Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K Current Report is filed by the Aberdeen Global Premier Properties Fund (formerly Alpine Global Premier Properties Fund) for the reporting period ending May 4, 2018. The filing addresses a change in the Fund's independent registered public accounting firm effective as of the close of business on May 4, 2018.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing text does not provide specific values for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. This report focuses exclusively on corporate governance and auditor changes rather than financial performance data.
Material Changes
- Accountant Resignation: Ernst & Young LLP (E&Y) resigned as the independent registered public accounting firm.
- Reason for Resignation: The resignation was due to independence matters relating to a change in the Fund's investment adviser, which also became effective on May 4, 2018.
- Future Action: The Fund's Board of Trustees and Audit Committee are expected to select a new independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2018.
Guidance, Outlook, and Risks
The filing confirms that E&Y's reports on the Fund's financial statements for the two most recent fiscal years (ended October 31, 2017, and October 31, 2016) did not contain adverse opinions, disclaimers, or qualifications regarding uncertainties, audit scope, or accounting principles. Furthermore, there were no disagreements between the Fund and E&Y on accounting principles, practices, or auditing procedures during the two most recent fiscal years or the subsequent interim period through May 4, 2018. No "reportable events" as defined by Regulation S-K occurred during this timeframe.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the identity of the new independent registered public accounting firm selected by the Board of Trustees.
- Confirm the details of the change in the Fund's investment adviser that triggered the auditor's independence issues.
- Review the letter from Ernst & Young LLP (Exhibit 16.1) to ensure it aligns with the Fund's disclosures regarding the resignation.
- Monitor future filings for the appointment of the new auditor and any potential impact on the audit of the fiscal year ending October 31, 2018.