EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC. - Quarter Report: 2008 September (Form 10-Q)

Form 10-Q for quarterly period ended September 30, 2008

Index to Financial Statements

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

x	QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008

¨	TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period to

Commission File Number 0-19509

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware

76-0345915

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)


2727 Allen Parkway, 13th Floor Houston, Texas		77019
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (713) 529-0900

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.


Large accelerated filer ¨		Accelerated filer ¨		Non-accelerated filer x		Smaller Reporting Company ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company. Yes ¨ No x

There were 8,260,671 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $.001 par value, outstanding, as of November 14, 2008. The net asset value of a share at September 30, 2008 was $11.41.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

(A Delaware Corporation)

INDEX


		PAGE
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
Balance Sheets—September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007		3
Statements of Operations—For the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007		4
Statements of Operations—For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007		5
Statements of Changes in Net Assets—For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007		6
Statements of Cash Flows—For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007		7
Selected Per Share Data and Ratios—For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007		8
Schedule of Portfolio Securities—September 30, 2008		9
Schedule of Portfolio Securities—December 31, 2007		12
Notes to Financial Statements		15
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		24
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk		28
Item 4. Controls and Procedures		29
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 6. Exhibits		29
SIGNATURE		31

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

BALANCE SHEETS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND DECEMBER 31, 2007


	September 30, 2008			December 31, 2007
(in thousands, except per share amounts)	(unaudited)
Assets
Investments in portfolio securities at fair value:
Control investments (cost at $36,378 and $23,444 respectively)	$	38,477		$	25,646
Affiliate investments (cost at $18,173 and $14,721 respectively)		34,564			32,111
Non-affiliate investments (cost at $16,795 and $17,118 respectively)		11,000			14,345

Total investments in portfolio securities at fair value		84,041			72,102
Restricted cash & temporary investments, at cost which approximates fair value		55,544			30,296
Cash		53			28
Temporary cash investments, at cost which approximates fair value		9,048			30,912
Accounts receivable		8			107
Accrued interest and dividends receivable due from portfolio companies		1,179			1,023
Escrowed receivables, at fair value		—			262

Total assets	$	149,873		$	134,730

Liabilities and net assets
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	56		$	108
Due to adviser		588			1,410
Borrowing under margin account		54,994			29,996

Total liabilities		55,638			31,514

Commitments and contingencies		—			—

Net assets:
Preferred stock, $.001 par value, 5,000 shares authorized, no shares outstanding		—			—
Common stock, $.001 par value, 50,000 shares authorized, 8,261 and 8,401 shares outstanding		8			8
Additional paid-in capital		87,931			89,021
Undistributed net investment losses		(7,376	)		(3,772	)
Undistributed net capital gains		977			1,141
Unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities, net		12,695			16,818

Total net assets	$	94,235		$	103,216

Net assets per share	$	11.41		$	12.29

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

(Unaudited)


(in thousands, except per share amounts)	2008			2007
Investment income:
Interest and dividend income from portfolio securities:
Control investments	$	221		$	407
Affiliate investments		216			184
Non-affiliate investments		(233	)		158

Total interest and dividend income		204			749
Interest from temporary cash investments		88			402

Total investment income		292			1,151

Expenses:
Management fee		463			304
Incentive fee		14			(3	)
Professional fees		179			242
Administrative fees		113			113
Director fees and expenses		89			93
Mailing, printing and other expenses		55			38
Interest expense		4			23
Taxes		—			21
Offering costs		—			609

Total expenses		917			1,440

Net investment gain (loss)		(625	)		(289	)

Net realized gain (loss) on portfolio securities:
Control investments		(1	)		106
Affiliate investments		—			—
Non-affiliate investments		—			—

Total net realized gain (loss) on portfolio securities		(1	)		106

Net unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities:
End of period		12,695			1,319
Beginning of period		17,129			4,935

Net change in unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities		(4,434	)		(3,616	)

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations	$	(5,060	)	$	(3,799	)

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations, per share:
Basic and diluted	$	(0.60	)	$	(0.46	)

Weighted average shares outstanding, in thousands
Basic and diluted		8,497			8,270

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

(Unaudited)


(in thousands, except per share amounts)	2008			2007
Investment income:
Interest and dividend income from portfolio securities:
Control investments	$	605		$	1,259
Affiliate investments		677			496
Non-affiliate investments		611			464

Total interest and dividend income		1,893			2,219
Interest from temporary cash investments		480			1,414

Total investment income		2,373			3,633

Expenses:
Management fee		1,485			1,225
Incentive fee		124			1,216
Professional fees		566			591
Administrative fees		338			338
Director fees and expenses		323			263
Mailing, printing and other expenses		226			255
Interest expense		20			66
Taxes		10			65
Offering costs		—			609

Total expenses		3,092			4,628

Net investment loss		(719	)		(995	)

Net realized gain (loss) on portfolio securities:
Control investments		626			1,492
Affiliate investments		351			3,747
Non-affiliate investments		—			19

Total net realized gain on portfolio securities		977			5,258

Net unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities:
End of period		12,695			1,319
Beginning of period		16,818			9,292

Net change in unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities		(4,123	)		(7,973	)

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations	$	(3,865	)	$	(3,710	)

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations per share:
Basic and diluted	$	(0.46	)	$	(0.45	)

Weighted average shares outstanding, in thousands
Basic and diluted		8,475			8,219

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

(Unaudited)


(in thousands)	2008			2007
Operations:
Net investment loss	$	(719	)	$	(995	)
Net realized gain on portfolio securities		977			5,258
Net change in unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities		(4,123	)		(7,973	)

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations		(3,865	)		(3,710	)

Capital share transactions:
Dividends declared		(4,026	)		(3,081	)
Shares issued in lieu of cash dividend		1,920			1,417
Repurchase of common stock		(3,010	)		—

Decrease in net assets resulting from capital share transactions		(5,116	)		(1,664	)

Decrease in net assets		(8,981	)		(5,374	)
Net assets at beginning of period		103,216			93,236

Net assets at end of period	$	(94,235	)	$	87,862

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

(Unaudited)


(in thousands)	2008			2007
Reconciliation of increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to net cash used in operating activities:
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations	$	(3,865	)	$	(3,710	)
Adjustments to reconcile increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to net cash used in operating activities:
Net realized gain on dispositions of portfolio securities		(977	)		(5,258	)
Net change in unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities		4,123			7,973
Amortization of original issue discount		166			44
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Purchase of portfolio securities		(18,808	)		(24,469	)
Proceeds from dispositions of portfolio securities		3,915			6,658
Principal payments from portfolio securities		—			4,697
Purchases of restricted temporary cash investments		(25,248	)		(7	)
Decrease in accounts receivable		99			27
Increase in accrued interest and dividends receivable due from portfolio companies		(514	)		(1,303	)
Decrease in deferred offering costs		—			609
Decrease in accrued escrowed receivables		262			—
Decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities		(52	)		(117	)
Decrease in due to adviser		(822	)		(782	)

Net cash used in operating activities	$	(41,721	)	$	(15,638	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings under margin account		140,992			89,947
Repayments under margin account		(115,994	)		(89,940	)
Dividends paid		(2,106	)		(1,664	)
Repurchase of common stock		(3,010	)		—
Cash paid for deferred offering costs		—			(25	)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		19,882			(1,682	)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(21,839	)		(17,320	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		30,940			51,499

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	9,101		$	34,179

Non-cash financing activities:
Shares issued in lieu of cash dividend	$	1,920		$	1,417

Accrued interest or dividends exchanged for portfolio securities	$	358		$	481

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest paid	$	16		$	48

Income taxes paid	$	10		$	51

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION—SELECTED PER SHARE DATA AND RATIOS

FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

(Unaudited)


	2008			2007
Investment income	$	0.28		$	0.44
Expenses		0.36			0.56

Net investment loss		(0.08	)		(0.12	)
Net realized gain on portfolio securities		0.12			0.66
Net change in unrealized appreciation of portfolio securities		(0.49	)		(0.98	)

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations		(0.45	)		(0.44	)

Capital Transactions:
Dividend declared		(0.47	)		(0.38	)
Share Repurchase		(0.36	)		—
Dilutive effect of shares issued in common stock dividend		0.40			(0.06	)

Decrease in net assets resulting from capital transactions		(0.43	)		(0.44	)

Net decrease in net assets		(0.88	)		(0.88	)
Net assets at beginning of period		12.29			11.42

Net assets at end of period, basic and diluted	$	11.41		$	10.54

Weighted average number of shares outstanding during period, in thousands		8,475			8,219
Market value per share at end of period	$	6.20		$	7.63
Ratio of expenses to average net assets		3.13	%		5.11	%

Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets		(0.73	)%		(1.10	)%
Ratio of net increase in net assets resulting from operations to average net assets		(3.91	)%		4.10	%
Total return on market price		5.77	%*		6.26	%

*	Total return equals the change in the ending market value over the beginning of period price per share plus dividends declared per share during the period, divided by the beginning price.

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008

(unaudited)


Name and Location of Portfolio Company	Industry	Date of Initial Investment	Investment	Principal		Cost of Investment		Fair Value(3)
				*(amounts in thousands)*
Control investments: Majority-owned (7):

Equus Media Development Company, LLC Houston, TX	Media	January 2007	Member Interest			$	5,000	$	5,000

Riptide Entertainment, LLC	Entertainment and leisure	December 2005	Member interest (64.67%)				65		65
Miami, FL			8% promissory notes	$	9,435		9,435		9,435

Sovereign Business Forms, Inc. (8)	Business products and services	August 1996(4)	1,214,630 shares of common stock(1)				5,080		4,405
Houston, TX			12% promissory notes(1)		3,250		3,250		3,250

Spectrum Management, LLC Carrollton, TX	Business products and services	December 1999(4)	285,000 units of Class A equity interest				2,850		6,103
			16% subordinated promissory note(1)		1,690		1,690		1,690

Total Control investments: Majority-owned (represents 35.6% of total investments at fair value)						$	27,370	$	29,948

Control Investments: Non-majority owned (6):

ConGlobal Industries Holding, Inc.	Shipping products and services	February 1997(4)	24,397,303 shares of common stock			$	1,370	$	444
San Ramon, CA			7% Promissory note	$	3,266		3,266		3,494
			Member interest in CCI-ANI Finance, LLC				2,734		2,926
			Member interest (66.7%) in JL Madre, LLC(1)				865		892

HealthSPAC, LLC	Healthcare	December 2006	Member interest (40%)				773		773
El Segundo, CA

Total Control Investments: Non-majority Owned (represents 10.2% of total investments at fair value)						$	9,008		8,529

Total Control Investments: (represents 45.8% of total investments at fair value)						$	36,378	$	38,477

Affiliate Investments (5):

Infinia Corporation Kennewick, WA	Alternative energy	June 2007	666,667 Class A Shares Preferred Stock			$	3,000	$	20,741
			160,720 Class B Shares Preferred Stock				5,000		5,000

Nickent Golf, Inc.	Entertainment and leisure	June 2007	13% Promissory Note(1)(2)	$	6,250		6,250		6,250
City of Industry, CA			3,000,000 shares Class A Convertible Preferred Stock				3,000		2,000
			Warrants to buy 15,000 shares of common stock at $1 per share through March 17, 2013				—		—
			Warrants to buy 463,917 shares of common stock at $0.97 per share through August 4, 2010, warrant terms subject to change				—		—

PalletOne, Inc.	Shipping products and services	October 2001(4)	350,000 shares of common stock				350		—
Bartow, FL

RP&C International Investments LLC	Healthcare	September 2006	Membership Interest (17.2%)				573		573
New York, NY

Total Affiliate Investments (represents 41.1% of total investments at fair value)						$	18,173	$	34,564

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008

(unaudited)

(continued)


Name and Location of Portfolio Company	Industry	Date of Initial Investment	Investment	Principal		Cost of Investment		Fair Value(3)
				*(amounts in thousands)*
Non-Affiliate Investments (less than 5% owned):

1848 Capital Partners LLC	Entertainment and leisure	January 2008	18% Promissory note(1)(2)	$	3,000	$	3,000	$	3,000
Miami, FL

Big Apple Entertainment Partners LLC	Entertainment and leisure	October 2007	18% Promissory note(1)		3,000		3,000		3,000
New York, NY

Creekstone Florida Holdings, LLC Houston, TX	Real Estate	December 2005	17-19.8% subordinated promissory note(2)		4,000		4,000		—

London Bridge Entertainment Partners LLC	Entertainment and leisure	August 2008	18% Promissory note(1)		2,500		2,500		2,500
New York, NY

Metic Solutions, PLC	Business products and services	August 2008	Promissory note convertible into common stock (2)(9)		1,000		1,000		1,000
London, UK

The Bradshaw Group Richardson, TX	Business products and services	May 2000(4)	576,828 Class B Shares 12.25% preferred stock				1,795		—
			38,750 Class C shares preferred stock				—		—
			788,649 Class D shares 15% preferred stock				—		—
			2,218,109 Class E shares 8% preferred stock				—		—
			Warrant to buy 2,229,450 shares of common stock through May 2008				—		—

Trulite, Inc.	Alternative energy	August 2008	15% Promissory note(1)		1,500		1,500		1,500
Houston, TX

Total Non-Affiliate Investments (represents 13.1% of total investments at fair value)						$	16,795	$	11,000

Total Investments						$	71,346	$	84,041

(1)	Income-producing. All other securities are considered non-income producing.

(2)	Income on these securities is paid-in-kind by the issuance of additional securities, accrued as interest for conversion to common stock or accreted through original issue discount.

(3)	See “Business—Valuation.”

(4)	Investments prior to June 30, 2005 were not selected by the current Adviser.

(5)	Affiliate investments are generally defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as companies in which the Fund owns at least 5% but not more than 25% voting securities of the company.

(6)	Non-majority owned control investments are generally defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as companies in which the Fund owns more than 25% but not more than 50% of the voting securities of the company.

(7)	Majority owned investments are generally defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as companies in which the Fund owns more than 50% of the voting securities of the company.

(8)	In May 2008, Sovereign restructured its ownership and debt. As a result, the Fund’s ownership interest increased to majority-owned control investment.

(9)	Note to accrue interest at a rate equal to the Bank of Scotland plus 2%. All accrued interest to convert with the note.

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008

(Unaudited)

(Continued)

Substantially all of the Fund’s portfolio securities are restricted from public sale without prior registration under the Securities Act of 1933. The Fund negotiates certain aspects of the method and timing of the disposition of the Fund’s investment in each portfolio company, including registration rights and related costs.

As defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, all of the Fund’s investments are in eligible portfolio companies. The Fund provides significant managerial assistance to all of the portfolio companies in which it has invested. The Fund provides significant managerial assistance to portfolio companies that comprise 90% of the total value of the investments in portfolio companies as of September 30, 2008.

The Fund’s investments in portfolio securities consist of the following types of securities as of September 30, 2008 (in thousands):


Type of Securities	Cost		Fair Value		Fair Value as Percentage of Net Assets
Secured and subordinated debt	$	38,891	$	35,119	37.4	%
Preferred stock		12,795		27,741	29.4	%
Limited liability company investments		12,860		16,332	17.3	%
Common stock		6,800		4,849	5.1	%
Options and warrants		—		—	0.0	%

Total	$	71,346	$	84,041	89.2	%

Four notes receivable included in secured and subordinated debt with an estimated fair value of $10.5 million provide that all or a portion of interest is paid-in-kind or the original issue discount is accreted over the life of the notes, by adding such amount to the principal of the notes. For the remainder of secured and subordinated debt, cash payments of interest are currently being received on notes aggregating $11.9 million in fair value, while no cash payments are being received for notes totaling $12.9 million.

The following is a summary by industry of the Fund’s investments in portfolio securities as of September 30, 2008 (in thousands):


Industry	Fair Value		Fair Value as Percentage of Net Assets
Alternative energy	$	27,241	28.9	%
Entertainment and leisure		26,250	27.9	%
Business products and services		16,448	17.5	%
Shipping products and services		7,756	8.2	%
Media		5,000	5.3	%
Real estate		—	—
Healthcare		1,346	1.4	%

Total	$	84,041	89.2	%

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

DECEMBER 31, 2007

Name and Location of

Portfolio Company

Industry

Date of Initial
Investment

Type of Securities

Principal

Cost of
Investment

Fair
Value(3)

(amounts in thousands)

Control Investments: Majority-owned(7):

Equus Media Development Company, LLC

Media

January 2007(4)

Member Interest (100%)

$ 5,000

Houston, TX

Riptide Entertainment, LLC

Miami, FL

Entertainment and leisure

December 2005(4)

Member interest (64.67%)

8% promissory notes

$4,835

4,835

Spectrum Management, LLC

Carrollton, TX

Business products and services

December 1999

285,000 units of Class A equity interest

2,850

8,381

16% subordinated promissory note(1)(2)

1,304

12.75% subordinated promissory note(1)(2)

386

Total Control Investments: Majority-owned (represents 27.7% of total investments at fair value)

$14,440

$19,971

Control Investments: Non-majority-owned(6):

ConGlobal Industries Holding, Inc.

Houston, TX

Shipping products and services

February 1997

24,397,303 shares of common stock

1,370

—

Promissory note(2)

3,266

2,153

Member interest in CCI-ANI Finance, LLC(2)

2,734

1,803

Member interest (66.7%) in JL Madre, LLC(1)

1,000

1,035

Member interest (28.3%) in JL Madre Equipment, LLC(1)

119

HealthSPAC, LLC

Healthcare

December 2006(4)

Member interest (40%)

565

El Segundo, CA

Total Control Investments: Non-majority-owned (represents 7.9% of total investments at fair value)

$ 9,004

$ 5,675

Total Control Investments: (represents 35.6% of total investments at fair value)

$23,444

$25,646

Affiliate Investments(5):

Infinia Corporation

Kennewick, WA

Alternative energy

June 2007(4)

666,667 Class A Shares Preferred Stock

3,000

20,740

Nickent Golf, Inc.

City of Industry, CA

Entertainment and leisure

June 2007(4)

13% Promissory Note(1)(2)

6,066

2,000,000 shares Class A Convertible Preferred Stock

2,000

Warrants to buy 463,917 shares of common stock at $0.97 per share through August 4, 2009, warrant terms subject to change

—

PalletOne, Inc.

South Bartow, FL

Shipping products and services

October 2001

350,000 shares of common stock

350

—

RP&C International Investments LLC

Healthcare

September 2006(4)

Membership Interest (17.2%)

3,305

New York, NY

Total Affiliate Investments (represents 44.5% of total investments at fair value)

$14,721

$32,111

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

DECEMBER 31, 2007

(continued)

Name and Location of
Portfolio Company

Industry

Date of Initial
Investment

Type of Securities

Principal

Cost of
Investment

Fair
Value(3)

(amounts in thousands)

Non-Affiliate Investments (less than 5% owned)

Big Apple Entertainment Partners LLC

Entertainment and leisure

October 2007(4)

Promissory note(1)

$3,000

$ 3,000

New York, NY

The Bradshaw Group

Richardson, TX

Business products and services

May 2000

576,828 Class B Shares 12.25% preferred stock

1,795

485

38,750 Class C shares preferred stock

—

788,649 Class D shares 15% preferred stock

—

2,218,109 Class E shares 8% preferred stock

—

Warrant to buy 2,229,450 shares of common stock through May 2008

—

Creekstone Florida Holdings, LLC

Houston, TX

Real estate

December 2005(4)

17-19.8% subordinated promissory note(1)(2)

4,000

4,166

Sovereign Business Forms, Inc.

Business products and services

August 1996

29,854 shares of preferred stock(1)(2)

2,985

1,522

Houston, TX

15% promissory notes(1)(2)

5,172

Warrant to buy 551,894 shares of common stock at $1 per share through Aug 2008

—

Warrant to buy 25,070 shares of common stock at $1.25 per share through Aug 2008

—

Warrant to buy 273,450 shares of common stock at $1 per share through Oct 2009

—

Total Non-Affiliate Investments (represents 19.9% of total investments at fair value)

$17,118

$14,345

Total Investments

$55,283

$72,102

(1)	Income-producing. All other securities are considered non-income producing.

(2)	Income on these securities is paid-in-kind by the issuance of additional securities or through accretion of original issue discount.

(3)	See “Business—Valuation.”

(4)	Investments subsequent to June 30, 2005 were selected, and are managed, by the Adviser.

(5)	Affiliate investments are generally defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as companies in which the Fund owns at least 5% but not more than 25% voting securities of the company.

(6)	Non-majority owned control investments are generally defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as companies in which the Fund owns more than 25% but not more than 50% of the voting securities of the company.

(7)	Majority owned investments are generally defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as companies in which the Fund owns more than 50% of the voting securities of the company.

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

SCHEDULE OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

DECEMBER 31, 2007

(Continued)

As defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, all of the Fund’s investments are in eligible portfolio companies. The Fund provides significant managerial assistance to all of the portfolio companies in which it has invested. The Fund provides significant managerial assistance to portfolio companies that comprise 96% of the total value of the investments in portfolio companies as of December 31, 2007.

The Fund’s investments in portfolio securities consist of the following types of securities at December 31, 2007 (in thousands):


Type of Securities	Cost		Fair Value		Fair Value as Percentage of Net Assets
Secured and subordinated debt	$	28,195	$	27,083	26.3	%
Preferred stock		9,780		24,747	24.0	%
Limited liability company		12,738		11,891	11.5	%
Common stock		4,570		8,381	8.1	%
Options and warrants		—		—	0.0	%

Total	$	55,283	$	72,102	69.9	%

Six notes receivable included in secured and subordinated debt with an estimated fair value of $19.3 million provided that all or a portion of interest is paid-in-kind or the original issue discount is accreted over the life of the notes, by adding such amount to the principal of the notes. For the remainder of secured and subordinated debt, cash payments of interest are being made currently on notes aggregating $3.0 million in fair value, while no cash payments are being received for notes totalling $4.8 million.

The following is a summary by industry of the Fund’s investments as of December 31, 2007 (in thousands):


Industry	Fair Value		Fair Value as Percentage of Net Assets
Alternative energy	$	20,740	20.1	%
Business products and services		17,250	16.7	%
Entertainment and leisure		15,966	15.5	%
Shipping products and services		5,110	5.0	%
Media		5,000	4.8	%
Real estate		4,166	4.0	%
Healthcare		3,870	3.8	%

Total	$	72,102	69.9	%

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

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

(1) Description of Business and Basis of Presentation

Description of Business—Equus Total Return, Inc. (the “Fund”), formerly Equus II Incorporated, a Delaware corporation, was formed by Equus Investments II, L.P. (the “Partnership”) on August 16, 1991. On July 1, 1992, the Partnership was reorganized and all of the assets and liabilities of the Partnership were transferred to the Fund in exchange for shares of common stock of the Fund. The shares of the Fund trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol EQS. On August 11, 2006, shareholders of the Fund approved the change of the Fund’s investment strategy to a total return investment objective. This new strategy seeks to provide the highest total return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income. In connection with this strategic investment change, the shareholders also approved the change of name from Equus II Incorporated to Equus Total Return, Inc.

The Fund seeks to achieve capital appreciation by making investments in equity and equity-oriented securities issued by privately-owned companies in transactions negotiated directly with such companies. The Fund seeks to invest primarily in companies which intend to grow either by acquiring other businesses, including leveraged buyouts, or internally. The Fund may also invest in recapitalizations of existing businesses or special situations from time to time. The Fund’s investments in portfolio companies consist principally of equity securities such as common and preferred stock, but also include other equity-oriented securities such as debt convertible into common or preferred stock or debt combined with warrants, options or other rights to acquire common or preferred stock. The Fund elected to be treated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“Investment Company Act”). For tax purposes, the Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company (“RIC”). With shareholder approval on June 30, 2005, the Fund entered into an investment advisory agreement with Moore Clayton Capital Advisors, Inc. (the “Adviser”). Prior to this agreement, the Fund’s adviser was Equus Capital Management Corporation.

The Fund elected to retain the Adviser in part to provide the Fund with enhanced investment opportunities in both the United States and internationally. Effective August 11, 2006, the Fund began to employ a total return investment style. The total return style combines both growth and income investments and is intended to strike a balance between the potential for gain and the risk of loss. In the growth category, the Fund is a “growth-at-reasonable-price” investor. The Fund invests primarily in privately owned companies and is open to virtually any potential growth investment in the privately owned arena. However, the Fund’s primary aim is to identify and acquire only those equity securities that meet its criteria for selling at reasonable prices. The income investments made by the Fund consist principally of purchasing debt financing with the objective of generating regular interest income back to the fund as well as long-term capital appreciation through the exercise and sale of warrants received in connection with the financing.

The Fund has decided to further the total return investment objective, with authorization from the Board of Directors (which includes all of the Fund’s independent directors) and approval of a majority of the shareholders, by amending the Fund’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation to change the name of the Fund from “Equus II Incorporated” to “Equus Total Return, Inc.” This proposal was approved by a majority of the shareholders on August 11, 2006.

Basis of Presentation—In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act of 1933 and Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Fund does not consolidate portfolio company investments, including those in which it has a controlling interest. The Fund’s interim consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or GAAP, for interim financial information and in accordance with the requirements of reporting on Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Accordingly, they are unaudited and exclude some disclosures required for annual financial statements. Management believes it has made all adjustments, consisting solely of normal recurring accruals, necessary for the fair presentation of these interim financial statements.

The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of results that ultimately may be achieved for the year. The interim unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Fund’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, as filed with the SEC. Certain prior period information has been reclassified to conform to current year presentation.

(2) Liquidity and Financing Arrangements

There are several factors that may materially affect the Fund’s liquidity during the reasonably foreseeable future. The Fund views this period as the twelve month period from the date of the financial statements in this Form 10-Q, i.e., the period through
September 30, 2009.

Management is currently evaluating the impact of current market conditions on its portfolio company valuations and their ability to provide current income. Management has followed valuation techniques in a consistent manner; however, it is cognizant of current market conditions that might effect future valuations of portfolio securities. If necessary to meet the Fund’s investment commitments of $8.2 million, the Fund has a secured $7.5 million revolving line of credit facility with Amegy Bank. The Fund has not yet borrowed under this facility. The Fund believes that its operating cash flow and cash on hand will be sufficient to meet operating requirements and to finance routine capital expenditures through the next twelve months.

While the Fund seeks to pay dividends on a quarterly basis, the Board of Directors has approved the payment of these dividends to be in the Fund’s common stock until further notice; thus, the future dividends should not affect the Fund’s liquidity.

As of September 30, 2008, the Fund had cash and temporary cash investments of $9.1 million. The Fund had $84.0 million of its net assets of $94.2 million invested in portfolio securities. Restricted assets totaled $55.5 million, of which $55.0 million was invested in U.S. Treasury Bills for the purpose of satisfying the diversification requirement to maintain the Fund’s pass-through tax treatment and $0.5 million represented a required 1% brokerage margin deposit. These securities are held by a securities brokerage firm and are pledged along with cash to secure the payment of the margin account balance. The U.S. Treasury bills were sold and the margin loan was repaid to the brokerage firm on October 2, 2008.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

On September 11, 2008, the Fund repurchased an aggregate of 423,960 shares of its common stock for $3.0 million, representing 4.9% of its outstanding shares, from unaffiliated third parties in a private transaction at the shares’ market price computed as the 5-day volume-weighted average closing price prior to the date of sale.

On February 19, 2008, the Fund revised its managed distribution policy to pay 10% of the Fund’s market value based on the 2007 year-end closing price of $6.31. In accordance with the revised policy, the Fund announced the declaration of a third quarter dividend of $0.158 per share on August 7, 2008. A dividend in the amount of $1.4 million was paid on September 29, 2008 to shareholders of record as of August 25, 2008. The dividend was payable in shares of common stock or in cash by specific election of the shareholders, and such election was made by September 22, 2008. The Fund paid $0.7 million in cash and issued 103,702 additional shares at an effective price of $6.62 per share. A dividend in the amount of $1.3 million was paid on June 30, 2008, to shareholders of record as of May 27, 2008. The dividend was payable in shares of common stock or in cash by specific election of the shareholders, and such election was made by June 23, 2008. The Fund paid $0.7 million in cash, and issued 84,727 additional shares of its common stock at an effective price of $7.04 per share. A dividend in the amount of $1.3 million was paid on March 31, 2008 to shareholders of record as of February 29, 2008. The dividend was payable in shares of common stock or in cash by specific election of the shareholders, and such election was made by March 24, 2008. The Fund paid $0.7 million in cash, and issued 95,023 additional shares of its common stock at an effective price of $6.71 per share. The classification of these dividends as between ordinary income, capital gain and return of capital will not be known until December 31, 2008, since any purchase or sale of a portfolio company during the remainder of the year will affect the classification. See Note (11) for the Fund’s fourth quarter dividend.

Under certain circumstances, the Fund may be called on to make follow-on investments in certain portfolio companies. If the Fund does not have sufficient funds to make follow-on investments, the portfolio company in need of the investment may be negatively impacted. Also, the Fund’s equity interest in the estimated fair value of the portfolio company could be reduced. In August 2008, the Fund entered into an agreement for a $7.5 million revolving line of credit facility with Amegy Bank National Association. The line of credit is intended to enable the Fund to make follow-on investments. The Fund has not yet borrowed under the facility.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Fund borrowed sufficient funds to maintain the Fund’s RIC status by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. There is no assurance that such arrangement will be available in the future. If the Fund is unable to borrow funds to make qualifying investments, it may no longer qualify as a RIC. The Fund would then be subject to corporate income tax on the Fund’s net investment income and realized capital gains, and distributions to stockholders would be subject to income tax as ordinary dividends. Failure to continue to qualify as a RIC could be material to us and the Fund’s stockholders.

As of September 30, 2008, the Fund borrowed $55.0 million to make qualifying investments to maintain its RIC status by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. The Fund collateralized such borrowings with restricted cash and temporary investments in U.S. Treasury bills of $55.5 million as of September 30, 2008. The U.S. Treasury bills were sold and the total amount borrowed was repaid on October 2, 2008.

As of December 31, 2007, the Fund borrowed $30.0 million to make qualifying investments to maintain its RIC status by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. The Fund collateralized such borrowings with restricted cash and temporary investments in U.S. Treasury bills of $30.3 million. The U.S. Treasury bills matured and the total amount borrowed was repaid on January 3, 2008.

(3) Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements:

Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Although management believes the estimates and assumptions used in preparing these interim financial statements and related notes are reasonable in light of known facts and circumstances, actual results could differ from those estimates.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

Valuation of Investments—Portfolio investments are carried at fair value with the net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation included in the determination of net assets. Valuations of portfolio securities are performed in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and the financial reporting policies of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The applicable methods prescribed by such principles and policies are described below:

Publicly-traded portfolio securities—Investments in companies whose securities are publicly traded are valued at their quoted market price at the close of business on the valuation date, less a discount to reflect the estimated effects of restrictions on the sale of such securities (“Valuation Discount”), if applicable.

Privately-held portfolio securities—The fair value of investments for which no market exists is determined on the basis of procedures established in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Fund. As a general principle, the current “fair value” of an investment would be the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive for it upon its current sale, in an orderly manner. Appraisal valuations are necessarily subjective and the Adviser’s estimate of values may differ materially from amounts actually received upon the disposition of portfolio securities.

Generally, cost is the primary factor used to determine fair value until significant developments affecting the portfolio company (such as results of operations or changes in general market conditions) provide a basis for use of an appraisal valuation. Thereafter, portfolio investments are carried at appraised values as determined quarterly by the Adviser, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. Appraisal valuations are based upon such factors as a portfolio company’s earnings, cash flow and net worth, the market prices for similar securities of comparable companies, an assessment of the company’s current and future financial prospects and various other factors and assumptions. In the case of unsuccessful operations, the appraisal may be based upon liquidation value.

Most of the Fund’s common equity investments are appraised at a multiple of free cash flow generated by the portfolio company in its most recent fiscal year, less outstanding funded indebtedness and other senior securities such as preferred stock. Projections of current year free cash flow may be utilized and adjustments for non-recurring items are considered. Multiples utilized are estimated based on the Adviser’s experience in the private company marketplace, and are necessarily subjective in nature.

From time to time, portfolio companies are in default of certain covenants in their loan agreements. When the Adviser has a reasonable belief that the portfolio company will be able to restructure the loan agreements to adjust for any defaults, the portfolio company’s securities continue to be valued assuming that the company is a going concern. In the event a portfolio company cannot generate adequate cash flow to meet the principal and payments on such indebtedness or is not successful in refinancing the debt upon its maturity, the Fund’s investment could be reduced or eliminated through foreclosure on the portfolio company’s assets or the portfolio company’s reorganization or bankruptcy.

The Fund may also use, when available, third-party transactions in a portfolio company’s securities as the basis of valuation (the “private market method”). The private market method will be used only with respect to completed transactions or firm offers made by sophisticated, independent investors.

The fair values of debt securities, which are generally held to maturity, are determined on the basis of the terms of the debt securities and the financial condition of the issuer. Certificates of deposit purchased by the Fund generally will be valued at their face value, plus interest accrued to the date of valuation.

Because of the inherent uncertainty of the valuation of portfolio securities, which do not have readily ascertainable market values, amounting to $84.0 million (including no publicly traded securities) and $72.1 million (including no publicly traded securities) as of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, the Fund’s estimate of fair value may materially differ from the value that would have been used had a ready market existed for the securities. Appraised values do not reflect brokers’ fees or other normal selling costs which might become payable on disposition of such investments.

On a daily basis, the Fund adjusts its net asset value for the changes in the value of its publicly held securities and material changes in the value of its private securities and reports those amounts to Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. Weekly and daily net asset values appear in various publications, including Barron’s and The Wall Street Journal.

Investment Transactions—Investment transactions are recorded on the accrual method. Realized gains and losses on investments sold are computed on a specific identification basis.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

Escrowed Receivables, at Estimated Fair Value— In May 2007, the Fund sold its interest in The Drilltec Corporation (“Drilltec”). A portion of the proceeds from the sale was placed in a cash escrow account to secure the representations and warranties made to the respective purchasers. The Fund received the final payment of $0.3 million from The Drilltec Corporation escrow account in May 2008.

Cash Flows—For purposes of the Statements of Cash Flows, the Fund considers all highly liquid temporary cash investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Fund includes its investing activities within cash flows from operations. The Fund excludes “Restricted Cash & Temporary Investments” used for purposes of complying with RIC requirements from cash equivalents.

Income Taxes—The Fund intends to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code necessary to qualify as a regulated investment company and, as such, will not be subject to federal income taxes on otherwise taxable income (including net realized capital gains) which is distributed to stockholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is recorded in the financial statements. The Fund borrows money from time to time to maintain its tax status under the Internal Revenue Code as a RIC. See Note 2 for further discussion of the Fund’s RIC borrowings.

In May 2006, the State of Texas enacted a bill that replaced the existing franchise tax with a margin tax. Effective January 1, 2007, the margin tax applies to legal entities conducting business in Texas, including previously non-taxable entities such as limited partnerships and limited liability partnerships. The margin tax is based on our Texas sourced taxable margin. The tax is calculated by applying a tax rate to a base that considers both revenue and expenses and therefore has the characteristics of an income tax.

(4) Fair Value Measurement

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“SFAS 157”). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, outlines a fair value hierarchy based on inputs used to measure fair value and enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. SFAS 157 does not change existing guidance as to whether an instrument is carried at fair value. The Fund adopted SFAS 157 for the quarter ending March 31, 2008. SFAS 157 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

The Fund has categorized all investments recorded at fair value in accordance with SFAS 157 based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their fair value. Hierarchical levels, defined by SFAS 157 and directly related to the amount of subjectivity associated with the inputs to fair valuation of these assets and liabilities, are as follows:

Level 1 — Inputs are unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical assets at the measurement date. The types of assets carried at Level 1 fair value generally are equities listed in active markets.

Level 2 — Inputs (other than quoted prices included in Level 1) are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset in connection with market data at the measurement date and for the extent of the instrument’s anticipated life. Fair valued assets that are generally included in this category are warrants held in a public company.

Level 3 — Inputs reflect management’s best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset at the measurement date. It includes prices or valuations that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. Generally, assets carried at fair value and included in this category are debt, warrants and/or other equity investments held in a private company. For loan and debt securities, the Fund has performed a yield analysis assuming a hypothetical current sale of the security. The yield analysis considers changes in interest rates and changes in leverage levels of the portfolio company as compared to the market interest rates and leverage levels. Assuming the credit quality of the portfolio company remains stable, the Fund will use the value determined by the yield analysis as the fair value for that security.

The Fund will record unrealized depreciation on investments when it determines that the fair value of a security is less than its cost basis, and will record unrealized appreciation when it determines that the fair value is greater than its cost basis.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

Investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis are categorized in the tables below based on the lowest level of significant input to the valuations:


			Fair Value Measurements As of September 30, 2008
*(in thousands)*	Total		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Investments, at fair value	$	84,041	$	—	$	—	$	84,041

A reconciliation of the fair value of investments utilizing significant unobservable inputs is as follows (in thousands):


*(in thousands)*	Fair value measurements using unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Fair value as of December 31, 2007	$	72,102
Total realized gains		977
Change in unrealized appreciation		(4,123	)
Purchases, issuances and settlements, net		15,085
Transfers in (out) of Level 3		—

Fair value as of September 30, 2008	$	84,041

(5) Related Party Transactions and Agreements

Moore, Clayton & Co., Inc., a Delaware corporation, formed Moore Clayton Capital Advisors, Inc. (“MCCA”) in February 2005 for the purpose of managing the Fund. Moore, Clayton & Co., Inc., either directly or indirectly has a significant ownership interest in the Fund and, additionally, has two common directors. MCCA has no direct ownership in the Fund and has two common directors. MCCA acquired the outstanding stock of the two entities which owned the previous adviser, Equus Capital Management Corporation. Those two entities were individually owned by a current director of the Fund and a previous officer of the Fund who resigned with the change to the current adviser, Moore Clayton Capital Advisors, Inc.

The Fund entered into an investment advisory agreement dated June 30, 2005 (the “Advisory Agreement”) with Moore Clayton Capital Advisors, Inc. (the “Adviser”). This agreement was renewed in June 2008. Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser performs certain investment advisory services that are necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Adviser receives a base advisory fee at an annual rate of 2% of the net assets of the Fund, paid quarterly in arrears, as well as incentive fees in the following amounts: (i) 20% of the excess, if any, of the Fund’s net investment income for a quarter that exceeds a quarterly hurdle rate equal to 2% (8% annualized) of the Fund’s net assets, and (ii) 20% of the Fund’s net realized capital gain less unrealized capital depreciation paid on an annual basis. The advisory fees that the Fund pays represent the Adviser’s primary source of revenue. The Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MCC Global, NV, an international private equity investment and advisory firm.

The Advisory Agreement presently continues year-to-year, provided such continuance is approved at least annually by (i) a vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, or (ii) a majority of the Independent Directors of the Fund. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the Board of Directors or the holders of a majority of the Fund’s shares on 60 days written notice to the Adviser, and would automatically terminate in the event of its “assignment” (as defined in the 1940 Act).

The Fund also entered into an administration agreement dated June 30, 2005 (“Administration Agreement”) with Equus Capital Administration Company, Inc. (the “Administrator”). This agreement was renewed in June 2008. Pursuant to the Administration Agreement, the Administrator provides (or arranges for suitable third parties to provide) all administrative services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Fund reimburses the Administrator for the costs and expenses incurred by the Administrator in performing its obligations and providing personnel and facilities under the Administrative Agreement, provided that such reimbursements do not exceed $0.5 million per year.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

The Administration Agreement presently continues year-to-year, provided such continuance is approved at least annually by the Fund’s Board of Directors, including a majority of the Independent Directors. The Administration Agreement may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the Board of Directors, or by the Administrator, upon 60 days written notice to the other party, and would automatically terminate in the event of its “assignment” (as defined in the 1940 Act).

(6) Contractual Obligations

The Fund has entered into five contracts under which it expects to have material future commitments, including the Advisory Agreement between the Fund and the Adviser, pursuant to which the Adviser has agreed to serve as the Fund’s investment advisor; the Administration Agreement between the Fund and the Administrator, pursuant to which the Administrator has agreed to furnish the Fund with the facilities and administrative services necessary to conduct the Fund’s day-to-day operations and to provide managerial assistance on its behalf to portfolio companies to which the Fund is required to provide such assistance. The Advisory Agreement and the Administration Agreement may be terminated by either party without penalty upon not more than 60 days’ written notice to the other, see Note 5.

The remaining two commitments as of September 30, 2008 relate to the Fund’s portfolio company investments and are summarized as follows (in thousands):


Portfolio Company	Original Commitment		Remaining Commitment
RP&C International Investments LLC	$	11,100	$	5,000
HealthSPAC, LLC		5,000		3,227

			$	8,227

As compensation for services to the Fund, each Independent Director receives an annual fee of $20,000 paid quarterly in arrears, a fee of $2,000 for each meeting of the Board of Directors attended in person, a fee of $1,000 for participation in each telephonic meeting of the Board and a fee of $1,000 for each committee meeting attended, and reimbursement of all out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at such meetings. A quarterly fee of $2,500 is paid for the Chairman of the Independent Directors and the Chairman of the Audit Committee. An additional one-time fee of $5,000 was paid to the Chairman of the Independent Directors and the Chairman of the Audit Committee in September 2007, as approved by the Compensation Committee. Effective December 18, 2007, an annual fee of $15,000 for the Chairman of the Board of Directors was approved.

(7) Federal Income Tax Matters

The Fund is required to make distributions of any net taxable investment income on an annual basis, and may elect to distribute or retain net taxable realized capital gains. The Internal Revenue Service approved the Fund’s request, effective October 31, 1998, to change its year end for determining capital gains for purposes of Section 4982 of the Internal Revenue Code from December 31 to October 31.

The Fund was not required to make a distribution of ordinary income for 2007 under income tax regulations. The aggregate cost of investments for federal income tax purposes as of December 31, 2007 was $52.7 million. Such investments had unrealized appreciation of approximately $23.3 million and unrealized depreciation of $6.5 million for book purposes, or net unrealized appreciation of approximately $16.8 million. The Fund had unrealized appreciation of $26.4 million and unrealized depreciation of approximately $7.0 million for tax purposes, or net unrealized appreciation of $19.4 million as of December 31, 2007.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

The Fund adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48 entitled “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,” referred to as “FIN 48,” as of January 1, 2007. FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertain tax positions that may have been taken by an entity. Specifically, FIN 48 prescribes a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold to measure a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return through a two-step process: (1) determining whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities, after all appeals, based upon the technical merits of the position; and (2) measuring to determine the amount of benefit/expense to recognize in the financial statements, assuming taxing authorities have all relevant information concerning the issue. The tax position is measured at the largest amount of benefit/expense that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. This pronouncement also specifies how to present a liability for unrecognized tax benefits in a classified balance sheet, but does not change the classification requirements for deferred taxes. Under FIN 48, if a tax position previously failed the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, it should be recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which the threshold is met. Similarly, a position that no longer meets this recognition threshold should no longer be recognized in the first financial reporting period that the threshold is no longer met.

The Fund is a flow-through, non-tax paying entity; further, the Fund’s net operating loss carry-forwards have been exhausted. Based upon an examination of the Fund’s tax position, the Fund determined that the aggregate exposure under FIN 48 did not have a material impact on its financial statements at January 1, 2008 or September 30, 2008. Therefore, the Fund has not recorded an adjustment to its financial statements related to the adoption of FIN 48. The Fund will continue to evaluate its tax positions in accordance with FIN 48, and recognize any future impact under FIN 48 as a charge to income in the applicable period in accordance with the standard.

The Fund’s accounting policy related to income tax penalties and interest assessments is to accrue for these costs and record a charge to expenses during the period that the Fund takes an uncertain tax position through resolution with the taxing authorities or expiration of the applicable statute of limitations.

(8) Dividends

(9) Portfolio Securities

During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Fund invested $8.0 million in new portfolio companies and made follow-on investments of $11.2 million in several follow-on investments, including $0.4 million in the form of interest and dividends paid-in-kind or original issue discount/premium amortization.

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

The following table includes significant new and follow-on investments during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 (in thousands):


	New				Follow-On
Portfolio Company	Cash		Noncash		Cash		Noncash		Total
Infinia Corporation	$	—	$	—	$	5,000	$	—	$	5,000
Riptide Entertainment, LLC		—		—		4,600		—		4,600
1848 Capital Partners LLC		3,000		—		—		—		3,000
London Bridge Entertainment LLC		2,500		—		—		—		2,500
Trulite, Inc.		1,500		—		—		—		1,500
Nickent Golf, Inc.		—		—		1,000		184		1,184
Metic Solutions, PLC		1,000		—		—		—		1,000
HealthSpac, LLC		—		—		208		—		208
Various others		—		—		—		174		174

	$	8,000	$	—	$	10,808	$	358	$	19,166

During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Fund realized net capital gains of $1.0 million, including the following significant transactions (in thousands):


Portfolio Company	Industry	Type	Realized Gain
ConGlobal Industries Holding, Inc.	Shipping products and services	Control, non-majority	$	625
RP&C International Investments LLC	Healthcare	Affiliate		351
Various others				1

			$	977

Net unrealized appreciation on investments did not change significantly during the nine months ended September 30, 2008.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, the Fund invested $16.1 million in four new companies and made follow-on investments of $8.8 million in follow-on investments, including $0.3 million in the form of interest and dividends paid in kind or original issue discount/premium amortization.

The following table includes significant new and follow-on investments during the nine months ended September 30, 2007 (in thousands):


	New				Follow-On
Portfolio Company	Cash		Noncash		Cash		Noncash		Total
Nickent Golf, Inc	$	8,000	$	—	$	2,000	$	—	$	10,000
Equus Media Development Company, LLC		5,000		—		—		—		5,000
Riptide Entertainment, LLC		—		—		3,835		—		3,835
Infinia Corporation		3,000		—		—		—		3,000
RP&C International Investments LLC		—		—		2,009		—		2,009
HealthSpac, LLC		—		—		525		—		525
ConGlobal Industries Holdings, Inc.		—		—		—		273		273
Equus Media Finance Company, LLC		100		—		—		—		100
Various others		—		—		—		208		208

	$	16,100	$	—	$	8,369	$	481	$	24,950

Index to Financial Statements

EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND 2007

During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, the Fund realized net capital gains of $5.3 million, including the following significant transactions (in thousands):


Portfolio Company	Industry	Type	Realized Gain/ (Loss)
The Drilltec Corporation	Residential building products	Control		3,829
Champion Windows	Residential building products	Control		1,403
Cedar Lodge Holdings, Inc.	Real Estate	Control		608
Alenco Window Holdings, LLC	Residential building products	Control		165
Equicom	Telecommunications	Control		136
ConGlobal Industries Holding, Inc.	Shipping products and services	Control, non-majority		58
Turf Grass Holdings, Inc.	Residential building products	Control		(960	)
Various others				19

			$	5,258

Net unrealized appreciation on investments decreased by $8.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2007, from a net unrealized appreciation of $9.3 million to a net unrealized appreciation of $1.3 million. Such decrease in appreciation resulted from a transfer of $3.6 million in net unrealized appreciation to net realized appreciation for sale of The Drilltec Corporation. The decrease in appreciation was also a result of the decline in estimated fair market values of ConGlobal Industries Holding, Inc. and Pallet One, resulting from a decline in operations for the period.

(10) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Fair Value Measurements—On February 12, 2008, FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2—Effective Date of FASB No. 157, or FSP 157-2 was issued, which deferred the effective date of SFAS 157 for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, with early adoption permitted in certain cases. We deferred the adoption of SFAS 157 for our nonfinancial assets and liabilities. We are assessing the potential impact that adoption of SFAS 157 for our nonfinancial assets and liabilities may have on our financial statements.

On October 10, 2008, FASB Staff Position No. 157-3—Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset is Not Active, or FSP 157-3, was issued. FSP 157-3 provides an illustrative example of how to determine the fair value of a financial asset in an inactive market. The FSP does not change the fair value measurement principles set forth in SFAS 157. Since adopting SFAS 157 in January 2008, our practices for determining the fair value of our investment portfolio have been, and continue to be, consistent with the guidance provided in the example in FSP 157-3. Therefore, our adoption of FSP 157-3 did not affect our practices for determining the fair value of our investment portfolio and does not have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159—The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, or SFAS 159. Among other requirements, SFAS 159 permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. SFAS 159 was effective for the first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2008. Based upon our review, we have elected not to adopt SFAS 159 for financial liabilities that were in our portfolio as of September 30, 2008. However, we may elect to apply SFAS 159 to future financial liabilities. The impact on our financials from the potential application of SFAS 159 to a future liability depends upon the attributes of the specific financial liability.

(11) Subsequent Events

On November 10, 2008, the Fund announced a dividend of $0.158 per share for the fourth quarter of 2008. The dividend will be payable on December 22, 2008 in shares of common stock.

Index to Financial Statements

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Overview

Equus Total Return, Inc. is a business development company which invests in equity and equity-oriented securities issued by privately-owned companies in transactions negotiated directly with such companies. The Fund made four new investments other than follow-on investments during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.

The valuation of the Fund’s investments is the most significant area of judgment impacting the financial statements. The Fund’s portfolio investments are valued at estimates of fair value, with the net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation included in the determination of net assets. Almost all of the long-term investments are in privately-held or restricted securities, the valuation of which is necessarily subjective. Actual values may differ materially from the Fund’s estimated fair value. Portfolio valuations are determined quarterly by the Adviser, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, and are based on a number of relevant factors.

Most of the Fund’s portfolio companies utilize leverage, and the leverage magnifies the return on its investments. For example, if a portfolio company has a total enterprise value of $10.0 million and $7.5 million in funded indebtedness, its equity is valued at $2.5 million. If the enterprise value increases or decreases by 20%, to $12.0 million or $8.0 million, respectively, the value of the equity increases or decreases by 80%, to $4.5 million or $0.5 million, respectively. This disproportionate increase or decrease adds a level of volatility to the Fund’s equity-oriented portfolio securities.

The Fund derives its cash flow from interest and dividends received and sales of securities from its investment portfolio. The Fund pays certain advisory fees to the Adviser, administrative fees to the Administrator and interest expense on its existing debt. The Fund also spends its cash on new investments, or follow-on investments which may be required by certain portfolio companies. Because the investments are illiquid, the Fund utilizes leverage to provide the required funds, and the leverage is then repaid from the sale of portfolio securities.

Since the Fund is a closed-end business development company, stockholders have no right to present their shares to the Fund for redemption. Because the shares continue to trade at a discount, the Board of Directors has determined that it would be in the best interest of the Fund’s stockholders for the Fund to be authorized to attempt to reduce or eliminate the market value discount from net asset value. Accordingly, from time to time the Fund may, but is not required to, repurchase its shares (including by means of tender offers) to attempt to reduce or eliminate the discount or to increase the net asset value of those shares.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements:

Index to Financial Statements

Because of the inherent uncertainty of the valuation of portfolio securities, which do not have readily ascertainable market values, amounting to $86.2 million (including no publicly traded securities) and $72.1 million (including no publicly traded securities) as of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, the Fund’s estimate of fair value may materially differ from the value that would have been used had a ready market existed for the securities. Appraised values do not reflect brokers’ fees or other normal selling costs which might become payable on disposition of such investments.

Federal Income Taxes—The Fund intends to comply with the requirements of the Code necessary for us to qualify as a RIC. So long as it complies with these requirements, the Fund generally will not be subject to corporate-level federal income taxes on otherwise taxable income (including net realized capital gains) distributed to stockholders. Therefore, the Fund did not record a provision for federal income taxes in its financial statements.

Because of the nature and size of the portfolio investments, the Fund may periodically borrow funds to make qualifying investments to maintain its tax status as a RIC. During the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Fund borrowed such funds by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. There is no assurance that such arrangement will be available in the future. If the Fund is unable to borrow funds to make qualifying investments, it may no longer qualify as a RIC. The Fund would then be subject to corporate income tax on its net investment income and realized capital gains, and distributions to stockholders would be subject to income tax as ordinary dividends.

Net taxable investment income and net taxable realized gains from the sales of portfolio investments are intended to be distributed at least annually, to the extent such amounts are not reserved for payment of expenses and contingencies or to make follow-on or new investments. The Fund reserves the right to retain net long-term capital gains in excess of net short-term capital losses for reinvestment or to pay contingencies and expenses. Such retained amounts, if any, will be taxable to the Fund as long-term capital gains and stockholders will be able to claim their proportionate share of the federal income taxes paid on such gains as a credit against their own federal income tax liabilities. Stockholders will also be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis of their Fund shares by the difference between their undistributed capital gains and their tax credit.

Current Market Conditions

During the quarter ended September 30, 2008, the state of the economy in the U.S. and abroad continued to deteriorate to what many believe is a recession, which could be long-term. Banks and others in the financial services industry have continued to report significant write-downs in fair value of their assets. The failure of a number of banks and investment companies, distressed mergers and acquisitions, and the government take-over of the nation’s two largest government-sponsored mortgage companies lead to the passage of the $700 billion Emergency Economic Stabilization of 2008 in early October 2008. In addition, the stock market has declined significantly, with both the S&P 500 and the NYSE (on which EQS trades), declining over 30%. These events have significantly constrained the availability of debt and equity capital for the market as a whole, and the financial services sector in particular.

These and other events have also lead to rising unemployment, deteriorating consumer confidence and a general reduction in spending by both consumers and business, adversely affecting a number of industries including those in which the Fund’s portfolio companies operate. Further, consistent with other companies in the financial services sector, the Fund has been affected adversely by many of these events. Between June 30, 2008 and November 13, 2008, the closing price of the Fund’s common stock has declined approximately 30% and is trading at a 55% discount.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As previously noted, the Fund may periodically borrow funds to make qualifying investments to maintain its tax status as a RIC. During the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Fund borrowed such funds by utilizing a margin account with a securities brokerage firm. There is no assurance that such arrangement will be available in the future.

Investors should not place undue reliance on the Fund’s forward-looking statements regarding income and liabilities, which are current only as to the date hereof. The Fund undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Index to Financial Statements

Results of Operations

Investment Income and Expense

Net investment loss after all expenses was $0.7 and $1.0 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 respectively and $0.6 and $0.3 for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Total income from portfolio securities was $2.0 million and $2.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 respectively and $0.3 million and $0.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 respectively. The net investment loss generated at September 30, 2008 compared to 2007, is due primarily to the decline in total income from portfolio securities for the nine months ended September 30, 2008, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2007, along with the offering costs incurred at September 30, 2007 and declining incentive fees.

Interest from temporary cash investments decreased to $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from $1.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, and to $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2008 from $0.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2007. The cash in temporary investments (excluding the margin account) decreased $21.9 million to $9.0 million as of September 30, 2008, and a corresponding decrease of $17.2 million for the nine months ended September, 2007, primarily due to the increase in new and follow-on investments.

The Adviser receives management fee compensation at an annual rate of 2% of the net assets of the Fund paid quarterly in arrears. Such fees increased by $0.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and $0.2 million for the three months ended September 2008.

Incentive fees are calculated as follows: (i) 20% of the excess, if any, of the Fund’s net investment income for a quarter that exceeds a quarterly hurdle rate equal to 2% (8% annualized) of the Fund’s net assets, and (ii) 20% of the Fund’s net realized capital gain less unrealized capital depreciation paid on an annual basis. The proceeds of any sale are compared to the fair market valuation of the Fund’s portfolio companies at March 31, 2005. Incentive fee expense decreased by $1.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2007, and remained relatively unchanged the three months ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2007.

Professional fees remained relatively constant for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, as compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007.

Administrative fees were unchanged for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The Fund reimburses the Administrator, ECAC, for the costs and expenses incurred in performing its obligations and providing personnel and facilities under the Administrative Agreement, provided that such reimbursements do not exceed $450,000 per year. The administrator receives $112,500 per quarter.

Realized Gains and Losses on Sales of Portfolio Securities

During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Fund realized net capital gains of $1.0 million, including the following significant transactions (in thousands):


Portfolio Company	Industry	Type	Realized Gain
ConGlobal Industries Holding, Inc.	Shipping products and services	Control, non-majority	$	625
RP&C International Investments LLC	Healthcare	Affiliate		351
Various others				1

			$	977

During the three months ended September 30, 2008, the Fund had no realized net capital gains.

Index to Financial Statements

During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, the Fund realized net capital gains of $5.3 million, including the following significant transactions (in thousands):


Portfolio Company	Industry	Type	Realized Gain/ (Loss)
The Drilltec Corporation	Residential building products	Control	$	3,829
Champion Window Holdings, Inc.	Residential building products	Control		1,403
Cedar Lodge Holdings, Inc.	Real Estate	Control		608
Alenco Window Holdings, LLC	Residential building products	Control		165
Equicom, Inc.	Telecommunications	Control		136
ConGlobal Industries Holding, Inc.	Shipping products and services	Control, non-majority		58
Turf Grass Holdings, Inc.	Residential building products	Control		(960	)
Various others				19

			$	5,258

During the three months ended September 30, 2007, the Fund realized net capital gains of $0.1 million, including the following significant transactions (in thousands):


Portfolio Company	Industry	Type	Realized Gain/ (Loss)
Equicom, Inc.	Telecommunications	Control		136
The Drilltec Corporation	Real Estate	Control		82
Cedar Lodge Holdings, Inc.	Residential building products	Control	$	(120	)
Various others				8

			$	106

Changes in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation of Portfolio Securities

Net unrealized appreciation on investments decreased by $4.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2008, from a net unrealized appreciation of $16.8 million to a net unrealized appreciation of $12.7 million. The decrease in appreciation was primarily a result of the decline in estimated fair market value of Creekstone Florida Holdings, LLC, resulting from a decline in the real estate market.

Dividends

On February 19, 2008, the Fund revised its managed distribution policy to pay 10% of the Fund’s market value based on the 2007 year-end closing price of $6.31. In accordance with this revised policy, the Fund announced the declaration of a third quarter dividend of $0.158 per share on August 7, 2008. A dividend in the amount of $1.4 million was paid on September 29, 2008 to shareholders of record as of August 25, 2008. The dividend was payable in shares of common stock or in cash by specific election of the shareholders, and such election was made by September 22, 2008. The Fund paid $0.7 million in cash and issued 103,702 additional shares at an effective price of $6.62 per share. A dividend in the amount of $1.3 million was paid on June 30, 2008, to shareholders of record as of May 27, 2008. The dividend was payable in shares of common stock or in cash by specific election of the shareholders, and such election was made by June 23, 2008. The Fund paid $0.7 million in cash, and issued 84,727 additional shares of its common stock at an effective price of $7.04 per share. A dividend in the amount of $1.3 million was paid on March 31, 2008 to shareholders of record as of February 29, 2008. The dividend was payable in shares of common stock or in cash by specific election of the shareholders, and such election was made by March 24, 2008. The Fund paid $0.7 million in cash, and issued 95,023 additional shares of its common stock at an effective price of $6.71 per share. The classification of these dividends as between ordinary income, capital gain and return of capital will not be known until December 31, 2008, since any purchase or sale of a portfolio company during the remainder of the year will affect the classification.

Index to Financial Statements

The Fund announced the declaration of a $0.125 dividend payable on September 24, 2007, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 21, 2007. The Fund paid $502,172 in cash and issued 73,069 additional shares of common stock at $7.85 per share on September 24, 2007, in payment of such dividend. The Fund paid a $0.125 dividend for shareholders of record as of May 21, 2007. The Fund paid $0.6 million in cash and issued 48,930 additional shares of common stock at $8.81 per share on June 25, 2007, in payment of such dividend. The Fund paid a $0.125 dividend for shareholders of record as of the close of business on February 26, 2007 on March 30, 2007. The Fund paid $0.6 million in cash and issued 52,650 additional shares of common stock at $8.63 per share, in payment of such dividend.

Portfolio Investments

The following table includes significant new and follow-on investments during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 (in thousands):


	New				Follow-On
Portfolio Company	Cash		Noncash		Cash		Noncash		Total
Infinia Corporation	$	—	$	—	$	5,000	$	—	$	5,000
Riptide Entertainment, LLC		—		—		4,600		—		4,600
1848 Capital Partners LLC		3,000		—		—		—		3,000
London Bridge Entertainment LLC		2,500		—		—		—		2,500
Trulite, Inc.		1,500		—		—		—		1,500
Nickent Golf, Inc.		—		—		1,000		184		1,184
Metic Solutions, PLC		1,000		—		—		—		1,000
HealthSpac, LLC		—		—		208		—		208
Various others		—		—		—		174		174

	$	8,000	$	—	$	10,808	$	358	$	19,166

The following table includes significant new and follow-on investments during the nine months ended September 30, 2007 (in thousands):


	New				Follow-On
Portfolio Company	Cash		Noncash		Cash		Noncash		Total
Nickent Golf, Inc	$	8,000	$	—	$	2,000	$	—	$	10,000
Equus Media Development Company, LLC		5,000		—		—		—		5,000
Riptide Entertainment, LLC		—		—		3,835		—		3,835
Infinia Corporation		3,000		—		—		—		3,000
RP&C International Investments LLC		—		—		2,009		—		2,009
HealthSpac, LLC		—		—		525		—		525
ConGlobal Industries Holdings, Inc.		—		—		—		273		273
Equus Media Finance Company, LLC		100		—		—		—		100
Various others		—		—		—		208		208

	$	16,100	$	—	$	8,369	$	481	$	24,950

Subsequent Events

On November 10, 2008, the Fund announced a dividend of $0.158 per share for the fourth quarter of 2008. The dividend will be payable on December 22, 2008 in shares of common stock.

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

The Fund is subject to financial market risks, including changes in interest rates with respect to investments in debt securities and outstanding debt payable, as well as changes in marketable equity security prices. The Fund does not use derivative financial instruments to mitigate any of these risks. The return on investments is generally not affected by foreign currency fluctuations.

The Fund’s investments in portfolio securities consist of some fixed rate debt securities. Since the debt securities are generally priced at a fixed rate, changes in interest rates do not directly impact interest income. In addition, changes in market interest rates are not typically a significant factor in the determination of fair value of these debt securities, since the securities are generally held to maturity. Their fair values are determined on the basis of the terms of the debt security and the financial condition of the issuer.

Index to Financial Statements

A major portion of the Fund’s investment portfolio consists of debt and equity investments in private companies. Modest changes in public market equity prices generally do not significantly impact the estimated fair value of these investments. However, significant changes in market equity prices can have a longer-term effect on valuations of private companies, which could affect the carrying value and the amount and timing of gains or losses realized on these investments. A small portion of the investment portfolio also consists of common stocks in publicly traded companies. These investments are directly exposed to equity price risk, in that a hypothetical ten percent change in these equity prices would result in a similar percentage change in the fair value of these securities.

The Fund is classified as a “non-diversified” investment company under the Investment Company Act, which means the Fund is not limited in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the securities of a single user. The value of one segment called Alternative Energy includes one portfolio company and was 27.5% of the net asset value and 30.9% of the Fund’s investments in portfolio company securities (at fair value) as of September 30, 2008. Changes in business or industry trends or in the financial condition, results of operations, or the market’s assessment of any single portfolio company will affect the net asset value and the market price of the Fund’s common stock to a greater extent than would be the case if the Fund were a “diversified” company holding numerous investments.

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

The Fund maintains disclosure controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Fund in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Fund’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

The Fund’s management, with the participation of the Fund’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operations of the Fund’s “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of September 30, 2008. Based on their evaluation, the Fund’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Fund’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level. There has been no change in the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2008, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting.

Part II. Other Information

Item 6.

Exhibits

3.	Articles of Incorporation and by-laws

(a)

Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Fund, as amended. [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007]

(b)

Certificate of Merger dated June 30, 1993, between the Fund and Equus Investments Incorporated [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(c) to Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007]

(c)

Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Fund. [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(c) to Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007]

10.	Material Contracts

(a)

Investment Advisory Agreement dated June 30, 2005, between the Fund and Moore, Clayton Capital Advisors, Inc. [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2005]

(b)

Administration Agreement dated June 30, 2005, between the Fund and Equus Capital Administration Company. [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(b) to Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2005]

(c)

Safekeeping Agreement between the Fund and The Frost National Bank dated March 15, 2004. [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(f) to Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004]

Index to Financial Statements

(d)

Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Fund and its directors and certain officers. [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(g) to Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004]

(e)

Form of Release Agreement between the Fund and certain of its officers and former officers. [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(h) to Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004]

(f)

Joint Code of Ethics of the Fund and Moore Clayton Capital Advisors, Inc. (Rule 17j-1) [Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(c) to Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007]

(g)

Revolving Credit Note between the Fund and Amegy Bank National Association dated August 13, 2008 [filed herewith]

(h)

Pledge and Security Agreement between the Fund and Amegy Bank National Association dated August 13, 2008 [filed herewith]

31.	Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications

Certification by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Certification by Chief Financial Officer

32.	Section 1350 Certifications

Certification by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Certification by Chief Financial Officer

Index to Financial Statements

SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has caused this report to be signed by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


		EQUUS TOTAL RETURN, INC.

Date: November 14, 2008		/s/ Kenneth I. Denos
		Kenneth I. Denos
		Chief Executive Officer