Franklin Templeton Fund Adviser, LLC Announces Distributions for the Months of September, October and November 2025

Franklin Templeton Fund Adviser, LLC has announced its distribution schedules for several closed-end funds for the upcoming months of September, October, and November 2025. The distributions are as follows:

- **Record and Payable Dates** - September: Record date and ex-dividend date on September 23, 2025, with payments made on October 1, 2025. - October: Record date and ex-dividend date on October 24, 2025, with payments on November 3, 2025. - November: Record date and ex-dividend date on November 20, 2025, with payments on December 1, 2025.

The funds declaring distributions include ClearBridge Energy Midstream Opportunity Fund (EMO), Western Asset Diversified Income Fund (WDI), Western Asset High Income Fund II Inc. (HIX), and several others. Notably, each of these funds has announced consistent monthly distributions for the three-month period, including EMO at $0.360 per share and WDI at $0.1485 per share.

It's important to mention that the details provided in this press release do not serve tax reporting purposes. Franklin Templeton advises investors that any distributions exceeding net investment income will be communicated separately, guiding shareholders on the nature of these distributions for tax handling, which may include components like ordinary income or return of capital.

As a subsidiary of Franklin Resources, Inc., Franklin Templeton emphasizes that fund shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, with prices subject to market fluctuations. Investors are reminded that all investments carry a risk of loss, and the value at sale may differ from the original investment. More comprehensive details about the funds can be sought through their investor services or the company’s official website.

Franklin Templeton Fund Adviser, LLC's recent announcement regarding distributions for certain closed-end funds in September, October, and November 2025, presents an important opportunity for investors seeking income-generating investments. The consistency in the distribution amounts—from funds such as the ClearBridge Energy Midstream Opportunity Fund (EMO) and various Western Asset funds—demonstrates stability, which is crucial in current market conditions marked by volatility.

Investors should closely monitor the record and ex-dividend dates, particularly as they approach. For September, both are set for September 23, 2025, with payment on October 1, 2025. This timeline is critical for investors looking to add to their positions or initiate new investments, as they need to be on record as shareholders before the ex-dividend date to qualify for distribution.

Given that several funds, including the Western Asset Diversified Income Fund (WDI) and Western Asset High Income Fund II Inc. (HIX), are maintaining their distribution levels, this might suggest a more stable income trajectory, especially in the face of rising interest rates and inflationary pressures. However, investors should remain vigilant, as funds' distributions may not solely stem from net investment income. Franklin Templeton clearly states that returns of capital may be included, an area that merits careful examination to assess tax implications and overall fund health.

Furthermore, trading dynamics for these closed-end funds can lead to fluctuations in market prices in relation to their net asset values (NAV). Given that they often trade at discounts to their NAVs, savvy investors may find attractive entry points for generating income while mitigating risk.

In summary, while the announced distributions signal a stable income potential, it is critical for investors to conduct thorough due diligence, considering market conditions and fund management strategies, before making investment decisions.