(d) The issuer has filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11, and is in
default of certain debt covenants. Income is not being accrued. As of
November 30, 2004, the value of this security represents 0.3% of net assets.
(e) The issuer has filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11, and is in
default of certain debt covenants. Income is being accrued. As of November
30, 2004, the value of these securities amounted to $214,607, which
represents 0.3% of net assets.
(f) Security exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities
Act of 1933. This security may be resold in transactions exempt from
registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At November 30,
2004, the value of this security represents 0.9% of net assets.
(g) Variable rate demand notes. These securities are payable upon demand and are
secured by letters of credit or other credit support agreements from banks.
The interest rates change periodically and the interest rates shown reflect
the rate as of November 30, 2004.
(h) Cost for federal income tax purposes is $91,268,336.
At November 30, 2004, the Fund held the following open short futures contracts:
AGGREGATE EXPIRATION UNREALIZED
TYPE CONTRACTS VALUE FACE VALUE DATE DEPRECIATION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10-Year U.S.
Treasury Note 127 $14,065,250 $14,040,634 Mar-05 $(24,616)
--------
Acronym Name
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AMBAC Ambac Assurance Corp.
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Co.
FHA Federal Housing Administration
FSA Financial Security Assurance, Inc.
MBIA MBIA Insurance Corp.
RAD Radian Asset Assurance, Inc.
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
7
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
At November 30, 2004, the Fund held investments in the following sectors:
% OF
HOLDINGS BY REVENUE SOURCE (UNAUDITED) NET ASSETS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Tax-Backed 51.1
Transportation 29.9
Utility 25.8
Health Care 19.0
Other 14.9
Education 8.1
Housing 7.7
Resource Recovery 1.3
Investment Company 0.0
Short-Term Obligations 1.1
Auction Preferred Shares (60.3)
Other Assets &Liabilities, Net 1.4
-----
100.0
-----
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
8
STATEMENT OF ASSETS & LIABILITIES
November 30, 2004
ASSETS:
Investments, at cost $ 91,338,453
------------
Investments, at value $ 98,328,405
Cash 24,511
Receivable for interest 1,229,774
Expense reimbursement due from
Investment Advisor 4,265
Deferred Trustees' compensation plan 4,793
------------
Total Assets 99,591,748
LIABILITIES:
Payable for:
Preferred shares remarketing commissions 1,282
Futures variation margin on open and
closed contracts 3,487
Distributions-- common shares 331,723
Distributions-- preferred shares 8,224
Investment advisory fee 28,050
Pricing and bookkeeping fees 10,061
Trustees' fees 158
Custody fee 730
Audit fee 26,860
Transfer agent fee 2,548
Deferred Trustees' fees 4,793
Other liabilities 9,811
------------
Total Liabilities 427,727
AUCTION PREFERRED SHARES (1,492 shares issued
and outstanding at $25,000 per share) 37,300,000
------------
COMPOSITION OF NET ASSETS
APPLICABLE TO COMMON SHARES:
Paid-in capital -- common shares $ 60,281,129
Undistributed net investment income 59,748
Accumulated net realized loss (5,442,192)
Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation on:
Investments 6,989,952
Futures contracts (24,616)
------------
Net assets at value applicable to 4,252,855
common shares of beneficial interest
outstanding $ 61,864,021
============
Net asset value per common share $ 14.55
============
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended November 30, 2004
INVESTMENT INCOME:
Interest $ 5,219,960
Dividends 424
------------
Total Investment Income 5,220,384
------------
EXPENSES:
Investment advisory fee 648,251
Transfer agent fee 31,834
Pricing and bookkeeping fees 62,727
Trustees' fees 8,586
Preferred shares remarketing commissions 93,612
Custody fee 9,463
Other expenses 71,008
------------
Total Expenses 925,481
Fees and expenses waived or reimbursed
by Investment Advisor (376,490)
Custody earnings credit (552)
------------
Net Expenses 548,439
------------
Net Investment Income 4,671,945
------------
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
ON INVESTMENTS AND FUTURES CONTRACTS:
Net realized gain (loss) on:
Investments 2,236,165
Futures contracts (475,082)
------------
realized gain 1,761,083
Net change in unrealized
appreciation/depreciation on:
Investments (3,009,208)
Futures contracts (43,270)
------------
Net change in unrealized
appreciation/depreciation (3,052,478)
------------
Net Loss (1,291,395)
------------
Net Increase in Net Assets from Operations 3,380,550
------------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
PREFERRED SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (373,702)
------------
Net Increase in Net Assets from Operations
Applicable to Common Shares $ 3,006,848
------------
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
9
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
YEAR ENDED
NOVEMBER 30,
----------------------------
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS: 2004 2003
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income $ 4,671,945 $ 4,852,901
Net realized gain (loss) on
investments, futures contracts
and written options 1,761,083 (2,927,156)
Net change in unrealized
appreciation/depreciation
on investments and
futures contracts (3,052,478) 2,578,776
------------ ------------
Net Increase from Operations 3,380,550 4,504,521
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
PREFERRED SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (373,702) (354,708)
------------ ------------
Net Increase in Net Assets
from Operations Applicable
to Common Shares 3,006,848 4,149,813
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
COMMON SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (4,341,908) (4,448,141)
------------ ------------
SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
Distributions reinvested --
common shares 78,729 167,020
------------ ------------
Total Decrease in Net Assets
Applicable to Common Shares (1,256,331) (131,308)
NET ASSETS APPLICABLE TO
COMMON SHARES:
Beginning of period 63,120,352 63,251,660
------------ ------------
End of period (including
undistributed net investment
income of $59,748 and
$132,113, respectively) $ 61,864,021 $ 63,120,352
============ ============
YEAR ENDED
NOVEMBER 30,
-------------------------------
NUMBER OF FUND SHARES: 2004 2003
Common Shares:
Issued for distributions reinvested 5,375 11,181
Outstanding at:
Beginning of period 4,247,480 4,236,299
------------ ------------
End of period 4,252,855 4,247,480
------------ ------------
Preferred Shares:
Outstanding at end of period 1,492 1,492
------------ ------------
See Accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
10
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
November 30, 2004
NOTE 1. ORGANIZATION
Colonial Insured Municipal Fund (the "Fund") is a Massachusetts business trust
registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act"), as amended, as
a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company.
INVESTMENT GOAL
The Fund seeks to provide current income generally exempt from ordinary federal
income tax.
FUND SHARES
The Fund may issue an unlimited number of common shares. On December 20, 1999,
the Fund issued 1,492 Auction Preferred Shares ("APS").
NOTE 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires management
to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of
the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during
the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The
following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed
by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements.
SECURITY VALUATION
Debt securities generally are valued by pricing services approved by the Fund's
Board of Trustees, based upon market transactions for normal, institutional-size
trading units of similar securities. The services may use various pricing
techniques which take into account appropriate factors such as yield, quality,
coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics and other data, as
well as broker quotes. Debt securities for which quotations are readily
available are valued at an over-the-counter or exchange bid quotation. Certain
debt securities, which tend to be more thinly traded and of lesser quality, are
priced based on fundamental analysis of the financial condition of the issuer
and the estimated value of any collateral. Valuations developed through pricing
techniques may vary from the actual amounts realized upon sale of the
securities, and the potential variation may be greater for those securities
valued using fundamental analysis.
Short-term debt obligations maturing within
60 days are valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value.
Investments in other investment companies are valued at net asset value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement price established each day by the
board of trade or exchange on which they are traded.
Investments for which market quotations are not readily available, or quotations
which management believes are not appropriate, are valued at fair value as
determined in good faith under consistently applied procedures established by
and under the general supervision of the Board of Trustees.
SECURITY TRANSACTIONS
Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Cost is determined
and gains (losses) are based upon the specific identification method for both
financial statement and federal income tax purposes.
FUTURES CONTRACTS
The Fund may invest in municipal and U.S. Treasury futures contracts. The Fund
will invest in these instruments to hedge against the effects of changes in the
value of portfolio securities due to anticipated changes in interest rates and/
or market conditions, for duration management, or when the transactions are
economically appropriate to the reduction of risk inherent in the management of
the Fund and not for trading purposes. The use of futures contracts involves
certain risks, which include: (1) imperfect correlation between the price
movement of the instruments and the underlying securities, (2) inability to
close out positions due to differing trading hours, or the temporary absence of
a liquid market, for either the instrument or the underlying securities, or (3)
an inaccurate prediction by Columbia Management Advisors, Inc. of the future
direction of interest rates. Any of these risks may involve amounts exceeding
the variation margin recorded in the Fund's Statement of Assets and Liabilities
at any given time.
Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund deposits cash or securities with
the broker in an amount sufficient to meet the initial margin requirement.
Subsequent payments are made or received by the Fund equal to the daily change
in the contract value and are recorded as variation margin receivable or payable
and offset in unrealized gains or losses. The Fund also identifies portfolio
securities as segregated with the custodian in a separate account in an amount
equal to the futures contract. The Fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when
the contract is closed or expires.
11
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
INCOME RECOGNITION
Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis. Original issue discount is
accreted to interest income over the life of the security with a corresponding
increase in the cost basis. Premium and discount are amortized and accreted,
respectively, on all debt securities. Dividend income is recorded on the
ex-date.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX STATUS
The Fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under
Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and will distribute
substantially all of its tax-exempt or taxable income, if any, for its tax year,
and as such will not be subject to federal income taxes. In addition, the Fund
intends to distribute in each calendar year substantially all of its net
investment income, capital gains and certain other amounts, if any, such that
the Fund should not be subject to federal excise tax. Therefore, no federal
income or excise tax provision is recorded.
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS
Distributions to common shareholders are recorded on the ex-date. Distributions
to Auction Preferred shareholders are recorded daily and payable at the end of
each dividend period. Each dividend payment period for the APS is generally
seven days. The applicable dividend rate for the APS on November 30, 2004, was
1.61%. For the year ended November 30, 2004, the Fund declared dividends to
Auction Preferred shareholders amounting to $373,702, representing an average
dividend rate of 1.00% per APS.
NOTE 3. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
The timing and character of income and capital gain distributions are determined
in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.
Reclassifications are made to the Fund's capital accounts for permanent tax
differences to reflect income and gains available for distribution (or available
capital loss carryforwards) under income tax regulations.
For the year ended November 30, 2004, permanent book and tax basis differences
resulting primarily from differing treatments for discount accretion/premium
amortization on debt securities and market discount reclassifications were
identified and reclassified among the components of the Fund's net assets as
follows:
UNDISTRIBUTED ACCUMULATED
NET INVESTMENT NET REALIZED PAID-IN
INCOME LOSS CAPITAL
------------- ------------- -------------
$(28,700) $28,700 $--
Net investment income and net realized gains (losses), as disclosed on the
Statement of Operations, and net assets were not affected by this
reclassification.
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended November 30, 2004
and November 30, 2003 was as follows:
NOVEMBER 30, NOVEMBER 30,
2004 2003
---------- -----------
Distributions paid from:
Tax-Exempt Income $4,691,126 $4,802,018
Ordinary Income 24,484 831
Long-Term Capital Gains -- --
As of November 30, 2004, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis
were as follows:
UNDISTRIBUTED UNDISTRIBUTED UNDISTRIBUTED NET
TAX-EXEMPT ORDINARY LONG-TERM UNREALIZED
INCOME INCOME CAPITAL GAINS APPRECIATION*
---------- ---------- ----------- ------------
$334,691 $-- $-- $7,060,069
* The differences between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized appreciation
are primarily due to discount accretion/premium amortization on debt
securities.
Unrealized appreciation and depreciation at November 30, 2004, based on cost of
investments for federal income tax purposes, was:
Unrealized appreciation $7,782,554
Unrealized depreciation (722,485)
----------
Net unrealized appreciation $7,060,069
==========
The following capital loss carryforwards may be available to reduce taxable
income arising from future net realized gains on investments, if any, to the
extent permitted by the Internal Revenue Code:
YEAR OF CAPITAL LOSS
EXPIRATION CARRYFORWARD
----------------- -----------------------
2010 $611,489
2011 2,232,409
----------
$2,843,898
==========
Capital loss carryforwards of $1,525,713 were utilized during the year ended
November 30, 2004 for the Fund.
12
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
NOTE 4. FEES AND COMPENSATION PAID TO AFFILIATES
Columbia Management Advisors, Inc. ("Columbia") is the investment advisor to the
Fund. Prior to April 1, 2004, Columbia was an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary
of FleetBoston Financial Corporation ("FleetBoston"). Effective April 1, 2004,
FleetBoston, including the Fund's investment advisor, was acquired by Bank of
America Corporation ("BOA"). The acquisition did not change the way the Fund is
managed, the investment personnel assigned to manage the Fund or the fees paid
by the Fund.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE
Columbia provides administrative and other services to the Fund in addition to
investment advisory services. Columbia receives a monthly investment advisory
fee at the annual rate of 0.65% of the Fund's average weekly net assets,
including assets applicable to the APS. Columbia contractually agreed to waive a
portion of its investment advisory fee through November 30, 2004, so that such
fees did not exceed an annual rate equal to 0.35%. Effective December 1, 2004,
Columbia has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its investment advisory
fee through November 30, 2005, so that such fees will not exceed an annual rate
equal to 0.40% of the Fund's average weekly net assets, including assets
applicable to the APS.
PRICING AND BOOKKEEPING FEES
Columbia is responsible for providing pricing and bookkeeping services to the
Fund under a pricing and bookkeeping agreement. Under a separate agreement (the
"Outsourcing Agreement"), Columbia has delegated those functions to State Street
Corporation ("State Street"). As a result, Columbia pays the total fees received
to State Street under the Outsourcing Agreement.
Under its pricing and bookkeeping agreement with the Fund, Columbia receives
from the Fund an annual flat fee of $10,000 paid monthly, and in any month that
the Fund's average weekly net assets, including assets applicable to APS, exceed
$50 million, an additional monthly fee. The additional fee rate is calculated by
taking into account the fees payable to State Street under the Outsourcing
Agreement. This rate is applied to the average weekly net assets, including
assets applicable to APS, of the Fund for that month. The Fund also pays
additional fees for pricing services based on the number of securities held by
the Fund. For the year ended November 30, 2004, the Fund's effective pricing and
bookkeeping fee rate, inclusive of out-of-pocket expenses, was 0.063% of the
Fund's average weekly net assets, including assets applicable to APS.
FEE WAIVERS
Columbia has voluntarily agreed to reimburse the Fund for certain expenses so
that total expenses (exclusive of investment advisory fees, brokerage
commissions, interest, taxes and extraordinary expenses, if any) would not
exceed 0.20% annually of the Fund's average weekly net assets, including assets
applicable to APS. Columbia, at its discretion, may revise or discontinue this
arrangement any time.
CUSTODY CREDITS
The Fund has an agreement with its custodian bank under which custody fees may
be reduced by balance credits. These credits are recorded as a reduction of
total expenses on the Statement of Operations. The Fund could have invested a
portion of the assets utilized in connection with the expense offset arrangement
in an income producing asset if it had not entered into such an agreement.
FEES PAID TO OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
With the exception of one officer, all officers of the Fund are employees of
Columbia or its affiliates and receive no compensation from the Fund. Effective
August 23, 2004, the Board of Trustees appointed a Chief Compliance Officer to
the Fund in accordance with federal securities regulations. The Fund, along with
other affiliated funds, will pay its pro-rata share of the expenses associated
with the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer. The Fund's fee will not exceed
$15,000 per year.
The Fund's Trustees may participate in a deferred compensation plan which may be
terminated at any time. Obligations of the plan will be paid solely out of the
Fund's assets.
OTHER
Columbia provides certain services to the Fund related to Sarbanes-Oxley
compliance. For the year ended November 30, 2004, the Fund paid $1,382 to
Columbia for such services. This amount is included in "Other expenses" on the
Statement of Operations.
NOTE 5. PORTFOLIO INFORMATION
For the year ended November 30, 2004, the cost of purchases and proceeds from
sales of securities, excluding short-term obligations, were $20,611,896 and
$20,943,443, respectively.
13
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
NOTE 6. PREFERRED SHARES
The Fund currently has outstanding 1,492 APS. The APS are redeemable at the
option of the Fund on any dividend payment date at the redemption price of
$25,000 per share, plus an amount equal to any dividends accumulated on a daily
basis unpaid through the redemption date (whether or not such dividends have
been declared).
Under the Act, the Fund is required to maintain asset coverage of at least 200%
with respect to the APS as of the last business day of each month in which any
APS are outstanding. Additionally, the Fund is required to meet more stringent
asset coverage requirements in accordance with the guidelines prescribed by the
APS' rating agencies. Should these requirements not be met, or should dividends
accrued on the APS not be paid, the Fund may be restricted in its ability to
declare dividends to common shareholders or may be required to redeem certain
APS. At November 30, 2004, there were no such restrictions on the Fund.
NOTE 7. DISCLOSURE OF SIGNIFICANT RISKS AND CONTINGENCIES
CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
The Fund holds investments that are insured by private insurers who guarantee
the payment of principal and interest in the event of default or that are
supported by a letter of credit. Each of the Fund's insurers is rated AAA by
Moody's Investors Service, Inc., except for Radian Asset Assurance, Inc. which
is rated AA by Standard &Poor's. At November 30, 2004, investments supported by
private insurers that represent greater than 5% of the total investments of the
Fund were as follows:
% OF TOTAL
INSURER INVESTMENT
- -------------------------------------------------------
MBIA Insurance Corp. 28.1
Ambac Assurance Corp. 24.7
Financial Guaranty Insurance Co. 16.3
Financial Security Assurance, Inc. 11.7
GEOGRAPHIC CONCENTRATION
The Fund has greater than 5% of its total investments at November 30, 2004
invested in debt obligations issued by the states of Alabama, California,
Illinois, New York, Tennessee and Texas and their respective political
subdivisions, agencies and public authorities. The Fund is more susceptible to
economic and political factors adversely affecting issuers of these states
municipal securities than are municipal bond funds that are not concentrated to
the same extent in these issuers.
HIGH-YIELD SECURITIES
Investing in high-yield securities may involve greater credit risk and
considerations not typically associated with investing in U.S. government bonds
and other higher quality fixed income securities. These securities are
non-investment grade securities, often referred to as "junk bonds." Economic
downturns and industry events may disrupt the high yield market and impair the
ability of issuers to repay principal and interest. Also, an increase in
interest rates would likely have an adverse impact on the value of such
obligations. Moreover, high-yield securities may be less liquid to the extent
there is no established secondary market.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Columbia, Columbia Funds Distributor, Inc. ("CFDI"), and certain of their
affiliates (collectively, "the Columbia Group") have received information
requests and subpoenas from various regulatory and law enforcement authorities
in connection with their investigations of late trading and market timing in
mutual funds as well as other industry wide issues. The Columbia Group has not
uncovered any instances where Columbia or CFDI were knowingly involved in late
trading of mutual fund shares.
On February 24, 2004, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filed a
civil complaint in the United States District Court for the District of
Massachusetts against Columbia and CFDI, alleging that they had violated certain
provisions of the federal securities laws in connection with trading activity in
mutual fund shares. Also on February 24, 2004, the New York Attorney General
("NYAG") filed a civil complaint in New York Supreme Court, County of New York
against Columbia and CFDI alleging that Columbia and CFDI had violated certain
New York anti-fraud statutes. If either Columbia or CFDI is unsuccessful in its
defense of these proceedings, it could be barred from serving as an investment
advisor or distributor for any investment company registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (a "registered investment company").
Such results could prevent Columbia, CFDI or any company that is an affiliated
person of Columbia and CFDI from serving as an investment advisor or distributor
for any registered investment company, including your fund. Your fund has been
informed by Columbia and CFDI that, if these results occur, they will seek
exemptive relief from the SEC to permit them to continue to serve as your fund's
investment advisor and distributor. There is no assurance that such exemptive
relief will be granted. On March 15, 2004, Columbia and CFDI entered into
agreements in principle with the SEC Division of Enforcement and NYAG in
settlement
14
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
November 30, 2004
of the charges. Under the agreements, Columbia and CFDI agreed, among other
things, to the following conditions: payment of $70 million in disgorgement;
payment of $70 million in civil penalties; an order requiring Columbia and CFDI
to cease and desist violations of the antifraud provisions and other provisions
of the federal securities laws; governance changes designed to maintain the
independence of the mutual fund boards of trustees and ensure compliance with
securities laws and their fiduciary duties; and retention of an independent
consultant to review Columbia's and CFDI's compliance policies and procedures.
The agreement requires the final approval of the SEC. In a separate agreement
with the NYAG, the Columbia Group and its affiliate Banc of America Capital
Management, LLC have agreed to collectively reduce mutual fund fees by $160
million over a five-year period.
In connection with the events described in detail above, various parties have
filed suit against certain funds, their Boards and/or FleetBoston (and
affiliated entities). More than 300 cases (including those filed against
entities unaffiliated with the funds, their Boards and/or FleetBoston and its
affiliated entities) have been consolidated in a multi-district proceeding and
transferred to the Federal District Court in Maryland. Recently, certain
Columbia funds and affiliated entities have been named as defendants in several
derivative actions under various sections of the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, alleging, among other things, that the fees and expenses paid by
those funds are excessive. The funds and the other defendants to these actions,
including Columbia and various of its affiliates, certain other mutual funds
advised by Columbia and its affiliates, and various directors of such funds,
have denied these allegations and are contesting the plaintiffs' claims. These
suits and certain regulatory investigations are ongoing, however, based on
currently available information, Columbia believes that these lawsuits are
without merit, that the likelihood they will have a material adverse impact on
any fund is remote, and that the lawsuits are not likely to materially affect
its ability to provide investment management services to its clients, including
the funds.
15
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period is as follows
(common shares unless otherwise noted):
PERIOD
ENDED
YEAR ENDED NOVEMBER 30, NOVEMBER 30,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 (a)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 14.86 $ 14.93 $ 15.20 $ 14.68 $ 14.30 $ 14.33
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 1.10(b) 1.14(b) 1.21(b)(c) 1.24(b) 1.24(d) 0.06
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments,
futures contracts and written options (0.30) (0.08) (0.25)(c) 0.51 0.55 (0.06)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total from Investment Operations 0.80 1.06 0.96 1.75 1.79 --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO PREFERRED SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.09) (0.08) (0.12) (0.26) (0.35) --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total from Investment Operations Applicable
to Common Shareholders 0.71 0.98 0.84 1.49 1.44 --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (1.02) (1.05) (1.11) (0.97) (0.93) --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
LESS SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
Offering costs -- common shares -- -- -- -- --(e) (0.03)
Commission and offering costs -- preferred shares -- -- -- -- (0.13) --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total Share Transactions -- -- -- -- (0.13) (0.03)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $ 14.55 $ 14.86 $ 14.93 $ 15.20 $ 14.68 $ 14.30
=========== =========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
Market price per share -- common shares $ 13.92 $ 15.30 $ 15.09 $ 16.50 $ 12.63 $ 15.00
=========== =========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
Total return -- based on market value--
common shares (f)(g) (2.45)% 8.77% (1.72)% 39.25% (9.77)% 0.00%(h)
=========== =========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
Expenses (i)(j) 0.88%(k) 0.88%(k) 0.87%(k) 0.87%(k) 0.86%(k) 0.55%(l)
Net investment income before preferred
stock dividends (i)(j) 7.48% 7.68% 8.04%(c) 8.11% 8.78% 4.38%(l)
Net investment income after preferred
stock dividends (i)(j) 6.88% 7.12% 7.22%(c) 6.42% 6.34% 4.38%(l)
Voluntary waiver/reimbursement (j) 0.12% 0.18% 0.13% 0.17% 0.48% 0.61%(l)
Portfolio turnover rate 21% 4% 13% 8% 33% 7%(h)
Net assets, end of period
(000's) -- common shares $ 61,864 $ 63,120 $ 63,252 $ 64,290 $ 62,051 $ 54,422
(a) The Fund commenced investment operations on October 29, 1999. Per share
data and total return reflect activity from that date.
(b) Per share data was calculated using average shares outstanding during the
period.
(c) Effective December 1, 2001, the Fund adopted the provision of the AICPA
Audit and Accounting Guide for Investment Companies and began accreting
market discount on all debt securities. The effect of this change for the
year ended November 30, 2002 was to increase the ratio of net investment
income to average net assets from 8.02% to 8.04% and increase the ratio of
net investment income (adjusted for dividend payments to preferred
shareholders) from 7.20% to 7.22%. The impact to the net investment income
and net realized and unrealized loss per share was less than $0.01. Per
share data and ratios for periods prior to November 30, 2002 have not been
restated to reflect this change in presentation.
(d) The per share net investment income amount does not reflect the period's
reclassification of differences between book and tax basis net investment
income.
(e) Rounds to less than $0.01 per share.
(f) Total return at market value assuming all distributions reinvested at
prices calculated in accordance with the Dividend Reinvestment Plan.
(g) Had the Investment Advisor not waived or reimbursed a portion of expenses,
total return would have been reduced.
(h) Not annualized.
(i) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements, if applicable, had an impact of less than 0.01%.
(j) Ratios reflect average net assets available to common shares only.
(k) Ratios calculated using average net assets including auction preferred
shares of the Fund equals 0.55%, 0.55%, 0.55%, 0.55% and 0.54% for the the
years ended November 30, 2004, November 30, 2003, November 30, 2002,
November 30, 2001 and November 30, 2000, respectively.
(l) Annualized.
16
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED)
ASSET COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS
INVOLUNTARY
ASSET LIQUIDATING AVERAGE
TOTAL AMOUNT COVERAGE PREFERENCE MARKET VALUE
OUTSTANDING PER SHARE* PER SHARE PER SHARE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11/30/04 $37,300,000 $66,464 $25,006 $25,000
11/30/03 37,300,000 67,306 25,002 25,000
11/30/02 37,300,000 67,396 25,012 25,000
11/30/01 37,300,000 68,090 25,001 25,000
11/30/00 ** 37,300,000 66,589 25,020 25,000
* Calculated by subtracting the Fund's total liabilities from the Fund's total
assets and dividing the amount by the number of APS outstanding.
** On December 20, 1999, the Fund began offering Auction Preferred Shares.
17
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
TO THE TRUSTEES AND THE SHAREHOLDERS OF COLONIAL INSURED MUNICIPAL FUND
In our opinion, the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including
the investment portfolio, and the related statements of operations and of
changes in net assets and the financial highlights present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of Colonial Insured Municipal Fund
(the "Fund") at November 30, 2004, and the results of its operations, the
changes in its net assets and its financial highlights for the periods
indicated, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States of America. These financial statements and financial highlights
(hereafter referred to as "financial statements") are the responsibility of the
Fund's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these
financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States), which require that we plan and
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits, which included confirmation of securities at
November 30, 2004 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers, provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
January 19, 2005
18
UNAUDITED INFORMATION
FEDERAL INCOME TAX INFORMATION
99.48% of the distributions from net investment income will be treated as exempt
income for federal income tax purposes.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of December 31, 2004, 26.04% of distributions from net investment income is
subject to the alternative minimum tax.
19
DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN
COLONIAL INSURED MUNICIPAL FUND
Pursuant to the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the "Plan"), all Common
Shareholders whose shares are registered in their own names will have all
distributions reinvested automatically in additional Common Shares of the Fund
by EquiServe (the "Plan Agent"), as agent under the Plan, unless a Common
Shareholder elects to receive cash. An election to receive cash may be revoked
or reinstated at the option of the Common Shareholder. Shareholders whose shares
are held in the name of a broker or nominee will have distributions reinvested
automatically by the broker or nominee in additional shares under the Plan,
unless the service is not provided by the broker or nominee, or unless the
shareholder elects to receive distributions in cash. If the service is not
available, such distributions will be paid in cash. Shareholders whose shares
are held in the name of a broker or nominee should contact the broker or nominee
for details. All distributions to investors who elect not to participate (or
whose broker or nominee elects not to participate) in the Plan will be paid by
check mailed directly to the record holder by the Plan Agent, as dividend paying
agent.
The Plan Agent will furnish each person who buys shares in the offering with
written information relating to the Plan. Included in such information will be
procedures for electing to receive distributions in cash (or, in the case of
shares held in the name of a broker or nominee who does not participate in the
Plan, procedures for having such shares registered in the name of the
shareholder so that such shareholder may participate in the Plan).
If the Trustees of the Fund declare a dividend (including a capital gain
dividend) payable either in shares or in cash, as holders of shares may have
elected, then nonparticipants in the Plan will receive cash and participants in
the Plan will receive the equivalent in shares valued as set forth below.
Whenever a market price is equal to or exceeds net asset value at the time
shares are valued for the purpose of determining the number of shares equivalent
to the distribution, participants will be issued shares at the net asset value
most recently determined as provided under "Net Asset Value" in the Fund's
prospectus and its Statement of Additional Information, but in no event less
than 95% of the market price. If the net asset value of the shares at such time
exceeds the market price of shares at such time, or if the Fund should declare a
dividend (including a capital gain dividend) payable only in cash, the Plan
Agent will, as agent for the participants, use the cash that the shareholders
would have received as a dividend to buy shares in the open market, the American
Stock Exchange or elsewhere, for the participants' accounts. If, before the Plan
Agent has completed its purchases, the market price exceeds the net asset value
of the shares, the average per share purchase price paid by the Plan Agent may
exceed the net asset value of the shares, resulting in the acquisition of fewer
shares than if the dividend (including a capital gain dividend) had been paid in
shares issued by the Fund. The Plan Agent will apply all cash received as a
dividend (including a capital gain dividend) to purchase shares on the open
market as soon as practicable after the payment date of such dividend, but in no
event later than 30 days after such date, except where necessary to comply with
applicable provisions of the federal securities laws.
There is no charge to participants for reinvesting dividends (including capital
gain dividends). The Plan Agent's fees for handling the reinvestment of
dividends (including capital gain dividends) will be paid by the Fund. There
will be no brokerage charges with respect to shares issued directly by the Fund
as a result of dividends or capital gains distributions payable either in stock
or in cash. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage
commissions incurred with respect to the Plan Agent's open market purchases in
connection with the reinvestment of dividends (including capital gain
dividends).
The automatic reinvestment of dividends (including capital gain dividends) will
not relieve participants of any income tax which may be payable on such
dividends. The amount of the dividend for tax purposes may vary depending on
whether the Fund issues new Common Shares or purchases them on the open market.
The Plan may be amended or terminated on 30 days' written notice to Plan
participants. All correspondence concerning the Plan should be directed to
EquiServe Trust Company, N.A. by mail at P.O. Box 43010, Providence, RI
02940-3010, or by phone at 1-800-730-6001.
20
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
The Trustees/Directors serve terms of indefinite duration. The names, addresses
and ages of the Trustees/Directors and officers of the Funds in the Columbia
Funds Complex, the year each was first elected or appointed to office, their
principal business occupations during at least the last five years, the number
of portfolios overseen by each Trustee/Director and other directorships they
hold are shown below. Each officer listed below serves as an officer of each
Fund in the Columbia Funds Complex.
NAME, ADDRESS AND AGE,
POSITION WITH FUNDS,
YEAR FIRST ELECTED OR PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST FIVE YEARS, NUMBER OF PORTFOLIOS IN COLUMBIA FUNDS
APPOINTED TO OFFICE(1) COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE/DIRECTOR, OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISINTERESTED TRUSTEES
DOUGLAS A. HACKER (age 49) Executive Vice President-Strategy of United Airlines (airline) since December 2002 (formerly
P.O. Box 66100 President of UAL Loyalty Services (airline) from September 2001 to December 2002; Executive Vice
Chicago, IL 60666 President and Chief Financial Officer of United Airlines from March 1999 to September 2001; Senior
Trustee (since 1996) Vice President-Finance from March 1993 to July 1999). Oversees 118, None
JANET LANGFORD KELLY (age 47) Adjunct Professor of Law, Northwestern University, since September 2004; Private Investor since
9534 W. Gull Lake Drive March 2004 (formerly Chief Administrative Officer and Senior Vice President, Kmart Holding
Richland, MI 49083-8530 Corporation (consumer goods), from September 2003 to March 2004; Executive Vice President-Corporate
Trustee (since 1996) Development and Administration, General Counsel and Secretary, Kellogg Company (food manufacturer),
from September 1999 to August 2003; Senior Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Sara Lee
Corporation (branded, packaged, consumer-products manufacturer) from January 1995 to September
1999). 118, None
RICHARD W. LOWRY (age 68) Private Investor since August 1987 (formerly Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, U. S. Plywood
10701 Charleston Drive Corporation (building products manufacturer)). Oversees 120(3), None
Vero Beach, FL 32963
Trustee (since 1995)
CHARLES R. NELSON (age 62) Professor of Economics, University of Washington, since January 1976; Ford and Louisa Van Voorhis
Department of Economics Professor of Political Economy, University of Washington, since September 1993 (formerly Director,
University of Washington Institute for Economic Research, University of Washington from September 2001 to June 2003) Adjunct
Seattle, WA 98195 Professor of Statistics, University of Washington, since September 1980; Associate Editor, Journal
Trustee of Money Credit and Banking, since September 1993; consultant on econometric and statistical
(since 1981) matters. Oversees 118, None
JOHN J. NEUHAUSER (age 61) Academic Vice President and Dean of Faculties since August 1999, Boston College (formerly Dean,
84 College Road Boston College School of Management from September 1977 to September 1999). Oversees 121(3), (4),
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467-3838 Saucony, Inc. (athletic footwear)
Trustee (since 1985)
PATRICK J. SIMPSON (age 60) Partner, Perkins Coie LLP (law firm). Oversees 118, None
1120 N.W. Couch Street
Tenth Floor
Portland, OR 97209-4128
Trustee (since 2000)
21
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS (CONTINUED)
NAME, ADDRESS AND AGE,
POSITION WITH FUNDS,
YEAR FIRST ELECTED OR PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST FIVE YEARS, NUMBER OF PORTFOLIOS IN COLUMBIA FUNDS
APPOINTED TO OFFICE(1) COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE/DIRECTOR, OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISINTERESTED TRUSTEES (continued)
THOMAS E. STITZEL (age 68) Business Consultant since 1999 (formerly Professor of Finance from 1975 to 1999, College of
2208 Tawny Woods Place Business, Boise State University); Chartered Financial Analyst. Oversees 118, None.
Boise, ID 83706
Trustee (since 1998)
THOMAS C. THEOBALD (age 67) Partner and Senior Advisor, Chicago Growth Partners (private equity investing) since September 2004
303 W. Madison (formerly Managing Director, William Blair Capital Partners (private equity investing) from
Suite 2500 September 1994 to September 2004). Oversees 118, Anixter International (network support equipment
Chicago, IL 60606 distributor); Ventas, Inc. (real estate investment trust); Jones Lang LaSalle (real estate
Trustee and Chairman management services) and Ambac Financial Group (financial guaranty insurance)
of the Board(5)
(since 1996)
ANNE-LEE VERVILLE (age 59) Retired since 1997 (formerly General Manager, Global Education Industry, IBM Corporation (computer
359 Stickney Hill Road and technology) from 1994 to 1997). Oversees 119(4), Chairman of the Board of Directors, Enesco
Hopkinton, NH 03229 Group, Inc. (designer, importer and distributor of giftware and collectibles)
Trustee (since 1998)
RICHARD L. WOOLWORTH (age 63) Retired since December 2003 (formerly Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Regence Group
100 S.W. Market Street #1500 (regional health insurer); Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon;
Portland, OR 97207 Certified Public Accountant, Arthur Young & Company). Oversees 118, Northwest Natural Gas Co.
Trustee (since 1991) (natural gas service provider)
INTERESTED TRUSTEE
WILLIAM E. MAYER(2) (age 64) Partner, Park Avenue Equity Partners (private equity) since February 1999 (formerly Partner,
399 Park Avenue Development Capital LLC from November 1996 to February 1999). Oversees 120(3), Lee Enterprises
Suite 3204 (print media), WR Hambrecht + Co. (financial service provider); First Health (healthcare); Reader's
New York, NY 10022 Digest (publishing); OPENFIELD Solutions (retail industry technology provider)
Trustee (since 1994)
(1) In December 2000, the boards of each of the former Liberty Funds and former
Stein Roe Funds were combined into one board of trustees responsible for
the oversight of both fund groups (collectively, the "Liberty Board"). In
October 2003, the trustees on the Liberty Board were elected to the boards
of the Columbia Funds (the "Columbia Board") and of the CMG Fund Trust (the
"CMG Funds Board"); simultaneous with that election, Patrick J. Simpson and
Richard L. Woolworth, who had been directors on the Columbia Board and
trustees on the CMG Funds Board, were appointed to serve as trustees of the
Liberty Board. The date shown is the earliest date on which a
trustee/director was elected or appointed to the board of a Fund in the
Columbia Funds Complex.
(2) Mr. Mayer is an "interested person" (as defined in the Investment Company
Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) by reason of his affiliation with WR Hambrecht +
Co.
(3) Messrs. Lowry, Neuhauser and Mayer also serve as directors/trustees of the
Liberty All-Star Funds, currently consisting of 2 funds, which are advised
by an affiliate of the Advisor.
(4) Mr. Neuhauser and Ms. Verville also serve as disinterested directors of
Columbia Management Multi-Strategy Hedge Fund, LLC, which is advised by the
Advisor.
(5) Mr. Theobald was appointed as Chairman of the Board effective December 10,
2003.
22
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS (CONTINUED)
NAME, ADDRESS AND AGE,
POSITION WITH COLUMBIA FUNDS,
YEAR FIRST ELECTED OR
APPOINTED TO OFFICE PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST FIVE YEARS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OFFICERS
CHRISTOPHER L. WILSON (age 47) Head of Mutual Funds for the Advisor since August 2004; President of the Columbia Funds since
One Financial Center October 2004 (formerly President and Chief Executive Officer, CDC IXIS Asset Management Services,
Boston, MA 02111 Inc. from September 1998 to August 2004).
President (since 2004)
J. KEVIN CONNAUGHTON (age 40) Treasurer of the Columbia Funds and of the Liberty All-Star Funds since December 2000; Vice
One Financial Center President of the Advisor since April 2003 (formerly President of the Columbia Funds from February
Boston, MA 02111 2004 to October 2004; Chief Accounting Officer and Controller of the Liberty Funds and of the
Treasurer (since 2000) Liberty All-Star Funds from February 1998 to October 2000); Treasurer of the Galaxy Funds since
September 2002; (formerly Treasurer from December 2002 to December 2004 and President from February
2004 to December 2004 of the Columbia Management Multi-Strategy Hedge Fund, LLC; Vice President of
Colonial Management Associates, Inc. from February 1998 to October 2000).
MARY JOAN HOENE (age 54) Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Columbia Funds and of the Liberty All-Star
40 West 57th Street Funds since August 2004 (formerly Partner, Carter, Ledyard & Milburn LLP from January 2001 to August
New York, NY 10019 2004; Counsel, Carter, Ledyard & Milburn LLP from November 1999 to December 2000; Vice President and
Senior Vice President and Counsel, Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United States from April
Chief Compliance Officer 1998 to November 1999).
(since 2004)
MICHAEL G. CLARKE (age 34) Chief Accounting Officer of the Columbia Funds and of the Liberty All-Star Funds since October 2004
One Financial Center (formerly Controller of the Columbia Funds and of the Liberty All-Star Funds from May 2004 to
Boston, MA 02111 October 2004; Assistant Treasurer from June, 2002 to May 2004; Vice President, Product Strategy &
Chief Accounting Officer Development of the Liberty Funds Group from February 2001 to June 2002; Assistant Treasurer of the
(since 2004) Liberty Funds and of the Liberty All-Star Funds from August 1999 to February 2001; Audit Manager,
Deloitte & Touche LLP from May 1997 to August 1999).
JEFFREY R. COLEMAN (age 35) Controller of the Columbia Funds and of the Liberty All-Star Funds since October 2004 (formerly Vice
One Financial Center President of CDC IXIS Asset Management Services, Inc. and Deputy Treasurer of the CDC Nvest Funds
Boston, MA 02111 and Loomis Sayles Funds from February 2003 to September 2004; Assistant Vice President of CDC IXIS
Controller (since 2004) Asset Management Services, Inc. and Assistant Treasurer of the CDC Nvest Funds from August 2000 to
February 2003; Tax Manager of PFPC Inc. from November 1996 to August 2000).
R. SCOTT HENDERSON (age 45) Secretary of the Columbia Funds since December 2004 (formerly Of Counsel, Bingham McCutchen from
One Financial Center April 2001 to September 2004; Executive Director and General Counsel, Massachusetts Pension Reserves
Boston, MA 02111 Investment Management Board from September 1997 to March 2001).
Secretary (since 2004)
23
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TRANSFER AGENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS REPORT
The Transfer Agent for Colonial Insured Municipal Fund is:
EquiServe Trust Company, N.A.
P.O. Box 43010
Providence, RI 02940-3010
The fund mails one shareholder report to each shareholder address. Shareholders
can order additional reports by calling 800-730-6001. In addition,
representatives at that number can provide shareholders information about the
fund.
Financial advisors who want additional information about the fund may speak to a
representative at 800-426-3750.
A description of the fund's proxy voting policies and procedures is available
(i) at www.columbiamanagement.com; (ii) on the Securities and Exchange
Commission's website at www.sec.gov, and (iii) without charge, upon request, by
calling 800-730-6001. Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating
to portfolio securities during the 12-month period ended June 30, 2004 is
available from the SEC's website. Information regarding how the fund voted
proxies relating to portfolio securities is also available at
www.columbiamanagement.com.
The fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the
first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The fund's Form N-Q is
available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at
the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information on the operation
of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
This report has been prepared for shareholders of Colonial Insured Municipal
Fund.
COLONIAL INSURED MUNICIPAL FUND ANNUAL REPORT
ID-02/749T-1104 (01/05) 05/3932
ITEM 2. CODE OF ETHICS.
(a) The registrant has, as of the end of the period covered by this
report, adopted a code of ethics that applies to the registrant's
principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal
accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar
functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the
registrant or a third party.
(b) During the period covered by this report, there were not any
amendments to a provision of the code of ethics adopted in 2(a) above.
(c) During the period covered by this report, there were not any waivers
or implicit waivers to a provision of the code of ethics adopted in
2(a) above.
ITEM 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.
The registrant's Board of Trustees has determined that Douglas A. Hacker, Thomas
E. Stitzel, Anne-Lee Verville and Richard L. Woolworth, each of whom are members
of the registrant's Board of Trustees and Audit Committee, each qualify as an
audit committee financial expert. Mr. Hacker, Mr. Stitzel, Ms. Verville and Mr.
Woolworth are each independent trustees, as defined in paragraph (a)(2) of this
Item's instructions and collectively constitute the entire Audit Committee.
ITEM 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.
(a) Aggregate Audit Fees billed by the principal accountant for professional
services rendered during the fiscal years ended November 30, 2004 and November
30, 2003 are approximately as follows:
2004 2003
$22,060 $23,610
Audit Fees include amounts related to the audit of the registrant's annual
financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in
connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal
years.
(b) Aggregate Audit-Related Fees billed by the principal accountant for
professional services rendered during the fiscal years ended November 30, 2004
and November 30, 2003 are approximately as follows:
2004 2003
$7,100 $7,400
Audit-Related Fees include amounts for assurance and related services by the
principal accountant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit
of the registrant's financial statements and are not reported in Audit Fees
above. In both fiscal years 2004 and 2003, Audit-Related Fees include certain
agreed-upon procedures performed for semi-annual shareholder reports.
(c) Aggregate Tax Fees billed by the principal accountant for professional
services rendered during the fiscal years ended November 30, 2004 and November
30, 2003 are approximately as follows:
2004 2003
$3,410 $3,371
Tax Fees in both fiscal years 2004 and 2003 consist primarily of the review of
annual tax returns and include amounts for professional services by the
principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.
(d) Aggregate All Other Fees billed by the principal accountant for professional
services rendered during the fiscal years ended November 30, 2004 and November
30, 2003 are as follows:
2004 2003
$0 $0
All Other Fees include amounts for products and services provided by the
principal accountant, other than the services reported in paragraphs (a) through
(c) above.
None of the amounts described in paragraphs (a) through (d) above were approved
pursuant to the "de minimis" exception under paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01
of Regulation S-X.
(e)(1) AUDIT COMMITTEE PRE-APPROVAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
I. GENERAL OVERVIEW
The Audit Committee of the registrant has adopted a formal policy (the "Policy")
which sets forth the procedures and the conditions pursuant to which the Audit
Committee will pre-approve (i) all audit and non-audit (including audit related,
tax and all other) services provided by the registrant's independent auditor to
the registrant and individual funds
(collectively "Fund Services"), and (ii) all non-audit services provided by the
registrant's independent auditor to the funds' adviser or a control affiliate of
the adviser, that relate directly to the funds' operations and financial
reporting (collectively "Fund-related Adviser Services"). A "control affiliate"
is an entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the
adviser that provides ongoing services to the funds, and the term "adviser" is
deemed to exclude any unaffiliated sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio
management and is sub-contracted or overseen by another investment adviser. The
adviser and control affiliates are collectively referred to as "Adviser
Entities."
The Audit Committee uses a combination of specific (on a case-by-case basis as
potential services are contemplated) and general (pre-determined list of
permitted services) pre-approvals. Unless a type of service has received general
pre-approval, it will require specific pre-approval by the Audit Committee if it
is to be provided by the independent auditor.
The Policy does not delegate the Audit Committee's responsibilities to
pre-approve services performed by the independent auditor to management.
II. GENERAL PROCEDURES
On an annual basis, the Fund Treasurer and/or Director of Trustee Administration
shall submit to the Audit Committee a schedule of the types of Fund Services and
Fund-related Adviser Services that are subject to general pre-approval.
These schedules will provide a description of each type of service that is
subject to general pre-approval and, where possible, will provide estimated fees
for each instance of providing each service. This general pre-approval and
related fees (where provided) will generally cover a one-year period (for
example, from June 1 through May 31 of the following year). The Audit
Committee will review and approve the types of services and review the projected
fees for the next one-year period and may add to, or subtract from, the list of
general pre-approved services from time to time, based on subsequent
determinations. This approval acknowledges that the Audit Committee is in
agreement with the specific types of services that the independent auditor will
be permitted to perform. The fee amounts will be updated to the extent necessary
at other regularly scheduled meetings of the Audit Committee.
In addition to the fees for each individual service, the Audit Committee has the
authority to implement a fee cap on the aggregate amount of non-audit services
provided to an individual fund.
If, subsequent to general pre-approval, a fund, its investment adviser or a
control affiliate determines that it would like to engage the independent
auditor to perform a service that requires pre-approval and that is not included
in the general pre-approval list, the specific pre-approval procedure shall be
as follows:
o A brief written request shall be prepared by management detailing the
proposed engagement with explanation as to why the work is proposed to
be performed by the independent auditor;
o The request should be addressed to the Audit Committee with copies to
the Fund Treasurer and/or Director of Trustee Administration;
o The Fund Treasurer and/or Director of Trustee Administration will
arrange for a discussion of the service to be included on the agenda
for the next regularly scheduled Audit Committee meeting, when the
Committee will discuss the proposed engagement and approve or deny the
request.
o If the timing of the project is critical and the project needs to
commence before the next regularly scheduled meeting, the Chairperson
of the Audit Committee may approve or deny the request on behalf of
the Audit Committee, or, in the Chairperson's discretion, determine to
call a special meeting of the Audit Committee for the purpose of
considering the proposal. Should the Chairperson of the Audit
Committee be unavailable, any other member of the Audit Committee may
serve as an alternate for the purpose of approving or denying the
request. Discussion with the Chairperson (or alternate, if necessary)
will be arranged by the Fund Treasurer and/or Director of Trustee
Administration. The independent auditor will not commence any such
project unless and until specific approval has been given.
III. CERTAIN OTHER SERVICES PROVIDED TO ADVISER ENTITIES
The Audit Committee recognizes that there are cases where services proposed to
be provided by the independent auditor to the adviser or control affiliates are
not Fund-related Adviser Services within the meaning of the Policy, but
nonetheless may be relevant to the Audit Committee's ongoing evaluation of the
auditor's independence and objectivity with respect to its audit services to the
funds. As a result, in all cases where an Adviser Entity engages the independent
auditor to provide audit or non-audit services that are not Fund Services or
Fund-related Adviser Services, were not subject to pre-approval by the Audit
Committee, and the projected fees for any such engagement (or the aggregate of
all such engagements during the period covered by the Policy) exceeds a
pre-determined threshold established by the Audit Committee; the independent
auditor, Fund Treasurer and/or Director of Trustee Administration will notify
the Audit Committee not later than its next meeting. Such notification shall
include a general description of the services provided, the entity that is to be
the recipient of such services, the timing of the engagement, the entity's
reasons for selecting the independent auditor, and the projected fees. Such
information will allow the Audit Committee to consider whether non-audit
services provided to the adviser and Adviser Entities, which were not subject to
Audit Committee pre-approval, are compatible with maintaining the auditor's
independence with respect to the Funds.
IV. REPORTING TO THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Fund Treasurer or Director of Trustee Administration shall report to the
Audit Committee at each of its regular meetings regarding all Fund Services or
Fund-related Adviser Services initiated since the last such report was rendered,
including:
o A general description of the services, and
o Actual billed and projected fees, and
o The means by which such Fund Services or Fund-related Adviser Services
were pre-approved by the Audit Committee.
In addition, the independent auditor shall report to the Audit Committee
annually, and no more than 90 days prior to the filing of audit reports with the
SEC, all non-audit services provided to entities in the funds' "investment
company complex," as defined by SEC rules, that did not require pre-approval
under the Policy.
V. AMENDMENTS; ANNUAL APPROVAL BY AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Policy may be amended from time to time by the Audit Committee. Prompt
notice of any amendments will be provided to the independent auditor, Fund
Treasurer and Director of Trustee Administration. The Policy shall be reviewed
and approved at least annually by the Audit Committee.
*****
(e)(2) The percentage of services described in paragraphs (b) through (d) of
this Item approved pursuant to the "de minimis" exception under paragraph
(c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X during both fiscal years ended
November 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003 was zero.
(f) Not applicable.
(g) All non-audit fees billed by the registrant's accountant for services
rendered to the registrant for the fiscal years ended November 30, 2004 and
November 30, 2003 are disclosed in (b) through (d) of this Item.
During the fiscal years ended November 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003, there
were no Audit-Related Fees, Tax Fees or All Other Fees that were approved for
services to the 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 adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant under
paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
The percentage of Audit-Related Fees, Tax Fees and All Other Fees required to be
approved under paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X that were
approved under the "de minimis" exception during both fiscal years ended
November 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003 was zero.
(h) The registrant's Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has considered
whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the
registrant's 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. The Audit Committee determined that the provision of such services
is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant's independence.
ITEM 5. AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS.
The registrant has a separately-designated standing audit committee established
in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C.
78c(a)(58)(A)). Douglas A. Hacker, Thomas E. Stitzel, Anne-Lee Verville and
Richard L. Woolworth are each independent trustees and collectively constitute
the entire Audit Committee.
ITEM 6. SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
The registrant's "Schedule I - Investments in securities of unaffiliated
issuers" (as set forth in 17 CFR 210.12-12) is included in Item 1 of this Form
N-CSR.
ITEM 7. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
The Fund has delegated to Columbia Management Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor") the
responsibility to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the
Fund. In deciding to delegate this responsibility to the Advisor, the Board of
Trustees of the Trust reviewed and approved the policies and procedures adopted
by the Advisor. These included the procedures that the Advisor follows when a
vote presents a conflict between the interests of the Fund and its shareholders
and the Advisor, its affiliates, its other clients or other persons.
The Advisor's policy is to vote all proxies for Fund securities in a manner
considered by the Advisor to be in the best interest of the Fund and its
shareholders without regard to any benefit to the Advisor, its affiliates, its
other clients or other persons. The Advisor examines each proposal and votes
against the proposal, if, in its judgment, approval or adoption of the proposal
would be expected to impact adversely the current or potential market value of
the issuer's securities. The Advisor also examines each proposal and votes the
proxies against the proposal, if, in its judgment, the proposal would be
expected to affect adversely the best interest of the Fund. The Advisor
determines the best interest of the Fund in light of the potential economic
return on the Fund's investment.
The Advisor addresses potential material conflicts of interest by having
predetermined voting guidelines. For those proposals that require special
consideration or in instances where special circumstances may require varying
from the predetermined guideline, the Advisor's Proxy Committee determines the
vote in the best interest of the Fund, without consideration of any
benefit to the Advisor, its affiliates, its other clients or other persons. The
Advisor's Proxy Committee is composed of representatives of the Advisor's equity
investments, equity research, compliance, legal and fund administration
functions. In addition to the responsibilities described above, the Proxy
Committee has the responsibility to review, on a semi-annual basis, the
Advisor's proxy voting policies to ensure consistency with internal policies and
regulatory agency policies and to develop additional voting guidelines to assist
in the review of proxy proposals.
The Proxy Committee may vary from the predetermined guideline if it determines
that voting on the proposal according to the predetermined guideline would be
expected to impact adversely the current or potential market value of the
issuer's securities or to affect adversely the best interest of the client.
References to the best interest of a client refer to the interest of the client
in terms of the potential economic return on the client's investment. In
determining the vote on any proposal, the Proxy Committee does not consider any
benefit other than benefits to the owner of the securities to be voted. A member
of the Proxy Committee is prohibited from voting on any proposal for which he or
she has a conflict of interest by reason of a direct relationship with the
issuer or other party affected by a given proposal. Persons making
recommendations to the Proxy Committee or its members are required to disclose
to the Committee any relationship with a party making a proposal or other matter
known to the person that would create a potential conflict of interest.
The Advisor has retained Institutional Shareholder Services ("ISS"), a third
party vendor, to implement its proxy voting process. ISS provides proxy
analysis, record keeping services and vote disclosure services.
ITEM 8. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
Not yet applicable.
ITEM 9. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT
COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.
Registrant Purchases of Equity Securities*
(a) (b) (c) (d)
Total Number of Maximum Number of
Shares Purchased as Shares that May Yet
Period Total Number Average Price Part of Publically Be Purchased Under
of Shares Paid Per Share Announced Plans the Plans or Programs
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
06/01/04 through 06/30/04 505 $13.95 505 N/A
07/01/04 through 07/31/04 0 $0.00 0 N/A
08/01/04 through 08/31/04 0 $0.00 0 N/A
09/01/04 through 09/30/04 0 $0.00 0 N/A
10/01/04 through 10/31/04 0 $0.00 0 N/A
11/01/04 through 11/30/04 0 $0.00 0 N/A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 505 $13.95 505 N/A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Includes shares purchased by the Dividend Reinvestment Agent pursuant to
the Registrant's Dividend Reinvestment Plan.
ITEM 10. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.
There have not been any material changes to the procedures by which shareholders
may recommend nominees to the registrant's board of directors, since those
procedures were last disclosed in response to the requirements of Item
7(d)(2)(ii)(G) of Schedule 14A or this Item.
ITEM 11. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
(a) The registrant's principal executive officer and principal financial
officers, based on their evaluation of the registrant's disclosure
controls and procedures as of a
date within 90 days of the filing of this report, have concluded that
such controls and procedures are adequately designed to ensure that
information required to be disclosed by the registrant in Form N-CSR
is accumulated and communicated to the registrant's management,
including the principal executive officer and principal financial
officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to
allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
(b) There were no changes in the registrant's internal control over
financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's second fiscal
quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially
affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the
registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 12. EXHIBITS.
(a)(1) Code of ethics required to be disclosed under Item 2 of Form N-CSR
attached hereto as Exhibit 99.CODE ETH.
(a)(2) Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the Investment Company Act
of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30a-2(a)) attached hereto as Exhibit 99.CERT.
(a)(3) Not applicable.
(b) Certification pursuant to Rule 30a-2(b) under the Investment Company Act of
1940 (17 CFR 270.30a-2(b)) attached hereto as Exhibit 99.906CERT.
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.
(registrant) Colonial Insured Municipal Fund
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By (Signature and Title) /S/ Christopher L. Wilson
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Christopher L. Wilson, President
Date January 26, 2005
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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 (Signature and Title) /S/ Christopher L. Wilson
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Christopher L. Wilson, President
Date January 26, 2005
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By (Signature and Title) /S/ J. Kevin Connaughton
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J. Kevin Connaughton, Treasurer
Date January 26, 2005
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