In this episode, we speak to Thomas McMahon, Head of Investment Companies Research at Kepler Trust Intelligence, about the opportunity for investors in UK small-caps and BlackRock Smaller Companies in particular. We discuss the outlook for the sector, including recent performance and the economic backdrop, alongside BRSC’s investment strategy, recent merger and income credentials. 00:00 Introduction 00:25 Why invest in UK small-caps 02:48 Sector performance 04:00 Rationale for merger 04:50 Changes to fees and tender offers 05:37 Investment strategy 06:15 Portfolio construction 06:55 Risk management 07:45 Income credentials 08:33 Outlook for UK small-caps 09:20 Why invest in BRSC 10:17 Further information 10:38 Risk warning Our latest note on BRSC - https://www.trustintelligence.co.uk/investor/articles?fund_id=127 BRSC website - https://www.blackrock.com/uk/solutions/investment-trusts/our-range/blackrock-smaller-companies-investment-trust/trust-information Please note that this podcast was recorded on 1 July 2026.