BlackRock Smaller Companies Trust plc

BlackRock Smaller Companies Trust plc functions as a closed-ended equity investment vehicle, initially launched by BlackRock Fund Managers Limited. Its portfolio is actively managed by BlackRock Investment Managers (UK) Limited, primarily targeting publicly traded smaller companies within the United Kingdom's equity markets. The trust's strategy involves investing in businesses operating across a diverse array of sectors, such as support services, software and IT solutions, media and entertainment, construction and building materials, hospitality and leisure, general retail, mining, oil and gas, specialized financial services, and information technology hardware. Established in 1906 and based in the United Kingdom, this entity was formerly known as the Merrill Lynch British Smaller Companies Trust plc.