As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2013

Securities Act File No. 333-177629

Investment Company Act File No. 811-06342

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form N-2

x Registration Statement Under the Securities Act of 1933

o  Pre-Effective Amendment No.

x  Post-Effective Amendment No. 2

and/or

x Registration Statement under the Investment Company Act of 1940

x  Amendment No. 15

Aberdeen Global Income Fund, Inc.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

1735 Market Street, 32nd Floor

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103

Address of Principal Executive Offices

Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code: (866) 839-5205

Lucia Sitar, Esq.

c/o Aberdeen Asset Management Inc.

1735 Market Street, 32nd Floor

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103

Name and Address of Agent For Service

Copies to:

Rose F. DiMartino, Esq.
Willkie Farr & Gallagher

787 Seventh Avenue

New York, New York 10019

Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering:  From time to time after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

If any of the securities being registered on this form will be offered on a delayed or continuous basis in reliance on Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, other than securities offered in connection with a dividend reinvestment plan, check the following box. x

It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)

o            when declared effective pursuant to section 8(c)

x          On February 28, 2013 pursuant to Rule 486(b) as applied by no-action relief granted to Registrant on April 12, 2012

BASE PROSPECTUS

$60,000,000

ABERDEEN GLOBAL INCOME FUND, INC.

Shares of Common Stock

Aberdeen Global Income Fund, Inc. ("Fund," "we," "us" or "our") is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company with a leveraged capital structure that commenced operations on June 28, 1991. The Fund's principal investment objective is to provide high current income by investing primarily in fixed income securities. As a secondary investment objective, the Fund seeks capital appreciation, but only when consistent with its principal objective.

We may offer, from time to time, in one or more offerings, including through rights offerings, our shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share ("Shares"). Shares may be offered at prices and on terms to be set forth in one or more supplements to this Prospectus (each, a "Prospectus Supplement"). You should read this Prospectus and the applicable Prospectus Supplement carefully before you invest in our Shares.

Our Shares may be offered directly to one or more purchasers, through agents designated from time to time by us, or to or through underwriters or dealers. The Prospectus Supplement relating to the offering will identify any agents or underwriters involved in the sale of our Shares, and will set forth any applicable purchase price, fee, commission or discount arrangement between us and our agents or underwriters, or among our underwriters, or the basis upon which such amount may be calculated. We may not sell any of our Shares through agents, underwriters or dealers without delivery of a Prospectus Supplement describing the method and terms of the particular offering of our Shares.

Our Shares are listed on the NYSE MKT LLC ("NYSE MKT") under the symbol "FCO." The last reported sale price of our Shares, as reported by the NYSE MKT on January 31, 2013, was $14.05 per Share. The net asset value of our Shares at the close of business on January 31, 2013, was $13.77 per Share.

Investment in the Shares involves certain risks and special considerations, including risks associated with currency fluctuations. The Fund also has authority to borrow to finance investments and to issue preferred stock. Both practices entail risks. Investing in the Fund's common stock may be speculative and involve a high degree of risk and should not constitute a complete investment program. For a discussion of these and other risks, see "Risks and Special Considerations."

Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount to their net asset value. If the Fund's Shares trade at a discount to its net asset value, the risk of loss may increase for purchasers in a public offering. See "Risks and Special Considerations-Net Asset Value Discount."

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

This Prospectus, together with any Prospectus Supplement, sets forth concisely the information about the Fund that a prospective investor should know before investing. You should read this Prospectus and applicable Prospectus Supplement, which contain important information, before deciding whether to invest in the Shares. You should retain the Prospectus and Prospectus Supplement for future reference. A Statement of Additional Information ("SAI"), dated February 28, 2013, containing additional information about the Fund, has been filed with the SEC and is incorporated by reference in its entirety into this Prospectus. The Table of Contents for the SAI is on page 63 of this Prospectus. You may call 1-866-839-5233, email InvestorRelations@aberdeen-asset.com or write to the Fund at 1735 Market Street, 32nd Floor, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 to obtain, free of charge, copies of the SAI and the Fund's annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders, as well as to obtain other information about the Fund and to make shareholder inquiries. The Fund's SAI, as well as the annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders, are also available on the Fund's website at www.aberdeenfco.com. The SEC maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov that contains the SAI, material incorporated by reference into the Fund's registration statement and additional information about the Fund.

Our Shares do not represent a deposit or obligation of, and are not guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank or other insured depository institution, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board or any other government agency.

Prospectus dated February 28, 2013

TABLE OF CONTENTS

You should rely only on the information contained in, or incorporated by reference into, this Prospectus and any related Prospectus Supplement in making your investment decisions. The Fund has not authorized any person to provide you with different information. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. The Fund is not making an offer to sell the Shares in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should assume that the information in this Prospectus and any Prospectus Supplement is accurate only as of the dates on their covers. The Fund's business, financial condition and prospects may have changed since the date of its description in this Prospectus or the date of its description in any Prospectus Supplement.

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

The following information is only a summary. You should consider the more detailed information contained in the Prospectus and in any related Prospectus Supplement and in the SAI before purchasing Shares, especially the information under "Risks and Special Considerations" on page 39 of the Prospectus.

The Fund    The Fund is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company organized as a Maryland corporation. See "The Fund."

The Fund's Shares are listed for trading on the NYSE MKT under the symbol "FCO." As of January 31, 2013, the net assets of the Fund were $127,824,649 and the Fund had outstanding 9,279,978 Shares. The last reported sale price of the Fund's Shares, as reported by the NYSE MKT on January 31, 2013 was $14.05 per Share. The net asset value of the Fund's Shares at the close of business on January 31, 2013 was $13.77 per Share. See "Description of Shares."

The Offering    We may offer, from time to time, in one or more offerings, including through rights offerings, up to $60,000,000 of our Shares on terms to be determined at the time of the offering. The Shares may be offered at prices and on terms to be set forth in one or more Prospectus Supplements. The offering price of our Shares will not be less than the net asset value of our Shares at the time we make the offering, exclusive of any underwriting commissions or discounts. You should read this Prospectus and the applicable Prospectus Supplement carefully before you invest in our Shares. Our Shares may be offered directly to one or more purchasers, through agents designated from time to time by us, or to or through underwriters or dealers. The Prospectus Supplement relating to the offering will identify any agents, underwriters or dealers involved in the sale of our Shares, and will set forth any applicable purchase price, fee, commission or discount arrangement between us and our agents or underwriters, or among our underwriters, or the basis upon which such amount may be calculated. See "Plan of Distribution." We may not sell any of our Shares through agents, underwriters or dealers without delivery of a Prospectus Supplement describing the method and terms of the particular offering of our Shares.

Use of Proceeds    We intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of our Shares primarily to invest in accordance with our investment objectives and policies. Proceeds will be invested within approximately 60 days of receipt by the Fund. See "Use of Proceeds."

Investment Objectives    The Fund's principal investment objective is to provide high current income by investing primarily in fixed income securities. As a secondary investment objective, the Fund seeks capital appreciation, but only when consistent with its principal objective. There can be no assurance that the Fund's investment objectives will be achieved. The Fund's investment objectives may not be changed without the approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities. See "Investment Objectives."

Investment Policies    As a non-fundamental policy, under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in debt securities. If the Fund changes its 80% policy, it will notify shareholders at least 60 days' before the change and may need to change the name of the Fund.

Under normal circumstances, at least 60% of the Fund's total assets are invested in fixed income securities of issuers in Developed Markets or Investment Grade Developing Markets (as defined below), whether or not denominated in the currency of such country; provided, however, that the Fund invests at least 40% of its total assets in fixed income securities of issuers in Developed Markets. The Fund may invest up to 40% of its total assets in fixed income securities of issuers in Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets (as defined below), whether or not denominated in the currency of such country. Fixed income securities of issuers in Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets may be rated below investment grade, as described below, at the time of investment (sometimes referred to as "junk bonds"). Below investment grade securities are considered to be speculative with respect to the issuer's ability to pay interest and principal when due.

The following will be deemed to be "issuers in" a particular market:

•  governmental entities of the particular country;

•  banks, companies and other entities whose principal place of business is located in the particular country;

•  banks, companies and other entities which are organized under the laws of the particular country;

•  banks, companies and other entities for which the principal securities trading market is in the particular country;

•  entities which, although not located in the particular country, derive at least 50% of their revenues from that country or have at least 50% of their assets located in that country; and

•  wholly-owned subsidiaries of an entity whose principal place of business is located in the particular country, provided that the debt securities are guaranteed by a parent entity whose principal place of business is located in the particular country.

The Fund may also consider, among other criteria, the currency that securities are denominated in, or linked to, in determining whether the issuer of such securities is deemed to be an "issuer in" a particular market.

Aberdeen Asset Management Asia Limited, the Fund's investment manager ("AAMAL" or the "Investment Manager"), manages the Fund's investments and makes investments decisions on behalf of the Fund. Aberdeen Asset Management Limited, the Fund's investment adviser (the "Investment Adviser"), makes recommendations to the

Investment Manager as to overall structure of the Fund's portfolio, including asset allocation advice and general advice on investment strategy relating to the Fund's overall investment objectives and the selection of and the placement of orders with brokers and dealers to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the Fund. Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited, the Fund's sub-adviser (the "Sub-Adviser") will provide sub-advisory services to the Fund, in accordance with the Fund's stated investment objectives, policies and limitations and subject to the supervision of the Fund's Board of Directors, and will manage the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to it by the Investment Manager. Each of the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser (collectively, the "Advisers") is a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act").

"Developed Markets" are those countries contained in the Citigroup World Government Bond Index, New Zealand, Luxembourg and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. As of October 31, 2012, securities of the following countries comprised the Citigroup World Government Bond Index: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and the United States.

"Investment Grade Developing Markets" are those countries whose sovereign debt is rated not less than Baa3 by Moody's Investor Services ("Moody's") or BBB- by Standard & Poor's, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ("S&P"), or comparably rated by another appropriate nationally or internationally recognized rating agency.

"Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets" are those countries that are not Developed Markets or Investment Grade Developing Markets (Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets, together with Investment Grade Developing Markets are referred to herein as "Developing Markets"). Securities of issuers in Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets may be rated below investment grade at the time of investment.

While the credit quality of a market is reviewed at the time of the Fund's investment in that market, classification of a market may be amended by the Investment Manager as ratings and/or circumstances change over time. See "Investment Policies."

The Fund will invest in debt securities that are economically tied to a number of countries throughout the world and will, under normal circumstances, be invested in three or more different non-U.S. countries. The maximum exposure to issuers in any one Developed Market is up to 25% of the Fund's total assets. The maximum exposure to issuers in any one Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 20% of the Fund's total assets. The maximum exposure to

issuers in any one Sub-Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 15% of the Fund's total assets. Such exposure limits are applied at the time of investment, although classification of a market or an issuer in a market may be amended by the Investment Manager as ratings and/or circumstances change over time.

The maximum exposure to the currency of any one Developed Market is up to 25% of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, the Fund may exceed this limitation with respect to the U.S. dollar. The maximum exposure to the currency of any one Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 20% of the Fund's total assets. The maximum exposure to the currency of any one Sub-Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 15% of the Fund's total assets. Such exposure limits are applied at the time of investment, although, as stated above, classification of a market may be amended by the Investment Manager as ratings and/or circumstances change over time.

Up to 40% of the Fund's investments (or the issuers of those investments) may be rated below investment grade at the time of investment; that is rated below Baa3 by Moody's or BBB by S&P, or comparably rated by another appropriate nationally or internationally recognized rating agency, or if unrated, judged by the Investment Manager to be of equivalent quality. All of the Fund's investments (or the issuers of those investments) must be rated, at the time of investment, B3 or better by Moody's, or B- or better by S&P, or comparably rated by another appropriate nationally or internationally recognized rating agency, or if unrated, judged by the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser or Sub-Adviser to be of equivalent quality. In the event that a security receives different ratings from different rating agencies (Fitch, Moody's and S&P), the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser or Sub-Adviser will apply the highest rating received from the rating agencies in determining compliance with these guidelines. While the credit quality of each of the Fund's investments is evaluated at the time of investment, the credit quality of the Fund's portfolio may be reviewed from time to time and adjusted accordingly.

The Fund currently utilizes and in the future expects to continue to utilize leverage through borrowings or through other transactions, such as reverse repurchase agreements, which have the effect of leverage. The Fund may also utilize leverage through the issuance of debt securities or preferred stock, although it has no current intention to do so. The Fund may use leverage up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount obtained through leverage). The Fund generally will not utilize leverage if it anticipates that the Fund's leveraged capital structure would result in a lower return to shareholders than that obtainable over time with an unleveraged capital structure. Use of leverage creates an opportunity for increased income and capital appreciation for shareholders but, at the same time, creates special risks, and there can be no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful during any period in which it is employed. See "Use of Leverage."

Consistent with its investment objectives, the Fund may invest in a broad array of financial instruments and securities in which the value of the instrument or security is "derived" from the performance of an underlying asset or a "benchmark" such as a security index, an interest rate or a foreign currency ("derivatives"). The Fund may use derivatives to manage currency risk, credit risk and interest rate risk and to replicate or as a substitute for physical securities. The Fund may use interest rate swaps to hedge the Fund's liability with respect to its leverage. There is no limit on the amount of interest rate swap transactions that may be entered into by the Fund. Derivative debt securities that replicate, or substitute for, the currency of a particular country will be counted toward the limitations applicable with respect to issuers in that country. The Fund may invest in over-the-counter or exchange traded derivatives. The Fund may invest in derivatives up to the limits allowed under the 1940 Act.

Investment Restrictions    The Fund has certain investment restrictions that may not be changed without approval by a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. These restrictions concern issuance of senior securities, borrowing, lending, concentration, underwriting and real estate. See "Investment Restrictions."

Use of Leverage    As provided in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and subject to certain exceptions, the Fund may issue debt with the condition that immediately after issuance the value of its total assets, less certain ordinary course liabilities, exceeds 300% of the amount of the debt outstanding.

Thus, as noted above, the Fund may use leverage in the form of borrowings in an amount up to 33 1/3% of the Fund's total assets (including the proceeds of such leverage). The Fund seeks a leverage ratio, based on a variety of factors including market conditions and the Investment Manager's market outlook, where the rate of return, net of applicable Fund expenses, on the Fund's investment portfolio investments purchased with leverage exceeds the costs associated with such leverage.

The Fund, as of January 31, 2013, is leveraged through borrowings from a credit facility in the amount of $40,000,000 or 24% of the Fund's total assets (including the proceeds of such leverage). The Fund's asset coverage ratio as of January 31, 2013 was 419%. See "Risks and Special Considerations—Leverage Risk" for a brief description of the Fund's credit agreement with The Bank of Nova Scotia.

Following the completion of an offering, the Fund may increase the amount of leverage outstanding. The Fund may engage in additional borrowings in order to maintain the Fund's desired leverage ratio. Leverage creates a greater risk of loss, as well as a potential for more gain, for the common stock than if leverage were not used. Interest on borrowings may be at a fixed or floating rate, and the interest at a

floating rate generally will be based on short-term rates. The costs associated with the Fund's use of leverage, including the issuance of such leverage and the payment of dividends or interest on such leverage, will be borne entirely by the holders of common stock. As long as the rate of return, net of applicable Fund expenses, on the Fund's investment portfolio investments purchased with leverage exceeds the costs associated with such leverage, the Fund will generate more return or income than will be needed to pay such costs. In this event, the excess will be available to pay higher dividends to holders of common stock. Conversely, if the Fund's return on such assets is less than the cost of leverage and other Fund expenses, the return to the holders of the common stock will diminish. To the extent that the Fund uses leverage, the net asset value and market price of the common stock and the yield to holders of common stock will be more volatile. The Fund's leveraging strategy may not be successful. See "Use of Leverage" and "Risks and Special Considerations—Leverage Risk."

Risks (See generally "Risks and Special Considerations" for more information on these and other risks)    The value of the Fund's assets, as well as the market price of its shares, will fluctuate. You can lose money on your investment. Investing in the Fund involves other risks, including the following:

•  General. The Fund is a non-diversified, closed-end investment company designed primarily as a long-term investment and not as a trading tool. The Fund invests primarily in fixed income securities. An investment in the Fund's Common Stock may be speculative and involves a high degree of risk. The Fund should not constitute a complete investment program. Due to the uncertainty in all investments, there can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objectives.

•  Investment and Market Risk. An investment in the Fund's Shares is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of the entire principal amount that you invest. Your investment in Shares represents an indirect investment in the securities owned by the Fund. The value of these securities, like other market investments, may move up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, and these fluctuations are likely to have a greater impact on the value of the Shares during periods in which the Fund utilizes a leveraged capital structure. If the current global economic downturn continues into a prolonged recession or deteriorates further, the ability of issuers of the corporate fixed-income securities and other securities in which the Fund invests to service their obligations could be materially and adversely affected. The value of the securities in which the Fund invests will affect the value of the Shares. Your Shares at any point in time may be worth less than your original investment, even after taking into account the reinvestment of Fund dividends and distributions.

•  Credit Risk. Investments in debt securities expose the Fund to credit risk. Credit risk is the risk that one or more of the Fund's investments in debt securities or other instruments will decline in price, or fail to pay interest, liquidation value or principal when due, because the issuer of the obligation or the issuer of a reference security experiences an actual or perceived decline in its financial status. Credit risk is influenced by changes in general economic and political conditions and changes in the financial condition of the issuers. During periods of economic downturn or rising interest rates, issuers of securities with a low credit rating may experience financial weakness that could affect their ability to make payments of interest and principal.

•  Interest Rate Risk. Generally, when market interest rates rise, the prices of debt obligations fall, and vice versa. Interest rate risk is the risk that debt obligations and other instruments in the Fund's portfolio will decline in value because of increases in market interest rates. This risk may be particularly acute because market interest rates are currently at historically low levels. The prices of long-term debt obligations generally fluctuate more than prices of short-term debt obligations as interest rates change. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended due to slower than expected payments. This may lock in a below market yield, increase the security's duration and reduce the security's value. The Fund's use of leverage will tend to increase interest rate risk.

  Investments in floating rate debt instruments, although generally less sensitive to interest rate changes than longer duration fixed rate instruments, may nevertheless decline in value in response to rising interest rates if, for example, the rates at which they pay interest do not rise as much, or as quickly, as market interest rates in general. Conversely, floating rate instruments will not generally increase in value if interest rates decline. Inverse floating rate debt securities may also exhibit greater price volatility than a fixed rate debt obligation with similar credit quality. To the extent the Fund holds floating rate instruments, a decrease (or, in the case of inverse floating rate securities, an increase) in market interest rates will adversely affect the income received from such securities and the net asset value of the Fund's common shares.

•  Foreign Securities Risk. Investing in foreign securities involves certain special considerations that are not typically associated with investments in the securities of United States issuers. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and may have policies that are not comparable to those of domestic issuers. As a result, there may be less information available about foreign issuers than about domestic issuers. Securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of securities markets, brokers and issuers than in the

Investments in securities of foreign issuers often will be denominated in foreign currencies. Accordingly, the value of the Fund's assets, as measured in U.S. dollars, may be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in currency exchange rates and in exchange control regulations. The Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between various currencies. See "Risks and Special Considerations—Foreign Currency Risk."

  The Fund generally holds its foreign securities and cash in foreign banks and securities depositories approved by State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Fund's Foreign Custody Manager (as that term is defined in Rule 17f-5 under the 1940 Act). Some foreign banks and securities depositories may be recently organized or new to the foreign custody business. There may be limited or no regulatory oversight over their operations. Also, the laws of certain countries may put limits on the Fund's ability to recover its assets if a foreign bank, depository or issuer of a security, or any of their agents, goes bankrupt. In addition, it is often more expensive for the Fund to buy, sell and hold securities in certain foreign markets than in the United States. The increased expense of investing in foreign markets reduces the amount the Fund can earn on its investments and typically results in a higher operating expense ratio for the Fund than for investment companies invested only in the United States.

  Certain foreign governments levy withholding or other taxes on dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion of foreign withholding taxes will reduce the income received from investments in such countries.

  From time to time, the Fund may have invested in certain sovereign debt obligations that are issued by, or certain companies that operate in or have dealings with, countries that become subject to sanctions or embargoes imposed by the United States government and the United Nations and/or countries identified by the United States government as state sponsors of terrorism. Investments in such countries may be adversely affected because, for example, the credit rating of the sovereign debt security may be lowered due to the country's instability or unreliability or the company may suffer damage to its reputation if it is identified as a company which operates in, or has dealings with, such countries. As an investor in such companies, the Fund will be indirectly subject to those risks.

•  Developing Markets Risk. Investing in the securities of issuers located in Developing Market countries (and to a certain extent non-U.S. Developed Market countries) involves special considerations not typically associated with investing in the securities of U.S. issuers and other Developed Market issuers, including heightened risks of expropriation and/or nationalization, armed conflict, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on transfers of assets, lack of uniform accounting and auditing standards, less

publicly available financial and other information and potential difficulties in enforcing contractual obligations.

  The economies of individual Developing Market countries may differ favorably or unfavorably from the United States economy in such respects as growth of gross domestic product, rate of inflation, currency depreciation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. Governments of many Developing Market countries have exercised and continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector. In some cases, the government owns or controls many companies, including some of the largest in the country.

  Accordingly, government actions could have a significant effect on economic conditions in a Developing Market country and on market conditions, prices and yields of securities in the Fund's portfolio. Moreover, the economies of Developing Market countries generally are heavily dependent upon international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be adversely affected by trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. These economies also have been and may continue to be adversely affected by economic conditions in the countries with which they trade. Many Developing Market economies are considered to be more politically volatile than the Developed Markets. Investments in securities of issuers in countries other than the United States may involve greater political risk, including in some countries, the possibility of nationalization of assets, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, restrictions on repatriation, and the establishment of foreign exchange controls, political changes, government regulation, overburdened and obsolete or unseasoned financial systems, environmental problems, less developed legal systems, economic or social instability or diplomatic developments (including war) which could affect adversely the economies of such countries or the value of the Fund's investments in those countries. Central authorities also tend to exercise a high degree of control over the economies and in many cases have ownership over core productive assets.

  The legal systems in many Developing Market countries are less developed than those in more developed countries, with the administration of laws and regulations often subject to considerable discretion. Non-U.S. markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. or other Developed Markets. It also may be difficult to obtain and enforce a judgment in a court outside of the United States. Due to their strong reliance on international trade, most Developing Market economies tend to be sensitive both to economic changes in their own region and to changes affecting their major trading partners. These include changes in growth, inflation, foreign exchange rates, current account positions, government policies, taxation and tariffs.

•  Foreign Currency Risk. The Fund may invest all of its assets in debt securities which are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Currency exchange rates can fluctuate significantly over short periods and can be subject to unpredictable changes based on a variety of factors including political developments and currency controls by governments. A change in the value of a currency in which a security is denominated against the U.S. dollar will generally result in a change in the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's assets.

  The currencies of Developing Markets, in particular, have experienced periods of steady declines or even sudden devaluations relative to the U.S. dollar. Some Developing Market currencies may not be internationally traded or may be subject to strict controls by local governments, resulting in undervalued or overvalued currencies. Some Developing Markets have experienced balance of payment deficits and shortages in foreign exchange reserves. Governments have responded by restricting currency conversions. Future restrictive exchange controls could prevent or restrict a company's ability to make dividend or interest payments in the original currency of an obligation (often U.S. dollars). In addition, even though the currencies of some Developing Markets may be convertible into U.S. dollars, the conversion rates may be artificial to their actual market values.

•  Sovereign Debt Obligations Risk. Investments in Developing Market countries' government debt obligations involve special risks. Certain Developing Market countries have historically experienced, and may continue to experience, high rates of inflation, high interest rates, exchange rate fluctuations, large amounts of external debt, balance of payments and trade difficulties and extreme poverty and unemployment. The issuer or governmental authority that controls the repayment of a Developing Market country's debt may not be able or willing to repay the principal and/or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt. A debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and interest due in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation and, in the case of a government debtor, the extent of its foreign reserves, the availability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the government debtor's policy towards the International Monetary Fund and the political constraints to which a government debtor may be subject. Government debtors may default on their debt and may also be dependent on expected disbursements from foreign governments, multilateral agencies and others abroad to reduce principal and interest arrearages on their debt. The commitment on the part of these governments, agencies and others to make such disbursements may be conditioned on a debtor's implementation of economic reforms and/or economic performance and the timely service of such debtor's obligations. Failure to implement such reforms, achieve

such levels of economic performance or repay principal or interest when due may result in the cancellation of such third parties' commitments to lend funds to the government debtor, which may further impair such debtor's ability or willingness to service its debts on a timely basis. Holders of government debt, including the Fund, may be requested to participate in the rescheduling of such debt and to extend further loans to government debtors.

  As a result of the foregoing, a government obligor may default on its obligations. If such an event occurs, the Fund may have limited legal recourse against the issuer and/or guarantor. Remedies must, in some cases, be pursued in the courts of the defaulting party itself, and the ability of the holder of foreign government debt securities to obtain recourse may be subject to the political climate in the relevant country. In addition, no assurance can be given that the holders of more senior fixed income securities, such as commercial bank debt, will not contest payments to the holders of other foreign government debt securities in the event of default under their commercial bank loan agreements.

  Government obligors in Developing Market countries are among the world's largest debtors to commercial banks, other governments, international financial organizations and other financial institutions. The issuers of the government debt securities in which the Fund may invest have in the past experienced substantial difficulties in servicing their external debt obligations, which led to defaults on certain obligations and the restructuring of certain indebtedness. Restructuring arrangements have included, among other things, reducing and rescheduling interest and principal payments by negotiating new or amended credit agreements, and obtaining new credit to finance interest payments. Holders of certain foreign government debt securities may be requested to participate in the restructuring of such obligations and to extend further loans to their issuers. There can be no assurance that the foreign government debt securities in which the Fund may invest will not be subject to similar restructuring arrangements or to requests for new credit, which may adversely affect the Fund's holdings. Furthermore, certain participants in the secondary market for such debt may be directly involved in negotiating the terms of these arrangements and may therefore have access to information not available to other market participants.

  Investments in Developing Market countries' government debt securities involve currency risk.

•  Corporate Debt Risk. The Fund may invest in debt securities of non-governmental issuers. Like all debt securities, corporate debt securities generally represent an issuer's obligation to repay to the investor (or lender) the amount borrowed plus interest over a specified time period. A typical corporate bond specifies a fixed date when the amount borrowed (principal) is due in full, known as the maturity date, and specifies dates when periodic interest (coupon) payments will be made over the life of the security.

  Corporate debt securities come in many varieties and may differ in the way that interest is calculated, the amount and frequency of payments, the type of collateral, if any, and the presence of special features (e.g., conversion rights). The Fund's investments in corporate debt securities may include, but are not limited to, senior, junior, secured and unsecured bonds, notes and other debt securities, and may be fixed rate, floating rate, zero coupon and inflation linked, among other things.

  Prices of corporate debt securities fluctuate and, in particular, are subject to several key risks including, but not limited to, interest rate risk, credit risk, prepayment risk and spread risk. The market value of a corporate bond may be affected by the credit rating of the corporation, the corporation's performance and perceptions of the corporation in the market place. There is a risk that the issuers of the corporate debt securities in which the Fund may invest may not be able to meet their obligations on interest or principal payments at the time called for by an instrument.

•  Below Investment Grade Securities Risk. The Fund may invest up to 40% of its total assets in debt securities which, at the time of investment, are rated below investment grade (i.e., securities that have been rated below BBB- by S&P or Baa3 by Moody's) (also known as "junk bonds") or, if unrated, are in the opinion of the Investment Manager, of equivalent quality. Among other things, investment in securities which are rated below investment grade requires skilled credit analysis and reduces the overall credit quality of the Fund's portfolio.

  Investments in securities rated below investment grade are subject to greater market fluctuations and risk of loss of income and principal than investments in securities with investment grade credit ratings. The former will generally provide higher yields due to the higher premiums required by investors for taking the associated credit risk.

•  Leverage Risk. The Fund currently has a bank loan to finance investments as a form of leverage. The Fund also has authority to issue preferred stock to finance investments. Leverage entails particular risks for holders of the Fund's common stock. The issuance of preferred stock would affect the amount of income available for distribution on the Fund's common stock as well as the net asset value of the common stock and the voting rights of holders of common stock. Leverage would exaggerate the effects of both currency fluctuations and of market downturns or upturns on the net asset value and market value of the Fund's common stock, as well as on distributions to holders of common stock. Leverage can also increase the volatility of the Fund's net asset value, and expenses related to leverage can reduce the Fund's income. In the case of leverage, if Fund assets decline in value so that legal asset coverage requirements for any borrowings or preferred stock would not be met, the Fund may be prevented from paying distributions, which could jeopardize its qualification

for pass-through tax treatment, make it liable for excise taxes and/or force it to sell portfolio securities at an inopportune time. Holders of preferred stock have the right to elect two directors, and such holders, as well as Fund creditors, have the right under certain circumstances to elect a majority of the Fund's directors.

  As noted above, the Fund currently leverages through borrowings from a credit facility. The Fund has entered into a revolving credit agreement with The Bank of Nova Scotia (the "Credit Agreement") to borrow up to $40,000,000. Such borrowings constitute financial leverage. The Credit Agreement contains customary covenant, negative covenant and default provisions, including covenants that limit the Fund's ability to incur additional debt or consolidate or merge into or with any person, other than as permitted, or sell, lease or otherwise transfer, directly or indirectly, all or substantially all of its assets. The covenants also impose on the Fund asset coverage requirements, fund composition requirements and limits on certain investments, such as illiquid investments, which are more stringent than those imposed on the Fund by the 1940 Act. In addition, the Fund agreed not to purchase assets not contemplated by the investment policies and restrictions in effect when the Credit Agreement became effective. The covenants or guidelines could impede the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser or Sub-Adviser from fully managing the Fund's portfolio in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies. Furthermore, non-compliance with such covenants or the occurrence of other events could lead to the cancellation of the loan facility. The Fund may not incur additional debt from any other party, except for in limited circumstances (e.g., in the ordinary course of business). The covenants include a requirement that the Fund maintain net assets of no less than $75 million. Such restrictions shall apply only so long as the Credit Agreement remains in effect.

  Indebtedness issued under the Credit Agreement is not convertible into any other securities of the Fund. Outstanding amounts would be payable at maturity or such earlier times as required by the Credit Agreement. The Fund may be required to prepay outstanding amounts under the Credit Agreement in the event of the occurrence of certain events of default. The Fund is expected to indemnify the lenders under the Credit Agreement against certain liabilities they may incur in connection with the Credit Agreement. The Fund is required to pay commitment fees under the terms of the Credit Agreement. With the use of borrowings, there is a risk that the interest rates paid by the Fund on the amount it borrows will be higher than the return on the Fund's investments. The credit facility with The Bank of Nova Scotia may in the future be replaced or refinanced by one or more credit facilities having substantially different terms, or the Fund may be unable to renew or replace its credit facility upon the termination of the current facility, possibly requiring it to sell portfolio securities at times or prices that are disadvantageous. Any of these

situations could adversely impact income or total return to shareholders.

  The Fund must comply with investment quality, diversification and other guidelines established by the credit facility. The Fund does not anticipate that such guidelines will have a material adverse effect on the Fund's common stockholders or its ability to achieve its investment objectives. See "Use of Leverage."

•  Liquidity Risk. While the Fund ordinarily invests in debt securities for which there is an active secondary market, the Fund may invest in debt securities for which there is no established secondary market. The securities markets that exist in Developing Market countries are substantially smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the United States and other more Developed Market countries. In addition, the markets for below investment grade securities may be substantially smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the markets for prime rated securities, which may make obtaining accurate market quotations for financial reporting purposes and for calculating net asset values more difficult. Market quotations on many non-U.S. debt and sub-investment grade securities may only be available from a limited number of dealers and may not necessarily represent firm bids from those dealers or prices for actual sales. The Fund may not be able readily to dispose of illiquid securities at prices that approximate those at which the Fund could sell such securities if they were more widely traded and, as result of such illiquidity, the Fund may have to sell other investments or engage in borrowing transactions if necessary to raise cash to meet its obligations. Illiquid securities generally trade at a discount.

•  Derivatives Risk. The primary risk of derivatives is the same as the risk of the underlying asset, namely that the value of the underlying asset may increase or decrease. Adverse movements in the value of the underlying asset can expose the Fund to losses. In addition, risks in the use of derivatives include:

•  an imperfect correlation between the price of derivatives and the movement of the securities prices, interest rates or currency exchange rates being hedged or replicated;

•  the possible absence of a liquid secondary market for any particular derivative at any time;

•  the potential loss if the counterparty to the transaction does not perform as promised;

•  the possible need to defer closing out certain positions to avoid adverse tax consequences, as well as the possibility that derivative transactions may result in acceleration of gain, deferral of losses or a change in the character of gain realized;

•  the risk that the financial intermediary "manufacturing" the over-the-counter derivative, being the most active market

maker and offering the best price for repurchase, will not continue to create a credible market in the derivative;

•  because certain derivatives are "manufactured" by financial institutions, the risk that the Fund may develop a substantial exposure to financial institution counterparties; and

•  the risk that a full and complete appreciation of the complexity of derivatives and how future value is affected by various factors including changing interest rates, exchange rates and credit quality is not attained.

  There is no guarantee that derivatives will provide successful results and any success in their use depends on a variety of factors including the ability of the Advisers to predict correctly the direction of interest rates, securities prices, currency exchange rates and other factors.

  The Fund may use interest rate swaps to hedge up to 100% of its leverage. A significant type of risk associated with interest rate swaps is the risk that the counterparty may default or file for bankruptcy, in which case the Fund would bear the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under the swap agreement. There can be no assurance that the Fund will have an interest rate swap in place at any given time, nor can there be any assurance that, if an interest rate swap is in place, it will be successful in hedging the Fund's interest rate risk with respect to the Fund's leverage.

•  Hedging Strategy Risk. Certain of the investment techniques that the Fund may employ for hedging will expose the Fund to additional or increased risks.

  There may be an imperfect correlation between changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio holdings and hedging positions entered into by the Fund, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of loss. In addition, the Fund's success in using hedge instruments is subject to the Investment Manager's ability to predict correctly changes in the relationships of such hedge instruments to the Fund's portfolio holdings, and there can be no assurance that the Investment Manager's judgment in this respect will be accurate. Consequently, the use of hedging transactions might result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund, whether or not adjusted for risk, than if the Fund had not hedged its portfolio holdings.

  The Investment Manager is under no obligation to engage in any hedging strategies, and may, in its discretion, choose not to engage in hedging strategies. Even if the Investment Manager desires to hedge some of the Fund's risks, suitable hedging transactions may not be available or, if available, attractive. A failure to hedge may result in losses to the value of the Fund's investments.

•  Counterparty Risk. The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties to the derivative contracts purchased or sold by the Fund. Recently, several broker-dealers and other financial institutions have experienced extreme financial difficulty, sometimes resulting in bankruptcy of the institution. Although the Investment Manager monitors the creditworthiness of the Fund's counterparties, there can be no assurance that the Fund's counterparties will not experience similar difficulties, possibly resulting in losses to the Fund. If a counterparty becomes bankrupt, or otherwise fails to perform its obligations under a derivative contract due to financial difficulties, the Fund may experience significant delays in obtaining any recovery under the derivative contract in a bankruptcy or other reorganization proceeding. The Fund may obtain only a limited recovery or may obtain no recovery in such circumstances.

•  Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the real value of the Fund's Common Stock and dividends can decline.

•  Management Risk. The Investment Manager's, the Investment Adviser's or the Sub-Adviser's judgment about the attractiveness, relative value or potential appreciation of a particular security or investment strategy may prove to be incorrect.

•  Current Economic Conditions—Credit Crisis Liquidity and Volatility Risk. The markets for credit instruments, including fixed income securities, have experienced periods of extreme illiquidity and volatility since the latter half of 2007. Tightening of credit conditions occurred just as a record amount of corporate bonds (as measured by transaction volume) were scheduled to enter the markets in the third quarter of 2007. This imbalance has caused a significant dislocation in the markets, marked by sharply widened credit spreads, delayed high yield bond offerings and a general reduction in liquidity. General market uncertainty and consequent repricing risk have led to market imbalances of sellers and buyers, which in turn have also resulted in significant valuation uncertainties in a variety of debt securities, including certain fixed income securities. In addition, during 2008, several major dealers of fixed income securities exited the market via acquisition or bankruptcy. These conditions resulted, and in many cases continue to result in greater volatility, less liquidity, widening credit spreads and a lack of price transparency, with many debt securities remaining illiquid and of uncertain value. During times of reduced market liquidity the Fund may not be able to sell securities readily at prices reflecting the values at which the securities are carried on the Fund's books. Sales of large blocks of securities by market participants, such as the Fund, that are seeking liquidity can further reduce security prices in an illiquid market. These market conditions may make valuation of some of

the Fund's securities uncertain and/or result in sudden and significant valuation increases or decreases in its holdings. Illiquidity and volatility in the credit markets may directly and adversely affect the setting of dividend rates on the Shares.

  Furthermore, because of the current conditions in the credit markets across the globe, issuers of fixed income securities may be subject to increased costs associated with incurring debt, tightening underwriting standards and reduced liquidity for the loans they make, the securities they purchase and the securities they issue. The worsening general economic conditions have materially and adversely impacted the broader financial and credit markets and have reduced the availability of debt and equity capital for the market as a whole.

  A number of countries in Europe have experienced severe economic and financial difficulties. Many non-governmental issuers, and even certain governments, have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts; many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit or refinancing existing obligations; financial institutions have in many cases required government or central bank support, have needed to raise capital, and/or have been impaired in their ability to extend credit; and financial markets in Europe and elsewhere have experienced extreme volatility and declines in asset values and liquidity. These difficulties may continue, worsen or spread within and outside of Europe. Whether or not the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in Europe or with significant exposure to European issuers or countries, these events could negatively affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments.

  These developments have adversely affected the broader economy, and may continue to do so, which in turn may adversely affect the ability of issuers of securities owned by the Fund to make payments of principal and interest when due, lead to lower credit ratings and increased defaults. Such developments could, in turn, reduce the value of securities owned by the Fund and adversely affect the net asset value of the Fund's Common Stock. Extraordinary steps have been taken by the governments of several leading economic countries to combat the current economic crisis. The impact of these measures is not yet known and cannot be predicted.

•  Government Intervention in Financial Markets Risk. The recent instability in the financial markets has led the U.S. government and foreign governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that have experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases a lack of liquidity. U.S. federal and state governments and foreign governments, their regulatory agencies or self regulatory organizations may take additional actions that affect the regulation of the securities in which the Fund invests, or the issuers of such securities, in ways that are

unforeseeable. Issuers of corporate fixed income securities might seek protection under the bankruptcy laws. Legislation or regulation may also change the way in which the Fund itself is regulated. Such legislation or regulation could limit or preclude the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objectives. The Investment Manager will monitor developments and seek to manage the Fund's portfolio in a manner consistent with achieving the Fund's investment objectives, but there can be no assurance that it will be successful in doing so.

  Regulatory changes could adversely affect the Fund by limiting its trading activities in futures and swaps and increasing Fund expenses. Effective December 31, 2012, the Fund became subject to the CFTC's final rules which limit the Fund's ability to use futures and swaps in reliance on certain past CFTC exemptions. If the Fund cannot execute its investment strategies within the new limits, one or all of the Advisers may be required to register with the CFTC as a commodity pool operator ("CPO") with respect to the Fund. As a result of such registration, disclosure, reporting and operations of the Fund would need to comply with all applicable regulations governing commodity pools, which would increase the Fund's regulatory compliance costs.

•  Net Asset Value Discount. Shares of the Fund, a closed-end investment company, may trade in the market at a discount from their net asset value.

•  Non-Diversification Risk. As a "non-diversified" investment company, the Fund can invest more of its assets in fewer issuers than an investment company that is "diversified," exposing the Fund to greater risk. The Fund, however, intends to comply with the diversification requirements imposed by the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), for qualification as a regulated investment company.

•  Anti-takeover Charter Provisions. The Fund's charter and by-laws contain several provisions that may be regarded as "anti-takeover" because they have the effect of maintaining continuity of management. See "Certain Provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law and the Charter and Bylaws."

•  Repurchase Agreements Risk. These transactions involve risks in the event of counterparty default or insolvency.

•  Securities Lending Risk. In connection with its loans of portfolio securities, the Fund may be exposed to the risk of delay in recovery of the loaned securities or possible loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower become insolvent. The Fund also bears the risk of loss on the investment of cash collateral. There is also the risk that, in the event of default by the borrower, the collateral might not be sufficient to cover any losses incurred by the Fund. There can be no assurance that the return to the Fund from a particular loan, or from its loans overall, will exceed the related costs and any related losses.

Investment Manager, Investment Adviser and Sub-Adviser    The Fund's investment manager is Aberdeen Asset Management Asia Limited, the Fund's investment adviser is Aberdeen Asset Management Limited and the Fund's sub-adviser is Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited. The Investment Manager is a Singapore corporation located at 21 Church Street, #01-01 Capital Square Two, Singapore 049480. The Investment Manager manages the Fund's investments and makes investment decisions on behalf of the Fund. The Investment Adviser is an Australian corporation located at Level 6, 201 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. The Investment Adviser makes recommendations to the Investment Manager as to the overall structure of the Fund's portfolio, including asset allocation advice and general advice on investment strategy relating to the Fund's overall investment objectives and the selection of and the placement of orders with brokers and dealers to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser is a United Kingdom limited company located at Bow Bells House, 1 Bread Street, London, England, EC4M9HH. The Sub-Adviser provides sub-advisory services to the Fund, in accordance with the Fund's stated investment objectives, policies and limitations and subject to the supervision of the Fund's Board of Directors, and manages the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to it by the Investment Manager. Each of the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser is a registered investment adviser under the Advisers Act.

Each of the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aberdeen Asset Management PLC ("Aberdeen PLC"), which is the parent company of an asset management group managing approximately $306.7 billion in assets as of October 31, 2012 for a range of pension funds, financial institutions, investment trusts, unit trusts, offshore funds, charities and private clients, in addition to U.S. registered investment companies. The registered offices of Aberdeen PLC are located at 10 Queen's Terrace, Aberdeen, Scotland AB 10 1 YG. Aberdeen PLC, its affiliates and subsidiaries are referred to collectively herein as "Aberdeen." Aberdeen PLC was formed in 1983 and was first listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1991. See "Management of the Fund—The Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser."

The Fund pays the Investment Manager a fee at the annual rate of 0.65% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets (defined as net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes) up to $200 million, 0.60% of Managed Assets between $200 million and $500 million and 0.55% of Managed Assets in excess of $500 million, computed based upon Managed Assets determined weekly and payable on the first business day of each calendar month. During periods in which the Fund is utilizing leverage, the advisory fee payable to the Investment Manager will be higher than if the Fund did not utilize a leveraged capital structure because the fee is calculated as a percentage of the Managed Assets including those purchased with leverage. The Fund is currently utilizing leverage.

The Investment Manager pays the fees of the Investment Adviser. These fees are computed at the annual rate of up to 0.15% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets, computed based upon the value of the Managed Assets determined weekly and payable on the first business day of each calendar month.

The Investment Manager pays the fees of the Sub-Adviser. These fees are computed at the annual rate of 0.17% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $200 million, 0.16% of Managed Assets between $200 million and up to $500 million, and 0.15% of Managed Assets in excess of $500 million, computed weekly and payable no later than the twentieth business day following the end of each month.

Portfolio Managers    The Fund is managed by the Global Fixed Income Team. The following persons have the most significant responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio—Anthony Michael, Head of Fixed Income—Asia Pacific; Victor Rodriguez, Head of Fixed Income—Australia; Nick Bishop, Senior Investment Manager; Kevin Daly, Portfolio Manager; and Patrick O'Donnell, Portfolio Manager. See "Management of the Fund—Portfolio Management."

Administrator    Aberdeen Asset Management Inc. (the "Administrator"), 1735 Market Street, 32nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103, is the administrator for the Fund. The Administrator is a subsidiary of Aberdeen PLC and an affiliate of the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. The Fund pays the Administrator a fee at an annual rate equal to 0.125% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $1 billion, 0.10% between $1 billion and $2 billion, and 0.075% in excess of $2 billion, computed based upon the value of the Managed Assets determined at the end of each week. See "Management of the Fund—Administrator."

Sub-Administrator    State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street"), One Heritage Drive, North Quincy, MA 02171, is the sub-administrator for the Fund and certain other affiliated funds.

Custodian    State Street acts as the Fund's custodian. See "Management of the Fund—Custodian."

Transfer Agent    Computershare Trust Company, N.A., ESPP/SOP, 250 Royall Street, Canton, MA 02021 ("Computershare"), serves as the Fund's stock transfer agent and dividend paying agent. See "Management of the Fund—Transfer Agent."

Dividends and Distributions    It is the Fund's current policy to pay distributions from net investment income supplemented by net realized foreign exchange gains, net realized short-term capital gains and return of capital distributions if necessary, on a monthly basis. The Fund will also declare and pay distributions at least annually from net realized gains on investment transactions and net realized foreign exchange gains, if any. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date.

Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan    Computershare sponsors and administers a Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan (the "Plan"), which is available to shareholders. Additional information about the Plan and a brochure that includes the terms and conditions of the Plan may be obtained at www.computershare.com/buyaberdeen or by calling Computershare at 1-800-647-0584. For both purchases and reinvestment purposes, shares acquired through the Plan will be purchased in the open market at the current share price and cannot be issued directly by the Fund.

Taxation    Withholding and/or other taxes may apply in the countries in which the Fund invests, which will reduce the Fund's cash return in those countries. The Fund intends to elect, when eligible, to "pass-through" to the Fund's shareholders the ability to claim (subject to limitations) a deduction or credit for the amount of foreign income and similar taxes paid by the Fund. Tax considerations for an investor in the Fund are summarized under "Taxation." See also "Risks and Special Considerations."

SUMMARY OF FUND EXPENSES

(1)  If the Shares are sold to or through underwriters, the Prospectus Supplement will set forth any applicable sales load and the estimated offering expenses.

(2)  If you participate in the Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan sponsored and administered by Computershare, you will be subject to any fees imposed by Computershare.

(3)  The management agreement provides the Investment Manager with a fee, payable monthly, at the following annual rates: 0.65% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $200 million, 0.60% of Managed Assets between $200 million and $500 million, and 0.55% of Managed Assets in excess of $500 million.

(4)  The Fund may use leverage through borrowings. The Fund currently borrows under a credit facility.

(5)  "Other Expenses" have been estimated for the current fiscal year.

(6)  Includes an administration fee of 0.125% of managed assets attributable to the Fund's Shares. See "Management of the Fund—Administrator" for additional information.

Example

An investor would pay the following expenses on a $1,000 investment in the Fund, assuming a 5% annual return:

The above table and example are intended to assist investors in understanding the various costs and expenses directly or indirectly associated with investing in Shares of the Fund. The "Example" assumes that all dividends and other distributions are reinvested at net asset value and that the percentage amounts listed in the table above under Total Annual Operating Expenses remain the same in the years shown. The above table and example and the assumption in the example of a 5% annual return are required by regulations of the SEC that are applicable to all investment companies; the assumed 5% annual return is not a prediction of, and does not represent, the projected or actual performance of the Fund's Shares. For more complete descriptions of certain of the Fund's costs and expenses, see "Management of the Fund" and "Expenses."

The example should not be considered a representation of past or future expenses, and the Fund's actual expenses may be greater than or less than those shown. Moreover, the Fund's actual rate of return may be greater or less than the hypothetical 5% return shown in the example.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the Fund's financial performance. Information is shown for the Fund's last ten fiscal years ended October 31, 2012. Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund Share. The following information has been audited by KPMG LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund, for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2012, 2011, 2010 and 2009, and by another independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal years prior to the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, each of whose reports thereon were unqualified. The report of KPMG LLP, together with the financial statements of the Fund, are included in the Fund's October 31, 2012 Annual Report, and are incorporated by reference into the SAI, which is available upon request.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (Continued)

(a)  Based on average shares outstanding.

(b)  Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock on the opening of the first day and a sale on the closing of the last day of each period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed, for purposes of this calculation, to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund's dividend reinvestment plan. Total investment return does not reflect brokerage commissions.

(c)  Ratios calculated on the basis of income, expenses and preferred share dividends applicable to both the common and preferred shares relative to the average net assets of common shareholders. For each of the years ended October 31, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, and 2008 the ratios of net investment income before preferred stock dividends to average net assets of common shareholders were 4.50%, 5.47%, 6.02%, 6.02% and 6.13%, respectively.

(d)  Includes expenses of both preferred and common stock.

(e)  In 2009, the Fund filed a non-routine proxy to consider approval of a new sub-advisory agreement among the Fund, Investment Manager, and Sub-Adviser. The Fund and the Investment Manager agreed to each bear equal responsibility with respect to the costs of soliciting proxies associated with the non-routine item.

(f)  Asset coverage ratio is calculated by dividing net assets plus the amount of any borrowings, including Auction Market Preferred Stock, for investment purposes by the amount of any borrowings.

(g)  The total return shown above includes the impact of financial statement adjustments of the NAV per share.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (Concluded)

(a)  Based on average shares outstanding.

(b)  Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock on the opening of the first day and a sale on the day of each period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for the purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund's dividend reinvestment plan. Total investment return does not reflect brokerage commissions.

(c)  Ratios are calculated on the basis of income and expenses applicable to both the common and preferred shares relative to the average net assets of common shareholders. Ratios of net investment income before preferred stock dividends, to average net assets of common shareholders are 5.93%, 5.13%, 5.35%, 5.22% and 4.90% for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

(d)  Includes expenses of both preferred and common stock.

USE OF PROCEEDS

The Fund anticipates that it will be able to invest substantially all of the net proceeds of an offering in accordance with its investment objectives and policies within approximately 60 days after completion of the offering. Pending such investment, the Fund anticipates investing the proceeds in short-term securities issued by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities or in high quality, short-term or long-term debt obligations or money market instruments. Following the completion of an offering, the Fund may increase the amount of leverage outstanding.

THE FUND

The Fund is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act. The Fund is designed for investors seeking high current income and capital appreciation by experienced professional management of a portfolio of fixed income securities of issuers in Developed Markets, Investment Grade Developing Markets or Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets. An investment in the Fund may not be appropriate for all investors and should not be considered to be a complete investment program. An investment in the Fund involves risks that you should consider before purchasing Shares. See "Risks and Special Considerations." The Fund's principal office is located at 1735 Market Street, 32^nd Floor, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103.

DESCRIPTION OF SHARES

The Fund, which was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on June 28, 1991, is authorized to issue 400,000,000 shares, $0.001 par value per share, which are divided into two classes: 300,000,000 of shares of Common Stock and 100,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock. As of the date of this Prospectus, the Fund does not have any shares of preferred stock outstanding and the Board of Directors has no present intention to issue shares of preferred stock. All references to "stock" or "shares" herein refer to common stock, unless otherwise indicated. Each share of common stock has equal voting, dividend, distribution and liquidation rights. The Shares outstanding are, and, when issued, the Shares offered by this Prospectus will be, fully paid and non-assessable. Shares are not redeemable and have no preemptive, conversion or cumulative voting rights. The number of Shares outstanding as of January 31, 2013 was 9,279,078.

The Fund's outstanding Shares are, and, when issued, the Shares offered by this Prospectus will be, publicly held and listed and traded on the NYSE MKT. The Fund determines its net asset value on a daily basis. The following table sets forth, for the quarters indicated, the highest and lowest daily closing prices on the NYSE MKT per share of common stock, and the net asset value per share and the premium to or discount from net asset value, on the date of each of the high and low market prices. The table also sets forth the number of Shares traded on the NYSE MKT during the respective quarters.

(1)  Based on the Fund's computations.

(2)  Source: The NYSE MKT Equities.

(3)  Based on the Fund's computations.

(4)  Source: Bloomberg.

On January 31, 2013, the per Share net asset value was $13.77 and the per Share market price was $14.05, representing a 2.03% premium from such net asset value.

The Fund's Shares have traded in the market below, at and above net asset value since the commencement of the Fund's operations. However, at times, it has been the case that the Fund's Shares have traded at a discount from net asset value. The Investment Manager cannot determine the reasons why the Fund's Shares trade at a premium to or discount from net asset value, nor can the Fund predict whether its Shares will trade in the future at a premium to or discount from net asset value, or the level of any premium or discount. Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount from net asset value.

The following information regarding the Fund's authorized shares is as of December 31, 2012.

INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES

The Fund's investment objective is to provide high current income by investing primarily in fixed income securities. As a secondary investment objective, the Fund seeks capital appreciation, but only when consistent with its principal investment objective. There can be no assurance that the Fund's investment objectives will be achieved. The Fund's investment objectives are fundamental and may not be changed without the approval of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. Under the 1940 Act, a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities means the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the shares represented at a meeting at which more than 50% of the outstanding shares are represented or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares. In the event that the Fund issues preferred shares, changes in fundamental policies would also require approval by a majority of the outstanding preferred shares, voting as a separate class.

INVESTMENT POLICIES

As a non-fundamental policy, under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in debt securities. If the Fund changes its 80% policy, it will notify shareholders at least 60 days' before the change and may need to change the name of the Fund. Under normal circumstances, at least 60% of the Fund's total assets are invested in fixed income securities of issuers in Developed Markets or Investment Grade Developing Markets (as defined below), whether or not denominated in the currency of such country; provided, however, that the Fund invests at least 40% of its total assets in fixed income securities of issuers in Developed Markets. The Fund may invest up to 40% of its total assets in fixed income securities of issuers in Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets (as defined below), whether or not denominated in the currency of such country. Fixed income securities of issuers in Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets may be rated below investment grade, as described below, at the time of investment (sometimes referred to as "junk bonds"). Below investment grade securities are considered to be speculative with respect to the issuer's ability to pay interest and principal when due.

The following will be deemed to be "issuers in" a particular market:

•  governmental entities of the particular country;

•  banks, companies and other entities which are whose principal place of business is located in the particular country;

•  banks, companies and other entities which are organized under the laws of the particular country;

•  banks, companies and other entities for which the principal securities trading market is in the particular country;

•  entities which, although not located in the particular country, derive at least 50% of their revenues from that country or have at least 50% of their assets located in that country; and

•  wholly-owned subsidiaries of an entity whose principal place of business is located in the particular country, provided that the debt securities are guaranteed by a parent entity whose principal place of business is located in the particular country.

The Fund may also consider, among other criteria, the currency that securities are denominated in, or linked to, in determining whether the issuer of such securities is deemed to be an "issuer in" a particular market.

The Investment Manager manages the Fund's investments and makes investments decisions on behalf of the Fund. The Investment Adviser makes recommendations to the Investment Manager as to overall structure of the Fund's portfolio, including asset allocation advice and general advice on investment strategy relating to the Fund's overall investment objectives and the selection of and the placement of orders with brokers and dealers to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser will provide sub-advisory services to the Fund, in accordance with the Fund's stated investment objectives, policies and limitations and subject to the supervision of the Fund's Board of Directors, and will manage the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to it by the Investment Manager.

"Developed Markets" are those countries contained in the Citigroup World Government Bond Index, New Zealand, Luxembourg and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. As of October 31, 2012, securities of the following countries comprised the Citigroup World Government Bond Index: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and the United States.

"Investment Grade Developing Markets" are those countries whose sovereign debt is rated not less than Baa3 by Moody's Investor Services ("Moody's") or BBB- by Standard & Poor's, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ("S&P"), or comparably rated by another appropriate nationally or internationally recognized rating agency.

"Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets" are those countries that are not Developed Markets or Investment Grade Developing Markets (Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets, together with Investment Grade Developing Markets are referred to herein as "Developing Markets"). Securities of issuers in Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets may be rated below investment grade at the time of investment.

While the credit quality of a market is reviewed at the time of the Fund's investment in that market, classification of a market may be amended by the Investment Manager as ratings and/or circumstances change over time.

The Fund will invest in debt securities that are economically tied to a number of countries throughout the world and will, under normal circumstances, be invested in three or more different non-U.S. countries. The maximum exposure to issuers in any one Developed Market is up to 25% of the Fund's total assets. The maximum exposure to issuers in any one Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 20% of the Fund's total assets. The maximum exposure to issuers in any one Sub-Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 15% of the Fund's total assets. Such exposure limits are applied at the time of investment, although classification of a market or an issuer in a market may be amended by the Investment Manager as ratings and/or circumstances change over time.

The maximum exposure to the currency of any one Developed Market is up to 25% of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, the Fund may exceed this limitation with respect to the U.S. dollar. The maximum exposure to the currency of any one Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 20% of the Fund's total assets. The maximum exposure to the currency of any one Sub-Investment Grade Developing Market is up to 15% of the Fund's total assets. Such exposure limits are applied at the time of investment, although, as stated above, classification of a market may be amended by the Investment Manager as ratings and/or circumstances change over time.

Up to 40% of the Fund's investments (or the issuers of those investments) may be rated below investment grade at the time of investment; that is rated below Baa3 by Moody's or BBB by S&P, or comparably rated by another appropriate nationally or internationally recognized rating agency, or if unrated, judged by the Investment Manager to be of equivalent quality. All of the Fund's investments (or the issuers of those investments) must be rated, at the time of investment, B3 or better by Moody's, or B- or better by S&P, or comparably rated by another appropriate nationally or internationally recognized rating agency, or if unrated, judged by the Investment Manager to be of equivalent quality. Before purchasing an unrated security, the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser or Sub-Adviser analyze the creditworthiness of the issuer of the security and of any financial institution or other party responsible for payments on the security in order to assign a rating to the security. In the event that a security receives different ratings from different rating agencies (Fitch, Moody's and S&P), the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser or Sub-Adviser will apply the highest rating received from the rating agencies in determining compliance with these guidelines. While the credit quality of each of the Fund's investments is evaluated at the time of investment, the credit quality of the Fund's portfolio may be reviewed from time to time and adjusted accordingly.

The Investment Manager, Investment Adviser and Sub-Adviser consider external credit assessments available from international rating agencies such as Moody's and S&P, as well as any reports on the issuer which may be available from brokers or other sources. In some Developing Markets, where issues are often unrated or are at the lower end of the credit risk spectrum, the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser believe that opportunities exist for skilled analysts to add value through extensive company research and detailed credit assessment.

Low-credit debt can sometimes become equity. Due to the conversion of convertible notes and warrants, the Fund may from time to time become an (often) involuntary holder of equities until such stock can be sold as and when an optimal price can be achieved, given market conditions. It may be in the interests of shareholders for the Fund to hold such stock for short term periods.

Similarly, distressed companies can sometimes restructure via debt-for-equity swaps in order to stay solvent and viable. In this case, the investor becomes an involuntary equity holder and, once again, it may be in the best interests of shareholders that the Fund hold such securities for short periods of time, especially in extreme market conditions, until optimal prices can be obtained.

The Fund currently utilizes and in the future expects to continue to utilize leverage through borrowings or through other transactions, such as reverse repurchase agreements, which have the effect of leverage. The Fund may also utilize leverage through the issuance of debt securities or preferred stock, although it has no current intention to do so. The Fund may use leverage up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount obtained through leverage). The Fund generally will not utilize leverage if it anticipates that the Fund's leveraged capital structure would result in a lower return to shareholders than that obtainable over time with an unleveraged capital structure. Use of leverage creates an opportunity for increased income and capital appreciation for shareholders but, at the same time, creates special risks, and there can be no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful during any period in which it is employed. See "Use of Leverage."

Consistent with its investment objectives, the Fund may invest in a broad array of financial instruments and securities in which the value of the instrument or security is "derived" from the performance of an underlying asset or a "benchmark" such as a security index, an interest rate or a foreign currency ("derivatives"). The Fund may use derivatives to manage currency risk, credit risk and interest rate risk and to replicate or as a substitute for physical securities. The Fund may use interest rate swaps to hedge the Fund's liability with respect to its leverage. There is no limit on the amount of interest rate swap transactions that may be entered into by the Fund. Derivative debt securities that replicate, or substitute for, the currency of a particular country will be counted toward the limitations applicable with respect to issuers in that country. The Fund may invest in over-the-counter or exchange traded derivatives. The Fund may invest in derivatives up to the limits allowed under the 1940 Act.

The Fund may invest in securities issued by investment companies registered as such under the 1940 Act and unregistered, private funds (each, an "acquired company"), subject to the limitations below (which are to be applied immediately after the acquisition of such securities).

The Fund may not acquire securities issued by an acquired company:

•  if the value of such securities exceeds 3% of the total outstanding voting stock of the acquired company;

•  if the aggregate value of such securities would exceed 5% of the value of the total assets of the Fund; or

•  if the aggregate value of such securities, together with all other acquired company securities in the Fund's portfolio, would exceed 10% of the value of the total assets of the Fund.

During periods when, in the Investment Manager's judgment, economic conditions warrant, or to meet liquidity or distribution requirements, the Fund may invest without limit in U.S. Government securities and short-term debt obligations of U.S. banks and corporations rated not less than Aa or Prime-2 by Moody's or AA or A-2 by S&P at the time of purchase for temporary defensive purposes. Although Prime-2 and A-2 ratings denote issuers with a strong (Moody's) or satisfactory (S&P) ability to repay short-term debt in a timely manner, the relative degree of safety is not as high as the very highest rating categories. In addition, the Fund may enter into repurchase agreements and lending agreements involving these securities.

As a general matter and subject to applicable law, if a percentage limitation is satisfied at the time of investment, a later increase or decrease in such percentage resulting from a change in the value of the Fund's investments will not constitute a violation of such limitation, except that any borrowing by the Fund that exceeds the fundamental investment limitations stated below must be reduced to meet such limitations within the period required by the 1940 Act (currently three days). Otherwise, the Fund may continue to hold a security even though it causes the Fund to exceed a percentage limitation because of fluctuation in the value of the Fund's assets.

Certain investment policies that the Fund has adopted are "fundamental" policies; that is, these policies may only be changed upon the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. These fundamental policies are described in the section captioned "Investment Restrictions." Unless otherwise indicated, the investment policies described above are not "fundamental" and may be changed by the Fund at any time.

PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

The principal types of debt securities in which the Fund is permitted to invest include those described below. The list is not exclusive, but is indicative of the kinds of securities which the Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions permit it to buy.

Debt Securities

Local Currency Sovereign and Quasi-Sovereign Bonds. The Fund is permitted to invest in securities issued or guaranteed by governmental entities, including sovereign and quasi-sovereign entities, whether or not denominated in the currency of the country where such entity is located. The available maturities for these types of securities vary from country to country.

Commercial Banks. The Fund may also invest in securities issued by banks, whether or not denominated in the currency of the country where such bank is located.

U.S. Dollar-Denominated Debt Securities. The Fund is also permitted to invest in U.S. dollar-denominated debt securities in order to gain exposure to certain global debt markets without exposing the Fund to local currency risk. Such debt securities may be issued by issuers in Developed Markets, Investment Grade Developing Markets, or Sub-Investment Grade Developing Markets and may be issued and/or registered in the United States. U.S. dollar-denominated debt securities are subject to credit risk relating primarily to the issuer of the bond and liquidity risk relating to the maintenance of a sufficiently liquid market for the specific issue. Such securities are also affected by movements in U.S. interest rates.

Brady Bonds. The Fund may invest in developing market governmental debt obligations commonly referred to as "Brady Bonds." Brady Bonds are debt securities, generally denominated in U.S. dollars, issued under the framework of the "Brady Plan," an initiative announced by former U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor nations to restructure their outstanding external commercial bank indebtedness.

The Brady Plan contemplates, among other things, the debtor nation's adoption of certain economic reforms and the exchange of commercial bank debt for newly issued bonds. Brady Bonds may also be issued in respect of new money being advanced by existing lenders in connection with the debt restructuring. In restructuring its external debt under the Brady Plan framework, a debtor nation negotiates with its existing bank lenders as well as The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (the "World Bank") or the International Monetary Fund (the "IMF"). The World Bank or IMF supports the restructuring by providing funds pursuant to loan agreements or other arrangements that enable the debtor nation to collateralize the new Brady Bonds or to replenish reserves used to reduce outstanding bank debt. Under these loan agreements with the World Bank or IMF, debtor nations have been required to agree to implement certain domestic monetary and fiscal reforms. The Brady Plan sets forth only general guiding principles for economic reform and debt reduction, emphasizing that solutions must be negotiated on a case-by-case basis between debtor nations and their creditors.

Agreements implemented under the Brady Plan are designed to achieve debt and debt-service reduction through specific options negotiated by a debtor nation with its creditors. As a result, each country offers different financial packages. Options have included the exchange of outstanding commercial bank debt for bonds issued at 100% of face value of such debt, bonds issued at a discount of face value of such debt, and bonds bearing an interest rate that increases over time and the advancement of the new money for bonds. The principal of certain Brady Bonds has been collateralized by U.S. Treasury zero coupon bonds with a maturity equal to the final maturity of the Brady Bonds. Collateral purchases are financed by the IMF, World Bank and the debtor nation's reserves. Interest payments may also be collateralized in part in various ways.

Brady Bonds may be collateralized or uncollateralized, are issued in various currencies (but primarily the U.S. dollar) and are actively traded in the over-the-counter secondary markets. U.S. dollar-denominated, collateralized Brady Bonds, which may be fixed rate bonds or floating-rate bonds, are generally collateralized in full as to principal by U.S. Treasury zero coupon bonds having the same maturity as the bonds. Brady Bonds issued to date are generally collateralized by U.S. Treasury zero-coupon bonds to ensure principal, and generally have maturities of between 15 and 30 years from the date of issuance. The following countries have issued Brady Bonds: Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, the Ivory Coast, Jordan,

Mexico, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, Uruguay, Venezuela and Vietnam. In addition, other countries may announce plans to issue Brady Bonds. The Fund may invest in Brady Bonds of countries that have been issued to date, as well as those which my be issued in the future.

Brady Bonds are often viewed as having three or four valuation components: (i) the collateralized repayment of principal at final maturity; (ii) the collateralized interest payments; (iii) the uncollateralized interest payment; and (iv) any uncollateralized interest and principal at maturity (these uncollateralized amounts constitute the "residual risk"). In light of the residual risk of Brady Bonds and, among other factors, the history of defaults with respect to commercial bank loans by public and private entities of countries issuing Brady Bonds, investments in Brady Bonds can be viewed as speculative.

Eurobonds. The Fund may invest in Eurobonds, which are often longer maturity (up to 30 years) securities, registered in London or globally, that are generally issued in U.S. dollars, but are increasingly issued in euros and occasionally in yen. Eurobonds are typically issued in bearer form, carry a fixed or floating rate of interest, and amortize principal through a bullet payment with semiannual interest payments in the currency in which the bond was issued.

Supranational Debt Obligations. The Fund may invest in debt issued by supranational entities. Supranational entities are entities constituted by the national governments of several countries to promote economic development, such as the World Bank, the IMF, the European Investment Bank and the Asian Development Bank. Obligations of these entities are supported by appropriated but unpaid commitments of their member countries, and there can be no assurances that these commitments will be undertaken or met in the future.

Companies. The Fund is permitted to invest in publicly-traded notes and debentures or bills of exchange issued or guaranteed as to the payment of principal and interest by companies domiciled in a Developed Market, an Investment Grade Developing Market or a Sub-Investment Grade Developing Market.

U.S. Securities

Government. The Fund is permitted to invest in U.S. government securities, including obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities, some of which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury (such as direct pass-through certificates of the Government National Mortgage Association), some of which are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. government (such as obligations of Federal Home Loan Banks), and some of which are backed only by the credit of the issuer itself. Government obligations do not generally involve the credit risks associated with other types of interest bearing securities, although, as a result, the yields available from U.S. government obligations are generally lower than the yields available from corporate interest bearing securities. Like other interest bearing securities, however, the value of Government obligations changes as interest rates fluctuate.

Corporations and Banks. The Fund is permitted to invest for defensive and other temporary purposes in U.S. corporate debt instruments rated at the time of investment Aa or better by Moody's or AA or better by S&P, finance company and corporate commercial paper, and other short-term obligations, in each case rated at the time of investment Prime-2 or better by Moody's or A-2 or better by S&P. The Fund is also permitted to invest in obligations of U.S. Federal or state chartered banks and bank holding companies rated at the time of investment Aa or better by Moody's or AA or better by S&P (including certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances and other short-term obligations).

Derivatives

With respect to all of its portfolio the Fund will invest in derivatives for two main purposes: (1) to modify interest rate risk, modify credit risk and adjust currency risk within the portfolio, and (2) to enable the Fund to

replicate or substitute for a particular security in order to gain access to a particular global market or security, where either the physical security is judged by the Investment Manager to be too expensive, or the Investment Manager believes there is an insufficient supply of the particular security or no security fitting the precise needs of the Fund exists. The types of derivatives which may be used include, but are not limited to, futures, options, forwards, forwards that can only be settled in U.S. dollars, swaps, and securities with structured cash flows, whether traded on an exchange or over-the-counter, that have as their underlying security reference to a fixed income security or currency. In general, derivatives will not be utilized to leverage the Fund.

Investment in fixed income securities may at certain times be more efficiently achieved using derivative securities to replicate physical securities. These types of derivatives carry identical market price risks to the equivalent physical securities but provide a number of transactional benefits. For example, by using derivatives, the Fund may be able to implement investment decisions at lower costs, increase the after-tax yield, obtain prices that are not available in the underlying cash market, or settle in U.S. dollars. In less developed markets, liquidity and credit quality can be enhanced and transaction costs reduced by using derivatives rather than the underlying securities. In certain circumstances, due to lack of available direct investment opportunity or government regulations, the only means of gaining exposure to particular countries is through derivatives.

The derivatives used for adjusting currency exposures or replicating underlying securities are usually over-the-counter ("OTC") securities. OTC securities carry credit risk associated with the counterparty institution. See "Risk Factors and Special Considerations—Use of Derivatives." To manage this risk, the Fund will only use counterparty institutions rated A- or better by a recognized international rating agency. Only up to 10% of total assets may be put at risk in derivatives transactions with any single counterparty (aggregate interest rate, credit and currency derivatives exposure). A maximum of 10% of total assets may be at risk in currency-linked notes.

The types of derivatives used by the Fund and the techniques employed may change over time as new derivatives and strategies are developed or regulatory changes occur. The Fund will not use derivatives where it would contravene the guidelines set by the lending banks for the Fund's bank loan.

In general, derivatives will not be utilized to leverage the Fund, although they may be used to hedge the interest rate risk associated with the Fund's outstanding leverage. The Fund may use interest rate swaps to hedge the Fund's liability with respect to its bank loan. At present, the Fund has been authorized by its Board of Directors to hedge up to 100% of the Fund's liability with respect to its bank loan. See "Portfolio Securities—Derivative Securities—Swaps" and "Risk Factors and Special Considerations—Use of Derivatives."

Forward Currency Contracts. The Fund may enter into forward currency contracts. A forward currency contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract.

The cost to the Fund of engaging in forward currency contracts will vary with factors such as the length of the contract period and the market conditions then prevailing. Because forward currency contracts are usually conducted on a principal basis, no fees or commissions are involved, although the price charged in the transaction includes a dealer's markup. The use of forward currency contracts in this manner is intended to fix a rate of exchange that can be achieved at a certain time in the future.

Foreign Currency Options. The Fund may purchase and write options on foreign currencies for hedging and non-hedging purposes to achieve objectives similar to those achieved utilizing foreign currency futures or forward contracts. The potential benefit to the Fund derived from purchases of foreign currency options will be reduced by the amount of the premium and related transaction costs. In addition, where currency exchange rates do not move in the expected direction, the Fund could sustain losses on transactions in foreign currency options. Where currency exchange rates move in the expected direction, but not to the extent anticipated, the Fund could still sustain losses on transactions in foreign currency options.

Futures Contracts. The Fund may enter into futures contracts in U.S. domestic markets or on exchanges located outside the United States for both hedging and non-hedging purposes. Foreign markets may offer advantages such as trading opportunities or arbitrage possibilities not available in the United States. Foreign markets, however, may have greater risk potential than domestic markets. For example, some foreign exchanges are principal markets so that no common clearing facility exists and an investor may look only to the broker for performance of the contract. In addition, any profits the Fund might realize in trading could be eliminated by adverse changes in the exchange rate, or the Fund could incur losses as a result of those changes. Transactions on foreign exchanges may include both underlying assets which are traded on U.S. commodities exchanges and those which are not. Unlike trading on U.S. exchanges, trading on foreign commodities exchanges is not regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC").

Engaging in these transactions involves risk of loss to the Fund which could adversely affect the value of the Fund's net assets. No assurance can be given that a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Many futures exchanges and boards of trade limit the amount of fluctuation permitted in futures contract prices during a single trading day. Once the daily limit has been reached in a particular contract, no trades may be made that day at a price beyond that limit or trading may be suspended for specified periods during the trading day. Futures contract prices could move to the limit for several consecutive trading days with little or no trading, thereby preventing prompt liquidation of futures positions and potentially subjecting the Fund to substantial losses.

Successful use of futures by the Fund also is subject to the Advisers' ability to predict correctly movements in the direction of the relevant market, and, to the extent the transaction is entered into for hedging purposes, to ascertain the appropriate correlation between the transaction being hedged and the price movements of the futures contract.

The Fund also may purchase and write options to buy or sell those futures contracts in which it may invest. Such investment strategies will be used for hedging purposes and for non-hedging purposes, subject to applicable law. An option on a futures contract provides the holder with the right to enter into a "long" position in the underlying futures contract, in the case of a call option, or a "short" position in the underlying futures contract, in the case of a put option, at a fixed exercise price up to a stated expiration date or, in the case of certain options, on such date. Upon exercise of the option by the holder, the contract market clearinghouse establishes a corresponding short position for the writer of the option, in the case of a call option, or a corresponding long position in the case of a put option. In the event that an option is exercised, the parties will be subject to all the risks associated with the trading of futures contracts, such as payment of initial and variation margin deposits. In addition, the writer of an option on a futures contract, unlike the holder, is subject to initial and variation margin requirements on the option position.

A position in an option on a futures contract may be terminated by the purchaser or seller prior to expiration by effecting an offsetting purchase or sale transaction, subject to the continued availability of a liquid secondary market, which is the purchase or sale of an option of the same type (i.e., the same exercise price and expiration date) as the option previously purchased or sold. The difference between the premiums paid and received represents the Fund's profit or loss on the transaction.

Options on futures contracts that are written or purchased by the Fund on U.S. exchanges are traded on the same contract market as the underlying futures contract, and, like futures contracts, are subject to regulation by the CFTC and the performance guarantee of the exchange clearinghouse.

Effective December 31, 2012, the CFTC adopted certain regulatory changes that subject registered investment companies and advisers to registered investment companies to regulation by the CFTC if a fund invests more than a prescribed level of its liquidation value in CFTC-registered futures, options and swaps, or if the fund markets itself as providing investment exposure to such instruments. To the extent the Fund uses

CFTC-regulated futures, options and swaps, it intends to do so below such prescribed levels and will not market itself as a "commodity pool" or a vehicle for trading such instruments. Accordingly, the Investment Manager has claimed an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" under the Commodity Exchange Act ("CEA") pursuant to Rule 4.5 under the CEA with respect to the Fund. The Investment Manager is not, therefore, subject to registration or regulation as a "commodity pool operator" under the CEA in respect of the Fund.

Swaps. The Fund may enter into interest rate swaps, currency swaps, credit default swaps and other types of available swap agreements, including swaps on securities, financial assets and indices, and related types of derivatives, such as caps, collars and floors. A swap is an agreement between two parties pursuant to which each party agrees to make one or more payments to the other on regularly scheduled dates over a stated term, based on different interest rates, currency exchange rates, security or financial asset prices, the prices or rates of other types of financial instruments or assets or the levels of specified indices. Under a typical swap, one party may agree to pay a fixed rate or a floating rate determined by reference to a specified instrument, rate or index, multiplied in each case by a specified amount (the "notional amount"), while the other party agrees to pay an amount equal to a different floating rate multiplied by the same notional amount. On each payment date, the obligations of parties are netted, with only the net amount paid by one party to the other. All swap agreements entered into by the Fund with the same counterparty are generally governed by a single master agreement, which provides for the netting of all amounts owed by the parties under the agreement upon the occurrence of an event of default, thereby reducing the credit risk to which such party is exposed.

Swap agreements are typically individually negotiated and structured to provide exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements may be entered into for hedging or non-hedging purposes and, therefore, may increase or decrease the Fund's exposure to the underlying instrument, rate, asset or index. Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. The Fund is not limited to any particular form or variety of swap agreement if the Adviser determines it is consistent with the Fund's investment objective and policies.

Private Placements

Certain debt securities purchased by the Fund may have been placed privately. These securities, which include debt securities offered in the Euromarkets, are somewhat less liquid than securities which are widely traded by the public and there may be contractual restrictions on their resale to the public. Therefore, although these securities may be resold in privately negotiated transactions, the prices realized from such sales may be less than what might have been realized on a more active public trading market.

Other Investment Companies

Subject to the limitations set forth in Section 12(d) of the 1940 Act, the Fund may invest in securities issued by other investment companies that invest primarily in fixed-income securities. As a shareholder of another investment company, the Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the other investment company's expenses, including advisory fees. These expenses would be in addition to the expenses, including advisory fees, that the Fund bears in connection with its own operations.

Repurchase and Securities Lending Agreements

The Fund is permitted to invest in repurchase agreements with banks and broker-dealers. A repurchase agreement is a contract under which the Fund acquires a security for a relatively short period (usually no more than one week) subject to the obligations of the seller to repurchase and the Fund to resell such security at a fixed time and price (representing the Fund's cost plus interest). The Investment Manager monitors the value of such securities daily to determine that the value equals or exceeds the repurchase price. Under the 1940 Act,

repurchase agreements are considered to be loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. Repurchase agreements may involve risks in the event of default or insolvency of the seller, including possible delays or restrictions upon the Fund's ability to dispose of the underlying securities. The Fund will enter into repurchase agreements only with parties who meet creditworthiness standards approved by the Fund's Board of Directors, i.e., banks or broker-dealers which have been determined by the Investment Manager to present no serious risk of becoming involved in bankruptcy proceedings within the time frame contemplated by the repurchase transaction.

The Fund may also lend to banks and broker-dealers portfolio securities with an aggregate market value of up to one-third of its total assets when it deems advisable. Any such loans must be secured by collateral (consisting of any combination of cash, U.S. Government securities, irrevocable letters of credit or other high-quality debt securities) in an amount at least equal (on a daily marked-to-market basis) to the current market value of the securities loaned. The Fund may terminate the loans at any time and obtain the return of the securities. The Fund will continue to receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities and will continue to have voting rights with respect to the securities. In connection with the lending of its portfolio securities, the Fund is exposed to the risk of delay in recovery of the securities loaned or possible loss of right in the collateral should the borrower become insolvent.

The Fund will enter into repurchase agreements and securities lending agreements only with parties such as banks and broker-dealers who meet creditworthiness standards approved by the Fund's Board of Directors. Issuers of irrevocable letters of credit used as collateral for securities lending agreements must meet the same or similar standards.

Firm Commitment Agreements and When-Issued Securities

The Fund may purchase debt securities on a firm commitment or when-issued basis. New issues of certain debt securities are often offered on a when-issued basis; that is, the payment obligation and the interest rate are fixed at the time the buyer enters into the commitment, but delivery and payment for the securities normally take place after the date of the commitment to purchase. Firm commitment agreements call for the purchase of securities at an agreed-upon price on a specified future date. The transactions are entered into in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund and not for purposes of leveraging the Fund's assets. The Fund will not earn any income on these securities prior to delivery. The value of when-issued securities and firm commitment agreements may vary prior to and after delivery depending on market conditions and changes in interest rate levels. There is a risk that a party with whom the Fund has entered into such transactions will not perform its commitment, which could result in a gain or loss to the Fund. The Fund will maintain in a segregated account with its custodian cash or high-quality debt securities equal (on a daily marked-to-market basis) to the amount of its commitment to purchase the securities on a when-issued or firm commitment basis.

INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS

The following restrictions are fundamental policies, which cannot be changed without the approval of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. A majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities means the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the shares represented at a meeting at which more than 50% of the outstanding shares are represented or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares. In the event that the Fund issues preferred shares, changes in investment restrictions would also require approval by a majority of the outstanding preferred shares, voting as a separate class. If a percentage restriction on investment or use of assets set forth below is adhered to at the time a transaction is effected, later changes in a percentage resulting from changing values will not be considered a violation.

The Fund will not:

1. Issue senior securities except (i) insofar as the Fund may be deemed to have issued a senior security in connection with any repurchase or securities lending agreement or any borrowing permitted by these investment restrictions, and (ii) that the Fund may issue one or more series of a class of preferred shares pursuant to its Articles of Amendment and Restatement.

2. Borrow money, except as permitted under, or to the extent not prohibited by, the 1940 Act, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

3. "Concentrate" its investments in a particular industry or group of industries, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction from time to time, and further provided that this limitation will not apply to the Fund's investments in, among other things, (i) securities of other investment companies; (ii) securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities; or (iii) repurchase agreements (collateralized by the instruments described in clause (ii)).

4. Make loans except through the purchase of debt obligations and the entering into of repurchase and securities lending agreements in accordance with the Fund's investment objectives and policies.

5. Act as an underwriter of other issuer's securities (except to the extent the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the sale of securities in the Fund's investment portfolio).

6. (i) Purchase or sell real estate, except that it may purchase and sell mortgage-backed securities, debt securities issued by real estate investment trusts, and debt securities of companies which deal in real estate or interests therein, or (ii) purchase or sell commodities (other than transactions in foreign currencies and forward currency contracts or derivatives in accordance with the Fund's investment objectives and policies).

USE OF LEVERAGE

As provided in the 1940 Act and subject to certain exceptions, the Fund may issue debt with the condition that immediately after issuance the value of its total assets, less certain ordinary course liabilities, exceeds 300% of the amount of the debt outstanding.

Thus, as noted above, the Fund may use leverage in the form of borrowings in an amount up to 33 1/3% of the Fund's total assets (including the proceeds of such leverage). The Fund seeks a leverage ratio, based on a variety of factors including market conditions and the Investment Manager's market outlook, where the rate of return, net of applicable Fund expenses, on the Fund's investment portfolio investments purchased with leverage exceeds the costs associated with such leverage.

At January 31, 2013, the Fund had loans outstanding under the Fund's credit agreement with The Bank of Nova Scotia of $40,000,000. At January 31, 2013, the Fund had borrowings under the credit agreement as follows:

The Fund's borrowings under its credit facility at January 31, 2013 equal approximately 24% of the Fund's total assets (including the proceeds of such leverage). The Fund's asset coverage ratio as of January 31, 2013 was 419%. See "Risks and Special Considerations—Leverage Risk" for a brief description of the Fund's credit agreement with The Bank of Nova Scotia.

Assuming the utilization of leverage in the amount of 25% of the Fund's total assets and an annual interest rate of 1.10% payable on such leverage based on market rates as of the date of this prospectus, the additional

income that the Fund must earn (net of expenses) in order to cover such leverage is approximately $462,884. Actual costs of leverage may be higher or lower than that assumed in the previous example.

Following the completion of an offering, the Fund may increase the amount of leverage outstanding. The Fund may engage in additional borrowings in order to maintain the Fund's desired leverage ratio. Leverage creates a greater risk of loss, as well as a potential for more gain, for the common stock than if leverage were not used. Interest on borrowings may be at a fixed or floating rate, and the interest at a floating rate generally will be based on short-term rates. The costs associated with the Fund's use of leverage, including the issuance of such leverage and the payment of dividends or interest on such leverage, will be borne entirely by the holders of common stock. As long as the rate of return, net of applicable Fund expenses, on the Fund's investment portfolio investments purchased with leverage exceeds the costs associated with such leverage, the Fund will generate more return or income than will be needed to pay such costs. In this event, the excess will be available to pay higher dividends to holders of common stock. Conversely, if the Fund's return on such assets is less than the cost of leverage and other Fund expenses, the return to the holders of the common stock will diminish. To the extent that the Fund uses leverage, the net asset value and market price of the common stock and the yield to holders of common stock will be more volatile. The Fund's leveraging strategy may not be successful. See "Risks and Special Considerations—Leverage Risk."

The following table is designed to illustrate the effect on the return to a holder of the Fund's common stock of leverage in the amount of approximately 25% of the Fund's total assets, assuming hypothetical annual returns of the Fund's investment portfolio of minus 10% to plus 10%. As the table shows, leverage generally increases the return to holders of common stock when portfolio return is positive and greater than the cost of leverage and decreases the return when the portfolio return is negative or less than the cost of leverage. The figures appearing in the table are hypothetical and actual returns may be greater or less than those appearing in the table.

RISKS AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

An investment in the Fund involves certain risks and considerations, including risks and considerations not typically associated with funds that invest only in U.S. securities. These risks and considerations are described below.

General

The Fund is a non-diversified, closed-end investment company designed primarily as a long-term investment and not as a trading tool. The Fund invests generally in a portfolio of fixed income securities. An investment in the Fund's Common Stock may be speculative and involves a high degree of risk. The Fund should not be considered a complete investment program. Due to the uncertainty in all investments, there can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.

Investment and Market Risk

An investment in Shares is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of the entire principal amount that you invest. Your investment in Shares represents an indirect investment in the securities owned by the Fund. The value of these securities, like other market investments, may move up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, and these fluctuations are likely to have a greater impact on the value of the Shares during periods in which the Fund utilizes a leveraged capital structure. If the current global economic downturn continues into a prolonged recession or deteriorates further, the ability of issuers of the corporate fixed-income securities and other securities in which the Fund invests to service their obligations could be materially and adversely affected.

The value of the securities in which the Fund invests will affect the value of the Shares. Your Shares at any point in time may be worth less than your original investment, even after taking into account the reinvestment of Fund dividends and distributions.

Credit Risk

Investments in debt securities expose the Fund to credit risk. Credit risk is the risk that one or more of the Fund's investments in debt securities or other instruments will decline in price, or fail to pay interest, liquidation value or principal when due, because the issuer of the obligation or the issuer of a reference security experiences an actual or perceived decline in its financial status. Credit risk is influenced by changes in general economic and political conditions and changes in the financial condition of the issuers. During periods of economic downturn or rising interest rates, issuers of securities with a low credit rating may experience financial weakness that could affect their ability to make payments of interest and principal.

Adverse publicity and investor perceptions, whether or not based on fundamental analysis, may also decrease the value and liquidity of securities with low credit ratings, especially in markets characterized by a low volume of trading.

Interest Rate Risk

Generally, when market interest rates rise, the prices of debt obligations fall, and vice versa. Interest rate risk is the risk that debt obligations and other instruments in the Fund's portfolio will decline in value because of increases in market interest rates. This risk may be particularly acute because market interest rates are currently at historically low levels. The prices of long-term debt obligations generally fluctuate more than prices of short-term debt obligations as interest rates change. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended due to slower than expected payments. This may lock in a below market yield, increase the security's duration and reduce the security's value. The Fund's use of leverage will tend to increase interest rate risk.

Investments in floating rate debt instruments, although generally less sensitive to interest rate changes than longer duration fixed rate instruments, may nevertheless decline in value in response to rising interest rates if, for example, the rates at which they pay interest do not rise as much, or as quickly, as market interest rates in general. Conversely, floating rate instruments will not generally increase in value if interest rates decline. Inverse floating rate debt securities may also exhibit greater price volatility than a fixed rate debt obligation with similar credit quality. To the extent the Fund holds floating rate instruments, a decrease (or, in the case of inverse floating rate securities, an increase) in market interest rates will adversely affect the income received from such securities and the net asset value of the Fund's common shares.

Foreign Securities Risk

Investing in foreign securities involves certain special considerations that are not typically associated with investments in the securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and may have policies that are not comparable to those of domestic issuers. As a result, there may be less information available about foreign issuers than about domestic issuers. Securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of securities markets, brokers and issuers than in the United States. In addition, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political and social instability, or diplomatic developments which could affect the value of investments in those countries. The costs of investing in foreign countries frequently are higher than the costs of investing in the United States. Although the Investment Manager endeavors to achieve the most

favorable execution costs in portfolio transactions, trading costs in non-U.S. securities markets are generally higher than trading costs in the United States.

Investments in securities of foreign issuers often will be denominated in foreign currencies. Accordingly, the value of the Fund's assets, as measured in U.S. dollars, may be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in currency exchange rates and in exchange control regulations. The Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between various currencies. See "—Foreign Currency Risk."

The Fund generally holds its foreign securities and cash in foreign banks and securities depositories approved by State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Fund's Foreign Custody Manager (as that term is defined in Rule 17f-5 under the 1940 Act). Some foreign banks and securities depositories may be recently organized or new to the foreign custody business. There may be limited or no regulatory oversight over their operations. Also, the laws of certain countries may put limits on the Fund's ability to recover its assets if a foreign bank, depository or issuer of a security, or any of their agents, goes bankrupt. In addition, it is often more expensive for the Fund to buy, sell and hold securities in certain foreign markets than in the United States. The increased expense of investing in foreign markets reduces the amount the Fund can earn on its investments and typically results in a higher operating expense ratio for the Fund than for investment companies invested only in the United States.

Certain foreign governments levy withholding or other taxes on dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion of foreign withholding taxes will reduce the income received from investments in such countries.

From time to time, the Fund may have invested in certain sovereign debt obligations that are issued by, or certain companies that operate in or have dealings with, countries that become subject to sanctions or embargoes imposed by the U.S. government and the United Nations and/or countries identified by the U.S. government as state sponsors of terrorism. Investments in such countries may be adversely affected because, for example, the credit rating of the sovereign debt security may be lowered due to the country's instability or unreliability or the company may suffer damage to its reputation if it is identified as a company which operates in, or has dealings with, such countries. As an investor in such companies, the Fund will be indirectly subject to those risks.

Developing Markets Risk

Investing in the securities of issuers located in Developing Market countries (and to a certain extent non-U.S. Developed Market countries) involves special considerations not typically associated with investing in the securities of U.S. issuers and other Developed Market issuers, including heightened risks of expropriation and/or nationalization, armed conflict, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on transfers of assets, lack of uniform accounting and auditing standards, less publicly available financial and other information and potential difficulties in enforcing contractual obligations.

The economies of individual Developing Market countries may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross domestic product, rate of inflation, currency depreciation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. Governments of many Developing Market countries have exercised and continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector. In some cases, the government owns or controls many companies, including some of the largest in the country.

Accordingly, government actions could have a significant effect on economic conditions in a Developing Market country and on market conditions, prices and yields of securities in the Fund's portfolio. Moreover, the economies of Developing Market countries generally are heavily dependent upon international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be adversely affected by trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries

with which they trade. These economies also have been and may continue to be adversely affected by economic conditions in the countries with which they trade. Many Developing Market economies are considered to be more politically volatile than the Developed Markets. Investments in securities of issuers in countries other than the United States may involve greater political risk, including in some countries, the possibility of nationalization of assets, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, restrictions on repatriation, and the establishment of foreign exchange controls, political changes, government regulation, overburdened and obsolete or unseasoned financial systems, environmental problems, less developed legal systems, economic or social instability or diplomatic developments (including war) which could affect adversely the economies of such countries or the value of the Fund's investments in those countries. Central authorities also tend to exercise a high degree of control over the economies and in many cases have ownership over core productive assets.

The legal systems in many Developing Market countries are less developed than those in more developed countries, with the administration of laws and regulations often subject to considerable discretion. Non-U.S. markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. or other Developed Markets. It also may be difficult to obtain and enforce a judgment in a court outside of the United States.

Adequate public information on non-U.S. issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States or other Developed Market countries.

Due to their strong reliance on international trade, most Developing Market economies tend to be sensitive both to economic changes in their own region and to changes affecting their major trading partners. These include changes in growth, inflation, foreign exchange rates, current account positions, government policies, taxation and tariffs.

Investments in Developing Market countries may entail purchasing securities issued by or on behalf of entities that are insolvent, bankrupt, in default or otherwise engaged in an attempt to reorganize or reschedule their obligations or in entities that have little or no proven credit rating or credit history. In any such case, the issuer's poor or deteriorating financial condition may increase the likelihood that the Fund will experience losses or diminution in available gains due to bankruptcy, insolvency or fraud.

Investments in Developing Market countries may also be exposed to an extra degree of custodial and/or market risk, especially where the securities purchased are not traded on an official exchange or where ownership records regarding the securities are maintained by an unregulated entity (or even the issuer itself).

Foreign Currency Risk

The Fund may invest all of its assets in debt securities which are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Currency exchange rates can fluctuate significantly over short periods and can be subject to unpredictable changes based on a variety of factors including political developments and currency controls by governments. A change in the value of a currency in which a security is denominated against the U.S. dollar will generally result in a change in the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's assets. If the exchange rate for a non-U.S. currency declines compared to the U.S. dollar, the Fund's NAV would decline. In addition, although much of the Fund's income will be received or realized in non-U.S. currencies, the Fund is required to compute and distribute its income in U.S. dollars. Therefore, for example, if the exchange rate for a non-U.S. currency declines after the Fund's income has been accrued and translated into U.S. dollars, but before the income has been received or converted into U.S. dollars, the Fund could be required to liquidate securities to make distributions. Similarly, if the exchange rate declines between the time the Fund incurs expenses in U.S. dollars and the time expenses are paid, the amount of non-U.S. currency required to be converted into U.S. dollars in order to pay such U.S. dollar expenses will be greater than the non-U.S. currency equivalent of the expenses at the time they were incurred.

The currencies of Developing Markets, in particular, have experienced periods of steady declines or even sudden devaluations relative to the U.S. dollar. Some Developing Market currencies may not be internationally traded or may be subject to strict controls by local governments, resulting in undervalued or overvalued currencies. Some Developing Markets have experienced balance of payment deficits and shortages in foreign exchange reserves. Governments have responded by restricting currency conversions. Future restrictive exchange controls could prevent or restrict a company's ability to make dividend or interest payments in the original currency of an obligation (often U.S. dollars). In addition, even though the currencies of some Developing Markets may be convertible into U.S. dollars, the conversion rates may be artificial to their actual market values.

Sovereign Debt Obligations Risk

Investments in Developing Market countries' government debt obligations involve special risks. Certain Developing Market countries have historically experienced, and may continue to experience, high rates of inflation, high interest rates, exchange rate fluctuations, large amounts of external debt, balance of payments and trade difficulties and extreme poverty and unemployment. The issuer or governmental authority that controls the repayment of a Developing Market country's debt may not be able or willing to repay the principal and/or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt. A debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and interest due in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation and, in the case of a government debtor, the extent of its foreign reserves, the availability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the government debtor's policy towards the International Monetary Fund and the political constraints to which a government debtor may be subject. Government debtors may default on their debt and may also be dependent on expected disbursements from foreign governments, multilateral agencies and others abroad to reduce principal and interest arrearages on their debt. The commitment on the part of these governments, agencies and others to make such disbursements may be conditioned on a debtor's implementation of economic reforms and/or economic performance and the timely service of such debtor's obligations. Failure to implement such reforms, achieve such levels of economic performance or repay principal or interest when due may result in the cancellation of such third parties' commitments to lend funds to the government debtor, which may further impair such debtor's ability or willingness to service its debts on a timely basis. Holders of government debt, including the Fund, may be requested to participate in the rescheduling of such debt and to extend further loans to government debtors.

As a result of the foregoing, a government obligor may default on its obligations. If such an event occurs, the Fund may have limited legal recourse against the issuer and/or guarantor. Remedies must, in some cases, be pursued in the courts of the defaulting party itself, and the ability of the holder of foreign government debt securities to obtain recourse may be subject to the political climate in the relevant country. In addition, no assurance can be given that the holders of more senior fixed income securities, such as commercial bank debt, will not contest payments to the holders of other foreign government debt securities in the event of default under their commercial bank loan agreements.

Government obligors in Developing Market countries are among the world's largest debtors to commercial banks, other governments, international financial organizations and other financial institutions. The issuers of the government debt securities in which the Fund may invest have in the past experienced substantial difficulties in servicing their external debt obligations, which led to defaults on certain obligations and the restructuring of certain indebtedness. Restructuring arrangements have included, among other things, reducing and rescheduling interest and principal payments by negotiating new or amended credit agreements, and obtaining new credit to finance interest payments. Holders of certain foreign government debt securities may be requested to participate in the restructuring of such obligations and to extend further loans to their issuers. There can be no assurance that the foreign government debt securities in which the Fund may invest will not be subject to similar restructuring arrangements or to requests for new credit, which may adversely affect the Fund's holdings. Furthermore, certain participants in the secondary market for such debt may be directly involved in negotiating the terms of these arrangements and may therefore have access to information not available to other market participants.

Investments in Developing Market countries' government debt securities involve currency risk. See "—Foreign Currency Risk."

Corporate Debt Risk

The Fund may invest in debt securities of non-governmental issuers. Like all debt securities, corporate debt securities generally represent an issuer's obligation to repay to the investor (or lender) the amount borrowed plus interest over a specified time period. A typical corporate bond specifies a fixed date when the amount borrowed (principal) is due in full, known as the maturity date, and specifies dates when periodic interest (coupon) payments will be made over the life of the security.

Corporate debt securities come in many varieties and may differ in the way that interest is calculated, the amount and frequency of payments, the type of collateral, if any, and the presence of special features (e.g., conversion rights). The Fund's investments in corporate debt securities may include, but are not limited to, senior, junior, secured and unsecured bonds, notes and other debt securities, and may be fixed rate, floating rate, zero coupon and inflation linked, among other things.

Prices of corporate debt securities fluctuate and, in particular, are subject to several key risks including, but not limited to, interest rate risk, credit risk, prepayment risk and spread risk. The market value of a corporate bond may be affected by the credit rating of the corporation, the corporation's performance and perceptions of the corporation in the market place. There is a risk that the issuers of the corporate debt securities in which the Fund may invest may not be able to meet their obligations on interest or principal payments at the time called for by an instrument.

Below Investment Grade Securities Risk

The Fund may invest up to 40% of its total assets in debt securities which, at the time of investment, are rated below investment grade (i.e., securities that have been rated below BBB- by S&P or Baa3 by Moody's) (also known as "junk bonds") or, if unrated, are in the opinion of the Investment Manager, of equivalent quality. Among other things, investment in securities which are rated below investment grade requires skilled credit analysis and reduces the overall credit quality of the Fund's portfolio.

Investments in securities rated below investment grade are subject to greater market fluctuations and risk of loss of income and principal than investments in securities with investment grade credit ratings. The former will generally provide higher yields due to the higher premiums required by investors for taking the associated credit risk. Ratings of debt securities represent the rating agency's opinion regarding their quality and are not a guarantee of quality. Rating agencies attempt to evaluate the safety of principal and interest payments and do not evaluate the risks of fluctuations in market value. Because rating agencies may fail to make timely changes in credit ratings in response to subsequent events, the Advisers will continuously monitor the issuers of securities held to determine whether the issuers have sufficient cash flows and profits to meet principal and interest payments.

The achievement of the Fund's investment objective will be more dependent on the Advisers' own credit analysis than might be the case for a fund which invests in higher quality bonds. The Fund may retain a security the rating of which has been changed. The market values of lower quality debt securities tend to reflect individual developments of the issuer to a greater extent than do higher quality securities, which react primarily to fluctuations in the general level of interest rates.

Issuers of lower quality debt securities tend to be highly leveraged. Those issuers may also not have available to them traditional methods of financing. For example, during an economic downturn or a sustained period of rising interest rates, highly leveraged issuers of lower quality securities may experience financial stress. During

these periods, issuers may not have sufficient revenue to meet their interest payment obligations. An issuer's ability to service debt obligations may also be adversely affected by specific developments affecting the issuer, such as the issuer's inability to meet specific projected business forecasts or the unavailability of additional financing. Similarly, certain Developing Market governments that issue lower quality debt securities are among the largest debtors to commercial banks, foreign governments and supranational organizations such as The World Bank, and may not be able or willing to make principal and/or interest repayments as they come due. The risk of loss due to default by the issuer is significantly greater for the holders of lower quality securities because these securities are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to higher ranking creditors of the issuer.

The Fund may also incur additional expense to the extent that it is required to seek recovery on a default in the payment of principal or interest on its portfolio holdings, and the Fund may have limited legal recourse in the event of a default. Debt securities issued by governments in Developing Markets can differ from debt obligations issued by private entities in that remedies for defaults generally must be pursued in the courts of the defaulting government, and legal recourse may be diminished. Political conditions, in terms of a government's willingness to meet the terms of its debt obligations, are also of considerable significance. There can be no assurance that the holders of commercial bank debt may not contest payments to the holders of debt securities issued by governments in the event of default by the governments under commercial bank loan agreements.

The Advisers will attempt to minimize the speculative risks associated with investments in lower quality securities through credit analysis and by carefully monitoring such current trends as interest rates and political developments.

Leverage Risk

The Fund currently has a bank loan to finance investments as a form of leverage. The Fund also has authority to issue preferred stock to finance investments. Leverage entails particular risks for holders of the Fund's common stock. The issuance of preferred stock would affect the amount of income available for distribution on the Fund's common stock as well as the net asset value of the common stock and the voting rights of holders of common stock. Leverage would exaggerate the effects of both currency fluctuations and of market downturns or upturns on the net asset value and market value of the Fund's common stock, as well as on distributions to holders of common stock. Leverage can also increase the volatility of the Fund's net asset value, and expenses related to leverage can reduce the Fund's income. In the case of leverage, if Fund assets decline in value so that legal asset coverage requirements for any borrowings or preferred stock would not be met, the Fund may be prevented from paying distributions, which could jeopardize its qualification for pass-through tax treatment, make it liable for excise taxes and/ or force it to sell portfolio securities at an inopportune time. Holders of preferred stock have the right to elect two directors, and such holders, as well as Fund creditors, have the right under certain circumstances to elect a majority of the Fund's directors.

As noted above, the Fund currently leverages through borrowings from a credit facility. The Fund has entered into a revolving credit agreement with The Bank of Nova Scotia (the "Credit Agreement") to borrow up to $40 million. Such borrowings constitute financial leverage. The Credit Agreement contains customary covenant, negative covenant and default provisions, including covenants that limit the Fund's ability to incur additional debt or consolidate or merge into or with any person, other than as permitted, or sell, lease or otherwise transfer, directly or indirectly, all or substantially all of its assets. The covenants also impose on the Fund asset coverage requirements, fund composition requirements and limits on certain investments, such as illiquid investments, which are more stringent than those imposed on the Fund by the 1940 Act. In addition, the Fund agreed not to purchase assets not contemplated by the investment policies and restrictions in effect when the Credit Agreement became effective. The covenants or guidelines could impede the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser or Sub-Adviser from fully managing the Fund's portfolio in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies. Furthermore, non-compliance with such covenants or the occurrence of other events could lead to the cancellation of the loan facility. The Fund may not incur additional debt from any other party, except for in

limited circumstances (e.g., in the ordinary course of business). The covenants include a requirement that the Fund maintain net assets of no less than $90 million. Such restrictions shall apply only so long as the Credit Agreement remains in effect.

Indebtedness issued under the Credit Agreement is not convertible into any other securities of the Fund. Outstanding amounts would be payable at maturity or such earlier times as required by the Credit Agreement. The Fund may be required to prepay outstanding amounts under the Credit Agreement in the event of the occurrence of certain events of default. The Fund is expected to indemnify the lenders under the Credit Agreement against certain liabilities they may incur in connection with the Credit Agreement. The Fund is required to pay commitment fees under the terms of the Credit Agreement. With the use of borrowings, there is a risk that the interest rates paid by the Fund on the amount it borrows will be higher than the return on the Fund's investments. The credit facility with The Bank of Nova Scotia may in the future be replaced or refinanced by one or more credit facilities having substantially different terms, or the Fund may be unable to renew or replace its credit facility upon the termination of the current facility, possibly requiring it to sell portfolio securities at times or prices that are disadvantageous. Any of these situations could adversely impact income or total return to shareholders.

The Fund must comply with investment quality, diversification and other guidelines established by the credit facility. The Fund does not anticipate that such guidelines will have a material adverse effect on the Fund's common stockholders or its ability to achieve its investment objectives.

Successful use of a leveraging strategy may depend on the Investment Manager's ability to predict correctly interest rates and market movements, and there is no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful during any period in which it is employed.

Liquidity Risk

While the Fund ordinarily invests in debt securities for which there is an active secondary market, the Fund may invest in debt securities for which there is no established secondary market. The securities markets that exist in developing market countries are substantially smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the United States and other more developed countries. Settlement and custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are also often less developed than those in U.S. or other developed markets, and may result in increased risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a non-U.S. broker-dealer, securities depository or non-U.S. subcustodian.

Liquidity in developing markets may be low and transaction costs high. Reduced liquidity often creates higher volatility, as well as difficulties in obtaining accurate market quotations for financial reporting purposes and for calculating net asset values, and sometimes also an inability to buy and sell securities. Market quotations on many non-U.S. debt securities may only be available from a limited number of dealers and may not necessarily represent firm bids from those dealers or prices for actual sales.

In addition, the markets for below investment grade securities may be substantially smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the markets for prime rated securities, which may make obtaining accurate market quotations for financial reporting purposes and for calculating net asset values more difficult. Market quotations on many sub-investment grade securities may only be available from a limited number of dealers and may not necessarily represent firm bids from those dealers or prices for actual sales.

The Fund may not be able readily to dispose of illiquid securities at prices that approximate those at which the Fund could sell such securities if they were more widely traded and, as result of such illiquidity, the Fund may

have to sell other investments or engage in borrowing transactions if necessary to raise cash to meet its obligations. Illiquid securities generally trade at a discount.

Derivatives Risk

Consistent with its investment objective, the Fund may invest in a broad array of financial instruments and securities in which the value of the instrument or security is "derived" from the performance of an underlying asset or a "benchmark" such as a security index, an interest rate or a foreign currency ("derivatives"). Derivatives are most often used to manage interest rate, currency and credit risk, to increase or decrease exposure to an asset class or benchmark (as a hedge or to enhance return), or to create an investment position directly (often because it is more efficient or less costly than direct investment). There is no guarantee that these results can be achieved through the use of derivatives and any success in their use depends on a variety of factors including the ability of the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser to predict correctly the direction of interest rates, securities prices, currency exchange rates and other factors.

The primary risk of derivatives is the same as the risk of the underlying asset, namely that the value of the underlying asset may increase or decrease. Adverse movements in the value of the underlying asset can expose the Fund to losses. In addition, risks in the use of derivatives include:

•  an imperfect correlation between the price of derivatives and the movement of the securities prices, interest rates or currency exchange rates being hedged or replicated;

•  the possible absence of a liquid secondary market for any particular derivative at any time;

•  the potential loss if the counterparty to the transaction does not perform as promised;

•  the possible need to defer closing out certain positions to avoid adverse tax consequences, as well as the possibility that derivative transactions may result in acceleration of gain, deferral of losses or a change in the character of gain realized;

•  the risk that the financial intermediary "manufacturing" the over-the-counter derivative, being the most active market maker and offering the best price for repurchase, will not continue to create a credible market in the derivative;

•  because certain derivatives are "manufactured" by financial institutions, the risk that the Fund may develop a substantial exposure to financial institution counterparties; and

•  the risk that a full and complete appreciation of the complexity of derivatives and how future value is affected by various factors including changing interest rates, exchange rates and credit quality is not attained.

Recent legislation calls for new regulation of the derivatives markets. The extent and impact of the regulation are not yet known and may not be known for some time. New regulation of derivatives may make them more costly, may limit their availability, or may otherwise adversely affect their value or performance.

The Fund may use interest rate swaps to hedge the Fund's liability with respect to its leverage. At present, the Fund has been authorized by its Board of Directors to hedge up to one-third of the Fund's liability with respect to its leverage. This allows the Fund to lock in the relatively low current U.S. dollar interest rates with respect to up to 100% of the Fund's leverage. A significant type of risk associated with interest rate swaps is the risk that the counterparty may default or file for bankruptcy, in which case the Fund would bear the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under the swap agreement. There can be no assurance that the Fund will have an interest rate swap in place at any given time, nor can there be any assurance that, if an interest rate swap is in place, it will be successful in hedging the Fund's interest rate risk with respect to its leverage.

Hedging Strategy Risk

Certain of the investment techniques that the Fund may employ for hedging will expose the Fund to additional or increased risks.

There may be an imperfect correlation between changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio holdings and hedging positions entered into by the Fund, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of loss. In addition, the Fund's success in using hedge instruments is subject to the Investment Manager's ability to predict correctly changes in the relationships of such hedge instruments to the Fund's portfolio holdings, and there can be no assurance that the Investment Manager's judgment in this respect will be accurate. Consequently, the use of hedging transactions might result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund, whether or not adjusted for risk, than if the Fund had not hedged its portfolio holdings.

The Investment Manager is under no obligation to engage in any hedging strategies, and may, in its discretion, choose not to engage in hedging strategies. Even if the Investment Manager desires to hedge some of the Fund's risks, suitable hedging transactions may not be available or, if available, attractive. A failure to hedge may result in losses to the value of the Fund's investments.

Counterparty Risk

The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties to the derivative contracts purchased or sold by the Fund. Recently, several broker-dealers and other financial institutions have experienced extreme financial difficulty, sometimes resulting in bankruptcy of the institution. Although the Investment Manager monitors the creditworthiness of the Fund's counterparties, there can be no assurance that the Fund's counterparties will not experience similar difficulties, possibly resulting in losses to the Fund. If a counterparty becomes bankrupt, or otherwise fails to perform its obligations under a derivative contract due to financial difficulties, the Fund may experience significant delays in obtaining any recovery under the derivative contract in a bankruptcy or other reorganization proceeding. The Fund may obtain only a limited recovery or may obtain no recovery in such circumstances.

Inflation Risk

Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investment will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the real value of the Fund's common stock and dividends can decline.

Management Risk

The Investment Manager's, the Investment Adviser's or the Sub-Adviser's judgment about the attractiveness, relative value or potential appreciation of a particular security or investment strategy may prove to be incorrect.

Current Economic Conditions—Credit Crisis Liquidity and Volatility Risk

The markets for credit instruments, including fixed income securities, have experienced periods of extreme illiquidity and volatility since the latter half of 2007. Tightening of credit conditions occurred just as a record amount of corporate bonds (as measured by transaction volume) were scheduled to enter the markets in the third quarter of 2007. This imbalance has caused a significant dislocation in the markets, marked by sharply widened credit spreads, delayed high yield bond offerings and a general reduction in liquidity. General market uncertainty and consequent repricing risk have led to market imbalances of sellers and buyers, which in turn have also resulted in significant valuation uncertainties in a variety of debt securities, including certain fixed income securities. In addition, during 2008, several major dealers of fixed income securities exited the market via

acquisition or bankruptcy. These conditions resulted, and in many cases continue to result in greater volatility, less liquidity, widening credit spreads and a lack of price transparency, with many debt securities remaining illiquid and of uncertain value. During times of reduced market liquidity the Fund may not be able to sell securities readily at prices reflecting the values at which the securities are carried on the Fund's books. Sales of large blocks of securities by market participants, such as the Fund, that are seeking liquidity can further reduce security prices in an illiquid market. These market conditions may make valuation of some of the Fund's securities uncertain and/or result in sudden and significant valuation increases or decreases in its holdings. Illiquidity and volatility in the credit markets may directly and adversely affect the setting of dividend rates on the Shares.

Furthermore, because of the current conditions in the credit markets across the globe, issuers of fixed income securities may be subject to increased costs associated with incurring debt, tightening underwriting standards and reduced liquidity for the loans they make, the securities they purchase and the securities they issue. The worsening general economic conditions have materially and adversely impacted the broader financial and credit markets and have reduced the availability of debt and equity capital for the market as a whole.

A number of countries in Europe have experienced severe economic and financial difficulties. Many non-governmental issuers, and even certain governments, have defaulted on, or been forced to restructure, their debts; many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit or refinancing existing obligations; financial institutions have in many cases required government or central bank support, have needed to raise capital, and/or have been impaired in their ability to extend credit; and financial markets in Europe and elsewhere have experienced extreme volatility and declines in asset values and liquidity. These difficulties may continue, worsen or spread within and outside of Europe. Whether or not the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in Europe or with significant exposure to European issuers or countries, these events could negatively affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments.

These developments have adversely affected the broader economy, and may continue to do so, which in turn may adversely affect the ability of issuers of securities owned by the Fund to make payments of principal and interest when due, lead to lower credit ratings and increased defaults. Such developments could, in turn, reduce the value of securities owned by the Fund and adversely affect the net asset value of the Fund's Common Stock. Extraordinary steps have been taken by the governments of several leading economic countries to combat the current economic crisis. The impact of these measures is not yet known and cannot be predicted.

Government Intervention in Financial Markets Risk

The recent instability in the financial markets has led the U.S. government and foreign governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that have experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases a lack of liquidity. U.S. federal and state governments and foreign governments, their regulatory agencies or self regulatory organizations may take additional actions that affect the regulation of the securities in which the Fund invests, or the issuers of such securities, in ways that are unforeseeable. Issuers of corporate fixed income securities might seek protection under the bankruptcy laws. Legislation or regulation may also change the way in which the Fund itself is regulated. Such legislation or regulation could limit or preclude the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objectives. The Investment Manager will monitor developments and seek to manage the Fund's portfolio in a manner consistent with achieving the Fund's investment objectives, but there can be no assurance that it will be successful in doing so.

Regulatory changes could adversely affect the Fund by limiting its trading activities in futures and swaps and increasing Fund expenses. Effective December 31, 2012, the Fund became subject to the CFTC's final rules which limit the Fund's ability to use futures and swaps in reliance on certain past CFTC exemptions. If the Fund cannot execute its investment strategies within the new limits, one or all of the Advisers may be required to register with the CFTC as a commodity pool operator ("CPO") with respect to the Fund. As a result of such

registration, disclosure, reporting and operations of the Fund would need to comply with all applicable regulations governing commodity pools, which would increase the Fund's regulatory compliance costs.

Conflicts of Interest Risk

AAMAL's, the Investment Adviser's and the Sub-Adviser's advisory fees are based on net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes. Consequently, AAMAL and the Sub-Adviser will benefit from an increase in the Fund's net assets resulting from an offering. In addition, a Director who is an "interested person" (as such term is defined under the 1940 Act) of the Fund or a portfolio manager of the Fund could benefit indirectly from this offering because of such affiliations.

Net Asset Value Discount

Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount from net asset value. This characteristic is a risk separate and distinct from the risk that net asset value will decrease. The Fund cannot predict whether its Shares in the future will trade at, below or above net asset value. This risk that shares of a closed-end fund might trade at a discount is more significant for investors who wish to sell their shares in a relatively short period of time. For those investors, realization of gain or loss on their investment is likely to be more dependent upon the existence of a premium or discount than upon portfolio performance.

Distribution Rate

It is the Fund's current policy to pay distributions from net investment income supplemented by net realized foreign exchange gains, net realized short-term capital gains and return of capital distributions if necessary, on a monthly basis. The Fund will also declare and pay distributions at least annually from net realized gains on investment transactions and net realized foreign exchange gains, if any. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date.

The Fund's income distributions and its capital and currency gains distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations that may differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. These differences are primarily due to differing treatments for foreign currencies.

If the Fund's investments do not generate sufficient income, the Fund may be required to liquidate a portion of its portfolio to fund these distributions, and therefore a portion or all of such distributions may represent a reduction of the shareholders' principal investment. Such liquidation might be at a time when independent investment judgment would not dictate such action, increasing the Fund's overall portfolio turnover (and related transaction costs) and making it more difficult for the Fund to achieve its investment objective.

Non-Diversification Risk

The Fund is classified as a "non-diversified" management investment company under the 1940 Act. This means that the Fund is not subject to limits under the 1940 Act as to the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the securities of a single issuer. As a non-diversified investment company, the Fund may therefore invest its assets in securities of a smaller number of issuers, and, as a result, would be subject to greater risk with respect to its portfolio securities. Although the Fund must comply with certain diversification requirements in order to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), the Fund may be more susceptible to any single economic, political or regulatory occurrence than would be the case if it had elected to diversify its holding sufficiently to be classified as a "diversified" management investment company under the 1940 Act. The Fund, however, intends to comply with the diversification requirements imposed by the Code for qualification as a regulated investment company.

Anti-Takeover Charter Provisions

The Fund's charter and by-laws contain several provisions that may be regarded as "anti-takeover" because they have the effect of maintaining continuity of management. Also, charter provisions subject the Fund to certain provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law with respect to unsolicited takeovers. See "Certain Provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law and the Charter and Bylaws."

Repurchase Agreement Risk

Repurchase agreements may involve risks in the event of default or insolvency of the seller, including possible delays or restrictions with respect to the Fund's ability to dispose of the underlying securities, and the possibility that the collateral might not be sufficient to cover any losses incurred by the Fund.

Securities Lending Risk

In connection with its loans of portfolio securities, the Fund may be exposed to the risk of delay in recovery of the loaned securities or possible loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower become insolvent. The Fund also bears the risk of loss on the investment of cash collateral. There is also the risk that, in the event of default by the borrower, the collateral might not be sufficient to cover any losses incurred by the Fund. There can be no assurance that the return to the Fund from a particular loan, or from its loans overall, will exceed the related costs and any related losses.

Tax Risk

The Fund may invest in securities of which the federal income tax treatment may not be clear or may be subject to recharacterization by the IRS. It could be more difficult for the Fund to comply with the United States tax requirements applicable to regulated investment companies, or with other tax requirements applicable to foreign investors, if the tax characterization of the Fund's investments or the tax treatment of the income from such investments were successfully challenged by the IRS. See "Taxation."

Tax Considerations

The Fund intends to qualify and to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Code. If it so qualifies, it generally will be relieved of U.S. federal income tax on its investment company taxable income and net capital gains, if any, which it distributes to shareholders in accordance with requirements under the Code. In order to continue to meet the requirements of the Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to minimize its U.S. federal income tax liability, it is the Fund's policy to distribute substantially all of its net income and capital gains, if any, to shareholders. To the extent that the Fund has earnings available for distribution, its distributions in the hands of shareholders may be treated as ordinary dividend income, although certain distributions may be reported by the Fund as capital gain distributions, which would be treated as long-term capital gain, or qualified dividend income, which may be eligible for long-term capital gain tax rates if certain holding period rules apply. Dividends and capital gains distributions paid by the Fund are not expected to qualify for the corporate dividends-received deduction. Distributions in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will first reduce a shareholder's basis in his shares and, after the shareholder's basis is reduced to zero, will constitute capital gains to the shareholder who holds his shares as capital assets.

Subject to certain limitations imposed by the Code, foreign taxes withheld from distributions or otherwise paid by the Fund may be creditable or deductible by U.S. shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes, if the Fund is eligible to and makes an election to treat the shareholders as having paid those taxes for U.S. federal income tax purposes. No assurance can be given that the Fund will be eligible to make this election each year, but it intends to do so if it is eligible. If the election is made, the foreign withholding taxes paid by the Fund will be

includable in the U.S. federal taxable income of shareholders. Non-U.S. investors may not be able to credit or deduct the foreign taxes, but they may be deemed to have additional income from the Fund equal to their share of the foreign taxes paid by the Fund subject to U.S. withholding tax. Investors should review carefully the information discussed under the heading "Taxation" and should discuss with their tax advisers the specific tax consequences of investing in the Fund.

MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND

The Board of Directors

The Board of Directors directs the management of the business and affairs of the Fund, including general supervision of the duties performed by the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and other service providers.

The Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser

Aberdeen Asset Management Asia Limited serves as the investment manager to the Fund ("AAMAL" or the "Investment Manager") pursuant to a management agreement dated as of June 7, 2006 ("Management Agreement"). Aberdeen Asset Management Limited serves as the investment adviser to the Fund (the "Investment Adviser") and Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited serves as the sub-adviser to the Fund (the "Sub-Adviser") pursuant to an advisory agreement dated as of June 7, 2006 (the "Advisory Agreement") and a sub-advisory agreement dated as of March 6, 2009 (the "Sub-Advisory Agreement"), respectively.

The Investment Manager, a Singapore corporation, manages the Fund's investments and makes investment decisions on behalf of the Fund. The registered office of the Investment Manager is located at 21 Church Street, #01-01 Capital Square Two, Singapore 049480. The Investment Adviser, an Australian corporation, makes recommendations to the Investment Manager as to the overall structure of the Fund's portfolio, including asset allocation advice and general advice on investment strategy relating to the Fund's overall investment objectives and the selection of and the placement of orders with brokers and dealers to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the Fund. In rendering investment advisory services, the Investment Adviser may use the resources of the Investment Manager. The registered office of the Investment Adviser is located at Level 6, 201 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. The Sub-Adviser, a United Kingdom limited company, provides sub-advisory services to the Fund, in accordance with the Fund's stated investment objectives, policies and limitations and subject to the supervision of the Fund's Board of Directors, and manages the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to it by the Investment Manager. The registered office of the Sub-Adviser is located at Bow Bells House, 1 Bread Street, London, England, EC4M9HH. The Advisers have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with their affiliates, pursuant to which investment professionals from affiliates of the Advisers may render portfolio management, research or trading services to the U.S. clients of the Advisers, including the Fund. The Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each affiliates of and wholly owned by Aberdeen Asset Management PLC ("Aberdeen PLC").

Aberdeen PLC is the parent company of an asset management group managing approximately $306.7 billion in assets as of October 31, 2012 for a range of pension funds, financial institutions, investment trusts, unit trusts, offshore funds, charities and private clients, in addition to U.S. registered investment companies. The registered offices of Aberdeen PLC are located at 10 Queen's Terrace, Aberdeen, Scotland AB 10 1 YG. Aberdeen PLC, its affiliates and subsidiaries are referred to collectively herein as "Aberdeen." Aberdeen PLC was formed in 1983 and was first listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1991.

The Management Agreement provides that the Fund will pay the Investment Manager a fee at the annual rate of 0.65% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $200 million, 0.60% of Managed Assets between $200 million and $500 million and 0.55% of Managed Assets in excess of $500 million, computed based upon

Managed Assets determined weekly and payable on the first business day of each calendar month. Managed Assets are defined as net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes. During the period in which the Fund is utilizing leverage, the advisory fee payable to the Investment Manager will be higher than if the Fund did not utilize a leveraged capital structure because the fees are calculated as a percentage of the Managed Assets, including those purchased with leverage. The Fund is currently utilizing leverage. The Advisory Agreement provides that the Investment Manager will pay the Investment Adviser a fee computed at the annual rate of up to 0.15% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets computed based upon the value of the Managed Assets determined weekly and payable on the first business day of each calendar month. The Sub-Advisory Agreement provides that the Investment Manager will pay the Sub-Adviser an annual fee paid monthly based on average weekly Managed Assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser according to the following schedule: 0.17% on the first $200 million; 0.16% between $200 million and up to $500 million; and 0.15% in excess of $500 million.

For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012, the Investment Manager earned management fees of $1,064,570 for management services; the Investment Adviser earned advisory fees of $319,634 for advisory services; and the Sub-Adviser earned sub-advisory fees of $152,380 for sub-advisory services.

Non-U.S.-Resident Directors and Officers

Although the Fund is a Maryland corporation, certain of its Directors and officers (Messrs. Kevin Daly, Martin J. Gilbert, Paul Griffiths, P. Gerald Malone, Anthony Michael, Neville J. Miles, Christian Pittard, Victor Rodriguez and Peter D. Sacks) are non-residents of the United States and have all, or a substantial part, of their assets located outside the United States. None of the Directors or officers has authorized an agent for service of process in the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for U.S. investors to effect service of process upon such Directors and officers within the United States or to effectively enforce judgments of courts of the United States predicated upon civil liabilities of the Directors or officers under the federal securities laws of the United States.

The Fund has been advised by local counsel in Australia, a foreign jurisdiction in which certain Fund Directors and/or officers reside, that there is doubt as to the enforceability in such jurisdiction of the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States, whether or not the liabilities are based upon judgments of courts in the United States or are pursuant to original actions.

The Fund has been advised by local counsel in the United Kingdom, a foreign jurisdiction in which certain Fund Directors and/or officers reside, that it is uncertain whether the courts of that jurisdiction would adjudge civil liability against Directors and officers resident in that jurisdiction in an original action in such jurisdiction predicated solely on a violation of the federal securities laws of the United States. However, although there is no arrangement in place between the United Kingdom and the United States for the reciprocal enforcement of judgments, a final and conclusive monetary judgment against the Directors and officers in an original action predicated on such provisions rendered by a court in the United States may be enforceable by action or counterclaim or be recognized by the courts of the United Kingdom as a defense to an action or as conclusive of an issue in that action if it is not of a penalty or revenue nature, remains valid and enforceable in the court in which it was obtained and has not been set aside, was not obtained by fraud or otherwise than in accordance with the principles of natural justice, the enforcement would not be contrary to public policy of the United Kingdom and the United States court had jurisdiction in respect of the defendant in the original action in accordance with the English rules of private international law.

The Fund has been advised by local counsel in Canada, a foreign jurisdiction in which certain Fund Directors reside, that it is uncertain whether the courts of those jurisdictions would adjudge civil liability against Directors resident in those jurisdictions in an original action in such jurisdictions predicated solely on a violation of the United States federal securities laws. A Canadian court may take jurisdiction in the first instance in actions

against the Directors or experts of the Fund on the basis of civil liability predicated solely upon United States federal securities laws. A Canadian court would, however, likely decline jurisdiction where another jurisdiction was a more appropriate jurisdiction to hear the action, or if there was not a real and substantial connection to the Canadian jurisdiction. Likewise, there is no arrangement in place between Canada, on the one hand, and the United States, on the other, for the reciprocal enforcement of judgments. However, a final and conclusive monetary judgment against the Directors in an original action predicated on such provisions rendered by a court in the United States may be enforceable by action or counterclaim or be recognized by the courts of Canada as a defense to an action or as conclusive of an issue in that action if it was not obtained by fraud or otherwise than in accordance with the principles of natural justice, the enforcement would not be contrary to public policy and the United States court had jurisdiction in respect of the defendant in the original action.

Portfolio Management

The following persons have primary responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio. The Fund's SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed by the portfolio managers and the portfolio managers' ownership of securities in the Fund.

Patrick Murphy, Portfolio Manager (Sub-Adviser) — Patrick O'Donnell is a portfolio manager in the Euro fixed income team. Whilst completing his thesis in 2005, Patrick joined Aberdeen as a summer intern on the emerging market debt team. Patrick then joined the Graduate analyst program and has since held the roles of quantitative analyst and derivatives trader prior to becoming a portfolio manager in 2011. Patrick graduated with a BAI, BA (Hons) in Electronic and Electrical Engineering from Trinity College Dublin and an MSc (Hons) in Digital Signal Processing from King's College London.

Anthony Michael, Head of Fixed Income—Asia Pacific (Investment Manager) — Anthony Michael is the Head of Fixed Income—Asia Pacific desk, responsible for the management and investment performance of Aberdeen's Asia-Pacific fixed income and capital market products. Anthony joined Aberdeen in 2007 following the acquisition of Deutsche Asset Management's Fixed Income and Equity businesses that year. Anthony held the position of director/senior portfolio manager with Deutsche in Sydney for five years, responsible for the development and implementation of fixed income and FX strategies. He was also a member of the global strategy group, the global insurance group and was a member of the tactical asset allocation committee. Previously, Anthony worked in similar roles with the Zurich Scudder Group, Perpetual Funds Management Australia and the ING Group.

Anthony has a BEcon and a MEc in Economics from Macquarie University, Australia, an MComm in Applied Finance from the University of New South Wales and a Graduate Diploma in Securities studies from the Securities Institute of Australia.

Victor Rodriguez, Head of Fixed Income—Australia (Investment Adviser) — Victor Rodriguez is the Head of Fixed Income on the Australian fixed income team. Victor joined Aberdeen in 2009 following the acquisition of Credit Suisse Asset Management (Australia) Limited. Victor joined Credit Suisse Asset Management in 1995 as a member of the fixed income team and became a senior member of the team, specialising in credit strategies. Prior to this, Victor spent two years working with Westpac Financial Services as an investment analyst.

Victor graduated from the University of Sydney, with a Bachelor of Economics degree. He is also a Certified Practicing Accountant and holds a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance and Investment from the Securities Institute of Australia.

Nick Bishop, Senior Investment Manager (Investment Adviser) — Nick Bishop joined Aberdeen in 2007, following Aberdeen's acquisition of Deutsche Asset Management (Australia) Limited. He spent two years at

Canada Life Insurance Co as a financial services consultant before joining Deutsche in 1998. Nick was a member of the UK macro team, helping to formulate and implement interest rate strategy before becoming a fund manager and credit analyst within the credit team.

Nick Bishop graduated from the University of Sheffield with a First Class Honours degree in Law and Criminology. He is also a CFA Charterholder and member of the CFA Institute.

Kevin Daly, Portfolio Manager (Sub-Adviser) — Kevin Daly is a portfolio manager on the emerging market debt team. Kevin joined Aberdeen in April 2007 having spent the previous 10 years at Standard & Poor's in London and Singapore. During that time Kevin worked as a credit market analyst covering global emerging debt, and was head of origination for Global Sovereign Ratings. Kevin was a regular participant on the Global Sovereign Ratings Committee, and was one of the initial members of the Emerging Market Council, formed in 2006 to advise senior management on business and market developments in emerging markets.

Kevin graduated with a BA in English Literature from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Administrator

Aberdeen Asset Management Inc. ("AAMI"), 1735 Market Street, 32^nd Floor, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, an affiliate of the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser, and Sub-Adviser is the Fund's Administrator, pursuant to an agreement under which AAMI receives a fee, payable monthly. The annual fee rate is 0.125% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets up to $1 billion, 0.10% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets between $1 billion and $2 billion, and 0.075% of the Fund's average weekly Managed Assets in excess of $2 billion.

Under terms of an Investor Relations Services Agreement, AAMI serves as the Fund's investor relations services provider. During the year ended October 31, 2012, the Fund incurred fees of approximately $110,422. Investor relations fees and expenses in the Statement of Operations include certain out-of-pocket expenses.

Sub-Administrator

State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street"), One Heritage Drive, North Quincy, MA 02171, is the sub-administrator for the Fund and certain other affiliated funds.

Custodian

State Street Bank acts as the Fund's custodian.

Transfer Agent

Computershare Trust Company, N.A., ESPP/SOP, 250 Royall Street, Canton, MA 02021, serves as the Fund's stock transfer agent and dividend paying agent.

EXPENSES

The Fund pays all of its expenses, including organization expenses; fees of the Investment Manager, Administrator, Sub-Administrator, custodian and dividend disbursing and stock transfer agent; fees of Directors who are not interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any other party; out of pocket expenses of all Fund Directors and officers, including those affiliated with Fund management which may be reimbursed under the Fund's reimbursement policy regarding fund-related expenses; other expenses related to meetings of Directors; legal fees and expenses; costs of insurance; costs of shareholders' meetings, proxy statements and shareholder

reports; investors' relation fees and expenses, interest expenses; taxes and governmental fees, including original issue taxes or transfer taxes related to portfolio transactions; brokerage commissions and other portfolio transaction expenses; auditing and accounting fees and expenses; and costs of regulatory filings and compliance.

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS

General Distribution Policy

It is the Fund's policy to continue to meet the requirements of the Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of its taxable net income and capital gains, if any, to shareholders.

It is the Fund's current policy to pay distributions from net investment income supplemented by net realized foreign exchange gains, net realized short-term capital gains and return of capital distributions if necessary, on a monthly basis. The Fund will also declare and pay distributions at least annually from net realized gains on investment transactions and net realized foreign exchange gains, if any. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date.

Income distributions and capital and currency gains distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations (see "Taxation") that may differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. These differences are primarily due to differing treatments for foreign currencies.

DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT AND DIRECT STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

Computershare Trust Company, N.A. sponsors and administers a Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan (the "Plan") which is available to shareholders. Additional information about the Plan and a brochure that includes the terms and conditions of the Plan may be obtained at www.computershare.com/buyaberdeen or by calling Computershare Trust Company, N.A. at 1-800-647-0584. For both purchases and reinvestment purposes, shares acquired through the Plan will be purchased in the open market at the current share price and cannot be issued directly by the Fund.

TAXATION

The following is intended to be a general summary of certain tax consequences that may result to the Fund and its shareholders. It is not intended as a complete discussion of all such tax consequences, nor does it purport to deal with all categories of investors. Investors are therefore advised to consult with their tax advisers before making an investment in the Fund.

The Fund and its Investments

The Fund has qualified and expects to continue to qualify and elect to be treated as a regulated investment company for each taxable year under the Code. The Fund expects that all of its foreign currency gains will be directly related to its principal business of investing in stocks and securities. As a regulated investment company, the Fund will not be subject to United States federal income tax on its net investment income (i.e., income other than its net realized long- and short-term capital gains) and net realized capital gains, if any, that it distributes to its stockholders, provided that an amount equal to at least 90% of its investment company taxable income (i.e., 90% of the sum of its net investment income and net realized short-term capital gains, after taking into account certain required adjustments) for the taxable year is distributed, but the Fund will be subject to tax at regular corporate rates on any income or gains that it does not distribute. Furthermore, the Fund will be subject to a U.S. corporate income tax with respect to such distributed amounts in any year that it fails to qualify as a regulated investment company or fails to satisfy this distribution requirement.

The Fund intends to distribute annually to its stockholders all of its net investment income and net realized short-term capital gains. The Board of Directors of the Fund will determine annually whether to distribute any net realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized short-term capital losses (including any capital loss carryovers from prior years). The Fund currently expects to distribute any such excess annually to its stockholders.

The Fund maintains and will continue to maintain accounts and calculate income in U.S. dollars. In general, gains or losses on the disposition of debt securities denominated in a foreign currency that are attributable to fluctuations in exchange rates between the date the debt security is acquired and the date of disposition, gains and losses attributable to fluctuations in exchange rates that occur between the time the Fund accrues interest or other receivables or accrues expenses or other liabilities denominated in a foreign currency and the time the Fund actually collects such receivables or pays such liabilities, and gains and losses from the disposition of foreign currencies and certain hedging instruments will be treated as ordinary income or loss.

The Fund's transactions in foreign currencies, forward contracts, options and futures contracts (including options and futures contracts on foreign currencies) are subject to straddle and other special provisions of the Code that, among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized by the Fund (i.e., may affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital), accelerate recognition of income to the Fund and defer Fund losses.

Dividends and Distributions

Distributions to stockholders of investment company taxable income will, except in the case of distributions attributable to "qualified dividend income" described below, be taxable as ordinary income to the extent of the Fund's earnings and profits, whether such distributions are paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. Distributions of net long-term capital gains, if any, that the Fund reports as capital gains dividends are taxable as long-term capital gains, whether paid in cash or in shares, regardless of how long the stockholder has held the Fund's shares. Dividends and distributions paid by the Fund will not qualify for the deduction for dividends received by corporations. Distributions of investment company taxable income reported by the Fund as derived from qualified dividend income will be taxable to individuals at the rates applicable to long-term capital gain, provided holding period and other requirements are met by both the individual and the Fund. Qualified dividend income generally includes dividends from domestic corporations and dividends from "qualified foreign corporations." The determination of whether a particular foreign corporation is a qualified foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes depends on various factors. Because of the fact-specific nature of the inquiry, the Fund cannot predict at this time what portion of the dividends, if any, that it will receive from foreign corporations will be treated as qualified dividend income. Distributions in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will first reduce a stockholder's basis in his shares and, after the stockholder's basis is reduced to zero, will constitute capital gains to a stockholder who holds his shares as capital assets.

With respect to income dividends or capital gains distributions payable either in shares of the Fund's Common Stock or in cash, stockholders receiving dividends or distributions in the form of additional shares should be treated for United States federal income tax purposes as receiving a distribution in the amount equal to the amount of money that the stockholders receiving cash dividends will receive, and should have a cost basis in the shares received equal to such amount. With respect to income dividends or capital gains distributions payable only in cash, stockholders receiving a distribution in the form of shares of Common Stock purchased in the open market will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as receiving a distribution on the cash distribution that such stockholder would have received had it not elected to have such distribution reinvested and will have a cost basis in such shares equal to the amount of such distribution.

Beginning in 2013, a 3.8% Medicare contribution tax will be imposed on net investment income, including, but not limited to, interest, dividends, and net gain from investments, of U.S. individuals with income exceeding $200,000 (or $250,000 if married filing jointly), and of estates and trusts.

If a stockholder is neither a lawful permanent resident nor a citizen of the United States or if he is a foreign entity, the Fund's ordinary income dividends (which include distributions of net short-term capital gain) will generally be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax, unless a lower treaty rate applies.

A 30% withholding tax will be imposed on dividends paid after December 31, 2013, and on redemption proceeds paid after December 31, 2016, to (i) certain foreign financial institutions including non-U.S. investment funds unless they agree to collect and disclose to the IRS information regarding their direct and indirect U.S. account holders and (ii) certain other foreign entities unless they certify certain information regarding their direct and indirect U.S. owners. To avoid withholding, a foreign financial institution will need to (i) enter into an agreement with the IRS regarding providing the IRS information including the name, address and taxpayer identification number of direct and indirect U.S. account holders, comply with due diligence procedures with respect to the identification of U.S. accounts, report to the IRS certain information with respect to U.S. accounts maintained, agree to withhold tax on certain payments made to non-compliant foreign financial institutions or to account holders who fail to provide the required information, and determine certain other information as to their account holders, or, (ii) in the event that an intergovernmental agreement and implementing legislation are adopted, provide local revenue authorities with similar account holder information. Other foreign entities will need to provide the name, address, and taxpayer identification number of each substantial U.S. owner or certifications of no substantial U.S. ownership unless certain exceptions apply.

Dividends and interest received by the Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes. A stockholder may be able to claim a credit or take a deduction for foreign taxes paid by the Fund if certain requirements are met.

By law, a stockholder's dividends and redemption proceeds will be subject to a 28% withholding tax if he has not provided a taxpayer identification number or social security number or the number that he has provided is incorrect.

Sales of Shares

Upon the sale or exchange of shares held as a capital asset, a stockholder will realize a taxable capital gain or loss depending upon the amount realized and his basis in his shares. Such gain or loss will be treated as long-term or short-term capital gain or loss depending upon the stockholder's holding period for the shares. Any loss realized on a sale or through the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions in the Fund under the Plan, within a period (of 61 days) beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares, will be disallowed. In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be increased to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss realized by a stockholder on the sale of a Fund share held by the stockholder for six months or less will be treated for tax purposes as long-term capital loss to the extent of any distributions of long-term capital gains received by the stockholder with respect to such share.

Notices

Stockholders will be notified annually by the Fund as to the United States federal income tax status of the dividends, distributions and deemed distributions made by the Fund to its stockholders. Furthermore, stockholders will also receive, if appropriate, various written notices after the close of the Fund's taxable year regarding the U.S. federal income tax status of certain dividends, distributions and deemed distributions that were paid (or that are treated as having been paid) by the Fund to its stockholders during the preceding taxable year.

Other Taxation

Distributions also may be subject to additional state, local and foreign taxes depending on each stockholder's particular situation.

THE FOREGOING IS ONLY A SUMMARY OF CERTAIN MATERIAL TAX CONSEQUENCES AFFECTING THE FUND AND ITS SHAREHOLDERS. SHAREHOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISERS WITH RESPECT TO THE PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUND.

CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE MARYLAND GENERAL CORPORATION LAW AND THE CHARTER AND BYLAWS

The Fund's charter and bylaws contain certain provisions, described below, that may be regarded as "anti-takeover" provisions and that may deprive shareholders of certain opportunities to sell their shares at a premium over prevailing market prices. The following is only a summary and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Fund's charter and bylaws, and to the provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law.

Under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation generally cannot dissolve, amend its charter, merge, sell all or substantially all of its assets or engage in a share exchange, unless approved by the affirmative vote of shareholders entitled to cast at least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. However, a Maryland corporation may provide in its charter for approval of these and other matters by a lesser percentage, but not less than a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. The Fund has such a charter provision, but it is not applicable to certain transactions requiring a vote of at least 80% of the Fund's Common and Preferred Stock, voting as a single class, unless approved by a vote of 66-2/3% of Continuing Directors. Such transactions include (i) charter amendments to make the Common Stock a redeemable security or to otherwise convert the Fund from closed-end to open-end status, (ii) charter amendments to provide for fewer than three classes of Directors elected by the holders of Common Stock, (iii) any stockholder proposal as to specific investment decisions with respect to the Fund's assets, and (iv) any Business Combination. The term "Business Combination" means (A) any merger or consolidation of the Fund with any other person, (B) the liquidation or dissolution of the Fund, (C) sale, lease, exchange or other transfer of assets valued at $1,000,000 or more (except for transactions effected in the ordinary course of the Fund's investment activities), and (D) certain issuances or transfers of any securities of the Fund in exchange for cash, securities or other property (excluding sales or issuances of Fund securities in connection with a public offering, or pursuant to a Fund dividend reinvestment plan, or upon exercise of stock subscription rights distributed by the Fund). The term "Continuing Director" means any member of the Fund's Board of Directors who has been such a member for at least 12 months or who is a successor of a Continuing Director and is recommended to succeed a Continuing Director by a majority of the Continuing Directors then on the Board of Directors.

The charter has no special provisions for statutory share exchanges under Maryland law, which may be approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the total number of all classes of the Fund's stock outstanding and entitled to vote thereon.

The Fund, by supplement to its charter, has elected to be subject to certain provisions of Maryland law that make it more difficult for challengers to gain control of the Board. Articles Supplementary approved by the Board of Directors in 2000 subject the Fund to certain provisions of Subtitle 8 of the Maryland General Corporation Law with respect to unsolicited takeovers. These provisions: (i) provide that the shareholders of the Fund may remove any Director by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of all the votes entitled to be cast by the shareholders generally in the election of Directors (and since the Fund's directors have been divided into classes, a director may not be removed without cause), (ii) require that the number of Directors of the Fund shall be fixed only by the vote of the Board of Directors, (iii) provide that a vacancy on the Board of Directors due to an

increase in the size of the Board or the death, resignation or removal of a Director, may be filled only by the affirmative vote of the majority of the remaining Directors in office, even if the remaining Directors do not constitute a quorum, and (iv) provide that the Secretary of the Fund may call a shareholder-requested special meeting only on the written request of the stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of all votes entitled to be cast at the meeting.

Additionally, as described below, the Fund's bylaws contain certain provisions that may tend to make a change of control of the Fund more difficult.

The bylaws:

1. Provide (as does the charter provide) for three classes of Directors elected by common shareholders, with staggered terms. Each year, directors are elected for three-year terms and until their successors are duly elected and qualify. Only one class of those Directors is up for election each year, so that two years would be required to change a majority of the Fund's Directors.

2. Establish procedures for shareholder-requested special meetings upon the written request of shareholders entitled to cast not less than a majority of all the votes cast at such meeting, including procedures for setting the record date for the shareholders entitled to request a special meeting, procedures for setting the record date for the meeting and the time, place and date of the meeting and specific provisions governing who shall chair the meeting. Consistent with the Maryland General Corporation Law, shareholders requesting a meeting would be required to disclose the purpose of the meeting and the matters to be proposed for action at the meeting.

3. Require a shareholder to give written advance notice and other information to the Fund of the shareholder's nominees for Directors and proposals for other business to be considered at shareholders meetings.

4. Establish qualifications for Fund Directors. These qualifications are designed to assure that individuals have the type of background and experience necessary to provide competent service as Directors of a closed-end fund that invests in fixed income globally. To qualify as a nominee for a Fund Directorship, a candidate must (a) have at least 5 years' experience in either investment management, economics, public accounting or Australian business; (b) have a college undergraduate degree in economics, finance, business administration, accounting, or engineering, or a professional degree in law, engineering, or medicine from an accredited university or college in the United States or Australia or the equivalent degree from an equivalent institution of higher learning in another country; and (c) not have violated any provision of the U.S. federal or state securities laws, or comparable laws of another country. In addition, the Fund's Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee shall apply the Fund's Conflict of Interest and Corporate Opportunities Policy as a standard in selecting nominees to ensure that an incumbent nominee has not violated the Policy and that a non-incumbent nominee would not be in violation of the Policy if elected. Directors who served in such capacity as of September 13, 2004, the initial date of adoption of the qualifications for Fund Directors are exempted from these requirements (except compliance with the Fund's conflict of interest policy) because they had become qualified through past experience as Directors of the Fund. Nevertheless, almost all current Directors satisfy the Fund's qualification requirements. No person shall be qualified to be a Director unless the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, in consultation with Fund counsel, determines that such person, if elected, would not cause the Fund to be in violation of applicable law, regulation or regulatory interpretation, the Fund's charter or any general policy adopted by the Board regarding retirement age or specifying proportions of Directors who may be "interested persons," as defined in the 1940 Act.

5. Establish supermajority Board vote requirements for certain actions, including election of officers, officer and Director compensation, the amendment of the Director term and qualification requirements and Director quorum and voting requirements.

6. Reserve to the Board the exclusive power to adopt, alter, or repeal any provision of the bylaws or to make new bylaws, unless otherwise provided in the bylaws.

7. Provide that Directors and officers are entitled to indemnification and that the Fund may pay or reimburse expenses of Directors and officers to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law and the 1940 Act.

PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

We may sell Shares through underwriters or dealers, directly to one or more purchasers (including existing shareholders in a rights offering), through agents, to or through underwriters or dealers, or through a combination of any such methods of sale. The applicable Prospectus Supplement will identify any underwriter or agent involved in the offer and sale of our Shares, any sales loads, discounts, commissions, fees or other compensation paid to any underwriter, dealer or agent, the offering price, net proceeds and use of proceeds and the terms of any sale. In the case of a rights offering, the applicable Prospectus Supplement will set forth the number of our Shares issuable upon the exercise of each right and the other terms of such rights offering.

The distribution of our Shares may be effected from time to time in one or more transactions at a fixed price or prices, which may be changed, at prevailing market prices at the time of sale, at prices related to such prevailing market prices, or at negotiated prices.

We may sell our Shares directly to, and solicit offers from, institutional investors or others who may be deemed to be underwriters as defined in the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") for any resales of the securities. In this case, no underwriters or agents would be involved. We may use electronic media, including the Internet, to sell offered securities directly.

In connection with the sale of our Shares, underwriters or agents may receive compensation from us in the form of discounts, concessions or commissions. Underwriters may sell our Shares to or through dealers, and such dealers may receive compensation in the form of discounts, concessions or commissions from the underwriters and/or commissions from the purchasers for whom they may act as agents. Underwriters, dealers and agents that participate in the distribution of our Shares may be deemed to be underwriters under the Securities Act, and any discounts and commissions they receive from us and any profit realized by them on the resale of our Shares may be deemed to be underwriting discounts and commissions under the Securities Act. Any such underwriter or agent will be identified and any such compensation received from us will be described in the applicable Prospectus Supplement. The maximum amount of all compensation to be received by any Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") member or independent broker-dealer will not exceed eight percent for the sale of any securities being offered pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act. We will not pay any compensation to any underwriter or agent in the form of warrants, options, consulting or structuring fees or similar arrangements. In connection with any rights offering to existing shareholders, we may enter into a standby underwriting arrangement with one or more underwriters pursuant to which the underwriter(s) will purchase Shares remaining unsubscribed after the rights offering.

If a Prospectus Supplement so indicates, we may grant the underwriters an option to purchase additional Shares at the public offering price, less the underwriting discounts and commissions, within 45 days from the date of the Prospectus Supplement, to cover any over-allotments.

Under agreements into which we may enter, underwriters, dealers and agents who participate in the distribution of our Shares may be entitled to indemnification by us against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act. Underwriters, dealers and agents may engage in transactions with us, or perform services for us, in the ordinary course of business.

If so indicated in the applicable Prospectus Supplement, we will ourselves, or will authorize underwriters or other persons acting as our agents to solicit offers by certain institutions to purchase our Shares from us pursuant to contracts providing for payment and delivery on a future date. Institutions with which such contacts may be made include commercial and savings banks, insurance companies, pension funds, investment companies, educational and charitable institutions and others, but in all cases such institutions must be approved by us. The obligation of any purchaser under any such contract will be subject to the condition that the purchase of the Shares shall not at the time of delivery be prohibited under the laws of the jurisdiction to which such purchaser is subject. The underwriters and such other agents will not have any responsibility in respect of the validity or performance of such contracts. Such contracts will be subject only to those conditions set forth in the Prospectus Supplement, and the Prospectus Supplement will set forth the commission payable for solicitation of such contracts.

To the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the underwriters may from time to time act as brokers or dealers and receive fees in connection with the execution of our portfolio transactions after the underwriters have ceased to be underwriters and, subject to certain restrictions, each may act as a broker while it is an underwriter.

A Prospectus and accompanying Prospectus Supplement in electronic form may be made available on the websites maintained by underwriters. The underwriters may agree to allocate a number of securities for sale to their online brokerage account holders. Such allocations of securities for Internet distributions will be made on the same basis as other allocations. In addition, securities may be sold by the underwriters to securities dealers who resell securities to online brokerage account holders.

In order to comply with the securities laws of certain states, if applicable, our Shares offered hereby will be sold in such jurisdictions only through registered or licensed brokers or dealers.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

There are no material pending legal proceedings to which the Fund, the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser or the Sub-Adviser is a party.

TABLE OF CONTENTS OF THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

$60,000,000

Shares of Common Stock

ABERDEEN GLOBAL INCOME FUND, INC.

PROSPECTUS

February 28, 2013

Aberdeen Global Income Fund, Inc.

Statement of Additional Information

February 28, 2013

Aberdeen Global Income Fund, Inc. (the “Fund”) is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company, registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (“1940 Act”).

This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus, but should be read in conjunction with the Fund’s prospectus, dated February 28, 2013 (the “Prospectus”) and any related prospectus supplement.  The Statement of Additional Information does not include all information that a prospective investor should consider before purchasing the Fund’s shares, and investors should obtain and read the Prospectus and any related prospectus supplement prior to purchasing such shares.  Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Statement of Additional Information have the meanings ascribed to them in the Prospectus and any related prospectus supplement.

You may call 1-866-839-5233 or email InvestorRelations@aberdeen-asset.com to obtain, free of charge, copies of the Prospectus and any related prospectus supplement.  The Fund’s Prospectus is also available on the Fund’s website at www.aberdeenfco.com.  You may also obtain a copy of the Prospectus on the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov).

No person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations not contained in the Prospectus or any related prospectus supplement or in this Statement of Additional Information in connection with the offering made by the Prospectus and any related prospectus supplement, and, if given or made, such information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the Fund.  The Prospectus and any related prospectus supplement and the Statement of Additional Information do not constitute an offering by the Fund in any jurisdiction in which such offering may not lawfully be made.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

HISTORY OF THE FUND

The Fund is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act.  The Fund was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on June 28, 1991, under the name “The First Commonwealth Fund, Inc.”  Effective May 1, 2001 the Fund’s name was changed to “Aberdeen Commonwealth Income Fund, Inc.” and effective July 1, 2002, the Fund’s name was changed to “Aberdeen Global Income Fund, Inc.”

MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND

The business and affairs of the Fund are managed under the direction of the Board of Directors (“Board”).  The Board approves all significant agreements between the Fund and persons or companies furnishing services to it, including the Fund’s agreements with the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser, Sub-Adviser, Administrator, Sub-Administrator, custodian and transfer agent. The Independent Directors (as defined below) ratify the agreement with the Fund’s independent registered public accounting firm.  The officers of the Fund serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors.  Aberdeen Asset Management Asia Limited (“AAMAL” or the “Investment Manager”) serves as the investment manager to the Fund. Aberdeen Asset Management Limited serves as the investment adviser to the Fund (“AAM AU” or the “Investment Adviser”). Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited serves as the sub-adviser to the Fund (“AAML” or the “Sub-Adviser”).

The Fund’s charter and bylaws provide that the Board of Directors be divided into three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible, each of which will serve for three years, with one class being elected each year.  Each year the term of office of one class expires.  The names of the Directors and officers of the Fund, and their addresses, ages and principal occupations during the past five years, are provided in the tables below.  Directors who are deemed “interested persons” (as that term is defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act) of the Fund are included in the table entitled “Interested Directors.” Directors who are not interested persons as described above are referred to in the table below, and elsewhere in this Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”), as “Independent Directors.”

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*                                         Aberdeen Australia Equity Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Asia-Pacific Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Chile Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Israel Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Indonesia Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Latin America Equity Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Emerging Markets Telecommunications and Infrastructure Fund, Inc., The Singapore Fund, Inc., The Asia-Tigers Fund, Inc., The India Fund, Inc., The Greater China Fund, Inc., the Aberdeen Funds (which currently consists of 25 portfolios) have the same Investment Manager and Investment Adviser as the Fund, or an investment adviser that is affiliated with the Investment Manager and Investment Adviser and may thus be deemed to be part of the same “Fund Complex” as the Fund.

**                                  Mr. Gilbert is deemed to be an interested person because of his affiliation with the Fund’s Investment Manager, Investment Adviser and Investment Sub-Adviser. Mr. Gilbert serves as a Director of The India Fund, Inc. and The Asia Tigers Fund, Inc. and as a Vice President with Aberdeen Australia Equity Fund, Inc. and Aberdeen Asia-Pacific Income Fund, Inc., both of which may be deemed to be part of the same “Fund Complex” as the Fund.

Additional Information about the Directors

The Board believes that each Director’s experience, qualifications, attributes and skills on an individual basis and in combination with those of the other Directors lead to the conclusion that the Directors possess the requisite experience, qualifications, attributes and skills to serve on the Board.  The Board believes that the Directors’ ability to review critically, evaluate, question and discuss information provided to them; to interact effectively with the Investment Manager, the Investment Adviser and the Sub-Adviser (collectively, the “Advisers”), other service providers, counsel and independent auditors; and to exercise effective business judgment in the performance of their duties, support this conclusion.  The Board has also considered the contributions that each Director can make to the Board and the Fund.  A Director’s ability to perform his duties effectively may have been attained through the Director’s executive, business, consulting, and/or legal positions; experience from service as a Director of the Fund and other funds/portfolios in the Aberdeen fund complex, other investment funds, public companies, or non-profit entities or other organizations; educational background or professional training or practice; and/or other life experiences.  In this regard, the following specific experience, qualifications, attributes and/or skills apply as to each Director in addition to the information set forth in the table above: Mr. Gilbert, executive and board experience and accounting and legal background; Mr. Malone, legal background and public service leadership experience, board experience with other public and private companies, and executive and business consulting experience; Mr. Miles, financial services, investment management and executive experience and board experience with various Australian public and private companies; Mr. Potter, financial services, investment management and merchant banking experience, executive and consulting experience, and board experience with public companies and non-profit organizations; Mr. Sacks, accounting background (chartered accountant in Canada and South Africa), treasury experience in banking organizations, investment management and executive experience; and Mr. Sheehy, executive experience at venture capital and investment banking firms, as well as board experience at several public and private companies.

The Board believes that the significance of each Director’s experience, qualifications, attributes or skills is an individual matter (meaning that experience important for one Director may not have the same value for another) and that these factors are best evaluated at the Board level, with no single Director, or particular  

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factor, being indicative of Board effectiveness.  In its periodic self-assessment of the effectiveness of the Board, the Board considers the complementary individual skills and experience of the individual Directors in the broader context of the Board’s overall composition so that the Board, as a body, possesses the appropriate (and appropriately diverse) skills and experience to oversee the business of the Fund. References to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Directors are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, do not constitute holding out the Board or any Director as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof.

Officers Who Are Not Directors

The names of the officers of the Fund who are not Directors, their addresses, ages and principal occupations during the past five years are provided in the table below:

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*                          Officers hold their positions with the Fund until a successor has been duly elected and qualified. Officers are generally elected annually at the meeting of the Board of Directors next following the annual meeting of shareholders.  The officers were last elected on March 7, 2012.

**                   Messrs. Cotton, Goodson, Keener, Pittard, Griffiths, Michael and Rodriguez and Sullivan and Mses. Ferrari, Kennedy, Melia, Nichols and Sitar hold the same position with Aberdeen Australia Equity Fund, Inc. and Aberdeen Asia-Pacific Income Fund, Inc., both of which may be deemed to be part of the same “Fund Complex” as the Fund. Messrs. Cotton, Goodson, Pittard, and Sullivan and Mses. Kennedy, Melia, Nichols

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and Sitar hold officer positions with Aberdeen Funds, Aberdeen Indonesia Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Israel Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Latin America Equity Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Chile Fund, Inc., and Aberdeen Emerging Markets Telecommunications and Infrastructure Fund, Inc., which may be deemed to be part of the same “Fund Complex” as the Fund. Messrs. Goodson and Pittard and Mses. Kennedy, Melia and Nichols hold officer position with The Singapore Fund, Inc., The Asia-Tigers Fund, Inc., The Greater China Fund, Inc. and The India Fund, Inc. which may be deemed to be part of the same “Fund Complex” as the Fund.

Although the Fund is a Maryland corporation, certain of its Directors and officers (Messrs. P. Gerald Malone, Martin J. Gilbert, Neville J. Miles, Peter D. Sacks, Christian Pittard, Kevin Daly, and Victor Rodriguez) are non-residents of the United States and have all, or a substantial part, of their assets located outside the United States.  None of the Directors or officers has authorized an agent in the United States to receive notice.

The Fund’s charter and bylaws provide that the Fund shall indemnify its current and former Directors and officers against liabilities and expenses, and that such Directors and officers shall be entitled to advances from the Fund for payment of reasonable expenses incurred by them to the maximum extent permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law and the 1940 Act in connection with matters as to which they are seeking indemnification in which they may be involved because of their position with the Fund.

The Fund has entered into a separate agreement with each of the Fund’s Directors, pursuant to which the Fund has agreed to indemnify each Director against expenses reasonably incurred by such Director in a proceeding arising out of or in connection with the Director’s service to the Fund, to the maximum extent permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law and the 1940 Act.

Board and Committee Structure

The Board of Directors is composed of five Independent Directors and one Interested Director, Martin J. Gilbert. The Fund’s charter and bylaws provide that the Board shall be divided into three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible, each of which will serve for three years, with one class being elected each year. The Board has appointed Mr. Malone, an Independent Director, as Chairman. The Chairman presides at meetings of the Directors, participates in the preparation of the agenda for meetings of the Board, and acts as a liaison between the Independent Directors and the Fund’s management between Board meetings. Except for any duties specified herein, the designation of the Chairman does not impose on such Director any duties, obligations or liability that is greater than the duties, obligations or liability imposed on such person as a member of the Board, generally.

The Board holds regular quarterly meetings each year to consider and address matters involving the Fund.  The Board also may hold special meetings to address matters arising between regular meetings.  The Independent Directors also meet outside the presence of management in executive session at least quarterly and have engaged separate, independent legal counsel to assist them in performing their oversight responsibilities.

The Board has established a committee structure that includes an Audit and Valuation Committee, a Contract Review Committee, a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, a Cost Review Committee and a Leverage Committee (each discussed in more detail below) to assist the Board in the oversight and direction of the business affairs of the Fund, and from time to time may establish informal ad hoc committees or working groups to review and address the practices of the Fund with respect to specific matters.  The Committee system facilitates the timely and efficient consideration of matters by the Directors, and facilitates effective oversight of compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and of the Fund’s activities and associated risks.  The standing Committees currently conduct an annual review of their responsibilities and operations, including their charter, if any.  The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Board as a whole also conduct an annual evaluation of the performance of the Board, including consideration of the effectiveness of the Board’s committee structure.  Each Committee is comprised entirely of Independent Directors.  Each Committee member is also “independent” within the managing of the NYSE MKT listing standards.  The Board reviews its structure regularly and believes that its leadership structure, including having a super-majority of Independent Directors, coupled with an Independent Director as Chairman, is appropriate because it allows the Board to exercise informed and independent judgment over the matters under its purview and it allocates areas of responsibility among the Committees and the full Board in a manner that enhances efficient and effective oversight.

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Audit and Valuation Committee

The Audit and Valuation Committee, established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “1934 Act”), is responsible for the selection and engagement of the Fund’s independent registered public accounting firm (subject to ratification by the Fund’s Independent Directors), pre-approves and reviews both the audit and non-audit work of the Fund’s independent registered public accounting firm, and reviews compliance by the Fund with regulations of the SEC and the Internal Revenue Service, and other related matters.  The members of the Fund’s Audit and Valuation Committee are Messrs. Neville J. Miles, Peter D. Sacks and John T. Sheehy.

The Audit and Valuation Committee oversees the activities of the Fund’s Pricing Committee and performs the responsibilities assigned to the Audit and Valuation Committee in the Fund’s Valuation and Liquidity Procedures, such as overseeing the implementation of the Fund’s Valuation and Liquidity Procedures.  The Board of Directors has delegated to the Audit and Valuation Committee the responsibility of determining the fair value of the Fund’s securities or other assets in situations set forth in the Valuation and Liquidity Procedures.

Contract Review Committee

The Contract Review Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors with respect to entering into, renewing or amending the Fund’s management agreement, advisory agreement, administration agreement, investor relations services agreement and other agreements.  The members of the Fund’s Contract Review Committee are Messrs. P. Gerald Malone, Neville J. Miles, William J. Potter, Peter D. Sacks and John T. Sheehy.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee; Consideration of Potential Director Nominees

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee recommends nominations for membership on the Board of Directors and reviews and evaluates the effectiveness of the Board in its role in governing the Fund and overseeing the management of the Fund.  It evaluates candidates’ qualifications for Board membership and, with respect to nominees for positions as Independent Directors, their independence from the Fund’s Investment Manager and Investment Adviser and other principal service providers.  The Committee generally meets twice annually to identify and evaluate nominees for Director and makes its recommendations to the Board at the time of the Board’s December meeting.  The Committee also periodically reviews Director compensation and will recommend any appropriate changes to the Board as a group.  The Committee also reviews and may make recommendations to the Board relating to those issues that pertain to the effectiveness of the Board in carrying out its responsibilities in governing the Fund and overseeing the management of the Fund.  The members of the Fund’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are Messrs. P. Gerald Malone, Neville J. Miles and William J. Potter.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee may take into account a wide variety of factors in considering prospective director candidates, including (but not limited to): (i) availability (including availability to attend to Board business on short notice) and commitment of a candidate to attend meetings and perform his or her responsibilities on the Board; (ii) relevant industry and related experience; (iii) educational background; (iv) reputation; (v) financial expertise; (vi) the candidate’s ability, judgment and expertise; (vii) overall diversity of the Board’s composition; (viii) commitment to the representation of the interests of the Fund and its shareholders and (ix) actual or potential business, family or other conflicts bearing on either the candidate’s independence or the business of the Fund. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will consider potential director candidates, if any, recommended by shareholders provided that the proposed candidates: (i) satisfy any minimum qualifications of the Fund for its directors, and (ii) are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act; and (iii) are “independent” as defined in the NYSE MKT listing standards and of any exchange on which the Fund’s shares are listed.

The Fund’s bylaws contain provisions regarding minimum qualifications for directors. These include a requirement that, to qualify as a nominee for a directorship, each candidate, at the time of nomination, other than persons who were directors at the time of the adoption of the minimum qualifications, must possess at least the following specific minimum qualifications: (i) a nominee shall have at least five years’ experience in either investment management, economics, public accounting or Australian business; (ii) a nominee shall have a college undergraduate or graduate degree in economics, finance, business administration, accounting or engineering, or a professional degree in law, engineering, or medicine, from an accredited university or college

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in the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada or New Zealand, or the equivalent degree from an equivalent institution of higher learning in another country; and (iii) a nominee shall not have violated any provision of the U.S. federal or state securities laws, or comparable laws of another country.

The Fund’s bylaws also contain advance notice provisions and general procedures with respect to the submission of proposals, including the nomination of directors. Shareholders who intend to propose potential director candidates must substantiate compliance with these requirements. Notice of shareholder proposals must be provided to the Fund’s Secretary not earlier than the 150th day and not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the 120th day prior to the first anniversary of the date of the preceding year’s proxy statement. Any shareholder may obtain a copy of the Fund’s bylaws by calling the Investor Relations department of Aberdeen Asset Management Inc., the Fund’s investor relations services provider, toll-free at 1-866-839-5233, or by sending an e-mail to Aberdeen Asset Management Inc. at InvestorRelations@aberdeen-asset.com.

Cost Review Committee

The Cost Review Committee reviews on an ongoing basis the fees and expenses incurred by the Fund, to ensure that such expenses are commensurate with the services provided. The members of the Fund’s Cost Review Committee are Messrs. Neville J. Miles, Peter D. Sacks and John T. Sheehy.

Leverage Committee

The Leverage Committee monitors the Fund’s leverage and reviews leverage options for the Fund. The members of the Fund’s Leverage Committee are Messrs. P. Gerald Malone, Peter D. Sacks and John T. Sheehy.

Board Oversight of Risk Management

The Fund is subject to a number of risks, including, among others, investment, compliance, operational and valuation risks.  Risk oversight forms part of the Board’s general oversight of the Fund and is addressed as part of various Board and Committee activities.  The Board has adopted, and periodically reviews, policies and procedures designed to address these risks.  Different processes, procedures and controls are employed with respect to different types of risks.  Day-to-day risk management functions are subsumed within the responsibilities of AAMAL, who carries out the Fund’s investment management and business affairs, and also by AAM AU, AAML, and other service providers in connection with the services they provide to the Fund. Each of AAMAL, AAM AU, AAML and other service providers have their own, independent interest in risk management, and their policies and methods of risk management will depend on their functions and business models.  As part of its regular oversight of the Fund, the Board, directly and/or through a Committee, interacts with and reviews reports from, among others, AAMAL, AAM AU, AAML and the Fund’s other service providers (including the Fund’s transfer agent), the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer, the Fund’s independent registered public accounting firm, legal counsel to the Fund, and internal auditors, as appropriate, relating to the operations of the Fund. The Board also requires AAMAL to report to the Board on other matters relating to risk management on a regular and as-needed basis.  The Board recognizes that it may not be possible to identify all of the risks that may affect the Fund or to develop processes and controls to eliminate or mitigate their occurrence or effects.  The Board may, at any time and in its discretion, change the manner in which it conducts risk oversight.

Board and Committee Meetings in Fiscal 2012

During the Fund’s fiscal year ended October 31, 2012, the Board of Directors held 4 regular meetings and 1 special meetings; the Audit and Valuation Committee held 4 meetings; the Contract Review Committee held 1 meeting, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee held 2 meetings; the Cost Review Committee held 1 meeting; and the Leverage Committee held 5 meetings.

Ownership of Securities by Directors and Officers

The information as to ownership of securities which appears below is based on statements furnished to the Fund by its Directors and officers.

As of October 31, 2012, the dollar range of equity securities owned beneficially by each Director in the Fund and in any registered investment companies overseen by the Director within the same family of investment companies as the Fund was as follows:

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A. None

B. $1 - $10,000

C. $10,001 - $50,000

D. $50,001 - $100,000

E. over $100,000

*                 Aggregate Dollar Range shown includes equity securities of the Fund, and of Aberdeen Asia-Pacific Income Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Chile Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Australia Equity Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Israel Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Indonesia Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Latin America Equity Fund, Inc., Aberdeen Emerging Markets Telecommunications and Infrastructure Fund, Inc., The Singapore Fund, The India Fund, Inc., The Asia-Tigers Fund, Inc., The Greater China Fund, Inc. and Aberdeen Funds, all of which may be deemed to be in the same Family of Investment Companies.

As of October 31, 2012, none of the Independent Directors or their immediate family members owned any shares of the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser, Sub-Adviser, or of any person (other than a registered investment company) directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the Investment Manager, Investment Adviser or Sub-Adviser.

As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, none of the Independent Directors or their immediate family members owned any shares of the Fund’s principal underwriter, or of any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, the Fund’s principal underwriter.

As of October 31, 2012, the Directors and officers of the Fund owned less than 1% shares of the Fund’s common stock.

Compensation of Directors and Certain Officers

The following table sets forth information regarding compensation of Directors by the Fund and by the fund complex of which the Fund is a part for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012.  Officers of the Fund and Directors who are interested persons of the Fund do not receive any compensation directly from the Fund or any other fund in the fund complex for performing their duties as officers or Directors, respectively.

Compensation Table

Fiscal Year Ended October 31, 2012