Change in Portfolio Management Arrangements

Summary by AI ^BETAClose X

BlackRock Smaller Companies Trust plc has announced a change in its portfolio management following the departure of Dan Whitestone. Roland Arnold will now serve as the sole manager of the portfolio and will also assume the role of Head of BlackRock's Emerging Companies Team. He will continue to be supported by the wider team, with Matt Betts providing input on the global small cap portion of the portfolio, while Roland Arnold retains ultimate decision-making authority for UK and international investments. The Board has reviewed these arrangements and is satisfied with their appropriateness for the Company.

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BLACKROCK SMALLER COMPANIES TRUST PLC (the “Company”)

LEI - 549300MS535KC2WH4082

Change in Portfolio Management Arrangements

17 June 2026

The Board of BlackRock Smaller Companies Trust plc (“the Company”) announces that it has been advised that Dan Whitestone, Managing Director and Head of BlackRock’s Emerging Companies Team, has decided to leave BlackRock to take some time away from the industry.

Lead manager Roland Arnold will continue as sole manager of the portfolio and will also replace Dan as the Head of the BlackRock Emerging Companies Team. Roland will continue to be supported by the wider Emerging Companies Team which comprises three portfolio managers in total, including Matt Betts, who will provide input and ideas for the global small cap element of the portfolio. Ultimate decision making responsibility for UK and international names lies with Roland.

The Board has examined the proposed arrangements following Dan’s departure and is satisfied that they remain appropriate for the Company, subject of course to the usual ongoing review.

Enquiries:

Lansons: 020 7294 3610

David Yovichic, Investec: +44 (0)20 7597 4952