nvcsrs
 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-CSRS
CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Investment Company Act file number: 811-21507
Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities & High Income Fund
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
525 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94105
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
C. David Messman
Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC
525 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94105
(Name and address of agent for service)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 800-643-9691
Date of fiscal year end: August 31, 2010
Date of reporting period: February 28, 2011
 
 

 


 

ITEM 1. REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS

 


 

(Graphics)
WELLS FARGO ADVANTAGE UTILITIES AND HIGH INCOME FUND
This closed-end fund is no longer offered as an initial public offering and is only offered through broker/dealers on the secondary market. A closed-end fund is not required to buy its shares back from investors upon request.

 


 

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The views expressed are as of February 28, 2011. Any reference to a specific security in this report is not a recommendation to purchase or sell any specific security or adopt any investment strategy. The views are subject to change at any time in response to changing circumstances in the market and are not intended to predict or guarantee the future performance of any individual security, market sector or the markets generally, or the Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund.
NOT FDIC INSURED NO BANK GUARANTEE MAY LOSE VALUE

 


 

2 Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Letter to Shareholders
(Karla M. Rabusch)
Dear Valued Shareholder:
We are pleased to provide you with this semi-annual report for the Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund for the six-month period that ended February 28, 2011.
While the equity markets delivered strong six-month returns against the backdrop of a strengthening economy, the period was not without its share of macroeconomic challenges, domestic and international political uncertainty, and market volatility—once again highlighting the value of a well-diversified investment strategy. As always, we believe that following such a strategy may enable investors to balance risks and opportunities as they pursue long-term financial goals in a dynamic market environment.
The economic recovery stayed on track.
The U.S. economic recovery that began in the summer of 2009 gained momentum, particularly toward the end of 2010. After expanding by an annual rate of 2.6% in the third quarter of 2010, gross domestic product accelerated to an annualized rate of 3.2% in the fourth quarter. Although the path of recovery has been uneven at times, and growth remains subpar compared with previous recoveries, the general consensus among economists is that the economy will likely avoid a double-dip recession and continue to expand, albeit slowly. We, however, think that persistent weakness in the labor and housing markets bears close watching in the months ahead.
Jobs and housing remained troublesome.
At the end of 2010, the unemployment rate stood at 9.4%—down from 9.9% a year earlier but still stubbornly high. The rate fell even further in January and February 2011 to 9.0% and 8.9%, respectively. Unfortunately, the drop may be more attributable to a decline in the labor force than to a meaningful uptick in hiring. In fact, employers added only 1.1 million jobs for all of 2010, suggesting that the improving economy has yet to translate into widespread hiring. Meanwhile, the beleaguered housing market was an ongoing source of concern, despite some tentative late-year signs of stabilization.
Other economic data was more encouraging, reflecting greater confidence in the recovery on the part of both consumers and businesses. Retail sales came in strong at certain points during the six-month period—including the critical holiday shopping season—while industrial production and new orders have picked up. Although still reluctant to hire, businesses have gradually increased spending in other areas, such as equipment and technology. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, remained benign.
The Federal Reserve continued to do its part.
With inflation subdued, the Federal Reserve (Fed) held its target range for the federal funds rate—a proxy for short-term interest rates—steady at 0% to 0.25%. In its first statement of 2011, released on January 26, the Fed explained that the most recent economic data “confirms that the economic recovery is continuing, though at a rate that has been insufficient to bring about significant improvement in labor market conditions.” The statement noted that, while consumer and business spending has risen,

 


 

Letter to Shareholders   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund 3
activity remains constrained due to modest income growth, lower housing wealth, and tight credit. As a result, the Fed indicated that it intends to keep short-term rates at historically low levels for as long as needed to promote a more robust recovery.
The Fed also stated that it plans to proceed with other stimulus measures, including its second round of quantitative easing (QE2)—a plan to purchase $600 billion in long-term Treasury securities by mid-2011. The introduction of QE2 in November 2010 marked a turning point for equity markets in that it ushered in a favorable shift in investor sentiment. By and large, investors interpreted the plan as further evidence of the Fed’s commitment to stabilizing the rate of inflation and spurring economic growth.
The second half of 2010 was a solid year for equities.
QE2 was certainly not the only catalyst for equity markets during the period. Along with more upbeat economic data, better-than-expected corporate earnings played a role in driving stock prices higher. Throughout the past year, quarterly earnings per share for the majority of companies in the S&P 500 Index consistently exceeded Wall Street estimates. As 2010 drew to a close, the midterm congressional elections and the extension of the Bush-era tax cuts provided additional tailwinds, helping the markets finish the six-month period on a strong note.
The broad equity market indexes posted exceptionally strong returns during the period. The S&P 500 Index1 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average2 advanced 27.7% and 23.6%, respectively, and the tech-heavy NASDAQ Composite Index3 returned 32.4%. Within the fixed-income markets, the broad-based investment-grade BofA Merrill Lynch U.S. Corporate, Government and Mortgage Index4 posted a -1.06% return, while the BofA Merrill Lynch High-Yield Master II Index5 returned 9.81%.
 
1.   The S&P 500 Index consists of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation. It is a market-value weighted index with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value. You cannot invest directly in an index.
 
2.   The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 “blue-chip” industrial U.S. stocks. You cannot invest directly in an index.
 
3.   The NASDAQ Composite Index measures the market value of all domestic and foreign common stocks, representing a wide array of more than 5,000 companies, listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market. You cannot invest directly in an index.
 
4.   The BofA Merrill Lynch U.S. Corporate, Government and Mortgage Index tracks the performance of US dollar-denominated investment grade Government and Corporate public debt issued in the US Domestic bond market, including Mortgage Pass-Through securities but excluding Asset Backed securities. Qualifying bonds must have at least one year remaining term to maturity, a fixed coupon schedule and a minimum outstanding of $1 billion for US Treasuries and $150 million for all other securities. Bonds must be rated investment grade based on a composite of Moody’s and S&P. (NOTE: Index formerly named Merrill Lynch U.S. Domestic Master Index — name changed in 2006 or 2007 to be more descriptive). You cannot invest directly in an index.
 
5.   The BofA Merrill Lynch High Yield Master II Index is a market capitalization-weighted index of domestic and Yankee high-yield bonds. The index tracks the performance of high-yield securities traded in the U.S. bond market. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 


 

4 Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Letter to Shareholders
Diversification and fundamentally sound investments remain the focus of the Fund.
As always, the management teams of the Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund remained focused on pursuing a high level of current income and moderate capital growth for investors. Throughout the period, the utility sleeve continued to be managed with a relatively modest weight to companies with direct natural gas exposure and companies that are selectively invested in telecommunications. In an effort to generate a good level of income, the portfolio managers remained focused on investment opportunities, such as preferred stocks, that are offering a higher level of income relative to comparable assets. Within the high-yield sleeve, the portfolio managers continued to position the Fund’s bond allocation defensively, with a focus on avoiding what they view as uncompensated risk. As an example, they have avoided overleveraged companies and have reduced the portfolio’s exposure to issues with greater interest-rate sensitivity.
Investors should keep a long-term perspective.
In our view, the equity markets’ dramatic rebound over the past two years from a severe downturn underscores the importance of maintaining a disciplined, long-term investment strategy through changing market cycles. By staying focused on your long-term goals, you may be better positioned to both navigate falling markets and participate in rising markets.
To help you build a well-diversified strategy based on your personal objectives and risk tolerance, Wells Fargo Advantage Funds® offers more than 120 mutual funds and other investments covering a wide range of asset classes and investment styles. Although diversification cannot guarantee an investment profit or prevent losses, we believe it can be an effective way to manage investment risk and potentially smooth out overall portfolio performance.
Thank you for choosing Wells Fargo Advantage Funds. We appreciate your continued confidence in us and are committed to helping you meet your financial needs. If you have any questions about your investments, please contact your investment professional, call us at 1-800-222-8222, or visit www.wellsfargo.com/advantagefunds.
Sincerely,
/s/ Karla M. Rabusch
 
Karla M. Rabusch
President
Wells Fargo Advantage Funds

 


 

Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund 5
Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders
Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be held on June 13, 2011 at 10 a.m. Pacific time, at the offices of Wells Fargo Advantage Funds®, 525 Market Street, 12th Floor, San Francisco, California 94105.
There are no items currently on the meeting agenda for shareholder consideration. Pursuant to a special meeting held on July 9, 2010, Fund shareholders have already elected Trustees through the 2011 annual shareholder meeting. To the extent necessary, shareholders will be able to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.
Any Shareholder desiring to present a proposal for consideration at the 2011 annual meeting of Shareholders of the Fund to be included in the Fund’s proxy materials should submit such a timely proposal in writing to the Secretary, c/o Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund, 525 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94105 by the close of business on or before July 2, 2011.
Any Shareholder desiring to present a proposal for consideration at the 2011 annual meeting of Shareholders of the Fund that will not be included in the Fund’s proxy materials should submit such a timely proposal in writing to the Secretary, c/o Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund, 525 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94105 by the close of business on or before August 1, 2011, but no earlier than July 2, 2011.
Mere submission of a proposal does not guarantee inclusion of the proposal in the proxy statement or presentation of the proposal at the 2011 annual meeting since such inclusion and presentation are subject to various conditions and requirements, including those required by applicable law.

 


 

6 Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
                                 
Principal     Security Name   Interest Rate     Maturity Date     Value  
Corporate Bonds and Notes: 28.14%                        
       
 
                       
Consumer Discretionary: 4.76%                        
       
 
                       
Auto Components: 0.51%                        
$ 215,000    
Cooper Tire & Rubber Company
    7.63 %     03/15/2027     $ 207,475  
  335,000    
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    10.50       05/15/2016       381,900  
       
 
                    589,375  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Automobiles: 0.21%                        
  235,000    
Ford Motor Credit Company
    9.88       08/10/2011       242,759  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Diversified Consumer Services: 0.96%                        
  185,000    
Carriage Services Incorporated
    7.88       01/15/2015       187,775  
  75,000    
Service Corporation International
    6.75       04/01/2016       79,688  
  40,000    
Service Corporation International
    8.00       11/15/2021       43,800  
  465,000    
Service Corporation International
    7.50       04/01/2027       454,538  
  325,000    
Stonemor Partners LP††
    10.25       12/01/2017       340,438  
       
 
                    1,106,239  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure: 0.86%                        
  125,000    
Ameristar Casinos Incorporated
    9.25       06/01/2014       134,375  
  75,000    
Burger King Corporation
    9.88       10/15/2018       80,063  
  100,000    
Chukchansi Economic Development Authority
    3.94       11/15/2012       75,250  
  25,000    
Citycenter Holdings LLC
    7.63       01/15/2016       26,063  
  50,000    
Citycenter Holdings LLC
    11.50       01/15/2017       52,250  
  50,000    
DineEquity Incorporated
    9.50       10/30/2018       54,125  
  225,000    
Greektown Superholdings
    13.00       07/01/2015       255,375  
  60,000    
Scientific Games Corporation
    9.25       06/15/2019       65,850  
  120,000    
Speedway Motorsports Incorporated
    8.75       06/01/2016       131,850  
  25,000    
Speedway Motorsports Incorporated
    6.75       02/01/2019       25,375  
  75,000    
Yonkers Racing Corporation
    11.38       07/15/2016       84,188  
       
 
                    984,764  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Household Durables: 0.01%                        
  9,000    
Sealy Mattress Corporation††
    10.88       04/15/2016       10,215  
       
 
                     
Media: 1.99%                        
  145,000    
Cablevision Systems Corporation††
    8.63       09/15/2017       162,400  
  605,000    
CCH II Capital Corporation
    13.50       11/30/2016       732,806  
  595,000    
Charter Communications Incorporated Step Bondºº††
    10.88       09/15/2014       668,631  
  115,000    
DISH DBS Corporation
    7.88       09/01/2019       124,631  
  50,000    
Gray Television Incorporated
    10.50       06/29/2015       53,125  
  25,000    
Interactive Data Corporation
    10.25       08/01/2018       28,000  
  25,000    
Lamar Media Corporation Series C
    9.75       04/01/2014       29,063  
  75,000    
LIN Television Corporation††
    8.38       04/15/2018       81,563  
  75,000    
Nal Enter Holdings LLC
    8.25       12/15/2017       80,625  
  200,000    
Regal Cinemas Corporation
    8.63       07/15/2019       214,500  
  96,000    
Salem Communications Corporation
    9.63       12/15/2016       105,360  
       
 
                    2,280,704  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Specialty Retail: 0.02%                        
  25,000    
Rent-A-Center Incorporated
    6.63       11/15/2020       24,688  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods: 0.20%                        
  200,000    
Oxford Industries Incorporated
    11.38       07/15/2015       225,000  
       
 
                     

 


 

Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund 7
                                 
Principal     Security Name   Interest Rate     Maturity Date     Value  
Consumer Staples: 0.26%                        
       
 
                       
Food Products: 0.26%                        
$ 50,000    
Blue Merger Incorporated
    7.63 %     02/15/2019     $ 50,500  
  25,000    
Darling International Incorporated
    8.50       12/15/2018       26,969  
  181,000    
Dole Food Company Incorporated
    13.88       03/15/2014       221,499  
       
 
                    298,968  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Energy: 4.31%                        
       
 
                       
Energy Equipment & Services: 0.77%                        
  110,000    
Bristow Group Incorporated
    7.50       09/15/2017       115,775  
  225,000    
Gulfmark Offshore Incorporated
    7.75       07/15/2014       228,375  
  260,000    
Hornbeck Offshore Services Incorporated Series B
    6.13       12/01/2014       260,650  
  55,000    
Hornbeck Offshore Services Incorporated Series B
    8.00       09/01/2017       56,444  
  200,000    
PHI Incorporated
    8.63       10/15/2018       209,500  
  10,000    
Pride International Incorporated
    8.50       06/15/2019       12,200  
       
 
                    882,944  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 3.54%                        
  255,000    
Chesapeake Energy Corporation
    9.50       02/15/2015       316,200  
  45,000    
Coffeyville Resources Energy Incorporated††
    9.00       04/01/2015       49,050  
  100,000    
Coffeyville Resources Energy Incorporated††
    10.88       04/01/2017       113,250  
  20,000    
Connacher Oil & Gas Limited††
    11.75       07/15/2014       21,650  
  55,000    
Connacher Oil & Gas Limited††
    10.25       12/15/2015       58,163  
  165,000    
Consol Energy Incorporated††
    8.25       04/01/2020       181,913  
  25,000    
Denbury Resources Incorporated
    8.25       02/15/2020       27,813  
  25,000    
Denbury Resources Incorporated
    6.38       08/15/2021       25,250  
  75,000    
El Paso Corporation
    7.25       06/01/2018       84,831  
  45,000    
El Paso Corporation
    6.50       09/15/2020       47,911  
  100,000    
El Paso Corporation
    7.80       08/01/2031       105,803  
  90,000    
El Paso Corporation
    7.42       02/15/2037       89,177  
  250,000    
Energy Transfer Equity LP
    7.50       10/15/2020       270,938  
  100,000    
Ferrellgas LP
    9.13       10/01/2017       110,500  
  50,000    
Ferrellgas LP
    6.50       05/01/2021       48,750  
  65,000    
Forest Oil Corporation
    8.50       02/15/2014       72,313  
  95,000    
Forest Oil Corporation
    7.25       06/15/2019       98,325  
  220,000    
Holly Corporation
    9.88       06/15/2017       244,750  
  50,000    
Inergy LP
    6.88       08/01/2021       51,125  
  55,000    
Newfield Exploration Company
    6.88       02/01/2020       58,438  
  50,000    
OPTI Canada Incorporated
    8.25       12/15/2014       27,250  
  390,000    
Peabody Energy Corporation
    7.88       11/01/2026       436,800  
  10,000    
Penn Virginia Corporation
    10.38       06/15/2016       11,225  
  60,000    
Petrohawk Energy Corporation
    10.50       08/01/2014       69,000  
  95,000    
Petrohawk Energy Corporation
    7.88       06/01/2015       100,700  
  145,000    
Pioneer Natural Resource Company
    7.50       01/15/2020       162,805  
  325,000    
Plains Exploration & Production Company
    8.63       10/15/2019       363,188  
  25,000    
Regency Energy Partners
    6.88       12/01/2018       26,250  
  250,000    
Sabine Pass LNG LP††
    7.25       11/30/2013       253,750  
  125,000    
Sabine Pass LNG LP
    7.50       11/30/2016       126,563  
  90,000    
Sandridge Energy Incorporated††
    8.75       01/15/2020       97,200  
  49,000    
Stallion Oilfield Holdings Incorporated††
    10.50       02/15/2015       53,165  
  25,000    
Suburban Propane Partners LP
    7.38       03/15/2020       26,750  
  125,000    
Tesoro Corporation
    7.50       07/17/2012       128,750  
  90,000    
Tesoro Corporation
    9.75       06/01/2019       101,475  
       
 
                    4,061,021  
       
 
                     

 


 

8 Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
                                 
Principal     Security Name   Interest Rate     Maturity Date     Value  
Financials: 6.14%                        
 
Capital Markets: 0.32%                        
$ 68,000    
E*TRADE Financial Corporation
    12.50 %     11/30/2017     $ 80,580  
  175,000    
Nuveen Investments Incorporated
    5.50       09/15/2015       153,125  
  125,000    
Nuveen Investments Incorporated
    10.50       11/15/2015       127,813  
 
       
 
                    361,518  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Commercial Banks: 0.92%                        
  215,000    
CapitalSource Incorporated††
    12.75       07/15/2014       258,000  
  781,417    
Citigroup Incorporated
    7.00       05/01/2013       797,046  
 
       
 
                    1,055,046  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Consumer Finance: 2.78%                        
  125,000    
American General Finance Corporation
    5.40       12/01/2015       113,125  
  50,000    
American General Finance Corporation
    5.75       09/15/2016       44,313  
  50,000    
American General Finance Corporation
    6.50       09/15/2017       44,250  
  125,000    
American General Finance Corporation
    6.90       12/15/2017       112,188  
  125,000    
Calpine Construction Finance Corporation††
    8.00       06/01/2016       135,625  
  130,000    
Clearwire Communications Finance Corporation
    12.00       12/01/2015       141,700  
  6,000    
GMAC LLC
    6.88       09/15/2011       6,135  
  146,000    
GMAC LLC
    6.88       08/28/2012       154,760  
  36,000    
GMAC LLC
    6.75       12/01/2014       38,520  
  144,801    
Homer City Funding LLC
    8.73       10/01/2026       132,493  
  75,000    
International Lease Finance Corporation††
    8.63       09/15/2015       84,563  
  140,000    
International Lease Finance Corporation
    4.75       01/13/2012       142,275  
  275,000    
International Lease Finance Corporation
    5.30       05/01/2012       280,088  
  50,000    
International Lease Finance Corporation Series MTN
    5.75       06/15/2011       50,275  
  420,000    
JBS USA Finance Incorporated
    11.63       05/01/2014       491,400  
  49,000    
Nielsen Finance LLC Company
    11.50       05/01/2016       57,698  
  125,000    
Nielsen Finance LLC Company
    7.75       10/15/2018       135,156  
  285,000    
Sprint Capital Corporation
    8.38       03/15/2012       302,456  
  120,000    
Sprint Capital Corporation
    6.90       05/01/2019       121,050  
  675,000    
Sprint Capital Corporation
    6.88       11/15/2028       608,344  
 
       
 
                    3,196,414  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Diversified Financial Services: 1.15%                        
  825,000    
Ally Financial Incorporated††
    8.30       02/12/2015       931,219  
  38,000    
Dunkin Finance Corporation
    9.63       12/01/2018       38,475  
  313,000    
Leucadia National Corporation
    8.13       09/15/2015       344,300  
 
       
 
                    1,313,994  
       
 
                     
Insurance: 0.23%                        
  225,000    
Emigrant Bancorp Incorporated(i)
    6.25       06/15/2014       187,596  
  75,000    
Hub International Holdings Incorporated
    10.25       06/15/2015       78,000  
 
       
 
                    265,596  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): 0.74%                        
  565,000    
Dupont Fabros Technology Incorporated
    8.50       12/15/2017       622,913  
  30,000    
Host Marriott Corporation
    9.00       05/15/2017       33,675  
  100,000    
Omega Healthcare Investors Incorporated
    6.75       10/15/2022       101,000  
  90,000    
Ventas Incorporated
    9.00       05/01/2012       96,134  
 
       
 
                    853,722  
       
 
                     

 


 

Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund 9
                                 
Principal     Security Name   Interest Rate     Maturity Date     Value  
Health Care: 1.20%                        
       
 
                       
Health Care Equipment & Supplies: 0.20%                        
$ 60,000    
Biomet Incorporated
    10.38 %     10/15/2017     $ 67,125  
  100,000    
Biomet Incorporated
    11.63       10/15/2017       112,750  
  50,000    
Fresenius Medical Care Incorporated
    5.75       02/15/2021       48,375  
 
       
 
                    228,250  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Health Care Providers & Services: 0.88%                        
  120,000    
Apria Healthcare Group††
    11.25       11/01/2014       129,900  
  100,000    
Aviv Healthcare Properties LP
    7.75       02/15/2019       104,250  
  400,000    
HCA Incorporated
    9.25       11/15/2016       432,000  
  129,000    
HCA Incorporated
    9.63       11/15/2016       139,965  
  25,000    
Healthsouth Corporation
    7.25       10/01/2018       25,938  
  25,000    
Healthsouth Corporation
    7.75       09/15/2022       26,031  
  50,000    
Omnicare Incorporated
    6.88       12/15/2015       51,625  
  100,000    
Sabra Health Care Corporation
    8.13       11/01/2018       105,500  
 
       
 
                    1,015,209  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Life Sciences Tools & Services: 0.05%                        
  50,000    
Community Health Systems Incorporated Series WI
    8.88       07/15/2015       53,000  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Pharmaceuticals: 0.07%                        
  25,000    
Mylan Incorporated††
    7.63       07/15/2017       27,469  
  25,000    
Mylan Incorporated
    7.88       07/15/2020       27,938  
  25,000    
Mylan Incorporated
    6.00       11/15/2018       25,594  
       
 
                    81,001  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Industrials: 2.64%                        
       
 
                       
Aerospace & Defense: 1.06%                        
  225,000    
Alliant Techsystems Incorporated
    6.75       04/01/2016       232,313  
  50,000    
Digitalglobe Incorporated
    10.50       05/01/2014       56,813  
  55,000    
Geoeye Incorporated††
    9.63       10/01/2015       62,013  
  53,000    
Hexcel Corporation
    6.75       02/01/2015       54,391  
  130,000    
Kratos Defense & Security††
    10.00       06/01/2017       146,575  
  216,000    
L-3 Communications Holdings Incorporated
    5.88       01/15/2015       220,212  
  360,000    
L-3 Communications Holdings Incorporated
    6.38       10/15/2015       371,700  
  70,000    
Wyle Services Corporation††
    10.50       04/01/2018       72,450  
 
       
 
                    1,216,467  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Commercial Services & Supplies: 0.85%                        
  25,000    
Brickman Group Holdings
    9.13       11/01/2018       26,875  
  220,000    
Casella Waste Systems Incorporated
    11.00       07/15/2014       249,700  
  25,000    
Casella Waste Systems Incorporated
    7.75       02/15/2019       25,625  
  60,000    
Corrections Corporation of America
    6.25       03/15/2013       60,075  
  95,000    
Corrections Corporation of America
    7.75       06/01/2017       104,025  
  100,000    
Geo Group Incorporated
    7.75       10/15/2017       106,625  
  155,000    
Iron Mountain Incorporated
    8.38       08/15/2021       171,469  
  75,000    
Kar Holdings Incorporated
    4.30       05/01/2014       74,063  
  25,000    
Kar Holdings Incorporated
    10.00       05/01/2015       26,500  
  150,000    
NCO Group Incorporated
    11.88       11/15/2014       133,875  
 
       
 
                    978,832  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Construction & Engineering: 0.18%                        
  200,000    
GCI Incorporated
    7.25       02/15/2014       202,000  
       
 
                     

 


 

10 Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
                                 
Principal     Security Name   Interest Rate     Maturity Date     Value  
Industrial Conglomerates: 0.21%                        
$ 215,000    
Otter Tail Corporation
    9.00 %     12/15/2016     $ 243,488  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Machinery: 0.29%                        
  55,000    
Cleaver-Brooks Incorporated††
    12.25       05/01/2016       59,125  
  50,000    
Columbus Mckinnon Corporation
    7.88       02/01/2019       51,750  
  181,050    
Commercial Vehicle Group Incorporated††
    11.00       02/15/2013       193,724  
  25,000    
Titan International Incorporated
    7.88       10/01/2017       26,750  
 
       
 
                    331,349  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Road & Rail: 0.05%                        
  50,000    
RailAmerica Incorporated
    9.25       07/01/2017       55,375  
       
 
                       
Information Technology: 2.05%                        
       
 
                       
Communications Equipment: 0.25%                        
  155,000    
Lucent Technologies Incorporated
    6.45       03/15/2029       134,850  
  160,000    
Lucent Technologies Incorporated Series B
    2.88       06/15/2025       155,600  
 
       
 
                    290,450  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Computers & Peripherals: 0.16%                        
  50,000    
Seagate Technology HDD Holdings
    6.80       10/01/2016       52,188  
  100,000    
Seagate Technology HDD Holdings
    7.75       12/15/2018       102,500  
  25,000    
Seagate Technology HDD Holdings
    6.88       05/01/2020       24,500  
 
       
 
                    179,188  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Electronic Equipment & Instruments: 1.05%                        
  105,000    
Intcomex Incorporated††
    13.25       12/15/2014       111,825  
  620,000    
Jabil Circuit Incorporated
    8.25       03/15/2018       705,250  
  160,000    
Kemet Corporation††
    10.50       05/01/2018       181,600  
  50,000    
Sungard Data Systems Incorporated
    7.38       11/15/2018       51,625  
  25,000    
Sungard Data Systems Incorporated
    7.63       11/15/2020       25,813  
  115,000    
Viasystem Group Incorporated††
    12.00       01/15/2015       130,238  
 
       
 
                    1,206,351  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Internet Software & Services: 0.25%                        
  95,000    
Equinix Incorporated
    8.13       03/01/2018       103,075  
  150,000    
Terremark Worldwide Incorporated
    12.00       06/15/2017       186,000  
 
       
 
                    289,075  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
IT Services: 0.34%                        
  225,000    
SunGard Data Systems Incorporated
    10.25       08/15/2015       237,094  
  70,000    
Unisys Corporation††
    12.75       10/15/2014       82,775  
  55,000    
Unisys Corporation††
    14.25       09/15/2015       65,588  
 
       
 
                    385,457  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Materials: 1.66%                        
       
 
                       
Chemicals: 0.51%                        
  140,000    
Huntsman International LLC††
    5.50       06/30/2016       138,250  
  75,000    
LBI Escrow Corporation
    8.00       11/01/2017       84,422  
  240,241    
Lyondell Chemical Company
    11.00       05/01/2018       275,677  
  50,000    
Solutia Incorporated
    7.88       03/15/2020       55,000  
  25,000    
Vertellus Specialties
    9.38       10/01/2015       26,891  
 
       
 
                    580,240  
       
 
                     

 


 

Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund 11
                                 
Principal     Security Name   Interest Rate     Maturity Date     Value  
Construction Materials: 0.29%                        
$ 150,000    
CPG International Incorporated
    10.63 %     09/01/2014     $ 162,375  
  145,000    
Headwaters Incorporated
    11.38       11/01/2014       170,375  
 
       
 
                    332,750  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Containers & Packaging: 0.34%                        
  280,000    
Exopack Holding Corporation
    11.25       02/01/2014       290,150  
  100,000    
Graham Packaging Company Incorporated
    9.88       10/15/2014       103,500  
 
       
 
                    393,650  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Metals & Mining: 0.28%                        
  295,000    
Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Incorporated
    8.38       04/01/2017       327,450  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Paper & Forest Products: 0.24%                        
  70,000    
Clearwater Paper Corporation††
    10.63       06/15/2016       79,975  
  38,000    
Georgia-Pacific Corporation††
    7.00       01/15/2015       39,330  
  125,000    
Georgia-Pacific Corporation
    8.88       05/15/2031       152,813  
 
       
 
                    272,118  
       
 
                     
Telecommunication Services: 2.74%                        
       
 
                       
Diversified Telecommunication Services: 1.53%                        
  475,000    
Citizens Communications Company
    7.88       01/15/2027       458,375  
  140,000    
Frontier Communications Corporation
    8.25       05/01/2014       157,325  
  60,000    
Frontier Communications Corporation
    8.13       10/01/2018       66,675  
  350,000    
Qwest Corporation
    8.88       03/15/2012       375,813  
  20,000    
Qwest Corporation
    7.63       08/03/2021       20,600  
  180,000    
Qwest Corporation
    7.50       06/15/2023       180,450  
  50,000    
SBA Telecommunications Incorporated
    8.00       08/15/2016       54,500  
  25,000    
SBA Telecommunications Incorporated
    8.25       08/15/2019       27,563  
  125,000    
U.S. West Communications Incorporated
    7.25       09/15/2025       131,875  
  265,000    
Windstream Corporation
    7.88       11/01/2017       287,856  
 
       
 
                    1,761,032  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Wireless Telecommunication Services: 1.21%                        
  75,000    
Allbritton Communications Company
    8.00       05/15/2018       78,563  
  50,000    
CC Holdings GS V LLC
    7.75       05/01/2017       55,188  
  150,000    
Cricket Communications Incorporated Series I
    7.75       05/15/2016       158,625  
  10,000    
Crown Castle International Corporation
    7.13       11/01/2019       10,638  
  276,000    
Intelsat Subsidiary Holding Company Limited
    8.50       01/15/2013       277,725  
  50,000    
MetroPCS Communications Incorporated
    7.88       09/01/2018       52,813  
  175,000    
MetroPCS Communications Incorporated
    6.63       11/15/2020       170,406  
  475,000    
Sprint Nextel Corporation Series D
    7.38       08/01/2015       476,188  
  100,000    
Syniverse Holdings Incorporated
    9.13       01/15/2019       108,000  
 
       
 
                    1,388,146  
       
 
                     
Utilities: 2.39%                        
 
Electric Utilities: 1.82%                        
  794,000    
Aquila Incorporated Step Bondºº
    11.88       07/01/2012       890,130  
  46,751    
Energy Future Holdings Corporation
    12.00       11/01/2017       38,219  
  438,432    
Mirant Mid-Atlantic LLC Series C
    10.06       12/30/2028       495,429  
  200,000    
NRG Energy Incorporated
    7.38       02/01/2016       207,000  
  250,000    
NRG Energy Incorporated
    7.38       01/15/2017       263,438  
  185,000    
NRG Energy Incorporated
    8.50       06/15/2019       197,025  
 
       
 
                    2,091,241  
       
 
                     

 


 

12 Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
                                 
Principal     Security Name   Interest Rate     Maturity Date     Value  
Gas Utilities: 0.05%                        
$ 50,000    
AmeriGas Partners LP
    6.50 %     05/20/2021     $ 51,500  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders: 0.52%                        
  250,000    
Calpine Construction Finance Corporation
    7.25       10/15/2017       261,875  
  190,000    
Dynegy Holding Incorporated
    7.63       10/15/2026       126,350  
  108,798    
Reliant Energy Incorporated
    9.24       07/02/2017       116,414  
  10,000    
Reliant Energy Incorporated
    9.68       07/02/2026       10,700  
  50,000    
RRI Energy Incorporated
    7.63       06/15/2014       52,250  
  30,000    
RRI Energy Incorporated
    7.88       06/15/2017       30,075  
       
 
                    597,664  
       
 
                     
 
Total Corporate Bonds and Notes (Cost $29,791,786)                     32,304,250  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Yankee Corporate Bonds and Notes: 0.98%                        
       
 
                       
Consumer Discretionary: 0.07%                        
       
 
                       
Media: 0.07%                        
  75,000    
Videotron Limited
    9.13       04/15/2018       84,188  
       
 
                     
Energy: 0.34%                        
       
 
                       
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 0.34%                        
  100,000    
General Maritime Corporation
    12.00       11/15/2017       91,750  
  321,000    
Griffin Coal Mining Company Limited^^††
    9.50       12/31/2049       272,048  
  60,000    
OPTI Canada Incorporated
    7.88       12/15/2014       32,700  
 
       
 
                    396,498  
       
 
                     
Financials: 0.25%                        
       
 
                       
Capital Markets: 0.05%                        
  50,000    
FMC Finance III SA
    6.88       07/15/2017       52,688  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Consumer Finance: 0.11%                        
  110,000    
Wind Acquisition Finance SA††
    11.75       07/15/2017       126,225  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Diversified Financial Services: 0.09%                        
  105,000    
Ship Finance International Limited
    8.50       12/15/2013       106,838  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Materials: 0.29%                        
       
 
                       
Metals & Mining: 0.16%  
                       
  50,000    
Novelis Incorporated
    8.38       12/15/2017       55,125  
  50,000    
Novelis Incorporated
    8.75       12/15/2020       55,125  
  55,000    
Teck Resources Limited
    10.75       05/15/2019       70,857  
 
       
 
                    181,107  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Paper & Forest Products: 0.13%                        
  55,000    
Sappi Limited††
    6.75       06/15/2012       57,338  
  100,000    
Sappi Limited††
    7.50       06/15/2032       90,263  
 
       
 
                    147,601  
       
 
                     
Telecommunication Services: 0.03%                        
       
 
                       
Diversified Telecommunication Services: 0.01%                        
  5,000    
Global Crossing Limited
    12.00       09/15/2015       5,738  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Wireless Telecommunication Services: 0.02%                        
  20,000    
Digicel Group Limited††
    12.00       04/01/2014       23,450  
       
 
                     
       
 
                       
Total Yankee Corporate Bonds and Notes (Cost $1,024,376)                     1,124,333  
       
 
                     

 


 

Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund     13
                     
    Shares     Security Name   Value  
Common Stocks: 69.61%        
 
                   
Consumer Discretionary: 1.07%        
 
                   
Media: 1.07%        
 
    47,900     Comcast Corporation Class A   $ 1,233,873  
 
                 
 
                   
Energy: 5.64%        
 
                   
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 5.64%        
 
    9,200     Enbridge Incorporated     551,080  
 
    15,000     EQT Corporation     739,500  
 
    25,000     Southwestern Energy Company     987,000  
 
    100,000     Spectra Energy Corporation     2,675,000  
 
    50,000     The Williams Companies Incorporated     1,518,000  
 
                   
 
                6,470,580  
 
                 
 
                   
Financials: 4.51%        
 
                   
Capital Markets: 0.50%        
 
    35,600     optionsXpress Holdings Incorporated     577,076  
 
                 
 
                   
Consumer Finance: 4.01%        
 
    10,000     MasterCard Incorporated     2,405,600  
 
    30,000     Visa Incorporated Class A     2,191,500  
 
                4,597,100  
 
                 
 
                   
Industrials: 0.11%        
 
                   
Construction & Engineering: 0.11%        
 
    9,000     Ameresco Incorporated Class A     129,780  
 
                 
 
                   
Information Technology: 0.18%        
 
                   
IT Services: 0.18%        
 
    15,000     Convergys Corporation     211,050  
 
                 
 
                   
Telecommunication Services: 8.69%        
 
                   
Diversified Telecommunication Services: 2.22%        
 
    16,000     BCE Incorporated     593,920  
 
    40,000     Shenandoah Telecommunications Company(i)     700,000  
 
    100,000     Windstream Corporation     1,254,000  
 
                2,547,920  
 
                 
 
                   
Wireless Telecommunication Services: 6.47%        
 
    585,000     Portugal Telecom SGPS SA ADR     6,844,500  
 
    12,000     Vivo Participacoes SA ADR     441,720  
 
    5,000     Vodafone Group plc ADR     143,100  
 
                7,429,320  
 
                 
 
                   
Utilities: 49.41%        
 
                   
Electric Utilities: 27.37%        
 
    600     American Electric Power Company Incorporated     21,468  
 
    50,000     CenterPoint Energy Incorporated     793,000  
 
    500     CH Energy Group Incorporated     24,530  
 
    5,000     Chesapeake Midstream Partner LP     130,200  
 
    200     Chesapeake Utilities Corporation     8,168  
 
    10,000     China Hydroelectric Company ADR†     70,800  
 
    75,000     DPL Incorporated     1,951,500  

 


 

14       Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
                             
    Shares     Security Name           Value  
Electric Utilities (continued)                
 
    500     Duke Energy Corporation           $ 8,995  
 
    2,000     Edison International             74,240  
 
    1,000     Entergy Corporation             71,200  
 
    70,000     Exelon Corporation             2,923,200  
 
    25,000     FirstEnergy Corporation             957,500  
 
    150,000     Great Plains Energy Incorporated             2,880,000  
 
    200,000     Hawaiian Electric Industries Incorporated             4,830,000  
 
    36,000     ITC Holdings Corporation             2,467,800  
 
    5,000,000     Mirant Corporation Escrow(i)(a)†             0  
 
    70,000     Nextera Energy Incorporated             3,882,900  
 
    150,000     Northeast Utilities             5,106,000  
 
    1,000     NSTAR             45,150  
 
    75,000     NV Energy Incorporated             1,101,750  
 
    100     Pepco Holdings Incorporated             1,873  
 
    75,000     Portland General Electric Company             1,756,500  
 
    400     Progress Energy Incorporated             18,289  
 
    200     South Jersey Industries Incorporated             10,972  
 
    60,000     The Southern Company             2,286,600  
 
                           
 
                        31,422,635  
 
                         
 
                           
Gas Utilities: 8.24%                
 
    25,000     El Paso Corporation             465,000  
 
    500     MDU Resources Group Incorporated             10,735  
 
    40,000     National Fuel Gas Company             2,916,000  
 
    200     New Jersey Resources Corporation             8,366  
 
    100,000     Niska Gas Storage Partners             2,025,000  
 
    48,500     ONEOK Incorporated             4,032,775  
 
                           
 
                        9,457,876  
 
                         
 
                           
Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders: 2.71%                
 
    100,000     Constellation Energy Group Incorporated             3,107,000  
 
                         
 
                           
Multi-Utilities: 6.29%                
 
    300     Dominion Resources Incorporated             13,689  
 
    96,000     PG&E Corporation             4,421,760  
 
    50,000     Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated             1,635,000  
 
    19,900     Sempra Energy             1,059,277  
 
    1,500     Wisconsin Energy Corporation             88,800  
 
                           
 
                        7,218,526  
 
                         
 
                           
Water Utilities: 4.80%                
 
    50,000     American Water Works Company Incorporated             1,387,000  
 
    25,000     Middlesex Water Company             469,250  
 
    130,000     Pennichuck Corporation(i)             3,655,600  
 
                           
 
                        5,511,850  
 
                         
 
                           
Total Common Stocks (Cost $69,123,775)             79,914,586    
 
                           
Preferred Stocks: 11.60%                
 
                           
Utilities: 11.60%                
 
                           
Electric Utilities: 7.58%
  Yield        
 
    50,000     Great Plains Energy Incorporated     4.62 %     3,132,500  
 
    136,613     Interstate Power & Light Company     3.87       3,893,471  
 
    21,082     Union Electric Company     3.21       1,678,638  
 
                           
 
                        8,704,609  
 
                         

 


 

Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund     15
                                 
    Shares     Security Name   Yield         Value  
Multi-Utilities: 4.02%                    
 
    165,000     Scana Corporation     3.21 %       $ 4,611,750  
 
                             
 
                               
Total Preferred Stocks (Cost $12,828,379)                 13,316,359  
 
                           
 
                               
Warrants: 0.00%          
Expiration Date
       
 
                               
Electric Utilities: 0.00%                    
 
    10,000     China Hydroelectric Company ADR†           01/25/2014     2,700  
 
                               
Total Warrants (Cost $12,000)                 2,700  
 
                           
 
                               
Investment Companies: 0.06%                    
 
    3,152     Dreyfus High Yield Strategies Fund Incorporated                 14,688  
 
    1,700     Eaton Vance Limited Duration Income Trust               26,826  
 
    2,603     New America High Income Fund Incorporated               26,707  
 
                               
Total Investment Companies (Cost $34,145)                 68,221  
 
                           
                                 
Principal         Interest Rate     Maturity Date          
Term Loans: 2.85%                        
$ 148,500    
Blackstone Group LP
    7.75       11/02/2014       151,470  
  233,117    
Capital Automotive REIT
    4.75       12/14/2012       241,859  
  125,000    
CCM Merger Incorporated<
    0.00       02/11/2017       126,563  
  274,038    
Coinmach Corporation
    3.30       11/20/2014       258,281  
  325,000    
Fairpoint Communications Incorporated
    6.50       01/22/2016       320,050  
  32,938    
Federal Mogul Corporation
    2.20       12/29/2014       31,837  
  16,805    
Federal Mogul Corporation
    2.20       12/28/2015       16,243  
  400,000    
First Data Corporation
    3.01       09/24/2014       377,820  
  71,815    
Gray Television Incorporated
    3.77       12/31/2014       71,495  
  124,484    
Local TV Finance LLC
    2.31       05/07/2013       121,475  
  96,320    
Merisant Company (i)
    7.50       01/08/2014       93,672  
  74,779    
NCO Group Incorporated
    7.50       11/15/2013       74,072  
  365,000    
Newsday LLC
    10.50       08/01/2013       386,674  
  23,684    
Panolam Industries International
    8.25       12/31/2013       21,612  
  94,763    
Sugarhouse HSP Gaming Properties Limited Partnership
    11.25       09/23/2014       96,263  
  1,046,269    
TXU Energy Company LLC
    3.77       10/10/2014       878,573  
       
 
                       
Total Term Loans (Cost $3,152,419)                     3,267,959  
 
                             
       
 
                       
Shares  
 
  Yield                
Short-Term Investments: 5.91%                        
Investment Companies: 5.91%                        
  6,786,861    
Wells Fargo Advantage Cash Investment Money Market Fund(u)(l)##
    0.12               6,786,861  
 
                             
       
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $6,786,861)                     6,786,861  
 
                             
       
 
                       
Total Investments in Securities                        
                 
(Cost $122,753,741)*
    119.15 %     136,785,269  
Other Assets and Liabilities, Net
    (19.15 )     (21,983,808 )
 
           
Total Net Assets
    100.00 %   $ 114,801,461  
 
           

 


 

16     Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Portfolio of Investments—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
 
(i)   Illiquid security
 
(u)   Rate shown is the 7-day annualized yield at period end.
 
(l)   Investment in an affiliate.
 
ºº   The rate shown is the stated rate at the current period end.
 
^^   This security is currently in default with regards to scheduled interest and/or principal payments.
 
(a)   Security is fair valued by the Management Valuation Team, and in certain instances by the Board of Trustees, in accordance with procedures approved by the Board of Trustees.
 
  Non-income earning securities.
 
††   Securities that may be resold to “qualified institutional buyers” under Rule 144A or securities offered pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
 
<   All or a portion of the position represents an unfunded loan commitment.
 
##   All or a portion of this security has been segregated for when-issued, delayed delivery securities and/or unfunded loans.
 
*   Cost for federal income tax purposes is $123,178,411 and net realized appreciation (depreciation) consist of:
         
Gross unrealized appreciation
  $ 16,026,324  
Gross unrealized depreciation
    (2,419,466 )
       
Net unrealized appreciation
  $ 13,606,858  
The following table shows the percent of total long-term investments by geographic location as of February 28, 2011:
         
United States
    92.1 %
Portugal
    5.3 %
Canada
    1.2 %
Bermuda
    0.3 %
Brazil
    0.3 %
Australia
    0.2 %
Cayman Islands
    0.2 %
Austria
    0.1 %
Luxembourg
    0.1 %
Marshalls Islands
    0.1 %
United Kingdom
    0.1 %
       
 
    100.0 %
       
The following table shows the percent of total bonds by credit quality based on Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s ratings as of February 28, 2011:
         
BBB
    5.8 %
BB
    37.9 %
B
    48.1 %
CCC
    6.8 %
CC
    0.5 %
D
    0.7 %
NR
    0.2 %
       
 
    100.0 %
       
The following table shows the percent of total bonds based on effective maturity as of February 28, 2011:
         
Less than 1 year
    17.3 %
1 to 3 year(s)
    28.1 %
3 to 5 years
    27.4 %
5 to 10 years
    17.3 %
10 to 20 years
    8.8 %
20 to 30 years
    1.1 %
       
 
    100.0 %
       
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 


 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities—February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund     17
         
Assets
       
Investments
       
In unaffiliated securities, at value
  $ 129,998,408  
In affiliated securities, at value
    6,786,861  
 
     
Total investments, at value (see cost below)
    136,785,269  
Foreign currency, at value (see cost below)
    227,428  
Receivable for securities sold
    222,575  
Dividends and interest receivable
    1,429,349  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    41,805  
 
     
Total assets
    138,706,426  
 
     
Liabilities
       
Dividends payable
    690,572  
Payable for securities purchased
    719,558  
Written options, at value (premiums received $1,418)
    1,750  
Secured borrowing payable
    22,001,755  
Advisory fee payable
    66,864  
Due to other related parties
    5,572  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    418,894  
 
     
Total liabilities
    23,904,965  
 
     
Net assets
  $ 114,801,461  
 
     
 
       
NET ASSETS REPRESENTED BY
       
Paid-in capital
  $ 151,146,485  
Overdistributed net investment income
    (1,701,446 )
Accumulated net realized losses on investments
    (48,703,548 )
Net unrealized gains on investments
    14,059,970  
 
     
Total net assets
    114,801,461  
 
     
 
       
NET ASSETS VALUE PER SHARE
       
Based on $114,801,461 divided by 9,207,605 shares issued and outstanding (unlimited number of common shares authorized)
  $ 12.47  
 
     
 
       
Total investments, at cost
  $ 122,753,741  
Foreign currency, at cost
  $ 224,386  
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 


 

18     Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Statement of Operations—Six Months Ended February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
         
Investment income
       
Dividends*
  $ 2,408,469  
Interest
    1,668,661  
Income from affiliated securities
    6,566  
 
     
Total investment income
    4,083,696  
 
     
Expenses
       
Advisory fee
    395,625  
Administration fee
    32,969  
Transfer agent fees
    17,682  
Trustees’ fees and expenses
    1,877  
Printing and postage expenses
    36,300  
Custodian and accounting fees
    14,074  
Professional fees
    34,742  
Commitment fee
    33,183  
Interest expense
    135,180  
Other
    79,530  
 
     
Total expenses
    781,162  
 
     
Net investment income
    3,302,534  
 
     
 
       
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS
       
 
       
Net realized gains (losses) on:
       
Unaffiliated securities
    3,250,326  
Written options
    158  
 
     
Net realized gains on investments
    3,250,484  
 
     
 
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on:
       
Unaffiliated securities
    8,983,663  
Written options
    (332 )
 
     
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments
    8,983,331  
 
     
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
    12,233,815  
 
     
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
  $ 15,536,349  
 
     
 
*    Net of foreign withholding taxes of
  $ 154,866  
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 


 

Statements of Changes in Net Assets   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund      19
                 
    Six Months Ended        
    February 28, 2011     Year Ended  
    (Unaudited)     August 31, 2010  
 
Operations
               
Net investment income
  $ 3,302,534     $ 5,346,993  
Net realized gains on investments
    3,250,484       761,910  
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments
    8,983,331       2,877,761  
     
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
    15,536,349       8,986,664  
     
 
               
Distributions to shareholders from
               
Net investment income
    (4,141,911 )     (4,848,035 )
Tax basis return of capital
    0       (5,644,957 )
     
Total distributions to shareholders
    (4,141,911 )     (10,492,992 )
     
 
               
Capital share transactions
               
Net asset value of common shares issued under the Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan
    162,439       1,064,214  
     
Total increase (decrease) in net assets applicable to shareholders
    11,556,877       (442,114 )
     
 
               
Net assets
               
Beginning of period
    103,244,584       103,686,698  
     
End of period
  $ 114,801,461     $ 103,244,584  
     
 
               
Overdistributed net investment income
  $ (1,701,446 )   $ (765,075 )
     
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 


 

20       Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Statement of Cash Flows—Six Months Ended February 28, 2011 (Unaudited)
         
Cash flows from operating activities:
       
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
  $ 15,536,349  
 
       
Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets from operations to net cash provided by operating activities:
       
Purchase of investment securities
    (36,410,624 )
Proceeds from sales of securities
    38,302,532  
Paydowns
    662,627  
Amortization
    (78,979 )
Cost of written options
    (3,728 )
Premiums received from written options
    3,886  
Purchase of short-term investment securities, net
    (195,023 )
Decrease in dividends and interest receivable
    361,734  
Decrease in receivable for securities sold
    649,493  
Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets
    69  
Increase in payable for securities purchased
    211,160  
Decrease in advisory fee payable
    (1,596 )
Decrease in due to other related parties
    (133 )
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities
    95,129  
Decrease in payable to custodian
    (2,692,310 )
Unrealized appreciation on investments
    (8,983,331 )
Net realized gains on written options
    (158 )
Net realized gains on securities in unaffiliated issuers
    (3,250,326 )
 
     
Net cash provided by operating activities
    4,206,771  
 
     
 
       
Cash flows from financing activities:
       
Cash distributions paid
    (3,978,451 )
Decrease in secured borrowing
    (892 )
 
     
Net cash used in financing activities
    (3,979,343 )
 
     
Net increase in cash
    227,428  
 
     
 
       
Cash (including foreign currency):
       
Beginning of period
    0  
 
     
End of period
  $ 227,428  
 
     
 
       
Supplemental cash disclosure:
       
Cash paid for interest
  $ 135,180  
 
     
 
       
Supplemental non-cash financing disclosure:
       
Reinvestment of dividends
  $ 162,439  
 
     
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 


 

Financial Highlights   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund       21
(For a share outstanding throughout each period)
                                                 
    Six Months Ended        
    February 28, 2011     Year Ended August 31,  
    (unaudited)     2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
 
Net asset value, beginning of period
  $ 11.23     $ 11.38     $ 17.50     $ 24.05     $ 23.16     $ 25.43  
Income from investment operations
                                               
Net investment income1
    0.36       0.59       0.97       2.49       2.81       4.07  
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
    1.33       0.41       (5.29 )     (4.18 )     2.37       (0.51 )
Distributions to preferred shareholders from
                                               
Net investment income
    0.00       0.00       0.00       (0.33 )     (0.30 )     (0.39 )
Net realized gains
    0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       (0.20 )     (0.02 )
 
                                   
Total from investment operations
    1.69       1.00       (4.32 )     (2.02 )     4.68       3.15  
 
Distributions to common shareholders from
                                               
Net investment income
    (0.45 )     (0.53 )1     (1.00 )1     (2.76 )     (3.79 )     (2.76 )
Net realized gains
    0.00       0.00       0.00       (1.77 )     0.00       (2.67 )
Tax basis return of capital
    0.00       (0.62 )1     (0.80 )1     0.00       0.00       0.00  
 
                                   
Total distributions to common shareholders
    (0.45 )     (1.15 )     (1.80 )     (4.53 )     (3.79 )     (5.43 )
 
Offering costs charged to capital for
                                               
Preferred shares
    0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.01 1,2
Net asset value, end of period
  $ 12.47     $ 11.23     $ 11.38     $ 17.50     $ 24.05     $ 23.16  
 
Market value, end of period
  $ 11.77     $ 11.23     $ 12.49     $ 21.02     $ 27.30     $ 23.50  
 
Total return based on market value3
    8.84 %     (1.24 )%     (30.46 )%     (7.86 )%     34.05 %     35.89 %
 
Ratios and supplemental data
                                               
Net assets of common shareholders, end of period (thousands)
  $ 114,801     $ 103,245     $ 103,687     $ 156,384     $ 209,066     $ 195,955  
Liquidation value of preferred shares, end of period (thousands)
  NA   NA   NA   NA   $ 80,000     $ 80,000  
Asset coverage ratio, end of period
  NA   NA   NA   NA     360 %     341 %
Ratios to average net assets
                                               
Expenses including waivers/reimbursements but excluding expense reductions
    1.42 %     1.52 %     2.25 %     1.89 %     1.42 %     1.70 %
Expenses excluding waivers/reimbursements and expense reductions
    1.42 %     2.25 %     3.44 %     1.92 %     1.42 %     1.70 %
Expenses including waivers/reimbursements but excluding expense reductions and interest expense
    1.17 %     1.33 %     1.55 %     1.37 %     1.20 %     1.39 %
Interest expense
    0.25 %     0.19 %     0.70 %     0.52 %     0.22 %     0.31 %
Net investment income
    6.00 %     5.19 %     8.75 %     10.33 %4     9.41 %4     16.00 %4
Portfolio turnover rate
    64 %     59 %     137 %     153 %     117 %     122 %
 
     
1.   Calculated based on average common shares outstanding during the period.
 
2.   Amount represents a refund of certain preferred share offering expenses.
 
3.   Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock on the first day and a sale on the last day of the period reporting. Dividends and distributions are assumed for the purposes of these calculations to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund’s Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan. Total return does not reflect brokerage commissions or sales charges.
 
4.   The net investment income ratio reflects distributions paid to preferred shareholders.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 


 

22       Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
1. ORGANIZATION
Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund (the “Fund”) was organized as a statutory trust under the laws of the state of Delaware on February 4, 2004 and is registered as a non-diversified closed-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The primary investment objective of the Fund is to seek a high level of current income and moderate capital growth, with an emphasis on providing tax advantaged dividend income.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following significant accounting policies, which are consistently followed in the preparation of the financial statements of the Fund, are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles which require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Management has considered the circumstances under which the Fund should recognize or make disclosures regarding events or transactions occurring subsequent to the balance sheet date through the date the financial statements are issued. Adjustments or additional disclosures, if any, have been included in these financial statements.
Securities valuation
Investments in securities are valued each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange, which is usually 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time). Securities which are traded on a national or foreign securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price, except that securities listed on The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. (“Nasdaq”) are valued at the Nasdaq Official Closing Price (“NOCP”), and if no NOCP is available, then at the last reported sales price. If no sales price is shown on the Nasdaq, the bid price will be used. In the absence of any sale of securities listed on the Nasdaq, and in the case of other securities, including U.S. Government obligations, but excluding debt securities maturing in 60 days or less, the price will be deemed “stale” and the valuations will be determined in accordance with the Fund’s Fair Valuation Procedures.
Securities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using the closing rates of exchange in effect on the day of valuation.
Many securities markets and exchanges outside the U.S. close prior to the close of the New York Stock Exchange and therefore may not fully reflect trading or events that occur after the close of the principal exchange in which the foreign investments are traded but before the close of the New York Stock Exchange. If such trading or events are expected to materially affect the value of the investments, then those investments are fair valued following procedures approved by the Board of Trustees. These procedures take into account multiple factors including movements in U.S. securities markets after foreign exchanges close. Depending on market activity, such fair valuations may be frequent. Such fair value pricing may result in NAVs that are higher or lower than NAVs based on the closing price or latest quoted bid price.
Certain fixed income securities with maturities exceeding 60 days are valued based on available market quotations received from an independent pricing service approved by the Trust’s Board of Trustees which may utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, prices of securities of comparable quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics and other market data. If valuations are not available from the pricing service or values received are deemed not representative of market value, values will be obtained from a third party broker-dealer or determined based on the Fund’s Fair Value Procedures.
Debt securities of sufficient credit quality with original maturities of 60 days or less generally are valued at amortized cost which approximates fair value. The amortized cost method involves valuing a security at its cost, plus accretion of discount or minus amortization of premium over the period until maturity.
Investments in open-end mutual funds and non-registered investment companies are generally valued at net asset value.
Certain investments which are not valued using any of the methods discussed above, are valued at their fair value, as determined by procedures established in good faith and approved by the Board of Trustees.

 


 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund      23
The valuation techniques used by the Fund to measure fair value are consistent with the market approach, income approach and/or cost approach, where applicable, for each security type.
Foreign currency translation
The accounting records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Assets, including investment securities, and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are translated into U.S. dollars at the prevailing rates of exchange at the date of valuation. Purchases and sales of securities, and income and expenses are translated at the prevailing rate of exchange on the respective dates of such transactions. Reported net realized foreign exchange gains or losses arise from sales of foreign currencies, currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on securities transactions, and the difference between the amounts of dividends, interest and foreign withholding taxes recorded and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually paid or received. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in the fair value of assets and liabilities other than investments in securities resulting in changes in exchange rates.
The changes in net assets arising from changes in exchange rates and the changes in net assets resulting from changes in market prices of securities are not separately presented. Such changes are recorded with net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments. Gains and losses from certain foreign currency transactions are treated as ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
When-issued transactions
The Fund may purchase securities on a forward commitment or ‘when-issued’ basis. The Fund records a when-issued transaction on the trade date and will segregate assets to cover its obligation by confirming the availability of qualifying assets having a value sufficient to make payment for the securities purchased. Securities purchased on a when-issued basis are marked-to-market daily and the Fund begins earning interest on the settlement date. Losses may arise due to changes in the market value of the underlying securities or if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.
Term loans
Each Fund may invest in term loans. The loans are marked-to-market daily and the Fund begins earning interest when the loans are funded. The loans pay interest at rates which are periodically reset by reference to a base lending rate plus a spread. The Fund assumes the credit risk of the borrower and there could be potential loss to the Fund in the event of default by the borrower.
Options
The Fund may be subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. The Fund may write covered put or call options. When the Fund writes an option, an amount equal to the premium received is recorded as a liability and is subsequently adjusted to the current market value of the written option. Premiums received from written options, which expire unexercised, are recognized as realized gains from investments on the expiration date. The difference between the premium received and the amount paid on effecting a closing purchase transaction, including brokerage commissions, is treated as a realized gain or loss. If a call option is exercised, the premium is added to the proceeds from the sale of the underlying security in calculating the realized gain or loss on the sale. If a put option is exercised, the premium reduces the cost of the security purchased. The Fund, as a writer of an option, bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security underlying the written option.
The Fund may also purchase call or put options. The premium is included in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment which is subsequently adjusted to the current market value of the option. Premiums paid for purchased options which expire are recognized as realized losses from investments on the expiration date. Premiums paid for purchased options which are exercised or closed are added to the amount paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying security to determine the realized gain or loss. The risk of loss associated with purchased options is limited to the premium paid.
Options traded on an exchange are regulated and terms of the options are standardized. Options traded over the counter expose the Fund to counterparty risk in the event the counterparty does not perform. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Fund and the counterparty and by having the counterparty post collateral to cover the Fund’s exposure to the counterparty.

 


 

24       Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Credit default swaps
The Fund may be subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. The Fund may enter into credit default swap contracts for hedging or speculative purposes to provide or receive a measure of protection against default on a referenced entity, obligation or index or for investment gains. Credit default swaps involve an exchange of a stream of payments for protection against the loss in value of an underlying security or index. Under the terms of the swap, one party acts as a guarantor (referred to as the seller of protection) and receives a periodic stream of payments, provided that there is no credit event, from another party (referred to as the buyer of protection) that is a fixed percentage applied to a notional principal amount over the term of the swap. An index credit default swap references all the names in the index, and if a credit event is triggered, the credit event is settled based on that name’s weight in the index. A credit event includes bankruptcy, failure to pay, obligation default, obligation acceleration, repudiation/moratorium, and restructuring. The Fund may enter into credit default swaps as either the seller of protection or the buyer of protection. As the seller of protection, the Fund is subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap and has assumed the risk of default of the underlying security or index. As the buyer of protection, the Fund could be exposed to risks if the seller of the protection defaults on its obligation to perform, or if there are unfavorable changes in the fluctuation of interest rates. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) that the Fund as the seller of protection could be required to make under the credit default swap contract would be an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap contract. The Fund’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty risk, either as the protection seller or as the protection buyer, is the fair value of the contract. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Fund and the counterparty and by having the counterparty post collateral to cover the Fund’s exposure to the counterparty.
If the Fund is the seller of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Fund will pay to the buyer of protection the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced index. If the Fund is the buyer of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Fund will receive from the seller of protection the notional amount of the swap and deliver the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced index.
Any premiums paid or received on the transactions are recorded as an asset or liability on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and amortized. The value of the swap contract is marked-to-market daily based on quotations from an independent pricing service or market makers and any change in value is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss. Periodic payments made or received are recorded as realized gains or losses. In addition, payments received or made as a result of a credit event or termination of the contract are recognized as realized gains or losses.
Certain credit default swap contracts entered into by the Fund provide for conditions that result in events of default or termination that enable the counterparty to the agreement to cause an early termination of the transactions under those agreements. Any election by the counterparty to terminate early may impact the amounts reported on the financial statements.
Security transactions and income recognition
Securities transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. Realized gains or losses are reported on the basis of identified cost of securities delivered.
Interest income is accrued daily and bond discounts are accreted and premiums are amortized daily based on the effective interest method. To the extent debt obligations are placed on non-accrual status, any related interest income may be reduced by writing off interest receivables when the collection of all or a portion of interest has become doubtful based on consistently applied procedures. If the issuer subsequently resumes interest payments or when the collectability of interest is reasonably assured, the debt obligation is removed from non-accrual status.
Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date, except for certain dividends from foreign securities, which are recorded as soon as the Fund is informed of the ex-dividend date.
Dividend and interest income from foreign securities is recorded net of foreign taxes withheld where recovery of such taxes is not assured.

 


 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund       25
Distributions to shareholders
Distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Such distributions are determined in conformity with income tax regulations, which may differ from generally accepted accounting principles.
Federal and other taxes
The Fund intends to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company by distributing substantially all of its investment company taxable income and any net realized capital gains (after reduction for capital loss carryforwards) sufficient to relieve it from all, or substantially all, federal income taxes. Accordingly, no provision for federal income taxes was required.
The Fund’s income and federal excise tax returns and all financial records supporting those returns for the prior three fiscal years are subject to examination by the federal and Delaware revenue authorities.
As of August 31, 2010 , the Fund had estimated net capital loss carryforwards, which were available to offset future net realized capital gains, in the amount of $50,967,880 with $701,198 expiring in 2016, $22,831,103 expiring in 2017 and $27,435,579 expiring in 2018.
3. FAIR VALUATION MEASUREMENTS
Fair value measurements of investments are determined within a framework that has established a fair value hierarchy based upon the various data inputs utilized in determining the value of the Fund’s investments. The three-level hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The Fund’s investments are classified within the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The inputs are summarized into three broad levels as follows:
  Level 1 — quoted prices in active markets for identical securities
 
  Level 2 — other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.)
 
  Level 3 — significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments)
The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
As of February 28, 2011 the inputs used in valuing the Fund’s assets, which are carried at fair value, were as follows:
                                 
            Significant Other     Significant        
    Quoted Prices     Observable Inputs     Unobservable Inputs        
Investments in Securities   (Level 1)     (Level 2)     (Level 3)     Total  
 
Equity securities
                               
Common stocks
  $ 79,914,586     $ 0     $ 0     $ 79,914,586  
Preferred stocks
    13,316,359       0       0       13,316,359  
Warrants
    2,700       0       0       2,700  
Investment companies
    68,221       0       0       68,221  
Corporate bonds and notes
    0       31,681,702       622,548       32,304,250  
Term loans
    0       3,267,959       0       3,267,959  
Yankee corporate bonds and notes
    0       1,124,333       0       1,124,333  
Short-term investments
                               
Investment companies
    6,786,861       0       0       6,786,861  
 
Total
  $ 100,088,727     $ 36,073,994     $ 622,548     $ 136,785,269  
Further details on the major security types listed above can be found in the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.

 


 

26       Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
As of February 28, 2011, the inputs used in valuing the Fund’s other financial instruments, which are carried at fair value, were as follows:
                                 
            Significant Other     Significant        
    Quoted Prices     Observable Inputs     Unobservable Inputs        
Other financial instruments   (Level 1)     (Level 2)     (Level 3)     Total  
Written options
  $ 0     $ 1,750     $ 0     $ 1,750  
For the six months ended February 28, 2011, the Fund did not have any significant transfers into/out of Level 1 and Level 2.
The following is a reconciliation of investments in which significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) were used in determining value:
         
    Corporate bonds  
    and notes  
Balance as of August 31, 2010
  $ 0  
Accrued discounts (premiums)
    0  
Realized gains (losses)
    0  
Change in unrealized gains (losses)
    0  
Purchases
    0  
Sales
    0  
Transfers into Level 3
    622,548  
Transfers out of Level 3
    0  
Balance as of February 28, 2011
  $ 622,548  
Change in unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings relating to securities still held at February 28, 2011
  $ 0  
4. TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES AND OTHER EXPENSES
Advisory fee
Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC (“Funds Management”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo & Company (“Wells Fargo”), is the adviser to the Fund and is paid an annual fee of 0.60% of the Fund’s average daily total assets. Total assets consist of the net assets of the Fund plus borrowings or other leverage for investment purposes. For the six months ended February 28, 2011, the advisory fee was equivalent to an annual rate of 0.72% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.
Funds Management may retain the services of certain investment sub-advisers to provide daily portfolio management to the Fund. The fees related to sub-advisory services are borne directly by the adviser and do not increase the overall fees paid by the Fund to the adviser. Wells Capital Management Incorporated, an affiliate of Funds Management, and Crow Point Partners, LLC are each investment sub-advisers to the Fund and are each paid an annual fee of 0.20% of the Fund’s average daily total assets.
Administration fee
Funds Management also serves as the administrator to the Fund providing the Fund with facilities, equipment and personnel. Funds Management is paid an annual administrative fee of 0.05% of the Fund’s average daily total assets. For the six months ended February 28, 2011, the administration fee was equivalent to an annual rate of 0.06% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.
5. CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS
The Fund has authorized an unlimited number of common shares with no par value. For the six months ended February 28, 2011 and the year ended August 31, 2010, the Fund issued 13,611 and 84,763 shares, respectively.

 


 

Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund       27
6. BORROWINGS
The Fund had secured debt financing in April 2008 from a multi-seller commercial paper conduit administered by a major financial institution (the “Facility”) in order to redeem all of its outstanding Preferred Shares. The Facility was refinanced on April 26, 2010 with a new borrowing facility, administered by a different major financial institution, with a commitment amount of $25 million and a 364 day term (“Refinancing Facility”). As of February 28, 2011, the Fund had borrowed $22 million under the Refinancing Facility. The Fund’s borrowings under the Refinancing Facility are generally charged interest at a rate determined by the type of loan elected by the Fund. Under the Facility, the Fund had been generally charged interest at a rate based on the rates of the commercial paper notes issued or at LIBOR plus 9.5%. During the six months ended February 28, 2011, an effective interest rate of 1.22% was incurred on the borrowings. Interest expense of $135,180, representing 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets, was incurred during the six months ended February 28, 2011. The Fund has pledged its assets to secure the borrowings and pays a commitment fee at an annual rate equal to (a) 0.30% as of any date upon which the loan balance exceeds 50% of the facility amount and (b) 0.50% as of any other date when the loan balance is less than 50% of the facility amount.
7. INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding U.S. government obligations and short-term securities (securities with maturities of one year or less at purchase date), were $36,412,174 and $38,220,470, respectively, for the six months ended February 28, 2011.
As of February 28, 2011, the Fund had unfunded loan commitments of $90,168.
8. DERIVATIVE TRANSACTIONS
During the six months ended February 28, 2011, the Fund entered into written options for hedging purposes.
During the six months ended February 28, 2011, the Fund had written option activities as follows:
                 
    Number of     Premiums  
    Contracts     Received  
Options outstanding at August 31, 2010
    0     $ 0  
Options written
    108       3,886  
Options terminated in closing purchase transactions
    (62 )     (1,844 )
Options exercised
    (21 )     (624 )
Options outstanding at February 28, 2011
    25     $ 1,418  
Open call options written at February 28, 2011 were as follow for the Fund:
                                         
Expiration         Number of     Strike     Market     Premiums  
Date     Issuer Name   Contracts     Price     Value     Received  
April 2011  
Comcast Corporation Class A
    25     $ 26.00     $ 1,750     $ 1,418  
The Fund had average premiums received on written options in the amount of $473 during the six months ended February 28, 2011.
The fair value, realized gains or losses and change in unrealized gains or losses on derivative instruments are reflected in the appropriate financial statements.
9. CONCENTRATION RISK
The Fund invests a substantial portion of its assets in the utilities industry and, therefore, may be more affected by changes in that industry than would be a comparable mutual fund whose investments are not heavily weighted in any industry.

 


 

28       Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
10. INDEMNIFICATION
Under the Trust’s organizational documents, the officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities that may arise out of performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust may enter into contracts with service providers that contain a variety of indemnification clauses. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on future claims that may be made against the Fund and, therefore, cannot be estimated.
11. SUBSEQUENT DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund declared the following distributions to shareholders:
                         
                    Net Investment  
Declaration Date   Record Date     Payable Date     Income  
February 18, 2011
  March 15, 2011   April 01, 2011   $ 0.075  
March 18, 2011
  April 13, 2011   May 02, 2011   $ 0.075  
April 22, 2011
  May 16, 2011   June 01, 2011   $ 0.075  
 
These distributions are not reflected in the accompanying financial statements.

 


 

Other Information (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund       29
PROXY VOTING INFORMATION
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-222-8222, visiting our Web site at wellsfargo.com/advantagefunds, or visiting the SEC Web site at www.sec.gov. Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available without charge on the Fund’s Web site at wellsfargo.com/advantagefunds or by visiting the SEC Web site at www.sec.gov.

 


 

30      Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Other Information (Unaudited)
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS INFORMATION
The complete portfolio holdings for the Fund are publicly available on the Fund’s Web site (www.wellsfargo.com/advantagefunds) on a monthly, 30-day or more delayed basis. In addition, top ten holdings information for the Fund is publicly available on the Fund’s Web site on a monthly, seven-day or more delayed basis. The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q, which is available without charge by visiting the SEC Web site at www.sec.gov. In addition, the Fund’s Form N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC, and at regional offices in New York City, at 233 Broadway, and in Chicago, at 175 West Jackson Boulevard, Suite 900. Information about the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The following table provides basic information about the Board of Trustees (the “Trustees”) and Officers of the Fund. Each of the Trustees and Officers listed below acts in identical capacities for the Wells Fargo Advantage family of funds, which consists of 152 funds comprising the Wells Fargo Funds Trust, Wells Fargo Variable Trust, Wells Fargo Master Trust, and four closed-end funds, including the Fund (collectively the “Fund Complex”). All of the Trustees are also Members of the Audit and Governance Committees of each Trust in the Fund Complex. The mailing address of each Trustee and Officer is 525 Market Street, 12th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105. The Board of Trustees is classified into three classes of which one is elected annually. Each Trustee serves a three-year term concurrent with the class from which the Trustee is elected. Each Officer serves an indefinite term.
Independent Trustees
             
Name and   Position Held and        
Year of Birth   Length of Service   Principal Occupations During Past Five Years   Other Directorships
Peter G. Gordon
(Born 1942)
  Trustee, since 1998;
Chairman, since 2005
(Lead Trustee since 2001)
  Co-Founder, Chairman, President and CEO of Crystal Geyser. Water Company. Trustee Emeritus, Colby College   Asset Allocation
Trust
 
           
Isaiah Harris, Jr.
(Born 1952)
  Trustee, since 2009   Retired. Prior thereto, President and CEO of BellSouth Advertising and Publishing Corp. from 2005 to 2007, President and CEO of BellSouth Enterprises from 2004 to 2005 and President of BellSouth Consumer Services from 2000 to 2003. Emeritus member of the Iowa State University Foundation Board of Governors. Emeritus Member of the Advisory Board of Iowa State University School of Business. Mr. Harris is a certified public accountant.   CIGNA Corporation; Deluxe Corporation; Asset Allocation Trust
 
           
Judith M. Johnson
(Born 1949)
  Trustee, since 2008   Retired. Prior thereto, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer of Minneapolis Employees Retirement Fund from 1996 to 2008. Ms. Johnson is an attorney, certified public accountant and a certified managerial accountant.   Asset Allocation
Trust
 
           
Leroy Keith, Jr.
(Born 1939)
  Trustee, since 2010   Chairman, Bloc Global Services (development and construction), Trustee of the Evergreen Funds from 1983 to 2010. Former Managing Director, Almanac Capital Management (commodities firm), former Partner, Stonington Partners, Inc. (private equity fund), former Director, Obagi Medical Products Co. and former Director, Lincoln Educational Services.   Trustee, Virtus Fund Complex (consisting of 45 portfolios as of 12/31/10); Director, Diversapack Co. (packaging company); Asset Allocation Trust
 
           
David F. Larcker
(Born 1951)
  Trustee, since 2009   James Irvin Miller Professor of Accounting at the Graduate School of Business, Stanford University, Director of Corporate Governance Research Program and Co-Director of The Rock Center for Corporate Governance since 2006. From 2005 to 2008, Professor of Accounting at the Graduate School of Business, Stanford University. Prior thereto, Ernst & Young Professor of Accounting at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania from 1985 to 2005.   Asset Allocation
Trust

 


 

Other Information (Unaudited)   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund       31
             
Name and   Position Held and        
Year of Birth   Length of Service   Principal Occupations During Past Five Years   Other Directorships
Olivia S. Mitchell
(Born 1953)
  Trustee, since 2006   International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans Professor and Chair of the Department of Insurance and Risk Management, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania since 1993. Director of Wharton’s Pension Research Council and Boettner Center on Pensions & Retirement Research, and Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research. Previously, Cornell University Professor from 1978 to 1993.   Asset Allocation
Trust
 
           
Timothy J. Penny
(Born 1951)
  Trustee, since 1996   President and CEO of Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, a non-profit organization, since 2007 and Senior Fellow at the Humphrey Institute Policy Forum at the University of Minnesota since 1995. Member of the Board of Trustees of NorthStar Education Finance, Inc., a non-profit organization, since 2007.   Asset Allocation
Trust
 
           
Michael S. Scofield
(Born 1943)
  Trustee, since 2010   Currently serves on the Investment Company Institute’s Board of Governors and Executive Committee as well the Independent Director’s Counsel Board of Governors and Executive Committee. Former Chairman of the Independent Directors Counsel. Trustee of the Evergreen Funds from 1984 to 2010. Retired Attorney, Law Offices of Michael S. Scofield and former Director and Chairman, Branded Media Corporation (multi-media branding company).   Asset Allocation
Trust
 
           
Donald C. Willeke
(Born 1940)
  Trustee, since 1996   Principal of the law firm of Willeke & Daniels. General Counsel of the Minneapolis Employees Retirement Fund from 1984 until its consolidation into the Minnesota Public Employees Retirement Association on June 30, 2010.   Asset Allocation
Trust
Officers
             
Name and   Position Held and        
Year of Birth   Length of Service   Principal Occupations During Past Five Years    
Karla M. Rabusch
(Born 1959)
  President, since 2003   Executive Vice President of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and President of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2003. Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC from 2001 to 2003.    
 
           
C. David Messman
(Born 1960)
  Secretary, since 2000;
Chief Legal Counsel, since 2003
  Senior Vice President and Secretary of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2001. Vice President and Managing Counsel of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. since 1996.    
 
           
Kasey Phillips
(Born 1970)
  Treasurer, since 2009   Senior Vice President of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2009. Senior Vice President of Evergreen Investment Management Company, LLC from 2006 to 2010. Treasurer of the Evergreen Funds from 2005 to 2010. Vice President and Assistant Vice President of Evergreen Investment Services, Inc. from 1999 to 2006.    
 
           
David Berardi
(Born 1975)
  Assistant Treasurer,
since 2009
  Vice President of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2009. Vice President of Evergreen Investment Management Company, LLC from 2008 to 2010. Assistant Vice President of Evergreen Investment Services, Inc. from 2004 to 2008. Manager of Fund Reporting and Control for Evergreen Investment Management Company, LLC from 2004 to 2010.    
 
           
Jeremy DePalma
(Born 1974)
  Assistant Treasurer,
since 2009
  Senior Vice President of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2009. Senior Vice President of Evergreen Investment Management Company, LLC from 2008 to 2010. Vice President, Evergreen Investment Services, Inc. from 2004 to 2007. Assistant Vice President, Evergreen Investment Services, Inc. from 2000 to 2004 and the head of the Fund Reporting and Control Team within Fund Administration from 2005 to 2010.    

 


 

32       Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   Other Information (Unaudited)
             
Name and   Position Held and        
Year of Birth   Length of Service   Principal Occupations During Past Five Years    
Debra Ann Early
(Born 1964)
  Chief Compliance Officer,
since 2007
  Chief Compliance Officer of Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC since 2007. Chief Compliance Officer of Parnassus Investments from 2005 to 2007. Chief Financial Officer of Parnassus Investments from 2004 to 2007 and Senior Audit Manager of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP from 1998 to 2004.    

 


 

Automatic Divdend Reinvestment Plan   Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund     33
AUTOMATIC DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN
All common shareholders are eligible to participate in the Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan (“the Plan”). Pursuant to the Plan, unless a common shareholder is ineligible or elects otherwise, all cash dividends and capital gains distributions are automatically reinvested by Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as agent for shareholders in administering the Plan (“Plan Agent”), in additional common shares of the Fund. Whenever the Fund declares an ordinary income dividend or a capital gain dividend (collectively referred to as “dividends”) payable either in shares or in cash, nonparticipants in the Plan will receive cash, and participants in the Plan will receive the equivalent in shares of common shares. The shares are acquired by the Plan Agent for the participant’s account, depending upon the circumstances described below, either (i) through receipt of additional unissued but authorized common shares from the Fund (“newly issued common shares”) or (ii) by purchase of outstanding common shares on the open-market (open-market purchases) on the NYSE Amex or elsewhere. If, on the payment date for any dividend or distribution, the net asset value per share of the common shares is equal to or less than the market price per common share plus estimated brokerage commissions (“market premium”), the Plan Agent will invest the amount of such dividend or distribution in newly issued shares on behalf of the participant. The number of newly issued common shares to be credited to the participant’s account will be determined by dividing the dollar amount of the dividend by the net asset value per share on the date the shares are issued, provided that the maximum discount from the then current market price per share on the date of issuance may not exceed 5%. If on the dividend payment date the net asset value per share is greater than the market value or market premium (“market discount”), the Plan Agent will invest the dividend amount in shares acquired on behalf of the participant in open-market purchases. There will be no brokerage charges with respect to shares issued directly by the Fund as a result of dividends or capital gains distributions payable either in shares or in cash. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred with respect to the Plan Agent’s open-market purchases in connection with the reinvestment of dividends. The automatic reinvestment of dividends and distributions will not relieve participants of any federal, state or local income tax that may be payable (or required to be withheld) on such dividends. All correspondence concerning the Plan should be directed to the Plan Agent at P.O. Box 43010, Providence, Rhode Island 02940-3010 or by calling 1-800-730-6001.

 


 

34    Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities and High Income Fund   List of Abbreviations
The following is a list of common abbreviations for terms and entities which may have appeared in this report.
     
ABAG
 —  Association of Bay Area Governments
ACB
 —  Agricultural Credit Bank
ADR
 —  American Depositary Receipt
ADS
 —  American Depository Shares
AGC-ICC
 —  Assured Guaranty Corporation — Insured Custody Certificates
AGM
 —  Assured Guaranty Municipal
AMBAC
 —  American Municipal Bond Assurance Corporation
AMT
 —  Alternative Minimum Tax
ARM
 —  Adjustable Rate Mortgages
AUD
 —  Australian Dollar
BAN
 —  Bond Anticipation Notes
BART
 —  Bay Area Rapid Transit
BHAC
 —  Berkshire Hathaway Assurance Corporation
BRL
 —  Brazil Real
CAD
 —  Canadian Dollar
CDA
 —  Community Development Authority
CDO
 —  Collateralized Debt Obligation
CDSC
 —  Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
CGIC
 —  Capital Guaranty Insurance Company
CGY
 —  Capital Guaranty Corporation
CHF
 —  Swiss Franc
CIFG
 —  CDC (Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations) IXIS Financial Guarantee
COP
 —  Certificate of Participation
CP
 —  Commercial Paper
CR
 —  Custody Receipts
CTF
 —  Common Trust Fund
DEM
 —  Deutsche Mark
DKK
 —  Danish Krone
DRIVER
 —  Derivative Inverse Tax-Exempt Receipts
DW&P
 —  Department of Water & Power
DWR
 —  Department of Water Resources
ECFA
 —  Educational & Cultural Facilities Authority
EDFA
 —  Economic Development Finance Authority
ETET
 —  Eagle Tax-Exempt Trust
ETF
 —  Exchange-Traded Fund
EUR
 —  Euro
FFCB
 —  Federal Farm Credit Bank
FGIC
 —  Financial Guaranty Insurance Corporation
FHA
 —  Federal Housing Authority
FHAG
 —  Federal Housing Agency
FHLB
 —  Federal Home Loan Bank
FHLMC
 —  Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation
FNMA
 —  Federal National Mortgage Association
FRF
 —  French Franc
FSA
 —  Farm Service Agency
GBP
 —  Great British Pound
GDR
 —  Global Depositary Receipt
GNMA
 —  Government National Mortgage Association
GO
 —  General Obligation
HCFR
 —  Healthcare Facilities Revenue
HEFA
 —  Health & Educational Facilities Authority
HEFAR
 —  Higher Education Facilities Authority Revenue
HFA
 —  Housing Finance Authority
HFFA
 —  Health Facilities Financing Authority
HKD
 —  Hong Kong Dollar
HUD
 —  Housing & Urban Development
HUF
 —  Hungarian Forint
IDA
 —  Industrial Development Authority
IDAG
 —  Industrial Development Agency
IDR
 —  Industrial Development Revenue
IEP
 —  Irish Pound
JPY
 —  Japanese Yen
KRW
 —  Republic of Korea Won
LIBOR
 —  London Interbank Offered Rate
LLC
 —  Limited Liability Company
LLP
 —  Limited Liability Partnership
LOC
 —  Letter of Credit
LP
 —  Limited Partnership
MBIA
 —  Municipal Bond Insurance Association
MFHR
 —  Multi-Family Housing Revenue
MFMR
 —  Multi-Family Mortgage Revenue
MMD
 —  Municipal Market Data
MSTR
 —  Municipal Securities Trust Receipts
MTN
 —  Medium Term Note
MUD
 —  Municipal Utility District
MXN
 —  Mexican Peso
MYR
 —  Malaysian Ringgit
NATL-RE
 —  National Public Finance Guarantee Corporation
NLG
 —  Netherlands Guilder
NOK
 —  Norwegian Krone
NZD
 —  New Zealand Dollar
PCFA
 —  Pollution Control Finance Authority
PCR
 —  Pollution Control Revenue
PFA
 —  Public Finance Authority
PFFA
 —  Public Facilities Financing Authority
PFOTER
 —  Puttable Floating Option Tax-Exempt Receipts
plc
 —  Public Limited Company
PLN
 —  Polish Zloty
PSFG
 —  Public School Fund Guaranty
PUTTER
 —  Puttable Tax-Exempt Receipts
R&D
 —  Research & Development
RDA
 —  Redevelopment Authority
RDFA
 —  Redevelopment Finance Authority
REITS
 —  Real Estate Investment Trusts
ROC
 —  Reset Option Certificates
SEK
 —  Swedish Krona
SFHR
 —  Single Family Housing Revenue
SFMR
 —  Single Family Mortgage Revenue
SGD
 —  Singapore Dollar
SKK
 —  Slovakian Koruna
SLMA
 —  Student Loan Marketing Association
SPDR
 —  Standard & Poor’s Depositary Receipts
STIT
 —  Short-Term Investment Trust
STRIPS
 —  Separately Traded Registered Interest and Principal Securities
TAN
 —  Tax Anticipation Notes
TBA
 —  To Be Announced
TRAN
 —  Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes
TCR
 —  Transferable Custody Receipts
TRY
 —  Turkish Lira
TTFA
 —  Transportation Trust Fund Authority
USD
 —  Unified School District
XLCA
 —  XL Capital Assurance
ZAR
 —  South African Rand

 


 

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(FULL PAGE GRA)

 


 

ITEM 2.   CODE OF ETHICS
Not required in this filing
ITEM 3.   AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
Not required in this filing.
ITEM 4.   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
Not required in this filing.
ITEM 5.   AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS
Not required in this filing.

 


 

ITEM 6.   SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
The Schedule of Investments is included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.
ITEM 7.   DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Not applicable.
ITEM 8.   PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Not applicable.
ITEM 9.   PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMEENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASES
Not applicable.
ITEM 10.   SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The Governance Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of Trustees of the registrant (the “Trust”) has adopted procedures by which a shareholder of any series of the Trust may submit properly a nominee recommendation for the Committee’s consideration.
The shareholder must submit any such recommendation (a “Shareholder Recommendation”) in writing to the Trust, to the attention of the Trust’s Secretary, at the address of the principal executive offices of the Trust.
The Shareholder Recommendation must be delivered to, or mailed and received at, the principal executive offices of the Trust not less than forty-five (45) calendar days nor more than seventy-five (75) calendar days prior to the date of the Committee meeting at which the nominee would be considered.
The Shareholder Recommendation must include: (i) a statement in writing setting forth (A) the name, age, date of birth, business address, residence address and nationality of the person recommended by the shareholder (the “candidate”); (B) the series (and, if applicable, class) and number of all shares of the Trust owned of record or beneficially by the candidate, as reported to such shareholder by the candidate; (C) any other information regarding the candidate called for with respect to director nominees by paragraphs (a), (d), (e) and (f) of Item 401 of Regulation S-K or paragraph (b) of Item 22 of Rule 14a-101 (Schedule 14A) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (or the corresponding provisions of any regulation or rule subsequently adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission or any successor agency applicable to the Trust); (D) any other information regarding the candidate that would be required to be disclosed if the candidate were a nominee in a proxy statement or other filing required to be made in connection with solicitation of proxies for election of directors pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder; and (E) whether the recommending shareholder believes that the candidate is or will be an “interested person” of the Trust (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) and, if not an “interested person,” information regarding the candidate that will be sufficient for the Trust to make such determination; (ii) the written and signed consent of the candidate to be named as a nominee and to serve as a Trustee if elected; (iii) the recommending shareholder’s name as it appears on the Trust’s books; (iv) the series (and, if applicable, class) and number of all shares of the Trust owned beneficially and of record by the recommending shareholder; and (v) a description of all arrangements or understandings between the recommending shareholder and the candidate and any other person or persons (including their names) pursuant to which the recommendation is being made by the recommending shareholder. In addition, the Committee may require the

 


 

candidate to interview in person and furnish such other information as it may reasonably require or deem necessary to determine the eligibility of such candidate to serve as a Trustee of the Trust.
ITEM 11.   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
(a) The President and Treasurer have concluded that the Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities & High Income Fund (the “Trust”) disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) provide reasonable assurances that material information relating to the Trust is made known to them by the appropriate persons, based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report.
(b) There were no significant changes in the Trust’s internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) that occurred during the second quarter of the period covered by this report that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 12.   EXHIBITS
(a)(1) Not required in this filing.
(a)(2) Certification pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30a-2(a)) is filed and attached hereto as Exhibit 99.CERT.
(a)(3) Not applicable.
(b) Certification pursuant to Rule 30a-2(b) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30a-2(b)) is filed and attached hereto as Exhibit 99.906CERT.

 


 

SIGNATURES
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
         
  Wells Fargo Advantage Utilities & High Income Fund
 
  By:   /s/ Karla M. Rabusch    
    Karla M. Rabusch   
    President 

 
  Date:  April 28, 2011     
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.
         
  By:   /s/ Karla M. Rabusch    
    Karla M. Rabusch   
    President   
 
Date: April 28, 2011 
 
     
  By:   /s/ Kasey L. Phillips    
    Kasey L. Phillips   
    Treasurer   
 
Date: April 28, 2011