MERRILL LYNCH
MINNESOTA
MUNICIPAL
BOND FUND
FUND LOGO
Semi-Annual Report
January 31, 1996
<PAGE>
Officers and Trustees
Arthur Zeikel, President and Trustee
James H. Bodurtha, Trustee
Herbert I. London, Trustee
Robert R. Martin, Trustee
Joseph L. May, Trustee
Andre F. Perold, Trustee
Terry K. Glenn, Executive Vice President
Donald C. Burke, Vice President
Vincent R. Giordano, Vice President
Kenneth A. Jacob, Vice President
Fred K. Stuebe, Portfolio Manager
Gerald M. Richard, Treasurer
Jerry Weiss, Secretary
Custodian
State Street Bank and Trust Company
P.O. Box 351
Boston, MA 02101
Transfer Agent
Merrill Lynch Financial Data Services, Inc.
4800 Deer Lake Drive East
Jacksonville, FL 32246-6484
(800) 637-3863
This report is not authorized for use as an offer of sale or a
solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Fund unless
accompanied or preceded by the Fund's current prospectus. Past
performance results shown in this report should not be considered a
representation of future performance. Investment return and
principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when
redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject
to change.
<PAGE>
Merrill Lynch Minnesota
Municipal Bond Fund
Merrill Lynch Multi-State
Municipal Series Trust
Box 9011
Princeton, NJ
08543-9011
TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS
Although the partial shutdown of the US Government curtailed the
release of most economic data in the latter part of the six-month
period ended January 31, 1996, it was nonetheless apparent that
gross domestic product (GDP) growth was losing momentum. Consumer
spending is barely growing, the industrial sector is at a virtual
standstill and, despite lower mortgage rates, there is little or no
pick-up in housing activity. With inflationary pressures subdued,
the Federal Reserve Board responded to the slowing economy by
continuing to modestly lower short-term interest rates.
Historically, it has taken some time for shifts in monetary policy
to have an impact on economic growth. Therefore, the Federal Reserve
Board's gradual shift to lowering interest rates, which began early
last year, may not be reflected in a pick-up in real economic growth
until later this year.
The impasse between the Clinton Administration and Congress over the
Federal budget continues, although both sides have made concessions
since the debate began. It appears that investors are currently
focusing on the progress that has been made rather than on the
differences that remain. Initially, President Clinton proposed
deficits of about $190 billion annually through fiscal year 2002,
but now proposes balanced budgets, as do the Republicans. Current
indications are that a piecemeal budget accord is the most likely
outcome. Even without the proposed policy changes, it appears that
the US Federal budget deficit would remain stable at about 2% of GDP
for the rest of the decade. This would be far better than is the
case for most Group of Seven industrial nations, and for the United
States would represent a great improvement over the last 15 years.
Although this may fall short of investors' best expectations, it
appears that the Federal budget debate over the past year has
resulted in a trend toward a more conservative fiscal policy.
<PAGE>
The Municipal Market
The municipal bond market rallied strongly over the six months ended
January 31, 1996. Long-term, tax-exempt revenue bond yields, as
measured by the Bond Buyer Revenue Bond Index, declined over 65
basis points (0.65%) to end the January period at 5.69%. Continued
weak economic conditions coupled with low inflation fostered a very
positive environment for almost all fixed-income investments during
the last three months of 1995. Long-term US Treasury bond yields
also declined approximately 65 basis points to 6.00% by January 31,
1996. Both US Treasury and long-term tax-exempt bond yields are near
their lowest levels in the past two years.
The municipal bond market had to contend with a number of
difficulties for much of 1995. Various tax reform proposals have
made the future tax advantage of municipal bonds uncertain. This
has, at a minimum, reduced the overall demand for tax-exempt
securities. At the same time, as municipal bond yields declined, tax-
exempt authorities have rushed to issue debt at near historic low
yield levels. During the six-month period ended January 31, 1996,
approximately $90 billion in municipal securities were underwritten,
an increase of over 30% compared to the same period last year.
However, as early 1995 issuance was significantly reduced, the last
12 months issuance of approximately $160 billion remained the same
as that issued a year earlier. Tax-exempt bond yields declined
throughout the six months ended January 31, 1996, despite investor
uncertainty and increased supply pressures.
It is likely that the municipal market will regain much of the
technical support it enjoyed earlier in 1995. 1995 issuance remained
significantly below levels underwritten in 1993, when over $290
billion in long-term tax-exempt securities were issued. Also,
municipal investors received over $25 billion in bond maturities,
coupon income and early redemptions on January 1, 1996. This $25
billion is almost twice the average monthly issuance for 1995. The
amount of outstanding municipal securities will continue to decline
throughout 1996 and into early 1997. As the uncertainties
surrounding proposed tax reforms are resolved in 1996, the tax-
exempt bond market's renewed technical position should provide
support to municipal bond prices.
Many of the features that made tax-exempt products attractive to
investors last year are still in place. Long-term, A-rated municipal
revenue bonds continue to yield well over 90% of comparable US
Treasury bond yields. Historically, analysts have considered yields
in excess of 82% attractive for long-term investors. For example,
currently available tax-exempt bond yields generate taxable
equivalent yields in excess of 8.50% for an investor in the 36%
Federal income tax bracket. While the uncertainties regarding
potential changes in current tax law remain, it appears that, at
current price levels, bond investors have discounted at least some
of the uncertainty.
<PAGE>
Looking ahead, it may be unreasonable to expect to duplicate the
double-digit returns produced by most tax-exempt issues in 1995,
given current municipal bond yields. Municipal bond yields would
have to decline to levels not seen since the 1960s in order to
generate such significant returns in the coming years. While the
current economic environment may still justify additional declines
in interest rates, it may be prudent to expect some period of
consolidation before the interest rate decline resumes. Tax-exempt
bond market performance in 1996 is likely to be generated more by
enhancing current income and limiting credit risk than by
significant interest rate declines.
Portfolio Strategy
During the six-month period ended January 31, 1996, with the
continued decline of interest rates, we shifted the Fund's portfolio
strategy from a neutral posture to one that is more constructive on
interest rates. We achieved this by extending the duration of the
Fund in order to seek to enhance any capital appreciation. New-issue
volume in the Minnesota tax-exempt market was just under $1.0
billion in bonds during the three months ended January 31, 1996.
With the slight increase of new issuance in the State of Minnesota
and no significant increase on the horizon, we kept the Fund's cash
reserve position at approximately 1%--3% of net assets.
In Conclusion
We appreciate your ongoing interest in Merrill Lynch Minnesota
Municipal Bond Fund, and we look forward to assisting you with your
financial needs in the months and years ahead.
Sincerely,
(Arthur Zeikel)
Arthur Zeikel
President
(Vincent R. Giordano)
Vincent R. Giordano
Vice President
(Fred K. Stuebe)
Fred K. Stuebe
Portfolio Manager
<PAGE>
March 14, 1996
We are pleased to announce that Fred K. Stuebe is responsible for
the day-to-day management of Merrill Lynch Minnesota Municipal Bond
Fund. Mr. Stuebe has been employed by Merrill Lynch Asset
Management, L.P. (an affiliate of the Fund's investment adviser)
since 1989 as Vice President in the Tax-Exempt Bond Department.
PERFORMANCE DATA
About Fund Performance
Investors are able to purchase shares of the Fund through the
Merrill Lynch Select Pricing SM System, which offers four pricing
alternatives:
* Class A Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge (front-end
load) of 4% and bear no ongoing distribution or account maintenance
fees. Class A Shares are available only to eligible investors.
* Class B Shares are subject to a maximum contingent deferred sales
charge of 4% if redeemed during the first year, decreasing 1% each
year thereafter to 0% after the fourth year. In addition, Class B
Shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.25% and an account
maintenance fee of 0.25%. These shares automatically convert to
Class D Shares after approximately 10 years.
* Class C Shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.35% and an
account maintenance fee of 0.25%. In addition, Class C Shares are
subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within
one year of purchase.
* Class D Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge of 4% and an
account maintenance fee of 0.10% (but no distribution fee).
None of the past results shown should be considered a representation
of future performance. Investment return and principal value of
shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original cost. Dividends paid to each class
of shares will vary because of the different levels of account
maintenance, distribution and transfer agency fees applicable to
each class, which are deducted from the income available to be paid
to shareholders.
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
Recent Performance Results
<CAPTION>
12 Month 3 Month
1/31/96 10/31/95 1/31/95 % Change % Change
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Class A Shares* $10.68 $10.48 $10.02 + 6.59% +1.91%
Class B Shares* 10.68 10.48 10.02 + 6.59 +1.91
Class C Shares* 10.68 10.48 10.02 + 6.59 +1.91
Class D Shares* 10.68 10.48 10.02 + 6.59 +1.91
Class A Shares--Total Return* +12.35(1) +3.21(2)
Class B Shares--Total Return* +11.79(3) +3.08(4)
Class C Shares--Total Return* +11.66(5) +3.06(6)
Class D Shares--Total Return* +12.24(7) +3.19(8)
Class A Shares--Standardized 30-day Yield 4.54%
Class B Shares--Standardized 30-day Yield 4.22%
Class C Shares--Standardized 30-day Yield 4.12%
Class D Shares--Standardized 30-day Yield 4.44%
<FN>
*Investment results shown do not reflect sales charges; results
shown would be lower if a sales charge was included.
(1)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.549 per share ordinary
income dividends.
(2)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.136 per share ordinary
income dividends.
(3)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.496 per share ordinary
income dividends.
(4)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.122 per share ordinary
income dividends.
(5)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.485 per share ordinary
income dividends.
(6)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.120 per share ordinary
income dividends.
(7)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.539 per share ordinary
income dividends.
(8)Percent change includes reinvestment of $0.133 per share ordinary
income dividends.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PERFORMANCE DATA (continued)
<TABLE>
Performance Summary--Class A Shares
<CAPTION>
Net Asset Value Capital Gains
Period Covered Beginning Ending Distributed Dividends Paid* % Change**
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
3/27/92--12/31/92 $10.00 $10.34 -- $0.500 + 8.55%
1993 10.34 10.92 $0.081 0.636 +12.81
1994 10.92 9.69 -- 0.558 - 6.27
1995 9.69 10.69 -- 0.550 +16.33
1/1/96--1/31/96 10.69 10.68 -- 0.032 + 0.30
------ ------
Total $0.081 Total $2.276
Cumulative total return as of 1/31/96: +33.91%**
<FN>
*Figures may include short-term capital gains distributions.
**Figures assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains
distributions at net asset value on the payable date, and do not
include sales charge; results would be lower if sales charge was
included.
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
Performance Summary--Class B Shares
<CAPTION>
Net Asset Value Capital Gains
Period Covered Beginning Ending Distributed Dividends Paid* % Change**
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
3/27/92--12/31/92 $10.00 $10.34 -- $0.460 + 8.13%
1993 10.34 10.92 $0.081 0.581 +12.24
1994 10.92 9.70 -- 0.506 - 6.65
1995 9.70 10.69 -- 0.497 +15.62
1/1/96--1/31/96 10.69 10.68 -- 0.028 + 0.27
------ ------
Total $0.081 Total $2.072
Cumulative total return as of 1/31/96: +31.34%**
<FN>
*Figures may include short-term capital gains distributions.
**Figures assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains
distributions at net asset value on the payable date, and do not
reflect deduction of any sales charge; results would be lower if
sales charge was deducted.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
Performance Summary--Class C Shares
<CAPTION>
Net Asset Value Capital Gains
Period Covered Beginning Ending Distributed Dividends Paid* % Change**
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
10/21/94--12/31/94 $ 9.99 $ 9.70 -- $0.095 - 1.94%
1995 9.70 10.69 -- 0.485 +15.49
1/1/96--1/31/96 10.69 10.68 -- 0.028 + 0.26
------
Total $0.608
Cumulative total return as of 1/31/96: +13.54%**
<FN>
*Figures may include short-term capital gains distributions.
**Figures assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains
distributions at net asset value on the payable date, and do not
reflect deduction of any sales charge; results would be lower if
sales charge was deducted.
</TABLE>
PERFORMANCE DATA (concluded)
<TABLE>
Performance Summary--Class D Shares
<CAPTION>
Net Asset Value Capital Gains
Period Covered Beginning Ending Distributed Dividends Paid* % Change**
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
10/21/94--12/31/94 $ 9.99 $ 9.70 -- $0.106 - 1.83%
1995 9.70 10.70 -- 0.540 +16.20
1/1/96--1/31/96 10.70 10.68 -- 0.031 + 0.20
------
Total $0.677
Cumulative total return as of 1/31/96: +14.30%**
<FN>
*Figures may include short-term capital gains distributions.
**Figures assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains
distributions at net asset value on the payable date, and do not
include sales charge; results would be lower if sales charge was
included.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
Average Annual Total Return
% Return Without % Return With
Sales Charge Sales Charge**
Class A Shares*
Year Ended 12/31/95 +16.33% +11.67%
Inception (3/27/92)
through 12/31/95 + 7.98 + 6.82
[FN]
*Maximum sales charge is 4%.
**Assuming maximum sales charge.
% Return % Return
Without CDSC With CDSC**
Class B Shares*
Year Ended 12/31/95 +15.62% +11.62%
Inception (3/27/92)
through 12/31/95 + 7.43 + 7.22
[FN]
*Maximum contingent deferred sales charge is 4% and is reduced to 0%
after 4 years.
**Assuming payment of applicable contingent deferred sales charge.
% Return % Return
Without CDSC With CDSC**
Class C Shares*
Year Ended 12/31/95 +15.49% +14.49%
Inception (10/21/94)
through 12/31/95 +10.98 +10.98
[FN]
*Maximum contingent deferred sales charge is 1% and is reduced to 0%
after 1 year.
**Assuming payment of applicable contingent deferred sales charge.
<PAGE>
% Return Without % Return With
Sales Charge Sales Charge**
Class D Shares*
Year Ended 12/31/95 +16.20% +11.55%
Inception (10/21/94)
through 12/31/95 +11.66 + 7.91
[FN]
*Maximum sales charge is 4%.
**Assuming maximum sales charge.
PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS
To simplify the listings of Merrill Lynch Minnesota Municipal Bond
Fund's portfolio holdings in the Schedule of Investments, we have
abbreviated the names of many of the securities according to the
list below and at right.
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax (subject to)
EDA Economic Development Authority
GO General Obligation Bonds
HFA Housing Finance Agency
IDR Industrial Development Revenue Bonds
IRS Inverse Rate Securities
M/F Multi-Family
PCR Pollution Control Revenue Bonds
S/F Single-Family
UT Unlimited Tax
VRDN Variable Rate Demand Notes
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (in Thousands)
<CAPTION>
S&P Moody's Face Value
Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a)
Minnesota--98.4%
<S> <S> <C> <S> <C>
NR* A $ 1,475 Alexandria, Minnesota, Independent School District No. 206, UT, Series A,
6.30% due 2/01/2010 $ 1,572
A1+ Aa3 2,225 Anoka County, Minnesota, Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds (National
Rural Utilities), AMT, Series A, 6.95% due 12/01/2008 2,396
A1+ NR* 1,000 Beltrami County, Minnesota, Environmental Control Revenue Refunding Bonds
(Northwood Panelboard Co. Project), VRDN, 3.75% due 12/01/2021 (a) 1,000
NR* A1 660 Blaine, Minnesota, EDA, Public Project, Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series A,
6.25% due 12/01/2010 (f) 709
NR* Baa1 1,000 Clay County, Minnesota, Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Lease
Revenue Bonds, 6.50% due 2/01/2014 1,031
AAA NR* 3,530 Coon Rapids, Minnesota, M/F Housing Revenue Refunding Bonds (Browns
Meadow), AMT, 6.85% due 8/01/2033 (h) 3,662
AA Aa 1,825 Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Independent School District No. 022, UT,
5% due 4/01/2016 1,777
AAA NR* 1,000 Duluth, Minnesota, EDA, Hospital Facilities Revenue Refunding Bonds
(Saint Luke's Hospital of Duluth), Series B, 6.40% due 5/01/2018 (c) 1,071
BBB+ NR* 1,750 Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Health Care Facilities, Revenue Refunding Bonds
(Lake Region Hospital Corporation Project), Series A, 6.50% due 9/01/2018 1,776
A- A 2,000 Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota, Housing and Redevelopment
Authority, Health Care System Revenue Bonds (Group Health Plan
Incorporated Project), 6.90% due 10/15/2022 2,161
AAA Aaa 1,500 Minneapolis, Minnesota, Sales Tax Refunding Bonds, GO, UT, 6.25% due
4/01/2012 1,617
AAA Aa 1,300 Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, Water, PCR, Series A, 6.50%
due 3/01/2014 1,419
AA+ Aa1 1,000 Minnesota State, Duluth Airport Revenue Bonds, AMT, Series B, 6.25%
due 8/01/2014 1,061
AA+ Aa1 1,500 Minnesota State, GO, UT, 6% due 10/01/2014 1,601
Minnesota State HFA, S/F Mortgage:
AA+ Aa 1,750 AMT, Series E, 6.85% due 1/01/2024 1,826
AA+ Aa 1,500 AMT, Series L, 6.70% due 7/01/2020 1,553
AA+ Aa 890 Series A, 6.95% due 7/01/2016 949
AA+ Aa 1,665 Series D-1, 6.50% due 1/01/2017 1,736
AA+ Aa 1,000 Series F, 6.30% due 7/01/2025 1,024
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (concluded) (in Thousands)
<CAPTION>
S&P Moody's Face Value
Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a)
Minnesota (concluded)
<S> <S> <C> <S> <C>
Minnesota State Higher Educational Facilities Authority, Mortgage
Revenue Bonds:
AAA NR* $ 1,000 (Augsburg College), Series 3-G, 6.50% due 1/01/2011 (c) $ 1,066
NR* Baa 1,000 Refunding (Saint Mary's College), Series 3-Q, 6.15% due 10/01/2023 1,020
Minnesota State Higher Educational Facilities Authority Revenue Bonds:
NR* Baa 1,500 (College State Benedict), Series 3-W, 6.375% due 3/01/2020 1,541
AA- Aa 550 Refunding (Macalester College), Series 3-J, 6.30% due 3/01/2014 583
AA- Aa 1,250 Refunding (Macalester College), Series 3-J, 6.40% due 3/01/2022 1,323
A A 890 Northern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Electric System Revenue
Refunding Bonds, Series A, 7.25% due 1/01/2016 956
NR* A 500 Northfield, Minnesota, College Facilities Revenue Refunding Bonds
(Saint Olaf College Project), 6.40% due 10/01/2021 530
AA+ NR* 6,900 Rochester, Minnesota, Health Care Facilities Revenue Bonds (Mayo
Foundation), IRS, Series H, 6.026% due 11/15/2015(i) 7,213
AAA Aaa 1,000 Saint Francis, Minnesota, Independent School District No. 015, UT,
Series A, 6.35% due 2/01/2013 1,102
Saint Paul, Minnesota, Housing and Redevelopment Authority Revenue Bonds:
A- NR* 1,750 Parking, Series A, 6.55% due 8/01/2000 (g) 1,950
A A 3,175 Sales Tax (Civic Center Project), 5.55% due 11/01/2023 3,194
AAA NR* 925 S/F Mortgage, Refunding, Series C, 6.95% due 12/01/2031 (e) 968
Saint Paul, Minnesota, Independent School District No. 625, UT:
AA Aa 3,200 Series A, 4.75% due 2/01/2016 3,030
AA Aa 1,125 Series B, 6.25% due 2/01/2013 1,184
Sartell, Minnesota, Refunding (Champion International):
BBB Baa1 990 IDR, 6.95% due 7/01/2012 1,069
BBB Baa1 665 PCR, 6.95% due 10/01/2012 718
AAA Aaa 4,000 Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Power Supply Systems, Revenue
Refunding Bonds, Series A, 6.085%** due 1/01/2024 (d) 895
AAA Aaa 820 Western Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Power Supply Revenue Bonds,
Series A, 6.375% due 1/01/2016 (f) 896
<PAGE>
AAA Aaa 1,750 Wilmar, Minnesota, Independent School District No. 347, GO, UT, Series C,
6.25% due 2/01/2015 (b) 1,861
Total Investments (Cost--$57,112)--98.4% 61,040
Other Assets Less Liabilities--1.6% 996
-------
Net Assets--100.0% $62,036
=======
<FN>
(a)The interest rate is subject to change periodically based upon
prevailing market rates. The interest rate shown is the rate in
effect at January 31, 1996.
(b)AMBAC Insured.
(c)Insured by Connie Lee.
(d)MBIA Insured.
(e)FNMA Collateralized.
(f)Escrowed to Maturity.
(g)Prerefunded.
(h)FHA Insured.
(i)The interest rate is subject to change periodically and inversely
based upon prevailing market rates. The interest rate shown is the
rate in effect at January 31, 1996.
*Not Rated.
**Represents a zero coupon bond; the interest rate shown is the
effective yield at the time of purchase by the Fund.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
<TABLE>
Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of January 31, 1996
<S> <S> <C> <C>
Assets: Investments, at value (identified cost--$57,111,684) (Note 1a) $ 61,039,677
Cash 96,458
Receivables:
Interest $ 967,882
Beneficial interest sold 75,145
Securities sold 25,137 1,068,164
------------
Deferred organization expenses (Note 1e) 13,319
Prepaid registration fees and other assets (Note 1e) 43,921
------------
Total assets 62,261,539
------------
<PAGE>
Liabilities: Payables:
Dividends to shareholders (Note 1f) 70,645
Distributor (Note 2) 22,436
Investment adviser (Note 2) 20,237
Beneficial interest redeemed 15,264 128,582
------------
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 97,317
------------
Total liabilities 225,899
------------
Net Assets: Net assets $ 62,035,640
============
Net Assets Class A Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value, unlimited
Consist of: number of shares authorized $ 60,977
Class B Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value, unlimited
number of shares authorized 503,643
Class C Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value, unlimited
number of shares authorized 9,287
Class D Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value, unlimited
number of shares authorized 7,147
Paid-in capital in excess of par 59,014,343
Accumulated realized capital losses on investments--net (Note 5) (677,810)
Accumulated distributions in excess of realized capital gains--net (809,940)
Unrealized appreciation on investments--net 3,927,993
------------
Net assets $ 62,035,640
============
Net Asset Value: Class A--Based on net assets of $6,509,428 and 609,772 shares
of beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.68
============
Class B--Based on net assets of $53,771,031 and 5,036,434 shares
of beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.68
============
Class C--Based on net assets of $991,638 and 92,871 shares
of beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.68
============
Class D--Based on net assets of $763,543 and 71,471 shares
of beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.68
============
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)
<TABLE>
Statement of Operations
<CAPTION>
For the Six Months Ended January 31, 1996
<S> <S> <C> <C>
Investment Income Interest and amortization of premium and discount earned $ 1,834,020
(Note 1d):
Expenses: Investment advisory fees (Note 2) $ 167,680
Account maintenance and distribution fees--Class B (Note 2) 132,180
Professional fees 27,605
Accounting services (Note 2) 27,500
Printing and shareholder reports 24,045
Transfer agent fees--Class B (Note 2) 17,678
Registration fees (Note 1e) 6,875
Amortization of organization expenses (Note 1e) 3,947
Pricing fees 3,221
Custodian fees 2,085
Account maintenance and distribution fees--Class C (Note 2) 1,969
Transfer agent fees--Class A (Note 2) 1,873
Trustees' fees and expenses 1,405
Account maintenance fees--Class D (Note 2) 346
Transfer agent fees--Class C (Note 2) 238
Transfer agent fees--Class D (Note 2) 192
Other 457
------------
Total expenses before reimbursement 419,296
Reimbursement of expenses (Note 2) (45,731)
------------
Total expenses after reimbursement 373,565
------------
Investment income--net 1,460,455
------------
Realized & Realized gain on investments--net 267,690
Unrealized Gain on Change in unrealized appreciation on investments--net 1,867,930
Investments--Net ------------
(Notes 1b, Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting from Operations $ 3,596,075
1d & 3): ============
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
<CAPTION>
For the Six For the
Months Ended Year Ended
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets: Jan. 31, 1996 July 31, 1995
<S> <S> <C> <C>
Operations: Investment income--net $ 1,460,455 $ 3,075,897
Realized gain (loss) on investments--net 267,690 (945,500)
Change in unrealized appreciation on investments--net 1,867,930 506,946
------------ ------------
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations 3,596,075 2,637,343
------------ ------------
Dividends to Investment income--net:
Shareholders Class A (177,160) (407,132)
(Note 1f): Class B (1,250,436) (2,647,786)
Class C (15,081) (6,180)
Class D (17,778) (14,799)
------------ ------------
Net decrease in net assets resulting from dividends
to shareholders (1,460,455) (3,075,897)
------------ ------------
Beneficial Net decrease in net assets derived from beneficial
Interest interest transactions (229,395) (5,201,307)
Transactions ------------ ------------
(Note 4):
Net Assets: Total increase (decrease) in net assets 1,906,225 (5,639,861)
Beginning of period 60,129,415 65,769,276
------------ ------------
End of period $ 62,035,640 $ 60,129,415
============ ============
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
Financial Highlights
<CAPTION>
Class A
For the For the
Six Period
The following per share data and ratios have been derived Months March 27,
from information provided in the financial statements. Ended 1992++ to
Jan. 31, For the Year Ended July 31, July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992
<S> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 10.31 $ 10.33 $ 10.83 $ 10.58 $ 10.00
Operating -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Performance: Investment income--net .28 .55 .55 .58 .20
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on
investments--net .37 (.02) (.35) .30 .58
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations .65 .53 .20 .88 .78
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Less dividends and distributions:
Investment income--net (.28) (.55) (.55) (.58) (.20)
Realized gain on investments--net -- -- -- (.05) --
In excess of realized gain on
investments--net -- -- (.15) -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total dividends and distributions (.28) (.55) (.70) (.63) (.20)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 10.68 $ 10.31 $ 10.33 $ 10.83 $ 10.58
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total Investment Based on net asset value per share 6.31%+++ 5.44% 1.87% 8.71% 7.88%+++
Return:** ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratios to Expenses, net of reimbursement .77%* .75% .69% .45% .12%*
Average ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net Assets: Expenses .92%* .92% 1.03% 1.04% 1.18%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Investment income--net 5.23%* 5.51% 5.18% 5.56% 5.73%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 6,509 $ 6,936 $ 8,810 $ 12,859 $ 9,493
Data: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Portfolio turnover 16.33% 22.36% 58.67% 23.83% 30.39%
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
<FN>
*Annualized.
**Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales loads.
++Commencement of Operations.
+++Aggregate total investment return.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (concluded)
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
Financial Highlights (concluded)
<CAPTION>
Class B
For the Six For the Period
The following per share data and ratios have been derived Months March 27,
from information provided in the financial statements. Ended 1992++ to
Jan. 31, For the Year Ended July 31, July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992
<S> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 10.31 $ 10.33 $ 10.83 $ 10.58 $ 10.00
Operating -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Performance: Investment income--net .25 .50 .50 .53 .18
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on
investments--net .37 (.02) (.35) .30 .58
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations .62 .48 .15 .83 .76
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Less dividends and distributions:
Investment income--net (.25) (.50) (.50) (.53) (.18)
Realized gain on investments--net -- -- -- (.05) --
In excess of realized gain on
investments--net -- -- (.15) -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total dividends and distributions (.25) (.50) (.65) (.58) (.18)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 10.68 $ 10.31 $ 10.33 $ 10.83 $ 10.58
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total Investment Based on net asset value per share 6.05%+++ 4.91% 1.35% 8.16% 7.69%+++
Return:** ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratios to Expenses, net of reimbursement 1.28%* 1.27% 1.21% .96% .62%*
Average ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net Assets: Expenses 1.43%* 1.44% 1.54% 1.55% 1.70%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Investment income--net 4.72%* 5.00% 4.70% 5.03% 5.13%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental Net assets, end of period (in thousands). $ 53,771 $ 52,023 $ 56,960 $ 54,921 $ 32,686
Data: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Portfolio turnover 16.33% 22.36% 58.67% 23.83% 30.39%
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
<PAGE>
<CAPTION>
Class C Class D
For the For the For the For the
Six Period Six Period
The following per share data and ratios have been derived Months Oct. 21, Months Oct. 21,
from information provided in the financial statements. Ended 1994++ to Ended 1994++ to
Jan. 31, July 31, Jan. 31, July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1996 1995 1996 1995
<S> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 10.31 $ 9.99 $ 10.31 $ 9.99
Operating -------- -------- -------- --------
Performance: Investment income--net .24 .37 .27 .41
Realized and unrealized gain on investments--net .37 .32 .37 .32
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations .61 .69 .64 .73
-------- -------- -------- --------
Less dividends from investment income--net (.24) (37) (.27) (.41)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 10.68 $ 10.31 $ 10.68 $ 10.31
======== ======== ======== ========
Total Investment Based on net asset value per share 5.99%+++ 7.13%+++ 6.26%+++ 7.57%+++
Return:** ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratios to Expenses, net of reimbursement 1.39%* 1.46%* .87%* .92%*
Average Net ======== ======== ======== ========
Assets: Expenses 1.54%* 1.61%* 1.02%* 1.07%*
======== ======== ======== ========
Investment income--net 4.58%* 4.70%* 5.13%* 5.27%*
======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 992 $ 375 $ 764 $ 796
Data: ======== ======== ======== ========
Portfolio turnover 16.33% 22.36% 16.33% 22.36%
======== ======== ======== ========
<FN>
*Annualized.
++Commencement of Operations.
**Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales loads.
+++Aggregate total investment return.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Significant Accounting Policies:
Merrill Lynch Minnesota Municipal Bond Fund (the "Fund") is part of
Merrill Lynch Multi-State Municipal Series Trust (the "Trust"). The
Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as a non-
diversified, open-end management investment company. These unaudited
financial statements reflect all adjustments which are, in the
opinion of management, necessary to a fair statement of the results
for the interim period presented. All such adjustments are of a
normal recurring nature. The Fund offers four classes of shares
under the Merrill Lynch Select Pricing SM System. Shares of Class A
and Class D are sold with a front-end sales charge. Shares of Class
B and Class C may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
All classes of shares have identical voting, dividend, liquidation
and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except that
Class B, Class C and Class D Shares bear certain expenses related to
the account maintenance of such shares, and Class B and Class C
Shares also bear certain expenses related to the distribution of
such shares. Each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to
matters relating to its account maintenance and distribution
expenditures. The following is a summary of significant accounting
policies followed by the Fund.
(a) Valuation of investments--Municipal bonds and other portfolio
securities in which the Fund invests are traded primarily in the
over-the-counter municipal bond and money markets and are valued at
the last available bid price in the over-the-counter market or on
the basis of yield equivalents as obtained from one or more dealers
that make markets in the securities. Financial futures contracts and
options thereon, which are traded on exchanges, are valued at their
settlement prices as of the close of such exchanges. Short-term
investments with remaining maturities of sixty days or less are
valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value.
Securities and assets for which market quotations are not readily
available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by or
under the direction of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, including
valuations furnished by a pricing service retained by the Trust,
which may utilize a matrix system for valuations. The procedures of
the pricing service and its valuations are reviewed by the officers
of the Trust under the general supervision of the Trustees.
(b) Derivative financial instruments--The Fund may engage in various
portfolio strategies to seek to increase its return by hedging its
portfolio against adverse movements in the debt markets. Losses may
arise due to changes in the value of the contract or if the
counterparty does not perform under the contract.
<PAGE>
* Financial futures contracts--The Fund may purchase or sell
interest rate futures contracts and options on such futures
contracts for the purpose of hedging the market risk on existing
securities or the intended purchase of securities. Futures contracts
are contracts for delayed delivery of securities at a specific
future date and at a specific price or yield. Upon entering into a
contract, the Fund deposits and maintains as collateral such initial
margin as required by the exchange on which the transaction is
effected. Pursuant to the contract, the Fund agrees to receive from
or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily
fluctuation in value of the contract. Such receipts or payments are
known as variation margin and are recorded by the Fund as unrealized
gains or losses. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a
realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of
the contract at the time it was opened and the value at the time it
was closed.
(c) Income taxes--It is the Fund's policy to comply with the
requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated
investment companies and to distribute substantially all of its
taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no Federal income tax
provision is required.
(d) Security transactions and investment income--Security
transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered
into (the trade dates). Interest income is recognized on the accrual
basis. Discounts and market premiums are amortized into interest
income. Realized gains and losses on security transactions are
determined on the identified cost basis.
(e) Deferred organization expenses and prepaid registration fees--
Deferred organization expenses are charged to expense on a straight-
line basis over a five-year period. Prepaid registration fees are
charged to expense as the related shares are issued.
(f) Dividends and distributions--Dividends from net investment
income are declared daily and paid monthly. Distributions of capital
gains are recorded on the ex-dividend dates.
2. Investment Advisory Agreement and
Transactions with Affiliates:
The Fund has entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with Fund
Asset Management, L.P. ("FAM"). The general partner of FAM is
Princeton Services, Inc. ("PSI"), an indirect wholly-owned
subsidiary of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. ("ML & Co."), which is the
limited partner. The Fund has also entered into a Distribution
Agreement and Distribution Plans with Merrill Lynch Funds
Distributor, Inc. ("MLFD" or "Distributor"), a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Merrill Lynch Group, Inc.
<PAGE>
FAM is responsible for the management of the Fund's portfolio and
provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain
other services necessary to the operations of the Fund. For such
services, the Fund pays a monthly fee based upon the average daily
value of the Fund's net assets at the following annual rates: 0.55%
of the Fund's average daily net assets not exceeding $500 million;
0.525% of average daily net assets in excess of $500 million but not
exceeding $1 billion; and 0.50% of average daily net assets in
excess of $1 billion. The Investment Advisory Agreement obligates
FAM to reimburse the Fund to the extent the Fund's expenses
(excluding interest, taxes, distribution fees, brokerage fees and
commissions, and extraordinary items) exceed 2.5% of the Fund's
first $30 million of average daily net assets, 2.0% of the next $70
million of average daily net assets, and 1.5% of the average daily
net assets in excess thereof. FAM's obligation to reimburse the Fund
is limited to the amount of the management fee. No fee payment will
be made to FAM during any fiscal year which will cause such expenses
to exceed expense limitations at the time of payment. For the six
months ended January 31, 1996, FAM earned fees of $167,680, of which
$45,731 was voluntarily waived.
Pursuant to the distribution plans (the "Distribution Plans")
adopted by the Fund in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, the Fund pays the Distributor
ongoing account maintenance and distribution fees. The fees are
accrued daily and paid monthly at annual rates based upon the
average daily net assets of the shares as follows:
Account
Maintenance Distribution
Fee Fee
Class B 0.25% 0.25%
Class C 0.25% 0.35%
Class D 0.10% --
Pursuant to a sub-agreement with the Distributor, Merrill Lynch,
Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. ("MLPF&S"), a subsidiary of ML & Co.,
also provides account maintenance and distribution services to the
Fund. The ongoing account maintenance fee compensates the
Distributor and MLPF&S for providing account maintenance services to
Class B, Class C and Class D shareholders. The ongoing distribution
fee compensates the Distributor and MLPF&S for providing shareholder
and distribution-related services to Class B and Class C
shareholders.
For the six months ended January 31, 1996, MLFD earned underwriting
discounts and MLPF&S earned dealer concessions on sales of the
Fund's Class A and Class D Shares as follows:
MLFD MLPF&S
Class A $ 71 $ 722
Class D $ 471 $4,827
<PAGE>
For the six months ended January 31, 1996, MLPF&S received
contingent deferred sales charges of $23,795 and $7 relating to
transactions in Class B and Class C Shares, respectively.
Merrill Lynch Financial Data Services, Inc. ("MLFDS"), a wholly-
owned subsidiary of ML & Co., is the Fund's transfer agent.
Accounting services are provided to the Fund by FAM at cost.
Certain officers and/or trustees of the Fund are officers and/or
directors of FAM, PSI, MLPF&S, MLFDS, MLFD, and/or ML & Co.
3. Investments:
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities,
for the six months ended January 31, 1996 were $11,118,056 and
$9,641,815, respectively.
Net realized and unrealized gains as of January 31, 1996 were as
follows:
Realized Unrealized
Gains Gains
Long-term investments $ 267,690 $ 3,927,993
------------ ------------
Total $ 267,690 $ 3,927,993
============ ============
As of January 31, 1996, net unrealized appreciation for Federal
income tax purposes aggregated $3,927,993, all of which related to
appreciated securities. The aggregate cost of investments at January
31, 1996 for Federal income tax purposes was $57,111,684.
4. Beneficial Interest Transactions:
Net decrease in net assets derived from beneficial interest
transactions was $229,395 and $5,201,307 for the six months ended
January 31, 1996 and for the year ended July 31, 1995, respectively.
Transactions in shares of beneficial interest for each class were as
follows:
<PAGE>
Class A Shares for the
Six Months Ended Dollar
January 31, 1996 Shares Amount
Shares sold 12,227 $ 127,685
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 8,725 91,471
----------- ------------
Total issued 20,952 219,156
Shares redeemed (84,183) (880,963)
----------- ------------
Net decrease (63,231) $ (661,807)
=========== ============
Class A Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1995 Shares Amount
Shares sold 49,385 $ 491,560
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 20,298 204,295
----------- ------------
Total issued 69,683 695,855
Shares redeemed (249,214) (2,473,727)
----------- ------------
Net decrease (179,531) $ (1,777,872)
=========== ============
Class B Shares for the
Six Months Ended Dollar
January 31, 1996 Shares Amount
Shares sold 232,227 $ 2,447,923
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 65,006 681,590
----------- ------------
Total issued 297,233 3,129,513
Shares redeemed (308,407) (3,236,118)
----------- ------------
Net decrease (11,174) $ (106,605)
=========== ============
Class B Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1995 Shares Amount
Shares sold 500,298 $ 5,026,448
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 145,027 1,460,745
----------- ------------
Total issued 645,325 6,487,193
Shares redeemed (1,109,526) (11,061,375)
----------- ------------
Net decrease (464,201) $ (4,574,182)
=========== ============
<PAGE>
Class C Shares for the
Six Months Ended Dollar
January 31, 1996 Shares Amount
Shares sold 57,446 $ 604,460
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 1,093 11,509
----------- ------------
Total issued 58,539 615,969
Shares redeemed (2,014) (21,306)
----------- ------------
Net increase 56,525 $ 594,663
=========== ============
Class C Shares for the Period
October 21, 1994++ to Dollar
July 31, 1995 Shares Amount
Shares sold 38,161 $ 389,432
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 559 5,738
----------- ------------
Total issued 38,720 395,170
Shares redeemed (2,374) (24,700)
----------- ------------
Net increase 36,346 $ 370,470
=========== ============
<FN>
++Commencement of Operations.
Class D Shares for the
Six Months Ended Dollar
January 31, 1996 Shares Amount
Shares sold 41,642 $ 441,133
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 800 8,376
----------- ------------
Total issued 42,442 449,509
Shares redeemed (48,128) (505,155)
----------- ------------
Net decrease (5,686) $ (55,646)
=========== ============
<PAGE>
Class D Shares for the Period
October 21, 1994++ to Dollar
July 31, 1995 Shares Amount
Shares sold 76,912 $ 777,785
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends 673 6,941
----------- ------------
Total issued 77,585 784,726
Shares redeemed (428) (4,449)
----------- ------------
Net increase 77,157 $ 780,277
=========== ============
<FN>
++Commencement of Operations.
5. Capital Loss Carryforward:
At July 31, 1995, the Fund had a net capital loss carryforward of
approximately $881,000, all of which expires in 2003. This amount
will be available to offset like amounts of any future taxable
gains.
</TABLE>
