Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K is a current report filed by the Alpine Total Dynamic Dividend Fund (referred to in the header as Abrdn Total Dynamic Dividend Fund in the request metadata) on June 25, 2015. The filing addresses a change in the registrant's certifying accountant, effective as of the report date.
Financial Metrics
This filing does not contain financial performance data. There are no disclosures regarding revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity metrics within this document.
Material Changes
The primary material change reported is the replacement of the independent registered public accounting firm:
- Dismissed Firm: Deloitte & Touche LLP (D&T) was dismissed effective June 25, 2015.
- Engaged Firm: Ernst & Young LLP (E&Y) was engaged as the new independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2015.
- Scope: This change applies to the Alpine Total Dynamic Dividend Fund, Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund, and Alpine Global Dynamic Dividend Fund.
Management Commentary and Risks
The Board of Trustees, upon recommendation by the Audit Committee, approved the change. Management explicitly states that the selection of E&Y does not reflect any disagreements with or dissatisfaction regarding the performance of the prior firm, D&T.
Regarding risks and contingencies:
- Audit Opinions: D&T's reports for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014, and October 31, 2013, contained no adverse opinions, disclaimers, or qualifications.
- Disagreements: There were no disagreements with D&T on accounting principles, practices, or audit scope during the two most recent fiscal years or the interim period.
- Reportable Events: No "reportable events" as defined in Regulation S-K Item 304(a)(1)(v) occurred.
- Consultations: No consultations were held with E&Y regarding accounting principles or disagreements prior to their engagement.
Key Facts for Investor Verification
- Verify the effective date of the auditor change (June 25, 2015) and the specific funds affected.
- Confirm that the dismissal of Deloitte & Touche LLP was not due to accounting disagreements or reportable events.
- Note that the new auditor, Ernst & Young LLP, will cover the fiscal year ending October 31, 2015.
- Review the attached Exhibit 1 (Letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP) for their confirmation of the disclosures.