Company at a Glance
 
Tortoise North American Energy Corp. (NYSE: TYN) is a non-diversified closed-end investment company focused primarily on investing in equity securities of companies in the energy sector with their primary operations in North America, including oil and gas exploitation, energy infrastructure and energy shipping companies. Our investments are primarily in Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs) and their affiliates, but may also include Canadian royalty and income trusts, common stock, debt and other securities issued by energy companies that are not MLPs.
 
Investment Goals: Yield, Growth and Quality
 
TYN seeks a high level of total return with an emphasis on current distributions paid to stockholders.
 
In seeking to achieve yield, we target distributions to our stockholders that are roughly equal to the underlying yield on a direct investment in MLPs. In order to accomplish this, we maintain our strategy of investing primarily in companies in the energy sector with attractive current yields and growth potential.
 
We seek to achieve distribution growth as revenues of our underlying companies grow with the economy, with the population and through rate increases. This revenue growth generally leads to increased operating profits, and when combined with internal expansion projects and acquisitions, is expected to provide attractive growth in distributions to us.
 
TYN seeks to achieve quality by investing in companies operating energy infrastructure assets that are critical to the North American economy. Often these assets would be difficult to replicate. We also back experienced management teams with successful track records. By investing in TYN, our stockholders have access to a portfolio that is diversified through geographic regions and across product lines, including natural gas, natural gas liquids, crude oil and refined products.
 
About U.S. Energy Infrastructure Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs)
 
MLPs are limited partnerships whose units trade on public exchanges such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the NYSE Alternext US and the NASDAQ. Buying MLP units makes an investor a limited partner in the MLP. There are currently more than 80 MLPs in the market, mostly in industries related to energy and natural resources. We invest primarily in MLPs in the energy infrastructure sector. Energy infrastructure MLPs are engaged in the transportation, storage and processing of crude oil, natural gas and refined products from production points to the end users.
 
TYN Investment Features
 
We provide stockholders an alternative to investing directly in MLPs and their affiliates. We offer investors the opportunity to receive an attractive distribution return with a historically low return correlation to returns on stocks and bonds.
 
Additional features include:
  • One Form 1099 per stockholder at the end of the year, multiple K-1s and multiple state filings for individual partnership investments;
     
  • A professional management team, with more than 130 years combined investment experience;
     
  • The ability to access investment grade credit markets to enhance stockholder return; and
     
  • Access to direct placements and other investments not available through the public market.



 
 

 





September 28, 2012

Dear Fellow Stockholders,

Following the market retreat earlier this summer, equities gained momentum again during our third fiscal quarter ended Aug. 31, 2012, with a myriad of ongoing and emerging economic events continuing to dominate the headlines.

In contrast to the shift earlier this year into riskier assets, this quarter, more defensive, higher-yielding sectors, such as MLPs, outperformed the broader market on a relative basis as soft economic growth, election uncertainty and a potential fiscal cliff contributed to market ambiguity.

Master Limited Partnership Sector Review

The Tortoise MLP Index ® posted a total return of 10.7 percent and 12.6 percent for the three months and nine months ended Aug. 31, 2012, respectively. In contrast, the S&P 500 ® posted a total return of 7.9 percent and 14.7 percent for the same periods. Although MLPs have outperformed broader equities during only three of the first nine months of our fiscal year, we believe they continue to have solid business fundamentals anchored in an attractive yield. While midstream MLPs have outperformed upstream MLPs year-to-date, upstream MLPs outperformed midstream MLPs during our third fiscal quarter as the price of both crude oil and natural gas increased more than 11 percent and 16 percent, respectively.

While all eyes will be on Washington this coming November, the North American oil and gas boom was praised at both party conventions this summer as a contributor to the economy, a job creator and an aid to national security. U.S. crude oil production is on the rise, reaching approximately 6 million barrels per day as technological advancements are now allowing access to unconventional oil resources, such as the Eagle Ford shale in Texas, the Bakken shale in North Dakota and the Permian Basin in West Texas. This continues to drive significant infrastructure growth needs across the country to take energy from new areas of expanding supply to growing areas of demand. One example is in the nation’s fastest growing oil field, the Bakken, in which proposed crude oil pipelines would have the capacity to move over 300,000 barrels of crude oil daily from North Dakota to Cushing, Okla.

In addition to internal growth projects, more than $32 billion in MLP acquisitions have been announced thus far in 2012. Capital markets remain supportive, with the sector on pace for another significant year with MLP equity issuance in excess of $15 billion year-to-date.

Fund Performance Review

Our total assets increased from $202.7 million on May 31, 2012, to $224.0 million as of our third fiscal quarter end, resulting primarily from market appreciation of our investments. Our asset performance during the quarter was positively impacted by refined products and crude oil pipeline MLPs, which delivered higher distribution growth from higher throughput volumes. E&P MLPs also drove performance stemming from the surge in North American shale production. Additionally, TYN completed a $2 million direct placement during the fiscal quarter in DCP Midstream Partners, LP, which used the proceeds to acquire natural gas liquids pipelines and natural gas gathering assets.

Our market-based total return was 8.3 percent and 11.9 percent (both including the reinvestment of distributions) for the three months and nine months ended Aug. 31, 2012, respectively. Our NAV-based total return was 9.1 percent and 8.0 percent (both including the reinvestment of distributions) for the same periods. The difference between the market value total return as compared to the NAV total return reflects the change in the market’s premium or discount over the time period.

We paid a distribution of $0.39 per common share ($1.56 annualized) to our stockholders on Sept. 4, 2012, an increase of 0.6 percent from our prior quarterly distribution. This distribution represented an annualized yield of 6.1 percent based on our fiscal quarter closing price of $25.69. Our distribution coverage (distributable cash flow divided by distributions) for the third fiscal quarter was 109.2 percent. For tax purposes, we currently expect 80 to 100 percent of TYN’s 2012 distributions to be characterized as qualified dividend income, or QDI, with the remainder, if any, characterized as a return of capital. A final determination of the characterization will be made in January 2013.

We ended the third fiscal quarter with leverage at 13.8 percent of total assets, which, including the impact of interest rate swaps, had a weighted average maturity of 5.0 years, a weighted average cost of 2.32 percent, and over 80 percent at fixed rates.

Additional information about our financial performance is available in the Key Financial Data and Management’s Discussion of this report.

Conclusion

As 2012 enters its final stretch, there are a number of major questions looming on the horizon. We believe MLPs will continue to be resilient over the long-term, regardless of the global economic environment, domestic fiscal setting or geopolitical landscape.

Sincerely,
The Managing Directors
Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C.
The adviser to Tortoise North American Energy Corp.

H. Kevin Birzer Zachary A. Hamel Kenneth P. Malvey
     
 
Terry Matlack David J. Schulte  

(Unaudited)

2012 3rd Quarter Report       1





Key Financial Data (Supplemental Unaudited Information)
(dollar amounts in thousands unless otherwise indicated)


The information presented below regarding Distributable Cash Flow and Selected Financial Information is supplemental non-GAAP financial information, which we believe is meaningful to understanding our operating performance. The Distributable Cash Flow Ratios include the functional equivalent of EBITDA for non-investment companies, and we believe they are an important supplemental measure of performance and promote comparisons from period-to-period. This information is supplemental, is not inclusive of required financial disclosures (e.g. Total Expense Ratio), and should be read in conjunction with our full financial statements.
 
2011 2012
    Q3 (1)    Q4 (1)    Q1 (1)    Q2 (1)    Q3 (1)
Total Income from Investments
     Distributions received from master
          limited partnerships $ 2,876 $ 2,946 $ 3,069 $ 3,086 $ 3,221
     Dividends paid in stock 339 272 201 211 218
     Dividends from common stock 222 137 150 151 87
     Other income 286
          Total from investments 3,437 3,641 3,420 3,448 3,526
Operating Expenses Before
     Leverage Costs and Current Taxes
     Advisory fees, net of expense
          reimbursement 483 472 535 549 535
     Other operating expenses 126 114 134 129 119
  609 586 669 678 654
     Distributable cash flow before
          leverage costs and current taxes 2,828 3,055 2,751 2,770 2,872
     Leverage costs (2) 117 180 184 189 190
     Current income tax expense 9 9
           Distributable Cash Flow (3) $ 2,702 $ 2,866 $ 2,567 $ 2,581 $ 2,682
 
As a percent of average total assets (4)
     Total from investments 6.62 % 7.19 % 6.26 % 6.22 % 6.51 %
     Operating expenses before
          leverage costs and current taxes 1.17 % 1.16 % 1.22 % 1.22 % 1.21 %
     Distributable cash flow before
          leverage costs and current taxes 5.45 % 6.03 % 5.04 % 5.00 % 5.30 %
As a percent of average net assets (4)
     Total from investments 8.75 % 9.55 % 8.41 % 8.52 % 8.97 %
     Operating expenses before
          leverage costs and current taxes 1.55 % 1.54 % 1.65 % 1.68 % 1.66 %
     Leverage costs and current taxes 0.32 % 0.50 % 0.45 % 0.47 % 0.48 %
     Distributable cash flow 6.88 % 7.51 % 6.31 % 6.37 % 6.83 %
 
Selected Financial Information
Distributions paid on common stock $ 2,392 $ 2,408 $ 2,424 $ 2,440 $ 2,455
Distributions paid on common stock per share 0.3800   0.3825 0.3850 0.3875 0.3900
Distribution coverage percentage for period (5) 113.0 % 119.0 % 105.9 % 105.8 %   109.2 %
Net realized gain, net of income taxes, for the period   851 5,162 1,500 495   2,791
Total assets, end of period 200,317 208,041 229,941 202,720 224,011
Average total assets during period (6) 205,974 203,054 219,892 220,486 215,393
Leverage (7)   26,100 31,300 30,300 30,000 31,000
Leverage as a percent of total assets 13.0 % 15.0 % 13.2 % 14.8 %   13.8 %
Net unrealized appreciation, end of period 53,928   54,362     67,223       51,876 62,950
Net assets, end of period 152,721 155,942 167,697 149,643 160,792
Average net assets during period (8) 155,864 152,909 163,463 160,994 156,379
Net asset value per common share 24.26   24.77 26.64 23.77 25.54
Market value per common share 23.19 24.05 25.94 24.09 25.69
Shares outstanding 6,295,750 6,295,750 6,295,750 6,295,750 6,295,750

(1) Q1 is the period from December through February. Q2 is the period from March through May. Q3 is the period from June through August. Q4 is the period from September through November.
(2) Leverage costs include interest expense and other recurring leverage expenses.
(3) “Net investment income (loss), before income taxes” on the Statement of Operations is adjusted as follows to reconcile to Distributable Cash Flow (DCF): increased by the return of capital on MLP distributions, the value of paid-in-kind distributions, distributions included in direct placement discounts, and amortization of debt issuance costs; and decreased by current taxes paid on net investment income and realized and unrealized gains (losses) on interest rate swap settlements.
(4) Annualized for periods less than one full year.
(5) Distributable Cash Flow divided by distributions paid.
(6) Computed by averaging month-end values within each period.
(7) Leverage consists of long-term debt obligations and short-term borrowings.
(8) Computed by averaging daily values within each period.

2       Tortoise North American Energy Corp.





Management’s Discussion  (Unaudited)

The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with our Financial Statements and the Notes thereto. In addition, this report contains certain forward-looking statements. These statements include the plans and objectives of management for future operations and financial objectives and can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” or “continue” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Certain factors that could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements are set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of our public filings with the SEC.

Overview

Tortoise North American Energy Corp.’s (“TYN” or the “Company”) investment objective is to seek a high level of total return for our stockholders, with an emphasis on distribution income paid to stockholders. Our investment strategy requires us to invest at least 80 percent of our total assets in equity securities of companies in the energy sector with their primary operations in North America, including energy infrastructure, oil and gas exploitation and energy shipping companies. The equity securities of the energy companies purchased by TYN consist primarily of interests in MLPs. MLPs are publicly traded partnerships whose equity interests are traded in the form of units on public exchanges, such as the NYSE or NASDAQ. We invest primarily in MLPs through public market and private purchases. While we are a registered investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), we are not a “regulated investment company” for federal tax purposes. Our distributions do not typically generate unrelated business taxable income (“UBTI”) and our stock may therefore be suitable for holding by pension funds, IRAs and mutual funds, as well as taxable accounts. Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. serves as our investment adviser.

Company Update

Total assets increased approximately $21.3 million during the 3rd quarter primarily as a result of increased market values of our MLP investments. Average total assets for the quarter decreased 2.3 percent as compared to 2nd quarter 2012, resulting in decreased asset-based expenses. Distribution increases from our MLP investments were in-line with our expectations. Total leverage as a percent of total assets decreased during the quarter and we increased our quarterly distribution to $0.39 per share. Additional information on these events and results of our operations are discussed in more detail below.

Critical Accounting Policies

The financial statements are based on the selection and application of critical accounting policies, which require management to make significant estimates and assumptions. Critical accounting policies are those that are both important to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations and require management’s most difficult, complex, or subjective judgments. Our critical accounting policies are those applicable to the valuation of investments, tax matters and certain revenue recognition matters as discussed in Note 2 in the Notes to Financial Statements.

Determining Distributions to Stockholders

Our portfolio generates cash flow from which we pay distributions to stockholders. Our Board of Directors has adopted a policy of declaring what it believes to be sustainable distributions. In determining distributions, our Board of Directors considers a number of current and anticipated factors, including, among others, distributable cash flow, realized and unrealized gains, leverage amounts and rates, current and deferred taxes payable, and potential volatility in returns from our investments and the overall market. Over the long term, we expect to distribute substantially all of our DCF to holders of common stock. Our Board of Directors reviews the distribution rate quarterly, and may adjust the quarterly distribution throughout the year.

Determining DCF

DCF is distributions received from investments, less expenses. The total distributions received from our investments include the amount received by us as cash distributions from MLPs, paid-in-kind distributions, and dividend and interest payments. The total expenses include current or anticipated operating expenses, leverage costs and current income taxes. Current income taxes include taxes paid on net investment income of the Company, in addition to foreign taxes, if any. Taxes incurred from realized gains on the sale of investments, expected tax benefits and deferred taxes are not included in DCF.

The Key Financial Data table discloses the calculation of DCF and should be read in conjunction with this discussion. The difference between distributions received from investments in the DCF calculation and total investment income as reported in the Statement of Operations, is reconciled as follows: the Statement of Operations, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), recognizes distribution income from MLPs and common stock on their ex-dates, whereas the DCF calculation may reflect distribution income on their pay dates; GAAP recognizes that a significant portion of the cash distributions received from MLPs are characterized as a return of capital and therefore excluded from investment income, whereas the DCF calculation includes the return of capital; and distributions received from investments in the DCF calculation include the value of dividends paid-in-kind (additional stock or MLP units), whereas such amounts are not included as income for GAAP purposes, and includes distributions related to direct investments when the purchase price is reduced in lieu of receiving cash distributions. The treatment of expenses in the DCF calculation also differs from what is reported in the Statement of Operations. In addition to the total operating expenses, including expense reimbursement, as disclosed in the Statement of Operations, the DCF calculation reflects interest expense, realized and unrealized gains (losses) on interest rate swap settlements, other leverage expenses, and current taxes paid on net investment income. A reconciliation of Net Investment Loss, before Income Taxes to DCF is included below.

2012 3rd Quarter Report        3





Management’s Discussion  (Unaudited)
(Continued)

Distributions Received from Investments

Our ability to generate cash is dependent on the ability of our portfolio of investments to generate cash flow from their operations. In order to maintain and grow distributions to our stockholders, we evaluate each holding based upon its contribution to our investment income, our anticipation of its growth rate, and its risk relative to other potential investments.

We concentrate on investments we believe can expect an increasing demand for services from economic and population growth. We seek well-managed businesses with hard assets and stable recurring revenue streams.

Total distributions received from our investments for the 3rd quarter 2012 was approximately $3.5 million. This represents a 2.3 percent increase as compared to 2nd quarter 2012 and an increase of approximately 2.6 percent as compared to 3rd quarter 2011. These changes reflect increases in per share distribution rates on our MLP investments and the distributions received from additional investments funded from leverage proceeds.

Expenses

We incur two types of expenses: (1) operating expenses, consisting primarily of the advisory fee, and (2) leverage costs. On a percentage basis, operating expenses before leverage costs and current taxes were an annualized 1.21 percent of average total assets for the 3rd quarter 2012 as compared to 1.17 percent for the 3rd quarter 2011 and 1.22 percent for the 2nd quarter 2012. The change from 3rd quarter 2011 is primarily the result of a reduction in the fee waiver of 0.05 percent that occurred during 1st quarter 2012.

Advisory fees for the 3rd quarter 2012 decreased 2.6 percent from 2nd quarter 2012 as a result of decreased average managed assets for the quarter as discussed above. Other operating expenses decreased approximately 7.8 percent as compared to 2nd quarter 2012, primarily due to reduced professional fees.

Leverage costs consist of two major components: (1) the direct interest expense, which will vary from period to period as our margin borrowing facility has a variable interest rate, and (2) the realized and unrealized gain or loss on our interest rate swap settlements. Detailed information on our margin borrowing facility is included in the Liquidity and Capital Resources section below.

Total leverage costs for DCF purposes were approximately $190,000 for the 3rd quarter 2012 compared to $189,000 for the 2nd quarter 2012. Our average annualized total cost of leverage, including interest rate swaps, was 2.32 percent as of August 31, 2012.

As indicated in Note 9 of our Notes to Financial Statements, we have entered into $25 million notional amount of interest rate swap contracts with The Bank of Nova Scotia in an attempt to reduce a portion of the interest rate risk arising from our leveraged capital structure. TYN has agreed to pay The Bank of Nova Scotia a fixed rate while receiving a floating rate based upon the 1-month U.S. Dollar London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). The spread between the fixed swap rate and LIBOR is reflected in our Statement of Operations as a realized or unrealized gain when LIBOR exceeds the fixed rate (The Bank of Nova Scotia pays TYN the net difference) or a realized or unrealized loss when the fixed rate exceeds LIBOR (TYN pays The Bank of Nova Scotia the net difference). The interest rate swap contracts have a weighted average fixed rate of 1.70 percent and weighted average remaining maturity of approximately 6.0 years at August 31, 2012. This swap arrangement effectively fixes the cost of approximately 81 percent of our outstanding leverage as of August 31, 2012 over the remaining swap period.

Interest accrues on the margin facility at a rate equal to 1-month LIBOR plus 0.85 percent and unused balances are subject to a fee of 0.25 percent. The annual rate of leverage may vary in future periods as a result of changes in LIBOR, the utilization of our margin facility, and maturity of our interest rate swap contracts. Additional information on our leverage is disclosed below in Liquidity and Capital Resources and in our Notes to Financial Statements.

Distributable Cash Flow

For 3rd quarter 2012, our DCF was approximately $2.7 million, an increase of 3.9 percent as compared to 2nd quarter 2012. The change is the net result of changes to distributions and expenses as outlined above. We declared a distribution of $2.5 million, or $0.39 per share, during the quarter. This represents an increase of $0.01 per share as compared 3rd quarter 2011 and an increase of $0.0025 per share as compared to 2nd quarter 2012.

Our distribution coverage ratio was 109.2 percent for 3rd quarter 2012. Our goal is to pay what we believe to be sustainable distributions with any increases safely covered by earned DCF. A distribution coverage ratio of greater than 100 percent provides flexibility for on-going management of the portfolio, changes in leverage costs and other expenses. An on-going distribution coverage ratio of less than 100 percent will, over time, erode the earning power of a portfolio and may lead to lower distributions or portfolio managers taking on more risk than they otherwise would.

Net investment loss before income taxes on the Statement of Operations is adjusted as follows to reconcile to DCF for 2012 YTD and 3rd quarter 2012 (in thousands):

      2012 YTD       3rd Qtr 2012
Net Investment Loss, before Income Taxes $ (1,917 ) $ (347 )
Adjustments to reconcile to DCF:  
     Dividends paid in stock   630       218  
     Distributions characterized as return of capital 9,393 2,904  
     Interest rate swap expenses (276 ) (93 )
          DCF $ 7,830 $ 2,682

4       Tortoise North American Energy Corp.





Management’s Discussion  (Unaudited)
(Continued)

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We had total assets of $224 million at quarter-end. Our total assets reflect the value of our investments, which are itemized in the Schedule of Investments. It also reflects cash, interest and receivables and any expenses that may have been prepaid. During 3rd quarter 2012, total assets increased by approximately $21.3 million. This change was primarily the result of a $19.5 million increase in the value of our investments as reflected by the change in realized and unrealized gains on investments (excluding return of capital on distributions).

Total leverage outstanding at August 31, 2012 was $31.0 million, an increase of $1.0 million as compared to May 31, 2012. Total leverage represented 13.8 percent of total assets at August 31, 2012, a decrease from 14.8 percent of total assets at May 31, 2012 and an increase from 13.0 percent of total assets at August 31, 2011. Our leverage as a percent of total assets remains below our long-term target level of 20 percent of total assets. This allows the opportunity to add leverage when compelling investment opportunities arise. Temporary increases to up to 25 percent of our total assets may be permitted, provided that such leverage is consistent with the limits set forth in the 1940 Act, and that such leverage is expected to be reduced over time in an orderly fashion to reach our long-term target. Our leverage ratio is impacted by increases or decreases in MLP values, issuance of equity and/or the sale of securities where proceeds are used to reduce leverage.

We have used leverage to acquire securities consistent with our investment philosophy. The terms of our leverage are governed by regulatory and contractual asset coverage requirements that arise from the use of leverage. Additional information on our leverage and asset coverage requirements is discussed in Note 8 in the Notes to Financial Statements. Our coverage ratio is updated each week on our Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.

Taxation of our Distributions and Income Taxes

We invest in partnerships that generally have cash distributions in excess of their income for accounting and tax purposes. Accordingly, the distributions include a return of capital component for accounting and tax purposes. Distributions declared and paid by us in a year generally differ from taxable income for that year, as such distributions may include the distribution of current year taxable income or return of capital.

The taxability of the distribution you receive depends on whether we have annual earnings and profits (“E&P”). E&P is primarily comprised of the taxable income from MLPs with certain specified adjustments as reported on annual K-1s, fund operating expenses and net realized gains. If we have E&P, it is first allocated to preferred shares (if any) and then to the common shares.

In the event we have E&P allocated to our common shares, all or a portion of our distribution will be taxable at the 15 percent Qualified Dividend Income (“QDI”) rate, assuming various holding requirements are met by the stockholder. The 15 percent QDI rate is currently effective through 2012. The portion of our distribution that is taxable may vary for either of two reasons. First, the characterization of the distributions we receive from MLPs could change annually based upon the K-1 allocations and result in less return of capital and more in the form of income. Second, we could sell an MLP investment and realize a gain or loss at any time. It is for these reasons that we inform you of the tax treatment after the close of each year as the ultimate characterization of our distributions is undeterminable until the year is over.

For tax purposes, distributions to common stockholders for the fiscal year ended 2011 were 100 percent qualified dividend income. This information is reported to stockholders on Form 1099-DIV and is available on our Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com. For book purposes, the source of distributions to common stockholders for the fiscal year ended 2011 was 100 percent return of capital. We currently estimate that 80 to 100 percent of 2012 distributions will be characterized as qualified dividend income for tax purposes, with the remaining percentage, if any, characterized as return of capital. A final determination of the characterization will be made in January 2013.

The unrealized gain or loss we have in the portfolio is reflected in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. At August 31, 2012, our investments are valued at $223.4 million, with an adjusted cost of $141.3 million. The $82.1 million difference reflects unrealized gain that would be realized for financial statement purposes if those investments were sold at those values. The Statement of Assets and Liabilities also reflects either a net deferred tax liability or net deferred tax asset depending primarily upon unrealized gains (losses) on investments, realized gains (losses) on investments, capital loss carryforwards and net operating losses. At August 31, 2012, the balance sheet reflects a net deferred tax liability of approximately $27.1 million or $4.30 per share. Accordingly, our net asset value per share represents the amount which would be available for distribution to stockholders after payment of taxes.

As of November 30, 2011, we had approximately $15 million in capital loss carryforwards and $11 million in net operating losses. To the extent we have taxable income that is not offset by either capital loss carryforwards or net operating losses, we will owe federal and state income taxes. Tax payments can be funded from investment earnings, fund assets or borrowings. Details of our taxes are disclosed in Note 5 in our Notes to Financial Statements.

2012 3rd Quarter Report        5





S CHEDULE  O F I NVESTMENTS
August 31, 2012
(Unaudited)

      Shares       Fair Value
Master Limited Partnerships and
     Related Companies — 136.2% (1)
 
Crude/Refined Products Pipelines — 45.7% (1)
United States — 45.7% (1)
Buckeye Partners, L.P. (2) 186,700 $ 9,226,714
Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P. (2) 282,519 8,323,010  
Holly Energy Partners, L.P. (2) 67,560     4,550,166
Kinder Morgan Management, L.L.C. (2)(3) 154,570 11,456,721
Magellan Midstream Partners, L.P. (2) 154,700 12,835,459
NuStar Energy L.P. (2)   109,300 5,543,696
Oiltanking Partners, L.P. 24,900 915,822
Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (2) 136,700 11,828,651
Sunoco Logistics Partners L.P. (2) 159,800 7,454,670
Tesoro Logistics L.P. (2) 30,700 1,337,599
  73,472,508
 
Natural Gas/Natural Gas Liquids Pipelines — 52.8% (1)
United States — 52.8% (1)
Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, L.P. (2) 151,612 4,098,072
El Paso Pipeline Partners, L.P. (2) 386,510 13,987,797
Energy Transfer Equity, L.P. (2) 131,959 5,799,598
Energy Transfer Partners, L.P. (2) 177,840 7,597,325
Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (2)(4) 300,100 16,025,340
EQT Midstream Partners, L.P. 44,263 1,215,462
Inergy Midstream, L.P. 125,900 2,933,470
ONEOK Partners, L.P. (2) 156,200 8,875,284
Regency Energy Partners L.P. (2) 382,700 8,855,678
Spectra Energy Partners, L.P. (2) 102,300 3,275,646
TC PipeLines, L.P. (2) 49,600 2,252,832
Williams Partners L.P. (2) 195,100 10,063,258
  84,979,762
 
Natural Gas Gathering/Processing — 17.1% (1)
United States — 17.1% (1)
Access Midstream Partners, L.P. (2) 96,800 2,916,584
Copano Energy, L.L.C. (2) 152,916 4,692,992
Crestwood Midstream Partners, L.P. (3) 90,356 2,222,758
DCP Midstream Partners, L.P. (2) 107,759 4,648,723
MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P. (2) 82,600 4,386,060
Targa Resources Partners L.P. (2) 120,800 4,894,816
Western Gas Partners L.P. (2) 77,300 3,691,075
  27,453,008
 
Oil and Gas Production — 19.3% (1)
United States — 19.3% (1)
BreitBurn Energy Partners L.P. (2) 181,288 3,547,806
EV Energy Partners, L.P. (2) 121,600 7,632,832
Legacy Reserves, L.P. (2) 126,600 3,530,874
Linn Energy, L.L.C. (2) 256,200 10,186,512
Pioneer Southwest Energy Partners L.P. (2) 150,900 3,863,040
Vanguard Natural Resources, LLC (2) 78,000 2,232,360
  30,993,424
 
Marine Transportation — 1.3% (1)
Republic of the Marshall Islands — 1.3% (1)
Teekay LNG Partners L.P. (2) 53,500 2,125,020
Total Master Limited Partnerships and
     Related Companies (Cost $138,133,937) 219,023,722
 
Common Stock — 2.7% (1)
 
Marine Transportation — 2.7% (1)
Republic of the Marshall Islands — 2.7% (1)
Navios Maritime Partners L.P. 47,600 688,772
Teekay Offshore Partners L.P. (2) 127,175 3,610,498
Total Common Stock (Cost $3,117,739) 4,299,270
 
Short-Term Investment — 0.0% (1)
United States Investment Company — 0.0% (1)
Fidelity Institutional Money Market Portfolio —
     Class I, 0.16% (5) (Cost $71,431) 71,431 71,431
Total Investments — 138.9% (1)
     (Cost $141,323,107) 223,394,423
Interest Rate Swap Contracts — (0.8%) (1)
$25,000,000 notional — Unrealized Depreciation (6) (1,342,669 )
Other Assets and Liabilities — (38.1%) (1) (61,260,032 )
Total Net Assets Applicable to Common
     Stockholders — 100.0% (1) $ 160,791,722

(1) Calculated as a percentage of net assets applicable to common stockholders.
(2) All or a portion of the security is segregated as collateral for the margin borrowing facility. See Note 8 to the financial statements for further disclosure.
(3) Security distributions are paid-in-kind.
(4) All or a portion of the security is segregated as collateral for the unrealized depreciation of interest rate swap contracts of $1,342,669.
(5) Rate reported is the current yield as of August 31, 2012.
(6) See Note 9 to the financial statements for further disclosure.

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

6       Tortoise North American Energy Corp.





Statement of Assets & Liabilities
August 31, 2012
(Unaudited)

Assets      
     Investments at fair value (cost $141,323,107) $ 223,394,423
     Receivable for investments sold 489,216
     Distributions receivable from master limited partnerships 15,600
     Prepaid expenses and other assets 112,190
               Total assets 224,011,429
 
Liabilities
     Payable to Adviser 370,426
     Distributions payable to common stockholders 2,455,343  
     Payable for investments purchased 794,239
     Accrued expenses and other liabilities 158,161
     Unrealized depreciation of interest rate swap contracts   1,342,669
     Deferred tax liability   27,098,869
     Short-term borrowings 31,000,000
               Total liabilities 63,219,707
               Net assets applicable to common stockholders $ 160,791,722
 
Net Assets Applicable to Common Stockholders Consist of:
     Capital stock, $0.001 par value; 6,295,750 shares issued and
          outstanding (100,000,000 shares authorized) $ 6,296
     Additional paid-in capital 99,443,125
     Accumulated net investment loss, net of income taxes (1,783,912 )
     Undistributed net realized gain, net of income taxes 176,453
     Net unrealized appreciation of investments and
          interest rate swap contracts, net of income taxes 62,949,760
               Net assets applicable to common stockholders $ 160,791,722
 
     Net Asset Value per common share outstanding
          (net assets applicable to common stock,
          divided by common shares outstanding) $ 25.54

Statement of Operations
Period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012
(Unaudited)
 
Investment Income
     Distributions from master limited partnerships       $ 9,376,156
     Less return of capital on distributions (9,393,008 )
     Net distributions from master limited partnerships (16,852 )
     Dividend income 387,573
     Dividends from money market mutual funds 244
          Total Investment Income 370,965
Operating Expenses
     Advisory fees 1,627,748
     Professional fees 128,574
     Administrator fees 65,110
     Directors’ fees 50,804
     Stockholder communication expenses 30,951
     Fund accounting fees 28,398
     Registration fees 18,558
     Stock transfer agent fees 9,344
     Custodian fees and expenses 9,197
     Other operating expenses 40,921
          Total Operating Expenses 2,009,605
 
Leverage Expenses
     Interest expense 287,624
          Total Expenses 2,297,229
     Less fees waived by Adviser (8,924 )
          Net Expenses 2,288,305
Net Investment Loss, before Income Taxes (1,917,340 )
     Deferred tax benefit 712,861
Net Investment Loss (1,204,479 )
Realized and Unrealized Gain on Investments
     and Interest Rate Swaps
          Net realized gain on investments   7,892,626
          Net realized loss on interest rate swap settlements (274,766 )
               Net realized gain, before income taxes 7,617,860
                    Current tax expense (13,102 )
                    Deferred tax expense (2,819,196 )
                         Income tax expense (2,832,298 )
                              Net realized gain on investments and
                                   interest rate swaps 4,785,562
          Net unrealized appreciation of investments 14,612,541
          Net unrealized depreciation of interest rate swap contracts (942,103 )
               Net unrealized appreciation, before income taxes 13,670,438
                    Deferred tax expense (5,082,630 )
                         Net unrealized appreciation of investments
                                   and interest rate swap contracts 8,587,808
Net Realized and Unrealized Gain on Investments
     and Interest Rate Swaps 13,373,370
Net Increase in Net Assets Applicable to Common Stockholders
     Resulting from Operations $ 12,168,891

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

2012 3rd Quarter Report        7





Statement of Changes in Net Assets
 
Period from
December 1, 2011
through Year Ended
      August 31, 2012       November 30, 2011
(Unaudited)
Operations
     Net investment loss      $ (1,204,479 )       $ (745,435 )
     Net realized gain on investments and interest rate swaps 4,785,562 13,688,777
     Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments
          and interest rate swap contracts 8,587,808 (1,784,521 )
          Net increase in net assets applicable to common stockholders
               resulting from operations 12,168,891 11,158,821
Distributions to Common Stockholders  
     Net investment income  
     Return of capital   (7,318,809 )   (9,506,583 )
          Total distributions to common stockholders (7,318,809 ) (9,506,583 )
     Total increase in net assets applicable to common stockholders 4,850,082 1,652,238
Net Assets  
     Beginning of period 155,941,640 154,289,402
     End of period $ 160,791,722 $ 155,941,640
     Accumulated net investment loss, net of income taxes, end of period $ (1,783,912 ) $ (579,433 )

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

8       Tortoise North American Energy Corp.





Statement of Cash Flows 
Period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012
(Unaudited)

Cash Flows from Operating Activities
     Distributions received from master limited partnerships $ 9,360,556
     Dividend income received 387,832
     Purchases of long-term investments (28,091,963 )
     Proceeds from sales of long-term investments 25,912,736
     Proceeds from sales of short-term investments, net 104,888
     Payments on interest rate swap contracts, net (274,766 )
     Interest expense paid (287,572 )
     Income taxes paid (12,369 )
     Operating expenses paid (1,965,247 )
          Net cash provided by operating activities 5,134,095
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
     Advances from margin loan facility 18,100,000
     Repayments on margin loan facility (18,400,000 )
     Distributions paid to common stockholders (4,863,467 )
          Net cash used in financing activities (5,163,467 )
     Net change in cash (29,372 )
     Cash — beginning of period 29,372
     Cash — end of period $
Reconciliation of net increase in net assets applicable to
      common stockholders resulting from operations to net cash    
      provided by operating activities
     Net increase in net assets applicable to common
          stockholders resulting from operations $ 12,168,891
     Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets
          applicable to common stockholders resulting from
          operations to net cash provided by operating activities:
               Purchases of long-term investments  (28,886,202 )
               Proceeds from sales of long-term investments 26,306,945
               Proceeds from sales of short-term investments, net 104,888
               Payments on interest rate swap contracts, net (274,766 )
               Return of capital on distributions received 9,393,008
               Deferred tax expense 7,188,965
               Net unrealized appreciation of investments and
                    interest rate swap contracts (13,670,438 )
               Net realized gain on investments and
                    interest rate swap contracts (7,617,860 )
               Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
                    Increase in distributions receivable from
                         master limited partnerships (15,600 )
                    Increase in receivable for investments sold (394,209 )
                    Increase in prepaid expenses and other assets (19,874 )
                    Increase in payable to Adviser, net of fee waiver   49,792  
                    Increase in payable for investments purchased 794,239
                    Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities 6,316
                         Total adjustments (7,034,796 )
     Net cash provided by operating activities $ 5,134,095

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

2012 3rd Quarter Report        9





Financial Highlights 
 
Period from
December 1, 2011 Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended
through November 30, November 30, November 30, November 30, November 30,
      August 31, 2012       2011       2010       2009       2008       2007
(Unaudited)
Per Common Share Data (1)
     Net Asset Value, beginning of period        $ 24.77 $ 24.51 $ 20.22 $ 10.78 $ 27.25 $ 23.70
     Income (Loss) from Investment Operations
          Net investment income (loss) (2) (0.19 ) (0.12 ) (0.09 ) 0.25 0.43 0.72
          Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
               interest rate swaps contracts (2) 2.12 1.89 5.86 10.67 (15.14 ) 4.47
               Total income (loss) from investment operations 1.93 1.77 5.77 10.92 (14.71 ) 5.19
     Distributions to Preferred Stockholders
          Net investment income (0.12 )
          Net realized gain (0.07 )
          Return of capital (0.17 )
               Total distributions to preferred stockholders (0.17 ) (0.19 )
     Distributions to Common Stockholders
          Net investment income (0.90 )
          Net realized gain (0.10 ) (0.55 )
          Return of capital (1.16 ) (1.51 ) (1.48 ) (1.48 ) (1.49 )
               Total distributions to common stockholders (1.16 ) (1.51 ) (1.48 ) (1.48 ) (1.59 ) (1.45 )
     Net Asset Value, end of period $ 25.54 $ 24.77 $ 24.51 $ 20.22 $ 10.78 $ 27.25
 
     Per common share market value, end of period $ 25.69 $ 24.05 $ 24.44 $ 19.49 $ 9.25 $ 23.10
     Total Investment Return Based on Market Value (3) 11.92 % 4.77 % 33.62 % 131.66 % (55.98 )% 9.28 %
 
Supplemental Data and Ratios
     Net assets applicable to common stockholders,
          end of period (000’s) $  160,792 $  155,942 $  154,289 $  126,609 $ 49,716 $ 125,702
     Average net assets (000’s) $ 160,267 $ 157,410 $ 141,986 $ 80,041 $  113,045   $  125,379
     Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (4)    
          Advisory fees 1.35 % 1.28 % 1.19 %   1.13 % 1.50 % 1.45 %
          Other expenses 0.32 0.32     0.38 1.01   0.48 0.40
          Fee waiver   (0.01 )   (0.07 ) (0.12 ) (0.12 ) (0.23 ) (0.29 )
               Subtotal   1.66 1.53   1.45     2.02   1.75 1.56
     Leverage expenses (5) 0.24 0.47 0.75 1.17 3.71 2.01
     Income tax expense (benefit) (6) 5.98 4.30 13.10 (4.70 ) 0.06 0.02
          Total expenses 7.88 % 6.30 % 15.30 % (1.51 )% 5.52 % 3.59 %

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

10        Tortoise North American Energy Corp.





Financial Highlights (Continued)
 
Period from
December 1, 2011 Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended
through November 30, November 30, November 30, November 30, November 30,
      August 31, 2012       2011       2010       2009       2008       2007
(Unaudited)  
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
     before fee waiver (4)(5)         (1.01 )%     (0.54 )%     (0.50 )%     1.82 %     1.51 %     2.37 %
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
     after fee waiver (4)(5) (1.00 )% (0.47 )% (0.38 )% 1.94 % 1.74 % 2.66 %
Portfolio turnover rate 12.07 % 27.34 % 27.89 % 41.90 % 36.69 % 16.06 %
Short-term borrowings, end of period (000’s) 31,000 31,300 10,400 5,900 9,600
Long-term debt obligations, end of period (000’s) $ 15,000 $ 15,000 15,000 $ 40,000
Preferred stock, end of period (000’s)   $ 10,000 $ 15,000
Per common share amount of long-term debt obligations
     outstanding, end of period $ 2.38 $ 2.40 $ 3.25   $ 8.67
Per common share amount of net assets, excluding  
     long-term debt obligations, end of period $ 25.54 $ 24.77 $ 26.89 $ 22.61   $ 14.03 $ 35.92
Asset coverage, per $1,000 of principal amount of      
     long-term debt obligations and short-term borrowings (7) $ 6,187 $ 5,982 $ 7,074 $ 7,058 $ 4,981 $ 3,837
Asset coverage ratio of long-term debt obligations    
     and short-term borrowings (7) 619 % 598 % 707 % 706 % 498 % 384 %
Asset coverage, per $25,000 liquidation value per share          
     of preferred stock (8)   $ 74,716 $ 73,646
Asset coverage ratio of preferred stock (8) 299 % 295 %

(1) Information presented relates to a share of common stock outstanding for the entire period.
(2) The per common share data for the years ended November 30, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, and 2007 do not reflect the change in estimate of investment income and return of capital, for the respective year. See Note 2E to the financial statements for further disclosure.
(3) Not annualized. Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock at the beginning of the period and a sale at the closing price on the last day of the period reported (excluding broker commissions). The calculation also assumes reinvestment of distributions at actual prices pursuant to the Company’s dividend reinvestment plan.
(4) Annualized for periods less than one full year.
(5) The expense ratios and net investment income (loss) ratios do not reflect the effect of distributions to preferred stockholders.
(6) For the period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012, the Company accrued $13,102 for current income tax expense and $7,188,965 for net deferred income tax expense. For the years ended November 30, 2011 and 2010, the Company accrued $6,732,194 and $18,559,864, respectively, for net deferred income tax expense. For the year ended November 30, 2009, the Company accrued $3,732,366 for net deferred income tax benefit, which included $5,488,509 of deferred income tax benefit for the timing differences at December 1, 2008 when the Company converted to a taxable corporation. The Company accrued $44,786, $39,097, $(28,837), $68,509 and $22,447 for the years ended November 30, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, for current and foreign tax (benefit) expense.
(7) Represents value of total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by long-term debt obligations, short-term borrowings and preferred stock at the end of the period divided by long-term debt obligations and short-term borrowings outstanding at the end of the period.
(8) Represents value of total assets less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by long-term debt obligations, short-term borrowings and preferred stock at the end of the period divided by long-term debt obligations, short-term borrowings and preferred stock outstanding at the end of the period.

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

2012 3rd Quarter Report        11





Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

August 31, 2012

1. Organization

Tortoise North American Energy Corporation (the “Company”) was organized as a Maryland corporation on January 13, 2005, and is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). The Company’s investment objective is to seek a high level of total return with an emphasis on distribution income paid to stockholders. The Company seeks to provide its stockholders with a vehicle to invest in a portfolio consisting primarily of publicly traded U.S. master limited partnerships (“MLPs”), including oil and gas exploitation, energy infrastructure and energy shipping companies. The Company commenced operations on October 31, 2005. The Company’s stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “TYN.”

2. Significant Accounting Policies

A. Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, recognition of distribution income and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

B. Investment Valuation

The Company primarily owns securities that are listed on a securities exchange or over-the-counter market. The Company values those securities at their last sale price on that exchange or over-the-counter market on the valuation date. If the security is listed on more than one exchange, the Company uses the price from the exchange that it considers to be the principal exchange on which the security is traded. Securities listed on the NASDAQ will be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may not necessarily represent the last sale price. If there has been no sale on such exchange or over-the-counter market on such day, the security will be valued at the mean between the last bid price and last ask price on such day.

The Company may invest up to 50 percent of its total assets in restricted securities. Restricted securities are subject to statutory and contractual restrictions on their public resale, which may make it more difficult to obtain a valuation and may limit the Company’s ability to dispose of them. Investments in restricted securities and other securities for which market quotations are not readily available will be valued in good faith by using fair value procedures approved by the Board of Directors. Such fair value procedures consider factors such as discounts to publicly traded issues, time until conversion date, securities with similar yields, quality, type of issue, coupon, duration and rating. If events occur that affect the value of the Company’s portfolio securities before the net asset value has been calculated (a “significant event”), the portfolio securities so affected will generally be priced using fair value procedures. The Company did not hold any restricted securities at August 31, 2012.

An equity security of a publicly traded company acquired in a direct placement transaction may be subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the security’s liquidity and fair value. Such securities that are convertible or otherwise will become freely tradable will be valued based on the market value of the freely tradable security less an applicable discount. Generally, the discount will initially be equal to the discount at which the Company purchased the securities. To the extent that such securities are convertible or otherwise become freely tradable within a time frame that may be reasonably determined, an amortization schedule may be used to determine the discount.

The Company generally values debt securities at prices based on market quotations for such securities, except those securities purchased with 60 days or less to maturity are valued on the basis of amortized cost, which approximates market value.

The Company generally values its interest rate swap contracts using industry-accepted models which discount the estimated future cash flows based on the stated terms of the interest rate swap agreement by using interest rates currently available in the market, or based on dealer quotations, if available.

C. Foreign Currency Translation

For foreign currency, investments in foreign securities, and other assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency, the Company translates these amounts into U.S. dollars on the following basis:

      (1)   market value of investment securities, assets and liabilities at the current rate of exchange on the valuation date and
 
  (2)   purchases and sales of investment securities, income and expenses at the relevant rates of exchange on the respective dates of such transactions.

The Company does not isolate that portion of gains and losses on investments that is due to changes in the foreign exchange rates from that which is due to changes in market prices of equity securities.

D. Foreign Withholding Taxes

The Company may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which it invests with respect to its investment in issuers existing or operating in such countries. Such taxes are generally based on income earned. The Company accrues such taxes when the related income is earned.

E. Security Transactions and Investment Income

Security transactions are accounted for on the date the securities are purchased or sold (trade date). Realized gains and losses are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income is recognized on the accrual basis, including amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Dividend and distribution income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received from the Company’s investments in MLPs generally are comprised of ordinary income and return of capital from the MLPs. The Company allocates distributions between investment income and return of capital based on estimates made at the time such distributions are received. Such estimates are based on information provided by each MLP and other industry sources. These estimates may subsequently be revised based on actual allocations received from MLPs after their tax reporting periods are concluded, as the actual character of these distributions is not known until after the fiscal year end of the Company.

For the period from December 1, 2010 through November 30, 2011, the Company estimated the allocation of investment income and return of capital for the distributions received from MLPs within the Statement of Operations. For this period, the Company had estimated approximately 12 percent of total distributions as investment income and approximately 88 percent as return of capital.

Subsequent to November 30, 2011, the Company reallocated the amount of investment income and return of capital it recognized for the period from December 1, 2010 through November 30, 2011 based on the 2011 tax reporting information received from the individual MLPs. This reclassification amounted to a decrease in pre-tax net investment income of approximately $920,000 or $0.146 per share ($577,000 or $0.092 per share, net of deferred tax benefit), an increase in unrealized appreciation of investments of approximately $806,000 or $0.128 per share ($505,000 or $0.080 per share, net of deferred tax expense), and an increase in realized gains of approximately $114,000 or $0.018 per share ($72,000 or $0.012 per share, net of deferred tax expense) for the period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012.

Subsequent to the period ended February 29, 2012, the Company reallocated the amount of investment income and return of capital it recognized in the current fiscal year based on its revised 2012 estimates, after considering the final allocations for 2011. This reclassification amounted to a decrease in pre-tax net investment income of approximately $78,000 or $0.012 per share ($49,000 or $0.008 per share, net of deferred tax benefit), an increase in unrealized appreciation of investments of approximately $47,000 or $0.007 per share ($30,000 or $0.005 per share, net of deferred tax expense), and an increase in realized gains of approximately $31,000 or $0.005 per share ($19,000 or $0.003 per share, net of deferred tax expense).

12        Tortoise North American Energy Corp.





Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
(Continued)

F. Distributions to Stockholders

Distributions to common stockholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The Company may not declare or pay distributions to its common stockholders if it does not meet asset coverage ratios required under the 1940 Act or the rating agency guidelines for its debt and preferred stock (if any) following such distribution. The character of distributions to stockholders made during the year may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. For book purposes, the source of the Company’s distributions to common stockholders for the year ended November 30, 2011 and the period ended August 31, 2012 was 100 percent return of capital. For tax purposes, the Company’s distributions for the year ended November 30, 2011 were 100 percent qualified dividend income. The tax character of distributions paid to common stockholders in the current year will be determined subsequent to November 30, 2012.

G. Federal Income Taxation

From the Company’s inception through November 30, 2008, the Company qualified as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Effective December 1, 2008, the Company is treated as a taxable corporation for federal and state income tax purposes. The Company, as a corporation, is obligated to pay federal and state income tax on its taxable income. Currently, the highest regular marginal federal income tax rate for a corporation is 35 percent; however, the Company anticipates a marginal effective rate of 34 percent due to expectations of the level of taxable income relative to the federal graduated tax rates, including the tax rate anticipated when temporary differences reverse. The Company may be subject to a 20 percent federal alternative minimum tax (“AMT”) on its federal alternative minimum taxable income to the extent that its AMT exceeds its regular federal income tax.

The Company invests in MLPs, which generally are treated as partnerships for federal income tax purposes. As a limited partner in the MLPs, the Company reports its allocable share of the MLP’s taxable income in computing its own taxable income. The Company’s tax expense or benefit is included in the Statement of Operations based on the component of income or gains (losses) to which such expense or benefit relates. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred income tax asset will not be realized.

H. Offering and Debt Issuance Costs

Offering costs related to the issuance of common and preferred stock are charged to additional paid-in capital when the stock is issued. Debt issuance costs related to long-term debt obligations are capitalized and amortized over the period the debt is outstanding.

I. Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company uses derivative financial instruments (principally interest rate swap and forward foreign currency contracts) to manage interest rate and currency risks. The Company has established policies and procedures for risk assessment and the approval, reporting and monitoring of derivative financial instrument activities. The Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. All derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value during the reporting period, and amounts accrued under the agreements, included as unrealized gains or losses in the accompanying Statement of Operations. Cash settlements under the terms of the interest rate swap and forward foreign currency contracts and termination of such contracts are recorded as realized gains or losses in the accompanying Statement of Operations.

J. Indemnifications

Under the Company’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Company. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Company may enter into contracts that provide general indemnification to other parties. The Company’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Company that have not yet occurred, and may not occur. However, the Company has not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.

K. Recent Accounting Pronouncement

In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04 “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements” in GAAP and the International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”). ASU No. 2011-04 amends FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, to establish common requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements in accordance with GAAP and IFRSs. ASU No. 2011-04 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011 and for interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company has adopted these amendments and they did not have a material impact on the financial statements.

3. Concentration of Risk

Under normal conditions, the Company will have at least 80 percent of its total assets in equity securities of companies in the energy sector with their primary operations in North America (“Energy Companies”). Energy Companies include companies that derive more than 50 percent of their revenues from transporting, processing, storing, distributing or marketing natural gas, natural gas liquids, electricity, coal, crude oil or refined petroleum products, or exploring, developing, managing or producing such commodities. The Company may invest up to 50 percent of its total assets in restricted securities. In determining application of these policies, the term “total assets” includes assets obtained through leverage. Companies that primarily invest in a particular sector may experience greater volatility than companies investing in a broad range of industry sectors. The Company may, for defensive purposes, temporarily invest all or a significant portion of its assets in investment grade securities, short-term debt securities and cash or cash equivalents. To the extent the Company uses this strategy, it may not achieve its investment objective.

4. Agreements

The Company has entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. (the “Adviser”). Under the terms of the agreement, the Company pays the Adviser a fee equal to an annual rate of 1.00 percent of the Company’s average monthly total assets (including any assets attributable to leverage) minus accrued liabilities (other than debt entered into for purposes of leverage and the aggregate liquidation preference of outstanding preferred stock, if any) (“Managed Assets”), in exchange for the investment advisory services provided. The Adviser waived fees in an amount equal to an annual rate of 0.05 percent of the Company’s average monthly Managed Assets from January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011.

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC serves as the Company’s administrator. The Company pays the administrator a monthly fee computed at an annual rate of 0.04 percent of the first $1,000,000,000 of the Company’s Managed Assets, 0.01 percent on the next $500,000,000 of Managed Assets and 0.005 percent on the balance of the Company’s Managed Assets.

Computershare Trust Company, N.A. serves as the Company’s transfer agent and registrar and Computershare Inc. serves as the Company’s dividend paying agent and agent for the automatic dividend reinvestment plan.

U.S. Bank, N.A. serves as custodian of the Company’s cash and investment securities. The Company pays the custodian a monthly fee computed at an annual rate of 0.004 percent of the Company’s portfolio assets, plus portfolio transaction fees.

2012 3rd Quarter Report        13





Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
(Continued)

5. Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and tax purposes. Components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities as of August 31, 2012, are as follows:

Deferred tax assets:
     Net operating loss carryforwards $ 5,932,144
     Capital loss carryforwards 4,512,681
     AMT credit 33,959
     Organization costs 43,072
     State of Kansas credit 4,055
  10,525,911
Deferred tax liabilities:  
     Basis reduction of investment in MLPs 7,542,090
     Net unrealized gains on investment securities 30,082,690
  37,624,780
Total net deferred tax liability 27,098,869

At August 31, 2012, a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets was not deemed necessary because the Company believes it is more likely than not that there is an ability to realize its deferred tax assets through future taxable income of the appropriate character. Any adjustments to the Company’s estimates of future taxable income will be made in the period such determination is made. The Company’s policy is to record interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions as part of tax expense. As of August 31, 2012, the Company had no uncertain tax positions and no penalties and interest were accrued. Tax years subsequent to the year ending November 30, 2006 remain open to examination by federal and state tax authorities.

Total income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate of 34 percent to net investment loss and net realized and unrealized gains on investments for the period ended August 31, 2012, as follows:

Application of statutory income tax rate $ 6,586,126
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit   629,557
Change in deferred tax liability due to change in overall tax rate 22,642
Dividends received deduction (41,995 )
Other 5,737  
Total income tax expense 7,202,067

Total income taxes are computed by applying the federal statutory rate plus a blended state income tax rate. During the period, the Company re-evaluated its blended state income tax rate, increasing the overall rate from 37.19 percent to 37.25 percent due to anticipated state apportionment of income and gains.

For the period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012, the components of income tax expense include the following:

Current tax expense
     State $ 9,143
     AMT 3,959
Total current tax expense 13,102
Deferred tax expense  
     Federal 6,561,740
     State (net of federal tax benefit) 627,225
Total deferred tax expense 7,188,965
Total income tax expense 7,202,067

The Company acquired all of the net assets of Tortoise Gas and Oil Corporation (“TGO”) on September 14, 2009 in a tax-free reorganization under Section 368(a)(1)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code. As of November 30, 2011, the Company had a net operating loss for federal income tax purposes of approximately $10,650,000. This includes a net operating loss of $7,935,000 from TGO. The net operating loss may be carried forward for 20 years. If not utilized, this net operating loss will expire as follows: $2,677,000, $5,258,000, $463,000, $2,247,000 and $5,000 in the years ending November 30, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030 and 2031, respectively. Utilization of the net operating loss from TGO is further subject to Section 382 limitations of the Internal Revenue Code, which limit tax attributes subsequent to ownership changes.

As of November 30, 2011, the Company had a capital loss carryforward of approximately $15,300,000, which may be carried forward for 5 years. This amount includes a capital loss of $2,700,000 from TGO. If not utilized, the capital loss will expire as follows: $1,400,000, $5,800,000 and $8,100,000 in the years ending November 30, 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively. The amount of deferred tax asset for these items at August 31, 2012 includes amounts for the period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012. For corporations, capital losses can only be used to offset capital gains and cannot be used to offset ordinary income. As of November 30, 2011, an AMT credit of $33,959 was available, which may be credited in the future against regular income tax. This credit may be carried forward indefinitely.

As of August 31, 2012, the aggregate cost of securities for federal income tax purposes was $121,075,887. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of fair value over tax cost was $102,318,536, the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all securities in which there was an excess of tax cost over fair value was $0 and the net unrealized appreciation was $102,318,536.

6. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Company’s investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:

      Level 1 —  quoted prices in active markets for identical investments
     
Level 2 — other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar investments, market corroborated inputs, etc.)
     
  Level 3 — significant unobservable inputs (including the Company’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments)

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

The following table provides the fair value measurements of applicable Company assets by level within the fair value hierarchy as of August 31, 2012. These assets are measured on a recurring basis.

Fair Value at
Description       August 31, 2012       Level 1       Level 2       Level 3
Assets  
Equity Securities:        
       Common Stock (a) $ 4,299,270 $ 4,299,270 $ $
       Master Limited Partnerships
              and Related Companies (a) 219,023,722 219,023,722  
Total Equity Securities     223,322,992 223,322,992  
Other:    
       Short-Term Investment (b) 71,431   71,431    
Total Assets $ 223,394,423 $ 223,394,423 $ $
 
Liabilities
Interest Rate Swap Contracts $ 1,342,669 $ $ 1,342,669 $          —

(a) All other industry classifications are identified in the Schedule of Investments.
(b) Short-term investment is a sweep investment for cash balances in the Company at August 31, 2012.

14        Tortoise North American Energy Corp.





Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)
(Continued)

Valuation Techniques

In general, and where applicable, the Company uses readily available market quotations based upon the last updated sales price from the principal market to determine fair value. This pricing methodology applies to the Company’s Level 1 investments.

An equity security of a publicly traded company acquired in a private placement transaction without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”), is subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the security’s fair value. If such a security is convertible into publicly-traded common shares, the security generally will be valued at the common share market price adjusted by a percentage discount due to the restrictions and categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. If the security has characteristics that are dissimilar to the class of security that trades on the open market, the security will generally be valued and categorized as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

Interest rate swap contracts are valued by using industry-accepted models which discount the estimated future cash flows based on a forward rate curve and the stated terms of the interest rate swap agreement by using interest rates currently available in the market, or based on dealer quotations, if available, which applies to the Company’s Level 2 liabilities.

The Company utilizes the beginning of reporting period method for determining transfers between levels. For the period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012, Teekay Offshore Partners, L.P. common units in the amount of $1,371,505 were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1 when they converted into registered units and quoted prices in active markets were available. There were no other transfers between levels.

7. Investment Transactions

For the period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012, the Company purchased (at cost) and sold securities (proceeds received) in the amount of $28,886,202 and $26,306,945 (excluding short-term debt securities), respectively.

8. Credit Facility

On June 15, 2011, the Company entered into a 270-day rolling evergreen margin loan facility with Bank of America, N.A. The terms of the agreement provide for a $40,000,000 facility that is secured by certain of the Company’s assets. Outstanding balances generally will accrue interest at a variable rate equal to one-month LIBOR plus 0.85 percent and unused portions of the facility will accrue a fee equal to an annual rate of 0.25 percent.

The average principal balance and interest rate for the period during which the margin loan facility was utilized during the period from December 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012 was approximately $32,500,000 and 1.10 percent, respectively. At August 31, 2012, the principal balance outstanding was $31,000,000 at an interest rate of 1.08 percent.

Under the terms of the margin loan facility, the Company must maintain asset coverage required under the 1940 Act. If the Company fails to maintain the required coverage, it may be required to repay a portion of an outstanding balance until the coverage requirement has been met. At August 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance with the terms of the margin loan facility.

9. Interest Rate Swap Contracts

The Company has entered into interest rate swap contracts in an attempt to protect itself from increasing interest expense on its leverage resulting from increasing short-term interest rates. A decline in interest rates may result in a decline in the value of the swap contracts, which may result in a decline in the net assets of the Company. At the time the interest rate swap contracts reach their scheduled termination, there is a risk that the Company would not be able to obtain a replacement transaction, or that the terms of the replacement would not be as favorable as on the expiring transaction. In addition, if the Company is required to terminate any swap contract early due to the net assets of the Company falling below $48,000,000 or the Company failing to maintain a required 300 percent asset coverage of the liquidation value of the outstanding debt, then the Company could be required to make a termination payment to the extent of the Company’s net liability position, in addition to redeeming all or some of the debt. The Company has segregated a portion of its assets as collateral for the amount of the net liability of its interest rate swap contracts. Details of the interest rate swap contracts outstanding as of August 31, 2012, are as follows:

Fixed Rate Floating Rate
Maturity Notional Paid by the Received by Liability
Counterparty       Date       Amount       Company       the Company       Derivatives
The Bank of Nova Scotia 09/02/2014 $ 5,000,000   0.654 % 1-month U.S. Dollar LIBOR $ (42,562 )
The Bank of Nova Scotia 09/02/2016 5,000,000 1.258 % 1-month U.S. Dollar LIBOR   (162,914 )
The Bank of Nova Scotia 09/02/2018   5,000,000 1.815 % 1-month U.S. Dollar LIBOR (287,148 )
The Bank of Nova Scotia   09/02/2021   10,000,000       2.381 %   1-month U.S. Dollar LIBOR   (850,045 )
$ 25,000,000 $ (1,342,669 )

The Company is exposed to credit risk on the interest rate swap contracts if the counterparty should fail to perform under the terms of the interest rate swap contracts. The amount of credit risk is limited to the net appreciation of the interest rate swap contracts, if any, as no collateral is pledged by the counterparty. In addition, if the counterparty to the interest rate swap contracts defaults, the Company would incur a loss in the amount of the receivable and would not receive amounts due from the counterparty to offset the interest payments on the Company’s leverage.

The unrealized depreciation of interest rate swap contracts in the amount of $942,103 for the period ended August 31, 2012 is included in the Statement of Operations. Cash settlement payments under the terms of the interest rate swap contracts in the amount of $274,766 are recorded as realized losses for the period ended August 31, 2012. The total notional amount of all open swap agreements at August 31, 2012 is indicative of the volume of this derivative type for the period ended August 31, 2012.

10. Common Stock

The Company has 100,000,000 shares of capital stock authorized and 6,295,750 shares outstanding at August 31, 2012 and November 30, 2011.

11. Subsequent Events

On September 4, 2012, the Company paid a distribution in the amount of $0.39 per common share, for a total of $2,455,343. Of this total, the dividend reinvestment amounted to $138,963.

The Company has performed an evaluation of subsequent events through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that no additional items require recognition or disclosure.

2012 3rd Quarter Report        15





Additional Information (Unaudited)


Director and Officer Compensation

The Company does not compensate any of its directors who are “interested persons,” as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act, nor any of its officers. For the period ended August 31, 2012, the aggregate compensation paid by the Company to the independent directors was $48,750. The Company did not pay any special compensation to any of its directors or officers.

Forward-Looking Statements

This report contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. By their nature, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Several factors that could materially affect the Company’s actual results are the performance of the portfolio of stocks held by it, the conditions in the U.S. and international financial, petroleum and other markets, the price at which shares of the Company will trade in the public markets and other factors discussed in filings with the SEC.

Proxy Voting Policies

A description of the policies and procedures that the Company uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities owned by the Company and information regarding how the Company voted proxies relating to the portfolio of securities during the 12-month period ended June 30, 2012 is available to stockholders (i) without charge, upon request by calling the Company at (913) 981-1020 or toll-free at (866) 362-9331 and on the Company’s Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com; and (ii) on the SEC’s Web site at www.sec.gov.

Form N-Q

The Company files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year with the SEC on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available without charge upon request by calling the Company at (866) 362-9331 or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at www.sec.gov. In addition, you may review and copy the Company’s Form N-Q at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling (800) SEC-0330.

The Company’s Form N-Qs are also available on the Company’s Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.

Statement of Additional Information

The Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Company’s directors and is available upon request without charge by calling the Company at (866) 362-9331 or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at www.sec.gov.

Certifications

The Company’s Chief Executive Officer submitted to the New York Stock Exchange the annual CEO certification as required by Section 303A.12(a) of the NYSE Listed Company Manual.

The Company has filed with the SEC, as an exhibit to its most recently filed Form N-CSR, the certification of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Privacy Policy

In order to conduct its business, the Company collects and maintains certain nonpublic personal information about its stockholders of record with respect to their transactions in shares of the Company’s securities. This information includes the stockholder’s address, tax identification or Social Security number, share balances, and dividend elections. We do not collect or maintain personal information about stockholders whose share balances of our securities are held in “street name” by a financial institution such as a bank or broker.

We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about you, the Company’s other stockholders or the Company’s former stockholders to third parties unless necessary to process a transaction, service an account, or as otherwise permitted by law.

To protect your personal information internally, we restrict access to nonpublic personal information about the Company’s stockholders to those employees who need to know that information to provide services to our stockholders. We also maintain certain other safeguards to protect your nonpublic personal information.

16        Tortoise North American Energy Corp.






Office of the Company and
of the Investment Adviser
Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C.
11550 Ash Street, Suite 300
Leawood, Kan. 66211
(913) 981-1020
(913) 981-1021 (fax)
www.tortoiseadvisors.com

Managing Directors of
Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C.
H. Kevin Birzer
Zachary A. Hamel
Kenneth P. Malvey
Terry Matlack
David J. Schulte
 
Board of Directors of
Tortoise North American Energy Corp.
 
H. Kevin Birzer, Chairman
Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C.
 
Conrad S. Ciccotello
Independent
 
John R. Graham
Independent
 
Charles E. Heath
Independent
 
ADMINISTRATOR
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
615 East Michigan St.
Milwaukee, Wis. 53202
 
CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wis. 53212
 
TRANSFER, DIVIDEND DISBURSING
AND REINVESTMENT AGENT
Computershare Trust Company, N.A. / Computershare Inc.
P.O. Box 43078
Providence, R.I. 02940-3078
(800) 426-5523
www.computershare.com
 
LEGAL COUNSEL
Husch Blackwell LLP
4801 Main St.
Kansas City, Mo. 64112
 
INVESTOR RELATIONS
(866) 362-9331
info@tortoiseadvisors.com
 
STOCK SYMBOL
Listed NYSE Symbol: TYN
 
This report is for stockholder information. This is not a prospectus intended for use in the purchase or sale of fund shares. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and your investment may be worth more or less at the time you sell.

Tortoise Capital Advisors’ Closed-end Funds

  Pureplay MLP Funds       Broader Funds  
  Name Ticker Focus Total Assets (1)
($ in millions)
Name Ticker Focus Total Assets (1)
($ in millions)
Tortoise Energy
Infrastructure Corp.
Midstream Equity $1,749   Tortoise Pipeline &
Energy Fund, Inc.
Pipeline Equity $345
Tortoise Energy
Capital Corp.
Midstream Equity $894 Tortoise Energy
Independence
Fund, Inc.
  North American Upstream Equity $400  
Tortoise MLP
Fund, Inc.
Natural Gas Equity $1,664 Tortoise Power and
Energy Infrastructure
Fund, Inc.

Power & Energy
Infrastructure Debt & Dividend
Paying Equity
$225
Tortoise North
American Energy Corp.

Midstream/Upstream Equity $228

(1) As of 9/30/12





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