EATON VANCE MUNICIPALS TRUST II
N-30D, 1997-10-06
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<PAGE>
 

[LOGO OF EATON VANCE APPEARS HERE]



                                       [PHOTO OF STOCK CERTIFICATE APPEARS HERE]


     Semiannual Report July 31, 1997

[PHOTO OF PAUL REVERE STATUE APPEARS HERE]


                                      EV
                                  TRADITIONAL
                                  HIGH YIELD
                                  MUNICIPALS
                                     FUND



                                  Eaton Vance
                    Global Management - Global Distribution



[PHOTO OF BOSTON HARBOR SCENE APPEARS HERE]

                                                                     Traditional

<PAGE>
 
EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund as of July 31, 1997
INVESTMENT UPDATE


[PHOTO OF THOMAS M. METZOLD, PORTFOLIO MANAGER APPEARS HERE]

Investment Environment
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Economy

 . The U.S. economy posted solid growth in the first half of the year. Gross
  domestic product advanced a robust 3.6% in the second quarter, while
  unemployment fell to a 24-year low of 4.8%. Despite the strong economic
  climate, inflation remained in the 2-to-3% range.

 . While inflation seemed generally in check, the Federal Reserve nonetheless
  maintained a vigilant policy. In March, the Fed raised its Federal funds
  target rate - a key short-term rate barometer - to 5.5%.

 . The municipal market modestly outperformed the Treasury market in the first
  half of 1997. In a volatile interest rate environment, the high-yield segment
  of the municipal market fared slightly better than the investment grade
  sector.

Management Update
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 . Industrial development bonds remained the largest market sector weighting in
  the Portfolio. Within that sector, we were diversified across a wide spectrum
  of economic activity, including the paper industry, waste disposal, resource
  recovery, and energy projects.

 . We continued to find value in assisted living and life care bonds. These
  non-rated issues require especially intensive research - a specialty at Eaton
  Vance - and have provided excellent income for the Fund.

 . In a highly volatile period, the Fund benefitted from its credit-driven bonds,
  which, unlike more interest rate-sensitive bonds, tend to ignore rate
  fluctuations and respond to the underlying fundamentals of issuers.

The Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 . During the six months ended July 31, 1997, the Fund had a total return of
  8.6%./1/ This return resulted from a rise in net asset value per share to
  $11.22 on July 31, 1997 from $10.66 on January 31, 1997, and the reinvestment
  of $0.340 per share in tax-free income./2/

 . Based on the Fund's most recent dividend, and a net asset value of $11.22 per
  share, the Fund's distribution rate on July 31, 1997 was 6.11%. To equal 6.11%
  in a taxable investment, a couple in the 36.00% federal tax bracket would need
  a yield of 9.55%. The Fund's SEC yield at July 31 was 5.72%./3/

 . The Fund's one-year return of 14.8% ranked it #3 among 47 High Yield Municipal
  Debt funds, according to Lipper Analytical Services, Inc./4/ 

Your Investment at Work
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Glen Cove NY Industrial Development Agency             [ARTWORK APPEARS
  The Regency at Glen Cove                                     HERE]

 . These bonds were issued to finance the construction of an Adult Home for
  elderly residents who require assistance with daily living activities and
  other rehabilitation care.

 . Consisting of 96 living units, the Regency is a good example of municipal
  bonds funding a novel approach to serving the life care needs of older 
  citizens.

 . These non-rated, zero-coupon bonds afforded the Portfolio additional capital
  appreciation potential while providing a good balance to the Portfolio's
  predominantly higher-yielding holdings.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
/1/ This return does not include the Fund's maximum initial 3.75% sales charge.

/2/ A portion of the Fund's income could be subject to federal income tax or
    alternative minimum tax.

/3/ The Fund's SEC yield is calculated by dividing the net investment income per
    share for the 30-day period by the net asset value at the end of the period
    and annualizing the result.

/4/ Lipper rankings are based on total return and do not take sales charges into
    consideration.

/5/ Returns are calculated by determining the percentage change in net asset
    value (NAV) with all distributions reinvested. SEC average annual returns
    reflect the Fund's maximum 3.75% sales charge. Past performance is not
    indicative of future results. The value of an investment in the Fund will
    fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than
    their original cost.

/6/ Because the Fund is actively managed, sector weightings and Portfolio
    overview are subject to change.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mutual fund shares are not insured by the FDIC and are not deposits or other
obligations of, or guaranteed by, any depository institution. Shares are subject
to investment risks, including possible loss of principal invested.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fund Information
as of July 31, 1997

Performance/5/
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

Average Annual Total Returns (at net asset value)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                        <C> 
One Year                                                                   14.8%
Life of Fund (8/7/95)                                                      13.2

<CAPTION> 

SEC Average Annual Total Returns (including 3.75% sales charge)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                        <C> 
One Year                                                                   10.5%
Life of Fund (8/7/95)                                                      11.1
</TABLE> 

5 Largest Sectors/6/
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By total investments

                            [BARGRAPH APPEARS HERE]
<TABLE> 
<S>                                                                        <C> 
Industrial Development Bonds                                               26.8%
Housing                                                                    11.2%
Life Care                                                                  10.7%
Assisted Living                                                             9.2%
Hospitals                                                                   8.6%
</TABLE> 

Portfolio Overview/6/
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE> 
<S>                                                                    <C> 
Number of Issues                                                             106
Average Maturity                                                       24.2 Yrs.
Effective Maturity                                                     11.8 Yrs.
Average Rating                                                               BB+
Average Call                                                            9.6 Yrs.
Average Dollar Price                                                      $98.56
</TABLE> 
                                       2
<PAGE>
 
EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund as of July 31, 1997 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Statement of Assets and Liabilities                             

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

As of July 31, 1997
Assets
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                 <C> 
Investment in High Yield Municipals Portfolio, at value             $77,874,595
   (Note 1A) (identified cost, $72,120,538)
Receivable for Fund shares sold                                       2,827,770
Deferred organization expenses (Note 1E)                                 27,030
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total assets                                                        $80,729,395
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Liabilities
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends payable                                                   $   268,939
Payable to affiliate for Trustees' fees (Note 4)                            139 
Accrued expenses                                                         19,830
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities                                                   $   288,908
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Assets for 7,168,518 shares of
   beneficial interest outstanding                                  $80,440,487
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Sources of Net Assets
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paid-in capital                                                     $75,469,574
Accumulated net realized loss on investments (computed on 
   the basis of identified cost)                                       (758,844)
Accumulated net investment loss                                         (24,300)
Net unrealized appreciation of investments (computed on 
   the basis of identified cost)                                      5,754,057
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                               $80,440,487
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Net Asset Value and Redemption 
Price Per Share
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
($80,440,487 / 7,168,518 shares of beneficial 
   interest outstanding)                                            $     11.22
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Computation of Offering Price
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Offering price per share (100 / 96.25 of $11.22)                    $     11.66
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On sales of $50,000 or more, the offering price is reduced.


Statement of Operations

For the Six Months Ended July 31, 1997
Investment Income (Note 1B)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest income allocated from  Portfolio                           $ 2,456,667
Expenses allocated from Portfolio                                      (235,172)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income from Portfolio                                $ 2,221,495
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Expenses
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Compensation of Trustees not members of the Administrator's   
   organization (Note 4)                                            $       964
Service fees (Note 5)                                                    42,615
Transfer and dividend disbursing agent fees                              27,902
Registration fees                                                        25,821
Printing and postage                                                     23,091
Legal and accounting services                                             8,520
Amortization of organization expenses (Note 1E)                           4,436
Custodian fee                                                             3,981
Miscellaneous                                                             2,431
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total expenses                                                      $   139,761
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net investment income                                               $ 2,081,734
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Realized and Unrealized 
Gain (Loss) from Portfolio
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized gain (loss) --  
   Investment transactions (identified cost basis)                  $    30,420
   Financial futures contracts                                         (395,126)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized loss on investment transactions                        $  (364,706)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) --
   Investments                                                      $ 4,181,544
   Financial futures contracts                                           13,503
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)    
   of investments                                                   $ 4,195,047
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net realized and unrealized gain on investments                     $ 3,830,341
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations                $ 5,912,075
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 
                                                                                
                       See notes to financial statements

                                       3
<PAGE>

EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund as of July 31, 1997 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONT'D 
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                   
                                                Six Months Ended   
Increase (Decrease)                             July 31, 1997      Year Ended       
in Net Assets                                   (Unaudited)        January 31, 1997 
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>                <C> 
From operations --  
   Net investment income                       $ 2,081,734         $ 2,937,300
   Net realized loss on investments               (364,706)           (394,138)
   Net change in unrealized                                       
      appreciation (depreciation)                                 
      of investments                             4,195,047             755,235
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
Net increase in net assets                                        
   from operations                             $ 5,912,075         $ 3,298,397
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
Distributions to shareholders --                                    
   From net investment income                  $(2,081,734)        $(2,937,300)
   In excess of net investment income              (18,489)             (5,554)
   From net realized gain on investments                --              (4,443)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
Total distributions to shareholders            $(2,100,223)        $(2,947,297)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
Transactions in shares of beneficial                              
   interest (Note 3)                                              
   Proceeds from sale of shares                $22,607,774         $33,175,857
   Net asset value of shares issued to                            
      shareholders in payment of                                  
      distributions declared                       712,947             918,102
   Cost of shares redeemed                      (5,038,581)         (6,633,178)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
Net increase in net assets from Fund                              
   share transactions                          $18,282,140         $27,460,781
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

Net increase in net assets                     $22,093,992         $27,811,881
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
                                                                  

Net Assets                                                        
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At beginning of period                         $58,346,495         $30,534,614
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
At end of period                               $80,440,487         $58,346,495
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
                                                                  

Accumulated 
distributions in excess of 
net investment income 
included in net assets                          
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
At end of period                               $   (24,300)        $    (5,811)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
</TABLE> 

                       See notes to financial statements

                                       4
<PAGE>

EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund as of July 31, 1997 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONT'D 
Financial Highlights

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                                                           
                                                           Six Months Ended      Year Ended January 31,     
                                                           July 31, 1997      ----------------------------
                                                           (Unaudited)         1997              1996*
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                        <C>                <C>              <C> 
Net asset value --  Beginning of period                     $10.660           $10.700          $10.000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                        
                                                                                        
Income (loss) from operations                                                           
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income                                       $ 0.338           $ 0.703          $ 0.340
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments        0.562            (0.038)           0.700
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total income from operations                                $ 0.900           $ 0.665          $ 1.040
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                        
                                                                                        
Less distributions                                                                      
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From net investment income                                  $(0.338)          $(0.703)         $(0.340)
In excess of net investment income                           (0.002)           (0.001)              --
From net realized gain on investments                            --            (0.001)              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions                                         $(0.340)          $(0.705)         $(0.340)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                        
Net asset value -- End of period                            $11.220           $10.660          $10.700
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                        
Total Return/(1)/                                              8.62%             6.50%           10.50%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                        
                                                                                        
Ratios/Supplemental Data++                                                              
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)                     $80,440           $58,346          $30,535
Ratio of net expenses to average daily net assets/(2)/         1.15%+            0.62%            0.09%+
Ratio of net expenses to average daily net assets                                       
   after custodian fee reduction/(2)/                          1.13%+            0.58%            0.09%+
Ratio of net investment income to average daily net assets     6.30%+            6.65%            6.60%+
</TABLE> 
++  The operating expenses of the Fund and the Portfolio may reflect a reduction
    of the Investment Adviser fee, an allocation of expenses to the Investor
    Adviser or Administrator, or both. Had such actions not been taken, the
    ratios and net investment income per share would have been as follows:

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 


Ratios (As a percentage of average daily net assets):
<S>                                                                             <C>             <C> 
   Expenses/(2)/                                                                 0.99%            1.04%+
   Expenses after custodian fee reduction/(2)/                                   0.95%            1.04%+
   Net investment income                                                         6.28%            5.65%+
Net investment income per share                                                 $0.664          $0.291
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 
+     Annualized.
*     For the period from the start of business, August 7, 1995 to January 31,
      1996.
/(1)/ Total return is calculated assuming a purchase at the net asset value on
      the first day and a sale at the net asset value on the last day of each
      period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed to be
      reinvested at the net asset value on the payable date. Total return is not
      computed on an annualized basis.
/(2)/ Includes the Fund's share of its corresponding Portfolio's allocated
      expenses.


                       See notes to financial statements

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund as of July 31, 1997 
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited) 

1 Significant Accounting Policies
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund (the Fund) is a non-diversified
  series of Eaton Vance Municipals Trust II (the Trust). The Trust is an entity
  of the type commonly known as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered
  under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end
  management investment company. The Fund invests all of its investable assets
  in interests in the High Yield Municipals Portfolio (the Portfolio), a New
  York Trust, having the same investment objective as the Fund. The value of the
  Fund's investment in the Portfolio reflects the Fund's proportionate interest
  in the net assets of the Portfolio (32.6% at July 31, 1997). The performance
  of the Fund is directly affected by the performance of the Portfolio. The
  financial statements of the Portfolio, including the portfolio of investments,
  are included elsewhere in this report and should be read in conjunction with
  the Fund's financial statements. The following is a summary of significant
  accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of
  its financial statements. The policies are in conformity with generally
  accepted accounting principles.

  A Investment Valuations -- Valuations of securities by the Portfolio are
  discussed in Note 1A of the Portfolio's Notes to Financial Statements which
  are included elsewhere in this report.

  B Income -- The Fund's net investment income consists of the Fund's pro rate
  share of the net investment income of the Portfolio, less all actual and
  accrued expenses of the Fund determined in accordance with generally accepted
  accounting principles.

  C Federal Taxes -- The Fund's policy is to comply with the provisions of the
  Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulate investment companies and to
  distribute to shareholders each year all of its taxable and tax-exempt income,
  including any net realized gain on investments, options and financial futures
  transactions. Accordingly, no provision for federal income or excise tax is
  necessary. At January 31, 1997, the Fund, for federal income tax purposes, had
  a capital loss carryover of $7,926, expiring on January 31, 2005, which will
  reduce the Fund's taxable income arising from future net realized gain on
  investments, if any, to the extent permitted by the Internal Revenue Code, and
  thus will reduce the amount of distributions to shareholders which would
  otherwise be necessary to relieve the Fund of any liability for federal income
  or excise tax. Additionally, at January 31, 1997, net capital losses of
  $451,612 attributable to security transactions incurred after October 31,1996,
  are treated as arising on the first day of the Fund's current taxable year.
  Dividends paid by the Fund from the net tax-exempt interest on municipal bonds
  allocated from the Portfolio are not includable by shareholders as gross
  income for federal income tax purposes because the Fund and Portfolio intend
  to meet certain requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to
  regulated investment companies which will enable the Fund to pay
  exempt-interest dividends. The portion of such interest, if any, earned on
  private activity bonds issued after August 7, 1986, may be considered a tax
  preference item to shareholders.

  D Deferred Organization Expenses -- Costs incurred by the Fund in connection
  with its organization are being amortized on the straight-line basis over five
  years.

  E Use of Estimates -- The preparation of the financial statements in
  conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management
  to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets
  and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported
  amounts of income and expense during the reporting period. Actual results
  could differ from those estimates.

  F Expense Reduction -- Investors Bank & Trust Company (IBT) serves as
  custodian to the Fund and the Portfolio. Pursuant to their respective
  custodian agreements, IBT receives a fee reduced by credits which are
  determined based on the average cash balances the Fund and/or the Portfolio
  maintain with IBT. All significant credit balances used to reduce the Fund's
  custodian fees are reported as a reduction of expenses on the Statement of
  Operations.

  G Interim Financial Information -- The interim financial statements relating
  to July 31, 1997 and for the six month period then ended have not been audited
  by independent certified public accountants, but in the opinion of the Fund's
  management, reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring
  adjustments, necessary for the fair presentation of the financial statements.

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund as of July 31, 1997 
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited) CONT'D

2 Distributions to Shareholders
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  The net income of the Fund is determined daily and substantially all of the
  net income so determined is declared as a dividend to shareholders of record
  at the time of declaration. Distributions are paid monthly. Distributions of
  allocated realized capital gains, if any, are made at least annually.
  Shareholders may reinvest capital gain distributions in additional shares of
  the Fund at the net asset value as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions are
  paid in the form of additional shares of the Fund or, at the election of the
  shareholder, in cash. The Fund distinguishes between distributions on a tax
  basis and a financial reporting basis. Generally accepted accounting
  principles require that only distributions in excess of tax basis earnings and
  profits be reported in the financial statements as a return of capital.
  Differences in the recognition or classification of income between the
  financial statements and tax earnings and profits which result in over
  distributions for financial statement purposes only are classified as
  distributions in excess of net investment income or accumulated net realized
  gains. Permanent differences between book and tax accounting relating to
  distributions are reclassified to paid-in capital. The tax treatment of
  distributions for the calendar year will be reported to shareholders prior to
  February 1, 1998 and will be based on tax accounting methods which may differ
  from amounts determined for financial statement purposes.

3 Shares of Beneficial Interest
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of
  full and fraction shares of beneficial interest (without par value).
  Transactions in Fund shares were as follows:

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                            For the six
                                            months ended                      
                                            July 31,1997    For the year ended 
                                            (Unaudited)      January 31, 1997
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
  <S>                                       <C>             <C> 
  Sales                                       2,099,858          3,164,855
  Issued to shareholders electing to                   
    receive payments of distributions in               
    Fund shares                                  66,231            87,469 
  Redemptions                                  (470,173)         (634,228)
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Net increase                                1,695,916         2,618,096
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 


4 Transactions with Affiliates
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Eaton Vance Management (EVM) serves as the administrator of the Fund, but
  receives no compensation. The Portfolio has engaged Boston Management and
  Research (BMR), a subsidiary of EVM, to render investment advisory services.
  (See Note 3 of the Portfolio's Notes to Financial Statements which are
  included elsewhere in this report.) Except as to Trustees of the Fund and the
  Portfolio who are not members of EVM's or BMR's organizations, officers and
  Trustees receive remuneration for their services to the Fund out of such
  investment adviser fee. Eaton Vance Distributors, Inc. (EVD), a subsidiary of
  EVM and the Fund's principal underwriter, received no portion of the sales
  charge on sales of Fund shares for the six months ended July 31, 1997.

  Certain of the officers and Trustees of the Fund and Portfolio are officers
  and directors/trustees of the above organization.

5 Service Plan
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  The Fund adopted a Service Plan designed to meet the service requirements of
  the revised sales charge rule of the National Association of Securities
  Dealers, Inc. The Service Plan provides that the Fund may make service fee
  payments to the Principal Underwriter, Eaton Vance Distributors, Inc., a
  subsidiary of Eaton Vance Management, Authorized Firms or other persons in
  amounts not exceeding 0.25% of the Fund's average daily net assets for any
  fiscal year. The Trustees have implemented the Plan by authorizing the Fund to
  make quarterly service fee payments to the Principal Underwriter and
  Authorized Firms in amounts not expected to exceed 0.25% of the Fund's average
  daily net assets for any fiscal year which is attributable to shares of the
  Fund sold by such persons and remaining outstanding for at least one year.
  Service fee payments are made for personal services and/or the maintenance of
  shareholder accounts. During the six-months ended July 31, 1997 the Fund paid
  or accrued service fee payments under the Plan in the amount of $42,615.

6 Investment Transactions
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Increases and decreases in the Fund's investment in the Portfolio for the
  six-months ended July 31, 1997, aggregated $21,347,700 and $7,565,319,
  respectively.

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS (Unaudited)

                                                               
Tax-Exempt Investments -- 100.0%                                

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                Principal   
                                                Amount      
Security                                        (000 Omitted)       Value
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>              <C>    
Assisted Living -- 9.2%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Health Facilities Authority, Care               
Institute-Mesa Project, 7.625%, 1/1/26            $ 2,500        $ 2,503,150

Chester County, PA, IDA, Senior Life-Choice
of Paoli, (AMT), 8.05%, 1/1/24                      2,000          2,141,660

Chester, PA, IDA, Senior Life-Choice of 
Kimberton, (AMT), 8.50%, 9/1/25                     1,000          1,095,390

Delaware, PA, IDA, Glen Riddle Project, (AMT),      
8.625%, 9/1/25                                      1,600          1,768,992

Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,       
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 1/1/13             1,000            249,900   
                                 
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                      
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 7/1/13             1,000            238,910   
                                                  
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 1/1/14             1,000            228,410   
                                                   
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 7/1/14             1,000            218,360   
                                                  
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove,0.00%, 1/1/15              1,000            208,760   
                                                  
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 7/1/15             1,000            199,580   
                                            
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 1/1/16             1,000            190,800   
                                                 
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 7/1/16             1,000            182,410   
                                                 
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 1/1/17             1,000            174,390   
                                                 
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 7/1/17             1,000            166,720   
                                               
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 1/1/18             1,000            159,390   
                                                   
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 7/1/18             1,000            152,380   
                                               
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 1/1/19             1,000            145,680   
                                                  
Glen Cove Industrial Development Agency, NY,                         
The Regency at Glen Cove, 0.00%, 7/1/19             1,000            139,270   
                                               
Illinois Development Finance Authority, Care                         
Institute, Inc., 7.80%, 6/1/25                      3,740          3,864,430   
                                          
Louisiana Housing Finance Agency, (HCC Assisted                   
Living Group 1) (AMT), 9.00%, 3/1/25                3,545          3,871,175
                          
New Jersey Economic Development Authority,                                 
The Chelsea at East Brunswick Project, (AMT),       
8.25%, 10/1/20                                      3,500          3,629,395   
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 $21,529,152
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cogeneration -- 5.3%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maryland Energy Cogeneration, AES Warrior     
Run Project (AMT), 7.40%, 9/1/19/(1)/             $ 3,500        $ 3,791,200

Palm Beach County, FL, Okeelanta Power L.P.          
(AMT), 6.85%, 2/15/21                               3,500          2,730,000

Palm Beach County, FL, Osceola Power Project        
(AMT), 6.95%, 1/1/22                                2,000          1,350,000

Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing
Authority, Northampton Generating Project 
(AMT) 6.60%, 1/1/19                                 3,500          3,619,455

Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing
Authority, Northampton Generating Project
Subordinated, (AMT),6.875%, 1/1/11                  1,000          1,034,080
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 $12,524,735
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Colleges and Universities -- 0.9%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Hampshire Higher Educational and Health
Facilities Authority, Colby-Sawyer College,
7.50%, 6/1/26                                     $ 2,000        $ 2,155,200
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 $ 2,155,200
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Economic Development Revenue -- 0.6%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pittsfield Township, MI, 8.125%, 8/15/17          $ 1,350        $ 1,318,815
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 $ 1,318,815
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Electric Utilities -- 2.3%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intermountain Power Agency, UT, Variable 
Rate, 7/1/11/(2)/                                 $ 2,500        $ 2,640,625

New York State Energy, Research and 
Development Authority, Long Island 
Lighting Co. (AMT), 7.15%, 9/1/19                   2,500          2,711,825
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 $ 5,352,450
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Escrowed/Prerefunded -- 7.3%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colorado Health Facilities Authority,        
Liberty Heights Project, 0.00%, 7/15/20           $ 5,575        $ 1,615,245

Colorado Health Facilities Authority,        
Liberty Heights Project, 0.00%, 7/15/24            17,000          3,969,160  
                    
Colorado Health Facilities Authority,                                  
Liberty Heights Project, 0.00%, 7/15/22            13,445          3,496,910  
                        
Cuyahoga County, OH, Judson Retirement                                      
Community, 8.875%, 11/15/19                         1,500          1,694,970  
                      
Dawson Ridge Metropolitan District #1, Douglas                     
County, CO, (AMT), 0.00%, 10/1/22                  10,000          2,496,900  
                   
Dawson Ridge, Metropolitan District #1,                              
Douglas County, CO, 0.00%, 10/1/22                  3,500            873,915  
</TABLE> 

                                                      
                       See notes to financial statements
                            

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997 
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS (Unaudited) CONT'D

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                Principal   
                                                Amount      
Security                                        (000 Omitted)       Value
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>             <C>   
Escrowed / Prerefunded (continued)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Illinois Development Finance Authority,            
Regency Park Project, 0.00%, 7/15/25              $ 3,295       $   709,348  
                          
Montgomery County, PA, United Hospitals, 
8.375%, 11/1/11                                     1,000         1,111,460 
                           
Montgomery County, PA, United Hospitals, 
7.50%, 11/1/15                                      1,000         1,075,070  
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $17,042,978
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hospitals -- 8.6%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hidalgo County, TX, Health Services Corp.,        
Mission Hospital, Inc., 6.875%, 8/15/26(1)        $ 2,500       $ 2,672,575

Louisiana PFA, General Health Systems Project,      
6.80%, 11/1/16/(1)/                                 3,000         3,252,780  
                         
Massachusetts HEFA, Milford-Whitinsville                                    
Hospital, 7.75%, 7/15/17                            3,000         3,284,820  
                          
Philadelphia, PA, (Graduate Health System),   
6.625%, 7/1/21                                      2,205         2,294,126

Prince George's, MD, Greater Southeast             
Healthcare System, 6.375%, 1/1/23/(1)/              2,650         2,715,614

San Bernadino, CA, San Bernadino Community          
Hospital, 7.875%, 12/1/08                           1,000         1,046,260

San Bernadino, CA, San Bernadino Community          
Hospital, 7.875%, 12/1/19                           1,325         1,386,295

Scranton-Lackawanna, PA, Health and Welfare
Authority, Moses Taylor Hospital,
8.50%, 7/1/20/(1)/                                  1,500         1,754,340

Wells County, IN, Caylor-Nickel Medical       
Center, 8.75%, 4/15/12                              1,500         1,751,010
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $20,157,820
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Housing -- 11.2%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, Single    
Family Housing, (AMT),7.65%, 12/1/25              $ 4,735       $ 5,333,314

Cuyahoga County, OH, Rolling Hills Apartment      
Project, 8.00%, 1/1/28                              2,450         2,449,731  
                                                      
Florence, KY Housing Facilities,                                            
7.625%, 5/1/27                                      2,430         2,464,385  
                                                      
Lucas County, OH, County Creek Project (AMT),                                   
8.00%, 7/1/26                                       3,780         3,733,468  
                                                      
Maricopa County, AZ, IDA, Place Five and The            
Greenery Projects, 6.625%, 1/1/27                   2,500         2,625,525
                                                             
Maricopa County, AZ, IDA, Place Five and The            
Greenery Projects, 8.625%, 1/1/11                   1,725         1,757,620
                                                             
Santa Fe, NM, 1st Interstate Plaza Project,    
8.00%, 7/1/13                                       3,388         3,650,738    
                                                        
Santa Fe, NM, Crow Hobbs Project,                                         
8.50%, 9/1/16                                       3,300         3,637,260    
                                                        
Texas Department of Housing and Community
Affairs, NHP Foundation-Asmara Project,
6.40%, 1/1/27                                     $   550       $   575,372
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $26,227,413
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Industrial Development Revenue / Pollution
Control Revenue -- 26.8%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ABIA Development Corp., Austin Cargoport
Development, L.L.C. Project (AMT),          
9.25%, 10/1/21                                    $ 2,815       $ 3,102,102

Camden County, NJ, Holt Hauling and 
Warehousing System, Inc. Project (AMT), 
9.875%, 1/1/21                                      2,000         2,350,120

Carbon County, UT, (Laidlaw Environmental       
Services Inc.), 7.45%, 7/1/17                       3,900         4,036,110

Florence County, SC, Stone Container Company,     
7.375%, 2/1/07                                      1,895         2,014,631    
                              
Hancock County, KY, Southwire Co.,  (AMT),                                    
7.75%, 7/1/26                                       2,700         2,868,021    
                           
Kansas City, MO, IDA, AFCO Cargo (AMT),
8.50%, 1/1/17                                       4,095         4,588,201    
                            
Kimball, NE, Economic Development Authority,      
Clean Harbors Inc. (AMT), 10.75%, 9/1/26            3,000         3,256,260

Michigan Strategic Fund, (S.D. Warren Co.) (AMT),      
7.375%, 1/15/22                                     3,500         3,761,940   
                          
Mobile, AL, Mobile Energy Project,                  
6.95%, 1/1/20                                       1,000         1,097,120   
                          
Morgantown, KY, IMCO Recyclying Inc.,                                        
7.45%, 5/1/22                                       3,400         3,538,618   
                          
New Albany, IN, IDA, K-Mart Co.,                                             
7.40%, 6/1/06                                       1,095         1,176,895   
                         
New Hampshire Business Finance Authority,
Crown Paper Co. (AMT), 7.875%, 7/1/26               2,750         3,020,930

New Hampshire, Public Service Co. of NH, 
7.65%, 5/1/21                                       3,420         3,577,081     
                            
New Jersey EDA, (777 Pattison Ave., Inc.),                                     
(AMT), 8.95%, 12/15/18                                500           552,530     

New Jersey EDA, Holt Hauling and Warehousing       
System, Inc., 7.90%, 3/1/27                         4,000         4,320,200   
                           
Ohio Solid Waste Revenue, Republic Engineered       
Steels Inc., (AMT), 9.00%, 6/1/21                   4,000         4,159,080   
                           
Osceola County, IDA, Community Pooled Loan-93,  
7.75%, 7/1/17                                       2,000         2,112,920

Perry County, KY, TJ International Inc.,          
6.55%, 4/15/27                                      2,000         2,119,840

Philadelphia, PA, (Refrigerated Enterprises)
(AMT), 9.05%, 12/1/19                                 500           554,455
</TABLE> 


                       See notes to financial statements

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997 
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS (Unaudited) CONT'D

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                Principal   
                                                Amount      
Security                                        (000 Omitted)       Value
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>             <C>       
Industrial Development Revenue / Pollution
Control Revenue (continued)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Riverdale Village, IL, ACME Metals, Inc. 
Project (AMT), 7.95%, 4/1/25                      $ 3,345       $ 3,589,921 
                          
Robbins, IL, Resource Recovery,                                              
8.375%, 10/15/16                                    3,500         3,746,925  
                        
Skowhegan, ME, S. D. Warren Co.,                                            
6.65%, 10/15/15                                     3,000         3,084,270  
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $62,628,170
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Insured-Water and Sewer -- 1.3%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Detroit, MI, Sewer Revenue, (FGIC), Variable  
Rate, 7/1/23(2)                                   $ 3,000       $ 3,165,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $ 3,165,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lease Revenue / Certificates of Participation -- 1.9%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hardeman County, TN, Correctional Facilities      
Corp., 7.75%, 8/1/17                              $ 4,000       $ 4,373,120
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $ 4,373,120
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lease Revenue / Certificates of Participation -- 1.1%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Los Angeles, CA, COP, Disney Parking Project,     
0.00%, 9/1/19                                     $ 9,190       $ 2,517,601
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $ 2,517,601
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Life Care -- 10.7%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delaware County, PA, White Horse Village,        
7.30%, 7/1/14                                     $ 3,500       $ 3,694,635

Kansas City, MO, IDA, Kingswood United             
Methodist Manor, 9.00%, 11/15/13                    4,000         4,429,399

Saint Tammany, LA, Public Finance, Christwood           
Project, 9.00%, 11/15/25                            3,955         4,335,708     
                           
Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 8.50%, 12/1/36         2,382         2,526,587     
                               
Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 8.81%, 12/1/36         2,000         2,197,200     
                            
Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 7.00%, 12/1/36         1,330         1,400,796     
                           
Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 8.70%, 12/1/36         1,000         1,088,640     
                            
Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 7.00%, 12/1/36         1,100         1,100,000     
                             
Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 8.875%, 12/1/36          600           600,000     

Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 6.75%, 12/1/36         2,580         2,663,669     

Tax Exempt Securities Trust, 8.375%, 12/31/36         860           914,722     
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $24,951,356
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Miscellaneous -- 1.6%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Atlanta, GA, Downtown Development Authority,
Central Atlanta  Hospitality Childcare,
Inc., 8.00%, 1/1/26                               $ 3,765       $ 3,846,211
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $ 3,846,211
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nursing Homes -- 6.5%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greene County, OH, IDA, Fairview Extended Care,      
10.125%, 1/1/11                                   $ 1,220       $ 1,446,676 
                     
Kansas City, MO, IDA, Beverly Enterprises,                                   
8.00%, 12/1/02                                      2,175         2,315,048  
                       
Massachusetts HEFA, Fairview Extended Care,                                
10.125%, 1/1/11                                     1,790         2,028,285  
                    
Massachusetts IFA, AGE, Institute of                 
Massachusetts, 8.05%, 11/1/25                       2,500         2,642,950

Mississippi Business Finance Corp., Magnolia      
Healthcare, 7.99%, 7/1/25                           1,200         1,258,164 
                                                       
Westmoreland, PA, (HIghland Health Systems,                              
Inc.), 9.25%, 6/1/22                                3,500         3,922,590 
                                                       
Wilkins Area, PA, IDA, (Fairview Extended Care),                              
10.25%, 1/1/21                                      1,250         1,487,100 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $15,100,813
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Special Tax Revenue -- 1.7%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cottonwood Water & Sanitation District,        
General Obligation, 7.75%, 12/1/20                $ 3,800       $ 3,944,552
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $ 3,944,552
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Transportation -- 2.0%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eagle County, CO, Airport Terminal Project,
7.50%, 5/1/21                                     $   500       $   530,760   
                          
San Joaquin Hills, CA, Toll Road Revenue 
Bonds, 0.00%, 1/1/25                               10,000         2,139,000   

San Joaquin Hills, CA, Toll Road Revenue 
Bonds, 0.00%, 1/1/26                               10,000         2,022,000   
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $ 4,691,760
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 


                       See notes to financial statements

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS (Unaudited) CONT'D

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                Principal   
                                                Amount      
Security                                        (000 Omitted)       Value
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>             <C>     
Utilities -- 1.0% 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Southern California Public Power Authority,     
Variable Rate, 7/1/12/(2)/                        $ 2,000       $  2,257,500
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $  2,257,500
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Total Tax-Exempt Investments -- 100%
   (identified cost $216,107,640)                               $233,784,646
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 
AMT - Interest earned from these securities may be considered a tax preference
  item for purpose of the Federal Alternative Minimum Tax.

At July 31, 1997, the concentration of the Portfolio's investments in various
states determined as a percentage of total investments is as follows:

<TABLE> 
<S>                                                                 <C> 
Pennsylvania                                                        10%
Others, representing less than 10% individually                     90%
</TABLE> 

/(1)/ Security (or a portion thereof) has been segregated to cover margin
      requirements on open financial futures contracts.
/(2)/ Security has been issued as an inverse floater bond.


                       See notes to financial statements

                                       11
<PAGE>

High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Statement of Assets and Liabilities                             

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

As of July 31, 1997
Assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                               <C> 
Investments, at value (Note 1A)
   (identified cost, $216,107,640)                                $233,784,646
Cash                                                                 2,519,299
Interest receivable                                                  3,378,120
Deferred organization expenses (Note 1D)                                 8,526
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total assets                                                      $239,690,591
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Liabilities
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Payable for investments purchased                                 $    856,681
Payable for daily variation margin on open  
   financial futures contracts (Note 1E)                                37,500
Payable to affiliate - Trustees' fees (Note 2)                             956
Accrued expenses                                                        22,162
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities                                                 $    917,299
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Assets applicable to investors' interest in Portfolio         $238,773,292
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Sources of Net Assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net proceeds from capital contributions and withdrawals           $221,375,604
Net unrealized appreciation of investments (computed on 
   the basis of identified cost)                                    17,397,688
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                                             $238,773,292
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Statement of Operations


For the Six Months Ended
July 31, 1997
Investment Income (Note 1B)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest income                                                   $  7,583,522
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total income                                                      $  7,583,522
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Expenses
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment adviser fee (Note 2)                                   $    621,102
Compensation of Trustees not members of the Investment 
   Adviser's organization (Note 2)                                       5,940
Custodian fee (Note 1H)                                                 55,962
Legal and accounting services                                           25,133
Amortization of organization expenses (Note 1D)                            726
Miscellaneous                                                           32,357
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total expenses                                                    $    741,220
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deduct --
   Reduction of custodian fee (1H)                                $     14,928
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total expense reductions                                          $     14,928
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net expenses                                                      $    726,292
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net investment income                                             $  6,857,230
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Realized and Unrealized 
Gain (Loss) on Investments
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized gain (loss) --
   Investment transactions (identified cost basis)                $     94,218
   Financial futures contracts                                      (1,212,846)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized loss on investments                                  $ (1,118,628)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) --
   Investments (identified cost basis)                            $ 12,778,228
   Financial futures contracts                                          63,426
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)              $ 12,841,654
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net realized and unrealized gain on investments                   $ 11,723,026
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations              $ 18,580,256
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

                       See notes to financial statements

                                      12
<PAGE>

High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONT'D
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                            Six Months Ended               
Increase (Decrease)                         July 31, 1997      Year Ended     
in Net Assets                               (Unaudited)        January 31, 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>                <C> 
From operations --
   Net investment income                       $6,857,230          $8,918,825
   Net realized loss on investments            (1,118,628)         (1,259,590)
   Change in unrealized appreciation 
     (depreciation)                            12,841,654           2,904,425
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase in net assets from operations    $18,580,256         $10,563,660
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capital transactions --
   Contributions                              $60,248,452         $118,977,124
   Withdrawals                                (20,755,875)         (20,917,792)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase in net assets from      
   capital transactions                       $39,492,577          $98,059,332
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net increase in net assets                    $58,072,833         $108,622,992
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Net Assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At beginning of period                       $180,700,459          $72,077,467
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At end of period                             $238,773,292         $180,700,459
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 


                       See notes to financial statements

                                      13
<PAGE>

High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONT'D
Supplementary Data

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                      Six Months Ended         Year Ended January 31,
                                                      July 31, 1997          ---------------------------
                                                      (Unaudited)             1997                1996*
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                   <C>                  <C>                  <C>   
Ratios to average daily net assets ++
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses                                                   0.73%+              0.34%               0.06%+ 
Expenses after custodian fee reduction                     0.71%+              0.30%               0.06%+
Net investment income                                      6.73%+              6.96%               6.95%+
Portfolio Turnover                                            4%                 41%                 32%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted)               $238,773            $180,700             $72,077
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 
++  The operating expenses of the Portfolio may reflect a reduction of the
    Investment Adviser fee. Had such action not been taken, the ratios would
    have been as follows:
<TABLE> 
<S>                                                                            <C>                 <C> 
Expenses                                                                       0.71%               0.71%+
Expenses after custodian fee reduction                                         0.67%               0.71%+
Net investment income                                                          6.59%               6.30%+
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 
+   Annualized.
*   For the period from the start of business, August 7, 1995 to January 31,
    1996.



                       See notes to financial statements

                                      14
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997 
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)


1 Significant Accounting Policies
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  High Yield Municipals Portfolio (the Portfolio) is registered under the
  Investment Company Act of 1940, as a non-diversified open-end management
  investment company. The Portfolio, which was organized as a trust under the
  laws of the State of New York on May 1, 1995, seeks to provide high current
  income exempt from regular federal income tax. The Declaration of Trust
  permits the Trustees to issue interests in the Portfolio. The following is a
  summary of significant accounting policies of the Portfolio. The policies are
  in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

  A Investment Valuation -- Municipal bonds are normally valued on the basis of
  valuations furnished by a pricing service. Taxable obligations, if any, for
  which price quotations are readily available are normally valued at the mean
  between latest bid and asked prices. Futures contracts listed on commodity
  exchanges are valued at closing settlement prices. Short-term obligations
  maturing in sixty days or less, are valued at amortized cost, which
  approximates value. Investments for which valuations or market quotations are
  unavailable are valued at fair value using methods determined in good faith by
  or at the direction of the Trustees.

  B Income -- Interest income is determined on the basis of interest accrued,
  adjusted for amortization of premium or discount when required for federal
  income tax purposes.

  C Income Taxes -- The Portfolio is treated as a partnership for federal tax
  purposes. No provision is made by the Portfolio for federal or state taxes on
  any taxable income of the Portfolio because each investor in the Portfolio is
  ultimately responsible for the payment of any taxes. Since some of the
  Portfolio's investors are regulated investment companies that invest all or
  substantially all of their assets in the Portfolio, the Portfolio normally
  must satisfy the applicable source of the income and diversification
  requirements (under the Internal Revenue Code) in order for its investors to
  satisfy them. The Portfolio will allocate at least annually among its
  investors each investor's distributive share of the Portfolio's net taxable
  (if any) and tax-exempt investment income, net realized capital gains, and any
  other items of income, gain, loss, deduction or credit. Interest income
  received by the Portfolio on investments in municipal bonds, which is
  excludable from gross income under the Internal Revenue Code, will retain its
  status as income exempt from Federal income tax when allocated to the
  Portfolio's investors. The portion of such interest, if any, earned on private
  activity bonds issued after August 7, 1986 may be considered a tax preference
  item for investors.

  D Deferred Organization Expenses -- Costs incurred by the Portfolio in
  connection with its organization are being amortized on the straight-line
  basis over five years.

  E Financial Futures Contracts -- Upon the entering of a financial futures
  contract, the Portfolio is required to deposit ("initial margin") either in
  cash or securities an amount equal to a certain percentage of the purchase
  price indicated in the financial futures contract. Subsequent payments are
  made or received by the Portfolio ("margin maintenance") each day, dependent
  on the daily fluctuations in the value of the underlying security, and are
  recorded for book purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. The
  Portfolio's investment in financial futures contracts is designed only to
  hedge against anticipated futures changes in interest rates. Should interest
  rates move unexpectedly, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated
  benefits of the financial futures contracts and may realize a loss.

  F Legal Fees -- Legal fees and other related expenses incurred as part of
  negotiations of the terms and requirements of capital infusions, or that are
  expected to result in the restructuring of or a plan of reorganization for an
  investment are recorded as realized losses. Ongoing expenditures to protect or
  enhance an investment are treated as operating expenses.

  G When-issued and Delayed Delivery Transactions -- The Portfolio may engage in
  when-issued and delayed delivery transactions. The Portfolio records
  when-issued securities on trade date and maintains security positions such
  that sufficient liquid assets will be available to make payments for the
  securities purchased. Securities purchased on when-issued or delayed delivery
  basis are marked to market daily and begin accruing interest on settlement
  date.

  H Expense Reduction -- Investors Bank & Trust Company (IBT) serves as
  custodian of the Portfolio. Pursuant to the custodian agreement, IBT receives
  a fee reduced by credits which are determined based on the average daily cash
  balances the Portfolio maintains with IBT. All significant credit balances
  used to reduce the Portfolio's custodian fees are reported as a reduction of
  expenses in the Statement of Operations.

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Municipals Portfolio as of July 31, 1997 
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited) CONT'D


  I Use of Estimates -- The preparation of the financial statements in
  conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management
  to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets
  and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported
  amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period. Actual results
  could differ from those estimates.

  J Other -- Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade date basis.

  K Interim Financial Information -- The interim financial statements relating
  to July 31, 1997 and for the six months then ended have not been audited by
  independent certified public accountants, but in the opinion of the
  Portfolio's management reflect all adjustments consisting only of normal
  recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair presentation of the financial
  statements.

2 Investment Adviser Fee and Other Transactions with Affiliates
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  The investment adviser fee is earned by Boston Management and Research (BMR),
  a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eaton Vance Management (EVM), as compensation for
  management and investment advisory services rendered to the Portfolio. The fee
  is based upon a percentage of average daily net assets plus a percentage of
  gross income (i.e. income other than gains from the sales of securities). For
  the six months ended July 31, 1997, the fee was equivalent to 0.60%
  (annualized) of the Portfolio's average net assets for such period and
  amounted to $621,102. Except as to Trustees of the Portfolio who are not
  members of EVM's or BMR's organization, officers and Trustees receive
  remuneration for their services to the Portfolio out of such investment
  adviser fee. Certain of the officers and Trustees of the Portfolio are
  officers and directors/trustees of the above organizations. Trustees of the
  Portfolio that are not affiliated with the Investment Adviser may elect to
  defer receipt of all or a percentage of their annual fees in accordance with
  the terms of the Trustees Deferred Compensation Plan. For the period ended
  July 31, 1997, no significant amounts have been deferred.

3 Investments
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Purchases and sales of investments, other than U.S. Government securities and
  short-term obligations, aggregated $51,038,720 and $8,436,955, respectively,
  for the six months ended July 31, 1997.

4 Federal Income Tax Basis of Investments
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  The cost and unrealized appreciation/depreciation in value of the investments
  owned at July 31, 1997, as computed on a federal income tax basis, were as
  follows:

<TABLE> 
  <S>                                                      <C> 
  Aggregate cost                                           $216,107,640
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Gross unrealized appreciation                            $ 18,611,032
  Gross unrealized depreciation                                 934,026
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Net unrealized appreciation                              $ 17,677,006
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

5 Line of Credit
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  The Portfolio participates with other portfolios and funds managed by BMR and
  EVM and its affiliates in a $120 million unsecured line of credit agreement
  with a group of banks. Borrowings will be made by the Portfolio solely to
  facilitate the handling of unusual and/or unanticipated short-term cash
  requirements. Interest is charged to each participating portfolio or fund
  based on its borrowings at the bank's base rate or at an amount above either
  the bank's adjusted certificate of deposit rate, Eurodollar rate, or a federal
  funds effective rate. In addition, a fee computed at an annual rate of 0.15%
  on the daily unused portion of the line of credit is allocated among the
  participating portfolios and funds at the end of each quarter. The Portfolio
  did not have any significant borrowings or allocated fees during the
  six-months ended July 31, 1997.

6 Financial Instruments
  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  The Portfolio regularly trades in financial instruments with off-balance sheet
  risk in the normal course of its investing activities to assist in managing
  exposure to various market risks. These financial instruments include futures
  contracts and may involve, to a varying degree, elements of risk in excess of
  the amounts recognized for financial statement purposes. The notional or
  contractual amounts of these instruments represent the investment the
  Portfolio has in particular classes of financial instruments and do not
  necessarily represent the amounts potentially subject to risk. The measurement
  of the risks associated with these instruments is meaningful only when all
  related and offsetting transactions are considered. A summary of obligations
  under these financial instruments at July 31, 1997 is as follows:

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

    Futures
    Contracts                                                    Net Unrealized
    Expiration                                                   Appreciation
    Date          Contracts                   Position           (Depreciation)
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    <S>           <C>                         <C>                <C>  
    9/97          100 U.S. Treasury Bonds     Short                  $(279,318)
</TABLE> 

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund as of July 31, 1997
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT


EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund

<TABLE> 
<S>                                                 <C> 
Officers                                            Independent Trustees                                                      
Thomas J. Fetter                                    Donald R. Dwight                                                      
President                                           President, Dwight Partners, Inc.                                      
                                                    Chairman, Newspapers of New England, Inc.                             
James B. Hawkes                                                                                                           
Vice President and Trustee                          Samuel L. Hayes, III                                                  
                                                    Jacob H. Schiff Professor of Investment                               
Robert B. MacIntosh, CFA                            Banking, Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration
Vice President                                                                                                            
                                                    Norton H. Reamer                                                      
James L. O'Connor                                   President and Director, United Asset                                  
Treasurer                                           Management Corporation                                                
                                                                                                                          
Alan R. Dynner                                      John L. Thorndike                                                     
Secretary                                           Formerly Director, Fiduciary Company Incorporated                     
                                                                                                                          
                                                    Jack L. Treynor                                                       
                                                    Investment Adviser and Consultant                                      
</TABLE> 

High Yield Municipals Portfolio

<TABLE> 
<S>                                                 <C> 
Officers                                            Independent Trustees                                                 
Thomas J. Fetter                                    Donald R. Dwight                                                     
President                                           President, Dwight Partners, Inc.                                     
                                                    Chairman, Newspapers of New England, Inc.                            
James B. Hawkes                                                                                                          
Vice President and Trustee                          Samuel L. Hayes, III                                                 
                                                    Jacob H. Schiff Professor of Investment                              
Thomas Metzold                                      Banking, Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration
Vice President and                                                                                                       
Portfolio Manager                                   Norton H. Reamer                                                     
                                                    President and Director, United Asset                                 
James L. O'Connor                                   Management Corporation                                               
Treasurer                                                                                                                
                                                    John L. Thorndike                                                    
Alan R. Dynner                                      Formerly Director, Fiduciary Company Incorporated                    
Secretary                                                                                                                
                                                    Jack L. Treynor                                                      
                                                    Investment Adviser and Consultant                                     
</TABLE> 

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
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<PAGE>
 
                      This Page Intentionally Left Blank
<PAGE>
 
Investment Advisor of
High Yield Municipals Portfolio
Boston Management and Research
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110


Administrator of
EV Traditional High Yield Municipals Fund
Eaton Vance Management
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110


Principal Underwriter
Eaton Vance Distributors, Inc.
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 482-8260


Custodian
Investors Bank & Trust Company
200 Clarendon Street, 16th Floor
Boston, MA 02116


Transfer Agent
First Data Investor Services Group
Attention:  Eaton Vance Funds
P.O. Box 5123
Westborough, MA 01581-5123





EV Traditional High Yield Fund
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   This report must be preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus which
contains more complete information on the Fund, including its distribution plan,
sales charges and expenses. Please read the prospectus carefully before you
invest or send money.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    T-HYSRC-9/97




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