mex_ncsr.htm

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 9, 2007



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM N-CSR

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES




Investment Company Act file number 811-06111



The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)



615 E. Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)



Mr. Gerald Hellerman
c/o U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
615 E. Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(Name and address of agent for service)



(866) 700-6104
Registrant's telephone number, including area code



Date of fiscal year end: July 31, 2007



Date of reporting period:  July 31, 2007

 
Item 1. Report to Stockholders.
 
 
 

The Mexico Equity and Income Fund Inc.
Report of Pichardo Asset Management,
The Investment Adviser.


Dear Fund Shareholder,

We are pleased to present you with the Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. ‘‘MXE’’ annual report for the Fund’s fiscal year ended July 31, 2007.



I.
INTRODUCTION

President Felipe Calderon presented a broad series of initiatives comprising the 2007-2012 National Development Plan (NDP) early in 2007. The main axis of President Calderon’s NDP is sustainable human development, which is defined as an ongoing and sustained process that broadens the capacities, opportunities and freedom of all Mexicans. In order to progress in that direction President Calderon included a Fiscal Reform in the NDP. It is an in-depth reform that covers all aspects of Public Finances and establishes a modern platform for meeting challenges associated with the sustainable course of Mexico’s development in the coming decades.

By September 2007, the 18-year-long-awaited fiscal reform was finally approved by Congress. The proposal does not change the current Value Added Tax regime or rates. It assumes the difficult challenge of broadening the tax base by establishing, among others, a flat business contribution tax of 16.5% in 2008, 17% in 2009 and 17.5% starting the year 2010, aimed at reducing tax evasion, elusion and fiscal privileges.

Fiscal reform will contribute US$10.4 billion per annum in additional revenue for the government, or around 1.1% of GDP, which will be on top of the US$217 billion already approved in the 2008 budget.

By the end of the 2012 year, fiscal reform is expected to boost the country’s tax intake to 2.5% of annual GDP, according to Mexico’s Finance Minister, Agustin Carstens. Tax revenue currently accounts for 10.2% of GDP and is the lowest in Latin America.

The National Development Plan also states the need for Mexico’s Public Finance Ministry to reduce its dependence on oil revenue. Over a 20-year period, Mexico must replace oil revenue equivalent to 10% of GDP and reduce government’s 33% oil revenue dependence.



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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.


This NDP also proposes the initiative of a National Infrastructure Program spanning several years to be approved within the Federal Budget. President Calderon’s National Infrastructure Program envisions a US$270 billion investment in infrastructure, including private and public investment for the period 2007-2012. The Calderon government sees investing in infrastructure as tantamount to building a better Mexico and the program includes: (i) US$76 bn in hydrocarbon production, (ii) US$35 bn in electricity, (iii) US$35 bn in refining, gas and petrochemicals, (iv) US$26 bn in highways, (v) US$26 bn in communications, (vi) US$14 bn in drinking water and conveyance rehabilitation, (vii) US$7 bn in ports, (viii) US$5 bn in airports, (vix) US$5 bn in railroads and multimodal transport, and (ix) US$5 bn in hydro agriculture and flood control.

Over the long term, fiscal reform, as part of the NDP, is set to have a positive impact on the Mexican economy which President Calderon’s government estimates will grow at an average rate of 5% during the period 2007-2012 (2.5% for the period 2001-2006 and 3.0% for the period 1995-2000).

The Mexican Stock Exchange, the ‘‘Mexbol’’’s 35.5% average per annum dollar return for the five-year period ended July 31, 2007, is the result of a positive cycle of globally low interest rates and robust world economic growth as well as company EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) growth of more than 15% on average. Mexico’s US$ 80 bn pension fund system has also become a solid institutional player in the Mexican Stock Exchange (US$10 bn in 1996).

The MXE registered a 91.13% dollar return for the Fund’s fiscal year ended July 31, 2007, as reported by Bloomberg and an average per annum net asset value per share return of 18.82% (with dividends reinvested) for shareholders over the seventeen years since inception through July 31, 2007, as reported by Thomson.

The MXE’s investment criteria and stock picking during the Fund’s fiscal year, ended July 31, 2007 was consistent with its investment strategy and four main policies set up in 2006 for the following two-year period. The Fund continues to be highly diversified in value and growth stocks with a sector overweight in infrastructure, communications and industrial conglomerates.




II.
MEXICO’S ECONOMIC REVIEW

Mexico registered a 2.8% year-over-year economic growth during the second quarter 2007 compared to 4.9% for the same period in 2006 due to a sharp decrease in government spending and exports.

During the first half of the Fund’s fiscal year, economic growth was underpinned by high credit growth rates in housing and consumption while the second half saw growth soften, due to a slowdown in manufacturing activity and consumer spending.

 
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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.


External and internal demand followed a decelerating pattern during the second half of the Fund’s period where total exports amounted to US$67.6 bn at the second quarter 2007, or a 3.6% growth rate; and, imports grew 7.5% to US$70 bn compared to 10.7% and 12.9% growth, respectively, for the same period in 2006. Mexico’s US$ trade deficit stood at US$5.8 bn since the beginning of the year compared to a US$ 223 million surplus for the same period in 2006. For the 2Q’07, private consumption grew 4.6%, while consumer credit registered a 28.7% growth rate at the end of May 2007. Gross fixed investment increased by 6.9% in 2Q’07, mostly stemming from spending on machinery and equipment.

For the period January to August 614,607 new jobs were created. A total of 745,000 new jobs are expected to be created in 2007, or 15% below the 880,000 jobs that were created in the 2006 calendar year. Likewise, the 6.9% same-store-sales 2Q’06 growth registered by Walmex Mexico (majority-owned Walmart US subsidiary) compared to the +0.9% 2Q’07 growth reflects the slowdown in domestic consumption. Walmex has a 50% share of total retail sales in Mexico.

The solid macro context registers a 4.03% consumer price index for the last twelve months ended August 2007, compared to 4.1% same period last year.

In congruence with its tightening stance, Mexico’s Central Bank kept the overnight rate at 7.20% for the fund’s fiscal year contributing to a strong currency during the period (a -0.20% depreciation vs. the US dollar).

Inflows of remittances from Mexican workers abroad amounted to US$ 13.6 bn for the period January-July 2007, oil exports US$ 22.6 bn, while non-oil exports amounted to US$127.9 bn. Tourism flows amounted to US$7.9 bn which translated into accumulated international reserves of around US$ 78.2 bn at the end of August compared to US$71.5 bn at the end of December 2006.




III.
THE MEXICAN STOCK EXCHANGE

For the Fund’s fiscal year period ending July 31, 2007, the Mexbol Index gained 52.72% in dollar terms and it seems fairly valued given sales, operating income and EBITDA growth of 10.9%, 13.5% and 12.9% year-over-year, respectively, as of the second quarter of 2007.

At the beginning of the second half of 2007 volatility in global markets increased due to serious problems in the U.S. sub-prime mortgage market.

In terms of valuation, the Mexbol Index’s EV/EBITDA multiple ended August at 9.3 times, or 1% and 18% above its one and four-year averages, respectively.



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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



 
IV.
THE FUND’S PERFORMANCE

For the Fund’s fiscal year July 31 2007, the MXE’s net asset value per share gained 91.13% in dollar terms, out performing the Mexbol Index’s 52.72% gain by 3,841 basis points and the Mexico Fund’s 47.85% net asset value per share gain by 4,333 basis points (Bloomberg figures). The main contributors to the Fund’s superior return were its investment in infrastructure, petrochemical, wireless telephony and materials-related securities.

The MXE’s one-year market value common stock return was 152.78% and one-year market value return for the preferred shares was 110.66% (source: US Bancorp). The Fund’s market price registered a 15.8% premium to its net asset value at the end of the Fund’s fiscal year ended July 31, 2007, according to Bloomberg.

The MXE’s net asset value per share registered a $40.75 high and $ 32.80 low during the months of July and August 2007 owing to the demise of the U.S. sub-mortgage sector.



 
V.
PORTFOLIO STRATEGY

The MXE’s portfolio investment strategy set up in 2006 for a two-year period, based on Pichardo Asset Management’s asset category classification remained unchanged and it was used to monitor the Fund’s investment criteria with a discipline and consistency in accordance with the Fund’s main policies.

As at the end of July 31, 2007, infrastructure remained the Fund’s largest asset category followed by communications and industrial conglomerates.

The MXE will continue to adhere to its investment strategy, which includes a diversified portfolio comprising both value and growth stocks with an emphasis on those promising business sectors PAM believes will grow at rates above those of Mexican GDP.

We will also remain disciplined in terms of the Fund’s main investment principles for the benefit of long-term stockholders.



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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.
 

 

 
 
ECONOMIC INFORMATION

Real Activity
 
1999
   
2000
   
2001
   
2002
   
2003
   
2004
   
2005
   
2006
 
                                                 
Real GDP Growth (y-o-y)
    3.70 %     6.60 %     (0.30 )%     0.90 %     1.30 %     4.40 %     3.00 %     4.80 %
Industrial Production (y-o-y)
    4.20 %     6.00 %     (3.50 )%     0.00 %     (0.75 )%     3.80 %     1.60 %     1.60 %
Trade Balance (US Billions)
  $ (5.60 )   $ (8.00 )   $
10.00
    $ (8.00 )   $ (5.60 )   $ (8.10 )   $ (7.60 )   $ (6.10 )
Exports (US Billions)
  $
136.40
    $
166.50
    $
158.40
    $
160.70
    $
164.80
    $
189.10
    $
213.70
    $
253.90
 
Exports Growth (y-o-y)
    16.10 %     22.10 %     (4.90 )%     1.50 %     2.50 %     14.70 %     14.00 %     10.30 %
Imports (US Billions)
  $
142.00
    $
174.50
    $
168.40
    $
168.70
    $
170.50
    $
197.20
    $
221.30
    $
260.00
 
Imports Growth (y-o-y)
    13.20 %     22.90 %     (3.50 )%     0.20 %     1.10 %     15.70 %     12.00 %     13.10 %
                                                                 

Financial Variables and Prices
 
1999
   
2000
   
2001
   
2002
   
2003
   
2004
   
2005
   
2006
 
                                                 
28-Day CETES (T-bills)/
                                               
Average
    31.40 %     15.30 %     11.20 %     7.10 %     6.24 %     8.60 %     8.02 %     7.10 %
Exchange rate (Pesos/US$)
                                                               
Average
   
9.56
     
9.46
     
9.34
     
9.66
     
10.79
     
11.15
     
10.64
     
10.9
 
Inflation IPC, 12 month
                                                               
trailing
    12.30 %     9.00 %     4.40 %     5.70 %     4.00 %     5.20 %     3.30 %     3.80 %
                                                                 

Mexbol Index
 
1999
   
2000
   
2001
   
2002
   
2003
   
2004
   
2005
   
2006
 
                                                 
USD Returns
    90.39 %     (20.81 )%     20.88 %     (14.43 )%     33.61 %     50.49 %     44.90 %     45.77 %
Market Cap. (US Billions)
  $
129.60
    $
111.70
    $
112.40
    $
103.80
    $
124.70
    $
169.50
    $
283.80
    $
343.48
 
EV/EBITDA
   
10.5x
     
7.9x
     
8.1x
     
6.6x
     
7.8x
     
8.3x
     
8.9x
     
10.6x
 

Fund’s NAV & Common Share Market Price Performance

(USD Return)
 
1999
   
2000
   
2001
   
2002
   
2003
   
2004
   
2005
   
2006
 
                                                 
NAV’s per share
    59.20 %     (14.20 )%     10.00 %     (13.50 )%     40.00 %     55.60 %     38.70 %     59.29 %
Share Price
    74.70 %     (5.60 )%     18.70 %     (18.50 )%     36.00 %     66.60 %     8.10 %     75.54 %
                                                                 



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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank you for your continued support,
Sincerely yours,


Eugenia Pichardo
Portfolio Manager
PICHARDO ASSET MANAGEMENT


The discussion above reflects the opinions of the Portfolio Manager. These opinions are subject to change and any forecasts made cannot be guaranteed.

Past performance does not guarantee future results. Sector allocations and fund holdings are subject to change and are not recommendations to buy or sell any security. Please reference the following annual report for more complete fund information.

The information concerning the Fund included in the report of the investment adviser contain certain forward-looking statements about the factors that may affect the performance of the Fund in the future. These statements are based on Fund management’s predictions and expectations concerning certain future events and their expected impact on the Fund, such as performance of the economy as a whole and of specific industry sectors, changes in the levels of interest rates, the impact of developing world events, and other factors that may influence the future performance of the Fund. Management believes these forward-looking statements to be reasonable, although they are inherently uncertain and difficult to predict. Actual events may cause adjustments in portfolio management strategies from those currently expected to be employed.



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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.


Allocation of Portfolio Assets
July 31, 2007
(Calculated as a percentage of Net Assets)
 




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Schedule of Investments
July 31, 2007


MEXICO – 100.03%
 
Shares
   
Value
 
             
COMMON STOCKS – 99.90%
           
             
Airlines – 1.49%
           
Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte, S.A. de C.V.
   
256,500
    $
848,133
 
Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A. de C.V. – Class B
   
174,500
     
847,456
 
Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S.A. de C.V.– Class B
   
116,900
     
613,498
 
             
2,309,087
 
Cement – 5.79%
               
Cemex, S.A. de C.V. CPO
   
1,301,900
     
4,205,223
 
Corporacion Moctezuma, S.A. de C.V.
   
500,000
     
1,638,255
 
Grupo Cementos de Chihuahua, S.A. de C.V.
   
415,600
     
3,125,743
 
             
8,969,221
 
Chemicals – 0.56%
               
Cydsa, S.A. de. C.V.(a)
   
1,303,900
     
872,734
 
Communications – 14.04%
               
America Movil, S.A. de C.V. – Class L
   
4,680,644
     
13,942,362
 
America Movil, S.A. de C.V. – Class L ADR
   
60,070
     
3,596,992
 
Axtel, S.A. de C.V. CPO(a)
   
575,203
     
4,191,504
 
             
21,730,858
 
Distribution – Wholesale – 0.00%
               
Dermet de Mexico, S.A.(a)
   
278,629
     
 
Financial Groups – 4.67%
               
GBM Grupo Bursatil Mexicano, S.A. de C.V. Casa de Bolsa(a)
   
1,457,200
     
2,387,264
 
Grupo Financiero Banorte, S.A. de C.V. – Class O
   
1,069,500
     
4,834,625
 
             
7,221,889
 
Food, Beverage, and Tobacco – 0.91%
               
Fomento Economico Mexicano, S.A. de C.V.
   
381,900
     
1,412,319
 
Housing – 8.69%
               
Desarrolladora Homex, S.A. de C.V.(a)*
   
374,000
     
3,540,691
 
Desarrolladora Homex, S.A. de C.V. –ADR(a)
   
40,500
     
2,289,060
 
SARE Holding, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
3,430,106
     
5,934,872
 
Urbi Desarrollos Urbanos, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
401,100
     
1,695,540
 
             
13,460,163
 
                 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Schedule of Investments (continued)
July 31, 2007


COMMON STOCKS (continued)
 
Shares
   
Value
 
             
Industrial Conglomerates – 8.71%
           
Alfa, S.A. – Class A
   
362,800
    $
2,494,390
 
Grupo Carso, S.A. de C.V.
   
701,000
     
2,850,294
 
Industrias CH, S.A. – Class B(a)
   
756,700
     
3,342,760
 
Mexichem, S.A. de C.V.
   
1,414,360
     
4,793,873
 
             
13,481,317
 
Infrastructure – 27.95%
               
Carso Infraestructura y Construccion, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
3,776,500
     
4,377,923
 
Empresas ICA Sociedad Conroladora, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
1,980,750
     
12,550,594
 
Grupo Mexicano de Desarrollo, S.A.(a)
   
1,867,600
     
8,163,479
 
Impulsora del Desarrollo y el Empleo en America Latina, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
2,706,900
     
4,624,398
 
Promotora y Operadora de Infraestructura, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
3,634,500
     
13,550,107
 
             
43,266,501
 
Media – 2.36%
               
Grupo Televisa, S.A. CPO
   
344,200
     
1,741,499
 
Grupo Televisa, S.A. – ADR
   
75,500
     
1,906,375
 
             
3,647,874
 
Mining – 5.84%
               
Grupo Mexico, S.A. – Series B
   
891,700
     
6,275,323
 
Industrias Penoles, S.A.
   
211,300
     
2,771,614
 
             
9,046,937
 
Real Estate Developer – 8.27%
               
DINE, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
1,496,400
     
1,586,174
 
Grupe, S.A. de C.V.(a)(b)
   
4,071,300
     
11,215,243
 
             
12,801,417
 
Retailing – 6.61%
               
Wal-Mart de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. – Class V
   
2,812,190
     
10,225,726
 
Shipping – 0.48%
               
Grupo TMM, S.A. – ADR(a)
   
216,800
     
741,456
 
Waste Management – 3.53%
               
Promotora Ambiental, S.A. de C.V.(a)
   
1,937,300
     
5,467,246
 
                 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $97,912,370)
          $
154,654,745
 
                 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Schedule of Investments (concluded)
July 31, 2007


INVESTMENT COMPANIES – 0.13%
 
Shares
   
Value
 
             
GBM Fondo de Mercado de Dinero S.A. de C.V., SIID para Personas
           
Fisicas(a)
   
86,303
    $
205,450
 
                 
TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANIES (Cost $208,036)
           
205,450
 
                 
TOTAL MEXICO (Cost $98,120,406)
          $
154,860,195
 
                 
                 
UNITED STATES – 0.07%
               
                 
INVESTMENT COMPANIES – 0.07%
               
                 
First American Treasury Obligation – Class A, 4.5338%
   
109,072
     
109,072
 
                 
TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANIES (Cost $109,072)
           
109,072
 
                 
TOTAL UNITED STATES (Cost $109,072)
           
109,072
 
                 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS – 100.10% (Cost $98,229,478)
           
154,969,267
 
                 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS – (0.10)%
            (150,999 )
                 
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
          $
154,818,268
 
                 
 

 
Footnotes and Abbreviations
ADR – American Depository Receipts.
(a)  Non-income producing security.
(b)  Affiliated company. See Note F in Notes to the Financial Statements.



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
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THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Statement of Assets & Liabilities
July 31, 2007


ASSETS:
   
Investments, at value
   
Unaffiliated issuers (Cost $92,680,890)
 $
143,754,024
Affiliated issuers (Cost $5,548,588)
 
11,215,243
Total investments, at value (Cost $98,229,478)
 
154,969,267
Foreign currencies (Cost $100,513)
 
100,281
Receivables:
   
Dividends and Interest
 
22,736
Prepaid expenses
 
16,306
Total Assets
 
155,108,590
     
LIABILITIES:
   
Payable to custodian
 
13,083
Investment Advisory fees
 
108,232
Legal fees
 
34,294
Administration fees
 
30,854
Directors’ fees
 
22,175
Custody fees
 
13,947
Fund accounting fees
 
6,235
CCO’s fee
 
2,000
Accrued expenses
 
59,502
Total Liabilities
 
290,322
     
Net Assets
 $
154,818,268
     
Net Asset Value Per Preferred Share
   
($54,566,696/1,429,336)
 $
38.18
     
Net Asset Value Per Common Share
   
($100,251,572/2,626,019)
 $
38.18
     
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:
   
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 1,429,336 shares outstanding
   
(1,855,128 shares authorized)
 
$1,429
Common stock, $0.001 par value; 2,626,019 shares outstanding
   
(100,000,000 shares authorized)
 
2,626
Paid-in capital
 
64,501,705
Accumulated net realized gain on investments and foreign currency
 
33,572,951
Net unrealized appreciation on investments and foreign currency:
 
56,739,557
     
Net Assets
 $
154,818,268
     

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
11

 
THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Statement of Operations
For the Year Ended
July 31, 2007


INVESTMENT INCOME
       
Dividends — Unaffiliated issuers
   
$
1,052,300
Interest
     
87,979
Total Investment Income
     
1,140,279
         
         
EXPENSES
       
Investment Advisory fees (Note B)
$
958,616
   
Legal fees
 
195,333
   
Administration fees (Note B)
 
147,048
   
Directors’ fees and expenses (Note B)
 
92,515
   
Custodian fees (Note B)
 
67,338
   
Reports to shareholders
 
54,201
   
Fund accounting fees (Note B)
 
49,033
   
Insurance expense
 
42,269
   
NYSE fees
 
37,317
   
Audit fees
 
25,468
   
CCO’s fee (Note B)
 
24,369
   
Transfer agent fees
 
12,628
   
Miscellaneous fees
 
144
   
Total expenses
     
1,706,279
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
     
(566,000)
         
         
         
         
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS
       
Net realized gain from investments and foreign currency transactions
     
34,194,338
Net change in unrealized appreciation from investments and foreign currency transactions
     
42,191,964
         
Net gain from investments and foreign currency transactions
     
76,386,302
         
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
   
 $
75,820,302
         




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
12


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 


   
For the Year
   
For the Year
 
   
Ended
   
Ended
 
   
July 31, 2007
   
July 31, 2006
 
             
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS
           
Operations:
           
Net investment gain (loss)
  $ (566,000 )   $
192,161
 
Net realized gain on investments and foreign currency transactions
   
34,194,338
     
12,702,285
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation in value of investments and foreign
               
currency transactions
   
42,191,964
     
6,684,413
 
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
   
75,820,302
     
19,578,859
 
                 
Distributions to Shareholders from:
               
Net investment income
               
Common stock
    (326,181 )     (395,538 )
Preferred stock
    (188,487 )    
 
Net realized gains
               
Common stock
    (7,176,105 )     (10,909,315 )
Preferred stock
    (4,146,775 )    
 
Decrease in net assets from distributions
    (11,837,548 )     (11,304,853 )
                 
Capital Share Transactions
               
Purchase of common stock for dividend
   
      (4,514,583 )
Issuance of common stock for dividend
   
4,255,191
     
4,514,583
 
Proceeds from preferred stock sold
   
     
25,685,167
 
Increase in net assets from capital share transactions
   
4,255,191
     
25,685,167
 
Total increase in net assets
   
68,237,945
     
33,959,173
 
Net Assets:
               
Beginning of year
   
86,580,323
     
52,621,150
 
End of year
  $
154,818,268
    $
86,580,323
 
*Including undistributed net investment income (loss) of:
  $
    $
514,649
 
                 




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
13

 
THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Financial Highlights
 


For a Common Share Outstanding Throughout Each Year

   
For the Year
   
For the Year
   
For the Year
   
For the Year
   
For the Year
 
   
Ended
   
Ended
   
Ended
   
Ended
   
Ended
 
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
   
2004
   
2003
 
                               
Per Share Operating Performance
                             
Net asset value, beginning of year
  $
22.18
    $
21.27
    $
13.66
    $
10.15
    $
8.74
 
Net investment income (loss)
    (0.14 )    
0.14
     
0.01
      (0.02 )     0.00 (2)
Net realized and unrealized gains on investments
                                       
and foreign currency transactions
   
19.17
     
6.54
     
7.60
     
3.55
     
1.41
 
Net increase from investment operations
   
19.03
     
6.68
     
7.61
     
3.53
     
1.41
 
Less: Distributions
                                       
Dividends from net investment income
    (0.13 )     (0.16 )    
      (0.02 )    
 
Distributions from net realized gains
    (2.90 )     (4.41 )    
     
     
 
Total dividends and distributions
    (3.03 )     (4.57 )    
      (0.02 )    
 
Capital Share Transactions
                                       
Anti-dilutive effect of Share Repurchase
   
     
0.18
     
     
     
 
Dilutive effect of Share Issuance
   
      (0.18 )    
     
     
 
Dilutive effect of Preferred Share Issuance
   
      (1.20 )    
     
     
 
Total capital share transactions
   
      (1.20 )    
     
     
 
Net Asset Value, end of year
  $
38.18
    $
22.18
    $
21.27
    $
13.66
    $
10.15
 
Per share market value, end of year
  $
44.23
    $
19.40
    $
18.82
    $
11.73
    $
9.10
 
Total Investment Return Based on Market Value,
                                       
end of year(1)
    152.78 %     37.62 %     60.44 %     29.10 %     14.47 %
                                         









The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
14


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Financial Highlights (continued)
 


For a Common Share Outstanding Throughout Each Year

   
For the Year
   
For the Year
   
For the Year
   
For the Year
   
For the Year
 
   
Ended
   
Ended
   
Ended
   
Ended
   
Ended
 
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
   
2004
   
2003
 
                               
Ratios/Supplemental Data
                             
Net assets, end of year (000’s)
  $
100,251
    $
54,872
    $
52,621
    $
33,779
    $
25,104
 
Ratios of expenses to average net assets:
                                       
Before expense reimbursement
    1.42 %     1.90 %     1.77 %     2.09 %     2.64 %
After expense reimbursement
    1.42 %     1.90 %     1.77 %     2.08 %     2.62 %
Ratios of net investment income (loss) to average
                                       
net assets:
                                       
Before expense reimbursement
    (0.47 )%     0.24 %     0.03 %     (0.15 )%     0.02 %
After expense reimbursement
    (0.47 )%     0.24 %     0.03 %     (0.15 )%     0.04 %
Portfolio turnover rate
    135.49 %(3)     179.85 %(3)     259.60 %     234.42 %     180.67 %
                                         

(1)
Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock at the current market price on the first day and a sale at the current market price on the last day of each period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund’s dividend reinvestment plan or at the price determined by the stock dividend distribution. Total investment does not reflect brokerage commissions.
(2)
The amount listed is less than $0.005 per share.
(3)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole without distinguishing between shares issued.





The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
15


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Financial Highlights
 


For a Preferred Share Outstanding Throughout the Period

   
For the Year
   
For the Period
 
   
Ended
   
January 7, 2006
 
   
July 31,
   
through July 31,
 
   
2007
   
2006
 
             
Per Share Operating Performance
           
Net asset value, beginning of period
  $
22.18
    $
21.25
 
Net investment income
    (0.14 )    
0.13
 
Net realized and unrealized gains on investments and foreign currency transactions
   
19.17
     
0.80
 
Net increase from investment operations
   
19.03
     
0.93
 
Less: Distributions
               
Dividends from net investment income
    (0.13 )    
 
Distributions from net realized gains
    (2.90 )    
 
Total dividends and distributions
    (3.03 )    
 
Net Asset Value, end of period
  $
38.18
    $
22.18
 
Per share market value, end of period
  $
36.10
    $
19.00
 
Total Investment Return Based on Market Value, end of period(1)
    110.66 %     2.70 %(2)
Ratios/Supplemental Data
               
Net assets, end of period (000’s)
  $
54,567
    $
31,708
 
Ratios of expenses to average net assets:
    1.42 %     1.97 %(3)
Ratios of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:
    (0.47 )%     0.37 %(3)
Portfolio turnover rate
    135.49 %(4)     179.85 %
                 

(1)
Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock at the current market price on the first day and a sale at the current market price on the last day of each period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund’s dividend reinvestment plan or at the price determined by the stock dividend distribution. Total investment does not reflect brokerage commissions.
(2)
Not Annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole without distinguishing between shares issued.





The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
16


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements
July 31, 2007


NOTE A:  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. (the ‘‘Fund’’) was incorporated in Maryland on May 24, 1990, and commenced operations on August 21, 1990. The Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Significant accounting policies are as follows:
Portfolio Valuation. Investments are stated at value in the accompanying financial statements. All securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at the last sales price prior to the time of determination of net asset value, or, if no sales price is available at that time, at the closing price last quoted for the securities (but if bid and asked quotations are available, at the mean between the current bid and asked prices, rather than the quoted closing price). Securities that are traded over-the-counter are valued, if bid and asked quotations are available, at the mean between the current bid and asked prices. Investments in short-term debt securities having a maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost if their term to maturity from the date of purchase was less than 60 days, or by amortizing their value on the 61st day prior to maturity if their term to maturity from the date of purchase when acquired by the Fund was more than 60 days. Other assets and securities for which no quotations are readily available will be valued in good faith at fair value using methods determined by the Board of Directors. These methods include, but are not limited to, the fundamental analytical data relating to the investment; the nature and duration of restrictions in the market in which they are traded (including the time needed to dispose of the security, methods of soliciting offers and mechanics of transfer); the evaluation of the forces which influence the market in which these securities may be purchased or sold, including the economic outlook and the condition of the industry in which the issuer participates.

Investment Transactions and Investment Income. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes. Interest income, including the accretion of discount and amortization of premium on investments, is recorded on an accrual basis; dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, using reasonable diligence, when known to the Fund. The collectibility of income receivable from foreign securities is evaluated periodically, and any resulting allowances for uncollectible amounts are reflected currently in the determination of investment income.



17


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
July 31, 2007


Tax Status. No provision is made for U.S. Federal income or excise taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company and to make the requisite distributions to its shareholders that will be sufficient to relieve it from all or substantially all U.S. Federal income and excise taxes.

The Fund is subject to the following withholding taxes on income from Mexican sources:

Dividends distributed by Mexican companies are subject to withholding tax at an effective rate of 0.00%. Prior to January 1, 2002, the effective rate was 7.69%.

Interest income on debt issued by the Mexican federal government is generally not subject to withholding. Withholding tax on interest from other debt obligations such as publicly traded bonds and loans by banks or insurance companies is at a rate of 4.9% under the tax treaty between Mexico and the United States.

Gains realized from the sale or disposition of debt securities may be subject to a 4.9% withholding tax. Gains realized by the Fund from the sale or disposition of equity securities that are listed and traded on the Mexican Stock Exchange (‘‘MSE’’) are exempt from Mexican withholding tax if sold through the stock exchange. Gains realized on transactions outside of the MSE may be subject to withholding at a rate of 25% (20% rate prior to January 1, 2002) of the value of the shares sold or, upon the election of the Fund, at 35% (40% rate prior to January 1, 2002) of the gain. If the Fund has owned less than 25% of the outstanding stock of the issuer of the equity securities within the 12 month period preceding the disposition, then such disposition will not be subject to capital gains taxes as provided for in the treaty to avoid double taxation between Mexico and the United States.

Accounting Pronouncements. On July 13, 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (‘‘FASB’’) released FASB Interpretation No. 48 ‘‘Accounting for Uncertainty  in Income Taxes’’ (‘‘FIN 48’’). FIN 48 provides guidance for how uncertain tax positions should be recognized, measured, presented and disclosed in the financial statements. FIN 48 requires the evaluation of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing the Fund’s tax returns to determine whether the tax positions are ‘‘more-likely-than-not’’ of being sustained by the applicable tax authority. Tax positions not deemed to meet the more-likely-than-not threshold would be recorded as a tax benefit or expense in the current year. Adoption of FIN 48 is required for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006 and is to be applied to all open tax years as of the effective date. At this time, management is evaluating the implications of FIN 48 and its impact in the financial statements has not yet been determined.



18


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
July 31, 2007


In September, 2006, FASB issued FASB Statement No. 157, ‘‘Fair Value Measurement’’ (‘‘SFAS 157’’), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Fund believes the adoption of SFAS 157 will have no material impact on its financial statements.

Reclassification of Capital Accounts. The Fund accounts and reports for distributions to shareholders in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Statement of Position 93-2; Determination, Disclosure and Financial Statement Presentation of Income, Capital, and Return of Capital Distributions by Investment Companies. For the year ended July 31, 2007, the Fund decreased undistributed net investment loss by $566,019 and decreased accumulated net realized gain on investments by $566,019 due to the tax treatment of foreign currency gains (losses) and net operating losses.

Foreign Currency Translation. The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Foreign currency amounts are translated into U.S. dollars on the following basis:

(i)  market value of investment securities, assets and liabilities at the current Mexican peso exchange rate on the valuation date, and

(ii)  purchases and sales of investment securities, income and expenses at the Mexican peso exchange rate prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions.

The Fund does not generally isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates from the effect of fluctuations in the market prices of securities. The Fund does isolate the effect of fluctuations in foreign currency rates, however, when determining the gain or loss upon the sale of foreign currency denominated debt obligations pursuant to U.S. Federal income tax regulations; such amounts are categorized as foreign exchange gain or loss for income tax reporting purposes.

The Fund reports realized foreign exchange gains and losses on all other foreign currency related transactions as components of realized gains and losses for financial reporting purposes, whereas such gains and losses are treated as ordinary income or loss for Federal income tax purposes.

Securities denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are subject to changes in value due to fluctuations in the foreign exchange rate. Foreign security and currency transactions may involve certain considerations and risks not typically associated with those of domestic origin as a result of, among other factors, the level of governmental supervision and regulation of foreign securities markets and the possibilities of political or economic instability.



19

 
THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
July 31, 2007


Distribution of Income and Gains. The Fund intends to distribute to shareholders, at least annually, substantially all of its net investment income, including foreign currency gains. The Fund also intends to normally distribute annually any net realized capital gains in excess of net realized capital losses (including any capital loss carryovers), except in circumstances where the Directors of the Fund determine that the decrease in the size of the Fund’s assets resulting from the distribution of the gains would generally not be in the interest of the Fund’s shareholders. An additional distribution may be made to the extent necessary to avoid payment of a 4% U.S. Federal excise tax.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The amount of dividends and distributions from net investment income and net realized gains are determined in accordance with U.S. Federal income tax regulations, which may differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These ‘‘book/tax’’ differences are either considered temporary or permanent in nature. To the extent these differences are permanent in nature, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on their Federal tax-basis treatment; temporary differences do not require reclassification. Dividends and distributions which exceed net investment income and net realized capital gains for financial reporting purposes but not for tax purposes are reported as dividends in excess of net investment income and net realized capital gains, respectively. To the extent they exceed net investment income and net realized gains for tax purposes, they are reported as distributions of additional paid-in capital.

Distributions to Shareholders. The tax character of distributions paid to shareholders during the years ended July 31, 2007 and July 31, 2006 were as follows:

Distributions paid from:
 
7/31/07
   
7/31/06
 
Ordinary Income
  $
7,190,007
    $
6,722,440
 
Long-Term Capital Gain
   
4,647,541
     
4,582,413
 
Total
  $
11,837,548
    $
11,304,853
 
                 

The Fund has designated as long-term capital gain dividend, pursuant to Internal Revenue Code section 852(b)(3), the amount necessary to reduce the earnings & profits of the Fund related to net capital gain to zero for the tax year ended July 31, 2007.



20


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
July 31, 2007

 
 
As of July 31, 2007, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

Cost of Investments for tax purposes
$
98,352,983
Gross tax unrealized appreciation on investments
 
57,881,586
Gross tax unrealized depreciation on investments
 
(1,265,302)
Net tax unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments
 
56,616,284
Net unrealized depreciation on foreign currency transactions
 
(232)
Net tax unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and foreign currency
$
56,616,052
Undistributed ordinary income
$
14,703,113
Undistributed long-term capital gains
 
18,993,343
Total Distributable earnings
$
33,696,456
     
Other accumulated gains (losses)
$
     
Total accumulated earnings (losses)
$
90,312,508
     

(a)
Represents cost for federal income tax purposes. Differences between the Fund’s cost basis of investments and foreign currency at July 31, 2007, for book and tax purposes, relate primarily to the deferral of losses related to wash sales.

The Mexico Equity and Income Fund designates 16% of dividends declared for the fiscal year July 31, 2007 from net investment income as qualified dividend income under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (unaudited).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION APPLICABLE TO FOREIGN SHAREHOLDERS ONLY

The percent of ordinary income distributions designated as interest related dividends for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2007 was 2%. (Unaudited)

The percent of ordinary income distributions designated as short-term capital gain distributions for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2007 was 100%. (Unaudited)

NOTE B: MANAGEMENT, INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V. serves as the Fund’s Investment Adviser (the ‘‘Investment Adviser’’) under the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement (the ‘‘Advisory Agreement’’) effective July 1, 2003. Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Investment Adviser makes investment decisions for the Fund and supervises the acquisition and disposition of securities by the Fund. For its services, the Investment Adviser receives a monthly fee at an annual rate of 0.80% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. For the year ended July 31, 2007, these fees amounted to $958,616. The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reimburse the Fund for certain fees and

 
21


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
July 31, 2007


expenses on an annual basis. These expense reimbursements may be terminated at any time. For the year ended July 31, 2007, there were no expense reimbursements made by the Investment Adviser.

Effective November 1, 2005, the Fund pays each of its directors who is not a director, officer or employee of the Investment Adviser, the Administrator or any affiliate thereof an annual fee of $12,000 plus $1,000 for each Board of Directors meeting attended and $250 for each Audit Committee meeting attended. For serving the Fund as Chief Compliance Officer, in addition to the aforementioned Directors’ fees, Mr. Hellerman receives annual compensation in the amount of $24,000. In addition, the Fund reimburses the directors for travel and out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with Board of Directors’ meetings.

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (‘‘USBFS’’), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp, serves as the Fund’s Administrator and, in that capacity, performs various administrative and accounting services for the Fund. USBFS also serves as the Fund’s Fund Accountant (the ‘‘Fund Accountant’’). U.S. Bank, N.A. serves as the Fund’s custodian (the ‘‘Custodian’’). The Custodian is an affiliate of the Administrator. The Administrator prepares various federal and state regulatory filings, reports and returns for the Funds; prepares reports and materials to be supplied to the directors; monitors the activities of the Fund’s Custodian and Fund Accountant; coordinates the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviews the Fund’s expense accruals.

For its services, the Administrator receives a monthly fee at the following annual rate:

0.12% of average daily net assets up to $200 million, plus
0.10% of average daily net assets from $200 million to $700 million, plus
0.05% of average daily net assets on the remaining balance above $700 million

For its services, the Fund Accountant receives a monthly fee at the following annual rate:

$42,000 minimum annual fee on average daily net assets up to $100 million, plus
0.030% of average daily net assets from $100 million to $300 million, plus
0.015% of average daily net assets on the remaining balance above $300 million

For its services, the Custodian receives a monthly fee at the following annual rate:

$12,000 minimum base fee, plus 0.03% of average daily custody balance

For the year ended July 31, 2007, the Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. incurred
Administration fees of $147,048, Fund Accounting fees of $49,033 and Custody fees of $67,338.

 
22


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
July 31, 2007


NOTE C: PORTFOLIO ACTIVITY

Purchases and sales of securities other than short-term obligations, aggregated $161,106,649 and $161,946,989 respectively, for the year ended July 31, 2007.

At July 31, 2007 substantially all of the Fund’s assets were invested in Mexican securities. The Mexican securities markets are substantially smaller, less liquid, and more volatile than the major securities markets in the United States. Consequently, acquisitions and dispositions of securities by the Fund may be limited.

NOTE D: CAPITAL STOCK

The Board of Directors approved rights offering (the ‘‘Offering’’) on October 12, 2005. In connection with the Offering by the Fund, the Fund issued to stockholders of record as of November 30, 2005 (the ‘‘Record Date’’) 0.75 nontransferable rights to purchase one share of preferred stock for each share of common stock owned as of the Record Date. The rights entitled the holders to purchase three shares of preferred stock for every four shares held as of the Record Date at a subscription price calculated as the greater of (i) 90% of the Fund’s asset value per share (‘‘NAV’’) as determined on the Expiration Date (December 28, 2005) or (ii) the average closing price of the Fund’s common stock over the four consecutive trading days ending on the Expiration Date. On January 6, 2006, the Fund issued 1,429,336 shares of preferred stock at $17.97 per share, which raised $25,685,167. The net asset value per share of the Fund’s common stockholders was reduced by approximately $1.20 per share as a result of this issuance (see Note E).

On December 6, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a stock dividend of $3.03306 per share. This dividend was paid in shares of common stock of the Fund, or in cash by specific election of the shareholder. Shareholders that did not select the cash option were issued 152,515 shares, which amount to $4,253,635.

During the year ended July 31, 2006, the Fund purchased 242,594 shares of capital stock in the open market at a total cost of $4,514,583. The weighted average discount of these purchases comparing the purchase price to the net asset value at the time of purchase was 8.60%. On December 13, 2005, the Board of Directors declared a stock dividend of $4.57038 per common share. This dividend was paid in shares of common stock of the Fund, and in cash by specific election. Some shareholders selected the stock dividend; therefore on January 31, 2006 the Fund issued 242,594 shares, which amounted to $4,514,583.

During the years ended July 31, 2007, July 31, 2005, July 31, 2004 and July 31, 2003, the Fund made no repurchases pursuant to the program.

Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 23(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 that the Fund may purchase, from time to time, shares of its common stock in the open market.

 
23


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)
July 31, 2007


NOTE E: PREFERRED STOCK

Shares of the Preferred Stock have identical rights, voting powers, restrictions, and qualifications of the common stock of the Fund except for repurchase and conversion preference features.

The Fund intends to conduct a series of tender offers for Preferred Stock only (each, a ‘‘Tender Offer’’) on a semi-annual basis, on dates to be determined by the Board of Directors, in which 25% of the issued and outstanding Preferred Stock may be tendered to the Fund and repurchased in kind for the Fund’s portfolio securities. The Board of Directors currently knows of no reason why the Tender Offers would not be conducted. The consideration for the Preferred Stock to be repurchased by the Fund shall be that value of portfolio securities equal to 99% of NAV as determined, with respect to each Tender Offer, on a date designated by the Board of Directors. The Fund may pay cash for fractional shares; or round off (up or down) fractional shares so as to eliminate them prior to distribution.

In the event the Put Warrant Program is approved by the SEC and upon the anticipated issuance of put warrants by the Fund, all issued and outstanding shares of Preferred Stock will automatically convert to our common stock on a one-for-one basis upon the anticipated issuance of put warrants by the Fund and, shortly thereafter, stockholders will receive put warrants.

NOTE F. TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES

The following issuer is affiliated with the Fund; that is, the Fund held 5% or more of the outstanding voting shares during the period from August 1, 2006 through July 31, 2007. As defined in Section (2)(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, such issuers are:

   
Share Balance
         
Share Balance
 
Dividend
 
Value
Issuer Name
 
At Aug. 1, 2006
 
Additions
 
Reductions
 
At July 31, 2007
 
Income
 
At July 31, 2007
                         
Grupe, S.A. de C.V.
 
 
4,071,300
 
 
4,071,300
 
$—
 
$11,215,243
                         

NOTE G: SUBSEQUENT EVENT

In September 2007, pursuant to a non-transferable rights offering to all common and preferred stockholders of the Fund, the Fund issued 848,150 shares of common stock. Each share of common stock was issued at a subscription price of $36.24, which is equal to the Fund’s net asset value per share on August 31, 2007 and raised $30,736,956.



24


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Report Of Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm
 
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors
Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc.

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. (the ‘‘Fund’’) as of July 31, 2007 and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for the periods indicate thereon. These financial statements and financial highlights are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial highlights based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement. The Fund is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2007, by correspondence with the custodian. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements and financial highlights referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. as of July 31, 2007, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and the financial highlights for the periods indicated thereon, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

TAIT, WELLER & BAKER LLP

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
September 14, 2007



25


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Additional Information (unaudited)
July 31, 2007


NOTE A: INFORMATION ABOUT PROXY VOTING

Information regarding how the Fund votes proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge upon request by calling toll-free at 1-888-294-8217 and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve month period ended June 30 is available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by calling the toll-free number listed above.

NOTE B: AVAILABILITY OF QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO SCHEDULE

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The filing will be available, upon request, by calling 1-866-700-6104. Furthermore, you will be able to obtain a copy of the filing on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov beginning with the filing for the period ended October 31, 2004. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.

NOTE C: INFORMATION ABOUT CERTIFICATIONS
In November 2006, the Fund submitted a CEO annual certification to the NYSE in which the Fund’s principal executive officer certified that she was not aware, as of the date of the certification, of any violation by the Fund of the NYSE’s Corporate Governance listing standards. In addition, as required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and related SEC rules, the Fund’s principal executive and principal financial officers have made quarterly certifications, included in the filing with the SEC on Forms N-CSR and N-Q, relating to, among other things, the Fund’s disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting.



26


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Dividends and Distributions (unaudited)
July 31, 2007


DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN

The Fund intends to distribute to shareholders substantially all of its net investment company taxable income at least annually. Investment company taxable income, as defined in section 852 of the Internal Revenue Service Code of 1986, includes all of the Fund’s taxable income minus the excess, if any, of its net realized long-term capital gains over its net realized short-term capital losses (including any capital loss carryovers), plus or minus certain other required adjustments. The Fund also expects to distribute annually substantially all of its net realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized short-term capital losses (including any capital loss carryovers), except in circumstances where the Fund realizes very large capital gains and where the Directors of the Fund determine that the decrease in the size of the Fund’s assets resulting from the distribution of the gains would not be in the interest of the Fund’s shareholders generally.

Pursuant to the Fund’s Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the ‘‘Plan’’), each shareholder will be deemed to have elected, unless the Plan Agent (as defined below) is otherwise instructed by the shareholder in writing, to have all distributions, net of any applicable U.S. withholding tax, automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Fund by Computershare Trust Company, Inc., the Fund’s transfer agent, as the Plan Agent (the ‘‘Plan Agent’’). Shareholders who do not participate in the Plan will receive all dividends and distributions in cash, net of any applicable U.S. withholding tax, paid in U.S. dollars by check mailed directly to the shareholder by the Plan Agent, as dividend-paying agent. Shareholders who do not wish to have dividends and distributions automatically reinvested should notify the Plan Agent for The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc., c/o Computershare Investor Services, ATTN: Ms. Margaret Dunn, 250 Royall Street; 3B, Canton, Massachusetts 02021. Dividends and distributions with respect to shares of the Fund’s Common Stock and Preferred Stock registered in the name of a broker-dealer or other nominee (i.e., in ‘‘street name’’) will be reinvested under the Plan unless the service is not provided by the broker or nominee or the shareholder elects to receive dividends and distributions in cash. A shareholder whose shares are held by a broker or nominee that does not provide a dividend reinvestment program may be required to have his shares registered in his own name to participate in the Plan. Investors who own shares of the Fund’s Common Stock and Preferred Stock registered in street name should contact the broker or nominee for details.

The Plan Agent serves as agent for the shareholders in administering the Plan. If the Directors of the Fund declare an income dividend or a capital gains distribution payable either in the Fund’s Common Stock, Preferred Stock, or in cash, as shareholders may have elected, nonparticipants in the Plan will receive cash and participants in the Plan will receive Common Stock or Preferred Stock, respectively, to be issued by the Fund. If the market price per share on the valuation date equals or exceeds net asset value per share on that date, the Fund will issue new shares to participants at net



27


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Dividends and Distributions (unaudited) (continued)
July 31, 2007


asset value; or, if the net asset value is less than 95% of the market price on the valuation date, then such shares will be issued at 95% of the market price.

If net asset value per share on the valuation date exceeds the market price per share on that date, participants in the Plan will receive shares of Common Stock or Preferred Stock from the Fund valued at market price. The valuation date is the dividend or distribution payment date or, if that date is not a New York Stock Exchange trading day, the next preceding trading day. If the Fund should declare an income dividend or capital gains distribution payable only in cash, the Plan Agent will, as agent for the participants, buy Fund shares in the open market on the New York Stock Exchange or elsewhere, for the participants’ accounts on, or shortly after, the payment date.

The Plan Agent maintains all shareholder accounts in the Plan and furnishes written confirmations of all transactions in an account, including information needed by shareholders for personal and tax records. Shares in the account of each Plan participant will be held by the Plan Agent in noncertified form in the name of the participant, and each shareholder’s proxy will include those shares purchased pursuant to the Plan.

In the case of shareholders such as banks, brokers or nominees that hold shares for others who are beneficial owners, the Plan Agent will administer the Plan on the basis of the number of shares certified from time to time by the shareholders as representing the total amount registered in the shareholder’s name and held for the account of beneficial owners who participate in the Plan.

There is no charge to participants for reinvesting dividends or capital gains distributions payable in either Common Stock, Preferred Stock or cash. The Plan Agent’s fees for the handling or reinvestment of such dividends and capital gains distributions will be paid by the Fund. There will be no brokerage charges with respect to shares issued directly by the Fund as a result of dividends or capital gains distributions payable either in stock or in cash. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred with respect to the Plan Agent’s open market purchases in connection with the reinvestment of dividends or capital gains distributions payable in cash.

Brokerage charges for purchasing small amounts of Common Stock and Preferred Stock for individual accounts through the Plan are expected to be less than usual brokerage charges for such transactions because the Plan Agent will be purchasing stock for all participants in blocks and prorating the lower commissions thus attainable. Brokerage commissions will vary based on, among other things, the broker selected to effect a particular purchase and the number of participants on whose behalf such purchase is being made.
 
 

 
28


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Dividends and Distributions (unaudited) (concluded)
July 31, 2007


The receipt of dividends and distributions in Common Stock or Preferred Stock under the Plan will not relieve participants of any income tax (including withholding tax) that may be payable on such dividends or distributions.

Experience under the Plan may indicate that changes in the Plan are desirable. Accordingly, the Fund and the Plan Agent reserve the right to terminate the Plan as applied to any dividend or distribution paid subsequent to notice of the termination sent to participants at least 30 days before the record date for such dividend or distribution. The Plan also may be amended by the Fund or the Plan Agent, but (except when necessary or appropriate to comply with applicable law, or rules or policies of a regulatory authority) only upon at least 30 days’ written notice to participants. All correspondence concerning the Plan should be directed to the Plan Agent at the address above.






 
 

 

29

 
THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Results of Annual Stockholders Meeting (unaudited)
July 31, 2007


The Fund’s Annual Stockholders meeting was held on December 6, 2006, at 405 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10174. As of September 25, 2006, the record date, outstanding shares of common and preferred stock were 2,473,504 and 1,429,336, respectively. Holders of 2,164,529 common shares and 1,251,468 preferred shares of the Fund were present at the meeting either in person or by proxy. These holders, as being holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, constituted a quorum. The stockholders voted on two proposals. The stockholders elected two Directors to the Board of Directors, one by each share class, and ratified the prior issuance of shares of the Fund’s preferred stock. The following table provides information concerning the matters voted on at the meeting:

I.
Election of Directors

Common Shareholder Nominee
Votes For
Votes Withheld
     
Andrew Dakos
2,051,184
113,345
     
Preferred Shareholder Nominee
   
     
Rajeev Das
1,243,296
8,172


II.
Ratification of Prior Issuance of Shares of the Fund’s Preferred Stock

 
Votes For
Votes Against
Abstained
Non Votes
Common Shareholders
1,243,738
214,136
83,269
623,386
         
         
Preferred Shareholders
937,118
38,617
5,105
270,628

 
 
 

 

30


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Privacy Policy (unaudited)
July 31, 2007


The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. (the ‘‘Fund’’) has adopted the following privacy policy in order to safeguard the personal information of its consumers and customers in accordance with SEC Regulation S-P, 17 CFR 284.30:

Commitment to Consumer Privacy. The Fund recognizes and respects the privacy expectations of each of our customers and believes that the confidentiality and protection of consumer information is one of our fundamental responsibilities. The Fund is committed to maintaining the confidentiality, integrity and security of the customers’ personal information and will handle personal consumer and customer information only in accordance with Regulation S-P and any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Fund will ensure: (a) the security and confidentiality of customer records and information; (b) that customer records and information are protected from any anticipated threats and hazards; and (c) that unauthorized access to, or use of, customer records or information is protected against.

Collection and Disclosure of Shareholder Information. Consumer information collected by, or on behalf of, The Fund, generally consists of the following:

·  
Information received from consumers or customers on or in applications or other forms, correspondence, or conversations, including, but not limited to, their name, address, phone number, social security number, assets, income and date of birth; and

·  
Information about transactions with us, our affiliates, or others, including, but not limited to, shareholder account numbers and balance, payments history, parties to transactions, cost basis information, and other financial information.

The Fund does not disclose any nonpublic personal information about our current or former consumers or customers to nonaffiliated third parties, except as permitted by law. For example, as The Fund has no employees, it conducts its business affairs through third parties that provide services pursuant to agreements with The Fund (as well as through its officers and directors).

Security of Consumer and Customer Information. The Fund will determine whether the policies and procedures of its affiliates and service providers and reasonably designed to safeguard customer information and require only appropriate and authorized access to, and use of, customer information through the application of appropriate administrative, technical, physical, and procedural safeguards that comply with applicable federal standards and regulations. The Fund directs each of its service providers to adhere to The Fund’s privacy policy and to their respective privacy policies with respect to all customer information of The Fund and to take all actions reasonably necessary so that The Fund is in compliance with the provisions of 17 CFR 248.30, including, as applicable, the development and delivery of initial and annual privacy notices and maintenance of appropriate and adequate records. The Fund will require its service providers to confirm to The Fund, in writing, that



31


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Privacy Policy (unaudited) (continued)
July 31, 2007


they are restricting access to nonpublic personal information about customers to those employees who need to know that information to provide products or services to customers.

The Fund requires its service providers to provide periodic reports, no less frequently than annually, to the Board of Directors outlining their privacy policies and implementation and promptly report to The Fund any material changes to their privacy policy before, or promptly after, their adoption.

 
 

 

32


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.



Management of the Fund (unaudited)
July 31, 2007


Board of Directors. The management and affairs of the Fund are supervised by the Board of Directors. The Board consists of five individuals, all of whom are not ‘‘interested persons’’ of the Fund as the term is defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the ‘‘1940 Act’’). The Directors are fiduciaries for the Fund’s shareholders and are governed by the laws of the State of Maryland in this regard. The Board establishes policies for the operation of the Fund and appoints the officers who conduct the daily business of the Fund. The Directors and Interested Officers of the Fund are listed below with their addresses, present position(s) with the Fund, length of time served, principal occupations over at least the last five years, and any other Directorships held. Please note that there is only one fund in the complex that is overseen by the Directors.

Name and Address
 
Year
Born
 
Position(s)
with the Fund
 
Term of
Office/Length
of Time Served
 
Principal Occupation
During the Past Five Years
 
Other Directorships
Held by Director
                     
Gerald Hellerman
10965 Eight Bells Lane
Columbia, MD 21044
 
1937
 
Director, Chief
Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer
 
2007 / 6 years
 
Managing Director,
Hellerman Associates
 
Director, AirNet Systems, Inc.; Director, MVC Capital, Inc.; Director, Brantley Capital Corporation
                     
Phillip Goldstein
60 Heritage Drive
Pleasantville, NY 10570
 
1945
 
Director
 
2008 / 7 years
 
President, Kimball & Winthrop, Inc.; and general partner of Opportunity Partners, L.P.; Managing Member of the general partner of Full Value Partners, L.P.
 
Director, Brantley Capital Corporation; Director, Emerging Markets Telecommunications Fund; Director, First Israel Funds
                     
Glenn Goodstein
2308 Camino Robledo
Carlsbad, CA 92009
 
1963
 
Director
 
2008 / 6 years
 
Registered Investment Advisor; held numerous executive positions with Automatic Data Processing until 1996.
 
None
                     
Rajeev Das
68 Lafayette Avenue
Dumont, NJ 07628
 
1968
 
Director
 
2006 / 6 years
 
Senior analyst, Kimball & Winthrop, Inc.; prior Credit Manager, Muriel Siebett & Company.
 
None
                     
Andrew Dakos
43 Waterford Drive
Montville, NJ 07045
 
1966
 
Director
 
2006 / 6 years
 
President and CEO, UVitec Printing Ink, Inc.; and Managing Member of the general partner of Full Value Partners, L.P.; President of Elmhurst Capital, Inc.
 
None


33


THE MEXICO EQUITY AND INCOME FUND, INC.
 

 
Name and Address
 
Year
Born
 
Position(s)
with the Fund
 
Term of
Office/Length
of Time Served
 
Principal Occupation
During the Past Five Years
 
Other Directorships
Held by Director
                     
Maria Eugenia Pichardo
408 Teopanzolco Avenue
3rd Floor-Reforma
Cuernavaca, 62260
Morelos Mexico
 
1950
 
Interested
Officer,
President
 
Indefinite / 3 years
 
Portfolio Manager of the Fund since the Fund’s Inception; President and General Partner, Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V. since 2003; Managing Director, Acciones y Valores de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. from 1979 to 2002.
 
None
                     
Francisco Lopez
408 Teopanzolco Avenue
3rd Floor-Reforma
Cuernavaca, 62260
Morelos Mexico
 
1971
 
Interested
Officer,
Secretary
 
Indefinite / 3 years
 
Research Director, Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V. since 2003; Assistant Portfolio Manager, Acciones y Valores de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. from 1997 to 2002.
 
None


 
 
 

 
34



 
THE MEXICO EQUITY
AND INCOME FUND, INC.
 
 
Investment Adviser:
Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V.
408 Teopanzolco Avenue
3rd Floor – Reforma
Cuernavaca, 62260 Morelos
Mexico
 
Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm:
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
1818 Market Street, Suite 2400
Philadelphia, PA 19103
 
Administrator and Fund Accountant:
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
 
Transfer Agent and Registrar:
Computershare Investor Services, LLC
250 Royall Street; 3B
Canton, MA 02021
 
Custodian:
U.S. Bank, N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212
 
Board of Directors:
Andrew Dakos
Rajeev Das
Phillip Goldstein
Glenn Goodstein
Gerald Hellerman
 
 
 
 
The Mexico Equity
and Income Fund, Inc.
 
 
Annual Report
 
 
July 31, 2007
 




 
Item 2. Code of Ethics.

The registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer.  The registrant has not made any amendments to its code of ethics during the period covered by this report.  The registrant has not granted any waivers from any provisions of the code of ethics during the period covered by this report.  The registrant undertakes to provide to any person without charge, upon request, a copy of its code of ethics by mail when they call the registrant at 1-414-287-3311.

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

The registrant’s board of directors has determined that it does not have an audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee.  At this time, the registrant believes that the experience provided by each member of the audit committee together offers the registrant adequate oversight for the registrant’s level of financial complexity.

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

The registrant has engaged its principal accountant to perform audit services, audit-related services, tax services and other services during the past two fiscal years.  “Audit services” refer to performing an audit of the registrant's annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years.  “Audit-related services” refer to the assurance and related services by the principal accountant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit.  “Tax services” refer to professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning.  “Other services” were not provided by the principal accountant.  The following table details the aggregate fees billed or expected to be billed for each of the last two fiscal years for audit fees, audit-related fees, tax fees and other fees by the principal accountant.

 
FYE  7/31/2007
FYE  7/31/2006
Audit Fees
$23,500
$22,500
Audit-Related Fees
$0
$0
Tax Fees
$2,600
$2,400
All Other Fees
$0
$0

The audit committee has adopted pre-approval policies and procedures that require the audit committee to pre-approve all audit and non-audit services of the registrant, including services provided to any entity affiliated with the registrant.  All of the principal accountant’s hours spent on auditing the registrant’s financial statements were attributed to work performed by full-time permanent employees of the principal accountant.

The following table indicates the non-audit fees billed or expected to be billed by the registrant’s accountant for services to the registrant and to the registrant’s investment adviser (and any other controlling entity, etc.—not sub-adviser) for the last two years.  The audit committee of the board of trustees/directors has considered whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the registrant's investment adviser is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant's independence and has concluded that the provision of such non-audit services by the accountant has not compromised the accountant’s independence.
 

 
Non-Audit Related Fees
FYE  7/31/2007
FYE  7/31/2006
Registrant
$0
$0
Registrant’s Investment Adviser
$0
$0


Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

The standing audit committee is comprised of Mr. Andrew Dakos, Mr. Phillip Goldstein and Mr. Rajeev Das.

Item 6. Schedule of Investments.

Schedule of Investments is included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.

Item 7. Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND GUIDELINES
 
The Proxy Voting Policies and Guidelines contained in this document summarize The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc.’s (the “Fund”) positions on various issues of concern to the Fund’s shareholders.  These Guidelines give general indication as to how the Fund’s Advisor will vote Fund shares on each issue listed.  However, this listing does not address all potential voting issues or the intricacies that may surround individual proxy votes.  For that reason there may be instances in which votes may vary from the guidelines presented here.  The Fund endeavors to vote Fund shares in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives and strategies.
 
I.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
 
A.
Board and Governance Issues
 
 
1.
Board of Director/Trustee Composition
 
The Board of Directors is responsible for the overall governance of the corporation.
 
The Fund advisor will oppose slates without at least a majority of independent directors (1/3 of directors who are outsiders to the corporation).
 
The Fund advisor will vote for shareholder proposals that request that the board audit, compensation and/or nominating committees include independent directors exclusively.
 
 
2.
Increase Authorized Common Stock
 
The Fund advisor will generally support the authorization of additional common stock necessary to facilitate a stock split.
 

 
The Fund advisor will generally support the authorization of additional common stock, if the company already has a large amount of stock authorized but not issued or reserved for its stock option plans.  In this latter instance, there is a concern that the authorized but unissued shares will be used as a poison pill or other takeover defense, which will be opposed.  In addition, we will require the company to provide a specific purpose for any request to increase shares by more than 100 percent of the current authorization.
 
 
3.
Blank Check Preferred Stock
 
Blank check preferred is stock with a fixed dividend and a preferential claim on company assets relative to common shares.  The terms of the stock (voting dividend and conversion rights) are set by the Board at a future date without further shareholder action.  While such an issue can in theory have legitimate corporate purposes, most often it has been used as a takeover defense since the stock has terms that make the entire company less attractive.
 
The Fund advisor will generally oppose the creation of blank check preferred stock.
 
4.           Classified or “Staggered” Board
 
On a classified (or staggered) board, directors are divided into separate classes (usually three) with directors in each class elected to overlapping three-year terms.  Companies argue that such Boards offer continuity in direction which promotes long-term planning.  However, in some instances they may serve to deter unwanted takeovers since a potential buyer would have to wait at least two years to gain a majority of Board seats.
 
The Fund advisor will vote on a case-by-case basis on issues involving classified boards.
 
5.           Supermajority Vote Requirements
 
Supermajority vote requirements in a company’s charter or bylaws require a level of voting approval in excess of a simple majority.  Generally, supermajority provisions require at least 2/3 affirmative vote for passage of issues.
 
The Fund advisor will vote on a case-by-case issues involving supermajority voting.
 
6.           Restrictions on Shareholders to Act by Written Consent
 
Written consent allows shareholders to initiate and carry out a shareholder action without waiting until the annual meeting or by calling a special meeting.  It permits action to be taken by the written consent of the same percentage of outstanding shares that would be required to effect the proposed action at a shareholder meeting.
 
The Fund advisor will generally oppose proposals to limit or eliminate the right of shareholders to act by written consent.
 
7.           Restrictions on Shareholders to Call Meetings
 
The Fund advisor will generally oppose such a restriction as it limits the right of the shareholder.
 

 
8.            Limitations, Director Liability and Indemnification
 
Because of increased litigation brought against directors of corporations and the increased costs of director’s liability insurance, many states have passed laws limiting director liability for those acting in good faith.  Shareholders however must opt into such statutes.  In addition, many companies are seeking to add indemnification of directors to corporate bylaws.
 
The Fund advisor will generally support director liability and indemnification resolutions because it is important for companies to be able to attract the most qualified individuals to their Boards.  Note: Those directors acting fraudulently would remain liable for their actions irrespective of this resolution.
 
9.            Reincorporation
 
Corporations are in general bound by the laws of the state in which they are incorporated.  Companies reincorporate for a variety of reasons including shifting incorporation to a state where the company has its most active operations or corporate headquarters, or shifting incorporation to take advantage of state corporate takeover laws.
 
While each reincorporation proposal will be evaluated based on its own merits, the Fund advisor will generally support reincorporation resolutions for valid business reasons (such as reincorporating in the same state as the corporate headquarters).
 
10.           Cumulative Voting
 
Cumulative voting allows shareholders to “stack” their votes behind one or a few directors running for the board, thereby helping a minority of shareholders to win board representation.  Cumulative voting gives minority shareholders a voice in corporate affairs proportionate to their actual strength in voting shares.
 
The Fund advisor will generally support proposals calling for cumulative voting in the election of directors.
 
11.           Dual Classes of Stock
 
In order to maintain corporate control in the hands of a certain group of shareholders, companies may seek to create multiple classes of stock with differing rights pertaining to voting and dividends.
 
The Fund advisor will generally oppose dual classes of stock.  However, the advisor will support classes of stock offering different dividend rights (such as one class which pays cash dividends and a second which pays stock dividends) depending on the circumstances.
 
12.           Limit Directors’ Tenure
 
In general corporate directors may stand for re-election indefinitely.  Opponents of this practice suggest that limited tenure would inject new perspectives into the boardroom as well as possibly creating room for directors from diverse backgrounds; however, continuity is important to corporate leadership and in some instances alternative means may be explored for injecting new ideas or members from diverse backgrounds into corporate boardrooms.
 
Accordingly, the Fund advisor will vote on a case-by-case basis attempts to limit director tenure.
 

 
13.           Minimum Director Stock Ownership
 
The director share ownership proposal requires that all corporate directors own a minimum number of shares in the corporation.  The purpose of this resolution is to encourage directors to have the same interest as other shareholders.
 
The Fund advisor will support resolutions that require corporate directors to own shares in the company.
 
14.           Selection of Auditor
 
Annual election of the outside accountants is standard practice.  While it is recognized that the company is in the best position to evaluate the competence of the outside accountants, we believe that outside accountants must ultimately be accountable to shareholders.  Furthermore, audit committees have been the subject of a report released by the Blue Ribbon Commission on Improving the Effectiveness of Corporate Audit Committees in conjunction with the NYSE and the National Association of Securities Dealers.  The Blue Ribbon Commission concluded that audit committees must improve their current level of oversight of independent accountants.  Given the rash of accounting irregularities that were not detected by audit panels or auditors, shareholder ratification is an essential step in restoring investor confidence.
 
The Fund advisor will oppose the resolutions seeking ratification of the auditor when fees for financial systems design and implementation exceed audit and all other fees, as this can compromise the independence of the auditor.
 
The Fund advisor will oppose the election of the audit committee chair if the audit committee recommends an auditors whose fees for financial systems design and implementation exceed audit and all other fees, as this can compromise the independence of the auditor.
 
B.
Executive Compensation
 
1.
Disclosure of CEO, Executive, Board and Management Compensation
 
On a case-by-case basis, the Fund advisor will support shareholder resolutions requesting companies to disclose the salaries of top management and the Board of Directors.
 
2.
Compensation for CEO, Executive, Board and Management
 
The Fund advisor will oppose an executive compensation proposal if we believe the compensation does not reflect the economic and social circumstances of the company (i.e. at times of layoffs, downsizing, employee wage freezes, etc.).
 
3.
Formation and Independence of Compensation Review Committee
 
The Fund advisor will support shareholder resolutions requesting the formation of a committee of independent directors to review and examine executive compensation.
 
4.
Stock Options for Board and Executives
 
The Fund advisor will generally oppose stock option plans that in total offer greater than 15% of shares outstanding because of voting and earnings dilution.
 

 
The Fund advisor will generally oppose option programs that allow the repricing of underwater options.  (Repricing divides shareholder and employee interests.  Shareholders cannot “reprice” their stock and, therefore, optionees should not be treated differently).
 
The Fund advisor will generally oppose stock option plans that have option exercise prices below the marketplace on the day of the grant.
 
The Fund advisor will generally support options programs for outside directors subject to the same constraints previously described.
 
5.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOPs)
 
The Fund advisor will support ESOPs created to promote active employee ownership.  However, they will oppose any ESOP whose purpose is to prevent a corporate takeover.
 
6.
Pay Equity
 
The Fund advisor will support shareholder resolutions that request that management provide a race and/or gender pay equity report.
 
7.
Ratio Between CEO and Worker Pay
 
The Fund advisor will generally support shareholder resolutions requesting that management report on the ratio between CEO and employee compensation.
 
8.
Maximum Ratio Between CEO and Worker Compensation and/or Cap on CEO Compensation
 
The Fund advisor will vote on a case-by-case basis shareholder resolutions requesting management to set a maximum ratio between CEO and employee compensation and/or a cap on CEO compensation.
 
9.
Changes to Charter or By-Laws
 
The Fund advisor will conduct a case-by-case review of the proposed changes with the voting decision resting on whether the proposed changes are in shareholder’s best interests.
 
10.
Confidential Voting
 
Typically, proxy voting differs from voting in political elections in that the company is made aware of shareholder votes as they are cast.  This enables management to contact dissenting shareholders in an attempt to get them to change their votes.
 
The Fund advisor will support confidential voting because the voting process should be free of coercion.
 
11.
Equal Access to Proxy
 
Equal access proposals ask companies to give shareholders access to proxy materials to state their views on contested issues, including director nominations.  In some cases, they would actually allow shareholders to nominate directors.  Companies suggest that such proposals would make an increasingly complex process even more burdensome.
 
In general, the Fund advisor will oppose resolutions for equal access proposals.
 

 
12.
Golden Parachutes
 
Golden parachutes are severance payments to top executives who are terminated or demoted pursuant to a takeover.  Companies argue that such provisions are necessary to keep executives from “jumping ship” during potential takeover attempts.
 
The Fund advisor will support the right of shareholders to vote on golden parachutes because they go above and beyond ordinary compensation practices.  In evaluating a particular golden parachute, we will examine total management compensation, the employees covered by the plan, and the quality of management.
 
C.
Mergers and Acquisitions
 
1.
Considering the Non-Financial Effects of a Merger Proposal
 
Such a proposal allows or requires the Board to consider the impact of merger decisions on various “stakeholders,” such as employees, communities, customers and business partners.  This proposal gives the Board the right to reject a tender offer on the grounds that it would adversely affect the company’s stakeholders.
 
The Fund advisor will support shareholder resolutions that consider non-financial impacts of mergers.
 
2.
Mergers, Restructuring and Spin-offs
 
A merger, restructuring, or spin-off in some way affects a change in control of the company’s assets.  In evaluating the merit of each issue, we will consider the terms of each proposal.  This will include an analysis of the potential long-term value of the investment.
 
The Fund advisor will support management proposals for merger or restructuring if the transaction appears to offer fair value and other proxy voting policies stated are not violated.  For example, the advisor may oppose restructuring resolution which include in it significant takeover defenses and may again oppose the merger of a non-nuclear and a nuclear utility if it poses potential liabilities.
 
3.
Poison Pills
 
Poison pills (or shareholder rights plans) are triggered by an unwanted takeover attempt and cause a variety of events to occur which may make the company financially less attractive to the suitor.  Typically, directors have enacted these plans without shareholder approval.  Most poison pill resolutions deal with putting poison pills up for a vote or repealing them altogether.
 
The Fund advisor will support proposals to put rights plans up for a shareholder vote.  In general, poison pills will be opposed unless management is able to present a convincing case fur such a plan.
 
4.
Anti-Greenmail Proposals
 
Greenmail is the payment a corporate raider receives in exchange for his/her shares.  This payment is usually at a premium to the market price, so while greenmail can ensure the continued independence of the company, it discriminates against other shareholders.
 
The Fund advisor will generally support greenmail provisions.
 

 
5.
Opt-Out of State Anti-Takeover Law
 
A strategy for dealing with anti-takeover issues has been a shareholder resolution asking for a company to opt-out of a particular state’s anti-takeover laws.
 
The Fund advisor will generally support bylaws changes requiring a company to opt-out of state anti-takeover laws.  However, resolutions requiring companies to opt-into state anti-takeover statutes will be opposed.

Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Information is presented as of July 31, 2007.

Portfolio Manager. Ms. Maria Eugenia Pichardo is the Portfolio Manager responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund, which includes making portfolio management decisions and executing transactions.
 
Ms. Pichardo has been the Fund's Portfolio Manager since the Fund's inception (1990).  She is also the President and General Partner of Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V. ("PAM') (the Fund's Investment Adviser) since February 2003.  Prior to starting PAM, from 1989 to 1990 she was General Director of Acci-Worldwide S.A. de C. V, a wholly owned subsidiary of Acciones y Valores de Mexico, S. A. de C.V member of the Banamex Financial Group, subsidiary of Citigroup. Ms Pichardo was Managing Director and General Director of the International Sales Department of Acciones y Valores de Mexico, S. A. de C. V from 1983 to 1989.

 
 
Portfolio Manager Name
Registered Investment
Company
(dollar amount and number of accounts)
 
 
Other Pooled
Investments
(dollar amount and number of accounts)
 
 
Other Accounts
(dollar amount and number of accounts)
 
Ms. Maria Eugenia Pichardo
$154,818,268 (1)
0 (0)
$8,373,910.19 (12)

Material Conflict of Interest. The Portfolio Manager has day-to-day management responsibilities with respect to other accounts and accordingly may be presented with potential or actual conflicts of interest. Conflicts of interest can arise in the allocation of securities to the various accounts when a security is purchased or sold over a period of time.   “PAM” has established policies and procedures to reduce the conflict of interest.

The management of other accounts may result in the Portfolio Manager devoting unequal time and attention to the management of the Fund and/or other accounts. In approving the Advisory Agreement, the Board of Directors was satisfied that the Portfolio Manager would be able to devote sufficient attention to the management of the Fund, and that PAM seeks to manage such competing interests for the time and attention of the portfolio manager.

Compensation.  Ms. Pichardo receives a fixed annual salary and bonus from PAM. Ms. Pichardo participates in a deferred compensation plan.
 

 
Securities Owned in the Fund by Portfolio Manager. As of July 31, 2007, the Portfolio Manager owned the following securities in the Fund:
 
Portfolio Manager Name
Dollar Range of Equity
Securities in the Fund
(None, $1-$10,000, $10,001-$50,000,
$50,001-$100,000, $100,001 - $500,000,
$500,001 to $1,000,000, Over $1,000,000)
Aggregate Dollar Range
of Securities in all Registered
Investment Companies Overseen
by Portfolio Manager in Family of
Investment Companies
Ms. Maria Eugenia Pichardo
None
None


Item 9. Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers.

Period
(a)
Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased
(b)
Average Price Paid per Share (or Unit)
(c)
Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
(d)
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
2/1/06 to 2/28/06
0
0
0
0
3/1/06 to 3/31/06
0
0
0
0
4/1/06 to 4/30/06
0
0
0
0
5/1/06 to 5/31/06
0
0
0
0
6/1/06 to 6/30/06
0
0
0
0
7/1/06 to 7/31/06
0
0
0
0
7/1/07 to 7/31/07
0
0
0
0
Total
0
0
0
0

Item 10. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

The registrant’s independent directors serve as its nominating committee, however they do not make use of a nominating committee charter.

Item 11. Controls and Procedures.

(a)  
The Registrant’s President and Chief Financial Officer have reviewed the Registrant's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Act”)) as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report, as required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the Act and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  Based on their review, such officers have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in this report is appropriately recorded, processed, summarized and reported and made known to them by others within the Registrant and by the Registrant’s service provider.

(b)  
There were no changes in the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Act) that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
 

 
Item 12. Exhibits.

(a)  
(1) Any code of ethics or amendment thereto, that is subject of the disclosure required by Item 2, to the extent that the registrant intends to satisfy Item 2 requirements through filing an exhibit. None.

(2) Certifications pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  Filed herewith.

(3) Any written solicitation to purchase securities under Rule 23c-1 under the Act sent or given during the period covered by the report by or on behalf of the registrant to 10 or more persons.  None.

(b)  
Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  Furnished herewith.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


(Registrant)   The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc.                        

By (Signature and Title)   /s/ Maria Eugenia Pichardo                             
Maria Eugenia Pichardo, President

Date   10/4/07                                                                                                   



Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

By (Signature and Title)   /s/ Maria Eugenia Pichardo                              
Maria Eugenia Pichardo, President 

Date   10/4/07                                                                                                   

By (Signature and Title)   /s/ Gerald Hellerman                                          
Gerald Hellerman, Chief Financial Officer

Date   10/5/07