FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND - January 31, 2020
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SEMIANNUAL REPORT AND SHAREHOLDER LETTER
FRANKLIN GOLD AND
PRECIOUS METALS FUND
January 31, 2020
Sign up for electronic delivery at franklintempleton.com/edeliveryInternet Delivery of Fund Reports Unless You Request Paper Copies: Effective January 1, 2021, as permitted by the SEC, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request them from the Fund or your financial intermediary. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report. If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. If you have not signed up for electronic delivery, we would encourage you to join fellow shareholders who have. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications electronically from the Fund by calling (800) 632-2301 or by contacting your financial intermediary. You may elect to continue to receive paper copies of all your future shareholder reports free of charge by contacting your financial intermediary or, if you invest directly with a Fund, calling (800) 632-2301 to let the Fund know of your request. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held in your account.
SHAREHOLDER LETTER
Dear Shareholder:
During the six months ended January 31, 2020, global fundamental analysis of securities with a regular emphasis
economic growth moderated amid ongoing U.S.-China trade on investment risk management.
disputes, but interest rate cuts from many central banks and
the easing of trade tensions since mid-December provided a We believe active, professional investment management
boost for equities worldwide. However, in January 2020, the serves investors well. We also recognize the important role
identification of a novel coronavirus outbreak hindered of financial advisors in today’s markets and encourage
stocks, particularly in Asia. The European Central Bank left investors to continue to seek their advice. Amid changing
its headline refinancing rate unchanged during the period but markets and economic conditions, we are confident investors
lowered the deposit rate and restarted its bond-buying with a well-diversified portfolio and a patient, long-term
stimulus program, further supporting stocks. The U.S. outlook should be well positioned for the years ahead.
Federal Reserve (Fed) cut the federal funds target rate twice
Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund’s semiannual report
during the period, lowering it to a range of 1.50%–1.75%.
includes more detail about prevailing conditions and
Stocks responded positively to the supportive economic
discussions about investment decisions during the period.
policy and the Fed indicated that a return to a tighter
Please remember all securities markets fluctuate, as do
monetary policy in 2020 was unlikely given the economic
mutual fund share prices.
climate. In this environment, U.S. stocks, as measured by the
Standard & Poor’s® 500 Index, and global developed market We thank you for investing with Franklin Templeton, welcome
stocks, as measured by the MSCI World Index, ended the your questions and comments, and look forward to serving
period with positive returns. your future investment needs.
Gold reached its 2019 high in September before retreating in Sincerely,
2019’s last quarter as gold exchange-traded funds recorded
modest outflows in the first half of October and remained
muted through year-end. A phase one U.S.-China trade deal
and a better global economy supported investments
generally perceived as riskier in late 2019, curbing gold Edward Perks, CFA
prices despite the U.S. dollar’s decline against most President and Chief Executive Officer –
currencies and an expanding global money supply. However, Investment Management
in January 2020, gold rallied to its highest price level since Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund
April 2013 as investors sought perceived safe haven assets
amid uncertainty about global economic growth, geopolitics
and the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on financial This letter reflects our analysis and opinions as of
markets.1 The Fed’s more accommodative monetary policy January 31, 2020, unless otherwise indicated. The
and lower global bond yields also increased demand for gold information is not a complete analysis of every aspect
and gold-mining equities. In this environment, gold stocks, as of any market, country, industry, security or fund.
measured by the FTSE® Gold Mines Index, posted a total Statements of fact are from sources considered
return of +9.08% for the six-month period.2 reliable.
We are committed to our long-term perspective and
disciplined investment approach as we conduct a rigorous,
CFA® is a trademark owned by CFA Institute.
1. Source: Bloomberg LP. Based on spot prices quoted in U.S. dollars per troy ounce.
2. Source: Morningstar.
See www.franklintempletondatasources.com for additional data provider information.
Not FDIC Insured | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee
franklintempleton.com Not part of the semiannual report 1Contents
Semiannual Report
Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Performance Summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Your Fund’s Expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Financial Highlights and Statement of Investments . . . . . . 11
Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Notes to Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Shareholder Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Visit franklintempleton.com for fund updates, to
access your account, or to find helpful financial
planning tools.
2 Semiannual Report franklintempleton.comSEMIANNUAL REPORT
Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund
This semiannual report for Franklin Gold and Precious Geographic Composition
Metals Fund covers the period ended January 31, 2020. Based on Total Net Assets as of 1/31/20
Your Fund’s Goals and Main Investments Canada 51.3%
The Fund seeks capital appreciation, with current income as
its secondary goal, by investing under normal market Australia 18.7%
conditions at least 80% of its net assets in securities of gold
and precious metals operation companies. The Fund South Africa 15.1%
primarily invests in equity securities, mainly common stock,
and also invests in American, global and European
U.S. 8.1%
depositary receipts.
Performance Overview Egypt 2.7%
The Fund’s Class A shares posted a +14.09% cumulative
total return for the six months under review. In comparison, Other 2.3%
the Fund’s primary benchmark, the sector-specific FTSE
Gold Mines Index, which comprises companies whose Short-Term Investments &
1.8%
Other Net Assets
principal activity is gold mining, posted a +9.08% total
return.1 The Fund’s secondary benchmark, the Standard &
Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500®), which is a broad measure of In the U.S., steady economic growth also supported equities,
U.S. stock performance, posted a +9.31% total return.1 You as healthy consumer spending and a strong labor market
can find the Fund’s long-term performance data in the helped drive the economy. The unemployment rate fell to
Performance Summary beginning on page 8. 3.5% in late 2019, the lowest unemployment rate in
50 years, before ending the period at 3.6%.2 Wages also
Performance data represent past performance, which does grew, albeit at a moderate pace, and inflation remained
not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal historically low despite a slight increase late in the reporting
value will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when
period. Although the consumer sector remained strong,
you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from
some parts of the economy struggled, particularly heavy
figures shown. For most recent month-end performance, go
to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236. industry. Annual industrial production contracted late in the
reporting period, manufacturing output stalled and capital
Economic and Market Overview spending declined.
Global developed and emerging market stocks, as measured The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) provided a substantial boost
by the MSCI All Country World Index, posted strong returns to equity markets as it adopted a more accommodative
during the reporting period. Although global economic monetary policy. The Fed cut the federal funds target rate
growth remained tepid, interest-rate cuts from many central two times during the period, lowering it to a range of
banks and the easing of trade tensions near period-end 1.50%–1.75%. In addition, U.S. government spending also
contributed to the generally positive environment for equities boosted economic growth. Stocks responded positively to
worldwide. However, in January 2020, the novel coronavirus the supportive economic policy, especially the interest-rate
outbreak and investor fears of economic disruption weighed cuts, and the Fed indicated in January that a return to a
on stocks, particularly in Asia.
1. Source: Morningstar.
The indexes are unmanaged and include reinvestment of any income or distributions. They do not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. One cannot invest directly in
an index, and an index is not representative of the Fund’s portfolio.
2. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The dollar value, number of shares or principal amount, and names of all portfolio holdings are listed in the Fund’s Statement of Investments (SOI).
The SOI begins on page 15.
franklintempleton.com Semiannual Report 3FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
tighter monetary policy in 2020 was unlikely given the Precious Metals Sector Overview
economic climate.
After starting the six-month period at $1,414 per ounce, gold
Growth was tepid in the eurozone, particularly in Germany, reached its 2019 peak of $1,553 per ounce in September
the largest economy in the region. Germany, which is heavily before retreating in 2019’s last quarter as gold exchange-
reliant on exports, was adversely affected by the trade traded funds recorded modest outflows in the first half of
conflict between the U.S. and China and the resulting October, reversing the summer’s trend.3 A phase one
slowdown in global trade. Growth also remained persistently U.S.-China trade deal and improvement in global economic
low in Italy, where political uncertainty and a large budget data supported investments generally perceived as riskier in
deficit weighed on the economy. Despite sluggish economic late 2019, keeping gold prices in check despite the additional
conditions, European developed market equities, as lift from the U.S. dollar’s decline against most currencies and
measured by the MSCI Europe Index, posted strong returns an expanding global money supply. A recovery in U.S.
overall, as easing trade tensions buoyed investor optimism Treasury yields also cooled the gold rally through the autumn
and an electoral victory by the U.K. Conservative Party in months. However, in January 2020, gold rallied to its highest
December 2019 alleviated uncertainty surrounding Brexit, price level since April 2013, closing the six-month period up
which subsequently occurred in January 2020. Although the 12.41% to $1,589 per ounce as investors continued to seek
European Central Bank left its headline refinancing rate perceived safe haven assets amid uncertainty about global
unchanged, it lowered the deposit rate and restarted its economic growth, geopolitical conflicts and, most recently,
bond-buying stimulus program, further supporting stocks. the impact of the novel coronavirus outbreak on financial
markets.3 Fed comments indicating the continuation of its
Economic growth in Asia was relatively solid overall, despite accommodative monetary policy and lower bond yields
slowdowns in several large emerging market countries, such around the world also continued to create new demand for
as China and India. Japan’s economy grew amid monetary gold and gold-mining equities, and by period-end, the yield
stimulus from the Bank of Japan and fiscal stimulus from the on the 10-year U.S. Treasury fell to the lowest level since
government. The trade conflict between the U.S. and China October 2019.
was a significant source of volatility for Asian stocks, which
rose and fell in sync with investor sentiment regarding a Among the other major precious metals, platinum, used in
trade deal. A phase one trade agreement reached between catalytic converters for diesel-powered engines, rose
the two countries in December 2019 propelled Asian 11.14%, and silver advanced 10.93% for the six-month
developed and emerging market stocks, although some of period, while palladium soared 50.52%, making it the
these gains were reversed following the outbreak of the period’s best-performing precious metal.3 Palladium
novel coronavirus. Overall, Asian stocks posted strong continued its long run of record highs as demand from the
returns during the period, as measured by the MSCI All automotive sector has been booming as a result of
Country Asia Index. tightening emissions legislation in all major regions
(including India, China, the U.S. and Europe). Many
Emerging market stocks, as measured by the MSCI palladium experts agree there is little chance that supply
Emerging Markets Index, posted modest gains during the conditions will ease, with South Africa indicating in late 2019
period, despite experiencing several sharp selloffs. In a drop in platinum-group metal production. Precious metals,
aggregate, economic growth slowed somewhat but remained in general, were aided in varying degrees by a challenging
relatively solid, although there was some variation among 2020 supply growth as miners around the globe dealt with
individual countries. Many central banks in emerging markets declining metals grades and increased production costs.
cut interest rates throughout the reporting period, which,
along with resilient GDP growth, provided a supportive Investment Strategy
environment for equities. However, emerging market stocks
Gold and precious metals operation companies include
were negatively impacted by the spread of the novel
companies that mine, process, or deal in gold or other
coronavirus near period-end.
precious metals, such as silver, platinum and palladium,
including mining finance and exploration companies as well
as operating companies with long- or medium-life mines. The
Fund may buy securities of gold and precious metals
3. Source: Bloomberg LP. Based on spot prices quoted in U.S. dollars per troy ounce.
4 Semiannual Report franklintempleton.comFRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
Precious Metals Prices (7/31/19–1/31/20)* Portfolio Composition
Based on Total Net Assets as of 1/31/20
$3,000
$2,500 Gold 80.3%
$2,288
$2,000
$1,500 $1,589 Precious Metals & Minerals 11.2%
$1,000 $961
$500 Diversified Metals & Mining 4.0%
$0
7/19 10/19 1/20 Silver 2.4%
Gold Platinum Palladium
Other 0.3%
*Source: Bloomberg LP. Amounts shown are based on spot prices quoted in US
dollars per troy ounce. For illustrative purposes only; not representative of the
Fund’s portfolio composition or performance. Short-Term Investments &
1.8%
Other Net Assets
operation companies located anywhere in the world and
invests predominantly in non-U.S. companies. The Fund may October, B2Gold sold its Nicaragua assets to Calibre Mining
invest in companies without regard to market capitalization, (not a Fund holding) for cash and shares. Near period-end,
and may heavily invest in small- and mid-capitalization B2Gold also announced an increased mineral resource
companies. We look for companies with low-cost reserves estimate for its Fekola mine and positive results from its
and experienced management teams with established track updated preliminary economic assessment for the
records, particularly focusing on companies with long life Gramalote Ridge deposit in Colombia with its joint venture
production profiles, expandable resource bases, and active partner, AngloGold Ashanti.
exploration programs that can potentially drive future reserve
and production growth. Platinum and palladium producer Impala Platinum Holdings
benefited as palladium—a sought-after catalyst component
Manager’s Discussion in pollution-control devices for gasoline-powered cars and
trucks—has maintained its status as the most valuable of
Key contributors to the Fund’s absolute performance during
the four major precious metals since summer, with strong
the six-month period under review included the Fund’s
demand and limited new supply driving prices to new
holdings in Perseus Mining, B2Gold and Impala Platinum
heights. As palladium is often a by-product to platinum or
Holdings.
nickel mining, output tends to lag price gains. Moreover, the
The share price of West African-focused gold miner Perseus amount produced was believed to have fallen short of
Mining increased during the period, continuing the demand for an eighth straight year in 2019, and production is
company’s solid results from earlier in 2019. Perseus slated to trail consumption through 2020 assuming normal
reported December quarter operating results highlighting a auto demand, in our view. Tighter vehicle emissions
5% increase over September quarter gold production, at a regulations, especially in China, are driving greater
slightly higher cost, which was more than offset by higher palladium usage as companies look to exceed increasingly
gold prices. Through the end of December, the company stringent standards.
spent $99 million of the estimated $265 million for the
Detractors from the Fund’s absolute performance during the
Yaoure project in Côte d’Ivoire as Perseus continued to
period under review included the Fund’s holdings in St.
advance its successful transition to a multi-mine,
Barbara, SEMAFO and Newcrest Mining.
multi-jurisdictional gold producer.
Despite investor enthusiasm after Australia-based
Shares of Canada-based B2Gold, a low-cost senior gold
gold-mining company St. Barbara acquired Canada-based
producer, benefited from positive results during the period,
Atlantic Gold in July 2019, St. Barbara’s shares underper-
including record gold production during 2019 that exceeded
formed after the company announced a sharp decline in
company guidance, helped by above-guidance production
fiscal year 2019 earnings compared with the prior year.
from its Fekola (Mali), Masbate (Philippines) and Otjikoto
Reduced production guidance for a second year at St.
(Namibia) mines. Low consolidated costs in 2019 and
positive projections for 2020 also boosted its share price. In
franklintempleton.com Semiannual Report 5FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
Barbara’s Gwalia gold mine in Western Australia also of its Telfer mine in Western Australia and its Gosowong
hindered the stock. mine in Indonesia, and political issues delaying the
development of the Wafi Golpu mine in Papua New Guinea
Top 10 Holdings depressed Newcrest’s stock price.
1/31/20
Company % of Total Although gold equites have delivered strong results and
Sector/Industry, Country Net Assets outperformed physical gold’s price over the past six months,
B2Gold Corp. 7.1%
our analysis shows many gold companies have maintained a
Gold, Canada focus on improving the cost structure of their operations,
debt repayment and asset rationalization, which we believe
Barrick Gold Corp. 5.8%
Gold, Canada has improved the outlook going forward. In addition, we
believe small- and mid-capitalization gold equities may
AngloGold Ashanti Ltd. 4.8%
Gold, South Africa present some of the best investment opportunities given
their generally lower valuation multiples and the industry’s
Perseus Mining Ltd. 4.7%
Gold, Australia recent uptick in merger and acquisition activity, which is
receiving a boost as mining companies seek to replenish
Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd. 4.3%
Precious Metals & Minerals, South Africa their resources following several years of limited exploration
and development activity.
Newcrest Mining Ltd. 4.2%
Gold, Australia
Thank you for your continued participation in Franklin Gold
Newmont Corp. 4.1% and Precious Metals Fund. We look forward to serving your
Gold, U.S.
future investment needs.
Alamos Gold Inc. 4.1%
Gold, Canada
Agnico EagleMines Ltd. 2.9%
Gold, Canada
Centerra Gold Inc. 2.8%
Gold, Canada
SEMAFO is a Canada-based mining company with gold
production and exploration activities in West Africa, including Stephen M. Land, CFA
Burkino Faso, Niger and Guinea. After solid second-quarter
2019 results, shares of SEMAFO declined due in part to a
pit wall failure in the northern portion of the Wona pit at its
Mana mine in Burkina Faso during August 2019 that limited
gold production at the mine. However, SEMAFO’s shares
plunged in November after insurgents in Burkino Faso
attacked five buses transporting workers from their Boungo
mine, killing 37 and injuring over 60 people. In response, Frederick G. Fromm, CFA
SEMAFO halted operations at the company’s new flagship
mine through period-end.
Portfolio Management Team
Newcrest Mining is an Australia-based gold mining
exploration and production company that operates in
Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. Newcrest began the
period with investor optimism about significant profits, debt
reduction and a recent joint venture with Imperial Metals (not
a Fund holding), a Canada-based metals and mining
company, to operate the Red Chris gold-copper mine in
British Columbia. However, the impending decline of gold
grades at Newcrest’s top-performing Cadia mine in New
South Wales, Australia, concerns around the limited mine life
6 Semiannual Report franklintempleton.comFRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND The foregoing information reflects our analysis, opinions and portfolio holdings as of January 31, 2020, the end of the reporting period. The way we implement our main investment strategies and the resulting portfolio holdings may change depending on factors such as market and economic conditions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice or an offer for a particular security. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any market, country, industry, security or the Fund. Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable, but the investment manager makes no representation or warranty as to their completeness or accuracy. Although historical performance is no guarantee of future results, these insights may help you understand our investment management philosophy. franklintempleton.com Semiannual Report 7
FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
Performance Summary as of January 31, 2020
The performance table does not reflect any taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends, capital gain distributions, if
any, or any realized gains on the sale of Fund shares. Total return reflects reinvestment of the Fund’s dividends and capital
gain distributions, if any, and any unrealized gains or losses. Your dividend income will vary depending on dividends or interest
paid by securities in the Fund’s portfolio, adjusted for operating expenses of each class. Capital gain distributions are net
profits realized from the sale of portfolio securities.
Performance as of 1/31/201
Cumulative total return excludes sales charges. Average annual total return includes maximum sales charges. Sales charges
will vary depending on the size of the investment and the class of share purchased. The maximum is 5.50% and the minimum
is 0%. Class A: 5.50% maximum initial sales charge; Advisor Class: no sales charges. For other share classes, visit
franklintempleton.com.
Cumulative Average Annual
Share Class Total Return2 Total Return3
A4
6-Month +14.09% +7.82%
1-Year +34.11% +26.70%
5-Year +34.86% +4.96%
10-Year -27.04% -3.65%
Advisor
6-Month +14.27% +14.27%
1-Year +34.44% +34.44%
5-Year +36.58% +6.43%
10-Year -25.18% -2.86%
Performance data represent past performance, which does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value
will fluctuate, and you may have a gain or loss when you sell your shares. Current performance may differ from figures shown.
For most recent month-end performance, go to franklintempleton.com or call (800) 342-5236.
See page 9 for Performance Summary footnotes.
8 Semiannual Report franklintempleton.comFRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
Total Annual Operating Expenses5
With Fee Without Fee
Share Class Waiver Waiver
A 0.98% 0.98%
Advisor 0.73% 0.73%
Each class of shares is available to certain eligible investors and has different annual fees and expenses, as described in the prospectus.
All investments involve risks, including possible loss of principal. The Fund concentrates in the precious metals sector, which involves fluctuations in the prices
of gold and other precious metals and increased susceptibility to adverse economic and regulatory developments affecting the sector. In times of stable
economic growth, traditional equity and debt investments could offer greater appreciation potential and the prices of gold and other precious metals may be
adversely affected. In addition, the Fund is subject to the risks of currency fluctuation and political uncertainty associated with foreign (non-U.S.) investing.
Investments in emerging and frontier markets involve heightened risks related to the same factors, in addition to those associated with their relatively small size
and lesser liquidity. The Fund may also heavily invest in smaller companies, which can be particularly sensitive to changing economic conditions, and their
prospects for growth are less certain than those of larger, more established companies. Investing in a non-diversified fund involves the risk of greater price
fluctuation than a more diversified portfolio. Unexpected events and their aftermaths, such as the spread of deadly diseases; natural, environmental or man-made
disasters; financial, political or social disruptions; terrorism and war; and other tragedies or catastrophes, can cause investor fear and panic, which can adversely
affect the economies of many companies, sectors, nations, regions and the market in general, in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen. The Fund’s prospectus
also includes a description of the main investment risks.
1. The Fund has a fee waiver associated with any investment it makes in a Franklin Templeton money fund and/or other Franklin Templeton fund, contractually guaranteed
through 11/30/20. Fund investment results reflect the fee waiver; without this waiver, the results would have been lower.
2. Cumulative total return represents the change in value of an investment over the periods indicated.
3. Average annual total return represents the average annual change in value of an investment over the periods indicated. Return for less than one year, if any, has not been
annualized.
4. Prior to 9/10/18 these shares were offered at a higher initial sales charge of 5.75%, thus actual returns (with sales charges) would have differed. Average annual total
returns (with sales charges) have been restated to reflect the current maximum initial sales charge of 5.50%.
5. Figures are as stated in the Fund’s current prospectus and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Your Fund’s Expenses and Financial Highlights sections in
this report. In periods of market volatility, assets may decline significantly, causing total annual Fund operating expenses to become higher than the figures shown.
franklintempleton.com Semiannual Report 9FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
Your Fund’s Expenses
As a Fund shareholder, you can incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on Fund
purchases and redemptions; and (2) ongoing Fund costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees,
and other Fund expenses. All mutual funds have ongoing costs, sometimes referred to as operating expenses. The table below
shows ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and can help you understand these costs and compare them with those of other
mutual funds. The table assumes a $1,000 investment held for the six months indicated.
Actual Fund Expenses
The table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses in the columns under the heading
“Actual.” In these columns the Fund’s actual return, which includes the effect of Fund expenses, is used to calculate the
“Ending Account Value” for each class of shares. You can estimate the expenses you paid during the period by following these
steps (of course, your account value and expenses will differ from those in this illustration): Divide your account value by
$1,000 (if your account had an $8,600 value, then $8,600 ÷ $1,000 = 8.6). Then multiply the result by the number in the row
for your class of shares under the headings “Actual” and “Expenses Paid During Period” (if Actual Expenses Paid During
Period were $7.50, then 8.6 x $7.50 = $64.50). In this illustration, the actual expenses paid this period are $64.50.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison with Other Funds
Under the heading “Hypothetical” in the table, information is provided about hypothetical account values and hypothetical
expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is
not the Fund’s actual return. This information may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you
paid for the period, but it can help you compare ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with those of other funds. To do so,
compare this 5% hypothetical example for the class of shares you hold with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the
shareholder reports of other funds.
Please note that expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight ongoing costs and do not reflect any transactional costs.
Therefore, information under the heading “Hypothetical” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you
compare total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if transactional costs were included, your total costs would have
been higher.
Actual Hypothetical
(actual return after expenses) (5% annual return before expenses)
Expenses Expenses Net
Beginning Ending Paid During Ending Paid During Annualized
Share Account Account Period Account Period Expense
Class Value 8/1/19 Value 1/31/20 8/1/19–1/31/201, 2 Value 1/31/20 8/1/19–1/31/201, 2 Ratio2
A $1,000 $1,140.90 $5.06 $1,020.41 $4.77 0.94%
C $1,000 $1,137.10 $9.08 $1,016.64 $8.57 1.69%
R6 $1,000 $1,143.60 $3.07 $1,022.27 $2.90 0.57%
Advisor $1,000 $1,142.70 $3.72 $1,021.67 $3.51 0.69%
1. Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the six-month period as indicated above—in the far right column—multiplied by the simple average account value
over the period indicated, and then multiplied by 184/366 to reflect the one-half year period.
2. Reflects expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements. Does not include acquired fund fees and expenses.
10 Semiannual Report franklintempleton.comFRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
Financial Highlights
Six Months Ended
January 31, 2020 Year Ended July 31,
(unaudited) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Class A
Per share operating performance
(for a share outstanding throughout the period)
Net asset value, beginning of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $16.68 $13.56 $16.19 $24.06 $11.63 $20.27
Income from investment operationsa:
Net investment income (loss)b . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0.03) (0.02) (0.06) (0.04) (0.09) (0.05)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) . . . . . . . . 2.38 3.14 (2.51) (6.45) 12.52 (8.43)
Total from investment operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.35 3.12 (2.57) (6.49) 12.43 (8.48)
Less distributions from:
Net investment income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . — — (0.06) (1.38) — (0.16)
Net asset value, end of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $19.03 $16.68 $13.56 $16.19 $24.06 $11.63
Total returnc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14.09% 23.01% (15.92)% (26.85)% 106.88% (42.02)%
Ratios to average net assetsd
Expensese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.94%f 0.98%f 1.02%f 0.98%f 1.11% 1.09%f
Net investment income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0.39)% (0.15)% (0.37)% (0.24)% (0.57)% (0.35)%
Supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000’s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $721,862 $645,108 $587,294 $776,677 $988,701 $444,295
Portfolio turnover rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.41% 12.82% 8.36% 13.99% 16.76% 12.52%
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and
repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable, and is not annualized for periods less than one year.
dRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
eBenefit of waiver and payments by affiliates rounds to less than 0.01%.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
franklintempleton.com The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Semiannual Report 11FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Six Months Ended
January 31, 2020 Year Ended July 31,
(unaudited) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Class C
Per share operating performance
(for a share outstanding throughout the period)
Net asset value, beginning of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15.24 $12.49 $14.96 $22.39 $10.90 $18.97
Income from investment operationsa:
Net investment income (loss)b . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0.09) (0.11) (0.15) (0.17) (0.18) (0.16)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) . . . . . . . . 2.18 2.86 (2.32) (5.99) 11.67 (7.89)
Total from investment operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.09 2.75 (2.47) (6.16) 11.49 (8.05)
Less distributions from:
Net investment income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . — — — (1.27) — (0.02)
Net asset value, end of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $17.33 $15.24 $12.49 $14.96 $22.39 $10.90
Total returnc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.71% 22.02% (16.51)% (27.41)% 105.41% (42.45)%
Ratios to average net assetsd
Expensese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.69%f 1.73%f 1.77%f 1.73%f 1.86% 1.84%f
Net investment income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1.14)% (0.90)% (1.12)% (0.99)% (1.32)% (1.10)%
Supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000’s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $81,435 $75,129 $94,997 $137,487 $200,179 $97,483
Portfolio turnover rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.41% 12.82% 8.36% 13.99% 16.76% 12.52%
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and
repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cTotal return does not reflect sales commissions or contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable, and is not annualized for periods less than one year.
dRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
eBenefit of waiver and payments by affiliates rounds to less than 0.01%.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
12 Semiannual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.comFRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Six Months Ended
January 31, 2020 Year Ended July 31,
(unaudited) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Class R6
Per share operating performance
(for a share outstanding throughout the period)
Net asset value, beginning of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $17.90 $14.50 $17.31 $25.58 $12.29 $21.44
Income from investment operationsa:
Net investment income (loss)b . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (—)c 0.04 0.01 0.04 (0.01) 0.03
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) . . . . . . . . 2.57 3.36 (2.68) (6.87) 13.30 (8.93)
Total from investment operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.57 3.40 (2.67) (6.83) 13.29 (8.90)
Less distributions from:
Net investment income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . — — (0.14) (1.44) — (0.25)
Net asset value, end of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20.47 $17.90 $14.50 $17.31 $25.58 $12.29
Total returnd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14.36% 23.45% (15.50)% (26.53)% 108.14% (41.74)%
Ratios to average net assetse
Expenses before waiver and payments by affiliates. . . . 0.71% 0.83% 0.79% 0.57% 0.63% 0.62%
Expenses net of waiver and payments by affiliates . . . . 0.57%f 0.58%f 0.55%f 0.52%f 0.59% 0.55%f
Net investment income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0.02)% 0.25% 0.10% 0.21% (0.05)% 0.19%
Supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000’s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $12,498 $10,808 $8,153 $4,635 $3,764 $1,188
Portfolio turnover rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.41% 12.82% 8.36% 13.99% 16.76% 12.52%
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and
repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cAmount rounds to less than $0.01 per share.
dTotal return is not annualized for periods less than one year.
eRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
fBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
franklintempleton.com The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. | Semiannual Report 13FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Six Months Ended
January 31, 2020 Year Ended July 31,
(unaudited) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Advisor Class
Per share operating performance
(for a share outstanding throughout the period)
Net asset value, beginning of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $17.73 $14.38 $17.17 $25.38 $12.23 $21.32
Income from investment operationsa:
Net investment income (loss)b . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0.01) 0.01 (0.02) —c (0.05) (0.02)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) . . . . . . . . 2.54 3.34 (2.67) (6.81) 13.20 (8.87)
Total from investment operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.53 3.35 (2.69) (6.81) 13.15 (8.89)
Less distributions from:
Net investment income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . — — (0.10) (1.40) — (0.20)
Net asset value, end of period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20.26 $17.73 $14.38 $17.17 $25.38 $12.23
Total returnd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14.27% 23.30% (15.70)% (26.69)% 107.52% (41.90)%
Ratios to average net assetse
Expensesf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.69%g 0.73%g 0.77%g 0.73%g 0.86% 0.84%g
Net investment income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0.14)% 0.10% (0.12)% 0.01% (0.32)% (0.10)%
Supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000’s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $175,947 $143,589 $130,812 $164,253 $207,574 $90,628
Portfolio turnover rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.41% 12.82% 8.36% 13.99% 16.76% 12.52%
aThe amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the period may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the period due to the timing of sales and
repurchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to income earned and/or fluctuating fair value of the investments of the Fund.
bBased on average daily shares outstanding.
cAmount rounds to less than $0.01 per share.
dTotal return is not annualized for periods less than one year.
eRatios are annualized for periods less than one year.
fBenefit of waiver and payments by affiliates rounds to less than 0.01%.
gBenefit of expense reduction rounds to less than 0.01%.
14 Semiannual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.comFRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
Statement of Investments, January 31, 2020 (unaudited)
Shares/
Rights/
Country Warrants Value
Common Stocks and Other Equity Interests 98.0%
Copper 0.3%
a
Imperial Metals Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,950,300 $ 2,844,034
Diversified Metals & Mining 4.0%
a
Adventus Mining Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 5,000,000 3,324,518
a,b
Bluestone Resources Inc., 144A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,500,000 3,305,629
a,c,d
Bluestone Resources Inc., wts., 3/19/21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 550,000 149,938
a,e
Geopacific Resources Ltd.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 13,001,094 4,116,167
a,b
INV Metals Inc., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 6,565,000 1,661,712
a,b
Ivanhoe Mines Ltd., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 5,735,000 14,819,569
a
Ivanhoe Mines Ltd., A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 575,800 1,487,900
a,c,e
Nautilus Minerals Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 9,222,015 —
a,c,d,e
Nautilus Minerals Inc., 144A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 28,535,816 —
a
Orla Mining Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 4,770,713 9,191,778
a,c
Orla Mining Ltd., wts., 2/15/21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 460,000 206,341
a
Pantoro Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 15,400,000 1,030,802
39,294,354
Gold 80.3%
Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (CAD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 317,797 19,641,703
Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (USD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 150,000 9,273,000
a
Alacer Gold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United States 4,242,500 19,938,307
a,b
Alacer Gold Corp., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United States 1,500,000 7,049,490
Alamos Gold Inc., A (CAD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 4,038,316 25,477,853
Alamos Gold Inc., A (USD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,354,500 14,833,350
AngloGold Ashanti Ltd., ADR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 2,349,823 47,842,396
a
Asanko Gold Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 10,803,375 10,121,787
a
Ascot Resources Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 7,500,000 4,250,094
a,c,d
Ascot Resources Ltd., wts., 5/21/20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 5,000,000 283,011
B2Gold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 16,138,694 69,871,339
Barrick Gold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 3,089,383 57,215,373
a
Belo Sun Mining Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 3,500,000 1,375,142
a,b
Belo Sun Mining Corp., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 3,800,000 1,493,011
Centamin PLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Egypt 15,015,200 26,924,135
a
Centerra Gold Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 590,700 4,730,956
a,b
Centerra Gold Inc., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,893,400 23,173,434
a,e
Chalice Gold Mines Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 31,072,008 5,724,486
a,b
Continental Gold Inc., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,000,000 4,132,981
a
Corvus Gold Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,000,000 3,218,738
a
Dacian Gold Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 6,245,412 5,989,989
a
Detour Gold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,096,300 19,631,515
a
Eldorado Gold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,853,724 20,742,595
a
Emerald Resources NL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 71,898,840 2,358,149
a
Endeavour Mining Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,160,000 23,752,172
a,c
Gascoyne Resources Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 23,023,100 300,505
a
Gold Standard Ventures Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,870,000 1,469,437
a
Golden Star Resources Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United States 4,129,533 12,140,827
a
Great Panther Mining Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 9,171,889 5,824,149
a,e
Guyana Goldfields Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 9,655,100 5,179,540
a,b,e
Guyana Goldfields Inc., 144A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 6,220,000 3,336,758
franklintempleton.com Semiannual Report 15FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Shares/
Rights/
Country Warrants Value
Common Stocks and Other Equity Interests (continued)
Gold (continued)
a,c,d,e
HighGold Mining Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 3,840,000 $ 3,295,141
a
IAMGOLD Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,600,500 7,697,480
a
Integra Resources Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 5,300,000 5,285,984
a
Liberty Gold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 10,272,200 9,934,579
a,c,d,e
Lion One Metals Ltd.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,089,000 1,300,514
a,e
Lion One Metals Ltd.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 4,500,000 5,848,130
a,b,e
Lion One Metals Ltd., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,935,000 3,814,280
a,c,d,e
Lion One Metals Ltd., wts., 4/06/21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,089,000 412,272
a,c
Lydian International Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 6,375,000 36,126
a,c,d
Lydian International Ltd., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 25,250,000 143,087
a
Midas Gold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 4,020,900 1,822,849
a,b
Midas Gold Corp., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 4,030,000 1,826,974
Newcrest Mining Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 2,061,439 41,266,986
Newmont Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United States 907,614 40,897,087
Northern Star Resources Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 903,106 7,778,912
OceanaGold Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 9,088,488 19,021,618
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 275,000 2,742,728
a,e
Perseus Mining Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 58,759,901 46,738,311
a
Pretium Resources Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,084,000 22,690,170
a,e
Red 5 Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 117,268,146 24,063,426
a,e
RTG Mining Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 1,769,918 110,327
a,b,e
RTG Mining Inc., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 2,397,790 149,466
a,e
RTG Mining Inc., IDR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 41,087,582 2,337,668
a,c,d,e
Rubicon Minerals Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,330,000 1,113,471
a,e
Rubicon Minerals Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 6,038,900 5,247,250
a
SEMAFO Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,829,200 5,964,086
b,f
Shandong Gold Mining Co. Ltd., 144A, Reg S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . China 2,500,000 6,104,432
a,c,d
Skeena Resources Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 4,150,000 2,891,849
a
SolGold PLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 14,650,000 3,763,506
a
St. Augustine Gold and Copper Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Philippines 8,136,836 107,589
a,b
St. Augustine Gold and Copper Ltd., 144A, (CAD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Philippines 16,383,333 216,629
a,b
St. Augustine Gold and Copper Ltd., 144A, (USD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Philippines 10,000,000 132,225
St. Barbara Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 9,508,021 17,722,342
a
Teranga Gold Corp.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,357,751 7,724,870
a
Teranga Gold Corp., SCR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,970,000 11,089,158
a
TMAC Resources Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 510,000 1,017,303
a
Torex Gold Resources Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 252,000 3,467,693
a,b
Torex Gold Resources Inc., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,450,000 19,950,510
a
West African Resources Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia 9,450,000 3,024,207
796,047,457
Precious Metals & Minerals 11.0%
Anglo American Platinum Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 277,656 22,198,267
a
Eastern Platinum Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 2,592,102 851,956
Fresnillo PLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United Kingdom 1,120,000 9,798,852
a
Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 3,065,000 28,906,711
a
Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd., ADR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 1,506,100 14,315,481
a
Northam Platinum Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 1,259,019 10,547,384
16 Semiannual Report franklintempleton.comFRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Shares/
Rights/
Country Warrants Value
Common Stocks and Other Equity Interests (continued)
Precious Metals & Minerals (continued)
a,e
Platinum Group Metals Ltd. (CAD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 2,252,787 $ 4,970,260
a,e
Platinum Group Metals Ltd. (USD Traded) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 4,687,673 10,219,127
a,b,e
Platinum Group Metals Ltd., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 134,388 296,496
a
Royal Bafokeng Platinum Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa 2,193,527 7,601,067
109,705,601
Silver 2.4%
Hochschild Mining PLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peru 3,268,520 7,260,614
a
MAG Silver Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 612,000 6,667,956
a,b
MAG Silver Corp., 144A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 240,000 2,614,885
Pan American Silver Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 255,021 5,861,533
a
Pan American Silver Corp., rts., 2/20/49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada 1,850,600 1,221,396
23,626,384
Total Common Stocks and Other Equity Interests
(Cost $873,317,438) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 971,517,830
Principal
Amount*
Convertible Bonds (Cost $3,000,000) 0.2%
Precious Metals & Minerals 0.2%
e
Platinum Group Metals Ltd., cvt., 6.875%, 7/01/22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Africa $ 3,000,000 2,400,000
Total Investments before Short Term Investments
(Cost $876,317,438) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 973,917,830
Shares
Short Term Investments (Cost $14,967,704) 1.5%
Money Market Funds 1.5%
g,h
Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio, 1.21% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United States 14,967,704 14,967,704
Total Investments (Cost $891,285,142) 99.7% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 988,885,534
Other Assets, less Liabilities 0.3% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,856,996
Net Assets 100.0% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $991,742,530
franklintempleton.com Semiannual Report 17FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED) See Abbreviations on page 32. *The principal amount is stated in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated. aNon-income producing. bSecurity was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be sold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers or in a public offering registered under the Securities Act of 1933. At January 31, 2020, the aggregate value of these securities was $94,078,481, representing 9.5% of net assets. cFair valued using significant unobservable inputs. See Note 11 regarding fair value measurements. dSee Note 8 regarding restricted securities. eSee Note 9 regarding holdings of 5% voting securities. fSecurity was purchased pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside of the United States. Such a security cannot be sold in the United States without either an effective registration statement filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, or pursuant to an exemption from registration. At January 31, 2020, the value of this security was $6,104,432, representing 0.6% of net assets. gSee Note 3(f) regarding investments in affiliated management investment companies. hThe rate shown is the annualized seven-day effective yield at period end. 18 Semiannual Report | The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. franklintempleton.com
FRANKLIN GOLD AND PRECIOUS METALS FUND
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
January 31, 2020 (unaudited)
Assets:
Investments in securities:
Cost - Unaffiliated issuers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 641,944,331
Cost - Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f and 9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249,340,811
Value - Unaffiliated issuers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................................... $ 843,244,740
Value - Non-controlled affiliates (Note 3f and 9) ................................................... 145,640,794
Receivables:
Investment securities sold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,084,718
Capital shares sold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,076,959
Dividends and interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17,015
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 995,064,244
Liabilities:
Payables:
Investment securities purchased . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 344,647
Capital shares redeemed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,943,271
Management fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 388,042
Distribution fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221,477
Transfer agent fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239,466
Accrued expenses and other liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184,811
Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,321,714
Net assets, at value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 991,742,530
Net assets consist of:
Paid-in capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,660,485,462
Total distributable earnings (losses) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (668,742,932)
Net assets, at value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 991,742,530
Class A:
Net assets, at value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 721,862,286
Shares outstanding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... 37,924,331
Net asset value per sharea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... $19.03
Maximum offering price per share (net asset value per share ÷ 94.50%) ................................... $20.14
Class C:
Net assets, at value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... $ 81,434,780
Shares outstanding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... 4,699,304
Net asset value and maximum offering price per sharea . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... $17.33
Class R6:
Net assets, at value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... $ 12,498,261
Shares outstanding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... 610,505
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... $20.47
Advisor Class:
Net assets, at value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... $ 175,947,203
Shares outstanding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... 8,682,809
Net asset value and maximum offering price per share . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................... $20.26
aRedemption price is equal to net asset value less contingent deferred sales charges, if applicable.
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