Two Closed End Funds Have Yields Over 20%, But Only One Is Actually Safe To Own Right Now

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses two closed-end funds, Eagle Point Credit (ECC) and Gabelli Multimedia Trust (GGT), highlighting that while both offer high yields (over 20%), only GGT is considered safe for investment at this time due to its more stable financial structure and performance [1][5]. Fund Performance and Distribution - Eagle Point Credit (ECC) has cut its monthly distribution by 57% from $0.14 to $0.06 starting April 2026, and its shares have fallen 43% over the past year, indicating that its high yield is unsustainable and reflects a collapsed share price rather than reliable income [2][9]. - Gabelli Multimedia Trust (GGT) transitioned from quarterly to monthly distributions in mid-2025 while maintaining similar annual payouts, and its shares have increased by 7% over the past year, suggesting a more stable yield compared to ECC [2][12]. Investment Risks and Structure - ECC invests in the equity tranches of collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), which are the riskiest segments that absorb losses first during credit downturns, leading to accelerated losses for investors [3][7]. - In contrast, GGT's holdings in media and telecommunications have managed to withstand recent market stresses without significant distribution cuts, indicating a more resilient investment structure [3][11]. Historical Distribution Trends - ECC's distribution history shows a clear downward trend, with cuts from $0.16 in 2023 to $0.14 in 2025, and then to $0.06 in 2026, reflecting ongoing financial distress [8][14]. - GGT's distribution history has been more stable, with consistent payments from 2020 to early 2025 and a shift to monthly payments that maintain the overall annual payout, indicating a structural change rather than a reduction in income [12][15]. Price Performance - ECC's share price has dropped from $6.29 to $3.57 over the past year, resulting in a year-to-date decline of 32%, which signifies a loss of principal for investors despite the high yield [9][10]. - Conversely, GGT's share price has increased from $3.87 to $4.14 over the same period, demonstrating a positive trend in investor confidence and capital stability [13].