GDL FUND 8-K

What Happened
GDL FUND (GDL) filed an 8-K on May 7, 2026, reporting that Mario J. Gabelli — Trustee, Chairman and Chief Investment Officer of the Fund and Chairman/Co‑CEO and Chief Investment Officer – Value Portfolios of GAMCO — experienced a medical incident on March 19, 2026 and was admitted to the hospital for observation and testing on March 23, 2026. His condition is improving, but no timeline for his return has been given. On March 22, 2026 GAMCO (the parent of the Fund’s adviser, Gabelli Funds, LLC) implemented its long‑standing succession plan and named Christopher J. Marangi President; day‑to‑day company operations will be led by co‑CEO Douglas R. Jamieson and Mr. Marangi. Willis Brucker will continue to handle the Fund’s day‑to‑day portfolio management during Mr. Gabelli’s absence.

Key Details

• Filing: Form 8‑K filed May 7, 2026 reporting the events above.
• Medical timeline: incident March 19, 2026; hospital admission March 23, 2026; condition improving, return date unknown.
• Succession action: GAMCO implemented its succession plan on March 22, 2026 and named Christopher J. Marangi President.
• Fund management: Willis Brucker remains responsible for the Fund’s daily portfolio management.

Why It Matters
This notice informs investors that the founder and long‑time investment leader, Mario Gabelli, is temporarily unavailable and GAMCO has formally activated its succession plan. Operational continuity is addressed: company leadership responsibilities have been shifted to existing executives and the Fund’s portfolio management remains assigned to an existing portfolio manager, minimizing immediate disruption risk. Investors should monitor future filings or updates for any changes to leadership, management responsibilities, or material impacts on the Fund’s strategy or performance.