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

811-22011

 

Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

522 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York

 

10036

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip code)

 

John H. Gernon

522 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10036

(Name and address of agent for service)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

212-296-0289

 

 

Date of fiscal year end:

October 31, 2014

 

 

Date of reporting period:

April 30, 2014

 

 



 

Item 1 - Report to Shareholders

 



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

Directors

Frank L. Bowman

Michael Bozic

Kathleen A. Dennis

James F. Higgins

Dr. Manuel H. Johnson

Joseph J. Kearns

Michael F. Klein

Michael E. Nugent

W. Allen Reed

Fergus Reid

Officers

Michael E. Nugent

Chairperson of the Board

John H. Gernon

President and Principal
Executive Officer

Stefanie V. Chang Yu

Chief Compliance Officer

Joseph C. Benedetti

Vice President

Francis J. Smith

Treasurer and Principal
Financial Officer

Mary E. Mullin

Secretary

Adviser and Administrator

Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc.

522 Fifth Avenue

New York, New York 10036

Custodian

State Street Bank and Trust Company

One Lincoln Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02111

Stockholder Servicing Agent

Computershare Trust Company, N.A.

211 Quality Circle, Suite 210

College Station, Texas 77845

Legal Counsel

Dechert LLP

1095 Avenue of the Americas

New York, New York 10036

Counsel to the Independent Directors

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

1177 Avenue of the Americas

New York, New York 10036  

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Ernst & Young LLP

200 Clarendon Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02116

For additional Fund information, including the Fund's net asset value per share and information regarding the investments comprising the Fund's portfolio, please call toll free 1 (800) 231-2608 or visit our website at www.morganstanley.com/im. All investments involve risks, including the possible loss of principal.

© 2014 Morgan Stanley.

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

Morgan Stanley
Investment Management Inc.
Adviser

Morgan Stanley

Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc. NYSE: EDD

Semi-Annual Report

April 30, 2014

CEEDDSAN
933508 EXP 6.30.15




Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Table of Contents

Letter to Stockholders

   

3

   

Portfolio of Investments

   

6

   

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

   

9

   

Statement of Operations

   

10

   

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

   

11

   

Statement of Cash Flows

   

12

   

Financial Highlights

   

13

   

Notes to Financial Statements

   

14

   

Portfolio Management

   

24

   

Investment Policy

   

25

   

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

   

29

   
U.S. Privacy Policy    

30

   


2



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Letter to Stockholders (unaudited)

Performance

For the six-months ended April 30, 2014, the Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") had total returns of -2.23%, based on net asset value, and -0.30% based on market value per share (including reinvestment of distributions), compared to its benchmark, the J.P. Morgan Government Bond Index — Emerging Markets Global Diversified Index (the "Index")*, which returned -1.48%. On April 30, 2014, the closing price of the Fund's shares on the New York Stock Exchange was $13.13, representing a 11.0% discount to the Fund's net asset value per share. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Factors Affecting Performance

•  Emerging markets (EM) remained under pressure through the end of 2013 and into the beginning of 2014. EM domestic debt yields rose and EM currencies weakened versus the U.S. dollar. Through the end of 2013, the U.S. Treasury 10-year yield rose to 3.03% (as per Bloomberg data), due to positive U.S. economic data releases, the U.S. Federal Reserve's (Fed) optimistic growth outlook, and signs of an improving labor market. This led to a widespread perception among investors that the Fed would begin "tapering" its bond buying sooner than previously expected. This expectation was validated by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) in December, as they announced their intention to reduce the size of asset purchases starting in January.

•  At the start of 2014, market sentiment soured on the back of negative headlines coming out of China, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, and deteriorating investors' perceptions towards externally vulnerable EM economies. In China, the potential default of a $500 million investment product raised concerns about both the growth outlook for the Chinese economy and the health of its shadow banking system. A last-minute bailout averted the imminent default, though it sparked criticism, as the government missed a chance to address moral hazard risks in the financial system.

•  Meanwhile, markets continued to exert pressure on economies with fragile external sectors and central banks perceived as behind-the-curve on raising interest rates. In an emergency meeting on January 28, the Central Bank of Turkey raised the marginal lending rate to 12% from 7.75%, and the benchmark repurchase rate to 10% from 4.50%. In turn, the next day, South Africa's central bank hiked its policy rate by 50 basis points to 5.50%, citing inflation concerns from currency weakness. In Argentina, the central bank allowed the currency to depreciate by more than 15% during the January 22-January 31, 2014 period, while partially easing restrictions on dollar purchases for individuals.

•  Despite these negative developments, market sentiment nonetheless improved towards emerging markets starting in February and continuing through April 2014, driven by attractive valuations after the sell-off in the fourth quarter of 2013 and the first hints of stabilization in externally vulnerable countries, as their respective governments responded more proactively. In addition, fund flows out of the asset class decelerated substantially in March, contributing to improved market sentiment and positive fund flows for the month of April.


3



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Letter to Stockholders (unaudited) (cont'd)

•  The market saw considerable political turmoil in several EM countries, most notably Ukraine, Venezuela, Turkey, and Thailand.

  •  Political instability in Ukraine intensified as the resignation of Prime Minister Azarov's cabinet and other concessions from President Yanukovych failed to appease protesters. Maidan Square protesters eventually succeeded in bringing down President Yanukovych's regime. However, the initial optimism quickly faded as separatist tensions in the Crimean Peninsula led to a Russian annexation of the region. The annexation of Crimea and the large scale build-up of troops near Eastern Ukraine triggered European Union and U.S. travel bans and asset freezes of individuals close to the Kremlin, which Russia responded to in a tit-for-tat fashion. The focus of the conflict then moved to Eastern Ukraine, as pro-Russian groups seized government buildings in the Donetsk and Luhansk provinces and called for a regional referendum on May 11 to join Russia. One positive development, however, was the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approval of a $17 billion financial aid package to Ukraine.

  •  The political stalemate in Thailand continued. Parliamentary elections took place on February 2, as planned. Nonetheless, the caretaker government of Yingluck Shinawatra faced relentless prosecution by anti-corruption agencies and other judiciary bodies.

  •  Meanwhile, political tensions rose in Venezuela, on the back of deadly street protests and the arrest of an important opposition figure. Eventually Venezuelan assets regained some ground on the market's belief that pragmatists in the Maduro administration had gained the upper hand in policymaking, as revealed by market-friendly initiatives being implemented, such as a daily auction system that enables companies and individuals to access U.S. dollars, and incipient price liberalization in a set of goods markets.

  •  In Turkey, political turmoil flared, as new tapes involving Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan in corruption scandals were released to the public ahead of local elections in March. Prime Minister Erdogan eventually received strong support in local elections on March 30, as the incumbent AK Party (Justice and Development Party or AKP) received more than 45% of the votes, defeating opposition parties CHP (Republican People's Party) and MHP (Nationalist Movement Party) by a wide margin. Protests last year and serious corruption allegations involving senior government officials and AKP members failed to harm Erdogan, who must soon decide whether to run for the presidency or attempt a fourth term as prime minister. Investors saw the election outcome as favorable for economic policy continuity, and asset prices responded favorably, with a substantial rally in Turkish local and external bonds, as well as the Turkish lira leading into and right after the elections.

•  The Fund benefited from overweight allocations to Malaysia, Poland, and Indonesia. Security selection and an overweight position in Mexico also contributed to relative performance, as did the Fund's short position in U.S. Treasury futures, which are used to help manage interest rate sensitivity.

•  Conversely, overweight positioning in Russia and Turkey detracted from relative performance, as did an overweight in the Brazilian real.


4



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Letter to Stockholders (unaudited) (cont'd)

Management Strategies

•  We expect EM domestic debt may perform well in the medium term. We believe there are opportunities to add selectively to the Fund, primarily in those countries with comfortable external positions and favorable growth prospects. We remain marginally cautious, as the macroeconomic adjustment towards higher real rates and lower current account deficits has not reached its full conclusion. In this regard, we will be watching policy makers closely to ensure that they remain committed to adjustment, as the recent rally in EM currencies and local rates may reduce their incentives to follow up on policies ensuring macro rebalancing.

•  The current year features a busy electoral calendar with major contests in countries such as Turkey, South Africa, Colombia, Indonesia, Ukraine, and Brazil. In such a context, political developments should continue to be monitored closely, given their potential to significantly affect returns in EM debt. Finally, heightened geopolitical risks in Russia and Ukraine are likely to keep volatility at above-normal levels for the next few months.

Sincerely,

John H. Gernon
President and Principal Executive Officer  May 2014

*J.P. Morgan Government Bond Index — Emerging Markets Global Diversified Index tracks local currency government bonds issued by emerging markets. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.


5




Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited)

(Showing Percentage of Total Value of Investments)



  Face
Amount
(000)
 
Value
(000)
 

FIXED INCOME SECURITIES (99.4%)

 

Brazil (11.3%)

 

Sovereign (11.3%)

 
Banco Nacional de
Desenvolvimento
Economico e Social,
5.50%, 7/12/20
 

$

67,818

   

$

72,820

   

6.50%, 6/10/19

   

14,095

     

15,857

   
Brazil Notas do Tesouro
Nacional, Series F,
10.00%, 1/1/17
 

BRL

159,200

     

68,048

   
         

156,725

   

Chile (0.6%)

 

Sovereign (0.6%)

 
Chile Government
International Bond,
5.50%, 8/5/20
 

CLP

4,665,000

     

8,505

   

Colombia (3.9%)

 

Sovereign (3.9%)

 
Colombia Government
International Bond,
7.75%, 4/14/21
 

COP

29,000,000

     

16,986

   

9.85%, 6/28/27

   

46,000,000

     

31,124

   

12.00%, 10/22/15

   

11,000,000

     

6,275

   
         

54,385

   

Hungary (8.2%)

 

Sovereign (8.2%)

 
Hungary Government Bond,
6.75%, 2/24/17
 

HUF

8,500,000

     

41,603

   

7.50%, 11/12/20

   

13,980,000

     

72,457

   
         

114,060

   

Indonesia (6.1%)

 

Sovereign (6.1%)

 
Barclays Bank PLC,
Indonesia Government
Bonds, Credit Linked
Notes,
10.00%, 7/17/17 (a)(b)
 

IDR

360,000,000

     

33,487

   
Credit Suisse, Indonesia
Government Bonds,
Credit Linked Notes,
10.00%, 7/17/17
   

154,683,530

     

14,388

   


  Face
Amount
(000)
 
Value
(000)
 
Deutsche Bank AG, Republic
of Indonesia Government
Bond, Credit Linked Notes,
11.00%, 12/15/20 (a)(b)
 

IDR

60,000,000

   

$

6,041

   
JPMorgan Chase Bank,
London, Indonesia
Government Bonds, Credit
Linked Notes,
8.25%, 7/17/21
   

135,000,000

     

11,893

   

10.00%, 7/19/17(b)

   

192,525,000

     

17,908

   
         

83,717

   

Malaysia (9.3%)

 

Sovereign (9.3%)

 
Malaysia Government Bond,
3.48%, 3/15/23
 

MYR

224,480

     

65,908

   

3.84%, 8/12/15

   

110,000

     

34,006

   

4.18%, 7/15/24

   

95,000

     

29,312

   
         

129,226

   

Mexico (13.7%)

 

Sovereign (13.7%)

 
Mexican Bonos,
7.50%, 6/3/27
 

MXN

72,585

     

6,030

   

8.00%, 6/11/20

   

1,094,027

     

94,611

   

8.50%, 5/31/29

   

290,400

     

25,820

   
Petroleos Mexicanos (Units),
7.65%, 11/24/21 (a)(c)
   

791,300

     

63,420

   
         

189,881

   

Peru (3.7%)

 

Sovereign (3.7%)

 
Peru Government Bond,
7.84%, 8/12/20
 

PEN

37,745

     

15,038

   
Peruvian Government
International Bond (Units),
7.84%, 8/12/20 (c)
   

57,000

     

22,709

   

8.20%, 8/12/26 (c)

   

32,110

     

13,254

   
         

51,001

   

Philippines (1.1%)

 

Sovereign (1.1%)

 
Philippine Government
International Bond,
4.95%, 1/15/21
 

PHP

648,000

     

15,226

   

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


6



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) (cont'd)



  Face
Amount
(000)
 
Value
(000)
 

Poland (11.2%)

 

Sovereign (11.2%)

 
Poland Government Bond,
3.75%, 4/25/18
 

PLN

18,547

   

$

6,227

   

5.25%, 10/25/20

   

314,000

     

113,014

   

5.50%, 10/25/19

   

98,947

     

35,844

   
         

155,085

   

Romania (1.3%)

 

Sovereign (1.3%)

 
Romania Government Bond,
5.90%, 7/26/17
 

RON

53,290

     

17,640

   

Russia (10.5%)

 

Corporate Bond (0.7%)

 
VimpelCom Holdings BV,
9.00%, 2/13/18 (a)
 

RUB

378,100

     

9,981

   

Sovereign (9.8%)

 
Russian Federal Bond — OFZ,
7.05%, 1/19/28
   

1,775,000

     

41,284

   

8.15%, 2/3/27

   

2,171,800

     

56,116

   
Russian Foreign Bond —
Eurobond,
7.85%, 3/10/18
   

290,000

     

7,841

   

7.85%, 3/10/18 (a)

   

1,095,000

     

29,609

   
         

134,850

   
         

144,831

   

South Africa (9.3%)

 

Sovereign (9.3%)

 
Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd.,
5.75%, 1/26/21
 

$

47,400

     

49,059

   
South Africa Government
Bond,
6.75%, 3/31/21
 

ZAR

774,700

     

68,377

   

7.25%, 1/15/20

   

114,524

     

10,521

   
         

127,957

   

Thailand (0.9%)

 

Sovereign (0.9%)

 
Thailand Government Bond,
3.63%, 6/16/23
 

THB

380,000

     

11,839

   


  Face
Amount
(000)
 
Value
(000)
 

Turkey (8.3%)

 

Corporate Bond (3.4%)

 
Turkiye Garanti Bankasi AS,
7.38%, 3/7/18 (a)
 

TRY

111,480

   

$

47,151

   

Sovereign (4.9%)

 
Turkey Government Bond,
10.50%, 1/15/20
   

135,825

     

68,281

   
         

115,432

   
TOTAL FIXED INCOME SECURITIES
(Cost $1,400,701)
       

1,375,510

   
   

Shares

     

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT (0.6%)

 

Investment Company (0.6%)

 
Morgan Stanley Institutional
Liquidity Funds — Money Market
Portfolio — Institutional Class
(See Note F) (Cost $7,858)
   

7,857,615

     

7,858

   
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (100.0%) (Cost $1,408,559)        

1,383,368

   

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS

       

(341,413

)

 

NET ASSETS

     

$

1,041,955

   

(a)  144A security — Certain conditions for public sale may exist. Unless otherwise noted, these securities are deemed to be liquid.

(b)  Variable/Floating Rate Security — Interest rate changes on these instruments are based on changes in a designated base rate. The rates shown are those in effect on April 30, 2014.

(c)  Consists of one or more classes of securities traded together as a unit.

OFZ  Obilgatsyi Federal'novo Zaima (Russian Federal Loan Obligation)

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


7



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) (cont'd)

BRL —  Brazilian Real

CLP —  Chilean Peso

COP —  Colombian Peso

HUF —  Hungarian Forint

IDR —  Indonesian Rupiah

MXN —  Mexican Peso

MYR —  Malaysian Ringgit

PEN —  Peruvian Nuevo Sol

PHP —  Philippine Peso

PLN —  Polish Zloty

RON —  Romanian New Leu

RUB —  Russian Ruble

THB —  Thai Baht

TRY —  Turkish Lira

ZAR —  South African Rand

Portfolio Composition

Classification

  Percentage of
Total Investments
 

Sovereign

   

95.3

%

 

Other*

   

4.7

   

Total Investments

   

100.0

%

 

* Industries and/or investment types representing less than 5% of total investments.

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


8




Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Financial Statements

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

  April 30, 2014
(unaudited)
(000)
 

Assets:

 

Investments in Securities of Unaffiliated Issuers, at Value (Cost $1,400,701)

 

$

1,375,510

   

Investment in Security of Affiliated Issuer, at Value (Cost $7,858)

   

7,858

   

Total Investments in Securities, at Value (Cost $1,408,559)

   

1,383,368

   

Foreign Currency, at Value (Cost $16,000)

   

16,033

   

Interest Receivable

   

29,294

   

Receivable for Lehman Brothers Closed Reverse Repurchase Transactions

   

14,647

   

Receivable from Affiliate

   

1

   

Other Assets

   

292

   

Total Assets

   

1,443,635

   

Liabilities:

 

Payable for Line of Credit

   

400,048

   

Payable for Advisory Fees

   

1,179

   

Payable for Custodian Fees

   

148

   

Payable for Administration Fees

   

94

   

Payable for Professional Fees

   

80

   

Payable for Stockholder Servicing Agent Fees

   

1

   

Other Liabilities

   

130

   

Total Liabilities

   

401,680

   

Net Assets

 

Applicable to 70,585,657 Issued and Outstanding $0.01 Par Value Shares (100,000,000 Shares Authorized)

 

$

1,041,955

   

Net Asset Value Per Share

 

$

14.76

   

Net Assets Consist of:

 

Common Stock

 

$

706

   

Paid-in-Capital

   

1,278,633

   

Accumulated Undistributed Net Investment Income

   

1,209

   

Accumulated Net Realized Loss

   

(214,318

)

 

Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on:

 

Investments

   

(25,191

)

 

Foreign Currency Translations

   

916

   

Net Assets

 

$

1,041,955

   

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


9



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Financial Statements (cont'd)

Statement of Operations

  Six Months Ended
April 30, 2014
(unaudited)
(000)
 

Investment Income:

 

Interest from Securities of Unaffiliated Issuers

 

$

43,788

   

Dividends from Security of Affiliated Issuer (Note F)

   

11

   

Total Investment Income

   

43,799

   

Expenses:

 

Advisory Fees (Note B)

   

7,219

   

Administration Fees (Note C)

   

578

   

Custodian Fees (Note D)

   

388

   

Administrative Fees on Line of Credit (Note G)

   

198

   

Stockholder Reporting Expenses

   

98

   

Professional Fees

   

94

   

Directors' Fees and Expenses

   

14

   

Stockholder Servicing Agent Fees

   

4

   

Other Expenses

   

69

   

Expenses Before Non Operating Expenses

   

8,662

   

Interest Expense on Line of Credit (Note G)

   

2,938

   

Total Expenses

   

11,600

   

Rebate from Morgan Stanley Affiliate (Note F)

   

(27

)

 

Net Expenses

   

11,573

   

Net Investment Income

   

32,226

   

Realized Gain (Loss):

 

Investments Sold

   

(176,557

)

 

Foreign Currency Forward Exchange Contracts

   

793

   

Foreign Currency Transactions

   

(7,172

)

 

Futures Contracts

   

913

   

Net Realized Loss

   

(182,023

)

 

Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation):

 

Investments

   

108,101

   

Foreign Currency Translations

   

1,085

   

Futures Contracts

   

937

   

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation)

   

110,123

   

Net Realized Loss and Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation)

   

(71,900

)

 

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

 

$

(39,674

)

 

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


10



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Financial Statements (cont'd)

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

  Six Months Ended
April 30, 2014
(unaudited)
(000)
  Year Ended
October 31,
2013
(000)
 

Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets

 

Operations:

 

Net Investment Income

 

$

32,226

   

$

85,581

   

Net Realized Gain (Loss)

   

(182,023

)

   

11,859

   

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation)

   

110,123

     

(120,115

)

 

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

   

(39,674

)

   

(22,675

)

 

Distributions from and/or in Excess of:

 

Net Investment Income

   

(45,646

)

   

(72,155

)

 

Net Realized Gain

   

(36,014

)

   

   

Total Distributions

   

(81,660

)

   

(72,155

)

 

Capital Share Transactions:

 

Repurchase of Shares (679,747 and 1,166,132 shares)

   

(8,730

)

   

(16,252

)

 

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Capital Share Transactions

   

(8,730

)

   

(16,252

)

 

Total Decrease

   

(130,064

)

   

(111,082

)

 

Net Assets:

 

Beginning of Period

   

1,172,019

     

1,283,101

   
End of Period (Including Accumulated Undistributed Net Investment Income of
$1,209 and $14,629)
 

$

1,041,955

   

$

1,172,019

   

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


11



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Financial Statements (cont'd)

Statement of Cash Flows

  Six Months Ended
April 30, 2014
(unaudited)
(000)
 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities:

 

Proceeds from Sales and Maturities of Long-Term Investments

 

$

946,433

   

Purchase of Long-Term Investments

   

(885,136

)

 

Net (Increase) Decrease in Short-Term Investments

   

6,283

   

Net (Increase) Decrease in Foreign Currency Holdings

   

(8,413

)

 
Net Realized Gain (Loss) for Foreign Currency Transactions, Foreign Currency
Forward Exchange Contracts and Futures Contracts
   

(5,466

)

 

Net Investment Income

   

32,226

   

Adjustments to Reconcile Net Investment Income to Net Cash Provided for (Used by) Operating Activities:

 

Net (Increase) Decrease in Receivables Related to Operations

   

3,015

   

Net (Increase) Decrease in Payables Related to Operations

   

(117

)

 

Accretion/Amortization of Discounts and Premiums

   

2,073

   

Net Cash Provided for (Used by) Operating Activities

   

90,898

   

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:

 

Cash Paid for Line of Credit

   

   

Cash Paid for Repurchase of Shares

   

(9,238

)

 

Cash Distribution Paid

   

(81,660

)

 

Net Cash Provided for (Used by) Financing Activities

   

(90,898

)

 

Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash

   

   

Cash at Beginning of Period

   

   

Cash at End of Period

 

$

   

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:

 

Interest Paid on Line of Credit during the Period

 

$

3,037

   

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


12



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Financial Highlights

Selected Per Share Data and Ratios

    Six Months Ended
April 30, 2014
 

Year Ended October 31,

 
   

(unaudited)

 

2013

 

2012

 

2011

 

2010

 

2009

 

Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period

 

$

16.45

   

$

17.71

   

$

17.34

   

$

18.58

   

$

16.17

   

$

12.61

   

Net Investment Income†

   

0.45

     

1.19

     

1.32

     

1.52

     

1.46

     

1.37

   

Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

   

(1.01

)

   

(1.48

)

   

0.20

     

(1.56

)

   

2.15

     

3.40

   

Total from Investment Operations

   

(0.56

)

   

(0.29

)

   

1.52

     

(0.04

)

   

3.61

     

4.77

   

Distributions from and/or in excess of:

 

Net Investment Income

   

(0.64

)

   

(1.00

)

   

(1.15

)

   

(1.20

)

   

(1.20

)

   

(0.50

)

 

Net Realized Gain

   

(0.51

)

   

     

     

     

     

   

Return of Capital

   

     

     

     

     

     

(0.75

)

 

Total Distributions

   

(1.15

)

   

(1.00

)

   

(1.15

)

   

(1.20

)

   

(1.20

)

   

(1.25

)

 

Anti-Dilutive Effect of Share Repurchase Program

   

0.02

     

0.03

     

     

     

     

0.04

   

Net Asset Value, End of Period

 

$

14.76

   

$

16.45

   

$

17.71

   

$

17.34

   

$

18.58

   

$

16.17

   

Per Share Market Value, End of Period

 

$

13.13

   

$

14.35

   

$

16.47

   

$

15.87

   

$

17.29

   

$

13.75

   

TOTAL INVESTMENT RETURN:

 

Market Value

   

(0.30

)%#

   

(7.21

)%

   

11.38

%

   

(1.34

)%

   

35.60

%

   

57.23

%

 

Net Asset Value(1)

   

(2.23

)%#

   

(1.08

)%

   

9.61

%

   

0.32

%

   

23.83

%

   

42.32

%

 

RATIOS, SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:

 

Net Assets, End of Period (Thousands)

 

$

1,041,955

   

$

1,172,019

   

$

1,283,101

   

$

1,255,618

   

$

1,345,669

   

$

1,171,520

   

Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets(2)

   

2.20

%+*

   

2.10

%+

   

2.16

%+

   

2.07

%+

   

2.28

%+

   

2.20

%+

 
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets
Excluding Non Operating Expenses
   

1.65

%+*

   

1.59

%+

   

1.59

%+

   

1.55

%+

   

1.62

%+

   

1.58

%+

 
Ratio of Net Investment Income to Average
Net Assets(2)
   

6.14

%+*

   

6.72

%+

   

7.63

%+

   

8.36

%+

   

8.61

%+

   

9.60

%+

 
Ratio of Rebate from Morgan Stanley Affiliates
to Average Net Assets
   

0.01

%*

   

0.00

   

0.00

   

0.00

   

0.00

   

0.00

 

Portfolio Turnover Rate

   

66

%#

   

75

%

   

64

%

   

100

%

   

42

%

   

74

%

 

(2) Supplemental Information on the Ratios to Average Net Assets:

 

Ratios Before Expenses Waived by Administrator:

 

Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets

   

2.21

%*

   

N/A

     

N/A

     

N/A

     

N/A

     

N/A

   
Ratio of Net Investment Income to Average
Net Assets
   

6.13

%*

   

N/A

     

N/A

     

N/A

     

N/A

     

N/A

   

(1)  Total investment return based on net asset value per share reflects the effects of changes in net asset value on the performance of the Fund during each period, and assumes dividends and distributions, if any, were reinvested. This percentage is not an indication of the performance of a stockholder's investment in the Fund based on market value due to differences between the market price of the stock and the net asset value per share of the Fund.

†  Per share amount is based on average shares outstanding.

+  The Ratios of Expenses and Net Investment Income reflect the rebate of certain Fund expenses in connection with the investments in Morgan Stanley affiliates during the period. The effect of the rebate on the ratios is disclosed in the above table as "Ratio of Rebate from Morgan Stanley Affiliates to Average Net Assets."

§  Amount is less than 0.005%.

#  Not annualized.

*  Annualized.

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


13




Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited)

The Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") was incorporated in Maryland on January 25, 2007 and is registered as a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act"). The Fund's primary investment objective is to seek a high level of current income, with a secondary investment objective of long-term capital appreciation. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objectives by investing, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its managed assets in emerging markets domestic debt. To the extent the Fund invests in derivative instruments that Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. (the "Adviser"), believes have economic characteristics similar to such securities, such investments will be counted for purposes of the Fund's policy described in the previous sentence. To the extent the Fund makes such investments, the Fund will be subject to the risk of such derivative instruments as described herein.

A.  Significant Accounting Policies:  The following significant accounting policies are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). Such policies are consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements. GAAP may require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

1.  Security Valuation:  (1) Bonds and other fixed income securities may be valued according to the broadest and most representative market. In addition, bonds and other fixed income securities may be valued on the basis of prices provided by a pricing service. The prices provided by a pricing service take into account broker-dealer market price quotations for institutional size trading in similar groups of securities, security quality, maturity, coupon and other security characteristics as well as any developments related to the specific securities; (2) futures are valued at the latest price published by the commodities exchange on which

they trade; (3) when market quotations are not readily available, including circumstances under which the Adviser determines that the closing price, last sale price or the mean between the last reported bid and asked prices are not reflective of a security's market value, portfolio securities are valued at their fair value as determined in good faith under procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Fund's Board of Directors (the "Directors"). Occasionally, developments affecting the closing prices of securities and other assets may occur between the times at which valuations of such securities are determined (that is, close of the foreign market on which the securities trade) and the close of business of the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE"). If developments occur during such periods that are expected to materially affect the value of such securities, such valuations may be adjusted to reflect the estimated fair value of such securities as of the close of the NYSE, as determined in good faith by the Directors or by the Adviser using a pricing service and/or procedures approved by the Directors; (4) quotations of foreign portfolio securities, other assets and liabilities and forward contracts stated in foreign currency are translated into U.S. dollar equivalents at the prevailing market rates prior to the close of the NYSE; (5) investments in mutual funds, including the Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds, are valued at the net asset value as of the close of each business day; and (6) short-term debt securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or less at the time of purchase may be valued at amortized cost, unless the Adviser determines such valuation does not reflect the securities' market value, in which case these securities will be valued at their fair market value determined by the Adviser.

  Under procedures approved by the Directors, the Fund's Adviser has formed a Valuation Committee. The Valuation Committee provides administration and oversight of the


14



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

Fund's valuation policies and procedures, which are reviewed at least annually by the Directors. These procedures allow the Fund to utilize independent pricing services, quotations from securities and financial instrument dealers, and other market sources to determine fair value.

  The Fund has procedures to determine the fair value of securities and other financial instruments for which market prices are not readily available. Under these procedures, the Valuation Committee convenes on a regular and ad hoc basis to review such securities and considers a number of factors, including valuation methodologies and significant unobservable valuation inputs, when arriving at fair value. The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the investment to determine the fair value of the investment. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the investment are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the investments. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuations of such investments, the fair values may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had an active market existed. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing or disposition analysis, and reviews of any related market activity.

2.  Fair Value Measurement: Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards CodificationTM ("ASC") 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures" ("ASC 820"), defines fair value as the value that the Fund would receive to sell an investment or

pay to transfer a liability in a timely transaction with an independent buyer in the principal market, or in the absence of a principal market the most advantageous market for the investment or liability. ASC 820 establishes a three-tier hierarchy to distinguish between (1) inputs that reflect the assumptions market participants would use in valuing an asset or liability developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs) and (2) inputs that reflect the reporting entity's own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in valuing an asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs) and to establish classification of fair value measurements for disclosure purposes. Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund's investments. The inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below.

•  Level 1 – unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical investments

•  Level 2 – other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar investments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.)

•  Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs including the Fund's own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer's financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances

  The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities and the determination of the significance of a particular input to the fair value


15



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to each security.

The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund's investments as of April 30, 2014.

Investment Type

  Level 1
Unadjusted
quoted
prices
(000)
  Level 2
Other
significant
observable
inputs
(000)
  Level 3
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(000)
  Total
(000)
 

Assets:

 
Fixed Income
Securities
 
Corporate
Bonds
 

$

   

$

57,132

   

$

   

$

57,132

   

Sovereign

   

     

1,318,378

     

     

1,318,378

   
Total Fixed
Income
Securities
   

     

1,375,510

     

     

1,375,510

   
Short-Term
Investment
 
Investment
Company
   

7,858

     

     

     

7,858

   

Total Assets

 

$

7,858

   

$

1,375,510

   

$

   

$

1,383,368

   

  Transfers between investment levels may occur as the markets fluctuate and/or the availability of data used in an investment's valuation changes. The Fund recognizes transfers between the levels as of the end of the period. As of April 30, 2014, the Fund did not have any investments transfer between investment levels.

3.  Foreign Currency Translation and Foreign Investments:  The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Foreign currency amounts are translated into U.S. dollars as follows:

—  investments, other assets and liabilities at the prevailing rate of exchange on the valuation date;

—  investment transactions and investment income at the prevailing rates of exchange on the dates of such transactions.

  Although the net assets of the Fund are presented at the foreign exchange rates and market values at the close of the period, the Fund does not isolate that portion of the results of operations arising as a result of changes in the foreign exchange rates from the fluctuations arising from changes in the market prices of securities held at period end. Similarly, the Fund does not isolate the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from the fluctuations arising from changes in the market prices of securities sold during the period. Accordingly, realized and unrealized foreign currency gains (losses) on investments in securities are included in the reported net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investment transactions and balances. However, pursuant to U.S. Federal income tax regulations, gains and losses from certain foreign currency transactions and the foreign currency portion of gains and losses realized on sales and maturities of foreign denominated debt securities are treated as ordinary income for U.S. Federal income tax purposes.

  Net realized gains (losses) on foreign currency transactions represent net foreign exchange gains (losses) from foreign currency forward exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies, currency gains (losses) realized between the trade and settlement dates on securities transactions, and the difference between the amount of investment income and foreign withholding taxes recorded on the Fund's books and the U.S. dollar equivalent amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized currency gains (losses) from valuing foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities at period end exchange rates are reflected as a component of unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translations in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The change in unrealized currency gains (losses) on foreign currency translations for the period is reflected in the Statement of Operations.


16



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

  A significant portion of the Fund's net assets consist of securities of issuers located in emerging markets, which are denominated in foreign currencies. Such securities may be concentrated in a limited number of countries and regions and may vary throughout the year. Changes in currency exchange rates will affect the value of and investment income from foreign currency denominated securities. Emerging market securities are often subject to greater price volatility, limited capitalization and liquidity, and higher rates of inflation than U.S. securities. In addition, emerging market issuers may be subject to substantial governmental involvement in the economy and greater social, economic and political uncertainty.

4.  Structured Investments: The Fund invested a portion of its assets in structured investments. A structured investment is a derivative security designed to offer a return linked to a particular underlying security, currency, commodity or market. Structured investments may come in various forms including notes (such as exchange-traded notes), warrants and options to purchase securities. The Fund will typically use structured investments to gain exposure to a permitted underlying security, currency, commodity or market when direct access to a market is limited or inefficient from a tax or cost standpoint. There can be no assurance that structured investments will trade at the same price or have the same value as the underlying security, currency, commodity or market. Investments in structured investments involve risks including issuer risk, counterparty risk and market risk. Holders of structured investments bear risks of the underlying investment and are subject to issuer or counterparty risk because the Fund is relying on the creditworthiness of such issuer or counterparty and has no rights with respect to the underlying investment. Certain structured investments may be thinly traded or have a limited trading market and may have the effect of increasing the Fund's illiquidity to the

extent that the Fund, at a particular time, may be unable to find qualified buyers for these securities.

5.  Derivatives: The Fund may, but is not required to, use derivative instruments for a variety of purposes, including hedging, risk management, portfolio management or to earn income. Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is based, in part, on the value of an underlying asset, interest rate, index or financial instrument. Prevailing interest rates and volatility levels, among other things, also affect the value of derivative instruments. A derivative instrument often has risks similar to its underlying asset and may have additional risks, including imperfect correlation between the value of the derivative and the underlying asset, risks of default by the counterparty to certain transactions, magnification of losses incurred due to changes in the market value of the securities, instruments, indices or interest rates to which the derivative instrument relates, risks that the transactions may not be liquid and risks arising from margin requirements. The use of derivatives involves risks that are different from, and possibly greater than, the risks associated with other portfolio investments. Derivatives may involve the use of highly specialized instruments that require investment techniques and risk analyses different from those associated with other portfolio investments. All of the Fund's holdings, including derivative instruments, are marked-to-market each day with the change in value reflected in unrealized appreciation (depreciation). Upon disposition, a realized gain or loss is recognized.

  Certain derivative transactions may give rise to a form of leverage. Leverage magnifies the potential for gain and the risk of loss. Leverage associated with derivative transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate portfolio positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations or to meet earmarking or segregation requirements, pursuant to applicable Securities and Exchange


17



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

Commission rules and regulations, or may cause the Fund to be more volatile than if the Fund had not been leveraged. Although the Adviser seeks to use derivatives to further the Fund's investment objectives, there is no assurance that the use of derivatives will achieve this result.

  Following is a description of the derivative instruments and techniques that the Fund used during the period and their associated risks:

  Futures: A futures contract is a standardized, exchange-traded agreement to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying asset, reference rate or index at a specific price at a specific future time. The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of the underlying instrument. Depending on the terms of the particular contract, futures contracts are settled through either physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash settlement amount on the settlement date. During the period the futures contract is open, payments are received from or made to the broker based upon changes in the value of the contract (the variation margin). A decision as to whether, when and how to use futures contracts involves the exercise of skill and judgment and even a well-conceived futures transaction may be unsuccessful because of market behavior or unexpected events. In addition to the derivatives risks discussed above, the prices of futures contracts can be highly volatile, using futures contracts can lower total return, and the potential loss from futures contracts can exceed the Fund's initial investment in such contracts. No assurance can be given that a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. There is also the risk of loss by the Fund of margin deposits in the event of bankruptcy of a broker with whom the Fund has open positions in the futures contract. As of April 30, 2014, the Fund did not have any open futures contracts.

  Foreign Currency Forward Exchange Contracts: In connection with its investments in foreign securities, the Fund also entered into contracts with banks, brokers or dealers to purchase or sell securities or foreign currencies at a future date. A foreign currency forward exchange contract ("currency contract") is a negotiated agreement between the contracting parties to exchange a specified amount of currency at a specified future time at a specified rate. The rate can be higher or lower than the spot rate between the currencies that are the subject of the contract. Currency contracts may be used to protect against uncertainty in the level of future foreign currency exchange rates or to gain or modify exposure to a particular currency. To the extent hedged by the use of currency contracts, the precise matching of the currency contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not generally be possible because the future value of such securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the value of those securities between the date on which the contract is entered into and the date it matures. Furthermore, such transactions reduce or preclude the opportunity for gain if the value of the currency should move in the direction opposite to the position taken. There is additional risk to the extent that currency contracts create exposure to currencies in which the Fund's securities are not denominated. Unanticipated changes in currency prices may result in poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not entered into such contracts. The use of currency contracts involves the risk of loss from the insolvency or bankruptcy of the counterparty to the contract or the failure of the counterparty to make payments or otherwise comply with the terms of the contract. A currency contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded by the Fund as unrealized gain or loss. The Fund records realized gains (losses) when the currency contract is closed equal to the difference between the value of the currency contract at the time it was opened and the value at


18



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

the time it was closed. As of April 30, 2014, the Fund did not have any open currency contracts.

  FASB ASC 815, "Derivatives and Hedging: Overall" ("ASC 815"), is intended to improve financial reporting about derivative instruments by requiring enhanced disclosures to enable investors to better understand how and why the Fund uses derivative instruments, how these derivative instruments are accounted for and their effects on the Fund's financial position and results of operations.

  The following tables set forth by primary risk exposure the Fund's realized gains (losses) and change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) by type of derivative contract for the six months ended April 30, 2014 in accordance with ASC 815.

Realized Gain (Loss)

 

Primary Risk Exposure

  Derivative
Type
  Value
(000)
 

Currency Risk
  Foreign Currency Forward
Exchange Contracts
 

$

793

   

Interest Rate Risk

 

Futures Contracts

   

913

   

Total

     

$

1,706

   

Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation)

 

Primary Risk Exposure

  Derivative
Type
  Value
(000)
 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Futures Contracts

 

$

937

   

  For the six months ended April 30, 2014, the approximate average monthly amount outstanding for each derivative type is as follows:

Foreign Currency Forward Exchange Contracts:

 

Average monthly principal amount

 

$

54,331,000

   

Futures Contracts:

 

Average monthly original value

 

$

58,537,000

   

6.  Indemnifications: The Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of indemnifications. The Fund's maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown. However, the Fund has not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.

7.  Other: Security transactions are accounted for on the date the securities are purchased or sold. Realized gains (losses) on the sale of investment securities are determined on the specific identified cost basis. Interest income is recognized on the accrual basis except where collection is in doubt and is recorded net of foreign withholding tax. Dividend income and distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date (except for certain dividends which may be recorded as soon as the Fund is informed of such dividends) net of applicable withholding taxes.

B.  Advisory Fees:  The Adviser, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Morgan Stanley, provides the Fund with advisory services under the terms of an Investment Advisory Agreement, calculated weekly and payable monthly, at an annual rate of 1.00% of the Fund's average weekly managed assets.

C.  Administration Fees: The Adviser also serves as Administrator to the Fund and provides administrative services pursuant to an Administration Agreement for an annual fee, accrued daily and paid monthly, of 0.08% of the Fund's average weekly managed assets. Under a Sub-Administration Agreement between the Administrator and State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street"), State Street provides certain administrative services to the Fund. For such services, the Administrator pays State Street a portion of the fee the Administrator receives from the Fund.

D.  Custodian Fees: State Street (the "Custodian") and its affiliates serve as Custodian for the Fund. The Custodian holds cash, securities, and other assets of the Fund as required by the


19



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

Act. Custody fees are payable monthly based on assets held in custody, investment purchases and sales activity and account maintenance fees, plus reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses.

E.  Federal Income Taxes:  It is the Fund's intention to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company and distribute all of its taxable income. Accordingly, no provision for Federal income taxes is required in the financial statements.

The Fund may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on income and/or capital gains earned or repatriated. Taxes are accrued and applied to net investment income, net realized gains and net unrealized appreciation as such income and/or gains are earned. Taxes may also be based on transactions in foreign currency and are accrued based on the value of investments denominated in such currency.

FASB ASC 740-10 "Income Taxes — Overall" sets forth a minimum threshold for financial statement recognition of the benefit of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Management has concluded there are no significant uncertain tax positions that would require recognition in the financial statements. If applicable, the Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in "Interest Expense" and penalties in "Other Expenses" in the Statement of Operations. The Fund files tax returns with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, New York and various states. Each of the tax years in the four-year period ended October 31, 2013, remains subject to examination by taxing authorities.

The tax character of distributions paid may differ from the character of distributions shown in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets due to short-term capital gains being treated as ordinary income for tax purposes. The tax character of

distributions paid during fiscal years 2013 and 2012 was as follows:

2013 Distributions
Paid From:
  2012 Distributions
Paid From:
 
Ordinary
Income
(000)
  Long-term
Capital
Gain
(000)
  Ordinary
Income
(000)
  Long-term
Capital
Gain
(000)
 
$

72,155

     

   

$

83,296

     

   

The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to be paid by the Fund are determined in accordance with Federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP. These book/tax differences are considered either temporary or permanent in nature.

Temporary differences are attributable to differing book and tax treatments for the timing of the recognition of gains (losses) on certain investment transactions, the timing of the deductibility of certain expenses and the recognition of premium amortization.

Permanent differences, primarily due to differing treatments of gains (losses) related to foreign currency transactions and premium amortization adjustments for certain securities sold, resulted in the following reclassifications among the components of net assets at October 31, 2013:

Accumulated
Undistributed
Net Investment
Income
(000)
  Accumulated
Undistributed
Net Realized
Gain
(000)
  Paid-in
Capital
(000)
 
$

(11,042

)

 

$

11,042

     

   


20



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

At October 31, 2013, distributable earnings for the Fund on a tax basis were as follows:

Undistributed Ordinary
Income
(000)
  Undistributed
Long-term Capital Gain
(000)
 
$

35,097

   

$

36,014

   

At April 30, 2014, the aggregate cost for Federal income tax purposes approximates the aggregate cost for book purposes. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is approximately $51,044,000 and the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation is approximately $76,235,000 resulting in net unrealized depreciation of approximately $25,191,000.

To the extent that capital loss carryforwards are used to offset any future capital gains realized during the carryover period as provided by U.S. Federal income tax regulations, no capital gains tax liability will be incurred by the Fund for gains realized and not distributed. To the extent that capital gains are offset, such gains will not be distributed to the stockholders. During the year ended October 31, 2013, the Fund utilized capital loss carryforwards for U.S. Federal income tax purposes of approximately $9,250,000.

The amount of net investment income to be paid by the Fund is determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations. It is possible that all or a portion of the Fund's fiscal year 2014 dividend may be a return of capital and that determination cannot yet be made.

F.  Security Transactions and Transactions with Affiliates: For the six months ended April 30, 2014, purchases and sales of investment securities for the Fund, other than long-term U.S. Government securities and short-term investments, were approximately $885,136,000 and $944,689,000, respectively. There were no purchases and sales of long-term U.S. Government securities for the six months ended April 30, 2014.

The Fund invests in the Institutional Class of the Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds — Money Market

Portfolio (the "Liquidity Funds"), an open-end management investment company managed by the Adviser. Advisory fees paid by the Fund are reduced by an amount equal to its pro-rata share of the advisory and administration fees paid by the Fund due to its investment in the Liquidity Funds. For the six months ended April 30, 2014, advisory fees paid were reduced by approximately $27,000 relating to the Fund's investment in the Liquidity Funds.

A summary of the Fund's transactions in shares of the Liquidity Funds during the six months ended April 30, 2014 is as follows:

Value
October 31,
2013
(000)
  Purchases
at Cost
(000)
  Sales
(000)
  Dividend
Income
(000)
  Value
April 30,
2014
(000)
 
$

14,140

   

$

389,116

   

$

395,398

   

$

11

   

$

7,858

   

The Fund has an unfunded Deferred Compensation Plan (the "Compensation Plan"), which allows each independent Director to defer payment of all, or a portion, of the fees he or she receives for serving on the Board of Directors. Each eligible Director generally may elect to have the deferred amounts credited with a return equal to the total return on one or more of the Morgan Stanley funds that are offered as investment options under the Compensation Plan. Appreciation/depreciation and distributions received from these investments are recorded with an offsetting increase/decrease in the deferred compensation obligation and do not affect the net asset value of the Fund.

G.  Credit Facility: The Fund will use the proceeds from the use of leverage to purchase additional securities consistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and strategies. The Fund has entered into an agreement with State Street as Administrative Agent and sole lender to provide a revolving line of credit facility ("facility") in the amount of $400,000,000. The loans under the facility will bear interest at the rate of LIBOR for the applicable interest period plus a spread. The facility also has a commitment fee of 0.10% of the unused portion of the facility. The average borrowings and interest rate for the


21



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

six months ended April 30, 2014 were approximately $400,000,000 and 1.46%, respectively. During the same period, the Fund incurred approximately $2,938,000 in interest expense associated with the outstanding loans.

H.  Other: On January 10, 2008, the Fund commenced a share repurchase program for purposes of enhancing stockholder value and reducing the discount at which the Fund's shares trade from their net asset value per share ("NAV"). During the six months ended April 30, 2014, the Fund repurchased 679,747 of its shares at an average discount of 13.02% from NAV. Since the inception of the program, the Fund has repurchased 2,732,079 of its shares at an average discount of 16.13% from NAV. The Directors regularly monitor the Fund's share repurchase program as part of their review and consideraton of the Fund's premium/discount history. The Fund expects to continue to repurchase its outstanding shares at such time and in such amounts as it believes will further the accomplishment of the foregoing objectives, subject to review by the Directors.

I.  Accounting Pronouncement:  In June 2013, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2013-08 Financial Services — Investment Companies (Topic 946) — Amendments to the Scope, Measurement, and Disclosure Requirements ("ASU 2013-08") which is effective for interim and annual reporting periods in fiscal years that begin after December 15, 2013. ASU 2013-08 sets forth a methodology for determining whether an entity should be characterized as an investment company and prescribes fair value accounting for an investment company's non-controlling ownership interest in another investment company. FASB has determined that a fund registered under the Act automatically meets ASU 2013-08's criteria for an investment company. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2013-08 to the Fund, management expects that the impact of the Fund's adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures.

J.  Results of Annual Meeting of Stockholders: On June 17, 2014, an annual meeting of the Fund's stockholders was held for the purpose of voting on the following matter, the results of which were as follows:

Election of Directors by all stockholders:

 

For

 

Against

 

Kathleen A. Dennis

   

63,043,185

     

1,637,994

   

Joseph J. Kearns

   

62,786,247

     

1,894,932

   

Michael E. Nugent

   

62,967,239

     

1,713,940

   

Fergus Reid

   

62,894,654

     

1,786,525

   


22



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

For More Information About Portfolio Holdings

The Fund provides a complete schedule of portfolio holdings in its semi-annual and annual reports within 60 days of the end of the Fund's second and fourth fiscal quarters. The semi-annual reports and the annual reports are filed electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Form N-CSRS and Form N-CSR, respectively. Morgan Stanley also delivers the semi-annual and annual reports to Fund stockholders and makes these reports available on its public website, www.morganstanley.com/im. Each Morgan Stanley fund also files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the Fund's first and third fiscal quarters on Form N-Q. Morgan Stanley does not deliver the reports for the first and third fiscal quarters to stockholders, nor are the reports posted to the Morgan Stanley public website. You may, however, obtain the Form N-Q filings (as well as the Form N-CSR and N-CSRS filings) by accessing the SEC's website, www.sec.gov. You may also review and copy them at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC toll free at 1(800) SEC-0330. You can also request copies of these materials, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the SEC's e-mail address (publicinfo@sec.gov) or by writing the public reference section of the SEC, Washington, DC 20549-0102.

In addition to filing a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC each fiscal quarter, the Fund makes portfolio holdings information available by periodically providing the information on its public website, www.morganstanley.com/im.

The Fund provides a complete schedule of portfolio holdings on the public website on a calendar-quarter basis approximately 31 calendar days after the close of the calendar quarter. The Fund also provides Top 10 holdings information on the public website approximately 15 business days following the end of each month. You may obtain copies of the Fund's monthly or calendar-quarter website postings, by calling toll free 1(800) 231-2608.

Proxy Voting Policy and Procedures and Proxy Voting Record

A copy of (1) the Fund's policies and procedures with respect to the voting of proxies relating to the Fund's portfolio securities; and (2) how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30, is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll free 1(800) 231-2608 or by visiting our website at www.morganstanley.com/im. This information is also available on the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.


23




Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Portfolio Management (unaudited)

The Fund is managed by members of the Emerging Markets Debt team. The team consists of a portfolio manager, analysts and traders. The member of the team primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio is Eric J. Baurmeister, a Managing Director of the Adviser. Mr. Baurmeister has been associated with the Adviser in an investment management capacity since 1997 and began managing the Fund at its inception.


24



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Investment Policy (unaudited)

Derivatives

The Fund may, but is not required to, use derivative instruments for a variety of purposes, including hedging, risk management, portfolio management or to earn income. Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is based, in part, on the value of an underlying asset, interest rate, index or financial instrument. Prevailing interest rates and volatility levels, among other things, also affect the value of derivative instruments. A derivative instrument often has risks similar to its underlying asset and may have additional risks, including imperfect correlation between the value of the derivative and the underlying asset, risks of default by the counterparty to certain transactions, magnification of losses incurred due to changes in the market value of the securities, instruments, indices or interest rates to which the derivative instrument relates, risks that the transactions may not be liquid and risks arising from margin requirements. The use of derivatives involves risks that are different from, and possibly greater than, the risks associated with other portfolio investments. Derivatives may involve the use of highly specialized instruments that require investment techniques and risk analyses different from those associated with other portfolio investments.

Certain derivative transactions may give rise to a form of leverage. Leverage magnifies the potential for gain and the risk of loss. Leverage associated with derivative transactions may cause the Fund to liquidate portfolio positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations or to meet earmarking or segregation requirements, pursuant to applicable SEC rules and regulations, or may cause the Fund to be more volatile than if the Fund had not been leveraged. Although the Adviser seeks to use derivatives to further the Fund's investment objectives, there is no assurance that the use of derivatives will achieve this result.

Following is a description of the derivative instruments and techniques that the Fund may use and their associated risks:

Foreign Currency Forward Exchange Contracts.  In connection with its investments in foreign securities, the Fund also may enter into contracts with banks, brokers or dealers to purchase or sell securities or foreign currencies at a future date. A foreign currency forward exchange contract ("currency contract") is a negotiated agreement between the contracting parties to exchange a specified amount of currency at a specified future time at a specified rate. The rate can be higher or lower than the spot rate between the currencies that are the subject of the contract. Currency contracts may be used to protect against uncertainty in the level of future foreign currency exchange rates or to gain or modify exposure to a particular currency. In addition, the Fund may use cross currency hedging or proxy hedging with respect to currencies in which the Fund has or expects to have portfolio or currency exposure. Cross currency hedges involve the sale of one currency against the positive exposure to a different currency and may be used for hedging purposes or to establish an active exposure to the exchange rate between any two currencies. To the extent hedged by the use of currency contracts, the precise matching of the currency contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not generally be possible because the future value of such securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the value of those securities between the date on which the contract is entered into and the date it matures. Furthermore, such transactions reduce or preclude the opportunity for gain if the value of the currency should move in the direction opposite to the position taken. There is additional risk to the extent that currency contracts create exposure to currencies in which the Fund's securities are not denominated. Unanticipated changes in currency prices may result in poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not entered into such contracts. The use of currency contracts involves the risk of loss from the insolvency or bankruptcy of the counterparty to the contract or the failure of the counterparty to make payments or otherwise comply with the terms of the contract.


25



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Investment Policy (unaudited) (cont'd)

Futures.  A futures contract is a standardized, exchange-traded agreement to buy or sell a specific quantity of an underlying asset, reference rate or index at a specific price at a specific future time. The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of the underlying instrument. Depending on the terms of the particular contract, futures contracts are settled through either physical delivery of the underlying instrument on the settlement date or by payment of a cash settlement amount on the settlement date. A decision as to whether, when and how to use futures contracts involves the exercise of skill and judgment and even a well-conceived futures transaction may be unsuccessful because of market behavior or unexpected events. In addition to the derivatives risks discussed above, the prices of futures contracts can be highly volatile, using futures contracts can lower total return, and the potential loss from futures can exceed the Fund's initial investment in such contracts. No assurance can be given that a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. There is also the risk of loss by the Fund of margin deposits in the event of bankruptcy of a broker with whom the Fund has open positions in the futures contract.

Loan Participation Notes.  The Fund may invest in loan participation notes ("LPNs"), which are interests in loans or other direct debt instruments relating to amounts owed by a corporate, governmental or other borrower to another party. LPNs are notes issued through a special purpose vehicle for the purpose of funding or acquiring a loan to final obligor. LPNs are subject to the same risks as other debt obligations, which may include credit risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk and market risk. LPNs have limited recourse to the issuer, to the extent of the amount received by the issuer from the ultimate borrower in paying the principal and interest amounts as defined under the loan agreement. The Fund may be exposed to the credit risk of both the lender and the borrower, and may not benefit from any collateral supporting the underlying loan.

Options.  In respect of options, the Fund is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk and foreign currency exchange risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. If the Fund buys an option, it buys a legal contract giving it the right to buy or sell a specific amount of the underlying instrument or futures contract on the underlying instrument at an agreed-upon price typically in exchange for a premium paid by the Fund. If the Fund sells an option, it sells to another person the right to buy from or sell to the Fund a specific amount of the underlying instrument or futures contract on the underlying instrument at an agreed-upon price typically in exchange for a premium received by the Fund. When options are purchased over-the-counter ("OTC"), the Fund bears the risk that the counterparty that wrote the option will be unable or unwilling to perform its obligations under the option contract. Options may also be illiquid and the Fund may have difficulty closing out its position. A decision as to whether, when and how to use options involves the exercise of skill and judgment and even a well-conceived option transaction may be unsuccessful because of market behavior or unexpected events. The prices of options can be highly volatile and the use of options can lower total returns.

Structured Investments.  The Fund also may invest a portion of its assets in structured investments. A structured investment is a derivative security designed to offer a return linked to a particular underlying security, currency, commodity or market. Structured investments may come in various forms including notes (such as exchange-traded notes), warrants and options to purchase securities. The Fund will typically use structured investments to gain exposure to a permitted underlying security, currency, commodity or market when direct access to a market is limited or inefficient from a tax or cost standpoint. There can be no assurance that structured investments will trade at the same price or have the same value as the underlying security, currency, commodity or market. Investments in structured investments involve risks including issuer risk, counterparty risk and market risk. Holders of structured investments bear risks of the underlying investment and are subject to issuer or counterparty risk because the Fund is relying on the creditworthiness of such issuer or counterparty and has no rights with respect to the issuer of the underlying investment. Certain structured investments


26



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Investment Policy (unaudited) (cont'd)

may be thinly traded or have a limited trading market and may have the effect of increasing the Fund's illiquidity to the extent that the Fund, at a particular point in time, may be unable to find qualified buyers for these securities.

Swaps.  The Fund may enter into OTC swap contracts or cleared swap transactions. An OTC swap contract is an agreement between two parties pursuant to which the parties exchange payments at specified dates on the basis of a specified notional amount, with the payments calculated by reference to specified securities, indices, reference rates, currencies or other instruments. Typically swap agreements provide that when the period payment dates for both parties are the same, the payments are made on a net basis (i.e., the two payment streams are netted out, with only the net amount paid by one party to the other). The Fund's obligations or rights under a swap contract entered into on a net basis will generally be equal only to the net amount to be paid or received under the agreement, based on the relative values of the positions held by each party. Cleared swap transactions help reduce counterparty credit risk. In a cleared swap, the Fund's ultimate counterparty is a clearinghouse rather than a bank, dealer or other financial institution. OTC swap agreements are not entered into or traded on exchanges and often there is no central clearing or guaranty function for OTC swaps. These OTC swaps are often subject to credit risk or the risk of default or non performance by the counterparty. Both OTC and cleared swaps could result in losses if interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates or other factors are not correctly anticipated by the Fund or if the reference index, security or investments do not perform as expected. The Fund enters into credit default, interest rate and other forms of swap agreements to manage exposure to credit and interest rate risks. The Fund's use of swaps may include those based on the credit of an underlying security, commonly referred to as "credit default swaps." The Fund may be either the buyer or the seller in a credit default swap. Where the Fund is the buyer of a credit default swap contract, it would typically be entitled to receive the par (or other agreed-upon) value of a referenced debt obligation from the counterparty to the contract only in the event of a default or similar event by the issuer of the referenced debt obligation. If no default occurs, the Fund would have paid to the counterparty a periodic stream of payments over the term of the contract and received no benefit from the contract. When the Fund is the seller of a credit default swap contract, typically it receives the stream of payments but is obligated to pay an amount equal to the par (or other agreed-upon) value of a referenced debt obligation upon the default or similar event by the issuer of the referenced debt obligation. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and related regulatory developments require the clearing and exchange-trading of certain standardized swap transactions. Mandatory exchange-trading and clearing is occurring on a phased-in basis.

Foreign and Emerging Market Securities

Investing in the securities of foreign issuers, particularly those located in emerging market or developing countries, entails the risk that news and events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. The value of the Fund's shares may vary widely in response to political and economic factors affecting companies in foreign countries. These same events will not necessarily have an effect on the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in certain foreign markets, which have historically been considered stable, may become more volatile and subject to increased risk due to ongoing developments and changing conditions in such markets. Moreover, the growing interconnectivity of global economies and financial markets has increased the probability that adverse developments and conditions in one country or region will affect the stability of economies and financial markets in other countries or regions.

Certain foreign markets may rely heavily on particular industries or foreign capital and are more vulnerable to diplomatic developments, the imposition of economic sanctions against a particular country or countries, organizations, entities and/or


27



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Investment Policy (unaudited) (cont'd)

individuals, changes in international trading patterns, trade barriers, and other protectionist or retaliatory measures. Economic sanctions could, among other things, effectively restrict or eliminate the Fund's ability to purchase or sell securities or groups of securities for a substantial period of time, and may make the Fund's investments in such securities harder to value. International trade barriers or economic sanctions against foreign countries, organizations, entities and/or individuals, may adversely affect the Fund's foreign holdings or exposures. Investments in foreign markets may also be adversely affected by governmental actions such as the imposition of capital controls, nationalization of companies or industries, expropriation of assets, or the imposition of punitive taxes. Governmental actions can have a significant effect on the economic conditions in foreign countries, which also may adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Fund's investments. For example, the governments of certain countries may prohibit or impose substantial restrictions on foreign investing in their capital markets or in certain sectors or industries. In addition, a foreign government may limit or cause delay in the convertibility or repatriation of its currency which would adversely affect the U.S. dollar value and/or liquidity of investments denominated in that currency. Any of these actions could severely affect security prices, impair the Fund's ability to purchase or sell foreign securities or transfer the Fund's assets back into the U.S., or otherwise adversely affect the Fund's operations. Certain foreign investments may become less liquid in response to market developments or adverse investor perceptions, or become illiquid after purchase by the Fund, particularly during periods of market turmoil. Certain foreign investments may become illiquid when, for instance, there are few, if any, interested buyers and sellers or when dealers are unwilling to make a market for certain securities. When the Fund holds illiquid investments, its portfolio may be harder to value.

Temporary Investments

The investment policies, limitations or practices of the Fund may not apply during periods of unusual or adverse market, economic, political or other conditions. Such market, economic, political or other conditions may include periods of abnormal or heightened market volatility, strained credit and/or liquidity conditions or increased governmental intervention in the markets or industries. During such periods, the Fund may not invest according to its principal investment strategies or in the manner in which its name may suggest, and may be subject to different and/or heightened risks. It is possible that such unusual or adverse conditions may continue for extended periods of time. During such periods, the Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, reduce its holdings in debt obligations of issuers located in emerging markets countries that are denominated in the local currency and invest in certain liquid short-term (less than one year to maturity) and medium-term (not greater than five years to maturity) debt securities or hold cash. The short-term and medium-term debt securities in which the Fund may invest consist of (a) obligations of the U.S., emerging market or other foreign governments, their respective agencies or instrumentalities; (b) bank deposits and bank obligations (including certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances) of U.S. or foreign banks denominated in any currency; (c) floating rate securities and other instruments denominated in any other currency issued by various governments or international development agencies; (d) finance company and corporate commercial paper and other short-term corporate debt obligations of United States, emerging market or other foreign corporations; and (e) repurchase agreements with banks and broker-dealers with respect to such securities. The Fund intends to invest for temporary defensive purposes only in short-term and medium-term debt securities that the Adviser believes to be of high quality, i.e., subject to relatively low risk of loss of interest or principal (there is currently no rating system for debt securities in certain emerging market countries in which the Fund may invest).


28



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

Dividend Reinvestment Plan (unaudited)

Pursuant to the Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the Plan), each stockholder will be deemed to have elected, unless Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (the Plan Agent) is otherwise instructed by the stockholder in writing, to have all distributions automatically reinvested in Fund shares.

Dividend and capital gain distributions (Distribution) will be reinvested on the reinvestment date in full and fractional shares. If the market price per share equals or exceeds net asset value per share on the reinvestment date, the Fund will issue shares to participants at net asset value or, if net asset value is less than 95% of the market price on the reinvestment date, shares will be issued at 95% of the market price. If net asset value exceeds the market price on the reinvestment date, participants will receive shares valued at market price. The Fund may purchase shares of its Common Stock in the open market in connection with dividend reinvestment requirements at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Should the Fund declare a Distribution payable only in cash, the Plan Agent will purchase Fund shares for participants in the open market as agent for the participants.

The Plan Agent's fees for the reinvestment of a Distribution will be paid by the Fund. However, each participant's account will be charged a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred on any open market purchases effected on such participant's behalf. Although stockholders in the Plan may receive no cash distributions, participation in the Plan will not relieve participants of any income tax which may be payable on such dividends or distributions.

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

Stockholders who do not wish to have Distributions automatically reinvested should notify the Plan Agent in writing. There is no penalty for non-participation or withdrawal from the Plan, and stockholders who have previously withdrawn from the Plan may rejoin at any time. Requests for additional information or any correspondence concerning the Plan should be directed to the Plan Agent at:

Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.
Computershare Trust Company, N.A.
P.O. Box 30170
College Station, Texas 77842
1 (800) 231-2608


29



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

U.S. Privacy Policy (unaudited)

An Important Notice Concerning Our U.S. Privacy Policy

This privacy notice describes the U.S. privacy policy of Morgan Stanley Distribution, Inc., and the Morgan Stanley family of mutual funds ("us", "our", "we").

We are required by federal law to provide you with notice of our U.S. privacy policy ("Policy"). This Policy applies to both our current and former clients unless we state otherwise and is intended for individual clients who purchase products or receive services from us for personal, family or household purposes. This Policy is not applicable to partnerships, corporations, trusts or other non-individual clients or account holders, nor is this Policy applicable to individuals who are either beneficiaries of a trust for which we serve as trustee or participants in an employee benefit plan administered or advised by us. This Policy is, however, applicable to individuals who select us to be a custodian of securities or assets in individual retirement accounts, 401(k) accounts, or accounts subject to the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act.

This notice sets out our business practices to protect your privacy; how we collect and share personal information about you; and how you can limit our sharing or certain uses by others of this information. We may amend this Policy at any time, and will inform you of any changes to our Policy as required by law.

We Respect Your Privacy

We appreciate that you have provided us with your personal financial information and understand your concerns about your information. We strive to safeguard the information our clients entrust to us. Protecting the confidentiality and security of client information is an important part of how we conduct our business.

This notice describes what personal information we collect about you, how we collect it, when we may share it with others, and how certain others may use it. It discusses the steps you may take to limit our sharing of certain information about you with our affiliated companies, including, but not limited to our affiliated banking businesses, brokerage firms and credit service affiliates. It also discloses how you may limit our affiliates' use of shared information for marketing purposes.

Throughout this Policy, we refer to the nonpublic information that personally identifies you as "personal information." We also use the term "affiliated company" in this notice. An affiliated company is a company in our family of companies and includes companies with the Morgan Stanley name. These affiliated companies are financial institutions such as broker-dealers, banks, investment advisers and credit card issuers. We refer to any company that is not an affiliated company as a nonaffiliated third party. For purposes of Section 5 of this notice, and your ability to limit certain uses of personal information by our affiliates, this notice applies to the use of personal information by our affiliated companies.

1. What Personal Information Do We Collect From You?

We may collect the following types of information about you: (i) information provided by you, including information from applications and other forms we receive from you, (ii) information about your transactions with us or our affiliates, (iii) information


30



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

U.S. Privacy Policy (unaudited) (cont'd)

about your transactions with nonaffiliated third parties, (iv) information from consumer reporting agencies, (v) information obtained from our websites, and (vi) information obtained from other sources. For example:

•  We collect information such as your name, address, e-mail address, telephone/fax numbers, assets, income and investment objectives through applications and other forms you submit to us.

•  We may obtain information about account balances, your use of account(s) and the types of products and services you prefer to receive from us through your dealings and transactions with us and other sources.

•  We may obtain information about your creditworthiness and credit history from consumer reporting agencies.

•  We may collect background information from and through third-party vendors to verify representations you have made and to comply with various regulatory requirements.

2. When Do We Disclose Personal Information We Collect About You?

We may disclose personal information we collect about you in each of the categories listed above to affiliated and nonaffiliated third parties.

a. Information We Disclose to Affiliated Companies. We may disclose personal information that we collect about you to our affiliated companies to manage your account(s) effectively, to service and process your transactions, and to let you know about products and services offered by us and affiliated companies, to manage our business, and as otherwise required or permitted by law. Offers for products and services from affiliated companies are developed under conditions designed to safeguard your personal information.

b. Information We Disclose to Third Parties. We may disclose personal information that we collect about you to nonaffiliated third parties to provide marketing services on our behalf or to other financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing agreements. We may also disclose all of the information we collect to other nonaffiliated third parties for our everyday business purposes, such as to process transactions, maintain account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, report to credit bureaus, offer our own products and services, protect against fraud, for institutional risk control, to perform services on our behalf, and as otherwise required or permitted by law.

When we share personal information about you with a nonaffiliated third party, they are required to limit their use of personal information about you to the particular purpose for which it was shared and they are not allowed to share personal information about you with others except to fulfill that limited purpose or as may be permitted or required by law.

3. How Do We Protect the Security and Confidentiality of Personal Information We Collect About You?

We maintain physical, electronic and procedural security measures that comply with applicable law and regulations to help safeguard the personal information we collect about you. We have internal policies governing the proper handling of client information by


31



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

U.S. Privacy Policy (unaudited) (cont'd)

employees. Third parties that provide support or marketing services on our behalf may also receive personal information about you, and we require them to adhere to appropriate security standards with respect to such information.

4. How Can You Limit Our Sharing Certain Personal Information About You With Our Affiliated Companies for Eligibility Determination?

By following the opt-out procedures in Section 6 below, you may limit the extent to which we share with our affiliated companies, personal information that was collected to determine your eligibility for products and services such as your credit reports and other information that you have provided to us or that we may obtain from third parties ("eligibility information"). Eligibility information does not include your identification information or personal information pertaining to our transactions or experiences with you. Please note that, even if you direct us not to share eligibility information with our affiliated companies, we may still share your personal information, including eligibility information, with our affiliated companies under circumstances that are permitted under applicable law, such as to process transactions or to service your account.

5. How Can You Limit the Use of Certain Personal Information About You by Our Affiliated Companies for Marketing?

By following the opt-out instructions in Section 6 below, you may limit our affiliated companies from marketing their products or services to you based on personal information we disclose to them. This information may include, for example, your income and account history with us. Please note that, even if you choose to limit our affiliated companies from using personal information about you that we may share with them for marketing their products and services to you, our affiliated companies may use your personal information that they obtain from us to market to you in circumstances permitted by law, such as if the affiliated party has its own relationship with you.

6. How Can You Send Us an Opt-Out Instruction?

If you wish to limit our sharing of eligibility information about you with our affiliated companies, or our affiliated companies' use of personal information for marketing purposes, as described in this notice, you may do so by:

•  Calling us at (800) 231-2608
Monday–Friday between 8a.m. and 5p.m. (EST)

•  Writing to us at the following address:

  Computershare Trust Company, N.A.
c/o Privacy Coordinator
P.O. Box 30170
College Station, Texas 77842

If you choose to write to us, your request should include: your name, address, telephone number and account number(s) to which the opt-out applies and whether you are opting out with respect to sharing of eligibility information (Section 4 above), or information used for marketing (Section 5 above), or both. Written opt-out requests should not be sent with any other correspondence. In order to


32



Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc.

April 30, 2014

U.S. Privacy Policy (unaudited) (cont'd)

process your request, we require that the request be provided by you directly and not through a third party. Once you have informed us about your privacy preferences, your opt-out preference will remain in effect with respect to this Policy (as it may be amended) until you notify us otherwise. If you are a joint account owner, we will accept instructions from any one of you and apply those instructions to the entire account.

Please understand that if you limit our sharing or our affiliated companies' use of personal information, you and any joint account holder(s) may not receive information about our affiliated companies' products and services, including products or services that could help you manage your financial resources and achieve your investment objectives.

If you have more than one account or relationship with us, please specify the accounts to which you would like us to apply your privacy choices. If you have accounts or relationships with our affiliates, you may receive multiple privacy policies from them, and will need to separately notify those companies of your privacy choices for those accounts or relationships.

7. What if an affiliated company becomes a nonaffiliated third party?

If, at any time in the future, an affiliated company becomes a nonaffiliated third party, further disclosures of personal information made to the former affiliated company will be limited to those described in Section 2(b) above relating to nonaffiliated third parties. If you elected under Section 6 to limit disclosures we make to affiliated companies, or use of personal information by affiliated companies, your election will not apply to use by any former affiliated company of your personal information in their possession once it becomes a nonaffiliated third party.

SPECIAL NOTICE TO RESIDENTS OF VERMONT

The following section supplements our Policy with respect to our individual clients who have a Vermont address and supersedes anything to the contrary in the above Policy with respect to those clients only.

The State of Vermont requires financial institutions to obtain your consent prior to sharing personal information that they collect about you with nonaffiliated third parties, or eligibility information with affiliated companies, other than in certain limited circumstances. Except as permitted by law, we will not share personal information we collect about you with nonaffiliated third parties or eligibility information with affiliated companies, unless you provide us with your written consent to share such information.

SPECIAL NOTICE TO RESIDENTS OF CALIFORNIA

The following section supplements our Policy with respect to our individual clients who have a California address and supersedes anything to the contrary in the above Policy with respect to those clients only.

In response to a California law, if your account has a California home address, your personal information will not be disclosed to nonaffiliated third parties except as permitted by applicable California law, and we will limit sharing such personal information with our affiliates to comply with California privacy laws that apply to us.


33




 

Item 2.  Code of Ethics.

 

Not applicable for semiannual reports.

 

Item 3.  Audit Committee Financial Expert.

 

Not applicable for semiannual reports.

 

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Not applicable for semiannual reports.

 

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

 

Not applicable for semiannual reports.

 

Item 6.

 

(a) Refer to Item 1.

 

(b) Not applicable.

 

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

 

Not applicable for semiannual reports.

 

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

 

Applicable only to annual reports filed by closed-end funds.

 



 

Item 9. Closed-End Fund Repurchases

 

REGISTRANT PURCHASE OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

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

 

November 2013

 

218,758

 

 

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

January 2014

 

41,894

 

 

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

February 2014

 

377,995

 

 

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

March 2014

 

41,100

 

 

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

Total

 

679,747

 

13.02

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

 

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

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 11. Controls and Procedures

 

(a)  The Trust’s/Fund’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Trust’s/Fund’s disclosure controls and procedures are sufficient to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Trust/Fund in this Form N-CSR was recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, based upon such officers’ evaluation of these controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of the report.

 



 

(b)  There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting 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) Code of Ethics — Not applicable for semiannual reports.

 

(b) A separate certification for each principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the registrant are attached hereto as part of EX-99.CERT.

 



 

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.

 

Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund

 

/s/ John H. Gernon

 

John H. Gernon

 

Principal Executive Officer

 

June 19, 2014

 

 

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

 

/s/ John H. Gernon

 

John H. Gernon

 

Principal Executive Officer

 

June 19, 2014

 

 

 

/s/ Francis Smith

 

Francis Smith

 

Principal Financial Officer

 

June 19, 2014